Amir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani has disclosed the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup will be a special one as he opens up on discrimination against the Arabs.
"For decades now, the Middle East has suffered from discrimination," he said on Monday.
"And I have found, that such discrimination, is largely based on people not knowing us, and in some cases, refusing to get to know us. Even today, there are still people who cannot accept the idea, that an Arab-Muslim country would host a tournament like the World Cup.
"These individuals, including many in positions of influence, have launched attacks, at a pace never seen before," the emir said.
Qatar's leader said that other countries and regions had already staged major events, "despite the fact that each of those countries, has its own particular problems and challenges.
"Qatar is just like your own country... not perfect, constantly trying to improve, and full of hope, for a brighter future.
"We are so proud of the development, reform, and progress we have made, and we are grateful for the spotlight that the World Cup provided, which inspired us, to make these changes at lightening-speed," he said.
The 2022 World Cup will be staged in the Asian country between November and December later this year.