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With an array of shows, iconic limestone rock formations, safaris and cuisine, Ras Abrouq is beckoning explorers to lend an experience of opulent desert tourism. Touted to be the first of its kind desert activation by Qatar Tourism, the Ras Abrouq landscape strikes visitors with the topography of unusual rock formations, plateaus and coastline. To run until January 18, the desert event activation at Ras Abrouq is recording visitors who are enthralled by the blend of cultural gala, cuisine, games and adventure. “Ras Abrouq is captivating indeed. The desert off-driving while enjoying the natural surroundings gives a feel of immersing in the serene beauty of the desert. It’s all about experiencing the blend of adventure and tranquility,” said Mohamed Jaseem, who drove from Doha to Ras Abrouq on Saturday. Located on the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, Ras Abrouq is the northernmost extension of the Zekreet Peninsula. With a beach, the prehistoric landscape has various archaeological sites with remains of ancient human occupation and the presence of semi-nomadic tribes. The beautiful and iconic rock formations at Ras Abrouq draw many tourists as well as scholars. The unusual landscape of white cliffs with soft limestone layers impress the visitors. And the mushroom-shaped hills adore the much preserved archaeological sites here. Most parts of the peninsula are protected and are dedicated to a nature reserve for wild deer. With the activation of the event, the unique destination offers relaxation and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy wellness activities, dining, music and cultural activities at affordable prices. Visitors can explore immersive zones, including Our Habitas Resort, The Desert Escape, Film City, Wildlife Park, and the Glamping Zone. Highlights range from hot air balloon rides, which are weekly scheduled, to daily camel parades. QT has also incorporated cultural installations, live performances and educational workshops enabling the visitors to connect with Qatar's heritage. With a coffee shop, gift shop and an exhibition, the Film City offers a variety of family-oriented activities. Wildlife park rides, camel, pony, and horse rides are also available. Along with children’s workshops, traditional Qatari installations such as the Al Hosh majlis and live performances, mystic storytelling and the Desert Mirage Dance are also lined up. The Wildlife Park offers safari-like experiences with camel and horse routes allowing guests to explore the animal zones while the Glamping Zone provides a luxurious family-friendly desert camping experience. The zone has relaxation facilities, tents and outdoor lounges. The Desert Escape features a variety of activities. They include hot air balloon rides, trampolines, archery, and stargazing. Acrobatic shows and falcon demonstrations, roaming parades and kids’ treasure hunts are among the highlights. Our Habitas offers a variety of affordable packages, including options for weekdays, weekends, half-day passes, one-day passes, and wellness passes. Specialised packages featuring stargazing, hot air balloon rides, and more are also available.

Showcasing Italian culture, tradition, cuisine and its position in innovation and agri-tech, the Villaggio Italia exhibition is beckoning visitors at Old Doha Port.Open until Sunday (December 22), the exhibition featuring Italian products is a part of the global tour of the historic sailing ship *Amerigo Vespucci, which arrived in Doha to convey the message of peace and partnership and testify to the diplomatic relations between Qatar and Italy.While opening the exhibition Thursday, Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida said that the Villaggio Italia is dedicated to featuring the entire Italy with its characteristics.“At Expo 2023 Doha, Italy participated while showcasing the innovations in the agriculture sector and technology,” he said, adding that Italy can help Qatar and the countries in the region attain development in the agriculture sector."Italy and Qatar have a good relationship in various sectors,” he said.“Italian presence is visible in Qatar in the sports, agriculture and technology sectors,” the minister continued. “Italy is known for innovations in the agriculture sector and high-quality agricultural products. And this expertise can be used by the countries in the region.”“The co-operation can lead to establishing a supply chain to achieve food security,” he said.The exhibition is a journey into the Italian taste and artisan tradition.The “Anima Italia” at the exhibition hosts the vegetable garden of Italian excellence with a space of nature dedicated to typical Italian crops.The corner for distinguished Italian cuisine is a tribute to the rich tradition of Mediterranean cuisine and the authentic flavours of Italy.The Villaggio Italia also offers visitors a unique experience to explore cultural activities where Italian music and art performances welcome the visitors.The *Amerigo Vespucci, the historic sailing ship and training ship of the Italian navy, docked at the Old Doha Port for the first time in its 93-year history.Doha is the 30th stop on the Vespucci World Tour which started from Italy on July 1 last year.The *Vespucci is open to the public free of charge from 10am-11pm, until tomorrow. The ship will depart on Sunday.This is the sixth appointment with the Villaggio Italia after those in Los Angeles, Tokyo, Darwin, Singapore and Mumbai.The event in Qatar is with the support of the Italian embassy in Doha, the Italian Trade Agency, and local partners Qatar Tourism, Katara – the Cultural Village and Old Doha Port.

The Treated Sewage Effluent Transmission Main and Pumping Station (D-Line) project by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will irrigate farms while remarkably reducing groundwater consumption.Scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025, the D-Line project passes through the Rakhiya farms while serving to meet its irrigation needs.The project is part of Ashghal’s efforts to benefit from treated wastewater and encourage efficient and sustainable consumption of water resources. This is in line with the sustainable development objectives and the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, which includes reusing 100% of treated wastewater by 2030.“The project consists of a 65km-long TSE transmission pipeline that starts at the existing Doha South Sewage Treatment Works (STW) and is to be laid along the main service route of Salwa Road, passing through the Rakhiya farms and surrounding areas and up to the TSE Storage Lagoons where excess treated wastewater is stored,” according to Ashghal website.The project will pump 22.5mn cu m of treated wastewater annually. The project aims to transfer treated wastewater from the Doha South Sewage Treatment Works in the Nuaija area to the Seasonal Storage Lagoons with the aim of balancing the deficit and surplus of the treated sewage water and achieving its optimal use. The treated water will be reused to supply feed farms with irrigation water thus reducing the use of groundwater.The project also includes the construction of a pumping station with a capacity of 120,000 cubic metres/day which will pump the TSE flow from the Doha South STW to the seasonal storage lagoons.This is in addition to the mechanical, electrical and related equipment works.

HE the Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed al-Thani on Sunday laid the foundation stone for an EU-standard electric bus assembly plant at Um Al Houl Free Zone.The plant is set up in collaboration between Mowasalat (Karwa), Yutong and Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ). Marking the ceremony, an Enhanced Multilateral Framework Agreement was signed by HE the QFZ CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, Karwa CEO Ahmad Hassan al-Obaidly and Yutong Middle East CEO Shen Hui.Spread over an area of nearly 53,000 sqm, the project marks a pivotal step towards a greener, more sustainable future for the nation and the region, and aims to establish a production hub for EU-standard electric buses.Once completed by the end of 2025, the plant will begin producing electric city buses, metro feeder buses and school buses, with an initial output capacity of 300 buses a year. Over time, the facility will scale up to meet both local demand and the growing needs of international markets across the Mena region and Europe.The greenfield plant, equipped with state-of-the-art welding, painting, assembly and testing workshops will utilise cutting-edge electro-mobility technologies, ensuring efficient and sustainable production processes. The plant is expected to be a pioneer project in delivering experience and industry localisation.The project is leveraging the advanced capabilities of both Mowasalat and Yutong let alone expanding Yutong’s manufacturing footprint in the free zones in Qatar.HE the Minister of Transport said that founding an e-bus assembly plant is a major event in terms of supporting the efforts of the Ministry of Transport (MoT) to provide eco-friendly transportation solutions with the best global operation systems, in step with the goals of the Third Qatar National Development Strategy (NDS3), which focuses on sustainable development and advanced technologies, leading to the full realisation of the Qatar National Vision 2030.The plant will contribute to achieving the MoT’s strategy of public bus system electrification by 100% by 2030 ensuring less carbon emissions and better quality of life, he added.“As part of our commitment to developing sustainable transportation and our success in achieving 73% electrification in the public bus fleet, this initiative reflects our dedication to localising innovative technologies in Qatar," Karwa chairman Dr engineer Saad bin Ahmed Ibrahim al-Mohannadi."Through the establishment of this new facility, we reaffirm our leadership in eco-friendly transportation, effectively contributing to achieving a fully electric public transport sector by 2030, in alignment with Qatar’s vision for a more sustainable future,” he added.“Today’s groundbreaking for the electric bus assembly plant at Um Alhoul Free Zone, and signing of the enhanced multilateral framework agreement, mark a significant step in Qatar’s ongoing efforts to foster industrial and transportation innovation and sustainable development," QFZ CEO said."We are not only advancing our economic diversification efforts but also positioning Qatar at the forefront of the global transition to environmentally friendly technologies. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to building a sustainable, future-ready economy in line with the objectives of QNV 2030, and the plans of electric vehicle transformation strategy,” he stated.Karwa CEO, said: “Our investment in this electric bus assembly plant signifies more than just growth; it’s a commitment to economic and environmental sustainability. Together with Yutong and the Qatar Free Zone Authority, we are advancing the future of public transportation with new mobility solutions."Yutong International managing director Peng Xu said Yutong is proud to partner with Qatar in this transformative project. “The establishment of this facility symbolises our dedication to delivering world-class technology and localized solutions to support regional green mobility goals," he said.The groundbreaking ceremony, which was attended by several ministers and senior state officials, was followed by a tour by ministers of transport, commerce and industry, environment and climate change and several officials from QFZ, Karwa and Yutong to the e-bus display area where they checked out some of the e-bus models planned to be produced.

Digital transformation is no longer just about implementing new technologies — it’s about ensuring that people remain at the heart of innovation, psychologist, researcher and author Dr Patrizia Ariane Ecker has said.In an interview with Gulf Times, she explained that success today is defined by the ability to address real human needs, encourage adaptability and foster lifelong learning. “This can be achieved by moving away from a technology-centric approach to a human-centric one focusing on how technology can enhance creativity, decision making and collaboration,” she said.With over 15 years of experience, Dr Ecker has founded a boutique consultancy specialising in digital transformation, AI, and cognitive biases. Her upcoming book, The Digital Reinforcement of Bias and Belief, explores the cognitive and social implications of web-based information processing.Her focus is on human-centric digital transformation, which means moving away from viewing technology as the centrepiece and instead emphasising its role as an enabler for people.“The future of AI and digital tools lies in complementing human creativity, critical thinking, and decision making, rather than mimicking or replacing them. For instance, fostering lifelong learning and adaptability is crucial. Students, professionals, and governments must align to cultivate a workforce capable of navigating rapid technological shifts, ensuring inclusivity and equity."Digital transformation and AI have vast potential to drive global development by improving access to education and achieving healthcare advancements, economic growth and sustainable development."As a psychologist she believes that AI has the potential to transform society positively, but only if approached thoughtfully. “AI has the potential to greatly benefit humanity, but its development and use must be guided by thoughtful principles. AI should complement human abilities rather than replace them. By working alongside humans, AI can enhance our natural skills, fostering collaboration and innovation without supplanting the value of human input."Lifelong learning and critical thinking, among other human-centred skills, must remain a priority. There is a need to establish frameworks that emphasise adaptability and interdisciplinary collaboration in education and workforce development and encourage active participation, especially among younger generations, to reduce decision making aversion and increase societal agency."Governments can significantly enhance their services and impact by adopting a collaborative and human-centric approach to digital transformation through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and by redefining the future workforce, leveraging technology for inclusivity and building a human-centric ecosystem."Dr Ecker said that AI creates new opportunities even though it can reduce some traditional job roles. “Reskilling and upskilling must be prioritised with a strong emphasis on education and training to help individuals adapt to new and emerging roles in the workforce."Many jobs will evolve rather than disappear, with AI augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them entirely. This collaboration between humans and technology can lead to more efficient and innovative ways of working. Furthermore, digital tools significantly lower barriers for startups, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation."Dr Ecker noted that Qatar offers a dynamic environment for digital innovation. She has plans to advise organisations by supporting digital transformation initiatives with a strong emphasis on a human centred approach.“The GCC, particularly Qatar, is making significant strides with investments in AI, smart cities, and education. The country’s vision for innovation and sustainability positions it as a leader in the region. With initiatives like the National AI Strategy, Qatar is setting benchmarks in integrating technology with societal goals,” she said.Dr Ecker suggested Qatar should focus on several key areas while strengthening public private collaboration is essential; partnerships between the government, private sector and academia can help design interdisciplinary programmes that define and cultivate the skills needed for the workforce of tomorrow.“Additionally, investing in human-centric initiatives is critical. Innovations that prioritise societal well being such as AI tools for education, healthcare and sustainability, should be encouraged. Qatar could also take a leading role in the region by driving ethical AI standards,” she added.

Shopping at Monoprix-Doha Festival City is set to become a pleasant experience for people with sensory sensitivities, thanks to the sensory friendly hours that offer an inclusive shopping environment.In collaboration with Step by Step Centre for Special Needs, Monoprix-Doha Festival City launched yesterday the initiative to provide a sensory-friendly shopping experience from 1pm-3pm on weekdays and from 8am-10am on Fridays and Saturdays.The initiative is part of the inclusion policy of Monoprix and an awareness campaign by Step By Step Centre, aimed at creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.“The initiative is part of the efforts to innovatively give back to the community,” said Monoprix country manager Chadi Bou Antoun. “This is an engagement with the people who need us.”“It’s a solution for the parents and a relief for the families who face difficulties while shopping with people with sensory sensitivities,” he said. “It’s a commitment. It’s not entertainment, but an activity that should be in place.”He added that the outlet staff members are trained to deal with the persons with sensory disabilities.Monoprix rolled out the initiative earlier at the Iconic 2022 outlet at Al Waab, where it is evoking a good response from customers.Monoprix-Doha Festival City store manager Khalid El Khatouri said that the outlet showcases its commitment towards persons with disabilities and leaves a message of inclusiveness by implementing the initiative.The sensory hours include dimming of store lights, turning off music and announcements over the PA (public address system) and mitigating cash register noise.Staff members are also encouraged to speak more softly and not perform certain tasks, like gathering grocery carts.The initiative is implemented as part of Step By Step Centre’s outreach initiative, Building Bridges, where the centre advocates inclusiveness in public places.“Bright lights and loud noises can make shopping tough for persons with sensory disabilities,” said Step By Step Group chief executive and managing director Nasreen Sharif. “Our aim is to ensure them hassle-free shopping experience.”“The idea of sensory-friendly shopping hours is a solution, and the dedicated hours ensure a calmer and more inclusive shopping experience for these individuals,” she said, adding that this kind of initiative will keep the persons with disabilities engaged.“A friendly shopping experience can inspire and motivate them while developing multiple social and vocational skills,” Sharif said, adding that efforts are being taken to spread the initiative to more shopping places across Qatar to achieve the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.“Unfamiliar faces and unfamiliar voices, the sound of trolleys moving, the bright lights, and music playing in the background are just some of the challenges experienced by persons with special needs,” said parent Navash Appalasamy. “These sensory hours will create an inclusive environment for neurodivergent individuals.”He noted that the initiative reaffirms that the special needs community is fully supported.The event also showcased products made by students of Step By Step Centre.

Noted Palestinian activist Dr Mustafa Barghouti has called on the international community to impose sanctions and boycott Israel to end the genocide in Gaza. “Our demand is very clear. You want to claim that international law and humanitarian law exist, impose sanctions on Israel now. This is the only way to achieve the change,” the Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Initiative, told Doha Forum Saturday.He was attending the panel discussion on 'Preventing Another Year of Tragedy in Palestine: Shaping a Way Forward' at the forum. He said Palestinians are the victims of global racism and colonialism.Moderated by Lyse Doucet, chief international correspondent and senior presenter, BBC News, the session had as other panellists Luis Gilberto Murillo Urrutia, Colombia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs; Diego Martínez Belío Spanish Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs; Blinne Ní Ghrálaigh KC, Senior Barrister at Matrix Chambers; and Daniel Levy: President, US/ Middle East Project (USMEP).The session discussed the longstanding disconnect between international law and approaches to the Palestine question. It analysed the consequential shift in the international legal reality that has not yet taken centre stage in diplomatic discourse.Barghouti said the crisis in Gaza raises the important questions of equality and impunity, enjoyed by Israel. Murillo, who termed the occupation genocide, noted that his country is doing its best for the Palestinian cause. More than 45,000 people have been killed with 70% of the victims being women and babies. We can’t allow this to happen in the 21st century,” he said noting that even journalists and humanitarian workers are not spared.The minister explained that his country is involved in the humanitarian aid for Gaza noting that flights were sent to Egypt and Lebanon to help the victims. He denounced the failure of the UN system to put an end to the crisis and noted the international system has failed to implement its decisions.

The Ministry of Labour (MoL) carried out 5,798 inspection visits to worksites and worker accommodations during the third quarter of 2024, according to the statistics released by the ministry. The visits were initiated by MoL’s Occupational Safety and Health Department to monitor the extent of establishments' compliance with the laws and ministerial decisions concerned with regulating the labour market in the country.MoL’s Labour Disputes Committees, according to the statistics, issued 1,402 decisions. During the same period, 2,357 cases were referred to the Labour Dispute Committees. As per the statistics, the Labour Dispute Department of the ministry addressed 273 public reporting cases while 5,062 cases were processed during the period. A total of 8,027 complaints by the establishment’s workforce against the establishment under Labour Law were received by the department.As per the statistics, the MoL Labour Relations Department received 9,241 applications for registering new establishment records while a total of 32,422 workforce secondment applications were received during the period. The department also received a total of 148,033 work contract authentic applications. The number of periodic update applications for establishment records received by the department stood at 11,328 while 2,691 applications for managing contact information for establishment officials were received. The period also witnessed a total of 18,277 applications for profession modification.

The fifth edition of the Qatar Classic Cars Contest & Exhibition opened Wednesday under the patronage of Qatar Museums (QM) Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. Being held until December 2 at Medina Centrale - The Pearl Island, the 2024 edition of the event features an exquisite array of luxury classic cars spanning several decades with a wider participation from Qatar and the other Gulf countries. The event is under the supervision of the International Federation of Classic Cars (FIVA) and in partnership with the United Development Company (UDC), the main developer of The Pearl and Giwan Islands and the main sponsorship of Qatar Tourism. Alfardan Classic Cars, DAAM and Katara Hospitality are among the other partners. The Qatar Gulf Classic Cars Association chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qasim al-Thani said the active participation of national companies in the event reflects its importance. Vice chairman Omar Hussein Alfardan said the exhibition will witness various surprises as the space has expanded. "The Qatar Classic Cars Contest and Exhibition offers the collectors of this category of cars an opportunity to display their cars to the public and provide a platform through which enthusiasts can admire their favourite classic cars," he explained. UDC CEO and board member Ibrahim Jassim al-Othman Fakhro said UDC looks forward to a special edition this year with a much bigger exhibition space and a wider participation from other Gulf countries. Qatar Tourism president and Visit Qatar chairman HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji stressed the importance of the exhibition and the wide success it has achieved in attracting foreign tourism, both for first-time participants and admirers of classic cars. Katara Hospitality CEO Nasser Matar al-Kuwari said the exhibition allows visitors to admire these priceless cars, and described the event as an important event that attracts local and regional attention. Alfardan Automotive CEO Dr Moin al-Hamwi said the event will propel the Qatar Gulf Classic Cars Association towards new horizons of excellence. While addressing the opening session, Abdullatif Ali al-Yafei, board member and general secretary of the association, said the latest edition is exceptional as it features broad participation from GCC countries and has doubled its exhibition space to showcase a stunning and rare collection of luxury classic cars representing various historical categories. The inaugural session also marked the honouring of the sponsors. A contest on the sidelines of the exhibition will see a specialised jury selecting the best cars. The winners will receive monetary prizes for the very first time. The competition includes five categories of classic cars, with three winners from each category. A photography competition open until November 30 will honour the best images of the classic cars in the exhibition.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has warned against the misuse of medicines. Addressing an awareness session on ‘Drugs and Prevention Methods’ Monday, Lt Abdullah Saleh al-Shammari from the General Directorate of Drug Control at MoI, said misuse of some medicines has grave risks and onsequences that affect the safety of the patients psychologically, mentally and physically.“Misuse of medical drugs leads to habituation, then to compulsive use, and develops to addiction,” he said while urging to use them only for the prescribed medical purpose, in the dose and quantity required and for the specified period.“Don’t use any medicines prescribed for others, without medical consultation,” al-Shammari said. MoI Public Relations Department organised the anti drug webinar in cooperation with the General Directorate of Drug Control.The official noted that it’s not allowed for the arriving or departing sick travellers to carry drugs containing narcotics or psychotropic substances except in accordance with the conditions issued by the competent authorities.A detailed and attested medical report issued by the hospital that treated the patient, he explained, should be with the traveller. The issue date of the report shouldn't exceed six months and must contain personal details of the patient, diagnosis, treatment plan, validity of prescriptions and names of the medicines.Lt al-Shammari also urged to ensure that the baggage doesn’t contain narcotic substances and dangerous psychotropic substances without a prescription issued by a doctor or certified hospital in the name of the holder.“Failure to verify the content of the luggage could expose you to legal liability,” he said asking travellers not to carry any materials of others without verifying their content as the bearer has full legal responsibility if these materials are prohibited in the country.“Avoid bringing any suspicious substances or drugs, because some narcotic substances and medicines may be allowed to be used in your country, but they are prohibited in Qatar. Stay away from suspicious places and bad companions. Don't hesitate to report any crime. Security is a shared responsibility that everyone bears,” he said.Lt al-Shammari asked drug-addicts to report to the authorities and avail of the services, being provided by the government. “No criminal case shall be filed against a person taking Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances if he turns up for the treatment. Qatar has provided a specialised centre for deaddiction and rehabilitation in line with the best international standards,” he said.He also explained the punishment for drug trafficking and abuse, the symptoms of drug addiction and vulnerable persons to drug abuse.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has awarded three projects worth QR140mn to connect thousands of households to the sewage network during 2024-2027. In a video, posted by Ashghal on X, the Drainage Networks Projects Department director engineer Khalid Saif al-Khayareen said these projects will cater to households in the southern, central and northern parts of Qatar.During 2022-2023 projects worth QR120mn were implemented to connect houses and other buildings to the sewage network. The official explained about 2,000 connections to the sewage network are implemented annually.The House Connections Section at Ashghal continues to connect citizens’ subdivisions to the sewage network and upgrade existing connections in various areas of Qatar. Engineer Ali al-Anzi, head of the House Connections Section, explained the services have been simplified. Individuals, companies, and government entities may submit a request to connect their properties or facilities to the Foul Sewer Network. The application can be submitted through the Ashghal website.The connection allows wastewater to be removed from the property and treated at an Ashghal Sewage Treatment Plant, according to information from the Ashghal website.

Granada: The international conference on ‘The Andalusian Legacy and Civilisation: from its Birth to Contemporary Transformations’, started Wednesday at Euro Arab Foundation in Granada, Spain. The first day witnessed historians and academia highlighting the historical significance of Al Andalus and discussing the ways to revive it.Chaired by Dr Mohammad Iqbal Farhat, associate professor, Department of Theology and Da’wa at Qatar University (QU), the inaugural session underlined the need for efforts to promote cultural exchange and strengthen relations between the Arab-Islamic world and Spain in its positive aspect.Dr Mohammed Abu Bakr al-Muslih, assistant dean of academic affairs at QU, while delivering his opening remarks, noted that the conference is rich with cultural dialogue and studies that promote coexistence and understanding among civilisations, religions, nations and communities.He noted that cultural dialogue and coexistence can be promoted through the dissemination of awareness about other civilisations. “The Andalusian legacy left by the Islamic civilisation in Spain and the Iberian Peninsula remains a pioneer of humanity’s creativity,” he said. HE the Secretary-General of the Qatar Committee for the Alliance of Civilisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ambassador Abdullah bin Ahmed al-Sada said the conference is held in the light of the rapid transformations witnessed by the world at the political, economic, environmental and scientific levels, which call for remembering and benefiting from the Andalusian cultural heritage that has provided human history with the values ​​of co-operation between nations, peoples and religions in addition to providing humanity with a lot of knowledge and technologies in the face of many challenges.“This conference is in line with the general goal that the Qatari Committee for the Alliance of Civilisations seeks to achieve in the field of civilisational diplomacy. He noted that Qatar’s strategy in achieving the alliance of civilisations emphasises strengthening the principles of dialogue among civilisations and highlighting the Islamic cultural heritage that provided humanity with a distinguished model in construction, urbanisation and scientific and cognitive progress,” he said.“We hope that this conference will come out with constructive and practical proposals and recommendations that can contribute to highlighting the bright image of the civilisational achievement that was achieved on the land of Al Andalus in fields of knowledge, arts and sciences,” he said, adding that it will strengthen and develop Arab-Spanish relations in various political, economic, commercial, cultural and scientific aspects.Dr Anar Karimov, head of the Partnership and International Cooperation Sector of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Icesco) and former minister of culture of Azerbaijan; Pro Antonio Sánchez Ortega, executive secretary of the Euro-Arab Foundation, Prof Dr Ezzeddine Mamiche, chairman of the Preparatory Committee of the Conference; and Dr Raid Jamil Mohammad Okashah, academic adviser at Institute of Islamic Thought attended the inaugural session.The inaugural day hosted sessions on ‘Andalusian Legacy: The Rise, Evolution and Interaction, ‘Andalusian Legacy and its Role in Cultural Interaction’ and ‘Andalusian Jurisprudence and Legal Legacy and its Role in Interacting with Calamities’. Also, a workshop was held on ‘Methodology for Dealing with Western Thought’.The two-day conference is organised by the Icesco Chair for the Alliance of Civilisations at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at QU in co-operation with the Quality and Sustainable Development Foundation, Euro Arab Foundation for Higher Studies, Qatar Committee for the Alliance of Civilisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Icesco, Journal of Sharia and Islamic Studies-Kuwait University and the International Institute of Islamic Thought, and the Institute for Philosophical Studies- Europe, Brussels.The conference features speakers from Qatar, Spain, Kuwait, Oman, the US, Canada, India, Kenya, Jordan, Morocco, Algeria, Iraq and Turkiye in various sessions.

The evenings are now less humid and the public parks are starting to come alive with larger crowds venturing out to get engaged in outdoor activities. This trend has been in the making for the last few weeks following the dip in the temperature. Many people now opt to go out and spend time in the parks while getting engaged in recreational activities, jogging and exercises while some go for fun evenings with family and friends enjoying barbecues.“What draws many people out is the improving weather conditions,” said Adil Abdulkhader, a member of Wellness Challengers, a grouping of regular walkers and wellness enthusiasts.With well-maintained tracks, greenery, amenities, eateries, seating, fitness equipment and play areas for kids Qatar’s park is the ideal place for engaging in physical activities, relaxing and gathering.“Parks have started to witness the crowd. The vibrant atmosphere draws them during the evening and morning. Many make use of the good weather to jog and play inside the park. Amidst the lush green spaces, they feel freshness inside the park,” said Jayaram Sajeev, who is a professional physical trainer.The new parks in Qatar have walking and cycling paths. There are dozens of parking spaces including those designated for people with special needs. A large number of solar-powered lighting poles have been installed throughout the park in addition to several surveillance cameras that operate round-the-clock. “The facilities including the availability of amenities and fresh drinking water inside the park are remarkable. The availability of parking lots makes commutation easy. We feel secure and safe while we take the children because the visitors are always under surveillance camera watch,” Adil said.He explained that the vibrant atmosphere and facilities including provision for roller skating and play areas draw children to the parks.The Ministry of Municipality is also keen to hold maintenance ahead of the end of summer in order to facilitate the visitors.Apart from the regular maintenance works, the ministry launched intensive seasonal maintenance for the green areas at the public parks and gardens across Qatar from Sept 15 to Oct 15. This was to prepare them to receive visitors during winter.The number of parks went up by 27% in four years. There were 113 public parks and corniches in 2019 across the country while the number stood at 144 in 2023. The ministry is planning to open 15 new parks this year. Some have already been opened during the first half.There has been a considerable expansion of green spaces across the country, reaching 43sq km, through joint projects between the ministry and other government entities.

Beaches across Qatar are coming alive as winter months approach. Many people have started planning camping and barbecue nights at beaches where weekends see crowds until dawn. The Doha Corniche is also witnessing an increasing number of visitors who spend time with families and friends. Some people come here for jogging and evening and morning walks. Cooler evenings and mornings also bring in an increasing number of fishing enthusiasts.“Thanks to the improving weather conditions, there is a respite from the heatwaves. The pleasant winter is the ideal time to go out, encamp and venture into the sea,” said Al Wakra resident Mohamed Jaseem, who plans to go to Sealine Beach where he will spend a night with family and friends.The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has announced that online registration for the annual winter camping season will start on November 5 and will continue until April 30, 2025. The ministry has completed necessary maintenance works at beaches ahead of the winter season. It has equipped the beaches with facilities and basic amenities.“The remarkable thing about the beaches is that they all are equipped with the necessary facilities. Some beaches have seats and sunshades with toilets and bathing areas. This makes the beaches a favourite weekend destination,” said Doha resident Mohamed Shameer.The Ministry of Municipality has set up walkways, play areas for children, volleyball grounds, food kiosks and BBQ areas with some beaches. Residents complain that some beachgoers fail to comply with the rules, set by the authorities to ensure hygiene and safety of visitors.As per the directions from the Ministry of Municipality, visitors are allowed to light fires for warmth and barbecue once they have provided their identity information to the security guards at the entrance of these places. Charcoal should not be lit directly on the sand; a grill should be used. The remains of burned charcoal and other things should not be left on the beach and should be disposed of safely at designated containers provided by the municipalities across the various beaches. Security personnel would have the authority to conduct spot checks for any violation. In case of violations, they would contact environmental inspectors to issue a violation report against violators in accordance with the Public Hygiene Law, where the fine can amount to a maximum of QR10,000.The Ministry of Municipality earlier announced that it provided services to 28 beaches across the country in order to ensure the comfort of visitors.These beaches include Al Shamal beach, Al Yousifiya beach, Al Arish beach, Marih beach, Ras Matbakh beach, Zekreet beach, Dukhan beach, Umm Hish beach, Umm Bab beach, Al Kharaij public beach, Abu Samrah beach, Al Mafjar beach, Al Ghariya public beach, Fuwairit beach, Al Muruna beach, Al Jassasiya beach, Al Mamlaha beach, Areeda beach, Al Farkiyah beach (families), Saf Al Touk beach, Ras Nouf beach, and Simaisma beach (families). Ras Abu Aboud 974 Beach, Abu Funtas beach, Al Wakrah public beach, Umm Howl family beach and Sealine public beach.

Techno Q is committed to integrating technology with innovation to deliver state-of-the-art security solutions, the company’s senior executive has said on the sidelines of the Milipol Qatar 2024, which concluded yesterday.“Techno Q is at the forefront of meeting the requirements in the security and safety sectors and strives towards achieving the best solutions designed to enhance safety and security across industries,” managing director and co-founder Zeyad al-Jaidah told Gulf Times.At Milipol, Techno Q highlighted groundbreaking security solutions that integrate technology with innovation at its stand D 002. At the event, the regional System Integrator, alongside some of its prominent partners, including industry giants FLIR Systems, Huawei, VEER - Video Analytics, Dahua Technology MENA, Gallagher Security, Milestone Systems, and Prysm Software, spotlighted the latest advancements in security technology from all around the globe.“Milipol is an ideal venue for local companies to reach international collaborators and find opportunities to communicate with industry leaders. The event helps the participants share ideas and exchange experiences in the security industry. We look forward to grabbing new insights in the industry,” he said.Techno Q, at Milipol, lent visitors the opportunity to explore the revolving security industry while learning about its latest security systems and solutions provided through displays and demonstrations by Techno Q experts.Al-Jaidah said that Techno Q provides solutions in audiovisual, extra low voltage, broadcast infrastructure, IT business, lighting systems and hospitality. “Techno Q stands at the forefront of providing comprehensive solutions across Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman while delivering a combination of advanced technology-driven products that significantly heighten property safety and are specifically tailored to meet the nuanced demands of extra-low voltage installations. We provide customised solutions designed to perfectly match the specific demands of the clients while assuring quality.”He explained that Techno Q is implementing numerous projects to reshape the future landscape of security needs in government and private entities while reaching financial, educational, health, hospitality and media institutions along with corporate companies, oil and gas sector, residential projects, retail outlets and sports facilities.Al-Jaidah said the company is looking at expansion plans in Saudi Arabia and Oman. Techno Q promotes young entrepreneurs and tech aspirants while lending them employment opportunities and training in collaboration with universities in Qatar, he added.

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, HE the Minister of Interior and Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani Tuesday opened the 15th edition of the Milipol Qatar at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.The three-day event features an array of innovations, solutions and trends in security and safety sectors. The inaugural ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Iraq's Minister of Interior Lt. Gen. Abdul Amir Kamel al-Shammari and Malaysia's Minister of Home Affairs Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail, senior officials of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and diplomats.Milipol Qatar 2024 demonstrates the latest equipment and devices, innovative services and systems in internal security and civil defence. Speaking to Qatar News Agency on the sidelines of the event, Lt Gen al-Shammari hailed the event noting that the participation of international firms specialising in security underscores the interest of Qatar and the Ministry of Interior (MoI) in cutting-edge technologies for security development.Malaysia's Minister of Home Affairs noted the event assumes importance as it brings together the most prominent international firms operating in the field of homeland security. The global event for homeland security and safety is witnessing the participation of 250 international and national companies specialising in internal security and safety along with six major international pavilions at an area of 23,000 sq m.There is an additional outdoor space showcasing MoI’s fleet of vehicles and innovation in its services. The event has lined up seminars on cybersecurity, civil defence and airport and border security with 15 presentations. A key highlight is the special international conference on artificial intelligence (AI) for homeland security and safety technology, discussing AI innovations and ethics focusing on four main themes: AI and smart technologies, AI in security operations, ethics of AI and security challenges and opportunities in AI.Milipol Qatar 2024 is expected to see a record attendance of over 350 official delegations, demonstrating the global importance of the event which provides opportunities for direct interaction with high-level delegations, military and security leaders, and representatives from government bodies, facilitating contracts and agreements with companies.The event also witnesses the launching of new systems and solutions, providing manufacturers of internal security and safety equipment an opportunity to engage with decision-makers and security experts.

Milipol Qatar Exhibition & Conference 2024 is set to welcome over 250 international and national companies specialising in internal security and safety, along with six major international pavilions. The 15th edition of the international event at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, will cover an area of 23,000 sq m with an additional outdoor space showcasing the Ministry of Interior's fleet of vehicles.“The committee has worked diligently with the French company Comexposium to ensure a comprehensive event showcasing the latest innovations and technologies in security," Milipol Qatar Committee chairman Maj Gen Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani told a press conference Sunday.The three-day event, beginning Tuesday will include seminars on various security topics, such as cybersecurity, civil defence and airport and border security with 15 presentations, he explained.The official noted this edition of Milipol Qatar would see a record attendance of over 350 official delegations, demonstrating the exhibition's global importance. The event provides opportunities for direct interaction with high-level delegations, military and security leaders, and representatives from government bodies, facilitating contracts and agreements with companies. Some exhibitors, will launch new systems and solutions, providing manufacturers of internal security and safety equipment an opportunity to engage with decision-makers and security experts, Maj Gen Nasser al-Thani added.

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the 15th edition of Milipol Qatar is all set to feature innovations in technology and host experts in homeland security under the theme ‘Technology in the Service of Security’.Organised by the Ministry of Interior, the event will be held from October 29-31 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, welcome ministers of interior from friendly and allied nations along with security companies.While addressing a press conference Sunday the Milipol Qatar Committee chairman Maj Gen Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani said the event reflects Qatar's commitment to advancing technological capabilities to meet growing security challenges and support the security needs aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.A key highlight of this edition of Milipol will be a special two-day international conference on artificial intelligence (AI) for homeland security and safety technology, scheduled for October 29-30. Leading global experts will discuss AI innovations and ethics focusing on four main themes: AI and smart technologies, AI in security operations, ethics of AI and security challenges and opportunities in AI.The conference underscores Qatar's pioneering role in the region and internationally, as it addresses complex AI-related security and legal issues, proposing recommendations to guide the positive application of AI technologies for governmental benefit and sustainable development.“This positions Qatar as a pioneer in the region and globally in addressing this complex topic from multiple security and legal perspectives, proposing recommendations for the positive regulation and use of AI technologies to support governments and current technological developments essential for growth,” the official explained.Anne Fresinet, director of the Milipol International Network, emphasised the importance of the event in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving security landscape. "Milipol Qatar offers a platform that brings together governments, sector leaders, and security experts to address ongoing changes in the global security environment. Our primary commitment is to enhance cooperation and showcase solutions that directly address these complex challenges," she said.Member of Milipol Qatar Committee Maj Gen Saud Rashid al-Shafi was present at the press conference which also marked Milipol Qatar Committee signing sponsorship agreements with several companies, including Barzan Holdings, Qatar National Bank, Al Abdulghani Motors, Stark Motors, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana, Teyseer Group, Ooredoo, Al Emadi Enterprises, Eshaar Holding, Qatar Factory, Al Mana Company, Multi Services Company, Audi Qatar and Sports City Advertising.