Qatar to set up desert tent camp to house World Cup fans
By Associated Press
Sep 27, 2016 9:45 AM CDT

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The committee organizing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar plans to try out a "fan village" that could house up to 2,000 soccer spectators in Arabian desert tents.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy said Tuesday it is seeking bids to develop a pilot project near the Sealine Beach resort south of the capital, Doha.

It will offer different types of accommodation in 350 temporary tents and 300 permanent tents, along with big viewing screens and other entertainment options. A total of five fan villages could eventually be built.

Qatar is racing to build hotels and other infrastructure needed to host the games. Visitor accommodation in Qatar is currently dominated by higher-end hotels in Doha.