Qatar

All Qatar Museums (QM) institutions will continue to be open Thursday to the public as per usual schedule, though declared official holiday by the Amiri Diwan.The museums opening hours are as follows: National Museum of Qatar: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday: 9am – 7pm; Tuesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am – 9pm; Friday: 1.30pm – 7pm.Museum of Islamic Art - Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Saturday: 9am – 7pm; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am – 9pm; Friday: 1.30pm – 7pm.3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday: 9am – 7pm; Tuesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am – 9pm; Friday: 1.30pm – 7pm.Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art - Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday: 9am -7pm; Monday: Closed; Thursday: 9am – 9pm; Friday: 1.30pm – 7pm.

Weather inshore until 6:00 pm on Wednesday will be misty to foggy at most areas at first, becomes moderate temperature to relatively hot daytime, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather report, warning of poor horizontal visibility at most places at first.Offshore, the weather will be hazy to misty at places at first becomes fine, the report added.Wind inshore will be mainly northwesterly at a speed of 5 - 15 KT guesting to 21 KT at places at times.Offshore, it will be northwesterly to northeasterly at a speed of 5 - 15 KT guesting to 21 KT at places at times.Sea state inshore will be 1 - 2 ft at places at times; while offshore, it will be 2 - 4 ft rises to 6 ft at places at times.Visibility inshore will be 3 - 8 km / 1 km or at most places at first.Offshore will be 4 - 10 km / 3 km or less at places at first.

HE Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the President and CEO of QatarEnergy Eng. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi concluded a working visit to Japan during which he held meetings with senior Japanese industry leaders on cooperation in the energy sector.HE Minister Al Kaabi held separate meetings with senior executives of major Japanese energy, power, and shipping companies including JERA, Chubu Electric, Mitsui, Marubeni, Idemitsu, Kansai Electric, Tohoku Electric, as well as MOL, NYK, and K-Line shipping companies.The discussions focused on existing and future cooperation, and further strengthening the bilateral relations in the energy sector.

Al Rayyan International University College (ARIU) on Tuesday announced the grand opening of the EuroCHRIE 2024 Conference, being held for the first time in Qatar.The event has brought together over 150 delegates from more than 35 countries, serving as a premier platform for educators, researchers, and industry leaders to exchange insights and build connections within the hospitality and tourism sectors.HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani welcomed delegates to Qatar, underscoring the nation’s dedication to fostering global knowledge exchange and collaboration.Mona El Helbawi, general manager of Al Rayyan Investment in Education and Sports (ARIES) Group, under whose umbrella ARIU operates, said: “As an organisation dedicated to culture, education, leisure, and sports, we are committed to fostering global connections that empower academic and industry leaders to navigate the challenges and opportunities of our evolving world.”The conference theme, ‘Hospitality and Tourism in a New Era: Building Bridges and Overcoming Challenges’, reflects the evolving nature of the industry, emphasising the importance of connecting past traditions with future innovations.The event takes place in locations across Doha, including the Qatar National Museum, ARIU’s modern campus, the Raffles Hotel, and the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum.Prof Ivan Ninov, executive dean of ARIU and EuroCHRIE 2024 Conference chair, said Qatar, with its unique blend of authenticity and modernity, serves as the perfect backdrop for fostering dialogue and shaping the future of hospitality and tourism education.Prof Florian Aubke, president of EuroCHRIE, said the gathering presents a unique opportunity to exchange insights and innovations that will shape the future of hospitality and tourism education.

The General Referendum Committee, led by HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, Minister of Interior, announced Tuesday the official adoption of the results of the 2024 referendum on the proposed constitutional amendments to the country’s permanent constitution.These results were submitted by the Executive Committee following the completion of vote counting and tallying through paper ballots, electronic voting, and the Metrash2 application. The committee expresses its sincere gratitude to Qatar’s wise leadership and the honourable Qatari people for the success of this national milestone, exemplifying unity and cohesion across all segments of Qatari society.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani affirmed that Qataris celebrated Tuesday the fruits of what the forefathers planted in terms of unity, solidarity and love for the country, by participating in the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments to the countrys permanent constitution.His Highness the Amir said in a post on his official X account that Qataris celebrated with the fruits of the labors of the forefathers, showing solidarity and love for the country and showcasing the values of unity and justice, stressing that those values will be protected and preserved.

HE the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the General Referendum Committee Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani announced that the draft constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of Qatar received a popular approval rate of 90.6% of the total valid votes.HE Sheikh Khalifa said that the results of the referendum resulted in the participation of 84% of eligible citizens, as the percentage of votes in favour of the constitutional amendments reached 89%, while the percentage of votes that did not approve reached 9.2%, while the percentage of invalid votes was 1.8% .

Souq Waqif Art Center has achieved a distinguished participation in the first Freej Art and Design Festival, currently organised by the Ministry of Culture at Darb Al Saai as part of the cultural season activities.The Center is participating in the event along with 18 state institutions to enrich the artistic scene in the country.Manager of Souq Waqif Art Center Rowdha al-Mansoori told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the Center's participation contributes to the cultural and artistic movement in the country, with the center holding a pioneer cultural position.The participation aims to provide the opportunity for the largest segment of society to closely view what the Center offers in terms of events and workshops throughout the year, in addition to its various departments that deal with different types of arts including drawing, sculpture, ceramics and calligraphy.Al-Mansoori added that those who visited the Center during the festival days would be given priority to participate in the side workshops organised by the Center.After the center's participation in the Freej Art and Design Festival ends, the focus will be on art workshops and art exhibitions that will be presented in creative ways, she added.Several artists affiliated with the center were distributed throughout the festival space, and implemented their works and creations directly in front of the audience.The Festival will conclude its activities today evening. It aims to celebrate the contemporary art scene in Qatar, build bridges of communication and create an interactive platform between artists to highlight the various artistic aspects, as well as enrich the cultural scene in Qatar.The Festival also seeks to be a global platform that celebrates artistic creativity, cultural exchange and encourages dialogue between artists and the public.(QNA)

The Ministry of Culture on Monday organised a cultural seminar titled 'Art Residency: Painting Making and Artist Formation,' as part of the Freej Art and Design Festival.This festival marks the launch of the new cultural season's activities at Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal, running through November 6.The seminar focused on the art residency programme led by Qatar Museums, highlighting its role in promoting visual arts and fostering Qatari talent.Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, Abdulrahman Abdullah al-Dulaimi, emphasised on the sidelines of the seminar that the ministry is committed to advancing the visual arts sector. He described the Freej Art and Design Festival as a vibrant platform that brings together artists from diverse disciplines, offering them a space to showcase their works and engage with Qatar's artistic landscape.Al-Dulaimi added that the festival goes beyond artistic displays, extending its cultural impact through symposia that explore the origins and evolution of contemporary art in Qatar. Additionally, the festival includes numerous experimental elements and offers workshops for both adults and children new to the art world, aimed at refining and nurturing their artistic skills.The Freej Art and Design Festival showcases a wide range of artistic forms for all ages. The Qatari House pavilion features Qatari heritage and culture, presenting artworks that capture the essence of Qatari identity. The Gallery' space displays an extensive collection of paintings from various participating artists, while Freej Al-Jex includes eight unique sections focused on digital arts and diverse artistic expressions. This section brings together artists to present aspects of Qatari culture and both modern and traditional artifacts.Scheduled to conclude today, the Freej Art and Design Festival serves as a dynamic celebration of art and creativity, with participation from 19 organisations and more than 100 local and international artists and designers. This diversity of artistic approaches enhances the cultural and artistic scene in Qatar.

The National Archives of Qatar board of trustees chairman HE Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah casts his vote Tuesday in the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of the country.

HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, the Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, casting her vote.

The embassy of Italy in Doha on Monday celebrated the 'Italian National Unity and Armed Forces Day', held on the occasion of the anniversary of the end to World War I, a statement said. The ceremony was attended by Italian ambassador Paolo Toschi, Italian defence attaché Colonel Fausto Ricchetti, and Italian Representative to the Nato Military Committee Admiral Dario Giacomin, diplomats, members of the Italian and Qatari armed forces and other dignitaries. The embassy noted that the celebration was an opportunity to reaffirm the strong co-operation in the defence sector between Qatar and Italy, outlined in the occasion of the State Visit of His Highness the Amir to Rome on October 20-22. The embassy noted that the ever growing partnership between Qatar and Italy will be uniquely honoured by the stationing of the ship 'Amerigo Vespucci', the oldest active military vessel in the Italian Navy, at Old Doha Port from December 17-22 on the occasion of Qatar’s National Day. Commissioned in 1931, it is an historical, iconic, training ship, as well as Ambassador of Unesco and Unicef. A unique and inimitable symbol of Italy’s maritime and cultural heritage, the ship will be accessible to the public through on board visits. An 'Italian Village' will be set up alongside the ship, with the aim of promoting Italian culture, art, and lifestyle through conferences, business and institutional meetings, movies, concerts, cooking shows, immersive exhibitions, art, sport, technology, design. “The presence of the ship in Qatar, as well as the rich programme of activations that will be arranged within the Village will be our way to homage the success of our bilateral partnership: a special gift from Italy to Qatar as remarked by the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, to His Highness the Amir during his State Visit to Rome in October” the envoy said. Defence attaché Colonel Ricchetti said: “The 2024 National Unity Day and Armed Forces Day’s claim is, ‘Siamo l’Italia’ (We are Italy). A nation that embraces the future with confidence, supported by the exceptional dedication of our armed forces both at home and abroad, especially during crisis and emergency situations. “Silently and consistently, men and women from Italian Armed Forces bring everyday safety and peace across four continents, supporting 35 active missions around the world. “My sincere thanks goes to our counterpart, my friends in Qatar, for their partnership: our joint efforts have fostered a spirit of co-operation that strengthens not only our missions but also the bonds between our nations”, he said.

Qatar Museums (QM) has officially opened 'Seeing Is Believing: The Art and Influence of Gérôme', an exhibition that delves into the art and legacy of the renowned French painter and sculptor Jean-Léon Gérôme (1824-1904).In honour of the 200th anniversary of the artist’s birth, the exhibition is organised by the upcoming Lusail Museum in partnership with Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, and curated by Emily Weeks, guest curator, Lusail Museum; Giles Hudson, curator of Photographs, Lusail Museum; and Sara Raza, guest curator, Mathaf.On view until February 22, 2025, the exhibition showcases more than 300 works, organised into three interconnected sections that aim to invite a reconsideration of Gérôme's art and artistic impact through both historical and contemporary lenses.The exhibition was inaugurated by QM chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, accompanied by Lusail Museum director Dr Julia Gonnella, and Mathaf director Zeina Arida.Seeing Is Believing provides a comprehensive exploration of Gérôme’s life and travels throughout the Mena region, shedding light on his profound impact on European perceptions of the region.The exhibition showcases iconic paintings from the Lusail Museum’s exceptional collection of Orientalist art, works from Mathaf’s collection of Arab modern art and QM’s general collections alongside notable loans from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Islamic Arts Museum in Malaysia, as well as private collections and art galleries.The exhibition pairs Gérôme’s historical works with contemporary art works and newly commissioned pieces from contemporary artists, including Babi Badalov and Nadia Kaabi-Linke.The exhibition unfolds across three interconnected sections: A Wider Lens, A New Gérôme presents new research on Gérôme’s life, artistic techniques, and travels, showcasing works that illustrate his influence on subsequent generations of artists; Truth is Stranger than Fiction highlights the relationship between Gérôme’s paintings and contemporary photography, offering insights into how the medium influenced his artistic practice and perception of the East; and I Swear I Saw That situates Gérôme’s work within a contemporary, post-colonial context, featuring modern interpretations that challenge traditional narratives and provoke discussions about identity and power structures.Seeing Is Believing is organised as a legacy of Qatar–France 2020 Year of Culture, a year-long programme of collaborations between institutions across both countries. The exhibition is designed by Duncan McCauley Studio (Berlin).Seeing Is Believing: The Art and Influence of Gérôme is presented as part of the Fall/Winter 2024-2025 Season of Qatar Creates - a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of Qatar’s creative industries and promoting cultural activities within the country.

The Amiri Diwan has announced that in celebration of the national unity demonstrated in Qatar, represented by the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of Qatar, it has been decided that Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 6 and 7, 2024, will be official holidays. Employees are set to resume work on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024.The Qatar Central Bank Tuesday announced that Wednesday and Thursday will be holidays for employees of financial institutions also. These institutions will re-open on Sunday, 10th of November.According to an official statement, the official holidays are also applicable to students and staff of public and private schools.

The Qatar Boat Show 2024 is set to kick off Wednesday at Old Doha Port, bringing together marine industry leaders from around the world in Doha.Welcoming a diverse audience of boat and yacht owners, water sports enthusiasts, captains, sailors, and divers, among others, organisers said the four-day event will highlight the country's growing status as a hub for maritime lifestyle and deliver an immersive experience for both visitors and exhibitors.Announcing the completion of all arrangements and preparations for the show, Old Doha Port CEO and chairman of the Organising Committee Abdulla al-Mulla said: “This involves enhancing the maritime tourism sector in the country and establishing the port as a prominent tourist landmark in the heart of Doha, making it one of the most important marine tourism destinations in the Middle East. All the exhibition spaces for the exhibitors, including display areas and yacht berths and boats, have been sold out.”The landmark event will feature local, regional, and international brands to showcase a diverse range of marine and luxury lifestyle products as well as highlight the latest advancements in marine sports, diving, and fishing equipment from leading manufacturers.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) destroyer Murasame paid a three-day goodwill visit to Qatar, a statement from the Japanese embassy said Tuesday.The ship, which departed from Yokosuka-Japan on October 5, arrived at Old Doha Port on November 2, and continued its journey to Bahrain before participating in anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden.This marks the fourth time a Japanese vessel has visited Doha, fostering strong defence ties between Japan and Qatar. Previous visits occurred in 1991, 2001, and 2012. However, this is the first time a destroyer has docked in Doha, signifying the deepening of the bilateral defence relationship, the embassy said.The Murasame, which accommodates more than 200 personnel, welcomed members of the Japanese community in Qatar for an onboard tour on November 2.On November 3, Staff Brigadier General/ Abdulrahman Yousuf Talfat, Commander of the Qatari Amiri Naval Operation Centre Forces toured the Murasame and joined a luncheon hosted by Commander Masahiro Hayakawa. After that, Military attaché stationed in Qatar also toured the Murasame.On November 4, the ship’s crew, led by Commander Hayakawa conducted a training exercise with a Qatari Naval Vessel Al-Khor.The Murasame hosted a photo exercise and other events to further strengthen friendly relations and mutual understanding with the Qatari Navy.

HE the Speaker of the Shura Council, Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim, has affirmed the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to strengthening joint parliamentary work among Asian countries, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in achieving sustainable development and economic prosperity, which would positively impact Asian nations and support regional stability.Addressing the inaugural session of the meeting of the Standing Committee on Budget and Planning of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) which is hosted by Doha, he underlined Qatar's belief in the importance of dialogue and coordination among the Asian parliaments to surmount the shared challenges and craft effective collaborative strategies.He pointed out that the State of Qatar, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, exerts significant efforts to enhance cooperation in all realms, citing the Third Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit, hosted by Doha last October, as a key step toward reinvigorating constructive dialogue and forging strategic partnerships among Asian countries to achieve shared objectives.HE Al Ghanim highlighted that hosting these meetings in Doha underscores Qatar's commitment to playing a leading role in strengthening joint parliamentary action. He indicated that these meetings are a crucial milestone for presenting innovative ideas and solutions to the financial and planning challenges facing the APA, particularly in light of the complex global economic conditions.The Speaker of the Shura Council elucidated that economic cooperation and sustainable development are among the top priorities in Asian parliamentary discussions, stressing that overwhelming challenges such as poverty and climate change require holistic solutions and integrated international cooperation.HE Al Ghanim affirmed that education and the advancement of human capacities represent two core pillars for achieving comprehensive and sustainable development, enabling Asian communities to build generations capable of advancing a brighter and enduring future.He highlighted that the development of joint infrastructure strengthens ties among nations, expedites trade and technological exchange, and thus accelerates the growth of Asian economies while enhancing regional cooperation. He underlined that the role of parliaments goes beyond enacting laws and legislation, extending to achieving a balance between economic and sociopolitical objectives to ensure the sustainability of resources and fulfill nations' aspirations for a prosperous future.HE Al Ghanim hoped that these meetings would generate effective outcomes in line with the scale of the current challenges and meet the shared ambitions of the Asian countries, emphasising the importance of having pragmatic and actionable discussions to enhance joint parliamentary action and give impetus to socioeconomic development.In his closing remarks at the inauguration of the committee's meeting, he underlined that these meetings provide a unique opportunity to share expertise and offer innovative strategic perspectives. He called on those in attendance to fully capitalize on this convention to strengthen dialogue and ties among Asian parliaments, aiming to build a more sustainable and secure future for the peoples of Asia. This would help boost the spirit of collaboration and fraternity among all, in addition to fostering an environment for discussion and the sharing of constructive ideas.The meeting of the APA Standing Committee on Budget and Planning brings together parliamentary delegations from APA member states and will continue until Wednesday, Oct. 6, to discuss the APA budget, review the committee's work reports, and provide updates on its activities.On the margins of the opening session, HE Al Ghanim held separate meetings with the Deputy Chairman of the State Duma at the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation and head of the Russian parliamentary delegation, Chernyshov Boris Alexandrovich, as well as the Member of the Consultative Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran and member of the Iranian parliamentary delegation to the meeting, Dr. Mohsen Zanganeh.The meetings addressed existing parliamentary relations and avenues for strengthening them, in addition to a range of topics on the meetings agenda.A host of Their Excellencies, members of the Shura Council, attended the opening session and the two meetings.

HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari has said that the referendum on the constitutional amendments for 2024 in response to the call of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani represents a distinctive model of active popular participation. In a statement, HE the Minister noted that the referendum on the constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of the State of Qatar reflects national unity and the strong bond between the wise leadership and its citizens.

For the first time in Doha, the 8th edition of the World of Yachts Conference gathered leading marine experts from Qatar, the region, and around the world.The exhibition was organised as a precursor to the Qatar Boat Show, which opens Wednesday at Old Doha Port, offering insights and discussions on the latest developments in the maritime industry.The conference featured panel discussions on how yachting tourism is reshaping national identities and the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation, exploring both opportunities and challenges in the maritime industry.Organisers said the event at St Regis Doha achieved its mission of advancing global yachting development while raising awareness and interest in all facets of the maritime industry.With a strong emphasis on evolving business practices, emerging markets, and new destinations, the conference showcased advancements and technological innovations in the maritime industry, highlighting sustainable practices and eco-friendly solutions shaping the industry's future.Attendees discussed market trends while experts presented their take on growth opportunities.The collaborative atmosphere fostered networking and inspired new partnerships to drive growth and innovation in maritime ventures across the globe.This mission of advancing the maritime industry resonates deeply with Old Doha Port, which has transformed into a bustling tourist destination and positioned Qatar as a premier hub that celebrates its maritime heritage and rich seafaring traditions, all while embracing continuous innovation and purposeful impact.Old Doha Port CEO Mohamed Abdulla al-Mulla, also the chairman of the Organising Committee of the Qatar Boat Show 2024, inaugurated the conference with his opening speech.“The World of Yachts Conference has brought a rare opportunity to Qatar, allowing us to exchange views and experiences and inspire one another within the marine industry. At Old Doha Port, we are excited to support this unique gathering of global expertise, driving forward both tradition and innovation in the maritime industry. Together, we are fostering partnerships that will propel the future of yachting and marine tourism across the region and beyond,” al-Mulla said.Ibrahim Farhat, managing director of the World of Yachts Group, said: “This event marks a transformative moment in the yachting world, opening new doors and creating exciting opportunities for growth and innovation in the region. We look forward to showcasing Qatar’s unique maritime heritage and contributing to the industry’s vibrant future.”Gulf Craft chairman Mohammed Hussein al-Shaali said: “I believe that this conference covered numerous aspects of yacht making in the region and in Qatar."By hosting the inaugural edition of the Qatar Boat Show from November 6 to 9, Old Doha Port is drawing attention to Qatar’s rich coastal roots and boosting the local economy through tourism.By attracting over 20,000 visitors and more than 450 marine brands, the event showcases Qatar’s capacity to host large-scale, internationally relevant events, reinforcing its status as a leading destination for maritime tourism

HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie expressed his happiness at the large voter turnout in Tuesday's referendum on the constitutional amendments to the permanent constitution of the State of Qatar.He said in press statements that the large voter turnout consolidates public participation and confirms national cohesion and solidarity among all members of the Qatari people. HE Al Subaie hailed the constitutional amendments as a vital step in the path of enhancing good governance, especially since they come within the framework of the state's ongoing efforts to achieve a comprehensive national vision based on modernizing the legal system and developing its tools in a manner that keeps pace with regional and international transformations and enhances transparency and accountability in government work, leads to consolidating the principle of the rule of law and ensures good performance for all state institutions in the process of progress.