Doha, Qatar: HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended National Sport Day 2025 activities at Qatar Foundation’s Education City, where thousands of community members gathered to celebrate sports and fitness as a way of life.
This year’s National Sport Day in Education City featured a series of exciting sports challenges organized by Qatar Foundation (QF), bringing together participants of all ages to enjoy, connect, and foster a spirit of sportsmanship and community participation.
Among those at QF’s National Sport Day activities was Zainab Al-Eqabi, para-athlete and Volkswagen Middle East’s brand ambassador, said: “I’m thrilled to join Qatar Foundation’s National Sport Day event in Doha with Volkswagen. As a Volkswagen ambassador and a passionate advocate for sports and wellness, I believe that staying active is not just about physical health – it also strengthens our minds, fosters a sense of community, and inspires positive lifestyle changes.
“Events like these bring people together, break barriers, and encourage a culture of well-being. I look forward to experiencing the diverse range of activities, connecting with participants, and celebrating the power of movement and inclusion”
HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, alongside Zainab Al-Eqabi, awarded the winning teams in the Women’s and Girls' Football Initiative, sponsored by Volkswagen Middle East.
Volkswagen Middle East-sponsored activities in Education City were designed to meet the needs of all members of the community, whatever their age and physical fitness. Meanwhile, the Education City Stadium was the setting for a range of women-only activities, including the Women's Fitness Challenge, which attracted a large number of participants in an exciting obstacle course.
Bakhita Al Marri attended the ladies-only event at the Education City Stadium with her four children. “When I’ve come to these events before, I’ve done classes like CrossFit. Today, we’ve come to see what’s available and what we can do,” she said.
“It’s great that these activities are just for women – it allows us to participate in sports and join classes more comfortably. I also attend QF’s Ladies’ Night events here.”
Aisha Alajmi also attended the ladies-only event in the Education City Stadium, saying: “I’ve come here today to participate in activities. Last year, I played in the semi-finals of the football competition that is hosted here – and today I’ve come down to watch my friends.
“I like that these events are for ladies-only; previously these didn’t exist. I really enjoy them, and today I’d like to try something new”.
Magdalena Evangelista brought her friend, Iyassa Manalo, to take part in the National Sport Day events at Education City, and said: “This isn’t my first time at Education City Stadium—I come regularly for sports events. Last year, I participated in the Fitness Challenge and enjoyed it so much that I’ve returned this year.
“After the Fitness Challenge, we’re planning to explore other activities. Last year, there were various classes, like boxing, yoga, and spinning.
“Education City is a beautiful place to be – it’s a real credit to QF’s leadership.”
At Education City’s Oxygen Park, families and children participated in creative and innovative sports and recreational activities organized by QF entities and divisions, including QF’s Pre-University Education, which collaborated with local sports federations to offer activities for people with disabilities, creating an inclusive sporting environment.
Wigel Dsowza, an Event Officer at the Ability Friendly Program, says: “Parents are very pleased with such activities, especially for some children who may have limited social interaction.
“When children participate in activities like this, it really helps improve their attention span. They become more focused, whether it's on schoolwork or other programs. Getting them out to socialize and developing skills like hand-eye coordination through basketball or football really supports other aspects of their lives.
“With our program, during the first class, children – especially those with certain disabilities – may not be comfortable with new environments. They can be shy and hesitant to participate in the beginning. But as time goes by, you can see significant development. After a while, they are completely transformed, and it's rewarding to watch that progress unfold.”
Amarnatha Reddy, who has two children with disabilities, said: “I come here with my children every National Sport Day – it's become a tradition for us. It’s a day we all look forward to each year, spending quality time together while staying active and participating in various sports events.
“Aside from National Sport Day, we also visit Education City at least twice each month. It's a regular outing for us, and we love making the most of what it has to offer. The kids love it, and it’s an enjoyable experience for all of us.
“We always make sure to stop by Oxygen Park, which has become a favorite of ours. What I love most is how peaceful and relaxing it is. It's such a calming environment, and it’s the perfect place for my kids to play and run around - they get to enjoy the outdoors, interact with other children, and just have a wonderful time. It’s truly a special place for family bonding, and I’m grateful for the memories we continue to make here.”
Allysa Valdez, who participated in the Education City Run, said: “Education City is an excellent venue for sports such as running, especially during events like this when all the roads at Education City are car-free.
“Education City is very green, and that really benefits our mental health. Running is great for my physical health, and it also helps clear my mind.”
