Qatar Participates in the 9th GCC Ministerial Meeting for Tourism Officials
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe 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.
Ooredoo Qatar Announces Asma Al Thani as Brand Ambassador, Championing Resilience and Women Empowerment
Reading Time: 3 minutesLeading 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.
Msheireb Properties Announces 2025 Innovation in Design Awards in Partnership with Fast Company Middle East
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, Qatar – 17 February 2025: Msheireb Properties announced the 2025 Innovation in Design Awards, a prestigious initiative in partnership with Fast Company Middle East that champions creativity, innovation, and sustainability in design and architecture. With an expanded list of categories, the second annual awards will highlight groundbreaking contributions that align with Msheireb Properties’ vision of transforming urban living and advancing Qatar’s position as a global hub for innovation excellence. “The Innovation in Design Awards presented by Msheireb Properties was created to promote design thinking as a catalyst for positive change, spotlighting ideas that tackle individual, community, and global challenges. By expanding the award categories for our second season, we want to inspire even more trailblazers who are redefining the future of urban living,” said Eng. Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari, CEO of Msheireb Properties. “Design is the ongoing story of human progress. And so, to celebrate the best of design is to recognise some of the most important human achievements. By honouring outstanding design work, these awards will not only acknowledge corporate achievements but also inspire others in the industry to strive for excellence,” said Ravi Raman, publisher of Fast Company Middle East. The Innovation in Design Awards were launched last year to recognise exemplary design-driven solutions, signalling Msheireb Properties’ plans to be an active player in shaping the future of design innovation in the Middle East. It was launched during the first Fast Company Innovation by Design Summit. This year’s winners will once again be crowned during the official awards ceremony on the sidelines of the Innovation by Design Summit on May 21 in Msheireb Downtown Doha. Last year’s winners included global brand consultancy Landor for human-centric design, cardiac diagnostic technology innovator Dr. Mario Garcia for technology-powered design, MAD Architects for sustainable design, and Pandora for luxury and lifestyle design. Entries for the 2025 awards are now open to designers, architects, and innovators from around the world. Winners will be selected based on criteria such as replicability, design thinking, and audience impact at individual, community, and global levels. The expanded award categories for 2025 include: To enter the 2025 Awards for Innovation in Design, please visit https://event.fastcompanyme.com/innovation-in-design-awards-2025/ while submissions close on 10 April 2025. This initiative is part of Msheireb Properties’ ongoing efforts to promote sustainable urban development and enhance quality of life through innovative and thoughtful design solutions. It reinforces Msheireb’s dedication to creating a brighter, more sustainable future while positioning Doha as a leading city for cultural and design excellence.
ONE 171: Qatar Open Workout And Meet And Greet Highlights
Reading Time: 3 minutesFebruary 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!”
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
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe 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.
Junior’s Opens Fifth Branch in Al Wakrah, Bringing its Famous Dining Experience to the Community
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, Qatar – February 16th, 2025 – junior’s Qatar is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest branch in Al Wakrah, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion across Qatar. The highly anticipated event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, family entertainment, and exclusive offers for attendees, creating an unforgettable experience for all. This new location is junior’s fifth branch in Qatar, following the successful opening of the Izghawa branch earlier in January 2025. The expansion into Al Wakrah is a testament to junior’s continued growth and its unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience to customers in more communities across the country. The New Love is excited to bring its popular food, excellent service, and welcoming atmosphere to the Al Wakrah community, further strengthening its presence in Qatar. “We are thrilled to open our doors to Al Wakrah and be a part of this vibrant community. It’s a major step in our strategic plan to expand our footprint in Qatar,” said Mr. Abdulla Al Ansari, CEO of Al Ansari Group and Founder of junior’s. “We have received countless requests from the customers to bring junior’s to this part of Qatar, and we are glad to bring them The New Love. Our goal is to serve high-quality food and create a warm and welcoming space where families and friends can come together. This opening represents our ongoing commitment to investing in our local community and catering to our customers wherever they are.” junior’s expansion into Al Wakrah underscores the brand’s commitment to fostering stronger community connections and enhancing customer experiences throughout Qatar. By bringing the same great food and service to a new location, junior’s ensures that its loyal customers have even more convenient access to their favorite dining experience. With each new location, junior’s further solidifies its position as a key player in the Qatari dining scene, blending quality, community, and consistency in every burger served. Whether it’s a casual meal with family or a gathering with friends, junior’s continues to be the destination where unforgettable moments are made.
Al Fardan and Mouawad Take Jewellery to the Next Level
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, Qatar – Al Fardan Jewellery, a house of heritage and distinction, proudly announces its strategic partnership with Mouawad, the prestigious high jewellery house renowned for its timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. This collaboration marks a significant moment in the world of fine jewellery, offering discerning clients exclusive access to Mouawad’s exquisite creations within Al Fardan Jewellery’s distinguished boutiques. A Legacy of Pearls and Unparalleled Craftsmanship This partnership unites two legendary houses that share an unwavering commitment to artistry, refinement, and excellence. Al Fardan Jewellery, an esteemed name with a history deeply rooted in the pearl trading industry, has long been synonymous with prestige and exclusivity. For generations, the Al Fardan family has been instrumental in preserving the region’s illustrious pearl diving heritage, sourcing the world’s most coveted natural pearls, and transforming them into breathtaking masterpieces. Under the visionary leadership of Hussein Ibrahim Al Fardan, the brand has curated some of the most exquisite pearl collections, including rare and historically significant pieces treasured by collectors worldwide. Through this collaboration, Al Fardan Jewellery will not only showcase Mouawad’s high jewellery and fine jewellery collections but will also continue its dedication to preserving and celebrating its pearl heritage. This partnership presents an extraordinary opportunity for clients to explore a unique blend of contemporary elegance and timeless tradition—where Mouawad’s artistry meets Al Fardan’s legacy of pearls. Statements from Leadership Mouawad Co-Guardians shared their enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to join forces with Al Fardan Jewellery, a brand that shares our passion for excellence, exclusivity, and timeless elegance. This partnership will provide a unique opportunity for collectors and jewellery enthusiasts to experience Mouawad’s exceptional craftsmanship through a trusted and established luxury retailer.” A statement by Mr. Ali Al Fardan: “For decades, Al Fardan Jewellery has been at the forefront of luxury, rooted in our deep heritage in pearls and fine jewellery. Our partnership with Mouawad is a natural alignment of our values, bringing together two houses that embody craftsmanship, heritage, and exclusivity. We look forward to presenting our clients with not only Mouawad’s extraordinary creations but also a celebration of our own rich history, particularly our legacy in natural pearls.”
Qatar Participates in the Third AI Action Summit in Paris
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, Qatar – 12 February 2025: The state of Qatar participated in the third AI Action summit, held from February 10 – 11 in Paris. The Qatari delegation to the summit was led by His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Almannai, Minister of Communication and Information Technology. The Summit attracted widespread international participation, bringing together heads of state and government, leaders of international organizations, corporate executives, academics, and civil society representatives to discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on societies, economies, and governance structures. Qatar’s participation reaffirms its commitment to fostering international collaboration on AI governance and development, underscoring the importance of establishing a comprehensive global framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and equitable access to AI solutions. Commenting on Qatar’s involvement, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Almannai stated: “The Summit offers a unique opportunity for global stakeholders to build a harmonized AI ecosystem. By uniting governments, industry, and civil society, we can ensure that AI innovation is not only a driver of economic growth but also a force for social good, cultural preservation, and global well-being.” The AI Action Summit focuses on five key pillars that frame the challenges and opportunities presented by AI: Public Interest in AI, Future of Work, Innovation and Culture, Trust in AI, and Global AI Governance. The Summit concluded with a shared commitment to develop international strategies and partnerships that foster responsible AI innovation. Qatar’s leadership and active engagement in these discussions highlight the nation’s vision for inclusive digital transformation and a future in which AI benefits all. Underscoring Qatar’s position as a hub for digital and technological innovation in the region, Qatar is hosting the World Summit AI for five consecutive years, following the successful conclusion of its first edition last December. Qatar is also preparing to host the second edition of the Web Summit at the end of February. These high-profile global events reflect the State’s efforts to build a supportive environment for technology development and AI advancements.
Moscow Strengthens Tourism Ties with Qatar Amid Growing Visitor Numbers
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – [February, 12] – The Moscow City Tourism Committee embarked on a strategic roadshow in the Middle East, reinforcing its commitment to fostering long-term tourism partnerships. With Qatar emerging as a key market, the delegation is focused on accelerating visitor growth, deepening collaboration, and showcasing Moscow as a premier destination for travelers from the region. Tourism between Moscow and the Qatar has witnessed unprecedented growth. In the first nine months of 2024, approximately 9,000 travelers visited Moscow — a remarkable increase compared to the entire year of 2023 and three times higher than the number recorded in 2019. The seamless visa-free entry and 14 weekly direct flights between Moscow and Doha have significantly facilitated travel, further cementing Moscow’s appeal as a key destination for Middle Eastern visitors. During meetings in Doha, discussions focused on elevating Moscow’s appeal among Qatar visitors by leveraging cultural exchange, exclusive events, and tailored travel experiences. Popular travel segments among Middle Eastern visitors include group, family, corporate, medical, and sports tourism, each designed to provide immersive and personalized experiences. During his meeting with representatives of the tourism sector, His Excellency Mr. Dmitry Dogadkin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the State of Qatar, acknowledged the contributions of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. “We are pleased to see that a growing number of Qataris and expatriates in the country are becoming more familiar with Moscow, its culture, and its history, providing them with a broader opportunity to discover Russia,” said the Ambassador. “We hear only positive feedback from tourists who have visited our capital and other cities in Russia.” His Excellency highlighted the nature of the Russia-Qatar relations, which are based on the principle of mutual respect, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic cooperation in all areas of shared interest. In this context, the Russian diplomat explained that tourism remains a strong bridge between nations and a key element in enhancing human and cultural ties between people. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the experience for Middle Eastern tourists, Moscow is making significant investments in hospitality, infrastructure, and visitor services. The city is expanding its high-end accommodation options, enhancing Arabic-language accessibility, and curating exceptional culinary experiences to cater to Middle Eastern preferences. “Moscow is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for tourists from the Middle East thanks to our well-developed infrastructure, mild climate, and unique blend of modern amenities with rich Russian traditions. Our official tourism portal, Discover Moscow, serves as an invaluable resource for international visitors, providing essential travel information and guiding them through the city’s attractions. With over 22,000 dining options, an unrivaled shopping scene, and an iconic metro system that doubles as a cultural landmark, Moscow offers an enriching experience for every visitor,” said Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. As Moscow continues to position itself as a must-visit global destination, expanding strategic partnerships with the Qatar remains a priority. The city is set to introduce innovative tourism formats, immersive cultural experiences, and expanded guided tours to attract more visitors from the Qatar and beyond. In Moscow, there’s an international restaurant guide called GreatList.com, now available in English and Arabic. It operates in Doha, Dubai, and many other countries worldwide. The guide showcases over 100 restaurants, organized for any occasion. Furthermore, the founder, Alexander Sysoev, has announced plans to introduce a loyalty program specifically for tourists from Qatar.Tourists from Qatar increasingly view Moscow as a new and unique destination offering high-end experiences, including luxury shopping and five-star accommodations. Qatar travelers represent a key segment of Moscow’s growing tourism industry. For more information, please visit: For media inquiries, please contact: presstourism@mos.ru The Moscow City Tourism Committee
Premier Padel supports Match for Hope with charity tournament on National Sport Day
Reading Time: < 1 minuteDOHA – 12 February 2025 – As part of Qatar’s National Sport Day celebrations, Premier Padel proudly supported the Match for Hope initiative by hosting a special charity tournament at its stunning courts at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Lusail. The event brought together some of the world’s most influential content creators, blending sports and entertainment to drive awareness and raise funds for Education Above All Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing quality education for marginalized communities worldwide. The star-studded tournament featured renowned figures and content creators including Mo Farah, Sharky, Oussifooty, David Vujanic, Futcrunch, Thogden, Thogdad, Manny Brown, Eman sv2, Taiyo Kimura, Triplefqatar, Bashar Arabi, Abood. Participants engaged in friendly competition, collaborated on exclusive content, and for some, experienced the excitement of playing padel for the first time. Beyond its charitable impact, this latest event further demonstrates Premier Padel’s ongoing commitment to growing the sport globally by introducing it to new audiences through high-profile events and experiences as demonstrated by the Premier Padel Legends tournament in November which saw sporting icons compete in Doha during the Qatar Grand Prix. Looking ahead, the Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour returns to Doha from April 14-19 for the prestigious Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel, welcoming the world’s best players to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
