All-New Patrol marks a bold design evolution for Nissan SUV line up in the Middle East
Reading Time: 4 minutesIconic SUV ushers in a new era of the brand’s design language and premium innovation tailored for the region Doha, Qatar (January 14th, 2025) – Unveiling a bold, new chapter for the brand in the Middle East, the recently launched all-new Nissan Patrol has solidified its position as a design benchmark for the region and beyond. As the first of five all-new SUVs to be introduced in the region by Fiscal Year 2026 under The Arc, Nissan’s global business plan, the Patrol exemplifies Nissan’s bold approach to design innovation, seamlessly blending its legendary legacy of over 70-years with modern sophistication. More than an evolution, the all-new Patrol introduces a new era of SUV design for Nissan, with a distinctive silhouette that balances rugged capability with premium refinement. Bringing together timeless heritage and cutting-edge aesthetics, the all-new Patrol embodies the perfect balance of Nissan’s global design philosophy of “Bold Presence” and “Solid Dignity”. Inspired by extensive research across key global regions, including the Middle East, Nissan’s designers created the all-new Patrol to express a dynamic duality. With bold sculpted lines and balanced proportions, the Patrol exudes a powerful stance while refined details elevate its premium appeal. Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan, INFINITI, commented: “The all-new Nissan Patrol is a bold statement of Nissan’s refreshed design language and an embodiment of our vision for SUVs in the Middle East. For generations, the Patrol has been an integral part of the region; and with this latest model, we’ve drawn inspiration from its iconic design to create a vehicle that upholds its legendary status. A pioneer of Nissan design language, the all-new Patrol reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of our customers while setting a new standard for premium SUV.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “The all-new Nissan Patrol has been exceptionally well-received in Qatar. Its bold, striking design and premium features truly resonate with our customers. With enhancements like the distinctive V-motion grille, modern lighting elements, and a refined interior, the all-new Patrol sets a new standard for SUVs in the region. It embodies both power and luxury, perfectly aligning with Qatar’s growing demand for innovative and sophisticated vehicles. We are proud to offer this new chapter of the Patrol, a vehicle that combines Nissan’s legendary heritage with modern design to meet the expectations of today’s discerning drivers.” Upfront, the Patrol proudly displays its “Bold Presence” design philosophy, now enhanced by a wider, more pronounced V-motion grille that pays homage to the second-generation Patrol with its integrated horizontal bar. This commanding feature is paired with sharply sculpted lines and modern lighting elements, including the distinctive new “double-C” lamp design, which together forge a futuristic yet unmistakably Patrol exterior. The full-width rear light bar further accentuates this evolution, maintaining the vehicle’s sense of power and prestige. The side profile of the Patrol is marked by a gently sloping shoulder line that stretches from front to rear, projecting a blend of prestige and agility. This design is accentuated by a rising window line between the C- and D-Pillars, with blacked-out pillars that create a floating roof effect. The iconic Patrol emblem adorns the D-Pillar, enhancing the vehicle’s identity. Stylish 22-inch alloy wheels underline the SUV’s bold stance, while sleek LED accents modernize the overall design, achieving the perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality. Inside, the Patrol’s premium cabin offers a glimpse into Nissan’s commitment to “Solid Dignity”. Emphasizing craftsmanship and user-centric innovation, twin displays dominate the console, while soft materials and carefully integrated components maintain an elegant, clean design. In keeping with the Japanese concept of Ma (Mastery of Space), each seating row is crafted with equal attention to detail. Enhanced roominess and the premium quilted leather with precise stitching inspired by traditional Kumiko patterns, offer passengers a premium experience. Meanwhile, unique touches including the “Since 1951” badge on the center console honor the Patrol’s enduring legacy. Practicality meets elegance in every detail, from Damping Acoustic glass that ensures a tranquil cabin, to a wireless phone charging mat textured to resemble sand dunes, echoing the Patrol’s natural setting. With increased cargo capacity and thoughtfully engineered seating, including first and second-row seats equipped with NASA-inspired spinal support technology, the all-new Patrol is designed to elevate every journey, whether within city limits or beyond. The all-new Nissan Patrol, with its unmatched combination of powerful design and premium comfort, is an SUV built to inspire and empower drivers across the region. It offers an array of seven striking exterior colours, each developed to enhance its dynamic appearance. The addition of four vibrant two-tone options to the exterior color palette offers increased personalization, enabling drivers to express their unique style while evoking a sense of authority and elegance. The all-new Nissan Patrol is currently available at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., showrooms – the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar – conveniently located across Qatar. For more information, visit the showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.
Eight Films Supported by Doha Film Institute Selected for 75th Berlin International Film Festival
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar; January 22, 2025: Doha Film Institute continues to makes impact globally with eight films supported through its Grants programme selected to the 75th edition of the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) to be held from February 13 to 23. The films have been chosen to the Competition section as well as Critics’ Week, Forum Expanded and Generation Kplus, as well as in Panorama. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute, said: “The selection of these films at the Berlin Film Festival is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity of young filmmakers from across the world, that stand out for their diversity of themes and their innovative approach to storytelling. It reflects our commitment to supporting filmmakers who are pushing boundaries and telling compelling stories that resonate globally. At Doha Film Institute, we believe in the power of cinema to bridge cultures and inspire change, and this achievement reaffirms our mission to elevate voices that deserve to be heard.” The DFI-supported films at Berlinale 2025 include Yunan (Palestine, Germany, Canada, Italy, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Ameer Fakher Eldin screens in the Competition section, the centrepiece of the festival that presents about 20 selections annually. The film is about Munir, a renowned Arab author exiled in Germany, who is burdened by psychological torment and plagued by hauntingly vivid dreams. Desperate and despondent, he embarks on a journey to a remote island, where he encounters Valeska, a wise elderly woman, and her steadfast son, Karl. Their presence unexpectedly radiates hope and redemption. Ancestral Visions of the Future (Lesotho, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Lemohang Jeremiah Mosese screens in the Berlinale Special segment, is a poetic allegory of the filmmaker’s childhood, an ode to cinema and an inner nod to his mother. Through fragmented narratives and mythic imagery, Mosese crafts a haunting reflection on dislocation and belonging. Screening in the Perspectives programme is Mohamed Rashad’s The Settlement (Egypt, France, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) follows Hossam who gives up his thuggish lifestyle to be able to provide for his sick mother and brother Maro after the death of his father. Hossam goes to work at the same factory as his father and begins to doubt whether his death was accidental. Featuring in the Forum Expanded is My Armenian Phantoms (Armenia, France, Qatar) by Tamara Stepanyan, is a tribute to the director’s father, Vigen Stepanyan, who was a beloved theatre and film actor in Armenia. Screening in Generation Kplus, a competition programme that screens state-of-the-art international cinema, is The Botanist (China, Qatar) by Jing Yi, about a lonely Kazakh boy named Arsin, in the valley villages of the northern border of Xinjiang, who is obsessed with plants. Through his fascination with the plant world, he recounts memories of his nomadic family in contemporary times. The two films in the Panorama section include: Yalla Parkour! (Palestine, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Areeb Zuaiter is about Ahmed, who aspires to become an international Parkour champion despite the blockade that troubles Gaza and Khartoum (Sudan, UK, Germany, Qatar) by Anas Saeed, Rawia Alhag, Ibrahim Snoopy, Timeea Mohamed Ahmed and Phil Cox, in which four Sudanese filmmakers mix observational documentary and innovative graphics, archives and animation to capture the lives of four real characters, all living and surviving in the war-torn metropolis of Khartoum. Selected to the Critics’ Week is East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) by Hala Elkoussi is a satire on the inner workings of an ailing autocracy and its inherent vulnerability to youth’s unchained vision of a better world.
Qatar Tourism prepares to host the 21st edition of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition
Reading Time: 3 minutesHeld under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qatar Tourism is set to host the return of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), taking place from January 30th to February 5th 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). Now in its 21st year, DJWE has firmly established itself as Qatar’s premier event for luxury jewellery and watches, providing a platform that showcases exceptional craftsmanship and artistry from global and local designers. The week-long exhibition will feature exquisite collections, statement pieces, and innovative designs from Al Fardan Jewellery, Al Majed Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Amiri Gems, Fifty-One East, Al Muftah Jewellery, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Arts and Gems. In addition, the event will host a diverse range of international brands and emerging Qatari designers, continuing its tradition of blending heritage with innovation. The exhibition will also see the return of three highly anticipated pavilions: the Qatari, Turkish, and Indian pavilions, each showcasing unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage of each country. Commenting on this year’s exhibition, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition is one of Qatar Tourism’s flagship events, exemplifying our commitment to hosting world-class MICE events and reinforcing our global position as a leading hub for luxury experiences. In addition to showcasing the latest trends from international jewellery and watch brands, DJWE offers a platform for Qatari designers, showcasing their exceptional talent and craftsmanship.” He added, “As we continue to work towards the goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030, events such as DJWE reflect our dedication to economic diversification, supporting local talent, and offering unique experiences to visitors from around the world. The 21st edition will bring together more than 500 brands from 30 countries, creating a unique opportunity for cultural and business exchange.” DJWE has long been established as a premier B2B and B2C jewellery and watches exhibition in the region. Owned by Qatar Tourism and sponsored by Visit Qatar, this year’s edition will bring together industry leaders, renowned brands, and distinguished clients from across the region, offering visitors the unique opportunity to explore an extraordinary array of collections, engage directly with industry experts, and participate in exclusive networking sessions. As a vital contributor to the nation’s event calendar and a driver of cultural exchange and economic growth, DJWE continues to solidify its reputation each year as a platform for business growth and creative collaboration. For more information on DJWE 2025, please visit www.djwe.com To explore the latest events on Qatar’s calendar, visit www.visitqatar.com.
Sidra Medicine Celebrates Seven Years of Advancing Medical Education in Qatar
Reading Time: 3 minutesOver 400 trainees graduate from pediatric residency and fellowship programs 20 January 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has achieved remarkable milestones in medical education over the past seven years since its opening in 2018. From offering pioneering residency and fellowship programs that empower medical trainees to hosting globally recognized conferences, Sidra Medicine has transformed Qatar’s healthcare landscape and positioned itself as a reputable institution for medical expertise. Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Acting Chief Medical Officer and Chair of Medical Education at Sidra Medicine said: “When Sidra Medicine’s Medical Education pillar was established, our mission was to be ranked among the top academic medical centers in the world. I am pleased to see how far we have come on this journey and the big strides we have taken to develop the next generation of healthcare and research professionals. Our world-class events have positioned Qatar as a premier hub in the region for advancing medicine and research, attracting experts and delegates from around the world. As a proud Qatari institution, we are dedicated to empowering local and regional talent while maintaining a global outlook.” The Medical Education Department at Sidra Medicine vision is to set the highest standards of medical education and continuous professional development opportunities for healthcare professionals and offer medical trainees an exceptional educational experience to create safe and competent future doctors specialized in children’s and women’s health. “Each year Sidra Medicine offers thousands of education sessions with well over 10,000 credit hours. Our wide variety of offerings include workshops, medical simulations, seminars, symposia, grand rounds, conferences, journal clubs, and blended online learning modules. By transferring knowledge and advancing healthcare education, we are not only shaping the future of medicine but also fulfilling our mission to serve the unique needs of the Arab population,” continued Prof. Janahi. Sidra Medicine supports medical students’ clerkships and placements in pediatric and women’s healthcare, serving as a specialist teaching hospital for students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar and Qatar University Medical College as well as research students from Hamad Bin Khalifa University. Since 2018, over 1,000 medical students completed their clerkship programs at Sidra Medicine, additionally, over 400 residents and fellows have graduated from Sidra Medicine’s pediatric residency and fellowship programs, which are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education – International (ACGMEI). The hospital’s medical education achievements also include institutional accreditation from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, enabling it to accredit residency training programs across multiple specialties. These efforts have elevated Sidra Medicine’s standing as a premier academic and healthcare institution. Its impact is further evidenced by its partnerships with leading institutions such as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Sidra Medicine also offers innovative programs like the Introduction to Genomics (InGen) workshops, which in 2024 provided over 400 high school students with hands-on research experience. Sidra Medicine has established itself as a hub for international medical and research conferences and workshops, bringing globally renowned events to Qatar. In the past ten years, Sidra Medicine has hosted many events and conferences that have collectively drawn over 20,000 healthcare professionals and researchers. Notably, these gatherings have welcomed over 1,000 international participants from more than 23 countries, highlighting Sidra Medicine’s role in fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange All its conferences and workshops offer Continuous Medical Education (CME) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points which are accredited by the Department of Healthcare Professionals. In 2024, Sidra Medicine hosted the 31st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Middle East Fertility Society (MEFS), the largest organization in the region dedicated to advancing fertility care. In 2019, it proudly hosted the 6th World Congress of the World Federation of Associations of Pediatric Surgeons (WOFAPS), attracting over 800 surgeons from more than 80 countries. This landmark event, held for the first time in the Middle East, underscored Qatar’s emergence as a premier destination for advancing pediatric surgical care. Its annual conferences, such as the Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics Summit (PMFG) and the Pediatric Neuroscience Conference (PNC) have become signature events, attracting participants from across the Middle East and beyond. Sidra Medicine’s upcoming Gulf Pediatric Critical Care Conference (GPCCC) from 23 to 26 January is a testament to its ongoing dedication to providing access to cutting-edge education and medical education, as it is the first of its kind to be held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Online slots are still available. Register virtually here. For additional information about Medical Education at Sidra Medicine, please visit: https://www.sidra.org/education/medical-education
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.
VCUarts Qatar Holds Comics Retreat
Reading Time: 4 minutesFrom ideation and storyboarding to scriptwriting and visualization, QF partner university’s three-day workshop was a huge success. Doha, Qatar: A football coach, a psychologist, a musician and an aspiring journalist – in addition to the expected attendee profile of graphic designers and artists, these were just some of the other professionals who participated in the first Comics Retreat to be hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university, recently. The diversity of backgrounds and professions of the participants reminded one of the evergreen and universal appeal of comic books – even in a digital landscape dominated by complex animation, special effects, and computer-generated imagery. The three-day retreat was organized by the Comics Lab, a research lab under the Institute for Creative Research at VCUarts Qatar, led by Michael Wirtz, Head of Research and Library Technology, and Leland Hill, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design, at VCUarts Qatar. The retreat was led by Dr. S J Sindu (Sinduja Sathiyaseelan), Assistant Professor of Creative Writing, and Dr. Geoff Bouvier, Instructor, both from the Department of English at VCU, Richmond. Explaining the inspiration behind the lab, and the retreat, Wirtz said, “Part of the Comics Lab’s mission is to facilitate the production of comic and sequential art featuring voices and narratives of Qatar and the people who live here. Generally, when narratives of this region are depicted in comics, they are either stereotypical of how Western cultures view the people who live here, or they feature orientalist tropes that do not reflect the voices of the people who live here. Not only do we want to collect the authentic graphic narratives being produced in the region, or by people from the region, we want to encourage the creative community to create their own narratives.” He continued, “For this retreat, we chose the theme of “Third Culture Kids” due to the ubiquity of that experience in Qatar. Most people who live in Qatar have some experience with living or working in a culture that is different from that of their “home” or family’s culture. How people negotiate that experience can generate authentic narratives that can be shared through comic and sequential art.” Wirtz observed that the success of the first iteration of the retreat demonstrates that many people believe that comics may be a viable way of communicating those stories. He said, “Comics aren’t just stories about superheroes in tights and masks. They can be a powerful medium to depict complex characters and stories.” He also noted how as a format, comics may forge a stronger connection between the story, the characters and the readers. He said, “Unlike certain types of media where the narrative is fed to the reader, in reading a comic, the reader still has to participate in generating the narrative. For instance, the panel structure – the frames that contain the images – of a comic is similar to that of a film. However, unlike a film, the reader controls how quickly that narrative is consumed. One of the participants, Gilson de Souza, a football coach at Aspire Academy, said he always enjoyed reading comics and fiction both as a child and an adult. He said, “At a certain point in my life, I started playing Dungeons and Dunes and other role-playing games which involved creating worlds, characters and stories. This sparked my love for creative writing, and I began to write. “Since childhood, I’ve had two sides: a ‘geek’ side that loved stories, and an athletic side, influenced by my dad steering me more towards sports. This led me to my current career as a football coach. However, I never considered my creative side as something that could develop into a profession or even a hobby. Hence this journey of rediscovering this part of myself through this comic retreat has been deeply important to me as a person.” During the workshop, participants had ample opportunities to work both individually and in groups and share feedback on work produced during the retreat. Anna Luisa Almeida, a Brazilian psychologist who attended the workshop, said she found the topics and sessions to be highly interactive and engaging. She said, “The workshop kicked off with a discussion of the main theme, which was ‘Third Culture Kids’. I feel the topic was excellent, because it was something most of us could relate to, given the large number of expats in Qatar. Our final comics focused on this theme, and it was essential for everyone to share ideas.” She added, “In our introduction to script writing for comic books, I realized it was quite different from other forms of scripts. Our instructors shared tips and examples that we could refer to. For instance, Sindu, one of the retreat instructors, advised me to refer to Neil Gaiman’s scripts for ‘Sandman’. We also learned about the technical terms used in the design of comic spreads, the importance of the kind of media in which your comic will be read – paper or digital – and explored graphic poems.” In 2021, the VCUarts Qatar Art and Design Library, the library of the Qatar campus of Virginia Commonwealth University, in Richmond, decided to establish a dedicated Comics Lab to foster further exploration within the medium – particularly in the creation, consumption and themes of comic books in the region. Although the Lab is currently building its resources to meet the research and educational needs of the school, it has also embarked on a second phase of its conception – one of coordinating the dissemination of comic and sequential art from the region.
Key events this week: Ras Abrouq activation extended until February 15, and Sealine Season to feature Adani Show
Reading Time: 3 minutesRas Abrouq has become one of this winter season’s most visited attractions, drawing 38,000 visitors since its opening. Reflecting the overwhelming demand, Ras Abrouq’s duration has been extended until February 15th, allowing more residents and visitors to enjoy its exceptional offerings. Ras Abrouq continues to captivate guests with hot-air balloon experiences, archery sessions, camel parades, children’s workshops, and engaging roaming acts. Visitors can look forward to spectacular drone shows on January 16th and 17th, scheduled at 19:30 and 20:30. 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. Adani Show, featuring the traditional Yemeni music performance will take place on January 17th, at 21:00 to 23:00, followed by a fireworks display. Doors will re-open for the public at 19:00. Tickets cost 50 QAR and will be available online, to purchase tickets at https://doha.platinumlist.net/ar/event-tickets/sealine Additionally, the Qatar Kite Festival at Sealine will also take place from January 16th till 18th from 12:00 till 17:30, offering a vibrant showcase of colorful kites and aerial artistry. This Week in Qatar 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 until February 1. Abida Parveen Live in Qatar will take place at Qatar Museums January 16th, showcasing the soulful voice of the globally acclaimed Sufi singer. A captivating evening awaits music lovers as they immerse themselves in her enchanting performance. Doha Marathon by Ooredoo is taking place on January 17th at Hotel Park in Doha. With categories for all skill levels, the event promotes fitness and community spirit. Qatar Custom Show is running from January 14th to 18th, offering car enthusiasts a glimpse of extraordinary custom vehicles and innovations in automotive design. The UAE Qatar Super Cup will be held from January 16th to 19th, bringing a competitive edge to football fans and sports enthusiasts alike. The Qatar Kite Festival will be held at various locations which include Old Doha Port, Sealine Season Dunes and Sheraton Hotel Park from January 19th to 25th, featuring vibrant kite displays and interactive activities for families. The Doha Oasis Padel Tournament is scheduled from January 16th to 18th, offering exciting matches in this rapidly growing sport and attracting players and fans from across the region. Shop Qatar 2025, running until February 1st, offers unbeatable discounts, exciting retail experiences, and the chance to win grand prizes, including luxury cars. The second Raffle draw will take place at Old Doha Port at 20:00. Daily entertainment across participating malls enhances 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.
Zeekr at CES 2025: Unveils Industry-leading Technology, Co-Creation Strategy and a Global Energy Solution
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – 15 January 2025: Blue Lake Motors, a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, proudly announces ZEEKR’s dynamic presence at CES 2025, where the brand showcased its cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking approach to the electric vehicle industry. ZEEKR demonstrated its commitment to continuous innovation through close collaboration with customers and partners, reinforcing its dedication to delivering world-class solutions. The brand also outlined its strategic plans for global expansion, positioning itself as a key player in the rapidly evolving electric mobility market. Christopher Preston, Executive Director, Blue Lake Motors, commented on the event by saying: “Zeekr’s innovative approach to combining hardware and software engineering is paving the way for safer, more comfortable, and independent driving experiences. As we expand in the Qatari market, we’re excited about how Zeekr’s advanced technologies can reshape luxury and sustainability in the region. We’re eager to bring these groundbreaking solutions to our customers, in line with Qatar’s vision for smart and eco-friendly transportation.” Zeekr believes both hardware and software engineering are crucial to offer safe and comfortable autonomous driving journeys. At booth #5460, West Hall, of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Zeekr is showing its all-new self-designed intelligent driving domain controller, the first for an OEM that integrates the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor system-on-a-chip(SoC) running on the safety-certified DriveOS. The soon-to-be-mass-produced domain controller powered by NVIDIA’s accelerated compute, will roll out in a new model coming 2025, that will be able to handle multiple intelligent driving scenarios and parking capabilities. In addition, Zeekr is announcing that it will extend its partnership with Qualcomm Technologies Inc to bring more immersive infotainment experience to global customers. Featuring the updated, more powerful Qualcomm system-on-chip (SoC), Zeekr models provide users with a richer and smarter cockpit experience at a high-efficiency level. Zeekr RT, some of which are already undergoing real-world road testing, will be the world-first mass-produced purpose-built vehicle for autonomous mobility. Zeekr will begin delivering mass-produced Zeekr RTs to Waymo for further testing this year, in preparation for a future public robotaxi launch. Currently Zeekr vehicles are equipped with an 800V ultra-fast charging e-powertain and Zeekr is the largest ultra-fast charging network operator, with over 800 ultra-fast charging stations in China. To build an all-round energy service ecosystem, Zeekr is unveiling its global fast-charging network strategy to deploy thousands of Zeekr-branded charging piles in key international markets, starting from and particularly in Thailand and Australia. On display at CES is the Zeekr 001 FR, a shooting brake, which offers the best possible balance of luxury, comfort, and ultra-performance. The Zeekr 009 Grand, the four-seater version of the electric Zeekr 009 MPV, which presents a luxurious, secluded, quiet, comfortable and safe oasis on road. The Zeekr MIX, a family five-seater SUV, combines a capsule-style exterior and innovative packaging to maximize in-cabin space. For more information or enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us at 8000505.
Visit Qatar hosts first Arabia Luxury Travel Show in Doha
Reading Time: 2 minutesVisit Qatar hosted the Arabia Luxury Travel Show for the first time in Doha, which ran from January 12 to 15. Designed to strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading luxury destination in the Middle East, the event welcomed over 160 luxury tour operators and (MICE) Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions agents from key markets, including Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and the Baltic States. More than 50 distinguished hotels, destination management companies, and tourism boards from across the region including Qatar, the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Turkey and the Indian Ocean participated in the event. Together, they highlighted the Middle East’s world-class luxury offerings, further solidifying the region as a hub for premium tourism. The four-day event featured a comprehensive agenda, at the event’s Host Hotel, the Ritz Carlton – Doha, including two days of one-on-one B2B meetings to facilitate important business engagements. The last two days were dedicated to networking events between buyers and exhibitors. Commenting on the success of the event, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Qatar, said: “The Arabia Luxury Travel Show has provided Visit Qatar a platform to showcase Qatar’s unique luxury offerings to key international markets. By engaging directly with influential buyers and travel professionals, we continue to position Qatar as a leading destination for discerning travellers. This event aligns with our strategic vision to expand Qatar’s footprint in the global luxury tourism sector while strengthening our presence in key markets.” The 2025 Arabia Luxury Travel Show covered key themes including luxury travel, as well as Doha’s appeal as a family-friendly destination. The successful hosting of this event underlines Visit Qatar’s commitment to advance the country’s visibility as a global luxury hub, further solidifying the objectives of the Qatar Tourism Strategy. The participants had the opportunity to explore Qatar, visiting its vibrant souqs, world-class museums, immaculate desert, immersing themselves in the rich culture, and marveling at the stunning skyline.
High Efficiency, Powerful Performance, All-Scenario Capability, Enhanced Safety EXEED REEV Equipped with Multiple Leading Technologies
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – January 13th, 2025. Silver Lake Motors – a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, recently introduced EXEED’s groundbreaking REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) technology at a launch event in Beijing, unveiling the premium EXLANTIX series of new energy vehicles. The event highlighted EXEED’s technological leadership, showcasing the REEV system’s combination of high performance and energy efficiency. The REEV technology achieves a thermal efficiency exceeding 44.5% and an impressive oil-to-electricity conversion rate of 3.7 kWh/L, setting a new benchmark for the global automotive sector. Mrs. Ping Ding, EXEED Brand Manager at Silver Lake Motors, underscored the significance of this launch for the Qatari market: “With EXEED’s innovative REEV technology, we are proud to offer Qatari customers a cutting-edge combination of performance, efficiency, and luxury. As we prepare to launch the EXLANTIX series in Qatar soon, this marks an exciting chapter in EXEED’s journey to establish a strong presence in the region, bringing sustainable automotive innovation to the local market.” Earlier in May 2024, the two-wheel-drive variant of the ET REEV completed an extraordinary range endurance test, covering 2141.5 kilometers with a full fuel tank and a fully charged battery. This achievement also included the first successful high-altitude drop collision test from 31.9 meters in the industry. Additionally, automotive media representatives from Eastern Europe and the Middle East tested the ET REEV four-wheel-drive variant, highlighting its remarkable acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The EXEED REEV system features an innovative design, integrating a generator and a drive motor. Powered by a fifth-generation high-performance range-extender engine, the system achieves a thermal efficiency of over 44.5%, while the core components maintain transmission efficiencies exceeding 98.5%. This enables the vehicle to achieve an exceptional fuel-to-electric conversion rate of 3.7 kWh per liter of fuel. The REEV technology is also paired with a range-extending battery that supports rapid charging, reaching 20% to 80% in just 17.5 minutes, addressing range anxiety and optimizing user experience. The EXEED REEV system delivers a total output power of 345 kW and peak torque of 7,400 Nm, ensuring a dynamic driving experience. The system’s combination of high efficiency and power ensures stable performance in various driving conditions. The ET REEV four-wheel-drive variant, for example, achieves 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds when fully charged, providing an experience akin to that of pure electric vehicles. An intelligent all-scene four-wheel-drive system enhances the driving experience further. It incorporates advanced technologies like IAS intelligent air suspension and CDC damping, providing precise adjustments to suspension damping for optimal stability and comfort. The intelligent torque vectoring control allows for dynamic front-to-rear axle torque distribution, ensuring efficient power utilization across all driving conditions. Additionally, the system offers seven distinct driving modes, including settings for sand and snow, improving performance in challenging environments. Renowned Qatari automotive Key Opinion Leader (KOL), Jaber Al Malki, praised the vehicle’s performance following his test drive, stating, “The vehicle delivers a perfect blend of speed and passion in the driving experience. The luxurious interior and meticulous craftsmanship further enhance the overall impression, with every detail underscoring a dedicated pursuit of quality.” Safety remains a top priority for EXEED, with the brand introducing a six-dimensional electric safety system, the first of its kind in the industry. The Kunpeng battery, integral to the REEV system, has undergone rigorous reliability testing, including 100,000 kilometers of road testing, 39 hours of vibration testing, and 48 hours of water immersion. These tests confirm its durability and safety. The vehicle body also incorporates 88% high-strength steel and aluminum, improving rigidity and crash resistance to meet global five-star safety standards. The EXLANTIX high-end new energy series, featuring the REEV technology, will be launched in several international markets, including Eastern Europe, the UAE, and Norway, in the first half of next year. This rollout marks a strategic expansion for EXEED, positioning the brand as a world-class luxury automotive leader. As EXEED continues its international expansion, REEV technology will soon be launched in Qatar, offering local consumers a chance to experience cutting-edge performance and energy efficiency in the luxury electric vehicle sector. Customers can explore the EXEED lineup by visiting the flagship showroom in West Walk Doha, a symbol of sophistication and elegance. For more information or to arrange your test drive, stop by the EXEED showroom or call 800 1115.
