Qatar’s Hotels: A Sticky Situation for Same‑Sex Couples at the World Cup
While FIFA’s “everything’s fine, just book a room” mantra echoes across the media, a sneaky Scandinavian survey suggests a different reality for the Gulf’s 69 top‑rated lodgings.
What the Numbers Say
- Three hotels on FIFA’s official list have a blanket “no‑entry” policy for same‑sex couples.
- Twenty‑seven other guests will let them stay, provided their pronouns stay under wraps.
<li Thirty‑three hotels welcome everyone with open arms—no questions asked.
The trio of “no‑go” hotels wrapped up their side of the story in silence when asked, so we’re left relying on Norway’s NRK, Sweden’s SVT, and Denmark’s DR to fill the gap.
Qatar’s Commitment vs. Reality
The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), the mastermind behind this year’s World Cup, calls Qatar a “conservative country” but insists it’s “committed to delivering an inclusive FIFA World Cup experience that is welcoming, safe and accessible to all.”
They also made a PSA: hotels that flout the Sustainable Sourcing Code (yes, that’s a real thing) will face swift consequences.
SC spokesperson:
“More than 100 hotels will comply with the Sustainable Sourcing Code. Operators who don’t will be monitored, evaluated, and dealt with seriously.”
FA’s Firsthand Witness
England’s boss, Gareth Southgate, ran into the same roadblock. He’d warned that pals might feel unsafe flying over to Qatar due to “human rights concerns.” He’s still standing by his remarks even as the official venues try to patch up the situation.
Timeline & Note
World Cup in Qatar runs from November 21 to December 18. Keep your eyes peeled on the 69 hotels and remember: this isn’t just about a match—it’s about hospitality, solidarity, and a fair play … in love, too.
