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4 Reasons to Celebrate Garangao in Qatar at Doha Festival City

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4 Reasons to Celebrate Garangao in Qatar at Doha Festival City

Garangao is one of Ramadan’s most cherished traditions in Qatar, bringing joy and excitement to children and families alike. This year, Doha Festival City, Qatar’s destination for unforgettable experiences and community gatherings, together with Tarsheed (Kahramaa), is hosting special Garangao activities from 8 to 10pm on March 13, 14 and 15, offering an unforgettable cultural experience hosted at the Entertainment Node. Here’s why your family shouldn’t miss it! 

1. Free Garangao Giveaways Every Day!

What’s Garangao without treats? Tarsheed will be distributing 200 Garangao boxes each day, ensuring that every child leaves with a traditional treat of sweets and nuts. The excitement continues with Doha Festival City giving away 20 Monopoly games Qatar edition daily to lucky winners of the storytelling Q&A!

2. A Magical Cultural Experience for Children

Garangao is a uniquely Gulf tradition celebrated on the 14th night of Ramadan, where children dress in colorful traditional attire, sing the Garangao song, and receive treats. At Doha Festival City, your little ones can immerse themselves in this heritage through storytelling, interactive activities, and festive giveaways. 

3. A Perfect Family Outing After Iftar 

Running from 8 PM to 10 PM, following prayer time, this event offers families an ideal way to immerse themselves in the festive spirit of the holy month.

4. Celebrate Ramadan in a Vibrant Atmosphere 

Doha Festival City is the place to be during Ramadan, with stunning decorations, festive lighting, and a lively community spirit. Whether you’re a resident or visiting Qatar, this event is a fantastic way to connect with local traditions and create special memories with your loved ones.

Don’t miss out on this enchanting three-day Garangao celebration—bring your family and join the fun at Doha Festival City!For more on the latest events, offers, and experiences visit the Doha Festival City website or follow Doha Festival City on Instagram, X or Facebook

Mufti Menk Returns to Qatar for a Special Ramadan 2025 Lecture

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Mufti Menk Returns to Qatar for a Special Ramadan 2025 Lecture

Renowned Islamic scholar Mufti Menk is set to return to Qatar for a highly anticipated Ramadan lecture on March 15, 2025. Taking place at the Ceremonial Court in Education City, this special event will begin at 10:00 PM after Taraweeh prayers.

The lecture will focus on the profound significance of Laylatul Qadr, offering attendees a night of spiritual reflection and enlightenment. Mufti Menk’s insightful talks have captivated audiences worldwide, and this event promises to be a powerful opportunity for the community to deepen their faith and understanding during the blessed month of Ramadan.

Admission is free, but registration is required to attend. This event, hosted in collaboration with Qatar Foundation, highlights the country’s commitment to fostering knowledge, unity, and spiritual growth.

Don’t miss this inspiring gathering – secure your spot and be part of an unforgettable night of wisdom and reflection.

Registering link – Here

Lusail International Circuit Announces Public Track and Cycling Days

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Lusail International Circuit Announces Public Track and Cycling Days

Experience Qatar’s Premier Motorsport Destination At the Speed of Lights

Lusail International Circuit (LIC), Qatar’s iconic motorsport and entertainment venue, is pleased to announce its upcoming community activities. The Ramadan schedule for track and cycling day is live. Motorsport enthusiasts can now experience the thrill of driving on the same iconic 5.38km circuit that hosts Formula 1®, MotoGP™, and World Endurance Championship.

Car Track Days: Steer the Circuit

Lusail International Circuit invites driving enthusiasts to experience the professional racing environment on Thursday, March 20th. Participants will have the opportunity to drive on the same circuit that hosts Formula 1® and WEC events, with expert supervision in a controlled setting.

The event will run from 7:30 PM to 11:45 PM, with check-in at Pit Box 50. For safety purposes, participants will be divided into two groups, each receiving three 20-minute sessions totaling one hour of track time.

Entry fees for night time track access are set at 900 QAR per vehicle, with an additional 250 QAR for passengers, stay tuned for pricing information for day time access.

Advanced registration is required through the official portal at https://members.lcsc.qa/.

Motorcycle Track Days: Lean the 16

LIC will host a motorcycle track event on Friday, March 21st, offering riders the opportunity to navigate all 16 turns of the circuit that is a regular fixture on the MotoGP™ calendar. Having been home to MotoGP™ since 2004, the circuit provides an exceptional environment for riders to refine their technique on the same track used by the world’s best riders.

The event will operate from 7:30 PM to 11:45 PM, with check-in procedures at Pit Box 50. Participants will benefit from professional guidance which will see them being divided into two groups, each receiving three 20-minute sessions totalling one hour of track time. 

Entry is priced at 900 QAR per motorcycle for night time sessions. stay tuned for pricing information for  day time access.   

Prior registration through https://members.lcsc.qa/ is mandatory for participation. 


Cycling Days

In partnership with the Qatar Cycle Federation, Lusail International circuit will be opening its doors to cycling enthusiasts. The circuit will host:

  • Mixed Cycling Day: Saturday, 15 March 2025 from 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM 
  • QCF-LIC Ramadan Cycling Individual Time Trial, Saturday, 15 March 2025 from 9:00 PM 
  • Ladies Cycling Day: Tuesday, 25 March 2025  from 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM 

Participants must present their Qatar ID for on-site registration. 


Following the Mixed Training Day activities on March 15th, participants are invited to stay for the QCF-LIC Ramadan Cycling Individual Time Trial competition beginning at 9:00 PM. This competitive event will determine the fastest cyclist at Lusail International Circuit. Those interested can register here.

For more information or updates, https://sites.google.com/view/qcfroadracing/events/s24-25/ramadan/march15-itt contact us on any of the following:

Doha Oasis Expands Its Luxury Portfolio with the Acquisition of Ever Fashion Luxury Group

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Doha Oasis Expands Its Luxury Portfolio with the Acquisition of Ever Fashion Luxury Group

Doha Oasis, Qatar’s premier destination for luxury shopping and entertainment, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Ever Fashion Luxury Group, further enhancing its standing as the ultimate luxury retail destination in the Middle East. This acquisition brings an exceptional array of over 26 prestigious international fashion brands to Doha Oasis, including Dolce & Gabbana, Rimowa, Jimmy Choo and, among others, offering an unparalleled shopping experience to its discerning clientele.

A New Era of Luxury Shopping

Doha Oasis destination, already home to an exclusive selection of some of the most prestigious brands in the world, continues to redefine the luxury shopping experience in Qatar and beyond. With the integration of Ever Fashion Luxury Group’s distinguished portfolio into Doha Oasis, customers can look forward to an even more diverse and exclusive selection of luxury products.

“We are thrilled to expand our luxury offerings with the acquisition of Ever Fashion Luxury Group. This union allows us to provide our clients with an unmatched selection of the world’s most recognized brands, all within the refined setting of our destination,” said Victor Agha, Chairman of Doha Oasis.

Distinctive Brands, Unified Portfolio

Representing a carefully curated portfolio of over 26 international brands, Ever Fashion Luxury Group has set the benchmark for luxury retail in Qatar since 2010. As the brands under Ever Fashion remain distinct entities, Doha Oasis aligns with the vision of these prestigious brands into its luxurious environment, ensuring that each brand retains its unique identity while contributing to an enhanced overall experience for shoppers.

“Joining Doha Oasis is a significant milestone for Ever Fashion Luxury Group. Our shared commitment to luxury and excellence ensures that our customers will continue to enjoy the highest standards of service and exclusivity,” said Feras Al Yassin Founder of Ever Fashion Luxury Group.

Bridging Tradition and Modernity

Located at the heart of Doha, Doha Oasis serves as a bridge between Qatar’s rich cultural heritage and its modern luxury aspirations. This acquisition highlights Doha Oasis’s role as a key player in the luxury retail landscape, offering experiences that honor the past while embracing the future in its unique destination setting.

Discover Enhanced Luxury Offerings

With this exciting development, Doha Oasis will soon unveil new and enhanced luxury experiences for its valued customers. This acquisition represents a significant step forward in luxury retail, offering an expanded range of high-end brands and services that cater to the discerning tastes of luxury consumers. Discover more about our destination at dohaoasis.com or on our social media pages: Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

Doha Festival City teams up with Qatar Charity and Orphan Care Center Dreama for its heartwarming Festival Cares initiatives this Ramadan

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Doha Festival City teams up with Qatar Charity and Orphan Care Center Dreama for its heartwarming Festival Cares initiatives this Ramadan

Qatar’s Most Bustling Mall Brings the Spirit of Giving to Life, with Charity Initiatives, Festive Activities, and Exclusive Ramadan Experiences

Doha Festival City, Qatar destination for fashion, community, and sustainability, is embracing the season’s values of giving, togetherness, and celebration through its Festival Cares year-long program to give back to the community. This Ramadan, the mall is launching two impactful initiatives—the ‘Branches of Kindness’ initiative in partnership with Qatar Charity and a special Ramadan experience for the children of Dreama Orphan Care Center, — alongside a diverse calendar of Ramadan family activities, exclusive shopping offers, and special Iftar experiences.

“Ramadan is a time for unity, generosity, and reflection, and at Doha Festival City, we are honored to create meaningful initiatives that bring the community together,” said Christopher Barton, Director – Asset Management, Qatar, Al-Futtaim Real Estate. “Through our partnerships with Qatar Charity and Dreama, we are reinforcing our commitment to Festival Cares, our corporate social responsibility program, while offering visitors an engaging and festive Ramadan experience.”


The ‘Branches of Kindness’ initiative, located at Center Court throughout Ramadan, invites visitors to contribute to Qatar Charity’s Giving Lives On campaign, which supports 4.5 million people in need across 40 countries. Each branch’s gift request tag placed on an enchanted tree structure represents a charitable cause, including orphan sponsorship, Ramadan food aid, humanitarian assistance for patients, those with no income, the elderly, debtors, and Iftar programs in Qatar. Shoppers can scan the QR code on the tree to make direct donations via the Qatar Charity app. (qch.qa/appen).

“At Qatar Charity, we believe that every act of kindness can create lasting change. We thank Doha Festival City for the ‘Branches of Kindness’ initiative that provides a powerful opportunity for the community to participate in charitable giving during Ramadan,” said Mr. Ali Ibrahem AlGreeb, Resource Development Manager at Qatar Charity. “With just a few taps, visitors can fulfill a wish and make a real difference. We also call on other companies and organizations to support our Ramadan Campaign, ‘Giving Lives On’ to maximize our impact for underprivileged communities this blessed month globally.”

As part of its community outreach, Festival Cares is hosting children from Dreama Orphan Care Center for two special Ramadan experiences. Taking place on March 5 and March 25, the children will enjoy a fun-filled day at Angry Birds World, followed by a warm Iftar meal at IKEA. To commemorate the occasion, each child will receive a Monopoly game, sponsored by Doha Festival City, and a reading package from Qatar Reads and Qatar National Library.

“At Dreama, we are committed to creating enriching experiences that bring happiness and a sense of belonging to our children,” said Munira Al-Boloshi, Director of Communication and Media, Dreama Orphan Care Center. “Through our collaboration with Doha Festival City, we are offering the children not just a fun day out, but a meaningful opportunity to engage, learn, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan.”

The mall will also celebrate Garangao, a cherished Qatari tradition, with a three-day event from March 13 to 15 at the Entertainment Node, in collaboration with Tarsheed (KAHRAMAA). The program will feature storytelling, cultural games, and interactive activities, bringing joy to children and families while honoring local heritage.

Beyond its charity initiatives, Doha Festival City is offering a rich lineup of Ramadan experiences. Visitors can explore exclusive shopping offers across fashion, beauty, and home décor from top retailers such as Harvey Nichols, IKEA, and Charlotte Tilbury. For Iftar, guests can indulge in specially crafted menus and buffets at some of Doha’s most popular dining destinations, including Garden by Belgravia, Asha’s, and Yasmine Palace.

Families can also enjoy special entertainment offers, including an unlimited play pass at Angry Birds World for QAR 149, applicable to all rides except Slingshot, Karting, and skill-based games, and a Ramadan deal at Snow Dunes for QAR 99.For more information on Doha Festival City’s Ramadan activities and special offers, follow us on social media or visit their website.

The View Hospital Sets New Standards with Groundbreaking ‘Innovations in Robotic Surgery’ Symposium in Doha

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The View Hospital Sets New Standards with Groundbreaking ‘Innovations in Robotic Surgery’ Symposium in Doha

Healthcare professionals from around the world gathered in the Qatari capital to explore the future of robotic-assisted surgery.

The View Hospital, in affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, a top-ranked U.S. hospital, has successfully concluded the second edition of its highly anticipated annual symposium, “Innovations in Robotic Surgery,” held on February 21-22, 2025, at the iconic Equestrian Club in Doha. 

The symposium brought together a powerhouse of international and regional medical experts, delivering transformative discussions, pioneering innovations, and groundbreaking advancements in robotic-assisted surgical techniques. The event elevated Qatar’s healthcare narrative and underscored its growing prominence on the global medical stage.

Building upon the resounding success of its inaugural edition, this year’s symposium captivated participants with intellectually stimulating sessions across diverse specialties, including general surgery, urology, thoracic surgery, bariatric surgery, gastroenterology, and women’s health. Attendees experienced firsthand the revolutionary capabilities of robotic technologies, engaging in discussions that illuminated how robotics is reshaping precision, safety, and outcomes in modern surgical practices.

The event’s global significance was epitomized by its distinguished lineup of speakers. Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul, Chief Executive Officer of The View Hospital, shared: “The second edition of our symposium is more than just a medical event; it is a bold statement of our commitment to revolutionizing healthcare in Qatar and beyond. Robotic surgery embodies the future of medicine, combining unparalleled precision, efficiency, and patient safety.   Our partnership with Cedars-Sinai is a cornerstone of our research-based approach, seamlessly integrating global expertise and cutting-edge innovation to redefine excellence in patient care at The View Hospital.”  

Dr. Harry Sax, Professor and Executive Vice Chair of Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, said: “This symposium is a testament to the transformative power of international collaboration. The synergy between Cedars-Sinai and The View Hospital, an institution rapidly establishing itself as a hub for medical research and innovation in Qatar, is paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in robotic-assisted surgery. Each discussion, each breakthrough shared here, not only translates into more lives saved and better care globally but also highlights Qatar’s growing role as a center of excellence in healthcare. We believe that knowledge shared is power multiplied, and this annual symposium exemplifies that philosophy.”

Among the distinguished speakers were experts from Cedars-Sinai, including Dr. Harmik Soukiasian on thoracic surgery advancements, Dr. Srinivas Gaddam on pancreatic cancer detection, and Dr. Karyn S. Eilber and Dr. Kulmeet K. Sandhu on robotic pelvic floor and bariatric procedures. The View Hospital was represented by Dr. Radwan Kassir, Dr. Ihab Abutabanjeh, Dr. Wael Al-Saydali, and Dr. Jassim Fakhro, who shared insights on bariatric, urology, and robotic surgical integration. Contributions from Qatar University included Dr. Susu Zughaier and Dr. Zumin Shi, discussing microbiota research and post-bariatric advancements. Dr. Sama Abdulrazzaq Asal from Hamad Medical Corporation addressed robotic obesity management. Additional regional insights were provided by Dr. Kubilay Ertan of West Bay Medicare on robotic gynecology and Dr. Raed Anwar Azhar of Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital on urological oncology. Nathan Nagel, CEO of the Global Robotic-Assisted Surgery Platform, explored future trends in robotic surgery education.

The symposium was honored by the presence of His Excellency Timmy T. Davis, U.S. Ambassador to Qatar, whose attendance highlighted the essential role of international relations in fostering global healthcare innovation. His presence reflected the strengthening ties between Qatar and the United States, and the two nations’ shared commitment to advancing medical progress and collaborative excellence.

Notably, the symposium provided attendees with 6.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits, highlighting its value as a leading educational opportunity for surgical professionals

Doha Festival City Brings the Spirit of Giving to Life, with Charity Initiatives, Festive Activities, and Exclusive Ramadan Experiences

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Doha Festival City Brings the Spirit of Giving to Life, with Charity Initiatives, Festive Activities, and Exclusive Ramadan Experiences

Step into the spirit of Ramadan at Doha Festival City, where every visit brings joy and unforgettable moments. Under its Ramadan from the Heart initiative, the mall transforms into a vibrant hub of community and celebration, offering immersive cultural festivities, heartwarming charity initiatives, exclusive shopping, and delicious Iftars. Whether you’re embracing the joy of giving back to the community, making cherished family memories, or discovering beautifully curated Ramadan collections, Doha Festival City is the ultimate destination to experience the season in a truly special way.

Here’s everything you can look forward to this Ramadan:

  1. The Branches of Kindness 

Center Court | Throughout Ramadan

Giving is at the heart of Ramadan, and this year, Doha Festival City partners with Qatar Charity to bring the Branches of Kindness. Each wish-tag carries a message from Qatar Charity’s Giving Lives On campaign, which supports 4.5 million people in need across 40 countries. Visitors can scan the QR code to make a little child’s gift wish come true directly through the Qatar Charity app, making it easier than ever to give back.

  1. Garangao Kids Activities

Entertainment Node | March 13, 14, 15

Doha Festival City celebrates the beloved Garangao tradition with three days of family-friendly fun in partnership with Tarsheed, run by KAHRAMAA. Children can enjoy interactive activities, storytelling sessions, and cultural experiences, bringing the spirit of this cherished mid-Ramadan tradition to life.

  1. Exclusive Ramadan Shopping and Offers

Across Participating Retailers | Throughout Ramadan

Doha Festival City is home to Qatar’s most sought-after fashion, beauty, and home décor brands, offering exclusive collections and promotions throughout Ramadan. Whether you’re looking for modest fashion, stylish Eid outfits, thoughtful gifts, or elegant home décor, you’ll find everything under one roof. 

✨ Modest Fashion & Eid Outfits: Louzan, Al Motahajiba, WAAD Designs, Riva, Harvey Nichols, Machka
✨ Kidswear: Salam Kido, Monsoon, Mayoral, Centrepoint
✨ Home Décor: IKEA, H&M Home, Home Centre, PAN Home
✨ Beauty & Fragrance: Charlotte Tilbury, Gold Apple, Rituals, Pari Gallery, Ambix Perfumes

For the full list of Ramadan offers, visit Doha Festival City’s website or explore the Doha Festival City Gift Card’s exclusive deals. 

  1. Indulge in Special Iftar Menus and Ramadan Buffets

Across Select Restaurants | Throughout Ramadan

Break your fast with delicious Iftar menus and buffets at some of Doha’s finest dining spots, offering a mix of traditional Ramadan dishes and contemporary flavors. Whether you’re gathering with family or celebrating with friends, these restaurants offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy the season’s best flavors.

Top Picks: Dunia, Garden by Belgravia, Melenzane, Saiyd Afandi, Abajour, Asha’s, IKEA Restaurant, Yasmine Palace

  1. Exciting Family Entertainment & Activities

  Angry Birds World & Snow Dunes | Throughout Ramadan 

For those looking for thrilling experiences, Doha Festival City’s entertainment destinations offer incredible deals for families and adventure-seekers alike.

️ Angry Birds World 

Enjoy an Unlimited Play Pass for just QAR 149 per person, granting access to rides and attractions from 6 pm to 1 am. This single-entry pass allows unlimited fun, excluding Super Slingshot, Angry Birds Go, Novelty Games, Skill Games, and Redemption Games.

️ Snow Dunes 

Make the most of the Ramadan Deal with unlimited play for QAR 99 per person. The offer includes two hours of snow-filled excitement from 6 pm to 1 am, making it the perfect family outing during Ramadan nights.

Celebrate Ramadan from the Heart at Doha Festival City 

Don’t miss out—visit Doha Festival City and experience Ramadan like never before! Stay connected and be the first to know about the latest events, offers, and experiences by following Doha Festival City on Instagram, X or Facebook. 

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA DEBUTS ITS FIRST-EVER IFTAR-NOON TEA UNVEILING A UNIQUE TWIST ON A CHERISHED TRADITION

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THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA DEBUTS ITS FIRST-EVER IFTAR-NOON TEA UNVEILING A UNIQUE TWIST ON A CHERISHED TRADITION

This Ramadan, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha invites guests to experience a unique twist on a classic The Ritz-Carlton, Doha tradition, with the launch of daily Iftar-noon Tea. Served in the elegant setting of the Lobby Lounge, it presents the occasion to gather with loved ones and celebrate precious moments of togetherness during the holy month.  

A first-of-its-kind at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, Iftar-noon Tea embodies the property’s renown for developing creative concepts that are thoughtful and personalized. Commencing on 1 March, this innovative offering is available daily from sunset until 12am and provides the ideal opportunity to enjoy a light Iftar or Suhoor meal with friends and family under the grandeur of the glittering chandelier in the Lobby Lounge.  

Presenting a fusion of classic afternoon tea and regional delicacies, the menu offers a fresh take on tradition, ensuring every bite captures the essence of Ramadan through light, flavorful and aromatic delights. Enjoy delicious Middle Eastern savory delicacies like Mahashi with lobster or Cheese fataya, perfectly complemented by sweet treats, including Chocolate and cardamom cake, Date cake, Baklava cheesecake, Halawet el Jeben and more. Whether breaking fast or enjoying a light Suhoor, guests can embrace the spirit of the season, surrounded by luxury and comfort in one of Doha’s most iconic settings.

As the sun sets each day, guests are treated to an exclusive The Ritz-Carlton, Doha defining daily moment, where an Arabic coffee connoisseur shares knowledge on local coffee culture, while serving dates and traditional cookies, Maamoul. Enhancing the sense of occasion and creating unforgettable memories, this immersive experience creates a special atmosphere for guests to enjoy during Iftar-noon tea. 

A highlight in the hotel’s calendar of important annual occasions, the Islamic observance of Ramadan will be marked through a host of splendid family-centered events. Leading the way is Zamān by The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, where the magnificent Al Wosail ballroom is transformed into a traditional Arabian tent, evoking the warmth and hospitality of Arabian culture. Guests are invited to indulge in sumptuous buffet spreads for both Iftar and Suhoor, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the region. In addition, those wishing to celebrate at home can choose the Iftar To-Go box, full of tempting hot and cold Arabic classics. 

As Qatar’s favored destination for inter-generational celebrations, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, welcomes all to celebrate his significant holy month, where families and friends can gather in an exclusive setting, experiencing the hotel’s renowned legendary service at its finest.
For more information on The Ritz-Carlton, Doha please call +974 4484 8000, WhatsApp +974 5599 0916 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/doha.

Layali Lusail: A Unique Iftar and Suhoor Experience at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail

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Layali Lusail: A Unique Iftar and Suhoor Experience at Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail is excited to welcome guests to Layali Lusail — an enhanced setting to gather with loved ones for a truly memorable Iftar and Suhoor.

Experience a rich and diverse culinary journey with an exquisite buffet showcasing Arabic, Italian, and Asian specialties, along with live cooking stations where skilled chefs prepare fresh, flavorful dishes before your eyes.

The special of this year is that our signature restaurants SUSHISAMBA and Scarpetta bring their best dishes to Layali Lusail. SUSHISAMBA’s bold fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine features vibrant sushi and signature creations, while Scarpetta brings its renowned signature pasta.

Whether dining in the elegant indoor space, enjoying the open-air ambiance or opting for a private gathering, every moment is designed to be unforgettable.

To further enrich the experience, live performances from an oud player, percussionist, and singer create a warm atmosphere. Guests can capture special memories at the photo booth, while kids delight in henna art, face painting, and a balloon workshop.

The third year in a row, sustainability takes center stage. As part of Hilton and UNEP’s Green Ramadan initiative, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail continues the commitment to reducing food waste, sourcing locally, and promoting sustainable dining practices. Building on last year’s success in driving impactful results, the hotel remains dedicated to making a difference—ensuring that excess food is carefully tracked and donated to those in need.

Priced at 250 QAR per person, Layali Lusail Iftar and Suhoor offers a unique blend of flavors and traditions. Secure your spot by calling 4456 5770 or WhatsApp at 6682 9323, and enjoy a Ramadan filled with memorable experiences and a commitment to sustainability.

FERRARI AND CADILLAC SHARE PRACTICE HONORS AS QATAR 1812 KM ROARS INTO LIFE AT LUSAIL

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FERRARI AND CADILLAC SHARE PRACTICE HONORS AS QATAR 1812 KM ROARS INTO LIFE AT LUSAIL

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) roared to life today as the Qatar 1812 KM – FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) 2025 season opener commenced with an action-packed day of practice sessions and motorsport excellence, following a spectacular showcase the previous evening along Lusail Boulevard where all 13 manufacturers showcased their Hypercar and LMGT3 machinery to enthusiastic fans, setting the perfect stage for the new season. 

The day began with a vibrant atmosphere as Formula 4 Middle East Championship and Formula Regional Middle East Championship (FRME) test sessions complemented the main Qatar 1812 KM activities. The F4 sessions featured three promising Qatari drivers representing QMMF Team, carrying national hopes as they continue their motorsport development journey on home soil. Meanwhile, the FRME draws special attention as it conducts its final races of the season in Qatar, bringing the regional competition to an exciting conclusion. 

During Qatar 1812 KM Practice 1, Ferrari AF Corse topped the timesheet with James Calado setting a blistering 1:42.123 in the #51 499P, demonstrating the Italian manufacturer’s strong start to the 2025 campaign. Close behind was the #38 HERTZ Team JOTA Cadillac, with Sebastien Bourdais posting a competitive 1:42.355, while the #50 sister Ferrari 499P completed the top three, less than a tenth behind the Cadillac. The session highlighted the competitive nature of the field, with the quickest ten cars in the top category all setting times within just one second of each other, promising close racing for the season ahead.

In the LMGT3 category, AKKODIS ASP’s #78 Lexus topped the times with Ben Barnicoat setting a 1:55.801, followed closely by the two TF Sport Corvettes within two-tenths. Neither Iron Lynx Mercedes-AMG GT3 left the pit lane due to fuel docking procedure issues requiring a software update, presenting an early challenge for the manufacturer’s WEC debut. Meanwhile, Racing Spirit of Leman and Proton Competition successfully repaired their damaged cars, with the #10 RSLM Vantage completing 34 laps for sixth position and the rebuilt #77 Mustang completing a determined 25 laps despite being the slowest in class.

The second practice session saw Cadillac rising to the top of the timesheet with Will Stevens in the #12 V 0- Series. R posting a 1:42.228, just 0.105 seconds slower than Calado’s FP1 benchmark but enough to be three tenths quicker than Ferrari’s Antonio Fuoco in the #50 499P. BMW’s René Rast completed the top three in the #20 car, almost half a second behind the pacesetting Cadillac. In LMGT3, United Autosports claimed the fastest time with Sean Gelael lapping the circuit in 1:54.557 in the #95 McLaren 720S GT3 Evo, while the AKKODIS ASP Lexus team continued their impressive form with Ben Barnicoat’s #78 RC F GT3 finishing just 0.136 seconds behind the McLaren. The #87 sister Lexus of Jose Maria Lopez completed the top three LMGT3 positions with a 1:54.742, showcasing the Japanese manufacturer’s strong pace across both practice sessions.

A special highlight of the day was the Lusail Classic Free Practice session, which featured 30 veteran entries from nine nations piloting iconic machinery from endurance racing’s golden era. The session was topped by Charlie Hyett in the 1975 Chevron B31 with a time of 2:02.525, followed by Jamie Constable in the 1971 Chevron B19 just 2.779 seconds behind. The #4 1971 Porsche 908/03 completed the top three setting a time of 2:05.308. 

The day concluded with the spectacular Lusail Classic Parade, that took off from the circuit to the Old Doha Port where fans lined up to witness vintage racing machinery including the likes of the rare Ferrari 51 BBLM with its flat-12 engine, the nimble British Ginetta G16, and the Chevrolet Corvette C3 representing raw American muscle, delighting spectators with the sights and sounds of endurance racing’s golden era.

Racing continues tomorrow with qualifying sessions that will determine the starting grid for Friday’s sub-10-hour endurance race, which awards 38 championship points to the winners as part of WEC’s points system. Fans will also have the opportunity to get closer to the action with a special Pit Lane Walk and driver autograph session, offering a chance to meet the stars of endurance racing and see the sophisticated engineering marvels up close.
Fans can still purchase tickets for the remaining days, with General Admission priced at 200 QAR for adults, while children under 12 can attend free of charge if accompanied by one paying adult . The premium Qatar 1812 KM Lounge experience remains available at 3,468 QAR, offering gourmet dining, exclusive Pit Lane access, and premium trackside viewing. For more information visit the LIC website.

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