Qatar

Six pre-medical students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) visited Bali, Indonesia, as part of the annual Global Health Service Learning Programme (GHSLP), a statement said.Supported by the Institute for Population Health (IPH), the two-week GHSLP enables WCM-Q students to recognise the meaning of cultural humility and competence, develop contextual inquisitiveness, identify challenges associated with working in a new environment, foster communication, collaboration, and teaching, and enhance their health education and reflective practice skills.As part of the programme, pre-medical students volunteered at a local high school in Ubud, Bali, where they delivered basic health education to young students.The students Ahamed Zayyan, Aiza Tanveer Hassan, Hassan Ijaz, Maryam Sohail, Moomena Gulzar, and Nidhi Roy were accompanied by Dr Amit Abraham, assistant director of the IPH, and Dr Karima Chaabna, manager of population health research, IPH.Dr Sohaila Cheema, assistant dean for the IPH and programme director, said: “The programme offers a unique and valuable opportunity to not only promote community health education but also develop a deeper understanding of a completely different culture, working environment, and educational system.Dr Ravinder Mamtani, WCM-Q professor of population health sciences and vice dean for population health and lifestyle medicine, and professor of medicine at the Center for Global Health, said: The students were able to immerse themselves in the unique Balinese culture and enhance their communication, cultural humility and adaptability skills."Reflecting on her experience, pre-medical student Sohail said: “The service-learning trip to Bali was unlike any other travel experience. It stimulated immeasurable growth: both personally and professionally."For student Ijaz, the experience was transformative and inspiring. He said: “Bali was more than a trip; it was a journey of connection, discovery, and growth. From exploring its beauty through rice fields to teaching in a classroom, every moment left a mark on me.”

talabat, the leading on-demand delivery platform in the Mena region, has unveiled its latest campaign, ‘We Got You,’ designed to celebrate the trust and loyalty of its customers while reinforcing the company’s continued commitment to serving everyday needs in Qatar.At the heart of the campaign is talabat’s three core offerings: the best deals, on-time delivery, and the widest variety.With access to over 5,000 restaurants, 1,000 shops, 500 pharmacies, and 30,000 items, customers can count on talabat to be there anytime and anywhere, a statement said yesterday.Customers can enjoy an ongoing selection of offers, from hot drops, flash sales, and meal deals for one or groups, to mega promotions on quick commerce, discounts on pharmaceuticals, QR1 deals, and pro deals day offering up to 70% off menus.Francisco Miguel De Sousa, managing director of talabat Qatar, stated: “‘We Got You’ is a simple message that reflects our understanding of everyday life in Qatar. By offering the best deals, reliable delivery, and the widest selection, we make it easier for our customers to enjoy what they love and find what they need, every day.”Customers can download the talabat app via the IOS App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

Qatar Charity (QC), with the generous support of benefactors in Qatar, has launched a series of wide-ranging development projects in Mauritania, in collaboration with the Ministry Delegate to the Minister of Interior, Promotion of Decentralisation, and Local Development.The new projects include the construction of three multi-service centers housing medical clinics and schools, the establishment of 24 mosques, the implementation of 50 economic empowerment initiatives and 30 food security projects, as well as the drilling of three artesian wells.The inauguration ceremony was attended by many dignitaries, including Hamza Ould Amar, secretary-general of the Ministry Delegate and Ghanem Mansour al-Nuaimi, chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of Qatar in Mauritania, alongside government officials and representatives of civil society organisations.Engineer Omer Abdelaziz Mohamed, country director of QC’s Mauritania Branch, and Mohamed Salem al-Filali, Mayor of Toujounine Municipality spoke.

In response to the growing need for mental health services in Syria, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has launched a new project to support the Hope Center for Rehabilitation and Psychological Recovery in Afrin, Aleppo.Co-implemented by Shafak Organisation, the project is aimed at promoting mental well-being and improving quality of life, by providing specialised services to handle mild to moderate mental health disorders.The centre will provide medical and mental health care for approximately 4,100 direct beneficiaries from the host community and internally displaced persons (IDPs) over 11 months, including inpatients at accommodation premises, outpatients, beneficiaries of the mobile clinic, and patients referred via the local referral system.These services are provided by a specialised team of physicians, psychiatrists, and social workers. The patients admitted to the centre receive therapeutic interventions as necessary, including the prescription and distribution of psychotropic medications, in accordance with the protocols of the World Health Organisation’s Mental Health Gap Action Programme.Also, the project involves psychoeducation sessions for the beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers, to raise public awareness of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) issues. The project is expected to have more than 20,000 indirect beneficiaries.

HE the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani will join the Gaza negotiations on President Trump’s proposal in Egypt on Wednesday.HE Sheikh Mohammed is traveling to Sharm el-Sheikh to meet with other mediators – including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner – “with the aim of pushing forward the Gaza ceasefire plan and hostage release agreement”, said Dr Majid Mohamed al-Ansari, Advisor to the Prime Minister and the Official Spokesperson.HE Sheikh Mohammed’s “participation confirms the mediators’ determination to reach an agreement that ends the war,” Dr. al-Ansari told Al Jazeera.A Turkish delegation led by intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin will participate in negotiations in Egypt Wednesday aimed at ending the two-year Gaza war, AFP quoted the state-run Anadolu news agency reporting from Istanbul.

Scarpetta at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is proud to present the Michelin Star Experience from 9th to 13th October, featuring Chef Sergio Vineis and his son, Chef Simone, the acclaimed duo behind Italy’s Michelin-starred Il Patio restaurant.Chef Sergio Vineis continues to redefine Italian cuisine by crafting unexpected dishes that blend contemporary flair with a spirit of reinvention. His son, Chef Simone Vineis, naturally grew up in the kitchen, embracing the same creative freedom and drive to innovate. Using only the finest Italian ingredients, each creation is executed with precision and presented with elegance to captivate the modern diner.In partnership with Chef Middle East and Il Patio, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail, invites guests to a week-long culinary celebration. Experience a specially curated à la carte menu alongside exclusive events and sophisticated dining moments, all designed to showcase the richness and artistry of Italian gastronomy in Qatar.The week concludes on 13 October with an exclusive gala dinner, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor Chef Sergio Vineis’s renowned dishes and be part of an unforgettable culinary finale.The event celebrates the very best of Italian cuisine. Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is grateful for the support of its partners, guests as well as the culinary community, and looks forward to more exciting collaborations ahead.Bookings are now open. To reserve your table or for more details, please contact +974 4456 5779 or WhatsApp +974 6673 8442Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail Presents a Michelin-Starred Culinary Journey with Guest Chef Sergio VineisLusail, Qatar - October 10th, 2025 – Scarpetta at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is proud to present the Michelin Star Experience from 9th to 13th October, featuring Chef Sergio Vineis and his son, Chef Simone, the acclaimed duo behind Italy’s Michelin-starred Il Patio restaurant.Chef Sergio Vineis continues to redefine Italian cuisine by crafting unexpected dishes that blend contemporary flair with a spirit of reinvention. His son, Chef Simone Vineis, naturally grew up in the kitchen, embracing the same creative freedom and drive to innovate. Using only the finest Italian ingredients, each creation is executed with precision and presented with elegance to captivate the modern diner.In partnership with Chef Middle East and Il Patio, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail, invites guests to a week-long culinary celebration. Experience a specially curated à la carte menu alongside exclusive events and sophisticated dining moments, all designed to showcase the richness and artistry of Italian gastronomy in Qatar.The week concludes on 13 October with an exclusive gala dinner, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor Chef Sergio Vineis’s renowned dishes and be part of an unforgettable culinary finale.The event celebrates the very best of Italian cuisine. Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is grateful for the support of its partners, guests as well as the culinary community, and looks forward to more exciting collaborations ahead.Bookings are now open. To reserve your table or for more details, please contact +974 4456 5779 or WhatsApp +974 6673 8442

SUSHISAMBA Doha at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail proudly celebrates its third anniversary with an electrifying three-day celebration from October 10th to 12th. Marking a milestone of creativity, community, and cultural blend, the festivities promise an immersive experience where rhythm, flavour, and artistry come together in true SUSHISAMBA style.SUSHISAMBA Doha has captivated guests with its vibrant blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian influences—creating a dining destination that embodies energy and innovation. This anniversary weekend invites guests to dine, dance, and celebrate a world of colour, music, and exceptional cuisine.The celebrations begin on Friday, October 10, with the Anniversary Brunch from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Guests can relive the best of SUSHISAMBA’s past brunches with a curated selection of signature cocktails, a samba parade, and many more live entertainments that set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon capturing the restaurant’s signature vibrance and flair.The excitement continues on Saturday, October 11, with the Beach Club Anniversary, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Set along the stunning Lusail coastline, this exclusive event turns Doha’s premier beach and pool club into a vibrant celebration of music, with DJ Pascal bringing the beats as guests enjoy cocktails, coastal-inspired dishes, and the lively rhythms of samba.The festivities conclude on Sunday, October 12, with a curated Four Hands Dinner from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm. This unique culinary collaboration unites Chef John Um and Chef Esteban Guevara in a masterful tasting experience that showcases their artistry and shared passion for innovation. Each course is paired with live performances creating a lively and immersive dining experience.Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail celebrates its third anniversary with gratitude to its guests, partners, and the vibrant SUSHISAMBA community, looking forward to many more years of unforgettable moments, exceptional dining, and [email protected] or reach out via +974 4456 5774 | 66831580

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a temporary full closure of all roads leading to Al Baladiya Intersection for traffic approaching from all four directions from 12 midnight until 5 am on October 12. The closure that will be implemented in coordination with the General Directorate of Traffic has been announced to carry out road marking works.Ashghal has urged road users to adhere to speed limit, use all available diversion routes and consider rerouting through nearby streets to reach their destinations.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has started construction of the Environmental and Radiological Laboratories. This is, Ashghal said in an X post, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC).The project aims to improve Qatar's capacity for environmental and radiological monitoring and analysis in accordance with international standards through sustainable and environmentally focused projects in addition to promoting public health, environmental protection and the realisation of the Qatar National Vision 2030.The project spans over a building area of about 44,880 sq m. The works include construction of a multi-story main building consisting of a ground floor, first floor, a basement and an external building devoted to radioactive waste management.**media[365827]**Eng. Hashem Mohamed Ali, Project Manager, said the lab is one of Ashghal’s key environmental initiatives, reflecting the strong collaboration with MoECC and Qatar’s commitment to advancing radiological security and global leadership in this field.“The project is progressing on schedule using state-of-the-art technologies aligned with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards to ensure accurate and reliable radiological measurement while providing advanced calibration services for medical, industrial and environmental sectors,” he said.He added that the project adheres to the highest sustainability standards under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) system targeting a 3-star rating for energy efficiency, environmental protection and quality of air, water and materials.In line with Qatar’s support for local products, approximately 70% of the materials used in the project will be locally sourced. The materials include steel, electrical and mechanical components, glass and aluminum.**media[365829]**Eng. Bader Nasser al-Saadi, Coordinator of the Secondary Calibration Laboratories Project for the International Atomic Energy Agency and Qatar and Head of the Radiometric Laboratories Section at the Radiation Control Department of the MoECC, said the laboratory will be built in accordance with the highest international specifications and standards followed in calibration laboratories. IAEA will supply calibration devices and equipment ensuring the quality and accuracy of radiological measurements at the national level.**media[365831]**Eng. Muneera al-Ansari, Project Engineer, said the facility includes three main sections with radiological labs and supporting labs along with administrative offices. There will be additional buildings such as a radioactive waste storage unit, security control centre and smart surveillance systems. She noted the use of advanced digital technology, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) to ensure smooth execution and high precision.With broad hallways, designated facilities, conspicuous signs, ramps in place of stairs, and parking near main entrances, the project has been designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. The building's engineering and architectural design complies with the strictest safety and quality requirements, demonstrating Ashghal's dedication to providing environmentally responsible and sustainable amenities that help create a safer and healthier community in the future.The project follows top quality, safety and sustainability standards and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

The ongoing Expo 2025 Osaka has become a key diplomatic and economic platform aimed at forging deep and long-term partnerships with Qatar and the broader Middle East by moving beyond traditional trade to focus on technology, sustainability, and cultural exchange.Speaking to reporters recently, Masafumi Sugano, director of the International Office for Expo 2025 and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) Deputy Commissioner General, said the event has attracted diplomatic traffic, including over 300 ministerial visits and nearly 100 heads of state, government, and Royal family members, offering an unprecedented occasion for Japan to showcase its vision of a future society.He noted that one of the main aims is converting the Expo’s global platform into business interactions designed to spur fresh trade and investments with different countries, including Gulf nations.“It is an excellent opportunity for Japan to be able to showcase what we envision as future society and also cultural lifestyles,” Sugano noted during a recent briefing on the Expo’s policy significance.He added that METI is utilising the high-level access provided by the Expo to align Japanese expertise directly with the economic diversification goals of Middle Eastern countries. Sugano cited previous deep discussions held with Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia (on achieving its National Vision 2030) as an example of the strategic dialogue being facilitated across various sectors, including mobility, food, and technology.He also cited an example where a series of summits focused on fostering collaboration between Arab and Japanese creators in the gaming industry to produce interesting games.To maximise economic outcomes for Japanese companies, Sugano said METI is implementing several concrete measures during the Expo:Dedicated discussion forums known as “Theme Weeks” tackle specific industry topics, creating structured occasions for intensive B2B interactions.Sugano said the Expo hosted specialised trade and investment delegations from abroad, often coinciding with National Day celebrations, ensuring that business groups and chambers of commerce from nations like Qatar have focused side meetings and visits apart from the general exhibits.A cornerstone of Japan’s offering, and a key area for potential collaboration with Qatar, is the focus on sustainability and the circular economy, he stressed.Beyond business and technology, Sugano said METI views the Expo as crucial for strengthening people-to-people ties—a necessity for robust, long-term relationships.He noted that the intensive, two-to-three-year preparation process undertaken by exhibiting nations, including Qatar, Turkey, Bahrain, and Jordan, prompts Japanese and Middle Eastern teams to overcome regulatory, logistical, and language barriers.“Through this process, these interactions in multiple levels... we managed to, the Japanese and Qatari or Middle Eastern counterparts, have managed to understand each other better and what usually is not possible," Sugano said, stressing that the engagement was “not a superficial one”.He added that these interactions span from dignitaries meeting over coffee to collaborations among musicians and the presence of young Qatari presenters in their national pavilion, all contributing to deeper cultural understanding and confirming high-level co-operation that will lead to greater heights post-Expo.

Qatar Museums (QM) and Teen Arts Awards (TAA) announced a strategic partnership to host the third edition of the International Teen Arts Awards, under the theme “Preserving Cultural Heritage in the Era of New Technologies”.The open call for submissions started yesterday (October 7) and will run until November 15, inviting talented young artists aged 13–17 from around the world to participate in a global platform that nurtures creativity and shapes the future of contemporary culture.The TAA will take place at QM’s Teen Hub, a forward-looking initiative designed to empower teenagers aged 13–19 by providing them with meaningful opportunities in the cultural and creative sectors.In a press statement, Teen Hub director Abdulrahman al-Ishaq said: “By providing a meaningful platform for self-expression, we are empowering the next generation to shape the cultural landscape of tomorrow while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading global hub for arts and culture”.TAA founder Daria Kalinina added: “What makes this initiative truly unique is that we are not asking teenagers to become artists; we are empowering them to recognise that they already are. By fostering their confidence, creativity, and individuality, we provide them with the support and visibility they need to flourish”.Running from December 2–8, the TAA will feature a dynamic series of activities, including public art tours, visits to museums and cultural landmarks across Qatar, workshops on AI and art, explorations of heritage crafts, and sustainable fashion experiences.The programme will also include The Photography Nomination, supported by the British Council and Tasweer Photo Festival, and will culminate in an awards ceremony featuring prize distribution, a digital art exhibition, and visibility grants for the winners.The official partners for the third edition of the International Teen Arts Awards Qatar 2025 are: QM (cultural partner), Ministry of Communications and Information Technology through its “Studio5” programme (educational and innovation partner), British Council (strategic partner), Zurani Art Consulting (art and business education partner), AlBahie Auction House (education and awards partner), and AbuIssa Holding (cultural and awards partner).

Qatar is committed to achieve peace and end the war in Gaza, especially with no let-up in the daily Israeli aggression on the Palestinian people, HE Dr Majid Mohamed al-Ansari, Adviser to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said.The ongoing indirect negotiations between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel in Sharm al-Sheikh in Egypt went on for four hours on Monday and continued Tuesday, he said.Highlighting the complexity of the talks, he said US President Donald Trump's peace plan has 20 points, each of which requires detailed consideration.During his weekly briefing, Dr al-Ansari said Qatar is committed to implementing the plan, and deliver the necessary aid immediately to the people in Gaza."But, we want a clear cut plan to guarantee the effective implementation of Trump's peace plan to avoid giving Israel any excuse to renew their attacks. Negotiations are currently focused on identifying the key obstacles hindering the implementation of President Trump's plan."Dr al-Ansari said Qatar, US and Egypt have been leading the mediation for two years now.He noted that all delegations are presently in Sharm El Sheikh, including the Qatari negotiating team.He also pointed out that Egypt is set to organise an international conference for the reconstruction of Gaza after the end of war, and Qatar strongly supports this.Regarding the future of Hamas in Gaza, he said it is still too early to talk about this. "Qatar believes that the future of the Palestinian people have to be in the hands of Palestinian people themselves. It is a Palestinian issue and it concerns them above all. Since day one of the negotiations, we have said that there is a need to unite the Palestinian people."He said the Hamas political office in Doha is needed for the negotiations.Regarding the handover of the Israeli hostages, he reiterated: "I stress that the US has been clear in linking the end of war with the handover of the hostages to Israel."Reuters adds: On the second day of talks in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, top Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya told Egyptian state-affiliated Al Qahera News TV the group had come "to engage in serious and responsible negotiations."He said Hamas was ready to reach a deal, yet it needed a "guarantee" to end the war and ensure "it is not repeated".Senior Hamas official Fawzi Barhoum said a deal must ensure an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.Dr. Al Ansari said Qatar is currently engaged in more than 10 mediation efforts.Regarding the first Russia-Arab summit on October 15 in Moscow, he noted that the relations between the Arab world, Qatar and Russia are very important.He added that "there is an ongoing war in Ukraine and we are committed to achieve peace and help children in both countries to reunite with their families".

Over 250 exhibitors from more than 25 countries will partake in Big 5 Construct Qatar, the leading construction event in Qatar, alongside INDEX Design Qatar, the country's design and fit-out event, which will take place at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) from October 14 to 16.According to a press release issued Tuesday, the two events will welcome exhibitors from China, India, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, the UAE and the US, something that reflects international interest in the Qatari market, driven by large-scale opportunities.The press release pointed out that the exhibitions will feature diverse exhibitors across the construction and design value chain, from advanced digital construction and facilities management to luxury interiors and sustainable design solutions.It added that by connecting international suppliers with regional buyers, investors and decision-makers, Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design Qatar provide a high-value platform for commercial opportunities, strategic partnerships and securing a stake in Qatar's expanding project pipeline under Qatar's National Vision.Running alongside both events is a series of curated sessions at the CPD-certified Big 5 Talks, which will address critical industry themes and feature interactive panel discussions that aim to enable industry dialogue.These include a panel on "the International Property Measurement Standard (IPMS)", which will address standardization efforts impacting project valuation and development, as well as a session on "Data-driven construction: Using digital tools to optimize delivery and collaboration", which will examine how technology integration enhances project outcomes.For their part, INDEX Design Qatar's INDEX Design Talks will address key trends shaping the interiors sector through a range of specialized presentations and discussions that combine creative vision with practical experience.This includes the keynote presentation "Old but Gold - Learning from History and Nature to Build a Sustainable Future" and the AIA Middle East Panel Discussion on "Women Shaping Sustainable Futures in Design", which will highlight female leadership in sustainable design practices and their impact on regional projects. (

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani issued on Tuesday Law No. 25 of 2025 amending some provisions of the Civil Human Resources Law issued by Law No. 15 of 2016.His Highness also ratified Cabinet Decision No. 34 of 2025 amending some provisions of the executive regulations of the Civil Human Resources Law issued by Cabinet Decision No. 32 of 2016.The amendments include additional incentives and benefits that encourage excellence and aim to enhance the government work environment. They link rewards to performance levels and emphasise the state's drive to enhance work efficiency and the leadership of government institutions, recognise contributions and achievements, encourage innovation and initiative, and promote the principles of responsibility and accountability. This is in line with the state's strategies for investing in human capital and enabling it to engage and interact with a knowledge-based and competitive economy in a way that serves the public interest, benefits society, and enhances the state's position as a leading model in administrative modernisation and human development.The amendments also included specific incentives that contribute to achieving a balance between the demands of work and family life, embodying the commitment to supporting family stability as the bedrock of building a cohesive society and a key driver for advancing sustainable development. This will enhance the implementation of Qatar National Vision 2030 and align with the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030.Both the law and the decision are effective from the date of their issuance, and to be published in the Official Gazette.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) on Tuesday organized a workshop titled 'Activating the National Program for Effective Management of Protected Areas in the State of Qatar', in cooperation with the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and the UNESCO Office for the Gulf States and Yemen. Attended by several national and international officials and experts as well as representatives from government agencies, academic institutions and civil society organizations, the two-day workshop is part of the country's efforts to develop protected area management and align with international environmental obligations. Director of Natural Reserves Department at the MECC, Saleh Hassan Al Kuwari, highlighted the workshop as an important milestone in Qatar's journey towards achieving environmental sustainability and strengthening the national commitment to the Kunming-Montreal 2022 Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to protect 30 percent of the world's land and water by 2030. The workshop, he added, represents a strategic platform for developing effective tools for integrated management of reserves and building an institutional system that ensures continuity and efficiency, based on Qatar National Vision 2030, which balances development requirements with the conservation of natural resources. He pointed out that the workshop discussed several topics, including biodiversity in the country and the reality of protected areas in terms of achievements, challenges, and opportunities. It also reviewed the strategies and tools adopted for planning and managing these areas, emphasizing the importance of translating the workshop's outcomes into realistic implementation plans within specific timeframes. Assistant Director of Natural Reserves Department Nawaf Jabr Al Nuaimi noted the State of Qatar's success in expanding the scope of natural reserves to include 25.5 percent of the land area and 2.28 percent of the marine area, equivalent to approximately 29 percent of the country's total area. These reserves include sites of environmental and cultural significance, such as Khor Al Adaid, Al Reem Reserve, Khor Al Thakhira, and Al Shahaniya Wildlife Breeding Center. He added that these achievements face challenges, including development pressures, unregulated human and tourism activities, and the repercussions of climate change. However, they are also coupled with promising opportunities in the fields of ecotourism and sustainable resource use, with the participation of local communities and the private sector. He explained that the workshop aimed to discuss these challenges and explore practical solutions by assessing the status of the protected area network, measuring the effectiveness of its management, exploring opportunities for international recognition, and developing sustainable financing mechanisms, in preparation for developing a general framework for a national action plan for the effective management of protected areas. This workshop complements the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's efforts to develop reserves management. Previously, the Ministry launched a program to evaluate the administrative effectiveness of protected areas in numerous locations, including Al Dhakira, Khor Al Adaid, Sani', Umm Al Amad, Laareeq, and Al Riffa. The program aims to ensure their compliance with international standards adopted by the Convention on Biological Diversity and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The program seeks to develop a transitional strategy, extending from 2025 to 2028, that includes identifying intervention priorities and administrative planning and building the capacity of the national team through practical training and specialized technical workshops to enhance the readiness of national cadres in the fields of environmental planning and management.

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Tuesday with Minister of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of India Piyush Goyal, who is visiting the country.During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, especially in trade and economy. In addition, they discussed a number of topics of common interest.

His Excellency Director-General of Qatar News Agency (QNA) Ahmed bin Saeed Al Rumaihi met on Tuesday with the Ambassador of the Republic of Finland to the State of Qatar Juha Mustonen. The meeting discussed aspects of joint cooperation between the two countries in the field of media.

Qatar and Cyprus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance their cooperation in maritime transportation fields. Minister of Transport His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani and the Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis signed the MoU on the sidelines of the Maritime Cyprus 2025 Conference.As per the MoU, the two countries will enhance their cooperation on meeting the requirements of international maritime carriage, the complete and efficient use of maritime fleet of both countries, ensuring safety and security at the sea, rising of level of protection of marine environment and the prevention of ship-source pollution, and cooperation on maritime transport, science, technologies and sharing the obtained experience.The MoU reflects the Ministry of Transport’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in maritime transportation and creating a marine environment that is safe and sustainable in step with the goals of the QNV 2030.Following the signing ceremony, the two officials discussed bilateral relations in the areas of transportation, and ways to enhance them, particularly regarding maritime navigation and ports.

The 12th Conference of the Advisory Board on the Law of the Sea (ABLOS), held under the auspices of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the International Association of Geodesy (IAG), opened Tuesday in Doha. The two-day conference is being held from October 7 to 8 under the theme "Is UNCLOS Fit for Purpose in Modern Times? Achievements, Challenges and Future Pathways." The gathering brings together leading experts, academics, and representatives from international and regional marine and ocean affairs bodies to examine gaps in the current legal regime and propose future pathways of reform. In his opening remarks, His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Standing Committee on the Convention on the Law of the Sea, said that Qatar's convening of the conference underscores the strong and fruitful cooperation between the Standing Committee and ABLOS, which began in 2012 following the Committee's participation in the ABLOS working meeting and annual conference held in the Korean capital, Seoul. He noted that Qatar had previously hosted the conference in October 2017. His Excellency Dr. Al Hammadi emphasized Qatar's long-standing partnership with ABLOS, which encompasses not only regular attendance at ABLOS meetings and conferences but also substantive support in promoting the Board's scientific work. He cited, for example, that with ABLOS' approval, the Standing Committee translated the ABLOS "Guide on the Technical Aspects of the Law of the Sea (TALOS)" into Arabic. This, he said, fills a gap in Arabic-language scholarly resources and provides practitioners and researchers across the Arab world with a valuable scientific reference. He further stressed that upholding the rule of law internationally is of significant importance to the State of Qatar, particularly with regard to its vital interests such as sovereignty and sustainable development. He reiterated Doha's support for initiatives aimed at promoting respect for international law. Dr. Al Hammadi also noted that at the previous ABLOS meeting in Brazil, Qatar had the honor of proposing the main theme for this year's conference. He remarked that the challenges under discussion cannot be resolved overnight, as they require sustained effort over many years. He affirmed the commitment to push forward on reform pathways. The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished figures, including the President of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Judge Tomas Heidar, Director of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi, and President of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) Dr. Richard Gross.

Compass International School Doha is delighted to share that our Gharaffa Campus has recently been honoured with the prestigious Clear Flag Award by Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education.The Clear Flag Award recognises schools that go above and beyond to provide a safe, supportive, and values-driven environment for students. To receive this award, schools must demonstrate a strong partnership with parents, maintain a record free from complaints or violations, and show a consistent commitment to high-quality education and care. The award is a celebration of schools that create spaces where students feel safe, confident, and ready to learn every day.What is the Clear Flag Award?The Clear Flag Award is one of the highest recognitions given to private schools and kindergartens in Qatar. It is awarded only to schools that:Have no complaints or violations during the academic year.Demonstrate a positive and transparent relationship with parents.Show full commitment to accuracy, professionalism, and timely communication with the Ministry of Education.This recognition is not given lightly – it represents years of hard work, care, and dedication. Winning the Clear Flag Award shows that a school not only meets expectations but sets the benchmark for excellence in safety, wellbeing, and community trust.Principal Jamie Hughes said:“This recognition is a proud moment for our whole Compass community. It reflects the care and dedication of our staff, the trust of our families, and the safe and inspiring environment we provide for every student. It is a wonderful confirmation of what we work toward every single day.”Lorna McNab, Head of Primary at Gharaffa Campus, added:“This award shines a light on the incredible relationships we have built with our families and the positive, nurturing atmosphere that our children enjoy. At Gharaffa, we are truly one community working together to help every child succeed.”This achievement underlines Compass International School Doha’s dedication to excellence, and we look forward to continuing to build on this success together with our families and wider community.As part of the Nord Anglia Education leading premium international schools, Compass International School shapes a generation of creative and resilient global citizens who graduate with everything they need for future success. The school’s strong academic foundations combine world-class teaching and internationally recognised curricula with cutting-edge technology and facilities, creating a learning environment for students to thrive in. Our family of 80+ schools in 30+ countries around the world cultivates an approach to learning that is personalised and provides students with unforgettable experiences through partnerships with world-renowned institutions The Juilliard School, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and UNICEF. As one of the most established schools in Qatar, Compass International School inspires students to achieve outstanding academic results and go on to study at the world’s leading universities.To learn more or apply for a place for your child, go to Compass International School