His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will patronize the graduation ceremony of the 49th batch (Class of 2026) of Qatar University (QU) students, held at QU Sports and Events Complex later on Monday.HH Consort of HH the Amir Sheikha Jowaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al-Thani will also patronize the graduation ceremony for outstanding female students Tuesday morning.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani patronised the graduation ceremony of the 49th batch (Class of 2026) of Qatar University, held at the University's Sports and Events Complex last morning. During the ceremony, HH the Amir honoured 180 outstanding graduates across various disciplines, while His Excellency President of Qatar University (QU) Dr Omar bin Mohammed al-Ansari conferred degrees upon 902 graduates. On this occasion, the president of Qatar University delivered a speech, and student Abdullah Khalid al-Kaabi gave an address on behalf of the graduates. His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani attended the ceremony, along with Their Excellencies Sheikhs and ministers, as well as members of QU Board of Trustees, QU Vice Presidents, students' guardians and senior officials. **media[441891]**QU President Omar al-Ansari emphasised that the wise leadership's continued support for QU, and its firm belief in the role of higher education and the capabilities of Qatari youth, is a fundamental pillar in the nation's journey, and enhances the university's position as a leading academic institution that contributes to building the individual and developing society. In his remarks during the graduation ceremony of QU's 49th batch, Class of 2026, he said that QU has served as a beacon of rigorous scholarship. Across generations, students and faculty have contributed to building a strong academic legacy and a community that sees knowledge not as a luxury, but as a necessity, and learning not as a phase, but as a lifelong journey. He pointed out that the graduation day is a culmination of years of dedication and hard work, and the beginning of a new chapter, defined by purpose and impact. He said: "With pride, honour, and gratitude, we celebrate today the graduation of the 49th cohort, welcoming a new group of graduates to the nation's journey of contribution, who will help shape the future of the State of Qatar through their knowledge and capabilities. Today marks a defining moment in the lives of a generation preparing to carry responsibility." "At the same time, QU continues to move forward with confidence in advancing its strategic repositioning initiative - a comprehensive institutional effort to define QU's place within the academic landscape, both locally and globally. This initiative strengthens our institutional identity and reinforces our role as a national institution leading the higher education ecosystem, while contributing to the State's vision of a diversified, knowledge-based economy," he pointed out. The QU president highlighted that this role is not a response to passing global changes but stems from a firmly rooted national vision that affirms the University's place and long-standing contribution to higher education. **media[441889]**Qatar University is a comprehensive institution that places education at the forefront of its priorities, supported by high-quality research aligned with national priorities, driving meaningful, lasting impact on society through close partnerships with institutions across the country, under the guidance of our wise leadership. Addressing the graduates, he said: "You are the result of a journey marked by dedication and sustained effort. What we celebrate today is more than an academic milestone. It is the shaping of minds, the grounding of values, and the growth of capabilities ready to help shape the future. As you step into a fast-changing world that calls for creativity and adaptability, remember that those who know how to think will always find their way. Sincerity in your work, integrity, and a commitment to excellence are the principles that will guide you forward. As you leave your years of study behind, the spirit of the university will stay with you. Move ahead with confidence, work with purpose, and let knowledge light your path, while strong values anchor and protect your journey." Addressing the parents, the QU president said: "You share greatly in this achievement. You have been the constant support and backbone, true partners throughout this journey with all the patience and dedication you have shown. Congratulations on this well-earned moment and may Allah (SWT) bless your efforts." He further said: "I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to my colleagues among the faculty, staff, and all those working at the University for their dedication and continued contributions, which have played a vital role in preparing a generation that is aware, capable, and ready to contribute to the nation's progress. **media[441890]**As QU continues its journey toward further development and renewal, it reaffirms its commitment to remain an active national partner in advancing the aspirations of the State of Qatar." Graduate Abdullah al-Kaabi, from the College of Medicine, delivered the address on behalf of the 49th graduating class, saying: "Today, we stand at Qatar University not to close a chapter, but to open a wide horizon where our contributions can take shape. These years were not simply time spent in study, but a quiet process of inner growth. With every lecture, our horizons expanded; with every discussion, a new question emerged; and with every exam, we came to understand that knowledge is not what we memorize, but what we truly grasp." Addressing his fellow graduates, al-Kaabi said: "We leave Qatar University with a clear conviction: we have not received a 'certificate' as an endpoint, but an 'entrustment' with which we begin shaping the future. We are the nation's most valuable investment. Qatar, a nation that has believed in people as its greatest asset and in knowledge as its path, has not treated education as a phase, but as a national project, embodied in its vision." Hamad Faisal al-Emadi, a graduate of the College of Law, delivered remarks as the master of ceremonies, saying: "Our achievement today is not simply the result of a few years of effort; its roots run deeper, shaped over time. It is part of a legacy that began 49 years ago, when QU was founded as a beacon of knowledge and a guiding light toward a promising and prosperous future."

The Organising Committee of the 4th GCC Games – Doha 2026 has announced the completion of all preparations for hosting the highly anticipated regional event, scheduled to take place from May 11 to 22. Speaking at a press conference held at Al Wajba Hall at the headquarters of the Qatar Olympic Committee, in the presence of officials from the organising committee and media representatives, Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani, Head of the Marketing and Communications Committee, affirmed that Qatar’s hosting of the Games represents a natural extension of the journey of sports cooperation among GCC countries, reflecting the deep-rooted fraternal ties and shared values that unite the peoples of the region.**media[441582]**He said: “This edition of the Games serves as an important platform to strengthen ties among the youth of the GCC countries and to promote noble sporting values, supporting the continued development of joint Gulf sports cooperation and reinforcing the role of sport as a bridge for communication and connection among nations.” He added that the Marketing and Communications Committee has worked on developing a comprehensive identity for the Games, inspired by the region’s culture and heritage, reflecting shared Gulf values while keeping pace with the expectations of diverse sports audiences, with the aim of delivering a distinctive organisational and marketing experience.**media[441583]**Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani noted that a number of official sponsors and strategic partners have been announced, forming a key pillar in supporting the event through partnerships that enhance its public engagement and elevate its marketing and organisational value. He also revealed the official mascot of the Games, “Washeq,” which has been carefully designed as an interactive element reflecting the spirit of the event and strengthening audience engagement, particularly among youth. The Head of the Marketing and Communications Committee invited the public to attend the official opening ceremony, which will take place on May 11 at Al Shaqab, noting that the ceremony will mark a distinctive launch for the Games and reflect the level of preparations achieved. He concluded by emphasizing that work will continue in the coming phase to implement the marketing campaign across all its stages, ensuring strong attendance and engagement, and delivering a successful edition that reflects the stature of GCC countries and the aspirations of their peoples. The Mascot… A Reflection of Gulf IdentityFor her part, Maryam Al Mansoori, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship at the Organising Committee, stated that the selection of the official mascot “Washeq,” inspired by the desert caracal—one of the most prominent symbols of the Arabian Peninsula’s natural environment—was intended to embody the core values upon which the Games are built, most notably fair competition, discipline, and the spirit of Gulf participation, reflecting the slogan: “One Gulf, One Heart.”**media[441580]**She explained that “Washeq” is closely linked to Gulf identity, representing an integral part of the region’s wildlife heritage, historically found across its vast deserts, valleys, and diverse landscapes. This choice reflects the deep cultural and natural ties among GCC countries and reinforces unity and a shared vision for the future. Al Mansoori added that the mascot symbolizes agility, precision, and adaptability, drawing inspiration from the desert environment known for its resilience and flexibility. Its composed appearance and calm nature reflect the professionalism and balance that the Games seek to promote. She noted that the mascot serves as a central element in the Games’ visual identity, contributing to a unified presence across various media platforms, official activities, and on-ground activations, while also fostering a strong emotional connection with audiences across the Gulf region. Qatar Delegation Completes Preparations for Participation in the GamesMeanwhile, Najla Al Khayareen, Head of the Qatari Administrative Delegation, confirmed that the national delegation has reached the highest level of readiness to participate in this major sporting event. She noted that all administrative and organisational preparations have been completed, alongside the provision of accommodation, transport, and logistical and technical support, ensuring optimal conditions for athletes to focus on their competitions. She added that Qatar will participate in 19 sports, noting that this group of athletes has been carefully selected to represent the country in the best possible way at this event, which represents an important milestone in preparation for upcoming competitions. Al Khayareen called on Team Qatar supporters to back the athletes and stand by them, emphasizing that fan support is a key factor in achieving the desired results. She expressed her wishes for success to Qatar’s athletes in delivering strong performances and presenting a distinguished edition that reflects the Gulf spirit. Official Sponsors and Strategic Partners AnnouncedThe Organising Committee announced the list of official sponsors and strategic partners of the Games, which includes Hamad International Airport, Msheireb Properties, Al Kass Channel, Suhail Industrial Holding Group, Kotinos, Bornan, Al Rayyan Water, Dynamic Sports, Al Jazeera Perfumes and The Look Company, as part of partnerships that support the delivery of the Games and enhance its public engagement and overall marketing value. The fourth edition of the GCC Games will feature competitions across 19 sports, including handball, table tennis, athletics, squash, padel, fencing, boxing, taekwondo, karate, swimming, billiards, snooker, basketball (5x5 and 3x3), shooting, archery, volleyball, equestrian, and bowling. Competitions will be held across 11 state-of-the-art venues, including Aspire Dome, the Women’s Sports Hall, Hamad Aquatic Centre, Qatar Sports Club, Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation Hall, Al Gharafa Sports Club, Lusail Shooting Range, Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, Qatar Bowling Federation Hall, and Al Duhail Sports Hall. The inaugural edition of the GCC Games was held in Manama from October 11 to 22, 2011, with the participation of six GCC countries and approximately 1,500 athletes competing in 11 sports. Qatar finished third with 20 medals (7 gold, 11 silver, and 2 bronze). The second edition took place in Dammam from October 12 to 26, 2015, with five participating nations following Kuwait’s withdrawal, and around 1,500 athletes competing in approximately 15 sports. Qatar again finished third, winning 59 medals (21 gold, 22 silver, and 16 bronze). The third edition was held in Kuwait in 2022 from May 16 to 31, with six GCC countries and more than 1,500 athletes competing in 16 sports. Qatar placed fifth in the medal standings with a total of 52 medals (16 gold, 21 silver, and 15 bronze).