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The Marvelous Architecture of Qatar: FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Stadiums

The stadium architecture for the upcoming World Cup highlights contemporary designs and renowned architects, mirroring the country's major aesthetic transformation.

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Architecture in Qatar fuses modern geometric aesthetics with traditional design forms. Examples of this include the recently reopened Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I. M. Pei, which blends traditional Islamic architecture with the modernity of the twenty-first century; and the National Museum of Qatar, brought to life by Jean Nouvel, who envisioned an architectural masterpiece of interlocking discs inspired by the desert rose.

These iconic museums represent more than just breathtaking design. Each one has been built with sustainability in mind. Qatar Museums seeks to nurture environmental awareness in tandem with its development of art, culture and knowledge.

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Decorated stone arches with a doorway in shade and a view of the National Museum of Qatar in the background

This approach has also been intrinsic to the architectural philosophy and conceptualization of the eight stadiums designed for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, each of which has been created to reflect Qatari culture while also accounting for environmental sustainability.

These spectacular architectural achievements draw from diverse sources for inspiration, from traditional headwear and nomadic tents to functional shipping containers and elaborate Arabic patterns. They have also been constructed with sustainable building methods, and feature state-of-the-art water and energy-saving technologies.

Once the tournament is over, several of these stadiums will be transported to countries in need of football infrastructure. This special combination of beauty and sustainable design makes these stadiums fitting venues for the world's greatest football tournament.

Loubna Zeidan is an Editorial Specialist at Qatar Museums.