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Doha is gearing up for a packed February as Qatar prepares to host a line-up of major global events that underline its emergence as a regional and international centre for exhibitions, conferences, and world-class sporting and cultural gatherings.The month’s agenda spans technology, energy, art, agriculture, and sport — together illustrating the diversity and global reach of Qatar’s economy and society.The curtain rises with Web Summit Qatar 2026 (Feb 1-4) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Returning after a successful debut, the event will bring together thousands of technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to discuss advances in artificial intelligence, sustainability, and the future digital economy.Close on its heels comes the 21st International Conference & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG 2026, Feb 2-5), widely regarded as the premier global meeting for the LNG industry. Qatar’s role as the world’s largest LNG exporter gives special prominence to this edition, which is expected to feature discussions on cleaner energy technologies and climate-aligned growth in the energy sector.From Feb 5-7, Doha will host two significant events reflecting Qatar’s growing influence in science and culture. The first Qatar International Reproductive Medicine Conference will gather leading medical researchers and practitioners to explore breakthroughs in fertility and women’s health. Running concurrently, Art Basel Qatar will spotlight contemporary artists from the region and around the world, expanding Doha’s profile as a leading art destination following recent international exhibitions at M7 and Qatar Museums.The action shifts courtside from Feb 8-14 with the Qatar TotalEnergies Open 2026, which brings top WTA players to compete at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. The tournament is consistently recognised for attracting some of the game’s biggest names early in the tennis season.The prestigious HH The Amir’s Sword International Equestrian Festival (Feb 11-14) follows, uniting the world’s elite riders at Al Rayyan Racecourse. The event blends high performance and elegance, celebrating Qatar’s enduring equestrian heritage.Environmental and food security priorities take the spotlight next with the 13th Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ 2026, Feb 12-16). The exhibition will showcase innovations in agricultural technology, sustainable farming, and climate resilience in food production, contributing to the country’s self-sufficiency goals.Tennis returns with the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2026 (Feb 16-21), one of the ATP Tour’s leading events in the Middle East. Over the years, the Doha tournament has hosted legends such as Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, strengthening Qatar’s reputation as a top-tier sporting venue.February will also offer lighter cultural moments. The Throwback Food Festival (Feb 17-19) will combine tradition and modernity through cuisine and live entertainment, presenting a family-friendly celebration of local heritage.Closing the month is the prestigious CHI Al Shaqab presented by Longines (Feb 19-21), hosted at the acclaimed Al Shaqab equestrian facility. The championship, combining show jumping, dressage, and para-dressage, continues to attract top riders from around the world to one of Qatar’s most iconic arenas.Together, these events make February one of the most dynamic months on Qatar’s calendar to date. From technology and trade to art, sport, and sustainability, Doha will once again stand at the crossroads of innovation and culture — a global meeting place for ideas, excellence, and exchange.As one event organiser put it, “Each February, Doha tells the world that progress and tradition can thrive side by side — and that Qatar’s story is still being written on every world stage it hosts.” 

The Qatar Society of Engineers marked Qatari Engineers Day with the support and participation of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Affairs, and in co-operation with the College of Engineering at Qatar University.Qatari Engineers Day is an occasion to celebrate and highlight the pivotal role of engineers in building a sustainable future and supporting Qatar National Vision 2030. It also underscores the Qatar Society of Engineers' pioneering role in launching national professional platforms that bring together decision-makers, academic institutions, and the labour market in a practical dialogue aimed at developing the engineering profession and empowering national talent.Chairperson of the Qatar Society of Engineers, Eng. Amna Mohammed al-Naama said the celebration coincides with the society's anniversary. She noted the achievements of Qatari engineers and their active contributions to all engineering sectors and the nation's development.She explained that the celebration, in addition to showcasing the engineers' achievements, addressed the challenges they face, including the various engineering specialisations, labour market needs, the integration of artificial intelligence and new technologies into the engineering sector and their impact, as well as the field of cybersecurity.She added that among the many achievements of the association, particularly during the past year, were those related to training and organising engineering conferences and forums. For example, the association launched the "Engineers Without Borders" programme and its website, in addition to organising the Qatar International Facilities Management Conference and Exhibition, the LED Technology and Renewable Energy Exhibition last October, and other important events.In her speech during the celebration, Eng. Amna al-Naama emphasised that holding the event at the College of Engineering at Qatar University reflects the depth of the partnership between the association and academic institutions and the belief that empowering engineers begins with integrating education with professional practice and the needs of the labour market.She pointed out that the engineering sector is witnessing rapid transformations that present new challenges and opportunities, noting that the true investment is in human capital, and that empowering engineers is a fundamental pillar for achieving Qatar's National Vision and building a future based on knowledge and innovation.Assistant Undersecretary for Social Development Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family, Fahad Mohammed al-Khayarin commended the efforts of the Qatar Society of Engineers in his speech during the ceremony, praising its dedicated work in serving the profession, engineers, and the community.He stated the Ministry of Social Development and Family believes that associations and private institutions are essential partners in development, particularly professional associations, given their crucial role in advancing the profession, empowering national talent, and building sustainable career paths.He explained that, from this perspective, the ministry plays its role in supervising, regulating, supporting, and empowering institutions, as well as promoting governance and sustainability within the legal frameworks governing the work of associations.This ensures their stability, growth, and societal impact.He specifically mentioned the Qatar Society of Engineers, which he described as a distinguished model of an effective professional association, highlighting its high-quality initiatives, targeted programmes, and its role in supporting engineers, promoting a culture of professional volunteering, and building partnerships with academic, governmental, and private sector entities.He noted that the ministry views professional associations as strategic partners that contribute to raising the efficiency of national talent, supporting innovation and professional excellence, and ultimately achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.Al-Khayarin reiterated the Ministry of Social Development and Family's full commitment to continuing its work with the Qatar Society of Engineers and all professional associations, thereby strengthening their role, enhancing their impact, and serving the nation and its citizens.Dean of the College of Engineering at Qatar University, Dr Mohammed Hussein Farouk also spoke at the event, emphasising that this gathering represents a significant milestone as it addresses pivotal issues of concern to both the academic and industrial sectors in Qatar.He highlighted Qatar's remarkable progress and development across various sectors, and the active and influential role of engineering graduates in these achievements.During the celebration, two panel discussions were held, addressing topics related to the challenges facing engineers and the job market, as well as the societal role of national associations in empowering national talent.These discussions touched upon the rapid advancements in technology, particularly digital technologies, and their impact on education, the nature of work in the industrial sector, and the job market in general. The role of artificial intelligence in reshaping the job market and the skills required was also discussed.  

The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) announced Wednesday that it will hold its 4th national forum between January 20-21, bringing together government bodies, international organisations, and civil society to examine drug control through a human rights lens amid growing global trafficking and rising drug use.The event, themed 'Human Rights at the Heart of Combating Drugs: Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Solutions' will take place in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF), the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), with the participation of the Public Prosecution, the National Planning Council, the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA), alongside relevant UN offices, and civil society institutions.His Excellency Dr Mohammed bin Saif al-Kuwari, vice-chairman of the NHRC, said: "Our choice of this topic reflects the challenges facing the entire world due to the growing phenomenon of drug and psychotropic substance trafficking globally, and the rising rates of drug use according to international reports. “It also reflects our deep understanding of its negative impact on human rights, in addition to the fact that it constitutes an obstacle to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals."Dr al-Kuwari noted that Qatar is free from the grave risks associated with this deadly scourge, thanks to the legislation, public policies, and measures implemented to combat trafficking and smuggling networks and mitigate their serious health, social, economic, and security consequences.He stressed the importance of developing these measures and strengthening the mechanisms to keep pace with global challenges and the rapidly evolving methods and means of drug smuggling and distribution. Dr al-Kuwari said the forum aims to adopt a comprehensive, human rights-based approach to legislation, public policy, and counter-narcotics strategies. This approach also emphasises the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals affected by substance abuse and addiction, in alignment with the principles of Qatar’s Permanent Constitution, Qatar National Vision 2030, and international human rights obligations.He highlighted the key role of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) in law enforcement and in implementing preventive measures to safeguard society from the harms of drugs. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts among relevant authorities and the engagement of diverse stakeholders to address evolving challenges, especially those arising from the misuse of artificial intelligence and new technologies to facilitate drug trafficking.This collaborative approach, he noted, is intended to strengthen Qatar’s internationally recognised leadership in prevention and control. Dr al-Kuwari said the forum will review legislation, public policies, and prevention and control plans, as well as examine the challenges facing efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate drug users into society. It will also explore the most effective means of raising public awareness about the dangers of drugs and the illicit use of psychoactive substances.Brigadier Saad Salem al-Dosari, assistant director of the Human Rights Department at the Ministry of Interior (MoI), underlined the depth of the constructive partnership between the MoI and NHRC. This partnership is based on the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two parties in 2018, which has led to the organisation of numerous joint events, training courses, and specialised awareness workshops on human rights.Al-Dosari said this forum will serve as an effective national platform and a distinguished opportunity to exchange expertise and experiences in combating drugs. It also supports and strengthens the Ministry of Interior's 2024-2030 strategy, particularly its second strategic objective to protect society from drugs, which is considered one of the most prominent challenges to the security and safety of individuals and communities. 

LuLu Hypermarket Qatar, the region’s leading retailer, has donated QR125,000 from its sixth annual ‘Shop & Donate’ campaign to Qatar Cancer Society (QCS), as part of breast cancer awareness efforts. This year’s campaign encouraged customers to become active partners in social responsibility by contributing through the purchase of selected products across LuLu stores and a portion of the proceeds directed towards supporting QCS’s mission. A non-profit charitable organisation, QCS relies on donations and community partnerships to raise awareness about cancer, methods of prevention, and the importance of early detection. QCS also offers financial, psychological, and social support to patients, survivors, and their families, and contributes to professional development and scientific research in the field of cancer. The donation cheque was handed over by Shanavas Padiyath, regional director of LuLu Hypermarket Qatar, to Ammar al-Mashhadani, public relations manager at QCS, during a ceremony held at LuLu Regional Office Doha. Al-Mashhadani highlighted the significance of such partnerships, noting that LuLu Hypermarket has been a consistent supporter of QCS and its various awareness and fundraising campaigns. He emphasised that QCS plays a vital role in the community by leading nationwide programmes focused on cancer prevention, early detection, patient support, and education. Through its continuous efforts, QCS provides essential services such as medical assistance for patients in need, public awareness activities, and initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles across Qatar. Reaffirming LuLu’s dedication, Shanavas, stated: “This campaign underscores LuLu’s long-standing commitment to social responsibility and health awareness. Supporting Qatar Cancer Society aligns with our mission to promote healthier lifestyles, encourage preventive care, and contribute to a more informed society. We will continue to enhance our initiatives to benefit the community and create lasting positive impact.” Beyond this annual donation, LuLu Hypermarket Qatar remains actively involved in several CSR-driven programmes. These include health education drives, collaborations with governmental bodies, and innovative initiatives such as interactive healthy cooking shows designed to empower customers with knowledge about nutrition and disease prevention.The ‘Shop & Donate’ campaign continues to stand as a model of how private-sector organisations can support national health objectives through impactful partnerships and customer engagement. With its sustained commitment to CSR excellence, LuLu Hypermarket Qatar reinforces its role as a responsible corporate leader contributing to the welfare of society, a statement added. 

The Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Acibadem Healthcare Group in Istanbul to enhance international collaboration and exchange expertise in cancer awareness, prevention, and patient care.The agreement was signed by Dr Mohannad Adnan, adviser, QCS and Mustafa Erogut, member of the Board of Directors of Acibadem Group.The two-year agreement includes scientific and community programmes that contribute to improving the level of awareness and healthcare provided to patients in both Qatar and Turkiye.The MoU includes joint awareness campaigns, the launch of support programmes for patients and their families, and the organisation of conferences and workshops for medical professionals to enhance their skills and keep abreast of the latest developments in oncology.The agreement also outlines opportunities to offer free or subsidised health screening programmes, jointly organised by QCS and Acibadem, which support early detection efforts and improve the overall quality of healthcare services available to patients.Both entities affirm that this partnership represents a strategic step towards strengthening medical innovation, transferring global expertise, and ensuring the highest standards of quality in healthcare — ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and expanding health awareness within the community.The visit of the Qatar Cancer Society delegation to the Acibadem Group included a comprehensive introductory tour of the group’s medical facilities, where the delegation was briefed on the latest technologies used in cancer diagnosis and treatment. They also learned about the psychological support systems for patients and the early screening services. The delegation additionally visited the Training and Skills Development Center for healthcare providers at Acibadem University, as well as the Research Centre.Dr Adnan stated: “The signing of this MoU reaffirms our mission to raise awareness about cancer, its prevention, and the importance of early detection. It also reflects our ongoing efforts to provide financial, psychological, and community support to patients, survivors, and their families, in addition to contributing to professional development and scientific research in the field of cancer.”Erogut added: “We are delighted to welcome the Qatar Cancer Society delegation, and we look forward to building a sustainable partnership that contributes to advancing cancer treatment services and providing the latest medical technologies to patients across the region. We remain committed to sharing our global expertise with our partners to strengthen the future of healthcare.” 

His Excellency the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the President of the National Planning Council (NPC), Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, attended Sunday the second "National Development Forum: Social Development Pillar," organised by the NPC under the theme "Sustaining Prosperity in Qatari Society" at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.The forum was attended by a number of ministers and senior officials, along with leaders from the private sector, representatives of civil society, and local and international institutions operating in Qatar.The forum constitutes a national platform for discussing the pillar of social development, and the role of family, society and national identity in supporting the path of national prosperity.

Floward, the go-to online flowers and gifts delivery destination in MENA and UK, has concluded its annual Pink October campaign in Qatar in collaboration with the Qatar Cancer Society, reaffirming its dedication to supporting breast cancer awareness, education, and patient care.As part of this year’s initiative, 10% of sales from Floward’s exclusive Pink October collection will be donated to the Qatar Cancer Society to support their ongoing programs and awareness campaigns.Beyond donations, Floward organized a series of offline activations across Doha aimed at spreading awareness and showing solidarity with patients, survivors, and their families. In collaboration with Alshareef Holding at Abraj Bay, Floward hosted a flower arrangement workshop for tenants, adorning the venue with elegant floral table arrangements and a flower backdrop to symbolize hope and unity.Floward also joined the Qatar Cancer Society’s main awareness session, where the team distributed single flowers to attendees as a gesture of compassion and encouragement, and later participated in the Relay for Life event with a striking flower installation that celebrated strength and resilience.**media[376849]**In partnership with United Development Company (UDC) and The Pearl International Hospital, Floward supported an awareness session by decorating the space with flower arrangements, creating a ribbon-shaped installation made of flowers, and distributing single flowers to attendees. Additionally, the team took part in a university awareness session at the College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, where flowers were shared with students and faculty in support of the cause.Floward also held internal awareness seminars for its employees, led by healthcare professionals, focusing on the importance of early detection, self-examination, and health education, reinforcing the company’s belief that awareness begins within.Through this year’s Pink October campaign, Floward continues to transform thoughtfulness into meaningful action, standing beside patients, survivors, and organizations leading the fight against breast cancer in Qatar and beyond.Established in 2017, Floward is a full-fledged e-commerce solution that offers prime fresh-cut flowers sourced from the best growers and farmers around the world and arranged locally by a team of florists and designers. Floward also offers cakes, chocolate and perfumes curated by the region’s most exciting designers bundled with its flower arrangements and manages last-mile same-day delivery to ensure the best customer experience.

A large number of residents and citizens gathered at the second edition of the global event 'Relay for Life 2025' organised by Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) Friday at the Aspire Indoor Track.QCS officials and several prominent community leaders led the event in which hundreds took part to honour cancer survivors and raise awareness about cancer.**media[375732]**This event, held in more than 30 countries worldwide, was a humanitarian occasion dedicated to celebrating life, honouring cancer survivors, remembering those we have lost, and reaffirming the community’s collective commitment to continue the fight against cancer.The event featured a diverse programme of educational and entertainment activities suitable for all ages, making it a special social experience for families and friends. The event brought together cancer survivors, caregivers, and families to celebrate life, honour those we’ve lost, and provide support to cancer patients.**media[375733]**During the event, there were inspiring stories from cancer survivors, who shared their courageous journeys of confronting the disease with strength and determination, becoming a source of hope and encouragement for others going through similar experiences.The event also included touching tributes to loved ones who have passed away, in heartfelt moments that express gratitude and embody the values of compassion and unity – the essence of this global initiative.**media[375734]**“Relay for Life” is characterised by its humanitarian and awareness-driven spirit, as participants engage in a continuous four-hour walk – a powerful symbol of the ongoing battle against cancer and the determination and hope shown by patients, survivors, and their families.The event was as an opportunity to unite efforts and strengthen community solidarity by building an integrated support network that empowers patients and encourages society to adopt healthy lifestyles.**media[375736]**Furthermore, there were awareness and educational sessions to promote the importance of prevention and early detection, highlighting methods of psychological and social support for patients and their families, and shedding light on the latest developments in treatment and healthcare.Relay for Life is one of the largest global events dedicated to supporting cancer patients and survivors. The event reflected the QCS’s mission to support cancer patients and raise public awareness about the disease.

HE President of Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) Yousef bin Ali Al Khater affirmed that the Gaza Strip has been at the top of the QRCS's humanitarian priorities since the outbreak of the war, due to the severe humanitarian conditions there. HE explained that QRCS has implemented more than 50 projects with a total value exceeding QR200mn, benefiting around 1.7mn people across several humanitarian sectors, including food, shelter, and water. In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE Al Khater said that QRCS has launched three dedicated campaigns for Gaza: the "Fidak Palestine” campaign, which was an emergency response appeal; the "Gaza Abiyya” campaign, launched in response to developments on the ground and the worsening humanitarian situation marked by increased displacement, food shortages, and deteriorating health conditions; and most recently, the "Life for Gaza” campaign, which was launched at the end of July 2025 and remains ongoing. HE pointed out that these campaigns coincide with QRCS's seasonal initiatives, such as the Ramadan Campaign, Warm Winter Campaign, and Adahi Campaign, in which Gaza is given top priority in project funding and implementation due to the immense humanitarian needs there. Regarding the main challenges and obstacles that have hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, Al Khater emphasised that QRCS office in Gaza has continued its work and managed to reach beneficiaries despite difficult circumstances and the repeated displacement of its staff. Even during prolonged border closures, the office maintained aid distribution in coordination and cooperation with official Qatari authorities and several international organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), the World Food Programme (WFP), the Egyptian Red Crescent (ERC), the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO), and the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), he added. He underlined that implementation methods and types of interventions were diversified between delivering aid from outside Gaza and implementing some projects within the Strip. As for the humanitarian interventions that entered Gaza despite the ongoing siege, Al Khater noted that QRCS carried them out in full co-ordination with the relevant Qatari authorities, with all aid delivered under the title "Qatar Aid." He recalled that, at the start of the war, an air bridge was established between Doha and Al-Arish in the Arab Republic of Egypt to transport aid and evacuate patients and the wounded for treatment in Qatari hospitals. Additionally, warehouses were prepared in Al-Arish to receive and store aid until it could be transferred into Gaza, he added. Regarding the aids delivered through Jordan, he said that an agreement was reached with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation to utilize its logistical capacities to receive and deliver aid into Gaza. On medical interventions since the beginning of the aggression on Gaza, Al Khater explained that these included the supply of medicines and medical consumables, a field hospital, ambulances, medical equipment and tools, contracting with specialist surgeons to perform complex surgeries, as well as the deployment of a medical team from outside Gaza and medical evacuation to Qatar for patients and the injured. Regarding prominent future projects that Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) intends to implement in 2026, Al Khater said that the focus will be on recovery and rehabilitation activities and development projects in the Gaza Strip, continuous readiness to provide urgent humanitarian response to various crises, strengthening international and local partnerships, humanitarian advocacy in international forums, and establishing emergency response units (ERU) internationally accredited by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in addition to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), which includes the Psychosocial Support Unit, the Field Hospital Unit (Type 2), and the Water and Sanitation Unit (15). He spoke about the most prominent humanitarian campaigns provided by the QRCS to Syria, including the 'Syria Rejoice' campaign, which comes within Qatar's humanitarian efforts to support the brotherly Syrian people, particularly in the health sector, by providing advanced medical equipment and supplies that contribute to enhancing the capacity of hospitals and health centers to provide care and treatment services. Under the auspices of the Department of International Co-operation and with the support of Sidra Medicine and several Qatari entities, land and air shipments totaling 90 tonnes of medical equipment and supplies were sent in September 2025, in addition to various relief materials intended to support the health and humanitarian sectors in Syria, he pointed out. Al Khater explained that the campaign aims to support the Syrian healthcare sector by supplying hospitals and healthcare centers with modern medical equipment and supplies, alleviate the humanitarian suffering of those affected by these difficult circumstances, enhance the healthcare system's ability to respond to emergencies, improve services provided to patients, and restore hope and stability to those returning to their areas after years of crisis. He pointed out that the plan aims to cover the needs of more than 50 hospitals and health centers across various Syrian governorates by delivering hundreds of essential medical devices and equipment, along with thousands of relief baskets, blankets, and first aid kits. Al Khater reviewed the most prominent humanitarian projects presented during 2025 in Bagladesh, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon and Afghanistan. (QNA) ####OPT CUT Several projects have been launched in Bangladesh, including the operation of five health centers and a field hospital inside Rohingya refugee camps, the digging of 25 drinking water wells in various areas, the construction of about 508 new shelters and the maintenance of 302 existing shelters inside the camps, the distribution of non-food item packages to beneficiaries, the launch of seasonal projects such as Warm Winter and Adahi, and the treatment of heart diseases for sick children through the Little Hearts medical convoy. In this context, HE noted the launch of two livelihood projects to economically empower Rohingya refugee women and farmers affected by the floods. In Lebanon during 2024 and 2025, QRCS focused on five main areas and launched several projects for health, water and sanitation, food security, emergency and winter responses, and cash assistance through the Road to Stability initiative, supported by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), to support thousands of the most vulnerable Lebanese families with multi-purpose cash assistance. In Yemen, Al Khater highlighted the most prominent projects and humanitarian responses implemented by QRCS, including the drilling of wells and the construction of water reservoirs, livelihood improvement and standard of living projects, and support for the Cardiovascular Center in Taiz. He also highlighted seasonal projects such as distributing food baskets and winter shelter materials, and a project to support kidney failure and cancer patients. Regarding humanitarian interventions in Afghanistan, he pointed to the construction, equipping and operation of a Basic Health Centre (BHC) in Kandahar province (Dand District) to provide basic healthcare services, support for the operation of a Comprehensive Health Centre (CHC), drilling and installing 62 artesian wells to provide drinking water, and implementing three projects to enhance the livelihoods of poor and needy families in various fields, in addition to seasonal projects such as Iftar and Warm Winter, as well as the construction of a residential village for poor families who were forcibly returned from asylum for 100 families with funding from philanthropists from Qatar. His Excellency noted the implementation of a project responding to the needs of those affected by the 2025 earthquake in Kunar province. He indicated that an agricultural support project is currently being implemented to improve the living standards of approximately 2,000 families affected by disasters, with funding from QFFD. Arrangements are also underway to implement a project to support the Children's Heart Center at the Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital in Kabul, with funding from the same fund at an estimated cost of more than $2mn. In Somalia, QRCS implemented numerous health and medical projects in various regions, including cardiac catheterizations for children, general surgery, urology, and eye surgeries, as well as providing therapeutic medications to government hospitals, Al Khater explained. It also implemented productive projects for poor families to provide a steady source of income, and drilled deep artesian wells in drought-affected areas.

Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has completed a multi-specialisation medical convoy in Guyana, funded by Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD).During the seven-day mission, the volunteering medical team from Hamad Medical Corporation and Sidra Medicine examined a total of 140 patients and performed 48 major surgeries, in light of the needs specified by the Ministry of Health, as follows: 16 cardiac catheterisations, 13 cancer surgeries, four paediatric gastrointestinal surgeries, and 15 urology surgeries.Apart from the medical team, there was a delegation from QFFD and QRCS, headed by Mohamed Ahmed al-Beshri, assistant secretary-general, Communication and Resource Development at QRCS. Members of the delegation included Dr Izzadeen Gaffar, coordinator, Medical Convoys Project at QRCS and Yousef al-Mulla, acting director of Humanitarian Aid Department at QFFD. They were received by Mohamed Ibrahim al-Rumaihi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Qatar in Guyana, who helped facilitate the delegation’s mission and coordinate with local authorities.Two training workshops were delivered by the gynaecology and urology consultants for 38 local doctors. In addition, 30 medical professionals received on-the-job training during the procedures,Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation was supported with the medical supplies and equipment needed for cardiac catheterisation and specialised surgeries, helping upgrade the hospital’s resources and ensure continued services following the end of mission.Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, held a special reception for the Qatari delegation, in the presence of al-Rumaihi. He praised Qatar’s support for his country during the Covid-19 pandemic, through the deployment of a fully equipped field hospital and the provision of ventilators and vaccines.

The Qatar Amateur Radio Society (QARS) took part in the annual international amateur on-air radio contest ‘CQ World Wide DX Contest’, which kicked off Saturday and will run for two days, with participation from amateur radio enthusiasts around the globe.In preparation for the contest, QARS established an international station at its headquarters, operating across all designated international frequencies for the event.The society also installed towers, antennae, and all necessary equipment and computers. Additionally, several members are participating from their personal stations outside the headquarters, with QARS competing under its international call sign ‘A73A’. The CQ World Wide DX Contest is held annually and is considered one of the most prominent global competitions in the amateur radio calendar.QARS is participating with a team comprising board members and experienced society members who have previously achieved high rankings in past editions of the contest. In this context, HE the Chairman of QARS Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah stated that this year’s participation is exemplary, with all contest requirements met and a high-level station equipped with advanced devices and high-quality antennas established to secure a top global ranking. He expressed hope that QARS will achieve first place worldwide through its participation this year.For his part, Secretary of QARS Sabaan Mismar al-Jassim noted that the contest is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the amateur radio field, attracting wide participation from across the world. Over 8mn enthusiasts follow the event globally, with 2-3mn actively on air during the 48-hour contest period.He explained that the contest follows precise standards and regulations aimed at scoring the highest number of points through communication with stations worldwide. He pointed out that QARS possesses integrated systems that allow multiple stations to operate simultaneously across various radio frequencies, enhancing its competitiveness and chances of achieving outstanding results.Al-Jassim added that this year’s participation is the strongest yet, thanks to the support provided by the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF), which contributed to the renewal and modernisation of all QARS equipment, stations, and antenna towers. This support enabled the team to operate more efficiently and compete for top global positions.He highlighted that QARS includes a specialised team with extensive experience in international contests, working to identify high-scoring stations to optimise results, despite technical challenges such as weak frequencies or geographic limitations. He affirmed the society’s ongoing efforts to improve performance and elevate Qatar’s name in international amateur radio forums.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), al-Jassim stated that the MSDF has shown strong support for associations this year, providing QARS with updated technology. He emphasised that the field of technology is constantly evolving, and QARS has a plan to ensure all its equipment remains up-to-date, particularly antennas, which are often custom-ordered or manufactured to meet specific contest requirements.He added that members operate their own stations from home to represent Qatar in this international event. He also noted QARS’s consistent participation in various national and international events, such as Qatar National Day and Sports Day, and its dedication to establishing special stations for major occasions. He revealed that QARS will set up a station during the upcoming Arab Cup and other major national events, and previously operated eight stations during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

The Qatar Amateur Radio Society (QARS) and the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association (QSGA) participated Saturday in the 2025 Global Jamboree on the Air and Internet (JOTA-JOTI) through a dedicated radio station set up at the Qatar Amateur Radio Society headquarters under the special call sign (A71AJOTA).The global camp marks the 68th edition of JOTA and the 29th of JOTI, offering 48 continuous hours of interaction among scouts worldwide in a unique experience that blends technology, friendship, and global scouting culture.In his remarks, HE Shura Council Member and QARS Vice President Dr. Ahmed bin Hamad Al Mohannadi emphasized the society's annual commitment to such international events that foster global communication among amateur radio enthusiasts.He noted that the society's participation aims to promote cultural exchange, allowing scouts and radio amateurs to project their voices from Qatar to the world, encouraging year-round engagement and knowledge sharing.He added that amateur radio clubs worldwide showcase the latest advancements in radio technology and highlight the role of amateur radio in connecting people across borders. JOTA-JOTI utilizes two communication systems including amateur radio and the internet.QARS Secretary Saba'an Mismar Al Jassim stated that the society is marking its 15th consecutive year of participation in this official international event organized by the World Organization of the Scout Movement.He explained that JOTA is a global event where scouts of all ages from various countries connect via amateur radio stations, enabling and encouraging global communication among scouts, enriching their educational experience, and strengthening their sense of belonging to the global scouting movement.Scout leader Ahmed Khamis Al Yousef, Scouting Activities Consultant at the QSGA expressed pride in Qatar's participation in the global camp, affirming that interaction with scouts worldwide broadens participants' horizons and instills values of understanding and peace.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Al Yousef described the event as a global gathering of scouts and guides, facilitating the exchange of experiences and communication across cultures.He noted that participant selection is based on thorough preparation and the selection of outstanding scouts from both public and private schools, with language skills playing a role in enabling communication across different regions. Some scouts interact with peers from the Arab world, while others engage with scouts from around the globe in various languages, creating a diverse platform for cultural exchange.Media Officer Buthaina Dasmal Al Kuwari from the QSGA emphasized the importance of media coverage for such events, as it reflects the pioneering role of Qatari scouting in global forums.She noted that Qatar's first participation in JOTA-JOTI dates back to 1996 during the maritime camp in Al Khor, marking a deeply rooted legacy in the history of Qatari scouting.