Hilton Doha The Pearl Welcomes the Holy Month with its Ramadan Souq
Doha, Qatar, February 24, 2025 – Hilton Doha The Pearl is delighted to announce the return of its Ramadan Souq, a signature experience that has become a cherished tradition within the community. Building on the overwhelming success of previous years, the hotel promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Arabian hospitality. Guests are welcomed to embrace the spirit of Ramadan by enjoying outdoor Iftar and Suhoor by the poolside, under the starlit sky. Featuring a blend of tradition and Ramadan spirit, the Souq offers a truly unique dining experience. Traditional tents setting create the perfect atmosphere for an evening of connection and celebration. Guests can indulge in a lavish buffet spread complemented by live cooking, grill, pasta, shawarma and sushi stations, as well as a dedicated kids’ corner. With a weekly rotating menu, each visit ensures a new culinary adventure. “At Hilton Doha The Pearl, we take pride in creating exceptional experiences that reflect the spirit of Ramadan while adding our distinctive touch of innovation and excellence,” said Daniel Van Wyk, General Manager of Hilton Doha The Pearl. “We are thrilled to welcome guests once again to our Ramadan Souq and to continue celebrating the warmth, togetherness, and hospitality that defines this Holy Month” added Daniel. The Ramadan Souq is located on the fifth floor of Hilton Doha The Pearl. Iftar is priced at QAR 240 per person and will be available from sunset till 20:30pm, while Suhoor is priced at QAR 150 per person and will be served from 21:30pm till 00:30am. Guests can also book for both Iftar and Suhoor using The Entertainer, Urban Points and My Book Qatar applications. In addition to the Ramadan Souq, The Kitchen at Hilton Doha The Pearl will remain open for non-fasting guests for breakfast and lunch, offering a diversified dining menu. Hilton Doha The Pearl invites all guests to enjoy this Ramadan in a setting where great food and warm hospitality creates exceptional moments with family and friends.For reservations please call +97444924444 or email us on DOHPR_Ramadan.ThePearl@Hilton.com
Qatar International Food Festival 2025 concludes with record-breaking number of visitors
The 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) has successfully concluded, attracting more than 365,000 visitors over the course of 11 days. Organised by Visit Qatar, the festival transformed Hotel Park into a vibrant culinary and entertainment hub, delivering a unique gastronomic experience to locals, residents and visitors. A total of 180 vendors participated this year, showcasing Qatar’s rich gastronomic scene, while more than 28 international vendors brought global flavours to the festival, creating a unique fusion of tastes and experiences. For the first time this year, QIFF featured a Michelin Guide Village where guests indulged in exclusive creations from nine Michelin-starred restaurants from around the world. Meanwhile, QIFF Junior, another brand-new activation this year, engaged over 5,000 children, further enhancing the festival’s dynamic atmosphere and reaffirming its position as a premier family-friendly event. This year also featured the debut of QIFF Ring, where visitors participated in lively food competitions, from eating challenges to juice-making and decorating contests. The QIFF Ring hosting 36 competitions, drawing 360 competitors, and awarding over 500 winners, including audience members, with a total of 5,400 attendees. QIFF 2025 also included a Cooking Studio, which hosted interactive workshops led by renowned local and international chefs. In addition, nine renowned chefs hosted exclusive Chef’s Table experiences for over 70 guests in total. Further elevating the festive experience, Dinner in the Sky offered visitors a unique culinary experience, combining gourmet dining with breathtaking views of Doha from 50 metres above ground. Ahmed Hamad Al Binali, Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, from Visit Qatar commented: “QIFF 2025 has been a resounding success, welcoming more than 365,000 visitors, reaffirming Qatar’s position as a premier culinary and cultural destination. As one of Qatar’s longest-running festivals, QIFF continues to grow each year, introducing new experiences, engaging programming, and innovative themes that captivate both residents and visitors. The festival not only celebrates culinary excellence but also fosters meaningful connections among communities. We extend our appreciation to all visitors, chefs, and partners whose contributions made this edition truly remarkable, and we remain committed to further enhancing Qatar’s events and entertainment offering on a global stage.” Spanning several districts, the festival showcased Qatar’s culinary diversity, from traditional street food to fine dining at Flavours within Qatar. Other districts showcased Latin American specialities and global gourmet delights. The Healthy Corner district highlighted sustainable cuisine, while the Coffee & Bakeries district delighted visitors with artisanal brews and sweet treats. Lastly, the QIFF VIP Area provided an exclusive dining experience. Each year, Visit Qatar partners with Hifz Alnaema Center as part of its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This collaboration saw the centre collect and package surplus food every evening, distributing parcels to those in need. With record-breaking attendance and a dynamic showcase of food, culture, and entertainment, QIFF 2025 has solidified its status as a flagship event on Qatar’s annual calendar. From captivating musical concerts on the main stage and engaging activities for all ages, QIFF 2025 delivered an immersive celebration of Qatar’s rich culinary and cultural landscape.
Five must-try experiences at QIFF 2025
Qatar’s most exciting food festival presents new attractions and unforgettable culinary experiences. The Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) opens daily from 16:00 to 23:00 on weekdays and 15:00 to 00:00 on weekends until February 22, offering plenty to explore, savour, and enjoy. QIFF Ring New to QIFF 2025, the QIFF Ring offers visitors an exciting arena to compete and take on thrilling culinary challenges. From showcasing creativity in the ‘Cake Decoration Competition’ to family fun with a father-son ‘Juice Making Competition’ or taking on the classic ‘Burger Eating Challenge’, visitors can participate in a variety of exciting culinary challenges. The QIFF Ring promises an unforgettable experience for foodies to compete and win valuable prizes. Participants can register on www.qiffring.com The Cooking Studio Step into The Cooking Studio and witness 40 world-class chefs in action as they showcase their skills, share exclusive recipes, and bring the latest food trends to life. This interactive experience features live cooking demos, masterclasses, interviews, and hands-on workshops led by renowned local and international chefs. From Qatari delicacies to global flavours, the studio’s themed sessions this year include Spice It Up, Sweet Escape, EcoBites, Flame On! Grain Fiesta, Grow & Glow, Greet & Meat, Organic Scene. Upcoming International chefs taking part in the Cooking Studio include, Benjamin Nast, Surender Mohan, Fabrice Rosso, Nicolas Garate, and Karim Bourgi. Upcoming local chefs include Aisha Al Tamimi, Noof Al Marri, Mohamed Kamal and more. Michelin Guide Village The Michelin Guide Village, a highlight of QIFF 2025, brings world-class dining to the festival with nine Michelin-rated restaurants offering curated tasting menus at affordable prices. This exclusive experience gives visitors the chance to enjoy culinary excellence from renowned Michelin-starred establishments, including ARAYA, Aramburu, Talea by Antonio Guida, Trèsind Studio, Restaurant À L’aise, CTC Urban Gastronomy, R.HAAN, Molino de Urdániz, and LASAI Restaurante. Dinner in the Sky A fan-favourite experience, Dinner in the Sky makes its highly anticipated return to QIFF 2025, offering guests the chance to enjoy a gourmet meal 40 meters above the ground. Curated by talented chefs from Rixos Gulf Hotel, the experience combines exquisite dining with breathtaking panoramic views of the West Bay skyline. Visitors can choose from several curated expereinces throughout the day starting from 15:00 to 22:30 for a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure. These include High Tea, Twilight Flights, Dinner in the Sky, and the Moonlight Flight. To book your reservation visit, https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/dinner-in-the-sky-qatar. QIFF Juniors Zone A new addition to QIFF 2025, QIFF Juniors is a dedicated children’s zone offering fun activities and interactive experiences. This space features a lineup of family-friendly entertainment, including live performances, interactive educational shows that blend learning with fun, as well as clown acts and mesmerizing magic shows to captivate young audiences. Children can also enjoy endless activities like Mizo & Miza and gymnastics preformances. Additionally, the zone offers interactive stations where kids can explore their creativity. Visitors can park at DECC and access Hotel Park via the designated tunnel or metro users can take a short walk from DECC Metro Station. For the daily event schedule and updates, visit @qiff.qa on Instagram.
Visit Qatar to Host Michael Bublé’s Debut Live Concerts This May
Visit Qatar is set to welcome global music icon Michael Bublé for the first time in Qatar, as he takes the stage for two live performances on May 23rd and 24th at Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Early bird sales are available from February 19th to 28th with general ticket sales opening to the public on April 1st, 2025. This highly anticipated concert is part of Qatar’s dynamic calendar of events, which features world-class exhibitions, a variety of live performances, and major sporting competitions, catering to a diverse audience. The Grammy Award-winning artist Michael Bublé, known for his signature blend of pop and jazz, will bring his unique live performances to a diverse audience in Doha, one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. Al Mayassa Theatre, a premier venue designed to host theatrical and musical productions, will provide concertgoers with an immersive experience. With a capacity of over 2,000 and a state-of-the-art sound system, the theatre offers the ideal setting for this event. Early bird tickets for Michael Bublé’s concerts are now available at https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa/music/28863/michaelbuble?presales=MjAyNS0wMi0xNCAxNDo0OTowOV9tOXI6 and https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/97792/michael-buble-in-doha
Qatar Participates in the 9th GCC Ministerial Meeting for Tourism Officials
The State of Qatar participated in the 9th Meeting of Their Excellencies, the Ministers responsible for tourism in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries which was held February 17th, 2025, in Kuwait. The meeting explored ways to enhance tourism cooperation among member states and support regional integration in this vital sector. The Qatari delegation was led by His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism. The ministers commended the key achievements of Gulf tourism in 2024, which strengthened the GCC’s position as an attractive global tourism destination. These accomplishments were driven by major events and high-quality projects that promote tourism diversity and offer exceptional visitor experiences. The meeting also discussed the potential for further tourism collaboration among Gulf states through specialised discussion sessions, which examined prospects for tourism integration, mechanisms for unifying regional promotional efforts, and enhanced cooperation in organising joint events and initiatives. During the meeting, Al Ain was announced as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025, in recognition of its rich tourism offerings, including natural, cultural, and heritage assets that reflect the region’s diversity. Additionally, the establishment of GCC Tourism Day on January 20th each year was approved, providing an annual occasion to highlight the achievements of the Gulf tourism sector and showcase leading projects and initiatives. At the conclusion of the meeting, it was agreed that the next ministerial meeting will take place in April 2026 in the United Arab Emirates, continuing efforts to strengthen cooperation and develop joint tourism policies that support the sustainable growth of the Gulf’s tourism sector.
Qatar Tourism Concludes the 51st Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East and the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” Conference
The State of Kuwait has been appointed as the Chair of the Regional Committee for the 2025-2027 term, and The State of Qatar has been appointed as the First Vice-Chair of the committee. Qatar Tourism hosted the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East on February 12, 2025, with high-level delegations from thirteen member states. The meeting focused on evaluating achievements, analysing sector trends, and identifying key priorities for boosting tourism in the region. The UN Tourism confirmed that the Middle East had the fastest global recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in 2024. The meeting emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. Kuwait was appointed to serve as Chair of the Regional Commission for the 2025-2027 period, with Qatar appointed as First Vice-Chair and Iraq as Second Vice-Chair. Qatar’s appointment as First Vice-Chair reflects its growing leadership in the tourism sector and its active role in driving regional and global tourism development. The meeting also confirmed that Kuwait will host the next session (the 52nd Regional Meeting) in 2026, underscoring the continued regional collaboration to promote sustainable tourism development in the Middle East. Additionally, Qatar Tourism hosted the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry After the World Cup” conference on February 13, 2025. The event brought together experts and specialists to discuss the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the region, focusing on how to leverage the momentum from large-scale events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ to boost sports tourism. The conference highlighted Qatar’s successes in this area and the role of major investments in sports clubs and global athletes in reinforcing the Middle East’s position as a prominent sports and tourism hub globally. The conference also explored the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience in the region, the collaboration between Qatar and neighbouring countries to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role of sports in promoting the destination’s brand across the region, drawing from Qatar’s successful experiences and lessons learned. These events reinforce Qatar Tourism’s commitment to enhancing the country’s status as a global tourism hub, hosting major events, and developing innovative strategies to support sustainable tourism. This is in line with Qatar’s broader vision to drive economic growth and strengthen tourism as a vital sector for the future.
Qatar International Food Festival 2025 kicks off with an unforgettable culinary showcase
Visit Qatar inaugurates the 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) with a grand opening ceremony at Hotel Park today, kicking off a ten-day long celebration of gastronomy and entertainment. The festival will feature over 100 local vendors, 27 international restaurants and cafes, and plenty of entertainment shows. QIFF 2025 is set to be the largest and most exciting edition to date. The festival promises an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing global and local flavours, while also reflecting Qatar’s vision to strengthen its position as a leading destination for cultural exchange and tourism. During his opening remarks, Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said, emphasised QIFF’s significance in positioning Qatar as a premier global destination for gastronomy and hospitality. He said: “The Qatar International Food Festival has evolved into a global platform that celebrates culinary excellence while reflecting Qatar’s rich cultural diversity and commitment to innovation. Its continued success underscores the pivotal role of the hospitality and dining sectors in advancing Qatar’s tourism landscape, serving as a key driver in delivering world-class experiences to visitors and residents alike.” Among the highlights of this year’s festival is the experience of the epitome of culinary excellence at the Michelin Guide Village, where you can savour exclusive creations from some of the world’s finest Michelin-star chefs. QIFF Ring, which is a competition Arena, where visitors will witness chefs cook and compete on centre stage. In addition, a Cooking Studio will welcome renowned chefs from both Qatar and abroad, hosting interactive workshops and cooking classes. For those seeking a truly unique experience, Dinner in the Sky offers an exhilarating dining adventure suspended 50 meters above the ground, providing guests with stunning views of the entire festival and the Doha skyline. This year’s festival expansive location is divided into immersive districts, each offering unique dining experiences and interactive activities. The Flavours within Qatar section celebrates Qatar’s rich culinary landscape and showcases both traditional street food and fine dining, while the Latin Food District offers authentic dishes such as tacos, empanadas, and ceviche, providing a taste of Latin America. The International Flavours District brings together global street food and gourmet flavours, while the Healthy Corner focuses on plant-based and sustainable cuisine. The Coffee & Bakeries Corner serves as a haven for coffee and dessert enthusiasts, offering artisanal coffee and a wide range of sweet treats. The QIFF VIP Area provides an exclusive, luxurious dining experience with gourmet food, personalised service, and top-tier decor, offering a refined atmosphere for guests seeking a premium experience. Families are also invited to enjoy daily movie screenings, kids’ workshops within QIFF Juniors, and other engaging outdoor activities, ensuring entertainment for visitors of all ages. QIFF 2025 runs until February 22nd, offering visitors an unmissable chance to indulge in the world’s finest flavours, explore new culinary trends, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere that has become synonymous with this signature event. Visitors attending QIFF are advised to park at the DECC parking facility and access Hotel Park via the designated tunnel. Alternatively, those using the DECC Metro Station can reach Hotel Park with a short walk. For more information and updates, visit https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/qatar-international-food-festival follow @qiff.qa on social media.
Qatar set to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East
Qatar Tourism is preparing to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, set to take place in Doha on February 12th. The meeting will bring together tourism ministers, senior officials, and experts from various countries in the region, as well as leadership from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). The selection of Doha as the host city underscores Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector and its leadership role in promoting both regional and international cooperation. This is especially significant considering the country’s recent successes in hosting major global events, most notably the FIFA World Cup 2022™. During the meeting, the UN Tourism will present reports on the sector’s performance for the 2024-2025 period, and future policies and plans will be discussed. HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, stated: “Hosting the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic and social growth. Qatar has proven its capability to organise and host major international events, establishing itself as a global model for sustainable tourism. We are confident that this meeting will further advance regional cooperation in the tourism sector, and we look forward to exchanging ideas and expertise with partners from across the region to bolster the Middle East’s position as a unique global tourism destination.” In addition to the ministerial sessions and official meetings, the conference titled “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” will be held on February 13th at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre, featuring a distinguished group of experts and specialists. The conference will explore the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the Middle East, their role in fostering sustainable tourism, and the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience. It will also focus on how Qatar and its neighbouring countries are collaborating to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role sport plays in enhancing destination branding across the region, drawing on Qatar’s successes and the lessons learned from its experiences. Qatar Tourism remains committed to advancing its ambitious strategy to establish Qatar as a leading global tourism destination, focusing on diversifying tourism offerings, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering sector investment, all in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Additionally, efforts to strengthen regional collaboration through platforms such as UN Tourism are contributing to the development of a more integrated and sustainable tourism sector.
Disney The Magic Box Premieres in Doha in April 2025
Disney The Magic Box highly anticipated premiere at the prestigious Al Mayassa Theatre from April 3rd to April 12th, 2025, as part of its global tour. These musical promises to captivate audiences with over 75 of Disney’s most beloved songs, brought to life through breathtaking choreography, puppetry, and stunning visual effects. Presented by Fever, the leading global live entertainment discovery platform, Proactiv Entertainment, a renowned promoter of large-scale productions, and in partnership with Visit Qatar. This collaboration underscores Visit Qatar’s commitment to enhancing the country’s entertainment landscape. By securing internationally acclaimed productions such as The Magic Box, Visit Qatar continues to elevate Doha’s position as a premier destination for world-class cultural and family-friendly experiences. The production features over 75 iconic Disney songs from legendary composers, including Alan Menken, Elton John, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tim Rice, and Hans Zimmer. Audiences can look forward to timeless hits such as “A Whole New World” (Aladdin), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto), “How Far I’ll Go” (Moana), “Circle of Life” (The Lion King), “Let It Go” (Frozen), and “This Wish” (Wish). Following its successful run in Buenos Aires and South Africa, Disney ‘The Magic Box is set to mesmerize audiences in Doha. The musical’s international creative team includes Thaddeus McWhinnie Phillips (Co-Book writer, Director, and Set Designer), Lynne Kurdziel Formato (Choreographer), Isaac Saul (Musical Director, Arranger, and Orchestrator), and Felipe Gamba Paredes (Creative Producer, Co-Book writer). Fans eager to experience the magic can buy tickets from Virgin Megastore or Fever. For more details on Visit Qatar’s upcoming events, visit visitqatar.com. SHOW INFORMATIONVenue: Al Mayassa TheatreOpening Date: April 3rd, 2025Running Time: 90 minutes (no intermission)Recommended Age: 6 years and above (No children under 3)Performance Schedule: Weekends: Saturdays – 14:00, 17:30Ticket Prices: Starting at QAR 85
Visit Qatar unveils Khor Al Adaid Winter Season Interactive Map
Khor Al Adaid, one of Qatar’s most iconic natural landmarks, has long served as a popular tourist attraction. Known globally as the Inland Sea, this UNESCO-recognised natural reserve is a sanctuary for both adventure and nature enthusiasts, offering a striking landscape where the golden dunes seamlessly merge with tranquil waters. To further elevate the visitor experience, Visit Qatar has released a Khor Al Adaid Winter Season Interactive Map, providing comprehensive details on the array of activities, accommodations, and services available to citizens and residents from October through to April. Activities at Khor Al Adaid The Khor Al Adaid Winter Season Interactive Map showcased the diverse range of activities available for all types of adventurers. Thrill-seekers can enjoy dune bashing or quad biking at the Sealine ATV Zone, and high-speed motorsport action at the Sealine Circuit Sports Club – Mawater and Qatar Racing Club Track. For those looking to explore from above, Sky Masters Air Sports provides breathtaking aerial experiences over the desert. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can visit designated diving and fishing areas or capture stunning images at the Qatar Desert Flamingos Bird Photoshoot. Tranquil experiences such as camel rides, the Doha Bus Desert Safari, and witnessing the sunrise at Inland Sea Sunrise Point offer a more relaxed way to appreciate Qatar’s landscape. Meanwhile, equestrian fans can engage in horse endurance activities and explore the cultural heritage of Qatar Endurance Village, adding a traditional touch to the season’s offerings. Camps and resorts For visitors seeking an extended stay, Khor Al Adaid offers a range of accommodations that blend luxury with tradition. Options include Al Majles Resort, Ramlah Camps, and Regency Sealine Camp, each providing an authentic desert retreat. For a more exclusive experience, The Outpost Al Barari offers a unique fusion of nature and luxury, while Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort provides a beachfront escape. Adventurers can also opt for Four-by-Four Camp, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the desert landscape. Comprehensive services To ensure a seamless and comfortable visit, essential services are readily available throughout the area. The Sealine Tyre Pressure Station provides convenient facilities for adjusting vehicle tyre pressure, ensuring a smooth desert travel experience. The WOQOD Petrol Station offers reliable fuel access for uninterrupted journeys, while Al Meera serves as a go-to retail store for essential supplies. With the release of the Khor Al Adaid Winter Season Map, visitors now have the tools to efficiently plan their journey and explore one of Qatar’s most remarkable natural wonders. Whether seeking adventure, cultural enrichment, or relaxation, Khor Al Adaid guarantees an unforgettable experience.
