National Sports Day in Qatar -2026

 Qatar National Sport Day (held annually on the second Tuesday of February) turns the whole country into a giant fitness zone, with ministries, parks, and sports clubs hosting free activities for the public.

 Where  to   go  ? 

Some ideas  :Aspire Zone (10 February 2026) is a morning event designed to promote healthy, active lifestyles for all ages in a safe and inclusive setting. Activities will take place mainly on pitches 10 and 11, with additional Aspire Academy programs on pitches 4, 5, and 12, running from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The program features a wide variety of sports and fitness options, including a walk around Aspire Park Lake, fitness classes, spinning, football, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, shooting, hockey, chess, padel, skydiving demonstrations, youth activities (Shabab 22), Sports Corner events, and Aspetar activities

https://aspirezone.qa/en/events/national-sport-day-2026

____________________

Education City Run: Color Edition

Join the Education City Run: Color Edition — a lively National Sport Day event filled with music, colorful powder bursts, and a festive community spirit. With distances from an 800m kids’ dash to a 10K race, everyone can participate at their own pace. Awards will be given across multiple age categories, and part of the proceeds supports Education Above All. Remember to wear sports-appropriate clothing covering shoulders and knees, with closed-toe shoes.

Registration  is needed online

Event Time: Tuesday, 10 February 2026, from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM. Open to participants aged 3 to 50.

____________________________

 Lusail Boulevard half-marathon

اكتمل العدد 🏁
شكراً لحماسكم وتفاعلكم

نلتقي في درب لوسيل

All slots are filled 🏁
Thank you for the amazing response.

See you at Lusail Boulevard. pic.twitter.com/DcFfSiQVDO

— Team Qatar 🇶🇦 (@qatar_olympic) February 8, 2026

Romantic Dinner Deals in Doha -2026

 Looking for the perfect romantic dinner for two? 💕

Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate set menu, a lavish buffet, or something exotic like volcano sushi and heart-shaped desserts, I’ve rounded up some irresistible deals on Qgrabs.

Read my latest posts and discover how to turn an ordinary evening into a memorable culinary experience!

Dinner Buffet at The Grand Lux

Celebrate love with a romantic dinner buffet for two — now just QR159 instead of QR320. Enjoy everything from creamy mushroom soup and fresh salads to hot mezza, flavorful mains like butter chicken, lamb stew, sweet and sour fish, and a delicious mixed grill. Finish the evening with irresistible desserts, including red velvet cake, chocolate cake, and strawberry mousse.

  grab  the voucher  here 

________________________

Romantic Dinner Buffet at Midan Restaurant - 

Shaza Doha Hotel

Enjoy a romantic dinner buffet at Midan Restaurant in Shaza Hotel for just QR90 instead of QR180. Delight in a rich selection of international and Arabic dishes, from tasty starters to indulgent mains and tempting desserts — all served in an elegant, softly lit setting perfect for date nights or special celebrations.

_____________________________

Romantic Valentine’s dinner buffet for two at The Avenue Hotel — now QR165 instead of QR340. Enjoy international favorites and indulgent desserts in a warm, intimate setting made for unforgettable moments.

 buy  the  voucher here

_________________________

Romantic Japanese Koibito set menu for two at Yoto Sushi Bar, The Grand Lux Hotel — now QR239 instead of QR480. Enjoy tempura, miso soup, premium sushi, teriyaki salmon, tori katsudon, and a heart-shaped cake for a truly memorable evening.

 grab   the   deal  here 

_________________

Valentine’s deals are valid for Feb 14 — but if you miss the date, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a luxurious Afternoon High Tea at Shalimar.

Pay QR149 instead of QR298 for two, or QR189 instead of QR372 for five. Indulge in an elegant spread of sweet and savory bites, decadent desserts, and unlimited coffee and tea — perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a special get-together with friends.

 Grab  the  voucher  here 

Building Bridges - scupltures by Lorenzo Quinn - Katara

Walking through Katara’s elegant district near Galeries Lafayette, I recently encountered something unexpected — a tunnel formed by monumental, intertwined hands. For a moment, the noise of the world seemed to quiet down. The sculpture invites you not just to pass through it, but to reflect on connection, trust, and the invisible bridges that hold humanity together.

The installation is the work of Italian sculptor Lorenzo Quinn, an artist renowned for transforming the simple image of a hand into a universal language. In his vision, hands are capable of building as much as they are of destroying — which is precisely why he chooses them to symbolize cooperation, hope, and shared responsibility.

In a time when public spaces are often marked by tension or memories of conflict, encountering a work that speaks so clearly about unity feels refreshing. Rather than glorifying struggle, these hands suggest that our greatest strength lies in reaching toward one another.

Art does not always need to shock to be powerful. Sometimes, it simply needs to remind us that we belong to the same human story.

 

International Festival of Arabian Horses 2026 - Katara -exhibition of Ali Al-Ammar

 

Photos from the opening of Ali Al-Ammar’s exhibition, Symphony of Origin – The Sound of the Earth, part of the #Katara_International_Festival_Arabian_Horses 2026. The exhibition is held in Building 47, Hall 2 at #Katara.
📅 Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. until February 13, 2026.

 MORE  ABOUT  THIS  FESTIVAL 

An Earthquake We Didn’t Feel -15 hours ago -263 km drom Doha

 

pic.twitter.com/KNnArbP7cb

— أرصاد قطر (@qatarweather) February 1, 2026

 I was surprised to read about a 5.3‑magnitude earthquake in southwestern Iran this morning, about 263 km from Doha. At 8:11 AM, I was just preparing breakfast and didn’t notice a thing. Authorities confirm there’s no danger to Qatar.

Evening Harmonies in Al Bidda Park- 2026

 The weather is wonderful—this is the best time of year for walking in parks. While walking through Al Bidda Park, I met a few kitties asking for food. It seems they used to rely on a small restaurant that has since closed, and they’re too urban to hunt for themselves.

The yellow trumpetbush (Tecoma stans) is blooming in the park. Its sweet, nectar-like, honeyed scent always enchants me.

Among the bushes and trees, you can spot a traditional, slender minaret. At sunset, the call to prayer and the birds’ chirping blend together—a typical acoustic memory of Qatar that I will always cherish. Right in the heart of the city.

Rooted Nomad immersive exhibition - personal impressions

 If you love projected images, as I do, modern art, and the vibrant colors of India, then you must see the Rooted Nomad immersive exhibition about M. F. Husain.

He was an Indian artist born in rural India who went to the city with no money, determined to become an artist. At the very beginning, he even slept on the streets. Over time, he rose to become an internationally recognized modern artist.

Some of his paintings remind me of Picasso, which is why I privately call him “the Indian Picasso.” He was also incredibly versatile and intensely productive, creating more than 40,000 paintings during his lifetime.

At a certain point in his life, he gave up wearing shoes as an act of solidarity with those who could not afford any. He lived to the age of 95 and died in London as a citizen of Qatar.

Location: Qatar Museums Gallery, Katara, Building 10
Date: 28 October 2025 – 7 February 2026
Time: 09:00 am – 07:00 pm

Only one more week to see it! According to my experience, you can simply walk in and enjoy the immersive exhibition—there’s no need to buy tickets online.

GCC Security Forces Launch Joint Exercise “Arabian Gulf Security 4”

 The joint tactical exercise of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) security agencies, named Arabian Gulf Security 4, officially began on January  25  and will run until 4 February 2026.

This exercise brings together security forces from across the Gulf to enhance coordination, tactical readiness, and regional security. Such collaborations are vital for strengthening cooperation and preparedness in addressing emerging security challenges in the region.

The Ministry of Interior of Qatar shared the announcement on their official Facebook page, highlighting the importance of joint training and knowledge sharing among GCC nations.

This event underscores the commitment of Gulf countries to collective safety and rapid response capabilities.

 see  more here 

Unlicensed Doctors and Beauty Procedures: How to Stay Safe

   The Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has been very active lately, shutting down places where fake doctors were performing beauty procedures.

Just last week, news broke about a medical beauty surgery in which someone was posing as a doctor without holding a degree. Then, yesterday, five workers were caught working without proper permits or legal certification.

And today, it was confirmed that an entire dermatology section was shut down after authorities discovered that nurses were performing beauty laser procedures without a specialist present.

What a serious breach of the law!

Unfortunately, the names of the clinics involved have not been released. However, you can check whether a doctor is licensed by consulting the official Ministry list.

A simple rule: if a clinic is unwilling to share their specialists’ license information, don’t trust them. Your safety should always come first!

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1395158848718667&set=pcb.1395164922051393

Date varieties of the World

 

From the plush, caramel-rich Medjool of Morocco to the firm, nutty Deglet Noor of Algeria and the dark, "holy" Ajwa of Medina, the Middle East and North Africa offer hundreds of distinct date types that vary wildly in taste and texture. From syrupy and soft to dry and bread-like,… pic.twitter.com/zQRWZqp8Tr

— TasteAtlas (@TasteAtlas) January 24, 2026

Lunar New Year Meets Ramadan in 2026

✨ Fun Fact for 2026

It’s unusual for Lunar New Year and Ramadan to coincide, since both calendars are lunar but start from different cycles. This means February 2026 will be a “double lunar month”, rich with moon-themed cultural and spiritual significance. 🌕

 

Why This Year’s Food Festival Felt Different - my personal experience

 

I have been visiting food festivals in Qatar for many years now. I still remember the very beginning, when it was just a small event near an exhibition center. Over time, I watched it grow, year by year. My personal favorites were always the editions held at MIA Park — open space, greenery, sea breeze, and room to breathe. Those festivals felt relaxed, welcoming, and truly enjoyable for families.

Unfortunately, this year’s festival was not our favorite — to put it mildly.

The location was near a stadium, surrounded by concrete, with no trees and no grassy areas where children could run freely. It took place in January, when the weather can be unexpectedly cold, which already made the experience less pleasant. But the most disturbing issue was the overcrowding.

The fenced area designated for the festival was simply not large enough for the number of visitors. Moving around was extremely difficult. Exploring the stalls, browsing freely, or just enjoying the atmosphere felt almost impossible. Dear readers, as in previous years, I would have loved to share a rich festival experience — but this time, it was hard even to walk around, let alone explore.

When I saw the crowd in front of a Thai restaurant, I genuinely wondered how people could wait that long for a single dish. Then I noticed a café with an equally impressive line. However, the longest queue of all was in front of the ladies’ toilets — with a minimum waiting time of half an hour.

I honestly don’t know whether the organizers considered that such facilities are not optional extras. These are urgent necessities, especially at a food festival, and certainly not something people should have to wait 30 minutes for.

We quickly bought some street food from Polka — mainly because there was no queue — and decided to escape to the metro. Ironically, even the metro toilets were overcrowded, with a waiting time of 10–15 minutes. At that point, the best solution seemed obvious: we went home.

The festival may have offered beautiful programs, fireworks, drone shows, and wonderful gastronomic adventures. But when basic needs are not properly provided — space to move and sufficient toilets — the overall experience becomes stressful rather than enjoyable.

And that is a real pity.

---

A festival should be a celebration, not an endurance test !

Luxury Desert escape - Qgrabs Deal

 

Walking through the Amber Exhibition 2026 – Katara

 

I would rather call it an international amber fair.
Sellers from many countries filled Katara Hall with their stalls for three days.
This was already the sixth year the fair has been held, and its international character was clearly felt.

I expected to see a lot of jewelry, women, and luxury items. There were a few, but they were not the focus.
The real stars of the event were the amber rosaries.

The buyers were mostly men — locals and visitors from the Gulf. The rosaries were not expensive, priced between 12 and 55 QAR. People took their time choosing them: watching, touching, feeling the amber carefully before making a selection.

Amber stones comes in many different colors and shapes.
They were  displayed, and some of them were also for sale.

The antique pieces were my favorites. I saw Art Deco clocks  embedded in amber or decorated with amber intarsia. Everyday objects were also seen— key chains, mini chess boards, and other small items, all enriched with amber details.

I also saw necklaces made of large amber beads in different colors. They looked especially striking — probably best suited to tall women. There were also small cufflinks, made of silver and amber, crafted in Poland. I even noticed a few signet rings  set with amber.

Horses, camels, and dhow (sail) boats sculpted in amber were also on display. However, the falcon — a powerful regional symbol — was by far the most common and popular amber decorative object at the fair.

It was a truly interesting experience. Amber is a mysterious kind of “stone,” and it is clearly appreciated and collected by many people in this region.

Qatar Kite Festival 2026

 

The Qatar Kite Festival 2026 returns this January, bringing colour, creativity, and outdoor fun. 🤩
🎟️ Free Entry
📍 Location: Old Doha Port
📅 When: 15 - 24 January 2026
⏰3pm to 10pm Weekdays
⏰10am to 10pm Weekends pic.twitter.com/QfkfmHxgQV

— KidsLoveQatar (@KidsLoveQatarQA) January 15, 2026

Old Doha Port at night Poster

Old Doha Port at night
by almawad

This stunning square photo poster captured by Alma Wad showcases the beautifully reconstructed Old Doha Port as it stands in the year 2024. The intricate details of traditional architecture are highlighted against a backdrop adorned with a mesmerizing string of lights, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Perfect for enthusiasts of Middle Eastern architecture, those who appreciate the charm of traditional lifestyles, and anyone longing for the enchanting allure of Arabian nights.

 

How to get to the international Food Festival 2026 - by Doha metro

 

Heading to the Qatar International Food Festival?
Hop on #DohaMetro! Ride to Ras Abu Aboud Station and enjoy a short stroll to the iconic 974 Stadium.

Doha Metro is your ticket to flavour! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/atLeNNxbJW

— Doha Metro & Lusail Tram (@metrotram_qa) January 14, 2026

Statement by the Ministry of Interior - Qatar

 

Statement by the Ministry of Interior in the light of regional developments.#MOIQatar pic.twitter.com/K2Iab7gUcW

— Ministry of Interior - Qatar (@MOI_QatarEn) January 14, 2026

Qatar's Ministry of Interior issued a press release on January 14, 2026, affirming ongoing precautionary measures for public safety amid unspecified regional developments, emphasizing coordination with authorities and reliance on official information sources.

 

Beethoven’s piano concertos in the hands Rudolf Buchbinder,29 January -Katara Opera house

 

Experience Beethoven’s piano concertos in the hands Rudolf Buchbinder, one of today’s foremost Beethoven interpreters, joins the Qatar Philharmonic to perform three towering works, the sparkling Concerto No. 2, the poetic Concerto No. 4, and the dramatic Concerto No. 3. pic.twitter.com/DUhxi0aFE7

— Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (@qatar_phil) January 13, 2026

New Era of private tutoring in Qatar

  For years, private tuition was illegal in Qatar. I don’t remember exactly when or how it all started, but it is now permitted again.

Private tuition had thrived in the past because there were no regulations. Not everyone was qualified to teach, and there were some issues, but then it was suddenly outlawed, which came as a real surprise.

Now, years later, private tutors can openly apply to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) in Qatar for a license.

The exact prerequisites are not entirely clear, but applicants must demonstrate academic knowledge, good conduct, and hold a valid residence visa.

Still, this feels far better than a complete ban.

 check out the licence  here 

Qatar MoPH Cracks Down on Unlicensed Cosmetic Practitioners

 The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) announced that two foreign nationals were arrested for offering cosmetic medical services without proper licenses. They were identified through monitoring social media advertisements and are now facing legal action, including deportation and a ban from reentering Qatar. The Ministry emphasized its commitment to public safety by ensuring that all healthcare services are provided by licensed practitioners in accredited facilities. Members of the public were urged not to be misled by unverified social media promotions and to always check practitioners’ credentials. MoPH also highlighted that healthcare licenses can be verified through its official service, and any unlicensed practices should be reported via email.

Qatar Public Health Alert: Certain Nestlé Baby Formula Recalled

 The Ministry of Public Health has warned consumers about specific batches of Nestlé infant formula due to suspected contamination with a harmful toxin. Parents are urged to return or dispose of the affected products immediately to protect their children. The Ministry acted quickly by recalling the products, seizing remaining stock, and coordinating with retailers, pharmacies, and inspection teams. Samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and market checks are ongoing to ensure all affected items are removed. No illnesses have been reported so far, and updates will be announced as soon as new information becomes available.

 see the list here 

Antique auction at Katara

 Did you know there’s a weekly antique auction at Katara?

Antique Square, near Building 47, hosts the Katara Antiques and Collectibles Auction every Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, offering a truly distinctive heritage atmosphere.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1261805815769901&set=pcb.1261805912436558

Numbers in Qatar -250 thousand people

 More than 250,000 spectators gathered along Lusail Boulevard to witness Qatar’s largest fireworks show.Lusail Boulevard hosted a major event to mark the end of the year.

Lusail Boulevard - spectacular night

 

Lusail hosted a spectacular night adorned with dazzling fireworks and drone show at Lusail Boulevard

استضافت لوسيل ليلة رائعة زينت بعرض مدهش للألعاب النارية و الدرون في درب لوسيل#Lusail #Thatsmyaddress pic.twitter.com/PTVVFxng6E

— VisitLusail (@Visit_Lusail) January 5, 2026

Amber exhibition at Katara - Kahraman

Amber is not a gemstone; rather, it is fossilized tree resin that dates back millions of years.
When ancient trees secreted this resin, it sometimes trapped insects or small plants. Over time, the resin was buried and gradually hardened, which is why some pieces of amber contain… 

 

Qatar is famous for heat — but it also has cold records.

The lowest temperature ever recorded in Qatar dropped to about 1.5°C during a rare winter cold spell.It was  in   in February 2017  This happened inland, away from the coast, where desert nights cool very fast.

.8 °C — 1964: The previous historic low recorded in Mesaieed before the 2017 record.

4 °C — 2025: A very cold winter morning in Abu Samra, one of the lowest that season. 

6 °C — 2026: Mesaieed logged a chilly low at the start of January. 

On some winter mornings, temperatures can fall to 5–8°C, which feels cold in a country built for heat. Shops suddenly sell coats, socks, heaters, and blankets, and people change their daily habits.

These cold days don’t last long, but they surprise everyone.
Even in the desert, Qatar can get cold — just quietly.

When Qatar Gets Cold - Lifestyle in winter

 Qatar is often described as “too hot to live in,” but that impression usually comes from looking only at summer. The reality is far more balanced — and for many residents, surprisingly pleasant.

From mid-November until the end of March, Qatar enjoys its best weather. Daytime temperatures are typically well below 30 °C, often sitting comfortably in the low- to mid-20s. Evenings are mild, outdoor seating is full, and walking along the Corniche or through parks becomes part of everyday life again.

This five-month stretch is not an exception — it is a reliable seasonal pattern. Winter mornings can be cool, sometimes even chilly by local standards, while afternoons remain bright and comfortable. Humidity is low, skies are clear, and rain, when it comes, is brief and refreshing rather than disruptive.

This is also when life in Qatar truly opens up. Outdoor cafés, beaches, markets, festivals, and sports events fill the calendar. Residents spend more time outside, children play longer in parks, and the city feels calmer and more human. For many expats and locals alike, this is when Qatar is at its most enjoyable.

Yes, summers are intense — no one denies that. But reducing Qatar’s climate to summer heat alone creates a false and incomplete picture. Nearly half the year offers weather that many cities around the world would consider ideal.

The truth is simple: Qatar is not hot all year. For months at a time, it is sunny, mild, and genuinely comfortable — a season that defines daily life far more than outsiders realize.