Doha Bids to Host 2036 Olympic, Paralympic Games

Doha has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Qatar’s authorities announced on Tuesday. If successful, Qatar would become the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to host the Olympic Games.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said the bid marks a major step forward for the nation, adding that it builds on Qatar’s success in hosting major sporting events — including the FIFA World Cup in 2022.

Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, said that sports are a key part of the country’s national strategy.

Rights groups, including Amnesty International, have criticized Qatar over the treatment of migrant workers, especially ahead of the 2022 World Cup. While some reports claimed thousands of deaths, Qatari officials say 37 workers died on tournament projects, with only three linked to work-related incidents.

Qatar hopes the 2036 Games will continue to boost its global profile and help diversify its economy beyond oil and gas.