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The UN Deputy High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Kelly T Clements has pledged support for the Palestine humanitarian efforts.She was attending a discussion on “Setting the Stage for the Global Refugee Forum: From Challenges to Opportunities” yesterday at Centre for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies.“We will do what we can do to support the Palestine humanitarian efforts. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is operating in Gaza. We stand completely behind the statement of UNRWA Emergency Relief Coordinator,” Clements said noting that UNHCR has contributed to support the relief activities carried by the Egyptian Red Crescent.“We need a humanitarian ceasefire and we need the suffering to be stopped,” she said while underscoring the need for massive efforts and agendas to ensure the welfare of refugees and urged better refugee response and advocacy.“There is a need for strong international solidarity for the refugee cause,” the UN official asserted. She pointed out the necessity of more innovative ways and measures to ensure the protection of the refugees.“There should be ways to support the refugees effectively while making them able to provide themselves livelihoods. So we have to be thinking about responses in new situations of displacement as not short-term relief only. We have to be thinking about different systems and different ways to be able to protect and aid with a longer-term perspective from the beginning."There are glimmers of hope when it comes to the refugee humanitarian cause. The condition of refugees is improved through strengthening education, climate, health and energy systems and implementing humanitarian mechanisms."But Clements stated that the number of refugees is going up. “There are 110mn refugees across the world out of which 62mn are internally displaced people. Shedding light on the current grim scenario in the region where conflicts and unrest continue to prevail in various countries, the UN official observed that “This region is fragile”.The Global Refugee Forum is an opportunity to review the measures and plan the steps, Clements added. Centre for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies director Dr Ghassan Elkahlout was present.

Hundreds came together at Qatar University (QU) campus yesterday for the 'Solidarity Stand in support of Gaza'. They held up placards and posters while shouting slogans and singing songs giving vent to their ire against the continuing Israeli occupation.The event at the QU Library premises was organised by the QU Student Representative Board (QUSRB) in collaboration with the Ealia Club, dedicated to the Palestinian cause. Representatives from Qatar Charity were present to collect donations to support the people of Gaza.Donning the iconic Palestinian Keffiyeh and waving the Palestinian flag, the demonstrators resonated with the global rage over the continuing Israeli attack on Gaza while urging measures to end the assault. The songs of resistance struck a chord with the crowd with many passionately echoing the singer on the stage.The gathering also marked mass prayers for Palestinians. The speakers urged everyone to stand with Palestine with prayers, donations and intervention to contain disinformation and smear campaigns against the Palestinians.“We stand here today at Qatar University to express and declare our strong rejection of the brutal crimes and massacres to which our brothers in Palestine are subjected,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Dr Eiman Mustafawi.“We also appreciate the efforts of our students in defending the causes of the homeland and the nation, and affirm their right to express their opinions, ideas, rights and positions, through the establishment of such peaceful gatherings in support of important issues, and we commend their humanitarian and charitable role in urging donations to the relief of our people in Gaza in coordination with Qatar Charity,” she said.President of the Ealia Club Mohamed Alloh said the demonstrators gathered to convey their solidarity and say to the Palestinians that it's a great honour to be granted the blessing of supporting them.President of QU’s Student Representative Board Fawziya Alhor said the QU community with its students, faculty, and administrative staff believes in the importance of the Palestinian cause. “This cause isn’t reserved for Arabs or Muslims. It’s a humanitarian issue that everyone with humanity must defend, stand up for and show their full support regardless of the differences of nationality or other,” she said.“Based on these principles that we believe in, QUSRB declares its full solidarity with the people in Gaza and Palestine,” she added.“All our eyes are turned towards Gaza, which resists the occupying aggressor with determination and fierceness,” member of the Ealia Club Mohamed Sorour said. “Our people in Gaza have demonstrated great patience. They symbolise faith, steadfastness, and resilience in the face of all the oppression and tyranny they endure, but they believe in entrusting their affairs to Allah,” he said.“Our support for our people and our brothers is a duty incumbent upon us, not a favour from us to them. We are the ones in need of this stance, and we are the ones who need to fulfil this duty towards the path of the Prophet,” head of the Department of Quran and Sunnah at the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies at QU Dr Abduljabbar Saeed noted.

With several art shows, performances and traditional games, the Cultural Zone at Expo 2023 Doha is resonating well with heritage and cultural enthusiasts at Al Bidda Park. The activities highlight Qatari and Arab legacy.The Enńat Expo at Cultural Zone features Qatari and International Street Games until October 31. The traditional games entertain, and embody a sense of community and tradition, and present and foster strong family and community ties. Also, part of the Enńat Expo is Sand Meet, a fun activity for under-7 crowd as they get messy in the sand and mud, make new friends, and enjoy the environment.The Sports in Nature programme, a part of the Enńat Expo, features teamwork and athletics where participants come together to celebrate the environment. The Eco-Challenge programme is for the 7 to 15 age group. 'Ladies Night' is one of the major attractions with a relaxing viewing area, where the spectators can watch and listen to Malawal - old-time movies and music.The open space galleries host the Traditional Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition. At Cultural Bazaar, the attendees will be able to explore a vibrant marketplace and see traditional artisanal products, including handmade crafts from various countries.The Farmers Market is a dedicated space for farmers and growers to showcase and present their produce to the public. International pavilions will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their locally sourced agricultural products. The kiosks provide an opportunity for visitors to experience diverse food and beverage kiosks and stalls, presenting an array of international and local cuisines.

Impressive cultural programmes, colourful processions, mind-blowing stage shows and exclusive games for kids are among the highlights of the Family Zone at Expo 2023 Doha at Al Bidda Park.The Family Zone features daily variety entertainment from 3pm to 10pm daily at the mega event which runs until March 28, 2024. The Expo House in the area hosts eco workshops with spot registration throughout October with edutainment programmes for children, with special emphasis on caring for Planet Earth.Also, the area has the Green Playground where children under-six crowd can combine play and nature, and enjoy the environment, while the 7 - 15 age group can show off their athletic moves with golf, football, foosball, and more. Spot registration is available.The Seed of Hope Show at the Family Amphitheater, which runs until October 31, features a children’s play, where the hero discovers the last surviving plant seed, which is the promise of a better environment.The Digital Challenge Park at Family Zone connects children above 12 with the four themes of the Expo. Participation is allowed through online registration at the official website.With a capacity to host up to 2,000 spectators, the open-air Family Amphitheatre is the venue for a variety of edutainment shows and activities.

Dazzling shows, eye catching 3D illuminations, spectacular installations, insightful and thought provoking awareness videos are among the highlights of the Qatari Pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha which showcases the mega event's motto 'Green Desert, Better Environment'.Inspired by the Ras Abrouq landscape, the pavilion showcases the country's heritage while celebrating traditional art and architecture and showcasing its commitment towards sustainability. Inside the pavilion, the visitors embark on a captivating journey while exploring five zones and establishing a connection between the journey of hope and growth and the pillars of the expo.The first zone is dedicated to environmental awareness with the narrative beginning with the challenges the planet earth faces. With the sustainability pillar, the second zone is the place to showcase biodiversity. The third zone is a transitional space that bridges the challenges with potential solutions and transitioning to a greener future. The fourth zone celebrates the blend of tradition and innovation, and showcases how modern agriculture techniques can nurture the seed's potential.Spotlight in the fifth zone is on the role of technology and innovation, painting a vision of a green desert brought to life through cutting-edge and eco-friendly solutions. This zone features technologies and new innovations that Qatar uses, including technological means and innovations, and types of clean energies such as solar energy and wind energy, in addition to the smart garden that contains all types of plants and trees that are grown in the country. Qatar introduces the public to the Qatari model of transforming the desert into green spaces through the use of environmentally friendly technologies and modern innovations.One of the attractions inside the pavilion is hydroponic farming, a technique used to grow plants inside closed tubes filled with water and plant nutrients. This technology is considered effective in saving water and space and achieving high productivity. Also, the visitors are introduced to the vertical tube farming technique. The pavilion envisages development that Qatar has reached in using technologies, tools and scientific knowledge to find new and innovative solutions to improve life, economy and the environment in light of the development it has witnessed in the fields of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, information and communications technology, robotics and clean energy.The Qatari pavilion leaves visitors with the message of environmental protection while encouraging them to preserve natural resources and raising the level of community awareness.

Expo 2023 Doha is set to enthrall the visitors while hosting an array of events from Tuesday at Al Bidda Park. Apart from cultural activities, fun, entertainment, music, art fete and live shows are on the list.On Tuesday, the pavilions at the International Zone will be open for the public from 10am to 8pm while the Innovation Centre will host workshops from 3 pm to 8 pm. The Cultural Zone will have workshops from 3pm to 9pm and Sports In Nature programme from 5.30pm to 9pm. Also, the zone will host Sand Meet and Eco Challenge along with Qatar and International Street Games from 3pm to 9 pm. The Green Desert, Better Tomorrow Show will be held from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.Several shows are lined up for the Family Zone where the Digital Park will host Digital Challenge from 3pm to 10pm along with eco workshops. There will be Turkiye performance from 4pm to 5pm at the Family Amphitheatre.The Grandstand Arena at Expo 2023 Doha will host world-renowned international and regional artists while the Cultural Bazaar will have a vibrant marketplace and feature traditional artisanal products, including handmade crafts from various countries. The open-air Family Amphitheatre will host a variety of edutainment shows and activities suitable for kids and families.The International Zone has gardens, exhibitions and events. The Family Area will act as a hub for family fun, activities, gathering and outdoor pursuits. The Cultural Area highlights the historical core of Doha and its onsite features of the Old Fort and Old Rocks.The Indoor Domes, will house gardens, featuring controlled conditions and temperatures. The Environment Centre and Biodiversity Museum provides a dedicated space to exhibit environmental science, renewable energy demonstrations and technologies, and share climate change statistics and information.Expo 2023 Doha will also be a festival of cuisine while bringing together the best culinary experiences and featuring the food and beverages with live entertainment. Visitors can experience Qatari and GCC cuisine while the kiosks will feature Lebanese, Oriental, Turkish, French, Dutch, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Moroccan, Ethiopian, Mexican, American and Latin American delicacies. Also, there will be coffee shops and exclusive spaces for desserts and healthy food.The Metro Station at the airport offers fast and frequent services to and from the airport. Metro users can enter the site through Exit 3 of Corniche station and Exit 2 of Al Bidda station. Taxi pavilion is located to the left of the Arrivals Hall at Hamad International Airport where the transport coordinators are available to assist. The Bus Pavilion is located to the right of the Arrivals Hall at HIA. Passengers can choose from a range of car rental providers. Cars can be hired and returned at the airport with ease. Chauffeur-driven limos, including luxury sedans and 7 - seater vans, are available to take from the airport to Expo 2023 Doha venue.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will patronise on Monday the opening ceremony of Expo 2023 Doha in the presence of a number of dignitaries and representatives from various countries.Under the theme "Green Desert, Better Environment, Expo 2023 Doha will be held at Al Bidda Park until March 28, 2024. The focus is on modern agriculture, technology and innovation, environmental awareness and sustainability.The mega event will promote sustainable innovations and combat desertification through activities and celebrations that last for 179 days while drawing 3mn visitors from more than 80 countries.This will be the first horticultural exhibition in Mena, a region with a desert climate, encouraging horticultural innovation focusing on the climate, water and soil sustainability.As a collaboration between the Bureau International Des Expositions (BIE) and the International Association for Horticultural Producers (AIPH), Expo Doha 2023 will attract visitors locally and internationally, pavilions from almost 80 countries, NGOs and representatives.Organisers said all arrangements have been completed. Expo 2023 Doha Commissioner-General Bader Omar al-Dafa told Qatar TV that the expo is one of the largest of its kind with participation from various continents.Expo 2023 Doha will be open for public for free from tomorrow (October 3) while presenting a variety of events and activities including conferences and cultural, educational, entertainment exhibitions. In addition to introducing innovative new products to global markets and sports events, the expo will host workshops, educational activities and discussions with leading experts to concerts, theatrical performances and much more that await the visitors.The site at Al Bidda Park consists of three areas. The Northern Area will host the international exhibits, while the remaining two areas will be activated by a variety of functions and experiences. Each area of the site will be programmed to offer its unique experience to participants and visitors.The exhibition has Congress Centre, Exhibition Centre, Family Amphitheatre, Indoor Domes, Cultural Bazaar, Farmers Market, Food Kiosks, Sponsors Area, Environment Centre & Biodiversity Museum and Grandstand Arena.

Expo 2023 Doha is set to enthrall the visitors while hosting an array of events from Tuesday at Al Bidda Park. Apart from cultural activities, fun, entertainment, music, art fete and live shows are on the list.On Tuesday, the pavilions at the International Zone will be open for the public from 10am to 8pm while the Innovation Centre will host workshops from 3 pm to 8 pm. The Cultural Zone will have workshops from 3pm to 9pm and Sports In Nature programme from 5.30pm to 9pm. Also, the zone will host Sand Meet and Eco Challenge along with Qatar and International Street Games from 3pm to 9 pm. The Green Desert, Better Tomorrow Show will be held from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.Several shows are lined up for the Family Zone where the Digital Park will host Digital Challenge from 3pm to 10pm along with eco workshops. There will be Turkiye performance from 4pm to 5pm at the Family Amphitheatre.The Grandstand Arena at Expo 2023 Doha will host world-renowned international and regional artists while the Cultural Bazaar will have a vibrant marketplace and feature traditional artisanal products, including handmade crafts from various countries. The open-air Family Amphitheatre will host a variety of edutainment shows and activities suitable for kids and families.The International Zone has gardens, exhibitions and events. The Family Area will act as a hub for family fun, activities, gathering and outdoor pursuits. The Cultural Area highlights the historical core of Doha and its onsite features of the Old Fort and Old Rocks.The Indoor Domes, will house gardens, featuring controlled conditions and temperatures. The Environment Centre and Biodiversity Museum provides a dedicated space to exhibit environmental science, renewable energy demonstrations and technologies, and share climate change statistics and information.Expo 2023 Doha will also be a festival of cuisine while bringing together the best culinary experiences and featuring the food and beverages with live entertainment. Visitors can experience Qatari and GCC cuisine while the kiosks will feature Lebanese, Oriental, Turkish, French, Dutch, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Moroccan, Ethiopian, Mexican, American and Latin American delicacies. Also, there will be coffee shops and exclusive spaces for desserts and healthy food.The Metro Station at the airport offers fast and frequent services to and from the airport. Metro users can enter the site through Exit 3 of Corniche station and Exit 2 of Al Bidda station. Taxi pavilion is located to the left of the Arrivals Hall at Hamad International Airport where the transport coordinators are available to assist. The Bus Pavilion is located to the right of the Arrivals Hall at HIA. Passengers can choose from a range of car rental providers. Cars can be hired and returned at the airport with ease. Chauffeur-driven limos, including luxury sedans and 7 - seater vans, are available to take from the airport to Expo 2023 Doha venue.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will develop a new roadmap for a 7–Star certification from the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) in Belgium.While opening the Organisational Excellence Forum Wednesday, Ashghal president Dr Engineer Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi said the roadmap will be implemented with the aim of establishing and promoting corporate culture that prioritises exceptional performance, continuous improvement, sustainable success and outstanding results."Based on our belief that achieving Qatar's diligent endeavours to build a distinct government sector that achieves the highest standards of development, Ashghal’s team has adopted a roadmap to achieve a legacy of excellence, improve performance, and participate in the state's journey towards governmental excellence," al-Muhannadi said.He added that Ashghal has come a long way in its ongoing journey towards governmental excellence and has obtained the 5-Star Certificate of Excellence from the EFQM.During the forum, Engineer Jamal Sharida al-Kaabi, manager of the Planning and Quality Department at Ashghal, showcased the most important milestones in the Public Works Authority’s journey towards organisational excellence and the major factors that led to its recognition by EFQM.Al-Kaabi highlighted Ashghal’s success in raising the quality of procedures, business and adhering to the standards of organisational excellence in accordance with internationally recognised standards.He said Ashghal is currently placing among its top priorities the achievement of environmental sustainability, innovation, automation, and adoption of modern technology in construction and asset management. “In this context, the Sustainability Strategy has been recently launched in Ashghal, which comprises more than 16 initiatives that include a number of employees,” he said.He explained Ashghal is committed to gradual and transformative development to become a leading governmental organisation that adopts the highest excellence standards. “These operational standards are based on the development and enhancement of more than 294 operational processes and 25 corporate policies, in addition to 42 excellence initiatives that included about 120 employees. This enabled upgrading the measurement, monitoring and evaluation methods that contributed to providing realistic evidence of outstanding performance that are up to the mark with the challenges,” he noted.

International visitors can use the special promo code EXPO23 while booking flights and hotels to avail the travel and accommodation discounts, Expo 2023 Doha announced on its official X account. The promo code can be used for Qatar Airways tickets and hotel bookings.Entry to Expo 2023 Doha is free for all visitors and Hayya Card option will be in place for the visitors for the event being held from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024.Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport (HIA) are the official airline partner and strategic partner of the expo, respectively. HIA will offer passengers arriving in Qatar a seamless connectivity to the city of Doha and the event.Visit Qatar has published pre-made itineraries that range from one to six days while covering tourism spots, cultural landmarks, heritage places, museums, shopping spots, beaches, sand dunes, street arts, dining places, culinary diversities, adventure seeking sites, safari and wellness locations.The pre-made itineraries from Visit Qatar lend opportunities to visit Unesco World Heritage Al Zubarah Archaeological site, Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl-Qatar, Al Sheehaniya Camel Race Track, East-West/West-East installation, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, Souq Waqif, Msheireb Museums, Museum of Islamic Art, National Museum of Qatar, Museum of Illusions, the Corniche and various malls across Qatar. The accommodation packages feature hotels and resorts across the country.The final preparations of the family zone are underway at Expo 2023 Doha site at Al Bidda Park, local Arabic daily Arrayah reported. The family zone will include a number of main facilities such as an Environment Centre and a Biodiversity Museum with adequate space for ecology presentations and displays of renewable energy technologies.The family zone will have an open area for educational shows and activities that provide families and children with entertainment, making it an excellent destination for family holidays. Expo 2023 Doha will also include a farmers' market for local produce, in addition to the cafes, restaurants and other retailers. The culture market will have handicraft corners for traditional and heritage products from across the world.

No discounts will be available for fines incurred due to mobile phone usage while driving, a senior official at the General Directorate of Traffic told Qatar Radio Monday.Capt Mohamed Rabia al-Kuwari, Officer of the Violations Department at the General Traffic Department, explained that using a mobile phone while driving will entail a fine of QR500.“About 50 to 60% of traffic accidents happen due to using mobile phones and not wearing seatbelts while driving," he pointed out.Meanwhile, a 50% discount will be applicable on the penalty for not using seatbelt, if settled within 30 days of the violation being registered, as is the case with some other traffic violations, the official said.Capt al-Kuwari said the new unified radar system, launched on Sunday, can catch three violations at the same time -- not wearing a seat belt, using a mobile phone and speeding.Motorists have the right to challenge the violation through Metrash 2 or on MoI website and the response will be conveyed within a week via Metrash 2. The violation is reviewed by those in charge of the unified radar system.Officials have earlier clarified that physical interaction with visual devices including mounted mobile phones and dashboard monitors while driving will be a violation and come under the purview of the penalty. Article No. 55 of the Traffic Law mandates a motor vehicle driver to refrain from using mobile phones or other devices in any way that requires the use of hands for carrying or operation while driving and not to watch any visual material on the vehicle's television while driving.Images of motorists not wearing a seatbelt and using mobile phones while driving will be available on the Metrash 2 app. The new unified radars will clearly capture the two violations. According to him, the radars will differentiate between the seat belt and the cloth even if they are of the same colour. It’s possible to lighten or darken the image and extract a very clear image that the violator can view.The authorities have urged all road users to comply with the traffic law and its executive regulations to preserve lives and property, and contribute to the great efforts made by the various authorities, stressing that traffic safety is a joint responsibility of the society too.

The upcoming Expo 2023 Doha will focus on environmental awareness with a stress on the key three areas - Affiliation besides education, FoodPrint and permaculture gardening. Expo 2023 Doha, being held from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024, is expected to have participation from 80 countries and the arrival of three million visitors to Doha.Expo 2023 Doha official website explains ‘raising global awareness to promote a long-term change in attitudes and behavior toward our shared environment’ as one of the main objectives of the event. Environmental awareness highlights that the physical environment is fragile and indispensable, and it is in our capacity to fix the problems that threaten it by starting with the most immediate issues.By affiliation besides education, it means that education is not sufficient in itself to convince people to change their habits. Affiliation is a strength that will allow the society to join with others to create something more adaptive and more creative. Thus, organisers propose to replace education with affiliation through the process of the proposed exhibition.FoodPrint means the most immediate problem being faced by the society on a daily basis is the secure access to healthy food and food policies. The acuteness of this issue will sharply focus the public’s attention. The expo aims to emphasise the reduction of food waste, the encouragement of healthy eating, support for sustainable agriculture, and a “start your own garden” programme.Permaculture gardening is based on the concept of designing one's own garden around the local environment with the concept of using the perfect plants for the climate, and utilising only what works best for the local environment. Expo 2023 Doha focuses on perma gardening while showcasing the trends.“In urban or peripheral areas, community gardens offer an opportunity for the public to re-establish their connection with nature while contributing to erosion control, recycling, and sustainability. Moreover, perma can be applied in urban as well as rural areas,” the website says.Entry to Expo 2023 Doha is free for all visitors, according to information available on Qatar Tourism application Visit Qatar. It was also announced recently that the Hayya Card option will be in place for the visitors to the six-month expo.The Hayya Card was launched during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as a Fan ID that allowed ticket-holders' entry into Qatar and the stadiums while giving them free access to metro and bus services.The Ministry of Interior had extended the validity of the Hayya Card, allowing the card holders from outside the country to enter Qatar until January 24, 2024.

Expo 2023 Doha Wednesday signed agreements with Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and Ooredoo as partners. QDB will promote and support entrepreneurship throughout the six-month global event and Ooredoo shall be a strategic partner.The signatories were Expo 2023 Doha secretary general Mohamed Ali al-Khory, QDB CEO Abdulrahman Hesham al-Sowaidi and Ooredoo chief business officer Thani al-Malki. HE the Minister of Municipality Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie and Ooredoo CEO Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor al-Thani were present on the occasion.QDB will serve as a collaborative partner in organising events and activities dedicated to fostering innovation within agriculture and sustainability and support for entrepreneurs. Also, it will host activities geared towards educating young entrepreneurs about sustainable development and financial awareness. A series of educational activations will cater to the youth and the general visitors aligning with the theme of “Innovation and Sustainability”.QDB's flagship 'Rowad' entrepreneurship conference, hackathon and awards now in its ninth edition will also draw thousands of visitors from across the GCC and the wider region, highlighting the importance of technological advancements and promoting environmentally friendly initiatives.Al-Khoury said the cooperation will provide valuable opportunities for Qatari and foreign entrepreneurs participating in the expo, and consolidate the event's commitment to enhancing the country's attractiveness as a global destination for creative ideas and sustainable initiatives.Al-Sowaidi said the cooperation will contribute to the development of our business landscape and the economy at large. “As the development partner of the largest exhibition in Qatar, we look forward to achieving our goals of promoting a culture of entrepreneurship and contributing to innovative and sustainable ventures across various industries,” he said adding the exhibition’s theme falls in line with QDB’s initiatives to foster the entrepreneurship ecosystem," al-Sowaidi added.Ooredoo will play a pivotal role in supporting the overarching goals of Expo 2023 Doha by helping promote sustainable practices and face global challenges. The partnership also goes hand-in-hand with Qatar’s commitment towards bolstering sustainability across all facets of society and relevant sectors.Al-Khoury said Ooredoo’s long and proven experience in the telecommunications sector, as well as its social responsibility and sustainability initiatives, perfectly align with the core values of our awaited event. “Together, we aim to create a lasting legacy, inspire change, and pave the way for a more sustainable future,” he noted.Al-Malki said Ooredoo is delighted and proud to be partnering with Doha Expo Organising Committee to help drive progress towards a key goal of Qatar National Vision 2030; that of becoming an advanced society capable of achieving sustainable development.Expo 2023 Doha, being held from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024, is expected to have participation from 80 countries and the arrival of three million visitors to Doha.Entry to Expo 2023 Doha is free for all visitors, according to information available on Qatar Tourism application Visit Qatar. It was also announced recently that the Hayya Card option will be in place for the visitors to the six-month expo.The Hayya Card was launched during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as a Fan ID that allowed ticket-holders' entry into Qatar and the stadiums while giving them free access to metro and bus services.The Ministry of Interior had extended the validity of the Hayya Card, allowing the card holders from outside the country to enter Qatar until January 24, 2024.

The Ministry of Transport (MoT) Tuesday revealed the sponsors and details of its “Ministry of Transport...Sustainable Transportation and Legacy for Generations” Conference and Exhibition, to be held September 17-18 at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).Qatar Airways Group, Mwani Qatar and QNB were announced as strategic sponsors, Qatar Rail and QTerminals Group platinum sponsors, Mowasalat (Karwa) gold sponsor, Fusion Group Holding silver sponsor and Milaha and Al Abdulghani Motors bronze sponsors.“This event aims at exchanging expertise, discussing views, and presenting perspectives and thoughts with our partners concerned with developing the transportation and mobility sector, as well as highlighting the sector’s new trends," said MoT’s acting assistant undersecretary, Land Transport Affairs, Engineer Hamad Essa Abdulla."It also aims at highlighting the latest developments of transportation and mobility industry; land, maritime and air, and key plans and strategies for comprehensive and gradual transitioning to an integrated, sustainable, and eco-friendly transit system,” he explained.MoT’s Public Relations and Communication Department director Lolan Abdulaziz al-Jassim said the number of participants exceeded 30, representing government ministries and agencies and the private sector, in addition to transportation and mobility entities, consulting firms working in Qatar and national and international companies.The conference features six panel discussions to be attended by over 20 speakers who represent all transportation entities and relevant ones. Sessions revolve around multiple hot topics, including Qatar’s endeavours of switching to a sustainable, eco-friendly transit system, public and rail transportation modes and their infrastructures, and developments and accomplishments of Qatar’s maritime transportation sector and its commercial ports and their capabilities of enhancing the economic development here.Topics also cover some of the key efforts and advancements of the Qatari civil aviation sector and its vital role in enhancing Qatar’s position worldwide. The sessions also highlight the role of the transportation sector in Qatar in supporting the business community and commercial, industrial, logistics and private sectors, in light of the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar al-Baker said in a message that Qatar Airways Group is proud to bring together key national transportation stakeholders to the event that will highlight Qatar’s latest achievements in the transportation industry.Salem Anzan al-Naimi, executive vice president – public relations, QNB Group, said QNB is proud to be a strategic sponsor of the key event. Hamad al-Ansari, marketing and public relations manager at Mwani Qatar, reaffirmed the agency's commitment to modernising the maritime transport industry and boosting its capabilities in accordance with MoT’s strategic plan to develop the transport sectors in the nation and ease trade, turning Qatar into a regional trading hub.QTerminals Group CEO Neville Bissett appreciated the MoT's continuous pursuit and tireless efforts aimed at laying solid foundations for achieving sustainable transportation systems in Qatar, enhancing the quality of life and securing environment protection.Abdulla Ali al-Mawlawi, communication and public relations director at Qatar Rail said its involvement as a platinum sponsor underscores the commitment to support a sustainable public transport system and a legacy for future generations.Mohamed Ahmed Abukhadija, Strategy and Projects Management Office director, Mowasalat (Karwa), said the entity takes pride in partnering with the MoT to shape a sustainable future in transportation. “This collaboration underscores our joint commitment to pioneering change. Our electric fleet, an embodiment of our vision, aligns seamlessly with the ministry's initiatives," he added.

Expo 2023 Doha Monday signed an agreement with Msheireb Properties as the official Sustainable City. In the presence of HE the Minister of Municipality Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, the agreement was signed by Expo 2023 Doha secretary general Mohamed Ali al-Khouri and Msheireb Properties CEO Ali Mohamed al-Kuwari.Msheireb Properties, a pioneering force in sustainable real estate, will play an instrumental role in supporting Expo 2023 Doha’s overarching mission of fostering sustainable practices and addressing global challenges. The partnership further aligns seamlessly with Qatar’s dedication to advancing sustainability across all facets of society and industry.“We are thrilled to welcome Msheireb Properties as our Official Sustainable City for Expo 2023 Doha. Their expertise and dedication to sustainable urban development perfectly align with the core values of our event. Together, we aim to create a lasting impact, inspire change, and pave the way for a more sustainable future,” al-Khouri said.Expo 2023 Doha will provide a platform for innovation, collaboration and global dialogue centred on sustainability. The partnership with Msheireb Properties will elevate Qatar’s commitment to sustainable development and provide a tangible look into the future through the lens of the pioneering Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) project.As part of the partnership, Msheireb Properties’ role as the Official Sustainable City will encompass several key initiatives, including a tour programme presenting the tangible achievements of MDD, a hallmark project renowned for its innovative approach to urban development and sustainable living. In addition, Msheireb Properties will also provide marketing and communication services as well as brand exposure campaigns for Expo 2023 Doha."Our support for Expo 2023 Doha is rooted in Msheireb Properties' core belief that sharing knowledge and experiences among peers and counterparts in the field of sustainable building, construction and urban planning is crucial to successfully facing the environmental challenges that lie ahead. We welcome the world to see how Msheireb Downtown Doha has pushed the boundaries of urban planning by integrating local heritage and innovation to create a smart, sustainable city of the future”, al-Kuwari noted.Expo 2023 Doha, being held from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024, is expected to have participation from 80 countries and the arrival of three million visitors to Doha.Entry to Expo 2023 Doha is free for all visitors, according to information available on Qatar Tourism application Visit Qatar. It was also announced recently that the Hayya Card option will be in place for the visitors to the six-month expo.The Hayya Card was launched during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as a Fan ID that allowed ticket-holders' entry into Qatar and the stadiums while giving them free access to metro and bus services.The Ministry of Interior had extended the validity of the Hayya Card, allowing the card holders from outside the country to enter Qatar until January 24, 2024.

Images of the violations of not wearing a seatbelt and using mobile phones while driving will be available on the Metrash 2 app, a senior official of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has said.The new unified radars will clearly capture the two violations, Maj Hamad Ali al-Muhannadi, head of the Radar and Scales Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, told Qatar TV on Wednesday.“The radars will differentiate between the seat belt and the cloth even if they are of the same colour. It’s possible to lighten or darken the image and extract a very clear image that the violator can view. We have a mechanism for processing and verifying images of violations,” al-Muhannadi said.“Using mobile phones or any visual device while driving is a violation and will attract a penalty of QR500 as per Article 54 of the Traffic Law. Avoiding seat belts while driving also attracts a fine of QR500,” he said.“Mobile phones distract attention while driving. If one browses the mobile phone for three seconds while driving at a speed of 120km/h, it causes an accident. Three seconds means travelling a very long distance while keeping such a speed,” he said, adding that the strict monitoring is initiated in order to end use of mobile phones during driving.Avoiding seatbelt is one of the most serious violations because of its damage to the driver himself. “Seatbelt is the first safety line for the driver of the vehicle because it protects the driver from the hard parts inside the vehicle in accidents,” Maj al-Muhannadi added.The General Directorate of Traffic will begin the soft activation of monitoring the two violations from Sunday (August 27), through automated radar and Tala'a cameras, a week before the official activation date, with the aim of educating road users about these violations.SMS will be sent to alert violators but no fines will be collected before the actual activation date of September 3. The authorities have urged all road users to comply with the traffic law and its executive regulations to preserve lives and property, and contribute to the great efforts made by the various authorities, stressing that traffic safety is a joint responsibility of the society too.Starting next week, MoI will launch a large-scale campaign on its social media accounts and all media outlets to promote traffic awareness among all segments of society.

There is co-operation between the national and international bodies to tackle spread of online messages that promote narcotic drugs in Qatar, a senior official at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has said.Lt Col Mohamed Abdullah al-Khater, director of the Studies and International Affairs Department at the General Directorate of Drug Enforcement at MoI, was speaking to Al Rayyan TV on Tuesday.“These messages are sent randomly. The sender doesn’t know the recipient. The main purpose of these messages is obtaining money illegally. These numbers are monitored and followed up until they are blocked by the network operators,” he said.Lt Col al-Khater stressed that circulation of such messages does not mean drugs are produced in Qatar. “Everything is under control in the country. There is no drug production or cultivation in Qatar,” he explained. He urged the public to report to the General Directorate of Drug Enforcement the number from which such messages are received in order to ensure legal measures are taken and the number is blocked.The MoI official noted that intensified awareness activities are carried in order to sensitise the public about drug abuse. “Videos of drug seizure are circulated on a regular basis to make the public aware of the measures by the authorities to tackle the threats and ill effects of drugs,” he added.

There is co-operation between the national and international bodies to tackle spread of online messages that promote narcotic drugs in Qatar, a senior official at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has said.Lt Col Mohamed Abdullah al-Khater, director of the Studies and International Affairs Department at the General Directorate of Drug Enforcement at MoI, was speaking to Al Rayyan TV on Tuesday.“These messages are sent randomly. The sender doesn’t know the recipient. The main purpose of these messages is obtaining money illegally. These numbers are monitored and followed up until they are blocked by the network operators,” he said.Lt Col al-Khater stressed that circulation of such messages does not mean drugs are produced in Qatar. “Everything is under control in the country. There is no drug production or cultivation in Qatar,” he explained. He urged the public to report to the General Directorate of Drug Enforcement the number from which such messages are received in order to ensure legal measures are taken and the number is blocked.The MoI official noted that intensified awareness activities are carried in order to sensitise the public about drug abuse. “Videos of drug seizure are circulated on a regular basis to make the public aware of the measures by the authorities to tackle the threats and ill effects of drugs,” he added.