Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality Celebrate Gerhard Foltin’s Pivotal Role in Shaping Qatar’s Hospitality Landscape
Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality jointly hosted an honorary Suhoor at the Sheraton Grand Doha Hotel to celebrate Mr. Gerhard Foltin, a pioneering figure in Qatar’s hospitality industry who first arrived at Doha in 1977 to manage the iconic Doha Club. In 1982, Mr. Foltin became the founding General Manager of the Sheraton Grand Doha, where he played a key role in its planning and design. With a career spanning over five decades, his visionary leadership has left a lasting impact on the growth and evolution of Qatar’s hospitality landscape. The event celebrating Mr. Foltin was held in the presence of the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H.E. Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, and the CEO of Katara Hospitality, Mr. Nasser Matar Al Kawari, along with key industry figures and members of the media. Mr. Foltin expressed his appreciation for the recognition extended to him by Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality during the event. HE the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, expressed his gratitude for Mr. Foltin’s contributions. He said, “Mr. Gerhard Foltin’s leadership helped shape Qatar’s hospitality sector and set new standards of excellence.” Mr. Nasser Matar Al Kawari, CEO of Katara Hospitality, said: “At Katara Hospitality, we take immense pride in celebrating the individuals who have been part of our journey – those whose vision, hard work, and commitment have helped shape Qatar’s hospitality landscape. It is through such remarkable contributions that we continue our pursuit of excellence, I extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Foltin for his invaluable contributions. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward, honouring the past while shaping the future of hospitality in Qatar”. The evening served as a tribute to Mr. Foltin’s enduring legacy and a celebration of the people and partnerships that continue to shape Qatar’s hospitality sector. As Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality reaffirm their shared commitment to excellence and innovation, the event also highlighted the nation’s ongoing journey toward becoming a premier global destination for luxury and cultural hospitality, one built on the foundations laid by visionary leaders such as Mr. Foltin.
Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Secures Prestigious Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for Second Consecutive Year
Doha, Qatar – 25 March – Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park proudly announces its exceptional achievement of being awarded the Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for the second consecutive year. This prestigious honor reaffirms Desert Falls position as a global leader in aquatic safety, setting an unparalleled benchmark in the industry. Having made history as the first waterpark in the Middle East to receive this esteemed accolade, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park remains the only waterpark in the world to have earned this distinction back-to-back for the 2023/24 seasons. This remarkable recognition underscores the teams unwavering dedication to the highest safety standards. Among 850 facilities evaluated worldwide in 2024, only nine were awarded this top-tier honor, with just two located outside the United States. This distinction reflects the park’s steadfast commitment to safety, operational excellence, and its mission of Zero Drownings, ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for every guest. The Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award is presented annually by Jeff Ellis & Associates, the global authority in aquatic safety and risk management. Reserved for the top 12% of facilities worldwide, the Platinum designation represents the highest level of safety compliance. To achieve this elite status, facilities must exceed expectations in Jeff Ellis & Associates’ Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP), which rigorously evaluates lifeguard performance, emergency procedures, and overall facility supervision. In 2024, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park successfully completed four unannounced safety audits, securing an Exceeds Rating in every single evaluation. This extraordinary accomplishment is a testament to the tireless efforts, professionalism, and expertise of the team, whose commitment to safety remains second to none. Adam Du Plooy, General Manager of Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, expressed his immense pride in the achievement, stating: “We are truly honored to receive the Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for the second consecutive year. This recognition is a direct result of the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of every member of our staff. Safety is at the core of everything we do, and this award reaffirms our ongoing mission to provide the safest and most enjoyable experience for our guests. I could not be prouder of our team, and this achievement only fuels our drive to set even higher standards in aquatic safety.” The management extends its deepest gratitude and congratulations to every team member, whose unwavering dedication, expertise, and passion have been instrumental in securing this prestigious honor. As the park continues to uphold its legacy of safety excellence, this recognition stands as a milestone in its commitment to guest well-being, industry leadership, and world-class aquatic safety. Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park is part of Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, one of Qatar’s premier family leisure destinations. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, the resort offers a blend of world-class hospitality, exceptional dining experiences, and a wide array of recreational activities, including the water park. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort provides an unparalleled getaway for families, thrill-seekers, and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Unboxing the Magic: Behind the Scenes of Disney The Magic Box Ahead of its Doha Premiere this April
This spring, Disney The Magic Box arrives in Doha, offering a unique and immersive theatrical experience. Presented by Fever, the global live entertainment discovery platform, and Proactiv Entertainment, a renowned producer of large-scale productions, the event aligns with Visit Qatar’s mission to bring world-class, family-friendly entertainment to the region. A Visionary Theatrical Experience Disney The Magic Box was conceived by Felipe Gamba Paredes (Creative Producer, Co-Book Writer) and his creative team to offer an innovative take on Disney’s timeless stories. The production takes audiences on an emotional journey, rekindling the sense of wonder first sparked by Disney classics. With the support of Disney Theatrical Group, Gamba Paredes assembled a diverse team of artists, blending passionate Disney enthusiasts with fresh voices to reimagine the spirit of beloved characters. At the heart of this vision is Mickey Mouse, the mischievous, resourceful, and beloved character whose ingenuity and humor shaped Disney legacy. His presence serves as a reminder of the boundless imagination and playful spirit that have defined Disney storytelling for generations. Puppetry, Humor, and Emotional Storytelling Bringing Disney characters to life through masterful puppetry, stunning visuals, and dynamic theatrical techniques, Disney The Magic Box seamlessly weaves humor and heart into its storytelling. Laughter sets the stage for deeply moving moments, making iconic ballads like Colors of the Wind, Let It Go, and How Far I’ll Go even more poignant. This carefully crafted emotional arc lingers long after the curtain falls. A Journey of Self-Discovery At the heart of the production is Mara, a young woman who stumbles upon a mysterious, magical box. As she unravels its secrets, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, rediscovering the imagination and joy of childhood. Much like Alice in Wonderland, her adventure invites audiences to reflect on their own inner worlds, reigniting the magic of storytelling and adventure. Each song has been thoughtfully selected to mirror Mara’s emotional transformation, creating a narrative that blends nostalgia, self-reflection, and wonder. As audiences follow her journey, they too reconnect with the timeless magic of Disney. A Musical for All Generations One of the production’s most distinctive qualities is its universal appeal. Mara’s story resonates across generations, with the show’s soundtrack spanning decades—from Mary Poppins (1964) to Aladdin (1992) and modern favorites like Frozen and Moana. As she emerges from the audience at the start of the show, she draws viewers into a shared experience that speaks to children and adults alike. As Disney The Magic Box makes its highly anticipated debut in Doha, this collaboration underscores Qatar’s commitment to bringing exceptional global entertainment to the region. With Fever and Proactiv Entertainment at the helm, this extraordinary production promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Don’t miss this celebration of Disney’s enduring magic!Tickets for Disney The Magic Box are available at Virgin Megastore and Fever.For more details on Visit Qatar’s upcoming events, visit visitqatar.com. SHOW INFORMATION Venue: Al Mayassa Theatre OpeningDate: 3rd April 2025Running Time: 90 minutes (no intermission)Recommended Age: 6 years and above (No children under 3) Performance Schedule:Weekdays: Wednesdays, Thursdays – 17:30Fridays: 15:30, 20:00 Weekends: Saturdays – 14:00, 17:30 Ticket Prices: Starting at QAR 70
VCUarts Qatar and Ministry of Education and Higher Education Celebrate Winners of the 2024–2025 High School Fine Art Awards
(Doha, Qatar) VCUarts Qatar, in partnership with the Division of Art and Theater at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, proudly announces the winners of the 2024–2025 High School Fine Art Awards. This year’s competition was titled, “God is Beautiful and Loves Beauty”: A Dialogue on the Concept of Beauty in Arab and Islamic Culture. The Fine Art Awards recognize high school students seeking to explore beauty as it is expressed in nature, Islamic art, ethics, and the pursuit of knowledge. Dean Amir Berbić from VCUarts Qatar welcomed everyone saying, “This project is so important because it supports the development of new talent, young people with unlimited potential who are brave enough to show the world what they are capable of. This partnership represents an exciting step forward in nurturing the artistic talents of the next generation of art and design students here in Qatar.” The students, teachers, families, and friends were also welcomed and congratulated by Hemayan Al-Kaabi, Head of the Visual, Literary, and Drama Section, Department of Educational Supervision, Ministry of Higher Education, and Dr. Cherif Amor, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and professor at VCUarts Qatar. The awards were announced by Dr. Aissa Deebi, Director of the Painting + Printmaking department at VCUarts Qatar; and Dr. Amro Abouelhoda, Visual Education Standards Specialist, Office of The Assistant Undersecretary For Educational Affairs. Winning artworks are currently on display at the Saffron Hall at VCUarts Qatar, and will remain open to the public until April 3. The exhibition is open Saturday through Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Fridays and public holidays.
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay Appoints Hadi Faddoul as New Commercial Director
Faddoul brings nearly two decades of luxury hospitality experience to the role Doha, Qatar (March 2025) Hadi Faddoul has been named the new Commercial Director at the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay. In this role, he will oversee all strategic sales, marketing, and commercial initiatives, driving the hotel’s market positioning and revenue growth while leveraging its prime location in the central business district of Qatar’s capital city, West Bay, Doha. With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years in the luxury hospitality sector, Faddoul brings a wealth of expertise in sales strategy, business development, and commercial leadership. Prior to joining Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, he served as Multi-Property Director of Sales at Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha, where he played a pivotal role in launching both properties and implementing their pre-opening commercial strategies. His tenure also includes key leadership roles at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, where he was instrumental in driving revenue growth and expanding market presence. With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years in the luxury hospitality sector, Faddoul brings a wealth of expertise in sales strategy, business development, and commercial leadership. Prior to joining Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, he served as Multi-Property Director of Sales at Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha, where he played a pivotal role in launching both properties and implementing their pre-opening commercial strategies. His tenure also includes key leadership roles at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, where he was instrumental in driving revenue growth and expanding market presence. “Hadi’s deep understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape, coupled with his strategic mindset and passion for excellence, makes him the perfect fit to lead our commercial efforts,” said Elias J. Moukarzel, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay. “His leadership will be integral in reinforcing our position as a premier destination in Doha.” “I am honored to join the Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay team,” said Faddoul. “This is an exciting opportunity to elevate the hotel’s market presence and create extraordinary guest experiences that reflect the brand’s legacy of luxury and sophistication.” A graduate of E-Cornell University with a Master’s in Hospitality Management, Faddoul is known for his innovative sales and marketing strategies and ability to navigate dynamic market conditions. His appointment marks a new chapter for Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay as it continues to set new benchmarks in Qatar’s luxury hospitality landscape.
Ooredoo Qatar and QTSPBF Extend Winning Partnership
Setting the stage for yet another exciting edition of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel in April 2025 24 March 2025Doha, Qatar Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading telecommunications provider, has renewed its successful partnership with the Qatar Tennis, Squash, Padel, and Badminton Federation (QTSPBF), reinforcing its dedication to developing padel in Qatar and across the region. The agreement was signed by Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer of Ooredoo Qatar, and Tariq Zainal, Secretary-General of QTSPBF. This renewed collaboration comes ahead of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel 2025, scheduled from 14 to 19 April at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. Recognised as a Major tournament within the Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour, the event represents the highest level of professional padel, attracting the world’s best players and top teams to Doha. With each edition, the tournament has grown in both scale and prestige, further reiterating Qatar’s reputation as a hub for world-class sporting events. Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al-Thani, CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, said: “We are pleased to extend our partnership with QTSPBF, reaffirming our commitment to developing this rapidly growing sport in Qatar and across the region. At Ooredoo, we are committed to empowering the communities we serve through sports, and this renewed partnership will allow us to continue supporting the great game of padel in Qatar and beyond. We look forward to another exciting tournament and an even brighter future for the sport.” Tariq Zainal, Secretary-General of QTSPBF, said: “We are thrilled to extend our collaboration with Ooredoo as the title sponsor of the prestigious Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel 2025. This partnership reflects Ooredoo’s strong commitment to advancing sports in Qatar and supporting major events, further strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global sporting hub.” He added, “Our ongoing collaboration with Ooredoo is a key step towards elevating this tournament to even greater heights,” highlighting that this partnership will contribute to delivering an exceptional sporting experience for padel enthusiasts in Qatar and worldwide. Ooredoo has been a longstanding supporter of sports in Qatar, championing initiatives that bring communities together and inspire a new generation of athletes. This renewed commitment ensures that Qatar remains at the forefront of world padel, welcoming top-ranked players, elite teams, and passionate fans to yet another thrilling edition of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel.
Msheireb Downtown Doha Sees 30% Surge in Visitors and Growing Cultural Engagement During Ramadan
Doha, Qatar – 24 March 2025: Msheireb Downtown Doha experienced an unprecedented surge in visitors and cultural engagement during Ramadan, with footfall and participation figures surpassing the previous year. Between 1 and 19 March, it welcomed more than one million visitors — a 30% increase compared to 2024. Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Msheireb Properties, said: “Ramadan at Msheireb Downtown Doha continues to be a time of deep spiritual reflection, cultural enrichment, and community gathering. The growth in visitor numbers and engagement this year reflects how the downtown brings together tradition and modernity, offering meaningful experiences to all who visit.” “We are proud to see families and visitors from all over Qatar and the region come together to celebrate and share in the rich cultural heritage of our downtown during this special time,” he added. The Garangao celebrations on 14 and 15 March attracted thousands of families, with 1,800 children and parents enjoying a themed tram ride featuring traditional drummers and Garangao songs. Children received sweets and visited Msheireb Downtown Doha residents in traditional attire to share the festive spirit. Hosh Msheireb’s Garangao event on 15 March saw more than 2,000 visitors, doubling last year’s attendance. A highlight was the Kids’ Fashion Show, where children showcased traditional attire, and the winner received a family staycation at a prestigious Msheireb hotel. Furthermore, Hosh Msheireb remained a prominent community space, welcoming a total of 12,000 visitors. The venue hosted a variety of cultural and educational activities, including 1,000 visits to the Company House. The Kids’ Zone saw over 8,000 children engaged in its activities, while the “Back to Msheireb” exhibition attracted over 1,500 visitors, further contributing to the area’s significance as a hub for cultural exchange and learning. Msheireb Downtown Doha also reinforced its status as a spiritual hub, hosting esteemed scholars and reciters, including Sheikh Raad Al Kurdi, Sheikh Mohammed Al Awadhi, Sheikh Abdulaziz Sahim, and Mufti Ismail Menk, whose special sermon attracted over 3,000 attendees at the Eid Musala. Attendance at Isha and Tarawih prayers reached 70000 worshippers, marking a 75% increase from 2024. Meanwhile, the downtown’s appeal extended beyond cultural and spiritual activities, with its luxury offerings attracting significant interest. At Mandarin Oriental, Doha, Ramadan dining exceeded expectations, with Suhoor and Iftar drawing an exceptional turnout. Approximately 9,000 guests were served, marking a 54.5% increase and highlighting the growing demand for luxury dining in Msheireb Downtown Doha.
Place Vendôme Hosts Media Ghabga
Place Vendôme has recently hosted a memorable Ghabga, celebrating the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan in true Qatari tradition. The event, held at the Royal Suites of Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail, was a vibrant gathering that extended a heartfelt and joyous welcome to Qatar’s esteemed media community. Leading the occasion were Shane Eldstrom, CEO of United Developers, Sanjay Mehta, Group Marketing Director of United Developers , and Carole Sabbagha, Mall Manager, who highlighted the mall’s journey and achievements. Over the past three years, Place Vendôme has become a beacon of excellence, blending luxury with cultural authenticity. Through innovative experiences and meaningful partnerships, it has redefined the retail and lifestyle landscape in Qatar. Its efforts have not only earned international acclaim but have also played a pivotal role in positioning Qatar as a global destination for retail, luxury and lifestyle. This Ghabga was yet another testament to Place Vendôme’s commitment to creating unforgettable moments and celebrating the essence of Qatar.
