Doha, Qatar – Old Doha Port has announced the launch of “Move,” a six-day sports festival designed to promote health, community engagement, and physical activity. The festival, running from February 5th to 10th, will culminate on National Sports Day, offering a diverse range of events at Mina Park. Organizers aim to inspire a more active lifestyle among residents and visitors alike, with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.
What to Expect at the Move Sports Festival
The “Move” festival is a collaboration between Old Doha Port and NO LIMITS, a Qatari company specializing in race and sports event organization. The event’s name draws inspiration from the Qatari expression “Tarayyad,” meaning to engage in physical activity, and its roots in classical Arabic, emphasizing the cultural significance of movement. This connection aims to resonate with the local community and promote a holistic approach to wellness.
Festival Zones and Activities
The festival will feature seven distinct zones, each catering to different interests and age groups. Daily panel discussions with athletes and sports industry professionals will explore topics related to health and fitness. Attendees can also participate in a variety of fitness classes offered throughout the six days.
A key event is a running race scheduled for February 7th along the Mina Corniche. Registration is currently open through the social media channels of both Old Doha Port and NO LIMITS. Additionally, the festival will include retail spaces offering sports products, healthy food and beverage options, a dedicated children’s area, and zones focused on recovery and relaxation.
Promoting Health and Wellness in Qatar
Engineer Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, stated the festival reflects the port’s commitment to promoting sport as an integral part of life and showcasing its facilities as a hub for recreation. The timing of “Move,” leading up to National Sports Day, is intentional, aiming to encourage widespread participation in health and recreational programs. This initiative aligns with Qatar’s broader efforts to improve public health outcomes.
Qatar has increasingly emphasized preventative healthcare and active lifestyles in recent years. National Sports Day, first established in 2012, is a key component of this strategy, encouraging citizens and residents to dedicate a day to physical activity. The “Move” festival builds on this momentum by providing a sustained period of engagement and offering diverse options for participation. The event also supports the country’s fitness goals.
The festival’s organizers highlight its contribution to the Human Development objectives outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes the well-being and active participation of its citizens. By fostering a culture of movement, “Move” aims to support long-term health and societal progress. The event is expected to draw significant crowds, boosting local businesses and tourism.
Looking Ahead
Following the conclusion of the “Move” festival on February 10th, organizers will assess the event’s impact and gather feedback from participants. A post-event report detailing attendance figures, program engagement, and community response is anticipated in the coming weeks. Future iterations of the festival may incorporate these findings to further enhance the experience and broaden its reach, potentially expanding the range of health activities offered and the duration of the event. The success of this year’s festival will likely influence similar initiatives at other locations throughout Qatar.
