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.
07
Feb
Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2025
Get ready for the thrilling 7th edition Al Adaid Desert Challenge at Sealine, Qatar.
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11
Apr
To
13
Apr
2025 MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar
Gear up for the thrill of a lifetime! 🏎️💨 Get your tickets and don't miss an adrenaline-packed experience at the Lusail International Circuit! 🏁
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17
Jan
Doha Marathon by Ooredoo
The 13th Doha Marathon by Ooredoo will feature over 15,000 runners and exciting activities.
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24
Jan
Media One Doha Run
The 2nd Media One Doha Run featuring exciting 800m to 10K races will take place at Al Bidda Park!
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29
Jan
To
08
Feb
Katara International Arabian Horse Festival 2025
Experience the elegance and heritage at the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival 2025, where tradition meets excellence!
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31
Jan
To
27
Dec
Qatar Desert Trail Running Series 2025
Annual competitive desert running races, open to all ages and featuring various distances
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01
Feb
To
28
Feb
Sports for All Women's Race Series
Women's running races in various categories at Education City Stadium, starting in February.
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10
Feb
To
12
Feb
Qatar Sports Show
The Qatar Sports Expo is packed with the latest gear, health foods, gyms, and thrilling activities for all!
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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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