VCUarts Qatar offers an array of Community Learning opportunities for Spring 2025
Reading Time: 3 minutesQF partner university opens registration for workshops and courses ranging from Journaling to Interior Design Doha, Qatar: Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university, has announced its lineup for the Community and Continuing Education (CCE) short courses and taster sessions for spring 2025. The courses cater to various age groups and members of the public who would like to learn more about art and design or take their existing creative skills to the next level. The courses and taster sessions are led by professional artists and designers, many of whom are VCUarts Qatar graduates themselves. According to Rasha Alkasab, Program Manager for VCUarts Qatar’s Community & Continuing Education, “The 2025 line-up reflects our pledge to providing innovative courses that are relevant and responsive to the interests of our community. Our ongoing commitment remains steadfast – to curate engaging and educational opportunities that cater to diverse community interests and age groups, while ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of art and design.” For example, an introduction to journaling two-hour workshop is a tasting session that will take place on January 20th. This workshop is focused on the intentionality of journaling and its contribution to creativity and productivity and is timed to coincide with the new calendar year when people are focusing on a more productive and mindful approach to life. This session will be offered free of charge and take place online. Those with an interest in illustration can join an upcoming online workshop that will be taking place on April 7th, focusing on the art of children’s book cover design and illustration for young readers. This course will be led by the well-known Pakistani artist and designer Hazem Asif. A six-week advanced interior design course is also on offer for those eager to deepen their spatial design skills and explore architectural elements, multifunctional spaces and the impact of cultural influence on design. The course will provide hands on practice in creating space plans, and guide participants in creating their own designs. Later in the Spring, VCUarts Qatar will offer an Introduction to Virtual Reality, an evening course taking place over eight weeks, two nights a week, where participants will be immersed in virtual reality design and become familiar with innovative VR design tools like Tilt Brush and Gravity Sketch. For children, VCUarts Qatar is offering a course in acrylic design painting for kids, planned for Tuesday evenings from January 21st to February 25th. Children from 10-14 years old can explore and develop their artistic talents through color theory, brush skills and painting styles and will be guided through projects like landscapes, animals and imaginative scenes. These are just a few examples of the taster workshops and courses coming up soon at VCUarts Qatar. To register, or for further information including course descriptions, times and costs, please visit https://qatar.vcu.edu/campus-community/community-education/ or contact vcuqcommunity@vcu.edu
Ibtechar Launches New Innovation Services at Doha Media Conference
Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – 12 January 2025: Ibtechar, an award-winning innovation agency based in Doha, has announced the launch of two new service offerings: Ibtechar Academy and Ibtechar Consultancy. The announcement was made at a media conference held on January 9th at the Chedi Katara Hotel in Doha, attended by representatives from major Qatari media outlets. CEO and Co-founder, Eng. Nayef Al-Ibrahim, presented the new services, outlining how they will support organisations and individuals in developing and implementing a sustained culture of innovation. Ibtechar Academy focuses on delivering specialised training programmes in areas such as digital upskilling, innovation methodologies, and personal development. Ibtechar Consultancy works with organisations to embed innovation into their culture, strategy, and operations. Eng. Al-Ibrahim detailed the services offered, referencing Ibtechar’s partnerships with the Global Innovation Institute (GInI) and UQ, and highlighting their work across diverse sectors in Qatar. He also showcased Ibtechar’s history of innovation, including the development and management of innovation spaces, their work with Barzan Holdings, and their recognition by the World Economic Forum. With the floor open to questions, Eng. Al-Ibrahim took the opportunity to engage with individual journalists on Ibtechar’s story so far, and plans for the future. Highlights from the Q&A session are presented below. Q: How does Ibtechar tailor its services to clients’ needs? “We customise our solutions by first understanding the client’s needs through an innovation maturity assessment. This helps us determine whether they want to develop internal innovation capabilities or outsource them. We’ve supported entities in both scenarios. For example, we helped Barzan Holdings develop a drone tracking project by outsourcing to an existing company. In other cases, we help entities build internal competency through tailored programmes, hubs (like incubation labs), and other resources. ” Q: Are there any plans to expand in the region? “While we see high demand in the open market, especially with the rise of innovation officers and government initiatives, our priority is fulfilling requirements in Doha for now. Our focus is on helping public, private and third-sector organisations here to enhance their services, products, or internal procedures. Regional expansion is something we have in mind for the future.” Q: What has been a pivotal moment for the company? “Every year has its moments. Founding Ibtechar was a proud moment for me. The first day we moved into our offices was a big one. The first day we secured funding was another. And of course the establishment of our new service areas, which we’ve showcased today. Each moment has a unique value.” Q: What kind of courses does Ibtechar Academy offer? Who can join? “Our services are primarily B2B and B2G. Ibtechar Academy specialises in end-to-end technology training. Our expertise lies in technology development, covering areas like language learning, cybersecurity, and AR/VR. We focus on developing innovative solutions.” Q: It seems your clients are mainly organisations or government entities. Do you target universities, given your training programmes? “Universities are a potential target audience. Our client base is primarily organisations and government entities due to our focus and engagement model. However, we have worked with universities, such as Qatar University, where we developed an innovation lab for their international innovation centre.” Q: What are the company’s core strengths? “Our integrated service offering, combining content, technology, and training, is a key strength. We’ve been doing this for ten years. We specialise in technology, making it easy to adapt to new technologies and customise training quickly. We also have proven experience in designing, supplying, and operating digital labs. In Ibtechar Consultancy, our ability to design, supply, and operate labs for different sectors is a unique strength. This has allowed us to build a strong service line supporting innovation in the market.” Q: How does the company cope with evolving obligations and market demands? “Every year brings new trends. Our focus is on adapting quickly and understanding the objectives behind those trends. This informs how we integrate new developments into our content and training programmes.” Q: Can you elaborate on the company’s growth from a small company to achieving a 100 million milestone? “It’s been a team effort. It took us ten years to reach this point. Growing from a small local company to achieving this figure demonstrates our dynamism and our credibility in the market — and we’re excited to see what the next ten years will bring.” For further information contact info@ibtechar.com
OPPO Unveils Innovative AI Solutions at the 2025 Google Cloud Shenzhen Summit to Boost Smartphone Productivity and Security
Reading Time: 2 minutesQatar, Doha, January 10, 2025: Global leading smart device brand OPPO debuted at the 2025 Google Cloud Shenzhen Summit, announcing further expansion of its collaboration with Google Cloud in AI productivity applications and cloud security, unveiling a series of new features. Kai Tang, President of OPPO’s Software Engineering, said: “OPPO collaborates with top global technology companies with an open mindset, striving to integrate cutting-edge AI technology into our products. Google is one of the leaders in the global AI field, and I believe that the partnership between OPPO and Google will bring users a more efficient and secure next-generation AI experience.” （Kai Tang at Google Cloud Shenzhen Summit) OPPO and Google Expand Collaboration in AI Productivity In the Find X8 series launched in international markets, OPPO has utilized Google’s Gemini model in several efficient productivity tools: Based on the long-term collaborative achievements with Google in the field of AI, OPPO announces that it will introduce Google AI capabilities into more new application scenarios in the future, including: OPPO Collaborates with Google Cloud on Mobile Cloud Security Architecture While AI can bring significant convenience to users, many powerful AI applications still rely on the power of cloud computing. Ensuring the secure handling of user information in the cloud has become a significant challenge for the industry. OPPO believes smartphone manufacturers must work with cloud service providers and other partners to build end-to-end security and privacy protection capabilities, ensuring the optimal protection of user information. OPPO announced it would collaborate with Google Cloud on mobile cloud security architecture and develop Private Computing Cloud technology to provide users with a safer AI experience. OPPO is dedicated to making AI phones accessible to everyone. By developing its own AI technologies and collaborating with leading industry partners like Google, OPPO aims to deliver the best AI experience through its smartphone devices.
Place Vendôme & Qatar Tourism Honoured for Innovative Collaboration
Reading Time: 2 minutesDoha, 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
Reading Time: 3 minutesPress 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
Reading Time: 2 minutes8 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
Reading Time: 3 minutesNissan 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
Reading Time: 3 minutesForbes 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
Reading Time: < 1 minuteLagoona 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
Reading Time: < 1 minuteMouawad 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.
