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The Ministry of Culture has announced the opening of nominations for the Doha International Book Fair Award, from Jan. 17 to 1 March.The award aimes to shed light on the role played by the Doha International Book Fair in fostering the publishing industry at both local and international levels. It also aims to encourage publishing houses to place greater emphasis on knowledge-based content, cultural diversity, and high standards of artistic and technical production, while also motivating authors to pursue further creativity across various fields of knowledge. In addition, the award is designed to support young authors and to foster a spirit of competition, dialogue, and exchange among them.The terms and criteria for nomination across the various categories require publishing houses and authors to comply with intellectual property laws and to submit their publications in digital format through the award's official website. Submissions must demonstrate excellence in artistic production and reflect diversity in cultural, literary, and scientific content, in accordance with the approved regulations for each category.The award comprises eight categories. The first category, the Qatar Publishing Excellence Award, is open to applicants who hold a valid Qatari publishing license and are members of the Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum. A recent letter confirming membership and compliance with intellectual property laws is required. The publisher must have released no fewer than twenty new and diverse titles during the 2025-2026 nomination year. A list of participating Arabic-language, non-translated books, including International Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs), must be submitted, and recent publications must be uploaded to the award website in PDF format. Applicants are also required to present a clear vision for the development of the publishing industry, with publications distinguished by high-quality artistic production and diverse cultural, literary, and scientific content. The prize value for this category is QAR 30,000.The second category, the International Publishing Excellence Award, requires applicants to hold a valid publishing license in their country and to be members of their national publishers' association or the Arab Publishers Association. A recent letter from the relevant publishers' union confirming membership and compliance with intellectual property laws must be provided. The publisher must have released at least thirty new and diverse titles during the 2025-2026 nomination year. A list of Arabic-language, non-translated books with ISBNs must be submitted, and the publications must be uploaded in PDF format to the award website. Applicants must demonstrate a clear vision for advancing the publishing industry, and the submitted works must be distinguished by excellence in artistic production and diversity of cultural, literary, and scientific content. The prize value is QAR 30,000.The third category, the Distinguished Qatari Publisher for Children's Books Award, is dedicated to Qatari publishers specializing in children's and young adult literature. Applicants must hold a Qatari publishing license and be members of the Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum, supported by a recent letter confirming membership and compliance with intellectual property laws. The publisher must have released at least five new Arabic-language titles in children's and young adult literature during the 2025-2026 nomination year. Submissions must be uploaded in PDF format via the award website, along with a list of participating Arabic-language, non-translated titles including ISBNs. The publications must demonstrate excellence in artistic production and diversity of cultural, literary, and scientific content. The prize value is QAR 30,000.The fourth category, the Distinguished International Publisher for Children's Books Award, is open to international publishers specializing in children's and young adult literature. Applicants must hold a valid publishing license in their country and be members of their national publishers' association or the Arab Publishers Association, with a recent letter confirming membership and compliance with intellectual property laws. The publisher must have released at least ten new Arabic-language titles in children's and young adult literature during the 2025-2026 nomination year. The publications must be submitted in PDF format, accompanied by a list of Arabic-language, non-translated titles including ISBNs, and must demonstrate excellence in artistic production and diversity of cultural, literary, and scientific content. The prize value is QAR 30,000.The fifth category, the Distinguished Publisher for Translation Award, recognizes excellence in translation. Applicants must hold a Qatari publishing license and be members of the Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum. The translated works must be produced by the Qatari publishing house and reflect its output of translations from Arabic into other languages across all categories and subject areas over a three-year period. The submitted works must demonstrate high standards of artistic production and a rich diversity of cultural, literary, and scientific content. The prize value is QAR 30,000.The sixth category, the Creative Writer Award, is open to authors who submit the publisher's consent for participation, along with the author's curriculum vitae and a synopsis of the submitted book. Each author may participate with one individually authored book only, written in Arabic and not previously translated. The total word count must be no fewer than 20,000 words for Qatari authors and 25,000 words for international authors. The book must be uploaded in PDF format to the award website, accompanied by copies of personal identification and passport documents, with full compliance with intellectual property laws. The author must be alive at the time of nomination. The prize value is QAR 20,000.The seventh category, the Creative Young Qatari Writer Award, is limited to young Qatari authors. Applicants must submit a curriculum vitae, a synopsis of the book, and the publisher's consent for participation. Each author may submit one individually authored, Arabic-language, non-translated book with a minimum of 20,000 words. The book must be uploaded in PDF format to the award website, along with copies of personal identification or passport documents, and compliance with intellectual property rights is required. The author must be alive at the time of nomination. The prize value is QAR 20,000.The eighth and final category, the Best Pavilion Award at the 35th Doha International Book Fair, honors the pavilion distinguished by its unique design and its ability to offer a comprehensive and immersive cultural experience. The prize value for this category is QAR 40,000. 

Qatar Insurance has been named ‘Best General Insurance Company in Qatar’ at the World Finance Awards 2025.The recognition highlights Qatar Insurance’s contributions to the development of the national insurance landscape by providing solutions that effectively respond to the evolving needs of individuals in Qatar, empowering everyone to live with peace of mind.Winning the accolade for the third consecutive year also reflects Qatar Insurance’s ability to cement its leadership position, being a symbol of digital innovation, service excellence, and strong financial performance at both local and regional levels.Salem al-Mannai, Group CEO of Qatar Insurance, said: “We are proud to be recognised once again as Qatar’s Best General Insurance Company, which reaffirms the uniqueness of our vision and the success of our strategy.“This has been a year of innovation par excellence for us at Qatar Insurance, during which we launched several market-first solutions, including Qatar’s first Personal Cyber Insurance and School Fees Insurance.”He said: “These products were a unique addition to our personal lines portfolio and have allowed everyone in the country to benefit, for the first time, from solid financial protections that cover many aspects of their lives, from domestic living to education and online transactions.”Al-Mannai added: “This year, we achieved a major breakthrough in digital services, becoming the only insurer to offer customers seamless access to both insurance and non-insurance services through a single platform, the QIC App.“Thanks to our ongoing investments in enhancing and expanding the app, our customers can now effortlessly address a wide range of daily needs, from all types of insurance to vehicle care, car buying and selling, events, and loyalty rewards, without any need to switch between multiple platforms.”The World Finance Awards are among the most prestigious programmes in the global financial industry. Each year, the programme honours institutions and leaders who are reshaping the financial landscape and driving innovation across sectors, including banking, insurance, investment management, and wealth management. 

Al Jazeera 360's film 'The Last Doctor' has won the Best Short Documentary Award at the Swedish Film Awards, marking another achievement for the platform and reflecting the quality of Arabic documentary content and its ability to compete internationally.The film tells the story of Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safieh, who has dedicated his life to providing medical care to the residents of the Gaza Strip, defying the ongoing bombardment and war since 2023.It takes viewers on a moving journey that chronicles the doctor's suffering and his determination to save lives and restore hope despite immense challenges, celebrating the values of sacrifice and resilience, and highlighting the unsung heroes who serve their communities without expecting anything in return.The 45-minute film documents Dr Abu Safieh and his medical team's journey over 16 consecutive months of work in difficult and dangerous conditions, amid repeated attempts by Israeli occupation forces to evacuate and destroy the hospital. Despite holding a foreign passport that would have allowed him safe passage, he chose to remain at the targeted hospital to serve his people until his arrest in December 2024.In poignant documentary style, The Last Doctor portrays Dr Hussam Abu Safieh as an icon and symbol of human dignity and peaceful resistance, highlighting his steadfastness and sacrifices in serving his community during the brutal war in Gaza.According to his lawyer, Dr Abu Safieh was beaten during his detention in the notorious Ofer prison, and human rights reports indicate that he lost half his body weight due to starvation and mistreatment. The film emphasises his determination to keep the hospital operational to provide vital healthcare to over 450,000 Palestinians in northern Gaza. It also shed light on the immense sacrifices he and his team made, including the martyrdom of most of the medical staff, the assassination of his son, Ibrahim, the injury of his son, Idris, and the destruction of his family home. 

French football giants and European champions Paris Saint-Germain picked up seven awards at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai Globe Soccer Awards held at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, UAE, Sunday. The awards included PSG Best Club; Best Player Ousmane Dembele, Best Midfielder Vitinha, Emerging Player Désiré Doué, Best Coach Luis Enrique, Best President Nasser al-Khelaïfi, and Best Sporting Director Luis Campos.(@PSG_English) 

Qatar Foundation's (QF) BilAraby initiative, in partnership with BLJ Worldwide, a leading strategic communications and public relations firm, secured the Gold Award for Best Use of the Arabic Language in a Media Campaign at the MEPRA Awards 2025.BilAraby’s award recognises the initiative’s successful media campaigns and strategic planning, and its impact regionally and globally, following its launch in 2024 as a platform for inspiring ideas and solutions in Arabic that reflects QF's commitment to promoting and perpetuating the language.Hisham Nourin, executive director, Strategic Initiatives and Programmes at QF, said: “This recognition highlights that focusing on contemporary Arabic content was a timely and strategic move, showing that our communities are able to engage with the modern era and partake in discussions on innovation and culture in their own language.“The award highlights how genuine Arabic storytelling can emotionally connect with both regional and global audiences, creating meaningful and impactful relationships.”BilAraby stood out as an initiative dedicated to enriching Arabic digital content and fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge exchange across the Arab world. Its strategic media campaigns are distinguished by their creative use of Arabic and storytelling with contemporary, high-quality content. These campaigns aim to fill gaps in Arabic digital content, including bridging the gap between Arabic and other languages, while addressing key topics such as artificial intelligence, innovation, positive societal change, and the role of women in science. They offer inspiring Arabic examples that resonate with young people's aspirations. The judging panel awarded the prize based on strict criteria related to effective language use in communication, a standard that BilAraby’s campaigns exemplify through their modern content.BilAraby’s media campaigns have translated this strategic approach into exceptional real-world impact. Between January and May 2025, campaign content reached over 421.9mn people across traditional and digital channels, generating broad engagement across multiple countries. The content achieved a significant surge in digital interaction, with 13.3mn views for documentary-style content, demonstrating the strength of contemporary Arabic media. 

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

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.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) Honorary Chair, attended the seventh annual FTA Prize Awards Ceremony held yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar. The event was hosted by FTA’s Co-Chairs HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and Tania Fares, who welcomed a number of world renowned fashion industry pioneers and young creatives. Her Highness awarded the prize to the first winner of the night Saudi designer Ziyad Albuainain for the Evening Wear category. Other winners for the 2025 FTA Awards include: Youssef Drissi from Morocco in the Ready-To-Wear category, Leila Roukni from Morocco in the Accessories category, while Egyptian designer Farah Radwan won the Jewelry category. The Debut Talent category was awarded to Alaa Alaradi from Bahrain and Fatema and Dalal Alkhaja also from Bahrain won the Fashion Tech category. The Guest Country Award, which this year was represented by India, was awarded to Kartik Kumra. Two globally renowned figures who have made a significant impact on the fashion industry were awarded honorary awards during the ceremony. The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Miuccia Prada in recognition of her decades-long legacy and influential contributions to shaping contemporary fashion. Meanwhile, the Trailblazer Award was presented to designer Zuhair Murad in celebration of his pioneering role in bringing Arab haute couture to the world stage and continuing to inspire generations of designers. Fashion Trust Arabia is the first initiative of its kind in the region, offering critical opportunities through funding grants and high-level professional mentorship to empower regional designers and prepare them to succeed on the global stage.

University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated its outstanding students in a prestigious annual academic awards ceremony, honouring 50 students across eight majors.These majors included Academic Excellence Awards, Academic Merit, Academic Distinction, Foundation Program, Industrial Trades Dean Award, Achievement Award, Applied Research Award, and Innovation Award.UDST President Dr Salem bin Nasser al-Naemi affirmed that the celebration embodies the boundless potential that education can achieve and reflects UDST's shared belief that excellence is a way of life.Every award UDST presents today tells a story of determination, passion, and purpose-values that define its community. Its role as academics is to nurture these capabilities and guide students to become innovators and change‑makers, contributing to the nation's renaissance and progress on the global stage, Dr al-Naemi underlined.Noteworthy, all recipients of the Academic Excellence and Academic Merit awards received financial rewards, alongside an official certificate from UDST recognising this exceptional achievement in their academic records.Dr al-Naemi further indicated that the annual awards ceremony underlines UDST's commitment to fostering an environment that spurs academic excellence and innovation, making this yearly event a powerful source of inspiration and recognition for the extraordinary accomplishments in the community.He emphasized that the purpose of this annual celebration is to help build an academic, research-driven, and home-like environment that consistently supports students, promoting their excellence and distinction.Academic excellence is not the only criterion for recognition, there are other urgent and impactful standards based on evaluations and engagement in events at the college, university, and national level-standards that bolster UDST's educational ecosystem and prepare students holistically in both academic and research dimensions, he outlined.Dr al-Naemi highlighted that the honoured students have not only excelled at UDST or in Qatar but have also won prestigious international awards in academic and research arenas.He elucidated some of UDST's scientific programs in academics, health, and innovation, stressing that true innovation only arises through research, and that is how students are being trained to maintain the required balance in their lives and sustain their ongoing excellence.Through the UDST-championed innovation and research, students have founded seven commercial companies, aligning with the nation's developmental plans and its National Vision 2030, Dr al-Naemi elaborated.Dr al-Naemi further noted that earlier, UDST launched its innovative business incubator, "UHUB", to support the university community on its journey to transform exceptional ideas into tangible projects.

Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser al-Khelaifi has been named Best President of the Year at the 2025 Golden Boy Awards held in Italy on Tuesday. The awards saw PSG’s Désiré Doué win the 2025 Golden Boy Award after an outstanding season.The annual awards, organised by Italian newspaper Tuttosport since 2003, recognise excellence across European football and are voted for by a panel of 50 sports journalists from across the continent.PSG’s achievements during the 2024/25 season were a major factor in the recognition. Under al-Khelaïfi’s leadership, the club completed a quadruple that included the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.Doué, the 20-year-old forward, scored 16 goals and provided 16 assists in 61 appearances, including two goals in PSG’s Champions League final win over Inter Milan.The club’s sporting advisor, Luis Campos, was also named Best Executive for his role in shaping PSG’s football strategy and building a balanced and competitive squad.