Events & Activities in Qatar: Winter 2025/26

Events & Activities in Qatar

Events and Activities Events and Activities

Events in Qatar December 2025 – March 2026

Feature – Art Basel Qatar

Art Basel’s first event in the Middle East comes to Qatar in February, showcasing galleries from more than 30 countries.

Feature – It’s All About Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, when Muslims across the world will refrain from eating and drinking from Fajr (sunrise) until Maghrib (sunset).

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 December 2025 – March 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.

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Design and Ar twor k

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Events December – March

These are just some of the events taking place over the coming months – for more see our online calendar at marhaba.qa. For sports events see the separate calendar in this section. Events may be changed or cancelled.

December 2025

Ongoing Qatar Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture Discover the rich heritage of both nations via a programme of collaborative exchanges, exhibitions, film screenings, culinary festivals, workshops, and more. yearsofculture.qa

Ongoing FBQ Family Map Treasure Hunt The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum invites young visitors and their parents to follow Adam, FBQ’s camel mascot, on a discovery journey through the museum halls. Friday at 2 pm/4 pm. alsamriyaestate.com

Ongoing QNL Heritage Library permanent exhibition Books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, globes and travellers' instruments depict the interaction between Arabs and the West over the centuries, along with the history of science, literature, writing and travel. Use the QNL app for easy access to the collections or to make enquiries. qnl.qa

Ongoing Honour the Past, To Celebrate the Future: Qatar's Educational Vision A permanent exhibition showing the journey of female education in Qatar from 1938 to 2006. Highlighted is the impact made by the first girls' school, Banat El Doha (later renamed Umm Almo'mneen Primary School) and its founder Amna Mahmoud Al Jaidah, along with the Ministry of Education. It is now Liwan, a creativity hub since 2019. liwan.org.qa

Liwan Design Studios and Labs

2 – 13 Coffee Tea & Chocolate Festival More than 30 booths serving coffee, tea, chocolate, and desserts, 15 restaurants, and a kids' zone with carnival attractions, live stage performances, and entertainment for all ages. visitqatar.com Al Bidda Park

6 – 7

Doha Forum 2025 Under the banner ‘Equity in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress’, the forum will ask stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and take definite action to address world crises. dohaforum.org Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel

7 – 12 Qatar International Art Festival 2025

More than 75 pavilions will display 2,000 artworks by over 500 artists, highlighting both traditional and modern art. visitqatar.com

Katara Cultural Village

8 Seminar: The History of Qatar and the Arabian Gulf Through Archival Documents

A special seminar held in celebration of Qatar National Day on 18 December, exploring key milestones in Qatar’s history and highlighting the country’s cultural and historical influence within the Gulf and the wider Arab region. qnl.qa

8 – 18 Darb Al Saai The festival celebrating Qatar National Day returns with a wide variety of cultural, heritage, and educational activities for all age groups, alongside live entertainment and popular Qatari dishes at food stalls. visitqatar.com Umm Salal Mohammed

9 – 10 World Summit AI and Intelligent Health

MENA The world's most prestigious AI summits gather the AI ecosystem of enterprise, big tech, startups, investors and academia. The summits have a commitment to fostering diversity and equality, believing in the democratisation of AI to make it accessible to all. qatar.worldsummit.ai DECC

11 – 20 Qatar Balloon Festival Vibrant hot air balloons, sunrise launches and dazzling nightglows, laser displays, entertainment areas for children, and much more! qatarballoonfestival.com Multiple locations

7 Feb 2026

What's on at National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)

Until A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told Embark on a journey through NMoQ’s 50-year history. It begins from when the museum was known as the Qatar National Museum (QNM), the first national museum in the region when it opened in 1975, to its reinvention in 2019 as an experiential museum in French architect Jean Nouvel's iconic building. See rare exhibits, not been displayed since the closure of the old museum, alongside reimagined pieces by contemporary local artists.

7 Feb 2026

Until Lehmesa: Return by Moonlight Discover the world of sea turtles through a scientific and environmental lens, focusing on the Hawksbill turtle, the only one that nests on Qatar’s shores. The exhibition traces her journey from sand to sea, while highlighting the richness of Qatar’s coastal biodiversity and the vital connection between its shoreline and marine ecosystems, inspiring everyone to protect Qatar’s marine life and foster a more sustainable future.

29 Apr 2026

Until Countryside: A Place to Live, Not to Leave By architects Rem Koolhaas and Samir Bantal of AMO/OMA, presented by the NMoQ and Qatar Preparatory School. With more than 100 international collaborators, the exhibition examines rural regions worldwide with a focus on 'the arc', a contiguous band that runs through Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Visitors can explore how rural life can offer more humane and ecological answers to today’s global crises. There is a free bus service between the two locations.

Opening times Sunday/Monday/Wednesday/Saturday 9 am – 7 pm, Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, Tuesday closed. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time.

Admission Tickets must be obtained online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4

Until 13 Dec Beauty and the Beast Pantomime A hilarious pantomime twist on the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. Expect talking teapots, over-the-top villains, cheesy puns, plenty of chances to shout 'It’s behind you!' events.q-tickets.com THIS Theatre, Al Thumama

16 – 20 Doha Tattoo Festival 2025 Military bands and performance groups from Qatar and around the world will show the precision, pride, and pageantry of military heritage. visitqatar.com, dohatattoo.qa Katara Cultural Village

Until 18 Dec Katara 15th Traditional Dhow Festival Celebrating Qatar's maritime heritage with traditional dhow boats, cultural performances, and exhibits. katara.net South area of Katara Beach, Katara Cultural Village

18

Qatar National Day 2025

An annual public holiday marking Qatar's unification in 1878, also known as Founder's Day. There are activities for residents and visitors to enjoy at Darb Al Saai's permanent venue in Umm Slal Mohammed, as well as at other locations, such as Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl and Gewan Islands, Doha Corniche, malls and hotels. Follow news and details of events at marhaba.qa

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and Qatar Museums Gallery – Al Riwaq

Until 20 Dec Escape Room: The Banquet of Secrets Qatar’s first museum escape room experience, exploring Islamic scholarship through interconnected chambers themed around four key figures: the Islamic Traveller, Cook, Physician, and Calligrapher. Sunday/Tuesday/ Thursday 3 pm/4:30 pm/6 pm.

Until 30 Dec In the realms of Mecca: A journey through the rituals of Hajj and Umrah On display is a model of the Ka’ba, the second Qibla after Al Aqsa Mosque for Muslims, where visitors can learn more about the Ka’ba's door, kiswa. There is also a replica of the original Quran on display at the Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul. This unique printed copy has five sections on each page – three larger sections written in the Thuluth script, and two in the Naskh script. This model was created by Turkish calligrapher Ahmad Qora Al Husari.

Until 30 Dec Cures, Remedies, and Recipes: Treasures of MIA Library A unique display exploring historical perspectives on medicine, healing, and wellness. The exhibit will present a selection of rare books and manuscripts, including some never-before-displayed works from the MIA Gastronomy Collection.

14 Feb 2026

Until I M Pei and the Making of the Museum of Islamic Art: From Square to Octagon and Octagon to Circle Jointly organised by the MIA and the future Art Mill Museum, the exhibition traces the creative journey of Chinese-American architect Ieoh Ming Pei (1917–2019), as he sought to distil the 'essence of Islamic architecture' into the design of the Museum of Islamic Art that signalled Qatar’s arrival on the global cultural stage when it opened in 2008. There are more than 400 architectural models, archival documents and historic artworks, and newly commissioned film interviews.

I M Pei outside John F Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Massachusetts 1979 © Ted Dully/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

14 Feb 2026

Until I M Pei: Life Is Architecture The first full-scale retrospective of Pei's seven-decade career over six sections, showing how Pei worked in various social, cultural, and biographical contexts.

Every Fri/Sat MIA Bazaar Unique products by local entrepreneurs for sale, including handmade crafts, artwork, and fashion. Visitors can also savour delicious food and drinks while enjoying the park’s serene atmosphere. Friday 4 pm – 10 pm, Saturday 2 pm – 9 pm.

Opening times Saturday/Sunday/Monday/Tuesday 9 am – 7 pm, Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, Wednesday closed. MIA Park is open 24 hours.

Admission Tickets must be obtained online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa C4

Until 17 Jan Brouq events A unique desert experience offering dining, glamping and cultural activities set against the desert landscape. Discover events at Film City, Desert Escape and Our Habitas Ras Abrouq; children can also join workshops by Alhosh Gallery. visitqatar.com

January 2026

9 – 30 Jan Sealine Season A number of great events for the whole family, a chance to experience unique Qatari culture on the edge of the desert. Activities include concerts, dune bashing, horse riding, and monster truck and desert safaris. visitqatar.com Sealine

What's on at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art

Ongoing Mathaf galleries The museum's collections bring an original perspective to local and global conversations on art and society. Galleries 1–7 are for temporary exhibitions, Galleries 8–12 are the permanent collection. A selection of works from the permanent collection is available via Google Cultural Institute.

Until 9 Feb we refuse_d (pictured) Part of Mathaf’s 15th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition brings together more than 15 contemporary artists from the Arab world whose works explore themes of resistance, care, and resilience through new commissions and collaborative installations.

Until 8 Aug Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf offers Presenting a renewed perspective on the museum’s permanent collection, across four defining areas – from its origins as an artistic hub under Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, to its expansive exhibition history amd defining Arab identity through modern representations in the postindependence era.

Ongoing Art Lessons with Ismail Azzam Join artist and curator Ismail Azzam for free lessons in portraiture techniques using media like pencil, charcoal and paint. The lessons are for people with basic to intermediate sketching and drawing skills, participants must bring their own sketchbook. Lessons are in Arabic. Every Sunday for all, Tuesday for beginners, 4 pm – 6 pm.

Majd Abdel Hamid, Resonance, 2025, installation including small-scale embroideries, an album containing pictures of a succulent plant, and objects displayed in a chest of drawers, variable sizes, commissioned by Mathaf. Courtesy of the artist

Opening times Saturday/Sunday/Tuesday/Wednesday 9 am – 7 pm, Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, Monday closed.

Admission Tickets must be obtained online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. The Mathaf stop on the Education City public tram service is approximately three minutes away from the museum. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2

14 – 24 Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) Qatar’s most exciting food fair returns bigger and better than ever. Indulge in world-class cuisine from top chefs, live entertainment and exclusive workshops. This year’s QIFF features a MICHELIN Guide Village, QIFF Ring, QIFF Juniors, and more surprises. visitqatar. com Venues to be confirmed

19 – 22 Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) Organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, with participation from national and international defence companies, naval leaders, defence ministers, and chiefs of staff. dimdex.com QNCC

February

1 – 4

Web Summit Qatar International entrepreneurs, investors and the next generation of leaders will convene to connect the tech world and drive innovation. The Impact Community at Web Summit Qatar programme showcases startups that are making a positive impact on their communities and which are striving to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals. qatar.websummit.com DECC

7 Mar 2026

What's on at 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum

Until Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street Tracing the design and cultural evolution of sneakers, shoes that started as athletic wear and became a global phenomenon shaping sport, style, and identity. More than 200 pairs of sneakers are on display alongside photographs, films, and archival materials, including rare and limited-edition designs as well as an exclusive presentation of Virgil Abloh’s celebrated sneaker creations.

30 Apr 2026

Until Esports | A Game Changer A groundbreaking exhibition examining the changing face of competitive gaming, originally presented in Paris in 2024 during the Summer Olympic Games and a legacy of Qatar–France 2020 Year of Culture. Esports | A Game Changer delves into gaming’s emergence as a cultural, economic, and social force with over than 3.2 bn players worldwide and worth more than USD184.4 bn. The exhibition also includes the history of esports (electronic sports), its socio-cultural context, the logistical and financial aspects behind it, and its future.

Opening times Saturday/Sunday/Monday/Wednesday 9 am – 7 pm, Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, Tuesday closed.

Admission Tickets must be obtained online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4452 5200, 321qosm.org.qa B2

2 – 5

5 – 7

19 Mar 2026

21st International Conference & Exhibition on LNG (LNG2026) This prestigious event for the LNG industry will coincide with the start-up of the North Field LNG expansion project and the commissioning of one of the largest carbon capture and storage schemes in the world by Qatar, one of the world’s largest LNG producers. lng2026.com QNCC

Art Basel Qatar A partnership with Qatar Sports Investments and QC+, Art Basel Qatar will celebrate Qatar’s vibrant cultural landscape and the dynamic arts ecosystem of the MENA region. The inaugural edition will depart from the traditional booth model with a new fair format. The show's artistic director is Egyptian-born artist Wael Shawky, and will explore the theme ‘Becoming’: humanity’s ongoing transformation and the evolving systems shaping how we live, believe, and create meaning. artbasel.com/qatar/the-show M7 and Doha Design District (DDD)

18 Feb – The holy month of Ramadan Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan; eating, drinking and smoking are forbidden in public by all. Eateries close in daylight hours (some are open in the hotels), and bars and nightclubs will be closed. Many restaurants and hotels provide Iftar meals to break the fast at sunset, as well as the nighttime meal at Sohour. Garangaou is celebrated on the 14th night – children wear traditional dress and visit neighbours and friends to receive sweets and nuts to put in their Garangaou bag. Pre-packaged bags are widely available in supermarkets.

20 Mar Eid Al Fitr A public holiday, with activities such as brunches and promotions in the hotels and shopping malls.

Everything you need to know about Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr in Qatar can be found online at marhaba.qa, including cultural awareness, opening hours of malls, banks and hospitals, dining listings, and promotions.

Helen Kirkum x Casley Hayford.

Photo: Rachel Dray

The Plaza Doha

What's on at M7

Until 3 Jan FTA: Threads of Impact. Celebrating 7 Years of Fashion Trust Arabia Fashion Trust Arabia is a ground-breaking, internationally acclaimed creative initiative offering a unique platform to emerging Arab fashion talent. Threads of Impact features the work of more than 80 designers supported by FTA, including winners and finalists of the FTA Prize and special guest designers.

Until 3 Jan Woven Legacies: Uzbekistan’s Living Heritage Celebrating the beauty and sophistication of Uzbekistan’s textile traditions, and how its rich history continues to influence contemporary creativity.

Until 12 Jan Art in the Amazigh Poetry Heritage Celebrating the Amazigh hairstyling traditions of Morocco as a living and evolving art. The exhibition explores the ways in which hair carries tales of memory, beauty, resistance, and identity in its strands, particularly in Amazigh cultures where knowledge is passed down from mothers to daughters.

Until 17 Jan Houbara Haven: A Chaumet Tiara (pictured) M7 and Maison Chaumet present Houbara Haven: A Chaumet Tiara, designed by Qatari artist Aisha Alattiya, crafted by Maison Chaumet and commissioned by Alfardan Jewellery and Qatar Museums. The tiara is a poetic homage to Qatar’s rich hunting traditions – in the desert landscape, the Houbara bird finds refuge in the branches of the Awsaj tree from the falcon.

Opening times Saturday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 9 pm.

Admission Tickets must be obtained online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4422 4370, m7.org.qa C4

Upcoming events

Apr 2026 Autonomous e-Mobility Forum 2026 A dynamic platform discussing and collaborating on the trends and capabilities of driverless electric mobility. aemobforum.com QNCC

Apr – Design Doha Biennale The second edition will expand its presence across Doha, reinforcing its position as a global hub for design, creativity, and cultural exchange. Selected exhibitions will present a dynamic and inclusive dialogue on contemporary design in the region and beyond. designdoha.org.qa Multiple locations

May 2026 Qatar International Medical Devices and Healthcare Exhibition and Conference (QMED2026) Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health, the event will have 10 specialised zones, covering medical devices, diagnostics, pharma, lab technologies, wellness, health insurance, medical education, innovation, public health, and medical tourism. Engage with healthcare leaders in Qatar and the GCC, and explore cutting-edge technologies. qmedexpo.qa QNCC

May 2026 Qatar Economic Forum 2026 Powered by Bloomberg Heads of state and government, international CEOs and investors meet to explore the future of the global economy. Bloomberg newsroom-led conversations break news and move markets, alongside major deal announcements and high-level bilateral meetings. qatareconomicforum.com Venue to be confirmed

Nov 2026

International Telecommunication Union's Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) ITU’s highest decision-making body, the Plenipotentiary Conference is an important platform to address global priorities related to spectrum management, digital standards, equitable connectivity and regulatory foundations of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. itu.int Venue to be confirmed

Jun 2026

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

Katara Cultural Village B4 182, katara.net

Msheireb Downtown Doha D4 800 3642, msheireb.com

Qatar Museums qm.org.qa

Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) C2 4470 7000, qncc.qa

Qatar Tourism visitqatar.qa

To be included in our listings, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa

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By Sarah Palmer

The inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar will be held in 2026 at M7 and the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD). Preview Days are 3 – 4 February (by invitation only), and Public Days (access with a ticket or a VIP Card) 5 – 7 February.

The news was revealed in May 2025, and is a one-of-a-kind partnership between Art Basel; its parent company MCH Group; Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), a major investor in sports, culture, entertainment and lifestyle; and QC+, a strategic and creative collective specialising in cultural commerce.

Founded in 1970, Art Basel stages the world’s leading modern and contemporary art fairs. Each edition reflects the culture of its host city with curated programming in collaboration with local institutions. Art Basel Qatar will be its fifth global fair and its first in the Middle East. Visit Qatar is the fair’s Lead Partner, with additional support from Qatar Airways, BMW, Zegna, and UBS.

This new fair aligns with Qatar’s national strategy to diversify its economy through investment in culture and creative industries. It will expand on Qatar’s cultural vision and Art Basel’s global platform, offering year-round programming and engagement. The initiative aims to support the wider arts ecosystem through collector development, educational outreach, public programmes, and cross-sector partnerships. The inaugural edition will depart from the traditional booth model, instead introducing a new fair format. Egyptian artist Wael Shawky will be the Artistic Director; he will collaborate with Vincenzo de Bellis, Art Basel’s Chief Artistic Officer, to shape the show’s vision and oversee gallery selection.

The theme is 'Becoming', a reflection on transformation and the forces shaping cultural identity. Shawky said, 'Here, art is not only a witness to history but a force that shapes how we imagine and reimagine identity. My hope is that the first edition of Art Basel Qatar becomes a space for these stories to surface.'

There will be 87 galleries from 31 countries, including 16 firsttime participants. More than half of the 84 artists showcased hail from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Regional participants include Hafez Gallery (Jeddah, Riyadh), Gallery Misr (Cairo), Le Violon Bleu (Tunis), and Tabari Artspace (Dubai). Leading international galleries such as Gagosian, Pace Gallery, Hauser & Wirth, David Zwirner, and White Cube will also take part.

For more information, visit artbasel.com

Wael Shawky, Artistic Director, Art Basel Qatar, photographed in Basel in June 2025. Photography by Matthieu Croizier for Art Basel. Courtesy of Art Basel

It’s All About Ramadan

The Islamic calendar

The holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims across the world fast completely during the daylight hours of each day until the maghrib (sunset) prayer, refraining from food and drink, and as well as intimate contact and smoking.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad during the holy month of Ramadan on a night known as Laylat Al Qadr (The Night of Destiny or Power). In addition, fasting in Ramadan is the fourth of the five pillars of Islam, meaning it’s an obligation for Muslims.

The fasting period during Ramadan is called ‘sawm’ which literally means ‘to refrain’. As a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice, Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking. Muslims are to refrain from evil actions as well, including thoughts and words. Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. They are to make peace with those who have wronged them, strengthen ties with family and friends, do away with bad habits – essentially cleansing their lives, thoughts and feelings.

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is based on the cycles of the moon and so the date of Ramadan changes every year according to the Gregorian calendar. This year, it’s expected to begin around 1 March and end on 30 March 2025.

Every month begins with the sighting of a new moon in the Hijri calendar. This means that Ramadan can differ slightly from country to country as the new moon is sighted.

The week leading up to Ramadan can be quite exciting, as each country declares Ramadan. The new moon has to be sighted with the naked eye by Muslims in Qatar and in other Muslim countries, who then report to a special committee and if consensus is obtained, Ramadan is declared. Expectation is high in Qatar as Ramadan is the most anticipated month of the Islamic calendar.

The Quran

The first verses of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad during Ramadan on Laylat Al Qadr (The Night of Destiny or Power). It is thought to take place around the last 10 days of Ramadan, generally on the 23rd to the 27th day of the month. Muslims believe that on Laylat Al Qadr, God blesses everyone, forgives all sins, grants all prayers, and angels come down to earth. Muslims believe the Quran is the sacred message from Allah to humanity. The Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by God in stages – first from Allah to the angel Gabriel and then to Prophet Muhammad. This message was given to the Prophet in pieces over a period spanning approximately 23 years (610 CE to 632 CE). The Prophet was 40 years old when the Quran began to be revealed to him, and he was 63 when the revelation was completed. The language of the original message was in Classical Arabic (CA). Also known as Quranic Arabic, CA is the form of the Arabic language used in literary texts from Umayyad and Abbasid times (7th to 9th centuries).

The Quran is one of two sources which form the basis of Islam. The second source is the sunnah of the Prophet. Unlike the sunnah, the Quran is literally the Word of Allah, whereas the sunnah is the wording and actions of the Prophet. The Quran has not been expressed using any human’s words. Its wording is letter for letter fixed by no one but Allah. Today’s readers can find exact copies of it all over the world. The Quran of today is the same as the Quran revealed to Prophet Muhammad 1,400 years ago.

Ramadan practices

It’s sunnah for Muslims to break their fast with dates. Some Muslims break their fast with dates and laban (yogurt), to prepare and ease their stomachs into eating again. After this, they pray the maghrib prayer either before or after having iftar, which is the evening meal in which Muslims break their fast. When there was little access to clocks, a cannon was fired every day during Ramadan to mark the end of the fasting period. Still today, in Qatar, a cannon is fired every day to mark the end of the fast and begining of iftar time.

In the Gulf region, many families eat separately. Men congregate at the majlis, a reception room for male guests attached to the family home. The women of the house prepare a huge amount of food for the family, friends and neighbours. Breaking the fast is like a nightly celebration – daily. The second most important meal after iftar is the suhoor, which is a pre-dawn meal. Suhoor is the meal consumed early morning before fajr prayer – before sunrise – which is when Muslims begin the fasting or sawm during Ramadan. Suhoor is regarded by Islamic traditions as a benefit of the blessings in that it allows the person fasting to avoid weakness caused by the fast.

In addition to fasting, Muslims attempt to read the whole Quran, which comprises 114 chapters. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world follow the example of Prophet Muhammad, staying awake and standing in long prayers, striving to get closer to Allah. Besides the obligatory five prayers Muslims perform on a daily basis, during Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to perform non-obligatory, additional night prayers. The most important of these during Ramadan is Taraweeh, which is an evening prayer performed daily at the mosque. The second most important prayer in Ramadan is Qiyam Al Layl, which is an expression derived from the Quran for what is also known as Tahajjud prayer. Tahajjud is preferably offered after midnight, but before fajr. Like the Tarawih, Qiyam Al Layl is a night prayer performed through the last 10 days of Ramadan.

The exceptions (the non-fasting)

Every able Muslim is required to fast with the exception of the elderly, the sick (cancer, diabetes, transplant recipient) and infirm, pregnant and nursing mothers, and travellers. If they can, they are expected to make up the days missed before the next Ramadan. In addition, children are not obligated to fast during Ramadan until they reach puberty. However, children gradually begin practicing fasting around the age of seven.

Health issues

Although Ramadan will begin in March when the weather is still considered pleasant in Qatar, it may be warm and temperatures may rise towards 30°C during the day, especially closer to April, and so it’s best to refrain from walking as you may suffer from dehydration especially for those fasting. If you are taking medication, you should consult your doctor before fasting. When breaking your fast during the evening, try and eat slow-digesting, high-fibre foods that contain grains (oats, barley and lentils), and more fruit and dairy products. Drinking more liquids will help you avoid lethargy and low blood pressure. It’s advisable to reduce your caffeine and tobacco consumption slowly before and during Ramadan to avoid headaches; you don’t want to be suffering from withdrawal!

Garangao in Ramadan

On the 14th day of Ramadan in Qatar and the Gulf, children celebrate a traditional festival called Garangao. They go from door to door in groups, dressed in traditional costumes with large bags chanting ‘Give us something and Allah will give you. The house of Mecca, he will take you.’ It is a good idea to stock up on nuts, dried fruit and sweets to fill their bags and send them away happy. It’s a celebration that Qatari children look forward to all year round. Some people adorn their homes with lights for Garangao, Eid Al Fitr, and Ramadan.

Then comes Eid Al Fitr

The last few days of Ramadan are very busy for Muslims as they prepare for Eid Al Fitr, the Festival of Fast-Breaking, which will fall around 30 March 2025. Eid Al Fitr is a three-day celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It’s a celebration of the efforts made during the holy month. Houses are cleaned from top to bottom, the whole family gets a complete set of new clothes and even more sweets and chocolates are bought to welcome Eid visitors.

The atmosphere is remarkably relaxed and vibrant as Eid Al Fitr is a three-day national holiday. Many people take this opportunity to travel, taking advantage of all the airlines’ Eid deals. Qatar is rather quiet during this time, as the remaining population enjoys their time leisurely, visiting family members and eating out. It’s customary to wish people ‘Eid Mubarak’ which means ‘Blessed Eid’.

Ramadan do’s and don’ts

During Ramadan in Qatar, it’s illegal to smoke, drink, eat and even chew gum in public places for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. If you flout the rules you could end up with a fine from the police or even in prison. In addition, avoid singing or dancing in public and dress more conservatively and modestly, especially if you are a woman. All cafés, restaurants, juice stalls and fast food outlets close during the day and reopen after sunset. However, hotels remain open to serve their guests though a majority of restaurants and cafés in hotels will close during the day. During Ramadan, alcohol is completely banned. Restaurants will not sell alcohol, and Qatar Distribution Company (QDC), bars, lounges and nightclubs close for the month. Opening times of shops change; most shops close around noon (when it’s the hottest), but are open in the morning and late into the night. Some supermarkets open during the afternoon, but it is best to check with your local store. After sunset, malls and souqs become incredibly busy and parking spaces are scarce. During Ramadan, working hours are shorter. According to the Qatar Labour Law, you may only work 36 hours a month during Ramadan, which is six hours a day. Offices usually close around 2 pm, if not earlier.

We fast, too

As Qatar brings together people from various parts of the world with different faiths. The holy month of Ramadan starts conversation about other faiths’ interpretations of fasting. Although the practice of religious fasting is most commonly attributed to Islam, many other religions engage in a form of fasting. The Catholic Church historically observes the disciplines of fasting and abstinence at various times each year. For Catholics in the Christian season of Lent, fasting is 40 days, consisting of the reduction of one’s intake of food, while abstinence refers to refraining from meat (or another type of food). The purpose of fasting is spiritual focus, self-discipline, imitation of Christ, and performing penance. The Copts, who belong mostly to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, observe fasting periods according to the Coptic calendar, fasting between 180 to 210 days a year. Copts adher to a vegan diet, thus abstaining from meat, fish, eggs, dairy and other animal products. The Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Jewish people traditionally observe this holy day with an approximate 25-hour period of fasting and intensive prayer, often spending most of the day in synagogue services. In addition, in Hinduism, there are a diverse range of fasting practices which depend on factors such as personal beliefs, local customs and preferred deities. There are also fasting practices that help with weight loss and health issues such as Intermittent fasting (IF), which is currently one of the world’s most popular health and fitness trends. IF is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. m

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

Aspire Active Daily fitness classes and programmes for all ages and physical abilities. 4413 6430 (women), 4413 6481 (men), aspireactiveqa.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

Aspetar Specialised orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital, offering support to athletes, like injury prevention, diagnosis and treatment, and performance enhancement. 4413 2000, aspetar.com

Other Sports Facilities and Venues

• Al Shaqab • Asian Town Cricket Stadium

• Corinthia Golf Club • Doha Golf Club

• Doha Sports Park • Education City

• Education City Golf Club • Evo Sports

• FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ stadia

• Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex

• Lusail International Circuit (below right)

• 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

• 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

This is just a selection of sports events – to have yours listed, email marhaba@marhaba.com.qa. Events may be subject to a change of dates/cancellation. See our online calendar at marhaba.qa and follow us on our social media channels to keep up to date.

December 2025

Football

1 – 18 FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ A total of 16 teams from the Arab world will compete in Qatar for the second time, after the country successfully hosted the competition in 2021. Automatic qualifiers Qatar (as host nation), Algeria (defending champions), Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and the UAE will join seven winners from the qualifying matches (at time of press still to be confirmed). The final is on 18 December, Qatar National Day, at Lusail Stadium. Buy tickets at fifa.com, visitqatar.com Multiple venues

10 – 17 FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ Concurrently, Qatar will also host the final three matches of this year’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ presented by Aramco, the annual club competition featuring the champions of all six confederations.

10 FIFA Derby of the Americas – Mexican club Cruz Azul, winners of the Concacaf Champions Cup 2025 vs the CONMEBOL Libertadores 2025 champions, to be confirmed on 29 November 2025. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

13 FIFA Challenger Cup – winner of the Derby of the Americas against Egyptian side Pyramids FC, the CAF champions. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

17 FIFA Intercontinental Cup final – winner of the FIFA Challenger Cup vs Paris SaintGermain, 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League winners, for the ultimate annual club accolade. Venue to be confirmed fifa.com, visitqatar.com

May 2026

Until Qatar Stars League (QSL) The Doha Bank Stars League is the main tournament of the 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 to offer a more competitive element. 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 and is a straight knockout competition with two semi-final matches between the first and fourth-placed teams and second and third-placed teams. The winners of each semi-final then play the final. Buy tickets at qsl.qa

11 – 13 Polo AlMarsa As part of Qatar Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture, Visit Qatar will be hosting polo players from Argentina and Chile in a showcase of world-class exhibition matches with live entertainment, gourmet dining, children’s activities at the Mini Mallet Club, and the energy of the Polo Village. Polo AlMarsa is a private event for ticket holders only – there will be no public access to the venue. Book tickets at poloalmarsa.com and dress to impress! Old

10 – 13 T100 Triathlon World Championship Final Visit Qatar will be hosting the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals from 2025 to 2029 under an agreement with the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO), World Triathlon, and the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation. The swimming segment is in the waters of the Arabian Gulf, and the cycling and running segments will be across Doha and Lusail City. The multisport weekend will also allow amateur participants to compete in the new 100 km triathlon distance (2 km swim, 80 km bike, 18 km run) alongside professional triathletes. Get involved in the fun on 10 December in the Qatar T100 Kick Off Run, which features 5 km and 1 km evening runs, followed by a drone show. t100triathlon.com/qatar/participate Lusail Boulevard, Lusail City

Doha Port

25 – 31 FIDE World Rapid Championships 2025 The world's best chess players will be taking part in fast-paced matches for a thrilling end-of-year showdown. This edition features Open and Women’s events in Rapid and Blitz formats, with a total prize fund of €1 mn. worldrapidandblitz2025.fide.com Sports and Events Complex, Qatar University

27 Qatar Trail Series 2025 A competitive community race in Al Khor, open to all ages across different distances. Registration is via the QSFA app. visitqatar.com

Until 15 Feb Winter Mirage Fest at Meryal Waterpark The waterpark transforms into a glowing world of excitement and joy. The Winter Mirage Fest has lights, music, entertainment, and family activities for all ages. meryalwaterpark.com Rixos Qetaifan Island North Doha

Until Qatar Running Series A series of competitive community races, open to all, with a number of age groups and distances. visitqatar.com, z-adventures.org/qatar-running-series

Dec 2025 – Qatar Equestrian Tour The Qatar Equestrian Federation and Al Shaqab have launched the region’s biggest international equestrian event and the largest in history with 10 major competitions and a prize pool of €10 mn. alshaqab.com

31 Dec 2025 – 31 Jan 2026: HH The Father Amir Tour

11 – 14 Feb: HH The Amir’s Sword Festival

18 – 21 Feb: CHI Al Shaqab

4 – 7 Mar: Longines Global Champions Tour

11 Mar – 4 Apr: Doha International Equestrian Tour

Until Horse racing Meetings Wednesday and Thursday at Al Rayyan Park and Al Uqda Racing Complex in Al Khor. qrec.gov.qa

January 2026

7 – 11 WTT Champions Doha 2026 and WTT Star Contender Doha 2026 The events offer spectators the chance to witness elite-level matches as part of the global WTT platform, attracting international top-tier players. worldtabletennis.com Lusail Sports Arena

16 Doha Marathon by Ooredoo This edition of the marathon will be the biggest yet, with over 20,000 participants. It will start and finish at Hotel Park – the route along Doha Corniche will provide a scenic and safe experience for both runners and spectators. As well as the full marathon of 42 km, runners can opt for the half marathon of 21 km, 10 km or 5 km. There is also a kids race for 4 – 10 years old, and competitors with disabilities can race in all distance categories up to 21 km. Proceeds from the race will be distributed and donated to local charities across Qatar. Register online at dohamarathonooredoo.com

24 Samla International Not for the faint-hearted! Samla means 'strength and perseverance in the face of hardship' in Arabic. This is a non-stop 100 km point-to-point endurance challenge that will see contestants swim 2 km, cycle 44 km, run 49 km, and kayak 4 km within a strict 12-hour cut-off period. visitqatar.com

February

8 – 14 Qatar TotalEnergies Open A premier WTA1000 event, a showcase of the best stars in women’s tennis for over 20 years. qatartennis.org, wtatennis.com Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex

10 Qatar National Sports Day

A public holiday celebrated annually on the second Tuesday in February, encouraging everyone to participate in a sport or activity with colleagues, friends and family. The National Sports Day Award honours entities that promote sport culture among their employees. Follow announcements and schedules of public activities on marhaba.qa

Pictured: The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

11 – 14 HH The Amir's Sword International Equestrian Festival 2026 Held under the patronage of The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. For the first time, the festival will run across four days. The HH The Amir Trophy for Thoroughbreds and the HH The Amir Sword for Purebred Arabians will headline the final day’s card as the third and fourth races. Races are open to imported and local Purebred Arabians and Thoroughbreds, with a wide range of classifications. qrec.gov.qa Al Rayyan Racecourse

16 – 21 Qatar ExxonMobil Open Now an ATP 500 event, with the world's top men's tennis players like Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic entertaining fans both on and off court. qatartennis.org Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex

March

26 – 28 Qatar 1812 KM – FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Named in honour of Qatar’s National Day, competitors will be tested as they race from day into night, over a maximum of 10 hours at the Lusail International Circuit. The circuit features a flat, high-speed layout with minimal elevation changes and maximum grip, an ideal proving ground for the sport’s most advanced prototypes and production-based GT cars. Manufacturers include Porsche, Ferrari, Toyota, Cadillac, Aston Martin, Peugeot, Alpine, and BMW in the premier Hypercar category, while the LMGT3 class features marques such as Corvette, Lexus, Ferrari, BMW, and Mercedes-AMG. lcsc.qa

Upcoming Events

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

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 m

Sports Activities

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 ✓

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓

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 a list of hotels and their fitness facilities.

✓ An activity for children or one that children can participate in.

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 ✓

Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha

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. See the online schedule for the full list of classes – includes HIIT, Tabata, TRX, and circuit training. 4445 0000, marriott.com

Altitude Elite Lusail City A4 Personalised training for peak performance. 5085 5825, altitude.qa

Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery D4 Personal training and TechnoShape body slimming sessions at M|Fit gym, for hotel guests only. 4009 9999, alwadihoteldoha.com

Anytime Fitness Multiple locations Daily fitness and yoga. 4414 4999 (Al Muftah Plaza), 4469 7215 (Al Wakra, ladies), 4411 1999 (Al Wakra, men), 4411 4999 (Mall of Qatar), anytimefitness.qa

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

InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa B4 Circuit training, Tabata, bootcamp, boxing, CrossFit and Burn. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com

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 Street (CrossFit box), Ride Tribe (indoor cycling), Circle (weights), Encore Pilates, and Raise the Barre. 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 aquacise. 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 ✓

Strongbox Qatar Doha Sports Club B4 CrossFit, conditioning and personal training. 5050 2954, strongboxqatar.com

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 offers circuits, stretching, abs, HIIT and personal training. 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 Bespoke Optimal Physio-Fit offers activities and gym access to help alleviate pain, improve posture and boost overall fitness. 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 Multiple locations Male, female and children's teams, playing 9-a-side games with 12 players. Games are seven minutes long, with 10 minute finals, as per the Middle East GAA County Board Rules. There are also hurling teams. See their Facebook/Instagram pages. ✓

Movement Zone at Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Golf

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 9-hole putting course, Starting New At Golf progamme, 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 next to The Pearl Island A3 Fully floodlit, nine-hole par 3 golf course, set among 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 from the Qatar Golf Academy. The New Golfer Membership offers everything needed 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 keen to play social hockey. Monday 7 pm, Friday 8 am, youngster programme for ages 5+ Friday/Saturday 8 am. dohahockeyclub.com ✓

Wanderers Hockey Qatar Field hockey in Qatar since the 1970s. bosco_menezes@hotmail.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 Beach & Spa B4 Tennis competitions, sports days, activities and seasonal events. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.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 ✓

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Weekdays 8 am – 1 pm, for ages 5 –12. 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 ✓

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail A4 Kunuz kids club daily 10 am – 7 pm, Kunuz Teens Friday/Saturday noon – 9 pm. 4456 5656, hilton.com ✓

Martial Arts and Boxing

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Cardio boxing workouts. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com

Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Boxing for adults and children. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq ✓

Evolve Multiple locations Boxing and Muay Thai workouts. 4407 6772, evolvemindbodysoul.com ✓

InterContinental Doha The City C4 Kickboxing, boxing, taekwondo, karate for children. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity ✓

Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Tai Chi, 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. Book court hire 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 ✓

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

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 Zone D2 Qatar's first company dedicated to rock climbing sports. Open Thursday to Tuesday 2 pm – 10 pm. 5553 7177 ✓

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 and aqua fitness classes. 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. Swimming courses available. 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, one relaxation pool. 4489 9000, alrayyanhilton.qa ✓

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. Sunday – Thursday, 1:1 lessons for persons with disabilities, aged 4+. 4454 1398, qf.org.qa/community/ability-friendly-program ✓

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, 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, whirlpool. 4041 3333, hilton.com ✓

Le Royal Méridien Doha A4 Outdoor pool, children's pool, 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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Aquacise classes Sunday/Tuesday/Thursday, swimming lessons. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Lessons for children. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓

Steigenberger Hotel Doha D4 Rooftop temperature-controlled pool, children's pool. 4020 1666, steigenberger.com ✓

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, outdoor freeform pool. Call first for availability of instructors 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 ✓

Volleyball

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓

Water Sports and Beach Activities

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.s. 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, live entertainment and DJs. Open Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm, Friday 10 am – 9 pm, closed Wednesday. 7080 7326, azure-beach.com/doha

Fairmont Doha

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 ✓

Doha Beach Club

Health and Wellness

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 us at 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.

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 Eco-farm and Camp Al Sheehaniya Yoga and nidra meditation under the stars; workshops on traditional and Arabic Islamic medicine (aromatherapy, kohl and fumigation) 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 Retreats from 3 to 14 nights offer weight loss, nutrition and relaxation programmes, as well as fitness, yoga and Pilates. 4477 6500, zulal.com

Pilates and Yoga

Abesq Doha Hotel & Residences D3 Yoga studio, in-room yoga mats. 4492 3333, ihg.com/abesqdoha

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Yoga & Mindfulness, Meditation & 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, call first for up to date schedule. 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, call first. 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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Yoga sessions. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/hotel‑doha

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. See the online monthly schedule. 3320 2331, vishnuswasthiyoga.com

W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Yoga/Pilates –call first for availability. 4453 5555, marriott.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

Azure Beach, Ammos Greek and RAISE Fitness and Wellness Your Ultimate Destination at Qetaifan Island North

Experience the lively beachside vibes at Azure Beach Doha perfect for poolside lounging, great cocktails, and music that keeps the energy high.

Join the Sundown Party every Saturday from 6 PM to 12 AM QAR 200 for men and QAR 100 for women, non-redeemable, featuring DJs and a sunset atmosphere that hits just right.

For more details: +97470807326 @azurebeachdoha

Experience the true taste of the Mediterranean at Ammos Greek Doha, where fresh seafood and warm Greek hospitality come together. This season, enjoy the vibrant Thalassa Brunch an authentic celebration with traditional music every Friday from 1 PM to 5 PM.

For more info: +97470807327 @ammosgreekdoha

For those who love to stay active, RAISE Fitness & Wellness o ers a dynamic space to train, with top-notch equipment, expert trainers, and outdoor sessions at Azure Beach, designed to keep you moving while embracing the island lifestyle.

For more details: +974 4144 4605 @raisedoha

"One destination, endless experiences—whether for relaxation, entertainment, or tness, Qetaifan Island North is the place to be."

WHERE DOHA GOES TO THE BEACH

LOCATION PRE-BOOK

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

Public charities

• Qatar Cancer Society D4 4484 7777/87, qcs.qa

• Qatar Charity Multiple locations 4429 0000, qcharity.org

• Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) Multiple locations 4402 7777, 16002 (hotline), app.qrcs.org.qa/Volunteering

• Qatar Society for the Rehabilitation of Special Needs (QSRN) D4 4404 1271, qsrn.org

Private charities

• Afif Charity D4 4444 7717, afif.qa

• Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation (Alf) Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel C4 4498 1435, arb.alfaisalfoundation.org

• Eid Charity (Sheikh Eid bin Mohammad Al Thani Charitable Association) C3 4040 5555, eidcharity.net

• Jassim & Hamad Bin Jassim Charitable Foundation C3 4435 2928, hbjfoundation.qa

• Thani Humanitarian (Thani Bin Abdullah Humanitarian Foundation/Sheikh Thani Bin Abdullah for Humanitarian Services Foundation RAF) D3 4444 3330, thanihumanitarian.org

• Nasser bin Khaled (NBK) Charity D3 6663 9397, 4497 8999, nbkcharity.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

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

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 re-home 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 ✔

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, volunteers@qm.org.qa, 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 – 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 Offers 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

Cineco, Villaggio Mall D2 Offers 13 cinemas including one IMAX 3D. 4451 7001

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

The Mall Cineplex D4 Offers three cinemas. 4467 8666

Novo Cinemas Call Centre 4031 5800, novocinemas.com/qatar

• Novo Cinemas, 01 Mall E3

• Novo Cinemas, Centro Qatar A3

• 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

VOX Cinemas qat.voxcinemas.com

• Doha Festival City B2 4435 4444

• Doha Oasis D4 4410 4100

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 ✔

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 ✔

Cineco City Centre VIP Gold

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 Education Courses, Tutoring and Lectures and Arabic and Islamic 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 from 10 am to 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 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 ✔

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.

The Doha Players

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 British Business Forum (QBBF) Supporting trade between the UK and Qatar, QBBF is a socially active organisation representing a broad membership. qbbf.com

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 any woman regardless of nationality, profession, age or educational background. 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 in Qatar. Join their private Facebook group and/or WhatsApp group.

Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA)

A non-profit and non-governmental organisation that brings together Qatari business leaders. Membership is 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 and hunters in international and regional contests, providing support and organising events. The society includes the best facilities and equipment, and encourages research and studies in the field. 4408 1490, algannas.net

Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions throughout the year 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.

The Cambridge Society of Qatar Cambridge University alumni in Qatar who meet regularly to socialise, listen to eminent speakers and to discuss ways of promoting links between Qatar and Cambridge University. alumni.cam.ac.uk

Qatari Society of Al Gannas

Tuesday Ladies Group (TLG) Founded in 1976, an English-speaking network of international women living in Qatar offer a a wide 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

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 Chess Association

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 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 in Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) C2 4457 8280, library.qatar.georgetown.edu

• HBKU Library in Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) C2 4454 6644, hbku.edu.qa/en/hbku-library

• Health Sciences Library at Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar (WCM-Q) C2 4492 8100, qatar-weill.cornell.edu/health-sciences-library

• Library at Carnegie Mellon University Qatar (CMU-Q) C2 4454 8683, library.cmu.edu/qatar

• NU-Q Library in Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) C2 4454 5090, qatar.northwestern.edu

• TAMUQ Library in Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) C2 4423 0040, library.tamu.edu/qatar

• The Library in Qatar University (QU) C3 4403 6338/4097, qu.edu.qa/library

• VCUQatar Library in 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 Frenchspeaking 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, QAR150 for children aged 5 and above. Not suitable for children below 5. Family passes with 15% to 25% discounts. 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. 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. Prebooking 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 4 pm – midnight, Friday and Saturday 2 pm – 10 pm. 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 ✔

Banana Island Adventure Park

Doha Quest

Meryal Waterpark

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 hands-on 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 ✔

Meryal Waterpark Rixos Qetaifan Island North, Lusail City A4 A new, 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 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 ✔

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 1,000 sq m custom-designed inflatable park is suitable for adults and kids over the age of three. Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 11 pm, Thursday 10 am –11 pm, Friday 12:30 pm – midnight. Admission: Single Entry QAR35 for 25 minutes and QAR65 for 50 minutes; Family Pass (two adults and two children under 12 years of age) QAR120 for 25 minutes and QAR225 for 50 minutes; Nanny Pass QAR25 for 25 minutes and QAR40 for 50 minutes. 5113 8418, inflata-park.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 ✔

Ball Pit and Trampoline Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 1 pm – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Ball pit QAR15 (10 min), QAR20 (15 mins), QAR35 (30 mins), QAR50 (1 hour); Trampoline QAR20 (15 mins), QAR30 (30 mins), QAR50 (1 hour). 4000 3100, dohamall.com ✔

Extreme Arcade zone. Opening hours: Daily 1 pm –10 pm. Admission: QAR35 per session. 4000 3100, dohamall.com ✔

Inflata Park at City Center-Doha

Vroom Indoor karting play zone. Opening hours: Daily 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: QAR35 (10 mins), and QAR60 (20 mins). 4000 3100, dohamall.com ✔

Ezdan Mall, Al Gharrafa C3

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 ✔

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: Sunday to Wednesday and Saturday 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 ✔

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: 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 ✔

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) QARR65 first hour, QAR35 additional hours. Gradian Rate QAR25 (first hour), supervised by an adult 12+ years; Drop & Shop (1 – 12 years of age) QAR95, supervised by staff. 4488 7232, caboodle.qa ✔

Kids Corner A unique indoor play environment for children ages 1 to 7. Opening times: Saturday –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 aged 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. The centre also provides a dedicated area for parties, or corporate teambuilding events.

NERF Action Xperience An arena for confrontational games, targeting the youth demographic in a fun environment, equipped with digital scoreboards, adding a competitive character to their adventures.

PLAY-DOH Fun Factory 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 of Msheireb Galleria’s play zones are expected to open in late 2025 (TBC). Visit marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

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) QARR65 first hour, QAR35 additional hours. Gradian 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 or 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, and 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 All family fun: 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 below three years old. 4020 6273, museumofillusions.qa ✔

Rebound An indoor trampoline park. Opening hours: Saturday – Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: QAR100 per child per hour. 5037 2142, see their Instagram page ✔

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 below), 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: Monday to Wednesday 10 am – 2 am, Thursday 10 am onwards, Friday (closed for Friday prayers 11 am – 1 pm) and Saturday open 24 hours, 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 topup 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

British Community Foundation

We are a non-profit community initiative dedicated to supporting and celebrating the British community in Qatar.

Whether you are new to Qatar or have called it home for years, we are here for you. From play group to padel leagues, social events for new arrivals to our winter bazaar, we offer something for everyone.

Head to our website or follow us on social media to find out more.

The Healing Power of Journalling

Journalling is increasingly embraced in Qatar and around the world as a powerful tool for healing and personal growth.

By Ola Diab

In recent years, mental health has become an increasingly important topic and practice. Some workplaces now offer mental health days as part of their leave policies as well as therapy.

Therapy, which originates from the Greek word for healing, refers to treatment aimed at helping a person feel better, recover, or improve their overall wellbeing – whether mental, emotional, or physical. There are various forms of therapeutic treatments and practices. Journalling is one of them – a powerful tool that involves recording thoughts, feelings, and experiences to support mental and emotional wellness. Known as journal therapy, it's a form of self-expression and self-reflection that can be used to process emotions, gain clarity, and promote personal growth. Journalling can take many forms, from traditional diary entries to specialised journals focused on gratitude, goals, or even dreams.

There are various types or style of journalling –more than 20 – such as art and creative, visual, health and wellbeing, travel, fitness, nature, food, religious, reflective, gratitude, and goal setting.

Due to the growing popularity of journalling, therapy courses are now available to train professional journal coaches or instructors. These coaches guide clients through their journalling journey, helping clients journal effectively to increase self-reflection and personal growth, and take inspired action towards their goals, values and dreams. They offer structured support with prompts, exercises, and techniques to help individuals process emotions, manage stress, and gain clarity.

Why and when to start journalling

• To self-reflect

• Reduce and/or manage stress

• Goal setting and tracking

• Process and better understand your emotions

• Gain insight for a life decision

• Find more clarity in some area of life

• Develop confidence and learn to trust your inner wisdom

• Get a sense of direction

• Deeply know, grow and care for yourself through personal writing

The rise of journalling in Qatar

Like in many parts of the world, journalling is gaining popularity in Qatar, supported by local journal coaches and homegrown journalling books.

Soul

Love

Carolyn Sidgwick, a 57-year-old British resident of Qatar, recently launched a journalling book, Soul Love, in November 2025 after her inspiring journey with journalling, which helped her heal with her own challenges, mostly grief.

‘In 2021, I found my soulmate and we then got married in 2023, then last year [2024], he had a massive heart attack and passed away, which has been most difficult, but put me onto another different path and that’s when my journalling began. I heavily got into it because it is such a therapeutic way of getting your emotions and getting everything down,’ she said. ‘My inspiration is my hubby. I had all these different things that I was doing that you will see through the journal. It really helped me and I’m hoping that it’s going to touch and help others.’

Carolyn Sidgwick

On her journalling journey to heal from the loss of her husband, Matt, Sidgwick discovered and utilised several journalling books, which covered various concepts. However, this was not the beginning of Sidgwick’s healing journey. Before losing Matt in 2025, Sidgwick lost another beloved person, her mother, in 2018. ‘After that event, my life changed a lot. I became very spiritual but that was through just meeting people, being very open,’ she said. ‘I started to do lots of courses and then I realised, around COVID-19, I really yearned this oneness, a relationship like no other to find my soulmate…I remember in 2019, writing…what I wanted and how I wanted to bring it in,’ she said. She then met Matt in 2021.

Inside Soul Love

Soul Love is a nearly 300-page journalling book designed to help you pause, reflect, and focus on your personal goals and dreams. It includes dedicated sections such as ‘Vision Board’, ‘My Personal Goals’, ‘Reflection’, ‘Design Your Days’, ‘Abundance’, ‘Angel Messages’, ‘Monthly Reflection’, ‘Automatic Writing’, ‘Affirmations’, ‘Let Go Of’, ‘My Milestones and Achievements’, ‘Notes and Ideas’, and more.

Abundance: ‘Abundance is about all the good things that come in. So somebody buys a coffee, somebody smiles at you, somebody opens the door. Something that lights you up. You think, ‘Awww, that’s so lovely.’ Someone bought you something, somebody took you out for dinner. Whatever gesture it is, you write it down,’ said Sidgwick. ‘When you’re not in a great place, you can sometimes not appreciate abundance. A couple of days go by, and you suddenly forgot that someone has bought you a coffee, or took you out. So when you write it down and see it on one page, especially people who are struggling a little bit with mental health, when you start writings these things down, you actually start thinking [positively], actually [appreciating]. Because when you bring gratitude to your life, it really does dissolve negativity.’

Angel Messages: These messages refer to communication from guardian angels, deceased loved ones, and other spiritual beings, often providing love, guidance, support, or reassurance. ‘It’s very lovely and reassuring when you can write these things down and see how much love is around you,’ said Sidgwick. These angel messages can manifest in various ways, including intuitive feelings. For Sidgwick, butterflies remind her of her mother, and sunflowers, love hearts and the number 8 remind her of Matt.

Automated Writing: This is a way of channelling information from your higher self or your soul, or to spiritual or subconscious forces. ‘You can write it to your higher self, you can write it to your angels, you can write it to anyone. You know, if you just write for 5 to 10 minutes, just let the pen flow, just write all the word that come into your head, anything that comes into your head, just write it. Repeating words and sentences doesn’t matter. Just write, write, write. What I used to do, I end up going back to sleep and then in the morning, I read it and sometimes I’d be absolutely shocked that I’d even written it. So it is a very therapeutic way of expressing yourself,’ said Sidgwick. She writes automated messages to Matt. ‘Actually what I do now is I write letters for Matt so it's very therapeutic how you feel, how much you’re hurting, how much pain you feel, how much you miss them, how much you love them. Gratitude, I bring a lot of gratitude knowing that he is with me, what he is bringing in, all the love, support,’ she said.

My Dreams: This is for writing literal dreams, the ones you have when you sleep. ‘Dreams sometimes have a lot of meaning and sometimes it’s quite good just to write those things down and again, if you’re not in a great place, it can feel quite therapeutic,’ said Sidgwick.

Let Go Of: Sidgwick encourages journallers to let go of their fears. ‘Sometimes some of us have a fear of not being in control, a fear of many things in our lives, a fear of not being enough. There’s always something from our inner child or something that we have, a misconception or a limiting belief in our lives from our childhood. So this is where I hope this is going to help people and identify and become everything they want to be, and be able to celebrate it and help them move forward because we all have our ups and downs in life, but its always the downs that shine our light even brighter and be strength for other people,’ she said.

The book also has a 'Doodle Page’ in various sections for those who love to doodle, or just want a break from journalling by doodling. It can also serve as a page for notes or other purposes.

‘My hope is that this journal will support everyone on their journey, let them see that we don’t have to be perfect and our imperfections are our perfections. We are all unique going through our own journeys, healing and growing. It enables people to see how much they have grown, a way of expressing themselves and allowing themselves to dig deep and get in touch with their true self and the beauty of all we are. This journal allows them to see the beauty and love all around us everyday and that we are in control of our life and our thoughts and the journal makes you think about that with the gratitude, abundance, intentions and affirmations,’ said Sidgwick.

Although Soul Love was inspired by the grief of losing Matt, it is meant for anyone navigating life’s challenges or milestones – whether joyful or painful. ‘It’s great for people going through grief. There are loads of emotions,’ said Sidgwick. ‘It’s [also] great for people battling with their mental

health. It’s great for those people going through changes in their life. It’s literally good for everyone, even people who have got good in their life. It is still really good to even just wallowing all the goodness that you have because it just means that you’re going to attract even more,’ she added.

For more information on Sidgwick or Soul Love, or to purchase the book, see the Instagram accounts @carolynsidgwick and @soul.8.love

Other journalling resources in Qatar

As part of its Community Education programmes, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) has recently offered journalling courses such as ‘Introduction to Journaling’ and 'Journaling for Your Body, Mind and Soul’ with Qatar-based journalling coach Maria Marcela Daza Garcia Mayorca, known as Marce.

According to VCUarts Qatar, after moving to Qatar in 2017, Marce began journaling as a way to cope with the distance and new culture. Consistently journalling, and further testing her creativity, was the starting point to becoming a journal instructor initially with private students and later hosting workshops at Katara Art Center (KAC). When the COVID-19 pandemic limited onsite teaching, she moved to online learning. In 2021, Marce enrolled in a Journal Therapy Diploma and become a journal coach to help others find the right style of journalling to get more organised in their daily lives, track or shape habits or ailments, explore and address their emotions, and/or release their creativity only to become the best version of themselves. Marce offers journalling courses and workshops as well as speciality stationery and journals, which can be found via her social media platforms @beingmarceljournals

Many local journalling coaches and products can be found on social media, especially Instagram, such as Self-Coaching Hub (@selfcoachinghub).

Journalling books, journals and other products can be found in bookstores such as Virgin Megastore, Jarir Bookstore and FNAC. m

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