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Msheireb Museums is establishing itself as a key platform for dialogue on critical global issues, taking a central role in raising climate awareness and civic responsibility across Qatar, general manager Abdulla al-Naama has said.Speaking to Gulf Times at the 'Doha Climate Talks: Climate Diplomacy in Action' conference on Sunday, al-Naama highlighted the vital role contemporary cultural institutions must play in addressing pressing global concerns such as climate change.“For us, in Msheireb Museums... we always try to place ourselves as a platform for dialogue,” he said, noting that this approach allows the museums to not just present historical content but to actively engage with current events and community needs.Al-Naama pointed out that central to this mission is the innate commitment to sustainability ingrained within the very fabric of Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), citing the Mohammed Bin Jassim House, one of the Msheireb Museums’ four flagship institutions, as a prime example.He said the Mohammed Bin Jassim House digs into the seven principles that shaped Msheireb’s architectural language, with a significant emphasis on sustainability.“The focus on sustainability is rooted in Msheireb’s DNA, you can see it in Msheireb Downtown Doha," he stressed.According to Msheireb Museums, the Mohammed Bin Jassim House offers visitors a unique journey through time, exploring Qatar’s past heritage, its ongoing development, and its vision for a sustainable future. It effectively chronicles Doha’s evolution and its impact on future planning, making the abstract concept of sustainability tangible and historically grounded.Al-Naama also underlined the dual responsibility of Msheireb Museums as a cultural institution within MDD, saying: “It’s very important to shed light on those topics and raise awareness within the community, and also to have this dialogue with different policymakers internationally.He said the museum’s commitment extends to fostering cross-generational and cross-sectoral dialogue, particularly evident in events that bring together youth and female leaders focused on climate action.This, he added, aligns seamlessly with the International Council of Museums (ICOM) theme for this year: “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”“For museums to be relevant to changing and emerging communities, I think it has to be in connection with the younger generation with topics that engage them with the museum,” said Al-Naama, stressing the importance for museums to remain relevant in an ever-evolving world.He said this means extending beyond showcasing historical artifacts to actively involving visitors in “recent history”, an approach that ensures cultural institutions stay topical and meaningful to both local and international communities.Al-Naama said Msheireb Museums is set to launch a unique exhibition later this year, titled “Heat”. This show, he added, aims to explore various facets of sustainability and draw on a comprehensive encyclopedia published collaboratively between Msheireb Properties and Harvard University several years ago.

More than 100 experts, envoys, and youth leaders gathered Sunday at Msheireb Museums for a climate dialogue with former Germany environment minister Dr Barbara Hendricks, highlighting the Paris Agreement’s legacy and the urgency of closing the global ambition gap.The event, titled “Doha Climate Talks: Climate Diplomacy in Action” and organised in partnership with German embassy in Doha, Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar, and Msheireb Museums, aimed to foster diplomatic co-operation to address pressing climate challenges.Dr Hendricks, who personally negotiated the Paris Agreement for Germany, lauded it as “a huge success and a big sign of hope”.While acknowledging the necessity for faster action against climate change, she said that “we are on track”, expressing optimism for the future and noted the responsibility and strengthening awareness demonstrated by young people in Qatar.Reflecting on the often-arduous path to global consensus during the deliberations, Dr Hendricks recalled the “bitter failure” of the 2009 Copenhagen climate summit, which underscored the critical need for a well-managed, inclusive process to build trust.This, she pointed out, led to German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s initiation of the Petersburg climate dialogue in 2010.Dr Hendricks credited Doha with a key role in 2012, explaining how under Qatar’s presidency, a plan to reach the 2015 agreement was reached.She said that a key shift at that time was moving from the “top-down binding” approach of the Kyoto Protocol to a “bottom-up” approach with “intended nationally determined contributions”, offering countries greater ownership and flexibility.Dr Hendricks paid tribute to Laurent Fabius, then French foreign minister and COP21 president, for his “unprecedented unshackling global diplomacy effort”.She cited his relentless personal conciliation throughout 2015, which was instrumental in uniting nearly all 196 parties.Dr Hendricks also stressed how the passionate pleas of island nations, articulating that the negotiations were about “survival not just economics”, resonated globally and led to the crucial inclusion of the 1.5° Celsius global heating limit in the agreement.While the Paris Agreement has significantly reduced projected warming scenarios from over 4C to an estimated 1.8-3C, Dr Hendricks cautioned that an “ambition gap” remains.“Even in the most optimistic scenarios on implementing what is on the table, we still face an ambition gap. Every 10th of the degree of climate change avoided counts, that makes this process so valuable,” she said, highlighting the challenge of accelerating the ambition cycle to deliver on the 1.5C target.In his speech, Msheireb Museums general manager Abdulla al-Naama spotlighted the institution’s role as a platform for “meaningful conversations that tackle the pressing issues of our times”, with climate change being paramount.He said that Msheireb Downtown Doha is a living testament to sustainable urban development, making it an ideal venue for such discussions.The discussions also covered climate diplomacy, the pivotal role of women in climate leadership, and youth activism.Among the attendees were German ambassador Lothar Freischlader, ambassadors from Australia, Turkiye, Austria, and Azerbaijan, and official representatives from the embassies of France, the United Arab Emirates, Tajikistan, and Switzerland.In a statement, Freischlader underlined the power of diplomacy in translating ambition into collective action.“Whether it is through global frameworks like the Paris Agreement or regional partnerships, climate diplomacy is not just about negotiations, it’s about solidarity, responsibility, optimism and action,” he said.The talks also addressed region-specific challenges, including water security, renewable energy transition, and sustainable urban development, strengthening Qatar’s commitment to environmental sustainability aligned with its National Vision 2030.

The World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism) reiterated its dedication to the Qatar Tourism Awards, citing the initiative’s key role in advancing industry excellence, service quality, and sustainable tourism development.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the launch of the third edition of the awards, Jaime Mayaki, director of International Development and Co-operation at UN Tourism, said the partnership between the global agency and Qatar Tourism reflects a shared vision of promoting responsible, high-quality tourism.“This award is a significant collaboration because, first and foremost, it values the key actors of the tourism sector in Qatar. We’re recognising those who are driving the industry forward, creating a culture of service excellence, raising standards, and delivering world-class customer experiences," Mayaki said.He stressed that the impact of such efforts is already evident, noting that Qatar welcomed 1.5mn visitors in the first quarter of 2025 – a 25% increase compared to the same period last year. Hotel occupancy rates have also jumped by 10%, reaching 77%, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a destination of choice.“Qatar’s tourism sector is expanding at an exponential rate, and as the country diversifies its source markets, the need for tailoured customer service grows. This is where programmes like the Qatar Tourism Awards play a critical role – helping the industry adapt, learn from best practices, and build a community of excellence,” Mayaki pointed out.The awards, organised by Qatar Tourism in strategic partnership with UN Tourism, aim to celebrate institutions and individuals who exemplify innovation, service quality, and sustainability. This year’s edition introduces two new subcategories: one honouring outstanding guest service professionals, and another recognising visionary hotel managers.Mayaki stressed that the initiative merges seamlessly with UN Tourism’s global mandate to promote responsible and sustainable tourism. “Digital innovation and sustainability are key pillars, and these are values Qatar embraces as well. With climate change and other pressing global issues, we need to ensure that tourism growth aligns with sustainable development goals.”He said sustainability is deeply embedded in the awards’ evaluation criteria, as he lauded Qatar’s focus on developing tourism products and services that meet global environmental and ethical standards.“This is not just about recognition. It’s about creating a network of professionals committed to constant improvement where each winner becomes part of a growing alumni community that shares knowledge and raises the bar for the entire sector,” the UN Tourism pointed out.He noted that the application period for the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards is now open and runs until August 7. Winners will join the newly launched Qatar Tourism Awards Winners Circle, aimed at strengthening industry collaboration and highlighting local success stories in tourism and hospitality.

Qatar is doubling down on its commitment to service excellence and global tourism prominence with the launch of the third Qatar Tourism Awards, in partnership with the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), a Visit Qatar official has said.The awards, building on the success of their first two editions, are undergoing significant updates to their judging criteria and evaluation processes, according to Dr Buthaina al-Janahi, the Media Relations and Communications senior manager at Visit Qatar.She highlighted that this evolution is a direct result of “showcasing the success of the first two editions”, which serves as “an indication of the success and the brighter future of such tourism award”.The awards’ criteria are undergoing refinement, a process that may involve the inclusion of more panelists to provide a more in-depth understanding of specific expectations and foster a brighter future for the tourism sector, al-Janahi said.She stressed that the collaboration with the UNWTO, which has been integral since the awards’ inception, is a cornerstone of this commitment to raising standards.Al-Janahi also underlined the value of this partnership, saying that UNWTO’s expertise is crucial for Visit Qatar as it develops and uplifts evaluation criteria, thereby enhancing service excellence in the tourism sector.She added that the shared objectives between Qatar Tourism and the UNWTO are clear: to firmly place Qatar on the global tourism map. This is achieved, al-Janahi noted, by continuously delivering exceptional service to guests and visitors, aligning with sustainable development goals to boost Qatar’s global presence.Given the robust growth and development of Qatar’s tourism sector, al-Janahi expressed optimism for the upcoming edition’s participation levels. "I am very positive that demand will be higher than the second edition. There is a great demand, great interest by everyone, and everyone is eager to compete and to apply for such award."She said these awards offer a significant benefit, fostering both individual achievement and providing a platform for entrepreneurial projects to showcase their contributions to the sector.Al-Janahi pointed out that the continuous evolution and refinement of these awards send a powerful message to both the local tourism industry and international observers about Qatar’s unwavering dedication to excellence.She said that Qatar Tourism remains dedicated to its commitment, striving to achieve service excellence and high quality by its 2030 target.

Qatar’s rapidly flourishing culinary scene, significantly bolstered by initiatives such as 'Taste of Qatar' and the recent inclusion of the Michelin Guide, is poised to become a major draw for international travellers, according to a UN Tourism official.Speaking to Gulf Times, UN Tourism’s International Development and Co-operation director Jaime Mayaki said this gastronomic evolution is adding a crucial new dimension to the country’s growing appeal as a global tourism destination.He underlined the strategic importance of this culinary focus, explaining how it complements Qatar’s broader efforts in service excellence and cultural preservation.“I’m extremely happy to see that Qatar is also looking at, putting into perspective its own gastronomy, its own Qatari spices, its own cuisine,” Mayaki said. “This can be an amazing set of different products related to gastronomy that Qatar can put into perspective.”He pointed out that the enthusiasm surrounding Qatar’s culinary landscape stems from several key developments. The 'Taste of Qatar' programme, launched earlier this year, introduces a sophisticated restaurant classification system designed to elevate service standards and dining experiences across the country.Mayaki stressed that these initiatives aim to create a world-class dining ecosystem, also highlighting the recent launch of the Michelin Guide in Doha. This is expected to enhance travellers’ ability to discover the breadth of Qatar’s dining and hospitality, ensuring richer and more unforgettable experiences.The UN Tourism official drew a parallel with Lima in Peru, a city that has transformed into a leading global culinary capital, attracting travellers solely for its gastronomic offerings. “Lima has become one of the key leading capitals of the world when it comes to gastronomy, so people even travel to Peru just to eat,” he noted, suggesting a similar path for Qatar.He also underscored that a broader commitment to service excellence is driving the entire tourism sector forward. He cited the Qatar Tourism Awards, now in its third edition, as a key driver of healthy competition and increased visibility for the country on the international stage.“The tourism actors are raising their standards so there is a healthy competition among them,” he said. “This creates genuine interest, generates attention and visibility for Doha, for the whole country.”UN Tourism, as a global entity, is actively promoting Qatar as a premier destination in the region, a place where “amazing hotels, tour operators, tour guides, and destinations and sites” are continually raising the bar, according to Mayaki.He spotlighted the strategic integration of tourism influencers into marketing campaigns, which he described as a necessary evolution in today’s digital age. “You can no longer do marketing campaigns without including influencers in the mix, you cannot communicate without them,” he said, stressing the positive buzz generated by Qatar’s distinct tourism products.Regarding Qatar’s competitive advantages over other regional destinations, Mayaki said connectivity is paramount. “Qatar Airways is one of the leading airlines in the world,” he said, pointing to its expanding global hubs and the attractive 1-2 days transit stay packages that encourage extended visits.He noted that cultural heritage also stands out as a significant draw, lauding Qatar’s commitment to developing and showcasing its rich cultural assets and citing the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) as an example. “That was really amazing, and you see also a lot of different cultures being featured,” he recounted, sharing his recent visit to the Latin American exhibition at NMoQ.The country’s coastline also offers diverse marine sports opportunities, the UN Tourism official added.Qatar’s most significant demonstration of its capabilities, according to Mayaki, was its flawless hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022. He said: “The world saw when Qatar hosted the World Cup that, in terms of hospitality, in terms of services available, everything went extremely smoothly. This again, in terms of visibility, gives an edge to Qatar in comparison to other countries in the region because they were the only one having been able so far to organise an event of that magnitude.”Mayaki also pointed to the vision propelling Qatar’s tourism ambitions, commending His Highness the Amir’s “amazing vision” rooted in Qatari values, which he believes inspires the nation’s efforts. “It’s also a metaphor of how the country is also moving forward in a very modern way but with their own values,” he added, expressing UN Tourism’s enthusiasm to be part of Qatar’s ongoing tourism adventure.“We see that the number of visitors are increasing, but you want quality over quantity as well,” Mayaki said, highlighting Qatar’s focus on a balanced growth strategy that blends tradition with modernity, sustainability, and digital innovation.

Qatar Foundation (QF) is systematically advancing inclusive education services across the country – from fostering a uniquely sensitive approach for children with autism to establishing dedicated schools and launching new financial aid for families – as detailed in its latest progress report.According to QF’s ‘Building an Autism-Friendly Nation in Qatar’ progress report (2016-2024), a cornerstone of its commitment is the Special Schools and Special Educational Needs Services (S4) department, established in 2022.This department, QF noted, centralises its efforts to serve children and young people facing academic challenges and complex learning needs. S4 oversees QF’s specialised educational institutions, including Awsaj Academy, Renad Academy, and Warif Academy, while also managing a comprehensive range of essential special educational needs (SEN) services. Its formation underscores QF’s dedication to championing inclusive education and driving innovations that value the abilities and contributions of individuals with diverse needs.The report pointed out that QF’s approach is deeply rooted in recognising the individual capabilities and real-life requirements of each child, particularly those with autism, with active parental participation as a basis.Operating within its diverse ecosystem, QF said it pioneers a culturally sensitive educational model for Qatar, meticulously designed to understand how each child learns and experiences the world.“Our qualified internationally certified teaching staff are designing curricula that give these children a clear pathway, ensuring that children with autism and other learning differences have the same quality learning experiences as their neurotypical peers in mainstream schools,” the report said. It also cited QF’s key role in supporting children with disabilities, which dates back to 1996 with the establishment of Awsaj Academy.Initially The Learning Centre, providing services to special needs students at Qatar Academy, QF said Awsaj Academy evolved into an independent school within Education City. It has since expanded to accommodate more than 600 students aged 3-18 years, primarily focusing on those with mild to moderate learning disabilities from kindergarten to Grade 12.The academy prioritises students who are typically two to four years behind their peers due to specific learning differences or anxiety disorders, offering tailored catch-up programmes to facilitate high school graduation, university entry, or employment. In response to growing demand, the report said QF plans to expand Awsaj Academy’s reach and localise access to enhanced SEN services through the ‘Awsaj Satellite Programme’ within QF mainstream schools.It aims to integrate these programmes into Qatar’s broader pre-university education system. Awsaj Academy also collaborates extensively with other QF entities on clinical support, training, research, and technological innovations to foster systemic educational change and ensure sustainability.The report revealed that recent years have also seen the growth of Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) schools for children with special needs, including the Al-Hidaya Group of Schools and Warif Academy.The creation of Warif Academy, managed by QF for MoEHE, marks a significant milestone as Qatar’s first school designed for students with profound and multiple learning disabilities who have never before accessed formal education, affirming every child’s right to a structured educational experience. QF is also actively engaging with MoEHE to broaden the scope of national specialised schools and is playing a key role in developing a comprehensive roadmap for special educational needs across the country.

Gulf nations, including Qatar, are playing a key role in publicly confronting the human rights impact of unilateral coercive measures, particularly as these issues overlap with artificial intelligence (AI) development, UN Special Rapporteur Alena Douhan has said.“I’m really happy that countries of the Gulf region are addressing these issues because it’s a first step that states are taking to prevent closing their eyes to the problem. Making it public and actively addressing it are very important,” she said, noting their strong support for relevant UN resolutions.“I hope that it will continue in the future,” said Prof Douhan, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Negative Impact of Unilateral Coercive Measures on the Enjoyment of Human Rights.She was speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of a panel discussion at the International Conference on “Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future” in Doha, which concluded Wednesday.The session explored the evolution and current advancements of AI, including fundamental topics like machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and generative AI. It also underlined the innovative potential of AI systems and discussed the foundational principles for their responsible development and deployment.About mitigating AI challenges stemming from unilateral sanctions and over-compliance, Prof Douhan pointed out that the core issues in the ‘cyber world’ remain consistent, suggesting an unwavering respect for international law, a fundamental pillar of the UN.“Rule of law is really important because it provides for the possibility to avoid any discrimination towards states with due respect to the principle of sovereign equality of all states and to respect the rights of people in different countries around the world,” she said.A second key mechanism, according to the Special Rapporteur, is the rigorous application of responsibility and accountability. She highlighted a persistent issue where states attempt to shift human rights violation liabilities to businesses, while businesses, fearing penalties, claim helplessness.Prof Douhan noted that she recently finalised “guiding principles and sanctions business and human rights” and an accompanying commentary, which define the rights and responsibilities of both states and businesses.“From the perspective of international law, it shall not be the choice either or either responsibility of states or responsibility of businesses. In reality, it’s the responsibility of both states and businesses to make sure that human rights are not violated,” she stressed.Prof Douhan stressed the imperative for states and individuals to actively collect facts and understand the precise impact of sanctions. Her mandate last year launched a monitoring tool to publicly demonstrate the often-denied humanitarian consequences of unilateral sanctions.Prof Douhan lauded the multidisciplinary scope of the conference, noting it was particularly valuable for bringing together professionals from diverse fields—lawyers, technical scientists, and human rights specialists—who typically operate in silos.“It’s very good for all of us having the possibility to listen to the position of other specialists so that we can use the multi-disciplinary approach,” she said, as she underlined the event’s focus on all categories of human rights and the wide array of challenges posed by cyber technologies and AI development.

While artificial intelligence (AI) is set to inject trillions into the global economy and transform sectors like health and education, experts warned that its rapid rise urgently requires legally binding frameworks to protect human rights, particularly privacy.Dany Wazen, Digital Transformation Specialist with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) – Lebanon, highlighted AI’s huge economic potential, saying a 2025 UNDP Human Development Report projected that AI could contribute $15.7tn to the global economy by 2030, with some local economies seeing up to a 26% boost in gross domestic product.He noted that AI and machine learning specialists are already among the top 10 fastest-growing jobs globally, underscoring the urgent need for workforce adaptation, as 60% of workers worldwide will require formal training by 2027 to meet evolving job demands. Wazen, joined by a panel of international experts, was speaking at a session at the International Conference on “Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights: Opportunities, Risks, and Visions for a Better Future” on Tuesday at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Doha. The event, concluding Wednesday, brought together global leaders and specialists to tackle AI’s complex impact.The session, titled "Artificial Intelligence: Concept, Capabilities and Governing Values,” was chaired by Dr Stephen Rainbow, High Commissioner for Human Rights in New Zealand, and Yasmine Hamdar, AI Specialist at UNDP – UAE. According to the UNDP report, AI-powered automation tools have significantly reduced administrative workloads in healthcare by up to 70%, freeing professionals to focus more on patient care. It added that this efficiency is expected to translate into substantial savings, with AI potentially generating up to $150bn in annual savings for the US healthcare system alone by 2026.In the education sector, Wazen said growth projections, with the global AI in education market expected to skyrocket from $5.18bn in 2024 to $112.3bn by 2034.He underlined AI tools’ critical role in student success, with 71% of teachers and 65% of students deeming them essential for college and work. Wazen cited real-world applications across various sectors, including improved loan granting and fraud detection in finance, personalised interactions in customer service via chatbots, and optimised traffic flow and logistics in transportation.However, experts also issued stark warnings, cautioning that the optimistic outlook in this digital age was shadowed by the potential for human rights abuses. Prof Alena Douhan, UN Special Rapporteur on the Negative Impact of Unilateral Coercive Measures on the Enjoyment of Human Rights, raised serious concerns that states are misusing references to “malicious cyber activity” to introduce unilateral sanctions, bypassing established legal norms.“The problem with unilateral sanctions is that states do not qualify it as a crime. They punish people and companies without due process, without the presumption of innocence ...” she said, noting that it is a contrast with the recently adopted United Nations Convention against Cybercrime. This, she pointed out, mandates adherence to domestic law and due process.Prof Douhan also questioned the concept of state sovereignty in cyberspace, recalling that the UN General Assembly has already recognised threats from the malicious use of cyber technologies by terrorist and extremist groups, and urged adherence to the principle that “The Right to privacy in the digital age” calls for the same rights online as offline.To safeguard privacy in the AI, Dr Ana Brian Nougreres, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Privacy, called for a concrete action, saying that: “We must move beyond soft ethical principles and adopt a binding legal framework grounded in international human rights law."She emphasised that AI systems must respect the principles of legality, necessity, and proportionality, stressing that any privacy interference must have a legal basis. “Privacy should not be an afterthought or optional feature; it must be a core part of the architecture of any AI system,” she said. Developers and companies, she added, must be legally mandated to build systems that minimise data collection, restrict access to sensitive information, and ensure privacy settings are enabled by default, free from deceptive design.“As AI becomes more powerful and pervasive, the stakes for privacy and other fundamental rights grow exponentially... We need concrete and enforceable measures to ensure that AI technologies serve humanity rather than erode the rights and freedoms that define us.“Let us ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of human dignity. Let us build an AI future rounded in transparent, accountability and respect for human rights,” Dr Nougreres said.

The South Korean embassy in Doha and Hamad bin Khalifa University (HBKU) recently co-hosted the inaugural “Quiz on Korea” preliminary round in Qatar, attracting eight Qatari participants.The event was part of the globally televised KBS (Korean Broadcasting System) show. The winner secured a round-trip ticket and accommodation in Seoul, along with the opportunity to participate in the final round of the '2025 Quiz on Korea,' to be broadcast globally this autumn.Pil-ho Kang, deputy chief of mission of the embassy; and Dr Boualem Yahiaoui, head of Language Teaching, Learning, and Assessment at the Language Centre, attended the event and highlighted its importance with their remarks.Pil-ho Kang also touched upon the growing popularity of Korean culture in Qatar, noting the high demand for K-beauty products among Qataris visiting Korea and the increasing interest in learning the Korean language, citing her frequent greetings of "annyeonghasaeyo" (hello) from Qataris since her arrival.

Old Doha Port has unveiled Minakom, Qatar’s first contactless digital platform enabling seamless customs clearance, immigration permits, and port access approvals for vessels.The Port’s CEO, Mohammed Abdullah al-Mulla, said the launch event, titled 'Minakom & Beyond: Unlocking the Future of Maritime Tourism', marks a significant step in the nation’s digital transformation in maritime tourism.He said Minakom serves as one of Old Doha Port’s most significant service advancements to date, allowing yacht and boat owners to obtain permits and clearances entirely online. This, he noted, eliminates the need for physical disembarkation.“It reflects our broader commitment to digital transformation in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. By replacing traditional procedures and port-side processing with a seamless digital interface, we’ve modernised one of the most critical touch points in marine tourism.“This is a deliberate move toward smarter, more efficient government services that support economic diversification, logistics innovation, and Qatar’s ambition to be a leader in intelligent infrastructure across all sectors,” al-Mulla said.Through a quick digital submission via the official portal, the CEO said all procedures are then managed by a pre-approved logistics agent on the vessel’s behalf. This contactless, vessel-side clearance process is a first for Qatar and rare in the region.According to al-Mulla, the development of Minakom involved collaboration and workshops with various government entities, including the Ministry of Transportation, the Ministry of Interior’s Border Passports Department, the Permanent Committee for Management of Maritime Ports, the General Directorate of Coast and Borders Security, and the General Authority of Customs.Initially soft-launched during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the service has since been enhanced based on user feedback. Since its inception, Minakom has digitally processed more than 250 vessels, significantly improving visitor experience.He said Old Doha Port is set for significant physical expansion and a vibrant calendar of events. Responding to strong demand from yacht owners, the port will add new berths within the port basin and upgrade marine infrastructure in the Mina Corniche area, including enhanced water and power supply. A new service featuring sea tours and internal transportation across the port will also be introduced, offering stunning views of the Doha Corniche skyline.To promote year-round maritime tourism, Old Doha Port also announced a variety of summer activities including jet ski races, kayak rentals, stand-up paddling, diving experiences, and dedicated fishing days, offering accessible ways for residents and visitors to enjoy the sea.Upcoming attractions would include the 2nd edition of the Qatar Boat Show on November 5-8, promising more exhibitors, additional event space, and new experiences.“So much has happened over the past few months,” al-Mulla said, pointing to key milestones including hosting the inaugural Qatar Boat Show, launching the Old Doha Port Fishing Exhibition, and introducing the Mina Pre-Owned Boat Show. These initiatives, he said, have steadily reshaped the port “into a regional hub for marine tourism, recreational boating, and cultural engagement”.“Old Doha Port is more than a destination, it’s a living, breathing ecosystem. Every service we introduce, every partnership we foster, and every event we host is part of a larger vision to restore the historic bond between the city and the sea, and to share it with the world,” al-Mulla said.

Old Doha Port and Nomas Centre brought Qatar’s rich maritime heritage to life for young enthusiasts, hosting a fishing competition for children aged 8 to 14 at the Mina District on Thursday.The event immersed dozens of participants in a unique experience, offering them a chance to learn traditional skills, forge a deeper connection with local culture, and revel in a weekend of friendly competition by the sea.At Mina District docks, young participants competed and presented their catch for weighing. The event concluded with the awarding of the winners, who received cash prizes and toolboxes.The fishing contest was followed by a pearl diving competition Friday. Organisers noted that these events expand Old Doha Port’s cultural calendar, aimed at honouring Qatar’s fishing traditions and showcasing innovations in the regional fishing industry.A fishing competition in March attracted more than 500 participants in 132 teams, a record for fishing competitions in the country. Organisers said this high participation reflects public enthusiasm and positions Old Doha Port as a leading marine destination.Old Doha Port also engaged in cultural preservation and community outreach through other events, including a four-day fishing exhibition in April at Mina Park. This show aims to combine heritage with modern aspects, presenting Qatar's fishing history and current industry. It featured events, performances, and demonstrations by traditional craftsmen, who displayed skills such as net making and rope weaving, associated with maritime life.The artisans at the exhibition showcased invaluable skills integral to maritime life such as the intricate art of net making and the robust craft of rope weaving, offering a living testament to the ancestral expertise of Qatari seafarers.According to the organisers, these cultural events honour Qatar’s maritime traditions and aim to foster cultural continuity and pride among younger generations.

The successful hosting of 456 Italian delegates in Doha highlights the ‘exceptional growth’ of Qatar’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, an industry expert has said. Sreekanth Menon, the general manager of popular online travel portal Musafir.com, told Gulf Times that the convention, held at one of Doha’s premier venues recently, highlighted Qatar’s capacity to handle large-scale professional events.He cited cutting-edge infrastructure, seamless service, and logistical precision as key factors in the event’s success.“Qatar is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Our ability to offer state-of-the-art infrastructure alongside deeply enriching cultural experiences makes us a compelling destination for MICE travellers. “Hosting 456 distinguished guests from Italy is a proud achievement, showcasing Qatar’s potential on the global MICE stage,” Menon said.According to Menon, the delegates from Italy visited Doha for a high-profile international convention, and took part in a rich cultural immersion programme. The guests also enjoyed a meticulously designed itinerary that combined business excellence with authentic Qatari experiences.He expressed confidence that with continued collaboration and investment, Qatar is poised to emerge as a premier international hub for conventions and incentive travel.Menon said the Italian delegation explored Qatar’s rich cultural heritage, joining a thrilling desert safari, offering them a taste of the golden dunes and traditional Bedouin hospitality. “They were captivated by the vibrant atmosphere of the iconic Souq Waqif, exploring its bustling marketplace, traditional crafts, spices, and local street life”.He added that the cultural journey continued with a curated tour of Msheireb Museums, located in Doha’s heritage district. The museums presented an inspiring narrative of Qatar’s transformation from a pearl-diving economy to a modern global player—an experience many guests described as deeply educational and emotionally engaging.Menon lauded the key role of Qatar Tourism, crediting its ongoing efforts in attracting an increasing number of international visitors. He pointed out that Visit Qatar has been actively promoting the country’s MICE capabilities on the global stage.As part of its strategic outreach, he said Visit Qatar led a delegation to IMEX Frankfurt 2025, one of the world’s leading exhibitions for the meetings and events industry.At IMEX, Menon noted that Visit Qatar and its partners showcased diverse offerings, ranging from luxury hospitality and cutting-edge event venues to tailored cultural and leisure programmes designed for global business travellers.He added that Visit Qatar also engaged with international buyers, industry stakeholders, and event planners, reinforcing the message that Qatar is ready and equipped to host events of any scale with excellence and authenticity. He described the response from the international community as overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the country’s rising stature as a MICE destination.

Qatar is set to sign its first public-private partnership (PPP) for a new QR20bn high-end beach resort Thursday, as the nation pivots its tourism development towards maximising its coastal attractions, Qatar Tourism Chairman HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji has announced.Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum Wednesday, he said the project signifies a strategic shift towards maximising the nation’s coastal attractions and offering distinctive luxury experiences.According to al-Kharji, the centerpiece of this expansion is the “Simaisma Project,” located just a 20-minute drive from the Raffles Doha hotel. He added that this expansive development will feature a “Land of Legends Theme Park” with diverse attractions and a golf course, promising a world-class experience for visitors.He said further details on the PPP project, involving Qatar Tourism, the Public Work Authority, and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, are expected to be announced Thursday.Al-Kharji also revealed that Qatar is placing a moratorium on new hotel licenses, with the exception of beach, waterfront, and resort properties. Currently, he said Qatar boasts a portfolio of 40,000 hotel rooms, with an additional 7,000 in the pipeline. This strategic adjustment aims to channel future development towards high-value coastal experiences that align with Qatar's vision for luxury tourism.The discussion, moderated by Joumanna Bercetche of Bloomberg Television, also explored the intrinsic link between luxury and sustainability in Qatar's new wave of development. Al-Kharji underscored that this integration is by design, woven into the fabric of every recent project in Doha.“Luxury and sustainability are very well integrated here in Qatar, in every and each project been developed recently in Doha,” al-Kharji said. He cited several examples, including the Ras Abrouq resort, a “great habitat hotel” built within the environmentally sensitive Al Reem Biosphere Reserve.The Qatar National Convention Centre, a beacon of sustainability in the region for over a decade, boasts a LEED Certificate. Furthermore, Msheireb Downtown Doha exemplifies this dual focus, designed as both a luxurious and environmentally friendly urban space.

Capitalising on its status as one of the world's highest spenders on healthcare (12% of its annual budget), Qatar’s health tourism strategy aims to attract international visitors seeking high-quality healthcare services, Qatar Tourism Chairman HE Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji told the Qatar Economic Forum 2025.Speaking Wednesday, he highlighted Qatar's significant annual investment in healthcare, allocating a substantial 12% of its state budget – one of the highest expenditures globally – as a cornerstone of this new tourism thrust.“We at Qatar Tourism look at it as like it’s an opportunity, and we worked very closely with the Ministry of Public Health to develop the new health tourism strategy and we just finished it and presented it to the Prime Minister,” he stated during the discussion, moderated by Joumanna Bercetche of Bloomberg Television.Al-Kharji said the strategy seeks to take advantage on this vast government investment, inviting global audiences to “come, enjoy our quality healthcare, and our quality and safety in the city”.He stressed that this move is not about increasing visitor numbers but attracting a demographic that values and is willing to extend their stay for high-quality specialised services.To achieve this, the QT chairman noted that Qatar is looking to integrate advanced technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to promote its healthcare offerings. “This is what we are focusing on with AI with big tech companies in Doha, and put tourism more closely with the people to let people, everyone, to know what they can have and what they can enjoy here in Doha,” al-Kharji explained.Beyond medical services, he said Qatar is investing in ensuring a high-quality visitor experience across all touchpoints. He cited the “Qatar Excellence Academy,” an initiative covering all aspects of the tourism sector, from museums and tour guides to DMCs and taxi drivers, actively educating service providers both within and outside Doha about the nation's diverse attractions and high standards.He said this is done with the support of international partners like Accor, whose Group Chairman and CEO Sébastien Bazin also spoke at the forum.The 'Tourism in Focus' session also addressed broader themes, including luxury tourism, sustainability, Gulf competition, highlighting Qatar's comprehensive approach to shaping its tourism future.

Qatar's tourism sector is witnessing an unprecedented surge, recording 5mn visitors and 10mn room nights in 2024, marking a significant 25% increase from the previous year, according to Qatar Tourism (QT) chairman HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji.Speaking during the 'Tourism in Focus' session at Qatar Economic Forum 2025 Wednesday, he said this growth underscores Qatar's strategic shift from solely focusing on visitor numbers to prioritising the economic impact generated by extended stays.He announced that the tourism sector contributed QR55bn to the national GDP in 2024, representing 8% of total economic output — a 14% increase over 2023. He assured that Qatar is well on track to achieving its Tourism Strategy 2030 goal of contributing 12% to GDP, highlighting the sector’s increasing importance in the nation’s broader economic diversification strategy.HE al-Kharji underlined Qatar’s leading position in regional room night growth, with a 22% increase, surpassing other prominent Gulf destinations.“I'm very happy to find Qatar ranking number one in the region with a growth around 22% in room nights,”, he added, noting that Abu Dhabi and Kuwait followed with 8-10% growth.The session, moderated by Joumanna Bercetche of Bloomberg Television, explored the evolving landscape of global tourism, touching upon luxury, sustainability, health tourism, and Gulf competition.Al-Kharji noted that Qatar is strategically building on the momentum from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which HE the Prime Minister likened to an 'IPO moment' for the country." He said the nation continues to host various international events, utilising its state-of-the-art infrastructure.“The big events are non-stop that we host in Doha, and to utilise the great infrastructure we have," he said, noting that this year alone, Qatar is set to host the FIFA World Cup Under 17, the Arab Cup for the second time, and Formula 1 in the last quarter. He added that Doha is currently hosting the World Cup for Table Tennis, and will host the 2027 Basketball World Cup, as well as the Asian Games for the second time in 2030.Joining al-Kharji on the panel was Accor Group Chairman and CEO Sébastien Bazin, who has visited Qatar more than 100 times in the past three decades and expressed his long-standing admiration for the country's development.Bazin expressed optimism for the global travel industry, predicting a “golden age” where demand will significantly outpace supply. “The tourism travel industry is a blessed industry," he said, adding that demand has consistently grown at 3-5% annually for the past 50 years against a supply growth of 1.5-2%. He forecasts this trend to intensify in the next two decades, with demand potentially increasing by 4-6% while supply remains at 1.5-2%.This unprecedented growth, according to Bazin, is fueled by three key factors: higher global demography, the rapid growth of the emerging middle class, and improved means of transport. Accor considers the GCC region to be the fastest-growing globally for its business, having increased by 32% since pre-Covid times.Bazin also cited the emotional aspect of travel, stating, “You always forget what people say, you always forget what people act but you don't forget what they make you feel.”He underscored Accor's focus on creating feelings, sentiments, memories, and souvenirs, particularly within the luxury segment, aligning with Qatar's efforts to diversify its offerings to ensure longer, more enriching “staycations” for visitors.

The Gulf region stands as a “credible and historical partner” crucial for facilitating payments, attracting global capital, and investing in Africa’s flourishing market and human potential, prominent African business leader Tony O Elumelu has said at the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025.Elumelu, the Group chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, was speaking at a QEF session on Tuesday titled, “Banking 2025: The New Growth Playbook.” He was joined on the panel by DBS Bank Group CEO and director Tan Su Shan.Moderated by Bloomberg Television’s chief Africa correspondent and anchor Jennifer Zabasajja, the discussion explored how disruptive technology, evolving credit markets, and shifting risk dynamics are transforming global banking.“We have operations in the GCC because, in the Global South today, intra-South co-operation is very important. Trading amongst ourselves, facilitating payments among ourselves is very important, attracting global capital,” Elumelu said.He made a comparison to Qatar’s $1.2tn investment pledge directed towards America after US President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf, suggesting this represents the kind of capital Africa should attract.“Africa is a land of opportunities; Africa has a huge population that’s upcoming and very energetic, and active. We need to do more on the continent, which is why I am here... Africa is ready for the global capital to come in and make investment,” he pointed out.Elumelu underlined that such investments to Africa should foster mutual prosperity, saying: “We welcome people from the Gulf states to come and invest in Africa”.He also cited a recent collaboration where the Tony Elumelu Foundation signed a partnership with the UAE to further support young Afghan entrepreneurs.Elumelu said his main message was for a partnership model prioritising investment over aid in 21st-century Africa: “We have the market, we have the people, we have a lot of endowments, let’s collectively come together... for the common good of humanity. For benefits of investors, as well as benefits for the locals”.The UBA chairman also shines a spotlight on Africa’s pressing needs, particularly job creation for its youthful demographic, saying: “Africa is an interesting continent; we have over 600mn of its 1.1bn people are aged 25, so employment, job creation is very critical for us on the continent”.He noted that access to capital for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remains a significant challenge.

The search for Qatar’s top tourism and hospitality performers is officially underway as Qatar Tourism (QT), in collaboration with the World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), opened applications for the third annual Qatar Tourism Awards 2025 Monday. Addressing a press conference, QT’s Tourism Development Sector chief Omar al-Jaber said: “We are proud to continue highlighting stories of excellence by honouring individuals and institutions that elevate service standards across the tourism sector.“Our renewed partnership with UN Tourism strengthens the credibility of every stage of the awards. With the organisation’s global expertise and established benchmarks, we are confident that this edition will be managed with the utmost transparency and precision”.He stressed that QT has refined the evaluation framework for greater clarity and depth, maintaining its collaboration with UN Tourism in a shared effort to support Qatar’s ambitions and uphold fairness for applicants. Submissions are now being accepted, with the portal open until August 7.According to QT, this year’s edition added two new sub-categories: Hotelier of the Year, for general managers demonstrating notable leadership and innovation in hotel operations; and Leading Chief Concierge, for five-star property concierges in Qatar who exemplify exceptional guest service and deep local knowledge.Organisers noted that the initiative, now in its third year, continues to evolve as a legacy platform fostering exceptional performance and competition by recognising superior service and the shaping of distinctive Qatari visitor experiences. QT and UN Tourism will initially assess applications, before a distinguished panel of local and international experts, announced in June for transparency, conducts the final evaluation.UN Tourism’s International Development and Co-operation director Jaime Mayaki said: “As we launch the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence, transparency, and global best practices.“These Awards honour the pioneers shaping Qatar’s tourism story – from chefs reimagining local flavours, to concierges creating unforgettable experiences, to innovators harnessing technology for smarter travel.“Every nomination tells a story of dedication, with the power to shape not only the future of tourism in Qatar, but around the world. UN Tourism is proud to stand alongside Qatar in this initiative, built on trust, shared values, and a common pursuit of progress,” Mayaki added.QT also launched the Qatar Tourism Awards Alumni Network recently to promote engagement between previous winners and its leadership. Winners of the third edition, set to be revealed in November, will gain increased visibility via QT/Visit Qatar platforms and sponsorship priority, reflecting ongoing sector support.Meanwhile, Gastronomic Experiences applicants must be enrolled in the Taste of Qatar initiative, highlighting QT’s commitment to industry-wide service quality.Application guidelines and more information are available at: https://www.qatartourism.com/en/service-excellence/qatar-tourism-awards or email [email protected]

The “Nuovo Paesaggio (New Landscapes)” exhibition at M7 presents Italian artist Quayola’s work as a "perfect match" for Doha, as it bridges past and future much like the city itself, according to curator Claudio Composti.Speaking to *Gulf Times, he said that the exhibition, featuring pieces that appear as paintings or photographs but are created using advanced contemporary technologies, aims to resonate deeply with a city known for its rapid development while honouring its rich history.Composti noted Doha’s unique position as “a city that is very contemporary that has these amazing museums where they show their ancient culture and tradition”.The exhibition, presented by the Italian embassy in Doha in collaboration with Fondazione AGO – Modena Fabbriche Culturali and supported by the Directorate-General for Contemporary Creativity of the Italian ministry of culture, is on view at M7 (first floor) until July 19.Composti noted that Quayola is the ideal artist for the Doha exhibition, as his work’s ability to bridge the past with the future mirrors how Doha itself has evolved and shaped its distinctive cityscape.He added that the renowned Italian artist achieves this bridge by utilising contemporary technologies such as 3D laser scanning and specialised video recording.He said New Landscapes also prompts a broader discussion on the nature of art in the digital age, suggesting that works like Quayola’s, which skillfully use machines and technology, challenge traditional definitions, particularly of photography.“Photography literally means ‘written by light’, and out of the film, we cannot call photography,” he said. “So the point is, why we continue to describe it as photography only? Maybe it’s an image printed on paper, but it's done and created with a very contemporary and futuristic technologies.”Composti proposed that this evolution might require new vocabulary.“Maybe we have to create not only a new landscape but a new word ... we define where art is today, and which tools we have – or the artist has – to create art.”