Football fanatic Abdulla Al Qahtani applied to volunteer at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ as he was determined to take part in the biggest event ever to be held in the Middle East and Arab world.
The 30-year-old from Al Kharaitiyat enjoys everything about the beautiful game and is supporting the tournament as a protocol volunteer at Al Bayt Stadium.
Abdulla, who works for Qatar Energy, shed light on his journey, along with his pride at supporting the delivery of the first FIFA World Cup in the region.
Why did you become a volunteer?
I’ve always wanted to have a role in my country’s achievement and success. So, when volunteer registration began, I knew I had to sign up. I want to give something back to my country – even if it is just a small percentage.
What’s your volunteering experience?
I began volunteering almost six years ago. Each volunteering experience teaches me a new skill. I previously volunteered during the FIFA Arab Cup at both Education City Stadium and Al Bayt, so I managed to pick up skills through these experiences, which helped me secure a volunteering role at the World Cup.
Tell us about your volunteering role at Al Bayt Stadium.
My team is responsible for protocol management of hospitality, VIP and VVIP guests at the stadium. We are expected to manage the crowd flow and ensure that everyone has a seamless experience entering and leaving the lounge and stadium.
How proud are you for being involved in this tournament?
I’m beyond grateful and proud of myself for having a role in the biggest sporting event ever to be held in our country and region. Ever since Qatar won the bid 12 years ago, I hoped to have a role in the success of the tournament.
What skills have you acquired from this experience?
I’ve learnt to communicate with fans from different parts of the world. Another skill is multi-tasking. I have also learned time management skills, which will undoubtedly help me in future volunteering experiences.
What’re your thoughts on Qatar hosting the World Cup?
I speak on behalf of all Qataris and Arabs. We are all proud to host an exceptional edition of the tournament here in Qatar, where everyone is welcome. We are all helping to host the most successful and memorable edition of the World Cup.
What would you say to people who are thinking of volunteering in future?
I encourage everyone to consider volunteering. The world of volunteering is huge. So, even if you tried a specific role and didn’t like it, there are other roles you can try. With time, you will learn more about what you like and dislike when it comes to volunteering.
What message do you hope Qatar 2022 will send to the world?
I want the World Cup to show everyone that despite Qatar’s small geographical size, it can host the biggest sporting event. I also want the world to learn about our culture and heritage, and explore our history and religion.
I know for most tourists, this is their first time in Qatar, so I try my best to give them a warm welcome, and I really hope they have the best time here.
Source: AFP
