Zeekr expands partnership with Qualcomm to bring immersive infotainment experience to Future Vehicles
Doha, Qatar –22 January 2025: Blue Lake Motors, a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, is pleased to announce a pioneering development from global electric mobility innovator ZEEKR and Qualcomm Technologies. The companies have revealed plans to integrate the next-generation Snapdragon Cockpit Platform into ZEEKR’s upcoming vehicles. This collaboration represents a major leap forward in automotive technology, enhancing the in-car experience with cutting-edge connectivity and intelligent features. It underscores ZEEKR’s commitment to driving the future of mobility and setting new benchmarks in the electric vehicle industry. Thousands of Zeekr hardware and software engineers in China and Europe are developing intelligent cockpit features, including intelligent navigation, enhanced voice interactions and eye-control to offer an immersive, multi-sensory experience to global users. Christopher Preston, Executive Director, Blue Lake Motors, said: “As Zeekr continues to grow in Qatar, we’re excited about the opportunities this partnership with Qualcomm brings. The integration of the Snapdragon Cockpit Platform into our vehicles will offer a whole new level of innovation to our customers here in Qatar. With features like intelligent navigation, advanced voice control, and immersive entertainment, we’re aligning with Qatar’s ambition to lead in smart, sustainable mobility.” He continued: “This technology will not only elevate the driving experience but also complement our plans for a future-focused, eco-friendly transportation ecosystem.” Demonstrating this technology relationship, Zeekr is showcasing new Zeekr 001 FR, Zeekr 009, and Zeekr Mix vehicles, all powered by the Snapdragon Cockpit Platform (SA8295P) during CES 2025. In the future, Zeekr will select the next-generation Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform builds on the company’s ongoing relationship with Qualcomm Technologies to integrate future technologies with higher computing capabilities into Zeekr’s to-be-launched new vehicles. This integration will not only provide advanced intelligent navigation, enhanced voice interactions, and innovative eye-control systems but will also include: Simon Jiang, vice president at Zeekr, said “We will hold a more opening-up cooperation and strengthen the collaboration with Qualcomm in the future, to reach new technological milestones and provide a better driving experience for our users globally.” “We are thrilled to see our Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform empowering automakers like Zeekr to deliver dynamic and immersive mobility experiences to their consumers,” said Lei Xian, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, Qualcomm Technologies. “We are eager to continue this journey together, bringing transformative solutions that redefine the in-car experience.” For more information or enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us at 8000505.
All-New Patrol marks a bold design evolution for Nissan SUV line up in the Middle East
Iconic SUV ushers in a new era of the brand’s design language and premium innovation tailored for the region Doha, Qatar (January 14th, 2025) – Unveiling a bold, new chapter for the brand in the Middle East, the recently launched all-new Nissan Patrol has solidified its position as a design benchmark for the region and beyond. As the first of five all-new SUVs to be introduced in the region by Fiscal Year 2026 under The Arc, Nissan’s global business plan, the Patrol exemplifies Nissan’s bold approach to design innovation, seamlessly blending its legendary legacy of over 70-years with modern sophistication. More than an evolution, the all-new Patrol introduces a new era of SUV design for Nissan, with a distinctive silhouette that balances rugged capability with premium refinement. Bringing together timeless heritage and cutting-edge aesthetics, the all-new Patrol embodies the perfect balance of Nissan’s global design philosophy of “Bold Presence” and “Solid Dignity”. Inspired by extensive research across key global regions, including the Middle East, Nissan’s designers created the all-new Patrol to express a dynamic duality. With bold sculpted lines and balanced proportions, the Patrol exudes a powerful stance while refined details elevate its premium appeal. Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan, INFINITI, commented: “The all-new Nissan Patrol is a bold statement of Nissan’s refreshed design language and an embodiment of our vision for SUVs in the Middle East. For generations, the Patrol has been an integral part of the region; and with this latest model, we’ve drawn inspiration from its iconic design to create a vehicle that upholds its legendary status. A pioneer of Nissan design language, the all-new Patrol reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of our customers while setting a new standard for premium SUV.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “The all-new Nissan Patrol has been exceptionally well-received in Qatar. Its bold, striking design and premium features truly resonate with our customers. With enhancements like the distinctive V-motion grille, modern lighting elements, and a refined interior, the all-new Patrol sets a new standard for SUVs in the region. It embodies both power and luxury, perfectly aligning with Qatar’s growing demand for innovative and sophisticated vehicles. We are proud to offer this new chapter of the Patrol, a vehicle that combines Nissan’s legendary heritage with modern design to meet the expectations of today’s discerning drivers.” Upfront, the Patrol proudly displays its “Bold Presence” design philosophy, now enhanced by a wider, more pronounced V-motion grille that pays homage to the second-generation Patrol with its integrated horizontal bar. This commanding feature is paired with sharply sculpted lines and modern lighting elements, including the distinctive new “double-C” lamp design, which together forge a futuristic yet unmistakably Patrol exterior. The full-width rear light bar further accentuates this evolution, maintaining the vehicle’s sense of power and prestige. The side profile of the Patrol is marked by a gently sloping shoulder line that stretches from front to rear, projecting a blend of prestige and agility. This design is accentuated by a rising window line between the C- and D-Pillars, with blacked-out pillars that create a floating roof effect. The iconic Patrol emblem adorns the D-Pillar, enhancing the vehicle’s identity. Stylish 22-inch alloy wheels underline the SUV’s bold stance, while sleek LED accents modernize the overall design, achieving the perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality. Inside, the Patrol’s premium cabin offers a glimpse into Nissan’s commitment to “Solid Dignity”. Emphasizing craftsmanship and user-centric innovation, twin displays dominate the console, while soft materials and carefully integrated components maintain an elegant, clean design. In keeping with the Japanese concept of Ma (Mastery of Space), each seating row is crafted with equal attention to detail. Enhanced roominess and the premium quilted leather with precise stitching inspired by traditional Kumiko patterns, offer passengers a premium experience. Meanwhile, unique touches including the “Since 1951” badge on the center console honor the Patrol’s enduring legacy. Practicality meets elegance in every detail, from Damping Acoustic glass that ensures a tranquil cabin, to a wireless phone charging mat textured to resemble sand dunes, echoing the Patrol’s natural setting. With increased cargo capacity and thoughtfully engineered seating, including first and second-row seats equipped with NASA-inspired spinal support technology, the all-new Patrol is designed to elevate every journey, whether within city limits or beyond. The all-new Nissan Patrol, with its unmatched combination of powerful design and premium comfort, is an SUV built to inspire and empower drivers across the region. It offers an array of seven striking exterior colours, each developed to enhance its dynamic appearance. The addition of four vibrant two-tone options to the exterior color palette offers increased personalization, enabling drivers to express their unique style while evoking a sense of authority and elegance. The all-new Nissan Patrol is currently available at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., showrooms – the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar – conveniently located across Qatar. For more information, visit the showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.
Eight Films Supported by Doha Film Institute Selected for 75th Berlin International Film Festival
Doha, Qatar; January 22, 2025: Doha Film Institute continues to makes impact globally with eight films supported through its Grants programme selected to the 75th edition of the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) to be held from February 13 to 23. The films have been chosen to the Competition section as well as Critics’ Week, Forum Expanded and Generation Kplus, as well as in Panorama. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute, said: “The selection of these films at the Berlin Film Festival is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity of young filmmakers from across the world, that stand out for their diversity of themes and their innovative approach to storytelling. It reflects our commitment to supporting filmmakers who are pushing boundaries and telling compelling stories that resonate globally. At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the power of cinema to bridge cultures and inspire change, and this achievement reaffirms our mission to elevate voices that deserve to be heard.” The DFI-supported films at Berlinale 2025 include Yunan (Palestine, Germany, Canada, Italy, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Ameer Fakher Eldin screens in the Competition section, the centrepiece of the festival that presents about 20 selections annually. The film is about Munir, a renowned Arab author exiled in Germany, who is burdened by psychological torment and plagued by hauntingly vivid dreams. Desperate and despondent, he embarks on a journey to a remote island, where he encounters Valeska, a wise elderly woman, and her steadfast son, Karl. Their presence unexpectedly radiates hope and redemption. Ancestral Visions of the Future (Lesotho, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese screens in the Berlinale Special segment, is a poetic allegory of the filmmaker’s childhood, an ode to cinema and an inner nod to his mother. Through fragmented narratives and mythic imagery, Mosese crafts a haunting reflection on dislocation and belonging. Screening in the Perspectives programme is Mohamed Rashad’s The Settlement (Egypt, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) follows Hossam who gives up his thuggish lifestyle to be able to provide for his sick mother and brother Maro after the death of his father. Hossam goes to work at the same factory as his father and begins to doubt whether his death was accidental. Featuring in the Forum Expanded is My Armenian Phantoms (Armenia, France, Qatar) by Tamara Stepanyan, is a tribute to the director’s father, Vigen Stepanyan, who was a beloved theatre and film actor in Armenia. Screening in Generation Kplus, a competition programme that screens state-of-the-art international cinema, is The Botanist (China, Qatar) by Jing Yi, about a lonely Kazakh boy named Arsin, in the valley villages of the northern border of Xinjiang, who is obsessed with plants. Through his fascination with the plant world, he recounts memories of his nomadic family in contemporary times. The two films in the Panorama section include: Yalla Parkour! (Palestine, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Areeb Zuaiter is about Ahmed, who aspires to become an international Parkour champion despite the blockade that troubles Gaza and Khartoum (Sudan, UK, Germany, Qatar) by Anas Saeed, Rawia Alhag, Ibrahim Snoopy, Timeea Mohamed Ahmed and Phil Cox, in which four Sudanese filmmakers mix observational documentary and innovative graphics, archives and animation to capture the lives of four real characters, all living and surviving in the war-torn metropolis of Khartoum. Selected to the Critics’ Week is East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) by Hala Elkoussi is a satire on the inner workings of an ailing autocracy and its inherent vulnerability to youth’s unchained vision of a better world.
Qatar Tourism prepares to host the 21st edition of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qatar Tourism is set to host the return of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), taking place from January 30th to February 5th 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). Now in its 21st year, DJWE has firmly established itself as Qatar’s premier event for luxury jewellery and watches, providing a platform that showcases exceptional craftsmanship and artistry from global and local designers. The week-long exhibition will feature exquisite collections, statement pieces, and innovative designs from Al Fardan Jewellery, Al Majed Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Amiri Gems, Fifty-One East, Al Muftah Jewellery, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Arts and Gems. In addition, the event will host a diverse range of international brands and emerging Qatari designers, continuing its tradition of blending heritage with innovation. The exhibition will also see the return of three highly anticipated pavilions: the Qatari, Turkish, and Indian pavilions, each showcasing unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage of each country. Commenting on this year’s exhibition, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition is one of Qatar Tourism’s flagship events, exemplifying our commitment to hosting world-class MICE events and reinforcing our global position as a leading hub for luxury experiences. In addition to showcasing the latest trends from international jewellery and watch brands, DJWE offers a platform for Qatari designers, showcasing their exceptional talent and craftsmanship.” He added, “As we continue to work towards the goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030, events such as DJWE reflect our dedication to economic diversification, supporting local talent, and offering unique experiences to visitors from around the world. The 21st edition will bring together more than 500 brands from 30 countries, creating a unique opportunity for cultural and business exchange.” DJWE has long been established as a premier B2B and B2C jewellery and watches exhibition in the region. Owned by Qatar Tourism and sponsored by Visit Qatar, this year’s edition will bring together industry leaders, renowned brands, and distinguished clients from across the region, offering visitors the unique opportunity to explore an extraordinary array of collections, engage directly with industry experts, and participate in exclusive networking sessions. As a vital contributor to the nation’s event calendar and a driver of cultural exchange and economic growth, DJWE continues to solidify its reputation each year as a platform for business growth and creative collaboration. For more information on DJWE 2025, please visit www.djwe.com To explore the latest events on Qatar’s calendar, visit www.visitqatar.com.
