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.

Doha, Qatar – October 11, 2023: Under the patronage and attendance of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the first edition of the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar (GIMS Qatar) was inaugurated in an official opening ceremony at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). Silver Lake Motors - a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding -, the authorized distributor of the prestigious EXEED luxury car brand, proudly marked this official opening by welcoming His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Minister of Interior. They were warmly received by Mr. Hisham Salah Al Mana, Chairman and Managing Director of Al Mana Holding, along with Mr. Qin Chao CEO, EXEED International and Mr. Peter John Matkin, Chief Engineer, EXEED International. The event’s activities continued Friday, October 6th, with the regional unveiling of the highly anticipated all-new EXEED RX, a momentous occasion that attracted significant attention from international, regional, and local media. The all-new EXEED RX, an awe-inspiring cross-coupe masterpiece, captivated the audience with its emotionally charged and elegant design, earning the prestigious Gold Award from the International Design Award (IDA). Embodying the design language of "Aesthetics of Light" and a futuristic appearance that epitomizes "new luxury," the all-new EXEED RX set new benchmarks for exquisite aesthetics within the automotive industry. Beneath the hood, the all-new EXEED RX boasts a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol direct injection engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The model lineup includes both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants, offering a remarkable Max Power of 261hp and peak Torque of 400Nm. It offers versatile drive modes, including Eco, Normal, and Sport, as well as terrain modes for off-road, mud, and snow. Conveying his sentiments, Mr. Hisham Saleh Al Mana stated: "We take immense pride in introducing the EXEED brand and its exciting new premium electric series to the passionate motor enthusiasts of Qatar. With its impeccable reputation and alignment with our unwavering dedication to progress, this emerging automotive marque caters to a diverse range of customers, placing a strong emphasis on innovation and an uncompromising quality that can be relied upon." Mr. Qin Chao said: "I am thrilled to announce our substantial presence at this esteemed automotive event, where we take immense pleasure in introducing the all-new EXEED RX, as well as an impressive array of SUVs to the discerning audience of Qatar. This momentous occasion marks a thrilling milestone in our journey, and celebrates our partnership with Silver Lake Motors and Al Mana Holding – a collaboration that provides an invaluable platform to expand our brand's reach and solidify its reputation." On Saturday, October 7th, Silver Lake Motors hosted an exclusive event tailored exclusively for Chinese media at the EXEED showroom in West Walk Doha, which proudly stands as the largest EXEED showroom in the Middle East. This event provided the media with an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the brand's prominent presence in Qatar and its prestigious showroom location. At the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar 2023, the EXEED stand takes center stage, showcasing the supercharged all-wheel-drive SUV, all-new EXEED RX, the upgraded EXEED VX 7-seater SUV, and the premium intelligent SUV TXL. Notably, this event marks a historic moment as EXEED unveils their premium battery electric series, aptly named EXLANTIX, a name that conjures the allure of the legendary civilization, Atlantis. Drawing inspiration from Atlantis' cutting-edge energy system, EXEED is committed to turning legends into reality, offering users the pinnacle of comfortable mobility experiences. Under the EXLANTIX series banner, two eagerly anticipated EV models are soon to become available in Qatar: the EXLANTIX ES and the EXLANTIX ET. EXEED's SUV lineup has swiftly gained recognition for its exceptional performance, top-notch safety features, and striking design, establishing itself as one of Qatar's most coveted automotive brands. Enthusiasts and visitors alike can explore the future of luxury automotive innovation with EXEED at the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar 2023 until October 14.

In a move that heralds a significant business venture, Hama, the esteemed German distributor of accessories with a rich history spanning over a century, has officially declared its foray into the State of Qatar. This exciting development comes through a strategic partnership with Dohatna Innovative Distribution, an esteemed arm of Ali Bin Ali Holding, a leading conglomerate in the country. The announcement was made during an event held at Crown Plaza Doha- The Business Center on October 10, 2023, witnessed by over 100 attendees including stakeholders, representatives from both companies, media professionals, and avid electronic enthusiasts. Hama marked its entry into the Qatar market earlier this year and is poised to unveil an impressive portfolio of over 300 products. These offerings are a testament to the brand's promise of premium German quality, combined with affordability, and come with product warranties ranging from 1 to an impressive 30 years, even for the simplest accessories. Known for its expansive catalogue of more than 18,000 products, Hama is synonymous with providing ideal accessories that enhance the everyday product experience. Currently, the brand boasts a global presence in over 70 countries. Inaugurating the event, Mr. Jayakrishnan Poduwal, the Director for the Middle East, Africa, and India at Hama, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, particularly with Dohatna. He stated, "Hama has consistently maintained its dedication to delivering German-quality products at accessible prices. As a company with a century-long legacy in the electronics accessories industry, our entry into the Qatar market is a significant milestone. It is a source of immense pride that, after almost a century, we remain steadfast in our unwavering commitment to quality." Mr. Azhar Baksh, the Operations Manager of Dohatna, commended the effort to enhance business prospects between the two companies, aiming to offer quality products, exceptional service, and competitive pricing to the Qatar market. "Hama has established strategic alliances with Dohatna Innovative Distribution in Qatar to ensure extensive coverage across the entire country. Additionally, the brand has set up retail channels, allowing it to connect with a wider consumer base spanning millions in Qatar," Mr. Baksh emphasized. Quality, exceptional service, and competitive pricing are at the core of Hama's mission. The brand is dedicated to catering to the tech-savvy generation by offering top-tier accessories such as gaming peripherals, headphones, multiport hubs, multi-device wireless mice, mobile accessories including Apple-certified products for iPhones and iPads, HDMI cables, binoculars, camera trolley bags, and tripods. This collaboration between Hama and Dohatna underscores an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional quality products and services, poised to redefine product presence and usage not only in Qatar but also across the entire GCC region. With this venture, the vibrant Qatari market is set to experience an exciting influx of innovative and top-notch accessories, marking a new era of technological advancement and consumer satisfaction.

Filipino golfers hailing from various corners of the Gulf region converged at the esteemed Arabian Ranches Golf Club in Dubai, UAE on September 28-29, 2023, to partake in the highly anticipated 2nd GCC Filipino Golfers Club Tournament. The annual tournament, inaugurated in Oman the previous year, witnessed an enthusiastic assembly of Filipinos and guests from Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The event served as a splendid platform for golf aficionados to unite, fostering a sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie within the community. The UAE Filipino Golfers Club orchestrated this thrilling two-day affair, drawing the participation of 68 players hailing from the six Gulf nations, including distinguished figures such as the Philippine Ambassador to UAE and officials from the Philippine Consulate in UAE. Representatives from Qatar, led by Eugene Bautista, President of the Philippine Golf Association Qatar (PGAQ), and Team Captain Francis Gaspar, showcased their golf prowess at the event. The Qatar delegation fielded two teams, showcasing the talents of esteemed members like Rolando Valencia, Winston Agcon, Dean Ball, Sam Roseman, Jade Roseman, Betty Faniega, Mara Jansuy, Mark Lagat, Chris Corcelles, and Marlon Canonizano. The first day of the tournament witnessed intense competition amid scorching temperatures, as Qatar's Team A secured a narrow lead of one point over the host UAE Team A. The evening turned into a lively affair of fun and traditional videoke, with players showcasing their vocal talents. As the second day unfolded, teams delivered exceptional performances, and the tournament's champion remained uncertain until the very last hole. Ultimately, Qatar Team A maintained their lead over UAE Team A, clinching the championship with a single-point advantage. In addition to the team victory, Qatar also swept most of the individual awards, including Best Stableford Men (Day 1) - Winston Agcon, Best Stableford Ladies (Day 1) - Mara Jansuy, Best Stableford Men (Day 2) - Eugene Bautista, Longest Drive Men (Day 1) - Dean Ball, Longest Drive Ladies (Day 1) - Mara Jansuy, 2s (Day 1) - Winston Agcon, 2s (Day 2) - Dean Ball, Overall Men (3rd) - Chris Corcelles, Overall Men (2nd) - Dean Ball, and Overall Ladies (2nd) - Jade Roseman. Looking ahead, PGAQ eagerly anticipates defending their title in the coming year's tournament, set to take place in Bahrain. The 2nd GCC Filipino Golfers Club Tournament was a grand success, uniting golf enthusiasts and promoting friendly competition within the Filipino community across the Gulf region.

Doha: mytrips.travel is your ultimate travel solution, right at your fingertips. Proudly serving the residents and citizens of Qatar, mytrips.travel is a collaborative venture between the Al Jaber Group in Qatar and the Al Rashed International Group in Kuwait. mytrips.travel is thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse travel needs and preferences of the people of Qatar. Our primary goal is to provide swift and efficient travel services, tailored to the specific requirements and conveniences of our valued customers in Qatar. We're dedicated to offering exceptional support, even after travel arrangements have been made, ensuring a hassle-free experience that includes itinerary changes, cancellations, refunds, and more. mytrips.travel is committed to serving the people of Qatar by the people of Qatar. Our services are specially designed to meet the unique travel needs of Qatar residents and citizens. whether you're planning a trip to explore the wonders of Europe, a romantic getaway to the historic sites of Bali, a pilgrimage to Japan's sacred temples, indulging in Gulf's cultural festivities, or seeking sports and entertainment in the USA, or a wellness retreat in Thailand and India, mytrips.travel is the one-stop solution for all your travel needs. mytrips.travel offers a wide range of services, including flight tickets, hotels, tourist destinations, visas, insurance, and incredible packages that cater to travelers' desires and preferences. With access to over 450 airlines, 100K Hotels and more than 100 packages worldwide, mytrips.travel has tailored travel experiences for travel enthusiasts. We understand that travel plans can arise at any time. That's why mytrips.travel provides round-the-clock service to ensure your travel needs are met whenever you need. We pride ourselves on going above and beyond for our customers. Mr. Mohammed Sultan Al Jaber, Chairman of the Al Jaber Group, Mr. Ravi Varrier, CEO of Al Rashed International Group, Mr. Pradeep Menon, CFO of Al Rashid International Group, Mr. Ahmed Al Jaber, Director – Al Jaber Group, Salah Khateeb, Cluster General Manager of Century Hotels and Mr. Dileep Nair, General Manager of Al Jaber Travels and Tours were present in press conference.

Brought to life by Qatar Tourism, the iconic destination will be home to a Parade of Excellence, live music entertainment and an auto-life village. The Parade of Excellence, held in collaboration with Sealine Circuit Sports Club – Mawater, will see up to 100 unique cars take part in a captivating, two-hour parade. As part of the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) Qatar, which is taking place outside of the show’s native country of Switzerland for the very first time, Qatar Tourism announces the activation of an Urban Playground at the iconic Lusail Boulevard. Scheduled for the second weekend of GIMS Qatar, the Urban Playground brings to life the passion and energy of the prestigious motor show to the public with live, free entertainment and a spectacular display of dream cars. From October 12 to 14, a daily program of festivities will take place from 17:00 to 22:00 which includes a dynamic lineup of music artists, DJs, and engaging talks at a designated centre stage by the impressive Lusail Plaza Towers. Throughout the weekend activation, an Auto-Life Village will bring to visitors an immersive experience with culinary delights, retail shops, and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy that include a pit crew challenge, car doodle experience, and bike circuit game. Sheikha Hessa Jassim Al-Thani, Head of Marketing and Planning Department at Qatar Tourism, said: “The Urban Playground is set to bring the energy and excitement of GIMS Qatar right into the heart of one of the most iconic destinations in Qatar. The weekend-long festivities at Lusail Boulevard are free and open to the public, and we invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable celebration of car culture.” Eng. Ali Al-Ali, Chief Development and Asset Management Officer - Qatar at Qatari Diar, stated: "We are delighted to partner with Qatar Tourism for The Urban Playground, which takes place on the sidelines of one of the world's most prestigious automotive exhibitions, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS Qatar). This edition marks the first time the renowned international exhibition is being held outside its original home in Switzerland.” He continued: “Hosting the Urban Playground at Lusail Boulevard underscores the elevated status of Lusail City as a preferred destination for global events. It showcases Lusail's ability to efficiently host diverse events while ensuring maximum safety, entertainment, and enjoyment for attendees. The weekend-long festivities at Lusail Boulevard will be one of the fantastic events hosted by the city. It will provide a great opportunity to explore the many exciting activities accompanying the exhibition, including stunning car displays. We are pleased to welcome all attendees to this wonderful event.” On October 12, at 19:00, the GIMS Qatar Parade of Excellence, which is being held in collaboration with Sealine Circuit Sports Club – Mawater, will see up to 100 unique cars take part in a captivating, two-hour parade. In a true celebration of automotive culture, the parade will feature newly revealed cars, supercars, classic cars, and museum pieces, as well as roaming acts and performances that will surely entertain the whole community. Salem Al-Muhannadi, Head of the Sealine Circuit Sports Club – Mawater, said: “We are delighted to participate in the Urban Playground festivities, as it provides our avid automobile enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to showcase their unique cars while promoting the country’s car culture. We carefully selected the cars that will be participating in the Parade of Excellence, aligning with the grandeur of the Geneva International Motor Show which is being held in Qatar for the first time.” The Urban Playground is one of several events taking place during the inaugural edition of the GIMS Qatar. The events will see Qatar transform into the ultimate automotive festival with immersive experiences that span prominent tourism destinations in the country, including Lusail Boulevard, Sealine, National Museum of Qatar and the Lusail International Circuit. GIMS Qatar runs from October 5 – 14, 2023 and has opened to the public on October 7. Covering more than 10,000 m2 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), GIMS Qatar is set to be the region’s most prestigious and influential automotive show featuring 30 renowned automotive brands, 10+ world premieres and 20+ regional premieres.

Some of the biggest events of the year take centre stage in the latest edition of Qatar Tourism’s monthly Qatar Calendar guide With the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar, Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2023 and Expo 2023 Doha all lined up in October, the latest edition of the Qatar Tourism monthly Qatar Calendar guide is packed with some of the biggest events of the year. In addition to major sporting events, October will see international art exhibitions, significant trade fairs and musical performances, among other events, which collectively cater to diverse tastes and interests and are suited to audiences of all ages. Commenting on the exciting calendar for this month, Sheikha Noor Abdulla Al-Thani, Acting Head of Tourism Events and Festivals Organising Section at Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar is a hub for global, world-class events, which will be clearly demonstrated in this upcoming calendar of events in October. Taking place across some of Qatar’s most elaborate venues, the events simultaneously highlight Qatar’s commitment to creating premium sporting facilities, concert halls, museums, and green spaces that elevate the leisure and entertainment experience.” Sporting Events Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) October 5 – 14 Spanning over 10,000 m2 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), the exhibition will host 31 renowned automotive brands, including Toyota, Lexus, Porsche, Volkswagen, Lamborghini, BMW, KIA, Audi, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Vinfast, Chery and much more. GIMS Qatar is set to showcase the latest innovations from industry, 10+ world premieres and 20+ regional premieres. Alongside the main exhibition, GIMS Qatar 2023 will create the ultimate automotive festival of automotive excellence in Qatar with four immersive experiences taking place across some of the most prominent tourism destinations in the country. These include a ‘Future Design Forum’ at the National Museum of Qatar, thrilling offroad adventures at Sealine, exhilarating ride-and-drive experiences at the Lusail International Circuit, an exquisite gallery of classic automobiles, and a grand parade of automotive excellence along the iconic Lusail Boulevard. Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2023 Lusail International Circuit October 6 – 8 The Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix 2023 will be coming to the iconic Lusail International Circuit, offering an exciting weekend for fans to witness the world's most elite drivers go head-to-head. The on-circuit action will be complemented by entertainment post-race, with exclusive live performances from legendary Egyptian singer Amr Diab on October 6, Swedish DJ and music producer Alesso on October 7, and renowned American singer Bruno Mars on October 8. Qatar Olympic Committee Padel Championship Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex October 16 – 22 The Qatar Olympic Committee Padel Championship will see professional players compete in one of the many Padel Championships in Qatar. 2023 CBQ Masters Golf Championship Doha Golf Club October 26 – 29 The 26th edition of the Commercial Bank of Qatar Masters is back underway at the Doha Golf Club. The highly anticipated sporting event is widely known for bringing together the world’s best golf talents, the likes of Sergio Garcia, Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, Justin Rose, Ernie Els, and Henrik Stenson who have all competed in past years. Curated Exhibitions and Trade Fairs Al Maraya Trade Fair Katara Cultural Village September 21 – October 7 Ongoing until October 7, visitors can still visit the Al Maraya Trade Fair located at the Katara Cultural Village. The trade fair offers an excellent selection of exclusive products including women’s abayas, perfumes, incense, fashion accessories, rugs, antiques, and popular food products. Expo 2023 Doha Al Bidda Park October 2 – March 28, 2024 The first A1 international horticultural Expo in the MENA region will be hosted in Qatar with the Expo 2023 Doha taking place over the expansive grounds of Al Bidda Park. Set to bring together thought leaders and thinkers of the industry, the event will shed light on how we can better our environment and develop our economies sustainably and with more green spaces. With its six-month duration, Expo 2023 Doha will offer an unparalleled opportunity for tourists to experience Qatar. Arab Fintech Forum Ritz-Carlton Doha Hotel October 10 – 11 Tech enthusiasts are in for a treat, as the Arab Fintech Forum will be hosted in Doha where it will be addressing the challenges and opportunities of the global fintech ecosystem. M7 Pop-Up M7, Msheireb Downtown Doha October 22 – November 3 M7 at Msheireb Downtown Doha will host its first pop-up event of the year, where emerging designers from the region will showcase their work to local and international audiences. Visitors will discover the latest fashion, accessories, and product brands while shopping for their latest collection curated by regional designers. Index Design Qatar 2023 Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) October 23 – 25 Part of the index portfolio of events, Index Design Qatar 2023 connects guests with global brands and manufacturers to discover the next big thing in interior design. Asjad Jewellery Al Hazm October 26 – October 30 Jewellery enthusiasts can head over to Al Hazm mall to witness one of the most luxurious jewellery exhibitions in the Middle East. Musical Performances Aedh Yousef and Abdulla Al Mana Concert U Venue October 5 U Venue will host some of the Gulf region's most celebrated artists in a captivating night of music with melodies performed by Saudi Arabian singers Aedh Yousef and Abdulla Almana. Historic Art Exhibitions Fashioning an Empire: Textiles from Safavid Iran Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) October 23 – April 20, 2024 Those who are interested in history and art will have the chance to visit this exciting exhibition, which highlights the critical role of silk during the Safavid period (1501-1736 CE). The Shape of Time: Art and Ancestors of Oceania National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) October 24 – January 25, 2024 Those interested in cultural heritage and art can visit the National Museum of Qatar from October 24 and witness nearly 130 cherished works from The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s unparalleled Oceanic collection, which are travelling outside of The Met’s walls for the first time in nearly a century. Dan Flavin and Donald Judd Exhibition The Qatar Museums Gallery, Al-Riwaq October 25 – April 24, 2024 The Qatar Museums Gallery, Al-Riwaq will host a highly anticipated exhibition on the work of late Dan Flavin (1933-1996) and the late Donald Judd (1928-1994), two of the most influential figures of minimalism. The exhibition is organised by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in collaboration with Qatar Museum.

Qatar is making preparations to host the highly anticipated AFC Asian Cup 2023, and to ensure its success, the local organizing committee has launched a Volunteer Program. The program aims to recruit approximately 6,000 volunteers from Qatar who will play a crucial role in various functional areas throughout the event. With great enthusiasm, Jassim Al Jassim, the CEO of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Local Organizing Committee, sees the Volunteer Program as a significant milestone in the tournament's preparations. The bustling Lusail Stadium will serve as the focal point for volunteer recruitment, where shortlisted applicants will be invited to engaging face-to-face group interviews. Once selected, volunteers will undergo comprehensive training to prepare them for their roles. Some volunteers may start their shifts as early as December 1, 2023, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants and spectators. Their responsibilities will include tasks such as spectator services, accreditation, and media operations. Interested individuals who are either Qatari nationals or residents of Qatar and at least 18 years old can submit their applications through a dedicated portal at https://volunteer.asiancup2023.qa/login. This is an incredible opportunity for passionate individuals to contribute to one of Asia's most prestigious sporting events and be part of Qatar's legacy as a host of major international tournaments.

Qatar Tourism leads delegation at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, meeting with dignitaries from seven nations including Turkey, Jordan, Spain, China and Uzbekistan. Qatar Tourism signs MoU with leading Saudi tour operators Al Mosafer and Al Matar to promote Qatar as leisure tourism destination. On World Tourism Day (September 27) by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Qatar Tourism lead a strong delegation at this year’s host city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, participating in numerous discussions with regional tourism ministers and dignitaries to discuss the rapid development taking place across Qatar’s tourism sector. As part of the event, Qatar Tourism signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with leading Saudi tour operators, Al Matar and Al Mosafer, to promote Qatar as a destination to families and leisure-seeking travelers in Saudi Arabia. His Excellency Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Deputy Chairman of Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar’s delegation at this esteemed event saw numerous meetings and fruitful discussions with dignitaries from across the region. We are proud to shine a spotlight on the strong investments being made by Qatar to expand and further develop its tourism sector. As part of Qatar Tourism’s longer-term vision, forming partnerships such as these strongly demonstrates our commitment to key markets and our ongoing pursuit of the 2030 tourism strategy.” Qatar Tourism held constructive meetings with key tourism leaders from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Spain, China, and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to bolster relations worldwide. Meetings saw the esteemed presence of: H.E. Mr. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism in Saudi Arabia; Mr. Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority; H.E. Mr. Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey; H.E. Mr. Makram Mustafa Al-Qaisi, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan; H.E. Mr. Walid Nassar, Minister of Tourism of Lebanon; Mr. Umid Shadiev, Chairman of the Tourism Committee at the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan; H.E. Ms. Rosa Ana Morillo Rodriguez, Secretary of State, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism of Spain; and Mr. Ji Xiaodong, Chairman of the China Chamber of Tourism. Discussions included streamlining visa facilitation processes, refining regulatory frameworks, coordinating joint promotional efforts, and devising strategies to attract both tourists and investments across markets. The MoU’s with Al Matar and Al Mosafer aim to promote Qatar's travel deals and world-class tourism offerings across the tour operator’s online platforms and offices. Both tour operators will work to inspire travellers to visit Qatar by promoting the destination’s calendar of events, top attractions, retail and dining hotspots, while also offering a suite of travel packages that are available all year-round. A special marketing focus will be dedicated to the upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, which will include tailored travel packages comprising of match tickets, flights, accommodation, and transportation, alongside booking incentives and offers. Saudi Arabia is the top-source market for international visitors to Qatar; all GCC countries feature in the top 10 markets to Qatar. Entering Qatar is seamless, as GCC nationals have no visa requirements. The Hayya Platform provides an option to apply for an entry permit for companions of GCC nationals. Visitors who are entering Qatar via land at the Abu Samra border can enjoy faster entry for vehicles through the pre-registration option provided on Hayya platform, making the start of their stay in Qatar smoother and more enjoyable.