17 Sep 2025, Doha - The Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with the National Planning Council, is conducting the National Immunisation Coverage Survey in the State of Qatar. The fieldwork for this survey will take place from 24 September to 24 December 2025. This National Immunisation Coverage Survey is the first of its kind in the country. It aims to scientifically and systematically measure vaccination coverage rates and their related determinants. The survey is designed to strengthen health security and ensure the continued provision of the highest levels of protection against vaccine- preventable diseases. The survey is targeting a random sample of more than 11,000 households, representing all residents of Qatar, both citizens and expatriates, who have children aged between one year and under seven years. Data will be collected from the children's guardians through home visits and by reviewing their vaccination cards. Today, the Ministry of Public Health held a press conference to announce the survey, during which Dr. Hamad Eid Al-Rumaihi, Director of the Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control Department at the Ministry, and Mr Saud Matar Al- Shammari, Director of Statistical Operations at the National Planning Council, spoke. Dr Hamad Eid Al-Rumaihi said, "This national survey reaffirms the Ministry of Public Health's commitment to protecting individuals and society in Qatar from health risks related to vaccine- preventable communicable diseases." He added: "The survey results will provide a comprehensive national database that will help develop the national immunisation programme, improve vaccination outreach to all targeted groups in Qatar, and continue making progress in addressing challenges." For his part, Mr Saud Matar Al-Shammari confirmed that all preparations have been completed for the commencement of the fieldwork, noting that participating researchers have received intensive training to ensure the quality of data collection and to guarantee genuine representation of the various segments of Qatari society. He stressed that all data collected will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. He added, "Immunising children directly contributes to achieving the third Sustainable Development Goal (Good Health and Well-being) by reducing deaths and diseases that vaccines can prevent. It is an effective and cost-efficient health intervention to strengthen health systems and achieve universal health coverage." The survey will be implemented in collaboration with the World Health Organization and in accordance with international standards adopted in this field, ensuring the data quality and the reliability of the results. This collaboration also extends the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Public Health and the National Planning Council, which has previously resulted in the implementation of several national health surveys, such as the National Survey for Measuring Risk Factors of Non- Communicable Diseases, the National Ageing Survey, and other surveys that have provided essential data to support and develop health policies and services in Qatar. It is worth mentioning that the National Immunisation Programme at the Ministry of Public Health, established in 1979, continues to develop its services regularly. Vaccinations are free of charge at 31 health centres affiliated with the Primary Health Care Corporation and 71 private health institutions. The national immunisation schedule includes 15 vaccines that protect against 17 diseases, from birth up to 18 years of age. The Ministry of Public Health invites all families participating in the survey to fully cooperate with the field teams and researchers. Participation in this survey is an essential national contribution towards building a healthy and safe future for our children. The public may contact the unified health sector call centre at (16000) for any inquiries regarding the survey and its field team.

The Hayya platform has recently been recognised for its outstanding achievements in technology and innovation, securing two regional accolades. Hayya was named Winner in the Travel Technology – Business Services category at the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2025 and received the Best Use of Digital by Sector – Travel Industry title at the MENA Digital Awards 2025. Commenting on the achievement, Saeed Al Kuwari, Director of Hayya, said: “We are proud that the Hayya platform has been recognised by two distinguished regional awards for its digital innovation. This achievement reflects Hayya’s evolution into a world-class platform that continues to set new standards for travel and tourism services. Our focus on integrating advanced technologies ensures visitors enjoy seamless, secure and efficient experiences, while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading global destination. With these recent awards, we have not only delivered the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ successfully but also fulfilled our vision of establishing Hayya as a lasting legacy that supports Qatar’s tourism sector. We remain committed to its ongoing evolution, ensuring the platform continues to drive innovation and excellence in line with Qatar’s tourism vision.” Originally designed to manage fan entry during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Hayya has since transformed into a comprehensive e-visa ecosystem, offering five distinct visa categories: the Tourist Visa (A1), GCC Resident Visa (A2), Visa with ETA (A3), Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4), and Visa-Free for US Citizens (F1). Hayya’s continuous innovation has transformed visitor experiences through advanced B2C technologies, including Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for automated document extraction, the upcoming Arabic OCR implementation to improve accessibility for Arab nationals and NFC-based passport scanning for instant passport data entry. On the B2B front, Hayya provides secure API integration enabling real-time ticket validation and identity-linked QR codes for seamless access across stadiums, hospitality venues, and transport services. The platform has successfully supported some of Qatar’s largest international events, including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, AFC Asian Cup 2023, Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix, and Web Summit Qatar 2024. Operated by   Qatar Tourism, Hayya serves as Qatar’s official e-visa digital platform. As Qatar’s central digital gateway, Hayya streamlines access to the country through integrated visa processing and event access, all within a single, user-friendly interface. The platform is designed to facilitate e-visa services while integrating events, domestic tourism, transport, lifestyle experiences, and everyday services into one unified solution for living, traveling, and connecting. Beyond enabling smooth entry via airports and land borders, it encourages visitors to explore Qatar’s cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and vibrant year-round events. The platform also supports major events by delivering tailored digital solutions for organisers, delegates, and attendees.

This fresh take on the South Border classic also marks Bautista’s first release under Sony Music Entertainment. Asia’s Romantic Balladeer, Christian Bautista , has dropped his long-awaited single, “ Rainbow ,” out today via his new record label, Sony Music Entertainment . The heartfelt duet, featuring Indonesian singer-songwriter Raisa , reimagines the South Border classic as a soulful pop-R&B ballad blending Christian Bautista’s smooth baritone with Raisa’s velvety vocals in a lush, emotionally charged arrangement that captures the kind of longing and connection that lingers long after the last note.   “‘Rainbow’ is one of those songs that’s always stayed with me,” says Bautista. “It resonates deeply, not just in the Philippines, but also in Indonesia. Working on it with Raisa gave it new energy and meaning, and it felt right to share it in this way now.”   “ Simply because I love this song—I grew up with this song—and I didn't even know at first that it was a Filipino artist who sang it! ” shares Raisa. “ When I found out, I was surprised. It has such a special meaning—not just about love but about life. It’s a reassurance of rainbow after the rain. It’s something people can relate to and carry with them every day.”   Christian Bautista and Raisa’s rendition of “Rainbow” delivers a heartfelt interpretation of the timeless OPM classic, heralding an exciting new era for both Southeast Asian music icons. The collaboration was made possible thanks to a 13-city ASEAN concert in Japan, where Bautista and Raisa shared the stage as fellow performers.   Bautista recalls, “We got along very well as friends and as performers during that time. It became a natural idea for us to want to collaborate. We talked about the songs we both loved, and ‘Rainbow’ stood out for both of us. That’s when everything started to fall into place. It wasn’t just the melody, it's message of hope, comfort, and being there for someone through life’s storms really resonated with both of us.”   “ Christian is already so big in Indonesia—I grew up listening to him, ” Raisa adds. “ He's such a great balladeer and vocalist. We finally got to spend time together on that Japan tour. What I admire most is his musicality and his beautiful personality. When the idea to collaborate came up, of course, I said yes. ”   Christian Bautista has long held a strong presence in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Indonesia, where his music, performances, and sincere artistry have earned him a devoted following. Known for his romantic ballads and warm stage presence, he became a household name through his hit songs and regional television appearances. This deep connection with audiences in both countries makes his duet with Raisa not only meaningful but a natural and highly anticipated musical moment in the region.   “This has been a long-awaited collaboration for many of our fans across the region,” shares Bautista. “We’ve both heard from listeners in the Philippines and Indonesia who’ve been hoping for this moment, so it feels incredibly special—not just for us, but for everyone who’s supported our music. We're truly grateful to Sony Music for helping bring it to life.”   “The Philippines is a huge market with so many great singers and amazing music, ” Raisa notes. “ I’ve never tapped into that market before, and I want to expand my reach. I hope the Filipino audience will welcome me. ”   Raisa is a multi-awarded Indonesian singer-songwriter, celebrated for her soulful voice, heartfelt ballads, and elegant artistry that have made her a standout in the region’s music scene. Known for her ability to blend emotional depth with modern pop sensibilities, she has released numerous chart-topping singles and critically acclaimed albums. With millions of loyal listeners across Southeast Asia and collaborations with some of the region’s top talents, Raisa continues to shape the sound of contemporary Indonesian pop and remains one of its most influential and admired voices.   Their musical chemistry is evident in the track, with each of their distinct yet complementary vocals shining both individually and in harmony.   “ With a timeless song like this, you really shouldn't do too much, ” Raisa explains. “ We kept the arrangement close to the original but adjusted it to fit a male-female duet—some key changes, harmonies, and little details. Every step of the way, we made sure we honored the song. It's such a huge song from the Philippines—we just wanted to do it justice. ”   “We discovered how well our vocal styles complemented each other when we performed together,” Bautista shares. “We both give our all in every performance, but we also know when to step back and let the other shine. That balance was key in making this rendition emotionally captivating and honest.”   Paying homage to the original arrangement while infusing it with a contemporary, cross-cultural resonance was no small feat. With a collaborative team of both Filipino and Indonesian producers and arrangers, each attuned to the musical sensibilities of their cultures, the duet was crafted to resonate widely without losing its emotional core.   “ The biggest challenge was time, ” Raisa admits. “ We recorded together but couldn’t finish at the same time due to our tight schedules, so we had to complete parts separately. That’s hard for a duet—you have to match details like vibrato, phrasing… But in the end, we blended well, and I really think we gave the song something fresh while still paying homage to the original. And honestly, I think Filipino and Indonesian listeners have a lot in common—we both love ballads, romantic themes, 90s R&B, and a touch of nostalgia, ” Raisa adds. “ There’s a natural connection between our audiences. ”   The multi-awarded Filipino pop icon explains, “Staying true to the spirit of the original while making it meaningful for today’s listeners was something we truly cared about,” shares Bautista. “We each brought our reflections into the song, hoping it would resonate in a deeper, more intimate way—wherever in the world it’s heard.”   As for what’s next? The fans have every reason to be excited.   “We’re currently planning joint performances and a music video,” Bautista teases. “This isn’t the end: it’s a continuation of a musical bridge between the Philippines and Indonesia. We hope to open more doors for future collaborations.”   “ I certainly hope so, ” says Raisa. “ This song will truly come to life when performed in person. It’s just another reason for me to visit the Philippines—or for Christian to come back to Indonesia! When you collaborate with a dear friend, it’s always more fun to do things together. It makes the experience that much more soulful. ”   “ Rainbow ” by Christian Bautista featuring Raisa is now available on all major streaming platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Qatar, August 18, 2025   — Qatar Team CrewQ has made a powerful mark on the global dance stage after a remarkable performance at the UDO World Championships 2025, securing an impressive total of five trophies and 19 medals. The week-long competition, known for its high level of intensity and talent, showcased the exceptional artistry, discipline, and teamwork of the young dancers representing Qatar. Strong Performances in Solo Categories The team’s solo performers brought pride to the nation with outstanding results across multiple age brackets: U10B : Sasha claimed 4th place, demonstrating precision and grace beyond her years. U12N : Machayla earned 3rd place, a reflection of her dedication and growing stage presence. U14N : Janella secured 2nd place, impressing judges with her strength, artistry, and passion. Team Finals Spotlight In the team divisions, Qatar’s crews showcased creativity, synchronization, and unwavering determination: U10N Lil CrewQ  placed 6th, displaying unity and innovative choreography. U12N CrewQ Jr  finished in 7th place, highlighting the group’s energy and commitment. With podium finishes and commendable placements across the board — 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th, and 7th — Qatar Team CrewQ has once again proven its competitive edge at an international level. A Testament to Dedication and Passion “This week has been an emotional rollercoaster for all of us,” said a spokesperson for Qatar Team CrewQ. “The hard work and determination displayed by our dancers have truly paid off, and we are incredibly proud of each and every one of them. These achievements are not just trophies and medals; they represent the dedication and passion of our team.” Looking Ahead Building on this international success, Qatar Team CrewQ is determined to continue nurturing the country’s young talent and inspiring the next generation of dancers. With their spirit of camaraderie and resilience, the team stands as a proud representative of Qatar on the world stage.

As of August 13, 2025, Roblox—a game hugely popular with children—has been blocked in Qatar over child safety concerns. Parents should be aware that Roblox has been used to host dangerous cult-like games hidden within its platform, posing serious risks to young players. What Is "764"? “ 764 ” is a decentralized, extremist sextortion network—often classified by law enforcement as a terror-level threat —that targets children and vulnerable teens online. Founded in 2021 by Bradley Chance Cadenhead in Stephenville, Texas (its name derived from the local ZIP code), the group has grown rapidly, using neo‑Nazi and satanic ideology to manipulate youth into performing and sharing violent, sexual, and self‑harm acts. How It Works Recruitment via gaming and social platforms : Members groom children typically aged 8 to 17 , especially those wrestling with mental health issues or social isolation, through platforms like Discord, Roblox, Minecraft, Telegram , and others. Gradual coercion and degradation : Once contact is established, victims are convinced to produce content involving self-harm, animal cruelty, or sexual acts . Some are forced to carve symbols or names of their abusers into their bodies—known as “cutsigns”—which members treat as “trophies” to gain status within the network. Escalating violence for entertainment and extortion : “Watch parties” are held where victims’ self-harm or abuse is livestreamed to satisfy group members. Such graphic materials are often used to blackmail victims into submitting further degrading content. Scale of Danger The FBI currently has over 250 open investigations tied to the 764 network—every one of its 55 U.S. field offices is involved. Some victims have been as young as nine years old , with estimated thousands affected globally . In a harrowing account, a former FBI agent was driven into early therapy after investigating a case where a 13‑year‑old from Tacoma was coerced into suicide by 764 members. Arrests & Legal Action Leaders arrested and charged : Prasan “Trippy” Nepal (20) arrested in North Carolina (April 22, 2025) Leonidas “War” Varagiannis (21) arrested in Greece (April 28, 2025), now facing extradition Convictions and sentences : Richard Anthony Reyna “Rabid” Densmore received 30 years in prison in November 2024 for exploiting children as part of 764’s sextortion network. Other convictions include individuals sentenced for producing child sexual abuse material and related crimes spanning multiple countries. Why Parents Must Take This Seriously It's more than just online bullying : This network is terror-level in its nature—its stated goal: to “destroy civilized society” by targeting its most vulnerable members. It evolves quickly and operates in secrecy : The group is leaderless , decentralized, and uses encrypted platforms—making it difficult for law enforcement to dismantle. Effectively preys on loneliness and mental health struggles : Teens with depression, belonging to marginalized groups, or facing social isolation are particularly at risk . What Parents Should Do Talk openly with children about online safety—emphasize that being groomed or manipulated is never their fault . Monitor behaviors and online habits : Watch for signs of distress, secrecy, or self-harm. Limit access to risky platforms and use parental controls, especially on apps like Discord or Roblox. Encourage healthy social contacts and professional mental health support if needed. Report concerning interactions immediately to platform moderators or law enforcement. The “764” network is not a hoax or urban legend. It’s a real, active predator network , with hundreds of FBI cases, convictions, and countless vulnerable children affected . Parents must stay alert, informed, and vigilant in protecting their children from these insidious digital threats.

His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Doha 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games Bid, visited the Visit Qatar activation at the Qatar Goodwood Festival presented by Visit Qatar, accompanied by His Excellency Mr.  Saad Bin Ali AlKharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, and Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar. The activation offered an elevated platform that showcased Qatar’s rich heritage alongside its passion for equestrian excellence. The activation featured thoughtfully curated elements—including live illustrated portraits celebrating race day elegance, a bespoke leather stamping station for personalised keepsakes, and a heritage corner where visitors drew traditional Arabic proverbs from a pearl-diving basket, offering an authentic connection to Qatari storytelling.

A stellar line-up of 7 elite milers came together for one of the standout races of the festival, the Group 1 Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes. The race that took place on the Goodwood Racecourse brought together a mix of rising three-year-old talents and seasoned Group 1 winners, making it one of the most anticipated contests of the festival, with Qirat claiming victory, ahead of Rosallion in second and Henri Matisse in third. The trophy was presented by HE President of Qatar Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Doha 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games Bid Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al-Thani and HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar. Momentum continues to build at the Qatar Goodwood Festival, with several major races still on the card. Fans can look forward to top-level action from the Qatar Nassau Stakes and the King George Qatar Stakes, before the curtain falls with the Qatar Lillie Langtry Stakes on the final day. Through its exclusive naming and ownership rights, Visit Qatar proudly presents this prestigious event as part of its ongoing commitment to world-class equestrian sport and to reinforcing Qatar’s position on the global tourism stage.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development and Family and Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Qatar Tourism through its promotional arm Visit Qatar is partnering with its stakeholders to launch the nation’s first-ever Purple Saturday initiative in the State of Qatar. This high-impact initiative is dedicated to empowering people with special needs in society and will be held annually on the last Saturday of July.  The initiative, launched by the Authority of People with Disabilities (APD) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2021, is celebrated on the last Saturday of July every year. The initiative has now been extended to cover the entire GCC region as a show of solidarity and unity. Purple Saturday in Qatar unites stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to champion accessibility, raise awareness, and fostergreater community participation. As part of this initiative, Qatar Tourism through its promotional arm Visit Qatar will mark Purple Saturday at the Qatar Toy Festival with a dedicated celebration. People with special needs will enjoy free access to the festival throughout its duration. To support this initiative, 16 different Qatar Tourism stakeholders which include retail stores and hotels are offering exclusive discounts and adapted services. Qatar Tourism invites the public to visit the Ministry of Social Development and Family official website to learn more about how to download the "Purple Saturday" digital card, which will be valid for use at participating stores and hotels from July 26 to August 1, 2025. Purple Saturday is a key moment in a growing movement towards greater inclusivity, driven by multi-sector collaboration and a shared vision of accessibility. To access offers and discounts, please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/campaigns/purple-saturday

Visit Qatar participates as the official title sponsor of Qatar Goodwood Festival presented by Visit Qatar 2025, taking place from July 29 th  to August 2 nd  in West Sussex, United Kingdom. The event is a highlight of the British horseracing calendar and reflects Qatar's continued interest in being part of the international sporting calendar, as well as its long-standing relationship with Goodwood Racecourse. The festival is known for being a prestigious event that attracts world-class horses and jockeys, as well as equestrian and fashion enthusiasts from around the world. An official delegation from Visit Qatar is expected to attend, along with representatives from the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club and key figures from the UK's tourism and horse racing industries. This year's event will also feature Qatari thoroughbreds, reflecting Qatar's rich equestrian heritage. The 2025 edition will feature 13 group races, including three Group-1 events, along with curated daily experiences for guests. Visit Qatar has exclusive sponsorship of Group 1 and Group 2 races, including the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup Stakes (July 29), the Qatar International Stakes and the Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes (July 30), the Qatar Nassau Stakes, the King George Qatar Stakes (August 1), and the Qatar Lillie Langtry Stakes (August 2). Key areas across the festival, including the Richmond and Lennox enclosures, will be adorned with Visit Qatar branding, reinforcing the brand's presence throughout the event. Highlights of the sponsorship include a dedicated hospitality pavilion that showcases authentic Qatari culture and serves as a platform to connect with international partners and tourism industry players. Visit Qatar's VIP Pavilion will host business partners, embassy representatives, Racing and Equestrian Club guests, as well as UK stakeholders and invited influencers. The sponsorship aligns with Visit Qatar's broader strategy to raise brand visibility in key international markets, strengthen ties with global tourism and sports stakeholders, and position Qatar as a leading destination for prestigious events.

Doha, Qatar, 19 Jul 2025  – Qabayan Radio 94.3 FM, the pioneering Filipino radio station in Qatar, has officially wrapped up the first batch of its much-anticipated Broadcast Academy 2025. The closing ceremony, held on 19 July 2025 at the Qabayan Radio Station, marked the culmination of a transformative training experience for aspiring Filipino radio personalities. From L-R: Charles Brian Basco, Timothy Rivera, and Martin Fazon. Other trainees who also successfully completed the crash course but are not in the photo due to being on vacation are Cadji Marciano Magadia and Amir Dayto. The Broadcast Academy is part of Qabayan Radio’s ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, aimed at empowering the Filipino community by developing homegrown radio talents and fostering personal and professional growth. With a mission to discover fresh voices from various sectors in Qatar, the initiative continues to serve as a gateway for many overseas Filipinos who dream of stepping into the world of broadcasting. The 2025 Batch 1 of the Qabayan Broadcast Academy was launched in collaboration with Mirchi One 89.6 FM, a prominent name in Qatar’s multicultural broadcasting landscape. The partnership further enriched the program, bringing a wider range of expertise and industry insights to participants. Spanning from April to June 2025, the intensive crash course provided hands-on training and classroom instruction on several core aspects of broadcasting. The curriculum covered a diverse set of topics, including Introduction to Journalism , Broadcast Ethics , Introduction to Radio Broadcasting , Effective Radio Broadcasting (Soft & Hard Skills) , Radio Programming , News Reporting , Radio Interviews , On-Cam Presenting , Radio Automation Software , Mock-up Radio Broadcasts , and On-board Practicum . The course combined theoretical learning with real-world experience, allowing participants to apply their training in a live radio setting. Completers of Broadcast Academy 2025 Batch 1 crash course pose for a photo with Qabayan’s Managing Director (5th from left), their trainer Engr. Ressie Fos (6th from left), and fellow Qabayan Radio Jocks. During the closing ceremony, Mr. Salim Kainikkara , Managing Director of Qabayan Radio, addressed the completers with an inspiring message. He emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and reiterated Qabayan Radio’s commitment to providing meaningful programs and opportunities that extend beyond entertainment.“This academy is our way of returning the favor to the Filipino community. We want to empower our kababayans through training that can open up new doors for them—not just on-air, but in life,” Kainikkara said. He further stated that Qabayan Radio is open to offering actual job opportunities to the graduates, depending on available slots and necessary adjustments to the station’s programming schedule. Main mentor and Broadcast Academy lead trainer, Engr. Ressie Fos , delivered a heartfelt message to the batch. A seasoned media educator and the driving force behind the RJ trainees’ development, Engr. Fos reminded the new radio jocks of the real essence of broadcasting. “Being a radio jock is not just about playing songs or speaking into the mic. It’s about responsibility, honesty, and the power to influence and inspire,” Fos said. “In your hands is a platform that can change lives. Use it wisely.” Qabayan Radio Jocks—Cody, Carl McFly, Mille G, Icee, and Charles—who supervised the trainees during their on-air broadcast practicum, also shared their insights and feedback during the closing ceremony. They offered constructive observations aimed at helping the trainees grow further in their broadcasting journey. A common piece of advice echoed by the RJs was the importance of discovering and developing one’s unique radio personality and on-air identity. Completers of Batch 1 received certificates of completion and were given recognition for their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm throughout the training. Special awards were also handed out to outstanding trainees in areas such as Rising Broadcaster , Most Dedicated RJ-Trainee , Most Jolly RJ-Trainee , Best On-Air Voice , Most Engaging RJ-Trainee , Best in Playlisting & Programming , and Broadcaster of the Batch awards. Qabayan Radio announced that preparations are already underway for Batch 2 of the Broadcast Academy , with official details to be revealed soon. Aspiring broadcasters are encouraged to follow Qabayan Radio’s social media platforms and stay tuned for updates. As the only Filipino radio station in the State of Qatar, Qabayan Radio continues to raise the bar—not only in entertainment and news delivery—but also in community involvement, youth empowerment, and talent development. The successful conclusion of the Broadcast Academy 2025 Batch 1 is a clear testament to its enduring mission: to inform, inspire, and uplift the Filipino diaspora through the power of radio.

Doha, Qatar – July 19, 2025  — Qabayan Radio 94.3 FM, the pioneering Filipino radio station in Qatar, has officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICpEP) Qatar Chapter, marking the start of a meaningful collaboration aimed at serving the Filipino community. The agreement was formalized on Saturday, July 19, 2025, with Qabayan Radio Station Manager Glend Tesio, also known as RJ Cody, and ICpEP Qatar President Engr. Lenelio O. Morga leading the signing ceremony. The MoU outlines the mutual commitment of both organizations to develop and deliver programs that not only inform and empower the Filipino audience in Qatar but also provide valuable opportunities for members of both groups. This partnership is expected to open doors for collaborative initiatives in the fields of computer technology, public service, and community engagement, benefiting the growing number of Filipinos working and residing in the country.

Qatar Tourism has revealed a distinguished ten-member jury panel of local and international experts for its third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. These eagerly awaited awards honour organisations and individuals known for consistently delivering exceptional tourism experiences in Qatar. The Qatar Tourism Awards is an initiative by Qatar Tourism, developed in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), aimed at recognising individuals and businesses across the tourism and hospitality sector in Qatar for their remarkable contributions to service excellence. The panel is tasked with carefully evaluating tourism businesses that demonstrate excellence across seven primary categories: Service Excellence, Gastronomic Experiences, Iconic Attractions and Activities, World-Class Events, Digital Footprint, Smart and Sustainable Tourism, and Community Leadership. These categories, along with 37 sub-categories, reflect key dimensions of both the visitor and resident experience. The jury includes the following distinguished members: HE Hamad Al Mulla, Vice-Chairman of the Education, Culture, Sport and Information Committee of the Shura Council & the Chairman of the External Affairs, Political and National Security Committee of the Arab Parliament; Mr. Andrew Stokes, OBE – Visit England Director; Aurélie Bouti, Travel Content Creator; Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director SME Development at Qatar Development Bank; Gregor Rankin,  Food and Travel Magazine, Publisher & CEO; Samer Al-Kharashi, Director- Regional Office for the Middle East UN Tourism; Marcel Leijzer, Deputy Director, Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department - UN Tourism; Dr. Abdulla Al-Mehshadi Ph.D. Eng., CEO of Al Wa’ab City; Ramzan Al Naimi, Innovation Expert and Prof. Rana Al Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Qatar University. Meet the Judges: Qatar Tourism Awards Panel Biographies H.E. Hamad Al Mulla is a seasoned tourism and hospitality executive with a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Marriott, Doha Club, and Katara Hospitality. He currently serves in senior parliamentary positions, including Vice-Chairman of the Shura Council’s Education, Culture, Sport and Information Committee, and Chairman of the Arab Parliament’s External Affairs Committee. Samer Al-Kharashi , appointed UN Tourism Regional Director for the Middle East in 2024, brings over two decades of diplomatic experience to the role. A seasoned Saudi diplomat, he now leads efforts to advance sustainable tourism and regional competitiveness across the Middle East. Marcel Leijzer joined UN Tourism in 2006, where he is Deputy Director, Technical Cooperation and Silk Road Department - UN Tourism. His main task is to coordinate the formulation and implementation of tourism projects related to strategy development, marketing, poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and capacity building.  Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer serves as Executive Director of SME Development at Qatar Development Bank, leading national strategies that empower local businesses in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. With advanced degrees from SBS and HEC Paris, he also contributes to multiple boards, championing sustainable economic growth. Dr. Abdulla Hassa Al-Mehshadi Ph.D., Eng is the CEO of Al Wa'ab City and has held several other leadership positions. He previously served as CEO of Msheireb Properties, Maintenance Manager of Qatar Fertilizer Company (QAFCO), Consultant to the Minster of Environment, Managing Director of Private Engineering Office.  Andrew Stokes , OBE, is the Director of Visit England and architect of the £40m Discover England Fund, driving tourism innovation and SME market access through platforms like TXGB. He has led national initiatives including DMO accreditation and business recovery programmes, earning an OBE in 2023 for services to tourism. Ramzan Rashid Al Naimi , Innovation Expert and Entrepreneur.  A certified practitioner (Level 1) in Innovation Management. With more than 23 years of experience in the media, marketing and branding industry, he founded two companies specialized in the field of design, media production, and innovation. Prof. Rana Sobh is a Professor of Marketing and Dean of The College of Business and Economics at Qatar University. Throughout her career, she has contributed to several national and international projects and served on many local and international organizations’ advisory boards.  Aurélie Bouti is a globally recognised French travel content creator, known for her immersive storytelling and creative campaigns with top tourism boards. With over 5 million followers, she has been ranked France’s number one travel influencer since 2023 and the world’s best in 2025. Gregor Rankin is the award-winning Publisher and CEO of Food and Travel magazine, globally recognised as the leading title in gastronomic travel. With a track record of successful media launches, he co-founded the magazine and its international editions, events, and acclaimed Reader Awards. The carefully selected panel of judges will evaluate submissions expected to surpass last year’s total of over 800 entries from across the sector. Winners will receive extensive promotion locally, regionally, and internationally to enhance their visibility. The winners of the third edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards will be revealed during a formal ceremony taking place in November 2025. The Qatar Tourism Awards is open to all businesses and individuals in the tourism sector. The Awards is a benchmark for excellence, highlighting the nation’s top tourism offerings, services and innovations and outstanding achievers. It is a chance to help set the standard for the tourism industry and recognise those who elevate Qatar’s tourism reputation on the global stage. Winning the prestigious Qatar Tourism Awards is a demonstration of excellence that strengthens brand equity, shapes businesses or careers and to gain nationally and internationally recognition.   Submissions are a simple process where the applicants need to answer 5 unique questions and attach supporting documents. The application portal launched on May 19, and the deadline for applications submission is August 7 th , 2025. For application guidelines and more information, please visit https://www.qatartourism.com/en/service-excellence/qatar-tourism-awards or email QTAwards@visitqatar.qa