More than 550 educational, cultural and sports activities are being offered across Qatar this summer under the Ministry of Sports and Youth’s 2026 Summer Plan, providing many students with opportunities to develop new skills, stay active and engage with their communities during the school holidays.
The nationwide programme, delivered through youth centres and partner institutions, is transforming the school break into a season of learning, innovation and civic engagement.
It comprises 142 civic participation activities, 125 education, research and innovation programmes, and 118 health and wellness initiatives, alongside workshops on entrepreneurship, technology, environmental awareness and social responsibility.
Complementing the government’s efforts is a growing network of camps organised by sports organisations, cultural institutions, museums, educational centres and private entities, offering activities tailored to a wide range of interests and age groups.
Sports continue to be among the biggest attractions.
Aspire Zone Foundation’s long-running summer camp offered football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, gymnastics and self-defence training in world-class facilities.
Young equestrian enthusiasts can also develop their riding skills through specialised programmes at Al Shaqab and the Qatar Equestrian Federation, while inclusive sporting and recreational camps are expanding opportunities for children with disabilities.
“The summer camps are an excellent initiative where youngsters can meet friends, interact with their peers and use their free time constructively,” said Mariam, an expatriate mother of three. “They also help working parents who might otherwise have to leave their children at home while they are at work, which could affect their physical and mental well-being.”
She noted that the wide range of affordable – and in many cases, free – summer programmes offered across the country helps keep children engaged throughout the holidays, reducing excessive screen time and encouraging them to develop practical skills that support their overall growth and development.
Science, technology and creativity also feature prominently in this year’s programmes.
The Qatar National Library’s annual summer camp combines STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education with storytelling, arts and interactive learning, while the Qatar Toy Festival summer camp introduces children to engineering, design thinking and problem-solving through hands-on activities.
At OliOli Children’s Museum, youngsters explore science and creativity through immersive exhibitions and themed workshops designed to spark curiosity and imagination.
“The activities are diverse and cater to different interests while taking into account the needs of both boys and girls,” said Hamid, a father of two boys. “Some children enjoy reading, painting and creative crafts, while others prefer team or individual sports, and these camps offer something for everyone.”
He added that many of the high-quality camps are accessible to all eligible children and provide valuable opportunities to build confidence, develop practical skills and strengthen social interaction through group activities.
Culture and heritage remain central to the summer programme, with Katara Cultural Village organising specialised camps in Arabic language, creative writing, theatre, photography, ceramics, astronomy and traditional crafts.
Inclusive programmes have also expanded in recent years.
Education City’s Ability Friendly Summer Camp offers children and young people with disabilities adapted sports, swimming, horse riding, arts, cooking and gardening in an environment designed to promote independence and social interaction.
Similar specialist initiatives are also organised by organisations such as Step by Step Qatar.
Shopping malls, private schools and hotels are also contributing to the summer activity landscape through discounted programmes and recreational initiatives.
Some malls offer reduced rates for children’s play zones on selected days, while certain private schools open their playgrounds for organised football sessions.
Several hotels also allow non-guests access to swimming pools and recreational facilities on designated days during the summer.
As a result, many families are increasingly embracing summer camps as a productive alternative to passive indoor activities, valuing the blend of education, recreation and social interaction they provide.
Organisers likewise report strong participation, with many families returning year after year, reflecting growing public confidence in the quality, safety and developmental value of the country’s summer programmes.
Research also highlights the benefits of such initiatives.
Studies involving camp participants found that 92% reported positive personal growth, 76% acquired new practical skills through hands-on activities, and around 64% experienced improvements in physical fitness.
Between 70% and 85% also reported increased self-confidence following their participation.