The Doha International Music and Marching Festival (Doha Tattoo) is set to begin this week, residents and visitors can now secure their tickets ahead for the four-day programme taking place on 16, 17, 19 and 20 December 2025 at Katara Cultural Village.
This edition will bring together leading international and Qatari musical ensembles for four evenings of large-scale marching and musical showcases, accompanied by fireworks and drone displays that will illuminate the sky each night. The festival’s programme features distinguished bands from seven countries including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, The Republic of Turkey, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Sultanate of Oman, The Republic of Kazakhstan, and the State of Qatar.
The participating line-up includes the Irish Guards and the Royal Air Force Music Services from the United Kingdom, the United States Air Force Honor Guard, the Ottoman Mehter Band from Turkey, the Jordanian Armed Forces Band, the Royal Guard of Oman Band, and the Central Military Band of the Kazakh Ministry of Defence. The festival will also feature notable Qatari participation from musical units representing the Ministries of Defence and Interior, the Amiri Guard, the Ministry of Culture and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
The programme also includes The Village, positioned adjacent to the festival venue. The Village offers a family-friendly space featuring Qatar Calendar, F&B providers, alongside dedicated kiosks for the Police Academy, Lekhwiya, Civil Defense, merchandise, Vodafone, and ticketing.
The area also includes a Ministry of Culture tent and shaded seating with tables and umbrellas. Visitors can also enjoy a varied entertainment line-up including neon stilt walkers, jugglers, local musicians, caricature artists, calligraphers, live sketch artists, face painting, glitter tattoos for children, and balloon twisting, creating an engaging atmosphere for families and guests throughout the festival period.
Tickets are available to the public through https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa/dohatatoo offered at accessible rates to encourage wide participation. Tickets are available in three categories: QAR 15, QAR 30, and QAR 100.For further information and the latest announcements about the festival, please visit the official website: www.dohatattoo.qa/
Qatar’s first-ever waterfront polo experience debuts with world-class competition, cultural showcases, and the historic appearance of Qatar’s first polo players
In an unforgettable start to the inaugural edition of Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025, the first tournament trophies, AlMarsa Ladies Cup and the Years of Culture Championship Cup 2025, were presented to the winning teams at Old Doha Port, marking a landmark moment for this first-of-its-kind polo event in Qatar. The ceremony crowned an action-packed opening day defined by competitive spirit, cultural authenticity, and vibrant community engagement.
Hosted by Qatar Polo Club, with the support of The Social & Sport Contribution Fund DAAM, and presented by Qatar Calendar, Polo Almarsa Qatar 2025 continues to unite sport, heritage, lifestyle, and culture in a setting that reflects the elegance and tradition of polo. The event is driven by the Strategic Cultural Partnership with Years of Culture, this year celebrating Argentina and Chile.
The atmosphere was electric as guests, partners, celebrities, and polo enthusiasts gathered along the waterfront to witness a day where sport, culture, fashion, and community came together in perfect harmony.
The tournament delivered a series of electrifying results. Team Buenos Aires – Saleh Al Marri, Milo Mac Donough, and polo icon Pablo Mac Donough – clinched the Years of Culture Championship Cup, presented by Sheikh Nawaf Bin Nasser Al Thani. Meanwhile, Ashraf Abuissa, Chairman of QPC, awarded the AlMarsa Ladies Cup to Team Lusail, represented by Elizabeth Clarkin, Lucia Mier Portillo, and world champion Nina Clarkin.
A defining highlight of the day was the debut of Qatar’s first-ever polo players, whose participation signaled a new era for the nation’s equestrian ambitions. Their appearance on the field drew powerful emotional resonance, marking a significant milestone in Qatar’s sporting journey and inspiring a new generation of local polo talent.
Beyond the competition, Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025 delivered a waterfront atmosphere infused with energy, elegance, and creative expression. Guests arrived in vibrant colours and equestrian-inspired chic, with glamour on full display as the lively Fashions on the Field competition added flair and personality throughout the venue. The event struck a unique balance between luxury and cultural authenticity, bringing Doha’s creative scene to life against the distinctive backdrop of Old Doha Port.
Spectators moved seamlessly between the Polo Village, hospitality lounges, and cultural activations, enjoying curated retail experiences, live entertainment, and immersive heritage showcases.
The Heritage Show stood out as a crowd favourite, honouring Qatar’s equestrian legacy and forging a meaningful link between modern polo and the nation’s deep-rooted traditions.
The foundations of Polo AlMarsa 2025 were strengthened by partners who pledged their support from the very outset including Qatar Polo Club as the Official host, The Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM) as Supporting Partner, the Years of Culture initiative as the Strategic Cultural Partner, Qatar Calendar as Presenting Partner, Old Doha Port as Official Strategic Venue Partner, QIC as Official Insurance Partner, Genesis as Official Automotive Partner, Katara as Official Logistics Support Partner, Aspetar as Official Medical Partner, Ooredoo as Official Telecom Partner, Hurlingham Polo 1875 as Official Retail Partner, Mjhar News as Official News Partner, Qatar Living as Official Digital and Lifestyle Media Partner, I love Qatar as Official Multimedia Partner, Saheel Production as Official Media Partner, Arsan as Official Arena Advisor, Bakertilly as Official Consulting Partner, Plaza Hollandi as Official Floral Supplier, The Look Company as Official Branding Partner, Equine Veterinary Medical Center as Official Equine Veterinary Partner, Beverly Hills Polo Club as Official Fragrance Partner, Gold Apple as Official Beauty Supplier, and finally MUSE as official organizer.
Collaboration reinforces talabat’s commitment to supporting riders with practical tools for daily interactions
talabat, the leading on-demand delivery platform in the MENA region, has partnered with British Council Qatar to deliver a series of soft skills and foundational English Communication trainings designed to support riders with practical tools that help build confidence, strengthen communication, and enhance their overall work experience.
Hosted at talabat’s headquarters, over four engaging sessions equipped 150+ riders with essential language tools and practical communication skills built around real delivery scenarios.
Francisco Miguel de Sousa, Managing Director at talabat Qatar, said:
‘At talabat, investing in people’s growth is what we do. This partnership with the British Council allows us to support riders with skills that contribute to their confidence, safety, and daily experience on the road. Their commitment to learning and growth inspires us every day, and we look forward to continuing initiatives that empower them personally and professionally.’
Dr. Waseem Kotoub, Country Director, British Council Qatar, commented:
‘This collaboration reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering individuals with essential skills that transform lives. By supporting riders in their literacy journey, we are not only enhancing communication but also opening doors to greater opportunities, personal growth and community engagement. At the British Council, we believe that education is the cornerstone of progress, and partnerships like this bring that vision to life.’
The collaboration brought together British Council trainers who tailored the content to real life use cases riders encounter throughout their shifts. The training included confidence building exercises to help riders feel more prepared during peak hours and high-pressure moments. Each session emphasised practical communication, focusing on vocabulary commonly used in delivery settings, how to navigate conversations with customers and how to respond calmly and clearly to unexpected situations. The sessions were designed to be hands-on, relevant and accessible.
British Council trainers Michelle Wandrag, Aneesha Kooshkaki and Kashmir Singh Sajwan facilitated the sessions and shared:
‘Collaborating with talabat on rider training allowed us to turn real delivery scenarios into practical language and soft skills tools. The riders’ openness and commitment stood out, and we’re confident these skills will support safer, clearer, and more positive interactions with customers and vendors.’
This initiative forms part of talabat’s broader effort to invest in rider development, safety and wellbeing. For the British Council, the programme reinforces its role as a global leader in English language learning, vocational skills development and inclusive education, providing individuals with the abilities they need to thrive in a changing world.
Both organisations intend to explore future opportunities to scale this model, ensuring more riders in Qatar benefit from similar development programmes.
Customers can download the talabat app via the iOS App Store, Google Play Store or Huawei App Gallery.
Qatar is set to host one of its biggest electronic music events as the 25N 51E Music Festival enters its highly anticipated second phase at 974 Stadium, Doha. Taking place on Friday, January 30, 2026, this one night festival transforms the iconic waterfront stadium into a multi stage electronic music destination with world class production and a global DJ lineup.
Known as Qatar’s premier electronic music experience, 25N 51E Music Festival brings together international superstars, immersive staging, and the stunning Doha skyline for an unforgettable open air party atmosphere.
The festival will be hosted at 974 Stadium, one of Doha’s most recognizable architectural landmarks. Built using 974 shipping containers, the stadium offers natural ventilation, open air views, and a direct backdrop of the Doha skyline and waterfront.
This unique venue allows for a fully immersive festival environment while keeping the experience comfortable during Qatar’s winter season. Doors open at 5:00 PM, with music flowing continuously across two dedicated stages.
Two Stages. One Night. Non Stop Energy.
The entire stadium will be taken over by the festival, featuring simultaneous performances across two stages. At the 25N Stage, festival goers can expect high energy mainstage performances from Calvin Harris Afrojack Alesso and more global electronic music icons. At the 51E Stage, the focus shifts to melodic and deep electronic sounds with performances by NTO Ben Böhmer and additional international artists.
This dual stage setup ensures uninterrupted music and a dynamic flow throughout the night.
Global Headliners and Iconic Tracks
The lineup features some of the biggest names in electronic dance music.
Calvin Harris, known for global hits like We Found Love featuring Rihanna, brings chart topping energy to Doha.
Afrojack, famous for tracks such as Give Me Everything, delivers powerful festival anthems.
Alesso, celebrated for Under Control alongside Calvin Harris and Hurts, adds melodic progressive house vibes.
NTO brings his signature atmospheric sound with tracks like Invisible, while Ben Böhmer delivers emotive deep house with songs like Breathing.
This is a strictly 18 plus event. Original Qatar ID or passport is required for entry. Copies will not be accepted. Tickets are non refundable and non transferable unless the event is canceled by the organizer.
Dress Code and Cultural Guidelines
Attendees are encouraged to dress stylishly while respecting local culture. Evenings can be cool, so bringing a light jacket or hoodie is recommended. National dress or head coverings are allowed only in the designated 18 plus family friendly area.
Prohibited Items and Festival Rules
For safety and comfort, the following items are not allowed inside the venue
Weapons or sharp objects
Illegal substances
Outside food and drinks
Professional cameras or recording equipment without approval
Large bags or backpacks
Drones, fireworks, or laser pointers
Selfie sticks and large umbrellas
Pets except service animals
All attendees must follow security instructions and event guidelines at all times. The organizers reserve the right of admission.
Why 25N 51E Music Festival Is a Must Attend Event in Qatar
With a global DJ lineup, a landmark Doha venue, and an immersive multi stage setup, 25N 51E Music Festival 2026 is set to be one of the biggest music festivals in Qatar. The combination of international electronic music, waterfront views, and cutting edge production makes it a standout event on the Qatar events calendar.
Whether you are a fan of high energy EDM, melodic house, or world class live production, this festival promises an unforgettable night in Doha.
Doha is hosting one of the most moving humanitarian exhibitions of the year as Msheireb Museums and Qatar Charity present the 241 Martyrs Exhibition. This powerful installation honors the 241 orphaned children from Gaza who were sponsored through Qatar Charity’s Rofaqa initiative and who tragically lost their lives in the recent war. The exhibition speaks to the heart of every visitor in Qatar by shining a light on the stories, dreams and futures that were stolen far too soon.
The exhibition features 241 illuminated light boxes, each dedicated to a child. Every light box carries a face, a memory and a dream that once belonged to a young life filled with promise. These displays transform grief into remembrance, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the humanity behind each story. The installation uses photographs, visual storytelling, curated designs and videos to create an emotional atmosphere where reflection and compassion guide the experience.
This is more than an artistic display. It is a humanitarian space that reminds the community in Qatar of the immense impact of war on innocent children. The exhibition acknowledges the dreams that were left unfinished and honors the resilience these children embodied. By presenting their lives in such a personal and human way, the exhibition encourages visitors to consider their collective responsibility to protect children everywhere and to advocate for a world where young lives are safe, nurtured and valued.
Located in the Company House Courtyard at Msheireb Museums, the exhibition is open to the public and invites families, students and residents from across Qatar to come together in remembrance. The outdoor setting allows visitors to experience the stories in a calm and contemplative environment that encourages empathy and unity.
Qatar’s commitment to humanitarian awareness is reflected in this exhibition. It highlights the country’s continued support for global causes and its dedication to ensuring that the stories of vulnerable children are never forgotten. By bringing the 241 Martyrs Exhibition to the heart of Doha, Msheireb Museums and Qatar Charity offer a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and the value of every child’s life.
Visitors are encouraged to attend and reflect on the lives being honored. Each illuminated box represents not only a tragedy but a call for humanity, justice and hope for a future where every child can grow without fear.
Event details Location – Msheireb Museums Company House Courtyard Dates – 10 to 18 December 2025 Timing – 4 pm to 10 pm daily
Qatar National Day 2025 is set to be one of the most vibrant celebrations in recent years as the nation comes together to honor its heritage, unity, and deep sense of national pride. Each year, residents and visitors gather to experience cultural activities, patriotic showcases, and family friendly festivals that reflect Qatar’s history and future vision. From grand parades along the Doha Corniche to heritage experiences, waterfront events, and citywide celebrations, this year’s lineup offers something extraordinary for everyone.
Here are the best places to celebrate Qatar National Day 2025.
Qatar National Day Parade 2025 at Doha Corniche
The iconic Qatar National Day Parade returns on December 18 along the Doha Corniche after a three year break. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, the parade showcases a national display of unity, loyalty, and pride inspired by the National Day slogan drawn from the words of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. With You It Rises From You It Awaits reflects Qatar’s enduring spirit of generosity and commitment.
This year’s edition holds deeper significance as it coincides with regional challenges and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reminding everyone of solidarity and compassion. The parade celebrates Qatar’s cultural identity, the sacrifices of forefathers, and the bond between leadership and people.
Date: 18 December 2025 Time: To be confirmed Place: Doha Corniche
Darb Al Saai 2025 in Umm Salal
Darb Al Saai remains one of the most important cultural attractions during Qatar National Day. Spread across 150000 square meters, the event offers an immersive journey into Qatari heritage through land and sea traditions. Visitors can explore Bedouin life through Al Maqtar and Al Azba activities, enjoy poetry sessions, riddles, and visit traditional houses including the Falconry House and Sadu and Spinning House.
Children can experience camel riding, interactive heritage activities, and outdoor challenge tracks. The maritime heritage zone Al Bidda highlights Qatar’s seafaring history through exhibits, games, and a curated museum.
With participation from multiple state institutions, ministries, and cultural centers, Darb Al Saai delivers workshops, exhibitions, stage performances, and educational programs. More than four hundred volunteers support the event, including people with special needs, reinforcing Qatar’s values of inclusion and community engagement.
Date: 10 to 20 December Time: 3 PM to 11 PM Place: Umm Salal
Qatar National Day Celebration at Meryal Waterpark
Families looking for fun and entertainment can celebrate National Day at Meryal Waterpark on Al Yal Beach. With special programs and themed experiences, this event provides a unique beachside celebration ideal for children and adults.
Date: 18 December 2025 Time: 11 AM to 4 PM Place: Al Yal Beach, Meryal Waterpark
Old Doha Port transforms into a lively cultural hub with an exciting mix of performances, traditional showcases, and family friendly activities. Its scenic waterfront setting makes it one of the most atmospheric venues to enjoy the National Day spirit.
Date: 18 December 2025 Time: 4 PM to 11 PM Place: Old Doha Port
Qatar National Day at Msheireb Downtown Doha
Msheireb Downtown Doha hosts a citywide activation fully dedicated to Qatar National Day 2025. Interactive installations, live performances, cultural experiences, and immersive displays take over the modern district, creating a vibrant celebration that blends tradition with innovation.
Date: 18 December 2025 Time: 4 PM to 10 PM Place: Msheireb Downtown Doha
Festivities at The Pearl Island and Gewan Island
The Pearl Island and neighboring Gewan Island present a festive lineup featuring patriotic decorations, roaming performers, cultural shows, and family activities. These waterfront destinations offer a picturesque way to enjoy the celebrations while experiencing Qatar’s coastal beauty.
Qatar National Day at Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North
Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North offers a lively National Day program designed for families and resort visitors. With themed activities and engaging entertainment, it adds a luxurious twist to the holiday experience.
Date: 18 December 2025 Time: 3 PM to 6 PM Place: Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North
National Day Celebrations at Lusail Boulevard
Lusail Boulevard will host vibrant celebrations that highlight Qatar’s values of unity, pride, and cultural identity. The boulevard’s striking design sets the stage for engaging shows, creative displays, and family activities that bring the community together.
Date: 18 to 19 December 2025 Place: Lusail Boulevard
Celebrate Qatar National Day at Zulal Wellness Resort
For those seeking a peaceful and holistic celebration, Zulal Wellness Resort offers a special National Day experience running until the end of December. Surrounded by nature and tranquility, visitors can enjoy wellness activities while honoring Qatar’s national spirit.
Date: Until 31 December Place: Zulal Wellness Resort
Qatar National Day Run 2025 at Education City
Fitness enthusiasts can join the Qatar National Day Run 2025, part of the Series 2025 sporting events. The run takes place across the scenic Education City MTB Trail and Oxygen Park, offering a healthy and energetic way to celebrate the national spirit. Participants of all ages can enjoy a morning of fitness, community engagement, and outdoor activity while honoring Qatar National Day.
Date: 18 to 19 December 2025 Time: From 7 AM onwards Place: Education City MTB Trail and Oxygen Park
Experience Qatar National Day 2025 in the Best Destinations Across the Country
Qatar National Day 2025 promises unforgettable moments filled with cultural richness, heritage celebrations, and patriotic pride. Whether you prefer the iconic parade along the Corniche, heritage villages at Darb Al Saai, vibrant city festivities in Msheireb and Lusail, or serene experiences at luxury resorts, the country offers a diverse range of events that unite communities and celebrate Qatar’s national identity.
Visit Qatar has announced that Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group’s multi award-winning West End musical Mary Poppins will be staged in Doha for the very first time, with performances scheduled from 11 to 30 May 2026 at Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
Presented in collaboration with Proactiv Entertainment, the production marks a new highlight in Visit Qatar’s ongoing efforts to bring internationally recognised, family-friendly entertainment to residents and visitors.
Based on the stories of P. L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, the production tells the timeless story of the world’s most beloved nanny and her arrival on Cherry Tree Lane. Audiences can look forward to spectacular choreography, exceptional stagecraft, and celebrated musical numbers including “A Spoonful of Sugar”, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”, “Step in Time”, and “Chim Chim Cher-ee”.
Mary Poppins has original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, with additional compositions by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. The book is by Julian Fellowes, and the production is co-created by Cameron Mackintosh. It has orchestrations by William David Brohn and dance and vocal arrangements by George Stiles. It has sound design by Paul Gatehouse and lighting by Hugh Vanstone. Co-Choreography is by Stephen Mear. The set and costume designs are by Bob Crowley. Co-direction and choreography are by Matthew Bourne and direction is by Richard Eyre.
The international tour is directed by James Powell with choreography recreated by Richard Jones and musical supervision by Stephen Brooker.
The hosting of this world-class theatrical production represents Visit Qatar’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s position as a family-friendly destination for arts, culture, and entertainment. By attracting international shows that enhance the national events calendar and offer exceptional experiences for all family members, Visit Qatar continues to support the vibrant cultural landscape and advance Qatar’s standing as a regional hub for creative expression.
Tickets are now available to the public through marypoppins.qa.
In celebration of Qatar National Day, Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North and Meryal Waterpark invite guests to experience a day filled with culture, heritage, and family-focused festivities that honour the nation’s rich traditions and communal spirit.
At Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, celebrations will begin from 15:00 to 18:00 with a warm welcome featuring traditional Arabic coffee accompanied by live oud music. Guests will enjoy captivating Qatari traditional dance performances, followed by a camel and falcon photo opportunity set against the elegant backdrop of the resort. The programme will conclude with a celebratory cake cutting ceremony and the playing of the Qatari national anthem, bringing the afternoon to a meaningful close.
Hotel guests and children are also invited to immerse themselves in themed activities at Rixy Kids Club, designed to engage and inspire younger guests throughout the day. From 15:00, children can take part in a lively flag and mascot parade, followed by a creative art session focused on painting the Qatari flag. Entertainment continues with a juggler show, free play activities, interactive mascots, balloon bending. A selection of treats including cotton candy, cupcakes, mini pizzas, juices, Arabian sweets, and popcorn will be available for children to enjoy.
Earlier in the day, Meryal Waterpark will host Qatar National Day celebrations at Al Yal Beach from 11:00 until 16:00. Guests can enjoy live Arabic music, traditional Arabic coffee service, henna tattoos, and a falcon experience, creating an authentic cultural atmosphere by the sea.
Through these thoughtfully curated activities, Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North and Meryal Waterpark proudly celebrate Qatar National Day by bringing together heritage, entertainment, and togetherness, offering guests of all ages a memorable way to honour the spirit of the nation.
A powerful winter storm system has swept across Saudi Arabia, bringing intense rainfall, strong winds and hazardous weather conditions that have affected multiple regions across the Kingdom. The severe weather event has raised safety concerns, disrupted daily life and highlighted wider climatic shifts impacting the Gulf region, including neighboring Qatar.
Severe Weather Conditions Across Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is experiencing one of its most intense winter weather episodes in recent years. Heavy rainstorms combined with strong winds and thunderstorms have affected major cities and remote areas alike. Several regions have reported flash floods, reduced visibility due to dust and sandstorms, hailstorms and falling debris caused by wind gusts.
The Saudi National Center for Meteorology issued high level weather warnings across multiple provinces, urging residents to avoid flood prone areas and unnecessary travel. Emergency authorities have been placed on high alert as rainfall intensity increases the risk of urban flooding and infrastructure damage.
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
The storm has led to road closures, flight delays and disruptions to public services. Low visibility and flooding have created dangerous driving conditions, while strong winds have damaged temporary structures and power lines in some areas. Authorities continue to advise residents to monitor official weather updates and follow safety guidelines.
This extreme winter storm reflects a growing trend of unpredictable weather patterns in the Middle East, where rainfall is becoming more intense and concentrated over shorter periods.
Weather Patterns in the Gulf and Relevance to Qatar
While Qatar has not experienced the same level of severe weather, the broader Gulf region is influenced by the same atmospheric systems. Seasonal winter storms moving across the Arabian Peninsula can impact Qatar’s climate, leading to sudden rain showers, strong winds and temporary drops in temperature.
Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change regularly monitors regional weather developments, especially during winter months, to issue timely alerts for residents and visitors. Increased rainfall events in the Gulf have also raised awareness around urban drainage systems, road safety and preparedness during extreme weather.
Climate Change and Rising Weather Extremes
Climate experts note that shifting weather patterns across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region are linked to global climate change. Warmer air temperatures increase the atmosphere’s ability to hold moisture, leading to heavier rainfall during storm events. This trend is relevant for countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states that traditionally experience arid climates.
Governments across the region are investing in early warning systems, climate adaptation strategies and infrastructure upgrades to better manage the impact of extreme weather events.
Staying Safe During Extreme Weather
Residents in Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf, including Qatar, are advised to stay informed through official meteorological channels, avoid flooded areas, secure outdoor objects and follow local safety instructions during severe weather alerts.
As winter storms become more intense and frequent across the region, preparedness and awareness remain key to minimizing risks and protecting communities.
This major weather event serves as a reminder that extreme climate conditions are increasingly affecting the Middle East, making regional cooperation and climate resilience more important than ever.
In a landmark agreement, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a deal to build a high-speed electric train connecting the two countries. The announcement came during the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council meeting in Riyadh, led by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.
The new train line will link Riyadh to Doha, passing through key Saudi cities including Dammam and al-Hofuf. The project is also set to connect King Salman International Airport in Saudi Arabia with Hamad International Airport in Qatar, facilitating seamless travel between the two nations.
Strategic and Economic Impact
The high-speed rail project spans 785 kilometers and will operate at speeds of up to 300 km/h, benefiting over 10 million passengers once operational. Expected to be completed within the next six years, the initiative is projected to contribute SR115 billion to the combined GDP of both countries and generate around 30,000 new jobs, offering a significant boost to the regional economy.
Both governments described the project as “one of the biggest strategic initiatives” aligned with their national visions, emphasizing its importance in strengthening regional connectivity, trade, and mobility.
Defense and Security Cooperation
Beyond economic and transportation benefits, the joint statement also highlighted the countries’ commitment to defense and security cooperation. Saudi Arabia and Qatar reaffirmed their determination to enhance security partnerships, aiming to ensure stability across the Gulf region.
This agreement marks a major step in deepening diplomatic, economic, and security ties between the two Gulf neighbors, signaling a new era of cooperation.
