The Fifa World Cup’s entry rules have been relaxed. From December 2, international visitors without tickets will be permitted to come to the country when the group stage ends and enjoy all the football action of the knockout stage.

“We are delighted to announce that fans without tickets can enter the State of Qatar after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group Stage — starting from 2 December 2022 –- to enjoy the unique atmosphere here with teams and fans in the country,” Road to 22 tweeted.

All ticket owners must still apply for a Hayya Card. Additionally, until 23 December, visitors from outside the country who cross the border at Abu Samra must have a car entrance permit.

There will be a fee for fans crossing the border in their vehicles, but citizens, residents, and GCC nationals who own a Qatari ID card will be exempted from the fee.

The opening ceremony will begin on 20 November at 5 pm GMT—two hours before the opening match between Qatar and Ecuador—at Al Bayt stadium.

La’eeb, the tournament’s official mascot, will kick off the month-long football tournament, followed by remarks from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

“I advise that all ticket holders arrive at the stadium to attend the opening ceremony two to three hours before the game begins,” said Khaled Al Mawlawi, deputy director general for Marketing, Communication, and Tournament Experience for the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.

At the opening ceremony, numerous international artists are anticipated to perform, including Black Eyed Peas, BTS, and Shakira. The tournament’s official song, Light The Sky, will be performed by Nora Fatehi, a Canadian actress known for her work in Indian films.

Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas comes to the Middle East on 23 November 2022. Click here to know more.