Qatar is a passionate sporting nation, ranging from one of the oldest sports known to man (falconry) to international spectacles like the FIFA World Cup, Asian Games and Formula One.
About Qatar
Qatar is welcoming 102 countries visa-free, check your visa status here.
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Explore things to do in Qatar!
You’ll witness a huge love of sports everywhere you go, from kite surfers in the bay and kids playing volleyball on the beach to thousands of fans cheering for their favourites at one of our world-class stadiums. Football, racing, golf, volleyball, tennis and more are celebrated at this leading destination for global sports tournaments.
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Qatar National Sports Day
The second Tuesday in February is a day to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
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Football: Qatar’s national sport
Football is the most popular sport in Qatar, enjoyed by locals and expats.
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Love of traditional sport
Heritage Qatar sports like falconry and camel racing date back centuries.
Recent sports events in Qatar
Qatar has made huge investments in sports infrastructure and played host to exciting landmark tournaments – which you can revisit at our innovative 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.
2022
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Qatar became the first Middle Eastern country to host football's biggest sporting event.
2021
Qatar Grand Prix
The inaugural F1 racing event took place at the Lusail International Circuit.
2019
IAAF World Athletics Championships
1,772 athletes from 206 teams competed in 49 events over 10 days.
2011
AFC Asian Cup
The association football competition determines the continental champion of Asia. Reigning champions, the Qatari national team, will defend their title in Doha in 2023.
2004
Qatar MotoGP
Lusail International Circuit hosted its first motorcycle grand prix. In 2008, the lights went on for the very first night race.
2001
WTA Qatar Open
The first Qatar TotalEnergies Open is hosted at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. The venue also plays host to the annual men’s annual Qatar ExxonMobil Open.
1993
ATP Qatar Open
The first ATP Qatar Open took place in 1993 in Doha, Qatar. The tournament was a major milestone for tennis in the Middle East. It is held annually at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex and is a highly anticipated one.
Highlights from Qatar’s biggest events
Let’s look back at some of the most thrilling match moments, where the titans of sports showed off top performances at major sporting events.
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Qatar’s love of modern and traditional sports
Discover a fascinating mix of old and new, where ancient traditions are cherished, and new favourites are sweeping the nation.
Feel more thrills
If you’re a sports lover looking for active breaks in Qatar, or love a dose of adventure on your visit, we have you covered. Imagine kayaking among the mangrove forests, paragliding from a sand dune or biking along mushroom-shaped rock formations. Here is our selection of fun sports activities to try.
Upcoming sporting events in Qatar
Be first in line for adrenaline-pumping Qatar sports events that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Wings for Life World Run
Join the Wings for Life World Run and run for a noble cause – 100% of all proceeds go to spinal cord research.
04
May
High Jump What Gravity Challenge Championship 2025
Get ready for the High Jump What Gravity Challenge Championship 2025!
09
May
RunGP Qatar 2025
Four epic races. One legendary F1 track. Over $200k in prize money.
09
May
To
10
May
ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025
Get ready for the excitement of the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025!
17
May
To
25
May
QNB One Run For All 2025
Get ready for the second edition of the biggest international half-marathon at Lusail International Circuit!
23
May
FIFA Arab Cup 2025
The FIFA Arab Cup brings together the best of Arab football, showcasing thrilling matches, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments on the road to glory!
01
Dec
To
18
Dec
West Asian Beach Volleyball Championship
Join us for the thrilling West Asian Beach Volleyball Championship – where top athletes compete in an exciting showcase of skill, speed, and sand!
05
May
To
11
May
Dukhan Bank Qetaifan Island North AQUABIKE
Join as at a multi-sport event that combines swimming and cycling, designed for athletes who love endurance sports but prefer to skip the run.
10
May
Things to know before travelling
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Visas
Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.
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Getting here
Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.
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Travel tips
Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.
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Getting around
From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.
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