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Tuesday, March 19, 2024 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.
 Joseph Varghese
Joseph Varghese
A journalist with a penchant for reporting events, Joseph Varghese digs deep to unearth facts. With several years of experience, including at Gulf Times, Joseph handles health, science and technology, IT and education in addition to everyday developments.
Ragy Thomas
Qatar
'AI revolution is just beginning'

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to play a big role for the next two decades or so, as what has been witnessed so far is just the beginning of a great revolution that is to unravel, a speaker at the Web Summit Qatar 2024 told Gulf Times.“Every software is going to be affected by AI and we will witness many more transitions and changes in the coming years,” stated Ragy Thomas, founder and CEO of Sprinklr – an enterprise social technology serving more than 1,000 enterprise brands globally.An innovative startup that provides a customer experience management platform, New York-based software company Sprinklr has already made a mark in the technology sector with its innovative software.“Sprinklr provides a single platform for large businesses to do their entire customer services right from marketing and advertisement and to giving feedback on one single platform,” Thomas explained.Many of the large companies in the world use the software for digital outreach. “Many of the social media ads use our platform. As many as 83 of the top 100 global companies use our platform. When you see the social media ads of a leading company, it is possible that the other side of the message is supported by Sprinklr,” Thomas remarked.“We have 26 offices around the world and customers from all over the world as our companies operate in every part of the world,” he continued.According to Thomas, Sprinklr integrates popular communication providers natively so the support teams can absorb both inbound and outbound voice calls with dexterity.“Sprinklr platform helps to reduce the average handling time and cost with the Sprinklr’s AI-powered omnichannel ticket routing, automated workflows and AI-suggested responses. It can shift away from robotic, impersonal messages to conversational bots that can drive meaningful conversations and resolve issues with minimal agent intervention. It also helps deliver humanised support that can delight customers,” he highlighted.

HE Hassan al-Thawadi addressing the session Tuesday. PICTURE: Web Summit Qatar 2024
Qatar
Self-belief helped Qatar deliver a great World Cup: al-Thawadi

The secretary general of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy HE Hassan al-Thawadi, noted that Qatar’s stupendous delivery of FIFA World Cup 2002 was due to the self-belief in setting up goals and realising them.Al-Thawadi was interacting with Ayman Mohyeldin of MSNBC at the ongoing Web Summit Qatar 2024 Tuesday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.“What guided us all through the preparation to the World Cup was the unwavering belief in our ability as we set very ambitious goals which guided our team to achieve them. Our leadership believed and supported us thoroughly to realise our goals. We harnessed this opportunity to try to achieve every single aspect of that opportunity and finally delivered a great tournament,” al-Thawadi said.Al-Thawadi said that for 13 years, the entire organising team went through many difficult cycles and different challenges. “Every challenge we faced was an opportunity for us in achieving our goals. We had various difficulties but never ever did any doubt creep into our minds,” he noted.“It was the self-belief that took us forward despite criticism from various corners and cynicism that was raised against hosting the World Cup in Qatar. People raised several doubts about the compact World Cup, about the infrastructure as well several other aspects of the tournament. We entered into the process of hosting the World Cup knowing exactly what we wanted and what we can do,” explained, al-Thawadi.The official noted that building the bridges between the cultures was very important part of the whole effort. He said: “We were confident right from the beginning that we have a very talented population capable of accomplishing and achieving many things. It was the belief that the Arab World as well as the Middle East has the capability to set its own narrative and write its own story. In a sense, it was welcoming the entire world to be part of our story.”Al-Thawadi said that as a nation, Qatar always believes in the transformative power of sports and that is how the country approached the World Cup 2022.“We had hosted several major events but nothing of the magnitude of World Cup. We had worked with the previous World Cups, Champions League as well as Olympics to understand closely about major events and by 2022 we had a great team of workforce who had every idea of hosting the biggest sporting event in the world. Any major event that comes to Qatar will be elevated to the next level for the better,” he added.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser attended the opening ceremony of the forum. PICTURE: Aisha al-Musallam.
Qatar
Qatar to launch 3rd National Health Strategy this year

Qatar will launch the third National Health Strategy later this year, announced HE Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, Saturday while highlighting the transformation in healthcare in the country over the last decade.“As we close our 2nd National Health Strategy (2018-2024) which delivered positive changes to our patients, we look forward to launching our 3rd National Health Strategy later this year which will elaborate on the health targets set by the Third Qatar National Development Strategy (2024-2030) towards realising the Qatar National Vision 2030,” stated Dr al-Kuwari.The health minister was delivering the opening remarks at the 10th Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare taking place at Qatar National Convention Centre.Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, witnessed the opening ceremony of the forum, which is the largest of its kind in the region.As the forum marks its 10th anniversary, Dr al-Kuwari said that during the past 10 years of the Middle East Forum, Qatar’s healthcare system has undergone a remarkable transformation journey.She said : “Today we celebrate a decade of an inspiring, innovative and transformative collaboration between Hamad Medical Corporation and the Institute for Health Care Improvement (Boston) that has transcended borders and systems and that has connected thousands of healthcare leaders and practitioners from across the world with the singular aim of improving quality and safety for our patients and our healthcare workers.”“When most countries are used to steady growth, we have witnessed a phenomenal expansion in the health sector to match our population’s need and our country’s ambitions and plans. Our public and private sector beds have nearly doubled, and we have seen the addition of Sidra Medicine in 2016 and the Military Medical City Hospital in 2024. Our Primary Health Care Corporation opened 13 new state-of-the-art health and wellness centres, significantly improving primary care provision in the community,” explained the minister.“Today we celebrate our commitment to excellence and our wonderful journey which has led Qatar being recognised as a global benchmark for excellence and innovation. But more importantly today we re-affirm our unwavering ambition to deliver the best care possible for every patient, every time,” continued, Dr al-Kuwari.The minister highlighted that in 2023, Qatar had five hospitals rank among the top 250 academic medical centres in the world with two achieving top 100 ranking highlighting the commitment to combining patient care, medical research, and health education to achieve the best outcomes and experiences for the patients.Dr al-Kuwari also pointed to the resilience of Qatar’s healthcare combating Covid-19. “During Covid-19 our whole of government approach, the strength and resilience of our health systems and our wonderful healthcare workers ensured that we had one of the lowest fatality rates in the world and had close to zero hospital acquired Covid infections to patients and staff. These efforts have been recognised globally ranking Qatar’s Covid response amongst the best in the world,” she noted.“During the World Cup 2022, our state-of-the-art health services, our public health initiatives in collaboration with the World Health Organisation and our Healthy Cities accreditation made the Qatar 2022 World Cup one of the most healthy World Cups in history despite being at the tail end of the Covid-19 pandemic,” emphasised the minister.“Our training and improvement programmes now cover the whole sector in Qatar, with more than nine private sector hospitals participating in the improvement training and practical programmes in 2023. We have localised the online courses and are providing these in Arabic to make it accessible to all Arabic countries and are currently establishing training opportunities and partnerships for health providers within the Mena region,” added the minister.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza attends the opening of the Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare. PICTURE: AR al-Baker.
Qatar
Sheikha Moza attends Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare opening session

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended Saturday the opening of the Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare.The Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare, now in its 10th year, is a collaboration between Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and the US-based Institute of Healthcare Improvement (IHI). It is the biggest event dedicated to healthcare quality improvement in the regionHE Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari, Minister of Public Health; Dr Hans Henri P Kluge, regional director for Europe, World Health Organisation (WHO); Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean; Kedar Mate, president and chief executive officer, IHI; and Dr Don Berwick, president Emeritus and Senior Fellow at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement were present on the occasion along with several health ministers from many countries.Held at Qatar National Convention Centre, more than 2,500 healthcare professionals from Qatar and the region are attending this year’s three day forum both in-person and online.Delivering the opening remarks, Dr al-Kuwari highlighted the positive and transformative effect the Middle East Forum on Quality and Safety in Healthcare has had on Qatar’s healthcare landscape over the decade.“Today we celebrate our commitment to excellence and our wonderful journey which has led Qatar to being recognised as a global benchmark for excellence and innovation. But more importantly today we re-affirm our unwavering ambition to deliver the best care possible for every patient, every time,” said Dr al-Kuwari.The minister went on to highlight that the partnership with IHI was born out of the aspirations of the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the first National Development Strategy (2011-2016) set by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and the guiding principles of Qatar’s first National Health Strategy developed and launched by Her Highness Sheikha Moza, in her capacity as chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Supreme Council of Health and Vice Chairperson of the Supreme Committee of Health at that time.The opening ceremony also featured addresses by Dr Abdullatif al-Khal, deputy chief medical officer, HMC and co-chair of the forum; Kedar Mate and Dr Don Berwick. They highlighted the importance of a sustained commitment to quality and safety in healthcare to deliver the best patient outcomes.The other speakers at the 2024 forum included Dr Amelia Latu Afuhaamango Tuipulotu, chief nursing officer of the World Health Organisation and Jason Caldwell, world record breaking ocean rower and endurance athlete.The 2024 edition of the forum is focused on five learning tracks for the attendees: Quality and Safety; Population Health; Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare; Applied Improvement and, Person-Centred Care.Over the last 10 years, the forum has driven quality improvement and transformation across the healthcare landscape and has seen 26,000 attendees over the decade of the event; 444,000 professional education learning hours for healthcare professionals and 800 expert speakers form Qatar, the region and internationally.There is also an accompanying poster presentation and an exhibition at the forum which will conclude Sunday.

Gulf Times
Qatar
Researchers advocate 3 theories for data-driven decision-making in healthcare

A group of researchers have advocated three theories that focus for data-driven decision-making in healthcare.According to a study published on QScience.com, ‘Data-driven Decision-making: A Review of Theories and Practices in Healthcare’, these theories can help form well-judged decisions in healthcare and make them applied in various contexts.The authors of the article, Chloe Ile, South African Medical Research Council; Charlene Ile, Explore AI, Cape Town, South Africa and Christine Ile, Livingstone Hospital, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, categorise Classical Decision Theory; Ottawa Decision Support Framework and Bayesian Decision Theory as three methods to make use of data effectively, highlighting the benefits of such practices for better healthcare decisions.“ Use of data for healthcare decision-making has numerous benefits, including increasing knowledge of user demographics and needs enabling adequate planning of healthcare resources and services, and providing a roadmap of decisions made to ensure stakeholder accountability,” state, the authors in the article. However, they note that despite these clear benefits, frameworks and theories guiding decision making in healthcare remain under-utilised and therefore they have presented these decision-making theories that focus on data.Classical Decision Theory- the study of choices to be considered when making a decision- and its modern iterations emphasise the decision-making process and the use of data in this process. It is divided into descriptive and normative decision theories. Normative Decision Theory points to the prerequisites that should be in place to reach rational decision-making. Descriptive Decision Theory seeks to explain and predict how people make decisions. In both, three key elements are described: the decision, the decision-maker, and the decision-making process.Ottawa Decision Support Framework was developed based on expectancy-value, decisional conflict, and social support theories. It was designed to address health decisions which needed to be made because of a new circumstance or diagnosis, requiring careful deliberation due to unknown benefits and risks and needing more effort during the deliberation and implementation phase. This theory is employed when the decision relates to new diagnoses or treatments or when extensive deliberation is needed in uncertain circumstances.Bayesian Decision Theory considers existing knowledge and cost functions in decision-making. Uncertainty is inherent in the human experience and can be observed in almost every role, task, and function resulting in the implementation of solutions without a full understanding of the problem or decision. Therefore, it is a statistical decision model and aims to support decisions made in the face of doubt by shedding light on the uncertainties involved in the process.The study concludes that the healthcare system is a data-rich environment capable of supporting data-driven decision-making at both the individual level for patients or clients and the system level for organisations or national entities. “Data acquisition, storage, and processing are becoming integral pillars within the health sector, especially as fields such as telemedicine, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence continue to grow in popularity. To handle these data volumes and support data interpretation, Big Data analytics must be used with decision theory to move from observation to an informed conclusion or treatment plan,” concludes the study.

A section of the audience at the event. PICTURES: Thajudheen
Qatar
Doha Global South Health Policy initiative launched

In an effort to provide universal health coverage and ensure primary healthcare to the low and middle income countries in the Global South, the Middle East Council on Global Affairs and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, with the support of Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, have launched the Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative.The event held at the Sheraton Grand Doha on Monday, was attended by HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari, HE the Minister of State for International Co-operation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lolwah Rashid AlKhater, former minister HE Hessa al-Jaber, and Dr Chris Elias, president of the Global Development Division at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, among others.The two-day event is also attended by representatives from nine low-and-middle-income countries in Africa and Asia, alongside international experts and key stakeholders from Qatar, including the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Qatar Fund for Development, Qatar University, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University.The initiative aims to develop a collaborative platform for countries in the Global South to address their healthcare challenges, find actionable solutions to enhance their healthcare systems, support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, and address unmet healthcare needs.“Over the last decade, Qatar has developed enhanced primary healthcare services and infrastructures, focusing on prevention and early intervention to reduce the burden of disease and improve health outcomes,” HE Dr al-Kuwari noted in her remarks. “Through this initiative, in line with the internationally agreed global health strategies, we can collectively contribute to strengthening primary healthcare in the Global South, investing in its infrastructure, its workforce and its resources.”“Together we can build healthier, more resilient communities, and achieve the vision of health for all,” she added.“Focusing on public health issues in the Global South aligns very well with the development priorities of the country and the strategic vision of the Qatar Fund for Development,” HE al-Khater said.She affirmed Qatar’s commitment to supporting access to primary healthcare in the Global South, while ensuring that this support improves healthcare and development outcomes.A high-level panel discussion on *Enhancing Primary Healthcare Access in the Global South: Challenges and Solutions* was held on Monday.Assistant Minister of Public Health Dr Salih al-Marri, director of the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s Programme Management at the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office Dr Rana Hajjeh, member of the WHO’s Africa Regional Immunisation Technical Advisory Committee Deo Nshimirimana, African Leaders Malaria Alliance executive secretary Joy Phumaphi, and Dr Elias of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation participated in the panel discussion.Middle East Council on Global Affairs director Dr Tarik Yousef moderated the discussion which explored how Qatar, drawing from its own experience and role at the WHO and other international organisations, can support countries facing challenges in healthcare accessibility.At the discussion, Dr Elias noted that “over the last 20 years, the world has cut child mortality in half”.“Unfortunately, in the last decade, we’ve seen that progress slow down,” he continued. “To get back on track with reaching the Sustainable Development Goals, we need a more comprehensive approach that addresses the needs of community health workers, and I’m optimistic that through new partnerships like the one launched today in Doha, offering leaders from the Global South a platform to voice their priorities and challenges, we can once again accelerate progress.”Concluding the panel, Dr Yousef outlined the plan of action for the following two days, and added: “Our role is to facilitate these discussions and see how we can collectively help through this platform, which emphasises knowledge sharing, to identify and establish an agenda for the Global South by the Global South in shaping future health outcomes.”

HE Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari speaking at the event on Monday.
Qatar
Primary heallthcare the foundation of healthy society: al-Kuwari

Primary healthcare is the foundation for a healthy society and the cornerstone of the health system, HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari noted on Monday. In her opening address at the launch of the Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative, HE Dr al-Kuwari stated that primary healthcare provides comprehensive and holistic care not only for the curative aspects bust also for the preventative measures. “The health system in Qatar has, over the past decade, developed and strengthened primary healthcare services and infrastructure, with a focus on prevention and early intervention, with the aim of improving health outcomes for patients and enhancing the quality of life in general,” she said. “Strengthening primary healthcare services in the Global South is thanks to the unlimited support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani for the health sector in the country.” “Qatar’s globally recognised network of comprehensive primary healthcare services is a strong example of a well-organised medical care system in which the health sector stands ready, through state programmes to support low- and middle-income countries, for partnership and for the exchange of experiences and training,” HE Dr al-Kuwari added. The minister also referred to the challenges faced by several countries in the health sector due to various issues. “Despite the great improvements that have occurred over the past decades, obtaining primary healthcare, even basic health services, represents a challenge in a number of countries due to geographical distance, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of trained medical staff,” HE Dr al-Kuwari said. “The situation has deteriorated due to conflicts, environmental problems, lack of resources, and poor management and guidance that have made the situation worse.” As for the Doha Global South Health Policy Initiative, the minister hoped that “this initiative, which is fully in line with internationally agreed global health strategies, will be able to contribute collectively to strengthening primary healthcare in low- and middle-income countries, and invest in their infrastructure, workforce and resources to enable individuals and communities to take charge of their health and well-being.”

Indian officials (from left) Randhir Jaiswal, Vinay Kwatra, ambassador Vipul, and Assem R Mahajan at the press briefing in Doha. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar
Modi visit to take India-Qatar ties to greater heights: Indian diplomat

The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar has set the stage for taking India-Qatar relationship to much higher level across all domains of co-operation and laid the foundation to explore opportunities in some new areas, noted Vinay Kwatra, the Indian foreign secretary, yesterday.He was addressing the media in Doha along with India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) joint secretary (Gulf) Assem R Mahajan, joint secretary and official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal and Indian ambassador Vipul, on the sidelines of the two-day visit. Modi had an audience with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani at the Amiri Diwan yesterday and was accorded a ceremonial welcome. He also met with His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and on Wednesday met HE the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohmmed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani.Kwatra said that the Indian premier thanked His Highness the Amir for taking care of the welfare of the Indian community in Qatar and discussed various areas of collaboration between Qatar and India. “The prime minister had a successful visit to Qatar and it included discussions on co-operation in new areas such as space, technology and innovation. Both sides held delegation-level discussions and restricted talks. The discussions covered a wide array of topics including economic co-operation, investments, energy partnership, space collaboration, urban infrastructure, cultural bonds and people-to-people ties. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues,” explained Kwatra.“Both leaders held discussions on areas of co-operation including trade partnership, investment co-operation, and energy partnership, issues related to regional security, cultural affinity and people-to-people ties. The two leaders focused on the need for strategic investment and strategic partnership in the field of energy and technology. They also discussed the topics of national and international importance. The prime minister also invited His Highness the Amir to pay a visit to India,” continued Kwatra.According to the Indian foreign secretary, the bilateral trade between both the countries stands roughly at $20bn. “The discussions focused on strong investment co-operation that India and Qatar have; strong and vibrant Indian diaspora living in Qatar; the multifaceted partnership in energy which includes energy trade and energy supply chain contributing to the field of energy security,” he highlighted.Kwatra said that Indian prime minister during his meeting with His Highness the Father Amir congratulated him for his visionary leadership that has paved the way for the development of Qatar in the past decades and laying the foundation for strong India-Qatar bilateral relationship.His Highness the Father Amir commented that India and Qatar share an unwavering bond empitomised by mutual trust and co-operation and appreciated the role of Indian diaspora in Qatar. “On the sidelines of India Energy Week held in Goa recently, the two countries signed an agreement for 7.5mn metric tonnes per annum LNG from Qatar to India for two decades starting from 2028 onwards. This long-term partnership goes way back to 1999 and remains robust and future oriented,” added, the foreign secretary.

WOLF Churchill safe (supplied pictures).
Qatar
WOLF celebrates 190th anniversary at DJWE 2024

WOLF - the renowned German makers of watch winders, watches and storage boxes - is celebrating its 190th anniversary at the ongoing Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2024.Making its debut is Silver box, a tribute to founder Philipp Wolf I's original creations and a major attraction at the WOLF booth, part of Fifty One East pavilion.Marking WOLF's 190th anniversary, the silver-plated box has an engine-turned pattern, a LusterLoc treated deep blue ultrasuede interior and customisable removable inserts for watches, jewellery, and other valuables.A standout this year is the bespoke Churchill safe, tailored by WOLF artisans to the buyer's preferences in leather, hardware colour, and interior configurations. After being showcased at DJWE, the unique creation will be moved to Fifty One East for a 6-month display.The Silver box is inspired by the original silver boxes Philipp Wolf I crafted in his workshop in Hanau, Germany. The most beautiful box for the dresser or coffee table, featuring multiple inserts for the precious items. From watches and jewellery to cufflinks or pens, it is the perfect way to protect the legacies. It is silver plated with engine-turned exterior pattern and beautiful hidden piano hinged lid. It features multiple option jewellery or watch trays which can also be completely removed to use simply as a box.“To say that I am proud of what we, as a company, have achieved would be a big understatement. The business has continued for five generations, 190 years, with many ups and downs, but always with a singular vision of making great product and taking care of the people who work in the company. I am humbled by how hard they work and care, it is an honour to work with such dedicated people. The future looks very exciting...here’s to the next 190 years,” said, Simon Wolf, CEO, WOLF.For safeguarding the most precious belongings, WOLF stands as the most intelligent choice. While conventional safes merely shield the possessions, a WOLF safe or cabinet goes beyond, ensuring that the watches are not just secure but impeccably wound and ready to wear using patented watch winders, individually set and controlled by WOLF’s bluetooth app, which count turns per day, unlike others which merely estimate rotations using time. WOLF’s curated collection of safes and cabinets, meticulously designed to cater to the discerning individual, offer the choice of size, finish and interior configurations for the watches, jewellery and valuables.

One of the TUDOR Black Bay Collections.
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TUDOR displays latest models at DJWE 2024

TUDOR, the renowned Swiss watch maker is showcasing some of its latest models at the ongoing Doha Jewellery and Watches exhibition 2024.Situated at the Fifty One East pavilion, visitors can spot some of the most elegant time pieces by the renowned watch maker, including the new Black Bay 41 mm steel case as well as the TUDOR Royal that were unveiled at the Geneva's Watches & Wonders 2023.The Black Bay GMT 41 mm steel case features the latest technical and aesthetic evolution, highlighting its new whimsical opaline dial and TUDOR Royal with two more exciting dial variants joining the range: Chocolate brown and Salmon.Clients can also discover novelties from the past summer, including the new Pelagos FXD which pays tribute to decades of TUDOR watches on the wrists of US Navy divers. Complete with fixed strap bars, a titanium case, a high-performance Manufacture Calibre and a unidirectional elapsed-time rotating bezel, it comes as the ultimate modern “Milsub”.TUDOR has introduced the newest Black Bay, the latest technical and aesthetic evolution of the emblematic diving watch with a burgundy bezel, featuring evolved design elements, a “T-fit” clasp and is a master chronometer.The original Black Bay first launched in 2012 with a burgundy bezel returns in a third evolution foreshadowing the aesthetic and technical future of the line. This emblematic design in the TUDOR collection is another example of TUDOR's expert command of one of the industry's most demanding standards in terms of chronometry and resistance to magnetic fields. The Black Bay brings together cutting-edge watchmaking technology with design elements inspired by TUDOR’s nearly seven-decade heritage of making robust professional diving watches.TUDOR presents a new version of its Black Bay line in steel with a fixed bezel. All fitted with Manufacture Calibres, the models come in four sizes, with a five-link bracelet and clasp with rapid adjustment.The Black Bay 31/36/39/41 models bring a unique aesthetic to the Black Bay line. The curved cases feature a combination of finishes that elevates the watch in a contemporary fashion and offers a design language that slightly departs from the brand’s iconic tool watch spirit to embrace a sophisticated, versatile, unisex chic look and feel.With its integrated metal bracelet, notched or diamond-set bezel and automatic movement, the TUDOR Royal range is the epitome of versatile and affordable sport-chic, and now there are two more exciting dial variants joining the range: Chocolate Brown and Salmon.TUDOR has expanded the dial range of the Royal to include radial-brushed salmon and chocolate brown dials that offer an unexpected and exquisite aesthetic. The Royal range offers self-winding, sporty and chic watches with integrated bracelets that are as affordable as they are aesthetically sophisticated. Boasting first-class technical performance and a refined aesthetic, this line sits at the crossroads between classic and sports watches.

One of the collections from Annamaria Cammilli on show at the DJWE 2024 (supplied pictures).
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Annamaria Cammilli in Doha debut with Fifty One East at DJWE

Fifty One East has introduced the latest addition to its portfolio, Annamaria Cammilli, at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2024, which concludes Sunday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.With more than 40 years of expertise, the brand is a leader in jewellery making, embodying 100% Made in Italy production and exclusive designs. Rooted in goldsmith specialisation and inspired by Florence's artistry, Cammilli's identity thrives on unconditional excellence.Notably, Cammilli's jewels feature a unique finish, "Aetherna," blending shiny and silky effects for lasting depth. The Maison offers eight sophisticated shades of 18-carat gold, contributing to the worldwide acclaim of its creations. Sculptural forms define collections like Couture, Dune, and Firenze, showcasing Cammilli's recognisable, three-dimensional aesthetic.Cammilli's jewels stand out on the international scene for their strong artistic component, recognisable in the original design and unmistakable sculptural appearance of the volumes. A three-dimensionality emphasised by the special velvety finish of the gold surfaces Aetherna, giving life to unprecedented plays of light and shadow on the Maison's 8 sophisticated shades of gold.The expert hands of Cammilli's designers mold unprecedented shapes in wax, generating true miniature sculptures: this is the secret of the extraordinary three-dimensionality of Cammilli jewelry, of volumes that convey the illusion of constant movement.The first shape carved in wax is subsequently replicated through lost wax casting, which allows the sinuous shapes resulting from the hands of the creative team to be enhanced and imprinted in gold. In this process, sculptural skills, decades of experience, creative flair and meticulous attention to detail come together to create ever new and unexpected forms, the direct result of an artistic talent that cannot be reproduced or imitated.The three-dimensionality of the shapes is enhanced by the alternation between the polished surfaces and the special velvety finish of gold that gives the jewels an original and recognisable aesthetic impact. Aetherna is the exclusive gold finishing method that has always distinguished Cammilli's jewels: a secret recipe handed down over time, resulting in a silky appearance that remains unchanged over time.There are Cammilli's famous eight colours of gold. An expedient to expand the creative possibilities by playing with different shades, and at the same time allowing each woman to choose the nuance that best suits her personality and skin tone. The colors available are sophisticated and different from each other: eight unique shades, ranging from the timeless Yellow Sunrise to the unusual Black Lava.

Some of the Rolex collections at Fifty One East pavilion. PICTURE: Thajudheen
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New Rolex collections showcased at DJWE

Rolex, the most sought after luxury time machine, is showcasing one of its latest collections at the ongoing Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2024, at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre.Stationed at the Fifty One East pavilion, the new Rolex creations are the ones unveiled at Geneva's Watches & Wonders 2023. Highlighting the perpetual pursuit of excellence, the selection features the GMT-Master II. This elegant time piece is available this year in two new versions – yellow Rolesor and 18ct yellow gold – with a Cerachrom bezel insert in grey and black ceramic, an entirely new colour combination.Another splendid and stunning Rolex machine is the new Sky-Dweller, the watch for world travellers, which is now offered, in an 18ct white gold version on an Oysterflex bracelet and two new dial colours: mint green and blue-green.The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II also signals the return of 18ct yellow gold to the model. The first is a yellow Rolesor version combining Oystersteel and yellow gold, whereas the second is crafted entirely in this precious metal.Firstly a two-colour, 24-hour graduated monobloc Cerachrom bezel insert in grey, a new shade and black ceramic. On the dial, the name ‘GMT-Master II’ is in a powdered yellow colour. These new versions are fitted on a Jubilee bracelet, equipped with an Oysterlock clasp and the Easylink comfort extension link.The new versions of the GMT-Master II are driven by calibre 3285, a movement at the forefront of watchmaking technology, enabling it to display the date and an additional time zone in 24-hour format, as well as the hours, minutes and seconds. Like all Rolex watches, the Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.With its two time zones and annual Saros calendar, the Sky-Dweller is an elegant and trusted companion for world travellers. The range has been updated with numerous enhancements illustrating the role that excellence plays even in the tiniest details.This watch is offered, in particular, in an 18ct white gold version on an Oysterflex bracelet. It is the first time that a version of the Sky-Dweller combines this precious metal, which is returning to the range, with the black elastomer bracelet. The other two variants unveiled introduce two new dial colours for the model. The white Rolesor version fitted on an Oyster bracelet, features a mint green dial, a colour reserved until now for the Datejust. And the variant fashioned in 18 ct Everose gold is endowed with a blue-green dial.The Sky-Dweller is now equipped with calibre 9002. An evolution of calibre 9001, this new movement includes some of the major innovations that Rolex has brought to its movements, including the Chronergy escapement. Calibre 9002 enables the Sky-Dweller to display the date and the month, as well as an additional time zone in 24-hour format, and the hours, minutes and seconds. The Sky-Dweller carries the Superlative Chronometer certification, which ensures excellent performance on the wrist.

Jewellery from CHANEL at DJWE. PICTURES: Thajudheen
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CHANEL classic collections at DJWE 2024

CHANEL, a French synonym for elegance and luxury, is displaying a number of its classic collections at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2024. Situated at Fifty One East pavilion, CHANEL presents Tweed de Chanel, an exquisite collection that translates the house’s lightweight, contrasting emblematic tweed into high jewellery, offering pieces as supple and fluid as the fabric that inspired them. In addition, CHANEL is presenting exquisite watches including the Mademoiselle Prive Pincushion Quilted Motif, Mademoiselle Prive Pincushion Embroidery Motif and the J12 Diamond Tourbillon Watch Caliber 5 from Watches & Wonders Geneva 2023. CHANEL has displayed its latest novelties from iconic fine jewellery and watch collections such as the Coco Crush, N°5, J12 and Premiere. CHANEL's showcase unfolds within a newly redesigned booth, inspired by its unique location on 18 Place Vendome, Paris. Another iconic collection is the CHANEL J12 Diamond Tourbilion that captivates with great brilliance and elegance while embodying the pinnacle of watchmaking artistry. The perfectly-cut solitaire diamond takes centre stage, gracefully rotating in harmony with the flying tourbillion movement meticulously crafted by CHANEL manufacture. An interplay of light unfolds as the diamond sparkles against the finish of the highly resistant ceramic case in luminous velvet white. The 18ct white gold fixed bezel adorned with 34 baguette-cut diamonds captivates with its brilliance while the hands are crown and are meticulously set with brilliant-cut diamonds. The dial, a canvas of shiny white ceramic openwork serves as a backdrop to the tourbillion cage embellished with 26 brilliant – cut diamonds.

Dr Mohammed al-Amri speaking at the media interaction Wednesday. PICTURE: Thajudheen.
Qatar
Qatar healthcare entities offering more services

Qatar’s healthcare entities are offering a lot more services and facilities like never before and the best emergency care, stated experts from various officials and experts from the public health care sector Wednesday at a media interaction.Opening the session, Nayef al-Shammari , the executive director of Media Relations, Hamad Medical Corporation ( HMC) noted that the National Healthcare Campaign ‘Where For Your Care?’ has been dedicated to raising public awareness about urgent and emergency medical services and how to access them.A total of 692,140 paediatric patients were provided emergency services in 2023, at the Paediatric Emergency Centres (PECs), said Dr Mohammed al-Amri, chairman of paediatrics and director of PECs at HMC.“There are four PECs under HMC: PEC- Al Sadd; PEC - Al Rayyan; PEC – Airport and PEC – Daayen. We serve approximately 2,000 emergency patients every day. PEC Al Sadd is the busiest emergency centre, seeing over 55% of all patients across PECs,” explained, Dr al-Amri.PECs provide medical care for emergencies of all priority levels to patients up to 14 years of age. “PECs stabilise any trauma/injury cases received and transfer them to Sidra Medicine. PECs provide support to child abuse/neglect cases and refers to the appropriate care facility as required. They are equipped to provide emergency consultations, observation facility and antibiotic administration. All support services are available in PECs to provide comprehensive care for patients,” added, Dr al-Amri.According to Prof Dr Ruben Peralta, deputy trauma medical director, HMC, the HMC Trauma Centre has been the national level 1 trauma centre in Qatar since 2007."The HMC Trauma Centre is a national and international recognised centre of excellence. It provides immediate medical, critical and surgical care to all citizens and residents of Qatar that sustain major injuries. The clinical staff -physicians, nurses and allied health care- are experts in the field of trauma and specially trained to manage severe and life-threatening injuries 24/7.”According to the official, HMC provides emergency services at seven HMC Emergency Departments across Qatar 24 hours a day for serious medical cases. They are: Hamad General Hospital Trauma and Emergency Centre; The Cuban Hospital; Al Khor Hospital; Women’s Wellness and Research Center; Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital; Aisha Bint Hamad Al Attiyah Hospital and Al Wakra Hospital.Officials from Sidra Medicine as well as Qatar Red Crescent Society also highlighted the services provided by the facilities and how Qatar’s emergency care scenario has improved over the years providing excellent care and support for the needy.

An exterior view of the Fifty One East pavilion at DJWE 2024 (supplied picture).
Qatar
Fifty One East in limelight at DJWE 2024

Fifty One East, is attracting large number of visitors both from Qatar and other countries at its pavilion in the ongoing Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2024, at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre.While the exhibition commemorates its 20th edition, Fifty One East, Qatar’s 'leading department store is celebrating its 75th anniversary reflecting on a legacy rooted in excellence that has cultivated enduring relationships built on mutual trust and respect with esteemed brands'.The signature retailer houses in its pavilion some of the leading world-renowned luxury brands such as Rolex, Chane, Boucheron, and Tudor among others and they are presenting their novelties in dedicated wings of the pavilion. The retailer has ensured that the visitors will be able to embark on a journey of timeless elegance and indulge in the allure of brands.Other trendy labels in the pavilion include global brands such as Annamaria Cammilli, Azza Fahmy, David Yurman, Falamank by Tarfa Itani, Genesia, J by JOELLE, L’Âme – a brand by Fifty One East, The Little Frog, WOLF and Yvan Tufenkjian.Bader al-Darwish, chairman and managing director of Fifty One East said, "The 20th edition of the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition signifies not just an event but a journey of evolution. We take immense pride in being part of this extraordinary exhibition from its inception. 2024 stands as a testament to 75 years of Fifty One East's unwavering commitment to setting the bar for luxury retail in Qatar. Rooted in heritage, the store's legacy mirrors the essence of timeless elegance, evolving through more than seven decades of sophistication.”“A heartfelt thank you to the organisers of DJWE for their meticulous efforts in curating an event that transcends boundaries, celebrating the global language of luxury and craftsmanship. We invite our dear clients to explore our pavilion which has been a hallmark of sophistication and a true reflection of the refined taste synonymous with Fifty One East and the brands we proudly represent,” he added.Situated at the centre of the exhibition, The Fifty One East pavilion stands as a beacon of impeccable taste, offering a fusion of incomparable luxury, personalised hospitality, and exceptional service. The event is expected to host large number of visitors from over 175 countries, presenting an opportunity to mingle with other jewellery aficionados, top designers, and a who’s-who of internationally renowned acting stars.DJWE 2024 runs from February 5 to 11 and is the regions’ premier watches and jewellery show that displays the most sought after luxury brands from around the world.

Boucheron collections at the Fifty One East pavilion. PICTURES: Thajudheen
Qatar
Boucheron debuts rare heritage pieces at DJWE

Boucheron is making its presence felt at the ongoing Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2024 with some its latest and exquisite and stunning jewellery collections, enchanting and mesmersing the visitors.To mark the DJWE's 20th anniversary, Boucheron is presenting, for the first time in Qatar, a captivating assortment of rare heritage pieces inspired by the main themes the Maison holds dear - Art Deco, Nature, and Animaux de Collection, some dating back as far as the 1930s.Boucheron is showcasing, in its booth at the Fifty One East pavilion, one of its signature creations, the Question Mark necklace: a revolutionary design imagined in 1879 and the first high jewellery necklace without a clasp. Visitors have the opportunity to discover a piece designed in 2018 by creative director, Claire Choisne: the Lierre de Paris Question Mark necklace.For this edition of the DJWE, Boucheron is also presenting its iconic jewellery collections: Quatre, Serpent Bohème and Nature. Additionally, visitors can discover an incredible set from the 2023 Histoire de Style "Like a Queen" collection. Every January, Claire Choisne draws inspiration from the archives of Maison Boucheron and reinterprets them through her creative lens. In this collection, she pays tribute to a special piece from the Boucheron archives: a diamond and aquamarine double-clip brooch gifted to the late Queen Elizabeth when she turned eighteen in 1944.In 2020, Choisne, decided to take inspiration from this unique piece to compose a High Jewelry collection reinterpreting the famous Art Deco design through eighteen models. “Like a Queen” is a contemporary tribute to a style icon who marked two centuries.“Three years ago, when I first immersed myself in the Boucheron archives, I couldn’t get my mind off that pair of Art Deco brooches,” Choisne explains. “The severity and geometry of the Art Deco design, tempered by the softness and light blue hue of the aquamarines, always fascinated me. I was touched by the sentimental value of these brooches, which Elizabeth wore at pivotal moments in her reign.”Like a story told through eighteen chapters, “Like A Queen” transcends its initial objective to construct a full high jewelry collection based on a single piece and offers a glimpse of the true genius behind its design.Moreover, Boucheron invites guests to experience French art de vivre with an exclusive tea salon inspired by the Jardin d’Hiver, located in the Parisian boutique at 26 Place Vendôme. This space, situated outside entrance three, provides a delightful setting to savour a customised menu and welcome visitors during the exhibition’s working hours.

With significant increase in the number of emergency and urgent care facilities in recent years, the campaign aims to remind the public to use various options other than the Ambulance Service in case of non-emergent and non-life threatening cases.
Qatar
Qatar sees significant growth in urgent medical care with more options

Qatar’s healthcare sector has grown significantly in recent years providing more options for the patients with emergency and urgent medical care conditions than ever before, according to information provided by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).These services are delivered across the public healthcare system such as Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) as well as other institutes.Other than the National Ambulance Service with a vast fleet, HMC offers seven emergency departments, five paediatric emergency centres, and the Urgent Consultation Service helpline to meet any emergency medical situation both for the citizens and the residents.PHCC operates 10 Urgent Care Units providing the service and five out of the 10 provide the service for both adults and paediatrics, within its primary health centres and the Urgent Consultation Service helpline.Sidra Medicine offers Paediatric Emergency Department (Public), Paediatric Urgent Care Centre (Private) and Women’s Obstetrics Triage and Urgent Care (Private). MoPH along with QRCS operates two Urgent Care Centres.HMC has launched a campaign ‘Where For Your Care?’ to bring together the key public health sector providers to work jointly to raise awareness of the services among the public and to use the emergency services judiciously. The campaign aims to improve the efficiency of the health sector by advocating correct use of available services and help patients receive the best possible medical care.With Qatar’s population has been growing steadily in the recent years and there are now about 3m people living in the country. It also throws a big challenge to meet the increased demand for all healthcare services, including emergency and urgent care. The expansion of capacity across primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare services has enabled to meet this increased demand and provide high-quality care to patients.With significant increase in the number of emergency and urgent care facilities in recent years, the campaign aims to remind the public to use various options other than the Ambulance Service in case of non-emergent and non-life threatening cases.It specifies that the Ambulance Service and Trauma & Emergency Centre provide life-saving care, should use a suitable urgent care facility. PHCC also has significantly expanded its urgent care provision in recent years with 10 units of 24-hour service.While choosing the right option for care enhances the treatment experience, it also helps to save the most critical care facility for others. HMC’s Emergency Departments have short wait times for patients with critical conditions.With the current campaign and the increase in the number of urgent care options, the healthcare sector is poised to provide the best care possible to the public.

A fleet of ambulances
Qatar
20% ambulance calls for non-emergency : HMC official

Qatar's public healthcare sector has launched a national campaign ‘Where For Your Care’ to educate the public on the use of emergency and urgent healthcare services as over 20% of the calls to the Ambulance Department are for non-emergency services.“We noticed that 20% of the calls received daily through the National Command Centre asking for Ambulance Service, are for non-emergency cases. Such cases do not require any emergency response that the ambulances are speeding through the roads, disturbing the traffic and the people on the road and moving with the Priority One response,” said Ali Darwish, assistant executive director, Emergency and Scheduled Ambulance Service, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).Darwish, speaking at the launch of the campaign Wednesday, explained that the campaign aims to highlight the wide range of emergency and urgent care services across HMC, Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, and Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS).“We have launched the campaign to redirect all the calls which are non-emergency and non-life threatening such as minor trauma or other illnesses to other facilities in the primary health care centres across the country. Knowing all the steps during the call is a good method for all call takers and the user to understand and build up a good picture about the call. Once we realise the call and understand the priority, we will be able to redirect them accordingly to the nearest facility,” Darwish said.The Ambulance Service, which provides life-saving care to patients with critical conditions, is to be used for situations such as heart attack, stroke; seizure, choking, chest pain, unconsciousness, difficulty breathing and severe allergic reaction.“Through the campaign, we aim to help patients make the best choice for their medical care needs. So the public will understand the message and will play a big role in this campaign. This will ensure that ambulance service is used for emergency services,” added, the official.A website, www.whereforyourcare.qa, also has been launched to have all the information regarding emergency and urgent care in Qatar in one dedicated place.The campaign brings together the key public health sector providers such as Ministry of Public Health, HMC, PHCC, Sidra Medicine, and QRCS to work jointly to raise awareness of services. Each provider offers various emergency and urgent care services Qatar’s population.The campaign focuses on five key points that are critical to ensuring an ambulance reaches the patient as quickly as possible to deliver live-saving treatment. They are: Dial 99 immediately, Know your location; Answer all questions; Follow all instructions and Give way to ambulances.The campaign encourages the public to save ambulances for emergencies. and is aimed at reducing the volume of non-emergency 999 calls to the Ambulance Service. ‘Where For Your Care?’ aims to educating the public on the types of symptoms and conditions to call an ambulance as well as alternative treatment options for cases that are not life-threatening. The campaign focuses on improving the efficiency of the health sector by advocating correct use of available services and help patients receive the best possible medical care.