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About Qatar

Sports in Qatar

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.

Sports in Qatar | The Ultimate Guide
Sports in Qatar | The Ultimate Guide

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.

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.

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.

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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.

Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2025
07 Feb
Sports
Khor Al Adaid

Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2025

Get ready for the thrilling 7th edition Al Adaid Desert Challenge at Sealine, Qatar.

2025 MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar
11 Apr To 13 Apr
Sports
Lusail International Circuit

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! 🏁

Doha Marathon by Ooredoo
17 Jan
Sports
Hotel Park Doha

Doha Marathon by Ooredoo

The 13th Doha Marathon by Ooredoo will feature over 15,000 runners and exciting activities.

Media One Doha Run
24 Jan
Sports
To be confirmed

Media One Doha Run

The 2nd Media One Doha Run featuring exciting 800m to 10K races will take place at Al Bidda Park!

Katara International Arabian Horse Festival 2025
29 Jan To 08 Feb
Sports
Katara Cultural Village

Katara International Arabian Horse Festival 2025

Experience the elegance and heritage at the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival 2025, where tradition meets excellence!

Qatar Desert Trail Running Series 2025
31 Jan To 27 Dec
Sports
Multiple locations

Qatar Desert Trail Running Series 2025

Annual competitive desert running races, open to all ages and featuring various distances

Sports for All Women's Race Series
01 Feb To 28 Feb
Sports
Education City Stadium

Sports for All Women's Race Series

Women's running races in various categories at Education City Stadium, starting in February. 

Qatar Sports Show
10 Feb To 12 Feb
Free
Sports
Katara Hall

Qatar Sports Show

The Qatar Sports Expo is packed with the latest gear, health foods, gyms, and thrilling activities for all!

Welcome to Qatar

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Sports in Qatar | The Ultimate Guide