In 1972, the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning declared Al-Rayyan as an independent municipality. It is the third largest municipality in the country and the second largest municipality in terms of population after Doha. Its southwestern side is characterized by open deserts, agricultural lands, and scattered rural villages, which contrast with the modern and crowded eastern side. The municipality is famous for Al Rayyan Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium and Education City Stadium which will be used in the 2022 FIFA World Cup to be held in the municipality.