Doha, Qatar – July 19, 2025  — Qabayan Radio 94.3 FM, the pioneering Filipino radio station in Qatar, has officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICpEP) Qatar Chapter, marking the start of a meaningful collaboration aimed at serving the Filipino community. The agreement was formalized on Saturday, July 19, 2025, with Qabayan Radio Station Manager Glend Tesio, also known as RJ Cody, and ICpEP Qatar President Engr. Lenelio O. Morga leading the signing ceremony. The MoU outlines the mutual commitment of both organizations to develop and deliver programs that not only inform and empower the Filipino audience in Qatar but also provide valuable opportunities for members of both groups. This partnership is expected to open doors for collaborative initiatives in the fields of computer technology, public service, and community engagement, benefiting the growing number of Filipinos working and residing in the country.

Qatar Tourism has revealed a distinguished ten-member jury panel of local and international experts for its third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. These eagerly awaited awards honour organisations and individuals known for consistently delivering exceptional tourism experiences in Qatar. The Qatar Tourism Awards is an initiative by Qatar Tourism, developed in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), aimed at recognising individuals and businesses across the tourism and hospitality sector in Qatar for their remarkable contributions to service excellence. The panel is tasked with carefully evaluating tourism businesses that demonstrate excellence across seven primary categories: Service Excellence, Gastronomic Experiences, Iconic Attractions and Activities, World-Class Events, Digital Footprint, Smart and Sustainable Tourism, and Community Leadership. These categories, along with 37 sub-categories, reflect key dimensions of both the visitor and resident experience. The jury includes the following distinguished members: HE Hamad Al Mulla, Vice-Chairman of the Education, Culture, Sport and Information Committee of the Shura Council & the Chairman of the External Affairs, Political and National Security Committee of the Arab Parliament; Mr. Andrew Stokes, OBE – Visit England Director; Aurélie Bouti, Travel Content Creator; Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director SME Development at Qatar Development Bank; Gregor Rankin,  Food and Travel Magazine, Publisher & CEO; Samer Al-Kharashi, Director- Regional Office for the Middle East UN Tourism; Marcel Leijzer, Deputy Director, Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department - UN Tourism; Dr. Abdulla Al-Mehshadi Ph.D. Eng., CEO of Al Wa’ab City; Ramzan Al Naimi, Innovation Expert and Prof. Rana Al Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University. Meet the Judges: Qatar Tourism Awards Panel Biographies H.E. Hamad Al Mulla is a seasoned tourism and hospitality executive with a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Marriott, Doha Club, and Katara Hospitality. He currently serves in senior parliamentary positions, including Vice-Chairman of the Shura Council’s Education, Culture, Sport and Information Committee, and Chairman of the Arab Parliament’s External Affairs Committee. Samer Al-Kharashi , appointed UN Tourism Regional Director for the Middle East in 2024, brings over two decades of diplomatic experience to the role. A seasoned Saudi diplomat, he now leads efforts to advance sustainable tourism and regional competitiveness across the Middle East. Marcel Leijzer joined UN Tourism in 2006, where he is Deputy Director, Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department - UN Tourism. His main task is to coordinate the formulation and implementation of tourism projects related to strategy development, marketing, poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and capacity building.  Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer serves as Executive Director of SME Development at Qatar Development Bank, leading national strategies that empower local businesses in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. With advanced degrees from SBS and HEC Paris, he also contributes to multiple boards, championing sustainable economic growth. Dr. Abdulla Hassa Al-Mehshadi Ph.D., Eng is the CEO of Al Wa'ab City and has held several other leadership positions. He previously served as CEO of Msheireb Properties, Maintenance Manager of Qatar Fertilizer Company (QAFCO), Consultant to the Minster of Environment, Managing Director of Private Engineering Office.  Andrew Stokes , OBE, is the Director of Visit England and architect of the £40m Discover England Fund, driving tourism innovation and SME market access through platforms like TXGB. He has led national initiatives including DMO accreditation and business recovery programmes, earning an OBE in 2023 for services to tourism. Ramzan Rashid Al Naimi , Innovation Expert and Entrepreneur.  A certified practitioner (Level 1) in Innovation Management. With more than 23 years of experience in the media, marketing and branding industry, he founded two companies specialized in the field of design, media production, and innovation. Prof. Rana Sobh is a Professor of Marketing and Dean of The College of Business and Economics at Qatar University. Throughout her career, she has contributed to several national and international projects and served on many local and international organizations’ advisory boards.  Aurélie Bouti is a globally recognised French travel content creator, known for her immersive storytelling and creative campaigns with top tourism boards. With over 5 million followers, she has been ranked France’s number one travel influencer since 2023 and the world’s best in 2025. Gregor Rankin is the award-winning Publisher and CEO of Food and Travel magazine, globally recognised as the leading title in gastronomic travel. With a track record of successful media launches, he co-founded the magazine and its international editions, events, and acclaimed Reader Awards. The carefully selected panel of judges will evaluate submissions expected to surpass last year’s total of over 800 entries from across the sector. Winners will receive extensive promotion locally, regionally, and internationally to enhance their visibility. The winners of the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards will be revealed during a formal ceremony taking place in November 2025. The Qatar Tourism Awards is open to all businesses and individuals in the tourism sector. The Awards is a benchmark for excellence, highlighting the nation’s top tourism offerings, services and innovations and outstanding achievers. It is a chance to help set the standard for the tourism industry and recognise those who elevate Qatar’s tourism reputation on the global stage. Winning the prestigious Qatar Tourism Awards is a demonstration of excellence that strengthens brand equity, shapes businesses or careers and to gain nationally and internationally recognition.   Submissions are a simple process where the applicants need to answer 5 unique questions and attach supporting documents. The application portal launched on May 19, and the deadline for applications submission is August 7 th , 2025. For application guidelines and more information, please visit https://www.qatartourism.com/en/service-excellence/qatar-tourism-awards or email QTAwards@visitqatar.qa

Built to thrill, the all-new model is the fastest and most powerful Nissan Z to date Doha, Qatar (14 July, 2025)  – Nissan has officially introduced the all-new Z NISMO to the Middle East, elevating its storied sports car lineage with a purpose-built model engineered for driving enthusiasts. Representing the pinnacle of the Z lineup, the Z NISMO blends technical refinement with bold design, bringing track-tuned performance to the road.   The all-new Z NISMO elevates the iconic sports car's performance with additional horsepower and torque, NISMO-tuned suspension and brakes, revised aerodynamic bodywork, stiffened suspension, and wider wheels with a more aggressive tire compound. Building on the excitement of the standard Z, interior enhancements include red-anodized engine-start and drive mode buttons, Recaro seats and a leather and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with a red marker at the 12 o'clock position.   Thierry Sabbagh, President of Nissan Middle East and INFINITI and Divisional Vice President for KSA, Middle East, and CIS , said: “The all-new Nissan Z NISMO is a sports car that is built to thrill. More than just excitement, it is crafted to stir the soul, offering exhilarating track-ready capability and boosting the pride of those who cherish its rich legacy and unparalleled performance. This model is a direct response to our customers' passion and our commitment to deliver thrilling innovation.”   Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co ., commented: ”Qatar’s automotive market is driven by a genuine passion for performance and precision, values that are fully embodied in the all-new Nissan Z NISMO. This isn’t just another sports car; it’s a bold statement for enthusiasts who appreciate engineering excellence, motorsport heritage, and the pure thrill of driving. The Z NISMO introduces a new level of excitement to our Nissan lineup in Qatar, and we’re confident it will strongly resonate with customers seeking something truly powerful and emotionally engaging.”   The all-new Z NISMO builds on a proud legacy spanning more than 50 years, deeply rooted in Nissan’s rich motorsport heritage. Since the debut of the original Nissan Z in 1969, the iconic sports car has captured the imagination of driving enthusiasts globally. NISMO, Nissan’s dedicated motorsport division established in 1984, has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance, technology, and racing excellence. By combining decades of racing innovation and engineering expertise, the all-new Z NISMO proudly upholds this storied tradition, offering enthusiasts a vehicle that embodies pure driving exhilaration and motorsport pedigree.   TRACK-TUNED PERFORMANCE   Powered by a NISMO-tuned 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 420 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque, the all-new Z NISMO delivers a performance gain of +20 hp and +45 Nm over the standard model. Peak torque is delivered from 2,000 through 5,200 rpm, ensuring drivers have strong performance across the rev range. This enhanced output enables a top speed of 279 km/h - 29 km/h faster than its base counterpart – while GT-R-inspired ignition control and an additional intercooler bolster engine cooling for sustained high-speed runs   Paired with a NISMO-calibrated 9-speed automatic transmission, the all-new Z NISMO features shortened clutch stroke and enhanced heat capacity to enable faster shifts. The exclusive SPORT+ mode delivers up to 50% quicker downshifts, refined throttle mapping, and improved steering response, offering sharper acceleration and control under spirited driving.   The chassis has been reinforced for a 2.5% increase in torsional body rigidity. A comprehensive suspension upgrade includes NISMO-tuned bushings, stiffer springs, stiffer stabilizers, and revised dampers for confident cornering. Stiffened engine mounts and Akebono performance brakes with 15” front rotors and high-friction pads ensure responsiveness and reliability.   AERODYNAMIC STYLING   The all-new Nissan Z NISMO’s exterior design draws directly from motorsport influences. A NISMO-exclusive front fascia with an aperture honeycomb grille – the thinnest honeycomb mesh of any Nissan production car – improves cooling and reduces drag. Canard winglets, an extended G-Nose splitter, and GT-R NISMO-inspired rear bumper corners manage airflow and increase downforce. A three-piece rear spoiler that extends onto the rear fenders and a rear diffuser stabilizes the sports car at high speeds.   Lightweight 19-inch RAYS forged alloy wheels wrapped in wider 285/35 R19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600 tires - a version of which are also used on the GT-R - offer greater grip and lateral control, particularly during high-speed transitions. Red accents line the lower body and mirror housings, while an LED rear fog light inspired by Nissan’s Formula E car visually reinforces its performance DNA.   Inside, the Z NISMO cockpit is tailored for performance. RECARO® bucket seats with Alcantara inserts provide lateral support and increased rigidity for greater control. A red center marker adorns the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, while a NISMO-specific tachometer and red-accented interior trims create a racing-inspired ambiance.   The all-new Nissan Z NISMO is available in five distinctive exterior colors, Black Diamond Pearl, Brilliant Silver, Solid Red, Pearl White and NISMO-exclusive Stealth Grey, with an optional black roof providing a bold two-tone look. Inside, the Z NISMO features an exclusive Graphite Red Leather and Alcantara® interior with striking red accents, further emphasizing its motorsport-inspired heritage and high-performance character.   THRILLING DRIVING EXPERIENCE   Specially tuned by NISMO, the Launch Control system ensures optimal traction off the line with minimal wheel spin, enabling repeatable, high-precision starts for drivers seeking maximum acceleration. Equally important are the upgraded cooling and braking systems that offer enhanced cooling and fade-resistant stopping power under sustained stress. Crafted for tactile feedback, the brushed aluminum pedals enhance the performance driving experience while elevating the cabin’s motorsport-inspired character.   From the track-tuned powertrain and responsive suspension to the race-derived aerodynamics and focused cabin design, the all-new Nissan Z NISMO is built to thrill. Boosting the pride of those who cherish its rich legacy and unparalleled performance, the all-new Z NISMO will be available soon, at Nissan’s partner in Qatar, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.  showrooms — the exclusive agent for Nissan in Qatar.   For more information visit Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. showrooms — the exclusive agent for Nissan in Qatar showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.

Doha, Qatar, 13 July 2025 : Qatar National Library (QNL), home of the IFLA Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Office, has honored two emerging library professionals as the first recipients of the QIMAM: Qatar-IFLA MENA Award for Aspiring Minds. Raghad Ghanem Alqahtani from Saudi Arabia and Salma Mohamed Ayoub from Egypt were recognized for their leadership potential and community impact. The award provides librarians with the opportunity to attend the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in Kazakhstan from 18 to 22 August 2025. Launched to foster the development of future industry leaders, the QIMAM Award attracted strong interest, with 40 applicants from across the MENA region. Following a rigorous selection process, eight candidates advanced to interviews held on 21 and 22 June. The finalists represented Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon. A distinguished panel of experts evaluated the candidates based on their contributions to the profession and their commitment to advancing libraries. The panel included Professor Hassan Awad AlSereihi, President of the Special Libraries Association, Arabian Gulf Chapter; Dr. Heba Ismail, Vice President of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information; Mrs. Anfel Toafek from Algeria, a member of the IFLA MENA Regional Division Committee; Mr. Mohammed Saif, Director of Communication at QNL; and Mr. Maxim Nasra, Head of the Preservation and Conservation Center at QNL. Professor AlSereihi praised the QIMAM Award as a “brilliant initiative,” which was led by Ms. Eiman Al-Shammari of the IFLA Regional Office and Qatar National Library. “I was pleased to participate in evaluating the applicants who met the criteria. Listening to their stories, ambitions and career paths was both enlightening and encouraging,” he said. “I was deeply impressed by their knowledge, dedication and aspirations for the future. I only wish there had been four or more awards available to recognize the many distinguished candidates. The final selections were based on a fair evaluation process that reflected the collective judgment of the committee. I congratulate the two winners and encourage the rest to continue pursuing their goals. They, too, were exceptional." Dr. Ismail said she was honored to serve on the evaluation committee. “The experience was truly inspiring, offering me the opportunity to witness the passion and professionalism of the emerging generation of librarians in our region. The applicants’ diverse backgrounds and experiences reflect the dynamic growth of the sector. This initiative not only provides valuable professional opportunities, but also helps foster a cohesive regional community that champions innovation and development. I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Qatar National Library and the IFLA Regional Office for their commitment to empowering young professionals. I am proud to support their efforts and their ambitious vision." Abeer S. Al Kuwari, Director of National Collections and Special Initiatives at QNL, noted that the Library was proud to honor two outstanding individuals with the QIMAM Award. "This initiative aligns perfectly with QNL’s mission to foster professional growth and regional collaboration. We are excited to see the lasting impact these emerging professionals will have on the community." Commenting further on the importance of the initiative, Ms. Alshamari, the Acting Manager of the National Collection at Qatar National Library and the Manager of the IFLA Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, said the award reflects the Library’s strong belief in the power of youth to shape the future of the profession in the MENA region. “We are honored today to support the next generation of library leaders and to play a role in the journey of two aspiring minds who demonstrated strong leadership potential. We look forward to seeing their contributions,” she said. The awardees will gain access to global best practices and an international network of professionals, advancing their personal development and further strengthening libraries in the region. QNL has been at the forefront of knowledge-sharing and regional collaboration. The QIMAM Award reflects the library's commitment to developing librarianship across the region, an effort that gained momentum following QNL’s designation as the first IFLA MENA Regional Office in 2023. The IFLA World Library and Information Congress will take place from 18 to 22 August 2025. Registration for the event is still open. For more information and to register, please visit: https://2025.ifla.org/home/welcome-message/

Doha, July 13, 2025:  The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has opened a public consultation to seek feedback on the updated Retail Tariff Instruction (RTI) 2025. This consultation is part of CRA’s ongoing efforts to develop regulatory frameworks and adapt to changes in the telecommunications sector.   The updated version builds on the original Decision of the President of the CRA No. (3) of 2018, issuing the Retail Tariff Instruction which laid the foundation for Qatar’s retail tariff regulatory framework and has been in force since January 1, 2019.   The RTI applies to all licensed service providers who offer telecom services to the public in Qatar. It sets out rules, procedures, and requirements for retail offers for telecommunications services.   The 2025 revision introduces several important updates, drawing on the experience accumulated by the CRA in the process of retail tariff regulation since the RTI came into force, and aligning with international best practice.   These include enhanced tariff classification, stricter provisions on service periods and exit penalties, clearer guidance for promotional and bespoke tariffs, and expanded reporting requirements for loyalty programs. And expanding the flexibility in providing a variety of services, enhancing consumer value while ensuring regulatory compliance.   By allowing the CRA to review each service provider’s retail offers before they are introduced into the market, and instructing service providers on the extent and type of information that must be published for each offer, the RTI ensures consumers are equipped with the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. In 2024 alone, CRA reviewed over 350 tariff submissions, covering pricing, service durations, promotional terms, and exit conditions.   Since 2008, service providers have also been required to publish approved tariffs on their websites, ensuring public transparency and access to accurate pricing information.   The public consultation on this revised RTI aims to ensure that consumers continue to benefit from high-quality telecom services in line with global standards.   It forms part of the CRA’s ongoing strategy to promote connectivity, collaboration, and digital transformation within Qatar’s ICT sector, ensuring the public has an opportunity to comment on the rules and processes that govern the offering of telecommunications services in Qatar. In line with Qatar National Vision 2030, the consultation supports the national objective of building a competitive, transparent, and consumer-focused telecom market.   The Retail Tariff Instruction 2025 draft and related documents are available on the CRA website at the following link:   https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/document/public-consultation-retail-tariff-instruction-2025     CRA invites stakeholders and interested parties to submit their input by 31 August 2025 via email to RTI2025@cra.gov.qa .

Doha, Qatar – 9 July 2025 . Silver Lake Motors—a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding— is proud to announce that  OMODA & JAECOO , a global personalized automotive brand has rapidly positioned itself as one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing names in the international auto industry. In just two years , OMODA & JAECOO has expanded to 41 countries , with cumulative sales surpassing 540,000 units , setting a new pace for the sector.   Driven by a forward-looking strategy that combines innovation, electrification, and deep market integration, the brand has quickly become a standout in the global mobility transformation.   Ms. Ping Ding, Operation Manager of Silver Lake Motors commented, “Qatar is an important market for OMODA & JAECOO, as it reflects the brand’s core values of innovation, ambition, and a clear vision for the future. In line with its commitment to Qatar’s 2030 vision, the brand is introducing advanced new energy vehicles, including JAECOO J6 EV, JAECOO J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) and much more, that support intelligent mobility and environmental sustainability.”   She continued, “This shared focus on innovation and long-term impact will also be reflected in the brand’s flagship showroom, set to open in Lusail later this year. More than just a display space, the showroom will offer an immersive introduction to the OMODA & JAECOO world, bringing its design philosophy and future-oriented values to life in a setting that aligns with Qatar’s progressive vision.”   As one of the region’s most promising automotive markets, Qatar continues to see growing demand for next-generation vehicles that align with national sustainability goals and customer expectations for cutting-edge design and performance. Our commitment is to support the evolving needs of this dynamic market and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of transportation here and beyond.”   Rapid Global Expansion Since its inception, OMODA & JAECOO  has broken industry records by becoming the first emerging auto brand to surpass 500,000 units sold in under two years . As of May 2025, its total global sales reached 540,000 , propelled by strong market demand and a bold global-first approach. In the rapidly evolving new energy segment, the brand recorded a 370% year-on-year growth in NEV (New Energy Vehicle) sales  in Q1 2025. The OMODA C5 , the brand’s first global model, has proven to be a bestseller, achieving over 10,000 units sold  within just ten months. Building on this success, the upcoming global release of the JAECOO J5 , a rugged yet refined light off-road SUV, and the OMODA C7 , a high-tech NEO crossover, is set to drive the next phase of international expansion.   The JAECOO J5 , tailored for regional lifestyles, offers top-tier off-road performance, pet-friendly features, and outdoor-living versatility—highlighting the brand’s focus on lifestyle-oriented innovation.   Strong Middle East Foundation In the Middle East , OMODA & JAECOO  has strategically launched in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE . A major milestone in the region is the opening of a 12,000-square-meter regional spare parts and service center , now the largest of its kind for any Chinese auto brand in the Middle East . This facility enables a 95% parts fulfillment rate  and 24-hour VOR (Vehicle-Off-Road) delivery , greatly enhancing after-sales responsiveness and customer satisfaction.   Growth Across Europe and Latin America OMODA & JAECOO has rapidly expanded its presence in Europe since launching in Spain in early 2024, quickly entering seven key markets including Italy, Poland, and the UK, where it now operates over 300 showrooms and achieved a 1.8% market share by selling more than 3,000 units in May, becoming the fastest-growing new auto brand there. In Latin America, the brand has also gained strong momentum, particularly in Brazil, where overall sales increased 87% month-on-month shortly after launch, with the J7 SHS model doubling its sales through a 107% monthly growth, solidifying OMODA & JAECOO as a competitive player in the region.   OMODA & JAECOO has garnered attention for its youth-focused vehicles that merge striking design, state-of-the-art technology, and exceptional performance. The brand is set to pilot in a new era of automotive excellence, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Through this partnership, Silver Lake Motors  reinforces its commitment to bringing premium, eco-conscious vehicles to the local customers.   For more information or to book your test drive, please call 8001115 .

Doha, Qatar — 06 July 2025  – Steigenberger Hotel Doha, a flagship property under H World International, proudly announces its latest CSR initiative: a Blood Donation Campaign  in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) . This meaningful event invites the community to come together and make a difference—one drop at a time.   The blood drive will take place at Berlin Hall, 1st Floor of Steigenberger Hotel Doha , on 8 July 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM . All eligible donors—including hotel and residence guests, employees, and members of the public—are welcome to participate. The HMC donation team will ensure a safe, hygienic, and efficient  donation experience in support of this life-saving cause.   “Our commitment to community health goes beyond hospitality,” said Mr. Sherief Abouelmagd, Area General Manager of Steigenberger Hotel Doha. “Hosting this blood donation campaign reflects our dedication to social responsibility and our desire to support the healthcare needs of Qatar.”   Why Donate? Every donation can save up to three lives. In a world where emergencies are unpredictable, your blood can be someone’s lifeline.   The event is open to all healthy individuals aged 18 to 60 . Participants are kindly requested to bring a valid ID.   Complimentary refreshments  will be served to all donors as a token of appreciation for their contribution.   To register , please call Steigenberger Hotel Doha at +974 4020 1666 .

Visit Qatar has officially opened the third edition of the Qatar Toy Festival at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), welcoming families and visitors to enjoy a month-long celebration of entertainment, play, and creativity running until 4 August 2025. The opening day featured a vibrant ceremony that began with a surprise flash mob led by the Q Crew in Cutie Pie Land , followed by live entertainment, character appearances, balloon giveaways, and a showstopping balloon drop. The festival brings together live shows, meet-and-greets, a dedicated QTF Summer Camp, and new retail and F&B offerings. Tickets are available online at Q-Tickets, Virgin Megastore, Platinumlist, and Fever, or at the DECC entry gates.

Doha, July 6, 2025:  The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) announced the onboarding of KaopuCloud, a global edge-cloud provider, and Mibura, a data center and cloud solutions provider, to the Qatar Internet Exchange Point (QIXP). The move supports Qatar’s growing digital infrastructure and advances its position as a leading hub for regional internet traffic. Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi, Director of Technical Affairs at CRA and Chair of the QIXP Steering Committee Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi, Director of Technical Affairs at the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) and Chair of the QIXP Steering Committee, stated: “the addition of KaopuCloud and Mibura aligns with CRA’s strategic objective to localize digital content and cloud workloads within Qatar. With the deployment of a route server operating under an open peering policy, QIXP enables all participants to interconnect efficiently through a single access point. This translates into lower latency for users, reduced transit costs for providers, and a stronger foundation for digital innovation.”   Established in 2020, QIXP is a non-profit, carrier-neutral exchange that facilitates domestic traffic exchange among internet service providers, government entities, academic institutions, and content networks. By enabling local data routing, QIXP enhances network performance, security, and resilience—supporting CRA’s digital transformation agenda and the broader objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.   As of May 2025, the number of active QIXP participants has reached 19, reflecting growing demand for local interconnection. Qatar also recently hosted the first GCC working group on data flow and traffic exchange, reinforcing its leadership in regional collaboration on internet infrastructure.   KaopuCloud brings over two decades of global expertise in operating low-latency edge nodes in more than 50 cities, and over 150 data centers. Mibura, with a global presence in over 200 cities provides scalable cloud and hosting solutions in partnership with major global tech companies.   The continued expansion of QIXP is expected to deliver tangible benefits across the digital ecosystem. Localizing traffic helps improve the performance of essential digital services such as video streaming, cloud applications, and content delivery while providing a secure, sovereign platform for hosting data within the country. For enterprises and service providers, QIXP offers efficient, cost-effective access to global and regional content delivery networks, streamlining connectivity through a single, localized point of exchange.

Visit Qatar has announced the return of the highly successful Qatar Toy Festival (QTF), now in its third edition, taking place from 6 July to 4 August 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), with Ooredoo as telecom partner. As a flagship event on Qatar’s summer calendar, this year’s festival features new live shows, immersive activations, and, for the first time, a dedicated QTF Summer Camp for children and young teens. Spanning more than 17,000 sqm, the festival will include five zones: Fancy Island for girls, Champions Land for boys and teenagers, Cutie Pie Land for pre-school, Hyper Land for inflatables and a main stage. Families can enjoy more than 10 daily stage shows, including musical performances, science demos, dance acts, competitions, and several celebrity appearances including AboFlah and the ALJ Sisters. The festival will also feature 10 retail outlets, including Build-A-Bear and Mumuso, along with a F&B court offering favourites such as Exit55, Juniors, Belgian Fries, and Pizza Box. Commenting on the festival, Hamad Al-Khaja, Manager of Festivals & Events Delivery at Visit Qatar, said: “We are delighted to announce the return of the Qatar Toy Festival as part of our dynamic summer calendar. This edition marks a new milestone with the launch of the QTF Summer Camp and Back to School programme, offering additional opportunities for children to learn, play, and connect in fun and meaningful ways. From beloved toy brands and live shows to hands-on workshops and character meet-and-greets, the festival promises memorable moments for visitors of all ages.” New Activations This Year: Visitors can look forward to the following experiences being introduced this year: Ultimate Horror House  experience with Five Nights at Freddy’s special merchandise, an immersive horror house experience that brings your worst nightmares, offering a suspense-filled environment with interactive elements. PUBG Mobile laser guns' real-life experience is an action-packed activation that recreates the popular battle royale game in a physical setting. As part of the PUBG battleground at Qatar Toy Festival, a major competition will be held, with a Jetour car  as the grand prize. Sherlock Holmes Escape Room  is a themed escape room set in a Victorian-era environment, where participants work in teams to solve puzzles and uncover clues before time runs out. Lilo & Stitch activation is also coming to QTF, bringing island experiences, fun photo opportunities, and interactive experiences for all ages. In addition, Abu Flah  will make his first appearance at the festival with a special activation that includes a new animation premiere, an interactive session, and meet and greet. In the final week, as part of the Back-to-School programme, Egyptian educator Al Daheeh will present an animated debut followed by a motivational talk on school life. New retail offerings  this year include Labubu and Haribo products . QTF Summer Camp:   This edition will see the introduction of the QTF Summer Camp , a dynamic and structured programme tailored to children aged 4 to 12. Operating daily from 8:00 to 13:00 throughout the duration of the festival, except Fridays, the camp offers a variety of engaging, educational, and recreational experiences. Children enrolled in the camp will enjoy sessions in art and design, science experiments led by Science Street, interactive play with beloved characters, and a range of physical activities such as obstacle courses and movement games. The camp accommodates up to 150 children across different age groups and is priced at QAR 750 per week or QAR 2,000 for the full month. Back to School: This year’s edition will also feature a new “Back to School”  programme that will run during the festival’s final week, featuring themed shows, competitions, and prize giveaways. Retailers will also highlight Back to School products, offering families a wide selection ahead of the new academic year. Tickets and Timings: Qatar Toy Festival will be open from 14:00 until 22:00 on weekdays, and 14:00 until 23:00 on weekends. There are five ticket categories available: Entry Ticket for QAR 50, Ultimate Fun Ticket for QAR 80, Fast Track Ticket for QAR 300, Family Entry for QAR 200, and VVIP Ticket for QAR 1,500. For reservations, tickets, and family passes, visit: Virgin MegaStore:  https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa/family/29242/qatar-toy-festival-2025 Platinumlist:  https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/qatar-toy-festival QTickets:  https://events.q-tickets.com/qatar/eventdetails/6279895732/qatar-toys-festival-2025 Fever:  http://feverup.com/m/384868/ar?utm_source=landing&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=384868_doh&utm_term=41036

Qatar, June 16, 2025 . CREWQ: THE CONQUEST CONTINUES − The CREWQ Team, representing the prestigious MFEC Street dance School, is thrilled to announce its participation in the UDO Worlds Street Dance Championships in the UK this August. Comprised of the most talented students from the school, the team will compete in the U8, U10, and U12 Beginners categories completing with our support group the Parents Team. Under the visionary leadership of Team Director and choreographer Aristotle Hernandez, the team has crafted dynamic pieces that embody the strength and power of hip hop. Their choreography brilliantly blends various foundations of street dance, including afro, lite feet, femme, k−pop, house dance and breakdance, showcasing the team's creativity and dedication to the art form. The CREWQ Team has been diligently preparing for this prestigious event, engaging in intensive training sessions with renowned masters of street dance styles from around the globe. This preparation not only enhances their skills but also fuels their hopeful spirit as they aim for victory at the championships. " We are incredibly proud of our team and the hard work they have put in to reach this level, " said Aristotle Hernandez. " Our goal is to inspire and showcase the true essence of street dance while representing Qatar on an international stage. " As the CREWQ Team gears up for this exciting competition, they invite supporters and dance enthusiasts to cheer them on as they embark on this remarkable journey. Watch CREWQ event and performances: June 22 to August 07 MFEC Dance Camp with international dance artist masterclasses at Vault Studio July 26 Performance tour local school and brand visits August 08 CREWQ: Send−off Show August 13 to 17 UDO World Championship in Blackpool UK About United Dance Organization − UDO: Established in 2002, UDO is the world's largest international street dance organization, and fastest growing street, hip− hop and commercial dance brand globally. UDO's mission is to provide dancers of all ages, levels, backgrounds, abilities and disabilities, a positive and supportive platform to unleash their creativity and passion. UDO believes in making street, hip hop, and commercial dance inclusive for all. Whether dancing for fun, fitness, or with the aim of training to become a professional dancer, UDO's philosophy is to help dancers achieve their goals. UDO World Championship 2025: Scheduled to be held at Winter Gardens in the UK August 14, 2024, the United World Dance Championship is known as the best street dance and hip−hop dancer in the World with qualifying events running throughout the year in the UK and Europe. At the event, thousands of dancers from across the globe come together to compete for World Champion titles in front of the world's best Street Dance and Hip−Hop dance celebrity judges. The UDO World Street Dance Championships is the height of the annual Street Dance and Hip−Hop dance competition calendar. For media inquiries, please contact: Aristotle Hernandez , Team Director MFEC Street Dance aristotle@mfecstreetdance.com / mfecstreetdance.com 31491934

Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with Discover Qatar, has announced the return of Whale Shark tours for the 2025 season, during a launch event held at Place Vendôme. The tours offer residents and visitors a rare opportunity to witness one of Qatar’s most unique natural experiences. Qatar’s northern waters host one of the world’s largest aggregations of whale sharks. The Whale Shark Tours aim to promote ecotourism by allowing guests to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, while ensuring minimal disturbance to the marine environment. The tours also provide educational insights into whale shark behaviour and Qatar’s conservation efforts to protect these endangered animals. The return of the Whale Shark Tours has been made possible through close coordination with key entities from both the private and public sectors, including Qatar Energy, the Ministry of Municipality, Mawani Qatar, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change,Qatar Airways, and the General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security. These partnerships strengthen the tour’s operational framework and contribute significantly to enhancing the service delivery and overall visitor experience. Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Chief of Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are proud to welcome the return of the Whale Shark Tours, one of Qatar’s most distinctive ecotourism experiences. This initiative highlights our dedication to sustainable tourism and showcases the richness of Qatar’s marine biodiversity. Our preparations for the upcoming Whale Shark Tours have been greatly strengthened by the valuable contributions of our government and semi-government partners, whose collaboration reflects a shared commitment to delivering an exceptional and environmentally responsible visitor experience.” Operated by Discover Qatar, the tours promise a unique adventure aboard a premium catamaran, led by expert marine guides. Guests will enjoy a truly immersive and informative journey, learning about the migratory patterns, biological characteristics and ecological importance of whale sharks in the marine ecosystem. Running from June to September 2025, this year’s season invites explorers to witness these gentle giants, which measure up to 20 feet, feeding in the warm, plankton-rich waters of the Al Shaheen Marine Zone, approximately two and a half hours from Ruwais Port. Since its inception in 2022, the tour has welcomed over 1,200 guests, with sightings of more than 600 whale sharks during a single excursion. Qatar remains one of the few destinations globally offering a dedicated programme to study and safeguard whale sharks, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for sustainable marine tourism. Tours can be booked directly via www.discoverqatar.qa/wsoq , while international visitors can include the tour as part of their stopover package through www.qatarairwaysholidays.com .