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Pakistan’s capital was put under a security lockdown on Sunday amid protests by supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan calling for his release.Highways leading to Islamabad through which supporters of Khan, led by members of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, approached the city, have been blocked.Most major roads of the city have also been blocked by the government with shipping containers and large contingents of police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed in riot gear, while mobile phone services have been suspended.The PTI reported multiple arrests and the use of tear gas and shelling by government forces in Islamabad as part of ongoing efforts to suppress protests. According to PTI sources, security agencies have detained numerous protestors advocating for political reforms and opposing the current administration.The PTI alleged that the government employed heavy-handed tactics, including the use of tear gas canisters and live ammunition, to disperse demonstrators gathering in key areas of the capital. These actions have heightened tensions between the opposition party and state authorities, with PTI accusing the government of undermining democratic freedoms and the right to peaceful assembly.In response to the escalating situation, government officials have issued a firm statement pledging to halt the protests “no matter what.” The administration has called for an end to what it describes as unlawful gatherings that disrupt public peace and safety.Human rights organisations expressed concern over the reported use of force against protestors, urging both the government and opposition parties to engage in dialogue to resolve differences peacefully. They called for an independent investigation into the alleged abuses to ensure accountability and protect citizens’ rights.As the situation unfolds, Islamabad remains on high alert with increased security presence in major protest hotspots. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, with several foreign observers advocating for restraint and the protection of democratic processes.Global internet watchdog NetBlocks said on X that live metrics showed WhatsApp messaging services had been restricted ahead of the protests.A key Khan aid, Ali Amin Gandapur, who is the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and was expected to lead the largest convoy into Islamabad, called on people to gather near the entrance of the city’s red zone, known as “D Chowk”.Islamabad’s red zone houses the country’s parliament building, important government installations, as well as embassies and foreign institutions’ offices.“Khan has called on us to remain there till all our demands are met,” he said in a video message on Saturday. The PTI’s demands include the release of all its leaders, including Khan, as well as the resignation of the current government due to what it says was a rigged election this year.Khan has been in jail since August last year and, since being voted out of power by parliament in 2022, faces a number of disputed charges. He and his party deny all the charges.“These constant protests are destroying the economy and creating instability...we want the political leadership to sit together and resolve these matters,” Muhammad Asif, 35, a resident of Islamabad said in front of a closed market.

Pro-European Social Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu was leading in Sunday’s first round of Romania’s presidential election, according to two exit polls released soon after the end of voting.Ciolacu scored 25% of the vote while the centre-right former journalist turned small-town mayor Elena Lasconi was on 18%, according to the polls. Two far-right candidates scored 15% and 16% .Voting finished at 9pm.In the absence of an outright winner in the first round — scoring more than 50% — the top two candidates go through to a second-round run-off on December 8.Romanians voted on Sunday in the first round of a presidential election amid a surge in inflation and fears over the war in neighbouring Ukraine that could favour far-right leader George Simion.The vote kicks off two weeks of elections in the poor Nato member country, including a parliamentary vote and a December 8 presidential run-off.Social democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu is leading a field of 13 contenders in the race to take over from President Klaus Iohannis in the largely ceremonial post. Ciolacu has about 25% support in opinion polls, followed by AUR leader Simion on 15% to 19% .Ciolacu, whose Social Democratic Party (PSD) has shaped the country’s politics for more than three decades, promised stability and a “decent” standard of living as he voted on Sunday.Simion, 38, has seen his popularity surge by tapping into voter anger over record inflation — 10% last year and 5.5% predicted for 2024 — while promising more affordable housing.Looking for a new election breakthrough for European far-right parties, he warned of possible “fraud” and “foreign interference” when voting. But he added: “I am happy that we are giving Romanians hope and the prospect of a better future.”Simion is targeting people like Rodica, a 69-year-old who was among the first to vote in Bucharest’s chilly sunshine. The pensioner, who would not give a family name, was afraid of the Ukraine war and wanted “better living conditions and peace”.Andrea Irimie, a 29-year-old teacher, was also concerned about Ukraine and said she wanted “change”.The stakes are high for Romania, which has a 650-kilometre border with Ukraine and has become more important since Russia invaded its neighbour in 2022.The Black Sea nation now plays a “vital strategic role” for Nato — as it is a base for more than 5,000 soldiers — and the transit of Ukrainian grain, the New Strategy Center think tank said.Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential election has further “complicated” Romania’s choice, political analyst Cristian Pirvulescu told AFP.Known for his fiery speeches, Simion is a Trump fan who sometimes dons a red cap in appreciation of his idol.Simion opposes sending military aid to Ukraine, wants a “more patriotic Romania” and frequently lashes out against what he calls the “greedy corrupt bubble” running the European Union.Having campaigned hard to win over Romania’s large diaspora working abroad, he said the country has only had “minions and cowards as leaders”.Analyst Pirvulescu predicted that if Simion reaches the second round his AUR party would get a boost in the December parliamentary election.“Romanian democracy is in danger for the first time since the fall of communism in 1989,” he added.”I’m really afraid we’ll end up with Simion in the second round,” 36-year-old IT worker Oana Diaconu told AFP, expressing concern about the far-right leader’s unpredictable nature and attacks on the European Union.The campaign has been marked by controversy and personal attacks, with Simion facing accusations of meeting with Russian spies — a claim he has denied.Ciolacu has been criticised for his use of private jets.Polling in third place is former journalist Elena Lasconi, who became mayor of the small town of Campulung and head of a centre-right opposition party, who some tip as a potential surprise package.Lasconi said she wanted a future “where no one has to pack their suitcases and leave” the country and for “institutions that work”.

Premium electronics retailer Emax has opened its fourth store in Qatar at Doha Festival City’s ground floor. Emax offers a diverse product range that includes mobiles, IT products and accessories, premium televisions, home appliances, small appliances, health and fitness gadgets, gaming, gifting, personal care, car electronics and speakers. Landmark Group Qatar territory head Shumalan Naicker, said: “The New Emax store at Doha Festival City will definitely enhance the customer shopping experience in the electronics segment by offering premium brands under one roof with great customer service”. Also, in Emax now customers can earn and burn Shukran points and with Shukran Gift cards customers have choice for gifting too. In connection with the inauguration, the brand is offering sale on a wide range of premium electronics from 20% to 50% discount.

The yards for selling local agriculture products at Al Wakra, Al Khor and Al Thakhira, Al Sheehaniya, and Al Shamal resumed their operations for a new season. These yards will be open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7am to 3pm, with around 160 local farms expected to market their products. These yards across the country aim to showcase and promote local products, especially as specific standards and conditions have been set for the quality and safety of the vegetables and fruits on display.The yards, which provide a direct sales channel for both producers and consumers, are a form of support provided by the State to the farm owners in the mission to boost agricultural production in the country and increasing self-sufficiency rates. More than 50% of local production is marketed through the yards, with the rest sold at the central markets and other commercial complexes.In particular, Al Wakra yard attracted a large number of shoppers during the opening day. The market showcased a wide variety of agricultural products, with strong sales activity from the early hours. The demand was high on the local produce available in the market, including zucchini, tomatoes, cucumbers, various leafy vegetables, Sidr honey, and fresh date molasses.

Place Vendome Qatar has been awarded the ‘Premier Shopping Mall Experience’ at the recently held Qatar Tourism Awards.The award was the only recognition given to shopping malls.The latest honour adds to Place Vendome’s growing list of accolades, which includes: Unesco Prix Versailles - World's Most Beautiful Shopping Mall 2023, Qatar Museums’ Bronze Key, RLI MENA ‘Shopping Centre – New Build’ Award, 2024 Shop Qatar’s ‘Best Mall Award’, 2024 Shop Qatar’s ‘Highest Participation Award.’In a press statement, Shane Eldstrom, CEO of United Developers, Owners of Place Vendôme, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication, passion, and commitment of our entire team at Place Vendôme. We strive to offer an exceptional shopping experience that embodies the essence of luxury and world-class service, and this recognition underscores those efforts.”

Devji Aurum, a distinguished name in the world of fine jewellery, has announced the opening of its first boutique in Doha, Qatar. This marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey, which began over 70 years ago in Bahrain and later expanded in the Middle East, establishing Devji Aurum as a brand known for its exotic luxury and timeless heritage.In Qatar, this momentous achievement is the result of a close partnership with the prestigious Alfardan Group, a collaboration that began its course many years ago. The shared values and vision of both the Alfardan and Devji Aurum groups have culminated in the opening of Devji Aurum’s first shop-in-shop boutique, located on Level 1 of Doha Festival City’s Alfardan Boutique. This presence in Doha signifies the deep appreciation the brand has garnered from the local market, transforming that admiration into a permanent residence in the heart of the city.The new boutique offers a captivating display of Devji Aurum’s iconic collections. Among these is the Bridal Collection, featuring an array of timeless pieces that embody the beauty of love. This collection also boasts a selection of twin and engagement rings, each one a masterpiece, perfect for celebrating life’s most cherished moments.The boutique also houses the signature Ruhi Collection, a symbol of artistic elegance. From the revered Ruhi Gold to the vibrant Ruhi Pearls and the intricate Ruhi Iconic line, each creation resonates with a global audience. The grand opening also celebrates the much-anticipated launch of the Ruhi Amber Collection, a homage to history and a celebration of the Amber gems.In addition to these, the boutique will offer the Fashion Collection, which showcases a fusion of versatility and modern luxury. From everyday elegance to bold statement pieces, collections like the Oubharia and Fashion Iconic are emblematic of Devji Aurum’s creativity. For Qatar, the boutique will introduce new lines, including the exclusive release of Duvara Collection, inspired by architectural heritage and featuring exclusive gemstones, paying tribute to Qatari elegance with pieces available only in Doha.Speaking about this important milestone, Mahesh Devji, managing director of Devji Aurum, said: “We are deeply honoured to be a part of the Alfardan family, a relationship that spans decades of shared vision and mutual respect. Both Devji Aurum and the Alfardan Group are driven by a commitment to excellence, and together, we believe in delivering ‘maximum happiness to the maximum number of people.’ This partnership is a true testament to our aligned values, and we look forward to an exciting future together.”As Devji Aurum continues to grow its presence in Qatar, the brand also looks forward to participating in the prestigious Asjad Show, where it will unveil new creations that blend innovation and elegance, further showcasing its position as among the leaders in fine jewellery.The grand opening of the Doha boutique is a momentous occasion, one that heralds a new chapter in Devji Aurum’s illustrious history. As they continue their legacy of craftsmanship, luxury, and service, Devji Aurum is inviting jewellery enthusiasts to join them on this extraordinary journey, where each piece tells a story of passion, artistry, and timeless beauty.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds (MGD), the sixth largest jewellery retailer globally with over 360 showrooms across 13 countries, has ramped up their festive season offers ahead of Dhanteras and Diwali by providing free gold coins on gold jewellery purchase.The limited period offers, valid across all MGD showrooms across Qatar from October 25 to 29, will provide customers with the opportunity to get free gold coins on the purchase of gold jewellery worth QR3,000, a statement said.As part of the ongoing offer running across MGD showrooms, customers are eligible for free gold coins on the purchase of diamond and precious gem jewellery worth QR3,000 and above. As the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras draws near, the assured gold coin offer that has been extended to cover gold jewellery purchase as well.“The rise in gold price that the market has witnessed over the past week is further testament to the incredible position that gold has as a safe haven asset," said Shamlal Ahamed, managing director - international operations, MGD."As Dhanteras approaches, a time when many of our customers choose to invest in gold as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, we are excited to provide free gold coins with every gold jewellery purchase. This is our way of enhancing the value of their purchase and adding extra joy to their festive moments”, he added.On Dhanteras Day (October 29), all MGD showrooms in Qatar will be open from 8am, to be able to serve the high customer footfall that is expected. MGD's Pay 10% advance offer, introduced ahead of the festive season, has been a significant benefit for customers, with thousands taking advantage of the opportunity to secure the best rates on their jewellery purchases. The brand has also announced that this advance payment option will remain available until Dhanteras.

LuLu Group, a prominent retailer in the region, on Sunday celebrated a momentous achievement with the grand opening of its 24th outlet in Qatar, situated at the North Plaza Mall, Umm Al Amad.The new outlet was opened by prominent Qatari businessman Sheikh Faisal Khalifa Sultan al-Thani, a statement said. Indian ambassador Vipul, Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed M A al-Thani, LuLu Group International chairman and managing director Yusuff Ali MA, group director-global operations and CSO Dr Mohamed Althaf and other esteemed dignitaries graced the occasion.The new outlet offers a wide selection of fresh produce from local and around the world, an in-house bakery, and innovative shopping experiences, including the popular Planet Y, which features plant-based alternatives and a zero-waste refill station. It has plenty of parking, self-checkout options, and eco-friendly green checkout counters, LuLu guarantees a smooth and sustainable shopping experience.Yusuff Ali expressed his gratitude for the continued support of the Qatari leadership. “It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stand before you today to inaugurate our newest Lulu Hypermarket and Express Store in Umm Al Ahmad. This marks a significant milestone as it is our 24th store in Qatar and the 273rd in the Lulu Group’s ever-growing family of hypermarkets around the world,” he said.“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to HE Sheikh Faisal bin Khalifa al-Thani for gracing this occasion. Your presence today is a great honour and it reaffirms the strong and enduring bond between the Lulu Group and Qatar. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to the Indian ambassador Vipul and our many esteemed Qatari and international friends who have supported us along this journey.“Our success and growth in this beautiful nation would not have been possible without the visionary leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and the tremendous support of the Qatari government. We are deeply grateful for the business-friendly environment that has allowed us to serve the people of Qatar and contribute to the nation's vibrant economy,” he said.“At LuLu, our commitment has always been to provide a world-class shopping experience, offering a wide range of quality products and unmatched customer service. This new store, spanning 25,000sft, is a testament to our continued dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our customers in Qatar. As we look to the future, we are excited to share that we will be opening three more stores soon—one later this year and two more in the first quarter of next year. With each new opening, we aim to bring even more convenience, variety, and value to the communities we serve,” he noted.Ambassador Vipul said: "I am very pleased to be here today as the LuLu Group chairman Yusuff Ali opens yet another LuLu store in Qatar, marking the 24th branch in this wonderful country. As he rightly said, we are deeply grateful to His Highness the Amir and the Qatari government for their continued support to the Indian community as well as to the Lulu Group. It fills me with great pride as the Indian Ambassador to see an Indian entrepreneur achieving such remarkable success here in the Gulf, particularly in Qatar.”“Looking ahead, I am confident that the bond between India and Qatar will continue to grow even stronger in the months and years to come," he added.The new outlet of LuLu prioritises sustainability, offering amenities like wheelchair accessibility, seating areas, gift wrapping services, and a Reverse Vending Machine for recycling plastic bottles. Smart technology is embedded throughout the store, providing a smoother shopping experience with self-checkouts and an efficient checkout system.LuLu at Umm Al Amad offers key features like smart technology for a seamless shopping experience, including self-checkouts, a Zero Waste refill station for reusable containers with dry goods, and a dedicated ‘Planet-Y’ section for vegan and vegetarian options.Additional features include dedicated sections for Vegan, Organic, Keto-friendly, Superfoods, Gluten-free, Protein, Dairy-free, Under 100 Calories, and No Added Sugar products. There’s also a Juice Station serving a range of freshly made juices, a Superfood Pantry offering affordable superfood items, and an extensive Fresh Market produce section.The LuLu at Umm Al Amad stands as a testament to the group’s dedication to providing a diverse and sustainable retail experience, offering a wide array of products and services tailored to the evolving needs of its valued customers, the statement added.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds (MGD), the sixth largest jewellery retailer globally with over 360 showrooms across 13 countries, has announced their festive season offers.MGD brand ambassador and Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor unveiled the offers through which customers can get assured gold coins with their gold and diamond jewellery purchases.MGD has also unveiled their Festive Edition collection, a stunning array of exclusive jewellery designs in gold, diamond and precious gems, a statement said. The limited period offer can be availed across all MGD showrooms until November 2.For every diamond or precious gem jewellery purchase worth QR5,000 , customers will get a free 1gm gold coin and for diamond and precious gem jewellery purchase worth QR3,000 they will be eligible for a half gm gold coin.The Festive Edition jewellery features special designs across a wide range of sub-brands such as Mine, Era, Precia, Viraaz, Ethnix and Divine, comprising of 22k gold, diamonds and precious gem jewellery. Elegant designs crafted in contemporary fashion have also been introduced in the 18K gold category.As part of the offer, customers have the opportunity to exchange their old 916 gold jewellery for the latest designs without any loss. MGD will also be setting up Special Buy counters at their showrooms, 'offering incredible discounts' on selected jewellery designs.“Our customers eagerly anticipate the special offers we introduce each festive season, and this year is no exception," said Shamlal Ahamed, managing director – international operations at MGD."In line with our campaign tagline – Malabar With You in All Celebrations, our exclusive offers and stunning range of designs are a testament to Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ unwavering commitment to being a part of our customers' cherished moments. Having our brand ambassador Anil Kapoor launch the offers was an added joy for us,” he stated.In light of the gold rate fluctuations, customers can take advantage of the Gold Rate Protection offer provided by MGD, wherein customers can block the prevailing gold rates by paying a 10% as advance, valid until October 29. If the gold rate goes up during this period, customers can purchase at the blocked rate and if the rate happens to go down, customers can draw mileage from the lower rate.The Gold Rate Protection offer can be availed by visiting any of Malabar Gold & Diamonds showrooms, or online through their mobile app, the statement added.

Qatar's first supermarket, Family Food Centre, proudly marks its 46th anniversary by launching an exclusive Shop & Win campaign, running until the end of 2024. This exciting promotion began on September 26, 2024, and is open to all customers visiting any of the five outlets across Al Kheesa, Al Rayyan, Al Nasr, Old Airport Road, and Family Mart at Doha Souq Mall on Al Nasr Street [next to Turkey Central]. For every QR 50 spent at Family Food Centre, shoppers will receive an e-raffle coupon. Customers can register their receipts online at https://lucky-draw.family.qa/ or at the receipt registration counters available at each outlet. In total, 180 lucky winners will share 12 million Nojoom points across multiple prize draws. The draws will take place on 31st October 2024, 1st December 2024 and 26th December 2024. All draws will be held at 10 AM at the Al Nasr, Airport, and Al Kheesa branches under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI). In addition to the lucky draw, the anniversary celebration will feature product promotions over three months, highlighting Fresh Produce, Meats, Fish, and Department Store items, with a special focus on local Qatari products. Family Food Centre offers the widest selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, groceries, and imports from over 35 countries. For added convenience, customers can shop online and enjoy home delivery via www.family.qa or the Family App. As a special offer, new customers can get free delivery on their first order through the app or website. Join in the celebration at Family Food Centre and don’t miss your chance to win 12 million Nojoom points. Visit any outlet today to participate!

Workers removed the Olympics logo from the Eiffel Tower in the early hours of on Friday, returning the beloved monument to its familiar form – but perhaps only temporarily.Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has promised to build new Olympic rings and return them to the landmark as a tribute to the hugely successful Olympic Games held in the capital during July and August.The proposal has polarised opinion in the French capital and has been criticised by descendants of the tower’s designer Gustave Eiffel, as well as conservation groups.After initially suggesting the new rings should be permanent, Hidalgo has proposed they remain on the city’s world-renowned symbol until the next Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.Workers operating multiple large cranes removed the 30-tonne steel rings from between the first and second floors of the tower during the early hours on Friday.They were first installed just under four months ago, on June 7, and will now be melted down and recycled.The new rings, which the International Olympic Committee is expected to pay for, would be lighter versions of the originals and less prominent, according to a deputy Paris mayor, Pierre Rabadan.“In my opinion, it would be better to put them somewhere else because it’s a Parisian monument and it’s not right that it becomes an advertising medium for an event that is now over,” Hugo Staub, a French tourist at the tower on Friday told AFP.Culture Minister Rachida Dati, a long-time critic and opponent of Hidalgo, has also cast doubt over the idea, saying that the mayor’s proposal would need to respect procedures protecting historic buildings.However, others felt regret at losing a visual reminder of an enchanted period in Paris and expressed support for the idea of replacements.“They were a bit large so it’s better to put small ones that can remain for a few years,” said Gabriel, a French volunteer at the Games, who was at the foot of the iconic tower on Friday.“It would be symbolic and a great souvenir,” he added.After months of gloom and self-doubt in the run-up to the start of the Olympics on July 26, Paris and the country at large threw themselves into the spirit of the Games, which have been hailed as some of the best of the modern era.Hidalgo, in power since 2014, also wants to retain other symbols of the event such as the innovative cauldron placed in front of the Louvre museum as well as statues of illustrious women placed in the river Seine during the opening ceremony.Several conservation groups in Paris have urged the Socialist city leader to prioritise maintenance of the Eiffel Tower, which is owned and operated by the city, rather than the Olympic rings.The tower’s workers launched a five-day strike in February to protest against its state of disrepair and to request extra spending on painting and anti-rust protection.

Katara – the Cultural Village is hosting an International Shopping Exhibition, offering a wide array of goods from around the world. The event, which opened Friday, runs until October 13, featuring home décor, fashion, or artisanal crafts. Admission is free.

Al Asmakh Mall and Barwa Plaza Mall have launched their Back-to-School campaign for customers to shop and win diamond vouchers up to QR50,000, a statement said. The diamond partner is Malabar Gold & Diamonds. Customers shopping for QR300 and above at Centrepoint, Max and Shoexpress in Al Asmakh Mall and Barwa Plaza Mall will automatically qualify for the e-raffle draw. The campaign showcases more than 50 brands and 100,000 products in both the malls. A total of 25 winners will be selected through a randomiser by a ministry official at Al Asmakh Mall, with each winning a QR2,000 worth of diamond voucher. The campaign concludes on September 7.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds has just launched their Golden Summer offers which will run until August 3 across its showrooms in Qatar to give customers the chance to get free gold coins on their diamond & precious gem jewellery purchases.As part of the Golden Summer offers, customers shopping for diamond or precious gem jewellery worth QR5,000 will get free 1gm gold coin and customers purchasing diamonds or precious gem jewellery worth QR3,000 will get 1/2gm gold coin.Additionally, as part of the offers, customers can also exchange their old 22K gold jewellery purchased anywhere, for the latest designs from Malabar Gold & Diamonds without any loss.“We have introduced the Golden Summer offers to enhance the jewellery purchase experience of our customers, who are entering the last leg of their summer shopping. With diamond jewellery increasingly becoming the most preferred gifting article amongst individuals and families, the exquisite collection of diamond jewellery that Malabar Gold & Diamonds offers makes it the perfect destination for jewellery shopping,” commented Shamlal Ahamed, managing director, international operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

The winners of Safari Hypermarket's second draw for MG cars were selected in the presence of Ministry of Commerce officials and Safari management representatives on July 24 at 10am at Safari Hypermarket, Salwa Road.The first prize winner, Kishna Ram (coupon No SND200062428) will get a Morris Garages RX 8 - 2024 model car.Second prize winners are Ziad A M (coupon No SND201137808), Agan Bahadur Ghatane (coupon No SND200409781) and Nabin Shah (coupon No. SND200045066), each will get Morris Garages MG5 - 2024 model cars.The third draw of this shop-and-drive-promotion will be held on September 8 at Safari Hypermarket, Al Khor branch. Anyone can participate in the promotion by entering the draw through the e-raffle coupon, which is available on purchase of items for just QR 50 from any of the Safari outlets.

The Al Hamba Festival for Pakistani mangoes will open tomorrow at Souq Waqif in Doha. Being held until July 6, the festival is set to delight mango enthusiasts and food lovers alike with a vibrant celebration of Pakistani mango season, a statement from the embassy said.Organised by the embassy of Pakistan in Doha, in collaboration with the Celebrations Organising Committee of the Private Engineering Office (PEO), the festival will showcase the rich and diverse flavours of Pakistani mangoes. Over 43 companies will participate, presenting around 100 outlets.Visitors to the Al Hamba Festival will have the opportunity to savour a variety of the finest Pakistani mangoes, including popular varieties such as Sidhri, Chaunsa, Safeed Chaunsa, Anwar Ratool, and Duseri.The festival will also feature seasonal fruits like falsa, jamun, and peaches. Pakistani cuisine will be a highlight of the festival, with an array of traditional dishes and modern interpretations available for tasting. Local restaurants and cafés will participate, offering a diverse menu that celebrates the culinary heritage of Pakistan.The festival will host a variety of exhibitors, including importers, retailers, and exporters. Companies from Pakistan will showcase processed foods and dry mangoes, highlighting the diverse range of mango-based products available.Notable participants include Zuhair Impex, Akin Foods, Kashan Trader's, Friday Fresh Pvt Ltd, Naurus Pvt Ltd, Pak Khyber Traders, Aaj Enterprises, Al Hamad Agro Chemicals, and Swat International Trading Company.Major retail stores participating include Al Baladi Hypermarket, Marza Hypermarket, Sunder Mart, and Al Hemaliya Trading.A unique display from Desert Green Qatar, a nursery showcasing the best in agricultural practices and innovations, will be featured. The event will also highlight Pakistani handicrafts courtesy of Swat International Trading Company."The Al Hamba Festival promises to be a memorable event for families and food enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of flavours and cultural experiences while celebrating the rich agricultural heritage and culinary traditions of Pakistan."The event aims to promote cultural exchange and strengthen ties between the two nations through the universal language of food," the statement added.

LuLu Hypermarket Qatar has announced the return of its “10/15/20/30 Promotion”, which will start today and run until July 7.The promo offers customers “an exclusive opportunity to avail themselves of incredible discounts” on a selection of over 2,000 products from various categories, including grocery, fresh food, fruits, vegetables, household items, textiles, footwear, cosmetics, sports items, home decor, stationery, toys, and selected electronics.A spokesperson from LuLu management said: “The 10/15/20/30 Promotion has consistently been a tremendous success, and each year, we strive to introduce additional product lines tailored to enhance our customers’ regular use, thereby elevating the overall shopping experience.”The Hot Food and Bakery sections have value combo offers spanning Arabic, Western, Chinese, South Indian, and North Indian cuisines, complementing the main promotion with an array of bakery delights."This is the best time for home-going customers to purchase travel essentials, gifts, chocolates, nuts, and garments at affordable prices," it was explained.The Shop & Win Mega Lucky Draw meanwhile offers customers the chance to win a QR1mn cash prize, LuLu vouchers, and 1mn Happiness loyalty points, until August 3.To participate, simply spend QR50 or more at any LuLu Hypermarket store and receive an e-raffle coupon.Customers can register their e-raffle coupons at the customer service counter in-store or online at LuLuhypermarket.com for added convenience.The grand draw will take place on August 5 at the LuLu Hypermarket located on D-Ring Road.

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas has launched a limited time summer offer, featuring a 20% discount on both rooms and villas, which also includes complimentary breakfast, dinner, and access to the waterpark. The booking period is from today to June 14 and the stay period from tomorrow to September 8, a statement said.

Safari Hypermarket has launched a mango festival and 19th anniversary promotions across all categories, it was announced yesterday.The Safari Mango Festival features more than 80 varieties of mangoes imported from countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Colombia, Peru, Thailand, Philippines, and Brazil.The highlights include Indian mangoes such as Alphonsa, Malgoa, Kokumalli, Rumani, Thottapuri, Moovandan, Badami, Kalapadi, Chakarakutty, Kesari, Cinduram, Neelam, Panchavarnam, and from Saudi Arabia Mango Hindi, Mango Sibda, Mango Sudani, and Mango Tumi, Mango Kenat, Mango Jilant.The Safari Bakery and Hot Food section have also prepared various mango dishes for the mango fest, including mango cake, mango rasmalai, mango stew, fresh mango pickle, mango fish curry, mango shrimp curry, and mango chicken kebab.In the grocery section, mango biscuits, mango pulp, other products in mango flavour, mango pickles, mango dry fruit, mango fresh juice and mango ice cream have been prepared.Safari's 19th anniversary promotions are available across all categories, including Bakery & Hot Food, Grocery, Frozen, Cosmetics, Household, Garments, Toys, and Electronics. Many products are available at Safari outlets at significant discounts, including prices that are lower than usual.Safari has also introduced a "buy one, get one" promotion in the garments and ready-made category. Customers can buy one Wanter Brand men's shirt and get another absolutely free. This promotion, available at all Safari outlets until May 18, is launched in conjunction with the Safari anniversary promotion.Through Safari's newest mega promotion, the Safari Shop and Drive promotion, on offer are 25 MG cars, including Morris Garages' six RX8-2024 model SUVs and 19 MG5-2024 model cars. Every purchase of QR50 entitles customers to one raffle coupon.

LuLu Hypermarket has unveiled its highly anticipated 'Mango Mania' festival, featuring an array of over 75 varieties sourced from 11 countries across the globe.The festival, concluding tomorrow (Wednesday) has popular mangoes from India, Yemen, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, Colombia, Brazil and Mexico, a statement said yesterday.The favourites such as Alphonso, Badami, Mango Yemen, Tottapuri, Mango Colombia, Rajapuri, Dilpasanth, Philippines Mango, Neelam, and many more are available.A LuLu spokesperson, said: "We have spared no effort in procuring the finest-quality mangoes from 11 countries exclusively for our valued patrons. At LuLu Hypermarkets, our commitment has always been to our shoppers, and we endeavour to provide them with nothing but the best."LuLu's culinary experts have meticulously crafted a menu for this promotion, featuring a wide spectrum of dishes across the hot food, salad, bakery and beverage sections. From Mango Fish Curry and Mango Chicken Salad to Mango Chia Pudding and Mango Lassi, there's something to delight every mango aficionado.The promotion also offers special mango delicacies, pickled mangoes, as well as mango preserves, smoothies, pulps, juices, jellies and jams. LuLu Hypermarkets also has the following ongoing offers: Shop to win 1 million Cash Prize/Gift Voucher & 1 million Happiness Loyalty Points, valid until August 3 (spend QR 50 or more at any LuLu Hypermarket store and receive an e-raffle coupon); Spend and Save, valid until May 22 (spend QR100 or more on supermarket products and instantly receive a QR25 LuLu voucher), the statement added.