Qatar ushers in February 2026 with a vibrant month-long lineup of activities spanning technology, culture, sport, and community engagement. The latest edition of Qatar Calendar showcases an array of international conferences, artistic exhibitions, outdoor festivals, live entertainment, and family-friendly experiences that reflect the nation’s dynamic cultural scene and growing status as a global hub for events.

Whether visitors are drawn to world-class equestrian tournaments, music concerts, or cutting-edge business summits, February offers something for everyone across Doha and beyond.

Heritage, culture, and outdoor experiences

Qatar’s natural landscapes and cultural diversity take the spotlight with an eclectic mix of heritage events and lifestyle experiences.

• Brouq 2026 continues in the picturesque desert terrain of Zekreet until February 10, blending luxury glamping, fine dining, art, and adventure for those seeking an escape into Qatar’s rugged beauty. The event offers visitors a chance to unwind under the stars while engaging in curated cultural and environmental activities.

• The Qatar Camel Festival 2026, ongoing at the Qatar Camel Mzayen Club until February 10, gathers camel owners and enthusiasts from across the GCC. It features traditional races, beauty contests, and cultural showcases celebrating the region’s enduring desert heritage.

• Kazakhstan Cultural Week, hosted at Darb Al Saai from February 4 to 7, forms part of the Ministry of Culture’s Cultural Weeks programme that fosters cross-border cultural exchange. The event offers vibrant performances, art exhibitions, and cultural workshops that underscore Qatar’s commitment to international collaboration through culture.

• Food lovers can look forward to the Throwback Food Festival 2026, which opens at Old Doha Port on February 16 and runs until March 19. It offers a nostalgic twist on traditional recipes paired with modern culinary creativity, all within a scenic coastal setting.

• Meanwhile, the 4th Pearl Ramadan Bazaar, running from February 17 to March 23, transforms The Pearl and Gewan Islands into lively cultural hotspots with shopping stalls, food outlets, and family activities, including Garangao celebrations.

• Lagoona Mall Ramadan Nights, held every Thursday to Saturday from February 19 to March 14, animates the North Court Lobby with entertaining cultural showcases, crafts, and live performances between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Business, culture, and major events

Qatar’s reputation as a rising global nexus for innovation and enterprise continues to grow, with several high-profile conferences and exhibitions anchoring the February calendar.

• The global tech community will descend on Doha for Web Summit Qatar 2026, taking place from February 1 to 4 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center. The event brings together entrepreneurs, tech visionaries, and investors to exchange ideas shaping the digital world—from artificial intelligence and fintech to sustainable innovation.

• The 21st International Conference and Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2026) follows at the Qatar National Convention Center from February 2 to 5, gathering policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts to discuss the latest developments and future outlook of the LNG sector—an industry integral to Qatar’s economic landscape.

• Art enthusiasts can experience a historic moment with the debut of Art Basel Qatar, held at M7 and the Doha Design District from February 5 to 7. The exhibition brings leading international galleries and contemporary artists under one roof, positioning Doha as a new cultural capital on the global art map.

• The Rouda Almalki Event, running from February 11 to 16 at QNCC, offers a women-centric exhibition spotlighting Ramadan and Eid preparations through fashion, perfumes, design, and luxury dining—creating a one-stop destination for seasonal inspiration.

• From February 12 to 16, AgriteQ 2026: Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition at Katara Cultural Village highlights the nation’s progress in sustainable farming, food security, and agritech innovation, featuring global experts, exhibitors, and investors in the green economy.

Sporting events and international competitions

Qatar’s sporting tradition continues to shine in February with a packed calendar of professional and community events attracting elite athletes and local participants alike.

• The Qatar Masters Golf Championship 2026, now in its 29th year, returns to Doha Golf Club from February 5 to 8 with a lineup of top golfers competing for regional glory and world ranking points.

• The 8th Al Adaid Desert Challenge takes place on February 6 in Sealine, testing endurance across sand dunes with mountain bike, duathlon, and trail-running categories for amateur and professional athletes.

• On February 7, the QTRI Meryal Waterpark Aquathlon kicks off the Qatari Islands Aquathlon Series at Qetaifan Island North, combining swimming and running in a race set against a striking coastal backdrop.

• Tennis fans can expect exciting matches at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open 2026, running from February 8 to 14 at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. The WTA 1000 tournament welcomes some of the world’s leading women’s players for a week of top-tier competition.

• On February 10, the capital will pulse with energy during Education City Run: Color Edition and the QOC Half Marathon 2026, encouraging community participation in fitness at Education City Stadium and Lusail Boulevard, respectively.

• Qatar’s annual National Sport Day celebrations, also on February 10, will feature family-friendly sporting events at Aspire Park—as well as walkathons, fitness zones, and recreational activities throughout The Pearl and Gewan Islands.

• The prestigious HH The Amir’s Sword International Equestrian Festival 2026, held from February 11 to 14 at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, welcomes top riders and horses for one of the region’s most esteemed equestrian competitions.

• CHI Al Shaqab Presented by Longines, from February 19 to 21, continues the momentum with show-jumping, dressage, and para-equestrian disciplines that attract world champions and showcase Doha’s leadership in the global equestrian arena.

• Rounding off the month’s athletic highlights, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2026 takes place from February 16 to 21 at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, uniting top-tier ATP players for thrilling men’s singles and doubles action.

Concerts, live shows, and entertainment

February in Doha also delivers a full schedule of entertainment, blending classical performances, modern theatre, and international tours.

• The theatrical production “Warth Obona” runs at U Venue Theatre from February 5 to 6, captivating audiences with a blend of suspense, humor, and youthful energy.

• On February 7, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra presents Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony under the baton of Maestro Pablo Mielgo at the Opera House in Katara Cultural Village. The concert also includes works by Brahms and Strauss, delivering a night of timeless classics.

• The improv comedy show “3a Ka3ba”, taking place on February 12 at La Cigale Hotel’s Wajba Ballroom, invites laughter and audience participation with spontaneous, unscripted sketches.

• Classical Arabesque, another performance by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra on February 14, celebrates Arab musical heritage with elegant orchestrations at Katara’s Opera House.

• Also on February 14, music lovers can enjoy Cup of Joe’s Stardust International World Tour 2026 live at the Qatar National Convention Center, marking the Filipino pop band’s first-ever concert in Doha.

Spanning art, sport, business, and leisure, February’s Qatar Calendar cements the country’s place as a destination where global creativity meets local culture, offering memorable experiences under its winter skies.

Saudi Arabia’s tourist accommodation facility management sector recorded significant growth in commercial registrations, with the total rising 29 percent year-on-year by the end of the third quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Commerce reported.

The Kingdom had 20,560 active registrations in the sector at the end of September, an increase of 4,595 from the 15,965 recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

Makkah led the country’s regions with 8,075 active commercial registrations, followed by Riyadh with 7,110 and Madinah with 1,988.

The Eastern Province ranked fourth with 1,456 registrations, while Asir completed the list of the five regions with the highest number of active registrations.

Source: Saudi Gazette

Off the coast of Jeddah, Thuwal Private Retreat offers a secluded island getaway that sets itself apart from conventional luxury resorts. Described as Saudi Arabia’s only private island available for exclusive buyout, the retreat accommodates one group at a time, offering privacy and a personalised stay surrounded by the Red Sea.

The 40-minute boat journey from the mainland provides a gradual escape from everyday routines. As the island comes into view, the sense of separation from the outside world becomes increasingly apparent.

The arrival experience reflects the attention to detail that defines the retreat. Before guests reach the marina, the team gathers practical information, including shoe sizes, to ensure equipment such as snorkelling gear is ready upon arrival.

Privacy and Saudi Hospitality

Thuwal Private Retreat accommodates up to 12 adults and three children across six beachfront villas. With the entire island reserved for a single group, guests can enjoy a stay tailored to their preferences.

The experience is shaped by hafawah, a Saudi tradition associated with generous and heartfelt hospitality. Rather than feeling formal or scripted, the service is characterised by personal attention and a welcoming atmosphere.

During an introduction to the island, guests learn about its history and natural environment, including the Turquoise Hole, a distinctive natural water formation.

One of the retreat’s principal gathering places is the Overwater Diwaniya, a relaxed venue above the sea. It serves as a setting for breakfast, coffee, lunch and sunset gatherings, bringing guests together throughout the day.

Dining Above the Red Sea

Dining is another highlight, with menus featuring fresh seafood, barbecue dishes, colourful salads and daily grilled specialities. The combination of relaxed service and an exclusive waterfront setting gives meals an informal yet refined character.

Watching the Maldivian chef prepare food over charcoal adds a personal element to the experience, turning meals into part of the island’s wider appeal.

Across the stay, the hospitality team maintains a consistent focus on warmth, attentiveness and generosity. The service feels natural, with staff taking pride in making guests comfortable.

A Villa Designed Around Nature

Royal Villa One offers a private setting where natural materials and expansive views connect the interior with the surrounding landscape.

Bamboo ceilings, earthy textures and floor-to-ceiling glass walls bring the outdoors into the living spaces, with views of the sea visible from almost every corner.

The bedroom features a canopy bed and flowing fabric details, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. Even smaller elements, including the slippers, reflect the attention given to comfort.

In the bathroom, a glass-walled shower overlooks a private garden. Toiletries and grooming essentials are carefully arranged to make the stay convenient.

Outside, a secluded garden leads to a private dining area overlooking the water, creating an intimate setting for meals and quiet moments.

Exploring the Island’s Marine Life

The Red Sea is central to the retreat’s appeal. Its changing shades of blue provide a backdrop for activities including snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Guided snorkelling excursions take guests to coral reefs and less-explored areas around the island. Underwater cameras provided by the guides allow visitors to capture the experience without having to manage their own equipment throughout the trip.

The excursions offer a closer look at the marine environment while allowing guests to remain immersed in the experience.

Wellness and Memorable Evenings

The island’s spa provides another opportunity to unwind. A floral foot ritual and citrus aromatherapy begin the treatment, followed by a massage designed to promote relaxation.

The spa experience combines professional treatment with a calm setting, complementing the retreat’s emphasis on slowing down and enjoying the surroundings.

Evenings bring a different atmosphere. Sunsets beside the pool transform the sky into shades of gold and blue, while seabirds occasionally add to the stillness of the scene.

The programme also includes hands-on and social activities. Guests can make manakish with the chef, take part in group pizza sessions, enjoy long lunches beside the sea or watch a film during a beach cinema evening.

These experiences provide variety without taking away from the island’s defining sense of tranquillity.

An Escape That Lingers

Leaving Thuwal Private Retreat can be an emotional experience, particularly after several days of personalised service and shared activities. The farewell from the team, with staff waving as the boat departs, reinforces the personal connections built during the stay.

The retreat’s appeal lies not only in its villas, marine activities or dining, but also in the opportunity to step away from everyday demands and experience the Red Sea at a slower pace.

For travellers seeking privacy, thoughtful hospitality and a close connection with nature, Thuwal Private Retreat offers a distinctive island escape along Saudi Arabia’s western coast.

Source: Arab News

Waterfront walkways developed by Jazan Municipality are creating new opportunities for coastal tourism and outdoor recreation along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea shoreline.

The pedestrian routes extend from the coast towards the sea, providing visitors with opportunities to enjoy marine views, observe aquatic life and watch sunsets.

Among the key attractions is the 600-metre Sunset Walkway, which includes 55 seating areas, illuminated pedestrian paths, children's play zones, public facilities and retail kiosks. The commercial spaces also provide opportunities for local families involved in cottage industries to sell their products.

The walkway offers panoramic views of the Red Sea while creating a space for leisure activities and family outings.

Jazan Municipality spokesperson Dr. Ibrahim Al-Khayyat said the projects make use of the region’s coastal landscape to develop accessible public spaces and encourage greater recreational activity.

He added that the developments are expected to stimulate commercial investment in cafés and retail outlets while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives, particularly the Quality of Life programme.

Source: SPA

The distinctive rock formations of Saudi Arabia’s Hima Cultural Area shape its rugged landscape, blending natural beauty with archaeological evidence of human history across the Arabian Peninsula.

The rocks display a range of natural colours, including brown, orange, gold and earthy red. These hues become particularly vivid at sunrise and shortly before sunset, enhancing the area's visual appeal.

Archaeologist and tour organiser Mohammed Al-Mustaneer said the formations are closely connected to the site's archaeological importance. Their surfaces preserve ancient inscriptions, drawings and writings that provide evidence of human activity in the region over successive historical periods.

The rock art offers insights into the lives of communities that once inhabited or travelled through the area. The inscriptions and images help document their lifestyles, migration routes, hunting and herding activities, as well as the symbols and forms of expression they left behind.

Beyond its geological features, the Hima Cultural Area serves as an important natural and archaeological landmark, reflecting Najran's rich cultural heritage. Its combination of ancient human records and striking landscapes also highlights the region's potential as a destination for cultural tourism.

Preserving the site allows its historical evidence and natural features to remain accessible to visitors while safeguarding an important part of the Arabian Peninsula's heritage for future generations.

Source: SPA

The coast of Jabal Kushkush in the Farasan Islands Governorate of Jazan Region preserves a legacy of traditional pearl diving, having once served as an important anchorage for vessels returning from expeditions at sea.

Tour guide Othman Humuq said pearl divers historically used the coastal site as a sheltered place to rest, secure their boats and open oyster shells after their journeys. Local fishermen also relied on the surrounding waters for their activities.

Located near Abu Al-Tawq village on Farasan Al-Sughra island, approximately 60 kilometres from Farasan City, the area is widely known as Kushkush Beach.

The site is distinguished by its unusual geological landscape, featuring sea caves, rock cavities, natural passageways and large umbrella-shaped rock formations. These structures rise between three and six metres, giving the coastline its distinctive appearance.

With much of its natural environment remaining undisturbed, Jabal Kushkush continues to draw tourists and visitors seeking a quiet coastal escape. Visitor numbers tend to increase during the winter season, when the site’s natural scenery becomes a particular attraction.

The area offers a glimpse of the Farasan Islands’ maritime heritage while showcasing the geological features and coastal landscapes that contribute to Jazan Region’s tourism appeal.

Source: SPA