Great aspirations

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Launched in September 2004, Qatar's Aspire Academy is housed under the largest purpose-built multi-sports dome in the world.

The Aspire Dome, designed by architect Roger Talibert, spans more than 70,000m² and is complemented by more than 160,000m² of outdoor tracks and playing fields.

With a full size football field, swimming and dive pool, combat arenas, squash courts, gymnastics hall and multi-use arenas all under one roof, the Academy is able to use climate-controlled practice and competition facilities 365 days a year - an important feature when temperatures in Qatar can reach 50°C throughout the summer months.

In total, the entire campus covers an area of 295,000m², encompassing the dome, a further seven outdoor football pitches, fitness room, running track, school faculty, dormitories to house up to 250 students, science labs, cafeteria and medical centre.

The academy uses some technologically advanced equipment. Examples include the Laser FP3 system for physiotherapy, the first in Asia.

In addition to world-class facilities, Aspire has also received the support of some of the world's greatest athletes. Sporting legends Pele, Zinedine Zidane and Hicham El Guerrouj have all given their names to the project, pushing the Academy's international marketing efforts through television and print media.

Human resources

Aspire recruits from every section of the globe. As well as recruiting the most proficient and dynamic members of Qatari society, the Academy seeks to harness the world's leading experts in sport, education, health and social affairs. More than 50 nations are represented in Aspire's diverse workforce of more than 300 employees; ensuring that the latest ideas from the international community feed into its cumulative efforts.

An in-depth orientation and induction programme is provided for all staff members. In addition, Aspire offers a comprehensive training programme, conducted both in-house and using exterior organisations. All staff are provided with an annual training plan as part of their personal development at the Academy.

The Dome

Split over five levels, and towering 46 metres high, the Aspire Dome offers a football pitch, changing rooms, maintenance and car parking in its basement.

The ground floor includes an athletics track, multi court hall, fencing court, judo court, karate and kendo hall, gym, squash court, Olympic-sized swimming pool, table tennis hall and a five-aside football hall.

The first floor boasts the audience seating area, while the second floor offers VIP lounges for the football pitch and running track.

The fifth level offers commentators rooms, television studios and the control rooms.

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