ISSUE
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DECEMBER 2023
Events and Activities
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Events and Activities
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marhaba.qa
Find out more about the high profile international horticultural show that is on until March 2024 at Al Bidda Park.
Events in Qatar December 2023 – March 2024 Feature – Asian Cup 2023
Football fans rejoice! The world’s most popular sport comes to Doha again, this time featuring the best of teams from Asia.
Sports in Qatar n overview of the local sports scene, including Qatar Olympic A Committee, federations and associations, and sports facilities.
Sports Events December 2023 – March 2024 Sports Activities A full listing of clubs, societies and activities, from Archery to Water Sports
Leisure Activities Clubs, societies and activities, from Arts and Crafts to Water Parks and Play Zones
Feature – It’s Camping Season Camping season is here! As cooler weather approaches, camping trips are a popular pastime and an ideal getaway from the city.
Events and Activities
Feature – All You Need to Know About Expo 2023 Doha
Health and Wellness • Holistic Wellness • Pilates • Yoga
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Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge
Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels.
Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe
© 2023/24 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.
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FEATURE
By Sarah Palmer
THE NEED FOR EXPO 2023 DOHA Expo 2023 Doha will make history as the first A1 International Horticultural Exhibition to be held in Qatar, and in the MENA region – indeed, the first to be held in a desert climate. The six-month long event is a collaboration between the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) and the International Association for Horticultural Producers (AIPH). BIE is the intergovernmental organisation in Paris that oversees and regulates international exhibitions that last over three weeks and are of non-commercial nature. Expo 2023 Doha will attract international visitors and feature participation from 80 countries and NGOs. The Expo is developed under Qatar National Vision 2030 and is being organised by the Ministry of Municipality. The theme is ‘Green Desert, Better Environment’, addressing the challenges faced by hot desert nations with regard to desertification and sustainability. Historically, greening the desert was a challenge. It is now possible to achieve, and can be the answer to global water, energy, and food scarcity problems. One-third of the world’s land surface is threatened by desertification and an additional 12 mn hectares of arid land is emerging each year. Desertification has become a pressing global issue, affecting the livelihoods of millions of people who rely on the benefits of ecosystems that drylands provide. As land becomes more arid, so people will migrate from rural to urban areas, causing both an environmental and economic problem. To achieve – and maintain – a green desert, there is a need for a platform where people can come together to exchange information, technology and innovations. Visitors will be inspired to explore and adopt change through four sub-themes: modern agriculture, technology and innovation, environmental awareness and sustainability. Expo 2023 Doha will also aim to attract cutting-edge global technologies and foster international collaborations to achieve goals. With the event lasting six months, it has the potential to create an exceptional and lasting impact. The organisers and the ministry have worked on a strong thematic programme that involves a number of international specialised agencies and organisations. The overarching aim is to leave behind a substantial legacy and surpass the achievements of previous horticultural expos. The International Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha officially opened at Al Bidda Park on 2 October 2023 with a grand celebration of global unity and sustainable development, in the presence of The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, members of the Qatari royal family and ministers, international heads of government and diplomats, and prominent members of the business community.
EXPO 2023 DOHA HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! The event is expected to attract 3 mn visitors and will take place in the beautiful Al Bidda Park, spanning 1.7 mn sq m and overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf. There will be a slew of activities and entertainment suitable for everyone: business visitors, horticulture enthusiasts, tourists, families, and children. On offer will be the extensive gardens in the park, thought-provoking talks, conferences, art and F&B choices. Facilities include congress and exhibition centres, a family amphitheatre, domes with indoor gardens, a cultural bazaar, a farmers market, an environment centre and biodiversity museum, and a grandstand arena. One particular highlight of the event will be the National Day celebrations, to take place on 18 December, to include a flag-raising ceremony with international official delegations in attendance. There is also the Bicycle and the Future of Mobility – Qatar Auto Museum exhibition, where visitors can explore the evolution of mobility, from bicycles to cutting-edge tech, via exhibits, workshops and talks. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Expo 2023 Doha is divided into three distinct areas, with up to 4,000 volunteers on hand to assist visitors. • The International Zone, located in the northern part of the park, serves as the gateway to the expo and the main hub for international gardens, exhibitions, and events, covering approximately 700,000 sq m. The zone allows visitors to experience numerous cultures and traditions from around the world. • The Family Zone occupies a central position within the park, providing a focal point for daily familyoriented activities, eco-workshops, gatherings, outdoor pursuits, and food festivals, across an estimated 500,000 sq m. • The Cultural Zone is in the southern zone, and is a venue for daily cultural, traditional, nature and sports activities, over an area of approximately 500,000 sq m. Expo 2023 Doha is scheduled to run until 28 March 2024 – at 179 days, this is the second-largest event Qatar will host after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The Expo promises to be yet another successful international event in Qatar! For more information, call 184, visit dohaexpo2023.gov.qa, download the app, and follow updates at marhaba.qa and on our social media channels. m ©
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QATAR INFORMATION GUIDE
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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 2023 Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture The programme celebrates the mutual appreciation between the two countries in terms of their religious heritage, their appreciation of history and their aspirations for the future. The year-long event features performances, exhibitions, sports and culinary events, photography projects, residency and volunteer programmes. yearsofculture.qa
Ongoing
QNL Heritage Library permanent exhibition Books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, globes and travellers' instruments depicting 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
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. Every Friday at 2 pm/4 pm. alsamriyaestate.com
4–6
17th Annual GPCA Forum The forum will be held for the first time in Qatar, under the theme ‘Mobilizing Chemistry for Impactful Transformation’. The programme will highlight the crucial role of chemistry in driving innovation and sustainability in various industries, and will bring together global and regional chemical leaders to discuss topics like sustainability, innovation, portfolio transformation, and achieving true net-zero emissions. gpcaforum.com QNCC
Until 7 Dec
MetaWhat? The COVID-19 pandemic impacted everything we know and how we communicated with each other: Zoom, Roblox, Facebook changing to Meta. The exhibition examines the metaverse and the new generation of media and entertainment. Physical objects, artworks and installations show what the metaverse can both bring to people's lives and what it can prohibit. Simultaneously is Gaia, an artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram showing a new perspective of our place on the planet. mediamajlis.northwestern.edu
Until 9 Dec
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical Stage adaptation of Rick Riordan's young adult fantasy novel, perfect for Percy fans of all ages! events.q-tickets.com THIS Theatre Mesaimeer
Until 9 Dec
Masterpieces of Furniture Design This curated exhibition showcases a collection of 50 furniture pieces spanning 200 years of design, each a true masterpiece blending innovation, artistry, and functionality. In partnership with the Vitra Design Museum in Germany. m7.org.qa M7 Gallery, Msheireb Downtown Doha
Until 16 Dec
AIR 6 & 7 – The Present: The Future Of The Past The latest group exhibition from Fire Station’s Artist in Residence (AIR) programme alumni, showing the creative process of 31 artists in the studio alongside their final artworks. firestation.org.qa
Until 20 Dec
ICONE. Voice of Design Made in Italy (right) The exhibition offers an immersive experience into the world of contemporary Italian design. Held in partnership with the Embassy of Italy in Doha. m7.org.qa M7, Msheireb Downtown Doha
Until 15 Jan 2024
DFI Workshop: Watching the Classics – Making Movies Modern Online programme for filmmakers and cinephiles to deepen their knowledge of film history. dohafilminstitute.com ©
Events December – March
Ongoing
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Events December – March
What's on at National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) 20 Dec – Jan 2024
Mal Lawal 4 The biennial exhibition Mal Lawal (‘From the Old Times’) invites local, regional, and international collectors to exhibit works from their personal collections and to share their stories with the public. This edition explores the history of gaming, with a focus on the 1990s, through objects such as consoles and games.
Until 15 Jan 2024
Pipilotti Rist: Your Brain to Me, My Brain to You A large-scale installation by renowned Swiss artist Pipilotti Rist, her first in the Middle East. Visitors embark on a journey of self-discovery through a multisensory experience that symbolises humanity’s collective unconscious and the power of the mind. A prominent part of the installation is the 'pixels', 12,000 LED lights strung on cables representing neurons firing and communicating with each other. The bulbs have been programmed with sound and video featuring abstract footage of Qatar’s landscapes.
Until 20 Jan 2024
A Sneak Peek at Qatar Auto Museum The exhibition features three amazing cars in the Mawater Gallery. The new Qatar Auto Museum will explore the past, present and future of the automobile and is in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 to support the cultural, educational and tourism sectors, investments in the automotive industry, and hosting for automotive events such as the Qatar Geneva International Motor Show and Formula 1.
Until 25 Jan 2024
The Shape of Time: Art and Ancestors of Oceania from The Metropolitan Museum of Art Nearly 130 works from The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Oceanic collection, being exhibited outside The Met for the first time in nearly a century. The exhibition is organised by the themes Voyaging, Ancestors and Time which explores the rich cultural heritage of Pacific Islanders over the last 400 years.
Until Growing Kopi, Drinking Qahwa: Stories 17 Feb 2024 of Coffee in Qatar and Indonesia (right) Through a fascinating display of artefacts, photographs, and interactive elements, visitors can delve into the histories, traditions, and flavours of coffee in these two nations. Part of Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4
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Qatar National Day 2023 An annual public holiday marking Qatar's unification in 1878, also known as Founder's Day.
Until Torba Farmers Market One of the first artisan 31 Mar 2024 and plastic-free farmers market in the country. For season 7, there are monthly themes, live cooking stations, a bigger plant section, fun and engaging workshops, more greenery, and is situated closer to amenities such as toilets and ATMs to make the market experience more enjoyable. Every Saturday 8 am – 9 pm, pets are welcome from 8 am – 5 pm. torba.qa Education City EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and Qatar Museums Gallery – Al Riwaq Until 30 Jan 2024
Welcome to Isfahan (right) Discover the treasures of Isfahan during the Safavid Empire through this rare book display at the MIA library. Explore architectural marvels, artistic masterpieces, cuisine, scientific advancements, and the European perspective on the city's distinctive style.
Until 9 Mar 2024
MIA Bazaar Enjoy the cooler weather at the MIA Park and take a stroll around the numerous stalls offering gifts, baked goods, clothing and much more. Every Friday 4 pm –10 pm and Saturday 3 pm –10 pm.
Until 20 Apr 2024
Fashioning an Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran A four-part exhibition showing the critical role that silk played during the Safavid period (1501 – 1736 CE): The establishment of the silk monopoly and state-funded manufacturing, exploring the production and technical components of textiles; the rise of Isfahan as an imperial capital; fashion and trends in Safavid society; and contemporary commissions created by local designers inspired by Safavid textiles. 'Fashioning an Empire' was conceived by and first presented at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, Washington DC in 2021–22.
Until 4 May 2024
Shattered, 2023 (right) Turkish artist Feleksan Onar’s beautiful collection of glass birds is on display in the museum's Damascus Room. Onar’s work deals with human displacement, exploring the profound impact that political unrest, war and natural disasters have on people. She uses birds as her preferred language and glass as her medium. The creative works mimic a traditional Mold blown glass, hand-carved, and gold Japanese technique typically used painted. Photo: Kerem Sanlıman for repairing ceramics, known as Kintsugi, where the technique joins fragments with gold, leaving the cracks visible. Onar uses these cracks to show the damage caused by the disaster but also the beauty that arises from transformation and change.
Events December – March
Until Dan Flavin/Donald Judd: Doha 24 Feb 2024 QM Gallery – Al Riwaq hosts an exhibition of the work of Dan Flavin 'Half the world is Isfahan' by Caroline Singer and (1933 – 1996) and Donald Judd Baldridge Cyrus. This book records a one-year (1928 – 1994), two of the most motoring journey throughout Iran. influential figures of Minimalism, who met in 1962 in New York. Organised by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in collaboration with QM.
Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. There is a free shuttle service between MIA and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Qatar National Library, and Fire Station. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa C4 ©
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Events December – March
What's on at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Ongoing
Mathaf Collection, Summary Part 2 Some of the museum's most iconic pieces, featuring 20th and 21st century contemporary art by artists from the Arab World, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe – all historically connected to Qatar and the Arab Peninsula.
Until 5 Aug 2023
Beirut and the Golden Sixties: A Manifesto of Fragility A multidisciplinary exhibition that examines a turbulent chapter in the development of modernism in Beirut, from the 1958 Lebanon Crisis to the Lebanese Civil War in 1975. The Beirut art scene of the 1960s saw an explosion of creativity and artistic experimentation, as seen in the 230 artworks and 300 archival documents from nearly 40 collections worldwide, alongside 8 works from Mathaf’s collection and a number of archival documents.
26 Oct – 5 Mar 2024
De/Constructed Meaning A collaboration with VCUarts Qatar, using an installation which acts as a writing device on sand to show the evolution of the Arabic script interpretations.
26 Oct – 5 Mar 2024
Cities Under Quarantine: The Mailbox Project (right) The project arose from the COVID-19 isolation, with 57 handmade, hand-stitched books created in Beirut shipped to 19 different countries. Reza Abedini designed each book for a specific artist and asked them to do whatever they liked on the book's blank pages, using any medium. The project was first shown in Florence, Italy in 2021.
26 Oct – 5 Mar 2024
Samia Halabi, The Dongola Book, 2020-21, Mehdi Moutashar: Introspection as Acrylic on paper, 30 x 137 cm. Courtesy of Resistance Moutashar’s first solo the artist and Dongola Limited editions. exhibition in Qatar, presenting new and existing works in a variety of media, bridging contemporary art with the heritage of the Arab-Muslim world. Inspired by Arabic calligraphy and ornamental patterns, his pieces challenge the categories his work might be placed in, including Abstraction, Minimalism and Op-Art.
26 Oct – 5 Mar 2024
Distilled Lessons: Abstraction in Arab Modernism (right) The exhibition depicts experiments in abstraction that show how Arab modernism differs from its counterparts around the world. The works show how regional artists have drawn ideas, visual elements, and techniques from the rich and diverse heritage of the Arab-Muslim world, particularly calligraphy and ornamentation.
Ongoing
Art Lesson with Ismail Azzam Artist and Madiha Umar, Untitled (The Letter Ein), curator Ismail Azzam is at Mathaf every 1986. Oil on canvas, 74.5 x 85 x 4 cm. Sunday and Monday 4 pm – 7 pm for Courtesy of Mathaf: Arab Museum of lessons in different portraiture techniques Modern Art. using media like pencil, charcoal and paint. The lessons are for people with basic to intermediate sketching and drawing skills and each participant must bring their own sketchbook.
Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. There is a free shuttle service between Mathaf and the Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar National Library, and Fire Station. The Mathaf stop on the Education City public tram service is approximately three minutes away from the museum. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Until 25 Apr 2024
Letters of Faith: The Arabic Script in Indonesia Part of Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture. Indonesia is a culturally diverse country with the largest Muslim population in the world. The exhibition showcases Qatar National Library’s collection in conjunction with Indonesian and local cultural institutions. Discover this heritage through illuminated Quranic manuscripts and how the Arabic script has been used across different media. qnl.qa
Events December – March
Until Expo 2023 Doha, Qatar Under the theme 'Green 28 Mar 2024 Desert, Better Environment', The International Horticultural Expo will bring together the world to unite in the fight against desertification – one third of the world’s land surface is threatened by this global problem, increasing by 12 mn hectares per annum. There are four sub-themes: Modern Agriculture, Technology and Innovation, Environmental Awareness, and Sustainability. This is the first horticultural exhibition to be held in a region with a desert climate and supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. Also at the Expo is The Bicycle and the Future of Mobility – Qatar Auto Museum exhibition, where visitors can explore the evolution of mobility, from bicycles to cutting-edge tech, via exhibits, workshops and talks. dohaexpo2023.gov.qa Al Bidda Park
January 2024 10 – 20
Qatar International Food Festival 2024 Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways again bring together a world-class feast for the taste buds with the biggest names in hospitality offering culinary experiences, cooking theatre, fireworks shows and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the latest food trends, local delicacies, street food and haute cuisine. Held as part of Doha Expo 2023, the festival also honours the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture (details to be released at time of going to press). visitqatar.com Al Bidda Park and Al Sa’ad Plaza, Lusail Boulevard
15 – 17
Qatar Bridal Show 2024 See the latest trends and designs in wedding and evening dresses and menswear. qatarbridalshow.com QNCC
20 – 25
Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition This 19th edition will be adding a new curated concourse area, the event’s first purpose-built studio featuring daily talks with some of the world’s most respected jewellery and watch designers and entrepreneurs. Also new will be the attendance of global auctioneers Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, with a selection of watches ahead of their Geneva Spring auctions along with a special collection for immediate purchase. Over 500 brands from around the world will be exhibiting their luxury goods, and visitors can stop off at iconic eateries Harrod’s Tea Rooms and Venchi for food and beverages. visitqatar.com DECC
26 – 29
Web Summit Qatar 2024 The event is one of the first of its kind in the region, featuring thousands of international entrepreneurs and investors and the next generation of leaders to connect the tech world and drive innovation. qatar.websummit.com DECC
February
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Events December – March
4–6
DIMDEX 2024 Hosted by Qatar Armed Forces, the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference (DIMDEX) is one of the leading events on the international defence and security industry calendar. International vessels and navies give exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to explore modern naval warships and meet the leaders and crew that deal with the complexities of protecting global maritime interests. dimdex.com Hamad Port
9 Mar – 8 Apr The holy month of Ramadan Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan; eating, drinking and smoking are forbidden in public by all. Most eateries close in daylight hours (some are open in the hotels), and bars and nightclubs will be closed. Work, school and shopping hours may change. Many restaurants and hotels provide a buffet‑style Iftar meal to break the fast at sunset, and celebrations continue with 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. 9 Apr
Eid Al Fitr A public holiday, with activities such as brunches and promotions in the hotels and shopping malls. Keep up to date with news of events at marhaba.qa 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.
Upcoming events Apr 2024
Autonomous e-Mobility Forum The Ministry of Transport hosts the first event to highlight the latest trends and innovations in sustainable transport solutions. It will be a platform for exchanging experiences and ideas, and having discussions on developments in the field of electric transport and self-driving mobility. aemobforum.com QNCC
May 2024
Build Your House Be part of projects in Qatar that will be worth USD19 bn in 2024 and includes the construction of 15,000 housing units. Meet Qatari citizens looking to build, equip or renovate their homes across a range of services and products. buildyourhouseqatar.com QNCC
May 2024
Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg The Middle East’s leading platform for global business and investment, covering major economic issues facing CEOs, world leaders and investors. This edition will see distinguished keynote speakers and newsmakers participating alongside global thought leaders, industry pioneers, and influential decision-makers. qatareconomicforum.com Venue to be confirmed
Oct 2024
Arab Fintech Forum – Elevating Financial Innovation in MENA The forum addresses the challenges and opportunities of the regional and global fintech ecosystems. arabfintechforum.com QNCC
Oct 2024
The Big 5 Construct Qatar and Index Design Qatar An opportunity for everyone in the construction and interior design industries to source products and services for all project requirements. thebig5-qatar.com, index-qatar.com DECC
Oct 2024
Cityscape Qatar Cityscape provides opportunities for networking and learning about the latest real estate market trends in the region, particularly Qatar and its ambitious growth plans. cityscapeqatar.com DECC
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Throughout the Year Lectures, exhibitions and workshops • 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum Storytime sessions, guided tours 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 F5 • 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
Events December – March
• 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 and festivals, workshops and educational programmes. dohafilminstitute.com • Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Regular performances 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
To be included in our listings, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba on our social media channels, visit marhaba.qa and sign up for our weekly newsletter. m
Checked & Updated October 2023
Events may be subject to a change of dates or cancellation. The separate Sports Events Calendar can be found in this section.
Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Qatar Foundation C2 4470 7000, qncc.qa Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) C4 4033 1111, decc.qa Katara Cultural Village Lusail Street B4 182, katara.net Qatar Tourism visitqatar.qa Qatar Museums qm.org.qa ©
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In FEATURE
By Sarah Palmer
January 2024, 24 national teams from across Asia will travel to Qatar to compete in the continent’s most prestigious football competition.
This will be the third time Qatar hosts the competition, having successfully organised previous editions in 1988 and 2011. The 18th edition of the tournament will see reigning champions Qatar defending the title they won in 2019. Qatar will be aiming to become only the fifth team to win back-to-back AFC Asian Cup™ titles and attempt to do what has only been achieved once in the previous seven editions – win the title on home soil. Australia are the last team to have done so in 2015.
Between 12 January and 10 February 2024, a total of 51 matches will be played at nine stadiums. The opening match between hosts and defending champions Qatar and Lebanon will be played at the Lusail Stadium, with a seating capacity of over 80,000 spectators. The venue hosted the final match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, and will also host the final match of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM. As seen during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, the farthest distance between stadiums is just 75 km, enabling fans to attend more than one match a day. Visiting fans can stay in one venue throughout the tournament, using the modern road infrastructure and metro network to effortlessly travel around the country. Approximately 6,000 volunteers will be recruited to offer support across 20 functional areas. Women will referee at the men's Asian Cup for the first time, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will also make its debut at the tournament. All tickets for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM will be digital, which can be shown from any mobile device – as they can be downloaded to Apple, Samsung or Google Pay digital wallets, internet connectivity at the stadium is not required. Each ticket contains a unique code that is scanned at the event. This paper free experience is Qatar’s continuing commitment to delivering sustainable tournaments. More than 150,000 tickets were sold in the first batch. Prices for group stage matches start at QAR25, and buying tickets couldn't be easier: • Tickets for matches can only be purchased at tickets.qfa.qa/afc2023 • Select the match and the number of tickets required (minimum 1 ticket, maximum 10 tickets per booking). • Select to print at home or to download as a mobile ticket. • Complete the form with your details to register. • Enter your valid card details at the payment gateway page. • Check your registered email address for a booking confirmation email in order to access your online ticket (print at home or use as mobile ticket). • Fans wishing to resell their tickets will be able to do so through the official ticket resale platform. Accessible tickets will be available for all matches. Disabled fans and those with limited mobility can choose their Accessibility Tickets (ATs) online. Purchase ATs and submit any accessibility requests at tickets@asiancup2023.qa For more information, visit the-afc.com and tickets.qfa.qa/afc2023, and follow our updates at marhaba.qa and on our social media channels. m EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Sports in Qatar
Sports in Qatar
Sports Federations and Associations • Air Sports • Athletics • Basketball • Billiards and Snooker • Bowling • Boxing and Wrestling • Chess • Cricket • Cycling and Triathlon • Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon • Fencing • Football • Golf • Gymnastics • Handball • Karate, Judo and Taekwondo • Motor and Motorcycle • Paralympic • Rugby and Hockey • Sailing and Rowing • Shooting and Archery • Sports for All • Women's Sports • Swimming • Table Tennis • Taekwondo, Judo and Karate • Tennis, Squash and Badminton • Volleyball • Weightlifting • Winter Sports
Sports Facilities Qatar Olympic Committee The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) was established in 1979 to oversee sports events and subsequently became members of the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Council of Asia, and the Arab Sports Games Federation. QOC merged some national federations in 2016, and in 2021 Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani was re-elected President of the QOC. QOC released its 2023–2030 Strategy in March 2023, with three main objectives: ensuring sports excellence; promoting Olympic culture; and achieving comprehensive sports development. QOC runs several campaigns to engage residents in keeping fit and healthy, including National Sport Day on the second Tuesday of February each year – one of only a few countries to hold such a public holiday – as well as events for schoolchildren and the promotion of women in sport. olympic.qa
Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) D3 Activities, sports medicine, research and education. Facilities include Aspire Dome, Aspire Park, Hamad Aquatic Centre, Khalifa Stadium, the Ladies Sports Hall and Ladies Club, tracks and playing fields. AZF runs the community sports initiatives Aspire Active, Step Into Health and Namat. 4413 8188, aspirezone.qa Aspire Academy Applied sports science support to student‑athletes; hosts international sports stars using the facilities. 4413 6570, aspire.qa Aspetar The first specialised orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital in the Gulf region, offering treatment for injuries. 4413 2000, aspetar.com Other sports faciities include: • Asian Town Cricket Stadium • Doha Golf Club • Doha Sports Park • Education City Golf Club • Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex • Lusail International Circuit • Lusail Olympic Shooting Range • Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club
Annual international events • Commercial Bank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP) • Commercial Bank Qatar Masters (golf) • FIA World Endurance Championship (2024 onwards) • Formula 1 Ooredoo Qatar Grand Prix (2023 onwards) • Longines Global Champions Tour (equestrian) • Qatar Classic Squash Tournament • Qatar ExxonMobil Open (ATP tennis) • Qatar Ladies Open (WTA tennis) • Qatar Table Tennis Open • World Athletics Wanda Diamond League (athletics)
Checked & Updated October 2023
Previous international sporting events include • Tour of Qatar (men's and 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 • World Padel Championship 2022 • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM
Coming up • 2023 AFC Asian Cup • 2024 FINA World Aquatics Championships • 2030 Asian Games
Get Involved! Also in this section: Sports Activities has a list of clubs and associations to join, while the Sports Calendar has an overview of events. Make sure you keep up to date with all the latest news – visit marhaba.qa, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social media. m EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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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 daily updates and our online calendar at marhaba.qa and follow us on our social media channels.
December 2023 Qatar Equestrian Tours – Longines Hathab The tour takes place over 14 competitions, organised and hosted by Qatar Equestrian Federation and Al Shaqab. Hathab, meaning canter in Arabic, is an initiative of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee, to inspire Qatar’s next generation of international equestrian champions. Disciplines include showjumping and dressage. hathab.qa
Until April 2024
QNB Qatar Stars League The new domestic football season starts, featuring 12 clubs. The top four clubs at the end of the season will participate in the Qatar Cup competition. qsl.qa
Until Apr 2024
Equestrian sport: Race meetings every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon at Al Rayyan Park and Al Uqda Racing Complex in Al Khor. qrec.gov.qa
1 – 12
Deaf International Cricket Council T20 World Cup Qatar 2023 Being held in Qatar for the first time and organised in conjunction with the Qatar Cricket Association to promote the sport for deaf athletes. At Asian Town Stadium.
5–9
Qatar GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup Finals 2023 Qatar Tourism (QT) is an Official Tourism Partner of the Global Kitesports Association (GKA) Kite World Tour. Qatar Airways is the Kite World Tour’s Title Partner and Official Airline, with QT acting as title sponsor for events held in Qatar. The Qatar Airways GKA Kite World Tour will close the 2023 Freestyle season with events at the Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton resort. gkakiteworldtour.com
6–9
Sports Events Calendar
Until Mar 2024
World Arabian Horse Championships The 2023 edition of the World Arabian Horse Championship is for the first time in over 40 years being held outside France. The competition is the most prestigious event for Arabian purebred horses, with detailed qualifications for the participating horses. At Katara Cultural Village. katara.net
January 2024 1 – 27
Marmi Festival 2024 The festival promotes the heritage sport of falconry and is one of the largest in the region. At Katara Cultural Village. katara.net
12 Jan – 10 Feb
2023 Asian Cup Defending champions Qatar will host the Asian Cup for the third time, after successfully hosting the FIFA World Cup QatarTM. There will be 24 men's teams from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) competing, at many of the FIFA World Cup QatarTM stadiums. The final will be held at Lusail Stadium. the-afc.com ©
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Sports Events Calendar
February 1–3
2024 Qatar International Rally Organised by Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, the gravel and sand event is part of the Middle East Rally Championship. qmmf.com
1 – 14
6th FAI World Paramotor Slalom Championships Organised by Qatar Air Sports Committee, the tournament will see athletes participating along the Lusail City coastline, as well as parades and air shows for the public to enjoy. At Lusail City. 6wpsc.com
2 – 18
World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 The World Aquatics Championships is held every two years, bringing together elite athletes to compete in water sport disciplines including swimming, diving, high diving, water polo, artistic swimming, and open water swimming. The competition is a qualification opportunity for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. At Aspire Dome, Hamad Aquatic Centre and Old Doha Port – look out for the official mascots, Nahim, a playful Qatari whale shark, and Mayfara a walking, talking, smiling coral. worldaquatics-doha2024.com, fina.org
TBC
Qatar TotalEnergies Open Women's hard court WTA 1000 tennis tournament at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. qatartennis.org
9 – 10, 16 – 17
2024 Qatar Off Road Championship Rounds 1 and 2 Organised by Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation. qmmf.com 13
Qatar National Sport 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. Read announcements and schedules of public activities on marhaba.qa Image © Amiri Diwan
16
Ooredoo Doha Marathon 2024 The country's most popular running event, with more than 15,000 runners over multiple distances along Doha corniche. All ages and abilities are welcome to participate. ooredoodohamarathon.com
18 – 24
19 – 20
Qatar ExxonMobil Open Men's hard court ATP 250 tennis tournament at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. qatartennis.org MotoGP 2024 Qatar will host the second and final days of testing at Lusail International Circuit. lcsc.qa
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24 – 25
WEC Official Prologue Qatar hosts the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Prologue at the redesigned 5.418-km Lusail International Circuit, welcoming the world's top endurance race drivers and premier brands showcasing the latest Hypercars. fiawec.com, lcsc.qa
Sports Events Calendar
March 2
Qatar 1812 km The official name of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) race to be staged at Lusail International Circuit, as Qatar opens the 12th season of the global endurance series for the first time, and one of four new tracks introduced this season. Covering 1812 km and lasting under 10 hours, the race is named after the date of Qatar National Day (18.12). fiawec.com, lcsc.qa
8 – 10
Grand Prix of Qatar 2024 Get set for another thrilling season of motorcycle racing as the MotoGPTM 2024 season starts under the floodlights in Qatar! MotoGP celebrates the 75th anniversary of motorcycle Grand Prix racing in 2024, marking the milestone with the transition to 100% sustainable fuel. At Lusail International Circuit. lcsc.qa
Upcoming Events AFC Asian Cup 2024™ Doha will host the AFC U-23 Championship, which is a qualification event for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Venue to be confirmed. the-afc.com
Apr
Qatar Open Amateur Golf Championship A World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) Event. At Doha Golf Club. dohagolfclub.com
Apr
FIG Apparatus World Cup 2024 Men's and Women's Artistic Gymnastics, where athletes perform short routines on different apparatuses, but with less emphasis on vaulting. This hugely popular spectator sport is organised by FIG (Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique), one of the oldest established international federations of an Olympic sport. Venue to be advised but most likely Aspire Dome. gymnastics.sport
May
Wanda Diamond League Athletes compete for points at the 14 meetings held during the season. The Doha meeting will be held at Qatar SC Stadium. For programme and ticket information visit doha.diamondleague.com
Nov/Dec
Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024 The ticket shop will open in early 2024 – follow updates at marhaba.qa for all the news about tickets, entertainment and activities. At Lusail International Circuit. lcsc.qa
2025
World Arabian Horse Championships The Championships will be held in Doha for the second time outside France. katara.net
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 ©
Checked & Updated October 2023
Apr/May
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DP
2024 Memberships now available for all categories The condition of both Championship and Academy Courses is fantastic, with recent feedback from the DP World Tour stating it was “one of the very best venues on tour”.
We look forward to welcoming you! For further information, contact us at the below details:
You @dohagolfclub
www.dohagolfclub.com (+974) 4496 0777 info@dohagolfclub.com EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Sports Activities Marhaba updates this section every issue, however details may change after going to press. If your organisation is listed on these pages, email any changes to us at marhaba@marhaba.com.qa. Locations can be found on the maps in this guide, and Marhaba pocket maps can be purchased at bookshops and stores around town.
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, Purple Island and Al Bayt Stadium; paratriking over Sealine Beach. For ages 15+. 3339 3323, 365adventures.me ✓ Asfary Multiple locations Helicopter and hot air balloon rides across Doha's landmarks. For ages 12+. 5543 4313, asfary.com ✓ Qatar Flying Club At Al Khor airfield, for newcomers or those who already hold a licence. Also sightseeing tours in fixed wing aircraft and gyroplanes. 4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net Skydive Qatar Lekhwiya Duhail Camp B3 Experience the thrill of skydiving at Qatar’s largest indoor skydiving wind tunnel. Packages are available for all ages and levels, from age 3 onwards. Open Sunday and Monday 5 am – 8 pm. 3099 6669, skydiveqatar.com ✓ Sky Masters Sports Club Mesaieed. Paratriking over Sealine Beach and the Inland Sea. Daily except Sunday, sunrise to 9 am/2 pm to sunset. 6000 5011, flowcode.com/page/skymasters.qa
Badminton Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓
Basketball Evolution Basketball Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓ SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations For children aged 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓
Bowling
Sports and Activities
Delta Hotels by Marriott City Center Doha
Also see: • Leisure Activities in this section for dance classes, fishing, and theme parks and play zones • Health and Wellness in this section for wellness, Pilates and yoga • Hospitality in Qatar for a complete list of hotels and their fitness facilities ✓ An activity for children or one that children can participate in
300 Bowling Center B Square 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 Sunday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday to Saturday 10 am – 11 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 ✓ Multaqa Bowling Center Education City C2 12‑lane bowling alley. Open Sunday/Tuesday/Thursday 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Monday/Wednesday/Friday/ Saturday 8 am – 9:30 pm. 4454 0267 ✓ Megapolis Entertainment Center The Pearl Island B4 Bowling alley, darts, billiards, escape rooms and racing simulator. Open 24/7. 4437 8444/84, megapolisqatar.com ✓ Qatar Bowling Center D4 32-lane bowling alley. Open Sunday to Wednesday 2 pm – midnight, Thursday 2 pm – 1 am, Friday 8 am – 6 pm (leagues), 6 pm – 1 am (open to all), Saturday noon – midnight. 4435 3054/3336 2722, qatarbowlingcenter.com✓ Yalla Bowling Vox Cinema, Doha Oasis D4 8 bowling alleys with 4 lanes, billiards tables and a VIP restaurant. Open daily 10 am – 11 pm. 4410 6111, dohaoasis.com ✓ ©
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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, see their Facebook page for details ✓
Sports and Activities
Cycling Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Explore the island by bike or Segway. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓ Qatar Chain Reaction Multiple locations Volunteer branch of the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation open to all road and mountain bike riders. Friday morning rides, track nights at Losail International Circuit and more. qatarchainreaction.com Qatar Cycling Federation Near College of the North Atlantic‑Qatar B3 Events and development of the sport. 4447 5522, qatarcycling.org ✓
Darts Doha Darts League Shamrock Tavern, Magnum Hotel B4 The league runs from September to March. Join the Facebook group for details
Fencing Clement Fencing Academy Lycee Voltaire Al Waab D3 Al Dafna B4 Training for ages 4 to adults, after school activities and French language sessions (French is the official language of fencing). Classes are available for those in wheelchairs using specially adapted chairs, under the Definitely Able initiative run by Sasol. 7751 2469, clementfencing.com ✓ Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 4+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Anytime Fitness Multiple locations Daily fitness and yoga classes. 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 Hundreds of classes for men, women, and children aged 6 months+. Registration form and schedule are available online. aspireactiveqa.com 3 Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Functional training, stretching and mobility, personal trainer on request. Open 24/7. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha Banyan Tree Doha D4 Fitness classes and exercise rooms. 4410 3333, banyantree.com 3 Bounce Fitness Multiple locations Bootcamp, martial arts, yoga and gymnastics for adults and children. 5061 1266, bouncefitness.com.qa 3 Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Fitness centre and studio, HIIT for adults and fitness classes for children, kids club and two swimming pools. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq ✓ CrossFit Oryx Doha College D3 Classes and open gym. 5080 5705, crossfitoryx.com 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 C4 The Emerald Gym is fully equipped with pool and steam rooms. 4470 3333, marriott.com ✓ Dynamik QA The Pearl Island B4 Mansoura D4 Fitness, yoga/pilates and martial arts, separate gyms. See their Instagram page for details Education City Golf Club C2 Gym for general fitness; coaching by PGA golf professional for golf swing, stretching and core stability. ecgolf.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 Outdoor bootcamp, personal training and jogging tracks. 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
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha
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Evo Active – Evolution 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 Private and group sessions in movement, yoga and spin studios; also has a climbing wall. 4030 7200, fairmont.com/doha ✓ Fit20 West Bay Al Bidda Street C4 One 20-minute training session per week. 5057 0350, fit20.qa
Fitness First City Center Doha C4 Fitness classes and separate male/female gyms. 4411 5999, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Classes by Evolve. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha Golden Tulip Doha D4 Personal training, daily classes. 4419 8888, doha.goldentulip.com Grand Hyatt Doha B4 CrossFit, aqua gym, Tae Bo and core. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com ✓ Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Hotel guests can use the gym with separate male and female training zones available, aged 16+ only. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Circuit training, Tabata, bootcamp, boxing, CrossFit and Burn. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com InterContinental Doha – The City B4 Bodypump, Latino Cardio and EMS (Electro Muscular Stimulation). 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity
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 24/7 gym and more than 70 classes a week. 4429 8888, rixos.com ✓ Sharq Village & Spa D4 Fitness, spinning, yoga, Tai chi. 4425 6185, ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Mixed, ladies only and children's classes. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓ 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 ✓
Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 TRX, FunXtion experience, Octagon multi-functional training. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 WestinWORKOUT offers circuits, stretching, abs, HIIT and personal training. 4492 1600, marriott.com
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
W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Fully equipped FIT gym open 24/7. 4453 5555, marriott.com
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 The Pearl Island B4 Six studios: The Street (CrossFit box), Ride Tribe (indoor cycling), Beat Box, Encore Pilates, Niya Yoga, and Raise the Barre. 4020 6430, oxfitnesslab.com
Sports and Activities
First Fit Training Multiple locations Martial arts, tennis, gymnastics, football and more for adults and children aged 3+. 3300 0779, fftsports.com ✓
Park Hyatt Doha D4 Separate female/male gyms. 4009 1234, parkhyattdoha.com
Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som Al Ruwais The bespoke Optimal Physio-Fit offers a number of activities and access to the gym 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 ✓ ©
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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 ✓ Evolution Soccer Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Sports and Activities
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 ✓ SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations For children aged 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓
Frisbee Team Qatar Ultimate Frisbee Crescent Park Lusail A3 Training Tuesday evenings, Friday mornings. 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. qatargaa.qa ✓
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 – sunset. 4040 5050, anantara.com/ en/banana-island-doha ✓ Corinthia Golf Club A3 Located at Gewan Island at Lusail City, the new club offers a fully floodlit, nine-hole par 3 golf course, set among natural lakes and manicured greens. 5109 9699, corinthiagolfclub.qa Doha Golf Club B3 (below) 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 is a golf development facility with 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. Join the Facebook group for details 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 near Al Sheehaniya. Lessons for adults and children, daily rides, pony club, trails and events; café; shop with equestrian items. 7797 3397, 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 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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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 ✓ Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations Multisports holiday camps for ages 4 – 11. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort The private Sports Academy has an indoor training facility and 9 outdoor pitches, for professional athletes and sports teams. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa
Netball Evolution Netball Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3
Padel, Squash and Tennis
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 ✓
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor tennis and padel courts. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com ✓
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Weekdays 8 am – 1 pm, for ages 5 –12. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Synthetic grass tennis court. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Martial Arts and Boxing Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Boxing lessons for adults and children. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq 3 Evolve Multiple locations Boxing and Muay Thai workouts. 4407 6772, evolvemindbodysoul.com 3 InterContinental Doha The City C4 Kickboxing, boxing, taekwondo, karate for kids. Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity 3 Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Thai Chi, Muay Thai, kickboxing, boxing. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Kickboxing, karate and taekwondo for adults and children. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3 The Korea Taekwondo Centre Al Muthana Complex, Salwa Rd D3 Daily from 3 pm (except Friday). For adults and children aged 5+. 5556 3305, see the Facebook group for details 3
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 3 Dana Club C4 Basketball, mini‑football, table tennis and volleyball facilities for members and their guests. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa 3
Sports and Activities
InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Tennis competitions, sports days and much more – an extensive range of activities and seasonal events. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com ✓
Doha College West Bay C3 Facilities include multipurpose sports halls, 3G pitches, external basketball court and swimming pools. 4407 6777, dohacollege.com 3
Dana Club C4 Two indoor tennis courts, individual coaching. 4496 0656, danaclub.com.qa ✓ Doha Oasis D4 3 padel courts. Open daily 4 pm – midnight, advance booking is required. 5533 8830 (WhatsApp), dohaoasis.com ✓ Education City Golf Club C2 Private, group and playing lessons. ecgolf.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 8888, fourseasons.com/doha ✓ InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Tennis and squash lessons, tennis socials Sunday and Friday 6 pm, outdoor padel court. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com ✓ Padel Garden Doha Katara Cultural Village B4 Seven outdoor courts in Katara Hills. 4032 5528, see their Instagram page ✓ Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex C4 Courts available for hire by the hour. 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 In Multiple locations Qatar’s first indoor padel club. Court hire can be booked online. thepadelin.com ✓ ©
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Padel Qatar Qatar Sports Club C4 Court hire can be booked online. 3381 2201, padelqatar.com ✓
HamacLand Floating Lounge, Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara
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 ✓
Sports and Activities
SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Tennis classes for adults and children aged 2+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa ✓ Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Indoor tennis and squash courts, outdoor padel court. Private and group lessons for adults and children, tennis socials. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓ The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Tennis and squash courts, lessons available. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast ✓ The St. Regis Doha B4 Tennis and padel court hire, lessons for adults and children aged 12+. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓ The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 Two squash courts for hire. 4492 1600, marriott.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 Running/jogging tracks, fitness trail and nature trail. 4445 0000, marriott.com 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 Scuba diving and diving courses, also RAID certification and snorkelling. 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 Fitness First City Center‑Doha C4 Separate classes for men and women. 4411 5106, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com 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 ✓
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Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor Grand Pool set in an oasis of indigenous trees, plus an indoor recreational pool. 4445 0000, marriott.com Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Classes for men, women and children. Registration form and schedule are available online. 4413 6219, aspireactiveqa.com ✓
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 100m long pool, water slides, kids water park, and a surf pool with lessons available. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓
Park Hyatt Doha D4 Semi-covered pool on the 6th floor. 4009 1234, parkhyattdoha.com Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Aquacise classes, private swimming lessons. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha ✓ Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Lessons for children. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.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 (below) Indoor Junior Olympic pool, outdoor freeform pool. Call first for availability of instructors for classes. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast ✓
Dana Club C4 SwimSafe academy for adults and children. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa ✓ Evolution Swimming Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com ✓
Sports and Activities
Ability Friendly Qatar Foundation Recreation Center C2 and Al Khor Recreation Center. Sunday – Thursday, 1:1 classes for all levels from beginner to advanced. Available for anybody with a disability or special needs, aged 4+. 4454 0772, abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa ✓
Mondrian Doha A4 On the 26th floor, the pool shares the space with the gym. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha ✓
Fairmont Doha A4 Indoor pool on the 5th floor, and wave pool. 4030 7200, fairmont.com/doha ✓ Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Grotto pools and family-friendly pools with water slides, for spa members. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha ✓ Freestyle Aquatics at Aspire Aspire Dome Swimming Pool D2 Swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving for people with special needs and disabilities. For more information and to register, contact programme founder Kathleen Bates at tryfreestyle@aspirelogistics.qa, facebook.com/freestyleaquatics2012 ✓ 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 ✓ 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 and whirlpool. 4141 6000, hilton.com ✓ Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Eight outdoor pools, including a large whirlpool bath and a pool for children. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz ✓
The St. Regis Doha B4 Olympic-sized pool and children's pool for use by guests and members only. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com ✓ The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, outdoor wave pool and outdoor children’s pool. Lessons for adults and children. 4492 1600, marriott.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 Angry Dragons Qatar Katara Beach B4 The Pearl Island B4 New and seasoned paddlers always welcome. See their Facebook page for details ©
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AquaSports Qatar Multiple locations Kayaking in Al Thakhira mangroves and other locations, stand up paddle boarding and kiteboarding. Events and private parties. aquasportsq.com ✓
Sports and Activities
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Beach sports, stand up paddle boarding, banana/ donut rides, kayaking, HamacLand Floating Lounge, and Pontoon Tea/Dinner. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha ✓ Discover Arabia Adventure tours at Al Thakhira nature reserve, educational programmes for schools, mangrove planting and environmental clean-ups. Also 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 3 Doha Dragons Qatar Katara Beach B4 Paddling sessions according to the weather. Equipment is provided. See their Facebook page for details ✓ Flokiteschool Multiple locations Kitesurfing lessons for adults and schoolchildren. 3315 5628, flokiteschool.com ✓
no swimming permitted 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 stand up paddle boarding. 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 ✓ Regatta Sailing Academy InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 A Royal Yachting Association training centre offering numerous activities, available for corporate events and parties. 5550 3484, regattasailingacademy.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 ✓
Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton A new one-of-a-kind resort on Qatar's northern coast, designed around the kitesurfing lifestyle. In addition to kitesurfing, the beach destination is a place to stay, dine and enjoy sports like volleyball, football, padel, yoga and more. Day pass is QAR300 per person which includes resort sports facilities and an F&B credit of QAR200. Kitesurfing lessons start from QAR700 per person. Open daily 10 am – 5 pm. fkb.qa
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Banana/donut rides, wakeboard, water skiing, kayaks, jet skis, stand up paddle boarding, water bikes, cruises and fishing. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com ✓
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park, one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East with 18 attractions and 56 rides and slides. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday/Friday 10 am – 6 pm. Pre-booking is required, rides and slides are subject to availability. Beach activities include kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, hydro bikes, football, tennis, basketball, volleyball and yoga. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa ✓
Waldorf Astoria Doha, Lusail A4 The hotel has the only private beach in Lusail City. There is fun for all the family in the water park, with water fountains, surfing stations and water slides. 4456 5656, hilton.com ✓ m Hilton Salwa Beach Resort
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InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Jetskis, tubes, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, stand up paddle boarding and a water trampoline in the lagoon. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.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 3
Katara Beach B4 Waterskiing, kneeboarding, parasailing, jetskis, boat/gondola rides, sailing and kayaking. Wearing a life jacket is compulsory. The beach is open daily 3:30 pm – 11 pm; EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Leisure Activities 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 in these pages, email any changes to us at marhaba@marhaba.com.qa. Many of the locations for the following listings can be found using the map pages 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.
Arts and Crafts Center B3 A vibrant centre in Al Duhail South, offering art classes and workshops for all ages. Caters to events, birthdays, schools and universities. 4486 5201, artsandcrafts.qa ✔ 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 The eco-farm and camp offers courses and workshops in botanical art, architectural sketching, colouring and more. 4441 1195, 5096 0007, heenatsalma.earth ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 Offers progressive 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. 6699 0122, see their Facebook page for more details. Katara Art Center (KAC) at Building 5 at 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 Qatar Art Center (QAC) C3 Art residency and art hub, founded in 1993 by HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. 4487 7488, qatar-art-center.business.site Qatar Fine Arts Association at Building 13 at Katara Cultural Village B4 Aims to raise the level of scientific and technical artists, and maintain their production. 4408 1469, see their Facebook page for more details. ✔
VCUarts Qatar Community Education 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 1388/1471
Leisure Activities
Arts and Crafts
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
Cinemas 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, Gulf Mall C3 A 13-screen multiplex. 4031 0600 ©
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Cineco, Villaggio Mall D2 Offers 13 cinemas including one IMAX 3D. 4451 7001
HOG Qatar Chapter
Flik Cinemas, Lagoona Mall B4 Platinum and Gold Class multiplex, offering four screens. 4443 2757 Flik Cinemas, Mirqab Mall D3 Offers eight screens. 4434 0737
Leisure Activities
Katara Cinema, Building 49 B4 Luxurious cinema with four VIP theatres. 5028 5994 Mall Cinema, The Mall D4 Offers three cinemas. 4467 8666 Novo Cinema Call Centre 4031 5803, novocinemas.com/qatar • Novo Cinema, 01 Mall E3 A 5-screen cinema. • Novo Cinema, Doha Oasis D4 A 19-screen cinema. • Novo Cinema, Mall of Qatar C1 A 19-screen cinema, IMAX and MX4D. • Novo Cinema, Msheireb Galleria D4 A 6-screen cinema, including VIP 7-star screens. • Novo Cinema, Souq Waqif D4 A four standard theatres and a VIP 7-star screen. • Novo Cinemas, Tawar Mall C3 A 9-screen cinema with Dolby Atmos sound. • Novo Cinema, The Pearl Island B4 A 10-screen cinema, including IMAX and VIP. Qatar Bahrain Cinema, City Center-Doha C4 A 14-screen multiplex. 6503 6086, 4493 3355 Roxy Cinemas, B. Square 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, Doha Festival City B2 A 19-screen cinema multiplex including one 4DX. 4435 4444 VOX Cinemas, Doha Oasis D4 A 19-screen cinema multiplex including one 4DX. 4410 4100
Clubs – Hobbies Children's Literature Center Affiliated to the Ministry of Culture, the centre was established in 2012 in Umm Slal as the first centre concerned with children’s literature in the Middle East. Holds reading and writing activIties for children. 6652 2362, 6607 7488, cl.trainingcenter@gmail. com. See their Facebook page. ✔ 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. 7701 3335, see their Instagram and Facebook pages.
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 for more details. 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 for more details. Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) C3 Raising environmental awareness and conservation. 4487 4725/4731, fec.qa (Arabic) ✔ Friends of Nature (FON) in Ezdan Mall C3 A non-profit organisation, which organises environmental awareness programmes and activities. 7002 0543 (Arabic) ✔ Heenat Salma Farm The eco-farm and camp 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 at 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, and by raising the efficiency and refining the skills and developing the capabilities of those interested in Arabic. 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@qbsf.qa, qbsf.qa Qatar Chess Association D4 Chess training and tournaments for children. 4494 4290/91/92, 4469 4349 (girls), 4465 9791 (boys), qatarchess.com ✔
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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 Natural History Group (QNHG)
Qatar Duners Connect with other bikers, and take on the dunes. Join their private Facebook group for details. Stand Up Comedy Qatar (SUCQ) Qatar’s own stand-up comedy club. It promotes local comedians and hosts occasional stand-up comedy shows. 3370 3012, see their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) at Lusail International Circuit A3 The federation organises motor and motorcycling rallies, and accepts volunteers interested in marshalling at the rallies. 4437 9885, qmmf.com
SustainableQatar An independent, volunteer-based organisation addressing environmental issues relevant to Qatar. sustainableqatar.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 Photography Center at Building 18 at 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. 5583 3807 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 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) ✔
The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar Officially recognised by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. Join events, activities and outings. qatarelvisfans.qa
Leisure Activities
Qatar Flying Club 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
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 at Katara Cultural Village D4 Photography programmes for teens. Basic skills required. 4408 1812, see Instagram @yhg.qa ✔
Clubs – Recreational Al Jasrah Cultural and Social Club in 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 many free training courses in various creative areas such as writing, theatre and music. 4427 3124, 3318 1359, moc.gov.qa Al Khor Community 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 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) ©
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See Sports Activities in this section for a comprehensive list of sports clubs.
Culinary
Leisure Activities
Dana Club
Al Khor Girls Center 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 0600/666, danaclub.com.qa ✔ Dukhan Recreation Club (DRC) One of the oldest clubs managed by QatarEnergy and open to its staff only with several fitness and entertainment facilities. 4014 1879 Dukhan Water Sports Club A sailing club for QatarEnergy employees only. 4014 1894 Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) D3 Formally inaugurated in 1992, the centre is a meeting of prominent Indian community members. 4468 6607, iccqatar.com Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) Clubs Al Banush Club. 4409 1777 (for employees only Qatar Foundation (QF) Recreational facilities at QF's Recreation Centre, Education City Club House, Awsaj Academy Recreation, Student Centre (Multaqa), Qatar Academy Al Khor (QAK), and Qatar Academy Msheireb (QAM) 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 ✔ The Diplomatic Club 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, watersports and more. 4411 0312, thediplomaticclub.com
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 The eco-farm and camp 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. 3330 6677, see their Instagram page. 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/Islamic Culture Courses in the Education section.
Dance B/Attitude Spa at Beverly Hills Tower B4 Offers zumba, salsa, latino fitness and more. 4412 2046, battitudespadoha.com ✔ Bailamos Salsa Multiple locations Teaches salsa, bachata, tango, hip hop and more at all levels. 7040 4143, bailamos-salsa-doha.business.site Brava Studio at 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 ✔ Cabana Club at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D4 Holds ballet, hip hop, salsa, bachata and more for adults and children – various levels. 4428 1428 ✔ Fitness First at 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 ✔
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International Centre for Music (ICM Qatar) Multiple locations One of the pioneers in Qatar to offer courses to learn the solos and variations in classical as well as contemporary ballet. 4467 1354, 4490 7878, icmqatar.com ✔ Salsa n Candela C3 Founded by Candela Entertainment, Salsa n Candela provides salsa, Cha-Cha, bachata, Brazilian Zouk, kizomba, tango and other latin dance classes, as well as organises events and provides entertainment services. candelaentertainment.com
Swasthi Academy D3 Provides training in classical and contemporary dance forms, classical and instrumental music genres, martial arts as well as wellness programmes. 5077 0025, swasthiacademy.com The Ritz-Carlton, Doha B4 Offers jazz, zumba and hip hop classes. 4484 8000, ritzcarlton.com ✔ Yamativo Mambo Qatar Multiple locations A latin dance group and school that offers salsa, bachata, styling, shines and rueda classes for all levels. 5554 0533, yamativosalsaqatar.com
Debating and Public Speaking 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 at Birla Public School D4 Fee: first year QAR225 and annual QAR100. 7727 9583 ✔ Doha Debates C2 Doha Debates is a Qatar Foundation (QF) initiative founded on focusing on reaching solutions through live debates, videos, blogs and podcasts. 4454 2844, dohadebates.com
Drama Doha Film Institute (DFI) B4 Offers programmes, workshops and labs in acting, screenwriting and other aspects of filmmaking. dohafilminstitute.com Doha Players Theatre C2 An amateur dramatic society that produces plays and musicals on weekdays between 8 am and 1 pm only. thedohaplayers.com ✔ Film and Theater Academy Multiple locations Acting classes, workshops and courses for adults and children. 7751 9168, see their Facebook page for more details. ✔ Mockingbird Academy C2 Delivers a high-quality performing arts programme and classes with several fundamental abilities, including selfesteem, confidence, creative thinking, acting skills, public speaking skills, as well as leadership and teamwork skills. 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, and to provide the local theatre community with new, experienced and technically educated cadres. 4405 5720
Groups and Associations
Doha Gavels Club D4 Toastmaster club for children. Part of Doha Toastmasters Club. 5572 0680 ✔
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 ✔
Doha Toastmasters Club D4 Meetings on first and third Saturday from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm on Zoom. 5516 9399, doha.toastmastersclubs.org
American Women's Association Active women's group for all nationalities, providing a variety of ongoing activities and events. awaqatar.com
QatarDebate Center C2 A member of QF and the national debating organisation for Qatar. qatardebate.org
Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar (AYCMQA) C4 Established in 2015 by a multidisciplinary and passionate group of young students and professionals in Qatar, AYCMQA is an independent, non-profit, think-and-do-tank for environmental awareness and advocacy, research, and policy
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
Leisure Activities
Skills Development Centre (SDC) D3 A centre for fine arts and performing arts, and is one of the leading institutes in Qatar offering Indian classical dance, modern dance, classical music, fine arts, karate, yoga and personality development. 4441 3955, sdcqatar.org
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analysis. Their initiatives include Earth Talk Series, Household Carbon Footprint, Environmental Ambassadors of Qatar, Young Reporters for Environment Qatar and Ecoliteracy. aycmqatar.org British Guides in Foreign Countries (BGIFC) For girls only, aged 5 – 14 years. To register your daughter, visit bgifc.org.uk, dess.org ✔
Leisure Activities
Canadians in Qatar Bringing Canadians of Qatar together through social events by holding monthly social events. Join their private group on Facebook. Doha Mums Group of over 1,000 mums from 90 countries, offering more than 80 events a month, including New Arrivals Coffees; playgroups and holiday parties; support groups; children with special needs; children's library. dohamums.com ✔ Dutch Speaking Association of Qatar (DSA) Welcomes those who speak Dutch. dsaqatar.org ExpatWoman Qatar Join the forum and get to know other expatriate women; organises activities, meetups and gatherings. expatwoman.com/qatar How Women Work (HWW) A community group empowering women to succeed through workshops, conferences, and professional events. hwwglobal.com Indian Women's Association, Qatar (IWA Qatar) Exchange expertise in various cultural social fields. iwaqatar.com Lebanese Community in Qatar (LCIQ) A community group for Lebanese in Qatar with more than 4,000 members to get to know each other, and organise events. Join their private group on Facebook. Qatar Expat Women 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 Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) Marriott Marquis City Center Doha C4 Founded in 2002, under Amiri Decree No 14 by HH The Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, QBA is an independent, non-profit and non-governmental organisation of business people working together to improve Qatar’s economic and civic vitality. Membership is open to Qatari nationals at the age of 30 and above. 4435 3120, qataribusinessmen.org
Qatar Professional Women's Network (QPWN)
Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) Marriott Marquis City Center Doha C4 An independent non-profit entity working under the umbrella of Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA). Hosts regular meetings, networking programmes, events and conferences. Membership is open to Qatari and non-Qatari female residents of Qatar. qbwa.qa, 5589 6144 Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions throughout the year including St Andrew's Night Ball, Burns Supper and summer ceilidhs. scotsinqatar.com Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (previously known as Fanar) D4 Hosts numerous events for people of all nationalities and beliefs. 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa Sudanese Professional Association and Sudanese Women's Association (SWA) in Qatar A formal association of Sudanese professionals that organises professional, business, social and cultural events throughout the year for the Sudanese community in Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details. Swedish Association of Qatar (SAQ) Regular gatherings and social events for children and adults. saq.nu ✔ 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 Tuesday Ladies Group (TLG) D4 Support group for expatriate women. Meets at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha for tea, coffee and cakes every other Tuesday. tuesdayladiesgroup.com Women's Circle C4 By Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel and life coach Anahi, hosts women's events, bringing women together to share, discuss and witness each other's journeys in a safe and enriching platform. See their group on LinkedIn.
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Groups Seeking Volunteers Al Shaqab C2 Friends of Al Shaqab Volunteer Program 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
Cat Assistance Team of Qatar (CAT) Volunteer-based cat rescue group that fundraises to support cat rescue in Qatar. All proceeds go to TNR (trap-neuter-return), cat care and rescue. See their Facebook page for more details. Doha Environmental Actions Project (Deap) 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 or Instagram pages for more details. ✔ Education Above All (EAA) Volunteers are involved in one-time events as well as ongoing commitments in Qatar and across Asia under EAA's Volunteer Program of Reach Out To Asia (ROTA). Volunteers can work on their own or with others; do hands-on work or volunteer at an administrative and support level. 4454 1603, educationaboveall.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 purely by public donations along with offers of support from volunteers, it is home to over 200 animals. 5539 6074, qaws.org ✔ Qatar Charity Ezdehar is 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 non-profit organisations. ezdehar.qcharity.org
Qatar Museums (QM) D4 Volunteers are invited to attend events, training and exhibitions, and lead guided tours and experience behind-the-scenes opportunities. Registration is open for 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 ✔
Leisure Activities
BarkinQ – Volunteers for Dogs Run by a dog-loving couple, rescuing stray or abandoned dogs to rehome abroad – not a shelter. 5573 2144, see their Facebook page for details.
Qatar National Library (QNL) C2 Registration is open to residents of Qatar 16 years old and above. 4454 0100, registration.qnl.qa/volunteer-at-qnl Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) Multiple locations Qatar's first volunteering charitable organisation, QRCS is an active member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. QRCS works to help vulnerable individuals and communities in Qatar and across the MENA region. 4402 7777, 16002 (hotline), app.qrcs.org.qa/Volunteering/ Qatar Volunteers A volunteer group that participates in fundraising events, blood donation, beach cleanups, and disaster response. See their Facebook page for 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. See their Facebook page for details.
Health and Fitness See Sports Activities and Health and Wellness in this section for comprehensive listings of activities and classes. ©
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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
Qatar National Library
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 in 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 • TAMUQ Library in Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) C2 4423 0040, library.tamu.edu/QATAR_LIBRARY/index.php • The Library in Qatar University (QU) C3 4403 6338/4097, qu.edu.qa/library/ • NU-Q Library in Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) C2 4454 5090, qatar.northwestern.edu • VCUQatar Library in Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) C2 4402 0587, qatar.vcu.edu/library
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 the reading room. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa Qatar Digital Library (QDL) C2 Developed as part of a 10-year Memorandum of Understanding on Partnerships 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 much 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. QNL members can pick up a membership card, while those not yet registered can do so by presenting their Qatar ID. Register at library.qnl.qa/selfreg. 4454 0100, qnl.qa ✔
Music Groups and Choirs
British Council Qatar D3 Information Centre has books, magazines, videos, DVDs and internet access. 800 5501, britishcouncil.qa ✔
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
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 ✔
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 ✔
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 ✔
Doha Jazz Performs several genres of jazz and other styles such as blues, Arabic and classical music. 5571 0746, dohajazz.com
Mathaf Library C2 A research library specialising in modern and contemporary Arab art from the region
Drumming Qatar Teaching African djembe drumming and rhythm. Open to all. Contact Patrick Dilley on 3384 2330, drummingqatar.com ✔
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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 ✔
Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park
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 ✔
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) at 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, for singers aged 14 – 18, is an ambitious youth choir, singing from the great classical and contemporary choral repertoires. Qatar Junior Choir is for younger boys and girls aged 8 – 13 years and is the feeder choir to the more 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 Please note that entry fees and opening timings change per season. Call ahead and check for up to date information. Adventure Rooms Qatar D4 Qatar's first 60-minute real life escape room game, where you need to solve puzzles, find keys, and beat the clock to escape. Suitable for ages 7 and above. 7050 0139, adventureroomsqa.com ✔
Leisure Activities
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
Baladna Park Located in Umm Al Hawaya near Al Khor, Baladna Park is an outdoor family entertainment park, which includes a restaurant, farm, zoo, lake, carnival area and outdoor activities and entertainment such as pedal car racing, cow chariot, trampoline, zip lining, bumper boats, obstacle course and more. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm, Friday noon – 8 pm, Saturday 10 am – 8 pm. Admission: QAR35 for adults aged 13 and above; QAR55 for children aged 3 – 12. 4424 6000, baladnapark.com ✔ Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Features 18 attractions with 56 rides and slides at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 6 pm. Admission: Juniors (below 1.2 m in height) QAR195, adults QAR250, family of four QAR500. Pre-booking is required and tickets can be purchased on Q-Tickets. 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 D4 An area of 27,500 sq m with more than 30 rides and attractions, which include the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster and tallest indoor drop tower. The theme park is split into three different time-dimensions: Oryxville is a portal of the ancient Arabian past; the City of Imagination focuses on the present day; and Gravity offers a gateway into a futuristic space age. Opening times: Monday 11 am – 10 pm, Tuesday to Saturday 2 pm – 11 pm. Closed on Sunday. Admission: Junior Ticket (4 – 12 years old): QAR160, Adult Ticket (13 years old and above): QAR235, children 4 and below enter for free. 4410 3444, dohaquest.com ✔ ©
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Doha Quest
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 times: Daily 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with QAR100 minimum charge. Top-up avaliable. 4427 2807/4017 8934, farahqatar.com ✔ Funderdome Multiple Locations An indoor family entertainment centre, which focuses on fun, healthy exercise and creative activities. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Prices vary per location. 4443 9740, funderdomedoha.com ✔ KidZania Doha D2 In Aspire Zone, children can explore a 5,500 sq m child-sized city, and perform real-life tasks with more than 60 handson activities designed for children aged 1 – 14. Opening times: 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, kidzania.qa ✔ North Sedra Farm Located in Ghashamiyya, in the north of Qatar, the family-friendly educational and entertaining agritourism farm is where visitors can pick strawberries, harvest vegetables, feed animals, play fun and outdoor activities, take a stroll around the lush greenery, learn about Qatari heritage and more. Opening times: Operates only in the winter season from October to April on Friday and Saturday 12:30 pm – 8 pm. Admission: QAR20 per person; free for children under the age of two. 6665 0388, northsedra.qa ✔ OliOli® Doha B4 The gift box-shaped recreation centre in Katara Cultural Village is an experiential children’s play museum, and a spacious indoor sanctuary with hands-on activities to inspire positive play where children are free to wander, wonder and discover in six spaces – Kinetic Gallery,
Inflata Park
Water Gallery, Fitness Gallery, teamLab Future Park, Creative Lab, and WonderSphere – designed to foster their creativity, curiosity and imagination. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 1 pm – 9 pm; closed on Sunday and Monday. Admission: QAR135 for children 2 – 16 years of age, QAR67 for children 12 to 13 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 times: Sunday – Saturday 2 pm – midnight, 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 free of charge and QAR3 for bowling socks. 4435 3054/3336 2722, qatarbowlingcenter.net ✔
City Center-Doha C4 Fun City Rides, activities and video games for the whole family. Opening times: 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 ✔ Inflata Park Qatar’s first indoor inflatable park attraction inside a mall, a custom-designed inflatable park of approximately 1,000 sq m designed to cater for up to 150 visitors per hour. The park is suitable for adults and kids over the age of three. Opening times: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 11 pm, Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 12:30 pm – midnight. Admission: Single Pass 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. 3325 5817, citycenterdoha.com ✔
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Angry Birds World
Al Maha Island
Gulf Mall C3
Angry Birds World The world's first Angry Birds World, featuring over 20 rides and attractions for all ages. Opening times: Indoor: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm – midnight; Outdoor: Saturday to Wednesday 6 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 6 pm – midnight. Admission: QAR100 individual card, QAR250 family card with minimum QAR50 top-up value. 4042 0444, angrybirdsworld.qa ✔
GOFUN Qatar An indoor facility, providing a variety of play areas and game machines. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 1 pm – 10 pm, Saturday 11 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4031 0651, gulfmalldoha.com ✔
Snow Dunes A snow park at -4˚C all year round, themed around a fantastical Arabian town, complete with an Arabian-style castle. Opening times: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – midnight, Friday 1 pm – midnight. Admission: Silver Package QAR180, Gold Package QAR240, Platinum Package QAR450. 4035 4444, snowdunes.qa ✔ Spark Sense and Play Early childhood centre with fun, educational workshops specifically designed for children. Opening times: 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. 5049 5607, thesparkplay.com ✔ Virtuocity A digital gaming hub equipped with full motion racing simulators, escape rooms and a multipurpose eSports arena. Opening times: 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 ✔
Ezdan Mall C3 Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. Opening times: Daily 2 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4479 6754, ezdanmall.qa ✔
Leisure Activities
Doha Festival City B2
Hyatt Plaza D2 Jungle Zone This indoor jungle-themed playground has rides for different age groups and a video arcade area. Opening times: 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 ✔
Landmark Mall C3 Circusland Has rides, games, trampolines and a large activity zone suitable for the whole family. Opening times: 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 ✔
Lusail City A3 Al Maha Island Dubbed as Qatar's Entertainment City, the 120,000 sq m island is located opposite Lusail Marina promenade. The latest entertainment destination in Qatar aims to promote tourism and create a high-tech entertainment zone for tourists. With the aim of attracting over 1.5 mn visitors a year, the island features Al Maha Drive, Lusail Winter Wonderland, Nammos Beach Club, and a high-end dining district. It is set to be an international music fest venue and more. Admission: Reservation to any of the island's venues is required for entry. Entry to the island costs QAR150 per car (redeemable). 4429 2978, almaha-island.com ✔ ©
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Al Maha Drive is reserved only for supercars and classic cars. Al Maha Drive Membership: QAR12,000 per year with free entrance to the island from the VIP gate, exclusive access to Al Maha Drive, valet parking in the VIP parking area, and priority booking for Al Maha Island restaurants. Lusail Winter Wonderland Jam-packed with festive fun, over 50 rides and attractions, food and drinks, and live entertainment presented by Qatar Airways. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 4 pm – 11 pm (last entry 10 pm), Thursday to Saturday 4 pm – 1 am (last entry is at midnight). Admission: Purchase of the entry wristband is required in advance online. Top-up of wristbands is available online and at the entry gate. lusailwinterwonderland.com ✔ Meryal Waterpark is a new, expansive waterpark in Rixos Qetaifan Island North – spanning over 281,000 sq m, featuring 36 waterslides and the tallest water slide in the world – the Iconic Tower will stand at 85 m with 12 waterslides. Opening times: Daily 8 am – 9 pm. Admission: Adults QAR310, Junior (1.2 m and below) QAR245 and free for children aged 2 and below. 4423 7818, qetaifanprojects.com/waterpark/ ✔ Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha is a popular destination for its pool and private beach as well as a Water Park, which features water fountains and slides, and an adventure trail; Aloha Surf Pool; and Kunuz Kids and Teens Club, which has a variety of creative activities for children, ranging from imaginative arts and crafts to cultural engagement. Opening times: Water Park daily 11 am – 7 pm daily; Aloha Surf Pool daily 11 pm – 8 pm; and Kunuz daily 10 am – 7 pm and Kunuz Teens daily noon – 9 pm weekends. Admission: weekdays QAR200 per adult, QAR100 per child, QAR400 per family (two adults and two children); weekends QAR350 per adult, QAR175 per child, QAR700 per family (two adults and two children) 4456 5656, waldorfastorialusaildoha.com ✔ WOW Park 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 family entertainment centre in Lusail Boulevard also features a dedicated toddler zone, Doha’s first and only mini-bowling, and the newest release of state-ofthe-art arcade games. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday noon – midnight, Friday 2 pm – midnight. Admission: Entry is free with charges per game, activity or experience. 4000 1109, wowpark.qa ✔
Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
Mall of Qatar C1 KidzMondo Doha More than 70 scaled-down businesses including a central plaza, fire station, clock tower, police station and hospital theatre. Opening times: 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 Attractions include 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 times: 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 times: 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 times: 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 an extensive range of games from consoles and cars, and flight simulators, through to an Escape Room, VR and arcade games. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4476 1127, hangoutqatar.com ✔
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The Pearl Island B4 Beach Centrale A new family-friendly destination with three climate-controlled pools – a main pool for adults with an artificial sandy beach, a second swimming pool and a waterpark for children. There are also changing rooms, lockers, and food and beverage kiosks. Opening times: Daily 6 am – 6 pm. Admission: Residents QAR50, visitors QAR100, children under the age of 2 enter for free. 800 6222 ✔
Jump Trampolines, soft play and plenty of physical activity. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: Regular QA60 (select activities two hours); Ultimate QAR90 (all activities for two hours). 3007 6888, 4447 9313, jumpqatar.com ✔
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 times: 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 times: 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 ✔
The Gate Mall C4 Museum of Illusions A collection of holograms, loptical illusions and installations for a brilliant, playful reminder that our assumptions about the world we perceive are often nothing but a spectre of illusions. Opening times: 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. 4020 6273, museumofillusions.qa ✔
Megapolis Entertainment Center B4 An indoor entertainment destination in Medina Centrale, offering an array of games and activities such as escape rooms, virtual reality simulators, bowling, darts, billiards, karaoke and more. Opening times: 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 ✔
Leisure Activities
Beach Centrale
Duck Lake Adjacent to Beach Centrale, the new Duck Lake features a large duck pond where the whole family can enjoy feeding the ducks and riding pedal boats, in addition to delighting in vast green areas, two cycling and walking tracks, and a beautiful 15 m water fountain. ✔
The Mall D4 Fun Day An indoor children's theme park. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday noon – 8:30 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Admission: QAR30 per child. 4465 7969, themalldoha.com ✔
Villaggio Mall D2 Gondolania Theme Park and Ice Arena The indoor theme park includes a 4D cinema, bowling, laser wars, go-karting, ice arena and more. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday noon – 9 pm, Thursday and Saturday 9 am – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with a minimum of QAR50 with top-up value per game/activity. 4403 9800, gondolania.com ✔ m
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It’s Camping Season By Ola Diab
C
amping season is here! As cooler weather approaches, camping trips are a popular pastime and an ideal getaway from the city.
The annual winter camping season usually begins in October and concludes in March – taking place during the country's cooler and more pleasant weather. However, this year's winter camping season 2023–24 began on 1 November 2023 and will conclude on 30 April 2024, according to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. Registration for camps is necessary during the winter camping season. Registration for booking spaces for the six-month long 2023–24 winter camping season opened on 22 October and closed on 31 October for all designated areas. Registration for central regions took place from 22 to 24 October, registration for the southern regions were open from 25 to 27 October; and registration for northern regions took place from 28 to 31 October. Registrations can be done electronically through the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change website mme.gov.qa and its mobile app, Oun, as well as through government service centres across the country. According to the Ministry, more than 2,000 camps are booked annually during the camping season. Campers can book camps in at least 17 areas, including Sealine, Al Shamal, Al Zubara, Dukhan, Zekreet, Al Khor, Khor Al Adaid, Al Waab, Fuwairit, Al Mazrooah, Al Maroona, Al Ghariya and more. Camping in some areas run for a specific time.
refundable security money. Camping in these areas run for a specific time. Applicants should be Qatari citizens aged 25 or above, and should adhere strictly to camping terms and conditions, and follow environmental protection laws. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has introduced measures against violators to protect and clean the environment in cooperation with working observers. As an incentive aimed at pushing campers to preserve the environment, the ministry launched the Best Camp Award during the 2022–23 winter camping season. The camping areas are still open to the public to camp, swim, beach, barbecue and more. Non-Qatari residents and visitors are allowed to set-up their own short-term desert camps with makeshift tents. However, camping RVs, vans, trailers and other forms of long-term desert camps are not allowed without a licence or registration. In addition, many local tour companies and some hotels organise fullday, half-day and evening excursions, which include food and beverages, meals, entertainment and other activities. The excursions can be arranged via a hotel or through any local tour company. See Local Tour Companies in Sightseeing in the Discovering Qatar section.
Depending on the area, applicants can pay anything from QAR3,000 to QAR10,000, in addition to refundable security money, which will be refunded after the camping season comes to an end. For example, those who want to camp in Al Reem Reserve, Al Maroona, Abu Zahlof, Al Zubara, Al Udaid, Al Khuraij South, and Bu Samra pay QAR10,000 as charges in addition to QAR10,000 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE © MARHABA
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Sealine or Mesaieed Beach Home to the Sealine Beach, a Murwab Resort and Qatar’s popular sand dunes, Sealine or Mesaieed is the most popular desert and beach destination in winter and throughout the year. It’s also the most popular destination for camping with most tourist or adventure companies setting up camp there. This is where people can spend a day, a night or longer to enjoy the outdoors by swimming, sand duning or bashing, bonfires, barbecues and more. Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has a medical clinic at Sealine, which has been operating for more than 10 years. Open only during the weekends, the easily-accessible Sealine Medical Clinic is located on the main road adjacent to the busy beach, resort, mosque, shopping area, and other services and amenities in the area. HMC's fleet is ready to respond to all emergency calls from campers at Mesaieed during the camping season. HMC's 4x4 ambulances have been modified to cope with the special terrain at Mesaieed, to enable them to reach patients safely and swiftly.
Glamping Glamping is where stunning nature meets modern luxury. It is glamorous camping, and describes a style of camping with amenities and resort-style services not usually associated with 'traditional' camping. There are day or night camping trips in addition to overnight trips with more than camping activities, including dune bashing, quad biking, swimming, and more. Where to experience glamping in Qatar: • 365 Adventures • Al Khor Camp • Al Majles Resort by Doha Bus • Outdoor 369 • Private Campest • Regency Sealine Camp • Sarab Camp by The Torch Doha There are other various glamping opportunities in Qatar which can be anything from tents to caravans to cabins. Look online – mainly Instagram – to find glamping sites in Qatar. m
CAMPING DOS AND DONTS DOS • Camps should have numbers, which are issued by the Ministry of Municipality. The numbers should be displayed prominently in at least A4 size. Campers are required to show their licences to the inspectors whenever needed and allow them to inspect the premises to ensure compliance with rules and regulations. • Campers should also strictly adhere to provisions of laws and ministerial decisions. • Campers should adhere to the country's environmental protection laws, and preserve marine and coastal environment. • Campers should cooperate with patrolling units. The licencee of the camp bears full
responsibility for the camp, and the safety and security of people and properties inside the camp. In addition, there should be security guards at large camps. DONTS • The licence issued to a camper is for personal use. Campers are not allowed to rent their camp or the location of their camp to others. • It is prohibited to use the camp for other activities, other than camping. • It is prohibited to use materials which are harmful to the environment. Note: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has the right to carry out inspections to ensure compliance with prescribed precautionary measures. ©
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Health and Wellness Marhaba updates this section every issue, but as information may change after going to press, check first for up to date details. If your organisation is listed on these pages and you need to amend your entry, or if you would like to be included in future issues, let us know: email marhaba@marhaba.com.qa. Locations can be found on the map of Doha at the front of the guide. Also see:
• Leisure Activities for dance classes, fishing, and motor sports clubs, and Sports Activities for fitness classes, gyms, clubs and associations – both are in this section • Places to Stay in the Hospitality in Qatar section for a list of hotels and fitness facilities
Health and Wellness
Holistic Wellness Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Ladies-only wellness retreat with hydrothermal facilities and 'The Worlds' hydro-wellness areas (Oriental, Mystic, Mineral and Floral); yoga also available. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Holistic advice, alternative therapies and life coaching. 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 Four Seasons Hotel Doha B4 The hotel offers 'Thrive' in conjunction with Evolve, a customised wellness programme with one-to-one consultations. 4494 8888, fourseasons.com/doha Heenat Salma Eco-farm and Camp Al Sheehaniya Private outdoor classes; 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
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 Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Pilates on Monday, yoga on Tuesday/Saturday. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq Encore Pilates The Gate Mall C4 The Pearl Island B4 Qatar's first dedicated studio for Reformer Pilates. 4020 6430, oxfitnesslab.com
InterContinental Doha The City B4 Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Mat Pilates, Reformer, posture assessment with a certified physio. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha The St. Regis Doha B4 Gender-specific yoga, Pilates, and Power Plate classes. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com
Yoga 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 Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Vinyasa yoga. Call first for monthly schedule. 4494 8888, fourseasons.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 Classes, yoga therapy. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Power yoga sessions and monthly full moon. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/hotel‑doha 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
Checked & Updated October 2023
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 The country's first cryosauna; sessions last 90 seconds to 3 minutes, with temperatures dropping to –180˚ C. 4484 8183, ritzcarlton.com/doha
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Call first for monthly schedule. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha
Waldorf Astoria Doha, Lusail A4 Zen Wellness Yoga Zone on the terrace and My Equilibria instinctive wellness training installation. 4456 5656, hilton.com m
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