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Thursday, February 12, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "2025" (303 articles)

Gulf Times
Qatar

Ministry of Sports concludes its Summer 2025 activities with participation of 43,000 people

Ministry of Sports and Youth concluded its 2025 summer activities with wide participation exceeding 43,000 participants, through more than 750 sports and youth events organized across various regions of the country.The Ministry confirmed in a statement that the success of these activities was due to the combined efforts of partners from various governmental and private sectors, notably the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Municipality, Ministry of Social Development and Family, Qatar Sports for All Federation, National Cyber Security Agency, Education City, Qatar Museums, alongside numerous sports clubs, media channels, and other entities.The ministry emphasized the continuation of its community and youth programs throughout the year to reinforce the role of sports in society, supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 in building a conscious and active generation. In this context, the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior, launched several summer programmes and activities to raise awareness and develop skills among youth. The most prominent of these was the awareness programme 'Aware Generation' which benefited 1,163 young men and women across 28 centers and youth organizations under the supervision of five trainers. Additionally, the Hina Salma Farm saw the participation of 4,686 young men and women from youth and girls’ centers, with an average daily participation of 158 attendees per center.In the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the Qatar Scientific Club and the Qatar Society of Engineers organised the summer program STEM 2025 with the participation of more than 141 students. Meanwhile, the summer data camp, organized in co-operation with the National Planning Council, Qatar Scientific Club, and Microsoft, hosted over 100 students competing in 20 teams to develop skills in analysis and artificial intelligence. Furthermore, 1,800 young men and women participated in events organized by the Programs and Activities Department at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal).The programmes varied between sports, recreational, and awareness activities, including events held at Lusail Sports Arena, Education City Stadium, Al Furjan playgrounds, and races in various public parks. Other specialised programs included 365 Days of Activity, Self-Defence Program, Steps Challenge, as well as dedicated events for youth and girls at youth centers.

Mangusteen CEO Malik Shishtawi at QES 2025. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar

Qatar's MICE future hinges on knowledge sharing, QES 2025 told

The Qatar Events Show (QES) 2025, taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, is redefining the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, moving beyond traditional commercial exchanges to prioritise knowledge sharing and the transfer of expertise.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event, Mangusteen CEO Malik Shishtawi said that valuable content and experience are the cornerstones for creating lasting impact and solidifying Qatar’s position as a global MICE leader.“We wanted to change the perception that event organisers are purely commercial driven entities, especially in the traditional trade show format which often focuses on simply renting out space.“Our focus at QES is on building real, valuable experience through knowledge sharing and transfer, because we firmly believe this is what generates long-term impact,” he pointed out, noting that this commitment to content-rich engagement is linked to QES 2025’s main aim of elevating Qatar’s status as a leading regional hub for the global MICE sector.By fostering innovation, encouraging collaboration, and showcasing cutting-edge solutions, organisers said the show aims to be a catalyst for new partnerships, driving economic growth, tourism, and essential skills development within the nation.Shishtawi highlighted his vision for the show’s long-term impact, stressing the necessity of a dedicated platform for Qatar's event professionals. “Qatar is positioned as a leading events destination, and this was proven by hosting global mega-events, including the FIFA World Cup, which was a huge success not only regionally but globally,” he said, citing the FIFA president’s commendation of the tournament.With a packed calendar of major events like FIBA, the FIFA Arab Cup, Formula 1, and ongoing Olympic bids, among others, he said there is the need for a cohesive industry platform was vital.“As active members in global industry associations representing Qatar, we recognised the need for our own platform here to bring professionals together, share experiences, conduct B2B matchmaking, and get stakeholders on board,” he said.Shishtawi added that the success of QES 2025 is further boosted by the caliber of its speakers, a deliberate effort to attract top-tier global talent. He “You've seen the level of speakers we hosted yesterday," Shishtawi said, highlighting figures such as the EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, the head of Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau, and the SVP of Oak View Group. “This is a big achievement for the events scene in Qatar and showcases the collaborative spirit we aim to foster”.The event, which opened on September 2, has drawn more than 50 innovative exhibitors and over 2,000 delegates. It features multiple zones dedicated to networking, business matching, and critical thought leadership, all contributing to its mission of propelling Qatar’s MICE industry forward through shared knowledge and collaborative innovation.

Ahmed Habib in an interview at the Gulf Times stand at the event. PICTURES: Thajudheen
Qatar

FIFA World Cup 2022’s accessibility legacy highlighted at QES 2025

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022’s success as the most accessible tournament ever, a notable feat given the country’s developing infrastructure, was a key insight shared at the Qatar Events Show 2025, highlighting a commitment to lasting accessibility. Speaking at the Qatar Events Show’s second day at a talk titled ‘Accessibility in Events Design’, Ahmed Habib, a senior media content specialist at the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, noted that true accessibility extends far beyond physical infrastructure, demanding a holistic approach rooted in inclusivity and a deep understanding of diverse needs. “Qatar has done a very good job of building world-class events facilities that are accessible,” Habib said, citing the country’s fortunate starting point with accessible hotels, public spaces, and cultural sites. He pointed out that the foundation of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022’s unparalleled accessibility was the establishment of an Accessibility Forum. Operating under the theme, ‘Nothing about us without us,’ this initiative brought together disabled individuals from the community six years prior to the tournament. Habib said their direct involvement was instrumental in shaping a tournament that was not only accessible in its execution but also actively contributed to making Qatar more accessible for people with disabilities in the long term. “We brought disabled people from the community and we said, ‘Listen, we're going to organise a massive tournament in Qatar, and how do you want the tournament to be accessible? But more importantly, is how can this tournament make Qatar more accessible for you after the tournament is over?’” he said. This collaborative approach, he added, ensured the tournament was “delivered to the highest standards,” driven by innovation and a belief that “football is for all”. Habib underlined key innovations such as the introduction of Audio Descriptive Commentary in the Arabic language, offering blind fans an immersive experience through dedicated commentary accessible via their own devices. He noted that this groundbreaking facility, previously unavailable to Arabic speakers, has now paved the way for similar accessibility features in cultural spaces, events, and theaters. “What’s the point if I come to an event that’s physically accessible, but the staff meet me at the door and say, ‘I don’t know if you can come in because you're in a wheelchair’? Then the event is not accessible because staff and volunteers have not been trained,” he added. Habib stressed the critical need for comprehensive staff and volunteer training, equipping them with the knowledge and cultural understanding to welcome and support individuals with disabilities, whether they are attendees, speakers, or colleagues. “What are you going to do if someone who is deaf shows up at your event? Someone who is blind? At least have some sort of minimum training, recognition, understanding, and build that culture amongst your staff and team,” he urged event planners. Habib emphasised the importance of universal design principles in graphic design, citing high colour contrast, appropriate font choices, and clear hierarchy in signage as beneficial for everyone, not just those with specific visual needs. He illustrated this with an example of signage at Toronto Pearson International Airport, where icons and shapes communicate effectively, allowing non-English or French speakers to navigate with ease. Habib also discussed the distinction between the medical model and the social model of disability, where the former often views disability as an illness requiring supervision and dependence. In contrast, he said the social model suggests that disability is a societal construct, and it is the responsibility of society to create inclusive environments where everyone is equal and can participate fully. “Event planners play an important role,” Habib said, reiterating that they have the power to determine whether guests feel ‘disabled or enabled’”. He added that event planners should never view individuals with disabilities as a “loss or abnormality”, nor should they see them as having “restrictions or lack of ability”. Instead, he said the focus must be on fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of ability, can fulfill their potential and participate without limitation.

Al Arabi players celebrate one of their three goals against Al Wakrah in the QSL Cup at the Al Shamal Stadium Tuesday.
Sport

Al Arabi register 3-1 win over Al Wakrah

Al Arabi opened their 2025-2026 QSL Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Al Wakrah in the first round at Al Shamal Stadium Tuesday while Al Ahli and Al Duhail played out a goalless draw at the Hamad Bin Khalifa Stadium.Al Arabi found the net through U-23 player Salem Reda in the 8th minute, Pablo Sarabia in the 41st, and Marwan Sherif in the 50th minute. Al Wakrah’s lone goal came from substitute Redouane Berkane in the 81st minute.Al Ahli and Al Duhail battled hard but weren’t able to break the deadlock, eventually settling for the stalemate.In the opening half, Al Ahli were a bit more forceful and even had a few chances but were not able to convert any.The second session saw Al Duhail push harder but luck eluded them as in the 54th minute an Adil Boulbina kick went on to hit the crossbar.The match was also marked by some rough tackles with Al Ahli picking up 4 yellow cards and Al Duhail 2.Today, four matches will be played, with Al Khor facing Al Bidda SC and Al Shahania taking on Al Sailiya in simultaneous kick-offs. Al Shamal will meet Umm Salal, while Al Rayyan will face Qatar SC in the day’s later fixtures.

Ibrahim al-Fares speaks to the organisers, ambassadors, and guests at QES 2025 opening Tuesday. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar

'Qatar Events Show 2025 a key platform for tech integration, regional event growth'

The inaugural Qatar Events Show (QES) 2025 is poised to be a pivotal platform for advancing event technology and bolstering the region’s growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, according to an industry expert.Speaking to Gulf Times, Eques Holding president and executive chairman Ibrahim al-Fares underlined QES’ significance as a platform offering direct access to organisers and suppliers, essential for both the event’s success and his company’s core business.Eques Holding, a diversified company managing three subsidiaries, including Lanyardy, a leading provider of custom event identification solutions, is a sponsor of the show.Al-Fares added that participation in the debut show will offer invaluable exposure to a wide spectrum of professionals within the events industry, enabling them to experience Eques Holding’s services firsthand.In an era dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), Al-Fares addressed the potential evolution of traditional event identification methods. While acknowledging AI’s transformative power, he pointed out that physical lanyards and badges will remain indispensable.“As much as AI advances, we still need to identify the person in front of us. AI will not replace this because even with full digitalisation, you still need to understand who the person is by name, company, and position. That visual identification is still important for people,” al-Fares said.He noted that such view has driven Eques Holding’s strategic investments, including the establishment of the first Middle East factory dedicated to lanyards and UV badges. This facility aims to serve not only Qatar but also the broader GCC region.Apart from physical identification, al-Fares noted that they are also actively integrating AI into its technological offerings, particularly within its registration systems.“We have a company that focuses on technology, so we have the registration system, and now we are integrating AI into it. For example, instead of scanning people at the entrance, we will have RFIDs that can do automated checks. This will help event organisers manage their shows by knowing the exact footfall at any given time,” he said.However, al-Fares also stressed the importance of the human element in the events sector, saying: “While AI might reduce the need for human interaction in some areas, you will always need someone to greet you nicely with a smile. You need that human touch; it will never go out of fashion.”Looking at Qatar’s and the region’s role as an events hub, al-Fares expressed optimism, noting that: “Qatar has proven that it can deliver mega-events. Now, the focus is on attracting more events to the country, not just one-off mega-events, but a year-round calendar. I believe the GCC, in general, is booming and is set to become a leading region for events globally, as it has already become a hub for events and mega-events”.He highlighted the current robust activity, noting that “for the latter end of this year, we have almost 150 to 200 events happening within the next four months alone”.Al-Fares attributes Qatar’s advantage as an MICE destination to its well-established infrastructure and efficient logistics, a legacy built from its successful bid for the 2010 World Cup.

Mangusteen CEO Malik Shishtawi, along with industry experts and partners, leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the start of the Qatar Events Show 2025 Tuesday at the DECC. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar

Qatar Events Show 2025 opens with panel on events as economic engines

The Qatar Events Show 2025 kicked off Tuesday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) with a panel discussion, exploring the impact of the events sector on national economic growth and international perception.Titled ‘The Economic Engine: How Events Fuel Local Economies,’ the session highlighted the key role of large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and cultural festivals in fostering economic diversification, particularly for nations seeking to expand beyond traditional industries.Speakers agreed that events are not merely spectacles but significant contributors to a country's economic vitality and global image.Oak View Group SVP Dr Debbie Kristiansen cited job creation as a primary economic benefit derived from the events industry, saying there are a number of things that contribute to economic impact in a destination, including job creation.About economic diversification beyond tourism, DECC CEO Jose Vicente shines a spotlight on how major events create vibrant hubs, attracting new industries and fostering local businesses.He pointed to Qatar’s hosting of significant events like the Web Summit as examples that provide growth opportunities for emerging and local companies. He also emphasised the legacy of large events in creating sustainable job opportunities through recurring exhibitions.Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau director Mubarak Al-Shamisi echoed this view, explaining that various industry sectors within events play a crucial role in creating new opportunities and nurturing creative development to reach new heights.He also cited the Abu Dhabi Financial Week as an example of how key partnerships can benefit companies, particularly within the events industry.About the importance of robust infrastructure in holding events, Mangusteen CEO Malik Shishtawi underscored the significance of a strategic central location, with accessible hotels, efficient public transport like the metro, and proximity to world-class airports. In addition, he said knowledge transfer is also a key driver of opportunity within the events sector.He noted that the GCC region, as a whole, is a hotspot for events, with complementary infrastructures and collaborations enhancing accessibility. This collaborative approach, Shishtawi suggested, facilitates the rotation of events, creating unique, interconnected hubs across destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with potential for similar developments in other GCC countries.Dubai World Trade Centre EVP Mahir Julfar agreed, citing venues, transportation, and infrastructure as vital elements, and lauded the GCC for its flexibility in accommodating diverse international attendees.He also shared Dubai’s success story, illustrating how collaborative efforts create a larger ecosystem that amplifies the impact of events.Dr Kristiansen stressed the relevance of maximising event utilization and the critical role of security, lauding the Middle East for its safety. She also pointed to the strategic use of hybrid events to broaden audience reach, generating interest for in-person attendance at future events.She said people development was another critical aspect, highlighting the value of nurturing individuals with the right attitude and supporting their growth within the hospitality industry, identifying the development of future leaders as paramount.

Gulf Times
Qatar

DAAM signs pact with Katara to sponsor 'S'hail 2025'

The Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM) has signed a funding agreement with the Katara Cultural Village Foundation to sponsor the ninth edition of the Katara International Hunting and Falconry Exhibition "S'hail 2025."This marks the eighth consecutive year of the partnership, underscoring the vital role of the fund and companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange in supporting cultural and community activities. This aligns with the broader goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.The exhibition is scheduled to take place from September 10 to 14, with the participation of 260 companies from 21 countries. Exhibitors will showcase a diverse range of products, including the latest innovations in hunting vehicle outfitting, hunting weapons, safari gear, and specialized falconry equipment.DAAM's consistent support for the exhibition since its second edition has been a cornerstone of its success. The event has grown beyond its local scope to become one of the most prominent cultural and heritage events in the region, serving as a leading platform for preserving the heritage of falconry on the global stage.Since its establishment in 2010, the DAAM Fund has launched numerous vital projects and initiatives across cultural, social, sports, and charitable sectors. Contributions from public shareholding companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange are a primary source of the fund's financial resources, making them essential partners in achieving community development.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Media City Qatar strategic partner for Innovation by Design Summit 2025

Media City Qatar has joined as a strategic partner for the Innovation by Design Summit 2025, powered by Doha Design District, Msheireb Properties has announced.The summit, presented by Msheireb Properties in collaboration with Fast Company Middle East, returns to Doha on September 24 following its 2024 debut.It will bring together regional and international experts to discuss how design intersects with business and innovation.Themed ‘Inspiring the Future of Design,’, the event will take place at the Mandarin Oriental Doha in Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) and feature 15 panel discussions and sessions on topics such as artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, product innovation, immersive media, sustainable architecture, and the future of the creator economy.Msheireb Properties CEO engineer Ali al-Kuwari said: “MDD exemplifies how design harmonises heritage, sustainability, and community. As a hub for institutions like Media City Qatar, we’ve witnessed firsthand how intentional design leads innovation ecosystems. This partnership will ignite collaborations that redefine urban living and regional connectivity.”Media City Qatar CEO, engineer Jassim Mohamed al-Khori, said: “Design is now central to how we tell stories, build systems, and connect with the world. At Media City Qatar, we enable media and tech innovators to build solutions that resonate globally.“This partnership accelerates our mission to advance Qatar as a nexus where talent, technology, and purposeful design converge, driving economic diversification in line with the Third Qatar National Development Strategy.”More than 60 entries have been submitted for the Innovation in Design Awards, spanning architecture, sustainable design, and emerging creators.The summit features discussions such as “How is Design Saving the World?,” “Designing the Future of Tourism,” and “Creative Intelligence: How Design is Driving Innovation.” Through these conversations, the event will highlight how design is increasingly central to how we build trust, scale ideas, and solve real problems.Sessions like “Designing for Harmony” will dissect design’s capacity to address climate resilience, equitable architecture, and resource efficiency, and “Beyond the Screen: The Rise of Immersive Media in the Digital Age” will discuss NFTs, AI-generated environments, and the $480bn Mena creator economy by 2027.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Charity Initiative promotes children's right to learn worldwide

As the new academic year begins, Qatar Charity has announced the launch of the "Education 2025" initiative, aimed at expanding access to education for underprivileged children, particularly in communities affected by conflicts and natural disasters.The initiative underscores education as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of the Sustainable Development Goals, with the ultimate vision of building a brighter future for generations across the globe.Recent figures from the United Nations' Education Cannot Wait for fund reveal a sharp increase in the number of school-age children impacted by crises and in urgent need of quality education. By the end of 2024, the number reached 234mn children, of whom 37% remain completely out of school.Through Education 2025, Qatar Charity seeks to combat school dropouts, facilitate children's enrollment, and provide them with quality learning opportunities. The initiative focuses on constructing and rehabilitating schools, training teachers, and supplying students with essential educational and nutritional support, including school bags and food packages.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Participates in FAI Outdoor World Cup 2025 in the Netherlands

The Qatar Skydive Team of the Qatar Air Sports Committee of the Joint Special Forces, is participating in the FAI Outdoor World Cup 2025, currently underway in the Netherlands and continuing until September 3, with the participation of nine national teams.The Qatari team is competing in the championship with its 8-way formation team, recognized as one of the top global teams in the sport.The team holds the world record for the largest nighttime parachute formation and boasts a distinguished history of delivering impressive aerial formations and performances. The team has completed its preparations and is expected to achieve outstanding results during the championship.Representing the Qatari team in this championship are Abdullah Ahmed Al Hammadi, Salem Rashid Al Sunaid, Khalifa Saleh Al Ali, Ghanem Al Kubaisi, Bilal Al Hajjaji, Abdullah Abad Salem, Saad Al Ali, Mohammed Shams, and Saleh Al Muhannadi.The Qatari participation is anticipated to be strong and distinctive, especially given the significant attention air sports receive to consistently reflect Qatar’s high standards.Since 2008, Qatari air sports have achieved remarkable success through multiple participations in continental and global championships, earning numerous titles and accomplishments.This success is attributed to the generous support and continuous attention from the wise leadership, which has ensured the provision of all necessary resources to elevate the level of national teams and represent Qatar in the best possible way on the international stage.The State of Qatar places great importance, both officially and popularly, on parachuting sports, which have become a prominent feature in national and public celebrations, especially during the National Day celebrated annually on December 18.

Gulf Times
Qatar

NPC concludes 'Data Summer Camp'

The National Planning Council (NPC) has concluded the "Data Summer Camp 2025" organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Youth (MSY), represented by the Qatar Scientific Club (QSC).The camp was held over five days at the Club’s headquarters in Doha.The camp welcomed 125 participants who had the opportunity to explore Qatar’s Open Data Portal, which hosts more than 1,100 datasets covering various economic, social, and service sectors.They also worked on developing innovative solutions, including interactive dashboards using Microsoft Power BI, smart applications, and predictive models based on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms.These efforts strengthened their ability to link real-world challenges with modern digital tools and implement projects that contribute to the Qatar National Vision 2030.The programme featured specialised workshops, practical exercises, and applied projects inspired by the needs and development aspirations of Qatari society.This enriched the participants’ experience and enhanced their skills in deriving analytical insights and effectively utilising data.During the closing ceremony, the top three winning teams in both categories, high school and university students aged 15-22, were honoured.The ceremony included final presentations by the shortlisted teams, where participants presented their projects designed to provide practical solutions aligned with the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030.In the high school category, Team Mesaieed won first place for a project on using solar energy in households to reduce natural gas consumption and contribute to the transition toward renewable energy and sustainable development.Team Smaisma secured second place for a project proposing solutions to prevent water waste and showcasing datasets that could help raise awareness of this critical issue.Team Al Sadd came third with a project analysing the number of students with disabilities and the dedicated staff supporting them.In the university category, Team Tamkeen claimed first place for a project creating a platform for persons with disabilities aimed at reducing employment gaps compared to their peers.Team Al Khor came second for a project analysing national databases to identify the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions and electricity consumption, providing insights to integrate renewable energy sources and implement measures to reduce Qatar’s carbon footprint.Team Reginald won third place for a project analysing Qatar’s import and export activities using Harmoniszed System (HS) codes and linking them to a *CO₂ emissions database, enabling precise and targeted environmental analysis.The director of the NPC’s National Data Affairs Department, Maha Rashid al-Mattwi, emphasised the importance of this camp as part of a series of regular initiatives and activities organised by the Council to promote innovation, encourage youth to develop skills in statistical analysis and AI, and harness the power of data to support Qatar’s economy."The Data Summer Camp is an important step toward preparing a new generation capable of understanding the language of numbers, analysing data, and transforming information into tools for development and innovation,” she said."We believe Qatar’s future depends on nurturing young minds and equipping them with the tools of digital transformation so they can play an active role in nation-building and in realising its ambitious vision," al-Mattwi added.

Gulf Times
Sport

Asal and Gohar top draws for QTerminals Qatar Classic 2025

The draws for the first Platinum event of the 2025/26 PSA Squash Tour season have been released, with World No.1s Mostafa Asal and Nouran Gohar named as the top seeds for the QTerminals Qatar Classic 2025.Returning to the PSA calendar for its 22nd edition, the QTerminals Qatar Classic will see 64 of the world's leading squash players descend upon the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex in Doha from September 28th to October 4th. Every second of action will be available to watch live on SQUASHTV.Current World Champion Asal leads the men's field and will arrive targeting a first Qatar Classic title of his career. Last year, 'The Raging Bull' enjoyed a standout season, which yielded seven title successes and just six defeats from his 60 matches on the PSA Squash Tour.At the other end of the draw, World No.2 Diego Elias has been named as the No.2 seed and will return to defend the trophy he captured in stunning fashion 12 months ago. Last year, the 28-year-old defeated then-World No.1 Ali Farag and Asal in straight games each to lift the title, whilst also having won the event back in 2021. Elias will also be hoping to replicate his recent form against Asal if they were to meet in the final, having defeated the World No.1 in six of their last seven meetings on tour.Elias can be found in the same half of the draw as No.4 seed Joel Makin, who ended his 2024/25 campaign in superb form, capturing the first major title of his career at the PSA Squash Tour Finals. The 30-year-old Welshman will have to be on his guard right from the get-go, however, having drawn two-time World Junior Champion Mohamad Zakaria in round one, before a potential second-round tie with fellow up-and-coming talent Jonah Bryant.World No.4 Paul Coll has been handed an equally tough draw, with the hugely talented World No.10 Youssef Ibrahim awaiting the Kiwi in what could prove to be a blockbuster first-round tie.Two Englishmen and two Egyptians occupy the 5/8 seeding positions in the men's draw, with the ElShorbagy brothers, Mohamed and Marwan, joined by Karim Abdel Gawad and Youssef Soliman. England's Mohamed has enjoyed vast success at the Qatar Classic, picking up the title in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2022 and will open his account against Spanish No.1 Iker Pajares.Meanwhile, in the women's draw, World No.1 Nouran Gohar and World No.2 Nour El Sherbini have been named as the top two seeds in their respective halves of the draw, with Gohar arriving looking to overturn her five-game defeat to her arch-rival in last year's final. 'The Terminator' has won almost all there is to win in the sport, but the Qatar Classic crown is a piece of silverware that has eluded her since its return to the PSA calendar in 2023. Her account begins with a tricky opening round match against British No.1 Georgina Kennedy.Gohar can be found in the same half of the draw as World No.4 Olivia Weaver, who will be looking to continue where she left off at the backend of the 2024/25 season. The USA No.1 reached her maiden major final on tour at the PSA Squash Tour Finals, but is still eying a first career win against any of the established 'Big Three' in the women's game.Elsewhere, El Sherbini faces a potential blockbuster semi-final with World No.3 Hania El Hammamy, if the pair were to come through their respective draws. The last two editions of the Qatar Classic have seen the Egyptian pair deliver two five-game thrillers, with the winner of their encounter going on to pick up the title on both occasions.Further back in the top-eight seedings, three-time World Junior Champion Amina Orfi, Japan's Satomi Watanabe, Belgium's No.1 Tinne Gilis and Malaysia's Sivasangari Subramaniam will all be hoping to launch bids into the latter stages of the event.Local favourite Abdulla al-Tamimi will lead Qatari hopes as he makes his tenth appearance at the Platinum-level event. The World No.22 takes on compatriot and tournament wildcard Ali al-Darwish in round one, while the second wildcard in the men's event, Salem al-Malki, faces Fares Dessouky.The DrawWomen's:[1] Nouran Gohar (EGY) v Georgina Kennedy (ENG)Nada Abbas (EGY) v Jasmine Hutton (ENG)Georgia Adderley (SCO) v Nele Gilis (BEL)[WC] Nadine Shahin (EGY) v [8] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS)[6] Satomi Watanabe (JPN) v Aira Azman (MAS)Zeina Mickawy (EGY) v Rachel Arnold (MAS)Hana Ramadan (EGY) v Marina Stefanoni (USA)Kenzy Ayman (EGY) v [3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY)[4] Olivia Weaver (USA) v Farida Mohamed (EGY)Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY) v Mariam Metwally (EGY)Tesni Murphy (WAL) v Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY)Ka Yi Lee (HKG) v [7] Tinne Gilis (BEL)[5] Amina Orfi (EGY) v Melissa Alves (FRA)Aifa Azman (MAS) v Tomato Ho (HKG)[WC] Nour Heikal (EGY) v Hana Moataz (EGY)Sana Ibrahim (EGY) v [2] Nour El Sherbini (EGY)Men's:[1] Mostafa Asal (EGY) v Ramit Tandon (IND)Baptiste Masotti (FRA) v Gregoire Marche (FRA)Declan James (ENG) v Aly Abou Eleinen (EGY)Greg Lobban (SCO) v [8] Youssef Soliman (EGY)[6] Karim Abdel Gawad (EGY) v Abhay Singh (IND)Fares Dessouky (EGY) v [WC] Salem al-Malki (QAT)Curtis Malik (ENG) v Juan Vargas (COL)Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) v [3] Paul Coll (NZL)[4] Joel Makin (WAL) v Mohamad Zakaria (EGY)Jonah Bryant (ENG) v Nicolas Mueller (SUI)Abdulla al-Tamimi (QAT) v Ali al-Darwish (QAT)Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA) v [5] Marwan ElShorbagy (ENG)[7] Mohamed ElShorbagy (ENG) v Iker Pajares (ESP)Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) v Raphael Kandra (GER)Mazen Hesham (EGY) v Dimitri Steinmann (SUI)Eain Yow Ng (MAS) v [2] Diego Elias (PER)