Home Blog Page 18

Qatar Launches Large Scale Wilderness Clean-Up Campaign

0

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, represented by the Wildlife Protection Department, implemented a number of cleaning campaigns in scattered wilderness sites, as part of the “Cleaning and Nursery Campaigns” project, which targets various regions of the country.

The cleaning campaigns included a number of nurseries in the northern and southern regions, in addition to the western oases, in response to the accumulation of waste resulting from rainfall and winds, in order to maintain the cleanliness of the wilderness environment and protect it.

Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026 in Doha, Qatar: Date, Venue & What to Expect

0

Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026 in Doha is set to bring raw power, elite athleticism, and high-energy competition to the heart of the city on 23 January 2026. Hosted at Aspire Park, this free-to-attend sporting event is one of the most exciting sports events in Qatar and a must-watch for fitness fans and families alike.

Taking place in Doha’s iconic Aspire Zone, Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026 showcases top athletes battling through extreme strength challenges such as truck pulling, Conan’s Wheel, and sandbag lifting. Whether you are searching for things to do in Doha, outdoor events, or live sports action, this competition delivers an unforgettable experience.

Event Overview

Qatar’s Strongest Man is an annual strength competition that tests the limits of human endurance and power. Athletes compete across multiple disciplines designed to measure brute strength, stamina, and mental toughness.

Each event challenges competitors in different ways, making the competition fast-paced and thrilling for spectators.

Date, Timings & Location

Event date

  • 23 January 2026

Location

Aspire Park is one of Doha’s largest green spaces and a popular venue for major sports and community events.

Event timings will be announced by the organizer closer to the date.

Events & Challenges to Expect

Spectators can expect a full lineup of classic strongman challenges, including:

  • Truck pulling
  • Conan’s Wheel
  • Sandbag lifting
  • Additional strength and endurance events

Each challenge is designed to push athletes to their physical limits while keeping the audience engaged throughout the competition.

Tickets & Entry Information

  • Entry fee: Free
  • Registration: Not required for spectators

This makes Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026 an accessible and family-friendly event for everyone in Doha.

What Makes This Special

Qatar’s Strongest Man stands out among events in Doha because it brings international-level strength sports into a public, outdoor setting.

Why it draws crowds:

  • Free entry for all spectators
  • Rare chance to watch elite strength athletes live
  • High-energy atmosphere in a central Doha location
  • Suitable for all ages

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for:

  • Fitness and strength sports fans
  • Families looking for free things to do in Doha
  • Sports photography enthusiasts
  • Anyone interested in live competitive events in Qatar

Why This Event Matters in Qatar

Strength sports continue to grow in popularity across the region. Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026 in Doha highlights the country’s commitment to diverse sporting events and community engagement, aligning with Qatar’s broader vision of promoting active lifestyles and public sports culture.

Hosting the event at Aspire Park also reinforces Doha’s role as a hub for international-standard sporting experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Qatar’s Strongest Man 2026?
The competition takes place on 23 January 2026.

Where is Qatar’s Strongest Man held?
At Aspire Park in Doha, Qatar.

Is Qatar’s Strongest Man free to attend?
Yes. Entry is completely free for spectators.

What kind of events will athletes compete in?
Events include truck pulling, Conan’s Wheel, sandbag lifting, and other strength challenges.

Is the event suitable for families?
Yes. It is an outdoor, family-friendly sporting event.

Qatar’s Population Rises by 2.3% in 2025

0

The population of the State of Qatar reached 3,214,609 people by the end of December 2025, recording an increase of 2.3% compared to December of the year 2024.

Qatar Airways Lands Inaugural Flight in Hail, Saudi Arabia

0

Qatar Airways has officially launched three non-stop weekly flights between Hamad International Airport and Hail International Airport, marking Hail as the airline’s 13th destination in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The new service reinforces Qatar Airways’ strategic focus on expanding its footprint across Saudi Arabia, underlining the Kingdom’s importance within the airline’s global network.

Strengthening regional connectivity

Aligned with the carrier’s long-term vision to enhance regional and global connectivity, the Hail route is expected to facilitate increased travel from Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia to Saudi Arabia’s north-central region via Doha.

With the addition of Hail, Qatar Airways now operates over 150 weekly flights to Saudi Arabia, serving the following destinations:

  • Abha
  • AlUla
  • Dammam
  • Jeddah
  • Medina
  • NEOM
  • Qassim
  • Riyadh
  • Tabuk
  • Taif
  • The Red Sea
  • Yanbu
  • Hail

Voted the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2025, Qatar Airways continues to offer seamless connections to more than 170 global destinations through its award-winning Doha hub.

About Hail Province

The Hail Province, located in north-central Saudi Arabia, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and striking desert landscapes. Once a key stop along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes, the region is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing rock art that dates back thousands of years.

Today, Hail is emerging as an important cultural and regional centre, attracting travellers seeking authentic heritage experiences and outdoor adventures.

Flight schedule to Hail

Qatar Airways operates flights to Hail three times weekly on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday:

  • DOH to HAS
    Flight QR1228
    Departure: 14:20
    Arrival: 16:30
  • HAS to DOH
    Flight QR1229
    Departure: 17:30
    Arrival: 19:25

Privilege Club benefits

Members of the Qatar Airways Privilege Club can earn Avios on flights to and from Hail, as well as while shopping and dining at Qatar Duty Free at Hamad International Airport. Avios can be redeemed for flights, lifestyle rewards, or exclusive experiences through the Privilege Club Collection.

Bookings are available via the airline’s official website and mobile application, further supporting Qatar Airways’ commitment to expanding services and connectivity across the Saudi market.

Fireworks at Sealine Season 2026 in Qatar: Dates, Tickets, Venue & What to Expect

Fireworks at Sealine Season 2026 in Qatar promise a spectacular desert-night experience that blends live music, family entertainment, and large-scale fireworks displays. Taking place at Sealine from 16 January to 30 January 2026, this event is part of the wider Sealine Season celebrations and is among the most searched events in Qatar this winter.

Held in the scenic desert setting near Doha, Fireworks at Sealine Season 2026 are scheduled on major concert nights, creating a must-see attraction for residents and visitors looking for memorable things to do in Qatar. With multiple dates, ticket options, and free entry on the final night, this event is designed for families, music fans, and outdoor lovers alike.

Event Overview

Fireworks at Sealine Season are a signature highlight of the annual Sealine celebrations. The event combines traditional concerts, cultural performances, family-friendly activities, and synchronized fireworks that light up the desert sky after each major show.

Each fireworks night follows a live concert, making the experience more immersive and festive. The open-air desert setting adds to the atmosphere, offering a unique alternative to city-based fireworks displays.

Dates, Timings & Location

Fireworks dates

Fireworks timing

  • Approximately 10:00 pm to 11:59 pm
  • Fireworks begin after the concerts end at 10:00 pm

Location

  • Sealine Circuit Sports Club
    Mawater Area

Sealine Circuit Sports Club is easily accessible from Doha and is a popular venue for large-scale outdoor events in Qatar.

Concert Nights Featuring Fireworks

Fireworks will take place on each Sealine Nights concert day:

Tickets & Booking Information

Ticket prices vary depending on the date and experience selected.

Ticket pricing

Tickets can be booked through the official Sealine Season channels. Availability may be limited on concert nights.

What Makes This Special

Fireworks at Sealine Season 2026 stand out because of their scale and setting.

Key highlights include:

  • Fireworks in a desert environment near Doha
  • Live concerts followed immediately by fireworks
  • Mix of paid and free-entry nights
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with multiple activities

It is one of the few events in Qatar where music, culture, and fireworks are combined in one experience.

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for:

  • Families looking for outdoor activities in Qatar
  • Music fans attending Sealine Nights concerts
  • Groups seeking weekend things to do near Doha
  • Visitors wanting a unique Qatar desert experience

Why This Event Matters in Qatar

Sealine Season plays an important role in Qatar’s winter entertainment calendar. Events like Fireworks at Sealine Season 2026 in Qatar help activate outdoor tourism, promote local and regional music, and provide accessible entertainment options for residents.

The inclusion of a free fireworks night also makes the event inclusive and widely appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the fireworks at Sealine Season 2026?
Fireworks take place on 16, 23, and 30 January 2026, after the concerts.

Where is Fireworks at Sealine Season held?
At Sealine Circuit Sports Club, Mawater, near Mesaieed, Qatar.

Is there a free fireworks night?
Yes. Entry on 30 January 2026 is free.

What time do the fireworks start?
Fireworks begin after the concerts, around 10:00 pm.

Are tickets refundable?
Ticket policies depend on the organizer. It is advised to confirm before booking.

Haflatna Al Top 2026 in Doha, Qatar: Dates, Tickets, Venue & What to Expect

Haflatna Al Top 2026 in Doha is one of the most anticipated family-friendly theatre events in Qatar, bringing music, storytelling, and imagination together in a live stage experience for children. Running from 29 January to 1 February 2026, this musical play is set to delight young audiences and parents looking for meaningful things to do in Doha during the winter season.

Hosted in Doha, Haflatna Al Top blends adventure, fantasy, and original songs into a visually rich performance that celebrates dreams, graduation, and growing up. If you are searching for kids events in Qatar, theatre shows in Doha, or cultural activities for families, this production deserves a place on your calendar.

Haflatna Al Top
Haflatna Al Top

Haflatna Al Top also known as Our Party Top is a children’s musical theatre production built around imagination and ambition. The story follows a group of students preparing for their graduation party and a dream project every graduate hopes to achieve.

On a mysterious night, the students are transported into magical worlds. Each world brings them closer to their dreams through challenges, excitement, and music, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and inspiring for young viewers.

Creative team highlights

  • Written by Athbi Al-Dabis
  • Directed by Abdulaziz Abdullah
  • General Supervision by Abdulaziz Al-Suwaidi

Dates, Timings & Location

The event runs across four days, making it ideal for weekend family plans.

Event dates

  • 29 January to 1 February 2026

Venue

  • U Venue

U Venue is a well-known indoor performance space in Doha, offering comfortable seating and a controlled environment suitable for children.

Tickets & Booking Information

Tickets are available online and should be booked in advance due to limited seating.

Key ticket information

  • Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable
  • Food and drinks are not allowed inside the theatre
  • Photography is permitted during showtime

👉 Book tickets here: https://www.eventat.com/top-festival

Early booking is recommended, especially for weekend shows.

What Makes This Special

Haflatna Al Top stands out among events in Qatar because it combines education and entertainment without feeling instructional.

What sets it apart:

  • Original musical numbers designed for children
  • Fantasy-driven storytelling that sparks imagination
  • A positive message about dreams, teamwork, and growth
  • Live theatre experience suitable for young audiences

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for:

  • Families with children
  • Parents seeking cultural kids activities in Doha
  • Schools and educational groups
  • Anyone looking for weekend things to do in Doha with kids

The production is engaging for children while remaining enjoyable for adults.

Why This Event Matters in Qatar

Children’s theatre plays an important role in Qatar’s growing cultural and creative scene. Haflatna Al Top 2026 in Doha contributes to the diversity of family-focused events and supports local and regional talent in performing arts.

As Doha continues to expand its entertainment offerings, productions like this help position Qatar as a destination for high-quality cultural experiences for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Haflatna Al Top 2026 in Doha?
The event runs from 29 January to 1 February 2026.

Where is Haflatna Al Top taking place?
The show will be held at U Venue in Doha, Qatar.

Is Haflatna Al Top suitable for young children?
Yes. The musical is designed specifically for children and families.

Can I bring food or drinks into the theatre?
No. Food and drinks are not allowed inside the venue.

Are tickets refundable?
No. All tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

How to Renew Your Indian Passport in Qatar: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

0

Renewing your Indian passport in Qatar is a straightforward process, whether your passport is expiring, pages are exhausted, or you need to update personal details.

This complete guide explains how to renew an Indian passport in Qatar, including online registration, application steps, required documents, fees, and Embassy visit details.

Who Can Apply for Passport Renewal in Qatar

You can apply for re-issue of an Indian passport in Qatar if:

  • Passport validity is expiring or expired
  • Pages are exhausted
  • Personal details need correction
  • Passport is damaged or lost
  • Change of address or name is required

Applications are processed through the official Passport Seva system and completed at the Embassy of India, Doha.

Phase 1: Online Registration and Login

Complete the registration process 
Complete the registration process 

Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal

  • Visit the Passport Seva website
  • Click Register on the top right
  • Select Embassy/Consulate
  • Create a Login ID and password
Complete registration
Complete registration

Step 2: Verify Your Email

  • Enter the verification code sent to your email
  • Complete registration

Step 3: Login

  • Log in using your User ID and password
Log in using your User ID and password
Log in using your User ID and password

Phase 2: Complete the Passport Application Form

Once logged in, select Apply for Fresh Passport / Re-issue of Passport. The application consists of nine sections.

Section 1: Passport Type

  • Select Normal or Tatkal
  • Choose 36 pages or 60 pages
  • Select re-issue reason
  • Save and continue

Section 2: Applicant Details

  • Enter name, gender, date and place of birth
  • Declare name changes or aliases, if any
  • Provide Aadhaar number (optional)
  • Mention distinguishing mark if applicable

Section 3: Family Details

  • Enter father and mother details
  • Spouse details mandatory if married

Section 4: Address Details

  • Specify whether printable address is outside India
  • Enter current address
  • Provide one Indian address for police verification

Important notes

  • Address proof is required if address differs from previous passport
  • Foreign address printing depends on Embassy approval

Section 5: Emergency Contact

  • Provide name, address, mobile number, and email

Section 6: Previous Passport Details

  • Enter passport number, issue place, issue date, expiry date
  • Mention any diplomatic or official passport history

Section 7: Other Details

  • Mandatory legal and criminal background questions
  • Declare any pending cases or convictions

Section 8: Passport Preview

  • Review all details carefully
  • Check spelling, dates, and address
  • Confirm photograph and signature placement

Section 9: Final Verification

  • Review summary
  • Submit application

After submission, you will receive your Application Reference Number (ARN).

Successful Submission

Phase 3: Submission and Embassy Visit

Before Visiting the Embassy

  • Upload required documents, photo, and signature
  • Print the completed application form

Documents to Carry

  • Printed application form
  • Original passport
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Qatar ID and photocopy
  • Supporting documents as applicable

Payment

  • Fees must be paid in cash only
  • Carry exact change
  • Printing services are available at the Embassy for cash
Embassy of India, Doha.
Embassy of India, Doha.

Indian Passport Services Timings in Qatar

Embassy Working Hours

  • Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
  • Friday and Saturday: Closed

Submission Timings

  • Passport, PCC, Visa: 8:00 am to 11:15 am
  • Attestation, NRI, NOC, POA: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Collection Timings

  • Passport collection: 2:00 pm to 4:15 pm
  • PCC, Visa, Attestation: 3:00 pm to 4:15 pm

Indian Passport Renewal Fees in Qatar

Adults

  • Re-issue Ordinary Passport (36 pages): QR 259
  • Re-issue Jumbo Passport (60 pages): QR 345
  • Tatkal Jumbo Passport: QR 517 (Tatkal) + QR 345

Children Below 15 Years

  • Ordinary Passport (5-year validity): QR 173
  • Birth Registration: QR 69
  • Birth Certificate: QR 87
  • Tatkal charges apply additionally

Additional Fee

  • Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF): QR 7 per applicant

Embassy of India, Doha – Contact Details

  • Address: Villa No 86 and 90, Street 941, Al Eithra Street, Zone 63, Onaiza, Doha
  • Contact Number: +974 4425 5777
  • Official Website: indianembassyqatar.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an appointment required for Indian passport renewal in Qatar?

No. Passport submission does not require a prior appointment.

Can I renew my Indian passport under Tatkal in Qatar?

Yes. Tatkal services are available with additional charges.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for passport renewal abroad?

No. Aadhaar is optional for overseas Indian passport applications.

How long does passport renewal take in Qatar?

Processing time varies, especially if police verification is required in India.

Road to Awareness: Ride for Education 2026 in Doha: Dates, Tickets, Venue & What to Expect

Road to Awareness: Ride for Education 2026 in Doha returns as one of the most meaningful charity cycling events in Qatar. Hosted by the Qatar Marriott Worldwide Business Council, this fourth edition brings the community together to support education-focused causes while promoting health and social responsibility.

Taking place in Doha at the iconic Sheraton Grand Doha, Road to Awareness: Ride for Education 2026 in Qatar is open to families, cycling enthusiasts, and anyone looking for impactful things to do in Doha. With accessible routes, a strong charitable mission, and a family-friendly environment, the event blends purpose with participation.

Event Overview

Road to Awareness: Ride for Education is a charity cycling initiative supporting the Education Above All Foundation. Organized in collaboration with more than 20 Marriott properties in Qatar, the event highlights the power of collective action for education.

Participants can choose between family-friendly routes and general cycling routes, making it suitable for both casual riders and experienced cyclists.

Registered riders receive:

  • Official event jersey
  • Full access to event facilities
  • Entry to a community-focused charity experience

Dates, Timings & Location

  • Date: Saturday, 10 January 2026
  • Registration opens: 6:00 AM
  • Ride start time: 7:00 AM
  • Venue: Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel
  • Location: Doha, Qatar

The central Doha location makes the event easily accessible for participants and spectators.

Tickets & Booking Information

  • Ticket price: From QAR 10
  • Tickets available at the door: Yes
  • Advance registration recommended

👉 Register here: https://snoonu.com/scity/events/events/road-to-awareness-ride-for-education

All registered riders receive an event jersey and full participation access.

What Makes This Special

This event goes beyond cycling. It directly contributes to education initiatives while encouraging an active lifestyle in Qatar.

Key highlights include:

  • Charity-driven cycling for a global cause
  • Family and general cycling routes
  • Community participation across all age groups
  • Food and beverage stalls on site
  • A safe and inclusive event environment

It is one of the few events in Doha that combines fitness, family engagement, and social impact.

Who Should Attend

Road to Awareness: Ride for Education 2026 in Doha is ideal for:

  • Families looking for weekend activities in Doha
  • Cycling enthusiasts in Qatar
  • Corporate teams and community groups
  • Individuals passionate about education and charity

The event is open to all ages, with cycling participation allowed for individuals aged 12 to 70.

Why This Event Matters in Qatar

Education remains a national priority in Qatar. Events like Road to Awareness: Ride for Education strengthen community involvement while supporting long-term educational initiatives.

As Qatar continues to promote wellness, sustainability, and social responsibility, charity-led events like this play a key role in shaping inclusive and purpose-driven events in Qatar.

Event Guidelines & Facilities

  • Dress code: Sports attire
  • Abaya allowed: Yes
  • Women-only area: No
  • Facilities for people with disabilities: Not available
  • Food and beverage stalls: Available
  • Payment methods: Cash and card
  • Outside food: Allowed
  • Cameras and video recording: Allowed
  • QID required: Yes

T-shirt sizes available:

  • S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Road to Awareness: Ride for Education suitable for children?
Yes. The event is open to all ages. Cycling participation is limited to ages 12 to 70.

Where does the cycling event take place in Doha?
The event starts from Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.

Are tickets available on the event day?
Yes. Tickets can be purchased at the door, subject to availability.

Can I bring my own food to the event?
Yes. Outside food is allowed, and food stalls are also available on site.

Mary Poppins The Musical 2026 in Doha: Dates, Tickets, Venue & What to Expect

Mary Poppins The Musical 2026 in Doha is set to be one of the most anticipated live theatre events in Qatar this year. For the first time ever, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney bring their award-winning stage production of Mary Poppins to Doha, offering audiences a world-class West End style experience.

Taking place at the iconic Al Mayassa Theatre in Qatar, Mary Poppins The Musical 2026 in Doha is a must-see for families, theatre lovers, and anyone searching for unforgettable things to do in Doha. From spectacular stage effects to timeless music, this production raises the bar for live entertainment in Qatar.

Mary Poppins The Musical is based on the beloved stories by P.L. Travers and the classic Disney film. The production combines dazzling choreography, imaginative stage magic, and a powerful live orchestra.

The Doha performances feature acclaimed Australian stars Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins and Jack Chambers as Bert, both praised internationally for their standout performances.

Expect a visually rich, emotionally engaging show that brings Cherry Tree Lane to life on stage.

Dates, Timings & Location

  • Dates: Multiple dates available in 2026
  • Show duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
  • Venue: Al Mayassa Theatre
  • Location: Qatar National Convention Centre, Ar Rayyan, Doha

Age guidelines:

  • Recommended for ages 5 and above
  • Children under 5 will not be admitted
  • Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21+

Tickets & Booking Information

Tickets for Mary Poppins The Musical 2026 in Doha are now available online, with different pricing for weekdays and weekends.

Weekday ticket prices (Sunday evening to Wednesday):

  • Royal: QAR 860
  • VIP: QAR 660
  • Platinum: QAR 460
  • Diamond: QAR 360
  • Gold: QAR 260
  • Silver: QAR 160

Weekend ticket prices (Thursday to Sunday afternoon):

  • Royal: QAR 970
  • VIP: QAR 770
  • Platinum: QAR 570
  • Diamond: QAR 470
  • Gold: QAR 370
  • Silver: QAR 270

Accessible seating is available and must be booked in advance.

👉 Book tickets here: https://feverup.com/m/522751

What Makes This Special

This production stands out as one of the most visually impressive musicals ever staged in Qatar.

Highlights include:

  • Iconic songs like Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Step in Time, and A Spoonful of Sugar
  • Jaw-dropping flying sequences and stage illusions
  • A live orchestra performing the classic Sherman Brothers score
  • Additional music by Olivier Award winners George Stiles and Anthony Drewe

Mary Poppins does not just appear on stage. She soars.

Who Should Attend

Mary Poppins The Musical 2026 in Doha is ideal for:

  • Families looking for premium kids-friendly events in Qatar
  • Theatre enthusiasts and musical lovers
  • Tourists searching for cultural events in Doha
  • Fans of Disney classics and live stage performances

It is a perfect introduction to theatre for younger audiences and a nostalgic experience for adults.

Why This Event Matters in Qatar

Major international theatre productions are still rare in the region. Hosting Mary Poppins The Musical in Doha reflects Qatar’s growing position as a global cultural destination.

With venues like Al Mayassa Theatre attracting world-class productions, Doha continues to expand its live entertainment scene beyond sports and festivals, offering residents and visitors more high-quality things to do in Qatar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mary Poppins The Musical suitable for children?
Yes. The show is recommended for children aged 5 and above. All guests must have a valid ticket.

Where is Mary Poppins The Musical happening in Doha?
The performances take place at Al Mayassa Theatre inside the Qatar National Convention Centre.

How long is the show?
The total runtime is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including an intermission.

Are tickets refundable or transferable?
Ticket policies depend on the booking platform. Check the ticket provider’s terms before purchasing.

Qatar Tax Authority Seizes 5,000 Illegal Tobacco Packs in Excise Law Crackdown

0

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance tax compliance, the General Tax Authority announced the seizure of a number of retail outlets found in violation of the Excise Tax Law, as part of its regulatory campaigns aimed at combating the illicit circulation of tobacco products.

The Authority’s inspection team, succeeded in seizing and confiscating more than 5,000 packs of tobacco products that were not bearing approved tax stamps and did not meet the approved specifications. Legal reports were issued against the owners of the violating outlets, in preparation for taking and completing the necessary legal actions in accordance with the applicable legislation.

These measures come as part of the Authority’s ongoing inspection campaigns, which include the analysis and auditing of supply chains to detect and combat the illicit trade of tobacco products, and the application of compliance standards set out in the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, thereby contributing to the reduction of health risks associated with the circulation of smuggled products, which pose greater risks to consumer health.

The Authority’s efforts in this regard are aligned with the Third National Development Strategy (2024–2030), which aims to ensure a high quality of life for individuals by reducing the prevalence of smoking. They are also consistent with the National Health Strategy, which seeks to protect members of society from the risks of tobacco and its derivatives through the imposition of taxes on the production and importation of these products, thereby enhancing public health in the State of Qatar.

It is worth noting that the tax stamp is a distinctive mark in the form of a physical label or a digital code containing encrypted data, affixed to excise-taxable goods. The General Tax Authority launched the first and second phases of the tax stamp system in 2022, while the third phase began implementation in early 2023 within local markets. This phase stipulates that all tobacco products and their derivatives circulated in local markets must bear approved tax stamps.

The General Tax Authority affirmed that it will continue its inspection campaigns to monitor illicit trade in tobacco products, calling on all relevant entities to comply with the provisions of tax laws and related executive regulations to avoid legal accountability. The Authority also urged importers of cigarettes and other tobacco products to register on the “Dhareeba” platform under the excise goods track-and-trace system, noting that the import or circulation of any excise goods within the country is not permitted without valid and activated excise stamps.