Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — Sheikh Salman bin Jabor Al-Thani, Head of the Qatar Astronomical Center, has revealed the discovery of what is believed to be the first meteorite fragment ever found in Al Khor. The rare find — a form of tektite, also known as cosmic glass — was uncovered by chance along the Al Khor beach. Speaking to Al Sharq, Sheikh Salman explained that the fragment was located among rocks near the shoreline, partially submerged in water. After further examination by specialists, the specimen was confirmed to be a tektite, a natural glass formed when a meteorite collides with Earth’s surface, melting and solidifying upon impact. He highlighted the meteorite’s unique characteristics, noting visible signs of melting along its edges, clear evidence of its fiery entry into the atmosphere. However, its weight and the time of its fall remain undetermined. Sheikh Salman added that the Qatar Astronomical Center has discovered over 30 meteorites across the country to date and expressed hope that more fragments could be found in Al Khor in the future. “Discovering meteorites of this size is significant for astronomical research and helps strengthen scientific studies in Qatar and the wider region,” he emphasized. This discovery marks an important milestone in Qatar’s ongoing efforts to explore space-related phenomena and contributes valuable data to the region’s astronomical research.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — The Hayya platform, now operating under Qatar Tourism (QT), has achieved a major milestone, successfully processing over two million e-visa applications since the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Between 2023 and today, the platform has handled more than 1.5 million individual applications, demonstrating its robust capacity and efficiency in facilitating travel to Qatar. According to QT, the Hayya mobile app now boasts 2.7 million active users, with the platform processing over 60,000 applications per month since April 2023. “Following the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, we enhanced the Hayya system to manage multiple visa types,” said Saeed Al Kuwari, Director of Hayya. “By adopting the right technologies and aligning with security standards, we have delivered a highly efficient platform that improves the tourism experience and supports Qatar’s digital transformation.” Originally developed for managing fan entry during the World Cup, Hayya has since evolved into a comprehensive e-visa ecosystem offering five visa categories: 🛂 Tourist Visa (A1) 🛂 GCC Resident Visa (A2) 🛂 Visa with ETA (A3) 🛂 Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4) 🛂 Hayya Visa Waiver for US Citizens (F1) Looking ahead, Hayya 2.0 is set to launch soon, featuring: ⚡ Streamlined payment gateways 📲 Enhanced mobile and web portal interfaces 🎟️ Improved integration with events, tourism, and lifestyle services With its integrated visa processing, event access, and digital tourism tools, Hayya plays a key role in positioning Qatar as a leading global destination, supporting the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Tourism Strategy.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — Qatar has announced plans to revive the multi-billion-dollar Sharq Crossing project, one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure developments, aimed at connecting Hamad International Airport (HIA) with West Bay, Katara Cultural Village, and Lusail through a network of bridges and subsea tunnels. Originally unveiled in 2013, the Sharq Crossing will feature three interconnected extensions, including bridges ranging between 600 meters and 1.3 kilometers, redefining Doha’s skyline and easing traffic congestion along the Corniche Road, which is also undergoing expansion. According to the Ministry of Finance, the project is estimated to cost around $12 billion and will be completed within four years once construction begins. It is expected to handle 6,000 vehicles per hour, significantly improving connectivity between Doha’s key districts. “Large-scale projects like Sharq Crossing will create thousands of jobs and boost the local construction sector, which now has world-class expertise gained during Qatar’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022,” said Mohamed bin Ahmed Mohamed Ali Al Obaidli, Board Member of Qatar Chamber. The project is part of Qatar’s long-term vision to invest in strategic infrastructure, enhance urban mobility, and support the country’s economic growth.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — Qatar National Library (QNL) has announced an exciting lineup of cultural and educational events this September, offering a unique blend of lectures, workshops, conferences, film screenings, and musical performances aimed at fostering learning and cultural exchange. Highlights of the September 2025 program include: Key Events 2 Sept — “In the Footsteps of an Ottoman Traveler” 📍 Heritage Library | Lecture by Seymen Bozaslan, exploring the travels of 17th-century explorer Evliya Celebi. Features a rare four-meter-long manuscript map from QNL’s collection. 6 Sept — The Power of Visual Storytelling for Palestine 🎥 Evening of short documentary screenings by Mo’men Ghanim followed by a panel discussion. 7–11 Sept — Arabic Sign Language Training ✍️ QNL’s first-ever five-day course on inclusive communication skills and sign language. 10 & 11 Sept — Parents-to-Be Virtual Forum 👶 Expert-led sessions offering guidance on early childhood care and parenting tips. 11 & 30 Sept — Librarians for Libraries Series 🤖 Online sessions exploring AI in libraries, including Artificial Intelligence in Libraries and Using AI to Enhance Research. 16 Sept — Science Book Forum with Dr. Rana Dajani 🌟 Lecture on redefining success, innovation, and resilience for women in STEM. 18 Sept — Young Adults’ Book Club 📚 Discussion with Qatari author Shamma Al-Kuwari on her award-winning novel Shaheen. 21–24 Sept — 4th Doha Conference on Combating Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property 🏛️ Organized in partnership with UNESCO and global diplomatic missions to discuss heritage protection and international collaboration. 25 & 27 Sept — Cultural Mosaic Photography Workshop 📸 Documentary photography training using smartphones, led by Mo’men Ghanim. 25 Sept — Philharmonic at the Library Concert 🎶 Vuelvo al Sur — a special musical program celebrating the Qatar-Argentina-Chile 2025 Year of Culture, featuring chamber works from both countries. QNL encourages community members to register early and make the most of this vibrant September calendar. For event details and registration, visit www.qnl.qa/en/events  or download the QNL mobile app on the App Store or Google Play.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — Qatar’s largest food and entertainment event, the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), is set to make a grand comeback with its 15th edition from January 14 to 24, 2026 at the 974 Stadium precinct, according to Qatar Tourism. Organized by Visit Qatar, QIFF 2026 promises a vibrant celebration of culinary diversity, showcasing the best of local, regional, and international flavors. Visitors can expect: 🍜 Hundreds of food kiosks from around the world 🍽️ Cooking shows and live demos by top chefs 🎶 Family-friendly entertainment and interactive workshops 🌏 International culinary experiences, gourmet dining, and more Kiosk registration is now open for local restaurants, home-based businesses, and international food outlets wishing to participate in Qatar’s most popular food festival. Interested applicants can apply online through the Qatar Tourism website, providing basic business details, a company registration copy, and a valid health certificate. https://www.qatartourism.com/en/business-events/calendar-of-business-events/qatar-international-food-festival Last year’s QIFF 2025 drew over 365,000 visitors and hosted more than 180 food vendors, offering everything from global street food to fine dining. Highlights included: 🔥 The QIFF Ring with food competitions 👨‍🍳 A Cooking Studio with live chef demonstrations ⭐ Michelin Guide Village featuring gourmet experiences 🎆 Daily fireworks shows and family zones 🍴 Dinner in the Sky — meals served 40 meters above ground! While the 2026 lineup hasn’t been revealed yet, this year’s festival is expected to deliver the same fun, food, and festive vibes — plus a few new surprises.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — The countdown has officially begun for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, with exactly two years to go until tip-off on August 27, 2027. The tournament will culminate with the grand final at Lusail Multipurpose Hall on September 12, 2027. To mark this milestone, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) revealed the four official venues that will host the 92 matches: 🏟 Lusail Multipurpose Hall → Lusail Arena 🏟 Duhail Sports Hall → Duhail Arena 🏟 Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena → Al Attiyah Arena 🏟 Al Janoub Stadium → Al Janoub Arena For the first time in FIBA history, matches will be staged inside a football stadium, with Al Janoub Stadium — a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 venue — being transformed into a world-class basketball arena with a seating capacity exceeding 8,000 fans. “Hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 is a great honor and a huge responsibility. We are committed to delivering the best World Cup in history, continuing Qatar’s legacy of world-class sporting events,” said Mohammed Saad Al-Meghaiseeb, Director General of FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 and President of the Qatar Basketball Federation. Three of the venues are already fully prepared, while work continues on transforming Al Janoub into a state-of-the-art basketball arena — a historic first for the sport.

Doha, Qatar — 21 August 2025 — The Qatari Calendar House announced that the Suhail star (Canopus) will be visible in Qatar’s skies on Sunday, August 24, 2025, coinciding with 1st Rabi’ al-Awwal 1447 AH, marking the start of the Suhail season across Qatar and much of the GCC. According to Eng. Faisal Al-Ansari, Executive Director of the Qatari Calendar House, residents of the Gulf region eagerly anticipate Suhail’s appearance each year because it signals the end of intense summer heat. The 52-day Suhail season marks a period when: 🌙 Nights become longer and cooler 🌞 Days gradually shorten 🌧️ Chances of rainfall increase 💨 Hot desert winds, known as Al-Simoom, begin to fade Dr. Bashir Marzouk, astronomical expert at the Qatari Calendar House, explained that Suhail will be visible toward the southern horizon during the first week of September, and can be spotted using Sirius (Al-Shi’ra al-Yamaniya) — the brightest star in the night sky — as a reference point. The annual rising of Suhail is significant for Arab culture and heritage, influencing many aspects of traditional life: 🌾 Farmers prepare their lands for the rainy season 🏜️ Bedouins plan grazing and travel routes ⚓ Sailors historically used it for navigation and fishing schedules Astronomically, Suhail is the brightest star in the Carina constellation and the second-brightest star in the night sky after Sirius, located about 300 light-years away from Earth.

Doha, Qatar — 20 August 2025 — The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has announced that, starting today, new arrivals from the Republic of the Philippines must undergo confirmatory medical examinations at the Medical Commission as part of the residency process. These follow-up examinations are designed to ensure that new residents are free from communicable diseases and act as a continuation of the pre-departure tests conducted at Ministry-approved medical offices in the Philippines. MOPH emphasized that this measure aligns with its ongoing public health commitment and ensures safe and healthy entry into the State of Qatar. The Ministry also clarified that Qatar Visa Centres in six Asian countries — India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal — already conduct comprehensive medical checks before departure. The new confirmatory exams in Qatar provide an additional layer of safety and are free of charge for all new arrivals from the Philippines applying for residency.

Doha, Qatar — 20 August 2025 — In preparation for the 2025/2026 cruise season, set to begin in November 2025, Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, organized a joint strategic workshop aimed at enhancing the cruise passenger journey and driving the growth of Qatar’s cruise tourism sector. The two-day workshop brought together key representatives from government entities and private organizations, focusing on sector development, innovative initiatives, and global best practices in cruise tourism. Sessions highlighted the latest developments, addressed current challenges, and explored strategies to deliver exceptional visitor experiences. “Cruise tourism is a vital pillar of Qatar’s tourism strategy, playing an increasingly important role in supporting the national economy and strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global destination,” said Mr. Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Chief of Tourism Development at Qatar Tourism. Mr. Youssef Jaber Al Jaber, Director of Government Development Affairs, added: “Our collaboration with Qatar Tourism focuses on enhancing every stage of the visitor journey, ensuring seamless integration with government services and delivering a world-class experience for all cruise passengers.” The workshop featured interactive sessions designed to foster collaboration between stakeholders, identify priority areas, and develop actionable plans ahead of the upcoming cruise season. Certificates were awarded to participants for their valuable contributions. Following an exceptional 2024/2025 season that welcomed over 360,000 visitors aboard 87 cruise ships — a 19% year-on-year increase — Qatar is gearing up for another record-breaking cruise season in November 2025, further cementing its status as a premier cruise destination in the region.

Keeta Delivery Doha, Qatar – 19 August 2025  — Keeta, the international subsidiary of Meituan , China’s leading on-demand delivery giant, has officially launched its services in Qatar. To celebrate its arrival, all new users  will receive vouchers worth 200 QAR , and everyone  can enjoy free delivery with no subscription fees . With this launch, Keeta aims to bring a smarter, faster, and more affordable  food delivery experience to Qatar. The platform offers a seamless ordering journey , on-time deliveries , and exclusive promotions , featuring an ever-growing lineup of local and international restaurants that reflect Qatar’s rich culinary diversity . “ Qatar is a market of immense importance to us, not only because of its vibrant food culture but also due to its forward-looking vision for digital innovation  and everyday convenience ,” said Jane Liu , General Manager of Keeta Qatar. “With Keeta, we bring Meituan’s scale, technology, and operational expertise to support Qatar’s Vision 2030 , offering accessible, reliable, and affordable  delivery services.” Keeta’s launch brings users access to some of Qatar’s most popular restaurants  and international favorites , including Karak Mqanes , Jollibee , and Flat White Specialty Coffee . The company’s advanced order management systems  and intelligent delivery routing  ensure that meals are delivered fresh, fast, and free . Having already achieved success in Hong Kong  and Saudi Arabia , Keeta leverages Meituan’s powerful technology , which powers over 150 million daily orders  and serves 770 million global users . In Qatar, Keeta also aims to empower local businesses , helping restaurants expand their reach  and connect with a wider customer base . Keeta Logo For more information or to start ordering, download the Keeta app  today from the App Store  or Google Play .

Doha, Qatar – August 19, 2025 – Qatar Rail has announced the launch of its new 365-day Metropass, offering commuters unlimited rides across the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram networks. Priced at QR 990, the pass is designed to provide residents and frequent travelers with a convenient and cost-effective mobility solution. The announcement was made during the second edition of the “Back to School” event, hosted at Sport City Station on Doha Metro’s Gold Line. The event, running from August 19 to September 2, 2025, is held in collaboration with school supplies retailers and partners, bringing exclusive offers and family activities to customers ahead of the new academic year. As part of the launch, Qatar Rail is introducing a special Early Bird Promotion. Visitors to the Back-to-School event can pre-book the 365-day Metropass at a 20% discount by collecting Early Bird vouchers until August 31, 2025. These vouchers can be redeemed at Doha Metro Gold Club offices or Lusail Tram ticketing offices between September 1–30, 2025, with the original voucher required at purchase. The event also features a variety of free activities for children and families, including an interactive gaming zone, painting, coloring, art workshops, and competitions with valuable prizes. Activities run weekdays from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and weekends from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Through this initiative, Qatar Rail reinforces its commitment to delivering accessible, affordable, and family-friendly public transport services while encouraging the community to embrace sustainable mobility.

Qatar Tourism, through its Service Excellence Academy, and in collaboration with Qatar Museums, has successfully concluded the first edition of the Junior Tour Guide 2025. The initiative was designed to inspire young Qataris by engaging them in interactive tourism activities across Qatar’s museums. The camp welcomed two groups of children of different ages, underscoring Qatar Tourism’s commitment to developing essential skills promoting tourism awareness within the local community. The first batch of junior tour guides have been awarded during the closing ceremony at the National Museum of Qatar, attended by parents and partners. Commenting on the programme, Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar Tourism is committed to delivering impactful programmes and initiatives that serve our local community through the Service Excellence Academy. This camp provided children with valuable skills such as storytelling, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of Qatar’s rich heritage. Beyond tour guiding, these skills contribute to building self-confidence and effective communication in our youth, the next generation of tourism ambassadors. To encourage our youth, we remind them that among you may be a future tour guide or tourism expert who will carry Qatar’s message to the world.” The closing ceremony was hosted at the National Museum of Qatar, which also provided learning spaces and educational guided tours for participants. The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum supported the first two days of the programme with an interactive activity zone, while the Museum of Islamic Art’s education team collaborated with Qatar Tourism to deliver a creative learning experience through an “Escape Room”. In addition, Qatar Museums provided logistical support, ensuring seamless coordination of venues, galleries, and scheduling. The Cultural Village Foundation – Katara further enriched the programme by granting access to its cultural and educational facilities, including the Al Thuraya Planetarium, Opera House, and Drama Theatre. On the third day, Doha Bus contributed to the experiential learning by offering a sightseeing tour, giving children the opportunity to practise tour guiding while discovering Doha’s most iconic landmarks. This initiative is part of Qatar Tourism’s continuous efforts to engage the local community, particularly children and families, by offering opportunities to engage with the tourism sector through an innovative educational and entertaining lens. In response to the strong interest and participation from the community, Qatar Tourism remains committed to developing and expanding similar initiatives in the future.