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- Visit Qatar Announces Inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Doha Triathlon to Take Place at Old Doha Port in 2027
Visit Qatar has announced that the inaugural edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Doha triathlon will take place from March 18 to 20, 2027 at Old Doha Port, marking another milestone in Qatar’s growing international sports events calendar and further reinforcing the country’s position as a leading destination for sports tourism. Organised in collaboration with The IRONMAN Group, the world’s leading organiser of endurance events, the event will bring together athletes and regional sporting communities for a world-class racing experience set against the backdrop of Doha’s waterfront. The main race, scheduled for March 20, 2027, will feature the globally recognised IRONMAN 70.3 format, comprising a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km cycling course, and a 21.1 km run. The event programme will also include the IRONKIDS race on March 19, offering younger participants the opportunity to take part in the excitement of race weekend. The event is expected to attract thousands of athletes and visitors, further strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading destination for major international sporting events while contributing to the country’s growing visitor economy. Alongside the races, visitors will be able to enjoy a lively event atmosphere featuring dedicated fan zones, the interactive IRONMAN Village, and a range of community and entertainment experiences throughout the event weekend. Further details regarding registration, spectator experiences, and dedicated travel packages for athletes and their families will be announced in the coming weeks through Visit Qatar’s official channels. By hosting IRONMAN 70.3 Doha triathlon at Old Doha Port, Visit Qatar continues to expand its portfolio of international sporting events while showcasing the country’s advanced infrastructure, hospitality offering, and ability to deliver large-scale events across a variety of sectors.
- New and Enhanced “Hukoomi” Platform Officially Launches
The enhanced edition of Hukoomi reflects the community’s aspirations for advancing government services "Life Moments”: an innovative concept that reimagines government services around people and their needs Hukoomi is the first outcome of the "Digital Factory" initiative and serves as its digital front end A new achievement that embodies the unified digital government model, driven by collaboration and integration across government entities and institutions Doha, Qatar – 16 June 2026: As part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to advance digital transformation and achieve the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, the new edition of the “Hukoomi” platform was officially launched today. The platform is the first outcome of the “Digital Factory” initiative launched by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) to serve as an engine for government services and digital innovation in the country, through the integration of technology, data, and design within a unified platform that enhances the use of advanced digital infrastructure and enables integration between entities and unified governance across various government entities. The enhanced edition of Hukoomi is built around an innovative “Life Moments” concept, enabling users to easily access and manage government services associated with key moments in their lives through a more connected experience that is better aligned with their needs and aspirations. On this occasion, His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, said: "The launch of the new Hukoomi, as an advanced digital interface for the Digital Factory initiative, reflects the State of Qatar's firm commitment to accelerating comprehensive digital transformation and achieving the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030, within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030. Through this platform, we aim to enhance the digital government services experience by delivering effective, accessible services that are centered on people and responsive to their needs and aspirations, reflecting our commitment to continuous improvement and to enhancing quality of life. We are also working to enable all members of society and its institutions to benefit from these services in a modern, more efficient way, thereby strengthening Qatar’s competitiveness and contributing to its continued development and prosperity. His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology His Excellency added:“The Digital Factory is a new model for government work based on collaboration and agility, placing the user at the center of every service. What we have achieved goes beyond infrastructure to create an integrated operating framework that empowers ministries and government entities to innovate and deliver unified, high-quality services that meet the needs of citizens and residents. It also contributes to achieving of the Seventh National Outcome of the Third National Development Strategy (2024–2030) by enhancing the integration, efficiency, and accessibility of digital government services, while reinforcing key principles, including more integrated government services, higher levels of trust, and greater readiness for the future.” The enhanced edition of Hukoomi currently features six key Life Moments: getting married, winter camping, owning a falcon, owning a boat, benefiting from social welfare, and managing my retirement. Each Life Moment brings together a range of integrated digital services, with additional Life Moments, digital services, and business-related services to be introduced progressively in future releases of the platform, reflecting the evolving needs and aspirations of society. Ms. Mashael Ali Al-Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Government Affairs at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, stated: "The enhanced edition of Hukoomi is an advanced milestone in the evolution of digital government services in the State of Qatar. The platform has evolved from an informational portal that introduces government services into an integrated interactive platform that enables users to access and complete government services directly through the Hukoomi website, delivering a more seamless, connected, and user-centric experience.” Ms. Mashael Ali Al Hammadi - Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Government Affairs She added: “Among the technical enhancements introduced through the new Hukoomi platform is the Single Sign-On feature, which enables users to access their personal profile, track their activities and government transactions, request support around the clock, and benefit from intelligent interaction through advanced search capabilities and a virtual assistant. The launch of Hukoomi through the Life Moments concept reflects a new approach to the design and delivery of digital government services, enabling services to be delivered in a more connected and seamless manner. The platform has been designed to support continuous development and enhancement, allowing for the introduction of new Life Moments and digital services in the future. We also look forward to continued community engagement through feedback and suggestions, which will contribute to the ongoing development of services and digital capabilities.” Advanced Technologies for a Seamless Experience Hukoomi features advanced digital capabilities that enhance the user experience and make it more seamless and accessible. The platform provides a unified gateway that enables users to access a wide range of digital government services with ease and efficiency. It allows users to view their personal profile, track their activities and government transactions, request support around the clock, and access their saved documents, in addition to monitoring and managing their registered assets, including boats, falcons, and other assets. Hukoomi also supports intelligent interaction through advanced search capabilities and a virtual assistant, while offering a flexible user experience that includes Single Sign-On, multilingual support, and multiple display options, all within a secure and trusted digital environment that contributes to enhancing the quality of digital government services in the State of Qatar. From Qatar's Roots to a Limitless Digital Horizon Hukoomi launches with a contemporary visual identity that reflects Qatar’s culture and ambitious vision, embodying strong connections, sustainable growth, and a harmonious blend of rich heritage and renewed innovation. The identity draws its inspiration from the historical and cultural roots of the State of Qatar, reflecting the authenticity of the national identity and its aspirations for the future. The platform’s color palette combines shades of purple inspired by Bin Ghanam Island, the maroon color representing the Qatari flag, and tones derived from the sands of the Qatari desert, creating a visual identity inspired by both the sea and the land while reflecting Qatari culture and the spirit of collaboration and innovation. Users can access the platform through the website hukoomi.gov.qa and log in using the National Authentication System “Tawtheeq”.
- Address Gateway Celebrates 10 Years of Success with Mega Promotion 2026
Customers Get a Chance to Win a Brand-New Chery Arrizo 5 as Part of the Company's 10th Anniversary Celebrations Doha, Qatar – 15 June 2026 - Marking a decade of serving entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors in Qatar, Address Gateway Business Services has announced the launch of its Mega Promotion 2026, a special campaign celebrating the company's 10th Anniversary. The promotion offers customers the opportunity to win a brand-new Chery Arrizo 5, while benefiting from the company's comprehensive business setup and PRO services. Running from 20 June to 20 September 2026, the campaign will award one raffle coupon for every QAR 1,000 spent on eligible services. The grand prize winner will be chosen through an official raffle draw scheduled for September 22, 2026, conducted under the supervision and in the presence of representatives from the Qatar Ministry of Commerce and Industry, ensuring complete transparency and fairness." Mr. Shamseer Hamza, Founder & Managing Director of Address Gateway Business Services Speaking during the launch, Mr. Shamseer Hamza, Founder & Managing Director of Address Gateway Business Services, said the campaign reflects the company's gratitude to its customers and partners who have contributed to its journey over the past decade. "This year marks an important milestone for Address Gateway as we celebrate ten successful years in Qatar. Our growth has been built on the trust and support of our clients, partners, and team members. Mega Promotion 2026 is our way of thanking them and sharing this celebration with the community that has been part of our journey." He further added: "Over the last ten years, we have helped thousands of entrepreneurs and companies establish and grow their businesses in Qatar. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to, transparent, and efficient business solutions that contribute to Qatar's dynamic business environment." Since its establishment, Address Gateway Business Services has become a trusted partner for company formation, PRO services, document processing, licensing support, and business consultancy services, assisting businesses of all sizes to navigate Qatar's regulatory landscape. The 10th Anniversary Mega Promotion reflects the company's continued commitment to rewarding customer loyalty while supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. As Address Gateway enters its second decade, the company looks forward to expanding its services, strengthening client relationships, and contributing to Qatar's vision for economic growth and business excellence.
- Qatar Tourism Launches New Hospitality Training Programme with Forbes Travel Guide
Qatar Tourism has delivered the inaugural edition of a new hospitality leadership training programme in partnership with Forbes Travel Guide, which brought together hotel leaders and hospitality professionals from across Qatar as part of ongoing efforts to further enhance service excellence and strengthen the destination’s hospitality offering. Held from June 8 to 11 at Qatar Tourism’s headquarters in Doha, participants engaged in immersive workshops based on Forbes Travel Guide’s globally recognised methodology, which encourages hospitality professionals to view every interaction through the eyes of the guest. The programme explored the principles that define exceptional luxury hospitality, with a focus on emotional connection, personalisation, consistency, and attention to detail. Participants also examined the defining characteristics of effective luxury leadership and the critical role leaders play in shaping team performance, organisational culture, and service delivery standards. Through practical tools, real-world applications, and international best practices, attendees gained valuable insights into fostering accountability, developing high-performing teams, and creating environments where exceptional service can be consistently delivered and sustained. The programme forms part of a broader series of quarterly training sessions that will continue throughout 2026, supporting the ongoing development of hospitality talent across Qatar and reinforcing a culture of continuous improvement throughout the sector. Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said: “At Qatar Tourism, we remain committed to advancing service excellence through strategic international collaborations that support long-term sector development and contribute to enhancing visitor experiences. Our continued partnership with Forbes Travel Guide reflects our focus on equipping hospitality professionals across Qatar with globally recognised expertise and operational standards that further strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading luxury tourism destination.” Megan Torrance, Senior Vice President, Learning & Development said, “Our partnership with Qatar Tourism reflects a shared commitment to elevating service excellence through globally recognized standards and practical, performance-driven training. By equipping hospitality leaders with the tools to lead with intention, consistency, and emotional intelligence, we are helping to shape a culture where exceptional guest experiences can thrive across Qatar’s hospitality sector.” The expanded programme builds on the strategic partnership signed between Qatar Tourism and Forbes Travel Guide at the World Travel Market London 2025, which covers hotel assessments, standards alignment, international marketing collaboration, and long-term hospitality development initiatives designed to further strengthen Qatar’s evolving tourism ecosystem.
- Visit Qatar Concludes Participation at IMEX Frankfurt 2026
Visit Qatar has concluded its participation at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, one of the world’s leading trade exhibitions for the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry. The participation included a series of strategic meetings with prominent international event organisers and industry decision-makers, aimed at reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading destination for global business events. During the exhibition, Visit Qatar highlighted the country’s advanced tourism and events infrastructure, including more than 41,000 hotel rooms and over 15 major event venues, most notably the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) and the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). The destination also showcased its recent achievements in the business events sector, having secured several international bids in 2025 to host major conferences and events scheduled for 2026 and 2027, reflecting growing international confidence in Qatar’s organisational and logistical capabilities. Qatar is set to host a series of major international conferences and events in the coming years, including, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Annual Meeting 2026, the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, Mobile World Congress 2026, Web Summit Qatar 2027, and the INTERPOL General Assembly 2027. These international events complement Qatar’s year-round calendar of major exhibitions and conferences, including the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition, the International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference (DIMDEX), the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), the Doha Forum, the Qatar Economic Forum, Project Qatar, and Cityscape Qatar. Through its participation at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, Visit Qatar continues to strengthen strategic global partnerships and reinforce Qatar’s position as a trusted destination for business events, conferences and exhibitions, while supporting the sustainable growth of the tourism sector and the national economy.
- Shell Qatar and Ministry of Interior Organize Awareness Event on the Occasion of “International Workers’ Day 2026”
12 May 2026 - Doha: The Shell Qatar, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, represented by the North Security Department, organized an awareness event for workers as part of the International Workers’ Day 2026 celebrations recently. The event witnessed participation of over 470 workers representing 14 largest companies working in the Northern region of Qatar. Officers from the Ministry of Interior and Officials from Shell Qatar with workers from companies The event held in Al Khor, with the participation of various specialized departments from the Ministry of Interior and private sector as well, presented lectures on pedestrian traffic safety, drug prevention, importance of enhancing the mental and psychological well-being of workers and cultural integration through introducing Qatari customs and traditions to the workers. In addition to this, the Human Rights Department of the Ministry did a presentation on the rights and responsibilities of the workers and how to enroot the principles of human rights among them. The program also included a cultural and safety and security awareness competition that saw high participation from participants, concluding with an awards ceremony to honor the winners. "Organizing this event reflects the integration between security and community aspects. It contributes to enhancing worker awareness, developing a sense of security, and preventing crime." said Colonel Ahmed Saad Al-Muhannadi from the North Security Department. On behalf of Shell Qatar, Eng. Hussain Al-Hajji, General Manager of Public Relations said that the “BEDAR” community awareness events reflect Shell Qatar 's commitment to empowering communities and raising worker awareness. Participation in such initiatives improves quality of life of the workers and supports a more harmonious and sustainable work environment." The organizers emphasized that this event embodies the spirit of community partnership and institutional integration. It serves to promote health, safety, and social awareness. The "BEDAR" initiative is one of the key community programs led by Shell Qatar in collaboration with Ministry of Interior and aims at enhancing the awareness of the workers and integrating them into national and community events, contributing to the improvement of their quality of life and supporting social sustainability in the State of Qatar.
- Visit Qatar and Pierre Hermé unveil limited-edition macaron collaboration inspired by milk tea “Karak” and Dates
Visit Qatar, in collaboration with Paris Saint-Germain, has launched a limited-edition macaron collection in partnership with renowned French pastry chef Pierre Hermé, blending Parisian craftsmanship with Qatari culinary heritage. The collaboration forms part of a wider, multi-layered campaign centred around Paris Saint-Germain’s match against Lorient on May 2 at Parc des Princes. The campaign combines prominent in-stadium visibility, including Visit Qatar’s branding on the team’s jersey, with a targeted activation through Pierre Hermé giveaways at the PSG Store in Paris, extending engagement with fans beyond the pitch. As part of this initiative, Pierre Hermé has created an exclusive macaron flavour inspired by Qatari milk tea locally known as Karak and dates, reinterpreting iconic local tastes through a refined French lens. The collaboration underscores gastronomy as a key pillar of cultural exchange, connecting Doha and Paris through a shared appreciation for flavour, craftsmanship and hospitality. On May 2, the limited-edition collection will be distributed across select locations in both cities, including the Paris Saint-Germain Store on the Champs-Élysées in Paris and Pierre Hermé’s café at Lagoona Mall in Doha. This initiative reflects the continued strategic partnership between Visit Qatar and Paris Saint-Germain, underscoring the role of sport as a powerful platform for cultural exchange and global engagement, while spotlighting Qatar’s distinctive hospitality through creative, cross-cultural experiences.
- Cirque du Liban’s ‘Fontana Show’ in Doha Rescheduled to Start on 30 April 2026
Qatar Calendar announces that Cirque du Liban’s Fontana Show in Doha, originally scheduled to take place from 20 March to 18 April 2026 at Hyatt Plaza, has been rescheduled to begin on 30 April 2026 until 31 May 2026 at the Circus Tent, Hyatt Plaza, Qatar. Ticket holders are advised to retain their tickets and refer to the official ticketing platform for any further updates. Previously purchased tickets will be automatically transferred to the new date, with their category unchanged, and no further action is required. Tickets will be available through Platinumlist via: https://doha.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/104916/fontana-circus-qatar
- Batang PBA Middle East 2026: Biggest Filipino Youth Basketball Event in the Gulf Tips Off in Qatar
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is set to make history as it brings its official youth league to the Middle East for the first time. Batang PBA Middle East 2026 , the largest Filipino youth basketball event in the region, will tip off in Doha, Qatar from February 6 to 8 , featuring over 30 teams from 6 GCC countries —Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE, Oman, and Kuwait. This landmark 3-day tournament will turn Qatar into a hub for youth basketball, cultural pride, and elite competition, uniting Filipino youth athletes from across the Gulf on one stage. A Movement Beyond the Court More than a tournament, Batang PBA Middle East is a youth empowerment initiative. With structured coaching, professional standards, and exposure to elite basketball culture, it seeks to develop discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship among young Filipino athletes abroad. The program has received strong support from the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF) , including Secretary-General and National Teams Director Saadoun Sabah Al-Kuwari, and is endorsed by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) , the official governing body of basketball in the Philippines. Full-Court Support Across the GCC The Batang PBA Middle East event in Qatar is supported by DT ProduQtions in partnership with 1507 Media as the Official Media & Full Production Partner , Ali Koteish - Founder of Cedars Sports Academy, and Najeh Sportswear Qatar as the Official Uniform Partner. Sponsors include Broaster (League Sponsor), Deqada Restaurant (Platinum Sponsor), and Filipino Hot Pack , Chibugan , and Mireya’s Kusina (Silver Sponsors). Media partners are Marhaba Information Guide Qatar , Qatar Tribune , Qabayan Radio 94.3 , and The Filipino Correspondent News Network . Additional support is provided by Honda Qatar and National Cruise. Champions Class for Coaches & Referee Development The tournament will feature a Champions Class for Coaches , led by top Philippine basketball figures including LA Tenorio , Head Coach of Batang Gilas and Magnolia Hotshots; Johnny “The Flying A” Abarrientos , PBA legend and former MVP; and Richard Del Rosario , Deputy Head Coach of Gilas Pilipinas and Barangay Ginebra. The program also offers referees and technical officials the chance to gain high-level exposure, with tryouts taking place at ACS Doha International School from February 2 to 5 . This sporting spectacle is organized by Coach Richard Del Rosario, Coach Mikey Calungcaguin, and Sarah Calungcaguin, with Coach Mike Aliparo serving as coordinator, Nanki Angeles, and Joey Calungcaguin, a retired PBA referee, as technical head. Golden Year for the PBA Batang PBA Middle East 2026 coincides with the PBA’s 50th Anniversary , highlighting the league’s commitment to advancing Filipino youth basketball globally and nurturing the next generation of champions. Registration Now Open Youth teams, coaches, and officials across the Gulf are invited to be part of this historic event. For registration and inquiries, contact: +974 30300538 (Qatar) | +966 570080892 (Saudi Arabia)
- Collaborative Initiative in Doha Bolsters Financial and Mental Health Support for Migrants
DOHA, Jan 17, 2026 – More than 150 workers at Qatar Foundation took part in a multi-agency seminar on Saturday aimed at bolstering the financial, physical, and mental well-being of the country’s migrant workforce. The event, held at Awsaj Academy within the Qatar Foundation (QF) campus, was organized through a collaboration between Qatar’s Ministry of Labour, Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund (WSIF), Qatar Foundation, the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI). Financial Empowerment The first part of the seminar was the introduction of Financial Literacy Program for migrant workers. The initiative, spearheaded by WSIF, was launched in 19 th December 2025, kicks off the milestone of empowering migrant workers in Qatar giving more focus on the blue-collar workers by educating them on financial personal and household management. WSIF has partnered with BMKQ, BWI, and IDWF in the preparation of materials and implementation of the program, while BMKQ expanded the collaboration to Overseas Filipino Investors and Entrepreneurs Movement (OFIE-M) Qatar and Pinoy Worldwide Initiative for Investment, Savings, and Entrepreneurship (PinoyWISE) International Qatar. Dr. Raymond Carasig, chairman of the BMKQ Education and Training Committee, provided an overview of the program’s objectives. Following the introduction, Ferlita Pabalan, President of PinoyWISE, led the first instructional module, which focused on the practicalities of managing a financial life while working abroad. Safety and Mental Wellness Beyond finances, the seminar addressed critical life skills. BWI representative Bimal briefed attendees on essential occupational health and safety protocols. To address the emotional challenges of migration, the group “Gulf Good Vibes” facilitated a session on stress management, providing workers with actionable tools to maintain mental health while living far from home. Concluding at noon, the session represents the latest in a series of collaborative initiatives in Qatar aimed at strengthening support systems for the nation’s diverse international workforce.
- Visit Qatar Wins Gold and Bronze at The Drum Awards Festival 2025 for its ‘Reframing Ramadan’ Campaign
Visit Qatar has been recognised on the global stage with two wins at The Drum Awards Festival 2025, a leading international platform that celebrates excellence in marketing, media, and content. The ‘Reframing Ramadan’ campaign by Visit Qatar earned a Gold award in the Influencer & Creator Partnerships category and a Bronze award in the Travel and Tourism category, underscoring its impact in delivering culturally rooted storytelling to global audiences. Developed to showcase Qatar as a destination that embraces the holy month through authentic experiences, creative collaborations, and engaging digital content, ‘Reframing Ramadan’ demonstrates how culturally led narratives can capture interest, deepen understanding, and expand the country’s reach across new global markets. The campaign invites travellers from around the world to discover the festive spirit of Ramadan in Qatar through moments that emphasise community, reflection, and cultural connection. The Drum Awards are judged by senior marketing professionals and are widely regarded as a benchmark for best-in-class work in digital, social, and content marketing. Visit Qatar’s success reflects the strength of its strategic approach and the growing visibility of Qatar’s cultural narrative in international markets. This recognition places Visit Qatar’s work among top-performing global campaigns and further strengthens its reputation for delivering thoughtful, insight-driven content that supports the organisation’s wider tourism objectives.
- Qatar ready to host the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Championships 2025
Qatar is ready to host the World Rapid & Blitz Championships 2025 from Dec 26 to 30, this was announced by Mohammed Ahmed Al-Mudahka, President of Qatar Chess Association (QCA) and chairman of the organizing committee of the tournament on Saturday. Mr Al-Mudahka was joined by Hamad Mohammed Al-Tamimi, Executive Director of QCA and the Tournament Director at a press conference at the Rosewood Hotel in Lusail. "The FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Championships 2025 are taking place in Doha, Qatar from 25 to 30 December, bringing together the world’s elite chess talent for a thrilling end-of-year showdown," Al-Mudahka said on Saturday. "The tournament will be held at the Sports and Events Complex, Qatar University," he added. "This edition features both Open and Women’s events in Rapid and Blitz formats, with a total prize fund of over €1,000,000. We are feeling proud that Doha returns as host after nine years, underscoring Qatar’s growing stature in the chess world," Al-Mudahka said. “Doha is now the only city to host the World Rapid & Blitz Championship twice, a milestone for chess and for sports in Qatar. It reflects our deep passion for the game and our commitment to delivering excellence. We are proud to welcome the world’s greatest players back to Doha, where ambition, tradition, and the future of our sport meet,” Al-Mudahka said. World Champion Gukesh D and Magnus Carlsen will join over 360 players who have confirmed their participation in the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Chess Championship in Doha, it was announced earlier by FIDE. The event, which will take place from December 25 to 30, brings together a field featuring multiple world champions, most of the sport’s highest-rated competitors, and rising stars. A total of 233 players registered for the Blitz Open and 230 for the Rapid. After missing out on the crown in the Rapid and sharing gold in the Blitz in the previous edition in New York, Magnus Carlsen returns to the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz. He will try to unseat the 2024 World Rapid champion, Volodar Murzin, who has had strong tournament performances throughout the year. World Champion Gukesh D would also feature at the event. His participation is expected to draw a lot of interest from chess fans. In particular, his superb result in Zagreb earlier this year indicates he will be one of the favorites in Rapid. Many seasoned elite players such as 2024 World Blitz co-champion Ian Nepomniachtchi, Fabiano Caruana, Anish Giri, Wesley So, and Levon Aronian have also confirmed their participation. Challenging them will be a new generation of contenders seeking to disrupt established hierarchies: Vincent Keymer, Arjun Erigaisi, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Praggnanandhaa R, Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus, and Ediz Gürel to name just a few. FIDE Women’s Rapid and Blitz will also see the best in the world taking part. Headlined by Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun, the competition will see 130 players, including heavyweights Zhu Jiner, Lei Tingjie, Aleksandra Goryachkina, Humpy Koneru and more. Anna Muzychuk, who won both the Women’s Rapid and Blitz in Doha in 2016, will also be there, together with her sister, Mariya.












