Qatar National Sports Day falls on the 9th of February this year with ministries, institutions and private companies gearing up for an active national holiday.

National Sports Day in Qatar is celebrated every year on the second Tuesday of February following an Emiri Decree No. 80 for the year 2011 that was issued by Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on December 6, 2011.

Like every year, Qatari authorities are encouraging residents to get out of their homes and get involved in the many sports activites happening around the country.

Here are some activities that you should definitely check out on Tuesday, February 9th if you're in the mood for some sports and physical activities.

Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival will be one of the biggest attractions this year for National Sports Day. The venue is all set for this spectacular event and residents are more than welcome to join and maybe learn something about this Chinese tradition.

Just be prepared to watch some of the best Qatar dragon boat clubs compete on Tuesday morning at the Katara Cultural Village - beach 12. The competition is expected to start around 10am and will conclude around 4.30pm.

Qatar Living is the official media partner for this event, so make sure you come by to say hello to the QL Team.

Other activities at Katara Cultural Village

An overwhelming number of activities will be taking place at Katara Esplanade including water sports, contests and competitions, health education programs, live shows and sports exhibitions.

For more info, please visit www.katara.net

Aspire Zone

Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) will host a number of events such as Fun Run, Family Bike Fun, Zumba, Wall Climbing, Come and Try and Judo Training for the National Sport Day. Read more...

Qatar Foundation

As always, Qatar Foundation has planned a slew of activities this year for the general public. Activities will place at the Student Center and the newly-built Oxygen Park in Education City (near male student housing). Here's their full list of events:

Stay healthy this sports day with special offers from 47 hotels in Qatar

Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) has finalised agreements with 47 members of the hospitality industry to offer Qatar’s residents and visitors health packages as the country celebrates National Sport Day this Tuesday, 9th February.

Residents can take advantage of the offers and enjoy healthier meals, discounted gym memberships and even free access to gyms and swimming pools. Find out more...

As you can see, there is a lot happening this year for National Sports Day. We encourage all QLers to get off the couch and participate in these activities. Stay healthy!

Cover image courtesy: Glynne J Pitchard