tag

Sunday, December 07, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "NU-Q" (358 articles)

The U-17 World Cup 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.
Sport

FIFA U-17 World Cup showcases Qatar’s world-class sporting venues

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].

Gulf Times
Sport

FIFA teams up with Nour and Yarden for FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar official song

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.

Abdelwahed El-Wakil receives the award during the Tamayouz Excellence Award Ceremony in Baghdad, held as part of the inaugural Arab Architecture Festival.
Region

Abdelwahed El-Wakil receives Tamayouz Lifetime Achievement Award

Renowned Arab architect Abdelwahed El-Wakil has been named the recipient of 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Tamayouz Excellence Award.El-Wakil was recognised during the Tamayouz Excellence Award Ceremony in Baghdad, held as part of the inaugural Arab Architecture Festival. The award celebrates his pioneering role in reviving traditional Islamic architecture, his extensive contributions to built projects and research, and his enduring influence as an educator and mentor.Born in Cairo in 1943, El-Wakil studied architecture at Ain Shams University, where he graduated with distinction in 1965. While initially influenced by modernist design, a formative mentorship under Hassan Fathy reoriented his vision towards traditional and vernacular methods. His career has since become synonymous with the revival of Islamic architectural heritage, integrating local craftsmanship and climate-responsive design with a timeless sense of dignity and purpose.Among his earliest celebrated works is the Halawa House in Agami, Egypt, which earned him the first Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1980. This milestone project, rooted in vernacular and climate-sensitive design, set the stage for a career defined by innovation grounded in tradition. During the 1970s and 1980s, El-Wakil became a leading authority on Islamic architecture, with his mosque designs in Jeddah and Madina reshaping the urban and cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia. Notable projects such as the King Saud Mosque demonstrated his mastery of brick construction, vaults, and domes, while reaffirming the enduring relevance of heritage building methods in modern contexts.His influence extended internationally, with landmark projects including The Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies in the United Kingdom, a work that reflects his capacity to blend cultural identity, spiritual purpose, and architectural excellence across diverse geographies.El-Wakil’s architectural contributions have been recognised worldwide. In addition to being the only recipient of two Aga Khan Awards, he was the recipient of the Richard H. Driehaus Prize for Classical Architecture in 2009 and the Arthur Ross Award for Excellence in the Classical Tradition in 2023. These accolades place him among the most influential architects of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.Ahmed Al-Mallak, Founding Director of Tamayouz, commented on the selection: “This year recognition of the distinguished Egyptian Architect Abdelwahed El-Wakil is in recognition of his achievements as an architect who contributed towards the advancement of architecture through his built work and extensive research, his outstanding contributions to important initiatives for the built environment, and as a respected educator and mentor for generations of younger architects.”The prize was given during the Tamayouz biennial ceremony, which was part of the Tamayouz-organised inaugural Arab Architecture Festival held in Baghdad under the Patronage of the Prime Minister of Iraq.The Tamayouz Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates architects whose careers have had a profound impact on the profession and the built environment. By recognising Abdelwahed El-Wakil in 2025, Tamayouz pays tribute to a visionary who has elevated architecture through his built work, research, and teaching, and who continues to inspire future generations around the world.The Lifetime Achievement Award was previously presented to Iraq’s renowned architects: Dr Mohamed Makiya (2014), Dr Rifat Chadirji (2015), Dr Kahtan Al-Madfai (2016), Hisham Munir (2017) and Maath Alousi (2018). In (2019), the award opened to architects from across the Near East and North Africa, and was presented to Palestinian-Jordanian architect Dr Rasem Badran, and in (2020) to Egyptian architect Dr Abdelhalim Ibrahim Abdelhalim.

Gulf Times
Region

Tens of thousands of Palestinians perform Friday prayer at Al-Aqsa

Tens of thousands of Palestinians performed Friday prayer at the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque, amidst the strict military measures imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities on access to the mosque. Palestinian News & Information Agency (WAFA) reported that the occupation forces tightened their grip at the gates of Al-Aqsa Mosque, deploying iron barriers, stopping young men, and checking their identity cards. Following the arrival of the worshippers, the occupation forces arrested a person from inside the mosque during the Friday sermon. Israeli authorities continue to deny thousands of Palestinians from the occupied West Bank access to Jerusalem for prayers at Al-Aqsa, requiring special permits to cross the military checkpoints encircling the city.

The award recognises outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions to advancing the maritime industry and enhancing its overall performance and efficiency
Business

Mwani Qatar CEO awarded ‘Personality of the Year’ at TMS Awards 2025

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.

HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani
Qatar

Doha set to host first UN meeting outside New York and Geneva

Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN, HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani, has affirmed that the Second World Summit for Social Development, to be held in Doha, marks the first official meeting of the UN General Assembly to convene outside its traditional venues in New York and Geneva, in accordance with the Assembly's rules of procedure.In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Sheikha Alya said that hosting this historic summit in Doha underscores Qatar's position as an active and strategic partner of the UN, adding that in just a few days, Doha will once again open its doors to the world, guided by its unwavering commitment to international solidarity and multilateral co-operation.She emphasised that Qatar welcomes the international community back to Doha, a city that has become a global symbol of dialogue, partnership, and hope.She recalled that Qatar has previously hosted a series of landmark UN conferences, including the 2008 Follow-up International Conference on Financing for Development to Review the Implementation of the Monterrey Consensus, the 18th Conference of the Parties (COP18) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2012, the 13th UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD XIII), and the 5th UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) in 2023 — all united by the shared goal of promoting prosperity and achieving sustainable development for all.HE Sheikha Alya noted that the world returns to Doha to participate in the Second World Summit for Social Development, which will be held from Nov 4 to 6, marking a pivotal moment to renew the commitments first made in Copenhagen three decades ago and to set forth bold visions and practical solutions for advancing social development.She highlighted that the summit will bring together more than 8,000 participants representing Member States, the UN system, and key stakeholders — including parliamentarians, civil society organisations, youth, academia, and representatives of workers, employers, and the private sector — all united in reaffirming their commitment to social justice and translating that commitment into concrete actions that place people at the heart of sustainable development.She underlined that at the heart of this historic summit lies the "Doha Political Declaration," a global call to action that renews governments' commitment to creating an enabling economic, political, social, cultural, and legal environment for achieving inclusive social development for all.She further pointed out that several key events will take place during the summit, leveraging this global gathering, most notably, the inaugural meeting of the "Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty." The summit will also witness a significant milestone with the convening of the "Doha Solutions Forum for Social Development," which represents a turning point toward adopting innovative and practical initiatives. The forum will be held alongside two major events — the Private Sector Forum and the Civil Society Forum — in addition to a wide range of activities taking place at the state-of-the-art Qatar National Convention Centre.HE Sheikha Alya emphasised that Doha is once again establishing itself as a beacon of global solidarity, where commitments transform into inspiration and partnerships become a driving force for progress, embodying a shared vision of an inclusive and sustainable future of peace and prosperity for all.

Dignitaries join Turkish ambassador Dr Mustafa Goksu in cutting a ceremonial cake at the celebration Wednesday in Doha. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam
Qatar

‘Qatar-Turkiye friendship will continue to grow stronger, for world peace, stability’

The Embassy of Turkiye in Qatar marked Wednesday the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye. The event was hosted by the Turkish ambassador Dr Mustafa Goksu in the presence of a number of Qatari and other dignitaries.HE the Shura Council Speaker Hassan bin Abdullah al-Ghanem, HE the Minister of State and Qatar National Library president Dr Hamad al-Kawari, HE the Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanem, HE the Minister of Labour Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Smaikh al-Marri, HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ protocol director HE ambassador Ibrahim bin Yousuf Fakhro, Eritrean ambassador and the Diplomatic Corps dean Ali Ibrahim, alongside other dignitaries, heads of diplomatic missions and senior members of the Turkish community in Qatar were present.Dr Goksu stressed that “our brotherly relationship with Qatar holds a truly exceptional and special place. Thanks to the wise leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, this brotherhood has evolved into a model strategic partnership. In recent years, relations between Turkiye and Qatar have developed rapidly, reaching an exemplary level of regional and international co-operation. Within this framework, the High Strategic Committee was established as the institutional foundation of our partnership. The committee convenes annually, alternately in both countries, and its 11th meeting was held last week in Doha under the leadership of our two heads of state.“To date, more than 120 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed between our countries, covering all areas of life. Turkish companies have become reliable partners in Qatar’s development projects, while Qatari investors contribute to growth and job creation in Turkiye. Our economic co-operation has extended beyond our borders, encompassing joint projects in various parts of the world — spreading prosperity to other regions as well. Turkiye and Qatar have always stood by each other in difficult times.“Turkiye — as in the past — will continue today and in the future to stand by our friendly State of Qatar, supporting its sovereignty and security with all our capabilities in the face of any threat or aggression.”Further, he stressed the joint Qatar-Turkiye co-operation and efforts to enhance regional and world peace and stability in several areas including Palestine, Gaza, Syria, Sudan, Pakistan and Afghanistan, and other international issues that both countries help resolve peacefully.The ambassador reiterated that today, Turkiye — with its rich history, robust institutions, strategic geographic location, qualified human resources, dynamic economy, and active diplomacy — stands as a responsible actor in its region and beyond, working for peace, justice, and stability.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Gaza truce violation disappointing: PM

The Gaza ceasefire violations are very disappointing and frustrating, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani told the Council on Foreign Relations in New York Wednesday."We were trying to contain it and we mobilised right away after this and in full coordination with the US. We have seen that the US also is committed to the deal."We have been very clear with Hamas and Hamas's response was also very clear to us that they are willing to give up their governance. The open question from their perspective is that this is an obligation on all the factions not on Hamas only."HE Sheikh Mohammed said he expected the ceasefire to hold in Gaza despite a "violation" as Israel carried out strikes in response to Palestinian fire."Fortunately I think the main parties -- both of them -- are acknowledging that the ceasefire should hold and they should stick to the agreement".Gaza's civil defense agency said the Israeli strikes killed more than 100 people, including at least 35 children.HE the prime minister called the Israeli strike on Doha that killed five Hamas members and a Qatari security person not only "a shock but a game-changer for all the region.""I think that the attack itself has shown the US that there are all the red lines being crossed in the region," he said.(Al Jazeera)

Gulf Times
Qatar

Doha becomes hub of innovation, culture, and economy in Nov

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

New Zealand's Blair Tickner celebrates a wicket during the second one-day international (ODI) against England at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Wednesday. AFP
Sport

Late replacement Tickner fires NZ to ODI series win over England

Tickner replaces injured Jamieson, shines with 4 wicketsMitchell's unbeaten 56 leads NZ to series victoryEngland's Archer impresses despite defeatLate replacement Blair Tickner took four for 34 and Daryl Mitchell hit 56 not out as New Zealand beat England by five wickets in the second one-day international in Hamilton on Wednesday to seal the three-match series.The Black Caps skittled the tourists for 175 in just over 35 overs and, despite some fine pace bowling from Jofra Archer, Mitchell again steered the hosts across the line as he had in their victory in the series opener in Tauranga on Sunday.Seamer Tickner was brought into the squad on Sunday as a replacement for the injured Kyle Jamieson and got his first international start since May 2023 when Matt Henry was ruled out of the match with a calf strain on Wednesday.The 32-year-old wasted no time in making his presence felt at Seddon Park by strangling Joe Root down the leg side to oust the former England skipper for 25 before ripping through the tail to claim his best figures in the ODI format."I thought I was just going to come in and run some drinks, but it was awesome to play," said Tickner."The boys up front did well, and I just sort of continued the job off. It was a good bowling performance all round from everyone. No pressure, really, for me, I'm just going to go back to the domestic grind."Mitchell Santner's spin accounted for dangerman Harry Brook after a run-a-ball 34, while Jamie Overton top-scored for the tourists with 42 from 28 balls before he holed out.Archer (3-23) trapped Will Young in front for a duck on the fourth ball of New Zealand's innings and the England quick's pace made the early part of the chase distinctly uncomfortable for the home batters.Kane Williamson eked out 21 from 39 balls before dragging on an Overton delivery to bring Mitchell out to join Rachin Ravindra with 134 runs still required for victory.Opener Ravindra picked out a fielder at deep fine leg with a pull shot early in Archer's second spell to depart for 54 and Tom Latham quickly followed to give Adil Rashid his first wicket.Archer removed Michael Bracewell for five with his final delivery of the match but skipper Santner made 34 not out and Mitchell secured the winning runs in the 34th over with a thick outside edge for his sixth four."It's disappointing to say the least," said the England captain Brook."We want to go out there and entertain the world and it's just not come off in the last couple of games."It was only two, three games ago when we made 400 against South Africa so it's not far away, and hopefully we can have a good game on Saturday."The third ODI takes place in Wellington on Saturday.BRIEF SCORES:New Zealand 177 for 5 (Mitchell 56*, Ravindra 54, Santner 34*, Archer 3-23) beat England 175 (Overton 42, Brook 34, Tickner 4-34, Smith 2-27) by five wickets

From left: Officials from FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar Local Organising Committee – Director of Local and Regional Media Mohammed al-Khanji, Mobility Director Eng. Abdulaziz Fakhroo, Venue Management Senior Manager Eng. Jassim al-Obaidly and Senior Marketing Communication and Manager Ahmed al-Meghessib address a press conference: PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil
Sport

Qatar promises festival of football at FIFA U-17 World Cup

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has reaffirmed Qatar's readiness to host the historic youth tournament, taking place from November 3-27.At a press conference, the LOC officials – Mobility Director Eng. Abdulaziz Fakhroo, Venue Management Senior Manager Eng. Jassim al-Obaidly, Senior Marketing Communication Manager Ahmed al-Meghessib and Director of Local and Regional Media Mohammed al-Khanji – unveiled key tournament details, operational preparations and comprehensive measures to deliver an exceptional experience for the 48 participating teams and fans expected to attend the event.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar is the first tournament of its kind to feature 48 teams, with as many as eight matches a day, for a total of 104 matches. The tournament will be contested across eight pitches at the state-of-the-art Competition Complex in Aspire Zone, with the final set to take place at Khalifa International Stadium.Fakhroo emphasised that the experience gained from hosting previous tournaments has been instrumental in enhancing Qatar’s operational readiness for major events. He noted that staging all matches within a single location at Aspire Zone is a new experience for the organisers but expressed confidence in its success. He added that a simple opening ceremony will precede the Qatar-Italy opening match on Pitch No. 7.In addition, a dedicated Fan Zone will feature football competitions, e-gaming zones, live entertainment and cultural performances that reflect Qatari heritage and the diversity of the participating teams – all designed to create a festive football atmosphere.Organisers also announced that the tournament has already attracted wide international attention, with over 500 media organisations from 65 nations confirmed to cover the event.In keeping with the LOC’s commitment to sustainability, organisers announced that the tournament will operate under proven environmental practices from the FIFA World Cup 2022, including comprehensive waste management and recycling programmes. Disabled fans can avail a number of accessibility services including audio descriptive commentary for select matches, as well as sensory rooms in the Fan Zone.Qatar’s modern transportation network will ensure barrier-free access for all spectators. The Sports City metro station on the Golden Line provides immediate access to Aspire Zone, while dedicated ride-sharing and taxi drop-off zones are also available for maximum convenience. Spectators opting for private vehicles can take advantage of expansive parking facilities, with clearly marked accessibility spaces for visitors with mobility requirements. Wheelchair-accessible taxis will also be available through the Karwa app.Around 500 volunteers will support operations across multiple functional areas, embodying the community spirit that define Qatar's approach to hosting major international events.Host nation Qatar has been drawn in Group A alongside Italy, South Africa, and Bolivia. The young Maroons will begin their campaign against Italy on November 3, aiming to equal or surpass their best-ever U-17 World Cup finish — fourth place in the 1991 edition.Fans can purchase FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar tickets at: www.roadtoqatar.qa. Tickets will be available as a Day Pass for QR 20, which will enable fans to attend multiple matches a day as well as cultural and entertainment activities in the Fan Zones.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. Disabled fans can request accessible tickets by emailing: [email protected] 2025 edition marks the first of five consecutive FIFA U-17 World Cups that Qatar will host through 2029, reflecting the nation's long-term commitment to developing youth football globally and cementing its status as a leading sports destination. For tournament updates, follow @u17worldcupqa on all major social media platforms.For the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 match schedule, visit: www.roadtoqatar.qa. Download the RoadtoQatar app to view, manage and transfer purchased tickets. The app, now available on iOS and Android, is mandatory for venue entry during the tournament.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Deputy PM meets Turkiye's defence minister

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan al-Thani met with Turkish Minister of National Defence Yasar Guler in Ankara Tuesday. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the inauguration of the BMC armoured vehicles and heavy engines factory in the Turkish capital. The two ministers discussed issues of mutual interest and ways to strengthen and expand defence co-operation between their countries. Senior military officials from both sides attended the meeting.