tag

Qatar’s cruise season, which at present is witnessing a spectacular growth, has ensured a steady multiplier effect to the country’s economy, thanks to Doha Port expansion and modernisation and the appurtenant arrival of large flotillas and more passengers."The cruise economy creates a larger economic impact," an analyst, who works with a leading investment firm, told Gulf Times.Finding that the expansion of the cruise sector has been facilitated by the modernisation of cruise terminals to accommodate larger vessels while enhancing the overall visitor experience; he said these investments have enhanced the local economy, especially in areas like transportation and retail, creating new job opportunities and supporting ancillary businesses."The growth of the cruise industry is the result of a comprehensive strategic vision led by Qatar Tourism, in close collaboration with our partners at Mwani Qatar and our stakeholders. We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience that embodies Qatar’s authentic hospitality and upholds the highest internationalstandards,” according to Omar Abdulrahman al-Jaber, Chief of TourismDevelopment at Qatar Tourism.The sector directly contributes to the GDP (gross domestic product) through tourist spending on goods and services as tours, transportation and retail purchases.Additionally, it benefits from port fees, docking charges, and services purchased by cruise lines. The sector also has an indirect economic impact by creating demand for suppliers and ancillary services, thus boosting local businesses and further stimulating GDP growth."The sector’s contribution to GDP will increase in the coming years, supportingQatar’s economic diversification goals," the analyst said.The country's 2025/26 cruise season, which started off this November on a strongnote, will feature 73 scheduled cruise calls, including four maiden calls to Doha Port.The previous season witnessed with more than 396,000 visitors, reflecting a 5% year-on-year growth.Although it has a history of less than a decade, Qatar’s cruise sector has grown tremendously and now contributes influentially to the national exchequer, according to experts in the field."There has been increasing preference for Qatar as a destination for both regular cruise calls and cruises with turnaround calls," an industry insider said.Doha Port regularly hosts top international cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Emerald Cruises, and TUI Cruises with live-ship tracking showing frequent vessel movements, reflecting the port’s growing importance as a regional hub.Considering the pace of non-hydrocarbon sector, the analyst said cruise tourism can be a significant economic contributor to Qatar but long-term success hinges on policies that promote sustainability, and equitable sharing of the benefits of tourism among local communities.Qatar’s cruise sector, which was established in 2016, has helped position Qatar as a popular destination for maritime tourism in the region. The growth of the industry supports Qatar’s economy through increased tourist spending, employment and business opportunities.Cruise ships make money through two channels: Ticket sales and onboard purchases (beverages, spa treatments, art auctions, and shore excursions), which passengers pay for with pre-loaded cruise cards and chip-equipped wristbands.On average, tickets account for more than 60% of total revenue and onboard purchases make up the remaining; even as the other school of thought is onboard purchases account for the lion’s share of the profit despite tickets representing a majority.During the 2024/25 season, there were 15,000 embarkation and disembarkation and as many as 30,000 guests enjoyed a shorex experience with Discover Qatar, which is the destination management company of Qatar Airways.Promoting Qatar’s cruise industry since 2015, Qatar has proven to be one of the most sought after luxury cruise destinations in the Arabian Gulf’s winter cruise season.To support the tremendous growth of the industry, a new passenger terminal, opened in 2022. It offers passengers the same level of service and facilities as Hamad International Airport, including seamless immigration and customs, foreign exchange services, taxi and bus stands, Duty Free shops, a café, waiting areas for cruise passengers and staff, as well as city tours and other tourist information services.Collaborative efforts by Qatar Tourism and local authorities includingImmigration, Customs and Mwani Qatar, have made the disembarkation process quick and hassle-free for passengers arriving at Doha Port, enabling them to start enjoying the destination’s tourism offerings without wasting any time.The 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) highlights a vibrant and responsibly-growing global cruise sector.Cruise ship travel has emerged as a new growth area across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) and is playing a pivotal role in the transformation and diversification of regional economies, according to Knight Frank.Industry leaders highlight short cruises are becoming a foundational strategy for regional growth.In 2025, the global cruise industry is forecast to welcome 37.7mn ocean-going passengers and reach 310 ocean-going vessels.The report also includes the latest trends, the significant global economic impact of cruising and the sustainability advancements that are leading the industry to a sustainable future. 

All roads led to the Mina Park at the Old Doha Port over the weekend as the Qatar Kite Festival 2026 bespeckled the winter skies with colour and creativity.**media[406176]**Running from January 15-24, the festival has quickly become one of the season’s most anticipated attractions, drawing families, tourists, and kite enthusiasts alike.**media[406177]**The event offers free entry and features a packed programme of day and night kite displays, with international teams performing synchronised aerial shows against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.**media[406178]**Visitors can expect themed kites of every shape and size, cultural stage performances, carnival parades, and a festive atmosphere that stretches across the park.**media[406179]**Children are at the heart of the celebration, with dedicated play zones, kite-making workshops, and giveaways ensuring plenty of hands-on fun. Food and beverage outlets line the venue, making it easy for families to spend the entire day enjoying the spectacle.**media[406182]**Festival timings run from 3pm-10pm on weekdays and from 10am-10pm on weekends, giving ample opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the magic of the skies. 

Old Doha Port unveiled its key milestones in 2025, concluding an exceptional year across tourism performance and maritime operations, with record figures across key indicators. During the year, the Port expanded its international presence and implemented tourism initiatives that contributed to increased visitor demand. These achievements were accompanied by strategic developments that strengthened Old Doha Port’s position as a leading maritime tourism destination, in line with Qatar’s national vision for tourism sector growth and marine tourism development.Engineer Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, said: “This year represents a major milestone in the evolution of Old Doha Port as a premier maritime tourism destination. We welcomed more than 7 million visitors and achieved a 97% occupancy rate, alongside implementing a range of qualitative developments across the Port’s facilities, including the implementation of an air-conditioned promenade, and the expansion of the marina and yachting services.”He added: “The increase in cruise ship passengers and luxury yacht visits reflects the growing status of Old Doha Port on the global maritime tourism map. We remain committed to further strengthening our international presence through major events and strategic partnerships.”Old Doha Port recorded strong growth in maritime tourism during the 2024–2025 season, welcoming 87 cruise ships and more than 396,000 passengers, reinforcing its role as Qatar’s primary maritime gateway.Leasing and commercial activity continued to perform strongly throughout the year, with occupancy rates reaching 97% across Old Doha Port. The activation of over 60 pop-up retail outlets reinforced the Port’s role as an enabling commercial environment that supports emerging businesses and local investors.Several key infrastructure and service developments were implemented throughout the year, including the launch of the Minakom service to facilitate maritime entry procedures into Qatar, the introduction of a water transport service to support mobility during high-traffic events, and the activation of an air-conditioned promenade across the Mina District to ensure year-round comfort along the waterfront and seamless hosting of visitors throughout all seasons. In parallel, the Mina Corniche Marina was developed to increase berthing capacity, expand service offerings, and introduce premium berthing packages.The Port also completed comprehensive upgrades to public facilities, including restrooms, walkways, prayer areas, and beautification, further enriching the overall visitor experience.On the local front, Qatar Boat Show 2025 achieved unprecedented success, welcoming more than 27,000 visitors and recording a 33% increase in participating entities compared to its inaugural edition. The four-day exhibition featured 505 brands and more than 65 yachts valued at QAR 880 million, with participation from 105 countries and strong representation from Qatari companies.Additionally, Old Doha Port introduced a distinctive exhibition concept, the Fishing Exhibition and Fishing Competition, which further highlighted the Port’s role in preserving Qatar’s maritime heritage and traditional fishing practices. The competition recorded the largest participation of its kind in Qatar, with more than 550 competitors across 132 teams and 25 winners announced. The exhibition hosted over 30 exhibitors and showcased more than 150 local and regional fishing brands. Additionally, one of the leading events on the Port’s calendar, the Mina Pre-Owned Boat Show, hosted over 70 marine vessels and six inspection companies to facilitate sales, attracting a large number of visitors and marine enthusiasts. Furthermore, Old Doha Port hosted more than 100 local and international events, including the Ekbes Beach Volleyball Championship, Rasta Festival, Aquabike World Championship, World Arabian Horse Championship, Digital Creators Awards, and Polo AlMarsa, further establishing the Port as a destination for hosting diverse events along the waterfront. National occasions continued to form a core component of the Port’s annual programming. Activities marking Qatar National Sports Day, Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, FIFA Arab Cup activations, and Qatar National Day attracted large numbers of visitors from inside and outside the country, reinforcing Old Doha Port’s role as a central platform for community engagement.At the regional level, Old Doha Port continued to strengthen its network of marina partnerships to enhance regional connectivity for yacht owners, extending collaboration to the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Türkiye. The announcement of an official partnership with Dubai Harbour further strengthened cooperation between the region’s leading maritime destinations. Additionally, a collaboration agreement with JLS Yachts, one of the leading yacht service providers, further expanded the Port’s service offerings in yacht management, brokerage, and chartering.Old Doha Port continued to strengthen its international presence through participation at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025 for the fourth consecutive year, as well as its third participation at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025. At the Monaco Yacht Show, the Port highlighted its advanced infrastructure as one of the region’s newest superyacht marinas, marked its first-time sponsorship of the exhibition, and participated in a high-level panel discussion on innovation in sustainable luxury yachting destinations.Looking ahead, Old Doha Port will continue to advance its portfolio of events and partnerships while adopting innovative solutions that enhance visitor experiences. These efforts align with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy, supporting economic diversification and sustainable tourism growth. 

The Organizing Committee of the 4th GCC Games – Doha 2026 unveiled today the official logo of the Games during a ceremony held at Old Doha Port, in the presence of a number of officials, representatives of sports federations, and members of the media.The official logo of the 4th GCC Games – Doha 2026 draws its inspiration from the palm tree, one of the most prominent symbols rooted in the environment and heritage of the Gulf region. The palm tree reflects the shared values of Gulf societies, including resilience, endurance, generosity, patience, and a deep connection to the land—values that have shaped the Gulf identity across generations.The logo is composed of six palm fronds, representing the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, presented in a contemporary visual style defined by flowing lines that reflect the sporting character of the Games. The harmonious arrangement of the fronds creates a central negative space that forms the number “4”, offering a clear reference to the fourth edition of the GCC Games.**media[395915]**The logo was unveiled through a creative and interactive approach, based on the execution of an artistic mural using a “paint-by-numbers” concept. Attendees and members of the public took part in gradually completing the logo by filling the numbered sections with their designated colors, in a scene that highlighted the importance of community participation and reinforced the concept of collective effort—values that the Games seek to promote.The Qatari capital, Doha, will host the competitions of the 4th GCC Games from 11 to 22 May 2026, with the participation of elite Gulf athletes competing in 18 sporting disciplines, held across nine sports venues.On this occasion, Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Thani, General Director of the 4th GCC Games – Doha 2026 expressed his pride in unveiling the official logo of the Games, affirming that the logo embodies the shared meanings that unite GCC countries and reflects the depth of historical and cultural ties among their peoples.He noted that the logo’s design was the result of a carefully considered vision aimed at translating common Gulf values into a contemporary visual identity, explaining that the choice of the palm frond was deliberate and based on its firmly established symbolism in the region’s heritage, and what it represents in terms of authenticity and cohesion among Gulf states.**media[395916]**He added that the Organizing Committee was keen to ensure that the logo unveiling took place through an interactive and innovative method, allowing the public to participate in the moment of announcement and reflecting the Games’ approach to engaging the community at various stages. He emphasized that this approach aligns with the Games’ message of strengthening bonds among Gulf youth and reinforcing the values of cooperation and collective action through sport.Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid also confirmed that preparations for hosting the Games are progressing in line with the approved plans, drawing on Qatar’s extensive organizational experience in hosting major sporting events. He expressed the Organizing Committee’s aspiration to deliver an outstanding edition of the GCC Games that contributes to the development of Gulf sport and further enhances Doha’s position as a leading destination for hosting regional and international sporting events.

In celebration of Qatar National Day, Old Doha Port will welcome families, residents, and visitors to experience a destination-wide program of heritage-led activities across Mina District and Mina Park, reflecting the Port’s identity as a historic maritime gateway and a living destination rooted in Qatar’s past. The program highlights Old Doha Port’s role in preserving and showcasing Qatar’s maritime heritage, drawing inspiration from the sea, traditional livelihoods, and the community spirit that shaped Doha’s early development. On December 18, visitors can enjoy National Day activations including live demonstrations by traditional craftsmen, Arabic coffee experiences, and performances by a traditional band across Mina District from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, alongside youth-led National Ardah performances from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. These experiences celebrate the values, traditions, and shared heritage that continue to define Qatari identity.At 18:12, the national anthem will be played across Old Doha Port as part of the Government Communications Office’s “One Nation, One Oath” initiative.  The moment will be observed as a unified national tribute, bringing visitors together in reflection and pride.Visitors can also explore the Old Doha installation at Mina Park, which offers a journey through the earliest neighborhoods that shaped the capital. Through detailed models and storytelling, the installation brings to life the architecture, community spirit, and daily rhythms of Doha between the 1930s and 1950s. It reflects how traditions defined life in the farij, offering today’s audiences a deeper connection to the heritage that continues to influence Qatar’s identity.From December 17 to 19, Rasta Festival will animate Mina District with live music, street fashion, culinary showcases, and interactive art. Highlights include a lively color parade, butterfly stilt walkers, colorful drummers, and musical performances by a violinist, saxophonist, and accordion player.  Held daily from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, the festival celebrates movement, creativity, and youth culture in the heart of the waterfront. Together, these National Day activations reflect Old Doha Port’s position as a heritage and maritime destination, where Qatar’s past is experienced through immersive programming and meaningful moments. By bringing heritage to life in a vibrant waterfront setting, the Port continues to connect generations and celebrate the nation’s enduring identity. 

Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025 concluded in spectacular fashion, marking a memorable finale to a landmark second day that drew more than 3,000 spectators at the Old Doha Port. The awards ceremony which followed also delivered a major announcement for the sport’s growing community in Qatar: Polo AlMarsa will officially return for its second edition in 2026.Hosted by Qatar Polo Club, supported by The Social & Sport Contribution Fund DAAM, and presented by Qatar Calendar, Polo AlMarsa Qatar brought together sport, heritage, lifestyle and culture in a unique waterfront setting that reflects both the elegance of polo and the modern vibrancy of Doha. Driven by the Qatar Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture partnership, the event delivered a seamless blend of global equestrian excellence and cultural authenticity.Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani presented the Championship Cup to the victorious Team Lusail, which featured Bader al-Marri, Beltran Laulhe, and Gaston Laulhe, who secured a 6-3 win.His Excellency Saad Ali al‑Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar awarded the runners‑up trophy to Team Doha, which was represented by Abdulaziz al‑Qahtani, Beltran Di Paola, and Marcos Di Paola.Before presenting the Championship Cup, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa took to the stage to honour the juniors, beginning with the Mini Mallet Cup awards. Team Doha Juniors, which had Patrick Clarkin, Elizabeth Clarkin and Milo Mac Donough in their line-up claimed the Mini Mallet Cup with a hard‑fought 1-0 victory over Team Lusail Juniors, which featured Rafa Mac Donough, Vicente Di Paola and Adino Donosa.The day also celebrated outstanding equine performances. The Best Playing Pony from Saturday’s Years of Culture Championship Cup 2025 was Attraccion Fatal, ridden by Pablo MacDonough of Team Buenos Aires. For the Polo Al Marsa Championship Cup, the Best Playing Pony honour went to Tumba, played by Beltran Laulhe.After the success of the event, Ashraf Abuissa said: “The energy across Old Doha Port reflects everything we envisioned when we were planning for Polo AlMarsa. What began as an idea has now become a world-class platform that celebrates Qatar’s culture, creativity, and sporting excellence. The event will return every year, and we hope it will continue to grow bigger and better, helping to develop the sport of polo and encourage the next generation of players.”Commenting on the spirit of cross-cultural collaboration that brought teams from three countries together, HE Mohammed al-Kuwari, Years of Culture Advisor on Latin America, said: “As we celebrate our 2025 partnerships with Argentina and Chile, this polo showcase holds special meaning. Polo’s roots in Argentina and Chile and Qatar’s equestrian heritage reflect shared traditions of horsemanship and craftsmanship. Sport has always been a powerful connector within Years of Culture. It brings people together naturally, creating instant common ground, honouring heritage, and sparking new friendships beyond borders.” 

Old Doha Port capped off Tuesday the third Seabed Cleaning Initiative, underscoring its steadfast commitment to safeguarding the marine environment and amplifying community awareness of sustainable practices. In a statement, the Port highlighted that since its inception in 2023, the initiative has emerged as a core environmental pillar, strategically reinforcing the national agenda's priorities on sustainable development and the preservation of Qatar's ecological resources.This year's initiative witnessed integrated collaboration between certified divers, governmental functionaries, and private-sector partners, within a coordinated operation extending across the entire waterfront of the Port, the statement read.It further pointed out that divers successfully operated to remove accumulated waste from the deep water reaching 6 meters, which included plastic materials, fishing lines, nets, and heavy debris that pose a threat to marine life and navigation safety, noting that the intervention areas were identified based on precise seabed surveys conducted prior to the operation.The initiative has received substantial backing from partners, with the Ministry of Municipality providing operational mechanisms and support, while the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change conducted environmental oversight and provided essential technical guidelines, the statement continued.The statement clarified that ExxonMobil Qatar also undertook the role of strategic contributor, while Tanzifco carried out onsite waste sorting operations and ensured that recyclable materials were directed to the competent authorities, with the Qatari Coast Guard ensuring the safety of divers throughout the seabed cleaning operation.It remarked that the Arab Center for Engineering Studies (ACES) organized workshops and interactive activities for children on sustainability to contribute to strengthening awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. Other key participants included Environmental and Green Energy Services, Athar Alfardan, Alfardan Marine Services, Hai Wash, and Mr. Valet.As such, CEO of the Old Doha Port, Eng Mohamed Abdullah al-Mulla, asserted that this initiative is a testament to the Port's responsibility toward the coastal environment in the State of Qatar, emphasizing that the nation's marine environment constitutes a time-honored part of its national identity and preserving it is a duty on the part of all.This initiative has become an annual landmark with concrete positive impact that corrals the community's enterprises and individuals toward one goal, as long as holding each one of these initiatives reinforces the collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation's natural resources for the generations to come, Al Mulla stressed.Vice President and Manager of Public and Government Affairs at ExxonMobil Qatar, Rashid al-Hajri, underlined that collaboration with the Port in this initiative underscores an all-hands-on-deck approach in protecting the environment and marine life, as well as promoting sustainability for the next generations.Noteworthy, the initiative comes in alignment with the environmental development pillar within Qatar National Vision 2030, which includes a pro-environment appeal for the protection of natural resources and environmental equilibrium, in addition to bolstering environmental governance and societal partnership.Since its launch in 2023, the Initiative has been incrementally expanded, emerging today as one of the Port's core pillars in the long-term sustainability agenda amid plans to enlarge its scope and broaden the engagement of the community members in the years ahead. 

Qatar Sunday kicked off the 2025/26 cruise season at the Old Doha Port, welcoming MSC Euribia, operated by MSC Cruises, carrying 5,000 passengers and a crew of 1,676 members. One of the newest and largest vessels in the MSC fleet, MSC Euribia spans 331m in length and 43m in width, accommodating up to 6,327 guests and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) for cleaner, more sustainable voyages, Mwani Qatar said in its social medial handle X. Throughout the season, which runs until May 2026, the ship will make 22 scheduled calls at The Terminal, managed by Mwani Qatar — reaffirming Qatar's growing prominence as a premier destination on the global cruise tourism map. Last week, a coordination meeting was held as part of the preparations for 2025/26 cruise season, bringing together stakeholders, agents, and tour operators to discuss operational plans and coordination efforts to ensure a successful season and an exceptional visitor experience. Qatar has proven to be one of the most sought after luxury cruise destinations in the Arabian Gulf’s winter cruise season. To support the tremendous growth of the industry, Mwani Qatar plays a key role in the redevelopment of the port and its facilities. Doha port provides a wide range of passenger facilities, including seamless immigration, customs, foreign exchange, taxi and bus stands, city bus tours as well as Qatar Duty Free, cafe, waiting areas for cruise passengers and staff. It also features various tourist information services offered by Qatar Tourism. Relevant Mwani Qatar marine services within the port are offered to the vessels calling at Doha Port, ensuring safe and efficient arrival and departure. Mwani Qatar works closely with Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Interior to develop the cruise industry which has seen a remarkable increase in the passenger arrivals over the years. Qatar's 2024/25 cruise season had welcomed more than 396,000 visitors aboard 87 cruise ships, marking a 5% jump in visitors and a 19% rise in vessel calls against the previous season. Doha Port’s cruise terminal is strategically located minutes away from key attractions such as the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif, optimising the visitor experience by allowing cruise passengers to make the most of their time in the city. Qatar Tourism plans to strengthen its collaborations with more international cruise lines, which is vital for driving further growth in Qatar’s tourism sector and contributing to Qatar’s economic diversification efforts. "Doha has become a prominent cruise destination with varied tourism experiences offered to visitors. From its debut in October 2023 to its grand finale in April 2024, this cruise season has exceeded all expectations breaking the records of visitors and cruise ships from previous seasons. The Grand Cruise Terminal symbolising Qatar's commitment to excellence” Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism had said. Qatar is gaining popularity as a world-class cruise destination in the region as it showcased exceptional tourism capabilities, especially after hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In this regard, efforts are currently underway to attract more cruise lines and travelers in the upcoming seasons.

The second of the Ski Ladies GP1, Ski Division GP1 and Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Championship Motos and the first of the Runabout GP1 Motos for the Old Doha Port Grand Prix of Qatar were held in punishing heat Friday afternoon. A flying Benedicte Drange stormed through the Ski Ladies GP1 field to snatch a vital victory in the second of the Motos. But second-placed Estelle Poret heads into the final heat Saturday with a 15-point lead in the World Championship over defending champion Jasmiin Ypraus. Drange said: “In Moto 1, I had the lead and then my fuel pump broke. I was full speed on the stretch and it broke. I did not finish and it was a heartbreak because I was going for a title. I thought to myself, I will start as nine or 10 in Moto 2 and the championship is not on the line anymore. I needed to bring back my joy of racing. When I had a championship, it was too much pressure. I don’t enjoy it. I went out had fun, did the best I could and had a brilliant start. I swept past half the field and passed Jasmiin on the first lap. Then I took Estelle and Jessica (Chavanne). It was probably the best race I have done in my career. I am super happy and dedicate this victory to my team and my mechanics.” Veteran Kevin Reiterer stormed through to earn Moto 2 success in Ski GP1 after pole-sitter and Moto 1 winner Quinten Bossche shut down on the opening lap and was later disqualified for a course infringement. Third place for Denmark’s Oliver Koch Hansen gave him an 18-point lead over Jéremy Poret to take into the final Mototoday. Reiterer said: “This morning I thought it was going to be easier than Friday but it was up and down like crazy. We had rollers coming in from boats that we weren’t expecting on the straights. We were just taking off. It was really rough, one of the roughest and hardest Motos I have ever done. I got off to an okay start and then Quinten’s boat shut off and he fell back. I tried to pace myself, save some energy and put in some good laps if there was a fight later. Five to seven seconds was a good gap so that you don’t have to worry in the splits.” François Medori headed into the opening Runabout GP1 Moto with a 16-point World Championship advantage over Jeremy Perez but engine issues sidelined the Corsican after he had passed Yousef al-Abdulrazzaq to take the Moto lead. The Kuwaiti regained the advantage to win the Moto only to lose out to Perez near the finish. The Frenchman now takes a nine-point lead over Medori into the final Moto. Triumphant Perez said: “I feel really good. It was a really difficult race. I push and push and György passed me and I passed him again on the last corner. I am happy to win. François was faster than me but we will see. The strategy now will be to get a good start in Moto 2 and try to push and not to lose places. I know that I need to finish four or five so I will manage my race.” Emirati Amer Hawair clinched a lights-to flag second victory in the Runabout GP2 category to put him in a strong position to seal the title at the final race Saturday. Drange flies to Ski Ladies GP1 Moto 2 successMoto 1 winner Estelle Poret knew that a top finish would put her in a superb position to claim the world title on Saturday. She lined up on pole ahead of Naomi Benini, Jasmiin Ypraus, Jessica Chavanne, River Varner and Virginie Morlaes. The cruel engine problem in Moto 1 had pushed title contender Benedicte Drange to the rear of the 10-boat field. Chavanne stormed through to get the hole shot and took the outside split ahead of Poret, Varner, Drange, Ypraus, Benini, Morlaes, Sofie Borgström, Emy Garcia and Janina Johansson. Chavanne maintained her lead through the opening lap but Drange managed to pass Poret and take second position, although, as long as Poret finished the two remaining Motos, Drange was helpless in her quest for the title. Drange then overhauled Chavanne on the second lap and began to edge clear, as Varner managed to overhaul a subdued Ypraus to take fifth. Garcia climbed to seventh at the expense of a struggling Morlaes. Ypraus regained fifth and Garcia moved into sixth with Varner dropping back to seventh heading into lap four. Drange held on to nail the Moto win by 2.398 seconds and picked up 25 invaluable championship points. Poret passed Chavanne to finish second and a resurgent Ypraus snatched third from Chavanne to finish ahead of Benini, Garcia, Varner, Morlaes and Borgström. Varner then incurred a two-lap penalty for course cutting and Benini was docked 40 seconds for lane indiscipline. Benini finished fifth ahead of Morlaes, Borgström and Varner. Moto 2 success in Ski GP1 for Reiterer World champion Quinten Bossche had controlled Moto 1 in the morning and his rewards was pole for Moto 2. He lined up omn the start pontoon ahead of championship leader Oliver Koch Hansen, Jéremy Poret, Kevin Reiterer, Toshi O’Hara, Valentin Dardillat, Morgan Poret, Anthony Beernaut, Alex Barret and Matteo Benini. Poret snatched the hole shot from Reiterer, O’Hara, Koch Hansen and Beernaut after Bossche took a tumble and lost valuable ground on his rivals. He found himself down in 17th of the 19th riders and was faced with another fight back from the rest of the field. Morgan Poret was a non-starter. Reiterer then snatched the lead from Poret and O’Hara but Bossche made another mistake and lost all his momentum. By lap three, Reiterer led from O’Hara, Poret, Koch Hansen and young Yoni Hamelin. Bossche was disqualified for rising in the wrong direction to cap another disastrous Moto for the current champion. Reiterer held on to take the victory by 14.999 seconds from O’Hara and Koch Hansen, who closed in on the world title with 20 precious championship points. His closest title rival Jéremy Poret eventually finished sixth behind Dardillat and the impressive Benjamin Scharff. Beernaut, Matteo Benini, Alex Barret and Ander-Hubert Lauri rounded off the top 10. Perez takes opening Runabout GP1 Moto win after Medori and al-Abdulrazzaq retire Only six of the 23 Runabout GP1 entrants had turned out for the morning’s second free practice with the remaining riders persevering their skis for the opening Moto. Multiple former champion Yousef al-Abdulrazzaq lined up on pole position ahead of series leader François Medori, Jéremy Perez, György Kasza and the high-flying Khalifa Belselah. The Kuwaiti earned the hole shot to stay ahead of Medori, Belselah, Perez, Kasza, Andrzej Wisniewski and Ruben Jimenez Riquelme. Egidijus Kirilevicius and Robin Laforge were non-starters. Al-Abdulrazzaq continued to fend off Medori and actually increased his advantage to over three seconds heading into lap three. Medori was also watchful of his title push. With 15 minutes of the race to run, al-Abdulrazzaq led Medori by just over two seconds with Belselah, Kasza and Perez in the top five. Kasza and Perez then passed the Emirati, who plummeted out of contention and retired on lap five. Linus Lindberg climbed to fifth ahead of Qatar’s Waleed al-Sharshani and Wisniewski with 11 minutes on the clock. Medori snatched the lead on lap eight bur then the Frenchman stuttered to a halt with engine issues and al-Abdulrazzaq regained the lead. The Corsican’s demise threw the title race wide open with Kasza and new virtual championship leader Perez in third. Second successive Asian Runabout GP2 victory for Amer Hawair Emirati Amer Hawair took full advantage of pole position for winning Moto 1. He claimed the hole shot from Qatar’s Mahmoud and Mohamed Abumaali with Saudi Arabia’s Daoud Kaloti holding fourth ahead of Khalaf al-Kuwari and Khalid al-Maazmi at the start of the second Runabout GP2 Asian Continental Moto. Hawair began to pull clear of his rivals and was over six seconds to the good through lap two with the pursuing quintet holding their positions. Kaloti managed to pass Mohamed Abumaali and snatch third place, as Mahmoud Abumaali began to apply the pressure on the leading Emirati. Kaloti managed to pass Mahmoud Abumaali in the closing minutes as well to seal second place, albeit 3.837 seconds behind the triumphant Emirati. Mahmoud Abumaali rounded off the podium positions from al-Maazmi, al-Kuwari and Mohamed Abumaali.

Old Doha Port has successfully concluded a milestone participation at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025, achieving its goal of strengthening Qatar’s presence at global exhibitions, fostering dialogue with international maritime industry experts, and promoting both the Qatar Boat Show 2025 and Old Doha Port as a premier maritime destination in the region. Held from 24–27 September at Port Hercule, it sponsored the prestigious Upper Deck Lounge for the first time and joined global leaders at the Summit program in the closing panel on creating sustainable superyacht destinations. Old Doha Port’s sponsorship of the Upper Deck Lounge placed its brand at the heart of the Monaco Yacht Show’s most exclusive setting. Old Doha Port’s pavilion attracted significant attention with its strategic location in the Upper Deck Lounge and welcomed His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco during his tour of the exhibition. He was received by Eng. Mohammed Abdullah Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, who presented a brief overview of the port’s developmental stages and the objectives of its participation in the Monaco Yacht Show. Recognized as a meeting point for yacht owners, VIPs, and premium lifestyle brands, the lounge offered the Port an opportunity to connect with influential audiences and showcase Qatar’s role in the luxury maritime space. Alongside its sponsorship, Old Doha Port joined the Monaco Yacht Show Summit program in the closing panel on sustainable superyachting. The discussion gathered senior representatives from leading destinations to exchange ideas on how the industry can grow while protecting marine ecosystems, where Old Doha Port shared its approach of combining eco-conscious infrastructure with community-driven initiatives. “Our participation in Monaco reflects Qatar’s vision for a sustainable and diversified future,” said Engineer Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port. “We are demonstrating how world-class facilities, cultural heritage, and environmental responsibility can come together to create lasting value for the global yachting industry.” With this year’s successful presence in Monaco, Old Doha Port continues to elevate Qatar’s profile on the international maritime calendar and reaffirm its commitment to building a destination defined by both sustainability and global connectivity. Old Doha Port - Anchored in Tradition, Sailing into the Future  Once a historic commercial harbor, Old Doha Port is a bustling lifestyle destination that blends Doha’s rich seafaring legacy with innovative marine services, sustainable practices, and cultural depth. Serving as the world’s maritime gateway to Qatar, the centrally located port features a world-class 450-berth marina, a 24/7 operating cruise terminal, the nation’s largest slipway, over 250,000 square meters of greenery, and vibrant cultural spaces like the Mina District and Containers Yard.  With offerings ranging from watersports and cultural experiences to art installations and major events like the annual Qatar Boat Show and fishing competitions, Old Doha Port celebrates Qatar’s legacy while pioneering its maritime future and enhancing its global tourism profile.

Old Doha Port strengthened its international presence as chief executive Mohammed Abdulla al-Mulla joined the closing roundtable of the Monaco Yacht Show Summit 2025 on Friday.The session, titled “How to Create a Sustainable Superyacht Destination?”, convened senior figures from leading yachting hubs to explore how destinations can future-proof their appeal while safeguarding marine ecosystems.Set against the backdrop of the world’s foremost gathering for the superyachting and luxury maritime industries, this year’s summit ran alongside the Monaco Yacht Show at Port Hercule on September 24-27.The programme placed innovation, design, and sustainability at the centre, spotlighting impactful eco-responsible solutions across the sector.As part of its broader presence in the flagship maritime event, Old Doha Port also sponsored the Upper Deck Lounge for the first time, and will continue sponsoring the show for the next two years, underscoring Qatar’s growing role in shaping the future of global yachting.“Taking part in the Monaco Yacht Show Summit affirms Old Doha Port’s role among the world’s leading yachting destinations and allows us to share Qatar’s vision for sustainable growth,” said al-Mulla.“In line with Qatar National Vision 2030, we are building a luxury maritime tourism sector that blends heritage, innovation, and environmental responsibility, supports SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), maritime, and cultural industries, and ensures Qatar has a voice in global conversations shaping the future of superyachting,” he added.

Old Doha Port, in collaboration with Doha Marine Sports Club will host the Aquabike World Championship – Grand Prix of Qatar from October 30 to November 1, 2025, along the Mina Corniche.The event marks the long-awaited return of the world’s premier Aquabike series to Qatar after a decade, positioning Old Doha Port as the new stage for the season finale, the port said Sunday in a statement.The championship finale will bring together elite riders to take part in three days of thrilling events, with widespread international participation from over 21 countries. Riders will compete across several main categories, including:UIM-ABP World Championship (final round), Continental Asia Championship (final round), World Slalom Parallel Championship (round two), and the Continental Asia Runabout GP2 Championship. Set against the backdrop of Doha’s iconic Mina Corniche, the Grand Prix promises three days of exhilarating competition, night freestyle shows, and a spectacular sporting atmosphere that will captivate audiences and elevate Qatar’s global profile as a hub for maritime excellence.“Hosting international sporting events such as the Aquabike World Championship, in collaboration with Doha Marine Sports Club reflects our ongoing commitment to positioning Old Doha Port and Qatar as a leading destination in global maritime tourism,” said Engineer Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port. “And embodies our dedication to promoting sport as a way of life, while highlighting the port’s legacy as a hub that brings together sport, culture, and entertainment.”Khalifa Mohammed Al-Suwaidi, President of the Doha Marine Sports Club, said, "This championship is a key milestone for the Club, and strengthens its position as a leader for marine sports in the region. It is also an opportunity to celebrate Qatar’s maritime heritage and to reinforce its position as a global destination for sports and cultural tourism. We are committed to delivering an exceptional experience to all participants and spectators, and I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to Old Doha Port for providing their invaluable support in making this global event possible.” The Aquabike World Championship marks a significant achievement in Old Doha Port’s journey to become the region’s leading stage for maritime sports, honoring Qatar’s seafaring heritage as well as its rise as one of the world’s prime tourism hubs.