Doha and Lusail Ready: Metro and Tram Network Prepares to Host Arab Cup & Intercontinental Cup Fans

As Qatar gears up to host the Arab Cup 2025 and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, the country’s transportation infrastructure is preparing to offer a smooth and seamless experience for thousands of international visitors. The metro and tram systems in Doha and Lusail have been meticulously planned to cater to the increased number of football fans flocking to the region. With easy access to the stadiums, extended service hours, and enhanced facilities, Qatar’s rail systems are set to provide a top-tier travel experience for tourists during these major sporting events.

Qatar Rail, the entity responsible for the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram, has announced that it is fully prepared to handle the influx of visitors. The rail network will be vital in ensuring smooth transportation for fans during the tournaments, which will run from December 1 to 18, 2025. Not only will the metro and tram systems provide easy access to the stadiums, but they will also enhance the overall visitor experience by offering extended hours, efficient crowd management, and support facilities at key stations.

Easy Access to Key Stadiums and Venues

One of the main highlights of Qatar’s transportation strategy is the ease of access to the stadiums hosting the Arab Cup matches. Five out of the six stadiums are located within walking distance of metro stations, ensuring fans can travel effortlessly from the stations to the venues. Stadiums such as Lusail, Ahmad bin Ali, and Khalifa International are easily accessible via specific metro stations like Lusail QNB, Al Riffa, and Sport City.

The Lusail Tram network also connects key areas of Lusail City, including commercial and entertainment zones. Fans visiting the Lusail Stadium will have access to the metro and tram stations, while shuttle bus services will be available for those attending matches at Al Bayt Stadium. This seamless connectivity between metro, tram, and stadiums not only facilitates quick and convenient travel but also highlights Qatar’s commitment to ensuring a world-class experience for visitors.

Extended Metro and Tram Services

During the tournaments, the metro and tram systems will operate extended hours to accommodate late-night travel after matches. With the high volume of fans expected, additional services will be put in place, including 6-car trains on the Red Line to increase capacity. This ensures that visitors can enjoy a stress-free journey without long waiting times. With extended operating hours, fans attending evening matches can easily return to their accommodation, while those arriving at the stations will find clear signage and helpful staff to guide them.

The Doha Metro, which has been operational since 2019, and the Lusail Tram, launched in 2022, are both key components of Qatar’s public transport network. With over 200 million passengers served by the metro system alone, these rail networks are proven to offer reliability and comfort for both residents and tourists. The Qatar Rail system, part of the country’s broader vision under Qatar National Vision 2030, emphasizes sustainability and efficiency in urban mobility.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience

To cater to the diverse needs of international visitors, Qatar Rail is deploying multilingual staff across stations and trains to assist passengers. The stations will also feature customer service desks for easy ticketing and information, making it convenient for tourists who may be unfamiliar with the area. The addition of wayfinding signage at key stations, including those near stadiums, will further enhance the navigation experience.

For those arriving by car, Park-and-Ride facilities will be available at several stations, allowing visitors to park their vehicles and take the metro or tram to their destinations. However, there will be some restrictions in place for certain Park-and-Ride locations, particularly those near stadiums, as events may affect access. The system’s user-friendly features ensure that even first-time visitors will find it easy to move around.

Qatar’s Vision for Tourism

The Arab Cup 2025 is more than just a sporting event for Qatar; it’s a chance to showcase the country’s growing tourism infrastructure. With the Arab Cup and the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026, Qatar is positioning itself as a major global tourism hub. The metro and tram networks are a critical part of this vision, offering efficient transport that complements the country’s hotels, restaurants, shopping districts, and cultural attractions.

Qatar Rail’s ongoing investments in transport infrastructure reflect the nation’s efforts to enhance its tourism offering. These systems not only provide efficient and eco-friendly transport but also enable visitors to explore the many attractions Doha and Lusail have to offer, from the Museum of Islamic Art to the futuristic Lusail Marina. By connecting major tourism hotspots with convenient transport options, Qatar is reinforcing its position as a top destination for international tourists.

The Road Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Qatar’s Tourism

Looking beyond the Arab Cup 2025, the metro and tram systems will continue to serve as vital tools in Qatar’s tourism and transportation plans. As the country prepares for more major international events, Qatar Rail’s commitment to improving the visitor experience is evident. With a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Qatar’s transport systems are poised to become a model for urban mobility in the region.

For fans and tourists visiting during the Arab Cup, the Qatar Rail network will offer more than just a ride; it will provide an essential part of the journey, making every visit to Qatar a memorable experience.

The improvements to Qatar’s metro and tram systems are an exciting development for the tourism sector, aligning with the nation’s broader goal of offering world-class infrastructure. With convenient travel options, a focus on sustainability, and a commitment to high standards of customer service, Qatar’s rail network will play a key role in enhancing the overall tourism experience for fans attending the Arab Cup 2025.

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