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.

The Minister of Commerce and Industry, HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani, issued the decision No. (80) of 2025, published today, August 17, 2025, in the official Gazette issue number (21), regulating the working hours for commercial, industrial, and similar public establishments during Friday prayers.  Article (1) of the decision states that all commercial, industrial, and similar public establishments are permitted to operate according to the hours they determine throughout the entirety of the day of Friday, with the exception of some specific establishments.  In accordance with the directives issued by the Ministry, and in accordance with public interest and wellbeing, Article (2) of the decision states that “all commercial, industrial, and similar public establishments must close their doors and cease all work during Friday prayers for a period of one and a half hours, starting from the first call to prayer.” The following set of commercial, industrial, and similar establishments, are exempt from the previous obligation:   Pharmacies.  Hotels and lodging facilities. Hospitals, health centers, and private medical clinics.  Fuel stations.  Commercial establishments located at the state’s entry points, such as airports, land ports, and seaports.  Telecommunication companies.  Management of electric and water power-generating machines Bakeries Airline company offices at airports and seaports. Businesses where operations continue without interruption and with a shift system.  Transport of passengers and goods by land, sea, or air.  Any other activities determined by the specialized department in the Ministry, in accordance with the public interest and well being.  Article (3) of the decision states that all relevant authorities, each within their own jurisdiction, must adhere to the implementation of this decision, and it shall be effective from the day following of its publication in the Official Gazette.

Qatar Calendar in collaboration with Events & Entertainment Enterprises (E3), is pleased to announce the return of InflataCity – the world’s largest indoor inflatable event, taking place from August 5 to 28 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Following the remarkable success of its 2024 edition, which welcomed over 42,000 visitors, this year InflataCity 2025 is yet again set to deliver an even more action-packed unforgettable experience featuring new activities and entertainment for the whole family. Spanning Halls 4 to 9, the 30,000 sqm air-conditioned space will be transformed into an immersive family playground featuring giant inflatables, paintless paintball arena, a kid’s driving experience, arcade zones, carnival games, dining, all-day live entertainment.     Highlights of the Event Include   Mega Inflatables & Obstacle Courses Over 30 inflatable installations including favourites like InflataMonster, Festival Inflata, and CandyMaze, with giant slides and obstacle challenges for kids and teens.   Arcade Gaming & VR Simulators Enjoy a high-energy gaming zone featuring air hockey, claw machines, PS5 stations, racing simulators, and virtual reality experiences.   Carnival & Skill Games A fun-filled zone with paintless paintball, bazooka ball, and classic games such as Can Knockdown, Bucket Ball, and Ring Toss.   Live Stage Shows & Roaming Mascots Daily entertainment including live performances and character appearances by favourites like Bounco, Striker, Jumpy, and Slimy.   Retail & Food Court Twelve curated retail kiosks offering toys, accessories, and event merchandise, alongside a dedicated food court with 16 dining outlets.   VIP Lounge A premium lounge experience featuring complimentary refreshments, fast-track access, and valet parking for added convenience.   Timings The event will run daily from 1:00 PM to 11:00 Pm throughout the summer holidays.   Admission Categories General Entry | QAR 40 (venue access only) InflataPass | QAR 75 (access to inflatable zones) Super Pass | QAR 250 (all games + 4 carnival games) Family Pass | QAR 300 (admits 4 people, inflatables access only) VIP Pass | QAR 350 (all access + 6 carnival games + VIP Lounge + valet + fast-track) Summer Weekly Pass | QAR 500 (full access + added benefits per visit) Summer Monthly Pass | QAR 1500 (unlimited access + exclusive perks)Infants under 1 | Free entry   Tickets are available via BookingQube, Virgin Tickets, Platinumlist, and SnoonuCity, with availability on-site subject to capacity.   Accessibility and Transport QNCC is easily accessible by Doha Metro and Lusail Tram. Free parking is available at the venue, with valet service provided for VIP ticket holders. The venue is fully accessible to visitors of determination.   With an exciting line-up of activities under one roof, InflataCity 2025 is expected to be one of the summer’s most popular indoor family events. Whether seeking thrills, games, or a cool break from the heat, this inflatable experience promises fun for all.   For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar

Doha, Qatar – August 2025 – The Qatar Photography Center, under the Ministry of Culture, has announced the opening of submissions for the first edition of the Doha Photography Award, a landmark initiative dedicated to fostering visual creativity and showcasing Qatar’s photographic identity. Entries will be accepted from 10 August to 2 October 2025 and are open to photographers of all ages and experience levels, both from within Qatar and around the world. Award Categories & Prizes The competition features six main categories: Qatar Category – Celebrating the nation’s beauty and landmarks. (Prizes: QR 300,000 | QR 200,000 | QR 150,000) General (Colors) – Exploring the power and emotion of color in photography. (Prizes: QR 150,000 | QR 100,000 | QR 75,000) General (Black & White) – Highlighting the artistry of monochrome imagery. (Prizes: QR 150,000 | QR 100,000 | QR 75,000) Special Theme (Emotions) – Capturing genuine human emotions and storytelling moments. (Prizes: QR 150,000 | QR 100,000 | QR 75,000) Story Category – A series of 6–10 images narrating a visual story. (Prizes: QR 150,000 | QR 100,000 | QR 75,000) General (Under 18) – For young Qatari photographers under 18. (Prizes: QR 30,000 | QR 20,000 | QR 10,000) With total prizes exceeding QR 2 million, the award offers one of the most significant financial incentives in the region for photography. Submission Guidelines All entries must be taken with professional cameras. Mobile phone photography and AI-generated images are strictly prohibited. Images must be high-resolution JPEG/JPG (300 DPI, max 3000 pixels on the longest side). Logos, watermarks, and date/time stamps are not permitted. A maximum of three entries per category (except Story category: 6–10 images). Participation is free of charge. Quotes from the Organizers Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of the Qatar Photography Center, expressed pride in launching the award: “The Doha Photography Award provides a prestigious platform for both local and international photographers to share their vision and creativity. We aim to celebrate Qatar’s beauty while fostering a vibrant, global photography community.” Why It Matters This first edition of the Doha Photography Award is expected to draw worldwide participation, thanks to its generous prizes, diverse categories, and unique focus on Qatar’s cultural and visual heritage. Deadline: 2 October 2025, 7:00 PM (Doha time) Register:  dpa.qpc.qa

The Supreme Judiciary Council (SJC), in cooperation with the Public Prosecution, has announced a joint auction of vehicles through the official Court Mzadat app. The auction will take place on Wednesday, 13 August 2025, from 4 pm to 7 pm. Among the vehicles up for bidding are: Mercedes GT53 (2020): mileage approximately 74,209 km BMW X5 (2015): mileage approximately 58,640 km Nissan Patrol (2013): mileage approximately 206,702 km Interested buyers can participate exclusively via the Court Mzadat app via Google Play or Apple Store , where full vehicle details, terms, and conditions are listed.

The Address Downtown Hotel and View on Burj Khalifa Doha, Qatar – August 2025  – A distinguished delegation, including a key representative from Doha’s media, recently completed an exclusive three-day, three-night fan trip to Dubai—an initiative by the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism , coinciding with the city’s vibrant Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) . Traveling roughly five hours from Doha to Dubai by Road or 40 minutes by Air, the group embarked on an immersive journey exploring luxury hospitality, innovative cultural experiences, and high-energy entertainment. Stay & Welcome Guests checked into Address Downtown , a five-star destination adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, featuring refined rooms, spa-style bathrooms, modern technological amenities, and direct access to Dubai Mall. The Address Downtown Room Cultural Coffee Vibes The group visited Gahwa Beats , one of the DSS activations blending DJ-led coffee sessions in a visually vibrant pop-up setting. DJ Whiteboy City from Above A thrilling glass skywalk on the 53rd and 54th floors provided breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline. Refined Flavours Dinner at Kumo  offered a serene ambiance inspired by traditional Japanese homes and a menu rich in delicate contemporary cuisine. Japanese Elegance at Kumo Late-Night Eats Guests sampled beloved BIG burgers at GOAT , known for its innovative approach, global flavors, and scenic locale. Bite into the Best at G.O.A.T The day ignited creative expression at Wild Paint House , where participants engaged in neon splatter art and abstract painting experiences. Unleash Your Creativity at Wild Paint House Adrenaline and nostalgia took center stage at Active Games , where the delegation: Navigated a life-size Pac-Man  maze—dashing, dodging ghosts, and reliving pixel arcade memories. PAC Man Embarked on an emotional Titanic VR  journey—exploring historically accurate decks, cabins, and the ship’s final hours through immersive VR storytelling. Step Back in Time – Titanic VR Zoomed through Chaos Karts , Dubai’s first hybrid virtual go-kart track filled with vibrant themes and interactive power-ups. Parisian Nights Dinner at Cassette  in Al Quoz concluded the day with a creative fusion of modern Parisian cuisine and community-driven ambiance. Parisian Charm at Cassette Summer Shopping & Italian Finale Guests explored the sprawling Great Dubai Summer Sale (GDSS) . The trip culminated at Mama Trattoria , within Mama Shelter Dubai , offering authentic Italian brasserie fare, vibrant nightlife, and a playful, design-forward hospitality experience. Great Dubai Summer Sale Italian Cusine This curated three-day experience highlighted Dubai’s harmony of luxury hospitality , creative expression , high-tech entertainment , cultural richness , and retail allure . As the only media representative from Doha, this journey uniquely positioned Qatar at the crossroads of cultural exchange and tourism storytelling—bringing back insights and experiences that will resonate with a broad regional audience.

The inaugural Goodwood Summit, part of The Qatar Goodwood Festival presented by Visit Qatar, brought together senior leaders from Qatar and the United Kingdom in a strategic forum dedicated to deepening bilateral cooperation. The event commenced with welcome and opening remarks by the Duke of Richmond and Gordon, CBE DL, who warmly welcomed guests to Goodwood and celebrated the launch of the inaugural Goodwood Summit. His remarks set the tone for a day of meaningful dialogue and collaboration. In his opening remarks, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of Board of Directors of Visit Qatar underscored the strength of UK-Qatar relations, Qatar’s tourism ambitions under the National Vision 2030, and the unifying role of sport and cultural diplomacy, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to innovation, economic diversification, and purposeful bilateral cooperation. The Goodwood Summit also highlighted the shared priorities between the two nations, from strengthening economic partnerships and advancing cross-sector innovation to fostering cultural exchange through sport and philanthropy. Qatar’s participation reflected its integrated approach to international collaboration, positioning sport and culture as powerful conduits for global engagement.

His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Doha 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games Bid, visited the Visit Qatar activation at the Qatar Goodwood Festival presented by Visit Qatar, accompanied by His Excellency Mr.  Saad Bin Ali AlKharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, and Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar. The activation offered an elevated platform that showcased Qatar’s rich heritage alongside its passion for equestrian excellence. The activation featured thoughtfully curated elements—including live illustrated portraits celebrating race day elegance, a bespoke leather stamping station for personalised keepsakes, and a heritage corner where visitors drew traditional Arabic proverbs from a pearl-diving basket, offering an authentic connection to Qatari storytelling.

Qatar confirms 2036 Olympic bid talks with IOC, aiming to host the first-ever Games in the MENA region with 95% infrastructure ready.

Doha – July 2025 – Visit Qatar has entered a strategic, year-long partnership with the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai — a premier multidisciplinary venue dedicated to celebrating India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in cultural diplomacy and tourism promotion, uniting two vibrant nations through shared experiences and creative expression. As India continues to be Qatar’s second-largest source of inbound visitors, this partnership reflects Visit Qatar’s commitment to offering tailored travel experiences for the Indian market. Through this collaboration, Indian travellers are invited to explore the dynamic intersection of luxury, tradition, and world-class hospitality that defines Qatar as a leading destination. Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, stated: “India is a key strategic market for us. This partnership with the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre allows us to deepen our engagement with Indian travellers by offering immersive cultural experiences that connect deeply with shared values of heritage and innovation.” Devendra Bharma, CEO of Jio World Centre, added: “This collaboration reflects Mrs. Nita Ambani’s vision of cultural exchange — celebrating the best of India while welcoming the best of the world. Together with Visit Qatar, we look forward to redefining travel through a rich cultural lens.” A major highlight of the partnership will be a dedicated art installation unveiled at the NMACC, complemented by a flagship celebratory event showcasing Qatari and Indian traditions through curated crafts, performances, and heritage exhibitions. This initiative reinforces Qatar’s growing status as a world-class cultural and tourism hub, supported by premium infrastructure, diverse experiences, and a robust calendar of international events — all designed to cater to the preferences of the Indian traveller.

Doha, Qatar – July 2025 – The beloved Souq Waqif Local Dates Festival is back for its 10th edition, celebrating the richness of Qatar’s date harvest and local agricultural heritage. Held at Eastern Square in Souq Waqif, the festival will run from 24 July to 7 August 2025, welcoming visitors daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and until 10:00 PM on weekends. Organized annually to showcase locally produced dates and related products, the festival provides a vibrant marketplace for Qatari farms to engage directly with the public, while promoting sustainable farming and national produce. Guests can enjoy free entry to explore a variety of high-quality dates including Khalas, Khunaizi, Barhi, and Shishi varieties, along with innovative date-based products such as date syrup, sweets, and snacks. The festival also offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of Doha’s most iconic traditional market, blending heritage with delicious flavors. This year’s event continues to support local farms while inviting families and tourists alike to discover the sweet side of Qatari tradition.

Doha, Qatar – July 2025 – Visit Qatar, in collaboration with Discover Qatar and Qatar Airways, has successfully concluded a high-impact roadshow in Nigeria, aimed at positioning Doha as a premier destination for leisure travel and stopover experiences. The strategic initiative gathered over 120 key travel professionals and trade partners, beginning with a large-scale engagement event in Lagos attended by more than 100 guests. This was followed by an exclusive networking luncheon in Abuja, which welcomed 20 senior stakeholders from the Nigerian travel industry. The events served to showcase Qatar’s diverse tourism offerings – from cultural heritage and world-class hospitality to luxury shopping and adventure tourism – while fostering direct business-to-business connections between Nigerian agents and Qatar-based suppliers, including Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and hotels. The roadshow forms part of Visit Qatar’s broader strategy to enhance awareness of stopover programs, Qatar Airways’ seamless connectivity, and the country’s unique experiences. It also aimed to facilitate new collaborations with Nigerian tour operators and leisure travel agents. By tapping into the growing Nigerian outbound travel market and leveraging Qatar Airways’ strong presence in the region, this initiative further cements Qatar’s standing as a preferred tourism hub and reflects its commitment to building long-term trade ties across West Africa.