Visit Qatar has won a Gold Tower Award at the 2026 New York Festivals TV & Film Awards for its campaign, launched in November 2025, which showcased Qatar’s packed and diverse calendar of world-class cultural, sporting and entertainment events. The campaign was recognised in the Tourism category under the Corporate Image Division and featured in the festival’s internationally recognised Winners Gallery. Set within the arrivals terminal at Hamad International Airport, the campaign brings Qatar’s year-round calendar of events to life through cinematic storytelling and appearances by internationally recognised talent, who also amplified the campaign across their own digital channels. The film captures the anticipation and excitement of arriving in Qatar while highlighting the destination’s rich cultural identity, world-class hospitality offering, and diverse tourism experiences and events. Running from November 2025 to January 2026 across 15 markets, including the GCC, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America, the campaign was activated through an integrated multi-platform strategy spanning activations, paid social, programmatic advertising, connected TV, and direct media placements. The campaign delivered more than 3.7 billion impressions, over 11.3 million clicks, 1.1 billion video views, and generated 2 million landing page views, significantly exceeding planned results. The award reflects Visit Qatar’s continued commitment to delivering impactful global campaigns that elevate Qatar’s international profile and reinforce its position as a leading tourism destination. The New York Festivals TV & Film Awards celebrate excellence in storytelling and creative communications across television, film, and branded content, recognising outstanding work from organisations and brands around the world.

Aligned with Visit Qatar’s ongoing campaign ‘Hala Summer’, Qatar Calendar has announced the entertainment and activation programme for the inaugural edition of Sneaker Con Doha, with Redbull as official entertainment partner and M7 as official partner, taking place from May 29 to 31, 2026 at Hall 1 of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Hosting “The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth” in Doha for the first time, the three-day event will deliver an immersive celebration of sneaker culture, streetwear, music, sport and entertainment as part of Qatar Calendar’s diverse annual events calendar. Spanning more than 7,000 square metres, the event will feature seven dedicated zones designed to offer visitors an engaging and interactive experience. These include the Kids Zone, Main Stage, Skater Park, DJ Booth, Basketball Court, Graffiti Roaming activations, and roaming entertainment areas, creating a vibrant atmosphere for sneaker enthusiasts, collectors, families and younger audiences alike. Daily activations will include live DJ performances, beatbox sets, breakdance and hip-hop performances, live music bands, mascot parades, graffiti artists, roaming performances. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a range of interactive sporting competitions, and watch basketball competitions held in collaboration with the Qatar Basketball Federation. Additional attractions will include live vintage car displays and a variety of food and beverage kiosks. The Doha edition will also feature a curated marketplace bringing together global, regional and local vendors offering rare sneakers, and limited-edition releases, streetwear collections. In addition, Sneaker Con Authenticated will provide on-site verification services. In addition to the entertainment line-up, the event will host a series of panel discussions between 17:40 to 18:00 each day, bringing together regional and international voices from the sneaker and streetwear industry to discuss trends, authentication, collecting culture, and the evolution of the global sneaker marketplace. Entry to Sneaker Con Doha is complimentary through pre-registration on Platinumlist. Visitors may also purchase a dedicated VIP Experience priced at QAR 500, which includes access for two persons to the VIP Lounge, hospitality services, and assistance from a trained personal shopper. Tickets and registration are available through Platinumlist via https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/sneaker-con-doha

Qatar Museums (QM), Media City Qatar, and SNRG on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, officially unveiled the 321 Esports Lounge Powered by Media City Qatar, a permanent, fully accessible esports development hub housed inside the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum (QOSM). The opening makes QOSM the first Olympic Museum in the world to feature a dedicated esports space, marking a significant milestone for Qatar's sporting and digital cultural landscape. The launch of the 321 Esports Lounge Powered by Media City Qatar reflects a strategic collaboration between Qatar Museums and Media City Qatar to support the future growth of esports in Qatar. The initiative brings together two complementary perspectives; Qatar Museums' commitment to sport, culture and youth development through the 321 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, and Media City Qatar's focus on advancingthe country's growing media, content, and digital business ecosystem. Together, the organisations have established the lounge as a long-term institutionally-backed platform for esports development in Qatar. Director of 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum Abdulla Yousef Al Mulla said: "The 321 Esports Lounge is a natural extension of what the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum was always meant to be - a living institution that speaks to the next generation in their own language. Esports is not a departure from our mission; it is an expression of it. Sport has always evolved, and our role at Qatar Museums is to ensure that our spaces evolve with it. By making this the most accessible gaming destination in Qatar, we are opening our doors to an entirely new community of young people and giving them a permanent home inside one of the country's great cultural institutions." Chief Executive Officer of Media City Qatar Hamad Omar A. Al-Mannai said: "Gaming and esports are becoming an increasingly important part of the global media landscape, and for Media City Qatar, this is a strategic key priority area that sits at the intersection of media, content, and technology. With the Middle East esports market projected to reach $9.57 billion by 2030 and the region expected to record the fastest growth globally at a 12.9% CAGR, we see a clear opportunity for Qatar to play a meaningful role in shaping the sector's future. The 321 Esports Lounge Powered by Media City Qatar reflects that ambition by creating an accessible space where the next generation of digital creators and players can experiment, connect, and grow." Bringing the Lounge to life on the ground is a multi-year strategic agreement between Qatar Museums and SNRG. Under the agreement, SNRG conceived, developed, and curated the full project from concept to execution, and holds ongoing responsibility for the Lounge's day-to-day operations and long-term development. The agreement is a meaningful recognition of SNRG's role in shaping Qatar's esports landscape. Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SNRG Ibrahim Samha said: "As a leading esports company in Qatar, SNRG is dedicated to raising the standard of esports and propelling the country to the forefront of the global scene. The 321 Esports Lounge is one of the most defining things we have built in that mission, a home for the community where anyone can walk in, play, learn, and grow. Our role goes beyond launching a venue, it is to operate and grow a national platform that nurtures local talent and creates real opportunities for players across Qatar. Partnering with Qatar Museums and standing alongside Media City Qatar to bring this to life is a defining moment for SNRG, and a statement of intent for the sector we are committed to building." The 321 Esports Lounge Powered by Media City Qatar has been designed to serve everyone under one roof, from first-time players walking in for a casual session to national athletes preparing for competition. It operates on an accessibility-first, non-profit model, offering the most affordable gaming sessions available anywhere in Qatar, and will remain open and activated year-round with a continuous calendar of casual sessions, competitive tournaments, educational workshops, and structured training programmes. The lounge features 12 high-end PC stations representing the most advanced gaming setups publicly accessible in Qatar, 5 console stations equipped with PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2, a professional broadcast station for live streaming and content creation, and a complimentary viewing area open to all museum visitors and spectators. Programming spans walk-in casual gaming sessions with no booking required, competitive tournaments across multiple game titles with cash prizes, classroom-style gamified educational workshops, and structured training courses designed to bridge the gap between casual play and competitive readiness. The 321 Esports Lounge Powered by Media City Qatar is open now. To view the full programming calendar or learn more, visit https://321qosm.org.qa/en/.

The Ministry of Municipality, in collaboration with Visit Qatar and Qatar Calendar, announced the 2026 Eid Al Adha Family Festival at 974 Beach as part of the Eid celebrations in Qatar. In a social media post, the Ministry said the beach will welcome visitors on May 28 and 29, 2026, from 4pm to 8pm daily, featuring a variety of free entertainment activities and live performances for both children and adults. The festival programme includes puppet, magic, bubble, and circus shows, each lasting 30 minutes, while the Angry Birds show will run for 60 minutes. The Ministry added that the kids' zone will include face painting, henna, balloons, beach games, and a stage equipped with a giant screen and lighting effects. Entry to the beach will be free for children under six years old and people with disabilities. Tickets for children aged under 14 will cost QR15, while adults will pay QR35. VIP vehicle entry will be available for QR150. Meanwhile, 974 Beach management stated in a separate social media post that visitors will be allowed to bring their own food and snacks to enhance their beach experience.

Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Hamad International Airport (HIA), has launched a service excellence training programme for immigration officers working across Qatar’s key entry points, reinforcing ongoing efforts to deliver a seamless and welcoming arrival experience for visitors. The first training session is scheduled to commence on May 17, with sessions continuing through to the end of October 2026. The programme focuses on enhancing customer service capabilities and communication skills among frontline immigration officers, helping to ensure visitors receive a positive first impression that reflects Qatar’s hospitality values. The initiative forms part of Qatar Tourism’s broader strategy to enhance service excellence across visitor touchpoints and strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading global tourism destination. Building on the collaboration established with the Ministry of Interior Training Institute in 2023, the programme expands ongoing service excellence training efforts for immigration and police personnel, including additional sessions delivered in early 2025 for 66 police officers across both male and female institutes. Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said: “The visitor journey begins at the country’s entry points, making these interactions an important part of the overall destination experience. Through this collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Hamad International Airport, we are continuing to build on Qatar’s service excellence standards by further enhancing the capabilities of frontline personnel and reinforcing the welcoming spirit that reflects Qatar’s hospitality values.” The Service Excellence Training programme complements Qatar Tourism’s wider portfolio of capability-building initiatives, including the Qatar Host Training Programme, the Spirit of Hospitality in-person training programme, the Qatar Specialist e-learning platform, and the Service Excellence Academy initiatives. Through the Service Excellence Academy, Qatar Tourism continues to develop specialised training programmes aimed at enhancing service standards across the tourism and hospitality sector, while equipping frontline personnel with the skills required to deliver high-quality visitor experiences. The Academy also delivers a range of specialised initiatives, including the Tour Guide Training Programme and the Desert Safari Tour Guide Programme, both of which have witnessed strong participation. Additional initiatives include the Summer Camp for children, which offers engaging educational experience during the holiday period, as well as The Art of Front Office Hospitality programme, designed to further elevate guest engagement and service standards across the sector.

As summer sets in, Qatar’s coastline offers a refreshing way to experience the country, where tranquil northern shores, vibrant city beaches and dramatic desert landscapes come together along the Arabian Gulf. Whether it is a quiet morning by the water, a family day out or an active beach escape, each destination offers a distinct experience shaped by its surroundings. The country offers a diverse mix of public and private beaches, catering to a wide range of preferences, from open-access natural shores to curated beachfront destinations Nami Beach Nami Beach, the latest addition to Qatar’s coastline located in the heart of Doha, offers a curated beachfront experience with cabanas, landscaped areas and dining options. It also features a dedicated ladies-only zone, providing a more private and comfortable setting for visitors. 974 Beach Located near Stadium 974, this contemporary beach combines leisure with a lively atmosphere. With water sports including jet skiing and kayaking, as well as beach volleyball, football and dedicated activity zones, it offers a dynamic and interactive seaside experience. West Bay Beach Positioned in central Doha, West Bay Beach offers a convenient escape with views of the city skyline. As one of the few dog-friendly beaches, it is ideal for relaxed walks, swimming and casual time by the sea. Sealine Beach Situated in Mesaieed, Sealine Beach is a long-standing favourite, cherished by generations for its unique blend of desert and sea. Visitors can enjoy dune bashing and swimming in a dynamic, all-day beach and desert setting. Inland Sea The Inland Sea, or Khor Al Adaid, features a rare landscape where desert dunes meet the sea. Recognised as a UNESCO-listed natural reserve, visitors can experience desert adventureand swimming, making it one of Qatar’s most immersive desert-to-sea adventure destinations. Fuwairit Beach Located along Qatar’s northeast coast, Fuwairit Beach is known for its soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. Home to the purpose-built Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, it offers world-class kitesurfing, water sports and beachfront leisure facilities, making it a key destination for active coastal experiences. Al Maroona Beach Al Maroona is known for its golden sands and shallow waters. Its untouched setting makes it ideal for swimming, picnics, camping and spotting marine life such as starfish and crabs along the shore. Simaisma Beach Located north of Doha, Simaisma Beach is a family-friendly destination known for its calm, shallow waters. With shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, barbecue spots and open spaces for beach games, it offers a complete setting for relaxed family outings. Zekreet Beach Located on Qatar’s west coast, Zekreet Beach is known for its dramatic limestone rock formations and remote desert setting. Popular for camping, windsurfing, it offers a secluded, off-the-grid coastal experience surrounded by nature and wildlife. Dukhan Beach Located on Qatar’s west coast, Dukhan Beach is known for its wide shoreline and calm, clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling along reef areas, fishing and camping, making it ideal for group outings and outdoor seaside experiences. Together, these beaches reflect the diversity of Qatar’s coastline, offering experiences that range from natural settings to well-developed urban destinations. Whether seeking relaxation, adventure or family-friendly outings, Qatar’s beaches continue to position the country as an accessible and compelling summer destination. Beyond its coastline, Qatar offers an exceptional summer season filled with activities, events, attractions, offers and promotions under the Hala Summer programme and Kids Go Free offer. For more information, please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/summer

Aligned with Qatar’s summer season, Visit Qatar’s ‘Hala Summer’ campaign, running from April to September 2026, sets the stage for a vibrant line-up of events and experiences across the country. Within this context, the May edition of Qatar Calendar highlights the beginning of a dynamic seasonal programme, reinforcing Qatar’s positioning as a leading summer destination. From major international exhibitions such as the Doha International Book Fair 2026 to prestigious sporting events including the Amir Cup Final 2026, as well as concerts and circus performances, May offers residents and visitors a diverse schedule of experiences across Doha and various locations in the country. Entertainment and Family Shows Entertainment enthusiasts can look forward to a full calendar of events, with Fontana Circus, the first travelling water circus in the Middle East, presenting family shows at the circus tent in Hyatt Plaza until May 31. Meanwhile, The Legend: King of Pop Live show concludes its run at the Oasis Theatre at Mall of Qatar on May 2, bringing iconic performances back to the stage. For theatre and comedy audiences, the Qatar National Convention Centre will host the interactive children’s musical Jamal Jamal on May 27 to May 29 first three days of Eid al-Adha, while Doha Players will present the play 'Nine' by Jane Shepard from May 13 to 15, exploring themes of human connection. At Abdulaziz Nasser Theatre in Souq Waqif, audiences can enjoy the comedy show Wagef! with Mina Nader in Qatar on May 23. Music enthusiasts can attend Candlelight concerts at Four Seasons Hotel Doha on May 16, featuring ‘From Mozart to Chopin’ and ‘Best of Arabic and Western Songs’. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will present Mozart and Bartók at Katara Opera House on May 23, while Heenat Salma Farm will host A Tribute to Asha Bhosle onMay 8. For families, the Museum of Islamic Art will organise Family Day: Hajj – Traditions, Art and Legacy on May 9, featuring interactive educational activities. Sports Events and Competitions May will also host major sporting events, led by the Amir Cup Final 2026 at Khalifa International Stadium on May 9. Various venues across the country will host the 4thGCC Games from May 11 to 22, bringing together athletes from across the region to compete in 19 sports. For fitness enthusiasts, the QTRI Azure Beach Club Aquathlon will take place at Azure Beach Club on Qetaifan North Island on May 2, featuring swimming and running races for different age groups. Arts, Culture and Exhibitions The month also features a strong cultural and artistic line-up, including the Doha International Book Fair 2026 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre from May 14 to 23, bringing together writers, ideas and cultures. At the same venue, Sneaker Con Doha will take place from May 29 to 31 as one of the world’s largest sneaker exhibitions, alongside the Tajheezat Eid al-Adha Fair running until May 5, featuring products from more than 15 countries. Galleria Al Hazm will host the eighth edition of the ‘Zeenah’ exhibition from May 6 to 13, dedicated to fashion and women’s products, while the Qatar Education Leadership Expo 2026 will take place at Radisson Blu Hotel on May 23 and 24. Across Qatar Museums, exhibitions continue throughout the month, including Resolutions: Celebrating 15 years of Mathaf at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art until August 8. Empire of Light: Visions and Voices of Afghanistan at the Museum of Islamic Art until May 30, and A Sneak Peek at the Qatar Auto Museum Project at the National Museum of Qatar will run until February 2, 2027. At Fire Station: Artist in Residence, three exhibitions will continue until May 31 which include Ho Tzu Nyen: Hotel Aporia, Haroon Mirza: Everything Was, Is and Always Will Be, and the solo exhibition Chung Seoyoung: Endless Facts. The Museum of Islamic Art’s Education Centre will also offer a series of art workshops, including Nasta’liq Calligraphy Workshop (Intermediate Level) from May 2 to 23, ‘Drawing for Adults’ from May 10 to 13, and Mono-printing Workshop for Adults on May 16

Doha, Qatar — Visit Qatar has announced the launch of its latest summer campaign, “Kids Go Free”, as part of the Hala Summer 2026 season, offering a wide range of family-focused benefits across the country. Running from 1 May to 30 September 2026, the campaign allows children under 12 to stay, dine, and enjoy selected experiences free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult, creating added value for families seeking summer staycations in Qatar. More than 100 hotels and resorts are participating in the campaign, offering Kids Stay Free, with up to two children staying at no additional cost when sharing their parents’ room. Hotels will also provide Kids Eat Free options across breakfast, lunch, and dinner at participating restaurants. Beyond accommodation, families can benefit from Kids Explore Free experiences, including selected tours such as desert safaris, cultural activities, and marine excursions, offered by participating partners. The campaign also extends to attractions across the country, where theme parks, waterparks, and entertainment venues will introduce family-friendly offers, including “buy two, get one free” and “buy one, get one free” promotions for children. Selected museums and cultural sites will also provide complimentary child entry with paid adult tickets. Dining promotions are available across participating restaurants, allowing children to dine free from dedicated kids’ menus when accompanied by a paying adult. Additional benefits include prepaid credit bundles at selected venues, offering bonus value for dining, retail, and activities. All offers are accessible through the Visit Qatar Wallet, activated upon hotel check-in via QR code, enabling guests to redeem vouchers across participating locations. The campaign is part of the broader Hala Summer 2026 programme, which features a variety of events and attractions including the Qatar Toy Festival, Minecraft World, Colorverse, Fontana Circus, and Sneaker Con, alongside activations across major shopping malls. Through this initiative, Visit Qatar aims to position the country as a leading family-friendly summer destination, combining entertainment, leisure, and cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Visit Qatar has officially announced the return of the Throwback Food Festival  for its highly anticipated third edition, scheduled to take place from 16 February until the end of Ramadan  at Old Doha Port. The festival offers visitors a nostalgic culinary journey through time, celebrating iconic food trends and flavors inspired by the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s . This year’s edition will feature 30 participating vendors and restaurants , including regional participants from across the Middle East, all presenting menus that recreate and reinterpret beloved dishes from past decades. Beyond its diverse dining experiences, the festival will transform Old Doha Port into a retro-themed destination, complete with period-inspired décor, immersive ambiance, and entertainment programming designed to reflect the distinctive spirit of earlier eras. Positioned as a family-friendly Ramadan attraction, the Throwback Food Festival aims to provide visitors with a unique blend of nostalgia, cultural storytelling, and vibrant community engagement throughout the holy month.

Enhancements to the Hayya Visa for GCC Residents Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent Committee for Managing Visitor Entry, has announced updates to the "Hayya" GCC Residents Visa (A2). These new features aim to make travel to Qatar smoother and more convenient during a season rich in international sporting, cultural, and entertainment events. The updates will take effect on 30 November 2025 . They allow visitors from GCC countries to stay in Qatar for up to two months and offer multiple-entry access. This means that visitors can come and go freely, making it easier to attend various events throughout the season. Seamless Entry Experience These enhancements are aimed at providing a seamless entry experience across all points of arrival. As Qatar prepares to welcome regional visitors for the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup , along with a packed events calendar, these updates come at a crucial time. The new visa features allow GCC residents to move in and out of the country with ease. This flexibility enables fans to attend matches and enjoy Qatar's broader cultural and entertainment offerings without hassle. Operational Readiness for Major Events Through the Hayya Platform, Qatar continues to ensure a smooth arrival experience and strong operational readiness for the tournament and other major events during peak periods. This commitment reflects Qatar's dedication to providing an exceptional experience for all visitors. Commenting on the new updates, Director of Hayya, Saeed Al Kuwari, stated: "These measures go beyond simple procedural changes. They reflect Qatar Tourism's broader vision to strengthen the country's openness to the region, facilitate visitor movement during major sports and cultural events, increase arrivals, and enhance tourism's contribution to the national economy. They also reinforce Qatar's position as a leading regional destination for tourism and international events." The Hayya Platform: Your Gateway to Qatar Operated by Qatar Tourism, Hayya serves as Qatar's official e-visa digital platform. As Qatar's central digital gateway, Hayya streamlines access to the country through integrated visa processing and event access, all within a single, user-friendly interface. By making entry seamless for GCC residents, Qatar Tourism is enabling more visitors from neighboring countries to enjoy the season's events. This initiative strengthens Qatar's global tourism profile and supports economic growth. Visa Categories Offered Hayya offers five distinct visa categories: Tourist Visa (A1) GCC Resident Visa (A2) Visa with ETA (A3) Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4) Visa-Free for US Citizens (F1) Each category is designed to cater to different visitor needs, ensuring that everyone can find an option that suits their travel plans. Enhancing Visitor Experience We believe that enhancing the visitor experience is crucial. The updates to the Hayya Visa are not just about convenience; they are about creating lasting memories. Visitors can explore Qatar's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant events. The flexibility of the new visa allows families to plan longer stays. It also encourages friends to visit together, making it a perfect opportunity for group travel. We are excited to see how these changes will positively impact tourism in Qatar. Future Prospects Looking ahead, we anticipate that the updates to the Hayya Visa will lead to increased tourism. As more visitors come to Qatar, we expect to see a boost in local businesses and cultural exchanges. This growth will not only benefit the tourism sector but also enrich the community. We are committed to ensuring that Qatar remains a welcoming destination. Our goal is to provide an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Conclusion In conclusion, the updates to the Hayya GCC Residents Visa (A2) are a significant step forward for Qatar Tourism. By enhancing the travel experience for GCC residents, we are not only promoting tourism but also fostering cultural exchange and economic growth. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Qatar and showcasing our vibrant events and attractions. For more information on the Hayya platform and visa options, please visit Hayya Platform . Hashtags: #QatarTourism #HayyaVisa #VisitQatar الهاشتاجات: #سياحة_قطر #تأشيرة_هيا #زيارة_قطر

The International Fairs & Promotions (IFP Qatar) has announced a comprehensive line-up of seven major exhibitions scheduled to take place across Qatar in 2026, reaffirming its strategic role in advancing the country’s exhibitions, conferences, and business events sector. The 2026 calendar includes Project Qatar, the Smart Manufacturing Exhibition, ConsumerTeQ, Hospitality Qatar, Food Qatar, Qatar Medicare, and the Beauty & Wellcare Show — covering key economic sectors that support diversification and sustainable growth in line with the Third National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030. Speaking during a press conference, Ms. Hayat Bayan, Commercial & Operations Director at IFP Qatar , highlighted that 2026 coincides with the 45th anniversary of IFP Group , underscoring its long-standing experience in delivering high-impact international exhibitions. “These events create an integrated ecosystem connecting productive and service sectors, fostering partnerships between local and international companies, and enabling decision-makers, investors, and industry leaders to exchange knowledge,” Bayan said. “They strengthen the business environment, boost investment flows, and facilitate knowledge transfer across industries.” She announced that the 22nd edition of Project Qatar , the country’s largest construction and building materials exhibition, will take place from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) . The exhibition continues to play a critical role in supporting Qatar’s infrastructure and development agenda by showcasing sustainable construction technologies, innovative materials, and engineering solutions. Bayan noted that Qatar’s project market is witnessing strong momentum, citing Ministry of Finance data indicating 4,464 tenders issued to the private sector in 2026 , with an estimated value exceeding QAR 70 billion . Meanwhile, MEED Projects data show Qatar’s known, planned, and unawarded project portfolio reaching USD 171.7 billion , reflecting strong long-term market prospects. Held alongside Project Qatar, the Smart Manufacturing Exhibition  and the first edition of ConsumerTeQ  aim to enhance synergy across construction, manufacturing, and consumer technology sectors. The Smart Manufacturing Exhibition aligns with the Qatar National Manufacturing Strategy 2024–2030 , highlighting automation, AI, IoT, smart logistics, and sustainable production systems. ConsumerTeQ will provide visitors with hands-on access to the latest consumer technologies, including smartphones, gaming devices, smart home solutions, and wearables. The event will feature exclusive product launches, live demonstrations, interactive workshops, and dedicated retail zones offering early access and special promotions. The 11th edition of Hospitality Qatar  will be held from 12 to 14 October 2026 at DECC , alongside Food Qatar , bringing together hospitality, F&B, design, technology, and sustainability professionals to explore business opportunities within Qatar’s growing tourism and hospitality sector. According to Qatar Tourism data, Qatar recorded 10.8 million hotel room nights sold in 2025 , an 8.6% increase year-on-year , with accommodation revenues rising 12% to QAR 8.3 billion . Total visitor numbers reached 5.1 million , reflecting continued sector recovery. Qatar Medicare  will take place from 14 to 16 December 2026 at DECC , serving as Qatar’s leading international healthcare and medical exhibition and conference, showcasing innovations, technologies, and services shaping the healthcare sector. Commenting on DECC’s role, Mr. Jose Vicente, CEO of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center , said the venue has become a leading destination for major global events, supported by world-class infrastructure, accessibility, and integrated facilities. He added that Qatar’s advanced ecosystem, regulatory environment, and organizational expertise continue to reinforce its position as a global hub for conferences and exhibitions, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Qatar is expected for the first time ever to experience a celebration of light, color, and culture as the Lantern Festival transforms Al Bidda Park into a glowing wonderland Organized by Safe Flight Solutions (SFS), this family-oriented event will feature hundreds of magnificent, illuminated sculptures inspired by ancient Chinese artistry, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for visitors of all ages, from November 27, 2025, to March 28, 2026.  The CEO of Safe Flight Solutions, Captain Hassan Al-Mousawi, said “We are thrilled to bring this extraordinary festival to Doha. The Lantern Festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of light, hope, and togetherness. Partnering with Al Bidda Park and Haitian Culture allows us to create an experience that connects people through art, culture, and imagination — all under Qatar’s beautiful winter sky.” The General Manager of Al Bidda Park, Khalid Al-Suwaidi said “We are delighted to welcome families and visitors from around the world to experience this spectacular celebration.” “The Lantern Festival complements our mission to make Al Bidda Park a center for family entertainment, cultural engagement, and community joy throughout the season.” As the official venue partner, Al Bidda Park plays a key role in hosting this one-of-a-kind event in the heart of Doha. The festival is developed in collaboration with Haitian Culture, one of the world’s foremost creators of traditional lantern art and will add an artistic dimension to the experience. Safe Flight Solutions is renowned for their spectacular light exhibitions across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and is the company behind some of Qatar’s most beloved outdoor events, including the Qatar Balloon Festival, Visit Qatar Kite Festival, and Lusail Sky Festival. Visitors will pay a ticket fee of QAR 40 for adults and QAR 25 for children to participate in activities such as breathtaking lantern displays – hand-crafted illuminated sculptures depicting animals, plants, and cultural icons across themed zones, Family Fun Zone – with inflatables, arcade games, and interactive entertainment for children, International Food Court – offering a diverse range of global cuisines. The festival will also feature Above the Clouds Lounge – an exclusive luxury dining experience inspired by the world of hot-air ballooning where guests will dine in a chic balloon-basket-style setting, suspended in ambience and design rather than altitude Originating during China’s Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 25 CE), the Lantern Festival has evolved into a global art form that captivates audiences from Asia to Europe and beyond.