Many sports halls in clubs and youth centers have been witnessing a surge in demand for self-defense training sessions through the sport of Muay Thai, which has become increasingly popular. These sessions are part of the “Summer Sports for All 2025” program, organized by the Qatar Sports for All Federation under the supervision of the Ministry of Sports and Youth. The program runs from June 29 until August 7, in collaboration with 28 different entities, including ministries, institutions, organizations, and schools.

The Muay Thai program targets children aged 7 to 14, aiming to train and teach them self-defense skills. During the past days alone, more than 877 participants have taken part in intensive training sessions across 10 youth centers and sports clubs. These sessions are led by specialized trainers and aim to develop the participants’ physical abilities, strengthen their self-confidence, and enhance their awareness of the importance of practicing modern combat sports.

The training also has a positive impact on personal development, promoting discipline and self-control. The sessions are held weekly for several weeks and are met with great enthusiasm from both the children and their parents, many of whom attend to encourage their children.

Mr. Abdullah Al-Dosari, Executive Director of the Qatar Sports for All Federation, confirmed that the summer Muay Thai program has achieved great success. This is evident not only in the number of participants but also in the positive interaction and involvement of families. He pointed out that the presence of families helps foster a healthy, motivating sports environment that encourages children to be disciplined and committed, ultimately strengthening family and community bonds.

Al-Dosari added that Muay Thai is a key component of the Summer Sports for All 2025 program. It aims to help young people make good use of their free time during the summer vacation by engaging them in beneficial and meaningful sports activities. The program focuses not only on physical fitness but also on building a well-rounded system that includes discipline, challenge, knowledge, and self-confidence.

The Executive Director also emphasized that the Muay Thai program reflects the overall improvement in the skills and performance of the participants, especially those on the Muay Thai team. He highlighted the valuable efforts made to spread the culture of sports across different segments of society throughout the year. This provides strong motivation to continue developing the next generation of participants and to expand the program’s reach.

Currently, Muay Thai sessions are offered at various sports clubs and youth centers, including Al-Wakrah, Al-Shamal, Al-Ahli, Al-Sadd, Qatar Sports Club, and youth centers in Doha, Simaisma, Al-Khor, Al-Kheesa, Shabab Barzan, and Eid Cultural Center. Due to increasing demand, more locations are expected to host Muay Thai sessions in the near future.