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* Ministry has provided all facilities for violators to correct their legal status The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has reiterated that the people concerned should make use of the grace period announced for violators of the provisions of Law No 21 for 2015, regulating the entry and exit of expatriates and their residence. The ministry has extended the deadline to March 31 in order to enable the maximum number of violators to make use of the grace period. While addressing a press conference Wednesday, officers from the Search and Follow Up Department and Unified Services Department said the departments are keen to consider the interests of company owners and expatriate workers and there is a 50% reduction in the violation settlement amount. ____________________________________ Read also: MoI assures no legal action against beneficiaries of grace period ____________________________________ “The ministry has provided all facilities for the violators to correct their legal status while they are inside the country by transferring from one employer to another or by leaving the country on their own while exempting them from all consequences of legal responsibility,” said Captain Kamal Tahir al-Tayri from the Search and Follow Up Department.        Target groups of the Search and           Follow Up Department * Expatriates who came to Qatar for work and stay in the country violating the residency law by not obtaining or not renewing the residence permit within the prescribed period and who have exceeded a period of 90 days from the validity date, and their employers haven’t filed an absconding complaint against them. * Expatriates who came to Qatar for work and stay in the country violating the law and an absconding complaint (Leaving the work – Violation of the purpose) has been filed against them by the employers, but 30 days haven’t been completed from the date of filing the complaint. * According to the procedure in the above two cases, the Search and Follow Up Department will ensure the departure of the violators after exempting them from all consequences of legal responsibility and they can return to Qatar on another visa. * Family residence permit holders and visitors who have violated the period of stay. * The expatriates who have violated the law and an absconding complaint (Leaving the work – Violation of the purpose) has been filed against them and more than 30 days have passed from the date of filing of the complaint. * Expatriates whose residence permits have been cancelled and have passed 90 days from the date of cancellation. The procedure in the above three cases, the Search and Follow Up Department will ensure the departure of the violators, while they can return to Qatar if they leave the country after accepting the legally recommended reconciliation. In all cases, the deportation of the minors under the age of 18 will be without a ban to return to Qatar, regardless of their violation of the provisions of the law, and they are exempted from any legal consequences. Captain Mohamed Ali al-Rashid from the Unified Services Department said the deadline was extended as part of MoI’s Guidelines for Taking Advantage of Grace Period. He also called upon people whose status has not been legalised by changing the employer during the given period - due to a failure to obtain approval from the competent authority because of not meeting the required legal conditions - to contact the relevant authorities and complete their procedures in accordance with the provisions of the law as the purpose of their stay in the country has ended. This is in order to leave the country soon and take advantage of the facilities granted during this period before its expiry and return to the country according to the procedures and conditions established by law. “The persons wishing to leave the country on their own during the grace period should adhere to the precautionary measures related to the travel policy of the destination country when leaving the country, as there were some problems related to vaccination and quarantine specified at the intended travel destination and also to follow the time limit of 10 days from the date of issuing the travel permit, set by the Search and Follow Up Department when completing the departure procedures,” he said. Speaking on the features of the grace period, Capt al-Tayri said the current grace period is distinctive from the previous one as it gives an opportunity to violators to correct their legal status by allowing them to change the employer in accordance with the regulations recognised by the competent authority, and exempting 50% of the fines imposed on them. In addition, it exempts violating expatriates who wish to leave the country on their own from legal responsibility. “The role of the Search and Follow Up Department is limited to ensuring the departure of the violating expatriates who wish to leave the country voluntarily, in a humane manner. It reflects the pioneering role of the State of Qatar in the field of human rights. The departure of violating expats is secured by exempting them from the fines incurred by them and without bearing any responsibility, and their transaction is completed as quickly and smoothly as possible without any delay,” he said. The violating expatriates have to approach the main reception of the Search and Follow Up Department with his/her passport and an open ticket, and the staff concerned will verify the data and complete all necessary procedures. Upon completion, a travel permit is issued to the violating person and hands it over to him to go to the airport as per the schedule mentioned on the ticket as an ordinary passenger. “The whole procedure at our department will not be taking more than three minutes and we will receive the applicants from 1pm to 6pm from Sunday to Thursday,” he added.

Prominent Islamic scholar Khaled Abu Moza has said entering mosques with Covid-19 infection is a sin, urging worshippers to adhere strictly to the Covid-19 precautionary measures. Speaking to Qatar TV, the preacher and Islamic educational lecturer said worshippers must ensure that they are not infected, and urged those infected to pray at home. “The infected persons must pray at home for the safety of others as whoever enters the mosque while infected is considered a sinner,” he said. Stressing the need to adhere to the necessary procedures when entering the mosque in order to limit the spread of Covid-19, he explained that worshippers must show the green status on Ehteraz and follow other relevant instructions as well. The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs has put several precautionary measures in place for mosque-goers in order to ensure the safety of worshippers and the society in general. These include showing the Ehteraz green status to staff before entering the mosque and bringing their own prayer mat. Also, the ministry has asked worshippers to wear masks and urged all who suffer from cold, cough and high temperature not to go to the mosque. Maintaining adequate distance during prayers is also mandatory.    

The Police College will be turned into an academy by next year, becoming a comprehensive entity that will bring together the training and education sectors at the Ministry of Interior (MoI), a senior official has said. This comes as part of a series of developments witnessed by the college since its establishment in 2013, Police College director-general Brigadier Abdul Rahman Majid al-Sulaiti said during his speech at the graduation ceremony of the fourth batch of student candidates yesterday. The college's ambition does not stop at a certain limit in the development process and it will move steadily towards transforming it into a police academy by next year, he noted. The official appreciated the great support provided by the wise leadership to the institution, which has witnessed development and excellence over the past eight years. Brigadier al-Sulaiti then referred to the development process that the college has seen since its establishment at various educational, academic and training levels. "The Police College pays most of its attention towards advancing the educational and training process in order to achieve the vision of the country’s wise leadership, which provides all possibilities for investment in education and placing it at the top of its priorities as it is an engine of development and one of the social rights enjoyed by Qatari citizens,” he said. Brigadier al-Sulaiti said the Police College has taken a unique path in the field of training, inspired by the best practical experiences, noting that it has achieved advanced positions in sports tournaments at the local and international levels. At the scientific and research levels, he explained that the college has issued a scientific journal specialised in legal and security studies, in which a group of professors in the legal and police fields took part. With regard to co-operation with its counterparts around the world, he said the college has joined a number of relevant federations, starting with the International Association of Police Academies (Interpa). "This was considered a great achievement for the college,” he added. Brigadier al-Sulaiti congratulated the graduates, calling on them to persevere, give, take responsibility, serve the country, protect its gains with honesty, sincerity and dedication, and deal with citizens, residents and visitors with respect and appreciation. The Police College celebrated the graduation of the fourth batch of 90 students, including 85 Qatari students from the Ministry of Interior, a number of military authorities in the country, and five students from Palestine. With the graduation of this new batch, the number of students who graduated from the college in the four batches reached about 420, including a number of students from Arab countries. (With inputs from QNA)    

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on Thursday attended the graduation ceremony of the fourth batch of the Ministry of Interior's Police College at its headquarters in Al Sailiya where the Amir witnessed a colourful parade amid joyous mood. The function was also attended by ministers, senior MoI officials and representatives from various sisterly Arab and other countries.  A total of 91 candidates including students from Palestine graduated and the function was held amid Covid-19 precautionary and preventive measures. Also, Amir presented prizes to graduates who excelled in various fields during the study and training at the college. The function also witnessed a parade by the members of Officers of Tomorrow programme being implemented by the Police College. The graduates perform military shows of infantry, formations, and movements with weapons. The parade by the students heralded the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as the cadets formed into ‘We Welcome the World 2022’. While addressing the function, Director General of the Police College Brigadier Abdul Rahman Majid al-Sulaiti said the officers were given training in various fields and they can serve the country and the community well. He asked the graduates to keep their pledge to their country and the people and treat the citizens and residents equally while respecting them and their rights. 

While affirming his country's keenness to strengthen co-operation with Qatar, Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Mustafa Sentop said Wednesday in Doha that steps are being taken to enhance the bilateral ties. "An agreement to strengthen parliamentary relations between the two countries has been signed earlier in the day," he told a press conference at the Turkish embassy. The memorandum of understanding was signed between HE the Speaker of the Shura Council Hassan bin Abdullah al-Ghanem and Sentop after the duo held an official meeting. The MoU envisages co-operation between the Grand National Assembly of Turkey and Qatar Shura Council. Sentop noted that experience and expertise in law-making will be shared between the two countries while the MoU will help legislators of the two countries understand the proceedings and working mechanism followed by the legislative house of Qatar and Turkey. “It aims to strengthen relations, coordinate positions in parliamentary forums, exchange experiences between the two sides, and deepen coordination on joint initiatives,” he explained. The speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly hailed Qatar for selecting the Shura Council members through democratic process, saying it's a good example. “Turkey is glad to see the end of the Gulf crisis. The security of the Gulf is one of Turkey's security. Turkey wants Qatar and the Gulf region to live in stability and peace,” he said. Sentop stated Turkey is happy to see the great steps that Qatar is taking to host the FIFA 2022 World Cup, pointing out that his country will support Qatar for the mega event. “Turkey is part of the infrastructure works in Qatar and our security forces are set to assist Qatar,” he added.

President of National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces, Salem al-Meslet, has thanked Qatar for its firm and continuing support to Syrians while taking up efforts to solve the existing crisis. Addressing a press conference at the Syrian embassy in Doha Tuesday, he noted that Qatar is extending support at political, humanitarian, relief and other levels to solve the crisis. Al-Meslet explained that Qatar has affirmed its stand to continue the support and HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani assured him of further humanitarian aid for Syrian people. “We have seen from the Qatari brothers their firmness while supporting the Syrian cause and the Syrian people, and our meeting with Qatari officials was distinctive and positive,” he said, adding that consultation with Doha is important and continuous. “We need our brothers and listen to their point of view, and we need to search for and speed up finding a solution in order to end the Syrian suffering,” he said. Al-Meslet pointed out that the trilateral Qatar-Russia-Turkey coalition that was established in Doha last year has made some progress while working to solve the crisis. He said that he held conversations with UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen and US embassy Doha charge d’affaires Natalie A Baker. “The National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces is working hard in co-operation with various parties in Syria and abroad to ease the sufferings and lift the siege imposed by the Syrian regime on various areas,” he said adding that the coalition took many steps to resolve the crisis with support from more than 110 countries. He added that the Syrian people suffer in all aspects of life including education, health, food and other necessary matters and basic needs, as well as asylum, displacement and arrest, indicating that the coalition is working to alleviate this suffering for the people, and is struggling for it in cooperation with the relevant parties at home and abroad. He expressed his rejection of any Arab effort to normalise ties with the Syrian regime saying it's "reward for the regime for its crimes." "The regime's return to the Arab League, and any attempt to normalise relations with the regime is a reward for the regime for its crimes,” he explained. "We hope to find a quick solution to the Syrian issue, and we want to see a solution that relieves the suffering of our people," he added. Al-Meslet condemned the Houthi attack, which targeted two areas in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, and said: "We condemn every terrorist act targeting any Arab country.

The International Human Rights Day celebrations by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) yesterday highlighted Qatar's achievements and contributions in ensuring rights of children, women, workers and people with disabilities. The event at the Diplomatic Club was attended by MoFA Secretary-General HE Dr Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi, Department of Human Rights director Turki bin Abdullah al-Mahmoud and Arab Union of the Blind president Khalid al-Naemi and representatives from various ministries and government entities in the country. Speakers noted that Qatar has added remarkable achievements to its credit while working to protect the rights in the health sector along with social, economic, political and cultural fields. Also, it was noted that Qatar ensured representation in government bodies and in giving care to specially abled persons while protecting the rights of immigrant workers. Al-Hammadi said human rights protection is one of the priorities of Qatar and the celebration comes within the framework of raising awareness at the local and international levels about the International Human Rights Day. Several steps have been initiated and legislations made for ensuring the rights of all. Qatar made exploratory efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic to protect the rights of citizens and expatriates while making contributions and interventions regionally and internationally for the protection of human rights. Al-Mahmoud highlighted Qatar’s achievements while making efforts for protection of human rights locally, regionally and internationally, signing agreements and supporting various initiatives. He said various achievements were gained by Qatar while ensuring rights in various sectors including health, security, safety, infrastructure development, environment, sanitation and entertainment, adding that all enjoy the benefits of these achievements. He added that Qatar plays an important role in protecting human rights both at the local and international level. As part of the celebrations, an art exhibition was held with the participation of various entities. Ministries and government institutions set up pavilions that highlighted their contributions for human rights protection.    

* New traffic violation settlement system to come into effect in 2022 The General Directorate of Traffic has announced the launch of an initiative to settle accumulated traffic violations, which will come into effect on December 18 for a period of three months. The announcement came at a press conference organised by the directorate at its headquarters in Madinat Khalifa Monday. It was attended by Brig Mohamed Abdullah al-Shahwani, acting director-general at the Directorate of Traffic; Col Dr Mohamed Radi al-Hajri, director of the Traffic Awareness Department and Col Rashid Salih al-Qamra, assistant director of Licensing Affairs. Lauding the media for their co-operation in spreading traffic awareness, Brig al-Shahwani said: “On the initiative of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and under the directives of HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, the General Directorate of Traffic announces the launch of the initiative to settle accumulated traffic violations by activating a 50% discount. This discount will be available for a period of three months, starting from December 18, 2021, coinciding with the celebrations of Qatar National Day." After the expiry of this period, legal procedures will be applied to settle traffic violations, he added. The official called on everyone to take advantage of this initiative launched by the MoI and to settle the violations accumulated during the past years in this three-month period. Brig al-Shahwani stressed that new legal procedures will be applied regarding violations with the beginning of the new year, and the violations will be referred to the authorities concerned (Public Prosecution). He also pointed out that the General Directorate of Traffic emphasises the implementation of this procedure in order to benefit everyone, especially those who have accumulated previous violations. Such persons have to settle these violations, as well as those who have had their cars seized at the Traffic Department in the Industrial Area because of violations and take advantage of this initiative so that their vehicles will not be sold. He added that the payment can be done through the Metrash2 app, and if people face any problems with the violations, they can contact the Traffic Department. For his part, Col Dr al-Hajri said this initiative aims to rectify the situation of violators through a new mechanism based on the non-accumulation of traffic violations in the coming years. He stressed that all these procedures are to be carried out in co-ordination with the relevant authorities within the MoI as well as external authorities concerned with the judiciary. From 2022, there will be a new mechanism for curbing traffic violations and collecting fines for them. The goodwill initiative launched by the Ministry will benefit a large segment of road users, especially those who have committed traffic violations and accumulated large fines, he added.

Leaders of prominent expatriate communities have praised Qatar for adding several achievements to its credit while making preparations for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Talking to Gulf Times, they noted that Qatar is well prepared for the mega event while expatriate communities are set to join hands with the authorities to make it a grand success by extending support for organising the event, involvement in cultural activities, holding promotional initiatives in Qatar and abroad, and hosting fans. "Qatar has proven its ability to host the World Cup and the event will be an unforgettable one,” said P N Baburajan, president, Indian Cultural Centre (ICC). He recalled that the announcement of the mega event was followed by huge investment in various sectors while implementing numerous infrastructure development projects, Doha Metro, metro, advanced public transportation system, new roads, advanced sewage treatment systems and boosting the tourism possibilities. "Most of the works related to the World Cup have been completed and Qatar is now racing towards a post developed era," Baburajan added. Pakistan community leader Malik Nawar Khan Wazir noted that Qatar has the ability to face challenges and is well prepared for the World Cup. “Qatar will maintain its supremacy in hosting as well as developing vast and huge stadiums and infrastructure of roads. This has been reflected during the inaugural ceremony of the ongoing FIFA Arab World Cup 2021. It has left a message to the whole world that Qatar has full potential and vigor to hold the sport event,” he said. “It is undeniable that Qatar has so far soared in various developmental and infrastructure projects in addition to amazing stadiums completed. The preparation and achievements are excellent,” noted Henry Dimaano, founding chairman, Helping Empowering Recognising OFW (HERO Qatar). Ziad Usman, president, Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), said that hopes are high while the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is hosted in the region for the first time. “Preparations are underway as per schedule to host the big event. Stadiums, roads and other infrastructure projects have been almost completed and the remaining works are carried out in an organised and time bound manner. These are on while causing less convenience to the public,” he said adding that the development over the years has been phenomenal. “From only a few buildings in the Corniche to the present skyline is amazing,” he noted. The leaders said that communities are prepared for the World Cup while planning an array of programmes and getting engaged in promotional activities. “The Pakistani community will join hands with Qatar for the final preparation and we will support Qatar at each step. Our brothers and sisters are ready to serve day and night to make this world cup even more successful and memorable,” said Wazir. Usman, who noted that the Indian community organisations have planned several cultural and sport events. “Apex bodies and associations have come up with countdown events and programmes to add colour to the ongoing promotional events,” he explained. Dimaano noted there has been active and strong government-community partnership while it comes to holding the programmes. “The Filipino community always commits our support and collaboration with Qatar in all possible ways whether it’s volunteering or organising promotional events,” he said. According to Dimaano, Qatar has always supported the Philippines, and especially during natural calamities.” Baburajan said that communities are ready to welcome the event. “Indian community organisations have started the countdown while organising various promotion programmes, cultural events with participation of the embassy. The Arab Cup witnessed the participation of communities with huge celebrations. Members of the Indian community will be in the forefront while taking part in volunteering, medical support, cultural programmes and sport events,” he said. The leaders, while thanking Qatar for its support to the expatriates and the steps to ensure their welfare, said that the relationship between the government and the communities is growing. “Indians always have a special place in the community. The healthcare system is the same for all, whether you are citizen or expatriate. It’s a commendable service that we all received during Covid-19, be it providing essential supplies to the needy, vaccinations, hospital care and setting up quarantine facilities,” Ziad Usman said adding that Qatar government and establishments are always there with a helping hand to India during calamities in the past. “Indo-Qatar trade and bilateral relations date back since 1973 and is still continuing in various sectors from energy to food and agricultural production,” Usman said. Wazir noted that Qatar's support to all expatriates is very strong and the country’s leadership is open hearted. "They warmly welcome the Pakistani community. Both nations are flourishing together and we feel like it's our second home. Qatar and the Pakistan governments have joined hands together for the welfare and establishment of many new projects in Qatar and our ties are growing day by day,” he said. Baburajan explained that Qatar, as well as the communities in the country, have seen major development in ensuring the welfare of the labour community. “Qatar has been protecting everyone in the medical sector. Top level care is provided. Benefits of the infrastructure development are enjoyed by every community. Labour law protects the rights of expatriate employees. New reforms are introduced. New committees are formed to resolve the complaints and participation of community organisations to hear the pleas and resolve the complaints,” he added.    

The fourth edition of the Flower Festival at Souq Waqif continues to draw crowds. Featuring flowers, plants, seeds and agricultural equipment, the event which runs until December 11 at the West Square of Doha's popular landmark, is organised by Souq Waqif management in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality. Nine private farms and 15 agricultural nurseries from across Qatar are taking part in the festival. The 24 stalls at the festival sell a variety of indoor and outdoor flowering, leafy, vegetable and herb plants. These are in addition to seeds, pots, potting soil, locally-made fertilisers, pesticides and farming and gardening accessories. Visitor Mohamed Shafi told Gulf Times that the festival is a great attraction for gardening and farming enthusiasts. Unique flower installations spread across the festival venue provide colourful photo backdrops for visitors. The organisers have used as many as 100,000 flowers for the purpose. Souq Waqif director Mohamed al-Salem, in a statement to local Arabic daily *Arrayah, said that during winter, citizens are keen to decorate their homes with seasonal flowers in diverse colours and shapes. "There has been a remarkable improvement in the number of participation by farms and nurseries while displaying a large number of flowers, seedlings and trees,” he said. The festival is open from 9am-9pm Saturday to Wednesday, and from 9am-10pm on Thursday. On Fridays, the doors are open from 3pm-10pm. In keeping with coronavirus (Covid-19) protocols, entry is only for vaccinated visitors with Ehteraz green status and wearing masks.

With the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 drawing near, Indian expatriate forum Diaspora of Malappuram (DoM) Qatar is all set to implement an array of programmes across Qatar and the southern state of Kerala. The plan, which includes sports campaigns, competitions and healthy life promotion activities, will be implemented while joining hands with the Supreme Committee of Delivery and Legacy (SC) and the Indian Embassy affiliated Indian Sports Centre (ISC). “Being a responsible community organisation, it’s high time we support the efforts being made by Qatar to make the World Cup a grand success. We have submitted a detailed proposal to SC,” DoM Qatar president Mashood VC told Community. While heralding the one year plan, DoM Qatar Kick-Off 2022 was recently held and a grand launch of DoM Qatar sports activities will be held on December 24 at Ideal Indian School. In Qatar, school and community level football tournaments, sevens tournament, quiz programme, a meet football legends programme, sports exhibition and site visits will be held. The All India Football Shootout match on December 24 will be attended by 40 teams. The District Football League will be held in January with the participation of community football clubs and organisations. A FIFA World Cup Tour has been planned at Malappuram next year. “Malappuram is globally known for its love and craze towards football. We are planning a World Cup Tour in Malappuram while lending the fans an opportunity to see the World Cup trophy, know about the milestones of World Cup 2022 and Qatar’s preparations to host the mega event while detailing the plans and arrangements,” he said. Also, DoM Qatar has plans to take SC delegates and FIFA officials to Malappuram District in order to help them feel the football fever there. “Among the plans, the highlight is hosting 500 fans from Malappuram, in line with the Host a Fan initiative by SC,” he said. DoM members will support the community outreach programmes by the authorities and a DoM Qatar theme song will be released as a tribute to the World Cup while showcasing Qatar’s preparations. Also, a souvenir will be released in connection with the programmes. With more than 1,000 members DoM Qatar has been active in organising and promoting community based activities. It has students, arts and women wings that are focusing on cultural, educational and social empowering activities across Qatar.

The fourth edition of the Flower Festival at Souq Waqif continues to draw crowds. Featuring flowers, plants, seeds and agricultural equipment, the event which runs until December 11 at the West Square of Doha's popular landmark, is organised by Souq Waqif management in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality. With 24 flower stalls, the festival is participated by nine private farms and 15 agricultural nurseries from across Qatar. The stalls sell a variety of indoor and outdoor flowering, leafy, vegetable and herb plants. These are in addition to seeds, pots, potting soil, locally-made fertilisers, pesticides and farming and gardening accessories. One of the visitors, Mohamed Shafi, told Gulf Times that the festival is a great attraction for gardening and farming enthusiasts. lovers to buy products of there needs. Unique flower installations spread across the festival venue provides captivating and colourful photo backdrops for visitors. The organisers have used as many as 100,000 flowers for the purpose. Souq Waqif director Mohammed al-Salem, in a statement to local Arabic daily Arrayah, said during winter, citizens are keen to decorate their homes with seasonal flowers in diverse colours and shapes. "There has been a remarkable improvement in the number of participation by farms and nurseries while displaying a large number of flowers, seedlings and trees,” al-Salem said. The festival is open from 9am to 9pm Saturday to Wednesday and from 9am to 10pm on Thursday. On Fridays, the doors are open from 3pm to 10pm. In keeping with Covid-19 protocols, entry is only for vaccinated visitors with Ehteraz green status and wearing masks.    

Baby Elephant Organic Wear on Wednesday launched its winter collection at Studio 7 at M7 Building of Msheireb Downtown Doha in the presence of Spanish ambassador Belen Alfaro, Gulf Times Editor-in-Chief Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka and other dignitaries. The winter collection has a wide selection of organic super soft clothes for newborns and older kids. These include hoodies, pants, tees, shorts, jackets and kids' sets. While addressing the launching ceremony Baby Elephant Organic Wear founder and designer Aysha al-Mudahka, said she was proud to launch a new brand of clothes that convey the messages of sustainability and environmental preservation. Baby Elephant Organic Wear founders Aysha al-Mudahka and Ieva Simkiene at the launch event. PICTURES Thajudheen. “The brand is organic, cool and Arabic inspired. Our inspiration is kids. And we strongly believe in our idea of sustainability,” al-Mudahka said, adding that Baby Elephant Organic Wear is an initiative that educates people about organic clothing and its advantages over other conventional clothes. Spanish ambassador Belen Alfaro with Baby Elephant Organic Wear founders Aysha al-Mudahka and Ieva Simkiene Baby Elephant’s clothes are produced abroad following the designing pattern that suits the Qatari demand and environment while locally packed. Baby Elephant Organic Wear has comfortable and unisex designs featuring Arabic phrases. These designs are made from 100% organic cotton that is softer to the baby's skin. Baby Elephant Organic Wear also follows the zero waste concept. So the hangtags and packaging are made of cutting waste from the fabrics. The packaging materials are recycled and sustainable. A selection of Baby Elephant Organic Wear winter collection “These are locally inspired designs, ethically made from 100% Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic cotton. They are packed in a locally produced box, made from recycled paper,” said Ieva Simkiene, founder and manager of Baby Elephant Organic Wear. Baby Elephant Organic Wear has a wide selection of organic super soft clothes for newborns and older kids She said that Baby Elephant Organic Wear wants to leave a strong message of environmental protection while selling super soft clothes. “We follow sustainable and locally inspired designs and create unisex and comfy timeless designs. We don’t chase trends. Instead, we try to ensure sustainability and promote the idea of environmental protection among youngsters and kids,” Ieva said, adding that the focus is on quality and using harmless materials. She explained that the initiative is helping a large number of farmers who follow conventional farming methods while importing cotton from the villages. Baby Elephant Organic Wear’s products are available at Galeries Lafayette and Salam Stores. Online buyers can find the products at https://babyelephantorganic.com/collections/all. The special Qatar National Day collections are available at https://babyelephantorganic.com/collections/qnd.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has reminded the public not to make unnecessary calls to the emergency number 999. "Children tampering with 999 causes big annoyance for service staff and delays service delivery for those who are in need," explained Capt Ali Jassim al-Khulaifi, Officer at Emergency Services 999. Addressing an awareness seminar on ‘Services of Rescue Police Al Fazaa and Central Operation Department to the Public’ by the MoI on Monday, urged the public to contact competent authorities if they need non-emergency services that do not need police intervention. “In such cases, callers can inquire through MoI’s website and social platforms. But, call 999 for any kind of emergency and help others to call the number if they are in need. Cooperate with staff when you call 999, keep calm and do not panic. Give essential details including residential address, name of the zone, street and building number while clearly defining the geographical location,” he said. At the awareness programme organised by MoI’s Public Relations Department, Capt al-Khulaifi also explained various services being provided by Emergency Services and said Deaf Emergency Services are available at 992. This service could be reached through video call, SMS and Email. Also, he detailed Najm and Tala’a systems that enable monitoring and controlling emergency and rescue services. First Lt Hassan Mohamed al-Ahbabi, training officer and Al Fazaa, explained the functions of the Rescue Force. The patrols are carried out in order to monitor the safety and security, provide support for various departments and control crimes. He urged all not to gather at accident spots, not obstruct the rescue works and not take pictures. Carry ID cards and show them only to police officers. “When a person in civil dress asks for ID, you can ask him to show his ID. Several incidents in which frauds cheat the public by impersonating as police officers have been reported,” he added.    

The Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has completed steps to support FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. “The Electricity Networks Affairs has completed all the equipment installation to secure the necessary alternative and backup energy resources for all FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums,” Kahramaa tweeted. While FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be played in eight state-of-the-art stadiums across Qatar, six of them are currently being used as venues for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021, which kicked off on Tuesday. As part of the preparations, Kahramaa has set up power stations that feed the stadiums. The feeder stations include transformers and the stadiums are fed through high quality cables. The stadiums and the feeder stations are connected to the control systems with the National Control Centre of Kahramaa. The highest standards of reliability have been ensured in its electrical network while following the highest international specifications in accordance with the requirements for stadium projects. Kahramaa has introduced an advanced protection system linked to a fibre-optic network while following the highest standards of security and safety in all its activities and operations. The works were carried out in coordination with the Supreme Committee of Delivery and Legacy (SC). Also, Kahramaa has set up district cooling stations with stadiums. The stations are operated through a central station that distributes chilled water to the stadium through a power station. From there, the water is distributed to a large number of air treatment units in the stadium to ensure the required temperature for the fan stand area and the floor of the stadium. This comes within the framework of Kahramaa’s tasks to support the organising committee of the mega event. The use of the district cooling system in stadiums is an innovative, environmentally friendly technology and one of the most efficient, sustainable, and energy-saving systems. It saves about 40% of electricity and 98% of potable water when compared to traditional cooling solutions.    

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has urged expatriates to make use of the grace period to correct the legal status of those violating Law No 21 of 2015 that regulates the entry and exit of expatriates and their residence. MoI officials, while addressing a meeting of community leaders at the headquarters of the Search and Follow-up Department (SFD) on Sunday, said those who approach the authorities will be allowed to leave the country while exempting them from all consequences of legal responsibility. The grace period started on October 10 and will end on December 31.   Lt Ahmed al-Marri The community leaders visited the SFD headquarters to witness the facilities and the arrangements for receiving applications from violators of the Law No 21 of 2015 for their status correction during the grace period. The officials, during the meeting, reiterated that those who approach the SFD will not face any kind of action, including detention, and all facilities have been made to ensure their rights and smooth travel to the home country. “Those who want to avail of the facility can come with the passport and an open ticket. We are set to help them,” Capt Kamal Tahir al-Tairi, an official at the SFD, said, adding that the process is simple and fast.   Capt Mohamed Ali al-Rashid The target groups include the following: expatriates who stay in the country violating the law without obtaining a residence permit or without renewing it and exceeding 90 days from the validity date, and no absconding complaint has been filed against them by the employer; as well as those who stay in the country violating the law and an absconding complaint (leaving the work – violation of the purpose) has been filed against them by their employers, but 30 days have not been completed from the date of filing the complaint. In such cases, their departure will be ensured by the SFD and they will be exempted from all consequences of legal responsibility while their return to Qatar on another visa will also be possible.   Capt Kamal Tahir al-Tairi “In case of those who entered Qatar on family residence permits or as visitors and have violated the period of stay or the expatriates who have violated the law and an absconding complaint (leaving the work – violation of the purpose) has been filed against them by their employer and more than 30 days have been passed from the date of filing the complaint, the SFD will ensure their departure and they can return to Qatar if they leave the country after accepting the legally prescribed reconciliation,” Capt al-Tairi explained. “In addition to this, an expatriate whose residence permit has been cancelled and has passed 90 days from its cancellation can also return to Qatar if he leaves the country after accepting the legally prescribed reconciliation. In all cases, the deportation of minors will be without a ban to return to Qatar, regardless of their violation of the provisions of the law, and they are exempted from any legal consequences,” he said. Capt Mohamed al-Rashid, an official from the Unified Services Department, explained the services provided by the department through the MoI's services centres for violators. The department provides its services for those who wish to stay inside the country after correcting their status through service centres at Umm Salal, Umm Sunaim (previously the Industrial Area service centre), Musaimeer, Al Wakra and Al Rayyan. “Among residence permit holders, the target groups are those who have violated the law and have passed 90 days from the expiry date of the residence permit or those against whom a ‘leaving work’ complaint has been filed and they wish to move to another employer," he said adding that the target groups from work visa holders are those who have violated the law while exceeding 90 days from entering the country without issuing a residence permit or against whom a ‘leaving work’ complaint has been filed and wish to stay in the country after correcting their status, provided that the approval should be obtained from the labour department for the same nationality for the new recruiter. “No application will be accepted from the violator or the person against whom a ‘leaving work’ complaint has been filed after announcing the grace period,” he added. Explaining the procedures, he said an applicant has to submit the filled-up form in any one of the five service centres. “After verifying the application to ensure compliance with the conditions, the service staff will forward it to the labour department for its decision. The whole process will take only two minutes. In normal cases, the labour department will take its decision on the application within five working days if the application meets all the conditions specified by the authorities concerned,” he explained. “Submission of the filled designated form for status correction, which is available on the MoI’s website, and a copy of the establishment's registration card for the new employer are the requirements for application for correction,” he said. Lt Ahmed al-Marri, Technical Affairs officer at the SFD, welcomed the community leaders and introduced them to the services of the department. “The violators have to approach SFD’s main reception hall along with their passport and an open travel ticket. The staff concerned will verify the data and complete all the necessary procedures within three minutes in normal cases and upon completion, a travel permit is issued to the violating person and handed over to him to go to the airport as per the schedule mentioned in the ticket as an ordinary passenger, while adhering to the Covid-19 precautionary measures followed in the country,” he said. The working hours of offices at SFD and the five MoI service centres are from 1pm to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has installed solar lamps at West Umm Slal Ali project worksite. Ashghal tweeted that it has replaced the traditional tower lights that work on diesel generators. The initiative is yielding many benefits including environmental, safety, energy and cost savings. “The initiative is implemented by Metito as part of Lean Construction Principles that aim to improve site preparation level and enhance workers safety," it was explained. Solar lights are also used at Um Ebairiya Village, South Umm Al Amad and North Bu Faseela project sites where development works are carried out by Ashghal. The initiative ensures zero carbon emission and eliminates caused by the generators running on diesel. Also, it brings down the operational cost as the solar lights cost 68% less than the diesel tower lights. The operation cost is reduced by 98%.

Qatar residents have been urged to take the booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine to get additional immunity against the pandemic. "A total of 70,000 booster doses have been administered so far in Qatar without any serious side effects," said Dr Yousef al-Maslamani, medical director of Hamad General Hospital. In an interview with Qatar TV Wednesday, the senior health official also dispelled rumours about the booster dose. "It was on the basis of scientific research that the booster or third dose got approved," he explained while clarifying that the immunity against Covid-19 begins to decrease after six months of the second dose. Regarding the impact of the third dose on travel and return policy, Dr al-Maslamani said: “We guarantee the society's protection by following precautionary measures such as masks and social distancing in addition to vaccination.” "In order to maintain 90% of the society’s immunity, we do not want any Qatar resident to travel without the booster dose to countries experiencing the third or fourth waves of the pandemic. Dr al-Maslamani explained that the protection after the second dose is for a full year and if a year hasn’t passed the privileges will remain. “We don’t prevent travelling, but rather motivate and encourage people to take the third dose,” he said. The validity of the golden frame of Ehteraz, which indicates vaccination with two doses, shall disappear after 12 months of receiving the second dose, as it has been decided by the strategic committee of the Ministry of Public Health. "This means that the person doesn’t protect himself or his community from the virus." Regarding the third or booster dose, Dr al-Maslamani said that the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccine can be taken even for those vaccinated with AstraZeneca. “There are institutions that have discovered that mixing vaccines helps to increase immunity and there are countries that have done so without harm,” he explained.