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The 20th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 will kick off in Doha on Monday, running until November 27, with the participation of 48 national teams — the largest number in the tournament's history.This edition marks the first of five consecutive tournaments that Doha will host through 2029. Matches will take place across eight stadiums within Aspire Academy over 25 days, featuring a total of 104 matches, with eight games played daily throughout the various stages of the competition.The final match will carry special significance, as it will be held at Khalifa International Stadium, one of the iconic venues of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.The Qatar national team will officially open the tournament, facing Italy at 6:45 pm tomorrow (Monday) on Pitch No. 7 at Aspire, in Group A, which also includes South Africa and Bolivia.Al-Annabi is aiming for a strong start and a successful campaign, hoping to surpass its best-ever result — fourth place in the 1991 edition in Italy. That remains Qatar's standout achievement from its seven previous appearances in 1985, 1987, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1999, and 2005.Under the leadership of Spanish coach Alvaro Mejia, the Qatari squad has undergone a thorough preparation period, including participation in several tournaments and friendly matches.In the final stage of preparations, the Qatari U-17 team held an overseas training camp, where they played a series of friendly matches — losing 2–1 to Belgium, 3–0 to Croatia, and defeating Ukraine 2–1. The technical staff also utilized last month’s GCC U-17 Cup in Doha to give all players opportunities across different lineups in preparation for the World Cup.The opening day of the tournament will feature eight matches ahead of the official opening ceremony.The first match will see Bolivia, making its third appearance in the tournament, face South Africa, which is participating for the second time, at 3:30 pm on Aspire Field No. 3, as part of Group A fixtures.In the second match, Costa Rica, taking part for the 11th time, will meet the United Arab Emirates, marking the first Arab appearance in this year's edition and the UAE’s fourth participation overall. This match will kick off at 3:30 pm on Aspire Field No. 8, within Group C, which also features a clash between Senegal, making its third appearance, and Croatia, appearing for the fourth time, scheduled for 4:00 pm on Aspire Field No. 1.Meanwhile, Morocco, competing in the tournament for the third time, will start its campaign with a tough match against Japan, a team with a strong record of ten previous appearances, at 4:30 pm on Aspire Field No. 5, as part of Group B. In the same group, Portugal, the 2025 European champion, will take on New Caledonia at 6:15 pm on Aspire Field No. 4.Also on the schedule, Tunisia, which has appeared in three previous World Cups, will open its Group D campaign against Fiji, making its debut appearance in the tournament, at 6:45 pm on Aspire Field No. 8. The same group will also see a high-profile encounter between Argentina, third-place finisher in the 2003 edition, and Belgium, which finished third in 2015, set for 5:45 pm on Aspire Field No. 2.**media[376395]**The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 is being held in a single location, designed to create a football carnival atmosphere, as the areas surrounding the eight stadiums within Aspire Zone will serve as fan zones throughout the tournament.This year’s edition marks the beginning of a major transformation introduced by FIFA to its youth tournaments. The Doha U-17 World Cup is the first FIFA competition ever to feature an expanded lineup of 48 teams. It also introduces another significant change: the tournament will now be held annually instead of every two years, as was the case under the previous system.According to the new tournament format, the 48 teams have been divided into 12 groups of four. Each group will compete in a round-robin format, with the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, advancing to the Round of 32 — for a total of 32 teams moving on to the knockout stage.The knockout rounds will follow a structured elimination format, beginning with the Round of 32, followed by the Round of 16, quarterfinals, and semifinals, culminating in the final match, which will take place on November 27 at Khalifa International Stadium.Prior to the draw, held in Doha at the end of May, FIFA allocated the 48 participating teams into four seeding pots based on their performances in the last five U-17 World Cups, with 12 teams in each pot. As the host nation, Qatar was placed in Pot 1 and seeded at the top of Group A.According to the draw, the teams were divided as follows:Group A: Qatar (hosts), Italy, South Africa, BoliviaGroup B: Japan, Morocco, New Caledonia, PortugalGroup C: Senegal, Croatia, Costa Rica, United Arab EmiratesGroup D: Argentina, Belgium, Tunisia, FijiGroup E: England, Venezuela, Haiti, EgyptGroup F: Mexico, South Korea, Côte d’Ivoire, SwitzerlandGroup G: Germany, Colombia, North Korea, El SalvadorGroup H: Brazil, Honduras, Indonesia, ZambiaGroup I: United States, Burkina Faso, Tajikistan, Czech RepublicGroup J: Paraguay, Uzbekistan, Panama, IrelandGroup K: France, Chile, Canada, UgandaGroup L: Mali, New Zealand, Austria, Saudi ArabiaThe Local Organizing Committee has made all necessary arrangements to ensure the tournament is presented in the best possible manner, with expectations that it will be highly successful, given Qatar’s extensive experience in hosting major international events.

President of the Asian Confederation of Billiard Sports (ACBS), Mohamed Salem Al Nuaimi, praised Qatar's outstanding organization of the Qatar World Cup 10-Ball Championship 2025, describing the event as a clear demonstration of the country's exceptional ability to host major global tournaments at the highest international standards.In a press statement, Al Nuaimi said this edition of the championship ranks among the best in the history of World 10-Ball events — both in terms of the number and caliber of participants, and the high technical level displayed throughout the competitions up to the semifinals.He stressed that Qatar, represented by the Qatar Billiard Sports Federation (QBSF), continues to deliver world-class organization of international tournaments, adding that the success of this championship reflects Qatar's strategic vision and long-term commitment to hosting major sporting events.Al Nuaimi emphasized that the championship's success was no coincidence, but rather the result of tireless work by all organizing committees and highly skilled Qatari professionals, whose vast experience in managing international competitions has earned praise from players and global officials alike. He underlined that such professionalism has firmly established Doha as a global hub for billiards and snooker.He pointed out that the tournament witnessed intense and exceptional competition from start to finish — from the preliminary rounds to the main draw and knockout stages — which saw several world champions and top-ranked players exit early, further underscoring the exceptional standard of play.The ACBS President affirmed that this year's edition of the World 10-Ball Championship has made a significant contribution to the global growth of the sport, commending the QBSF's pivotal role in advancing billiards and snooker regionally and internationally.He noted that Doha has once again proven itself as the sporting capital of the world, thanks to its world-class infrastructure and highly professional organization across all sports, particularly billiards and snooker. He also highlighted that Doha holds the rights to host the World 10-Ball Championship for five consecutive editions, through 2028.Al Nuaimi praised the progress of Qatari players, noting their strong performances in both the preliminary and main rounds. He commended Ali Al Obaidli for his impressive showing, reaching the Round of 64 before being eliminated by top-ranked and former world champions.He revealed that, following the conclusion of the World 10-Ball Championship, Doha will host the World Snooker Championship from November 3 to 13, with the preliminary rounds to be held at the Federation's hall before moving to the newly refurbished Ezdan Palace Hotel from November 8 for the main stages.Expressing confidence in Qatar's national team, Al Nuaimi — who also serves as Secretary-General of the QBSF — said he expects strong performances from the Qatari players, led by world champion Ali Al Obaidli, who possesses the experience and determination to make another deep run following his 2023 world title.In conclusion, Al Nuaimi reaffirmed that the Asian and Qatari federations continue to work closely to develop the sport both locally and continentally, stressing that Qatar will always remain at the forefront of nations hosting world-class sporting events that go beyond organization to deliver inspiring, exceptional experiences for the global sporting community.

Jordan and Germany said on Saturday that an international force expected to support a future Palestinian police in Gaza under US President Donald Trump's post-war governance plan should have a UN mandate.Under the US-brokered ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, a coalition of mainly Arab and Muslim nations is expected to deploy forces in the Palestinian territory, which has been devastated by the war that broke out on October 7, 2023 with Hamas's attack on Israel.The so-called international stabilisation force is supposed to train and support vetted Palestinian police in the Strip, with backing from Egypt and Jordan, as well as secure border areas and prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas."We all agree that in order for that stabilisation force to be able to be effective in getting the job done, it has to have a Security Council mandate," Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said.Jordan, however, will not be sending its own forces to the Strip."We're too close to the issue and we cannot deploy troops in Gaza," Safadi said, adding his country was nonetheless ready to cooperate with the international force.Safadi was speaking at the IISS Manama Dialogue conference in Bahrain alongside his German counterpart Johann Wadephul, who also supported a UN mandate for the force, saying it would "need a clear basis in international law"."We understand that this is of utmost importance to those countries who might be willing to send troops to Gaza and for the Palestinians. Germany would also want to see a clear mandate for this mission," Wadephul said.The idea of the stabilisation force has drawn some criticism, with UN experts last month warning it would "replace Israeli occupation with a US-led occupation, contrary to Palestinian self-determination".The UN has mandated international peacekeeping forces in the region for decades, including UNIFIL in southern Lebanon, which is currently working with the Lebanese army to enforce a November 2024 ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel.

Since its inaugural edition in China in 1985, the FIFA U-17 World Cup has featured 84 national teams. The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, marking the tournament’s 20th edition, will kick off this Monday at Aspire Zone and run until November 27, culminating with the final at Khalifa International Stadium.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 will be the seventh time the tournament is staged in Asia. Previous Asian editions were held in China (1985), Japan (1993), South Korea (2007), the UAE (2013), India (2017), and Indonesia (2023).Thirteen Arab nations have reached the finals throughout the tournament’s history: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, Oman, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Algeria, Sudan, and the UAE.Arab teams from Asia have delivered standout performances, including four major successes. Saudi Arabia won the title in 1989 in Scotland, while Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain each reached the semi-finals once.The Qatari national team, winners of the 1990 AFC U-17 Championship, has qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup seven times, with its last appearance in 2005. The team now returns for its eighth appearance on home soil, opening the tournament against Italy this Monday at Aspire Zone’s Pitch 7.Qatar participated in the inaugural edition alongside Saudi Arabia, with its best performance coming in the fourth edition, when it reached the semi-finals and contested third place against Argentina, ultimately losing 4–1 on penalties.While Qatar has appeared in the finals more often than any other Arab nation, the greatest achievement for Arab teams came in 1989 when Saudi Arabia captured the FIFA U-17 World Cup title. After edging Bahrain 1–0 in the semi-finals, Saudi Arabia triumphed over hosts Scotland in a dramatic final, winning 5–4 on penalties following a 2–2 draw in regular time. This historic victory made Saudi Arabia the first Arab and Asian team to win a FIFA-organized tournament.Saudi Arabia advanced from the group stage with four points, drawing twice (2–2 vs. Portugal and Guinea) and defeating Colombia 1–0. The team then overcame Nigeria in the quarter-finals on penalties after a goalless draw.Bahrain finished fourth after losing the third-place match to Portugal 3–0. The Bahraini national team topped its group with five points from two wins against Cuba (3–0) and Ghana (1–0), and a draw against Scotland (1–1). Bahrain also achieved a historic quarter-final victory over Brazil, winning 4–1 on penalties after a goalless draw, before falling to Saudi Arabia 1–0 in the semi-finals.Oman also had a remarkable run in the 1995 edition hosted by Ecuador, finishing fourth after losing the third-place match to Argentina 2–0.In total, Arab teams have played 112 matches across previous editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, recording 35 wins, 25 draws, and 52 losses. They have collectively scored 137 goals. In the 2009 edition hosted by Nigeria, Algeria was the only Arab team that failed to score, exiting after three defeats.Tunisia has won six matches and lost five in its three appearances at the FIFA U-17 World Cup finals, reaching the Round of 16 twice and exiting in the group stage once.The 20th edition of the tournament, FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, will feature six Arab teams: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt.According to the draw, hosts Qatar — fourth-place finishers in the 1991 edition — are in Group A alongside Italy, South Africa, and Bolivia. Morocco, quarter-finalists in 2023 in Indonesia, are in Group B with Japan, New Caledonia, and Portugal. The UAE, whose best achievement was reaching the Round of 16 in 2009 in Nigeria, will compete in Group C with Senegal, Croatia, and Costa Rica.Tunisia joins Group D along with Argentina, Belgium, and Fiji. Egypt, hosts in 1997 and quarter-finalists in their last appearance, are in Group E with England, Venezuela, and Haiti. Saudi Arabia, champions in 1989, are placed in Group L with Mali, New Zealand, and Austria.The teams participating in the FIFA U-17 World Cup will play 104 matches over 25 days at eight stadiums within Aspire Zone, with the final taking place at Khalifa International Stadium.This edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, hosted by Qatar, marks the first time the tournament will feature 48 teams. They are divided into 12 groups of four, with the top two teams from each group — along with the eight best third-placed teams — advancing to the Round of 32.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 is the first of five consecutive editions scheduled to be held in Qatar.

The 25th Congress of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) concluded Friday in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.The three-day congress saw the participation of a delegation from Qatar, headed by HE President of the State Audit Bureau Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Ahmed al-Emadi.The "Sharm El Sheikh Declaration," issued at the conclusion of the Congress, emphasized the importance of strengthening the independence of supreme audit institutions, adopting artificial intelligence technologies in auditing, and expanding international cooperation to achieve more efficient and sustainable governance.The Congress is held every three years under the auspices of INTOSAI, with the participation of heads and representatives of supreme audit institutions from around the world and relevant regional and international organizations. Its aim is to discuss ways to enhance co-operation and exchange experiences among leaders of the international audit community, and to support efforts toward transparency, integrity, and the protection of public funds.

With just one month to go until the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has unveiled new details of its reimagined Fan Zone and the daily on-site entertainment program, marking another milestone in the countdown to one of the most anticipated weekends in Qatar’s sporting calendar.From November 28 to 30, LIC will welcome fans for a weekend that blends world class racing, family entertainment, culture, and innovation, creating a festival atmosphere that celebrates both Qatar’s spirit and the thrill of Formula 1.A Weekend of Racing and EntertainmentThe 2025 edition promises non-stop on track action with the Formula 1 Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2 Championship, and Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East. Off the track, the excitement continues with performances by global icons like Seal on Family Friday and Metallica headlining Race Day Sunday.A Reimagined Fan Zone ExperienceAt the heart of the event, the Fan Zone will feature a dynamic lineup of experiences designed to delight visitors of all ages. From immersive activities to educational installations and family entertainment, every corner of the Fan Zone offers something new to discover.Highlights includeLEGO “Build The Thrill” Experience: Making its Middle East debut, LEGO brings its celebrated Formula 1 activation to Qatar as part of the Project Alicia global tour. Fans can build their own mini LEGO F1 cars, explore a LEGO themed pitlane and garage, and take home their creation in exclusive Qatar Grand Prix packaging.F1 Fan Forum: Fans can also look forward to the F1 Fan Forum, taking place on Friday and Saturday, where they can interact directly with drivers, ask questions, and hear exclusive insights.Kart Arena: A high adrenaline electric karting experience inspired by the Lusail International Circuit layout, where guests can race through a custom designed track.Genius Dome: An interactive zone combining science and motorsport, where visitors can explore aerodynamics, engineering, and race strategy through hands-on challenges.AR Car Racing & Racing Container: Interactive simulators and augmented reality experiences that let fans take the wheel and capture their moment on the podium at the F1 Photo Booth.Arcade Zone: Featuring racing simulators, PlayStation consoles, and reflex challenges for competitive fun.Cultural Area: A celebration of Qatari heritage with traditional crafts and performances. Across three tents, visitors can experience Arabic coffee, henna art, calligraphy, dama games, and rotating cultural demonstrations including dhow crafts, Sadu weaving, pearls, and spice displays.Kids Corner: Creative and eco friendly activities for younger visitors, including sand art bottling, recycled art, floor painting, face painting, and wind powered car making.Recycled art mural & oversized words: Guests can contribute to large-scale collaborative artworks using recycled materials, and share their messages on oversized word installations across the Fan Zone.Family Friday and Sprint SaturdayFriday, 28 November offers a full day of fun for all ages, featuring the LEGO® activation, children’s zones, and Seal’s live performance in the evening. General Admission ticket holders can bring up to four children under 12 for free, making it the perfect family day out.Saturday, 29 November showcases high speed competition with the Formula 1® Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2, and Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, alongside continued entertainment and fan activities across the venue.Sunday, 30 November culminates in the highly anticipated FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2025 and a powerful closing concert by Metallica, promising an unforgettable finale to the weekend.Tickets Still AvailableWith record demand this year, tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 are selling fast. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets from the limited remaining three-day Grandstand passes, hospitality packages, and single day tickets for Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased via Lusail International Circuit’s website at tickets.lcsc.qa.

The National Archives of Qatar is taking part in the International Council on Archives (ICA) Congress in Barcelona, led by Dr Ahmed bin Abdullah al-Buainain, Secretary-General of the Archives. The two-day conference gathers national archival institutions, specialists, and experts from around the world to discuss the future of document preservation and digital archiving. The delegates approved the ICA’s Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 and held meetings of regional branches, including the Arab Regional Branch (ARBICA), aimed at strengthening Arab co-operation in safeguarding collective memory. Dr al-Buainain highlighted Qatar’s commitment to advancing digital archiving and using artificial intelligence to manage information and protect national memory. He said that documents “are not merely records of the past but foundations for the future”, underscoring the role of archives in shaping identity, research, and decision-making. The conference focuses on five key themes: records management and transparency, AI in archiving, digital preservation and access, cultural heritage in crises, and capacity building for new archivists. Founded in 1948 under Unesco, the ICA unites more than 140 countries to promote international standards, collaboration, and innovation in the field of archives and document management.

Qatar is experiencing an unprecedented wave of cultural, economic, and sports activities in November, as Doha prepares to host a series of international conferences, exhibitions, festivals, and championships, highlighting its position as a regional hub for innovation, sustainability, and excellence.From Sustainability Week to the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, Doha Film Festival, and Qatar International Exhibition For Travel and Tourism, the events cover sectors such as sports, economy, health, education, and culture, reflecting Qatar's vision of promoting international dialogue and supporting sustainable development.Nov 1-7: Qatar Sustainability Week led by Earthna, 10th edition of Qatar Sustainability Week will highlight sustainability efforts.Nov 3-27: FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 Qatar is set to host its third global tournament under the supervision of FIFA, after it has been awarded the hosting rights for the FIFA U-17 World Cup November 4-8: KIDS EXPO 2025 Under the theme "Our Children are the Greatest Treasure," the second edition of the Expo will be held to raise awareness about children's rights.Nov 5-8: Qatar Boat Show 2025 Held at the Old Doha Port, the second edition of Qatar Boat Show 2025 will combine heritage, luxury, and innovation in yachting.Novr 11-13: Qatar Medicare 2025 Qatar Medicare stands as Qatar's first International Healthcare and Medical Trade Exhibition and Conference, convening an extensive network of healthcare stakeholders.Nov 17-19: Rowad 2025 Conference Under the theme "Beyond Boundaries: Scaling, Sustaining, and Succeeding," Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference 2025 is considered the most influential event in the State of Qatar's entrepreneurship sector. This year's edition will focus on the requirements for international growth and expansion beyond local markets.Nov 20-22: 17th Gulf Heart Association Conference The conference will cover numerous topics of advanced and general cardiology. It aims to bring together leading experts, researchers, and healthcare professionals to share knowledge and research on all aspects of heart disease prevention, diagnosis, and management.Nov 20-23: 5th Qatar Taekwondo Open Championships The Championship will bring together international athletes.Nov 20-28: Doha Film Festival Doha Film Festival upports talent, promots cultural dialogue, and showcases innovative visions.Nov 24-25: 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) The 12th edition of the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12) centers around the theme "Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education." WISE 12 aims to deepen discussions on the purpose of education and its pivotal role in serving humanity.Nov 24-26: Qatar International Exhibition For Travel and Tourism 2025 (QTM 2025) QTM 2025 is a prominent platform in the field of travel and tourism, bringing together leading global destinations to showcase the latest trends in sports tourism, conferences and exhibitions tourism, business and cultural tourism, and leisure tourism.Nov 25-26: MWC Doha 2025 MWC25 Doha is the first-ever edition of the GSMA's MWC Series to be held in the Middle East and North Africa. The event marks a key milestone in positioning Qatar as a regional hub for digital innovation and transformation.The conference will explore three key themes: AI Nexus, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence in powering innovation; Intelligent Economies, centered on secure digital infrastructure and next-generation networks; and Connected Industries, highlighting the growing impact of emerging technologies on daily life and economic systems.Nov 27-29: 6th International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC Qatar 2025) The Conference brings together specialists, policymakers, and researchers to exchange knowledge and best practices in the field of primary health care.Nov 28-30: 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship It is one of the season's most anticipated races.This vibrant calendar underscores the State of Qatar's commitment to solidifying its position on the global events map, attracting international expertise, and affirming its leadership in building a future driven by innovation and knowledge.

Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), Education Above All (EAA), and King's Trust International (KTI) have signed an agreement to tackle global youth unemployment and empower young people worldwide, with the aim of reaching over 51,000 youth.In a statement, QFFD said that the signing ceremony, held on the sidelines of King's Trust International's 10th anniversary celebrations in London, and was signed by Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, Mohammed Saad al-Kubaisi, Chief Executive Officer of Education Above All Foundation and Will Straw, Chief Executive Officer of King's Trust International.This partnership, with QFFD as a principal benefactor, will advance KTI's Generation Potential campaign and expand the reach of programmes across Pakistan, Jordan, Nigeria, Ghana and the Caribbean, focusing on promoting youth empowerment, economic inclusion, and gender equality.These efforts aim to equip the next generation with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in an increasingly complex job market, while placing a particular emphasis on youth in fragile and underserved communities, especially young women and marginalised groups, empowering them to play an active role in driving sustainable development and building resilient, inclusive societies.Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti, Director General of QFFD, stated: "At the heart of our mission at QFFD lies a deep belief in the potential of young people to shape a better and more sustainable future for all. Through this partnership, we are investing in youth as catalysts of development, equipping them with the tools and opportunities to lead positive change within their communities. Empowering youth is an investment in peace, prosperity, and shared humanity, and together we are reaffirming our collective commitment to ensure that no young person is left behind."Mohammed al-Kubaisi, CEO of EAA Foundation, said: "At Education Above All Foundation, we believe that empowering youth with the skills and knowledge to navigate the green economy is fundamental to achieving sustainable development. With the support of our strategic partner, Qatar Fund for Development, and through our collaboration with The King's Trust International, we are creating opportunities that not only transform individual lives but also drive collective action toward a more equitable and resilient world."Will Straw, Chief Executive of King's Trust International, added: "We are deeply grateful to Qatar Fund for Development for their visionary support. This partnership enables us to reach more young people than ever before, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support they need to shape their own futures. Young people today face enormous challenges, from economic instability to the climate crisis. But they also represent our greatest hope. Through this partnership with QFFD, we are not only investing in their potential but are amplifying their voices, unlocking their talents, and standing alongside them as they build a better future for us all."This partnership reflects the enduring bilateral relations and shared vision between Qatar and the United Kingdom, united in their commitment to advancing human development, fostering social inclusion, and expanding economic opportunity, thereby contributing to a more equitable and sustainable global future.

The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (Dimdex 2026) has signed a co-operation agreement with Barzan Holdings, under which the company will serve as the Strategic Partner and Gold Sponsor of the prestigious event for the fourth consecutive edition. Held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces, the ninth edition of Dimdex will take place from Jan 19-22, 2026, at the Qatar National Convention Centre. The event will be held under the theme: "A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow." The enduring partnership between Dimdex and Barzan Holdings underscores the commitment of national entities to supporting major events hosted by Qatar. It further reflects the notable advancement of the country's defence industries, while providing Barzan Holdings with a unique platform to present its innovations to global markets and to engage with the wealth of expertise the event attracts. The signing ceremony was held at the Qatar Ministry of Defence in the presence of HE Chief of Staff of Qatar Armed Forces Lt. Gen. (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed al-Mannai and Chief Investment Officer at Barzan Holdings Mohammed Ahmad al-Mulla. The agreement was officiated by Chairman of the Dimdex Organising Committee Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh al-Ansari and Chief Commercial Officer at Barzan Holdings Omar Fahad al-Qadi. In this regard, al-Mannai said: "The Qatari Armed Forces takes great pride in organising and hosting the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference, which serves as a platform that reflects our commitment to excellence in the military field. Our partnerships with national bodies and institutions play a vital role in the success of this event and in enhancing its international impact. By combining expertise, innovation, and strategic vision, we work together to strengthen Qatar's position across various security and defense sectors, and to build partnerships that contribute to fostering security and achieving sustainable development." For his part, al-Ansari said: "Our longstanding partnership with Barzan Holdings represents a cornerstone in delivering another exceptional edition of Dimdex. The company's pivotal role in advancing the defence industry and introducing cutting-edge technologies to the State of Qatar is fully aligned with our aspirations to build a future defined by sustainable security for generations to come. Dimdex continues to serve as a premier platform for showcasing these innovations, fostering dialogue between government decision makers, industry leaders and exhibitors, and enabling the establishment of strategic partnerships that shape the future of defence and security regionally and globally." Group Chief Executive Officer of Barzan Holdings Eng. Mohammed bin Bader al-Sadah said: "As long-time partners of Dimdex, Barzan Holdings is proud to return as a Strategic Partner and Gold Sponsor for the 2026 edition. Over the years, our collaboration has been central to advancing Qatar's defence and maritime security goals. One of our main objectives in this edition is to showcase our capabilities, products and services to the international market, and Dimdex provides us with a strategic avenue to achieve that. Dimdex remains a vital platform for us to connect with industry leaders, showcase our latest technologies, and explore new partnerships that drive innovation and contribute to regional security. Together, we are shaping a safer and more secure future through collaboration, technology, and shared expertise." The Barzan Holdings pavilion at Dimdex 2026 is anticipated to be a focal point of interest for visitors, where the company will present its most recent achievements and contributions to the maritime defence sector. As a national leader in the defence and security sector, Barzan Holdings serves as a key gateway for defence industry trade in Qatar. The company actively fosters global co-operation and influential partnerships aimed at advancing knowledge-sharing and investment in innovative defence technologies, thereby consolidating Qatar's position at the forefront of opportunities in the current and future defence markets. Dimdex reaffirms Qatar's commitment to providing a world-class platform to showcase advanced defence innovations, strengthen long-term partnerships, and create new business opportunities. The event further contributes to supporting local economic growth by attracting thousands of participants and visitors in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. (QNA)

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has been confirmed as the official host circuit for the inaugural edition of CIRCUIT – The Global Race Track Summit & Awards, set to take place from February 16-18, 2026 in Doha. As one of the world’s most advanced and architecturally striking motorsport venues, Lusail Circuit provides the ideal stage for an event dedicated to the future of global motorsport infrastructure. The summit will unite circuit promoters, designers, architects, engineers, investors, and operators from around the world, all driven by a shared mission: to shape the next evolution of motorsport venues. CIRCUIT serves as a global platform for these professionals to network, exchange ideas, and celebrate excellence in race track design, operations, and innovation. Supported by former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard and his global events company, Whisper Group, CIRCUIT will deliver a world-class production experience, combining storytelling, insight, and spectacle in equal measure. Over three days, the event will feature networking sessions, a global conference, and an investment forum, culminating in the Global Race Track Awards, which will celebrate excellence in design, operations, innovation, and guest experience across every level of motorsport venue worldwide. The announcement reinforces Qatar’s growing leadership in international motorsport and reflects LIC’s continued commitment to driving global collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the industry. Abdulaziz Ali al-Mohannadi, CEO of Lusail International Circuit, said: “LIC has always been more than a venue, it is a symbol of Qatar’s vision for the future of motorsport. We are honoured to welcome the world’s leading circuit professionals and to play a central role in defining the next generation of race track development.” Chris James, Founder & CEO of CIRCUIT, added: “CIRCUIT exists to bring together the global motorsport venue community, the people who design, build, and run the places where the world comes to race. Lusail International Circuit is the perfect home for that story, a symbol of progress, precision, and the ideal partner as we shape the next evolution of motorsport venues. I wish to thank the President Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif al-Mannai and the CEO Abdulaziz Ali al-Mohannadi of Lusail International Circuit for their vision, belief, and commitment to helping bring this global gathering to life.”

Kuwait has called for adherence to international law and the principles of human rights as the only way to maintain international peace and security. This came in a statement delivered by the Diplomatic Attache of Kuwait's Permanent Mission to the UN, Abeer Al Methen, before the third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) of the UN General Assembly, during discussions on item (71) regarding the promotion and protection of human rights, as part of the 80th session of the General Assembly.She said that the world stands at a critical crossroads amid growing violations and declining respect for international conventions, noting that recent UN reports underscore the urgent need to strengthen global solidarity in confronting humanitarian crises, achieving sustainable development, and promoting just and lasting peace, according to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).Al Methen added that Kuwait continues to play a leading role in humanitarian work through relief and development initiatives that have reached numerous affected countries, pointing to the dispatch of 19 humanitarian air bridges to Palestine, a reflection of Kuwait's steadfast foreign policy based on supporting afflicted peoples and alleviating their suffering.She welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, expressing Kuwait's hope that it will serve as a step toward ending the long-standing humanitarian suffering. She reiterated that a just and lasting solution lies in the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international legitimacy and the Arab Peace Initiative.Furthermore, she underscored the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Lebanon and the occupied Syrian Golan, reaffirming Kuwait's firm stance rejecting any measures that violate international law or undermine regional peace and security.