Qatari Female Artist Bouthayna Al Muftah Unveils Official 2022 World Cup Poster

Qatar 2022 World Cup official poster (Twitter @QatarAirways)

JAKARTA - The official poster for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar was unveiled at a special event at Hamad International Airport.

For the first time, a series of posters have been developed for the tournament – all designed by Qatari female artist Bouthayna Al Muftah. The main poster depicts a traditional headdress being tossed into the air – something that symbolizes the celebration and football fandom in Qatar and the Arab world. Seven supporting posters show the Arab world's passion for football and the game as something that unites families.

"My main inspiration is the concept of collective memory," said Al Muftah, quoted from FIFA's official website on Thursday.

“Most of my work focuses on past experiences, memories, tying them to the present and archiving them in a contemporary way. I wanted the posters to follow this theme and tell the story of Qatari football culture."

“My main inspiration was the concept of collective memory. I wanted each poster to show celebration and football fandom in Qatar.” Bouthayna Al Muftah, Qatari artist.

We present to you, the Official Poster for @FIFAWorldCup Qatar 2022. pic.twitter.com/wV1KpEFiu4

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) June 15, 2022

She continued: “I want every poster to show the celebration and fandom of football in Qatar. The main poster depicts 'gutra' and 'egal' [traditional headdress] waving in the air in a celebratory manner – which is something fans here do when a goal is scored.”

Meanwhile, FIFA Marketing Director, Jean-François Pathy, said the official poster for Qatar 2022 is a reflection of the atmosphere of Qatar's artistic and football heritage.

"We are very proud of this series of beautiful posters that depict Qatar's passion for football and highlight the world's incredibly talented local artists," she said.

“These stunning posters symbolize our love for football and our excitement to host the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and the Arab world,” continued Khalid Al Mawlawi, Deputy Director General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy.

“Our traditional headdress stands out in many tournament assets – including the design of one of our stadiums, Al Thumama, the tournament logo, the official mascot, La'eeb and now the official poster. We are extremely proud that our culture and heritage stands out in all things tournament-related.”