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Euronews has announced the launch of Euronews Travel, a new channel dedicated to tourism and travel, as part of a strategic partnership with Media City Qatar.The new channel represents a significant expansion of the Euronews brand, aimed at diversifying content offerings, creating new revenue streams, and reaching wider global audiences. Euronews Travel will focus on travel storytelling through vertical video formats, premium magazine-style content, and new flagship productions, including Grand Voyageur.The channel will initially be available on the Euronews website, digital platforms, and YouTube, with a pilot phase scheduled to begin next week. It will later expand to smart television platforms, followed by a full launch on paid television networks worldwide starting in February.Jassim Mohamed al-Khouri, Chief Executive Officer of Media City Qatar, said the launch from Doha reflects the strength of the partnership between the two entities.“Euronews is one of the world’s leading news networks, reaching more than 400mn homes globally,” al-Khouri said. “Our partnership with Euronews spans five years and has focused on producing high-quality content in key sectors, including travel, tourism, and health.”**media[394840]**He pointed to the success of the Qatar 365 programme, which attracted hundreds of thousands of viewers across social media platforms and YouTube.“Euronews Travel builds on this success by delivering modern, globally focused tourism content that highlights distinctive destinations around the world,” he added.Al-Khouri noted that more than 300 companies are now registered with Media City Qatar, including major international media organisations, stressing that the goal is to support their expansion and reinforce Qatar’s position as a regional and global media hub.Klaus Strunz, Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief of Euronews, described the project as a major global media initiative.“Our aim is to create a global platform that showcases tourism opportunities and presents destinations, including Doha, to international audiences,” Strunz said. He added that Euronews considers travel “an integral part of journalism”, noting that accurate information enables audiences to make informed decisions.Strunz also said Euronews’ interest in the region is driven by its cultural richness and diversity, underscoring the importance of presenting realities accurately to global audiences. 

His Excellency the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Sayed affirmed that Qatari investments are growing in the Arab Republic of Egypt, and that concerted efforts are underway for industrial and investment integration and co-operation between the two countries.Talking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the sidelines of the Egyptian-Qatari Investment Forum in Cairo, HE Dr al-Sayed said that this forum was held under the directives of the leadership of both countries and as a continuation of the exchange of visits between Qatari and Egyptian officials to enhance opportunities for joint co-operation.He explained that the Egyptian economy possesses many competitive advantages, noting in this regard the Egyptian market's access to European markets due to the free trade agreements between Egypt and the European Union. He pointed out that this is important for increasing the flow of Qatari exports and investments to European markets.Regarding efforts to attract investment to the State of Qatar, HE Dr al-Sayed said that Qatar has established a sophisticated infrastructure and an attractive investment regulatory environment in recent years, emphasising the importance of attracting Egyptian investments to Qatar in the coming period.He also encouraged Egyptian companies to use Qatar as a base for accessing Asian markets for Egyptian goods, while calling for further joint investments between the private sectors of both countries to accelerate economic growth, as the private sector plays a fundamental role in driving this growth.HE Dr al-Sayed noted that trade figures between the two countries have witnessed a steady increase in recent years, hoping for a significant increase in the coming period, as well as an increase in the flow of capital between the two countries, ultimately leading to economic and investment integration.HE Dr al-Sayed and the Egyptian Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Eng Hassan El Khatib inaugurated the Egyptian-Qatari Investment Forum, in the presence of ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Arab Republic of Egypt and its Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulrahman al-Thani.The forum addressed a number of topics including prospects for investment co-operation between the two countries and strengthening the economic partnership between Egypt and Qatar, vision for real estate and tourism investment and the role of financial services in enabling projects, in addition to the role of the logistics sector as an engine for economic growth, and enhancing competitiveness in industry: innovative solutions and effective partnerships. 

The Philippines has showcased unified efforts to promote the country’s diverse offerings, including halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, as part of its bid to attract Qatari travellers during the recently held Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025. The Department of Tourism (DoT), led by Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, and the Philippine embassy in Qatar, joined forces with other government agencies during the event to position the Philippines as a premier travel destination and highlight the country’s hospitality and cultural richness. Valderrosa-Abubakar said the Philippine delegation’s presence was part of a broader effort to highlight readiness and inclusivity, adding that the participation at QTM 2025 reflected a “whole-of-nation” approach, with representatives from local government, the private sector, and Muslim affairs joining the campaign. She explained that the DoT has institutionalised Muslim-friendly tourism through Memorandum Circular 2024-003, which sets six guidelines for accredited establishments. “As of today, we have already recognised 42 accommodation establishments throughout the country to be Muslim-friendly,” she said, citing Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ 13 properties receiving the ‘Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment’ certification, and Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR) as among those inspected by the DoT. The accreditation requires staff training, Qibla directional markers in rooms, alcohol-free minibars, and listings of nearby mosques and halal restaurants, Valderrosa-Abubakar further explained. Beyond accreditation, the DoT has rolled out new facilities and tools, stated Valderrosa-Abubakar, who pointed to the launch of a Muslim-friendly travel log, accessible via QR code, and the opening of the Marhaba Boracay Cove, an “800sq m beach area exclusively for Muslim travellers”. “After Marhaba Cove, Bohol province is also looking for a place that can be converted to a beach cove for our Muslim brothers and sisters,” she told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the travel mart, adding that hotels in Cebu are being prepared ahead of the Asean Tourism Forum 2026. Asked about developments in the Philippines’ inbound tourism, the undersecretary noted that there’s been a “10%” increase from 2023 to 2024, describing the growth as “steady, not stagnant but increasing”. According to Valderrosa-Abubakar, Malaysia ranks among the Philippines’ top 10 source markets. She also said the DoT is benchmarking with Thailand’s halal tourism model and learning from Japan’s service providers to strengthen its offerings. Valderrosa-Abubakar also underscored the impact of halal certification on Muslim tourists, citing how halal-certified Filipino food had impressed a top tourism officer from Brunei. This reception demonstrates both readiness and innovation, positioning halal tourism as a bridge to stronger ties with the Gulf market, she added. 

The formation of the Board of Directors of the Organizing Committee for the 21st Asian Games – Doha 2030 was announced Sunday, chaired by His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, with the membership of His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, Minister of Municipality; His Excellency Abdullah bin Khalaf Khattab al-Kaabi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior; and His Excellency Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism.The committee also includes His Excellency Jassim bin Rashid al-Buenain, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee; HE Mohammed bin Hassan al- Malki, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry; HE Yasser bin Abdullah al-Jamal, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth; H.E. Mohammed bin Khalifa al-Suwaidi, Director General of Hamad Medical Corporation; HE. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Meer, President of the Public Works Authority; and Dr. Abdulrahman Mohammed Yousuf Jolo, Assistant Undersecretary for Financial Policy Affairs at the Ministry of Finance.HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Organizing Committee for the 21st Asian Games – Doha 2030, said: “Forming the Board of Directors of the Organizing Committee for the Doha 2030 Asian Games is a fundamental step in preparing for this major continental event and places us on a practical path toward implementing our hosting plans. This formation embodies the principle of joint national work, which experience has shown to be the foundation for achieving national success. It also reflects the leadership’s confidence in the ability of national talent to organize major sporting events.”His Excellency affirmed that the Doha 2030 Asian Games represent a continuation of the development path witnessed in Qatar’s sports sector, as the committee works to deliver an edition that meets the aspirations of the Asian continent, adopting an approach based on innovation and sustainability that establishes a legacy benefiting future generations. He noted that Doha possesses the experience and capabilities that enable it to deliver an exceptional edition that adds to the achievements of Asian sport.He added that preparations for this edition build on the legacy of the Doha 2006 Asian Games, a milestone that marked an important turning point in Qatar’s sporting journey. He emphasized that its impact remains present to this day, providing a strong foundation from which Doha moves toward a more advanced edition that reflects the status of Qatar, its achievements over recent years, and its ambitions for the next stage.Qatar had won the hosting rights for the 2030 Asian Games in December 2020 after presenting an outstanding bid that confirmed its full readiness to host the Games for the second time, supported by advanced infrastructure and sports facilities that meet the highest international standards. Today, Qatar reaffirms this readiness years ahead of the event, drawing on an exceptional legacy built over the past years.This legacy rests on a system of modern sports facilities, stadiums, integrated training complexes, transportation networks, and supporting service infrastructure, allowing Qatar to deliver an exceptional edition of the Asian Games without the need to construct new facilities.In addition to the physical legacy, the major sporting events hosted by Qatar in recent years have contributed to building a sustainable human legacy represented in the operational and organizational expertise gained by national cadres through a series of milestones that solidified Qatar’s position as a global capital of sport.The Qatar Olympic Committee has played a pivotal role in developing this legacy by supervising sports federations, enhancing governance, improving institutional readiness for hosting continental and international events, and preparing national cadres with strong operational and organizational experience through their participation in hosting events such as the Doha 2006 Asian Games and many championships held under national federations.This institutional, human, and operational legacy forms a solid foundation for the Doha 2030 Asian Games Organizing Committee, as the Qatar Olympic Committee now possesses an integrated system of experience, knowledge, and expertise that enables it to lead preparations for this continental event with high efficiency and deliver an edition that meets the aspirations of the Asian continent and reflects the development of Qatari sport.By hosting the Doha 2030 Asian Games, Qatar seeks to reinforce its leadership in the sports field by presenting an exceptional edition that combines organizational excellence, expanding the base of sports and sporting culture within the community, and building a lasting legacy that contributes to enhancing the capabilities of future generations. 

The FIFA Arab Cup, which is currently underway, is expected to give a fillip to Doha's tourism and retail sectors, according to Cushman and Wakefield Qatar (CWQ)."Looking ahead, the FIFA Arab Cup is expected to further stimulate regional tourism activity and strengthen Qatar's position as a leading sports and events destination," CWQ said in its latest report.The long-term potential for tourism growth has been reinforced by major catalysts in 2025, including the approval of the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) unified tourist visa, which will enable multi-country Gulf travel from late 2025, and the expansion of air connectivity to Australia through the Qatar Airways-Virgin Australia partnership.While performance in the hotel sector is improving, it said private sector appetite for new development remains subdued in 2025 and is unlikely to strengthen until rising visitor numbers translate into sustained growth in average daily rates across the market.In the first half of 2025, Qatar attracted a record breaking 2.6mn international visitors with a further 915,000 visitors in the third quarter (Q3) representing a slight decrease of 0.54% on an annualised basis.The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries represented the largest share of the tourist market at 36%, followed by European countries (25%), Asia and Oceania (22%), the Americas (7%), other Arab countries (7%) and the rest of Africa (3%).CWQ said within the hotel sector, one to three stars reflect the best performance with 84% occupancy, possibly reflecting the lack of supply against four and five-star establishments. Serviced apartments have decreased slightly withy 68% occupancy recorded between July and September 2025.Room demand reached 7.7mn nights between the first and third quarter of 2025, an 8% increase against the same period in 2024. The average daily rate (ADR) fell 1.6% from QR377 to QR371.On the retail sector, which remained stable through Q3 2025, supported by resilient consumer spending and continued tourism growth; CWQ said it is expected to provide a strong boost to the sector through elevated tourist arrivals and event-driven spending.Increased footfall across malls, dining destinations, and entertainment venues is anticipated as regional visitors extend their stays for shopping and leisure, it said.Retailers are likely to benefit from higher short-term sales volumes, particularly in F&B (food and beverages), sports merchandise, and experiential outlets; while landlords may capitalise through pop-up activations and extended trading hours during the tournament period."Looking ahead to the final quarter, a healthy performance in the retail sector is expected, supported by increased tourism levels and the continued prominence of prime retail and lifestyle-driven real estate destinations," it said.CWQ said performance varied across retail formats, with destination malls and lifestyle real estate outperforming older community malls, showcasing the shift in consumer preferences.While retail activity remains largely driven by domestic demand, the Q3-2025 data indicates continued strength in the sector, supported by a 2.2% year-on-year rise in tourist arrivals against the same quarter in 2024.Prime retail is performing strongly, with rents for line stores now exceeding 320 per sq m per month and even higher for small units, supported by strong occupancy levels and high footfall; while secondary retail such as community malls typically achieves lower rents, ranging from 180 to 230 per sq m per month.New supply is largely composed of open-air retail destinations with rents in the range of QR150–200 per sq m per month. Upcoming developments such as The Avenues in Al Waab and Bahara Town in Abu Hamour are expected to launch in 2026, with quoted rents ranging from QR180–220 per sq m per month.Over the past year, climate-controlled, open-air, pedestrianised, retail and F&B destinations have been successful in attracting strong tenant demand and higher rents than legacy projects, highlighting the importance of cooling technology in the prevailing climate, according to CWQ.

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). 

The governor of Misamis Occidental province in the Philippines has underscored the importance of reciprocal business missions between Qatar and Northern Mindanao, describing delegation exchanges as a key pathway to explore investment opportunities in various sectors.Governor Henry S Oaminal emphasised to Gulf Times that tourism, agriculture, transportation, and food security are among the investment areas that could be explored either through business-to-business (B2B) or government-to-government (G2G) strategies.According to Oaminal, tourism promotion is being positioned alongside trade and agriculture to strengthen ties with Doha. “It can go hand in hand; the trade relationship can be posted to enhance one’s economy, particularly in Mindanao, specifically in my home province, Misamis Occidental,” the governor explained.He further said, “We are a developing province, having the potential for trade investment and agriculture. Then there is tourism, which is being highlighted by the government. We are currently developing our mountains and coastal areas, so we can organise an inbound mission from Qatar to Mindanao, and eventually, vice versa from our region to promote trade and tourism relations.”Oaminal highlighted Misamis Occidental’s natural attractions as part of the pitch to Qatari investors. He also confirmed that investment opportunities are being opened for Qatar in multiple sectors, including transportation, food security, and dairy farms.The governor said discussions with Qatari travel operators were held during the recently concluded Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025, with plans to invite them to Mindanao for a travel operators convention.“Conversely, we will also be organising an outbound mission comprising a delegation from Misamis Occidental to explore Qatar and the many possibilities where we can establish good business relationships, not only in trade but in all aspects,” Oaminal explained.Asked for a timeline for these plans, Oaminal projected that the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental would send an outbound mission to Doha “by the first quarter of 2026.”Aside from visiting QTM 2025, Oaminal was in Qatar as part of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) business delegation, which held high-level meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), tourism officials, and Qatar Chamber, among others.The PCCI delegation was led by its president, Enunina V Mangio, discussed co-operation relations and networking with Qatar Chamber. The Philippine delegation comprised 40 people representing about 30 companies across sectors such as labour, real estate, monorails, construction, and water technology, Mangio told this paper on the sidelines of QTM 2025. 

Msheireb Properties, the leading sustainable real estate developer in Qatar, won four awards at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025, marking Msheireb’s continued success at the prestigious awards for the third consecutive year. The Awards, presented by Qatar Tourism and World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), recognise innovation and excellence in the nation’s tourism sector, aiming to raise awareness of Qatar as a world-class tourism and leisure destination. Msheireb Properties received recognition across multiple categories: Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) was named Leading Sustainable Attraction: in the hospitality sector, Ammar Samad from Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som received the Community Leadership award; The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha won Exceptional Spa Experience; and Liang at Mandarin Oriental, Doha was recognised for Exceptional Fine Dining Experience. These recognitions reflect Msheireb Properties’ integrated approach to creating destinations that honour Qatari heritage whilst embracing innovation, sustainability, and cultural excellence. From MDD’s pioneering sustainable urban development and smart city technologies to Msheireb Museums’ preservation of Qatar’s rich heritage through immersive storytelling, the awards acknowledge the commitment to meaningful experiences that serve both residents and visitors whilst supporting Qatar National Vision 2030. Msheireb Properties CEO Ali Mohammed al-Kuwari said: “This recognition celebrates the collective efforts of our entire team in creating meaningful experiences that honour Qatari heritage whilst embracing innovation and excellence across all aspects of our work. We remain committed to developing destinations that are not only sustainable and accessible, but also deeply rooted in authentic Qatari culture and values”. As a key cultural and tourist destination, MDD contributes to the growth of Qatar’s tourism sector by promoting cultural exchange, nurturing social interaction, and championing sustainability. The city embodies the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, accessibility, and responsible tourism. “These recognitions reflect the dedication of our entire team across all our divisions. We remain committed to preserving Qatar’s rich cultural heritage whilst pushing the boundaries of sustainable development and inclusive design,” al-Kuwari said. 

Lusail International Circuit (LIC), Qatar's premier motorsport venue, announced its double triumph at the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. Last year’s Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, hosted at LIC from November 29 to December 1 has won awards in two prestigious categories: Premier Sport Event of the Year under World Class Events, and Outstanding Destination Campaign under Digital Footprint.These accolades, presented in partnership with the World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), recognise the exceptional contributions of Qatar's tourism and hospitality leaders.Selected from over 1,160 submissions and evaluated by a distinguished jury of local and international experts, the awards highlight innovations that elevate Qatar as a top tier destination. The Qatar Grand Prix 2024 stood out for its unparalleled sporting spectacle and its innovative digital campaigns that captivated global audiences, showcasing Qatar's vibrant tourism landscape."This double win is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Lusail International Circuit, as well as our partners at Qatar Tourism and Formula 1. We are truly grateful to the global community that made this possible," said Abdulaziz Ali al-Mohannadi, CEO of Lusail International Circuit. "Hosting the Qatar Grand Prix not only delivers thrilling on track action but also positions Qatar as a hub for international events, blending high speed excitement with cultural and touristic experiences that draw visitors from around the world."For LIC, these awards underscore the circuit's role in driving Qatar's tourism growth through world class events and cutting-edge digital engagement. The recognition affirms LIC's commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, further solidifying its status as a key player in the global motorsport and tourism arenas.LIC in a statement said it extends its deepest gratitude to its passionate fans worldwide who attended the 2024 event. Their enthusiasm and support have been the fuel behind LIC's success.LIC is gearing up for an even more spectacular Qatar Grand Prix, which is slated to be held from today until Sunday. With enhanced fan experiences, innovative activations, and a continued focus on digital outreach, LIC aims to build on this momentum and create lasting memories for attendees from every corner of the globe.

Qatar Museums (QM) has been recognised with several prestigious distinctions at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025 which was co-organised by Qatar Tourism and the UN World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).In total, QM received four awards at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025, recognising excellence across multiple areas of cultural tourism.The Museum of Islamic Art won the Outstanding Cultural Tourism Experience Award; National Museum of Qatar won the Iconic Local Attraction Award; Qatar Museums (Institutional) won the Tourism Innovation Award; and Director of the Museum of Islamic Art ,Shaikha Nasser Al Nassr won the Emerging Leader in Tourism Award.Qatar Museums CEO, Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihicommented: "The recognition we have received at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025 is a powerful validation of our vision to place culture at the heart of national development. These achievements reinforce Qatar Museums' position as a global centre for art and culture, delivering world-class, authentic and memorable visitor experiences that continue to elevate our nation's cultural standing on the world stage."QC+, QM's strategic group for creative and commercial growth, was also shortlisted in four areas across its F&B and Hospitality portfolio, recognizing its dedication to cultural expression, and guest experience. This year's awards attracted more than 1,160 submissions, which were evaluated by a distinguished international jury from a shortlist of 195 entries.The 2025 edition also introduced an Alumni Network and new sub-categories like "Hotelier of the Year," reinforcing the event's role in driving continuous innovation and supporting Qatar National Vision 2030.

Key officials from the Philippines’ public and private sectors expressed collective optimism about robust investment collaboration with Qatar in tourism, agriculture, transportation, and trade.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025, Department of Tourism (DoT) Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar underscored the country’s unified presence in the event’s fourth edition, which will run until November 24 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).“Our participation in the event reflects the Department of Tourism’s keenness to not only promote the Philippines as a tourism destination but also to include halal tourism and Muslim-friendly tourism as our offering to the people of Qatar,” Valderrosa-Abubakar pointed out.**media[385855]**She added that the DoT’s participation, in partnership with the Embassy of the Philippines in the State of Qatar, was part of a broader effort to highlight the country’s readiness to welcome Muslim travellers and showcase its diverse tourism portfolio.From the provincial front, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S Oaminal emphasised the natural attractions of Northern Mindanao as a key draw for international visitors. He said: “We have development initiatives on both our mountain and coastal areas; we have a beach resort that is multi-inspired because it has an ocean villa presentation and dolphin islands nearby.”He explained that tourism promotion was being positioned alongside trade and agriculture to strengthen ties with Qatar, noting that inbound missions from Doha to Mindanao could be complemented by outbound delegations from the province of Misamis Occidental.Meanwhile, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Enunina V Mangio highlighted the chamber’s direct engagement with Qatari counterparts.**media[385856]**“That’s why we’re bringing a group of individuals who are all engaged in different sectors, and we will try to match them with their counterparts in Qatar,” Mangio explained, adding that the PCCI is keen on sharing best practices, technology transfer, partnerships, and investment exchange.Today (November 25), the PCCI is meeting officials of Qatar Chamber to discuss co-operation relations and networking. The Philippine delegation comprises 40 people representing about 30 companies across sectors such as labour, real estate, monorails, construction, and water technology, Mangio noted.Aside from Qatar Chamber, Mangio said the PCCI delegation is expected to hold meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar Investment Authority, and tourism authorities.Mangio emphasised that the Philippines is ready to deepen its partnership with Qatar, leveraging tourism as a gateway to trade and investment, while ensuring that the PCCI will highlight the key role that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and regional provinces play in strengthening Qatar-Philippines investment ties.

After years of delays, Cairo is finally set to open the Grand Egyptian Museum on Saturday -- a long-awaited, billion-dollar showcase of pharaonic grandeur that Egypt hopes will help revive tourism and boost its troubled economy. Seventy-nine delegations, including 39 heads of state and government, are expected at the ceremony, which begins at 7:30 pm local time (1730 GMT). Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Spain and Denmark will be among those sending representatives, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency. In the nights leading up to the opening, shafts of light have illuminated both the pyramids and the museum's colossal facade -- a prelude to Saturday's spectacle. Set on a gentle slope overlooking the Giza Plateau, just beyond the shadow of the pyramids, the museum was built with major financial and technical support from Japan, and spreads across nearly half a million square metres. It houses more than 100,000 artefacts, half of which will be on display, making it the world's largest collection devoted to a single civilisation, according to Egyptian officials. Inside, visitors will enter vast, light-filled halls with soaring ceilings and sand-coloured stone walls that echo the surrounding desert. **media[375988]** At the centre of the main atrium stands an 83-tonne statue of Ramses II, the pharaoh who ruled Egypt for 66 years and presided over its golden age. Unlike the cramped, century-old Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) features immersive galleries, precision lighting, virtual-reality exhibits and even a children's museum. One highlight is a live conservation lab, visible through floor-to-ceiling glass, where visitors can watch restorers assembling a 4,500-year-old solar boat buried near Khufu's pyramid. The undisputed star of the show, however, is King Tutankhamun's collection of more than 5,000 objects, many displayed together for the first time. The museum opens to the public on Tuesday, showcasing thousands of funerary artefacts previously scattered across Egypt. Setbacks More than two decades in the making, the GEM faced multiple hurdles, including political unrest, regional conflicts and the Covid-19 pandemic. Observers caution that its long-term success depends on stable tourism and strong supporting infrastructure. Egyptian archeologist Hussein Bassir said the museum's future hinges on "regular maintenance to preserve the building and its treasures". "If the current momentum is not maintained, the museum could quickly lose its appeal and visitor numbers could drop," he told AFP. Egypt's tourism sector, a vital source of foreign currency and jobs, has been repeatedly shaken over the past decade and a half, from the 2011 uprising to waves of unrest and sporadic terrorist attacks in the aftermath. **media[375986]** Elhamy al-Zayat, former head of the Egyptian Tourism Federation, told AFP the museum was part of a broader plan to transform the entire Giza Plateau. "Egypt has created an entirely new cultural and tourist zone" at the plateau, with a nearby airport and upgraded visitor facilities at the pyramids, he said. Roads leading to the plateau have been refurbished, digital ticketing introduced and air-conditioned electric buses now glide past the pyramids. In recent years, tourism has shown signs of recovery, with 15 million visitors travelling to Egypt in the first nine months of 2025 and generating $12.5 billion, up 21 percent from a year earlier. Officials believe the GEM alone could draw up to seven million visitors annually, potentially bringing total visitor numbers to 30 million by 2030. Yet some observers are cautious, saying regional instability, including the conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, as well as economic pressures, threaten to challenge the museum's potential to deliver a major boost for Egypt's tourism sector.