Welcome to the Events and Activities e-guide of our 95th issue of the ever-evolving Marhaba. This issue marks Marhaba’s 32nd anniversary. However, it has also been one of our most challenging editions due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Our team has worked diligently, both in print and online, to provide the most accurate and up to date information, though the situation remains fluid.
Through the challenges of print media, the pandemic, and the current Middle East crisis, Marhaba has stood the test of time, and 32 years on, it remains Qatar’s premier information guide for tourists, visitors, and residents.
Qatar begins to get warmer and quieter at this time of year, but there is still much happening across the country, with an exciting range of festivals, events, and activities taking place. Take a look at our calendars in the Events and Activities section, or visit marhaba.qa for up to date event listings and details as the regional crisis continues to develop.
In this e-guide, our Interesting Reads explore Qatar’s ambitious slate of upcoming art, cultural and entertainment projects in Qatar Looking Ahead 2026 and Beyond. Discover one of nature’s rarest wonders in The Miracle of Life: Hawksbill Sea Turtles Season.
There is plenty more to explore in this e-guide and across our full collection of 10 free e-guides, covering everything from events and activities to shopping, education, hospitality, dining, event planning, and business. You can also visit marhaba.qa for the latest news, along with food, staycation, and car reviews, plus events and entertainment options.
Whether you're reading this e-guide from Qatar or abroad, we hope you find it insightful. Don’t forget to follow us on social media and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter, we look forward to connecting with you.
Hilary Bainbridge Founder and Managing Editor
MarhabaGuideQatar @MarhabaGuideQatar
@MarhabaQatar
MarhabaQatar
MarhabaInformationGuide
Events and Activities Events and Activities
Events in Qatar (April – June 2026)
Feature – Qatar Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
Qatar is heading into 2026 with an ambitious slate of new projects, as art, culture and entertainment offerings continue to expand across the country.
Sports in Qatar
An overview of the local sports scene, including Qatar Olympic Committee, Aspire Zone, federations and associations, and sports facilities.
Sports Events in Qatar (April – June 2026)
Sports Activities
A comprehensive list of clubs, societies and associations, from Archery to Water Sports.
Health and Wellness
Options for holistic wellness, Pilates and yoga.
Leisure Activities
Clubs, societies and activities, from Arts and Crafts to Theme Parks and Play Zones.
Founder & Managing Editor
Hilar y Bainbridge
Editorial
Sarah Palmer (Editor)
Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)
Terr y Sutcliffe
Adver tising
Howard Bainbridge
Marrian Magtira
Retail Sales
Ayen Molina
Online/Digital
Patrisha Manzon
Char lotte Wright
Juggy Gill
Isra Mubarak
Design and Ar twor k
Dick Tamayo
Mar Principe
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Events April – June
Qatar is a vibrant and eventful country, with a wide range of activities taking place over the coming months. Due to recent developments in the region, some events have either been cancelled or postponed. For more events or up to date details, see our online calendar at marhaba.qa. Also see the Sports Events Calendar in this section.
Ongoing Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture Multiple locations
This year's collaboration is symbolic for Qatar. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the US, and is the same tournament that inspired the creation of the Years of Culture initiative when Qatar won the hosting bid in 2010. This year's programme of events will show how football can connect cultures, and includes legacy projects of the Year of Culture with the US in 2021. yearsofculture.qa
8 – 13 April Cirque du Soleil – Corteo in Doha QNCC C2 For more than 40 years, Cirque du Soleil has wowed audiences across the world. Their signature performance Corteo now comes to Qatar, a joyous procession and a festive parade imagined by a clown. Each show is 90 minutes of acrobatics, live orchestras and dynamic lighting. visitqatar.qa
30 April – 31 May Fontana Circus Qatar Hyatt Plaza D2 Experience the first travelling water circus in the Middle East, featuring a world-class musical dancing fountain and international circus acts. Suitable for all ages. visitqatar.qa, doha.platinumlist.net
14 - 23 May Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) DECC C4 One of the oldest amd largest international book fairs in the region, with over 500 publishing houses representing 40 countries. dohabookfair.qa, visitqatar.qa
23 – 24 May Qatar Education Leadership Expo 2026 Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, Qatar D4 The premier event connecting educational leaders, institutions, and innovators in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. eduexpoqatar.com
(TBC)
28 May Eid Al Adha A public holiday, with numerous activities in the hotels and shopping malls. For all you need to know about Eid Al Adha in Qatar, including cultural awareness, opening hours of malls, banks and hospitals, and staycation and dining options, visit marhaba.qa
29 – 31 May Sneaker Con Doha DECC C4 The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth will be coming to Qatar. A live marketplace will be at the heart of the event, with vendors offering rare collectibles, the latest releases, and live buying, selling, and trading throughout the show. visitqatar.qa, sneakercon.com
4 – 11 June The Little Mermaid THIS Theatre E3 The Doha Players production of Disney’s Little Mermaid based on the Hans Christian Andersen story and the Disney film produced by Howard Ashman and John Muske, and written and directed by John Musker and Ron Clements. Tickets at events.q-tickets.com
9 – 11 June Project Qatar DECC C4 The region's leading construction and building materials exhibition, which this year aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 under the theme 'Innovation & Sustainability: Qatar’s Path to 2030'. Discover the latest infrastructure technologies, sustainable construction solutions, and engineering products. projectqatar.com
9 – 11 June Qatar Smart Manufacturing 2026 DECC C4 Showcasing technological advancements and innovations in smart manufacturing, particularly automation, digitalisation, and intelligent systems. Industry experts and innovators will explore the transformative power of smart manufacturing in Qatar and beyond. qatar-smartmanufacturing.com
9 – 11 June Consumer TeQ 2026 DECC C4 Qatar’s first international consumer technology exhibition, where companies will promote products and services to customers and partners, including smartphones, home appliances, gaming equipment, and cutting-edge technologies. consumer-teq.com
14 June Classic Hits: Sibelius & Saint-Saens Katara Opera House B4 With conductor Elias Grandy, concertmaster Joo Young Oh, violinist Luka Faulisi and organist Aydan Alakbarova. For more QPO events throughout the year, visit qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org
Lectures, exhibitions and workshops
Throughout the Year
• 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum Storytelling, education programmes and activities for families and schools. 4452 5200, 321qosm.org.qa B2
• Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Dean’s Lecture Series. 4454 8400, qatar.cmu.edu C2
• Embrace Doha Workshops, events and tours offering a look at Qatar's rich culture. embracedoha.net
• Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar Public talks and conferences. 4457 8100, qatar.georgetown.edu C2
• Heenat Salma Farm Workshops and activities including sadu weaving, pottery and aromatherapy. 5096 0007, heenatsalma.earth
• Katara Exhibitions, cultural and music events, and workshops. 182, katara.net B4
• Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Exhibitions, workshops, artist encounters and guided tours for families. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2
• Museum of Islamic Art Workshops, educational programmes, library and gallery tours. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa D4
• National Museum of Qatar Online tours, workshops, lectures, and activities for schoolchildren. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4
• Qatar Foundation Community events, public talks, tours and workshops. 4454 0000, qf.org.qa C2
• Qatar National Library Workshops, educational and academic programmes, reading events and chess club. qnl.qa C2
• Virginia Commonwealth University of Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) Gallery lectures, exhibitions, and community classes in art, design and crafts. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu C2
Music, drama and more
• Doha Film Institute Film screenings, festivals, and educational programmes. dohafilminstitute.com
• Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Performances and world premieres of Western and Arabic music. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Pub Quiz at Shehrazad on the last Monday of each month. 4428 1555, radissonblu.com D3/4
• The Doha Players An amateur dramatic society that presents a range of shows and open mic nights throughout the year. See their Facebook page.
• The Doha Singers Qatar's largest and oldest amateur choir. dohasingers.com
Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) C4 4033 1111, decc.qa
Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) C2 4470 7000, qncc.qa
Qatar Tourism (QT) visitqatar.qa
To be included in our listings, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa
Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar:
✓ Connect with Marhaba on our social media channels
✓ Visit marhaba.qa for news, calendars and weekend guides
✓ Subscribe to our weekly newsletter m
Qatar Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
By Ola Diab
Qatar is heading into 2026 with an ambitious slate of new projects, as art, culture and entertainment offerings continue to expand across the country.
very new year brings new beginnings and a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead. 2026 arrived with much to look forward to. This year, Qatar will welcome a range of new establishments and experiences, from new museums to theme parks and green spaces, adding to the country’s growing cultural and entertainment landscape.
Dadu, the Children's Museum of Qatar
The much-anticipated Dadu, the Children's Museum of Qatar, is expected to open in 2026, featuring interactive galleries, restaurants, and activity rooms. The museum provides cutting-edge child development surroundings and resources to help children and their families thrive. Inspired by building blocks, Dadu will feature a stunning exterior of interconnected blocks circling the museum's covered foyer. It will be a place that nurtures children's creativity and imagination with galleries, restaurants, cafes and activity rooms.
Meaning 'play' in Arabic, the word dadu is associated with other words like dada, or fun, and dwady, which refers both to swings and to the footmarks left behind from swinging and other marks of play that children leave behind in their environments. Carvings on stones offer some of the oldest proof of the fact that play is a natural instinct in children and has always been an essential part of childhood.
Prior to its opening, Dadu, Children’s Museum of Qatar opened Dadu Gardens at Al Bidda Park during the Expo 2023 Doha. After the expo's conclusion in
March 2024, it closed and reopened in November 2025, and will close again in April 2026. Designed to cater to children aged under 12, the 14,500 sq m Dadu Gardens hosted seasonal garden activities, and served as an outdoor gallery and living classroom of the museum, using the power of authentic play and engagement with nature to support children’s development. For more information, visit qm.org.qa
The event adds to an increased focus on art programming for Qatar for 2026, following the new Lawh Wa Qalam Museum dedicated to the late Indian artist Maqbool Fida Husain in November 2025.
Dugong Adventure World
Dugong Adventure World, the world’s first animationthemed park by Dugong Family, is expected to open in 2026 at 900 Park. Dugong Adventure World will provide families with direct interaction with the brand’s animated characters, offering a unique blend of cultural education and entertainment.
Dugong Adventure World will serve as a landmark destination that unites education, entertainment, and Qatari cultural values. It promises an experience where families can meet the brand’s animated characters, explore themed zones, and engage with interactive exhibits that celebrate Arab identity and environmental stewardship.
Dugong Family is a Qatari intellectual property (IP) focused on animated characters and storytelling, centred around the marine mammal, to promote Qatar's culture, values and Qatar National Vision 2030. Over the next five years, the Dugong Family brand aims to extend its cultural footprint globally, promoting Arab heritage and values through brandbased storytelling. For more information, visit dugongadventure.com
Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD)
In April 2025, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) announced that it is bringing exclusive worldclass attractions to Qatar for the first time with its partnership with Ground Control Entertainment. This collaboration introduces three groundbreaking experiences under licence from leading global brands Ground Control and Hasbro, at Msheireb Galleria.
Dadu, the Children's Museum of Qatar
Dugong Adventure World
Ground Control is a 2,300 sq m interactive entertainment centre that combines classic games with the latest interactive technologies. The centre includes an advanced 10-lane bowling alley, innovative arcade games, high-speed racing simulators, modern table games, advanced billiards, air hockey, table football, jet pong and digital darting.
NERF Action Xperience is an arena for confrontational games, targeting the youth in a fun environment, equipped with digital scoreboards.
PLAY-DOH Fun Factory is a comprehensive innovative experience designed to stimulate imagination, beginning with a colourful wall of PLAY-DOH constructions and unique interactive surfaces that allow visitors to transform simple materials into magnificent artistic works.
All of Msheireb Galleria’s play zones were originally scheduled to open in late 2025 but have yet to do so, with openings now expected through 2026.
Qatar Outlet Village
The much-awaited opening of the country's first outlet mall, Qatar Outlet Village, is expected this year, following a delayed opening in early 2025. Set to open in Qetaifan Island North, the waterside project includes shopping experiences, many dining options, a festival plaza, and more. Qatar Outlet Village will be spread over 150,000 sq m, consisting of more than 100 shops with luxury global brands, canal-side cafes, many restaurants, and fine dining options. In addition, it will feature air-conditioned walkways and have 1,400 parking spaces. For more information, visit qataroutletvillage.com
Simaisma Project
The Simaisma Project is located 40 km from the north of Doha and will provide novel tourist and entertainment experiences to the people of Qatar and its visitors.
In June 2024, the Ministry of Municipality and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment
Company unveiled the QAR20 bn (USD5.5 bn) Simaisma Project, which is expected to become a prominent urban landmark in the country.
The CEO of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Ali Mohamed Al Ali, said, 'The Simaisma Project embodies an inspiring vision that reflects our commitment to delivering a world-class entertainment experience with a distinctive Qatari touch. It also aims to attract investments in the tourism sector and create new job opportunities, all while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability, which are integral to Qatar’s future vision.'
Spanning 8 mn sq m, and extending along 7 km of pristine beachfront on Qatar’s eastern coast, Simaisma will offer unique all year round experiences with outdoor air conditioning technology.
The project will provide promising investment opportunities, with 16 tourism zones available for development, including resorts that spread out over four zones each with a unique design and character. In addition, the project will feature a 650,000 sq m
large-scale theme park, a signature 18-hole golf course, residential villas, and a yacht marina, as well as luxury restaurants and retail.
Sustainability will be a fundamental pillar of the project, with reliance on smart systems, in addition to the use of local and recycled materials, as well as the latest in construction technology to form an 'environmentally responsible' development with state-of-the-art facilities and features.
In November 2024, it was unveiled that the 650,000 sq m large-scale theme park will be the Land of Legends, a popular theme park originally from Türkiye. The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, laid the foundation stone of the new premier tourism destination in Simaisma.
Qatar Outlet Village
Simaisma Project
fitness facilities, walking paths, seating, and accessible amenities, designed to promote outdoor recreation and community use.
Founder of FTG Development and President of Land of Legends, Fettah Tamince, said, 'We are delighted to bring the unique Land of Legends experience to Qatar with our partner Qatari Diar, creating a destination that is more than just a theme park or hotel. It is a lively world of entertainment and leisure that will add a new dimension to Qatar’s attractions and become a top choice for holidays and fun for millions in the region.'
At 650,000 sq m, the park will be larger than Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Set to become one of the largest theme parks in the region and globally, Land of Legends aims to attract foreign investment to the country.
The project is expected to draw nearly 2 mn tourists annually, particularly from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, while engaging numerous tour operators, partners, and stakeholders.
Construction began in 2025, with completion expected within 36 to 48 months and an official opening planned for the end of 2028. For more information, visit qataridiar.com/project/simaisma
The 5-Year Plan
In November 2025, the Ministry of Municipality (Baladiya) announced the fast-tracking of its nationwide park development strategy as part of Qatar National Vision 2030. The initiative aims to develop parks across the country to create sustainable, healthy, and accessible outdoor spaces for residents and future generations.
Two new parks opened in December 2025 in Al Thumama and Al Meearad, designed and developed in collaboration with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal).
With names inspired by native Qatari plants, Al Nabaq Park (3,723 sq m) in Al Thumama and Al Athl Park (3,368 sq m) in Al Meearad are newly opened neighbourhood parks featuring extensive green spaces, jogging tracks, children’s play areas,
In addition to Al Nabaq Park and Al Ahtl Park, three additional parks in Al Wakra and one in Al Sailiya are expected to open in the coming months, bringing the total number of newly opened parks to six.
Looking ahead, at least 20 new parks are planned to open across Qatar over the next five years. These will include local neighbourhood parks, typically ranging between 3,000 and 4,000 sq m, ensuring families have access to green spaces within their communities.
The ministry’s nationwide park development strategy aligns with Qatar’s five-year plan, which focuses on creating recreational spaces, tourism-friendly destinations, and both open and closed parks. These efforts support the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and aim to enhance the overall quality of life.
The initiative also builds on Qatar’s wider urban planning efforts following the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and Expo 2023 Doha, promoting outdoor recreation, environmental sustainability – such as reducing heat and pollution – and community engagement.
As part of the long-term strategy, several existing sites will also be redeveloped, including the former Doha Zoo in Al Furousiya Street – Qatar’s first zoo – which opened in 1984 and closed in 2012. In addition, a new safari attraction is planned near the Panda House in Al Khor, further expanding the country’s green and recreational offerings. m
The former Doha Zoo
Sports in Qatar
Qatar believes in making sport available to all, both as participants and spectators. The nation has invested heavily in world-class infrastructure, establishing itself as a major destination for high-profile sports events like the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, the first time the competition has been held in the Middle East. Traditional pursuits like horse and camel racing sit alongside modern sports like padel, Formula 1 and rock climbing, offering something for everyone.
National Sports Day in Qatar was created in 2011 to highlight the importance of physical health and encourage everyone to engage in physical activity. It is an official, paid public holiday held annually on the second Tuesday of February – Qatar is one of only a few countries to hold such a public holiday.
Ministry of Sports and Youth
The current Ministry of Sports and Youth (MSY) was established in 2021 with the mandate to 'support the development of youth, build their capacities, and promote their role in performing their duties, as well as to support talented and distinguished young people and help them develop their skills, encourage the community to practice sports as a part of their lifestyle, increase participation in sports activities, and support national sports talents.'
A new strategy was launched in March 2025, with the slogan 'Quality Life and Future-Ready Youth'. It focuses on nurturing talented athletes, improving public health through sports with support to the private sector, and increasing operational efficiency at sports facilities.
In September 2025, the MSY announced the creation of the National Sports Day Award for Government and Private Entities. The award is given for the efforts made in organising year-round sports events and aims to encourage positive competition among institutions, provide a healthy and active work environment, and promote the spirit of sportsmanship in the local community. msy.gov.qa
Qatar Olympic Committee
The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) was established in 1979 and became a member of the International Olympic Committee in 1980, the Olympic Council of Asia in 1981, and the Arab Sports Games Federation in 1982. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani was re-elected President of the QOC for the new Olympic term (2024–2028).
Since its establishment, the QOC has played a major role in spreading sports awareness in the country, developing the Olympic culture in accordance with the Olympic Charter, and supporting sports performance. Successes include athletes like Mutaz Barshim, regarded as one of the best high jumpers of all time, with four Olympic
medals, including one gold. Weightlifter Fares Ibrahim is another Olympic medal winner with gold at the 2020 Summer Olympics – the first Qatari Olympic champion in any sport.
Looking to future success, the QOC 2023–2030 Strategy has three main objectives: ensuring sports excellence, promoting Olympic culture, and achieving comprehensive sports development. The top priorities are to prepare better national teams, encourage all members of society to participate in sports and adopt healthy lifestyles, and host major tournaments to promote sports tourism.
There are campaigns throughout the year to engage residents in keeping fit and healthy, as well as events for schoolchildren and the promotion of women in sport. olympic.qa
Sports federations and associations
• Air Sports • Athletics • Basketball
• Billiards and Snooker • Bowling
• Boxing and Wrestling • Chess • Collegiate Sports
• Cricket • Cycling and Triathlon
• Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon • Esports
• Fencing • Football • Golf • Gymnastics
• Handball • Motor and Motorcycle • Paralympic
• Rugby and Hockey • Sailing and Rowing
• School Sports • Shooting and Archery
• Swimming • Table Tennis
• Taekwondo, Judo and Karate
• Tennis, Squash and Badminton • Volleyball
• Weightlifting • Winter Sports
Mutaz Barshim made history at the Olympic Games Paris 2024, becoming Qatar's most decorated Olympian and the first high jumper to win four medals at successive Olympic Games.
Aspire Zone Foundation D3
Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) (below left) is located in Al Waab and is a comprehensive sports complex covering 2.5 sq km. Originally known as Sport City, the area was renamed Aspire Zone in 2006. AZF was established in 2008 with three member organisations: Aspire Academy for young athletes, Aspetar hospital specialising in sports medicine, and Aspire Logistics which manages facilities.
Facilities are extensive and include Aspire Dome, Aspire Park, Hamad Aquatic Centre, Khalifa International Stadium, Ladies Club, National Teams Club, Sport Accelerator, Women's Gym, tracks and playing fields, The Torch Doha hotel and the public Aspire Park. 4413 8188, aspirezone.qa
Aspetar Specialised orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital, offering support to athletes, like injury prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and performance enhancement. 4413 2000, aspetar.com
Aspire Academy Applied sports science support to student‑athletes and graduates at international competitions across core sports like football, athletics, squash, and table tennis. aspire.qa
Aspire Active Fitness classes and programmes for all ages and physical abilities. 4413 6430 (women), 4413 6481 (men), aspireactiveqa.com
Other Sports Facilities and Venues
• Al Shaqab • Asian Town Cricket Stadium
• Corinthia Golf Club • Doha Golf Club
• Doha Sports Park • Education City (below right)
• Education City Golf Club • Evo Sports
• FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ stadia
• Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex
• Lusail International Circuit
• Lusail Multipurpose Hall/Sports Arena
• Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club
• Qatar Sports Club • Qatar University
Qatar has hosted a multitude of local, regional and international events across a diverse selection of sports, with many more to come.
Previous international sporting events
• Tour of Qatar (men's/women's cycling) • 15th Asian Games (2006) • 2011 AFC Asian Cup
• 12th Pan Arab Games (2011) • FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) (2014)
• Men’s Handball World Championship (2015) • AIBA World Boxing Championships (2015)
• UCI Road World Championships (2016) • FIG Artistic World Gymnastics Championships (2018)
• 2019 IAAF World Championships • Formula 1 Ooredoo Qatar Grand Prix (2021)
• World Padel Championship 2022 • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ • AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™
• 2024 FINA World Aquatics Championships • AFC U23 Asian Cup (2024)
• FIP World Padel Championships Qatar (2024) • FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2025™
Annual international events
• Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP) • Commercial Bank Qatar Masters (golf)
• FIA World Endurance Championship (Qatar 1812 km) • Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix
• Longines Global Champions Tour (equestrian) • Qatar Classic Squash Tournament
• Qatar ExxonMobil Open (ATP 500) • Qatar Table Tennis Open
• Qatar TotalEnergies Open (WTA 1000) • Wanda Diamond League Doha (athletics) Coming up
• FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ • ISSF World Shooting Championship (2026)
• FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 • 21st Asian Games (2030)
Sports Events Calendar
Qatar is a passionate sporting nation, with ancient sports like falconry and major international events like the Formula 1. This is just a selection of sports events taking place over the coming months. Due to recent developments in the region, some events have either been cancelled or postponed. For more events or up to date details, see our online calendar at marhaba.qa and follow us on our social media channels to keep up to date.
Until end The Doha Bank Stars League is the main tournament of the Qatar Stars League (QSL), with 12 clubs competing over 22 weeks. All matches are broadcast live on Alkass Sports Channels. The QSL Cup has a new format for the 2025–2026 season, now with 20 teams from the First and Second Divisions. It will be played in a single-stage league format, with each team playing 10 matches over 10 weeks. The season-ending Qatar Cup is between the top four teams in the League with two semi-final matches between the first and fourth-placed teams and second and third-placed teams, with the winners of each playing in the final. Tickets at qsl.qa
Until 16 April Horse racing Al Rayyan Park D2 and Al Uqda Racing Complex Al Khor Meetings Wednesday and Thursday. qrec.gov.qa
17 – 18 April Toyota GR Yaris Qatar Season 2 Lusail International Circuit A3 The final round of one of Qatar's most exciting, competitive races, organised by Al Abdulghani Motors. Also taking place is the Regional Cup, where Qatar and Kuwait go head to head in a 10-car showdown. gryariscup.aamotors.com
26 April eFIBA World Cup Venue to be confirmed. The Qatar Basketball Federation will host Seasons 4 and 5 of the eFIBA World Finals in Qatar in 2026 and 2027, the first time this major tournament will be held in the Middle East. eFIBA is the official international e-basketball tournament where NBA 2K players represent their countries, organised by FIBA to bring esports and traditional basketball together on a global stage. fiba.basketball
23 June International Olympic Day The community is invited to participate with special events and activities around the country. Follow news and updates at marhaba.qa
November 2026 2026 MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar Lusail International Circuit A3 This was originally scheduled to take place in April, but was postponed to later in the year due to the situation in the region. As well as racing under the floodlights, visitors can enjoy a dedicated Fan Zone, food courts, and interactive installations. Tickets and hospitality packages at lcsc.qa
Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2026 Lusail International Circuit A3 Witness top-tier motorsport action under the floodlights. Tickets and hospitality packages at lcsc.qa
November 2026 ISSF World Shooting Championships The Qatar Shooting & Archery Association will be hosting the 2026 ISSF World Shooting Championships, encompassing rifle, pistol and shotgun events. This is the first time Qatar has hosted the ISSF World Shooting Championships, the sport’s most prestigious event. issf-sports.org
August 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 The FIBA Basketball World Cup is a high-profile international men's basketball tournament. Hosted by Qatar, this will be the first to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region. Contested by 32 nations, the teams will also be aiming to secure a place at the LA 2028 Olympic Games or the FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournaments. fiba.basketball
2029 2029 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship The tournament will be held in the Middle East for the first time in its 70-year history. The FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship is one of the most prestigious and competitive tournaments on the federation’s calendar, featuring 32 teams from around the globe. fivb.com
2030 21st Asian Games Qatar previously hosted the 2006 Asian Games and under 'Project Legacy of the Doha 2030 Asian Games' will use the infrastructure built for this event and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The Asian Games will be across 54 sports and disciplines in 39 state-of-the-art venues. agdoha2030.qa
Sports Activities
Marhaba updates this section every issue, however details may change after going to press. If your organisation is listed on these pages, email any changes to marhaba@ marhaba.com.qa. Many of the locations can be found on the maps in this guide, and Marhaba pocket maps can be bought at bookshops and stores around town. Also see:
• Leisure Activities for dance classes, fishing, theme parks and play zones.
• Health and Wellness for wellness, Pilates and yoga.
• Hospitality in Qatar for hotels' fitness facilities.
• Accessible Qatar for activities for persons with disabilities.
• See our monthly hotel listings at marhaba.qa
✓ An activity for children or one that children can participate in.
Archery
Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 7+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Aviation and Skydiving
365 Adventures Multiple locations Flights over Al Thakhira mangroves, hot air balloon rides, paratriking, and sports and adventure packages. For ages 15+. 3339 3323, 365adventures.me ✓
Asfary Multiple locations Hot air balloon rides and Doha SkyView helium balloon rides. For ages 8+. Ride availabiity and timings can change due to weather conditions. 5543 4313, asfary.com ✓
iFLY in Doha Quest Doha Oasis D4 Indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel. For age 3+. Open Monday to Saturday 2 pm – 10 pm, closed Sunday. 4410 3444, dohaquest.com ✓
Qatar Flying Club Al Khor airfield Flight training programmes, sightseeing tours of key landmarks. 5566 5658, qatarflyingclub.net
Baseball and Softball
Qatar Little League American School of Doha D3
A chartered member of Little League International, the world's largest youth sports organisation. Open to children aged 4 – 18. Challenger Baseball is an inclusive programme for children with disabilities. qatarlittleleague.com ✓
Basketball
Evo Sports Qatar Multiple locations For children aged 6+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations For children aged 6+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓
Bowling
300 Bowling Center Al Thumama Mall E4 Bowling alley, pool/billiards and gaming area. Open daily 10 am – 3 am. 4444 0260, 3363 3838 ✓
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 8-lane bowling alley with authentic American diner. Open daily 10 am – 10 pm. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Gondolania Bowling Center Villaggio D2 12-lane bowling alley. Open Sunday to Wednesday 10 am –11 pm, Thursday/Saturday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm – midnight. 4403 9800, gondolania.com ✓
Megapolis Entertainment Center The Pearl Island B4 Bowling, billiards, escape rooms, CXC racing simulator, birthday parties. Open Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 3 am, Friday 1 pm – 3 am. 4437 8444/84, megapolisqatar.com ✓
Multaqa Bowling Center Education City C2 12-lane bowling alley. Open Sunday/Tuesday/Thursday 4 pm – 9:30 pm, Monday/Wednesday/Friday/ Saturday 8 am – 9:30 pm. 4454 0267 ✓
Qatar Bowling Center D4 32-lane bowling alley. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – midnight, Thursday 10 am – 1 am, Friday 8 am – 6 pm (leagues), 6 pm – 1 am (open to all). 4435 3054/3336 2722, qatarbowlingcenter.com ✓
Cricket
Qatar Cricket Association QOC Building, Al Dafna C4 Training, development, facilities and practice nets. 4494 4941, qatarcricketassociation.org ✓ Stallions Cricket Academy Multiple locations Coaching and events for adults and children. 3140 8994, stallions-qatar.com ✓
Katara Hills
Cycling
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5
Explore the island by bike or Segway. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Qatar Cycling & Triathlon Federation Multiple locations Events and development of the sport under the Qatar Cycling Academy. 4447 5522, qatarcycling.org ✓
Darts
Qatar Darts League Shamrock Tavern, Delta Hotel C3 Join the private Facebook group for details of events and tournaments or the Instagram page.
Fencing
Clement Sports Multiple locations Training for ages 4 to adults, beginners to advanced, corporate and private events, and archery at Lusail Winter Wonderland Park. 7751 2469, clementsports.com ✓
Fitness Classes and Gyms
For dance and Zumba see Leisure Activities, for Pilates and yoga see Health and Wellness, both in this section.
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Full gym with indoor pool, ladies gym area, and jogging tracks. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Hotel Collection D4 Personal training and TechnoShape body slimming sessions at M|Fit gym, for hotel guests only. 4009 9999, alwadihoteldoha.com
Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Classes for men, women, and children aged 6 months+. Registration form and schedule are online. aspireactiveqa.com ✓
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Beach bootcamp, circuit training and stretching classes. Gym is open 24/7. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha
Banyan Tree Doha D4 Fitness classes and exercise rooms. 4410 3333, banyantree.com ✓
Bounce Fitness Multiple locations Bootcamp, martial arts, yoga and gymnastics for adults and children. 5061 1266, bouncefitness.com.qa ✓
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Fitness centre and studio, kids club and two swimming pools. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq ✓
Dana Club C4 Aquarobics, aerobics and HIIT including ladies-only classes and Jump Gym for kids. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa ✓
Delta Hotels City Center Doha C3 The Emerald Gym is fully equipped with pool and steam rooms. 4470 3333, marriott.com ✓
Education City Golf Club C2 Gym for general fitness; coaching by PGA golf professional for golf swing, stretching and core stability. ecgolf.com ✓
Evo Active – Evo Sports Qatar Multiple locations Ladies only/adults and children aged 16+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com
Evolve Multiple locations Classes at several hotels, personal training and nutritional advice. 5040 3234, evolvemindbodysoul.com ✓
Fairmont Doha A4 Aquarobics, movement and mobility, custom coaching; also has a climbing wall. 4030 7200, fairmont.com/doha ✓
Fitness First City Center Doha C4 Fitness classes and separate male/female gyms. 4411 5999, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Tabata, aqua spinning, HIIT (adults); gymnastics and tennis (children). Ladies-only sessions also available. 4485 8802, fourseasons.com/doha ✓
Grand Hyatt Doha B4 CrossFit, aqua gym, Tae Bo and core. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com ✓
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Separate male and female training zones available, for guests aged 16+ only. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa
Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 TRX, seasonal outdoor personal training (PT) and walking/running, Movement Zone, Body Analyser and private ladies only fitness area. The Intelligent Movement Fitness Experience is designed to help move more and move better. Online PT sessions available. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Daily group and one-to-one classes, two fitness areas (one ladies/men, one ladies only). 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz
Mondrian Doha A4 Open 24/7, complimentary Diet or Fitness DNA Test with membership. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha
OxFitness Lab The Gate Mall C4 Ladies-only fitness hub with six studios offering Pilates, Lagree strength training, barre, spin and open gym. 4020 6430, oxfitnesslab.com
Park Hyatt Doha D4 Separate female/male gyms. 4009 1234, parkhyattdoha.com
Pullman Hotel West Bay C4 More than 40 exercise stations, open 24/7 for hotel guests. 4009 4000, pullman-doha-westbay.com
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Personal training and aquafit. Free daily stretching classes for club members and hotel guests. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓
Raffles Doha A4 Gym for guests and members only, private fitness sessions, nutrition consultations. 4030 7100, rafflesdoha.com
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha D4 Open 24/7, classes include TRX, Pilates, Tabata, spinning and Kangoo Jump. 4429 8888, rixos.com/en/hotel-resort/rixos-gulf-hotel-doha ✓
Rosewood Doha B4 Multi-disciplinary movement, diagnostics and assessments, performance optimisation, and athletic recovery. 4030 3333, rosewoodhotels.com/en/doha
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Doha D4 Daily HIIT, Zumba toning, kickboxing, spinning, circuit training, full moon yoga, aquarobics, 24/7 gym. 4425 6666, ritzcarlton.com/doha
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Open 24/7, fitness training, assessment, yoga and spinning. See the online schedule. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha
Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha C4 The Pürovel Spa & Sport gym offers cardio, strength training and mindfulness, group classes range from aqua biking to aerial yoga. 4000 8888, swissotelcornichedoha.com/purovel-spa-sport/ ✓
The Ned Doha A4 Ned's Club Gym has state-ofthe-art equipment, studios, personal trainers and group classes. 4406 1111, thened.com/doha ✓
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Core conditioning and toning, low impact, power walking, spinning and more. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/doha ✓
The St. Regis Doha B4 Free classes and personal training for guests and members. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio is open 24/7, classes include aerobics, boot camp, boxing and morning flow. 4492 1600, marriott.com
W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Fully equipped FIT gym open 24/7. 4453 5555, marriott.com
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail A4 Gym, training area, Zen Wellness Yoga Zone on the terrace, and My Equilibria instinctive wellness training installation. Live and virtual classes include reformer Pilates, barre, yoga, and spinning. 4456 5656, hilton.com
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay C4 Separate gender studios, spinning and stretching classes, three mind and yoga studios, juice bars, and an elevator for members. 4008 9000, hilton.com
Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som Al Ruwais Personalised fitness training, nutrition guidance and metabolism-boosting activities to help alleviate pain, improve posture and overall fitness. Daily activities and family fitness challenges for children of all ages. 4477 6500, zulal.com ✓
Football
Aspire Zone Foundation D2 Five-a-side pitch with FIFA quality artificial turf and foam shock pad underlay. Open daily 4 pm – 11 pm. Book online at booking.aspirelogistics.qa, lifeinaspire.qa ✓
Ability Friendly Qatar Foundation Multaqa C2 Sunday – Thursday, small group sessions available for anybody with a disability or special need, aged 5+. 4454 0772, abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa ✓
Evo Sports Qatar Multiple locations For children aged 6+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Lusail Football Academy Doha Sports Park B4 Qatar’s first QFA-approved private football academy for children aged 3+, with league games for adults. 3067 7463, lfa.qa ✓
Frisbee
Team Qatar Ultimate Frisbee Lusail City A3 Meet-ups Sunday and Tuesday 7 pm, Friday 5 am. 3152 6632, qatarultimatefrisbee.com ✓
Gaelic Football
Qatar GAA (Oryx na hÉireann) Multiple locations Men's, ladies' and youth Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie; also organises events. See their Facebook/Instagram pages. ✓
Golf
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 9-hole putting course, Starting New At Golf programme, and Ecobioball to play and feed the fish. Open daily 9 am – 5 pm. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Corinthia Golf Club Gewan Island A3 Fully floodlit, 9-hole par 3 golf course with natural lakes and manicured greens. Open daily 7 am – 9 pm. corinthiagolfclub.qa
Doha Golf Club B3 18-hole championship course, 9-hole floodlit academy course, putting and chipping greens and world-class practice facilities. Coaching available with PGA professionals. The New Golfer Membership helps to get started. Open daily 6 am – 9 pm. 4496 0715, dohagolfclub.com ✓
Education City Golf Club C2 Designed by Jose Maria Olazabal, the course has an 18-hole Championship course, 6-hole Championship course and 9-hole par 3 course. The Centre of Excellence has a driving range installed with Power Tee automated teeing system and TrackMan technology. Lessons available with PGA professionals. The 9 hole par 3 course is floodlit for night golf. Open daily 6 am – 8 pm. ecgolf.com ✓
Gymnastics and Trampolining
Bounce Inc Tawar Mall C3 Indoor trampoline park, training classes, free jumping, dodgeball and more, for adults and children aged 3+. 4408 6500, bounce.qa ✓
SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Gymnastics classes for children aged 2+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓
The Gymnastics Academy Multiple locations For gymnasts of different abilities, aged 3+. Follows the British Gymnastics floor and vault syllabus but also trains on bars, beams and trampolines. gymacademydoha.com ✓
Hockey
Doha Hockey Club Multiple locations Welcomes players of all levels to play social hockey. Monday 7 pm, Friday 8 am, youngster programme for ages 5+ Friday/Saturday 8 am. dohahockeyclub.com ✓
Horse Riding Lessons and Camel Rides
Al Samriya Riding School Al Samriya Estate, next to Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani's farm in Al Sheehaniya. Lessons for adults and children, daily rides, pony club, trails and events; café; shop with equestrian items. 4490 2359, alsamriyariding.com ✓
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort Enjoy a leisurely horse or camel ride along the beach. 4476 5299, sealinebeachqatar.com ✓
Ice Hockey and Ice-Skating
Gondolania Ice Arena Villaggio D2 Public sessions and lessons at the Olympic size rink. 4450 7873, gondolaniaicearena.com ✓
Qatar International Ice Hockey League Villaggio D2 A fun, recreational league with organised games. qhockey.com
Kids Clubs
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Little Explorers' Kids Club has a mini gym with kid-friendly equipment, a large outdoor playground, cinema, and an edu-training lab. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com ✓
InterContinental Doha – The City B4 Aladdin Kids Club has games and activities for ages 5 – 12. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity ✓
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 The Titan Tikes Kids' Playroom offers games, toys, arts and crafts. For ages 4 –12. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz ✓
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha D4 Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North A4 The Rixy Kids Clubs have daily activities, treasure hunts, beach and pool games, arts and crafts and talent shows. 4429 8888, rixos.com/en/hotel-resort/rixos-gulf-hotel-doha; 4144 4444, allinclusive-collection.com ✓
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Doha
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Doha D4
Ritz-Kids offers young guests sports, a dedicated pool, safe play areas and creative workshops. 4425 6666, ritzcarlton.com/doha ✓
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 The Kids Camp has daily sports and activities for children over 4 and teenagers. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar A4 Activity programmes daily 10 am – 7 pm. 4020 4477, marriott.com/dohxp ✓
InterContinental Doha The City C4 Kickboxing, boxing, taekwondo and karate for children. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity ✓
Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Tai Chi and Muay Thai. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha
SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Kickboxing, karate and taekwondo for adults and children. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓
The Korea Taekwondo Centre Al Muthana Complex, Salwa Rd D3 Daily from 3 pm (except Friday). For adults and children aged 5+. See the Facebook group for details. 5556 3305 ✓
Multipurpose and Family Clubs
Aspire Zone Foundation D2 Public fields open daily 8 am – 9 pm; also football fields, basketball and volleyball courts, paddle boats, cycling tent and mini pitches. lifeinaspire.qa ✓
Dana Club C4 Basketball, mini-football, table tennis and volleyball facilities for members and their guests. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa ✓
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort The private Sports Academy has an indoor training facility and nine outdoor pitches, for professional athletes and sports teams. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa
Netball
Evo Sports Qatar Multiple locations For children aged 6+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Padel, Squash and Tennis
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor padel and indoor squash courts. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com ✓
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5
Synthetic tennis and padel courts. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Doha Oasis D4 Five indoor padel courts. Open Saturday to Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 4 pm – midnight. 5533 8830, dohaoasis.com ✓
First Fit Training Multiple locations For adults and children aged 4+. 3300 0779, fftsports.com ✓
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Complimentary racquets and balls for use on the outdoor Rebound Ace courts. 4485 8802, fourseasons.com/doha ✓
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa B4 Tennis and squash lessons, outdoor padel court. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com ✓
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex C4 Courts available for hire. The tennis school offers training for children aged 5+. 4440 9666, qatartennis.org ✓
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Two padel courts, one tennis court. Kids’ tennis lessons Saturday/Thursday by appointment. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz ✓
Padel Garden Doha Katara Cultural Village B4 Seven outdoor courts in Katara Hills. See their Instagram page. 4032 5528 ✓
Padel In Multiple locations Qatar’s first indoor padel club. Court hire can be booked online at thepadelin.com ✓
Padel Qatar Qatar Sports Club C4 Court hire can be booked online. 3381 2201, padelqatar.com ✓
Qatar Foundation C2 The Dome Padel Club is ladies-only daily 11:30 am – 5:30 pm, 7 pm at weekends; mixed slots 6:30 am – 11 am/6 pm – midnight. The Education City Golf Club padel courts are open daily 6:30 am – 10 pm. Make bookings at playtomic.io ✓
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Tennis training for groups and individuals; tennis and squash courts available for hire by the hour. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Indoor tennis and squash courts, outdoor padel court. Private and group lessons for adults and children, tennis socials. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Tennis and squash courts, lessons available. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast ✓
The St. Regis Doha B4 Tennis and padel court hire, lessons for adults and children aged 12+. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓
The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar A4 Padel court open daily 8 am – 10 pm. Packages available, rackets and ball cans can be rented/purchased. 4020 4477, marriott.com/dohxp
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 Two squash courts for hire. 4492 1682, westindoha.com ✓
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail A4 Four padel courts and two tennis courts. 4456 5656, hilton.com ✓
Rock Climbing
EsQalar Sports Aspire Academy D2 Qatar's first company for rock climbing sports, for adults and children aged 4+. Open daily 2 pm – 10 pm, except Wednesday. Advance booking required. 3388 2179, 5553 7177, esqalarsports.wordpress.com ✓
Rugby
Doha Rugby Football Centre Doha Sports Park B4 Mens' first/second/third/vets teams, ladies team, and minis/youth for children. doharfc.com ✓
Running, Athletics and Triathlon
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha C3 Two running tracks through the gardens (2.2 km and 1.5 km), with outdoor bootcamp equipment. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Doha Athletic Club Multiple locations All ages and abilities are welcome for informal meet-ups and training sessions. The club is run by Liz McColgan, 10,000m World Champion, Olympic Silver Medallist and now Director of Athletics at Qatar Foundation. See their Facebook page for details. ✓
Doha Bay Running Club Multiple locations Informal group meeting weekend mornings and weekday evenings, open to all. Join the Facebook group for details.
Katara Cultural Village B4 More than 2 km of walking/running track in Katara Hills. Please observe the dress code when visiting. katara.net ✓
Qatar Triathlon Federation Near University of Doha for Science and Technology B3 Events and development of the sport. 4447 5522, qatartriathlon.org ✓
TriClub Doha Multiple Locations Training and events starting each September. triclubdoha.com ✓
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Open water courses, scuba and diving courses, family and kids diving programmes. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Doha Sub Aqua Club (DSAC) Between Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha and Sharq Village & Spa D4 Qatar's British Sub Aqua Club. Diving trips, training and social events. Meets every Tuesday at 7 pm. See their Facebook page for details.
Poseidon Dive Center Hilton Doha C4 PADI courses, professional dive training, Rebreather programmes. 6608 4040, pdcqatar.com ✓
Shooting and Target Ranges
Al Hadaf Shooting Range Al Waab D3 Simulator, rifle, airgun, skeet and more. Open Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm – 8 pm. 4141 7777, alhadafrange.com
Al Ramii Shooting Club Lusail City A3 Shotgun, rifle, pistol and archery. Open Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm – 8 pm. 4495 3114, alramiiclub.qa
Lusail Shooting Club Lusail City A3 Open Sunday to Friday 4 pm – 8 pm. 4495 3114, qsaa.qa
Spinning
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Aqua spinning. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Fitness First City Center-Doha C4 Separate classes for men and women. 4411 5106, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 See the online schedule. 4485 8802, fourseasons.com/doha ✓
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Daily classes; booking is essential. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/doha
Swimming
Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton C4 Al Dafna's highest indoor pool on the 52nd floor; ladies only days available. 4004 7000, alephdoharesidences.curiocollection.com ✓
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor Grand Pool set in an oasis of indigenous trees, plus a daylight enhanced indoor pool. 4445 0000, marriott.com
AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton C1 Three outdoor pools: one for children with jumping water jets, one lap pool, and one relaxation pool. 4489 9000, alrayyanhilton.qa ✓
Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Hotel Collection D4 The rooftop pool is a tranquil retreat with views of Doha corniche and Al Dafna. 4009 9999, alwadihoteldoha.com
Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Classes for men, women and children; online schedule and registration. 4413 6219, aspireactiveqa.com ✓
Ability Friendly Qatar Foundation Recreation Center C2 and Al Khor Recreation Center. 1:1 lessons for persons with disabilities, aged 4+. 4454 1398, qf.org.qa/community/ability-friendly-program ✓
Hotel Doha – MGallery Hotel Collection
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5
100 m pool, water slides, kids water park, and a surf pool with lessons available. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Evo Sports Qatar Multiple locations For children aged 6+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Fairmont Doha A4 Indoor pool on the 5th floor, and wave pool. 4030 7200, fairmont.com/doha ✓
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Grotto and familyfriendly pools with water slides. 4485 8802, fourseasons.com/doha ✓
Grand Hyatt Doha B4 Three outdoor pools, two children's pools, and one indoor pool for adults. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com ✓
H2O Swim Club Multiple locations Competitive and leisure programmes, for adults and children aged 8 months+. 5564 1475, h2oswimclub.com ✓
InterContinental Doha – The City B4 Tailored swimming sessions for all ages and levels. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity ✓
Le Méridien City Center, Doha C4 Indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpool. 4041 3333, hilton.com ✓
Le Royal Méridien Doha A4 Outdoor pool, children's pool and whirlpool. 4141 6000, hilton.com ✓
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4
Eight outdoor pools, whirlpool bath and children's pool. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz ✓
Mondrian Doha A4 On the 26th floor, the pool shares the space with the gym. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha ✓
Park Hyatt Doha D4 Semi-covered pool on the 6th floor. 4009 1234, parkhyattdoha.com
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Lessons for children. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
Steigenberger Hotel Doha D4 Rooftop temperature-controlled pool and children's pool. 4020 1666, steigenberger.com ✓
Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha C4 Outdoor pool, aqua bike classes are available. 4000 8888, swissotelcornichedoha.com/purovel-spa-sport/ ✓
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort B4 60 m outdoor pool, one of the largest in Doha. 4144 7777, chedikatara.com ✓
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Indoor Junior Olympic pool and outdoor freeform pool. Instructors are available for classes. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast ✓
The St. Regis Doha B4 Olympic-sized pool and children's pool for use by guests and members. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓
The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar A4 Outdoor family and children's pools. 4020 4477, marriott.com/dohxp ✓
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 Four pools available, including indoor, outdoor, kids and waves pool. 4492 1682, westindoha.com ✓
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay C4 Indoor 26 m pool. 4008 9000, hilton.com ✓
For fishing see Leisure Activities in this section
365 Adventures Multiple locations Kayaking in Al Thakhira mangroves and other locations, stand up paddle (SUP) and kiteboarding. For ages 15+. 3339 3323, 365adventures.me ✓
Angry Dragons Qatar Katara Beach B4 The Pearl Island B4 New and seasoned paddlers always welcome. See their Facebook page for details.
AquaSports Qatar Multiple locations Kayaking in Al Thakhira mangroves and other locations, SUP and kiteboarding. Events and private parties. aquasportsq.com ✓
Azure Beach Doha Qetaifan Island North A4 A fun beach escape with infinity pool, cabanas, outdoor activities, sports bar and lounge games, live entertainment and DJs. Open daily 10 am – 7 pm; must be over 18 with valid Qatar ID or passport. 7080 7326, azure-beach.com/doha
Alwadi
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5
Beach sports and rides, SUP, kayaks, HamacLand Floating Lounge, and Pontoon Tea/Dinner. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Discover Arabia Adventure tours at Al Thakhira magroves, educational programmes for schools, mangrove planting and environmental clean-ups, kayaking, snorkelling and overnight camps. 3023 3207, discoverarabia.today ✓
Discover Qatar The destination management division of Qatar Airways offers tours and excursions with sun, sea and sand. 4423 7999, discoverqatar.qa ✓
Doha Beach Club C4 A family-friendly beach club in Al Dafna offering a wide range of water sports, activities, and entertainment, including Doha's largest floating park. Open daily 8 am – 11:30 pm. 5999 6122, discoverqatar.qa ✓
Doha Dragons Qatar Katara Beach B4 Paddling sessions according to the weather. Equipment is provided. See their Facebook page for details. ✓
Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton A one-of-a-kind resort on Qatar's northern coast, designed around the kitesurfing lifestyle. The beach destination is also a place to stay, dine and enjoy sports like volleyball, football, padel, and yoga. Open daily 10 am – 5 pm. fkb.qa
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park is one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East with 18 attractions and 56 rides and slides. Beach activities include kayaking, SUP , hydro bikes, football, tennis, basketball, volleyball and yoga. Check online first for seasonal opening hours. Pre-booking required, rides and slides subject to availability. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa ✓
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa B4 Jetskis, tubes, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, SUP and a water trampoline in the lagoon. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com ✓
Katara Beach B4 Waterskiing, kneeboarding, parasailing, jetskis, boat/gondola rides, sailing and kayaking. Open daily 3:30 pm – 11 pm; no swimming after sunset. Please observe the dress code when visiting. katara.net ✓
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Knee boarding, wakeboarding, kayaking, boat rides, pedal boat, hydrobike and SUP 4035 5555, kempinski.com/doha ✓
Qatar Dragon Boat The Pearl Island A4 Dragon boat team building, festivals and youth programmes. New members of all levels are welcome. 5505 2204, qatardragonboat.com ✓
Q-Explorer Multiple locations Mangrove kayaking, jet ski tours of Doha's Corniche, scuba diving, and dhow/yacht cruises. Events for schools, corporates, and private parties. 4472 5146, q-explorer.com ✓
Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North A4 Five acres of attractions, including the Meryal Waterpark featuring The Rig 1938, an 85-metre tower holding two Guinness World Records; open daily except Monday, noon – 8 pm. Also tube slides, wave pool, interactive river, live shows, private beach, beach club and restaurants. 4144 4444, allinclusive-collection.com; 4144 4000, meryalwaterpark.com ✓
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort Day visitors can use the pool areas and beach; activities include jet skis and boat rides. 4476 5299, sealinebeachqatar.com ✓
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Banana/donut rides, wakeboard, waterskiing, kayaks, jet skis, SUP, water bikes, cruises and fishing, and inflatable waterpark. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort B4 Exclusively for hotel guests with private beach, cabanas, 60m-long pool and water sport activities. 4144 7777, ghmhotels.com/en/katara ✓
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Outdoor lagoon pool, a large sandy beach with cabanas, and landscaped gardens offer guests a relaxing retreat. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast ✓
The St. Regis Doha B4 Banana/donut rides, wakeboard, waterskiing, kayaks, jet skis, SUP, parasailing, boat rentals. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail A4 The only private beach in Lusail City. The family water park has fountains, surfing stations and slides. 4456 5656, hilton.com ✓
Meryal Waterpark
Health and Wellness
Marhaba updates this section every issue, however details may change after going to press – check in advance. If your organisation is listed on these pages, email any changes to marhaba@marhaba.com. qa. Many of the locations can be found using the maps in this guide. Marhaba pocket maps can be purchased at bookshops and stores around town. Also see:
• Leisure Activities for dance classes, theme parks and play zones, and Sports Activities for fitness classes, gyms, clubs and associations – both are in this section.
• Places to Stay in the Hospitality, Hotels and Dining section for a list of hotels and fitness facilities.
• See our monthly hotel listings at marhaba.qa
Holistic Wellness
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 The Spa includes a ladies-only wellness retreat featuring hydro-thermal facilities and 'The Worlds' hydro-wellness areas (Oriental, Mystic, Mineral and Floral). 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5
Discover the best treatments for your dosha type, with the healing effects of Shirodhara and Abhyanga. Choose a traditional Thai therapies to restore the body's balance. 4040 5050, anantara.com
Doha Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island A4 Guests have the opportunity to discover their Longevity Index and receive advanced therapies and personalised packages for a successful wellness journey. 4020 4488, longevity-hub.cliniquelaprairie.com
Heenat Salma Farm Al Sheehaniya Meditation and sound healing, traditional movement and breath session (ladies only), and workshops and artisanal experiences using the farm's plants. 4441 1195, heenatsalma.earth
Raffles Doha A4 Biohacking treatment, also known as human enhancement, using lymphatic drainage and alpha/beta frequencies to improve health and wellbeing. Custom programmes available for body and mind. 4030 7100, rafflesdoha.com
Rosewood Doha B4 The Asaya Social Wellness Club brings together intentional experiences in fitness, spa, nutrition, and connection, balancing ancient remedies with contemporary rituals. 4030 3333, rosewoodhotels.com/en/doha
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay C4 Personalised consultations, Lemi quartz crystal bed, and Alphasphere sensory room. 4008 9000, hilton.com
Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som Al Ruwais
Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) is combined with modern therapies for natural, holistic healing. Retreats from 3 to 14 nights offer weight loss, nutrition and relaxation programmes, as well as fitness, yoga and Pilates. 4477 6500, zulal.com
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Yoga and Mindfulness, Meditation and Mindfulness, and mat and reformer Pilates. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Ashtanga, Hatha, yoga stretch and meditation. Booking essential. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Yoga on Tuesday/Saturday. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq
Fairmont Doha A4 Group classes, usually on Fridays. 4030 7200, fairmont.com/doha
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Sunset beach yoga for strength, flexibility, breathing and wellbeing, Friday 5 pm. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa
InterContinental Doha The City C4 Swasthi and body balance. Schedule changes weekly. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity
Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Mat Pilates, reformer, private reformer studio for one on one or partner sessions. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha
OxFitness Lab The Gate Mall C4 Ladies-only fitness hub with Pilates and barre available. 4020 6430, oxfitnesslab.com
The St. Regis Doha B4 Gender-specific yoga, Pilates, and Power Plate classes. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com
Vishnu Swasthi Yoga Studio Doha, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Hatha, power, slimming and detox. 3320 2331, vishnuswasthiyoga.com
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail A4 Zen Wellness Yoga Zone on the terrace and My Equilibria instinctive wellness training installation. 4456 5656, hilton.com
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay C4 Mindful meditation and yoga. 4008 9000, hilton.com
DINING
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (set menu)
• Mr. Tailor set menu included
• Crust: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM + snacks (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
LEISURE
• Pool & Beach Access (8:00 AM – Sunset)
• 1 Cabana (subject to availability)
• Sports classes, Rixy Kids Club & arcade
EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS
• Complimentary Access to Meryal Waterpark
• Free upgrade to Sea View (subject to availability)
• Early check-in + Breakfast
• Late check-out until 6 PM + Lunch
• 50% OFF Spa Treatments
ADDED VALUE
• 25% OFF Mr. Tailor & Room Service
• 20% OFF your next stay
Leisure Activities
Arts and Crafts
Arts and Crafts Center B3 A vibrant centre, offering art classes and workshops for all ages. Caters to events, birthdays, schools and universities. 4486 5201, artsandcrafts.qa ✔
Candela Entertainment for Music & Arts Excellence Tower C3 Formerly the Music & Arts Atelier, offers drawing and painting classes. 3300 3839, atelierqatar.com ✔
Fire Station C3 A contemporary art space committed to supporting artists, curators and the wider public through their residencies and public programmes. 4422 4222, firestation.org.qa
Heenat Salma Farm Al Sheehaniya Offers courses and workshops in botanical art, architectural sketching, colouring and more. 4441 1195, 5096 0007, heenatsalma.earth ✔
IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 Offers courses from beginner to advanced covering colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, visual art perception and portraits. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔
International Artists of Doha (IAD) Group for professional artists living in Qatar who get together and exhibit on a regular basis. See their Facebook page for more details. 6699 0122
International Arts and Music School Multiple locations Offers workshops in arts and crafts 7727 5999, 5058 1988, iamschoolqatar.com
Katara Art Center (KAC) Building 5, Katara Cultural Village B4 Courses and workshops in photography, printmaking, design, drawing, painting, ceramics and more. 4408 0244, dohakac.com ✔
Paint The Town Qatar Multiple locations A division of Trinity Talent Qatar. A leisurely event, where participants are taught how to paint. Each session consists of a different painting taught by an artist. 7759 1219, paintqatar.com
Prism Music and Arts D4 Art department offers drawing, painting and sculpting classes 3114 6999, prismmusicandarts.com ✔
Marhaba updates this information for every issue; however, details may change after going to press. Please check with the organisation concerned. If your organisation is listed, email any changes to marhaba@marhaba.com.qa. Many of the locations for the following listings can be found on the Map of Greater Doha in this guide. Marhaba pocket maps can be purchased at bookshops and stores around town.
✔ Indicates either an activity for children or an activity in which children can participate.
Qatar Art Center (QAC) C3 Art residency and art hub, founded in 1993 by HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. 4487 7477, qatarartcenter.org
Qatar Fine Arts Association Building 13, Katara Cultural Village B4 Aims to raise the level of scientific and technical artists, and maintain their production. See their Facebook page. 4408 1469 ✔
VCUarts Qatar Community Education Program C2 Courses in jewellery design, fashion design, dressmaking, drawing, Photoshop, Illustrator, watercolours and more. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu.edu
Visual Art Center D2 Acts under the umbrella of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, offers services in all aspects of visual art. It covers basic drawing techniques, painting, printmaking, graphic design and illustration, photography, ceramics, basic design and computer graphics. 4408 1388/471
Boat and Fishing Trips
Many tour companies offer half- and full-day dhow and fishing trips. Water sports are available at an extra cost. See Sightseeing in the Discovering Qatar section for tour companies and Sports Activities in this section for water sports.
Fishing and parasailing trips Call Bassel on 5551 8100
National Cruise Organises cruises and tours on the sea including dinner cruises, city tours, corporate cruises, birthdays and other special occasions as well as fishing and beach trips. 6600 0926, 7799 9666, nationalcruise.com ✔
Qatar Sea Angling Association Founded in 1987 to encourage anglers to meet up regularly to share knowledge, bait and tackle tips, and a little adventure fishing around Qatar as well as support local research. qsaa.net
Ronautica Middle East B4 Yacht charters, day boat charters and fishing trips. Contact the Harbour Master at The Pearl Island. 6674 1577, 4409 5279, ronauticame.com
Charities and Volunteering
All charities in Qatar must be officially registered. The Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA) is the governmental body responsible for overseeing and monitoring charitable activities in accordance with the State of Qatar’s general policy 16010, raca.gov.qa
• Thani Humanitarian (Thani Bin Abdullah Humanitarian Foundation/Sheikh Thani Bin Abdullah for Humanitarian Services Foundation RAF) D3 4444 3330, thanihumanitarian.org
Al Shaqab C2 Al Shaqab, a leading equestrian centre in Qatar, has a Friends of Al Shaqab Volunteer Program, which is open to residents of Qatar. Play an active role in organising and supporting events, while gaining valuable experience and skills. 4454 1992, alshaqab.com ✔
Animal Resources Department D4 The government vet has a trap-neuter-return (TNR) team and offers free treatments, neutering, spaying, vaccinating and microchipping. 184, 4426 1656
BarkinQ Run by a dog-loving couple, rescuing stray or abandoned dogs to rehome abroad – not a shelter. See their Facebook page for more details
Cat Lovers Qatar A group of volunteers who rescue injured, sick and dumped cats in Qatar with the aim to rehome them. They also neuter/spay cats and make sure any health issues are treated. See their Facebook and Instagram pages for more details.
DeapQatar Conservation The Doha Environmental Actions Project (Deap) is a team of volunteers seeking to restore the natural beauty of the beach and sand dunes in Qatar and raise awareness on the importance of preserving the environment. See their Facebook and Instagram pages for more details. ✔
Education Above All (EAA) Volunteers can be involved in one-time or ongoing initiatives – handson, or an administrative and support level – in Qatar and across Asia under EAA's Volunteer Program of Reach Out To Asia (ROTA). 4454 1603, educationaboveall.org ✔
Ezdehar Qatar Charity's volunteer initiative, working to raise awareness about the importance of volunteer work through providing training and courses to those interested in volunteering to nonprofit organisations. ezdehar.qcharity.org
Feed A Friend A non-profit grassroots initiative looking for volunteers and donations to help others with the distribution of food boxes, newborn care boxes, home learning packs, community fridges, grocery boxes and other generous community initiatives. feedafriend.org
Paws Rescue Qatar A group of individuals who rescue and rehome dogs and cats. pawsrescueqatar.org ✔
Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) A nonprofit organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of animals in Qatar. Funded by public donations along with support from volunteers, it is home to over 200 animals. 5539 6074, qaws.org ✔
Qatar Museums (QM) D4 Volunteers can attend events, training and exhibitions, and lead guided tours and experience behind-the-scenes opportunities. Registration is open to those 16 years old and above. Younger volunteers may join if they are supervised by a family member or guardian. 4422 4100, qm.org.qa ✔
Qatar National Library (QNL) C2 Offers many volunteering opportunities in its cultural and educational events. Registation is open for residents 16 years old and above. 4454 0100, registration.qnl.qa/volunteer-at-qnl ✔
Qatar Volunteers A volunteer group that participates in fundraising events, blood donation, beach cleanups, and disaster response. See their Facebook page for more details.
Qatar Voluntary B3 One of the youth centres of the Ministry of Sports and Youth. It strives to spread a volunteering culture to all members of the Qatari society through organising activities, programmes and events. 4467 4888, voluntary.qa ✔
TNR Qatar A volunteer organisation promoting trap-neuter-return (TNR), the humane solution to the cat overpopulation problem, saving cats lives. tnrqatar.com
Cinemas
Located in Gulf Cinema, the first cinema in Qatar, Qatar Cinema was established in 1970 and oversees cinemas in Qatar at Al Thumama Mall, The Mall, Royal Plaza and Katara Cultural Village. 4467 1620/25, qatarcinemas.com
For cinema listings, visit cinemaqatar.com, or download the Cinema Qatar app. Pre-book tickets at q-tickets.com, or download the QTickets app. Also check out Marhaba's Cinema Guide, marhaba.qa/cinema-listing-doha
Asian Town Cinema F3 Four cinemas with 500 seating capacity each. 4499 9013
Cineco 3, Al Khor Mall A 3-screen cineplex. 4029 6503/4453 3445
Cineco, City Center Doha C4 A 14-screen multiplex. 6503 6086, 4493 3355
Cineco, Gulf Mall C3 A 13-screen multiplex. 4031 0600
Flik Cinemas 4442 0838, flikcinemas.com
• Lagoona Mall B4 4443 2757
• Mirqab Mall D3 4434 0737
Katara Cinema, Building 49 B4 Luxurious cinema with four VIP theatres. 5028 5994
Novo Cinemas Call Centre 4031 5800, novocinemas.com/qatar
• Novo Cinemas, 01 Mall E3
• Novo Cinemas, Centro Qatar A3
• Novo Cinemas, Doha Oasis D4
• Novo Cinemas, Mall of Qatar C1
• Novo Cinemas, Msheireb Galleria D4
• Novo Cinemas, Place Vendôme A4
• Novo Cinemas, Souq Waqif D4
• Novo Cinemas, Tawar Mall C3
• Novo Cinemas, The Pearl Island B4
Qatar Cinema, Al Thumama Mall E4 A 5-screen cinema with a VIP screen. 4017 1614
The Cinema Palace, The Royal Plaza D3 A 3-screen cinema. 4432 0938
The Mall Cineplex D4 Three cinemas. 4467 8666
VOX Cinemas, Doha Festival City B2 4435 4444 qat.voxcinemas.com
Clubs (Recreational)
Al Jasrah Cultural and Social Club Souq Waqif D4 Established by the Ministry of Sports and Youth in 1960, the club is one of the oldest literary clubs in the Arab world and hosts many writers and intellectuals from the Arab world, offering free training courses in various creative areas such as writing, theatre and music. 4427 3124, 3318 1359, moc.gov.qa
Al Khor Community Al Khor A housing complex, offering excellent facilities to employees of QatarEnergy LNG and Al Khor International School (AKIS) with three clubs: Al Dhakira Club, Al Nakheel Club and Al Waha Club. 4473 4555, akcommunity.org
Al Khor Cultural Center Al Khor A cultural and social centre of the Ministry of Sports and Youth established in 1981 for men with specialised cultural activities, recreational and scientific programmes. It was expanded in 2006 to include a ladies section with social and cultural programmes. 4472 2015 (men's section), 4472 0362 (women's section)
Al Khor Girls Center Al Khor Established by the Ministry of Sports and Youth in 2012 as a youth centre to empower women and young girls, and highlight their abilities in commitment to Islamic customs and values by organising various activities and initiatives. 4472 0600, 7747 0887, kgc.org.qa ✔
Cineco, City Centre Doha
Dana Club D3 A private members club, offering families a place to relax, dine, exercise and play with a range of recreation facilities, restaurants, lounges, children’s activities and meeting rooms. Membership options are available and cater for singles, couples and families. 4496 0600/66, danaclub.com.qa ✔
Dukhan Recreation Club (DRC) Dukhan One of the oldest clubs managed by QatarEnergy (QE) and open to its staff only with several fitness and entertainment facilities. 4014 1879
Dukhan Water Sports Club Dukhan A sailing club for QE employees only. 4014 1894
Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) D3 Inaugurated in 1992, the centre is a meeting place for prominent Indian community members. 4468 6607, iccqatar.com
Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) Clubs Mesaieed For employees only at Al Banush Club. 4409 1777
Qatar Foundation (QF) C2 Recreational facilities at QF's Recreation Centre, Education City Club House, Awsaj Academy Recreation, Student Centre (Multaqa), Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK) Recreation, Qatar Academy Msheireb (QAM) Recreation, and The Dome Padel Club are open to the public and include various events for both children and adults, including fitness and sports classes, children’s activities, workshops and camps. 4454 0000, qf.org.qa ✔
SANAD Doha Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) D4 The private members club houses Dar Sanad, a premium lounge for client or business meetings; SAWA by Sanad, a Michelin-recognised Levantine restaurant; and Salat Al Aliya, a cigar lounge with a selection of premium cigars from around the world. 4142 7000, sanaddoha.com
The Diplomatic Club B4 Members can indulge in an array of facilities ranging from culinary delights, well-crafted events, salon and spa services, meeting and events halls, and recreational facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool, fitness classes, gym studios, a private beach, water sports and more. 4411 0312, thediplomaticclub.com ✔
Cooking and Culinary
Caramel Sweet Arts D3 A one-stop shop for home bakers and cake decorating enthusiasts, offering a variety of cake decorating and baking classes as well as a retail area with a large range of products and equipment for the cake decorating enthusiast. 4029 7509, 7047 3565, carameldoha.com
Heenat Salma Farm Al Sheehaniya Offers culinary classes in its artisanal kitchen with a 'farm to table' concept every Monday and Tuesday from 5 pm to 7 pm at QAR150 per person. 4441 1195, 5096 0007, heenatsalma.earth ✔
Leaders Cooking Academy D4 A cooking and barista academy and café as well as a hospitality and food consultancy. See their Instagram page. 3330 6677
Qatar Culinary Professionals (QCP) D3 An association representing professional chefs in the food service industry in Qatar. 4418 0654, qatarcp.org
The Cooking Academy (TCA) C3 A local culinary start-up providing cooking classes for professionals and food lovers. 4039 0497, cookingacademy.qa
Cultural and Language Courses
See Language and Education Courses in the Education section.
Dance and Music
Bailamos Salsa Asas Twin Towers C3 Teaches salsa, bachata and kizomba at all levels. See their Facebook and Instagram pages. 7040 4143
Brava Studio 22 La Croisette, The Pearl Island B4 Offers a wide variety of dance, dance fitness and aerial arts classes to all ages. 4002 2000, bravastudio.co ✔
Candela Entertainment for Music & Arts
Excellence Tower C3 Formerly the Music & Arts Atelier, provides salsa, bachata, tango, ballet, hip hop, oriental belly dance, heels dance, Irish dance and Afrobeat classes for all levels. 3300 3839, atelierqatar.com, candelaentertainment.com ✔
Emotion Dancing Academy Al Reem Tower C3 Formerly Yamativo Mambo Qatar, offers salsa, bachata, tango, Afrobeat, modern dance, and street dance classes for all levels. See their Instagram page for more details. 5554 0533 ✔
Fitness First City Centre Doha C4 Offers a wide variety of dance including Irish, Bollywood, modern and more. 4411 5999, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com
IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 Classical and contemporary dances of India, jazz, classical ballet; contemporary, dance and hip hop for teens and kids. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔
International Centre for Music (ICM Qatar) Multiple locations Offers courses to learn the solos and variations in classical as well as contemporary ballet. 4467 1354, 4490 7878, icmqatar.com ✔
Prism Music and Arts D4 A performing arts academy for music, arts and dance. 3114 6999, prismmusicandarts.com ✔
Salsa n Candela Excellence Tower C3 By Candela Entertainment for Music & Arts, provides salsa, Cha-Cha, bachata, Brazilian Zouk, kizomba, tango and other latin dance classes. 3300 3839, salsancandela.com
Skills Development Centre (SDC) D3 Offers Indian classical dance, modern dance, classical music, fine arts, karate, yoga, etc. 4441 3955, sdcqatar.org ✔
Swasthi Academy D3 Provides training in classical and contemporary dance forms, classical and instrumental music genres, and martial arts, as well as wellness programmes. 5077 0025, swasthiacademy.com ✔
Some hotels and resorts in Qatar offer dance classes – check with your chosen venue for details.
Debate Clubs and Centres
Al Banush Club Toastmasters Online meetings on the first and third Tuesday every month at 6:30 pm. 3354 6316, toastmasters.org
Al Khor Toastmasters Club Meetings on the second and fourth Monday every month at 7 pm on Zoom. 5563 8213, 6678 2272, toastmasters.org
Birla Gavel Club Birla Public School D4 One of the US-registered Gavel Clubs in Qatar with 45 permanent student members from classes 7 to 12, conducting programmes such as debates, group discussions, Just-A-Minute (JAM), table topics, prepared speeches, etc. 7727 9583, bpsdoha.com ✔
Doha Debates C2 A Qatar Foundation (QF) initiative founded on focusing on reaching solutions through live debates, videos, blogs and podcasts 4454 2844, dohadebates.com
Doha Gavels Club D4 Toastmaster club for children. Part of Doha Toastmasters Club. 5572 0680 ✔
Doha Toastmasters Club D4 Meetings on first and third Saturday from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm on Zoom. 5516 9399, doha.toastmastersclubs.org
QatarDebate Center C2 A member of QF and the national debating organisation for Qatar. qatardebate.org
Qatar Toastmasters Club D4 Meetings on the first and third Sunday every month at 7 pm – 9:30 pm on Zoom. 7400 6238, toastmasters.org
Drama, Film and Theatre
Doha Film Institute (DFI) B4 Offers programmes, workshops and labs in acting, screenwriting and other aspects of filmmaking. dohafilminstitute.com ✔
Film and Theater Academy Multiple locations Offers acting classes, workshops and courses for adults and children. See their Facebook page for more details. 7751 9168 ✔
Mockingbird Academy C2 Delivers a high-quality performing arts programme and classes. 4407 6851, mockingbirdacademy.com ✔
Theater Affairs Center D3 Established by the Ministry of Culture in 2016, the centre aims to develop and educate theatre talents with professional theatre skills. 4405 5720
The Doha Players C2 A not-for-profit community theatre producing plays and musicals for the benefit of volunteers and audiences alike. Open daily 10 am – 9 pm. thedohaplayers.com ✔
The Drama Club by The Doha Players C2 Provides drama classes for young people aged between 6 and 17. dohadrama.com ✔
Groups and Associations
1st Doha Scout Group, British Scouting Overseas (BSO) Delivers an active programme of indoor and outdoor activities for English-speaking children aged 6 – 18 years from all backgrounds. 1st-doha-scout-group.org ✔
Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar (AYCM Qatar) C4 Established in 2015, AYCM Qatar is an independent, non-profit, think-and-do-tank for environmental awareness and advocacy, research, and policy analysis. aycmqatar.org ✔
British Chamber of Commerce Qatar (Formerly Qatar British Business Forum – QBBF) Supporting trade between the UK and Qatar, QBBF is a socially active organisation representing a broad membership. qbbf.com
British Community Foundation (BCF) A non-profit initiative focused on supporting and celebrating the British community and its links with Qatar, working closely with the British Embassy. bcfqatar.com
British Guides in Foreign Countries (BGIFC) For girls only, aged 5 – 14 years. bgifc.org.uk, dess.org ✔
The Doha Players
Society of Al Gannas
BSA Scout Troop 970 A scout-led, adult-guided organisation chartered by the American School of Doha (ASD), with applications open for Boys Troop 970, Girls Troop 970, and adult volunteers. qatarbsa.org ✔
Canadians in Qatar Bringing Canadians of Qatar together through social events by holding monthly social events. Join their private group on Facebook.
Doha Women Forum (DWF) A platform where women from various backgrounds share ideas, empower and inspire one another, and learn from industry leaders and professionals. It hosts the largest event for women in Qatar, the Doha Women Forum, annually. 6616 1692, dohawomenforum.com
Dutch Speaking Association of Qatar (DSA)
Welcomes those who speak Dutch. dsaqatar.org
Expat Women in Qatar Organises meetups and events for expatriate women. expatwoman.com ✔ How Women Work (HWW) Aims at empowering women to grow and succeed by supporting their mental health. 5057 9078, hwwglobal.com
IAM Filipina A non-profit and volunteer-based Filipina group established to guide and support Filipinas to succeed in their career through mentoring, coaching, events and outreach activities. iamfilipina.org
Indian Women's Association, Qatar (IWA Qatar) Exchange expertise in various cultural social fields. iwaqatar.com
Lebanese Community in Qatar (LCIQ) A community group with more than 8,000 members for all things Lebanese in Qatar. Join their private group on Facebook.
Qatar Expat Women Community Helps women with the transition from their homeland to Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details. ✔
Qatar Irish Society Organises social, sporting and cultural events throughout the year in order to promote closer relations in the Irish community in Qatar. Join their private group on Facebook.
Qatar Professional Women's Network (QPWN)
An informal networking group for women in Qatar. qpwn.org
Qatar Scouts and Guides Association Promotes the scouting and guiding movement through offering youth-targeted and programmes.
4404 5896, scoutsqatar.edu.gov.qa ✔
Qatar Social The largest social community in Qatar for expatriates and locals that hosts free networking events and meet-ups for members to socialise and make new friends. Join their private Facebook group.
Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) A nonprofit, non-governmental organisation that unites Qatari business leaders, with membership open to Qatari nationals aged 30 and above. 4435 3120, qataribusinessmen.org
Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) An independent non-profit entity working under the umbrella of the QBA. Hosts regular meetings, networking programmes, events and conferences. Membership is open to Qatari and non-Qatari female residents of Qatar. 5589 6144, qbwa.qa
Qatari Society of Al Gannas Building 13, Katara Cultural Village B4 A cultural association for falconers, representing Arab falconers internationally, supporting events and competitions, and promoting research in falconry through advanced facilities and expertise. 4408 1490, algannas.net
Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions including St Andrew's Night Ball, Burns Supper and summer ceilidhs. scotsinqatar.com
Sudanese Doctors Association in Qatar (SUDAQ)
A formal association of Sudanese professionals that organises professional, business, social and cultural events for the Sudanese community in Qatar. 5532 3245, sudaq.org
Sudanese Women's Association (SWA) in Qatar
A formal association of Sudanese women in Qatar that organises social and cultural events for the Sudanese community in Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details
SvenskariQatar (Swedish Association of Qatar)
Regular gatherings and social events for children and adults. See their Instagram page for more details. ✔
Tuesday Ladies Group (TLG) Founded in 1976, an English-speaking network of women in Qatar offering a range of events, activities and interest groups to form new friendships, develop new skills, and share advice and local knowledge. Meets every alternate Tuesday from September to May. Summer Coffee Mornings held from May to August. tuesdayladiesgroup.com
Qatari
Women’s Circle C4 An experience by Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel and life coach Anahi aimed at bringing women in Qatar together to share each other's journeys in a safe and enriching environment. linktr.ee/womenscircle.qa
Groups (Hobbies)
Children's Literature Center Affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, the centre was established in 2012 as the first children’s literature centre in Qatar. Holds reading and writing activities for children. See their Facebook page. 6607 7488 ✔
Doha Skaters A community of professional and amateur skaters or roller bladers led by Coach Ahmed Alghorab, commonly found on Lusail Marina. Hosts events and training. See their Instagram and Facebook pages. 7701 3335 ✔
Doha Stitches A ladies only sewing and crafting charity group where members use their sewing and crafting skills to give back. Join their private Facebook group.
Doha Writers' Workshop A community of teachers, students and professionals interested in writing, reading and the art of sharing experiences through words. Join their private Facebook group. ✔
Flower Each Spring Formerly known as Friends of Nature, celebrates a flower from Qatar’s environment every year. Launched in 1999, the programme is directed at children and nature lovers, organising trips to Ras Al Matekh, Al Khor. 7002 0543, flowereachspring.org ✔
Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) C3
Established in 1992 by the Ministry of Sports and Youth as a non-profit organisation dedicated to environmental protection and conservation. 4487 4125, 3332 4424, msy.gov.qa (Arabic) ✔
Gery's Sports (Qatar Roller Skating) Multiple locations Offers roller skating classes to all levels. See their Facebook and Instagram pages for more details. 7774 2004 ✔
Hadiqaa C2 Manages and operates out of the Education City Microfarm. Includes a 50 bed community garden, and a 10 bed greenhouse and teaching space, which hosts workshops and events for individuals and schools. 5020 2681, hadiqaa.com ✔
Heenat Salma Farm Al Sheehaniya Offers courses and workshops in multi-shafting weaving, palm weaving, silk painting, sadu weaving, handbuilding clay, pottery and more. 4441 1195, 5096 0007, heenatsalma.earth ✔
HOG Qatar Chapter D3 (Harley Owners Group®) Aims to increase the level of enthusiasm toward Harley Davidson motorcycles. 4463 2429/28, harley-davidsondoha.com
Qatar Arabic Language Society Katara Cultural Village B4 Established in 2022 to become the first civil cultural association specialised in supporting the Arabic language and implementing initiatives and activities that contribute to the dissemination and advancement of Arabic in Qatar. 182, katara.net
Qatar Billiards & Snooker Federation (QBSF) D4 Founded in 1991 to establish a base of players who are able to lead the sport of billiards, pool and snooker. qbsf.qa
Qatar Camel Mzayen Club C3 Established by the Ministry of Sports and Youth, the club supports camel activities and races, works to develop camel farms and activities, organise local camel festivals, participate in regional and international festivals, and more. The Mzayen Club app is available on iOS and Android. 3237 5118, qcamelmc.qa
Qatar Chess Association D4 Founded in 1985, it is a national member of FIDE and the Asian Chess Federation. Chess training and tournaments for children. 7788 9522 (WhatsApp), qatarchess.qa ✔
Qatar Duners Connect with other bikers, and take on the dunes. Join their private Facebook group.
Qatar Flying Club Al Khor A private flying company at Al Khor Airport, offering pilot training, gyro-copter training and weight shift, discovery flights from above, and private pilot’s licence. 4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net
Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) Lusail International Circuit A3 The federation organises motor and motorcycling rallies, and accepts volunteers interested in marshalling at the rallies. 4437 9885, qmmf.com
Qatar Natural History Group (QNHG) Share a broad range of interests including archaeology, geology, botany, marine life, conservation and the natural world. qnhg.org ✔
Qatar Camel Mzayen Club
Qatar Reads
Qatar Photographic Society (QPS) Building 18, Katara Cultural Village B4 Photographic courses in English and Arabic, call for current schedule. Also ad hoc exhibitions. Call or visit for details of course fees. 4408 1812, katara.net
Qatar Photography Center Building 18, Katara Cultural Village B4 Established in 2021 by the Ministry of Culture as Akkas Photography Center, it offers courses and workshops with the aim of improving and enriching the local photography scene. 5525 3728, 4408 1812, qpc.qa
Qatar Poetry Center (Diwan Al Arab) C4 Operating under the Ministry of Culture, the centre works to promote poetry and literature, taking into account Qatar's literary heritage, and be the right platform for Qatari poets to develop and succeed. 4405 5738, 6656 4777, diwanalarab.qa
Qatar Quilt Guild A guild of ladies meet for sewing and technique workshops and contests. See their Facebook page for more details.
Qatar Reads C2 Previously known as the National Reading Campaign (NRC), Qatar Reads is a programme by Qatar Foundation (QF) that hosts a variety of outreach initiatives to communicate the importance of reading and create interest in reading among all residents. qatarreads.qa ✔
Qatar Scientific Club E3 Established in 1987, it offers training programmes, workshops, and activities in STEM education (mathematics, information technology, engineering and mathematics). Children aged 9 – 12 can join the Children’s Club. 4469 6200, qsc.org.qa (Arabic) ✔
Qatar Skating – Extreme Sports D4 A roller and quad skating school, offering top-quality instruction on roller skating for children and adults. See their Facebook and Instagram pages for more details. 5583 1199 ✔
Stand Up Comedy Qatar (SUCQ) Qatar’s own stand-up comedy club. It promotes local comedians and hosts occasional stand-up comedy shows. See their Facebook and Instagram pages. 3370 3012
The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar Officially recognised by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. Join events, activities and outings. qatarelvisfans.qa
Words & Strings The first spoken word society in Qatar with a bilingual outlet for poets, spoken word artists, and musicians. Holds monthly open poetry and music nights. wordsandstrings.xyz
Youth Hobbies Center Katara Cultural Village D4 Photography programmes for teens. Basic skills required. See their Instagram page for more details 4408 1812 ✔
Health and Fitness
See Sports Activities and Health and Wellness in this section for comprehensive listings of activities and classes.
Libraries
Academic libraries can be found at the following universities, which are accessible to the general public, but with restrictions:
• GU-Q Library, Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) C2 4457 8280, library.qatar.georgetown.edu
• HBKU Library, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) C2 4454 6644, hbku.edu.qa/en/hbku-library
• NU-Q Library, Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) C2 4454 5090, qatar.northwestern.edu
• TAMUQ Library, Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) C2 4423 0040, library.tamu.edu/qatar
• The Library, Qatar University (QU) C3 4403 6338/4097, qu.edu.qa/library
• VCUQatar Library, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) C2 4402 0587, qatar.vcu.edu/library
British Council Qatar D3 Information Centre has books, magazines, videos, DVDs and internet access. 800 5501, britishcouncil.qa ✔
Dar Al Kutub Al Qatariya D4 The oldest national library in the Gulf region, reopened in Al Rufaa in March 2025. It showcases rare books and manuscripts, in addition to other books documenting the history of Dar Al Kutub. 4402 2138, daralkutub.qa
House of Wisdom at Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som Al Ruwais Inspired by the historic Grand Library of Baghdad, it is home to over 4,000 books about the benefits of good health, traditional healing cultures, science, holistic medicine and more in English, Arabic and other languages. Open to staying guests only. 4477 6500, zulal.com
Institut Français du Qatar B3 Provides information about different aspects of French and French-speaking culture and civilisation: literary, artistic, social, scientific and technical. 4493 0862, institutfrancais-qatar.com ✔
Maktaba Qatar C3 As the first public children's library, it is a space where imagination comes to life through books, play and programming for children of all ages. 4427 8810, maktabaqatar.org ✔
Mathaf Library C2 A research library specialising in modern and contemporary Arab art from the region with one of the largest and most comprehensive collection of books and publications on art history and modern art worldwide. Publications are in English, Arabic and other languages. 4402 8830, mathaf.org.qa
MIA Library D4 Consists of specialist books on Islamic art, art reference books, museum collection and exhibition catalogues and monographs, scholarly periodicals on art and related areas including auction house catalogues. Publications are in English, Arabic and other languages. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa ✔
National Museum of Qatar Library D4 Comprises over 30,000 books with four collections – Rare Books, Special Qatari Heritage Collection, Antique Gastronomy Collection and Object Handling – in addition to a reading room. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa
Qatar Digital Library (QDL) C2 Developed as part of a 10-year partnership between Qatar Foundation (QF), Qatar National Library (QNL) and The British Library, QDL is a free and vast archive featuring the cultural and historical heritage of the Gulf and wider region freely available online for the first time. It includes archives, maps, manuscripts, sound recordings, photographs and more, complete with contextualised explanatory notes and links, in both English and Arabic. qdl.qa
Qatar National Library (QNL) C2 Gives residents access to nearly one million books, periodicals, and special collections. Register with RP/ID at library.qnl.qa/selfreg. QNL members can pick up a membership card. 4454 0100, qnl.qa ✔
Music Centres, Groups and Choirs
Doha Chamber Choir A cappella choir has vacancies for all voice parts, especially tenor. Rehearses weekly from September to June. Varied repertoire. Performs for booked events only (weddings, parties, etc). 7011 8887, qatarconcertchoir.com
Doha Community Music Ensembles A full size symphony orchestra and wind symphony for amateur musicians. Open to new members of all ages and nationalities. 3385 7784, dcmeqatar.com ✔
Doha Jazz Performs several genres of jazz and other styles such as blues, Arabic and classical music. 5571 0746, dohajazz.com
Drumming Qatar Teaching African djembe drumming and rhythm. Open to all. Contact Patrick Dilley on 3384 2330, drummingqatar.com ✔
IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 Music courses include piano, keyboard, guitar and vocals in Western notations, following the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months by LCM examiners. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔
International Centre for Music (ICM Qatar) Multiple locations Offers classes in piano, keyboard, violin, guitar and music theory, as well as voice lessons. 4490 7878, icmqatar.com ✔
Music Affairs Centre D3 Established in 2016 under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, it aims to raise awareness of music culture and its importance in society. 4478 9356, qmusic.qa
Music Square 51 East, Lagoona Mall B4 Offers a selection of the world’s best music and pro audio brands. It is also home to the Yamaha Music School, which offers various piano, guitar, and other lessons or courses. See their Facebook page for more details. 4433 5598, 51east.com/eng/music-square.html ✔
Qatar Concert Choir A not-for-profit audition choir performing a wide range of classical and contemporary choral music. qatarconcertchoir.com
Qatar Little Voices Led by the director of Qatar Youth and Junior Choirs, Little Voices is a lively once-weekly music appreciation programme and a pre-choir entry class for young children. Class size is limited. 4036 3139, hub@sisq.qa ✔
Qatar Music Academy (QMA) Katara Cultural Village B4 Member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and Qatar's leading academy of music, offering comprehensive music education programme, which draws on practice and music theory, and incorporates both Arab and Western classical music curriculum. 4454 8191, qatarmusicacademy.com.qa ✔
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) C2 Member of QF, founded in 2007 by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. It consists of more than 100 musicians chosen by a jury of international music professionals. They perform western and Arabic music in local and international settings. 4454 8185, qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org
Qatar Youth and Junior Choirs Qatar Youth Choir is for singers aged 14 – 18, singing from the great classical and contemporary choral repertoires. Qatar Junior Choir is for singers aged 8 – 13 years and is the feeder choir to the senior Qatar Youth Choir. qyj-choir.com, qatarconcertchoir.com ✔
Siwar Choir Qatar's leading Arabic youth choir established by JeemTV, formerly known as Al Jazeera Children's Channel (JCC), bringing together Arabic traditions with fresh and exciting music. jeemtv.net ✔
The Doha Singers A choral group that presents several concerts every year. dohasingers.com
Theme Parks and Play Zones
Entry fees and opening timings change per season. Call ahead and check for up to date information.
Adventure Park Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 For adrenaline seekers, featuring zip line courses, climbing walls, giant swing, bouncing nets, rope course, free fall, airbag jump, tubby jump, and human slingshot. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 8 pm. Admission: Adults QAR250, children aged 5 and above QAR150. Not suitable for children below 5. 4040 5041, adventureparkdoha.com ✔
Adventure Rooms Qatar D4 60-minute real life escape room game. Solve puzzles, find keys, and beat the clock to escape. Suitable for ages 7 and above. Opening hours: Daily 11 am – 11 pm. Admission: QAR600 per hour for 2-7 players –QAR100 per person for 6-7 players to QAR300 per person for 2 players. 7050 0139, adventureroomsqa.com ✔
Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas Features 18 attractions with 30 rides and slides. Opening hours: Daily 10 am –6 pm. Admission: Juniors (below 1.2 m in height) QAR195, adults QAR250, group of four QAR500. Ladies Night on Wednesdays 7 pm – 11 pm: adults QAR195, juniors (below 1.2 m in height) QAR150. Extra charges for lockers and towels. Pre-booking is required and tickets can be purchased online. Access to adventure attractions such as canyoning, diving, go-karting and laser tag are not included in the general admission ticket and can be purchased separately on site. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa ✔
Doha Quest Doha Oasis D4 A 32,000 sq m indoor theme park with more than 30 rides and attractions, featuring a mix of adrenaline-heavy thrill rides, media-controlled simulators, virtual reality experiences, and family-friendly attractions. Quest’s signature rides are the EpiQ Coaster, crowned as the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster, the Magma Blast, the world’s tallest indoor drop tower, and new indoor skydiving attraction iFLY Quest. Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday 8:30 am – 6 pm, Thursday 8:30 am – 10 pm, Friday and Saturday 2 pm – 10 pm, closed on Sunday. Admission: Junior Ticket (4 – 12 years old) QAR160, Adult Ticket (13 years old and above) QAR235, children 4 and below enter for free. 4410 3444, dohaquest.com ✔
Farah Multiple locations A full indoor theme park that combines the typical Family Entertainment Center (FEC) environment with Various Activity Rooms (VAR) designed to encourage imaginative play, social and pretend play opportunities, skill development and other open-ended play opportunities. Opening hours: Daily 1 pm –10 pm. Admission: Playing card with QAR100 minimum charge. Top-up avaliable. 4427 2807/ 4017 8934, farahqatar.com ✔
KidZania Doha Aspire Zone D2 A 5,500 sq m child-sized city where children aged 1 – 14 can perform real-life tasks with more than 60 handson activities. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 11 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm, closed on Sunday. Admission: QAR95 for adults aged 17 and above, and children aged 2 – 3, QAR160 for children aged 4 – 16, and free for children 1 and below. 4482 6222, doha.kidzania.com ✔
Lusail Winter Wonderland Al Maha Island, Lusail City A4 Jam-packed with festive fun, over 50 rides and attractions, food and drink, and live entertainment presented by Qatar Airways. Opening hours: Opens only in winter; Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm – 11 pm, Thursday and Friday 4 pm – 1 am, closed on Monday. Admission: Purchase of the entry wristband is required in advance online. Topup of wristbands is available online and at the entry gate. 6659 4249, lusailwinterwonderland.com ✔
Doha Quest
Meryal Waterpark Rixos Qetaifan Island North, Lusail City A4 An expansive waterpark, spanning over 281,000 sq m, featuring 36 waterslides and the tallest water slide in the world, the Iconic Tower stands at 85 m with 12 waterslides. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10 am – 6 pm, closed on Monday. Admission: Adults QAR310, Junior (1.2 m and below) QAR245 and free for children aged 2 and below. Buy tickets online to save QAR50 per ticket. 4144 4000, meryalwaterpark.com ✔
OliOli®Doha Katara Cultural Village B4 The gift box-shaped recreation centre is an experiential children’s play museum with hands-on activities to inspire positive play where children are free to wander, wonder and discover in six spaces – Kinetic Gallery, Water Gallery, Fitness Gallery, teamLab Future Park, Creative Lab, and WonderSphere – designed to foster their creativity, curiosity and imagination. Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 1 pm – 9 pm, closed Sunday and Monday. Admission: QAR135 for children aged 2 –16, QAR67 for children aged 12 – 23 months, two hours access with one free adult included, QAR45 for extra adult above the age of 16 4408 1266, olioli.qa ✔
Qatar Bowling Center (QBC) D4 The 2,000 sq m bowling facility is operated and managed by the Qatar Bowling Federation (QBF), and is the official training ground of the Qatar National Bowling Team. The centre includes 32 bowling lanes, billiards, snooker, table tennis and mini football as well as ProShop, offering a variety of branded bowling equipment. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 2 pm – midnight, Thursday 2 pm –1 am, Friday 6 pm – midnight, Saturday noon –midnight. Admission: QAR35 per hour; QAR8 per game from 2 pm – 4 pm; QAR12 per game from 4 pm onwards. Shoe rental is free of charge, QAR3 for bowling socks. 4435 3054/3336 2722, qatarbowlingcenter.com ✔
WOW Park Lusail Boulevard, Lusail City A4 From high-flying thrills, such as the gravity-fuelled Zip Coaster and the GCC’s highest indoor climbing wall, to immersive experiences such as the Exploration Caves and Laser Tag, the indoor World of Wonders (WOW) family entertainment centre also features a dedicated toddler zone, Doha’s first and only mini-bowling alley, and the newest release of state-of-the-art arcade games. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday noon – midnight, Friday 2 pm – midnight. Admission: Entry is free with charges per game, activity or experience. 4000 1109, wowpark.qa ✔
Yippy Land Entertainment Palms Mall D2 and 17 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl Island B4 From arcade video games to redemption prizes and unique novelties – there's something for everyone. Every Monday, play selected games for just QAR1. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 11 am –10 pm, Thursday 10 am – 10:30 pm, Friday 12:30 pm – 10:30 am, Saturday 10:30 am –10 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 6647 2101 (Palms Mall), plgtrade.com ✔
Abu Sidra Mall E2
Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4427 0491, abusidramall.com ✔
Al Thumama Mall E4
300 Bowling Center Includes bowling alleys, pool tables, and a PlayStation gaming area. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 3 am, Friday 1 pm – 3 am. Admission: QAR15 per person per game. Additional QAR3 for shoes and QAR2 for socks. 3363 3838, linktr.ee/300bowling ✔
Battle Zone Entertainment Indoor paintball court for those aged 7 and above. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 4 pm – 10 am, Thursday 4 pm – midnight, Friday 2 pm – midnight, Saturday 2 pm – 10 pm. Admission: QAR50 for children aged 7 – 13, and QAR100 for adults aged 13 and above. 7741 0774, battlezoneqa.com ✔
New City Entertainment Indoor family entertainment centre with more than 80 games. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday noon –10 pm, Thursday and Friday 2 pm – midnight. Admission: Playing card with QAR100 minimum charge with 'one game for one riyal' policy for 72 hours only. 6600 4616 ✔
Meryal Waterpark
City Center Doha C4
Fun City Rides, activities and video games for the whole family. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – midnight. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game. 4483 9501, citycenterdoha.com ✔
InflataPark Qatar’s first indoor inflatable park inside a mall. The 3,400 sq m custom-designed inflatable park. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 12:30 pm –midnight. Admission: Prices range from QAR75 to QAR250. 5113 8418, inflata-park.com ✔
Kids City Driving School A full-on driving adventure packed with fun and excitement for kids of all ages Designed for young drivers with: Real traffic lights, roundabouts and over 20 road signs, twoseater mini cars for solo or shared rides, driving simulators for high-speed fun, six soft play zones, slides, and a towering view, photo booth and café Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: Prices range from QAR35 to QAR250. 5113 8418, citykidsdriving.com/ ✔
Doha Festival City B2
Angry Birds World First Angry Birds World, featuring over 20 rides and attractions for all ages. Opening hours: Indoor: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm – midnight; Outdoor: Saturday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 1 pm – midnight. Admission: QAR100 individual card, QAR250 family card with minimum QAR50 top-up value. 4042 0444, angrybirdsworld.qa ✔
Caboodle Pamper & Play Indoor edutainment playground, café and kiddie salon. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Stay & Play (up to 12 years) supervised by an adult 12+ years) QAR65 first hour, QAR35 additional hours. Guardian Rate QAR25 (first hour), supervised by an adult 12+ years; Drop & Shop (1 – 12 years of age) QAR95, supervised by Caboodle staff. 4482 3233, caboodle.qa ✔
Snow Dunes A snow park at -4˚C all year round, themed around a fantastical Arabian town, complete with an Arabian-style castle. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm –midnight. Admission: Silver Package QAR180 per person, Gold Package QAR240 per person, Platinum Package QAR450 per person. 4035 4444, snowdunes.qa ✔
Spark Sense and Play An indoor all-rounded centre with a playground, creative workshops and café where a child can play, learn, and create. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – 11 pm (closed during Friday prayers). Admission: QAR80 per child and extra fee for workshops. 4488 7233, thesparkplay.com ✔
Virtuocity A digital gaming hub equipped with full motion racing simulators, escape rooms and a multipurpose eSports arena. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm – midnight. Admission: Sunday to Wednesday Day Pass QAR150, Thursday to Saturday Day Pass QAR200; PC and Console Gaming Arenas QAR50 – QAR150 (per hour). 4042 0499, virtuocity.qa ✔
Doha Mall E3
Action Land Soft play area by 360 Play. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 1 pm – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 11 pm. Admission: QAR15 (20 mins), QAR25 (30 mins), QAR50 (1 hour). 4000 3100, dohamall.com ✔
Rocket Tower A ball pit by 360 Play where children can climb the high standing rocket tower, and slide down to dive into the sea of balls. Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am – midnight. Admission: 14 years of age and below. Prices range from QAR30 to QAR180. 5061 1526, 360-play.me ✔
Kids City Driving School
Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4479 6754, gharrafa.ezdanmall.qa ✔
Ezdan Mall, Al Wakra F5
Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4483 2593, wakra.ezdanmall.qa ✔
JumpTastic An indoor trampoline park. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Saturday 10 – 11 pm, Friday 10 am – 11 am/12:30 pm – 11 pm. Admission: 1-hour session QAR75, 2-hour session QAR140 and QAR250 open session; laster tag QAR50 for 12 mins. 4416 5761, linktr.ee/jumptastic.qa ✔
Kids Corner A unique indoor play environment for children ages 1 to 7. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 8 am – 8 pm, Friday 3 pm – 8 pm. Admission: QAR60 per hour. 7775 9824, kidscornerqatar.qa.com ✔
Gulf Mall C3
GOFUN Qatar An indoor facility, providing a variety of play areas and game machines. Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 1 pm – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm, Saturday 11 am – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4031 0651, gulfmalldoha.com ✔
Hyatt Plaza D2
Jungle Zone An indoor playground with rides for different age groups and a video arcade area. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday noon – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4499 9699, hyattplaza.com ✔
J Mall B3
300 Bowling Center Includes bowling alleys, pool tables, and a PlayStation gaming area. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 3 am, Friday 1 pm – 3 am. Admission: QAR15 per person per game. Additional QAR3 for shoes and QAR2 for socks. 6007 0300, linktr.ee/300bowling ✔
Lagoona Mall B4
SatisFACTORY A sensory and immersive space with slime and AMAZE areas with six interactive
rooms and an immersive VR Arena. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 11:30 pm. Admission: 4 and above. QAR130 (general admission); QAR155 (prime admission) per hour (single entry). Children (4 – 9) QAR65 per hour, and must be accompained by an adult. See their Instagram page ✔
Landmark Mall C3
Circusland Has rides, games, trampolines and a large activity zone suitable for the whole family. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 1 pm – 11 pm, Saturday 9 am –10 pm. Admission: Tokens per game/activity. 4487 6111/6333, landmarkdoha.com ✔
JumpTastic An indoor trampoline park. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Saturday 10 – 11 pm, Friday 10 am – 11 am/12:30 pm – 11 pm. Admission: 1-hour session QAR75, 2-hour session QAR140 and QAR250 open session; laser tag QAR50 for 12 mins. 4416 5761, linktr.ee/jumptastic.qa ✔
Mall of Qatar C1
Caboodle Pamper & Play Indoor edutainment playground, café and kiddie salon. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Stay & Play (up to 12 years) supervised by an adult 12+ years) QAR65 first hour, QAR35 additional hours. Guardian Rate QAR25 (first hour), supervised by an adult 12+ years; Drop & Shop (1 – 12 years of age) QAR95, supervised by Caboodle. 4488 7232, caboodle.qa ✔
Kids Corner A unique indoor play environment for children ages 1 to 7. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 8 am – 8 pm, Friday 3 pm – 8 pm. Admission: QAR60 per hour. 7775 9824, kidscornerqatar.qa.com ✔
KidzMondo Doha More than 70 scaled-down businesses including a central plaza, fire station, clock tower, police station and hospital theatre. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am –10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: QAR90 for children (1 – 3) and adults (above 14), QAR135 for children aged 4 – 14, QAR85 special needs, and free for children below 1. 4028 5888, kidzmondodoha.com ✔
Rush Action Park Trampolines, a zipline, motorised ninja course, a net course and a football cage arena. Gaming, interactive activities and a scoreboard system suitable for children aged 4 – 14. Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 2 pm – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm, Saturday 10 am –10 pm. Admission: QAR100 per hour. 4028 5990, mallofqatar.com.qa ✔
XtremeLand A multi-entertainment centre with 7D Theater, Drop and Twist Tower, Giant Slide and Clip N Climb, and more for children of all ages. Teenagers will enjoy motion fun at Trampoline Park while TagaJ and soft play will provide rotating inflatable fun and activities for toddlers and kids. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am –11 pm, Friday noon – midnight. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4486 5473, mallofqatar.com.qa ✔
Mirqab Mall D3
Funderdome An indoor family entertainment centre. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Toddler Play Area QAR50 per child (up to 100 cm), Active Play Area QAR80 per child. 4443 9740, funderdomedoha.com ✔
Hangout A gaming hub with a range of games from consoles and cars and flight simulators to an Escape Room and VR and arcade games. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4476 1127, hangoutqatar.com ✔
Jump Trampolines, soft play and plenty of physical activity. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm.
Admission: Regular QAR60 (select activities for two hours); Ultimate QAR90 (all activities for two hours). 3007 6888, 4447 9313, jumpqatar.com ✔
Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) D4
Ground Control Msheireb Galleria A 2,300 sq m interactive entertainment centre that combines classic games with the latest interactive technologies. The centre includes an advanced 10-lane bowling alley, innovative arcade games, high-speed racing simulators, modern table games, advanced billiards, air hockey, table football, jet pong and digital darting. ✔
NERF Action Xperience
Msheireb Galleria An arena for confrontational games, targeting the youth demographic in a fun environment, equipped with digital scoreboards. ✔
PLAY-DOH Fun Factory
Msheireb Galleria A comprehensive innovative experience designed to stimulate imagination, beginning with a colourful wall of PLAY-DOH constructions and unique interactive surfaces that allow visitors to transform simple materials into magnificent artistic works. ✔
Note: All play zones are expected to open in 2026 (TBC). Visit marhaba.qa for the latest updates. msheireb.com, 4008 4777
Place Vendôme A3
Caboodle Pamper & Play Indoor edutainment playground, café and kiddie salon. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Stay & Play (up to 12 years) supervised by an adult 12+ years) QAR65 first hour, QAR35 additional hours. Guardian Rate QAR25 (first hour), supervised by an adult 12+ years; Drop & Shop (1 – 12 years of age) QAR95, supervised by Caboodle. 4482 3233, caboodle.qa ✔
Jumpino Trampoline Park A giant family playground with wall-to-wall trampolines, so you can jump, climb, play and party. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 10 am – 11 pm, Thursday to Saturday 10 am – midnight. Admission: QAR100 for one hour, QAR180 for two hours; adults assisting kids QAR35. 4006 0269, jumpinotrampoline.com ✔
Kids Corner A unique indoor play environment for children ages 1 to 7. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 8 am – 8 pm, Friday 3 pm – 8 pm. Admission: QAR60 per hour. 7775 9824, kidscornerqatar.qa.com ✔
Magic Village Engaging children to learn arts and crafts. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 10 am – midnight. Admission: Prices vary per item. See their social media pages for more details. 5121 2166 ✔
Trocadéro Theme Park A theme park with rides, carting and bowling. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 10 am – 11 pm, Thursday and Saturday 10 am – midnight, Friday 2 pm –midnight. Admission: Play card with a minimum charge of QAR50. See their Instagram page for more details. 3000 2537 ✔
Royal Plaza D3
Ray's Reef A play area for children between the ages of six months and 14 years, offering arts and crafts, mini movie theatre, water play zone and more. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 11:30 am – 10 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 11 pm. Admission: QAR40 for entry. Tokens for video and redemption games, and spin art can be purchased as an extra. 4413 1122, royalplazadoha.com ✔
Tawar Mall C3
BOUNCEinc Qatar An indoor trampoline park with more than 100 interconnected trampolines. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 2 pm –10 pm, Thursday to Saturday 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: General (jumpers over 110 cm in height) QAR100 first hour and QAR90 per extra hour. miniBOUNCE Zone (kids under 110 cm
in height who can walk unassisted) QAR90 first hour and QAR55 per extra hour. Premium Access (access to all areas) QAR120 first hour and QAR110 per extra hour. 4408 6500, bounce.qa ✔
Noor Land A children's play area with a ball pit, bumper cars, fairground rides and more for children of all ages but specifically toddlers Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. See their facebook page for more details. 7733 5544 ✔
The Gate Mall C4
CurioCITY Center of Play Hands-on learning playgrounds, workshops, toy shop and cafe, parties. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10:30 pm.
Admission: Children (1 – 16 years) QAR140 per hour. 7723 3233, centerofplay.com ✔
Museum of Illusions Doha A captivating display of holograms, optical illusions, and installations that challenge our perceptions and reveal the deceptive nature of reality. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm.
Admission: Adult (16+ years) QAR80; child (3 – 15 years) QAR60; family (2 adults and 2 kids under 15 years) QAR220; Group (5 adults) QAR340; special needs QAR40. Free entry for children under three years old. 4020 6273, museumofillusions.qa ✔
Rebound An indoor trampoline park. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: QAR100 per child per hour. See their Instagram page. 5037 2142 ✔
The Mall D4
Fun Day An indoor children's theme park. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday noon – 8:30 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Admission: QAR30 per child. 4465 7969, themalldoha.com ✔
The Pearl Island B4
Beach Centrale A family-friendly destination with three climate-controlled pools – a main pool for adults with an artificial sandy beach, a second swimming pool and a water park for children. There are also changing rooms, lockers, and food and beverage kiosks. Opening hours: Daily 6 am –6 pm. Admission: Residents QAR50, visitors QAR100, children under the age of 2 enter for free. 800 6222, thepearlqatar.com ✔
CurioCITY Center of Play 18 La Croisette, Porto Arabia All family fun with hands-on learning playgrounds, workshops, toy shop and café, parties. Opening hours: Daily 1:30 pm – 9 pm. Admission: Children (1 – 16 years) QAR140 per hour. 7723 3233, centerofplay.com ✔
Ecolandia Lulu Mall, Giardino Features a giant ball pit and thrilling slides, an artificial sand pit with fun sand toys and structures, and Interactive Soft Play Zones. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR30 per hour (1 year and under), QAR65 per hour or QAR120 for 3 hours (2 – 10 years). 5570 0969, 4006 0402 ✔
Megapolis Entertainment Center Medina
Centrale An indoor entertainment destination, offering an array of games and activities such as escape rooms, virtual reality simulators, bowling, darts, billiards, karaoke and more. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am –3 am, Thursday 10 am onwards, Friday 1 pm – 3 am, closed on Sunday. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4437 8444/84, megapolisqatar.com ✔
miniBOUNCE Doha by BOUNCEinc Qatar Porto Arabia, Tower 22, Marina Way 22 Soft play zones to mini trampolines, tailored for little explorers under 140 cm. Opening hours: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR90 per child per hour. bounce.qa/minibounce ✔
Villaggio Mall D2
Gondolania Theme Park The indoor theme park includes a 4D cinema, bowling, laser wars, go-karting, and more. Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday noon – 9 pm, Thursday and Saturday 9 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with a minimum of QAR50 with top-up value per game/activity. 4403 9800, gondolania.com ✔
Gondolania Ice Arena Olympic sized ice rink accredited by the Ice Skating Institute Asia (ISIAsia). Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday 9 am – 10:30 pm, Thursday to Saturday 9 am – 11:15 pm. Sunday to Wednesday 9 am –10 am booked for lessons. Admission: First come, first served. QAR55 per person per session (30 minutes), QAR15 gloves, QAR10 socks, QAR20 skating seals. Children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by an adult guardian over the age of 18. QAR150 for coach and QAR175 for assessment. Private lessons cost QAR625 – QAR900 per student. QAR150 annual membership fee. 4450 7873, gondolaniaicearena.com ✔
Magic Village Engaging children to learn arts and crafts. Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – midnight. Admission: Prices vary per item. See their social media pages. 6609 9229 ✔ m
The Miracle of Life: Hawksbill Sea Turtles Season
By Ola Diab
Every year, Qatar experiences one of nature’s most rare and precious wonders – a true miracle of life.
For years, critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles have returned to Qatar’s shores to nest and hatch their eggs. They can be spotted on several beaches across the country, most notably Fuwairit Beach.
Once one of Qatar’s most popular seaside destinations, Fuwairit Beach permanently closed in 2020 to protect these turtles during the nesting and hatching season. It has since become a conservation area and sanctuary for both turtles and birds. Its soft sand and calm atmosphere provide ideal nesting conditions, allowing females to lay their eggs with minimal risk from predators. The nesting area is fenced off and closed to the public, with Fuwairit alone accounting for nearly 30% of all sea turtle nests in Qatar.
Qatar is home to three species of sea turtles, the most significant being the hawksbill, which plays a vital role in maintaining the region’s marine
Common name: Hawksbill sea turtles
Scientific name: Eretmochelys imbricata
Type: Reptiles
Diet: Carnivore
Average life span in the wild: 30 – 50 years
Size: 24 – 45 inches
Weight: 100 – 150 pounds
Current population trend: Decreasing – critically endangered
ecosystem. At least 100 nest in the country each year.
The season begins in early summer, with nesting typically occurring from April to May, followed by hatching between June and July. religious, reflective, gratitude, and goal setting.
Mating occurs every two years, after which females come ashore in late March or early April to find suitable nesting sites.
These turtles prefer tropical waters and often remain close to coastlines. Highly migratory, they play a crucial role in sustaining healthy coral reefs and preserving marine biodiversity. They have been classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature since 1982.
For more information about the hawksbill sea turtles season in Qatar, go to the Visit Qatar website visitqatar.com
Authorities identify and protect critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles across Qatar's beaches and place satellite transmitters on them to support the Turtle Conservation Project. Image source: Qatar Museums (QM)
The turtle-friendly beaches
Throughout the years, the majority of the nesting has taken place in Fuwairit Beach. It is believed to be the most preferred location for the turtles to nest because of the nature of the beach. In addition to being quiet, Fuwairit’s soft sand make it the perfect place for nesting as turtles can easily dig into the sand to lay their eggs. However, nesting and hatching has been recorded in beaches neighbouring Fuwairit in the north of Qatar including Halul, Lehwaylah, Al Jassasiya, Al Maroona, Al Ghariya and Al Mafjar. A timetable has been made to ensure the presence of researchers and other team members around the clock while nesting turtles at the beaches of Halul, Lehwaylah, Al Jassasiya, Al Maroona, Al Ghariya and Al Mafjar.
The Turtle Conservation Project Qatar places significant emphasis on wildlife conservation. Each spring, beginning in April, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) implements extensive measures to support the breeding of endangered hawksbill turtles through its Turtle Conservation Project. The initiative focuses on research, monitoring turtle movements, and safeguarding nests as eggs incubate in the warm sand. Supported by funding
from QatarEnergy (QE), the ministry undertakes a range of protective measures throughout the nesting and hatching seasons.
On 1 April 2026, the MOECC officially announced the start of the annual turtle nesting season, which will run until 1 August 2026. The ministry also called on stakeholders and the public to support conservation efforts during this critical period for the survival of endangered turtle species along Qatar’s coastline.
Qatar’s marine turtle conservation programme is one of the country’s pioneering biodiversity initiatives and a key effort in preserving marine life. Launched in 2003 through the Environmental Science Center (ESC) at Qatar University (QU), the project was established to protect hawksbill turtles and has since become a cornerstone of the nation’s environmental strategy. It reflects Qatar’s long-term commitment to safeguarding marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.
The MOECC’s Wildlife Protection Department oversees the project through a team of trained environmental inspectors and observers. The team collects detailed data during the nesting season, including the timing of nesting, location of nests, and their distance from the shoreline.
Reproduction
Every two to five years, female hawksbills return to the beaches where they were born to nest, which normally takes place in shallow waters close to the shore.
The nesting procedure begins when the turtles leave the sea to choose an area to lay their eggs. They dig a pit in the sand, lay their eggs, and then cover it. At this stage, the turtles retreat to the sea, leaving the eggs, which will hatch in about 60 days. The eggs hatch two months after they are laid and the young turtles instinctively crawl towards the sea.
Habitat and diet
In addition to Qatar, hawksbill sea turtles are found throughout the tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. They avoid deep waters, preferring coastlines where the sponges they like to feed on are abundant, and sandy nesting sites are within reach. These highly migratory reptiles help maintain a healthy coral reef ecosystem.
Hawksbills are omnivorous and will also eat molluscs, marine algae, crustaceans, sea urchins, fish, and jellyfish. Their hard shells protect them from many predators, but they still fall prey to large fish, sharks, crocodiles, octopuses, and humans.
Threats to survival
The hawksbill sea turtles are critically endangered for several reasons. According to National Geographic, the most dangerous time of their lives comes when hatchlings make the journey from their nests to the sea. Crabs and flocks of birds voraciously prey on the young turtles.
According to MME, the survival rate of the young hawksbill sea turtles in Qatar's waters are 15% to 20% due to bigger fish and birds preying on the young turtles. In addition, the hatching takes place at night as preying birds pose a serious threat to the survival of the young hawksbill sea turtles during the day.
Habitat loss is also a serious threat facing hawksbill turtles. Coastal development has reduced the space available for them to nest,
while rising temperatures associated with global climate change is killing the coral reefs they rely on for food.
Lehmesa
Every year around July, during the hawksbill sea turtle hatching season, Qatar Museums (QM), in partnership with the MOECC, invites the public to witness one of nature’s most magical moments through its Turtle Hatching Programme at Fuwairit Beach. It is an unforgettable, familyfriendly experience as baby turtles make their journey from nest to sea. Follow their social media channels or visit their website, qm.org.qa, to find out when registration opens.
Carrying on Qatar's mission to preserve and share the country precious marine life, QM recently held an immersive exhibition, exploring the vital role sea turtles play in Qatar’s marine ecosystems and reflecting on five decades of preserving and sharing the nation’s cultural and natural heritage. A sea turtle in Qatar is commonly referred to as Lehmesa
The exhibition, Lehmesa: Return by Moonlight, was on view at the National Museum of Qatar (NMOQ) from 27 October 2025 to 7 February 2026, focusing on the endangered hawksbill sea turtles, celebrating the nation’s natural heritage, tracing the turtle’s journey from land to sea, and exploring its evolutionary history, life cycle, habitat, and interactions with the environment.
While the hawksbill turtle’s nesting in Qatar is well documented, the migration routes of other sea turtle species visiting Qatari waters remain largely unknown. To address this, NMOQ has called for the first regional GCC Forum on Sea Turtles, in collaboration with the MOECC, to advance research and conservation.
The proposed GCC Forum will bring together experts from across the Gulf to discuss conservation priorities, including nesting site protection, marine debris, climate change, mortality causes, and community education. It will also examine sustainability topics such as marine protected areas, policy frameworks, and eco-tourism.
A sea turtle was found dead after becoming entangled in an abandoned net in waters off Qatar m
