What to do in Doha - Latest News

A week-long break is coming up in Qatar, as the country announces the Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday dates for the public sector. According to a statement from the Amiri Diwan, the holiday will begin on March 17 and continue until March 23, 2026. Public sector employees across ministries, authorities, and other government bodies will be off during this period, with work set to resume on March 24. For many people working in Qatar’s public sector, the announcement means a full week-long break during Eid Al Fitr. These dates apply to ministries and public institutions across the country. The schedule...

If your child has been asking to use WhatsApp, a new feature coming in the next few months may ease the concerns about the safety of the app. WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for kids under 13. The feature lets younger users stay in touch with family and friends while parents keep control over the account’s privacy and communication settings. How Parent-managed WhatsApp Accounts Work With this feature, a parent or guardian can create and supervise the account for a kids under 13. Only adults aged 18 or older can manage the setup. Here's what parents can manage: decide who is...

As Ramadan enters its final stretch, many Muslims begin preparing for one of the most meaningful traditions of the holy month: i‘tikaf. This spiritual retreat usually takes place during the last ten nights of Ramadan, when worshippers spend extended time in a mosque focusing on prayer, reflection and reading the Qur’an. In Qatar, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has shared a reminder of the key rules for i‘tikaf this year. People planning to take part are also encouraged to review the religious principles of i‘tikaf and follow proper mosque etiquette throughout their stay. The ministry also highlighted the...

If you rely on food delivery a little too often (no judgment), here's something you want to know about. Deliveroo has announced it is shutting down operations in Qatar, with the service set to end on March 4. After that date, you won’t be able to place orders through the app. If it’s been one of your go-to apps, now’s the time to start checking alternatives. The decision comes as competition across the Gulf’s delivery market continues to intensify. Right now, Talabat remains the dominant platform in Qatar. It has been operating for years and has built a large network...

If you’ve ever wanted to see some of the biggest names in football without flying across continents, this is your moment. Qatar Football Festival 2026 is bringing top international teams to Doha this March. After the success of the 2022 World Cup, the country is once again turning its stadiums into the centre of global football. Here’s your guide to the dates, teams, and schedule of matches, so you can start planning. Qatar Football Festival 2026 is a week-long international football event taking place in Doha from March 26 to 31. The idea is simple: bring major national teams to...

Qatar has officially announced the start of Ramadan 2026! Following the moon sighting, the holy month will begin on Wednesday, February 18. This marks the beginning of a time for reflection, spiritual growth, and a sense of unity for Muslims across the country. Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, and it's a time for increased devotion, acts of charity, and a stronger connection to faith. During this period, daily life in Qatar changes. Communities across the country will gather to share meals and prayers, and special events and places set up for the public. To make the...

There are big concerts… and then there are Shakira concerts, the kind people travel for, talk about for years, and regret missing the second tickets sell out. And now, that level of global pop energy is landing in Doha at 974 Stadium on November 18. Shakira isn’t just a chart-topper, she’s one of the most influential pop artists of our time. Her live shows are famous for being explosive, emotional, and wildly fun all at once. Fans can expect a set packed with era-defining hits like "Hips Don’t Lie", "Whenever, Wherever", "Waka Waka", "She Wolf", and "La Tortura", the kind...

Primark is about to make a big splash in the GCC, with plans to expand into two more countries. The brand is officially heading to Bahrain and Qatar, with new stores opening by the end of 2026. From everyday wear to homeware, cosmetics, and seasonal décor, Primark is all about offering quality products at accessible prices. You've probably seen those unpacking videos on social media; well, now those great finds are coming your way! Bahrain will get its first Primark at City Centre Bahrain later this year; and Qatar will open its first store at Doha Festival City by the...

If you’re in Doha this week, you probably feel the city buzzing a little differently. The sold-out Doha Marathon 2026 is almost here, and even if you’re not running, it’s one of those events that’s worth knowing about. Here’s everything about the big race, from routes to the race kit pickup and what to expect. Thursday, January 15 is all about the community runs. From mid-afternoon onward, Blue Race, also known as Autism Run, and Kids’ Fun Run will take place, bringing families, supporters, and plenty of good energy to the course. Friday, January 16 is when the main races...

Looking for an adventure the whole family will love? Head over to the National Museum of Qatar and check out the new 'Lehmesa: Return by Moonlight' exhibition. It's an immersive experience focusing on the endangered Hawksbill turtle, the only sea turtle species that nests on Qatar’s beaches. Your little ones will be captivated by the audiovisual displays, hands-on activities, and all the fascinating facts they can explore about these incredible creatures. View this post on Instagram A post shared by National Museum of Qatar (@nmoqatar) The exhibition is open until February 7 at the National Museum of Qatar. It's the...