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A senior FIFA official has hailed Qatar saying FIFA's human rights requirements have been integrated with the work mechanisms of the tournament's Security and Safety Operations Committee. “There is a full engagement with the FIFA security team and the security and safety plans for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have been approved and shared with main stakeholders” said Director of Safety, Security and Access at FIFA, Helmut Spahn. He was addressing the opening ceremony of the Last Mile Conference. He said that the level of integration and partnership has been achieved by the Security and Safety Operations Committee (SSOC) of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. “This puts the FIFA in a position of comfort and reassurance that the preparations will lead us to organize a distinguished tournament. Qatar has spared no effort in the field of international cooperation, which the FIFA has been keen to support from the beginning. Among the achievements of the SSOC are International Police Cooperation Centre, which was established for previous FIFA events; data-sharing agreements with the aim of preventing hooligans from entering the country, partnerships for training and capacity building and signing of many memoranda of understanding with Interpol, Europol, the European Union and many other agencies,” he said. He added that all these achievements were accomplished in the most difficult times that the region went through, which is considered a great achievement that deserves to be commended. “Qatar, despite that, remained one of the safest countries in the world. With the efforts made by Qatar in the areas of planning, FIFA is confident of achieving a safe and secure tournament that reflects a real level of security for all participants,” he said. Stressing on the participation of the FIFA as the organiser of the game, in a large way in preparing for this tournament in Qatar, he said FIFA has been associated with the tournament's Security and Safety Operations Committee (formerly called the Security Committee) since the inception of the Committee in 2012. He praised the teamwork, hard work and tireless efforts made by Qatar and the tournament's Security and Safety Operations Committee. “This achievement would not have been achieved without the high level of preparedness from the authorities in the State of Qatar, and without the collective work with the international bodies responsible for law enforcement,” he said.    

The two-day FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security Last Mile Conference started Sunday at InterContinental Doha under the patronage of of HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Security Committee at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC). The conference is being held by the Safety & Security Operations Committee (SSOC) of the Security Committee, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Maj-Gen Abdul Aziz Abdullah al-Ansari While addressing the opening ceremony, Maj-Gen Abdul Aziz Abdullah al-Ansari, head of the Safety & Security Operations Committee for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, said that the conference represents coordination and cooperation between countries and stakeholders on the international level while acting as a milestone in the journey towards the World Cup. “The best international safety and security standards will be ensured and Qatar’s focus is on hosting the safest and most secure World Cup,” al-Ansari said, adding that Qatar continues to implement measures and preparations to achieve the safety and security. FIFA Director of Security Helmut Spahn He noted that Qatar is among the safest countries with its lowest crime rate and explained that Qatar could successfully organise several major events including the FIFA Arab World Cup while providing the best safety and security services. He noted that Qatar received recognition from the participants for the successful hosting. He explained that the workshops at the conference discuss and agree on safety and security plans while exchanging information between countries and other stakeholders. Pictures: Shaji Kayamkulam Al-Ansari further explained that the country has developed plans while hosting various events while organising events and holding training programmes. FIFA Director of Security Helmut Spahn also addressed the opening session. He noted that Qatar’s efforts are outstanding saying that safety and security plans have been so far signed in and all the objectives will be achieved.

The two-day FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security Last Mile Conference begins Sunday at InterContinental Doha, highlighting Qatar’s security preparedness for the mega event, discussing areas of co-operation and sharing experiences. The conference is being held by the Safety & Security Operations Committee (SSOC) of the Security Committee, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The details of the conference were announced Saturday during a press meet organised by the SSOC. It was addressed by Maj-Gen Abdul Aziz Abdullah al-Ansari, head of the Safety & Security Operations Committee for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022; Brig Ibrahim Khalil al-Mohannadi, head of the Legal Affairs and Communication Unit of the committee; and Brig Abdullah Khalifa al-Muftah, head of the Media Unit. Maj-Gen al-Ansari said the conference is being organised under the patronage of HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Security Committee at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), and with the participation of local, regional and international stakeholders and partners. "The conference will outline Qatar’s security readiness ahead of Qatar 2022, seek to identify the latest preparations for the tournament, enhance police co-operation and monitor the implementation of plans and strategies in collaboration with local, regional and international stakeholders. The event will also ensure co-operation between the tournament organisers and qualified countries," he said. Delegates from the qualified countries and representatives from the United Nations, FIFA, the SC and many international and local entities, along with other stakeholders, will attend the conference, he added. “The agenda includes a tournament overview, security risk assessment, security planning, security procedures at tournament facilities, cybersecurity requirements, and communication and co-operation with international partners. In order to ensure the highest levels of security and stability for all spectators during the 2022 World Cup, the International Police Co-operation Centre (IPCC) has been established in Doha. It’s an operations room managed and supervised by the committee, and it has been provided with the latest advanced technological means and the necessary infrastructure for the centre to perform its role and achieve its objectives. A group of young qualified officers with outstanding skills has also been deployed at the centre,” the official explained. Brig al-Mohannadi said the IPCC plays different roles by exchanging information between Qatar as the host country and the participating and non-participating countries as well as relevant international organisations. He added that the conference will be an opportunity to further enhance co-operation and communication with countries and international and regional organisations. Brig al-Muftah said the conference will discuss various important subjects and the tournament's Safety & Security Operations Committee, since its formation, has sought to implement its security strategy and plans in the field of training and qualifying personnel and to enhance international and regional co-operation with brotherly and friendly countries. The SSOC has also carried out numerous field exercises to ensure that Qatar hosts a safe and secure World Cup.

A workshop organised by the General Directorate of Traffic on Monday discussed the roles and tasks of various stakeholders in addressing the issue of motorcycle accidents involving delivery riders. The workshop, held at the Traffic headquarters in Madinat Khalifa, was organised within the framework of the efforts made by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) to achieve road safety and security, and to reduce the rates of traffic accidents, deaths and severe injuries. It was aimed at providing recommendations and suggestions to contribute to the development of legislation and technical and operational standards that contribute to achieving the highest standards of safety in order to protect lives. Brigadier Dr Mohamed Radi al-Hajri, director of the Traffic Awareness Department, noted that co-operation and joint work between all relevant authorities is important when it comes to reducing motorcycle accidents. The official said an increase in delivery requests is resulting in accidents, which happen almost every day. He said that the workshop is the extension of the continuous efforts undertaken by the General Directorate of Traffic on the best practices and applications in order to achieve the safety of all motorists. The workshop was attended by officials from a number of organisations, including Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar University and the National Traffic Safety Committee (NTSC), in addition to representatives of delivery companies. The workshop was told that the Hamad Trauma Centre, during the first five months of this year, witnessed an increase of around three times in the number of serious motorcycle accident injuries compared to the same period in 2021. The centre provided care to 93 cases of motorcycle delivery drivers with serious injuries in the first quarter of 2022 compared to 29 cases during the same period in 2021. According to figures available with HTC, the current year has so far recorded more than 140 injuries due to motorcycle accidents.    

While featuring a special collection of rare gems and diamonds, leading jewellers Mehta and Sons x Anjali Bhimrajka Fine Jewels is delighting visitors and jewellery enthusiasts at the ongoing Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE). The pioneering jewellers are at the Indian Pavilion where they have set up a luxury jewellery house with a flair for intricate design and impeccable craftsmanship. “We are back in Doha with amazing deals on solitaires with very unique rose-cut collection that are unseen anywhere,” said Mehta and Sons president Narendra Mehta. The stall features singular biggest collection of both Colombian and Zambian emeralds along with Burmese rubies. Mehta said that they are well prepared for DJWE with a collection of special creations for Qatari and Arab buyers apart from the jewellery that suit the tastes of the Indian community. He added that the showcased collections strike a chord with the jewellery lovers in Doha. Mehta and Sons x Anjali Bhimrajka Fine Jewels is known for its classical jewellery collection with beautiful designs. The booth features rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces with various models and specifications. “All are unique and specially made for DJWE,” Mehta said adding that the stall focuses on multi-dimensional designs while highlighting the grandeur of luxurious Indian jewellery. The designs are special with unique finishes and it has diamonds in various finishes and models including the rose-cut diamonds.

A collection of exceptional jewellery pieces has put GEMA in the spotlight at the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE), which began at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre Monday. GEMA, which stems from the long history of Arts and Gems Doha, represents the spirit of Qatari heritage at DJWE. It features a special collection of gems and diamonds that are designed while embodying the spirit of Qatari heritage. A view of the store at DJWE “The collection of pieces that highlight the Qatari pride makes us special. The collection enthuses visitors here by helping them grab their favourite pieces,” Mariam Ali al-Khalaf, owner of GEMA, told Gulf Times. The renowned Qatari designer noted that GEMA was founded by her in order to "go hand in hand" with Arts and Gems that was created by her father and prominent Qatari businessman Ali Hassan al-Khalaf. The brand, according to her, caters to the needs of the modern woman. Al-Khalaf, who exuded confidence in her brand leaving its mark on DJWE, said the exhibition has already evoked a good response and drawn crowds on the opening day. “The response is overwhelming and we expect much in this edition,” she said. Al-Khalaf has been taking part in DJWE since 2015. Al-Khalaf is well prepared for the exhibition, presenting unique necklaces made of diamonds, emeralds and natural pearls. “We are here to make jewellery available at affordable prices while meeting the demands of Qatari customers,” she said, noting that quality and innovation are on the top of GEMA's priorities. “We use only the highest quality gems, natural pearls and precious stones such as diamonds, turquoise and emeralds while making ornaments,” she said. Al-Khalaf, who is a successful entrepreneur and designer, brings gems and diamonds from Hong Kong and India while the designing part is taken care of by herself. “The designing part is done while taking Qatari preferences into account. And the jewellery is manufactured in India as per our requirements while fulfilling the tastes of Qatari customers,” al-Khalaf said.

The trade relations between India and Qatar are registering remarkable growth, Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs V Muraleedharan said in Doha on Sunday. "Trade went up by five times in the last two years while spreading to more sectors," he pointed out while addressing a reception hosted by the Indian Cultural Centre. Muraleedharan is in Qatar on an official tour. The Indian Minister recalled that there is a deep and wide connection between the two countries and the Indian diaspora are nurturing this bond further while working and marking their representation in various sectors. “The two countries enjoy strong bonds in markets and trade along with other sectors. The bilateral cooperation is growing in all growing sectors while providing strong impetus to grow further,” he said, adding that Qatar is present in India’s energy security while India is taking part in Qatar’s food security initiatives. Muraleedharan thanked and hailed the Indian expatriates for playing a major role in strengthening the relations and further enhancing the bond between the two countries. He noted that the current Indian government gives due consideration for the demands of the expatriate community explaining that Indians are leading the whole society in various countries while enjoying representation in various sectors. He noted that HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, during a meeting, praised the Indian community’s contributions to Qatar. ends...    

Fervour and festivities on Monday marked Eid-al-Fitr in Qatar where mosques and prayer grounds hosted Eid special prayers while parks and beaches welcomed the public. Eid prayers started at 5.12 am followed by the special religious sermons in which clerics wished the worshippers prosperity while insisting the importance of upholding virtues. Also, they urged the worshippers to keep the spirit of Eid intact while doing good deeds. The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf), in cooperation with the Ministry of Municipality, had kept 520 mosques and prayer grounds across the country ready to host Eid Al Fitr congregations. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) deployed traffic and internal security force personnel at mosque and prayer ground premises where the officials worked while ensuring smooth traffic flow on the roads. Many opted to go to prayer grounds in order to feel the Eid spirit in an open atmosphere. “The weather was good and we had all the reasons to choose prayer grounds. Prayer grounds seemed to be special as they very much depicted the joyous mood while highlighting the fact that we are entering to a new period while getting rid of the looming apprehensions of Covid-19,” said Abdul Rasheed PP. The Al Wukair resident, along with his friends, attended the prayers at the prayer ground at Al Wakra. Further, prayer grounds lent the worshippers an opportunity to meet and greet on the special occasion. “I could meet some of my relatives and friends while performing the prayers with them. Some of them I met unexpectedly,” said Hubaib Nandi, who prayed at the prayer ground at Al Arabi Sports Club Stadium. Meanwhile, parks and beaches recorded a huge flow of crowd that flocked to celebrate Eid by Monday afternoon. The Ministry of Municipality has put special measures in place and deployed cleaning staff across the beaches and parks in order to ensure the convenience of the visitors. Also, necessary equipment to carry the cleaning operations are in place along with additional garbage containers.    

With only a few days remaining for Eid al-Fitr, souqs and shops in Doha and elsewhere are witnessing hectic activity. These include the ever-popular Souq Waqif in the heart of Qatar's capital, where people are turning up in big numbers to buy perfumes, clothes, gifts, sweets and nuts. Over the past few days, Qataris as well as expatriates have been flocking to the shops at Souq Waqif in preparation for Eid al-Fitr, bringing cheer to the merchants there. “The shops have been witnessing a rush of customers and we are prepared to cater to the needs of buyers with new stocks,” said a cloth merchant, Saleem M K, whose store is located in the southern corner of Souq Waqif. Thobes are among the most sought-after clothing items, whether readymade or tailored. “Most of grown-up men and male kids select clothes by the middle of Ramadan and we stitch them accordingly,” he added. Tailoring shop owners are accepting no more bookings now and it is time to deliver their previously received orders, Gulf Times learnt. “We have had enough orders and our tailors have been busy working on them to deliver items like thobes on time,” said another merchant, Abdul Rasheed. Qatari women opt for abayas and jalabiyas, which are also either readymade or stitched in tailoring shops. These comes in various designs and colours, though traditional patterns are generally in high demand. Some expatriates also opt for thobes while others prefer kurtas, kameez, shirts and trousers. The shops also get women customers looking for churidars. A variety of children's clothes are also available, both for girls and boys. The traditional headgear (gahfiya) is also an integral part of clothing for Qataris. There are shops specialising in selling gahfiya and other accessories such as iqal, the traditional black cord worn on the ghutra (scarf). Buttons, beads and watches are also sold at the shops and these are available in multiple designs and sizes. Some buy these for personal use while others gift them to friends or relatives during the Eid celebrations. Perfume and oud sales have also gone up at Souq Waqif, where shop owners offer locally made and imported items at different prices. Mohamed Iqbal, a perfume seller, said Eid is a time for Qataris to buy perfumes and watches. “We have a wide range of local and imported brands,” he said. Iqbal’s shop also has a variety of hennas and cosmetics for women customers.    

Malaysia is planning big on promoting palm oil in Qatar while chalking out a slew of measures. Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities of Malaysia Zuraida Kamaruddin, who was in Qatar recently, said several plans are in place and the government is holding discussions with various stakeholders in order to promote palm oil for domestic and industrial consumption. The Malaysian minister told a media gathering that talks are on with Qatar government entities and industrialists. Zuraida Kamaruddin was in town on a two-day mission as part of her Economic and Agri Commodities Promotion Mission, to promote Agri Malaysia International Agriculture Technology Exhibition, to be held in Kuala Lumpur on September 20-22. The Malaysian minister, earlier, chaired a roundtable meeting with Qatar's Minister of Municipality HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, HE the Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Qassim al-Abdullah al-Thani, HE the Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani along with Qatari agri commodities players and company representatives. Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin said they have reached an agreement with retail chains including LuLu and Al Meera to promote domestic use of palm oil. As part of the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities (MPIC) initiatives in promoting Malaysian agri commodity products, there are also plans to promote rubber and timber in Qatar. The minister was accompanied by Malaysian experts and company representatives who held talks with Qatari companies. The minister noted there is an increase in palm oil consumption in the Qatari market and this is excellent news to the industry players and market onlookers. “This shows Malaysia is prepared to meet the encouraging demand for palm oil from the Qatari market. A few promising ideas, such as exploring the applications of the rubberised road in Qatar are being discussed and Malaysia is hopeful that the initiatives will benefit all involved parties,” she said. According to statistics from the Malaysian embassy, Malaysian Palm Oil Board anticipated crude palm oil production to improve by 4.9% to 19mn tonnes this year, from 18.12mn tonnes in 2021, resulting in palm oil stocks increasing 21.1% to 1.95 mn tonnes, from 1.61 mn tonnes in 2021. The Malaysian minister earlier visited Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Egypt. Among the achievements are proposals to establish joint venture partnerships in India and Pakistan. She noted that there are also proposals from Qatar and Egypt to invest with Malaysian companies to set up production facilities in Malaysia. The press conference was attended by MPIC deputy secretary general Mad Zaidi bin Mohd Karli and Malaysian ambassador Zamshari Shaharan.    

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has set sustainability as a means of achieving value while implementing its development projects across Qatar, an official has stressed. “We have implemented sustainability best practices in the ‘Infrastructure Programme for Areas’ while yielding environmental benefits and helping the country realise better value,” said Ashghal’s Doha City section head Mooza al-Sowaidi. She was talking in a podcast episode by WSP Middle East, a leading consulting firm, about Ashghal’s strategy for continuous development. Al-Sowaidi elaborated on Ashghal’s continuous development strategy while discussing how Ashghal’s continuous improvement is part of a vision that focuses on delivering world-class infrastructure and creating the best national capabilities and utmost support to the local manufacturers and contractors. While giving instances for the sustainability-incorporated development model adopted by Ashghal, al-Sowaidi said recycled milled asphalt is used within the base course of new and upgraded roads, which helped Ashghal achieve cost savings. “We also used crumb rubber in the wearing course to reduce the environmental impact of waste tyres and increase the durability of our roads. We have also recently piloted the use of solar panels for temporary site lighting in replacement of the traditional diesel-powered lights that cause a lot of noise and affect the air quality of construction site,” she explained. “The clarity of our vision and our agile adaptability to change are two of the main factors that contributed to the progress we achieved in delivering large-scale road and infrastructure projects within short schedules and without compromising the best international standards for quality, safety and sustainability." In response to a question about Ashghal’s success in achieving the best value for the budgets assigned to the 'Infrastructure Programme for Areas', al-Sowaidi pointed out that Ashghal used a special gateway system for design approvals. “Each project would have to pass certain gateways to ensure that the best design options have been identified and the optimum concept has been implemented all the way until the project completion. Ashghal also used value engineering to achieve considerable cost savings in the design and construction phases,” she explained. On delivering large-scale projects to realise Qatar National Vision 2030, the official pointed out that Ashghal opened communication channels with the construction and engineering industry to brief them about its plans and the standards that the authority aspires to achieve in addition to the challenges facing project delivery. “Ashghal has also invested a lot of effort in creating local capabilities and reaching out to local contractors and manufacturers providing them with all possible support. These efforts are part of Ashghal’s contribution to Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasises the importance of building a sustainable world-class infrastructure for Qatar’s economic and social development,” she noted. Asked about Ashghal’s success in responding to change within the last few years, she pointed out that the authority has implemented several strategies to realise this success. “Ashghal shared its vision with its local and international industry partners to ensure that all materials and resources are supplied on a timely basis using Qatari manufacturers. Ashghal also opened communication channels with all relevant stakeholders to uncover the challenges, set optimised protocols and procedures, and exchange thoughts on the best ways to achieve infrastructure delivery,” she said. Ashghal has adopted several contractual enhancements within its 'Infrastructure Programme for Areas'. One of these enhancements is lean construction, a set of techniques and principles that are based on collaborative planning within each project. Through the use of lean construction, Ashghal could achieve better decisions, and firm change and contingency management.    

While adding another remarkable achievement to its credit, the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar has completed the 61% works of Furjan Parks. A total of 15 parks are set up across Qatar as part of the committee’s efforts to humanise cities and change a car-centric culture to a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly culture. Also, Furjan parks aim to create recreational spaces and plazas that contribute to encouraging families to lead a healthy lifestyle and practice sports from nearby enjoyable destinations just outside their closed doors.The project is implemented by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). Ashghal on Sunday tweeted that the construction works of these parks will be completed by the third quarter of 2022. Last year, the Supervisory Committee, in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality, launched a strategic plan to build parks that serve tourists and visitors across the country. The strategic plan also includes implementing small green spaces such as Al Furjan Parks that serve residents of specific neighbourhoods while creating green plazas implemented in various locations to help protect the environment. The parks are designed to be close to homes, easily reachable by pedestrians or cyclists, which encourage the people of the area to visit them regularly and spend quality time in a healthy and safe environment, which enhances social gathering and communication. The parks are basically constructed to act as a breather for community members and they increase green area and improving quality of life, and are considered as natural filters to purify the air from carbon emissions, one important factor in increasing the share of each person per square metre of green space. The parks include many features that make it an enjoyable destination for all family members, including elderly, youth and children. These features and services vary according to the area of the park, such as pedestrian and cyclist paths, seats, and some parks include kids’ play areas, fitness equipment, kiosks, and others. Elderly people and people with special needs are also taken into consideration in the designs. Two of these parks are located in Al Rayyan Municipality including Al Soudan Park on an area of 2300 sq.m and Fereej Al Thameed Park to be built on 15,750 sq mt. The third park located in Doha Municipality at Hazam Al Markhiya is to be built on an area of about 24,340 sq.m. Also, parks are built Al Thumama in Doha Municipality and Al Wajbah in Al Rayyan Municipality. The project features three parks in Al Wakra Municipality. These are in addition to the parks at Rawdat Egdaim and Al Mearad in Al Rayyan Municipality and parks at Al Sailiya, Bu Hamour and Al Daayen.      

* Anita Yusof is the first Malaysian to get into the Asia Book of Records for the longest solo bike ride    Famous Malaysian solo motorcycle rider Anita Yusof was in Qatar while exploring the Gulf on her Yamaha FZ 150. Described as the first Muslim woman to ride around the world solo, she visited Qatar during her Global Dream Ride. Anita, the first Malaysian to get into the Asia Book of Records for the longest solo bike ride, told Gulf Times in a statement that she is looking to spread the message of empowering women. “This is my second world ride and I want to tell the women, especially those from the remote places, to pursue education and break the barriers," said the 55-year-old former lecturer in the physical education department at IPG Campus Ipoh and mother of two sons. Anita learned motorcycle riding in 2012 and started her first round the world ride in 2015. The ride, which started from Putrajaya in Malaysia, saw her covering 40 countries in four continents over a year. Anita covered a total distance of 65,369km before returning home.   Anita said she loves to travel and the passion for solo trips developed after she was inspired by bloggers. “I wanted to explore myself and I chose to travel on bike in order to explore remote places where transportation isn’t easy,” she said. The solo rider has so far visited more than 60 countries on her motorbike. During the current ride, she aims to visit 70 countries while covering seven continents. In between she had to take a break after the Covid-19 pandemic broke out. She stored her bike in Ethiopia and went home. “I follow my heart. This time, I travel without any time frame since I have taken an early retirement from my job,” she said. Travelling and passion towards motorcycles have made Anita a technical expert capable of fixing her bike if required during the ride. “I am very well aware of the technical aspects and I am equipped with essential tools,” she said. While visiting countries, Anita spends time learning about their culture and communities. “The most beautiful part of my journey is meeting local people. I stay with them while learning about their cultures and enjoy their cuisine,” she said. Anita has no plans to quit after this ride. "I will always travel. I will choose other modes of travel if health does not allow me to ride,” she said. The solo rider was given a reception by Malaysian ambassador Zamshari Shaharan. She also attended a Iftar programme by the collective of Malaysian bikers in Qatar. After a tour of Qatar, she left for the UAE yesterday. “The most beautiful part of my journey is meeting local people. I stay with them while learning about their cultures and enjoy their cuisine,”    

*Deadline to remove winter camps is May 14   The 2021/2022 winter camping season will conclude on May 2 while the deadline to remove the camps is May 14, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has announced. Addressing a press conference at the ministry’s headquarters on Monday, MoECC officials said the May 14 deadline was set in order to provide campers with the opportunity to continue camping during the Eid al-Fitr holidays. Also, for the first time and in order to achieve community participation, the ministry will issue a questionnaire to ascertain campers' opinions about the camping season and also conduct a study in co-operation with Qatar University on the social and environmental effects of camping. The press conference was attended by Farhoud Hadi al-Hajri, director of Public Relations, and Salem Hussein al-Safran, assistant director of the Department of Natural Reserves and vice-chairman of the Winter Camping Organising Committee. The MoECC praised the co-operation of camp owners during the camping season, which lasted for six months. It also noted the co-operation of various ministries and institutions in the country with regard to the procedures and requirements for maintaining security, safety and public health at all camps, which contributed to the success of the season. Al-Safran said about 395 tonnes of waste have been removed from 1,626 camps since the start of the camping season in November 2021, with 305 containers provided for this purpose. This has been done in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality, represented by the General Cleanliness Department. He called on all campers to dismantle and remove all camps by the deadline and cautioned that specialised environmental teams would carry out inspections and follow-up operations after this date and take legal action in case of any violations. Al-Hajri said a preliminary study will be conducted by the ministry, in co-operation with QU, on the impact and evaluation of camps during the camping season on the environment from the social and environmental perspectives. “The study will address the negative effects on the environment, arising from the camping season. while assessing the impact on meadows, plants and wild animals, coasts and beaches. Also, it will analyse the impact of camp waste and sewage on the environment during the camping season, migration of birds, impact of camp waste and sanitation on the environment during the camping season and the impact of winter camping on the movement and reproduction of living creatures, especially non-compliance with environmental requirements in this regard,” he explained. The MoECC, within the framework of its keenness to develop and modernise the winter camping season in coming years, will issue a questionnaire on its website in order to ascertain campers' opinion about the 2022 camping season. It is to be filled out before the process of refunding the security deposit. The survey will be conducted in order for the ministry to achieve its vision and mission, he said, adding that the results will be announced later. The official stressed that conducting the study aims to involve citizens in choosing what suits them regarding the winter camping season, adding that the ministry believes in the importance of popular participation and achieving the principle of transparency in all matters related to camping. The survey will seek suggestions from campers on how to reduce the effects of negative practices during a camping season, as well as on suitable periods and areas for camping.    

With Qatar gearing up to celebrate the annual traditional Garangao night, Souq Waqif is witnessing a huge turnout of Qatari families looking to buy sweets and gifts for children. Shop owners told Gulf Times that sales have been quite high for the past few days. “Families come after Iftar and business continues until dawn,” said Khaleel Hashim, a merchant at the souq. “Shops that sell Garangao gifts and sweets are seeing good sales.” Garangao is celebrated on the 14th night of Ramadan, which will be this Friday. Children turn up in traditional clothes after Iftar and walk around their neighbourhoods, singing the Garangao song and receiving goodies in cloth bags as gifts from neighbours. Sweets, nuts, toys and other gifts are given on the occasion. The idea is to reward children for their efforts while fasting during the first half of Ramadan and encourage them to continue with this spirit during the second half. “The good days are back after two years of the pandemic and everything is available here. Buyers pick nuts, sweets, chocolates, toys, dry fruits, lamps, candies and toffees,” Hashim said. “Special Garangao kits are available with various types of nuts and sweets.” Many customers opt for the Garangao kits, with the price ranging from QR50-QR600, depending on their content and quality. There are also special toys with recordings of Garangao songs. These are used by children as they walk on the streets collecting goodies. “Everything is available here, and we have made all kinds of preparations for the occasion since the first of Ramadan,” said another merchant, Abu Ghali. “It is very important for Qatari families to celebrate Garangao night.” According to the sellers, prices have come down this year due to an increase in sales. Special dresses for Garangao are also in high demand and have been displayed since the start of Ramadan. Some like to order dresses in advance while others prefer ready-made garments. Children’s dresses are available from QR50.    

* Fans have to play big part by using recyclable water bottles, making use of Metro and using environmentally friendly scooters and bicycles     The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be a benchmark for sustainability and carbon neutrality through the implementation of a slew of measures, ranging from sustainable stadiums to eco-friendly transportation. This was highlighted by Bodour al-Meer, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC)'s Sustainability director, during a global virtual event held yesterday to celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) 2022 by the United Nations (UN). Speaking on the 'Role of sport in combating climate change', al-Meer said Qatar considered the potential impact on the environment while designing the World Cup stadiums and planning the mega event. “Climate modeling was conducted to identify temperatures in 2022 and to assess other climate change impacts. Infrastructure and cooling systems were set up while making sure that our stadiums are ready for the future,” she noted. Hosted by UN Under-Secretary-General Melissa Fleming, the programme featured remarks from high-level UN officials and signatories of UN Climate Action frameworks. It was also attended by HE Qatar's Permanent Representative to the UN, ambassador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani. Asked about the measures to curb carbon emissions, al-Meer said Qatar has made all efforts to become a role model in fighting climate change while hosting the World Cup. “We have all eyes on us. We have to set a benchmark and be a role model in this regard. We are responsible and do the right things through mitigating and implementing our offset programmes. We have worked hard to build environmentally friendly stadiums," she said, explaining that these stadiums are 30% more energy-efficient than international benchmarks and use 40% less water than international standards. Further, al-Meer noted that Qatar has worked with all its stakeholders to lower carbon emissions. “We have worked with our energy, accommodation, logistics and catering partners while supporting and encouraging them and partnering their journey to lower carbon emissions,” she said. The SC official stressed that all concerned have to play their role in this regarding while attending the World Cup. “Environmental sustainability is an equal responsibility. And it starts with small things. Fans and audiences have to play a big part in this regard by using recyclable water bottles, making use of the Metro and using environmentally friendly scooters and bicycles for transportation,” she said. On her part, HE Sheikha Alya noted that Qatar is committed to delivering the first carbon-neutral World Cup. “The urgency for climate action is felt everywhere. Sport is another tool to address climate change,” she said, adding that Qatar has been investing heavily to make the World Cup carbon-neutral. “We maintain this aspect while delivering energy-efficient stadiums, providing a low-emission transportation system, having plastic neutrality and dealing with waste management. All these show how important it is for us to make the World Cup really address climate change,” she said and gave the example of Stadium 974 in Doha, which was built using shipping containers and recycled steel.    

Times and trends may change, but there are some things that have a lasting appeal – such as spending time with family and friends at Souq Waqif during Ramadan. Known as one of Qatar’s biggest tourist attractions, Souq Waqif in the heart of Doha attracts a large number of visitors with its old-world charm, Arab and Qatari heritage, cafes and culinary offerings, and shops selling various kinds of products. Ramadan is a time when the elegant nights that one associates with the souq come alive with the spirit of the holy month. During this period, Souq Waqif becomes a must-visit destination for many, especially Qataris, as they turn up in big numbers after the Taraweeh prayers to chat over a cup of coffee, check out the stores or simply walk down the lanes and alleys of the souq, discussing life and what it has to offer. “Ramadan is the time to purify the soul and strengthen the relation with Almighty God,” said Jassim Abdurahman al-Mannai, who found a place with his friends in front of a coffee shop in the southern corridor of souq. “We fast during our days while getting engaged in prayers and reciting the Holy Qur’an.” “The evenings are for strengthening relations with our fellow beings,” he added. “We come here and meet while chatting and sharing Qahwa, the traditional Arabic coffee. The souq is a legacy that we keep intact by coming here.” Decked up with lights, the shops at souq are arranged in an attractive way. Visitors are greeted by an eclectic mix of fragrances – from perfumes to mouthwatering dishes and the unmissable scent of antiques displayed in the stores. The cuisine on offer includes Qatari, Lebanese, Egyptian, Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, each with its unique appeal. Nuts and sweets shops are also among the major attractions during Ramadan. And of course, there is shisha – which is offered at a number of cafes in the souq. “Souq Waqif is an important destination during Ramadan nights as most of us abstain from going out during the days and spend the time in prayers and engaging in religious activities,” said Youssef Mousa Abu Halika, who runs a shop there. “Besides its elegance, the souq offers excellent services and reasonable prices. Everyone can enjoy a special Ramadan night here.” He added that the souq is dear to all irrespective of age and nationality – the young and the old, Qataris and expatriates – everyone comes to the souq after the Taraweeh prayers. Youngsters hang out until the time of Suhoor while elders find a place to sit to share some beautiful Ramadan moments and enjoy meals such as kebabs. “Everything is available here at moderate prices,” al-Mannai said. “The souq beckons all. Expatriates and tourists have a good time here as the market is an ideal place for families to shop and for children to entertain. Ahead of Garangao, children flock to buy their favourite gifts and sweets.” “This is a wonderful place. We come here regularly throughout the year,” said another visitor. “The place becomes even more charming during Ramadan and has a wonderful ambiance.” The Ramadan nights also enable the merchants to do some brisk business as many tourists evince interest in their products.      

The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) on Wednesday announced its Hayya Card programme and launched the accommodation booking website for fans attending this year's FIFA World Cup, which will take place from November 21 to December 18. Saeed al-Kuwari, executive director of Hayya at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), said at a press conference Wednesday that fans should apply for a Hayya Card, which will be mandatory to attend matches after purchasing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tickets. He noted that the Hayya Card will provide a number of benefits, including free public transport for ticket holders on match days. It will also act as an entry permit to Qatar for international visitors. Match ticket holders will be able to apply for a Hayya Card via Qatar2022.qa and the 'Hayya to Qatar 2022' mobile application on iOS and Android. He explained that there are two parts when it comes to applying for the card. The first part relates to people from outside the country who have international documents. These people have to follow the correct procedures, which are buying tickets and verifying them, reserving the place of accommodation and verifying it, and then applying for the card. The second part relates to people inside the country who are holders of ID cards. They have to take two steps, the first is to buy the ticket and then apply for the Hayya Card. “Once the card is approved, its digital copy can be downloaded onto a person’s smartphone,” he explained, stressing that purchasing the ticket is mandatory before obtaining the card. Concerning fans from neighbouring countries who wish to come and return on the same day, al-Kuwari said they have the option of staying for one day, and this option will be available through the platform. Service centres to print the Hayya Card will be announced and launched soon, he added. “Based on our previous experiences, we were able to enhance and simplify the registration process. It’ll be a completely different experience this time. Things have been made more simple with features," he added. Fans from outside Qatar can now book accommodation via the dedicated Host Country Accommodation Portal, which will offer various options throughout the year such as apartments, villas and cruise ship cabins. Fans can also book accommodation through traditional means, such as hotel and holiday accommodation websites. Omar Abdulrahman al-Jaber, executive director of the SC Housing Department, advised those who have bought tickets to book their accommodation early. He revealed the details of the Host Country Accommodation Portal, noting that it is main portal for booking accommodation and has been planned over a long time in order to offer a variety of options on one platform, providing fans with exclusive accommodation solutions and options to be announced in the coming period. He underlined that the SC seeks to achieve urban sustainability through this platform after the end of the tournament. Al-Jaber said the portal provides World Cup fans with high-level accommodation options, such as local and international hotels with a rating of 3, 4 and 5 stars, in addition to apartments and villas that have been equipped as residential units and provide housing services with 5-star hotel quality. These units are located in more than one area in the country at varying prices. The options also include 28,000 housing rooms provided by Barwa Real Estate Company, in addition to 'floating hotels' in the form of two luxury cruise ships, docked at Doha Port, only a 10-minute ride from Souq Waqif. The two ships will offer 4,000 cabins that can accommodate more than 8,000 fans. The 'floating hotels' will offer a variety of room options, from traditional cabins overlooking the sea to rooms with balconies and luxurious suites. Each 'floating hotel' will also offer multiple dining possibilities and entertainment programmes for all ages. The 'floating hotels' will offer the opportunity to enjoy "exceptional services, amazing facilities, great food and amazing entertainment" during the mega event. There will also be residential villages in four locations, one of which is Lusail, that will provide 2,500 housing units. The accommodation options meet government compliance standards for real estate and will be managed by a dedicated hospitality service provider during the event to ensure people have a comfortable stay. Also, a wide range of world-renowned hotels and hospitality services will be available. The accommodation options provide a range of hotels to suit all budgets and requirements. Meanwhile, the Fans Village will give fans the experience of "living in a festival". Serviced apartments and villas will be available for visiting fans to experience the tournament as if they were at home and in their countries. The platform offers options for booking from one to six bedrooms with full kitchens, living rooms and other home amenities. He said there are plenty of properties in and around Doha where fans can find exactly what they need. Mohamed al-Kuwari, representative of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security and Safety Operations Committee, said the committee is working with its local, regional and international partners in the organisational, security and military sectors to ensure a safe experience for fans during the World Cup. He underlined that the committee will spare no effort to enhance the security and safety of the public and all those in the country with the highest security standards. He indicated that Hayya Card is mandatory for all fans to enter the country and the tournament stadiums during the World Cup period, adding that the card provides its owner with a multi-entry permission and a number of features to facilitate security measures during the tournament, aiming to ensure the safety and security of fans. Mohamed Rashid al-Khanji, Local and Regional Media expert at the SC, said the organisers strive to make the fans' experience a unique one during the event. The SC has advised fans to note that Covid-19 requirements will be dependent on the latest guidelines from Qatar's Ministry of Public Health and will be announced in due course. Qatar is preparing to host the most compact version of the FIFA World Cup in modern history. All the stadiums are within close proximity of central Doha, helping cut travel costs for fans while significantly reducing the event's carbon footprint. (With inputs from Qatar News Agency)