Gulf Studies

This open access book presents a collection of case studies to analyse the FIFA World Cup 2022 held in Qatar, which revealed several complex aspects related to global football - its organization, its community, its related power dynamics, and its socio-economic implications. Behind this mega event lay unspoken narratives about the difficulties of hosting this global tournament in Qatar. This book takes the reader on a journey along the numerous strands connected to this multifaceted event. The case studies excavate both the best practices and the challenges that public policymakers and institutions in Qatar encountered in organizing the FIFA World Cup, including the pressures from various stakeholders involved, including FIFA, the sponsors, the football fans, and the local residents of Qatar. One such case sheds light on the debate surrounding the linkage between government-spending and the subsequent economic impact of hosting such a mega sporting event. The collection also delves into nuanced discussions about volunteering behaviour. Several case studies approach the central questions of sustainability and related implications following the Qatar event. As the first football World Cup to take place in a Middle Eastern country, the case studies also spotlight the role of cultural differences and associated implications, such as nation branding. Relevant to sociologists, economists, business and marketing researchers, and sports studies researchers, this book is a unique compilation bringing together multiple interdisciplinary, critical perspectives on Qatar's FIFA experience - from within the region, and beyond.