Place Vendôme & Qatar Tourism Honoured for Innovative Collaboration
Doha, Qatar – January 11th, 2025: Having recently hosted the opening ceremony for Shop Qatar 2025, Place Vendôme is pleased to have presented H.E. Mr Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, with an award commemorating its innovative collaboration with Qatar Tourism during last year’s event. Place Vendôme’s collaboration with Qatar Tourism during Shop Qatar 2024 clinched the coveted ‘Gold award’ in the Marketing Excellence category at the prestigious Middle East Council of Shopping Centres & Retailers (MECS+R) Awards. This award recognizes the efforts of both Qatar Tourism and Place Vendôme to enhance Qatar’s reputation as a leading global luxury retail destination. The MECS+R Awards are widely recognized as the gold standard for excellence in the sector, celebrating innovation, creativity, and outstanding achievements in retail, marketing excellence, and property development. Shane Eldstrom, CEO of United Developers, Owners of Place Vendôme, said: “The team at Place Vendôme is proud to have played a role showcasing the Shop Qatar initiative for its past two editions. We have worked tirelessly to bring some of the best brands and experiences from throughout the region and the world to Place Vendôme and are grateful for the support of Qatar Tourism in bringing our destination to new audiences”. This year’s edition of Shop Qatar, the nation’s largest shopping and entertainment festival, launched on January 1 with an elegant opening ceremony at Place Vendôme, featuring a performance by Lebanese singer Abeer Nheme, alongside colourful parades, family activities and a stunning fireworks display. Qatar’s retail sector has been experiencing a boom, with the market expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% in the coming years. The country’s high GDP per capita, coupled with a population that values quality and innovation, has created a fertile ground for retail excellence. Place Vendôme’s success at the MECS+R Awards reflects this thriving environment and the mall’s ability to capture the essence of Qatar’s dynamic retail landscape. Since its opening in April 2022, Place Vendôme has rapidly established itself as a cornerstone of Qatar’s retail and lifestyle scene. The mall’s unique blend of luxury brands, diverse dining options, and state-of-the-art entertainment facilities has made it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. This latest recognition at the MECS+R Awards adds to Place Vendôme’s growing list of accolades, which include the UNESCO Prix Versailles for World’s Most Beautiful Shopping Mall in 2023; the respected ‘Premier Shopping Mall Experience’ at the Qatar Tourism Awards; Qatar Museums’ Bronze Key; RLI MENA ‘Shopping Center – New Build’ Award; as well as, ‘Best Mall Award’ and ‘Highest Participation Award’ by Shop Qatar. Place Vendôme’s ongoing efforts are aligned with the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030, that aims to drive economic, social and cultural development in the country. By enhancing Qatar’s appeal as a global retail and tourism destination, Place Vendôme contributes to the diversification of the national economy, promotes cultural exchange, and fosters sustainable growth. The mall’s dedication to this vision reflects its commitment to making a meaningful impact on the country’s economic prosperity, social cohesion, and heritage preservation. These MECS+R Awards not only celebrate Place Vendôme’s achievements but also highlight Qatar’s growing influence in the regional and global retail landscape. For more information about Place Vendôme, please visit www.placevendomeqatar.com
Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2025
Press ConferenceThursday, 9 January 2025 Key Highlights of the ConferenceImportance of the Marathon• A unique sports event aiming to promote health and fitness.• Reflects Ooredoo’s dedication to supporting sports and community. Partnership with Al Kass Channel• Official Broadcaster: Al Kass Channel announced as the official broadcaster of the Doha Marathon.• Live Broadcast: Enhances local and global audience reach. General Information about the 2025 MarathonInclusive and Innovative Edition:• Open to all age groups and abilities, featuring full marathons to kids’ races.• Kids’ race to be held on 16 January, a day before the marathon. • Gold Label Accreditation:• Achieved the Gold Label from World Athletics for the second consecutive time. • Inclusivity for Individuals with Disabilities:• Encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in races up to 21 km, with registration being free. Community Goals• Supporting Charities:• A portion of registration fees will go to charity, a tradition since the marathon’s start. • Encouraging Qatari Participation:• As part of Ooredoo’s dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle among Qatari runners, special cash prizes will be awarded to participants in the Al Adaam category. Key Statistics• Participant Numbers:• Over 15,000 runners from 140 nationalities.• 1,300 international runners. • Prizes:• Total prize pool of approximately QR 1 million.• Two Toyota cars will be raffled for marathon finishers. Marathon Route and Facilities• Carefully Selected Route:• Ensures a safe and smooth environment for all participants. • Free Parking:• Free parking near the race venue for participants and spectators. Events and Activities at the Marathon Village• Marathon Village Opening:• Located at Sheraton Park from 14 to 16 January.• Includes entertainment activities, live performances, and diverse food offerings. • Kids’ Race:• Dedicated race for children under 12 on 16 January. Summary of Events at the Marathon Village:• Day 1 (14 January 2025):• DJ Tarek’s energetic musical performance.• Jess Trio Band’s harmonious music. • Day 2 (15 January 2025):• DJ Tarek returns.• M&M duo blends music with elegance in their show. • Day 3 (16 January 2025):• Children’s entertainment show with acrobatics and engaging performances.• Science exhibition featuring interactive experiments and exciting demonstrations. • 14, 16, 17 January 2025:• White Parade adds joy with dynamic moves and lively beats.• The Kids’ Race Parade with clowns, costumed characters, and stilt walkers fills the streets with joy and excitement. New Features for 2025• Innovative Technology:o AI-generated participant videos and photos.o Instant digital participation certificates. • Enhanced Photography Services:o Introducing “Sportograf” for the first time to capture participants’ moments. About Sportograf:• A global platform specialising in sports event photography, known for high-quality documentation of marathons, triathlons, and more.Benefits of the Sportograf Service Safety Measures• Comprehensive Safety Plan:• A secure and well-defined route with integrated support services.• Medical drone in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation.• Dedicated safety monitoring team. Safety Details: Marathon Kit Distribution• Details:• Distributed at Sheraton Park from 14 to 16 January, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM.• Kits include a race T-shirt, medal, and timing chip. Sponsors and Partners• Supporting Partners: Ministry of Interior, Qatar Athletics Federation, and Hayya Platform.• Platinum Sponsors: Al Abdulghani Motors, Visir Qatar, Katara Hospitality, and New Balance.• Gold Sponsors: Doha Bank and Korean Medical Center.• Silver Sponsors: Rayyan Water, Qommunication, Qatar Insurance Company, Elan Group, and Rafeeq.• Other Supporters: Ministry of Defence and Ashghal Public Works Authority.
Jake Peacock Vs. Shinji Suzuki Muay Thai Clash Added To ONE 171: Qatar On February 20
8 January 2025 – Doha, Qatar: ONE Championship, the world’s largest martial arts organization, today announced that another marquee bout has been added to ONE 171: Qatar, presented by Visit Qatar, scheduled for Lusail Sports Arena on Thursday, February 20. English-Canadian star Jake Peacock will face Japanese veteran Shinji Suzuki in a three-round bantamweight Muay Thai contest. Fans interested in purchasing tickets can visit here. ONE 171: Qatar will also feature two massive World Title showdowns. ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Haggerty will defend his gold against #1-ranked contender Wei Rui, while ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio will face interim titleholder Jarred Brooks for the third time in a World Title unification bout. More blockbuster matchups for ONE 171: Qatar will be announced at a later date. ONE Championship would like to thank official ONE 171 presenting partner Visit Qatar, official media partner Media City Qatar, official telecom partner Ooredoo, and official venue partner Lusail Sports Arena, as well as global energy drink partner Monster Energy and global blockchain partner Sui. ONE 171: QatarLusail Sports ArenaThursday, February 20, 2025 ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Championship(C) Jonathan Haggerty vs. (1) Wei Rui ONE Strawweight MMA World Championship(C) Joshua Pacio vs. (IC) Jarred Brooks Welterweight MMARoberto Soldic vs. Dagi Arslanaliev Bantamweight MMABibiano Fernandes vs. Kevin Belingon Featherweight MMA(3) Shamil Gasanov vs. (4) Martin Nguyen Atomweight MMA(5) Ayaka Miura vs. Ritu Phogat Bantamweight Muay ThaiJake Peacock vs. Shinji Suzuki About ONE Championship™ONE is the world’s largest martial arts organization, ranking among the world’s top-five sports properties for viewership and engagement with a cumulative reach of over 400 million fans, according to Nielsen. ONE produces and distributes world-class events across more than 190 countries, featuring martial artists and World Champions from over 80 nations and all styles of martial arts including MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and more. ONE can be viewed on many of the largest global free-to-air and digital broadcasters, including Prime Video, Sky Sports, Globo, beIN SPORTS, Channel 7 HD, Seven Network, SuperSport, DAZN, La Liga TV, Claro Sports, Star Sports, iQIYI, One Sports, U-NEXT, Coupang, NET TV, Vidio, Mediapro, Skynet, Mediacorp, Match TV, and more. About Visit QatarVisit Qatar is the main arm of Qatar Tourism, the regulatory body of the tourism sector in Qatar. Visit Qatar’s mission is to promote and expand tourism in Qatar by cultivating its rich culture, developing thrilling attractions, enhancing Qatar’s calendar, becoming the leading MICE destination in the region, diversifying events and luxury experiences. Visit Qatar is rooted in Service Excellence, boosting the entire tourism value chain, and increasing local and international visitor demand in Qatar. Through Visit Qatar’s network of international offices in priority markets, cutting-edge digital platforms, and marketing campaigns, Visit Qatar is expanding Qatar’s presence globally and enhancing the tourism sector.
Nissan launches innovative manufacturer-backed roadside assistance program in the Middle East
Nissan Assistance provides complimentary 24/7 support and peace of mind to customers across the region Doha-Qatar (January 8th, 2025) – Nissan has recently introduced a comprehensive manufacturer-backed roadside assist program, Nissan Assistance, in the Middle East, designed to enhance convenience and ownership experiences for customers across the region. Debuting on the all-new Nissan Patrol, this innovative program is available to customers in select markets and will be made available across all MY25 models, setting a new standard for customer care and convenience. Nissan Assistance, which ensures that help is just a call away, includes a wide range of services tailored to address everyday challenges and unique driving needs. These include onsite support for minor mechanical and electrical faults, flat tire replacement, and towing assistance to the nearest Nissan authorized service center in the event of a breakdown. The program also provides lockout services for lost keys, fuel assistance, and exclusive sand recovery of up to 10 kilometers inside the desert, the most extensive coverage in the market. Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President – Middle East, KSA, CIS – Nissan, INFINITI, said: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and with the introduction of Nissan Assistance, we are setting a new benchmark for convenience and care. This program reflects our commitment to enhancing ownership experiences and offering unparalleled support through innovative solutions. Nissan Assistance empowers our customers to drive with confidence and enjoy peace of mind wherever their journeys may take them.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said, “Nissan is committed to enhancing the driving experience for our customers in Qatar and across the Middle East. With the launch of the Nissan Assistance program, we are raising the bar for customer care and convenience in the region. This manufacturer-backed roadside assistance service, available on the all-new Nissan Patrol and soon across all MY25 models, offers unmatched support when it matters most. Whether it’s a flat tire, fuel assistance, or even sand recovery, our customers can rely on prompt, professional service, 24/7. At Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., we are proud to bring this innovative program to the Qatari market, ensuring our customers experience not just world-class vehicles, but also peace of mind on every journey.” When customers contact the 24/7 multilingual call center, highly trained and experienced agents first attempt to resolve issues over the phone, ensuring quick and effective support. If onsite assistance is required, Nissan’s trained technicians promptly reach customers within a short timeframe to provide services such as flat tire replacement or a battery boost. Customers also benefit from WhatsApp support with live tracking, allowing them to stay informed of their assistance in real time. For more complex issues and should a vehicle need to be towed to an authorized Nissan service center, customers enjoy additional conveniences such as complimentary taxi services within city limits. In the event of a breakdown abroad, the program provides up to three days of hotel accommodation. If repairs exceed 72 hours, customers are further supported with a complimentary flight ticket back to their country of residence, ensuring peace of mind during unexpected situations. To reach Nissan Assistance, customers can simply scan the QR code conveniently placed in the main warranty booklet or on the driver-side door, to directly connect with support services. Additionally, WhatsApp support is also available, ensuring customers have seamless and immediate access whenever needed. Nissan Assistance provides five years peace of mind to customers and 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.
Nine Qatari business leaders make it to Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 CEOs 2024
Forbes Middle East released its fourth annual list of the region’s top CEOs earlier this year, a list that recognises business leaders who have made a significant impact over the past year. The list features 100 CEOs from companies based in the MENA region, representing 19 nationalities. Here are the nine Qatar-based business leaders who have been recognised for their achievements and the success of the companies they lead. 04 HE Eng. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs As Deputy Chairman, President and CEO of QatarEnergy – roles that he took on in 2014, HE Al Kaabi became the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Deputy Chairman of QatarEnergy in 2018. In May 2024, QatarEnergy finalised a US$6 billion agreement with China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) to build 18 state-of-the-art QC-Max LNG vessels. Prior to that, In February 2024, QatarEnergy announced the ‘North Field West’ project, aiming to boost Qatar’s LNG production capacity to 142 million tonnes annually by 2030, an 85 percent increase from current levels. 10 Nasser Abdulla Mubarak Al Khalifa As Group CEO of Qatar National Bank – Al-Khalifa joined in 1996 and assumed his current role in November 2018. In 2023, QNB’s assets increased by 4 percent to US$338.2 billion, and net profit rose by 8 percent to US$4.3 billion. In May 2024, QNB extended its partnership with Ooredoo Fintech to develop fintech services and digital innovation in Oman. 36 Aziz Althuman Fakhroo The Group CEO & Managing Director of Ooredoo Group since November 2020, Fakhroo had been overseeing operations across 10 countries in the MENA and Southeast Asia. In June 2024, Ooredoo announced a partnership with NVIDIA to tap into the growing demand for generative AI, accelerated computing, and hyperconnectivity. In the first quarter of 2024, the group reported revenues of US$1.6 billion and total assets of US$15.6 billion. 59 Bassel Gamal As Group CEO of Qatar Islamic Bank, Gamal has led QIB since 2013. In 2023, the bank reported US$52 billion in assets, US$3.1 billion in revenues, and US$1.2 billion in net profits, up 6.6 percent from 2022. In November 2023, QIB issued a US$500 million five-year sukuk. Gamal also chairs QIB-UK and sits on the board of QInvest. 64 Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Fahad bin Faisal Al Thani The Group CEO of Doha Bank, Sheikh Abdulrahman took on his current role in October 2023. As of June 2024, Doha Bank operated 17 branches in Qatar, four overseas branches in the UAE, Kuwait, and India, and representative offices in the UK, Singapore, Turkiye, China, Japan, South Korea, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Nepal. In the first half of 2024, it reported US$118.8 million in net profits and US$29.1 billion in assets. In May 2024, the bank launched a new mobile banking app, now handling nearly 89 percent of transactions. 70 Abdullah Al Sulaiti Al Sulaiti joined Nakilat in 2011 and became CEO in 2013. Nakilat operates one of the world’s largest LNG fleets, with 69 LNG carriers, four very large LPG carriers, and a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU). The company has 27 new LNG carriers on order, plus nine QC-MAX carriers and four LPG/Ammonia carriers. In March 2024, Nakilat signed a long-term charter agreement with QatarEnergy for 25 LNG vessels. Al Sulaiti also chairs Qatar Shipyard Technology Solutions and Qatar Fabrication Company, and is a board member of Gulf Drilling International. 78 Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida Al Jaida took on his role in June 2015. In the first half of 2024, QFC registered 505 new companies, bringing its total to over 2,200. QFC also launched Qatar’s first Digital Assets Lab, focusing on Digital Ledger Technology solutions. Al Jaida serves on the boards of the World Alliance of International Financial Centers, Qatar Finance and Business Academy, Qatar Free Zones Authority, Qatar Stock Exchange, and Sidra Medicine. 80 Tarek El Sayed El Sayed has been CEO and managing director of Al Rayyan Tourism Investment Company, a subsidiary of Al Faisal Holding, since 2017. ARTIC’s portfolio includes over 35 hotels and projects across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America. In November 2023, ARTIC signed a franchise agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts to rebrand its Times Square, New York, hotel as Crowne Plaza. El Sayed previously served as group CFO for Al Faisal Holding. He recently claimed the 26th spot in Forbes ME’s 2024 ‘Top 100 Travel & Tourism Leaders’. 82 Salem Al Mannai Al Mannai joined QIC Group in 2001 and became group CEO in 2020. In 2023, the group operated in 11 countries, generating $2 billion in revenue and a net profit of $169 million, recovering from a $325 million loss in 2022. Al Mannai also chairs the MENA Insurtech Association and played a key role in launching Qatar’s Third Financial Sector Strategy in 2023 with Qatar Central Bank, aiming to position Qatar as an innovative financial hub.
Timeless Elegance Unveiled: Lagoona Mall Watches & Jewellery Week
Lagoona Mall once again became the epicentre of luxury and creativity as it hosted its highly anticipated Watches & Jewellery Week. This exclusive event brought together an extraordinary blend of global icons and regional talents, offering Qatar’s discerning clientele a unique opportunity to explore the finest in watchmaking and jewellery design. This year’s event featured an impressive lineup of renowned brands, including Rolex, CHANEL, Boucheron, TUDOR, Annamaria Cammilli, Azza Fahmy, David Yurman, and many more. Highlights included Rolex’s immersive GMT-Master II Experience, which offered visitors a rare chance to delve into the world of this iconic timepiece. CHANEL introduced its Style Guide Iconic Mix pop-up, where experts helped clients personalise their look with signature collections. Boucheron transported guests to a serene Jardin d’Hiver tea salon, while TUDOR showcased the latest in Swiss watchmaking with models such as the Black Bay and Pelagos FXD Chrono. Azza Fahmy presented Rumuz, a collection inspired by the Kaf symbol, blending North African influences with contemporary design. Additionally, J by JOELLE unveiled private styling sessions, and L’Âme by Fifty One East offered unique, minimalist jewellery with live welding experiences. All in all visitors discovered a world of exquisite craftsmanship and innovation at Lagoona Mall, where every piece told a timeless story of elegance and artistry.
Melodies of elegance: Mouawad’s Symphony Collection with Dana Al Fardan
Mouawad revealed the Symphony Collection in a dazzling launch in Doha, Qatar. This extraordinary jewellery line, created in collaboration with Dana Al Fardan – Qatar’s first female composer and singer-songwriter – captures the transformative power of music and artistic expression. Inspired by piano keys and vertical music bars, the collection is a celebration of harmony, blending the timeless elegance of black jade and the brilliance of white diamonds. Each piece resonates with emotional depth and personal expression, designed to empower and inspire contemporary jewellery lovers. Dana Al Fardan’s latest musical masterpiece, Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light), serves as the collection’s heart: “This collection reflects the unity of our inner light and strength, creating a sanctuary where we shine in our fullest brilliance,” she shares. From dynamic earrings that mirror the rhythm of music to innovative sliding diamond rails in bangles, the collection bridges the worlds of music and jewellery. Co-Guardian Fred Mouawad applauds the collaboration: “It’s a timeless celebration of individuality and elegance.” With this exquisite debut, the Symphony Collection redefines luxury, offering a wearable masterpiece that harmonises craftsmanship, beauty, and meaning.
Setting golden benchmarks of running an exceptional Asian restaurant
General manager of restaurant Morimoto Paulo Bastos peaks about the Distinguished Service Award from Michelin Guide won recently by the restaurant and what it means to the establishment. BL: What does winning the Michelin Award for distinguished service mean for restaurant? Bastos: Winning a Michelin Award for distinguished service signifies that Morimoto has achieved exceptional excellence in its hospitality and customer service. It reflects the establishment’s ability to provide a seamless, welcoming, and memorable dining experience, including professionalism, attentiveness, genuine care and a warm atmosphere. This recognition enhances our reputation, attracts more guests and positions it as a leader in the fine dining industry. BL: As a restaurant manager what are the top five things that you espouse for the betterment of Morimoto Doha?Bastos: The five key principles I uphold to elevate Morimoto Doha are: delivering outstanding customer service; ensuring consistent excellence in food quality; prioritizing employee growth and well-being; embracing innovation; and maintaining adaptability to stay ahead. BL: Given your hospitality experience, what new have you introduced to the restaurant that has consistency with the golden benchmarks of running an Asian restaurant?Bastos: At Morimoto Doha, we have introduced several elements that elevate the dining experience while staying true to the golden benchmarks of running an exceptional Asian restaurant: Refined sushi omakase service: In Doha, we have implemented a personalised sushi omakase experience, where guests are guided through a journey of curated dishes prepared by our chefs. This style of service not only highlights the artistry of Japanese cuisine but also creates an intimate and memorable connection with our patrons. Exclusive culinary offers: Our menu in Doha features unique offerings tailored to the local market, including regionally inspired dishes that incorporate premium ingredients such as saffron, local seafood, and spices while maintaining the authenticity and innovation that define Morimoto. This ensures our menu stands out from what is commonly available in the market. Interactive dining concepts: To differentiate ourselves, we’ve incorporated interactive dining elements such as live sushi masterclasses giving guests the opportunity to witness the precision and expertise of our chefs firsthand. Special events regularly: Hosting seasonal and cultural dining events such as sake and elevated drinks masterclasses, Kai Tai shows , ichiba offers, all with an eye to help reinforce the authenticityof our brand while providing something unique and at the same time, standing out as a pioneer in the local dining scene. BL: The business of food is also an art. What is your take on this?Bastos: The business of food is undeniably an art – one that transcends nourishment to evoke emotion and connection. Each dish is a canvas, where flavours, textures, and colors tell a story, celebrating tradition while daring to innovate. In Qatar, where food is both a cultural celebration and a sensory journey, this artistry takes on profound meaning, bridging heritage with modernity and creating experiences that linger in memory. The art of food lies in crafting not just meals, but moments that resonate deeply. SIDEBAR: “Our recipes capture the true essence of the Morimoto brand”: Restaurant manager Paulo Bastos Culinary excellence: Every dish must showcase premium ingredients and exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting Morimoto’s dedication to innovative techniques and unforgettable flavours. Authenticity with innovation: The menu should blend traditional Japanese culinary heritage with modern, creative twists that embody the Morimoto ethos. Seasonality and sustainability: Prioritising fresh, in-season, and sustainably sourced ingredients to ensure outstanding flavour and environmental responsibility. Visual presentation: Each plate must be crafted with precision and elegance, reflecting the aesthetic sophistication synonymous with Morimoto. Consistency: Recipes are standardised to guarantee a consistently exceptional dining experience across every visit. Guest-centric approach: Menus are thoughtfully designed to accommodate diverse dietary preferences and restrictions while maintaining authenticity and quality. Harmonised flavours: Dishes must achieve a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas, embodying Morimoto’s philosophy of culinary harmony. By upholding these standards, we deliver menus that capture the true essence of the Morimoto brand.
Atomic Habits: What makes or breaks us
James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, delves deep into the power of small habits and their ability to make a big impact on our lives. It offers practical strategies and insightful anecdotes to help readers understand how to build and break habits effectively. The author emphasises that change does not occur overnight, but rather through the accumulation of small, consistent actions and outlines a simple yet powerful framework: the four laws of behaviour change which consists of making habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying. These laws, when applied appropriately, can help readers create desirable habits and eliminate undesirable ones. His whole philosophy is based on the idea of making tiny, or “atom-like” changes. And then those small changes snowball. Clear backs up his claims and advice with scientific research and studies, by illustrating the psychology and neuroscience behind habit formation, and provides a solid foundation for his suggestions. This evidence-based approach adds weight to the ideas presented, making them more compelling. What sets Atomic Habits apart from other self-help books is its practicality. Clear breaks down the process of habit formation into easy-to-follow steps, making it more likely for readers to take action and see real progress, providing various techniques to overcome common stumbling blocks along the way, such as habit stacking and habit tracking, making it easier for readers to build in accountability. This is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their lives by harnessing the power of habit. The four laws
Sidra Medicine launches Qatar’s first cord blood bank
Sidra Medicine has recently launched the country’s first cord-blood banking service which will offer families a unique opportunity to preserve families’ newborns’ stem cells in Qatar, for potential future medical needs. This has been under a partnership with CellSave Arabia, a leading name in the field of biotechnology research. Cord blood banking is the process of collecting and storing the blood from a newborn’s umbilical cord and placenta after birth. The collection is painless, non-invasive, and risk-free for the mother and baby. Cord blood is rich in hematopoietic stem cells, which have the potential to treat various medical conditions, including certain cancers, blood disorders, and immune system diseases. Professor Johnny Awwad, chair of women’s services at Sidra Medicine said: “As the only facility in Qatar providing local cord blood storage, Sidra Medicine offers an unparalleled advantage by keeping the samples in the country. This ensures their optimal quality and immediate access when needed most, compared to having them shipped from abroad. Cord blood is increasingly being stored by parents everywhere, who are seeking to preserve their child’s stem cells as they can be crucial for their child or their sibling/s in the future. Our commitment to the latest technology and international standards further guarantees the utmost reliability and peace of mind for families in Qatar.” All the cord blood samples will be sent to Sidra Medicine’s Cord Blood Bank in its Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility, where cryogenic freezing will allow them to be stored securely for over 30 years. To expand its reach to other families in Qatar, Sidra Medicine signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CellSave Arabia, and the services are available to any family in the country choosing the joint Sidra Medicine and CellSave Arabia service as their stem cell storage provider regardless of whichever hospital their baby is born in. Alia Abdel-Razeq, COO of CellSave Arabia said at the MoU signing ceremony with Sidra Medicine: “Partnering with Sidra Medicine marks a pivotal step in our commitment to healthcare innovation in Qatar. By utilizing Sidra Medicine’s exceptional facilities and expertise, we can significantly elevate our service offerings, ensuring that families in Qatar have access to vital stem cell banking services that support their future health needs.”
