Post-2022 FIFA world cup in the state of Qatar: Urban regeneration strategies for Doha

Abstract

The 2022 FIFA World Cup is a vital event which will take place in Doha - capital city of the State of Qatar - and shape its present and future urban growth. The capital city is rapidly preparing for the success of this mega-event within a very short time frame. Therefore, there is a profound challenge in planning for the World Cup while also taking into account the urban planning needs of the city. This research study investigates the post-event planning strategies and projected repurposing plans for Doha, to assess the compatibility between planning for the World Cup and planning for the city. The strategy consists of: 1) a review of the literature - a case study of London, a previous mega-event host city, with focus on the post-event urban growth strategies; and 2) an evaluation of the post-event urban regeneration strategies set for Doha. The first part of the process identifies the best practices and strategies, which are then used as the basis for the assessment and comparison with Doha. Data about Doha is collected through structured interviews with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the responsible authority for planning and managing the 2022 FIFA World Cup. These interviews reveal that post-event urban regeneration strategies are still under discussion, and only general guidelines are established. Therefore, this research study suggests and highlights relevant post-2022 FIFA World Cup urban regeneration strategies that can be implemented for Doha.