GSMA MWC25 Doha Set to Transform Qatar into a Global Innovation Hub
Over 200 Visionary Speakers, 200 Exhibitors, and 60+ Countries to Gather in Doha this November The GSMA and Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT Qatar) have unveiled new details about the highly anticipated GSMA MWC25 Doha, which will take place on 25–26 November 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). As the first-ever MWC event in the MENA region, MWC25 Doha will be a cornerstone of Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, setting the stage for groundbreaking dialogue and collaboration across technology, policy, and innovation. The two-day event will bring together: Positioning Qatar at the Heart of Global Digital Transformation At a press briefing held at DECC, the GSMA welcomed H.E. Mrs Reem Mohammed Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary of Digital Industry Affairs at MCIT Qatar, and Mr Khalid Aljumaily, Public Relations and Communication Director at MCIT Qatar, alongside GSMA CMO Lara Dewar and GSMA Ltd. CEO John Hoffman. His Excellency Mr Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasised: “Hosting the inaugural MWC25 Doha marks a historic milestone for Qatar and the region. It aligns with our mission to advance digital transformation under the Digital Agenda 2030 and the Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning Doha as a global meeting point for technology, innovation, and collaboration.” Strategic Partnerships to Drive Local and Global Impact The press conference also witnessed the signing of five key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the GSMA and significant national and international partners, including the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), Qatar University, Media City Qatar, Ooredoo, and Vodafone, to ensure the success and long-term impact of MWC Doha. A World-Class Lineup of Exhibitors and Themes The exhibition will feature technology leaders such as Cisco, Dell, Google Cloud, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Huawei, Mannai, Microsoft, Nokia, Ooredoo, PwC, Qatar University, VEON, Vodafone, ZTE, and Meeza, Qatar’s leading data center and AI services provider. According to Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA: “We are thrilled to bring MWC to Doha — a city at the forefront of digital transformation. With its strong investment ecosystem and progressive innovation policies, Qatar is the perfect host for our first MWC in the region.” Exploring the Future of AI, Connectivity, and Digital Economies Spanning three halls, MWC25 Doha will spotlight the themes driving the next wave of digital evolution: The event will also debut 4YFN (Four Years From Now) — MWC’s official startup platform — alongside the GSMA Ministerial Programme, the GSMA Digital Leaders Programme, and Smart City Expo Doha, which is organised in collaboration with Fira de Barcelona. Registration Now Open General registration for MWC25 Doha is now open.🔗 Visit www.mwcdoha.com/passes to secure your place at this landmark event redefining the digital future of the MENA region.
Eat Spain Drink Spain Debuts in Qatar – A Culinary Journey Like No Other
From Andalusian olive oil to Valencian paella, Spain’s finest flavours arrive in Doha this October! For the first time ever, Eat Spain Drink Spain is coming to Qatar, bringing the heart of Spanish gastronomy to Doha’s luxury hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and gourmet stores. October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar Over 15 days of flavour and culture, food lovers will discover the richness, authenticity, and creativity that make Spanish cuisine one of the world’s most celebrated. What to Expect Spanish-Inspired Menus & Tastings – Specially curated dishes and wine pairings by top chefs.Authentic Ingredients – Taste Manchego cheese (D.O.P.), Andalusian olive oil, Cantabrian seafood, bomba rice for paella, and more.Exclusive Culinary Events – From gourmet dinners to supermarket promotions, immerse yourself in the best of Spain.Cultural Activations – Experience Spain’s traditions and artistry woven into every bite. More Than a Food Festival – A Gateway to Spain Eat Spain Drink Spain is more than a campaign – it’s a celebration of Spain’s culture, innovation, and excellence in gastronomy. With past editions in the UK, Germany, the USA, and Singapore, the event has captivated audiences worldwide. Now, for the first time in the Middle East, it’s Qatar’s turn to savour the experience. Words from the Ambassador H.E. Dr. Álvaro Renedo Zalba, Ambassador of Spain to Qatar, shares:“Spanish gastronomy is a proud hallmark of our culture and a key component of our soft power. I have no doubt that visitors to Spain, and now Qatar, will be captivated by its richness and diversity.” Join the Celebration Whether you’re a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply curious about world-class cuisine, this is your chance to:Discover award-winning Spanish products.Network with culinary experts.Enjoy unforgettable dining experiences in Doha. Don’t just eat. Don’t just drink. Experience Spain.Mark your calendars: October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar
Project Qatar 2025
Innovation & Sustainability: Qatar’s Path to 2030 26–29 May 2025 | Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) Project Qatar 2025, the nation’s longest-running and most influential international construction and building materials exhibition, returns with a bold focus on innovation, sustainability, and smart manufacturing. Organised by IFP Qatar, the 21st edition brings together over 200 local and international companies, 70+ thought leaders, and thousands of industry professionals for four days of unmatched networking, collaboration, and transformation. Project Qatar 2025 is more than a trade show—it’s a strategic gateway into Qatar’s rapidly evolving construction and infrastructure sectors, aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030. The exhibition showcases next-generation technologies and sustainable solutions across: In support of the Qatar National Manufacturing Strategy 2024–2030, this dedicated zone introduces cutting-edge solutions in: This initiative aims to localize production, attract global partnerships, and position Qatar as a regional manufacturing hub. Project Qatar 2025 proudly welcomes official delegations, government partners, and business leaders from across the globe, including: A comprehensive conference series will spotlight innovation and progress across: In partnership with Qatar University, Project Qatar 2025 places a strong focus on youth engagement. The final day is dedicated to showcasing student-led projects and emerging talent in the fields of smart city development, environmental technology, and AI-driven innovation. #ProjectQatar2025 #QatarConstruction #SustainabilityInQatar #SmartManufacturing #InnovationInQatar #QatarTradeShow #Qatar2030Vision #Industry40Qatar #ConstructionExpoQatar #GreenTechMiddleEast
Visit Qatar Announces Lusail Sky Festival and Eid Al-Fitr Activities
Visit Qatar in collaboration with Qatari Diar announces the Lusail Sky Festival, the largest event of its kind in the region, will take place from April 3rd to 5th 2025, 16:00 – 22:00, coinciding with Eid Al-Fitr celebrations. Taking place at Lusail’s iconic Al Saad Plaza, where visitors can enjoy a unique visual experience in an open-air setting, with free activities available to all. The Lusail Sky Festival will showcase an array of aerial performances, including international aerobatics, skydiving, skywriting demonstrations, and high-speed jet displays. Audiences will witness planes creating intricate formations with coloured smoke, laser displays, and aerial pyrotechnics, alongside spectacular drone shows. Adding to the spectacle, the festival will include skydiving demonstrations, nightly laser and fireworks displays synchronised with music and light effects, and an extraordinary drone show featuring over 3,000 illuminated drones and 150 aircraft equipped with pyrotechnics, creating mesmerising imagery in the night sky. Beyond the aerial performances, visitors can enjoy a diverse entertainment programme on the ground, including a food zone with 14 food trucks and carts offering a variety of culinary options, as well as an entertainment theatre featuring live performances and family-friendly activities. More events and attractions during Eid Al-Fitr A variety of music and entertainment events are in store during Eid Al Fitr, featuring both established and emerging talents. U Finio will host a concert on 4th April, featuring Abdulaziz Al-Dweihi and Hisham Mahrous, while Doha Golf Club will present performances by rising star Too Late, and renowned artist Nick Carter, offering a rich and diverse musical experience. Additionally, the Disney-inspired musical theatre production, The Magic Box, will run from April 3rd to 12th, 2025 at the Qatar National Convention Centre, bringing another dimension of entertainment to the Eid celebrations. Must-visit attractions-The Pearl-Qatar, a key destination with marina views, luxury retail, and fine dining. Nearby, Gewan Island features Qatar’s longest air-conditioned pedestrian walkway and holds two Guinness World Records for the largest outdoor air-conditioned shopping mall and the largest outdoor interactive lighting canopy. In Al Waab, West Walk integrates retail, dining, and year-round events, with a pedestrian promenade featuring innovative cooling technology. For cultural experiences, the Mina District offers waterfront cafés and pastel-coloured buildings in a picturesque setting. Katara Cultural Village remains a key attraction, featuring artistic exhibitions, open-air performances, and scenic beachfront areas. Qatar’s beaches provide a mix of relaxation and adventure. Sealine Beach in Mesaieed offers swimming, camel rides, and desert safaris. Umm Bab Beach on the western coast provides a tranquil camping experience. Doha Beach Club offers luxury amenities and dining, while Doha Sands Beach features a vibrant leisure atmosphere. West Bay Beach combines an urban skyline with a relaxing shoreline and premium services. Residents can take advantage of exclusive offers from Visit Qatar, with discounts across various categories, including food and drink, beauty and spa, health and fitness, leisure and entertainment, hotel stays, and retail services. To access these exclusive offers, visit the link https://visitqatar.com/content/dam/visitqatar/events-calendar/march-2025-events/eid-2025/EID-Alfitr-Offers-2025.pdf.
All-New Nissan KICKS Takes Center Stage with a Thrilling Regional Launch
Doha, Qatar, February 26, 2025–Nissan has recently introduced the 2025 Nissan KICKS to the region with a high impact launch at The Sevens Stadium, Dubai. Hosted under the theme “GO EPIC”, the venue was transformed into an urban-inspired stage, bringing together over 200 guests including Nissan’s regional partners, media, automotive experts and select customers. Designed for individuals who dare to stand out, the KICKS introduces a progressive design, advanced technology, and dynamic driving performance that sets a new benchmark in its segment. Nissan transformed the stadium’s grounds into a custom-built automotive arena, featuring a life-sized track encircling the central stage. The reveal unfolded with the “KICKS Drop,” a seamless fusion of digital illusion and reality, where the all-new Nissan KICKS appeared to plummet onto the stage before transitioning into a real-world spectacle, reinforcing the model’s urban, street-style identity. Additionally, two all-new KICKS vehicles drove onto the platform in synchronized motion, amplifying the sense of arrival, and then crossed the platform, giving attendees their first look at the region’s newest crossover. The experience continued with immersive touchpoints, including vibrant parkour performances that infused the night with the raw energy of street culture, tying into the KICKS’ bold, individualistic identity. Taking the stage on the opening night, Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President & President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan & INFINITI, set the tone for the evening, sharing Nissan’s vision for the next-generation KICKS. He said, “The all-new KICKS embodies our bold vision to ‘Defy Ordinary,’ offering a blend of style, innovation, and versatility that is truly unmatched. Since its debut in the Middle East, the KICKS has empowered drivers to express their individuality, and this new generation takes it even further. With a daring new design, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional performance and fuel efficiency, the all-new KICKS is built for those who live vibrantly and go epic every day.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “The all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS embodies the spirit of innovation and modernity that Qatar’s vibrant urban landscape demands. With its bold design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance, the KICKS is set to redefine the compact crossover segment in the Qatari market. It offers unparalleled value for those seeking a bold entry into this category.” Following the reveal, Charl Grobler, General Manager, Product Marketing at Nissan Middle East, took the stage to present an in-depth breakdown of the KICKS’ latest advancements, highlighting the vehicle’s refined design and innovative technologies, showcasing how the new powertrain enhances performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. He emphasized how the vehicle continues to reflect Nissan’s commitment to delivering a bold, dynamic driving experience while offering a high level of personalization for those looking to express their individuality. The next morning, the excitement shifted from spectacle to experience as media and automotive enthusiasts took the wheel of the all-new Nissan KICKS for an exclusive ride-and-drive journey from The Sevens Stadium to Dubai Design District (D3). More than just a test drive, the route was carefully designed to showcase every aspect of the KICKS—its agility through urban streets, its power and stability on open roads, and its intuitive technology in real-world conditions. Settling into the Zero Gravity™ seats, drivers immediately noticed the comfort designed for long drives, while the panoramic sunroof framed the Dubai skyline. As they navigated the city, ProPILOT came into action, assisting with smooth acceleration and braking, reinforcing a sense of confidence and ease. The immersive dual 12.3-inch digital display provided clear navigation and connectivity, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ kept drivers seamlessly linked to their playlists and calls. A highlight of the drive was the Reverse Challenge at The Sevens Stadium, where drivers tested the KICKS’ suite of cameras and sensors, effortlessly maneuvering tight spaces using advanced 360-degree visibility and intelligent safety features. Whether accelerating down a straight or while executing driving maneuvers, the KICKS demonstrated its balance of power and precision, with the 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine delivering 142 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque, seamlessly paired with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT transmission for smooth responsiveness. The all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS expands the brand’s diverse SUV lineup. Offering a dynamic new choice in the compact crossover segment, the KICKS is available in four distinct grades (S, SV, SV+, and SL) each designed to cater to different lifestyles. For those looking to make an even bolder statement, the model comes in 15 striking exterior hues, including six two-tone options, allowing for greater personalization. Customers can visit and experience the all-new 2025 Nissan KICKS at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. showrooms – the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar – conveniently located across Qatar. For more information or to book your test drive, visit showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.
Alfardan Premier Motors celebrates remarkable success in Jaguar Land Rover MENA Everyday Legend competition
Doha, Qatar – 20 February 2025: Alfardan Premier Motors Co., the official retailer of Jaguar Land Rover in the State of Qatar, proudly celebrates a momentous achievement as its sales and service team excel in the prestigious JLR MENA Everyday Legend competition. This outstanding recognition reaffirms Alfardan Premier Motors dedication to excellence, customer satisfaction, and continuous professional development, solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury automotive sector. The competition brought together the finest JLR professionals from across the MENA region, testing their knowledge, expertise, and commitment to world-class service. Alfardan Premier Motors very own Abdelmonem Nasr and Bassel Monther stood out among the region’s top talent, with Abdelmonem securing 2nd runner-up in the Service Advisor category, demonstrating exceptional technical expertise and dedication to customer care. Meanwhile, Bassel achieved 1st runner-up among all Sales Executives, showcasing remarkable insight and the ability to deliver tailored luxury automotive solutions. This incredible success is a testament to Alfardan Premier Motors investment in its people, equipping them with the skills and training necessary to not only meet but surpass global luxury automotive standards. The company’s ongoing commitment to excellence ensures that every customer experiences the highest level of service, from the showroom to after-sales support. And by engaging in such prestigious competitions, Alfardan Premier Motors benchmarks its capabilities against regional and global industry leaders, further solidifying its reputation as a premier JLR retailer dedicated to excellence. Nasr Jairoudi, General Manager for Alfardan Premier Motors, expressed his deep pride in the team’s achievements, stating: “At Alfardan Premier Motors, excellence is at the core of everything we do, from sales to after-sales service. The recognition of Abdelmonem and Bassel in the JLR MENA Everyday Legend competition is a testament to their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Their success reinforces our ongoing investment in talent development and our dedication to upholding the highest standards in luxury automotive retail.” This prestigious recognition further strengthens Alfardan Premier Motors reputation as a premier JLR retailer, ensuring that customers in Qatar receive unparalleled service and expertise. With a steadfast commitment to continuous growth and innovation, Alfardan Premier Motors remains dedicated to setting new benchmarks in luxury automotive excellence. Alfardan Premier Motors remains steadfast in its commitment to continuous investment in its people, ensuring that its team is equipped with the latest knowledge, skills, and training to uphold the highest standards of customer care and performance. This aligns with JLR’s global mission of setting new benchmarks in luxury, innovation, and service excellence. As the company celebrates this milestone, it looks forward to even greater achievements, continuing to raise the bar and reaffirm its commitment to delivering an exceptional ownership experience for every JLR customer in Qatar.
Visit Qatar to Host Michael Bublé’s Debut Live Concerts This May
Visit Qatar is set to welcome global music icon Michael Bublé for the first time in Qatar, as he takes the stage for two live performances on May 23rd and 24th at Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Early bird sales are available from February 19th to 28th with general ticket sales opening to the public on April 1st, 2025. This highly anticipated concert is part of Qatar’s dynamic calendar of events, which features world-class exhibitions, a variety of live performances, and major sporting competitions, catering to a diverse audience. The Grammy Award-winning artist Michael Bublé, known for his signature blend of pop and jazz, will bring his unique live performances to a diverse audience in Doha, one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. Al Mayassa Theatre, a premier venue designed to host theatrical and musical productions, will provide concertgoers with an immersive experience. With a capacity of over 2,000 and a state-of-the-art sound system, the theatre offers the ideal setting for this event. Early bird tickets for Michael Bublé’s concerts are now available at https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa/music/28863/michaelbuble?presales=MjAyNS0wMi0xNCAxNDo0OTowOV9tOXI6 and https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/97792/michael-buble-in-doha
Qatar Tourism Concludes the 51st Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East and the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” Conference
The State of Kuwait has been appointed as the Chair of the Regional Committee for the 2025-2027 term, and The State of Qatar has been appointed as the First Vice-Chair of the committee. Qatar Tourism hosted the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East on February 12, 2025, with high-level delegations from thirteen member states. The meeting focused on evaluating achievements, analysing sector trends, and identifying key priorities for boosting tourism in the region. The UN Tourism confirmed that the Middle East had the fastest global recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in 2024. The meeting emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. Kuwait was appointed to serve as Chair of the Regional Commission for the 2025-2027 period, with Qatar appointed as First Vice-Chair and Iraq as Second Vice-Chair. Qatar’s appointment as First Vice-Chair reflects its growing leadership in the tourism sector and its active role in driving regional and global tourism development. The meeting also confirmed that Kuwait will host the next session (the 52nd Regional Meeting) in 2026, underscoring the continued regional collaboration to promote sustainable tourism development in the Middle East. Additionally, Qatar Tourism hosted the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry After the World Cup” conference on February 13, 2025. The event brought together experts and specialists to discuss the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the region, focusing on how to leverage the momentum from large-scale events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ to boost sports tourism. The conference highlighted Qatar’s successes in this area and the role of major investments in sports clubs and global athletes in reinforcing the Middle East’s position as a prominent sports and tourism hub globally. The conference also explored the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience in the region, the collaboration between Qatar and neighbouring countries to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role of sports in promoting the destination’s brand across the region, drawing from Qatar’s successful experiences and lessons learned. These events reinforce Qatar Tourism’s commitment to enhancing the country’s status as a global tourism hub, hosting major events, and developing innovative strategies to support sustainable tourism. This is in line with Qatar’s broader vision to drive economic growth and strengthen tourism as a vital sector for the future.
Qatar International Food Festival 2025 kicks off with an unforgettable culinary showcase
Visit Qatar inaugurates the 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) with a grand opening ceremony at Hotel Park today, kicking off a ten-day long celebration of gastronomy and entertainment. The festival will feature over 100 local vendors, 27 international restaurants and cafes, and plenty of entertainment shows. QIFF 2025 is set to be the largest and most exciting edition to date. The festival promises an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing global and local flavours, while also reflecting Qatar’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for cultural exchange and tourism. During his opening remarks, Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said, emphasised QIFF’s significance in positioning Qatar as a premier global destination for gastronomy and hospitality. He said: “The Qatar International Food Festival has evolved into a global platform that celebrates culinary excellence while reflecting Qatar’s rich cultural diversity and commitment to innovation. Its continued success underscores the pivotal role of the hospitality and dining sectors in advancing Qatar’s tourism landscape, serving as a key driver in delivering world-class experiences to visitors and residents alike.” Among the highlights of this year’s festival is the experience of the epitome of culinary excellence at the Michelin Guide Village, where you can savour exclusive creations from some of the world’s finest Michelin-star chefs. QIFF Ring, which is a competition Arena, where visitors will witness chefs cook and compete on centre stage. In addition, a Cooking Studio will welcome renowned chefs from both Qatar and abroad, hosting interactive workshops and cooking classes. For those seeking a truly unique experience, Dinner in the Sky offers an exhilarating dining adventure suspended 50 meters above the ground, providing guests with stunning views of the entire festival and the Doha skyline. This year’s festival expansive location is divided into immersive districts, each offering unique dining experiences and interactive activities. The Flavours within Qatar section celebrates Qatar’s rich culinary landscape and showcases both traditional street food and fine dining, while the Latin Food District offers authentic dishes such as tacos, empanadas, and ceviche, providing a taste of Latin America. The International Flavours District brings together global street food and gourmet flavours, while the Healthy Corner focuses on plant-based and sustainable cuisine. The Coffee & Bakeries Corner serves as a haven for coffee and dessert enthusiasts, offering artisanal coffee and a wide range of sweet treats. The QIFF VIP Area provides an exclusive, luxurious dining experience with gourmet food, personalised service, and top-tier decor, offering a refined atmosphere for guests seeking a premium experience. Families are also invited to enjoy daily movie screenings, kids’ workshops within QIFF Juniors, and other engaging outdoor activities, ensuring entertainment for visitors of all ages. QIFF 2025 runs until February 22nd, offering visitors an unmissable chance to indulge in the world’s finest flavours, explore new culinary trends, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere that has become synonymous with this signature event. Visitors attending QIFF are advised to park at the DECC parking facility and access Hotel Park via the designated tunnel. Alternatively, those using the DECC Metro Station can reach Hotel Park with a short walk. For more information and updates, visit https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/qatar-international-food-festival follow @qiff.qa on social media.
Dolce&Gabbana collaborates with AlFardan Jewellery to present a special watch collection
Dolce&Gabbana expands its range of precious items with a special collection of timepieces created in collaboration with Alfardan Jewellery. Dolce&Gabbana’s love for creativity and watchmaking expertise comes to life in these creations that reimagine some of the brand’s most iconic models, offering a new and luxurious interpretation through the use of refined techniques, exquisite gemstones, and innovative color variations for dials and straps. The new designs stand out for their extraordinary decorative beauty, a result of passionate craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Designed and developed in Italy directly by Dolce&Gabbana alongside Alfardan Jewellery to create a tailored offering for the local market, the timepieces are built and assembled by Swiss master watchmakers, ensuring high-quality performance and finishing. Among the highlights is the Sofia watch, featuring a Milano-link bracelet in 18kt rose gold, made even more radiant by the colorless diamonds set on the bezel of the iconic square case and a mother-of-pearl dial. The DG7 family is enriched with new models that perfectly combine style and functionality through unique components and precious materials. A standout edition showcases the art of engraving and inlay work, featuring a strap and an 18kt rose gold case fully adorned with colorless diamonds that frame and elevate the dial. Timeless and classic elegance inspires the DG7 Tapered watches with a bracelet, case, and dial in 18kt white or rose gold, illuminated by colorless diamonds. The new Dolce&Gabbana timepieces, created in collaboration with Alfardan Jewellery, will be showcased at Alfardan Jewellery booth at DJWE 2025 in Doha, Qatar, and will be then available at select Alfardan Jewellery boutiques.
