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The Embassy of Japan in Qatar hosted the 2025 Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest Award Ceremony on Wednesday. The contest, themed 'Draw a Japanese element in a Qatari setting,' attracted over 130 entries from artists of diverse ages and backgrounds, an embassy statement said. The first prize went to Moza al-Marri for her piece titled 'Qahwa wa Chai – Coffee and Tea.' The jury, which included noted Qatari artist Kholoud al-Ali, praised the participants for their creative works that truly captured the elegance of Japanese aesthetics and the warmth of Qatari environment. The contest was co-organized by Geekdom, Nakama, and the Japanese Club at Qatar University. The Embassy also thanked the sponsors, including Teyseer Motors – Suzuki, FNAC Qatar, Daiso Japan, and North Café. In his opening remarks at the ceremony, ambassador Naoto Hisajima, commended all participants for their exceptional creativity, and expressed his hope that such initiatives would continue to enhance the excellent bilateral relationship between Japan and Qatar.

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad, met with ambassador of South Sudan Lily Adhieu Martin Manyiel. Discussion during the meeting, focused on co-operation relations between the two countries and ways to support and develop them, in addition to the situation of displaced persons from Sudan.HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation emphasized the importance of adhering to the protection of civilians and ensuring the provision of essential services to them, especially in light of the deteriorating humanitarian situation in conflict-affected areas. She stressed the need to strengthen international and regional efforts to coordinate the humanitarian response and support the most vulnerable groups. HE al-Misnad also reiterated Qatar's unwavering support for the Sudanese people and its continued support for all initiatives aimed at achieving peace and alleviating the suffering of civilians in Sudan and neighbouring countries.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), in cooperation with Qatar Youth Hostels and the Friends of the Environment Center (FEC) affiliated with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, organised a series of training workshops at the headquarters of the FEC. This initiative comes as part of the preparations for the annual Youth Support Camp programme, aiming to enhance environmental awareness among young people and introduce them to the scientific and technical principles of breeding and conserving the Houbara bustard, one of Qatar’s important environmental symbols. The workshops included three main training sessions, covering various topics such as: the basic scientific and technical principles of breeding Houbara bustard in captivity; the importance of preserving biodiversity in nature reserves; sustainable environmental care methods; and the role of youth in protecting wildlife. Mohamed bin Nahar al-Nuaimi, director of the External Reserves Office at the MoECC, affirmed that organising these workshops comes within the efforts to promote environmental awareness and spread a culture of sustainability among young people. “Introducing the new generation to the fundamental principles of breeding and conserving the Houbara bustard represents an important step in instilling the concept of environmental responsibility and highlighting national efforts to protect wildlife and preserve biodiversity,” he explained. Al-Nuaimi pointed out that through these training programmes, the ministry seeks to enable young men and women to gain knowledge of modern scientific methods for bird breeding and environmental preservation, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, which places sustainable development at the heart of its goals. He added that the External Reserves Office will continue organising specialised training and awareness programmes and events to enhance community participation in environmental protection and to instill the values of conserving natural resources among all segments of society, especially youth.

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 FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 is set to take place at the state-of-the-art Competition Complex in Aspire Zone from November 3-27, promising a spectacular football festival-like atmosphere for families and fans at one of the world’s most celebrated sporting venues.Renowned as a global centre of sporting excellence since hosting the 2006 Asian Games, Aspire Zone will transform into a pulsing football hub throughout the 25 days of the tournament. A total of 104 matches will be played across eight pitches, with up to eight matches a day during the group stage through to the Round of 16. This will be the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams.The final will take place at Khalifa International Stadium, also located in the Aspire Zone, and one of eight venues that hosted matches during the historic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.“We are excited to welcome the best young talent from around the world to train and play at Qatar’s world-class sporting facilities. The pitches at Aspire Zone and Khalifa International Stadium will offer players optimal conditions to showcase their talent to the rest of the world,” said Rashid al-Khater, LOC Operations Executive Director.“Fans attending the tournament are set to experience an unforgettable football-festival like atmosphere. The compact nature of the venue will allow spectators to attend multiple matches a day, while enjoying a specially curated fan zone offering cultural and entertainment activities for everyone. We are excited to bring the world together once again to celebrate a shared passion for football,” he added.Operating daily on match days from 1:30pm until the final whistle, the fan zone will offer a family-friendly celebration of football and culture. Young fans can indulge in a variety of gaming activities, including e-sports challenges and a mini football arena.Families will also be regaled by various folkloric and cultural performances, while enjoying food and beverage stations from around the world. A dedicated sensory room will provide an inclusive space for fans with neurodivergent needs.Regarded as the world’s most unique sports city, Aspire Zone also features Aspetar, a leading orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital and Official Medical Partner of the tournament. The Zone is also home to the renowned Aspire Academy that has produced world and Olympic champions across multiple disciplines, since opening its doors in 2004, most notably track and field athlete Mutaz Barsham, regarded as one of the best high jumpers of all time.Aspire Zone is located within close proximity to Al Aziziyah (Gold line) metro station, allowing fans to easily access the venue using Qatar’s modern public transportation network. More information on how to reach the venue is available through the official tournament mobility guide: https://qr1.be/1A6UTickets can be purchased exclusively from www.roadtoqatar.qa. Fans must also download the RoadtoQatar mobile app to present purchased tickets and access tournament venues.Tickets are available as a Day Pass, enabling fans to attend multiple matches a day as well fan zone activities. Fans can also purchase a Prime Pass, which will enable them to reserve seats for high demand matches. Supporters of the Qatar national team can avail the Follow My Team ticket, which will enable them to attend all matches of the Qatari U-17 team during the group stage.All tickets will be digital and will include wheelchair accessible seating options for disabled fans. Accessible seat requests must be sent to: [email protected].

FIFA has partnered with a pair of viral emerging artists – Egypt’s Nour and Nigeria’s Yarden – to create TMRW'S GOAT, the Official Song of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.The multi-lingual anthem provides an inspirational soundtrack for the highly anticipated football festival that will take over Qatar’s Aspire Zone from 3 to 27 November. The track is now live across all major streaming services.Hailing from Cairo, Nour is an alt-pop artist whose bilingual lyrics and introspective writing build an intimate world that feels both personal and cinematic. Following the success of her breakout single Meen Ysadak, she stands on the verge of a bold new chapter, continuing to evolve her distinct voice and vision.Following the release of the track, Nour said: “Being part of TMRW'S GOAT was such a special experience. The FIFA U-17 World Cup is all about giving young players a stage to dream big — an opportunity to create something new and inspiring. Working with Yarden showed how powerful it can be when different worlds come together. The song carries that same anthemic spirit, and I hope the young players — and everyone listening — feel that energy and make it their own.”Lagos-raised artist Yarden is shaping the future of Afrobeats with a sound that fuses soul, rhythm, and global energy. Having burst onto the scene in 2023 with his viral hit Wetin, he is considered one of Nigeria’s most exciting up-and-coming voices, with music that embodies the fearless and borderless spirit of a generation of African artists shaping global sound.“TMRW'S GOAT is all about celebrating the energy, dreams, and spirit of young players who are writing their own stories,” shared Yarden. “The FIFA U-17 World Cup is where future legends are born, and this song is a reminder that greatness starts today. Working with Nour from Egypt made it even more special, it shows how music, just like football, can unite us across cultures and inspire the next generation.”The spirit of unity and competitiveness fostered by the track will be on full display as an exciting new chapter of FIFA U-17 World Cup history gets under way this Monday.This year’s edition of the tournament is the first ever 48-team FIFA competition and will once again provide a priceless opportunity for the next generation of world football’s superstars to announce themselves on the global stage.With all 104 matches taking place at the state-of-the-art Aspire Zone, fans can attend multiple games in a single day, while enjoying cultural and entertainment offerings in the adjoining fan zone. To find out more and purchase tickets, visit FIFA.com/tickets.

A large number of residents and citizens gathered at the second edition of the global event 'Relay for Life 2025' organised by Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) Friday at the Aspire Indoor Track.QCS officials and several prominent community leaders led the event in which hundreds took part to honour cancer survivors and raise awareness about cancer.**media[375732]**This event, held in more than 30 countries worldwide, was a humanitarian occasion dedicated to celebrating life, honouring cancer survivors, remembering those we have lost, and reaffirming the community’s collective commitment to continue the fight against cancer.The event featured a diverse programme of educational and entertainment activities suitable for all ages, making it a special social experience for families and friends. The event brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, and families to celebrate life, honour those we’ve lost, and provide support to cancer patients.**media[375733]**During the event, there were inspiring stories from cancer survivors, who shared their courageous journeys of confronting the disease with strength and determination, becoming a source of hope and encouragement for others going through similar experiences.The event also included touching tributes to loved ones who have passed away, in heartfelt moments that express gratitude and embody the values of compassion and unity – the essence of this global initiative.**media[375734]**“Relay for Life” is characterised by its humanitarian and awareness-driven spirit, as participants engage in a continuous four-hour walk – a powerful symbol of the ongoing battle against cancer and the determination and hope shown by patients, survivors, and their families.The event was as an opportunity to unite efforts and strengthen community solidarity by building an integrated support network that empowers patients and encourages society to adopt healthy lifestyles.**media[375736]**Furthermore, there were awareness and educational sessions to promote the importance of prevention and early detection, highlighting methods of psychological and social support for patients and their families, and shedding light on the latest developments in treatment and healthcare.Relay for Life is one of the largest global events dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. The event reflected the QCS’s mission to support cancer patients and raise public awareness about the disease.

Qatar Airways has been named the 'Best Airline in the World' at the Business Traveller Awards 2025. Held at the Sky Garden in London, the Business Traveller Awards ceremony brought together influential figures from across the travel and hospitality industry to celebrate outstanding achievements. Qatar Airways was recognised by a panel of industry experts, each bringing decades of experience and a sharp eye for excellence, for its role in advancing the aviation industry. Qatar Airways was also awarded Best Business Class in the World, Best Economy Class in the World, Best Frequent Flyer Programme in the World, Best Airline Lounge in the World (Al Mourjan Lounges, DOH), and Best Airline Between Europe and the Middle East. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori said: "We are honoured to receive these prestigious accolades that reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence. Being named World's Best Airline, alongside recognition for our Business and Economy Class cabins, loyalty programme, and lounges, is a testament to our dedication to delivering unparalleled experiences, to our customers at each travel touchpoint. These awards reaffirm our position as a global leader and top innovator in the industry, and inspire us to continue setting new leading standards for comfort, connectivity and service." Ink Global Chief Commercial Officer Michael Keating said: "Qatar Airways performed outstandingly well in this year's Business Traveller Awards, winning five of the seven global airline categories and six awards in total. From its industry-leading Business Class product to exceptional inflight service and innovations such as free Starlink Wi-Fi, Qatar Airways is a truly deserving winner. We were delighted to celebrate their success at the Global Awards ceremony in London, and Business Traveller looks forward to seeing how the airline continues to pioneer world-class travel in the years ahead." These recognitions mark another milestone in what has been an outstanding year for Qatar Airways, as the airline continues to expand its global network of over 170 destinations globally, elevate its product offerings, and drive innovation in service excellence. As the national carrier of the State of Qatar, Qatar Airways remains committed to delivering world-class hospitality, elevating the passenger experience, and earning the trust and loyalty of travellers across the globe.

Capt Abdulla Mohamed al-Khanji, chief executive officer of Mwani Qatar, has been chosen as the “Personality of the Year” at the annual The Maritime Standard (TMS) Awards 2025 ceremony, held at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai.The award recognises outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions to advancing the maritime industry and enhancing its overall performance and efficiency.With more than 22 years of experience in the maritime industry, Captain al-Khanji has held numerous leadership positions that have significantly contributed to enhancing Qatar’s global standing in maritime transport and trade.This recognition comes as part of the TMS' mission to celebrate outstanding leaders who have driven progress in maritime infrastructure, logistics services, and port competitiveness across the region. It highlights the widespread appreciation of Mwani Qatar’s efforts to promote innovation and deliver world-class services in the ports and maritime transport sectors.Held annually in the presence of senior executives and industry leaders from around the world, TMS awards have become one of the most prestigious platforms celebrating excellence and innovation across the shipping, ports, and maritime industries, particularly in the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Categories include shipping company of the year, terminal operator of the year, and woman in shipping award.

The US Federal Reserve rate cut and easing of the US-China trade tensions had their positive influence on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), where bullish sentiments prevailed for the second consecutive week. The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled 0.73% higher this week which saw the market heavyweight Industries Qatar (IQ) report QR3.4bn net profit in the first nine months (9M) of 2025. The telecom and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main bourse this week which saw Nakilat report net profit of QR1.31bn in January-September 2025. The Gulf retail investor turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw Ooredoo Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR3.1bn. The overall sentiments was seen upbeat in the market that otherwise saw shakers outnumber movers this week, which saw Aamal Company approved the sale of IMO Qatar to Frijns Structural Steel Middle East for QR6.5mn. The domestic institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse this week which saw Qamco report net profit of QR534mn in 9M-2025. The local retail investors were also increasingly bearish in the main market this week which saw Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding report a net profit of QR520mn in January-September 2025. The foreign individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.06mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.13mn trade across 23 deals. The foreign funds were seen net profit takers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.06mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QETF worth QR0.6mn trade across 54 transactions. The Islamic index was seen gaining faster than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. Market capitalisation added QR4.14bn or 0.64% to QR654.74n on the back of small and midcap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills. Trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes in the main market, while the junior bourse saw declines in turnover and volumes this week which saw the consumer goods, industrials and realty sectors together constitute more than three-fourth of the total trade volumes. The Total Return Index rose 0.73%, the All Share Index by 0.62% and the All Islamic Index by 0.81% this week which saw Meeza report net profit of QR42.4mn in January-September 2025. The telecom sector index surged 2.48%, insurance (2.32%), real estate (0.68%), industrials (0.52%), banks and financial services (0.48%) and consumer goods and services (0.44%), while transport was down 0.08% this week which saw Mekdam Holding Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR27.8mn. The market was skewed towards shakers with as many as 28 constituents reporting declines, while 22 gained and two were unchanged this week which saw Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance report net profit of QR93.08mn in 9M-2025. Major movers in the main market included QLM, Qatar German Medical Devices, Beema, Ooredoo, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Qatar Islamic Bank, Woqod, IQ, Qatar Insurance, Al Khaleej Takaful and Ezdan. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate this week. Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Baladna, Qamco, Qatar Oman Investment, Mannai Corporation, Alijarah Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water, Aamal Company, Mazaya Qatar and Gulf Warehousing were among the shakers in the main market this week. The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR191.29mn compared to QR36.59mn the week ended October 23. The Gulf individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.61mn against net profit takers of QR6.35mn the previous week. However, the domestic institutions’ net selling strengthened significantly to QR102.18mn compared to QR5.12mn a week ago. The Qatari individuals’ net selling expanded noticeably to QR78.59mn against QR63.59mn the week ended October 23. The foreign retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR7.85mn compared with net buyers of QR5.17mn the previous week. The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR2.53mn against net buyers of QR32.94mn a week ago. The Arab individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR1.75mn compared with net buyers of QR0.33mn the week ended October 23. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn the previous week. The main market saw 7% contraction in trade volumes to 551.21mn shares but on 14% jump in value to QR1.65bn and less than 1% in deals to 94,631 this week. In the venture market, trade volumes tanked 67% to 0.12mn equities, value by 68% to QR0.27mn and transactions by 65% to 45.

Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q)’s student-led literary journal, Wisteria, has released its first limited-edition zine, a student-produced publication showcasing the creativity, collaboration, and cultural curiosity. The new issue, themed around summer and the return to school, introduces a unique, experimental format for Wisteria that blends literary expression with visual design and humour. Conceptualised and produced by journalism and communication students, Lina Jaafar and Alexander Khalyatyan, who served as both editors and designers, the zine embraces the spontaneous, do-it-yourself aesthetic characteristic of zine culture while upholding NU-Q’s tradition of intellectual and artistic rigour. “These student-led initiatives reflect the kind of creativity and curiosity we love to see at Northwestern Qatar,” said Marwan M Kraidy, dean and CEO of NU-Q. “Wisteria and other student-driven projects show how our students blend intellectual exploration with creative expression, developing the confidence and communication skills that allow them to share their ideas and engage meaningfully with the world.” The issue features contributions from 10 students and recent graduates, including poetry, travel writing, reflections, humour, and philosophical musings. A recurring theme throughout the collection is hope and resilience in the face of adversity, capturing how students use creative expression to make sense of complex emotions and experiences. Works featured include Verdigris Echoes by Nomin Erdenetsogt ’27, which explores the endurance of memory and transformation; A Reflection on Hope and/or Despair? by Sylvie Uwonkunda Dushime ’25, which contemplates the tension between optimism and struggle; and Dardacha by Lina Jaafar ’28, which celebrates the warmth of dialogue and storytelling within Arab culture. Faculty adviser, Sam Meekings, associate professor in residence, said the project is a reflection of the vibrant creativity that defines the student experience at NU-Q. “Zines celebrate the quirky, the vibrant, the unique, and the irreverent, as well as the joys of homemade creativity—and that also describes our NU-Q students,” said Meekings. “Their work in creating, editing, and producing this zine issue demonstrates the many forms creativity can take and highlights the range and intensity of our community’s artistic passions.”

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.