Multiple locations: Darb Al Saai, Doha Corniche, Katara Cultural Village and Mall of Qatar
Qatar National Day Celebrations
December 18, 2026
- Culture
National Day commemorates the unification of Qatar in 1878 and the day Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammad bin Thani, the country's founder, succeeded his father. Each year's slogan is drawn from his poetry.
Celebrations take place at several spots, including Darb Al Saai, the Doha Corniche, Katara Cultural Village and Mall of Qatar.
Held every year. See Qatar National Day dates for every year →
Event details
- Dates and times
- Fri 18 Dec 2026
- One day
- Times not published yet
- Where
- Multiple locations: Darb Al Saai, Doha Corniche, Katara Cultural Village and Mall of Qatar
- Directions →
Plan your visit
Getting there
Celebrations centre on the Doha Corniche. The official 2026 programme, including timings and any road closures, hasn't been published yet; this page will be updated when it is. On a busy holiday, the Doha Metro is usually the easiest way into the city centre.
What to expect
18 December is Qatar's national day and a public holiday, marking the country's founding. Expect flags, maroon and white everywhere, and large crowds along the Corniche. In recent years the Ministry of Culture has also run Darb Al Saai, a heritage festival in Umm Salal, for about ten days leading up to National Day; its 2026 dates haven't been announced.
Good to know
- Is Qatar National Day a public holiday?
- Yes. 18 December is a public holiday in Qatar, and many businesses and government offices close.
- When will the 2026 programme be announced?
- Usually in the weeks before. Check back here or follow the official announcements in early December.
Next step
Let the trip assistant build an itinerary timed to this event.
Take it with you
Something not right?
Hours, prices or details out of date? Owners, organisers and visitors can tell us.
Suggest a correctionAlso on in Qatar
More events you might like
Happening in QatarDoha Film Festival
Film screenings, talks and concerts from the Doha Film Institute, built around four competitions that include Made in Qatar.
From QAR 30
Happening in QatarDoha Forum 2026
The 24th Doha Forum, themed Redefining Global Trust, brings global leaders, policymakers and experts together for high-level dialogue.
Free; registration is mandatory
Free EntryQatar Esports Forum
A forum on the future of esports in Qatar, where local stakeholders and global leaders meet for panel discussions and talks.
Free entry