Qatar National Day is annually celebrated on 18 December, marking the unity of the country. However, this year’s observance will take on a unique dimension in solidarity with Palestine.
On November 20, 2023, HH The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, issued a directive to defer the National Day celebrations. This pertains specifically to the customary National Day parade and fireworks on the Doha Corniche. While certain activities have been cancelled during the national day, the following events and activities are still open for participation.
Please note that this listing will be regularly updated. Bookmark this page and don’t miss any updates.
EXPO 2023
The Expo site blossomed into an experience of innovation, sustainability, sharing, culture and entertainment, welcoming the world to an event ready to make history. Expo 2023 Doha is set to make history as the first A1 International Horticultural Exhibition in Qatar, the Middle East, and North Africa. As Qatar National Day approaches, EXPO 2023 is gearing up to offer an array of enjoyable activities for you and your family.
When: 10 to 18 December
Where: Al Bidda Park, in the heart of Doha a few steps away from Corniche Street situated between West Bay and Doha Port.
DOHA LIGHTS FESTIVAL 2023
The Public Works Authority “Ashghal”, Qatar Tourism, and Qatar Museums, in cooperation with Expo 2023 are organizing the “Doha Lights Festival 2023 Under the slogan “Qatar between the past and the present”
When: Until 31 December
Where: Al Masrah Park The Lighting Festival can be reached through the Doha Metro Corniche station.
DARB AL SAAI 2023
Ministry of Culture
Darb Al Saai, known as the ‘Route of the Messenger,’ is a lively celebration dedicated to Qatar National Day. It’s the prime location for a diverse range of events honouring this significant occasion, drawing in HH The Amir, other royals, and a multitude of visitors. Relocated to Umm Salal Mohammed in December 2022, the sprawling 150,000 sq m venue replicates an old Qatari village. Lasting around 10 days surrounding National Day, it hosts cultural happenings like music, henna art, horseback riding, and falconry in traditional-style tents. The site also boasts food, drink, and shopping stalls. Ministries like the Ministry of Interior and major entities such as Qatar Rail, Mwani Qatar, Ashghal, Ooredoo, Vodafone, and Qatar Foundation participate with interactive displays and activities in large tents for visitors.
When: 10 to 18 December from 3 pm to 11 pm
Where: Umm Salal Mohamad
FREE and open to everyone!
QATAR BALLOON FESTIVAL 4TH EDITION
Qatar Balloon Festival
The Qatar Balloon Festival is a popular annual event in Doha. This 4th edition will feature 50 hot air balloons from all over the world. This spectacular event is intended to attract even more visitors and make Qatar a must-visit global destination for hot air balloon enthusiasts. Enjoy live entertainment, international street food, night glow shows and much more!
When: until 18 December
Where: Hot air balloons will take off from Katara and other locations.
In addition, residents will witness a daily program of giant kites flying in the sky from 2:30 pm to 4 pm.
In the evening, the Hot Air Balloons will start tethered flights from 4 pm to 7 pm, followed by a daily Night Glow Show. In addition, roaming parades will provide plentiful entertainment for guests.
QATAR SPORTS FOR ALL FEDERATION (QSFA) CLASSIC
Qatar Sports For All Federation
The inaugural QSFA CLASSIC will take place at 5/6 Park on Monday 18 December and comprise of distances ranging from 800M to 10K. All events will be run on accurately measured short courses with multiple laps and will be restricted to a maximum of 250 participants.
When: 18 December from 7 am onwards
Where: 5/6 Park- Nearest metro station: Al Qassar Metro Station
TICKET DETAILS:
Adults (17 years old and above)- QAR60
Juniors( 7-16 years old)- QAR60
Mini Kids (3-6 years old)- QAR60
START TIMES
- 10K Male & Female (Open & Masters): 7 am.
- 5K Male & Female (Open & Masters): 7 am.
- 3K Male & Female (Open & Masters): 7:05 am.
- 3K Male & Female (Juniors): 7:08 am.
- 800M Male & Female (Mini Kids): 8:10 am.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR
National Museum of Qatar
Join the National Day activities at the National Museum of Qatar
Activities for all age groups, span from welcoming hospitality and culinary adventures to the nostalgic aroma of the past in our contemporary lifestyle.
When: 15 and 16 December 2023 from 3 pm to 7 pm
Where: National Museum of Qatar
Open to the public but may require pre-registration.
THE PEARL QATAR
Experience the unique cultural richness and unity of Qatari heritage in a welcoming ambience at The Pearl Island. Embrace the warmth of Qatari traditions during Qatar National Day in this exceptional setting.
When: 14 to 18 December from 4 pm to 10 pm
Where: Qanat Quartier and Porto Arabia (opposite Corinthia Yacht Club)
QATAR NATIONAL LIBRARY
Qatar National Library
Featuring several cultural, educational and artistic community activities.
- QNL Engage Podcast: Rhythms of the Sea- Music and Diving in Qatar (10 Dec) in Arabic
- Little Weavers: Colors of the Qatari Flag (11 Dec) in English and Arabic
- Al-Sadu: Traditional Qatari Weaving ( 13 Dec) – In Arabic with English Interpretation
- From the memory of private collections in Qatar: Al Jaber Family Collection ( 16 Dec) In Arabic and English
- QNL Engage Podcast: The Lives of Gulf Women During the Pearl Diving Season ( 17 Dec) In Arabic
Where: Qatar National Library
Open to the public but may require pre-registration.
MSHEIREB
Msheireb Market
This weekend, join the Msheireb Market with your family and friends at Msheireb’s outdoor market and feel the national spirit of QND at Sikkat Wadi Msheireb from 14 to 18 December 2023
When: 14 to 18 December from 4 pm to 10 pm
Where: At Sikkat Wadi Msheireb
For more updates and information, visit Musheireb Properties
SPECIAL MARKET DAY
Torba Farmers Market
The seasonal Torba Market is one of the most popular spots for local and natural produce and authentic handmade items. Join Torba Farmers Market this Qatar National Day in sharing and showcasing Palestinian Culture as resistance A day of solidarity through Artisanal Palestinian and Local Food, Products, Workshops, Spoken Words Poetry, Live Music and Fundraising.
When: 10 to 18 December from 3 pm to 11 pm
Where: Torba Farmers Market Education City
For more updates and information, visit Special Market Day
SWIM AND JUMP ON QATAR NATIONAL DAY
National Cruise Company
It is the Countdown for the day our beloved country was announced to be!
It has been 145 years since then and the National Cruise Company is proud to be a part of its development and flourish. Embrace your love for this country on board one of our authentic dhows with our special National Day decoration on the Swim and Jump trip.
When: 18 December from 2 pm to 7 pm
Where: The meeting point will be on Box Park Qatar
Ticket prices:
Adult- QAR115
Kids(5-10 years old)- QAR58
Kids(0-4 years old)- FREE
For more updates and information, visit National Cruise Company
CITY CENTER DOHA MALL
City Center is one of Qatar’s largest and oldest shopping centres. Offering experiences for everyone. Join the daily festivities at City Center Doha for Qatar National Day, until the 19 December! Families are welcome to participate in a variety of fun activities.
When: until 19 December
Where: City Center Doha Mall, The mall can be reached by metro through DECC Station.
For more updates and information, visit City Center Doha
AL HAZM MALL
Stay tuned for an extraordinary blend of entertainment and unforgettable experiences.
When: 18 December
Where: Al Hazm in Al Markhiya
FREE and open to the public
For more updates and information, visit Al Hazm
MALL OF QATAR
Enjoy a variety of traditional and cultural activities at the Mall of Qatar this National Day! From face painting to flag giveaways, traditional Mascots, Henna & much more!
When: 18 December
Where: Mall of Qatar Rawdat Al Jahhaniya district of Al Rayyan. If you’re going to use the Metro, take the Green Line and head to Al Riffa – Mall of Qatar Station. Trains run approximately every 5 minutes
For more updates and information, visit Mall of Qatar
PLACE VENDOME QATAR
Engage in boat-making workshops, explore the art of calligraphy, henna, and palm weaving, and capture unforgettable moments at our photo booth. Grab your loved ones and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
When:
14 to 17 December from 4 pm to 10 pm
18 December from 2 pm to 8 pm
Where: Canal Floor, Ground Floor, First Floor, St. Germain -Second Floor Place Vendome Qatar. You can reach the Vendome through the Metro Red line arrive at Legtaifiya Metro Station and take the Lusail Tram on the Orange Line to Lusail Central Station. This station exit is located right outside the mall.
For more updates and information, visit Place Vendome Qatar
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