In the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar, alcohol service will be available in ‘specific areas’ of the stadiums.

Organizers of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar have confirmed that alcohol can be purchased in “specific areas” of the stadiums.

According to BBC’s report, a fan zone with a capacity of 40,000 in the capital city, Doha, where fans can also purchase alcohol, has been approved.

ESPN announced that beer provided by World Cup sponsor Budweiser will be available in stadiums and fan zones throughout the tournament, which kicks off on November 20.

Nasser Al Khater, CEO of Qatar 2022, stated to BBC Sport, “We want people to come and have experiences they will never forget.”

He mentioned that the committee is still finalizing its “alcohol strategy,” but this is the first announcement indicating that drinking will be allowed within stadium boundaries.

Meanwhile, the chairman of Qatar’s security and safety committee warned against attempting to secretly enter the country with alcohol. Colonel Jassim Abdulrahim Al Sayed announced that “special measures” have been taken to prevent fans from bringing their own drinks into Qatar, adding:

“I think alcohol will not be allowed at the airport and in luggage.

“There are places across the country where alcohol will be sold.”

The main fan zone will serve alcohol only after 6:30 pm, reportedly addressing Al Khater’s desire for families to have the opportunity to be in an alcohol-free environment during certain hours.

Regarding the overall alcohol policy for the World Cup, Al Khater said, “There is a misunderstanding about the sale of alcohol in stadiums and designated areas.

“We are working like any other World Cup. It’s very simple; we have always mentioned that alcohol sales are available in Qatar and will be available in designated areas.

“The fan festival will serve from 6:30 pm, but as it will attract a large number of families and children, we want to give them the opportunity to be in an alcohol-free zone at certain times of the day. Later, alcohol will be ready for the fans.”

These announcements indicate a significant relaxation in the rules in Qatar, where consuming alcohol in public places outside licensed hotel bars and restaurants is illegal.