As summer begins to unfold, Visit Qatar sets the tone with its expansive Hala Summer campaign, running from April through September 2026. At the heart of this seasonal celebration lies the May edition of Qatar Calendar, a vibrant showcase of experiences that positions the country as a compelling summer destination in the region.
From world-class exhibitions and major sporting moments to immersive performances and family-friendly attractions, May offers a dynamic mix that captures the spirit of Doha and beyond.
Moments of entertainment
This month, the spotlight shines brightly on live entertainment. Families can step into the magical world of Fontana Circus, the Middle East’s first travelling water circus, running until May 31 at Hyatt Plaza. Meanwhile, fans of iconic pop culture bid farewell to The Legend: King of Pop Live, which concludes its run at Oasis Theatre in Mall of Qatar on May 2.
Theatre lovers have much to look forward to as well. Doha Players present Nine by Jane Shepard from May 13 to 15, while the Qatar National Convention Centre hosts the interactive musical Jamal Jamal during the first three days of Eid Al-Adha. Comedy takes centre stage with Wagef! featuring Mina Nader at Abdulaziz Nasser Theatre in Souq Waqif.
Music flows across the city with candlelit performances at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, where audiences can enjoy From Mozart to Chopin alongside Arabic and Western classics. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra brings a refined evening of Mozart and Bartók to Katara Opera House, while Heenat Salma Farm hosts a soulful tribute to Asha Bhosle.
For a more cultural family outing, Museum of Islamic Art presents Family Day: Hajj – Traditions, Art and Legacy, blending education with interactive experiences.
The spirit of competition
Sport takes centre stage this May, led by the highly anticipated Amir Cup Final 2026 at Khalifa International Stadium on May 9. The region also comes together for the 4th GCC Games from May 11 to 22, transforming multiple venues across the country into arenas of athletic excellence.
For those who prefer to participate rather than spectate, the QTRI Azure Beach Club Aquathlon on Qetaifan North Island offers an energising mix of swimming and running, welcoming athletes of all ages.
A cultural tapestry
May’s cultural calendar is equally compelling. The Doha International Book Fair 2026 returns to the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre from May 14 to 23, bringing together writers, readers and ideas from around the world. Later in the month, Sneaker Con Doha takes over the same venue, celebrating street culture and design.
Fashion and lifestyle enthusiasts can explore Zeenah at Galleria Al Hazm, while industry leaders gather at the Qatar Education Leadership Expo 2026 hosted at Radisson Blu Hotel Doha.
Across the country’s leading museums, exhibitions continue to enrich the cultural landscape. At Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf reflects on artistic evolution, while Empire of Light: Visions and Voices of Afghanistan remains on view at the Museum of Islamic Art. At the National Museum of Qatar, visitors can glimpse the future through A Sneak Peek at the Qatar Auto Museum Project.
Meanwhile, Fire Station: Artist in Residence continues to spotlight contemporary creativity with exhibitions by Ho Tzu Nyen, Haroon Mirza and Chung Seoyoung.
For those eager to engage more deeply, the Museum of Islamic Art’s Education Centre offers a curated series of workshops, from Nasta’liq calligraphy to drawing and mono-printing, inviting participants to explore artistic expression firsthand.
A season to experience
With its seamless blend of culture, entertainment and sport, May’s Qatar Calendar reflects a destination in motion; one that continues to evolve while offering something for every interest and age group. As the Hala Summer campaign unfolds, Qatar invites residents and visitors alike to step into a season defined by discovery, creativity and celebration.
