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A stockpile of more than 350 letters and correspondence, dating back to 1975, provided the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) with the intimate and untold story of its founding, highlighted at a major exhibition celebrating the institution’s 50th anniversary.“The biggest discovery (during the research and planning stage) for us who work in the museum were the correspondence, old letters which we found in the storage of our museums,” NMoQ’s Research and Collections deputy director Dr Abdullah Mohammed al-Sulaiti told reporters.He said that when they opened the box and discovered the old, the hidden letters came as a shock, a find that allowed them to piece together the story of the old museum.The exhibition, titled “A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told running until February 7, 2026”, traces the museum’s evolution from its inception in 1975 as the first national museum in the region to its reinvention in 2019 in the iconic structure designed by French architect Jean Nouvel.Such discovery, Dr al-Sulaiti added, offers a raw, firsthand account of the huge logistical and technological challenges faced by the museum’s original architects and curators.“We understand exactly what they are thinking and the difficulties of doing that project at that time,” he said. “There is no Internet, there is no e-mail, there is nothing (of that sort).”“They only have telephone and Telex, it’s a very old machine at that time,” he said, pointing out the contrast with modern communication.Dr al-Sulaiti said that the documents show that early museum staff often had to travel extensively to collect information and objects, highlighting the rigorous dedication required in the pre-digital era.The exhibition begins at Temporary Gallery 13, guiding visitors through the museum’s history from its establishment, an idea initiated in 1972 by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad al-Thani, to its present state.The mission was, and remains, to collect and display the history, traditions, and natural environment of Qatar.The Qatar National Museum officially opened in 1975 within the Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Palace, the restoration of which earned the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1980.Key historical artifacts are on display, including some of the newly discovered correspondence.Highlights include the brass opening piece from the 1975 inauguration, displayed next to a photograph of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa.The exhibition also features contemporary re-creations of beloved features from the original site, such as the famous Earth Dome.According to Qatar Museums, the exhibition weaves together personal stories of individuals who contributed to the museum’s legacy alongside archival photographs that trace its role in chronicling Qatar’s national transformation.The exhibition also showcases the work of artists Shouq al-Mana and Khalifa al-Thani, whose pieces reflect national identity and resilience.Among these is Khalifa al-Thani’s Pearls Don’t Lie on the Sand, which transforms the traditional dhow into a luminous sculpture symbolising discovery.A major feature is Yousef Fakhoor’s installation, Echoes of time, The Four Doors.Using sound, light, and video, the piece unfolds a poetic journey through Qatar’s past, present, and imagined future.Each of the four symbolic doors invites reflection, bridging generations by presenting moments in time, from a young girl’s whispered prayer in 1975 to a vision of Qatar in 2050.

Qatar and Japan continue to chart a course for expanded defense co-operation, aimed at strengthening security ties, addressing key regional security challenges, and maintaining stability and traffic safety across the Indo-Pacific region. The two nations reiterated this shared commitment during the 2nd Japan-Qatar Military-to-Military Dialogue held on September 29 at the Ministry of Defense in Tokyo. The Japanese delegation was led by Hayashi Mitsuko, Director General for International Affairs at the Ministry of Defense; while the Qatari side was headed by Staff Brigadier Nassir bin Ali al-Thani, deputy chief of the International Military Co-operation Authority of the Qatar Armed Forces. Both parties exchanged views on a wide range of topics, including regional and international security issues, the future direction of Qatar-Japan defense co-operation, and ways to enhance defense exchanges. The talks underlined the importance of continued collaboration in ensuring maritime safety and maintaining stability across the Indo-Pacific and the broader Middle East region. The Military-to-Military Dialogue followed a series of high-level engagements between the two nations in recent years. In January 2025, Qatar and Japan held the second Strategic Dialogue at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Tokyo. The meeting was chaired by HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs; and HE Hayashi Yoshimasa, Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. During that session, both countries discussed expanding joint investments in the energy sector, strengthening partnership in cybersecurity and technology, and improving defense relations. They also agreed to promote cultural exchanges, facilitate private-sector investments, and encourage visits by business delegations between the two nations. A key outcome was the agreement to exempt Qatari citizens from entry visas to Japan through a pre-registration system for travelers, marking a milestone in bilateral relations. The deepening defense ties between the two nations was also highlighted by Japan Ministry of Defense official, during a meeting with reporters from Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Türkiye in Tokyo last month. The official stressed the vital importance of the Middle East to Japan’s national interests, noting that the region's stability directly impacts Japan’s energy security due to its reliance on the area for approximately 90% of its crude oil imports. The official underscored Japan’s ongoing efforts to build trust through defense co-operation and high-level exchanges, stressing the importance of freedom of navigation under the vision of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’. The official noted that such joint action includes ensuring safe maritime routes, access to ports, and strengthening mutual understanding between defense authorities. Qatar and Japan’s defense relations have deepened since the signing of a Memorandum on Defense Exchanges in May 2019, during the visit of HE Dr Khalid bin Mohammad al-Attiyah, Qatar’s Minister of State for Defense Affairs, to Japan. This was followed by regular engagements, including a phone conversation between the two defense ministers in October 2019, virtual talks between the Chiefs of Staff in October 2021, the 1st Military-to-Military Talks in November 2023, and ministerial meeting in June 2024. In November 2024, a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel made a port call to Qatar, symbolising growing friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations’ maritime services. Japan maintains similar defense partnerships with several Middle Eastern countries, including Bahrain, Türkiye, and Jordan, as part of its broader policy to promote peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani unveiled the major retrospective “A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told” on Thursday, marking the official kickoff of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)’s 50th-anniversary celebrations across Doha. The celebration featured the recognition of major donors, the prestigious Anniversary Awards Dinner, themed *Recognising Evolution – A Journey from Tradition to Tomorrow, and the “Taste Evolution: Collaboration Dinner”, presented by Qatar Creates. **media[373167]** The opening was attended by QM chief executive Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi and NMoQ director Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Thani, among other dignitaries and guests. “A Nation’s Legacy” chronicles the NMoQ’s journey, from its establishment in 1975 as the region’s first national museum to its reinvention in 2019 as a cutting-edge experiential institution housed within an iconic building designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. **media[373173]** According to the QM, the NMoQ’s 50th-anniversary festivities began on October 22 with a symbolic voyage of the historical dhow Fateh Al Khair. Bearing the museum’s logo, the dhow sailed along the Doha Corniche, serving as a visual narrative of continuity, resilience, and transformation. **media[373169]** The ceremony was enhanced by cultural maritime performances, featuring renowned Qatari singer Munsoor al-Muhannadi, highlighting the museum’s role as a vital bridge between past heritage and future generations. “For half a century, the NMoQ has safeguarded the legacy of our nation and our national treasures while continually developing new means of storytelling through the latest advances in technology,” Sheikh Abdulaziz said in a press statement. **media[373168]** “With ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’, we invite audiences to join us in celebrating the institution’s remarkable record of honouring our heritage while imagining what is to come.” NMoQ Research and Collections deputy director Dr Abdullah Mohammed al-Sulaiti told reporters during the press preview that extensive public programming will form part of the exhibition, aimed at nurturing creativity, learning, and cultural participation across all age groups. Key among these initiatives is “NMoQ Late: Our Heritage, By Young NMoQ”, which aims to empower teenagers by offering creative expression opportunities, after-hours access, and culturally relevant initiatives. This effort seeks to position the museum as a vital “third space”, a welcoming environment where youth can connect, collaborate, develop skills, and build a sense of ownership within the community. The QM added that the NMoQ’s learning and outreach programmes, such as workshops, educational activities, and immersive experiences, will further connect audiences with Qatar’s heritage. Specialised culinary initiatives like collaborations with Chef Noof, Desert Rose, and cooking classes at Jiwan will explore food as a living heritage, demonstrating how traditional practices are preserved, adapted, and celebrated today. These programmes will transform the exhibition from a historical survey into a vibrant, interactive journey celebrating Qatar’s past, present, and future. The QM noted that the anniversary celebrations included a special tribute dedicated to the significant donations that have enriched the QM’s collections and sustained the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. These gifts were highlighted as a reflection of deep civic pride and the shared commitment of individuals, families, and institutions to safeguarding Qatar’s legacy. The celebrations also featured a live musical performance from Dana al-Meer and Hala al-Emadi, who reflected Qatar’s evolving national identity through a lively fusion of traditional Arabic and modern sounds. It concluded with “Taste Evolution: The Collaboration Dinner”, a culinary experience crafted by Chef Noof al-Marri and QC+’s Michelin-starred Chef Jeremy Cheminade, blending authentic Qatari flavours with contemporary techniques.

The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) celebrates a half-century of defining the nation’s cultural identity with the launch of a major retrospective exhibition, ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’. According to Qatar Museums, this landmark survey is designed to blend heritage with innovation, using modern art, historic documents, and immersive installations to illustrate how the institution became a crucial mirror of Qatar’s collective memory and national pride. The exhibition, which offers a comprehensive and chronological exploration of the museum's origin, growth, and evolution, will be on view at the historic Old Palace from October 24 to February 7, 2026. It traces NMoQ’s journey from its visionary founding in 1975 as the first national museum in the region to its bold reinvention in 2019, housed in the iconic, desert rose-inspired structure designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. Speaking to reporters at a press preview yesterday (October 23), Dr Abdullah Mohammed al-Sulaiti, deputy director of Research and Collections at NMoQ, stressed that a primary goal of the exhibition is to highlight the museum’s history, countering the perception that its story began with the unveiling of the new building. “Most of the people thought that the museum is just a new building which is what they see it now... But we want to highlight that this museum is older than 2019; it was built in 1975,” he said, noting that the exhibition dedicates significant attention to the visionaries behind the institution’s earliest days. **media[372592]** Dr al-Sulaiti said ‘A Nation’s Legacy, A People’s Memory: Fifty Years Told’ spotlights the planning developed by the Michael Rice company and focuses on the key moment the museum was officially opened in 1975 by His Highness the late Amir, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad al-Thani. He added that the museum’s original home, the Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Palace, is celebrated as a symbol of Qatar’s foundational commitment to culture and heritage. He said the exhibition highlights key events across the five decades, covering the museum’s closure in 2004 and the 2019 reopening. The curatorial approach masterfully blends historic artifacts with cutting-edge technology to illustrate this evolution. Visitors will encounter archival material such as a plaque commemorating the opening of the Qatar National Museum in 1975, and a historical portrait of Sheikh Khalifa captured on positive slide film. It features recreations of original beloved pieces, such as the Earth Dome, presented with modern interpretations that underscore the continuity of NMoQ’s mission. **media[372593]** The Sheikh Abdulla bin Jassim al-Thani’s Old Palace is transformed into a “living archive” via a multi-channel video installation, creating a compelling “dialogue between memory and modernity” within the historic walls. The survey also embraces contemporary Qatari artists who reflect on national identity and transformation. This includes specific artwork by Shouq Almana and immersive installations by Yousef Fakhroo, whose piece Echoes of Time aims to provide visitors with an experiential journey connecting Qatar’s past, present, and future. Dr al-Sulaiti stressed that the 50-year anniversary represents a pivotal moment for reflection on past achievements, celebration of the museum’s evolution, and anticipation of future cultural innovations that will further elevate Qatar’s standing on the global stage. He added that the survey also underlines the museum’s role in offering audiences of all ages a chance to reflect on Qatar’s identity and heritage.

While traditional culinary capitals often prioritise centuries of specialised tradition, the booming dining scene across the Gulf, particularly in Qatar, is shaping a new global culinary model defined by “radical diversity” and “cosmopolitanism”.This was the assessment of Japanese business strategist Rie Ruqayyah Mihara, a consultant who has successfully navigated the travel, food, and hospitality sectors in Qatar and with prior experience in Pakistan, turning her experience into a blueprint for cultural translation and commercial viability.Mihara told the Gulf Times that the Gulf is not simply importing global trends, but forging new ones through a unique blend of international influence and local adaptability.“If Japanese food culture is characterised by ‘specialisation’, mastering a single path, and the ‘deepening of tradition,’ then I believe the dining scene in the Gulf, including Qatar, is defined by its ‘diversity’ and ‘cosmopolitanism,’ where the cuisines gather,” Mihara stressed.She noted that the Qatari market is distinctively dynamic, flexible, and open, allowing diners to experience the latest global food movements almost instantaneously. Moreover, she said dining is deeply intertwined with social life, emphasising large family and friend gatherings – a key factor for restaurant design and service models.For foreign concepts aiming to succeed in this cosmopolitan environment, Mihara pointed out that success centres on a delicate balance between preserving the soul of the dish and adapting to local preferences.“The absolute prerequisite is to protect the core of the cuisine, the ‘authentic flavour,’ or what I would call the soul of the dish. On that foundation, it is crucial to pay respect to the local culture and preferences and to adapt with flexibility,” she explained.Mihara said this adaptation goes beyond simple Halal compliance, championing a holistic approach that includes engaging with Arab food culture, catering to the diverse tastes of Qatar’s large expatriate population, and integrating local ingredients through “local production for local consumption” initiatives.“Instead of imposing Japanese tastes, I believe that by creating a dialogue and fusion with Qatar’s food culture, we can create a new value that can only be found here,” she added.Mihara points to the rapid maturation of the food market, observing a growing demand for specialised and authentic experiences that move beyond broad categories such as ‘Japanese food’.She sees significant potential for niche concepts that have yet to be introduced, such as specialty tempura restaurants, delicate Japanese sweets, or specific regional cuisines from Japan’s prefectures.Mihara noted that Qatar’s position offers a unique commercial advantage, saying: “While Qatar's population is small, the number of visitors from neighbouring countries increases on weekends. This makes it an ideal country for test marketing to the wider GCC audience”.Mihara’s insights stem from a career rooted in cross-cultural exchange. Having lived and worked in the Islamic world – Pakistan and Qatar – for a decade, her fascination with the region’s energy and commitment to building the future while cherishing tradition led her to convert to Islam last year.Her hands-on experience came from launching and scaling, development a ramen restaurant brand that achieved notable growth in Qatar over a four-year period.

Msheireb Museums celebrated its 10th anniversary Monday, bringing together leading international and regional architects, cultural leaders, and heritage preservation experts to examine a decade of architectural innovation and cultural transformation in Qatar.The event at Bin Jelmood House was marked by two panel discussions and the launch of two new publications that document the museums’ role in shaping Qatar’s contemporary built environment.Led by Msheireb Museums general manager Abdulla al-Naama and attended by senior officials from Msheireb Properties, the conference underlined the museums’ impact on defining a unique modern Qatari architectural identity.A highlight of the celebration was the launch of two publications: ‘Building on Tradition – The New Architectural Language of Qatar’ and ‘Msheireb Museums: Transforming Doha's Heritage Houses.’‘Building on Tradition’ establishes a comprehensive framework for contemporary Qatari architecture through the introduction of the ‘Seven Principles.’ Utilising Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), dubbed as the world’s largest sustainable downtown regeneration as its primary case study, the book demonstrates how timeless architectural wisdom can inform exceptional 21st century urban design.**media[371391]**According to Msheireb Museums, the Seven Principles – Continuity, Individual and Collective, Space and Form, Aspects of the Home, Aspects of the Street, Designing for Climate, and Architectural Language – offer a sophisticated methodology for honouring Qatar’s cultural identity while addressing modern needs through climate-responsive and culturally sensitive design.The second publication, ‘Msheireb Museums: Transforming Doha's Heritage Houses,’ chronicles the meticulous restoration of the four historic houses at the heart of the museums: Radwani House, Mohammed Bin Jassim House, Company House, and Bin Jelmood House. The book documents the unique conservation approach, detailing how these rare examples of traditional Qatari domestic architecture were transformed into powerful, contemporary museological narratives, achieving LEED Gold standards.The event featured two panel discussions exploring the interplay between architectural heritage and future-forward innovation.The first talk, titled ‘The Architectural Alphabet - Crafting Msheireb's Urban Language,’ examined the architecture and urban planning foundational to Msheireb’s development, addressing the necessity of depicting the past while embracing the future and the importance of creating safer urban spaces. The panel included Rosanna Law, Simon Gathercole, and Michael Mossessian, and was moderated by Eng Fatima Mohamed Fawzi, senior manager – Education and Sustainability, Doha Design District.The second discussion, ‘Truth in Translation - Weaving Heritage into the Modern Fabric,’ shines a spotlight on the sensitive process of transforming historic buildings into dynamic storytelling spaces. This panel featured experts John McAslan, Fanos Panayides, and Fatima M Fazwy, and was moderated by Fahad al-Turki.

Two unique exhibitions, on view until October 25 at Fire Station: Artists in Residence, provide an opportunity for Qatar residents and visitors to explore Qatari talent and contemporary innovation. The opening of ‘Threads of Memory’ by Haifa al-Khuzaie and ‘Between Rust and Art’ by Ahmed al-Hamar on September 24 mark the completion of Fire Station’s 2024 Al Ruwad Residency. This programme supports and fosters dialogue between Qatar-based established and emerging artists. The Al Ruwad Residency, launched in 2021, strengthens Fire Station’s role as a hub for artistic exchange. By providing up to two years of time, space, and resources, it connects local artists with mentorship and ensures the institution remains a platform for creativity. **media[370064]** **media[370063]** In Threads of Memory, al-Khuzaie’s artistic practice focuses on reinterpreting Qatari heritage through contemporary forms, examining how traditional motifs carry deep memory and identity. In the featured works, al-Khuzaie presents new mixed media pieces, including handmade ceramics, drawing inspiration directly from patterns and ornamentation found in local fashion, jewellery, and textiles. During her residency, she explored the intricacies of embroidery, engraving, and decorative detail in women’s clothing, allowing their richness of colour and design to inform her compositions. **media[370062]** **media[370061]** Al-Khuzaie’s practice translates traditional elements into sculptural forms that embody both continuity and transformation. By merging these traditional forms with contemporary aesthetics, al-Khuzaie creates a dialogue between past and present that honours cultural heritage while imagining its future possibilities. Also opened on September 24 at Gallery 4, al-Hamar’s ‘Between Rust and Art’ exhibition shifts the focus to materiality, texture, and layering. Al-Hamar works with elements drawn from daily life, reinterpreting mediums such as natural dyes, organic matter, and found objects into minimal artistic compositions. His recurring fascination lies in transformation and process. **media[370060]** **media[370059]** During his residency, al-Hamar focused on deep experimentation, often revisiting the same techniques and materials to uncover new outcomes. His exhibition explores cultural motifs by deliberately inducing rust on iron sheets, a natural process that is subsequently interrupted and reshaped by his intervention.

Doha’s event calendar is hitting a peak in the second half of October, offering residents and visitors in Qatar a diverse and packed schedule of cultural, entertainment, and sporting events. According to Visit Qatar, the festivities begin today, marked by two musical events at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). The highly anticipated Cartoon Orchestra makes its international debut at the Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre. Following massive success in Kuwait, the orchestra, under the artistic direction of Kuwaiti maestro Dr Khaled Nouri, promises a magical concert spanning decades of animated classics. The performance, enriched by cutting-edge visual technology, will revive iconic theme songs and soundtracks from beloved Arabic and international animated works from the 1970s to the present day. On the same evening, Egypt’s best-selling female artist, Angham, will perform at another venue within the QNCC, providing fans with a major contemporary music option. The Qatar Sports For All Federation (QSFA) has announced the start of the SFA Fall Edition Races 2025. Running from today to November 28, the series will take place at Education City MTB Trail and Oxygen Park. Registration is open now via the QSFA app, with the first 50 runners to register for the full series receiving a special discount package, including four unique finisher medals and four race T-shirts. Lusail Winter Wonderland will host several crowd-pulling acts, where highlights include a show featuring Daffy, Flipperachi, and DJ Outlaw on October 23, an Al Akhras Concert on October 24, and a special meet-and-greet with renowned Kuwaiti YouTuber AboFlah on October 24. Additionally, the theatrical play ‘Nora The Drummer’ will run from October 23 to 25 at the Abdulaziz Nasser Theatre. For sports enthusiasts, October offers both high-speed thrills and endurance challenges. The Mena Karting Championship Nations Cup, billed as the biggest karting event in the region, is scheduled for five days of non-stop action at the Lusail International Circuit from October 21-25. The cultural scene shifts into high gear on October 27 with the simultaneous launch of three major exhibitions at M7, Msheireb Downtown Doha. The ‘Art in the Heritage of Berber Poetry’ exhibition will run until January 12, 2026, and offers an inspiring exploration of the politics of patronage and artistic legacies. It celebrates the Berber hairdressing tradition in Morocco, reclaiming the art form which carries tales of memory, beauty, and identity as a vibrant language of self-expression and cultural pride. Also opening on October 27 is ‘Houbara Haven: A Chaumet Tiara Exhibition’. This intimate showcase details the journey behind the Houbara Haven tiara, a poetic tribute to Qatar’s rich hunting traditions, designed by Qatari artist Aisha Alattiya and crafted by Maison Chaumet. The exhibition features sketches and behind-the-scenes footage illustrating the collaboration and celebrating the next generation of visionary designers. Rounding out the M7 openings is ‘FTA: Threads of Impact. Celebrating 7 Years of Fashion Trust Arabia,’ running until January 3, 2026. This extensive exhibition charts the transformative impact of FTA, featuring the work of more than 80 emerging designers from across the MENA region and presenting a multifaceted vision of contemporary Arab fashion. Celebrating Qatari heritage and outdoor life, the Kashta Exhibition 2025 is set to take place from October 28 to November 4 at Sumaisma and Al Dhaayen Youth Centre. The unique event aims to stimulate local trade by showcasing everything from traditional hunting and falcon supplies to modern camping equipment, linking heritage to reality for desert and sea goers.

Spain’s culinary presence in Qatar is rapidly expanding, driven by a sophisticated mechanism for food promotion, according to LuLu Group International director Dr Mohamed Althaf.Speaking to the media at the recent opening of 'Festival of Spain 2025', he highlighted the growth of Spanish products available at LuLu outlets in Qatar, marking a shift from seasonal imports, and becoming a mainstream supplier such as the US, India, and the Philippines, among other countries.The latest addition to the retail giant’s Spanish portfolio includes premium items such as 100% Halal-certified Spanish lamb and Spanish mangoes.“This year I believe the highlight is mostly, other than regular things, there are a lot of things that we bring from Spain,” Dr Althaf said, detailing the new additions, which also include high-quality tuna, fresh vegetables, cheeses, and other dairy products.He pointed out that the success of the Spanish food penetration into the Qatari market is attributed directly to the Spanish diplomatic presence.“I must say that the Spanish embassy has a very, very strong mechanism here to promote their food,” Dr Althaf noted. This mechanism, he added, involves introducing global initiatives such as the Spanish government’s programme, “Eat Spain Drink Spain,” which LuLu is now bringing to the Qatari market.He stressed that consumers must also be reassured about the sourcing process. LuLu, he said, maintains a high degree of traceability, employing teams stationed in Spain who oversee and test products to ensure they meet stringent health standards of Qatar, as well as regulatory and religious requirements, including proper Halal slaughter procedures.Dr Althaf highlighted the cultural significance, noting that Spanish food, particularly its Mediterranean components like olive oil and saffron, is “very close to our region and our culture when it comes to food.”Addressing the challenge of importing premium Spanish goods without high cost, Dr Althaf explained that affordability is achieved through optimal operational practices, not by sacrificing quality.“We believe good food is never expensive, if you source it properly, if you have good logistics to work with, if you maintain your cold chain, you avoid your wastage,” he said.He pointed out that while Spain certainly produces gourmet products, the nation is fundamentally a massive “powerhouse of food production worldwide,” known for high-quality fruits and vegetables, which allows for substantial volume and competitive pricing once logistical efficiency is maximised.He noted that the volume of goods arriving from Spain is now “substantial,” having established itself as a regular feature in LuLu’s supermarkets, rather than just a seasonal offering.Dr Althaf also reiterated LuLu’s commitment to the local market, describing Qatar as a “very steady market”. As the country expands into new areas, he said LuLu plans to increase its local footprint.“We will go logically wherever Qatar population is expanding. We will have outlets, and this year itself, we are planning some sign ups with the new communities,” Dr Althaf added, underscoring the retailer’s strategy to grow alongside the nation’s developing infrastructure and population centres.

The strong bilateral relationship between Spain and Qatar is poised for sustained growth, particularly in the sectors of tourism and gastronomy, according to Spanish ambassador Dr Alvaro Renedo Zalba. Speaking on the sidelines of the recent launch of the “Festival of Spain 2025”, Dr Zalba said cultural affinity and strong air connectivity are driving a mutual exchange of visitors between the two nations. The festival, which showcases Spanish products, will run across all LuLu hypermarkets in Qatar until October 15. The envoy highlighted the already “very high number of Qatari visits to Spain”, noting that direct flights to major destinations, Madrid, Malaga, and Barcelona, significantly aid travel. “We have a very close friendship socially and culturally. Qataris love Spain, Spaniards love Qatar,” Dr Zalba said, adding that the relationship is reciprocal, with Spain also seeing increased tourism to Qatar, particularly during the winter months. He acknowledged major recent events, including the FIFA World Cup 2022, for strengthening Spain’s visibility and appeal in the region. “The World Cup of course did a lot to underscore the popularity and to really disseminate all that Qatar has to offer. A truly fascinating country,” Dr Zalba said. “I do believe that tourism will continue to increase both from Spain to Qatar and from Qatar to Spain.” Apart from travel, he cited Spanish cuisine as a key factor in the nation’s international appeal, expecting a significant increase in the presence of Spanish restaurants in Doha. “I do (expect more restaurants), because it’s truly a cuisine that is deeply appreciated by the Qatari public,” he pointed out. To underline the popularity of Spanish fare, the envoy pointed to a recent culinary event, noting the impact of visiting Spanish talent. “Just today I have welcomed in Doha very prestigious chefs coming from Spain for a very particular event, and the expectation that their visit to Qatar had generated was very significant,” he said. Dr Zalba sees the popularity extending beyond the Qatari market, attributing the success to cultural and historical proximity within the Middle East generally. He stressed that gastronomy acts as a form of “soft power”, saying it is a political science term referring to a country’s international appeal. He estimates that the opportunity to enjoy authentic Spanish food is a major draw for international visitors. “I am convinced that the close to 100 million people that visit Spain annually do so with the enticing perspective of being able to enjoy Spanish cuisine like the one that is being offered to the Qatari public today by LuLu,” he said.

The Argentine Embassy in Doha recently hosted its third edition of ‘Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition’, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange as a key theme driving the relationship between Qatar and Argentina. Speaking to reporters at the event, Argentine ambassador Guillermo L Nicolas underlined the exhibition’s role in setting the stage for the ‘Qatar-Argentina Year of Culture 2025’, which features numerous events in Doha and Buenos Aires. He said the event aims to connect the traditions of both nations, showcasing elements such as intangible cultural heritage and artworks, including paintings created by several diplomats and their wives. Nicolas cited the recent exhibition of Latin-American art at the National Museum of Qatar as a successful precursor, describing it as “the gem of our cultural year.” The exhibition, which concluded on July 19, featured around 170 works by more than 100 pioneering and contemporary Latin American artists, including iconic pieces from Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Wifredo Lam, Fernando Botero, and Antonio Berni. He said that cultural exploration uncovered unexpected common ground, leading them to realise they are “much closer than we believe” through shared aspects like traditional garments, a love for horses, and the importance of family. The envoy pointed out that cultural diplomacy is a main element not only for showcasing national identity but also for improving international relations. He said it serves as the essential foundation for international relations, asserting it is the primary method to foster mutual understanding and to create a network through which political and economic ties can be successfully developed. He noted that despite the vast geographical distance, cultural comparison reveals deep similarities. According to Nicolas, the year-long initiative of Qatar Museums is designed to solidify the bond forged during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which saw an influx of approximately 45,000 Argentinian visitors. “We have an amazing connection between the two peoples during the World Cup,” he recounted, adding that the cultural initiative is “a good opportunity to continue this relation.” The envoy said such initiative aligns with Qatar’s vision of becoming a global cultural hub, an effort he lauded, noting Qatar’s “wonderful position in the cultural world.” He suggested that sports should be viewed as part of cultural tradition, as the Year of Culture facilitates the exchange of artistic expressions, allowing Qatari art to be showcased in Argentina and Argentinian culture to be displayed in Doha. Nicolas added that he sees the 2025 initiative as “just one more milestone” in the already strong political, economic, and trade relationship between the two countries.

Behind Japan’s futuristic Expo showcase lies a deeper goal: turning its domestic pavilions into real-world incubators that would spark breakthroughs in healthcare, digital technology, and green solutions for the future.This strategy is anchored by two distinct pillars – resource circulation and regenerative medicine – each presented in highly interactive and functional exhibition spaces at the Expo 2025 Osaka.According to organisers, the Japan pavilion, themed “Between Lives,” serves as the epicentre of this national strategy. Its architecture, divided into unique Plant, Farm, and Factory zones, symbolises the concept of “circulation,” a principle deeply embedded in Japanese culture and craftsmanship.Masafumi Sugano, deputy commissioner general for Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and director of the Expo’s International Office, told reporters that the pavilion operationalises cyclical resource management by tackling the issue of waste generated on-site.“Within the pavilion, we actually take rubbish, garbage, trash from the Expo site, we decompose it and turn it into clean water, and methane,” Sugano said. “Then we take the algae (developed from methane) and turn it into valuable products.”This functional system, he noted, shows how Japan interprets the circular economy, focusing not just on recycling, but on creating business-viable, productive systems that remain responsible to the global climate.“It shows how we interpret the circular economy in Japan, which is something that I’m sure would be interesting for Qatar,” he added.Sugano said the commitment to circularity extends to the structure itself, pointing out that the wooden panels used in the pavilion’s architecture are designed to be repurposed across Japan once the event concludes.Adding a playful touch to this environmental pledge, the pavilion also features an array of algae – 32 unique types – some represented as popular, adorable Hello Kitty characters, flourishing in a warmly lit “forest of the future”.Complementing the focus on green innovation, the Pasona Natureverse pavilion explores the future of healthcare, highlighting revolutionary regenerative medicine based on Induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPS).iPS technology allows adult cells to be “reprogrammed” back to a pluripotent state, enabling scientists to differentiate them into any required cell type. This breakthrough, discovered by Nobel Laureate Dr Shinya Yamanaka in 2009, forms the basis of two groundbreaking exhibits.Carla Alonso from the Pasona Group presented the iPS Heart, an artificial heart model created by transforming some 200 million skin adult stem cells into beating heart muscle tissue.“What you see here is essentially an artificial model of a heart... beating completely by itself without any electrical impulse,” she said.While the exhibit currently displays only the heart muscle tissue, she said the goal is to use this technology within the next 50 years to completely reproduce whole hearts from a patient’s own cells, significantly reducing the high rate of rejection associated with traditional heart transplants.However, a more immediate application is the iPS Heart Muscle Sheet, which Alonso described as functioning ‘a little bit like a band aid’. She said this sheet is applied to cardiac tissue damaged by heart failure, where it re-integrates into the surrounding tissue and promotes regeneration.“In around two weeks, new capillary networks can be created and the heart can start to function normally again,” Alonso said. She noted that the technology is already further along; the company behind the specific exhibit, CUORIPS, has completed a successful human trial and has applied for government permission to begin making this a real treatment, positioning it for potential use far sooner than the full iPS Heart.The theme of transforming society continues at the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion, themed “Reborn,” which offers visitors a tangible glimpse into urban life in 2050.The interactive ‘Reborn experience’ route captures visitors’ individual health data via a body analysis pod, subsequently generating an avatar showing them their personalised health and lifestyle 25 years in the future. The exhibit pools Osaka’s collective wisdom, technology, and ideas on future cities, food, and culture, creating a powerful, personalized experience.From personalised healthcare stations like the Cell Design Station and Eye Care station to interactive projections of future cities, the Osaka pavilion highlights that Japan’s Expo presence is not merely about showcasing technology, but about defining, developing, and deploying the systems needed to support a thriving, sustainable, and healthy future society.

Osaka, JapanMore than just a national exhibit, Qatar’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is a masterful architectural statement designed to strengthen cultural diplomacy with Japan, employing a blend of shared craftsmanship that is instantly inspiring global tourism interest, pavilion director Faisal Abdulrahman al-Ibrahim has said.The official told 'Gulf Times' that the pavilion, themed 'From the Coastline, We Progress' and designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is a striking visual metaphor: a traditional Qatari dhow boat poised for sail. Its structure features wooden architecture, reminiscent of traditional boats, encased in a large, white membrane that evokes a sail billowing in the wind. This innovative design, he added, was rooted in a discovery of shared heritage.“Kengo Kuma... was trying to find what similarities he can bring into the design. He found common ground in the fine woodworking traditions, the craftsmanship of the boat in Qatar, it is similar to the Japanese wooden architect,” he said.According to the pavilion director, this architectural synergy establishes the pavilion as a symbol to the deepening bilateral relationship between the two nations, demonstrating that collaboration extends far beyond the energy sector. He said the interior of the pavilion immerses visitors in Qatari identity, focusing on the relationship between land and sea. Visitors embark on a “symbolic sea journey” that highlights the country’s extensive coastline, a narrative shift designed to counteract the common perception of Qatar as merely a desert nation. The exhibition guides the public through the history of the pearl industry and the development of coastal cities.On the second floor, al-Ibrahim said this cultural fusion is made tangible in the Majlis (guest room), a space reserved for high-level meetings and events. Here, traditional Qatari and Japanese artistic elements interlock: the carpet design blends Qatari rug culture with the Japanese tatami concept. Additionally, he said sofa fabrics designed by a Qatari artist incorporate three symbols: the colours of both countries, sea waves linking the peninsula and the island nation, and the names of historic Qatari diving and trading boats.He pointed out that the core of the main exhibition fuses the shared history and future co-operation between Qatar and Japan, exploring diverse areas from the historic pearl industry to modern architectural collaborations. Al-Ibrahim said this enthralling showcase of heritage and hospitality is translating directly into economic benefits, particularly for the tourism industry.The pavilion director cited the Expo as a “great opportunity as well from the tourism aspect”: By experiencing the culture and history firsthand, visitors are prompted to take immediate steps toward travel.“Lots of people get to admire the country (Qatar) and what we have, they have spoken with us from the perspective that, yes, definitely we will visit Qatar,” he noted, pointing to the success of the stopover plans offered by Qatar Airways.

OSAKA – Qatar’s presence at Expo 2025 Osaka serves as a key pillar to dismantle stereotypes and strengthen its position as a proactive global partner committed to sustainable development, according to pavilion director Faisal Abdulrahman al-Ibrahim.“It’s an opportunity for the State of Qatar to break any stereotype that people might get from the social media. We’re looking into the achievements that Qatar has made within the last 10 years, that highlighted only the capital of Qatar which is Doha, not knowing the other cities which has played a huge role in shaping the Qatar vision,” al-Ibrahim told Gulf Times.He noted that the Qatar pavilion, also aligned with the “Empowering Lives” sub-theme, addresses global perceptions often limited to the nation’s energy sector or recent mega-events.Al-Ibrahim pointed out that Qatar’s participation is firmly aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, highlighting comprehensive sustainability – a theme he stressed must extend across all sectors, including economic, educational, and environmental stewardship. The concept of “Empowering Lives”, he said, is defined holistically, applying not only to human advancement but also to all living creatures.According to al-Ibrahim, such strategy centres on showcasing how Qatar is first solving global issues internally, then scaling those solutions internationally through collaborations and contributions.“The entire world is moving towards sustainability. It’s better to understand how we can manage these resources to sustain for the upcoming generations, and the Expo is key to increasing awareness,” he said.Al-Ibrahim pointed out that the success of this diplomatic endeavour is being measured by the response of visitors at the Expo, citing a dramatic shift in perception among the public.“The entire prospective of the visitors I would say 90% of them has changed into a proper understanding of our culture, our hospitality, our history and also our vision towards the future,” he said.The pavilion director said many visitors expecting a country based on “the desert only with the camels” are surprised by the reality of Qatar’s coastal focus, the history of its booming pearl industry, and its advanced social infrastructure, including its world-class education and healthcare systems.About the Expo, he said Qatar views the six-month global showcase as an ongoing, continuous legacy, not a standalone event. Having recently hosted the Horticultural Expo previously in Qatar (October 2, 2023, to March 28, 2024), he noted that the participation in Osaka builds on previous experiences and serves as a springboard for future engagements, including specialised expos and the main World Expo in Riyadh in 2030.“We are looking for sustainability of all the resources and hoping that we are capable of highlighting the achievements and to work together with other countries and entities to achieve peace, sustainability, and a happy world at the end,” he stressed, positioning Qatar’s Expo investment as a vital mechanism for long-term global influence and soft power projection.The investment, al-Ibrahim added, is expected to yield significant returns, particularly in tourism, capitalising Qatar Airways’ stopover plans to bring Japanese visitors to Doha for major upcoming mega and sports events.“We will be welcoming lots of visitors from Japan, I would say after the Expo (in Osaka), especially when the big events (in Qatar) will take place in November and December, the FIFA Arab Cup, the FIFA Youth 17 and the Intercontinental Cup as well, so I wish them an enjoyable experience in Qatar and to know us more in depth,” he said.

Visit Qatar signed a multi-year entertainment partnership with MELT Live, the global events company chaired by entertainment icon Steve Harvey, aimed at establishing the country as a premier hub for culture, lifestyle, and world-class events.The collaboration, sealed in Doha Wednesday, will introduce internationally recognised platforms to Qatar, with two flagship events set to debut in 2026.The signing ceremony was led by Qatar Tourism chair and chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji and MELT Live Events chairman Steve Harvey.FuelFest Qatar, a high-energy festival that merges international car culture with live music, is designed to unite automotive enthusiasts and feature global talent; while the Golf Classic by Steve Harvey is a unique lifestyle and sporting event blending competitive golf, top-tier entertainment, and celebrity participation, intended to provide a major platform for global exposure.Al-Kharji highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration, saying: “This strategic collaboration with MELT Live reflects our ambition to strengthen Qatar’s position as a global destination for major cultural and lifestyle events.“By introducing distinctive international platforms such as FuelFest and the Golf Classic, we are diversifying Qatar’s events calendar, creating new opportunities for engagement, and showcasing the country’s commitment to delivering world-class experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide.”Speaking at the announcement, Harvey underlined the foundational philosophy of his company and his attraction to the region, noting that “MELT is an acronym: M stands for the merging of cultures and ideas; E is for the enlightenment and empowerment of people; L is for learning and leadership; T is for trade and technology”.He said the launch of MELT Live in the Gulf region was motivated by the desire to merge global ideas and address misconceptions about the Middle East.“The appeal was to come here and to open up other people’s eyes about the Middle East to try to get rid of some of the misconceptions here,” Harvey said, highlighting Qatar’s unique characteristics.“I've never been anywhere where there’s complete peace... The whole thing about MELT was the merging of cultures and ideas because we have more similarities as people than we do differences,” he added.Harvey said the initial events are designed to introduce high-profile business and celebrity figures to the region. He noted that FuelFest, which originated as a spin-off from the Fast & Furious film franchise, draws large international audiences and significant automotive presence.“The future looks so bright, we could do so many things because of the willingness of Qatar, just the openness that they have towards us. It’s an honour to be in Qatar to witness this exciting new chapter with Visit Qatar and MELT Live. These events are about more than entertainment – they’re about building connections, celebrating culture, and creating unforgettable experiences,” he added.According to Visit Qatar, this landmark agreement marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration and underscores its commitment to expanding the nation’s events portfolio, creating opportunities for cultural exchange, and attracting global audiences to experience Qatar’s unique blend of hospitality and world-class entertainment.A diverse calendar of additional events is currently being planned by MELT Live and Visit Qatar, with more information expected to be announced in the coming months.

The ongoing Expo 2025 Osaka has become a key diplomatic and economic platform aimed at forging deep and long-term partnerships with Qatar and the broader Middle East by moving beyond traditional trade to focus on technology, sustainability, and cultural exchange.Speaking to reporters recently, Masafumi Sugano, director of the International Office for Expo 2025 and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) Deputy Commissioner General, said the event has attracted diplomatic traffic, including over 300 ministerial visits and nearly 100 heads of state, government, and Royal family members, offering an unprecedented occasion for Japan to showcase its vision of a future society.He noted that one of the main aims is converting the Expo’s global platform into business interactions designed to spur fresh trade and investments with different countries, including Gulf nations.“It is an excellent opportunity for Japan to be able to showcase what we envision as future society and also cultural lifestyles,” Sugano noted during a recent briefing on the Expo’s policy significance.He added that METI is utilising the high-level access provided by the Expo to align Japanese expertise directly with the economic diversification goals of Middle Eastern countries. Sugano cited previous deep discussions held with Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia (on achieving its National Vision 2030) as an example of the strategic dialogue being facilitated across various sectors, including mobility, food, and technology.He also cited an example where a series of summits focused on fostering collaboration between Arab and Japanese creators in the gaming industry to produce interesting games.To maximise economic outcomes for Japanese companies, Sugano said METI is implementing several concrete measures during the Expo:Dedicated discussion forums known as “Theme Weeks” tackle specific industry topics, creating structured occasions for intensive B2B interactions.Sugano said the Expo hosted specialised trade and investment delegations from abroad, often coinciding with National Day celebrations, ensuring that business groups and chambers of commerce from nations like Qatar have focused side meetings and visits apart from the general exhibits.A cornerstone of Japan’s offering, and a key area for potential collaboration with Qatar, is the focus on sustainability and the circular economy, he stressed.Beyond business and technology, Sugano said METI views the Expo as crucial for strengthening people-to-people ties—a necessity for robust, long-term relationships.He noted that the intensive, two-to-three-year preparation process undertaken by exhibiting nations, including Qatar, Turkey, Bahrain, and Jordan, prompts Japanese and Middle Eastern teams to overcome regulatory, logistical, and language barriers.“Through this process, these interactions in multiple levels... we managed to, the Japanese and Qatari or Middle Eastern counterparts, have managed to understand each other better and what usually is not possible," Sugano said, stressing that the engagement was “not a superficial one”.He added that these interactions span from dignitaries meeting over coffee to collaborations among musicians and the presence of young Qatari presenters in their national pavilion, all contributing to deeper cultural understanding and confirming high-level co-operation that will lead to greater heights post-Expo.

Osaka, Japan: Expo 2025 Osaka continues to attract massive crowds, both domestic and international, eager to experience a tangible vision of a sustainable future before the gates close on October 13.The six-month event, themed 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives', seeks to foster global collaboration in building a sustainable society where individuals can redefine happiness and realise their full potential.Organisers expect total attendance to exceed 28mn, driven by the strong appeal of the participating pavilions, many of which still draw long queues across the exhibition grounds.The diversity of visitors underscores broad interest not only in technological innovation but also in cultural exchange, as large numbers of foreign guests – including those from the Middle East – arrive to experience global traditions and perspectives.**media[363572]**A major highlight, the Future Society Showcase, demonstrates practical applications of tomorrow’s technologies across six key areas: Smart Mobility, Digital, Virtual, Art, Green, and Future Life.The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) enthralled audiences with displays of next-generation vehicles positioned as near-future solutions to urban congestion and remote access. This offers seamless transportation for city commuters as well as residents in remote areas.**media[363570]**Robotics also takes centre stage at the Expo, presenting a glimpse of how androids could enhance everyday life. Visitors interact with a range of robotic platforms, from the Robot and Mobility Station to automated service units operating throughout the venue.It is learnt that the Expo is widely regarded as a key platform for addressing pressing issues, particularly climate change and healthcare, through its emphasis on sustainability. Exhibits dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 include a cutting-edge carbon recycling factory.Medical innovation is another major draw. The Osaka Healthcare Pavilion features body-analysis pods that collect seven categories of health data, enabling visitors to meet digital avatars that project their health status 25 years into the future. Other attractions include advanced surgical technologies, such as a “flying operation unit” and a “remote operation centre,” along with research into the future of sleep showcased at the Pasona Natureverse.Artificial intelligence and human connection are explored in the Future of Life Pavilion, curated by renowned roboticist Ishiguro Hiroshi. The pavilion features highly advanced androids, including Geminoid, a strikingly humanlike robot modelled after Ishiguro himself, engaging visitors in thought-provoking dialogue.The Expo’s architectural centrepiece is the Grand Ring, designed by renowned architect Fujimoto Sou. This huge wooden structure, one of the largest of its kind in the world, covers a 2-km circumference, offering shaded viewing areas while seamlessly connecting the different exhibition zones.

At Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, the “Robot Experience” is showcasing Hanamoflor—a robot designed to deliver kindness. Already active at Hana House, a nursing home, and at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan), Hanamoflor has been tested in environments with both elderly residents and young children, according to its creators.The trials focused on emotional response and trust-building through everyday interactions. The results have been striking: elderly participants began to sing and smile more, while children formed such strong bonds with the robot that some cried when it was time to say goodbye.The “Robot Experience” highlights how robots are being woven into everyday life—supporting people with navigation, cleaning, guidance, security, and a range of other essential services.