Qatar Tourism welcomes over 190,000 cruise passengers by mid-season
Qatar Tourism has announced remarkable mid-season success for the 2024/2025 cruise season, reaffirming the State of Qatar’s position as a growing hub for cruise tourism in the GCC region. By January 20th, 2025, Qatar welcomed over 53 cruise ships, bringing an impressive 191,944 cruise passengers to Qatar’s shores. This includes 20,951 turnaround passengers who have used Doha as a starting point for their cruise journeys. To date, visitors from Germany lead arrival figures with (30.2%), followed by Russia at (10.8%) and Italy at (9.2%). The top 10 nationalities collectively account for 69.2% of the total number of passengers. This season was further enriched by the arrival of four new cruise ships visiting Doha for the first time including Resorts World One, MSC Euribia, Celestyal Journey, and Costa Smeralda. Additionally, Norwegian Sky is expected to call on 12 April 2025. Costa Smeralda, ranked the 8th largest cruise ship in the world scheduled to make 10 calls this season, bringing an estimated total of 82,000 passengers. Omar Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector, at Qatar Tourism, said: “The impressive growth of Qatar’s cruise sector is a testament to our strategic vision as part of the National Tourism Strategy 2030. Looking ahead, more than 30 cruise ships are expected by the end of the season in April 2025, bringing approximately 185,000 demonstrates the rising demand for Qatar’s exceptional cruise offerings combined with strong partnerships with global cruise operators. These record-breaking numbers reflect Doha’s growing prominence as a regional turnaround hub. As we continue to invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure and enrich the visitor experience, our commitment to positioning Qatar as a premier cruise destination remains steadfast.” The cruise industry has become a cornerstone of Qatar’s national tourism strategy, experiencing remarkable growth in recent years. Doha Port’s strategic location in the heart of the city allows visitors to maximise their short stays, with iconic landmarks such as the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif positioned nearby. This experience is further elevated by the Grand Cruise Terminal. Combining classic Arabian architecture with state-of-the-art facilities, the terminal stands as a symbol of Qatar’s commitment to providing world-class experiences for cruise visitors. As Qatar continues to expand its tourism offerings, the cruise industry remains a key driver of the nation’s vision to position itself as a world-class destination.
Lincoln marks a successful 2024 with strong sales growth n the middle east
Doha-Qatar, 3 February 2025 – As Lincoln celebrates 103-year of elegance and innovation on February 4, the brand has concluded a successful 2024 with sales achieving 17% year-on-year increase. The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia emerged as Lincoln’s top-performing markets, each registering a 21% YoY growth. Commenting on this exceptional sales performance, Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East, said, “We are grateful to our distributor partners for their dedication to the Lincoln brand. Their efforts have been instrumental in achieving yet another successful year for Lincoln in the region, solidifying our status as one of the most desired automotive brands.” He added, “This year, we are thrilled to introduce the all-new Lincoln Navigator to our customers, whose addition will complete the brand’s most refreshed lineup, alongside the all-new Nautilus and the new Aviator introduced in 2024. As our flagship SUV, it will feature the first-ever Lincoln Split Gate and the unique multisensory experience known as Lincoln Rejuvenate, setting a new benchmark for full-size luxury SUVs in the region.” The Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair led the charge as the brand’s top-selling vehicles by volume last year. The mid-size Nautilus SUV (launched in 2024) offers customers the choice of two powertrains; a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, as well as a hybrid powertrain boasting a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission and 100kW electric motor for a total output of 310 horsepower. The 2025 Nautilus with the immersive 48” display – the largest in its class – is also the first Lincoln nameplate in the region to offer Lincoln Rejuvenate; a multisensory experience that combines sight, sound, touch, and scent to help occupants unwind and reduce stress, providing increased relaxation. The strong-selling compact SUV Corsair – delivering versatility, style, and a spacious interior including plush, hand-selected materials – features nimble performance from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with Auto Start-Stop technology mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 250 horsepower and 373 Nm of torque. In terms of year-on-year growth, matching the Nautilus’ impressive increase in sales of 46%, was the Aviator, a large three-row SUV combining power and elegance. Captivating both inside and out, Aviator has been meticulously crafted for connoisseurs of refinement, complemented by effortless performance from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating an impressive 400 horsepower and 563 Nm of torque. Looking ahead, Lincoln is poised for continued success with the highly anticipated launch of the all-new Navigator in the Middle East later this year. The flagship SUV will redefine luxury and capability, further enriching the Lincoln lineup.
Visit Qatar announces five-year partnership with Professional Triathletes Organisation
From 2025 to 2029 the T100 Triathlon World Championship Final to be held in Doha Visit Qatar, the Professional Triathletes Organisation, World Triathlon, and the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation have announced the hosting of the Triathlon World Championship Finals Qatar T100 from 2025 to 2029. This comes as part of a five-year partnership agreement between Visit Qatar and the Professional Triathletes Organisation. The inaugural Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final will be held from December 11th – 13th, 2025. The swim leg will take place in the Arabian Gulf, while the bike and run legs will navigate through Doha and Lusail, passing several iconic landmarks such as the Lusail Stadium. The multisport festival weekend will also offer a series of swim, bike, and run events for amateurs, including the chance for amateur athletes to participate in the new 100km triathlon distance (2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run) alongside the best professional triathletes in the world. Commenting on the partnership, Eng. Abdulaziz Al–Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Professional Triathletes Organisation to host the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final in our vibrant cities for the next five years. This event underscores Qatar’s growing reputation as a premier sports destination, showcasing our commitment to hosting world-class international sporting events. Qatar’s infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and rich sports culture offers the perfect environment to host this event. This collaboration further strengthens Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports tourism, inspiring both professional athletes and enthusiasts alike.” Antonio F. Arimany, President of World Triathlon, who have designated the series as the ‘Official World Championship Tour of long-distance triathlon’, added: “The T100 Triathlon World Championship Final represents a new chapter for our sport, combining elite competition with global accessibility and participation. As we continue to grow triathlon around the world, confirming the presence of the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final on the calendar for the next five years is another major milestone for our great sport in this dynamic region. Partnering with Visit Qatar and the Qatari Triathlon Federation to host this prestigious event in Doha ensures not only a world-class experience for professional athletes but also an incredible opportunity for the broader triathlon community to connect with our sport. Qatar’s dedication to innovation and excellence aligns seamlessly with our vision for the T100 series, and we’re excited to see triathlon thrive in this dynamic and inspiring destination. Mass participation events are once more thriving alongside the elite racing around the world and really building into a major movement in the Middle East.” Sam Renouf, CEO of the PTO, said at a press conference held in Doha: “We have always been clear about our strategy for the T100 Triathlon World Tour – to feature iconic locations and create a world-class destination for our series. This five-year partnership with Visit Qatar allows us to achieve that vision in one of the fastest-growing, family-friendly tourist destinations in the world, which welcomed more than five million visitors last year. Qatar’s residents and visitors are showing increasing demand not only to attend world-class sporting events but also to participate in them. The legacy of major events like the FIFA World Cup and Formula 1 has encouraged such demand. The season-long series will be known as the T100 Race to Qatar and will not only be a spectacular finale for our new professional series, but also provide opportunities for amateur swimmers, cyclists, and runners – from first timers to the inaugural T100 Age Group World Championships.” He added: “Qatar is a nation with a deep respect for its heritage, yet one that is firmly focused on the future. In addition to its role as a hub for global universities and cutting-edge health and research centres, the country has a rapidly growing sports ecosystem, including training, sports medicine, and wellness facilities. This aligns perfectly with the goals we have for the T100 series.” Abdulaziz Al Tamimi, Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation President said, “As President of the Qatar Triathlon Federation, I am thrilled to announce that hosting the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final over the next five years marks a significant milestone in strengthening Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports. This prestigious event aligns with our vision to elevate triathlon in Qatar and support our athletes in achieving international excellence.” “As a passionate triathlete, it has always been a dream to witness a world-class event like this in our homeland. Hosting this championship simplifies logistical challenges for athletes and reflects Qatar’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture. Developing our national team is a key priority, as we prepare our athletes to compete globally and proudly represent Qatar. The presence of elite triathletes offers opportunities for inspiration and growth, encouraging the community to embrace the sport.” he added. He concluded by saying, “This championship will inspire younger generations to adopt active lifestyles, aligning with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. By hosting this event, we reinforce Qatar’s legacy of organizing world-class sporting events that promote health, wellness, and resilience. We look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators from around the globe to share in this incredible experience and celebrate the sport of triathlon together.” The list of athletes for the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Tour was announced earlier this month, with a remarkable group of Olympic champions and World Championship winners from 13 countries participating. The women’s field will be led by American and Belgian Olympians Taylor Knibb and Marten Van Riel, who won the inaugural T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals in Dubai, becoming the first-ever T100 series world champions. Each athlete will have to compete in at least five of the ten T100 races during the season, with their four best scores plus their result in the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final, where points will count double, contributing to their final T100 standing. Qatar’s global positioning as a hub for international sporting excellence continues to grow, and events such as the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Championship contribute to its
Qatar Tourism Launches Video on the 2025 Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
Qatar Tourism has announced the launch of a video highlighting the main exhibitors participating in the 2025 Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, showcasing the economic impact of the exhibition and its role in developing and supporting the luxury retail sector in Qatar. The video addresses how the exhibition contributes to enhancing Qatar’s position as a leading destination for luxury shopping, highlighting the effect of increasing demand from visitors on shaping the exhibitors’ offerings. It also reviews the role of the exhibition in supporting the national economy by attracting elite global brands and increasing investment opportunities in the luxury retail sector. Additionally, the video demonstrates the positive impact of the exhibition on participating brands, through increased sales and showcasing innovations to an international audience, while highlighting success stories that combine traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation in an environment that reflects Qatari excellence. The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition is a significant economic and cultural event that supports the luxury tourism sector in Qatar. Organized annually, it gathers a selection of elite luxury brands and global designers. The 2025 edition is expected to achieve even greater success and attract a large number of both local and international visitors. For further details about the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, and for registration please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/doha-jewellery-and-watches-exhibition
Doha Film Institute Opens Submissions for 2025 Qatari Film Fund to Nurture Homegrown Film Ecosystem
Doha, Qatar; January 27, 2025: Doha Film Institute has announced that submissions for the 2025 Qatari Film Fund (QFF) will open on January 26, underlining its commitment to nurturing local voices and building a robust creative economy. Since its inception, the Qatari Film Fund has supported more than xx projects, with Above the Tamarind Tree by Buthyna Al-Mohammadi and I Lay For You To Sleep by Ali Al Hajri gaining acclaim at the 2024 Ajyal Film Festival. Two QFF projects, awarded in 2024, are currently in pre-production: Sad Boy: The Movie by Qatari artist N&LS, which is set in a surreal and melancholic world, and follows the story of a grief-stricken boy who learns to navigate pain and haunting memories by embarking on an emotional journey toward healing and self-discovery, and Maria and the Unicorn by filmmaker Kholoud Al-Ali, a touching tale about a lonely girl whose life transforms when she befriends a lost unicorn but tensions arise when the girl is faced with helping the unicorn find its way back. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute, said: ” Qatar Film Fund has been a cornerstone in the development of our national film industry, providing vital support to emerging and established filmmakers. Over the years, QFF has helped create a strong national film ecosystem, with local talents benefiting not only from funding but from comprehensive script-to-screen support. It has empowered our storytellers to bring their unique visions to life, fostering a vibrant creative community and positioning Qatar as a hub for cinematic excellence. Through this fund, we are not only advancing our local talent but also sharing our culture and stories with the world.” Supporting the skills and accomplishments of Qatari filmmakers, the Fund is committed to the development of up to four feature films, and the development, production and post-production of up to eight short films annually. Feature films developed through the fund are eligible for financial support for production, and one film will be selected for production funding in the following year. Short films are eligible for funding valued at up to QAR182,500 that includes development, production and post-production funds, mentorship, equipment and production support from the Institute. They must adhere to specific duration limits: short narrative films should not exceed 12 minutes, 2D animation should be limited to 7 minutes, and documentaries can run up to 30 minutes. Feature film treatments and screenplays at any level of progress are eligible for development funding valued at up to QAR182,500 that includes development services, mentorship, equipment and other support from the Institute. The duration for feature-length films are defined as 80 minutes or longer, and the director applying for funding must have completed at least one short film. DFI’s team of experts will work closely with successful applicants throughout the development, production and post-production stages, working with each filmmaker to develop and finalise scripts, establish budgets and schedules, secure creative and technical teams and provide mentorship opportunities with industry specialists as required. For feature films, the support includes script notes and feedback, script editors, writers’ fees, legal services, location scouting, budgeting and scheduling and casting, among others. Recipients of the Qatari Film Fund will also receive creative and technical training and mentoring through Doha Film Institute’s Learning Initiatives. Qatari directors and writers can submit their applications from January 26 until February 13, 2025, covering various genres, including narrative, documentary, and 2D animation projects. Applicants can add production feasibility in their scripts, particularly regarding location numbers and cast size. The selection process involves three comprehensive stages, beginning with initial project submission to be sent by email to qff@dohafilminstitute.com, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates, and final selection. Those who are not selected will also receive valuable feedback and development suggestions through the Institute’s Learning Initiatives, with the opportunity to reapply in future funding cycles. For detailed information visit: https://www.dohafilminstitute.com/financing/grants/qff
All-New Patrol marks a bold design evolution for Nissan SUV line up in the Middle East
Iconic SUV ushers in a new era of the brand’s design language and premium innovation tailored for the region Doha, Qatar (January 14th, 2025) – Unveiling a bold, new chapter for the brand in the Middle East, the recently launched all-new Nissan Patrol has solidified its position as a design benchmark for the region and beyond. As the first of five all-new SUVs to be introduced in the region by Fiscal Year 2026 under The Arc, Nissan’s global business plan, the Patrol exemplifies Nissan’s bold approach to design innovation, seamlessly blending its legendary legacy of over 70-years with modern sophistication. More than an evolution, the all-new Patrol introduces a new era of SUV design for Nissan, with a distinctive silhouette that balances rugged capability with premium refinement. Bringing together timeless heritage and cutting-edge aesthetics, the all-new Patrol embodies the perfect balance of Nissan’s global design philosophy of “Bold Presence” and “Solid Dignity”. Inspired by extensive research across key global regions, including the Middle East, Nissan’s designers created the all-new Patrol to express a dynamic duality. With bold sculpted lines and balanced proportions, the Patrol exudes a powerful stance while refined details elevate its premium appeal. Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan, INFINITI, commented: “The all-new Nissan Patrol is a bold statement of Nissan’s refreshed design language and an embodiment of our vision for SUVs in the Middle East. For generations, the Patrol has been an integral part of the region; and with this latest model, we’ve drawn inspiration from its iconic design to create a vehicle that upholds its legendary status. A pioneer of Nissan design language, the all-new Patrol reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of our customers while setting a new standard for premium SUV.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “The all-new Nissan Patrol has been exceptionally well-received in Qatar. Its bold, striking design and premium features truly resonate with our customers. With enhancements like the distinctive V-motion grille, modern lighting elements, and a refined interior, the all-new Patrol sets a new standard for SUVs in the region. It embodies both power and luxury, perfectly aligning with Qatar’s growing demand for innovative and sophisticated vehicles. We are proud to offer this new chapter of the Patrol, a vehicle that combines Nissan’s legendary heritage with modern design to meet the expectations of today’s discerning drivers.” Upfront, the Patrol proudly displays its “Bold Presence” design philosophy, now enhanced by a wider, more pronounced V-motion grille that pays homage to the second-generation Patrol with its integrated horizontal bar. This commanding feature is paired with sharply sculpted lines and modern lighting elements, including the distinctive new “double-C” lamp design, which together forge a futuristic yet unmistakably Patrol exterior. The full-width rear light bar further accentuates this evolution, maintaining the vehicle’s sense of power and prestige. The side profile of the Patrol is marked by a gently sloping shoulder line that stretches from front to rear, projecting a blend of prestige and agility. This design is accentuated by a rising window line between the C- and D-Pillars, with blacked-out pillars that create a floating roof effect. The iconic Patrol emblem adorns the D-Pillar, enhancing the vehicle’s identity. Stylish 22-inch alloy wheels underline the SUV’s bold stance, while sleek LED accents modernize the overall design, achieving the perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality. Inside, the Patrol’s premium cabin offers a glimpse into Nissan’s commitment to “Solid Dignity”. Emphasizing craftsmanship and user-centric innovation, twin displays dominate the console, while soft materials and carefully integrated components maintain an elegant, clean design. In keeping with the Japanese concept of Ma (Mastery of Space), each seating row is crafted with equal attention to detail. Enhanced roominess and the premium quilted leather with precise stitching inspired by traditional Kumiko patterns, offer passengers a premium experience. Meanwhile, unique touches including the “Since 1951” badge on the center console honor the Patrol’s enduring legacy. Practicality meets elegance in every detail, from Damping Acoustic glass that ensures a tranquil cabin, to a wireless phone charging mat textured to resemble sand dunes, echoing the Patrol’s natural setting. With increased cargo capacity and thoughtfully engineered seating, including first and second-row seats equipped with NASA-inspired spinal support technology, the all-new Patrol is designed to elevate every journey, whether within city limits or beyond. The all-new Nissan Patrol, with its unmatched combination of powerful design and premium comfort, is an SUV built to inspire and empower drivers across the region. It offers an array of seven striking exterior colours, each developed to enhance its dynamic appearance. The addition of four vibrant two-tone options to the exterior color palette offers increased personalization, enabling drivers to express their unique style while evoking a sense of authority and elegance. The all-new Nissan Patrol is currently available at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., showrooms – the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar – conveniently located across Qatar. For more information, visit the showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.
Eight Films Supported by Doha Film Institute Selected for 75th Berlin International Film Festival
Doha, Qatar; January 22, 2025: Doha Film Institute continues to makes impact globally with eight films supported through its Grants programme selected to the 75th edition of the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) to be held from February 13 to 23. The films have been chosen to the Competition section as well as Critics’ Week, Forum Expanded and Generation Kplus, as well as in Panorama. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute, said: “The selection of these films at the Berlin Film Festival is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity of young filmmakers from across the world, that stand out for their diversity of themes and their innovative approach to storytelling. It reflects our commitment to supporting filmmakers who are pushing boundaries and telling compelling stories that resonate globally. At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the power of cinema to bridge cultures and inspire change, and this achievement reaffirms our mission to elevate voices that deserve to be heard.” The DFI-supported films at Berlinale 2025 include Yunan (Palestine, Germany, Canada, Italy, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Ameer Fakher Eldin screens in the Competition section, the centrepiece of the festival that presents about 20 selections annually. The film is about Munir, a renowned Arab author exiled in Germany, who is burdened by psychological torment and plagued by hauntingly vivid dreams. Desperate and despondent, he embarks on a journey to a remote island, where he encounters Valeska, a wise elderly woman, and her steadfast son, Karl. Their presence unexpectedly radiates hope and redemption. Ancestral Visions of the Future (Lesotho, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese screens in the Berlinale Special segment, is a poetic allegory of the filmmaker’s childhood, an ode to cinema and an inner nod to his mother. Through fragmented narratives and mythic imagery, Mosese crafts a haunting reflection on dislocation and belonging. Screening in the Perspectives programme is Mohamed Rashad’s The Settlement (Egypt, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) follows Hossam who gives up his thuggish lifestyle to be able to provide for his sick mother and brother Maro after the death of his father. Hossam goes to work at the same factory as his father and begins to doubt whether his death was accidental. Featuring in the Forum Expanded is My Armenian Phantoms (Armenia, France, Qatar) by Tamara Stepanyan, is a tribute to the director’s father, Vigen Stepanyan, who was a beloved theatre and film actor in Armenia. Screening in Generation Kplus, a competition programme that screens state-of-the-art international cinema, is The Botanist (China, Qatar) by Jing Yi, about a lonely Kazakh boy named Arsin, in the valley villages of the northern border of Xinjiang, who is obsessed with plants. Through his fascination with the plant world, he recounts memories of his nomadic family in contemporary times. The two films in the Panorama section include: Yalla Parkour! (Palestine, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Areeb Zuaiter is about Ahmed, who aspires to become an international Parkour champion despite the blockade that troubles Gaza and Khartoum (Sudan, UK, Germany, Qatar) by Anas Saeed, Rawia Alhag, Ibrahim Snoopy, Timeea Mohamed Ahmed and Phil Cox, in which four Sudanese filmmakers mix observational documentary and innovative graphics, archives and animation to capture the lives of four real characters, all living and surviving in the war-torn metropolis of Khartoum. Selected to the Critics’ Week is East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) by Hala Elkoussi is a satire on the inner workings of an ailing autocracy and its inherent vulnerability to youth’s unchained vision of a better world.
Qatar Tourism prepares to host the 21st edition of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qatar Tourism is set to host the return of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), taking place from January 30th to February 5th 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). Now in its 21st year, DJWE has firmly established itself as Qatar’s premier event for luxury jewellery and watches, providing a platform that showcases exceptional craftsmanship and artistry from global and local designers. The week-long exhibition will feature exquisite collections, statement pieces, and innovative designs from Al Fardan Jewellery, Al Majed Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Amiri Gems, Fifty-One East, Al Muftah Jewellery, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Arts and Gems. In addition, the event will host a diverse range of international brands and emerging Qatari designers, continuing its tradition of blending heritage with innovation. The exhibition will also see the return of three highly anticipated pavilions: the Qatari, Turkish, and Indian pavilions, each showcasing unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage of each country. Commenting on this year’s exhibition, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition is one of Qatar Tourism’s flagship events, exemplifying our commitment to hosting world-class MICE events and reinforcing our global position as a leading hub for luxury experiences. In addition to showcasing the latest trends from international jewellery and watch brands, DJWE offers a platform for Qatari designers, showcasing their exceptional talent and craftsmanship.” He added, “As we continue to work towards the goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030, events such as DJWE reflect our dedication to economic diversification, supporting local talent, and offering unique experiences to visitors from around the world. The 21st edition will bring together more than 500 brands from 30 countries, creating a unique opportunity for cultural and business exchange.” DJWE has long been established as a premier B2B and B2C jewellery and watches exhibition in the region. Owned by Qatar Tourism and sponsored by Visit Qatar, this year’s edition will bring together industry leaders, renowned brands, and distinguished clients from across the region, offering visitors the unique opportunity to explore an extraordinary array of collections, engage directly with industry experts, and participate in exclusive networking sessions. As a vital contributor to the nation’s event calendar and a driver of cultural exchange and economic growth, DJWE continues to solidify its reputation each year as a platform for business growth and creative collaboration. For more information on DJWE 2025, please visit www.djwe.com To explore the latest events on Qatar’s calendar, visit www.visitqatar.com.
Sidra Medicine Celebrates Seven Years of Advancing Medical Education in Qatar
Over 400 trainees graduate from pediatric residency and fellowship programs 20 January 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has achieved remarkable milestones in medical education over the past seven years since its opening in 2018. From offering pioneering residency and fellowship programs that empower medical trainees to hosting globally recognized conferences, Sidra Medicine has transformed Qatar’s healthcare landscape and positioned itself as a reputable institution for medical expertise. Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Acting Chief Medical Officer and Chair of Medical Education at Sidra Medicine said: “When Sidra Medicine’s Medical Education pillar was established, our mission was to be ranked among the top academic medical centers in the world. I am pleased to see how far we have come on this journey and the big strides we have taken to develop the next generation of healthcare and research professionals. Our world-class events have positioned Qatar as a premier hub in the region for advancing medicine and research, attracting experts and delegates from around the world. As a proud Qatari institution, we are dedicated to empowering local and regional talent while maintaining a global outlook.” The Medical Education Department at Sidra Medicine vision is to set the highest standards of medical education and continuous professional development opportunities for healthcare professionals and offer medical trainees an exceptional educational experience to create safe and competent future doctors specialized in children’s and women’s health. “Each year Sidra Medicine offers thousands of education sessions with well over 10,000 credit hours. Our wide variety of offerings include workshops, medical simulations, seminars, symposia, grand rounds, conferences, journal clubs, and blended online learning modules. By transferring knowledge and advancing healthcare education, we are not only shaping the future of medicine but also fulfilling our mission to serve the unique needs of the Arab population,” continued Prof. Janahi. Sidra Medicine supports medical students’ clerkships and placements in pediatric and women’s healthcare, serving as a specialist teaching hospital for students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar and Qatar University Medical College as well as research students from Hamad Bin Khalifa University. Since 2018, over 1,000 medical students completed their clerkship programs at Sidra Medicine, additionally, over 400 residents and fellows have graduated from Sidra Medicine’s pediatric residency and fellowship programs, which are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education – International (ACGMEI). The hospital’s medical education achievements also include institutional accreditation from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, enabling it to accredit residency training programs across multiple specialties. These efforts have elevated Sidra Medicine’s standing as a premier academic and healthcare institution. Its impact is further evidenced by its partnerships with leading institutions such as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Sidra Medicine also offers innovative programs like the Introduction to Genomics (InGen) workshops, which in 2024 provided over 400 high school students with hands-on research experience. Sidra Medicine has established itself as a hub for international medical and research conferences and workshops, bringing globally renowned events to Qatar. In the past ten years, Sidra Medicine has hosted many events and conferences that have collectively drawn over 20,000 healthcare professionals and researchers. Notably, these gatherings have welcomed over 1,000 international participants from more than 23 countries, highlighting Sidra Medicine’s role in fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange All its conferences and workshops offer Continuous Medical Education (CME) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points which are accredited by the Department of Healthcare Professionals. In 2024, Sidra Medicine hosted the 31st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Middle East Fertility Society (MEFS), the largest organization in the region dedicated to advancing fertility care. In 2019, it proudly hosted the 6th World Congress of the World Federation of Associations of Pediatric Surgeons (WOFAPS), attracting over 800 surgeons from more than 80 countries. This landmark event, held for the first time in the Middle East, underscored Qatar’s emergence as a premier destination for advancing pediatric surgical care. Its annual conferences, such as the Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics Summit (PMFG) and the Pediatric Neuroscience Conference (PNC) have become signature events, attracting participants from across the Middle East and beyond. Sidra Medicine’s upcoming Gulf Pediatric Critical Care Conference (GPCCC) from 23 to 26 January is a testament to its ongoing dedication to providing access to cutting-edge education and medical education, as it is the first of its kind to be held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Online slots are still available. Register virtually here. For additional information about Medical Education at Sidra Medicine, please visit: https://www.sidra.org/education/medical-education
Msheireb Properties and UBS celebrate contract signing for new office in Msheireb Downtown Doha
Doha, Qatar – 21 January 2025: Msheireb Properties and UBS have jointly celebrated the contract signing for UBS’s new office in Msheireb Downtown Doha, one of the smartest, most sustainable city districts in Qatar. The future location will house UBS’s wealth management business in Qatar, featuring a dedicated client area. Tarek Eido, CEO and Country Head of UBS Qatar, said: “The new office space in Doha is a testament to our business’ strength and our ambition to further grow in the region. Having brought together our combined teams in 2024, we are now setting the tone to move forward as one team, to provide our clients with the full range of our One Bank offering.” Msheireb Properties CEO Eng. Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari said: “We are delighted to host UBS in Msheireb Downtown Doha, further solidifying the district as a leading destination for global businesses. With its smart technology, sustainability features, and strategic location in the heart of Doha, Msheireb Downtown Doha provides an unmatched environment for companies to grow and thrive. We look forward to supporting UBS in its next phase of growth in Qatar.” UBS will be occupying a full floor in the Doha Design District 1, with the move expected to take place in the latter part of 2025. The building is located at the prominent junction of Al Khail Street and Abdulla Bin Thani street in Msheireb Downtown Doha. UBS will maintain its current office space in Burj Alfardan, Lusail City. Msheireb Downtown Doha has become a sought-after destination for business tenants, offering premier office spaces, cutting-edge infrastructure, world-class sustainability certifications, and a vibrant urban ecosystem that includes retail and cultural attractions. Designed to cultivate collaboration, the district brings together like-minded businesses and organizations in a dynamic and innovative environment.
