Qatar

The Al Gannas Qatari Society (QGS) is participating in the 7th Ethnosport Culture Festival, currently taking place in Istanbul, Turkiye. Having been organised by the World Ethnosport Confederation, the event showcases a wide array of traditional sports and cultural practices from around the world.Chairman of the QGS’ Board of Directors and member of the Board of Directors of the World Ethnosport Confederation, Ali bin Khatem al-Mahshadi, is heading the Qatari delegation at the festival.QGS is participating with a booth showcasing a traditional Bedouin tent, ‘Bayt Al Sha’ar’, which drew a record turnout from high-ranking officials, dignitaries, and visitors who got familiarised with the falconry heritage shared with numerous nations, alongside an exhibition featuring photos that document the QGS’s events and festivals, al-Mahshadi highlighted. Al-Mahshadi added that the QGS’ delegation held numerous meetings with a range of delegations of the participating countries and highlighted the society’s experience, especially its advanced statutes applied in the tournaments it organises, such as the Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (Marmi), alongside its partnerships with friendly entities.He indicated that the Society highlighted its cultural efforts in preserving the falconry legacy at home and abroad, as well as its interests in young categories through organising Promising Falconer Championships and Marmi. For his part, Vice-President of QGS, Mohammed bin Abdul Latif al-Misnad, affirmed that the participation in this festival was intended to promote people-to-people ties among nations, particularly the Qatari and Turkish peoples and countries from Central Asia.The QGS’ experience garnered the participants’ approbation, who highly heaped praise on its scientific and cultural projects, such as embracing the Falcon Medicine and Veterinary Conference, the Qatar Falcon Genome Project, and the Qatar Falconers’ Campaign to Return Falcons to Nature, in addition to reinvigorating falconers’ role in this field, al-Misnad highlighted. The opening ceremony was attended by President of the World Ethnosport Confederation, Bilal Erdogan, along with senior Turkish officials, with the participation of delegations from 35 countries.The first day of this festival featured events to commemorate the children of Gaza who lost their lives due to the Israeli war of annihilation, with a space allocated to the solidarity tent highlighting the anguish of the Palestinian people and the Gaza children’s tragedy.

The Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at Qatar University (QU)’s College of Engineering organised the Annual Exhibition and End-of-Year Celebration for the Architecture Programme in the presence of HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah and QU president Dr Omar al-Ansari, along with several dignitaries, officials, and representatives from academic and professional institutions.Held in collaboration with the Arab Engineering Bureau and other relevant bodies in Qatar, the event aimed to showcase the projects and achievements of the department's female students for the 2024-25 academic year, while also highlighting the department's initiatives and its academic and community partnerships.It reflected the department's commitment to strengthening the integration between education and practical application and to providing an interactive platform for creativity and professional networking.In his speech during the event, College of Engineering dean Dr Khalid Kamal Naji stated: "Our students' projects this year reflect a wide range of ideas and innovations, made possible through valuable partnerships and the ongoing guidance of our faculty.”“The projects span diverse topics across different studios, addressing complex social, cultural, and environmental challenges with clarity and outstanding ambition,” he said."These partnerships went beyond symbolic support and were embodied in practical initiatives, direct supervision, and real training opportunities, which added a distinctive professional dimension to the educational experience,” Dr Naji continued. “At the College of Engineering, we value this continued support and aim to deepen and expand these strategic relationships to serve our shared goals in preparing a new generation of architects capable of contributing to a sustainable urban environment aligned with the aspirations of Qatar National Vision 2030."Representatives of the institutions expressed their admiration for the quality of the architectural and planning work on display, emphasising the importance of such events in strengthening the partnership between academia and the labour market and encouraging students to innovate and be creative.

Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Social Development and Family, recently participated in the International Family Forum held in Istanbul, Turkiye.Organised by the Turkish ministry of family and social services, the forum convened under the theme Our Family Our Future.The assistant undersecretary for family affairs, Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim al-Thani, led Qatar's delegation to the forum.The forum focused on strengthening and protecting the institutions of family and marriage, as well as fostering the well-being of future generations and robust demographic structures.The event aimed to enhance understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing families and communities, and to establish a common platform for discussions on how to better protect, empower, and support families in their vital roles.The ministry also took part in a ministerial session on "Integrating Family-Oriented Policies: National and International Efforts".During the session, the ministry emphasised Qatar's strong commitment to supporting and empowering families, noting that contemporary challenges require comprehensive policies rooted in scientific research.This is particularly crucial given demographic shifts, domestic violence, and social changes brought about by technology and work.Additionally, the ministry participated in the third dialogue session on "The Family in the Era of Digital Screens".This session highlighted the challenges posed by digital technologies and social media on families, including their impact on family cohesion, upbringing, and mental health, stressing the importance of balanced technology use and the activation of awareness programmes to reinforce family values.On the sidelines of the forum, Sheikha Sheikha held a meeting with Palestinian Minister of Social Development Dr Samah Abu al-Awn.Their discussion centred on avenues of co-operation between the two ministries and methods of providing support to affected Palestinian families.Sheikha Sheikha also held a meeting with Nigeria's Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim.They reviewed the mandates of the women affairs ministry and explored collaborative opportunities and support mechanisms between the two ministries.Separately, Sheikha Sheikha held a meeting with Turkiye’s Deputy Minister of Family and Social Services Leman Yenigun.The discussion focused on bilateral co-operation and the exchange of expertise in child protection and technology.

The Training and Development Center at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) has launched the 'Future Leaders' program in collaboration with the international firm FranklinCovey. The move is part of the Ministry's broader endeavor to prepare a generation of educational leaders capable of effectively steering the national education system in the future. The program was introduced during an orientation session the Center convened in Doha. The event convened a host of educators and target trainees. The program is a strategic initiative to qualify national talents and prepare the second tier of leadership, in addition to imbuing them with leadership and administrative skills, in alignment with the comprehensive development goals pursued by the State of Qatar, MoEHE said in a statement. The Ministry highlighted that the program has been structured as a pilot initiative that delivers a holistic training experience rooted in globally recognized leadership practices, while remaining attuned to Qatar's cultural and educational specificities and aligned with national professional standards. The program is structured around a comprehensive training approach in terms of analysis, design, application, and evaluation, offering exceptional content that fosters the notions of transformative leadership, encourages a data-based decision-making process, and deepens the culture of constant innovation and optimization in pedagogical work environments, the statement outlined. In addition, the MoEHE noted that FranklinCovey is one of the most prominent international firms specializing in advancing leadership and offering corporate solutions. It possesses a global record that abounds with significant milestones in supporting educational institutions, from schools to universities, through programs that generate concrete and enduring impacts in educational environments. The Ministry emphasized that the launch of this program underlines its commitment to pursuing the best global experiences in advancing talents, along with its unwavering endeavors to build a pioneering educational system that supports the Qatar National Vision 2030 and contributes to preparing effective educational leadership capable of confronting future challenges and spearheading positive change on the pedagogical stage.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani attended the final match of the 2025 HH the Amir Football Cup between Al Rayyan and Al Gharafa, which was held at the Khalifa International Stadium Saturday evening.His Highness the Personal Representative of the Amir Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al-Thani, HE Sheikh Jassim bin Khalifa al-Thani, and HE Speaker of the Shura Council Hassan bin Abdullah al-Ghanim along with a number of sheikhs, ministers and senior officials attended the match.The match was also attended by President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Syrian Arab Republic Mohammed Sameh Hamedh, a number of heads of Arab and international sports federations, members of the press and media, and a crowd of football fans.The match ended with Al Gharafa defeating Al Rayyan 2-1.After that, His Highness the Amir handed the Al Gharafa players the cup and gold medals, and handed the Al Rayyan players the silver medals.This victory marks Al Gharafa's eighth HH the Amir Cup title in their 13th final appearance.Al Rayyan suffered their 13th defeat in 19 final appearances, leaving their trophy count at six.Al Gharafa's goals came from Tunisian midfielder Ferjani Sassi in the fourth minute and Spanish forward Joselu in the 18th minute. Al Rayyan's sole goal was a penalty kick converted by Brazilian Roger Guedes in the 49th minute.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has announced the launch of the first phase of the audit and oversight project targeting the performance of healthcare personnel working in private schools and kindergartens.This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and the Primary Health Care Corporation, with the commencement of initial field visits.The project forms part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of healthcare and ensure the safety and well-being of students in educational institutions across the State of Qatar. It aims to raise professional commitment among healthcare practitioners, evaluate the quality of healthcare services provided in private schools and kindergartens, and support and guide healthcare staff towards best practice.The project reflects the MoPH's commitment to strengthening institutional partnerships and empowering experts to contribute to the development of professional performance, thereby improving the quality of health services provided within educational establishments at various levels. This is to ensure the safety and health of students by verifying that the health units within educational institutions comply with health and preventive standards.It is worth noting that work on preparing the project began in the middle of last year, in collaboration with partners, and implementation mechanisms were developed according to a carefully designed four-year timeline.

The Qatar Calendar House (QCH) has announced, based on precise astronomical calculations, that Wednesday, May 28, will be the astronomical beginning of the month of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, while Tuesday, May 27, will mark the last day of Dhul-Qi'dah for this year.According to Eng. Faisal Al-Ansari, Executive Director of Qatar Calendar House the crescent of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH will be born on Tuesday, May 27 (the observation day) at 6:03 AM Doha local time (3:03 AM UTC).The crescent will set 39 minutes after sunset in Qatar, with visibility duration increasing further westward.Astronomical principles dictate that the movement of the moon around Earth determines the start and end of Hijri (Islamic) months.The movement of Earth around the sun governs the start and end of Gregorian months.

A Qatar study has highlighted the importance of care for mental health issues to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatment. The research titled ‘The prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms and their associated factors among patients with cancer in Qatar’, was published on Qatar Medical Journal.The study found that a significant proportion of cancer patients suffered from depression. The objective was to to investigate the frequency of depression and anxiety among cancer patients in Qatar. The exercise, conducted by a group of researchers from Hamad Medical Corporation and Qatar University highlighted depression and anxiety as one of the biggest health issues that cancer patients in Qatar face. The researchers point out that depression or anxiety has a significant impact on their quality of life and treatment outcomes. Therefore, mental health treatment is a prerequisite for such patients. The study was a cross-sectional design using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)and Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 ( GAD-7) scales. A total of 500 cancer patients were surveyed from the National Center for Cancer Care and Research.Approximately one-third of cancer patients suffer from mental disorders, the most common being depression. Failure to address these mental health issues can result in serious consequences such as lower treatment adherence, lower chances of survival, higher healthcare costs, and worsening of the patient’s overall quality of life.Qatar National Cancer Registry data shows a clear picture of cancer prevalence in Qatar, with an increase of approximately 1,500 new cancer diagnoses per year. This number is likely to increase due to various lifestyle factors, such as increased life expectancy and an ageing population.The study found that a significant proportion of cancer patients suffered from depression, with an average PHQ-9 score indicating mild levels of severity.“Depression was commonly categorised as mild, with a smaller percentage experiencing moderate, moderate-to-severe, or severe depression.Additionally, patients were predominantly anxious, as reflected by an average GAD-7 score, with most patients experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, while a few experienced moderate or severe anxiety,” the study highlighted. These findings reveal the significant prevalence of both depression and anxiety among cancer patients, pointing to the importance of comprehensive mental health support.Moreover, patients with advanced-stage cancer, those in their 40s and 60s, those undergoing radiotherapy or hormone therapy, and female patients were found to be more susceptible to depression and anxiety.The study points out that effective handling of mental health issues is essential to enhancing the effectiveness of cancer treatment. According to the researchers, cancer patients can have a higher quality of life and better adherence to cancer treatments when mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety are identified and treated early.Furthermore, most patients reported having depression and anxiety, according to the study, that these conditions were more common in Qatar. Several demographic groups have been linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety, including women, middle-aged adults, people with stage IV cancer, and patients receiving therapies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

The Shura Council participated in the 11th Nevsky International Ecological Congress (Nevsky 2025), held over two days in St Petersburg, Russia, and concluded Friday. The event brought together parliamentary delegations and international organisations from more than 40 countries.Representing the Shura Council were members of the Council Mubarak bin Mohammed al-Matar al-Kuwari, Dr Mohammed bin Butti al-Abdullah, and Ali bin Ahmed al-Kaabi. The forum featured several panel discussions on a range of environmental topics, such as food security amid climate change, developing ecotourism in harmony with nature, among other topics. On the sidelines of the conference, the Shura Council delegation held a meeting with members of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russia.The meeting explored ways to strengthen parliamentary co-operation, exchange expertise in social, economic, and environmental fields, and stressed the importance of continued coordination on issues of mutual concern.The Russian side included Mohamed Isaevich Akhmadov, who serves as deputy chair of the federation council committee on social policy and representative of the Chechen Republic, Alexander Arkadyevich Zhukov, member of the committee on economic policy and representative of the Republic of Khakassia, and Yulia Viktorovna Lazutkina, who serves as deputy chair of the social policy committee and representative of Penza Oblast.

The Amiri Guard School celebrated the graduation of participants of the security and personalities protection joint foundational courses No 95 and 96, as well as the conclusion of the first semester of the security and personalities protection diploma course No 4, at the Lahsaniya camp.The ceremony was attended by HE the Amiri Guard Commander Lieutenant-General Staff Hazza bin Khalil al-Shahwani.It was also attended by Djibouti’s Republican Guard Commander Colonel Mohamed Djama Doualeh, the Kuwaiti military attache, the Amiri Guard deputy commander, the inspector-general, assistants to the Amiri Guard deputy commander, and a number of senior Amiri Guard and Armed Forces officers.At the outset of the graduation ceremony, the general report of the two courses was reviewed.Amiri Guard School Commander Major Hamad Abdullah Aqeel al-Nabit stated that the two courses’ participants underwent an integrated training system that relied on the latest protection methods in the arts of shooting, formation tactics and procession skills, in addition to comprehensive exercises to enhance the level of combat readiness.The closing ceremony featured a number of field segments, including a series of scenarios related to the security and protection of dignitaries, including various methods for dealing with emergency and sudden situations through airdrops by helicopter or vehicles to evacuate dignitaries according to the course of events and the dilemmas faced.The ceremony also featured self-defence combat drills, weapon shooting at various targets, and various field formations for vehicle convoys.Following the ceremony’s conclusion, the Amiri Guard commander honoured the top graduates.

Qatar affirmed that upholding the principle of protecting civilians requires the rejection of starving them or using food and humanitarian aid as a weapon of war.This came in a statement delivered by Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani. The statement was delivered during the UN Security Council’s open debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, held at the UN headquarters in New York.HE Sheikha Alya noted that this debate came at a time when the world is witnessing increasing complexity and a significant decline in civilian protection during armed conflicts, due to the failure to adhere to the principles of international law and international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.She added that Qatar welcomes the UN Secretary-General’s annual report, which highlights that the greatest threat to civilian protection today is not the absence of laws, but rather the failure to comply with them or their selective application, something civilians have to face the consequences of.She emphasised that Qatar has adopted a clear strategy and made substantial and ongoing efforts in conflict prevention, mitigation, and peacebuilding across various regions of the world, in line with its firm commitment to international law and humanitarian law, especially the four Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, which have been incorporated into Qatar’s national legislation.HE Sheikha Alya noted that Qatar’s commitment to the principle of the Responsibility to Protect aligns with its strong belief in international co-operation to uphold collective security, and its respect for international law, the UN Charter, and relevant resolutions.She further stressed that the Gaza Strip was experiencing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe following the resumption of Israel’s aggression, in blatant defiance of international efforts to promote peace, particularly the ceasefire agreement reached through the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the US last January.HE Sheikha Alya said that Israeli attacks continue to target civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and residential areas, constituting a clear violation of international humanitarian law and the Fourth Geneva Convention. The Israeli government’s obstruction of humanitarian aid to Gaza is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the Strip, which is facing severe food shortages due to the ongoing closure of border crossings by Israeli occupation forces for the past two months, as reported by the UN.She renewed Qatar’s call on the international community to compel Israel to ensure the safe, sustained, and unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into all areas of Gaza. She stressed the urgent need to end the war on Gaza to prevent further humanitarian deterioration and to move forward in good faith toward achieving comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the region.She also noted that Qatar and Egypt have reaffirmed their continued, co-ordinated efforts alongside the US in mediation to alleviate the suffering of civilians and to create the conditions necessary for a comprehensive truce that would lead to an end to the war and its humanitarian disaster.Finally, HE Sheikha Alya reiterated Qatar’s emphasis on the importance of conflict prevention and peaceful resolution efforts as essential components in ensuring better protection for civilians in conflict zones, thereby strengthening the resilience of local communities in the face of the devastating consequences of armed conflict.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) saw strong buying sentiments, as gauged by 200 points gain in main index and about QR12bn in capitalisation this week, which otherwise featured oil price volatility, rising geopolitical tensions and concerns on the US fiscal front.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index surged 1.89% this week which saw Qatar’s Prime Minister HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani tell Fifth Qatar Economic Forum (QEF), Powered by Bloomberg, that Qatar aspires to be a beacon of technological progress and a global centre for investment and business.The banks and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand this week which saw Invest Qatar launch a $1bn incentives programme, aimed at strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global business hub, as part of strategy to drive investment growth and accelerate economic diversification.The Arab individuals were seen net buyers in the main bourse this week which saw Qatar Tourism chairman HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji tell QEF that tourism sector contributed QR55bn to the national gross domestic product in 2024, representing 8% of total economic output — a 14% increase over 2023.The foreign retail investors were also seen bullish in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.18mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.41mn trade across 47 deals.More than 77% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.01mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.07mn change hands across 14 transactionsThe Arab institutions were seen net buyers, albeit at lower levels, in the main bourse this week which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The foreign funds continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf individuals’ lower net profit booking had its marginal influence in the main bourse this week which saw HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi tell QEF that Qatar plans to significantly boost its liquefied natural gas (LNG) trading business to complement its expanding domestic production of LNG.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw the Qatar’s Minister of Finance HE Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari tell QEF that the huge deals signed by Qatar recently at US President Donald Trump’s visit as “normal” and was a win-win for both the countries.Market capitalisation added QR11.9bn or 1.91% to QR636.52bn on the back of large and midcap segments this week which saw the industrials, banking and consumer goods sectors together constitute about 74% of the total trade volumes.Trade turnover and volumes were on the increase in both the main and ventures markets this week which saw the US tariff regime, according to Qatar Central Bank governor HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud al-Thani tell the QEF that Doha is now in good stage despite weakening energy prices, which is a cause of “concern”.The Total Return Index rose 1.89%, the All Islamic Index by 1.58% and the All Share Index by 1.86% this week which saw Doha Bank partner with Blackstone to provide private capital strategies to Qatar investors.The banks and financial services sector index soared 2.48%, industrials (1.96%), consumer goods and services (0.86%), transport (0.77%), telecom (0.69%) and real estate (0.22%); while insurance fell 0.34% this week which saw the London Stock Exchange-listed Ashmore Group finds “exciting” growth opportunities in Qatar, which is fast becoming an important investment destination for global investors.Major movers in the main market included Industries Qatar, Ooredoo, QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, Lesha Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Mannai Corporation, Medicare Group, Dlala, Doha Bank, QIIB, Qatar Oman Investment, Widam Food, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Aamal Company, Qatari Investors Group, Estithmar Holding, QLM, Ezdan and Mazaya Qatar this week which saw Aamal Company set eyes on industrial manufacturing, healthcare and other high-growth sectors.Nevertheless, Vodafone Qatar, Milaha, Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, Gulf International Services and Qatar Insurance were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.The Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened significantly to QR121.39mn compared to QR31.11mn the previous week.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR13.32mn against net sellers of QR22.71mn the week ended May 15.The foreign retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR3.54mn compared with net profit takers of QR11.68mn a week ago.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.3mn against net profit takers of QR0.76mn the previous week.The Gulf individuals’ net selling weakened marginally to QR1.5mn compared with QR2.42mn the week ended May 15.However, the local retail investors’ net profit booking grew noticeably to QR136.02mn against QR109.43mn a week ago.The domestic funds’ net selling strengthened markedly to QR63.47mn compared to QR53.08mn the previous week.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened substantially to QR61.44mn against QR168.97mn the week ended May 15.The main market saw 36% surge in trade volumes to 1.48bn shares, 36% in value to QR3.19bn and 38% in deals to 132,263 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes more than tripled to 0.38mn equities and value also more than tripled to QR1.04mn on 40% jump in transactions to 59.

The Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance cooperation in inclusive and sustainable development, establishing a foundation for long-term collaboration with a particular focus on supporting countries facing urgent and complex development challenges.A QFFD's statement today said that the agreement outlines potential areas of cooperation across five key thematic pillars: economic development, healthcare services and climate resilience, urban rehabilitation and cultural heritage, education and research, and social and community development.By leveraging respective resources, technical expertise, and global networks, QFFD and AKDN seek to implement integrated, multi-sectoral initiatives that are rooted in local contexts and deliver meaningful global impact. This collaboration reaffirms a unified vision and shared commitment to addressing today's most pressing challenges by scaling sustainable development outcomes, empowering vulnerable communities, and delivering sustainable and inclusive solutions that leave no one behind.The signing ceremony was held in the presence of HE the Chairperson of Qatar Museums Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani; HE Chairperson of the Qatar Fund for Development Sheikh Thani bin Hamad Al-Thani; and the Chair of the Aga Khan Development Network Prince Rahim Aga Khan, alongside senior leadership from both entities.

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

A Ministry of Environment and Climate Change workshop to discuss the final draft of the National Strategy and Action Plan to Combat Desertification in the State of Qatar concluded its sessions.It was the second workshop that took place under the patronage of HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie.The workshop was attended by representatives from several national entities, along with a group of environmental experts and specialists. It resulted in the adoption of the final version of the national strategy, which aims to address the phenomenon of desertification and enhance the sustainability of natural resources within an integrated national framework aligned with the objectives of Qatar's Third National Development Strategy.The sessions included a review of the key national efforts in combating desertification, as well as discussions on how to align the new strategy with other sectoral initiatives, ensuring consistency with the country's environmental, developmental, and economic priorities to ultimately secure a sustainable and safe environment for future generations.Participants emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration among various stakeholders and intensifying collective efforts to confront environmental challenges, especially amid the accelerating pace of climate change and its impact on ecosystems.

Beijing, May 23 (QNA) - The Doha Forum hosted a high-level roundtable on global governance as part of the 11th annual China and Globalization Forum, organized by the Center for China and Globalization, reaffirming Doha Forum’s commitment to inclusive dialogue and enhancing South-South cooperation.The session, titled "Reshaping Frameworks for Global Governance: The Role of China and the Global South," took place on Thursday in Beijing, bringing together diplomats, policy experts, and development leaders to discuss emerging partnerships between China and the Global South in redefining international cooperation in a multipolar world.Opening statements were delivered by Founder and President of the Center for China and Globalization Henry Huiyao Wang, and General Manager of Doha Forum Maha Al Kuwari.Both speakers stressed the importance of governance systems that go beyond representation and efficiency, focusing on fairness and adapting to current political and economic shifts.During her remarks, Al Kuwari stated that the question today is not whether we need new approaches to global cooperation, but how we can achieve it in representative, inclusive, and effective ways that respond to the complex modern world.She added that Doha Forum is proud to partner with the Center for China and Globalization to foster these critical discussions.The session was moderated by Co-Founder and Secretary-General of the Center for China and Globalization and Founder of the Young Global Leaders Dialogue Initiative Dr. Mabel Lu Miao.Featured speakers included HE Former Member of the Turkish Parliament Unal Cevikoz, HE Former Assistant Foreign Minister of Egypt Khaled Omara, President of the Institute of Economic and Technological Research at China National Petroleum Corporation Lu Ruquan, The Non-Resident Fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs Rashid Al Mohannadi, Head of Planning and Partnership Evaluation at Qatar Fund for Development Sheikha Al Sheibi, Founder and President of Synergia Foundation Toby Simon, Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Center for China and Globalization Xu Huicheng, and Center for China’s International Knowledge on Development Zhou Taidong.The discussions explored China’s role as a regulator, investor, and development partner across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, alongside the influence of the Global South in shaping international trade, development finance, and multilateral systems.At the conclusion of the session, Doha Forum announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Center for China and Globalization as a strategic content partner.The agreement includes joint sessions at the next edition of the Doha Forum, scheduled for December 2025, as well as continued year-round collaboration.Doha Forum has a long-standing history of focusing on inclusive global governance. Its 23rd edition is set to take place in Doha from December 6–7, 2025, bringing together world leaders under the theme "Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress". (QNA)

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change announced a sharp rise in the number of invasive mynah birds captured under the national invasive bird control program between January and April 2025, compared to the same period last year.According to the ministry's statement, 5,936 mynah birds were captured in the first four months of 2025, compared to 2,791 birds in the same period in 2024, demonstrating the effectiveness of current control measures.The number of cages used for trapping increased to 1,934 in 2025, compared to 600 in 2024.The program expanded geographically to cover 33 locations across Qatar, up from 16 sites last year, reflecting enhanced environmental monitoring and field operations.The ministry affirmed that this initiative aligns with Qatar's comprehensive national strategy to combat invasive species, focusing on proactive, sustainable methods in accordance with best environmental practices to protect biodiversity.Additionally, the ministry urged the public to report sightings of invasive mynah birds, emphasising that environmental conservation is a shared national responsibility that requires collective efforts and cooperation.

Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) has announced that the Doha Metro is fully prepared to welcome and transport fans attending the 2025 Amir Cup Final, which will bring together Al Rayyan and Al Gharafa teams at Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday.Fans of both teams can directly access Khalifa International Stadium via Sport City Station on the Gold Line of the Metro, which is within walking distance of the stadium, a statement said Friday.As part of its preparations to facilitate the movement of fans and visitors on match day, Qatar Rail will implement a station crowd management plan at Sport City until the end of the Metro service.On Saturday, while Doha Metro and Lusail Tram services will run according to the regular schedule, several changes will be made to Metrolink and Metroexpress services. Metrolink route M311 will be shifted to Al Sudan Metro Station (Shelter 1), and route M317 to Al Aziziyah Metro Station (Shelter 2).Metroexpress bookings to and from Sport City Station will be disabled, with the area instead served via Al Waab QLM station (Shelter 2).Engineer Abdulla Saif al-Sulaiti, chief of Service Delivery at Qatar Rail, said: “We look forward to welcoming Al Gharafa and Al Rayyan fans aboard Doha Metro during the 2025 Amir Cup Final, contributing to an exceptional match-day travel experience.“In coordination with our partners from the relevant entities, we have developed a special operational plan for the event that will ensure smooth and convenient journeys for fans throughout the day.”He added: “The Metro has become an integral part of the fan experience at major sports events. During the Amir Cup Final, we are fully committed to ensuring seamless crowd movement and prioritising the safety of all passengers across the network.”As part of its efforts to facilitate crowd management and ensure a safe and reliable travel experience for its customers during major events, Qatar Rail is committed to installing wayfinding signage at key metro stations linked to these events.Additionally, trained staff will be deployed to effectively manage the expected crowd flow, assist passengers proactively, and guide passengers within stations and trains, while also providing additional services for passengers with disabilities.In line with Qatar Rail’s continuous efforts to enhance the experience across the Metro network, fans will also be able to experience an exceptional shopping experience through a variety of retail outlets featuring both local and international brands. These include food and beverage services, mini-marts, pharmacies, sportswear retailers, and more.Fans planning to attend the match via Doha Metro are advised to plan their journeys in advance and allowing enough amount of time before heading to Metro stations to enjoy the match vibes. For more information on the latest service updates regarding Metro and Tram services, fans are advised to visit Qatar Rail’s official social media accounts, use the Qatar Rail mobile app, or contact the Customer Service Centre by calling 105.

Inshore weather until 6:00 pm on Friday will be misty to foggy at places at first, and hot during the day, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather report, warning of poor horizontal visibility at places at first.Offshore, it be misty to foggy at first, becomes hazy at times, the report added, warning of poor horizontal visibility at places at first.Wind inshore will be variable at first, becomes northwesterly - northeasterly at a speed of 03 - 13 KT.Offshore, it will be variable at a speed of 03 - 12 KT.Sea state inshore will be 1 - 2 FT, while offshore will be 1 - 3 FT.Visibility inshore will be 4 - 8 km / 2 km or less at places at first. Offshore, it will be 4 - 8 km / 1 km or less at first.

Qatar will be president of the Arab Authority for Blood Transfusion Services for a second term ( 2025-2027).The Council of Arab Ministers for Health took the decision during its 62nd regular session held in the United Nations Office in Geneva, chaired by Iraq.The Arab League said in a statement on Thursday the decision was part of the important decisions on health priorities in the Arab region.The Council affirmed its full solidarity with the Palestinian people amid the grave challenges they face, stressing its rejection of the displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the need to support and expand field hospitals affiliated with several countries in the Gaza Strip, including providing them with modern medical equipment, enhancing their capacity to accommodate the increasing number of injured, ensuring the continuity of their operations in emergency situations, and supporting sustainable development projects for the health system by working to provide developmental health programs aimed at rebuilding the health system in the long term.The Council emphasized the importance of continuing the work of the Arab Health Committee for Emergency Preparedness and Response, to monitor the humanitarian situation in Arab countries, coordinate Arab efforts, and support them in developing programs to enhance the preparedness of Arab health systems to respond to emergencies and enhance the capabilities of the health sector in Arab member states in the areas of monitoring, evaluation, and forecasting.The Council approved the Arab Award for Blood Transfusion Services regulations, welcomed Kuwait's readiness to host the 15th Arab Blood Transfusion Conference, scheduled for 2026, and adopted the draft Arab Guiding Strategy to Promote the Use of a Health Economics Approach to Identify Key Health Priorities (2025-2030).