Qatar: Heightened security likely in Doha as a precaution for crowd management during Morocco vs. Spain match Dec. 6

Event

Authorities in Doha will likely maintain very tight security around Education City Stadium, Souq Waqif, and other popular gathering places in the Qatari capital ahead and after the FIFA World Cup match between Morocco and Spain, scheduled to kick off at 18:00 Dec. 6. Since Morocco qualified for the next phase of the FIFA World Cup Dec. 1, supporters have expressed frustration over the lack of available tickets. FIFA organizers have released over 5,000 new tickets for Moroccan and Spanish supporters, but online protests over the perceived over-pricing of the seats have been reported.

Incidents of fans without valid tickets arriving at the stadium have caused significant delays and crowd management issues in Doha. During previous matches, several Moroccan fans allegedly arrived at the stadium and tried to bypass security measures to attend the game. It is likely that similar incidents will occur on Dec. 6, creating crowd management challenges.

Qatari authorities will likely be quick to respond to any confrontations or other security incidents that may occur surrounding the game.

Advice

Exercise increased situational awareness in Doha into at least the early morning hours of Dec. 7, particularly in the vicinity of Education City Stadium and other venues where fans may hold post-match gatherings. Strictly heed the instructions of security personnel; respect local customs and avoid sensitive topics of conversation.