Qatar has taken an important step in prioritising the health and well-being of its people by becoming the first country in the world to dedicate a day to sports. National Sport Day, celebrated annually on the second Tuesday in February, is more than just a holiday — it’s a commitment to fostering a healthier, more active population. The primary goal of this day is to encourage the practice of physical activity and to raise awareness about the significant health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. By promoting sports and active living, Qatar underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy population for the overall prosperity of the nation. The first National Sport Day was held in 2012. The Amiri Resolution No 80 of 2011 designated the second Tuesday of February of each year to be National Sport Day for the State of Qatar, when everyone is encouraged to participate in sporting activities and adopt it as a lifestyle. Qatar is celebrating 2025 National Sport Day today. Beyond an array of events in Doha and Lusail, cities such as Al Rayyan, Al Wakrah, Umm Salal and Al Khor will also be buzzing with sports activities with additional activations at Sealine. The Ministry of Municipality has completed preparations at Qatar’s beaches to accommodate visitors for National Sport Day. The beaches will feature sports fields, designated play zones for children and landscaped green spaces to provide a comfortable environment for the day’s activities. A major highlight of the day will be the inaugural Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Half Marathon 2025 set to take place at Lusail Boulevard. This eagerly-awaited event will bring together professional athletes and amateur runners from around the world, with participants from over 100 nationalities confirmed. The Qatar Foundation will also organise several events with the Education City Run serving as one of its marquee activations. The Old Doha Port will also come alive with a variety of activities designed for families and sports enthusiasts. In collaboration with key ministries and national organisations, the programme will include public sports activations, open-water activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, interactive games and workshops focused on fitness and sustainability. For horse enthusiasts, Al Shaqab and Qatar Reads, under the inspiring theme “Horses and Reading,” will host an event at Oxygen Park featuring several attractive activities, including horseback rides for adults, offering them the chance to experience the elegance and grace of riding.
