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A spell of cold weather is expected to affect Qatar and several Gulf countries in the days leading up to the New Year, as meteorologists warn of a cold air mass moving southwards across the region.In Qatar, temperatures are forecast to drop steadily, prompting residents and visitors to brace for cooler days and chilly nights. According to AccuWeather, nighttime temperatures in the coming days are expected to range between 12°C and 16°C, while daytime highs will hover between 20°C and 24°C. The Qatar Meteorology Department (MET) said temperatures between midnight and 6am on December 29 will range from 20°C to 22°C, but will feel closer to 19°C, with less than a 5% chance of rain during the day.**media[398270]**MET forecasts also indicate that the cold will intensify further in the days ahead, with “feels-like” temperatures dropping to around 12°C, particularly during the early morning hours. Visibility is expected to remain moderate to good from midnight to late morning through much of the coming week.As winter conditions set in, jackets and sweatshirts have become a common sight across Doha. Outdoor enthusiasts, including walkers and joggers, as well as gym-goers, have been taking extra precautions during workouts as temperatures dip.**media[398271]**Elsewhere in the Gulf, similar conditions are expected. In Kuwait, meteorologist Issa Ramadan warned that a cold wave driven by the passage of a cold air front will bring noticeably lower temperatures, especially at night and during early mornings.**media[398272]**North-westerly winds, ranging from moderate to occasionally strong, are expected to increase the sensation of cold, particularly in open and desert areas. Residents have been urged to take precautions during late-night and early-morning hours.**media[398273]**Other Gulf countries are also likely to feel the effects of the cold air mass, with cooler-than-usual temperatures expected across parts of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain as the New Year approaches. Meteorologists across the region continue to advise caution, particularly for those outdoors at night, as the Gulf experiences one of its coldest spells of the season. 

 With open-air cinema, heritage festivals, desert escapes..., the family-friendly events are drawing residents and visitors alike from other GCC countries  A range of outdoor, cultural, and family-friendly events are drawing residents and visitors across Qatar and other GCC countries this winter season, offering open-air cinema, heritage celebrations, immersive desert experiences. At Msheireb Downtown Doha, the Baraha Cinema continues to present one-of-its-kind alfresco movie experience, turning the square into a premium cinema. Branded as the “Taste Cinema Experience”, the venue combines film screenings with interactive activities and themed meals served on movie-inspired plates, creating a fully immersive outing for all ages. Opened on December 24, Baraha Cinema will run until January 3, 2026. Culture and tradition take centre stage at the Qatari Heritage Festival at Ain Mohammad Heritage Village, which celebrates Qatar’s heritage, Bedouin lifestyle and customs. The festival runs until December 29 and continues on weekends until February 14, 2026. Visitors can explore traditional Qatari cuisine, camel and falcon heritage zones, crafts, storytelling sessions, live folk performances and a wide range of activities for children and families. According to Visit Qatar, the festival offers an authentic cultural experience in a vibrant setting. Highlights include a traditional Qatari food court with live cooking and wood-fire grills, a Camel Heritage Zone with caretaking demonstrations and guided interactions, and a Falconry Arena featuring daily shows and educational sessions. Other attractions include traditional Gulf games, weekend championships, artisan markets, heritage workshops and themed photo zones.  Meanwhile, Qatar’s newest immersive attraction, the Lantern Festival, continues to attract large crowds at Al Bidda Park. The event features more than 400 illuminated lanterns spread across a 55,000sq m area, along with interactive displays, cultural performances and family-friendly activities. Organised by Safe Flight Solutions, the festival will run until March 28, 2026 and aims to offer a warm, community-focused celebration of creativity and culture. In western Qatar, Visit Qatar’s Brouq events are running until January 17, 2026, providing visitors a unique desert escape near Our Habitas Ras Abrouq Resort. The Desert Escape experience includes dining, glamping and cultural activities set against the dramatic desert landscape. Our Habitas Ras Abrouq is a premium eco-retreat located at the edge of the Unesco-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve in north-west Qatar, around an hour’s drive from Doha.Visitors can explore events at Film City, Desert Escape and Our Habitas Ras Abrouq, while children can take part in workshops by Al-Hosh Gallery and enjoy daily performances and live entertainment. Guests can also stay overnight in fully equipped glamping tents overlooking the sea, with each tent including a food basket, beverages and a barbecue set. 

Qatar’s diversification and streamlined business regulations have made it an attractive investment destination and a friendly base for female and foreign entrepreneurs, according to Japanese business strategist Ruqaiya Mihara Rieh. “The culture here is welcoming to anyone who takes on a challenge, regardless of gender or nationality, as long as they have a strong will, a great idea, and respect for the culture,” she told Gulf Times. After doing business in Japan and Pakistan, Mihara, who now works as a consultant in Qatar’s travel, food, and hospitality sectors, points to her own journey as a testament to the Gulf state's openness. She also assists Qatar’s first Japanese travel coordination agency, a venture she said aims to go beyond traditional tourism. Her main goal is to create opportunities for “education and cultural exchange” and to dispel common misconceptions about the Middle East. “Much of the information about the Middle East, Gulf and Islam that reaches Japan is biased. I want Japanese students, in particular, to experience the reality of Qatar in Gulf: a safe, clean place with highly educated people,” she said. Mihara believes that promoting exchanges between Japanese and Qatari students will serve as an “invaluable bridge” for the future of the two countries. Citing the broader tourism industry as an example, Mihara expressed optimism about Qatar’s steady transformation from a post-World Cup sports hub to a cultural and business hub. She said she sees the recent 2025 Osaka Expo as a platform to showcase this "new face" of Qatar to the Japanese market. “I am confident that relations between the two countries will deepen further by promoting Qatar not only as an important energy partner for Japan, but also as a destination for cultural exchange and educational travel,” Mihara said. She also noted that Qatar's unique blend of Islamic traditions and an ultra-modern city appeals strongly to Japanese travellers, noting that many customers who visit Doha on a short layover return for longer stays to experience Qatar in depth. Mihara noted that the government’s efforts to diversify the economy are evident in the streamlined registration procedures and the flexibility it now allows foreigners to independently establish businesses. She said that international entrepreneurs considering entering the Gulf market should recognise that financial incentives are a consideration of Islamic culture. “Currently, Qatar has no sales or income tax. Foreign-only corporations are required to pay a 10% corporate tax, which is a very friendly rate compared to other countries. If you are grateful for this favourable situation and act in a way that respects Arab, Qatari, and Islamic culture, you will surely find good allies and supporters,” she explained. She encouraged potential investors to have a long-term perspective and patience, saying, “Qatar has a grand national vision. If you work with the spirit of wanting to contribute, even if only a small contribution, to the further development of Qatar’s future generations, you will surely be able to seize great opportunities”. 

 Qatar Museums (QM) has taken the third edition of “World Wide Walls: Doha” deeper into the city’s neighbourhoods, bringing unique cultural experiences closer to communities.Organised under the QM’s Public Art programme, this street-art festival is unfolding at Al Aziziyah area, where two Qataris and 12 international artists are transforming building facades into public art pieces.Speaking to *Gulf Times on the sidelines of a press preview yesterday, QM senior public art planning specialist Dimitrije Bugarski said the team worked directly with private building owners instead of one stakeholder, a process that required careful co-ordination and community engagement.“Usually, if you notice, most cultural content happens around the coastal line,” he said. “We wanted to go more into the city, into the fabric, and bring something to the people and neighbourhoods who lack this kind of content.”“We want to enrich their space visually and aesthetically so they can enjoy it within their own grounds, instead of having to go far from home to see something of this sort,” Bugarski said.He added that the selection of artists this year reflects the QM’s ongoing effort to broaden representation and deepen international collaboration.“We always aim to have artists from each continent, to bring as much diversity as we can. We managed to do that this time as well,” Bugarski said.He noted that the lineup includes participants from Chile and Argentina, both part of Qatar’s Years of Culture engagements, alongside artists from festivals that the QM has partnered with, such as Hawaii Walls, Japan Walls and HK Walls in Hong Kong.According to Bugarski, such initiatives and partnerships also create what he describes as a global artist exchange that enriches both local talent and Doha’s cultural scene.Among the participating artists is American muralist Roxy Ortiz, who works under the name Wooden Wave alongside her husband, Matt.Their mural at Al Aziziyah takes the form of a falcon-shaped dwelling, which she said is a visual narrative that links together Qatari heritage, nature, and sustainability.“We incorporated the Bedouin tent structure with the souq market,” Ortiz said, noting that the composition layers symbolic elements: young falcons perched on stands, geometric motifs drawn from local architecture, and a mangrove tree forming the structure of the falcon’s head, a tribute to Qatar’s coastal ecosystems.The artist said one of the most striking features is the falcon’s ‘eyelid,’ depicted as solar panels.“It has something to do with technology and sustainability, using the resources here,” she added. “There’s a lot of beautiful sunshine, so you can use that for energy.”Australian mural artist Kitt Bennett said his piece explores humanity’s evolving relationship with technology, from smartphones to artificial intelligence (AI), visualising how deeply intertwined daily life has become with digital tools.“One of the main themes is how we as humans and our technology... are becoming more and more merged,” he said. “The rise of AI is super interesting right now, and usually as an artist, if you think about something (of its) a lot, it comes out in your art.”Bennett pointed out that street art’s power lies in its visibility and vulnerability.“It’s a very powerful place to be, a super vulnerable place, to put your stuff in the public, but I love doing it, even though it’s exhausting,” he said. 

Madrid’s early recognition of a Palestinian state provided the country with key leverage in mediation efforts, Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said, stressing that peace cannot be built on the “eternal refugee status” of an entire people.Albares was speaking at a high-level panel at the Doha Forum titled “Mediation in a Time of Fragmentation.” He was joined by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani; Kaja Kallas, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy for the European Union; and Hakan Fidan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Türkiye.The discussion, moderated by CNN Chief International Anchor Christiane Amanpour, addressed the deep diplomatic fissures caused by the war in Gaza. Amanpour pressed the Spanish Minister on the controversial timing of Spain's decision, alongside Ireland and Norway, to recognise Palestinian statehood. Asked to define what leverage the declaration had generated, Albares rejected the criticism that the move was a void movement. He said the recognition served as a catalyst, prompting a wave of similar acknowledgments from other nations, including permanent members of the UN Security Council.“Working for peace always gives you leverage. We were the first, and we were leading the way towards what we all know... is the real path for security and for peace for both Palestinians and Israelis,” he said.Albares described the decision as one born of pure humanity and justice, rather than mere political maneuvering: “I don’t see why in the world we would assume that the Palestinian people is the only people in the world that are eternally condemned to be a people of refugees”.He pointed out that the international community cannot accept violence as the only method of interaction in the region.Citing his continent’s history, Albares posed a rhetorical question about the potential for transformation in the Middle East, noting the creation of the European Union as proof that borders, once viewed as a “curse” and a cause for war, can be turned into instruments of co-operation. However, Spain’s top diplomat stressed that moral arguments mean little without action. Pointing to the reported death toll of 70,000 Palestinians, including many children, he said that anyone who believes in the UN Charter “cannot remain unmoved” and must act. Albares also announced that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will visit Madrid this Wednesday to continue these diplomatic efforts. The Minister laid out a broad blueprint for a future Palestinian state: a single authority governing both the West Bank and Gaza, linked by a corridor with access to the sea, and anchored by Jerusalem as its capital. Realising this vision, he stressed, requires an immediate halt to illegal settlements and settler violence, as well as a massive reconstruction effort in Gaza.“The day we will have achieved [this]... we will have achieved what Europe stands for. It’s peace and the respect of international law and international humanitarian law,” Albares said.

The opening of the Doha Forum 2025 tomorrow will witness Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani speaking at the first panel discussion, titled 'Mediation in a Time of Fragmentation’.His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed will be joined by Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President, European Commission; Jose Manuel Albares, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, Spain; and Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Türkiye at the session, which will be moderated by CNN’s Chief International Anchor.Themed ‘Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress’, the 23rd Doha Forum will take place at Sheraton Grand, Doha from December 6-7 under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.Bringing together world leaders, policymakers, and experts from across the globe, organisers noted that the Forum will convene diverse voices to exchange perspectives and explore pathways toward a more just, balanced and sustainable world.Part of the programme also includes a Newsmaker Interview at 11.45am with Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Qatar Energy president and CEO His Excellency Saad Sherida al-Kaabi.Dr Majed al-Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and official spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs will speak at a session on ‘Gulf – EU Relations in the Age of Strategic Isolation’, at 12pm, along with high-level participants from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Italy.A session, titled ‘Global Trade Tensions: Economic Impact and Policy Responses in MENA;’ will see Qatar’s Minister of Finance His Excellency Ali Ahmed al-Kuwari sharing his views on how countries in the MENA region navigate rising global trade and policy uncertainty.Qatar Museums chairperson Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani will also take part in a talk on ‘Humanity’s Next Chapter: Innovation and Impact from the Global South’, along with Gates Foundation chair Bill Gates, and Dangote Foundation president Aliko Dangote. Al Jazeera principal presenter Folly Bah Thibault will moderate this discussion at 4.30pm. 

For three decades, Chris Franzen worked at the forefront of the global hospitality boom, managing sprawling portfolios in India and launching ultra-luxury landmarks in the Middle East.But when he took the helm as managing director of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne on April 1, 2024, it wasn’t just a new appointment, it was a homecoming that closed a 30-year circle.Franzen, a third-generation hotelier, has returned to Switzerland with a unique mandate: to apply the agility of the Middle Eastern market and the service ethos of Asia to one of Europe’s most historic alpine destinations. Stepping into the role at Bürgenstock, he sees a seamless transition from his recent tenure opening the Waldorf Astoria Lusail in Qatar.Speaking to *Gulf Times on the sidelines of the Qatar Travel Mart 2025 in Doha on Tuesday, Franzen says, “The managing director role at the Bürgenstock fits perfectly into my career profile because it’s a very international resort”.With a guest list covering the United States, the UK, rising markets in Thailand, and a huge clientele from the Arab world, the demographics mirror the global portfolios he managed in India and the Gulf Cooperation Council region.However, he says the synergy goes deeper than that. The resort is owned by Katara Hospitality, the Qatar-based global hotel owner and developer. Franzen’s extensive experience in Doha, witnessing the city’s meteoric rise from the ‘Old Airport’ era of 2012 to the gleaming metropolis that hosted the 2022 World Cup, gives him a distinct advantage. He speaks the language of the owners, understanding their strategic vision in a way few European managers can.“I’m extremely lucky that I work for Katara Hospitality," Franzen notes, citing their stewardship of iconic assets like the Raffles Singapore and The Savoy Hotel in London. “Having an owner who has a very clear strategy... helps a lot. This money is not invested in a building, it’s invested in brand building”.While Franzen respects the heritage of Swiss hospitality, he is keeping a keen eye on the future. He identifies two diverging trends that will define the next era of the Bürgenstock Resort: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and “well-aging”.Franzen argues that while luxury will always require a high-touch, human element, “looking each other in the eyes”, AI has a critical role to play in the back of house. By automating confirmations and calls, he aims to free up staff to engage more deeply with guests.Simultaneously, he is turning the resort’s wellness strategy toward longevity: “I want to stay away from the word fitness or well-being because it’s overused,” he says. Instead, he envisions the hotel as a sanctuary for an aging, affluent demographic that seeks to age gracefully in a five-star environment.For Franzen, the return to Switzerland was driven by a desire to be closer to his aging parents, but it has sparked a personal rediscovery of his homeland. After years in the flat, arid landscapes of Qatar, where he gave up his passion for motorbiking, the Swiss Alps have reawakened his love for the road.“I didn't realise until I went back how much I missed motorbiking. Sitting on a bike and going up a hill... the fresh air and having a helmet on without having to answer the phone,” he recalls.This appreciation for the seasons, specifically the crisp Swiss autumn, contrasts sharply with the perspective of his peers who never left. Franzen observes a stark difference in mindset between himself and childhood friends who remained in Switzerland.“They have not been exposed to other cultures... their mindset has not changed,” Franzen reflects. “Sometimes I think, wow, I must be much younger than they are. Not physically, but mentally”.Despite his global outlook, Franzen says his leadership style remains rooted in the lessons learned from his father and grandfather. Whether managing 13 hotels in India or a single luxury resort in the Alps, his philosophy focuses on discipline and the democratisation of respect.“For me, it never made a difference how I treat employees or guests if it’s a privately owned hotel or a big corporate chain,” Franzen says. “An employee for me was always a colleague, someone to listen to”. 

The Gulf-Qatari Classic Car Association launched the sixth edition of the Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest & Exhibition 2025 at The Pearl Island yesterday, featuring some of the world’s rarest vintage vehicles.The expanded showcase, held under the honorary patronage of Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, was inaugurated by prominent Qatari businessman and philanthropist HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani. He is also the chairman of Al Faisal Holding, and the founder of the Al Faisal Global Foundation for Culture and Knowledge. He was joined by Ahmed al-Hammadi, director general of the General Retirement and Social Insurance Authority and Chairman of United Development Company (UDC).Running until November 23 at Medina Centrale, the event is held under the direct supervision of the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) and displays an array of classic vehicles from Qatar and across the GCC.HE Sheikh Faisal lauded the exhibition as a major milestone, driven by record-breaking regional participation for the second year running. He stressed that the extensive national support highlights Qatar’s resolve to protect its engineering history.“We are proud of the distinguished status this event has achieved regionally and globally. It has become a platform that brings together classic car enthusiasts, supporting institutions, and audiences passionate about industrial and engineering heritage. These events are not just about displaying cars — they tell stories of innovation, design, and history, enriching Qatar’s cultural identity,” he said in a press statement.Organisers noted that a competition will select the top cars across five categories, covering models from pre-1947 to 1995, with three winners in each category. Additional awards will recognise standout vehicles for authenticity, heritage preservation, and overall excellence. For the first time, winners will receive both financial and in-kind prizes.Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khalid al-Thani, Board Member of the association, stated that every edition aims to deliver added value by selecting the finest classic cars for display.Engineer Abdullatif Ali al-Yafei, secretary-general and Board Member, added: “The sixth edition of the event has witnessed broad participation from the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, representing 40% of the total participating vehicles.”Qatar Museums CEO Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi noted that this marks the first official presence of the Qatar Auto Museum in the exhibition, highlighting the institution’s role in showcasing cultural history and the artistic value of automobiles. This includes a remarkable display of the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, linking the exhibition to the origins of the modern automotive era.UDC CEO Yasser al-Jaidah stated that hosting the event at The Pearl Island adds a prestigious dimension to the island’s lineup of high-profile cultural and luxury experiences. He stressed that the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to view some of the world’s rarest classic vehicles in an environment that blends heritage with elegance.Hussain Omar Alfardan, CMO of Alfardan Automotive, stressed that sponsoring the event aligns with the group’s strategy to support Qatar’s growing passion for classic cars. He noted that this interest represents an appreciation of artistic and historical value. He also highlighted the aim of building a community around this passion and contributing to the economic and tourism sectors through sustainable events.Meanwhile, organisers added that Daam’s sponsorship of the exhibition underlines its dedication to preserving national heritage and cultivating cultural awareness. By supporting such initiatives, the fund seeks to deepen community engagement and foster intergenerational connections that honour Qatar’s enduring legacy.

Slovenian President Dr Natasa Pirc Musar urged nations to move beyond geopolitical divisions and uphold international law, describing her nation’s recognition of Palestine as an important step towards realising a two-state solution and securing lasting peace in the Middle East.“When Slovenia recognised Palestine a year and a half ago, it was not an easy decision. We were one of the first three European countries, alongside Spain and Ireland, to take that step after many years. But it was the right thing to do, to be on the right side of history,” Dr Pirc Musar told the audience during her lecture, “The Realities of Multipolarism vs the Need for Multilateralism”, at Hamad Bin Khalifa University Monday.The lecture formed part of her official visit to Qatar and reflected HBKU’s ongoing commitment to advancing international dialogue on diplomacy and governance. Elected in 2022 as Slovenia’s first woman head of state, Dr Pirc Musar discussed global power dynamics, the erosion of multilateral co-operation, and the moral responsibility of states to act in defence of humanity.Dr Pirc Musar noted that 150 out of 193 United Nations member states now recognise Palestine, calling the move “a necessary first step” towards equality and dialogue. “If you advocate for a two-state solution,” she said, “don’t you think it is hypocrisy to recognise one state and not the other?”She stressed that Slovenia’s support for Palestine stems from both moral conviction and historical experience. Drawing parallels with the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica, she recalled how the tragedy in the Balkans continues to shape her nation’s empathy toward people suffering under conflict.“The sympathy we have for those who suffer is still alive because of Srebrenica. Watching the situation in Palestine brings back those painful memories,” the Slovenian president said.She also condemned political polarisation within Europe, questioning why human rights and humanitarian principles have become issues of left and right.“Are human rights left or right? They are not,” she said, recounting how she was criticised by right-wing parties after describing the situation in Gaza as genocide before the European Parliament.“I am neither pro-Palestinian nor pro-Israeli. I am for humanity. If we neglect international law, what’s left? Chaos,” Dr Pirc Musar said.Noting that peace requires both justice and equality, she said that recognising Palestinian statehood is not a solution in itself but “a first step” toward building a fair and lasting peace.She pointed out that Israel “deserves to have a state,” but condemned the violations of international law following October 7, questioning Israel’s claims of self-defence on foreign territory.“You have the right to self-defence on your own territory. On foreign territory, the answer is no,” she stressed. Dr Pirc Musar warned that the world today faces more than 65 armed conflicts, the highest number since World War II, and lamented the global community’s inability to stop wars in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and elsewhere. “That’s where we are today in the 21st century,” she said. Dr Pirc Musar underlined Slovenia’s diplomatic stance as a nation without colonial history and “without hidden agendas.” She called on world leaders to restore faith in multilateralism, pursue dialogue grounded in international law, and commit to peace not as a slogan, but as a shared obligation.“If we want permanent peace and justice, we must offer statehood for Palestine. That is the only way forward,” she said.

Slovenian President Dr Nataša Pirc Musar has reiterated her call to abolish the United Nations (UN) Security Council’s absolute veto power, arguing that the privilege 'corrupts absolutely' and has left the UN in a 'big struggle' to uphold its mission of global peace and security.“When you do have something absolute, it is always a problem,” she said. “You know what the saying is?, ‘Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely’. It is so true, also in politics,” Pirc Musar said in her lecture, titled “The Realities of Multipolarism vs the Need for Multilateralism”.She was speaking at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Minaretein Auditorium Monday, addressing global governance, artificial intelligence, and gender equity. The event forms part of her official visit to Qatar and reflected HBKU’s ongoing efforts to foster international dialogue on diplomacy and leadership.Elected in 2022 as Slovenia’s first woman head of state, Pirc Musar used the platform to make an appeal for UN reform, particularly targeting what she described as the “hybrid war” within the Security Council, where five permanent members – the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China – hold veto powers.The Slovenian president noted that while France and the United Kingdom have refrained from using the veto since 1986, other permanent members continue to use, and in some cases, abuse the power, stalling collective action in times of global crisis. “For 25 years we have been discussing UN reform. For 25 years we didn’t make any steps,” she added.Pirc Musar outlined three proposals to curb the Security Council’s unchecked authority: Restricting voting rights of countries under discussion in the Council; banning the use of vetoes in cases involving mass atrocities, crimes against humanity, or genocide; and subjecting veto decisions to review by the UN General Assembly, where a two-thirds majority could overrule or confirm them.The Slovenian president cited her September address at the UN General Assembly, where Slovenia urged the body to seek an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on the legality and limits of the veto power in cases of humanitarian crises. “Now is the time to discuss this really very important topic,” she said, adding that “we don’t have another 25 years to waste.”Pirc Musar also touched on the interconnectedness of global issues, from wars in Ukraine, Palestine, and Sudan to the ethical implications of artificial intelligence: “Everything is interconnected,” she stressed, adding that knowledge-sharing and cultural dialogue are vital to overcoming political egoism and sustaining multilateral co-operation.“Knowledge is to be shared and not a single country on this planet has all the knowledge it needs,” she said. “If you only stick to your own country and are not willing to share, that is egoistic.”Pirc Musar also tackled the theme of gender equity, linking it to the broader struggle for fairness and inclusion in global governance.Echoing her faith in multilateralism, she described the UN as “the only multilateral body covering the whole planet,” insisting that it “should be the diamond of international politics.”

The Fire Station: Artists in Residence is set to host two unique exhibitions on November 13, unveiling the work of two established Qatar-based artists from its 2025 Ruwad in Residence programme. The exhibitions, “And Then, A Return” by Fatma al-Naimi and “What Remains to Be Seen” by Aissa Deebi, will open simultaneously at 7pm and remain on view until December 13. Both artists are presenting the outcome of their residency under the Ruwad in Residence programme, which was launched in 2021. The initiative is designed to support established Qatar-based artists, ensuring an ongoing connection between the Fire Station and local talent of different career levels to foster an exchange between established and emerging artists. At Gallery 3, al-Naimi’s latest series, “And Then, A Return,” unfolds a deeply introspective visual narrative that explores the dynamic interplay between moments of control and surrender. **media[379455]** The title itself captures the rhythm of her work: a journey through uncertainty followed by a reflective ending that carries the weight of transformation. Through layered compositions, al-Naimi contemplates the fundamental cycles of life and emotion, where every disruption ultimately finds its quiet resolution. She introduces flowers as recurring motifs, utilising them as powerful symbols of hope and renewal. These floral forms emerge as “quiet witnesses to resilience, signs of life’s persistence even amid instability,” inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty inherent in impermanence and the strength found in vulnerability. For al-Naimi, the act of painting becomes both a reflection and a means of reconciliation. Meanwhile, Deebi’s exhibition, “What remains to Be Seen,” takes over Gallery 4 with a confrontational focus on vision, power, and resistance in the contemporary age. Deebi’s paintings directly challenge systems of power and surveillance that have weaponised vision, aiming to reclaim the image for human and moral expression. His work actively refuses the “aerial gaze that flattens cities into co-ordinates and lives into data,” positioning seeing as an essential ethical act. Using the thought “slowness of paint and gesture,” Deebi resists the high-speed acceleration of modern visual culture. His canvases often feature evocative grey fields and fractured horisons that suggest cities “after impact”, where white signifies erasure and black is a residue of what endures. Citing Ghassan Kanafani’s seminal novella, Deebi transforms the act of looking into an existential question: what remains when all has been lost? The artist asserts that to see in this context “is to endure and to endure is, itself, an act of resistance”.

The Oshar Art Gallery at the Qatar Boat Show 2025 celebrates the nation’s rich seafaring heritage while spotlighting the role Qatari women play in shaping the country’s cultural landscape, according to its curator, Munina Mohammed. Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the show, Mohammed said the exhibition features a majority of female artists and presents a collection of maritime-themed artworks that seek to redefine Qatar’s collective memory of the sea. “A Qatari woman has a really huge impact of the spaces that she interacts with, especially in art and culture,” she said, citing the extraordinary work, influence, and achievements of Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. Mohammed said HE Sheikha Al Mayassa is leading the nation’s cultural institutions and exhibitions, noting that many of her directors are women – actively shaping Qatar’s art scene through research, curation, and innovative projects. She pointed out that ‘Osha’ touches on more than just the boats and the waves. It also incorporates literature and spirituality with one of the sculptures reflecting the traditional prayers of the sailors who ventured out to the sea. The curator said she aims to address the often-overlooked female perspective within the nation’s maritime history. While men went diving for pearls, Mohammed highlights the contributions of women left behind: “What about females who were waiting near to the sea and was actually praying for him? That’s also a part that I wanted to actually address” “I wanted to focus on not just keeping the exhibition to be about the sea but also talking about the colours, the human elements, the words that they used...” she said. The gallery, which transforms the marina’s shoreline into a space for creativity and reflection, showcases original, purchasable pieces by a diverse group of Qatari and Qatar-based artists, including Yousif Ahmed, Salman al-Malik, Maryam al-Attiya, Ali Ghaddaf, Nawal al-Mannai, Hind al-Obaidli, Maryam Mohammed Abdulla, Lina al-Aali, Hayan Maani, Salem Mathkour, Najla al-Khalifa and Shuaa Ali. Mohammed, who balances her role as a communications manager with her passion for art - collecting, working with, and writing about paintings – explained the intentional concept behind the gallery’s name and vision. She said this name serves as a springboard for the exhibition’s core theme: the enduring collective memory and identity of the Qatari people. The exhibition’s concept, the curator added, was developed around their shared heritage, centering on their experiences of the sea, fishing, boats, the desert, and other elements that shape their cultural identity. According to Mohammed, the curation aims to break the traditional barrier of time in art, which includes paintings from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and new pieces from 2025. “I wanted to show that the people have the same memory,” she said, adding the display demonstrates that despite the nation gaining a better economy, the people’s fundamental appreciation for their origins remains strong.

The ‘Dive into Hope’ initiative brought together Qatar’s diving community, families, and supporters in a two-day event that culminated in a tribute to cancer survivors and raised funds for the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS). Held over two weekends at the 4x4 Beach Resort, Sealine, the event was organised by Deep Blue Diving Centre in collaboration with the Qatar diving community. Initiated by diving instructors Zaina Fadel and Mohammed Hammamdeh, the movement began on October 10 when 50 experienced divers plunged into the Gulf waters to create a “Message of Hope”. This collective dive was both a physical act of solidarity and a potent visual representation of courage, healing, and community support for those battling cancer. **media[378576]** A week later, on the main event day, October 17, the message was unveiled to more than 400 attendees. The centerpiece was the screening of an underwater video, capturing the divers’ formation and unity. Shared on a large screen, the footage reinforced the theme that hope can rise from the depths to reach every heart. A highlight of the day was the attendance of cancer survivors, who shared their inspiring personal journeys with the crowd. In a moving gesture, three women survivors were invited to experience scuba diving for the first time through a specialised Discover Scuba Diving session. As the women surfaced from the water, safe and exhilarated, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause across the beach. Their courage served as a powerful symbol, reminding everyone that hope is not just a feeling, but a strength that carries people forward. The emotional drive behind the event was shared by one of the key organisers, Zaina Fadel. “This event means a lot to me personally. After losing my mother to cancer, I wanted to give back in a way that carries her spirit forward. ‘Dive into Hope’ was born from that feeling, from the desire to turn pain into purpose. **media[378575]** “I worked on this event from my heart, day and night, because I wanted to see it come to life and deliver a message that truly touches people, a message of unity, compassion, and hope,” Fadel said in a statement. The family-friendly event also featured interactive spaces, sponsor booths, and activities designed to encourage connection, awareness, and giving back. The event, supported by Al-Wakra Municipality and the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association, strengthened collaboration across the local community. Proceeds generated from the initiative are being donated directly to QCS, reflecting the organising team's commitment to supporting patients and raising awareness. Organisers have confirmed that due to the overwhelming success and impact, plans are already underway to expand 'Dive into Hope' into an annual initiative, using diving not just as a sport, but to spread awareness and bring hope to others through action, unity, and compassion.

A regular passenger maritime link connecting Qatar and Bahrain was officially inaugurated yesterday (November 6) at Al-Ruwais Port, signaling the start of a new phase of constructive bilateral co-operation in maritime transport. The event was led by Qatar’s Minister of Transport HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Thani and Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications HE Dr Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed al-Khalifa, along with other government and port officials between the two countries. **media[378270]** This new service establishes a maritime connection between Qatar’s Al-Ruwais Port and Bahrain’s Saada Port, covering a sea distance of around 35 nautical miles (about 65kms). In a press statement, Sheikh Mohammed said: “This project represents a pioneering strategic step that reflects the depth of fraternal ties between the two brotherly countries, while further strengthening co-operation and integration among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. “The project also reflects Qatar’s keenness to establish and enhance developmental and strategic partnerships with the Kingdom of Bahrain in the fields of transportation, logistics, and related services, in a way that serves mutual interests and promotes economic integration within the GCC framework.” According to the Ministry of Transport (MoT), travel time between the two ports ranges from 70 to 80 minutes. Passengers can book services and flexibly manage their travel schedules using the dedicated ‘Masar’ mobile application. **media[378271]** In its initial phase, the project will offer passenger services to GCC citizens and residents. The inaugural operational trips are scheduled from today (November 7) to November 12, providing two daily round trips, one in the morning and one in the evening. MoT noted that service frequency will soon increase, with three daily round trips planned from November 13 to 22. Further gradual expansion of the schedule remains an option, subject to demand and utilisation rates. The service will utilise two types of vessels: standard-class ships accommodating 28 passengers per trip, and VIP-class ships with a capacity of up to 32 passengers. Both vessel types are outfitted with modern hospitality services and amenities to ensure passenger comfort. In addition, all approved security and customs procedures in both countries will be strictly applied to guarantee travelers’ safety. Sheikh Mohammed stressed that MoT, in collaboration with its Bahraini counterpart, is committed to applying the highest standards of safety, security, and operational quality. This commitment, the Minister pointed out, is intended to ensure passengers enjoy a comfortable and safe travel experience while simultaneously enhancing the efficiency of maritime transport services between the two nations. He lauded Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, along with all relevant entities in both countries, for their efforts in bringing this vital project to completion. MoT Undersecretary Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Ibrahim al-Maadid said the Qatar–Bahrain maritime link embodies the two nations’ shared understanding that transportation is a key driver for sustainable development. “The inauguration of this new maritime route goes beyond facilitating passenger transport and expanding mobility options; it represents a qualitative step toward creating a stimulating platform for diverse economic, tourism, and service activities—generating tangible benefits across multiple sectors,” he said.

The sixth edition of Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest and Exhibition returns to Medina Centrale, The Pearl Island, from November 19-23 in its 6th edition, showcasing an array of rare vintage vehicles from across the GCC region, the Gulf Qatari Classic Cars Association ( GQCCA ) has announced.Under the honourary patronage of HE Qatar Museums (QM) chairperson Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the event marks its regional significance through its collaboration with the International Federation of Historic Vehicles (Fiva).Speaking at the press conference yesterday, the association’s board member and general secretary, Eng Abdul Latif Ali al-Yafei, said some 71 out of the 180 registered cars have been selected to compete for 20 prizes, judged by a panel, including international experts and compliant with Fiva standards.**media[377355]**Al-Yafei noted that the event’s 2025 edition will see a record expansion in area and participation, offering cash and in-kind prizes to heighten competition and excitement. It is also expected to bring together an elite section of luxury classic car owners from Qatar and GCC countries.According to the organisers, 15 of the prizes will be distributed to the top three winners in each of the five age-based categories: Pre-1947, 1948–1959, 1960–1970, 1971–1981, and 1982–1995.The remaining five will be presented as Excellence Awards, recognizing the Best Exceptional Luxury Car, Most Iconic and Distinguished Car, Best Preserved Original Car, Best Preserved Qatari Heritage Car, and Best Car in Show.“This exceptional edition will feature distinguished participation from GCC countries, showcasing an exquisite collection of luxury classic cars representing various historical eras. It reflects the regional prestige that this event has achieved over the years,” al-Yafei said, thanking their partners and sponsors “whose generous support has been instrumental in organizing this exhibition and similar events that celebrate Qatar’s classic car heritage”.“Such support reinforces the synergy between the private sector and the community in elevating Qatar’s tourism and cultural landscape. The event aims to inspire classic car owners, especially youth, to preserve, restore, and celebrate the timeless artistry of these vehicles, ensuring that Qatar remains a hub for automotive heritage and innovation,” he stressed.The Association partnered with leading organisations, including United Development Company (UDC), Social and Sports Activities Support Fund (Daam), Qatar Museums, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, and Alfardan Automobiles Group, and Alfardan Hospitality, among others.Six judges, four international experts with extensive experience in classic car evaluation and two from Qatar who have served in four previous editions form part of the jury.Mohammed Zaidan al-Zaidan, deputy CEO for Operations at QM, said Qatar Auto Museum will take part in the event, showcasing one vehicle as a symbolic presence, without competing, joining the judging committee.QM, he added, will organize an educational programme designed to introduce students to classic cars as cultural and artistic artifacts combining engineering, design, and heritage.Mishaal al-Jaber, director of HR and Administrative Services at UDC, said: “At UDC, we believe such events foster community engagement and revive heritage in a modern form that reflects authenticity and refined taste.”Hassan Yousef al-Obaidli, director of Programmes at Daam, said: “Our continuous sponsorship of the event for the fourth time stems from our commitment to support activities that strengthen Qatar’s cultural and social identity and highlight its role as a distinctive destination for unique events.”Alfardan Automobiles’ chief marketing officer Hussein Omar Alfardan said: “Alfardan Automobiles is proud to serve as a main sponsor for this prestigious event, reinforcing our strategic vision to support Qatar’s tourism and economic sectors.“In line with our commitment to the classic car community, we have launched the BMW Classic Car Club, the first of its kind in the Middle East, offering enthusiasts exclusive opportunities to preserve and enjoy their automotive heritage.”Alfardan Hospitality COO Wissam Suleiman added: “Our partnership reflects our dedication to supporting national events that enhance Qatar’s global image as a hub of luxury, innovation, and cultural sophistication.”

Emerging Qatari artist Moza al-Marri has brought the warmth of both Qatari and Japanese traditions onto one canvas, and in doing so, earned first prize in the 2025 Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest.Her winning piece, titled "Qahwa to Ocha - Coffee and Tea,” celebrates the shared cultural essence of hospitality, the gesture of offering a drink, whether Arabic coffee or Japanese tea, as a universal language of respect and connection.“It’s not just colours and lines. Art is a message you send to the world. I wanted to show that despite our distance, Qatar and Japan share deep similarities, in how we welcome people, how we sit together, even in our architecture and manners,” al-Marri told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the awarding ceremony at the Japanese embassy in Doha recently.Her research-driven approach reflects her belief that meaningful art begins with understanding.“You need to research, to brainstorm, to understand the idea before applying it,” she said, noting that both cultures value hospitality, gratitude, and harmony.Asked why Japanese culture, particularly anime and manga, which is gaining popularity among Qatari youth, al-Marri described it as part of a broader curiosity and cultural openness.“It’s something new, something different. People here love discovering new art forms and feeling they belong to something. The anime community in Qatar is growing and it brings people together, especially the youth,” she said.Al-Marri noted that what was once a niche interest has blossomed into a thriving subculture: “Years ago, anime wasn’t well-known here. Now, families support their children’s interests in it, and that’s beautiful to see.She added that Qatar is even developing its own anime productions, and described it as “a promising future.”For al-Marri, initiatives like the Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest go beyond art competitions, they are cultural dialogues.“You need to think of the other side. When I worked on my illustration, I thought, what if a Japanese person saw this? It would help them understand us better and the same goes for us understanding them. It’s a two-way message,” she said.Her reflections echo the contest’s broader mission: to foster understanding, empathy, and collaboration between Qatar and Japan through creativity.Al-Marri termed such experience as “wholesome” and deeply rewarding, saying: “I had to set aside a lot in my life to focus on this piece, but it was worth it. Seeing how well the contest was organised, how much effort the embassy and team put into it, it shows how much they care.”She hopes future editions will draw even more participation, stressing that “there’s so much talent here in Qatar, and next time, I want to see thousands joining.”Al-Marri’s growing portfolio also includes her contribution to the “For Palestine” student art exhibition at Multaqa Art Gallery in 2023, another proof to her drive to use art as a form of empathy, advocacy, and connection.

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art opened “Resolutions: Celebrating 15 years of Mathaf Exhibition” and “we refuse_d” to the public Friday, honouring its roots in Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali al-Thani’s foundational collection and confronting the struggles of artists who face censorship and displacement.“Resolutions”, on view until August 8, 2026, explores the institution’s journey, showcasing four areas that cover its origins and impact on the region.The section “Infrastructure: Traces of a Legacy”, curated by Fatima Mostafawi, examines the museum as a complex case study rooted in the vision of artist and collector Sheikh Hassan.It details how Doha emerged as an artistic hub during the political turmoil of the 1990s and includes archival materials like letters, photographs, and video interviews that capture Sheikh Hassan’s role as both fellow artist and patron.The exhibition continues its self-examination with “Mathaf as Institutional Memory: An Exhibition History”, curated by Hadeel al-Kohaji, which chronicles the “kaleidoscopic range” of exhibitions the museum has hosted.This section utilises an elaborate timeline and backstage documents to foster a sense of institutional memory, valuing the museum’s publications, graphic design, and international partnerships.“Resolution” broadens its scope to the regional impact of art, featuring “Education: Art as Knowledge Creation”, curated by Noora Abdulmajeed.This underscores the foundational role of art education in cultivating revolutionary possibilities and knowledge circulation within the Arab world.“Representation and the Writing of History”, curated by Arthur Debsi, spotlights how artists in West Asia and North Africa used a shared visual language in the post-independence era to define a Pan-Arab ideology and continuous resistance, especially in relation to the occupation of Palestine.Addressing contemporary issues, “we refuse_d” exhibition, curated by Nadia Radwan and Vasif Kortun, brings together 15 artists whose practices explore refusal, endurance, and action.On view until February 9, 2026, this exhibition asks critical questions about how to persist, resist, and create under conditions of silencing, censorship, and displacement.Speaking to the media, Kortun said: “To see other people’s misery it’s not what we really wanted to do and we kind of turned the idea of refusal around its head... we know of the concrete cases of cancelations but what we don’t know is the untold, or unwritten or unknowable history of refusals and cancellations.”Among the highlights of this exhibition are Abdul Hay Mosallam Zarara’s *Untitled, from the Mahmoud Darwish series (2008), the newly commissioned installation *Resonance (2025) by Majd Abdel Hamid, Samia Halaby’s *Six Golden Heroes (2021), and Taysir Batniji’s early work *Untitled (1997).

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is celebrating its 15th anniversary with the launch of two major exhibitions designed to explore the institution’s history, the origins of its foundational collection, and its role in engaging with contemporary political and social challenges. Speaking to reporters at the press preview yesterday (October 30), Mathaf director Zeina Arida said the two exhibitions share a strong common thread: telling “stories of friendship, solidarity,” and offering “a very good idea of the journey that led to Mathaf as a major museum for modern and contemporary art in the world”. **media[375281]** She noted that Mathaf first opened its doors in December 2010 in its current building, a repurposed school located in Doha’s Education City. The museum is the result of a collaboration between Qatar Museums (QM) and Qatar Foundation, driven by the vision of Qatari artist Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali al-Thani, also a collector, researcher, and educator in the field of modern art from the Arab World. The ‘Resolutions: Celebrating 15 years of Mathaf’ exhibition, on view from today (October 31) to August 8, 2026, examines Mathaf's foundation. It revisits the museum’s primary vision through a display of its permanent collection, exploring four defining areas: Sheikh Hassan’s pioneering efforts; the museum’s expansive exhibition history; its engagement with knowledge circulation in the Arab world; and its response to defining Arab identity in the post-independence era. **media[375282]** Arida said the collection focuses heavily on the “network of solidarity” established by Sheikh Hassan, who started collecting at a young age. This included significant support for artistic production in the 1990s. Before the official museum project began, she noted that Sheikh Hassan invited artists from Iraq following the Gulf War to come to Doha, an effort to support their creative output, stories which are showcased in the exhibition’s first galleries alongside archival material. Curators of the show aim to explore the legacy of Mathaf by showcasing the evolution of its research practices and its history of collaborations. According to Qatar Museums, the anniversary exhibition seeks to revive institutional memory while fostering decolonial discussions surrounding the visual identity of the Arab world in a global context. Another anniversary exhibition, ‘we refuse_d’, shifts focus to contemporary practice, inviting artists to explore the tensions between resilience and action in response to modern political and social challenges. Curated by Nadia Radwan and Vasif Kortun, Arida noted that ‘we refuse_d’ brings together 15 multi-generational artists whose practices probe refusal, endurance, and action. The artists ask what it means to persist, resist, and create under conditions of silencing, censorship, and displacement. The artists are: Taysir Batniji, DAAR (Sandi Hilal and Alessandro Petti), Barış Doğrusöz, Samia Halaby, Majd Abdel Hamid, Emily Jacir, Jumana Manna, Walid Raad, Khalil Rabah, Yasmine Eid Sabbagh, Nour Shantout, Suha Shoman, Dima Srouji, Oraib Toukan, Abdul Hay Mosallam Zarara. Arida said the concept for ‘we refuse_d’ was born from reflecting on the museum’s history, citing Mathaf’s “stunning groundbreaking contemporary art exhibition” that marked its opening in 2010, titled ‘Told, Untold, Retold’. Featuring commissioned works from 23 artists, this exhibition marked a significant conceptual departure, offering a fresh perspective on art and the world. Arida said Resolutions and ‘we refuse_d’ are part of the Mathaf’s ongoing mission to tell the stories behind the institution and its celebrated collection.