Qatar Tourism receives awards for World's Leading Business Travel Destination 2023, World’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2023, and World’s Leading Sports Tourism Destination 2023 Qatar Tourism was awarded three prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony, a significant win that recognises the country’s advancements in tourism and its rising position as a leading destination on the world tourism map. Qatar Tourism was recognised for its position as the 'World's Leading Business Travel Destination 2023,' the 'World’s Leading Sports Tourism Destination' and for launching the World’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2023.’ The awards were received by Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Marketing and Promotion Officer and Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Director of Shared Services and Mr. Philip Dickenson, who leads International Markets and MICE at Qatar Tourism. The celebration took place on December 1, 2024, at the Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE. In addition, Qatar Tourism was also recognised with a surprise ‘Resilience’ award for its continued efforts. Commenting on the awards, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Marketing and Promotion Officer at Qatar Tourism, said: “It has been a privilege to receive three coveted titles at the World Travel Awards. This latest achievement underscores Qatar Tourism’s commitment to sharing the Qatar story to the world, elevating the visitor experience, and solidifying the destination as an attractive choice for both leisure and business travelers. With a world-class calendar of events lined up for 2024, we are confident that Qatar will continue to provide an unparalleled tourism experience to its visitors and continue to differentiate itself with its fusion of culture, tradition and contemporary experiences.” Winning the title of ‘'World's Leading Business Travel Destination 2023’ reflects Qatar’s strategic focus on MICE and its expanding business offering. With eased travel policies, seamless logistics into and around the country, and state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, and a combined exhibition space of 70,000 square meters, Qatar presents a compelling offering as an ideal location for major global events. The title of ‘Middle East's Leading Marketing Campaign 2023’ is attributed to Qatar Tourism’s Feel More in Qatar campaign which strategically launched last year following the conclusion of the World Cup to build on the momentum of the tournament. The 360-global campaign was launched in over 17 markets and highlights the country’s position as an exciting destination and as the Middle East’s top choice for the well-travelled tourist. The award for ‘Middle East's Leading Sports Tourism Destination’ reflects Qatar's commitment to host major sporting events. Since the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Qatar has held numerous sporting events including the Qatar GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup 2023, Qatar TotalEnergies Open, Qatar ExxonMobil Open, Formula 1, to name a few. Reflecting the country’s culture of athleticism, Qatar Tourism has also appointed Mutaz Barshim, a celebrated Olympic and World champion, as its latest brand ambassador. Qatar also creates an environment for athletes to thrive, as noted in the recent world record set by athlete, Jan Roose, who completed the longest LED-lit slackline walk ever attempted on a single building in the performance titled, ‘Sparkline.’ The World Travel Awards seek to reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards are globally distinguished as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

The 2024 Finishers Championship in Qatar is set to take place at Doha's Khalifa International Stadium on February 17, 2024. Featuring the top fighters, this Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event will consist of a 12-match eliminator. A recent organizing committee meeting discussed the upcoming championship and was attended by key figures, including Sheikh Ali bin Mohamed bin Ghanam bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of the board of directors of Finishers Championship Qatar 2024, Jai K. Sudharsan, the Global Chairman of Finishers Championship, and other prominent officials.

50 Hot Air Balloons from 17 countries will fill Doha sky. Qatar Balloon Festival, that has become a popular annual event in Doha, is coming back for its 4th edition. The festival will take place from the 7th to 18th December in Katara. Just like its previous editions, Qatar Balloon Festival will offer a variety of entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages. The festival will feature display of more than 50 hot air balloons of different shapes and colors, family area with inflatable castles and variety of games for children, food court offering international street food as well as VIP Majlis for special guests. During the last edition, giant kites were added to the display and were very welcomed by the visitors who enjoyed launching their own kites to add vibrance to the event. “This year Katara was selected as the venue for Qatar Balloon Festival due to its convenient location easily accessible by metro and with plenty of parking area for private vehicles, as well as for its spectacular panoramic views of the Doha skyline.” Said Hassan Al Mousawi the CEO of Safe Flight Solutions the organizer of Qatar Balloon Festival. Dr. Buthaina Al Janahi, Head of Communications from Qatar Tourism said: “Qatar Tourism has been the strategic partner of Qatar Balloon Festival for years joining efforts in the mutual goal to promote Qatar as an exciting tourist destination for international visitors in line with 2030 vision and offer an exciting activity for the local community. Qatar is poised to welcome more visitors in the upcoming season. Visitors will directly experience our country’s unique offering of cultural and contemporary offerings, all set against a safe and inviting atmosphere.” On this occasion, Mr. Salem Al Marri, Public Relations & Communications Department Manager, said: “Organizing the Qatar Balloon Festival in its 4th edition in the Cultural Village Katara, the cultural and strategic partner, will be a wonderful opportunity for the public, as it is a cultural and tourism edifice to held different and various events and welcome large numbers of visitors, and we wish that everyone will enjoy all the activities and have fun.” Other sponsors and partners of the event are Doha Festival City, Fusion Group Holding, Point Junction, Celebration Palace and iMagic. Morning flights will take place at sunrise from various takeoff locations that are decided one night before and subject to the wind direction and weather conditions. Those who are interested to come and watch the simultaneous takeoff of fifty hot air balloons will need to follow the festival’s social media for the takeoff location updates. To promote public engagement, the festival is offering 1000 hot air balloon ride tickets at a subsidized price of QAR 499, available for booking through asfary.com, the premier online portal for local activities and travel born in Qatar to serve Qatar and Beyond. These tickets will be available for flights from today to 31 March 2024. Festival website: https://www.qatarballoonfestival.com Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/qbfestival/

Family of five desert rodents first used in 2011 make a return for upcoming AFC Asian Cup™ Many fans will remember the family of five desert rodents unveiled as the official mascots of the Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ from 2011. Saboog, Tmbki, Freha, Zkriti and Traeneh will once again be the face of Asia’s most prestigious football tournament, after making their debut twelve years ago when Qatar last hosted the AFC Asian Cup™. The familiar characters were presented as mascots for the Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ at a special ceremony in Doha. For Hassan Al Kuwari, Marketing and Communications Executive Director of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Local Organizing Committee (LOC), the return of the mascots to this year’s edition of the tournament is a testament to a long legacy of excellence in hosting mega sporting events in Qatar. “The mascots of the 2023 Asian Cup invoke wonderful memories from 2011, but also embody the excitement and energy of what will certainly be an amazing competition,” said Al Kuwari. “The five characters are inspired by Qatar’s natural environment and present us with yet another wonderful opportunity to showcase our culture and heritage to football fans from around the world.” The characters are the creation of Qatari artist Ahmed Al Maadheed. When working on the characters, Al Maadheed wanted to attribute different characteristics to each of the family members, much like the different roles football players take on during a football match. The artist also wanted to create a set of characters that resemble a traditional household in Qatar, while paying tribute to all four corners of country. “From the very beginning, we wanted to do something that inspired families and young people to be a part of the Asian Cup,” said Al Maadheed. “We wanted to do dig deep into our rich ecological heritage and find an animal that could represent the best of what happens on the pitch and also in our daily lives, and that was the jerboa.” Al Maadheed added: “We decided to present a family of jerboas, each with its own distinctive personality, as a way of acknowledging the importance of teamwork in football, but also acknowledging the importance of family life to societies in Qatar.” The characters have been brought to life for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ through an anime-inspired animation produced by Katara Studios. In the buildup to the event, and throughout the tournament, which takes place between 12 January and 10 February 2024, audiences will be treated to an animated work that invokes the nostalgia of iconic cartoons of the past. The animation was directed by Fahad Al Kuwari, with the song performed by Qatari artist Dana Al Meer and the legendary Tarek Al Arabi Tourgane. The mascots of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ are Saboog, Tmbki, Freha, Zkriti and Traeneh. Since first making an appearance 2011, they have grown up, matured, and are now ready for a new edition of the AFC Asian Cup™. The first in the series of five mascots is Saboog, the blue colored son of the family. His name is derived from the commonly used word to refer to the jerboa in Qatar. Second is Freha, the pink-colored eldest daughter of the family named after an area with the same name in the north of Qatar. Third is Tmbiki, a yellow-colored younger son named after the Timbic region in the east of the country. The parents are Zikriti and Traeneh, a green-colored father and a purple-colored mother respectively. They are named after Zikrit in Qatar’s west, and Tranaa in the north of the country. 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.

Qatar Tourism has launched a brand-new campaign featuring Qatar’s diverse attractions and event line-up that is set to make the most of Qatar’s renowned winter season. The ‘Hayyakum Qatar’ campaign has been launched Out-of-Home and on social and digital platforms. The campaign highlights four main angles: Here’s to Your Joy, Here’s to Your Gatherings, Here’s to Your Laughter, and Here’s to Your Excitement, each of which is reflected by images of specific destinations or events. Commenting on the new campaign, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Marketing and Promotion Officer at Qatar Tourism said: “We are thrilled to reveal this campaign and showcase the family-friendly attractions and events that await residents and visitors this winter. Having already welcomed more than three million visitors this year, Qatar is poised to keep up the momentum and welcome even more visitors in the upcoming season. Visitors will directly experience our country’s unique offering of cultural and contemporary offerings, all set against a safe and inviting atmosphere.” Here’s to Your Joy ‘Here’s to Your Joy’ showcases Qatar’s extensive and state-of-the-art retail venues, such as the Parisienne-inspired mall, Place Vendôme, the luxurious Al Hazm Mall, and the famed 21 High Street in Katara Cultural Village. As part of Qatar’s extensive retail offering, residents can look forward to Shop Qatar – the country’s biggest shopping festival which is set to return this winter season. The festival sees the country’s most prominent and popular malls participating in a range of exciting events including fashion shows, makeup masterclasses and other forms of exceptional entertainment. Lucrative promotions are also in store with win prizes to be won like luxury cars, apartments, and cash. Here’s to Your Gatherings From budget street eats to restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs, Qatar’s food scene is wide-ranging and can be tailored to suit every preference. The campaign highlights the joy of gathering over a shared meal at one of the many leading restaurants available in the county. Qatar’s gastronomic largesse is best witnessed at the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), an annual tradition that brings together the best chefs in the region and internationally. The upcoming winter season will see the festival’s 13th edition, and bring to audiences live entertainment, cooking masterclasses and a chance to meet the global top chefs. Here’s to Your laughter Qatar’s entertainment landscape has just expanded with the recent soft launch of Meryal Water Park. Located on the newly developed Qetaifan Island, the park is home to the 85-meter high ‘icon tower’ and offers a selection of exciting attractions including a total of 36 waterslides. In addition, the campaign highlights the thrill and adventure to be found at Lusail Winter Wonderland, which has also recently re-opened. Here’s to Your Excitement This winter, Qatar promises a line-up of live performances, concerts, and comedy shows, creating the ultimate festive atmosphere. There will also be a number of renowned events including 5th edition the Qatar Hot Air Balloon Festival and maritime experiences at Hamad Port.

Qatar International Art Festival 2023: A Symphony of Global Creativity and Cultural Unity In the heart of Doha, from the 20th to the 25th of November 2023, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city played host to the Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF) 2023, a six-day celebration of artistic expression, cultural exchange, and creative exploration. Organized by the esteemed Qatari Company MAPS International WLL, under the visionary leadership of Ms. Rashmi Agarwal, the festival unfolded as a magnificent tapestry of artistry, bringing together over 300 artists from 61 countries and drawing more than 10,000 enthusiastic visitors. Ms. Rashmi Agarwal, Head of the Event, set the tone for the festival in her inaugural address, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the State of Qatar for providing a nurturing environment for artistic growth. She extended special thanks to the collaborative efforts of partners and sponsors, highlighting the significant contributions of Expo 2023 Doha, Katara Cultural Village Foundation, UNESCO, British Council Qatar, ICOM Qatar, Indian Embassy, and numerous others. Her words encapsulated the spirit of unity that underpinned the festival's success. Over the last five years, QIAF has evolved into a global platform, a testament to the unwavering commitment of its organizers. Ms. Agarwal remarked, "Thanks for the great time…and the great memories. I am sure the extravaganza will become for you all a cherished memory, a snapshot that you will showcase for the rest of your lives." These sentiments echoed the sentiment that QIAF is not just an event, but an indelible memory etched in the minds of all who participated. Acknowledging Partners and Supporters: A Gratitude-filled Overture QIAF 2023 stood tall on the pillars of collaboration and partnership, and the organizers took a moment to express their sincere appreciation. Festival partners, including Expo2023 Doha, Katara Cultural Village Foundation, ICOM Qatar, UNESCO, British Council Qatar, DPS Modern Indian School, and Arab Institutional Academy, were recognized for their invaluable contributions. The organizers also thanked participating art galleries, international and national artists for enriching the festival with their diverse perspectives. The festival's red-carpet VIP opening, graced by H.E. Professor Dr. Khaled Bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, General Manager of Katara Cultural Village Foundation, elevated the event to new heights. Distinguished guests, ambassadors, and representatives from over 40 embassies in the State of Qatar added a touch of diplomatic flair to the opening, setting the stage for a week of artistic brilliance. A Canvas of Learning: Workshops and Masterclasses QIAF wasn't merely a display of finished art but a journey of learning and collaboration. Renowned artists led art workshops and masterclasses, providing a unique opportunity for participants to hone their skills. Art workshops by Haafiza Azaz Sayed, Shadiya Mohammed, Borka Chirinos Sattler, Natalia Curmanova, Tamara Mazzawi, Joud Khalaf Al-Rushidat, Cecilia Ruth Brook Master Classes by International And National Master of Arts - Wissam Al-Nasairi, Shima Amia, Reshat Ameti, AZADEH KARIMKHANI, Pantea mahrou, Sara Khalid Al-Hail, Dushan Ristovski, Emine Humeyra Bayraktar, Vasko Ristovski, Statira Alyea. Dialogue on Art and Sustainability: A Thought-Provoking Panel Discussion The festival's intellectual core was the Art Panel Talk and Discussion themed "The Science of 'ART' towards Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility." Ms. Rashmi Agarwal was joined by a distinguished panel, including. Mr Abdullla Yousef Al Mulla – Director of 321- Qatar Olympics and Sports Museums, Dr Waseem Kotoub - Country Director British Council Qatar, Mr Jack Thomas Taylor - Associate Curator and Interim Director Board Member – ICOM, Mr Abdulla Al Naama - General Manager Msheireb Museums, Ms Moudhi Al Hajri – Veteran Qatari Artist, and philanthropist. Ms Alanoud Jamal - Sports Specialist – Project Management Ms Amna AL Mohanadi – Health and wellness consultant Mr Khalifa AL Obaidly - Director & CEO Fire Station Museum – Qatar, Mr Rasul Samadov - Programme Speciaist UNESCO, Mr Maher Mansour - Student Affairs Supervisor - Arab International Academy. This insightful dialogue explored the intersection of art and environmental consciousness, emphasizing the role of artists in fostering sustainable practices. Enriching Minds: The Art Conference The festival expanded beyond canvas and brush with the organization of an Art Conference, featuring six experienced personalities from Qatar and around the world. Covering topics from the importance of sports and art for the youth generation to the connection of art with horticulture and sustainability, the conference facilitated a rich exchange of knowledge and cultural experiences. Mr Abdullla Yousef Al Mulla - Director of 321- Qatar Olympics and Sports Museums. Knowledge shared on the topic "Importance of Sports and Art for our Youth Generation." Mr Abdulrahman Al Ishaq - Director, Public Art, Qatar Museum – Topic "Public Art is a powerful form of expression" Dr Hafiz Ali Abdulla - Board Member, ICOM Senior Director – Corporate Communication, Msheirib Properties – Topic “knowledge and experience on and about esteemed ICOM Qatar” Ms Rawda Mubarak Rashid Al-Amri – Cultural Consultant, Ministry of Culture, Qatar. Topic “About Qatar - Q Change” Ms ESTRELLA DE JESÚS BLACKBURNS DE APARICIO – Veteran Artist, Colombia, Topic “CONNECTION OF ART WITH HORTICULTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY” Dr Waseem Kotoub – Country Director British Council Qatar - Topic “Arts response to Global Changes” Cultural Extravaganza: An Evening of Harmony A Cultural and Musical Evening, with H.E. Mr. Vipul, the Ambassador of India to Qatar, as the Guest of Honor, added a melodic note to the festival. The cultural extravaganza featured performances from the Indian Cultural Centre, enchanting melodies from Pandit Santosh and Avinash band, and the artistic expressions of Iranian artist Hadis Ghamoos, creating an atmosphere of harmony and unity. Networking in Art: A Dinner of Connections A Networking Dinner during the festival provided a platform for participants and dignitaries to engage in meaningful conversations. International artists found a space to connect, share ideas, and build relationships, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcended borders. Live Painting Art: A Competition of Creativity The festival's dynamism reached its peak with a live paintings competition that witnessed the participation of over 100 artists. The vibrant strokes and innovative expressions resulted in five outstanding winners, each awarded cash prizes and trophies, reinforcing the festival's commitment to recognizing and encouraging emerging talents. Discovering Qatar: Cultural Tours Beyond the confines of the festival venue, QIAF offered international participants a glimpse of the rich cultural tapestry of Qatar. Cultural Tours exploring museums, the city of Doha, and the desert safari allowed artists to immerse themselves in the heritage and beauty of the State of Qatar. Fashion with Purpose: Artistic Fashion Show One of the festival's most anticipated events was the Artistic Fashion Show held on November 24th, 2023. Attended by over 3,000 people, the show unfolded in four parts, each with a theme centered on sustainability and the environment. The creative prowess of DPS Modern Indian School students and faculties was showcased in a sustainable fashion show, while the live mannequin fashion show featured QIAF participants. A Grand Finale: Award and Felicitation Ceremony The festival crescendoed to its grand finale on November 25th, 2023, with the Award and Felicitation Ceremony. Ms. Fatema Al Sulaiti, Director of International Cooperation at Qatar Museums and Vice Chair of ICOM Qatar, along with esteemed guest Mr Mugahid Mohammed from Expo2023 Doha, Mr Salem Al Marri- PR Manager from Katara Cultural Village, Ms. Guiomar Payo- Program Coordination officer UNESCO Qatar, and Dr. Waseem- Country Director British Council Qatar, were felicitated for their remarkable contributions to the world of arts. All the participating Galleries, and QIAF 2023 participating participants were felicitated during the ceremony. Concluding Statement: A Harmonious Farewell to QIAF 2023 As the curtains descended on the 5th Edition of the Qatar International Art Festival, the resonating echoes of creativity, collaboration, and cultural unity lingered in the air. The festival, a kaleidoscope of artistic expression, transcended boundaries, bringing together artists, thinkers, and art enthusiasts from around the world. In her concluding statement, Ms. Rashmi Agarwal expressed gratitude for the memories created and the collective success achieved. "I am sure the extravaganza will become, for you all, a cherished memory, a snapshot that you will showcase for the rest of your lives," she remarked. This sentiment encapsulated the enduring impact of QIAF, where art became a conduit for shared experiences, fostering a global community bound by the love of creativity. QIAF 2023 was not merely a festival; it was a testament to the transformative power of art, a beacon illuminating the path towards a more interconnected and culturally enriched world. As the art world reflects on the memories and inspiration garnered during these six days, the legacy of QIAF continues to resonate, promising a future where art knows no boundaries, and the spirit of creativity knows no limits.

Doha, Qatar: The Qatar Central Bank has unveiled an enhanced edition of the QPAY electronic payment gateway. The updated version facilitates swift processing of local online transactions, reducing expenses for merchants. Additionally, it enhances security measures, mitigating the risk of financial fraud. The Qatar Central Bank stated that this launch aligns with the Financial Sector Strategy and reflects its ongoing commitment to organize and advance the country's financial sector. Emphasizing the bank's dedication to staying current with advancements in payment systems and electronic fund transfers, it noted, "This initiative is part of Qatar Central Bank's ongoing efforts to enhance payment system infrastructures."

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.