January 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months of the year in Qatar and the best time to explore things to do in Doha during the winter season. From major sporting tournaments and global music festivals to desert experiences, food events and family-friendly attractions, Doha is hosting a packed calendar of must-see events across the city. With pleasant Doha January weather and international visitors arriving in large numbers, January is peak season for winter activities in Qatar.
This guide matters because it brings together the best things to do in Qatar in January 2026 in one place. You will find what is happening, where it is taking place, and how to attend. Whether you are planning things to do in Doha, visiting Qatar for a short break, looking for things to do in Doha this weekend, or deciding which tickets to book first, this article offers a clear, date-wise view of the month.
Event Overview: Things to Do in Qatar in January 2026
January 2026 in Qatar blends culture, sport and entertainment at scale, making it one of the busiest months of the year. Events take place across Doha, Sealine, Katara, Lusail and Msheireb, offering options for solo travellers, families and visitors on short stays.
You can expect:
- Heritage and desert festivals ideal for winter weather
- World-class sporting tournaments
- International concerts and music festivals
- Automotive and lifestyle showcases
- Major food and business events
This period is especially popular for visitors searching for things to do in Doha with kids, things to do in Doha at night, and short itineraries such as things to do in Doha in one day or what to do in Doha for 3 days.
Heritage, Culture and Outdoor Experiences
Ennat Toyota Desert Experience
A hands-on off-road driving experience focused on Toyota and Lexus SUVs, ideal for visitors looking for outdoor winter activities in Qatar.
Event highlights
- Guided dune driving and obstacle courses
- Advanced vehicle technology showcases
Key information
- Date: January 1 to January 31, 2026
- Opening hours : Thursday & Saturday -11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday -12:00 PM to 12:00 AM Midnight
- Location: Sealine Beach Road, Mesaieed
- Entry: On-site experience
- Website: https://www.aamotors.com/en-qa/latest-news/ennattoyota
Medina Centrale Carnival
A recurring weekend carnival perfect for families searching for things to do in Doha with kids.
Event highlights
- Live singers and comedy acts
- Parades, mascots and kids entertainment
Key information
- Date: January 1 to February 6, 2026
- Location: Medina Centrale, The Pearl Island
Brouq 2026
A curated desert escape combining luxury camping, dining and cultural programming, popular among visitors planning short winter getaways.
Event highlights
- Glamping and curated dining
- Adventure activities and cultural evenings
Key information
- Date: Until January 17, 2026
- Location: Desert location in Qatar
- Booking: https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/102522/brouq
Lantern Festival
A long-running visual attraction that remains one of the most visited things to do in Doha Qatar during winter.
Event highlights
- Large-scale lantern installations
- Immersive cultural displays
Key information
- Date: January 1 to March 28, 2026
- Location: Al Bidda Park, Doha
- Entry: Ticketed
Baraha Cinema and Hosh Msheireb
Open-air cinema and cultural gatherings in Msheireb, ideal for visitors looking for things to do in Doha at night.
Event highlights
- Outdoor film screenings
- Taste Cinema Experience
- Traditional Qatari coffee and performances
Key information
- Baraha Cinema: January 1 to January 3, 2026
- Hosh Msheireb: January 1 to January 31, 2026
- Location: Msheireb Downtown Doha
- Website – https://www.msheireb.com/mdd_events/baraha-cinema/
- More info – Click here
Sporting Events and International Competitions
These events attract global audiences and are a major reason January is peak season for things to do in Doha January
Marmi 2026: Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival
One of Qatar’s most important heritage sporting festivals.
Event highlights
- Competitive falconry events
- Traditional markets and visitor facilities
Key information
- Date: January 1 to January 24, 2026
- Location: Sabkhat Marmi, Sealine
- More info – Click here
HH The Father Amir Prix
A major fixture on the Doha equestrian calendar.
Event highlights
- Elite international showjumping
- Part of the Doha Equestrian Tour
Key information
- Date: January 2 to January 31, 2026
- Location: Longines Arena, Al Shaqab
- More info – Click here
WTT Champions Doha 2026
Top-tier international table tennis competition.
Event highlights
- World-ranked athletes
- High-intensity championship matches
Key information
- Date: January 7 to January 11, 2026
- Location: Lusail Sports Arena
- More info – https://www.worldtabletennis.com/eventInfo?selectedTab=Overview&eventId=3231
Monster Jam Doha
A family-friendly motorsport event and one of the most searched things to do in Qatar this weekend during its run.
Event highlights
- Monster truck races and freestyle stunts
- Family-friendly motorsport action
Key information
- Date: January 9 to January 10, 2026
- Location: Sealine Circuit Sports Club Mawater
- Tickets – Sold out
- More Info – Click here
Doha Marathon by Ooredoo
A flagship community and elite running event.
Event highlights
- Multiple race categories
- Scenic Corniche route
Key information
- Date: January 16, 2026
- Location: Hotel Park, Doha Corniche
- Website – https://dohamarathonooredoo.com/en/
Samla International Race
An extreme endurance challenge unique to Qatar.
Event highlights
- 100 km multi-discipline race
- Tests resilience, teamwork and stamina
Key information
- Date: January 24, 2026
- Location: Sealine, Qatar
- Website – https://samla.com.qa/samla100/2026/
Doha Fencing Grand Prix 2026
A premier FIE World Circuit event.
Event highlights
- Over 400 elite athletes
- Olympic-level competition
Key information
- Date: January 23 to January 25, 2026
- Location: Aspire Dome, Doha
- More Info – Click here
Concerts, Live Music and Entertainment
January is also ideal for visitors planning things to do in Doha at night or cultural evenings.
Ludovico Einaudi Live in Doha
A rare contemporary classical performance.
Event highlights
- Atmospheric piano-led compositions
Key information
- Date: January 9, 2026
- Location: Katara Amphitheatre
- More Info – Click here
Sealine Nights Concert Series
A rotating line-up of Arabic music nights.
Event highlights
- Moudi & Sultan Khalifa at Sealine Nights
- Khaled Abdulrahman at Sealine Nights
- Samri Night at Sealine Nights
- Outdoor concert setting
Key information
- Dates: January 16, 23 and 30, 2026
- Location: Sealine Circuit Sports Club Mawater
25N 51E Music Festival
One of the biggest electronic music events in Qatar.
Event highlights
- International DJ line-up
- Dual-stage festival experience
Key information
- Date: January 30, 2026
- Location: 974 Stadium Precinct
- More info – Click here
Business, Food and Major Cultural Events
Qatar International Food Festival 2026
One of the most popular things to do in Doha Qatar during winter.
Event highlights
- Global food concepts
- Live cooking demonstrations
Key information
- Date: January 14 to January 24, 2026
- Location: 974 Stadium Precinct
- More info – Click here
DIMDEX 2026
A major international defence and maritime exhibition.
Event highlights
- Global industry leaders
- Strategic dialogue and innovation
Key information
- Date: January 19 to January 22, 2026
- Location: Qatar National Convention Centre
- More info – Click here
Why January 2026 Events Matter in Qatar
January is peak season for winter activities in Qatar. The cooler weather supports outdoor festivals, tourism is at its highest, and Doha becomes a regional hub for sport, culture and live entertainment.
This makes January ideal for visitors planning things to do in Doha for a day, things to do in Doha for 2 days, or even Doha layover things to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest events in Qatar in January 2026?
Major highlights include WTT Champions Doha, Qatar International Food Festival, Monster Jam, Doha Marathon and multiple international concerts.
Are January events in Doha suitable for families?
Yes. Many events such as the Lantern Festival, Medina Centrale Carnival and outdoor cinema experiences are family-friendly.
Where can I buy tickets for January 2026 events in Qatar?
Tickets are available through official event websites, venue platforms and authorised ticketing partners depending on the event.
What are the biggest things to do in Doha in January 2026?
Major highlights include WTT Champions Doha, Qatar International Food Festival, Monster Jam, Doha Marathon and multiple international concerts.
Is January a good time to visit Doha?
Yes. January offers the best Doha weather of the year and is ideal for outdoor events, sightseeing and winter activities.
What can I do during a short visit or Doha layover?
Visitors can explore Msheireb, Katara, The Pearl, outdoor festivals and evening concerts, making it easy to plan things to do in Doha in one day or during a layover.
Are there family-friendly things to do in Doha?
Yes. Events like the Lantern Festival, Medina Centrale Carnival and outdoor cinema experiences are suitable for families and children.
