Doha, Qatar: The National Sports Day Committee outlined a set of criteria and conditions that government and private entities must follow when organising activities for National Sports Day 2026.
In a statement shared on January 12, 2026, the committee specified that activities should primarily focus on physical and movement-based sports, while avoiding ceremonial or show-style events that do not encourage direct participation.
Among the main conditions, organisers are advised not to construct tents or temporary sports facilities and instead make optimal use of existing sports venues, parks, and public spaces.
Entities are also required to comply with all security and safety regulations when conducting events.
The guidelines place strong emphasis on health-conscious practices.
Organisers are encouraged to provide healthy food options, avoid fast food, and refrain from distributing free meals or gifts to the public.
The committee also advised against holding entertainment, musical, or show-based performances, noting that such activities may shift the focus from participation to spectating, which contradicts the purpose of the day.
Rather than passive entertainment, the committee urged institutions to incorporate awareness initiatives that highlight the importance of sport as a daily habit and a foundation for long-term wellbeing.
The committee further stressed that all ministries, government entities, public institutions, and private-sector organisations operating in Qatar are obligated to adhere to these criteria.
The framework aligns with the objectives set out in Amiri Decision No. 80 of 2011, which established National Sports Day to promote a culture of physical activity across society.
National Sports Day, observed annually on the second Tuesday of February, has become a nationwide platform for encouraging residents to adopt more active lifestyles.
The latest guidelines signal a continued shift toward meaningful participation, measurable health impact, and long-term behavioural change rather than symbolic celebrations.
