Closing weekend featured concerts, masterclass with celebrity makeup artist, Lunar New Year celebrations and final raffle draw at Mall of Qatar The fourth edition of Shop Qatar concluded on 31 January following three weeks of exciting family entertainment and fashion forward events along with up to 70% discounts offered at 12 retail partners that included malls, The Pearl-Qatar and Galleries Lafayette. Following the festival’s annual tradition of celebrating different cultures, the final week featured colourful festivities that included calligraphy and art activities, a traditional cultural dragon parade and a live performance by Chinese drummers. American celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic made his debut in Qatar to participate in Shop Qatar. He conducted a 5-hour masterclass on 31 January in front of a packed audience at Msheireb Downtown. Musical performances by global artists are also a popular hallmark of Shop Qatar. This year, the Pakistani band Junoon enthralled audiences at QNCC on 30 January, while on 31 January, And solo musicians entertained shoppers in Hyatt Plaza. The third and final raffle draw took place on Friday, 31 January at Mall of Qatar, awarding two cars and QAR 330,000 in cash to 14 lucky entrants. Shoppers spending at least QAR 200 at participating retailers or restaurants were eligible to participate in the three weekly draws that had combined value of more than QAR 2 million. After the draw, celebrity singer Cheb Khalid entertained captivated audiences at Mall of Qatar. A complete list of the winning vouchers from the 31 January draw: Throughout the festival, families visiting and residing in Qatar enjoyed a host of activities including mall activations, children’s shows and concerts as well as arts and crafts for the little ones. The Disney in Concert show, staged at QNCC and featuring orchestral scores performed live by Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, was one of the most popular events, with several of the five performances selling out. Shop Qatar’s signature fashion shows brought together more than 20 local, regional and international designers who showcased their latest couture and pret collections in a series of catwalk shows at Al Hazm, while famous makeup artists and influencers conducted a number of beauty masterclasses for ladies.

Doha, Qatar, 2 February 2020: With the A-Class Sedan, Mercedes-Benz introduces the seventh model in its range of compact cars along with the C, E and S-Class. The addition of the A-Class Sedan ensures that Mercedes-Benz has more premium saloon competence than most other manufacturers. Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, is proud to introduce this car for the first time in Qatar, and is available now at Mercedes-Benz showroom on Salwa Road. Exterior design: Superior sportiness and modernity With its puristic design emphasising surfaces, the A-Class Sedan is hot and cool at the same time, and thereby is a seamless fit with the design idiom of Sensual Purity. This includes the clear formal shapes emphasising surface areas with reduced lines and precise gaps. The new A-Class Sedan has the proportions of a dynamic and compact saloon car with short front and rear overhangs. The greenhouse which sits far back, and the compact rear end lend the vehicle a formal dynamic boost. Thanks to the 16 to 19-inch wheels and the pronounced wheel arches, the A-Class Sedan has a sporty stance on the road. The front end design looks very progressive. Contributing to this impression are the low, elongated bonnet, the slimline headlamps with chrome element, the torch-like daytime driving lights - plus the single-louvre diamond radiator grille with chrome pins (optional), and the central star. The muscular and sensual vehicle shoulder with a precise character line running below it emphasises the perfectly contoured side volume. The side mirrors sit on the beltline. The two-part tail lamps underscore the clear rear end that emphasises width. The rear reflectors were relocated to the modular two-part rear bumper. Depending on the selected equipment, this rear bumper is available with a black diffuser or with chrome trim strip and chrome tailpipe tips. Customers can choose from the design details of the individual equipment lines: Progressive, Style, and AMG Line. Interior design: Revolution from within The interior of the new A-Class Sedan is completely redefined with its modern, avant-garde look. Mercedes-Benz has taken a completely new approach, revolutionising the compact class from the inside with a new feeling of spaciousness. The unique interior architecture is shaped in particular by the avant-garde design of the dashboard: The Widescreen display (optional) is completely free-standing. The air vents in a sporty turbine look are another highlight. Below this main body is a low-lying section, the so-called wing. The wing appears to float, as there are no connections or shape transitions to the surrounding area. The ambient lighting enhances this effect, accentuating the free-floating impression of the substructure. The cockpit is available in three versions: with one 7-inch and one 10.25-inch (26 cm) display and with two 10.25-inch displays. Colour and trim: fresh colours and unusual trim The interior can be adapted to suit personal tastes in many ways. Depending on the equipment line, different types and colours of trim elements are available for the dashboard. An overview of the trim elements: Style: colour band matching the upholstery in neva grey, indigo blue or black with integrated, contrasting piping in orange, light blue or grey Progressive: carbon-fibre look in black or silverAMG Line: AMG microfibre in black or aluminium with bright longitudinal grain (in conjunction with Artico upholstery)Optional for Progressive/AMG Line: light aluminium with longitudinal grain, light aluminium with line grain, trim in black open-pore lime wood or brown open-pore walnut wood (Progressive only) MBUX Mercedes-Benz User Experience The new A-Class Sedan features the completely new MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User Experience multimedia system, which also ushers in a new era for Mercedes me connectivity at the same time. Its further strengths include, depending on the specification, the high-resolution Widescreen Cockpit with touchscreen operation of the media display, the navigation display with augmented reality technology plus intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition, which is activated with the keyword "Hey Mercedes". A head-up display is also available. The touchscreen is part of the comprehensive MBUX -Mercedes-Benz User Experience touch-control concept – a triad consisting of the touchscreen, touchpad on the centre console (optional) and touch controls on the steering wheel. MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User Experience is a revolution of the user experience in the car. The Mercedes me app collection can be placed as an icon on the screen in a user-friendly way and can be freely sorted on the homepage like all other main applications. In addition, online content such as current filling station prices or the availability of parking spaces in the multi-storey car park are displayed in MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User Experience as an option. Active and Passive Safety The new A-Class Sedan is fitted with some of the highest levels of active safety in its segment, with functions adopted from the S‑Class. It is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations and is equipped with driving assistance systems to support the driver. It comes with expanded Active Brake Assist as standard. Depending on the situation, it can effectively help to mitigate the consequences of rear-end collisions with slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead, and even with crossing pedestrians and cyclists, or prevent them altogether. Active Lane Keeping Assist (likewise standard) is able to warn the driver by means of pulsed vibrations in the steering wheel when the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane at speeds between 60 and 200 km/h. If the vehicle passes over a solid line, it can pull the vehicle back into lane by applying the brakes on one side. In the case of a dotted line, such intervention takes place only when there is a danger of collision with a vehicle in the adjacent lane (including danger from oncoming traffic). PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision. If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also firmly apply the brakes of the stationary vehicle, thus minimising the risk of injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by an impact from the rear. Passive safety: highly stable passenger compartment and modern restraint systems The new A-Class Sedan was developed at the new Technology Centre for Vehicle Safety (TFS). The design of the vehicle structures incorporates findings from research into real accidents. Every single body shell component was developed according to the loads and stresses encountered, with respect to geometry, material thickness, joining technology and material quality (increased proportion of high-strength and ultra-high-strength sheet steel). The centrepiece of the body's safety concept is the highly rigid passenger compartment. Its great rigidity when subjected to accident-induced stress e.g. in frontal, lateral or rear-end collisions and roll-overs is above all due to the greater use of high-strength, ultra-high-strength and press-hardened sheet steel. Drive System The A-Class Sedan has five engines available, two of which combined with 4MATIC all-wheel drive: All A-Class Sedan engines adhere to the Euro 6d TEMP limits and are efficient, powerful and versatile. The engine line-up at launch: A 200 (120 kW/163 hp, 250 Nm); with 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (fuel consumption combined 5.4-5.2 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 124-119 g/km)A 250 (165 kW/224 hp, 350 Nm); with 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (fuel consumption combined 6.3-6.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 143-139g/km) Equipment/technology highlights The new A-Class Sedan has a number of highlights that up until now were not available in this form in the compact car class. The MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system is of course foremost among these, but here is a peak at other technical treats. One of the strengths of MBUX is its intelligent voice control with natural language comprehension, which is activated by the keyword "Hey Mercedes" (or "Hello Mercedes"). The new LINGUATRONIC supports many infotainment functions (e.g. destination input, phone calls, music selection, writing and hearing messages, weather forecast). Easier parking and manoeuvring Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC assists the driver when searching for a parking space and when entering or leaving parallel or end-on parking spaces in both forward and reverse direction. It manoeuvres the vehicle into the selected parking space and back out again. PARKTRONIC gives a visual and acoustic warning of recognised obstacles with the help of six ultrasonic sensors in each bumper. These can be in front of, to the side or behind the vehicle, and are recognised at speeds up to approx. 10 km/h. MULTIBEAM LED headlamps With the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, the control units calculate the ideal lighting configuration within milliseconds. The road ahead is precisely and brightly illuminated.

Mall of Qatar has planned unbeatable live entertainment to conclude Shop Qatar festivities. Doha, Qatar, 28 January 2020: Mall of Qatar, the Nation’s mall, is delighted to announce that Cheb Khaled will perform at 8.00pm on Friday 31st January at the iconic Oasis stage as part of the closing ceremony of “Shop Qatar”. After the performance, fans will also have the chance to Meet & Greet the star and enjoy a huge balloon drop live at the Oasis. Celebrations will kick off at 7pm with the grand finale raffle draw which will reveal the 14 lucky winners of cash prizes and super cars. Exclusively at Mall of Qatar, shoppers have until 5pm on Friday 31st January to enter the draw when spending 200 QAR at any of Mall of Qatar’s stores. “We have promised a packed calendar of world-class events and we look forward to offering our shoppers an exciting and unique finale with a grand concert by the world’s best-known Arab singer "King of Raï": Cheb Khaled!” said Khaled Sam Hosn, Mall of Qatar’s CEO. Mall of Qatar is a partner of “Shop Qatar” since the first festival in 2017. This year, the Nation’s mall has brought to the festival spectacular stage shows and activities to please the whole family. Visit mallofqatar.com.qa to find out more Situated next to the award-winning Al Rayyan FIFA 2022 stadium, the nation’s mall is a jewel in Qatar’s National Vision 2030 with 500 varied retail, dining and café options. Since December 2016, Mall of Qatar captures the imagination of the entire nation with mall-wide entertainment and spectacular shows on a 360-degree custom developed revolving stage. The Mall’s encompassing experience completes with an international edutainment concept, 19-screen Megaplex inclusive of IMAX’s revolutionary laser projection on the region’s largest screen and the 5-star AlRayyan Hotel Doha operated by Curio, a collection by Hilton.

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) in Education City will be hosting a Crossing Boundaries lecture and series of workshops on "Converging VR, AR and 3D Printing: Art as a Vehicle for Driving Technology" between February 3 and 5. Focusing on virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), 3D printing and software development, South Africa-based Eden Labs develops immersive experiences with artists to push the limits of emerging technologies. In the lecture, creative technologist Rick Treweek and art director Gareth Steel from Eden Labs will talk about how mixed reality technology and other digital media can be used to tell captivating and interactive stories. The lecture will take place on Monday, February 3 at 12:30pm at VCUarts Qatar's Atrium. All are welcome to attend. Participants at the workshop for the general public on Monday, February 3, from 6 to 9pm at the Atrium at VCUarts Qatar will learn about basic content creation and multimedia skills for VR creation tools, 360-degree photography and videography, and 3D scanning and photogrammetry. They will also be given an overview of the possibilities of 3D printing and mixed reality. The participants at the workshops for Education City students, faculty and alumni, on Tuesday, February 4, from 5pm to 8pm at the Atrium at VCUarts Qatar will learn how to translate existing media into augmented reality or virtual reality content with Treweek. Film-makers and performers who are interested in 360-degree cinematography and videography techniques will be given advice by Steele on their projects. With over 15 years of experience in digital media, Treweek’s practice centers around creating worlds within art, games, and new formats of digital media. Steele designs and conceptualizes for virtual and augmented reality, and specializes in 360-degree photography and videography.

Shopping malls, The Pearl-Qatar and Galleries Lafayette host the final leg of events and festivities besides unbeatable shopping discounts and prizes Promising three weeks of nonstop entertainment and colourful fashion events, the fourth edition of Shop Qatar is now in its third and final week, with a colourful schedule of events taking place in 12 malls and shopping areas spread across the country. Special Chinese New Year celebrations are part of this year’s program with numerous family entertainment activities being staged at all participating malls. These include calligraphy and art classes as well as cultural dragon parades and live performances by Chinese drummers. A host of designers and brands continue to showcase their latest bridal, couture and prêt-à-porter collections in fashion shows at Al Hazm, including an exclusive show by renowned Chinese designer Lan Yu on 29 January. Famous American makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is also coming to Qatar for the first time to conduct a 5-hour masterclass on 31 January. The final week’s musical performances include a concert on 30 January by renowned Pakistani band Junoon who are reuniting after 17 years for a memorable concert in Doha. A Latin band will perform live in City Centre on 31 January while solo musicians will entertain audiences in Hyatt Plaza on the same day. A local celebrity singer will also perform live at Mall of Qatar on 31 January, following the final raffle draw ceremony. Last chance to win: Visitors and residents have one more chance to win by shopping or dining at any of the festival’s 12 retail partners. For every QAR 200 spent at any participating retailer or restaurant, shoppers can enter a weekly raffle draw for a chance to win 12 cash prizes worth QAR 330,000, or two cars including a Mini Cooper Hatchback and a BMW 730 Li.

The three fashion shows at Al Hazm included bridal and couture dresses, prêt-à-porter as well as men’s clothing by 20 celebrated local and international designers, while a kids’ fashion show took place at Al Mirqab Mall Caption for: Designed by the world – Thursday, 23 January, Al Hazm Fashion lovers lined up at Al Hazm on Thursday, 23 January to see the latest creations by top regional designers Ahmed Talfit, Laith Maalouf, Naja Saade, Amgad Al Adab, Bariş, and Toufic Al Hasan as well as Qatar’s own Fahad AlObaidly and Saeed Malas. While Talfit’s collection was inspired from geometrical designs, Maalouf presented a line based on jungle safari. Saade showed selections from his couture bridal collections ‘Spirit of the Time’ and ‘Rebirth’ along with Al Adab’s latest bridal collection. Al Hasan showcased his winter collection called ‘Svelte’. Bariş presented their latest designs in men’s clothing while Qatar’s homegrown talent Fahad AlObaidly showed his signature FAO collection and Malas wowed the audiences with his designs blending Arab heritage with modern design. Caption for: Nicolas Jebran Show – Friday, 24 January, Al Hazm Lebanese designer Nicolas Jebran presented his latest collection at Al Hazm on Friday, 24 January, at his first solo show in Qatar. A large number of fashion enthusiasts and the designer’s fans attended the show and lauded the collection. Jebran is known for crafting outfits that tell a complete story. Drawing inspiration from his surroundings, his bold designs have won him an international following from celebrities such as Madonna, Celine Dion, Cardi B, Paula Patton and Katy Perry. Jebran created his eponymous brand in 2000, a year after placing second in reality television competition Studio El Fan. Having majored in fashion and jewellery from a prominent design school in Beirut, Jebran designs couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, bags and shoes. Caption for: Kids’ Fashion Show – Friday, 24 January, Al Mirqab Mall For the first time, Shop Qatar featured a fashion show for the little ones on Friday, 24 January at Mirqab Mall where Al Mana Group of brands presented the latest in childrenswear. Caption for: Designed by Qatar – Saturday, 25 January, Al Hazm The Saturday evening show brought together a dynamic group of young local designers who showcased their latest couture and pret collections and received applause from the audience as well as international fashion critiques. Featured designers included Waad, Yasmeen Mansoor, Sarmad, Shaden, Tamadar Al Sultan and Lady Ayesha, along with popular local brands Modish, Soliel Abayas, Al Dukan, and the Black Pearl who gave a fresh look at modest fashion by blending traditional abayas with Western influenced cuts, fabrics and accessories.

Doha, Qatar, Nasser Bin Khaled (NBK) Automobiles, the Authorised General Distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, presents the all-new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter in Qatar. It is available now at Mercedes-Benz showroom on Salwa Road. The new Sprinter elevates the benchmark for the large van segment, offering an innovative and diverse range of product features that serves specific market needs more effectively than ever before. Through its technology and intelligence, the new Sprinter offers every customer a model tailored precisely to his or her needs. The 2019 Sprinter transitions from a commercial vehicle with pure utility value to an impressive business card for commercial fleets and businesses. It pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz Vans and embodies the inherent emotional appeal and intelligence. The Sprinter has different priorities dependent on the customers’ needs and requirements. Ranging from the basic specification variant for customers who value proven Sprinter attributes such as standard-fit electronic stability program (ESP) and standard safety equipment like Crosswind Assist, through to the highest specification model where high-resolution touchscreens and high-quality materials determine the visual impression and ambience. The stowage compartment concept exemplifies the adaptability of the interior. A choice of open or closed compartments, and a lockable compartment within the roof liner in the cockpit area, enable the configuration to be tailored precisely to the given requirements for the workplace behind the wheel. Air Conditioning System The desire for multiple individualisation options is continued in the temperature regulation, with a new advanced air conditioning system ideal for the MENA region. Found in a separate control panel below the display for the telematic system, the modular construction of the ventilation system allows both the integration of a standard heating system and the use of a roof-mounted air conditioning system with a separate cooling circuit e.g. for passenger transport in hot countries. The high-performance overhead air conditioning system supplements the air conditioning at the front to up to 7 kW with an additional 11 kW of rear cooling output, both running on independent circuits, to reach a possible combined total of 18 kW to deliver the ultimate in climate comfort in the passenger compartment. The powerful one-zone automatic climate control system THERMOTRONIC automatically regulates the fan, air distribution and temperature to the comfort level of a passenger car. Modern safety and assistance systems The new Sprinter is completely dedicated to safety: supporting Mercedes-Benz Vans’ role as a driver of innovation and a pioneer in the introduction of modern safety technologies in the large van segment. Modern safety and assistance systems play a particularly important role in this segment throughout the region, as commercially used vehicles are often in operation on a daily basis, covering long mileages and must remain controllable even at the limits despite their relatively large dimensions. With the presentation of the new Sprinter, a whole range of optional safety and assistance systems is now available from Mercedes-Benz Vans that were previously maintained within the passenger car series. These include the radar-based distance control system DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. The Sprinter comes also with standard-fit Crosswind Assist, Active Brake Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. 3 camera solutions, from the reversing camera with rear view mirror display to the 360 degrees camera, are optionally available to further enhance the good overall view from the cockpit. The optionally available LED high performance headlamps provide for optimum illumination of the carriageway in dark. Standard fit airbag can help the driver in a collision. An additional 5 airbags are optionally available for driver and co-driver. The exterior: Impressive business card for fleets and businesses The exterior of the Sprinter has a new sensual design without compromising its role to support business needs and requirements. Vehicles in modern fleets are increasingly being given the role of company representatives, whereby the Mercedes-Benz design strategy, established in the passenger car sector, creates the basis for this. Load area: metal panelling, lightweight plastic flooring or heavy-duty wood flooring When it comes to the load compartment, the most important decisions for subsequent areas involves the choice of vehicle model, cab design, body length and tonnage. Depending on the type of model, the load compartment too can be independently adapted to suit the purpose and business model of the user. The Sprinter Tourer can accommodate up to 8 people plus driver. With the longest of the 4 vehicle lengths and the highest roofs, the Sprinter Panel Van offers a load compartment volume of up to 17 m3. When necessary, a trailer load of up to 3500 kg can additionally be attached with a permissible gross combination weight of up to 8750 kg. With over 600 items of optional equipment, including special fleet and suspension solutions, the sprinter can be adapted precisely to your requirements. The new Sprinter is also the leader for payload. Three wheelbases, three vehicle heights and various body variants: variability and versatility are also among the most important attributes of the new Sprinter when it comes to load capacity. Engines and transmissions The four-cylinder diesel engine, available with Euro V emission standards and suitable for Qatar fuel characteristics, has a displacement of 2.1 litres with rear-wheel drive generating with 120 kW (163 hp). Friction losses in the engines and belt drive have been reduced to optimise the efficiency and service life of the four-cylinder engine family. This results in high torque and great flexibility even at low speeds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission is also available for the Sprinter for the first time combining exceptionally smooth gearshifts with exemplary fuel efficiency and relieves the driver of manual gear-changing with KEYLESS START as an option. The seven close-ratio gears keep the engine speed as low as possible in every driving situation. This has a positive effect on the fuel consumption and improves noise reduction. The transmission operated via the gear shift paddles behind the steering wheel spokes allow shifting gears manually as well. Diverse drive variants Rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the new Sprinter covers two drive variants, and can therefore be optimally configured for the relevant transport requirement and operating profile. In the rear-wheel drive variants that are available throughout the region, thanks to separation of the drive and steering, the classic advantages lie in optimum ride comfort, a smaller turning circle and more agile handling. Rear-wheel drive also allows more control when towing a trailer and at the limits of the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight. 4ETS (Electronic Traction System), a feature available throughout the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio with engageable all-wheel drive, performs the task of up to three differential locks – rear, front and centre - through the automatic application of the brake system to a low traction spinning wheel. It applies a series of short brake pulses while consequently increasing the drive torque at the wheels with good traction. The interior: dramatic contrasts and a harmonious overall impression The interior also follows the design philosophy of "sensual purity". Characteristic features include the contrast between the gentle, emotional, yet clear lines along the larger surface areas in the cockpit which has also been revamped. It is boasting a winning combination of high quality design and outstanding functionality with the intelligent modular stowage compartment concept and KEYLESS START, as well as technically and visually precise details such as the air vents or the MBUX multimedia system. Intuitive control concept for the entire cockpit The infotainment system is just one example of the completely new control and display logic in the cockpit. As it is already familiar from the passenger car model series, the instrument cluster with a large display consolidates all the control lamps between the speedometer and rev counter. The instrument cluster is controlled via the touchpad on the left side of the multifunction steering wheel. This is also where the cruise control and distance assistant DISTRONIC are switched on and off. The touchpad that completely controls the MBUX multimedia system is located on the right side of the multifunction steering wheel. Ergonomically shaped seats for a crewbus or VIP shuttle For passenger transport, the new Sprinter is available with different configurations in the passenger compartment and different equipment variants for the seating. The seats can be optionally equipped with an armrest, four-way head restraint and backrest angle adjustment, and if required can also feature USB charging sockets and stowage space for smartphones, suitable for luxurious and professional passenger transport solutions. The newly designed seats allow a posture that relieves back strain and can be precisely adjusted to suit the needs of the driver. The optional memory function for electric seat adjustments particularly shows its advantages in pool vehicles with several users. With Easy Mounting, Mercedes-Benz Vans has also developed a new system where individuals can install and remove seat rows from the Sprinter Tourer, without assistance. New Sprinter “Shuttle” lineup portfolio Partnering with Arobus, a renowned bodybuilder solution provider - Mercedes-Benz Vans MENA has converted the Sprinter into a “Shuttle” variant for the Middle East. The Sprinter “Shuttle” lineup comes in three seating configurations from 15 to 22 seats plus the driver. In this segment of operations, the Sprinter “Shuttle” lineup excels in terms of build quality, comfort and ultimate safety. From the three-point seatbelts to the ergonomic design of the seats and the standard high-performance air conditioning system, the Sprinter “Shuttle” lineup provides the ultimate solution for high-end professional passenger transport. As climate control is of utmost importance in people-movers, the Sprinter “Shuttle” lineup offers upgraded heat isolation through premium insulation technology applied through all surfaces of the vehicle. The sliding door with optimised entrance dimensions, facilitates less air to get in and out of the vehicle, keeping it significantly cooler without compromising the ease of access. The premium isolation technology also creates a pleasant acoustic atmosphere in the interior of the vehicle. This noise reduction is complemented by the fact that the engine is positioned outside of the passenger compartment making this a popular feature in this segment.

(Doha, Qatar) -- The final day for new students to submit an application for admission to VCUarts Qatar is Sunday, February 1st, for the fall 2020 semester, according to Katherine Magnum, Recruitment and Admissions Director at the University. VCUarts Qatar, a Qatar Foundation partner university, is located in Education City at a facility customized with state of the art labs, libraries and studios. VCUarts Qatar is the branch campus of VCUarts in Richmond Virginia, a top ranked public art and design school in the United States. Mangum says that there is already a good number of applicants who have their applications and portfolios submitted, so she encourages others to be sure to not miss the deadline if they hope to begin their studies at VCUarts Qatar in August of 2020. VCUarts Qatar offers five undergraduate degree programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fashion Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Painting and Printmaking and Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History. There is also a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program. According to Mangum, admissions counsellors are available daily for consultations and the university’s website includes application requirements, answers to frequently asked questions, and program information. There is also specific time available for coaching and support on portfolio development. “Our graduates pursue successful careers in a variety of industries – there are many opportunities opening up in Qatar’s economy that are in need of the skillsets that our students acquire at VCUarts Qatar,” says Mangum, “In addition to working as artists and creatives, they can apply their critical thinking and design skills to the growing cultural and museum sector as well as small business, interior design, retail and merchandising, tourism and consulting.” VCUarts Qatar welcomed its class of 2023 in August 2019, with 86 students from 14 countries, with 79 joining as undergraduates and seven joining the Masters of Fine Arts in Design program.

Chile to highlight sustainability, diversity, tradition and progress at Expo 2020 The Republic of Chile is now intensifying preparations for its participation at Expo 2020, under the theme of sustainability, diversity, tradition, and progress which embrace the four pillars of Chile and the principles it values. On its 700 square metre country pavilion Chile will be showcasing sustainable and reliable food production; renewable energy; productive and sustainable mining; sustainable tourism; entrepreneurship and innovation; sustainable infrastructure; astronomy and solid institutions. “The priority for Chile at Expo 2020 will be to highlight the four pillars which embody our nation. We are a land of geographic extremes, with desert, mountains, glaciers and coastline. A country where contemporary co-exists with tradition, through the heart and soul of the Chilean people. “Chile is a country dedicated to progress and sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life for our citizens. A country with a solid reputation, a country that is considered a true and trusted partner,” said Alvaro Saieh, Commissioner General of Chile. Chilean exports to the MENA region in 2018, jumped 19% to over $425 million, compared with the same period in 2017. This growth is partly attributed to robust Chilean walnut exports, according to the latest research from the Trade Commission of Chile. As an agricultural-friendly country, Chile has around 20 products that are among the most exported globally, these include fresh grapes and blueberries, salmon fillets, dried plums and dried apples. “Chilean shipments of walnuts to the Middle East topped US$50 million alone, with the UAE accounting for US$26 million, followed by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, a 73% increase over 2018,” according to Jorge Daccarett, Deputy Commissioner General of Chile. “Thanks to the yield and more importantly the quality of our produce, Chilean exporters meet the highest standards, and we are also developing the halal food and beverage sector. Naturally, with 25 million visitors expected, we are confident that Expo 2020 will deliver the steppingstone we need, to develop further trade opportunities throughout the region and further afield to South Asia.” Chile will also be showcasing its renewable energy capabilities, with 4,000 hours of sunshine in certain regions per year, Chile has the best conditions in the world for solar energy production. Chile’s coastline stretches 4,000km, offering significant potential for marine energy, while the Andes mountain range contains important geothermal energy reserves. “It is also these natural wonders that are making Chile an emerging adventure tourism destination,” added Daccarett. Chile is a world leader in mining and is attracting increasing amounts of foreign investment, especially considering its mineral wealth. Chile holds 29% of the world’s copper reserves, 16% of the molybdenum reserves, 15% of silver reserves, 7% gold, and 54% of the world’s lithium reserves. Ranked top in LATAM (Latin America) and 19th internationally on the Global Entrepreneurship Index, Chile has one of the world’s most successful and progressive business accelerator programmes with 1,300 start ups creating $1.4 billion in net assets. “We are a safe and stable democratic country with an innovative and open business attitude, which is illustrated by our 26 free trade agreements, covering 64 international markets. There are also good opportunities for overseas investors in out transport infrastructure, as well as other public works, such as reservoirs, hospitals and schools,” said Alvaro Saieh, Commissioner General of Chile. With more than 200 participants, including 192 countries, and 25 million expected visits, Expo 2020 Dubai will be the largest event ever held in the Arab region. Running for six months from 20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021, it will be the greatest show of human brilliance, ingenuity and innovation ever seen.

Stage shows for children, Disney show with Qatar Philharmonic, music concerts by renowned Pakistani and Indian singers and much more in the festival’s packed schedule of family-friendly entertainment. The fourth edition of Shop Qatar kicked off on 7 January ushering in over three weeks of family friendly entertainment besides shopping deals and fashion forward events. Qatar National Tourism Council and its partners have announced over 30 events and activations taking place across the country till 31 January, terminating in weeklong Chinese New Year festivities. Young and old alike can enjoy a host of family friendly activities on offer, with shows, concerts and crafts to educate and delight audiences. Jawaher Al-khuzaei from QNTC commented: “As we start the new year with Shop Qatar, a staple in our winter calendar of events, we are pleased to see the efforts of our partners, who collaborate to bring diverse urban and family entertainment options to visitors and residents alike. Qatar’s varied retail offerings, including its shopping malls and open-air venues including The Pearl-Qatar and Al Hazm, offer amazing opportunities for families to enjoy the festivities as well as Qatar’s beautiful winter weather to the fullest.” In addition to shopping discounts, a host of fashion shows by renowned regional and local designers and makeup masterclasses by beauty experts, there’s a packed calendar of family friendly entertainment scheduled to run across the country throughout the festival. Mall Activations Twelve retail partners including the malls are hosting tons of activities for families, with roaming characters every weekend and children’s shows. These include Shaun the Sheep (16-22 January), a Justice League Parade and solo musicians at various malls throughout the festival. Mirqab Mall will host an animal show from 16-18 January and an activation from PAWS rescue where people can pet and/ or adopt animals. There will also be a Bein Family Game Show & Jeem Jawab at Mirqab Mall from 23-24 January and 30-31 January, as well as a children’s fashion show on 24 January. AlKhor Mall will have a special activation in the Kids Zone at the 1st floor food court from 16-18 January while the famed childrens’ Siwar Choir will also perform at The Pearl-Qatar on 17 January. Live Musical Performances An exclusive show, Disney in Concert with Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra will be staged from 17-21 January at QNCC (tickets available at Virgin Megastore). Top Bollywood singer Sonu Nigam will return to charm fans with his hit songs on 23 January at the Asia Town Amphitheatre while the PK Music Festival returns for its 2nd year, featuring Pakistani music legends Junoon on 24 January at QNCC (tickets available at Q-tickets). A New Year Concert will take place on 25 January at Katara Opera House. Chinese New Year Celebrations A unique highlight of this year’s Shop Qatar is the special Chinese New Year themed celebrations taking place in the final week, with an authentic Dragon Parade and a Drum Show at various malls from 25-31 January while special Chinese arts & crafts activities will take place at participating malls from 25-30 January. Running until 31st January, the festival provides shopping discounts of up to 70% across 12 retail partners : Al Mirqab Mall, AlKhor Mall, City Centre, Doha Festival City, Gulf Mall, Hyatt Plaza, Lagoona Mall, Landmark Mall, Mall of Qatar, Villaggio, & The Pearl-Qatar and Galeries Lafayette, with three raffle draws offering cash and car prizes worth over 2 million QAR.

The World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB) has chosen Doha, Qatar, as the venue for THE BIZZ AMEA Awards, to be held at the Marsa Malaz Kempinski Hotel—The Pearl—from November 24 - 27 in 2020. The awards gather and recognize leading businesses from different regions that contribute to the daily growth of their local communities as well as the world economy. THE BIZZ was established by WORLDCOB in 2005 to offer to the global business community a range of benefits that further their development. The awards recognize standouts in their respective regions, with the overarching aim being networking and learning among association members through various activities. Qatar was selected from over 14 destinations, winning out over Kazakhstan and Singapore for the rights to host THE BIZZ AMEA 2020 awards. With the celebration of THE BIZZ Awards in Qatar, it is estimated that the city will receive executives representing around 100 companies from more than 50 countries. HE Akbar Al Baker, Secretary General of QNTC and GCEO of Qatar Airways, commented, "We are very pleased to host THE BIZ AMEA Awards in Qatar, adding to the growing portfolio of global business events that are choosing Qatar as their venue. Hosting over 500 global business events – including conferences, congresses, and symposia, Qatar combines cutting edge services with traditional hospitality, ensuring attendees at these events have an unparalleled experience." WORLDCOB is an international organization founded in 2004 in the city of Houston, Texas, whose primary mission is to dedicated to promoting business development worldwide by using specialized tools initiatives such as THE BIZZ AWARDS, WORLDCOB- CSR, a certificate in Corporate Social Responsibility, and the WORLDCOB TRUST SEAL (WTS)—which provides a seal of business confidence. Jesus Moran, Founder and President of WORLDCOB commented: "Celebrating THE BIZZ AMEA 2020 in Doha excites us deeply. The support of Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) elevates this experience for our members, allowing them to experience cultural entertainment and city tours. THE BIZZ AMEA Awards will host activities encouraging business integration, networking, and tourism, all in an exciting new destination." THE BIZZ Awards have previously been held in Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Rome, Hawaii, Monte Carlo, San Francisco, Amsterdam, and Las Vegas among others; offering members the opportunity to live the BIZZ experience in a different location each year. In the past, Qatari companies Doha Bank, West Bay Petroleum, and Qatar Airways have been recognized for business excellence at these awards. WORLDCOB invites all companies that are interested in applying for THE BIZZ AWARDS to submit their application at www.thebizzawards.com

The Gallery at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) in Education City will be hosting an exhibition that combines augmented reality, art, and the music of Johann Sebastian Bach from an album by acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, to give visitors a unique and immersive audio-visual gallery experience. The opening reception for the exhibition, titled, “Into the Light” will take place at 6pm on January 15, and will start with a panel discussion titled, “Art + Technology: How do artists use it to shape their craft and the way their audiences experience it?” All are welcome to attend. At the exhibition, visitors will be provided with augmented reality handsets and headphones that will immerse them in a world of 3D art and classical music that responds to their movements. Artist Sougwen Chung created six original 3D drawings and sculptures to blend virtual and physical spaces. Visitors to the exhibition can point the provided handsets at her artwork which is accompanied by the recordings of Yo-Yo Ma that matches the user’s movement in relation to the given artwork. The six pieces of art will be on display in the Gallery and surroundings, allowing the visitors to move freely around the area using the augmented reality handsets, while listening to the music. Yo-Yo Ma’s rendition of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 2 in D Minor” will be played through the provided headphones. This work is from Ma’s 2018 recording, Six Evolutions. The panel discussion will be moderated by Dr. Bahaaeldin Abudaya, Senior Curator of Contemporary Art, Fire Station Artists in Residence; with Jessica Brillhart, the Director of the Mixed Reality Lab at the University of Southern California’s Institute for Creative Technologies, and the founder of the independent XR studio, Vrai Pictures; and Myriam Achard, Chief, New Media Partnerships and PR at Centre Phi.