HBKU to Host 2nd GCC Women’s Sports Tournament

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and the Organizing Committee of the GCC Women's Sports Committee for Universities and Higher Education Institutions have announced details of the upcoming tournament, set to take place at HBKU from February 6 to 11, 2026, with the Opening Ceremony taking place February 7.

In a press conference, members of the GCC Supervisory Committee, and several leaders from the sports and academic sectors, introduced participating universities, sports disciplines, and competition schedule.

The GCC Supervisory Committee delegation commended HBKU’s preparation and organization during its official visit from November 5 - 7, 2025. The visit included field tours of the sports facilities and competition venues in Education City, as well as a coordination meeting with the Higher Supervisory Committee. 

The delegation noted HBKU’s readiness, reflecting the university’s and Qatar Foundation’s commitment to providing world-class facilities that meet the highest international standards for female student-athletes.

Dr. Maryam Hamad Al-Mannai, Vice President of Student Affairs, HBKU, and Chairperson of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the Tournament, stated: “At HBKU, we take great pride in hosting this exceptional edition of the GCC Women’s Sports Tournament. This event is more than an athletic competition; it is a platform for cultivating leadership, fostering collaboration and strengthening a shared Gulf identity.” 

She added: “The tournament aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the support of the leadership in Qatar, making it an inspiring model for empowering women in sports and academia. With the support of Qatar Foundation and the Qatar Olympic Committee, and in collaboration with national sports federations, we are committed to ensuring that competitions are conducted in accordance with the highest technical standards and approved regulations that upholds fairness and integrity.”

Commenting on the event, Rashid Saeed Adiba, Secretary General of the Qatar Collegiate Sports Federation (QCSF), noted: “We appreciate HBKU and QF efforts in hosting this edition. The professionalism and the infrastructure reflect a clear vision and a genuine investment in women’s university sports. This tournament marks a milestone toward strengthening Gulf cooperation and joint efforts in this field.”

For her part, Wadha Al-Saoud, Head of Sports and Recreation at HBKU, and the Tournament Director, highlighted the collective approach to the tournament, adding: “Over the past few months, we have been working to prepare a comprehensive sporting and humanitarian experience for the female students, ensuring preparations, logistical support, accommodation, and transportation plans meet the highest standards. Our goal is for this championship to be more than just a race for medals, but embody the spirit of sportsmanship and shared Gulf identity.” 

HBKU is poised to deliver an exceptional tournament that reflects Qatar’s leadership in promoting university sports, women’s empowerment, and regional collaboration.