Your Guide to Winter Festivals in Qatar 2025-2026

Qatar’s winter, from November to February, is the perfect time to enjoy sunny days with temps around 20-25°C (68-77°F). It’s not freezing, but it’s cool enough for outdoor adventures without sweating buckets. Whether you’re a visitor escaping cold winters or a local looking for fun, Qatar’s got a lineup of festivals starting in November 2025 that’ll keep you busy.

This guide covers the best events, with tips to save money, avoid crowds, and make memories.

Why Winter in Qatar Rocks?

Think beyond just "nice weather." It's truly the perfect time to experience everything this vibrant country has to offer, and the tourism numbers prove it. For instance, 2024 was a banner year, with Qatar welcoming over 5 million visitors—a huge 25% leap from the year before. This incredible growth shows that more and more people are discovering the magic of a Qatari winter, and the upcoming winter season is looking even better.

With millions of visitors flocking to Qatar, the hospitality sector is more ready than ever. In 2024, the country logged an unprecedented 10 million room nights, proving it can handle the crowds with top-notch service. So, if you're looking for a winter getaway that combines perfect weather, thrilling events, and brand-new experiences, Qatar should be at the top of your list.

Must Attend Festivals in Qatar Throughout Winter 2025

2025 FIFA U‑17 World Cup — November 3 to 27, Qatar

The 2025 U‑17 World Cup in Qatar marks a major milestone: 48 youth national teams will compete over 25 days from 3–27 November, making it the largest edition in history.

Hosted across world‑class venues, including those used in the 2022 senior World Cup, the final is set for the Khalifa International Stadium on 27 November.

For visitors, it’s an excellent chance to see emerging football talents from six continents, in stadiums engineered for comfort even in warmer climates. Fan zones will offer interactive activities, and the hospitality is built to handle large international crowds.

From a travel‑planning view: Expect match tickets starting at modest levels (family packages available), but hotels in major centres may book up given the scale. With warm but comfortable late‑autumn weather in Qatar (daytime temperatures often near 28 °C, low rainfall), exploring both stadiums and city sights becomes feasible.

If you’re a family, this offers a unique global‑sports environment minus the extreme cost of senior tournaments. For solo or international travellers, the crowd mix and event atmosphere are major draws. Just plan for transport to/from stadiums. If you are a visitor, booking a rental car at Hamad International Airport is the most convenient way to map your schedule with flexibility. Try to stay near the Doha metro lines for convenience.

UFC Fight Night:  November 22, 2025, Doha

On 22 November, the world of mixed martial arts lands in Qatar at the Ali Bin Hamad al‑Attiyah Arena in Doha. This event marks a debut for the UFC in Qatar and turns the region’s sporting spotlight toward MMA.

The headline fight: Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker at lightweight, and co‑main of Belal Muhammad vs. Ian Machado Garry at welterweight.

Tickets begin around QAR 130 (~USD $36) for entry levels, with faster sell‑outs expected given its novelty in the region.

For travellers: This is a chance to attend a high‑intensity live event with global fighters, in a country that has rapidly built up world‑class venues since the 2022 World Cup. Combine it with exploring Doha’s cityscape, cultural hubs, and desert excursions.

Because it’s an indoor event, the weather is less of a concern, though you’ll still want transport arranged and book your accommodation early. And since it’s a unique one‑off in Qatar’s event calendar, being flexible with plans around this date is wise.

2025 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix (Formula 1) — 27–30 November 2025, Lusail

The 2025 F1® Qatar Grand Prix at the Lusail International Circuit (just outside Doha) is a must for motorsport fans. Set 27–30 November, it features high speeds (cars hitting ~350 km/h), night racing, grandstand views, entertainment, and global broadcast reach.

Visitors will find a range of ticket options—from general grandstand passes at ~QAR 400, to premium hospitality packages exceeding QAR 2,000, plus kid‑friendly segments where children under 12 often enter free in certain stands.

It’s not only about racing: built‑in fan zones, interactive VR experiences in Doha’s malls, large installations around the city, and a celebratory atmosphere make the event as much entertainment as sport.

For travellers planning a stay: late‑November in Qatar sees comfortable temperatures (highs near 28‑30 °C, evenings ~18‑20 °C), great for both daytime exploration and evening events. Book hotels near Lusail/Doha early, arrange long-term car rentals through Final Rentals, and plan to enjoy the entire weekend (Fri‑Sun), not just the race day.

If you’re travelling with family or friends, looking for a lively, immersive experience—not just a race—this event delivers big.

Qatar National Day – December 18

Every year on December 18, Qatar comes alive with celebrations for National Day. This date marks the unification of the country under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani in 1878.

By official decree, this day became a national holiday in 2007. For visitors, it offers a mix of history, flags, parades, fireworks, and cultural fun. The main parade runs along the Doha Corniche and features military units, floats, historic vehicles, and public participation.

The weather is very comfortable: in December, daytime highs in Doha hover around 24‑26 °C (75‑79 °F) and evenings drop to about 18‑20 °C (64‑68 °F).

That means you can wear light clothes during the day, and carry a light jacket for the evening.For families, it’s especially good: many zones have pony rides, henna art, live music, and activities for kids. For solo travelers or couples, the fireworks at night and the city’s festive décor make for a memorable experience.

Practical tips: arrive early (morning) for the parade if you want a good spot, or choose a comfy spot for the evening fireworks.

Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF) – December 7‑12, 2025

If you prefer art, creativity, and culture rather than parades, then the Qatar International Art Festival is your pick. From December 7 to 12, 2025, at the Katara Cultural Village in Doha, this festival brings together over 450 artists from about 70 countries under the theme of “Sustainability & Innovation in Art.”

Expect big exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, digital installations, and live art shows. Entry is generally free or low-cost. Workshops for families (kid‑friendly) are available, e.g., mural painting sessions, craft workshops at modest fees.

Weather‑wise, early December remains pleasant: average highs around 24‑27 °C (75‑81 °F) and lows around 18‑20 °C (64‑68 °F).

For a family with kids: It’s relaxed, less crowded than big public holidays, and the cultural zone means you can break off into quiet corners if little ones get tired. For art lovers or solo travellers: you’ll appreciate the international‑flavour exhibits, opportunities to meet artists, and explore global art from one place.

Practical advice: visit in the morning or early afternoon for fewer crowds; bring a camera (many installations are photo‑friendly); check workshop schedules ahead if you want to join. Food and drinks are available on site. If evening shows are scheduled, carry a light layer for the cooler breeze.

Qatar International Food Festival – February 12‑22, 2025

Last on the list but not least, for food lovers and families alike, the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) is a big draw. From February 12 to 22, 2025, at the Hotel Park Dafna in Doha, the event features over 100 food stalls and 27 international restaurants, plus live chef demonstrations, family‑friendly zones, and global dishes.

Weather in mid‑February remains comfortable (similar to December) with day highs around 24‑26 °C (75‑79 °F) and mild nights. The event is outdoors/partly outdoor, so you’ll want to dress in layers.

What to expect: food booths offering local Qatari dishes and world cuisines, vegetarian/vegan options, live music, fireworks, or drone shows in the evening. Entry is free; dishes typically cost moderate amounts (QR 20 or more).

For families: there are kids’ food zones, fun cooking workshops, and evening entertainment with music and lights. For solo travellers or foodie couples: it’s a chance to sample global flavours, meet people, and enjoy dining in a festive atmosphere.

Visit during early evening when food stalls open, music begins, and the atmosphere builds. Avoid waiting for the peak crowd—go in the first hour of the evening or earlier.

Ask More About Upcoming Festivals in Qatar 2025-2026

How can I stay updated on festival schedules and avoid missing changes?

Festival dates, like the FIFA U-17 World Cup (November 3-27) or Umm Salal Winter Festival (through February 2025), can shift due to unforeseen factors. Qatar’s official tourism apps and event websites offer real-time updates for events like Qatar National Day, which draws 500,000 people. Subscribe to notifications or follow social media for ticket alerts (e.g., UFC sold out in hours).

Are there enough facilities for long days at festivals?

Venues like Katara for the Art Festival (December 7-12) and Lusail for Formula 1 (November 28-30) have plenty of restrooms, prayer rooms, and family facilities, designed for crowds of 100,000+. Smaller events like Umm Salal’s market may have limited toilets, so arrive early.

How do I balance attending multiple festivals in one trip?

Combine events for efficiency: November 20-30 covers UFC (November 22), Formula 1, and Umm Salal’s Dates Exhibit. December 7-18 includes the Art Festival and Qatar National Day. Stay in Doha (QR 200-1,000/night) for metro access to venues 10-30 minutes apart.

What’s the best way to get to festival venues in Qatar?

Qatar’s metro is a lifesaver, costing QR 2 ($0.55) per ride and connecting to venues like Lusail for the Formula 1 Grand Prix (November 28-30) or Katara for the Art Festival (December 7-12). Free shuttles serve major events like the FIFA U-17 World Cup (November 3-27). Renting a car is the most convenient way to get to festival venues.

Where should I stay during the 2025 winter festivals?

Doha has hotels for every budget, from QR 200 ($55) per night in Al Sadd to QR 1,000 for luxury near the Corniche. Winter sees a 30% booking spike, so reserve 2-3 months early. Families can choose apartments in West Bay with kitchens, near venues like Katara (10-minute drive).

Are these festivals in Qatar family-friendly for kids?

Qatar National Day (December 18) offers pony rides and henna for kids among 100,000 attendees. The Formula 1 Grand Prix has free entry for under-12s and karting zones. The Art Festival includes mural painting. Venues are stroller-friendly with shaded areas, tackling the challenge of keeping kids entertained and comfortable during events.

What food options are available, especially for dietary needs?

The Food Festival (February 12-22) has 100+ stalls with vegan, vegetarian, and halal dishes, serving 200,000 visitors at QR 20 ($5.50) per plate. Umm Salal Winter Festival offers local produce like dates (QR 5). FIFA events have halal snacks like falafel. Ask vendors about allergens, as English is common.

How much should I budget for a festival trip?

Expect QR 500 ($137) per day for tickets (e.g., QR 100 for FIFA U-17 World Cup), food (QR 20-50), and transport (QR 2-10). Budget hotels start at QR 200. Free events like the Art Festival save money. Qatar National Day and Umm Salal are mostly free, helping travelers avoid overspending while enjoying diverse experiences.

Is it safe to attend festivals, especially for solo travelers?

Qatar has one of the lowest crime rates globally. Events like the FIFA Arab Cup (December 1-18) have heavy security, with 1.5 million safely hosted in 2022. Family zones at Qatar National Day are guarded, and solo travelers can join group tours (QR 200) for Umm Salal. Well-lit metro stations add safety, easing concerns for cautious visitors.

Do I need a visa, and how easy is it to get one?

Most nationalities can get a 30-day e-visa for QR 100 ($27) online, processed in days. Some countries enjoy visa-free entry. Check Qatar’s visa portal before travel. Events like Formula 1 offer passes for free transport perks.

How do I respect Qatari culture at these festivals?

Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) at events like Qatar National Day or Umm Salal to show respect. Avoid public affection, and note that alcohol is restricted to licensed areas, not festivals. Ask before photographing locals.

How crowded are festivals, and how can I manage?

Qatar National Day draws 500,000, and sports events like UFC (November 22) sell out fast (15,000 seats). Arrive early for events like the FIFA U-17 World Cup or book tickets online via official apps. Mid-week visits to Umm Salal’s market (November 2024-February 2025) are quieter.

Are festivals worth the cost compared to free activities?

Paid events like Formula 1 (QR 400) or FIFA U-17 World Cup (QR 100) offer global thrills—1.2 million watched F1 last year. Free events like the Art Festival (450 artists) or Qatar National Day provide cultural depth. If the budget’s tight, free festivals are rich; sports fans will love paid events.

Final Words

Qatar’s winter festivals are a blast, mixing sports, culture, and food. From soccer to art to National Day pride, there’s something for every traveler and local. With great weather, easy travel, and events that bring people together, it’s the perfect time to visit.