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Doha, Qatar – November 2024 The Cultural Village Foundation - Katara  has officially unveiled the details of the highly anticipated 6th Qatar International Arts Festival (QIAF 2024) . Scheduled to take place from November 25 to 30 , the event is organized in collaboration with MAPS International , the International Council of Museums , and the British Council . A Global Celebration of Art and Culture Dr. Nadia Al Mudahka , Katara’s Director of Research and Studies, highlighted during a press conference that the festival reflects Katara’s commitment to spreading culture  and enhancing artistic interaction . “This festival embodies our aspirations to deepen cooperation for intercultural communication by bringing together artists from diverse schools and traditions,”  she said. The festival will feature a wide range of visual artists from across the globe , showcasing diverse creations that promote cultural diversity  and artistic dialogue . This event aims to transcend borders and languages, fostering meaningful connections among cultures. Key Highlights of QIAF 2024 • Global Participation : The festival will welcome approximately 350 participants  from 73 countries . • International Pavilions : 16 pavilions  will represent countries such as Qatar, the US, UK, France, Spain, Iran, China, Russia, Armenia, and more. • Unique Activities : Attendees can experience activities such as an underwater dive  and a pointe ballet dance  performance. • Art Exhibitions : The event will feature 15 galleries  showcasing exceptional artwork from around the world. • Award Ceremony : On November 30 , the festival will conclude with an award ceremony honoring distinguished works and artists. Rashmi Agarwal , Founder and President of MAPS International, stated: “The Qatar International Arts Festival will gather a vibrant array of talent, further cementing Qatar’s status as a hub for cultural and artistic exchange. This year’s edition promises to be bigger and more adventurous than ever before.” For more details about the event, visit www.katara.net .

The U.S. Embassy in Qatar  has announced that Qatari citizens are now eligible to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) , enabling visa-free travel to the United States for up to 90 days  for tourism or business purposes. This landmark development marks Qatar’s inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program , making it the first Gulf nation to join this initiative. Quick, Easy, and Affordable Travel Eligible travelers can submit their ESTA applications online or via the “ESTA Mobile” app  available on iOS and Android devices. The process is designed to be quick and user-friendly, with approvals typically granted within 72 hours . ESTA authorizations are valid for two years  or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing multiple entries to the U.S. during this period. How to Apply : Visit the official ESTA website  or the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website . Submit your application online or via the mobile app. Wait for approval, which is usually granted within 72 hours. Strengthening Bilateral Relations This initiative reflects the growing strategic partnership between Qatar and the United States. It is expected to facilitate easier travel, promote cultural exchange, and foster stronger economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. For more information, visit the official ESTA website  or the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s website . https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/

Simaisma, Qatar – November 21, 2024 The “Land of Legends” project , an ambitious tourism and entertainment development, was officially unveiled with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The project, a collaboration between Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company and FTG Development, aims to redefine the region’s tourism and entertainment offerings. A Visionary Development Spanning over 8 million square meters along a 7-kilometer beachfront, the Land of Legends project is set to become one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East. Key features include: • Massive Theme Park: Covering 650,000 square meters with state-of-the-art attractions. • 18-Hole Golf Course: Offering a premium golfing experience. • Yacht Club and Marina: Featuring world-class facilities for leisure and recreation. • Beach Club, Shops, and Restaurants: Providing diverse lifestyle and entertainment options. • Residential Villas: Designed for luxury living. Focus on Sustainability The project emphasizes sustainability and the integration of smart systems to create an environmentally responsible destination. This aligns with Qatar’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship as part of its National Vision 2030. Development Timeline The first phase of the project will focus on the theme park, aiming to attract investment and boost tourism. The entire development is expected to be completed by 2028, positioning Qatar as a premier global destination for tourism and entertainment. A Transformational Project The Land of Legends project underscores Qatar’s dedication to diversifying its economy and enhancing its tourism sector. With its innovative design, cutting-edge facilities, and focus on sustainability, the project is poised to become a cornerstone of Qatar’s tourism and entertainment landscape. For more information, visit www.qataridiar.com .

Doha, Qatar – November 2024 The Qatar Digital Library (QDL)  has been awarded the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information (AFLI) Award  for the Best Arab Initiative , recognizing its pivotal role in preserving the documentary heritage of the Gulf region and the Arab world. The award was presented during the 35th AFLI Conference  held in Muscat, Oman , from November 12 to 14, 2024 , under the theme “Libraries and Arab Archive Institutions and Their Role in Enhancing Identity and Digital Citizenship.” His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari , Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library (QNL) , received the award from His Highness Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said , President of Sultan Qaboos University, at an event attended by leading academics and library experts across the Arab world. A Decade of Achievement Launched in October 2014 , the Qatar Digital Library was created through a partnership between Qatar National Library , Qatar Foundation , and the British Library . It is the world’s largest digital repository dedicated to heritage documents, manuscripts, and scientific discoveries in Arab and Islamic civilization, with a focus on the Gulf region and the Arab world. Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Al Kawari remarked: “This achievement underscores Qatar National Library’s dedication to its mission as a premier knowledge hub. Over the past decade, QDL has become the foremost reference on the history of the Gulf, the Arab world, and the broader Middle East, preserving invaluable cultural heritage and making it accessible to researchers worldwide.” Celebrating QDL’s Legacy Earlier this year, on September 30 , Qatar National Library marked the 10th anniversary of QDL  with a conference titled “Unlocking Histories: 10 Years of Qatar Digital Library.”  The event brought together scholars, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the rich resources available on the platform and its role in facilitating historical research. With nearly 2.5 million digitized pages , QDL houses historical materials on topics such as trade, World Wars, the petroleum industry, treaties, marine navigation, Arab nationalism, and rare Arabic manuscripts covering fields like medicine, astronomy, and mathematics. The platform attracts an average of 200,000 users  and over 2 million page views annually , solidifying its status as a critical resource for researchers. Recognizing Excellence Dr. Al Kawari added: “This award celebrates the dedication of our team in safeguarding cultural heritage and reinforces QNL’s position as a bastion of knowledge. We remain committed to supporting researchers and academics across the region through innovative platforms like QDL.” For more information, visit www.qdl.qa .

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – November 20, 2024 The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation , the OECD Network of Foundations Working for Development (netFWD) , and Fundação Getulio Vargas’ Division for the Development of Public Management and Educational Policies (FGV DGPE)  co-hosted a high-level event titled “Catalyzing Change: Education’s Role in Building a Just and Sustainable Future”  during the G20 Leaders’ Summit  in Rio de Janeiro. This event emphasized the critical role of education in addressing climate change, promoting equity, and fostering resilience, aligning with Brazil’s G20 Presidency theme: “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” Event Highlights The two-part event consisted of: • High-Level Breakfast : Global leaders delivered opening remarks, exploring the intersections of education, climate, and health. A round-table discussion followed, focusing on integrating education into climate and health policies to tackle global challenges. • Technical Session : Panel discussions and workshops addressed innovative financing for education, climate-resilient learning, foundations’ roles in sustainable development, and youth-led advocacy. Key Insights and Statements Mohamed Al Kubaisi , Acting CEO of EAA Foundation, highlighted: “To achieve sustainable development goals and ensure equitable access to quality education, we must prioritise innovative financing solutions and collaborative approaches. EAA has provided educational opportunities to over 19 million out-of-school children across 60 countries, leveraging nearly USD 3 billion in co-funding through strategic partnerships.” Henrique Paim , Director of FGV DGPE, stated: “Education is a cornerstone in addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges. Forward-looking pedagogical practices must prioritise quality teaching, meaningful learning outcomes, and the essential rights to inclusion and social equity.” Federico Bonaglia , Deputy Director of the OECD Development Centre, underscored: “Philanthropy has a pivotal role in addressing global challenges, contributing USD 42 billion to development from 2016 to 2019, with most resources directed to education. This event reinforces philanthropy’s importance in multilateral discussions and its integration into global development priorities.” A Global Call to Action With Brazil’s G20 Presidency emphasizing social inclusion , sustainable energy transitions , and global governance reform , the event sought to galvanize global commitments to: • Expanding educational access for marginalized communities. • Strengthening climate resilience through education. • Advancing equitable development through innovative financing and cross-sector collaboration. As the dialogue continues, this initiative sets the stage for future collaborations, including engaging with South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025 , to amplify the role of education in driving systemic reform and resilience worldwide. For more information, visit www.educationaboveall.org .

Doha, Qatar – November 2024 The Ministry of Transport (MoT)  has announced the completion of the first phase of the Water Taxi project , a milestone unveiled during the Qatar Boat Show at Old Doha Port. The initial phase includes the completion of the Lusail Ferry Terminal  and two ferry stops at Pearl Ferry Stop  and Corniche Ferry Stop . This ambitious project aims to provide a modern, eco-friendly waterborne public transportation system, enhancing connectivity across Qatar and supporting Qatar Tourism’s plans  to promote domestic travel. The Water Taxi project is aligned with the National Tourism Strategy 2030 , focusing on sustainability, economic diversification, and advanced technology integration. Lusail Ferry Terminal and Ferry Stops The Lusail Ferry Terminal  spans an area of over 2,200 sqm  and features a pontoon equipped with electric chargers  capable of accommodating four 24-meter-long ferries. The terminal includes a waiting area , ticketing facility , and various service facilities such as retail outlets and offices. The Pearl Ferry Stop  and Corniche Ferry Stop  are similarly equipped with pontoons, ticketing offices, and customer service facilities. Future Phases of the Water Taxi Project The MoT revealed plans for future expansion: • Phase Two : Covering key locations such as Katara , Old Doha Port , Hamad International Airport , and Al Wakra . • Phase Three : Extending connections from Old Doha Port  to Al Khour  in northern Qatar, passing through Lusail City  and Simaisma , with further studies planned. Promoting Qatar’s Tourism and Community Engagement The Water Taxi project contributes to elevating Qatar’s tourism profile by promoting ferry-based domestic travel. In addition, the MoT booth at the Qatar Boat Show highlights: • Digital services for vessels  available on the MoT website. • The Automatic Identification System (AIS)  for improved ship safety and tracking during inspections. • The Skipper Plus moisture meter , designed to ensure the structural integrity of wooden and fiberglass boats, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Panel Discussions and Industry Insights On the sidelines of the Qatar Boat Show, the MoT is hosting two panel discussions in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) : 1. Safe Navigation : Raising awareness about boat types and safe navigation practices. 2. Unmanned Ships : Exploring the reliability and benefits of unmanned ships and technological advancements for smaller and leisure boats. Statements from Key Stakeholders His Excellency Capt. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Khanji , CEO of Mwani Qatar, said: “The Water Taxi project supports Qatar’s goal of achieving sustainable and advanced transportation systems, benefiting both residents and visitors.” Salem Al Marri , Public Relations and Communications Director at Katara, commented: “The project enhances Qatar’s marine tourism landscape and aligns with our mission to support cultural diversity and community engagement.” The MoT continues to work on selecting the project operator and the types of ferries to be used, aiming to deliver seamless integration with the Sila public transit system . For more information, visit www.mot.gov.qa .

Doha, Qatar – December 2024 The Qatar Balloon Festival  is set to return for its highly anticipated fifth edition , featuring over 50 hot air balloons  from 21 countries . The 10-day event will be held from December 12 to 21, 2024 , at the southern parking area of the Katara Cultural Village , promising to be the most spectacular edition yet. Organized by Safe Flight Solutions  in collaboration with Visit Qatar  and the Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) , this festival is packed with exciting new attractions and family-friendly activities. Festival Highlights The 2024 Qatar Balloon Festival will showcase a diverse range of balloons, including special-shaped and traditional round balloons from countries like Brazil, France, the UK, Japan, and more. Key highlights include: • Morning Flights:  Witness breathtaking views as balloons take off at sunrise from various locations across Qatar, weather permitting. • Afternoon and Evening Activities:  Enjoy tethered balloon spectacles, nightglow events, and laser shows daily from 3 PM to 10 PM  at the festival site in Katara. • On-Site Balloon Construction:  For the first time, attendees can watch the creation of a hot air balloon, culminating in its inflation and test flight. • Family Activities:  Kite-building workshops, bouncing castles, carnival games, food kiosks, and merchandise stalls will keep visitors of all ages entertained. Community Initiatives The festival includes several community-focused initiatives: • Subsidized Balloon Flights:  1,000 tickets are available at half price ( QR499 ) through Asfary.com , bookable starting today, November 12 , until March 31, 2025 . • Blood Donation Drive:  In partnership with Aster Hospital  and Hamad Medical Corporation , a blood donation drive will be held on December 16  from 3 PM to 9 PM . Statements from Organizers Abdulrahman Al Muftah , Manager of Festivals & Events Planning at Visit Qatar, stated: “Visit Qatar is proud to continue its partnership with the Qatar Balloon Festival for its fifth edition. As a flagship event, it showcases Qatar’s unique appeal to both international visitors and the local community, aligning with our goal to position Qatar as a leading cultural destination.” Hassan Al Mousawi , CEO of Safe Flight Solutions, commented: “We are thrilled to bring together a diverse array of hot air balloons from around the world. This festival fosters community engagement and reinforces Qatar’s reputation as a premier destination for cultural and family-friendly events.” Salem Al Marri , Public Relations and Communications Director at Katara, added: “Hosting the Qatar Balloon Festival aligns with Katara’s mission to support cultural diversity and community initiatives. We look forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy the vibrant activities and displays.” Participating countries include Algeria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Kazakhstan, Macedonia, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the USA. Tickets and Booking Information Tickets for the 2024 Qatar Balloon Festival  are now available on Asfary.com . Don’t miss the chance to experience Qatar’s most colorful and exciting event of the year!

The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) issued an official statement addressing recent discussions about the exclusive use of the national card, Himyan, for payments at government agencies. QCB clarified that this payment method is part of a phased digital transformation initiative set to commence in February 2025. The initiative aims to enhance the security of government transactions and lower costs associated with payment processing.  QCB emphasized that the quality of services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors in Qatar will remain unaffected throughout this transition. Furthermore, QCB said it is closely monitoring the deployment of financial products and digital transformation initiatives in Qatar. The Central bank said that it will provide the public with the detailed information about the transition, ensuring easy access to government services.

With less than 30 days left until the launch of the first edition of the Qatar Boat Show 2024. For this edition, Old Doha Port announced that over 95% of the on-water slots are reserved thus approaching full capacity with the participation of many international and local companies and yacht manufacturers. The anticipation of the Qatar Boat Show, which is slated to be held from November 6 to 9, 2024, is high with a few weeks remaining from the promising exhibitions of superyachts and boats, thrilling ongoing water sports, and industry workshops and panels. Over 90% of the on-ground yacht displays for boats, marine equipment, and corporate spaces are reserved for the inaugural edition of the Qatar Boat Show. The Qatar Boat Show will be receiving leading companies and brands within the maritime industry. Incredible local talent will be showcasing boats and marine vessels made in Qatar, many of which will be featured for the first time in the region. Exhibitors will be able to establish valuable relationships, expand their networks, and create business opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with both local and international brands as well as discover new investment opportunities within the region. Furthermore, exhibitors will enjoy exclusive previews of more than 75 yachts and watercrafts, including groundbreaking new models and innovative designs. They will gain insights into the latest trends and developments in boat technology, design, and sustainability through insightful seminars and workshops led by industry experts. Other exhibitors include Corinthia Yacht Club, Antoine Karam, Milaha, Pacific Marine, Fendress, Captain's Club, Al Kous Marine, Aldhaen Marine, Oceanco, Feadship, The World of Yachts, and Heesen Yachts amongst many others. for more reference please do visit the official webpage of the boat show https://boatshowqatar.com/

Doha, Qatar – November 2024 Qatar Tourism  has officially kicked off its 2024/2025 cruise season  with the arrival of the Resorts World One Cruise Ship . This season is set to be Qatar’s largest yet, with 95 cruise calls scheduled, including 33 turnaround calls, 11 homeporting calls, and 4 maiden calls. Running from November 2024 to April 2025 , the season is expected to welcome over 430,000 passengers , solidifying Qatar’s status as a premier cruise destination. The Resorts World One , making its first maiden call of the season, will have 23 scheduled visits, bringing approximately 72,000 visitors . Notable cruise ships such as Mein Schiff 4 , MSC Euribia , AIDAprima , Costa Smeralda , Norwegian Sky , and Celestyal Journey  will also visit, highlighting Qatar’s appeal to global cruise travelers. Following a successful 2023/2024 season, which saw 73 cruise ships and over 347,000 visitors, the new season represents a significant milestone in Qatar’s cruise industry growth. His Excellency Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji , Chairman of Qatar Tourism, emphasized the role of Qatar’s cruise sector in achieving the National Tourism Strategy 2030 : “The growth of Qatar’s cruise sector is pivotal to our National Tourism Strategy 2030. With a 30% increase in cruise calls and 24.5% more visitors expected this season, Qatar continues to position itself as a leading destination for cruise travelers worldwide.” His Excellency Capt. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Khanji , CEO of Mwani Qatar , added: “Doha Port is fully prepared to host 95 scheduled cruises, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all guests. The remarkable increase in visitor numbers and cruise arrivals reflects Qatar’s standing as a key cruise destination in the region.” Conveniently located near key attractions such as the National Museum of Qatar  and Souq Waqif , Doha Port’s cruise terminal optimizes visitor experiences by enabling cruise passengers to explore the city. Looking ahead, Qatar Tourism  aims to strengthen partnerships with international cruise lines, supporting growth in Qatar’s tourism sector and contributing to economic diversification. For more information, visit www.visitqatar.com .

GCC Celebrities Join Visit Qatar’s Campaign to Showcase Family-Friendly Attractions and Events Doha, Qatar – October 2024 Visit Qatar  has launched its new campaign titled قطر، على هواك  (“Qatar, Based on Your Heart’s Desire”) to inspire travelers from across the GCC to experience Qatar’s unique winter offerings. Building on a record-breaking tourism season, this campaign positions Qatar as a leading family-friendly winter escape, featuring a variety of must-visit attractions and events catering to all interests and ages. The campaign stars Saudi actor Yousef Al Jarrah  and Bahraini artist Ahmad Sharif , with cameo appearances by Qatari Chef Noof Al Marri  and inspirational speaker Ghanim Al Muftah . Together, they take viewers on an engaging journey showcasing Qatar’s blend of culture, entertainment, and hospitality, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, and groups of friends. Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi , CEO of Visit Qatar, commented: “Qatar’s unique winter atmosphere and diverse entertainment options make it the perfect destination for both short and long getaways. Our aim is to create unforgettable moments for everyone who visits. As winter approaches, we invite our GCC neighbors to explore Qatar and experience a memorable journey catered to their interests.” Something for Everyone Qatar’s attractions cater to diverse interests, from thrilling adventures at Quest Indoor Theme Park , home to the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster, to eco-friendly luxury at Our Habitas Ras Abrouq . Cultural enthusiasts can explore the Katara Amphitheatre  with its unique blend of Greek and Islamic architecture, while shopping enthusiasts can indulge at West Walk , Galeries Lafayette Doha , and 21 High Street . For those seeking relaxation, Qatar offers a range of beaches from family-friendly Katara Beach  to the serene shores of Fuwairit  and Al Khor , known for their natural beauty and bioluminescent waters. Visa-Free Access and Easy Connectivity Qatar offers visa-free travel to visitors from 102 countries, with easy accessibility by land, air, and sea. Located just a short flight away for GCC residents, visitors can enjoy Qatar’s winter sun, luxurious resorts, and cultural experiences, all within close proximity to Doha’s city center. After welcoming a record four million visitors in 2023 , Qatar’s tourism continues to grow, with a 24% increase in visitor numbers by October 2024 compared to the same period last year. For more information on travel packages and event calendars, visit www.visitqatar.com .

Seoul, South Korea – October 2023 Qatari football star Akram Afif  was celebrated as the AFC Player of the Year  at the prestigious AFC Annual Awards Seoul 2023 , held at the Grand Peace Palace of Kyung Hee University. The 27-year-old forward made history, becoming the first Qatari to win the award twice, a testament to his exceptional 2023/24 season performance. Afif, who previously won the accolade in 2019, joins an elite group of players to have won the title more than once, alongside Japan’s Hidetoshi Nakata (1997, 1998) and Uzbekistan’s Server Djeparov (2008, 2011). Representing Al Sadd SC , he continues the club’s legacy with previous Qatari winners Khalfan Ibrahim  (2006) and Abdelkarim Hassan  (2018) also hailing from Al Sadd. In 2023, Afif was instrumental in helping Qatar retain the AFC Asian Cup title on home soil, scoring eight goals  and assisting three times, becoming the first player in the tournament’s history to score a hat-trick in the Final. His standout season earned him the Most Valuable Player  and Yili Top Scorer  awards, a rare double accomplishment in the same edition of the tournament. On the road to Qatar’s third round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers , Afif recorded two goals and five assists, keeping the team on track for a potential second FIFA World Cup appearance. At the club level, he played a pivotal role in Al Sadd SC’s  record 17th Qatar Stars League title and won the Amir Cup , completing a memorable domestic double. Since joining Al Sadd in 2018, after stints with Belgium’s Eupen, Spain’s Villarreal, and Sporting Gijon, Afif has consistently raised the bar in Qatari football. He clinched the Qatar Stars League Best Player  award for a fourth time, leading Al Sadd with 26 goals and 11 assists  in just 22 games, underscoring his place as a top-tier talent in both Qatari and Asian football.