Qatar's diversification drive gathers pace as non-hydrocarbon sectors near two-thirds of GDP

Oxford Business Group examines progress towards the country's Vision 2030 goals and the priorities of NDS-3 in The Report: Qatar 2026 Doha, July 2026: Qatar's progress in diversifying its economy under Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (NDS-3) forms the core of The Report: Qatar 2026, the latest research publication by global advisory and research firm Oxford Business Group (OBG). The report charts the country's shift away from hydrocarbon dependence, with non-hydrocarbon sectors now accounting for 65.5% of GDP, led by growth in construction, trade, tourism, logistics, ICT and financial services. Anchored by strong LNG revenues and one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds, Qatar maintains macroeconomic stability and fiscal strength despite ongoing regional geopolitical ......read full article

ONE Championship and Visit Qatar Renew Landmark Three-Year Partnership

Multiple Global Martial Arts Spectacles to Return to Qatar from March 2027 July 27, 2026 - Doha, Qatar: ONE Championship™ (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, and Visit Qatar have announced the renewal of their landmark three-year partnership, bringing a series of ONE's globally celebrated martial arts events back to Qatar starting March 2027. Building on the success of ONE 166 in 2024 and ONE 171 in 2025, the partnership reflects the continued impact of hosting ONE events in Qatar. Over the next three years, Visit Qatar and ONE will host multiple flagship events in Qatar featuring World Championship bouts and showcasing the brightest Middle Eastern talent alongside international superstars competing across MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and submission grappling. The events are expected to attract ......read full article

Northwestern University in Qatar's Media Majlis Museum, in partnership with ACMI, announces 'All That Is Unseen' by Marshmallow Laser Feast — the acclaimed artist collective's firs

Doha, Qatar—July 23, 2026—The Media Majlis Museum at Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q), in partnership with ACMI, Australia's national museum of screen culture, announces their fall 2026 exhibition titled All That Is Unseen, created by internationally acclaimed London-based artist collective Marshmallow Laser Feast (MLF).  MLF is an experiential artist collective rooted in telling stories that deepen our relationship with the living world. Working at the intersection of science, art and technology, they create sensory experiences that reveal the hidden systems connecting humans with the living worlds. Employing a wealth of creative disciplines, from large-scale installation and kinetic sculpture to film and live performance, MLF's practice is united by a single purpose—to invite audiences into a ......read full article

QIC's Digital Ecosystem Named Initiative of the Year in Qatar at the Insurance Asia Awards

The MENA region's first ecosystem offering both insurance and everyday lifestyle services Doha, Qatar – 23 July 2026: Qatar Insurance (QIC), the leading insurer in Qatar and the MENA region, has been awarded the “Digital Insurance Initiative of the Year in Qatar” title at the Insurance Asia Awards 2026. This accolade recognizes QIC’s success in expanding its digital ecosystem, which stands as the MENA region's first ecosystem to offer both insurance products and everyday lifestyle services through a single interface. This year, QIC significantly scaled its ecosystem to cover a wider range of daily needs, incorporating an integrated car marketplace, vehicle care solutions, hotel and event bookings, loyalty rewards and more. Alongside this growth, QIC broadened its network of partners and service ......read full article

Winner of Snoonu's “Be the Next Millionaire” Donates Full Prize to Charity When Winning Becomes a Message of Giving

In a moment many dream of, one phone call changed everything. What began as the announcement of a QAR 1 million prize quickly became something far more meaningful; a story defined not by winning, but by giving. As part of the eighth draw of Snoonu’s “Be the Next Millionaire” campaign, a Qatari woman was announced as the winner of the grand prize. While the joy of the moment was undeniable, what followed reflected a deeper sense of purpose. The winner, identified as W.A., shared that her initial reaction went beyond happiness. She felt a profound sense that this opportunity was a blessing entrusted to her; one that could be used to fulfill a long-held aspiration to give back and make a difference. Without hesitation, she made the remarkable decision to donate the full amount to charitable causes. Her ......read full article

Ahlibank Publishes First Standalone ESG Report as it Strengthens Climate-Risk and Sustainability Capabilities

Report highlights the Bank’s progress in measuring financed emissions across more than 92% of its portfolio, conducting forward-looking climate-risk assessments, and establishing the foundations for future sustainability reporting and compliance. Doha, Qatar – xx June, 2026: Ahlibank Q.P.S.C. has announced the publication of its first standalone Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, marking an important milestone in the Bank’s sustainability journey. Marking a significant milestone in Ahlibank’s sustainability journey, the report reflects the Bank’s transition from ESG ambition to structured implementation and confirms that the Bank’s portfolio demonstrates strong climate resilience, supported by prudent diversification and limited concentration in sectors most exposed to ......read full article

Dukhan Bank Wins “Best Business Card Offering in MENA 2026” at MEED MENA Banking Excellence Awards

Recognition reinforces the Bank’s commitment to delivering innovative, Sharia-compliant card solutions for businesses Doha, Qatar – July 2026: Dukhan Bank has been named winner of the “Best Business Card Offering in MENA 2026” award by MEED as part of the MENA Banking Excellence Awards 2026 for Retail, Digital & SME. The recognition highlights Dukhan Bank’s continued progress in delivering customer-focused, Sharia-compliant banking solutions that support the evolving needs of businesses across Qatar and the wider region. It also reflects the Bank’s commitment to enhancing its suite of card products through convenience, security, digital integration, and value-added services tailored to corporate and SME customers. Dukhan Bank’s business card offering is designed to support greater ......read full article

Msheireb Properties hosts MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026 in Partnership with the Australian Embassy in Qatar

Doha, Qatar - 18 June 2026: Msheireb Museums proudly hosted the MIKTA Climate Dialogue 2026, in partnership with the Australian Embassy in Qatar, bringing together representatives from government, industry, academia and civil society to explore opportunities for advancing international climate cooperation ahead of COP31. Held at Bin Jelmood House on 17 June, the event convened under the theme "Accelerating Climate Action Through International Partnerships" and highlighted the contributions of MIKTA member countries — Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Türkiye and Australia — to global climate action. Established in 2013, MIKTA is a cross-regional partnership of middle powers committed to supporting the rules-based international order and addressing shared global challenges through practical cooperation ......read full article

Boeing, INJAZ Qatar and Pure Minds Academy Inspire Future Space Talent Through CubeSat Explorer Challenge in Doha

DOHA, Qatar, June 17, 2026 — More than 180 Grade 8 students at Qatar Academy Doha, member of Qatar Foundation, took part in the CubeSat Explorer Challenge — a hands-on learning experience organized by Boeing [NYSE: BA], INJAZ Qatar and Pure Minds Academy to spark early interest in space, satellite technology and other STEM careers. "This program didn't just introduce students to space – it brought space to them. It's no longer a distant concept, but an accessible, exciting career path they can pursue and build here in Qatar", said Wael Zaoud, Boeing managing director for the Middle East and North Africa. "Qatar is steadily expanding its space capabilities and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers and researchers. As a company that helped put the first human on the Moon, ......read full article

USQBC Doha and IFC Convene High-Level Dialogue on Accelerating Qatar's Startup Ecosystem'

DOHA, Qatar — 17 June 2026 — US-Qatar Business Council – Doha (USQBC Doha) and the World Bank Group's private sector arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), held a high-level event, "Qatar as a Regional Innovation Hub: Accelerating Qatar's Startup Ecosystem," to explore evidence-based opportunities to accelerate Qatar's startup, innovation, and investment ecosystem, in alignment with Qatar's National Vision 2030 and its Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). With QNB Group, a leading financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, serving as Lead Sponsor, the event marked the launch of "Qatar Startup Ecosystem Study: A Roadmap for Qatar's Ecosystem Acceleration," a white paper co-developed by USQBC Doha and IFC. The study's key findings and strategic ......read full article

QIC Expands Its Digital Ecosystem with New Travel Solutions

Travelers to and from Qatar can now manage more of their travel needs via QIC App Loyalty Coins can also be redeemed across an expanded range of travel-related benefits Doha, Qatar – 15 June 2026: Qatar Insurance (QIC), the leading insurer in Qatar and the MENA region, has announced the launch of new travel-related features on its QIC App, further enhancing the digital experience for travelers to and from Qatar with extra convenience and ease. As part of this update, QIC customers can now convert their loyalty Coins into Avios, the loyalty rewards currency of Qatar Airways Privilege Club, through QIC App. The converted points can be redeemed across a wide range of travel services, including flight bookings, travel class upgrades, and purchases at Qatar Duty Free, with access to a global network spanning more than 150 ......read full article

QatarDebate Center's "Qatar Connects" Series Explores Local Production as a Priority for Qatar's Future

The discussion addressed challenges, opportunities, and the role of local production in strengthening Qatar's economic resilience Doha, Qatar – 10 June 2026: QatarDebate Center, founded by Qatar Foundation, concluded a high-level panel discussion on local production as an urgent priority shaped by rapid global shifts, including supply chain disruptions and international crises. The panel was held as part of the "Qatar Connects" series on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, under the theme: "Beyond Imports: Will Local Production Lead Qatar's Future?" Moderated by Mohammed Al Hamadi, a presenter and media figure, the session brought together entrepreneurs, local producers, and stakeholders from Qatar's production ecosystem. Discussions focused on exploring challenges and identifying opportunities to build a ......read full article

Stars of Science Returns for Season 18: The Search for the Arab World's Next Great Innovators Begins

The Arab world’s flagship innovation platform returns with a renewed format and a new call for Arab innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators. Casting now open and will close on 26 June 2026 Calling on Arab innovators aged 18–35 years from across the Arab World and the global Arab diaspora to apply Winner to receive a life-changing opportunity with a fully supported venture-building experience in Qatar Doha | Dubai | Amman | Cairo | Rabat | Riyadh, 9 June 2026: Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), has opened applications for Season 18 of Stars of Science – QF’s flagship innovation platform dedicated to supporting the next generation of Arab innovators and entrepreneurs. Applications are now officially open and aspiring entrepreneurs, engineers, scientists, ......read full article

Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine host Third Science Café Session on Obesity, Diabetes & Metabolic Diseases

Doha, Qatar – 09 June 2026: Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine, hosted the third Science Café Session under the theme of "The Rising Tide: Obesity, Diabetes & Metabolic Diseases", delivering an engaging discussion on the prevention, innovation, and importance of empowering healthier futures for communities. The event took place at Bin Jelmood House on 8 June 2026 and was attended by Dr. Ammira Akil, Principal Investigator – Associate Level at Sidra Medicine; Dr. Tariq Chukir, Endocrinology Consultant at Qatar Metabolic Institute and Attending Physician – Endocrinology at Sidra Medicine; Dr. Hoda  Yaseen Azzam, Attending Physician – Endocrinology at Sidra Medicine; Dr. Altayeb Abdalaziz, Consultant  Physician and Endocrinologist at The view Hospital; Ms. Reem bint Abdulrahman ......read full article

Carnegie Mellon Qatar celebrates research and discovery at flagship undergraduate symposium

DOHA, QATAR – June 7, 2026 – Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), a Qatar Foundation partner university, hosted its flagship undergraduate research symposium, Meeting of the Minds 2026. This year's event brought together 65 research projects across two presentation streams—in-person and online—to showcase academic ingenuity during a challenging semester. The event included an online stream for students who, because of the regional conflict, completed the final weeks of the semester remotely. In the in-person presentation stream, Khalid Al-Abdulla, a Biological Sciences graduate from the Class of 2026, earned first place in the Extensive Research category for his honors thesis, "Two isoforms, two functions? Investigating hnRNPA2B1 roles in triple-negative breast cancer." Mentored by ......read full article

Fnac Qatar Reinforces Its Commitment to Culture and Francophonie at the 35th Doha International Book Fair

In partnership with the Embassy of France in Qatar and the French Institute of Qatar Doha, Qatar – Jun 06, 2026: Fnac Qatar once again participated in the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), held from 14 to 23 May 2026 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to culture, literacy, education, and intellectual exchange in Qatar. Organized in partnership with the Embassy of France in Qatar and the French Institute of Qatar (IFQ), the participation reflects the strength of Fnac Qatar's longstanding relationship with both entities and their collective dedication to promoting the French language and culture within the local community. Recognized as one of the region's leading cultural gatherings, the Doha International Book Fair once again attracted visitors, readers and ......read full article

BNL Italy Major Premier Padel. Another masterpiece from Dal Pozzo and Rodriguez: semi-finals at the Foro Italico

Miracles happen at the Foro Italico, and Giulia Dal Pozzo seems to be producing them. The left-hander who is learning how to become a champion is clearly no longer satisfied with simply breaking Italian records. Less than 24 hours after becoming the first Italian woman ever to reach the quarter-finals of a Major, the player from Romagna and her Spanish partner Nuria Rodriguez delivered another masterpiece, earning a place in the semi-finals of the BNL Italy Major after defeating, and ultimately overwhelming, Claudia Fernandez and Sofia Araujo, ranked No. 6 and No. 8 respectively in the FIP world rankings. It was a fairytale result, achieved on Pietrangeli Court thanks to a comeback that seemed unthinkable, almost inexplicable, adding another unforgettable chapter to a week that already feels historic.   The final score was 3-6 ......read full article

KIB facilitates “Eidiya” access across branches and ITMs ahead of Eid Al-Adha

Kuwait, 19 May 2026: Ahead of Eid Al-Adha, Kuwait International Bank (KIB) announced the availability of its annual Eidiya service across its network of branches and Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) throughout Kuwait. Through this service, KIB aims to provide customers with convenient access to Eidiya in various denominations, supporting their Eid preparations while reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to delivering accessible and customer-focused banking solutions. Commenting on the initiative, Nawaf Al-Khrayef, Deputy General Manager of Retail Banking at KIB, said: “We extend our warmest wishes to the leadership and people of Kuwait as we approach Eid Al-Adha. At KIB, we continuously work to offer practical banking solutions that simplify everyday transactions and align with their lifestyles. In line with KIB’s main ......read full article

Lagoona Mall Watches & Jewellery Week Returns for Its Landmark 5th Edition

Bringing together leading global and regional maisons and brands through exceptional luxury experiences Doha, Qatar – May 14, 2026: Lagoona Mall Watches & Jewellery Week returns for its highly anticipated fifth edition from May 13 to 17, reaffirming its position as one of Qatar's leading luxury retail events and a staple on the country's luxury calendar, attracting discerning local watch and jewellery enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world. Taking place on Level 1 of Lagoona Mall, opposite Fifty One East, this year's edition brings together an exceptional showcase of craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, unveiling the latest collections and novelties from some of the world's most renowned watchmakers, jewellers, and lifestyle brands. The event continues to evolve into a refined ......read full article

Msheireb Museums Hosts Qatar University Annual Architecture Exhibition

The exhibition showcased projects by more than 40 students from the university's Department of Architecture and Urban Planning Msheireb Downtown Doha served as a living reference and tangible case study of what architecture rooted in research and national heritage can achieve Ibrahim Al Jaidah, Chief Architect and Group CEO of the Arab Engineering Bureau, honoured a selection of the most promising projects Doha, Qatar – 14 May 2026: Msheireb Museums hosted "Mimar: From Education to Impact," the annual exhibition organised by the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at Qatar University, showcasing thesis projects and achievements by more than 40 undergraduate and graduating architecture students. The choice of Msheireb Downtown Doha as the exhibition's setting carried particular ......read full article

KIB accompanies Kuwaiti sports delegation at 4th GCC Games Opening Ceremony in Qatar

Kuwait, 13 May 2026: Kuwait International Bank (KIB) participated in the opening ceremony of the 4th GCC Games in Doha, Qatar, as the official sponsor of Team Kuwait’s participation in this major event, hosted in Qatar from May 11 to 22. This sponsorship underscores KIB’s continued support for Kuwaiti athletes and its commitment to strengthening their presence at regional sporting events. The opening ceremony was attended by the President of the Kuwait Olympic Committee (KOC), Sheikh Fahad Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, alongside members of the Kuwaiti delegation and Marwah Marafie, Manager of Corporate Communications Unit, and Abdulaziz Al Thawab, Assistant Manager of Corporate Communications Unit, from KIB. The ceremony also featured the raising of the Kuwaiti flag, carried by Kuwaiti shooter Khaled Al-Mudhaf ......read full article

QIC Retains Position in Top 10 Strongest Qatari Brands Ranking by Brand Finance

QIC's brand rating has been upgraded to AA- The company remains the only insurer featured in the prestigious ranking Doha, Qatar – 12th May 2026: Qatar Insurance (QIC), the leading insurer in Qatar and the MENA region, has retained its position among Qatar’s strongest brands, once again securing a place in Brand Finance’s 2026 ranking of the Top 10 Most Valuable and Strongest Qatari Brands. QIC also remains the only insurer included in this prestigious ranking, further reinforcing its leadership position within the industry. Brand Finance has upgraded QIC’s brand rating to AA- up from A- in the previous year’s report, reflecting the company’s sustained growth and strong performance over the past 12 months. The global brand valuation consultancy attributed this improvement to QIC’s ......read full article

Transporting People Without Hajj Permits Carries up to SAR50,000 Fine, Six Months in Prison

Riyadh, May 06, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Interior affirmed that citizens and residents caught transporting people without a Hajj permit, in violation of Hajj regulations and instructions, will face a fine of up to SAR50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and a request for court-ordered confiscation of the vehicle. The ministry added that expatriate violators will be deported after serving their penalties and banned from reentering the Kingdom for the legally specified periods. The ministry stressed that a valid Hajj permit is required to perform Hajj. It urged everyone to comply with regulations governing the 1447 AH Hajj season and cooperate with the competent authorities to help ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, warning that violations are punishable by law. It also called on the public to report violators ......read full article

Hayya Wins Silver Stevie Award for Public Sector Innovation in MENA

Qatar Tourism has announced that the Hayya platform has been awarded the Silver Stevie Award in the Innovation in Public Administration category at the 2026 Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Award, recognising its role in transforming travel, tourism and event management through advanced digital solutions. Hayya was selected for its continued evolution into a comprehensive digital platform for e-visa processing, event access and accreditation, supported by seamless integration with government systems. This ecosystem is further strengthened by a portfolio of complementary solutions, including the Hayya Mobile App, Hayya Portal (HMP), the Hayya Accreditation and Credentialing System (HACS), Hayya Move, the Hayya Reporting System (HRS), and the Group Visas and Accreditations Service (GVA), collectively enhancing ......read full article

Doha Design District Issues Final Call for Public Art Open Call Submissions Ahead of 14 May Deadline

Doha, Qatar, May 5, 2026: Doha Design District (DDD) has issued a final call for submissions to its Public Art Open Call, with the deadline fast approaching on 14 May 2026. Artists, designers, and creatives are encouraged to submit their proposals before the closing date via the official website. The initiative reflects Doha Design District’s ongoing commitment to shaping a dynamic and engaging urban environment through creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange. By integrating public art into the fabric of the district, DDD continues to reinforce its vision of becoming a leading global platform for design while celebrating Qatari identity and fostering meaningful community interaction. Through such initiatives, the District aims to support creative talent, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and contribute to the ......read full article

Saudi Ministry Boosts International Cooperation for Hajj Compliance

RIYADH, May 3, 2026 — The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is continuing its intensive coordination with international Hajj affairs offices to promote awareness of official procedures. The goal is to ensure that essential guidance and instructional messages reach pilgrims in their home countries well before they arrive in the Kingdom.  These international efforts aim to establish the Hajj permit as the only safe and legitimate pathway for the pilgrimage. By adhering to these regulations, pilgrims ensure their journey is organized from its very first stages. The permit guarantees access to comprehensive field and logistical services and protects the pilgrim's rights from fraud or manipulation. The Ministry reiterated that the slogan "No Hajj Without a Permit" is designed to achieve the highest levels of ......read full article

Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine Champion Neurodiversity in Second Science Café Session

Doha, Qatar – 28 April 2026: Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine hosted the second session of the 2026 Science Café series on Monday, which convened leading experts who discussed neurodevelopmental conditions from the perspective of science, technology, ability and achievement under the theme "Different Abilities, Shared Futures: Disability and Success." Focusing on inclusive environments for children and adolescents, the session underscored the value of recognising individual capabilities and creating pathways for long-term achievement including the importance of family engagement, peer networks, and societal awareness.  The panel featured a specialised list of speakers from Sidra Medicine, in addition to clinical experts, educational researchers, and psychological specialists. They are: Dr. Hilal A. ......read full article

Qatar's Advanced Business Computing (ABC) Named 2026 Google Cloud Partner of the Year for Middle East & North Africa

 Recognized for advancing national digital capabilities through the Google Cloud ecosystem. DOHA, QATAR (April 23, 2026) — Advanced Business Computing (ABC), Qatar’s premier technology integrator and a leading Google Cloud partner, announced that it has received the 2026 Google Cloud Partner of the Year award for the Middle East & North Africa region, recognizing its contribution to supporting the country’s digital transformation agenda and innovation ecosystem. This recognition highlights ABC’s exceptional achievements within the Google Cloud ecosystem, and its role in enabling organizations across Qatar to adopt advanced digital technologies to solve complex technical challenges, while contributing to national development priorities in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. ABC is being ......read full article

Dukhan Bank Named “World's Best Islamic Private Bank” at Global Finance Awards 2026

Third consecutive year securing the prestigious global title Doha, Qatar – 23 April, 2026: Dukhan Bank has been named “World’s Best Islamic Private Bank” by Global Finance magazine as part of its World’s Best Islamic Financial Institutions 2026 awards, marking the third conseutive year the Bank has received this prestigious global recognition. This achievement reflects Dukhan Bank’s continued strength in delivering personalized private banking services, supported by deep market insight and innovative product offerings. Recognition over three consecutive years highlights the Banks ability to consistently evolve in line with its clients’ needs.   On this occasion, Mr. Ahmed I. Hashem, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Dukhan Bank, said: “This recognition reflects the ......read full article

Msheireb Properties honoured at Green World Awards, Cementing Global Sustainability Leadership

Doha, Qatar – 22 April 2026: Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable developer, has won a Green World Award 2026 for its flagship city, Msheireb Downtown Doha. Recognised in the Building & Construction sector within the Sustainability category, the award celebrates the district’s exceptional environmental standards and alignment with global best practices. The award was formally presented on 13 April at a ceremony at Cardiff Castle in Wales, United Kingdom. The Green World Awards, organised by the independent, non-profit Green Organisation, recognise and promote outstanding environmental achievements worldwide. Among the leading global environmental awards, entries are evaluated for innovation, sustainability, and contribution to responsible development. Msheireb Downtown Doha was selected from over ......read full article

Built in Qatar, Scaled Globally: Snoonu Enters the Cloud Era

 Snoonu is stepping into a new era. The Qatar-born tech company has officially launched Snoonu Cloud; a platform designed to help governments and businesses build and scale their own digital ecosystems. This marks a major shift for the company, evolving from a fast-growing super app into a technology infrastructure provider, exporting a model built and proven in Qatar to global markets. Beyond the launch itself, the move reflects a broader transformation, positioning Qatar not just as a consumer of technology, but as a creator and exporter of digital innovation.

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Premier Padel Newgiza P2, Day4 Stupaczuk is hungry: pursuit of a third title in Egypt goes on

In 2022 he won with Pablo Lima, in 2024 he repeated the success with Mike Yanguas. Once again alongside the Spanish player, Franco Stupaczuk is aiming to triumph for a third time under the pyramids. The number 2 seeds at the Premier Padel P2 in Newgiza continue their run: a comeback victory (3-6 6-3 6-1) over Javi Garrido and Lucas Bergamini secures a place in the semi-finals against Juan Tello and Edu Alonso (8), who progressed after a 6-4 2-6 6-4 win over Enzo Jensen and Luis Hernandez, who conclude an unforgettable week having started from the qualifying rounds and eliminated Juan Lebron and Leo Augsburger. The semi-final in the upper half of the draw will see defending champions Fede Chingotto and Ale Galan, ......read full article

Redefining Retail with Purpose: Mercato Leads Dubai as the Only Licensed Autism-Friendly Mall

At a time when meaningful community experiences matter more than ever, Mercato Shopping Mall continues to set a powerful example of inclusivity, proudly reinforcing its position as Dubai’s only licensed autism-friendly mall. More than just a retail destination, Mercato is shaping a space where every visitor feels understood, supported, and truly welcome. In collaboration with the Dubai Autism Centre, Mercato has implemented specialized training for its mall staff, equipping them with the knowledge and sensitivity needed to better assist individuals with autism and their families. This human-centered approach ensures that every interaction within the mall is rooted in empathy and awareness. Enhancing the overall visitor journey, Mercato has introduced a range of thoughtful sensory-friendly features. Families can access free ......read full article

Snoonu Launches “Snoonu Startup Factory” to Support the Next Generation of Founders and Invests in Sufra.

Doha, Qatar 14/04/2026 Snoonu has launched Snoonu Startup Factory, a new initiative designed to support and empower the next generation of founders and startups in Qatar and across the region. As part of this launch, the company announced its first investment; a $100,000 pre-seed investment in Sufra AI, a Qatar-based startup reimagining the dining experience through intelligent, personalized digital menus. Founded by Ekaterina Demenkova and Jemal Velihanova, graduates of Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Sufra AI is building what it describes as “the brain behind every table.” Through a simple QR scan, diners can access a smart menu that adapts to their preferences, recommends personalized options, and enables seamless ordering, customization, and payment. In addition to enhancing the customer experience, Sufra ......read full article

Dukhan Bank Announces QAR 1,000,000 Thara'a Grand Prize Winner

Doha, Qatar – 13 April 2026 – Dukhan Bank is pleased to announce that Mr. Ahmed AlFateh Mohamed has won QAR 1,000,000 in the first million‑riyal draw of the 2026 Thara’a campaign. The winner was selected through an electronic draw, conducted under the supervision and in the presence of a representative from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Qualitative License and Market Control Department. This year’s campaign features a significant increase in the volume of cash rewards, headlined by 4 grand prizes of QAR 1,000,000 each. In addition, it offers a robust monthly prize pool, including two prizes of QAR 20,000 each and 60 prizes of QAR 5,000. All draws will be conducted according to a designated schedule throughout the year. Commenting on behalf of his son, Mr. Ahmed’s father said: ......read full article

Premier Padel Newgiza P2, the draws. Padel returns under the pyramids: ‘Chingalan', Paula and Ari defend their titles

Padel returns under the pyramids. A new tournament on the Premier Padel circuit also brings a new place in the calendar. From October, the Newgiza P2 moves to April: it will be the fifth event of a season that has already delivered strong competition across the first four tournaments held in Asia (Riyadh), Europe (Gijón) and the Americas (Cancún and Miami). The tour now heads to Egypt, where Fede Chingotto and Ale Galán will defend their title; in the women’s event, it was Paula Josemaría and Ari Sánchez who lifted the trophy in 2025. MEN There will be 28 pairs in the men’s draw: ‘Chingalan’ lead the entry list and, like the other top three seeded pairs, will enter the competition in the second round. The defending champions will ......read full article

Snoonu and Namaa Join Forces to Empower Entrepreneurs and Advance Qatar's Innovation Economy

Doha, Qatar – April 6, 2026 In a strategic move to strengthen Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and accelerate innovation, Namaa Social Incubator, one of the centers under the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, and Snoonu, Qatar’s leading technology platform, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at empowering entrepreneurs and supporting the growth of emerging businesses. The partnership reflects a shared vision to foster a dynamic, inclusive, and knowledge-driven economy, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country’s ongoing efforts toward economic diversification and sustainable development. Through this collaboration, entrepreneurs within Namaa’s incubation programs will gain access to Snoonu’s digital platform and integrated ecosystem, enabling them to scale ......read full article

World Gold Council to Develop Shared Infrastructure for Digital Gold

Tuesday, 24th March, 2026 – The World Gold Council (WGC) announced recently a pioneering initiative to build new market infrastructure designed to unlock the next era of digital gold’s development. WGC has co-authored a White paper titled Digital Gold: The Case for a Shared Infrastructure with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) which explores “Gold as a Service” – a new platform to support the issuance and operation of scalable, interoperable digital gold products. Gold as a Service would act as an open platform, connecting the physical custody of gold with the digital systems used to issue and manage gold-backed products. By standardising essential market processes such as custody coordination, reconciliation, compliance and redemption, the model aims to reduce operational complexity, ......read full article

Education Above All Foundation Concludes the Third Edition of the Eid Gifts Campaign in a Spirit of Giving to Support Palestinian and Syrian Children

Doha, Qatar, 22 March 2026 - On the initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, Chairperson of Education Above All Foundation, the foundation, in partnership with Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), announced the distribution of brand-new Eid clothing to children in the Gaza Strip on the first day of Eid Al Fitr, as part of the third edition of the "Eid Gifts" campaign, which aimed to bring joy to children most in need. Purchase coupons were distributed to the beneficiary families to give them the opportunity to choose the clothes their children like. The distributions covered a total of 2,570 children from displaced and poor families in three main hubs, the Gaza Governorate, Deir Al-Balah, and Khan Yunis. In addition to the distribution in Gaza, the campaign's efforts also extended to Jordan, where ......read full article

On Air Traffic and Security Situation in the Sultanate of Oman

The Sultanate of Oman continues to closely monitor the ongoing regional developments. The competent authorities affirm that the situation within Oman remains stable, and all airports and Omani airspace are operating normally in accordance with approved regulations and international safety standards. Limited adjustments to certain flight schedules have been made due to temporary airspace closures in parts of the region. However, air traffic to and from Oman continues to operate smoothly. National carriers are maintaining their services with minor schedule updates in line with aviation safety requirements. The Sultanate reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of visitors, residents, and citizens, and to maintaining the uninterrupted operation of vital services and tourism activities.

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