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City University Qatar (CUQ) marked a milestone with the official inauguration of its new, state-of-the-art campus in Lusail, held alongside the graduation of the Class of 2025, a statement said.This achievement underscores CUQ’s commitment since its establishment in 2018 to delivering world-class higher education and supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 by preparing future-ready leaders and innovators, it was explained.Situated in the heart of Lusail’s Smart City, the new 11,500sqm campus is designed to accommodate up to 5,000 students and features a distinctive contemporary architectural design.The campus hosts advanced academic facilities, including cutting-edge laboratories for biomedical engineering, architecture, and artificial intelligence, as well as smart lecture theatres and flexible learning spaces. These facilities are designed to promote research, practical training, and interactive learning.CUQ offers a wide range of academic programmes, spanning undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, along with advanced professional diplomas. The University also provides an International Foundation Year, language preparation, and internationally recognised standardised testing programmes such as IELTS.Speaking at the inauguration, Noura Mohamed al-Ansari, director of Scholarships Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, praised CUQ’s role in advancing Qatar’s educational landscape."Today’s milestone reflects City University Qatar’s dedication to strengthening the essential role of higher education in building society and driving sustainable development. We value the University’s contribution in preparing national talent to meet the aspirations of Qatar National Vision 2030."Nasser al-Naimi, deputy CEO, highlighted CUQ’s vision for the future, stating: "By combining academic excellence with a forward-looking mission, CUQ is graduating leaders capable of shaping change. Its world-class programmes embody our firm commitment to nurturing generations that are competitive, creative, and globally relevant."Prof Faris Gorashi, president of CUQ, said: “Our commitment extends beyond providing exceptional education, we are here to empower our graduates as leaders of the future. CUQ offers an integrated academic environmentbuilt on the highest global standards. We provide students with broad opportunities for research, innovation, and leadership, ensuring they graduate ready to meet future challenges and make a meaningful impact in society."Professor Paul Bartholomew, vice-chancellor of Ulster University, added: "Our five-year collaboration with CUQ stands as a shining example of productive academic partnership. City University Qatar is not only transferring knowledge but also shaping innovators capable of leading the future. This reflects CUQ’s profound commitment to academic excellence and to securing long-term success for its students."

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 presented by Aramco and FIFA have announced that Qatar will host the final three matches of the prestigious club competition in December of this year. The annual competition will crown the best club in world football for 2025, with teams vying for the FIFA Derby of the Americas™, FIFA Challenger Cup™ and FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ trophies. Matches will take place on 10, 13 and 17 December. Qatar has successfully hosted the annual club showpiece three times before, in 2019, 2020 and most recently in 2024 when Real Madrid were crowned club champions in front of a sell-out crowd at theiconic 80-000-seater Lusail Stadium, host of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ final match. The following matches will be played in Qatar: Match 3: 10 December 2025, Doha, Qatar | FIFA Derby of the Americas™ Concacaf Champions Cup 2025 winners, Cruz Azul (Mexico) vs Winners of the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores 2025 Match 4: 13 December, 2025, Doha, Qatar | FIFA Challenger Cup™ CAF Champions League 2025 champions, Pyramids FC (Egypt) vs Winners of Match 3 Match 5: 17 December, 2025, Doha, Qatar | FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ UEFA Champions Leagues 2025 champions, Paris Saint-Germain (France) vs Winners of Match 4 The FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025™ adds to an exciting two months of world-class football in the country. Qatar is also set to host the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ from 3 - 27 November 2025, as well as the FIFA Arab Cup 2025™, the second edition of the regional tournament, from 1 - 18 December 2025. The FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 will take place during the rest days of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, showcasing Qatar’s ability to host multiple sporting events at the same time. All tournament venues will be connected seamlessly to public transportation and will offer barrier-free experience to disabled fans. For all tournament related updates, follow @RoadtoQatar on all major social media platforms.

Formula 2, the premier feeder series to Formula 1, is once again set to bring the next generation of racing stars to Lusail International Circuit (LIC) this year. Often deemed as the ultimate proving ground for young drivers, Formula 2 delivers high-intensity, wheel-to-wheel racing where talent and racecraft are on full display – often shaping the careers of future Formula 1 champions. Last season, LIC hosted one of the final rounds of the F2 calendar, where fans witnessed a dramatic showdown featuring Gabriel Bortoleto, Isack Hadjar, Zane Maloney, and Paul Aron in their hunt for the title. Bortoleto ultimately claimed the championship, ahead of Paul Aron in second and Isack Hadjar in third. Both Bortoleto and Hadjar have since progressed to the pinnacle of motorsport, joining the 2025 F1 grid – a testament to how F2 serves as the final stepping stone to F1, where every overtake, pit stop, and podium finish can shape a career. As the 2025 season builds momentum, LIC once again takes its place as the penultimate round on the calendar, promising another weekend of intense racing. The 5.38 km circuit, with its flowing corners and 1.068 km straight, offers a true test of driver skill – one that pushes the grid to its limits in both sprint and feature races. Drivers to Watch in 2025 This year’s F2 championship is proving as competitive as ever, with several standout talents emerging at the top of the standings: Leonardo Fornaroli (188 points) – The Italian continues to lead the standings and remains the benchmark thanks to his consistency across both Sprint and Feature races. Fornaroli’s 2025 wins include Silverstone Sprint, Spa Sprint, Budapest Feature, and Monza Sprint. In Baku, he crossed the line third but dropped to fifth after a 10-second time penalty, losing ground in the championship fight. Jak Crawford (169 points) – The American strengthened his championship bid with a commanding Feature Race win in Baku—his fourth victory of the year—after converting pole position and fending off Joshua Duerksen in a tense finish. Crawford’s season tally also includes triumphs in the Imola Sprint, Monaco Feature, and Silverstone Feature. As Aston Martin’s development driver, he’s now Fornaroli’s closest challenger. Luke Browning (161 points) – The British driver remains firmly in contention. His maiden Feature Race victory at Monza and a string of consistent podiums keep him within striking distance of the leaders. Richard Verschoor (151 points) – The Dutchman has enjoyed a strong campaign, highlighted by three wins (Jeddah Feature, Barcelona Sprint, Spielberg Feature). In Baku, he added more points with a solid eighth-place finish, keeping him in touch with the top group. Alex Dunne (130 points) – The Irish rookie continues to shine. With Feature Race wins in Sakhir and Imola plus multiple podiums, Dunne underlines his aggressive but controlled style, cementing his place as one of the season’s breakout stars. Further down the order, Josep Martí (112 points) and Arvid Lindblad (109 points) continue to impress—Martí with his early-season Sprint win and Lindblad with standout performances like his charge from P14 to sixth in Baku. Dino Beganovic (96 points) also made waves in Azerbaijan, adding a Sprint Race victory and a Feature Race podium to his résumé, while Roman Staněk (81 points) remains a consistent points-scorer. A Proven Pathway to Formula 1 Looking ahead to 2026, F2 drivers are already being linked to full-time F1 seats. Jak Crawford is confirmed to be in active talks with Cadillac’s F1 team for 2026, positioning him as one of the foremost candidates should an opportunity arise. Meanwhile, Red Bull is preparing Arvid Lindblad for a likely promotion to their Racing Bulls outfit, having granted him an early super-licence and placed him behind the wheel in F1 practice sessions. These developments underscore F2’s role as the proving ground for motorsport’s next generation. With the new Dallara F2 chassis introduced in 2024 – lighter, more powerful, and designed to mimic modern F1 handling characteristics – drivers are developing skills directly transferable to the F1 grid. The Stage is Set at LIC As the championship battle tightens, LIC will once again provide a decisive stage. The Qatar round being the second last of the season, running as part of the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 weekend, offers fans the unique opportunity to witness both F1 and F2 in action – seeing today’s heroes and tomorrow’s stars compete on the same track. Tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 are available now at https://tickets.lcsc.qa.

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has announced an exclusive hospitality offering in collaboration with Cipriani Doha, elevating its hospitality experience and setting a new benchmark for premium Formula 1 hospitality.Renowned for its heritage of Italian elegance and four generations of tradition in which “to serve is to love”, Cipriani will bring its signature refinement to the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025. Guided by the brand’s philosophy of simplicity and quality, the experience will showcase Cipriani’s celebrated Venetian and Italian cuisine — including Carpaccio “alla Cipriani”, Baked Tagliolini and the iconic Vanilla Meringue — crafted with the finest ingredients and impeccable standards that have made Cipriani a global icon.The Cipriani experience will be hosted in Premiere Hospitality, located at the end of the Main Straight. Guests will enjoy climate-controlled indoor seating, an expansive outdoor terrace, and attached trackside grandstand access — providing outstanding views as the F1 cars accelerate down the straight and contest position into Turn 1.The experience will be complemented by a premium international beverage service, along with a selection of Cipriani’s classics. Exclusive live entertainment, including cultural performances and professional DJs, will create an elevated atmosphere under the lights of Lusail International Circuit.Hospitality packages are now available, but only a limited number of passes remain. The passes can be bought from here.

In the lead-up to the one of the anticipated event on the Qatar sporting calendar, Lusail International Circuit has unveiled its 2025 Qatar Grand Prix Show car livery that will serve as the centerpiece of its fan engagement efforts for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025. Brought to life with a custom design commissioned by Lusail International Circuit, it marks the beginning of a series of fan activations across the country in the build-up to race weekend at Lusail International Circuit, taking place from November 28–30. The show car’s livery embodies Qatar’s identity and the spirit of modern motorsport. Its sweeping speed lines capture the thrill of Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, while architectural elements inspired from Lusail International Circuit and a re-imagined falcon pattern symbolising agility, speed and competitive spirit bring a distinctive local character to the design. At the heart of the Formula 1 campaign is the slogan “Where Hearts Are Racing.” More than just a tagline, it captures the excitement of Formula 1’s return to Lusail International Circuit, the passion of fans, and the energy of a nation embracing motorsport at a global stage. Fans will also have the opportunity to see the show car up close as part of a special roadshow across Qatar in the lead-up to the Grand Prix, bringing the excitement of Formula 1 directly to the community. With tickets selling fast, fans are encouraged to secure their seats now at tickets.lcsc.qa and be part of the action.

QIIB and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing co-operation in real estate development and financing, by enabling the bank to provide financing for purchase of plots in the Huzoom Lusail project in line with its financing terms and conditions. Huzoom is a key real estate development in Lusail City wholly-owned by Qatari Diar. The MoU was signed by QIIB Chief Executive Officer Dr Abdulbasit Ahmad al-Shaibei and Qatari Diar Chief Executive Officer Ali Mohamed al-Ali in the presence of senior officials from both sides. The agreement represents an important step in supporting the significant urban development taking place in Lusail City, which has become one of the most prominent residential, commercial, and investment destinations in Qatar, attracting increasing interest from both individuals and companies. Huzoom Lusail project, is part of Lusail City, and is one of the ambitious developments that aligns with Qatar’s Vision 2030, and which aims to diversify the economy and boost investments in infrastructure and urban development. The MoU also reflects the commitment of both parties to build strategic partnerships that contribute to strengthening the real estate sector as a key pillar of the national economy. It further highlights QIIB’s commitment to financing major development projects and providing real estate solutions tailored to the needs of various customer segments, meeting their housing and investment aspirations. Al-Shaibei said: “We are delighted to sign this MoU with Qatari Diar, one of the leading real estate development companies in Qatar and the region. We are confident that this partnership will enhance the range of real estate financing options available to customers who are seeking to invest in the Huzoom Lusail Project. “At QIIB, real estate financing is a top priority, as it is a key driver of the country’s urban renaissance. We are always keen to provide the best real estate financing products with flexible terms, easy procedures, and extended repayment periods, in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and in support of comprehensive economic development.” He noted: “QIIB has developed a wide range of real estate financing solutions that address the needs of both individuals and corporates. We consistently innovate in designing these solutions to ensure financial inclusion and accessibility for all customer segments. “Expanding such partnerships with leading institutions like Qatari Diar reflects our commitment to empowering our customers to seize investment opportunities in Qatar’s real estate market under the best possible terms and conditions.” He concluded: “We are confident that the Huzoom Lusail Project will be one of the most attractive developments for investors in the coming period, thanks to its prime location and integrated services. At QIIB, we remain committed to providing the best financing facilities that deliver added value to our clients and help them achieve their housing and investment ambitions.” Al-Ali stated: “We are pleased to sign this MoU with QIIB, an important step in our efforts to provide practical financing solutions for purchasing plots in the Huzoom Lusail project. This project is one of Qatari Diar’s landmark developments in Lusail City and will represent a significant addition to Qatar’s real estate sector, as it embodies an integrated model for developing urban communities that combine living, working, and leisure, in line with the comprehensive renaissance the country is witnessing. “We are confident that this partnership with QIIB will further enhance the project’s attractiveness and open new horizons for both local and international investments.” He added: “Through this cooperation with QIIB, we look forward to enabling customers to seize the investment opportunities offered by the project and benefit from the diverse real estate financing options provided by the bank.”

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail has welcomed the internationally renowned celebrity chef Daniel Green until September 10.Specialising in healthy cuisine, chef Green is an award-winning author of 13 cookbooks on nutritious eating, selling millions worldwide, a statement said.He has designed menus for global airlines, luxury hotels, and acclaimed restaurants, and is a familiar face on leading networks including BBC, Food Network, and NBC.During his residency, chef Green will unveil the brand-new healthy menu at Wyld Erth on September 4, bringing his signature approach of guilt-free yet flavourful dining. Guests can also enjoy his specially curated dishes at Bywater and PRAIA throughout the week.From September 5-9, chef Green will host interactive cooking classes, sharing his expertise and passion for healthy living with participants in an engaging, hands-on experience.This collaboration marks a new chapter in Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail’s commitment to culinary innovation, wellbeing, and exceptional guest experiences, the statement added.