With the advent of December, Qatar offers a rich and diverse calendar of cultural, sporting and entertainment events that meet all tastes. Whether you are interested in international art exhibitions, enjoying dazzling live performances, or looking to follow exciting sports competitions, the December calendar of events in Qatar promises to provide exceptional experiences that will satisfy everyone, making it an ideal destination to celebrate the end of the year in an atmosphere full of energy and creativity.
Commenting on the December events, Sheikha Noor Abdullah Al Thani, Head of Tourism Events and Festivals at Qatar Tourism, said: “As we approach the end of the year, we are proud to present a variety of events that highlight the richness of culture, arts and sporting events in Qatar. The December events are clear evidence of our commitment to providing distinctive and unique experiences that meet the aspirations of residents and visitors alike. It is not only a reflection of our vision, but also contributes to achieving sustainable growth for the tourism sector. Our goal is to continue providing exceptional moments that celebrate the spirit of Qatar and enhance its position globally.”
Building on the momentum of November, December brings a new wave of exciting events across the country, from immersive art exhibitions to vibrant markets and exciting live performances. Here’s a closer look at what to expect this festive month.
Exceptional artistic evenings
The month of December witnesses a variety of concerts, starting with Maroon 5’s concert on December 1. On December 6, the Qatar National Convention Center will also present a concert by the artist Angham, who will enchant her fans with a collection of her most beautiful songs. The center will also witness other distinguished concerts, including a performance by the Miami band, Nasser Al-Kubaisi and Youssef Al-Omani on December 17, a concert by the artist Khaled Abdul Rahman on December 19, and a concert “Our Evening Goes Different” with artists Mutrif Al-Mutrarif and Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi at the U Venue Theater, as well as a concert by international star Brian Adams on December 20 at the Qatar National Convention Centre.
Qatar is a global sports destination
Qatar continues its leadership by hosting the most prominent international sporting tournaments, and in an exciting start to the December sporting events comes the conclusion of the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix at Losail International Circuit on December 1.
Aspire Park will also host the finals of the World Professional Beach Volleyball Tour from December 4 to 7, and Ezdan Palace Hotel will also witness from December 4 to 14 the Qatar Billiards World Cup – 10 Ball, which brings together the best players from around the world. On the other hand, Fuwairit Beach will host the Freestyle Kitesurfing World Cup finals from December 10 to 14, providing water sports fans with the opportunity to enjoy exciting competitions in a picturesque natural setting. As for Losail International Circuit, it will be the focus of attention of racing sports fans, as it will host the Middle East and North Africa Nations Cup Karting Championship from December 17 to 21.
Also among the most prominent sporting events are the final rounds of the FIFA Confederations Cup 2024, which will be held from December 11 to 18, as it will witness strong competition between the elite of international clubs. Doha Golf Club also offers the UV Glow Race, which gives participants the opportunity to enjoy an innovative, fun and lively sporting atmosphere.
Equestrian sports fans can watch the Al Shaqab Race of Champions on December 27 and 28, which highlights the Qatari passion for equestrian sports.
December celebrates the arts
Qatar has a rich cultural scene that celebrates global art and local heritage through a distinguished array of exhibitions. The “Benshalal Exhibition: An Eternal Monument – Art that transcends time,” which is on display at the National Museum of Qatar until January 18, 2025, invites visitors to explore archaeological sculptures that combine the creativity of the past with a vision of the future. The “Between a Look and a Look: Jerome Art and Effect” exhibition will also continue at the Arab Museum of Modern Art until February 22, 2025, offering art lovers a unique experience with works that reflect the influence of the famous French painter from the nineteenth century. At the Museum of Islamic Art, the “Discover Morocco Exhibition,” which continues until February 26, 2025, offers a window into the ancient Moroccan artistic heritage, giving visitors an opportunity to delve deeper into the aesthetics of Moroccan culture. As for the “Journey Through the Golden Sands” exhibition, it will be held in Building 47 in the Katara Cultural District from December 24 to January 7, 2024, providing an innovative experience that highlights Qatar’s desert heritage in its charming details.
A unique shopping experience
The month of December in Qatar combines the splendor of exhibitions and a distinctive shopping experience, providing an opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of “Qatar winter” and celebrate culture and traditions.
For perfume lovers, the activities of the Tayyab Al Hazm Exhibition are still continuing at the Al Hazm Galleria until December 7th. From December 11th to the 21st, Al Hazm Galleria will also witness the third edition of the Raza Exhibition, which presents the most luxurious Qatari men’s accessories through designs by a group of talents from different parts of the world. In Education City, Turaba Market will continue until April 30, 2025, providing a weekly platform that brings together local farmers and organic produce for sustainable shopping enthusiasts. The Museum of Islamic Art Bazaar, which will be held in the museum’s garden until February 22, 2025, invites visitors to shop among a group of unique handicrafts and local products that reflect cultural diversity.
The Heina Salma Winter Bazaar continues to open its doors until December 2, bringing together the creativity of local craftsmen and entrepreneurs. It offers the opportunity to purchase unique and distinctive pieces that are worth collecting.
International conferences and exhibitions
In terms of international exhibitions and conferences, the Qatar National Convention Center will host the MENA FinTech Festival for financial technology from December 3 to 5, while the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center will host the Qatar International Healthcare Exhibition 2024.
For those wishing to follow intellectual discussions and the most prominent issues taking place on the global scene, you can register to attend the Doha Forum 2024 at the Sheraton Grand Resort and Convention Center on December 7 and 8, while the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center will witness the World Summit on Artificial Intelligence for the Middle East and North Africa region on December 10 and 11. December, with the participation of a group of experts and specialists in this field.
Qatar National Day celebrations
The activities of the month of December culminate in the celebrations of the National Day of the State of Qatar, which falls on December 18, when the country is decorated with a festive atmosphere that includes heritage performances and national marches that reflect pride in the Qatari identity. Al Baraha Cinema in Msheireb Downtown Doha also provides the opportunity to enjoy the most beautiful films from December 18 to January 4, 2024. For lovers of exceptional experiences, the Katara Cultural Village will host the fifth edition of the Qatar Balloon Festival from December 12 to 21, where the sky is decorated with illuminated balloons and fun artistic performances that provide… An exceptional experience for families and visitors of all ages.
Lusail Boulevard comes alive with pop-up weekend shows offering a vibrant mix of entertainment every weekend until December 31.