Qatar has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as announced by authorities on July 22, 2025. This ambitious initiative positions the wealthy Gulf state as a potential first-time host in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani stated, “The official bid submitted by the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games represents a new milestone in Qatar’s journey.” He highlighted Qatar’s successful track record, including hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, as evidence of the country’s readiness.
His Excellency the Prime Minister: Qatar’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics reflects its Stature on the International Sports Stage.
Press Release:https://t.co/K26NvY8GNZ#DOHA2036 #OLYMPICS pic.twitter.com/7tY6qtH0QY
— Team Qatar 🇶🇦 (@qatar_olympic) July 22, 2025QOC President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani emphasised the advantages of Qatar’s infrastructure, stating, “We currently have 95 per cent of the necessary sports facilities in place to host the Games, and we have a comprehensive national plan to ensure the full readiness of all venues.” This bid aligns with Qatar’s strategy to diversify its energy-dependent economy by hosting major sporting events.
Past events, such as the World Cup, have faced criticism from rights groups, including Amnesty International, regarding migrant worker deaths, a claim that Qatar disputes by reporting only 37 fatalities, of which three were work-related.
The IOC’s new president, Kirsty Coventry, will oversee the selection process. With recent Games in Europe (2024), North America (2028), and Oceania (2032), Asia or Africa could host the 2036 Games. Qatar’s bid fits this rotation.
