Money Expo Qatar 2025 Opens with a Power-Packed Day 1 — Global Leaders, Breakthrough Conversations & a Thriving Crowd Set the Stage
Money Expo Qatar 2025, the region’s most influential finance, fintech and trading event, kicked off at Hall 2, Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC) with an electric start. Day 1 delivered record-breaking footfall, powerful keynote insights, packed conference rooms, and dynamic interaction across the exhibition floor — firmly reinforcing Qatar’s position as a rising global financial hub. A High-Energy Start to the Middle East’s Largest Finance & Trading Event From the moment doors opened, thousands of traders, investors, fintech leaders, brokers, analysts, wealth managers, and financial institutions filled the venue, eager to engage with innovators shaping the future of trading and digital finance. The conference launched with a robust lineup of global speakers, covering the newest market trends in: Each session attracted standing-room-only crowds, showcasing the hunger for knowledge and the rapid evolution of Qatar’s financial landscape. Exhibition Floor: Innovation, Tech Demos & High-Value Connections Across the exhibition hall, leading international brands demonstrated the most advanced financial technologies: Exhibitors reported exceptional engagement, strong lead generation, and meaningful collaborations, as Qatar’s vibrant trading community continues to expand. Diamond Sponsor Testimonial: A Brilliant Partnership FFA Kings shared their powerful experience as Diamond Sponsor, stating: “Our experience as the Diamond Sponsor at Money Expo Qatar 2025 was phenomenal. The organisers supported us every step of the way, allowing our team to focus on what we do best — connecting with amazing people and generating outstanding leads. It was an advantageous partnership, and we can’t wait to be back next year.” A Milestone Event for Qatar’s Financial Future With retail traders, institutional investors, fintech founders, analysts, and decision-makers from across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, Day 1 highlighted the growing global attention on Qatar’s financial transformation. As the country accelerates its digital economy vision, Money Expo Qatar 2025 stands as a catalyst for:
Msheireb Properties’ CEO Wins “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025
Msheireb Properties — Qatar’s trailblazing sustainable real estate developer — has once again raised the benchmark for the global built-environment sector. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Ali Al Kuwari has been honoured as “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at the Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025, held at Address Sky View in Downtown Dubai. The Big 5 Global Impact Awards, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, celebrate global excellence in green construction, digital transformation, smart cities, and innovation. The accolade is judged by an independent international panel that recognises projects and leaders shaping the future of the built environment. A Visionary at the Helm of Qatar’s Greenest Urban Development The award recognises Eng. Al Kuwari’s pivotal leadership in driving Msheireb Properties’ sustainability vision—including the creation of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first fully sustainable downtown regeneration project, and one of the most ambitious smart city models globally. Speaking on the award, Eng. Al Kuwari said: “Sustainability is not a goal—it is the foundation of everything we design, build and preserve. From mobility and urban planning to heritage conservation and community wellbeing, our mission is to create spaces that are resilient, inclusive, intelligent and future-ready. This recognition reflects Msheireb Properties’ belief that sustainability is a holistic commitment embedded into every brick, every story and every experience we curate.” A Continued Legacy of Global Recognition This milestone builds on Msheireb Properties’ historic achievements at the 2024 Big 5 Global Impact Awards, where: Together, these accomplishments reaffirm Msheireb Properties’ role as a global leader in sustainable urban development, cultural preservation, and smart-city innovation. Driving Qatar’s Decarbonisation and Smart City Transformation Under Eng. Al Kuwari’s leadership, 2025 saw the launch of Qatar’s first large-scale portfolio decarbonisation strategy, covering over 100 buildings across Msheireb Downtown Doha. This transformative initiative accelerates Qatar’s path toward: Msheireb Downtown Doha has become a global showcase for: Its pioneering model is now referenced across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as a blueprint for future-ready cities. A Moment of Pride for Qatar The award reinforces Qatar’s rise as a regional sustainability leader, fully aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, and positions Msheireb Properties as a key catalyst advancing: • • Innovation-led economic growth
Qatar’s MCIT and GSMA Advance Partner to Accelerate National Digital Skills Development
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has announced a landmark five-year partnership initiative with GSMA Advance to strengthen Qatar’s digital workforce and accelerate the country’s digital transformation. The collaboration supports the Qatar Digital Academy (QDA) and aligns directly with the nation’s Digital Agenda 2030. As Qatar drives toward a knowledge-based economy, the Digital Agenda outlines an ambitious plan to create 26,000 new ICT jobs and generate an additional 40 billion QAR in economic value by 2030. Strengthening digital competency across the workforce is central to this mission. Empowering Qatar’s Workforce Through Advanced Digital Skills Under the new partnership, GSMA Advance — the global mobile industry’s training and skills division — will deliver enhanced, accredited education programs for QDA participants. These programs will feature flexible learning pathways spanning in-person, virtual, and blended formats, ensuring accessibility for professionals across sectors. As part of the collaboration, the QDA will join the GSMA Advance People Excellence Partner Programme, co-designing innovative training modules to cultivate next-generation expertise in technology, connectivity, and digital innovation. A Strategic Move Towards Qatar’s Digital Future Duha Al Buhendi, Director of Digital Society and Digital Competencies at MCIT, emphasized the initiative’s national importance: “The partnership with GSMA Advance strengthens Qatar Digital Academy’s efforts in developing competencies and promoting continuous learning. We aim to empower our workforce with the latest technological skills to drive innovation and achieve the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a regional hub for digital excellence.” Dr. Drew MacFarlane, Head of GSMA Advance, highlighted the transformative impact of the programme: “Alongside MWC Doha, GSMA Advance’s partnership with the QDA will help create a long-lasting legacy for the country, aligned with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030. By equipping the country’s ICT workforce with the latest digital skills and knowledge, we will further drive digital transformation and economic growth.” Driving Innovation, Competitiveness, and Inclusive Growth Through the partnership, GSMA Advance will bring world-class training methodologies informed by the GSMA’s global leadership in telecom policy, standards, and technological innovation. With a portfolio of expert-led, sector-specific accreditations, GSMA Advance aims to bridge skills gaps, nurture innovation, and foster workplace diversity. The initiative strengthens Qatar’s position as a digital leader in the region — empowering professionals, enabling industry excellence, and supporting the nation’s long-term transformation into a globally competitive digital hub.
MWC25 Doha Concludes with 9,500 Attendees, Cementing MENA’s Influence in Global Connectivity
GSMA MWC25 Doha—held in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)—closed its inaugural edition today after two power-packed days of business engagements, groundbreaking showcases, and high-level discussions. The event marked a historic milestone, positioning the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as one of the most influential forces shaping the future of global connectivity. Hosted for the first time in the MENA region, MWC Doha demonstrated Qatar’s digital leadership and its rising role as a driver of innovation, investment, and next-generation technologies. A Landmark Debut for MWC Doha MWC25 Doha delivered impressive numbers, reinforcing its success: These figures reflect a powerful debut and underscore MWC Doha’s emergence as a global stage for digital transformation across the region. Revolutionary Tech Demonstrations on the Show Floor MWC25 Doha brought future technology to life with extraordinary demos: • 4,300 km Remotely Driven Car The GSMA Fusion Elmo showcase allowed attendees in Doha to remotely control a vehicle navigating the streets of Tallinn, Estonia—over 4,300 km away—using 5G Standalone (SA) technology. This unprecedented demonstration highlighted the future of autonomous mobility and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). • 5G-SA Powered E-Sports Racing Esports enthusiasts experienced lightning-fast, ultra-low-latency racing powered by Ooredoo Qatar’s 5G-SA network. Curated with GSMA Fusion and Veloce, the experience showcased how 5G is reshaping gaming, entertainment, and immersive fan engagement. Global Leaders Share Vision for the Region’s Digital Future John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA Ltd., expressed his appreciation:“MWC Doha has proven what’s possible when a region steps forward with clarity, ambition, and investment. Doha and the wider MENA region are now catalysts for innovation, bringing together people, ideas, and partnerships that move our industry forward.” Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, reinforced the significance of the event:“Launching MWC in Doha at this pivotal moment gives the region a platform to show the scale of its digital ambition. The momentum here is real. However, ensuring digital progress reaches every community across MENA requires sustained collaboration. This inaugural edition is a major step in that direction.” Driving Inclusive Digital Growth Across MENA A key theme throughout MWC25 Doha was addressing the regional usage gap, with over 340 million people still offline despite mobile broadband coverage. The GSMA highlighted initiatives—especially through GSMA Mobile for Development—that aim to: MWC Doha became a crucial platform for advancing these shared goals and unlocking the full potential of MENA’s digital economy. Looking Ahead MWC25 Doha marks a defining moment for the region. With Qatar serving as a strategic host, the event successfully connected global decision-makers, innovators, and thought leaders—laying the foundation for new partnerships, investments, and transformative technologies. As the GSMA concludes its 2025 global event series, attention now shifts to MWC26 Barcelona, taking place from 2–5 March 2026, before the region gathers once again for the next edition of MWC Doha.
MWC25 Doha Spotlights MENA’s Rising Global Influence in Digital Transformation
The inaugural GSMA MWC25 Doha, held in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), has officially opened, uniting global leaders across government, technology, telecommunications, AI, and digital infrastructure. The landmark event underscores the Middle East and North Africa region’s accelerating digital transformation—projected to unlock US$470 billion in economic value by 2030. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, MWC Doha was inaugurated with an official ceremony attended by the GSMA’s Vivek Badrinath and John Hoffman, marking the first-ever MWC edition hosted in the MENA region. A Defining Moment for MENA’s Digital Future Across the Gulf and wider MENA region, governments and enterprises are driving sweeping digital transformation strategies powered by AI, 5G, cloud computing, satellite networks, and intelligent infrastructure.MWC25 Doha serves as a dynamic hub for collaboration, business acceleration, and future-focused dialogue—bringing together the world’s most influential technology companies, innovators, policymakers, and digital economy leaders. On the show floor and in expert-led summits, discussions spotlight how next-generation technologies are reshaping key sectors including: GSMA Leadership Remarks Vivek Badrinath, Director General, GSMA, emphasized regional momentum:“MWC Doha represents a major moment for MENA and the global connectivity community. Across the region, we see world-class investment in networks, AI, and digital services. This ambition is creating new opportunities for societies and economies. At the same time, large parts of the region remain offline, and closing that gap must be a shared priority.” Qatar’s Vision for Global Digital Leadership H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, reinforced the significance of hosting MWC in Doha:“MWC25 Doha reaffirms the growing prominence of the Middle East and North Africa within the global telecommunications landscape. It provides a wider platform for engagement with industry leaders, enabling alignment with cutting-edge advancements that will strengthen the region’s readiness for the next phase of connectivity.” Key Insights from GSMA’s Newly Released Reports Two flagship GSMA reports launched at MWC25 Doha—the Mobile Economy MENA 2025 report and Accelerating Digital Industries in the GCC & MENA—highlight transformative trends: Major Findings The insights confirm that Qatar ranks among the world’s highest adopters of AI, big data, and private 5G within enterprises. Driving an Inclusive Digital Economy While Gulf nations lead globally in advanced connectivity, more than 340 million people across MENA remain offline despite coverage availability.MWC25 Doha serves as a platform to accelerate digital inclusion through: Through its GSMA Mobile for Development initiatives, the GSMA continues to work with governments and industry stakeholders to bridge digital divides and empower underserved communities.
QTM 2025 Kicks Off in Doha, Welcoming Global Tourism Leaders to the Region’s Premier Travel Showcase
The Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025 opened today at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), marking the start of the region’s leading travel and tourism exhibition. Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, this year’s edition brings together international tourism boards, global hospitality brands, travel innovators, government leaders, and cultural institutions from around the world. The event was inaugurated in the distinguished presence of His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism—reinforcing Qatar’s national commitment to positioning tourism as a cornerstone of economic diversification under the Qatar National Vision 2030. Over the next three days, QTM 2025 will serve as a dynamic platform for industry partnerships, market insights, investment opportunities, destination showcases, and global networking. Qatar’s Tourism Momentum: Confidence, Growth, and Global Visibility Rawad Sleem, General Manager and Co-Founder of NeXTfairs, expressed gratitude for the event’s strong national backing: “QTM 2025 marks a defining milestone in reinforcing Qatar’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic tourism hubs. With over 300 exhibitors, 300 hosted buyers, and participants from more than 60 countries, the event reflects growing global confidence in Qatar’s tourism vision.” In 2024, Qatar welcomed over 2 million international visitors, with luxury hotel occupancy exceeding 75%, further underscoring the nation’s rising competitiveness in global tourism markets. The QTM Conference, curated with the World Leisure Organization, carries the theme “Evolving Travel: Culture, Sustainability, and Wellness in a Connected World.” It brings together influential speakers, policymakers, and experts to discuss future-shaping trends across: The conference opens with remarks from His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism. Global Participation Across 60+ Countries More than 12,000 visitors are expected to explore an enriched exhibition floor featuring: The expanded Global Village returns with vibrant cultural performances, artisanal crafts, and culinary showcases—strengthening global cultural exchange within Qatar’s thriving tourism platform. Strategic Partners Driving Qatar’s Tourism Vision QTM 2025 is organized by NeXTfairs and supported by: Visit Qatar’s Perspective H.E. Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji noted: “Visit Qatar’s participation as a strategic partner reflects our commitment to developing the tourism and travel sector and strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global destination. QTM offers meaningful prospects for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and future partnerships across the tourism ecosystem.” Industry Leaders Share Their Insights Chris K. Franzen, Managing Director, Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne: “The GCC remains a vital market for premium European destinations. QTM offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships and showcase world-class hospitality experiences.” Max Binda, Managing Director, The Ned Doha: “At The Ned, hospitality is about meaningful experiences rooted in community, culture, and creativity. QTM allows us to share our brand’s story and vision with global partners.” Sheikh Suhaim Ahmed S. J. Al Thani, Founder & CEO, Qissatec: “The Qissatec app is redefining cultural tourism by blending technology, storytelling, and innovation to bring Qatar’s heritage to life.” Ahmad Hassan Al-Obaidly, Acting CEO, Mowasalat (Karwa): “As Qatar’s mobility partner, we ensure seamless and sustainable transport experiences for visitors discovering Qatar’s cultural and tourism offerings.” Other distinguished partners—including Savoy London, The Plaza New York, Al Messila Resort, Mövenpick Hotel Doha, The Adria London, Sharq Village & Spa, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort, InterContinental Madrid, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, Somerset West Bay Doha, Jouri Murwab Hotel, Sealine Beach Resort, and The Westin Excelsior Rome—shared powerful reflections on Qatar’s rising influence as a global travel and hospitality hub. A Global Hub for Travel Innovation and Cultural Exchange QTM 2025 reinforces Qatar’s growing prominence as an international gateway for tourism, business events, and cultural diplomacy. As global travelers, industry leaders, and tourism authorities gather in Doha, the exhibition highlights Qatar’s commitment to: The exhibition runs through 26 November, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the future of global travel and discover new collaborations shaping the next decade of tourism.
Smart City Expo Doha 2025 Joins the Inaugural MWC Doha, Showcasing the Future of Urban Innovation in the Middle East
The fourth edition of Smart City Expo Doha (SCE Doha)—organised by Fira de Barcelona in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)—returns this year as a major feature inside the inaugural MWC25 Doha, marking a significant milestone for the region’s largest technology and connectivity event. From 25–26 November 2025, more than 30 global experts and thought leaders will converge in Doha to explore how digital transformation, AI, and next-generation technologies will shape the future of cities across the Middle East. Beyond Connectivity: A Digital Pathway to Smarter Cities Under the theme “Beyond Connectivity: A Digital Solutions Pathway to a Smarter, Thriving Future,” Smart City Expo Doha 2025 will spotlight the evolving intersection between technology and urban living—highlighting how intelligent innovation can unlock more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive cities. This year’s programme is built around five core thematic pillars: These focus areas reflect Qatar’s national ambition to become a global leader in digital transformation and smart governance, aligned with its long-term urban and economic development strategies. Global Thought Leaders Shaping Tomorrow’s Cities SCE Doha 2025 features an impressive lineup of speakers and innovators, including: Kent Larson – MIT A world-renowned expert in urban design, microhousing, and autonomous mobility. Larson will explore how technology, design, and human-centred planning can shape the next generation of cities. Jesús Serrano – AI & Innovation Specialist Serrano will outline how cutting-edge AI can move from concept to real-world application, delivering measurable impact in mobility, services, and urban operations. H.E. Reem Al Mansoori – MCIT Qatar The Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Affairs will share insights into Qatar’s nationwide strategy for urban transformation and smart city innovation. Ghanim Al-Muftah – Entrepreneur & FIFA Ambassador Known globally for his inspirational journey, Al-Muftah will offer a powerful message on inclusion, accessibility, and universal design as essential pillars of future-ready cities. A Landmark Feature at MWC25 Doha For the first time, Smart City Expo Doha will be integrated into MWC25 Doha, the GSMA’s first-ever edition in the Middle East and Africa.MWC25 Doha is expected to draw: This synergy underscores Qatar’s rising influence as a global hub for innovation, smart infrastructure, and connected industries. Smart City Expo: A Global Movement SCE Doha forms part of the worldwide Smart City Expo ecosystem—centred around the flagship Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona, which recently gathered: In 2025, local editions are also taking place in major cities, including New York, Curitiba, Puebla, Santiago del Estero, Santiago de Chile, Kuala Lumpur, Cartagena de Indias, and Tomorrow.City in Shanghai. A New Chapter for Qatar’s Digital Urban Future Smart City Expo Doha’s integration into MWC25 Doha reflects Qatar’s strong commitment to advancing smart urban development, AI adoption, and next-generation digital solutions—positioning Doha as a global testbed for bold, future-ready city models. As the world’s brightest minds gather in the capital this November, Qatar stands at the center of a transformative movement shaping the cities of tomorrow—smarter, more connected, more sustainable, and built for the future.
Katara Hospitality at QTM 2025: Four Years as a Founding Partner Championing Qatar’s Tourism Vision
Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading global hotel owner, developer, and operator, marks a major milestone as it returns for the fourth consecutive year as a Founding Partner at Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025. Its continued partnership underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting Qatar’s tourism strategy, strengthening the nation’s hospitality sector, and advancing the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030. As QTM 2025 gathers global tourism leaders, travel innovators, and international hospitality brands, Katara Hospitality’s influential presence goes beyond representing a distinguished portfolio of world-class properties. It stands as a powerful reaffirmation of Qatar’s rising position as a dynamic, world-class global tourism hub. Driving the Future of Hospitality in Qatar and Beyond The hospitality sector remains the backbone of Qatar’s tourism industry, playing a vital role in supporting economic growth, cultural exchange, and destination competitiveness. Katara Hospitality continues to elevate Qatar’s tourism landscape through: 1. Elevating the Guest Experience With exceptional service standards, luxury accommodations, and innovative dining experiences, Katara Hospitality reinforces Qatar’s reputation for refined Arabian hospitality—turning every visit into an unforgettable journey. 2. Accelerating Economic Diversification As one of the region’s largest hospitality employers, Katara Hospitality contributes significantly to job creation and supports a broad ecosystem of suppliers, innovators, and service providers, both locally and globally. 3. Showcasing Qatar’s Cultural Identity Through its hotels and hospitality teams around the world, Katara Hospitality serves as a cultural ambassador for Qatar, offering authentic experiences that highlight Qatari warmth, heritage, and vision. In the context of QTM 2025, Katara Hospitality’s continued leadership underscores the fundamental role of premium hospitality infrastructure in Qatar’s expanding tourism ambitions. A Vision Rooted in Purpose & National Pride “Our enduring commitment to QTM as a Founding Partner is a source of immense pride and a testament to our core belief: that Qatar is destined to be a global beacon of luxury and hospitality… We are not simply building assets; we are building bridges that welcome the world to Qatar’s doorstep.”— Shoaa Al Semaiti, Manager – Marketing & Communications, Katara Hospitality Global Partners Applaud Katara Hospitality’s Leadership at QTM 2025 Katara Hospitality’s participation brings together a distinguished collection of international hotel partners—all of whom praise the impact and importance of QTM as a global platform: Raffles & Fairmont Doha – Andrew Steele “QTM remains an exceptional platform to highlight Qatar’s leadership in the luxury space… We are proud to support the nation’s 2030 vision.” The Savoy London “We are pleased to unveil our newly redesigned rooms and suites at QTM 2025. It’s a fantastic space to engage with global industry leaders.” The Plaza New York – Sam Ioannidis “Qatar represents a strong strategic opportunity… I am honoured to participate for the second consecutive year.” Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne – Chris K. Franzen “We proudly represent Switzerland’s hospitality heritage. QTM strengthens our connections with GCC travellers seeking authentic and premium experiences.” Hotel Park Doha – Ziad Nasrallah “QTM celebrates innovation and excellence. We are proud to position Hotel Park Doha as one of Qatar’s leading outdoor leisure destinations.” Al Messila Resort & Spa – Kazem Shamas “QTM enables us to showcase our private villas, wellness offerings, and culinary experiences to a global audience.” Mövenpick Hotel Doha – Dan Sebastian “Each year, QTM inspires us to elevate guest experiences and connect with global markets.” Carlton Cannes – Pierre-Louis Renou “As a participant since day one, QTM holds a special place for us.” Somerset West Bay Doha – Prem Kumar “This reflects our shared commitment to exceptional hospitality and service.” Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh – Bassam Dzhaafar “QTM reinforces our commitment to memorable guest experiences.” Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan – Gianrico Esposito “We proudly represent Milanese elegance and look forward to expanding our partnerships across the GCC.” Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas – Petr Pisecky “This event showcases the strength and vibrancy of Qatar’s tourism sector.” InterContinental Madrid – Giuseppe Vincelli “QTM strengthens our connections with international travel partners.” Dana Club – Ahmad Hussaen Al Abdulla “We proudly support Qatar’s journey to becoming a global tourism leader.” Sharq Village & Spa – Alper Can Bulcum “We proudly represent Qatari hospitality and Ritz-Carlton elegance at QTM.” Sealine Beach Resort – Marko Jovanovic “We celebrate five years of QTM participation—each edition bringing stronger partnerships and new opportunities.” The Amstel Hotel – Tom Krooswijk “Our presence strengthens ties with the Middle Eastern luxury travel market.” Sheraton Grand Doha – Peter Katusak-Huzsvar “We proudly showcase our rich heritage and Michelin-starred experiences at QTM.” The Westin Excelsior Rome – Marc Lannoy “QTM provides meaningful opportunities to discuss sustainability, innovation, and wellness.” Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha – Vincent David “We look forward to highlighting our role in elevating Qatar’s all-inclusive luxury experience.” Jouri, A Murwab Hotel – Oksana Uzkureli “We proudly reflect the spirit of warm, genuine Qatari hospitality.” The Adria, London – Dominik Feller “QTM allows us to connect with partners who continue to make The Adria part of their London story.” A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Global Growth As Qatar continues its journey to become one of the world’s most influential tourism destinations, Katara Hospitality stands at the forefront of national progress, innovation, and global expansion. Through its leadership at QTM 2025, the company reinforces its long-standing mission: To elevate Qatar’s global hospitality footprint and create transformative travel experiences for the world.
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.
