Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles presents Special Offer on Mercedes-Benz cars celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan
Doha, Qatar, March 2, 2025: Celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the authorized general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, launched a special offer on Mercedes-Benz electric and ICE vehicles cars in various categories. Valid from 1 to 31 March 2025, the offer is presented in partnership with Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB). It allows new buyers to own their new Mercedes-Benz at a flat rate starting from 2.63% on ICE cars, and 2.58% on electric cars, 1.7% comprehensive Auto Takaful Rate, with a grace period up to 6 months. Other benefits include optional 0% down payment and Trade-in option in addition to a complimentary Credit Card for the first year. The offer allows the customers to buy new Mercedes-Benz ICE or electric car at affordable monthly installments, starting from QAR 2,739 for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and QAR 3,789 for the a–electric Mercedes-Benz EQA. HE Sheikh Faleh Bin Nawaf Al Thani, General Manager of Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles said: “We are pleased to extend our warmest congratulations to our valued customers on the occasion of the blessed month of Ramdan and to announce the launch of exclusive special offers on a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including both ICE and electric models. We remain committed to providing the best services and privileges to our customers in appreciation of their continued trust and in celebration of this special occasion. NBK Automobiles will continue to offer exceptional deals, providing our customers with a variety of options to own one of the best vehicles from this distinguished brand”. Customers can visit NBK Automobiles showroom on Salwa Road in Doha and leverage the opportunity to own one of Mercedes-Benz vehicles with special monthly installments and a package of special benefits. Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles has built its success by establishing solid, longstanding relationships with its customers, and by offering a wide range of quality products. As a brand name, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles is deeply associated with a history of premium quality service and market leadership. Established in 1957, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles is Qatar’s exclusive distributor of three of the world’s most respected, iconic brands: Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG.
Faith Connexion and TheArsenale Ignite Doha with the Runway on the Rail at Doha’s Design District
Doha, Qatar – February 28, 2025 – In an impactful fusion of high fashion, motorsport, tradition and entertainment, Faith Connexion and TheArsenale unveiled the inaugural Faith Active Collaboration Collection at the “Runway on the Rail” fashion show in Doha’s Design District. This launch marked an important milestone: new standards in luxury streetwear and cross-cultural innovation. The evening was electrified by the presence of Westbrook Racing, the E1 World Championship team founded by Hollywood icon Will Smith. The event coincided with the exhilarating Westbrook E1 Racing Team, creating a powerful synergy between speed and style. Designed by Marcela Meignan in collaboration with Maria Buccellati, President of Faith Connexion, the Faith Active Collaboration Collection draws inspiration from the aesthetics and adrenaline of racing culture. The lineup features a dynamic mix of technical fabrics, aerodynamic silhouettes, and race-inspired details. Adding depth to this collaboration is a special capsule with Qatari brand TRZI, founded by designer Amna Ahmed Al-Misned. This partnership introduces pieces inspired by traditional Abayas, Sheilas, scarves, and ponchos, honoring Middle Eastern tradition while pushing fashion forward. Also joining this creative alliance is Sidi, the iconic Italian brand revered for its high-performance racing boots. Their presence further reinforces the collection’s DNA; where speed, craftsmanship, and innovation collide. “This event is more than a fashion show; it is a creative revolution,” stated Maria Buccellati. “By merging the thrill of motorsport with high fashion, we’re redefining the boundaries of luxury streetwear. The collaboration with TheArsenale and the support from Westbrook Racing and Will Smith have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.” “We wanted to create a collection that incorporates Middle Eastern culture by designing pieces that are bold and expressive while respecting cultural protocols,” added Marcela Meignan. The “Runway on the Rail” event attracted VIP guests, industry insiders, and motorsport enthusiasts, all eager to witness this showcase, committed to pushing the boundaries of fashion and further solidifying Doha’s position as a burgeoning hub for cultural and creative excellence. About Faith Connexion: Paris-based luxury fashion brand known for its avant-garde designs and collaborative approach. With a commitment to innovation and creativity, Faith Connexion continually redefines the landscape of contemporary fashion. About TheArsenale: Creative lab and marketplace dedicated to the future of mobility, uniting independent builders and designers. Founded by Patrice Meignan, TheArsenale explores the intersection of technology, fashion, and mobility, pushing the boundaries of design and innovation. About Westbrook Racing: Founded by Will Smith, competes in the UIM E1 World Championship, the world’s first all-electric raceboat series. The team is dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and bringing excitement to the world of electric motorsports. Social Media Handles: https://www.instagram.com/thearsenale/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/westbrookracinge1/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/mbuccellati_/?hl=en
Nasser bin Khaled and Sons Automobiles Unveils State-of-the-Art Mercedes-Benz Showroom in the Heart of Doha
Doha, Qatar, 2 March 2025: Nasser bin Khaled and Sons Automobiles, the authorized general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, proudly announces the grand opening of its new showroom in the Musheireb area, a prime location in the heart of Doha. His Excellency Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Minister of Finance, cut the ribbon alongside HE Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al-Faisal Holding; Dr. Khalid bin Thani Abdullah Al-Thani, Chairman & Managing Director of Qatar International Islamic Bank and Chairman of Ezdan Holding Group; and HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, Chairman of NBK Group. The event was attended by HE Sheikh Faleh Bin Nawaf Al Thani, Managing Director; Mr. Michael Stroband, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East; and representatives from Mercedes-Benz Global. The gathering also featured VIP guests, celebrities, media representatives, and influencers. The opening of the Mercedes-Benz showroom marks a significant milestone in NBK Automobiles’ long-standing relationship with Mercedes-Benz, dating back to 1961. This new facility ushers in a new era for both brands, aligning with the company’s strategic vision to expand and adapt to the latest trends in the automotive industry while upholding the values and ethos of Mercedes-Benz. Designed in accordance with global Mercedes-Benz standards, the showroom promises to enhance the car-buying experience, merging innovation with elegance and marking the beginning of a new era in automotive excellence. The grand opening ceremony featured an enchanting ambiance, complete with laser lights and captivating music inspired by the Mercedes-Benz brand. The highlight was a dramatic reveal, where HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, Chairman of NBK Group Mr. Michael Stroband, the President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East unveiled the showroom and iconic vehicles from the brand. Following the welcoming speeches and reveal, HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al Thani, accompanied by distinguished guests and media representatives, toured the showroom sections, exploring the array of fascinating services and facilities available. During the tour, guests witnessed the unveiling of two new iconic models: the Mercedes-AMG GT, and the all-electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class. HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, Chairman of NBK Group, stated: “Today, we celebrate a remarkable partnership between NBK Automobiles and Mercedes-Benz, one that has flourished since 1961. Built on a foundation of trust, vision, and mutual respect, this collaboration has allowed NBK Automobiles to become a beacon of excellence in the automotive industry. Continuing my family’s legacy, we are proud to unveil this cutting-edge showroom in Doha. This space not only reflects Mercedes-Benz’s innovation and commitment to quality but also underscores our dedication to delivering exceptional service and customer experiences. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mercedes-Benz for their continued collaboration, and I emphasize the significance of our shared values in reshaping industry standards”. HE Sheikh Faleh Bin Nawaf Al Thani, HE Sheikh Faleh Bin Nawaf Al Thani, Managing Director, NBK Group-Auto said: “It is an honor for me to stand before you today as we continue my family’s legacy. Tonight, we celebrate not only our rich history but also the opening of a modern and advanced showroom that embodies the shared values we hold with Mercedes-Benz. Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles has become synonymous with excellence in the automotive sector, adhering to the strict quality standards for which Mercedes-Benz is renowned. We welcome all our valued customers to come and experience our new facility to discover what we mean by our slogan “The Best or Nothing”. Mr. Michael Stroband, the President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East said in his speech: “The Middle East, and especially Qatar, has always been an important part of the Mercedes-Benz story. With our new retail concept, MAR20X, we are bringing our customers closer to the brand than ever before. This showroom is more than just a place to buy a car—it’s a space where people can experience Mercedes-Benz in a whole new way. Whether it’s exploring our latest models, learning about cutting-edge technology, or simply enjoying the beauty of automotive craftsmanship, this is a place designed for our customers”. During the event, HE Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, presented two recognition awards to HE Sheikh Nasser Nawaf Al Thani, Executive Director of NBK Real Estate, and to Mr Kamal Al-Efranji, General Manager of NICC for their valuable contributions to execute this project. In addition, Mr. Michael Stroband presented the Mercedes-Benz plaque to His Excellency Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani in recognition of the long-term partnership between the two entities. Showroom Specifications and DesignSpanning two floors and covering an area of 9,119 square meters, the new showroom showcases the latest MAR20X design concept from Mercedes-Benz, crafted by Ratnsorb, an MBGD-certified architect. The design features a distinctive glass ceiling that floods the space with natural light, complemented by an innovative Panda ceiling and Risto flooring, along with strategically designed façades at both the front and back. Atop the tower sits the renowned Mercedes-Benz Star, the second 8-meter star of its kind in the world, serving as a landmark in Doha. The showroom incorporates digital elements seamlessly throughout, including a dedicated barista area for fresh coffee and a central accessories and boutique display area offering a wide range of products. A captivating history wall chronicles the brand’s legacy since 1900, showcasing the evolution of its logo and designs, which have consistently kept the star at the pinnacle of the automotive industry. Outdoor screens enhance the experience, transforming waiting moments into fascinating explorations of the captivating world of Mercedes-Benz. Exclusive ZonesThe showroom can accommodate 44 vehicles, featuring dedicated zones that highlight the brand’s premium offerings. The Brand Heritage Zone showcases the rich history of NBK and Mercedes-Benz. The AMG Area includes an exclusive lounge, dedicated accessories display, and a sound counter, featuring a special reception and delivery area for AMG enthusiasts. The Exclusive Zone showcases Maybach and S-Class models with premium interior design, while the G-Class Zone features a desert-themed backdrop, complete with a dedicated lounge and accessory display. Additionally,
HEC Paris, Doha Reveals New Insights into Qatar’s Startup Ecosystem at Web Summit 2025
HEC Paris, Doha Partners as Academic Collaborator on Pioneering Report Eight Country-Specific Reports on Qatar Set for Release Later This Year Doha, 2 March 2025 – The Qatar Entrepreneurial Ecosystem 2024: Structural and Configurational Analysis report was officially launched at Web Summit Qatar 2025, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s entrepreneurial development. This new study provides a data-driven roadmap for fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth in the region. A collaboration between HEC Paris, Doha, and the Observatory for Support of Entrepreneurship (OSE) in Africa, the research introduces a proven analytical framework – already implemented in 33 countries – to the GCC region. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has been confirmed as a key partner in this initiative. Mr. Faraj Jassem Abdulla, Director of the Digital Economy Department at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, stated, “We are committed to driving Qatar’s digital transformation and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. This report offers insights that will contribute to our efforts in creating an environment where innovation can flourish. By leveraging cutting-edge research and collaborative partnerships, we aim to empower entrepreneurs, accelerate sustainable economic growth, and ensure alignment with the objectives of Qatar Digital Agenda 2030 and National Vision 2030.” Led by Dr. Allan Villegas-Mateos, Senior Research Fellow and Entrepreneur in Residence at HEC Paris, Doha, the comprehensive 120-page study analyzes Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem from 2018 to 2023. It offers policymakers, investors, and industry leaders actionable insights to accelerate innovation and business growth. The findings highlight underdeveloped sectors such as FinTech, AgriTech, and DeepTech, which present high-growth investment opportunities. Lusail and Al-Khor are identified as emerging hubs requiring targeted support. Strengthening ties between universities and venture capitalists is essential for commercializing research and fostering innovation-driven entrepreneurship. Digital platforms must be leveraged to enhance knowledge exchange, connectivity, and access to funding. “This report represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and nurture entrepreneurship in Qatar,” said Dr. Allan Villegas-Mateos. “Using network analysis, natural language processing, and ecosystem mapping, we have developed a unique methodology that not only diagnoses challenges but also offers concrete pathways for growth. Our collaboration with MCIT and the Observatory enables us to deliver actionable insights that will shape Qatar’s economic future.” Dr. Pablo Martin de Holan, Dean of HEC Paris, Doha emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Qatar has shown exceptional leadership in fostering innovation within the framework of the National Vision 2030, and this report is an essential tool for policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs interested in innovation and change. The report findings highlight the need for close collaboration between academia, entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors, as well as the need for enhanced support structures and a commitment to inclusivity – key elements for ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.” This initiative leverages the work of the Observatory for Support of Entrepreneurship, established in 2023, in Casablanca, Marocco, by a scientific council of leading scholars in the field from Adalia Institute, Utrecht University, IAE Paris Sorbonne Business School, and IAE Lyon School of Management. Furthermore, the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) will play an important role in ensuring global awareness of this report through its extensive network, amplifying its impact and facilitating knowledge exchange among international entrepreneurial ecosystems. “This approach is already attracting interest from regional stakeholders eager to contribute to the GCC’s entrepreneurship narrative,” added Dr. Villegas-Mateos. To sustain this momentum, eight additional reports are scheduled for release throughout 2025, covering investment trends, capital flow analysis, sector-specific innovation strategies, the impact of regulatory reforms on entrepreneurship, talent development and workforce readiness, and global competitiveness benchmarking. The full 2024 report is available for download at https://www.ose.africa/gcc/qatar/, and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the findings to help shape Qatar’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Visit Qatar Launches the Second Edition of Throwback Food Festival
The second edition of Visit Qatar’s Throwback Food Festival, organised by Visit Qatar, returns at Doha’s Old Port. This year it features new additions and exciting experiences. The festival celebrates the country’s local heritage through traditional cuisine and cultural experiences, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the past. Hamad Al Khaja, Manager of Festivals & Events Delivery at Visit Qatar, said: “Throwback Food Festival is a unique experience that celebrates Qatar’s rich heritage through a variety of events that include traditional cuisine, cultural performances, and interactive competitions. This year, we have expanded the range of activities and enriched the experience, combining heritage markets, traditional games, folk tales, and artistic performances that reflect Qatar’s cultural identity. Through this event, we aim to provide an integrated experience that blends the authenticity of the past with the modernity of the present, making Throwback Food Festival one of the most prominent Ramadan events that enriches the tourism scene in Qatar.” A Ramadan experience with local touches Throwback Food Festival brings the old Qatari souks to life through the ‘Dakkan’ initative, which recreates the flavours of old Qatar, where visitors can sample traditional foods and sweets from the Tayyibin generation. The experience allows visitors to relive their childhood through the dishes they grew up with, in an atmosphere that is full of the flavours of the past. The Folk Games Kiosk also hosts fun competitions that reflect the spirit of Qatari traditions, where visitors can participate in traditional games in a lively Ramadan atmosphere. Quizzes and Tales from the Past The Throwback Food Festival Theatre offers a range of artistic and cultural activities inspired by Qatar’s heritage. Visitors can enjoy interactive competitions such as ‘Kahoot’, which includes questions on popular foods, traditional crafts, and heritage events, with valuable prizes for the winners, as well as ‘Treasure Hunt’ competition, which invites participants to solve heritage puzzles and interact with different stalls to discover the secrets of the past. Set in a lively atmosphere that embraces heritage, the Hakawati tells stories about the history of local cuisine and hospitality, with sound effects and traditional costumes reflecting the spirit of the past. At the Puppet Theatre, children and families can enjoy a puppet show that tells stories about Qatari cuisine and the importance of hospitality and traditions, in an interactive and entertaining way. The festival offers an interactive experience for culinary enthusiasts, with chefs competing in the ‘Local Flavour Challenge’ to prepare Qatari dishes with a creative twist, and the public participating in the ‘People’s Taste Challenge’ to choose the best dish. There will also be a ‘Secret Ingredient Challenge’ where chefs will have to prepare dishes using surprising ingredients, making the competition even more exciting. Folkloric performances and folk songs The festival will host live musical performances featuring traditional songs and rhymes sung at majlis and weddings, and during food preparation such as grinding wheat and making bread, using drums, oud and marwas to add authenticity to the visitor’s experience. This year’s Garangao will also be a night full of colour, joy, and memories. To further enhance the Ramadan experience in Qatar, Visit Qatar has launched this year’s Ramadan campaign titled “Welcome Our Dear Neighbours” which aims to welcome visitors from the GCC during the holy month of Ramadan for an exceptional Ramadan experience, under the theme “Ramadan is better with you”, with Qatar Calendar’s events. Visitors can explore the Ramadan events calendar on the Visit Qatar website and app. For more details on activities and events that blend tradition with modernity, they can also follow @QatarCalendar on social media.
