Doha, Qatar – Souq Waqif is set to host the 2026 Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival, a significant event for the Arabian horse community and a showcase of Qatari heritage. The festival, scheduled for January 20-27, 2026, will bring together owners, breeders, and enthusiasts of purebred Arabian horses alongside family-friendly cultural activities. This annual event continues to solidify Qatar’s position as a key hub for equestrian sports in the region.
The festival will unfold over eight days at the historic Souq Waqif, offering a diverse program of competitions, auctions, and traditional entertainment. According to a recent announcement by Souq Waqif via X (formerly Twitter), the event will feature both international and peninsula-focused championships, culminating in a specialized horse auction. The location provides a unique backdrop, blending the competitive spirit of equestrianism with the cultural richness of the souq.
The 2026 Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival: A Deep Dive
The festival’s core is the competition element, featuring two major championships. The 7th Souq Waqif International Championship for Purebred Arabian Horses (Category A) will kick off the event from January 20-22, 2026. This is followed by the 15th Qatar International Championship for Purebred Arabian Peninsula Horses (Category S), running from January 24-26, 2026.
Competition Details
Category A championships typically attract horses with international breeding lines, judged on conformation and movement according to global standards. Category S, in contrast, focuses on horses with origins specifically within the Arabian Peninsula, often emphasizing traits valued in traditional Bedouin breeding. These distinctions highlight the diverse lineage and characteristics within the purebred Arabian horse breed.
However, the festival extends beyond the show ring. January 23, 2026, is dedicated to traditional children’s competitions and events, designed to engage younger generations with Qatari culture and the equestrian tradition. This inclusion aims to foster a continued appreciation for horsemanship and heritage within the local community.
The festival will conclude with the Purebred Arabian Horse Auction (Beauty Category) on January 27, 2026. This auction provides a platform for buyers and sellers to trade horses specifically recognized for their aesthetic qualities, a significant aspect of Arabian horse breeding and showing. Souq Waqif itself is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and the festival is expected to draw a substantial crowd.
Qatar has invested heavily in equestrian infrastructure and events in recent years, aiming to become a leading destination for horse sports. This commitment is evident in the hosting of international competitions like the Qatar Equestrian Tour and the development of world-class facilities. The Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival complements these efforts by showcasing the unique beauty and heritage of the Arabian horse.
The economic impact of events like this extends to hospitality, transportation, and local businesses. Additionally, the festival contributes to the preservation of traditional breeding practices and the promotion of the Arabian horse as a cultural icon. The event also supports the broader sports tourism sector in Qatar.
Looking ahead, organizers are expected to release further details regarding entry requirements, judging panels, and specific event schedules in the coming months. The success of the 2026 festival will likely depend on attracting a strong international field of competitors and maintaining the high standards of organization seen in previous years. Monitoring registration numbers and the quality of horses entered will be key indicators of the event’s anticipated impact.
The continued growth of the Arabian horse market and the increasing global interest in equestrian events suggest a positive outlook for the festival. However, factors such as travel restrictions and economic conditions could potentially influence attendance and participation.
