“MOVE” Sports Festival Kicks off Today at Old Doha Port
Panel discussions open with “Samla: More Than Just a Race”
Once a historic commercial harbor, Old Doha Port is a bustling lifestyle destination that blends Doha’s rich seafaring legacy with innovative0 marine services, sustainable practices, and cultural depth. Serving as the world’s maritime gateway to Qatar, the centrally located port features a world-class 450-berth marina, a 24/7 operating cruise terminal, the nation’s largest slipway, over 250,000 square meters of greenery, and vibrant cultural spaces like the Mina District and Containers Yard.
With offerings ranging from watersports and cultural experiences to art installations and major events like the annual Qatar Boat Show and fishing competitions, Old Doha Port celebrates Qatar’s legacy while pioneering its maritime future and enhancing its global tourism profile.
Doha, Qatar – 5 February 2026 – MOVE, Old Doha Port’s six-day sports and wellness festival, launched today, inviting visitors to explore expert-led panels, interactive fitness zones, and a diverse lineup of sports and wellness experiences at Mina Park. Day 1 featured a series of fitness classes, including mobility-focused workouts and women’s fitness classes delivered by A13 Academy and Matrix Gym, with guided sessions designed to support flexibility, strength, and recovery for participants of all fitness levels. A key highlight of the opening day was the panel discussion, “Samla: More than Just a Race,” which explored the evolution of Samla from a homegrown endurance race into a nationally recognised symbol of resilience and determination. The discussion featured Eng. Azzam Al-Mannai, CEO of the Samla Race Organizing Committee, Abdulaziz Al Tamimi, President of the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation, and Abdullah Shaheen Al Kaabi, CEO of A13 Academy. Speakers shared insights into the values behind Samla, the role of endurance sports in shaping mindset and discipline, and the growing culture of fitness challenges in Qatar. Across the festival, visitors explored immersive zones showcasing sportswear, equipment, and marine sports, alongside a range of family-friendly activities. A curated selection of food and beverage outlets offering fresh and healthy options complemented the festival atmosphere. MOVE continues at Old Doha Port until 10 February. From 5–9 February, the festival runs daily from 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM, while on Qatar National Sports Day, 10 February, activities will take place from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM.