National & Political Updates of Qatar
It is currently December 22, 2025, and Qatar has just concluded a significant week of national celebrations and major international events. Here are the latest updates from across the country.
National & Political Updates
- Qatar National Day (December 18): The country recently celebrated National Day under the motto "With You it Rises, From You it Awaits." Celebrations included a massive turnout at Lusail Boulevard, cultural events at Darb Al Saai, and fireworks across Doha.
- 2026 State Budget: HH the Amir recently approved the state budget for the fiscal year 2026. Total expected revenues are projected at QR 199 billion (a 1% increase from 2025), with a strong focus on education, health, and economic diversification.
- Government Appointments: Recent Amiri decrees have appointed a new Commander of the Amiri Guard and a Minister of State at the Amiri Diwan.
- Mediation Efforts: Qatar continues its intensive diplomatic role. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani recently emphasized at the Doha Forum that Qatar remains a central mediator in regional conflicts, including efforts to maintain stability in Gaza and Afghanistan.
Sports & Entertainment
- FIFA Arab Cup 2025: Morocco was crowned champion after defeating Jordan in a dramatic final at Lusail Stadium on December 18. Qatar's national team finished their run earlier in the month after a loss to Tunisia.
- Cruise Season Milestone: Doha Port welcomed two major "maiden calls" this week—the Seven Seas Navigator and Celestyal Discovery—marking a significant boost for the 2025/2026 cruise tourism season.
- Upcoming Events: * FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships: Preparing to host the world's top chess talent in Doha.
- Match for Hope 2026: YouTube star MrBeast has been officially confirmed to participate in the 2026 edition of this charity football match.
Business & Infrastructure
- Water Self-Sufficiency: Reports today (Dec 22) indicate that Qatar is nearing total water self-sufficiency thanks to expanded desalination production and increased storage capacity.
- High-Speed Rail: Qatar and Saudi Arabia recently signed a landmark deal to link their capitals via a high-speed rail network, expected to be completed within six years.
- Tech & AI: The Ministry of Communications (MCIT) is currently holding sessions to help SMEs adopt AI tools, and a delegation is in Serbia to strengthen partnerships for the upcoming Web Summit Qatar.
