Timeless Elegance Unveiled: Lagoona Mall Watches & Jewellery Week
Lagoona Mall once again became the epicentre of luxury and creativity as it hosted its highly anticipated Watches & Jewellery Week. This exclusive event brought together an extraordinary blend of global icons and regional talents, offering Qatar’s discerning clientele a unique opportunity to explore the finest in watchmaking and jewellery design. This year’s event featured an impressive lineup of renowned brands, including Rolex, CHANEL, Boucheron, TUDOR, Annamaria Cammilli, Azza Fahmy, David Yurman, and many more. Highlights included Rolex’s immersive GMT-Master II Experience, which offered visitors a rare chance to delve into the world of this iconic timepiece. CHANEL introduced its Style Guide Iconic Mix pop-up, where experts helped clients personalise their look with signature collections. Boucheron transported guests to a serene Jardin d’Hiver tea salon, while TUDOR showcased the latest in Swiss watchmaking with models such as the Black Bay and Pelagos FXD Chrono. Azza Fahmy presented Rumuz, a collection inspired by the Kaf symbol, blending North African influences with contemporary design. Additionally, J by JOELLE unveiled private styling sessions, and L’Âme by Fifty One East offered unique, minimalist jewellery with live welding experiences. All in all visitors discovered a world of exquisite craftsmanship and innovation at Lagoona Mall, where every piece told a timeless story of elegance and artistry.
Melodies of elegance: Mouawad’s Symphony Collection with Dana Al Fardan
Mouawad revealed the Symphony Collection in a dazzling launch in Doha, Qatar. This extraordinary jewellery line, created in collaboration with Dana Al Fardan – Qatar’s first female composer and singer-songwriter – captures the transformative power of music and artistic expression. Inspired by piano keys and vertical music bars, the collection is a celebration of harmony, blending the timeless elegance of black jade and the brilliance of white diamonds. Each piece resonates with emotional depth and personal expression, designed to empower and inspire contemporary jewellery lovers. Dana Al Fardan’s latest musical masterpiece, Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light), serves as the collection’s heart: “This collection reflects the unity of our inner light and strength, creating a sanctuary where we shine in our fullest brilliance,” she shares. From dynamic earrings that mirror the rhythm of music to innovative sliding diamond rails in bangles, the collection bridges the worlds of music and jewellery. Co-Guardian Fred Mouawad applauds the collaboration: “It’s a timeless celebration of individuality and elegance.” With this exquisite debut, the Symphony Collection redefines luxury, offering a wearable masterpiece that harmonises craftsmanship, beauty, and meaning.
QIA’s US$1 billion investment in VC funds upped Qatar as a startup hub
Dima Wahbeh, deputy country manager, Qatar at Web Summit, in conversation with Aparajita Mukherjee details what the maiden edition achieved for the venture capital market, analysing what’s up the sleeve of Web Summit in 2025 especially in the realm of policy making. “For the second year, many of the biggest wealth funds and VCs in the world will be at Web Summit Qatar to connect with 15,000 attendees, 1,000 startups, 400 investors and global leaders in Doha.” In its inaugural year, Web Summit Qatar gathered the largest and most globally diverse cohort of startups to ever gather in the region – more than 1,000 startups from 80 countries – to connect with a new generation of investors and partners hailing from countries such as Qatar, the US, Egypt, Brazil, Italy, Nigeria, the UK, India, and beyond, discloses Dima Wahbeh, deputy country manager, Qatar at Web Summit. Naming the prominent names at the last edition of Web Summit Qatar 2024, Wahbeh says, with unbeatable confidence, “There were Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), Tik Tok, Snap, Microsoft, AWS, Meta, and more that took part: and we expect to see the same calibre of international tech companies, including Open AI, Amazon and Microsoft – as well as thousands of young promising entrepreneurs from around the world – join us in Doha in February 2025.” Many of these startups from Web Summit Qatar 2024 have received funding off the back of connections made at Web Summit Qatar, according to Wahbeh. According to Crunchbase, a cumulative $243m+ has been raised by Blend, Colendi, OTO, YoLa Fresh, Kebotix, Chowdeck, Intron Health, PairedWorld, ORA Technologies, and KalPay. Web Summit Qatar offers an incredible platform to startups, and we are excited to see the next generation of startups join us in Doha again next February, she says. For the second year, many of the biggest wealth funds and VCs in the world will be at Web Summit Qatar to connect with 15,000 attendees, 1,000 startups, 400 investors and global leaders in Doha. Increasingly, some of the most active players in the technology industry are sovereign wealth funds, the most active of which are in the Middle East, and all of them will be at Web Summit Qatar 2025. “So, if you’re a fast-growing company thinking about your next funding round, a reasonable place to spend a day or two is Web Summit Qatar,” discloses Wahbeh, adding, “We recently announced our first 25 speakers for Web Summit Qatar 2025 and will be announcing more shortly. We look forward to sharing more details about Web Summit Qatar in the weeks ahead.” What transpired at Web Summit 2024 Discussing the details of what impact the maiden edition of Web Summit 2024 could achieve, Wahbeh says that the team were delighted to see many impactful events take place at Web Summit Qatar 2024 showcasing the potential of the country’s startup ecosystem. She adds, “On Opening Night at Web Summit Qatar 2024, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, announced that the QIA would be investing US$1 billion in venture capital funds to support entrepreneurs and startups in Qatar. This announcement demonstrated Qatar’s dedication to becoming an attractive destination for startups to establish themselves and grow, and cements Qatar’s status as a global startup hub.” Wahbeh informs that 24 memoranda of understanding were signed at Web Summit Qatar 2024: and the event saw the successful registration of more than 200 companies through the Startup Qatar initiative. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology also launched the Digital Agenda 2030 live on stage, outlining a roadmap for a knowledge-based economy in Qatar, she discloses. Analysing the impact of these measures, Wahbeh says, “The announcements and initiatives have had a hugely positive impact on the Qatar startup ecosystem, and we believe that this will continue to grow in the years ahead and during Web Summit Qatar’s tenure in Doha.” In your experience of holding such summits all over, do policy changes happen as a result of holding such events? Is there some monitoring mechanism that Web Summit have? In Wahbeh’s opinion, host cities play a crucial role in Web Summit events, collaborating closely with organisers to enhance the experience for attendees and bolster the city’s positioning as a global startup hub. “Naturally we work with host cities to assess that impact, and demonstrate the success we can help deliver.” She goes on to cite the example of Lisbon’s, adding that its position as a global innovation hub has grown significantly since it began hosting Web Summit, with Web Summit helping to attract investment and connect Portugal to international markets. Inward investment in Portugal has soared over the past decade: Web Summit partners that have opened offices in Portugal include Google, BMW, Amazon, Daimler, Huawei and Cloudflare. “There are now 4,073 startups in Portugal, up from 821 startups in 2016, when the first Web Summit Lisbon took place – an increase of 496% over this period. The number of unicorns in Portugal has grown from 1 to 7 between 2016 and 2022: all have attended Web Summit. Additionally, the economic impact Web Summit has had in Lisbon has been significant, with the data showing Web Summit generating more than €200 million worth of economic activity the week of the event,” discloses Wahbeh, concluding that host cities are motivated to host events like Web Summit to position themselves as key players in the global tech community, ultimately driving local economic growth and innovation. Impact on the economic front Talking us through some of the highlights of the impact of the Summit on the Qatar economy, Wahbeh says that hosting a Web Summit event has a significant impact on the local economy, bringing attendees from across the world to a host city for a number of days. “For Web Summit Qatar 2024, over 15,000 attendees came to Doha, booking over 38,000 nights in Doha hotels, and 19,000 flight segments. The average stay in Doha for an attendee
Setting golden benchmarks of running an exceptional Asian restaurant
General manager of restaurant Morimoto Paulo Bastos peaks about the Distinguished Service Award from Michelin Guide won recently by the restaurant and what it means to the establishment. BL: What does winning the Michelin Award for distinguished service mean for restaurant? Bastos: Winning a Michelin Award for distinguished service signifies that Morimoto has achieved exceptional excellence in its hospitality and customer service. It reflects the establishment’s ability to provide a seamless, welcoming, and memorable dining experience, including professionalism, attentiveness, genuine care and a warm atmosphere. This recognition enhances our reputation, attracts more guests and positions it as a leader in the fine dining industry. BL: As a restaurant manager what are the top five things that you espouse for the betterment of Morimoto Doha?Bastos: The five key principles I uphold to elevate Morimoto Doha are: delivering outstanding customer service; ensuring consistent excellence in food quality; prioritizing employee growth and well-being; embracing innovation; and maintaining adaptability to stay ahead. BL: Given your hospitality experience, what new have you introduced to the restaurant that has consistency with the golden benchmarks of running an Asian restaurant?Bastos: At Morimoto Doha, we have introduced several elements that elevate the dining experience while staying true to the golden benchmarks of running an exceptional Asian restaurant: Refined sushi omakase service: In Doha, we have implemented a personalised sushi omakase experience, where guests are guided through a journey of curated dishes prepared by our chefs. This style of service not only highlights the artistry of Japanese cuisine but also creates an intimate and memorable connection with our patrons. Exclusive culinary offers: Our menu in Doha features unique offerings tailored to the local market, including regionally inspired dishes that incorporate premium ingredients such as saffron, local seafood, and spices while maintaining the authenticity and innovation that define Morimoto. This ensures our menu stands out from what is commonly available in the market. Interactive dining concepts: To differentiate ourselves, we’ve incorporated interactive dining elements such as live sushi masterclasses giving guests the opportunity to witness the precision and expertise of our chefs firsthand. Special events regularly: Hosting seasonal and cultural dining events such as sake and elevated drinks masterclasses, Kai Tai shows , ichiba offers, all with an eye to help reinforce the authenticityof our brand while providing something unique and at the same time, standing out as a pioneer in the local dining scene. BL: The business of food is also an art. What is your take on this?Bastos: The business of food is undeniably an art – one that transcends nourishment to evoke emotion and connection. Each dish is a canvas, where flavours, textures, and colors tell a story, celebrating tradition while daring to innovate. In Qatar, where food is both a cultural celebration and a sensory journey, this artistry takes on profound meaning, bridging heritage with modernity and creating experiences that linger in memory. The art of food lies in crafting not just meals, but moments that resonate deeply. SIDEBAR: “Our recipes capture the true essence of the Morimoto brand”: Restaurant manager Paulo Bastos Culinary excellence: Every dish must showcase premium ingredients and exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting Morimoto’s dedication to innovative techniques and unforgettable flavours. Authenticity with innovation: The menu should blend traditional Japanese culinary heritage with modern, creative twists that embody the Morimoto ethos. Seasonality and sustainability: Prioritising fresh, in-season, and sustainably sourced ingredients to ensure outstanding flavour and environmental responsibility. Visual presentation: Each plate must be crafted with precision and elegance, reflecting the aesthetic sophistication synonymous with Morimoto. Consistency: Recipes are standardised to guarantee a consistently exceptional dining experience across every visit. Guest-centric approach: Menus are thoughtfully designed to accommodate diverse dietary preferences and restrictions while maintaining authenticity and quality. Harmonised flavours: Dishes must achieve a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas, embodying Morimoto’s philosophy of culinary harmony. By upholding these standards, we deliver menus that capture the true essence of the Morimoto brand.
Atomic Habits: What makes or breaks us
James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, delves deep into the power of small habits and their ability to make a big impact on our lives. It offers practical strategies and insightful anecdotes to help readers understand how to build and break habits effectively. The author emphasises that change does not occur overnight, but rather through the accumulation of small, consistent actions and outlines a simple yet powerful framework: the four laws of behaviour change which consists of making habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying. These laws, when applied appropriately, can help readers create desirable habits and eliminate undesirable ones. His whole philosophy is based on the idea of making tiny, or “atom-like” changes. And then those small changes snowball. Clear backs up his claims and advice with scientific research and studies, by illustrating the psychology and neuroscience behind habit formation, and provides a solid foundation for his suggestions. This evidence-based approach adds weight to the ideas presented, making them more compelling. What sets Atomic Habits apart from other self-help books is its practicality. Clear breaks down the process of habit formation into easy-to-follow steps, making it more likely for readers to take action and see real progress, providing various techniques to overcome common stumbling blocks along the way, such as habit stacking and habit tracking, making it easier for readers to build in accountability. This is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their lives by harnessing the power of habit. The four laws
Reducing food wastage, addressing food insecurity
Wardha Mamukoya, founder and managing director of Wa’hab is up against a very basic human need: food and how it is distributed. Her solution is to redistribute excess food to those in need, while promoting a circular economy based on the three R’s – reduction, re-using and recycling, writes Aparajita Mukherjee. BL: Talk us through the philosophy behind Wa’hab.Mamukoya: Wa’hab’s philosophy is centered on reducing food waste and addressing food insecurity by creating a system to redistribute surplus food to those in need. Simultaneously, we promote the principles of a circular economy by focusing on the reduction, reuse, and recycling of food waste, ensuring that resources are maximised and waste is minimised at every step. In essence, we aim to promote a circular economy where food waste is not discarded but repurposed. Surplus food is collected from restaurants, events, and businesses and redistributed to communities facing food insecurity. However, we do not stop there. Non-edible food waste is recycled into compost, which can be used in local gardens and farms, creating a sustainable resource cycle. The environmental benefits of food waste recycling extend far beyond composting. By diverting food waste from landfills, we prevent harmful greenhouse gases like methane from being released into the atmosphere. This is a significant step toward achieving Qatar National Vision 2030’s sustainability goals. BL: What drove you to start Wa’hab?Mamukoya: There is a Hadith of our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who is reported to have said: “He is not a believer who eats to his fill while his neighbour is hungry.” Pondering over this, I questioned how I could qualify to be a believer if I could not guarantee if my neighbors have eaten or not. Judging by the large amounts of good-quality food being thrown away at restaurants and events, there was enough food to feed everyone. The problem clearly wasn’t foodshortage but the lack of an efficient system to connect surplus with those in need. The environmental impact of food waste, a fact that many people fail to grasp, was another drive that motivated me to take action. Food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, which is released as food decomposes in landfills. (Read the full interview on https://businessleadersme.com/category/magazines/#
Sidra Medicine launches Qatar’s first cord blood bank
Sidra Medicine has recently launched the country’s first cord-blood banking service which will offer families a unique opportunity to preserve families’ newborns’ stem cells in Qatar, for potential future medical needs. This has been under a partnership with CellSave Arabia, a leading name in the field of biotechnology research. Cord blood banking is the process of collecting and storing the blood from a newborn’s umbilical cord and placenta after birth. The collection is painless, non-invasive, and risk-free for the mother and baby. Cord blood is rich in hematopoietic stem cells, which have the potential to treat various medical conditions, including certain cancers, blood disorders, and immune system diseases. Professor Johnny Awwad, chair of women’s services at Sidra Medicine said: “As the only facility in Qatar providing local cord blood storage, Sidra Medicine offers an unparalleled advantage by keeping the samples in the country. This ensures their optimal quality and immediate access when needed most, compared to having them shipped from abroad. Cord blood is increasingly being stored by parents everywhere, who are seeking to preserve their child’s stem cells as they can be crucial for their child or their sibling/s in the future. Our commitment to the latest technology and international standards further guarantees the utmost reliability and peace of mind for families in Qatar.” All the cord blood samples will be sent to Sidra Medicine’s Cord Blood Bank in its Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility, where cryogenic freezing will allow them to be stored securely for over 30 years. To expand its reach to other families in Qatar, Sidra Medicine signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CellSave Arabia, and the services are available to any family in the country choosing the joint Sidra Medicine and CellSave Arabia service as their stem cell storage provider regardless of whichever hospital their baby is born in. Alia Abdel-Razeq, COO of CellSave Arabia said at the MoU signing ceremony with Sidra Medicine: “Partnering with Sidra Medicine marks a pivotal step in our commitment to healthcare innovation in Qatar. By utilizing Sidra Medicine’s exceptional facilities and expertise, we can significantly elevate our service offerings, ensuring that families in Qatar have access to vital stem cell banking services that support their future health needs.”
Sartoro Genève and AlFardan Jewellery Present Exclusive High Jewellery Showcase at Corinthia Yacht Club
Sartoro Genève, in collaboration with AlFardan Jewellery, hosted an exclusive afternoon tea reception at the Corinthia Yacht Club. The event, held on December 16, 2024, brought together Sartoro’s esteemed clients and members of the Corinthia Yacht Club for an intimate and sophisticated showcase of the Maison’s high jewellery collection. Guests were treated to an immersive experience, discovering Sartoro Genève’s impeccable creations, each radiating elegance and expert craftsmanship. The curated display, set against the luxurious backdrop of the Corinthia Yacht Club, was complemented by an elegant afternoon tea, allowing guests to connect and enjoy the Maison’s artistry in a refined setting. This exclusive event marked a memorable celebration of jewellery, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. About Sartoro Genève:Sartoro, a visionary Fine and High Jewellery Maison based in Geneva, stands as a pillar of trust in the heart of the city, where three generations converge. Its commitment to excellence is showcased through innovative creations and unrivalled quality, designed to set apart, telling the unique story of the wearer’s essence. Founded in 2001 by Arto and Saro Artinian, the Maison’s enduring dedication to transparency in craftsmanship is upheld by its in-house artisans, who meticulously source, select, cut, and craft each creation. Rooted in a rich family legacy and guided by ethical principles and familial connection, Sartoro fosters a sense of trust and reliability, preserving tradition and delivering exceptional creations. As a family business, the Maison’s commitment to client relationships, founders’ active engagement, and above-and-beyond client care contribute to a deeply personal and cherished journey for every individual.
Luxury liner to home port in Qatar for next three winter cruise seasons
Homeporting from Doha, Celestyal Journey offers cruise passengers a seven-day itinerary across the Arabian Gulf, with the participation of Qatar Tourism and Mwani Qatar in the welcome ceremony to mark the arrival of the ‘Celestyal Journey’ cruise ship to Doha. The Celestyal Journey arrival on the shores of Doha is a key highlight of Qatar’s 2024-25 cruise season, which is set to see 95 cruise calls, including 33 turnaround calls, 11 homeporting operations, and five maiden visits. The welcome ceremony was attended by Omar Al Jaber, chief of the Tourism Development Sector, Qatar Tourism, Abdulrahman Saad Al Baker, manager of Doha Port, as well as representatives from local and international media. The event featured a traditional Ardah performance, in addition to local crafts and souvenirs, offering a glimpse into Qatar’s rich cultural heritage. Speaking on the arrival of the cruise ship, Omar Al Jaber, said: “The arrival of the Celestyal Journey at Doha Port marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Celestyal and further solidifies Qatar’s position as a premier destination in the Arabian Gulf. Homeporting from Doha, this collaboration highlights the growing appeal of Qatar as a gateway to unique cultural and travel experiences. Together with Mwani Qatar, we are proud to deliver seamless operations and an enriching guest experience that reflects Qatar’s world-class hospitality and diverse tourism offerings.” Abdulrahman Saad Al Baker expressed his pleasure at the launch of the inaugural voyage of the Celestyal Journey in the Arabian Gulf, with Doha Port serving as its homeport for the next three seasons. “This milestone reinforces Doha Port’s position, under the management of Mwani Qatar, as a premier gateway for marine tourism in the region,” he stated “It underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance the tourism sector in Qatar. The selection of Doha Port as the homeport for the Celestyal Journey reflects the growing confidence in Qatar’s world-class maritime infrastructure and aligns with the nation’s vision of enhancing sustainable tourism while boosting the sector’s contribution to the national economy.” Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “We’re incredibly excited to see our first ever Arabian Gulf season get under way. I would like to thank our partners at Qatar Tourism, Mwani Qatar and Qatar Airways for their continued support and warm welcome to the region. We are confident that our special FI themed cruises will ensure we have a roaring start to the season, while the Desert Days itinerary offers the very best of the local region. Whether guests are familiar with the destinations we visit or are sampling them for the first time, there will be a wealth of authentic experiences available to everyone.” Celestyal Journey can accommodate 1,260 passengers with a crew of 630. Featuring 14 decks and seven restaurants, the ship dedicates an entire deck dedicated to fitness and wellness, including three swimming pools, two jacuzzies and a modern gymnasium, alongside a theatre, and a kids’ club.
