QIFF 2026, Qatar’s largest and most anticipated food festival, is making its grand return from January 14 to 24 at the iconic 974 Stadium precinct, with kiosk registration now officially open for restauranteurs, home businesses, and international food outlets.

Culinary Event of the Year

Organised by Visit Qatar, QIFF (Qatar International Food Festival) stands as a flagship celebration of the nation's vibrant food, beverage, and hospitality industries, promising visitors a rich culinary journey across local and global flavours. Each edition draws crowds in the hundreds of thousands, making it a focal point on Qatar’s events calendar.

What to Expect in 2026

This year marks QIFF’s 15th edition, featuring daily fireworks, live entertainment, and special food competitions like watermelon eating and spice challenges at the entertaining QIFF Ring. The festival also spotlights gourmet dishes in the MICHELIN Guide Village plus engaging workshops and activities for both adults and children.

Visitors can roam through themed food districts, sampling dishes from 100+ kiosks and nearly 30 restaurants, representing every major culinary region from Arabian to Mediterranean to Asian cuisines. Family zones and outdoor activities ensure there is something for everyone throughout the 10-day event.

Registration Now Open for Food Vendors

Home-grown businesses, established restaurants, and innovative food startups are encouraged to register for a booth at QIFF 2026 by applying online on the Qatar Tourism website. Participation requirements include company details and valid health certification, with the opportunity to reach a diverse and international audience.

Spotlight on New Experiences

While organisers haven’t yet revealed the complete programme for 2026, they have teased new surprises and special exclusive experiences like VIP dining packages, food workshops, and cooking demonstrations by top chefs. Returning crowd-pleasers such as Dinner in the Sky and lively chef masterclasses are also expected.

QIFF 2026 is not only a grand stage for delicious eats but a festive, family-friendly celebration guaranteed to kick off Qatar’s new year in style.

Official Registration Link

Applications for kiosks and participation at Qatar International Food Festival 2026 are now open and available through the Qatar Tourism official site. Interested parties should submit their details, including company registration and health certification, directly via:

Official registration link: Qatar Tourism registration for QIFF 2026

Anyone looking to showcase their culinary offerings at Qatar’s premier food event should complete registration as soon as possible to secure their place.

Engaging Workshops and Family Activities

 

This month, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is hosting three dynamic public workshops designed for all ages. The Action Model Drawing workshop on September 3 will encourage participants to explore figure drawing through movement and gesture. Realms of Rhythm on September 6 will combine music and visual arts, allowing families to engage in rhythm-based activities that foster creativity. Finally, Art Adventure on September 13 invites attendees to embark on a creative journey, using various mediums to express their artistic visions. Each session promises immersive experiences that intertwine creativity, movement, and visual art, making them perfect for art enthusiasts and families alike.

In addition to these workshops, the Public Narrative and Data Storytelling workshop at the Liberal Arts & Science Building in Education City, occurring from September 28 to 29, will focus on how to effectively communicate complex data through narrative techniques. This workshop is particularly beneficial for professionals in fields such as journalism, marketing, and education.

Conferences and Industry Events

 

The 2nd Annual Qatar Digital Talent Ecosystem Dialogue, scheduled for September 9 and 10 at the JW Marriott Marquis, aims to bring together industry leaders and policymakers to discuss strategies for upskilling the workforce and fostering digital innovation in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. Keynote speakers will include prominent figures in technology and education, sharing insights on future trends and opportunities.

On September 24 and 25, the Sīrah of the Prophet (PBUH) Conference at the Minaretein Centre will address the teachings of the Prophet in the context of modern challenges in conflict resolution and diplomacy. The event will feature renowned scholars and thought leaders, with sessions conducted in both Arabic and English, making it accessible to a diverse audience.

From September 30 to October 2, the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) will host Qatar Medicare 2025, a landmark event that will unite health leaders, medical technology providers, and policymakers to discuss innovations in healthcare. The event will feature panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Concurrently, the Qatar Beauty & WellCare Show will spotlight the latest advancements in medical aesthetics, wellness, and holistic healthcare solutions, featuring exhibitors from around the globe.

Additionally, DECC will host the Print Pack Sign Show and the Qatar Event Show from September 2 to 4, providing a platform for professionals in the events, print, and MICE industries to connect, share ideas, and explore the latest trends and technologies.

Celebrating Heritage and Sports

 

From September 10 to 14, the S’hail – Katara International Hunting and Falconry Exhibition at Katara Cultural Village will celebrate Qatar's rich traditions in falconry and hunting. The exhibition will feature live demonstrations, workshops, and a marketplace showcasing hunting tools and outdoor crafts, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts and families alike.

In sports, the GCC Teams Padel Tournament for boys and girls aged 14, 16, and 18 will take place at the Padel Academy from September 15 to 19. This tournament aims to promote youth engagement in sports and foster regional competition among young athletes. Following this, the Seashore Phoenix Games 2025 will occur from September 25 to 29 at Aspire Zone, marking the fifth edition of Qatar’s premier CrossFit competition for both men and women, with participants from across the GCC.

On September 6, athletes will be challenged in the Savage Line, a high-intensity obstacle sprint at West Walk. This event features eight skill-testing stages designed to challenge participants' speed, agility, and coordination, making it an exhilarating experience for competitors and spectators.

To wrap up the month, the QTerminals Qatar Classic PSA Platinum Squash Tournament will commence on September 28 and run until October 4 at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. This prestigious event will welcome elite international athletes, showcasing top-tier squash competition and promising thrilling matches for fans.

As the countdown to the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 intensifies, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is gearing up to deliver an extraordinary blend of high-speed thrills and unforgettable entertainment. The highlight? The internationally renowned British singer-songwriter Seal, whose soulful voice has mesmerized millions, will take center stage on November 28, 2025, to kick off an electrifying weekend of live music.

Seal, born Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel, is famed for his distinctive fusion of soul, R&B, pop, dance, and rock, captivating audiences worldwide with hits like the legendary “Kiss from a Rose.” His powerful vocals and emotional depth have earned him four Grammy Awards, including three for that iconic track in 1996, and over 30 million records sold globally. Fans can look forward to an intimate evening soundtracking the F1 Family Friday  a special night designed for families to unwind and celebrate the start of the racing weekend.

But the weekend’s entertainment lineup doesn’t stop there. LIC promises more exciting acts to be announced for Saturday and Sunday, ensuring every day bursts with thrilling performances and vibrant energy both on and off the track.

Friday’s racing schedule kicks off with a Free Practice session, followed by Sprint Qualifying which sets the grid for the Saturday Sprint Race. The action also includes Formula 2 races and an upcoming support race yet to be revealed, providing plenty of high-adrenaline moments to satisfy motorsport fans.

Meanwhile, the Fan Zone will be alive with fun interactive experiences, live music, and the much-anticipated F1 Fan Forum  a rare opportunity for fans to engage directly with drivers and team principals on stage. Food and beverage stalls will offer a delicious variety to fuel the excitement throughout the day.

To catch Seal’s unforgettable live performance, racegoers can purchase a Friday General Admission ticket for QR 200. Alternatively, a three-day General Admission ticket is available for QR 600, while premium seating options include three-day Grandstand tickets priced from QR 750 (with discounts for students and seniors) up to QR 1,500. All admission types include access to Seal’s concert.

For those seeking the ultimate experience, exclusive hospitality packages offer VIP concert access paired with premium viewing of the race weekend’s thrills.

Tickets are selling fast for what promises to be Qatar’s biggest motorsport and entertainment event of the year. Fans eager to be part of this spectacular weekend are encouraged to secure their tickets promptly.
This November, Lusail International Circuit is set not only to thrill with high-octane racing but also to enchant with soulful melodies  ensuring the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 is an unforgettable celebration for all.

Qatar Tourism (QT), through its Service Excellence Academy in partnership with Qatar Museums (QM), has successfully concluded the inaugural Junior Tour Guide 2025 program a unique initiative aimed at inspiring young Qataris through immersive tourism experiences across the nation’s iconic museums.

The camp, held recently, brought together two groups of children, engaging them in a series of interactive activities designed to deepen their appreciation of Qatar’s rich cultural heritage. The vibrant journey culminated in a heartfelt closing ceremony at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), where the first batch of junior tour guides was recognized in the presence of proud parents and key partners.

Omar Abdulrahman al-Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, emphasized the program’s impact: “Through the Service Excellence Academy, Qatar Tourism is dedicated to delivering meaningful initiatives for our local community. This camp went beyond traditional sightseeing; it equipped children with vital skills in storytelling, teamwork, and communication all essential qualities for nurturing the next generation of tourism ambassadors.”

He added, “We hope to inspire our youth to envision themselves as future leaders in the tourism sector, proudly carrying Qatar’s message to the world.”

Throughout the program, participants explored Qatar’s cultural treasures at several landmark venues. The National Museum of Qatar hosted educational tours and learning sessions, while the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum provided an interactive activity zone for early engagement. The Museum of Islamic Art’s education team offered a dynamic “Escape Room” experience, blending fun with creative learning.

Qatar Museums played a key role behind the scenes, ensuring smooth coordination of logistics, venue access, and scheduling. The rewarding cultural journey was further enhanced by Katara Cultural Village, where children explored the Al Thuraya Planetarium, Opera House, and Drama Theatre.

On the final day, Doha Bus facilitated a sightseeing tour across Doha’s iconic landmarks, giving young participants the chance to practice their tour guiding skills in a real-world setting.

“This camp is a testament to Qatar Tourism’s ongoing commitment to connect with the community, especially children and families, through innovative and educational tourism experiences,” the QT statement said. “Following the enthusiastic response, we look forward to expanding similar initiatives that nurture local talent and passion for Qatar’s rich heritage.”

With this successful debut, the Junior Tour Guide program sets the stage for future editions, promising to cultivate a vibrant generation ready to champion Qatar on the global tourism map.

The highly anticipated third edition of Visit Qatar’s Qatar Toy Festival (QTF) concluded on Monday after a thrilling 30 days packed with creativity, entertainment, and family bonding at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. Drawing over 130,000 visitors, the festival shattered previous attendance records by 12%, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier summer events for children and families.

The grand finale featured a vibrant ceremony including a highlight reel of the month’s best moments, dynamic dance performances by Crew Q, a special act by the popular Adnan Family, and the announcement of the winner of the exciting Jetour competition. As dusk settled, a dazzling drone show illuminated West Bay’s skyline, followed by a festive cake cutting, joyful mascot appearances, a balloon drop, and giveaways that delighted attendees.

Hamad al-Khaja, Manager of Festivals and Events Delivery at Visit Qatar, reflected on the festival’s success: “This year’s QTF has truly showcased the power of family-focused events in bringing the community together. From launching the QTF Summer Camp tailored to children aged 4 to 12, to the Back-to-School activities that wrapped up the festival, we created joyful, immersive experiences that resonated with families across Qatar. We’re already gearing up for an even bigger celebration next year.”

This year introduced fresh additions like the QTF Summer Camp, a specially designed structured morning program for kids, and inclusive initiatives such as Qatar’s Purple Saturday on July 26. This dedicated day celebrated children with special needs by providing them free access, inclusive entertainment, and adapted facilities, ensuring everyone felt welcome.

The festival’s main stage buzzed daily with headline performers including renowned regional and international artists such as the ALJ Sisters, Rasha Rizk, Huda Al-Hussain, El Daheeh, and the Adnan Family. Their energetic shows, along with science demonstrations, dance acts, and interactive competitions, kept audiences of all ages captivated throughout the month.

Adding to the excitement were new brand experiences including PUBG, Five Nights at Freddy’s, Lilo & Stitch, and Sherlock Holmes, alongside beloved returning favorites Build-A-Bear and Haribo. This fusion of global entertainment and local culture delivered a uniquely memorable family festival unlike any other in Qatar.

As this year’s Qatar Toy Festival closes, families and children are already looking forward to the next chapter of joyful exploration, learning, and fun brought to life by Visit Qatar’s dynamic events calendar.

Qatar Tourism (QT) has issued a final invitation for professionals and organizations in the tourism and hospitality sectors in Qatar to apply for the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. This prestigious annual event is organized in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) to honor individuals and entities that have made significant contributions to enhancing service standards, innovation, and excellence within Qatar’s vital tourism industry.

The application deadline is August 7, 2025. Interested participants whether individuals or organizations can register through the official website: www.qatartourismawards.com. The winners will be revealed at a gala ceremony in late November 2025.

The awards are structured into 37 subcategories across seven principal award groups: Service Excellence, Culinary Experiences, Iconic Attractions, Major Events, Digital Footprint, Smart and Sustainable Tourism, and Community Leaders.

Submissions must adhere to the Qatar Tourism Awards’ specific criteria, following Qatar Tourism’s regulations and standards. Categories recognize hotels, resorts, restaurants, holiday homes, destination management companies, event venues, tour guides, content creators, and more. The program celebrates businesses and individuals creating outstanding visitor experiences—through customer service, innovative offerings, sustainability, and authentic cultural engagement.

 For instance, an “Outstanding 3-Star Hotel” must be licensed, operational for at least 15 months, and compliant with health, safety, and sustainability standards, while “Exceptional Holiday Home Experience” awards are open to licensed holiday homes operational for a year or more. Culinary categories honor both traditional Qatari dining and innovative new restaurants.

 There are also awards for adventure tourism, iconic local attractions, and digital marketing excellence. Most categories require proof of licensure, operational tenure, and compliance with local standards. Specific criteria and eligibility details for each subcategory are outlined in the official guidelines available on the awards’ site.

Applications must be submitted online using a guided form, allowing participants to showcase their achievements and impact. Progress can be saved and applications edited before final submission. For further information or clarification, applicants can contact awards organizers at [email protected].
The Qatar Tourism Awards spotlight and celebrate leaders who drive the nation’s tourism vision forward, and all qualifying professionals are encouraged to seize this final opportunity to participate.