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Mental Health & Wellness Day by the beach at Anjana Spa – Rixos Premium Qetaifan

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In recognition of World Mental Health Day, Anjana Spa at Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North invites you to a full-day wellness retreat designed to nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Join on Friday, October 10, for a rejuvenating experience focused on helping you recharge and reconnect – with yourself and your well-being.

What’s in Store:

Enjoy a curated program of wellness activities and relaxing experiences, including:

  • Morning runs to energize and awaken your senses
  • Mobility and sunset stretching sessions to enhance flexibility and relieve stress
  • Beach volleyball and water polo for fun, movement, and connection
  • Ice baths to refresh and reset both body and mind
  • Dance sessions for joyful expression through movement
  • Live DJ sets throughout the day to maintain an uplifting and positive atmosphere
  • A healthy buffet offering nutritious food and beverages to support your wellness journey

Whether you’re looking to relax, be active, or simply enjoy a peaceful escape, this day is thoughtfully designed to help you reconnect with what truly matters – your health and well-being.

Why It Matters:

World Mental Health Day is a global reminder of the importance of taking care of our mental and emotional health. Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North is proud to support this global initiative by providing a safe, welcoming space where guests can pause, reflect, and rejuvenate.


Location: Anjana Spa, Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North
Date: 10 October 2025
Time: 07:00 AM – 09:00 PM
Entry: Complimentary | Healthy Buffet Available

Take this opportunity to focus on your well-being in a luxurious, supportive setting. Guests can look forward to a full day of movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection in a serene, wellness-focused setting.

Lusail Winter Wonderland 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Qatar’s Grand Opening Carnival

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Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Lusail Winter Wonderland returns with its highly anticipated Grand Opening Carnival from October 23 to October 30, 2025, at Al Maha Island, Lusail, Qatar. This week-long celebration promises a blend of world-class entertainment, thrilling rides, and festive fun for visitors of all ages.

Event Highlights

Opening Week Schedule

  • October 23: Live performances by Daffy, Flipprachi & DJ Outlaw
  • October 24: Meet & Greet with influencer Aboflah
  • October 25: Live performance by Akhras
  • October 26–30: Daily parades, stage shows, circus acts, confetti moments, and balloon shows

The festivities run daily from 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM.

Ticket Options

Tickets are available through the 

  • Walkabout (Entry only): QAR 75
  • Entry + 2 Rides: QAR 120
  • Unlimited Rides Entry:
    • Adult: QAR 250
    • Child/Concession: QAR 198
  • VIP Unlimited Rides Entry:
    • Adult: QAR 370
    • Child/Concession: QAR 325

Special Offer: Buy any 4 Unlimited Tickets and only pay for 3.

Attractions & Experiences

Lusail Winter Wonderland boasts over 100 rides and attractions, including:

  • Ain QNB Ferris Wheel: Offers panoramic views of the island and marina.
  • Ooredoo 5G Coaster: A high-speed rollercoaster for thrill-seekers.
  • Snow Carts: A karting circuit designed for all ages.
  • Hot Air Balloons: Provides a gentle aerial experience.
  • Oryx Kids Club: A dedicated area for children’s activities.
  • Rafeeq Village: A culinary hub offering a variety of food and beverages

Location & Access

The event is located at Al Maha Island, Lusail, Qatar. It is accessible via the Lusail Marina promenade and offers stunning views of the horizon 

Accommodation & Travel Tips

  • Nearby Hotels: Consider staying at hotels in Lusail or nearby Doha for convenient access.
  • Transportation: Utilize public transport or ride-sharing services for easy access to the venue.
  • Parking: Limited parking is available; consider using public transport or ride-sharing services.
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for outdoor activities.

Stay Connected

Follow @lusail.winterwonderland on Instagram for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

Studio Ghibli Concert Coming to Qatar in 2026: A Magical Night Awaits Fans

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Fans of Studio Ghibli are in for a treat as the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra has announced an upcoming Studio Ghibli Concert in 2026. The announcement was made during the “Animated Vol. 2” concert on October 10, 2025, at U VENUE, Muraikh, Qatar. While the exact date, venue details, and ticketing information are yet to be released, excitement is already building for a night of enchanting music.

The concert promises to feature the iconic compositions of Joe Hisaishi, the legendary composer behind many of Ghibli’s timeless films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. Fans can expect a mesmerizing blend of live orchestral music with animated visuals and immersive lighting that capture the magical essence of Studio Ghibli’s storytelling.

A Celebration of Studio Ghibli:
Studio Ghibli, the famed Japanese animation studio, has been loved worldwide for its imaginative worlds, unforgettable characters, and breathtaking animation. In recent years, a major trend swept social media platforms where fans created and shared Ghibli-inspired art, celebrating the studio’s cultural impact and the emotional connection many feel with its films. From digital illustrations to cosplay and fan animations, the global Ghibli community showed just how much these stories resonate across generations.

This Qatar concert is not just a musical event—it’s a celebration of Ghibli’s art, creativity, and the universal love for its magical storytelling. Fans are encouraged to follow the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates on ticket releases and concert details.

FIFA World Cup Ticket Price Comparison: Qatar 2022 vs USA 2026

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As the world’s most-watched sporting event, the FIFA World Cup not only captivates millions with its thrilling matches but also with its evolving ticket pricing strategies. With Qatar’s successful hosting of the 2022 World Cup, fans are now turning their attention to the upcoming 2026 tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. One of the most significant changes fans are noticing is the substantial increase in ticket prices.

Ticket Price Breakdown

Factors Contributing to Price Differences

  1. Dynamic Pricing: Unlike the fixed pricing model in Qatar, the 2026 World Cup introduces dynamic pricing, where ticket prices fluctuate based on real-time demand. This system has led to significant price increases, especially for high-demand matches.
  2. Resale Market: FIFA’s official resale platform charges a 15% commission fee, further inflating ticket costs for fans looking to purchase from secondary markets.
  3. Increased Operational Costs: Hosting the tournament across three countries involves higher logistical and operational expenses, which are reflected in the ticket prices.

Regional Impact

For fans in Qatar and the broader Middle East, the price disparity is particularly concerning. The introduction of dynamic pricing and the complexity of the resale system have made attending the 2026 World Cup more challenging for average fans. Many are expressing concerns over the affordability and accessibility of the tournament.

Comparative Overview

Match TypeQatar 2022 (USD)USA 2026 (USD)
Opening Match$618–$55$2,735–$560
Group Matches$220–$11$575–$100
Round of 16$275–$19$890–$220
Quarterfinal Matches$426–$82$1,690–$410
Semifinal Match$956–$137$2,780–$455
Third-Place Match$426–$82$1,000–$165
Final Match$1,607–$206$6,370–$2,030

The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s ticket pricing strategy marks a significant departure from the model used in Qatar 2022. While the introduction of dynamic pricing aims to maximize revenue, it has also led to concerns about the tournament’s accessibility for average fans. For those in Qatar and the Middle East, attending the 2026 World Cup may require more careful planning and budgeting.

One Visa for Six Gulf Countries: What It Means for GCC residents

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Qatar is set to become even more accessible once the GCC Grand Tours Visa (unified tourist visa) is fully operational. This Schengen-style unified permit will allow international travellers to visit Qatar plus the other five Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman with just one visa. For tourists planning to include Doha in their Gulf itinerary, this is a game-changer.

What Does the GCC Unified Visa Mean for Qatar?

  • Seamless Access to Qatar + Neighbours
    Once implemented, visitors can land in Qatar and freely travel to other GCC countries without obtaining a separate visa for each country. That means less paperwork, fewer visa processes, more flexibility.
  • Boost to Qatar’s Tourism Sector
    Qatar’s tourism authorities are already preparing for this visa scheme. Unified visa access is expected to increase visitor numbers to Qatar, especially among tourists who want “multi-city” or “multi-country” trips in the Gulf.
  • Collaborative Promotion (Double Discovery etc.)
    Qatar has already engaged in joint initiatives, such as “Double the Discovery” with Saudi Arabia, promoting cross-visits. Unified visa will strengthen those efforts.

What We Know About the Rules & Timeline (for Qatar)

  • Approval Status: The unified visa has been officially approved by GCC and is now awaiting technical, legal, and digital implementation.
  • Pilot Phase: Planned for Q4 2025. Qatar is part of the pilot plan.
  • Features Under Discussion: Multi-entry visa, validity of over 30 days, online/digital application systems, possibility of choosing full multi-country access vs single country.

Challenges & Things to Watch For in Qatar

  • Eligibility: It’s not yet clear which nationalities will be able to apply from day one under the unified visa, or whether there will be restrictions.
  • First Port of Entry or Order of Travel: Will there be rules about which country you must enter first (for example entering Qatar first vs entering via another GCC country)? That could affect visa-stamp/entry procedures.
  • Document Requirements: Passport validity, travel/insurance, proof of accommodation, etc. Will Qatar require specific proofs (hotel bookings, itineraries) under the unified system?
  • Cost & Validity: The visa fee, duration (how many days), renewal or extension policies are not finalized.

Benefits for Visitors Specifically to Qatar

  • You can plan itineraries like: arrive in Doha → visit Muscat, Dubai, Riyadh → come back or move on, all under one visa (when fully implemented).
  • Reduction in visa hassles for travellers from countries that currently need separate visas for several GCC states.
  • More incentive to stay longer in Qatar (and in the Gulf region), explore cultural, heritage, adventure tourism beyond just Doha.

What Visitors Should Do Now (Preparation Tips)

  • Keep Track of Official Sources: Qatar’s Ministry of Interior / Qatar Tourism / GCC Secretariat announcements. Confirm eligibility for your nationality.
  • Ensure Passport Validity: Make sure your passport has sufficient validity (6 months often) and all required documentation ready.
  • Plan Itinerary: Considering multi-country Gulf travel? Plan with flexibility so you can leverage the unified visa once launched.
  • Budget for Visa Costs: Since fee isn’t known, have an estimate and monitor news for when the final fee and processing time are announced.
  • Stay Alert for Pilot-Phase Rules: During pilot, there may be limitations (fewer nationalities, limited entry points, shorter duration).

For anyone targeting Qatar as part of a Gulf tour, the coming GCC Grand Tours Visa opens up exciting possibilities. It promises to make travel smoother, more affordable, and richer in experience. While the full details are still being finalized, especially around rules for Qatar, the direction is clear: regional tourism in the GCC is evolving, and Qatar will be a central beneficiary of the change.

The kind of break you don’t feel guilty about Especially at 35% off at Zulal Wellness Resort

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Find Your Balance This Winter at Zulal Wellness Resort

As the weather cools, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som offers the perfect escape to slow down, breathe, and reset – whether you’re planning a solo retreat or time away with someone special.

Winter Wellness Escape

Zulal’s biggest seasonal offer brings up to 35% off any stay. Guests can enjoy wellness programs focused on movement, mindfulness, and nourishment – all surrounded by calm desert landscapes.

Useful info:

  • Save up to 35% on stays
  • From QAR 1,698 per night
  • Tailored wellness activities and spa programs
  • Limited-time offer

Couple’s Retreat

For two people looking to reconnect, Zulal’s Couple’s Retreat blends wellness, privacy, and shared calm. Choose between:

  • Wellness Together – active bonding with yoga, Pilates, and outdoor activities
  • Recharge Together – slower-paced mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation

Both journeys include couple massages and a romantic starlit dinner for two.

Useful info:

  • Exclusive for couples
  • Two curated retreat options
  • Private accommodation and guided wellness experiences

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som
+974 4477 6555 ✉️ [email protected] Website – Zulal Wellness Resort

The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort Appoints Two New Culinary Leaders: Ushering in a New Era of Gastronomic Excellence

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The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort is delighted to announce the appointment of two distinguished talents to its culinary team. With their arrival, we mark the beginning of a sumptuous new chapter: one rooted in authenticity, craftsmanship and innovation, designed to delight the senses and raise the bar on every dining experience across the resort.

Philippe Bossert has been appointed Executive Chef. A Maitre Cuisinier de France, Chef Bossert’s passion for cooking was ignited by his father, grounded in cuisine built on quality ingredients and authentic flavours. His journey began at age 16, including an early internship at the famed Auberge de l’Ill under the Haeberlin brothers—then further enriched with mentorship under Francois Kiener at the one-Michelin-starred Auberge du Schoenenbourg in Alsace.

Over decades, Chef Bossert has honed his craft alongside luminaries such as Alain Ducasse, Emile Jung, Dominique Lestanc, Jacques Chibois, Michel Trama, Pierre Hermé, Patrick Henriroux, Philippe Faure Brac, Yannick Alléno, among others. His career has taken him across continents: France, Russia, Africa, the Indian Ocean, London, Azerbaijan, the Netherlands, Congo, Switzerland, Portugal, the Maldives and beyond. Having cooked for personalities including Boris Becker, President Vladimir Putin, Queen Consort Sirikit of Thailand, and others, he brings not only technical mastery but profound respect for the origins behind every ingredient. Chef Bossert’s ambition is simple yet profound: to offer exceptional cuisine that reflects his Alsatian roots, yet is alive to the flavours, spices and local produce of his current home. At The Chedi Katara, he leads our kitchens to blend regional character with global sophistication.

Joining him is Kimberly Pummer, our new Pastry Chef, who brings German precision, profound creativity, and a passion for both classic technique and modern innovation. From her apprenticeship at Kaefer Berlin—serving the German Parliament, where she mastered chocolate artistry, pralines, plated desserts and grand buffets—to her time at Orania.Berlin under the direction of Chef Philipp Vogel, to leadership roles most recently at Fauchon Paris Restaurant at The St. Regis Doha, Kimberly has demonstrated technical brilliance, artistry and a gift for guiding teams under high-pressure service.

At The Chedi Katara, Chef Kimberly will craft dessert menus and patisserie offerings that surprise and delight: marrying timeless European craftsmanship with seasonal sourcing, artistic presentation, and an intuitive understanding of guest expectation.

The Chedi Katara has always been a place where architecture, culture and hospitality meet in exquisite harmony. With Chef Philippe Bossert and Pastry Chef Kimberly Pummer at the helm, we embrace a new era of culinary artistry.

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail Presents a Michelin-Starred Culinary Journey with Guest Chef Sergio Vineis

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Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail Presents a Michelin-Starred Culinary Journey with Guest Chef Sergio Vineis Lusail, Qatar – October 10 th , 2025 – Scarpetta at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is proud to present the Michelin Star Experience from 9 th to 13 th October, featuring Chef Sergio Vineis and his son, Chef Simone, the acclaimed duo behind Italy’s Michelin-starred Il Patio restaurant.

Chef Sergio Vineis continues to redefine Italian cuisine by crafting unexpected dishes that blend
contemporary flair with a spirit of reinvention. His son, Chef Simone Vineis, naturally grew up in the kitchen, embracing the same creative freedom and drive to innovate. Using only the finest Italian ingredients, each creation is executed with precision and presented with elegance to captivate the modern diner.

In partnership with Chef Middle East and Il Patio, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail, invites guests to a week-long culinary celebration. Experience a specially curated à la carte menu alongside exclusive events and sophisticated dining moments, all designed to showcase the richness and artistry of Italian gastronomy in Qatar.

The week concludes on 13 October with an exclusive gala dinner, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor Chef Sergio Vineis’s renowned dishes and be part of an unforgettable culinary finale.

The event celebrates the very best of Italian cuisine. Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is grateful for the support of its partners, guests as well as the culinary community, and looks forward to more exciting collaborations ahead. Bookings are now open. To reserve your table or for more details, please contact +974 4456 5779 or WhatsApp +974 6673 8442

Three Years of SUSHISAMBA Doha: Join the Celebration with Three Days of Unmissable Festivities and Exclusive Offers!

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Lusail, Qatar – October 10th, 2025 – SUSHISAMBA Doha at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail proudly celebrates its third anniversary with an electrifying three-day celebration from October 10th to 12th. Marking a milestone of creativity, community, and cultural blend, the festivities promise an immersive experience where rhythm, flavour, and artistry come together in true SUSHISAMBA style.

SUSHISAMBA Doha has captivated guests with its vibrant blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian influences—creating a dining destination that embodies energy and innovation. This anniversary weekend invites guests to dine, dance, and celebrate a world of colour, music, and exceptional cuisine.

The celebrations begin on Friday, October 10, with the Anniversary Brunch from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Guests can relive the best of SUSHISAMBA’s past brunches with a curated selection of signature cocktails, a samba parade, and many more live entertainments that set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon capturing the restaurant’s signature vibrance and flair.

The excitement continues on Saturday, October 11, with the Beach Club Anniversary, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Set along the stunning Lusail coastline, this exclusive event turns Doha’s premier beach and pool club into a vibrant celebration of music, with DJ Pascal bringing the beats as guests enjoy cocktails, coastal-inspired dishes, and the lively rhythms of samba.

The festivities conclude on Sunday, October 12, with a curated Four Hands Dinner from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm. This unique culinary collaboration unites Chef John Um and Chef Esteban Guevara in a masterful tasting experience that showcases their artistry and shared passion for innovation. Each course is paired with live performances creating a lively and immersive dining experience.

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail celebrates its third anniversary with gratitude to its guests, partners, and the vibrant SUSHISAMBA community, looking forward to many more years of unforgettable moments, exceptional dining, and creativity.

[email protected] or reach out via +974 4456 5774 | 66831580

The Little Things and Spacetoon Debut New Pop-up Store in Doha

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The Little Things, a leading pop-culture retail brand, is continuing its rapid expansion across the MENA region with the opening of its first pop-up store in Doha Festival City Mall in Qatar. This exciting new venture, initiated in collaboration with its global and regional operations and marketing partner, Spacetoon, comes just days after the grand opening of a new store at Red Sea Mall in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The new pop-up store features an extensive range of products including toys, blind boxes, anime figures, trading cards, statues, and official merchandise from fan-favorite shows and global brands. Collectors will also find The Little Things exclusives such as Funko Pops, TCG collectibles, and limited-edition releases, making the store a must-visit for both casual fans and dedicated enthusiasts.

Commenting on the launch, Hassan Tamimi, CEO at The Little Things, said

This expansion into Qatar is a key milestone for us as we continue our GCC growth strategy. Our goal is to make The Little Things the go-to destination for toys, collectibles, and pop culture in Qatar, while fostering a vibrant community of fans and collectors. We believe Doha Festival City is the ideal place to begin this journey, and we look forward to unlocking new worlds for our customers.

Hassan Tamimi, CEO at The Little Things

Ahmad Weiss, General Manager of Spacetoon Entertainment, said that:

We are immensely proud to witness the continued growth of The Little Things across the region and delighted to be part of this remarkable journey. Qatar has long been a vibrant home for entertainment and culture, and opening this store in one of Doha’s premier destinations provides us with a fantastic opportunity to engage with our audience. It also allows them to discover and enjoy a curated selection of products sourced from different parts of the world.

Ahmad Weiss, General Manager of Spacetoon Entertainment

“We’ve always believed in bringing our fans closer to the characters and stories they love. This pop-up store is more than just a retail space, it’s a community hub where pop culture comes alive,” added Tamimi.

The Little Things marked its Qatar entry with the “Grand Unlocking” event. The celebration offered fans immersive experiences like a dedicated photobooth and an in-store scavenger hunt, encouraging visitors to engage, create content, and win prizes. Highlighting the event was a cosplay contest that brought together talented artists from various destinations to celebrate the milestone and showcase their talent.

Earlier this year, Spacetoon has been officially appointed as the global and regional operations and marketing agent for The Little Things.

Both parties have already unveiled their ambitious 2025 expansion strategy, aiming to establish a presence in six countries, including Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon and Uzbekistan, building on the brand’s strong foundations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. As part of this plan, the partners are set to open six new retail stores and nine pop-up locations this year, further enhancing The Little Things’ portfolio, which already includes three flagship stores at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Bluewaters.