Al Bidda Park

Al Bidda Park is a free public park of about 188 hectares on Corniche Street in central Doha, between the government district and West Bay and next to the Qatar National Theatre. With lawns, cycling paths and views across Doha Bay, it suits runners, families with children and anyone in town for a festival on its grounds.

The name comes from Al Bidda, the old coastal settlement from which modern Doha grew. The park was first laid out in the 1990s and for years was called Al Rumaila Park. In November 2014 it closed for a full renovation and expansion that joined older green spaces into one continuous park, and it reopened on 13 February 2018, Qatar's National Sport Day. The Qatar News Agency gives its area as about 1.7 million square metres, which places it among the largest parks in the city.

Lawns, cycling paths and views of West Bay

Wide lawns, tree-lined avenues and walking and cycling paths run the length of the site, with views over the water to the towers of West Bay. There are children's playgrounds, fitness areas, kiosks and small shops, restrooms, a cultural village and a cultural heritage centre. The mix of trees, grass and water makes the park a known birdwatching spot in the cooler months.

Early mornings belong to runners and cyclists. After sunset the paths fill with families, and in summer most people come only after dark. The paved paths are mostly level, so pushchairs and wheelchairs manage well.

FIFA Fan Festival, National Day and Eid events

The park is one of Doha's main outdoor event spaces. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup it hosted the FIFA Fan Festival, and festivals, markets and national celebrations are staged here through the year, especially around National Day and Eid. Parts of the park may close while events are set up, and some events charge their own entry.