Doha: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF) and Qatar Tourism represented by Visit Qatar, has officially launched the second edition of the “Purple Saturday 2026” initiative. The campaign aims to further promote the integration and empowerment of persons with disabilities while fostering a more inclusive shopping and tourism experience across the country.
Announced yesterday, the initiative builds on the success of last year’s inaugural edition, which marked Qatar’s entry into a wider GCC-wide movement that originated in Saudi Arabia in 2021. Purple Saturday is observed annually on the last Saturday of July, symbolising regional solidarity in advancing accessibility, awareness, and community participation for people with disabilities.
According to MoCI, the 2026 edition seeks to encourage commercial establishments to provide easier access to services and products, along with tailored offers and promotions that enhance independence and societal inclusion. In a post on the X platform it said that the key objectives include simplifying shopping environments, promoting universal design principles, and highlighting the contributions of persons with disabilities as active consumers and community members.
The campaign features a range of benefits for participating outlets, including special discounts, priority services, and adapted facilities within malls, retail stores, hotels, and tourism venues. A dedicated digital platform has been established for commercial entities to register and join the initiative. Businesses can select services, choose promotional offers, and confirm participation through a streamlined six-step online process via MoCI’s portal.
MoCI has called on all commercial establishments to actively participate and register promptly to make this year’s edition even more impactful. The ministry emphasised that widespread involvement from the private sector is essential to creating a truly inclusive marketplace that reflects Qatar’s commitment to supporting all segments of society.
This year’s Purple Saturday aligns with Qatar’s broader national vision for social development and accessibility.
By partnering with key government bodies and tourism stakeholders, the initiative not only raises awareness but also delivers tangible benefits, such as exclusive deals for cardholders and enhanced experiences at major events.
Officials highlighted that the campaign goes beyond one-day events, aiming to embed inclusivity into everyday commercial practices. Persons with disabilities holding valid identification or the Purple Saturday digital card will be able to enjoy special privileges at participating venues throughout the designated period.
The launch of the second edition underscores Qatar’s ongoing efforts to build an equitable society where everyone can participate fully.
Stakeholders from retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors are expected to play a pivotal role in driving meaningful change through innovative services and community-focused programmes.
As the initiative gains momentum, residents and visitors are encouraged to support participating businesses and celebrate the spirit of inclusion that Purple Saturday represents.
Further details on registration and offers are available through official ministry channels and the Visit Qatar platform.
