Country/Region/City
Each FISU World University Championship is more than just a sporting event — it’s a unique opportunity to discover a new culture, explore a region, and connect with a vibrant academic community.
This page introduces you to the host country and city for this edition, highlighting their history, key features, and commitment to sport and youth.
Qatar
Qatar is one of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East, located on the north-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It shares its only land border with Saudi Arabia and is otherwise surrounded by the Persian Gulf. Covering approximately 11,586 square kilometres, Qatar has a population of about 2,8 million, with a large expatriate community, and ranks among the highest globally in GDP per capita due to its oil and natural gas reserves.
In recent years, Qatar has diversified beyond a commodity-based economy, positioning itself as a leading tourism and global sports hub. The country has hosted major international events, including the 2006 Asian Games, 2011 Pan Arab Games, 2019 World Beach Games, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup™, and is preparing to host the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Qatar features a flat, arid desert landscape and a desert climate with year-round sunshine. Summers are hot, while winters are mild. Temperatures range from an average of 17°C in January to 36°C in July, occasionally exceeding 40°C. In November, temperatures typically range between 21°C and 30°C, with an average of 25°C.
Doha
Doha, the capital and largest city, is known for its modern skyline, advanced infrastructure, and role as a major international transit hub. It is one of the fastest-developing cities in the region and was ranked the second safest city globally in the 2025 Numbeo Crime Index.
University
Qatar has developed a robust higher education system, featuring a mix of local institutions and international branch campuses. Currently, there are a total of 34 higher education institutions in the country. Qatar has attracted several top international universities to establish branch campuses, primarily located within Education City, a 12-square-kilometer campus in Doha. Universities in Qatar are known for their diverse student bodies, drawing students from around the world and creating a culturally rich and globally oriented educational environment.