Events in Doha
Qatar Tennis Open
January
Drawing big crowds to the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, Qatar’s annual tennis tournament has been running since the early 1990s and been won by the likes of Andy Murray, Roger Federer and Boris Becker.
Qatar Golf Masters
January
Doha’s yearly golf championship is now a fixture on the tour circuit, with everyone from Rory McIlroy to Ernie Els in regular attendance. It takes place at Doha Golf Club and attracts spectators from across the Middle East and further afield.
Doha Trade Fair
January
Qatar’s biggest shopping carnival comes to Doha at the start of each year, with more than 550 exhibitors showcasing and selling new goods. You’ll find everything from toys, gadgets and new technology to fashion items, perfume and cosmetics.
World Powerboat Championship
Dates vary
Qatar hosts one of the nine races that make up the F1 World Powerboat Championships, a spectacle that draws tens of thousands of spectators to the Doha Corniche waterfront. The boats themselves regularly reach speeds of up to 160mph.
Doha Tribeca Film Festival
November
Doha’s international film festival enjoys considerable prestige, despite only being launched in 2009 – past guests include Kevin Spacey, Robert de Niro and Salma Hayek. It takes place over eight days, using venues such as the excellent Museum of Islamic Arts.