Doha, Qatar is gearing up to host the second annual Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon on February 10, 2026, along the scenic Lusail Boulevard. The event, coinciding with Qatar National Sport Day, aims to promote a healthy lifestyle and strengthen sports culture throughout the nation. Organizers anticipate a significant increase in participation, targeting 10,000 runners from Qatar and abroad.
The Half Marathon will feature a diverse range of race categories designed to encourage broad participation, from a 1-kilometer children’s race to a 21-kilometer open category for adults. This inclusive approach underscores the QOC’s commitment to making sports accessible to all segments of Qatari society. Registration is currently open via the QOC’s official website.
Expanding the Qatar Half Marathon: A Focus on Inclusivity and Growth
The inaugural Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon in 2024 drew approximately 6,000 participants, and organizers are actively working to expand that number by 67% for the 2026 edition. This growth reflects Qatar’s broader national strategy to prioritize public health and wellness, aligning with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. The event is intended to be a cornerstone of this initiative.
Race Categories and Participation Details
The race will be divided into age and gender-specific categories. Children aged 6-14 can participate in the 1km race, while youth aged 15-17 can choose the 5km distance. Adults aged 19-39 and 40+ will have options for 5km, 10km, and 21km races. Additionally, “Team Qatar” categories will be available for both men and women in the same age groups and distances, fostering a sense of national pride and competition.
According to Ahmed Al Jaber, Head of the Technical Committee, the inclusion of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Qatar School Sports Federation is a significant enhancement to the event’s profile. This collaboration aims to promote Olympic values within the educational system and elevate the Half Marathon’s standing on a continental and international level.
Olympic Council of Asia and Educational Outreach
The OCA will participate in a Fun Run alongside the main races, emphasizing the importance of sport in education. Representatives from the OCA will also attend National Sport Day activities and visit Team Village at Al Sa’ad Plaza. This village will serve as a central hub for accompanying sporting and recreational events, organized in partnership with various national sports federations.
Meanwhile, the event is expected to boost sports tourism in Qatar. The country has invested heavily in sporting infrastructure in recent years, including hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022, and the Half Marathon builds on this momentum. This event is part of a larger effort to position Qatar as a premier destination for sporting events.
The organizing committee is committed to delivering an event that meets the highest organizational and technical standards. They are working closely with national sports federations and partners to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. This includes providing comprehensive logistical support, medical services, and security measures.
Looking ahead, the QOC will continue to refine the event based on feedback from participants and stakeholders. The committee will also explore opportunities to expand the Half Marathon’s reach and impact in the years to come. Further details regarding course maps, registration deadlines, and event schedules will be released in the coming months, and organizers will be monitoring registration numbers closely to assess the event’s overall success.
