Qatar has officially confirmed discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over the selection process for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, signaling its ambition to host the world’s largest sporting event.
The Gulf nation, which successfully hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and the Asian Cup in 2024, is joining a competitive race with bids from Indonesia, Turkiye, India, and Chile. Other countries considering a bid include Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Egypt, Hungary, Italy, Germany, Denmark, and Canada.
Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), said the country already has 95% of the required sports infrastructure in place. Doha plans to achieve full readiness with a long-term strategy focused on social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
If successful, Qatar would become the first Middle Eastern nation to host the Olympic Games. The bid comes as the region increases its influence over global sports, with Saudi Arabia set to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Qatar’s capital Doha will also host the 2030 Asian Games, further showcasing its growing credentials as a sports hub.
