Optimizing the Planning of Hosting Mega Sports Events: A Case Study for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

Abstract

Qatar will be hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup (FWC22) becoming the first nation in the Middle East to ever host such an event. However, being the first country to host such a sporting event and the fact that the event will be hosted in one city (Doha) as opposed to multiple cities brings unique challenges that may hinder its success. In addition to the size limitation, for the first time, the total number of expected fans for the World Cup is about 1.5 million which represents 70 % of the population of the hosting city. This study will carry out an in-depth qualitative and quantitative study aimed at understanding the unique challenges Qatar may face while hosting a sporting event of such magnitude. This research aims to create a framework starting by predicting the qualified teams and the associated fans all the way to optimizing the planning by developing an integrated model and ending by analyzing the associated risk of this unique tournament. This framework can be used to enhance the success of a major international event by optimizing transportation, accommodation, security, and fan experience in Qatar and other countries around the world that have similar constraints.