May is shaping up nicely in Doha. The weather hasn’t fully turned on us yet, the calendar is packed, and there’s something for everyone this week, whether you’re chasing a water circus, a fashion exhibition, or a plate of green curry that doesn’t require a flight to Bangkok.
Here’s your quick guide to the best events happening in Qatar from May 3 to May 9, 2026. Save it, share it, and pick your weekend plans.
1. Zinatha 8th Edition at Galleria Al Hazm
A celebration of Arab and Khaleeji women, Zinatha is back with its eighth edition. Expect a curated lineup of fashion, beauty, bridal wear, and accessories from regional designers, all under the marble arches of Doha’s most photogenic mall.
- Dates: May 6 to 13, 2026
- Location: Galleria Al Hazm, Al Markhiya Street
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Entry: Free
- Website: alhazm.com
- Instagram: @zinathaexhibition
2. Contemporary Graphic Art Exhibition at Katara
A group exhibition by artists from Qatar and across the Arab region, showcasing hand-printing techniques and works inspired by Gulf heritage. If you’re into prints, ink, and slow art-viewing, this one’s for you.
- Dates: May 4 to 18, 2026
- Location: Katara Cultural Village, Building 18, Hall 2
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Entry: Free
- Website: katara.net
- Instagram: @kataraqatar
3. Tuesday Running Program at Mina Park
Fit Island Qatar is running a three-month structured program every Tuesday until the end of June. It’s built around consistency, pacing, and personal goals, so it’s more focused than a casual group run but less intense than a competitive club. Mina Park makes a great backdrop, especially in the evenings.
- Dates: April 7 to June 30, 2026 (every Tuesday)
- Location: Mina Park, behind The Terminal, Old Doha Port
- Booking: WhatsApp +974 6000 5499
- Instagram: @fit.island.qa
4. The Fontana Show at Hyatt Plaza
Cirque du Liban’s first travelling water circus in the Middle East. Think aerialists, acrobatics, a musical dancing fountain, and full-on theatrical lighting in a purpose-built circus tent. It’s family-friendly and unlike anything else happening in Qatar right now.
- Dates: April 30 to May 31, 2026
- Location: Circus Tent, Hyatt Plaza
- Tickets: QAR 95 (Green) to QAR 360 (Gold)
- Booking: doha.platinumlist.net
- Website: cirqueduliban.com
5. Lusail Karting at Lusail International Circuit
If you’ve ever wanted to drive on a track that hosts Formula 1 and MotoGP, this is your chance. The 900m karting circuit runs 12-minute sessions in 270cc karts that hit 50 to 60 km/h. Bookings are online only and slots fill up fast on weekends.
- Dates: Year-round, Wednesday to Saturday (until November 30, 2026)
- Timings: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Price: QAR 125 per 12-minute session
- Age: 13 and above (minimum height 153cm)
- Booking: lcsc.qa
- Instagram: @lusailcircuit
6. Tajheezat Eid Al Adha Fair at DECC
The Eid prep fair to end all Eid prep fairs. Products from over 15 countries, from perfumes and abayas to home decor, accessories, and everyday essentials. It’s a one-stop shop for everything you need before the holiday hits.
- Dates: April 23 to May 5, 2026
- Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC)
- Timings: Sunday to Thursday 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Entry: Free
- Website: decc.qa
- Instagram: @qatarmarketeers
7. Thai Food Festival at Saffron, Banyan Tree Doha
Part of the citywide ‘Together at the Table: Thailand & Qatar’ celebration, Saffron is one of 12 restaurants offering special Thai menus across Doha this fortnight. Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant sits on the 24th floor with views to match the food.
- Dates: April 22 to May 9, 2026
- Location: Saffron, 24th floor, Banyan Tree Doha (La Cigale Mushaireb)
- Reservations: Call +974 4410 3310 or WhatsApp +974 3992 0505
- Website: banyantree.com/qatar/doha
- Instagram: @saffrondoha
Quick Tips Before You Go
- Book Fontana early. Weekend slots disappear first, especially in the Gold and Silver categories.
- Karting fills up fast. Book your slot 2 to 3 days ahead for weekends.
- Tajheezat closes May 5, so this is your last week to shop the Eid fair.
- Thai Food Festival ends May 9, and reservations at Saffron are recommended on weekends.
May 2026 is one of the busier months on Qatar’s calendar, with Doha International Book Fair and more lined up later. But this week alone gives you exhibitions, art, food, motorsport, and a water circus, all within a 30-minute drive of each other.
For more weekly roundups, things to do in Qatar, and Doha lifestyle guides, follow People and Qatar on Instagram @peopleandqatar.
