2011 Pan Arab Games
The 2011 Pan Arab Games also known as the 12th Pan Arab Games took place in Doha, Qatar from 6 to 23 December 2011. This was the first time that the country had hosted the multi-sport event. Khalifa International Stadium was the main venue for the competition. Preparation. Host selection. Qatar was awarded rights to organise the games beating Lebanon in the bidding process. Arab Federation for Sports secretary general Othman al-Saad said that Qatar's hosting of the Pan-Arab Games would give the event "more momentum and significance in light of the  huge capabilities and world-class sports facilities which Qatar owns." Khalifa International Stadium was chosen to be the focal point of the games, hosting the opening ceremonies, while the closing ceremonies were held on Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. Mascot and medals. Wathnan, a graceful yet fun-spirited white Arabian horse was designed as the mascot for the Games. An important animal in Arabian culture, the horse is a symbol of great strength and agility. Pearl and emerald studded Bronze, Silver, and Gold medals were awarded to winning athletes, accompanied by mascot stuffed toy. The medals were measured 70 mm in  diameter and 6 mm in thickness with base made out of pewter. Participating National Olympic Committees. Initially, all twenty-two nations of the Union of Arab National Olympic Committees were scheduled to compete at the games. However, Syria withdrew its team in November 2011 in protest of the Arab League's suspension of the country's membership. Paralympic Medal Standings. Medals in 30 Para Athletics and 1 Goalball events were awarded to athletes from respective participating nations. However, as demonstration events, they were not counted into the official medal table.