GCC Athletes Gear Up for “Doha 2026” as Organising Committees Raise the Pace of Preparations for the 4th Gulf Games 2026

DOHA - The organizing committees of the 4th GCC Games Doha 2026 have significantly accelerated their preparations as the countdown begins for the highly anticipated regional event, set to take place from 11 to 22 May.These extensive preparations reflect a firm commitment to delivering an exceptional edition that showcases Qatar’s distinguished standing in both sport and event organization, while reaffirming the nation’s proven ability to host regional and international competitions in line with the highest global standards.All committees are working in close coordination to complete every logistical, technical, and organizational detail, ensuring a memorable edition of the Games. The event will bring together an elite field of athletes from across the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, competing in 19 different sports, including handball, table tennis, athletics, squash, padel, fencing, boxing, taekwondo, karate, swimming, billiards, snooker, basketball (5x5 and 3x3), shooting, archery, volleyball, equestrian, and bowling, highlighting the diversity of competition and enhancing the sporting and fan appeal of the event.In this regard, Mohammed  Issa Al Fadala, Chairman of the Sports Committee, confirmed that technical preparations are progressing according to a carefully structured plan designed to ensure every competition is staged at the highest possible level. He noted that the committee is committed to creating the ideal environment for athletes by preparing venues to international standards and coordinating closely with sports federations to provide a world-class competitive atmosphere.For her part, Mrs. Eman Al Emadi, Chairwoman of the Services Committee, stated that work is continuing around the clock to deliver a seamless experience for all delegations.She said: “We are focusing on every detail related to transportation, accommodation, and hospitality, while striving to provide smooth and distinguished services that reflect Qatar’s renowned hospitality and ensure the comfort of all participants throughout the Games.”Meanwhile, Salah Al Saadi, Chairman of the Venues Committee, stressed the readiness of the sporting facilities, saying: “All venues have been fully prepared to the highest specifications, with operational testing carried out to ensure complete efficiency and to deliver an integrated organizational experience for this Gulf event.”In turn, Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud Al Thani, Chairman of the Marketing and Communications Committee, confirmed that promotional activities for the Games have already begun. He explained that the marketing strategy aims to boost spectator attendance and deepen engagement with the event through innovative campaigns that highlight the importance and history of the Games, while also showcasing the athletes who will compete.The organizing committee is overseeing the competitions in accordance with the highest technical and organizational standards across 10 state-of-the-art sporting venues, including Aspire Dome, the Women’s Sports Hall, the Hamad Aquatic Centre, Qatar Sports Club, the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, the Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation Hall, Al Gharafa Sports Club, the Lusail Shooting Range, the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, the Qatar Bowling Federation Hall, and Al Duhail Sports Hall, ensuring a world-class hosting experience worthy of the scale of the event.These continued efforts underline the organizing committee’s determination to deliver an extraordinary edition of the 4th GCC Games “Doha 2026” one that reflects the highest standards of excellence in event management and the continued development of GCC sport.Beyond competition, this edition also aims to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among the youth of the GCC nations, promote the noble values of sport, and create a distinguished competitive atmosphere that helps discover emerging talent, refine athletic potential, and support Gulf sport’s continued rise on both the regional and international stage.Earlier, the organizing committee unveiled the official emblem of the Games, inspired by the palm tree, one of the most deeply rooted symbols of Gulf heritage and identity. The choice reflects the shared values that unite Gulf societies, including resilience, endurance, generosity, patience, and a profound connection to the land.The emblem embodies authentic Gulf identity passed down through generations. Its design features six palm fronds representing the six GCC nations, arranged in a flowing visual form that conveys the spirit of sport, while the negative space at the centre forms the number four, symbolising the fourth edition of the Games.The first edition of the GCC Games was held in Manama, Bahrain, from 11 to 22 October 2011, with participation from six GCC nations and nearly 1,500 athletes competing in 11 sports. Qatar finished third with 20 medals, including 7 gold, 11 silver, and 2 bronze.The second edition took place in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, from 12 to 26 October 2015, with five GCC nations participating following Kuwait’s withdrawal. Around 1,500 athletes competed in 15 sports, with Qatar once again finishing third after winning 59 medals, including 21 gold, 22 silver, and 16 bronze.The third edition was staged in Kuwait from 16 to 31 May 2022, featuring six GCC nations and more than 1,500 athletes competing in 16 sports. Qatar placed fifth in the medal standings with a total of 52 medals, including 16 gold, 21 silver, and 15 bronze. 

AIPS President Praises Qatar’s Leadership of the Olympic Council of Asia

Sanya (China), April 25 – The President of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), Gianni Merlo of Italy, has praised the efforts of His Excellency the President of both the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Qatar Olympic Committee, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, in enhancing Asia’s presence on the global sporting stage.In a special interview with the media delegation accompanying Team Qatar to the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026, Merlo stated that Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani possesses a clear strategic vision and a strong ability to unify the continent amid current challenges, stressing that his leadership comes at a critical time that requires redefining the role of sport across Asia.He added that His Excellency’s assumption of the OCA presidency comes during exceptional circumstances, as sporting events coincide with regional and international developments that require sport to go beyond competition and assume broader responsibilities. “Leadership in this era is not limited to tournament management; it requires a strategic vision capable of uniting Asian nations and strengthening joint cooperation to achieve long-term sporting stability,” Merlo said.He further highlighted that Qatar, within a short period, has established itself as one of the leading global hubs for hosting major sporting events. This achievement, he noted, is not coincidental but rather the result of a clear vision and sustained investment in infrastructure, facilities, and the development of organizational and media capabilities. “Qatar today does not only host events; it actively contributes to advancing the global sports system by raising standards and setting an international benchmark,” he added.Regarding Qatar’s prospects of hosting the Olympic Games, Merlo stated that the country meets most key requirements, including advanced sporting infrastructure, a modern transport network, and a sophisticated media system. He emphasized that Qatar’s recent track record in hosting world-class events significantly strengthens its future bid prospects.Comparing the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 with the upcoming edition hosted across three countries, Merlo underlined the major differences in organization and overall experience, noting that Qatar 2022 offered an integrated and unique model. “The proximity of stadiums created an exceptional experience for fans and media alike, whereas the upcoming edition will face significant logistical challenges, particularly in transportation and media coverage,” he said.On another note, Merlo described the AIPS Sport Media Awards as a leading global platform reflecting the evolution of sports media, affirming that the partnership with Qatar has played a key role in its success by providing a strong environment for its global expansion.He concluded by stating that the current period represents a pivotal moment in the development of both Asian and global sport, noting that Qatar, with its expertise and capabilities, is well positioned to play a central role in shaping the future of international sport. He also emphasized that Asia, under the leadership of the OCA, has a genuine opportunity to further strengthen its global influence. 

Thai Prime Minister Meets President of the Olympic Council of Asia

Bangkok, April 25 (QNA) - HE Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, met with HE President of the Asian Olympic Council Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani in Bangkok on Saturday.During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance sports cooperation between the two sides to support the development of the Olympic movement in Asia, in addition to discussing a number of issues of mutual interest.HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani also held a meeting with HE National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) President, Pimol Srivikorn, during which they addressed sporting relations between the council and the committee and ways to advance joint cooperation.The meeting also followed up on preparations for upcoming continental sporting events and competitions.  

OCA President Visits Athletes' Village at Sanya 2026 Asian Beach Games

Sanya, China, April 24 - President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani visited the Athletes' Village at the 6th Asian Beach Games, being held in Sanya, People's Republic of China.This visit comes as part of his ongoing monitoring of the various organizational aspects of the Games.During the visit, His Excellency inspected the facilities and services provided to the athletes, including accommodation, recovery areas, and logistics centers.The OCA President praised the advanced level of the facilities and the quality of the organization, reflecting the city's readiness and its outstanding hosting of this continental event.He also met with a number of participating athletes, wishing them success in their competitions and commending their sportsmanship, which embodies the values of fair play and Asian unity.This visit is part of His Excellency's ongoing field visits to monitor progress and ensure the best possible experience for the athletes and participating delegations.  

Qatar Shine Early in Sanya as Handball and Volleyball Teams Open with Wins

Sanya, China, April 23 (QNA) – Qatar’s national beach handball team continued to underline its championship credentials at the Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026, producing two more commanding victories to preserve a flawless run in the group stage.The defending champions swept aside both Bangladesh and Mongolia by identical 2–0 score lines, extending their winning streak to four consecutive matches after earlier triumphs over Pakistan and Oman. The impressive start has further reinforced Qatar’s determination to retain the continental crown.Qatar’s beach volleyball teams also made an emphatic start in the men’s competition. The first team of Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan comfortably overcame the Maldives in straight sets, while the second pairing of Mohamed Ehab and Mousa Al Khair secured a convincing 2–0 win against Saudi Arabia.In the women’s event, Qatar’s second team faced a difficult opening encounter, falling to Japan in their first match of the tournament.Meanwhile, in aquathlon, Qatar’s Shaheen Al Kaabi finished in 24th place, as the nation’s campaign in sailing, jiujitsu and 3x3 basketball continues, with Qatari athletes looking to build on the country’s promising start in Sanya. 

OCA Director-General Praises Sheikh Joaan’s Role in Sustaining Sports Cooperation

Sanya/China/,April 23 (QNA) - Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) Husain Al Musallam commended the efforts of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of both the OCA and the Qatar Olympic Committee, whose vision has contributed to strengthening the unity of Asian countries and ensuring the continuity of sports cooperation among all members.In his remarks Thursday on the sidelines of the Sanya 2026 Asian Beach Games, Al Musallam said the event represents a significant milestone in the Olympic movement within Asia. He noted the importance of the role played by the current leadership of the council in unifying efforts and overcoming challenges. He stressed that the insistence on the participation of all member states reflects a true commitment to the spirit of the Asian Olympic Movement.He pointed out that 2026 will witness several sporting events, as the OCA, after the conclusion of the Beach Games in Sanya, China, will oversee the organization of the Asian Summer Games in Japan, as well as the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Saudi Arabia.The OCA Director General indicated that Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, in less than four months so far, has confirmed his ability to lead the OCA and the Asian Olympic Movement, in light of a busy program and great challenges, especially the challenges in the Middle East and the Gulf, which have affected all areas, particularly the sports field.Al Musallam pointed out that the meeting of the OCA witnessed a number of countries submitting requests to host the Games, whether they are beach, winter or Asian Games, such as the Philippines, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Vietnam, India and Mongolia.Regarding whether the time has come for one of the Gulf countries to host the Olympic Games, the OCA Director General said that the time has been right for some time, but the decision ultimately rests with the countries themselves. The Gulf countries have the capabilities and infrastructure, especially Qatar, which has hosted major sporting events, in addition to its international presence and influence, which qualifies it to host a global event the size of the Olympic Games. (QNA)