The FIFA World Cup 2022 begins in two months in Qatar and, to prepare for the event, the country announced some exciting new openings and events. This news follows Qatar easing travel restrictions in early September.

Travelers no longer need to produce vaccination certificates to enter the country. Now, visitors only need to present one of two documents: a negative PCR test or a negative rapid antigen test.

“From tasting the local cuisine to visiting our iconic museums, from exhilarating dune walks to relaxing at the spa or on the beach, all guests planning to visit Qatar this autumn are in for an unforgettable experience. There is something for all ages in Qatar to suit every type of traveler and every budget,” said Berthold Trenkel, COO, Qatar Tourism.

This fall marks a series of large-scale cultural initiatives and exhibitions in Qatari museums and galleries. The Museum of Islamic Art, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect I M Pei, who also constructed the iconic glass pyramid entrance to the Louvre in Paris, reopens this season. The museum features new thematic interpretations and a new exhibition, Baghdad: Eye’s Delight.

The Al Riwaq Gallery opens a new exhibition prefiguring a new Lusail Museum, currently under development. The gallery’s first-class collection includes Orientalist art and archaeological artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.

© Qatar Tourism

Hotels also make their mark in Qatar this season. Le Meridien Doha recently opened in the heart of the country’s future city Lusail. This new property features neo-classical architecture and welcomes travelers with its chic design and European spirit. Other properties soon opening in Qatar include Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, luxury complex The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island and The Pearl Qatar.

Travelers can indulge in Qatar’s newest restaurants, including ADRIFT ANDA restaurant by Chef David Meyers; Chotto Matte, which sees Peruvian cuisine enter Qatar;, and Harrods Tea Rooms, where guests sample sandwiches and freshly baked pastries over English tea.

For entertainment, West Bay North Project complex, in the heart of Doha’s business district, includes six public and private areas with an array of leisure options. Spanning 40,000 square meters, the complex boasts beaches, restaurants and outdoor entertainment. Fuwairit Kite Beach, an ultra-modern beach resort coming to the complex, serves as the perfect spot for kiting and other water sports.

© Qatar Tourism

Known for its great shopping venues, Place Vendôme, a luxury shopping center with boutiques, a 5-star hotel and entertainment areas, invites guests to experience its wonders. This space, opened early this year, includes shops like Louis Vuitton, Dior, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Sephora and Valentino. In total, more than 500 luxury and affordable brands grace the French-style building, covering 1,150,000 square meters. The first department store of the French chain Printemps opened this September. Printemps offers a reserve service for the rarest brand goods.

At Hamad International Airport, Burberry’s first-of-its-kind boutique with a luxury shopping concept arrives.

Are you visiting Qatar this year for the FIFA World Cup 2022? What are you most excited to experience in Qatar? What new addition to Qatar interests you most? Tell us your thoughts. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.