Elevating the city’s sporting landscape with a dynamic new season: How the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture is shaping a premier winter sports legacy in Doha.
In the world of international cultural exchange, few things are as unexpected or as exhilarating as finding the precision of curling and the high-speed intensity of ice hockey at the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.
On Thursday, 30 April 2026, the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena transforms into the stage for a new sporting chapter, as Years of Culture and the Qatar Winter Sports Committee officially pull back the curtain on their 2026 Winter Sports Development Programme.
Part of the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture, this is not just a one-off exhibition; it is the debut of a year-round commitment to carving out a permanent, sustainable home for winter sports in Qatar.
By blending professional-grade technical development with inclusive, family-oriented open houses, the programme invites everyone, from the curious spectator to the aspiring athlete, to lace up their skates and redefine what a desert sporting landscape can look like.
The momentum continues seamlessly into the summer months. Hosted entirely at the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, the ongoing programming is completely free to attend and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. From watching local expats go head-to-head to stepping onto the ice yourself, here is what’s happening on the rink this season.
July Highlights at ABHA
As the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena prepares for upcoming venue works ahead of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, Years of Culture brings the Winter Sports Development Programme to a close with a final series of ice activities in Doha. This is your last chance to experience winter sports at the arena before the programme transitions to its next destination.
Ice Hockey Open House
Saturday, 11 July | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Step onto the ice for a beginner-friendly introduction to ice hockey and discover the sport’s fast-paced energy in a welcoming community setting.
Ice Hockey Series Game
Saturday, 11 July | 7:10 PM – 8:20 PM
Catch the excitement of a live ice hockey match as local teams face off in one of the final opportunities to watch the action at ABHA Arena this season.
Ice Skating Open House
Saturday, 11 July | 8:30 PM – 9:45 PM
After the game, the rink opens to the public for a family-friendly skating session, offering a final chance to glide across the ice and enjoy the arena atmosphere.
Curling Come & Try Session
Tuesday, 14 July | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wrap up the series with a hands-on curling session designed for all ages and experience levels. Learn the basics, try the sport for yourself, and be part of the final winter sports moment at the arena.
These final sessions offer a rare chance to experience Doha’s growing winter sports scene before this chapter at ABHA Arena comes to a close.
The June Lineup
3-on-3 U11 Ice Hockey Tournament
Saturday, 6 June | 11:00 – 13:00
Watch the next generation of winter athletes take the ice. This fast-paced youth tournament promotes teamwork, agility, and creativity for players under 11 years old.
Short Track & Skating Open House
Saturday, 6 June | 13:20 – 15:00
Open skating experiences introducing short track disciplines to the public.
Curling Open House - Come & Try
Sunday, 7 June | 18:00 – 20:00
The regular community sessions continue. Drop in for an all-ages introduction to curling, guided by experts to help you master the fundamentals.
Canadian-Qatar Expat Curling Game
Tuesday, 9 June | 18:00 – 20:00
The cross-cultural curling series returns. Bring your captain and register your four-person team on the day to participate in this community-driven match.
Ice Hockey Open House
Saturday, 13 June | 13:00 – 14:15
Ever wanted to handle a puck? Join this community try-out and skills session, welcoming all ages and experience levels to learn the basics of ice hockey in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
What’s On This May
Curling Open House - Come & Try
Sunday, 24 May | From 4:00 PM
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, this public introductory session is open to all ages. Step onto the ice and experience the strategic precision of curling firsthand.
Canada-Qatar Expat Ice Hockey Series & Open Skate
Monday, 25 May | From 19:00
Feel the adrenaline of live ice hockey as local expat teams face off. Once the final buzzer sounds at 20:08, the rink opens to the public until 21:50 for a short-track skating open house, allowing the community to test their own speed on the ice.
Canadian-Qatar Expat Curling Game
Tuesday, 26 May | 18:00 – 20:00
A friendly but competitive evening designed to connect the Canadian and Qatari communities. Grab three friends and register your team of four at the door to test your skills on the sheet.
