Doha, Qatar: From flavour-packed food festivals and family-friendly outdoor attractions to live music and high-energy sporting events, Qatar’s weekend calendar continues to deliver memorable days for everyone. Several popular events are carrying on into the weekend, while new events are set to draw crowds across the capital region and beyond.
Residents and visitors should keep an eye on the weather. With cool winter evenings, it’s a good idea to grab a jacket or cap and enjoy some time outdoors.
So, readers, bundle up as you head out to enjoy what’s happening in and around Qatar.
Qatar International Food Festival 2026
A spectacular fireworks performance during the opening ceremony of the 15th Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) at Stadium 974. Photo by Rajan Vadakkemuriyil / The Peninsula
Until January 24, 2026
Weekdays: 4pm – 11pm | Weekends: 3pm – 1am
974 Stadium Precinct
One of the country’s most anticipated annual events, the 15th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) continues to celebrate global flavours and culinary creativity.
Visitors can explore diverse food zones, enjoy live cooking demonstrations, take part in interactive workshops and experience family-friendly entertainment. Live performances and themed zones add to the lively atmosphere, making it a popular evening destination for families and friends.
For more details, click here: Link
Qatar Kite Festival 2026
A view of the kite festival on the evening of January 11, 2026, as colourful kites fill the sky. Photo by Vishnu Prasad KS / The Peninsula
Until January 24, 2026
Weekdays: 3pm – 10pm | Weekends: 10am – 10pm
Old Doha Port
Colourful skies and festive waterfront vibes continue at Old Doha Port as the Qatar Kite Festival runs alongside family-oriented weekend activities. The event features professional kite teams from around the world, synchronised flying displays, giant character kites and artistic aerial performances.
Complementing the kite shows are street food pop-ups, live entertainment, children’s play areas and waterfront leisure experiences, making it a complete destination for families and visitors of all ages.
For more details, click here: Link
Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) 2026
Until January 22, 2026 (Final day)
9am – 5pm
Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC)
Thursday is your last chance to explore latest innovations in defence and security technologies exhibited at the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) on at QNCC.
As part of this event are visiting warships from international navies that remain open to the public at Hamad Port from 9:30am to 5pm.
For more details, click here: Link
Qatar- UAE Super Cup 2026
January 22 – 24, 2026
Various Timings
Thrilling regional football matchups are set to take centre stage with Qatar–UAE Super Cup matches scheduled in Doha during the weekend, featuring leading clubs from both countries competing in high-profile fixtures.
Tickets are available online through official platforms. More details and ticket booking: Tickets
Fuel Fest Qatar 2026
January 23, 2026
1pm – 11pm
Katara, Doha
FuelFest makes its Qatar debut, bringing an internationally recognised automotive and lifestyle festival to Doha. The event features supercars, customised vehicles, drifting displays, live music and entertainment, attracting car enthusiasts and families alike.
Tickets are available online. More details and tickets: Link
Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival 2026
Until January 27, 2026
Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif hosts the 2026 Equestrian Festival, bringing together owners, breeders and fans of purebred Arabian horses in a traditional setting.
The festival opens with the 7th Souq Waqif International Championship for Purebred Arabian Horses (Category A), followed by children’s heritage competitions on January 23. The programme continues with the 15th Qatar International Championship for Purebred Arabian Peninsula Horses (Category S) from January 24 to 26, before concluding with the Purebred Arabian Horse Auction (Beauty Category) on January 27.
For more details, click here: Link
Nickelodeon SpongeBob SquarePants Live
Until January 31, 2026
Under the Sea Activation: 2pm – 10pm | Live Stage Shows: 4pm, 6pm, 8:30pm
Oasis Stage, Mall of Qatar
Join SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends for an exciting under-the-sea adventure filled with live stage shows, meet-and-greet sessions and fun-filled activities for the whole family. Children and families can enjoy interactive experiences, snap photos with their favourite characters and soak up the lively atmosphere.
To participate and meet the characters, visitors need to present a receipt worth QR150 from any store at Mall of Qatar. Access is limited to 20 families per show and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more details, click here: Link
Doha Fencing Grand Prix 2026
January 23 – 24, 2026
Starts 8am
Aspire Dome
Elite fencers from around the world compete at the Doha Fencing Grand Prix, part of the international fencing calendar. The event offers fast-paced, high-level competition across multiple disciplines.
For more details, click here: Link
Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026
January 24, 2026
3pm - 9pm
Aspire Park
Strength and endurance take centre stage as Qatar’s top athletes compete in the Qatar’s Strongest Man event. Featuring classic strongman challenges, the outdoor competition offers a high-energy spectacle for spectators and families.
For more details, click here: Link
Ashara: A Decade of Musical Journey
January 23, 2026
1st show: 2pm – 4pm | 2nd show: 6pm – 8pm
Auditorium 3, Qatar National Convention Centre
Ashara: A Decade of Musical Journey marks the 10th anniversary of the Maharlikans Vocal Ensemble Philippines, celebrating a decade of musical excellence, cultural pride and artistic growth.
The concert features a rich and diverse repertoire of choral, contemporary and Filipino-inspired works, highlighting the ensemble’s evolution and musical achievements over the years.
For more details, click here: Link
Abeer Nehme Live in Qatar
January 23, 2026
From 8pm onwards
U VENUE, Doha
Renowned singer Abeer Nehme brings her powerful voice to Doha for a live concert featuring a captivating mix of beloved classics and her latest releases.
Known for her emotional depth and musical versatility, the performance promises an evening of expressive vocals and memorable live music for fans and music lovers.
More details and tickets: Link
Khaled Abdulrahman at Sealine Nights
From 8pm; doors open 6:30pm
January 23, 2026
Sealine
This special concert brings one of the region’s most beloved voices to Sealine Circuit Sports Club in Mawater for an evening of live music in a unique desert setting. Expect a warm, atmospheric performance filled with signature melodies and timeless favourites as Sealine Nights continues its series of standout regional shows.
The open-air experience is elevated with dazzling fireworks that light up the night sky. Book your tickets now and be part of a memorable night under the stars.
More details and tickets: Link
Ennat Toyota Off-Roading Activation at Sealine
Until January 31, 2026
Thursday & Saturday: 11am – 11pm | Friday: 12pm – 12am
Sealine Beach Road, Mesaieed
Ennat Toyota hosts Qatar’s first dedicated off-roading activation, offering visitors a hands-on experience with Toyota and Lexus SUVs across challenging desert terrains.
Guided by expert instructors, participants can test advanced off-road technologies through specially designed obstacles that showcase vehicle strength, control and comfort. The activation is open to the public and free to attend.
For more details, click here: Link
