The centre focuses on using debate as a language learning tool to teach critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity and civic awareness.

[2][3] QatarDebate was established in 2008 under the direction of Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation,[4] with support from the team behind the Doha Debates.

QatarDebate's aim is to "shape the global citizens of today and the intellectual leaders of tomorrow in Qatar and the region" through the introduction of a variety of English and Arabic debate programs.

[7] QatarDebate was awarded the rights to host the 2010 World Schools Debating Championships, becoming the first Arab-based society to do so.

[8] A biennial event known as the International Universities Arabic Debating Championship is held under the auspices of QatarDebate.

[13] The Al Jazeera Media Institute signed an agreement in May 2023 with the QatarDebate Centre to cooperate on providing services, which will develop young Arabs abilities to debate and criticise.

[18] In December 2023, the ‘Oasis of Dialogue’ series which is organized by the QatarDebate Centre and the Al Jazeer Media Institute, held the eighth session entitled “Human Rights Advocacy in Time of War”.