The decision to move the World Cup to winter was not enough to escape the harsh heat of Qatar. However, this challenge has been addressed by modern air conditioning systems, ensuring that the temperature in the stadiums for the 2022 World Cup remains at an ideal range of 24-28 degrees Celsius.
While some places may experience water shortages, Qatar is not one of them. The consumption of fresh water in this country is extremely high because it is readily available. They produce it by desalinating seawater. And water is the primary resource used in cooling technology.
The cooling technology was first introduced in Qatar in 2017, coinciding with the upgrade of the Khalifa International Stadium. Here’s how it works:
A massive solar farm in the desert outside the capital, Doha, provides energy to operate the cooling system, which lowers water temperatures to 7 degrees Celsius. Chilled water is then delivered to the stadiums, transforming into cool air through vents installed beneath the seats and air outlets on the roof. The air is subsequently sucked back in, filtered, further cooled, and then expelled. This recycling of cool air creates a closed-loop system.
What about the playing field? On the walls surrounding the field, 170 ventilation pipes push cool air into the grass area, keeping players at an ideal temperature regardless of the outside conditions. Additionally, based on aerodynamics research, Qatari scientists collaborated with architects during the stadium’s construction to optimize the cooling system, ensuring that hot air does not infiltrate the interior.
Workers installing the cooling system at the 2022 World Cup stadium.
Moreover, over 300 small sensors are installed around the stadium to collect data on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and even the type of clothing fans are wearing in specific areas. After compiling and analyzing the data, engineers in the control room will determine the necessary temperature and cooling levels for each area.
Saud Abdulaziz Abdul Ghani, known as Dr. Cool, is a Professor at Qatar University of Engineering and has been tasked with finding solutions for the Arab heat since 2009, when Qatar was bidding to host the 2022 World Cup. After 13 years, it is finally time for Dr. Cool to enjoy the fruits of his labor. “Players will have the best experience of their lives,” he said contentedly.
