Doha, Qatar – The skies over Old Doha Port are filled with vibrant color as the Qatar Kite Festival commenced on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Teams from 20 countries are participating in the annual event, drawing large crowds of residents and tourists alike. The festival, which aims to boost Qatar’s tourism sector, will run until January 24, 2024, offering a range of activities and entertainment for all ages.
The festival’s opening day saw a significant turnout despite windy conditions, with families enjoying food, beverages, and a dedicated children’s play area. Organizers have highlighted the increased scale of this year’s event, featuring more and larger kites than in previous editions. The event is strategically located to showcase the Doha skyline and enhance the city’s winter tourism offerings.
A Spectacle of Kites at the Qatar Kite Festival
The Qatar Kite Festival has quickly become a popular fixture on the country’s events calendar. This year’s edition features a diverse array of kites, from traditional designs to elaborate, large-scale creations. Participants are showcasing their skills in kite flying, design, and construction, creating a visually stunning experience for attendees.
Mohammed bin Qasem Al-Nasir Al-Harrasi, representing a team from Oman, expressed his delight at being part of the festival, calling it “one of the great and beautiful festivals in the whole region.” He welcomed visitors to experience the event firsthand. This international participation underscores Qatar’s growing reputation as a host for global events.
International Participation and Kite Designs
The festival attracts kite enthusiasts from around the world, eager to share their passion and expertise. Andy Sadler, a pilot from the UK attending with her husband Andrew, described Qatar as a “fantastic, wonderful place” to fly kites, noting it was their first visit for the event.
Sadler’s team brought several impressive kites, including a 27-meter crocodile and a large whale shark, alongside illuminated kites for nighttime displays. These large-scale creations are a major draw for spectators, demonstrating the artistry and technical skill involved in modern kite flying. The inclusion of LED kites adds a unique dimension to the festival, extending the enjoyment into the evening hours.
Hassan Almosawi, an organizer of the event, stated that the festival aims to provide an enjoyable experience for families and children from Doha and neighboring countries. He noted the event’s fourth iteration is the largest yet, with opportunities for visitors to purchase kites from vendors on site. This accessibility encourages wider participation and fosters a sense of community around the art of kite flying.
The location at Old Doha Port, with its proximity to the terminal and panoramic views, was intentionally chosen to complement the city’s tourism initiatives. According to officials, events like the kite festival are crucial for diversifying Qatar’s tourism offerings and attracting a broader range of visitors. This aligns with the country’s broader strategy to become a leading tourism destination in the Middle East, focusing on cultural experiences and family-friendly activities.
The festival also contributes to the local economy through increased spending at nearby businesses and hotels. The influx of tourists during the event provides a boost to the hospitality sector and supports local employment. Qatar’s investment in such events demonstrates its commitment to developing a sustainable tourism industry.
Looking ahead, organizers will assess visitor feedback and participation levels to inform planning for the 2027 festival. The success of this year’s event will likely lead to further expansion and innovation in future iterations, potentially including workshops and demonstrations. The continued growth of the Qatar Kite Festival will depend on securing ongoing funding and attracting a diverse range of international participants. The long-term impact on Qatar’s tourism sector remains to be seen, but the initial signs are promising.
