tag

LuLu Hypermarket Qatar, in association with the embassy of India — Doha and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), officially launched ‘LuLu MangoMania 2026 – Best of India Mango Festival’ at LuLu Hypermarket Al Gharafa. The grand inauguration ceremony was officiated by Indian ambassador Vipul, along with Sandeep Saha, regional head – Northeast & Ladakh, APEDA; and Dr Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group-Global Operations & CSO. The event was attended by dignitaries, Qatari guests, officials from the Embassy of India, representatives from APEDA, and Indian community leaders. The much-awaited annual mango festival celebrates India’s rich agricultural heritage and showcases the unmatched taste, flavour, and diversity of Indian mangoes, popularly known as the “King of Fruits.”This year, LuLu is presenting more than 40 varieties of premium Indian mangoes sourced from various regions across India, offering customers an authentic seasonal mango experience. Timed with the peak mango season in India, the promotion aims to showcase India’s finest mango varieties to international consumers, especially the large Indian diaspora residing in Qatar, who eagerly look forward to the arrival of fresh Indian mangoes every year. The festival features a wide range of popular and premium mango varieties, including Alphonso, Kesar, Badami, Langra, Dasheri, Mallika, and many more, carefully sourced from leading mango-producing regions of India. Speaking during the inauguration, Vipul said: “LuLu has been hosting this Mango Festival for many years, and today it has become one of the most popular seasonal celebrations across the Gulf region. “India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, offering an incredible diversity of varieties, and it is wonderful to see nearly 40 premium Indian mango varieties showcased here in Qatar. Indian mangoes have become a cultural bridge connecting India with Qatar and the wider Gulf community.” “This year’s festival is especially significant considering the global logistical challenges involved in transporting fresh produce. “Despite these difficulties, LuLu has once again made exceptional efforts to bring the finest Indian mangoes to Qatar. I appreciate Dr Althaf and the LuLu team for continuously supporting Indian exporters and strengthening the relationship between India and Qatar through initiatives like Mango Mania. “Even though mangoes are slightly more expensive this year, they remain one of life’s great pleasures to be enjoyed.”Saha said: “We always look forward to the mango season and are delighted to launch this programme in Qatar as part of our ongoing GCC promotion series. “We are expecting a strong export season this year and are proud to showcase more than 40 varieties of premium Indian mangoes, including the prestigious Miyazaki mango, to consumers in the region.”The inauguration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony attended by the dignitaries and guests, marking theofficial opening of LuLu Mango Mania 2026. The mango promotion is currently running across all LuLu Hypermarket outlets in Qatar, offering customers a unique opportunity to enjoy the finest flavours of India’s mango season. 

Visit Qatar has announced the launch of its latest promotional campaign, 'Kids Go Free', as part of the ‘Hala Summer’ 2026 season. The campaign introduces a range of family-focused offers across the country, inviting citizens and residents with confirmed hotel bookings, to rediscover Qatar through exceptional staycation experiences combining entertainment, leisure, and added value.Running from May 1 to Sept 30, the five-month campaign offers a simple proposition: children under the age of 12 can stay, dine, and enjoy a wide range of experiences free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult, while also benefiting from added-value offers across selected attractions, restaurants, tours, and entertainment venues. This applies across all participating offers, subject to individual partner terms and conditions.More than 100 hotels and resorts across Qatar will offer Kids Stay Free, allowing up to two children to stay at no additional cost when sharing their parents’ room using existing bedding or complimentary rollaway beds or cots. Participating hotels will also offer Kids Eat Free, enabling complimentary dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at hotel restaurants, excluding room service and minibar.Under the Kids Explore Free offer, families can further explore Qatar through a variety of tours organised by participating partners, including desert safaris, cultural experiences, and marine activities, with selected excursions available at no additional cost under the campaign.Across the destination, participating theme parks and waterparks will introduce family-friendly ticket promotions, including “buy two, get one free” offers for children, alongside selected “buy one, get one free” promotions, subject to individual venue terms and availability. Additionally, select museums, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues will also offer one complimentary child ticket with the purchase of a paid adult ticket.Dining offers extend beyond hotels to participating restaurants and food and beverage outlets, where one child can dine free from the kids’ menu when accompanied by a paying adult, subject to venue-specific terms and menu selections.Additional benefits include prepaid credit bundles at select venues, providing bonus credit redeemable across dining, retail, and selected activities within participating locations.To enhance the visitor experience, cross-destination value-added offers will be accessible through the Visit Qatar Wallet, activated exclusively for guests with confirmed hotel bookings. Upon check-in, guests will receive a QR code to unlock their offers, with vouchers loaded into the wallet for one-time use per vendor, encouraging exploration across the destination.Kids Go Free forms part of the wider ‘Hala Summer’ season, featuring a packed calendar of events including the Qatar Toy Festival, alongside global attractions such as Minecraft World, Colorverse, Fontana Circus performances, and Sneaker Con. Activities will also take place across 10 of the country’s leading shopping malls, offering live entertainment, character appearances, and family activations. 

Schools in India's capital must ring regular bells to remind schoolchildren to drink water as the megacity gears up to face heatwave conditions, a new city order has said.Summer heat in the world's most populous nation can be brutal — putting millions of people at risk, with nearly 11,000 people dying due to heat stroke between 2012 and 2021, according to government data.A heatwave in May 2024 in New Delhi saw temperatures match the capital's previous record high: 49.2C clocked in 2022.That year was India's hottest year since thorough records began in 1901, with sizzling temperatures following a global pattern of extreme weather driven by climate change.The temperature Wednesday morning in New Delhi and the wider sprawling metropolitan region of 30mn residents was a relatively balmy 29.4C.But weather forecasters predict temperatures will hit 41-43C later Wednesday, and rise to 42-44C later in the week.The India Meteorological Department has issued a "yellow alert" for Delhi, indicating the likelihood of a heatwave later in the week.On Tuesday, guidelines issued by the Delhi education directorate asked schools in the city to adopt a plethora of steps to shield students.They included avoiding "outdoor physical activities" and conducting "awareness sessions" to remind them of the importance of hydration."Outdoor assemblies to be curtailed or conducted in shaded/indoor areas with minimal duration," the note read. "No open air classes to be conducted."Quirkier directions are also on offer: schools have been asked to start a "water bell" initiative to prevent dehydration and also implement a "buddy system" for students to look out for each other."Schools shall implement a 'Water Bell' system, whereby a bell is rung at regular intervals (every 45-60 minutes) reminding students to drink water to prevent dehydration," the circular notes."Each student may be paired up with another student during school hours to monitor and take care of the each other's physical well-being," it added. 

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) announced that it will organise the 2026 summer language and culture camps in France, Germany, and Japan for outstanding Grade 11 Qatari students from public schools.In a statement, MoEHE said that this initiative is part of its strategic programmes designed to enhance language skills and promote cultural exchange, adding that this year's camps build on the success of previous editions.MoEHE added that through this initiative, it aims to strengthen students' proficiency in their target language and to broaden students' knowledge by exposing them to the host countries' cultures and traditions, thereby contributing to creating an open-minded and capable generation.The four-week programme will commence in July and see the Qatari male students undergo an interactive educational experience that includes intensive language courses and specialised workshops in the three countries, providing them with the opportunity to engage directly with students of diverse nationalities.The statement noted that the summer camps adopt a comprehensive approach that goes beyond academics to include sports and cultural activities, as well as field visits to historical landmarks. These activities help refine students' personal qualities and raise their awareness of educational opportunities available for pursuing university studies abroad.To ensure that Qatar is represented in the best manner, the ministry has established eligibility criteria, setting that applicants must be Qatari nationals of good conduct and are medically fit, in addition to having achieved an overall average of no less than 90% in the first semester certificate, with at least 85% in the foreign language subject and 90% in English.Candidates are also required to submit a CV and pass a personal interview conducted in both English and their respective foreign language to assess their readiness, enthusiasm for exploring other cultures, and ability to adapt to international educational environments.MoEHE emphasised that the summer camps are a valuable opportunity for students to apply what they have learned in the classroom in real-world environments.It called on interested students who meet the requirements to contact their school administrations to begin the registration and interview procedures, in alignment with the competencies and values of the Qatar National Curriculum Framework.  

Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University has opened applications for its 10th Summer Research Programme (SRP), offering undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge, faculty-led research. To take place from May 31 to July 16, the seven-week programme will bring together students from institutions across Qatar to exchange ideas while actively contributing to research that addresses national priorities covering precision medicine, disease prevention, and improved healthcare outcomes. Participants will benefit from QBRI’s faculty mentorship and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, applicants can align their research interests to topics across QBRI’s Diabetes Research Centre, Translational Oncology Research Centre, or Neurological Disorders Research Centre. The programme will bolster professional development by offering seminars and workshops that target critical skills needed for successful careers in scientific research. Participants will also have the chance to engage with the wider QBRI community and absorb insights in a diverse range of biomedical fields. Throughout the programme, activities will cover key areas including autism, cancer, and diabetes, conditions of significant relevance to Qatar and the wider region. By combining intensive mentorship, real-world contributions, and strong institutional support, the SRP strengthens national research capacity by preparing and empowering the next generation of biomedical research leaders. Dr Vladimir Katanaev, acting executive director and scientific director of Translational Oncology Research Centre, QBRI, stated: “Over the past decade, the Summer Research Program has helped cultivate a vibrant research community by giving students early exposure to rigorous, hands-on scientific inquiry. Initiatives like this are critical to opening pathways for research-focused careers, building the state’s capacity in this field and preparing the next generation of biomedical research leaders to drive innovation and scientific excellence.” SRP applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate programme in a biological or medical-related science and hold a minimum GPA of 3.0. 

Qatar University (QU)’s Young Scientists Centre (YSC) has concluded the seventh edition of its 2025 Summer Research Training Programme, which served as an exceptional platform for students to pursue academic and research excellence.The closing ceremony featured a research poster exhibition showcasing the innovative projects and creative achievements developed by participating students.This year’s programme provided the students opportunities to enhance research skills and engage in innovative projects across several vital fields, including energy and environment, health and biomedical sciences, information and communication technology, and social and human sciences.“Over the years, the programme has proven its effectiveness in empowering students to develop their research capabilities and progress from inquiry to scientific discovery,” said associate vice-president (Research and Graduate Studies) Dr Mohamed Alsafran.He noted that this year saw outstanding participation, with 245 students taking part in 34 research projects across various disciplines.Dr Alsafran emphasised that the programme’s success reflects the productive collaboration among the university’s research centres and colleges, which have actively contributed to strengthening the QU’s multidisciplinary research platform, supporting excellence and innovation, and reinforcing the university’s commitment to building national capacity and achieving sustainable development.Dr Zubair Ahmad, the head of Module Development and Publication at the YSC, highlighted that the Summer Research Training Programme serves as a cornerstone in fostering research capabilities among youth.He described it as a strategic platform that transforms students into researchers and innovators capable of addressing contemporary challenges.Dr Ahmad added that the programme provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in real scientific research designed to enhance their technical and research skills through collaborative work with experts and mentors.He further said that the programme focuses on capacity building, enabling students to acquire the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to contribute effectively to the knowledge-based economy envisioned in Qatar National Vision 2030.Among the winning projects were:* “The Effect of Catalyst Support Acidity and Basicity on CO₂ Conversion in the RWGS Reaction” in the Energy and Environment category, supervised by Dr Anand Kumar and Dr Parisa Ebrahimi from the College of Engineering.* “Years of Change: How University Life Shapes Students’ Dietary Habits and Physical Activity” in the Health and Biomedical Sciences category, led by Dr Rima Tayyem from the College of Health Sciences.* “A Smart Warning System for Distracted Motorcycle Riders Using Machine Learning Techniques” in the Information Technology category, supervised by Dr Qainat Hussain from the College of Engineering.* “Digital Transformation and AI Integration: Exploring Perceived Educational Benefits in Non-STEM Education” in the Social and Human Sciences category, supervised by Dr Julie Bhadra and Somaya Muneer from the YSC.These achievements reflected not only the quality of academic supervision but also the students’ ability to translate knowledge into pioneering research outcomes with tangible societal impact.The Summer Research Training Programme is one of the QU’s strategic initiatives, reflecting its commitment to developing students’ scientific capabilities and empowering them to become future research leaders capable of innovation and contributing to societal advancement.

Ministry of Sports and Youth concluded its 2025 summer activities with wide participation exceeding 43,000 participants, through more than 750 sports and youth events organized across various regions of the country.The Ministry confirmed in a statement that the success of these activities was due to the combined efforts of partners from various governmental and private sectors, notably the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Municipality, Ministry of Social Development and Family, Qatar Sports for All Federation, National Cyber Security Agency, Education City, Qatar Museums, alongside numerous sports clubs, media channels, and other entities.The ministry emphasized the continuation of its community and youth programs throughout the year to reinforce the role of sports in society, supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 in building a conscious and active generation. In this context, the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior, launched several summer programmes and activities to raise awareness and develop skills among youth. The most prominent of these was the awareness programme 'Aware Generation' which benefited 1,163 young men and women across 28 centers and youth organizations under the supervision of five trainers. Additionally, the Hina Salma Farm saw the participation of 4,686 young men and women from youth and girls’ centers, with an average daily participation of 158 attendees per center.In the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the Qatar Scientific Club and the Qatar Society of Engineers organised the summer program STEM 2025 with the participation of more than 141 students. Meanwhile, the summer data camp, organized in co-operation with the National Planning Council, Qatar Scientific Club, and Microsoft, hosted over 100 students competing in 20 teams to develop skills in analysis and artificial intelligence. Furthermore, 1,800 young men and women participated in events organized by the Programs and Activities Department at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal).The programmes varied between sports, recreational, and awareness activities, including events held at Lusail Sports Arena, Education City Stadium, Al Furjan playgrounds, and races in various public parks. Other specialised programs included 365 Days of Activity, Self-Defence Program, Steps Challenge, as well as dedicated events for youth and girls at youth centers.

Auto Class Cars, the authorised general distributor of MG in Qatar, is continuing its special summer offer on select cars of MG, giving new buyers the opportunity to leverage a package of benefits and the option to pay the monthly instalments starting next year.Running until September 30, the summer offer is valid on MG One, MG HS, and MG RX9. The full range of MG cars are presented at Auto Class showrooms on Salwa Road and Lusail.As per the offer, customers can get a new MG One for a monthly instalment starting from QR1,550, MG HS for monthly instalment of QR1,666, and MG RX9 for monthly instalment of QR2,299, with 10% down payment and six months deferred payment, varying by model.The offer allows new buyers to leverage several benefits including 1-year free registration and comprehensive insurance, free window tinting, and trade-in option. The MG continues its strong legacy with its longest-period warranty that lasts for six years or 200,000 km.The MG RX9 premium 7-seater SUV combines elegant design, advanced technology, and powerful driving performance, dedicated for modern lifestyle suitable for both city and outdoor use. It is available in two distinct trim levels: the mid-tier Com 2.0 Turbo, and the top-tier Lux 2.0 Turbo.At 1,967mm wide, the MG RX9 it has the widest body in its class. The Starburst Wing Grille, integrated with the sleek headlight design featuring 245 laser-engraved LED light units, further enhances its striking front profile. The other highlights include 21-inch wheels and six exterior colours inspired by nature.With its sporty design and advanced features, the new MG HS mid-size SUV offers a perfect balance of style, performance, and technology. Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, two engine options (1.5T power plant, delivering 173 hp with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, or the 2.0T engine, producing 231 hp with a 9-speed automatic transmission), superior handling dynamics, enhanced noise, vibration and harshness levels and three-spoke squaricle steering wheel are among the highlights.The MG One harnesses the latest technology with the introduction of SAIC Motor’s self-developed all-new modular Sigma architecture platform, housing a 1.5 Turbo unit delivering 181hp and max. torque of 285Nm – powering the vehicle to a top speed of 195 km/h.All models are equipped with an innovative seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission for smoother, more efficient gear changes and optimum reliability. The sporty mid-size SUV has a new three-dimension front grill, dual-tone colour scheme, a low and wide stance, sloping roofline, split rear protruding lights and a distinctive sport spoiler with a cut-out.

As students are set to resume classes soon for the new school year after the long summer holidays, tailoring shops at Al Ali Market have been enjoying brisk business to finish the orders for school uniforms and thobes (Qatari traditional dress for men) and other accessories.Local Arabic daily Arrayah reported that a number of Qataris have stressed their keenness to accompany their children to the tailors' shops to have new uniforms tailored and purchased, noting that prices are generally stable compared to the previous year.A considerable number of tailors and shop owners confirmed that the price of a thobe varies depending on whether it is ready-made or custom-tailored, in addition to the type and quality of fabric, whether it is light or heavy.They pointed out that some shops work until late at night during this period of the year to deliver thobes and school uniforms before the start of the academic year. They also noted the availability of different types of accessories, pointing out that the price of a thobe ranges between QR70 and QR140 depending on the size and quality.Mohamed Abdullah, owner of a tailoring shop in Al Ali Market, noted that many prefer to have thobes custom-tailored for their children so as to get a proper and comfortable fit.As for the most popular fabrics, he said that certain types of Japanese fabric, suitable for high temperatures during most months of the year is sought after by customers. He added that shops work until late at night to ensure timely delivery of the thobes, while demand increases significantly just a few days before the start of the school year, as many parents have returned recently from vacation.Mubarak al-Mansouri, a parent, confirmed that he has been going to the same tailoring shop in Al Ali Market for almost 15 years, noting that fabric prices vary depending on the type. He added that tailoring a thobe usually takes between three to four days.Mohammed Bu Rashid, who came with his children to have school thobes tailored in preparation for the new academic year, explained that the market offers all types of fabrics used for tailoring thobes. He added that prices have remained stable and affordable.He pointed out that people generally prefer light, bright white fabrics as they are most suitable for the hot weather. In addition, the appropriate accessories are selected for each child according to his height and preferences.

The National Planning Council (NPC) has concluded the "Data Summer Camp 2025" organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Youth (MSY), represented by the Qatar Scientific Club (QSC).The camp was held over five days at the Club’s headquarters in Doha.The camp welcomed 125 participants who had the opportunity to explore Qatar’s Open Data Portal, which hosts more than 1,100 datasets covering various economic, social, and service sectors.They also worked on developing innovative solutions, including interactive dashboards using Microsoft Power BI, smart applications, and predictive models based on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms.These efforts strengthened their ability to link real-world challenges with modern digital tools and implement projects that contribute to the Qatar National Vision 2030.The programme featured specialised workshops, practical exercises, and applied projects inspired by the needs and development aspirations of Qatari society.This enriched the participants’ experience and enhanced their skills in deriving analytical insights and effectively utilising data.During the closing ceremony, the top three winning teams in both categories, high school and university students aged 15-22, were honoured.The ceremony included final presentations by the shortlisted teams, where participants presented their projects designed to provide practical solutions aligned with the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030.In the high school category, Team Mesaieed won first place for a project on using solar energy in households to reduce natural gas consumption and contribute to the transition toward renewable energy and sustainable development.Team Smaisma secured second place for a project proposing solutions to prevent water waste and showcasing datasets that could help raise awareness of this critical issue.Team Al Sadd came third with a project analysing the number of students with disabilities and the dedicated staff supporting them.In the university category, Team Tamkeen claimed first place for a project creating a platform for persons with disabilities aimed at reducing employment gaps compared to their peers.Team Al Khor came second for a project analysing national databases to identify the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions and electricity consumption, providing insights to integrate renewable energy sources and implement measures to reduce Qatar’s carbon footprint.Team Reginald won third place for a project analysing Qatar’s import and export activities using Harmoniszed System (HS) codes and linking them to a *CO₂ emissions database, enabling precise and targeted environmental analysis.The director of the NPC’s National Data Affairs Department, Maha Rashid al-Mattwi, emphasised the importance of this camp as part of a series of regular initiatives and activities organised by the Council to promote innovation, encourage youth to develop skills in statistical analysis and AI, and harness the power of data to support Qatar’s economy."The Data Summer Camp is an important step toward preparing a new generation capable of understanding the language of numbers, analysing data, and transforming information into tools for development and innovation,” she said."We believe Qatar’s future depends on nurturing young minds and equipping them with the tools of digital transformation so they can play an active role in nation-building and in realising its ambitious vision," al-Mattwi added.

Hamad International Airport has facilitated a “smooth and efficient journey” for returning travelers as the summer holiday season concludes and the new school year commences.Using the car park for pick-ups: For picking up arriving passengers at the airport, HIA said it is advisable to use the parking facilities to ensure smooth traffic flow, enhance safety and convenience, and avoid penalties for parking at the curbside.Flexible travel options to the city: Upon entering the Arrivals Hall, several reliable transportation options are available to reach Doha.Ride-hailing services: Uber and Badrgo are available at the designated pick-up zone in the parking facility opposite the Arrivals Hall.Doha Metro: A short indoor walk leads directly to the Metro station, connecting travellers to key destinations across the city.Taxis and buses: Authorized taxis and buses are available at the dedicated pavilions on each corner of the Arrivals Hall, ensuring service quality, safety, and reliable lost-and-found support.Other Options: Car rental, limousine, and valet services are available at both Departures and Arrivals.Baggage collection: Collecting bags at the airport has been designed to ensure a smooth and convenient experience. Oversized items such as strollers and wheelchairs are delivered on dedicated baggage belts A and B.It is recommended that fragile belongings be packed in hard-shell luggage to prevent damage. Passengers should verify their baggage tags before leaving the airport. For assistance, the Baggage Services Office is in the Arrivals Hall.Immigration processes: E-gates provide a convenient method for completing immigration procedures swiftly. Eligible travellers arriving in Doha, including families with children taller than 130cm, can utilise the service for a more efficient arrival experience.Hamad International Airport is dedicated to ensuring that the final step of the journey for returning travellers to Doha is simple, safe, and stress-free. This commitment allows passengers to focus on settling back in and preparing for the season ahead.