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Moscow, Turkiye, and the Maldives, as well as GCC countries, are topping the list of preferred Eid al-Fitr destinations for Qataris and expatriates, driven by factors like favourable weather, visa-free entry options, and family-friendly luxury, an industry expert said.“Shorter flight duration and mostly direct, since these are short holidays for Qataris as well as expatriates making it a dynamic and diverse travel period,” Tawfeeq Travel Group CEO Rehan Ali Syed told Gulf Times, noting that “good weather is one the key factors to decide on the selection of a destination”.He stressed key factors influencing travel decisions this Eid holidays also include cultural preferences and family ties, where travellers from Qatar often choose places based on comfort and convenience, especially given the relatively short holiday period.Syed noted that these popular spots for Qatar travellers, including Thailand, offer a blend of cultural experiences, shopping opportunities, and diverse attractions. The Maldives, meanwhile, with its luxury resorts and pristine beaches, remains a favourite choice for Qataris seeking relaxation and family-friendly activities.He cited a rise in ‘staycations’ within Qatar, reflecting a desire for relaxation and rejuvenation closer to home. “Qatar is now home to several luxury resorts that offer a special break for all kind of traveller segments,” he said.Syed added that GCC countries also retain their appeal due to proximity, cultural familiarity, and ease of travel (visa on arrival or e-visa, readily available tourist facilities for all age groups, and short, direct flight durations).Regional travel and short-haul destinations are also gaining traction, especially for expatriates who visit countries offering visa-on-arrival facilities, he said.“Destinations such as Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Egypt, and Jordan are increasingly popular, alongside religious trips,” Syed said, noting a growing interest in health and wellness tourism, particularly among Qataris.According to Syed, recent global events have also significantly impacted travel preferences. Economic factors are playing a crucial role, with travellers actively seeking destinations where good exchange rates allow for better value for money.He pointed out that safety and security are also crucial, particularly in regions facing security challenges related to geopolitical tensions.Syed said Gen Z travellers are focused on exploring new places and prioritising getaways with quality and sustainable offerings: “Adventure tourism, wildlife safaris are also picking up”.For Eid al-Fitr, he added that travel agencies in Qatar are offering a curated selection of packages catering to diverse preferences. Family-friendly resorts in the Maldives and Seychelles remain consistently attractive with Qatari families.“The two most important aspect are - competitive pricing and extending their concierge services to assist clients throughout their journey,” Syed said. “Educating the passengers on safety and security (is also a priority) to ensure a wonderful holiday”.For those seeking truly memorable Eid holidays, he recommends exploring and venturing into Oman’s Empty Quarter (Rub’ Al Khali) for a unique desert experience, or immersing in the stunning landscapes of Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains. He noted that Sri Lanka, Baku and Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan provide a blend of culture and natural beauty, while wildlife safaris in Kenya and Tanzania offer unparalleled adventure.

A growing number of residents in Qatar are turning to discount stores at Souq Al Wakrah, where a unique selection of food and non-food items are offered at significantly reduced prices.The appeal lies in the huge discounts on products approaching their expiry dates, offering a haven for budget-conscious consumers looking to stretch their riyals further. The stores have seen a noticeable surge in footfall in recent months, as word spreads about the bargain prices on offer. While the products are nearing their expiration dates, vendors assure shoppers that all items are safe for consumption.The time remaining before expiry varies depending on the product. Some, like muffins and biscuits, have only 1-2 months left, while others, such as nuts and chips, can still be consumed for five months or more.“We’ve been seeing a steady increase in customers,” said a vendor in one of the stores. “Almost everything moves quickly here. It’s because the prices are much lower than you’d find in the hypermarkets or other stores around Qatar. People are looking for value, and they find it here.”He cited the diverse clientele that frequents his shop, saying: “We get people from all nationalities, and many families come to shop together. It’s a real mix of people looking for a good deal.”One shopper, Indian expatriate Nithi, explained why she makes regular trips to the souq. “I come here often for my daily use non-food items,” she said, filling her basket with tissue paper, laundry detergent, and soap. “I save more money since there is a price difference, though some items are unavailable here.”Other shoppers are utilising the discount stores to stock up on treats for their loved ones and friends back home. “I’m going on vacation next month,” said Filipina expatriate Maria, who carefully selects several boxes of chocolates. “These chocolates are a fraction of the price compared to what I’d pay in some supermarkets or in a regular shop. It’s a great way to bring something nice back without breaking the bank.”She added that the discounts are attractive such as a pack of biscuits, which costs over 50% less than its original price. While food items represent a significant portion of the discounted offerings, non-food items are equally popular. Tissues, disinfectants, dish washing liquids, and essential food packaging materials are available at reduced rates, making them attractive options for shoppers seeking to save on everyday household necessities.

Malls across Qatar are embracing the spirit of Eid al-Fitr with a diverse programme of family-friendly entertainment designed to delight visitors of all ages, according to Visit Qatar. The celebrations will feature bubble shows to roaming parades and exclusive performances, from March 30 to April 5.Mall of Qatar’s ‘A Wonderland of Soapy Bubbles’ will run for seven days from March 30, offering stage shows, featuring bubble tricks and effects. Lagoona Mall is hosting shows, fun activities, and roaming parades from March 30 to April 4. The itinerary include magic shows, bubble performances, chemistry demonstrations, and stage performances.Tawar Mall is hosting an Eid al-Fitr extravaganza from March 31 to April 2, filled with performances and shows, as well as other fun-filled activities.The programme is packed with diverse entertainment for each day, including The Candy Queen Bubble Show, Giant Neon Show, an energetic African Dance performance, a hilarious Comedy Clown, and engaging arts and crafts on day one.Day two will see the Barbie Bubble Show, a Real Princess Meet & Greet, a Magic Show, Mascots appearances, another opportunity to witness the Giant Neon Show, Circus Fun, and arts and crafts, among others.The Marshmallow Show, another crowd-puller Bubble Show, a Clown Magic Show, the Giant Neon Show, My Little Pony Mascots, and a special appearance by Mickey & Minnie in Jungle Costumes is on day three.For those seeking a more thrilling experience, Visit Qatar noted that Quest, the region’s innovative indoor theme park, is hosting its Eid al-Fitr celebration from April 1 to 5. The highlight of the event is an exclusive live performance by Haribow Double Dutch, the grand finalist of Britain’s Got Talent 2024.Visitors can witness their gravity-defying acrobatics, jaw-dropping stunts, and rope-jumping skills. In addition to the performance, Quest offers record-breaking rides, indoor skydiving, and cutting-edge virtual reality adventures. Tickets are required for entry to Quest.

Acclaimed Mexican costume designer Anna Terrazas will lend her expertise in visual storytelling to aspiring filmmakers at Qumra 2025 next month, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) has said.Terrazas, known for her ability to translate narrative into powerful visual form through costume design, will offer a unique insight into her craft during the industry event.Qumra 2025, the 11th annual edition of the DFI’s mentorship and development initiative, will run from April 4-9 for in-person sessions and April 12-14 online.DFI describes Qumra as a unique platform dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering hands-on development for filmmakers from Qatar, the region, and beyond.According to DFI on its latest social media post, Terrazas gained international acclaim for her ability to craft characters and stories visually through costume design. Throughout her artistic career, she has worked in film, television, and theatre, collaborating with a host of the world’s most prominent filmmakers.Terrazas’ impressive profile includes collaborations with cinematic giants like Alphonso Cuarón, Alejandro G Iñárritu, and Sam Mendes. She has worked on diverse projects ranging from Gael García Bernal’s ‘Déficit’ (2007) to the James Bond film ‘Spectre’ (2015) and Cuarón’s Academy Award-winning ‘Roma’ (2018).Her talent for blending authenticity with imagination earned her an Ariel Award for Iñárritu’s ‘Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths’ (2022). She also brought her creative vision to television, with credits including HBO’s ‘The Deuce’ and Apple TV’s ‘Hello Tomorrow’.DFI highlights Terrazas' commitment to cultural preservation, collaboration, and creative innovation, noting that it solidifies her legacy as one of contemporary cinema's most dynamic artists.DFI noted that Terrazas will join four other renowned global film luminaries as Qumra Masters for the 2025 event. This year’s cohort also includes directors Lav Diaz, Walter Salles, Johnnie To, and cinematographer Darius Khondji.Open to the public this year are Qumra Master Classes, featuring inspirational insights from industry professionals, and Qumra Screenings, a curated selection of regional and international films supported by DFI through training and funding initiatives.

The Philippine embassy in Doha has announced that election observers, civil society groups, and journalists (local and international) in Qatar can now apply for accreditation to cover or monitor the 2025 Philippine National Elections.The embassy, on its social media, is encouraging interested parties to download the accreditation form from the embassy’s official social media pages. Completed forms should be sent to [email protected] before the application deadline on April 3.The accreditation process allows various stakeholders to play a vital role in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the overseas voting process for Filipino citizens in Qatar.According to the embassy, applications are open to: mass media entities, which includes local, international, and other media outlets intending to report on the conduct of the 2025 Philippine national elections from Qatar. Election observers are individuals or groups who will be exclusively observing and monitoring the elections.The embassy noted that civil society partners or volunteers include overseas Filipino communities, non-governmental organisations, and civil society groups representing the interests of Filipino citizens. These groups intend to conduct voter information campaigns and disseminate information during the overseas voting period.“Be partners with the embassy in ensuring a peaceful and orderly conduct of the historic elections this April and May,” the embassy said. The election is set on May 12.In a separate advisory, the embassy also announced its closure on several dates in the coming weeks.The embassy will be closed from March 31 to April 2 (Sunday to Tuesday) in observance of Eid al-Fitr, on April 9 (Tuesday) in observance of Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagitingan), and on April 17 (Wednesday) in observance of Maundy Thursday.The embassy advises all clients to plan their visits accordingly. For emergencies and other urgent consular matters during the closure periods, contact numbers have been posted on the embassy’s social media pages.

Retailers in Qatar are witnessing a shift in spending pattern with many residents in the country prioritising apparel, gift items, and essentials as Eid al-Fitr holidays approaches, it is learnt.Speaking to Gulf Times, LuLu Group International regional manager Shanavas PM said many shoppers are looking to purchase new dresses for the festive occasion, which is a traditional aspect of the celebrations.He pointed out, however, that they also see a slightly lower overall spending compared to the same occasion last year. More people, he added, are concentrating on necessities, reflecting a cautious attitude to expenditures.The trend, Shanavas said, is further evidenced by a noticeable decrease in demand for mobile phones and other electronic devices, particularly Apple products.While sales of Apple products have seen a dip, he noted that other brands, particularly those from China, are maintaining steady sales. He added that brands such as Oppo are proving popular during this period, suggesting that consumers are seeking value-driven alternatives.According to Shanavas, LuLu is launching its highly anticipated ‘50% Half Payback’ promotion on Monday to cater to Eid shoppers and provide added value. This initiative, he said, offers shoppers an array of items at significantly reduced prices, making festive purchases more accessible.He noted that LuLu Barwa branch is implementing a special QAR19 promotion, offering a diverse selection of products at affordable prices. This promotion covers apparel, accessories, household products, and more, for budget-conscious shoppers seeking quality deals.“The QAR19 promotion at LuLu Barwa aims to provide a wide range of accessible options for our customers who are looking for good value during this festive season,” Shanavas said.Beyond clothing and gifts, it is learnt that other retail shops and boutiques across Doha are also observing a heightened interest in travel-related items. Many residents appear to be preparing for Eid getaways abroad, leading to increased demand for luggage and numerous other travel accessories.An employee of a leading travel shop at a major mall in Doha said that shoppers are keen on taking advantage of the promotions, especially for winter clothes and accessories such as jackets and warmers.“Such items have been in high demand even during the start of the year, and we see an uptick once again during this period,” she said, adding that they expect the trend to continue until the Eid holidays next month.

Souq Al Wakrah has transformed into a hub for Ramadan festivities, attracting many visitors who gather to break their fast and spend the night with loved ones in a welcoming and serene atmosphere.Known for its traditional architecture, sandy beaches, and dhows, Souq Al Wakrah takes on a special charm during Ramadan, with pleasant weather and strings of lights illuminating the pathways, casting a festive glow on the buildings.The aroma of authentic Qatari dishes wafts out from the numerous restaurants, drawing in people eager to enjoy a warm Iftar meal. A Ramadan tent along the beach is adorned with colourful carpets and provides an ample space for families and friends to gather and share stories and enjoy the cool evening breeze.An employee of a seafood restaurant said they witnessed a rise in footfall since the start of the winter season last year and extended up to this month. Many families, he added, “seems to like this place so much because of the welcoming ambience and they prefer to have their suhoor here.“Besides, children also love to play at the beach area and some of the activities and attractions like the pony and camel rides,” he said, adding that several local cats roaming the Souq’s pathways have also become attractions to many.Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, admiring the dhows that serve as a reminder of Al Wakrah’s maritime history.The traditional clothing stores, meanwhile, welcome customers who want to wear new outfits for Eid, the joyous celebration that marks the end of Ramadan, while grocery stores also see a surge as people start stocking up on sweets and other treats for the upcoming holiday break.Souq Al Wakrah offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Roaming through the souq, visitors can discover a wide array of food and non-food items at several shops catering to different tastes and needs.A culinary hot spot, Souq Al Wakrah hosts local, regional and international restaurants and eateries, including Azerbaijani cuisine and tea and coffee shops that offer a comfortable space for gatherings and conversation.

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.