Get ready to step onto the ice in the heart of Doha. On Thursday, 30 April 2026, the Qatar Winter Sports Committee is throwing open the doors of the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena (ABHA Arena) for a one-of-a-kind public event that brings curling, ice hockey, and family ice experiences together under one roof.
From exhibition matches to hands-on fun, this is your chance to discover the thrill of winter sports – Qatari style. And the best part? Entry is free.
Event at a Glance
- Event: Qatar Winter Sports – Ice Rink Opening & Public Experience
- Date: Thursday, 30 April 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena (ABHA Arena), Al Sadd Sports Club, Al Rayyan
- Entry: Free to attend
- Part of: Years of Culture – Qatar-Canada-Mexico 2026
Why This Event Is a Game-Changer for Qatar
Qatar is rapidly emerging as a regional hub for winter sports, and this public opening marks a landmark moment. The first series of events will take place at the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena on Thursday, 30 April 2026, featuring an exhibition curling match followed by an open house, as well as an exhibition ice hockey match accompanied by family experience sessions.
This initiative reflects Qatar’s ambition to diversify its sporting portfolio and introduce residents and visitors to ice sports — something rarely experienced in the Gulf region. Whether you’re a curious beginner, a sports enthusiast, or a family looking for a unique day out, this event offers something extraordinary.
What to Expect on Ice
Exhibition Curling Match
Watch skilled players glide stones across the ice in one of the world’s most strategic winter sports. After the match, visitors can attend an open house to learn more about the game and meet the players.
Exhibition Ice Hockey Match
Feel the speed, power, and excitement of ice hockey with a live exhibition showcase. Perfect for fans of high-energy team sports.
Family Experience Sessions
Interactive family-friendly activities designed to introduce kids and parents to the magic of the ice – an unforgettable first skate experience for many.
About the Venue: ABHA Arena
The Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, located at Al Sadd Sports Club, is one of Qatar’s premier indoor sports venues. Opened in November 2014, the arena has a seating capacity of 7,700 and serves as a multi-purpose venue for handball, basketball, and a growing range of international sporting events.
Recently, the arena has become the home of Qatar’s winter sports movement. In July 2025, the Ministry of Sports and Youth launched ice skating and stick-handling training sessions for children aged 7 to 16, marking a strategic step toward building Qatar’s winter sports community.
International interest is also growing. The Ambassadors of Korea and Japan recently visited the ice rink at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena to review the facilities dedicated to ice sports – a reflection of Qatar’s growing global reputation in winter disciplines.
Part of Years of Culture: Qatar-Canada-Mexico 2026
This event is proudly part of the Years of Culture initiative, which in 2026 celebrates a cultural partnership between Qatar, Canada, and Mexico. Curling and ice hockey – deeply rooted in Canadian heritage – take centre stage as part of this cross-cultural exchange, bringing authentic winter sports experiences to Qatari audiences.
Why You Should Attend
Here’s why this event is a must on your calendar:
- Completely free entry : no tickets or booking required
- First-of-its-kind experience in Qatar for ice sports
- Family-friendly with dedicated activities for children
- Cultural significance as part of Years of Culture 2026
- Meet athletes and watch live exhibition matches
- Perfect weekend-worthy outing in Al Rayyan
- Instagram-worthy moments : an ice rink in Qatar is rare and memorable
How to Get There
Address: Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena (ABHA Arena), Al Nadi Street, Al Sadd Sports Club, Al Rayyan, Qatar Nearest Area: Al Sadd / Fereej Al Soudan Parking: Available on-site
The venue is easily accessible from central Doha by car, taxi, or ride-share. If you’re using public transport, take the Doha Metro to the nearest station and grab a taxi for the final leg.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first ice rink experience in Qatar, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress in layers : the arena is cooler than Qatar’s usual climate
- Wear warm socks if you plan to try skating
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the exhibition matches
- Bring the whole family : kids will love the family experience sessions
- Don’t forget your camera : the ice rink makes for striking photos
- Follow @qatarwintersports on Instagram for live updates
The Bigger Picture: Qatar’s Winter Sports Vision
This event isn’t a one-time spectacle – it’s the opening chapter of Qatar’s ambitious 2026 Winter Sports Development Programme. With growing facilities, international partnerships, and the upcoming Qatar Cup 2026 for Ice Hockey, the country is positioning itself as a pioneering destination for winter sports in the Middle East.
As more events are announced through the Years of Culture platform and Qatar Winter Sports Committee’s official channels, expect the ice rink to become one of Doha’s most exciting new cultural and sporting destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ice rink opening event really free? Yes, the event is open to the public with no entry fee or ticket required.
What time should I arrive? Doors open at 4:00 PM and the event runs until 9:00 PM. Arriving early is recommended for the best experience.
Can I actually skate on the ice? The event includes family experience sessions. Check the official @qatarwintersports social media channels for exact on-ice participation details.
Is the event suitable for children? Absolutely. Family experience sessions are part of the programme and are designed for all ages.
Where exactly is Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena? The arena is located in Al Rayyan, within the Al Sadd Sports Club complex on Al Nadi Street.
Will there be more winter sports events after this? Yes. This is the first in a series of events under the 2026 Winter Sports Development Programme, with more planned throughout the year.
Save the Date
Don’t miss Qatar’s most exciting new sporting experience. Bring your family, bring your friends, and come discover ice sports in a setting you never imagined possible in the desert.
📍 Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena 📅 Thursday, 30 April 2026 🕓 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM 🎟️ Free Entry
Follow @qatarwintersports for the latest updates, event highlights, and more.
#YearsofCulture #QatarCanadaMexico2026
Event details are subject to change. For the latest information, visit the official Years of Culture website or follow Qatar Winter Sports on social media.
