A celebration of brotherhood

The Qatar Batabit Show is more than just an annual motorcycle event – it’s a testament to the shared passion that defines the global Harley Owners Group^® community, says Polina Krasnova

The Qatar Batabit Show took place between 20 and 21 February and saw an impressive turnout, with 1,189 motorcycles participating in the grand parade and more than 15,000 enthusiasts coming together to celebrate the spirit of two wheels. Riders from Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Bahrain and beyond made their way to Qatar.

The event was organised by the Batabit Qatar Motorcycle Club, a thriving community that promotes motorcycle culture while emphasising safety, skill development and responsible riding. It has grown into a flagship event in the region, drawing international participants and featuring thrilling activities. This year’s show boasted a panel of international judges to find the best bikes on display: Ricky C López of Old Custom Flames, Stéphane Grand of T4 Motorcycles, Kaichiroh Kurosu of Cherrys Company and Chris and Heather Callen of Cycle Source magazine chose the best custom-built motorcycles in 16 categories such as Best of the Best, Bobber, Radical, Chicano Style, Softail, Metric Touring, Custom Touring and Classic/Vintage Class.

In the Middle East, H.O.G.^® represents more than just a collective of Harley-Davidson owners – it’s a brotherhood built on adventure, camaraderie and a passion for the open road. In 2021, H.O.G. chapters across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region united to form a cooperative council, strengthening the bonds between riders throughout the Arabian Gulf.

H.O.G. Qatar Chapter, operating out of the Harley-Davidson^® Doha dealership, played a key role in welcoming riders from across the region to the show. Under the leadership of Ayman Mohamad Ali and Mohamad Dib, the chapter organised a special gathering at the dealership ahead of the event, where approximately 300 riders from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Kuwait and Oman came together before setting off on a group ride to the show.

A passionate community
The Qatar Batabit Show also attracted another growing group within the Harley-Davidson riding community: lady bikers. Attending the show was 52-year-old Fatma M Dashti, who is not only an accomplished engineer and certified life coach but also a passionate Harley-Davidson rider. Originally from Kuwait, Fatma took up motorcycling in her late-40s, choosing a 2022 Harley-Davidson Street Bob^® 114 as her first bike. “Riding allows me to experience the world in a way that few other things can,” she shares.

A member of Ladies of Harley^® since 2022, her message for other women considering motorcycling is clear: “Don’t let fear or societal expectations hold you back. The road is for everyone, and every woman deserves to experience the freedom of riding.”

Also at the show was Haifaa Khalaf, a 30-year-old from Syria, who began her motorcycling journey four years ago. Working as a freelancer in the logistics field, Haifaa sought something that would take her away from the stresses of daily life, and riding a motorcycle became the perfect outlet.

Haifaa’s introduction to Harley-Davidson came with the purchase of her first bike, a Sportster^® 1200. Her current ride, a Street Bob^® Dyna^®, reflects her deeper connection to the brand. “Harley gives me more confidence and a unique vibe that makes every ride special,” she says.

Being part of a growing community of female riders in Syria, Haifaa is proud to be part of groups dedicated to supporting women in motorcycling. One of her most exciting experiences was riding from Riyadh to the Batabit event, which reinforced her love for the open road.

For Haifaa, motorcycling isn’t just about the ride. “Riding clears the mind and gives you the opportunity to leave behind negative thoughts,” she reflects. To other women, she offers this sage advice: “Find the confidence and happiness that comes with riding and join a supportive community – it will change your life.”

The continued success of the Qatar Batabit Show reflects the dedication of its organisers, the passion of its participants and the unwavering support of the host country. As Batabit Motorcycle Club looks to the future, it remains committed to uniting riders, promoting safe motorcycling and providing a platform for the region’s motorcycle enthusiasts to express their creativity and dedication.