Qatar’s exciting line-up of events for 2023
Having hosted the World Cup last year, Qatar is now on everyone’s radar as an excellent destination to host major events. Carrying on the excitement of the World Cup, Qatar has taken the initiative to host a series of local and global events for everyone.
From a colorful balloon festival to a thrilling F1 Sprint race, here is a list of exciting events you can look forward to in 2023.
Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (Marmi Festival)
The 14th edition of the Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (popularly known as Marmi), is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the region. Organized by the Al Gannas Association, the festival which kicked-off on January 1, aims to document and promote the heritage sport of falconry.
Date: January 1 – January 28
Location: Sabkat Marmi in Sealine
Qatar Balloon Festival
Featuring over 50 hot air balloons from around the world over 10 days, the festival will play host to a series of unique events including sunrise balloon launches and tethered flights. The festival will also include live entertainment and a special arena featuring games and activities for children.
Date: January 19 – January 28
Location: Old Doha Port (external green area, behind Grand Terminal)
Timings: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Ooredoo Doha Marathon
Pick your preferred running category and join the Ooredoo Doha Marathon to run alongside elite athletes from around the world. The marathon this year will include new routes and exciting entertainment for everyone.
Date: January 20
For more information about routes and tickets visit the Ooredoo website
Katara International Arabian Horse Festival
The third edition of the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival (KIAHF) featuring some of the finest pure-bred Arabian horses is scheduled to take place in under three segments including the Arabian Peninsula Horse Show, The Arabian Horse Auction and the Title Show. The festival will also include a number of competitions and events such as the poetry competition, horse parade, equine stamps and photography exhibition and light show on the Katara esplanade and amphitheater.
Date: February 1 – February 11
Location: Katara Cultural Village grounds
Doha Jewelry and Watches Exhibition
The 19th edition of the Doha Jewelry & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) will feature luxury watches, necklaces, rings, earrings, diamonds, gold and silverware from more than 500 international watch and jewelry brands and Qatari designers. The annual event is highly anticipated by jewelry and watch enthusiasts, as it is an opportunity to explore the latest trends in watch and jewelry brands.
Date: February 20 – February 25
Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC)
ITT (Institute of Travel Tourism) Conference
The prestigious ITT Conference is set to take center stage in Qatar and will feature conference sessions, social activities and networking opportunities for ITT Members and senior figures from the United Kingdom (UK) travel and tourism industry. In addition to ITT Members, the conference is also open to tour operators, travel agencies, airlines, hoteliers, cruise lines, tourist offices and other specialists working within the travel and tourism sector.
Date: June 5 – June 7
Location: Waldorf Astoria Lusail
Pre-registration is required to attend. Visit the ITT website for more information.
AFC Asian CupTM
The 18th edition of the AFC Asian CupTM organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will kick-off in Qatar this year. Having won the AFC Asian CupTM in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2019, Qatar is currently the reigning AFC champion and is the first country to be hosting the event for the third time.
Date: June 16 – July 16
Shop Qatar 2023
The third edition of Qatar’s biggest shopping festival will return this year with huge discounts at leading retail outlets, prizes, performances and fashion-forward events. The festival will also include fashion master classes, live concerts, cultural experiences and more.
Date: September (tentative)
Formula 1 - Qatar Grand Prix
The Formula 1 cars are all set to make a thrilling comeback this year at the Lusail International Circuit. Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit, is one of six venues to host the F1 sprint races planned for the Formula 1 Grand Prix this year.
Date: October 6 – October 8
Location: Lusail International Circuit
Find out more about tickets and packages here.
Expo 2023 Doha Qatar
Coming under the theme “Green Desert, Better Environment” The International Horticultural Exhibition, Expo 2023 will be the first held in the Middle East and North Africa. The exhibition aims to mitigate and reduce desertification by inspiring and informing people about innovating solutions.
Date: October 2, 2023 – March 28, 2024
Location: Al Bidda Park
MotoGPTM Qatar Grand Prix
Experience an exhilarating weekend of motorcycle racing at the newly renovated Lusail International Circuit. Get exclusive access to trackside experiences including Garage Tours, Paddock Tours, Pit Lane Walks and Rider Meet & Greet with an all official ticket package.
Date: November 17 -19
Location: Lusail International Circuit
For more information on ticket prices and packages click here.
Geneva International Motor Show
Taking place in Qatar for the very first time, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) is a highly anticipated event amongst car enthusiasts. It is one of the most prestigious events in the automotive world and the only show in Europe recognized by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA).
Date: Expected in the second half of 2023
Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC)
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