Qatar's Grand Polo Debut

A synthetic grass field, unique in the world, will be built at the port in Qatar.

In a press conference with accredited media from around the world, the Qatar Polo Club (QPC), under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, announced the launch of Polo Al Marsa Qatar, the country’s first-ever polo showcase, presented by Qatar Calendar.

Taking place from December 11 to 13 at Terminal Park, Old Doha Port, the event will debut exhibition polo in a purpose-built grass arena. It will feature a sporting festival of high-caliber polo matches, cultural showcases, hospitality, and horsemanship. Players from Argentina and Chile will join the showcase as part of the Qatar-Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture, an initiative that spearheads long-lasting cultural partnerships between Qatar and other nations.

Over three days, spectators will experience the excitement of polo, from a Juniors play-off and a Women’s exhibition match to the Years of Culture Championship Cup. The event celebrates how sport brings people together and builds trust between nations, with a special focus on Argentina and Chile. At the heart of the competition is the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup, where Qatari and international players will compete in mixed teams, marking a landmark sporting debut for the country.

Commenting on the announcement, Qatar Polo Club Chairman Ashraf Abuissa said: “As the official home of polo in the country, our mission is to celebrate equestrian and athletic excellence and raise awareness of this sport. Polo has long been part of the culture and sporting landscape of our region for centuries, symbolizing skill, unity, and tradition.”

Qatar Polo Club Director General Fuad Almudahka added: “Polo AlMarsa reflects our commitment to rekindling this heritage sport, enabling us to create a new tradition that connects our community, honors our equestrian culture, and elevates local talent on an international stage.

The three-day program begins with the Polo AlMarsa Youth Camp on Day 1, December 11, followed by two days of polo matches and experiences at the Old Doha Port. The event will combine international exhibition polo with hospitality, entertainment, cultural shows, family activities, international cuisine, fashion, and art.

Day two, the official first day of Polo AlMarsa Qatar on December 12, includes an exhilarating welcome parade with over 50 horses and an official opening ceremony hosted by the Years of Culture and Chile, featuring a world-class Chilean Cultural Horse Show. This will be followed by the Mini Mallet Cup, a Women’s Exhibition Match, and the Years of Culture Championship Cup, celebrating the great bond between Argentina, Chile, and Qatar.

The International Day of Polo, hosted on Day 3, December 13, will be headlined by the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup. Guests will also enjoy a Historical Horse Show, heritage demonstrations, the closing awards ceremony, and the finale of Fashions on the Field.

Throughout the event, the Polo Village will be a lively hub with food trucks, retail pop-ups, live entertainment, and cultural and family activities. Those seeking elevated comfort can access ticketed lounges with prime pitch-side views and dining, while exclusive VIP and sponsor lounges will offer tailored spaces for dignitaries and partners.

Tickets are now on sale on the event's official website and can be purchased for $16.