Academyati

Paint The Town Qatar

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. ✔ 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) D4 Offers progressive courses from beginner to advanced covering colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, visual art perception and portraits. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔ International Artists of Doha (IAD) Group for professional artists living in Qatar who get together and exhibit on a regular basis. 6699 0122, see their Facebook page for more details. Katara Art Center (KAC) at Building 5 at Katara B4 Courses and workshops in photography, printmaking, design, drawing, painting, ceramics and more. 4408 0244, dohakac.com ✔ Katara Art Lab at Building 18 at Katara B4 Visual arts education hub, offering art programmes, training and workshops for different ages. info@kataraartlab.com ✔ Paint The Town Qatar Multiple locations A division of Trinity Talent Qatar. A leisurely event, where participants are taught how to paint. Each session consists of a different painting taught by an artist. 7759 1219, paintqatar.com Qatar Art Center (QAC) C3 Art residency and art hub, founded in 1993 by HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. 4487 7488, qatar-art-center.business.site Qatar Fine Arts Association at Building 13 at Katara B4 Aims to raise the level of scientific and technical artists, and maintain their production. 4408 1469, see their Facebook page for more details. ✔ VCUarts Qatar Community Education C2 Courses in jewellery design, fashion design, dressmaking, drawing, Photoshop, Illustrator, watercolours and more. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu.edu Visual Art Center at Katara B4 Acts under the umbrella of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, offers services in all aspects of visual art. It covers basic drawing techniques, painting, printmaking, graphic design and illustration, photography, ceramics, basic design and computer graphics. 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 this 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). 3319 4445, 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 ✔ 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 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. 6674 1577, 4409 5279, ronauticame.com

Cinemas

Asian Town Cinema F3 Offers four cinemas with 500 seating capacity each. 4499 9013 Cineco 3, Al Khor Mall A 3-screen cineplex. 4029 6503/4453 3445 Cineco, Gulf Mall C3 A 13-screen multiplex. 4031 0600 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

Qatar Reads

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

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 private Facebook group for more details. Doha Writers' Workshop A community of teachers, students, and professionals interested in writing, reading, and the art of sharing experiences through words. Join their private Facebook group for more details. Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) C3 Raising environmental awareness and conservation. 4487 4125/7301, fec.qa (Arabic) ✔ Friends of Nature (FON) in Ezdan Mall C3 A non-profit organisation, which organises environmental awareness programmes and activities. 7002 0543 (Arabic) ✔ HOG Qatar Chapter D3 (Harley Owners Group®) Aims to increase the level of enthusiasm toward Harley Davidson motorcycles. 4463 2429/28, harley-davidsondoha.com Qatar 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 private Facebook group for details.

Qatar Flying Club A private flying company in Al Khor Airport, offering pilot training, gyro-copter training and weight shift, discovery flights from above, and private pilot’s licence. 4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) The federation organises motor and motorcycling rallies, and accepts volunteers interested in marshalling at the rallies. 4437 9885, qmmf.com Qatar Natural History Group (QNHG) Share a broad range of interests including archaeology, geology, botany, marine life, conservation and the natural world. qnhg.org ✔ Qatar Poetry Center (Diwan Al Arab) Operating under the Ministry of Culture, the centre works to promote literary mobility regarding poetry, taking into account the literary heritage of the Qatari society and its cultural depth as well as be the right platform for Qatari poets to develop and succeed. 4405 5736/38, diwanalarab.qa Qatar Quilt Guild A guild of ladies meet for sewing and technique workshops and contests. See their Facebook page for details. Qatar Reads C2 Previously known as the National Reading Campaign (NRC), Qatar Reads is a programme by Qatar Foundation (QF) that aims to communicate the importance of reading and create interest in reading among all residents. Qatar Reads hosts a variety of outreach initiatives. To attend or volunteer, visit qatarreads.qa ✔ 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) ✔ SustainableQatar An independent, volunteer-based organisation addressing environmental issues relevant to Qatar. sustainableqatar.com The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Qatar Officially recognised by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. Join events, activities and outings. qatarelvisfans.qa 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 Jasrah Cultural and Social Club D4 A government club at Souq Waqif established by the Ministry of Sports and Youth in 1960. It's one

Qatar Scientific Club

Brava Studio

of the oldest literary clubs in the Arab world. The club hosts many writers and intellectuals from the Arab world and offers many free training courses in various creative areas such as writing, theater and music. 4427 3124, 3318 1359, moc.gov.qa Al Khor Community A housing complex, offering excellent facilities to employees of Qatargas and Al Khor International School (AKIS) with three clubs, including Al Dhakira Club, Al Nakheel Club, and Al Waha Club. 4473 4555, akcommunity.org Al Khor Cultural Center A cultural and social centre of the Ministry of Sports and Youth established in 1981 for men with specialised cultural activities, recreational and scientific programmes. It was expanded in 2006 to include a ladies section with social and cultural programmes. 4472 2015 (men's section), 4472 0362 (women's section) Al Khor Girls Center Established by the Ministry of Ministry of Sports and Youth in 2012 as a youth centre to empower women and young girls and highlight their abilities in commitment to Islamic customs and values by organising various activities and initiatives. 4472 0600, 7747 0887, kgc.org.qa Deema Community Center A fun, interactive environment where families gather to develop new skills while fostering a love of learning. 5593 1053, see their Facebook page for details. ✔ Dukhan Recreation Club (DRC) One of the oldest clubs managed by QatarEnergy and open to its staff only with several fitness and entertainment facilities. 4014 1879 Dukhan Water Sports Club A sailing club for QatarEnergy employees only 4014 1894 Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) D3 Formally inaugurated in 1992, the centre is a meeting of prominent Indian community members. 4468 6607, iccqatar.com Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) Clubs Al Banush Club 4409 1777 (for employees only) See Sports Activities in this section for a comprehensive list of sports clubs.

Culinary

Leaders Cooking Academy D4 A cooking and barista academy and cafe as well as hospitality and food consultancy. 3330 6677, see their Instagram page. Qatar Culinary Professionals (QCP) D3 An association representing professional chefs in the food service industry in Qatar. 4418 0654, qatarcp.org The Cooking Academy C3 A local culinary start-up providing cooking classes for professionals and food lovers. 4039 0497, cookingacademy.qa

Cultural and Language Courses

See Education Courses, Tutoring and Lectures and Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses in the Education section.

Dance

B/Attitude Spa at Beverly Hills Tower B4 Offers zumba, salsa, latino fitness and more. 4412 2046, battitudespadoha.com ✔ Bailamos Salsa Multiple locations Teaches salsa, bachata, tango, hip hop and more at all levels. 7040 4143, bailamos-salsa-doha.business.site Brava Studio at 22 La Croisette, The Pearl-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 ✔ Fitness First at City Centre-Doha C4 Offers a wide variety of dance including Irish, Bollywood, Modern and more. 4411 5999, qatar.fitnessfirstme.com IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 Classical and contemporary dances of India, jazz, classical ballet; contemporary, dance and hip hop for teens and kids. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔ InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Offers 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 ✔ 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 Skills Development Centre (SDC) D3 A centre for fine arts and performing arts, and is one of the leading institutes in Qatar offering Indian classical dance, modern dance, classical music, fine arts, karate, yoga and personality development. 4441 3955, sdcqatar.org Swasthi Academy D3 Provides training in classical and contemporary dance forms, classical and instrumental music genres, martial arts as well as wellness programmes. 5077 0025, swasthiacademy.com The Ritz-Carlton, Doha B4 Offers jazz, zumba and hip hop classes. 4484 8000, ritzcarlton.com ✔ Yama Yoga Studios at Asas Twin Towers, Al Dafna C4 Offers ballet, broadway jazz, pop and hip hop dance classes. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com ✔

Debating and Public Speaking

Al-Banush Club Toastmasters Online meetings on the first and third Tuesday every month at 6:30 pm. 3354 6316, toastmasters.org Al Khor Toastmasters Club Meetings on the second and fourth Monday every month at 7 pm on Zoom. 5563 8213, 6678 2272, toastmasters.org Birla Gavel Club 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 Center 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, toastmasters.org

Drama

Doha Film Institute (DFI) B4 Offers youth programmes, workshops and labs in acting and other aspects of filmmaking. dohafilminstitute.com Doha Players Theatre C2 An amateur dramatic society that produces plays and musicals on weekdays between 8 am and 1 pm only. thedohaplayers.com ✔ Film and Theater Academy Multiple locations Acting classes, workshops and courses for adults and children. actingclassesdoha@gmail.com, 7751 9168 ✔ Mockingbird Academy C2 Delivers a high-quality performing arts programme and classes with several fundamental abilities, including self-esteem, confidence, creative thinking, acting skills, public speaking skills, as well as leadership and teamwork skills. 4407 6851, mockingbirdacademy.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, providing a variety of ongoing activities and events. awaqatar.com 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 Bringing Canadians of Qatar together through social events by holding monthly social events. Join their private group on Facebook. Doha Mums Group of over 1,000 mums from 90 countries, offering more than 80 events a month, including New Arrivals Coffees; playgroups and holiday parties; support groups; children with special needs; children's library. dohamums.com ✔ Dutch Speaking Association of Qatar (DSA) Welcomes those who speak Dutch. dsaqatar.org ExpatWoman Qatar Join the forum and get to know other expatriate women; organises activities, meetups and gatherings. expatwoman.com/qatar How Women Work (HWW) A community group empowering women to succeed through workshops, conferences, and professional events. hwwglobal.com Indian Women's Association, Qatar (IWA Qatar) Exchange expertise in various cultural social fields. iwaqatar.com

QPWN

Lebanese Community in Qatar (LCIQ) A community group for Lebanese in Qatar with more than 4,000 members to get to know each other, and organise events. Join their private group on Facebook. Qatar Expat Women Helps women with the transition from their homeland to Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details. Qatar Irish Society Organises social, sporting and cultural events throughout the year in order to promote closer relations in the Irish community in Qatar. Join their private group on Facebook. Qatar Professional Women's Network (QPWN) An informal networking group for any woman regardless of nationality, profession, age or educational background. qpwn.org Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions throughout the year including St Andrew's Night Ball, Burns Supper and summer ceilidhs. scotsinqatar.com Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (previously known as Fanar) D4 Hosts numerous events for people of all nationalities and beliefs. 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa Sudanese Professional Association and Sudanese Women's Association (SWA) in Qatar A formal association of Sudanese professionals that organises professional, business, social and cultural events throughout the year for the Sudanese community in Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details. Swedish Association of Qatar (SAQ) Regular gatherings and social events for children and adults. saq.nu ✔ The Cambridge Society of Qatar Cambridge University alumni in Qatar who meet regularly to socialise, listen to eminent speakers and to discuss ways of promoting links between Qatar and Cambridge University. alumni.cam.ac.uk Tuesday Ladies Group (TLG) D4 Support group for expatriate women. Meets at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha for tea, coffee and cakes every other Tuesday. tuesdayladiesgroup.com

Women's Circle By Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel and life coach Anahi, hosting women's events, bringing women together to share, discuss and witness each other's journeys in a safe and enriching way. See their group on LinkedIn.

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 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. Cat Assistance Team of Qatar (CAT) Volunteer-based cat rescue group that fundraises to support cat rescue in Qatar. All proceeds go to TNR (trap-neuter-return), cat care and rescue. See their Facebook page for more details. Doha Environmental Actions Project (Deap) A team of volunteers seeking to restore the natural beauty of the beach and sand dunes in Qatar and raise awareness on the importance of preserving the environment. See their Facebook or Instagram pages for more details. ✔ 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) Multiple locations 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 Qatar Volunteers A volunteer group that participates in fundraising events, blood donation, beach cleanups, and disaster response. See their Facebook page for details. Qatar Voluntary B3 One of the youth centres of the Ministry of Sports and Youth. It strives to spread a volunteering culture to all members of the Qatari society through organising activities, programmes and events. 4467 4888, voluntary.qa 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 this section for comprehensive listings of activities and classes.

Libraries

British Council Qatar D3 Information Centre has books, magazines, videos, DVDs and internet access. 800 5501, britishcouncil.qa ✔ 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 ✔ 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 ✔ 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) D4 Music courses include piano, keyboard, guitar and vocals in Western notations, following the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months by LCM examiners. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, iaidonline.org ✔ International Centre for Music (ICMQatar) Multiple locations Offers classes in piano, keyboard, violin, guitar and music theory, as well as voice lessons. 4490 7878, icmqatar.com ✔ Music Affairs Centre D3 Established in 2016 under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, it aims to raise awareness of music culture and its importance in society. 4478 9356, qmusic.qa Qatar Concert Choir A not-for-profit audition choir performing a wide range of classical and contemporary choral music. qatarconcertchoir.com Qatar Little Voices Led by the director of Qatar Youth and Junior Choirs, Little Voices is a lively once-weekly music appreciation programme and a pre-choir entry class for young children. Class size is limited. 4036 3139, hub@sisq.qa ✔ Qatar Music Academy (QMA) at Katara Cultural Village B4 Member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and Qatar's leading academy of music. To promising young talent from the region, it offers a comprehensive music education programme, which draws on practice, music theory and incorporates both Arab and Western classical music curriculum. 4454 8191, qatarmusicacademy.com.qa Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) C2 A member of Qatar Foundation (QF), founded in 2007 by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. It consists of more than 100 musicians chosen by a jury of international

Qatar Music Academy

music professionals. They perform western and Arabic music in local and international settings. 4454 8185, qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org Qatar Youth and Junior Choirs Qatar Youth Choir, for singers aged 14 – 18, is an ambitious youth choir, singing from the great classical and contemporary choral repertoires. Qatar Junior Choir is for younger boys and girls aged 8 – 13 years and is the feeder choir to the more senior Qatar Youth Choir. qyj-choir.com, qatarconcertchoir.com ✔ Siwar Choir Qatar's leading Arabic youth choir established by JeemTV, formerly known as Al Jazeera Children's Channel (JCC), bringing together Arabic traditions with fresh and exciting music. jeemtv.net ✔ The Doha Singers A choral group that presents several concerts every year. dohasingers.com

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 Located in Umm Al Hawaya, Baladna Park is an outdoor family entertainment park, which includes a restaurant, farm, zoo, lake, carnival area and outdoor activities and entertainment such as pedal car racing, cow chariot, trampoline, zip lining, bumper boats, obstacle course and more. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm; Friday noon – 8 pm; Saturday 10 am – 8 pm. Admission: Free. Prices range for the outdoor amusement and theme park activities. 4424 6000, baladnapark.com ✔ Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Features 18 attractions with 56 rides and slides at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 6 pm. Admission: 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 ✔

Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park

Doha Quest D4 Boasts an area of 27,500 sq m with more than 30 rides and attractions, which include the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster and tallest indoor drop tower. The theme park is split into three different time-dimensions: Oryxville is a portal of the ancient Arabian past; the City of Imagination focuses on the present day; and Gravity offers a gateway into a futuristic space age. Opening times: Monday to Saturday 2 pm – 10 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 ✔ Farah Multiple Locations A full indoor theme park that combines the typical Family Entertainment Center (FEC) environment with Various Activity Rooms (VAR) designed to encourage imaginative play, social and pretend play opportunities, skill development and other open-ended play opportunities. Opening times: Daily 1 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with QAR100 minimum charge. Top-up avaliable. 4427 2807/4017 8934, farahqatar.com ✔ Funderdome Multiple Locations An indoor family entertainment centre, which focuses on fun, healthy exercise and creative activities. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Prices vary per location. 4443 9740, funderdomedoha.com ✔ KidZania Doha D2 In Aspire Zone, children can explore a 5,500 sq m child-sized city, and perform real-life tasks with more than 60 handson activities designed for children aged 1 – 14. Opening times: 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 to 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 ✔

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 9501, 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: Saturday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 3 pm – midnight. Admission: Sunday to Wednesday Day Pass QAR150, Thursday to Saturday Day Pass QAR200. PC and Console Gaming Arenas: QAR50 – QAR150 (per hour). 4042 0499, virtuocity.qa ✔

Ezdan Mall C3

Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. Opening times: Daily 2 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4479 6754, ezdanmall.qa ✔

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 ✔

Doha Quest

Hyatt Plaza D2

Jungle Zone This indoor jungle-themed playground has rides for different age groups and a video arcade area. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday noon – 10 pm, Friday 1 pm – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4499 9699, hyattplaza.com ✔

Landmark Mall C3

Circusland Has rides, games, trampolines and a large activity zone suitable for the whole family. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 1 pm – 10 pm, Thursday and Friday 1 pm – 11 pm, Saturday 9 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Tokens per game/ activity. 4487 6111/333, landmarkdoha.com ✔

Mall of Qatar C1

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 ✔ Xtremeland A multi-entertainment centre with 7D Theater, Drop and Twist Tower, Giant Slide and Clip N Climb, and more for children of all ages! Teenagers will enjoy motion fun at Trampoline Park while TagaJ and soft play will provide rotating inflatable fun and activities for toddlers and kids. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 11 pm, Friday noon – midnight. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4486 5473, mallofqatar.com.qa ✔

Mirqab Mall D3

Funderdome An indoor family entertainment centre 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 arcade games. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 11 pm. Admission: Playing card with top-up value per game/activity. 4476 1127, hangoutqatar.com Jump Trampolines, soft play and the best physical activity can be found here. Opening times: Daily 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR60 to QAR90. 4447 9313, see their Facebook page.

Royal Plaza D3

Ray's Reef A play area for children between the ages of six months and 14 years, offering arts and crafts, mini movie theatre, water play zone and more. Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 11:30 am –10 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 11 pm. Admission: QAR40 for entry. Tokens for video, redemption games and spin art can be purchased as an extra. 4413 1122, royalplazadoha.com ✔

Tawar Mall C3

BOUNCEinc Qatar An indoor trampoline park with more than 100 interconnected trampolines. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 2 pm – 10 pm, Thursday to Saturday 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: 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

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 in 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 Sports Federations, Associations and Committees

• 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 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 • 2024 FINA World Aquatics Championships • 2030 Asian Games

Get Involved! Also in this section: Sports Activities has a list of clubs and associations to join, while the Sports Calendar has an overview of events. Make sure you keep up to date with all the latest news – visit marhaba.qa, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social media. m

Qatar will be making history in 2022, as the first nation in the Middle East to host a FIFA World Cup. 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. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM promises to be the best FIFA World Cup ever!

m

Stadiums 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. 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. Stadium 974, formerly Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, takes its name from Qatar's international dialling code, as well as the exact number of shipping containers used in its construction. It will be the first fully demountable tournament venue in FIFA World Cup™ history. The final will take place at Lusail Stadium at the namesake city-of-the-future on Qatar National Day, 18 December.

Al Bayt Stadium

Lusail Stadium

Find out more about the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM: read our in-depth look at the stadiums, the countdown to the tournament, and how this World Cup will be the most sustainable yet – available for FREE in our Sports e-Guide at marhaba.qa

Discover Qatar

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 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. Open daily 10 am – 10 pm. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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

Al Ramii Shooting Club Near Losail International Circuit Target ranges are open Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm – 8 pm. 4495 3114, qsaa.qa

Cricket

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 and events for adults and children. 3140 8994, see their Facebook page for details 3

Cycling

Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Explore the island by bike or Segway. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 3 Qatar Chain Reaction Multiple locations Volunteer branch of the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation open to all road and mountain bike riders. Friday morning rides, track nights at Losail International Circuit and more. qatarchainreaction.com Qatar Cycling Federation Near College of the North Atlantic-Qatar B3 Events and development of the sport. 4447 5522, qatarcycling.org 3

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, 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

For dance and Zumba see Leisure Activities; for Pilates and yoga see Health and Wellness, both in this section Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor bootcamp, personal training and jogging tracks. 4445 0000, marriott.com Altitude Elite Lusail City A4 Personalised training for peak performance. 5085 5825, altitude.qa Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery D4 Personal training and TechnoShape body slimming sessions at M|Fit gym, for hotel guests. 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 Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Hundreds of classes for men, women, and children aged 6 months+. Registration form and schedule are available online. aspireactiveqa.com 3 Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 TRX and personal trainer on request. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha Banyan Tree Doha D4 Fitness classes and exercise rooms. 4410 3333, banyantree.com 3 Bounce Fitness Multiple locations Bootcamp, martial arts, yoga and gymnastics for adults and children. 5061 1266, bouncefitness.com.qa 3 Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Fitness centre and studio, HIIT and Tabata core, kids club and two swimming pools. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq 3 CrossFit Oryx Doha College D3 Classes and open gym. 5080 5705, crossfitoryx.com Dana Club C4 Aquarobics, aerobics and HIIT including ladies-only classes and Jump Gym for kids. 4496 0600, danaclub.com.qa 3 Dynamik QA 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 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 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 at several hotels, 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+. 3300 0779, 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 Classes in conjunction with Evolve. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha Golden Tulip Doha D4 Personal training, daily classes. 4419 8888, doha.goldentulip.com Grand Hyatt Doha B4 CrossFit, aqua gym, Tae Bo and core. 4448 1060, doha.grand.hyatt.com 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 circuit training, Tabata, bootcamp, cardio boxing, 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 Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Mixed and ladiesonly areas; Pilates Reformer, yoga, TRX, FunXtion experience, Octagon multi-functional training. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Daily group and one-to-one classes, two fitness areas (one ladies/men, one ladies only). 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz Mondrian Doha A4 Open 24/7, complimentary Diet or Fitness DNA Test with membership. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha OxFitness Lab The Gate Mall C4 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, parkhyattdoha.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 Open 24/7, fitness training and assessment, yoga and spinning studios. 4485 4600, fitness.sheratongranddoha.com 3 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 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 Warrior Fit Lagoona Mall A4 Integrated training model offering metabolic conditioning, strength training and yoga. 6655 8308, warriorfit.com The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa D4 WestinWORKOUT offers circuits, stretching, abs, HIIT and personal training. 4492 1600, marriott.com W Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Fully equipped FIT gym with punchbags and boxing gloves. 4453 5555, 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. 3067 7463, 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. 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

Golf

Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 9-hole putting course; Starting New At Golf is suitable for all ages. Open daily 8 am – 6:30 pm. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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 offers an 18-hole Championship course, 6-hole Championship course and 9-hole par 3 course. The Centre of Excellence is a 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

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

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha

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. 7797 3397, alsamriyariding.com 3 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 Qatar International Ice Hockey League Villaggio D2 A fun, recreational league with organised games. qhockey.com

Kids Clubs

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Little Explorers' Kids Club has a mini gym with kid-friendly equipment, a large outdoor playground, cinema, and an edu-training lab. 4445 0000, marriott.com 3

Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Kids and Teens' Clubs offering a safe environment with fun and games, movies and books. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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 Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 The Titan Tikes Kids' Playroom offers games, toys, arts and crafts. For ages 4 –12. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz 3 SFQ Sports Academy Multiple locations Football, gymnastics, basketball, Zumba, martial arts. For ages 3+. 6622 2962, sfqsportsacademy.com.qa 3

Martial Arts and Boxing

Evolve Multiple locations Boxing and Muay Thai workouts. 4407 6772, evolvemindbodysoul.com 3 InterContinental Doha The City C4 Kickboxing, boxing, taekwondo, karate for kids. Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity 3 Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Muay Thai, kickboxing, boxing. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha 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 The Korea Taekwondo Centre Al Muthana Complex, Salwa Rd D3 Daily from 3 pm (except Friday). For adults and children aged 5+. 5556 3305, see the Facebook group for details 3

Multipurpose and Family Clubs

Aspire Zone Foundation D2 Public fields open daily 8 am – 9 pm. 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. 5553 7177, esqalar.qa 3

Rugby

Doha Rugby Football Centre Doha Sports Park B4 Mens' first/second/third/vets teams, ladies team, and minis/youth for children. 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 long-distance track champion. The Adult Run Club holds indoor circuits and outdoor running sessions. The Junior Group is for ages 9 – 17, the Mini Group for under 9s. 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 Katara Cultural Village B4 More than 2 km of walking/running track in Katara Hills. Please observe the dress code when visiting. 5544 9862, katara.net 3 Qatar Triathlon Federation Near College of the North Atlantic-Qatar B3 Events and development of the sport. 4447 5522, qatartriathlon.org 3 TriClub Doha Multiple Locations Training, events and socialising for local triathletes of all levels and ages. The season begins each September. triclubdoha.com 3

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, also RAID certification and snorkelling. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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 Recreational PADI courses, professional and technical dive training, and Rebreather courses/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 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

Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton C4 Ladies-only on Saturday and Tuesday; classes for children aged 3+ in Al Dafna's highest indoor pool on the 52nd floor. 4004 7000, alephdoharesidences.curiocollection.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

Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton

Aspire Active Aspire Zone D2 Classes for men, women and children. Registration form and schedule are available online. 4413 6219, aspireactiveqa.com 3 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, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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@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 Mandarin Oriental, Doha D4 Two rooftop pools with private cabanas; Learn to Swim programme available. 4008 8888, mandarinoriental.com/doha

Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Eight outdoor pools, including a large whirlpool bath and a pool for children. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz 3 Mondrian Doha A4 On the 26th floor, the pool shares the space with the gym. 4045 5555, sbe.com/hotels/mondrian/doha 3 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 Park Hyatt Doha D4 Semi-covered pool on the 6th floor. 4009 1234, parkhyattdoha.com Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Aquacise classes, private swimming lessons. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 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, Squash and Padel

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Outdoor tennis and padel courts. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Synthetic grass tennis court. 4040 5050, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 3 Dana Club C4 Two indoor tennis courts, individual coaching. 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 Four Seasons Hotel Doha C4 Complimentary racquets and balls for use on the outdoor Rebound Ace courts. 4485 8888, fourseasons.com/doha 3 InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Tennis and squash lessons, tennis socials Sunday and Friday 6 pm. Outdoor padel court. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com 3 Padel Garden Doha Katara Cultural Village B4 Seven outdoor courts in Katara Hills. 4032 5528, see their Instagram page 3 Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex C4 Courts available for hire by the hour; advance booking required. The tennis school offers training for children aged 5+. 4440 9666, qatartennis.org 3 Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl – Doha A4 Two padel courts, one tennis court. Kids’ tennis lessons Saturday/Thursday by appointment. 4035 5555, kempinski.com/marsamalaz 3 Padel In Multiple locations Qatar’s first indoor padel club. Court hire can be booked online. thepadelin.com 3 Padel Qatar Qatar Sports Club C4 Court hire can be booked online. 3381 2201, padelqatar.com 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

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 Indoor tennis and squash courts, outdoor padel tennis court. Private and group lessons for adults and children, tennis socials. 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 Tennis and padel court hire, lessons 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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Floodlit court. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/en/hotel-doha 3

Water Sports

For fishing see Leisure Activities in this section 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 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, anantara.com/en/banana-island-doha 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 3 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 3 Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park, one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East with 18 attractions and 56 rides and slides. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday/Friday 10 am – 6 pm. 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa 3 InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences B4 Jetskis, tubes, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, stand up paddle boarding and a water trampoline in the lagoon. 4484 4828, doha.intercontinental.com 3 Katara Beach B4 Waterskiing, kneeboarding, parasailing, jetskis, boat/gondola rides, sailing and kayaking. Wearing a life jacket is compulsory. The beach is open daily 3:30 pm – 11 pm; swimming is not permitted after sunset. Please observe the dress code when visiting. 5544 9862, katara.net 3 Marsa Malaz Kempinski The Pearl–Qatar A4 Knee boarding, wakeboarding, kayaking, boat rides, pedal boat, hydrobike and stand up paddle boarding. 4035 5555, 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 dhow and yacht cruises. 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 boarding, 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

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

Holistic Wellness

Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha E4 Ladies-only wellness retreat with hydrothermal facilities and 'The Worlds' hydro-wellness areas (Oriental, Mystic, Mineral and Floral); yoga also available. 4445 0000, almessiladoha.com Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Holistic advice, alternative therapies and life coaching. 4040 5050, anantara.com 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 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

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 InterContinental Doha The City B4 Schedule changes weekly, call first. 4015 8888, intercontinental.com/dohathecity 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 Yama Yoga Studios Asas Twin Towers, Al Dafna C4 Courses although drop-in may be available: intro; mixed level; dynamic; advanced; core. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com

Yoga

Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Ashtanga, Hatha, yoga stretch and meditation. Booking essential, call first for up to date schedule. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha B4 Hatha and Vinyasa. 4009 5555, centarahotelsresorts.com/centara/cwq 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3/4 Power yoga sessions and monthly full moon. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com/hotel‑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 Booking essential. 4484 8183, ritzcarlton.com/doha The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa C4 Saturday 9 am with breakfast and access to the gym included. 4492 1600, westindoha.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 and Vinyasa; yin and vin/yin. See the online monthly schedule. Also teacher training and retreats at centres in Koh Phangan, Thailand and Veliko Tarnovoa, Bulgaria. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com m

Keep Your Cool When Exercising

By Sarah Palmer

Each year, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) reminds members of the public to be aware of the warning signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other forms of heat-related illness. Those who are new to the country, or who haven’t experienced such extremes of temperature before, may not realise the importance of keeping an eye on your health during the summer months, especially if trying to maintain an active lifestyle. Both the exercise in question and the air temperature can combine to raise the core body temperature. Factor in humidity and the body will have an increased problem cooling itself down. Mild to moderate dehydration can usually be reversed by drinking more fluids. However, severe cases of dehydration and heat-related illneses are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment. Left untreated, heatstroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles and cause long-term complications. Of course sunburn, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur at any time of the year. Heat-related illnesses are more common in Qatar during the summer months though due to the high temperatures and humidity levels. Those most at risk are young children, older adults and those taking medication that increase sensitivity to sunlight, as they cannot adjust to changes in environmental conditions as quickly as healthy adults. Also, be mindful of avoiding excessive exercise or sports activities if you have fasted during the day, for whatever reason. Ensure enough time has passed following drinking and eating. Exposure to the sun is a good way of the body getting Vitamin D and improving bone health. However, plan any exercise – even walking – either early in the morning or late at night to avoid direct exposure between 10 am and 3 pm when the sun is at its strongest – and always wear sunscreen. The body will be sweating more, so you may need to include sport drinks or add electrolyte tablets or rehydration sachets to water to add salts back to your body. Plan to drink a lot more than usual, and if necessary, tailor workouts to include shorter stints. If you do start to feel unwell, get out of the sun immediately and either go to a shaded area or if possible, somewhere with air conditioning. Lower body temperature by removing heavy clothing, apply a cold compress and rehydrate with water. You should start to feel better within 30 – 45 minutes.

Exercising in the heat isn’t necessarily dangerous – it’s how you cope with it that is.

To check if you are drinking enough water throughout the day, try this simple skin-pinch test: Pinch the skin on the back of your hand with your thumb and finger for a few seconds and then release. If you are hydrated, the skin will snap back into place, however if it takes time to return, you could be dehydrated. This lack of skin elasticity, known as turgur, is a sign of moderate or severe fluid loss. Stop any exercise or sports activity immediately if you start to feel dizzy, nauseated, short of breath, or have pains in your chest. If you suspect heatstroke, dial 999 and seek emergency assistance. m

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.

April 2022

Until Equestrian sport: The final race meetings of the season. Every Wednesday and Thursday 5 May afternoon from 4 pm, at Al Rayyan Park and Al Uqda Racing Complex in Al Khor. qrec.gov.qa 16 HH The Amir's Cup Final of the domestic handball league tournament. At Duhail Sports Hall.

18 – 21 QSF 2 PSA Challenger Tour 5 – Squash At Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex. psaworldtour.com 22 HH The Amir's Cup Final of the domestic volleyball league tournament. At Qatar Volleyball Association Indoor Hall.

28 Qatar Cup Handball Final of the competition. At Duhail Sports Hall.

May

1 Qatar Men’s ITF World Tennis Tour The ITF Men's World Tennis Tour is entry-level professional tennis, allowing players to compete in tournaments as a pathway between the ITF Junior World Tennis Tour and the elite levels of men’s professional tennis. Results of ITF tournaments are combined into the ATP ranking, so professionals can progress to the ATP Challenger Tour and ATP Tours. At Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex.

5 – 8 VW Beach Pro Tour Challenge Men’s and Women’s 2022 A brand new competition by Volleyball World, itself a new partnership between the FIVB and CVC Capital Partners, combining beach volleyball with entertainment. The Challenge level tournament is a feeder to the Elite16 level – there are 24 teams per gender in the main draw with modified pool play followed by a single elimination tournament. At Al Gharafa Sports Club Beach Volleyball Arena. en.volleyballworld.com

13 Wanda Doha Diamond League Athletes compete for points in 32 disciplines at 13 meetings held during the season, in order to qualify for the final in Zurich in September. Local hero Mutaz Essa Barshim is expected to compete in the high jump – he is the current World Champion and joint gold medal winner at the 2020 Summer Olympics Tokyo, so expecatations are 'high'! At Qatar Sports Club; for programme and ticket information visit doha.diamondleague.com

June

27 June – Qualification for the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup will be played from May 2022 to February 2025. 5 July There will be 18 teams competing in the pre-qualifiers, played on a round robin basis – 9 teams each in the Western Region and Eastern Region of the competition, with Qatar in the Western Region. The pre-qualifiers will see eight of these teams go through to the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, joining the 16 teams that already qualified from the 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers. At Al Gharafa Club Hall. fiba.basketball/asiacup/2025/pre-qualifiers

Summer

The high temperatures during the summer months mean many residents remain indoors as much as possible. Use this opportunity to start a new fitness regime or sport – take a look at our Sports Activities listing in this section for ideas. There are usually many promotions on gym memberships and classes to be found at this time of year – our weekly newsletter and listings on marhaba.qa will ensure you stay informed about events and special deals.

Steigenberger Hotel Doha

5 – 15 Oct 2022 Upcoming Events

Street Child World Cup Doha 2022 (SCWC 2022) Young people from across the world will come together in 13 girls and 13 boys teams to take part in a football tournament and a festival of arts, while advocating for their rights and protection at a child-focused Congress and General Assembly. Street Child United is a group of international organisations, volunteers, corporate partners and sponsors, influencers and experts, football clubs, media and artists, schools and clubs with the aim of giving the most vulnerable children the chance to represent their countries and tell the world ‘I am somebody’. In partnership with Qatar Foundation, held at Education City. streetchildunited.org/our-sports-events/street-child-world-cup-doha-2022

21 Nov – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ One of the world's Dec 18 most prolific sporting events will be coming to 2022 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

2024 20th FINA World Championships Originally scheduled for November 2023, and now to take place in January 2024, this is the leading competition for aquatic sports, like swimming, diving, high diving, open water swimming, artistic swimming, and water polo. fina.org m

Meet La’eeb, the Official Mascot for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™!

Meaning ‘super-skilled player’, La’eeb belongs to a parallel mascot-verse that is indescribable – he encourages everyone to believe in themselves as ‘Now is All’. La’eeb will be known for his youthful spirit, as he aims to spread joy and confidence to the world. Fans will be able to download GIFs and stickers via social media channels, as well as screensavers and filters.

Al Rihla has been revealed by adidas as the Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The 14th successive ball created by adidas for the FIFA World Cup™ is designed to support peak game speeds, as it travels faster in flight than any ball in the tournament’s history.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Official Soundtrack has been released! The uplifting single Hayya Hayya (Better Together) features US star Trinidad Cardona, Afrobeats icon Davido, and Qatari sensation Aisha, and is the first of a selection of singles to be released from the multi-song FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Official Soundtrack.

marhaba

Stadium Update

A Spotlight on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

STADIUM UPDATE

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. Some 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. 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. All these measures will ensure Qatar will bring the first and best sustainable World Cup competition yet!

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Khalifa International Stadium

Built 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. 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.

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.

More than 40,000 football fans attended the launch of the first proposed host venue of the 2022 FIFA World Cup™ in Qatar, with The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, officially cutting the ribbon at the new Khalifa International Stadium.

The official inauguration ceremony featured a light show using the new LED lights, a performance from the Amiri Guard, and an impressive firework display that saw ‘2022’ displayed in the sky above the stadium.

The final of the Amir Cup, Qatar’s biggest domestic trophy, kicked off afterwards, making it the stadium’s first sporting event since being renovated ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup™.

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Al Janoub Stadium

Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakra was designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, with a bold, futuristic shape. The 40,000-capacity stadium was opened in 2019 hosting the final of the Amir Cup, with the inauguration featuring 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 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.

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. m

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Education City Stadium

The official completion of Education City Stadium on 15 June 2020 was commemorated with a TV programme showcasing the third of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ venues to be match ready. 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 will host matches through to the quarter-finals stage of the tournament. The design draws its inspiration from Islamic architecture, with a façade that features triangles forming complex, diamond-esque 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. 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 drought-tolerant 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. 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.

STADIUM UPDATE

The first match at the stadium will be for the group stage on 22 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. m

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor City

Al 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 will be joined by a retractable roof system and cooling technologies. These features will allow for comfortable temperatures inside without using extra power – one important aspect of the stadium’s design is sustainability and low energy usage. The 60,000 seats have been produced by local company Coastal Qatar and are almost all installed. The stadium’s inner architecture is at the final stages and the tunnels that players will emerge from are ready. The stadium’s steel roof structure and its façade are also now finished. Al Bayt Stadium has already received a Class A* rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). Outside the stadium, parks and greenery will 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 will approach the stadium on tree-lined walkways before entering the traditional-meets-modern piece of architecture.

STADIUM UPDATE

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. 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 will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and fixtures through to the semifinals. 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.

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Al 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. 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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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. 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. Post-tournament, the seating capacity reduced to 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 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.

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Al Thumama Stadium

Located 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 schematic design of Al Thumama Stadium, led by chief architect, Ibrahim M Jaidah. He is one of the region’s most renowned architects, and his previous work includes the mighty Ministry of Interior headquarters in Doha.

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 was 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 will be 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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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. At the moment, the stadium is still under construction. The roof is in place and finishing works are continuing, with most of the seats having been fitted. 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.

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Ras Abu Aboud Stadium

The Ras Abu Aboud Stadium may be one of the most innovative and radical to be built for a FIFA World Cup™ tournaments – or any sporting event! Situated looking across Doha’s Al Dafna/West Bay skyline and the Arabian Gulf, Ras Abu Aboud Stadium promises to be a spectacular venue for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ matches. The 40,000-seat venue is being 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 will be required than in traditional stadium building, which has the added advantage of reducing construction costs.

The design is the brainchild of Fenwick Iribarren Architects. It will be constructed using shipping containers, removable seats and other modular building blocks, a unique and colourful design in keeping with the nearby port. The majority of the stadium’s major requirements – for example, seating, bathroom facilities and food stalls – will operate within the shipping containers. These will be arranged in an elegant curved square which will give the venue its iconic aesthetic. The project has a lower carbon footprint due to its dockside location as natural sea breezes lessen the requirements on the stadium’s cooling system. To date, more than half of the containers are in place, some of the seats have been installed and work on the roof is continuing. 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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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.

marhaba

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

21 November – 18 December

Lusail Stadium

T

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, is just 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 the upcoming Lusail Tram. 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. The location of the stadium also offers excellent commuter links via the upgraded road network, shuttle buses from the nearby park and ride system, or even on foot or bike using the new walking and cycle paths! 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

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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. 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. 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.