Author

Doha’s Ramadan shopping scene is thriving with bazaars across the city offering an array of goods, from handmade crafts and traditional attire to locally-sourced produce and other essential products.The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park becomes a lively hub once again with its weekend bazaar, set to take place from March 20-23.Located within the MIA Park’s Zone 2, it provides shoppers that chance to discover unique treasures from local entrepreneurs, including handcrafted items, original artwork, and stylish fashions, all against the backdrop of stunning waterfront views.The Pearl Island Ramadan Bazaar, in its third edition and running until April 5, continues to attract crowds at 2-5 La Croisette, Porto Arabia.Featuring more than 35 local and international exhibitors, the bazaar transforms the waterfront into a one-of-a-kind marketplace for traditional attire, handcrafted goods, luxurious perfumes, unique gifts, and authentic Ramadan delicacies.Open from 8pm to midnight, with extended hours until 1am on weekends, this bazaar offers an exceptional experience for retail and entertainment enthusiasts.A Ramadan and Eid Shopping Exhibition is set to be held from March 16-29 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).The Ramadan at Torba Farmers Market at Education City, continuing until March 29, highlights traditional craftsmanship, Arabic cuisine, and sweet treats in a lively setting.Lusail Boulevard has embraced the spirit of Ramadan with special Iftar offers, live performances, and nighttime shopping.The festivities, which runs until the last day of Ramadan, offer an enchanting atmosphere with beautifully lit streets, roaming characters, and traditional games for children.For those seeking locally-sourced agricultural products, the 10th edition of the Mahaseel Festival at Katara Cultural Village is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7pm to midnight until April 3.Organised in collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality, the festival offers high-quality products at competitive prices.Many souqs across Qatar are joining in the festive spirit, showcasing a wide range of offerings with discounts and special prices, providing shoppers with even more opportunities to find the perfect Ramadan and Eid essentials.

Various Garangao celebrations are set to take place across Qatar from Thursday, featuring an array of activities from traditional sweets distribution and cultural performances to modern workshops and festive events.Kicking off the festivities, the Doha Fire Station: Artists in Residence is hosting a Garangao Night event Thursday, featuring a children’s best dress contest, tote bag painting, henna art, puppet and bubble shows, and distribution of sweets. To accommodate crowds, organisers announced that overflow parking will be available at Al Bidda Park.The Qatar National Library will also be celebrating Garangao with a variety of cultural and art activities Thursday.The celebrations will continue Friday and Saturday with a host of events across Doha, including Dadu X Baladna: Garangao at Frjan Dadu, for children under 12 at Dadu Gardens.Registration is required for this unique experience, where Dadu Gardens will be transformed into a traditional Freej, allowing children to relive the joy of knocking on doors, singing Garangao songs, and collecting sweet treats.Msheireb Downtown Doha will also host a two-day Garangao celebration on Friday-Saturday. On Friday, tram tours distributing Garangao sweets will traverse the city, accompanied by traditional processions with drumming through residential areas. Children in traditional attire will also perform cultural songs throughout Msheireb Downtown Doha.The main event on Saturday at Hosh Msheireb, will feature a Garangao Fashion Show showcasing traditional Qatari clothing, game stations with classic activities, storytelling sessions, and a 360-degree photo experience, all supporting charitable initiatives with Qatar Charity.Old Doha Port’s Mina District will host a family-friendly Garangao Night on Friday from 6pm to 11pm. Children can partake in the cherished tradition of collecting sweets while visitors enjoy live performances and cultural activities that honour Qatari heritage.Garangao events will be held in the Eastern Square of Souq Waqif on Friday from 8pm.Major malls across Doha will also host Ramadan Garangao celebrations starting Friday. Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal is hosting the Razji event until Friday, offering a mix of past and present with competitions for children, entertainment shows, and workshops, including Garangao celebrations. Admission is free, and events run from 7.30pm to 12am.Torba Market at Lusail Boulevard will host its Garangao Night on Friday from 8pm to 1am, while The Pearl Qatar & Gewan Island will hold their Garangao event on Saturday.For those seeking a more artistic experience, “Under the Stars: Ramadan Night at Mathaf” is taking place Thursday, from 8pm to 10pm at the Mathaf Garden. The event offers a variety of hands-on workshops, including a batoola sticker design activity, pottery, tote bag creations, action model drawing, and a henna station. Traditional games, food stations, and school cultural performances will also be featured.

Devji Aurum, a distinguished name in fine jewellery, is showcasing its Ruhi Collection 2025 at Alfardan Jewellery in Doha, offering a glimpse of modern luxury and timeless heritage.The unveiling on Sunday marked the second edition of Ruhi Week in Qatar, running until March 13 at Doha Festival City, and celebrates the brand’s 75 years of outstanding presence in the region.Speaking to *Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event, brand designer Dev M Sagar highlighted Devji Aurum's appeal and legacy, as well as the collection’s craftsmanship and designs.“One of my grandfather’s last wishes is to create something that is completely limited edition, one-of-a-kind, made with precious metals, gemstones, precious pearls, all natural pearls, and the unique touch that we add in each of the designs itself,” he said.The design and creation process for each piece takes 12-18 months, Sagar said, highlighting the extensive research and development involved in ensuring the highest quality and exclusivity.About the challenge of balancing tradition with contemporary trends, he said that Devji Aurum has always been open to new adaptations, citing how the brand created its designs to cater to a younger generation.“For example, today, the modern generation likes to layer. We were specialising in bigger pieces ... what we did is we broke down those bigger pieces into smaller ones so that the younger generation can layer up or layer down as per their wardrobe, as for their choice, what they want to wear,” Sagar recalled.He said that they experimented with various new materials and continuously introduced new manufacturing techniques to remain relevant.He also pointed to the brand’s intricate manufacturing processes as a deterrent to copycat designs, ensuring the continued originality of Devji Aurum creations.According to Sagar, Qatar was chosen as a key location for Ruhi Week due to the longstanding support from Qatari customers.“We have received love from Qatar and its people from a very, very long time,” he stated.Sagar said that many patrons visiting their Bahrain and Dubai locations had urged them to open a boutique in Qatar.He also noted the aligned vision between the Devji family and Hussain Alfardan in continuing a legacy that has resonated for generations, and underscored the 40-year partnership with Hussain Alfardan and the Alfardan family.“Even before we had our retail presence over here, we made a lot of limited edition pieces for him, for his collection,” Sagar said. “So it's been a long, long time that started from my grandfather’s time, that came to my dad, and now it is between me and Ali (Alfardan) and the whole Alfardan family as well.”Devji Aurum celebrated the opening of its first boutique in Doha last year, a significant milestone in its 75-year history, which began in Bahrain and later expanded across the Middle East.This achievement is the result of a long-standing partnership with the prestigious Alfardan Group.

The Tajheezat Shaban & Ramadan Trade Fair at Katara Cultural Village has become a one-stop destination for shoppers, as it is a vibrant marketplace filled with fashion, home décor, and culinary delights. The free-entry event at Katara’s south parking, running until March 12, draws crowds from across Qatar and the other GCC countries. The fair is open from 10am to 10pm, Saturday through Thursday, and from 3pm to 10pm on Fridays. Clothes are among the bestsellers, especially abayas and other modest apparel, giving eager shoppers to find the right outfits for Ramadan gatherings and celebrations. Accessories are also proving popular, with a diverse range of shoes, socks, jewellery, and bags available in various designs and styles. Beyond fashion, the fair presents a selection of home decor items. High-quality carpets and unique decorative pieces are a major draw, reflecting a desire to refresh and beautify homes. Adding to the allure, several shops showcasing beautifully-designed sandals for women are attracting significant attention. A tempting array of food items, both local and international, is also a major highlight. Sweets, pickled products, dates, cakes, and pastries abound, offering customers a plethora of choices for their Ramadan tables. Spices and nuts, including almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are also readily available, catering to those planning traditional Ramadan meals.

The 10th edition of Mahaseel Festival at Katara Cultural Village continues to draw a large number of shoppers eager to purchase high-quality, locally-sourced agricultural products at competitive prices.Open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7pm to midnight until April 3, the festival at Katara’s southern area is organised in collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality.“The festival has been incredibly popular since opening day. Here, we offer premium fresh produce from local farms at reasonable prices. We even offer discounts for bulk orders,” said a vegetable vendor.Participating companies showcase an array of agricultural crops and dairy products, from fresh vegetables and fruits to meat, local dates, honey, poultry, and dairy products.Popular items at the festival include fresh produce such as cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, corn, and a variety of green leafy vegetables. Free-range eggs, various animal meats, honey, and quail eggs are also proving to be top sellers.Qatar resident Aisha, a regular visitor to Mahaseel, lauded the organisation of the event, saying: “I buy my vegetables here because it offers great value for money and allows me to save on food expenses. My family and I also enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the festival and the opportunity to explore Katara on the weekends while the weather is pleasant”.The festival also features a dedicated section offering home-cooked food and sweets. Green thumbs are also catered to, with a wide selection of indoor and outdoor ornamental plants and flowers available for purchase from various farms and plant nurseries.Organisers underlined the importance of holding an event like Mahaseel, which aims to support domestic agricultural production and contribute to Qatar’s food security. In addition, it also seeks to provide a unique and enriching experience for visitors while preserving the traditional market ambiance.The festival also continues to witness an increasing participation of Qatari farms, apiaries, and national food companies, highlighting its effectiveness as a marketing platform for showcasing and selling locally produced fresh goods and products.

Ramadan nights come alive with culture as Qatar Museums (QM) extends hours, offering evening access to a number of soon-to-conclude exhibitions at various locations in Doha.From immersive artistic journeys to explorations of history and heritage, many noteworthy exhibitions are nearing their closing dates, making this Ramadan the ideal time to catch them before they close.“The Voyager is the Narrator II” exhibition at Fire Station (Gallery 4), open until March 25, showcases the work of artists who participated in the Fire Station’s prestigious New York and Paris Residency programmes in 2024.Through diverse artistic mediums, Saida al-Bader, Muneera al-Buainian, Fouz Saif, Ghada al-Kuwari, and Sheikha al-Khulaifi narrate their unique experiences of living and creating in these iconic cities. 'Splendours of the Atlas: A Voyage Through Morocco’s Heritage' will be on view until March 8 at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). As part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, this major exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the multifaceted heritage of Islamic Morocco.Featuring more than 200 objects, including artefacts, jewellery, and photographs, the exhibition reveals the forces that have shaped Morocco’s unique identity. It provides a chance for visitors to view loans from Moroccan institutions that have never been shown before in Qatar, alongside previously unseen works from QM’s own collections.'The Race Is On' at 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, on view until April 1, commemorates Qatar’s motorsport history. Marking a new era for Formula 1 in the country, this thrilling exhibition is presented in collaboration with the UK’s Silverstone Museum and the future Qatar Auto Museum. It offers an opportunity to explore Qatar’s unique racing journey from the first Qatar Motor Rally in 1975 to last year’s successful Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix.Visitors can learn about pioneering drivers, world champions, and Qatar’s growing influence in the world of international motorsports. Mal Lawal 4 at Msheireb Sahat Al Nakhel Unit X04 will run until April 10, inviting local, regional, and international collectors to exhibit works from their personal collections and share their stories with the public. This edition focuses on the 1990s, exploring the history of gaming and the rise of home game consoles.In addition to these exhibitions, Qatar Museums is hosting a range of engaging Ramadan events, including the immersive Ramadan Escape Room at the Museum of Islamic Art, the community-driven 321 Ramadan Walking Challenge at the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, and family-friendly activities like 'Ramadan Stories for Bedtime' at MIA.Throughout Ramadan, all QM venues will be open Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 2pm and 8pm to 12am; and on Fridays from 8pm to 12am. This expanded schedule allows visitors to explore exhibitions, galleries, gift shops, and restaurants in the tranquility of the evening.

Qatar is set to highlight its vision for “Bridging Cultures, Shaping Futures” at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, joining fellow GCC nations and over 150 countries in a six-month showcase of innovation, cultural exchange, and future-oriented initiatives.The Expo, themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” will take place from April 13 to October 13 at Yumeshima Island, aiming to foster connections and address global challenges.Other GCC participants include Kuwait with its “Visionary Lighthouse” theme, Oman centering on “Earth, Water and Humanity”, and Saudi Arabia focusing on “Together For A Better Future”.Apart from the participating countries, Japanese Ambassador Naoto Hisajima said the Expo will also host nine international organisations and will offer visitors a glimpse into cutting-edge technologies, services, and systems that anticipate the future.Organisers hope the Expo will serve as a platform for the exchange of diverse values, encouraging new connections and creations that can help overcome global challenges and safeguard human life.The Expo will feature “Signature Pavillions” led by prominent figures in various fields, providing visitors with opportunities to explore and update their understanding of life.Some of the highlights include “Earth Mart: Cycle of Lives” by Koyama Kundo, focusing on food and global resources, and the “Playground of Life: Jellyfish Pavillion” by Nakajima Sachiko, aiming to transform learning and creation.Hisajima anticipates strong participation from the Middle East, particularly Qatar, and a high number of visitors from the region. Japan has seen a surge in visitors from Qatar in recent years, according to Japan’s Immigration Control Statistics, Ministry of Justice.After a dip during the pandemic in 2022 (334 persons), Qatari nationals visiting Japan for short-term stays rebounded to 3,239 in 2023, marking an approximate 30% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019 (2,495 persons). Visa issuances to non-Qataris travelling to Japan have also seen an increase.Qatar also witnessed increased interest from Japanese nationals: while numbers peaked at 22,545 in 2022, likely due to the World Cup, 2024 saw a notable increase to 17,188 visitors, up from 13,020 in 2023.Hisajima underlined the strengthening ties between Qatar and Japan, citing increased air links as a key factor: “Last year, Japan Airlines launched a direct flight between Tokyo and Doha, while Qatar Airways resumed direct flights between Osaka and Doha.He noted an agreement between aeronautical authorities to expand entry points into Japan and increase the number of airports where cargo flights from Qatar can operate. Qatar Airways is expected to double its flights to Tokyo within the year.“These connections are great for boosting tourism and enhancing people-to-people exchanges,” Hisajima said.To further promote the Expo, organisers introduced "Myaku-Myaku," the event’s official character – a mysterious creature representing continuous growth and the fusion of cells and water. This transformable character embodies endless possibilities and symbolises the enduring aspects of humanity.

Doha is set to welcome Ramadan with a diverse and engaging calendar of events, from traditional celebrations to sporting tournaments and cultural exhibitions.Visit Qatar posted a packed schedule designed to immerse residents and visitors in the country in the spirit of Ramadan, blending tradition, community, and entertainment.Old Doha Port will be among the major venues of various activities throughout Ramadan. The popular Throwback Food Festival returns Saturday, featuring a bigger celebration of Qatari heritage and culinary delights. The festival aims to connect the past and present, offering an immersive experience for all ages.Adding to the traditional atmosphere at the Port, cherished traditions such as the Ramadan Cannon and the strolls of Musahar Al Mina every night, which remind visitors of Suhoor, will be revived. As Ramadan draws to a close, Old Doha Port will host Wada’a Ramadan, a four-night farewell celebration featuring traditional performances to mark the end of the holy month.Sporting enthusiasts can look forward to the Old Doha Port Ekbes Beach Volleyball Championship, taking place from March 6-14.Aside from Old Doha Port, the festivities extend across the city such as the Ramadan in Hosh Msheireb, commencing on the first day of Ramadan. It offers an immersive experience inspired by traditional Qatari family gatherings in a heritage house courtyard. The event will run from 8pm to 1am.Souq Waqif will host the first Asian Nuts and Dried Fruits Exhibition from Saturday to March 10, located at the Eastern Square between 7.30pm and 12midnight. Organisers said this exhibition will showcase a wide selection of high-quality nuts and dried fruits sourced directly from their origin.Shopping and cultural experiences await at The Pearl Ramadan Bazaar, returning for its third edition at The Pearl Island from Saturday to April 5, between 8pm and 1am, and located at 2-5 La Croisette, Porto Arabia. The bazaar presents a blend of shopping, cultural workshops, diverse cuisines, and entertainment, extending its run to include the Eid al-Fitr holidays.For women aged 16 and above, the Ladies’ Night Ramadan Tournament, in collaboration with Qatar Sports for All Federation, kicks off on March 4 at Education City Stadium. Taking place every Tuesday, the event features badminton, football, and volleyball tournaments, offering opportunities to compete, connect, and win prizes.974 Beach will host an exciting volleyball tournament from March 12 to 14, where participants can form teams and compete for prizes.

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing is inadvertently contributing to increased carbon emissions, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for carbon removal technologies, according to an industry expert.“Our increasing usage of computer technology, AI, etc, running all these data centres require a lot of energy and so that has a perspective of who is a large source of emissions from an industrial standpoint,” Ebb Carbon CFO Jeff Kennedy said at a Web Summit Qatar session on Wednesday.The talk pointed to users’ energy consumption, driven by AI and supercomputers, which is becoming increasingly power-intensive. This, he said, is shifting the landscape of major polluters from traditional industries to the tech sector.Kennedy said advancements in technology contribute to increased carbon emissions, potentially bringing humanity “back to square one” in the fight against climate change.However, he said that he views this challenge as a huge opportunity for innovative carbon removal solutions like Ebb Carbon’s ocean alkalinity enhancement technology.“Those of us that are in the sustainable industry look at that challenge as an opportunity,” Kennedy said. He cited UAE’s desalination industry as an example, estimating that translating it into carbon removal represents a $20bn opportunity.Kennedy suggested that a sustainable future and reduced CO2 impact ca be achieved through partnerships with existing water processing companies.He reiterated that the core of Ebb Carbon’s technology lies in its partnership with the ocean, the world’s largest carbon sink: “There are many different approaches out there. The ocean is the biggest kind of ally in mitigating climate change because today, it stores 60 times more carbon than what exists in the atmosphere”.He highlighted that Ebb Carbon’s modular system, inspired by the scaling success of the solar industry, offers a cost-effective and replicable approach to large-scale carbon removal.About the accessibility of carbon removal technologies, Kennedy drew a parallel between Ebb Carbon’s approach and the evolution of solar power. Just as the unit cost of solar panels has drastically decreased over the past few decades, his Ebb Carbon is focused on building modular units that can be replicated at scale to achieve low-cost carbon removal.

The Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region holds untapped potential to lead the fight against climate change, according to Ebb Carbon CFO Jeff Kennedy. “Our mission as a company is to capture billions of tonnes of CO2 every year, and the desalination industry in the Mena region allows us to achieve that mission,” he said, highlighting the key role of these facilities in large-scale carbon removal. Kennedy, in conversation with Al Jazeera's senior correspondent Osama bin Javaid, was speaking at a Web Summit Qatar 2025 session Wednesday themed ‘How to innovate out of the climate crisis’. During the talk, he presented Ebb Carbon as a prime example of how businesses can lead climate action through innovative technologies and strategic partnerships. He said that the company’s technology uses ocean alkalinity enhancement to take advantage of its vast size to store carbon. Kennedy explained that Ebb Carbon utilises electric dialysis to separate seawater into different streams, making energy a key factor in the cost-effectiveness of carbon removal. “Locating with desalination partners that are today processing seawater... but also access to cheap and low carbon energy is a critical enabler for achieving our mission,” he added. The talk also explored the dual approach to climate action, which involve reducing carbon emissions and capturing existing CO2 from the atmosphere. Kennedy recognised the rapid growth in decarbonising energy production and electrifying transportation but stressed the importance of addressing legacy CO2 through carbon capture. He noted that the carbon capture industry presents a trillion-dollar opportunity, attracting a diverse range of startups with innovative solutions. About which regions were leading the charge towards a sustainable future, Kennedy said the MENA region plays a pivotal role in the future of climate solutions, saying: “Honestly, I think where people should be looking at is here in the Mena region”. About the challenges faced by companies in the carbon sequestration space, he said achieving billion-tonne-per-year removal targets needs significant capital expenditure. Drawing on his extensive experience in raising capital for utility-scale power plants, Kennedy underlined the importance of establishing bankable technology that can attract project finance, which he sees as the “key enabler” for scaling carbon capture efforts. Kennedy urged industry experts, policymakers, and young entrepreneurs to recognise the importance of carbon removal as a critical element of mitigating climate change.

Visit Qatar has signed a memorandum of understanding with Microsoft at Web Summit Qatar 2025 on Tuesday aimed at driving digital innovation in tourism.The agreement was signed by Visit Qatar CEO engineer Abdulaziz Ali al-Mawlawi and Microsoft country manager Lana Khalaf, marking the next phase of this collaboration.The MoU will witness the two entities working together to explore the next generation of technologies after the success of Visit Qatar’s GenAI Travel Concierge, fueled by Microsoft Azure and OpenAI 4o and 4o mini.The goal is to further elevate visitor experiences and revolutionise business operations. Visit Qatar’s successful Smart Travel Assistant represents a landmark achievement in digital tourism, combining text, voice, content, a conversational artificial intelligence (AI), mapping, and interactive planning interface into a seamless, user-friendly experience.In a partnership designed to revolutionise tourism, Visit Qatar is collaborating with Microsoft to create a comprehensive technology roadmap. It will integrate smart and digital solutions to significantly improve the visitor experience.Visit Qatar’s commitment to technological innovation and its transformative impact on the traveller experience were recognised in 2024 with three prestigious awards.The platform earned several accolades, including the Microsoft AI Excellence Award for the Visit Qatar GenAI Chatbot Trip Concierge, and two Mena Digital Awards: Gold for Best Application (Mobile/Tablet) and Silver for Best Web Platform.Visit Qatar's GenAI Chatbot Trip Concierge is revolutionising travel planning with its AI-powered capabilities. Accessible on the Visit Qatar website and app, this intelligent travel companion delivers personalised itineraries and valuable insights in over 50 languages, ensuring a seamless and inclusive experience for all travellers.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region’s young, tech-savvy population and rapid pace of innovation make it a prime market for technology growth, according to X (formerly known as Twitter) Mena managing director Antoine Caironi.“A lot of things” set the GCC apart. First one is, the audience, the demographics – young, well educated, high purchasing power – which means this population is quick to adopt new technologies and drive a big impact, so again that is extremely interesting for tech and for X,” Caironi said at a talk with Rishi Iyengar of Foreign Policy Magazine at Web Summit Qatar 2025 yesterday.The session focused on the unique opportunities and challenges facing the GCC’s growing tech landscape, where Caironi shed light on the region’s distinct characteristics. He cited the significance of events such as the Web Summit and noted that they signal the region’s readiness for further technological advancements.“When you say smart cities emerging, when you are saying major global events like Web Summit for example, it is a sign that the region is really ready for more, and if the region is ready for more it is a great opportunity for tech and for X, in particular, again, to drive change, to drive innovation in the region,” Caironi said.About the region’s fast-paced technological development he gion, Caironi stressed the need for companies to keep up, saying: “The speed of change in the tech world is unique. When you combine that with dynamism, in the GCC, like the region is going superfast, we’re seeing new initiatives emerging every single day.“When you combine the two things, the tech brings a challenge, the main challenge is how can you keep (up) with the speed that is required to deliver”.Caironi pointed out that artificial intelligence plays a key role in connecting people and providing valuable tools: “Our job is to bring the options to users in the best way possible. I think when you combine AI and tech, it is actually a way to bring people together, bring the tools to the users to make this connection quite unique through X”.

Japanese ambassador Naoto Hisajima lauded Qatar’s mediation efforts in Gaza as he reiterated Japan’s commitment to intensify diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a two-state solution and lasting peace in the Middle East.“Qatar’s unwavering commitment to peace was clearly demonstrated in its efforts to facilitate the ceasefire agreement in Gaza,” he said, noting that he was impressed with the country’s mediation diplomacy in promoting stability and alleviating human suffering, both in the Middle East and globally.Hisajima was speaking Monday at the 65th birthday celebration of Japan’s Emperor, which also marks the National Day of Japan. The event was attended by Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani, Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Protocol Department director ambassador Ibrahim Fakhroo, along with other dignitaries and guests.Japan, in close co-ordination with relevant countries and international organisations, continues to engage with the international efforts in improving the humanitarian situation, reconstruction, and governance of Gaza, according to the envoy.Hisajima stressed that Japan “will redouble its diplomatic efforts towards achieving a two-state solution and establishing long-term peace and stability in the region”. “In this regard, Japan has initiated the framework called Ceapad: Conference on Co-operation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development since 2013 to support the Palestinian state-building efforts by drawing on resources, knowledge, and experiences of economic development of the East Asian countries,” he said, noting that Japan has also provided approximately $230mn in humanitarian aid and supplies to the Palestinian people in the past year.Hisajima highlighted the growing partnership between Qatar and Japan across various sectors, noting increased trade and investment relations. He cited the visit of Japan’s Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy to Qatar in July 2024 to discuss investment promotion, particularly in startups.“Qatar is a very attractive destination for foreign investment, and Japan too actively opens its doors to foreign business and offers best possible business environment,” he said. “The 14th Meeting of the Improvement of Business Environment and Investment Working Group, held last July, was a key step forward in identifying promising areas for growth.”He underlined the strong defence ties between the two nations, citing the port call of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force destroyer “Murasame” at Doha Port and the first Japan-Qatar Military to Military Dialogue held in Doha in November 2023.Hisajima pointed out that Japan’s Green Transformation initiatives aligns well with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, particularly in the area of clean energy. “By combining our efforts in these areas, I am confident that Japan’s expertise can make meaningful contributions to advancing clean energy in Qatar. In fact, last November an international consortium led by Japanese companies was awarded by Kahramaa a contract to build and operate an independent water power plant in Ras Abu Fontas area.“The new plant is expected to use high-efficiency gas turbines that consume less gas and emit lower levels of CO2 and other pollutants, contributing to Qatar’s stable energy supply and decarbonisation efforts,” the envoy said.According to Hisajima, direct flights between Qatar and Japan have been expanded, with Japan Airlines now flying between Tokyo and Doha and Qatar Airways resuming service between Osaka and Doha.“I understand that the Qatar Airways will double its flights to Tokyo within this year. These connections are great for boosting tourism and enhancing people-to-people exchanges,” the envoy said. The reception also marked the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, which Hisajima described as an unparalleled experience for visitors to experience cutting-edge technologies and systems. The event will bring together 158 countries and regions and nine international organisations for six-months.

Actor, musician and entrepreneur Will Smith offered invaluable insight into navigating the future of business, urging Web Summit Qatar 2025 attendees to build ventures rooted in service and align their values with their work.In a conversation with best-selling author Jay Shetty, Smith shared views gleaned from his experience navigating the entertainment industry and the business world as founder of Westbrook, a venture company dedicated to supporting established and emerging talent across various media platforms.He addressed the challenges of transitioning from acting to film production and entrepreneurship, citing the importance of embracing fear and humility.“You’ll never be rid of fear ... don’t try to not be scared,” Smith said.“It’s terrifying to start a business, to leave a job, to start something else,” he continued. “The relationship with learning how to relax into fear and lean into the unknown, and to not need it to be perfect ... is a really huge part of transitioning.”Smith underlined the need to adopt a “beginner’s mind”, particularly when embarking on new ventures.“Humble down and go back to beginner’s mind, first time you’re learning something new,” he elaborated. “Be a child asking all of the questions ... the worst thing you can do is pretend like you know when you don’t know.”“It is much better to accept not knowing and lean into not knowing,” Smith stressed.About his evolving definition of success, he said that his initial focus on being “number one” has shifted towards a deeper understanding of service and impact.“What I discovered is there’s nothing above seeing something you’ve created, seeing something you’ve done, help another person,” he said, citing the profound impact of films like The Pursuit of Happyness on viewers struggling with adversity.Smith said that integrating a service-oriented mindset into business from the outset is crucial.“Work-life balance is impossible if you don’t align your values,” he said.“It’s about not having one set of values at work and a different set at home,” Smith continued.“You need to understand that everybody’s having a hard time,” he said. “The reason we’re making the business has to be to make life better for all of us.”He offered a set of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, acknowledging the demanding nature of building a successful business.“You have to love it cause you’re gonna be doing it for 19 hours a day for three years just to get it started,” Smith said. “You have to love what you do.”The Hollywood legend also encouraged resilience in the face of setbacks, urging attendees to “get comfortable with things dying” and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.“My experience has been you don’t succeed to the top, you fail to the top, you fail, you fail, you fail, then boom! You get it,” Smith said.In his first-ever visit to Qatar, he described the country as “beautiful and peaceful” and remarked on the distinct “energy of the future” he felt.“I love it here, this is fantastic,” Smith said of Qatar.“As an artist, that is extremely exciting to me, to be in a place that’s bubbling with anticipation of creating a future,” he added. “I salute all of you here in that energy and in that space of creating not just the tomorrow for Qatar and the Middle East, but the future of our planet.”

Qatar is doubling down on its commitment to become the premier regional destination for startups, announcing a “massive deregulation campaign” and boosted funding initiatives at the opening of Web Summit Qatar 2025 Sunday.In his keynote address at the event, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani highlighted Qatar's unique position to foster global innovation.“Here in Qatar we are creating a platform where innovation meets opportunities, and partnerships transform global industries,” he said.“Being a small state like Qatar is similar to being a startup in this exciting digital age,” HE Sheikh Mohammed continued, drawing parallels between Qatar’s size and the agility of a startup. “That is why, at this level, we are focusing on helping startups because they embody the spirit of Qatar.”Like many nations globally, he underscored a nationwide effort aimed at opening the economy to the private sector, cultivating a business-friendly environment supported by a thriving energy sector.HE Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Qatar’s commitment to the $1bn of funds announced last year, managed by the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), aimed at strategic investments in technology, innovation, and global entrepreneurship.“Last year, from this very stage, I announced that the Qatar Investment Authority would form a $1bn fund to ensure that Qatar and the wider region had access to strategic investment focused specifically on technology, innovation and global entrepreneurship, and we delivered,” HE the Prime Minister stressed.The QIA, he pointed out, has already partnered with six leading global investment entities, all of which will establish offices or regional headquarters in Qatar to extend their expertise and investment throughout the Mena (Middle East and North Africa) region.“Over the past year, well over 2,000 companies applied to the startup investment programme from more than 60 countries around the world,” he said.According to HE Sheikh Mohammed, the Qatar government is also expanding its Startup Qatar platform, a centralised resource providing information, support, and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.He said that efforts have yielded tangible results, announcing that “Qatar has jumped 11 positions in the worldwide startup ecosystem ranking, the highest of any country in the top hundred, making us a regional technology hub”.Web Summit founder and chief executive Paddy Cosgrave underlined the enthusiasm for Qatar’s vision, noting a huge turnout for the summit, with more than 25,000 attendees from more than 120 countries around the world.“Impossible also, in my view, to ignore a record breaking 228 Qatari startups exhibiting over the coming days,” he stated. “In my view, these Qatari companies are key part of Qatar’s future, many will spend the coming days meeting with the more than 600 investors who have flown to Web Summit from around the world and search of their next investment.”Cosgrave underlined what he described as an impressive roster of participants at the event, citing Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, IBM, TikTok and Huawei, among others.He noted the presence of a record-breaking 1,520 exhibitors from 90 countries, along with major sovereign wealth funds, leading investment banks, and active venture capital funds.

Scale AI chief executive Alexandr Wang has lauded Qatar’s “incredibly ambitious goal” for artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled government services, following the signing of an agreement to deploy 50 AI-driven use cases across government sectors by 2029. The strategic partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) was announced on the sidelines of the Web Summit Qatar 2025 opening at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre Sunday. Speaking at the event, Wang discussed the transformative potential of AI for the global economy, as he cited the partnership with the MCIT, saying: “We are partnering with the MCIT in Qatar to enable the digital transformation of the Qatar government services in areas like education, healthcare, disaster response ... the goal is to release and launch, and ultimately scale up 50 AI-driven use cases by 2029.” The deal was signed by HE the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali al-Mannai and Wang, marking a significant step in Qatar’s digital transformation journey. The Scale AI chief executive described Qatar’s move as a forward-thinking approach as it envisions its AI advancements potentially serving as a blueprint for other nations worldwide. “I applaud the government here for being so visionary and one who push forward, and in case that is much faster than any other governments,” he said. About potential competition with Chinese AI companies in this endeavour, Wang dismissed the notion, saying that AI technology should inherently reflect the unique cultural nuances of different countries. He said that his organisation collaborates with major AI platforms like OpenAI and Google to ensure that these global models accurately represent cultural variations across regions. This incorporation of cultural differences, he pointed out, is a significant aspect of their work. “Ultimately, AI technology should reflect to a meaningful degree the cultural differences between various countries,” Wang said. He underlined the programme’s potential benefits for Qatar citizens, citing the possibility of “AI tutors for every citizen in Qatar to enable better learning and a more efficient and effective health system”. In a press statement, the MCIT noted that the partnership with Scale AI is part of their ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency within government entities by equipping them with advanced AI-powered tools and solutions. The five-year agreement will focus on driving AI adoption in the government sector, enhancing e-service efficiency, developing the skills of the national workforce, and fostering AI-driven digital innovation. It also aims to support Qatar’s digital transformation strategies, promote sustainable economic growth, and reinforce the country’s global leadership in responsible AI adoption. According to the MCIT, the initial phase of the partnership will prioritise enhancing operational efficiency through AI-powered process optimisation and service improvement, promising a more streamlined and effective government for the citizens of Qatar.

Trade between Qatar and Japan reached $7.7bn in 2024, driven by growing liquefied natural gas (LNG) demand, Japanese ambassador Naoto Hisajima has said. “Trade between Qatar and Japan in 2024 was $6.1bn in exports from Qatar to Japan and $1.6bn in imports from Japan to Qatar. Imports grew significantly in proportion to the growth of automobiles. “As for exports to Japan, it is expected that Japan will need LNG to meet its growing demand for electricity due to the increase in data centres and other factors, and I hope that trade volume will increase in line with Qatar's increased LNG production,” Hisajima told reporters at a press briefing at his residence in Doha recently, on the occasion of the Emperor of Japan’s birthday. He said Qatar and Japan have maintained a robust and long-lasting relationship for more than 50 years, founded on trust and friendship. Japanese companies, he added, have been involved in the large-scale construction of LNG plants in the country since 1990, and Qatar’s consistent supply of LNG and oil has significantly aided Japan’s economic development. Hisajima said that this relationship is poised to expand beyond its traditional energy focus, citing the desire for strengthened co-operation across various sectors, including security, technology, and culture. He cited a strong appetite among Japanese companies for Qatar’s healthcare sector, expressing optimism that upcoming projects utilising Japanese technology would attract more investment. On the other side, the Qatar Investment Authority, he added, is exploring investment possibilities in Japan, with a particular focus on large-scale undertakings such as building semiconductor factories. The envoy underscored the increasing interest in digital transformation and innovation, fostering a growing collaboration between Qatar and Japan. Potential areas of co-operation, he said, include artificial intelligence (AI) and smart city development. Hisajima added that sustainability initiatives offer another promising avenue for partnership: “Japanese companies are showing interest in taking back blue ammonia that Qatar plans to produce. Regarding carbon capture technology, a Japanese company delivered the high-alloy seamless Oil Country Tubular Goods last year for Carbon Capture and Storage applications in the Blue Ammonia production plant construction project led by Qatar Energy. “Japanese companies have also expressed interest in bidding for the capture of CO2 emitted from LNG production, and we hope to be able to participate in the bidding. Japan is also working to commercialise a hydrogen supply chain by 2030, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050”. Hisajima also highlighted the success of a Japanese-led consortium in securing a bid for a new desalination plant (IWPP) project, scheduled for completion in 2029. In addition, he said a revised Japan – Qatar Airways Agreement implemented last April has expanded flight options between the two countries. The envoy disclosed that Doha is preparing to host the third strategic dialogue between Qatar and Japan, building upon the foundation laid by Prime Minister Kishida and His Highness Sheikh Tamim in July 2023. He said the dialogue will focus on strengthening relations in areas like regional development, economic ties, security, and cultural exchange. While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, he added that officials from both countries are actively engaged in planning the agenda and ensuring a fruitful exchange.

The US embassy in Qatar marked the 249th anniversary of American Independence yesterday (February 20) with an array of live performances and activations, highlighting the power of sports in strengthening ties and fostering global co-operation.Themed ‘A Night of Champions,’ the celebration at the Qatar National Convention Centre was attended by HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim al-Mahmoud, HE the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary-General Dr Ahmad bin Hassan al-Hammadi, and Department of Protocol director ambassador HE Ibrahim Fakhro along with around 1,300 guests.Speaking at the event, US ambassador Timmy Davis thanked the Qatar Government and key partners as he underscored the key role of sports diplomacy, drawing parallels between the patience, skill, and teamwork required in both sports and international relations.“Sports icons like Mutaz Barshim with his unforgettable Olympic gold medal high jump have shown us the heights we can reach through perseverance and determination. Nasser al-Attiya’s rally racing victories remind us to value precision and the achievement of goals.“Global sports icons like Muhammad Ali and Mohamed Salah illustrate how sports transcend borders, uniting us in our shared humanity. Qatar’s emergence as a global sports hub hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, F1 races, the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup and other major events, highlighted the dedication of fostering unity through competition,” the envoy said.Davis said, “this same spirit of unity” is further reflected in a Qatar Museums exhibition on sports diplomacy and the history of the Los Angeles Olympic Games, urging people to visit the exhibition as he finds it “uplifting”. Looking ahead to co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico, he cited Qatar’s role in fostering unity as an inspiration.“Diplomacy, much like sports, teaches us the value of perseverance, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. On this ‘Night of Champions’, we honour those champions – in sport and throughout our history – whose dedication and achievements inspire us to push boundaries, reach new heights, and build a brighter future together,” he said.The envoy noted the enduring friendship between the US and Qatar as he underlined the two countries’ shared vision for progress and peace.“This bond serves to make Qatar and the US safer, stronger, and more prosperous. Qatar has been and will continue to be an exceptional partner to the US. His Highness the Amir has been a visionary leader,” he said, spotlighting Qatar’s instrumental role in facilitating the Israel-Hamas ceasefire – a shining example of its unwavering commitment to peace and diplomacy.The event featured live performances by the US Air Force Central Band and the Qatar Music Academy’s Senior Youth Choir. The band, known for its cultural exchanges through music, played a variety of country, pop, rock, and jazz hits, as well as sports-themed selections.“My favourite performances are any that we get to exchange culture, hear the music of different cultures, of different partner nations around the region.“I absolutely love hearing the native, traditional instruments in the Arabian Peninsula, whether that is drums, or a string instrument or any of the million different ones, I love hearing that, that’s always a nice treat when we get to do that,” AFCENT band’s 1st Lt Julian Sconyers told reporters on the sidelines of the event.The celebration also featured the traditional cake-cutting ceremony, while the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum presented a pop-up exhibition. It showcased artifacts from the 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, honouring the past and future of the games as it prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games.