Doha, December 05 (QNA) - The International Volunteer Day (December 5) coincides this year with the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which continues until Dec. 18, with the participation of more than 20,000 volunteers in supporting various aspects of the tournaments operations, forming the beating heart of the global event, and one of the main pillars in the success of hosting the first edition of the World Cup in the Arab world.

In an interview with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) website, football fanatic Abdulla Al Qahtani said: " Ive always wanted to have a role in my countrys achievement and success. So, when volunteer registration began, I knew I had to sign up. I want to give something back to my country even if it is just a small percentage. I began volunteering almost six years ago. Each volunteering experience teaches me a new skill. I previously volunteered during the FIFA Arab Cup at both Education City Stadium and Al Bayt, so I managed to pick up skills through these experiences, which helped me secure a volunteering role at the World Cup".

Al Qahtani said about his experience as a volunteer at Al Bayt Stadium, : "My team is responsible for protocol management of hospitality, VIP and VVIP guests at the stadium. We are expected to manage the crowd flow and ensure that everyone has a seamless experience entering and leaving the lounge and stadium,"

He added: "I am beyond grateful and proud of myself for having a role in the biggest sporting event ever to be held in our country and region. Ever since Qatar won the bid 12 years ago, I hoped to have a role in the success of the tournament. I have learned to communicate with fans from different parts of the world. Another skill is multi-tasking. I have also learned time management skills, which will undoubtedly help me in future volunteering experiences".

On Qatar hosting the World Cup he said: " I speak on behalf of all Qataris and Arabs. We are all proud to host an exceptional edition of the tournament here in Qatar, where everyone is welcome. We are all helping to host the most successful and memorable edition of the World Cup".

Al Qahtani concluded by saying: " I encourage everyone to consider volunteering. The world of volunteering is huge. So, even if you tried a specific role and didnt like it, there are other roles you can try. With time, you will learn more about what you like and dislike when it comes to volunteering. I want the World Cup to show everyone that despite Qatars small geographical size, it can host the biggest sporting event. I also want the world to learn about our culture and heritage, and explore our history and religion. I know for most tourists, this is their first time in Qatar, so I try my best to give them a warm welcome, and I really hope they have the best time here". (QNA)