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Speaking after the latest 2022 FIFA World Cup™ stadium design launch – taking the total to seven – H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi said the groundbreaking project to efficiently build a 'fully demountable' venue will be another of the tournament's lasting legacies.
"It is a unique design that we believe will serve as a benchmark for demountable temporary stadiums throughout the world," he said. "That in itself will leave a legacy in the design of stadiums by the State of Qatar and the 2022 World Cup."
Many elements of the arena, including all 40,000 seats, the containers and even the roof, will be re-used, providing valuable infrastructure to sporting and non-sporting projects.
Something else, Al Thawadi says, that will mean the legacy of the FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East lives long after the curtain comes down on 2022.
"The land will be re-utilised after 2022," he continued. "It will either be returned to the government or utilised for private investment – and considering the land is in the heartland of the country, it will obviously benefit the local area."
The location of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium is indeed another of its draws. It will sit on the shoreline of the Arabian Gulf, and across the water from Doha's stunning West Bay skyline. Quite the backdrop, says Al Thawadi – but also an area of historical significance.
"The location of Ras Abu Aboud, for us, holds a very dear place in our hearts," he explained. "It is home to Qatar Petroleum, and the location represents part of our development history – especially during the early days of Qatar's story and Qatar's growth and prosperity.
"There is of course another element that makes this location very special – it is one of the few remaining areas in the city of Doha that is alongside a beach. It's actually an extension of the Corniche, which is our water-facing area. It's a very beautiful and valuable location for us."