The Gulf state says Coronavirus vaccinations will not be mandatory for the million-plus fans going to the World Cup in Qatar this year.
The health ministry says players and match officials however may be forced into a secure bio-bubble if Covid-19 cases take off again, with the threat of expulsion from the tournament for those who breach the secure environment.
Qatar organizers, who have predicted that more than one million people will pack Doha for the matches, and football’s governing body, FIFA, have said they want the event to be a sign the world is getting over the devastating pandemic.
Fans will have to wear masks in public transport but authorities are only recommending the use of masks at the eight stadiums in the Doha region where matches will be played.