Celestyal Sets Sail from Qatar for Maiden Voyage into the Arabian Gulf
Doha, Qatar 30 November, 2024: Celestyal, an award-winning cruise line that provides all-inclusive experiences has proudly confirmed its flagship, the ‘Celestyal Journey’, has arrived in Doha, Qatar, marking the beginning of the line’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season. This exciting new chapter kicks off with two specially themed F1 voyages taking in the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grand prix events. To celebrate the occasion, Celestyal, in partnership with visit Qatar, Qatar Tourism, Mwani Qatar and Qatar Airways hosted an exclusive event onboard the Celestyal Journey while docked at Doha Port on November 30. Local dignitaries, members of the media and influencers, and key partners gathered for a day of presentations, ship tours, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony, and a celebratory luncheon—all capturing the spirit of Celestyal’s famously warm hospitality. The line has previously announced that they will host a special five-day F1-themed event for global travel agents. This experience includes a three-night land stay with local excursions to the Arabian Travel Market, followed by two days aboard the Celestyal Journey while docked at Doha’s Grand Cruise Terminal. During this time, guests can attend the Qatar Grand Prix and enjoy an intimate speaking session with Formula 1 legends David Coulthard and Laura Winter in the ship’s impressive Amphitheatre. Subsequent departures will then comprise of seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Doha, up to March 2025. Each cruise features visits to the iconic destinations of Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi, an overnight stay in Dubai Marina, along with stops at hidden gems like Khasab and Sir Bani Yas Island. The Celestyal Journey will call Doha its winter home for the next three consecutive years, following a collaboration between Celestyal and Visit Qatar that aims to bring the region’s stunning offerings to the world. The remarkable ship boasts 630 suites and staterooms, seven restaurants, eight bars and lounges, two pools and jacuzzis, and an entire deck dedicated to wellness—complete with a spa, fitness, and wellness areas. After a multi-million Euro refurbishment in September 2023, the Celestyal Journey received additional upgrades en route to Doha, including enhancements to the Junior Dream Suites and the addition of Café Nation, a popular coffee bar introduced on its sister ship earlier this year. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “We’re incredibly excited to see our first ever Arabian Gulf season get underway. I want to thank our partners at Visit Qatar, Mwani Port Authority, Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways for their continued support and warm welcome to the region. We are confident that our special FI-themed cruises will ensure we have a roaring start to the season, while the Desert Days itinerary offers the very best of the local region. Whether guests are familiar with the destinations we visit or are sampling them for the first time, there will be a wealth of authentic experiences available to everyone.” The Celestyal Discovery will also join Celestyal Journey in the region at the end of 2025. She will sail three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha Port, Khalifa Bin Salman Port (Bahrain) and Dubai Marina Port, and four-night midweek ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Kasab. Chris Theophilides, CEO at Celestyal, adds: “We’re delighted to be commencing our season in the Arabian Gulf, with this momentous arrival into Doha. I want to thank our teams and partners who have made this a reality. It marks a significant milestone in Celestyal’s journey, operating a fully refreshed fleet across year-round operations and two regions. We listened to our guests, and 86% tell us they want to return after they have spent time onboard. And with our new Desert Days itinerary, as well as our additional Iconic Arabia itineraries on Celestyal Discovery from next year, we are expanding the many reasons for them to return to sea with us.” The Desert Days itinerary prices start from €359 / $409 / £319 / A$579 per person, representing a 67% saving, and the Iconic Arabia cruises start from €239 / £219 / $279 / A$389 per person, representing a 57% saving—both available at these rates as part of the cruise line’s Black Friday sale, ending December 3. For more information, visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170.
Double first for Uihlein with International Series Qatar win and Rankings lead
(Doha, Qatar, 30 November 2024) Peter Uihlein proved simply too strong at the US$2.5 million International Series Qatar today, marching to a five-shot victory at Doha Golf Club. The American, the leader since day two, shot a final round three-under-par 69 to finish on 16-under, for his second victory on The International Series this year. The result also saw him move to number one on The International Series Rankings. South African Charl Schwartzel came home in second place after a 68, while his close friend and compatriot Louis Oosthuizen tied for third two shots back with Filipino Miguel Tabuena. Oosthuizen fired a 71 and Tabuena a 70 – in the penultimate event of the season on the Asian Tour and The International Series. Peter Uihlein hits a tee shot in the final round on his way to a five-shot victory in the US$2.5 million International Series Qatar at Doha Golf Club. Photo by Asian Tour American John Catlin tied for 19th after a 71 to wrap up the Asian Tour Order of Merit title with one event remaining, next week’s US$5million PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Advisers. He is now second on The International Series Rankings having led for most of the year. Uihlein’s one-stroke lead at the start of the day became four at the turn. He was coasting before Schwartzel, playing three groups ahead, made a late charge with birdies on 16 and 17. Uihlein holed a clutch putt for par from 12-feet on 15 to leave the gap at three, and then birdied on 16 and 18 to put the icing on the cake. It was an impressive finish considering the wind was up again and the greens were hard and fast. He said: “Yeah, it was a good day and yesterday was good as well, it was a very solid weekend. I think I only missed a total of five greens for the weekend around here. When the wind is blowing, that’s pretty good. Felt pretty solid, felt in control. “The putt on 15 was nice, to get up and down there, and I got a nice break in the rough. It was funny, I tried to do a little different mindset for me this week, at least on the back nine. I saw the leaderboard, and that I had like a four-shot lead, and I was basically just trying to play match play against the golf course and par was a good score. I felt like if I could beat the back nine, I was going to be in good position, so making those birdies at the end was nice for my little mini goal.” Uihlein claimed International Series England in August by the sizeable margin of seven shots for his maiden title on the Asian Tour and The International Series. It looked like he was also going to win the International Series Thailand two months later, but he bogeyed the final hole to hand victory to Lee Chieh-po from Chinese-Taipei. Today’s victory is redemption for that near miss and gives the Range Goats GC player a chance of winning the rankings next week, although with a wealth of points on offer the race is wide open. “I feel like my game is trending, it’s just getting better,” he added. “Like stuff I’ve been working on even before, all that stuff feels like it’s kind of getting easier under the gun, which was nice. But yeah, it’s 1,000 points to the winner next week so it’s obviously all still up in the air.” Schwartzel’s round, which started with an eagle on the par-five first, was the lowest of the day. “It was a fantastic putting round today, I made so many feet of putts,” said the 2011 Masters champion. “It was tough again you know; the wind hasn’t stopped blowing for the last three days. And you know, the golf course has been quite penalising when you miss the fairways and it’s hard to hit the fairways with the crosswinds and stuff. So, it was always going to be a grind, and I needed a good putting round. I putted well and yeah, I was happy with my round.” South African Dean Burmester (69), India’s Anirban Lahiri (70), Eugenio Chacarra (71) from Spain, and Thai Suteepat Prateeptienchai (72) were next best placed on eight under. In the battle to retain playing rights for next year and finish in the top 65 on the Merit list Australian Jed Morgan was the big mover. He carded a 71 to finish joint 37th and move from 66th to 64th to ensure he is safe for the new season.
Tennis icon Novak Djokovic has now embraced the sport firsthand with Premier Padel
Tennis icon Novak Djokovic – who recently highlighted padel’s rapid growth and its impact on tennis – has now embraced the sport firsthand with Premier Padel. He joined Premier Padel Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi for a padel match at the Premier Padel courts in Doha, once again showing the sport’s dynamic appeal. This also follows Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, George Russell, Pierre Gasly, Oscar Piastri all taking a break from the track to visit the same Premier Padel x Qatar Airways courts in Doha ahead of the Formula 1 Qatar GP.
Visit Qatar and Msheireb Properties to Host QatarGP activation at Msheireb Downtown Doha
Doha, Qatar, 26 November 2024 – Visit Qatar, in partnership with Msheireb Properties, Lusail International Circuit, announced the launch of a QatarGP activation at Msheireb Downtown Doha’s iconic Barahat Msheireb, coinciding with the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2024. The activation will operate from November 29 to December 1, offering visitors a vibrant venue to experience the excitement of Formula 1 racing in the heart of Qatar’s capital. The three-day activation will feature live screenings of all racing sessions, including practice runs, qualifying rounds, the sprint race, and Sunday’s main event. Designed as a family-friendly destination, the activation will complement the on-track action at Lusail International Circuit with interactive activities and entertainment. Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdullah, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Msheireb Properties, said: “Following the remarkable success of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Fan Zone at Barahat Msheireb, which attracted thousands of football enthusiasts, we are delighted to once again transform our sustainable downtown into a hub of sporting excitement. The QatarGP activation builds on our proven track record of hosting world-class entertainment events that bring communities together in the heart of Doha.” Mr. Jassim Mahmoud, PR and Communication Director at Visit Qatar, said: “Together with our esteemed partners at Msheireb Properties and Lusail Circuit we are delighted to bring the QatarGP Activation to life, offering an exciting opportunity for everyone to enjoy the full Formula 1 experience right here in the heart of Msheireb. This fan zone is designed to be the ultimate destination for fans, residents and visitors alike, to come together and fully immerse themselves in the thrilling world of Formula 1.” Visitors to the activation will experience the thrill of Formula 1 through state-of-the-art racing simulators and an engaging RC car track. The venue will showcase an impressive display of classic and modern racing cars, while a dedicated entertainment area will feature live DJ performances throughout the evening. The activation’s design incorporates both lounge and picnic-style seating areas, creating a comfortable environment for families and friends to enjoy the races together. Entry is free for all visitors, and the QatarGP activation will be open daily from 2:30 PM to 10:00 PM, with live screenings starting from 4:00 PM. The race schedule includes Practice Sessions on Friday, November 29 (2:30 PM – 7:30 PM), Qualifying and Sprint Race on Saturday, November 30 (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM), and the Main Race on Sunday, December 1 (from 8:00 PM).
Head of The International Series, Singh says Qatar is ‘truly becoming a global hub of sport
(Doha, Qatar, 26 November 2024) International Series Qatar tees of this week at Doha Golf Club for the penultimate event of season on the Asian Tour and in a pre-tournament press conference hosted by dignitaries from the Qatar Golf Association, Rahul Singh, The Head of The International Series, highlighted the importance of the event to the global golfing ecosystem. Major champions Patrick Reed, Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel are among 18 LIV Golf League stars in the field for the event this year, the penultimate event of the season which will have a huge bearing on the all-important rankings race which offers players a pathway onto the 2025 LIV Golf roster. This will be the second International Series Qatar event that has taken place with 2023 International Series Rankings winner Andy Ogletree winning the event last year. Singh said: “I’d like to start by thanking the Qatar Golf Association, the Qatar Olympic Committee, and all of the members and staff of the QGA and the Doha Golf Club for welcoming us back for the second edition of the International Series Qatar. “It’s a very exciting week for us to be over here with so much sport happening in this great country. This week, with football, boxing, F1 and world class golf, this is truly becoming a hub of global sport, and this is a great week for us to be over here. “The importance of this week in the series cannot be forgotten, and the field that we have this year is highly reflective of the importance of the tournament. In 2023 we had a limited selection of players who represented the LIV Golf League but this year, we have 18 players made up of Major winners, Presidents Cup winners and Ryder Cup players, all of whom will be playing alongside the best of the Asian Tour for these positions.” Fahad Nasser Al Naimi, General Secretary, QGA said: “”This tournament is being held for the second time, and this edition is distinguished by its high level of competition, featuring 120 of the best professional players, including 18 players from the LIV Golf League. “We are fortunate to have these players participating in this tournament. We expect this edition to be exceptional both in terms of organization and technical quality. “Golf is always closely linked to promoting tourism, as it plays a significant role in enhancing the tourism sector in any country hosting major tournaments. It is worth noting that this tournament will be broadcast on approximately 20-25 international channels, with four hours of live coverage daily over four days. “Doha Golf Club’s course is in excellent condition, and golf fans are always eager to follow their favourite players, motivating them to attend, cheer, and interact with them up close.” International Series Qatar takes place at Doha Golf Club from 27-30 November. For tickets and further information, please visit www.internationalseries.com
OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro Launching Globally
November 11, 2024, SHENZHEN – OPPO, a global leader in smart device innovation, is gearing up for the official unveiling of its highly anticipated Find X8 Series and ColorOS 15. The global launch event will be held on November 21, 2024, in Bali, Indonesia. This milestone event will introduce the cutting-edge Find X8 and Find X8 Pro, promising to redefine the standards of flagship smartphones. “Flagship camera phones with advanced zoom capabilities, superior performance, long battery life, and AI tools have often been hindered by bulky designs. The Find X8 Series changes that narrative. The Find X8 is a lightweight yet powerful device with an extended battery life and periscope zoom, while the Find X8 Pro delivers even greater zoom capabilities and premium performance without the heft. Paired with the seamless ColorOS 15, the Find X8 Series represents a leap forward for the smartphone industry,” said Pete Lau, OPPO’s Senior Vice President and Chief Product Officer. The Find X8 packs an impressive array of features into an ultra-slim and lightweight design. At just 7.85mm thin and 193g, it incorporates a compact periscope zoom camera within a sleek and refined body. Its 6.59″ display, framed by an ultra-narrow 1.45mm symmetrical border, ensures an immersive yet manageable size. Finished with a fingerprint-resistant diffuse texture, the device is available in Star Grey, Space Black, and Shell Pink, combining aesthetics with functionality. For enthusiasts of larger screens, the Find X8 Pro is an unmatched option. Featuring a 6.78″ display with quad-curved glass on both sides, it brings an ultra-immersive viewing experience to your hands. It also introduces OPPO’s dual-periscope telephoto camera to global markets, pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography. Available in Space Black and Pearl White, each Pearl White unit boasts a distinctive pearlescent design, making every device unique. Both models continue OPPO’s legacy of groundbreaking camera innovation. Equipped with the Hasselblad Master Camera System, the Find X8 Series features AI Telescope Zoom, enabling exceptional clarity and precision at 10x zoom and beyond. The Lightning Snap feature captures up to seven images per second while maintaining top-notch processing quality. Under the hood, the Find X8 Series delivers enduring performance. The Find X8 comes with a robust 5630mAh silicon-carbon battery, while the Find X8 Pro boasts a 5910mAh counterpart. Powered by the advanced MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset, these devices ensure smooth and efficient operation throughout the day. The Find X8 Series is complemented by ColorOS 15, which enhances the user experience with fluid visuals, intuitive design, and smart AI-powered tools that simplify daily tasks. Stay tuned for the full reveal of the OPPO Find X8 Series and ColorOS 15 at the upcoming global launch event.
FIA President meets with Qatar Prime Minister to discuss country’s motor sport and mobility activity
Ahead of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix taking place later this month, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with Qatar’s Prime Minister His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and the Minister of Sports and Youth, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani. Top of the agenda was Qatar’s key role in global motor sport alongside the country’s innovation and education in mobility. Advocacy and impact of sustainability in the region were discussed at length – a key consideration for all parties who confirmed their mutual commitment to advancing sustainable practices and raising awareness. The ongoing collaboration between Qatar, the FIA, and Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) ensures the continued growth of motor sport, and success in the mobility and transport sectors, across the region and globally. From the end of November to mid-December, the world’s eyes will be drawn to Qatar and the Lusail International Circuit in the year of its 20th anniversary. From hosting the penultimate race of the 2024 F1 season, to witnessing top karting talents from across the Middle East and North Africa compete in six thrilling categories at the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup. The FIA is committed to increasing accessibility and diversity across motor sport, ensuring equal opportunities for equal talent, with the global grassroots programme crucial to ensuring the continued success of motor sport in the Middle East. Alongside sporting matters, the parties discussed the FIA’s support in mobility and transport in the region including the concerted efforts that have been made in the country to increase road traffic safety and boost economic growth by adopting comprehensive road safety strategies. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, said: “My thanks to the Prime Minister of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani for his generous welcome. We had a very productive meeting to discuss the future of global motor sport and mobility. “It was also good to discuss a number of grassroots development initiatives across motor sport and mobility with the Minister of Youth and Sports, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani. “I am proud of the close relationship that has been built by the FIA and our regional Member Club Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, and the partnership we have fostered to ensure ongoing innovation and collaboration in the region. My thanks to QMMF President Mr. Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Latif Al Mannai. “I look forward to the upcoming events taking place in Qatar and spending more time in this vibrant country.” “Welcoming FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to Lusail International Circuit today reflects the strength of Qatar’s motor sport journey in 2024,” said Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of QMMF and Lusail International Circuit. “Hosting other prestigious events such as the International BAJA, the International Rally, the World Endurance Championship, and the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup underscores our commitment to advancing excellence in motorsport. Our focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity aligns with Qatar’s vision to inspire progress and nurture talent, ensuring the region’s enduring impact on the global motorsport landscape.”
GSMA M360 MENA opens in Doha with AI and digital partnerships at the forefront
Three regional partners have joined the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, while the GSMA’s latest Mobile Economy MENA report highlights significant genAI adoption across the region 18 November 2024, Doha: Under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, M360 MENA opened its doors in Doha today with Host Sponsor Ooredoo Qatar, in partnership with the GSMA and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Qatar (MCIT), and Media City Qatar. As mobile services are projected to contribute $360 billion to the region’s GDP, the event brings together leaders from the industry, technology, telecoms, and government sectors to foster the advancement of the MENA digital economy. The Opening Ceremony was led by Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, alongside Ooredoo Group CEO Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo; Ooredoo Qatar’s CEO, Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Bin Mohammad Al Thani; and GSMA’s Head of MENA, Jawad Abbassi, with attendance from high-level dignitaries, ministers, government officials, and esteemed delegates from across the region. Following the Opening Ceremony, a delegation of senior executives from Ooredoo and GSMA, embarked on an exhibition tour. The tour featured visits to key exhibits, including the Ooredoo booth, Media City Qatar, Invest Qatar, SAP, and Google, where they explored innovative solutions aimed at accelerating digital transformation. Key topics on this year’s M360 MENA agenda include the 5G monetisation, the importance of building AI-ready networks, the smart projects unlocked by digital innovations, and the digital partnerships key to advancing the region’s digital economy. During his opening remarks, The State of Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, said: “Guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030, our country is committed to creating a knowledge-based economy, with technology and digital transformation positioned at the core of our sustainable development aspirations. M360 MENA in Doha stands as a testament to The State of Qatar’s enduring commitment to fostering digital innovation and collaboration across the MENA region. We truly believe that by embracing advanced technologies like AI and 5G, and by building strategic digital partnerships, we can drive sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life for all citizens. This event is a valuable platform to discuss and strategize the digital future of MENA to support its advancement.” Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chief Executive Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, commented: “Hosting M360 MENA in Doha reflects Ooredoo Qatar’s commitment to advancing digital transformation across the region. We are proud to be at the forefront, leading initiatives in AI and 5G that have a direct impact on enhancing connectivity and quality of life for the people of Qatar. By collaborating with the GSMA and our regional partners, we are dedicated to creating a robust digital ecosystem that supports our nation’s vision of becoming a leader in technology and innovation. Together, we are laying the foundations for a future where digital connectivity empowers communities and strengthens our economy.” Taking to the stage for keynote 1, the GSMA’s Director General, Mats Granryd, said: “It’s fantastic to be hosting M360 MENA in Doha for the first time, and we look forward to exploring the powerful potential of AI, digital partnerships, and mobile connectivity for MENA. With mobile services projected to contribute $360 billion to the region’s GDP by 2030, M360 MENA stands as a powerful platform for collaboration and the innovation that will advance the region’s digital transformation.” Ooredoo and Batelco are the latest partners to join the GSMA Open Gateway initiative in the Middle East region. These latest additions mean 67 mobile operator groups, representing 279 networks and three-quarters of global mobile connections, have now signed up to the initiative, alongside many of the world’s leading technology companies. Early Open Gateway implementations in MENA have focussed on fraud prevention and security, supporting the region’s drive towards digital collaboration. Launched at MWC Barcelona 2023, the GSMA Open Gateway is a framework of network APIs that provides developers with universal access to operator networks, designed to speed up the creation of new digital products and services. Mobile Economy MENA 2024 report The GSMA launched its Mobile Economy MENA 2024 report, which forecasts that 5G will account for half of all mobile connections in MENA by 2030. The report finds that genAI adoption is gaining significant momentum across MENA, with operators leveraging AI to enhance customer service, optimise network performance, and drive new business opportunities. Other findings include: This year’s M360 MENA also introduced the GSMA Foundry AI Use Case Library, featuring over 60 real-world AI use cases from across the globe, including Huawei, ZTE, Ericsson, Nokia, and IBM. The library showcases how AI is powering mobile technology in areas from customer service to network planning, with the GSMA aiming to rapidly expand the library with use cases across the mobile ecosystem. Presented by the GSMA, M360 is a series of global events that unify the regional mobile ecosystem. The events aim to discover, develop and deliver innovation that serves as the foundation for positive business environments and societal change. The calendar of GSMA events returns next year, beginning with MWC Barcelona which returns to the Fira Gran Via between 3-6 March 2025. Find out more about the GSMA here.
Sidra Medicine Launches Masterclasses Ahead of Precision Medicine and Future of Genomics 2024 Summit
17 November 2024, Doha, Qatar – In anticipation of the upcoming Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics 2024 Summit (PMFG 2024), Sidra Medicine, a Qatar Foundation entity, will host a series of specialized masterclasses from December 1-2, 2024 at its premises in Doha. These masterclasses are designed to provide healthcare professionals and researchers with practical skills and insights that align with core PMFG 2024 themes. Three masterclasses are open for registration: Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from leading global experts, gaining hands-on knowledge in areas such as gene curation, genetic counseling, and the use of AI in Biomedical research. This prelude to the main PMFG 2024 Summit provides a unique platform for in-depth learning and networking among professionals invested in advancing precision medicine and genomics. Speakers and ParticipantsThe masterclasses will host several high-profile speakers and participants, including Dr. Marina DiStefano, (ClinGen Principal Investigator, Broad Institute/MIT, USA), Dr. Peter Owotoki, (Co-Founder and CEO of vitafluence.ai), and Dr. Ammira Al-Shabeeb Akil, (Principal Investigator and the lead of the Genetic and Metabolic Disorders Clinical Research Program at Sidra Medicine). Dr. Ammira Al-Shabeeb Akil, Principal Investigator, the organizer of the masterclasses and the lead of the Genetic and Metabolic Disorders Clinical Research Program at Sidra Medicine and Organizing Chair of PMFG 2024, said: “The masterclasses provide an immersive runup to PMFG 2024, focusing on actionable insights and hands-on sessions. Attendees will gain practical expertise that they can directly apply in their fields, as well as engage in collaborative discussions to advance precision medicine in the Middle East and beyond.” Connecting Practical Knowledge to Summit ThemesThese masterclasses deepen understanding of the themes spotlighted at PMFG 2024, running from December 3-5, 2024. Participants will explore genomics applications for personalized care, cutting-edge genetic therapies, and innovative diagnostic solutions which will create a cohesive learning experience in preparation for the Summit’s broader discussions on precision healthcare advancements. Register NowTo register for the PMFG 2024 masterclass, please visit: Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics 2024 Summit – Master Classes – Online Single Registration. To register for the PMFG 2024 summit, please visit: Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics 2024 Summit (PMFG 2024) – Online Single Registration.
Msheireb Downtown Doha Welcomes More Than 1500 Attendees to Qatar’s Largest Outdoor Cybersecurity Event
Msheireb Properties’ first-ever outdoor cybersecurity conference, held in partnership with White Hat Desert (WHD), brought more than 1500 participants from across multiple sectors to Barahat Msheireb yesterday. The event featured 15 speakers, five specialized Cybersecurity Villages, and CTF “Capture the flag” competition to Barahat Msheireb, and representation from energy, banking, construction, healthcare, and broadcasting companies, setting a new benchmark for cybersecurity events in Qatar. “As a smart tech leader in Qatar, hosting this groundbreaking cybersecurity is part of our commitment to introducing technological innovation and digital safety among the community,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Korbi, Senior ICT Manager at Msheireb Properties, during his welcome remarks. “Through our sophisticated network of over 650,000 connected IoT devices and state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, we understand firsthand the critical importance of cybersecurity in modern urban environments. This event demonstrates our dedication to sharing this knowledge with both industry professionals and general public in Qatar.” The morning industry session delivered comprehensive insights across four key themes: Emerging Threats, Artificial Intelligence, Risk Management, and Cyber Strategy. The event featured five distinct Cybersecurity Villages, each offering specialised experiences. The Digital Forensics & Incident Response village provided hands-on training with security experts, while the Application Security section offered a fundamental understanding of secure development practices. Participants engaged with offensive security methods in the Penetration Testing area and explored malware analysis in the Reverse Engineering section. The WHD Clinic served as a community hub for networking, while the Qatar Scientific Club showcased innovative demonstrations in robotics and electronics. The evening session transformed Barahat Msheireb into an interactive technology playground, featuring exciting competitions and demonstrations. Attendees witnessed Sumo Robot battles and high-speed drone racing competitions. Gaming enthusiasts participated in an intense Fortnite tournament while aspiring technologists engaged in circuit board-building workshops. Live hacking demonstrations captured the audience’s attention, providing real-world examples of cyber threats and defense mechanisms. “The diversity of activities and depth of expertise shared today reflects our commitment to making cybersecurity accessible to everyone,” added Eng. Al Korbi. “From the technical discussions about AI-driven attacks and ransomware in the morning sessions to the engaging family activities in the evening, we’ve succeeded in creating a comprehensive platform for cybersecurity awareness and education.” The event was supported by leading technology companies, with Malomatia, Microsoft, Google, TrendMicro and Zscaler among the key sponsors showcasing cutting-edge security solutions. The success of this inaugural outdoor cybersecurity event has already led to discussions about making it an annual fixture in Qatar’s technology calendar.
