Doha Metro and Lusail Tram have officially announced extended service hours to support spectators attending the highly anticipated Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025. The move aims to ensure smooth and efficient transportation for fans travelling to and from the Lusail International Circuit during the race weekend.
This announcement strengthens Qatar’s commitment to delivering seamless mobility solutions for global sporting events and reinforces Doha Metro as the preferred travel option for major events in the country.
Extended Doha Metro and Lusail Tram Timings for F1 in Qatar
To accommodate increased passenger demand during the Formula 1 weekend, the following extended service hours will be in effect:
28 November Friday from 9 am to 1:30 am 29 November Saturday from 5 am to 1:30 am 30 November Sunday from 5 am to 2:30 am
These revised schedules ensure fans can enjoy the full F1 experience without concerns about late night travel.
Boosting Accessibility for Formula 1 Fans
The extension comes as thousands of visitors arrive in Qatar for one of the biggest motorsport events in the region. With Doha Metro directly connecting key locations across the city and Lusail Tram improving last mile connectivity, spectators can expect a stress free and environmentally friendly commute to the race venue.
The initiative aligns with Qatar’s vision of promoting sustainable transport while enhancing the overall fan experience at international sporting events.
Qatar Strengthens Event Transport Infrastructure
As F1 in Qatar continues to attract global attention, transport authorities are ensuring efficient crowd movement and improved public convenience. The extended hours reflect the strategic planning behind Qatar’s major event logistics and its readiness to manage large scale visitor flow.
This announcement also highlights Doha Metro’s growing role as a backbone for Qatar news related to mega events, reinforcing its importance in the country’s infrastructure ecosystem.
Qatar News | Doha Metro | Lusail Tram | F1 in Qatar | Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2025 | Qatar transport update | Qatar events travel
Portugal vs Austria U17 delivered a thrilling under 17 world cup final at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025. Explore match highlights, tournament impact and why this historic encounter will be remembered for years.
Portugal vs Austria U17 A Historic Under 17 World Cup Final
The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 reached its emotional peak as Portugal vs Austria U17 took centre stage in the highly anticipated under 17 world cup final. Football fans across the world tuned in to witness this defining clash at Khalifa International Stadium, where passion, talent and youthful brilliance came together.
This FIFA U-17 World Cup final lived up to expectations as Portugal emerged victorious, claiming their first ever title in the FIFA U17 category and writing a new chapter in under 17 world cup history.
The match became one of the most searched football moments of the year, with keywords like portugal vs austria, fifa u-17 world cup final and u17 world cup 2025 trending globally.
FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 Redefines Youth Football
The under 17 world cup hosted in Qatar marked a significant evolution for global youth football. With 48 teams competing, the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 became the most inclusive edition ever, giving emerging football nations a global platform to shine.
The expansion transformed the FIFA U17 tournament into a true celebration of international youth talent, and reinforced Qatar’s role as a premier destination for football tournaments.
The success of the under 17 world cup final between Portugal vs Austria further elevated the tournament’s visibility and global appeal.
Portugal vs Austria A Battle of Skill and Determination
The portugal vs austria showdown in the fifa u-17 world cup final was a masterclass in discipline and strategy. The Portugal U17 side showcased composure and technical intelligence while Austria U17 displayed fierce determination and resilience.
The winning moment came through a decisive goal that reflected years of training and tactical excellence. From the opening whistle to the final celebration, the portugal vs austria u17 encounter delivered non stop excitement and emotional intensity.
This historic performance secured Portugal’s place as champions of the U17 World Cup 2025 and confirmed their dominance in the fifa u17 landscape.
Under 17 World Cup Final Elevates Qatar’s Football Legacy
The under 17 world cup final once again showcased Qatar’s world class infrastructure and organisational capabilities. Khalifa International Stadium became the beating heart of world youth football as fans witnessed football history unfold.
From hosting the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 to previous global tournaments, Qatar continues to strengthen its reputation as a global football powerhouse.
The success of the u17 world cup 2025 confirms that Qatar is not just a host but a leader in shaping the future of football.
What the FIFA U-17 World Cup Means for the Future of Football
The FIFA U-17 World Cup is more than a tournament. It is a platform where tomorrow’s legends are born. The portugal vs austria u17 final symbolised the dreams of young players aspiring to represent their nations on the world stage.
This tournament amplifies the importance of youth academies, grassroots football and early talent development. Scouts and clubs now see the fifa u-17 world cup 2025 as a key talent discovery stage for future global stars.
A Defining Moment in U17 World Cup 2025 History
As the curtains fell on the under 17 world cup final, one truth stood clear. The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 has redefined youth football excellence.
From portugal vs austria u17 to the celebration of Portugal’s victory, this tournament delivered unforgettable sporting moments and emotional triumphs. It highlighted the raw energy, ambition and passion that defines fifa u17 football.
The world did not just witness a final. It witnessed the future of the beautiful game.
As of November 25, 2025, Qatari nationals no longer need a visitor visa to fly to Canada. They can now apply for a five-year electronic travel authorization (eTA) for just CAD 7. Discover how it works, who is eligible, and what has changed.
Qatar Joins Canada eTA Programme: A Major Travel Update
On 25 November 2025, the State of Qatar officially joined the Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) programme. This means Qatari citizens are now exempt from the Canadian visitor visa requirement when travelling to or transiting through Canada by air.
This landmark decision reflects strengthening diplomatic relations between Qatar and Canada while making international travel faster, simpler, and more accessible for Qatari nationals.
What Has Changed for Qatari Travellers
Qatari passport holders no longer need to apply for a traditional Canadian visitor visa. Instead, they can obtain an electronic travel authorization online.
Key benefits of the new policy include:
eTA validity of five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first
Multiple entries permitted within the validity period
Each visit allows a stay of up to six months
Quick approval process, often within minutes
Application fee set at CAD 7 only
This change significantly reduces processing time and paperwork, offering a smoother travel experience for leisure, business, and transit passengers.
Faster and easier travel is now a reality for Qatari citizens. With a simplified online application system, travellers no longer need lengthy embassy procedures. The change strengthens Qatar–Canada relations by boosting tourism, encouraging bilateral trade, and supporting academic and cultural exchanges. Frequent travellers benefit from long-term flexibility, making Canada more accessible for short-term visits and repeated travel plans.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada eTA for Qataris
To apply for the eTA, applicants must:
Hold a valid Qatari passport
Travel to Canada by air
Have a valid email address
Use a credit or debit card for payment
Apply online through the official government platform
If a traveller already has a valid Canadian visitor visa, it remains usable until its expiration date.
How to Apply for Canada eTA from Qatar
Follow these simple steps:
Visit the official Canadian government eTA application portal
Keep your passport, payment method, and email ready
Complete the online form carefully
Pay the CAD 7 processing fee
Receive your approval via email, usually within minutes
Ensure you travel using the same passport used during the application. A new passport requires a new eTA application.
This policy is expected to increase travel between Qatar and Canada significantly. Major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are likely to see increased tourism from Qatar while business travel and educational exchanges will also rise. The initiative supports smoother people-to-people connections and global mobility opportunities.
Qatar’s inclusion in the Canada eTA programme marks an important milestone in international travel policy. For Qatari citizens, visiting Canada is now faster, more affordable, and more convenient than ever before.
With just a few clicks and a low-cost application fee, travellers can enjoy seamless access to one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
Stephen came to Qatar for work, never expecting to return to music. But his powerful performance at UDST’s Got Talent changed everything. The security guard stunned the audience, earned overwhelming applause, and secured second place, touching hearts across the city.
As his voice filled the auditorium, emotions ran high. Many viewers said they were moved even before his final line.
From Work Visa Dreams to Musical Revival
Stephen arrived in Qatar with a simple goal: to build a better future through hard work. Music had become a distant memory, something he never imagined performing on a grand stage again. Yet his appearance at the University of Doha for Science and Technology’s Got Talent became a reminder that passion never truly fades. It waits for the right moment to return.
Silence turned into cheers and standing ovations as his performance reached its peak.
“Even hearing him on the last line, my soul was moved already,”
one attendee shared.
Stephen’s story reflects a deeper truth in Doha. Many security guards are hidden treasure boxes of talent. From singers to athletes, their abilities often go unnoticed. One resident even recalled meeting a semi-professional marathon runner among the guards at Bida Park.
Now going viral, Stephen’s journey symbolises hope, resilience, and second chances. It proves that talent can rise from the most unexpected places.
Why you need to watch this
It is not just a performance. It is a reminder that dreams never die, they simply wait to be rediscovered.
TAAMEER Development recently hosted a high-level delegation from Weifang City, China, at its new headquarters on Lusail Boulevard, marking a significant step in fostering international collaboration in real estate development and infrastructure.
The delegation was led by H.E. Mr. Di Bo, Deputy Mayor of Weifang City, and included senior officials such as Mr. Yang Diqiang, Director of the Science and Technology Office; Mr. Zhao Hailong, Director of the Cooperation and Investment Office; Ms. Cheng Jin, Mayor of Weicheng District; and Ms. Sun Hong, Deputy Director of the Foreign Affairs Office.
They were warmly received by Mr. Mohamed H. Al Ali, Chairman of the Group, Mr. Khalifa J. Al Majed, Chief Executive Officer, and the TAAMEER senior management team. During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between TAAMEER and Changda Construction, under the patronage of H.E. Mr. Di Bo. The agreement reflects the strength of Qatar-China economic relations and opens new avenues for joint investment and sustainable development.
Mr. Khalifa J. Al Majed, Group CEO, commented:
“We were honored to welcome the official delegation from Weifang City to our new headquarters in Lusail Boulevard. This visit reaffirms our mutual ambition to expand cooperation, integrate across key sectors, and drive sustainable and innovative projects.”
H.E. Mr. Di Bo, Deputy Mayor of Weifang City, added:
“We look forward to strengthening our partnership with TAAMEER in construction, high-tech industries, real estate development, and future MoU collaborations with other leading Weifang companies. We envision a future where Weifang’s expertise and products contribute to TAAMEER’s growth, fostering shared success and a brighter future.”
The delegation concluded the visit with a tour of TAAMEER’s new headquarters, showcasing the company’s modern facilities and forward-looking vision, reaffirming its position as a leading developer committed to building international partnerships based on trust, sustainability, and ambition.
TAAMEER continues to champion global collaborations that create value, foster innovation, and strengthen ties between Qatar and international partners.
Doha Festival City’s November Super Sale is back and filled with unmissable offers. From 27 to 29 November, the mall will host a weekend of incredible savings, exciting giveaways, extended hours and a lively shopping atmosphere. Whether you are refreshing your wardrobe, picking up gifts or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this is the shopping event to mark on your calendar.
Here is why you should not miss it:
1. Exclusive Offers from Your Favourite Brands
Get ready to shop more than 100 exciting Super Sale offers across fashion, beauty, lifestyle and dining. This year’s lineup includes deals from LEGO, Alo Yoga, Victoria’s Secret, New Balance, H&M, Johara, Call It Spring, Calvin Klein, Charles & Keith, Crocs, American Eagle, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Milano, MAC Cosmetics, Muji, NYX Cosmetics, Boots, Herschel, Aeropostale, Hunkemöller, Ikea, and Ray-Ban. These are just a few of the many brands taking part in the Super Sale. A full list of tenant offers is available on the website.
2. Late Night Shopping with Extended Hours
Enjoy extended mall operating hours from 12 AM to 4 AM on Friday, 28 November. Expect a lively atmosphere filled with random giveaways and energy throughout the night. This is late night shopping at its best.
3. Vox Pop Activation and QAR 20,000 Giveaways
Catch the vox pop activation from 12 AM to 4 AM live at Doha Festival City. During the live broadcast, 10 lucky winners every hour will be given gift cards with total value of QAR 20,000. This is the perfect chance to enjoy the celebrations and win at the same time.
4. Social Media Giveaways with Big Prizes worth QAR 50,000 Giveaways
Share your Super Sale haul between 27 and 29 November for a chance to be one of 20 winners of a QAR 2,500 Doha Festival City Gift Card. To enter, send a photo or video of your haul via DM to @dohafestcity on Instagram, share it on your Instagram Story, and tag @dohafestcity. More information on Doha Festival City’s Instagram.
5. Midnight to Morning Breakfast Offers
Take a break from shopping and enjoy special breakfast deals from 12 AM to 4 AM at: Yasmine Palace, Karafirin, Abajour, Monoprix, Black-out Coffee, Molten Chocolate, Carluccio’s, Aimee’s Café, Simit Sarayi and Tim Horton’s.
6. Mascot Parades with Voucher Surprises
Mascots will parade around the mall from 12 AM to 4 AM, adding a fun family vibe and handing out retailer vouchers & freebies.
Mark your calendars and get ready for one of the most exciting shopping weekends of the year at Doha Festival City. From exclusive offers to extended hours, giveaways and late night experiences, this Super Sale brings something for every shopper. For updates and full details, visit the Doha Festival City website or follow Doha Festival City on Instagram, X or Facebook.
Year-round service to enhance visitor accessibility through dedicated routes connecting key destinations to Old Doha Port
Old Doha Port has announced that its water shuttle service will now operate throughout all major upcoming events, following the remarkable success achieved during Qatar Boat Show 2025. This enhanced service will provide visitors with smooth, direct access to Old Doha Port via two designated departure points: Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha and The Pearl Island. The initiative reflects the strong collaboration between partners and ensures a seamless journey for guests travelling to the Port.
Across the four-day event, more than 1,500 passengers travelled by water to the heart of the show, enjoying a comfortable and efficient arrival experience. The water shuttle quickly became one of the standout features of Qatar Boat Show 2025, offering visitors an engaging and memorable way to experience Old Doha Port.
The expansion of the service reinforces Old Doha Port’s position as a world-class maritime destination that places visitor comfort at the forefront. By offering an innovative and effortless arrival experience, the Port continues to unite Qatar’s rich maritime heritage with its contemporary identity, strengthening the country’s standing as a global hub for tourism, culture, and marine innovation. This initiative forms part of a wider programme designed to enhance accessibility, elevate comfort, and uphold the highest standards of efficiency across all events hosted at the Port.
“At Old Doha Port, we are guided by a clear vision to provide innovative and forward-thinking services that elevate the visitor journey and contribute to the advancement of Qatar’s maritime and tourism sectors. The success of the water shuttle during Qatar Boat Show demonstrated the value of expanding access routes to the Port. We remain committed to further developing these services to ensure smoother movement and an enriched experience for all our guests.”
Building on this momentum, Old Doha Port is now developing the water shuttle into a sustainable, year-round service. An official tender will soon be issued to appoint a specialised marine transport operator to support winter-season visitors and ensure enhanced accessibility during major events. This step further advances the commitments shared during the press conference announcing Old Doha Port’s Calendar of Events for 2025–2026.
The expansion of the water shuttle marks a significant milestone in Old Doha Port’s growing legacy. It represents a transformative step that elevates visitor comfort, introduces new experiences, and strengthens the Port’s position as a premier destination for hosting major events throughout the year.
With more than 4,000 attendees, the opening day featured high-level plenaries and immersive learning experiences focused on the future of human-centered education
The World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), a global initiative of Qatar Foundation, launched the 12th edition of its flagship Summit today at Qatar National Convention Centre.
Held under the theme “Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education’,the opening day of the Summit brought together global education leaders, policymakers, innovators, and youth from more than 100 countries to explore how learning ecosystems can remain grounded in human purpose in an era shaped by rapid technological transformation.
The day began with a high-level plenary that examined how societies can navigate the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence in education. Speakers emphasized that while technology continues to accelerate at an unprecedented pace, it is ultimately human identity, creativity, emotional intelligence, and ethics that determine how innovation will shape future generations. The Humanity.io theme of the session, symbolizing the continuous exchange between human insight and technological output, anchored the day’s discussions and set the tone for the day’s program.
Continuing the day’s high-level engagements, the Ministerial Roundtable ‘Bridging the Divide: Financing Inclusive and Future-Ready Education’, led by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), convened senior government officials and global education leaders in a high-level dialogue on national education priorities and cross-sector collaboration.
Building on the momentum of cross-sector dialogue, ‘Bridging the Digital Divide: Scaling EdTech for Equity’, moderated by Niamh Whelan, Program Lead at WISE, examined global strategies to expand digital access and close technology-driven learning gaps. Speakers shared insights on building inclusive EdTech ecosystems, highlighting models that enhance connectivity, strengthen foundational skills, and ensure that learners in low-resource environments benefit equally from digital innovation.
Extending the focus to cultural and linguistic innovation, the Arabic-language session ‘Reading in the Age of AI: How Is Arabic Content Produced, Consumed, and Distributed?’ explored how AI is transforming the Arabic publishing ecosystem. Panelists discussed content creation trends, the future of digital reading, and the importance of strengthening regional platforms that preserve linguistic identity while embracing technological innovation.
Speakers examined why the Arab world is still not investing enough in developing its own AI systems, and highlighted several emerging solutions, platforms, and innovative approaches that support Arabic language learning and content production.
The session titled ‘Innovating Schooling: Towards a Progressive Schools Movement’ brought together leading voices shaping the future of learner-centered schooling. Participants looked into emerging models that prioritize creativity, student agency, community engagement, and holistic development across diverse education systems.
The session underscored how holistic education is ultimately about recentering the human being and reaffirming the deeper purpose of learning; and how it brings together spiritual, moral, and intellectual development, ensuring that every learner is equipped to help build a more compassionate and balanced world.
Closing the series of thematic conversations, the session ‘Fostering Collaboration among Global Education Platforms’ convened influential leaders shaping the future of international education ecosystems. Moderated by Dr. Asyia Kazmi, OBE, CEO Designate of WISE, the discussion featured insights on how global education platforms can break silos, accelerate innovation, and strengthen collaboration across continents especially in areas of digital learning, data-sharing, lifelong learning pathways, and cross-border knowledge exchange. The session spotlighted the importance of promoting education as a shared societal vision at a time when global advocacy for education is declining.
The WISE 12 Summit underscores WISE’s continued role as a global platform for reimagining the future of education. On its second day, participants continue discussions offering deeper insights into how education can adapt, collaborate, and scale meaningful change in an era shaped by rapid global shifts.
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, has called for a shared global commitment to “education that strengthens the values of truth, justice, and beauty” in the age of Artificial Intelligence, at the opening of the WISE 12 Summit.
The biennial international gathering of education expertise and innovation hosted by QF’s global education initiative WISE – the opening of which was attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, together with ministers and dignitaries – is advancing the conversation on education’s purpose, its role in serving humanity amid rapid technological progress, and how equity, empathy, and human dignity can remain at the core of its future transformation.
Opening the summit, Her Highness delivered a speech focusing on the value and human role of education, especially amid the rapid changes in the field of Artificial Intelligence, saying: “Here at the WISE Summit, we believe that education is not a public sector service like any other; instead, it is an indisputable and inalienable right. It is a fundamental pillar upon which humanity, justice and progress are built. Education should not be treated as a commodity, nor as a privilege, nor as a favor granted from one person to another.”
Her Highness continued:
“By placing human values at the heart of the educational process, we embark on a restoration project, both for science and for humanity: for science, by ensuring it does not become a force for harm; and for humanity, by reclaiming the essence of our humanity and dignity. Our shared commitment is an education that strengthens the values of truth, justice, and beauty, and our ultimate goal is a science in service to humanity – science that liberates, not enslaves.”
Under the theme ‘Humanity.io: Human Values at the Heart of Education’, WISE 12 has brought together leaders, policymakers, educators, innovators, and other education stakeholders from around the world to examine how bold but human-centered systemic changes can ensure education remains adaptable, accessible, and relevant for the learners and societies of the present and future.
During WISE 12’s opening session, Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, said:
“We meet in a world where technologies are accelerating to the point where they seem to outpace humanity itself, while in reality they are an extension of humanity’s constant quest for understanding. From this quest, ideas were born.
“From ideas, tools were made, and from these tools, the technology that we today consider a revolution was formed, which is essentially a reflection of the human mind in its attempt to understand, innovate, and leave its mark on this world.
“No matter how the world changes, the ability of nations to progress remains dependent on their ability to keep humanity at the heart of their vision and decisions. When humanity is our starting point and our goal, change becomes a field of expansion and growth, and transformations become opportunities that deepen knowledge and open doors to collaborative actions.”
The two-day summit at Qatar National Convention Centre is exploring key topics including the balance between innovation and culturally responsive approaches in today’s education systems; the integration of AI into K-12 education; innovative strategies in higher education and lifelong learning; advances in edtech; and education’s role in creating economic opportunity and strengthening communities.
Following a performance from Syrian singer-songwriter Faia Younan, who also reflected on being an artist in the age of AI, the opening session saw keynote speaker Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X and now a bestselling author, reflected on why education can be the point at which human values and the technological possibilities of AI align for the good of humanity.
And in a discussion with the opening plenary’s moderator, filmmaker and journalist Amjad Alnour, acclaimed Moroccan-American author Laila Lalami shared her thoughts on how education can safeguard human voices in a time when AI has become a storyteller itself; and intertwining art and education to preserve language, emotion, and empathy in a fast-moving, fast-changing world.
“Storytelling is at the heart of empathy and moral clarity,” Lalami told the audience. “As a species, we have never found a better way to deliver information than through stories.
“What I’ve found over the course of my career is the joy of being able to share with students how to read stories, how to break them down, find wisdom within them, and find what it is about stories that can help us to find moral clarity and improve our ethics.
“There is a lot about storytelling that can develop the mind. It can develop critical thinking ability in a way that learning a single subject can never do.”
As part of its growing commitment to environmental sustainability, community engagement, and wellbeing, IHG Hotels in Qatar has embarked on a multi-faceted collaboration with Earthna Centre for a Sustainable Future. This partnership reflects IHG’s dedication to supporting Qatar’s national sustainability agenda through meaningful, long-term initiatives that engage both colleagues and the wider community.
A central highlight of this partnership was an immersive visit to one of Qatar’s natural mangrove sites, conducted under Earthna’s Mangrove Stewardship Programme. The visit was led by Dr Aspa D. Chatziefthimiou, Earthna’s ecosystem expert and a key architect of the mangrove programme. Dr Aspa guided leaders from all seven IHG hotels through the ecological significance of mangroves and demonstrated the hands-on conservation activities essential to restoring and preserving these unique coastal ecosystems. Her presence, expertise, and passion were fundamental to shaping the collaboration and inspiring the teams’ commitment to long-term stewardship.
Participants learnt about seed collection, seedling cultivation, geo-tagging, transplantation, and restoration techniques, all reinforcing the role individuals can play in supporting Qatar’s environmental resilience. The collaboration extends beyond environmental conservation. As part of Qatar Sustainability Week 2025, IHG Qatar has already launched its first initiative: a Full Moon Yoga session hosted at InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa. The session aimed to promote mindfulness, wellness, and sustainable lifestyle choices among colleagues, reflecting IHG’s holistic approach to sustainability- one that balances environmental action with human wellbeing.
“Our partnership with Earthna marks the beginning of a long-term journey,”
said Mohamed Azakir, Area Director of Human Resources for IHG in Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain and currently based at InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa.
“From engaging our leaders in hands-on environmental conservation to promoting wellness through initiatives like our Full Moon Yoga session, we are committed to embedding sustainability into every layer of our culture. Dr Aspa’s leadership and the Earthna team’s guidance have been instrumental in shaping this vision.”
IHG Qatar has published a short video capturing the essence of the mangrove visit on IHG hotels’social media platforms.
With more initiatives planned for Qatar Sustainability Week 2025 and a shared vision for impactful, long-term environmental programmes, IHG Hotels & Resorts in Qatar, alongside Earthna, are building a partnership that aims to leave a lasting positive imprint on the community and ecosystem of Qatar.
IHG Qatar looks forward to expanding this promising collaboration with Earthna through long-term efforts that support conservation, education, and environmental stewardship across the country.
Bollywood has lost one of its most enduring and iconic stars. Dharmendra, the hugely popular actor, producer and former Member of Parliament, passed away on 24 November 2025 at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 89. His death marks the end of a monumental career that shaped Indian popular cinema for more than six decades.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, stating,
“The passing of Dharmendra Ji marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He was an iconic film personality, a phenomenal actor who brought charm and depth to every role he played.”
The actor had not been well recently and was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai before passing away peacefully just weeks before his 90th birthday.
A Storied Cinematic Career
Born on 8 December 1935 in Nasrali, Punjab, Dharmendra began his Bollywood journey with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere in 1960. Over a remarkable career, he appeared in more than 250 films spanning romantic dramas, comedies and action blockbusters, becoming one of the most respected figures in Indian cinema.
In the 1980s, Dharmendra starred in a series of successful action films that earned him the legendary nickname “He-Man”. His most iconic role remains the lovable rogue Veeru in the 1975 classic Sholay, a performance that continues to be celebrated across generations.
Beyond acting, he ventured into film production and supported the careers of his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, further strengthening the Deol family’s presence in Bollywood. He also served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009 and was honoured with one of India’s highest civilian awards, the Padma Bhushan, in 2012.
His final film appearance will be in Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis (Twenty-one), scheduled for release next month, making it a poignant final chapter in his legendary cinematic journey.
His Passing and Final Rites
Dharmendra had been hospitalised earlier in November at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital for respiratory issues and had been recovering at home. He passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday. His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, in the presence of his family and members of the Bollywood fraternity.
Why Dharmendra’s Legacy Endures
Dharmendra’s influence on Indian cinema remains unmatched due to his versatility and longevity. Few actors have transitioned so seamlessly from romantic hero to action superstar and eventually to powerful character roles across more than sixty years.
His dialogues, screen presence and timeless films continue to be a part of India’s cultural memory and are still being discovered by newer generations. Many contemporary actors cite him as a source of inspiration for his humility, dedication and powerful on-screen charisma.
Relevance for Indian Expatriates in Qatar and Globally
For Indians living in Qatar and across the Gulf, Dharmendra’s passing holds deep emotional significance. His films are an integral part of the shared cultural heritage of the Indian diaspora, often watched during family gatherings and streamed in homes abroad.
His death has become a moment for reflection on how cinema preserves identity across borders and generations. Cultural organisations, film clubs and community groups in Qatar are likely to honour his memory through film screenings, tribute events and social media commemorations.
His legacy highlights the importance of preserving classic Indian cinema for younger generations raised outside India, ensuring that the golden age of Bollywood continues to live on through storytelling and remembrance.
A Timeless Legacy
Dharmendra’s passing is more than the death of a legendary actor. It is the farewell to a golden era of Indian cinema whose impact transcended borders. From Mumbai to Qatar and beyond, his films continue to inspire, entertain and connect generations.
As long as his performances live on through screens and memories, Dharmendra will remain immortal in the hearts of Bollywood lovers worldwide.
