A Full Guide to QIFF 2026 for Food Lovers

The Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) 2026 is returning bigger and more flavour-packed than ever, inviting food lovers, families and travellers to Doha’s Stadium 974 precinct from 14 to 24 January 2026 for an unforgettable culinary celebration. The 15th edition of the festival promises world-class cuisine, live cooking experiences, interactive zones, entertainment and fun for all ages, and best of all, entry is free.

Dates & Timing

• When: 14 – 24 January 2026
•  Weekdays: approximately 16:00 – 23:00
• Weekends: approximately 15:00 – 01:00
  (Timings may vary slightly by zone and programme.)

Venue

• 974 Stadium Precinct, Doha, Qatar — a vibrant waterfront space that has become the heart of QIFF, showcasing an expansive food scene with easy access to local and international culinary delights.

Tickets & Entry

• Entry: Free for all visitors, no tickets or registration required.
• This accessibility makes QIFF one of the most popular seasonal highlights in the Gulf’s food-festival calendar.

Chef Lineup & Special Zones

Global & Local Chef Showcases

While the full chef list will be revealed closer to the festival, the event’s Instagram has highlighted a mix of international stars and beloved local talents offering live demonstrations and interactive sessions, from gourmet techniques to street-food secrets.

Open Fire Food Festival by Steve Harvey

One of QIFF’s standout zones returns with a live-fire cooking experience curated by Steve Harvey. Featuring renowned U.S. chefs such as:

• Moe Cason
• Melissa Cookston
• Bob Trudnak

These masters of flame-grilled cuisine will showcase bold, smoke-kissed dishes on 15–16 January, blending American BBQ tradition with festival energy.

Festival Highlights & Foodie Zones

QIFF Ring

A hub of fun culinary challenges and competitions — from eating contests to food trivia — designed to engage visitors of all ages.

QIFF Juniors

Activities, workshops and kid-friendly culinary experiences make this zone perfect for families looking to introduce children to the joys of food and cooking.

Live Cooking Studio

Catch live demonstrations and masterclasses where chefs share tips, techniques and tantalising recipes — perfect for aspiring cooks and curious foodies alike.

Market & Dining Areas

Explore a diverse collection of food stalls, restaurants and cafés representing:

• Arab, Mediterranean & Asian cuisines
• Street food favourites
• Gourmet experiences

Plus plenty of beverage options and local favourites.

Entertainment & Culture

In addition to food, QIFF offers a packed calendar of entertainment:

• Fireworks and paramotor shows
• Drone displays
• Live performances
• Family entertainment and workshops for all ages

What Else To Expect

Festival content shared via the official QIFF Instagram shows vibrant scenes of families enjoying diverse dishes, interactive cooking sessions, cultural mash-ups and memorable photo-ops across the precinct — making it as much a social and cultural experience as a foodie festival.

Tips for Food Lovers

• Arrive early on weekends if you want first picks at popular stalls.
• Try the Open Fire zone for bold flavours and theatrical cooking vibes.
• Join a workshop or demo to pick up tips directly from pros.
• Visit both day and night: the festival atmosphere evolves with spectacular night entertainment.