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Msheireb Properties and U Events announced a cultural partnership that will bring the acclaimed Al Jazeera Orchestra & Choir to Barahat Msheireb for a two-night musical premiere. Scheduled on January 15-16 from 8pm-10pm, the Baraha Musical Concert marks a significant milestone in presenting exceptional talent within the heart of Doha’s cultural landscape. U Events has distinguished itself through its dedication to discovering and developing talents bringing forward performers whose exceptional abilities are enriching the capital’s cultural scene. The partnership with Msheireb Properties creates a prestigious venue for these rising artists to showcase their craft alongside established ensembles, celebrating Qatar’s vibrant artistic community. The landmark event will see the orchestra and choir make their highly anticipated debut performance at the iconic city square. Conceptualised and supervised by Sheikh Nayef bin Ali al-Thani, the Al Jazeera Orchestra & Choir was founded with the vision of preserving and elevating the musical heritage of the Arabian Peninsula whilst fostering the next generation of regional talent. The ensemble features a choir of 20 male and 20 female vocalists, accompanied by a full and expressive orchestra. Sheikh Nayef, founder of the Al Jazeera Orchestra & Choir initiative, stated: “The Al Jazeera Orchestra & Choir was born from a passion to celebrate our rich musical heritage whilst creating opportunities for exceptional local talent to shine. “This performance represents not only a celebration of our traditions but also a testament to the remarkable artistic voices emerging from our region.” Dr Hafiz Ali Abdulla, senior director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, stated: “This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to championing talents and presenting world-class cultural experiences in the heart of Doha. “The exceptional work U Events has accomplished in nurturing emerging artists aligns perfectly with our vision for Barahat Msheireb as a stage where Qatar’s creative community can thrive and inspire.” The concert is designed as a sophisticated celebration of Arab musical heritage, combining the grandeur of symphonic music with the inviting, community-focused atmosphere of Barahat Msheireb. The performance follows the ensemble’s critically acclaimed debut concert in October 2025, which celebrated the musical traditions of the Arabian Peninsula and achieved full attendance. The two-hour programme will feature choir renditions of traditional Arabic compositions and classical Arabic instrumental pieces. A fusion set combining Western and Arabic orchestration will showcase the ensemble’s versatility. The Al Jazeera Orchestra & Choir unite the region’s finest musicians, composers, and singers under one harmonious banner. Through U Events’ vision and commitment, this collective has become a platform for preserving, elevating, and innovating the musical traditions of the Arabian Peninsula whilst providing opportunities for exceptional talent to reach wider audiences. 

Magnus Carlsen will once again be the central attraction when the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Championships takes place in Doha from December 26 to 30.The former world champion arrives as the top seed in both the Open Rapid and Open Blitz events, boasting ratings of 2824 and 2881 respectively, and is widely regarded as the favourite to claim at least one title in the Qatari capital. Carlsen shared the Blitz gold at last year’s championships in New York and will be eager to reclaim outright honours.The tournament, which will hosted at the Sports and Events Complex at Qatar University, marks Doha’s return as venue after nine years and features a prize pool exceeding €1mn, attracting the world’s elite. This year’s championships include Open and women’s events in both Rapid and Blitz formats, with 233 players entered in the Blitz Open and 230 competing in the Rapid event.From Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi to Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Arjun Erigaisi, the Open section is stacked with top players – clear favourites on paper, yet facing a hungry field of challengers.Here is a look at the top-rated 10 players in the Open section.Magnus CarlsenMagnus Carlsen arrives in Doha as the top seed in both Open Rapid (2824) and Open Blitz (2881). He won the world rapid crown five times (2014, 2015, 2019, 2022, 2023) and the world blitz as many as eight times (2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024; albeit, the 2024 title is shared with Nepomniachtchi). With 12 total crowns, he is by far the most successful player in blitz and rapid formats.By his own confession, Carlsen is more interested in faster formats than classical chess. He continues to show that in 2025 – winning the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz in Croatia and taking the overall title in the “Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour” and the inaugural Chess Esports World Cup.However, this year’s appearance is different to previous ones at the WRB: Carlsen recently become a father which for most new parents usually means lack of sleep. Whether that will have an impact on his performance remains to be seen.Ian NepomniachtchiIan Nepomniachtchi is the second seed in both rapid and blitz in Doha, with ratings of 2762 and 2801 respectively. The two-time challenger for the title of world champion in classical chess has a collection of “almost victories” at the World Rapid and Blitz, with three silver and two bronze medals from in rapid (including from Warsaw 2021, where he finished second on tiebreak, behind Abdusattorov). He also has a silver medal from the 2014 World Blitz in Dubai.Nepomniachtchi’s biggest success so far is sharing first place in the 2024 World Blitz in New York. Alongside Carlsen, Nepomniachtchi has for years been one of the central figures of the chess world, winning or placing near the top of the biggest events. In Doha he will be one of the main candidates for the crown in both formats.Levon AronianLevon Aronian is seeded third in rapid (2756) and fifth in blitz (2774). The last time he won the World Rapid was in 2009, and the World Blitz in 2010. At 43, he continues to hold his own against the hungry young lions coming up in chess.In 2025 he showed that he can still win the biggest events by defeating Carlsen in the final of the “Freestyle Chess Grand Slam” event in South Africa. With a long record of success in mixed rapid and blitz formats, Aronian is one of the toughest and most experiences competitors in Doha.Fabiano CaruanaFabiano Caruana is the fourth seed in rapid seventh in blitz, both with a rating of 2751. The former candidate for the world crown and five-time US champion, Caruana is a long-time member of the absolute elite of chess. He was among the top scorers in the 2024 WRB, and – when in form – he is extremely difficult to stop.In 2025 he continued to fight for top places in super-tournaments and will be one of the most formidable players in Doha.Maxime Vachier-LagraveSeeded fifth in the rapid (2730), and 11th in blitz (2745), Maxime Vachier- Lagrave is one of the most established stars in fast chess formats. In 2021 he won the World Blitz crown, edging out Jan-Krzysztof Duda in his native Warsaw.With a long list of rapid and blitz titles, France’s long-time number player, MVL has maintained high consistency throughout the years. He will arrive in Doha straight from the Global Chess League in Mumbai, where he leads the team of upGrad Mumbai Masters fighting in season three of the event.Vladislav ArtemievAlthough only 27, Vladislav Artemiev has long been a fixture in elite chess events. The Russian GM has won multiple blitz and rapid titles from Russian championships and strong online events such as the Champions Chess Tour and the Speed Chess Championship.Rapid and blitz formats are Artemiev’s forte. In Samarkand, in 2023, he finished third in the World Blitz – behind Carlsen and Dubov. This is his only World Rapid/Blitz medal so far (having narrowly missed on a medal in blitz in Warsaw). In Doha, he will be looking to change this and secure a medal in either or both formats.Nodirbek AbdusattorovNodirbek Abdusattorov first attracted global attention at the 2019 World Rapid and Blitz in Moscow, where he started the blitz tournament with 5/5 and then held Carlsen to a draw in round six in a very tense game. Since then, he rapidly rose to prominence, as a stellar exponent of Uzbekistan’s growing chess influence.The young Uzbek star has a World Rapid crown, which he won in 2021. He was the youngest ever World Rapid Champion at 17 years and three months. Now Uzbekistan’s biggest chess hope, he is on the rise, willing to take on anyone, hungry and strong, performing strongly wherever he appears.Abdusattorov’s main challenge will be to handle his ambition and steady the nerves as he fights with the old guard.Richard RapportThe Hungarian GM is recognized as one of the most original players at top-level; his games are among the most entertaining. In 2024 at the WRB Teams, he defeated Carlsen in just 23 moves. His best individual finish was eighth in Rapid and ninth in Blitz Championships in 2022. In 2025 Rapport has remained a regular in top invitational and rapid series, consistently delivering exciting games and strong results.Jan-Krzysztof DudaJan-Krzysztof Duda is the ninth seed in rapid (2711) and eighth in blitz (2750).The Polish grandmaster is a former World Cup winner and European Blitz Champion long regarded as one of the most dangerous players in fast controls. In 2025 he has been very active in the Grand Chess Tour rapid and blitz events, finishing high in the standings at both SuperUnited Croatia and the Superbet Poland legs.Arjun ErigaisiIndia’s top-rated player in classical chess arrives in Doha as the number eighth seed on the rapid list (2714) and ninth blitz (2749). In 2025 Erigaisi had a strong showing in several events with fast-paced time controls, including winning all three Chess.com “Freestyle Friday” events. Erigaisi was also part of the gold-medal-winning squad that at the World Rapid Team Chess Championship in London, earlier this year. Coming into Doha, he is seen as one of the leading representatives of India’s new wave in fast chess.Daniil DubovDaniil Dubov is third on the blitz seeding list with 2795 points and just outside the top ten in rapid. A former World Rapid Champion, Dubov claimed the title in 2018 in Saint Petersburg, finishing unbeaten with 11 points out of 15. Known as a sharp thinker both on and off the board Dubov is very popular among chess fans – his games and comments on chess are widely watched. A regular in online elite events, Dubov has also been picked up by esports organisation Team Spirit for the 2025 Chess Esports World Cup, cementing his reputation as a speed-chess specialist.Wesley SoWesley So is fourth on the blitz list with a rating of 2790 and among the rapid top twenty in Doha. The U.S. grandmaster has a long record of success in rapid and blitz, from winning the 2020 St Louis Rapid & Blitz to taking the first Chess.com Global Championship, and he remains one of the most solid players in all time formats. In 2025 he added another major title by winning the Sinquefield Cup after a playoff with Caruana and Praggnanandhaa, showing once again his strength under match and tiebreak pressure.Oleksandr BortnykOleksandr Bortnyk completes the blitz top ten in Doha, with an Elo rating of 2748. With multiple victories in Title Tuesday and Bullet Brawl on Chess.com, Bortnyk is recognised as one of the most dangerous players in blitz chess. Still, online and over-the-board are not the same. It is quite different when you play in the solitude of your own home compared to a crowded chess arena. Not being a regular at top events, unlike most other players on this list, means Bortnyk has less experience in the spotlight. Yet his underdog status in Doha may give him an extra boost. 

Qatar is rapidly establishing itself as a major cultural and entertainment hub for expatriates, hosting an increasing number of high-profile concerts, live shows, and cultural performances tailored to its diverse resident population.With expatriates making up the majority of Qatar’s population, the nation’s entertainment landscape is evolving to reflect the cultural tastes and artistic traditions of its global communities—particularly those from India.One of the most talked-about events in recent months was Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s performance in Doha, headlining the spectacular Da-Bangg The Tour Reloaded at the Asian Town Amphitheatre in November 2025. Joined by film stars including Jacqueline Fernandez, Tamannaah Bhatia, and legendary dancer-choreographer Prabhu Deva, the show delivered an unforgettable mix of music, dance, comedy, and cinematic flair. **media[394506]**“For us, this was like watching a Filmfare-style show right here in Doha,” said Rajesh Kumar, an Indian expatriate who has lived in Qatar for over a decade. “Back home, getting tickets for Salman Khan shows is extremely difficult. Seeing him perform live here felt unreal.”The excitement continued with Vedan Live in Qatar last week, which drew large crowds for a night of high-energy music and electrifying performances. Fans filled the venue, singing and dancing throughout the evening. Vedan, whose real name is Hirandas Murali, is a prominent rapper and songwriter from Kerala and a recent winner of the Kerala State Film Award for Best Lyricist. He enjoys a devoted fan base among Keralites worldwide.“I’ve attended concerts in Kerala, but the vibe here was just as powerful,” said Anjali, a young professional from Kerala. “For expats like us, these shows give a sense of home and community. It’s more than entertainment—it’s emotional.”Over the past year, Qatar has hosted a steady stream of South Indian movie stars, Bollywood performers, and regional music icons, offering expatriates rare access to cultural experiences they often miss while living abroad. For many, traveling back home specifically for concerts or cultural shows is neither affordable nor practical.“Living overseas means you miss out on many cultural moments,” said Mohammed Irfan, another expat from Kerala. “When artists from our region perform here, it bridges that gap and makes life abroad feel more complete.”Event organisers say Qatar’s growing appeal lies not only in audience demand but also in the country’s world-class infrastructure and efficient logistics.“Qatar offers everything an international production needs—modern venues, strong technical support, and a very responsive audience,” said a Doha-based event organiser. “Indian expats here are passionate and eager to attend live shows, which makes Doha an important destination on global tour calendars.”Another promoter highlighted the ease of operations and digital accessibility. “The online ticketing system works seamlessly, and venues are well-connected and easy to reach,” said another Doha-based event manager. “From parking to security, the overall experience is smooth, which encourages repeat attendance.” **media[394505]**Audience members have echoed these sentiments, praising the convenience and organisation of events. “Buying tickets online was simple, and the venue was close to where we live,” said Suresh Nair, a long-time Doha resident. “Everything—from entry to seating—was well managed.”Looking ahead, organisers confirm that many more concerts and cultural shows are lined up for the coming year, spanning Bollywood, South Indian cinema, comedy acts, and traditional performances.“The demand is only growing,” an organiser added. “Qatar is no longer just a stopover—it has become a destination where artists want to perform and audiences eagerly respond.”As Qatar continues to invest in cultural infrastructure and inclusive entertainment programming, it is steadily transforming into a regional crossroads for global artistic expression. For expatriates, these live events offer more than star-studded performances—they provide a sense of belonging, nostalgia, and shared identity, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a true home away from home. 

His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani chaired the first meeting of the Board of Directors of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance integration among State institutions and ensure Qatar's continued readiness to host major global events with the highest efficiency.The meeting of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, along with accompanying organizational measures, reflects Qatar's commitment to building on the unique legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and subsequent major events. These achievements demonstrated the country's advanced infrastructure, strengthened its capacity to host global events according to the highest standards, nurtured skilled national talent, and developed professional institutional expertise. The Board of Directors also discussed its forthcoming responsibilities, including overseeing the policies and strategies of the Supreme Committee, ensuring alignment of its work with the national events framework, enhancing infrastructure readiness, and monitoring the implementation of operational and organizational programs to support the Committee's pivotal role in efficiently hosting major events. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Board emphasized the importance of continuing to work according to the highest international standards and leveraging the accumulated legacy of expertise and infrastructure to reinforce Qatar's position and reputation as a global hub for hosting major events. 

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

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

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

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

As August draws to a close, Qatar is set to host cultural, industrial, and professional development events in September, offering diverse opportunities for learning, networking, and innovation.At the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)’s Education Centre, the final session of the Kufic Intermediate Workshop will be held Wednesday. This specialised course, led by Hussein Ammar Ahmed, provides participants with hands-on experience in reproducing the distinctive Kufic calligraphy style, known for its bold, geometric letterforms that often resonate with modern aesthetics.Building upon its earlier August 13 and 20 sessions, the workshop has catered to intermediate learners, offering a deeper dive into the script’s nuances and vocabulary, ideal for those who have previously engaged with beginner calligraphy courses.The Qatar National Library (QNL) celebrates the conclusion of its month-long Summer Camp also Wednesday. Launched on July 1, the camp delivered a stimulating environment for children and teens, fostering creativity, learning, and fun designed to spark imagination and inspire young minds.The industrial and entertainment sectors are set to take centre stage in the early days of September. From September 2-4, the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) will host the Print Pack Sign Show (PPSS).Dubbed as Qatar’s flagship platform for the printing, packaging, signage, and labelling industries, organisers said PPSS promises to be a comprehensive showcase of leading technologies and innovative materials, uniting key industry players.Also from September 2-4, the Qatar Event Show (QES) will bring together more than 50 exhibitors and over 2,000 delegates at DECC, highlighting the nation’s dynamic events and entertainment industry. This premier B2B exhibition is set to bring together the best of the events and MICE sector, offering a rich programme of a world-class exhibition, insightful conferences, interactive workshops, and vital networking opportunities.Artistic exploration continues on September 3 at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art with the Action Model Drawing Workshop. Following highly successful previous dates in May, June, and July, this workshop offers participants an engaging experience that combines observation and action, allowing them to discover the dynamic world of contemporary artistry. Future sessions are already scheduled for October 1 and November 26.Musical enthusiasts are anticipating the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s (QPO) opening concert of its 2025/26 season on September 4 at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Led by conductor Elias Grandy, the evening will be a tribute to the works of Robert Schumann. The programme is set to feature the Genoveva Overture, Piano Concerto in A minor performed by internationally acclaimed pianist Zee Zee, and Schumann’s Symphony No. 2 in C major, a piece celebrated for its emotional depth and triumphant spirit.From September 9-10, the JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha will host the 2nd annual “Digital Talent Ecosystem Dialogue”, a gathering aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 that will convene C-Suite and HR leaders from various sectors, including government, academia, and industry. According to the organisers, this dialogue aims to foster collaboration for building a robust digital talent ecosystem, exploring digital transformation trends, workforce development strategies, artificial intelligence use cases, and innovative HR practices.Discussions will be spearheaded by representatives from key entities such as the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Qatar Financial Centre, Kahramaa, Snoonu Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation, and Aspetar, providing actionable insights for shaping Qatar’s digital future.The month will close with a strong emphasis on sports and healthcare as the Ladies Sports Hall at Aspire Zone hosts the fifth annual Seashore Phoenix Games, a competition dedicated to functional fitness, from September 25-29. The Men’s Competition is scheduled for September 25-27, followed by the Women’s Competition, a private event, from September 28-29. The games will feature various categories, including Individual RX (Men and Women), Teams of 3 (Men), Masters Men 40+, and Team of 2 (Women), including a Rookie category.Concluding September and extending into early October, the DECC will host the Qatar Medicare from September 30-October 2, under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health. This year the event is expanding with the launch of the Beauty and WellCare Show.