What Kenyans Attending FIFA World Cup in Qatar Cannot Do

The Embassy of Kenya in Qatar has released key details that fans intending to travel to watch the 2022 FIFA World Cup should take note of.

Football's biggest tournament kicks off on Sunday, November 20, with hosts Qatar set to take on Ecuador at 7 p.m. Kenyan time. 

Millions of fans from across the globe are expected to flock to the Gulf country to catch the special experience of the tournament that happens once every five years.

"As the State of Qatar enters the final stretch before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the Embassy would like to reaffirm its commitment and availability in providing the necessary support and would like to highlight and bring to the attention of the Kenyan Community who will be attending this event, the following," a statement by the embassy sent to newsrooms on Saturday, November 19 read in part.

Stadiums in Qatar to be used for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. /FILE

Kenyan fans have been advised to apply for Hayya Cards before entering the country during the FIFA World Cup period. It is a personalized document issued and reportedly required by everyone attending the FIFA World Cup matches.

The card grants them access to the country, purchasing of tickets, booking of accommodation as well as free public transport access in Qatar, including the metro and bus, among others. Fans should keep this card at all times.

"The Embassy is adequately prepared to receive all Kenyans and also High-Level delegations, to handle resultant Consular matters and other multi-pronged situations as they may arise, in Liaison with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) and relevant MDAs of both countries," added the statement.

The Embassy further encouraged Kenyans to participate in the exciting events taking place during the World Cup.

It also informed all interested Kenyans to apply for tickets through the official FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 portal. Access here

"The Embassy urges all citizens to desist from any political involvement or interference using insignia, flags, symbols, emblems or any misrepresentation of the Republic of Kenya during this period. All Kenyans are advised to respect the culture and adhere to the laws and regulations of the land," it added.

Nasser Al Khater who is the chief executive of the 2022 World Cup, had previously assured that LGBTQ+ fans who will be present for the World Cup need not worry as he said that Qatar was a tolerant nation.

He added that it would be up to FIFA to decide on football team captains wearing special armbands in support of the community, but warned against teams spreading political messages.

However, Kenyans will be stunned to learn that the sale of alcohol around all the World Cup stadiums is banned.

"Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing the sales points of beer from Qatar's FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters."

"There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar's World Cup stadiums," FIFA noted in a statement on Friday, November 18.

However, host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans.

A Budweiser concession stand for the sale of alcohol during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. /REUTERS.DAILY MAIL