Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Qatar Tourism is proud to be the strategic partner of the upcoming Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2023. Taking place at the expansive halls of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), from November 20 – 22, under the theme 'Exploring Places, Peoples, and Cultures,’ this year’s edition will showcase to global tourism stakeholders the latest trends in the industry and the future of travel. Set to welcome participants from over 60 countries, alongside 100 hosted buyers and more than 9,000 visitors, QTM will enable participants to forge new connections, tap into emerging opportunities and reconnect with established relationships in the travel and tourism sector. The second edition of the exhibition will see more than 40 thought leaders, experts, and influential stakeholders take part, who will each offer insights into the latest trends and innovations within the industry. This year will debut Qatar’s first Global Village, which will connect different regions under one roof – showcasing heritage, philosophies, and more. As the exhibition’s strategic partner, Qatar Tourism will host a joint 175 sqm booth with Discover Qatar that will showcase the destination’s unique visitor experience and solidify Qatar's position as a premier destination. Through its participation, Qatar Tourism aims to highlight its commitment to excellence, sustainability in the travel industry, as well as its ability to continually host world-renowned events. His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar continues to offer unparalleled opportunity for exploration by global travelers and we look forward to showcasing the latest advancements made by our tourism industry over the next three days while collaborating with our valued partners to ensure the continued success and growth of our sector. In particular, visitors from the region will find eased travel policies and new attractions that position Qatar as an appealing destination for a family-friendly holiday." Visit Saudi was announced as the key sponsor for QTM’s second edition. With its shared cultural values, proximity and an array of premier assets and unique leisure and hospitality offerings, Qatar continues to be a highly attractive popular world-class tourist destination for GCC visitors, especially from Saudi Arabia. Visitors from Saudi Arabia remain the top source market for international visitors to Qatar this year, contributing to nearly a quarter of all arrivals. Commenting on their participation, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and a Member of the Board, Saudi Tourism Authority, said: “Saudi is the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination and was recently named by the World Tourism Organisation as the most visited country by tourists in the Arab world in 2022 – and Saudi’s Red Sea Project has just been hailed one of Conde Nast Traveller’s ‘24 Best Places to Go in 2024’. This partnership will help to inspire more visitors from the region to enjoy Saudi’s diverse landscapes and packed cultural and sporting events calendar. “Winter Season festivities have kicked off across our many cities with more than 11,000 events in the coming months. “It’s also never been easier to visit Saudi thanks to initiatives including the eVisa program, the Stopover Visa and the Nusuk platform which now seamlessly issues Umrah eVisas – and the unified GCC visa that is set to launch in the coming years.” With state-of-the-art facilities, seamless public transportation networks, open tourism visa policies and a strategic central location, Qatar is quickly emerging as a prime destination for major global events and holds a strong track record of doing so. In October, Qatar inaugurated the first international debut of the renowned Geneva international Motor Show, which saw 1,000 journalists and more than 180,000 visitors over 10 days. Looking ahead, Qatar will host several, major international events including the MotoGP – Grand Prix of Qatar, AFC Asian Cup Qatar (January 12 – February 10, 2024) and the world’s biggest technology conference, Web Summit Qatar (February 26 – 29, 2024). Qatar continues to demonstrate its appeal as a global tourism destination with its expanded tourism infrastructure, safety, and warm, authentic Arabian hospitality. Qatar’s diverse tourism offering, with its 500km of pristine coastline, world-class museums, cultural and contemporary destinations, combine to make for a unique and compelling holiday that can be tailored to suit travelers from the region and internationally. A flurry of new attractions continues to open across the country, many of which take advantage of Qatar’s naturally beautiful landscape, including Al Maha Island, which offers visitors a vibrant and extensive entertainment destination, including Lusail Winter Wonderland, Bagatelle Beach Club Doha, and varied dining districts.

As part of its belief in the power of football-for-development and the ability of sport to bring about social change beyond the football pitch, the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Local Organising Committee (LOC) has agreed to donate revenue from tournament ticket sales to support urgent relief interventions in Palestine. For Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairman of LOC, using football as a means of showing solidarity with the people of Palestine is of the utmost importance. “In light of recent events in Palestine, we must provide all the necessary aid to support our brothers and sisters during this difficult time. As such, we have decided to donate ticketing revenue generated from the Asian Cup in Qatar to much needed relief efforts in Palestine,” said Sheikh Hamad. “By working with our partners that are providing aid support, we will be certain that this corporate social responsibility initiative will benefit those most affected, and that football fulfills its role as a support mechanism for people during the most difficult of times.” Through working with key stakeholders, ticketing revenue will be used to provide much needed medical support and food relief to people in Palestine. Qatar is set to host the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ for a record third time after successfully hosting it in 1988 and 2011. Twenty-four of the continent’s best teams will compete for the continent’s most prestigious football title. A total of 51 matches will be played across nine stadiums from 12 January to 10 February 2024. A second batch of tickets for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ will go on sale today, 20 November, 4PM Doha time. For more details, visit: http://asiancup2023.qa/.

Qatar Tourism represented the State of Qatar at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, leading a delegation of 42 esteemed hospitality and corporate partners. The event took place from November 6 - 8 at ExCeL London and brought together more than 51,000 senior travel industry professionals, distinguished speakers, and representatives from global tourism boards. On the sidelines of the event, Qatar Tourism held several constructive meetings. The delegation featured 39 hospitality partners and three corporate partners including Discover Qatar, Qatar Airways, and Expo 2023 Doha. Spread over 609 sqm, Qatar Tourism’s two-story pavilion showcased the destination’s one-of-a-kind attractions, while demonstrating the country’s unique blend of modernity and cultural authenticity. It also featured a range of immersive experiences including a Whale Shark activation which allowed visitors to step into an oceanic enclave to witness the beauty of this endangered species up close. In addition, the Dynamic Souq Experience transported visitors to a bustling traditional market with real-time sights and sounds from Souq Waqif. By utilising cutting-edge projection mapping technology, the booth's windows served as portals to the authentic exteriors of the Souq. Visitors enjoyed a fully immersive room with panoramic views of iconic destinations across Qatar. Within this space, visitors could explore and interact with Qatar's distinctive tourism offerings in real-time. To shine a spotlight on Qatar's heritage, the pavilion incorporated a dedicated cultural area where visitors received personalised Arabic calligraphy gifts, savoured traditional Arabic coffee, and applied henna art by skilled artists.

Today, Qatar Tourism unveiled the winners of the Qatar Tourism Awards 2023, a new initiative aimed at recognising the very best in the industry. The winners of the inaugural edition of the awards were announced at a ceremony that took place at Raffles Doha, attended by His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, and Ms. Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director of UNTWO. Developed in partnership with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Qatar Tourism Awards are designed to celebrate and recognise the remarkable contributions made by businesses that continually achieve excellence in customer service delivery. In his opening remarks, His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar's tourism sector has witnessed an extraordinary transformation, one that has successfully propelled our nation into the spotlight as a world-class tourist destination. The credit for this success goes to the devoted individuals and businesses that form the backbone of Qatar's tourism industry. Through initiatives such as the Qatar Tourism Awards, we aim to celebrate and recognise those who are committed to delivering outstanding and distinct tourism experiences in Qatar, while at the same time, inspiring the industry to continually innovate and raise the bar even higher.” The Qatar Tourism Awards focuses on three principal categories: Service Excellence, Cultural Experiences and Smart Solutions, which together highlight different aspects of the visitor experience. In addition, Qatar Tourism Awards announced a surprise category, the Community Contribution Award, to recognise individual community members who have gone above and beyond to display hospitality and provide exemplary services to visitors. The community members that are significantly contributing to providing visitors with a unique and hospitable tourism experience are: North Sedra Farm Ain Mohammed Village Al Kubaisi Educational Reserve ENK Farm and Classic Car Museum Mr. Khalid Jamal Al Ajmi Mr. Khalid bin Abdulla Albinali The winners of the Service Excellence category, which exemplify an organisation’s commitment to delivering service that consistently meets and exceeds the expectations of visitors, are: Casual Dining: Em Sherif Café, Millennium Hotel Doha Dalchini Restaurant and Bar, Centara West Bay Hotel and Residences Doha Dining in Touristic Areas: SMAT Restaurant, Aura Hospitality and Food Services Belhambar Restaurant, Aura Hospitality and Food Services Cafes: Café #999 MIA Café Fine Dining: Em Sherif Restaurant Aura Hospitality and Food Services Parisa Al Messila Resort and Spa IDAM by Alain Ducasse Hotel Restaurants: The Master Kitchen Team Mondrian Doha Sharq Village and Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel Riva and Q-Lounge Spa & Wellness: Banana Island Resort Doha Hilton Salwa Beach Resort and Villas Entertainment & Recreation: Doha Quest CurioCITY Retail and Local Shops: Ali Bin Ali Holding - Galeries Lafayette IN-Q Gift Shop by Qatar Museums Shopping Malls: Doha Festival City The Gate Mall Tour Operators: Regency Holidays Fal Travelmart, Travel and Tours Tour Guides: Alena Kishmaraia Cecilia Castro Pia Sundstedt Ajith Wijenayaka Hewa Kokawalage Outstanding Service Excellence for Individuals: Moza Abdulaziz Al As-haq Hassan Attia Wassim Daageh Bouthaina Al Emadi 4 Star and 3 Star Hotels: Jouri a Murwab Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel Doha Premier Inn Doha Education City Premier Inn Doha Airport 5 Star Hotels: Raffles Doha Banana Island Resort Doha Hilton Salwa Beach Resort and Villas Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som Tourism Support Organisations: Katara Hospitality Qatar National Convention Centre Qatar Rail Discover Qatar The winners of the Cultural Experience category, which recognises entities that emphasis and focus on delivering unique and memorable cultural experiences to visitors, are: Cultural and Tourist Attraction: United Development Company (UDC), The Pearl Island Basta Restaurant Chernovil Art Gallery Cultural Experiences: Embrace Doha Oryx Group Entertainment and Hospitality Regency Holidays Cultural Heritage: Msheireb Properties The winners of the Smart Solutions category, which reflect an organisation’s commitment to enhance the visitors’ experience through innovative products and solutions, are: The Digital and Innovation Experience: Qatar Rail ViaVii New Solutions in Sustainability: Doha Festival City Mowasalat Karwa Visitor Mobility and Accessibility: Msheireb Properties

08 November 2023| Doha. 'Disyembre', a visionary entertainment event in Qatar is set to redefine Doha's musical landscape. Event organizers have just announced 'DISYEMBRE! with DARREN ESPANTO - LIVE IN CONCERT'. On 8th December 2023 at the Mondrian Hotel at 7 p.m the concert will unravel a blaze of sensational entertainment, with songs that touch the soul, rhythms that make people dance and a voice that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Right here in the heart of West Bay, Darren Espanto, the iconic Filipino sensation is poised to take the stage. The exclusive one night only performance promises to deliver world class showmanship by Asia's Pop Heartthrob. Cementing its commitment to bridging cultures and celebrating world-class talent, Disyembre has curated an evening that promises more than just music. The event dives into stories of family, homecoming, friendships and the celebration of memories. This is a narrative that resonates with the Filipino and Asian community in Qatar, particularly during the holiday season when nostalgia is at its highest. Speaking to the media Aristotle Hernandez, Program Director said, " Let me begin by telling you why 'DISYEMBRE!'?. We know December is a month that brings along more than just the festive spirit and a season that celebrates the joyous sentiment of homecoming. When the winter chill begins to touch the sands of Doha it would be right to say that it ignites the warmth of Filipino spirit. Given that Qatar has a Filipino diaspora of more than 260,000 and counting and so many Asian fans of Darren Espanto living and working here so we wanted to put together a top-tier entertainment event that captured the sentiments of the season. It would be right to say that this concert is something that's by the Filipino community for the Filipino community and for every music lover in Qatar". Commenting on the global talent being brought to Qatar Aristotle Hernandez said, "Espanto isn't just a performer. He is an entertainment phenomenon with a narrative of success and talent that has shaken global platforms. So we are delighted to bring his live concert here to elevate Qatar's offerings of the holiday season". Darren Espanto's meteoric rise in the world of music has been nothing short of spectacular. With a voice that resonates deep emotion and passion he has proven why he is regarded as one of the finest young talents of his generation. His discography paints a vivid portrait of versatility. With heart-wrenching ballads and upbeat pop Espanto delivers his performances with finesse. But it is on stage, under the lights that his fans say he is truly at his best. As news of the event has begun to spread, fans of Espanto look forward to being mesmerized by the singer, songwriter, actor and TV personality who went from bustling cities of the Philippines to the global stage. With 'DISYEMBRE! with DARREN ESPANTO LIVE IN CONCERT', Qatar is truly about to witness more than a concert. It will be a homecoming for all.

Doha, Qatar - The Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), a state-of-the-art venue in Qatar, has announced a significant collaboration with MANGUSTEEN, a leading international event management company headquartered in Qatar. This collaboration is outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in the presence of esteemed media representatives from Qatar, marking a new era for dynamic events in Qatar and beyond. "QNCC's strategic mission is to cultivate a diverse array of events that not only enrich Qatar's landscape but also bolster the realization of the National 2030 vision. Through collaborative efforts with partners such as MANGUSTEEN, co-organized events with partners look to delve into specific sectors spanning Fintech, digital transformation, as well as cultural and entertainment spheres. At QNCC, we are committed to crafting dynamic experiences that align with the evolving needs of our society in Qatar," said by Robert Tripoli, GENERAL MANAGER of QATAR NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE. "The partnership between MANGUSTEEN and Qatar National Convention Centre is a testament to our shared commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of events. We look forward to creating unforgettable experiences and fostering the growth of Qatar's event industry. The very first manifestation of this MoU will be the 3rd edition of the Arab Fintech Forum, which we are bringing to the state-of-the- art QNCC venue." said Malik Shishtawi, CEO of MANGUSTEEN. The Collaborative Vision: Under the terms of the MOU, both parties have agreed to co-organize a series of events that span both the entertainment and business sectors. While MANGUSTEEN will lead in event planning and management, while QNCC will provide the venue and essential support services. Forward Together: This collaboration signifies an exciting synergy between MANGUSTEEN's event management expertise and the world-class facilities at QNCC. It promises to bring a fresh wave of dynamic events to Qatar, providing a platform for both local and international talents to shine. Both parties are excited about the possibilities that this partnership will unlock, and they remain committed to maintaining the highest standards and professionalism throughout the collaboration. The strategic partnership between MANGUSTEEN and Qatar National Convention Centre is poised to redefine the event landscape in Qatar and the region. Stay tuned for a lineup of exciting events that will captivate audiences and make a mark in the industry. About Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC): The Qatar National Convention Centre, nestled in the heart of Doha's Education City, is a renowned award-winning venue dedicated to hosting world-class events. With its state- of-the-art facilities and a commitment to excellence, QNCC has earned a stellar reputation for hosting conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events of international significance. About MANGUSTEEN Events: MANGUSTEEN LLC is a leading and award-winning event management company in Qatar, known for its innovation and expertise in creating and executing memorable events. With a strong track record of organizing both entertainment and business events, MANGUSTEEN Events has established itself as a key player in the industry. MANGUSTEEN is a proud member of UFI, ICCA & IAEE: the leading global associations for events and event organizers around the world.

Doha, Qatar – The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants - PICPA Doha LLC (G) recently reaffirmed its partnership with Qabayan Radio in a formal signing ceremony. The agreement, which was renewed for another term, solidifies the collaboration between these two entities in promoting the interests of Filipino accountants and finance professionals in Qatar. The signing of the MOU took place at Qabayan Radio studio and was marked by the presence of PICPA Doha's President, John Vincent P. Gunita, and Qabayan Radio General Manager, Nhelie Rosopa. This strategic partnership signifies the commitment of both organizations to further the growth and development of the Filipino accounting and finance community in Qatar. PICPA Doha, a chapter of the larger Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, is an organization dedicated to representing the interests of accountants and finance professionals in Qatar. It provides a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and staying updated with industry trends and developments, helping its members excel in their professional careers. The organization's vision is clear: to be the premier choice for professional development among Filipino finance professionals in Qatar. This renewed partnership with Qabayan Radio underlines their ongoing commitment to achieving this vision. PICPA Doha is headed by President John Vincent Gunita, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), who leads a team of 26 professionals for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The complete list of officers for the fiscal year 2023-2024 is as follows: Council Officers: President: John Vincent Gunita, CPA Senior Vice President: Kathryn Joyce Fajardo, CPA, CMA Vice President: Jyerex Abrasado, CPA, CIMA, Dip MA Secretary: Jeamma Varry Tamayo, CPA, CMA Treasurer: Marivel Pagayonan, CPA, CMA Auditor: Marilou Tabisora, CPA, CMA, CICA, RFP Accountant: Jay Mariano, CPA Press Relation Officer: Ariel Joseph Teologo, CPA, CICA, AFA Head for Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Chubet Ann Panaga, CPA Head for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Anneth Lumanao, CPA Head for Corporate Governance and Compliance: Hashim Tating, CPA Head for Education: Hazel Abella, CPA, RFP Head for Community Affairs: Rey Barcena, CPA, CIA, CISA Head for Sports: Rotinie Nidea De La Torre, CPA Head for Ways & Means: Princess Bigay, CPA Head for Social Media Relations: Christine Hanna Masarate, CPA, CMA Head for Membership: Rowena Cahintong, CPA, CMA, MBA Associate Volunteers: Head - Committee on Associate Affairs: Cris Nunez Associate Volunteer - Community Affairs: Morris Montecillo Associate Volunteer - Social Media Relations: Alvin Guanzon Associate Volunteer - Education: Carl Albrecht Bautista Associate Volunteer - Corporate Social Responsibility: Najeeb Abdullah Mamacotao Associate Volunteer - Membership: Ruby Nepacena Associate Volunteer - Ways and Means: Catherine Deligero Associate Volunteer - Sports: Jay Rafael Angeles Associate Volunteer - Press Relation: Rebekah Pardillo The signing ceremony of the renewed partnership agreement between PICPA Doha and Qabayan Radio highlights the commitment of both organizations to further enhance the professional development and community engagement opportunities for Filipino accountants and finance professionals in Qatar. With a strong and dedicated leadership team and a network of enthusiastic volunteers, PICPA Doha is set to continue making a significant impact within the Filipino accounting community in the region.

Qatar Tourism has announced a distinguished seven-person jury panel for its inaugural edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. The highly anticipated awards celebrate organisations that have consistently delivered exceptional tourism experiences. The panel is responsible for meticulously reviewing tourism businesses that excel in three principal categories: Cultural Experiences, Smart Solutions, and Service Excellence, each of which highlights different aspects of the visitor experience. In addition, Qatar Tourism Awards will also feature a community segment, which will recognise the community initiatives with significant impact by offering authentic tourism experience to Qatar visitors and to spot the hospitality and warmth of citizens that was on full display during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The jury includes the following distinguished members: Sheikha Al Anoud Al Thani, Chief Operating Officer at QFC; Eng. Abdulla Al-Mehshadi, CEO of Al Wa’ab City; Ramzan Al Naimi, CEO of Innovation Café; Khalid Al Jumaili, TV Presenter ; Dr. Rana Al Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University; Dr. Ghalya Al Thani, Entrepreneur and Director at Qatar Foundation; and Marcel Leijzer, Deputy Director of Development Assistance at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief of Marketing and Promotion Officer, said: “We are delighted to have such a prestigious panel of judges participating in the inaugural edition of Qatar Tourism Awards. From academic leaders and top-tier executives to visionary entrepreneurs and innovation experts, each jury member is contributing a unique perspective to enrich the evaluation process. It is through initiatives such as these, strengthened by the collaborative efforts of our partners, that help to create a vibrant and flourishing tourism sector." Deputy Director of Development Assistance at UNWTO, Mr. Marcel Leijzer added: “Tourism development in Qatar stands for innovation and excellence. The first Qatar Tourism Awards celebrate and honour the superb performance and outstanding achievements of key players to help boost Qatar's tourism sector." Commenting on her upcoming participation, Dr. Rana Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University, said: “It is a true pleasure to serve on the judging panel for the Qatar Tourism Awards initiative and acknowledge the remarkable contributions of entities and individuals dedicated to positioning Qatar as a premier global destination. Initiatives like these, coupled with collaborative efforts, play a crucial role in shaping Qatar’s dynamic and thriving tourism landscape.” The curated jury reviewed and judged over 312 submissions, shortlisting 147 applicants from across the sector. Winners will be promoted locally, regionally and internationally to gain greater visibility. The first edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards is scheduled for 9th November 2023.

After an illustrious 27-year tenure at the helm of Qatar Airways Group, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, the renowned Group Chief Executive, is set to pass the torch, marking a momentous change in leadership at the prestigious airline. In a significant announcement made today, Qatar Airways Group confirmed that Mr. Al Baker will relinquish his role as Group Chief Executive, effective November 5, 2023, and will be succeeded by the highly esteemed Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. Under the stewardship of H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways has achieved remarkable milestones, transforming it into one of the most reputable and trusted airline brands worldwide. The airline has become synonymous with exceptional customer service and unwavering commitment to the highest standards of excellence. Notably, Qatar Airways has earned the prestigious "World's Best Airline" award an unprecedented seven times, cementing its status as an industry leader. Moreover, the state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport, under the exceptional management and operation of Qatar Airways, has been consistently recognized as the "World's Best Airport." Mr. Al Baker's tenure has been marked by the airline's unparalleled growth and achievements, exemplified by Qatar Airways Group's crucial role in delivering the best-ever FIFA World Cup. The event, which captivated the world's attention, showcased the airline's exceptional capabilities, unwavering commitment to excellence, and its dedication to uniting people from across the globe. The transition to Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer as the new Group Chief Executive signifies the continuation of Qatar Airways' legacy of excellence and world-class service. Engr. Al-Meer, with his extensive experience and visionary leadership, is poised to steer the airline into an exciting new chapter. Qatar Airways Group expresses its deep gratitude to H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker for his tireless dedication, visionary leadership, and transformative impact on the airline and the aviation industry as a whole. As the airline welcomes Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer into his new role, the world eagerly anticipates the future achievements and milestones that Qatar Airways Group will undoubtedly attain under his leadership.

In a historic announcement, Qatar Airways Group has confirmed the departure of its iconic Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, after 27 years of unparalleled service. Effective November 5, 2023, Mr. Al Baker will step down from his role as Group Chief Executive, making way for the highly esteemed Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer to take the reins as the new Group Chief Executive for Qatar Airways. Under the visionary leadership of H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways has soared to unprecedented heights, emerging as a globally recognized and trusted brand renowned for its exceptional customer service and unwavering commitment to the highest standards of excellence. As the national carrier of the State of Qatar, Qatar Airways has secured a remarkable seven consecutive wins of the prestigious "World's Best Airline" award. Furthermore, the world-class Hamad International Airport, under its proficient management and operation, has consistently been honored as the "World's Best Airport." The Qatar Airways Group's monumental contributions were most notably showcased during its pivotal role in delivering the best-ever FIFA World Cup. This grand event underscored the group's remarkable capabilities, dedication to excellence, and its passion for uniting the world through exceptional aviation services. The impending departure of Mr. Al Baker marks the end of an era, one defined by exceptional growth and accomplishments under his leadership. His successor, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, is set to inherit a legacy of excellence and a company poised for continued success. Qatar Airways Group has indeed set a benchmark for the aviation industry, and as the baton is passed to new leadership, the world will be eager to see how the airline continues to shape the future of air travel, maintaining its reputation as a pinnacle of quality and service.

Arabella, affectionately known as "Doha's pride," achieved a remarkable feat by shattering the 8-year-old Philippine National Record in the 100m breaststroke. At just 15 years of age, she set a new record of 1:12.89, eclipsing the previous mark of 1:13.17. Further showcasing her prowess, Arabella also established a Southeast Asian Age Group record by trimming her 100m breaststroke time to 1:13.40, securing the Gold Medal in Jakarta, Indonesia, on August 25, 2023. Arabella's extraordinary performance at the Philippine Aquatic National Age Group Swimming Championship 2023 earned her the distinction of receiving the second-highest World Aquatics Female Points (please consult the image below for validation). Anticipation now surrounds the announcement of the Philippine delegates for the Asian Age Swimming Championship, where 48 nations will participate. Arabella's exceptional standing as the second-highest female in World Aquatic points from the recent event positions her as a potential addition to the national delegation. The Asian Age Swimming Championship is scheduled to take place from December 6 to 10, 2023.

The show made its debut in Doha, marking the first international presence in the prestigious exhibition’s 100-year-old history Qatar Tourism inaugurated the first edition of the long-awaited Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) Qatar, drawing in more than 1,000 journalists from over 50 countries and 180,000 visitors over 10 days. The Geneva International Motor Show took place outside of Switzerland for the very first time in the exhibition since its inception in 1905. Set at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), the celebrated motor show ran from October 5 to 14 and saw the strong presence of 30 exhibitors who collectively unveiled 29 regional launches and 12 world premieres. The inaugural edition closed its doors at 22:00 on October 14 to the sound of horns honking, a prized Geneva International Motor Show tradition. Speaking on the resounding success of the exhibition, His Excellency Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Deputy Chairman at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are delighted to have led efforts to bring to Qatar one of the most elite exhibitions in the automotive industry and demonstrate Qatar’s ability to host large-scale events. Our state-of-the-art conference facilities as well as eased travel policies and expanded hospitality offering make Qatar an ideal choice for businesses considering an international destination to their events. In addition, the celebration of automotive excellence that took place across multiple venues demonstrates the country’s seamless alignment and adherence to one shared vision of propelling Qatar onto the international stage.” Sandro Mesquita, CEO of the Geneva International Motor Show, said: “Our Geneva Salon has for many years allowed the great and good of the automotive industry to connect, share ideas and inspire the future of the sector. It has also been the place to show what we call ‘automotive excellence.’ Whether that’s a luxury brand showing its latest hypercar, a start-up making its entry to the market, or a major global automaker unveiling its electrification strategy; if it’s at Geneva, it tends to be big news. This is what Geneva means. But this is also what GIMS means. Wherever and whenever a GIMS event takes place, it brings the same excellence. This first edition of GIMS Qatar is a true testament to that.” Spread over 10,000 m2 at the DECC, the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar offered a unique platform for automotive experts to present cutting-edge technologies, designs, and concepts. Beyond the exhibition halls, the motor show extended to a country-wide festival of automotive excellence with a Future Design Forum held at the National Museum of Qatar, the Track Days at the newly renovated Lusail International Circuit, off-roading experiences at the Sealine Adventure Hub and a Parade of Excellence at the Urban Playground created in the family-friendly Lusail Boulevard. The organisers and founding partners of GIMS Qatar expressed their profound satisfaction with the results and the overwhelming attendance. Exhibitors were equally delighted with the exceptional set-up, logistics, and significant footfall. GIMS Qatar will return in November 2025. Prior to that, automotive enthusiasts worldwide can look forward to the next edition of GIMS at Palexpo, Geneva, from February 26 to March 3, 2024.