The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has deployed drone technology to disperse native wild plant seeds in Rawdat Umm Al Sahnat, marking a significant step in Qatar’s efforts to combat desertification and restore natural ecosystems.
Organised by the Wildlife Development Department, the field initiative used GPS-guided drones equipped with smart spraying systems to sow around 5,000 locally sourced seeds. The selected species included wild ziziphus, ghaf, acacia ehrenbergiana (Salam), and acacia tortilis (Samr), all vital to sustaining local biodiversity.
The seeds were treated and coated with biodegradable organic material to protect them and improve germination rates. Distribution was carried out with high precision to ensure even coverage across the meadow.
Assistant Director of the Wildlife Development Department, Dr Dhafi Heedan, said the initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to rehabilitate degraded rangelands using innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. He highlighted drones and artificial intelligence as key tools in accelerating cultivation and restoring ecological balance.
QDrone Director Hamad Rashid Al Ward noted that the project was implemented on a voluntary basis, following field studies to determine optimal locations and timing during the rainy season, increasing the chances of successful vegetation growth.
The initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Action Plan to Combat Desertification, reinforcing Qatar’s commitment to environmental innovation and sustainability.
Planning New Year’s Eve 2026 in Doha means choosing between world-class parties, iconic fireworks, cultural celebrations, and unforgettable desert experiences. From high-energy music events to family-friendly festivities and romantic nights under the stars, New Year 2026 in Qatar offers something for every kind of celebration.
Whether you are wondering does Qatar celebrate New Year, looking for Doha New Year fireworks 2026, or searching for live New Year events in Qatar, this guide covers the best ways to welcome 2026.
Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Qatar
Mayfair Presents x Zamna Live in Qatar
One of the most talked-about New Year’s Eve parties in Doha, Mayfair Presents x Zamna Live in Qatar delivers a global party atmosphere with deep electronic sounds, immersive visuals, and a powerful midnight countdown. Hosted at Doha Golf Club, this event is ideal for those seeking a premium, music-driven NYE experience.
For fans of Bollywood and Desi beats, Desi-Nation NYE 2026 by Urban Desi brings colour, energy, and familiar hits to New Year’s Eve celebrations in Qatar. Expect upbeat music, a lively crowd, and a festive countdown perfect for groups and friends.
If you are searching for free New Year fireworks in Qatar, Lusail is the place to be. Lusail Boulevard transforms into a massive celebration zone with live entertainment, family-friendly spaces, and a spectacular midnight fireworks display.
This is one of the most popular answers to where to watch New Year fireworks in Doha, offering a vibrant atmosphere without the need for a ticketed party.
Brouq Qatar
Running throughout the festive season, Brouq Qatar offers cultural activities, entertainment, and seasonal experiences that are perfect for relaxed year-end exploring. Ideal if you want to ease into the New Year rather than party late into the night.
A top choice for families, Lusail Winter Wonderland brings rides, games, and festive winter vibes to Doha. It’s perfect for celebrating earlier in the evening or enjoying New Year’s Eve in Doha with kids.
Experience a new rhythm at 1.1, a one-night, high-production house music experience set at Mondrian Doha. Hosted at Patio Walima by Doha Gossip, the night is guided by SOLTO, whose warm, percussive house sound blends emotion and movement into a hypnotic journey. Joined by SANAZ, the experience unfolds with intention, focusing on flow, connection, and atmosphere rather than rush. This is not a continuation of the night before. It is a reset. A shared frequency where music leads, energy aligns, and the dancefloor becomes a fresh start.
From Doha New Year fireworks 2026 and global music events to desert adventures and family-friendly attractions, New Year 2026 in Qatar offers one of the most diverse celebrations in the region. Whether you want to dance into the new year or enjoy a calm, cultural countdown, Doha has the perfect way to welcome 2026.
As 2025 comes to a close, Doha’s hotels are ready to welcome the New Year with unforgettable dinners, lively entertainment, and festive celebrations that promise to make the first night of 2026 truly special.
Photo Credit: Opus, Park Hyatt Doha
Midnight in Paris – Opus, Park Hyatt Doha
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 7:00 pm – 12:30 am
Price: QAR 255 per person
Experience: Ring in the New Year with a Paris-inspired buffet dinner featuring exquisite flavors, live entertainment, and a chic ambience at Opus.
Photo Credit: Elements, Four Seasons Hotel Doha
New Year’s Eve Masquerade Dinner – Elements, Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 7:00 pm – 12:30 am
Price:
Regular Package: QAR 750
Enhanced Package: QAR 1200
Kids Package (5–11 years): QAR 375
Experience: An elegant masquerade evening blending Mediterranean charm with Arabian mystery. Enjoy gourmet dining and a captivating atmosphere.
Photo Credit: Four Seasons Resort & Residences at The Pearl-Qatar
New Year’s Eve Celebration – Chicago Rare, Four Seasons Resort & Residences at The Pearl-Qatar
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am
Price:
Regular Package: QAR 699
Enhanced Package: QAR 999
Experience: Indulge in a celebratory 5-course menu with seasonal favorites, accompanied by live band entertainment.
Photo Credit: Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail
Sambazonia Party – Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 8:00 pm – 1:00 am
Price:
Restaurant: Adults QAR 850 | Kids QAR 350
Beach Club: Adults QAR 650
Experience: A Brazilian Amazonia-themed night with a live DJ, house and Afro-house beats, disco remixes, saxophone, and percussion. Dance the night away in vibrant style.
Photo Credit: iStock by Getty Images
New Year’s Eve at The Quarter – Swissotel Doha
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 8:00 pm – 2:00 am
Price:
Per Person: QAR 320
Per Couple: QAR 600 (includes one glass of non-alcoholic sparkling grape)
Experience: Gourmet dining, live entertainment, and stunning Corniche views make this a perfect start to 2026.
Photo Credit: Waldorf Astoria Doha Westbay
Times Square Black & Gold – The Cortland Bar, Waldorf Astoria Doha Westbay
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 10:00 pm – 2:00 am
Price: QAR 499 per person
Experience: Celebrate in urban style with an open bar, eight signature bites, hip-hop and house DJ beats, and a sparkling midnight toast.
Photo Credit: The Ritz-Carlton Doha
Midnight in the City of Lights – AlWosail Ballroom, The Ritz-Carlton Doha
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 8:00 pm onwards
Price:
Soft Package: QAR 475
Enhanced Package: QAR 695
Kids Package: QAR 195
Experience: A night of Parisian elegance with live band and DJ performances, gourmet cuisine, and a glamorous gala atmosphere.
Photo Credit: Idil Aras
A Feast to Remember – The Square, InterContinental Doha The City
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 8:00 pm – 1:00 am
Price: QAR 350 per person (Open Buffet)
Experience: Celebrate with a lavish buffet, live entertainment, and a joyful ambience to welcome 2026. Enhanced beverage packages are available upon request.
Photo Credit: Photo Credit: iStock by Getty Images
A Sparkling Start to 2026 – Brasserie De La Mer, Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North
Date & Time: 31 December 2025, 7:30 pm onwards
Experience: Start the New Year with a sparkling evening at the elegant Brasserie De La Mer, combining fine dining and a festive atmosphere.
DIMDEX 2026, the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference, returns to Doha from 19–22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, the event brings together global defence leaders, decision-makers, and innovators to showcase cutting-edge maritime, land, air, and cyber defence technologies shaping the future of global security.
DIMDEX 2026
Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference
Venue: Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), Doha, Qatar
Dates: 19–22 January 2026
Theme: A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow
Event Overview: DIMDEX 2026 is one of the world’s leading maritime defence and security exhibitions, serving as a global platform for defence innovation, strategic dialogue, and international collaboration. Organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, the ninth edition will host senior military officials, government delegations, defence manufacturers, and industry experts from around the world.
Key Highlights:
Global showcase of maritime, land, air, and cyber defence systems
High-level international delegations and decision-makers
Defence technology, cybersecurity, and AI innovations
Strategic conferences and expert-led discussions
Live signing of MoUs and defence agreements
Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC)
Visiting international naval warships at Hamad Port
Audience: Defence professionals, government officials, industry leaders, investors
The State of Qatar has issued a strong condemnation of the terrorist bombing that targeted a mosque in Homs, Syria, resulting in fatalities and injuries. The statement reaffirms Qatar’s rejection of terrorism and violence, its support for Syria’s security efforts, and its firm stance against attacks on places of worship.
Key Highlights:
Strong condemnation of the mosque bombing in Homs
Full solidarity with the Syrian government and people
Firm rejection of terrorism and violence in all forms
Condolences extended to victims’ families and wishes for recovery
Event Overview: The HH The Father Amir Equestrian Prix marks the official start of the 2025 equestrian season in Qatar. As the first leg of the Doha Equestrian Tour, the event brings together more than 240 international riders competing at the highest level, with a total prize purse exceeding €3.3 million. Alongside elite competition, visitors can enjoy entertainment activities for all ages, reflecting Qatar’s sporting excellence and hospitality.
Key Highlights:
Abdullah Al-Qashouti, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Championship
Opening leg of the Doha Equestrian Tour 2025
240+ international riders
€3.3 million total prize pool
World-class showjumping competition
Family-friendly entertainment and activities
Ticket Information:
General Admission from QR50
VIP Tent and VIP Lounge hospitality packages available
Benefits include premium seating, valet parking, catering, and exclusive access
The World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship Qatar 2025 has officially begun in Doha, bringing together more than 400 elite players from 70 countries to compete for four world titles and a €1 million prize pool. Hosted at Qatar University Sports and Events Complex, the tournament runs from December 25 to 31, featuring the world’s top chess stars including Magnus Carlsen, alongside leading competitors in both open and women’s rapid and blitz categories.
Qatar University Sports and Events Complex | Doha, Qatar
Dates: December 25–31, 2025
Event Overview: The World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the global chess calendar. Organised by FIDE, the event features four world titles across rapid and blitz formats in both open and women’s categories, with a total prize pool exceeding €1 million.
Key Highlights:
400+ players from 70+ countries
World titles in Rapid and Blitz (Open & Women’s)
Participation from reigning world champions and elite grandmasters
Cultural opening ceremony celebrating Qatari heritage
International finale to the global chess season
Venue: Qatar University Sports and Events Complex, Doha
The Qatar Meteorology Department announced on 25 December 2025 that cloudy conditions are expected to increase across the country over the weekend and continue until Monday, 29 December 2025.
According to the forecast, there is a chance of light rain in some areas at different times, as cloud cover builds during this period. Weather conditions may vary between regions, with intermittent clouds and brief rainfall possible.
Residents are advised to stay updated with official weather alerts and forecasts issued by the Qatar Meteorology Department, especially when planning outdoor activities.
Qatari weightlifter Ouisal Ikhlef delivered an outstanding performance, winning nine gold medals at the 2025 Qatar International Weightlifting Cup, alongside the Arab and West Asian Weightlifting Championships.
Competing in the +86kg category, Ikhlef claimed three gold medals in each championship, lifting 116kg in the snatch, 161kg in the clean and jerk, and a 277kg total. Her clean and jerk lift also set a new personal record.
The championships, organised by the Qatar Weightlifting Federation, brought together top athletes from across the region and beyond. Ikhlef topped competitors from Thailand, South Korea, Algeria, and Egypt.
Speaking after her win, Ikhlef described the achievement as a major milestone and credited the strong support of the federation and the Qatar Olympic Committee. She confirmed her focus on future competitions and continuing to raise Qatar’s profile on the international weightlifting stage.
Lusail Boulevard is set to become one of Qatar’s biggest New Year destinations as it hosts a spectacular year-end celebration on Wednesday, December 31. Designed to welcome thousands of spectators, the event promises a vibrant mix of entertainment, visuals, and live performances to bid farewell to 2025 in style.
Festivities will begin at 6:00 pm and continue until 2:00 am on January 1, 2026, transforming the boulevard into a high-energy celebration zone.
Throughout the evening, visitors can enjoy live musical performances by singers and DJs, alongside captivating showcases by sand artists and acrobatic performers. Adding to the immersive experience, the boulevard’s iconic towers will light up with a stunning 3D mapping and laser show, creating a dramatic visual spectacle across the skyline.
As midnight approaches, the celebration will build toward a grand countdown, followed by fireworks and pyrodrones, marking the arrival of the New Year with a breathtaking display in the sky above Lusail.
With extended festivities, diverse entertainment, and a show-stopping midnight celebration, Lusail Boulevard’s New Year’s Eve event is set to be one of the top places to ring in 2026 in Qatar.
