Entertaining and educational activities hosted by QBG to celebrate FIFA World Cup 2022

A programme of entertaining and educational activities to celebrate and leverage the FIFA World Cup 2022 is being hosted by the Qur’anic Botanic Garden (QBG), part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), to promote its agenda of environmental protection and sustainable development in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

An environmental exhibition at the Botanic Museum in Education City, an opportunity to experience three-dimensional (3D) hologram animation and to interact with QBG’s Robot Guide are the key highlights of the program. Moreover, there is introductory tours of the Garden led by specialists and volunteers; and the chance to practice football at the children’s play zone, among the other activities that are included.

The QBG’s main walkway is decorated to reflect the intertwining relationship between the FIFA World Cup, sustainability, and nature conservation. QBG Director  Fatima Al Khulaifi says the Garden is keen to participate in this world-class event through activities that inspire enthusiasm and passion for football in a bid to spread awareness about QBG’s role in preserving plants, the importance of promoting sustainability, and its impact on the world.

“Such events inspire participants to reflect on plant life and learn about the different types of plants, botanical terms, and Islamic principles when it comes to the importance of preserving plant diversity and resources. These activities will also enable us to convey to our visitors, in unconventional and unique ways, the teachings of Islam that urge the protection of resources for the sake of current and future generations.”

Using hologram technology, QBG has designed 3D visuals that clarify the meanings of verses from the Qur’an, aiming to provide an exceptional ambiance and the best audio-visual experience. QBG will showcase the story of plants as inspired by the World Cup to reflect the purpose behind Islam’s calls for preserving plants as the basis of life. 

The Arabic-English speaking robot will represent one of the most attractive features of the exhibition for children says Abdul Rahman Al Hammadi, QBG’s Events and social media Officer. It will guide visitors and share information about plants and the Botanic Museum in an entertaining and unique way. According to Al Hammadi, QBG will also be organizing introductory tours led by a team of specialists and volunteers to explore the unique sensory gardens such as the Water, Desert, Sound, Vines, and Children’s gardens. The tours will feature information on the various types of plants mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and how they were used in the Prophet’s era. 

There will be a children’s playground alongside the exhibition. The garden’s main walkway will be decorated with football-shaped pots, leading to a special football-themed entertainment area for younger visitors. 

The exhibition at the Botanic Garden will be open daily throughout the tournament, while registration links for the tour will be shared on QBG’s social media and website.