Visit Qatar has partnered with Samla Race to launch the international edition of the country’s iconic endurance challenge.

Both male and female participants will participate in Qatar’s toughest race, which is set to take place on January 24, 2026. First launched in 2017, the Samla Race has become a hallmark of Qatar’s sports calendar and now this international edition will highlight the country’s role on the world sporting stage.

Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “The launch of the international edition of this race marks a significant milestone not only in elevating Qatar’s profile in sports tourism, but in showcasing an authentic Qatari initiative that has demonstrated excellence at the local level and now steps confidently onto the global stage. It also reflects the strength of Qatar’s world-class infrastructure and the creativity embedded in its sporting culture. We are proud to be the main partner of an event that embodies both the spirit of challenge and the innovation that defines Qatar’s approach to sport and tourism development.”

Set against the stunning backdrop of southern Qatar’s sweeping sand dunes, the Samla International Race comprises four endurance challenges: swimming, mountain biking, running and kayaking – each designed to test the participants’ stamina and skill. The race begins with a 3km swim, followed by a 49km run. Competitors then tackle a 44km mountain biking trail, before concluding with a 4km kayaking challenge. The race takes a point-to-point format and must be completed in 12 hours.

The organising committee has allocated valuable cash prizes for the winners in both the men’s and women’s categories, with a total prize pool of approximately USD300,000. The first-place winner will receive USD50,000, while the second and third places will be awarded USD30,000 and USD20,000 respectively. Competitors placing fourth to tenth will receive prizes ranging from USD10,000 to USD4,000, depending on their ranking.

Qatar’s global positioning as a hub for international sporting excellence continues to grow and events such as the Samla International Race contribute to its sporting legacy. By hosting globally recognised events such as the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, and the AFC Asian Cup, the country has demonstrated its ability to captivate sport audiences and engage enthusiast from around the world.

Registration is available through the official Samla Race website, where a comprehensive guide with rules and instructions can be found. The race is open to all nationalities and genders aged 18 and above. ✤

GO: VISIT SAMLA.COM.QA/SAMLA100/ FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER.