Qatar

Young people in Qatar and across the globe are encouraged to apply for the sixth cohort of the Doha Debates Ambassador Programme, offered by Qatar Foundation’s Doha Debates.The programme equips participants with critical intercultural discussion, communication and consensus-building skills to address global problems and find collaborative solutions for a healthy, equitable future.The programme is open to fluent English speakers between the age 18-26 who have consistent access to an Internet-enabled computer for video conferencing. The deadline for applications is December 31, and interested candidates can apply at DohaDebates.com/Ambassador.The sixth cohort will be conducted in two parts to accommodate Ramadan 2025. Successful applicants will be invited to join a community of practice from January 21 to February 25, 2025, where they will explore Majlis-style debate, systems thinking and consensus building.Participants will engage in weekly virtual learning sessions guided by facilitation and intercultural communication expert Dr Brandon Ferderer and systems-thinking specialist Jennifer Geist, along with various international guest speakers. They will hone their skills through the lens of Doha Debates’ video series Better Conversations.Upon successful completion of the community of practice, cohort members will be invited to engage in five additional weeks of the programme from April 1 to May 6, 2025. They will work in small teams to produce a capstone project, creating a “virtual Majlis” that inspires, educates and promotes positive social change.Launched in 2021 with partner organisation Shared_Studios, the programme has engaged hundreds of emerging leaders, representing 50 countries in six continents. Participants learn from one another and from expert international leaders and activists, harnessing the power of dialogue and storytelling to understand and value the diverse worldviews and beliefs of their global peers.Amjad Atallah, Doha Debates’ managing director, said: “We’re proud to play a role in developing their capacity for thoughtful, brave and compassionate leadership.”

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October, Nando’s Qatar partnered with the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) to raise awareness and support breast cancer initiatives.The highlight of the campaign was the 'Pinky Promise' designer drink, introduced through a 'Pink Drink Competition' in which all 12 Nando’s casas in Qatar participated, a statement said on Tuesday.Nando’s kicked off the campaign with an awareness activity for its staff, called Nandocas, to educate them about the importance of breast cancer education and early detection.Each restaurant took part in the competition, creating unique, pink-themed drinks with Nando’s ingredients. The winning drink, 'Pinky Promise,' crafted by Sangam Bahadur Thapa Magar from Nando’s Avenue Mall at Steigenberger Hotel, became the featured drink at all locations throughout October.To further support the cause, Nando’s pledged 10% of designer drink sales, including 'Pinky Promise,' to QCS, contributing to their ongoing efforts in breast cancer prevention and education. “Partnering with QCS each year allows us to make a positive impact in the community,” said Vyanktesh Jaiswal, COO of Nando’s Qatar.Zakiya al-Mudhahka, head of Resource Development at QCS, said: "We are deeply grateful to Nando's Qatar for their ongoing support of breast cancer awareness. The campaign launched by Nando's in October is not just a marketing initiative; it is a powerful humanitarian effort that helps raise awareness about the importance of early detection and the need to adopt a healthy lifestyle."

Ooredoo Group announced today its upcoming landmark Digital Ecosystem Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, 20 November 2024, at the Ritz-Carlton, Doha.This first-of-its-kind event will bring together prominent policymakers, legal experts, industry leaders, academics and innovators. Keynote speakers include HE Minister Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary General; Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, Ooredoo Group CEO; and Hilal Mohammed Al Khulaifi, Group Chief Legal, Regulatory and Corporate Governance Officer.Together, they will address the essential policies and regulations needed to drive the growth of digital platforms and services in a rapidly evolving landscape.As digital platforms transform industries, the regulatory environment must keep pace. The conference will explore how smart, light-touch regulation can create a balanced ecosystem—one that fosters innovation and supports economic growth, while safeguarding data privacy and cybersecurity. Under the theme “Legislation and Regulation to Drive a Successful Digital Economy”, the event will cover vital topics such as policy frameworks for digital platforms, cross-border data protection, and the regulatory challenges presented by emerging technologies like AI and 5G.Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, Group CEO, Ooredoo, said: “Ooredoo has embraced its role as a digital enabler - not just as a telco but as a tech company - and we are committed to creating a sustainable, inclusive digital ecosystem. Through this Conference, we aim to position Ooredoo as a thought leader in the digital space, advocating for regulatory models that enable our digital infrastructure to reach its full potential in supporting the economy. Balanced policies are critical; while innovation is essential, so too is security, and this balance will drive opportunities for growth and investor confidence.”Hilal Mohammed Al Khulaifi, Group Chief Legal, Regulatory & Governance Officer states: “As part of Ooredoo’s strategy to lead in digital infrastructure, the company is focused on advocating for policies that support rather than restrict the digital economy. Light-touch regulation, applied evenly across sectors, can create a fertile environment for innovation and growth - an environment in which Ooredoo, as a tech company, can expand its role and seize new opportunities”.This conference is expected to yield substantial insights and deliver tangible action points for investors and stakeholders, underscoring Ooredoo’s commitment to aligning with best practices that foster long-term growth.The presence of legal experts from government departments at the conference provides a unique opportunity to enhance regulatory knowledge, enabling them to improve legal frameworks that support digital transformation and economic development.For more details and to register, please visit www.dec24.qa.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan welcomed HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.At the beginning of the meeting at Qasr Al Shati, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conveyed His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani's greetings and wishes of good health and happiness to the UAE president and continued progress and prosperity to the UAE people.Meanwhile, the UAE president entrusted HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to convey his greetings and wishes of good health and happiness to His Highness the Amir and further progress and prosperity to the Qatari people.During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to boost them.They also exchanged views on a range of regional and international issues, stressing the importance of intensifying ceasefire efforts to achieve a comprehensive calm and avert a wider Middle East conflagration to safeguard regional security and stability. (QNA)

German ambassador Lothar Freischlader is joined by Qatar's Minister of Transport HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Thani and Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Protocol director ambassador HE Ibrahim Fakhro at a cake-cutting ceremony to highlight the 'Day of German Unity' observed on Tuesday in Doha. PICTURE: Thajudheen

The Ministry of Labour, represented by the Department of Qualifying Skills and Development, and in collaboration with the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies (DI), alongside Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), organised a field and practical training course for women job seekers in the private sector holding secondary school certificates and enrolled in the "Customer Service" programme.A total of 34 female trainees participated in the programme, all holding high school diplomas, with the aim of qualifying them, advancing their skills, and preparing them for employment in the labour market. This initiative is part of the ministry's commitment to developing the national workforce by empowering Qatari job seekers and children of Qatari women. Through comprehensive training and qualification programmes delivered throughout the year, the ministry aims to meet the evolving demands of the private sector.Delivered by experts from DI and QRCS, the training combined theoretical learning from the "Customer Service" programme with practical applications. It focused on developing advanced communication and interpersonal skills using modern customer service techniques and strategies.The course also featured specialized sessions on decision-making in critical situations, effective problem-solving, and managing public interactions. Real-life case studies were examined to provide professional insights and enhance participants' performance, ensuring alignment with international and local labour market standards. The objective was to prepare participants to represent Qatar's service sectors with professionalism and excellence.Additionally, the Ministry of Labour remains committed to strengthening the capabilities of the national workforce in line with the National Strategy for an Effective and Highly Productive Workforce 2024-2030. This initiative aligns with the Third National Development Strategy, the final phase of Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasises increasing citizens participation in the labour market. By fostering empowerment, skill development, and competitiveness, these efforts aim to drive productivity, efficiency, and innovation across all sectors.

HE the Minister of State for International Co-operation, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser al-Misnad, met Tuesday with the visiting President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee (IRC), David Miliband. The meeting discussed co-operation ties between Qatar and IRC and ways to strengthen them, particularly in the Gaza Strip, Syria and other countries. Both sides shared perspectives on IRC-led efforts in conflict zones, as well as a range of topics of shared interest. (QNA)

Women filmmakers at 2024 Ajyal, presented by Doha Film Institute, are pushing the envelope in filmmaking through compelling stories that explore themes of universal resonance.Three important voices from the region, supported by the institute, shared their creative journeys at the festival.Among the women filmmakers at 2024 Ajyal, Hind Meddeb, who helmed this year's opening film, Sudan, Remember Us (France, Tunisia, Qatar), says it is a tribute to the poetic soul of the Sudanese revolution."I witnessed the Sudanese movement from its beginning, and I wasn't afraid because I found myself in the midst of it," said Meddeb, during a media briefing at 2024 Ajyal. "The most beautiful revolution was the Sudanese revolution. It was powerful because art exploded with the revolution, and our young people talked to the world through my camera." Meddab said the idea for Sudan, Remember Us, started when she was working on her earlier documentary, Paris Stalingrad which featured a young Sudanese poet who came to Paris as a refugee."The refugee centre was under my house in Paris. I was shocked at the French racism towards them, and I got to be close friends with them. They encouraged me to go to Sudan and bring back images of the revolution since they couldn't go back." She said the film's title references 'Azza,' a powerful symbol in Sudanese poetry representing the nation itself through a woman who used to recite poetry to her imprisoned nationalist husband through his prison window — a testament to the longstanding relationship between poetry and resistance in Sudanese culture.Director Marjan Khosrav, whose film Requiem for a Tribe (Iran, Spain, Qatar) depicts the story of a woman in Iran who is pressured to settle in a city, said the film's story was inspired from real life. "I met a woman crying for her children who moved from their hometown in the mountains to the city. This woman loved her heritage, culture and arts and was upset that technology hindered nomad people from practicing their arts."Meryam Joobeur, the director of Who Do I Belong To (Tunisia, France, Canada, Norway, KSA, Qatar), said it is important to take out the geo-political aspect of violence that is happening to dissect the cycle. "It is universal, and it is happening everywhere, so if you want to change the world, you should start with oneself." She said that after the Tunisian Revolution, the change created a sense of fear of the unknown.Nominated for a Golden Bear Award at the Berlin Film Festival 2024, her film, set in a remote Tunisian village, is about Aicha, whose quiet life with her husband and youngest son is shattered when her eldest son, Mehdi, returns home from war. (QNA)

ExxonMobil has appointed Dr Easa al-Musleh as the research director of ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ), succeeding Dr David Palandro, a statement said on Tuesday.Dr al-Musleh, who joined ExxonMobil Qatar in 2020 after five years of academic research, has held several key roles within the company’s Joint Venture Technical group and EMRQ.His most recent position focused on Facility and Carbon Management.Dr al-Musleh has led numerous work streams, providing technical and operational support to partners in the LNG operating business, while also contributing to strategic planning for ExxonMobil’s business in Qatar.Prior to joining ExxonMobil Qatar, Dr al-Musleh was a faculty member in the Chemical Engineering department at Qatar University (QU), where he actively engaged in both teaching and research. His research, largely conducted in collaboration with local industry partners, focused on process optimisation.“We’re excited to welcome Dr Easa al-Musleh as he steps into the role of research director at ExxonMobil Research Qatar. As we deepen our focus on Nature-Based Solutions at the centre, we look forward to making impactful contributions in this critical field under his leadership," said Taher Hamid, president and general manager for ExxonMobil Qatar.“I feel truly honoured to take on this position at such a significant time for the centre. I’m excited to team up with our skilled staff and community partners to further our research in Nature-based Solutions and create a positive impact on the environment."By applying innovative and sustainable practices, we can address environmental challenges together with our partners,” said Dr al-Musleh.He holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University, US, and a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from QU.EMRQ, established at Qatar Science and Technology Park in 2009, is one of its first anchor tenants.The centre was created to support Qatar’s research in water reuse, geoscience and environmental efforts and help fulfil the objectives of its National Vision 2030.In 2023, EMRQ transitioned into a centre for Nature-Based Solutions, highlighting ExxonMobil Qatar’s commitment to advancing research and leading projects that support Qatar’s efforts to protect and restore ecosystems, the statement added.

The US embassy has announced the start of International Education Week (IEW) 2024, taking place until November 22.This annual celebration, led by the US Department of State and the Department of Education, highlights the mutual benefits of international education, supporting exchange programmes that foster cultural understanding and inspire global leaders.This year’s theme, 'Explore,' invites Qatari students to discover the range of opportunities US higher education offers, a statement from the embassy said."With nearly 4,000 accredited institutions, flexible degree options, and diverse cultural experiences, studying in the US provides students with a transformative experience and a world-class education. Qatari students currently studying in the US serve as bridges between our cultures, bringing back skills and knowledge that enrich both Qatar and their local communities."The US embassy encourages Qatari students and families to explore study programmes, access guidance from EducationUSA, and join IEW to learn more about the unique benefits of US education," the statement added.

The first edition of Katara Championship for Falcons and Hunting started on Tuesday morning at the arena of Al Gannas Qatari Society at Ras Lafan, and will go on until November 30.The competitions started with the pre-finals of Al Da'aw (falcons speeding) competitions, where the participating falcons have shown exceptional power and skill. The difference among the winning falcons was measured in fractions of a second. Today, the competition will go on with another round of pre-finals in different categories.

The National Cyber Security Agency's (NCSA) 11th edition of the National Cyber Drill, titled "Zero-Day Survival", began on November 17. The event ends November 28. More than 170 critical entities from across the nation are taking part in the drill.The cyber drill aims to assess the readiness of participating entities in responding to zero-day vulnerabilities, which are considered unknown security gaps that attackers exploit before they are identified or patched.In addition, it will test preparedness across three core pillars of cybersecurity readiness: the human element, technological resilience, and operational capability.Khaled al-Hashimi, Director of National Cyber Enablement and Excellence Affairs at the NCSA, said at a press conference: "Since its inception as a pioneering initiative in 2013, the National Cyber Drills have become an essential annual exercise. It plays a vital role in identifying vulnerabilities, enhancing response and recovery strategies, and ultimately safeguarding national stability."Al-Hashemi emphasised that the drills are a key measure of institutional and individual readiness to combat cyber security risks. It contributes to strengthening economic and organisational growth while enhancing human capabilities, aligning with the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.Mohammed al-Mannai, Director of National Cyber Program Delivery Department, highlighted that this year's drill involves more than 1,600 participants from 12 different sectors. For the first time, entities from the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) joined alongside local cyber security service providers and students competing in the "Capture the Flag" exercise.Al-Mannai elaborated on four tailored scenarios crafted for this year's drill. Each scenario aligns with the unique roles and responsibilities of the entities involved.The first scenario targets local entities, the second engages student participants, the third provides a highly advanced scenario to test cyber security service providers who offer services that organisations rely on, while the fourth is specifically designed for GCC participants.Through the National Cyber Drill, the NCSA aims to strengthen the cyber capabilities of critical entities, enhancing their cyber efficiency by identifying vulnerabilities and fortifying defences.The agency's teams will conduct in-depth assessments of all participants, analyse results, and deliver comprehensive support to strengthen resilience, contributing to the development of the national cybersecurity system. (QNA)

The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated the achievements of its students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony.A total of 54 outstanding undergraduates and graduates across various academic disciplines were recognised.The event was attended by UDST president Dr Salem al-Naemi, and featured as guest speaker alumnus Dr Mohammed al-Jefairi, chief executive of Sidra Holding and innovator highlighted on *Stars of Science.Students were honoured in eight categories: Academic Excellence Award, Academic Merit Award, Academic Distinction Award, Foundation Programme Award, Industrial Trades Dean Award, Achievement Award, Applied Research Award, and Innovation Award.The Academic Excellence Awards were presented to students with the highest weighted averages in their respective programmes: Master’s Degree – Ahmed Abdalla Abdelazim (College of Business), Bachelor’s Degree – Madhavi Anilkumar (College of Business), Advanced Diploma – Jassim Mohammed al-Maraghi (College of Engineering and Technology), and Two-Year Diploma – Mohamed Mostafa Elgamal (College of Computing and IT).“Each award represents a commitment to excellence that goes beyond academic boundaries and reflects the UDST’s role in preparing leaders who will make a positive impact on our society,” said Dr al-Naemi. “This ceremony is not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a reminder of our collective pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and sustainable development.”The Innovation Award in the College of Computing and IT was awarded to Mohamed Fathi Ali, recognised for his AI-driven cybersecurity innovations.His top 1% ranking in the US Department of Defence’s Cyber Sentinel Challenge earned him prestigious internships.Ali is the co-leader of UDST’s Cybersecurity Club.His startup, “BeMySense”, an artificial intelligence (AI) solution for the visually impaired, also won the 3rd Place in the Startup Track at the Arab AI & IoT challenge in GITEX, Dubai.In the College of Engineering and Technology, Farah Yaser Khattab also received the Innovation Award for her work in sustainable solutions like decentralised solar charging and waste-to-compost facilities.Her award-winning projects, presented at national and international forums, highlight her leadership in environmental research.The Applied Research Award went to Hind Saleh al-Mohannadi of the College of Health Sciences, and recognised for her research on brain structure changes in obese patients, and study on radiation safety in healthcare.All recipients of the Academic Excellence and Academic Merit Awards received monetary awards, as well as university certificates, with distinctions noted on their official transcripts.

Sidra Medicine, part of Qatar Foundation, will host the first-ever Gulf Paediatric Critical Care Conference “Forging Connections: Enhancing Care for Critically Ill Children” from January, 23-26, 2025.The landmark conference is the first-of-its-kind to be held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and will feature local and international speakers and experts to discuss the latest advancements and best practices in paediatric critical care and intensive care (PICU).Dr Ricardo Munoz, chief of Cardiac Critical Care Medicine at Children's National Hospital, Washington, US; Dr Vinay Nadkarni of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Dr Barney Scholefield from SickKids Hospital in Toronto are to speak.Sidra Medicine's Paediatric Critical Care division chief Dr Ikram Haque is the conference chair.The organising committee includes members from renowned institutions in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman. International experts include members from Canada, Spain, Indonesia, Brazil, Argentina, the UK and the US.Dr Patricia Abboud, senior attending physician and medical director in the PICU at Sidra Medicine, said: “We encourage our peers and colleagues from the GCC and abroad, to join us as we shape the future of pediatric critical care through collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise.”-

The Ministry of Municipality, represented by Doha Municipality, in co-operation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, has launched a competition for the best sustainable practices at school gardens.The competition aims to encourage the students to adopt agriculture and take care for plants, in addition to enhancing environmental awareness among school students.Accordingly, every participating school would allocate a part of the school garden to establish a mini garden model.The competition is open to all the preparatory and secondary schools within Doha Municipality.Each participating school should have a space of at least 30sq m allocated for agriculture.The participating work team should include 10 students.In addition, schools should not hire private companies to undertake such works related to the competition, except for the construction works and installing irrigation networks.The duration of the competition is 75 days.Application to the competition can be submitted through the related post of the Ministry of Municipality on the X platform, with only the first 30 schools submitting application accepted to take part.The allocated prizes are QR10,000 for the first place, QR7,000 for the second, and QR5,000 for the third place.There will be consolation prizes for five schools.All the participants will receive appreciation certificates.

Doha Municipality officially inaugurated Al Rayhan Park in South Duhail on Monday.The park falls within the administrative boundaries of the municipality and serves as a lasting legacy of Expo 2023 Doha.Built using recycled materials from international gardens exhibited during Expo 2023, the park embodies principles of sustainability and innovation in garden design.This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Municipality's commitment to promoting sustainable development and environmentally conscious urban planning.Speaking at the inauguration, Doha Municipality director-general Mansour Ajran al-Buainain highlighted the park's significance as a community-focused project that aligns with the Ministry of Municipality's 2024-2030 strategy and Qatar's National Development Strategy, derived from Qatar National Vision 2030.“The opening of Al Rayhan Park is a testament to our dedication to sustainable development and our responsiveness to the needs of residents in the Duhail area,” he said. “This park is designed to enhance the well-being of citizens and residents by providing a dedicated space for walking, jogging, and outdoor recreation.”Al-Buainain praised the collaboration between various sectors and community members in expanding green spaces across Doha.He noted that the ministry is keen to develop new public parks and neighbourhood parks that adhere to international standards.Constructed in a record time of six months, Al Rayhan Park incorporates materials repurposed from the FIFA World Cup, such as chairs and lighting, as well as elements from other rehabilitated parks.This approach underscores the park's sustainability, with its design centred on reusing and recycling.Key features of Al Rayhan Park include a 400m rubber-surfaced sports walkway, a 2,600sq m green area featuring approximately 1,300sq m of natural grass and landscaping, and a diverse selection of greenery, including 2,583 palm trees, various shrubs, and ground covers, irrigated using state-of-the-art methods.There are also facilities for families, including eight children's play areas, six informational signboards, 24 lighting poles, and 18 public benches.In a symbolic gesture during the inauguration, ministry officials joined scout students to plant trees native to Qatar, contributing to the Ten Million Trees Initiative, which aims to expand Qatar's green cover and combat environmental challenges. – QNA

Legal aspects of Qatar’s approach to diagnosing and treating autism was the subject of a recent roundtable discussion organised by Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Law.Autism and the Law: A Path for Qatar brought together legal, scientific, medical, and policy experts to consider the country’s existing landscape for supporting individuals with autism.An interdisciplinary and comparative analysis enabled participants to identify shortcomings in Qatar’s autism approaches and propose legal and other reforms to help fill the gaps.Consideration was also given to the increasingly important role artificial intelligence and other technologies play in the diagnosis and treatment of the condition.Opening remarks were delivered by Susan L Karamanian, dean, College of Law, who also moderated the panel discussion featuring Lorri Unumb, CEO, The Council of Autism Service Providers; Dr Dena al-Thani, associate professor, HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering; Dr Barry Solaiman, assistant professor, HBKU’s College of Law; and Dr Hira F Amin, assistant professor, HBKU’s College of Public Policy.The proceedings concluded with questions and answers and further contributions from the audience.“Our discussion was local in scope yet informed by insights from jurisdictions outside Qatar,” remarked Karamanian.“Unumb is a leading legal expert on autism in the US; the audience and other panelists were moved by her inspiring journey of how she ensured that each state in the US enacted legislation, Ryan’s Law named after her son, to have autism diagnosis and treatment covered by health insurance. Her journey resonated with the audience as many have family members and friends with autism.”

QNB Group has signed a partnership agreement with the Qatari Autism Society to support and empower people with autism disorder, supporting Qatar’s efforts to become an autism-friendly nation and pave the way for greater social awareness of the support autistic individuals, in line with QNV 2030.The agreement was signed by Heba al-Tamimi, Senior Executive Vice President (Group Communication) at QNB and Sheikha Jawaher bint Fahad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani, Chairperson, Qatari Autism Society.This partnership comes within QNB Group's role in supporting people with autism and their families to break down barriers and overcome challenges, in line with the national initiatives that culminated in the unanimous adoption by the UN General Assembly of Qatar's proposal to declare April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day and the launch of the National Autism Plan.It also reflects QNB's firm commitment to empowering all segments of society and promoting the values of understanding and integration in all the countries in which it operates, thus enhancing its position as a leading financial institution that takes it upon itself to develop segments with particular need for the added value they represent in society.Commenting on the partnership, Heba al-Tamimi said, “At QNB, we are committed to fostering an inclusive society where everyone can thrive. This partnership with the Qatari Autism Society reflects our dedication to empowering individuals with autism, providing them with the opportunities they need to succeed.“It also stresses our values to make a positive impact on society by building strategic partnerships with leading organisations and institutions in Qatar and around the world that have made QNB more than a bank, but rather a socially responsible financial institution.”Sheikha Jawaher said, “This partnership with a leading financial institution is a unique opportunity to achieve our aim to build inclusive communities for individuals with autism.“We look forward to further this co-operation to implement our programmes and initiatives which aim to increase understanding and acceptance and foster support for individuals living with autism in Qatar.”

Mouawad is proud to unveil the ‘Symphony Collection’, a stunning new jewelry line created in collaboration with Dana Al Fardan, Qatar’s first female composer and singer-songwriter. This collection embodies the essence of personal expression, transformation, and emotional resonance, inspired by piano keys, this line offers striking adornments designed for contemporary jewelry lovers.Dana Al Fardan, a trailblazer for a new generation of creatives, brings her artistic vision to life with Mouawad through pieces inspired by the transformative power of music. With a shared dedication to excellence and legacy, this partnership celebrates meaningful connections, profound beauty, and artistic expression.The layering of jewelry is multifaceted, as-is Dana’s latest exclusive composition ‘Lux Aeterna’ that commemorates this auspicious occasion: “This collection is meant to bring together all the various components of ourselves, creating a unified whole. It’s where we can shine in our everlasting fullest light, this is the inner strength and sanctuary that is Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light)”, said Dana Al Fardan.The design concept of the ‘Symphony Collection’ draws inspiration from the iconic elements of music. Pieces incorporate the graphic symbolism of vertical music bars and the timeless black-and-white keys of a piano. Black jade and white diamonds—signature elements in the collection—reflect a refined yet luxurious aesthetic. The black jade symbolizes courage and strength, encouraging resilience and confidence when facing life’s challenges. In contrast, the brilliance of white diamonds symbolizes clarity of thought and enlightenment, representing the wisdom to see clearly and make insightful decisions.The collection includes earrings with gems that ripple with movement, mirroring the rhythm of music, and a sliding diamond rail in a bangle that reflects the dynamism inherent in every composition. The ‘Symphony Collection’ offers a sophisticated fusion of innovation and timeless artistry, making each piece a celebration of musical and personal expression.Fred Mouawad, Co-Guardian of Mouawad, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: "Working with Dana Al Fardan on the Symphony Collection has been an inspiring journey. Her creativity and vision align beautifully with Mouawad’s mission of crafting extraordinary pieces. This collection perfectly bridges the worlds of music and jewelry, offering a modern yet timeless celebration of individuality and elegance."Speaking of her excitement for the partnership, Dana Al Fardan stated: "Collaborating with Mouawad on the Symphony Collection has been a truly rewarding experience. To me, music constitutes the building blocks of everything. In my mind, everything concrete has a corresponding musical expression that gives it a lasting form. And to see its essence, translated into exquisite jewelry is incredibly meaningful. The jewelry design is embedded in the framework of the orchestra and its principal underlying feature that is built upon harmony”.The ‘Symphony Collection’, launched today in Doha, reflects Mouawad’s ongoing commitment to crafting exceptional pieces that resonate with meaning and elegance. This collaboration showcases a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, artistry, and emotional connection, leaving a lasting legacy for those who wear and cherish it.

Qatar Airways Cargo has launched s new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group.This partnership, inaugurated today by Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer Cargo, Mark Drusch, and MASkargo’s Chief Executive, Mark Jason Thomas, marks a significant milestone in enhancing global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.The collaboration, which officially began on October 1, has already seen the successful movement of approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo, including over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals.Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights will now operate from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes. The strategic partnership will further solidify connectivity and efficiency to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a swift connection time of just eight hours in Kuala Lumpur.The strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport and Kuala Lumpur International Airport will play a pivotal role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities.The agreement benefits both parties, allowing MASkargo to access key points in Europe, GCC, Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and North East Asia. It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets.Drusch said: “As the world’s leading global air cargo carrier, this partnership with MASkargo is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service and tailored solutions while expanding our global network through strategic alliances.“By combining our strengths, we are able to offer our customers enhanced connectivity and efficiency, ensuring their products reach global markets in optimal condition. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and remain committed to setting the standard for excellence in the air cargo industry.”Thomas noted: “Today marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo as we join forces with Qatar Airways Cargo to create a truly interconnected global cargo network. This partnership represents a significant advancement in MASkargo’s mission to connect our customers to the world with increased speed and efficiency.“With this partnership, MASkargo is now better positioned than ever to serve as a bridge between South East Asia and key international destinations.This alliance with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens our infrastructure and capacity, empowering us to support the regional economy and facilitate the movement of high-demand goods to a larger global market, furthermore, setting new standards in cargo transportation”.In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies.This strategic joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing cargo offerings.The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines extends beyond cargo. As members of the oneworld alliance, both airlines have a strong partnership on the passenger side as well. The codeshare agreement, which includes 62 destinations across Malaysia, South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, exemplifies their commitment to providing seamless travel experiences.The strategic MoU signed in 2022 further enhances this partnership, facilitating an increase in flight options and destinations for passengers.