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Indian playback legend Shreya Ghoshal is set to perform in Doha as part of her ‘All Hearts Tour’ concert on Thursday, October 17. To be held at the Qatar National Convention Centre, the gates open at 7:30pm for the show which starts at 9pm. Ghoshal's captivating vocals first captivated audiences in the film "Devdas." Her mesmerising performance not only catapulted her to stardom but also earned her the prestigious National Film Award and the RD Burman Award for Best New Music Talent. She is the first Indian artiste named as the Equal Global Ambassador for audio streaming portal Spotify. Sharing her excitement about the upcoming concert, Ghoshal says, "Performing in Doha is always a magical experience. I've been eager to return and reconnect with my Qatari fans, and I'm deeply grateful for this opportunity." Tickets for the show, priced between QR175 and QR1,500, are available on platinumlist.net , Tazacker and Qtickets. The concert is brought by Qatar Calendar and Baladna, and is a collaborative effort of CoCreate, Midas Events, and Gloire. The organisers echo Ghoshal's enthusiasm, promising a truly exceptional evening. "Get ready for a musical journey unlike any other," declares Shyam Chhabria, Managing Director at CoCreate. Deepak Pawar, Managing Director at Midas Events emphasises the evolving live music scene in Doha, stating, "The live music scene in Doha has flourished in recent years. This concert presents a fantastic opportunity for Shreya's fans to experience a vibrant atmosphere and create lasting memories”.Adding to the anticipation, Ahmad Ghaddar from Gloire says, "We are thrilled to host Shreya Ghoshal, a true musical powerhouse whose voice has captivated audiences worldwide.”

Doha Metro & Lusail Tram announced an offer of five complimentary journeys when registering a Travel Card, starting September 15, 2024 until December 15, 2024.  To be eligible for the offer, travelers need to “register their Travel Card between September 15, 2024, and December 15, 2024, and they will automatically receive the five complimentary journeys at the end of the campaign,” as announced on the Doha Metro & Lusail Tram website. The five complimentary journeys will be valid for three months after activation.  To benefit from the complimentary journeys, the registered Travel Card needs to be activated by tapping into the Doha Metro gate or Lusail Tram validator within one month after the promotion. How to Register For Current Users: - Log in via the website or Qatar Rail app. - Go to "Manage Travel Card", click "Add Card", then enter the last 11 digits of your Travel Card number. For New Users: -  Register for an account via the website or the Qatar Rail app. - Follow the same instructions as current users to add your Travel Card. Notably, the offer is valid for one Travel Card per registered email and only for newly registered top-up Travel Cards. It applies to Standard and Goldclub Travel Cards, while it does not apply to Travel Cards with other products (monthly, weekly, or promotional products). The five complimentary journeys are nonrefundable.

The FIA World Endurance Championship published its calendar for 2025  here  revealing Lusail International Circuit (LIC) as host to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) official prologue and season opener in 2025. The Qatar 1812Km race, named in honor of Qatar's National Day, is scheduled for February 28, 2025, kicking off an eight-round global championship.  With a minimum of 14 manufacturers expected to compete, the 2025 season promises intense competition from the start. Following Qatar, the WEC will travel to Imola, Spa-Francorchamps, Le Mans, São Paulo, Austin, Fuji, and conclude in Bahrain. This event solidifies LIC's position as a premier motorsports hub on the international stage, setting the tone for a thrilling season that spans four continents. Following the tremendous success of the 2024 and inaugural edition in March 2024, LIC is set to welcome WEC again in 2025. The Qatar Airways Qatar 1812 KM, proved to be an exhilarating spectacle; the ten-hour endurance race, starting in daylight and finishing under LIC's iconic floodlights, saw Porsche Penske Motorsport emerge victorious. The event featured intense competition across all classes, with Manthey PureRxcing claiming the first-ever LMGT3 class victory. The race weekend also offered spectators a range of entertainment, including an air show, cultural activities, and a vibrant Fan Zone. Amro Al Hamad, Executive Director of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and CEO of LIC, stated: "LIC has firmly established itself as a premier destination for global motorsports events.  We're excited to maintain this momentum by hosting the 2025 WEC season opener. Our track record of successfully organizing international races like WEC, MotoGP, and Formula 1 reflects our commitment to making world-class motorsports accessible to our community and fans worldwide. We're dedicated to delivering an exceptional race experience and eagerly anticipate welcoming back teams, drivers, and enthusiasts to enjoy the unique ambiance and top notch facilities at LIC." LIC is capable of hosting diverse and high-caliber racing events preserving its status as a premier motorsports destination. For more information and to stay updated with its news, follow LIC on social media and the official website:  https://www.lcsc.qa/

Katara Cultural Village has completed preparations to launch the 8th edition of the Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition, S’hail 2024, on Tuesday. The five-day event will see participation from 19 countries, with 166 companies showcasing the latest hunting weapons, falconry gear, camping supplies, and outdoor hunting equipment. Some exhibitors, especially from China and Europe, will be attending for the first time. According to Abdulaziz al-Sayed, director of S'hail 2024, this year’s exhibition is set to be the most outstanding yet, offering new opportunities, impressive displays, and the latest innovations in hunting rifles, falconry tools, and outdoor equipment. In addition to various competitions, cultural and artistic events will celebrate hunting and falconry traditions. The S’hail Falcon Auction remains a major attraction, showcasing rare and premium falcons, and drawing keen interest from enthusiasts. Participation in the auction is available through an e-application. Al-Sayed emphasized that this year's organizing committee has carefully selected top local, Arab, and international companies specializing in hunting weapons, outdoor trips, and related supplies to offer diverse, high-quality products at competitive prices. There will also be scientific seminars, lectures, and poetry evenings. A dedicated tent has been set up in the southern section of Katara for the smooth delivery of hunting weapons and ammunition. Workshops and craft stalls will feature handmade hunting and falconry tools. Additionally, the exhibition will see significant participation from both national and international companies presenting the latest in vehicle accessories, four-wheel drive equipment, and luxury caravans designed for outdoor trips and hunting excursions. Veterinary clinics and pharmacies for falcons and birds will also be present, providing medical services, examinations, and bird care advice, along with medications and treatments. S’hail 2024 is supported by a number of national sponsors, with the Social and Sports Activities Support Fund, Daam, serving as the strategic partner. Event Details: Location: Katara Cultural Village Date: 10 September 2024 - 14 September 2024 Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 pm Ticket Purchase:Online Price:- It's free! https://s-hail.qa/

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs in Qatar (Awqaf) announced that the judicial police inspectors of the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department seized and fined three Umrah offices for offering Umrah services without obtaining a license to operate, and referred them to the legal authorities in the country to take the necessary legal measures against them. The Ministry stressed that all offices wishing to offer Umrah services must obtain a license to organize Umrah trips from the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department, in accordance with the rules and regulations in force in this regard. The Ministry also pointed out that the judicial police inspectors of the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department periodically conduct inspection campaigns on Umrah offices to ensure that they have obtained a business license and adhere to the rules and regulations in place, and to seize violating offices and refer them to the legal authorities in the country. It is worth noting that the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, represented by the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department, pays great attention to organizing the procedures for licensing Umrah offices, to ensure the provision of distinguished services and achieve the highest levels of quality and safety for pilgrims. #Amazing_Qatar #Amazing_Qatar_news #Amazing_Qatar_team #qatar2024 #qatarinstagram #dohaqatar #seeqatar #Doha #Qatar #umrah

Huawei Consumer Business Group, together with Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar, successfully hosted an exclusive HUAWEI XMAGE event that brought together some of Qatar’s most celebrated photographers to delve into the future of photography. Held at the Huawei Exhibition Hall in UDC Tower, the event featured an engaging panel discussion “Future of Photography” lead by Maryam Wahid, Tasweer, Head of Program and Outreach and Cheng Lei, HUAWEI CBG CMO for Middle East and Africa, in addition to a display of stunning works by seven prominent homegrown photographers.   Qatar’s Photography Community XMAGE in Qatar showcased the works of seven local photographers: Abdulatif Jaidah, Khaled Eldoues, Mohammed Albaker, Moamon Abdullah, Maryam Al-Hail, Abdulla Al Mushaifri, and Azzam Almannai. Four of these photographers participated in a panel discussion, they provided valuable insights into how mobile photography is revolutionizing the art form, breaking down barriers between professional and amateur photographers, and fostering new avenues for creative expression through Huawei XMAGE technology.   Azzam Al Mannai a renowed Qatari wildlife and underwater photographer. . His work was featured in several exhibitions and publications such as UNESCO, National Geographic and many more. Abdullah Al Mushaifri is an Omani photographer who transitioned from filmmaking to photography in 2012, discovering a deep passion for capturing the richness of diverse cultures. He quickly gained recognition across the Arab region for his compelling work in architecture, portraits, and travel photography. Abdullah's talent has earned him international acclaim, with numerous awards spanning 54 countries. Khalid Eldoues is a seasoned photographer and certified photography instructor. He has covered numerous local and international events, continually seeking new ways to express his creativity through the lens. Abdullatif Jaidah is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in photography, passionate about technology and capturing moments, he leverages photography to bridge communication barriers and document his diverse range of hobbies. Maryam Al-Hail, is a Northwestern University alumna with a Bachelor of Science in Communications. Back in 2019, she began to explore her passion for the lens, whether analog, mobile, or digital – Maryam values the exploration of videography and photography as a form of storytelling. Mo'men Ghanim is an experienced digital content creator, film director, and dedicated mentor, shaping the art of visual storytelling for over eight years. Mo’men’s heart beats for projects that celebrate the essence of culture and history. Strengthening Cultural Ties with Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar Alongside Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar under Qatar Museums, this event highlighted the synergy between cutting-edge technology and homegrown talent. The event was a significant step in supporting Qatar’s Vision 2030, which aims to nurture a vibrant cultural landscape by integrating innovation and artistic expression.   Tasweer spokespersons to be inserted here. Maryam Al Misnad, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship for Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar, said, “We are honoured to join hands once more with Huawei to nurture the ever-growing local talent, and to develop our creative industry. At Tasweer, we believe that photography as an art form is being shaped by innovation in the smartphone industry more than ever before. We are grateful for Huawei’s support through XMAGE Technology in providing new creative tools for our artists to explore. We look forward to seeing the outcome of their creativity and we hope their work inspires more emerging photographers.”   Celebrating Huawei XMAGE Technology and XMAGE Awards 2024 Attendees experienced live demonstrations of Huawei XMAGE photography with HUAWEI Pura 70 Ultra, which has been praised for its ability to capture high-quality images that bridge the gap between professional and mobile photography. The technology’s impact was clearly reflected in the exhibited works, illustrating the potential for mobile devices to inspire and empower the next generation of photographers. The event also marked the submission of the homegrown photographers' projects to HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2024. This prestigious annual competition celebrates excellence in smartphone photography and encourages participants to push the boundaries of creativity. Since its inception in 2017, the XMAGE Awards have attracted nearly 4 million entries from over 170 countries and regions, making it a truly global platform for showcasing innovative photography. Moving Forward The event’s success marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s photography scene, with Huawei and Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar playing crucial roles in shaping the future of the art form. The dialogue and insights shared during the panel discussion will continue to influence the trajectory of mobile photography in the region, Huawei and Tasweer look forward to future initiatives that will further elevate and support Qatar’s creative community.

Future Motors, a division of Business Trading Company (BTC) and Al Rabban Holding which is owned by H.E. Mr. Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Al Rabban and H.E. Mr. Nasser Al Rabban, takes pride in launching brand BAIC for automotive enthusiasts in Qatar. With this launch, the company is presenting BAIC’s famous models – BJ80, BJ60, BJ40C, X7, X55 II, and U5 plus to the citizens and residents of Qatar. Established in 1958, Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co., Ltd. (BAIC) has a rich heritage of innovation and evolution within the automotive sector and is ranked 162nd in the Fortune 500. BAIC is one of the largest Government-owned automobile groups in China covering R&D and manufacturing of vehicles, parts, automobile service trade, comprehensive travel services, finance, and investment, etc. Since its inception, BAIC has played a key role in China's automotive industry, adapting to global trends, and embracing advanced technologies with a focus on quality and excellence, BAIC has achieved strategic milestones, formed impactful international partnerships, and expanded its product range to include a diverse array of vehicles, from conventional to electric. BAIC Group has strategic partnership with leading global brands. In 1983, the company launched a joint venture with American Motors Corporation (the parent company of the JEEP brand) and established the first vehicle manufacturing joint venture in China's automotive industry, Beijing Jeep Corporation. It also established the first vehicle manufacturing joint venture with Hyundai Korea — Beijing Hyundai Auto Co., Ltd. and established Beijing Benz Automotive Co., Ltd. with Mercedes-Benz jointly. BAIC Group now focuses on three primary businesses of vehicles, parts, and service trade, boasts its private cars: ARCFOX, BEIJING, and BAIC ORV; independent commercial vehicles: BAIC Foton, BAIC Changhe; joint venture brands: Beijing Benz, Fujian Benz, Beijing Hyundai Motor, and Foton Daimler. BAIC products are sold in 110 countries and regions worldwide with cumulative sales exceeding 31 million units. At the launch, Mr. Nasser Al Rabban, Owner and CEO of Future Motors, stated, “Launching the brand BAIC in Qatar complements Future Motor’s vision to play a leading role in the ongoing development of mobility in Qatar and represents a significant step forward in our commitment to bringing innovative, high-quality automotive solutions. We believe in the strong heritage of BAIC as it matches the culture of Qatar, and its vehicles are suitable for Qatar’s unique terrain.” Mr. Zaher Hayji, General Manager, Future Motors, highlighted, “We are excited to launch BAIC in Qatar, one of the earliest Chinese brands that entered the GCC region. It has a rich Chinese heritage and its upscale and luxurious cars are used by dignitaries and VIPs in the People's Republic of China. Its vehicles like the BJ80 are a true classic 4x4 SUV with all the modern features. The BJ60 is a large 7-seater family SUV with advanced off-roading capabilities, providing outstanding value to our customers. Compared to similar brands, BAIC delivers similar, if not superior, features and reliability, making it an ideal choice for discerning city and off-roading drivers in the region." All BAIC models launched in Qatar come with a 5-year or 150,000 KM warranty. BJ80 is a mid-size four-wheel-drive luxury SUV that comes with a classic 4x4 design and solid build quality. The vehicle is currently being marketed with a price starting from QR 225,000. BJ60 the largest and most luxurious SUV from BAIC for everyone – perfectly combines elegant design, innovative technologies, and robust off-road performance. Its price starts from QR 139,000. An authentic off-road oriented SUV in design and execution, the BAIC BJ40 with a removable car top is a rugged and versatile off-road SUV designed to conquer challenging terrains with ease and style. It is also available in a two-door version with pricing starting from QR 122,000. The X7 is a cross-over mid-size premium SUV offering a blend of luxury, space, and cutting-edge technology perfectly suited for a mid-size family. Designed in Italy, it is C-NCAP 5-star rated SUV with the latest turbo technology. It is available at a starting price of QR 112,000. X55 II SUV is a symphony of style, strength, and sophistication. It is a sleek and sporty SUV packed with modern features, C-NCAP 5-star rating perfect for young adventurers and urban explorers with pricing starting from QR 77,000. The U5 plus sedan is a new generation car with 1.5L CVT transmission. It is a fully loaded car priced at QR 52,000. In an effort to make car financing easier, Future Motors has joined forces with a leading financial institution, Al Jazeera Finance (AJF), Tamweel to redefine the vehicle financing journey for its customers. This strategic alliance aims to provide customers with unparalleled access to BAIC vehicles through excellent financing schemes and zero down-payment options, further solidifying Future Motors commitment to a customer-centric business approach. This partnership agreement was signed at the official launch of the BAIC showroom in the presence of the management from Future Motors and Al Jazeera Finance. Under this financing agreement, Al Jazeera Finance will provide an easy and quick loan approval process to Future Motors customers. The BAIC showroom is located at Barwa Commercial Avenue, before Ansar Gallery. The location is easily accessible on leading maps. More information on BAIC models can be found on www.baicqa.com

For the fifth consecutive year, the Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ represented by the Roads Projects Department, won 10 International Safety Awards from the British Safety Council for several projects of the Local Areas Infrastructure Programme during 2024. The winning projects include the Roads and Infrastructure project in Umm Slal Ali, Umm Ebairiya Village, South Umm El Amad and North Bu Fessela (Package 1), Al Wajba East Project (Package 3), Al Kheesa North and East (Package 2), Umm Slal Mohammed (Package 1), Road Grading Project in West of Umm Slal Mohammed (Package 1), Abu Samra Border Crossing Project, the Construction of Remaining Works in Doha Industrial Area, and the Road Improvement Works in Western Areas. The efforts of the Roads Projects Department’s Health, Safety and Workers' Welfare team has also contributed to winning the International Safety Award with Merit. On this occasion, Eng. Saoud Al-Tamimi, Roads Projects Department Manager at Ashghal, stated: “The department's projects winning 10 International Health and Safety Awards for the fifth consecutive year, after winning eight awards in 2023, nine awards in 2022, four awards in 2021 and three in 2020, is the best evidence of the Authority's commitment to continuous progress and its keenness to maintain the health and lives of workers as a priority. He added that safety is a fundamental pillar of the project implementation strategy and a culture that the Authority aims to promote and adhere to.” The International Safety Awards, now in its 66th year, honours the efforts of organisations and institutions around the world that have succeeded in preventing work-related injuries and illnesses, in addition to organisations committed to well-being and mental health in the workplace. The awards were presented at a ceremony held last June in London, with a distinguished presence of many institutions and participants from around the world. The event was attended by Eng. Abdulaziz Al Muhannadi, Project Engineer in the Roads Projects Department, representing Ashghal, who said: “During 2023, the number of workers in the various Roads Projects Department projects reached approximately 32,000 workers, and the department achieved a worksite injury and accident rate of 0.07% during 95 million man-hours. These figures reflect the magnitude of the department’s the efforts and its commitment to providing workers with the highest standards of health, safety and social welfare at work sites.” Roads Projects Department’s Health, Safety and Workers' Welfare Team – International Safety Award with Merit The Health, Safety and Workers' Welfare Team won the International Safety Award with Merit for their tireless efforts and commitment to implementing an effective occupational health and safety management system which consists of key elements, including the commitment of all Authority officials to health and safety standards, developing an effective approach to identifying and managing risks proactively, organising a training programme to enhance competencies and transfer expertise, and involving all employees at all levels in everything related to occupational health and safety, in addition to setting health and safety objectives and monitoring achievements with the aim of continuous improvement, and appointing subcontractors with periodic monitoring of their performance by management. Umm Slal Mohammed Roads and Infrastructure Project (Package 1) – International Safety Award with Distinction and Best in the Country Award The project has achieved 7.5 million man-hours without injury or accidents since its commencement in December 2020. The project employs around 1,114 workers from the main contractor HBK Contracting Company, in addition to its subcontractors. The project includes a 36 km roads network, and the main works include the construction of a 54 km surface and groundwater drainage network and a 15.8 km TSE network to serve future green areas, as well as the construction of a 10 km potable water network. Works also include installation of street lighting, traffic signals, and directional signs, and provision of 4,310 parking spaces. Umm Slal Ali, Umm Ebairiya Village, South Umm Al Amad and North Bu Fessela Project (Package 1) – International Safety Award with Distinction The project commenced in May 2021 by Metito Company and employs 303 workers. It has achieved about 3.5 million man-hours without accidents since its commencement. The project will provide integrated road and infrastructure networks for the area. Abu Samra Border Crossing Project – International Safety Award with Distinction Tadmur Contracting Company began implementing the project in August 2021 and employs 478 workers. The project achieved 8 million man-hours without accidents. It involves the development and doubling of the capacity of the immigration buildings to serve arrivals and departures, each of which has been increased from 9 vehicles to 24 vehicles, in addition to 48 tourist lanes with a capacity of 12,000 cars entering and 12,000 cars exiting the State of Qatar. This is in addition to the development of 4.5 km-long roads for the crossing, and infrastructure development of the area. Construction of Remaining Works in the Doha Industrial Area – International Safety Award with Distinction The project commenced in June 2023 by GEC Contracting Services and Trading and has achieved 578,480 man-hours to date without accidents, wherein 218 workers are employed. The project will enhance the area’s vital infrastructure services. Road Improvement Works in Western Areas– International Safety Award with Distinction The project was started by ATTI-KAT in December 2022 and has achieved 801,060 man-hours without accidents. Employing 314 workers, the project included the construction of temporary roads, protection of existing facilities, and the provision of future service channels, street lighting and traffic signals. Al Kheesa North and East Roads and Infrastructure Project (Package 2) – International Safety Award with Distinction China Railway Company began implementing the project in August 2021. The project employs 1,581 workers and has achieved 1.6 million man-hours without accidents since its commencement. The project aims to provide an internal streets network with a length of about 53 km and provide traffic safety elements and advanced street lighting systems, in addition to pedestrian and bicycle paths with a length of 106 km and over 7,000 parking spaces. It also includes the development of the area’s infrastructure services. Al Wajba East Roads and Infrastructure Project (Package 3) – International Safety Award with Merit Project works commenced in February 2021 by Galfar Almisnad Engineering and Contracting Company and employs 341 workers. The project achieved a record 3,863,646 million man-hours without accidents. It provides an integrated network of roads, in addition to pedestrian and bicycle paths, dedicated parking spaces and afforestation works. It will also provide drainage, surface, groundwater, treated wastewater networks and potable water lines. Road Grading Project in West of Umm Slal Mohammed (Package 1) - International Safety Award with Merit The project is being implemented by Marbu Contracting Company since February 2023. It has achieved 928,707 man-hours without accidents and employs 422 workers.

The employer has an obligation to ensure that visa procedures of expatriates are completed within 30 days of their entry to Qatar. Ministry of Interior (MOI) in a social media post reminded the employer and the expatriate of their responsibility in completing the residence or visit permit procedures. Failing which could expose them to penalties from the judiciary, including a fine that may reach up to QR 10,000. "Based on the provisions of Article (10) of Law No. 21 of 2015 regulating the entry, exit, and residence of expatriates (Paragraph 1), the employer must facilitate the expatriate to contact the competent authorities within 30 days from the date of entry into the country to complete the procedures for obtaining a residence or visit permit," stated the MOI. It further added that the expatriate is not allowed to refuse to complete these procedures. MOI further stated it is acceptable to reconcile, as is stipulated in Article (42), with the accused in this violation by paying an amount of QR10 for each day of delay, with a maximum of QR6,000, in accordance with the reconcilation amount specified by the law.

Ministry of Interior (MoI) officials arrested four individuals and referred them to the Public Prosecution for inciting hatred and spreading discord among members of the community. MOI announced this in a statement adding that this is in reference to what has been circulated on a social media platform. The Ministry of Interior affirmed that it will not tolerate and will take legal action against anyone who is proven to be involved in inciting sedition, hatred, racism, or undermining the fabric of society, threatening its security and stability. The Ministry also warned against using social media platforms in ways that violate the law, stressing the importance of not insulting any component of society and its unity, based on the principle that the bonds of Qatari society and its stability are a responsibility for everyone.

Doha has been ranked as the fourth most liveable city in the entire MENA region, according to the Global Liveability Index 2024 released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the research and analysis division of The Economist Group, recently. The assessment evaluates 173 cities across the world on 30 indicators divided into five categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure, with the aim of showing how comfortable these cities are to live in. Doha offers a safe place to live for everyone, boasting one of the lowest crime rates in the world. The city is constantly evolving, with a modern metro system, stunning architecture, and a focus on innovation. Its high standard of living, modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and educational opportunities also make it one of the top-ranked cities in the world for anyone to settle in. This year, Vienna once again received perfect scores of 100 for four of the five categories (98.4 overall) of the Global Liveability Index, with only its score for culture and environment being a less-perfect 93.5, owing to a lack of major sporting events, the report noted. Vienna was followed by Copenhagen with a score of 98 and Zurich with 97.1. Syria’s Damascus (30.7) is still the least liveable of the 173 cities in the survey, with Tripoli (40.1) one place above it. Abu Dhabi (81.7) topped the MENA region and ranked 76th globally in the report, while Dubai followed closely behind with a score of 80.8, placing 78th in the world. Kuwait City secured the third position in the region with a score of 74.6 and a global ranking of 93. Doha (73.4) and Bahrain’s Mananma (72.2) completed the top-five positions for the region, ranking 106th and 93rd globally, respectively. The GCC region has been making significant investments in social infrastructure and economic diversification. The World Bank has forecasted the region’s economic growth to strengthen to 2.8 percent in 2024 and 4.7 percent in 2025. According to the Global Liveability Index, Western Europe remains the most liveable region, excelling in four key categories, while North America follows closely behind, leading in the education category.

Hamad Port, Doha Port, and Ruwais Port handled 706,983 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) containers in the first half (H1/January to June) of 2024 registering a growth of 12 percent compared to the same period last year, supported by 24 percent rise in transshipment at Hamad Port. The ports also recorded a rise of 39 percent in RORO units, and a 22 percent rise in livestock in H1, Mwani Qatar posted on its X platform. During the first six months of this year the three ports received 1,323 vessels. Meanwhile, the general and bulk cargo shipments stood at 931,465 tonnes and the ports handled 55,944 RORO units, 358,201 heads of livestock and 171,158 tonnes of building materials in the review period. The container terminals have been designed to address the increasing trade volume, enhancing ease of doing business as well as supporting the achievement of economic diversification, which is one of the most important goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. The number of ships calling on Qatar’s three ports stood at 647 in the first quarter of this year, while the ports received 367,350 tonnes of general and bulk cargo shipments, 19,200 units of RORO vehicles, 221,125 heads of livestock and 142,886 tonnes of building materials in the review period. Hamad, Ruwais and Doha ports achieved the second-highest monthly container handling rate in June 2024 with over 144,000 twenty-foot equivalent units, marking a 51 percent increase over the same period last year. This growth was accompanied by a rise in handling volumes of general and bulk cargo, livestock, RORO and vessels by 163 percent, 149 percent, 108 percent and 23 percent respectively. The containers handled through the three ports stood at 144,884 tonnes in June 2024. The ports received 242 vessels while the general and bulk cargoes, RORO, livestock and building materials handled during the same period accounted for 56,934 tonnes, 15,680 units, 59,129 heads and 22,504 tonnes respectively. Meanwhile, QTerminals, a terminal operating company of Hamad Port stated on its X platform recently, “We achieved the second highest month with 144,749 TEUs in June 2024. We also hit a new milestone with 248,564 tonnes and 15,644 units, marking it the highest RORO units and tonnes handled at the port ever.” Qatar’s main gateway to world trade, Hamad Port is classified as one of the largest ports in the Middle East with a capacity of 7.5 million standard containers annually and is one of the most important long-term projects that embody Qatar National Vision 2030, which is a tributary to social, economic, environmental and human development in Qatar.