Know the key rules introduced by Qatar government for FIFA World Cup 2022

The hosts have imposed strict conditions on fans travelling to the country to attend the tournament this month

The row began after Qatar was awarded the hosting rights for the 2022 World Cup. From violations of human rights to workplace fatalities, while constructing stadiums for the World Cup, Qatar has been under scrutiny ever since. Although they have dismissed these allegations, a report showed that a total of 6,500 migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka have died in Qatar since FIFA awarded the tournament to Qatar in 2010.

Human rights advocates, trade unions, and the media have repeatedly documented Qatar's atrocities, and many football players and other public figures have boycotted the 2022 World Cup.

Despite these problems, Qatar was given hosting rights. It was also discovered that bribes occurred between the Qatar bid committee and FIFA members and officials. Since then, some FIFA members, notably Theo Zwanziger and ex-president Sepp Blatter in 2010, have expressed remorse about their decision to award Qatar the hosting rights to the world's largest sporting event.

But now that Qatar has been named the host country for the FIFA World Cup 2022, here's what fans should know and do when they visit this winter. The rules of Qatar are mentioned below.

Rules issued by Qatar Government. 

LGBTQIA controversy

The media and sports experts have condemned Qatar's mistreatment of homosexuals. There have been accusations that Qatar LGBTQIA persons have been subjected to ill-treatment in jail and even imprisoned for seven years, Gay Times reported, and there has been a death penalty for LGBTQIA people.

Qatar even instituted "medical screening tests" to "identify" gays and ban them from entering the nation. However, in response to rising media and player pressure, Qatar has reversed their bans and said they would follow FIFA guidelines to promote tolerance of rainbow flags in stadiums. On September 21, Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham stated that LGBTQIA individuals will not be prohibited.

Alcohol law

Hassan Abdulla al Thawadi, chief executive of Qatar's 2022 World Cup bid, said that alcohol use in public areas is prohibited because Qatar's legal system is Sharia-based. However, alcohol zones will be constructed where supporters can consume alcohol. Fans may also bring alcohol and beverages into the stadium, but they will not be sold inside stadiums. 

Clothing rules

Although football supporters may wear whatever they like, they will not be allowed to remove their garments inside the stadium. Fans will be required to cover their knees and shoulders when entering public areas, museums, or government buildings.

Public displays of affection and photography

Public demonstrations of affection are prohibited in all areas of Qatar, and visiting fans have been asked to follow the rules during the event.

While fans should get permission before photographing or filming anything. They should also be aware that photographing any government-related items is not permitted.