Sony and Modern Home Launch WF-1000XM6 Earbuds in Qatar
New flagship earbuds brought advanced noise cancelling, premium sound, and improved comfort to the local market Sony, represented in Qatar by Modern Home, launched its new WF-1000XM6 truly wireless earbuds, introducing the latest generation of its acclaimed 1000X audio range to the Qatar market. The launch also included a new Sand Pink colourway for the WH-1000XM6 wireless over-ear headphones, expanding Sony’s premium personal audio portfolio in the country. The new earbuds arrived as Sony continued to strengthen its position in the premium audio segment, with the WF-1000XM6 designed to deliver stronger noise cancelling, clearer sound, enhanced call quality, and a more refined ergonomic fit compared to the previous-generation WF-1000XM5. In Qatar, the new products became available through Modern Home at Al Maha Center on Salwa Road, as well as Fnac stores at Lagoona Mall, Doha Festival City, and Place Vendôme, alongside other major electronics retailers. A key highlight of the WF-1000XM6 was its upgraded noise cancelling capability. Sony stated that the earbuds delivered a 25 percent further reduction in noise compared to the predecessor model, particularly improving performance in mid-to-high frequency environments such as cafés and public transport. The earbuds featured the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN3e, supported by four microphones and Sony’s Integrated Processor V2, enabling more precise real-time analysis of environmental noise and fit conditions. Sony also focused heavily on sound performance. The WF-1000XM6 combined dual processors, enhanced DAC amplifier performance, and a newly developed driver unit to create a richer and more detailed listening experience. The earbuds supported Hi-Res Audio Wireless, DSEE Extreme, 360 Reality Audio, head tracking, and a 10-band EQ adjustable through the Sony Sound Connect app, offering users more control over their listening preferences. To refine the audio signature further, Sony worked with a group of Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated mastering engineers, including professionals associated with artists such as Ed Sheeran, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Bob Dylan, and Alicia Keys. This collaboration reflected Sony’s continued emphasis on reproducing music as closely as possible to the creators’ original intent. For voice calls, the earbuds were equipped with two microphones and a bone conduction sensor on each side, supported by an AI beamforming noise reduction algorithm. This system was developed to isolate the speaker’s voice more accurately, even in crowded or noisy settings. Sony also introduced notable design improvements in the new model. The WF-1000XM6 featured a body approximately 11 percent slimmer than its predecessor, helping it sit more naturally in the ear for extended wear. A revised ventilation structure was also added to reduce internal noises such as footsteps and chewing sounds, contributing to a more comfortable daily listening experience. On the connectivity and convenience front, the earbuds included support for LE Audio, improved antenna design for more stable connections, and compatibility with Google Gemini for hands-free assistance. Battery performance offered up to 8 hours of listening on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the charging case, with support for wireless charging through Qi technology. Sony also highlighted its sustainability efforts, stating that approximately 25 percent circular material was used in the plastics allocated to the WF-1000XM6, while the packaging was designed to be plastic-free. Alongside the earbuds, Sony introduced the Sand Pink version of the WH-1000XM6 headphones, reflecting the growing demand for headphones that combined premium sound with lifestyle-driven design. The new shade joined the existing Black, Platinum Silver, and Midnight Blue options. With this launch, Sony and Modern Home further expanded Qatar’s access to high-end consumer technology, targeting users seeking premium audio performance, comfort, and design in one package. In a market where lifestyle, mobility, and innovation continued to shape consumer demand, the arrival of the WF-1000XM6 reinforced Sony’s ambition to stay ahead in the premium wireless audio category.
MARLI New York Brought Modern Fine Jewelry to Doha With Exclusive Pop-Up at Place Vendôme Mall
MARLI New York announced the opening of its exclusive pop-up boutique at Place Vendôme Mall, welcoming visitors from February 15 to April 19, 2026. The limited-time retail experience added a fresh dimension to Qatar’s luxury landscape, bringing the brand’s contemporary fine jewelry vision to one of the region’s most prestigious shopping destinations. Located in the heart of Doha news and luxury retail conversations, Place Vendôme Mall provided the ideal setting for MARLI New York to introduce its latest creations and signature collections to the Qatar business and lifestyle audience. The pop-up featured some of the brand’s most recognisable lines, including Cleo, LIFE, and Empire, each reflecting MARLI’s distinctive approach to modern elegance. The boutique experience highlighted the design elements that have defined MARLI’s aesthetic: strong architectural forms, pyramid motifs, rotating rings, and diamond-set details. These signatures came together to create pieces that felt bold yet refined, combining New York-inspired energy with a polished, contemporary sensibility that resonated with luxury consumers in Qatar. Through this exclusive activation, MARLI New York offered visitors more than a retail destination. The pop-up created an immersive brand experience where craftsmanship, innovation, and design identity came into focus. Guests were invited to explore collections that balanced artistic expression with wearability, reinforcing the brand’s reputation in the international fine jewelry market. The opening of the pop-up also reflected Doha’s growing position as a key hub for global luxury brands. As leading names in fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle continued to expand their footprint in the region, high-profile activations such as this one strengthened the city’s reputation within the wider Middle East News and luxury retail space. For shoppers and collectors in Qatar, the arrival of MARLI New York added another noteworthy chapter to the evolving premium retail scene. By bringing its exclusive boutique concept to Place Vendôme Mall, MARLI New York strengthened its connection with the region’s discerning clientele while showcasing its vision of modern fine jewelry in an elegant and intimate setting. The pop-up stood as a celebration of craftsmanship, style, and contemporary luxury in Doha, further enriching the city’s dynamic luxury offering.
Doha Film Institute Moves Qumra 2026 Online, Keeping Global Film Mentorship in Motion
Doha Film Institute has moved Qumra 2026 online, but the scale of the programme makes one thing clear: Qatar’s commitment to film, storytelling, and creative leadership remains firmly in motion. Qumra will now run virtually from 27 March to 8 April 2026, bringing mentorship, networking, and industry support to 49 projects from 39 countries. In a period marked by regional strain, the decision is practical, but it is also symbolic. Rather than pause one of the region’s most important film development platforms, Doha Film Institute chooses continuity. For Qatar’s creative sector, that matters A Strong Qatar Signal in a Challenging Moment Qumra is not simply an event. It is one of the region’s longest-running film incubators, designed to support first- and second-time filmmakers through tailored mentorship, one-to-one sessions, and access to global industry experts. Doha Film Institute says the programme will continue to connect selected projects with international decision-makers and advisors despite the format change. That makes the move online more than a scheduling update. It reinforces Qatar’s ability to keep high-value cultural platforms active even when circumstances shift. 49 Projects, 39 Countries, One Expanding Creative Platform This year’s Qumra selection spans 27 feature projects, 9 series, and 13 shorts, underscoring the programme’s breadth across narrative, documentary, essay, TV, web series, and short-form storytelling. The line-up includes filmmakers from across the Middle East and North Africa, as well as international participants, reflecting Qumra’s growing global relevance. Doha Film Institute’s official project platform also highlights the programme’s scale of support, with filmmakers gaining access to nearly 200 global industry experts through curated sessions, work-in-progress screenings, and professional meetings. For Business Leaders, that is the real headline: Qatar is not only hosting creativity, it isbuilding the infrastructure that helps it move from concept to market. Qatar-Based Filmmakers Hold a Strong Presence One of the strongest stories within Qumra 2026 is the visibility of local talent. The cohort includes 15 projects by Qatar-based filmmakers, including 10 by Qatari nationals, alongside projects nurtured through Doha Film Institute’s training and funding ecosystem. Trade reporting on the selection also notes that the majority of participating projects come from the MENA region, with a smaller but meaningful international group. That local representation is significant. It shows that Qatar’s film ecosystem is not only supporting imported prestige, but also developing a pipeline of homegrown voices with regional and international potential. Among the Qatar-linked titles are projects such as The Peacock Queen, Reset, A Disguised Practice, memorandum of understanding (working title), NESYAN, Light to Ashes, and When The News Breaks You — each reflecting the range of themes, forms, and creative ambition now emerging from the country’s cinematic community. Resilience Is Now Part of Qatar’s Creative Brand Doha Film Institute’s public messaging around the shift online makes clear that the decision is rooted in safety and wellbeing. At the same time, the institute is preserving what matters most: exchange, mentorship, and project development. The official Qumra pages confirm that the online edition will continue to bring together filmmakers and industry experts through virtual sessions and targeted meetings. That balance between caution and continuity is increasingly central to Qatar’s institutional reputation. Across sectors, the country has built a pattern of adapting quickly while keeping long-term priorities intact. Qumra 2026 now joins that wider story. Why This Matters Beyond Film The move online may be about logistics on the surface, but the wider significance is cultural and economic. Creative industries are not built by one-off festivals or announcements. They are built through systems: mentorship, funding, professional access, industry matchmaking, and sustained visibility. Qumra sits at the centre of that system. It helps filmmakers refine projects, access expertise, and move closer to production, financing, distribution, and festival recognition. For Doha, that means film is no longer just part of the cultural conversation. It is part of the city’s global positioning. Business Leaders View What stands out most about Qumra 2026 is not that it moves online. It is that it keeps moving. At a time when many platforms might have chosen delay or retreat, Doha Film Institute maintains momentum for 49 projects from 39 countries and keeps Qatar visibly connected to the future of cinema. That is what makes this story bigger than film news. It is a story about institutional resilience, cultural investment, and Qatar’s growing role as a serious home for creative development. In that sense, Qumra 2026 is not slowing down. It is evolving — and taking Doha’s film leadership with it.
Aisha Hussein Alfardan: Leading with Legacy, Purpose and Impact
Aisha Hussein Alfardan’s journey was shaped by legacy, discipline, and a deep commitment to women’s empowerment in Qatar. From her early banking career to her leadership role within Alfardan Group and the Qatari Businesswomen Association, she reflected on resilience, institution-building, and the evolving role of women in national development. Aisha Hussein Alfardan’s career path began with the values instilled by her father, the legendary Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan, founder of Alfardan Group, one of the region’s most prominent family conglomerates. His philosophy was clear: start early, learn from the ground up, and build experience step by step. According to Alfardan, her father believed that real leadership came from understanding every layer of a business. That principle profoundly shaped her professional journey. “I began my professional career at the Commercial Bank of Qatar, where I worked for over nine years and progressed to become Ladies Branch Manager,” she said. “That experience gave me firsthand exposure to financial operations, client relations, and institutional discipline. It taught me accountability, structure, and the importance of earning credibility through performance.” In 2003, Alfardan joined Alfardan Group to work alongside her father and brothers in managing and developing the family business. For her, being part of a legacy enterprise was both an honour and a responsibility. “My focus has been on contributing to its continued growth while preserving the values upon which it was built,” she said. “Alongside my role within the family business, my work with the Qatari Businesswomen Association has been a central part of my journey, channelling my experience toward empowering women, strengthening their economic participation and contributing to Qatar’s broader economic development.” A Pioneer in Women’s Empowerment In Qatar, Alfardan believed that progress had evolved organically and in harmony with cultural values and the national vision. One of the strongest inspirations behind women’s advancement, she noted, had been the vision and leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. Her longstanding commitment to education, social development, and women’s empowerment laid a strong foundation for women to pursue leadership roles with confidence. “Her Highness has consistently emphasised that investing in women’s education and capabilities is essential for sustainable national progress,” Alfardan said. “This vision has greatly influenced the environment in which organisations such as QBWA operate, allowing us to build on a national framework that supports inclusion, opportunity, and growth.” Within that supportive framework, the role of institutions such as the Qatari Businesswomen Association had been to translate vision into action, creating practical pathways for women to access mentorship, partnerships, and economic opportunities. “By working collaboratively with different entities, private sector partners, and international institutions, we have contributed to fostering an ecosystem where women’s leadership is increasingly recognised as an integral part of Qatar’s development journey,” she explained. Recognition That Reflected a Wider Movement In 2006, Alfardan was ranked 24th on the Forbes list of the 50 Top Businesswomen in the Arab World, a recognition that highlighted her success, prominence, and ambition in the business sphere. For Alfardan, such recognitions were never solely personal. They brought visibility not only to individuals but to entire communities. “Being ranked among the top Arab businesswomen highlighted the growing role of Qatari women in regional business,” she said. “It reinforced confidence among young women and demonstrated that leadership and ambition are fully compatible with our national identity.” Gender Parity and the Evolving Glass Ceiling According to Alfardan, Qatar had made remarkable progress, particularly in education, where women accounted for a significant share of graduates. Women today lead businesses, serve in government, and contribute across key sectors. While parity remained an ongoing global journey, she believed the trajectory in Qatar was strong and aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. On the subject of the glass ceiling, Alfardan offered a balanced perspective. “The concept of the glass ceiling is a global discussion, and it would not be realistic to suggest that any society has eliminated all structural or social challenges,” she said. “Around the world, women continue to navigate complexities related to representation at the highest levels of leadership, balancing professional and personal responsibilities, and accessing certain sectors traditionally dominated by men.” She noted, however, that Qatar’s landscape had evolved significantly over the past two decades. Women today are highly educated, professionally accomplished, and increasingly visible across government, finance, academia, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and the private sector. “That said, leadership at the very top, whether in corporate boards, executive positions, or certain industries, remains an area where continued progress is important,” she said. “Breaking perceived ceilings is not only about individual determination; it also requires institutional support, mentorship, confidence-building, and a culture that values diversity in decision-making.” Her conclusion was both optimistic and grounded. “I believe that in Qatar, the trajectory is very positive. The glass ceiling, where it exists, is becoming thinner each year as more women demonstrate competence, resilience, and leadership capability. Progress here is evolutionary, built on merit, partnership, and alignment with our national development vision.” For Alfardan, the formula for breaking barriers was clear: perseverance, competence, and strategic partnership. “I believe credibility is earned through results and long-term commitment. When women demonstrate excellence, they naturally open doors, not only for themselves but for others.” International Women’s Day and the Meaning of Empowerment Alfardan viewed International Women’s Day as both a celebration and a moment of reflection. “It recognises the achievements of women across all sectors while reminding us that empowerment is an ongoing journey,” she said. In Qatar, she believed it highlighted the significant progress Qatari women had made in education, leadership, and entrepreneurship, supported by a national vision that viewed women as key partners in development. It also served as an opportunity to inspire younger generations and reaffirm a commitment to inclusive growth and shared success. “When women are empowered, families, institutions, and societies prosper,” she said. Resilience, Crisis Handling and Purpose Reflecting on her journey, Alfardan said resilience began with clarity of purpose. “My professional journey has taught me that resilience begins with clarity of purpose. When you are guided by strong values and
Baraha Ramadan Nights at Mandarin Oriental, Doha: A Refined Culinary Journey in the Heart of Msheireb
Mandarin Oriental, Doha has unveiled Baraha Ramadan Nights — an elevated Iftar and Suhour experience set beneath the open-air ambience of Barahat Msheireb, offering guests a sophisticated setting to embrace the spirit and traditions of the Holy Month. Blending Qatari hospitality with Mandarin Oriental’s signature culinary excellence, Baraha Ramadan Nights brings together the warmth of Ramadan gatherings and the artistry of world-class gastronomy. Families and friends are welcome to enjoy a generous culinary experience featuring traditional Ramadan favourites and contemporary dishes prepared across 14 live cooking stations, showcasing flavours from the region and beyond. A Thoughtfully Curated Iftar & Suhour Guests are invited to break their fast with an abundant spread of classic Ramadan specialities and signature dishes from the hotel’s acclaimed dining venues. The atmosphere at Barahat Msheireb — elegant, serene, and open-air — creates an ideal setting for meaningful conversations, connection, and reflection. A Signature Ramadan Cake from The Mandarin Cake Shop Adding a refined touch to the season, The Mandarin Cake Shop introduces a standout creation from The Heritage Cake Collection:a pistachio dacquoise layered with pistachio namelaka and Medjool date crémeux, crafted as an elegant centrepiece for Ramadan gatherings. The cake is available for pre-order at QAR 350. Ramadan Retreat Package For guests seeking tranquillity during the Holy Month, Mandarin Oriental, Doha presents a peaceful Ramadan Retreat Package. The experience includes: Wellness & Inner Harmony at The Spa The Spa’s Resilience & Self-Love Retreat offers a sanctuary for mindfulness and renewal.This two-hour immersive experience (QAR 1,600) includes: Reservations For bookings and full Ramadan offerings, visit:https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/doha/msheireb/ramadanor call +974 4008 8888.
Cultural Ties Take Centre Stage Following Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Visit to Doha
A new chapter in Qatar–Canada relations is unfolding as Mark Carney visited Doha this month, placing culture alongside trade, education, and innovation as a strategic pillar of long-term cooperation. His visit coincided with the launch of the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture, a landmark initiative designed to strengthen people-to-people ties and accelerate cross-sector collaboration. Canadian media launches were held on 29 January in Toronto at the Aga Khan Museum, followed by an event on 30 January at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Ottawa. During the Toronto briefing, Michael Bartlett, CEO of Canada Basketball, presented a commemorative basketball to Qatari representatives—symbolising sport’s role in diplomacy. Strengthening Cultural Diplomacy During his Doha press briefing on 18 January, Prime Minister Carney highlighted the transformative power of cultural familiarity: “When the people of different countries are familiar with each other’s cultures and perspectives, they’re enriched and they trust each other more. They also want to do more together.” He emphasised that Qatar’s Year of Culture—with Canada as a primary partner—will help deepen bilateral trust through arts, education, business, and creative collaboration. Qatar’s newly appointed Ambassador to Canada, His Excellency Tariq Ali Faraj Al-Ansari, added: “By linking cultural exchange with economic opportunity and institutional cooperation, we are building relationships that will endure beyond 2026.” A Bilateral Partnership Linking Culture with Economic Opportunity This year-long cultural programme is built on a strategic approach that aligns cultural diplomacy with trade diversification, skills development, and market access, connecting Qatar and Canada beyond traditional government channels. Programme Highlights Across Sectors Gastronomy: Canadian Chefs Shine in Doha Cultural programming began at the Qatar International Food Festival, where Canadian chefs Christian Gosselin, Eric Chong, and Andy Hay participated in live culinary showcases. Their presentations amplified Canada’s emerging influence in global gastronomy through innovation, technique, and storytelling. Sport: Basketball, Winter Sports & Legacy Partnerships Sport remains a core pillar of Qatar–Canada relations, especially as Doha prepares to host the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027™. Plans are underway for an international basketball friendly, highlighting the sport’s Canadian origins and Qatar’s growing investment in global sports infrastructure. Winter sports development is another focus area. The Qatar Winter Sports Committee is collaborating with Canadian partners on programmes related to ice hockey, curling, skating, and short-track training. Michael Bartlett, CEO of Canada Basketball, stated: “Sports diplomacy matters now more than ever. Basketball has a unique ability to build lasting relationships between young people, communities, and nations.” Education & Literacy: Qatar Reads Expands to Canada As part of the cultural year, Qatar Reads, led by Qatar National Library, will launch programming in Canada in August 2026. Activities will include Arabic storytelling, children’s literature exchanges, and creative workshops, while reciprocal programmes will introduce Canadian traditions to families in Qatar. Additionally, a Doha Debates Town Hall will be held in Canada, focusing on football, identity, and the global impact of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. Public Space & Design: Art as Cultural Connector Several major cultural exhibitions and art initiatives are planned, including: Economic Partnership: Culture as a Long-Term Growth Engine The Qatar–Canada cultural partnership supports larger economic goals by embedding commerce into cultural programming. Collaborations with Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry will create new access pathways for Canadian companies via platforms such as Project Qatar and Hospitality Qatar. This approach positions culture as a catalyst for: A Strategic Vision for 2026 and Beyond Canada and Qatar are deepening their bilateral relationship through a model that blends culture, education, sport, design, and enterprise. Prime Minister Carney’s visit marks the beginning of a year defined by collaboration, shared values, and a forward-looking commitment to cultural diplomacy. The Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture stands poised to become one of the most impactful cultural partnerships in the region—uniting communities, industries, and institutions under a shared vision for global cooperation.
Dana Al Fardan Bridges Qatari Heritage & Sardinian Culture in “The Song of the Two Seas”
In a landmark intercultural performance titled “The Song of the Two Seas”, celebrated Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan brought the essence of Qatari musical heritage to the prestigious Teatro Lirico di Cagliari in Italy. Presented on New Year’s Eve 2025, the concert marked a defining artistic exchange between Qatar and Sardinia, uniting two coastal cultures shaped by the sea. A Cultural Bridge Between Qatar and Sardinia Under the direction of renowned maestro Giovanni Pasini, the evening introduced audiences to a sophisticated 75-minute programme fusing orchestral mastery with Qatari traditional motifs. The performance brought together: Al Fardan’s selections—including works from Tempest, Nadir, and the lullaby “Andimironnai”—were woven seamlessly with pieces by Glinka and Ezio Bosso. Maestro Pasini also premiered a new choral arrangement of Tempest, dedicated to the opera choir. The Sounding Stones: A Sonic Signature A highlight of the night was the integration of the legendary Sounding Stones by the late Sardinian sculptor Pinuccio Sciola. Played live by Maria Sciola and Andrea Granitzio, the stones emitted ancient, metallic resonances that merged naturally with Al Fardan’s contemporary orchestration. Al Fardan described this experience as “absorbing the frequency of the land,” blending Qatari rhythms with Sardinia’s geological soundscape. A Night of Prestigious Attendance The concert drew significant distinguished guests, including: Their presence underscored the growing cultural and diplomatic bridge between Qatar and Sardinia. Dana Al Fardan: Expanding Qatari Music to Global Stages As the first female Qatari composer to integrate traditional folk elements—especially Fijiri, the music of Qatari pearl divers—into orchestral compositions, Al Fardan continues to shape a distinctive artistic voice. Her cinematic album Tempest, recorded with over 100 musicians, explores global seafaring narratives threaded through Qatari heritage, reinforcing the universality of human stories shaped by the sea. Her international successes include: A Prelude to Deeper Cultural Collaboration Reflecting on the night, Al Fardan noted that “shared human values and a shared appreciation for the arts are laying the foundations for broader cultural integration.” The performance served not only as a celebration of artistic exchange but as a forward-looking signal for future collaborations across tourism, enterprise, and the creative industries between Sardinia and Qatar.
Msheireb Museums Hosts Screening of Australian–Qatari Pearling Documentary Al Nayla
Msheireb Museums, in collaboration with Qatar Television and the Australian Embassy in Doha, hosted a special screening of the documentary Al Nayla: A Journey to the Depths of Sea and the Secrets of Extracting Oysters and Pearls from the Coast of Australia. Held at Stories in Msheireb Museums, the event brought together diplomats, cultural leaders, and members of the public to explore the deep historical ties between Qatar and Australia through the pearling industry. The documentary traced the evolution of Western Australia’s pearling sector, documenting traditional pearl diving practices, the transition to cultured pearls, and the families who shaped the industry over generations. Through archival footage and expert interviews, Al Nayla illustrated how technological and economic shifts transformed a regional trade into a globally significant industry—mirroring similar developments in the Gulf. The screening carried strong diplomatic significance, attended by Dick Milton, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives; Shane Flanagan; senior leadership from Qatar Television; and members of the diplomatic community. Their presence highlighted the enduring cultural and historical links between the two nations. Commenting on the occasion, Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, noted that the film created a natural dialogue between Qatar’s pearling legacy and international maritime histories—expanding audiences’ understanding of how the sea shaped societies across continents. Australian Ambassador Shane Flanagan described the documentary as a reminder of the human stories connecting Australia and Qatar, particularly as both nations celebrate a decade of diplomatic presence. Meanwhile, Ali Saleh Al-Sada, Director of Qatar Television, emphasised the importance of placing the film within Msheireb Museums, where Qatar’s pearling heritage is already preserved and interpreted. Through Al Nayla, Msheireb Museums reaffirmed its role as a platform for cultural dialogue—using history, storytelling, and shared heritage to strengthen international understanding and collaboration.
VoPay Establishes Global Headquarters in Qatar, Strengthening Doha’s Role as a Global Fintech Infrastructure Hub
VoPay International Inc., a leading global financial infrastructure platform, has officially established its global headquarters in Qatar, positioning Doha as the company’s primary hub for advancing digital financial infrastructure across MENA, Africa, Southeast Asia, and other high-growth markets, while continuing to support operations in North America, Europe, and Latin America. The strategic move reinforces Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global centre for fintech, cross-border payments, and financial system modernisation, aligned with the country’s long-term economic diversification agenda. Doha as the Engine of VoPay’s Global Expansion From its Doha headquarters, VoPay will expand and operate core financial infrastructure that supports central banks, financial institutions, governments, public-sector entities, and large enterprises. The platform enables institutions to modernise legacy financial systems, improve interoperability, and connect regional markets with global financial ecosystems through secure, scalable, and intelligent infrastructure. As part of its long-term commitment, VoPay plans to hire more than 400 highly skilled professionals in Qatar over the next three years, spanning engineering, technology, cybersecurity, compliance, data, and platform operations—further strengthening Qatar’s role as a sustainable hub for financial infrastructure development. Alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 VoPay’s decision closely aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, digital transformation, and the development of a knowledge-based economy under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Commenting on the announcement, VoPay Founder and CEO Hamed Arbabi stated that Qatar offers a unique platform for scaling financial infrastructure that connects regions, institutions, and markets with resilience and intelligence—making it a natural choice for the company’s global headquarters. Strategic Support from Invest Qatar and QFC VoPay’s expansion into Qatar has been supported by Invest Qatar, which played a key role in facilitating the company’s market entry and long-term growth strategy. Operating within the ecosystem of the Qatar Financial Centre, VoPay benefits from a robust regulatory framework designed to attract global financial technology leaders. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, noted that VoPay’s investment further reinforces Qatar’s commitment to building a diversified, innovation-driven economy and positioning the country as a global hub for advanced financial technologies. Qatar’s Rise as a Global Financial Infrastructure Platform By anchoring its global headquarters in Doha, VoPay is contributing to Qatar’s emergence as a trusted platform for digital financial infrastructure, enabling cross-border financial coordination, institutional collaboration, and large-scale interoperability across regions. The Doha headquarters will serve as a strategic coordination centre for initiatives supporting financial system modernisation throughout the Gulf, MENA, Africa, and Southeast Asia—enhancing capital flows, data connectivity, and secure financial operations across borders. Powering the Future of Finance from Qatar Through applied artificial intelligence, mature infrastructure technology, and global financial connectivity, VoPay’s platform bridges regional financial systems with international banking frameworks. This enables institutions operating from Qatar to integrate seamlessly with global markets, reinforcing Doha’s role as a convening point for resilient, intelligent, and future-ready financial infrastructure. As Qatar continues to attract global fintech leaders, VoPay’s decision marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a world-class hub for digital finance and financial innovation.
Lynk & Co 09 Redefines Luxury SUV Standards for Business and Leisure in Qatar
The Lynk & Co 09 has arrived in Qatar, setting a new benchmark in the premium SUV segment with a compelling blend of performance, technology, comfort, and design. Positioned as the flagship model of the brand, the Lynk & Co 09 was engineered for discerning professionals and families seeking a refined driving experience—whether navigating Doha’s urban landscape or embarking on long-distance journeys. Available now at Auto Class Cars, the authorised general distributor of Lynk & Co in Qatar, the 09 is showcased at the brand’s showroom on Salwa Road. A Flagship Built for Modern Urban Life Constructed on the advanced SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) platform, the Lynk & Co 09 reflected the brand’s upward and onward design philosophy. Its exterior design combined confidence and elegance, highlighted by the signature Aurora Borealis daytime running lights, inspired by natural light phenomena, and the distinctive Urban Coast front fascia that balanced power with sophistication. At the rear, the Energy Cube LED combination lamps delivered a striking visual identity, ensuring the Lynk & Co 09 stood out across Doha’s roads—day or night. First-Class Cabin Experience Inside, the Lynk & Co 09 delivered a cabin designed to rival premium executive lounges. The interior featured genuine NAPPA leather seating, available with massage functionality, ensuring exceptional comfort for both drivers and passengers. Technology took centre stage with a 12.8-inch full-colour W-HUD that projected essential driving information directly into the driver’s line of sight, complemented by a 12+6-inch touchable centre panel offering seamless connectivity, navigation, and entertainment. The refined Starry-night controls, finished in matte silver electroplating, enhanced the tactile and visual appeal of the cockpit. Outstanding Comfort and Wellness Designed with long journeys in mind, the Lynk & Co 09 prioritised passenger wellbeing. Features included a BOSE 14-speaker premium audio system, an advanced air-purifying system for a cleaner cabin environment, and ambient overhead lighting for a relaxed atmosphere. A full-cover sunshade transformed the interior into a private oasis, while the touch-controlled steering wheel—wrapped in genuine leather and equipped with heating and memory functions—added to the vehicle’s executive-level comfort. Performance Meets Precision Engineering Under the bonnet, the Lynk & Co 09 was powered by a Drive-E 2.0TD T5 Turbo engine with 48V BSG system, producing 254 PS and 350 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the SUV delivered smooth acceleration, confident handling, and efficient cruising. Its sport chassis featured an aluminium front double-wishbone suspension and a rear integrated multi-link independent suspension, with aluminium accounting for nearly 48% of the chassis structure—enhancing stability, ride comfort, and driving precision. Intelligent Safety and Driver Assistance Safety remained a defining pillar of the Lynk & Co 09. The SUV integrated 23 advanced driver assistance systems, supported by a high-strength body structure and 12 ultrasonic radar sensors for accurate vehicle dynamics monitoring. Key features included Highway Assist for stress-free long-distance driving and Evasive Maneuver Assist, designed to enhance safety in critical situations—reinforcing the model’s positioning as a smart luxury SUV for Qatar’s roads. Available Now in Doha The Lynk & Co 09 and the brand’s full vehicle lineup are available at Auto Class Cars on Salwa Road, offering customers in Qatar access to a new generation of premium SUVs that combine Scandinavian-inspired design, intelligent technology, and refined performance.
