The Qatari Sports for All Federation has finalized its preparations for the launch of the fourth edition of the 2025 Al Zubarah Night Challenge, held under the auspices of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in cooperation with Trails Sports Events Company. The race will take place next Saturday in the Al Zubarah area as Qatar’s first-ever night race of its kind. Now entering its fourth year, it is part of the country’s desert running series aimed at promoting a culture of sport within the community.

The Al Zubarah race is a unique sporting event combining challenge, adventure, and a distinctive competitive atmosphere. Participation is open to all segments of society—men, women, and children—on safe courses that run alongside the natural landmarks near the historic Al Zubarah Fort. This exceptional experience renews itself annually, with the current edition aiming to build on the successes of previous years. Last year’s 2024 edition attracted approximately 500 participants of various ages, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for this event, which has become a hallmark annual fixture in Qatar’s community sports calendar.

Abdullah Al-Dosari, Executive Director of the Qatari Sports for All Federation, affirmed that this year’s edition represents a significant addition to this distinguished series of desert races in Qatar. The event aims to deliver an exceptional experience in all aspects, including routes, services, and participant experience.

The race both starts and finishes near Al Zubarah Fort, with three distances mapped out on the same out-and-back course: 2.5 km, 5 km, and 10 km. Additionally, there is an 800-meter race for children. The race distances are designated as follows: 10 km for participants aged 17 and above, 5 km for the same age group, 2.5 km for youth aged 7 to 16, and a special 800-meter race for children aged 3 to 6, consisting of an out-and-back route. All courses are well-prepared to ensure smooth running and safety for all competitors.