Qatar

The Qatar Press Center (QPC) concluded a training course titled “Fundamentals of Conference and Event Photography,” presented by trainer Yousef Shalar, an expert in media, visual identity design and founder and director of the Media Talents Academy.The four-day course combined theoretical and practical aspects of essential mobile photography fundamentals. During the course, the trainer provided a comprehensive overview of best professional practices in visual media coverage of events and conferences.The course aimed to provide participants with the technical skills necessary to produce professional media reports on events, combining sound media coverage planning with an understanding of modern photography techniques. Participants also mastered technical editing, montage, and visual production skills suitable for publication across various media platforms, including television, digital, and social media.Sadiq Mohammed al-Ammari, Director General of the QPC, emphasized that the training programmes offered by the center are among the most important tools for advancing media work in the country. He noted that these courses are carefully designed to meet the needs of practitioners and those interested in the field, enhancing their practical and theoretical skills through a select group of specialized trainers and experts. He explained that the center continues to implement its annual plan, which focuses on developing media personnel capabilities, through updated training programmes that respond to the demands of the evolving media landscape and keep pace with the rapid development of digital technology and modern publishing platforms.He said that these courses not only aim to enhance the efficiency of media professionals but also seek to establish the foundations of professionalism and quality, enabling participants to acquire effective tools in editing, media production, and multimedia handling.He added that the center works to provide an interactive training environment that contributes to the exchange of experiences among participants and supports the development of a generation of media professionals capable of meeting challenges and contributing to the development of local content, in line with Qatar's vision of strengthening media professionalism and elevating its role and noble mission in serving society. 

Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council has launched the Qatar Social Sciences RDI Community, a flagship initiative that brings together researchers, innovators, and policymakers working in the filed of social sciences and humanities. As part of QRDI Council’s National RDI Communities programme, this community aims to foster collaboration, bridge sectors, and generate evidence-based solutions to Qatar’s most pressing societal challenges. Launched as a pre-event to World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12), the community also sets the stage for deeper conversations on the role of research, innovation, and development in shaping the future of education and society. The Qatar Social Sciences RDI Community was launched at a dedicated event that brought together more than 350 attendees, including high-level government officials, academic leaders, industry experts, and representatives of civil society. Opening remarks were delivered by Omar Ali al-Ansari, Secretary General of the QRDI Council. The programme also featured welcoming remarks with Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed al-Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, who emphasised the need for social sciences to play a more prominent role in shaping policies and national development strategies. The launch event included a keynote address, interactive roundtables, and a panel discussion exploring how research, innovation, and policy can align to drive social progress. Senior representatives from QRDI Council, academia, and government engaged in dialogue on advancing equitable education, mental well-being, inclusive governance, and social cohesion through interdisciplinary collaboration. This community is anchored in the Third National Development Strategy, which identifies the social sciences as a foundational pillar of Qatar’s innovation ecosystem. By bridging gaps between research, policy, and innovation, the community will serve as a trusted space for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the co-creation of evidence-informed solutions. Al-Ansari highlighted: “This community is built on a central and simple idea: Innovation must serve people, and that society guides and determines the course of innovation. Through this Community, we are empowering researchers, government entities and industry partners to come together, share perspectives, and shape solutions that contribute to a more inclusive, knowledge and innovation-based economy.” The key objectives of the Qatar Social Sciences RDI Community are to connect diverse stakeholders to build a shared understanding of Qatar’s most pressing social issues, generate evidence-informed recommendations that can influence policymaking, elevate the role of social sciences within the national development agenda and translate academic research into real-world impact through practical applications and cross-sector collaboration.

 Carrefour Qatar welcomed the Indian ambassador Vipul to its flagship store in City Center Doha. In his tour, the envoy saw the wide range of Indian products that Carrefour Qatar carries, and discussed the expanding business relationships between Carrefour Qatar and Indian producers and exporters, a statement said. 

 The Safari 10, 20, 30 Promotion begins today (Monday, Dec 1) at Safari, one of Doha’s leading hypermarket chains. This is one of Safari’s most popular promotions, eagerly awaited by a large number of customers, including both residents and expatriates, a statement said.A wide range of products are being made available at Safari outlets through this 10, 20, 30 promotion, including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, bakery items, hot food, other food products, cosmetics, household items, ready-made garments, footwear, electronics, computer accessories, groceries, grains, fabrics, and many daily-use essentials. In addition to thousands of items priced at QR10, QR20, and QR30, this year Safari has also included many products at QR15 and QR25.Some of the key attractions include: a blood pressure monitor for QR30, two packs of Bayara nuts (300g) for QR10, Salwa water (24 bottles) for QR10, a 1,300g Sadiya chicken for QR10, Persil Deep Clean (2.5 L) for QR25, two packs of Tide detergent powder (2.5 kg) for QR30, and a Santro gas burner for QR30, among many other offers.Safari bakery and hot food section has also prepared a wide variety of dishes, including Western, South Indian, North Indian, Arabic, and Chinese cuisines, along with special combo offers. Items such as chicken biriyani, chicken majboos, pizza, and more are available. In addition, the fresh food daily section includes Roumi cheese, butter blocks, Awafi pizza cheese, Sadiya mortadella, Italian mixed pickle, plain cheese, cheddar cheese, beef mortadella, and more items under the 10, 20, 30 promotion.Juice, drinking water, chicken parts, chicken nuggets, various types of ice cream, milk and dairy products, and many frozen food items are also available at QR10, QR20, and QR30. The grocery section is stocked with a wide selection of snacks, food products, and grains.The household section features a wide range of multipurpose products. In the cosmetics section, products from leading brands such as Enchanteur, Dove, Sebamed, Pantene, Lux, Olay, and Johnson & Johnson are available, along with perfumes, body spray, makeup set, soaps, face wash, body lotions, and other health and beauty care items.The stationery section offers a large collection of school and office items, including Faber-Castell and Maped school kits and many other stationery sets. A wide range of items in the toys and sports sections are also available at QR10, QR20, and QR30.In the garments and ready-made section, a premium collection of men’s wear, ladies’ churidar and materials, ladies’ denim jackets, kids’ wear, footwear, ladies’ bags, and newborn baby collections are available for QR10, QR20, and QR30. The electronics section offers a wide variety of products such as emergency light, trimmers, torches, calculators, headsets, smart watches, and many other devices at attractive discounted prices, the statement added. 

 Two students in the Media Department at Qatar University (QU) completed two graduation projects aimed at serving the community and promoting awareness and positive behavior among young people. Student Mohammed al-Marri launched the "Don't Speed, Take It Easy... We Want You Safe" campaign to reduce speeding accidents on roads, which are among the leading causes of traffic accidents that result in loss of life and property, and significantly impact families and society.The campaign focuses on spreading a culture of safe driving, emphasizing that arriving late is better than risking one's life, especially among young people who represent a large segment of car users.Student Ibrahim Mohammed Saleh completed the "Camp with awareness" campaign to promote sustainable camping and environmental awareness among young people and the Qatari community by encouraging environmentally friendly practices such as litter collection, protecting natural plants, and committing to using alternative energy sources. The campaign aims to instill values of environmental responsibility and promote sustainable behaviours in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.They told Arabic daily Al-Raya that these projects highlight the vital role of youth in proposing innovative solutions to societal problems and transforming academic knowledge into practical initiatives that serve the environment and road safety, contributing to building a conscious, sustainable, and safe society for all citizens and residents of Qatar.Student Mohammed al-Marri said that his project, "Don't Speed, Take It Easy... We Want You to Be Safe," aims to reduce speeding accidents on Qatari roads, which are among the leading causes of traffic accidents that result in loss of life and property, and have a significant impact on families and society in general.For his part, student Ibrahim Mohammed Saleh, from the Department of Media at QU, whose project is entitled “A Quality Camping to Preserve Our Qatar,” aims to spread the culture of sustainable camping and promote environmental awareness among the youth and the general public in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Ibrahim said that the campaign focuses on the importance of preserving the sites after the end of camping, the sustainability of alternative energy sources, the commitment to protecting natural plants, and avoiding pollution in all its forms. 

 The Arab Book Award, headed by Dr Hanan al-Fayyad, the award's media advisor, and including Dr Imtinan al-Samadi, a member of the media committee, participated in one of the 48th Kuwait International Book Fair's cultural events with a critical session titled: "Literary Awards: Between Honoring Creativity and Building Presence."Dr Imtinan al-Samadi pointed out that literary awards are not merely a matter of honoring and recognizing an individual, but extend to a broader and more far-reaching framework, transcending mere celebration to exert a real influence on the cultural landscape.She explained that the most important question is not simply, "Who won the award?" but rather, "What is their impact on culture?" She emphasized that awards confer significant power, generating fame, adding financial value, and facilitating translation, thus making their impact deeper and more profound than what can be directly observed. She added that awards face the challenge of maintaining their presence, because their demise means a loss of value, highlighting the importance of keeping them vibrant and dynamic.As for Dr Hanan al-Fayyad explained that creative individuals constantly experience a state of creative anxiety, and that one of their characteristics is that they are not easily satisfied with their work. They also face suspicion when they boast about their work without hesitation. This is where awards play a crucial role in shifting the creative individual from anxiety to conscious confidence, based on rigorous standards that are free from deception or favoritism. This is achieved by placing the work against its artistic foundations. If it passes this test, the creative individual gains legitimacy that qualifies them to influence their society.Al-Fayyad pointed out that the Arab Book Award provides a platform that celebrates outstanding works and grants creators greater opportunities for dissemination and influence. She added that the award not only honors authors but also contributes to building new pathways for the flourishing of writing through the transfer of knowledge and the exchange of ideas, making it a vital contributor to strengthening intercultural communication. Al-Fayyad further explained that the Arab Book Award continues to play its role in elevating the Arab cultural landscape by honoring works of high intellectual value and encouraging knowledge creators to produce content that raises public awareness and enriches the Arab cultural scene. She considered the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and the Arab Book Award to be two of the most important Qatari cultural prizes, alongside the many other state awards with institutional affiliations. These awards, she noted, represent two essential pillars in supporting Arab creativity and enhancing its role in enriching human culture.Al-Fayyad concluded by pointing out that the awards do indeed contribute to reducing cultural isolation and encourage marginalized cultures to participate. She explained that the difference between the awards lies in their ability to open doors to openness without discrimination, clarifying that some awards have remained confined to a single culture, while others have been able to mark a significant step towards openness to the entire world. 

The Police Academy, represented by the Center for Security Research and Studies, in co-operation with the Airport Security Department, organised a scientific symposium on airport security challenges and emerging artificial intelligence technologies. The symposium was attended by His Excellency the Legal Adviser to the Minister of Interior and General Supervisor of the Police Academy Major General Dr Abdullah Yousef al-Mal along with several directors of departments at the Ministry of Interior, representatives from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority and Qatar Customs Authority, as well as a delegation from the Sultanate of Oman representing the General Directorate of Airport Security. The symposium aimed to analyse the security landscape in airports and examine the role of AI technologies in risk prediction and behavioural analysis, in addition to discussing the legal and ethical challenges associated with the use of these technologies. Specialists from relevant entities presented a number of scientific, research, and practical recommendations aimed at supporting the development of the airport security system. 

The 6th International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC), Qatar 2025 organised by the Primary Health Care Corporation ( PHCC) concluded Saturday with ten key recommendations to advance primary healthcare in Qatar and beyond.Some of these recommendations include: Enhancing research skills among clinical doctors and decision-makers; a comprehensive law on professional ethics; developing a multidisciplinary workforce in primary healthcare and promoting adolescent mental health among others.Addressing the concluding ceremony, Dr Mariam Abdul Malik, managing director, PHCC said that the three-day conference held under the theme: “Inspiring Tomorrow: The Power of Collaboration in Primary Health Care” saw the spirit of teamwork with integration among institutions and experts for a promising and healthy future.“We have completed numerous scientific sessions and workshops, distinguished by rich discussions reflecting everyone’s commitment to safeguarding human health, tackling global challenges, and envisioning a future rooted in innovation and health transformation,” explained, Dr Abdul Malik.“These efforts have culminated in valuable scientific outcomes. Among these, we are proud to present the key recommendations—fruits of collaboration between participants from Qatar and around the world,” she remarked.The first recommendation is enhancing research skills among clinical doctors and decision-makers, and providing complete resources to the primary healthcare institution so that it directly contributes to policy formulation, resource allocation, and planning for primary healthcare and preventive health services.The next one suggests reviewing, updating, and unifying health legislation in Qatar to work towards a comprehensive law on professional ethics that benefits all parties in collaboration with relevant institutions, while learning from the experiences of countries in the region.The conference has advocated establishing comprehensive support for lifestyle, obesity, and self-management across the life stages through organised, digitally supported lifestyle programmes, treating obesity as a chronic disease that requires psychological and social care, and implementing the therapeutic patient education model.Meanwhile, the conference suggests developing a multidisciplinary workforce in primary healthcare with empowerment, through organised partnerships between academic institutions and the health sector, enabling them to fulfill their roles to the fullest extent of their authority, improve and provide necessary patient care, and contribute to achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030 health service goals.It also proposes to strengthen a strong culture of employee well-being that prioritises mental safety, a comfortable work environment, and stress management, to prevent burnout and ensure high-quality healthcare.The next suggestion aims at promoting adolescent mental health through early detection of mental health disorders in children and adolescents, within a clear national policy and defined referral pathways.It further advocates the establishment of national policies that integrate complementary medicine into the healthcare system in a safe and sustainable manner.Next item among the recommendations is the expansion of digital health services through the National Center in the Ministry of Public Health for health information exchange, clinical decision support systems, and patient applications, making services faster, safer, and more adaptable.Another suggestion is the integration and enhancement of artificial intelligence systems in the use of electronic medical records, particularly regarding early screening and follow-up, while ensuring privacy, fairness, and clinical accountability.Lastly, the conference, aims to enhance medication safety by standardising procedures across the healthcare system.The conference saw broad participation of about 1,000 experts, physicians, and specialists from various countries, making it one of the most prominent scientific gatherings in the region and an important platform for exchanging expertise and knowledge. 

Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent Committee for Managing Visitor Entry, has announced updates to the "Hayya" GCC Residents Visa (A2). The new features are designed to make travel to Qatar smoother and more convenient during a season rich in international sporting, cultural, and entertainment events.The updates, which will take effect on 30 November 2025, allows visitors from GCC countries to stay in Qatar for up to two months and offers multiple-entry access. These enhancements are designed to make it easier for visitors to attend a variety of events throughout the season and enjoy a seamless entry experience across all points of arrival.These updates come at a key moment as Qatar prepares to welcome regional visitors for the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup alongside a packed events calendar. The new visa features allow GCC residents to move in and out of the country with ease, enabling fans to attend matches and enjoy Qatar's broader cultural and entertainment offerings. Through the Hayya Platform, Qatar continues to ensure a smooth arrival experience and strong operational readiness for the tournament and other major events during peak periods.Commenting on the new updates, Director of Hayya, Saeed Al Kuwari said: "These measures go beyond simple procedural changes. They reflect Qatar Tourism's broader vision to strengthen the country's openness to the region, facilitate visitor movement during major sports and cultural events, increase arrivals, and enhance tourism's contribution to the national economy. They also reinforce Qatar's position as a leading regional destination for tourism and international events."Operated by Qatar Tourism, Hayya serves as Qatar's official e-visa digital platform. As Qatar's central digital gateway, Hayya streamlines access to the country through integrated visa processing and event access, all within a single, user-friendly interface.By making entry seamless for GCC residents, Qatar Tourism is enabling more visitors from neighbouring countries to enjoy the season's events, strengthening Qatar's global tourism profile, and supporting economic growth.Hayya offers five distinct visa categories: the Tourist Visa (A1), GCC Resident Visa (A2), Visa with ETA (A3), Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4), and the Visa-Free for US Citizens (F1). 

Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) has announced that the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram networks are fully prepared to welcome and transport fans attending the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 Finals, taking place from Dec 1 to 18. Service hours for both the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram during Dec 1 to 18 will be extended on days with late matches to ensure spectators are able to use the Metro for their journey back home after the match. This also includes metrolink and metroexpress services. Additionally, Park and Ride facilities are available at selected stations, allowing fans to park their vehicles and continue their journeys via the metro. The Park and Ride facilities at Education City will not be available on days with matches in the adjacent stadium. The "Park and Ride” facility at Lusail QNB stations will not be available throughout the tournament, with the facility at Qatar University available instead. To meet the increased demand during the tournaments, Qatar Rail said that 6-car trains will operate on the Red Line, 110 total trains of the Doha Metro fleet will be in service during peak hours to ensure smooth passenger flow. Qatar Rail also said that it has deployed dedicated maintenance teams on its various facilities. All stations have undergone a thorough process to ensure they are ready to receive a much higher number of passengers than usual. Additional maintenance teams will be stationed throughout the network to provide rapid response capabilities and address any emergencies. Qatar Rail has also installed additional wayfinding signage across key metro stations directly linked to the tournament venues. Trained staff will be deployed to guide passengers and fans inside stations and on trains, and to offer additional support for passengers with disabilities. Trained event teams will also be deployed at stadium stations and other key stations, where the highest footfall is expected during match days, including dedicated ticketing desks to fulfil the high demand during the tournament days. On this occasion, Chief of Strategy and Business Development at Qatar Rail Ajlan Eid al-Enazi said: "We look forward to welcoming fans of the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 Finals aboard the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram, ensuring an exceptional travel experience. In coordination with our partners in relevant entities, we are working to guarantee smooth and convenient journeys for fans throughout the match days. The Metro has become a key part of the fan experience during major sporting events, and we remain fully committed to ensuring seamless crowd movement, prioritising passenger safety, and elevating every aspect of the fan journey across our networks." The 2025 FIFA Arab Cup will take place across six stadiums: Lusail, Ahmad bin Ali, Al Bayt, Education City, Khalifa International, and Stadium 974. Five stadiums are conveniently located within walking distance from the nearest metro station, including Stadium 974 via Ras Bu Abboud Station, Education City Stadium via Education City Station, Ahmad bin Ali Stadium via Al Riffa — Mall of Qatar Station, Khalifa International Stadium via Sport City Station, Lusail Stadium via Lusail QNB Station. Meanwhile, Al Bayt Stadium will be connected through a dedicated shuttle bus service from Lusail QNB Station. The FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025 will feature its final three matches, the FIFA Derby of the Americas, the FIFA Challenger Cup, and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final, at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Dec. 10, 13, and 17. Regarding Lusail Tram services, The Orange Line will operate only between Legtaifiya and Al Wessil stations. The Pink Line service will operate as usual, and the Turquoise Line will not be in service due safety requirements around Lusail Stadium and Lusail Boulevard. To facilitate the T100 Triathlon event being held in Lusail from Dec 10 to 14, Pink Line services will operate only between Legtaifiya and Tarfat South station during the times when the races are on. To ensure a smooth experience for fans, residents, and tourists during the Arab Cup, A 24/7 customer contact centre will ensure continuous support to visitors and residents looking for information and/or assistance. Our Customer Service Centre 105 will implement a robust preparedness plan focused on scalability, multilingual support, and rapid response. Customers can also connect with us on WhatsApp 44433105. To also ensure fan safety, Qatar Rail advises customers to plan their trips in advance, arrive early at stations to avoid congestion, and follow instructions from customer service staff at stations and aboard trains. Service updates guiding fans to stadiums will be displayed on digital screens inside stations and trains throughout the event. Qatar Rail’s customer service team, representing diverse nationalities and languages, has undergone specialized training to support fans during the tournaments across the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram networks. Fans will also enjoy a variety of retail experiences at metro stations, including F&B outlets, mini-marts, pharmacies, sportswear shops, and other local and international brands. For the latest service updates, fans are encouraged to follow Qatar Rail’s official social media channels, use the Qatar Rail mobile app, or contact the Customer Service Centre by calling 105. The Doha Metro has become an integral part of the fan experience during major sporting events, and Qatar Rail remains is committed to ensuring seamless crowd movement and prioritizing passenger safety across its networks.

The Ministry of Public Health carried out a wide-scale inspection campaign covering a number of restaurants, cafeterias, and sites designated by companies to provide food to workers at their residential locations in the Industrial Area. The objective was to ensure compliance with health standards and requirements during food handling, and to strengthen food safety and protect consumer health in the State of Qatar.During the campaign, inspections were carried out at 479 establishments, including restaurants and cafeterias, in addition to 191 sites designated by companies to prepare and serve food in worker accommodations for about 95,000 workers in the Industrial Area. Each food establishment and site underwent at least three inspection visits to monitor the implementation of corrective measures and to raise the level of compliance.A total of 1,813 food samples were collected (1,239 samples from restaurants and cafeterias and 573 samples from worker housing sites). They were analyzed at the Ministry of Public Health’s food safety laboratories. The results showed that all samples met health requirements.The total number of visits carried out by inspectors from the Food Safety Department of the Ministry of Public Health during the four-month campaign exceeded 1,650 inspection visits to cafeterias and restaurants. The regulatory efforts resulted in a notable improvement in performance, as more than 82 percent of these establishments advanced by at least one grade in the classification system compared to their initial inspection visit.Statistics from the electronic food safety system Wathiq also showed that 44 percent of the sites designated by companies to prepare and serve food to workers at their accommodations received an Excellent rating, within an overall ratio of 85 percent of sites rated Average and above, compared to the initial inspection visit for these sites.The Ministry of Public Health continues working to complete coverage of the remaining worker accommodations, restaurants, and cafeterias, increase inspection visits, and organize training workshops for food handlers to raise awareness of health requirements and general hygiene standards.The Food Safety Department of the Ministry of Public Health continues to implement the food establishment classification program as part of the ministry’s strategy to protect public health. This is achieved through continuous cooperation between the relevant authorities and food establishment owners, which is a fundamental pillar in establishing an advanced and sustainable food system that meets the highest standards of food safety.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser on Thursday inaugurated Lawh Wa Qalam: MF Husain Museum at Qatar Foundation’s Education City, unveiling a landmark cultural space dedicated to the legendary modernist Maqbool Fida Husain.Conceived in close collaboration with the late artist and built on a promise made to him, the museum marks a historic addition to Qatar’s growing constellation of world-class museums.Among the invitees witnessing the inauguration was award-winning author, multimedia journalist, and cultural curator Sahar Zaman, who conducted one of the most widely watched interviews with Husain before his passing.With 25 years of experience and a celebrated career that includes founding Asia’s first arts web channel, Hunar TV, and authoring the acclaimed 2024 biography “Talat Mahmood: The Definitive Biography”, Sahar’s presence added a deeply personal dimension to the museum’s debut.Speaking with Gulf Times about her memories of the legendary artist, Sahar recalled her interviews with Husain during the last decade of his life—a period marked by creative urgency, global travel, and self-imposed exile.“I say with great pride and equal humility that MF Husain became a friend in the last and final decade of his life,” she said. “In his 90s, he was racing against time to finish his large-scale projects—Indian cinema, Arab civilization, and his final work Seero fi al Ardh.”She remembered interviewing him in Dubai, often accompanied by spontaneous moments that revealed his childlike energy. “I once sat with him in his red Ferrari for a short drive,” she said. “He told me the car would be part of an upcoming artwork. I laughed it off then—but a week later he flew to Italy to work on the Morano horses. His life moved at the pace of his Ferrari.”Reflecting on his creative vision, Sahar described Husain as “fearless”—an artist unmoved by judgment or controversy. “His strong brushstrokes and straight lines were a depiction of that fearlessness,” she said. “At 90-plus, he relocated to Doha to start afresh, create new work, and build a museum. His zest for life was unmatched.”Though his art stirred political controversies in India, Sahar believes time has reaffirmed his stature. “When the noise of those debates settles, it’s the genius of his work that shines. Collectors still vie for his art—just this year his Gram Yatra sold for a record $13.8 million. His significance remains unquestionable.”A promise fulfilled in DohaSahar described Lawh Wa Qalam as “a triumph of human spirit, unprecedented posthumous glory, and the honour of a promise made to him by Sheikha Moza.” She praised the museum not only as an artistic milestone but as a profound example of cultural stewardship.“It’s an exemplary display of a promise made and a promise kept,” she said. “Fourteen years have passed since Husain’s death, yet the commitment to build his museum was never forgotten. Sheikha Moza will be remembered in golden letters for preserving, showcasing, and reintroducing Husain to generations who might never have known him.”She added that the museum, positioned in Doha at the crossroads of East and West, will help bridge cultural narratives. “Lawh Wa Qalam will sit at the heart of the international art circuit,” she said. “It will not just preserve Husain’s story but create new dialogues between cultures.”A legacy for future generationsFor Sahar, the museum offers a powerful takeaway for visitors. “They will see that art takes time, struggle, and patience,” she said. “But when made with sincerity and purity, it becomes immortal and timeless.”She believes contemporary artists continue to draw lessons from Husain’s mastery. “His strokes—whether large canvases or tiny sketches—show extraordinary control and ease. And beyond technique, he was a once-in-a-generation mix of talent, showmanship, strategy, and marketing. He knew what to paint and how to sell.”As Qatar opens the doors to Lawh Wa Qalam, Sahar sees the museum not only as a tribute to a global icon but as a celebration of artistic resilience and cross-cultural understanding. “It brings together two worlds—India and Qatar—through the vision of a man who created his own language of modern Indian art,” she said.

Al Raya newspaper highlighted the extent of regional and international concern over the latest Israeli attack on Syria, affirming that the escalation threatens efforts to restore stability to the country.In its editorial on Saturday, the paper referred to the massacre carried out by Israel at dawn on Friday in the Beit Jinn area in the Damascus countryside, which resulted in the killing of 13 people and the injury of others. It said that the attack falls within a series of systematic assaults targeting Syrian territory without justification, and that they come as part of Israel’s expansionist schemes.The paper added that this aggressive behavior comes at a time when international efforts are moving toward helping the new Syria recover and rebuild, making any military escalation a direct factor in disrupting the country. It stressed that the repeated Israeli attacks constitute a blatant violation of Syrian sovereignty and aim to create new pretexts for occupying Arab lands by exploiting the weakness of Syria’s security infrastructure during the recovery phase.Al Rayah noted that the State of Qatar strongly condemned the Israeli attack as a flagrant violation of international and humanitarian law, warning that continued assaults will increase regional tensions and undermine efforts aimed at restoring security and stability.In this context, it highlighted the State of Qatar’s call on the international community to act immediately and stop the violations and hold those responsible accountable in accordance with international conventions.Al Raya also noted that Israel encourages certain factions within Syria to secede or rebel, considering that these policies are aimed at preventing Syria from regaining stability, as Israel is the sole beneficiary of any state of chaos in the region. It warned that continued Israeli attacks could push the region toward a wide-scale regional war from which no party would emerge unscathed, stressing that this path carries catastrophic risks for all amid the interlinked security and military files in the Middle East.The paper called on the international community to adopt a firmer stance toward Israeli violations and work to prevent sliding into an open confrontation that could destabilize the entire region.Al Raya concluded its editorial by saying that the latest Israeli attack is a dangerous indicator of the continuation of the escalation policy, and that any international disregard for these assaults will weaken pathways to a solution in Syria and keep the region trapped in a circle of tension.

Doha Film Festival, presented by Doha Film Institute, announced the winners of its competition programmes at the closing ceremony following a week of film screenings, inspiring conversations and engaging events.The ceremony was attended by Sheikh Thani bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, chairman of Qatar Fund for Development and DFI board member; Sheikh Dr Abdulla bin Ali al-Thani, chairman, Media City Qatar; Hassan al-Thawadi, managing director, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy; Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kuwari, Minister of State and president of Qatar National Library; Mohammed Saad al-Rumaihi, CEO, Qatar Museums; engineer Abdulaziz al-Mawlawi‏, CEO, Visit Qatar; Abdulla al-Najjar, board member, Qatar Museums; and engineer Jassim Mohamed al-Khori, CEO of Media City Qatar, among others.Hosted by Sudanese filmmaker and presenter Amjad al-Noor and Syrian-American comedian Nasser al-Rayes, the event brought together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cultural leaders from across the world, including Saleh Bakri, Kamal al-Jafari, Saja Kilani, Misan Harriman, Elia Suleiman, Brigitte Lacombe, Rithy Panh, and Dhafer L’Abidine, among others.Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, festival director and CEO of DFI, said: “As we close the curtain on this edition of Doha Film Festival, we reaffirm Qatar’s enduring commitment to championing new voices and bold storytelling. This festival is a promise that creativity will always have a space, that diverse voices will always be heard, and that Qatar will continue to open its doors to artists shaping a connected and compassionate world.“Every story shared here has reminded us that film is one of humanity’s greatest bridges connecting us beyond borders, backgrounds and differences to push our collective vision forward.”The winners of the Doha Film Festival 2025 in the International Feature Film Competition category are Special Mention: The Reserve by Pablo Pérez Lombardini; Best Performance Award: shared by Majd Eid and Nader Abd Alhay (Once Upon a Time in Gaza); Best Artistic Achievement: shared by Kamal al-Jafari (With Hasan in Gaza) and Chie Hayakawa (Renoir); Best Documentary: My Father and Qaddafi by Jihan; and Best Narrative: Sleepless City by Guillermo Galoe.The jury was led by Rithy Panh, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker, with director and screenwriter Raja Amari, actor and filmmaker Dhafer L’Abidine, renowned photographer Brigitte Lacombe, and founder and curator of Final Cut Venice Alessandra Speciale.The winners in the International Short Film Competition category are Special Mention: L’Mina by Randa Maaroufi; Special Mention for Performance: Ammar Ahmed (Zizou); Best Performance: Milica Janevski (Upon Sunrise); Best Director: Aria Sánchez and Marina Meira (Primary Education); and Best Film: Samba Infinito (Leonardo Martinelli).The jury was led by industry professional Eddie Bertozzi with filmmakers Faris Alrjoob and Zoljargal Purevdash. The winners in the Made in Qatar Competition category are Special Mention: Project Aisha by Fahad al-Nahdi; Abdulaziz Jassim Award for Performance: Rashid al-Sheeb (Fahad the Furious); Best Director: Eiman Mirghani (Villa 187); and Best Film: Fahad the Furious by Justin Kramer.The jury was led by actress, director and producer Afef Ben Mahmoud, with head of Development at Katara Studios Fahad al-Kuwari, and producer and distributor Alaa Alasad.The winners in the Ajyal Film Competition category are Best Feature: The Voice of Hind Rajab by Kaouther Ben Hania, and Best Short: Sulaimani by Vinnie Ann Bose. The winners were selected by a youth jury aged 16-25 from all across the world.The winner in the Audience Award category is Cotton Queen by Suzannah Mirghani. The festival featured 97 thought-provoking films from 62 countries and a wide range of creative community events. Doha Film Festival had four main competition sections, special screenings, music performances, Geekdom and other community initiatives. 

The Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CGB) confirmed that employees are not required to submit any paper certificate to prove marriage in order to receive the annual marriage and marital status incentive. The electronic link with the Supreme Judicial Council is already in place and automatically verifies marriage data, eliminating the need for any paper documents.In a post on its X platform, the Bureau indicated that it continuously utilizes this electronic link to automate processes and streamline procedures for employees. The Bureau noted that entities not using the "Mawared" system can contact the Supreme Judicial Council directly to complete the technical link and verify employee data.It reiterated that employees are not required to submit any paper documents related to marital status and that electronic verification via the approved link on the government data exchange platform is sufficient. If marital status data appears outdated, the employee can be instructed to update it with the Supreme Judicial Council to ensure verification through the electronic link.The new amendments to the Human Resources Law included several benefits that promote work flexibility and support employees' family lives. Among the most prominent is the granting of an annual marriage incentive of 12,000 Qatari Riyals to married Qatari employees, effective January of each year, provided that one year has passed since the date of marriage and both spouses are Qatari citizens. Additionally, both spouses will now receive the social allowance at the "married" rate, whereas previously one spouse received the "married" allowance while the other received the "single" allowance. 

His Excellency the Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Thani met Saturday with Egypt's Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, Lt Gen Kamel Wazir. Held on the sidelines of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) General Assembly meetings in London, the meeting discussed the two countries' bilateral co-operation relations in the fields of transport, shipping and ports.The two sides also reviewed ways to further enhance these relations, particularly with regard to maritime navigation.  

Protection and Social Rehabilitation Centre (Aman), member of Qatar Foundation for Social Work, concluded a series of awareness workshops held at Qur'an memorisation centres for women and girls, in co-operation with the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs.In this context, Acting Executive Director of Aman Centre, Fadl al-Kaabi emphasised that the main objective of these workshops, in co-operation with the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, represented by the Qur'an memorisation centres, is to enhance women's sense of security and highlight their role in the stability of the family and society. The workshops also aimed to equip participants with new skills and mechanisms for dealing with challenges and problems they may face, and to familiarise them with the centre's role and the key services it provides to protect them.Al-Kaabi noted that the awareness workshops targeted women and girls, focusing on raising awareness and educating the community about social protection issues, thus contributing to building strong and cohesive families. He explained that the number of beneficiaries of these workshops exceeded 900.He pointed out that these efforts come in fulfilment of the vision and mission of Aman Centre to provide social protection, strengthen family cohesion, and reduce violence in all its forms.For her part, Director of the Community Awareness Department at Aman Centre, Bakhita al-Ghayathin explained that the implementation of the "Aman" awareness workshops aimed to highlight several topics related to social protection, family safety, and protection from cyber extortion, in addition to raising awareness about bullying and its psychological effects.In contrast, Director of the Communication and Media Office at Aman Centre, Hanan al-Ali emphasised the importance of expanding co-operation with the largest possible number of partners in the country to serve the targeted groups of women, children, and victims of family breakdown and violence, stressing that awareness represents the first line of defense in achieving safety.Al-Ali added that activating community partnership with the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs contributes to raising community awareness and strengthening family cohesion, thus creating a safe and stable environment.  

Invest Qatar, the country's investment promotion agency, recently concluded the successful hosting of the FDI Leaders Network Autumn Meeting, held in Doha on November 25-27. The prestigious, invitation-only forum brought together CEOs and heads of international and regional Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) from around the world to exchange insights, challenges, strategies, and best practices in foreign direct investment.The FDI Leaders Network convenes twice a year in major global cities. It is unique in being the only network is for CEO's or heads of investment agencies. Previous editions have taken place in London, Tokyo, Frankfurt, Calgary and Vienna, with Doha now joining this distinguished list.The event featured high-level, in-depth discussions on global FDI trends, comparative leadership challenges, and collaborative opportunities to drive sustainable economic growth.CEO of Invest Qatar, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani said: "Hosting the FDI Leaders Network in Doha underscores Qatar's commitment to fostering international partnerships and advancing our vision for economic diversification. This platform enabled meaningful dialogue and collaboration among global investment leaders."Founder of the FDI Leaders Network, Cathy Dawson said: "CEOs of Investment Promotion Agencies from Australia, Bermuda, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Kazakhstan, the UK and the USA have converged in Doha to discuss new challenges which continue to re-shape global investment."These leaders need networks like the FDI Leaders Network more than ever, to remain adaptable, retain effectiveness and channel investment towards sustainable and impactful outcomes. With thanks to Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, our gracious host, and to Invest Qatar who have made this happen."The programme combined strategic discussions with cultural and networking experiences, reinforcing Qatar's role as a global investment hub. Participants explored emerging trends in foreign direct investment, shared best practices and identified opportunities for collaboration across sectors such as technology, sustainability and infrastructure. The event also showcased Qatar's world-class facilities and its commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment through progressive policies and incentives.The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) is responsible for overseeing investment promotion activities, aimed at attracting foreign direct investment to Qatar. Established in 2019, Invest Qatar's mission is to strengthen Qatar's position as an ideal investment destination, while facilitating investments that foster economic diversification and development.The FDI Leaders Network is a high-level membership group of CEO's and Heads of Economic Development and Investment Promotion Agencies, from selected countries, who stand at the forefront of investment promotion. The network meets bi-annually for frank and open discussion in a confidential and closed environment. 

Qatar Charity, in partnership with Mogadishu University, laid the foundation stone for “Sheikh Eid bin Mohammed Al Thani Centre for Vocational Training and Innovation” in Mogadishu. The project aims to empower Somali youth by equipping them with professional and technical skills aligned with labour-market opportunities. The new centre will be established within one of the university’s facilities.The foundation-laying ceremony was attended by Qatar’s ambassador to Somalia, Dr Abdullah bin Salem al-Nuaim; Deputy Governor of Banadir Region for Social Affairs, Abdiaziz Mohamed Osman; President of Mogadishu University, Dr Ibrahim Mohamed Mursal; and Director of Qatar Charity’s Somalia Office, Abdifatah Adam Maalim.Qatar Charity explained in a statement on Monday that the centre will span 7,000sq m and will benefit around 500 young men and women annually. It will include an innovation building, vocational workshops, classrooms, a two-story mosque, and a multi-purpose hall for activities and events. The centre will offer programmes in handicrafts, technical skills, soft skills, and entrepreneurship.The organisation noted that the project is one of its strategic initiatives designed to address the major challenges facing Somali youth, chief among them high unemployment, which local estimates place at around 67%. This makes the project a significant and impactful addition in its field.The project builds on the long-standing strategic partnership between Qatar Charity and Mogadishu University, which began in 1997 with the launch of the “Student Scholarship Programme”. To date, 3,684 students have benefited from the scholarships, most of whom have gone on to work in the public and private sectors, with some assuming leadership positions, reflecting the sustainable developmental impact of this collaboration. 

 Qatar has won a seat on the Executive Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in Category C for the third consecutive time.This victory was secured during elections held as part of the 34th session of the IMO Assembly in London.This win reaffirms Qatar’s prominent position in the global maritime transport sector and demonstrates the international maritime community’s confidence in the country’s constructive role in joint efforts to enhance maritime safety and security, protect the marine environment, and develop sustainable maritime transport.  **media[387699]**  On this occasion, HE the Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Thani, expressed his pride in this achievement, which reflects international recognition of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to develop the maritime sector.He emphasised that Qatar’s election to the Executive Council for the third consecutive time is a testament to the wise vision of its leadership in strengthening the country’s presence in international organisations and solidifying its position as a leading maritime logistics hub in the region and the world.HE the Minister stated: “This achievement is a direct reflection of the State of Qatar’s commitment to the principles of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and its unwavering dedication to supporting its objectives of achieving safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly maritime transport.”He added: “We will continue to work with member states to enhance international co-operation and exchange expertise, contributing to the development of the global maritime transport system.”He also acknowledged the confidence shown by brotherly and friendly member states that supported Qatar’s candidacy for membership on the Executive Council for the third consecutive time.He commended the efforts of all national entities that contributed to this success, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and integration among state institutions in achieving Qatari accomplishments on the international stage.For his part, Qatar’s ambassador to the United Kingdom and Permanent Representative to the IMO, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud al-Thani, affirmed that this victory reinforces the active role the State plays in supporting international efforts to advance the maritime transport sector.He considered the State’s continued membership on the Executive Council a reflection of the international maritime community’s appreciation for the qualitative achievements Qatar has made in the areas of port infrastructure, maritime governance, and marine environmental protection.He stated: “The renewal of confidence in the State of Qatar reflects its unwavering commitment to actively participating in international decision-making related to maritime navigation and transport, and underscores its keenness to support constructive co-operation between the organization and its member states in a way that serves the future of global maritime transport.”Qatar’s election to the Executive Council for the third consecutive time is an achievement that strengthens its international presence in specialised UN organisations and reflects its ongoing efforts to develop the maritime transport sector in line with the goals of its National Vision 2030 towards a diversified and sustainable economy.