Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Interior (MOI) has announced a temporary and significant road closure on the Doha Corniche this weekend to accommodate the annual Doha Marathon. The closure will impact a large section of the city’s central waterfront, affecting both local residents and visitors. Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes and expect delays during the specified timeframe.
The road closure will be in effect from 10:00 PM on Thursday, January 15, 2026, until 2:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2026. The affected area stretches from the West Bay area near the Sheraton Grand Doha Beach Resort to the Old Doha Port, encompassing roads around Al Bidda Park, the Amiri Diwan, and Souq Waqif. Partial closures will also be implemented on connecting roads leading to the Corniche, as detailed in a map released by the MOI.
Understanding the Doha Corniche Road Closure
The primary reason for the extensive road closure is to ensure the safety of the thousands of participants and spectators expected at the Doha Marathon. The Corniche serves as the main route for the marathon, and closing it to vehicular traffic allows for a dedicated and secure running path. According to the MOI, the closure is a necessary measure to facilitate the smooth running of the event.
Impact on Traffic and Commuting
This closure will undoubtedly cause disruptions to regular traffic flow in central Doha. Commuters traveling through the area are strongly encouraged to utilize alternative routes, such as roads further inland or those running parallel to the Corniche. The MOI has indicated that directional signage will be prominently displayed to guide drivers around the closed sections.
Additionally, public transportation options, including the Doha Metro and bus services, may experience increased demand during the marathon. Individuals are encouraged to consider these alternatives to avoid potential congestion. Real-time traffic updates will likely be available through apps like Waze and Google Maps, providing motorists with the most current information on road conditions.
Details of the Partial Closures
While the main stretch of the Corniche will be completely closed, the MOI has also announced partial closures on roads leading *to* the Corniche. These partial closures are designed to manage traffic flow and prevent vehicles from inadvertently entering the marathon route. The specific locations of these partial closures are visually represented on the map released by the ministry, allowing drivers to identify affected areas.
The timing of the partial closures is staggered, beginning earlier than the full closure to allow for the setup of the marathon infrastructure. This includes the placement of barriers, signage, and medical stations along the route. The MOI advises drivers to pay close attention to these partial closures and adjust their routes accordingly.
The Doha Marathon has become a significant sporting event in Qatar, attracting both amateur and professional runners from around the globe. The event contributes to the country’s growing reputation as a hub for international sports and tourism. This year’s marathon is expected to be particularly well-attended, following increased interest in running and fitness activities. The event also supports Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle and sustainable development.
In previous years, similar traffic diversions were implemented during the marathon, and residents have generally cooperated with the MOI’s instructions. However, the scale of this year’s closure appears to be more extensive, potentially leading to greater congestion on alternative routes. The MOI has urged the public to exercise patience and understanding during the period of the traffic restrictions.
Following the conclusion of the marathon at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2026, the MOI will begin the process of reopening the Corniche and associated roads. The reopening will be phased, with the main stretch of the Corniche expected to be fully accessible first. Motorists should continue to monitor traffic updates to confirm the complete restoration of normal traffic flow. The MOI has not yet announced a specific timeline for the full reopening, but it is anticipated to be completed within a few hours of the marathon’s end. Further announcements regarding any unforeseen delays or changes to the reopening schedule will be made through official channels.
The Ministry of Interior website remains the primary source for official information regarding the road closure and marathon details. The Doha Marathon official website provides information about the event itself, including the route map and participant details. Motorists and residents are encouraged to consult these resources for the most up-to-date information.
