tag

Aid flotilla of 50 vessels attacked overnight by dronesConvoy aims to deliver aid and break Israel's Gaza blockadeItaly sends navy ship to offer assistance, condemns attackOnboard radios jammed with "very loud ABBA music", witness saysIsrael says it will not allow any breach of the blockadeAn international aid flotilla trying to deliver aid to Gaza said on Wednesday it was attacked overnight by drones in international waters off Greece, prompting Italy to send a navy ship to come to its assistance. The Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) is using about 50 civilian boats to try and break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza, with many lawyers and activists onboard, including Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg.The vessels were attacked by 12 drones in international waters 30 nautical miles (56 km) off the Greek island of Gavdos, said Marikaiti Stasinou, a spokesperson for March to Gaza Greece, which is part of the flotilla.All passengers are safe after drones exploded over the vessels, she told Reuters.GSF said the attack affected 11 vessels and blamed Israel and its allies for "explosions, unidentified drones and communications jamming," saying it would not be intimidated and would continue to sail.Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said in a statement the sea convoy had been targeted by "currently unidentified perpetrators". He expressed the "strongest condemnation" of the incident.He ordered the Italian multi-purpose frigate Fasan, previously sailing north of Crete, to head towards the flotilla "for possible rescue operations", focusing primarily on Italian citizens.The GSF called on other nations to "ensure and facilitate effective protection, including (with) maritime escort, accredited diplomatic observers, and an overt protective State presence. Italy has now taken a first step in this direction.""The drones that have been following us for days have detonated an explosive device, knocking off the boat's jib, and we're at risk of the mast falling," said Stefano Bertoldi, an Italian activist with the climate group "Ultima Generazione" (Last Generation) that is sailing in the flotilla.Bertoldi issued several maydays as the explosions rang out, Last Generation said in a statement.Crosetto expressed "the strongest condemnation" of the "attack" by "currently unidentified perpetrators".Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said he had asked Israel to ensure the safety of "Italian citizens, along with members of parliament and MEPs".He has already informed Israel that "any operation entrusted to Israeli forces must be conducted in compliance with international law and the principle of absolute caution," the ministry said in a statement.Tajani has also asked the Italian Embassy in Tel Aviv to "reiterate its previous request to the Israeli government to guarantee the absolute protection of the personnel on board," it said.The Greek coastguard told AFP that a patrol boat from the EU borders agency Frontex had approached one vessel and saw no evidence of damage.Contacted at its Warsaw headquarters, Frontex could not immediately confirm or deny the incident.Italy's anti-establishment Five Star Movement, which has a senator on one of the boats, called on the EU "to intervene immediately to defend the vessels flying the flags of member states" by providing "protection and maritime escort through the deployment of Frontex vessels".Israel has repeatedly criticised the flotilla, accusing its activists of complicity with the Hamas.On Wednesday, the foreign ministry repeated an invitation for the flotilla to drop humanitarian aid in an Israeli port, leaving it to Israeli authorities to take it to Gaza, or else face consequences."Israel will not allow vessels to enter an active combat zone and will not allow any breach of the lawful naval blockade," a ministry statement said.It made no comment on whether it was responsible for the drones.Earlier this month, the flotilla blamed Israel for other drone strikes on its boats while they were moored in a Tunisian port. Israel did not respond to those accusations.The drones came in the middle of the night dropping stun grenades and itching powder, damaging the sails of some boats, according to two leftist Italian members of the European Parliament aboard the flotilla.Before the attack, onboard radios started playing "very loud ABBA music," Annalisa Corrado of the Democratic Party said in a video message. "We thought it was a joke, but no, it was the first act of intimidation, to tell us they were close enough to get into our radio systems."The attack lasted around three hours until 4 am local time (0100 GMT), Benedetta Scuderi of the Greens-European Free Alliance group told Italian public radio RAI.A Greek coastguard official told Reuters that members of the flotilla contacted them around 2 am (2300 GMT) to inform them of the incident. When approached by the European Union's border agency Frontex, however, the flotilla said it did not require assistance, the official added.In Brussels, a European Commission spokeswoman said "any use of force against the flotilla is not acceptable", adding that "we totally understand" the activists' desire to raise awareness about the situation in Gaza.

At least ten vessels of the "Global Sumud Flotilla", which seeks to break the blockade on the Gaza Strip, came under repeated drone attacks in the Mediterranean Sea, organizers said.Explosions were reported and communications on board were severely disrupted, though no casualties have been confirmed so far.Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories, said seven drone attacks struck the flotilla after about 15 aircraft flew overhead, stressing the urgent need for international protection.The flotilla's organizing committee said unidentified objects were dropped on ten boats, causing material damage, while 13 explosions were recorded nearby.It accused Israel of conducting a media disinformation campaign to justify potential military action against the humanitarian convoy, warning that targeting it would amount to a war crime and a flagrant violation of international law.The Global Sumud Flotilla comprises humanitarian workers, doctors, artists, and activists from 44 countries. It departed Tunisia earlier this month after several delays, with the aim of establishing a humanitarian corridor and breaking the blockade imposed on Gaza for more than 23 months. Israel previously intercepted similar sea-borne attempts to reach Gaza in June and July.

The State of Qatar participated in the High Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South Countries, held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Qatari delegation to the meeting was headed by His Excellency Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi.

The Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah International Energy Awards for Lifetime Achievement will take place in October, with preparations now well advanced for this landmark event.Organised by the Al-Attiyah Foundation, the Awards recognise outstanding individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing the global energy industry. Six distinguished industry leaders will be honoured for their lifetime achievements.The Awards embody the vision and legacy of HE Abdullah bin Hamad al- Attiyah, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Industry, whose leadership helped shape Qatar’s position as a global energy leader.The 2025 ceremony and gala dinner is sponsored by ExxonMobil, and will bring together over 300 senior executives, policymakers, and thought leaders from across the global energy landscape.Since its establishment in 2015, the Al-Attiyah Foundation has provided trusted analysis and insights into the most pressing challenges and opportunities in energy and sustainable development, through its research publications, CEO Roundtables, podcasts, webinars and regular events.The Foundation’s achievements and growth are made possible by its esteemed member organisations, which include some of the world’s most influential companies: QatarEnergy, Qatar Electricity & Water Co., Woqod, QNB, QatarEnergy LNG, Dolphin Energy, Qatar Shell, QAPCO (Qatar Petrochemical Company), Marubeni, ConocoPhillips, QAFCO (Qatar Fertiliser Company), Sasol, Q-Chem, Gulf Helicopters, Qatar Cool, and JTA Holding.

His Excellency President of the 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and former High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al-Nasr, affirmed that the State of Qatar plays an active role and has become a key player in peace and development within the United Nations system.His Excellency noted that the speeches of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani before the General Assembly were comprehensive and expressed clear positions that reflect Qatar's commitment to peace and the strengthening of international cooperation, underscoring its active presence in various global issues.In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Al Nasr explained that His Highness the Amir's speeches focused on three main messages in light of current international challenges, particularly the escalation of conflicts, the worsening impacts of climate change, and ongoing food and health security crises.The first message, he said, was a call for calm, preventive diplomacy, and the rejection of the logic of force in resolving disputes -- especially in volatile regions and countries experiencing wars and conflicts.HE Al Nasr added that His Highness the Amir consistently reiterates Qatar's firm position on the need to halt ongoing violations against the Palestinian people, support their just rights and aspirations, and reject all forms of occupation, particularly in the Gaza Strip. He stressed the importance of returning to the 1967 United Nations resolutions, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.In this regard, His Excellency emphasized that the continued occupation and bloodshed require urgent international action, pointing out that His Highness the Amir's speeches consistently call for halting Israeli violations, rejecting attempts to impose a fait accompli, ending the siege, stopping aggressive operations, and halting settlement expansion.HE Al Nasr said that the second message centered on the importance of multilateral action and strengthening the role of the United Nations as a unifying platform for achieving peace and sustainable development, at a time of mounting challenges and an urgent need to activate the role of the international organization.The third message, he noted, highlighted Qatar's commitment to the issues of the developing world, particularly in supporting development efforts, education, and youth empowerment. These priorities, he said, are areas where Qatar has demonstrated active engagement through pioneering national initiatives and institutions.The UNGA 66 President commended Qatar's distinguished position within the UN system, noting that its presidency of the 76th Session and assumption of numerous responsibilities as a permanent member of the organization reflect the country's remarkable development in recent years and its emergence as a key player in peace, security, and sustainable development.He further pointed out that Qatar's hosting of major international conferences and its humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives have strengthened its image as an influential and responsible state, regionally and globally, and contributed effectively to advancing the purposes of the UN Charter.On UN reform, His Excellency Al Nasr stressed that it has become an urgent necessity, particularly with regard to the Security Council and other responsibilities of the international organization. He considered Qatar well-placed to contribute to this process by supporting negotiating tracks for reform to make the Council more representative and just, while encouraging greater participation of developing countries in UN decision-making. He also highlighted Qatar's support for innovative partnerships between the UN, the private sector, and think tanks, within the framework of initiatives spearheaded by institutions such as Silatech, Education Above All, and Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development.Concluding his remarks to QNA, HE Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al Nasr expressed pride in Qatar's growing role in the international system, voicing hope that its participation in the upcoming session of the UN General Assembly would continue the path of excellence and leadership it has pursued at both regional and international levels.

Pearl GTL, the world’s largest gas-to-liquids facility, has been officially recognised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as a member of its prestigious Global Lighthouse Network. This milestone marks the first time a Qatari facility has received this honour, placing Pearl GTL among a select group of industrial sites globally that are leading the way in deploying Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies at scale.Pearl GTL is operated by Shell on behalf of the State of Qatar, represented by QatarEnergy., and this recognition reflects the strength of their long-standing partnership.The facility has delivered measurable improvements in reliability, emissions reduction, and operational efficiency through the deployment of over 45 advanced digital solutions, including AI-driven predictive analytics, digital twin platforms and real-time integrity monitoring.The site exemplifies how digital transformation can drive significant progress in operational excellence, cost efficiency, safety and environmental performance, demonstrating the tangible value of embracing next-generation technologies in large-scale industrial settings.QatarEnergy has played a pivotal role in enabling this transformation. Its strategic oversight and commitment to innovation have ensured that Pearl GTL not only meets but exceeds global benchmarks for sustainable energy production.In recent years, Shell has brought its digital innovation capabilities to the venture. Pearl GTL is the culmination of Shell’s global experience and digital transformation strategy, and it has been recognised internally as an aspirational asset, earning Shell’s Asset of the Year accolades two years in a row and Digital Asset of the Year in 2023.“This recognition marks a significant milestone for Pearl GTL and underscores the exceptional partnership between Shell and QatarEnergy,” said Rob Maxwell – Managing Director and Chairman of Shell Companies Qatar. “Being named to the Global Lighthouse Network demonstrates how the large-scale adoption of digital technologies can transform operational efficiency, reliability and environmental performance. This achievement shows what can be accomplished through the practical application of advanced innovation in the energy sector.”In recent years, Qatar has made significant progress in promoting and adopting advanced technologies across industries. In 2024, the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) in Qatar was established to support the acceleration of digital transformation and foster innovation across key sectors. Launched in collaboration the Ministry of Finance and the World Economic Forum, it serves as a platform for co-designing and piloting future-focused policy frameworks that enable the development and deployment of 4IR technologies in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.“At the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we congratulate QatarEnergy and Shell on their recognition as a Global Lighthouse Site,” said Dr. Abdulaziz Khalid Al-Ali – Director of C4IR Qatar. “This achievement exemplifies the transformative impact of digital innovation and strategic collaboration in advancing sustainable energy solutions in Qatar. Pearl GTL is an example of what can be accomplished when visionary leadership and cutting-edge technology come together. Not only does this milestone set new standards for industrial advancement, but it also reinforces the State of Qatar’s position as a regional and global leader in technological innovation and sustainable energy production.”As a leading asset within both Shell and Qatar, Pearl GTL stands at the forefront in applying Industry 4.0 technologies on a large scale, setting new benchmarks for technological advancement and innovation in the energy sector.Launched in 2018, the Global Lighthouse Network brings together and celebrates the success of the world’s leading industrial sites which achieved exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience, customer centricity, sustainability and talent. This global community of influential innovators, deploying over 1,000 solutions in multiple industries, includes 201 sites, 27 of which have a distinction in sustainability. The network now spans over 30 countries and 35 sectors. Kiva Allgood, Managing Director and Head of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains, World Economic Forum, said, “Congratulations to the new Lighthouse cohort that demonstrates how forward-thinking companies across industries and segments are putting this vision into action, setting a new global standard for operational excellence and impact.”

Malaysia is intensifying efforts to expand halal trade with economies in the Middle East, positioning its halal industry as a global economic model that emphasises trust, quality, and shared cultural values, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Abdul Aziz has said.The minister made the statement during the recent launch of the Global Halal Summit (GHAS) 2025, where Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim spoke on the importance of the Southeast Asian nation’s role in promoting the halal industry through events like the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025, which concluded Saturday in Kuala Lumpur.Speaking at the launch event, held in conjunction with MIHAS 2025, Aziz stated: “...by catalysing Asean’s FTA negotiations with Australia, China, India, the GCC, and many others, Malaysia is effectively starting to build interoperable halal value chains across Asean, the Middle East, and even Africa. “Underscoring Malaysia’s leadership in forging a South-South trade ecosystem, Aziz said the ministry has pushed for the internationalisation of MIHAS, which made its debut in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) via ‘[email protected] pointed out that MIHAS@Dubai helped in providing access for Malaysian businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMES) to markets across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.Aziz announced that the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) will be organising the next international edition of MIHAS in Shanghai, China, under the MIHAS@Shanghai initiative this coming November.“MIHAS@Shanghai will bridge gaps, open access to multi-billion-ringgit markets, as well as enhance multilateral trade and investment. It will also elevate Malaysia and Asean’s position as the preferred halal trading partner and production hub in the Asian region,” he explained.Aziz also said: “By expanding halal trade, Malaysia is not only capturing value from a fast-growing global sector, but also hedging against volatility in traditional commodities, while reinforcing our role as a bridge between the Muslim world and global markets.“...at a time when geoeconomic competition is driving nations to secure resilient and diversified supply chains, halal offers Malaysia a strong edge that can anchor our SMEs and exporters in new growth markets across Asean, the Middle East and Africa.”In a keynote speech at the launch of GHAS 2025, the prime minister announced that Malaysia is leveraging its leadership in the halal economy as a strategic tool of economic diplomacy, underscoring the country’s 11-year reign atop the Global Islamic Economy Indicator (GIEI).“Malaysia’s excellence is particularly evident in Islamic finance, halal food, as well as media and recreation. This is a result of the government’s concerted effort to position the halal industry as one of the central pillars of the nation’s strategic growth,” Ibrahim said, citing the Halal Industry Master Plan (HIMP) 2030 and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 as clear pathways “to position Malaysia as the world’s leading halal hub.”He added: “Under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP), significant funds are allocated to further boost the growth of the halal sector. In return, the sector is projected to contribute RM231bn or 10.8% to the national GDP by 2030, driven by strong demand in food, finance and tourism. By way of comparison, the global halal market is valued at over RM16.02tn and is expected to reach RM22.88tn by 2030.

The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Public Health, is set to host the Sixth Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit, which will take place in Doha on 30 September and 1 October 2025, under the theme "Transforming Mental Health through Investment, Innovation and Digital Solutions".The summit will witness broad participation from health ministers, experts, and specialists worldwide, alongside international organisations concerned with mental health.The ministerial summit will feature a rich programme of sessions and events, including two panel discussions, six workshops and several accompanying activities. During these events, officials, policymakers, and specialists will discuss pressing mental health issues and formulate strategies to address them globally. The summit will host a total of 64 local and international speakers.The summit addresses mental health as an integral part of public health, social justice, and human rights, in line with the United Nations Human Rights Council resolution on mental health and human rights, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.Chair of the Organising Committee for the Sixth Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit, Dr. Salih Ali Al Marri emphasized the vital importance of the summit in advancing mental health at the global level, particularly by focusing on investment, innovation, and digital solutions.Dr. Al Marri stated: "The Sixth Ministerial Summit builds upon the achievements of previous summits and features a comprehensive agenda and global partnerships to ensure the challenges facing mental health worldwide are addressed"."It draws from outstanding experiences to ensure that all people, everywhere without exception, have easy access to effective and sustainable mental health services," he stressed.Qatar's hosting of the summit also supports national efforts to implement the State's Third National Development Strategy and to strengthen public health.Director of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health at the World Health Organization (WHO), Devora Kestel, commented: "WHO greatly looks forward to the Sixth Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit being hosted this year by the Government of Qatar, and to joining the conversation on a range of critical topics for mental health, including service delivery innovation, digitisation, telehealth, and web-based technologies"."In a rapidly evolving world, it is vital to learn about and practice new approaches and ways of working that can better meet the needs of those we serve," she added.Chief Executive of United for Global Mental Health, Sarah Kline, highlighted that the summit's timing, coming just days after the UN High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, makes it an exceptional opportunity to confirm the practical steps nations will take to improve mental health for all.Kline added: "As Secretariat of the Global Mental Health Action Network, we are pleased to be working closely with so many stakeholders in preparing conversations on tackling stigma, reducing suicide rates, addressing the needs of young people, and strengthening mental health organisations to deliver services and support."The summit seeks to facilitate the exchange of best practices and success stories across regions and contexts, and to discuss actionable strategies to improve the implementation of community-based mental health models, particularly through digital solutions.The event will also develop a global resolution on mental health and promote investment in mental health research and innovation.The Sixth Ministerial Summit aims to build upon the achievements of previous summits held in London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome and Buenos Aires. Past summits have consistently called for integrating mental health into public policy and highlighted the global commitment to mental health. This aligns with other global initiatives, including the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the High-Level Commission on Noncommunicable Diseases, and the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030.Qatar's summit hosting affirms its steadfast commitment to promoting mental health as a core component of sustainable human development and to leveraging innovation and modern technologies to ensure mental health services are accessible to all.

Qatar's Barzan project has contributed to the Middle East region's natural gas production growth last year, according to International Gas Union in its 2025 Global Gas Report.Commissioned in 2022, the Barzan facility supplies pipeline gas to local industries and Qatar’s power generation sector. It also supplies associated hydrocarbon products to local refineries and petrochemical industries and international markets.According to QatarEnergy, the facility can provide 1.4 BSCFD of sales gas to local power generation and water desalination plants as well as local industries.In addition, Barzan has the production capacity to supply ethane, condensate, LPG and sulphur for local markets and export.Further increases are expected in 2025, with Saudi Arabia’s production projected to rise by 8 bcm, as the first phase of Jafurah field – the country’s largest unconventional natural gas development – is expected to begin operations before the end of the year.The development of Saudi Arabia’s gas resources aligns with national plans to replace up to 1 mmbbl/d of oil with natural gas in the power generation sector and to support the expansion of petrochemicals, blue hydrogen and ammonia production.In the Middle East, natural gas production growth was recorded across all major oil and gas producers in 2024, with the UAE leading the increase with a gain of 7bcm, IGU noted.Natural gas supply grew by 65 bcm (1.6%) y-o-y in 2024, reaching 4,090 bcm, driven by significant production gains in the Middle East (+30 bcm, 4.4%) and Russia (+30 bcm, 5.1%).These increases were supported by marginal growth in Asia (+17 bcm, 2.5%), and North America (+5 bcm, 0.4%), which collectively offset declines in other regions.This growth was supported by a 9bcm increase in global liquefaction capacity. In the US, capacity expanded with the year-end startup of Plaquemines LNG.Congo became an LNG exporter with the commissioning of Congo FLNG, while Mexico – still a net importer – exported its first cargo to Europe from the new Altamira FLNG facility, IGU said.

GSF reports second drone attack on boat in Tunisian watersTunisian authorities deny first attack, no comment on secondGFS organiser accuses Israel of conducting the attack, Israeli military did not commentFlotilla supported by 44 countries, includes Greta ThunbergThe Global Sumud Flotilla, an international aid initiative to deliver vital supplies to Gaza, said on Wednesday that one of its boats was attacked by a drone at a Tunisian port, the second such strike in two days. The GSF, which is seeking to break Israel's naval blockade and deliver humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza using civilian boats, said in a statement that all passengers and crew were unharmed. GSF reported the first attack on Tuesday, saying one of its vessels had been struck by a drone in Tunisian waters at the Sidi Bou Said port, reports Tunisian authorities said were false.A Tunisian Coast Guard spokesperson did not respond to a call from Reuters on Wednesday.One of the flotilla's organisers accused Israel of carrying out the attack."Israel continues to breach international law and terrorise us. We will sail to break the blockade on Gaza no matter what they do," Saif Abukeshek, a member of the GSF steering committee, told Reuters.The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment.The flotilla posted a video on Instagram of the alleged attack, showing a luminous object hitting the boat and fire erupting on board. Reuters was not immediately able to verify the video.Following the strike, hundreds gathered near the port, where the flotilla's boats were located at the time of the incident, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against Israel and the United States.The group said that the British-flagged Alma sustained fire damage to its top deck and an investigation was underway.Several ambulances rushed to the port, while a Reuters witness reported coastguard boats near the Alma.The flotilla is supported by delegations from 44 countries, including Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and Portuguese left-wing politician Mariana Mortagua.Israel has maintained the blockade on the coastal enclave since Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007.Israel sealed off Gaza by land in early March, letting in no supplies for three months, leading to the widespread shortage of food. Israel has said Hamas was diverting the aid.Multiple rights experts and scholars say Israel's military assault on Gaza amounts to genocide.In June, Israeli naval forces boarded and seized a British-flagged yacht carrying Thunberg, among others. Israel dismissed the aid ship as a propaganda stunt in support of Hamas."These repeat attacks come during intensified Israeli aggression on Palestinians in Gaza, and are an orchestrated attempt to distract and derail our mission. The Global Sumud Flotilla continues undeterred," the GSF said.

Al Faisal Global Foundation for Culture and Knowledge and Al Faisal Publishing House have launched a new book titled "Hunting Memories: From a Necessity of Life to a Hobby's Delight" by HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani.The book will be released on the margins of the 9th Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S'hail 2025), organized by the Cultural Village Foundation -Katara from Sept. 10 to 14.The 446-page volume is divided into eight substantive chapters brimming with real-life stories and vivid recollections. It includes a rich archive of photographs that capture adventures, risks, rare moments, and amusing episodes, making it both a visual and literary chronicle of hunting life.The work distills the essence of Sheikh Faisal's human and heritage-driven experience in hunting and falconry expeditions that spanned Qatar's wilderness and extended across the globe.It documents the historical transformation of hunting from a survival necessity in the past to a present-day sport and recreational pursuit embraced by falconers and enthusiasts throughout Qatar and the Gulf.HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani stated that he sought to document in this book what he saw, heard, and lived across more than 100 hunting and falconry journeys at home and abroad, in order to preserve this enduring legacy for future generations and for all those interested in the Qatari communities, as well as the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula.His Excellency highlighted the nation's sustained efforts to preserve heritage through numerous institutions, initiatives, and exhibitions. He stressed that launching the book at this renowned exhibition reflects Qatar's mission and stature as a prominent regional and international destination for hunting and falconry enthusiasts.He applauded the organizers for maintaining the exhibition's standing until it evolved into a global platform bringing together falconers, hobbyists, and experts from around the world under one roof.The record turnout at this event across all age groups, particularly among young people and children, was a driving force behind the book's conception. He underlined that hunting has always been, and remains, a school of patience, responsibility, and self-reliance, and a cornerstone of Qatari and Gulf identity.His Excellency expressed hope that the book would serve as a reference for future generations and contribute to human knowledge, encapsulating the balance Qatar has achieved, with both leadership and people, between embracing modernity and opening the aperture of engagement with the world, while safeguarding its heritage through the timeless practice of hunting, passed down faithfully from one generation to the next.

Al Faisal Global Foundation for Culture and Knowledge, in collaboration with Al Faisal Publishing, will launch a new book by H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani entitled “Memories of Falconry: From Survival Necessity to Hobbyist Pleasure.” The launch will take place during the Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S’hail 2025), held at Katara Cultural Village from September 10 to 14. The book presents Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim’s rich personal and cultural journey across more than 100 falconry expeditions in Qatar and abroad. It documents the historic transformation of falconry—from a vital means of survival in the past, when people relied on trained falcons and Saluki dogs to hunt houbara, rabbits, and gazelles, to today’s pursuit of sport, leisure, and tradition cherished by falconers and enthusiasts across Qatar and the wider Gulf region. “I sought in this book to record what I have witnessed, heard, and lived through in over a hundred falconry journeys within and beyond Qatar, with the aim of preserving this authentic heritage for future generations, as well as for all those interested in the culture of Qatar, the Gulf, and the Arabian Peninsula,” said Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim. He praised the efforts of the State, under the guidance of its wise leadership, in safeguarding national heritage through numerous institutions, initiatives, and exhibitions. “Launching the book during S’hail aligns perfectly with the exhibition’s mission and its status as a leading regional and international destination for falconry and hunting enthusiasts,” he added, commending the organizers for elevating S’hail into a “global platform that brings together falconers, hobbyists, and experts from around the world under one roof.” Sheikh Faisal further emphasized that the strong turnout and enthusiasm S’hail receives from all generations, especially young people, inspired the creation of this book. “Falconry has always been, and continues to be, a school of patience, responsibility, and self-reliance—an enduring pillar of Qatari and Gulf identity,” he noted. The 446-page volume is structured into eight main chapters, each rich with real-life stories and vivid recollections. These include “A Day in the recent Falconry Expedition,” “Men and Falcons – Sons of Nature,” “Falconry of the Old Days,” “The Sport of Kings and Princes,” “Falconry: A School of Manhood,” “Perilous Expeditions,” and “Hunting to the Rhythm of Shellfire.” Alongside its storytelling, the book is illustrated with a rare archival collection of photographs capturing adventures, challenges, humorous encounters, and unique moments, making it both a visual and written chronicle of falconry life. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim expressed his hope that the book will serve as a lasting reference for future generations. He added that he aspires for it to contribute, even in a modest way, to enriching human knowledge of the balance that Qatar—through its leadership and people—has achieved between embracing modernity and global openness while preserving its cultural heritage, particularly through the living tradition of falconry handed down across generations.