The University achieved second place in the first edition of the National Sport Day Award
University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) marked Qatar National Sport Day 2026 with a community-oriented celebration that placed sport, wellness, and family participation at the heart of campus life. The event brought together Dr. Mohammed Yousef Al-Mulla Vice-Chair of UDST Board of Trustees and Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST, students, staff, their families, and members of the broader community, for a shared experience promoting healthy and active lifestyles.
Hosted at the UDST Events Park, the event attracted more than 700 participants of all ages. The campus was transformed into an interactive sports and recreation hub, making full use of UDST’s state-of-the-art facilities.
In recognition of its outstanding efforts and impact, UDST was awarded Second Place at the National Sport Day Award, achieving a significant milestone among many government and private entities across the State of Qatar. This award recognizes national institutions that advance community sports and sustainable initiatives to improve public health and encourage active lifestyles. As part of the National Sport Day Award initiative, UDST organized more than 37 sports and wellness events, engaging approximately 5,300 participants, demonstrating strong alignment with national objectives.
As a FISU Platinum Certified Healthy Campus, UDST’s participation in National Sport Day reflects its strategic commitment to wellness, active living, and community engagement. The event reinforces UDST’s leadership in integrating sports and wellness into education, aligning with Qatar’s vision to foster a healthier society.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of the University of Doha for Science and Technology, said: “Qatar National Sport Day is a powerful reminder of the role that physical activity plays in strengthening individuals and communities. At UDST, we are committed to nurturing a culture of wellness that values health, balance, and active living. By bringing our community together through sport, we support national efforts to promote well-being and contribute to the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.” He commented on the award, noting that it reflects the direction the University has pursued since its inception to position itself as a hub for sport, health, and excellence. He also expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Sports and Youth, and extended his appreciation to His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Minister of Sports and Youth. Dr. Salem Al-Naemi reaffirmed that the University remains committed to its promise to serve as a leading model for knowledge, health, and sport, from Qatar to the world.
Anthony Martin, Director of UDST’s Sport and Wellness Directorate, said: “This year’s program reflects our continued commitment to promoting an active and inclusive campus culture. Through a dynamic mix of competitive and recreational activities, we aimed to engage our community, encourage participation at all levels, and reinforce the importance of wellness, teamwork, and connection.”
The day opened with a Family Walk and Run, encouraging participants to begin the celebrations with a shared physical activity. Throughout the event, attendees took part in a broad selection of sports and fitness activities, including football, basketball, volleyball, padel, pickleball, badminton, table tennis, cricket, spinning sessions, athletics challenges, and beach volleyball. Specially designed activity zones for children and families featured interactive games such as football darts, human foosball, speed kick challenges, target shooting, under-soccer games, and inflatable play areas.
The program was delivered in collaboration with leading sports partners, including Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Be Basketball, and TNT Athletics, who hosted activities across designated zones. Each zone offered exciting and engaging competitions and demonstrations that attracted strong participation throughout the day.
