TLDR:
Qatar prepares for a vibrant event season
WISH, Ajyal Film, and F1 headline November
Doha Forum and Beach Tour Finals in December
DOHA (The Thursday Times) — Qatar is gearing up for a packed calendar of events as the year winds down, further solidifying its reputation as a premier global destination for sports, culture, and dialogue. Following a record-breaking 2024 that saw international visitor numbers soar by 26%, the country remains committed to drawing even more tourists through a host of carefully curated experiences. Qatar Tourism’s roadmap, outlined earlier this year, continues to drive this growth, with the Qatar Calendar now featuring an exceptional winter line-up that promises something for everyone.
As the temperature cools, Qatar’s winter-sun appeal enters full effect. Major international and regional events will transform Doha into a hub of excitement. From the world of sports to innovative global discussions, the upcoming months encapsulate Qatar’s strategic aim to blend tourism with cultural enrichment.
Wish 2024: health and resilience
The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation, will take place on 13–14 November under the theme ‘Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience’. More than 3,000 healthcare experts and policymakers will converge to tackle critical health challenges. The summit will foster dialogue on conflict-driven healthcare needs and the role of innovation in building more resilient systems worldwide. As a centre of international health debate, WISH reflects Qatar’s commitment to positioning itself as a catalyst for global change in healthcare.
Ajyal Film Festival: a cinematic return
The return of the Ajyal Film Festival from 16–23 November brings cinema enthusiasts a week of diverse storytelling. After a hiatus since 2022, this year’s edition will be bigger than ever, offering a platform for films from various genres and age groups. The Feature Film and Short Film competitions promise to captivate audiences, while the Made in Qatar programme will showcase local talent. This celebration of cinematic art seeks to engage audiences beyond entertainment, sparking conversations around cultural identity and global perspectives.
Katara Traditional Dhow Festival: maritime heritage
Running from 27 November to 7 December, the 14th Katara Traditional Dhow Festival will pay tribute to Qatar’s rich maritime past. Through cultural exhibitions, performances, and educational initiatives, the event will highlight the nation’s pearl diving and seafaring legacy. Situated at Katara Cultural Village, the festival will allow visitors to experience firsthand the significance of Qatar’s nautical traditions. It serves as a reminder of how the country’s history is deeply intertwined with the sea, even as it strides forward into a high-tech future.
High-stakes sports: boxing, F1, and beach volleyball
Misfits Boxing arrives on 28 November, marking a new chapter for Qatar as it hosts crossover boxing matches. Founded by YouTuber KSI, the event will feature influencer-driven bouts in the Lusail Sports Arena. On 29 November, adrenaline levels will spike as the Formula One Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix takes over the Lusail International Circuit. As the penultimate race of the 2024 season, this F1 event will draw global attention, with fans flocking to witness the drivers’ final attempts to secure championship glory. In mid-December, volleyball enthusiasts will enjoy the Volleyball World Beach Tour Finals from 13–16 December, as the world’s elite players compete in Doha, cementing the nation’s role as a leading destination for premier beach sports.
Doha Forum: innovation and governance
The Doha Forum, scheduled for 7–8 December, will bring together some of the world’s most influential thought leaders to explore ‘The Innovation Imperative’. Known as a hub for intellectual debate, the forum will discuss how innovation can revolutionise governance and solve complex international challenges. Attendees, including high-profile diplomats and global experts, will engage in conversations about reshaping systems to respond more effectively to the world’s pressing needs.
A fitting national day finale
The year’s crowning event will be the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final on 18 December, coinciding with Qatar National Day. The match promises to deliver thrilling football action, with UEFA Champions League champions Real Madrid set to compete. This high-stakes game at the intersection of tradition and modernity will draw worldwide attention, marking a celebratory end to an exceptional year for Qatar. As fireworks light up the Doha sky, visitors and residents alike will witness the culmination of a well-orchestrated calendar that has positioned Qatar as a frontrunner in global tourism and event hosting.
