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MotoGP™ QATAR AIRWAYS GRAND PRIX OF QATAR 2026 Rescheduled to November 6-8

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Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) confirm that the MotoGP™ QATAR AIRWAYS GRAND PRIX OF QATAR 2026, originally scheduled for 10 to 12 April, has been postponed and rescheduled to November 6-8  later this year, following a decision by MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group, while QMMF and LIC confirmed their respect and support for the decision.

The event will welcome the world’s premier motorcycle racing championship back to Lusail International Circuit, continuing Qatar’s long standing role on the MotoGP™ calendar. Since first hosting a MotoGP™ round in 2004, LIC has become one of the most distinctive venues in the championship, staging the sport’s first ever night race in 2008 to date and establishing itself as one of the most iconic settings in global motorcycle racing.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit (LIC), said: 

“The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP™️ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to  November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai
Lusail International Circuit (LIC)

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, said:

“This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard. We also recognise the importance of providing clarity for our fans as early as possible and ticket holders will be given the opportunity to rollover their tickets to the next event”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP

“I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar. We are confident that the updated schedule will allow us to preserve the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing.”

All purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled event. Ticket holders may contact us at [email protected] for more information. Further updates will be communicated as soon as they become available.

Lusail International Circuit (LIC)

QMMF and LIC remain committed to supporting FIM and its long term presence in Qatar, reinforcing the nation’s position as a key destination on the global motorsport calendar.

Qatar 1812 KM to 22–24 October 2026 at Lusail International Circuit

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Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) confirm that the Qatar 1812 KM, part of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), has been rescheduled and will now take place from 22nd to 24th October 2026 at Lusail International Circuit.

Originally scheduled for March, the event was postponed earlier this year following a decision made by FIA WEC, while QMMF and LIC confirmed their respect and support for the decision. The new October date ensures the race will remain on the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship calendar, allowing teams, partners and fans to experience endurance racing at one of the Middle East’s premier motorsport venues later in the season. Additionally LIC will play a pivotal role as it will be hosting the penultimate race of the season creating a more dramatic environment for leading teams.

The Qatar 1812 KM has quickly established itself as a key event on the FIA WEC calendar since Qatar joined the championship in 2024. As one of the world’s leading endurance racing series, the FIA WEC brings together some of the most prestigious automotive manufacturers to compete in long distance races that test speed, strategy and mechanical resilience.

Entering its 14th season, the championship continues to showcase a remarkable level of global competition. In 2026, 14 major manufacturers with 35 full season entries including 17 Hypercars and 18 LMGT3 cars will be represented, including Alpine, Aston Martin, BMW, Cadillac, Ferrari, Genesis, Peugeot and Toyota in the premier Hypercar class, alongside leading GT manufacturers such as Corvette, Ford, Lexus, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche in LMGT3. Together, these brands create one of the most diverse and competitive grids in international motorsport.

The championship’s endurance format, where teams of up to three drivers share a single car over races lasting several hours, combines engineering excellence with strategic precision. From hybrid prototype Hypercars to production based LMGT3 machines, the FIA WEC continues to highlight innovation, sustainability and technological development at the highest level of motorsport.

All previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled event. Ticket holders seeking additional information may contact [email protected]. Further details regarding the race weekend and spectator activities will be announced in due course.

QMMF and LIC remain committed to supporting the long term growth of the FIA World Endurance Championship in Qatar, reinforcing the nation’s position as a key destination on the global motorsport calendar.

Qatar Tourism Announces Final Hotel Stay Extensions for Visitors Affected by Travel Disruptions

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Qatar Tourism has announced that the temporary hotel stay extensions provided to visitors affected by recent travel disruptions will remain in place until 14 March 2026, allowing guests additional time to make the necessary travel arrangements to return to their home destinations.

The temporary measure was introduced to support visitors whose travel plans were disrupted due to exceptional circumstances. Eligible visitors whose flights were cancelled or disrupted since 28 February have been provided with complimentary hotel stay extensions in licensed hotels, including accommodation in the same room category and three daily meals, coordinated between Qatar Tourism and hospitality partners.

Visitors can finalise their travel arrangements by 14 March. Those requiring assistance may contact their hotel concierge, the Qatar Tourism hotline at 106 or the international line at +974 4406 9921.
Source – Qatar Tourism

Qatar Airways Transports Nearly 300 Tons of Essential Goods to Qatar Since Early March

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Qatar Airways has announced that it has transported nearly 300 tons of essential goods to the State of Qatar since the beginning of March, ensuring the continued supply of vital commodities to the country.

In a statement released Thursday, the airline said it had taken the necessary logistical arrangements to secure the arrival of key supplies, including health medicines, baby milk, fresh food products such as meat, fish, fruits and vegetables, medical equipment, and other essential food items.

The airline noted that it has been bringing more than 200 tons of vital imports per day to Doha, operating cargo flights from major global markets across Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, India, Pakistan, and other international regions.

According to the statement, the efforts come amid the continued closure of Qatar’s airspace since February 28, which has posed operational challenges for the aviation sector. Despite these conditions, Qatar Airways said it has remained committed to supporting the country by maintaining the steady flow of essential imports.

The airline added that, after receiving temporary approval from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority for the partial resumption of air traffic through limited and safe air routes, it has resumed operating cargo flights through these designated corridors. These flights aim to support suppliers, traders, and companies by ensuring the consistent delivery of critical goods to the country.

To further strengthen supply operations, Qatar Airways has repurposed part of its fleet of 30 Boeing 777 freighter aircraft to facilitate the efficient and rapid transportation of essential commodities, prioritizing supplies needed by citizens and residents.

The airline emphasized that it will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and adjust its services and cargo capacity accordingly, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the State of Qatar’s supply chains and national needs.


SOURCE – QNA

Mid-Second-Semester Exams for Grades 1–11 in Qatar Moved to April 12–21, 2026

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The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has announced an amendment to the schedule of the mid-second-semester examinations for the academic year 2025–2026 for students in grades one through eleven (daytime schools).

The decision comes in light of the current developments and aims to ensure that students are provided with appropriate and supportive conditions to sit for their exams.

According to the ministry, the revised examination period will now take place from April 12 to April 21, 2026.

Officials stated that the adjustment is part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to maintain the smooth functioning of the academic process while prioritizing the well-being and preparedness of students.

The ministry also confirmed that detailed exam schedules for each grade will be announced at a later date through official channels.

Students, parents, and school administrations are encouraged to follow updates from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education for further information regarding the exam timetables and related procedures.

talabat Qatar Introduces ‘Hero Meals’ in Partnership with Qatar Red Crescent Society

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The initiative enables customers to support riders during through simple in-app giving

talabat, the leading on-demand delivery platform in MENA, has partnered with Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) to launch ‘Hero Meals.’ The initiative enables customers to donate meals to riders directly through the app.

As part of the initiative, participating restaurants will offer specially curated meal options available within the ‘Hero Meals’ collection on the talabat app. Customers can support riders by adding a Hero Meal to their order in just a few taps. The donated meals will be distributed to riders, offering a simple and meaningful way for customers to show appreciation during the holy month.

Francisco Miguel De Sousa, Managing Director of talabat Qatar, said:

“With Hero Meals, we are happy to launch an initiative that allows our customers to directly support the riders who serve our community every day. Partnering with Qatar Red Crescent Society ensures that this campaign is delivered with credibility and meaningful impact.”

Francisco Miguel De Sousa

Eng. Ibrahim bin Hashem Al-Sada, Managing Director – Secretary-General of QRCS, stated:

“We at QRCS give priority to partnership with the private-sector companies that cherish corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a central component of their business model. For years now, talabat Qatar has been working closely with us to promote community service and welfare. This initiative is just another example, which we really appreciate.”

Eng. Ibrahim bin Hashem Al-Sada

Customers can participate by opening the talabat app, navigating to the ‘Hero Meals’ collection, and adding a rider meal to their order.

Customers can download the talabat application through the iOS App Store, Google Playstore, and Huawei App Gallery.

Qatar Airways Operates Limited Flight Schedule to and from Doha : March 12 & 13, 2026

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With Qatar Airways flights still temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace, we are doing everything possible to support affected passengers and help reunite them with family and loved ones. We recognise this may be unsettling and appreciate your patience and understanding during this time. Operations will resume once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms the safe reopening of Qatari airspace. Following temporary authorisation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority allowing limited operating corridors, Qatar Airways plans to operate select flights in the coming days to support passengers affected by the disruption. These flights do not constitute confirmation of the resumption of scheduled commercial operations. To book these flights and for the latest flight updates, please visit the Qatar Airways website or App, or contact a travel agent. Passengers are kindly asked not to arrive at their departure airport unless they hold a valid, confirmed ticket for travel. The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority. We apologise for the disruption caused by circumstances beyond our control and thank our passengers for their patience and understanding. Passengers with confirmed bookings between 28 February and 22 March 2026 may choose two complimentary date changes (up to +14 days from the original travel date) or a refund of the unused ticket value. For the latest updates, please visit our official updates page: http://qatarairways.com/travelalerts

Embassy of India Issues Advisory for Indians in Qatar Amid Regional Security Situation

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The Embassy of India, Doha has issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in Qatar to follow safety instructions issued by Qatari authorities in view of the current regional security situation.

In the advisory released at 1100 hrs (Doha time) on March 6, 2026, the embassy requested all Indians in the country to strictly comply with guidelines from the Ministry of Interior. Residents have been advised to stay in safe locations, avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary, and keep away from windows or exposed areas.

The embassy also stated that updates and advisories issued by Qatari authorities are being shared through its official social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and Instagram.

Qatar Airspace Closed, Flights Suspended

According to the advisory, Qatar’s airspace remains closed and flight operations have been temporarily suspended. National carrier Qatar Airways is expected to provide the next update regarding flight operations on March 7, 2026 at 0900 hrs (Doha time).

Passengers are advised to stay in contact with their respective airlines for updates regarding travel arrangements.

Visa Extensions Announced

The advisory also highlighted an announcement by the Ministry of Interior that all categories of entry visas that have expired or are about to expire will be extended by one month. The extension is effective from February 28, 2026, with the possibility of further extension depending on developments.

Exit Option via Saudi Arabia

For individuals who may need to leave the country urgently, the embassy noted that the Salwa land border crossing to Saudi Arabia remains open.

Indian nationals holding valid and previously used visas for the United States, the United Kingdom, or the Schengen Area may obtain a visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia. Other Indian nationals who wish to travel through Saudi Arabia will need to apply for Saudi visas following standard procedures.

Registration for Stranded Transit Passengers

The embassy is also opening a registration link to help facilitate temporary transit visas to Saudi Arabia for Indian nationals who are currently stranded in Qatar while on transit, provided they have confirmed onward tickets from Saudi Arabia.

Applicants must submit:

  • A copy of their inbound flight ticket to Qatar
  • A confirmed ticket departing from Saudi Arabia

The embassy noted that individuals will have to make their own logistical arrangements for travel to the Salwa border crossing and onward departure airports. It also stated that at least 48 hours will be required to process and provide the necessary facilitation.

Embassy Helplines

The Embassy of India in Doha confirmed that it remains available to support the Indian community during this period. Emergency helpline numbers are:

  • +974 55647502
  • +974 55362508

Queries can also be sent via email to [email protected].

The embassy reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of Indian nationals in Qatar and urged the community to remain vigilant and follow official advisories.

Qatar Tourism Hotline (106) Remains Operational to Support Visitors Amid Regional Developments

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Qatar Tourism has confirmed that its dedicated Tourism Hotline (106) remains fully operational to assist visitors currently in the country amid ongoing regional developments.

The hotline has been strengthened to provide guidance, support, and tourism-related assistance to guests who may require help during this period. Visitors in Qatar are encouraged to contact the hotline for any inquiries or support related to their stay.

Commitment to Visitor Safety and Support

In a statement to guests, Qatar Tourism reassured travelers that the situation in the State of Qatar remains stable and that the country continues to prioritize the safety, comfort, and wellbeing of all visitors.

Authorities across various sectors are working in close coordination to maintain robust support systems and clear communication channels, ensuring assistance is available whenever needed. Qatar, known for its strong hospitality sector, continues to support guests throughout their stay.

Flight Disruptions and Travel Guidance

Qatar Tourism confirmed that commercial passenger flights remain temporarily disrupted due to the ongoing closure of Qatar’s airspace. However, limited relief flights may be arranged by airlines to assist affected passengers.

Travellers are advised to:

  • Wait for official communication from their airline regarding travel arrangements.
  • Avoid going to the airport unless instructed by their airline.
  • Follow updates from official government and aviation authorities.

Regular flight operations will resume once authorities confirm the safe reopening of the airspace.

Visa Extensions for Affected Visitors

To assist travellers impacted by the temporary travel disruptions, the State of Qatar has automatically extended visas and entry permits for affected visitors. These extensions are being granted without any additional fees, allowing guests to remain in the country legally until travel resumes.

Visitors whose scheduled departure dates have passed due to flight suspensions are advised to contact the Qatar Tourism Hotline (106) for guidance on the next steps.

Essential Services Continue Across the Country

Authorities confirmed that essential services across Qatar continue to operate, with adjustments implemented where necessary in line with official safety guidance. Government entities are actively coordinating efforts to ensure visitors have access to necessary services and information.

Rely on Official Sources

Visitors are strongly encouraged to follow updates from verified government platforms and official news channels to receive accurate and timely information.

Key official platforms include:

  • Ministry of Interior (MOI)
  • Ministry of Public Health (MOPH)
  • Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar
  • Government Communications Office (GCO)
  • Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA)
  • Hamad International Airport
  • Qatar Airways
  • Qatar News Agency (QNA)

Emergency and Support Contacts

Visitors can use the following numbers for assistance in Qatar:

  • Police, Fire and Ambulance: 999
  • Tourism Hotline: 106
  • Hamad International Airport: 40106666
  • Ministry of Public Health: 44070000
  • Hamad General Hospital: 40114444 / 16000
  • Internet Services: 111
  • Kahramaa (Electricity & Water): 991
  • Ooredoo & Vodafone Services: 111

Qatar Tourism emphasized that visitor safety and comfort remain the country’s top priority, thanking guests for their patience and assuring them that support remains available throughout their stay.

Source: Qatar Tourism

Qatar Sets Zakat Al-Fitr at QR15 per Person for Ramadan 2026

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The Zakat Fund Department under the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has officially announced that the Zakat Al-Fitr amount for Ramadan 2026 has been set at QR15 per person. The announcement was reported by The Peninsula on March 4, 2026.

Official Announcement

According to Malallah Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Head of the Zakat Fund Department, the fixed amount ensures that Muslims can fulfill their religious obligation of Zakat Al-Fitr, which is traditionally given before the Eid Al-Fitr prayer to support families in need.

Al Jaber also noted that individuals may authorize the Zakat Fund Department to manage their Zakat Al-Fitr throughout the month of Ramadan. In such cases, the department will take full responsibility for purchasing food items and distributing them to eligible beneficiaries at the appropriate religious time, ensuring that donors meet their obligations correctly.

Multiple Payment Options for Donors

To make the process easier and more secure, the Zakat Fund Department has introduced several digital and physical payment options:

These options allow donors to conveniently contribute their Zakat from anywhere.

Collection Points Across Qatar

In addition to online methods, the department has set up physical collection offices across Qatar, operating during both morning and evening hours.

More than 28 mosques across the country have also been designated as Zakat Al-Fitr collection points, making it easier for residents to donate. The department regularly updates the public about these locations through its official social media channels.

Ensuring Timely Distribution

To guarantee that assistance reaches those in need before the Eid prayer, the Zakat Fund Department has partnered with a specialized delivery company. This collaboration ensures that food supplies funded through Zakat Al-Fitr donations are delivered to eligible families on time, allowing them to celebrate Eid with dignity.

Zakat Al-Fitr is a mandatory charitable contribution for Muslims at the end of Ramadan, intended to purify fasting and provide food for the less fortunate during the Eid celebrations. The set amount of QR15 per person helps standardize contributions and ensures efficient distribution across the country.