How is Qatar's $30 billion new city, built for the 2022 World Cup, faring now?

Qatar's Lusail New City, once the focus of global attention, is a supercity designed by top architects, carrying the dreams and expectations of countless people.

In 2022, as the host of the World Cup, it showcased its splendor and modernity.

However, after the end of the World Cup, people began to ponder: what will be the future of this city?

In Qatar, a country rich in dreams, the construction of Lusail New City is destined to shock the world.

Looking back to 2010, Qatar appeared particularly determined in its bid to host the World Cup.

Despite facing many doubts and challenges, with firm determination and substantial financial resources, Qatar ultimately won the right to host the World Cup.

Subsequently, the Qatari government mobilized massive funds and resources to start building Lusail New City.

Imagine a city with world-class sports facilities, advanced transportation systems, and modern residential areas—not just for the World Cup, but to serve as a model for future urban development.

Sports facilities are at the heart of the new city's construction.

Planned are nine world-class stadiums, with the largest capable of hosting 900,000 spectators, a marvel in stadium architecture.

To cope with Qatar's high temperatures, these stadiums are equipped with state-of-the-art artificial cooling systems to ensure optimal playing conditions.

Lusail New City's transportation system is equally impressive.

With 1,500 kilometers of underground tunnels and a high-speed maglev train capable of speeds up to 450 kilometers per hour, every corner of this city is seamlessly connected.

Such speed and convenience are unmatched by other cities.

However, constructing such a grand city is no easy feat.

Thousands of workers from around the world have gathered here, sacrificing their families and careers to engage in strenuous construction work.

Despite extremely harsh conditions, everyone is filled with anticipation and motivation to showcase their achievements at the World Cup.

The opening of the 2022 World Cup earned Lusail New City global acclaim for its impeccable facilities and thrilling matches.

The outstanding performance of Qatar's national team further elevated the city's reputation.

They not only demonstrated exceptional skills and teamwork on the field but also clinched a historic World Cup championship.

However, the good times did not last long; the end of the World Cup also marked the beginning of the decline of the new city's prosperity.

Withdrawal of investments and departure of workers swiftly plunged this once vibrant city into silence.

Instead of bustling crowds, the streets now appear desolate and bleak.

Such a rapid transformation has led people to question: where does the future of this city lie?

Lusail New City, which has seen substantial investments in resources and manpower, must find new paths for development.

Perhaps it will forever remain as a symbol of past glory—a deserted city.

The fate of this city has sparked profound reflections on urban planning and sustainable development.

As a product of a specific event, its future may depend not only on its physical infrastructure but also on finding new functions and purposes that suit its characteristics.

Perhaps Qatar needs to reassess its urban development strategy and transform Lusail into a multifunctional complex, relying not just on major events but also on long-term development in commerce, tourism, education, and other fields.

In summary, the story of Lusail New City is a modern urban legend full of hope and challenges.

Its future is not just Qatar's concern but also a significant topic in the global urbanization process.

Regardless of what lies ahead, the experiences of this city will provide valuable lessons and insights for the world.