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Engineer Samira Al-Kandari: Expo Doha Represents an Opportunity to Learn From Other Nations’ Experiences, Collaborate, and Achieve Sustainability Goals Together

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On October 27, 2023, Engineer Samira Al-Kandari, the Commissioner General of Kuwait Pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha Horticulture, hosted a special tour of the pavilion with its slogan, “Towards Sustainability” serving as its guiding theme.

The tour featured the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including His Excellency Ambassador Badr Bin Omar Al Dafaa, the Commissioner General of Expo 2023 Doha; Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions Dimitri Kerkentzes; His Excellency Mr. Khalid Badr Al Mutairi, the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to the State of Qatar; and several other notable figures. The attendees explored the pavilion, where they were introduced to Kuwait’s initiatives in environmental awareness and sustainability.

Al-Kandari emphasized that Expo Doha offers an invaluable opportunity to learn from the experiences of countries in combating desertification, and the efforts of those who are concerned with the environment and agriculture. Furthermore, it provides insights into the latest technological advancements and expertise in this field, all of which contribute to addressing desertification and achieving the desired sustainability.

Al-Kandari highlighted the diligent efforts put into finalizing Kuwait Pavilion to ensure a prominent and impactful participation, effectively showcasing Kuwait’s contributions to horticulture and the fight against desertification. She stressed that the design of the pavilion was carefully thought out to exemplify Kuwait’s environmental initiatives and dedication.

The pavilion comprises two distinct buildings representing both historical and contemporary Kuwaiti symbols. It offers interactive activities for children, designated spaces for meetings and conferences, and a tranquil central corridor reminiscent of the peaceful atmosphere of Al Ahmadi Oasis. It also showcases several ongoing projects in Kuwait, including specialized workshops in collaboration with both governmental and private organizations, as well as the active involvement of Kuwaiti individuals passionate about Expo’s theme.

Al-Kandari emphasized the Kuwait Environment Public Authority’s commitment to raising awareness on environmental issues. She stressed that this aspect is no less important than any other, as it conveys accurate messages based on scientific facts to the public, especially to young people and future generations. The pavilion achieves this by organizing events that promote the idea of sustainability and the dissemination of environmental awareness, in line with its guiding slogan, “Towards Sustainability.”

Uber Uncovers Doha’s Top Visited Destinations for Summer 2023

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Doha, Qatar, 12 September 2023 – Gulf cities usually experience a slowdown in activities during the summer season,however, Doha seemed to have bucked the trend this year. Delving into realms of data, Uber has identified and compiled the most frequented places in the city that appear to have captured the attention of both residents and visitors alike this summer. The report also offers a fascinating glimpse of how Doha is positioning itself as a year-round destination.

To kick things off, during the months of June to August 2023, there was an impressive jump of nearly 40% in the volume of journeys at Hamad International Airport, in contrast to the corresponding period in the year 2022.

Shopping malls continue to be the preferred destinations in Doha, registering the highest count of trips according to the report. Notably among them, the Place Vendôme, inaugurated last year, experienced a 60% surge in Uber app request traffic this summer. High-end luxury malls like the Al Hazm and Mall of Qatar experienced a rise of 14% and 20% respectively.

In addition to the convenience of air-conditioned shopping malls, the sea also provided a welcome escape from the heat in Doha. Al Maha Island in Lusail, marked a total of 23,241 trips this summer, reaching its peak in June 2023 with 9632 trips, courtesy of the Eid Al Adha holidays. Doha’s prominent coastline beaches that opened in late 2022 witnessed a remarkable surge in numbers, with an impressive total of 31,400 trips between June and August of 2023.

Among the freshly inaugurated or revamped venues, such as the Mina District at the Old Doha Port and the Hamad Ports Visitor Centrewere a bustling hub of activities during the summer period. Responding to the remarkable surge in visitors during the Eid Al Adha holidays in June, the Hamad Port Visitors Center subsequently announced it would be operational all 7 days of the week. A popular tourist destination during FIFA 2022, the Mina District, continued to captivate visitors throughout the summer of 2023, marking an impressive uptick of nearly 200% compared to trips requested in the previous summer.

“These statistics underscore how Doha is increasingly becoming a year-round destination for visitors globally,” said Norhen Ali, Head of MENA Communications at Uber. “The surge in trips to the airport, the vitality of shopping malls, the attraction of Al Maha Island, and the cultural treasures of the Mina District attest to Doha’s enthusiasm for exploration regardless of the season. At Uber, we are humbled to play a part in connecting residents and visitors to these vibrant corners, enabling them to forge memorable experiences that define a Doha summer,” she added.

What is the best time to visit Qatar?

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Qatar, a sovereign state on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, experiences a dry, subtropical desert climate with hot and humid summers and low annual rainfall. The weather can be categorized into two main seasons: hot (May to October) and cool (December to February), with March, April, and November as transitional months.

The best time to visit Qatar is during the cool period from December to February when temperatures are mild, ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F). January is the coolest month with temperatures between 14°C (57°F) and 22°C (72°F). November and March are also pleasant with warmer temperatures. However, keep in mind that rainfall, though rare, can occur during this period in heavy cloudbursts and thunderstorms.

On the other hand, the hot period from May to October should be avoided due to intense heat, especially in July, where temperatures can reach as high as 50°C (122°F). After October, the weather starts to cool down gradually.

Qatar has little regional weather variation, but coastal areas may be slightly cooler than inland. Doha, the capital, being highly urbanized, may feel slightly hotter. Dressing in lightweight cotton and linen is recommended throughout the year, and a cardigan or jacket might be useful during cooler evenings. Women visitors don’t need to wear a hijab or abaya but should opt for loose-fitting cotton dresses that cover their shoulders and knees. Men should also dress modestly, and beachwear is acceptable only at hotel pools, not in public places.

Sombreros, an airbed, and a TV: Riders in Qatar make Uber’s Lost & Found Index of 2023 the most memorable of all

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Doha, Qatar, 7 June 2023  As we approach peak summer, a period that’s poised to be busy for travel, Uber is presenting its annual Lost & Found Index, a roundup of the most unique and commonly forgotten items left behind by passengers over the last year. Entering its seventh iteration across the MENA region, this report also sees Qatar making its much awaited debut. 

 

Given that the football tournament in Qatar dominated the world’s attention throughout November and December last year, the dates for most reported lost items also came about in those very months. The most commonly forgotten rider items in Qatar were the wallet, purses, phones and cameras, while the most bizarre items included a TV, an airbed, and Mexican Sombreros!

Take a look at the full list below, the findings do provide a fascinating peek into what people left behind! 

10 most commonly forgotten items

  1. Wallet / purse
  2. Clothing
  3. Phone / camera
  4. Backpack / bag / folders / box / luggage
  5. Headphones / speaker
  6. Jewelry / watch / make-up
  7. Keys
  8. Vape / e-cig
  9. Cash
  10. Phone charger

 Most forgetful dates

  1. 2022-12-02 
  2. 2022-11-27 
  3. 2022-12-01 
  4. 2022-11-28 
  5. 2022-11-25 

  Most forgetful times of day 

  1. 16:00:00
  2. 15:00:00
  3. 18:00:00

 Most forgetful days of the week

  1. Friday 
  2. Monday 
  3. Saturday 
  4. Sunday
  5. Thursday 
  6. Tuesday
  7. Wednesday 

Craziest Items

  1. Mexican Hats (Sombreros)
  2. TV
  3. Airbed

 

“Personal items left behind in any public transport can effectively spoil well-planned trips and outing plans. At Uber, we do not think the cost of forgetfulness should be so high as to scar the memories of your most sought after plans in any way. If you ever lost any item in a vehicle requested via the Uber app, all you have to do is follow the steps to retrieve it.  Your Uber experience doesn’t end the minute you step out of the vehicle. ” said Nasser Al-Sharshani, General Manager, Uber Qatar.

 

Each year, the Uber Lost & Found Index offers a snapshot of the items that riders tend to forget, both everyday objects and unique belongings. It also highlights the cities that have shown the highest rates of forgetfulness, the specific times of day and days of the week when items are most left behind, and, of course, provides helpful tips on retrieving lost items using the Uber app.

If you’re one of those people who left something behind, look no further than this video, which outlines the simple steps you can take the next time you leave something behind in your Uber. 

The best way to retrieve a lost item is to call the driver – but if you leave your phone itself, you can login to your account on a computer. Here’s what to do:

1.  Tap “Your Trips” and select the trip where you left something

2.  Scroll down and tap “Find lost item”

3.  Tap “Contact driver about a lost item”

4.  Scroll down and enter the phone number you would like to be contacted at. Tap submit.

5.  Your phone will ring and connect you directly with your driver’s mobile number.

6.  If your driver picks up and confirms that your item has been found, coordinate a mutually convenient time and place to meet for its return to you.

7.  If your driver doesn’t pick up, leave a detailed voicemail describing your item and the best way to contact you.

 

And if you lost your personal phone, and are unable to sign into the app you can be connected to support via webchat at the link here.

Qatar to host FIBA on 2027

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Its first ever FIBA world cup

FIBA

Following the success of the World Cup, Qatar is establishing a reputation as a major sports hub, and basketball is the latest sport to relocate to Doha.

The FIBA World Cup 2027 will be held in the entire city and will be hosted by the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF).

Since the already-built venues are only 30 minutes apart, fans will be able to watch multiple games on the same day, similar to the World Cup.

As the first FIBA flagship event to be held in this region of the world, it will introduce basketball to millions of people in the Middle East and contribute to the sport’s rising popularity.

The country’s connectivity, both domestically and internationally, is what sealed the deal for Qatar, according to FIBA, the sport’s international governing body.

Qatar has demonstrated its ability to offer guests excellent services with its direct flights to the majority of the potential participating countries, its cutting-edge infrastructure facilities, and its easily accessible public transportation network.
When the action gets underway in Qatar, FIBA President Hamane Niang said, “While we are all anticipating what we are sure will be another outstanding FIBA event, we will also enjoy the entire journey to Doha.

“The qualification path to the World Cup has been a great success since its introduction in 2017, and we will be ready once again to follow all the action.”

The Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia will co-host the 2018 FIBA World Cup, which will take place from Friday, August 25, to Sunday, September 10. Spain won the 2019 competition, which featured 32 teams and was held in China.

Shaun the Sheep in Qatar!
The theater show will take place in Lusail Multipurpose Hall in Qatar from 22 to 25 April 2023

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Join Shaun, Bitzer and his friends from the Flock for a spectacular adventure on Mossy Bottom Farm during this live stage show: “Shaun the Sheep – SAVE OUR TREE“ takingplace in Lusail Multipurpose Hall in Qatar from 22 to 25 April 2023. Tickets for all performances go on sale (12th April 2023)and can be purchased at (tickets.virginmegastore.me).

The “Shaun the Sheep – SAVE OUR TREE“ live show is brought to audiences by Qatar Tourism as part of its ‘Feel Eid in Qatar’ campaign, which offers residents and visitors a packed schedule of lively and friendly-friendly events over the Eid holiday to mark the joyous occasion. The one-of-a-kind show is a collaborative effort between Qatar Tourism in partnership with Aardman, brought to you by Zoom and produced by EventBox.

The show takes place in a cold winter on Mossy Bottom Farm.  Shaun, Bitzer and his friends from the Flock; Shirley, Timmy, Timmy’s Mum & Nuts; are having great fun playing around their favorite tree in the Sheep’s field. When the Farmer discovers Bitzer has used the last piece of firewood, he decides the tree has to go! The Sheep fear the worst, until they realize the Farmers unable to chop the tree down by himself.

However, the Farmer has a plan, and calls for help.  Will the Flock be able to save their beloved tree or will the Farmer and his villainous accomplice succeed in giving it the chop? 

“Shaun the Sheep – SAVE OUR TREE“, live show provides families with cherished memories as well as offering a great introduction to live theatre for kids. The performance is interactive, encouraging audiences to learn valuable life lessons. 

Event Schedule:

Date: 22 to 25 April 2023. 

Shows time: 5.20PM

Tickets on sale: (tickets.virginmegastore.me)

Qatar Unifies its Tourist Visa Processes Through Revamped Hayya Platform

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Qatar Tourism has launched the Hayya Platform in a new form, inviting tourists who currently need a visa to Qatar to enjoy the country’s famously warm Arabian hospitality and diverse touristic offering. 

Taking place with immediate effect, the launch of the well-known Hayya Platform – which allowed the entry of over a million visitors during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM tournament – and its application via smart phones, will become the single portal for all tourist and business visas to Qatar. This will unify visa processes for tourists, GCC residents and companions traveling with GCC citizens (whom are issued an ‘Authorisation Electronic Travel’ permit).

The latest development reflects Qatar’s keenness to continue its investment in the tourism sector, which forms an important pillar  to the economy, and reflects the longer-term strategic vision to position the country as the leading tourism destination in the region.

Tourists who require a visa to enter Qatar can apply through the Hayya Platform at www.hayya.qa, or through the application on their smartphones, and visit Doha, the Arab Tourism Capital of 2023. 

In addition, Hayya holders will enjoy seamless travel and connectivity into Qatar as Hayya will be enabled for e-gate entry at Hamad International Airport. For those entering Qatar via land at the Abu Samra border, the Hayya Platform will provide a pre-registration option for faster entry for vehicles, making the start of a weekend getaway or longer stay in Qatar even smoother and more enjoyable. 

For GCC nationals, the Platform provides an option to apply for an entry permit for companions. The Hayya Platform also provides further services that help round out a visitor’s stay, including maps, transportation options, offers and current events.

Commenting on the latest initiative, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said, “Qatar’s national tourism strategy seeks to welcome over six million visitors a year by 2030. Already, Qatar is considered the most open country in terms of visa facilitation in the Middle East and the 8th most open globally, with more than 95 nationalities granted visa on arrival. We are pleased that the latest developments will further cement Qatar’s position as a leading tourism destination and will provide the opportunity for even more travellers to experience the country’s truly unique touristic offering.”

From his part, Mr. Saeed Ali Al Kuwari, CEO of the Hayya Platform, commented: “The re-launch of the Haya Platform in its new form today is an extension of the strategic vision that the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy had previously developed, a vision that centres on the sustainable legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The launch represents a means by which we will truly sustain the legacy of the World Cup. Previously, the Hayya card allowed fans from around the world to enter Qatar to watch their favourite teams during the world’s biggest football event. Today, the Hayya Platform is the legacy which we build upon, inviting visitors from all corners of the earth to visit our country and enjoy its authenticity, history, culture, hospitality, natural beauty and much more.”

Following the unprecedented success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, Qatar has continued to welcome record-breaking numbers of tourists in the first quarter of this year. The country’s authentic culture, abundant natural beauty and world-class hospitality and leisure venues were experienced directly by international visitors during the world’s biggest sporting event late last year and witnessed by billions more remotely. 

Visitors to Qatar will be privy to Qatar’s recently expanded hospitality and leisure landscape, which includes beaches and resorts, such as Fuwairit Kite Beach with its pristine shores and serene waters, and West Bay Beach, which has been developed in the heart of the city. In addition, families can enjoy premium shopping and dining destinations such as Printemps and Place Vendôme, world-class museums including the National Museum of Qatar and the recently re-opened Museum of Islamic Art, all while selecting their stay from a collection of newly opened and industry-leading international and home-grown hotels including The Ned Doha, Raffles and Fairmont Doha and The Outpost at Al Barari.

Debs w Remman Doha celebrates the lead-up to Ramadan with the launch of a special menu

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Lebanese cuisine enthusiast will enjoy sumptuous dishes that suit all palates during Ramadan

Debs w Remman, the award-winning Lebanese restaurant, is proud to announce the launch of its Iftar menu to celebrate the best of Lebanese cuisine during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
As Ramadan approaches, the Lebanese restaurant will allow those who are fasting during the Holy Month to indulge in mouth-watering dishes designed within a carefully curated Iftar menu. From sublime mezze platters to savory main courses to savory desserts, Debs w Remman has a lot to offer during this special month.
“We hope we can give those who are fasting during Ramadan in Doha an unmissable Iftar experience here at Debs and Remman”, said Carine Nehme Kassis, Marketing Director of Aura Group. She added: “We are more than pleased to bring authentic Lebanese flavors to those who are interested in this rich culinary cuisine and let them immerse in delectable treats in Doha.”
Debs w Remman will be open daily for Iftar starting at QAR 180 per person, throughout the holy month of Ramadan.
To enjoy Debs W Remman visit us at Mall of Qatar or The Pearl Qatar, Medina Centrale
For more information and to book a spot, contact us at:

MOQ +974 50001614
Madina Central +974 33334663
follow Debs w Remman’s Instagram account: @debs_w_remman

Packed Schedule of Family-Friendly Fun and Restaurant Offers Available on the Ramadan Edition of Qatar Calendar

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Read on for more information on the varied, continuous, and family-friendly line-up of Ramadan 2023 events.  

Savour Delicious Iftars & Suhoors 

March 23 – April 20 

Many of Qatar’s best-loved hotels will be hosting sumptuous Iftar and Suhoor feasts throughout the month of Ramadan. An opulent dining experience in the vibrantly colourful Sultan’s Tent is available for guests of the W Doha. Visitors can hire stylish private majilis at The Ned Doha, and diners heading to the Mondrian Doha can experience the magic of Ramadan in the hotel’s feted Wonderland tent. 

Al fresco diners are also in for a treat. The Iftar and Suhoor offering at the Katara Towers Terrace at Raffles Doha will see guests treated to magnificent views of Lusail and the Arabian Sea, while Al Messila Resort & Spa’s daily spreads will take place in the resort’s beautiful Scented Garden.  

Staycations During Ramadan  

Find a quiet place to retreat during this peaceful time and stay at the Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, a range of offers are available, which include Iftar, Suhoor and water park. The Ritz-Carlton Doha packages including a one-night stay in a luxury suite or room, and an Iftar buffet for up to two adults.  

March 23 – April 21 

Residents and visitors can enjoy a world of family-friendly fun throughout the month. On April 5, Tawar Mall’s famous Garangao evening will offer live Arabic music, and a range of creative activities for the little ones. 

 

In Katara Cultural Village, a variety of lectures, exhibitions and cultural events will be on offer, including the Qatar Artists Exhibition 2023, where some of the country’s most talented artists will showcase their work.  

 

Shoppers can also enjoy the vibrant authentic Ramadan ambience in Msheireb Downtown Doha and Lusail Boulevard, where various seasonal activities will be taking place.  

 

Revel in Eid Festivities 

April 16 – 30 

As we approach the end of the month, residents and visitors will begin to feel the festive Eid atmosphere. Mega Park Carnival in Al Bidda Park will offer 15 days of fun with around 250 different vendors providing everything from games, restaurants, shows and a dedicated area for the Mega Park Theatre.

BILLIONAIRE DOHA CONTINUES TO SHINE IN THE LIMELIGHT WITH ITS RENOWNED ITALIAN AND NEW ASIAN RESTAURANT, WHICH HOSTS THE FIRST AND ONLY LUXURY DINNER-SHOW CONCEPT IN QATAR.

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● Billionaire is home to Doha’s first and only dinner-show concept that is hosted at the venue’s world-class Italian and New Asian restaurant.

● World-class cuisine is complemented by show-stopping performances by renowned artists, musicians, dancers, acrobats and more magnificent talents. 

● Billionaire is the brainchild of Italian entrepreneur and former F1 boss Flavio Briatore. 

● The Billionaire brand already has venues in Porto Cervo, Dubai, and Riyadh to name but a few destinations where it continues to attract the most exclusive guests. 

● Hospitality and food service chain, Aura Group, opened the first location of the highly-reputed Billionaire restaurant on Al Maha Island as part of its commitment to enhancing the country’s culinary offerings and expanding fine dining options in Qatar.

Billionaire Doha

DOHA, QATAR, MARCH 2023: Billionaire Doha, home to Qatar’s first and only dinner show concept, continues to elevate the country’s dining and entertainment scene, inviting guests to an electrifying and theatrical experience of spectacular performances and masterfully-created food every night.

A stylish location that guarantees variety, bringing you the best of musical, acrobatic, and cultural experiences, and theme nights from around the world, Billionaire Doha has also quickly become a celebrity hotspot and crowd favourite for superstar guests, residents, expats, locals, and tourists alike. 

Billionaire has hosted the most prominent icons through its worldwide venues, including supermodel and philanthropist Naomi Campbell, model, TV host and businesswoman Heidi Klum, and luxury fashion designer Valentino Garavani, to name but a few. 

In the grandeur surroundings of the venue’s signature Italian and contemporary New-Asian restaurant, guests can enjoy breath-taking shows by a world-class cast of skillful artists, musicians, entertainers, dancers, singers, and acrobats – all handpicked and choreographed by Billionaire’s Creative Director.

Curated by Executive Chef Batuhan Piatti, a blend of signature Italian and modern New-Asian dishes, and the finest beverages Doha has to offer, light up diners’ taste buds. Immersed in the interactive and surreal show that drives this distinct dining experience, Billionaire has fast become the choice of venue for distinct and exclusive celebrations too.

Since 1998, when former F1 supremo Flavio Briatore opened the first Billionaire in Porto Cervo – which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year – the brand has cemented itself as an icon of quality entertainment. With Briatore at the helm, Billionaire has grown exponentially and, today, it is synonymous with glamour, creativity, and exceptional food. 

In its conception days, Briatore wished to create a nightclub that could bring back the allure and buzz to Costa Smeralda, tantamount with the Italian dolce vita. With intuition, vision, and sharp business sense, Briatore established a venue that quickly became a favourite destination amongst the international jet setting crowd too.

The bold name chosen by Briatore is because, in his own words: ‘even if a bit arrogant… it’s a name you don’t forget’ and the nightclub’s fame soon turned Billionaire into a prestigious brand renowned for its outstanding service, excellent music and entertainment in an exhilarating atmosphere. So much so that the world’s most legendary names and prominent figures frequent Billionaire venues around the world.

Where delicious food meets thrilling performances, Billionaire Doha is the place to be when the sun goes down. Groups of friends gather to mark monumental occasions in ancaptivating and opulent setting, whilst tapping into authentic Italian and New-Asian cuisine, receiving world-class service, and enjoying a stunning Billionaire show. 

Exclusively on the Billionaire stage, the daily shows are themed on great musicians, including tributes to Elvis, Queen, MJ, Stevie Wonder, and more. For the sophisticated female clientele, there’s a dedicated “Billionaire and the City”, where ladies get complimentary drinks, selection of bubbles, grape and muddled drinks every Monday. 

Furthermore, Billionaire has partnered up with an exclusive designer brand to offer one lucky lady the chance of winning a select piece from one of their collections. In return, there is a showcase of the brand at the main reception at Billionaire Doha on that evening.

Guests are enveloped in an evening that sets the bar high by constantly changing special displays, lighting, and colours, as well as delectable food designed to satisfy everyone. 

An easy and natural interaction and flow between Billionaire’s food and the extraordinary show, alongside the venue playing host to some of the best and most memorable evenings, is enough reason to recognise that the team at Billionaire really have earned their status as the true Masters of Extravaganza.