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Gaza ceasefire negotiations remain in their "early stage" after more than a week of talks, even as mediators step up efforts to broker a truce between Israel and Hamas, Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told reporters Tuesday."Discussions on the framework agreement are still ongoing. Both delegations are present here in Doha, and the mediators are intensifying efforts to reach an agreement," al-Ansari said during his weekly media briefing."The negotiations are still in the first phase, which is specifically about reaching an agreement of principle ahead of negotiations that will begin, God willing, in the next phase," he said.The Qatari spokesman insisted: "We believe there is no stalemate," adding there was no set timeframe for the talks.As long as there are meetings in Doha, this means that the negotiations are ongoing, he said.Qatar has been mediating indirect negotiations between Palestinian resistance movement Hamas and Israel alongside Egypt and the United States.Al-Ansari declined to comment on specific meetings held in the United States between high-level Qatari officials and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.He said that he did not have a specific timetable for Witkoff's visit to Doha.On another note, Dr al-Ansari welcomed the ceasefire announcement in the southern Syrian city of Sweida. He said, "Qatar is in constant contact with the Syrian government on various issues."In response to a question about the Israeli raids on the Syrian province, al-Ansari condemned "Israel's irresponsible policies in the region" and the raids targeting Syria and Lebanon.He added: "We cannot accept the absence of accountability for Israel's absurd behaviour in the region. There must be international intervention to stop Israel's absurd behaviour in the region."Al-Ansari noted that "communications are ongoing with our brothers in Syria to provide security and economic support."

In a series highlighting prominent figures who have left their mark and contributions in the development of journalism and media, the Qatar Press Centre (QPC) has continued its "Pioneers of World Journalism".The centre is showcasing the stories of media figures, their successes, and their inspiring experiences for generations of journalists and media professionals.Among these is Carl von Ossietzky, the German journalist and activist who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1935, despite being arrested on charges of high treason for publishing information related to Germany's secret military rearmament.Ossietzky was born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1889.At high school, he was not a distinguished student, and he left school at the age of 17 to become a government administrative official.Ossietzky soon pursued a career in journalism and succeeded in it.His first journalistic article was published in the pages of the newspaper *Free People.Ossietzky later wrote on topics about theatre, women's issues, and the early problems of automobile use. He also focused on political and cultural developments during the Weimar period.On July 5, 1913, he wrote an article criticising a pro-military court ruling in Erfurt, and was subsequently summoned to appear before the court.His opposition to Germany's military policy in its final years and its armaments led him to become a pacifist, opposing all forms of war and violence.In 1916, he was drafted into the army despite his deteriorating health and was forced to join the army during WWI.The massacres left him frightened and alarmed.Ossietzky became a voice against militarism and Nazism, becoming the secretary of the German Peace Society in Berlin, where he founded the monthly *Mitteilungsblatt, which first appeared in 1920.He also became a regular contributor, under the pseudonym Thomas Mörner, to the monthly *Moinsten Monatsheften.Ossietzky later served as foreign editor of the *Berliner Volkszeitung, the Berlin people's newspaper, known for its anti-war, neutral, and democratic editorial policy.He joined the *Tagebusch, a political weekly, in 1924.In the same year, Siegfried Jacobson took over as editor of *Die Weltbühne.During his tenure, a series of investigations were published on Germany's violation of the Treaty of Versailles by rebuilding its air force and training pilots in the Soviet Union.He also published an article by Walter Kreiser.However, Ossietzky, as the editor-in-chief, was tried for high treason and sentenced to 18 months in prison.He was mistreated in prison by the guards, forced to perform hard labour despite suffering a heart attack. He also contracted tuberculosis, and the government refused to release him.In 1934, his colleagues in the German League supported the idea of nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize.The Nobel Committee praised him as a defender of freedom of expression and a symbol of peace.This was the first time the award was given to an individual at odds with his country, and it helped mobilise public opinion in the fight against Nazism.When he was announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize in 1935, the German government prevented him from traveling to Norway to receive his award.The German press was also prohibited from commenting on the award.Ossietzky remained under constant surveillance until his death from tuberculosis in a Berlin hospital in 1938, after five years in prison.

Following the remarkable success of the Qatari Ardha event, part of the Ministry of Culture's participation in the Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan, the audience continued to receive positive feedback, given the diversity and beauty of the Qatari performances. The "Folk Arts" event dazzled visitors with the rhythms and distinctive performances of the Qatari participants, who presented their heritage in a manner that was well-received and admired by the audience.Amidst the crowd, distinguished folk arts performances were presented, including the "Fajri" art performed by artist Omar Bou Saqr, along with other folk arts performed by the participating band.Folk arts attracted significant interest from the Japanese audience at the Qatari Pavilion.Folk arts are among the oldest arts in the region, characterized by group performance, diversity, and authenticity.These events are part of the Qatari Ministry of Culture's participation program, including the Qatari Ardha and musical performances at the Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2020. These events underscore the ability and presence of Qatari arts and heritage to engage people. This reflects the Ministry of Culture's vision of promoting communication, cultural exchange, and preserving heritage.The performances were met with widespread interaction from visitors, who expressed their admiration for the beauty of the rhythms and the harmony of the performance. Attendees stood in long lines to take photos and record videos of this art form, which carries Qatar's rich heritage to Japan.This participation is also part of the Ministry of Culture's efforts to promote understanding and cultural exchange, and to present performances and events that express Qatari heritage at international forums.It is worth noting that Expo 2025 Osaka is one of the most prominent global events, attracting wide participation from various countries and serving as an international platform for exchanging knowledge, highlighting diverse cultures, and future initiatives in development, innovation, and the arts.

Qatar is engaging with Israel and Hamas over the ‘framework for talks’, Dr Majed al-Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), said.During the weekly media briefing Tuesday, he said that Qatar’s mediation efforts aim to end the ongoing war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.Dr Majed al-Ansari stated that talks are being held with each delegation separately to establish a negotiation framework, adding that while detailed discussions have not yet begun, there are positive early signals.He also stressed that it is too early to predict outcomes, and that the process requires time and continued international co-ordination.The spokesperson for the MoFA said: "Israeli and Hamas delegations are in Doha. Mediator teams from Qatar and Egypt are holding separate talks with both sides to bridge gaps on key issues."A framework is being developed to support faster, more effective negotiations, but it’s still early to assess progress."Dr al-Ansari noted that the process to reach a deal requires time and a clear timeline for achieving results cannot be provided.He added: “I don’t think that I can give any timeline at the moment, but I can say right now that we will need time for this.” He said that mediators—Qatar, Egypt and the United States—are currently trying to bridge the gaps between Hamas and Israel in order to reach a deal.

As part of its commitment to expanding the circle of photography and videography professionals, the Qatar Photography Center (QPC), affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, has launched a series of specialised courses at its headquarters in Katara Cultural Village Foundation.The course "How to Make a Picture Last," presented by trainer Saleh al-Marri, was held Monday and will be conducted Tuesday too.The course covers several topics, including: how a photographer views a scene with an artistic vision, the correct use of lines within the composition, and image analysis as a basic approach to understanding creative photography. It also covers the steps to build a meaningful photography project, as well as interactive practical exercises.Abdulaziz al-Kubaisi, Deputy Director of the QPC, said: “These courses have been carefully designed within an annual schedule. During the summer, the focus is on courses targeting beginners, teaching them the basics of photography, lightroom, and lighting. Advanced courses, such as portrait photography and nature photography, will then be offered”.He explained that photography is an easy and enjoyable hobby, and that everyone can develop their skills through mobile phones, which have made it easier for all to enter the field of photography. He noted that enhancing this talent is achieved through training and skill development, which the centre is keen to implement.He said lighting is an essential element in photography for high-quality images, noting that mornings and afternoons are the best times for photography. He emphasised that talent is essential, but learning the rules is even more essential.Al-Kubaisi stated that the QPC aims to develop the hobby of photography, encourage photographers, enhance their capabilities, and develop their artistic talents in this field, in addition to keeping pace with technological developments, while maintaining its core identity as a platform for photography.He said: “In addition to that, it is keen to strengthen its cooperation with international companies such as Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Sony, and others. Thanks to these partnerships, the Qatari photographer has become an ambassador and certified trainer for them, in addition to the important role played by the Ministry of Culture through organising exhibitions and events, perhaps the most prominent of which is the Doha Photography Festival last year, and the launch of the Doha Photography Award on the sidelines of this festival."All of these factors have led to supporting photographers, advancing the artistic scene, and developing the photography movement within the country, in addition to discovering the creativity of Qatari youth in this field, through courses, workshops, competitions, and exhibitions throughout the year.”

The Qatar Press Center (QPC) has organised a political analysis course that was presented by Dr Mustafa Osman al-Amin, Head of the Department of Islam and International Affairs, Professor of International Relations at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and former Sudanese minister of foreign affairs.With 20 participants in attendance, Prof Saad bin Mohammed al-Rumaihi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Qatar Press Center (QPC), distributed certificates to the participants and presented the center's shield to Dr Mustafa Osman al-Amin.Dr al-Amin emphasized that political analysis has become an academic discipline and method taught at the world's most prestigious universities as a branch of political science. It has gained importance in light of the political developments witnessed by the world, the struggle between major powers, and the succession of political crises and natural disasters. All of these issues require careful analysis to raise awareness among the general public and to understand the reality of what is happening in the world.He explained that political analysis helps decision-makers understand reality and develop strategies for the future. He noted that political analysis varies between descriptive analysis, which describes the current situation; interpretive analysis, which explains the reasons behind what happened; and predictive analysis, which enables decision-makers to make appropriate decisions, either to confront developments, contain them, or fully address them.Prof al-Rumaihi spoke about the centre's role in qualifying personnel in specialised fields, noting that the 'political analysis' course aligns with the centre's vision of building a solid knowledge base capable of interpreting and analyzing events according to scientific and professional foundations, contributing to the production of informed and influential political content.He thanked Dr Mustafa Othman al-Amin for presenting the course and his keenness to cooperate with the centre to enhance political awareness through scientific and methodological tools. Sadiq Mohammed al-Ammari, director-general of the QPC, announced the centre's readiness to organise an advanced course in political analysis in response to trainees' requests to develop their skills, especially since most participants hold positions that require a deeper understanding of political dimensions, qualifying them to analyze current events.The director-general said: "The centre will continue to offer more specialized courses in the coming period, including new courses in media protocol, AI, advanced political analysis, and news presentation, to hone the skills of those working in the field of journalism and media with the latest global developments in the profession." The participants appreciated the efforts of the centre in offering courses that meet the needs of all groups, whether students or employees.

Qatar Museums has announced the selection of artists Zainab al-Shibani and Maryam al-Humaid to participate in the Akoje Residency programme, in collaboration with Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, which is being held at Dumfries House, the headquarters of the King's Foundation in Scotland.This participation marks a significant achievement on both the artistic and cultural levels, as Zainab and Maryam will be the first artists from the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region to be selected to participate in this prestigious programme, which aims to support artists from around the world by providing them with a space to live, create, and engage with diverse artistic and cultural environments.The Akoje Residency programme, in collaboration with the King's Foundation, aims to provide a fertile environment for contemporary artists to develop their creative projects and engage with local Scottish culture within the inspiring historical and natural setting of Dumfries House. This house is a cultural landmark sponsored by the King's Foundation.During the residency, the two artists will have the opportunity to focus on their artistic practice, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, exploring new paths of creativity and artistic experimentation, and engaging with the local and international art community.This collaboration between Akoje Residency and Qatar Museums reflects the commitment of cultural institutions in Qatar to empowering and supporting artists from the region on the international stage. It also underscores the importance of cultural exchange in building bridges between communities and promoting global artistic dialogue.The participation of Zainab al-Shibani and Maryam al-Humaid in this programme represents a qualitative step towards empowering female artists from the region and enhancing the cultural presence of SWANA creators on the international stage.At a time when the world is reconsidering cultural representation and geographical diversity in the global art scene, this residency serves as a platform that celebrates two female voices offering contemporary visions rooted in local culture, yet intersecting with universal human and aesthetic issues.This achievement not only highlights individual talent, but also reflects a shift in cultural policies towards greater inclusion of artists from non-Western backgrounds, calling for a reshaping of contemporary art narratives from a more pluralistic and equitable perspective.It also demonstrates the importance of institutional partnerships that bring together the Global South and established cultural institutions in Europe to create equitable opportunities for knowledge and creative exchange.

The Qatar Press Center (QPC) organised a book signing ceremony for Dr Rabia al-Kuwari, Lover of Journalism and Heritage, by journalist Babiker Issa, and Tarweeda, by journalist Hadeel Saber. The book by Saber includes a collection of political articles on the Palestinian reality and the repercussions of the aggression on Gaza. These books are part of a series of books recently published by the centre.The ceremony was held at the centre’s headquarters, attended by a large number of journalists, media professionals, and intellectuals. This comes as part of the centre’s commitment to enriching its press library with a selection of books that shed light on pioneers of Qatari journalism and support the Palestinian cause.Sadiq Mohammed al-Ammari, Director-General of the Qatar Press Center, said: “Today we are witnessing the launch of two new books, the first about the late Dr Rabia bin Sabah al-Kuwari, Professor of Journalism and Media at Qatar University, prepared by journalist Babiker Issa.”He added: “The second book is Tarweeda by colleague Hadeel Saber, a journalist with Al Sharq newspaper, and it includes a series of distinguished political articles about Palestine, which were published over the recent period.”Journalist Babiker Issa said: “Talking about the late Dr Rabia al-Kuwari is long and cannot be contained in one book, given his contributions, achievements, and rich academic and journalistic legacy.” He added: “The book is 350-page long, and this is just a small part of what we have tried to shed light on.”He emphasised that Dr al-Kuwari had a passion for children’s literature from an early age, and preceded many of his media colleagues in this field. He had many positive influences in many areas. He noted that writing the biography of Dr Rabia al-Kuwari was the idea of the Qatar Press Center, which seeks to document the biographies of prominent figures and pioneers of Qatari journalism throughout history.He noted that he had reviewed many of the late Dr al-Kuwari’s works, having met a large number of Qatari figures and documented their biographies with great depth. He often focused on the period before oil extraction, and he had made numerous attempts to record popular proverbs and many other sayings.Journalist Hadeel Saber said that the word “Tarweeda” refers to a type of Palestinian folklore song that first appeared under the British occupation and was used as an incomprehensible code so that the colonisers could not understand its words. “Tarweeda” was also used to pass private messages between detainees in occupation prisons and their families.She explained that the book is a collection of political articles that coincided with the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, specifically in the period following the Al-Aqsa Intifada on October 7. She noted that the 50 articles were the simplest weapons of resistance, expressing their stance on the suffering and struggle of the people of Gaza, the legitimate rights of the Palestinians, and the justice of the Palestinian cause, which represents the cause of all Arabs.A number of attendees expressed their admiration for the books on display, commending the quality of their content, the importance of their topics, and the role they play in documenting the media landscape and strengthening the presence of Qatari journalism in the intellectual and cultural arena. They noted that the Qatar Press Center plays a significant and important role in enriching cultural and media life in Qatar through these distinguished initiatives.

The 37th Doha Theater Festival hosted the performance of the play "The Captain.” This profound and complex theatrical experience departs from the traditional style of performance and opens a vast intellectual space.It touches upon questions of existence, leadership, and identity, and unfolds the files of contemporary human conflict in a dramatic and philosophical framework based on symbolism and metaphor, addressing both the conscience and the mind.The play, whose script was written by Dr Khaled al-Jaber and directed by Ali Mirza Mahmoud, is a dramatic adventure that invites involvement and raises human problems and their complexities, engaging the audience in an internal confrontation with their own anxieties, questions, and fragility.It's not a story to be told, but a crisis lived out on stage, its features defined by sea storms, conflicting positions, and characters searching for a captain—meaning, authority, leadership, sovereignty, control, and a safe haven to lean on in a turbulent sea.The events take place on a ship adrift, amidst an endless ocean, in an emergency situation that seems to have begun long ago and remains unclear when or how it will end. Leadership is absent, and the passengers suddenly find themselves without a captain or anyone to steer the ship.Here, the crisis erupts not from outside, but from within. With the absence of a leader, divisions begin to emerge, and anxiety turns into a fierce intellectual struggle among the passengers over who has the right to command and who can save the ship from the mysterious fate that awaits it.Each character represents an intellectual or visionary trend, and a broad debate takes place between them that transcends the ship's boundaries, reflecting contemporary Arab and human reality.Through this conflict, the gradual collapse of trust, the rise of suspicion, and the disintegration of understanding are explored, making the ship a grand metaphor for modern society, at a pivotal moment that confronts everyone with their shared destiny.Director Ali Mirza Mahmoud chose to take the script to its maximum visual and aural impact, providing the viewer with a complete sensory theatrical experience.The stage is not merely a space for the audience to be entertained; it becomes the ship itself. The viewer not only watches, but also engages in the experience, feeling the ground sway beneath them, hearing the waves, seeing the darkness, and breathing the tension.Ali Mirza said: “Every sound of a wave, every tear in the sails, every spot of light, we designed it to be an unspoken sentence. The play is inundated with silent emotion and an inner turmoil that doesn't need to be spoken to be understood.”

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt has hosted the Arab Book Award symposium.The Arab Book Award, one of the most important cultural awards in the Arab world, was established in 2023 under the patronage of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani.Participating in the symposium were the award’s media adviser Prof Hanan al-Fayyad, media co-ordinator Dr Imtenan al-Samadi, and Dr Medhat Issa, the director of the Manuscript Centre and Museum at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.Bibliotheca Alexandrina director Prof Ahmed Zayed said that the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is keen to support the Arab cultural movement and promote intellectual and knowledge initiatives that contribute to raising cultural awareness and promoting serious scientific production.Prof al-Fayyad spoke about the award’s objectives and categories, and called for the advancement of written Arabic content and encouraging writers and research institutions to continue contributing in light of current challenges.She emphasised that the award seeks to encourage authentic intellectual production and support research projects that contribute to building knowledge, developing awareness, and fostering a scientific and intellectual renaissance.It also encourages, she said, publishers and those involved in the book industry to promote and develop Arabic publishing, enabling it to compete globally.Prof al-Fayyad said that the judging of works competing in the award is carried out by specialist committees according to precise, transparent, and objective criteria, including academic originality, research depth, quality of presentation, treatment, documentation, and other criteria.Furthermore, participation must fall within one of the five fields of knowledge covered by the award: literary and linguistic studies, Sharia and Islamic studies, historical studies, social and philosophical studies, dictionaries and encyclopedias, and text editing.Dr al-Samadi presented a paper on The Role of Awards in the Book Industry and Stimulating Quality Authorship (Intellectual, Cognitive, and Creativity), where she reviewed the history of writing.At the conclusion of the symposium, Prof al-Fayyad presented honorary shields and certificates of appreciation to a number of institutions and writers.

The Dreama Orphan Care Centre has concluded the "Media Ambassadors Dreama" programme, held in partnership with Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI).“This initiative offered our children a space to grow and express themselves, and an opportunity to discover their potential and refine their abilities in the fields of media and communication,” said Dreama executive director HE Sheikha Najla bint Ahmed al-Thani during the graduation ceremony.“The ‘Media Ambassadors’ programme was not just a technical training – it was a human experience that reflects our vision at Dreama: to raise a generation that believes in itself, possesses the tools to tell its story, and participates in society not as passive recipients, but as active contributors,” she said.This initiative aimed to empower participating youth by strengthening their media skills, self-expression, communication, and content creation capabilities.The collaboration reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to preparing a confident generation capable of creating positive change in society.Over the course of several months, participants took part in a series of specialised training workshops covering Arabic language, building self-confidence, youth broadcasting, artificial intelligence (AI), voice and presentation techniques, and the fundamentals of media production.A team of expert trainers from the AJMI led the workshops, guiding the youth in developing key skills such as presenting, filming, and scriptwriting, while also introducing them to modern AI tools used in media.

As part of strengthening cultural and diplomatic relations, a delegation from the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding visited Uzbekistan's embassy in Doha Tuesday, where they met ambassador Ashraf Khodjaev.During the meeting, the envoy provided a detailed explanation of his country's strategic vision regarding bilateral relations with Qatar.Khodjaev spoke on the importance of cultural rapprochement between the two countries and the essential role that translation, along with joint initiatives, plays in building bridges of linguistic and intellectual communication between the two countries.The delegation gave a presentation on the vision and mission of the award, which aims to support the translation movement between Arabic and other international languages, promote the Arabic language, and enhance acculturation between Arab societies and the rest of the world.The award is the largest and most important award in its field and a key element in the cultural presence of Qatar on the international stage.During the meeting, the two sides also discussed possible avenues of co-operation and discussed in detail prospects for co-ordination and joint action during the next phase, serving shared goals and enhancing opportunities for implementing cultural projects and events in the near future.At the conclusion of the meeting, the delegation from the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding extended its sincere thanks and appreciation to the embassy of Uzbekistan, represented by Khodjaev, for the warm welcome and spirit of co-operation.The delegation also commended efforts in building strong strategic relationships with cultural partners in Qatar.

The Cultural Salon at the 34th Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), “From Inscription to Writing,” hosted a symposium titled “The Arabic Book: Between Reality and Hope.”Professor Hanan al-Fayyad, media advisor for the Arab Book Award, spoke at the symposium, which was attended by a select group of intellectuals, academics, and book lovers. The symposium was moderated by Dr Mohammed al-Rahawi, professor of Arabic language at Qatar University. Al-Fayyad reviewed the history of the Arabic book, from ancient inscriptions to the present era of interactive digital books.She noted that this long historical legacy makes the Arabic book not just a cultural product but a vessel of identity and a bearer of the nation's memory.She stated that despite the bright picture represented by the remarkable activity in publishing across a number of Arab countries — the rise in publishing houses, the diversity of publications, and the strong public turnout at book fairs such as the DIBF — it remains necessary to acknowledge the significant challenges facing the Arab book industry, most notably the decline in reading rates in many Arab societies.This is due to complex reasons, including weaknesses in the educational system, economic factors, the dominance of digital media, difficulties in publishing and distribution, the absence of a unified Arab book market, and fragile professional marketing strategies.She also warned of the dangers of digital piracy, which threaten authors’ rights and the sustainability of the publishing industry.She noted that the translation movement in the Arab world remains weak compared to aspirations — whether in transferring knowledge from international languages into Arabic or vice versa. This deprives the Arab reader of the opportunity to engage with global human thought and prevents Arab creativity from reaching the wider world.Al-Fayyad called for the adoption of comprehensive national strategies to support the publishing industry, including enhanced infrastructure and legislation, economic incentives, and better integration between cultural and educational institutions — emphasising the importance of developing both form and content.Dr Al-Fayyad reviewed the details of the Arab Book Award, stressing that it is not just a prize but rather an integrated cultural project, supported generously by His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, may God protect him. The award aims to bring about a qualitative shift in the Arab intellectual landscape by honouring distinguished contributions and fostering a spirit of competition in scientific and literary production.She explained that the award covers five main fields: linguistic and literary studies, Sharia and historical studies, dictionaries and textual editing, and social and philosophical studies. It is granted in two categories: the "Single Achievement" category, for books that constitute a qualitative addition, and the "Achievement" category, which honours individuals or institutions with extensive cultural contributions.In a related context, the Arabic Book Award had a notable presence at the DIBF, with a special pavilion that attracted significant engagement from visitors and intellectuals — reflecting the award’s commitment to enhancing the visibility of Arabic books and elevating their status in both the Arab and international cultural spheres.Dr Naji Al-Sharif, Executive Director of the award, said: "Our participation in the DIBF stems from the core mission of the award, which is to contribute to enriching the Arabic library by encouraging individuals and institutions to produce high-quality knowledge."He added, "We appreciate the researchers’ long-term efforts in research and writing, and we strive to highlight and honour them." He emphasised the award's commitment to supporting serious publishing houses that value the quality of their books — both in form and in content.He also stressed that the book fair represents a golden opportunity for readers of all backgrounds and ideologies to gather and assess the impact of cultural production on society.Qatari historian Dr Mustafa Aqeel remarked that paper books remain a cherished part of cultural life, despite the widespread availability of e-books. "I feel extremely happy when I browse through the shelves of paper books. They carry the spirit of history and creativity."Aqeel, one of the winners of the first edition of the award, expressed his pride in receiving such recognition, noting that the Arabic Book Award offers true support for researchers and thinkers, motivating them to continue creating and innovating.Nominations for the Arabic Book Award close on Friday, May 23.

The fifth edition of ‘Qatar Economic Forum, powered by Bloomberg' will be held in Doha from May 20 to 22 under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.At a press briefing Sunday , the Organizing Committee reflected on five years of the ‘Qatar Economic Forum, powered by Bloomberg’ and its impact on Qatar and the region, while also sharing what to expect from this year’s edition.Speakers included Jassim Mohamed al-Khori, CEO of Media City Qatar and Member of the Organizing Committee; HE Mubarak bin Ajlan al-Kuwari, Representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Member of Organizing Committee; and HE Saleh bin Majid al-Khulaifi, Representative of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Member of Organizing Committee.They emphasized the Forum’s growing role in advancing Qatar National Vision 2030 and positioning Doha as a hub for global dialogue. The Forum this year is held under the theme, “The Road to 2030: Transforming the Global Economy.” Underscoring its impact, the officials noted that the Forum has directly contributed over QR 177.5mn to Qatar’s GDP and created more than 900 full-time jobs between 2022 and 2024.Beyond Qatar, it has also delivered measurable results for the nation’s international visibility. In 2024 alone, the Forum reached over 300mn homes, delivered QR 67.6 mn in marketing value, and contributed to an 18 % increase in global positive perception of Qatar.“Since 2021, Media City Qatar has partnered with Bloomberg Media to build the Forum into a global platform for dialogue and cooperation," Jassim Mohamed al-Khori said."In just five years, the ‘Qatar Economic Forum, powered by Bloomberg’ has positioned Qatar as a trusted convening power, uniting influential voices at a time of global division and uncertainty.”“Qatar has always believed in the power of dialogue to shape progress,” HE Mubarak bin Ajlan al-Kuwari, said. “The Forum reflects that belief by bringing together global voices at a time when common understanding is urgently needed. Each edition builds new bridges, and as organisers, we remain focused on creating a space where real cooperation can take root.”HE Saleh bin Majid al-Khulaifi said: “The Qatar Economic Forum is where policy, business, and innovation come together to tackle the big questions facing the global economy.”This year’s Forum will bring together over 2,500 global leaders across five key pillars: geopolitics, globalization and trade; energy supplies and security; technology hype and reality; business and investment outlook; and sports and entertainment. The speaker lineup includes prominent figures such as heads of state, ministers, and CEOs.Some confirmed speakers include HE Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs, HE Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari, Minister of Finance; HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud al-Thani, Governor, Qatar Central Bank, Chairman, Qatar Investment Authority; HE Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiya, Minister of Municipality; HE Saad bin Ali al- Kharji, Chairman, Qatar Tourism; HE Khalid al- Obaidli, President, Real Estate Regulatory Authority – Aqarat, and HE Hassan al-Thawadi, Managing Director, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy; Ryan M. Lance, Chairman & CEO of Conoco Phillips; Donald Trump Jr., Executive Vice President at The Trump Organization; and Mary Callahan Erdoes, CEO, Asset & Wealth Management, J.P. Morgan; with Elon Musk joining virtually.

A number of young people have emphasised that reading remains one of the most profound forms of human interaction at a time when technology and digital worlds have become parts of our daily life.Speaking on the sidelines of the 34th Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) which concluded Saturday evening, they noted a renewed interest in books, but with a new spirit that combines the smell of paper with the touch of a screen.Library shelves are no longer the sole determining factor in what is read; digital recommendations, influencer opinions, and platform algorithms have also entered the fray, reshaping the tastes of today's readers.Amid this cultural shift, new reading patterns are emerging that reveal much about the priorities of the younger generation. It appears that young people are seeking not only entertainment or escape, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. They note that many of these choices are based on recommendations from social media platforms, where influencers play a pivotal role in guiding readers' tastes.Ahmed Ammar, a regular visitor to the Doha International Book Fair, offered advice to young people on the importance of making reading a daily habit. Not limited to study or work, but rather a fun hobby that contributes to refining character and developing thought.He also emphasised the importance of starting with choosing short novels, which help novice readers build experience and identify their literary inclinations before moving on to more complex books.Turki Ali explained that he enjoys reading political books and military expert analyses of major wars. Noting that this type of book enriches the reader's mind and provides a deeper understanding of historical events.Turki emphasised that paper books still hold a special place among readers, not only for their cognitive value, but also for the integrated mental and psychological experience they provide. He added, "Some old paper books are no longer available in book shops, and electronic versions are now the only way to access them."Abdulaziz al-Abdullah believes that paper books still maintain their place among readers, despite the digital revolution and the significant development in communication methods that now meet users' needs quickly and easily.He explained his preference for paper books by saying that they provide greater comfort for the eyes compared to electronic screens, especially during long reading periods or before bedtime.

Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) announced the launch of two new digital platforms: "Q37" and "Q Business." This is a qualitative step aimed at enhancing Qatar's media presence on the international digital scene and contributing to achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 in the areas of social, human, and economic development.The English-language Q37 platform aims to provide media content that reflects Qatari reality in a reliable and authentic manner. Conveying the Qatari narrative to other communities through a modern, creative digital vision. The platform focuses on providing audiovisual content characterized by honesty and objectivity, keeping pace with the aspirations of the modern digital audience.Issa bin Abdullah al-Muhtami, Director of Q37 TV, stated: "We aspire for the platform to be reliable and distinguished in producing and innovating content, presenting a realistic and authentic image of Qatar to other communities. This is achieved by redefining the relationship between media producers and audiences in light of the rapid digital transformations."The Q Business platform is a specialized digital platform focused on covering news on economic and financial developments, presenting its content through short, interactive clips, making specialised topics more accessible and attractive to a wide range of audiences.The launch of the two platforms is part of the QMC's efforts to support national content and keep pace with the technological changes taking place in the contemporary media environment. As well as enhancing Qatar's position as an influential and reliable regional media hub.Through these initiatives, the QMC seeks to build digital media that reflects the country's aspirations for progress and development, and meets the needs of local and international audiences in terms of diversity of presentations and rapid access to information.The Corporation also affirms its commitment to providing content that enhances national identity and supports cultural dialogue between Qatar and the world, through renewed media platforms that adhere to professional standards and innovation in delivering media messages.

Widespread participation at the 34th Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), held under the theme From Engraving to Writing, reveals the vitality of the cultural scene amid an atmosphere brimming with creativity and knowledge.Taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), the DIBF has become an event where minds and ideas meet and the experiences of publishers, creators, and the public intersect in a space of interaction and enlightenment.Local, Arab, and international publishing houses are presenting their latest publications in various fields, from literature, and science, to children's and young adult books, as well as specialised artistic and educational publications.The diversity extends to the methods of presentation and interaction with the public, reflecting the development of the publishing industry and the trends of readers in this era.This year's exhibition showcases the vibrant cultural landscape in Qatar and the region, reaffirming the importance of books as a tool for building awareness, strengthening identity, and opening up to the world.The crowded pavilions and accompanying activities, which attract a wide audience of all ages, demonstrate the community's passion for reading and its eagerness to acquire knowledge.One such activity was a seminar on "Cultural Footsteps: The Nomas Journey to Malaysia", where a number of students spoke about this unique cultural and educational experience, highlighting the impact the trip had them.A special session was organised for the "Qatar Reads" initiative, aiming to introduce visitors to the initiative's objectives and its most prominent publications.The session was presented by programme development officer Nada Behzad, who noted that "Qatar Reads" does not wait for the public to come to the library, but rather seeks to reach them where they are.The 34th DIBF introduces new features, such as a service added to facilitate the visitor’s tour of the exhibition through smart screens distributed across the Reading Guide service platforms.This helps beneficiaries identify their list of reading interests more quickly, and allows them to receive a list of their favourite books via e-mail after completing a questionnaire.

Among the new and popular publishers in Qatar at the 34th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) Gulf Times interviewed author and publisher, Mohammed Salaan al-Marri, who stated: “Nibras Publishing and Distribution House is participating in the 34th DIBF with 15 titles over the past year, launching seven of them at this year’s edition of the book fair. “All books are written by Qatari authors, with the exception of one by Palestinian author Faten Azzam. All books focus on knowledge, including novels, scientific books, and specialised media works.” Al-Marri added: “The house has programmes that support digital literature, which includes digital books alongside paper books, but the house also explores literary practices and digital books. “Therefore, Nibras House makes all its publications available on its online store for a QR5 subscription for a week. This is intended to promote the global spread of these books, making them easily accessible.” He further said: “The house offers a podcast or bookcast, which are audio summaries of all its publications. As well as the Siraj Cultural Club, a club that brings together young people in Qatar, both citizens and residents, for cultural activities. “The publishing house also provides the Dar Nibras Literary Fund, which subsidises Qatari authors’ publishing costs. This fund is funded by government ministries, contributing to the development and enhancement of the Qatari library with publications by Qatari authors.” Al-Marri commented: “Our most notable publications this year are by Dr Ahmed Abdulmalik, a Qatari, Gulf, and Arab narrator, with two publications: When the Sails Leave, a collection of very short stories, and Meliora, a novel about an air hostess. “We also have a book on children’s libraries, their organisation, and their arrangement by Faten Azzam. A memoir by a Qatari librarian, Supervisor on an Old Shelf, summarises professional practices. Another publication, The Art of Influence, explores the secrets of media campaigns by Mohammed Salaan al-Marri, the owner of Nibras Publishing. We are participating with these titles. “We wish our staff success, this is the first participation in the DIBF for Nibras Publishing and Distribution, which has been in operation for a year.” Al-Marri said that the turnout at the publishing house is excellent, and that attendance at the fair in general has increased significantly, which is truly heartening.