Qatar submits bid to host 2036 Olympic, Paralympic Games

Qatar has launched a formal bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, aiming to become the first nation from the Middle East and North Africa to stage the global sporting event.

The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) confirmed the announcement, highlighting the country’s readiness after hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022. QOC President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani said that 95% of the required sports infrastructure is already in place, with plans underway to ensure full readiness well before the Games.

The QOC described the bid as part of a long-term national vision that extends beyond sport. The goal, it said, is to deliver an inclusive and sustainable Games that supports skill development, creates economic opportunities and encourages international cooperation.

Qatar’s bid comes as competition for the 2036 Games grows. Confirmed candidates include Istanbul, Ahmedabad, Nusantara and Santiago. Other potential bidders include Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Egypt, Germany, Italy, Denmark and Canada.

This is not Qatar’s first attempt. Previous bids for the 2016 and 2020 Olympics were unsuccessful, with the Games awarded to Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, respectively.

The Olympic calendar is already set through 2032, with Los Angeles hosting in 2028 and Brisbane in 2032. Doha, meanwhile, will host the Asian Games in 2030.

Qatar, along with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is also exploring a joint bid for the 2035 or 2039 Rugby World Cup.

The bid reflects a growing push by Gulf nations to position the region as a hub for global sporting events. Saudi Arabia, for instance, has secured the 2034 FIFA World Cup and will host the Asian Winter Games in 2029.

The International Olympic Committee, now led by President Kirsty Coventry, is in the process of reviewing how future Olympic hosts will be selected.