Planning to travel to the United States for FIFA World Cup 2026? Whether you are going for the matches, the atmosphere, or the full fan experience, it is important to prepare early and make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
From passports and visas to match tickets, accommodation, transport, and safety, here are the key things you should keep in mind before and during your trip.
Check Your Passport and Visa Before Travelling
Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of travel.
Qatari citizens are eligible for the U.S Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Program, allowing visa-free travel to the United States for up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Make sure to apply online via the ESTA website or ESTA Mobile app for iOS & Android at least 72 hours before your departure
Buy Match Tickets Only from Official Platforms
If you are planning to attend matches, make sure you buy your tickets only from official platforms.
FIFA World Cup tickets are always in high demand, and that can create opportunities for fake ticket offers or scams. To avoid fraud, stick only to official FIFA channels for tickets and tournament information.
The official FIFA World Cup ticketing website is https://www.fifa.com/en/tickets
Book Accommodation and Transportation Early
Once your travel dates are confirmed, book your accommodation and transportation as early as possible.
FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to bring large crowds. Hotels, flights, and local transport options may become busier closer to the tournament. Planning ahead can make your trip easier and help you avoid last-minute stress.
Keep Your Personal Documents Safe
Your passport, visa, match tickets, and booking confirmations are some of the most important things you will need during your trip.
Keep your personal documents in a safe place and carry both paper and electronic copies. Having copies can be useful if you lose an original document or need quick access to your travel details while abroad.
Be Careful with Device Content
Before travelling, take a moment to check the content stored on your smartphone and electronic devices.
Avoid keeping or posting any sensitive content, or anything that could be misinterpreted. Being careful with digital content is part of staying prepared and respecting local rules while travelling.
Avoid Carrying Prohibited Items or Unauthorised Medication
Do not carry prohibited substances or unauthorised medication without a medical prescription.
If you need to travel with medicine, make sure it is properly documented and allowed under the relevant rules. This can help you avoid unnecessary issues during your journey.
Follow Local Laws and Stay Alert in Crowded Areas
While you are in the United States, make sure you follow the local laws of the states and cities you visit.
World Cup matches and fan areas can get very crowded, so stay alert in busy places, keep an eye on your belongings, and be careful of theft or pickpocketing. It is also recommended to use reliable transport options when moving around.
Follow Official Updates During the Tournament
During the tournament, keep up with official instructions issued by FIFA and the relevant authorities.
Download the FIFA World Cup 2026 app to stay updated with tournament-related information and new announcements during the event.
Emergency Contact Numbers in the US
In case of emergency, you can contact Qatar’s embassy or consulates in the United States through the following numbers:
Embassy of the State of Qatar in Washington, D.C: +1 (202) 320-0803
Consulate General of the State of Qatar in Los Angeles: +1 (424) 239-9903
Consulate General of the State of Qatar in New York: +1 (631) 612-7035
Consulate General of the State of Qatar in Houston: +1 (713) 355-7333
Embassy of the State of Qatar in Washington, D.C. website: washington.embassy.qa
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