Qatar's strong bond with water was highlighted during the World Aquatics Championships - Doha 2024 Opening Ceremony, an immersive and thrilling spectacle held at the Aspire Dome that encouraged peace and harmony via sport. The inaugural World Aquatics Championships in the Middle East were formally inaugurated in front of an assembled audience comprising IOC members, high-ranking Qatari officials, and members of the World Aquatics community. The unique ceremony honoured Qatari heritage and the six aquatic sports competing over 17 days in Doha, emphasising that "in the water there are no borders."
The importance of water in uniting people was highlighted by Qatari artist Azzam Al Mannai, who is well-known for his photographs of the country's native whale sharks, after a magnificent rendition of the national song by a local children's choir. The arena filled up with the glow of the audience's wristbands, further adding to the immersive experience.
White flags were flown as a sign of peace as the colours and flags of all the participating countries were projected together alongside the pool. As the voice of peace, Nada Mohammed Wafa, the first female athlete from Qatar to compete in the Olympics, swam in London 2012 and gave a stirring speech.
For further information, including ticket news, visit https://www.worldaquatics-doha2024.com/en/ticketing to witness the world's top aquatic athletes compete in this historic event in Qatar.
