Qatar Polo Club Unveils Nation’s First Polo Fiesta from December 11-13

The Qatar Polo Club (QPC) has announced the launch of Polo Al Marsa Qatar, marking the nation’s inaugural polo showcase. Scheduled to take place from December 11 to 13, 2023, at Terminal Park, Old Doha Port, this event promises to be a spectacular celebration of high-caliber polo, cultural showcases, and equestrian excellence.

Featuring a purpose-built grass arena, Polo Al Marsa Qatar will host an array of events, including exhibition matches and cultural festivities. The showcase will welcome players from Argentina and Chile as part of the Qatar-Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture, which aims to foster enduring cultural partnerships between Qatar and these nations.

Exciting Schedule and Cultural Connections

Over the three-day event, attendees will witness a diverse range of activities. Highlights include a Juniors play-off, a Women’s exhibition match, and the Years of Culture Championship Cup, all emphasizing how sports unite communities and foster trust between nations. The main event, the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup, will feature Qatari and international players competing in mixed teams, marking a significant milestone for the sport in Qatar.

In discussing the event, Ashraf Abuissa, Chairman of the Qatar Polo Club, stated, “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.”

Fuad Almudahka, Director General of QPC, emphasized the effort to rejuvenate this heritage sport, saying, “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.”

Bridging Cultures through Sport

H E Mohammed Al Kuwari, Years of Culture Advisor on Latin America and former Ambassador to Mexico, highlighted the event’s significance by stating, “The Years of Culture has always shown that sport and culture are two sides of the same coin as both bring people together across borders. This Polo AlMarsa event connects Qatar’s equestrian heritage with beloved traditions in Chile and Argentina, creating a new cultural and sporting bridge that will endure long after this year.”

Eng. Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, Chief Executive Officer of Old Doha Port, noted that hosting Qatar’s first-ever polo event at Old Doha Port marks a new milestone in the port’s development as a vibrant cultural and tourism destination. He explained, “Through hosting this event, we aim to bring together Qatar’s rich heritage and modern spirit, reflecting our vision to deliver experiences that celebrate national identity through a contemporary lens.”

Jassim AlMahmoud, Visit Qatar Public Relations and Communications Director, added that Polo AlMarsa enhances Qatar’s events calendar, showcasing the nation’s equestrian tradition while introducing a global sport that resonates with culture and heritage. “By hosting such distinctive events at Old Doha Port, Visit Qatar continues to enhance the country’s reputation as a vibrant destination for sport and culture events,” he said.

The event will kick off with the Polo AlMarsa Youth Camp on December 11, followed by two days of polo matches, hospitality, and cultural activities. The program includes international cuisine, family activities, and entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees.

On December 12, the official first day of Polo AlMarsa Qatar, spectators can expect an exhilarating welcome parade featuring over 50 horses, along with a ceremonial opening hosted by the Years of Culture and Chile, which will showcase 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 strong bonds between Argentina, Chile, and Qatar.

The final day, December 13, will feature the Polo AlMarsa Championship Cup, along with a Historical Horse Show, heritage demonstrations, and the closing awards. Additionally, the event will conclude with the finale of Fashions on the Field, providing a vibrant showcase of local and international talent.

Throughout the event, the Polo Village will serve as a lively hub, featuring food trucks, retail options, live entertainment, and family activities. Guests can access ticketed lounges with prime pitch-side views and dining options, while exclusive VIP and sponsor lounges will offer tailored experiences for dignitaries and partners.