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Qatar National Sports Day 2026 Unveils 800+ Events Nationwide Under “I Chose Sports” Campaign

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The National Sports Day Committee of the State of Qatar 2026 announced the particulars of the new events, set to be launched statewide in February 2026.

Under the motto “I Chose Sports”, these events are intended to help community members familiarize themselves with the importance of practicing sports as a lifestyle and for enduring health.

I Chose Sports

During the press conference held on Wednesday at Lusail Sports Hall, the Committee discussed the events agenda, which includes a diverse bundle of sports, recreational, and cultural activities, with the engagement of both public and private agencies, in public parks and sports facilities, ensuring the distribution of activities nationwide and encouraging the participation of all segments of society.

Chairman of the National Sports Day Committee 2026 and President of the Qatar Sports for All Federation (QSFA), Abdulrahman bin Muslim Al Dosari, affirmed that the choice of this motto underscores the transformation of practicing sports into a decision and responsible societal awareness, contributing to the enhancement of quality of life and public health, and making sports an effective tool in building a productive, active, and creative society.

The Sports Day has morphed into a national platform for embracing a culture of physical activity and balance, reinforcing health values within Qatari society, after it was merely an annual event, Al Dosari highlighted.

He emphasized that sports were not a temporary activity, but a lifestyle reflecting awareness and a spirit of responsibility toward oneself and society, suggesting that this day represents an annual opportunity to strengthen and embed this awareness, consistently with the nation’s vision to build a healthy, active, and sustainable society, in addition to surmounting the challenges of life faced by all.

Al Dosari noted that the opportunity is open to all members of society to engage in sports and physical activity, making use of the numerous large sports venues and facilities the nation provides.

During the conference, QSFA unveiled the 2026 calendar, comprising over 800 community sports events.

Executive Director of QSFA, Abdullah Al Dosari, reviewed the milestones of 2025, stating that QSFA organizes numerous community sports events in which all segments of society participate. He highlighted that the total number of participants reached 215,506 in events distributed across all the nation’s regions, from the north and south to central Doha, extending to the west in Dukhan and Al Jumailiya, in addition to public parks, youth centers, and sports clubs.

Al Dosari underscored the effort to expand the scope of activities to reach all available locations, noting that participation in the 365 Days of Activity program reached 35,000 participants across four different parks, taking part in 1,460 sports sessions under the supervision of 36 community coaches, confirming the rise and improvement in participation rates compared to last year.

Regarding Farjan football fields, Al Dosari reported 58,751 registered participants across 16 fields, while walking and running activities at the Farjan fields recorded 13,800 participants. School activities accounted for 22,259 participants, and the total number of participants in community events rose to 40,593 across more than 52 locations.

The Executive Director added that the number of participants in sports championships reached 6,984, while community running events saw participation increase to 38,696.

The number of women participants rose to 8,000 across 59 races during the year, achieving great success and growing engagement. He confirmed that these figures reflect the clear increase in participation, as the year before last saw 206,000 participants, while 2025 reached 216,000 participants, with a total of 750 targeted sports events, while 834 events were organized.

Al Dosari further explained that school sports events displayed great diversity, with 91 events involving 22,259 participants across 60 schools, a number higher than achieved previously. He also noted that sports championships drew record participation, with 74 championships involving 6,984 participants.

He concluded by referencing the “Sports for All” application, affirming that it is a comprehensive platform, tracking all participation in community sports events, individual walking activities and steps, event tickets, and running races.

More than 73,000 people, he confirmed, downloaded the application this year. Al Dosari hoped that QSFA succeeded in selecting the activities organized in 2025, and that 2026 will be even better, implementing the planned activities at the same high quality, exceeding 800 sports and community events, in collaboration with all partners. 

Source – QNA

Workshops to try in Qatar this weekend

Looking for workshops to try in Qatar this weekend? Doha is packed with creative, hands-on experiences that are perfect for anyone searching for unique things to do in Doha and exciting events in Qatar this January 2026. From floral bouquet design and pottery classes to candle making, canvas painting, and mirror art, these workshops offer the perfect weekend escape for couples, families, and creatives alike.

This curated guide to the best workshops to try in Qatar this weekend brings you all the essential details including dates, tickets, venue locations, and booking links across Doha and Lusail. Whether you want to learn a new skill or simply unwind, these experiences are must-try activities in Qatar right now.

Design a floral bouquet

Design a floral bouquet

Date: By reservation

Place: Blumen, Msheireb Downtown

Tickets: 600 qar. minimum of 4, up to 20 participants

Time: 9 am to 9 pm

Register – Click here

Pottery classes

Pottery classes

Date: Daily walk in

Location:

Time: 1 pm to 10 pm

Book a Class – Click here

Become a member – Click here

Canvas painting

Date: Daily walk in

Place: Artist cafe, The Pearl

Time: open 24 hours

Book– Click here

Make a candle

Make a candle

Experience the magic of candle making at our daily workshops held during shop hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but secure your spot by booking in advance for a special occasion session.

Date: Daily walk in

Place: Candeel, Lusail

Time: 11 am to 9 pm

Fee: 500 QR

Book now – Click here

Or you can book through Snoonu: Click here

Mirror painting

Mirror painting

Date: By reservation

Place: Am Art Gallery, Vendome Mall

Book – Click here

What to Expect at FuelFest Qatar: Cars, Celebrities & a Day-to-Night Festival Experience

Visit Qatar, in collaboration with MELT live, is gearing up to host FuelFest Qatar the world-renowned automotive and entertainment festival, which will take place in Doha on Friday, January 23, 2026.

FuelFest Qatar is rolling into the city with a high-energy, day-to-night festival that brings together cars, celebrities, speed, and music in one unforgettable experience.

This isn’t just a car show. It’s a full-scale lifestyle festival, delivered in partnership with Visit Qatar, and designed for car lovers, music fans, families, and anyone who enjoys a great festival atmosphere.

Big Cars. Big Names. Big Energy.

FuelFest Qatar

Expect around 500 jaw-dropping cars – from supercars and classics to custom builds and motorsport machines. Add Jason Statham, Tyrese Gibson, Cody Walker, Busta Rhymes, and Ludacris to the mix, and you’ve got one of the most star-powered festivals ever staged in Qatar.

Yes – there will be two exclusive meet & greet sessions, giving fans the chance to get up close with international celebrities.

Drift, Race, Repeat

FuelFest Qatar

The engines don’t slow down at FuelFest.
Watch professional drifters, jump into taxi drift experiences, explore activations and test your skills on racing simulators – including a Lusail Circuit F1 simulator.

Tickets Are On Sale

Want to be part of it?
FuelFest Qatar tickets are available exclusively via www.doha.platinumlist.net

Fun for Everyone (Yes, Kids Too)

FuelFest is built for all ages.
Kids can dive into gaming zones, Angry Birds activities, inflatables, face painting, and creative play areas, while adults explore food & beverage spots, merch stands, and branded activations across the venue.

When the Sun Goes Down… The Legends Take Over

FuelFest Qatar

As day turns into night, FuelFest shifts gears.

For the first time ever in Qatar, two hip-hop legends share the same stage in a one-of-a-kind live concert – Busta Rhymes and Ludacris, together, in one unforgettable night. Add DJ sets and local performers, and the energy carries on long after sunset.

Special thanks to event sponsors and partners Visit Qatar, Qatar Racing Club, Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, Rosewood Hotel, Q Auto, Qatar Insurance Company, Red Bull and Katara for helping bring FuelFest Qatar to life.

MoL urges employers to take extra precautions amid the expected weather

The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has issued an important public notice urging employers across Qatar to take extra precautions to protect workers amid expected weather changes.

In a statement shared on its official social media platforms, the Ministry reminded employers to strictly follow occupational safety and health guidelines and to implement appropriate protective measures to ensure worker safety during adverse weather conditions.

According to the Qatar Meteorology Department, the country is expected to experience partly cloudy weather with scattered rain until 15 January 2026. Forecasts also indicate strong northwesterly winds and a noticeable drop in temperatures beginning 15 January.

The Ministry stressed the importance of preparing work sites, providing suitable protective equipment, and ensuring safe working environments, particularly for outdoor and field workers who may be exposed to harsh weather.

Employers are advised to monitor official weather updates closely and take all necessary steps to safeguard the health and well-being of their workforce.

Metrolink Issues Urgent Travel Alert: Major Bus Route Changes Announced for 15–16 January 2026

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Metrolink has announced temporary service updates that will impact several popular bus routes across Doha from 10:00 pm on 15 January until 2:00 pm on 16 January 2026. Commuters and visitors are advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid delays and disruptions.

The service changes are part of operational adjustments and will affect routes connecting major transport hubs, metro stations, and key city destinations.

Metrolink Bus Service Updates for 15–16 January 2026

Passengers using Metrolink services during the affected hours should take note of the following route changes:

  • M138
    Service will be fully suspended during the update period.
  • M105
    Will operate from DECC Station, Exit 3. A few intermediate stops will be skipped.
  • M108
    Will skip Al Bidda Station.
  • M143
    Will operate from Hamad Hospital Station, Exit 3 instead of Corniche Station.
  • M144
    Will operate from The White Palace Station, Exit 2 instead of Corniche Station.
  • M315
    Will skip stops at Museum of Islamic Art Park and Doha Port.

Travel Advisory for Commuters

Metrolink has urged passengers to allow extra travel time and check route availability before heading out. Travelers are encouraged to use the Karwa Journey Planner App for real-time updates and alternative route options.

For assistance, commuters can also contact the Mowasalat Customer Service Centre at 4458 8888.

With major routes affected, early planning will help ensure smooth and hassle-free travel across Doha during the service update period.

Qatar reaffirms safety measures amid regional developments

The Ministry of Interior confirms that all necessary precautionary measures are in place to protect citizens, residents, and visitors across Qatar. Security and public safety remain the top priority, and any updates will be shared through official channels. The public is urged to rely only on authorized sources and avoid spreading false information.

Source: @moi_qatar

Qatar issues statement on Al Udeid personnel movement amid regional tensions

The International Media Office of Qatar confirmed that recent movements involving personnel at Al Udeid Air Base are linked to current regional tensions. Authorities reaffirm that the safety and security of citizens and residents remain the top priority, with all necessary measures in place to protect critical infrastructure and facilities. Any new developments will be shared through official channels.

Source: Qatar’s International Media Office

Spain vs Egypt Friendly Match in Qatar on March 30, 2026 at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium

The Spanish national team will face Egypt in an international friendly on March 30 in Qatar. The match will kick off at 6 pm (Spanish time) and 8 pm (Doha time) at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium. The fixture comes just three days after Spain’s Finalissima showdown with Argentina, which will also be staged in Qatar at the Lusail Stadium.

The two teams have met only once before, on June 3, 2006, at the Martínez Valero Stadium in Elche. Spain emerged victorious on that occasion with a 2–0 win, with goals from Raúl and Reyes.

Ticket information will be announced soon.

Event Details:


Location: Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan
Date: 30 March 2026 – 30 March 2026
Time: 08:00 pm – 09:30 pm

Spanish Super Cup 2027 Likely Headed to Qatar as RFEF Confirms Talks After Saudi Exit

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The Spanish Super Cup could be heading to Qatar in 2027 after the Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed active negotiations with the country to host the prestigious tournament.

RFEF President Rafael Louzán revealed the update during an interview with Spanish sports radio show Tiempo de Juego, stating that the competition will leave Saudi Arabia due to the Asian Cup being hosted there during the same period.

Saudi Arabia is set to stage the AFC Asian Cup from January 7 to February 6, 2027, making it impossible to host the Spanish Super Cup during its usual January window. As a result, Qatar has emerged as the leading alternative venue.

RFEF Confirms Talks With Qatar

Louzán confirmed that discussions are already underway with Qatari authorities and that Qatar would assume the financial responsibility of hosting the tournament.

He said the federation currently has a strong commercial agreement with Saudi Arabia that runs until 2029, but a one year exception is required due to the Asian Cup.

He also indicated that the RFEF is considering shifting the tournament to the first week of February to avoid congested January schedules.

Qatar Strengthens Position as Global Football Hub

If confirmed, the Spanish Super Cup would add to Qatar’s growing portfolio of elite international football events. Doha is already set to host the Finalissima between Spain and Argentina at Lusail Stadium on March 27, followed by an international friendly between Spain and Egypt at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium on March 30.

Qatar previously hosted the FIFA World Cup 2022 and continues to attract major global sporting events, positioning itself as a leading destination for international football.

Super Cup Format Remains Unchanged

Louzán also addressed criticism over the current Super Cup and Copa del Rey formats, acknowledging concerns over the draw system but confirming that the federation has no immediate plans to change the structure.

He added that sponsors remain highly satisfied with the current tournament format, which features Spain’s top clubs in a high profile mini tournament.

Ticket Prices and FIFA Talks

On the issue of rising FIFA ticket prices for upcoming World Cup matches, with some exceeding $200, Louzán confirmed that the RFEF has formally requested a review of pricing and plans to continue discussions with FIFA alongside other national federations.

Qatar Poised to Host Another Global Football Spectacle

With negotiations progressing smoothly, Qatar appears well positioned to host the Spanish Super Cup in 2027, offering world class stadiums, proven infrastructure and strong commercial backing.

A final decision is expected in the coming months as the RFEF works to finalize logistics and scheduling for one of Spain’s most high profile football competitions.

Temporary road closure: Corniche Road will be closed from 10:00 pm on January 15, 2026 to 2:00 pm on January 16, 2026

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On the occasion of the Doha Marathon by ooredoo 2026, Doha Corniche will be closed to traffic from 10:00 PM on Thursday, 15 January 2026, until 2:00 PM on Friday, 16 January 2026. Motorists are kindly requested to take alternative routes and follow directional signs. Drive safely.

Source – Moi_qatar