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First Arabia Luxury Travel Show in Doha For the first time, Qatar hosted the Arabia Luxury Travel Show  in Doha, held from January 12 to 15 , showcasing the country’s position as a premier luxury destination in the Middle East. The event attracted over 160 luxury tour operators  and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) agents  from key markets including Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Moldova,  and the Baltic States . More than 50 prominent hotels , destination management companies , and tourism boards  from across the Middle East, including Qatar, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Turkey,  and the Indian Ocean , participated in the show, spotlighting the region’s world-class luxury tourism offerings . Highlights of the Event The four-day event, hosted at the Ritz Carlton - Doha , featured a robust agenda: Two Days of B2B Meetings:  Facilitating high-level business engagements between buyers and exhibitors. Networking Events:  Building relationships and fostering collaborations within the luxury travel industry. Participants also had the opportunity to explore Qatar’s luxury tourism assets, visiting: Vibrant Souqs World-Class Museums Immaculate Desert Landscapes Qatar’s Iconic Skyline Strengthening Qatar’s Luxury Tourism Goals Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Qatar , commented on the success of the event: "The Arabia Luxury Travel Show has provided Visit Qatar a platform to showcase Qatar’s unique luxury offerings to key international markets. By engaging directly with influential buyers and travel professionals, we continue to position Qatar as a leading destination for discerning travellers. This event aligns with our strategic vision to expand Qatar’s footprint in the global luxury tourism sector while strengthening our presence in key markets." The show emphasized luxury travel  and highlighted Doha’s family-friendly appeal , aligning with Qatar’s Tourism Strategy 2030  to solidify its reputation as a global luxury hub .

Doha, Qatar – January 2025: Qatar has been named the eighth safest country in the world  and the safest in the Middle East for expatriates to live in 2025, according to the latest statistics by the Expatriate Group . The report analyzed data from 128 countries , focusing on the Global Peace Index , Crime Rate Index , and natural disaster risk percentages  to determine the safest locations for expats globally. A Safe Haven for Expats According to the Expatriate Group, Qatar stands out for its low crime rate , political stability , and minimal risk of natural disasters , factors that contribute to its top-tier safety ranking. • Global Ranking:  Qatar ranks eighth overall globally. • Low Crime Rate:  Qatar ranks second globally  for the lowest crime rate, with a Crime Index score of 16.0 . Violent crime is rare, and petty crimes such as theft are infrequent due to strict laws  and strong law enforcement . • Political Stability:  The country’s stable governance, focus on economic development, and international relations create a secure environment for residents. • Minimal Natural Disasters:  Qatar’s geographical location minimizes risks of earthquakes, hurricanes, or flooding. Occasional sandstorms are effectively managed with public safety guidelines. Safety Measures and Security Investments • Advanced Security Systems:  Qatar has heavily invested in state-of-the-art security technology , including surveillance systems, facial recognition software , and intelligence capabilities to proactively identify and prevent threats. • Efficient Law Enforcement:  Qatar’s well-trained police force ensures a zero-tolerance policy  towards crime, maintaining public safety across the country. • Social Harmony:  Qatar’s multicultural society emphasizes mutual respect and tolerance, minimizing conflicts and fostering a sense of community. Empowering Women’s Safety Qatar’s initiatives to enhance women’s safety and empowerment  are noteworthy. These include: • Dedicated women’s police stations. • Legal protections  against gender-based violence. • Programs to promote women’s workforce participation  and active roles in society. Middle East Leader in Safety Qatar is the only country outside of Europe, besides Singapore, to be ranked in the top 10. Within the GCC, Qatar ranks first, followed by: • Bahrain:  13th globally. • Kuwait:  15th globally. • Oman:  24th globally. • UAE:  30th globally. • Saudi Arabia:  54th globally. Over the years, Qatar has consistently been regarded as one of the safest countries for residents and visitors alike, thanks to its robust security framework, efficient law enforcement, and cultural emphasis on respect and tolerance. For more information on the Expatriate Group report, visit their official website.

Doha, Qatar – January 6, 2025 Hamad International Airport (HIA) has announced record-breaking achievements for 2024, serving 52.7 million passengers , a 15% year-on-year increase , further solidifying its position as a leading global hub for connectivity and commerce. Key Milestones in 2024 • Passenger Traffic:  Over 4 million travelers per month, with local passenger traffic growing by 16% , outpacing transfer traffic for the first time. • Aircraft Movements:   279,000 aircraft movements , marking a 10% year-on-year growth . • Cargo Operations:  Handled 2.6 million tonnes of cargo , a 12% increase , and managed 41.3 million bags , reflecting 10% improved efficiency . • Point-to-Point Passengers:  Over 12 million passengers , further highlighting Doha’s appeal as a destination. Global Connectivity and Network Expansion HIA expanded its global reach to 197 destinations  in 2024, supported by 55 airlines , including new partners such as China Southern Airlines , Japan Airlines , and Garuda Indonesia . Key highlights include: • China Traffic Surge:  A remarkable 87% increase  in passenger volumes to China. • Emerging Markets Growth:  Strong performance in Indonesia , Malaysia , and Vietnam . • European Excellence:  Double-digit growth from UK , Germany , Spain , and France . HIA’s hub carrier, Qatar Airways , added several destinations, including Osaka , Hamburg , Lisbon , and Toronto , further boosting passenger volumes across eastern and western markets. Awards and Recognition HIA retained its position as the highest-ranked airport in the Middle East for connectivity, according to the Airport Council International’s (ACI) Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2024 , and was honored with the Skytrax World’s Best Airport Award 2024 . Operational Excellence HIA continues to set benchmarks in passenger experience and operational efficiency. November and December 2024 witnessed passenger volumes surpassing levels recorded during the FIFA World Cup 2022 , underscoring Doha’s growing prominence as a global travel destination. Future Plans Marking its 10th anniversary , HIA is gearing up for its next phase of growth, including: • New Infrastructure:  Adding more gates for enhanced passenger convenience by mid-2025. • Partnerships:  Strengthening global collaborations to drive economic growth. Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at HIA, stated: “Our record-breaking achievements underscore our vision of establishing Qatar as a premier global hub for connectivity, commerce, and tourism. We remain committed to innovation and delivering exceptional passenger experiences.” HIA’s accomplishments in 2024 reaffirm its role as a cornerstone of Qatar’s aviation and tourism sectors, setting the stage for sustained growth in 2025 and beyond.

Doha, Qatar – January 6, 2024: Qatar experienced its coldest morning of the winter season today, as temperatures dropped to a brisk 4°C  in Abu Samra , according to the Qatar Meteorology Department (QMD) . Across the country, temperatures ranged between 4°C and 8°C , marking the lowest readings of the season so far. The QMD reported that the cold spell is expected to persist due to the continued impact of northwesterly winds . While daytime temperatures will remain cool, nighttime conditions  are anticipated to range from cold to very cold in the coming days. Coldest Temperatures Across the Country Several areas recorded their coldest temperatures of the season this morning: • Karanah : 6°C • Turayna and Jumayliyah : 7°C • Al Khor, Dukhan, Ghuwayriyah, Shahaniyah, Mukaynis, and Mesaieed : 8°C • Doha : A relatively milder 13°C Weather Updates In its report, QMD also noted: • Light Rain Possible : Increased cloud cover due to a low-pressure system  may lead to light rain in some areas. • No Marine Warnings : Wave heights are expected to range between 1 and 3 feet , ensuring safe marine conditions. • Fog and Mist Formation : There is a chance of fog or mist  forming late at night, reducing horizontal visibility to less than 2 km . The QMD advised residents to prepare for the colder weather, especially during the nighttime and early morning hours. Stay updated with the latest forecasts and alerts on the Qatar Meteorology Department’s official channels .

Doha, Qatar – January 2025 Visit Qatar has officially launched the highly anticipated Sealine Season  at Sealine Beach , offering three weeks of exhilarating activities and entertainment from January 3 to 27, 2025 . This multi-activity initiative, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Youth , Qatar Sports for All , and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change , is a hub of excitement catering to all ages. What to Expect at Sealine Season Weekday Highlights (Sunday to Wednesday) Paid Activities: • Desert Safaris & Monster Bus Rides:  Thrilling dune rides for adults and kids ( 15:00–17:00 ). • ATV Buggies:  Enjoy off-road adventures with Strong Power Sports . • Horse Riding:  Experience equestrian bliss at Oasis Stables ( 15:00–17:00 ). • Boat Trips:  Explore Qatar’s waters with World Marine Center  ( 15:00–18:00 ). • Tethered Balloon Rides:  Soar above the Sealine landscape with Asfary  ( 15:00–18:00 , weather permitting). Free Activities: • Sports Area:  Join football, volleyball, and mini-soccer ( 15:00–22:00 ). • Kids’ Zone:  Obstacle courses, face painting, and more fun for children ( 12:00–22:00 ). • Falconry & Calligraphy:  Hands-on creative activities for adults ( 15:00–22:00 ).

MG Qatar, in collaboration with Auto Class Cars, the authorized distributor of MG vehicles in Qatar, has unveiled its highly anticipated “End of Year” offer , delivering exceptional benefits and unbeatable prices on selected MG models. The campaign runs until January 15, 2024 , making it the perfect opportunity for customers to own their dream car at attractive prices. MG 7 Exclusive Offers on MG Models The promotion includes competitive starting prices on top MG models: MG 7 : Starting at QAR 84,000 MG GT : Starting at QAR 62,000 MG RX5 : Starting at QAR 74,000 In addition to the affordable pricing, customers can enjoy a range of complimentary benefits, including: One-year free car registration and comprehensive insurance . Six-year warranty  or up to 200,000 km  (whichever comes first). Complimentary window tinting . Financing options are also available through NBK Financial Services , offering special interest rates (terms and conditions apply). MG 7 interior MG 7 – A New Era of Sophistication The MG 7  introduces MG's first-ever large sedan, combining style, performance, and innovative features. Key highlights include: Dynamic Design : Sleek aerodynamic structure with 19-inch wheels and sporty red calipers. Premium Interiors : Ergonomically designed Storm Eye motorsport seats, luxury silk Napa leather, and European piping for an elevated driving experience. Advanced Adjustments : 6-way electric driver’s seat for personalized comfort. MG RX5 MG RX5 – Intelligent and Efficient The all-new MG RX5  is designed for a smarter, safer, and more comfortable driving experience: Powerful Performance : A second-generation Net Blue petrol engine delivering 171hp with improved fuel efficiency of 6.8 l/100km. Refined Interiors : Inspired by home design for a natural and comfortable cabin. Technological Upgrades : Equipped with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission for seamless performance and reliability. MG GT MG GT – A Bold and Sporty Sedan The MG GT  offers a fresh perspective in the sedan market with its aggressive styling and top-tier performance: Engine Excellence : 1.5T turbocharged engine delivering 173 PS and 250 Nm of torque. Dynamic Handling : Sports chassis made of aerospace-grade aluminum, ensuring superior driving stability and comfort. Performance Features : Accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 8 seconds with advanced XDS curve dynamic control. MG 7 2.0 Visit and Learn More Customers can explore these offers by visiting the Auto Class Cars showroom on Salwa Road  or the official MG Qatar website at www.mg-qa.com .

Doha, Qatar – December 2024 Visit Qatar  has officially announced the return of Shop Qatar , the country’s largest and most anticipated shopping festival, scheduled to run from January 1 to February 1, 2025 . Under the theme “Your Shopping Playground,”  the festival will bring together 20 participating malls and shopping venues , offering unbeatable discounts, family-friendly entertainment, and incredible prizes. Unmissable Shopping & Entertainment Shop Qatar 2025 promises an exciting lineup of shopping experiences , featuring exclusive offers from luxury , high-street , and local retailers . Visitors can enjoy: • Weekly Raffle Draws : Extraordinary prizes, including luxury Exeed cars , cash rewards ranging from QAR 10,000 to QAR 100,000 , and the grand prize—a Tesla Cybertruck . • Family-Friendly Entertainment : Interactive activity corners, roaming parades, and meet-and-greets with beloved Spacetoon characters . • Cultural and Retail Experiences : Traditional bazaars showcasing perfumes, abayas, and handcrafted accessories. Eng. Ahmed Albinali , Director of Festivals & Events at Visit Qatar, stated: “Shop Qatar continues to be one of Qatar’s flagship events, combining retail, culture, and entertainment. The 9th edition is set to elevate shopping and leisure experiences, thanks to our partners’ continued support. We welcome everyone to this festival, which reflects Qatar’s position as a hub for world-class experiences.” Opening & Closing Ceremonies • Opening Ceremony : Held at Place Vendôme  on January 1, featuring a live performance by Lebanese singer Abeer Nehme , vibrant parades, influencer appearances, and exclusive announcements. • Closing Ceremony : Scheduled for February 1 at Doha Festival City , with the final raffle draw for the Tesla Cybertruck, special performances, and the Mall & Retail Awards  celebrating excellence in branding, customer experience, and teamwork. Entertainment Schedule Highlights Shop Qatar 2025 offers entertainment for all ages across participating malls: • Barbie Dreamhouse : Doha Festival City (Jan 1–31) • Mr. Bean : Place Vendôme (Jan 1–31) • Shaun the Sheep : Lagoona Mall (Jan 16–31) • Masha and The Bear : Doha Oasis (Jan 23–29) • Miraculous : Mall of Qatar (Jan 16–31) • Daily Roaming Parades : Across all participating venues Participating Malls The festival spans 20 locations  across Qatar, including Place Vendôme , Doha Festival City , Mall of Qatar , Lusail Boulevard , and Villaggio Mall , among others. Raffle Draw Details Shoppers spending QAR 200  at any participating venue can redeem receipts for raffle draws at designated booths. Weekly draws will take place at: • Jan 10 : Mall of Qatar • Jan 17 : Lusail Boulevard • Jan 24 : Place Vendôme • Feb 1 : Doha Festival City Exclusive Shopping Offers Participating retailers will provide special discounts across categories such as fashion , electronics , beauty , and homeware , offering visitors an unparalleled shopping experience. For more information, visit Visit Qatar .

Doha, Qatar – December 2024: Qatar Tourism proudly announces a record-breaking achievement as the country surpasses five million visitors  in 2024, marking a remarkable 25% growth  in international arrivals compared to the previous year. This milestone reinforces Qatar’s position as a premier global tourism destination and highlights its commitment to delivering unique and world-class visitor experiences. HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji , Chairman of Qatar Tourism, expressed his pride in this achievement: “Surpassing five million visitors is a landmark accomplishment for Qatar, bringing us closer to realizing our vision of positioning the country as one of the world’s fastest-growing, family-friendly premier destinations. This milestone underscores the effectiveness of our strategy and the collaborative efforts of our stakeholders. It’s both a celebration of our achievements and a foundation for future growth as we continue to deliver unique experiences and service excellence for every visitor.” Key Highlights of 2024: • Visitor Growth : 25% year-on-year increase compared to 2023. • Room Nights Sold : Nearly 10 million room nights sold, exceeding the target of 8.8 million. • Visitor Demographics : • 41%  from GCC nationals. • 59%  from international markets, with strong growth from Saudi Arabia , India , United Kingdom , Germany , and the United States . • Visitor Entry Modes : • 56% by air . • 37% by land . • 7% by sea . Exceptional Events and Peaks in Visitor Numbers Qatar’s tourism success in 2024 was propelled by a series of high-profile events and attractions, including: • The AFC Asian Cup  in January, which set the tone for a record-breaking year. • The thriving 2024/2025 cruise season , drawing international cruise travelers. • The Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix  and record visitor numbers from Saudi Arabia during the November school holidays. Ambitious Future Goals Qatar Tourism’s vision for the future is ambitious. Between 2022 and 2030 , the country aims to: • Nearly triple visitor numbers. • Double tourism in-destination spending. • Increase tourism’s contribution to GDP to 10-12%. HE Mr. Al Kharji  stated: “Our goals are ambitious but achievable. The continuous growth of our tourism industry reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that highlight Qatar’s cultural heritage, family-friendly attractions, and world-class hospitality.” A Growing Hospitality Sector Qatar’s hospitality sector also demonstrated significant growth, with 40,000 hotel keys  now available. This development reflects Qatar’s focus on catering to diverse travelers, offering accommodations and services that meet global standards. Looking Ahead Qatar reaffirms its commitment to welcoming visitors from around the world with its unique landmarks, vibrant culture, and world-class family destinations. With its ambitious goals and strategic approach, Qatar continues to solidify its position as a leading global tourist destination. For more information, visit Visit Qatar’s official website .

The second Souq Waqif Truffle Exhibition and Auction kicked off yesterday morning at the Eastern Square of Souq Waqif. On its opening day, the exhibition showcased white and brown truffles from Algeria and Saudi Arabia, offering a rare and sought-after culinary delicacy for local food enthusiasts and traders. The exhibition will be open daily from 8am to 12pm, or until stocks of the prized truffles, known locally as Fagga, run out. The event, in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Municipality, is expected to run for at least four months. During Ramadan, however, operating hours will be adjusted. Truffles, a type of underground fungus that grows in desert sands during the rainy season, are highly coveted for their distinct taste and rarity.  Prices for truffles vary by type, size, and delivery volume. Currently, white truffles (Zubaidi) are priced between QR600 and QR1,200 per kilogram, while the brown Ikhlasi variety starts at QR150 per kilogram.  Al Ishaq anticipates a price drop as supply increases, with up to 1,000 to 2,000 boxes of larger truffles expected in the coming months. To ensure the quality of the truffles, a representative from the Ministry of Municipality is on-site daily to inspect the produce.  Fagga, an essential part of Gulf cuisine, is especially popular in Qatar, where it is incorporated into various traditional dishes, including Majboos. Truffles hold cultural and historical significance in the region, having been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries.

Visit Qatar is launching a first-of-its-kind desert activation at Ras Abrouq, a premium destination that caters to the entire family, offering adventure, relaxation and cultural enrichment. Situated on the edge of the Unesco-protected Al Reem Biosphere Reserve in north-west Qatar, these activations present a new desert experience for visitors and residents alike. Set to run from December  18 until January 18, the Visit Qatar activation at Ras Abrouq offers a collection of immersive zones. Highlights include Our Habitas Resort, The Desert Escape, Film City, Wildlife Park, and the Glamping Zone. Ahmed Hamad Al Binali, the Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, said, “At Visit Qatar, our goal is to diversify our offering ensuring that every visitor, regardless of age, can enjoy a range of interactive and engaging experiences. From entertaining activities at the Film City zone, to the excitement of the Desert Escape with hot air balloon rides and a wide range of activations, every element is tailored to offer something for everyone.” He added, “We’ve also incorporated cultural installations, live performances, and educational workshops and daily camel parades enabling families to connect with Qatar’s heritage while immersing themselves in its desert landscapes.” The Film City zone will offer a coffee shop, a gift shop, and an exhibition in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife park rides, camel, pony, and horse rides, as well as a unique photo activation. Children’s workshops, traditional Qatari installations such as the Al Hosh majlis, and engaging live performances ensure there is something for everyone. Performances include an illusionist show, mystic storytelling, and the Desert Mirage Dance. The Wildlife Park will include safari-like experiences, with camel and horse routes allowing guests to explore the animal zones. The Glamping Zone provides a luxurious yet affordable, family-friendly desert camping experience, featuring private tents, outdoor lounges, and serene settings for relaxation. The Desert Escape will offer a variety of activities, including hot air balloon rides, trampolines, archery, and stargazing. Visitors can also enjoy live performances, such as acrobatic shows and falcon demonstrations. Interactive activations include a roaming parade, kids’ treasure hunts, and cultural installations. This zone will also include a restaurant and a food lounge. Our Habitas offers a variety of affordable packages, including options for weekdays, weekends, half-day passes, one-day passes, and wellness passes. Specialised packages featuring stargazing, hot air balloon rides, and more are also available.

Under the patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the 14th Traditional Dhow Festival is set to kick off Wednesday at the Cultural Village Foundation - Katara, continuing until December 7, 2024. The festival stands as one of the region’s most significant cultural events, celebrating the rich maritime heritage of the Gulf states and the wider world. Katara’s Director of Public Relations and Communications Department, Salem Mabkhout Al Marri, highlighted the participation of 10 friendly and sisterly countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Palestine, Iraq, India, Tanzania, and Iran, alongside Qatar as the host nation. This international presence reflects the cultural and maritime diversity of the Gulf and beyond. Al Marri added that the festival will offer an array of activities, including maritime art shows held on Thursdays and Fridays. A key highlight is a special opera marking the launch of the 6th Fath Al Khair cruise, which celebrates the maritime history of the region. Visitors will also experience daily performances of Gulf music and traditional arts, including Omani marine art, offering insight into the maritime cultural richness of the region. The event features unique attractions, such as the natural pearl show, where visitors can learn about crafting and selling pearls, as well as the techniques of opening oysters to extract pearls—an integral part of the region’s history. In addition to the art shows, the festival will host daily cultural symposia from Saturdays to Wednesdays, focusing on maritime heritage, diving, marine navigation, and the Gulf’s historical ties to the sea. Professional workshops on shipbuilding, fishing equipment, and traditional handcrafts will also be part of the program. As a platform for cultural exchange, the festival celebrates the Gulf’s marine legacy, fostering appreciation for its role in shaping the region’s identity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich traditions, arts, and skills that define the Gulf’s maritime heritage.

Doha, Qatar – 25 November 2024: Qatar National Library (QNL) celebrated the nation’s rich cultural heritage by hosting the second edition of its seminar series, “Memory of Private Collections in Qatar.”  The event took place with the esteemed presence of His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani , Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs; His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari , Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library; and Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater , Minister of Education and Higher Education, along with distinguished guests and cultural leaders. Preserving National Heritage The series highlights the critical role of family libraries and private collections  in preserving Qatar’s history, traditions, and cultural identity. The latest edition showcased the collections of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Mana  and Sheikh Hamed bin Ahmed Al-Marwani , whose rare books and documents reflect Qatar’s scientific and cultural renaissance . During the event, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari  emphasized the importance of family collections, stating: “These collections fill narrative gaps in Qatar’s history and provide invaluable historical materials. They play a vital role in preserving the past and shaping the future by enriching knowledge and fostering national identity.” Honoring Pioneers of Knowledge One of the highlighted figures, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Mana , significantly contributed to Qatar’s educational foundation. He established the Al-Atharia School  in 1915 and created an affiliated library to provide essential resources to students, marking a milestone in the country’s intellectual progress. The event underscored QNL’s mission to safeguard private collections as part of the nation’s cultural legacy , ensuring they remain accessible to future generations. Promoting Qatar’s Heritage The seminar series is a testament to QNL’s commitment to preserving Qatar’s cultural treasures  and showcasing the role of individuals in documenting the country’s history. Through these initiatives, QNL strengthens its position as a beacon of knowledge  and a custodian of national heritage . For more updates on QNL’s events and initiatives, visit Qatar National Library’s website .