If you're a tennis fan, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open is probably already on your radar. The 2026 tournament runs February 16-21 at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in West Bay, Doha's business district. The facility, which opened in 1992 and was renovated in 2008, features 24 hard courts and a 7,000-seat center court. After becoming an ATP 500 event in 2025, it's attracting bigger names and higher prize money than before. Here's what you need to know if you're thinking about going.

The Qatar Open has been around since 1993. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, and Novak Djokovic have all won here. Nadal has four titles total — one singles title in 2014 and three doubles trophies. Djokovic won back-to-back in 2016 and 2017. Andrey Rublev took the title in both 2020 and 2025.

The jump to ATP 500 puts it in the second-highest tier of men's professional tennis tournaments, just below the Grand Slams and ATP Masters 1000 events. This means top-20 players are required to participate if they're healthy, the prize money is substantial, and the ranking points impact who qualifies for year-end championships. It's part of the official ATP tour calendar that determines world rankings.

The 2026 edition takes place February 16-21. The tournament features both singles and doubles competitions. Matches start in the afternoon and continue into the evening. The finals wrap things up on February 21.

Most matches happen under lights, which creates a good atmosphere once the sun goes down. If you're planning your days, expect the action to heat up as the week progresses, with semi-finals and finals drawing the biggest crowds.

You can buy tickets directly from the Qatar Tennis Federation website or through ATP Tour Experiences if you want VIP packages.

A few things to know before you purchase: children under five aren't allowed on Center Court, even with a valid ticket. Kids five and older need full-price tickets. Once you complete a ticket purchase, no changes or refunds — even if a player withdraws or a match gets moved to a different court. Your ticket is valid for the date printed on it, not for specific players or matches.

💡 Outside food and beverages aren't permitted. The complex has food courts and refreshment stands selling international options.

Getting there

Corniche Metro Station is about 10 minutes on foot. Taxis and Uber know the place — ask for "Khalifa Tennis Complex" or choose it as your destination when you book. Parking is also available on-site if you're driving.

You want to stay in West Bay if you're going to multiple days of matches. Most hotels are 2-3 km from the venue.

Luxury properties

• W Doha: About 650 feet from the Corniche, with modern rooms and multiple restaurants

• JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha: Connected to City Centre Doha mall

• The St. Regis Doha: Features a private beach and tennis courts

Mid-range options

• Marriott Executive Apartments City Center: Kitchen in the room, suitable for longer stays

• Element by Westin City Center: Modern rooms with kitchenettes, close to the mall

• Wyndham Doha West Bay: Solid mid-range option with pool and gym, views from upper floors

Most of these hotels are within 2-3 km of the tennis complex. You can walk to some, take a short taxi ride to others. Many properties run shuttle services during major events or can arrange transportation.

Before you book everything, get your travel insurance sorted. Flight delays happen, plans change — it's worth having coverage.

Doha has plenty worth seeing beyond the tournament, and February weather makes exploring actually enjoyable.

Museums and culture

The Museum of Islamic Art sits on the waterfront, with 14 centuries of Islamic art on display. The collection includes manuscripts, ceramics, and metalwork. Go in the morning before tour groups arrive.

The National Museum of Qatar looks like a desert rose crystal — the architecture alone is worth the visit. You'll find exhibitions covering everything from the history of pearl diving to modern development. If you're into art and culture, Qatar has ten museums worth checking out.

Souq Waqif is the traditional marketplace. You'll find spices, textiles, and handicrafts, along with restaurants serving all kinds of food. Try machboos or harees if you want something traditional.

Katara Cultural Village has theaters, galleries, and a beach. Events happen regularly, so check what's on when you're there.

Explore Doha outdoors

The Corniche is a waterfront path stretching several kilometers — good for walking off breakfast before heading to matches. The path is maintained well with benches and water fountains.

MIA Park sits next to the Museum of Islamic Art. It features green spaces, playgrounds, and great photo spots. The elevated hilltop offers skyline views.

The Pearl-Qatar is an artificial island with shops, restaurants, and a marina. Very photogenic.

If you want to get out of the city entirely, Qatar has beaches, dunes, and nature reserves worth exploring. You can arrange desert safaris or off-road adventures through tour operators like Discover Qatar.

Food and shopping

City Centre Doha is a standard mall in West Bay — Carrefour, chain restaurants, and international brands. Useful if you forgot something.

West Bay has everything from casual cafés to expensive restaurants. Jones the grocer works for breakfast or lunch. If you're spending more, there are plenty of upscale options. Check out this brunch guide if you're into that scene. Plant-based options are available, too, if that's your preference.

Msheireb Downtown Doha is worth a visit if you want to see Qatar's sustainable urban development project — a mix of heritage houses, museums, and modern architecture.

Weather in February

Doha in February is pleasant — daytime temperatures around 19-25°C. Evenings cool down, especially in the stadium where you are sitting still. Make sure you bring a light jacket for night matches.

Getting around Doha

The Doha Metro is clean, air-conditioned, and efficient. Red Line stations, such as Corniche Station, put you close to the tennis venue and many attractions. Taxis are affordable and plentiful.

Dress code

Smart casual works for the tournament. Keep shoulders and knees covered when you're outside the venue. Inside the stadium, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid anything too revealing.

Tips for your visit

Get to the venue early on your first day. This gives you time to figure out the layout, grab food, and settle in before matches start. Early rounds often feature exciting matches between lesser-known players eager to make a statement.

Photography is usually allowed during changeovers, but check the specific rules. Flash photography and recording during points are prohibited.