Msheireb Properties’ CEO Wins “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025
Reading Time: 2 minutesMsheireb Properties — Qatar’s trailblazing sustainable real estate developer — has once again raised the benchmark for the global built-environment sector. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Ali Al Kuwari has been honoured as “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at the Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025, held at Address Sky View in Downtown Dubai. The Big 5 Global Impact Awards, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, celebrate global excellence in green construction, digital transformation, smart cities, and innovation. The accolade is judged by an independent international panel that recognises projects and leaders shaping the future of the built environment. A Visionary at the Helm of Qatar’s Greenest Urban Development The award recognises Eng. Al Kuwari’s pivotal leadership in driving Msheireb Properties’ sustainability vision—including the creation of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first fully sustainable downtown regeneration project, and one of the most ambitious smart city models globally. Speaking on the award, Eng. Al Kuwari said: “Sustainability is not a goal—it is the foundation of everything we design, build and preserve. From mobility and urban planning to heritage conservation and community wellbeing, our mission is to create spaces that are resilient, inclusive, intelligent and future-ready. This recognition reflects Msheireb Properties’ belief that sustainability is a holistic commitment embedded into every brick, every story and every experience we curate.” A Continued Legacy of Global Recognition This milestone builds on Msheireb Properties’ historic achievements at the 2024 Big 5 Global Impact Awards, where: Together, these accomplishments reaffirm Msheireb Properties’ role as a global leader in sustainable urban development, cultural preservation, and smart-city innovation. Driving Qatar’s Decarbonisation and Smart City Transformation Under Eng. Al Kuwari’s leadership, 2025 saw the launch of Qatar’s first large-scale portfolio decarbonisation strategy, covering over 100 buildings across Msheireb Downtown Doha. This transformative initiative accelerates Qatar’s path toward: Msheireb Downtown Doha has become a global showcase for: Its pioneering model is now referenced across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as a blueprint for future-ready cities. A Moment of Pride for Qatar The award reinforces Qatar’s rise as a regional sustainability leader, fully aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, and positions Msheireb Properties as a key catalyst advancing: • • Innovation-led economic growth
Msheireb Downtown Doha Sees 30% Surge in Visitors and Growing Cultural Engagement During Ramadan
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – 24 March 2025: Msheireb Downtown Doha experienced an unprecedented surge in visitors and cultural engagement during Ramadan, with footfall and participation figures surpassing the previous year. Between 1 and 19 March, it welcomed more than one million visitors — a 30% increase compared to 2024. Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Msheireb Properties, said: “Ramadan at Msheireb Downtown Doha continues to be a time of deep spiritual reflection, cultural enrichment, and community gathering. The growth in visitor numbers and engagement this year reflects how the downtown brings together tradition and modernity, offering meaningful experiences to all who visit.” “We are proud to see families and visitors from all over Qatar and the region come together to celebrate and share in the rich cultural heritage of our downtown during this special time,” he added. The Garangao celebrations on 14 and 15 March attracted thousands of families, with 1,800 children and parents enjoying a themed tram ride featuring traditional drummers and Garangao songs. Children received sweets and visited Msheireb Downtown Doha residents in traditional attire to share the festive spirit. Hosh Msheireb’s Garangao event on 15 March saw more than 2,000 visitors, doubling last year’s attendance. A highlight was the Kids’ Fashion Show, where children showcased traditional attire, and the winner received a family staycation at a prestigious Msheireb hotel. Furthermore, Hosh Msheireb remained a prominent community space, welcoming a total of 12,000 visitors. The venue hosted a variety of cultural and educational activities, including 1,000 visits to the Company House. The Kids’ Zone saw over 8,000 children engaged in its activities, while the “Back to Msheireb” exhibition attracted over 1,500 visitors, further contributing to the area’s significance as a hub for cultural exchange and learning. Msheireb Downtown Doha also reinforced its status as a spiritual hub, hosting esteemed scholars and reciters, including Sheikh Raad Al Kurdi, Sheikh Mohammed Al Awadhi, Sheikh Abdulaziz Sahim, and Mufti Ismail Menk, whose special sermon attracted over 3,000 attendees at the Eid Musala. Attendance at Isha and Tarawih prayers reached 70000 worshippers, marking a 75% increase from 2024. Meanwhile, the downtown’s appeal extended beyond cultural and spiritual activities, with its luxury offerings attracting significant interest. At Mandarin Oriental, Doha, Ramadan dining exceeded expectations, with Suhoor and Iftar drawing an exceptional turnout. Approximately 9,000 guests were served, marking a 54.5% increase and highlighting the growing demand for luxury dining in Msheireb Downtown Doha.
Baraha Ramadan Nights at Mandarin Oriental, Doha
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, 12 February 2025 – This Ramadan, Mandarin Oriental, Doha invites guests to embrace the spirit of the Holy Month with Baraha Ramadan Nights, a thoughtfully curated Iftar and Suhour experience set in the open-air surroundings of Baraha Square. Designed for shared moments with family and friends, the experience features a diverse selection of traditional and signature dishes, prepared at 14 live cooking stations, in a setting that reflects the warmth and generosity of the season. BARAHA RAMADAN NIGHTS With a menu that honours authentic flavours, guests can break their fast with a selection of traditional Ramadan dishes alongside signature creations from Mandarin Oriental, Doha’s renowned restaurants. The atmosphere at Baraha Square provides an elegant yet welcoming space, offering a moment to reflect, connect, and enjoy a meal together. Iftar is served from sunset to 8pm, priced at QAR 295 per person, inclusive of Ramadan beverages, and QAR 148 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Suhour is available from 9pm to 1am at QAR 245 per person, with a special rate of QAR 123 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Children aged five and under dine with our compliments. RAMADAN CAKE BY THE MANDARIN CAKE SHOP Marking the occasion, The Mandarin Cake Shop presents a special edition from The Heritage Cake Collection, an indulgent creation crafted with layers of brownie sponge, feuilletine crunch, hazelnut dacquoise, Arabic coffee crème brûlée, gianduja crémeux, and dark chocolate mousse. This refined dessert is available for pre-order through our online shop for QAR 350, adding a memorable touch to Ramadan gatherings. Ramadan Retreat For a more personal Ramadan experience, the Ramadan Retreat offers a serene stay with carefully curated touches. Guests can enjoy Iftar at Baraha Square, Suhour in the comfort of their room, and a late checkout, ensuring an experience that is both relaxing and convenient. The stay also includes a welcome amenity and complimentary laundry service, providing added comfort during the Holy Month. Stillness and Mindfulness this Ramadan The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha offers a selection of treatments designed for relaxation and renewal. The Deluxe HydraFacial & Massage offers a revitalizing experience, beginning with lymphatic drainage, followed by deep cleansing, exfoliation, and extraction to leave the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. This treatment is available for QAR 1,000. The Full Face Fitness Facial & Massage, inspired by the Japanese Kobido technique, combines deep facial massage with nourishing date seed oil to support collagen production and skin elasticity, enhancing natural radiance. Available for QAR 850. Both treatments include a complimentary 30-minute targeted massage, focusing on the back, neck, shoulders, and hands, for a deeply relaxing experience. For reservations, visit https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/doha/msheireb/ramadan or call +974 4008 8888.
Baraha Musical Concert Returns at Msheireb Downtown Doha
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – 9 February 2025: The Baraha Musical Concert is back at Barahat Msheireb, taking place over three days on 14, 15, and 18 February – with a unique blend of Gulf folk music and animated soundtracks in an open-air setting at Msheireb Downtown Doha. In collaboration with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO), this year’s Baraha concerts are an opportunity to enjoy live performances while savouring a three-course meal in one of Doha’s most iconic destinations. Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Msheireb Properties, said: “The Baraha Musical Concert is all about bringing people together through music, combining contemporary and traditional sounds in the beautiful setting of Barahat Msheireb. With live performances and great food, it’s an experience that feels grand and intimate. We love seeing residents and visitors come together to enjoy these special moments, and it’s exciting to keep finding new ways to celebrate our heritage while embracing modern creativity.” Gulf Folk Music Meets Western Orchestral Sounds The first two concerts, on 14 and 15 February, will spotlight Gulf folk music, preserving traditional melodies while incorporating Western orchestral elements. The performance will pay tribute to Qatar’s maritime heritage, with a focus on the ‘Fijiri’ music style, a traditional genre linked to pearl divers and the sea. Dr. Nasser Sahim, Deputy Executive Director of QPO, discussed the significance of this initiative. “Since the blending of Gulf folk music with Western classical instruments in 2022, there has been increasing interest in these efforts to preserve local music. The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra serves as a cultural ambassador for Qatar, showcasing local music to a wider audience. Through our orchestral direction, we highlight the themes and cultural stories of Qatar, bridging cultural understanding through music,” Dr. Sahim explained. Among the compositions composed by Dr. Sahim that will be featured include Spirit of Maqam, Al Freasa Ashory, Al Barehaa, Khamary – Samry Ma Agwa, Adsani, Lewaa Dance, Ya Hmood, An Yehremoona, Al Maena Yeqool, Helwa Magroora, and Ana Ya Khely. Anime Soundtracks Take the Stage On 18 February, the Baraha Musical Concert will present a unique experience with “Animated Volume 1: Msheireb Edition,” a performance that has captivated audiences since its debut in 2019. Growing in popularity among Doha audiences, the concert combines the magic of orchestral music with beloved anime soundtracks and attracts both classical music lovers and anime fans alike. “The upcoming concert promises a captivating celebration of anime music, offering fans the chance to hear iconic tracks from beloved shows, performed by a world-class orchestra. Highlighting the vital role music plays in anime, the concert will bring characters and stories to life with powerful performances of pieces from Death Note, Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, Detective Conan, The Lion King, and Arabic songs like Grendizer and Iron Man. This unique event blends orchestral music with anime culture, inviting the audience to sing along with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and their soloists.” said Merve Kenet Bulun, Artistic Lead and part of QPO. Tickets for the Baraha Musical Concert are available in a variety of packages and include a three-course meal from a 5-star hotel in Msheireb Downtown Doha. Silver individual seating is priced at QAR 500 per seat, while Platinum and Gold ticket tables for multiple guests are available. Tickets can be purchased via the Msheireb Downtown Doha website.
‘Msheireb Vibes’ Continue in Msheireb Downtown Doha and takes Centre Stage with Whimsical Events, Tech Innovations
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – 26 January 2025: Msheireb Vibes continue at Msheireb Downtown Doha with a series of activities and events throughout January and February, leading up to the National Sport Day. From candy-themed festivities to cutting-edge tech exhibitions and captivating musical performances, there’s something for everyone in this lively celebration. Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Msheireb Properties, emphasised the inclusive spirit of the events, saying: “We aim to create unforgettable experiences for families and visitors while showcasing the cultural and innovative heartbeat of Msheireb Downtown Doha.” “We want to make Msheireb Downtown Doha a destination where people of all ages can come together, explore new ideas, and create joyful memories,” he added. Candy Land (Until February 1) Candy Land, sponsored by Visit Qatar and Al Rayan Bank, running until February 1 at Sahat Al Nakheel, is a whimsical wonderland that transports visitors of all ages to a land of sugary delight. With towering ice cream sculptures, candy-inspired installations, the event invites attendees to reconnect with their inner child. Visitors can enjoy daily shows from 4 PM to 10 PM, including the Chocolate Factory Show, Candy Man Jugglers, Candy Bubble Show, Colourful Flying Giant Show, Cotton Candy Show, and Kids Magic Show. Interactive zones such as the Lolli Jump zone offer active fun for kids, while a cozy seating area with beanbags provides a relaxing space for adults. Adding to the fun is a donut-shaped slide, where guests land in a playful donut-filled area. To round off the experience, 12 food and beverage booths, alongside additional carnival carts, will delight the senses. Downtown Tech (January 30-31) Downtown Tech, in partnership with Zeekr and featuring participation from Lekhwiya, Tesla Owners Club, and Snoonu, will be held at Barahat Msheireb on January 30 and 31. The event will showcase groundbreaking technological advancements across four zones: AI, Robotics, IoT, and Autonomous Vehicles. Attendees will also see exciting Laser light shows. Visitors can explore hands-on experiences with AI-driven solutions, robotics, smart home technology, and autonomous transportation. A brain-shaped neon-lit structure visually anchors the event, symbolising the central processing unit of a tech ecosystem, radiating energy to power the zones. Baraha Orchestra (February 14, 15, and 18) For music and anime lovers, the Baraha Musical Concerts are back with enthralling performances by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Scheduled for February 14, 15, and 18, the shows will feature a mix of Gulf music and iconic anime soundtracks. Tickets will soon be available on Msheireb Downtown Doha’s website. Qatar National Sport Day in the Heart of Doha As part of the Qatar National Sport Day celebrations, Msheireb Downtown Doha will feature a series of activations encouraging healthy and active lifestyles. Visitors can look forward to engaging fitness sessions, interactive sports zones, and activities designed to inspire wellness and community participation. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements detailing the full schedule of activities.
Msheireb Properties and UBS celebrate contract signing for new office in Msheireb Downtown Doha
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, 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.
Msheireb Downtown Doha Welcomes More Than 1500 Attendees to Qatar’s Largest Outdoor Cybersecurity Event
Reading Time: 2 minutesMsheireb Properties’ first-ever outdoor cybersecurity conference, held in partnership with White Hat Desert (WHD), brought more than 1500 participants from across multiple sectors to Barahat Msheireb yesterday. The event featured 15 speakers, five specialized Cybersecurity Villages, and CTF “Capture the flag” competition to Barahat Msheireb, and representation from energy, banking, construction, healthcare, and broadcasting companies, setting a new benchmark for cybersecurity events in Qatar. “As a smart tech leader in Qatar, hosting this groundbreaking cybersecurity is part of our commitment to introducing technological innovation and digital safety among the community,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Korbi, Senior ICT Manager at Msheireb Properties, during his welcome remarks. “Through our sophisticated network of over 650,000 connected IoT devices and state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, we understand firsthand the critical importance of cybersecurity in modern urban environments. This event demonstrates our dedication to sharing this knowledge with both industry professionals and general public in Qatar.” The morning industry session delivered comprehensive insights across four key themes: Emerging Threats, Artificial Intelligence, Risk Management, and Cyber Strategy. The event featured five distinct Cybersecurity Villages, each offering specialised experiences. The Digital Forensics & Incident Response village provided hands-on training with security experts, while the Application Security section offered a fundamental understanding of secure development practices. Participants engaged with offensive security methods in the Penetration Testing area and explored malware analysis in the Reverse Engineering section. The WHD Clinic served as a community hub for networking, while the Qatar Scientific Club showcased innovative demonstrations in robotics and electronics. The evening session transformed Barahat Msheireb into an interactive technology playground, featuring exciting competitions and demonstrations. Attendees witnessed Sumo Robot battles and high-speed drone racing competitions. Gaming enthusiasts participated in an intense Fortnite tournament while aspiring technologists engaged in circuit board-building workshops. Live hacking demonstrations captured the audience’s attention, providing real-world examples of cyber threats and defense mechanisms. “The diversity of activities and depth of expertise shared today reflects our commitment to making cybersecurity accessible to everyone,” added Eng. Al Korbi. “From the technical discussions about AI-driven attacks and ransomware in the morning sessions to the engaging family activities in the evening, we’ve succeeded in creating a comprehensive platform for cybersecurity awareness and education.” The event was supported by leading technology companies, with Malomatia, Microsoft, Google, TrendMicro and Zscaler among the key sponsors showcasing cutting-edge security solutions. The success of this inaugural outdoor cybersecurity event has already led to discussions about making it an annual fixture in Qatar’s technology calendar.
