Qatar Enters Race to Host 2036 Olympic Games

Doha, Qatar – July 22, 2025

Qatar has officially announced its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games, joining other countries eager to welcome the world’s biggest sporting event. The Gulf nation submitted its formal letter of intent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), aiming to bring the Olympics to the Middle East for the first time in history.

This move comes after Qatar’s high-profile hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which drew global attention and praise for its world-class stadiums, infrastructure, and hospitality.

For many Qataris, this new bid represents pride—and a second chance to shine on the global stage.

“We showed the world what we can do with the World Cup,” said Fatima Al-Kuwari, a school teacher in Doha. “Hosting the Olympics would mean even more opportunities for our youth and our future.”

Others, however, are asking important questions.

“It’s exciting, yes—but what about the cost?” asked Yousef Hamad, a shop owner. “We still have challenges at home. I hope this doesn’t take away from improving people’s lives.”

What Hosting the Olympics Could Mean

If successful, Qatar would become the first Middle Eastern country to host the Summer Olympics—a huge milestone in the Olympic movement’s goal to become more inclusive and global. It would also mark another step in Qatar’s plan to position itself as a major international hub for sports, culture, and tourism.

But experts warn that hosting the Olympics comes with big responsibilities:

• Cost: Olympic Games are expensive, often costing billions of dollars.

• Climate: Qatar’s hot summer weather may raise concerns about athlete safety, unless the event is moved to cooler months.

• Human Rights and Labor: Past criticism over migrant workers’ conditions could return to the spotlight.

Still, many believe Qatar is ready.

“We already have the stadiums, the hotels, the transportation,” said Dr. Leila Mansour, a sports development expert. “Now it’s about trust—proving we can deliver again, and better.”

The International Olympic Committee is expected to make a decision in the coming years. Until then, Qatar’s bid has sparked both hope and debate—on the streets, in homes, and across the world.