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Where to Spend Your Fridays in Doha: A Local’s Guide to the Best Picnic Spots

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Where to Spend Your Fridays in Doha: A Local’s Guide to the Best Picnic Spots

Friday in Doha hits different. The morning is quiet, the malls are closed till after prayers, and the city slows down just enough for you to remember why you actually like living here. The best way to spend it? Pack a basket, grab a karak on the way, and head to a park.

These are six picnic spots in Doha that locals genuinely use. Not tourist lists. Not Pinterest fantasies. The ones you actually drive to on a Friday afternoon with your people.

1. 5/6 Park

5/6 Park, Onaiza

The newer kid on the block and easily the most photogenic. 5/6 Park sits next to the Al Wahda Arches and is built around a giant plant maze shaped like the map of Qatar. There is a 5-metre observatory hill that gives you a full view of the Doha skyline, perfect for golden hour photos. The maze is lit up at night, the walls have murals by Qatari artists, and there is a 1.4 km jogging track if you actually want to move.

Best for: couples, Instagram pages, sunset hangs Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: Al Qassar (Red Line)

2. Al Bidda Park, Corniche

Al Bidda Park, Corniche

The OG. If you have been in Doha longer than six months, you have already had a barbecue here. Al Bidda is the largest park in central Doha, it is pet friendly, and it has bookable BBQ pits and gazebos. The waterfront views of West Bay are unmatched, especially after Asr prayer when the breeze finally shows up.

Best for: big families, group BBQs, dog walks Open: 4 AM to 11:50 PM, free entry Metro: Al Bidda (Interchange station)

3. Aspire Park, Aspire Zone

Aspire Park, Aspire Zone

The biggest park in the city and probably the most popular. Aspire has the artificial lake, the paddle boats, the view of The Torch, and roughly a hundred shaded picnic corners. It is the kind of place where you go for an hour and stay for four. Pro tip: park near the Villaggio side and walk in, the lake side gets crowded by 5 PM on Fridays.

Best for: families with kids, joggers, paddle boat dates Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: Al Aziziyah (Gold Line), then a short taxi

4. Crescent Park (North Hills), Lusail

Aspire Park, Aspire Zone

The quieter pick. Crescent Park in Lusail spans 275,000 square metres and locals know it as the North Hills park area. It has forested zones, kids’ playgrounds, and TeaTime Premium for your karak fix. It is far enough from central Doha that you actually get peace, but close enough to make it a real Friday option. If you want a picnic without the Aspire crowd, this is it.

Best for: quiet picnics, Lusail residents, slow afternoons Open: 24/7, free entry Best access: Lusail Metro (Red Line), then short drive

5. MIA Park, Corniche

MIA Park, Corniche

The view park. Sitting right behind the Museum of Islamic Art, MIA Park gives you the most postcard-ready picnic spot in Qatar. West Bay across the water, traditional dhows lined up on the corniche, Richard Serra’s “7” sculpture standing tall at the end of the pier. Park Café at the far end is perfect for an iced coffee, and on Fridays the MIA Park Bazaar usually pops up with food trucks and small vendors.

Best for: skyline photos, first-time visitors, slow sunset walks Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: National Museum (Gold Line)

6. Umm Al Seneem Park, Al Rayyan

MIA Park, Corniche

Save this one for summer because it is the only park in the world with a Guinness World Record for the longest outdoor air-conditioned jogging track. Yes, you read that right. 1,143 metres of cooled outdoor walkway, available from 3 PM to 11 PM, plus a reflexology path with cobblestones you can walk barefoot on. It is family friendly, has kids’ zones split by age group, and food kiosks scattered around. If you have been avoiding outdoor plans because of the heat, this is your park.

Best for: summer Fridays, joggers, families with little kids Open: AC track 3 PM to 11 PM, free entry Location: Wadi Al Theebiya Street, Al Rayyan

A Few Friday Picnic Tips From Someone Who Lives Here

Pack water. Way more than you think you need.

Bring a mat. The grass is often wet from the sprinklers, especially in the cooler months.

Go after Asr. Most parks fill up around 4 to 5 PM but the light is better and the heat has dropped.

Reserve BBQ pits in advance, especially at Al Bidda. Walk-ins on Friday will leave you grilling on disappointment.

Check the weather. Even in winter, the wind can flip your samosas.

Friday is the one day Doha gives you back. Use it.

CBSE Class 12 Result 2026 Declared: Direct Link, DigiLocker Steps, and What It Means for Qatar Students

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CBSE Class 12 Result 2026 Declared: Direct Link, DigiLocker Steps, and What It Means for Qatar Students

The wait is over. CBSE declared the Class 12 Result 2026 today, 13 May 2026, and lakhs of students across India and the Gulf are finally refreshing the right page instead of the wrong one.

Here is what you actually need to know, and where to check.

CBSE 12th Result 2026 at a Glance

The overall pass percentage this year is 85.20%, which is about 3.19 percentage points lower than last year. Out of 17,68,968 students who appeared, 15,07,109 cleared the exam.

Girls have done it again. The girls’ pass percentage stands at 88.86%, while boys came in at 82.13%. That is a gap of nearly 6.73 percentage points.

Direct Links to Check CBSE Class 12 Result 2026

You can check your result on any of these official portals. If one is slow, switch to another. The traffic in the first hour is brutal.

Keep your roll number, school number, admit card ID, and date of birth ready before you click. You will not get past the login screen without them.

How to Download Your Marksheet on DigiLocker

DigiLocker handles the load better than the main CBSE portal on result day. The marksheet you download here is digitally signed and accepted by colleges and universities for provisional admission.

  1. Open digilocker.gov.in or the DigiLocker app
  2. Sign in using your Aadhaar number or mobile number
  3. Search for CBSE under issued documents
  4. Select Class XII Marksheet cum Passing Certificate 2026
  5. Download and save it

What This Means for Students in Qatar

This is the part most national coverage skips, but Doha cares about it for a reason.

Qatar has one of the largest CBSE student communities outside India. Schools like Birla Public School Doha, MES Indian School, Bhavans Public School, DPS Modern Indian School, Shantiniketan Indian School, Rajagiri Public School, and Ideal Indian School all follow the CBSE curriculum. Hundreds of Class 12 students in Doha sat for the same March exams as their counterparts in Delhi, Trivandrum, and Mumbai, and they are checking the same portal tonight.

The result also lands during CUET UG 2026 season. The National Testing Agency is running the entrance exam from 11 to 31 May 2026, and Doha is one of only 14 international centres hosting it. That means Class 12 students based in Qatar can sit for their Indian university entrance test without flying out, which makes the next two weeks unusually packed for families here.

For Indian expat parents in Qatar, the timeline matters. Most Indian universities open admission rounds within 10 to 14 days of result declaration. The DigiLocker marksheet is the document you will need for provisional applications, since original certificates take longer to reach foreign schools.

What Comes Next

If you cleared with the marks you wanted, the real work starts now. College shortlists, CUET counselling, application deadlines. If you did not get the result you expected, CBSE allows verification of marks, re-evaluation, and a compartment exam in July for students who fell short in one subject.

Either way, the score is one chapter. What you do in the next two weeks usually matters more than the number on the page.

Result links again, in one place: results.cbse.nic.in | cbse.gov.in | digilocker.gov.in | UMANG App

Pilates in the Aquarium: Ladies-Only Class Launches at Old Doha Port from June 6

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Pilates in the Aquarium: Ladies-Only Class Launches at Old Doha Port from June 6

If you’ve been looking for a Pilates class in Doha that feels less like a gym and more like a moment, this one is for you.

Old Doha Port and Fit Island are launching Pilates in the Aquarium, a ladies-only weekly class set inside the aquarium at City Gallery, starting Friday, June 6.

What to expect from Pilates in the Aquarium

The sessions are designed as a one-of-a-kind wellness experience, blending mindful movement with the calm, immersive setting of the Old Doha Port aquarium. Think slow stretches, controlled breathing, and a wall of fish gliding past you while you flow through your practice.

It is open to women only, making it a comfortable space for ladies in Doha looking for a private, peaceful workout away from mixed gyms.

Class details

Here is everything you need to know before booking:

  • Location: City Gallery, The Terminal, Old Doha Port
  • Start date: Weekly from Friday, 6 June 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM
  • Price: 150 QAR
  • Open to: Ladies only
  • Hosted by: Fit Island in collaboration with Old Doha Port

How to register for Pilates in the Aquarium

You can sign up in two ways:

  1. Through the FIT ISLAND app
  2. By calling or messaging +974 5100 0570

Spots are likely to fill up quickly given the unique setting, so booking in advance is recommended.

Why this matters for Doha’s wellness scene

Old Doha Port has been steadily building its profile as a lifestyle and cultural destination, and this collaboration with Fit Island adds another reason to visit. Ladies-only fitness offerings are still limited in Doha, especially in scenic, non-gym settings, which makes this launch worth bookmarking.

For residents and expats searching for something different from the usual studio class, a Pilates session surrounded by marine life inside one of Doha’s most photographed venues is about as unique as it gets.

Qatar Airways to Fly to Helsinki and Tokyo Haneda Again from July 2026

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Qatar Airways to Fly to Helsinki and Tokyo Haneda Again from July 2026

Qatar Airways is bringing back two major international routes this summer, with flights to Helsinki, Finland, and Tokyo Haneda, Japan resuming from July 15, 2026.

Helsinki flights return with daily service by August

The national carrier will launch four weekly flights to Helsinki from July 15, scaling up to seven weekly flights from August 1.

The route is expected to benefit travellers connecting from Australia, Kenya, and Southeast Asia through Doha, tapping into Qatar Airways’ global network.

Tokyo Haneda joins existing Narita service

Qatar Airways is also returning to Tokyo Haneda (HND) with four weekly flights from July 15, complementing its existing service to Tokyo Narita (NRT).

The Haneda route will increase to daily flights from August 1, making onward transfers easier for travellers from Europe and the Middle East heading into Japan.

Part of Qatar Airways’ wider summer expansion

The new routes are part of Qatar Airways’ broader push to rebuild its global network, with the airline set to cover over 160 destinations across six continents this summer.

Eid Al-Adha 2026 in Qatar Expected to Start on May 27, Says Qatar Calendar House

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Eid Al-Adha 2026 in Qatar Expected to Start on May 27, Says Qatar Calendar House

Qatar Calendar House has announced that Monday, May 18 is expected to mark the start of Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 AH, with Eid Al Adha 2026 forecast to begin on Wednesday, May 27, according to astronomical calculations.

When does Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 start?

Dhu Al Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the holiest periods in Islam. It is the month during which Muslims perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Executive Director of Qatar Calendar House, Dr Faisal Al Ansari, said specialists had conducted precise astronomical calculations to determine the dates.

The crescent moon marking the start of Dhu Al Hijjah will be born late on Saturday at 11:02pm Doha time (8:02pm GMT).

Why the crescent cannot be sighted on Saturday

Dr Al Ansari explained that sighting the crescent on Saturday evening will be “impossible” in Qatar and across the Arab and Islamic world, because the moon will not yet have been born at the time of sunset.

Under the Islamic lunar calendar, the beginning and end of Hijri months are determined by the moon’s movement around the Earth, while the Gregorian calendar follows the Earth’s orbit around the sun.

Eid Al Adha 2026: What it marks

Eid Al Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is observed by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism, to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

Official Eid date still to be confirmed

The announcement provides an early astronomical indication of the timing of Eid Al Adha in Qatar. Official confirmation of the start of Dhu Al Hijjah and Eid dates is typically made by religious authorities following the moon-sighting process.

Source: QNA

Cargo Ship From Abu Dhabi Hit by Drone in Qatari Territorial Waters

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Cargo Ship From Abu Dhabi Hit by Drone in Qatari Territorial Waters

A commercial cargo vessel was struck by a drone in Qatar’s territorial waters on Sunday morning, the Qatari Ministry of Defense confirmed in an official statement. The ship was sailing northeast of Mesaieed Port, having arrived from Abu Dhabi, when the attack took place.

The strike caused a limited fire on board. No injuries were reported. The fire was brought under control quickly, and the vessel continued its journey toward Mesaieed Port. Authorities have taken the necessary measures and are coordinating closely with relevant agencies.

What the Ministry of Defense Said

The Ministry ended its statement with a prayer for the protection of Qatar, its Amir, its people, and all residents on its land.

In its statement, the Ministry of Defense said the cargo vessel was targeted while in Qatari territorial waters. The Ministry confirmed that the fire was contained, the crew was unharmed, and the ship reached Mesaieed Port safely.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry Condemns the Attack

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong condemnation of the targeting of the commercial cargo ship. In its statement, the Ministry called the attack a flagrant violation of the principle of freedom of navigation and a dangerous escalation that threatens the security of commercial maritime passages and vital supplies in the region.

The Ministry made it clear that targeting commercial and civilian ships, regardless of who is responsible, is a grave breach of international law. It added that such actions pose a direct threat to regional and international security and stability.

Qatar said it is following the developments closely and working with regional and international partners. The competent authorities will investigate the incident and determine responsibility. The statement also reiterated Qatar’s firm position that the security of maritime navigation and freedom of passage in international waterways must not be undermined under any circumstances.

Where the Attack Took Place

According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the bulk carrier reported being struck by an unknown projectile while sailing 23 nautical miles (43 kilometers) northeast of Doha. UKMTO confirmed the strike caused a small fire on board, which was extinguished, with no reported casualties. Vessels in the area have been advised to transit with caution while authorities investigate the source of the projectile.

A Wider Regional Backdrop

The attack on the cargo vessel comes during a tense period in the Gulf. Kuwait’s military also reported a drone attack on Sunday, without specifying where the drones came from. Both incidents have tested the month-old ceasefire in the Iran war, which the Trump administration says remains in effect.

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most important energy corridor, have remained high since strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February 2026. Several commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf have been hit in recent days, raising concerns across the shipping industry.

For Qatar, the targeting of a vessel in its own territorial waters marks a significant moment. The country has consistently called for de-escalation and emphasised the importance of protecting commercial shipping routes that serve the global economy.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the relevant authorities are investigating the circumstances of the attack and working to determine responsibility. The Ministry’s statement closed with a clear message: the security of maritime navigation is a fundamental pillar of regional and international stability, and it must be protected.

Residents and visitors across Qatar are being reassured that the situation is under control, the vessel reached port safely, and authorities continue to monitor the maritime environment closely.

  • Date of attack: Sunday, 10 May 2026
  • Location: Qatari territorial waters, northeast of Mesaieed Port (around 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha)
  • Vessel origin: Arrived from Abu Dhabi
  • Casualties: None reported
  • Damage: Limited fire, brought under control
  • Status: Vessel continued to Mesaieed Port

Top 10 must-visit beaches in Qatar this summer

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Top 10 must-visit beaches in Qatar this summer

As summer sets in, Qatar’s coastline offers a refreshing way to experience the country, where tranquil northern shores, vibrant city beaches and dramatic desert landscapes come together along the Arabian Gulf. Whether it is a quiet morning by the water, a family day out or an active beach escape, each destination offers a distinct experience shaped by its surroundings. The country offers a diverse mix of public and private beaches, catering to a wide range of preferences, from open-access natural shores to curated beachfront destinations.  

Nami Beach

Nami Beach, the latest addition to Qatar’s coastline located in the heart of Doha, offers a curated beachfront experience with cabanas, landscaped areas and dining options. It also features a dedicated ladies-only zone, providing a more private and comfortable setting for visitors.

974 Beach

974 Beach

Located near Stadium 974, this contemporary beach combines leisure with a lively atmosphere. With water sports including jet skiing and kayaking, as well as beach volleyball, football and dedicated activity zones, it offers a dynamic and interactive seaside experience.

West Bay Beach

West Bay Beach

Positioned in central Doha, West Bay Beach offers a convenient escape with views of the city skyline. As one of the few dog-friendly beaches, it is ideal for relaxed walks, swimming and casual time by the sea.

Sealine Beach

Sealine Beach

Situated in Mesaieed, Sealine Beach is a long-standing favourite, cherished by generations for its unique blend of desert and sea. Visitors can enjoy dune bashing and swimming in a dynamic, all-day beach and desert setting.

Inland Sea

Inland Sea

The Inland Sea, or Khor Al Adaid, features a rare landscape where desert dunes meet the sea. Recognised as a UNESCO-listed natural reserve, visitors can experience desert adventure and swimming, making it one of Qatar’s most immersive desert-to-sea adventure destinations.

Fuwairit Beach

Fuwairit Beach

Located along Qatar’s northeast coast, Fuwairit Beach is known for its soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. Home to the purpose-built Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, it offers world-class kitesurfing, water sports and beachfront leisure facilities, making it a key destination for active coastal experiences.

Al Maroona Beach

Al Maroona Beach

Al Maroona is known for its golden sands and shallow waters. Its untouched setting makes it ideal for swimming, picnics, camping and spotting marine life such as starfish and crabs along the shore.

Simaisma Beach

Simaisma Beach

Located north of Doha, Simaisma Beach is a family-friendly destination known for its calm, shallow waters. With shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, barbecue spots and open spaces for beach games, it offers a complete setting for relaxed family outings.

Zekreet Beach

Zekreet Beach

Located on Qatar’s west coast, Zekreet Beach is known for its dramatic limestone rock formations and remote desert setting. Popular for camping, windsurfing, it offers a secluded, off-the-grid coastal experience surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Dukhan Beach

Located on Qatar’s west coast, Dukhan Beach is known for its wide shoreline and calm, clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling along reef areas, fishing and camping, making it ideal for group outings and outdoor seaside experiences.

Dukhan Beach

Together, these beaches reflect the diversity of Qatar’s coastline, offering experiences that range from natural settings to well-developed urban destinations. Whether seeking relaxation, adventure or family-friendly outings, Qatar’s beaches continue to position the country as an accessible and compelling summer destination.

Beyond its coastline, Qatar offers an exceptional summer season filled with activities, events, attractions, offers and promotions under the Hala Summer programme and Kids Go Free offer. For more information, please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/summer

6 Things Happening in Doha This Week You Need to Know (May 10 to 16, 2026)

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6 Things Happening in Doha This Week You Need to Know (May 10 to 16, 2026)

The Amir Cup buzz has settled, but Doha is still very much alive this week. Between a water circus, a graphic art exhibition, a kid-friendly beach day, and a Lush bath bomb workshop you didn’t know existed, here’s everything happening in Qatar from May 10 to 16, 2026.

All booking links, locations, and Instagram handles below. Bookmark this one.

1. The Fontana Show at Hyatt Plaza

The Fontana Show at Hyatt Plaza

If you haven’t caught it yet, this is the last stretch. Cirque du Liban’s first travelling water circus in the Middle East combines aerialists, acrobatics, and a musical dancing fountain inside a purpose-built circus tent. It’s been the most photographed show in Doha for weeks, and tickets are still moving fast.

  • Running until: May 31, 2026
  • Location: Circus Tent, Hyatt Plaza
  • Tickets: QAR 95 (Green) to QAR 360 (Gold)
  • Booking: Platinumlist
  • Website: cirqueduliban.com

2. Lush Handmade Party Experience at Mall of Qatar

Lush Handmade Party Experience at Mall of Qatar

This one flies under the radar. Lush is now hosting in-store party experiences at its Mall of Qatar branch, where you actually make your own bath bombs, bubble bars, or face masks with a dedicated party host. Think bachelorette, birthday, or just a girls’ night that doesn’t involve a restaurant. Usually 1.5 hours per session, perfect for groups.

  • Running until: April 8, 2027
  • Location: Lush, Mall of Qatar (Rawdat Al Jahhaniya)
  • Booking: Walk in or contact the store directly via Instagram
  • Website: lush.qa
  • Instagram: @lushdoha | @lushmiddleeast

3. Kid’s Activity Day at West Bay Beach

Kid’s Activity Day at West Bay Beach

A daily open-air playground for the little ones, set right on the West Bay coastline. Entry includes the beach, kids’ play area, beach volleyball, football courts, and shaded dining. Honestly one of the best-value family days out in Doha right now, especially before the summer heat fully hits.

  • Running until: June 1, 2026
  • Location: West Bay Beach, Al Dafna
  • Time: 8:00 AM to midnight daily
  • Entry: QAR 30 weekdays, QAR 45 weekends (kids under 12 free)
  • Instagram: @westbaybeachqa

4. Contemporary Graphic Art Exhibition at Katara

Contemporary Graphic Art Exhibition at Katara

A group exhibition featuring artists from Qatar and across the Arab region, showcasing hand-printing techniques and works inspired by Gulf heritage. If you’ve been meaning to spend a slow afternoon with some art, this is a low-key, high-quality way to do it.

  • Running until: May 18, 2026
  • Location: Katara Cultural Village, Building 18, Hall 2
  • Time: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Entry: Free
  • Website: katara.net
  • Instagram: @kataraqatar

5. Tuesday Running Program at Mina Park

Tuesday Running Program at Mina Park

Fit Island Qatar’s three-month structured running program, every Tuesday evening at Mina Park’s waterfront. Built around pacing, consistency, and personal goals, so it’s more focused than a casual group run but less intense than a competitive club. Great for anyone trying to actually stick to a running habit.

  • Running until: June 30, 2026 (every Tuesday)
  • Location: Mina Park, behind The Terminal, Old Doha Port
  • Booking: WhatsApp +974 6000 5499
  • Instagram: @fit.island.qa

6. Lusail Karting at Lusail International Circuit

Lusail Karting at Lusail International Circuit

Drive on the same track that hosts Formula 1 and MotoGP. The 900m karting circuit runs 12-minute sessions in 270cc karts that hit 50 to 60 km/h. Online booking only, and weekend slots fill up days ahead.

  • Running until: November 30, 2026
  • Days: Wednesday to Saturday
  • Time: 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

Quick Picks for the Week

  • Family weekend? West Bay Beach in the day, Fontana Show after sunset.
  • Date night? Lush bath bomb workshop, then karting at Lusail.
  • Solo and creative? Katara graphic art exhibition, then Tuesday’s run at Mina Park.
  • Group plans? Lush Handmade Party. Genuinely underrated.

That’s your week. For more weekly roundups, things to do in Qatar, and Doha lifestyle guides, follow People and Qatar on Instagram @peopleandqatar.

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail announces a new seasonal afternoon tea at Peacock Alley, created in collaboration with the Qatari jewelry brand Gema by Arts & Gems.

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Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail announces a new seasonal afternoon tea at Peacock Alley, created in collaboration with the Qatari jewelry brand Gema by Arts & Gems.

Rooted in a strong connection to the local community while upholding international standards of luxury hospitality, the hotel continues to craft exclusive and thoughtfully curated guest experiences. Launching on 7th May and available for two months, this refined offering embodies that vision through a carefully designed concept.

Set within Peacock Alley, Doha’s signature space for timeless elegance and sophisticated social gatherings the afternoon tea has been curated by Pastry Chef Michele Stasi alongside Executive Sous-Chef David Jaram. Together, they bring creativity and precision to a menu shaped by storytelling through flavor and presentation.

The experience features an exquisite selection of handcrafted pastries inspired by Gema’s heritage and identity, including the chef’s signature Caviar Tiramisu, each piece designed with visual elegance and depth of flavor. A refined savory selection complements the offering, with highlights such as a delicate Parmesan velouté, adding warmth and balance to the experience.

Founded in 2022 by Qatari jeweler and entrepreneur Mariam Ali Al Khalaf, Gema is a distinguished multi-brand jewelry boutique and part of one of Qatar’s leading jewelry houses, built on a legacy of nearly 45 years in the industry.

Gema presents an exclusive selection of refined pieces from internationally acclaimed designers, each personally handpicked by Mariam Ali Al Khalaf. The brand was recognized as “Leading Retail Brand” at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025, reflecting its dedication to excellence and its commitment to delivering a sophisticated and elevated jewelry retail experience.

Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Mariam Ali Al Khalaf said:

“At Gema, we believe that the beauty of any experience lies in the feeling it creates. This collaboration is an opportunity to extend our vision beyond jewelry into a setting that celebrates elegance, discovery, and personal expression.”

Ms. Mariam Ali Al Khalaf

Building on the success of previous collaborations with David Webb and Swarovski, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail continues to elevate its guest experience through curated partnerships that celebrate local talent while maintaining its global standards of luxury.

8 Things Happening in Doha This Weekend You Need to Know About (May 7 to 9, 2026)

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8 Things Happening in Doha This Weekend You Need to Know About (May 7 to 9, 2026)

It’s a big weekend in Doha. The Amir Cup Final lands at Khalifa Stadium, the Qatar Philharmonic takes over Katara, and a few longer-running favourites like the Fontana water circus and Zinatha are still going strong.

Here’s everything happening in Qatar from May 7 to 9, 2026, with all the booking links, timings, and locations you need.

1. Amir Cup Final 2026: Al Sadd vs Al Gharafa

Amir Cup Final 2026: Al Sadd vs Al Gharafa

The biggest night in Qatari football. Al Sadd take on Al Gharafa in the 54th edition of the Amir Cup, with a fan zone, live entertainment, and a prize draw featuring cars, iPhones, travel packages and more. Tickets start at just QAR 10, so this is genuinely the most affordable big-stadium experience you’ll find this year.

  • Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
  • Time: Gates open 2:30 PM | Kick-off 5:30 PM
  • Location: Khalifa International Stadium, Aspire Zone
  • Tickets: QAR 10, QAR 30, QAR 50 (Accessibility QAR 10)
  • Booking: qfa.qa (delivered via the Road to Qatar app from May 7)
  • Instagram: @qfa | @roadtoqatar
  • Getting there: Doha Metro Gold Line to Sport City Station

2. Sound of Excellence at Katara Opera House

Sound of Excellence at Katara Opera House

The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra teams up with the Qatar Music Academy for a one-night-only concert featuring young soloists and the Qatar Youth Orchestra performing alongside professional musicians, conducted by Maestro David Navarro-Turres. A rare chance to hear Qatar’s emerging classical talent on the country’s most prestigious stage.

  • Date: Friday, May 8, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 PM onwards
  • Location: Katara Cultural Village, Opera House
  • Age: 6 years and above
  • Booking: Q-Tickets
  • Instagram: @qatarphilharmonic | @kataraqatar

3. Drawing for Adults at the Museum of Islamic Art

Drawing for Adults at the Museum of Islamic Art

If “learn to draw” has been on your list for a while, this is the nudge you need. A four-day workshop at MIA covering the basics of drawing, shading, and working with light and shadow, all under expert guidance. Beginners welcome.

  • Dates: May 10 to 13, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  • Location: Education Centre, Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)
  • Booking: mia.org.qa
  • Instagram: @miaqatar

4. The Fontana Show at Hyatt Plaza

The Fontana Show at Hyatt Plaza

Cirque du Liban’s first travelling water circus in the Middle East. Aerialists, acrobatics, and a musical dancing fountain inside a purpose-built circus tent. It’s the most photographed show in Doha right now, and very much worth the hype.

  • Running until: May 31, 2026
  • Location: Circus Tent, Hyatt Plaza
  • Tickets: QAR 95 (Green) to QAR 360 (Gold)
  • Booking: Platinumlist
  • Website: cirqueduliban.com

5. Zinatha 8th Edition at Al Hazm

Zinatha 8th Edition at Al Hazm

The Eid prep destination for fashion, beauty, bridal wear, and accessories from Arab and Khaleeji designers. Set inside the marble Galleria, it’s as much a shopping trip as it is an aesthetic one.

  • Running until: May 13, 2026
  • Location: Galleria Al Hazm, Al Markhiya Street
  • Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Entry: Free
  • Website: alhazm.com
  • Instagram: @alhazmqa

6. Tuesday Running Program at Mina Park

Tuesday Running Program at Mina Park

Fit Island Qatar’s three-month structured running program, every Tuesday evening. Built around pacing, consistency and personal goals, so it’s more focused than a casual group run but less intense than a competitive club. Mina Park’s waterfront makes a beautiful backdrop, especially at sunset.

  • Running until: June 30, 2026 (every Tuesday)
  • Location: Mina Park, behind The Terminal, Old Doha Port
  • Booking: WhatsApp +974 6000 5499
  • Instagram: @fit.island.qa

7. Lusail Karting at Lusail International Circuit

Lusail Karting at Lusail International Circuit

Drive on a track that hosts Formula 1 and MotoGP. The 900m karting circuit runs 12-minute sessions in 270cc karts that hit 50 to 60 km/h. Online booking only and weekend slots fill up days ahead.

  • Running until: November 30, 2026
  • Days: Wednesday to Saturday
  • Time: 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

8. Thai Food Festival at Saffron, Banyan Tree Doha

Thai Food Festival at Saffron, Banyan Tree Doha

Last few days to catch this. Part of the citywide ‘Together at the Table: Thailand & Qatar’ celebration, Saffron sits on the 24th floor with city views and a Thai menu that’s worth the trip up alone.

  • Running until: 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 Picks for the Weekend

  • Saturday night football fan? Amir Cup Final, hands down.
  • Date night? Sound of Excellence, then dinner at Saffron.
  • Family weekend? Fontana Show on Friday, karting on Saturday.
  • Solo and creative? MIA’s drawing workshop, then a long walk through Zinatha.

That’s your full weekend, sorted. For more weekly roundups, things to do in Qatar, and Doha lifestyle guides, follow People and Qatar on Instagram @peopleandqatar.

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