Page 16 - Issue 50

The Role of World Cup in

Spreading Arab Identity

Alaa Yasser Elshaer - Third level - Political Science

After European ideas and identity have affected our alcohol in the stadiums and the presence of alcohol vending
daily lives, this time the World Cup comes to remind us machines have been outlawed in Qatar. This gave this
that Arabs are still present, and their identity has a round of world cup a distinctive flavor.
different place that always distinguishes them. The Qatar clarified to foreign tourists in the World Cup guide
World Cup which held in Qatar's capital revealed the that Arabs often begin conversations with "Peace be upon
reality about the Arab identity and that Arabs are the you," it seems a welcoming phrase but if we look at it in
people of generosity and welcoming, and their people deeper way, this phrase meaning emphasized that Arabs are
are good, and you’ll only find goodness on their land. strong supporters of peace and do so at the beginning of
every conversation. This dispels the myth that Arabs are
keep calm, you're in the presence of Arabs intellectually hardliner as promoted by the Western media.
One of the most defining characteristics that set Arabs Such an Arab stereotype was fundamentally destroyed
apart from the rest of humanity is their inherent through this
generosity. The world's fans are shocked by this world cup which is good thing for Arabs.
because they have seen an unprecedented level of Foreign passengers on the Doha train found it surprising
generosity in which people have given away food and that men did not accept women standing up in the train and
candy to fans for free or have hosted them in their were eager to safeguard women and their comfort. In
homes. The hospitality camps also welcomed foreign sitting, women were always given priority.
spectators to the World Cup events The World Cup this
year tastes different because of Arabs’ generosity. present but not present
Despite Palestine not participating in the World Cup, its
Arab cultural diffusion flag was the one that was most visible. In addition to the
The rules set forth by Qatar, an Arab State that values Moroccan team's celebration of their quarterfinal win with
its identity and won't adopt any practices that are at the flag of Palestine raised, Arab fans took every
odds with the State's overall culture, are another factor opportunity to show their love of Palestine and that is not a
that makes this version different. Both the drinking matter that will be forgotten one day.