Qatar Travel Mart 2025 Invites Global Industry Leaders to Shape the Future of Tourism
As global travel and tourism enter a new era of expansion, Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025 invites industry leaders, tourism professionals, and global travellers to experience a world of destinations, ideas, and opportunities—all under one roof in Doha. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, this year’s edition is set to be one of the most influential gatherings in the global travel and hospitality sector. QTM 2025 brings together the world’s leading voices, fostering collaboration and showcasing the role of tourism in connecting cultures and driving sustainable economic growth. A Record-Setting Platform for Qatar’s Tourism Ambitions Building on last year’s outstanding success—10,000+ visitors, 300+ exhibitors from 60+ countries, 300+ hosted buyers, and 50+ global speakers—QTM 2025 returns with an expanded vision for the future of tourism. This year’s event will unite stakeholders across ten key tourism sectors, reinforcing QTM’s position as a global hub for travel innovation, hospitality leadership, and destination development. Organised by NeXTfairs, and supported by an impressive lineup of partners—including Visit Qatar as Strategic Partner, Katara Hospitality as Founding Partner, The Ned Doha and Retaj Hotels & Hospitality as Platinum Sponsors, West Walk as Gold Sponsor, Qissatec as Silver Sponsor, and Mowasalat as Official Transport Partner—QTM 2025 reflects Qatar’s growing status as a world-class destination for leisure, culture, business, and events. Industry Leaders Share Their Vision Max Binda, Managing Director of The Ned Doha, highlighted Qatar’s growing global appeal:“Qatar Travel Mart is a powerful platform to showcase how Qatar blends heritage, art, and hospitality. We are honoured to contribute to a country that continues to evolve as a global hub for culture and travel.” Medhat Nouby, CEO of Retaj Hotels & Hospitality, added:“Being a Platinum Sponsor of QTM 2025 reinforces our commitment to elevating Qatari hospitality on the world stage. The event provides a strategic platform to share our regional growth, partnerships, and new developments.” As a Silver Sponsor, Qissatec brings a visionary approach to cultural technology. Founder & CEO Sheikh Suhaim Ahmed S. J. Al Thani said:“At Qissatec, we believe every place has a soul. Through the Qissatec App, we connect people to the stories behind every destination—preserving heritage, inspiring discovery, and transforming every journey into an emotional, immersive experience.” A Global Showcase of Destinations and Innovation QTM 2025 will welcome a diverse lineup of international tourism boards, country pavilions, and destination brands, offering a vibrant showcase of global travel potential. Visitors can explore new markets, discover investment opportunities, and engage with partners from across the world. This year’s edition provides a unique platform for understanding how innovation, collaboration, and sustainability are reshaping the future of global tourism. QTM Conference: Three Days of Insight and Inspiration A major highlight of QTM 2025 is the QTM Conference, curated in partnership with the World Leisure Organisation. Spanning three thematic days, the conference will explore the future of tourism through the lenses of: Day 1: Culture & Heritage Tourism Celebrating the stories, identities, and shared human experiences that define global destinations. Day 2: Hospitality & Sustainability A deep dive into how design, digital transformation, and green practices are reshaping the modern hospitality landscape. Day 3: Events, Wellness & Health Tourism Exploring how events and wellness experiences can drive economic growth, enhance well-being, and strengthen destination competitiveness. Industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and tourism experts will share insights, real-world strategies, and future-focused ideas that reflect the travel industry’s rapid transformation. Final Call to Register With just one week left to register, QTM 2025 is set to be an unmissable global event for tourism boards, hospitality brands, travel professionals, investors, and travellers passionate about the future of tourism. Qatar Travel Mart 2025 is more than an exhibition—it is a gateway to global opportunity, a celebration of cultural exchange, and a platform shaping the next chapter of international tourism.
Msheireb Museums Shares a Decade of Heritage Innovation at ICOM Dubai 2025
Msheireb Museums marked a significant milestone on the global cultural stage by participating in the ICOM (International Council of Museums) Dubai 2025 Conference, held from November 12 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Fresh off its 10th anniversary celebrations, the institution shared insights from a decade of pioneering work in heritage-led innovation, museum practice, and community-driven cultural preservation. The participation offered an opportunity to present the methodologies and learnings documented in the recently launched publications:‘Msheireb Museums: Transforming Doha’s Heritage Houses’ and‘Building on Tradition – The New Architectural Language of Qatar.’These works highlight how the museums have translated heritage into a living resource for contemporary identity, urban placemaking, and regional museum development. Heritage and Progress as Partners Mr Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, reflected on the institution’s contribution to global dialogue: “The conversations at ICOM Dubai reinforced what we celebrated at our 10th anniversary: that heritage and progress work together when rooted in community wisdom. Sharing our approach with peers validated our mission of transforming these houses into living platforms where heritage shapes identity and inspires belonging.” This exchange strengthened Msheireb Museums’ commitment to expanding its role as a cultural anchor within Msheireb Downtown Doha — a model for integrating tradition with sustainable urban development. Spotlight on Global Expertise: Msheireb Museums at ICOM Msheireb Museums led two key presentations during the conference: Session A-22: Intangible Heritage – Storytelling, Identity & Relevance Presentation: Voices Remembered: Curating Intangible Heritage and Historical Trauma at Bin Jelmood HouseSpeaker: Abdullah Al NaamaThis session explored how Bin Jelmood House navigates sensitive historical narratives while honouring the lived experiences of those impacted, creating meaningful spaces for dialogue and empathy. Session C-22: Regional Museum Branding & The Future of Museums Presentation: Branding Heritage: How Msheireb Museums Connect Local Identity with Global ConversationsSpeaker: Mohammed Al Yousuf, Operations & Visitor Relations ManagerThe presentation demonstrated how the museums position themselves as a bridge between Qatar’s cultural heritage and evolving global museum standards amid rapid urban transformation. Following both sessions, discussions centred on how Msheireb Museums balances authenticity with innovation, transforming historic buildings into contemporary spaces for education, storytelling, and community belonging. A Global Platform for Cultural Leadership The ICOM Dubai 2025 Conference brought together museum leaders, curators, academics, researchers, and cultural heritage experts from around the world to examine the evolving role of museums in today’s rapidly changing societies. Msheireb Museums’ participation highlights its growing influence as a regional and international thought leader, contributing to the cultural, educational, and social development of Qatar and beyond. A Decade of Impact in Msheireb Downtown Doha Born from the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Msheireb Museums tell the story of four iconic heritage houses at the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha. Carefully restored and adapted in line with global conservation standards, these museums embody Qatar’s commitment to preserving its past while building for its future. Over the past decade, Msheireb Museums have welcomed more than 200,000 students, strengthened partnerships with educational and cultural institutions, and established themselves as a leading platform where heritage, innovation, and urban development meet. As heritage continues to shape identity and inspire new generations, Msheireb Museums reaffirm their role in preserving Qatar’s cultural narrative — and redefining the role of museums in a rapidly evolving world.
Almana Group and XPENG Drive Qatar’s Smart Mobility Revolution
Almana Group, one of Qatar’s most established and diversified business conglomerates, has officially announced the entry of XPENG — the pioneering Chinese intelligent electric vehicle brand — into the Qatari market. Through its subsidiary Pioneer Motors Company, Almana Group unveiled XPENG at a grand ceremony held at The St. Regis Doha, marking a significant leap toward advancing Qatar’s smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. The event drew an audience of senior government officials, diplomats, and industry leaders, highlighting the strategic importance of XPENG’s arrival under the stewardship of Almana Group. As the official distributor of XPENG in Qatar, Pioneer Motors underscores Almana’s long-standing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric mobility solutions. “Our partnership with XPENG reflects our confidence in the future of electric and intelligent mobility, as well as our commitment to contributing to Qatar’s journey of innovation and sustainability,” said Tariq Omar Al-Mana, Vice President – Automotive Division, Almana Group.“As we embrace this new era, we continue to build bridges between Qatar and the world through technology, trust, and forward-thinking enterprise.” A New Era of Intelligent Mobility Founded in 2014 and listed on both the New York Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, XPENG has rapidly emerged as a global leader in AI-driven mobility, autonomous driving, and software-defined vehicles. XPENG’s intelligent systems seamlessly combine cutting-edge software, advanced EV performance, and a refined in-cabin experience designed to meet the expectations of modern, tech-savvy drivers. “This collaboration represents a bold step forward for Almana Group as we diversify our automotive portfolio and invest in technologies shaping the future of transportation,” stated Almoatasim Billah Sharqawi, Group CEO, Almana Group.“By introducing XPENG to Qatar, we contribute to the evolution of a smarter and more sustainable mobility ecosystem.” Amer Omar Hassan, COO – Group Automotive at Almana Group, added: “The addition of XPENG to our portfolio marks a major leap for Almana Group and Qatar’s mobility landscape. XPENG’s AI-powered technology will redefine driving experiences and set new standards in intelligent performance and sustainability.” From XPENG’s perspective, the partnership is equally strategic. “We are honoured to partner with Almana Group — a name synonymous with trust and innovation in Qatar,” said Ken, General Manager of XPENG Middle East & Africa.“Together, we are not just launching a brand; we are introducing a new vision of intelligent mobility for Qatari consumers.” XPENG Models Debut in Qatar XPENG G6 — Intelligent Coupe SUV A dynamic EV that blends performance, range, and everyday practicality. XPENG G9 — Flagship Luxury SUV The executive benchmark for comfort, technology, and speed. XPENG P7+ — Intelligent Sports Sedan (Coming Soon) Currently in pre-production, the P7+ combines dynamic design and intelligent control. Driving the Future of Mobility in Qatar With XPENG’s official debut, Almana Group reinforces its position as a catalyst for innovation in Qatar’s automotive landscape — integrating AI, electrification, and user-centric design to elevate mobility experiences for consumers and communities alike. As Qatar accelerates toward its sustainable transport vision, the partnership between Almana Group and XPENG represents a defining moment — one that fuses heritage, innovation, and global collaboration to shape the future of smart mobility.
Hospitality Qatar 2025 Kicks Off at DECC with 150 Exhibitors from 20 Countries
A Decade of Excellence in Qatar’s Leading Hospitality and Tourism Exhibition Under the patronage of H.E. Mr Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, the 10th edition of Hospitality Qatar 2025 officially opened at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Organised by IFP Qatar, this milestone event—running from October 28 to 30, 2025—marks ten years of innovation and excellence in Qatar’s hospitality, tourism, and HORECA industries. Welcoming 150 exhibitors from 20 countries, including Argentina, Chile, India, the UAE, China, Italy, and the Netherlands, the exhibition reinforces Qatar’s global standing as a regional hub for hospitality, business, and investment. Qatar’s Tourism Vision Strengthened Mr Omar Abdelrahman Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, emphasised the exhibition’s role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape:
Polo AlMarsa Qatar: Qatar’s First-Ever Polo Showcase at Old Doha Port
Experience the Thrill of Polo in Doha This December 2025! Qatar Polo Club (QPC), under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, proudly presents Polo AlMarsa Qatar, the country’s first-ever polo showcase, taking place from 11–13 December 2025 at Terminal Park, Old Doha Port. Presented by Qatar Calendar, this landmark event celebrates Qatar’s rich equestrian heritage while forging new cultural connections with Argentina and Chile through the Qatar-Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture. A World-Class Polo Experience Over three days, spectators will be immersed in high-calibre polo matches, cultural showcases, and hospitality experiences, all in a purpose-built grass arena. Highlights include: Cultural Connections through Sport As part of the Years of Culture Strategic Cultural Partnership, Polo AlMarsa Qatar strengthens bonds between nations. H.E. Mohammed Al Kuwari, Years of Culture Advisor, emphasised:“Sport and culture bring people together across borders. Polo AlMarsa connects Qatar’s equestrian heritage with Argentina and Chile, creating a cultural bridge that will endure for years.” A Celebration of Heritage, Fashion, and Entertainment The festival combines international polo matches with entertainment, fashion, art, and family activities: Exclusive Hospitality & VIP Experiences For a premium experience, ticketed lounges provide prime pitch-side views, gourmet dining, and exclusive VIP services. Sponsors and dignitaries can enjoy customised hospitality spaces to elevate their Polo AlMarsa experience. Partners and Sponsors Polo AlMarsa Qatar is proudly hosted by Qatar Polo Club, in partnership with Years of Culture, Qatar Calendar, Old Doha Port, and leading partners including QIC, Aspetar, Hurlingham Polo 1875, Qatar Living, and more. Their support ensures a world-class experience for all attendees. Join the First-Ever Polo Showcase in Qatar Don’t miss this historic celebration of polo, culture, and community at Old Doha Port. Tickets are available now. www.poloalmarsa.com
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
Snoonu Attracts Top Talents From Global Tech Giants
As Snoonu accelerates its footprint across the Middle East, the Qatari-born tech powerhouse is attracting top-tier talent from global tech giants like DoorDash and Rappi, reinforcing its position as a rising leader in the region’s digital economy. With bold ambitions and a clear mission to deliver smarter, faster, and more human experiences, Snoonu has made two high-impact hires: Anastasia Zdoroviak as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Estefania Read Elizalde as Director of CX Strategy & Operations. These appointments mark a turning point in Snoonu’s journey as it builds a world-class customer experience (CX) organisation. The company’s latest strategic hires reflect its commitment to innovation, diversity, and creating unforgettable digital experiences. “Bringing in global leaders like Anastasia and Estefania is not just about expertise—it’s about perspective,” said Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu. “Qatar’s tech ecosystem is becoming a magnet for global talent, and Snoonu is at the center of this transformation.” A seasoned CX leader with over a decade of experience across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe, Anastasia Zdoroviak brings an exceptional global lens to Snoonu. She previously led transformative customer experience functions at DoorDash and Rappi, two of the world’s most successful last-mile delivery platforms. With fluency in over a dozen languages and a passion for human-centered design, Anastasia is set to redefine personalised, tech-driven customer journeys at scale across the region. Meet Estefania Read Elizalde – Director of CX Strategy & Operations A U.S.-Mexico dual national and University of Cambridge MBA graduate, Estefania specialises in agile strategy and cross-functional CX operations. With a strong background in tech operations and new market scale-ups, Estefania is here to optimise Snoonu’s regional growth engine. Building the Middle East’s Most Multicultural Tech Team Snoonu’s CX team is now among the most diverse and multicultural in the GCC, representing a fusion of Silicon Valley mindset and Middle Eastern innovation. Backed by a new partnership with Jahez Group (Saudi Arabia)—one of the region’s leading digital platforms—Snoonu is fast becoming a central player in the Gulf’s integrated tech ecosystem.
Doha Film Institute Empowers Global Talent with 2025 Spring Grants Cycle
Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the recipients of its highly anticipated 2025 Spring Grants cycle, reaffirming its role as the region’s longest-serving and most influential film development initiative. Supporting 45 diverse projects by Arab and international filmmakers from over 35 countries, this cycle continues DFI’s mission to amplify authentic storytelling and cultivate bold, independent voices worldwide. Since inception, the DFI Grants programme has backed more than 950 films from over 75 countries, nurturing first- and second-time directors through biannual funding rounds each Spring and Fall. This season’s recipients span feature narratives, documentaries, shorts, TV and web series—highlighting DFI’s inclusive support across genres and formats. The 2025 Spring cycle showcases remarkable diversity: 16 projects led by women filmmakers, 12 returning grantees, and five projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent. Notably, this year also welcomes powerful perspectives from Yemen and Sudan, with stories told through women’s voices, alongside strong Gulf representation from Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Selected projects explore deeply human themes—from a Baghdad actor’s struggle under Saddam Hussein’s rule (Madness and Honey Days), to poetic journeys of identity and resilience (Renoir, Imagine Me Like a Country of Love). Standout Qatari projects include Sari & Amira, a mythic narrative of survival set in Wadi Sakheema, and The Maker: A Journey of Bisht, chronicling a foreigner’s discovery of cultural heritage in Qatar. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute, commented: “Our Grants programme was founded to offer tangible support for original stories and important voices from around the world. These 45 films reflect the bold, diverse, and deeply human stories that challenge convention and are shaping the future of cinema. In a time marked by conflict, displacement and uncertainty, these stories offer urgently needed perspectives and affirm the role of film as a witness, a bridge and a call to empathy.” Beyond supporting production and post-production, the DFI Grants cycle serves as a catalyst for international collaboration, bridging talent from the Middle East with filmmakers from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. The 2025 selection includes projects from Japan, South Africa, India, the Netherlands, Russia, and beyond—reflecting DFI’s commitment to cinematic excellence without borders. With over a decade of empowering filmmakers and bringing untold stories to the global screen, the Doha Film Institute continues to solidify Qatar’s position as a cultural hub and creative catalyst. The 2025 Spring Grants cycle exemplifies the Institute’s enduring dedication to supporting visionary filmmaking that resonates locally and globally—stories that inspire dialogue, understanding and change. For more information, visit: www.dohafilminstitute.com
The Torch Hospitality Launches with Grand Ceremony and Unveils The Torch Club at The Torch Doha – The World’s Highest Gym in a Building
The official launch of The Torch Hospitality, a premium Qatari brand, was held at The Torch Doha, marking a momentous event that marked a new chapter in Qatar’s luxury hospitality. This brand steps onto the regional stage with a bold vision rooted in authentic hospitality, cultural pride, and world-class excellence. Attended by dignitaries, partners, media, and esteemed guests, the launch ceremony was a celebration of ambition, innovation, and a future-forward approach to hospitality. The Torch Hospitality emerges as a beacon of elevated service and local identity, committed to creating experiences that are not only luxurious, but deeply human, family-focused, and timeless. The brand’s journey began with The Torch Doha, the iconic architectural tower built for the 2006 Asian Games and situated in Aspire Zone. Once a symbol of sports unity and achievement, this landmark now serves as the foundation of a broader hospitality vision — one that extends far beyond hotel stays to curated experiences and elevated well-being. The Torch Hospitality proudly manages a unique and growing portfolio of properties in Qatar, each tailored to offer unforgettable guest journeys: In a highlight of the ceremony, The Torch Club was unveiled — an exclusive, members-only fitness sanctuary located on the 50th and 51st floors of The Torch Doha. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the highest gym in a building, The Torch Club redefines wellness with: The Torch Club is not just a gym — it’s a space that elevates both physical health and lifestyle to new heights. Mr. Wael Al Sharif, Area General Manager of The Torch Hospitality, remarked: “Today, we celebrate not just the launch of a hospitality brand, but the realiSation of a vision deeply rooted in Qatari excellence. The Torch Hospitality is committed to expanding its presence both locally and regionally, with experiences designed to meet global expectations while honouring local authenticity. And with The Torch Club, we are proud to elevate well-being—literally and figuratively—to unprecedented heights.” Mr. Abdulla Nasser Al-Naemi, Acting CEO of Aspire Zone Foundation and Director General of Aspire Logistics, added: “At Aspire Zone Foundation, we are pleased to be part of this special occasion marking the launch of a new brand in the hospitality sector. This brand carries a bold vision and embodies the highest standards of quality and excellence. We believe this step will enrich the hospitality experience both locally and regionally. It also reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance Qatar’s position as a leading destination.” With a strong foundation and visionary leadership, The Torch Hospitality stands poised to shape the future of hospitality in Qatar and beyond — uniting innovation, tradition, and elevated guest experiences under one brand. Discover the Torch. Experience the Extraordinary.
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort – Celebrating 30 Years of Pioneering Qatari Hospitality
Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading global hotel owner, developer, and operator, proudly marks a major milestone—the 30th anniversary of Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort, Qatar’s first beach resort. This momentous celebration highlights Katara Hospitality’s commitment to preserving Qatari cultural heritage, driving excellence in the hospitality industry, and supporting Qatar’s tourism development. Located along the picturesque coastline of Mesaieed, Sealine Beach Resort opened in 1995, ushering in a new era for the country’s luxury hospitality sector. Over the past three decades, the resort has evolved into an iconic destination, offering a tranquil escape where the Arabian Desert meets the Arabian Sea. As the first beachfront resort in Qatar, Sealine Beach holds a special place in the nation’s tourism journey. It has consistently delivered exceptional experiences to both local residents and international visitors, combining authentic Qatari charm with modern elegance. Since 2015, Murwab Hotel Group, Katara Hospitality’s standalone operating arm, has managed the resort with precision and expertise. Their leadership has been pivotal in elevating the resort’s reputation as a premier destination for family vacations, corporate retreats, and luxury stays in Qatar. To meet the evolving needs of today’s guests, the resort has undergone extensive renovations: Each accommodation offers stunning sea views, elegant interiors, and top-tier amenities. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort in Qatar, a romantic seaside escape, or a corporate retreat by the beach, Sealine Beach offers the perfect setting. Located just: Sealine Beach is a gateway to adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. The 30th-anniversary celebration, held on May 28, 2025, brought together leaders in hospitality, loyal partners, and media representatives. It served as a tribute to the resort’s legacy, its people, and its role in shaping the narrative of Qatari tourism. As Katara Hospitality looks ahead, it remains committed to enriching Qatar’s reputation as a leading destination for luxury travel, sustainable tourism, and world-class hospitality. Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort, continues to represent the spirit of Qatari innovation and excellence—past, present, and future. 📞 For reservations and inquiries, visit www.katarahospitality.com📧 Email: info@murwabhotels.com
