Mohammed Al-Thani ^*

• Qatar University, Doha, Qatar

This paper examines Qatar's hosting of the World Cup through the lens of liminality, illuminating the intricate interplay between tradition, modernity, and human rights. It delves into the complexities of societal transformation within the liminal space created by the event. By introducing liminality as an analytical tool, the study explores how Qatar navigates traditional norms amidst global scrutiny, particularly concerning human rights issues such as migrant labour practices and cultural contestations around LGBT rights. Employing liminality as a conceptual framework, this analysis offers a nuanced understanding of Qatar's endeavour to balance cultural authenticity with international expectations. The paper highlights the transient nature of change during the liminal phase of mega-events, emphasising both the opportunities and challenges presented by Qatar's role as host of the World Cup. The event is portrayed as a transformative mega-event, offering a liminal space where Qatar engages with processes of change and adaptation. Within this transitory liminal space, the World Cup acts as a catalyst for introspection and societal evolution. Qatar addresses critical issues stemming from human rights, such as labour exploitation and gender equality, which may prompt rectifications in its legal and social frameworks. At the heart of this liminal terrain, the contested notion of human rights extends beyond the confines of the sporting arena to challenge deeply rooted societal norms. Through a lens marked by complexity and nuance, this paper endeavours to uncover the hidden truths and transformative potentials emanating from the liminal realm of the World Cup. In this transitory liminal space, the World Cup is a space that poses a catalyst for introspection and societal evolution. Qatar confronts pressing issues stemming from human rights such as labour exploitation, gender equality, that may prompt rectification of its legal and social frameworks.The concept of liminality is posited as a pertinent analytical tool, providing a nuanced perspective on Qatar's navigation between tradition and modernity.