- Women’s sports participation at Education City Stadium saw a 140% increase, highlighting the success of exclusive facilities.
- Volkswagen Middle East-sponsored initiatives empowered women with football tournaments and specialized fitness challenges.
- Qatar Foundation is building a lasting impact by establishing a year-round program to encourage female sports engagement.
Doha, Qatar – Thousands of women gathered at Education City Stadium on National Sports Day, celebrating an active and inclusive approach to fitness and wellness. Led by Qatar Foundation (QF) Chairperson HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the event transformed the stadium into a hub for female-focused sports activities, reinforcing the importance of health and community engagement.
A Day of Empowerment and Fitness
The event featured a range of activities, from high-energy fitness challenges to team sports. Sheikha Moza officially flagged off the cycling segment of the Education City Triathlon, which included swimming, cycling, and running. She also toured different activity zones alongside QF Vice-Chairperson and CEO HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani.
A highlight of the day was the Women’s and Girls’ Football Initiative, sponsored by Volkswagen Middle East, where Sheikha Hind and para-athlete Zainab Al Eqabi awarded the winning teams. Al Eqabi, a Volkswagen Middle East brand ambassador, emphasized the event’s holistic impact. “Staying active isn’t just about physical health—it strengthens the mind, fosters community bonds, and inspires positive lifestyle changes,” she said.
A Significant Surge in Participation
Education City’s women-only activities saw record-breaking attendance, with a 140% increase in unique participants compared to previous years. According to Dana El Ghazal, QF’s Communication Outreach Specialist, this surge is due to the exclusive facilities designed specifically for women. “We’ve created a space where women feel comfortable, motivated, and empowered to engage in sports regularly,” she noted.
In addition to football and fitness challenges, participants engaged in volleyball, basketball, swimming, squash, and tennis. The Family Zone at Oxygen Park also provided interactive fitness classes and team-based challenges for all ages.
Building a Lasting Impact
QF is committed to fostering a lasting impact beyond National Sports Day. The organization has developed a rich calendar of weekly programs at Education City to ensure continuous engagement in women’s sports. These initiatives are set to transform the stadium into a year-round hub for female fitness and athletic development.
National Sports Day 2025 was not just about a single event—it was a movement towards an inclusive, healthier future for women in Qatar.
