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Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of the Qatar Airways Group, has announced a major milestone in private aviation connectivity. By early 2026, every Gulfstream and Bombardier aircraft type in the Qatar Executive fleet will be equipped with Starlink, the world's leading ultra-high-speed, low-latency Internet.This ambitious rollout builds on Qatar Executive's commitment to innovation and client experience. Half of the Gulfstream G650ER's and entire Bombardier Global 5000's fleet are already operating with Starlink, delivering seamless, ultra-fast Internet that allows passengers to work, stream, and communicate at ground-like speeds.All installations are performed in-house and will continue at a record pace with all remaining G650ER's and the entire G700 fleet scheduled for completion by early 2026.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed Al Meer said: "We are pleased to consistently go above and beyond the expectations of our clients. By equipping our entire ultra-long-range fleet with Starlink, and completing installations with our own skilled technical teams, we are now setting a new standard for private aviation as well. This initiative aligns with our relentless commitment to excellence, delivering an experience that goes beyond expectations and truly feels like a home in the sky."The fleet-wide upgrade, combined with Qatar Executive's world-class service, creates an exclusive and unmatched experience that elevates connectivity and enhances synergies across the Qatar Airways Group.Qatar Executive is the private jet charter division of the Qatar Airways Group. Luxury jet services are available for worldwide charter on board the operator's wholly-owned business jet fleet.The ultramodern fleet includes eight Gulfstream G700's, fifteen Gulfstream G650ER's, two Bombardier Global 5000's and one Airbus A319CJ, all of which operate on a ‘floating fleet' concept, repositioning as needed, around the world, to meet customer demand and minimising the flying required to move from one customer to the next.

By the end of 2024, Qatar’s population was estimated at approximately 3.2mn, a young and highly literate population, with an average age of 32 years supported by a healthy annual growth rate and strong economic fundamentals.Qatar is widely recognised for posting consistently strong economic performance. The country is witnessing rapid developments across the infrastructure, logistics, tourism, and sports sectors, positioning it as a leading regional hub among the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) states for major events and investments.Qatar offers visa free entry to GCC passport holders, in addition to nationals of 101 countries getting visa-free entry and 95 countries obtaining visa on arrival.Qatar offers world-leading aviation connectivity, positioning the country and the region as a significant global transit hub.Qatar Airways operates from the Hamad International Airport in Doha, repeatedly ranked among the world’s best. The national carrier flies to over 182 destinations across the world, significantly increasing global visibility and accessibility to the country as well as the region to support tourism, trade, logistics and sports events.Qatar positive factors include:High human development: Qatar consistently ranks in the “very high” category of the Human Development Index (HDI), placing it among the top global performers in education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.Strategic energy leadership: Qatar holds one of the world’s largest natural gas reserves and is a leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), giving it significant influence in the global energy markets and ensuring long-term economic stability.Flourishing tourism: Qatar has consistently demonstrated unmatched capability to organise mega events such as the FIFA World Cup 2022, World Aquatics competitions, ATP tennis tournaments, Formula 1, World Athletics Championships, World Gymnastics Championships, and the Asian Games 2006. It strengthens Qatar’s global soft power and boosts tourism.Strong social stability and safety: Qatar is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Qatar’s stability, secure environment, and modern infrastructure attract families, investors, multinational companies, and international organisations to visit or move to Qatar.Qatar is located in the GCC region. The GCC – consisting of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain – is a regional political and economic alliance established in 1981 to foster collaboration, stability, and shared development.At the last GCC Heads of States Summit held in Bahrain on December 3, the leaders confirmed their support for Qatar’s bid for the 2036 Olympic Games. 

His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, Sunday crowned Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing driver as the winner of the Qatar Airways Formula 1 Grand Prix 2025. Held at Lusail International Circuit, the Qatar Grand Prix served as round 23 and the penultimate race of the Formula 1 World Championship season. Joining Sheikh Joaan in the podium ceremony were, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), Badr Mohammed al-Meer, CEO of Qatar Airways, Abdulrahman al-Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation, and Abdulaziz al-Mohannadi, CEO of Lusail International Circuit. The Dutch driver clinched first place after completing the 57-lap race in a time of 1:24:38.241 hours, finishing ahead of Australia’s Oscar Piastri of McLaren, who took second place, while Spain’s Carlos Sainz of Williams secured the third place. 

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) geared up for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix, with preparations completed ahead of an exhilarating race weekend.On Thursday, F1 enthusiasts experienced the iconic Pit Lane Walk, offering them an immersive view of the teams' garages, pitstops and opportunities to interact with drivers and teams.**media[387103]**Additionally, with inclusivity and community engagement at the heart of LIC, an accessibility friendly pit lane walk in collaboration with Qatar Foundation also took place. This special session welcomed students (accompanied with chaperones and family members) from Warif Academy, Renad Academy, and Awsaj Academy, including children who have diverse abilities and additional learning needs.**media[387105]**Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton made a special appearance where children had the chance to meet him, ask questions and get their autograph. This once in a lifetime opportunity offered the students an enriching and engaging experience, allowing them to connect closely with one of the sport’s most iconic drivers while creating memorable moments that encouraged confidence, inclusivity, and a deeper understanding of the world of Formula 1.**media[387106]**The day progressed with the official F1 drivers' press conference, which featured insights from drivers including Oliver Bearman (Haas), Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes), Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls), Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari), Nico Hulkenberg (Kick Sauber) and Carlos Sainz (Williams Racing).**media[387107]**On Friday, Practice 1 and Sprint Qualifying will be held with Sprint Race and Qualifying scheduled for Saturday, and the main Grand Prix on Sunday under the iconic LIC lights. Adding to the excitement, the weekend's post-race concerts at the Lusail Live Stage will feature Seal on Friday, Cheb Khaled on Saturday, and Metallica on Sunday.**media[387104]**For those attending, the circuit gates open from 12pm to 10pm on Friday, with the fan forum being a favorite among attendees. Beginning in the afternoon, it allows fans to interact directly with F1 drivers. The Lusail Live Stage will light up with performances including Seal’s from 9pm, with gates opening at 8:30pm.**media[387101]**Ticket holders are reminded that complimentary Metro passes are available for redemption at the goldclub office at any Doha Metro station or selected Lusail Tram stations. The Doha Metro will operate extended hours from 9am to 1:30am on Friday, with complimentary shuttle services running from Lusail QNB Station to the circuit. For the latest updates and information, download the official LIC App or visit the official website at lcsc.qa.

Qatar Airways has increased capacity to Kuala Lumpur, Lagos, Shanghai, and Singapore this winter season to meet the global demand on these routes. This increase in flight frequency is part of the airline's broader winter schedule enhancements, which have already introduced additional frequencies to more than 15 major destinations, including Cape Town, Dublin, London, Phuket, and Toronto.In a statement, the airline said that the growing demand for Qatar Airways' travel experience resulted in the airline offering nearly 3,000 additional flights this year. Starting 17 December 2025, Qatar Airways flights to Kuala Lumpur (KUL) will increase from 14 to 17 weekly flights. The additional services will offer seamless connections between Southeast Asia and Jeddah, London, and Paris through Doha.Effective 15 December 2025 until 28 March 2026, Qatar Airways' services to Lagos (LOS) will increase from 10 to 14 weekly. The increased frequency enhances connectivity between the Nigeria and Qatar Airways' extensive global network of over 170 destinations, facilitating smoother travel for both business and leisure passengers to Delhi, Guangzhou, and London. Effective 01 January to 28 March 2026, services will rise from 7 to 10 weekly flights to meet growing inbound and outbound demand from China. This frequency increase will further enhance connectivity between Asia and Qatar Airways' key destinations across Algiers, São Paulo, and Warsaw.From 12 January 2026, Qatar Airways will deploy the Airbus A380 on select flights to Singapore, offering enhanced capacity and an elevated premium experience. The airline's global connectivity is supported by its diverse fleet of aircraft that includes a mix of Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 equipped with ultra-high-speed Starlink on-board Wi-Fi. Qatar Airways is the first airline in the world to fully equip and operate over 100 widebody aircraft with Starlink, and the first carrier in the MENA region to offer the service. Passengers in both Premium and Economy cabins enjoy free, gate-to-gate Wi-Fi, with speeds of up to 500 Mbps per aircraft.

In the lead-up to the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025, Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is set to bring the thrill of the race beyond the track with mall activations designed to engage fans of all ages. Motorsport enthusiasts across Doha will have the chance to experience the excitement of Formula 1 first hand through interactive and visually stunning installations.At Place Vendome Mall, ground floor by Paul Cafe, the Qatar GP Village will welcome visitors, from November 2 to 30, during mall operating hours with a variety of interactive experiences free of charge for kids and adults. Fans can test their racing skills in the VR Pit Stop Challenge, compete on F1 simulators, explore hologram boxes, solve racing-themed puzzles, design their own helmets via the “Build Your Helmet” app, and capture memories at dedicated photo booths. The Cheer Wall will allow visitors to celebrate the passion of Formula 1, creating a truly participatory fan experience.Fatima al-Qaedi, Marketing and Communications Manager at Lusail International Circuit, commented, “Our off-track activations are designed to bring the excitement of Formula 1 closer to fans across Doha. We aim to tap into different segments in our activation: education, art, technology, and fun as this is what F1 is all about, and we want to make sure that Doha, and everyone coming to Doha, celebrates this with us. With interactive and immersive racing experiences, these initiatives celebrate the passion for motorsport, making the countdown to the Grand Prix an unforgettable experience for everyone.”Tickets for the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2025 continue to sell rapidly. Fans can still secure limited grandstand and hospitality packages in addition to single day tickets for Friday and Saturday. Friday tickets offer a chance to enjoy opening festivities and the vibrant Fan Zone starred by the iconic British singer, Seal’s performance, while Saturday provides the exclusive Sprint Race with the F2 as support races, and the full 3-day experience promises nonstop racing, entertainment, and fan activities. Tickets can be purchased via Lusail International Circuit’s website at tickets.lcsc.qa.With city and mall activations even running through race weekend, LIC has invited fans to immerse themselves in the world of Formula 1 and experience the thrill, technology, and culture that defines the Qatar Grand Prix.

Qatar Central Bank has partnered with Qatar Airways Privilege Club to introduce a more rewarding experience for ‘Himyan’ cardholders, enabling Himyan prepaid and debit cardholders to enjoy Privilege Club benefits and collect Avios when using their Himyan cards.Himyan cardholders can now collect one Avios for every QR8 spent using their cards on online or point-of-sale (POS) transactions.The cardholders will also benefit from card-linked offers, whereby they will collect even more Avios for purchases with linked Himyan cards at participating Privilege Club partner outlets, which include retail, dining, entertainment, lifestyle and more venues across Qatar.This initiative is launched by the Qatar Central Bank to enhance the product proposition of Himyan, the national payment card of Qatar, and aligns with Privilege Club’s strategic objective of providing its members with new avenues to collect Avios as part of their everyday lifestyle.This pioneering first-of-its kind partnership is now available to both existing and new Himyan cardholders of Ahli Bank, AlRayan Bank, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Dukhan Bank, Qatar International Islamic Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, and Qatar National Bank.Commenting on the initiative, HE the Deputy Governor of Qatar Central Bank, Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid bin Ahmed bin Sultan al-Thani stated: “This initiative reflects the Qatar Central Bank’s commitment to developing the national payments ecosystem and strengthening collaboration with partners across various sectors.“It aligns with the objectives of the Third Financial Sector Strategy of the State of Qatar, supports the digital payments transformation, and further enhances the benefits of the Himyan card as a secure and advanced payment instrument within the State of Qatar”.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Badr Mohammed al-Meer, said: “Our collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank reflects Qatar Airways’ commitment to supporting Qatar’s digital and economic transformation. This initiative aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting national innovation and strengthening the country’s financial ecosystem through a home-grown payment solution. We thank the Qatar Central Bank for this forward-thinking initiative, which enables Privilege Club members to earn Avios while contributing to an economy that keeps value within Qatar.”Privilege Club members can redeem the Avios they collect through Himyan card purchases for travel and lifestyle rewards of their choice. With Cash + Avios, they can enjoy flexible partial payments using Avios, benefit from significant discounts on flights, upgrades, extra baggage allowance, holiday packages, and much more.

Qatar Airways has been named the 'Best Airline in the World' at the Business Traveller Awards 2025. Held at the Sky Garden in London, the Business Traveller Awards ceremony brought together influential figures from across the travel and hospitality industry to celebrate outstanding achievements. Qatar Airways was recognised by a panel of industry experts, each bringing decades of experience and a sharp eye for excellence, for its role in advancing the aviation industry. Qatar Airways was also awarded Best Business Class in the World, Best Economy Class in the World, Best Frequent Flyer Programme in the World, Best Airline Lounge in the World (Al Mourjan Lounges, DOH), and Best Airline Between Europe and the Middle East. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer Thierry Antinori said: "We are honoured to receive these prestigious accolades that reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence. Being named World's Best Airline, alongside recognition for our Business and Economy Class cabins, loyalty programme, and lounges, is a testament to our dedication to delivering unparalleled experiences, to our customers at each travel touchpoint. These awards reaffirm our position as a global leader and top innovator in the industry, and inspire us to continue setting new leading standards for comfort, connectivity and service." Ink Global Chief Commercial Officer Michael Keating said: "Qatar Airways performed outstandingly well in this year's Business Traveller Awards, winning five of the seven global airline categories and six awards in total. From its industry-leading Business Class product to exceptional inflight service and innovations such as free Starlink Wi-Fi, Qatar Airways is a truly deserving winner. We were delighted to celebrate their success at the Global Awards ceremony in London, and Business Traveller looks forward to seeing how the airline continues to pioneer world-class travel in the years ahead." These recognitions mark another milestone in what has been an outstanding year for Qatar Airways, as the airline continues to expand its global network of over 170 destinations globally, elevate its product offerings, and drive innovation in service excellence. As the national carrier of the State of Qatar, Qatar Airways remains committed to delivering world-class hospitality, elevating the passenger experience, and earning the trust and loyalty of travellers across the globe.

The tickets for the 2026 MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar taking place at Lusail International Circuit (LIC), from April 10 to April 12, 2026, are now available. The Grand Prix of Qatar promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for motorsport enthusiasts.Constructed in 2004, LIC made its debut that same year by hosting the first ever Qatar Grand Prix, marking the country’s entry into the MotoGP World Championship. Since 2008, the Qatar Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most visually appealing events on the MotoGP calendar with its unique night time racing format. To this day, it remains the only venue on the calendar to host night races. The combination of cutting edge facilities and the iconic illumination of LIC creates an unparalleled spectacle that has become a hallmark of the championship.The 2026 MotoGP season is set to deliver another thrilling chapter, with the grid now fully confirmed after one of the most unpredictable contract periods in recent years, where Diogo Moreira was announced to join Honda LCR, completing an exciting line up of 22 riders.With Ducati’s powerhouse pairing of Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez locked in, and rising stars like Pedro Acosta and Fermin Aldeguer ready to impress, the 2026 MotoGP grid blends proven champions with exciting new contenders. As anticipation builds for pre-season testing, fans can look forward to another year of fierce competition and unforgettable racing under the lights of Lusail.Ticket InformationFans can purchase tickets through LIC'S official website. For just QR200, a three-day ticket grants access to:• Free seating in the Main Grandstand and Lusail Hill (Turn 1 elevated viewing area)• Fan Zone with entertainment and activities for all ages.• MotoGP merchandising and other retail outlets.• Easy access to free parking and taxi pick up and drop off zone.• As a special bonus, motorsport enthusiasts who purchase tickets for the 2026 MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar will also receive a 25% discount on tickets for the Qatar 1812 KM - FIA World Endurance Championship.• Wheelchair ticket holders are entitled to one free companion ticket (contact [email protected])Fans can book a maximum of 6 child tickets (free of charge for under 12 years of age) when accompanied by 1 adult purchasing a full price ticket.Event scheduleFriday, April 10, 2026: Free practice.Saturday, April 11, 2026: Qualifying for all teams and Sprint race.Sunday, April 12, 2026: Motogp Qatar Airways Grand Prix of QatarThe Qatar Grand Prix will showcase the world’s top riders competing on the 5.38 kilometer track. This world class venue features a flowing layout with a mix of medium and high speed corners, a main straight over one kilometer in length.Details on Hero walks, hospitality packages, and Fan Zone activations will be available on LIC’sofficial website and social media channels. For corporate and group requests, contact [email protected].

Qatar Airways has been awarded the ACT Middle East Treasury Award for capital raising for its landmark QR4.5bn QNB-led dual-tranche syndicated facility and supported by a consortium of local banks. “The milestone transaction marks one of the largest aviation finance deals of its kind in the region, reinforcing the airline’s financial strength and resilience.“The achievement underscores Qatar Airways’ prudent financial strategy, strong relationships with Qatar’s world-class banking sector, and its ability to successfully navigate complex financing structures to supportlong-term sustainable growth.” QNB, as the leading financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, played a pivotal role in structuring and leading the capital raising, leveraging its expertise and strong relationships with local banks. The transaction underscores QNB’s ability to deliver innovative financial solutions that support Qatar’s flagship companies in achieving sustainable growth and global competitiveness.The ACT Middle East Treasury Awards recognise outstanding achievements in corporate treasury across the region, celebrating excellence in financial management. The accolade highlights Qatar Airways’ commitment to the highest standards of financial management and the strategic role of the airline in strengthening Qatar’s economic resilience.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Badr Mohammed al-Meer, said: “We are delighted to receive the ACT Middle East Treasury award for our landmark capital raising agreement with local banks led by QNB for QR4.5bn. The landmark financing deal, achieved with the leadership of QNB and the support of our local banks, reflects the strength of our partnership and commitment to financial excellence and is fully in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. It is not only an achievement for the airline, but also a testament to Qatar’s world-class banking sector.”QNB Group Chief Executive Officer, Abdulla Mubarak al-Khalifa, said: “We are proud to have supported Qatar Airways in this landmark transaction, which reflects the strength of Qatar’s financial sector and its ability to deliver innovative financing solutions. This achievement not only reinforces the airline’s global position but also demonstrates our commitment to advancing Qatar’s economic resilience and long-termsustainable growth in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.”Qatar Airways continues to be a leader in both aviation and finance, ensuring the airline remains well-positioned to expand its network, invest in new aircraft, and deliver the five-star service for which it is globally renowned. The national carrier also aims to stimulate greater collaboration between the aviation and the banking sector, paving the way for innovative financial structures tailored to the airline’s evolving needs while promoting national economic resilience.

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

Qatar Airways will make history this year as the first ever ‘Presenting Partner’ of the world’s most prestigious award ceremony in football, Ballon d’Or, reinforcing the airline’s deep commitment to global sport and excellence.The 69th edition of the Ballon d’Or will take place on September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.For over six decades, the Ballon d’Or has crowned the greatest players in football, celebrating talent, dedication, and achievement on the world stage.This new partnership unites the national airline with the “world’s best” players, and marks a milestone in Qatar Airways’ ongoing support of the global sporting community.As the airline that connects fans, players, and cultures across the globe, Qatar Airways’ role as the 69th Balon d’Or ceremony ‘Presenting Partner’ underscores its purpose-driven ambition – to bring the world together through the universal language of sport.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Badr Mohammed al-Meer, said: “We are delighted to become the first ever Presenting Partner of the Ballon d’Or Ceremony as we celebrate the legends who inspire generations. This partnership is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, and by aligning Qatar Airways, the World’s Best Airline with the World’s Best Footballers, we are reinforcing our brand's dedication to being the very best in every arena we enter. Just as we connect people and places through our extensive network and award-winning service, this partnership will further our mission to connect dreams, cultures and the passion for football across continents.”UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, said: “The Ballon d’Or is more than an award - it’s a celebration of inspirational talents who define football and its history. We are honoured to welcome Qatar Airways as the first presenting partner of this iconic ceremony. “Together, we celebrate not only a passion for the beautiful game and excellence without borders, but also the profound value of bringing the world closer together.”The Ballon d’Or is awarded annually by France Football magazine, honouring the world’s best players across the Men’s and Women’s game. The full set of nominees for the 2025 Ballon d'Or can be found here.This partnership marks another chapter in Qatar Airways’ portfolio of high-profile global sports partnerships, including the likes of FIFA, UEFA Champions League and National Team Competitions, Formula 1®, Paris-Saint Germain (PSG), FC Internazionale Milano, AFC, Tennis Legend – Novak Djokovic, The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), MotoGP, the IRONMAN Triathlon Series, French Rugby Team – Section Paloise, The Brooklyn Nets NBA Team, and multiple other disciplines including Australian football, equestrian, motor racing, padel, squash, and tennis.