Qatar’s World Cup conduct surpasses all expectations, says AmCham official
Business Reporter
Qatar has surpassed expectations for the smooth conduct of the World Cup and it is incredible to see an entire country evolve in preparation for the tourism and influx of guests, according to a top official of American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Qatar.
“I think Qatar has surpassed expectations. The games continue to run smoothly and Qatar has adapted as needed to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. I’ve been to multiple matches so far, with no logistical complaints,” AmCham Qatar executive director Brooke Holland told Gulf Times.
Highlighting that the current World Cup makes history as the first in the Middle Eastern region, Holland went on to say that since winning the bid in 2010, in some ways, Qatar has built itself around the games. “Unlike other countries where they have utilised mostly the existing infrastructure, it’s been incredible to see an entire country evolve in preparation for the tourism and influx of guests,” she said.
When asked about the criticisms emanating from certain sections of international society, the AmCham official said being an American expat living in Qatar,
she gets asked almost daily by friends and family back home about the latest news headline. “I tell them they should come, visit and then ask me the same question. After being a resident here with my family, I do think Qatar suffers some unfair criticism compared to its counterparts,” she said. Nevertheless, Qatar has taken its public criticism and feedback well, she said, adding just like there’s a huge spotlight on Qatar right now, there’s also about to be one on North America when they host.
“The World Cup is a recurring event. Past and current host nations should constantly be preserving process and debriefing materials for future host nation use. This transfer of historical knowledge has and will continue to be key to host country success next World Cup,” Holland said. On the operational smoothness in gaining entry into Qatar, she said the feedback received from those travelling from the US into Qatar has been “positive”. The airports have been “quick and efficient” despite the significant increase in arrivals, according to her.
Specifically, in regards to Hayya Card, she said the initial snags were resolved before the arrival of guests from the US. “Overall, again, I think that Qatar has surpassed a lot of expectations (mine included) about handling such an influx of visitors. All of my US colleagues have made it into Qatar without major issue, and are enjoying the games. They are enjoying the cultural experience Qatar has to offer,” she said.
Asked how this World Cup has thrown open opportunities for the people-to-people and business-to-business relations to improve and strengthen between the US and Qatar; Holland said the US-Qatar relationship is thriving and reiterated that “we are seeing this in many areas, not just surrounding the World Cup.”
“As the Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar I also have the benefit of seeing the growth of the American business and expat communities first hand. The American private sector, the members of AmCham, does its part to help with progressive initiatives and to be a partner to Qatar.”
Highlighting that this iconic year actually marks the 50th anniversary of US-Qatar diplomatic relations; she said: “The American businesses that operate here aren’t just here for the World Cup, they are here long term. As an American community we’re working to move the needle forward as a stakeholder in the success of Qatar. I look forward to seeing even more growth and partnership with the American private sector and our growing American expat community.”