Doha, Qatar – The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) is finalizing preparations for the second annual Qatar Half Marathon, scheduled for February 10, 2026, at Lusail Boulevard. This event aims to boost sports participation and promote a healthy lifestyle throughout the country. Organizers are expecting significant growth in participant numbers, building on the success of the inaugural race.
The Qatar Half Marathon will be held in conjunction with Qatar’s National Sport Day, a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting physical activity. The race will offer a variety of distances to accommodate participants of all ages and fitness levels, fostering inclusivity within the community. Registration is currently open to the public through the QOC’s official website.
Expanding the Qatar Half Marathon for 2026
The QOC aims to increase participation in the 2026 race from 6,000 to 10,000 runners, representing both domestic and international athletes. This expansion reflects Qatar’s growing reputation as a host of major sporting events and its commitment to community engagement through sports. The organizers are focusing on enhancing the logistical and technical aspects of the race to provide a world-class experience for all competitors.
Race Categories and Distances
The event will feature diverse race categories to encourage broad participation. These include a 1km run for children aged 6-14, 5km and 10km races for the general public (ages 19-39), and a full 21km half marathon option. Separate categories are also available for participants aged 40 and above, as well as dedicated “Team Qatar” divisions for both age groups, promoting national pride and teamwork.
According to Salah Al-Saadi, Vice Chairman of the Half Marathon Organising Committee, the QOC is dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience for all involved. He emphasized the importance of the event’s long-term sustainability, aligning with the QOC’s broader vision of becoming a leading nation in sports development. This commitment includes ensuring the race adheres to the highest technical standards.
The choice of Lusail Boulevard as the race location is strategic. The area provides a scenic and well-maintained route suitable for runners of all levels. Lusail City, a modern urban development, is increasingly becoming a hub for sporting and cultural activities in Qatar. The boulevard’s infrastructure is designed to support large-scale events, minimizing disruption and maximizing participant safety.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Qatar Half Marathon serves as a key component of Qatar’s national health strategy. The country has been actively working to combat rising rates of obesity and promote preventative healthcare measures. Initiatives like this race are seen as vital in fostering a culture of physical activity and well-being among its citizens and residents. This aligns with the broader goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes human development and a healthy population.
The event is also expected to provide a boost to the local economy. Increased tourism related to the race will benefit hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in the Lusail area and throughout Doha. The QOC is working with local partners to maximize the economic impact of the marathon and showcase Qatar as a welcoming destination for sports tourism. Related events, such as a sports expo, are also being considered to further enhance the overall experience.
Looking ahead, the QOC will focus on finalizing logistical details, including route security, medical support, and volunteer recruitment. Successful registration numbers and positive feedback from participants will be critical benchmarks for evaluating the event’s success. The QOC will also be analyzing data from the race to identify areas for improvement in future editions, ensuring the Qatar Half Marathon continues to grow and evolve as a premier sporting event.
While the event is well into its preparation phase, potential challenges related to weather conditions remain a consideration. February in Qatar typically offers pleasant running weather, but organizers will be prepared to adjust the race schedule or implement cooling measures if necessary to ensure participant safety. Further details regarding specific safety protocols are expected to be released closer to the event date.
