Eat Spain Drink Spain Debuts in Qatar – A Culinary Journey Like No Other
From Andalusian olive oil to Valencian paella, Spain’s finest flavours arrive in Doha this October! For the first time ever, Eat Spain Drink Spain is coming to Qatar, bringing the heart of Spanish gastronomy to Doha’s luxury hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and gourmet stores. October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar Over 15 days of flavour and culture, food lovers will discover the richness, authenticity, and creativity that make Spanish cuisine one of the world’s most celebrated. What to Expect Spanish-Inspired Menus & Tastings – Specially curated dishes and wine pairings by top chefs.Authentic Ingredients – Taste Manchego cheese (D.O.P.), Andalusian olive oil, Cantabrian seafood, bomba rice for paella, and more.Exclusive Culinary Events – From gourmet dinners to supermarket promotions, immerse yourself in the best of Spain.Cultural Activations – Experience Spain’s traditions and artistry woven into every bite. More Than a Food Festival – A Gateway to Spain Eat Spain Drink Spain is more than a campaign – it’s a celebration of Spain’s culture, innovation, and excellence in gastronomy. With past editions in the UK, Germany, the USA, and Singapore, the event has captivated audiences worldwide. Now, for the first time in the Middle East, it’s Qatar’s turn to savour the experience. Words from the Ambassador H.E. Dr. Álvaro Renedo Zalba, Ambassador of Spain to Qatar, shares:“Spanish gastronomy is a proud hallmark of our culture and a key component of our soft power. I have no doubt that visitors to Spain, and now Qatar, will be captivated by its richness and diversity.” Join the Celebration Whether you’re a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply curious about world-class cuisine, this is your chance to:Discover award-winning Spanish products.Network with culinary experts.Enjoy unforgettable dining experiences in Doha. Don’t just eat. Don’t just drink. Experience Spain.Mark your calendars: October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar
Snoonu Attracts Top Talents From Global Tech Giants
As Snoonu accelerates its footprint across the Middle East, the Qatari-born tech powerhouse is attracting top-tier talent from global tech giants like DoorDash and Rappi, reinforcing its position as a rising leader in the region’s digital economy. With bold ambitions and a clear mission to deliver smarter, faster, and more human experiences, Snoonu has made two high-impact hires: Anastasia Zdoroviak as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Estefania Read Elizalde as Director of CX Strategy & Operations. These appointments mark a turning point in Snoonu’s journey as it builds a world-class customer experience (CX) organisation. The company’s latest strategic hires reflect its commitment to innovation, diversity, and creating unforgettable digital experiences. “Bringing in global leaders like Anastasia and Estefania is not just about expertise—it’s about perspective,” said Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu. “Qatar’s tech ecosystem is becoming a magnet for global talent, and Snoonu is at the center of this transformation.” A seasoned CX leader with over a decade of experience across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe, Anastasia Zdoroviak brings an exceptional global lens to Snoonu. She previously led transformative customer experience functions at DoorDash and Rappi, two of the world’s most successful last-mile delivery platforms. With fluency in over a dozen languages and a passion for human-centered design, Anastasia is set to redefine personalised, tech-driven customer journeys at scale across the region. Meet Estefania Read Elizalde – Director of CX Strategy & Operations A U.S.-Mexico dual national and University of Cambridge MBA graduate, Estefania specialises in agile strategy and cross-functional CX operations. With a strong background in tech operations and new market scale-ups, Estefania is here to optimise Snoonu’s regional growth engine. Building the Middle East’s Most Multicultural Tech Team Snoonu’s CX team is now among the most diverse and multicultural in the GCC, representing a fusion of Silicon Valley mindset and Middle Eastern innovation. Backed by a new partnership with Jahez Group (Saudi Arabia)—one of the region’s leading digital platforms—Snoonu is fast becoming a central player in the Gulf’s integrated tech ecosystem.
Doha Film Institute Empowers Global Talent with 2025 Spring Grants Cycle
Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the recipients of its highly anticipated 2025 Spring Grants cycle, reaffirming its role as the region’s longest-serving and most influential film development initiative. Supporting 45 diverse projects by Arab and international filmmakers from over 35 countries, this cycle continues DFI’s mission to amplify authentic storytelling and cultivate bold, independent voices worldwide. Since inception, the DFI Grants programme has backed more than 950 films from over 75 countries, nurturing first- and second-time directors through biannual funding rounds each Spring and Fall. This season’s recipients span feature narratives, documentaries, shorts, TV and web series—highlighting DFI’s inclusive support across genres and formats. The 2025 Spring cycle showcases remarkable diversity: 16 projects led by women filmmakers, 12 returning grantees, and five projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent. Notably, this year also welcomes powerful perspectives from Yemen and Sudan, with stories told through women’s voices, alongside strong Gulf representation from Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Selected projects explore deeply human themes—from a Baghdad actor’s struggle under Saddam Hussein’s rule (Madness and Honey Days), to poetic journeys of identity and resilience (Renoir, Imagine Me Like a Country of Love). Standout Qatari projects include Sari & Amira, a mythic narrative of survival set in Wadi Sakheema, and The Maker: A Journey of Bisht, chronicling a foreigner’s discovery of cultural heritage in Qatar. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute, commented: “Our Grants programme was founded to offer tangible support for original stories and important voices from around the world. These 45 films reflect the bold, diverse, and deeply human stories that challenge convention and are shaping the future of cinema. In a time marked by conflict, displacement and uncertainty, these stories offer urgently needed perspectives and affirm the role of film as a witness, a bridge and a call to empathy.” Beyond supporting production and post-production, the DFI Grants cycle serves as a catalyst for international collaboration, bridging talent from the Middle East with filmmakers from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. The 2025 selection includes projects from Japan, South Africa, India, the Netherlands, Russia, and beyond—reflecting DFI’s commitment to cinematic excellence without borders. With over a decade of empowering filmmakers and bringing untold stories to the global screen, the Doha Film Institute continues to solidify Qatar’s position as a cultural hub and creative catalyst. The 2025 Spring Grants cycle exemplifies the Institute’s enduring dedication to supporting visionary filmmaking that resonates locally and globally—stories that inspire dialogue, understanding and change. For more information, visit: www.dohafilminstitute.com
Store974 Makes History as the First Arabic Brand to Represent Qatar at Computex 2025
Store974, Qatar’s leading name in gaming and tech retail, has officially put the nation on the global tech map by becoming the first Arabic brand to participate in Computex 2025—the world’s most prestigious and influential technology expo, held from May 20–23 in Taipei, Taiwan. A Landmark Moment for Qatar and the Arab World This proud milestone positions Store974 not only as a national success story but also as a Middle Eastern tech pioneer, representing the region’s ambitions, innovation, and talent on an international stage. “We are honored to represent Qatar and the Arab world at Computex 2025,” said Khalifa Al Haroon, CEO of Store974. “This is more than participation—it’s a statement that Qatar is serious about shaping the future of technology and gaming.” Capping off its powerful presence at Computex, Store974 won the Best Distributor Award for the second consecutive year, recognizing its excellence in retail innovation, global brand partnerships, and customer satisfaction. This achievement solidifies its position as a regional leader in gaming and technology distribution. Highlights from Computex 2025 Store974’s showcase featured: The booth was a magnet for international tech leaders, drawing attention to Qatar’s potential as a future hub for gaming, esports, and hardware innovation. Store974’s participation wasn’t just symbolic—it reflects a broader mission:To bridge the gap between the Middle East and the global technology landscape, encourage cross-border innovation, and open doors for regional players in the global arena.
Tata Motors Strengthens Presence in Qatar with Launch of All-New LPO 1622 Bus
Delivering Advanced Mobility, Unmatched Comfort, and Best-in-Class Total Cost of Ownership In a bold stride toward enhancing staff transportation in the Middle East, Tata Motors, one of the world’s most trusted commercial vehicle manufacturers, has officially launched its all-new LPO 1622 bus in Qatar. Partnering with Al Hamad Automobiles, its regional official distributor, Tata Motors reinforces its commitment to advanced, efficient, and reliable mobility solutions for the Qatari market. Euro VI-Compliant Innovation for the Middle East Designed specifically for staff transportation, the LPO 1622 is Tata Motors’ first Euro VI-compliant bus in the Middle East, aligning with global emissions standards and offering: These features deliver optimal passenger comfort, operational safety, and long-term value for fleet operators. “Qatar remains a strategic priority for Tata Motors,” said Mr. Asif Shamim, Head of International Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles. “With the LPO 1622, we bring higher profitability and next-level comfort for mass mobility.” Local Support, Regional Vision Mr. Mohamed Yousef Al Mana, Chairman of Al Hamad Automobiles, emphasized the strong partnership with Tata Motors: “With a nationwide service network, genuine spare parts availability, and skilled teams, we ensure maximum uptime and support for customers across Qatar.” This launch is a strategic milestone in Tata Motors’ plan to expand in the Gulf commercial mobility market, offering robust transportation solutions backed by world-class aftersales infrastructure. Tata’s Heavy Truck Range Also Gets a Boost In addition to the LPO 1622, Tata Motors introduced its enhanced Prima Euro V truck range – including Prima 4040.K, 4440.S, 4040.T, and 6040.S – built to support Qatar’s booming infrastructure and construction sectors.
Ibtechar Partners with AI Crafters to Accelerate AI Adoption in Qatar
Empowering organisations through cutting-edge AI solutions and supporting Qatar’s National AI Strategy In a bold move to strengthen Qatar’s digital innovation landscape, Ibtechar, a leading innovation consultancy, has announced a strategic two-year partnership with AI Crafters, a pioneering artificial intelligence firm. The collaboration aims to accelerate AI adoption in Qatar, enabling businesses and institutions to integrate AI into their operations and drive data-driven decision-making seamlessly. Building Qatar’s Future Through Artificial Intelligence This timely alliance supports Qatar’s National AI Strategy and Vision 2030, aiming to position Qatar as a regional hub for AI transformation. As AI reshapes industries globally, Qatar’s businesses face both opportunity and complexity in adopting the technology. The Ibtechar x AI Crafters partnership will address these challenges with:
A National Milestone in Pediatric Care
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Inaugurates Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Ward at Sidra Medicine Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, proudly announces the official inauguration of its state-of-the-art Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) Ward, launched under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. This marks a groundbreaking advancement in Qatar’s pediatric healthcare landscape — the country’s first dedicated ward offering bone marrow transplant services to children with complex blood disorders, genetic diseases, and immune system conditions. The new HSCT Ward is designed exclusively for patients under 18 years of age, delivering highly specialised care for conditions such as: Treatments include autologous (self-donated) and allogeneic (donor-based) hematopoietic stem cell transplants, also known as bone marrow transplants. Precision Medicine Meets Global Standards Sidra Medicine’s HSCT program is a cornerstone of its precision medicine strategy. The new ward features: This launch supports Qatar’s healthcare goals under Qatar National Vision 2030, including: As of mid-2025, the HSCT ward will begin autologous transplants, with preparations underway for allogeneic procedures. Future phases will include CAR-T cell therapies and Casgevy gene therapy for thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, CEO of Sidra Medicine: “The HSCT program strengthens our commitment to providing world-class, family-centered care—right here in Qatar.” Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Chief Medical Officer: “This initiative is a major step toward building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven health system in line with Qatar’s national goals.” The HSCT Program at Sidra Medicine is open to both Qatari and international patients. More than 50 children are currently awaiting transplantation, and new patient referrals are now being accepted. To learn more about our Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and HSCT services, or to refer a patient, please visit:🔗 www.sidra.org
ShipBee Secures QR855,000 in Pre-Seed Funding Led by GrowthX to Build AI-Powered Logistics Ecosystem
ShipBee, the AI-powered digital logistics startup transforming end-to-end delivery services across Qatar and the MENA region, has successfully closed its Pre-Seed funding round, raising QR855,000 from institutional and angel investors. This round was led by GrowthX (Angel VC) and supported by two individual investors, valuing the startup at QR3.57 million. In addition to external funding, ShipBee’s co-founders Tamer Raafat and Amer Azani have bootstrapped the company with over QR150,000, showcasing deep founder commitment to revolutionising logistics with smart technology. “This funding empowers us to scale our vision of simplifying logistics through cutting-edge technology,” said Tamer Raafat, Co-Founder & CEO of ShipBee. “We’re building an AI-driven ecosystem that makes logistics seamless for businesses and consumers across Qatar and the wider MENA region.” Launched in March 2024, ShipBee is building a one-stop digital logistics platform that integrates: ShipBee’s ecosystem enables real-time visibility, smart routing, scalable delivery operations, and seamless B2B and B2C logistics integration. ShipBee has already established major partnerships with industry leaders including Snoonu, Qatar Post, DHL, NEXX (China), and a growing number of local retail and service providers. Recognised for its innovation, ShipBee: This Pre-Seed round will support: Dr. Allan Villegas, a member of the QSTP executive board, has also joined ShipBee’s Board of Directors, further strengthening the company’s strategic direction. “As Qatar positions itself as a global logistics hub aligned with Vision 2030, ShipBee is helping lead that transformation,” said Hamad Al Hajri, CEO of GrowthX and Founder of Snoonu. “We believe in their vision and proudly support this next phase of growth.”
The Torch Hospitality Launches with Grand Ceremony and Unveils The Torch Club at The Torch Doha – The World’s Highest Gym in a Building
The official launch of The Torch Hospitality, a premium Qatari brand, was held at The Torch Doha, marking a momentous event that marked a new chapter in Qatar’s luxury hospitality. This brand steps onto the regional stage with a bold vision rooted in authentic hospitality, cultural pride, and world-class excellence. Attended by dignitaries, partners, media, and esteemed guests, the launch ceremony was a celebration of ambition, innovation, and a future-forward approach to hospitality. The Torch Hospitality emerges as a beacon of elevated service and local identity, committed to creating experiences that are not only luxurious, but deeply human, family-focused, and timeless. The brand’s journey began with The Torch Doha, the iconic architectural tower built for the 2006 Asian Games and situated in Aspire Zone. Once a symbol of sports unity and achievement, this landmark now serves as the foundation of a broader hospitality vision — one that extends far beyond hotel stays to curated experiences and elevated well-being. The Torch Hospitality proudly manages a unique and growing portfolio of properties in Qatar, each tailored to offer unforgettable guest journeys: In a highlight of the ceremony, The Torch Club was unveiled — an exclusive, members-only fitness sanctuary located on the 50th and 51st floors of The Torch Doha. Recognized by Guinness World Records as the highest gym in a building, The Torch Club redefines wellness with: The Torch Club is not just a gym — it’s a space that elevates both physical health and lifestyle to new heights. Mr. Wael Al Sharif, Area General Manager of The Torch Hospitality, remarked: “Today, we celebrate not just the launch of a hospitality brand, but the realiSation of a vision deeply rooted in Qatari excellence. The Torch Hospitality is committed to expanding its presence both locally and regionally, with experiences designed to meet global expectations while honouring local authenticity. And with The Torch Club, we are proud to elevate well-being—literally and figuratively—to unprecedented heights.” Mr. Abdulla Nasser Al-Naemi, Acting CEO of Aspire Zone Foundation and Director General of Aspire Logistics, added: “At Aspire Zone Foundation, we are pleased to be part of this special occasion marking the launch of a new brand in the hospitality sector. This brand carries a bold vision and embodies the highest standards of quality and excellence. We believe this step will enrich the hospitality experience both locally and regionally. It also reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance Qatar’s position as a leading destination.” With a strong foundation and visionary leadership, The Torch Hospitality stands poised to shape the future of hospitality in Qatar and beyond — uniting innovation, tradition, and elevated guest experiences under one brand. Discover the Torch. Experience the Extraordinary.
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort – Celebrating 30 Years of Pioneering Qatari Hospitality
Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading global hotel owner, developer, and operator, proudly marks a major milestone—the 30th anniversary of Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort, Qatar’s first beach resort. This momentous celebration highlights Katara Hospitality’s commitment to preserving Qatari cultural heritage, driving excellence in the hospitality industry, and supporting Qatar’s tourism development. Located along the picturesque coastline of Mesaieed, Sealine Beach Resort opened in 1995, ushering in a new era for the country’s luxury hospitality sector. Over the past three decades, the resort has evolved into an iconic destination, offering a tranquil escape where the Arabian Desert meets the Arabian Sea. As the first beachfront resort in Qatar, Sealine Beach holds a special place in the nation’s tourism journey. It has consistently delivered exceptional experiences to both local residents and international visitors, combining authentic Qatari charm with modern elegance. Since 2015, Murwab Hotel Group, Katara Hospitality’s standalone operating arm, has managed the resort with precision and expertise. Their leadership has been pivotal in elevating the resort’s reputation as a premier destination for family vacations, corporate retreats, and luxury stays in Qatar. To meet the evolving needs of today’s guests, the resort has undergone extensive renovations: Each accommodation offers stunning sea views, elegant interiors, and top-tier amenities. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort in Qatar, a romantic seaside escape, or a corporate retreat by the beach, Sealine Beach offers the perfect setting. Located just: Sealine Beach is a gateway to adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. The 30th-anniversary celebration, held on May 28, 2025, brought together leaders in hospitality, loyal partners, and media representatives. It served as a tribute to the resort’s legacy, its people, and its role in shaping the narrative of Qatari tourism. As Katara Hospitality looks ahead, it remains committed to enriching Qatar’s reputation as a leading destination for luxury travel, sustainable tourism, and world-class hospitality. Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort, continues to represent the spirit of Qatari innovation and excellence—past, present, and future. 📞 For reservations and inquiries, visit www.katarahospitality.com📧 Email: info@murwabhotels.com
