In its milestone 10th year, Kulinarya Qatar continues its passionate advocacy for cultural diversity and culinary excellence, firmly placing the Philippines and its talents on the global gastronomic map. The annual event, held in conjunction with the Qatar International Food Festival, serves as a vibrant platform to showcase the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine and its profound impact on the culinary world. Organized under the auspices of Qatar Tourism, the event celebrates the diverse culinary offerings of the country, brought directly from the Philippines through Regency Travels. Among the distinguished personalities representing the Philippines was F&B Consultant, sustainability advocate, and renowned chef Michelle Adrillana. With a plethora of titles under her belt including Rise Against Hunger Ambassador and brand endorser, Adrillana took center stage to demonstrate her unique fusion of Filipino flavors with French and international culinary techniques. During the event, held at the Cooking Studio of the Qatar International Food Festival, Adrillana captivated audiences with her innovative creations. On February 13th, she showcased her Fooled Beef Sandwich and Chickpea Sisig Taco, followed by her delectable Pansit Palabok Salad and Tinapang Bangus blinis with mango salsa, ikura, and cilantro oil on February 17th. The participation of Filipino chefs on the global culinary stage underscores the determination of Filipinos worldwide to spotlight the diversity and distinctiveness of their cuisine. The live cooking demonstrations at the QIFF cooking studio provided a unique opportunity to blend Filipino and Arab flavors seamlessly. Accompanying Chef Michelle Adrillana were esteemed local Filipino chefs, including Airo Malinao, Catherine David, Benilda Rosopa, Mark Anthony Agtutubo, Rony Ryan Dilig, and young-chef Xian Kirby Rosopa, collectively adding their expertise to the showcase. The KulinaryaQatar Food section was well represented by establishments such as DEQADA Restaurant, FlaminGo Restaurant, and Filipino Hot Pack, further enhancing the Filipino culinary experience at the festival. Reflecting on the event's success, Dahlia S. Agbanlog, Chairperson of KulinaryaQatar, expressed pride in the event's contribution to promoting Filipino cuisine globally. "Participating once again in QIFF 2024 was a great achievement for KulinaryaQatar as we showcased unique combinations celebrating the best of both worlds, ensuring a delightful experience at the food festival," she remarked. "Our participation in these global events aims to create a culinary legacy that resonates not only within the Filipino community but also on the global stage," she added, emphasizing the enduring impact of Filipino cuisine on the international culinary landscape.

Doha, February 13, 2024: The employees of the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) and their families participated today in the sports event held today at Expo Doha 2023, Al Bidda Park. The event contributed to fostering an active and healthy lifestyle among employees and enhancing team spirit and solidarity through participation in a variety of sports activities. The event was from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring an array of competitions and sports activities designed to appeal to all ages and interests, thereby encouraging widespread participation and interaction. Additionally, a special area was designated for women, promoting their active involvement in the various sports activities. On the occasion of Qatar's 13th National Sports Day, Engineer Ahmad Abdulla AlMuslemani, President of the Communications Regulatory Authority, emphasized the vital role of sports in enhancing the health and well-being of Qatari society. He commended the continuous efforts of the State of Qatar to promote the principle of ‘sport for all’ and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the successful hosting of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™. He lauded the role of modern technology as an effective tool in raising awareness about the importance of sports as an integral part of daily life. He highlighted that the use of applications and smart devices in monitoring physical and mental health represents a significant stride towards achieving a healthy and active lifestyle. “Technology not only facilitates access to health information, but also adds enjoyment and interactivity to sports activities, particularly with the availability of outdoor facilities that encourage participation in various outdoor sports activities in Qatar,” he added.

While the symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and individual factors, there are some common symptoms that are often overlooked or dismissed by people. These symptoms include: Frequent urination: Excessive urination, particularly during the night, can be a sign of diabetes. The body tries to rid itself of excess glucose through urine, leading to increased urination. Increased thirst: Excessive thirst (polydipsia) is often linked with frequent urination. As the body loses fluids through increased urination, it tries to compensate by increasing thirst. Extreme hunger: Despite eating regularly, people with diabetes may experience persistent hunger (polyphagia) due to the body's inability to properly utilize glucose for energy. Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss can occur in individuals with diabetes, particularly in those with type 1 diabetes. This is due to the body breaking down muscle and fat for energy because it cannot use glucose properly. Fatigue: Persistent fatigue and weakness can be symptoms of diabetes, as the body's cells are not receiving enough glucose for energy production. Blurry vision: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can cause temporary changes in vision, leading to blurred vision. Slow-healing wounds: High blood sugar levels can affect the body's ability to heal properly, leading to slow healing of wounds and frequent infections. Numbness or tingling in extremities: Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet (diabetic neuropathy). Recurrent infections: Diabetes can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and skin infections. Darkened skin patches: Some people with diabetes may develop patches of darkened skin, particularly in areas where skin folds, such as the armpits and neck (acanthosis nigricans). It's important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may not always indicate diabetes. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and management of diabetes can help prevent complications and improve overall health outcomes.

Engaging in sports offers a wide array of health benefits, both physical and mental. Here are some of the key benefits: Improved cardiovascular health: Sports like running, swimming, and cycling can strengthen your heart, increase lung capacity, and improve circulation, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Weight management: Regular physical activity burns calories, helping to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity and related conditions such as type 2 diabetes. Muscle strength and endurance: Sports activities involve various muscle groups, leading to improved strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness. Bone health: Weight-bearing sports such as tennis, basketball, and soccer help strengthen bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life. Enhanced flexibility and coordination: Sports require flexibility and coordination, which can improve balance, posture, and overall motor skills. Stress reduction: Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness and relaxation, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Better sleep: Regular physical activity can help regulate your sleep patterns, promoting deeper and more restful sleep. Improved mood and mental health: Exercise has been shown to boost mood, self-esteem, and confidence while reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Social connections: Participating in sports often involves teamwork, cooperation, and social interaction, fostering friendships and a sense of community. Increased longevity: Research suggests that regular physical activity is associated with a longer lifespan and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Overall, incorporating sports into your lifestyle can have numerous positive effects on your physical and mental well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Last Friday, February 9, witnessed an exhilarating gathering at the picturesque MIA Park, courtesy of the Overseas Filipino Investors and Entrepreneurs Movement (OFIEM) in collaboration with Filipino Fitness and Health in Qatar (FFHQ). The event, aptly named 'OFIEM Sports Day-Larong Pinoy,' celebrated Filipino culture through traditional games while promoting fitness and community unity among Filipinos residing in Qatar. The day kicked off with an energetic Zumba session led by FFHQ instructors, setting a lively tone for the festivities ahead. Participants danced and grooved for over an hour, basking in the morning sun and preparing for a day filled with excitement. As the Zumba session concluded, the 'palarong pinoy' commenced, featuring five spirited groups engaging in various traditional Filipino games. Laughter and cheers echoed throughout the venue as participants showcased their skills in games like 'Maria went to Town,' 'Piko,' and 'Sipa.' Despite the competitive spirit, camaraderie prevailed, reinforcing the sense of unity within the Filipino community. The atmosphere reached new heights with a cheering competition, where teams rallied support through chants and cheers, adding an extra layer of enthusiasm to the event. As the games wrapped up, prizes were distributed to recognize participants' efforts and sportsmanship. This outdoor extravaganza marked the beginning of OFIEM's yearly activities, emphasizing their dedication to fostering community spirit and healthy lifestyles. For many attendees, it provided a refreshing break from the routine, offering a chance to forge connections beyond seminars and workshops. The 'larong pinoy' served as a platform for building relationships, fostering teamwork, and strengthening bonds within the community. Following the games, participants enjoyed a delicious spread prepared by OFIEM members and officers, bonding over food and conversation as the sun set. The event underscored the strength of the OFIEM community, reinforcing unity, friendship, and cultural pride. The 'OFIEM Sports Day-Larong Pinoy' was more than just a celebration of athleticism; it was a joyful homage to Filipino heritage and community spirit. As participants departed, memories of laughter and camaraderie lingered, promising to inspire until the next eagerly anticipated OFIEM gathering.

DJWE – A Successful Journey of Two Decades In 1978, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the father Emir brought a vision into reality by merging small, individual galleries into one grand exhibition. His Highness invited all top local brands of jewellery and watches for the first exhibition to gather under one roof. In the succeeding years, His Excellency, Sheikh Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani, the Minister of Economy and Commerce at the time, was appointed to assemble a committee of jewellery merchants to develop and participate at the exhibition. His vision was to expand the exhibition and to produce an exhibition of the highest standard to spotlight Qatar globally. The Sheraton Hotel was home to the exhibition for many years. In 2004, the exhibition was held at the Qatar International Exhibition Center with the participation of 250 exhibitors. Since then, DJWE has returned and grown each year with incredible local, regional, and international brands. The State of Qatar strongly supports the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, allowing exhibitors to build upon their previous years’ work. The exhibition has been a platform for jewellery designers to demonstrate their best works and most majestic pieces. It also fosters Qatari talent by spotlighting incredible local designers to display their creations. DJWE has become a home to high-end artistry, showcasing the world’s most exclusive jewellery and timepieces. It is the glamour in Qatar’s annual events calendar as the nation continues its uphill trajectory as the fastest growing tourism destination in the region. In more recent years, DJWE has collaborated with Education Above All (EAA), an initiative founded by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), through the ‘Educate A Child’ initiative. DJWE supports the philanthropic values of EAA, displaying EAA collaborations with popular jewellery brands including Valentino, Chopard, Hermès, and Ghand Jewellery, to support a wide number of marginalised students each year. A pair of exquisite diamonds and 20th anniversary statement pieces Qatar Tourism, the organisers of the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition celebrate the return of the exhibition with a grand opening fit for the 20th anniversary. The activities span over 7 days starting February 5. Every year, the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition attracts more than 500 brands from multiple countries. As the largest exhibition of its kind in the Middle East, DJWE has become the compass of elegance and luxury in the region. DJWE is renowned for displaying the world’s most exclusive luxury jewellery and watches. As such, one of the most iconic pieces at this year’s exhibition is taken from a private collection – the world’s largest pair of brilliant round diamonds. Valued at nearly 100 million USD, each diamond in this pair is composed of over 100-carat. As the most exclusive pair of diamonds ever crafted, these diamonds have immaculate sizing and purity, and are of the highest quality. Ethically sourced from the Karowe Mine in Botswana, and skillfully crafted to perfection at HB Antwerp over a period of three years, these diamonds mark a historic milestone in the diamond industry. The world’s largest pair of diamonds is on display at the 20th anniversary of the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition. Attendees can witness two special statement pieces this year. Tiffany & Co. debuted the ‘Bird on a Pearl’ collection. The central piece shows the signature bird, designed initially by Jean Schlumberger in 1965, adorned with diamonds, perched on a gemstone, with the world’s rarest pearls from the Gulf. These unique and lustrous pearls were acquired by The House from Mr. Hussein Al fardan’s private collection. The design honours Jean Schlumberger’s love of nature, as each pearl is composed of a unique, gradient colour palette, representing the four seasons. One of the most exquisite pieces in the collection, the Bird on a Pearl necklace, is composed of over 325 total carats of natural saltwater pearls with five bird motifs. BVLGARI presented the ‘High Jewelry Necklace’ crafted in platinum, featuring 1 cushion spinel – 4th largest in the world by carat weight, 4 square emerald-cut diamonds, 27 emerald beads, 36 fancy shape diamonds, 69 round brilliant cut diamonds, and pavé-set diamonds. The necklace represents uniqueness and femininity through iconic colour combinations of pink-fuchsia and green emerald; a BVLGARI style trademark. With respect to the geometry and volume, the piece is soft, light, and balanced, personifying a feminine aesthetic. The masterpiece was created through 1, 400 impact hours. For more information on Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2024, please visit www.djwe.com. To keep up with the latest events of Qatar Calendar 2024, please visit www.visitqatar.com.

SC publishes new report examining FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ legacy DOHA, 28 January 2024: The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has published a new report recounting the extraordinary journey of hosting the greatest FIFA World Cup™ of all time. In Amazing Delivered, the SC offers a new insight into the vision, innovation and determination behind what FIFA President Gianni Infantino called, “the best World Cup ever.” From the origins of the original bid to host the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world, to the unforgettable final that saw Lionel Messi’s Argentina triumph over defending champions France, the report examines every aspect of the event’s sporting, social and economic legacy. Amazing Delivered highlights the passion and commitment needed to stage a mega-event of this scale, while looking ahead to the next chapter of Qatar’s story as it builds on that moment of history. Reflecting on the report, Eng. Yasir Al Jamal, Director General of the SC, said: “In March 2009, we set out to deliver amazing. Today, as we release our post -tournament report, we can proudly say Qatar did exactly that. Qatar 2022 will go down in history as the greatest FIFA World Cup yet. We are proud that Qatar set a new benchmark for hosting mega sporting events, and that we delivered on our promise.”

The initiative aims at encouraging football fans in Qatar to live the tournament in a more energized and interactive way, allowing them to cheer for their preferred teams while getting the chance to win incentive prizes. Doha, Qatar - 23 January 2024: Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) has launched its latest interactive campaign labeled Who’ll Win?, to celebrate the organization of Asia’s biggest and most anticipated football tournament in Qatar. QIC aims through “Who’ll Win?” at encouraging football fans in Qatar to live the tournament in a more energized and interactive way, allowing them to cheer for their preferred teams while getting the chance to win incentive prizes, including iPhone 15 Pro devices, iPad Air tablets, AirPods 3 earbuds, and a MacBook Air throughout the entire duration of the championship. The campaign is running until 11 February 2024, and football fans can join the game by visiting qic.online/win and guessing the results of given tournament games before kickoff. Participants must have at least 1 correct guess to enter the random draw for winning one of the prizes, and winners will be announced on alternate days on QIC’s Instagram page (@qic_online) until the end of the tournament. To join the game and know more on the raffle draws and the winners’ announcement, visit: qic.online/win

Sensory rooms and audio descriptive commentary amongst services available to disabled fans The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Local Organising Committee (LOC) has affirmed its commitment to providing an accessible experience to disabled fans. Several accessibility features have been put in place to ensure a barrier-free user experience for disabled fans throughout the tournament. All nine stadiums of the tournament are equipped with accessible entrances and seating for wheelchair users and fans with limited mobility. The Doha Metro network, Lusail Tram and shuttle services between metro stations and stadiums offer wheelchair access. Lusail, Education City, and Al Bayt stadiums will feature sensory rooms for fans with sensory access requirements, including fans with autism. These spaces allow fans to watch matches in a quieter area, equipped with assistive technology and managed by trained staff. Audio descriptive commentary services for blind and partially sighted fans will also be available. Fans with visual disabilities can access the service from their own mobile device where they will be able to listen to a detailed description of match proceedings, enabling them to be part of the live action in stadiums. Eng. Bodour Al-Meer, LOC Executive Director of Sustainability, highlighted the centrality of inclusivity in Qatar’s hosting of mega sporting events: “We believe that football is for everyone. We have always believed in the power of tournaments like the Asian Cup in bringing about positive social change. Qatar 2022 was recognised for going above and beyond accessibility standards, and we are delighted to carry this legacy forward with the Asian Cup. We look forward to welcoming fans of all abilities to have a wonderful experience.” Qatar is hosting the AFC Asian Cup™ 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, with the final set for 10 February 2024. For more information about the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, visit http://asiancup2023.qa and follow @Qatar2023 on X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Following the immensely successful delivery of the FIFA World Cup 2022TM tournament in Qatar, which was voted the best this century, Qatar is gearing up to welcome the world once more with the AFC Asian Cup  2023TM from January 12 - February 10, 2024. The AFC Asian Cup 2023TM demonstrates Qatar’s ongoing sporting legacy and showcases Qatar’s ability to host large-scale events and welcome visitors from across the globe with its world-class tourism infrastructure, which includes an award-winning airport  Hamad International Airport and national airline Qatar Airways, metro and tram network (which carried over 18.2 million passengers during the FIFA World Cup2022TM), inviting hotels, and leisure attractions. In addition, Qatar will be abuzz with some of the biggest events of the year during the AFC Asian Cup 2023TM, providing visitors and residents with a packed itinerary of things to do and see pre- and post- matches. On this occasion, His Excellency, Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: "We are pleased to host the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM this year, with its events extending from 12th January to 10th February. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy exciting times and explore many tourist attractions in Qatar. Qatar Tourism will offer a rich array of exciting events and festivals that will amuse both Qatar's residents and its visitors. The kickoff of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM coincides with the organization of various festivals and events, including Shop Qatar, Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), Qatar Kite Festival, and International Horticultural Doha Expo 2023, which continues until late March. Additionally, there will be a series of musical and entertainment events that together form an unforgettable and exceptional experience." He added, "Over the past years, Qatar has successfully become a distinguished sports tourism destination, due to its advanced infrastructure, sports facilities, and medical facilities. This is in addition to the diversity of sports events it hosts, especially FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Qatar has demonstrated to the world its hospitality, exceptional organization, complemented by the presence of luxurious tourist facilities and the picturesque landscapes that characterize the destination." KEY EVENTS Shop Qatar 2024 Shop Qatar will be running from January 1 to 27, 2024, with incredible discounts in stores, raffle draws, and entertainment spread out in malls. There are a total of 13 malls and shopping districts participating, which residents can explore, with 100s of shops featuring different offers and entertainment. Qatar International Food Festival 2024 The all-time fan favourite, Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), is set to return on February 7 – 17 at Family Zone Expo at Al Bidda Park this time. With one of the broadest ranges of cuisine in one space, QIFF is one of the most popular events in Qatar, with over 100 dishes for people to choose from. Head over to the QIFF after a game to satisfy your cravings and socialise with other food enthusiasts. Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2024 DJWE The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2024(DJWE) will be held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center from February 5 to 11, 2024, with unique displays and products. Immerse yourself in the highest-quality, most aesthetic and luxurious jewellery at this exhibition. Doha Expo 2023 One of the main events of 2023 continuing into 2024 is the Doha Expo 2023, which will run until March 28. Doha Expo 2023 has been a platform for people in Qatar to engage with local and international agricultural organisations. It is the first ever A1 international horticultural exhibition in the MENA region. Residents can enjoy several other events at the Expo as well, such as immersing themselves in virtual reality, participating in innovative workshops, exploring the botanic garden, or simply sipping on some coffee in the Cultural Zone. Museums and Exhibitions The Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is hosting several exhibitions until March 2024, to satiate one’s curiosity of arts and culture. Some of these include Mehdi Moutashar: Introspection as Resistance, Distilled Lessons: Abstraction in Arab Modernism, Cities Under Quarantine: The Mailbox Project, and De/Constructed Meanings. Close to Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium is the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum in Al Samriya. Fans who have some time to spare pre- or post-match can learn about His Excellency Sheikh Faisal, one of the most influential and revolutionary businessmen in Qatar. The museum boasts traditional Syrian craftsmanship, artefacts dating back to the Jurassic age, antique automobiles, and rustic carpets, to name a few. Nature escapes Balancing football cheers with moments of solitude, fans can take respite at the Aspire Park, Qatar’s biggest park with lush green spaces, walking tracks and cozy cafes. In Education City, there is Oxygen Park, which has walking tracks and football fields to practice, and the Qu’aranic Botanic Garden, a unique garden which features plants mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah. Alternatively, if you are looking for a nearby place to relax and rejuvenate post-matches, you can also visit the Heenat Salma Farm, which is a 20-minute drive away from the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium. The farm offers organic products, crafts, creative workshops and vocational training, and wellness spas, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing weekend retreat, or simply a visit to stimulate your artistic side. Concerts and Music For those with the appreciation of the art that is music, Qatar is hosting various music artists across three locations in the country. At Hotel Park in West Bay, visitors and residents can enjoy Arab singer Wafeek Habeeb’s music on January 17, electronic music by ‘Swedish House Mafia’ on January 19, performances by the renowned band ‘Backstreet Boys’ on January 26, and internationally-recognised pop band ‘OneRepublic’ on February 1. For tickets, visit: https://tickets.virginmegastore.me/qa At the Katara Ampitheatre, music lovers can watch performances by Arab singers Modi and Rehab Al Shamrani on January 27, Lebanese artist Najwa Karam on February 1, Moroccan-French performer Amine Boudchar on February 8, and Egyptian singer Amal Maher on February 11.  For tickets visit: https://www.eventat.com/home The Qatar National Convention Centre will be hosting the established artist Nassif Zeytoun on February 3. Hello Asia As the pleasant winter weather sets on the country, the Lusail Boulevard and Plaza is welcoming fans for its  ‘Hello Asia’ festival which will take place on January 10– February 10, 2024. The Boulevard is getting ready to be decked with stunning lighting, cultural flags and décor, and F&B kiosks to entertain and encourage fans to show support for their countries’ teams. There will be 24 country zones, such as Qatar, China, India, South Korea, and Lebanon to name a few. Fans are welcome to enjoy entertainment, and to show support for the national teams through this artistic parade and exhibit at Lusail. Modern Architecture Qatar is no stranger to modern architecture. Fans headed to Education City Stadium will get a close-up look with the Qatar National Library (QNL) which is structured as a shell made by folding two pieces of paper, or the contemporary design of the Education City Mosque, Minaretein. Both QNL and Minartein are worth exploring on the inside with the library’s café, 3D printing, music studio, and reading nooks, and the mosque’s guided-tour. At Al Wakrah is the Abu Manaratain Mosque, with unconventional architecture from the 1940s to appreciate. Attractions The Meryal Waterpark recently opened at Qetaifan Island North, with rides designed to reflect the oil and gas industry’s omnipresence in Qatari culture. One of its rides, the Icon Tower is world’s highest tower of its kind. The annual Winter Wonderland Lusail is now operating on Al Maha Island, near the Lusail Stadium, with 50 rides which encompass 25 family rides, 15 children’s rides, 10 thrill rides, the 395-rollercoaster, and the 150 ft tall Ferris Wheel. Night Markets and Bazaars Within the premise of the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium is the Duhail Night Market, Qatar’s pioneering night market, with the finest selection of popular finger foods, coffee, and karak. In Al Waab, there is ‘The Downtown’, a new night market at Aspire Park offering different drive-thru restaurants and cafés, where visitors can snack on delicious finger foods and of course, coffee. During the weekend, residents can explore the Torba Farmer’s Market, held every Saturday, in Education City. The market offers local, artisanal products and fresh food for visitors to enjoy. Near Al Janoub Stadium you will find the Souq Al Wakrah, where you can take a stroll by the sea in the serene winter weather, indulge in a range of cuisine, primarily seafood, and explore shops selling traditional Arabian products. For Animal Lovers A 20-minute drive away from Ahmed bin Ali Stadium is Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack, which hosts multiple camel racing events throughout the year. Here, you can enjoy both races and camel training, the latter of which takes place every morning at the centre. Al Shaqab, near Education City Stadium, is also a popular destination for equestrian fans to watch horseback riding events, post-matches. In addition, the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival will run from February 1 till 11, and will showcase different purebred horses in competition with each other. These horses are known to symbolize strength and pride in Arab culture. Sports The World Aquatics Championships 2024 is taking place from February 2 – 18, 2024 at Aspire Dome, Old Doha Port, and Hamad Aquatic Center. This tournament will be hosting 2, 600 top athletes, from over 190 countries, for 75 medal events, with an opportunity for athletes to quality for Olympic Games Paris 2024. Sports include swimming (including open water and artistic), diving and high diving, and water polo. Residents can witness top-class aquatic performances from athletes from all over the world. For further inspiration, follow Qatar Calendar at https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar. Book your tickets to experience the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023TM tickets here: https://asiancup2023.qa/en

Open a world of flavours and experiences as Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), the country’s biggest culinary celebration organized by Qatar Tourism, returns on its 13th edition on 7 – 17 February 2024, at Expo Family Zone at Al Bidda Park. The festival this year will witness the participation of over 100 food stalls, including some of the most renowned restaurants from Qatar and the region. Expect live cooking shows, masterclasses, and cooking competitions from prominent local, regional, and international chefs. QIFF will offer families endless entertainment options and food enthusiasts a space to express their mutual passion for different cuisines and serve as a platform for chefs to showcase their talents. Everyone’s Invited! Vendors looking to register for kiosks for QIFF 2024 can register at: https://www.qatartourism.com/en/business-events/calendar-of-business-events/qatar-international-food-festival.

In alignment to the current trends on pursuing health & economic resilience in our current post-pandemic era, the 5th edition of the Philippine Property & Investment Show – Qatar (PPISQ) has themed its com-back event this year as the Philippine Wealth & Wellness Conference Qatar to be held from 19-20 January 2024. This annual gathering for Filipino business community leaders organized by the Association of Filipino Real Estate Executives in Qatar (AFREEQ) is known to be the 2nd largest Philippine Trade Event next to the annual Philippine Independence Day Celebrations has been held every year since 2015 and after a brief hiatus it now returns after a nearly 4-year break due to the recent contagion. This event is dedicated to primarily promote investments both in Qatar and the Philippines to the Filipino & Expat community in Qatar will be highlighting opportunities this year in the financial & well-being sector in addition to its usual promotion of financial literacy, social entrepreneurship, real estate and tourism between the Philippines and Qatar through exhibits and special talks conducted by distinguished business icons and government leaders from both countries. This event will also be complemented by a Trade Fair & Exhibition, a Food Bazaar & some cultural presentations between topics. The honorable Undersecretary Dr.  Enrique Tayag of the Philippine Department of Health has already accepted AFREEQ’s invitation to be the keynote speaker of this prestigious event as the organizers look forward to the confirmation of other visiting guest speakers from the legislative committees of health and finance from the Philippine Congress. Representatives from the Philippine State-owned Overseas Filipino Bank, one of the event’s presenters will also be proving financial education lectures mostly in digital banking. Qatar is home to 260,000 Filipino expats with many of its entrepreneurs contributing to the nation’s economy. The country is known for its aggressive prioritization of well-being initiatives as it has invested at least $ 6 billion in its healthcare industry since 2017 and has greatly liberalized its business establishment rules thus encouraging more start-ups in support to the nation’s 2030 vision of economic sustainability & diversification. According to Joseph Timothy Rivera, AFREEQ’s Chairman Emeritus and co-chairman of the event’s organizing committee, it is imperative for every person to first capitalize on his healthy well-being and basic sound financial standing so that we could easily take advantage of more investment opportunities not just in real estate but through other sustainable income-generating instrument henceforth leading to the strategic generation of wealth. During the sidelines of contract signing ceremonies between AFREEQ and ABESQ Hotel, the appointed hotel venue of the event, Rivera also shared other highlights to the 2-day business conference such as the induction of the incoming officers of AFREEQ led by its 2024 chairperson Ms. Bhem Asperilla of Megaworld International as well as the hosting of the Annual Philippine Gala Night on the evening of the first day 19 January 2024 in partnership with Kulinarya Qatar and the awarding ceremonies of notable Filipino workers in Qatar during the 2nd day 20 January 2024 in collaboration of AKO OFW Inc. All leading medical & wellness establishments as well as most business-oriented & entrepreneurial organizations in Qatar have been invited to attend this event. The PPIS-Q was first held at the SwissBel Hotel in 2015 and in Katara in 2016. The following year, the 3rd PPIS-Q was themed as the Philippine Trade & Tourism Conference held at the former Shangri-La Hotel and as the Philippine Agricultural, Livelihood & Reintegration Conference held at the Intercontinental Hotel The City in 2018.