W I N T E R 2021/22 I N O.8 2 EVENTS IN QATAR LEISURE ACTIVITIES SPORTS IN QATAR SPORTS CALENDAR SPORTING ACTIVITIES HEALTH AND WELLNESS FEATURES QATAR’S CYCLING TRACKS
Events and Activities in
Qatar
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Discover the most popular tours in Qatar
Discover Doha
Discover the Dunes and the Inland Sea
Explore Doha on a fully guided tour to learn about the rich history and the future plans of this great city. From QAR 102
Embark on a four-wheel drive adventure through the desert to one of only 3 places in the world, where sand dunes meet the sea. From QAR 398
Discover Souq Waqif
Discover Regional Cuisine
Explore the vibrant alleys of Souq Waqif and its many hidden gems with one of our expert local guides. From QAR 180
Discover true Arabian hospitality through a unique cultural experience and local food journey. From QAR 390
Discover Arabian Horses
Discover the Zekreet Peninsula
Experience Qatar’s gleaming, ultramodern equestrian center and discover the history behind the world recognised Arabian breeds. From QAR 500
Embark on a privately guided tour to the North of Qatar where the famous rock formations dominate the landscape.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
From QAR 909
To view our full range of tours, airport services and transfers visit our website, scan QR code or call us
discoverqatar.qa +974 4423 7103 Prices are correct as at the date published 01/12/2021 and are subject to change.
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Marhaba_Cover.indd 1 E-GUIDE ©
MARHABA
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2 DISCOVER QATAR M82 AD.indd 1
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Events and Activities
PRINT and ONLINE
marhaba.qa
Leisure Activities Clubs, societies and activities, from Arts and Crafts to Water Parks and Play Zones
Feature – Qatar’s Cycling Tracks Qatar is becoming cycling-friendly with more and more cycling paths being laid out. Getting on your bike and cycling around Qatar has never been easier!
Sports in Qatar n overview of the local sports scene, including Qatar’s Sports A Federations, Olympic Committee, and FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM
Sports Events December 2021 – March 2022 Sports Activities A full listing of clubs, societies and activities, from Archery to Watersports
Health and Wellness • Holistic Wellness • Pilates • Yoga
Events and Activities
Events in Qatar December 2021 – March 2022
The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change. Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates. ©
MARHABA
WINTER 2021/22
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Wyndham Grand Regency
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28 Sharg Zone/ Al Khulaifat 29 Ras Bu Abboud 30 Duhail 31 Umm Lekhba 32 Madinat Khalifa (N) 33 Al Markhiya 34 Madinat Khalifa (S) 35 Kulaib 36 Al Messila 37 New Al Hitmi/ Bin Omran Hamad Medical City 38 Al Sadd 39 Al Nasr/Al Sadd Al Mirqab Al Jadeed 40 New Slata 41 Nuaija 42 Al Hilal 43 Al Maamoura, Nuaija 44 Nuaija 45 Old Airport 46 Mesaimeer/ Al Thumama 47 Al Thumama 48 Doha Int'l Airport 49 Hamad Int'l Airport/ Banana Island
Al Furousiya St
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Al Jasra Al Bidda Mohd Bin Jasim Mushaireb Barahat Al Jufairi Old Al Ghanim Al Souq Wadi Al Sail Arumaila, Armeilla Al Bidda Abdul Aziz Al Doha Al Jadeeda Old Al Ghanim Sharg Zone/ Al Hitmi/Al Rufaa Sharg Zone/Slata Doha Port Wadi Al Sail Al Rumeila, Armeilla Bin Mahmoud Bin Mahmoud Rawdat Al Khail Al Mansoura/ Bin Derhem Najma Umm Ghuwailina
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Full details of Qatar’s districts and zones at gisqatar.org.qa
Appletree Nursery
MoI HQ
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(zones comprise one or more districts, some of which are listed below)
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THE ZONES OF DOHA D
Al Messila Resort & Spa
Al Messila
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Racing & Equestrian Club
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Messila
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Al Wajba St
Metro Stations
Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
36 37 Medical
Al Rayyan Al Qadeem
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QBS QTV
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French Nursery
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Red line Lusail - HIA T1 - Al Wakra Green line Al Riffa - Al Mansoura
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Swiss International
Makkah St
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Al Gharrafa
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Kanga’s Pouch
Souq Al Ali
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Starfish Lane Kids
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Interchange
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Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
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Ansar Gallery
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Doha Sports Park
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Qatar University
Doha Golf Club Lagoona Mall
Ritz-Carlton
Grand Mondrian Hyatt
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Canada
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C. African Rep
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B3
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B3
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C3
Peru
Croatia
C4
Philippines
B3
Cuba
B3
Poland
B4
Cyprus
C4
Portugal
C4
Djibouti
B4
Romania
C4
Dom. Rep.
B3
Russia
B4
Ecuador
B4
Senegal
C3
El Salvador
B4
Serbia
B3
Eritrea
E4
Singapore
B4
eSwatini
B4
Somalia
C4
Ethiopia
B3
South Africa
B3
France
C4
Spain
B4
Gambia
E4
Sri Lanka
E4
Georgia
C4
Sudan
Germany
C3
Sweden
C4
Ghana
B3
Switzerland
B3
Greece
B4
Syria
C4
Hungary
B3
Tajikistan
C3
India
C4
Tanzania
C4
Indonesia
D3
Thailand
Iran
C4
Tunisia
C4
Iraq
C4
Turkey
B4
A
B4 C4
C3
B
C4
C4
C4
Uganda
B3
Ivory Coast
B4
Ukraine
B3
Japan
B4
United Kingdom
C4
Jordan
C4
United States
Kazakhstan
B3
of America
C3
Kenya
B3
Uruguay
C3
Korea (S)
B4
Venezuela
B4
Kosovo
C4
Vietnam
B3
C
m ad
I/ C –
Rawdat Al Khail St
C orridor
See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA
St
Al Meera
Air Force I/C
Free Zone
Qatar Free Zone
Ras Bufontas Qatar Free Zone
E
Kahramaa
Al Weteyyat
Hamad Int’l Airport
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Austria
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C4
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B3
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Oryx Airport Hotel Concourse C
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Al
St
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Meteorology
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Medical Commission Drainage Dept
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C4
Libya
C4
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Safari Mind Institute
Berlitz
al
Sa Um ba h
Liberia
B3
Australia
Hamad International Airport
48
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Qatar Ind Tech QDC Bangladesh
E Ring Rd
In
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Qatar Red Crescent
tri
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44
45 jm
Park House
Summit KG
Tank Farm
Doha Mall
Elder Tree Nursery
The Mall IAID
Na
Al Jazeera Academy
Al Ahli Sports Club
t
Pak Education Centre
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Regency Kahramaa Halls
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Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel Capital Al Liwan Police Concorde Jarir Bookstore
C Ring Rd
ha
Do
D Ring Rd
Doha Academy
B4
Stadium 974 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Doha Marriott
Sharq Village & Spa
National Museum
41 42
40
German School Doha
Lebanon
C4
Banana Island by Anantara
16 23 14 15 27 Bin Mahmoud
24
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National Museum of Qatar
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Bo
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55
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Al Sadd
Al Sadd St
Joaan
Kuwait
B4
Doha Port
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NCCCR Rumailah Heart
Vet Surgery
B3
Albania
Italy
Al Mourjan
11 12 2 1 7 22 3 13 4 5 6 17 oud St
Avenue Millennium Royal Plaza
Four Seasons
ni or
Al C
Qatar National Theatre
e Al Khal
Jawaan St
Corniche
Fire Station
hm Bin Ma
Al Asmakh Mall
60che
Hamad Ambulance Al Bidda Hospital
Wyndham Grand Regency
Ooredoo
Hotel Park Sheraton
Park
Women’s
British Council
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Qatar Post
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City Center Retaj Doha Rayyan
Katara The Pearl-Qatar Lagoona Mall Al Bidda Park Souq Waqif National Museum of Qatar Grand Mosque QNCC Al Shaqab Mathaf Museum
Marriott Hotel Sharq Village & Spa Fisherman’s Wharf Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche Orrie Oryx City Center-Doha Hotel Park Hilton Hotel InterContinental Hotel
Diploma
St
The Gate
20 10
Lulu
la
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63
Qatar Sports Club
Volvo
6 37 Medical
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St
64
Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
Town Centre
DOHA HOP-OFF BUS SIGHTSEEING ROUTE stops at
rA
Al Jazi Gardens
Al
Al Jazeera
n Al d Bi me Ah
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InterContinental
61
t
4 35
St Regis
a Are tic
Ja
QBS QTV
DESS
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Beach
Perlita Gardens
Beach
Floresta Gardens
ar St
Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda
Qatar Guest Centre
Sedra Arjaan Residences by Rotana
31
5/6 O Int’change ma
S iya rkh Ma
Edison
Viva Bahriya
Novo Cinemas
Al Qassar
5/6 Park
Onaiza St
33
t
29
30
SEK
Al Hazm
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Chouiefat
Omar Al M uk ht
West Bay Al Meera
Starfish Lane Kids
Medina Centrale
23
Porto Arabia
The Pearl-Qatar
Institut Francais du Qatar
Kanga’s Pouch Elder Tree KG
1
Newton
Newton
CCQ Boys
Porsche
20
21 High St
Al Khafji St
St
Al M
Edison
St
18
22
2
Katara
66
67 zm
L
4
Lusail St
68 Ha
ya
t Lycee Wadi Rawd a n S Voltaire
Al Ghaf St
h ex
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Le
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6
Oyster
Diplomatic Club
The PearlQatar
15 12
ette ois
Lusai l St
Ministry of Education
Marsa Malaz Kempinski
Qanat Quartier
Hilton The Pearl
Legtaifiya
7
f the antic
Afghanistan
Bosnia & H
Lusa
rfa
a Al T
Lusail Marina
Vendome Mall
Energy City Qatar
Qatar Petroleum District
s2
EMBASSY LOCATIONS
Fox Hills North
Lusail Towers
Comm
aS
5
Qetaifan Island North
Qetaifan Island North
B Square Mall
Airport (49) I/C
Workers Health Centre
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Events December – March
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marhaba.qa
See the key at the end of the calendar for contact details of various venues. Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation due to COVID-19. See daily updates at marhaba.qa and follow the advice of the Ministry of Public Health.
December 2021 Until 1 Feb 2022
Events December – March
The Year of Culture Qatar – USA 2021 Every year, Qatar Museums runs a cultural exchange programme called ‘Years of Culture’, with exhibitions, festivals and events. This 10th edition celebrates the relations between the State of Qatar and the US through partnerships between American and Qatari organisations, both at home and abroad. See news and events at yearsofculture.qa and marhaba.qa
Jeff Koons: Lost in America The exhibition presents Until 31 Mar 2022 works from the exceptional career of one of the world’s best-known contemporary artists. This is Koons’ first exhibition in the Gulf region, and examines American culture as per his autobiography. More than 60 works that span the artist's 40-year long career can been seen across 16 galleries, each piece introduced by Koons, including paintings, sculptures and recent pieces being shown for the first time. Part of The Year of Culture Qatar – USA 2021. qm.org.qa QM Gallery Al Riwaq Until Virgil Abloh: Figures of Speech American artist 31 Mar 2022 and designer Virgil Abloh's first museum exhibition Jeff Koons, Balloon Dog (Orange), in the Middle East, a two-decade retrospective 1994–2000. Mirror-polished featuring more than 55 works of Abloh's diverse stainless steel with transparent pioneering media practice. Ranging from visual colour coating, The Mugrabi Collection © Jeff Koons. arts to music, fashion, architecture and design, Photo: Tom Powel Imaging prototypes are presented alongside finished artworks and products. Part of The Year of Culture Qatar – USA 2021. qm.org.qa Fire Station Artist in Residence Ongoing
QNL Heritage Library permanent exhibition More than 400 books, manuscripts, historical photographs, maps, globes and travellers' instruments, depicting the interaction between Arabs and the West over the last few centuries, along with the history of science, literature, writing and travel. Special events include The Holy Kaaba Online Exhibition and Between Science and Art: Early Photography in the Middle East, on until the end of the year. qnl.qa
7–9
2021 WISE Summit Global education stakeholders and innovators convene for one of the largest gatherings shaping the future of education, this time under the theme 'Generation Unmute: Reclaiming our Future through Education'. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused great disruption with many kept out of schools and colleges, and others are struggling in the workplace. This, together with issues such as climate change, growing inequality, and political instability, means we must empower the young and underprivileged to overcome these crises. wise-qatar.org +QNCC In-person and online ©
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Events December – March
What's on at National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) Until American Muscle Cars in Qatar NMoQ presents 15 Feb 2022 three iconic American cars that tell the story of changing cultural needs and public perception: the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Special Edition 305 Turbo 1981, the Oldsmobile 4-4-2 1968, and the Chevrolet Corvette 1972. A boom in car ownership following World War II saw vehicle owners modifying their cars for more speed and power, and the popularity of the hot rod scene. American companies like General Motors and Ford began designing and building high-performance vehicles to appeal to younger consumers, leading to the birth of the muscle car. Ongoing Virtual exhibitions
Qatar’s Culinary Journey Discover ingredients, dishes, objects, and stories related to Qatari cuisine. Habitats and Shelters Inspired by the Qatar Natural Environments and Life in Al Barr (desert) permanent galleries, exploring how humans and creatures take shelter in times of uncertainty in order to survive. Take part by sharing a photograph, illustration or sketch of your safe space during self-quarantine – email your entry to nmoqexhibitions@qm.org.qa
Opening times: Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Adults: QAR 50. Children age 16 and under: Free. Students: QAR25 with valid university student card. Groups (25+ people): QAR25, pre-registration required. Residents of Qatar: Free with valid QID/driving licence. Culture Pass Plus and Family Members, ICOM Card holders: Free with valid membership. Visitors to the Desert Rose Café, Jiwan Restaurant and the gift shops do not need to purchase an entry ticket. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4 12 – 17
Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition Rising local and international designers, female entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts showcase their latest collections, featuring daily fashion shows, forums and workshops. The event is an excellent opportunity to purchase exclusive clothes, perfumes and make-up by contemporary fashion designers. øDECC
Until Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) A Qatar Tourism initiative celebrating the 15 Dec 2021 country's diverse food, beverage and hospitality offerings. Food enthusiasts are invited to enjoy live cooking, competitions and masterclasses at Al Bidda Park and Doha Corniche. visitqatar.qa 18
Qatar National Day 2021 An annual public holiday marking Qatar's unification in 1878. This year's theme is 'Ancestral Meadows: A Matter of Trust', based on the poetry of the Founder of Qatar, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani. The slogan reflects that National Day celebrations should have a long-term impact, not temporary, and reminds the people of Qatar of their standing and solidarity among themselves, and their devotion to the Founder. The National Day Parade will be held on Doha Corniche, with other activities and festivities coinciding with the final of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021™. News about events and activities can be found at marhaba.qa
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marhaba.qa The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and QM Gallery Al Riwaq
The museum's galleries, IDAM restaurant, MIA Café and the gift shop, are closed until further notice for renovation. The Education Centre remains open – the MIA Library opening hours are Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1.30 pm – 7 pm. There is a free interactive guide to the museum visitors can enjoy while it is closed. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa C4 Until Qatar Balloon Festival An 11 day festival with 30 balloons offering sunrise balloon 19 Dec 2021 flights, tethered ballon flights, and a nightglow experience. visitqatar.qa ^Katara Until Virtual exhibitions at ^Katara: 31 Dec 2021 Women of the Pandemic An exhibition in cooperation with Qatar America Institute For Culture (QAIC) and a collaboration between female Qatari and American artists. Peak of Clouds Images of landmarks in Doha by photographer Abdulla Salem Srour from, called Peak of the Clouds as it was shot from up high. Some of the works were included in the Paris Exhibition and in the virtual exhibition Under the Microscope by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) in 2020. Voice of Colour The rhythm, music and movement of traditional Gulf dances vividly captured by Kuwaiti artisit May Al Saad. Prism Stunning paintings by Iraqi artisit Falah Al Saeedi, with much use of colour layering and geometric patterns, creating timeless classics in a new format. Until 31 Jan 2022
Until 31 Mar 2022
Events December – March
Until Beautiful Memories of Palestine The MIA 31 Dec 2021 Library presents a pictorial journey through Palestine taken from its extensive rare book collection. The majority of books in the exhibition date from 1610 to 1930 CE, written in European languages and originally published as travel journals, stories and histories. There are a series of webinars, embroidery workshops, landscape paintings and more to complement the exhibition. Part of the Doha Capital of Culture of the Islamic World.
Doha Capital of Culture in the Islamic World Under the theme 'Our Culture is Enlightenment', this yearlong event is coordinated by the Ministry of Culture in conjunction with the Islamic World Organization for Education, Science and Culture (ISESCO), the Qatar National Committee for Education, Culture and Science, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Qatar Museums, Katara Cultural Village, Qatar Foundation, and many more. Events include workshops, museum tours, discussions and exhibitions. dcciw.qa/en
Christian Dior Designer Of Dreams The exhibition is the House of Dior’s first retrospective in the Middle East, celebrating nearly 75 years of creative design, haute couture dresses and works from the collection of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. There will be pieces that have never been shown before, including ensembles from the private collection of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. qm.org.qa, m7.org.qa M7 Design District, Msheireb Downtown Doha
©
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marhaba.qa What's on at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art
Events December – March
To be confirmed
Kader Attia: On Silence A major solo exhibition dedicated to the work of the artist over the last two decades. A wide range of work is featured, across all media with site-specific installations, sculptures, collages, drawings, video, and photography. On Silence explores postcolonial trauma and psychiatric ‘repair’ at the social and individual level. The artist aims to provoke the viewer’s experience when encountering works placed at various levels in the museum galleries: seen from above, from underneath, and from within, but rarely straight on. There will be two important commissions featured
Chaos+Repair=Universe, 2014. Mirror fragments, metal wires, approx. 60 cm diameter. Installation view 'Sacrifice and Harmony', MMK Museum für Moderne Kunst, Frankfurt/Main, 2016. Courtesy the artist, and Galleria Continua. Private Collection. © Axel Schneider
in connection with Doha.
Ongoing
Mathaf Collection, Summary, Part 2 Displayed in the upper floor galleries, with 20th and 21st century modern and contemporary art from the Arab World, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe – all historically connected to Qatar and the Arab Peninsula.
Ongoing
Art Lessons with Ismael Azzam Learn techniques in portraiture using pencils, charcoal and paint. Every Wednesday and Thursday 4 pm – 7 pm; free admission, limited to 15 participants only.
Apr 2020
Until Artists Gathering Group A collaboration workshop with Doha art hub, an artists 27 Dec 2021 platform, where artists meet with you. Includes activities, live painting and discussions, and announcements of new events. Every Monday 3 pm – 7 pm; online registration required. Opening times Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission fees Adults: QAR 50. Children age 16 and under: Free. Students: QAR25 with valid university student card. Groups (25+ people): QAR25, pre-registration required. Residents of Qatar: Free with valid QID/driving licence. Culture Pass Plus and Family Members, ICOM Card holders: Free with valid membership. Museum Pass: QAR100 for admission to all museums and venues, valid for three consecutive days from the date of first admission. Fees may apply for temporary exhibitions. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2
January 2022 13 – 22
Doha International Book Fair Organised by the Ministry of Culture with the participation of hundreds of publishing houses representing more than 30 countries, alongside workshops and seminars. 31.dohabookfair.qa/en øDECC
23 – 27
5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) In order for the world’s Least Developed Countries to deliver global development goals by 2030, a new 10-year programme of action is needed. This major conference will see heads of state and governments agree on a plan to achieve the last 10 years of implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Development Goals across the LDCs. un.org/ldc5 Venue/format to be confirmed
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Qatar Health 2022 A collaboration between Hamad Medical Corporation and the Ministry of Public Health in preparation for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. This international virtual academic event will cover multidisciplinary collaboration in preparation for the 2022 World Cup, best practice and lessons learned from sports mass gatherings, and healthcare preparations for the 2022 World Cup. hamad.qa
19 – 22
Fourth World Association for Sport Management Conference A focus on sports business practice and issues. Under the theme 'Bringing the World Together: Global and Local Perspectives on Sport Management', students, scholars, practitioners, and professionals can share expertise and knowledge about the global sport business industry. wasmorg.com
21 –23
Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference Hosted and organised by Qatar Armed Forces, DIMDEX 2022 will take place under the theme 'Connecting the World’s Maritime Defence and Security Community'. Attended by key decision makers and industry leaders in the maritime defence and security industry, and exhibitors showcasing the latest technologies and products. A number of high-level agreements are signed during the three-day event. dimdex.com +QNCC
22 – 26
Agriteq The Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ) is the country's premier expo for the agricultural sector and is an ideal opportunity for industry specialists to explore a wide range of agricultural technologies, equipment and related products, while the concurrent International Environmental Exhibition (EnviroteQ) will present environmental solutions and is a platform to help environmental technology providers showcase latest products and solutions. agriteq.com øDECC
Events December – March
March
Upcoming events 24 – 26 May
Milipol Qatar Milipol Qatar is held every two years and showcases the latest innovative products and services in the field of public and industrial security. en.milipolqatar.com øDECC
6 – 9 June
Project Qatar The Qatari construction sector is the fastest growing in the Gulf region. The expo provides easy market access into this lucrative market, making it essential for everyone wishing to seize a share of these opportunities, whether as a buyer or supplier. projectqatar.com øDECC
Oct 2023 – Mar 2024
Expo 2023 Doha, Qatar Under the theme 'Green Desert, Better Environment', The International Horticultural Expo will bring together the world asking visitors 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. dohaexpo2023.gov.qa Al Bidda Park ©
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marhaba.qa Throughout the Year Lectures, exhibitions and workshops • Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Dean’s Lecture Series. 4454 8400, qatar.cmu.edu C2 • Embrace Doha Tours, workshops and events aimed at enriching the cultural experience of expats and visitors. embracedoha.net • Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar Faculty Lectures. 4457 8100, qatar.georgetown.edu C2 • Katara Exhibitions, cultural and music events and workshops. Call Centre: 182, katara.net B4
Events December – March
• Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Exhibitions, tours, workshops and artist encounters. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2 • Museum of Islamic Art Exhibitions, tours, workshops and educational programmes, chamber music, park bazaar. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa D4 • National Museum of Qatar Tours for adults and families, activities for schoolchildren. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4 • Qatar Foundation Convocations, summits, tours, and lifestyle and business-related workshops. 4454 0000, qf.org.qa C2 • Qatar National Library Workshops, educational and academic programmes, silent book 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 Regular film screenings and festivals, workshops and educational programmes. dohafilminstitute.com • Doha Jazz Live music around town – jazz, blues, salsa, classical and Arabic Maqam. dohajazz.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, regular tribute shows in Giwana Ballroom, and Cork & Canvas evenings. 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 Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation. The Sports Events Calendar can be found in the Sports section.
Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba: marhaba.qa, marhaba.qa/eguides MarhabaGuideQatar @MarhabaQatar MarhabaGuideQatar marhabainformationguide
Checked & Updated October 2021
To be included in our listings, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa m
+Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Qatar Foundation C2 4470 7000, qncc.qa øDoha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) C4 4033 1111, decc.qa • Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) visitqatar.qa ^Katara Lusail Street B4 182, katara.net EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
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Leisure Activities
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✔ Indicates either an activity for children or an activity in which children can participate.
Arts and Crafts 7th Heaven Arts Center D3 A visual art centre in Al Waab, offering workshops in printmaking, ceramics, drawing, painting, graphic design, photography, Arabic calligraphy and more. 7thheavenarts.com ✔ 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 ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) Multiple locations 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, 4427 1166 (Al Wukair), 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 B4 Courses and workshops in photography, printmaking, design, drawing, painting, ceramics and more. 4408 0244, dohakac.com ✔ Katara Art Laboratory at Building 18 at Katara B4 Offers art programmes, training and workshops for different ages. 5011 1751/52, info@kataraartlab.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 KAC 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
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@qatar.net.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.
Visual Art Center at Katara B4 Acts under the umbrella of 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. katara.net
Boat and Fishing Trips, and Watersports Many tour companies offer half- and full-day dhow trips and fishing trips, which often include lunch. Trips to Safliya Island are popular and watersports are available at an extra cost. See Sightseeing in the Discovering Qatar section for tour companies and Sports Activities in the Events and Activities section for watersports. AquaSports (Previously Paddle Qatar) B4/C4 Runs a range of tours, camping activities, school, educational and team building trips, beach barbecue and kayaking tours at The Pearl-Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). 6696 3494, aquasportsq.com ✔ Blue Pearl Experience Multiple locations Organises outdoor adventure, camps and watersports activities at The Pearl-Qatar, Doha Golf Club, Fuwairit, Zekreet and Sealine. 6660 2830, bluepearlexperience.com ✔ 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 ✔ ©
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marhaba.qa 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
Leisure Activities
Regatta Sailing Academy B4 Windsurfing instruction offered for all ages at Katara Beach. 5550 3484, regattasailingacademy.com Ronautica Middle East B4 Yacht charters, day boat charters and fishing trips. Contact the Harbour Master at The Pearl-Qatar. 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 Cineco, Villaggio Mall D2 Offers 13 cinemas including one IMAX 3D. 4451 7001 Cinema Land, Landmark Mall C3 Offers three screens. 4487 5222 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 Mall Cinema, The Mall D4 Offers three cinemas. 4467 8666 Novo Cinema Call Centre 4031 5803, novocinemas.com/qatar • Novo Cinema, 01 Mall E3 Five-screen cinema. • Novo Cinema, Doha Oasis D4 19-screen cinema. • Novo Cinema, Mall of Qatar C1 19-screen cinema, IMAX, and MX4D. • Novo Cinema, Souq Waqif D4 Four standard theatres and a VIP 7-star screen. • Novo Cinema, The Pearl-Qatar B4 10 screens 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 Five screens with VIP screen. 4017 1614 The Cinema Palace, The Royal Plaza D3 Offers three screens. 4432 0938 VOX Cinemas, Doha Festival City B2 A 19-screen cinema multiplex including one 4DX. 4435 4444 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
Clubs and Hobbies Doha Stitches A ladies only sewing and crafting non-profit charity group where members use their sewing and crafting skills to give back. Join their 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 Facebook group for more details. Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) C3 Raising environmental awareness and conservation. 4487 4125/7301, fec.qa (Arabic) ✔ Friends of Nature (FON) in Ezdan Mall C3 A nonprofit organisation, which organises environmental awareness programmes and activities. 7002 0543 (Arabic) ✔ HOG Qatar Chapter (Harley Owners Group®) Aims to increase the level of enthusiasm toward Harley Davidson motorcycles. harley-davidsondoha.com Qatar Astronomy Club For anyone who loves astronomy, stargazing, or is generally interested in the beauty of Qatar's night sky. See their Facebook page for more details. ✔ 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 4292/91/90, 4469 4349 (girls), 4465 9791 (boys), qatarchess.com ✔ Qatar Duners Connect with other bikers, and take on the dunes. Join their Facebook group for details. Qatar Flying Club Earn a private pilot’s licence. 4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) The federation organises motor and motorcycling rallies, and accepts volunteers interested in marshalling at the rallies. 4437 9884, qmmf.com Qatar Natural History Group (QNHG) Share a broad range of interests including archaeology, geology, botany, marine life, conservation and the natural world. qnhg.org ✔ Qatar 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 aims to communicate the importance of reading and create
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Qatar Scientific Club
See Sports Activities in the Events and Activities section for a comprehensive list of sports clubs.
Comedy Stand Up Comedy Qatar (SUCQ) A coalition of comedians living in Qatar, hosting stand up comedy shows regularly. See their Facebook page for details.
Culinary
Brava Studio
interest in reading among all residents. Qatar Reads hosts a variety of outreach initiatives. To attend or volunteer, visit qatarreads.qa ✔
Qatar Culinary Professionals (QCP) D3 An association representing professional chefs in the food service industry in Qatar. 4418 0654, qatarcp.org
Qatar Scientific Club E3 Over 4,000 members attend classes and seminars including scuba diving, remote-control aero modelling, astronomy and electronics. Children aged 9 – 12 can join the Children’s Club. 4469 6200, qsc.org.qa (Arabic) ✔
The Cooking Academy C3 A local culinary start-up providing cooking classes for professionals and food lovers. 4039 0497, cookingacademy.qa
SustainableQatar An independent, volunteer-based organisation addressing environmental issues relevant to Qatar. sustainableqatar.com
See Education Courses, Tutoring and Lectures and Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses in the Education section.
The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar Officially recognised by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. Join events, activities and outings. qatarelvisfans.qa
Dance
Youth Hobbies Center D4 Photography programmes for teens at Katara. Basic skills required. 4408 1812, youthobbies.org ✔
Clubs – Recreational A few of the social clubs in and outside of Doha provide a wide range of facilities for sport and leisure activities. Many membership options are available and cater for singles, couples and families. • Al Khor Community For information on social clubs in Al Khor call 4473 3666/35 or visit akcommunity.org (the three clubs mentioned below are for Qatargas and Al Khor International School employees only) Al Thakira (Dhakira) Club Al Nakheel Club Al Waha Club • Dukhan Water Sports 4014 1894 (for employees only) • Indian Cultural Centre D3 4468 6607 • Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) Clubs Al Banush Club 4409 1777 (for employees only)
Leisure Activities
Deema Community Center Offers cooking and baking workshops for children. 5593 1053, see their Facebook page for details. ✔
Cultural and Language Courses
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-Qatar 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 ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) Multiple locations Classical and contemporary dances of India, jazz, classical ballet; contemporary, dance and hip hop for teens and kids. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, 4427 1166 (Al Wukair), iaidonline.org ✔ InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Offer salsation, zumba and other dance classes. 4484 4444, doha.intercontinental.com International Centre for Music (ICMQatar) Multiple locations One of the pioneers in Qatar to offer courses to learn the solos and variations in the classical as well as contemporary ballet. 4467 1354, 4490 7878, icmqatar.com ✔ ©
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marhaba.qa 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
Doha Mums
Leisure Activities
Skills Development Centre (SDC) Multiple locations 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 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha B4 Offers jazz, zumba and hip hop classes. 4484 8000, ritzcarlton.com ✔ Yama Yoga Studios C4 At Asas Twin Towers, Al Dafna, offers ballet, broadway jazz, pop and hip hop dance classes. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com ✔
Debating and Public Speaking Al Khor Toastmasters Meetings on the second and fourth Monday every month at 7 pm on Zoom. 6678 2272, alkhortoastmasters.org Birla Gavel Club D4 At Birla Public School. Fee: first year QAR225 and annual QAR100. 7727 9583 ✔ Doha Toastmasters Club D4 Meetings on first and third Saturday from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm on Zoom. 5516 9399, doha.toastmastersclubs.org Doha Gavels Club D4 Toastmaster club for children. Part of Doha Toastmasters Club. 5572 0680 ✔ QatarDebate Centre C2 A member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and the national debating organisation for Qatar. qatardebate.org Qatar Toastmasters Club D4 Meetings on the first and third Sunday every month at 7 pm - 9:30 pm on Zoom. 7400 6238, qatartoastmasters.net
Drama Doha Players Theatre C2 An amateur dramatic society that produces plays and musicals on weekdays between 8 am and 1 pm only. thedohaplayers.com ✔
Groups and Associations 1st Doha Scout Group, British Scouting Overseas (BSO) Delivers an active programme of indoor and outdoor activities for English-speaking children aged 6 – 18 years from all backgrounds. 1st-doha-scout-group.org ✔ American Women's Association Active women's group for all nationalities. awaqatar.com EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
British Guides in Foreign Countries (BGIFC) For girls only, aged 5 – 14 years. To register your daughter visit bgifc.org.uk, dess.org ✔ Canadians in Qatar All are welcome. Join their Facebook group for details. Croatians in Qatar For more information and details about events, visit hrvatiukataru.com 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, organise activities, meetups and gatherings. expatwoman.com/qatar French in Qatar Website in French with lots of news and events. vivreauqatar.com German Ladies Coffee Morning A time for chatting, making friends and sharing information. doha.diplo.de 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 Facebook group for details. Qatar Expat Women Helps women with the transition from their homeland to Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details.
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marhaba.qa Qatar Irish Society Organises social, sporting and cultural events throughout the year in order to promote closer relations in the Irish community in Qatar. qataririshsociety.com Qatar Professional Women's Network (QPWN) An informal networking group for any woman regardless of nationality, profession, age or educational background. qpwn.org Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions throughout the year including St Andrew's Night Ball, Burns Supper and summer ceilidhs. scotsinqatar.com
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. tlgdoha.com
Groups Seeking Volunteers 2nd Chance Rescue – Qatar A branch of Park View Pet Centre provides fostering, adoption and dog walking services. 5540 6254, see their Facebook page for details. 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
Paws Rescue Qatar A group of individuals who rescue and rehome dogs and cats. pawsrescueqatar.org Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) A non-profit 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 Red Crescent (QRCS) Qatar's first volunteering charitable organisation, QRCS works to help and empower vulnerable individuals and communities in Qatar and across the MENA region. QRCS is an active member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. qrcs.org.qa
Leisure Activities
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
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. ✔
Qatar Volunteers A volunteer group that participates in fundraising events, blood donation, beach cleanups, and disaster response. See their Facebook page for details. Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) Volunteer Club ROTA supports neighbouring countries as they overcome developmental difficulties. To volunteer, call 4454 1603, reachouttoasia.org Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) (Qatar 2022) Join over 271,000 volunteers from around the globe – and make history with SC as they prepare for the Middle East's first FIFA World Cup™. qatar2022.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 the Events and Activities section for comprehensive listings of activities and classes.
Libraries
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.
British Council Qatar D3 Information Centre has books, magazines, videos, DVDs and internet access. 800 5501, britishcouncil.qa ✔
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.
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 ✔ ©
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Leisure Activities
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. For more information, visit qnl.qa or call 4454 0100 ✔
Siwar Choir
VCUQatar Library C2 The public may join the library for a small deposit and borrow art, design, architecture and innovative media books, ebooks, research, articles, images, videos and more. qatar.vcu.edu/library ✔
Music Groups and Choirs Doha Chamber Choir A cappella choir has vacancies for all voice parts, especially tenor. Rehearses weekly from September to June. Varied repertoire. Performs for booked events only (weddings, parties, etc). 7011 8887, qatarconcertchoir.com Doha Community Music Ensembles A full size symphony orchestra and wind symphony for amateur musicians. Open to new members of all ages and nationalities. 3385 7784, dcmeqatar.com ✔ Doha Jazz A leader and provider of Jazz bands, Doha Jazz performs several genres of jazz and other styles such as blues, Arabic and classical music. 5571 0746, dohajazz.com Drumming Qatar Teaching African djembe drumming and rhythm. Open to all. Bring your own drum or use one provided. Contact Patrick Dilley on 3384 2330, drummingqatar.com ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) Multiple locations 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, 4427 1166 (Al Wukair), iaidonline.org ✔ International Centre for Music (ICMQatar) Multiple locations Offers classes in piano, keyboard, violin, guitar and music theory, as well as voice lessons. 4467 1354, 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 ✔ EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) A member of Qatar Foundation, 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 ✔ Siwar Choir Qatar's leading Arabic youth choir established by Al Jazeera Children's Channel, bringing together Arabic traditions with fresh and exciting music. jeemtv.net/en/shows/siwar ✔ The Doha Singers A choral group that presents several concerts every year. dohasingers.com
Water Parks and Play Zones 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. It is an exciting recreational activity for friends, families, students and coworkers. Suitable for ages 7 and above. 7050 0139, adventureroomsqa.com ✔ Baladna Park In addition to the Baladna Farm and restaurant located in Umm Al Hawaya, Baladna Park is an outdoor family entertainment park, which includes a 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: Free. Prices range for the outdoor amusement and theme park activities. 4424 6000, baladnapark.com ✔
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marhaba.qa Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park Features 18 attractions with 56 rides and slides at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 6 pm. Admission: QAR100 or QAR150 depending on height, children 3 and below enter for free. Tickets can be purchased from the Hotel Park. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa ✔
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: 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 hands-on activities designed for children aged 1 – 14. Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 2 pm – 8 pm, Thursday and Friday 2 pm – 9:30 pm, Saturday 11 am – 8 pm, closed on Sunday. Admission: QAR95 for children aged 2 – 3, QAR160 for children aged 4 – 16, QAR50 for adults 17 and above, and free for children below 1. 4482 6222, kidzania.qa ✔ Megapolis Entertainment Center B4 An indoor entertainment destination in Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar, offering an array of games and activities such as escape rooms, virtual reality simulators, bowling, darts, billiards, karaoke and more. Opening times: Saturday – Wednesday 2 pm – midnight, Thursday and Friday 2 pm – 1 am. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/ activity. 4437 8444/84, megapolisqatar.com ✔
Leisure Activities
Doha Quest D4 Boasting an area of 27,500 sq m, Doha Oasis features more than 30 rides and attractions, which include the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster and the world’s tallest indoor drop tower. The centre is split into three different time-dimensions: Oryxville, which is a portal of the ancient Arabian past; the City of Imagination focuses on the present day whilst Gravity will offer a gateway into a futuristic space age. Opening times: Daily 2 pm to 6 pm. Admission: Junior Ticket (4 – 12 years old): QAR125, Adult Ticket (13 years old and above): QAR200, children 4 and below enter for free. 4410 3444, dohaquest.com ✔
Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park
City Center-Doha C4 Fun City Rides, activities and video games for the whole family. Opening times: Saturday – Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am – 11:45 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game. 4483 9502, citycenterdoha.com ✔
Doha Festival City B2 Angry Birds World The world's first Angry Birds World, featuring over 20 rides and attractions for all ages. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday: 1 pm – 10 pm; Thursday and Friday: 2 pm – midnight; Saturday: 11 am – 9 pm. Admission: QAR100 individual card, QAR250 family card with minimum QAR50 top-up value. 4042 0444, angrybirdsworld.qa ✔ Snow Dunes A snow park at -4˚C all year round, themed around a fantastical Arabian town, complete with its very own Arabian-style castle. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 2 pm – midnight, Saturday 11 am – 9 pm. Admission: Silver Package QAR180, Gold Package QAR240, Platinum Package QAR420. 4035 4444, snowdunes.qa ✔ Virtuocity A digital gaming hub equipped with full motion racing simulators, escape rooms and a multipurpose eSports arena. Opening times: Thursday to Friday 3 pm – midnight, Saturday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm. 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 ✔ ©
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marhaba.qa Gulf Mall C3 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. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4031 0651, gulfmalldoha.com ✔
Leisure Activities
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
arcade games. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4476 1127, hangoutqatar.com
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 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Tokens per game/activity. 4487 6111/333, landmarkdoha.com ✔
Jump Trampolines, soft play and the best physical activity can be found here. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR60 and QAR90. 4447 9313, see their Facebook page.
Mall of Qatar C1
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, redemption games and spin art can be purchased as an extra. 4413 1122, royalplazadoha.com ✔
Kidz Mondo 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 18, QAR135 for children aged 4 – 14, QAR85 special needs, and free for children below 1. 4028 5888, kidzmondodoha.com ✔
Mirqab Mall D3 Funderdome 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: 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, PlayStation, cars and flights simulators, through to an Escape Room, VR and EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
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: Prices range from QAR80 – QAR110 per hour. 4408 6500, bounce.qa ✔
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
Checked & Updated October 2021
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 ✔
Royal Plaza D3
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ACK!
axation in
موسم التخيـيم قد عاد
!إستمتع باإلقامة في مخيم سراب بحلته العصرية بعد تجديده بالكامل THE CAMPING SEASON IS BACK! Experience camping in a haven of relaxation in the middle of sand dunes!
A camping experience like no other! Located in an easy access spot, where the sand meets the sea. Sarab camp is a traditional Arabian camping village with modern amenities, exclusive access to a private beach and fun activities for the entire family! Playground for kids, indoor tennis & mini foosball, paintball, zip line, wall climbing, bungee jumping, mini football and volleyball fields are all you need for some quality time away from the city’s buzz. Welcoming its visitors to experience the true Qatari camp life in International standards of hospitality and safety.
+974 66573448 or +974 66568939 Opposite Sealine Beach
+974 4446 5600
reservation@thetorchdoha.com ©
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FEATURE
Qatar's Cycling Tracks
Olympic Cycling Track
By Sarah Palmer and Ola Diab Qatar is becoming cycling-friendly with more and more cycling paths being laid out. Getting on your bike and cycling around Qatar has never been easier!
O
ne of the objectives of the Ministry of Sports and Youth is to create an active sport movement in the country.
asphalt concrete laid continuously. Both of these records were achieved within the Al Khor Road project and the Olympic Cycling Track.
To obtain this objective, the ministry's strategy focuses on creating an environment whereby all members of society are able to practise sports and physical activity, making available to the public the necessary facilities and working towards making exercising more attractive.
Danny Hickson, the Official Adjudicator at the Guinness World Records, confirmed the final figure for the longest piece of asphalt concrete laid continuously to be 25.275 km and the longest continuous cycle path to be 32.869 km, setting new world records for Qatar.
The ministry oversees the hosting of numerous regional and international sports events, and wants the public to enjoy both competitive and recreational sports all year round.
The 33 km Olympic Cycling Track connects Doha to Al Bayt stadium and is 7 m wide, with 29 underpasses and five bridges to enable non-stop riding, and is situated well away from the main road. It has been designed to allow speeds of up to 50 km an hour, making it a perfect destination for upcoming international competitions, and opened on 11 February 2020, National Sport Day. There are also 80 bicycle stands, 100 benches and 20 rest areas along the route for use by the cyclists.
The authorities in Qatar have been busy beautifying public spaces for everyone's enjoyment, including the ongoing construction of walking and cycle paths, in conjunction with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). There are several paths dotted around the country, for example along Lusail Street and between Doha Corniche and Hamad International Airport. Further afield, and for longer rides, try the route close to Al Sheehaniya camel race track and the Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve, approximately 30 km of cycling. Ashghal recently developed a 40 km long cycling path on the Southern part of Doha Expressway. The cycling path has one bike bridge, 2,390 street lamps, 17 bike parks, 1,930 trees, 24 tunnels, and 17 seats with shades. Not all of the paths are fully connected as yet, however they are landscaped and have street lamps for use after dark. New cycle paths continue to appear all over Qatar! There is now a 'superpath' available for cyclists to enjoy even longer rides in safety. In fact, Qatar is now the proud owner of more Guinness World Records, being home to the world’s longest continuous cycle path, and the longest piece of EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
Eng Abdulla Ahin, Designs Department Manager at Ashghal, holds the Guiness World Record for the Olympic Cycling Track.
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Al Khor Road
Abdulrahman Musallam Al Dossari, adviser to HE the Minister of Sports and Youth and President of Qatar Sports Federation for All, has highlighted the importance of implementing an infrastructure that serves sports activities, praising the safety and security of the Olympic Cycling Track in being away from traffic. Qatar Sports Federation for All will be using the track to encourage walking and cycling by holding activities and competitions in the future. The Supervisory Committee for Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar (part of Ashghal) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Qatar Cyclists Centre at the Ministry of Culture and Sports to provide services for the Olympic Cycling Track. These services include electric bike parking spaces, first aid, and the use of motorcycles to provide emergency assistance, among others. The MoU's scope also includes organising events in cooperation with Ashghal, safety campaigns, first aid training for emergencies, and awareness sessions to educate riders on safe riding methods along cycle tracks. The Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar works in coordination with ministries and other entities, such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Communications and IT, Ministry of Sports and Youth, Ministry of Culture, Qatar Museums, Qatar Rail and the Private Engineering Office. It is responsible for five major tasks: construction of central public parks; provision of dedicated tracks for pedestrians and bicycles; development of Doha Corniche; development of Central Doha; and increasing afforestation and green areas. In May 2021, Ashghal opened the shared pedestrian and cycling tracks on the eastern side of Al Khor Road, integrating with the Olympic Cycling Track on the western side of the highway, giving more opportunities for hobbyists to practice cycling and jogging, ensuring complete safety. The track is 38 km long and 6 m wide, passing through 18 underpasses, to provide a smooth and
uninterrupted movement. In order to facilitate better use of the tracks along the road, 80 cycle-parking points, 100 benches and 20 resting areas are provided. There are five car parking areas along the path – near Qatar University, Lusail metro station, Losail International Circuit, Semaisma Interchange, and Al Bayt Stadium – and 1,450 streetlamps to encourage cycling at night.' Ashghal is set to open a new bicycle and pedestrian path along the Central Market Street as part of the ongoing beautification works. The 13 km bicycle path is part of Ashghal's efforts to provide residents with space to engage in physical activties and encourage a healthy lifestyle. A total of 39 bicycle parking spaces will be provided, in addition to 33 seats for users to rest on, surrounded by a green area of more than 40,000 sq m, in addition more than 330 trees. Ashghal is creating infrastructure that contributes to enhancing a culture of sports among all segments of society through the provision of facilities, and the authority will construct a network of cycling and pedestrian paths across 2,650 km by 2022. m The Amir HH Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani cycling on National Sport Day 2018
Want to join up with likeminded cyclists? See Sports Activities in this section for listings of groups and clubs. Qatar Cycling Federation is the national governing body and has a lot of useful information about taking up the sport, as well as events and support for elite athletes. qatarcycling.org ©
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Sports in Qatar Sports Federations, Associations and Committees
Sports in Qatar
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Air Sports Athletics Basketball Billiards and Snooker Bowling Boxing and Wrestling Chess Cricket Cycling and Triathlon Equestrian Fencing and Weightlifting Football Golf Gymnastics Handball
• Karate, Judo and Taekwondo • Motor and Motorcycle • Paralympic • Rugby, Cricket and Hockey • Sailing and Marine Sport • Shooting and Archery • Sports for All • Women's Sports • Swimming • Table Tennis • Tennis, Squash and Badminton • Volleyball
Sports Facilities Qatar Olympic Committee 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 December 2016, and in January 2017 Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani was re-elected President of the QOC. Doha successfully won the bid to host the 21st Asian Games 2030 on 16 December 2020, the second time the event will be held in Qatar, and the fourth city to host the games twice. 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 • Losail International Racing Circuit • Lusail Olympic Shooting Range • Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club
Previous international sporting events include • Tour of Qatar (men's and women's cycling) • 15th Asian Games (2006) • AFC Asian Cup (2010) • 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 Annual international events • Commercial Bank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP) • Commercial Bank Qatar Masters (golf) • IAAF Diamond League (athletics) • Longines Global Champions Tour (equestrian) • Qatar Classic Squash Tournament • Qatar ExxonMobil Open (ATP tennis) • Qatar Ladies Open (WTA tennis) • Qatar Table Tennis Open Coming up • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM • 2023 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 ©
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Qatar will be making history in 2022, as the first nation in the Middle East to host a FIFA World Cup.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM
Al Janoub Stadium
It will also be the smallest, which means that fans are able to watch multiple matches on the same day. This is thanks to the excellent Doha Metro system and a slew of upgrades to the road network, facilitating quick and easy movement around the country. There will be perfect winter weather conditions and traditional Arab hospitality to greet fans as they arrive, while the use of sustainable technology and innovative architecture has already been well received in the international community, winning major design awards and achieving green building status. 2022TM
FIFA World Cup Qatar best FIFA World Cup ever!
Al Thumama Stadium
promises to be the
Stadiums Four of the stadiums have been finished – Khalifa International, Al Janoub, Education City, and Ahmad Bin Ali – while Al Bayt Stadium, Al Thumama, Ras Abu Aboud, and Lusail are well on their way to completion. The competition will begin on 21 November at Al Bayt Stadium. Four matches will be played each day during the 12-day group stage – the easy transit around the country means teams (and fans!) will have optimal rest time between matches.
Education City Stadium Checked & Updated October 2021
Each of the stadiums has a unique design, from Al Wakra's maritime history inspiring Al Janoub stadium, to the Bedouin tent for Al Bayt Stadium, and the traditional gahfiya (the woven cap worn by males) for Al Thumama Stadium. The final will take place at Lusail Stadium at the namesake city-of-the-future on Qatar National Day, 18 December. m Find out more about FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM: • Read our overview in Infrastructure in Qatar, in the Banking, Commerce and infrastructure Section. • Our in-depth look at the stadiums, the countdown to the tournament, and how this World Cup will be the most sustainable yet are all available for FREE in our Sports e-Guide at marhaba.qa ©
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Sports Events Calendar This is just a selection of sports events – to have yours listed, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation due to COVID-19. See daily updates at marhaba.qa and follow the advice of the Ministry of Public Health.
December 2021
Sports Events Calendar
Until 18
FIFA Arab Cup 2021™ Qatar will host 16 teams from across the Arab world when the competition begins on 30 November 2021. The event is a great opportunity for both competitors and spectators to experience the famous Qatari hospitality and the iconic stadiums that will host the World Cup in 2022. Prepare for the greatest celebration of Arab football in what looks set to be a hotly contested final on Qatar National Day, 18 December! marhaba.qa, qfa.qa, fifa.com
4, 10 – 11 Round 6 of Qatar International Baja 2021, Qatar National Sprint 2021, Qatar Off Road Championship for Motorcycles 2021 At Losail International Circuit. qmmf.com Ongoing
Equestrian sport: Meetings continue every Saturday until February, then Wednesdays and Thursdays. At Al Rayyan Park and Al Uqda Racing Complex (Al Khor). qrec.gov.qa
Ongoing
Qatar Football Association (QFA) The 2021–22 domestic football season continues with the QNB Stars League and teams competing in the annual Amir Cup, QFA's most prestigious competition, with the final taking place in April 2022. qfa.qa, qsl.qa
Ongoing
Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation Races A number of events take place during the cooler months, including road races in Dukhan and Al Ghuwayriyah, night criteriums and the Women on Wheels evening events at the QCF Lusail Training Center. qatarcycling.org
Ongoing
Qatar Equestrian Tours – Longines Hathab The tour takes place over 14 competitions, organised and hosted by Qatar Equestrian Federation and Al Shaqab. Hathab means canter in Arabic and 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
January 2022 16 – 20
Paris Saint-Germain Qatar Winter Tour 2022 The tour is a fabulous opportunity for supporters to meet the team! Look out for updates at marhaba.qa
20 – 22
Qatar Open Amateur Golf Championship 2022 Organised by the Qatar Golf Association, the tournament started in 1983 over a sand course in Umm Said. It has now become an international qualifying tournament for the Qatar Masters, with the winner getting an exemption into the prestigious European Tour event. At Doha Golf Club, dohagolfclub.com
20 – 26
Qatar TotalEnergies Open (WTA) A Premier level event on the WTA Tour at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. qatartennis.org
February 4–5
National Road Race Championship (Men) A road race which decides the UCI-recognised Champion of Qatar, with an expat championship featuring open and masters races. Followed by the National Road Race Championship (Women), the first ever Qatar Women's National Championships with all-female races for Qatari and expat competitors. qatarcycling.org
EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
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marhaba.qa 6 – 10
FEI Jumping, Dressage and Para Dressage The International Federation for Equestrian Sport brings to Doha one of their most prestigious, world-class competitions. At Al Shaqab. fei.org
8
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
Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Held at the Education City Golf Club, the course offers a challenge to the European Tour Professionals with a mix of 91 deep bunkers and desert rough when missing a fairway. For tickets and hospitality information, visit qatar-masters.com
22
Al Adaid Desert Challenge A UCI-accredited mountain-bike race, both a trail run and an off-road duathlon. Competitors ride or run across the salt pan and dunes of Al Adaid, one Qatar's most picturesque locations. This endurance challenge draws a number of elite athletes looking for UCI points. qatarcycling.org
Sports Events Calendar
10 – 13
March 2–5
FIG Apparatus World Cup 2022 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
4–6
2022 Grand Prix of Qatar One of the most spectacular events on the MotoGPTM calendar! The first race of the new season starts in elaborate fashion under the floodlights at Losail International Circuit. motogp.com, circuitlosail.com
7 – 13
Qatar ExxonMobil Open Part of the ATP World Tour 250 series, featuring some of the world's top male tennis players. At Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. qatartennis.org Checked & Updated October 2021
Upcoming Events 28 May 2022
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 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ One of the world's 2022 most prolific sporting events will be coming to the Middle East for the first time! Read more about the event in our free e-guide, available at marhaba.qa, or visit fifa.com and qatar2022.qa 2023
World Championships Senior Individual and Teams 2023 The International Judo Federation brings their flagship event to Doha for the first time, as part of a partnership to support the promotion and development of judo in Qatar. ijf.org m ©
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Sports Activities
Sports Activities
Marhaba updates this section every issue, but as information may change, check with the organisation concerned 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 by emailing marhaba@qatar.net.qa. Locations can be found on the map of Doha at the front of the guide. Also see: • Leisure Activities in Events & Activities section for dance classes, fishing, and motor sports clubs • Hospitality in Qatar for a complete list of hotels and their fitness facilities, and Health and Wellness for wellness, Pilates and yoga 3 An activity for children or one that children can participate in – check first for any age restrictions
Archery Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3
Aviation Qatar Flying Club Al Khor. For newcomers or for those who already hold a licence, also sightseeing tours. 4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net
Badminton Dynamic Sports Multiple locations For adults and children. 7744 3124, dynamicsportsqa.com 3 Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 3
Basketball Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3 Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 3 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations For children aged 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3
Bowling Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 8-lane bowling alley with authentic American diner. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Gondolania Bowling Center Villaggio D2 12‑lane bowling alley. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm, Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. 4403 9800, gondolania.com 3 Qatar Bowling Center D4 32-lane bowling alley. Open Sunday to Thursday 2 pm – midnight, Friday 8 am – 6 pm leagues/6 pm – midnight open to all, Saturday 10 am – midnight. 4432 9178, qatarbowlingcenter.net 3
Clay Shooting Lusail (Al Ramii) Shooting Club Near Losail International Circuit Target ranges are open Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm – 8 pm. 4495 3114, qsaa.qa
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marhaba.qa Cricket MS Dhoni Cricket Academy Asian Town Cricket Stadium F3 In partnership with the Absolute Sports Academy. 5527 1909, absolutesportsqatar.com 3 Qatar Cricket Association QOC Building, Al Dafna C4 Training, development, facilities and practice nets. 4494 4941, qatarcricketassociation.org 3 Stallions Cricket Academy Multiple locations Coaching programmes and events for adults and children. 3140 8994, stallionsqatar.com 3
Qatar Chain Reaction (QCR) Multiple locations A volunteer branch of the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation open to all road and mountain bike riders. Friday morning rides, weekday track nights at Losail International Circuit (when available), and more. qatarchainreaction.com Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation Near College of the North Atlantic‑Qatar B3 Events and development of both sports. 4447 5522, qatarcycling.org, qatartriathlon.org Qatar Cyclists The only official club in Qatar. See their Facebook page for details
Alwadi Hotel Doha, MGallery by Hotel Collection D4 Personal training and TechnoShape body slimming sessions at M|Fit gym. 4009 9999, alwadihoteldoha.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 3 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 B/Attitude Spa Doha at Beverly Hills Towers C4 Fitness classes, yoga and pilates, and spinning. 4412 2046, battitudespadoha.com 3
Sports Activities
Cycling Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Explore the island by hiring a bike or Segway. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3
Altitude Elite Marina 50, Lusail City A4 Flexible personalised training for peak performance. 5085 5825, altitude.qa
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 TRX and personal trainer on request. Call first for availability. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb D4 Fitness classes and exercise rooms. 4410 3333, banyantree.com 3 Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb
Darts Doha Darts League Shamrock Tavern, Magnum Hotel B4 The league runs from October to March. Join the Facebook group for details
Fencing Clement Fencing Academy Lycee Voltaire Al Waab D3 and Al Dafna B4 Training for ages 4 to adults, also 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 3 Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For adults and children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3
Fitness Classes and Gyms
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 and Tabata core, kids club and two swimming pools. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq 3
For dance and Zumba see Leisure Activities; for Pilates and yoga see Health and Wellness
CrossFit Oryx Doha College D3 Classes and open gym. 5080 5705, crossfitoryx.com
Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor bootcamp, personal training and jogging tracks. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Curves for Women Multiple locations Fitness in 30 minutes! 4469 9955 (Al Waab), 4421 7755 (Duhail), 4455 2477 (Nuaija), curvesme.com ©
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marhaba.qa Dana Club C4 Aquarobics, aerobics and HIIT including ladies only classes and Jump Gym for kids. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa 3
Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 TRX and Queenax studios, personal training. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha
Dynamik QA Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar B4 Mansoura D4 Fitness, yoga/pilates and martial arts, separate gyms, juice bar, spa and salon. See their Instagram page for details
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl–Qatar A4 Daily boot camp and abs classes, two fitness areas (one female/male, one female only). 4035 5152, kempinski.com/marsamalaz
Education City Golf Club C2 Use the gym to improve fitness, or consult a PGA golf professional for coaching on golf swing, and stretching and core stability exercises. ecgolf.com 3
Mondrian Doha A4 Open 24/7, complimentary Diet or Fitness DNA Test with membership. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha
Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations Daily EvoFit classes: boxercise, bootcamp, teenfit, Metafit/HIIT and more. Must be aged 16+. 7783 9559, evosportsqatar.com Evolve Multiple locations Fitness classes and swimming at several hotels and spas, personal training and nutritional advice. See the online schedule. 5040 3234, evolvemindbodysoul.com 3 Fit20 West Bay Al Bidda Street C4 One 20-minute training session per week. 5057 0350, fit20.qa First Fit Training Multiple locations Martial arts, tennis, gymnastics, football and more for adults and children aged 3+. 7044 6654, fftsports.com 3 Fitness First City‑Center Doha C4 Fitness classes and separate male/female gyms. 4411 5999, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Calisthenics and circuit training. Schedule changes monthly, call first. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha
OxFitness Lab The Gate Mall C4 The Pearl-Qatar 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 Park Hyatt Doha D4 Separate female/male gyms. 4009 1234, hyatt.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 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Mixed, ladies only and children's classes. See the online calendar for up to date schedule. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3 Sharq Village & Spa D4 Fitness, spinning, yoga, Tai chi. 4425 6185, ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Classes include Aikido, Zumba and yoga. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3
Golden Tulip Doha D4 Personal training, daily classes. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com 3 Grand Hyatt Doha B4 CrossFit, aqua gym, Tae Bo and core training. Booking essential. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com 3 Hilton Doha C4 Personal training and daily classes including body combat and aquarobics. For club members only. 4423 3333, hilton.com 3 Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Hotel guests are able to use the gym and sport centre, with a football pitch, and tennis and basketball courts, and beach volleyball. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa 3 InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Daily bodypump, bootcamp, CrossFit and Burn. See the online schedule. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com InterContinental Doha – The City B4 Bodypump, Latino Cardio and EMS (Electro Muscular Stimulation). Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel
The Diplomatic Club B4 Unisex and ladies only gyms, fitness classes and recreation facilities. 4484 7450, thediplomaticclub.com 3 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Core conditioning and toning, low impact, power walking, spinning and more. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/doha 3
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marhaba.qa The St. Regis Doha B4 Free classes and personal training for guests and members. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com 3 Strongbox Qatar Doha Sports Club B4 CrossFit, conditioning and personal training. 5050 2954, strongboxqatar.com The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 WestinWORKOUT offers circuits, stretching, abs, HIIT and personal training. 4492 1600, marriott.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 3 Ability Friendly/Inclusive Sports Qatar Foundation Multaqa C2 Sunday – Thursday, small group sessions available for anybody with a disability or special need, ages 5+. 4454 0772, abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa 3 Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations Coaching programmes for children aged 3+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3 Garvey's European Family Club Off Salwa Road E3 Grass 5‑a‑side football pitch. 5583 0475 Lusail Football Academy Doha Sports Park B4 Qatar’s first QFA-approved private football academy for children aged 3+, with league games for adults. lfa.qa 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations For children aged 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3
Frisbee Qatar Ultimate Frisbee Games Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Check first for confirmation of meetups. sites.google.com/site/qatarulti, see their Facebook page for details 3
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 3
Doha Golf Club B3 18-hole championship course, 9-hole floodlit academy course, putting and chipping greens and world-class practice facilities. Coaching available with PGA professionals from the Qatar Golf Academy. The New Golfer Membership offers everything needed to get started. Open daily 6 am – 9 pm. 4496 0715, dohagolfclub.com 3 Education City Golf Club C2 Designed by Jose Maria Olazabal, the course is open to members and guests offering 33 holes of golf: 18 hole Championship course, 6 hole Championship course and 9 hole par 3 course. There is a clubhouse and a Centre of Excellence golf development facility along with a driving range installed with Power Tee automated teeing system and TrackMan technology. Golf lessons available with PGA professionals. The 9 hole par 3 course is floodlit for night golf. Open daily 6 am – 8 pm. ecgolf.com 3
Sports Activities
W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Fully equipped FIT gym with punchbags and boxing gloves. 4453 5555, marriott.com
Golf Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Nine‑hole putting course. SNAG (Starting New At Golf) is suitable for all ages. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3
Gymnastics and Trampolining Bounce Inc Tawar Mall C3 Indoor trampoline park, plus training classes, free jumping, dodgeball and more, for adults and children aged 3+. 4408 6500, bounce.qa 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Gymnastics classes for children aged 2+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3 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 3
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, pony club, trails and events. Visit the café and shop with equestrian items. 5070 9521, alsamriyariding.com 3 ©
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marhaba.qa Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort Enjoy a leisurely horse or camel ride along the beach. 4476 5299, sealinebeachqatar.com 3
Ice Hockey and Ice-Skating Gondolania Ice Arena Villaggio D2 Olympic size rink. See online for information about public sessions. 4450 7873, gondolaniaicearena.com 3
Sports Activities
Qatar International Ice Hockey League Villaggio D2 A fun, recreational league with organised games. qhockey.com
Kids Clubs Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Kids and Teens' Clubs offering a safe environment with fun and games, movies and books. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations Training camps offering football, swimming, rugby and basketball. For ages 2+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3 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 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Gymnastics, robotics, football, basketball, Zumba, and martial arts classes. For ages 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3
Martial Arts and Boxing B/Attitude Spa Doha at Beverly Hills Towers C4 Daily Muay Thai for all levels and ages. 4412 2046, battitudespadoha.com 3 City Centre Rotana Doha C4 Kickboxing classes, booking required. 4445 8686, rotana.com 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 Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Aikido for adults and children. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Kickboxing, karate and taekwondo for adults and children. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3 Sharq Village & Spa C4 Tai chi. Call ahead for schedule. 4425 6185, ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
The Korea Taekwondo Centre Al Muthana Complex, Salwa Rd D3 Daily from 3 pm (except Friday). For adults and children aged 5+. 4465 9066, see the Facebook group for details 3
Multipurpose and Family Clubs Aspire Zone Foundation D2 Public fields open daily 8 am – 9 pm. Football fields and basketball and volleyball courts are free to use on a first come, first serve basis. Also 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 Doha College Al Waab D3 and West Bay C3 Facilities for hire include multipurpose sports halls, 3G pitches, external basketball court and swimming pools. 4407 6777, dohacollege.com 3 Garvey's European Family Club Off Salwa Road E3 Gym/fitness rooms, squash court, swimming pool, and more. 4450 5176 3
Netball Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations For ladies and girls aged 8+. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3
Rock Climbing EsQalar Sports Aspire Zone D2 Qatar's first company dedicated to rock climbing sports, for adults and children aged 4+. Thursday to Tuesday 2 pm – 10 pm. 3388 2179, esqalar.qa 3
Rugby Doha Rugby Football Centre Near American School of Doha D3 Teams for men, women and children aged 5+. doharfc.com 3
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 Athletic Club Multiple Locations Founded by Liz McColgan Nuttall, former middle- and longdistance track champion. The Adult Run Club holds indoor circuits and outdoor running sessions. The Junior Group is for ages 9 – 18, the Mini Group for ages 6 – 9. 6605 1263, dohaathleticclub.com 3 Doha Bay Running Club Multiple locations Informal group, meeting weekend mornings and weekday evenings. Open to beginners and experienced runners alike. Join the Facebook group for details
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InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Classes Sunday/Wednesday/Friday/Saturday. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Classes every Friday/Saturday/Sunday. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Daily classes. Call ahead, as booking is essential. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/doha
Swimming
Sailing Regatta Sailing Academy Katara Beach B4 Royal Yachting Association and International Award training centre. Sailing and powerboating certification courses for adults and juniors. School programmes, corporate activities and yacht charters upon request. 5550 3484, regattasailingacademy.com 3
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Scuba diving and diving courses for everyone from beginners to experts; also RAID certification and snorkelling. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Doha Sub Aqua Club (DSAC) Between Doha Marriott and Sharq Village & Spa hotels 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 Pearl Divers–Qatar Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street D3 PADI training, tuition, equipment rental and tank filling. 4444 9553, pearl-divers.com Poseidon Dive Center Hilton Doha C4 A full range of recreational PADI courses, professional and technical dive training, and Rebreather courses and programmes. 6608 4040, pdcqatar.com 3 Qatar Marine Go Sport, City Center‑Doha B3 Courses, diving excursions and specialist services. 5531 9507, qatarmarine.net
Spinning Fitness First City Center‑Doha C4 Separate daily classes for men and women. 4411 5106, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com
Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Classes for men, women and children. Registration form and schedule are available online. 4413 6219, aspireactiveqa.com 3
Sports Activities
TriClub Doha Multiple Locations Training, events and socialising for local triathletes of all levels and ages. The season begins each September. triclubdoha.com 3
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
Ability Friendly/Inclusive Sports 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 need ages 4+. 4454 0772, abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa 3 Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 100m long pool, water slides, and a surf pool with lessons available from professional instructors. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Dana Club C4 SwimSafe academy for adults and children. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa 3 Evolution Sports Qatar Multiple locations Extensive coaching programmes for children. 4407 6772, evosportsqatar.com 3 Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Grotto pools and family-friendly pools with water slides, for spa members. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha 3 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@gmail.com, tryfreestyle@aspirelogistics.qa, facebook.com/freestyleaquatics2012 3 Grand Hyatt Doha B4 Three outdoor pools, two children's pools, one indoor pool for adults. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com 3 H2O Swim Club Multiple locations Competitive and leisure programmes, for adults and children aged 8 months+. 5564 1475, h2oswimclub.com 3 ©
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marhaba.qa InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Adults’ and children’s individual and group swimming lessons. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com 3 Mondrian Doha A4 On the 26th floor, the pool shares the space with the gym. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha 3
Sports Activities
Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha C4 Classes in a chlorine free indoor pool; booking required. 4496 6410, movenpick.com/west-bay-doha 3 Oryx Rotana Hotel D4 Courses and lessons for children of all levels and abilities. 4402 3485, rotana.com/oryxrotana 3 Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Aquacise Sunday and Thursday at 8:30 am. Private swimming lessons available. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 3 Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Lessons for children. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3 The Diplomatic Club B4 Classes for adults and children. 4484 7450, thediplomaticclub.com 3 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Indoor Junior Olympic pool, outdoor freeform pool. Classes for all ages. Call first for availability of instructors. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast 3 The St. Regis Doha B4 Olympic-sized pool and children's pool for use by guests and members only. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com 3 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 3
Tennis and Squash Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor tennis court. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex C4 Courts available for hire by the hour; advance booking required. The tennis school offers training for children aged 5 – 15 years; players aged 15+ can join private groups. 4440 9666, qatartennis.org 3 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 3 Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort Floodlit tennis court. 4476 5299, sealinebeachqatar.com 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Tennis classes for adults and children aged 2+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3 Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Indoor tennis and squash courts, outdoor padel tennis courts and table tennis. Private and group lessons for adults. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Tennis and squash courts, lessons available. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com/middleeast 3 The St. Regis Doha B4 Lessons and court hire for adults and children aged 12+. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com 3 The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 Two squash courts for hire. 4492 1600, marriott.com 3
Volleyball Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Beach volleyball. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 3 Golden Tulip Doha
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Synthetic grass court, lessons available. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3 Dana Club C4 Two indoor tennis courts, individual coaching. Members only. 4496 0656, danaclub.com.qa 3 First Fit Training Multiple locations For adults and children age 4+ of all abilities. 3300 0779, fftsports.com 3 InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Tennis and squash lessons for adults and children, also tennis socials every Sunday and Friday 6 pm. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com 3 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
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marhaba.qa Water Sports For fishing see Leisure Activities Angry Dragons Qatar Katara Beach B4 The Pearl‑Qatar B4 New and seasoned paddlers always welcome. See their Facebook page for details AquaSports Qatar Multiple locations Kayaking in Al Thakira mangroves and other locations, stand up paddle boarding and kiteboarding. Events and private parties. aquasportsq.com 3
Discover Arabia Adventure tours at Al Thakira nature reserve, educational programmes for schools, mangrove planting and environmental clean-ups. Also kayaking, snorkelling and overnight camps. 3023 3207, discoverarabia.today 3 Discover Qatar The destination management division of Qatar Airways and partner of Qatar National Tourism Council 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 3 Grand Hyatt Doha B4 Banana boat rides, jet skis, kayaking, pedal boats and stand up paddle boarding. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com
Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl–Qatar A4 Knee boarding, kayaking, pedal boat and paddle boarding. 4035 5152, kempinski.com/doha 3 Qatar Dragon Boat The Pearl–Qatar A4 Dragon boat team building, festivals and youth programmes. New members of all levels are welcome. 5505 2204, qatardragonboat.com 3 Q-Explorer Multiple locations Mangrove kayaking, jet ski tours of Doha's Corniche, scuba diving and more. Events for schools and corporates, also private parties. 4472 5146, q-explorer.com 3 Regatta Sailing Academy Katara Beach B4 A Royal Yachting Association training centre offering numerous activities, available for corporate events and parties. 5550 3484, regattasailingacademy.com 3 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 3 Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Banana/donut rides, wakeboard, water skiing, kayaks, jet skis, stand up paddle, water bikes, cruises and fishing. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3 The St. Regis Doha B4 Jet skis and waterskiing. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com 3 m
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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 daily 10 am – 6 pm. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa
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; swimming is not permitted after sunset. Entrance fees: QAR10 for adults; free for under 18 years of age. Please observe the dress code when visiting. 5544 9862, katara.net 3
Sports Activities
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Stand up paddle boarding, banana/donut rides, surf pool, water bicycles, kayaking, and the HamacLand Floating Lounge. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com 3
InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Jetskis, tubes, wakeboarding, kitesurfing and stand up paddle boarding. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com 3
Canyons at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort ©
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Health and Wellness Marhaba updates this section every issue, but as information may change after going to press, check with the organisation concerned 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@qatar.net.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 the Events & Activities section • Places to Stay in the Hospitality in Qatar section for a complete list of hotels and fitness facilities 3 An activity for children or one that children can participate in – check first for any age restrictions
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 and Pilates available. 4445 0000, marriott.com
Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Vinyasa yoga. Call first for monthly schedule. 4494 8888, fourseasons.com/doha InterContinental Doha The City C4 Swasthi and body balance. Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity
Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Holistic advice, alternative therapies and life coaching. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Power yoga sessions and monthly full moon. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/hotel‑doha
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
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Daily classes including Hatha, power, Vinyasa, yin and detox. See the online monthly schedule. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com
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
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Booking essential. 4484 8183, ritzcarlton.com/doha
Pilates Encore Pilates The Gate Mall C4 The Pearl-Qatar B4 Qatar's first dedicated studio for Reformer pilates. 4020 6430, oxfitnesslab.com Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Call first for monthly schedule. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A4 Booking essential. 4484 8183, ritzcarlton.com/doha The St. Regis Doha B4 Gender-specific Yoga, Pilates, and Power Plate classes for members and guests. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com
W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Yoga/pilates – call first for availability. 4453 5555, marriott.com Yama Yoga Studios Asas Twin Towers, Al Dafna C4 Daily classes for all levels: Mixed levels; Ashtanga, Iyengar and Vinyasa; prenatal; kids and teens; aerial and rocket yoga; back care; yin; restorative. See the online monthly schedule. Also teacher training and retreats at their two centres in Koh Phangan, Thailand and Veliko Tarnovoa, Bulgaria. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com 3 m
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 Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Hatha and Vinyasa. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
Checked & Updated October 2021
InterContinental Doha The City B4 Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa C4 Saturday 9 am with breakfast and access to the gym included. 4492 1600, marriott.com
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
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marhaba
Stadium Update A Spotlight on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM
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With the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM tournament taking place in November 2022, work is fast continuing on bringing fans the ultimate experience at Qatar’s football facilities. Most of the stadiums have already been renovated or completed, allowing sports fans a sneak look at what they can expect from matches. Much of the work on the amenities available at the complexes is also ongoing. Not only that, but more than 1,000 electric buses will be available to transport fans! Inside this guide you can find details about how Qatar is building state-of-the-art stadiums using the very latest construction materials and employing green building practices. This all means that Qatar will deliver the first – and best – sustainable World Cup competition yet!
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium
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l Rayyan is the location for Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, and is the home of local football team, Al Rayyan Sports Club.
The stadium officially opened on 18 December 2020, hosting the final of the Amir Cup, becoming the fourth operational FIFA World Cup 2022™ venue. The new arena will host 40,000 fans at matches. The residents of Al Rayyan are a close-knit community, offering a warm welcome to all that visit – fans coming to the stadium for matches will also receive the famous Qatari hospitality when they arrive. Its location in Al Rayyan is at the very edge of the desert, and the stadium incorporates features of Qatari culture in its magnificent façade. One of the most striking aspects of the stadium, the glowing façade consists of patterns that characterise different aspects of the country: the importance of family, the beauty of the desert, the native flora and fauna, and local and international trade.
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These patterns are a characteristic of Islamic architecture and highlight Qatar’s long and successful history of producing stunning handmade goods and keepsakes. Another shape, a shield, unites all the others, a show of the strength and unity relevant to the desert city of Al Rayyan. The façade surrounds a compact seating structure, offering a sense of feeling much closer to all of the action on the pitch. A lightweight canopy and advanced cooling systems protect fans from the elements, providing maximum comfort. These desert and traditional design elements continue through on to the surrounding buildings, with dune-shaped hospitality areas and retail outlets selling merchandise. Thanks to its lighting system, the entire area promises to be a spectacular site in the evening and nighttime as the buildings softly glow. In keeping with Al Rayyan’s history of not wasting resources and preserving the environment, the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium complex has incorporated more than 80% of the construction materials from the former venue on the site (with the same name) – in fact, any trees that needed to be moved have been replanted! The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy has been mindful of using environmentally friendly building
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STADIUM UPDATE materials and practices where possible, and any new materials have been chosed for these environmental qualities. The stadium received a four-star the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification in October 2018, proving SC’s commitment to sustainability and green building.
20,000 with the other 20,000 donated to football development projects overseas. The complex promises to be a lasting legacy for everyone, offering six football training pitches, a cricket pitch, aquatics centre, tennis courts, skate park, horse riding track, cycling track, gym equipment and an athletics track.
The stadium’s carbon footprint has been reduced thanks to energy and water efficiency measures, and its close connection to the metro. Fans can enjoy a stressfree journey to Al Rayyan; once at the stadium they can enjoy the 125,000 sq m of new green space with native plants, and dedicated walking and cycling paths.
The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 21 November at 4 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
Post-tournament, the seating capacity reduced to
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Al Bayt Stadium
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l Bayt Stadium is located in Al Khor, 35 km north of Doha. It is instantly recognisable, thanks to its design based on a Bedouin tent – bayt al sha’ar or ‘house of hair’. The tent structure covers the entire stadium, and honours Qatar’s past and present while also looking to the future. Al Khor was famous for its pearl diving and fishing, attracting traders and nomadic peoples from far and wide. Likewise, Al Bayt Stadium will extend the famous Qatari hospitality to fans from all over the world. The tents used by the nomadic families could typically be identified from the black stripes, replicated on the stadium’s exterior, with sadu weaving greeting fans once inside. This taste of tradition is also practical, as the tent structure provides shading. The structure’s lightweight canopies are able to stretch out towards the pitch from every side and are joined by a retractable roof
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system and cooling technologies. These features allow for comfortable temperatures inside without using extra power – one important aspect of the stadium’s design is sustainability and low energy usage. Al Bayt Stadium has received a Class A* rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). Outside the stadium, parks and greenery form an integral part of the surrounding precinct’s design plan, with grass and trees having been planted, alongside lakes and water features. Residents and visitors to Al Khor can enjoy plenty of outdoor space, equal to the size of 30 football pitches, to walk, run and cycle. An upgraded road system means shorter journey times and a smaller environmental impact, although there will be extensive taxi and bus facilities to minimise the number of vehicles on local roads. Fans can approach the stadium on tree-lined walkways before entering the traditional-meets-modern piece of architecture. In legacy mode, the venue will reach even more people – like a nomad’s tent, it will be portable. The upper tier of modular design seating, almost half of the 60,000 capacity, will be removed and donated to developing nations in need of sporting infrastructure.
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STADIUM UPDATE The upper area of the stadium will be converted into a five-star hotel, and a shopping centre, food court, gym and multipurpose hall will be incorporated into the venue. A branch of Aspetar, Qatar’s premier sports medicine facility, will also open. The stadium opened in February 2020 and was inaugurated on 30 November 2021 for the opening match of the FIFA Arab Cup™, and is also the host for the final on 18 December. Al Bayt Stadiium will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and fixtures through to the semi-finals. The first match will be for the group stage on 21 November at 1 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Al Janoub Stadium
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l Janoub Stadium in Al Wakra was designed by the late architect Dame Zaha Hadid, with a bold, futuristic shape.
The 40,000-capacity stadium was inaugurated on 16 May 2019 for the final of the Amir Cup, with a stunning pre-match show paying tribute to Zaha Hadid and the heritage of Al Wakra. The town was formerly a centre for pearl diving and fishing. The design of the stadium reflects this long heritage of seafaring, and is influenced by the traditional boats known as dhows that were used. It is visually stunning and instantly recognisable as you approach the stadium. Inside, bowed beams hold up the roof, reminiscent of a ship’s hull, and which allows light to flood in. A detailed micro-climate analysis was undertaken to check the heat levels inside; from this study, aerodynamics were used to determine the best shape for the arena, with the roof having additional shading using a minimal amount of glass. Alongside
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an innovative cooling system, these features make significant contributions to temperature control. These concepts were designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and AECOM, in conjunction with KEO International Consultants and a consortium of local and international contractors. In November 2018, the stadium received a Class A* sustainability rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), in recognition of the project’s extensive efforts to protect the environment. The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy and its stakeholders have also thought about the environmental impact of fans travelling to Al Janoub Stadium for FIFA World Cup 2022™ matches. There have been major upgrades to the road networks, reducing journey times and emissions. The Doha Metro station serving the stadium will mean that many fans will be able to commute to and from the stadium with ease. Part of the stadium’s legacy includes green spaces being developed around the complex, which fans will see as they approach the stadium. The impressive parkland has more than 800 new trees and low-waterconsumption vegetation, with areas for horse riding, running tracks and cycle lanes.
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STADIUM UPDATE After the World Cup, Al Janoub Stadium will serve as a new home for sport and entertainment in southern Qatar. The seating capacity will be reduced to 20,000 thanks to its modular design; the other 20,000 seats will be donated to football development projects overseas. Also serving the local community, a multipurpose indoor arena, school, mosque, wedding hall and market are being constructed, to join the improvements made to the roads, port and beach areas. The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 22 November at 1 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Al Thumama Stadium
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ocated in the southern suburbs of Doha, Al Thumama Stadium is named after a native tree that grows in the region and has an intricate design depicting the gahfiya, the traditional woven cap worn by men and boys in the Middle East. The gahfiya is an integral part of the traditional clothing worn in the region – a symbol of dignity and independence, and worn by boys through to adulthood. While it may differ between countries, it is an item that unites the Arab nations. While the stadium’s design is reflective of Qatar’s history and culture, it is also a representation of the country’s youth and its move into the future without forgetting the past – becoming a major force in the world’s sports scene and the heritage that has shaped its path to success. Qatari architectural and engineering firm Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB) created the concept and
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schematic design of Al Thumama Stadium, led by chief architect, Ibrahim M Jaidah. He is one of the region’s most renowned architects – previous work includes the mighty Ministry of Interior headquarters in Doha – and is the first Qatari architect to design a FIFA World Cup™ venue. The venue’s distinctive design has been lauded internationally, and won the prestigious MIPIM/The Architectural Review Future Project Award in May 2018. Al Thumama Stadium is also the location for a revolutionary prototype stadium called the Showcase, used to demonstrate to FIFA how Qatar is committed to innovation and sustainability, both in the tournament and in legacy mode. The Showcase will remain in place until 2022, showing the revolutionary and sustainable technologies that are being employed, for example using solar energy to power the cooling systems. The ultimate aim is to achieve Global Sustainability Assessment System Trust (GSAS) 4-star certification for both design and construction. As such, the design saves up to 40% more water than a conventional stadium. Recycled water is used for the 50,000 sq m of park area, with native vegetation and 400 trees across 84% of the green areas.
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STADIUM UPDATE The stadium was inaugurated on 22 October 2021 for the Amir Cup final. In legacy mode, the stadium’s seating capacity will be reduced from 40,000 to 20,000 to meet local needs, with the remaining infrastructure donated to those countries in need. FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence Aspetar will have a clinic at the stadium, for residents and professional athletes. The surrounding precinct will provide facilities for handball, volleyball, basketball and swimming, alongside running and cycling tracks. A boutique hotel inside the stadium, a mosque, and retail and commercial units will complete the services offered to the community.
The first time fans will see the stadium is from the adjacent Hamad International Airport, as they will be able to admire the circular design and outstanding roof from the skies. The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 21 November at 10 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Education City Stadium
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he official completion of Education City Stadium on 15 June 2020 was commemorated during a special digital launch which paid tribute to frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The stadium sits in the heart of the country’s dedicated area for some of the world’s leading universities, the home of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, and is adjacent to Education City Golf Club. The 40,000-capacity stadium, designed by FIA Fenwick Iribarren Architects, has been dubbed ‘Qatar’s Diamond in the Desert’. The design draws its inspiration from Islamic architecture, with a façade that features triangles forming complex, diamondesque geometrical patterns which seemingly change colour as the sun moves across the sky. At night, the façade puts on a colourful light show, an eye-catching spectacle. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES E-GUIDE ©
The sides of the stadium envelop the pitch, helping the advanced cooling system to operate. An integrated water and energy control and monitoring system manages real-time consumption, and the environmentally-cpnscious design and construction help reduce the stadium’s carbon footprint. In January 2019, the stadium received a 5-star design and build rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy employed a number of green construction practices. More than 55% of the materials used for the stadium came from sustainable sources and 28% of construction materials have recycled contents. The surrounding precinct incorporates droughttolerant and native species of plants in 75% of the landscaping. Fans travelling to Education City Stadium for FIFA World Cup 2022™ matches will be able to use the Doha Metro station and connecting trams, or take advantage of the cycle paths and bike racks throughout Education City. After the World Cup, Education City Stadium will donate 20,000 seats to create sporting venues in developing countries.
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In legacy mode, the venue will suit the needs of students, faculty and other members of the Education City community by becoming a sports, leisure and social hub. The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 22 November at 4 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). It will host matches through to the quarter-finals stage of the tournament. For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Khalifa International Stadium
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uilt in 1976, Khalifa International Stadium was renovated before reopening in May 2017 for the final of the Amir Cup.
Named after the former Amir, HH Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani (grandfather of the current Amir, HH Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani), the stadium has a good pedigree when it comes to hosting sports events – to date, it has hosted matches in the Gulf Cup, the AFC Asian Cup and five matches of the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup, including the Final between Liverpool and Flamengo, and a number of football friendlies. It has also hosted the Asian Games in 2006 and the IAAF World Athletics Championships in 2019. Khalifa International Stadium has been a fixture of the country’s sports events for many years, and now stands proudly within Aspire Zone near Al Rayyan, a global centre of sporting excellence, having benefitted from a number of redevelopments over the years, the last of which was in 2017.
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To better fit in with the modern architecture of Aspire Zone, and to complement its vision of hosting sports teams in state-of-the-art facilities, the 45,416-seat Khalifa International Stadium underwent a number of changes in 2017. The arena now has an ultramodern shape, albeit keeping its instantly recognisable dual arches. Inside the stadium, seats are protected from the elements by a canopy, thanks to the installation of a larger roof over the entire spectator area – an intricate net of German and Italian-made steel tension cables weighing 4,000 tonnes hold 92 panels in place. Meanwhile LED pitch lighting and digital floodlights add a new dimension to the fan experience, Khalifa International Stadium being the first FIFA World Cup™ venue and the first stadium in the region to use these more sustainable forms of lighting. There is also climate control provided by advanced cooling technologies, promised as part of Qatar’s successful bid, which keeps the pitch at 20°C and the stands at 23°C, using 40% less energy than traditional cooling methods. Even the pitch is new! It has been designed with Qatar’s climate in mind, and was developed at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) Turf Nursery, the only one of its kind in Asia. It was laid in a new world record time of just 13 ½ hours.
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STADIUM UPDATE The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum is attached to the stadium via a walkway, giving an insight into the country’s sporting legacy which has featured this iconic stadium for many years. Located at the centre of all the 2022 venues, the stadium will play a pivotal role in this tournament. The first match at the stadium, the third match of the tournament, will be for the group stage on 21 November at 7 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Lusail Stadium
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he stadium in Lusail City will be the venue for the final match of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, closing the tournament in opulent style.
Qatar’s city of the future, Lusail City, a few kilometres north of Doha’s business district in Al Dafna, as well as West Bay and The Pearl-Qatar. However, there is easy access for fans travelling to the stadium from anywhere in the country, offered by the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram. The location of the stadium also offers excellent commuter links via the upgraded road network, shuttle buses from the nearby park and ride system – even on foot or bike using the new walking and cycle paths! Lusail City has been designed to reduce the impact of residents and visitors on the environment. Each neighbourhood has its own amenities within walking distance, and schools and shopping centres will be sited near green transport links, encouraging people to use public transport. Smart energy meters will be used throughout the city to conserve energy, organic waste will be collected for biomass fuel, and the numerous green spaces will improve the air quality.
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The stadium’s design has been inspired by light and shadow, characteristics of the fanar, meaning lantern. The shape and façade replicate the intricate decorative motifs on bowls and other art pieces that have been used across the Middle East for centuries. Architects Foster + Partners have created a sleek, modern and bold shape for the arena, with an impressive sloping roof. The 80,000-seat stadium will present a meaningful impact when first seen by fans, due to the scale of the venue and its adornments. The chic, muted gold exterior will over time offer an evocative image of aged metal handicrafts, while the intricate detailing on the stadium bowl will feature a graceful, undulating trim. This will be literally topped off with a roof that showcases the best engineering and construction techniques, using materials to provide shade yet still admitting the right amount of sunlight to nourish the playing surface. When the daylight fades, an advanced lighting system will switch on with light pouring through the openings in the façade, similar to a lantern, offering a welcoming glow for fans. Once inside the stadium, a wall of colour will be joined by a wall of sound – the roof and curved sides will form a cauldron effect, with noise reverberating around the arena.
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STADIUM UPDATE During construction, sustainable building practices will be employed and and construction waste recycled whenever possible. Recycled water will irrigate the abundance of local plants surrounding the stadium. Efficient water fixtures and leak detection systems throughout the stadium complex will conserve 40% more fresh water than in conventional stadiums. These measures will steer Lusail Stadium towards achieving 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) certification. The concrete works, steel superstructure installation and the roof big lift have been completed. The roof membrane is under fabrication and will be installed after the secondary steel bracings are finished. Also nearing completion are the stadium entrances, interior finishes, concourses, skyboxes and lounges, the mechanical, engineering, plumbing and finishing
works, the stadium substations, chilled water transfer stations and cooling systems. Current plans for Lusail Stadium after the tournament suggest it will transform into a community space with schools, shops, sporting facilities and health clinics within the original exterior of the stadium and under the original roof. Most of the stadium’s 80,000 seats will be removed and donated to projects elsewhere. The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 22 November at 10 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). The venue will host the final on 18 December, Qatar National Day, at 6 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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marhaba FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ 21 November – 18 December
Stadium 974
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ormerly the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, Stadium 974 was officially unveiled 30 November 2021 on the opening day of the FIFA Arab Cup™. It may be one of the most innovative and radical to be built for a FIFA World Cup™ tournament – or any sporting event! Situated looking across Doha’s Al Dafna/West Bay skyline and the Arabian Gulf, Stadium 974 promises to be a spectacular venue for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ matches. The 40,000-seat venue has been built in such a way that it can be completely dismantled and reused for other sporting projects after the competition. It is truly setting a new standard in sustainability, as well as rethinking how to reuse stadiums in legacy mode. In fact, it could well set a new trend on how to quickly construct and dismantle stadiums in the future! Due to the temporary nature of the stadium and the clever modular design in place, fewer building materials have been used than in traditional stadium
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building, which has the added advantage of reduced construction costs. The design is the brainchild of FIA Fenwick Iribarren Architects. It has been constructed using 974 shipping containers and represents Qatar’s international dialling code, with removable seats and other modular building blocks – a unique and colourful design in keeping with the nearby port. The name also reflects the stadium’s location as the gateway to Qatar, being close to Hamad International Airport, Doha Airport and Hamad Port. The majority of the stadium’s major requirements – for example, seating, bathroom facilities and food stalls – operate within the shipping containers. These are arranged in an elegant curved square which give the venue its iconic aesthetic. Thanks to its innovative design, the Stadium 974 bowl does not need air conditioning as it is naturally ventilated due to its dockside location and natural sea breezes. The dismantling of the stadium is a first for a FIFA World Cup™ venue. Just about everything will be repurposed – the 40,000 seats, the containers and the roof – and donated to projects elsewhere. This could mean the entire stadium may be built in another location, or the elements split up and used on a number of sporting and non-sporting venues.
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STADIUM UPDATE Once the stadium has been removed, a waterfront development will stand on the site instead to include a large public park with retail space. Fans travelling to Ras Abu Aboud Stadium can get there quickly and easily using the Doha Metro Gold Line. The first match at the stadium will be for the
group stage on 22 November at 7 pm (Doha time, +3 GMT). For more information about the tournament, the match schedule and further stadium updates, visit the SC website at qatar2022.qa and follow our posts at marhaba.qa and on social media.
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20210392 Msheireb Galleria Launch Magazine 1.pdf
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