Developing a Host Volunteer Program for 2022 FIFA World Cup: Challenges and Opportunities

The purpose of this study is to assist in the development of the Host a Volunteer program by the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the body responsible for the host country planning and operations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Host a Volunteer program is part of the overall 2022 Integrated Volunteer program which sets out to deliver not only a successful FIFA World Cup 2022 but also a legacy for Qatar. The program aims to host international volunteers and at the same time address the accommodation shortage which is a challenge for any World Cup. Additionally, it intends to engage the local population and expats in the delivery of the World Cup, provide accommodation options for international volunteers selected for the Volunteer program, and showcase Qatari and Arabian hospitality to international volunteers and the world. Thus, the study specifically aimed to assess whether residents (Qatari’s and expats) would want to host volunteers from around the world, and what factors need to be taken into consideration when implementing the program. A quantitative research method was adopted for this research study and responses by residents were obtained through a survey that comprised closed-ended questions. The main findings of the study show that the most important factors when deciding whether to become a host are; the trustworthiness of the individual and how safe the host feels, habits of the volunteer and/or whether they have a disability and religion. Moreover, it was found that the most important information a host needs to know before considering hosting them include; volunteers’ transportation and food requirements, support services such as a hotline, and information about financial support. Factors that may influence someone to host a guest include; volunteers shall be supported from their own country, learning other cultures, traditional Arabic hospitality, and training and learning. Language and country of origin are the main factors that can sway someone from hosting a guest. Workshops about the Host a Volunteer Program were indicated as an important support for those who choose to decide to become a host.