Strength and Stamina: Qatar's Samla Race Expands with Global Lifestyle Vision
A New Era for Samla: Qatar’s Endurance Race Goes Global
Qatar’s homegrown endurance race, Samla, is set to make a significant leap forward as it opens its doors to international athletes for the first time. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in the race’s evolution and reflects Qatar’s growing ambitions in the world of sports. For nearly a decade, Samla has been known for its challenging terrain and non-stop format, earning a reputation as one of the most demanding endurance events. Now, with its expansion on the global stage, the race is poised to attract athletes from around the world while maintaining its deep roots in Qatari culture.
The Unstoppable Challenge of Samla
Samla is designed as a 100-kilometre non-stop endurance test that must be completed within a 12-hour window. Athletes tackle six consecutive stages across four different disciplines: open-water swimming, long-distance running, mountain biking, and kayaking. Unlike traditional road races, competitors face rugged landscapes filled with sand and rocks, which push both their physical and mental limits.
According to Azzam Al Mannai, Chief Executive Officer of the Samla Race Organising Committee, the race’s unique structure sets it apart. “It’s an endurance race. It's non-stop, 12 hours, 100k, six different stages back-to-back,” he explained. “It’s based on time. Whoever finishes first is the winner.” The challenge is not just about speed but also about resilience, as participants must navigate unpredictable conditions and maintain focus throughout the entire course.
Expanding Horizons: International Participation Grows
The first international edition of Samla has already drawn strong interest from athletes worldwide. Hundreds of participants from various nationalities have signed up, showcasing the event’s growing appeal. The race is open to both men and women, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity.
The prize purse for the event exceeds €250,000 ($300,000), with awards given to the top ten male and female finishers. This financial incentive highlights the race’s rising status on the global endurance calendar. For Al Mannai, the international expansion is more than just a numbers game. “Qatar has always been known for hosting international events,” he said. “Samla is a Qatari brand, created here, and now it’s opening the door for international athletes to experience it.”
Sport Tourism and Cultural Identity
Visit Qatar has played a key role in supporting Samla’s transition into an international event. As part of a broader strategy focused on sports tourism, the initiative aims to showcase Qatar’s unique identity through homegrown sporting concepts. Ahmad Al-Binali, Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, emphasized the significance of the race. “Samla is a Qatari product. The idea started ten years ago and it was very successful locally,” he said. “The collaboration is about taking Samla to the next level and opening it for athletes worldwide.”
Major sporting events like Samla are increasingly important for attracting visitors and promoting Qatar beyond its traditional tourist attractions. By combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and athletic excellence, the race offers a unique experience that resonates with both locals and international participants.
Technical Support for a Tougher Race
The international edition of Samla will also benefit from the support of global sportswear brand ASICS. The partnership brings technical expertise to an already demanding race, reinforcing the event’s commitment to high standards. Seiji Hori, General Manager of ASICS Arabia, highlighted the alignment between the brand’s philosophy and Samla’s design. “Samla is very unique and prestigious, and it’s becoming international,” he said. “It’s a very tough endurance race that requires a lot of mental strength.”
Hori pointed out that endurance sports challenge both body and mind, a principle that Samla embodies. With ASICS’ involvement, athletes can expect advanced gear and support to help them tackle the race’s extreme conditions.
A Milestone for Samla
As Samla prepares for its first international start line, it remains deeply connected to its origins. The race was created in Qatar, shaped by its landscape, and defined by resilience. For Al Mannai, the invitation is clear: “We look forward to hosting everyone here in Qatar,” he said. “To experience the hospitality, enjoy the nature, and enjoy the race.”
The Samla International Race is scheduled to take place on 24 January 2026, marking a new chapter in the event’s history and solidifying Qatar’s position as a hub for elite endurance sports.
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