By: Engr. Dave G. Sanchez Qatar Bowling Center in Doha, Qatar came alive with the vibrant celebrations of PICE Qatar's 16th Foundation Day on May 26, 2023. The event, which brought together PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families, was a delightful blend of nostalgia, camaraderie, and exciting games. The foundation day celebration served as a memorable occasion for PICE Qatar to reflect on its journey over the past 16 years. The organization has been instrumental in bringing together Filipino civil engineers in Qatar, fostering professional development, and contributing to the development of the engineering industry in both Qatar and the Philippines. In his opening remarks, PICE Qatar's President Engr. Elvin Fajutagana extended a hearty welcome. He emphasized the work of the Chapters' Founding Members and Presidents for staying with the Organization to this day. They taught us that we should all be united; after 16 years of mutual understanding and respect for one another, we stayed bonded and understood that we are all the same in this organization as PICE Qatar members. Another message from PICE Qatar Chapter President Engr. Roy Baquiran reflects on the Chapter's formation, which began in 2007 on the rooftop of his house with 25 founding members. The highlight of the celebration was the presence of two esteemed guests who graced the occasion with their wisdom and words of encouragement. Ms. Cherry Rhose Cureg, representing the Department of Migrant Workers, shared her insights on the vital role that overseas Filipino worker, particularly engineers, play in Qatar's development. She emphasized the importance of unity, brotherhood and support within the Filipino community, especially in times of challenges and uncertainties. Her Excellency Ambassador Lillibeth Pono from the Philippine Embassy to Doha also delivered a heartfelt message, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of PICE Qatar in promoting the interests of Filipino engineers in Qatar. She commended the organization for its continuous efforts in upholding professionalism, excellence, and camaraderie among its members. The event further captivated the attendees with an array of fun-filled activities and exciting games. The Qatar Bowling Center provided the perfect setting for friendly competitions among the participants. Laughter and cheers echoed through the lanes as PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families enthusiastically showcased their sportsmanship skills. It was an opportunity for everyone to bond, create new memories, and strengthen the already close-knit PICE Qatar community. As the day progressed, participants engaged in various games and challenges that further added to the excitement and camaraderie. From thrilling table tennis games to focused minded billiards & darts, brain teasing Chess & extra speed hands for table football, the event fostered a spirit of friendly competition and teamwork. The 16th Foundation Day celebration not only served as a platform for reflection and enjoyment but also as an avenue for PICE Qatar to express its gratitude to its members and officers for their unwavering support. Through their commitment and dedication, PICE Qatar has been able to achieve significant milestones and make a positive impact in the lives of Filipino civil engineers in Qatar. The event concluded with a closing ceremony that included expressions of appreciation for everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration. PICE Qatar's 16th Foundation Day celebration at Qatar Bowling Center Doha marked a significant milestone in the organization's journey. It was a day filled with cherished memories, laughter, and exciting games, all contributing to the strengthening of the bond among PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families. The presence of esteemed guests added further significance, reminding everyone of the vital role that Filipino engineers play in Qatar's development and the importance of unity within the community. As PICE Qatar looks to the future, this foundation day celebration serves as a reminder of its commitment to excellence, professionalism, and camaraderie. With each passing year, the organization continues to evolve, creating more opportunities for its members and contributing to the growth of the engineering industry in Qatar and the Philippines.

Qatar Tourism leads delegation of Qatar’s finest hotels and travel agencies at one of the region’s biggest travel and tourism events Qatar Tourism will lead a delegation of 10 hospitality partners at the 13th edition of the Riyadh Travel Fair, which takes place from May 22-24, 2023 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center in Riyadh. This follows Qatar’s remarkable success in welcoming over a million visitors in the first quarter of this year, led by arrivals from Saudi Arabia mounting to 892 k visitors who predominantly visited Qatar via the Abu Samra land border. Qatar Tourism’s 96 sqm pavilion will showcase the destination’s one-of-a-kind infrastructure and latest hospitality developments which uniquely blend cultural authenticity with modernity. Qatar's participation at Riyadh Travel Fair strongly demonstrates the country’s ongoing commitment to the Saudi traveler market and marks Qatar Tourism’s second participation in a major travel exhibition in Saudi Arabia this year. Omar Al Jaber, Director of Shared Services at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are pleased to take part in the Riyadh Travel Fair and showcase Qatar as a world-class tourism destination that is within close proximity to Saudi travellers. Saudi Arabia is a key market according to our longer-term tourism strategy and we continue to witness significant arrival figures, particularly around festive occasions and national holidays. Throughout the event, we aim to bring industry leaders up to speed with the sheer scale of the expansion in Qatar’s tourism sector as well as highlight eased travel procedures that the country extends to its neighbours. We invite all attendees to visit our pavilion and experience Qatar’s famed warm Arabian hospitality and explore the latest tourism offerings.” Along with showcasing Qatar’s latest attractions, visitors to Qatar Tourism's pavilion at Riyadh Travel Fair will receive a new summer guide on all there is to see and do in Qatar during the summer season along with highlights on offers for stays and attractions. With the city of Doha’s recently awarded title of Arab Tourism Capital for 2023, Qatar continues to invest in its tourism sector and work toward its 2030 strategy which sees the sector’s contribution to GDP grow to 12%. Building on the country’s legacy of hosting the first FIFA World CupTM tournament in the region, Qatar has re-launched the Hayya Platform in a new form, unifying visa processes to the country and creating even more seamless travel opportunities for visitors who require a visa. While GCC nationals and over 95 nationalities already can travel visa free to Qatar; all remaining nationalities – independent of job category - who require a visa, can apply easily for the GCC resident Visa A2 category on Hayya. Riyadh Travel Fair is one of the largest travel events in the region that connects global industry professionals from leading national, regional, and international organisations. The event highlights tourism products, services and investments made by some of the most significant names in accommodation and hospitality, airlines, and tourism destinations.

Qatar Tourism has installed an official monument on the Doha Corniche, in recognition of Doha’s landmark Arab Tourism Capital for 2023 title, which was awarded by the Arab Ministerial Council earlier this year. The monument, which reflects the official Doha Arab Tourism Capital 2023 logo, is positioned in a photogenic location on the Corniche. The design of the monument was inspired by the slogan of Doha Capital of Arab Tourism 2023, which reflects the city of Doha as a modern centre for tourism rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Since Doha received the prestigious award, Qatar’s tourism sector has welcomed an incredible start to the year. With over a million visitors in the first quarter of 2023, Qatar registered its highest ever first quarter of international arrivals. In April, Qatar Tourism announced the re-launch of the Hayya platform in its new form, inviting tourists who currently need a visa to Qatar to enjoy the country’s famously warm Arabian hospitality and diverse touristic offering. The Hayya platform unifies all visa process for tourists and business visas to Qatar.

29 inspiring projects by Arab and international filmmakers from 18 countries highlight DFI’s commitment to promoting independent voices in cinema. Four projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent along with 12 projects from women filmmakers and 10 returning filmmakers. More than 750 films from 75 countries have been awarded DFI’s Grants, the region’s longest-serving film development initiative that supports first-and second-time filmmakers globally. Cannes, France; May 20, 2023: The Doha Film Institute underlined its commitment to nurturing emerging voices in cinema from across the world today at Cannes Film Festival 2023 with the announcement of the recipients of its 2023 Spring Grants cycle. A total of 29 films from 18 countries have been selected for the current cycle of the Middle East region’s longest-serving film development initiative that has supported over 750 diverse projects from 75 countries to date. Awarded in two cycles – Spring and Fall, the Institute Grants programme has evolved as one of the flagship film funding initiatives focused on strengthening a vibrant creative ecosystem and supporting emerging voices from all over the world to help them realise their cinematic aspirations. The Grants support projects including feature and short narratives, documentaries and experimentals as well as TV series. In addition to Qatar, recipients of the 2023 Spring Grants include film projects from Algeria, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, Lebanon, Mongolia, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Sudan and Tunisia. Recipients include 12 women filmmakers and 10 returning grantees along with four projects from Qatar-based talent, underlining the Institute’s commitment to supporting important voices and the continued evolution of independent cinema from the region and beyond. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, said: “We are on a mission to discover and promote original and independent voices in cinema, and have had the great privilege of supporting the most powerful and important voices from the region and beyond through our Grants programme. Our Spring Grants 2023 reinforces our continued commitment to filmmakers globally who have once again impressed us with the diversity and depth of the original themes they are exploring in their stories. This current cycle of projects was chosen from hundreds of compelling submissions, and we are proud to bring these soulful stories to global audiences.” The 2023 Spring Grants recipients are: MENA – Feature Narrative – Development Kohl & Cardamom (Egypt, Sweden, Qatar) by Fady Atallah is set in a small Egyptian town in the late 1980s, where 14-year-old Abdullah faces a nerve-wracking challenge when he agrees with his father not to cause trouble for five days in return for being able to attend a concert by the then-rising superstar Mohamed Mounir. Rabies (Lebanon, Qatar) by Sandra Tabet is about a History professor who obsesses over the unresolved Lebanese civil war while struggling to mend her fragile relationship with her son. To Bled or Not to Bled (France, Algeria, Qatar) by Azedine Kasri follows Dali, who wants to live the Algerian dream but a chance meeting with a woman changes everything. MENA – Feature Narrative – Production A Quarter to Thursday in Algiers (Algeria, France, Belgium, Qatar) by Sofia Djama depicts a risky mission given by three friends disillusioned with the demonstrations that shake the city of Algiers. Aïcha (Tunisia, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Mehdi M. Barsaoui explores how far one can go to break free from their past. Aisha Can’t Fly Away Anymore (Egypt, Tunisia, Qatar) by Morad Mostafa is about Aisha, a Somali caregiver living in Cairo, who witnesses the underworld of African migrants’ society and the tension between the different groups. La mer au loin (France, Qatar) by Saïd Hamich Benlarbi is about 27-year-old Nour who emigrated illegally to Marseille and lives off petty crime with friends leading marginal lives, and partying hard. MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production Back to Alexandria (Switzerland, France, Qatar) by Tamer Ruggli is about Sue, who returns to Egypt to meet her estranged mother, Fairouz, an eccentric aristocrat. This surprising journey, leading her from Cairo back to Alexandria, allows Sue to become the empowered woman she ought to be. East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) by Hala Elkoussy is a fable about musician Abdo, who rebels against his elders, seeking freedom through his art in a confined world outside of time. Non-MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production Banel & Adama (France, Senegal, Mali, Qatar) by Ramata-Toulaye Sy is set in a small village in northern Senegal, where Banel and Adama's love challenges traditional customs, disrupting their community. Excursion (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Norway, France, Qatar) by Una Gunjak highlights the contemporary life of a teenage girl whose seemingly little lie leads her into a storm of expectations, condemnation, and social dogmas. Lost Country (France, Serbia, Luxembourg, Croatia, Qatar) by Vladimir Perišić is about a 15-year-old who must accept the unacceptable—that his mother is an accomplice of the regime’s crimes. The Women (Germany, Italy, Qatar) by The Maw Naing is about a young Burmese woman who moves to the big city to work in a garment factory to support her family. Ze (France, Mongolia, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar) by Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir is about a teenage shaman who falls in love with a girl, shattering his fragile existence in modern Mongolia. MENA – Feature – Experimental/Essay – Development Tell it to Bridges (Lebanon, Qatar) by Ali Hammoud follows a quest for a forever home which leads to one being lost and the other not entirely found. MENA – Feature Documentary – Production I Am One of Them (Poland, Qatar) by Nadim Suleiman is about a Syrian immigrant who shoots a film about a Polish nationalist, and becomes an excuse to bring the two together, setting them out on a faraway trip to discover their identities. MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production The Language of Fire (Algeria, France, Qatar) by Tarek Sami highlights that while a nomad is free from accountability, immobility must be accounted for. Non-MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production Ozogoche (Ecuador, Qatar) by Joe Houlberg is about the migration of the Cuviví bird to the Ecuadorian highlands, which ends in collective suicide as they plunge into the Ozogoche Lakes Rising Up at Night (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Belgium, Germany, Burkina Faso, Qatar) by Nelson Makengo documents how plans to build the largest power plant on the Congo plunge 17 million people into darkness and insecurity. MENA – TV Series – Development Dyouf (Guests) (Palestine, Qatar) by Saleh Saadi is about a family of five that runs a guesthouse in their Bedouin village in Occupied Palestine while living in a turmoil of relations, identity, and career. Halaa’ (Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar) by Amal Al Muftah is an anthology of Middle Eastern crime stories that explores the complex ironies of human morality. MENA – Web Series – Production The House That My Mother Built (Sudan, Qatar) by Alyaa Musa introduces eight women from across Sudan as they share their astonishing encounters with the inhabitants of the households they took refuge in during Sudan’s revolution in 2019. MENA – Shorts – Narrative – Production Autumn (Qatar) by Aisha Al-Jaidah is a romantic tragedy of the captivity of ambitious thoughts under short roofs. The Experiment (Qatar) by Abdulla Alhor is set in a prison in a Middle Eastern city where a Qatari researcher must win a promotion challenge to prove that his rehab experiment works. The Day I Smoked a Cigarette with My Father (Egypt, France, Qatar) by Sameh Alaa is set in 1964, when 12-year-old Alaa and his three siblings prepare to welcome their father who is returning from prison. MENA – Shorts Documentary – Production Fast Net Palestine (France, Qatar) by Mohamed Khamkham narrates the story of a Palestinian computer scientist who reconstructs the killing of hundreds of children in Gaza during the summer of 2014 in a video game. MENA – Shorts – Experimental/Essay – Production No Reaching Hand (Qatar) by Batla Aldosari follows a young woman through a series of disturbing events as she tries to find her true self. L’mina (France, Morocco, Qatar) by Rande Maroufi is set in a former mining town in Morocco, which declines in its fortunes until all mining is ceased in 2001. The Grocery List (Bahrain, Qatar) by Taqwa Ali is about a young man who rebels against his mother after she rejects a bottle of milk of his choice.

Doha - Qatar, May 20, 2023: BSH Middle East celebrated its 10th anniversary of partnership with Darwish Holding, its exclusive Bosch distributor in Qatar during a gathering held in Doha and attended by a dedicated team from both entities to celebrate this milestone. The partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding started in 2013, with Darwish Holding becoming the exclusive distributor of Bosch products in Qatar. Over the last 10 years, the partnership has been able to continuously grow the business and increase Bosch’s share in the home appliances market in Qatar. During the last decade, the partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding has flourished, driven by a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With Darwish Holding's expertise and Bosch’s high-quality appliances, the partnership has been able to expand its reach across Qatar, making Bosch home appliances available across all major retailers in the country and successfully involving Bosch home appliances in major projects in Qatar. As part of its commitment to the Qatari market, BSH Middle East, in partnership with Darwish Holding, opened its first brand store on Salwa Road in September 2014 and then relocated to its permanent location at Lagoona Mall in October 2018. At the same time, Darwish Holding has been a perfect partner for Bosch as it took part in many premium projects across the city during the last few years including Katara Towers, QatarEnergy District, The Seef, Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, Floresta Gardens, and Giardino Village to name a few, and thus assuring a perfect pipeline of many other projects to come. Bosch’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable home appliances has made it the go-to choice for many customers, whether they are looking to outfit their new houses, upgrade their kitchens or make their homes more sustainable. Today, Bosch home appliances are available across all major retailers in Qatar, and Darwish Holding has a dedicated Fifty-One East Service Centre with certified technicians. This ensures that customers can receive the highest quality of service and support for their Bosch home appliances. BSH Home Appliances Middle East CEO, Tomas Alonso, in a statement on the occasion of the anniversary, said, “At BSH, loyalty and trust are two of the main values we hold while working with our partners. In this case, we can only be proud of the business and personal relationship that developed between Bosch and Darwish Holding during these last 10 years of collaboration, based on the foundation of our mutual values. Now, as part of our DNA, let’s continue working together to grow and gain a bigger market share for the years to come.” Commenting on this special occasion, Mr. Bader Al-Darwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Darwish Holding said: "Today, as we celebrate a decade of partnership with Bosch as the brand’s exclusive distributor in Qatar, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this incredible journey. I extend a special thank you to Mr. Tomas Alonso and his team, who have joined us in celebrating this milestone. Over the past decade, our team has worked tirelessly to build a very strong database of loyal customers which helped in establishing Bosch as a household name in Qatar. Our solid partnership with the brand has been instrumental in achieving outstanding growth year after year. We have developed a relationship of strong cooperation built on mutual trust and respect that has enabled us to deliver the highest quality products and after-sale services.” “As we reflect on the past ten years, we take pride in our accomplishments, and we stay indebted to our loyal customers who have entrusted us throughout. The next decade promises to be even more exciting as we work closely with Bosch to bring them the best in German technology and know-how. I truly look forward to continued success together," he added. The partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding has been a testament to the success that can be achieved when two companies work together to provide the best products and services to their customers. BSH Middle East looks forward to continuing this partnership, bringing Bosch's innovative home appliances to even more customers and improving the lives of every home in Qatar.

18 May 2023, Doha, Qatar. The excitement was palpable as the preliminary screening for Ginoo at Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023 took place at the Philippine School Doha (PSD) Gymnasium on May 18, 2023. This is in preparation for the upcoming Philippine Independence Day 2023 Celebration on June 23, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel. A total of 11 candidates for Mutya and eight candidates for Ginoo participated in the screening representing various regions of the Philippines. The regions represented by the Mutya candidates are NCR, CAR, Region 3, Region 4A, Region 6, Region 7, Region 9, and Region 12. On the other hand, the Ginoo candidates hailed from NCR, Region 3, Region 4B, Region 5, Region 7, Region 9, and Region 11. All candidates successfully qualified to advance to the official pageantry, a promising sign for what is to come in the upcoming event. A board of judges, composed of Mr. Jyerex Abrasado, Mr. Isaias Marcelo, Mr. Ivan Caceres, Dr. Rosanna Barrera, Engr. Danica Rose Alcantara, and Mr. Mike Saratan, conducted the preliminary screening. The pageant committee is now eagerly looking forward to the next phase of the pageant, which includes rehearsals, official sashing, photoshoots, personality development seminars and workshops, and an official press conference before the main event. The event organizers expect this year’s celebration to be more significant than ever due to the pandemic and all the challenges it has presented. Despite this, the organizers remain committed to providing an enriching experience for the participants and a memorable event for everyone attending.

Whether you're a fan of intense fight scenes, epic battles, or heroic journeys, these action movies offer something for everyone. Get ready to be thrilled and entertained by these adrenaline-fueled adventures! Corrective Measures, streaming now on STARZPLAY Starring action icons Bruce Willis and Michael Rooker, Corrective Measures is a gripping thriller that follows two inmates as they team up against prison corruption. Packed with intense action sequences and adrenaline-pumping moments, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The Matrix movies , streaming now on STARZPLAY A ground-breaking sci-fi action franchise , The Matrix stars Keanu Reeves as Neo, a computer programmer who discovers the horrifying truth about the simulated reality controlling humanity and the real world that lies behind it. With mind-bending visuals and jaw-dropping fight scenes, this franchise has become a cult classic and a must-watch for action enthusiasts. Batman Begins, streaming now on STARZPLAY This reboot of the Batman franchise introduced Christian Bale as the iconic Dark Knight. Batman Begins explores the origins of the caped crusader as he takes on the corrupt forces threatening Gotham City. With a stellar cast and Christopher Nolan's signature storytelling, this film showcases Batman's transformation into a symbol of justice. Justice League, streaming now on STARZPLAY Bringing together DC's greatest superheroes, Justice League unites Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), Batman (Ben Affleck), Aquaman (Jason Momoa), The Flash (Ezra Miller), and other iconic characters to save the world from a catastrophic threat. Action-packed battles, charismatic heroes, and a touch of humor make this superhero ensemble an exciting watch for fans of the genre. Dunkirk, streaming now on STARZPLAY Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Tom Hardy, Dunkirk is based on true events. The film tells the gripping story of the evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War II. Featuring intense aerial dogfights and heart-pounding sequences, the film showcases the heroism and resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. With thousands of hours of premium content including blockbuster movies, exclusive TV shows, kids’ content, Arabic series, as well as varied content via add-on channels, STARZPLAY is the number one player in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The service is available in 19 countries across the MENA for fans to enjoy quality content anytime, anywhere, and from any device.

Globally renowned #TrainDifferent philosophy by UFC GYM continues to take Qatar by storm promoting athletic inclusion with its unique market offering May 17, Doha, Qatar: UFC GYM Qatar, an extension of UFC® and Al-Mana Holding, celebrated the Grand Opening of their second gym by hosting renowned UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, as he took the gloves off and cut the ribbon at the inauguration event held at The Pearl, Qatar. Global leaders in MMA-inspired fitness, UFC GYM continue to disrupt the fitness industry in Qatar with Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) inspired training. The new state-of-the-art gym offers unlimited classes and personal training sessions in MMA, Boxing, Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, HIIT and an array of Youth Programs, as well as a dedicated gym-area, a UFC Octagon, and much more. There is also an exclusive women’s area in the gym hosting female-only classes. To mark The Pearl gym’s opening, the UFC GYM team are offering a free pass to help unleash your inner fighter - visit the UFC Gym Qatar website to get your spot now and discover the customised membership tiers that fit your needs! During his visit, Islam Makhachev commented: “This gym has everything, its great! We can do our training camps here since it has everything. It’s a major platform for combat sports in Qatar and hopefully MMA’s future champions in the octagon. It’s clear to see how the country’s created this amazing reputation for hosting sporting events and why it’s becoming the sports capital of the world. Inshallah we will see a few UFC events here!” As Qatar continues to become a leading sports destination, what better place to kick-start your fitness goals than MMA. It is a brilliant way to exercise and stay in shape, as well as being far more enjoyable than hours on the treadmill! “The much-anticipated opening of our second location on The Pearl has become a central focus for Al Mana Holding,” said Abdulrahman Hamad Al Mana, Deputy CEO, Al Mana Holding. “Our research shows there is an appetite for an all-inclusive facility offering an MMA-inspired training space and traditional fitness under one roof,” he explained. “We’re very much looking forward to contributing to the growth of Qatar’s vibrant fitness community by continuously expanding our sports offering,” he added. The inauguration of The Pearl is part of Al Mana Holding’s expansion plans to promote UFC GYM’s unique ‘Train Different’ philosophy. This follows the New Salata branch opening last summer (Aug ’22) and another massive location opening in Al Kheesa at the end of the year. For all the latest news follow UFC GYM Qatar - The Pearl on Instagram (@UFCGYMPearl) and Facebook (@UFCGYMQA), visit the website (https://ufcgym.qa/), or contact the team about membership via +974 5111 8501 and +974 5111 8502.

The fully owned subsidiary of Doha Bank, Sharq Insurance, will showcase its comprehensive solutions for Home and Property Insurance Doha, Qatar – 17 May 2023: Sharq Insurance L.L.C, the general insurance company owned by Doha Bank, is pleased to announce its collaboration with Doha Bank at the highly anticipated Build Your House Exhibition, held from May 15 to May 18 at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC). This partnership will offer visitors an unparalleled experience and a comprehensive understanding of Sharq Insurance’s home and property insurance services. The Build Your House Exhibition, promises to be a remarkable event for homeowners, property enthusiasts, and industry professionals. Dedicated to the construction, fit-out and renovation needs in Qatar, the exhibition will showcase the latest trends and innovations in the industry. From 10 am to 10 pm during the exhibition days, Sharq Insurance and Doha Bank will showcase their expertise and innovative insurance solutions designed specifically for homeowners and property owners at their dedicated stand. Commenting on the exhibition, David Cook, CEO of Sharq Insurance L.L.C, said: “I am thrilled to participate in this significant exhibition that will provide us with a valuable platform to engage with homeowners, property investors, and industry professionals, and present our ultimate insurance policies to them. We invite everyone to join us and get acquainted with our comprehensive range of policies designed to protect your most valuable assets." Sharq Insurance has been the leader in Home and Property Insurance, offering a wide range of policies to suit everyone’s needs. The company’s Property Insurance policy is designed to provide coverage for losses arising from fire, lightning, and allied perils for properties, buildings, contents, factories, industries, and other premises. Similarly, the company’s Home Insurance policy is designed to provide coverage for the most valuable asset, providing protection against potential hazards that could wreck households such as fire, burglary, and other natural causes. Sharq Insurance provides a broad spectrum of policies that cater to both individual and corporate clients. These policies include Engineering, Property, General Accident and Liability, Marine, Motor, Medical, and Group Medical Insurance. The company is renowned for its streamlined and user-friendly processes that can be conveniently completed online, ensuring a hassle-free experience for its customers. Recently, Sharq Insurance recently received “Digital Transformation of The Year Qatar 2023” Award for the Insurance Sector by the Global Business Review Magazine, recognizing for its excellent digital offerings and rapid digitization.

Doha-Qatar, May 16, 2022: Huawei Middle East & Central Asia and SAMENA Telecommunications Council jointly hosted the 5.5G Leaders' Summit at Atlantis the Palm, Dubai, UAE, with a theme "10Gbps, Striding towards the 5.5G Era". The 5.5G Leaders' Summit brought together ICT leaders, regulators, industry organizations, including GSMA and WBBA, vendors, enterprises, analysts, chipsets, application ecosystem partners, and other experts to share their ideas, discuss various topics on creating sustainable 5.5G connectivity, and ecosystem aggregation platforms to foster collaboration, accelerate digital economic growth. Since the first launch of the 5G network almost four years ago, adoption has accelerated in the ME region. 5.5G is the essential upgrade for 5G, a key milestone for the increasingly integrated intelligent world, while 6G is still in early study. It will offer 100 times more business potential with a ten-times-better network experience than 5G. H.E. Mohammed Al Ramsi, Deputy Director General, TDRA UAE, gave an opening speech at the summit: “Technologies are developing and renewing and presenting us with great challenges and greater opportunities. Providing a sound regulatory environment is crucial for embracing 5.5G's potential fully. As such, the UAE has taken several steps, including the establishment of the ICT regulatory sandbox.” “I am quite sure that this session will lead to relevant and actionable insights on how we can leverage 5.5G technology to drive sustainable development and digital innovation in the UAE and globally.” In his opening speech, Mr. Steven Yi, President of Huawei Middle East and Central Asia, said: “Sustainable digital economic growth relies on three powers: transmission, computing, and storage. To build these powers, it is crucial to consistently invest in connectivity infrastructure like 5.5G, prioritize green deployment methods, and foster local digital talent.” Dr. Philip Song, Chief Marketing Officer of Huawei Carrier BG, delivered the keynote about ‘Striding towards the 5.5G Era,’ stating: “With the arrival of the 5.5G era, people will be able to enjoy true-to-life experience such as 3D video. With the maturity of the RedCap technology and the innovation of the Passive IoT technology, the industry digitalization process will be accelerated. We hope that all device and application partners, local content partners and policy makers can work together to create more values to society with the 5.5G era.” In his speech, Martin Creaner, Director General of the World Broadband Association, emphasized: "The WBBA is bringing together service providers, suppliers, users, investors and governments to remove the barriers and help realize the socioeconomic benefits of Giga/10Giga Society for the region." During the summit, Mr. Rashid Alahmedi, COO of InfraX, said: "5.5G with 10x network capabilities compared to 5G, will address the current technology gaps and enable various digital services in the power grid industry. However, business model innovations based on the new opportunities and close collaboration among stakeholders are key to driving the digital transformation in the power grid as well as many other industry sectors in the 5.5G era." Stephen Wilson, Omdia Senior Principal Analyst, delivered a keynote and said: "The demands on broadband networks are developing rapidly, pushed by a combination of rapid growth in connected devices, increasingly bandwidth hungry applications, and greater reliance on the cloud. Service providers need to invest in next-generation broadband technology to not only meet such demand, but also create new business models that will enable future revenue growth and ensure fast RoI." As part of this summit, Huawei also launched FWA², a new generation HBB service that is supported by advanced 5.5G technology. During the launch, Mr. Vanness You, Vice President of Huawei ME&CA CNBG, said: “With the large-scale commercial use of multi-carrier aggregation terminals and the development of RedCap technology, it’s time to upgrade from FWA standard to FWA². FWA² includes FWA Pro represented by up to 1 Gbps speed, FWA Lite and FWA Biz with the feature of low-cost and high-reliability. This is the first wave of use cases that can be generated by 5.5G.” At the summit, led by the UAE TDRA, etisalat by e&, du, infraX, Quanray, HTC, Lierda, and Huawei jointly launched the 5.5G OpenLab. The lab is dedicated to building a 5.5G ecosystem alliance, testing ecosystem interoperability, and developing advanced use cases for consumers, homes, and industry sectors.

Couples are invited to cherish their special day at Al Thuraya Ballroom, one of Doha’s most luxurious and sought-after wedding venues, offering bespoke packages and personalized service. Doha, Qatar – 16 May 2023 – Pullman Doha West Bay, a premium 5-star hotel in the heart of Doha’s West Bay, combining lifestyle and design for business and leisure, is pleased to announce a special summer package for weddings. Couples who book their wedding at the Pullman Doha West Bay between June and August will receive a special package starting at only 200 QAR per person, terms and conditions apply. Pullman Doha West Bay hosts the ideal venue for weddings, offering an exceptional experience with luxurious facilities and a dedicated team that ensures every detail is taken care of. Located in the heart of the city, Al Thuraya, Pullman Doha West Bay’s vibrant ballroom, can accommodate up to 750 guests, set in an impressive space with high ceilings, and boasting Arabesque-designed walls, and a Swarovski chandelier that adds an extra touch of elegance. Al Thuraya ballroom can also be customized to meet the specific needs of any wedding celebration, making it perfect for couples who want to make their special day unforgettable. Furthermore, the wedding package offers the bride and groom a one-night stay in the Executive Suite. The contemporary suite is a stylish retreat for newlyweds, with access to the stunning Club Lounge which adds to the overall exclusive experience. Guests can also enjoy packages for rooms and spa treatments, including massages and facials, as well as access to the outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Moroccan hammam, and beauty boudoir for a modern wellness sanctuary to unwind and relax. Commenting on the special summer package, Hajar Tabbai, Pullman Doha West Bay Wedding Sales Manager, who enjoys over 7 years of experience in the weddings industry said: “Our Al Thuraya Ballroom is a breathtaking gem that will elevate any wedding experience to new heights. The special summer package enables couples to celebrate their big day in an exceptional venue for a sophisticated and refined experience that the Pullman Doha West Bay is renowned for.” “What distinguishes Al Thuraya Ballroom is its secluded setting, ensuring a wedding that is both intimate and unforgettable. From the moment of signing the contract, our team of professionals will work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is taken care of, so that couples can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime,” she added. At Pullman Doha West Bay, every detail counts in making the night unforgettable. Brides can enjoy a cozy Bridal Room located adjacent to the ballroom, offering them and their entourage a comfortable space to prepare and add the final touches before the grand celebration. Meanwhile, the groom and his friends can use the Majlis, a private and intimate setting located just a few steps away from the ballroom, where they can enjoy refreshments and take a break from the wedding festivities. Both the Bridal Room and Majlis feature access to the ballroom and its foyer, a private elevator with direct access to the car park, sitting areas with chaise lounge and armchairs, and a guest bathroom with a large mirror. To view the specially curated wedding packages, guests can visit the hotel's website and browse the Dahab and Crystal packages. Floor plans can be downloaded from the website, while room options are also available for exploration. For more information about Pullman Doha West Bay’s wedding packages and offerings, email H8112-SB@accor.com or call +9744009 4000. For further inquiries, visit www.Pullman-Doha-Westbay.com.

Under the continuous patronage of Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani Doha-Qatar, 15 May, 2023: Under the Patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, officially inaugurated the fourth edition of the Build Your House Exhibition (BYH) 2023, along with HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Qatar Chamber, Mr. Rawad Sleem Co-Founder and General Manager, NeXTfairs (Exhibition Organizer), and Mr. Abdul Aziz Bin Hattab Al Kaabi Vice Chairman of Al Hattab Holding Board of Directors. The highly anticipated official opening ceremony at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) was held in the presence of Ministers, Ambassadors, dignitaries, VIPs, industry experts and media representatives. Following the opening ceremony, dignitaries conducted a VIP tour of BYH Exhibition 2023, meeting some of the 250 exhibitors participating in this year's event, including Ministry of Municipality, Ashghal, Kahramaa, Doha Bank, Décor & More, Living Spirit, Al Hattab Holding, Nabina Group, Nabina Holding, Al Emadi Stones, Rankoussi Group, JA&P Group, Bottega Design, Euro Systems and many more key players from the housing, design, and construction fields. They also visited international companies, which features exhibitors from Canada, Iran, Italy, Oman, the UK, Sri Lanka, KSA, Belgium, China, Algeria, India, Jordan, and Türkiye, showcasing advanced design and leading materials. They also visited the Education Above All (EAA) Booth, which demonstrates the work that the EAA Foundation, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and its human and social legacy programme, Generation Amazing Foundation have conducted to provide schools for hundreds of displaced Pakistani and Syrian children. Mr. Rawad Sleem, Co-Founder and General Manager of NeXTfairs for Exhibitions and Conferences, said: "We are honored to receive such incredible support from all facets of Qatar's society. Thanks to the help from esteemed dignitaries, VVIPS, government entities and the local business community, we have been able to strengthen Build Your House Exhibition to become the critical connection between construction, interiors, and design suppliers and the local citizens aspiring to build smart, sustainable homes fit for the future." He added: "Build Your House Exhibition takes its role as a leader in the roadmap towards Qatar becoming an advanced society extremely seriously. We continuously strengthen the event to ensure it enhances the construction sector's growth and empowers Qatari housebuilders. This year's event welcomes more exhibitors and showcases the highest standards from across the world. In addition, we have added another day, increasing the opportunities for attendees to get all the information they need to get their house-building project off the ground." Commenting on their participation as a key supporter and event partner, Major General Hamad Othman Al-Duhaimi, Director-General of the General Directorate of Civil Defence-Qatar, said: “We are pleased to be an active and essential partner of Build Your House Exhibition, the first Qatar-created exhibition of its kind within the country, which is concerned with providing all suppliers, materials and procedures related to the construction of residential and public houses. The exhibition has rapidly become a collaborative forum for knowledge and practical insight, providing the best procedures for obtaining approvals from license applications, engineering plans, safety systems, and the latest equipment and equipment used in rescue, protection, and security operations. It is imperative that we, as a Ministry of Interior department, support and provide practical guidance to introduce security and safety measures in homes and private facilities. We highlight the effective role of the General Administration and Civil Defense and the efforts made to upgrade our services to the highest levels of excellence and efficiency. He added: “We also showcase our care and attention towards other tasks, including licenses and the fulfilment of preconditions and approvals after building inspections. However, our role goes beyond the correct procedures and licenses; we also aim to spread a culture of preventing fires and accidents and how to act should the situation arise. It is a great pleasure to be part of this event. We would like to thank NeXTfairs and our fellow partners and exhibitors for contributing to this educational and empowering exhibition.” Speaking about their participation as Conference Partner, John Robertson, President AIA (The American Institute of Architects), Middle East, said: "AIA Middle East is immensely pleased to be once again part of the Build Your House Exhibition taking place this year from 15th – 18th May 2023 in Doha, Qatar. The BYH exhibition will be a bigger and better event this year, bringing together local homebuilders, contractors, consultants, and suppliers to provide a forum for communication, networking, and education. In addition, the BYH exhibition offers Qatari homebuilders an invaluable opportunity to gain inspiration and key insights into how to make their vision of a home a reality." He added: "The exhibition's organizers, NeXTFairs, deserve praise for their innovative efforts and resourcefulness in contributing to the Qatari design and home-building industry. The AIA Middle East is honored to participate in the BYH Exhibition 2023, and we wish the organizers and the participants a very successful event." Event partners, Ashghal have supported BYH since its inception in 2020. The event's objectives align with Ashghal's 2018-2023 strategic vision, "Excellence in delivering and managing efficient, sustainable infrastructure", and its efforts to make a tangible step towards transforming the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. BYH Exhibition enables Qatari construction and manufacturing companies to showcase their products, expertise and services, helping local citizens to utilize and support local suppliers. Commenting on their participation at Build Your House Exhibition, Jean Saade, Chairman of Living Spirit Interior Design, said: "The people we met at Build Your House Exhibition are invaluable. We have generated new potential clients and established business relationships with other exhibitors. We also received inspiring feedback from the visitors on the products and designs we showcased during the exhibit. On this BYH Exhibition 2023, we are confident about the positive outcome of all the hardship and effort invested by our team. We aim to provide a meaningful experience to valued visitors and highlight our new innovative interior design concepts and furniture. This spectacular event will surely inspire the visitors' perspective." A platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, BYH Exhibition bring together leading industry experts, government entities, and Qatari nationals under one roof. This edition also sees the participation of Education Above All Foundation, which aims to transform lives through education. They believe that education is the single most effective means of reducing poverty, creating peaceful and just societies, unlocking the full potential of every child and youth, and creating the right conditions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). EAA Foundation booth showcases the recent work conducted with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy and its human and social legacy programme, Generation Amazing Foundation, in partnership with Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) to donate 27 tents to use as schools, clinics, and temporary shelters for or displaced communities in Pakistan, Syria, Turkey, and Yemen. To aid EAA’s valuable work, Qatar interior design company Living Spirit will host anexciting live mural painting created by the internationally renowned painter Giovanni Bressana. Living Spirit’s stand will showcase the mural and auction this to donate 100% of the profits to EAA. Build Your House Exhibition 2023 has a continued commitment to enabling the construction and design sector – present and future – to flourish. This year's annual student design competition in collaboration with VCUarts University's interior design students allows three shortlisted winners to gain vital industry exposure as they showcase their designs at the exhibition. 21 students took place in the design challenge, and the winning entries will be announced and on view from tomorrow, Tuesday 16 May, at 3:00 pm. Build Your House Exhibition 2023 has rapidly become a must-attend event for SMEs and international industry experts to showcase their services to consumers in Qatar and empowering Qatari citizens to fully utilize the government’s provisions for land development, housing vouchers, and loans. The event continues to grow to become more immersive and entertaining. The Ministry of Municipality's booth encourages visitors to test their knowledge with their daily Doha Municipal Competition. Attendees can participate in the competition each day, and a winner will be drawn at 8 pm. The winner will receive a prize for a home agricultural area in the winner's garden. Attendees to Build Your House Exhibition 2023 can look forward to an enhanced array of services and products from consultants, contractors, suppliers – smart homes and general service industry leaders; immerse themselves in the event's extensive local and international participation, which welcomes exhibitors from Qatar, Canada, Iran, Italy, Oman, the UK, and companies from Sri Lanka, KSA, Belgium, China, Algeria, India, Jordan and Turkey; and, participate in the Knowledge Sharing Conference that offers practical workshops from government entities, live Q&As, and a free self-build course. The Knowledge Sharing Conference is open during the four event days, with daily talks and sessions starting at 11 am. Free event registrations for attendees are now available. Visit www.buildyourhouseqatar.com to register today.