ONE 171 Official Press Conference Highlights & the Best Quotes
February 18, 2025 – Doha, Qatar: ONE Championship™ (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, in partnership with Visit Qatar, today held the official pre-event press conference for ONE 171: Qatar. In the main event, ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio will face off against interim title holder Jarred Brooks for the third time in a highly anticipated World Title unification bout. In the co-main event, ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Haggerty will defend his belt against Chinese icon Wei Rui. ONE 171: Qatar will be broadcast live on Thursday, February 20, from Lusail Sports Arena in Lusail, Qatar. Fans can visit watch.onefc.com for more information on how to watch. ONE Championship would like to thank Official ONE 171 Presenting Partner Visit Qatar, Official Media Partner Media City Qatar, and Official Telecom Partner Ooredoo, as well as Official Energy Drink Partner Monster Energy, Official Blockchain Partner Walrus, and Official Venue Partner Lusail Sports Arena. BEST QUOTES Chatri Sityodtong – ONE Championship Chairman and CEO: “The world’s largest martial arts organization is coming back to the Middle East to throw the biggest spectacle across all these incredible disciplines, with the world’s greatest athletes, and the greatest martial arts on the planet. We are excited. And I tell you what, the main event and the co-main are absolutely barn-burning, explosive. I think both fights are going to end in a spectacular knockout. But here’s the thing, we have 14 fights. You look around just at this table right here, these are all killers and monsters, the very best of the best on the planet.” Joshua Pacio – ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion: “The difference this time is, of course, I’m going to win. Yeah, I’m going to win. The last time I won, but it’s not the way that we wanted to. And I don’t look [at the] past, I look forward, and here we are. It will be different. It will be different this time.” Jarred Brooks – ONE Interim Strawweight MMA World Champion: “I want to be remembered as the true strawweight World Champion. I am very, very grateful for ONE Championship and the things that they have done for me. I promise you, Joshua, and I, we are more than willing and prepared, and I am going to go out and I’m going to finish him on Thursday, whether you like it, or you don’t, I’m going to go out and I’m going to finish him.” Jonathan Haggerty – ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion: “I’d like to say thank you for having me. It’s an honor to be here. Thank you for ONE Championship. You know, I’m truly blessed to be doing what I love and traveling to beautiful countries like Qatar. I’m very excited to defend my belt against Wei Rui. You know, he’s a very credible opponent, the number one for a reason. We’ve left no stone unturned. turned. We’ve not overlooked him, and we’re just excited to put on a great performance for everyone.”Wei Rui – ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title Challenger: “Yes, this is the first time I come to Doha, and I came here just for this world title belt. I will definitely bring this belt to China. Thank you.”
Ooredoo Qatar Announces Asma Al Thani as Brand Ambassador, Championing Resilience and Women Empowerment
Leading Telecom to Support Pioneering Qatari Explorer on her Inspiring and Historic Expedition Doha, Qatar 17 February 2025: Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading telecommunications provider, has proudly announced Asma Al Thani as its official Brand Ambassador as part of the company’s enduring commitment to connecting the community to inspirational voices and stories. The announcement was made at a special press conference at Ooredoo’s HQ, attended by Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Bin Mohammad Al Thani, Chief Executive Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, along with key members of the media and industry leaders. Asma Al Thani, a true pioneer in global exploration, is on a historic mission to become the first Arab—male or female—to conquer both the Explorers Grand Slam and all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks. Her ambitious journey, ‘Beyond Boundaries’, is metaphorically similar to Ooredoo’s own vision of pushing limits, embracing challenges, and connecting people. Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Bin Mohammad Al Thani, CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, commented:”At Ooredoo, we proudly champion ambition, resilience, and leaders in our community. Asma Al Thani’s extraordinary journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and an inspiration to both Qatar and the wider Arab World. Just as we empower people through digital transformation and innovation, we are honoured to support Asma and women everywhere in reaching new heights. Her success will undoubtedly pave the way for future generations, and we look forward to celebrating her achievements as a role model for aspiring female leaders worldwide.” As a brand ambassador, Asma will collaborate with Ooredoo to engage audiences through a series of storytelling initiatives, digital activations, and community-driven programmes. Her journey will be closely followed through Ooredoo’s platforms, bringing followers exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into her expeditions, training, and the mindset required to achieve such remarkable feats of endurance. Asma Al Thani shared her excitement about the partnership: “Beyond Boundaries is more than just climbing mountains—it’s about proving that no dream is too big if you have the courage to pursue it. Ooredoo has always been a brand that pushes boundaries in connectivity and innovation, and I’m thrilled to partner with them on this journey. Together, we can inspire the next generation to believe in their potential, embrace challenges, and become the best they can be.” Sabah Rabiah Al-Kuwari, Senior Director of Marketing Communications at Ooredoo Qatar, added: “Asma Al Thani’s journey is a powerful reminder that no goal is too ambitious and no challenge too great when met with courage and perseverance. At Ooredoo, we are committed to supporting those who lead by example. Through this partnership, we aim to fuel the spirit of ambition, connectivity, and empowerment—values that define both Asma’s expedition and Ooredoo’s mission to improve lives.” Through this partnership, Ooredoo Qatar continues its role as a key enabler of community development, supporting initiatives that empower women and inspire all individuals—celebrating Qatar’s growing presence on the global stage.
ONE 171: Qatar Open Workout And Meet And Greet Highlights
February 17, 2025 – Doha, Qatar: ONE Championship™ (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, in partnership with Visit Qatar, held the ONE 171: Qatar Open Workout and Meet and Greet at the iconic Place Vendôme, featuring athletes competing at the event including Joshua Pacio, Jarred Brooks, Jonathan Haggerty, Wei Rui, Jake Peacock and Ritu Phogat. ONE 171: Qatar will be broadcast live on Thursday, February 20, from Lusail Sports Arena in Lusail, Qatar. Fans can visit watch.onefc.com for more information on how to watch. In the main event, ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio will face off against interim title holder Jarred Brooks for the third time in a highly anticipated World Title unification bout. In the co-main event, ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Haggerty will defend his belt against Chinese icon Wei Rui. ONE Championship would like to thank Official ONE 171 Presenting Partner Visit Qatar, Official Media Partner Media City Qatar, and Official Telecom Partner Ooredoo, as well as Gloabl Energy Drink Partner Monster Energy, Global Blockchain Partner Walrus, Official Venue Partner Lusail Sports Arena as well all supporting partners of ONE 171: Qatar. Joshua Pacio – ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion: “I love the people here, and I call this my home away from home because there are a lot of Filipinos here. I’m just so excited. Filipino Kabayans – I’m so happy to see you again! This is a new Joshua Pacio. I’m calm, and I’m collected. We will deliver on Thursday night.” Jarred Brooks – ONE Interim Strawweight MMA World Champion: “It’s amazing to be in Doha again. Everything in Doha is perfect. I love this country, I love the people in this country, and I love the Pinoys in the country. Thank you so much for your support. I am going to be the person who puts Joshua ‘The Passion’ Pacio out. I want to be ONE’s World Champion. I want to be the best in the world. I have the utmost respect for Joshua. He is a great man. But we are going inside the ring, and we are going to show you guys the energy.” Jonathan Haggerty – ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion: “It’s a pleasure to be here again in Doha, and I’m excited to put on a performance for everyone here. Everyone I face is going to be the best version of themselves, so it’s up to me to be my best version. Come Thursday, I’m ready. I am going in there for a demolition job. I understand he is number one for a reason. He’s a great opponent, so let’s see.” Wei Rui – ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title Challenger: “I’m well prepared, and this is my first time in Doha. I hope everyone will like my performance, as I’ve been waiting to win the ONE title belt for 20 years. I am really, really motivated; this is my third time striving for the word title and this time I am sure I will take it back to China”. Jake Peacock – ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai Contender: “I am thrilled that ONE Championship is coming to Qatar for the second time. The first event was amazing. I’m going to have a spectacular performance. Training is going fantastically, and I’m really excited to give an incredible performance to the fans in Qatar. ONE Championship is the biggest and the best promotion in the world. And I’m excited to showcase that to everyone here in Qatar. I’ve been here for a bit, and I might move here. We never know… People are amazing. They’re just lovely people. I’m going in there to take him out, and we’re shutting down and shutting him out right from the get-go. Two rounds max. That’s going to be great. Absolutely…there will be a finish.” Ritu Phogat – ONE Atomweight MMA Contender: “Qatar is a fantastic place and I am thrilled to be back here, doing what I love in ONE Championship. It has been a long time, but I’m ready. I want to prove I still belong among the best and that I have a lot left to offer in my career. This is only the beginning of the second chapter of ‘The Indian Tigress.’ I came here to represent all mothers and fight for all women out there to prove we are strong!”
Ooredoo Hosts Partner Appreciation Event to Celebrate 15 Years of Nojoom
Celebrating Partnership Milestones and Honouring Awardees Doha, Qatar, 29 January 2025, Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading telecommunications provider, marked the 15th anniversary of its Nojoom loyalty programme with a Partner Appreciation Event on 29 January 2025, at Mondrian Hotel. The event celebrated the contributions of Nojoom’s partners, recognising their integral role in the programme’s continued success. The ceremony featured speeches from Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Ooredoo’s Senior Director of Marketing Communications, and Mustafa Peracha, Ooredoo’s Chief Consumer Officer. Both speakers expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nojoom’s partners and reaffirmed Ooredoo’s commitment to strengthening these partnerships. The event culminated in an awards ceremony honouring 15 outstanding partners in recognition of their contributions to Nojoom’s growth and achievements. Customer Choice Award: Excellence in Customer Satisfaction Award: Customer Engagement Leader Award: Qatar National Bank (QNB)StarlinkQatar Airways Privilege Club – AviosQatar Islamic BankAl Rayan Bank MagrabiAl Jazeera PerfumesFNACSalam Stores and Studioand Village Markets Family Food CentreDukhan BankQatar International Islamic Bank QIIBJoyalukkasand Malabar Gold and Diamonds The event also marked the culmination of the Nojoom Shopping Festival, held from 28 November to 31 December 2024. During the festival, customers were rewarded with up to triple points on purchases with participating partners such as Starlink, SPAR, Shukran, Kalyan Jewellers, Salam Stores, Techno Blue, Jumbo Electronics, Yateem Optician, Hadarah Perfumes, Magrabi, and Seib Insurance. Additionally, a raffle prize pool of 5 million Nojoom points was up for grabs. Winners from the shopping festival and Instagram Reel contests were also celebrated during the event. Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Senior Director of Marketing Communications at Ooredoo Qatar, commented: “This event is a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the mutual success we’ve achieved together. As we celebrate 15 years of Nojoom, we remain committed to deepening these collaborations and enhancing the loyalty programme to benefit both our partners and members.” With over a million members enjoying the programme’s offers, Nojoom has become one of Ooredoo’s most popular programmes, collaborating with more than 100 partners across diverse sectors, including retail, hospitality, health, and more. The Partner Appreciation Event further highlights the company’s commitment to collaboration and innovation, aligning with its vision to enrich customers’ experiences and ensure they experience more with Ooredoo.
Qatar Calendar: This Week in Qatar
Qatar Calendar continues to offer a wide range of cultural, sporting, and entertainment activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. The second week of January 2025 is packed with a line-up of events that cater to diverse interests, from thrilling adventures and artistic performances to family-friendly attractions and retail offers. Cultural Highlights Marmi Festival 2025 held at Sabkhat Marmi in Sealine until February 1, this festival celebrates the rich heritage of Qatari falconry and hunting traditions. Daily competitions and cultural displays bring the spirit of the desert to life, offering an immersive experience for heritage enthusiasts. Kahraman Exhibition, scheduled to run from January 7 till January 10, is back with its 5th edition showcasing amber from 14 countries around the world at Katara Hall. Theatrical Performances Crime in the City, running from January 8 to 11 at U Venue, is a thrilling theatrical production that blends suspense and drama, offering a captivating experience for theatregoers.Al Theyaba Play runs from January 9 to 11 at Katara Drama Theatre, immersing audiences in a powerful mix of drama, emotion, and talent. Sporting Events Doha Marathon by Ooredoo is taking place on January 17 at Hotel Park in Doha. With categories for all skill levels, the event promotes fitness and community spirit. Mawater at Sealine will run an event dedicated to all car enthusiasts from January 3 to 27. Family-Friendly Activities Ras Abrouq continues to captivate visitors with a diverse range of activities and attractions which include hot-air balloon experience and archery sessions for adventure enthusiasts. Families can enjoy children’s workshops, as well as engaging roaming acts that entertain visitors throughout the site. A camel parade creating a unique blend of culture and adventure for all ages will also be on show Sealine Season offers activities for both adventure seekers and families. It features desert safaris, monster bus rides, ATV buggies, horse riding, and boat trips, with free sports and children’s activities. Weekends include fishing trips, stargazing, and Muay Thai classes. Mohammed Al Bakri and Abdulaziz Al Thuehi will be performing live on January 10, followed by a fireworks display. Al Wakra Safari Zoo, ideal for families, offers educational and recreational activities amidst a serene environment. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with wildlife, camel rides, and interactive exhibits designed to inspire a connection with nature. It is located at Souq al Wakra and scheduled to run from January 1 till February 1. Winter Market at Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North runs until 27 February. It features exquisite seasonal culinary delights, kids’ activities, accessories and artisanal crafts. Retail and Entertainment Vibrant Live Shows & Endless Fun for Kids will be running at Mall of Qatar throughout January. Shop Qatar 2025, running until 1 February, offers unbeatable discounts, exciting retail experiences, and the chance to win grand prizes, including luxury cars. Daily entertainment across participating malls enhances the shopping experience.The dynamic line-up ensures entertainment for visitors of all ages. For more information on Qatar Calander’s 2025 events, visit www.visitqatar.com, download the Visit Qatar app, and follow @QatarCalendar on social media.
GSMA M360 MENA opens in Doha with AI and digital partnerships at the forefront
Three regional partners have joined the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, while the GSMA’s latest Mobile Economy MENA report highlights significant genAI adoption across the region 18 November 2024, Doha: Under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, M360 MENA opened its doors in Doha today with Host Sponsor Ooredoo Qatar, in partnership with the GSMA and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Qatar (MCIT), and Media City Qatar. As mobile services are projected to contribute $360 billion to the region’s GDP, the event brings together leaders from the industry, technology, telecoms, and government sectors to foster the advancement of the MENA digital economy. The Opening Ceremony was led by Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, alongside Ooredoo Group CEO Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo; Ooredoo Qatar’s CEO, Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Bin Mohammad Al Thani; and GSMA’s Head of MENA, Jawad Abbassi, with attendance from high-level dignitaries, ministers, government officials, and esteemed delegates from across the region. Following the Opening Ceremony, a delegation of senior executives from Ooredoo and GSMA, embarked on an exhibition tour. The tour featured visits to key exhibits, including the Ooredoo booth, Media City Qatar, Invest Qatar, SAP, and Google, where they explored innovative solutions aimed at accelerating digital transformation. Key topics on this year’s M360 MENA agenda include the 5G monetisation, the importance of building AI-ready networks, the smart projects unlocked by digital innovations, and the digital partnerships key to advancing the region’s digital economy. During his opening remarks, The State of Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, said: “Guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030, our country is committed to creating a knowledge-based economy, with technology and digital transformation positioned at the core of our sustainable development aspirations. M360 MENA in Doha stands as a testament to The State of Qatar’s enduring commitment to fostering digital innovation and collaboration across the MENA region. We truly believe that by embracing advanced technologies like AI and 5G, and by building strategic digital partnerships, we can drive sustainable growth and enhance the quality of life for all citizens. This event is a valuable platform to discuss and strategize the digital future of MENA to support its advancement.” Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, Chief Executive Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, commented: “Hosting M360 MENA in Doha reflects Ooredoo Qatar’s commitment to advancing digital transformation across the region. We are proud to be at the forefront, leading initiatives in AI and 5G that have a direct impact on enhancing connectivity and quality of life for the people of Qatar. By collaborating with the GSMA and our regional partners, we are dedicated to creating a robust digital ecosystem that supports our nation’s vision of becoming a leader in technology and innovation. Together, we are laying the foundations for a future where digital connectivity empowers communities and strengthens our economy.” Taking to the stage for keynote 1, the GSMA’s Director General, Mats Granryd, said: “It’s fantastic to be hosting M360 MENA in Doha for the first time, and we look forward to exploring the powerful potential of AI, digital partnerships, and mobile connectivity for MENA. With mobile services projected to contribute $360 billion to the region’s GDP by 2030, M360 MENA stands as a powerful platform for collaboration and the innovation that will advance the region’s digital transformation.” Ooredoo and Batelco are the latest partners to join the GSMA Open Gateway initiative in the Middle East region. These latest additions mean 67 mobile operator groups, representing 279 networks and three-quarters of global mobile connections, have now signed up to the initiative, alongside many of the world’s leading technology companies. Early Open Gateway implementations in MENA have focussed on fraud prevention and security, supporting the region’s drive towards digital collaboration. Launched at MWC Barcelona 2023, the GSMA Open Gateway is a framework of network APIs that provides developers with universal access to operator networks, designed to speed up the creation of new digital products and services. Mobile Economy MENA 2024 report The GSMA launched its Mobile Economy MENA 2024 report, which forecasts that 5G will account for half of all mobile connections in MENA by 2030. The report finds that genAI adoption is gaining significant momentum across MENA, with operators leveraging AI to enhance customer service, optimise network performance, and drive new business opportunities. Other findings include: This year’s M360 MENA also introduced the GSMA Foundry AI Use Case Library, featuring over 60 real-world AI use cases from across the globe, including Huawei, ZTE, Ericsson, Nokia, and IBM. The library showcases how AI is powering mobile technology in areas from customer service to network planning, with the GSMA aiming to rapidly expand the library with use cases across the mobile ecosystem. Presented by the GSMA, M360 is a series of global events that unify the regional mobile ecosystem. The events aim to discover, develop and deliver innovation that serves as the foundation for positive business environments and societal change. The calendar of GSMA events returns next year, beginning with MWC Barcelona which returns to the Fira Gran Via between 3-6 March 2025. Find out more about the GSMA here.
