Qatar Olympic Committee confirms participation in ongoing discussions to host 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games
The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) has officially confirmed its participation in ongoing discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as part of the new host city selection process for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This step reflects the State of Qatar’s strong commitment to supporting the Olympic and Paralympic movements, contributing actively to the development of global sport, and promoting sport as a bridge for communication, mutual understanding, and empowerment—particularly among youth. It also reaffirms Qatar’s adoption of the concept of “Sport for Peace” as a core principle of its national vision, recognizing sport as a tool for fostering unity, reducing division, and achieving stability.
On this occasion, His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Bid Committee, said:
“We believe in the power of sport to bring people and cultures closer together, empower individuals, and unlock human potential—especially among youth. Our participation in the ongoing dialogue to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games is rooted in a national vision that views sport as a driver of development and a platform to promote understanding and peace among nations. We have made sport a central pillar of our national strategy, and today we seek to expand that role both regionally and globally by presenting a new model that reflects the diversity of our region and celebrates its core human values.”
He added:
“We currently have 95% of the required sports infrastructure in place to host the Olympics, with a comprehensive national plan that will ensure 100% readiness. This plan is based on a long-term vision to build a sustainable social, economic, and environmental legacy. Our goal is not just to host a successful event, but to deliver a world-class experience that embodies the values of inclusivity, sustainability, and international cooperation.”
This initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which places human, social, and economic development at its core. It also supports the Third National Development Strategy, which emphasizes the importance of investing in sport and culture to build vibrant communities, encourage active participation, and foster social cohesion and sustainable well-being.
Qatar has an impressive track record of hosting major international sporting events, having organized 18 world championships over the past 20 years, including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™—widely regarded as the best edition in the tournament’s history—the 2015 IHF World Men’s Handball Championship, the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships, the 2024 World Aquatics Championships, and the upcoming 2025 World Table Tennis Championships. Qatar has also hosted major multi-sport events, most notably the 2006 Asian Games, and is set to host other global competitions such as the 2026 ISSF World Shooting Championships, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, and the 2030 Asian Games.
The QOC emphasized that its vision for hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games goes beyond operational readiness—it represents a national agenda that positions sport as a platform for youth empowerment, knowledge transfer, innovation, and the advancement of environmental and social priorities, in line with modern Olympic ideals and the values of the State.
It also highlighted the extensive consultations taking place with local and regional partners as part of the bid process, stressing the harmony between Qatar’s field readiness and its long-term strategic vision. The upcoming stages of the bid will follow the highest standards, in close cooperation with both the IOC and the International Paralympic Committee, to present an exceptional bid to host this global event.
The QOC affirmed that, if awarded the honour of hosting, Qatar would become the first Middle Eastern and North African country to host the Olympic Games, offering a unique Arab Olympic model grounded in diversity, openness, and a lasting legacy. The bid also aims to highlight the power of sport in spreading hope and peace, increasing regional representation, and showcasing the potential of Arab youth.
