Qatar Winter Sports Programme Continues with Public Activities in Doha
The Qatar Winter Sports Committee, in collaboration with Years of Culture, will continue the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture Winter Sports Development Programme with a new series of public activities at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena from 24 to 26 May 2026. The May programme will invite families, young people, sports enthusiasts, and members of the wider community to experience a range of winter sports, including curling, ice hockey, skating, and short track. The activities have been designed to introduce winter sports to the public in an accessible and welcoming environment, while strengthening connections between Canadian, Qatari, and expat communities in Doha. Launched in April, the Winter Sports Development Programme will run throughout 2026 as part of the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture. The initiative aims to expand participation in winter sports in Qatar by focusing on grassroots engagement, youth development, coach education, and competitive opportunities. The programme also highlights the role of sport as a platform for cultural exchange, community participation, and long-term collaboration between Qatar, Canada, and Mexico. Public Winter Sports Activities in Doha The three-day programme will begin with a Curling Open House on Sunday, 24 May 2026, from 4:00 PM at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena. The session will offer introductory curling experiences for all ages, giving members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the sport in a friendly and informal setting. On Monday, 25 May 2026, the arena will host the Canada–Qatar Expat Ice Hockey Series from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Members of the public are invited to attend as spectators and experience the energy of ice hockey as part of the wider community sports programme. This will be followed by the Short Track & Skating Open House from 8:20 PM to 9:50 PM, offering open skating experiences and introducing participants to short track disciplines. The programme will conclude on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, with the Canadian–Qatar Expat Curling Game from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The friendly curling matches will bring together Canadian, Qatari, and expat communities as part of the season-long programme. Teams of four may take part, with one captain required to register the team at the registration desk on the day. Open to the Public Registration and attendance are open to all at the venue. Activities will be held on a first-come, first-served basis, with rotating slots available throughout the sessions. The programme reflects Qatar’s growing commitment to expanding sports participation beyond traditional disciplines, while creating inclusive spaces for cultural exchange and community engagement. As Doha continues to host major sports and cultural initiatives, the Winter Sports Development Programme adds a distinctive dimension to Qatar’s year-round calendar of public activities. It also supports the broader objectives of the Years of Culture initiative by using sport to build stronger people-to-people connections and promote shared experiences. Further details on upcoming events will be announced through the Years of Culture website and official social media channels.
Msheireb Museums Brings the Community Together for International Museum Day
Msheireb Museums brought the community together to mark International Museum Day 2026 with a special seminar highlighting the evolving role of museums as spaces for dialogue, learning, inclusion, and cultural connection. Held at Msheireb Museums in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the seminar was led by Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, member of the Executive Board of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and Director of the Cultural Advisor’s Office at Qatar Foundation. Titled “Museums: From Functional Role to the Social Dimension,” the session explored how museums have moved beyond their traditional function of preserving heritage to become active public platforms that support community engagement and social cohesion. The event formed part of global celebrations for International Museum Day 2026, held under the theme “Museums Uniting a Divided World.” This year’s celebration also coincided with the 80th anniversary of ICOM, reinforcing the organisation’s long-standing mission to position museums as drivers of cultural exchange, education, and sustainable development. Organised annually by ICOM since 1977, International Museum Day has become one of the world’s most widely observed cultural occasions. More than 37,000 museums across 158 countries and territories participate each year, using the occasion to reaffirm the importance of museums as trusted public spaces that promote learning, inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking on the occasion, Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, said International Museum Day offered an important opportunity to reflect on the changing role of museums in society. “International Museum Day provides an important opportunity to reflect on the growing role museums play within society today. At Msheireb Museums, we believe museums are not only spaces that preserve history, but also platforms that encourage dialogue, inspire learning, and strengthen social cohesion. Hosting this seminar aligns with our commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences that connect communities and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future,” he said. Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali also emphasised the need for museums to remain accessible, relevant, and responsive to the communities they serve. He noted that cultural institutions must continue adapting to changing audience expectations, particularly among younger generations. “Museums need to become more accessible and engaging for their communities, offering opportunities that truly reflect and respond to the spirit of the community. Otherwise, they will become outdated institutions, disconnected from their audiences and eventually left behind. Today’s exhibition operates in a highly competitive cultural and entertainment landscape, particularly for younger audiences. Therefore, they should focus on aligning their marketing plans with the evolving demands and expectations of the current era,” he said. As one of Qatar’s key cultural destinations, Msheireb Museums continues to play an important role in enriching the social and cultural life of Doha. Located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the museums take visitors through Qatar’s history, urban development, identity, and collective memory through four heritage houses and an active calendar of public programming. The International Museum Day seminar underlined the growing importance of museums as places where communities can come together, exchange ideas, and engage with both local heritage and global cultural conversations. It also highlighted the value of international collaboration in strengthening cultural understanding and building stronger community ties in an increasingly connected world. Through initiatives such as this, Msheireb Museums continues to support Qatar’s wider cultural vision by creating meaningful spaces for education, dialogue, and public engagement. The event reflected how museums in Qatar are contributing not only to heritage preservation, but also to community development, cultural awareness, and inclusive social progress.
QF’s BilAraby Initiative Discusses the Impact of Arabic in Publishing and Content at Doha International Book Fair
Panel session explores the evolution of ideas from traditional books to digital platforms Qatar Foundation’s BilAraby initiative participated in the 35th Doha International Book Fair with a panel discussion examining how Arabic ideas can move beyond traditional publishing and reach wider audiences through digital content, multimedia platforms and new forms of knowledge engagement. The session, titled “Arabic Between Publishing and Content: How Do We Expand the Impact of an Idea?”, was held at the exhibition’s Cultural Salon at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The event was organised under the supervision of the Qatari Forum for Authors as part of the book fair programme, which was organised by the Ministry of Culture – Qatar Cultural and Heritage Events Center. Expanding the Reach of Arabic Ideas BilAraby’s participation reflected Qatar Foundation’s broader commitment to strengthening the role of Arabic in cultural dialogue, knowledge production and digital innovation. The discussion focused on a key question: how can ideas created in Arabic reach broader and more diverse audiences, both inside and outside the Arabic-speaking world? Panelists explored the transformation taking place across the Arabic knowledge industry, particularly the shift from print-focused publishing to digital-first content. The conversation highlighted how Arabic can serve not only as a language of expression and preservation, but also as a powerful medium for producing knowledge, shaping public discourse and enabling new voices to emerge. From Books to Digital Knowledge Experiences A major theme of the session was the changing journey of an idea. While books remain a vital foundation for intellectual and cultural work, speakers noted that today’s audiences increasingly engage with ideas across podcasts, video content, social platforms, interactive formats and digital communities. The panel examined how publishers, writers and content creators can transform strong ideas into accessible and engaging knowledge experiences. This includes adapting Arabic content for different platforms while preserving depth, meaning and cultural relevance. The discussion also touched on the role of Arabic in promoting epistemic justice — ensuring that Arabic-speaking communities are not only consumers of knowledge, but also active producers and contributors to global conversations. Leading Voices in Arabic Media and Reading Culture The session was moderated by Souhila Abada, content supervisor and lead trainer at the BilAraby initiative. Speakers included Jaber Al Harami, writer and editor-in-chief of Al Sharq newspaper, and Fatima Al Malki, Director of the Qatar Reads initiative at Qatar National Library. Together, they discussed the responsibilities of media organisations, publishing houses, libraries and content creators in expanding the presence of Arabic knowledge across modern communication channels. Arabic as a Language of Innovation Commenting on BilAraby’s participation, Hisham Nourin, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives and Programs at Qatar Foundation, said the initiative’s presence at the Doha International Book Fair came from a firm belief in Arabic as a language capable of innovation and knowledge leadership. “The participation of the BilAraby initiative in the Doha International Book Fair stems from our firm belief that Arabic is a language of knowledge production and innovation, not just a means of expression. While a book is a vital starting point, the impact of an idea truly expands when it moves through podcasts, visual content, and digital platforms to reach a global audience,” he said. Interactive Engagement with the Public Alongside the panel discussion, BilAraby hosted interactive activities designed to encourage public participation. Visitors were invited to brainstorm new forms of Arabic content creation and explore how ideas can be transformed into impactful digital experiences. The activities supported BilAraby’s wider mission of creating a space where Arabic content, creativity and knowledge-sharing can evolve in line with the needs of modern audiences. Strengthening Qatar’s Cultural and Knowledge Economy BilAraby’s participation in the Doha International Book Fair reinforced Qatar’s growing role as a regional platform for culture, publishing and knowledge exchange. As Qatar continues to invest in education, media, research, creativity and digital transformation, initiatives such as BilAraby contribute to the development of a stronger Arabic content ecosystem — one that connects heritage with innovation and local identity with global reach. Updates on BilAraby and its 2026 gathering are available through the initiative’s official website: www.bilaraby.qa.
Place Vendôme Launches ‘Rooted in Resilience:’ A Community Campaign Celebrating Qatar’s Cultural Spirit Through the Power of the Sidra Tree
Qatar’s premier lifestyle destination unites community, culture, and collective hope through an immersive campaign that culminates in a landmark Sidra Tree Plantation Ceremony honouring exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of resilience Place Vendôme, one of Qatar’s leading luxury shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destinations, has launched ‘Rooted in Resilience,’ a community-focused campaign inspired by the Sidra tree — one of Qatar’s most powerful cultural symbols of endurance, unity and hope. The campaign was designed as a tribute to Qatar, its leadership and the resilient spirit that continues to shape the country’s social, cultural and community identity. Through an immersive visitor experience and a landmark Sidra Tree Plantation Ceremony, Place Vendôme brought together community, culture and collective hope in a meaningful celebration of strength and perseverance. A Campaign Inspired by the Sidra Tree Deeply rooted in Qatari heritage, the Sidra tree has long represented protection, stability, endurance and belonging. Native to the Gulf region, it is known for its ability to grow and survive in some of the harshest desert conditions, making it a fitting symbol for resilience in Qatar. Through ‘Rooted in Resilience,’ Place Vendôme transformed this cultural symbol into a shared community experience. At the heart of the campaign was a striking Sidra tree installation inside the destination, inviting visitors to take part by hanging personal wishes or messages on the tree, capturing the moment, and sharing their reflections across social media. The initiative encouraged guests to become part of a growing digital and physical tapestry of stories connected by hope, perseverance and cultural pride. The campaign’s guiding message captured its essence clearly: “At Place Vendôme, resilience isn’t just a word, it’s something that keeps growing here in Qatar.” Honouring Community Figures Through a Living Symbol The campaign reached a landmark moment with the ‘Rooted in Resilience’ Sidra Tree Plantation Ceremony, held at the iconic Dancing Fountains area on the Canal Floor at Place Vendôme. The evening opened with a fountain show before guests gathered for a ceremony that celebrated individuals whose journeys reflected resilience, perseverance and positive community impact. Each honouree planted a Sidra tree and placed a commemorative plaque bearing their name beside it, creating a lasting living tribute to their story and contribution. Place Vendôme’s leadership team also planted one large Sidra tree collectively, reinforcing the destination’s connection to the community it serves. The three individuals honoured during the ceremony were: Dr. Yousef Al Horr, Founding Chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development, recognised for his regional and global contribution to sustainable development and green building. Fahad Abdulrahman Badar, the first Arab mountaineer to summit both Mount Everest and Lhotse in a single expedition, symbolising determination and human endurance. Anas Abouqamer, known as TripleF, a Qatari influencer and content creator whose presence reflects the role of digital voices in shaping community engagement and cultural storytelling. More Than a Destination Commenting on the initiative, Sanjay Mehta, Group Director of Marketing at United Developers, said the campaign reflected Place Vendôme’s commitment to becoming more than a retail and lifestyle destination. “At Place Vendôme, we believe that the most meaningful spaces are those that reflect the spirit of the people within them. The ‘Rooted in Resilience’ campaign is a testament to our commitment to being more than a destination. We are part of this community, and this initiative is our way of honouring the extraordinary individuals who make it thrive. The Sidra tree, with all it represents for Qatar, felt like the most fitting symbol for that message,” he said. Carole Sabbagha, Mall Manager at Place Vendôme, said the campaign was created to resonate beyond the mall itself and become part of a wider community story. “This initiative is close to our hearts. We wanted to create a moment that resonates not just within our walls, but across the wider community. Every tree planted today carries a story of resilience, and it is our privilege to give those stories a permanent home here at Place Vendôme. We hope this becomes a lasting reminder that strength, in all its forms, is always worth celebrating,” she said. Community, Culture and Commerce As one of Qatar’s most celebrated lifestyle destinations, Place Vendôme continues to position itself at the intersection of luxury, culture, community and experience. The destination attracts more than 16 million visitors annually and has received major recognition, including World’s Most Beautiful Shopping Centre under the UNESCO Prix Versailles programme, as well as Best Mall 2024 and 2025 at the Shop Qatar Awards. Through ‘Rooted in Resilience,’ Place Vendôme has reinforced that leading lifestyle destinations in Qatar are no longer defined only by retail, entertainment and hospitality. They are increasingly becoming cultural platforms where community stories, national identity and shared values can be expressed. The campaign remains active across Place Vendôme’s social media channels, inviting the wider community to continue engaging with the initiative and contribute their own messages of hope, strength and cultural pride. In a country where resilience has become part of the national story, Place Vendôme’s Sidra tree campaign stands as a living reminder that growth, strength and unity remain deeply rooted in Qatar’s cultural spirit.
Msheireb Museums Hosts Qatar University Annual Architecture Exhibition
Msheireb Museums hosted Mimar: From Education to Impact, the annual architecture exhibition organised by Qatar University’s Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, bringing together the thesis projects and academic achievements of more than 40 undergraduate and graduating students. Held in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the exhibition highlighted the growing role of architectural education in shaping Qatar’s future built environment. The showcase reflected how emerging architects are responding to contemporary urban, environmental, and social challenges while remaining connected to Qatar’s cultural identity and heritage. The location of the exhibition added particular depth to the event. Msheireb Downtown Doha, widely recognised for its sustainable urban regeneration model, served as more than a venue. It became a living case study for students and visitors, demonstrating how research-led architecture, national heritage, modern technology, and sustainable design can come together in a contemporary city setting. Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, said the exhibition aligned closely with the purpose of the museums and the wider vision of Msheireb Downtown Doha. He noted that the museums provide a meaningful space for young architects to engage with the ideas, design values, and heritage-led thinking that shaped the district. The exhibition traced the development of students’ architectural thinking, from early coursework to final thesis projects. The displayed work explored themes such as sustainability, identity, community, environmental performance, urban infrastructure, digital tools, and practical design solutions for Qatar’s evolving built environment. Professor Mohammed Hussein, Dean of the College of Engineering at Qatar University, emphasised that architecture formed an important part of the wider engineering ecosystem. He said the students’ work demonstrated how creative ideas can be transformed into practical solutions through technical knowledge, scientific discipline, and an understanding of community needs. A key moment of the exhibition was the recognition of promising student projects by Ibrahim Al Jaidah, Chief Architect and Group CEO of the Arab Engineering Bureau. Through the AEB Excellence Award, now in its eighth cycle, Al Jaidah continued his support for young architectural talent in Qatar. Speaking about the exhibition, Al Jaidah highlighted that architecture is learned not only in classrooms, but also through direct engagement with cities, history, and communities. He praised the students for exploring important questions around sustainability, identity, and the human experience within built spaces. The projects were developed with the support of national and international partners, including the Ministry of Municipality, Qatar Museums, Caravane Earth, the Public Works Authority, OMA / AMO, and Herzog de Meuron. Their involvement reflected the exhibition’s broader commitment to research, collaboration, and design excellence. Mimar: From Education to Impact positioned Msheireb Downtown Doha as a platform for architectural dialogue in Qatar. The exhibition showed how the next generation of architects is preparing to contribute to Qatar’s urban development, combining heritage, innovation, and sustainability in ways that support the country’s long-term vision.
Everyone blends in.Ti7 stands out.
Mannai Automotive Group unveils the all-new BYD Ti7 2027 in Qatar, marking the vehicle’s first launch anywhere in the GCC. The launch took place at the BYD showroom in West Bay, Doha, in the presence of senior members of BYD’s global leadership, industry representatives, and invited guests. More than a vehicle reveal, the event reflected Qatar’s growing importance as a strategic market for next-generation mobility, hybrid innovation, and premium automotive experiences. For BYD and Mannai Automotive Group, the Ti7’s GCC debut in Qatar was a clear statement. The model was introduced not simply as a new mid-size SUV, but as a vehicle designed to challenge expectations around performance, practicality, technology, and value. Engineered to Challenge the Segment The BYD Ti7 2027 is powered by BYD’s DM-i Super Hybrid Platform, delivering a combined output of 483 HP and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. With a combined range of approximately 710 km, the vehicle moves between pure electric and hybrid drive with seamless efficiency, offering drivers flexibility across both city and long-distance journeys. Its capabilities extend well beyond urban roads. The Ti7 features 10 driving modes, including Tank Turn, Crawl Mode, Sand, Mud, Snow, and Mountain settings. Supported by AWD Dual Motor technology, underbody protection, and BYD’s DiSus intelligent suspension system, the SUV has been engineered to respond to changing road and terrain conditions — from Doha’s city streets to open desert landscapes. The vehicle also brings strong practicality to the mid-size SUV category. Cargo capacity starts at 1,000 litres, expanding to 1,800 litres with the second row folded, making the Ti7 a compelling option for families, professionals, and adventure-focused drivers. Chadi El Chammas, Vice President of BYD Qatar, said the launch reflected both the strength of the Qatari market and the ambition behind the model. “The BYD Ti7 sets a new standard for what a mid-size SUV can deliver. To bring its GCC debut to Qatar is a recognition of the sophistication and ambition of this market, and of the drivers who call it home. We are proud to introduce it here first, and proud of what it represents for the future of this brand in the region.” A Premium Cabin Built Around Everyday Use Inside, the Ti7 combines technology, comfort, and thoughtful design. A 15.6-inch rotating display anchors the cockpit, powered by BYD’s DiLink ecosystem. The system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, NFC phone key access, and over-the-air software updates, allowing the vehicle to continue evolving throughout ownership. The cabin also features a 50W ultra-fast wireless charger, 14 Dirac speakers, a panoramic roof, ventilated seats, and rear air conditioning. With seven exterior colour options and three interior palettes, the Ti7 offers a level of personalization designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Safety and driver confidence are also central to the model. The advanced driver assistance system includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking, supported by nine airbags distributed throughout the cabin. Cynthia Beayni, Marketing Manager of BYD Qatar, said the launch was designed to give the vehicle the platform it deserved. “Every decision behind tonight was guided by a single belief: that this car deserves to be experienced, not just announced. The Ti7 has a story worth telling. Qatar is the first place in this region to hear it, and that means something to every person who worked to bring it here.” A Price Point That Raises the Bar The BYD Ti7 2027 is now available in Qatar in two configurations: Deluxe Trim: from QAR 139,900Flagship Trim: from QAR 154,900 With hybrid engineering, strong performance, advanced technology, premium cabin features, and a combined range of approximately 710 km, the Ti7 enters the Qatari market with a value proposition that could reshape expectations in the mid-size SUV segment. For Qatar’s automotive market, the launch signals increasing competition in the premium hybrid and electric mobility space. As consumer interest grows around efficiency, technology, and long-range capability, models like the Ti7 reflect a broader shift in the region’s mobility landscape. Qatar as the Starting Point By choosing Qatar for the Ti7’s GCC debut, BYD and Mannai Automotive Group have placed the country at the centre of the model’s regional rollout. The decision reflects Qatar’s rising profile as a market where innovation, infrastructure, and premium consumer expectations are shaping the future of mobility. Mannai Automotive Group, one of Qatar’s most established automotive distributors, represents BYD in the Qatari market and provides customers with aftersales support, factory-trained technical teams, and genuine BYD parts throughout the ownership journey. As the BYD Ti7 2027 enters Qatar, it brings with it more than a new SUV option. It brings a statement about timing, market confidence, and the future of hybrid mobility in the GCC.
Lusail City to Host 2026 Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final for the Second Year Running
Visit Qatar and the Professional Triathletes Organisation have confirmed that Lusail City will host the 2026 Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final for the second consecutive year, reinforcing Qatar’s growing reputation as a global destination for elite sporting events, endurance festivals, and experiential travel. The championship will take place from 10 to 12 December 2026, bringing together professional triathletes, amateur athletes, community runners, families, and sports enthusiasts for a multi-day festival of endurance and lifestyle experiences. Following the success of the event’s inaugural edition in Qatar in 2025, the return of the T100 World Championship Final reflects the strong public engagement and international appeal generated by the race. It also strengthens Lusail’s position as one of Qatar’s most dynamic venues for major global events. The 2026 edition will feature a broad programme designed for different ages and fitness levels. Events will include the Open T100 race, Sprint Triathlon, T100 Age Group World Championships, and 1km and 5km community runs, making the championship weekend accessible to both elite competitors and the wider public. As the closing stage of the wider 2026 T100 Triathlon World Tour, the Qatar final will bring the world’s leading professional triathletes to Lusail after a season of competition across major international destinations. The tour runs from March through to December, ending with the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championships. Athletes competing in the signature T100 format will complete a demanding course that begins with a 2km swim in the Arabian Gulf, followed by an 80km cycling route through Lusail’s iconic streets, before finishing with an 18km run across Lusail Plaza and Boulevard. Beyond the race itself, the championship weekend will feature an immersive event village offering family entertainment, wellness activations, food experiences, and spectator activities. The festival-style format is designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for participants, residents, and visitors, while positioning the event as more than a professional sporting competition. For Qatar, the return of the T100 final carries strategic significance. Major international events continue to play an important role in the country’s tourism growth, supporting hotel occupancy, destination visibility, visitor engagement, and local business activity. Events of this scale also contribute to Qatar’s long-term ambition to become a year-round hub for sport, culture, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. The selection of Lusail further highlights Qatar’s world-class infrastructure and its ability to host major global sporting events in modern, accessible urban environments. With its waterfront setting, wide boulevards, integrated transport links, and landmark public spaces, Lusail offers a strong platform for international endurance sport. The championship also supports Visit Qatar’s wider strategy to expand the country’s sports tourism calendar and attract global audiences through high-impact events. By combining professional sport with community participation and destination experiences, the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final adds another layer to the country’s evolving tourism proposition. As Qatar prepares to welcome athletes and visitors in December 2026, the event is expected to further elevate Lusail’s global profile and strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading Middle Eastern destination for international sports, wellness tourism, and large-scale community experiences. Participation details and registration information are available through the official T100 Qatar Registration Page.
Qatar Jewellery Designers Take Center Stage at Exclusive Doha Showcase
Qatar’s growing luxury and creative economy was placed firmly in the spotlight as a curated jewellery showcase at Ned’s Club Doha brought together some of the country’s most promising designers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders under one roof. The two-day private event, organised by Qatar-based premium public relations agency Creatives Amplified, marked the launch of “Taking Back the City” — a new CSR-driven initiative focused on supporting local brands, creative entrepreneurship, and the expansion of Qatar’s design and cultural sectors. Held from May 10 to 11 at the prestigious Ned’s Club Doha, the event transformed the members’ venue into an immersive luxury exhibition space featuring bespoke collections from a range of Qatar-based jewellery brands and independent designers. The showcase provided an exclusive platform for local creatives to engage directly with media, business leaders, collectors, and influential members of Doha’s luxury and hospitality community. The initiative was designed not only as an exhibition but also as a strategic networking and knowledge-sharing platform to strengthen Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and elevate homegrown creative talent in the luxury market. Speaking during the event, Harriet Abiodun, Founder and PR Director of Creatives Amplified, said the initiative was created to reignite attention around Doha’s creative economy while giving greater visibility to local designers shaping the future of Qatar’s luxury sector. She emphasised that the showcase served as both a celebration of established legacy brands and an introduction to emerging names redefining the city’s jewellery landscape through innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling. The event also highlighted the growing collaboration between Qatar’s hospitality, business, and creative sectors. Laurentia Meredith, Director of Membership at Ned’s Club Doha, noted that supporting local talent and creative excellence remains an important part of the club’s broader commitment to Doha’s evolving cultural and entrepreneurial environment. Beyond the exhibition itself, the showcase incorporated a series of expert-led discussions exploring the heritage, evolution, and future of jewellery design and trade in Qatar. The opening day featured a panel discussion moderated by media expert Narges Raiss, with contributions from designer and educator Mariam AlMajed, luxury business strategist Aljazi Makki, and cultural expert and collector Rashid Al Murikhi. The discussion explored the intersection of tradition, craftsmanship, business strategy, and modern luxury within Qatar’s jewellery sector. On the second day, Kimberly Labs — Qatar’s first diamond and gemstone authentication laboratory — delivered a presentation focused on gemstone verification, authentication standards, and smart jewellery investment practices. Guests were also offered live, on-site evaluations of their personal jewellery pieces, creating an interactive educational experience that blended luxury with consumer awareness and professional expertise. Production partner Spirit Events played a key role in shaping the exhibition environment, designing a sophisticated infrastructure that reflects the premium quality of the showcased collections while encouraging meaningful interaction among guests, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals. The strong response from invited attendees reinforced growing interest in Qatar’s luxury entrepreneurship and creative industries, with many guests praising the event’s combination of business networking, cultural dialogue, and curated craftsmanship. As Qatar continues to invest in its knowledge-based economy and creative industries under Qatar National Vision 2030, initiatives such as “Taking Back the City” are emerging as important platforms to empower local businesses, support SMEs, and strengthen the country’s position as a regional hub for luxury, design, and entrepreneurship. The successful debut of the jewellery-focused edition also signals broader ambitions for the initiative, with future editions expected to spotlight additional sectors across Qatar’s growing creative economy. Image Copyright: Lavinia L. Costerbosa
QIA and Goldman Sachs Sign Landmark MoU Targeting $25 Billion Investment, Strengthening Qatar’s Global Financial Influence
In one of the most significant financial announcements of 2026, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Goldman Sachs Asset Management have signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding their strategic partnership and unlocking a combined investment target of $25 billion. The agreement marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s growing stature as a regional and global financial hub, reinforcing the nation’s long-term strategy to drive economic diversification, attract foreign investment, and strengthen private-sector growth. According to a statement released by QIA, the sovereign wealth fund intends to commit capital across Goldman Sachs’ flagship funds, innovative alternative investment strategies, and selected co-investment opportunities. The partnership expands QIA’s role as an anchor investor across multiple Goldman Sachs Asset Management platforms, giving Qatar preferential access to global deal flow in future-forward sectors, including: This move solidifies Qatar’s position as a leading institutional investor in high-growth global markets. As part of the expanded cooperation, Goldman Sachs will enhance its presence in Doha, building out its capabilities as a strategic asset management hub for the region. Through its global Value Accelerator network, Goldman Sachs will support Qatar in: This partnership aligns closely with Qatar’s ambitions to become a regional leader in alternative investments, innovation-led industries, and financial services. Commenting on the agreement, Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “QIA is pleased to partner with Goldman Sachs in this landmark agreement. It provides QIA with premium deal flow in sectors critical to our investment strategy, including AI, fintech, digital infrastructure and private credit. This partnership extends beyond capital deployment and reinforces Doha’s position as a regional financial center.” He further noted that Goldman Sachs’ commitment to expanding its Doha presence will support job creation, specialized skills development, and long-term economic value for Qatar. David Solomon, Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs, emphasized Qatar’s strong momentum: “Qatar is on an exciting path of economic diversification, developing its capital markets, strengthening its talent base, and expanding its ecosystem of national champions. This creates substantial opportunity to widen Qatar’s global connectivity and impact as a multi-faceted investment partner.” Goldman Sachs stands among the world’s leading alternative investment managers, with: Its Value Accelerator Network will now work closely with Qatari institutions and the wider ecosystem to build enduring, globally competitive businesses. The QIA–Goldman Sachs MoU represents more than a financial partnership—it positions Doha as a rising global center for asset management, sovereign investment, and cross-border financial collaboration. With a $25 billion target fueling this strategic alliance, Qatar is poised to accelerate high-impact investments and strengthen its role in shaping the future of global finance.
GSMA MWC25 Doha: Final Call for Registration as Global Tech Leaders Prepare to Converge in Qatar
The countdown has begun — and Doha is officially set to host one of the most influential technology gatherings in the world.MWC25 Doha, held on 25–26 November at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), marks a historic first for the region as industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and more than 100 global start-ups prepare to shape the future of digital transformation. Organised by the GSMA, in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), MWC25 Doha will serve as a defining moment for the Middle East and North Africa’s technology, connectivity, and innovation ecosystem. The event directly supports Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, aligning global expertise with the country’s national ambitions. A Global Milestone: 4YFN Makes Its MENA Debut For the first time in the region, 4YFN — the world-renowned start-up platform — will take the stage at MWC25 Doha, bringing together over 100 high-potential start-ups that are shaping the future of fintech, deeptech, health tech, climate tech, and more. Key highlights include: This dynamic space will serve as a powerful catalyst for investment, collaboration, deal-making, and cross-border partnerships. A Showcase of Vision: Themes That Define the Future MWC25 Doha is built around three powerful themes: Agility Robotics, Beyon, Cohere, Dell Technologies, e&, ITU, Korea International Trade Association, Kosmos Foundation, MCIT Qatar, NetoAI, Snoonu, STC Group, Tech Barcelona, Telefonica, UNDP, VEON — and many more. Key sessions will explore topics such as Agentic AI, Smart Mobility, AI-powered Telco strategies, 5G Futures, Satellite & NTN, Fintech, Commerce, and Open Gateway. An Innovation Floor Unlike Any Other With 230+ exhibitors and sponsors, attendees can expect immersive experiences, including: The Pavilion will highlight Qatar’s most ambitious digital transformation projects and advancements toward a knowledge-based, innovative economy. Smart Policy, Smart Cities, Smart Leadership MWC25 Doha will also host flagship programs that shape global digital strategy: GSMA Ministerial Programme An exclusive, invitation-only forum uniting ministers and regulators to advance digital governance, spectrum policy, and investment strategies for the world’s future digital economy. GSMA Digital Leaders Programme Making its Middle East debut, this high-level gathering examines how AI is transforming infrastructure, business models, and ecosystem innovation. Smart City Expo Doha Under the theme “Beyond Connectivity: A Digital Solutions Pathway to a Smarter, Thriving Future,” the expo will spotlight global thought leaders from MIT Media Lab and Microsoft across five key tracks. Final Call for Registration With deal-making, innovation showcases, global announcements, and high-level policy discussions, MWC25 Doha is set to be one of the most influential technology events ever hosted in the region. This is your final call — Doha is ready. The future is ready. Are you?
