Doha, Qatar – The 7th Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival is currently captivating audiences in Doha, showcasing the elegance and heritage of purebred Arabian horses. Running from January 22nd to January 27th, 2026, the festival draws both seasoned equestrian enthusiasts and casual visitors to the historic Souq Waqif, solidifying its position as a key event in Qatar’s cultural calendar. This year’s event features increased participation and a diverse program of competitions and activities.
Organized by the Celebrations Committee of the Private Engineering Office, the festival is free to attend and has already seen significant crowds. The event’s location within the vibrant Souq Waqif adds to its appeal, with the festival’s lighting and atmosphere attracting passersby.
The Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival: A Celebration of Arabian Horses
The festival’s core is the 7th Souq Waqif International Championship for Purebred Arabian Horses (Category A), which concluded prize awarding on January 22nd. This championship, along with the subsequent events, aims to promote the breeding and appreciation of these historically significant animals. According to organizers, this year’s edition boasts approximately 50 more horses than the previous year, indicating a growing interest in the sport and breed.
Competition Schedule and Highlights
The festival’s program extends beyond the initial championship. Traditional children’s competitions and activities are scheduled for January 23rd, offering family-friendly entertainment. From January 24th to 26th, the 15th Qatar International Championship for Purebred Arabian Peninsula Horses (Category S) will take center stage, further showcasing the diversity within the breed.
Additionally, the festival will culminate in a Purebred Arabian Horse Auction (Beauty Category) on January 27th. This auction provides a valuable platform for breeders and buyers to connect and trade, potentially influencing the future of Arabian horse breeding. The auction is expected to attract international interest.
The festival’s popularity extends to international visitors. A group of tourists from Japan, as reported by The Peninsula, expressed their delight at discovering the event while exploring Souq Waqif, highlighting the festival’s ability to draw in new audiences. This demonstrates the event’s growing international profile and its contribution to Qatar’s tourism sector.
However, the festival is more than just a sporting event. It serves as a vital link to Qatar’s cultural heritage, reinforcing the historical significance of the Arabian horse to Bedouin traditions and the nation’s identity. The preservation of these traditions is a key focus of Qatar’s cultural initiatives.
The increasing scale of the festival, as evidenced by the higher number of participating horses, suggests a growing investment in equestrian sports within Qatar. This investment aligns with the nation’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and promote cultural tourism. Qatar’s commitment to sports is well-documented, and the Equestrian Festival is a prominent example of this dedication.
Attendance is expected to continue to rise throughout the weekend, particularly with free entry. Organizers are monitoring crowd levels and ensuring a smooth experience for all attendees. The success of this year’s festival will likely inform planning for future editions, potentially leading to further expansion and enhanced programming.
Looking ahead, the results of the Purebred Arabian Horse Auction on January 27th will be closely watched by industry professionals. The auction’s outcomes could provide insights into current market trends and the perceived value of different bloodlines. Further analysis of the festival’s economic impact and visitor demographics is anticipated in the coming months.
