Qatar Tourism Visits Sultan Qaboos Port for Knowledge Exchange on Cruise Industry Operations
A Qatari delegation, led by representatives from Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Interior, including members from the Permanent Committee for the Management of Maritime Ports and Immigration, Mwani, and the General Authority of Customs, recently concluded a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat, held from 27 to 28 November. Facilitated through the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman, the delegation engaged in high-level meetings with senior Omani officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Transportation, the Royal Oman Police, the Port Operator (Asyad), and the Coast Guard from the Port Security Department. These discussions provided a platform to explore avenues for cooperation, exchange best practices in logistics and port management, and address strategies for enhancing the cruise tourism experience. Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Chief of Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, commented on the visit: “Visiting Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat enabled us to engage with our Omani counterparts and thoroughly exchange knowledge across key operational areas, including immigration and customs procedures, terminal logistics, and passenger services. By sharing expertise and aligning on best practices, we are furthering our commitment to enhancing the cruise experience in Qatar and fostering meaningful collaboration within the region to drive sustainable growth in the cruise tourism sector.” During discussions, the delegation covered key operational areas during their meetings, including immigration and customs procedures, terminal operations and logistics, and the roles and responsibilities of tour operators and ship agents. Discussions also covered methods to strengthen collaborations, reinforce bilateral ties and enhance the cruise sector in both countries. Qatar’s cruise sector has become a crucial component of Qatar Tourism’s strategy, consistently achieving robust growth rates in recent years. During the 2024-2025 season alone, Doha Port is scheduled to welcome more than 90 cruise ships. Qatar Tourism plans to continue to strengthen its collaborations with international cruise lines and ports, vital for driving further growth in Qatar’s the tourism sector and contributing to Qatar’s economic diversification efforts.
SAVE THE DATE: Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition Returns from 30 January – 5 February 2025
The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) will take place from 30 January to 5 February 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. Marking its 21st edition, the event will continue to feature international brands alongside emerging Qatari designers, offering a platform to highlight expertise and craftsmanship in the industry. As one of the largest B2B and B2C exhibitions in the region, DJWE connects global industry leaders with discerning customers, creating opportunities for business growth and exclusive networking. Visitors can expect a diverse showcase of collections and an opportunity to engage directly with industry experts. Vendors and exhibitors interested in participating are invited to register via: DJWE.COM
Reducing food wastage, addressing food insecurity
Wardha Mamukoya, founder and managing director of Wa’hab is up against a very basic human need: food and how it is distributed. Her solution is to redistribute excess food to those in need, while promoting a circular economy based on the three R’s – reduction, re-using and recycling which promotes the values espoused in Qatar National Vision 2030, writes Aparajita Mukherjee. BL: Talk us through the philosophy behind Wa’hab. Mamukoya: Wa’hab’s philosophy is centered on reducing food waste and addressing food insecurity by creating a system to redistribute surplus food to those in need. Simultaneously, we promote the principles of a circular economy by focusing on the reduction, reuse, and recycling of food waste, ensuring that resources are maximised and waste is minimised at every step. In essence, we aim to promote a circular economy where food waste is not discarded but repurposed. Surplus food is collected from restaurants, events, and businesses and redistributed to communities facing food insecurity. However, we do not stop there. Non-edible food waste is recycled into compost, which can be used in local gardens and farms, creating a sustainable resource cycle. This approach aims to reduce waste in landfills while simultaneously contributing to agricultural sustainability. In addition, the environmental benefits of food waste recycling extend far beyond composting. By diverting food waste from landfills, we prevent harmful greenhouse gases like methane from being released into the atmosphere. This is a significant step toward achieving Qatar National Vision 2030’s sustainability goals. Furthermore, by involving the local community and businesses in our work, Wa’hab fosters a culture of environmental responsibility. Our initiatives aim to inspire a broader movement toward sustainability, helping to change how people view food waste – from a nuisance to a resource. BL: What drove you to start Wa’hab? Mamukoya: There is a Hadith of our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who is reported to have said: “He is not a believer who eats to his fill while his neighbour is hungry.” Pondering over this, I questioned how I could qualify to be a believer if I could not guarantee if my neighbors have eaten or not. And here again, if one were to go hungry, it was not because of a shortage of food. Judging by the large amounts of good-quality food being thrown away at restaurants and events, there was enough food to feed everyone. The problem clearly wasn’t food shortage but the lack of an efficient system to connect surplus with those in need. The environmental impact of food waste, a fact that many people fail to grasp, was another drive that motivated me to take action. Food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, which is released as food decomposes in landfills. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), landfilled food waste accounts for a significant portion of the methane produced worldwide. This environmental impact is often overlooked in conversations about food scarcity. Wa’hab was born from my desire to create a platform that not only redistributes food to reduce hunger but also contributes to sustainability by tackling the environmental challenges associated with waste. (Read the full interview on https://businessleadersme.com/category/magazines/#)
MENA Fintech Festival 2024 Concludes in Doha, Paving the Way for Fintech Innovation in the MENA Region
Doha, Qatar – December 8, 2024 The MENA Fintech Festival 2024 successfully concluded its third edition on December 5 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) in Doha. The three-day event, held from December 3 to 5, brought together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore the latest trends and future opportunities in the financial technology sector. Building upon the success of its previous editions, the festival evolved from a traditional forum into a dynamic B2B matchmaking platform, fostering collaboration among startups, investors, corporate entities, regulators, incubators, and accelerators. This transformation underscores the event’s commitment to advancing fintech and financial inclusion across the MENA region. The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by H.E. Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid Al-Thani, Assistant Governor for Financial Instruments and Payment Systems at Qatar Central Bank (QCB). He emphasized the pivotal role of financial technology as a fundamental pillar of modern financial services, highlighting QCB’s initiatives to establish an innovation-driven ecosystem aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. Sheikh Ahmed noted, “Technology has reshaped the way businesses are conducted around the world, empowering individuals and creating new opportunities to enhance economic growth.” QNA The festival’s agenda included keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops addressing challenges and opportunities within the fintech industry, particularly in the MENA region. Discussions centered on the transformative impact of fintech in expanding access to financial services, the importance of tailored financial solutions, supportive regulatory frameworks, and the role of public-private partnerships in fostering financial inclusion. Malik Shishtawi, President of the MENA Fintech Festival, stated, “Qatar’s FinTech ecosystem exemplifies the impact of visionary leadership and strategic investment. Driven by the progressive policies of the Qatar Central Bank and bolstered by the support of key stakeholders, we are witnessing a profound transformation in financial services—one that is shaping the present and laying a solid foundation for generations to come.” The festival also provided a platform for networking and collaboration, with participants expressing optimism about the future of fintech in the MENA region. The event’s success reflects Qatar’s commitment to positioning itself as a global fintech hub, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth through financial technology. For more information about the MENA Fintech Festival and future events, please visit menafintechfestival.com.
The All-New Mitsubishi XFORCE .. A bold, stylish, and versatile COMPACT SUV for an exciting lifestyle
Doha, Qatar, December 1, 2024: The stylish, yet bold all-new Mitsubishi XFORCE compact SUV is designed based on the concept of “best-suited buddy for an exciting lifestyle” to bring excitement, comfort, and practicality to customers’ everyday lives.The all-new Mitsubishi XFORCE (also known as the Outlander Sport in some markets), is available at Qatar Automobiles Company, the authorized general distributor of Mitsubishi Motors in Qatar, in its showroom on Salwa Road in Doha and in Alkhor. The XFORCE is developed to answer the needs of young families, active individuals, and modern adventurers seeking a vehicle that seamlessly blends style, reliability, versatility, and cutting-edge technology to better match their dynamic lifestyles.Aiming to redefine the standards in the compact SUV segment, the XFORCE features a bold, elegant design, a wide range of luxurious amenities, a spacious interior, and a powerful 1.5-liter MIVEC engine. A style that Draws AttentionThe exterior design of the all-new XFORCE oozes excitement and sophistication from every angle thanks to its forward-thinking, futuristic design. Designed based on the Silky and Solid concept, the compact SUV draws attention wherever it goes, thereby promoting a trendsetter lifestyle. The new generation dynamic shield with honeycomb accents as well as Mitsubishi Motors’ iconic T-shaped LED headlights and taillights, create a sporty look with a sense of depth. The XFORCE also comes with two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, thereby making a powerful statement on the road. Tech-Savvy Interior for Modern DriversWhile the exterior styling looks bold and sporty, drivers will be greeted by a luxurious interior with higher-quality materials and cutting-edge technologies. In a first for Mitsubishi Motors, a mélange fabric is used for the padding of the instrument panel, creating a sense of enclosure by covering everything up to the door trim. The modern cockpit also sports a 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an 8-inch Digital Driver Display to put information and entertainment at your fingertips. Other key interior highlights include dual-zone climate control with rear and driver knee air vents, wireless smartphone charging, USB Type A & C ports in the rear console, synthetic leather seats with an anti-rise temperature function, hands-free power tailgate, and Nanoe™ X air purifier, all of which ensure a comfortable and connected ride. Safety FirstOn the safety front, XFORCE is engineered with a plethora of driver-assistance systems and advanced safety features, including six airbags, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), an electric parking brake with an auto hold function, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), thereby providing peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. Performance Designed for Our Region and Built for AdventureUnder the hood, the all-new XFORCE debuts with a 1.5-liter MIVEC responsive engine that combines efficiency with power. The four-cylinder engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to ensure an ideal balance between fuel efficiency and driving power. The innovative transmission also features a “Ds” function (Downshift and Sporty) to enhance the driving force and engine braking, thereby ensuring a confident and sporty driving experience. The XFORCE has four drive modes—Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud. These four drive modes allow you to adjust power delivery, traction control, and steering effort for maximum confidence in different driving situations. With its two-tone 18-inch wheels, the XFORCE achieves a class-leading ground clearance of 222 mm, making it the ideal SUV for the Middle East’s challenging off-road terrains.
The All-New MG RX9 Premium SUV: A Perfect Blend of Modern Design, Power, and Versatility
Doha, Qatar, 1 December 2024: The all-new MG RX9 premium SUV combines elegant design, advanced technology, and powerful driving performance. It represents the next level of luxurious SUV experience, dedicated for modern lifestyle suitable for both city and outdoor use. The MG RX9 and the full line-up of MG cars are available at MG showrooms in Qatar on Salwa Road in Doha and Lusail. The MG RX9 is available in two distinct trim levels: the mid-tier COM 2.0 Turbo, and the top-tier LUX 2.0 Turbo. Designed to meet the needs of modern families, travel enthusiasts, and drivers who desire comfort and capability in a 7-seater configuration. The new MG RX9 offers a blend of modern design, power, and versatility, ensuring the new model offers remarkable value for its class. Additionally, customers will benefit from a generous 6-year/200,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, providing exceptional peace of mind. Exterior and Design The MG RX9’s robust and striking exterior design ensures it stands out on the road. At 1967mm wide, it has the widest body in its class, providing a powerful yet elegant presence on the road. The vehicle’s Starburst Wing Grille, integrated with the sleek headlight design featuring 245 laser-engraved LED light units, further enhances its striking front profile. Complementing this dynamic front face are 21-inch wheels, which not only elevate the vehicle’s look but also ensure stability and performance on various terrains. The MG RX9 comes in Six exterior colours inspired by nature, offering a choice to suit all drivers’ preferences. Interior Inside the MG RX9, drivers are greeted by a luxurious and spacious cabin, crafted for comfort and functionality. This 7-seater SUV offers generous legroom and headroom for passengers and drivers alike, boasting the largest 3-row seating space in its class. The boot space, which can expand to accommodate 1026 litres in the 5-seat configuration, provides plenty of room for luggage, making it ideal for long trips. In the front, the dashboard features premium materials, including high-quality wood grain or aluminium dashboard trim and soft-plated keys, adding an additional touch of elegance. Features such as the 12.3-inch touch screen, virtual cluster, and hidden intelligent air-conditioning controls ensure drivers are equipped with all the latest features. Available in black or two-tone beige and brown leather, the cabin maintains a sophisticated yet practical design. Seating comfort is further enhanced by the 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat (with memory function in the LUX trim) and the 4-way electrically adjustable passenger seat, providing personalised comfort for all. The RX9 comes in multiple trim options. The mid-tier trim, COM 2.0 Turbointroduces four-wheel drive capability. At the top of the range, the LUX 2.0 Turbotrim offers the ultimate luxury, with premium leather seats, an advanced 12 speakers premium Bose audio, driver’s seat memory, and additional front parking sensors, providing an unparalleled driving experience and the highest level of comfort. Performance The MG RX9 is designed for exceptional performance across all terrains. Powered by new Net Blue 2.0 Turbo super-efficient engine and paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth, responsive handling in any environment. With five adaptive driving modes — Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow, and Off-road — drivers can easily adjust settings to suit road conditions. Whether in the city, on the highway, or off-road, the MG RX9 offers a seamless driving experience, enhanced by its advanced intelligent driving system and all-road intelligent cruise assist. Technology and Safety Safety is at the forefront of the MG RX9’s design. Equipped with Bosch’s 3rd Generation Intelligent Front View Camera and 5th Generation Millimetre Wave Radar, the RX9 offers advanced driver-assistance systems for all-around protection. The SUV also features HD 360-degree surround view cameras, allowing drivers to have complete visibility, whether parking or manoeuvring in tight spaces. Besides these, MG RX9 also comes with “MG Pilot” level 2 ADAS on the LUX trim, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK), Intelligent High Beam Control (IHC), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Monitoring System (BLIS). The vehicle’s robust structure also incorporates over 81% high-strength steel, with ultra-high strength thermoformed steel in key areas of the passenger compartment for enhanced protection. The RX9 meets the latest C-NCAP crash safety standards, ensuring the highest levels of occupant safety.
Celestyal Sets Sail from Qatar for Maiden Voyage into the Arabian Gulf
Doha, Qatar 30 November, 2024: Celestyal, an award-winning cruise line that provides all-inclusive experiences has proudly confirmed its flagship, the ‘Celestyal Journey’, has arrived in Doha, Qatar, marking the beginning of the line’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season. This exciting new chapter kicks off with two specially themed F1 voyages taking in the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grand prix events. To celebrate the occasion, Celestyal, in partnership with visit Qatar, Qatar Tourism, Mwani Qatar and Qatar Airways hosted an exclusive event onboard the Celestyal Journey while docked at Doha Port on November 30. Local dignitaries, members of the media and influencers, and key partners gathered for a day of presentations, ship tours, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony, and a celebratory luncheon—all capturing the spirit of Celestyal’s famously warm hospitality. The line has previously announced that they will host a special five-day F1-themed event for global travel agents. This experience includes a three-night land stay with local excursions to the Arabian Travel Market, followed by two days aboard the Celestyal Journey while docked at Doha’s Grand Cruise Terminal. During this time, guests can attend the Qatar Grand Prix and enjoy an intimate speaking session with Formula 1 legends David Coulthard and Laura Winter in the ship’s impressive Amphitheatre. Subsequent departures will then comprise of seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Doha, up to March 2025. Each cruise features visits to the iconic destinations of Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi, an overnight stay in Dubai Marina, along with stops at hidden gems like Khasab and Sir Bani Yas Island. The Celestyal Journey will call Doha its winter home for the next three consecutive years, following a collaboration between Celestyal and Visit Qatar that aims to bring the region’s stunning offerings to the world. The remarkable ship boasts 630 suites and staterooms, seven restaurants, eight bars and lounges, two pools and jacuzzis, and an entire deck dedicated to wellness—complete with a spa, fitness, and wellness areas. After a multi-million Euro refurbishment in September 2023, the Celestyal Journey received additional upgrades en route to Doha, including enhancements to the Junior Dream Suites and the addition of Café Nation, a popular coffee bar introduced on its sister ship earlier this year. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “We’re incredibly excited to see our first ever Arabian Gulf season get underway. I want to thank our partners at Visit Qatar, Mwani Port Authority, Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways for their continued support and warm welcome to the region. We are confident that our special FI-themed cruises will ensure we have a roaring start to the season, while the Desert Days itinerary offers the very best of the local region. Whether guests are familiar with the destinations we visit or are sampling them for the first time, there will be a wealth of authentic experiences available to everyone.” The Celestyal Discovery will also join Celestyal Journey in the region at the end of 2025. She will sail three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha Port, Khalifa Bin Salman Port (Bahrain) and Dubai Marina Port, and four-night midweek ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises, sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Kasab. Chris Theophilides, CEO at Celestyal, adds: “We’re delighted to be commencing our season in the Arabian Gulf, with this momentous arrival into Doha. I want to thank our teams and partners who have made this a reality. It marks a significant milestone in Celestyal’s journey, operating a fully refreshed fleet across year-round operations and two regions. We listened to our guests, and 86% tell us they want to return after they have spent time onboard. And with our new Desert Days itinerary, as well as our additional Iconic Arabia itineraries on Celestyal Discovery from next year, we are expanding the many reasons for them to return to sea with us.” The Desert Days itinerary prices start from €359 / $409 / £319 / A$579 per person, representing a 67% saving, and the Iconic Arabia cruises start from €239 / £219 / $279 / A$389 per person, representing a 57% saving—both available at these rates as part of the cruise line’s Black Friday sale, ending December 3. For more information, visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170.
Head of The International Series, Singh says Qatar is ‘truly becoming a global hub of sport
(Doha, Qatar, 26 November 2024) International Series Qatar tees of this week at Doha Golf Club for the penultimate event of season on the Asian Tour and in a pre-tournament press conference hosted by dignitaries from the Qatar Golf Association, Rahul Singh, The Head of The International Series, highlighted the importance of the event to the global golfing ecosystem. Major champions Patrick Reed, Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel are among 18 LIV Golf League stars in the field for the event this year, the penultimate event of the season which will have a huge bearing on the all-important rankings race which offers players a pathway onto the 2025 LIV Golf roster. This will be the second International Series Qatar event that has taken place with 2023 International Series Rankings winner Andy Ogletree winning the event last year. Singh said: “I’d like to start by thanking the Qatar Golf Association, the Qatar Olympic Committee, and all of the members and staff of the QGA and the Doha Golf Club for welcoming us back for the second edition of the International Series Qatar. “It’s a very exciting week for us to be over here with so much sport happening in this great country. This week, with football, boxing, F1 and world class golf, this is truly becoming a hub of global sport, and this is a great week for us to be over here. “The importance of this week in the series cannot be forgotten, and the field that we have this year is highly reflective of the importance of the tournament. In 2023 we had a limited selection of players who represented the LIV Golf League but this year, we have 18 players made up of Major winners, Presidents Cup winners and Ryder Cup players, all of whom will be playing alongside the best of the Asian Tour for these positions.” Fahad Nasser Al Naimi, General Secretary, QGA said: “”This tournament is being held for the second time, and this edition is distinguished by its high level of competition, featuring 120 of the best professional players, including 18 players from the LIV Golf League. “We are fortunate to have these players participating in this tournament. We expect this edition to be exceptional both in terms of organization and technical quality. “Golf is always closely linked to promoting tourism, as it plays a significant role in enhancing the tourism sector in any country hosting major tournaments. It is worth noting that this tournament will be broadcast on approximately 20-25 international channels, with four hours of live coverage daily over four days. “Doha Golf Club’s course is in excellent condition, and golf fans are always eager to follow their favourite players, motivating them to attend, cheer, and interact with them up close.” International Series Qatar takes place at Doha Golf Club from 27-30 November. For tickets and further information, please visit www.internationalseries.com
film festivals as the microphone for the people in a world of silence, says Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute
Doha, Qatar; November 20, 2024: Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute (DFI) and Festival Director of 2024 Ajyal, said the organisation has built a sustainable ecosystem for Arab and independent cinema, underpinned by its commitment to supporting creative expression, particularly during challenging times. At an Ajyal 2024 media briefing, Alremaihi said, “film festivals are now more important than ever as they have become the microphone for the people in a world of silence,” adding that “DFI’s commitment to cinema extends beyond entertainment, viewing film festivals as catalysts for positive societal change.” “On opening night, everyone who spoke to me told me that they had never been to a festival where people can voice their opinion or voice issues like they can here. They said it is really refreshing and that should be the norm of film festivals. Unfortunately, it is not. “Film festivals are there to make people’s lives better, to make societies better. There’s a mission behind it. It’s not just to bring films to entertain, but to bring films that will impact us,” Alremaihi said. Building on this year’s success, as DFI prepares to host the 2025 Doha Film Festival, Alremaihi said the core mission and programmes would remain intact while expanding to embrace new opportunities. “Nothing is changing in the sense that we are replacing Ajyal. This is simply the next stage of our festival, the next stage of our industry, and the next stage of the Institute,” she said. “We have always been evolving and adapting to industry needs”. Under the leadership of H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Chairperson, DFI has expanded its scope beyond conventional approaches, added Alremaihi. “Our chairperson is incredibly invested in this. When she sees the value in a concept, she’s always pushing us to make it bigger and transform it into a continuous initiative.” Reflecting on DFI’s journey, Alremaihi described its success: “We worked really hard over the past 14 years to create a sustainable ecosystem that has proven results, we have discovered a formula that works and are continuously building on that.” The Institute’s commitment to year-round engagement is evident through various initiatives including the Ajyal Film Club and Ajyal Show podcast. “Everything we start at Ajyal has taken on a life of its own to become a year-round programme with sustained impact,” e She said that DFI’s role in nurturing local talent has shown remarkable results, particularly through the Made in Qatar programme. “It has evolved from showcasing locally-made films to include projects developed in Qatar but produced elsewhere, demonstrating our flexible approach to supporting creative talent. Reflecting on Ode to Our Land, directed by two young Qatari women filmmakers, Amal Al Muftah and Rawda Al-Thani, she said: “The film took four years of work, but we were able to convey its message with the support of our talented Qatari female directors. We believed in their vision and gave them the confidence they needed because they possess exceptional talent and can achieve anything, as evident in the film. Currently, we are working on other projects under Made in Qatar, featuring diverse local and global stories and ideas. Speaking about regional partnerships, Alremaihi said DFI is honoured to have brought Ajyal Film Club to Morocco for the first time to the city of Tangier. “I was impressed by the Moroccan jurors—their critiques, eloquence, and way of thinking were remarkable. We look forward to building future partnerships with Morocco.” She commented that DFI’s longstanding support to Palestinian cinema remains unwavering. “Whatever we do will never be enough to bring their voices to the world. . We have been supporting cinema from the region for the last 14 years and Palestine has always been an integral part of that contribution. It is important for us to amplify the stories that matter, and show them to the world. Highlighting another significant achievement, Alremaihi noted that DFI’s global impact has been independently validated by a Sorbonne University study that identified Qatar as the world leader in supporting women filmmakers with a presence at international festivals. “The significant progress of the role of Arab women in leadership showcases our incredible talent and creativity. The perception that women in film in the West have greater opportunities is inaccurate, only 9% of female directors compared to 27% in the Arab world. “DFI’s impact is now global but we will continue to aim to generate more creative power not only for women, but for all underrepresented voices,” Alremaihi concluded.
FIA President meets with Qatar Prime Minister to discuss country’s motor sport and mobility activity
Ahead of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix taking place later this month, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with Qatar’s Prime Minister His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and the Minister of Sports and Youth, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani. Top of the agenda was Qatar’s key role in global motor sport alongside the country’s innovation and education in mobility. Advocacy and impact of sustainability in the region were discussed at length – a key consideration for all parties who confirmed their mutual commitment to advancing sustainable practices and raising awareness. The ongoing collaboration between Qatar, the FIA, and Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) ensures the continued growth of motor sport, and success in the mobility and transport sectors, across the region and globally. From the end of November to mid-December, the world’s eyes will be drawn to Qatar and the Lusail International Circuit in the year of its 20th anniversary. From hosting the penultimate race of the 2024 F1 season, to witnessing top karting talents from across the Middle East and North Africa compete in six thrilling categories at the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup. The FIA is committed to increasing accessibility and diversity across motor sport, ensuring equal opportunities for equal talent, with the global grassroots programme crucial to ensuring the continued success of motor sport in the Middle East. Alongside sporting matters, the parties discussed the FIA’s support in mobility and transport in the region including the concerted efforts that have been made in the country to increase road traffic safety and boost economic growth by adopting comprehensive road safety strategies. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, said: “My thanks to the Prime Minister of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani for his generous welcome. We had a very productive meeting to discuss the future of global motor sport and mobility. “It was also good to discuss a number of grassroots development initiatives across motor sport and mobility with the Minister of Youth and Sports, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani. “I am proud of the close relationship that has been built by the FIA and our regional Member Club Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, and the partnership we have fostered to ensure ongoing innovation and collaboration in the region. My thanks to QMMF President Mr. Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Latif Al Mannai. “I look forward to the upcoming events taking place in Qatar and spending more time in this vibrant country.” “Welcoming FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem to Lusail International Circuit today reflects the strength of Qatar’s motor sport journey in 2024,” said Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of QMMF and Lusail International Circuit. “Hosting other prestigious events such as the International BAJA, the International Rally, the World Endurance Championship, and the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup underscores our commitment to advancing excellence in motorsport. Our focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity aligns with Qatar’s vision to inspire progress and nurture talent, ensuring the region’s enduring impact on the global motorsport landscape.”
