The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make history in the Middle East as it touches down in Qatar for the first time. On 22 November 2025, the lightweight showdown between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker will headline UFC Fight Night at the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena in Doha (ABHA Arena). Meanwhile, the co-main event features welterweights Belal Muhammad and Ian Machado Garry.With the region’s appetite for major sport events growing, this event marks a milestone for Qatar’s rising status as a global sports hub.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, 22 November 2025
Location: Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena (ABHA Arena), Doha, Qatar
Headliner: Arman Tsarukyan vs Dan Hooker (lightweight)
Co-main event: Belal Muhammad vs Ian Machado Garry (welterweight)
Broadcast: Prelims & main card on ESPN+ (US time zones)
It will be the first UFC show in Qatar, marking a major expansion for the promotion.
The main and co-main bouts carry serious title implications: Tsarukyan is making a return to contender status; Muhammad is aiming to climb back after his title loss.
The venue and timing (late 2025) position this as a key draw for MMA fans in the Middle East, and for international travelers alike.
What to expect: key fights
Tsarukyan vs Hooker
Arman Tsarukyan (22-3) is cemented among the UFC’s top lightweights and comes into this bout with serious intent. Dan Hooker (24-12), a seasoned veteran, brings a mix of experience and redemption. This fight could determine the next challenger in the lightweight division.
Muhammad vs Garry
Belal Muhammad (24-4) looks to rebound after his recent title setback, while Ian Machado Garry (16-1) is a rising star seeking his place at the top. Muhammad himself labelled the bout a “No. 1 contender fight”. Expect high stakes, high intensity.
Travel & attendance tips (for international fans)
Accommodation: Doha hotel rooms will fill quickly – book early, consider staying near West Bay or the Msheireb district for best access.
Venue access: Plan transport to the ABHA Arena in advance – look into the Qatar Metro or reliable rideshare services.
Tickets: Secure your seats via official vendors (verify via the UFC or trusted ticketing platforms) to avoid scalpers.
Time zone planning: For viewers outside Middle East, the event will be live at early morning hours in some regions (US times listed).
Local culture: Be mindful of Qatar’s local regulations and customs. Event-goers should check entry rules, bag policies, and travel requirements.
Doha isn’t just about luxury hotels and high-end shopping, the city and its surroundings are full of amazing free activities. From stunning beaches to historic sites, there’s plenty to explore without spending a riyal. Here’s our guide to the best free things to do in and around Doha:
Qatar boasts a long coastline, making swimming one of the most relaxing free activities. Sealine Beach, located about 45 minutes from Doha, is a favorite for both locals and tourists. While there are private areas with facilities, the public zones allow you to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea completely free.
2. Dune Bashing at Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)
For adventure seekers, the Inland Sea – Khor Al Adaid, is a natural wonder where the desert meets the ocean. If you have access to a 4×4, you can explore the dunes and witness breathtaking views. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection!
3. Musfur Sinkhole
Also known as the “Breathing Hole,” Musfur Sinkhole is a 100-meter-deep natural formation that is both eerie and beautiful. The underground area is naturally cooler, making it a perfect free escape even during Qatar’s summer heat.
4. Abandoned Fishing Villages: Al Jemail, Al Khuwair, and Al Areesh
History buffs will enjoy exploring the abandoned 19th-century fishing villages of Al Jemail, Al Khuwair, and Al Areesh. These villages offer a glimpse into Qatar’s past and are well worth the drive.
5. Al Gharrafa Park
Al Gharrafa Park is a hidden gem, featuring Doha’s first air-conditioned jogging track maintained at 26–28°C. It’s ideal for morning or evening runs in comfort, and perfect for a family outing.
6. Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings
For archaeology enthusiasts, the Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings are a must-see. This site features nearly 900 Neolithic petroglyphs, including ancient game boards carved into stone. It’s a fascinating window into Qatar’s distant past.
7. Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque
Qatar’s largest mosque, Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque, is open to visitors outside prayer times. With 93 stunning domes and grand architecture, it’s a peaceful place to explore. Modest dress is required; scarves and abayas are provided for women.
8. Qatar National Library
Qatar National Library is not just for book lovers, it’s an architectural marvel. Residents can join for free, but even tourists can explore the impressive space. Don’t miss the hidden book museum downstairs, a fascinating spot for curious visitors.
9. Education City Mosque
Located in Education City, this mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, adorned with Qur’anic verses and intricate calligraphy. Visiting just before sunset gives you the chance to see the building bathed in golden light, truly a photographer’s dream.
Whether you’re in Doha for a weekend or a longer stay, these free activities prove that you don’t need to spend big to experience the city’s best. From natural wonders to cultural treasures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The 14th edition of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo, happening on 16 January 2026, is set to be the largest marathon in Qatar’s history. With over 20,000 participants expected, this year’s event promises a lively atmosphere filled with excitement, energy, and activities for the entire family.
One of the highlights this year is the Blue Fun Run, a special race designed for children with autism, ensuring an inclusive experience for all young runners. Participants also have the chance to compete for QR 1 million in prizes, including two brand-new Toyota Prado 2026 vehicles up for grabs!
The marathon will start and finish at Hotel Park, with a scenic route along Doha’s iconic Corniche, offering runners a safe and picturesque experience while spectators enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
Early bird registration closes on 31 October, so secure your spot today and be part of Qatar’s biggest running event of the year. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or running for fun, the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo is the perfect opportunity to create your own race experience.
Excitement is building as Qatar prepares to welcome the world’s rising football stars for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025, taking place from 3 to 27 November 2025.
All matches leading up to the final will unfold across eight world-class pitches at Aspire Zone in Al Rayyan, located just 9 km from central Doha. These state-of-the-art facilities will serve as the stage where the next generation of football legends showcase their talent, determination, and passion for the game.
The final showdown will take place at the iconic Khalifa International Stadium, a venue renowned for its rich history and cutting-edge design, promising an unforgettable finale to the tournament.
Tickets are now available! Be part of the action and witness football’s future champions live in Qatar.
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is thrilled to announce that the famous facialist, Su-Man returns once again, to take up residency at The Ritz-Carlton SPA, Doha, from 8 to 12 and 14 to 17 November 2025. As a renowned skincare expert to legions of celebrities, beauty professionals and devotees, she is set to showcase her pioneering approach through a tailored selection of four signature treatments.
Blending her expertise in dance, Shiatsu, Pilates and oriental healing techniques, Su-Man has successfully choreographed the art of facial massage as a natural alternative to more invasive therapies. Focusing on the physical and emotional, her holistic treatments facilitate energy flow to restore glowing, beautiful skin, where the lifting effect encourages skin health and rejuvenation.
Su-Man will share four exclusive therapies during her residency at The Ritz-Carlton SPA, Doha, each personalized to the individual and targeting a specific need. The hands-on Skin Reborn Sculpting Facial activates and energizes face muscles through stimulating massage techniques, exfoliation and cleansing. This hour-long treatment gives instantly brighter, more sculpted skin. For a younger, more animated complexion, the Chi Flow Contour Facial is 60 minutes of contouring using a Gua Sha device, where meridian lines and pressure points encourage lymphatic drainage and dramatic definition.
Su-Man is at the forefront of ageless beauty and has a deep passion for innovation that she shares through each of her therapies, as seen in the ground-breaking Su-Man Digital Damage Resculpt Facial, a remedy for this era. Focusing on both the neck and face, it counteracts the negative effects of long hours spent staring at cellphones, using a combination of EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) alongside targeted massage to reduce the appearance of dropped jawline and loose skin. Another experience is inspired by the healing principles of traditional Chinese medicine, Bó Jīn. Su-Man Myofascial Facial Treatment uses a unique appliance to follow the meridian pathways and acupressure points to reawaken the skin and restore its luminosity.
This winter, Meryal Waterpark invites guests to step into a world of imagination, connection, and seasonal celebration with the launch of its first-ever Winter Mirage Fest. Running from 12 November 2025 until 15 February 2026, Sunday to Wednesday – 4:00pm to 10:00pm and Thursday to Saturday – 4:00pm to 12:00am, the festival
reimagines Qatar’s winter landscape by blending festive charm, adventure, and immersive entertainment for visitors of all ages. Nestled within the heart of Qetaifan Island North, Meryal Waterpark is widely recognised for its world-class attractions, record-breaking slides, and cultural storytelling. The Winter Mirage Fest continues this legacy by transforming the park into a winter-inspired destination that defies expectations and delivers moments of pure joy. The experience brings together an exciting variety of activities including arcade games, roller coaster, carnival games, arts & crafts, ice skating & sliding tubes, paintball arena, carousel, Inflata splash and F&B trucks. These attractions are paired with ambient lighting, seasonal music, and curated entertainment to create an atmosphere that feels both magical and meaningful.
Speaking on the launch, Stefano Capaccetti, Managing Director of Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, Meryal Waterpark, and Azure Beach Doha, shared:
“The Winter Mirage Fest represents our commitment to innovation and experience-led storytelling. At Meryal, we believe in creating not only thrilling adventures, but also emotional connections that stay with our guests long after their visit. This festival brings a fresh perspective to Qatar’s winter season and invites everyone to celebrate joy, togetherness, and imagination in a truly unique setting.”
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Meryal Waterpark, the Winter Mirage Fest promises an immersive celebration where families, friends, and guests of all ages can enjoy a season filled with wonder, joy, and unforgettable experiences, transforming the park into a truly unique winter escape by the sea. With the Winter Mirage Fest, Meryal Waterpark continues to solidify its position as a cultural and entertainment landmark in Qatar, delivering creative seasonal experiences that combine authenticity, storytelling, and world-class hospitality.
The Award Recognizes Six Exceptional Leaders for Advancing Excellence in Women’s Health
The View Hospital, in Affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, recently held “Innovations in Women’s Health” Symposium. The two-day event brought together more than 200 physicians, nurses, allied health, researchers and healthcare leaders from Qatar, the GCC and international medical institutions to share the latest advancements in women’s health and exchange expertise aimed at shaping future standards of care.
This year’s edition built on the momentum of the “Innovations” series with a comprehensive scientific program covering broad areas of women’s health. The symposium emphasized the role of innovation in improving clinical practices and highlighted the need to ensure equitable and compassionate healthcare for women globally.
As part of the symposium, The View Hospital presented the Women of Healing Champion Award, honouring six distinguished leaders for their extraordinary impact in healthcare. Dr. Mariam Ali Abdul Malik, Managing Director of PHCC, was recognized for her pioneering role in strengthening primary healthcare in Qatar. Dr. Ameena Jesaimani, Executive Director of Pharmacy at HMC, was recognized for advancing pharmacy practice and medication safety.
Dr. Noora Al Hammadi, Deputy CMO at NCCCR, was recognized for her leadership in oncology and cancer innovation. Dr. Amal Al Obaidli, Chairperson of Clinical Imaging at HMC, was recognized for transforming diagnostic imaging and championing early detection. Dr. Hadeel Al Ramli, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at The View Hospital, was honored for her compassionate, comprehensive care in women’s health.
Finally, Dr. Seungmin Kathy Lee, Consultant in Alternative Medicine at the Korean Medical Center, was recognized for integrating Korean traditional medicine with modern healthcare to advance holistic patient care.
These women embody the very essence of leadership, compassion and resilience. Their journeys reflect not only professional excellence but also a shared commitmentto breaking barriers, driving innovation and elevating the standards of care for women across Qatar and beyond.
Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul, Chief Executive Officer of The View Hospital, said:
“This symposium reflects our strong commitment to making women’s health a key part of building a healthier society. By bringing together experts from different fields, we are turning the latest research and technology into real improvements in patient care. Through our affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, we are proud to combine global expertise with local knowledge, ensuring that women in Qatar and the region receive the best in innovation and compassionate care.”
The symposium drew a distinguished gathering of international and regional experts, with Cedars-Sinai leaders addressing key topics such as the hormone journey from menarche to menopause, new perspectives on breast and gynecologic oncology, and advancements in endometriosis. They were joined by a strong regional and local presence alongside contributors from Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, Aspetar, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Qatar University, Al Emadi Hospital, West Bay Medicare and other leading institutions.
Reflecting the global spirit of the symposium, symposium cochair Dr. Harry Sax, Professor of Surgery and Associate Dean of International Academic Affairs and site Medical Director at Cedars-Sinai; noted, “Every time experts come together to share data, techniques, and outcomes, patient care moves forward. Women represent more than half of the global population, yet they remain underrepresented in clinical research and gender specific health care protocols. At Cedars-Sinai, we are strongly committed to advancing women’s health through specialized institutes such as the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center, and through pioneering work in breast health, obstetrics, gynecology, urology, genetics and longevity. Our affiliation with The View Hospital and this symposium exemplifies Qatar’s emergence as a hub for women’s health innovation, with insights that will elevate standards well beyond the region.”
The symposium also carried academic weight, granting participants 12.5 CPD points. This activity is an Accredited Group Learning Activity (Category 1) as defined by the Ministry of Public Health’s Department of Healthcare Professions – Accreditation Section and is approved for a maximum of 12.50 hours. Participants also received 10CME credits recognized by Cedars-Sinai in the United States.
In line with its commitment to advancing women’s health, The View Hospital has enhanced its Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, located on the fifth floor. The department combines world-class expertise with advanced diagnostics, monitoringsystems and specialized technologies, including the da Vinci robotic surgery system, laparoscopy, colposcopy and hysteroscopy. The hospital has also introduced a dedicated clinic for endometriosis and uterine fibroids, further positioning itself at the forefront of women’s health by providing cutting-edge solutions that improve outcomes and enhance quality of life.
The annual innovations symposium has now firmly established itself as a leading platform in the region’s medical calendar, bringing global expertise to Doha and reinforcing Qatar’s growing reputation for healthcare innovation and excellence.
In a region racing toward the super-app future, Qatar’s very own is emerging as a pioneering force, redefining what it means to deliver value, convenience, and community impact through technology. Launched in 2025, the company’s newest innovation, S5, marks a bold chapter in Snoonu’s growth, one that positions it firmly at the forefront of Qatar’s digital excellence.
Snoonu has chosen a different lane: build value first, then scale the vision. What began as a homegrown delivery app became a daily companion for millions of small decisions: what to eat, where to shop, how to save time. Today, that story turns a page with Snoonu 5.5; a release that doesn’t just add features, it connects a whole day’s worth of moments into one intelligent & convenient flow.
The idea is simple: one app, endless possibilities; rooted in Qatar, built for real life. Snoonu 5.5 ties together cinema bookings, smarter shopping, upgraded laundry, S+ premium perks, and Genie AI, the AI assistant that learns your rhythm. It’s the most tangible step yet in Snoonu’s evolution from a logistics player to a living ecosystem, where commerce, logistics, community, content, and finance reinforce each other instead of living in separate tabs.
Join us for a quick tour of what’s new in Snoonu 5.5 and see how it will reshape your everyday digital experience.
Life in Qatar is busy, and people don’t want to hop between multiple apps just to get through the day. Different logins, different wallets, too many steps. Snoonu 5.5 fixes that with one simple idea: less switching, more doing.
What’s new in 5.5 (and why you’ll feel the difference)
Only for 33qar / month and 300 qar /year (24% discount of the yearly plan)
Get endless free delivery on food, groceries, snoomart, pharmacies, gifting and by Snoonu (including electronics, beauty …) with terms and conditions applying
Genie AI (Your personalized Snoonu AI assistant) Meet Your Snoonu Chat-Helper:: Your smart adviser in Snoonu Market. Tell it what you’re trying to do, and it figures out what you actually need.
How it works: Tap the chat icon on Snoonu Market feeds (available for logged-in users) to start a conversation. You can ask your questions and get answers in any language, Our Genie AI understands and responds naturally, no matter what.
From “idea” to items: Skip scrolling and filters. Describe your situation and Genie AI curates the list for you; your wish becomes a checklist.
Skincare routine for sensitive skin? → Cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, and gentle extras.
Home workout essentials. → Mat, bands, dumbbells, bottle—ready to go.
New kitten necessities. → Litter, tray, food, bowls, carrier, toys.
Personalized picks: Uses your context (location, availability, preferences) to suggest in-stock items near you.
Seamless shopping: Add to cart or open product pages without leaving the chat.
Built-in safeguards: Filters sensitive/inappropriate requests where required.
In short: Tell Genie the goal; it does the searching, sorting, and shortlisting; for faster, clearer decisions.
Snoonu Cinema booking Open Snoonu, Go to SCity, pick your film, choose your seats, pay, done.
Seat selection and payment inside the app, plus exclusive deals. No queues, no app-hopping, no fuss.
Snoonu Laundry, upgraded Pick a pickup time, track the order, get it back at your door.
Snoonu Laundry 2.0 introduces a streamlined, user-friendly laundry ordering and tracking experience within the Snoonu app, focusing on transparency, automation, and minimal user input. Here are the main features:
Swift Order: No catalog. Just schedule pickup, hand over your laundry bag, choose “Wash & Press,” “Dry Clean,” or “Press Only,” and you’re done.
Clear pricing: See “Amount Pending” up front; get a push with the final total and itemized breakdown after sorting.
Easy payment: Pay by card or cash on delivery (Apple Pay/Google Pay coming soon).Live tracking: A dedicated widget shows your order’s status and ETA on the S-Laundry page.
Step-by-step updates: From Order Placed → Picking Up → In Cleaning → Ready for Delivery → Delivered, with push notifications at each stage.
More “you” on the home screen: We tailor restaurants and items to your tastes and location.
Quick picks: Popular items are front and center; promo picks are coming soon.
Smarter restaurant cards: Clearer info at a glance, with item previews rolling out soon.
Sort your way: Order by distance, delivery time, price, or rating.
Better filters: Cleaner icons and simpler logic to narrow choices fast (update coming).
Improved restaurant pages: Easier menus, clearer details; helping you decide and order faster.
Enhanced shopping Groceries, corner-store essentials, and more; now faster to find.
Deeper filters, saved lists, and a quicker checkout that brings more local merchants into one smooth experience.
The idea behind the launch
We built 5.5 around a clear promise: “One app. Endless possibilities.” Our creative platform. A Day Transformed, follows real, everyday moments: school run, office crunch, movie night, late-night snack. Home & Car Services, One App. More control.
Innovation: A modern, distinctly Qatari look with utility you feel.
Integration: Features work together (cinema + food + rides later), not in silos.
Intelligence: Personalization that helps, not hassles.
Convenience: Minutes saved add up to hours each week.
Value: Perks and subscriptions that pay for themselves.
Why it matters
This is bigger than “new features.” It’s about removing daily friction: a parent on the school run, a professional between meetings, a shop owner who needs reliable tools. It’s also about supporting local merchants and empowering couriers, so the whole ecosystem grows together.
Try it today
Update the app. Ask Genie for an idea. Book a cinema night in a few taps. Turn on Snoonu Plus if you order often. Schedule laundry pickup instead of a drive. Then tell us what saved you the most time; we’ll keep refining.
Snoonu 5.50. One app. Endless possibilities. From morning to midnight, we’ve got you.
Ten customers can win 20g 24-carat gold bars by placing orders worth QAR 75 or more between 15-19 October
talabat, the leading on-demand delivery platform in the MENA region, has launched its latest campaign, giving customers in Qatar another golden reason to shop on talabat mart this October.
Running from 15 to 19 October, customers who place an order worth QAR 75 or more on talabat mart will automatically enter a daily draw to win a 20g 24-carat gold bar. Ten lucky winners will be selected each day, with the full list of winners revealed on 20 October, bringing even more excitement to grocery shopping this month.
The first set of winners will be announced on Friday 17 October, and the second set will be revealed on Monday 20 October. Thursday, 16 October, will also mark Pro Deals Day, where customers can enjoy exclusive discounts up to 70% off across a wide range of items, from snacks and beverages to household essentials and more.
Ali Amjad, General Manager of talabat mart, stated:
“ At talabat mart, we are always looking for ways to make shopping more rewarding and exciting for our customers. This campaign is our way of adding a little extra sparkle to everyday grocery runs, giving everyone a chance to win big while enjoying great deals and convenience.”
Through this initiative, talabat mart continues to highlight its promise of value, reliability and convenience. Customers can participate by placing their grocery orders through talabat mart between 15 and 19 October.
Customers can download the talabat app via the IOS App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.
In a spectacular Gulf derby that had fans on the edge of their seats, Qatar triumphed over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) 2-1, officially qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
This marks a historic milestone, the first time Qatar has earned its spot through qualification rounds, not as hosts.
Following the historic victory, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, shared a heartfelt message celebrating the national team’s achievement:
“A thousand congratulations to our people and our national team for the victory and qualification for the World Cup. We are proud of this honorable sporting achievement, and we wish our team success in the 2026 tournament.”
The Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
Match Highlights: Qatar 2–1 UAE
The match at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium was electric, filled with intensity and emotion from start to finish.
Boualem Khoukhi opened the scoring for Qatar early in the second half, heading home a perfect Akram Afif free kick.
In the 74th minute, Pedro Miguel doubled the lead, another Afif-assisted header that sent Doha roaring.
Tarek Salman was sent off in the 89th minute, leaving Qatar down to 10 men.
🇦🇪 UAE pulled one back in stoppage time through Sultan Adil Alamiri, but the comeback came too late.
Final score: Qatar 2 – 1 UAE.
Qatar’s Road to FIFA World Cup 2026
This victory sealed Qatar’s position at the top of Group A in the AFC qualifiers, securing their direct ticket to the World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico.
It’s a proud moment for the nation and a testament to its football evolution since hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022. From world-class infrastructure to world-class performances, Qatar’s football story continues to rise.
UAE’s Heartbreak and Playoff Journey Ahead
Despite a solid performance, the UAE couldn’t capitalize on key chances. The loss means the Emirates will now enter the AFC playoff rounds and their last hope to reach the World Cup after a 35-year gap.
Across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, fans filled public screens and cafés. Many expressed heartbreak but remained hopeful, rallying behind their team with messages like “It’s not over yet.”
Fans’ Reactions Across the Gulf
Social media exploded as #QatarWins and #RoadTo2026 trended across X and Instagram.
Qatari fans celebrated with fireworks along Doha Corniche and in Lusail City.
UAE supporters voiced disappointment but praised the team’s fighting spirit.
Football lovers across the Gulf called it one of the best Gulf derbies in recent memory.
Match Stats Snapshot
Category
Qatar
UAE
Possession
54%
46%
Shots on Target
5
4
Fouls
12
9
Yellow Cards
3
2
Red Cards
1
0
Final Score
2
1
What’s Next?
With qualification confirmed, Qatar will begin preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026, focusing on maintaining top form on the international stage.
The UAE’s journey continues the upcoming playoff rounds will be their last chance to return to the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
Final Whistle
The Qatar vs UAE showdown wasn’t just about football it was about pride, resilience, and passion. For Qatar, it was redemption and reward. For the UAE, it was heartbreak with hope.
Either way,Gulf football is rising, and the world is watching.
