This case study interrogates the event planning process, using evidence-based decision making in its application towards Qatar and the Middle-East and North Africa (MENA) region. The rise of major and mega events within the Qatar and MENA region has called for a specific focus upon educating event students, with the identification of best practice being of the utmost importance. This is epitomised in the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This case study provides a critique of event planning models made throughout the growth and understanding of event strategy and management in academic literature, using real-world examples throughout to apply to Qatar and the MENA region. This leads to a discussion of what is required from the Qatar and MENA region perspective, in line with their wider strategies for hosting mega and major events. By going through the process outlined in this case study, future event managers can understand the processes required to put on events of the highest standard.