Al Abdulghani Motors Celebrates Young Talent at the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in Qatar
Empowering Youth, Inspiring Creativity, and Supporting Future Champions Al Abdulghani Motors, the authorised distributor of Toyota in Qatar, proudly hosted the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Award Ceremony at its state-of-the-art showroom in Lusail. The event marked the culmination of the 18th edition of the global art competition, celebrating the imagination, creativity, and dreams of Qatar’s young artists. The ceremony brought together over 500 participants from more than 200 schools across Qatar, along with their families, educators, and special guests, including celebrated Qatari athletes Ali Arshid and Cherif Younousse. The event underscored Al Abdulghani Motors’ ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent, promoting artistic expression, and inspiring the next generation of dreamers. A Canvas of Innovation and Hope The theme of the contest invited children to envision their “Dream Car”—a vehicle capable of making the world a better place. Submissions ranged from eco-friendly innovations and futuristic vehicles to designs that symbolised unity, compassion, and environmental consciousness. The contest was divided into three age categories: Three winners were chosen from each category and were recognised with certificates and exciting prizes during the event. Their artworks will now represent Qatar in the World Contest in Japan, where winners may receive prestigious accolades from Toyota Motor Corporation. Additionally, 25 finalists were acknowledged for their creativity, and three students were recognised in a special online voting competition hosted by Al Abdulghani Motors, giving the community a chance to support their favourite young artists. Inspiring the Next Generation with Qatari Champions Adding to the excitement, the event welcomed two of Qatar’s inspiring sports figures: The athletes engaged with students, shared stories of perseverance and discipline, and emphasised the importance of dreaming big—values that align with the spirit of the Dream Car Art Contest and Toyota’s global mission. A Legacy of Creativity and Social Responsibility Since its launch in 2004, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has inspired more than 9.4 million children from 144 countries. In Qatar, Al Abdulghani Motors continues to champion this initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. The contest not only celebrates creativity but also aligns with the company’s broader goals of empowering youth, promoting innovation, and achieving excellence in art, academics, and athletics. Driving the Future with Imagination The 18th edition of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest reaffirmed Al Abdulghani Motors’ belief in the power of youth and the importance of creative thinking in shaping a brighter tomorrow. By providing young talents with a global stage, the company remains dedicated to driving dreams forward and fueling a culture of imagination, passion, and positive change.
VCUarts Qatar Unveils Year End Show 2025 at M7 – A Bold Celebration of Creativity, Culture, and Innovation
Doha, Qatar – The future of art and design is here. Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a proud partner of Qatar Foundation (QF), has officially launched its highly anticipated Year End Show: Art and Design Now 2025. Hosted at M7 in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the exhibition is open to the public from May 5 to July 5, 2025. The opening night on May 4 welcomed over a thousand guests, bringing together Qatar’s most prominent names from the creative industries, academic leaders, business partners, and proud families of the graduating class. The energy in the room was electric as visitors immersed themselves in a diverse showcase of innovation, craftsmanship, and bold storytelling. This year’s exhibition features final projects by VCUarts Qatar students from across a wide range of disciplines: For the first time, work from Foundation Year students is also on display—offering a comprehensive look at the school’s creative pipeline, from first-year experimentation to thesis-level mastery. The exhibition is a celebration of cutting-edge creative expression. Students explored a wide range of media and techniques, including: Each piece is a reflection of the students’ diverse cultural experiences and their desire to shape the future of design through meaningful, often provocative, work. “This year’s cohort has produced an outstanding body of work that speaks to a wide array of ideas—from vibrant celebrations of Qatari culture to innovative designs that carry powerful messages of hope, sustainability, and social awareness,” said Amir Berbić, Dean of VCUarts Qatar. “The M7 space provides a dynamic and fitting backdrop for this diverse showcase of emerging talent.” The event also marked ‘Hayakom’, VCUarts Qatar’s annual welcome ceremony for newly admitted students. After touring the Education City campus, incoming students and their families visited the Year End Show to see firsthand the school’s vibrant artistic community and the possibilities that await them. Whether you’re an art lover, educator, collector, designer, or just curious about Qatar’s growing role in the global creative economy—this is an event you don’t want to miss. Experience how the next generation of artists and designers are shaping the future of visual storytelling and creative industries in Qatar and beyond.
Eight Doha Film Institute-Supported Films Selected for 2025 Cannes Film Festival
Doha, Qatar – A powerful testament to its ongoing mission of championing bold voices in global cinema, Doha Film Institute (DFI) proudly announces that eight films supported through its grants programme have been officially selected for the 78th Cannes Film Festival in 2025. The remarkable selection highlights the Institute’s steadfast commitment to nurturing original, underrepresented storytelling from the Arab world and beyond, showcasing a wide array of genres, cinematic styles, and diverse cultural narratives. This year’s line-up further cements Qatar’s position as a dynamic hub for international filmmaking. “We are incredibly proud to attend the 78th edition of Cannes with another selection of outstanding films supported by the Institute,” said Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute. “This recognition speaks to the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of amplifying diverse voices. Most importantly, they exemplify cinema’s profound power to connect us while revealing the beauty and complexity of our varied experiences.” Representing Global Cinema at the World’s Most Prestigious Film Festival The DFI-backed films will be showcased across several prestigious Cannes sections: 🎥 Official Selection Competition 🎥 Un Certain Regard
DESIGN ETHOS – “Design encapsulates eclecticism, boldness, detail, engagement with space”
In conversation with Aparajita Mukherjee, Alena Bulataya, founder of and the visionary behind Alena Bulataya Design Buro which specialises in both residential and commercial projects, in addition to 3D renderings, discusses her generic design inspiration and what drew her to take up designing Torte Delizia, a taut 350 m² restaurant space at Place Vendome. BL: Tell us about your design philosophy. Who are your biggest inspirations? Bulataya: The philosophy of my design bureau is to create unique and diverse projects. Eclecticism, boldness, attention to detail, and a deep engagement with space are the key elements that guide my work. I believe that design is not just about aesthetics; it is a language through which emotions, atmosphere, and even the history of a place can be conveyed. I draw inspiration from a wide range of sources – from classical architecture and art to modern urban solutions and technologies, from traveling across different countries to studying the success stories of remarkable individuals. I am inspired by the fusion of luxury and eclecticism, a bold approach to form, textures, and color. But my greatest sources of inspiration are the spaces themselves and the people for whom I design. I love discovering the character of each project, making it vibrant, thoughtful, and meaningful. Most importantly, I aim to surprise visitors, leaving them with lasting memories and deep impressions. For me, it is not just about following trends but about creating something that remains relevant beyond time — a space that interacts with people, shaping their unique aesthetic and emotional experience. BL: While designing the restaurant in Doha, what 5 factors played the biggest role, apart from client brief? Bulataya: First, the aesthetics of the Palace Vendome shopping mall, built in the style of classic French architecture. Second, the desire to reflect the rich Arab culture in the interior within a rapidly developing modern city. Third, a high ceiling that enhances the sense of scale and grandeur of the space. Fourth, panoramic glazing, offering a view of the picturesque inner courtyard of the shopping mall. Fifth, the restaurant’s focus is on unique desserts and pastries, which must be presented to the client with elegance. BL: Business-wise, what do you think Qatar contributes to your project profile? How is Qatar any different from the UAE, in the business domain? Bulataya: Qatar holds a significant place in my portfolio as a rapidly developing market that blends ambitious architectural visions with deep respect for culture and tradition. The restaurant project I completed in Doha was not just a design endeavor but an opportunity to create a space that reflects Qatar’s rich cultural heritage in a contemporary context. Unlike the UAE, where the business environment is more international and geared toward large-scale, fast-paced developments, Qatar emphasizes exclusivity, attention to detail, and the careful preservation of local identity. There is a strong focus on aesthetics, high-quality materials, and the seamless integration of innovation into traditional architecture. Working in Qatar has provided me with valuable experience in balancing local authenticity with modern trends, while also opening new opportunities for collaboration with leading global brands and design experts. BL: Where do you see your bureau in the next 3 years? Bulataya: In the next three years, I see my Design Bureau expanding its presence globally, bringing our signature approach to design to projects around the world. While we remain open to international collaborations, our primary focus is on strengthening our presence in the USA and the Middle East — two dynamic regions that inspire us with their architectural diversity and ambitious design opportunities. Our goal is to create spaces that seamlessly blend innovation, cultural context, and timeless aesthetics, delivering unique and sophisticated solutions for our clients. BL: When you take up a project what are the biggest turn ons and the largest turn offs? Bulataya: What inspires me is the trust and openness of the client, when synergy is created between us, allowing the project to be realized in its best form. I love working with spaces that have unique and complex architecture, challenging conventional approaches. I am drawn to unexpected concepts, where the project goes beyond the ordinary and becomes something truly innovative. I especially enjoy working with public spaces, where design not only enhances aesthetics but also shapes people’s experiences and emotions, creating new scenarios for interaction. What discourages me is a client’s narrow perspective, when they are not open to dialogue, afraid to experiment, and unwilling to trust professionals. Another significant challenge in project execution is dealing with unqualified contractors — builders, subcontractors, and technical specialists. Mistakes at the implementation stage can ruin even the most brilliant idea. That’s why it’s essential for me to work with a team that values quality and understands the importance of the design vision. Only then can we create a space that inspires, surprises, and stands the test of time. SIDEBAR: Short takes Best colour to light a place up: Tiffany Blue
Get Ready for the Most Anticipated Flash Sale of the Year at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas! A Limited-Time Offer You Can’t Afford to Miss – Unbeatable Savings Await!
Doha, Qatar, xx April 2025: The countdown has begun! Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas is about to launch the flash sale everyone’s been waiting for! For just 72 hours, enjoy an exclusive 33% OFF on room & villa rates, including breakfast and waterpark access – an offer that’s guaranteed to fill up fast! You have from 20 – 22 April 2025 to secure your spot for stays until 23 October 2025 – and with rates starting at just QAR 805 on weekdays and QAR 1075 on weekends, there’s no better time to book your dream getaway. This sale is the ultimate chance for travelers to escape to paradise without breaking the bank! Whether you’re craving a beachside retreat, family adventure, or a luxurious escape with your loved ones, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas has it all. But don’t wait – this offer won’t last long, and availability is limited! 10 Irresistible Reasons to Book Your Stay During the Flash Sale: An Unmatched Beachfront Escape: Picture yourself on 3.5 kilometers of pristine coastline, just an hour from Doha. Perfect for beach lovers, relaxation seekers, and adventure enthusiasts alike – all at your fingertips. Thrill-Seeker’s Dream – Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park: With over 19 attractions and 30 thrilling rides, Desert Falls is the ultimate adrenaline playground for the whole family! Get your heart racing with wave pools, surf simulators, and exhilarating slides – the waterpark is the perfect blend of fun and adventure. Ladies, This One’s for You – Exclusive Waterpark Days: Every Wednesday starting 7 May 2025, indulge in the exclusive Ladies Day experience at Desert Falls, offering a ladies-only retreat from 3pm to 9pm. Enjoy the park’s top attractions with your friends in a relaxed and private environment – free for resort guests! Adrenaline-Pumping Canyon Jumping Adventure: Experience the first-ever man-made canyoning course in the Middle East. With 17 pools, 10 slides, and 26 cliff jumps, this adventure will take your thrill-seeking to the next level! Dolphin Watching Cruise – Family Fun Awaits: Set sail on a memorable dolphin-watching cruise, where you can spot playful dolphins against the stunning backdrop of the Arabian Gulf. Signature Dining at World-Class Restaurants: Indulge your taste buds at some of the region’s top restaurants, including Dante Cucina Italiana, Levantine, Miss Wong, Souk Kitchen, The League Sports Bar & Restaurant, Nesma Lounge, and South Bay. From contemporary Arabic cuisine to authentic Italian and vibrant Asian flavours, there’s something for every palate. Private Villas with Butler Service: Opt for the ultimate luxury escape in one of the resort’s exclusive beachfront villas. Enjoy your own private pool, lush garden, and butler service, plus a stunning rooftop terrace for the ultimate family getaway. Relaxing Treatments at the Award-Winning eforea Spa: Rejuvenate and unwind with an array of luxurious treatments at the spa. From HydraFacialand soothing massages to invigorating Hammam ritualsand Rebalance therapies, discover the perfect escape for your body and mind. Kid-Friendly Fun with the Kids Club: Let the little ones enjoy endless fun at the Kids Club, with tons of activities and the chance to meet our beloved mascots, Lenny, Sami, and Sandy. It’s the perfect opportunity for parents to relax knowing their children are in good hands. Incredible Sports Academy – Unleash Your Competitive Spirit: Stay active with our state-of-the-art sports academy, featuring football pitches, basketball, netball, tennis courts, and more. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or just looking to have some fun, we’ve got you covered. Why Wait? Mark Your Calendars and Get Ready to Book Your Dream Stay. The clock is ticking, and this flash sale is bound to sell out fast. From 20 – 22 April, this is your chance to grab a limited-time deal at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas before it’s gone. Tell your friends, share it on social media, and make sure to book your stay before time runs out! Visit www.salwabeachresort.qa or call +974 4423 6666 to secure your booking today!
Qumra Master Darius Khondji underlines the power of storytelling through light – or the lack of it – to deliver authentic works of art
Doha, Qatar; April 6, 2024: Qumra Master Darius Khondji, the acclaimed Iranian-French cinematographer whose body of work (Se7en, Delicatessen, Uncut Gems, Mickey 17) has defined some of the most memorable visual experiences in contemporary cinema, highlighted the power of light and its its vital role in the composition of authentic art. Reflecting on his first collaboration with Qumra 2025, the annual industry incubator event by Doha Film Institute, he stated: “The institute is fantastic for filmmakers. I wish we had this in other countries.” During his two-hour master class, Khondji took audiences behind the scenes of his celebrated projects, including acclaimed filmmaker Shireen Nishat’s Tooba, a compelling work of art that “explores the movement of people from their homeland to an imagined utopia.” The powerful allegories about life that Khondji captured on screen for Tooba, he says, “come from the director. I remember her words when she was describing to me what she wanted to make with the film, and I just photographed. As cinematographers, we are like musicians, playing the sound and music given by the composer.” Khondji’s frames—dark and broody in Se7en (1995) hopeful and effervescent in Okja (2017)—all stem from his early passion for photography. “I remember going to the Louvre and taking pictures of the statues and looking at the light on them. I was very interested in minimalism and I was always reducing things to the most simple [forms] with light.” A two-time Oscar nominee, Khondji perfects his craft with a creative approach overtechnical, constantly innovating in a way that defies categorisation. His impressive versatility as a cinematographer is evident in The Lost City of Z (2016), capturing the darkness of the jungle in natural light, contrasted with the spellbinding climax in flames, and in the frenetic Uncut Gems (2019), shot in available light inside an apartment. Khondji—whose father owned several movie theatres—said his early memories of cinema revolved around “listening to soundtracks of Egyptian films, Italian neorealist films, mainstream European films, and Indian films. I remember having this background of sound and feelingTo this day, music is crucial to his work. “If I don’t like the music, we do some okay photography, but my mind won’t be in it.” By the time Khondji was 12, he was already making films. Fascinated by horror flicks such as Dracula and wanted to be a director, but eventually realized hi calling as a cinematographer. As a director of photography, his diverse journey also includes the music video for Madonna’s Frozen, for director Chris Cunningham. “Every frame was in his mind, and Madonna and I were just doing what he wanted. It was a great way to play with the medium, to experiment,” observed Khondji. Khondji says that “films have a painterly quality; it is all about how you translate your story onto the screen—whether using film or digital.” With regards to AI, he commented: “I love making film with people—I love having people around me, having a crew, having a director, men and women, and making films together. However, I don’t want to limit people’s minds; people should always continue discovering. “ Asked about his advice for emerging filmmakers who strive to stand out, he said that everyone has a distinct inner voice. “It’s important to understand and accept your difference. If I had to make a film myself today—and I’m not a young filmmaker—even for me, it would be difficult to have a unique voice. We have to find it within ourselves, then put it on screen.” On accepting his own differences, he added: “When I was a child, I wanted to be like everyone else. I wanted to look French or Parisian. It was only later that I realized I was different and accepted that my difference can be a good thing.” Whether working on his breakthrough black comedy Delicatessen (1991) with Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, or capturing the haunting visuals of David Fincher’s Se7en, Khondji believes that cinematography must serve a higher purpose: “It’s not just pretty photography, but storytelling.” This guides his approach across four decades of groundbreaking work, from arthouse classics to enduring contemporary masterpieces.
Qatar Charity extends Eid al-Fitr greetings
Doha, Qatar – March 26, 2025 As the crescent moon signals the end of Ramadan, Qatar Charity extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Qatari leadership, government, citizens, residents, and the Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr. The organization prays to Almighty Allah to accept the good deeds of everyone, grant them rewards, and multiply their blessings. Qatar Charity extends its heartfelt thanks to all who supported its Ramadan campaign, “Giving Lives On”, including generous individuals, companies, institutions, media, influencers, and volunteers, both within Qatar and internationally. The organization highlighted that these contributions enabled the implementation of essential seasonal projects such as Feed the Fasting, Zakat Al-Fitr, Eid clothing, and humanitarian aid, alleviating the hardship of millions in 40 countries, including Qatar. Qatar Charity noted that these efforts brought joy and relief to internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, needy families, orphans, and low-income groups. Qatar Charity urges benefactors to continue supporting the needy and the underprivileged with their generosity. It emphasized that charity and humanitarian work should persist throughout the year, particularly in light of the challenging and exceptional circumstances faced by many communities worldwide. The organization views this ongoing support as a testament to the deeply rooted generosity of the people of Qatar and its residents, a tradition passed down through generations.
Place Vendôme celebrates the spirit of Ramadan with vibrant community initiatives
Doha-Qatar, March 26th, 2025: During the Holy month of Ramadan, Place Vendôme set to captivate the hearts of the community with its “Share the Joy of Giving“ campaign. This inspiring initiative embodies the essence of generosity and compassion, offering a rich tapestry of charitable activities and immersive experiences designed to foster a spirit of giving and togetherness. At the heart of this campaign is the Kiswat Al Eid Collaboration that has run from March 5 to March 20. In partnership with Education Above All and Qatar Red Crescent, Place Vendôme invited visitors to donate new clothing for children in need in Gaza and Syria. This initiative not only supports a noble cause but also offers families a chance to engage in charitable acts amidst the festive ambiance of Ramadan. By working with retailers such as Matalan, part of BTC group who donated children clothing worth QAR 73,000, the collaboration reinforces the mall’s reputation as a premier destination that consistently sets new benchmarks in luxury retail, hospitality, and entertainment, as well as a role as a community hub for giving. As part of the campaign, the mall has hosted an array of events including a lively Garangao Night at Trocadéro Theme Park, featuring various kids’ activities. The culturally significant event brought families together and enhanced engagement, whilst strengthening the mall’s community ties, creating a memorable experience for all attendees. Celebrating the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan in true Qatari tradition, a special Media Ghabga was hosted at the Royal Suite of Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail. This vibrant event brought together Qatar’s esteemed media community, offering a heartfelt and joyous celebration in honor of the occasion. Until April 5, shoppers can also win big by entering the Spend & Win Campaign, where shoppers who spend QAR 300 or more will have the chance to enter a weekly draw to win QAR 100,000! The campaign includes a strong charity angle as winners are encouraged to “Share the Joy of Winning” and donate part of their winnings to Education Above All charity initiatives. Carole Sabbagha – Mall Manager of Place Vendôme: “This Ramadan, we are honoured to introduce our ‘Share the Joy of Giving’ campaign, a heartfelt initiative that reflects the essence of compassion and unity. At Place Vendôme, we believe in fostering a sense of togetherness, and this campaign allows us to extend warmth and support to those in need. We are deeply moved by the overwhelming generosity of our partners, retailers, and the community, who have joined hands with us to make a real difference. This is more than just a campaign—it’s an opportunity to create cherished moments of kindness and solidarity.” Sanjay Mehta, Group Marketing Director of United Developers: “Ramadan is a time of reflection and giving, and we are excited to launch ‘Share the Joy of Giving’—a campaign that merges philanthropy with engaging experiences. Through interactive activities and community-driven efforts, we aim to inspire our visitors and partners to contribute meaningfully. Place Vendôme is not just a shopping destination; it’s a platform for impactful initiatives, and this campaign reinforces our commitment to driving positive change while celebrating the spirit of togetherness.” As Place Vendôme welcomes the blessed month of Ramadan, the mall reinforces its position as a community-driven destination by integrating giving back into the heart of its initiatives. By encouraging active participation from visitors, partners, and tenants, the overarching campaign ensures a wide-reaching impact that resonates throughout the community. The strategic partnerships and curated events programme align with the mall’s broader goals of fostering engagement, building strong community relations, and reinforcing its reputation as a hub for meaningful experiences. Furthermore, the “Share the Joy of Giving“ campaign effectively brings shoppers and celebrators together during the last days of Ramadan and Eid, making Place Vendôme a vibrant and essential part of the festive season.
Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality Celebrate Gerhard Foltin’s Pivotal Role in Shaping Qatar’s Hospitality Landscape
Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality jointly hosted an honorary Suhoor at the Sheraton Grand Doha Hotel to celebrate Mr. Gerhard Foltin, a pioneering figure in Qatar’s hospitality industry who first arrived at Doha in 1977 to manage the iconic Doha Club. In 1982, Mr. Foltin became the founding General Manager of the Sheraton Grand Doha, where he played a key role in its planning and design. With a career spanning over five decades, his visionary leadership has left a lasting impact on the growth and evolution of Qatar’s hospitality landscape. The event celebrating Mr. Foltin was held in the presence of the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H.E. Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, and the CEO of Katara Hospitality, Mr. Nasser Matar Al Kawari, along with key industry figures and members of the media. Mr. Foltin expressed his appreciation for the recognition extended to him by Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality during the event. HE the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, expressed his gratitude for Mr. Foltin’s contributions. He said, “Mr. Gerhard Foltin’s leadership helped shape Qatar’s hospitality sector and set new standards of excellence.” Mr. Nasser Matar Al Kawari, CEO of Katara Hospitality, said: “At Katara Hospitality, we take immense pride in celebrating the individuals who have been part of our journey – those whose vision, hard work, and commitment have helped shape Qatar’s hospitality landscape. It is through such remarkable contributions that we continue our pursuit of excellence, I extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Foltin for his invaluable contributions. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward, honouring the past while shaping the future of hospitality in Qatar”. The evening served as a tribute to Mr. Foltin’s enduring legacy and a celebration of the people and partnerships that continue to shape Qatar’s hospitality sector. As Qatar Tourism and Katara Hospitality reaffirm their shared commitment to excellence and innovation, the event also highlighted the nation’s ongoing journey toward becoming a premier global destination for luxury and cultural hospitality, one built on the foundations laid by visionary leaders such as Mr. Foltin.
Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Secures Prestigious Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for Second Consecutive Year
Doha, Qatar – 25 March – Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park proudly announces its exceptional achievement of being awarded the Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for the second consecutive year. This prestigious honor reaffirms Desert Falls position as a global leader in aquatic safety, setting an unparalleled benchmark in the industry. Having made history as the first waterpark in the Middle East to receive this esteemed accolade, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park remains the only waterpark in the world to have earned this distinction back-to-back for the 2023/24 seasons. This remarkable recognition underscores the teams unwavering dedication to the highest safety standards. Among 850 facilities evaluated worldwide in 2024, only nine were awarded this top-tier honor, with just two located outside the United States. This distinction reflects the park’s steadfast commitment to safety, operational excellence, and its mission of Zero Drownings, ensuring a secure and enjoyable environment for every guest. The Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award is presented annually by Jeff Ellis & Associates, the global authority in aquatic safety and risk management. Reserved for the top 12% of facilities worldwide, the Platinum designation represents the highest level of safety compliance. To achieve this elite status, facilities must exceed expectations in Jeff Ellis & Associates’ Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP), which rigorously evaluates lifeguard performance, emergency procedures, and overall facility supervision. In 2024, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park successfully completed four unannounced safety audits, securing an Exceeds Rating in every single evaluation. This extraordinary accomplishment is a testament to the tireless efforts, professionalism, and expertise of the team, whose commitment to safety remains second to none. Adam Du Plooy, General Manager of Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, expressed his immense pride in the achievement, stating: “We are truly honored to receive the Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award for the second consecutive year. This recognition is a direct result of the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of every member of our staff. Safety is at the core of everything we do, and this award reaffirms our ongoing mission to provide the safest and most enjoyable experience for our guests. I could not be prouder of our team, and this achievement only fuels our drive to set even higher standards in aquatic safety.” The management extends its deepest gratitude and congratulations to every team member, whose unwavering dedication, expertise, and passion have been instrumental in securing this prestigious honor. As the park continues to uphold its legacy of safety excellence, this recognition stands as a milestone in its commitment to guest well-being, industry leadership, and world-class aquatic safety. Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park is part of Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, one of Qatar’s premier family leisure destinations. Nestled along the picturesque coastline, the resort offers a blend of world-class hospitality, exceptional dining experiences, and a wide array of recreational activities, including the water park. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort provides an unparalleled getaway for families, thrill-seekers, and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
