Doha Design District Launches 'Mada and Sada': A new platform tracing the full arc of creative making

Doha, Qatar — June 21, 2026 Doha Design District, the creative hub at the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, powered by Msheireb Properties, has launched 'Mada and Sada': an immersive creative platform and spatial experience that invites visitors not just to witness art, but to understand how it comes to life. The name carries the concept within it — 'Mada' (the origin, the impulse) and 'Sada' (the echo, the expression) — together tracing the full journey from a first idea to its public life. Visitors can move through both spaces as one continuous experience, or explore each on its own terms. Either way, the invitation is the same: step inside the process, not just the product. The launch was attended by designers, artists, and members of Doha's wider creative community, and opened with ......read full article

EU261 Reform Misses the Mark on Delays and Competitiveness

17 June 2026 (Geneva) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed frustration that revisions to EU261 (Europe’s passenger rights regulations) stopped short of the meaningful reform needed to address the regulation’s deep flaws. The result is a missed opportunity with little to improve the passenger experience and nothing to shore-up European competitiveness. The only substantial changes with respect to disruptions were: The addition of a non-exhaustive list of extraordinary circumstances, albeit one which inexplicably fails to reinforce the industry’s safety-first approach, and A requirement for airports to have contingency plans for accommodation in the event of mass disruptions, which is a first small step on the road to shared accountability across the aviation ecosystem.

...read full article

A Serene Poolside Retreat Awaits at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait

Kuwait, 11 June 2026: Escape the city’s heat and retreat into a sanctuary of poolside tranquillity at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene views, guests are invited to unwind through a refined daytime experience defined by exceptional hospitality, elevated comfort, and thoughtfully curated dining, creating the perfect setting for peaceful escapes, intimate moments, or memorable family gatherings. The hotel offers different packages based on guests’ preferences: Signature Day Pass | KWD 45 | Receive KWD 15 dining credits Couple Sanctuary | KWD 70 (for two guests) | Receive KWD 30 dining credits Family Escape | KWD 85 (2 adults and 1 child) | Receive KWD 35 dining credits Grand Family Escape | KWD 90 (2 adults and 2 children) | Receive KWD 40 dining credits (plural - credits, not ......read full article

Doha Design District Announces Public Art Open Call Shortlist

More than 220 submissions received; proposals from 14 Nationalities were selected by a special jury The public can vote for their favourite work for the final winners to be selected Doha, Qatar – June 9, 2026: Doha Design District (DDD), powered by Msheireb Properties, has announced the 20 shortlisted projects advancing to the final stage of its Public Art Open Call, a milestone that reflects just how powerfully this initiative has captured the local and global creative imagination. The response was extraordinary. Over 220 proposals were received from 53 Nationalities, each one a testament to the hunger artists and designers feel to engage with real places, real communities, and the living fabric of a city. From that rich and diverse field, 20 works have been selected — five from Qatar, three from the United ......read full article

Qatar: A Premier Destination for Sustainable Tourism Landmarks

In Celebration of World Environment Day, Visit Qatar Highlights the Country's Leading Sustainable Experiences and Landmarks In celebration of World Environment Day on June 5, Visit Qatar is highlighting a diverse range of sustainable tourism destinations and experiences that reflect the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to sustainable development and responsible tourism. In alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Tourism Strategy 2030, sustainability continues to play a pivotal role in the development of the country's tourism sector. This is achieved through the expansion of sustainable infrastructure and the promotion of eco-friendly hospitality practices, ensuring the delivery of tourism experiences that strike a perfect balance between modern development and environmental ......read full article

Qatar Calendar June 2026 Features World-Class Championships, Major Exhibitions, and Family-Friendly Entertainment

Aligned with Qatar's summer season, Visit Qatar's 'Hala Summer' campaign, running from April to September 2026, sets the stage for a vibrant line-up of events and experiences across the country. A key highlight of the campaign, the 'Kids Go Free' promotion allows children to benefit from complimentary access and offers across accommodation, dining and entertainment experiences, reinforcing Qatar's appeal as a family-friendly destination for GCC travellers. Positioned as an accessible destination for GCC visitors, with convenient travel options by air and land, the June edition of Qatar Calendar highlights the beginning of a dynamic seasonal programme, reinforcing Qatar's positioning as a leading summer destination. Whether visitors are looking to experience the excitement of the Diamond League ......read full article

Qatar Calendar Announces Entertainment Programme for the Inaugural Edition of Sneaker Con Doha

Aligned with Visit Qatar's ongoing campaign 'Hala Summer', Qatar Calendar has announced the entertainment and activation programme for the inaugural edition of Sneaker Con Doha, with Redbull as official entertainment partner and M7 as official partner, taking place from May 29 to 31, 2026 at Hall 1 of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Hosting "The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth" in Doha for the first time, the three-day event will deliver an immersive celebration of sneaker culture, streetwear, music, sport and entertainment as part of Qatar Calendar's diverse annual events calendar. Spanning more than 7,000 square metres, the event will feature seven dedicated zones designed to offer visitors an engaging and interactive experience. These include the Kids Zone, Main Stage, Skater Park, DJ ......read full article

Qatar Calendar Announces Ticket Sales for the Largest Edition of Qatar Toy Festival

Qatar Calendar has announced the launch of ticket sales for the biggest edition of the Qatar Toy Festival, taking place this year under the theme “More Fun, Endless Joy.” The festival will be held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) from July 1 to 31, 2026, offering families and visitors an exceptional entertainment experience as part Visit Qatar’s ‘Hala Summer’ campaign. Visitors can now secure their tickets through ticketing platforms from https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/qatar-toy-festival  The festival also offers a variety of ticket packages designed to suit individuals and families. The General Admission Ticket (QAR 50 on weekdays and QAR 70 on weekends) grants one person entry for one day only. The Unlimited Fun Ticket (QAR 80) offers access to all ......read full article

Celebrate Eid al-Adha in Qatar with family entertainment, cultural experiences and exclusive summer offers

Qatar invites visitors from across the GCC to celebrate Eid al-Adha with a vibrant mix of entertainment, culture and family-friendly experiences. Taking place during Visit Qatar's 'Hala Summer' season, the festive period offers a diverse calendar of events across the country, making it an ideal time to explore the destination. From live performances to exhibitions and interactive attractions, Qatar presents a well-rounded programme that blends celebration with discovery. Plan your Eid getaway with 'Hala Summer' offers and family-friendly experiences This Eid, visitors can enjoy a relaxing getaway across Qatar's leading hotels and resorts, enhanced by exclusive 'Hala Summer' offers. With convenient access from across the GCC, Qatar offers a seamless travel experience combined with exceptional value ......read full article

Qatar Airways Group posts QAR 7.08bn net profit (US$1.94bn) for financial year 2025/26, demonstrating prudent growth and operational resilience

DOHA, Qatar - Wednesday, 20. May 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Qatar Airways Group today announced a post-tax profit of QAR 7.08bn (US$ 1.94bn) for financial year 2025/26. The results demonstrate a robust performance against a final month impacted by significant geopolitical events, reaffirming its position as one of global aviation’s most resilient Groups. Throughout financial year 2025/26, the Group continued to develop, innovate and provide world-class services and experiences to passengers and businesses. The airline carried more than 41.8 million passengers, maintaining extensive global connectivity through Hamad International Airport. The Group’s cargo division continued to excel, having transported more than 1.43 million tonnes of chargeable weight, advancing its position as the world’s largest air freight ......read full article

We Design Msheireb Brings Community Together Through Craft and Cultural Exchange at Doha Design District

A design-led activation highlights participatory making and shared creativity through textile and clay workshops Doha, Qatar – 19 May 2026: Doha Design District, powered by Mshiereb Properties, successfully hosted 'We Design Msheireb', a one-day creative activation that brought together the community through hands-on workshops rooted in craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and collaborative making. Held at the Atrium Space in the District's main hub, the event welcomed participants to engage directly with design as both a process and a shared human experience. The activation featured two workshops running simultaneously, offering distinct yet complementary creative journeys. The Textile Workshop, led by Hazati, introduced participants to traditional Palestinian embroidery and cross-stitching techniques, developed ......read full article

Qatar Announces 'Summer Splash' at Meryal Waterpark Beach, Featuring Nickelodeon's PAW Patrol and SpongeBob SquarePants

The activations add to Qatar's diverse summer programme, offering family-friendly experiences for visitors from across the GCC Qatar Calendar, part of Visit Qatar, has announced the launch of 'Summer Splash', a month-long family entertainment experience taking place at Meryal Waterpark Beach from 1 to 30 June 2026. Featuring Nickelodeon's globally recognised characters from PAW Patrol and SpongeBob SquarePants, the event will bring together immersive entertainment, interactive activities, and live performances in one exciting destination for families and visitors from across the GCC. Presented by Qatar Calendar, organised by Events & Entertainment Enterprises (E3) in partnership with Paramount and Spin Master, and produced by EventBox, the event forms part of Visit Qatar's 'Hala Summer' campaign. The ......read full article

Place vendôme launches 'rooted in resilience:' a community campaign celebrating qatar's cultural spirit through the power of the sidra tree

Qatar's premier lifestyle destination unites community, culture, and collective hope through an immersive campaign that culminates in a landmark Sidra Tree Plantation Ceremony honouring exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of resilience Doha, Qatar – 17 May 2026: Place Vendôme, Qatar's premier luxury shopping, lifestyle, and entertainment destination, has launched 'Rooted in Resilience,' a community-driven campaign inspired by the Sidra tree, one of Qatar's most enduring cultural symbols. A heartfelt tribute to Qatar and its leadership, it celebrates the strength, stability, and resilience the country continues to demonstrate - while bringing together individuals from the community who represent those same values through their own journeys and contributions. Native to the Gulf and revered across ......read full article

Air Arabia Reports AED 278 Million Net Profit for First Quarter 2026

First-quarter turnover reaches AED 1.8 billion; seat load factor rises to 86% with 4.7 million passengers carried. Doha-Qatar May 15, 2026: Air Arabia (PJSC), the first and largest budget carrier operator in the Middle East and North Africa, today announced its financial and operational results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2026. Air Arabia reported a net profit of AED 278 million for the first quarter ending March 31, 2026, representing a 22 percent decline compared to AED 355 million recorded in the same period last year. This drop was driven by the impact of the ongoing conflict in the region, which resulted in a sharp reduction in capacity due to airspace closures and temporary operational restrictions. The airline recorded a turnover of AED 1.8 billion during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 1 percent ......read full article

Mercato Mall Presents Unfolding in Blue — A Moving Tribute to Inclusion, Creativity, and Sensory Art

An Inspiring Collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio Celebrating People of Determination A wave of creativity, emotion, and human connection has arrived at Mercato Shopping Mall with the launch of Unfolding in Blue — a powerful sensory art exhibition running from 7th to 13th May 2026 in collaboration with Mawaheb Art Studio, the celebrated creative hub dedicated to empowering People of Determination through artistic expression and inclusion. More than a traditional exhibition, Unfolding in Blue invites visitors into an immersive multi-sensory experience inspired by the many emotional layers and symbolic beauty of the color blue. Through a striking collection of artworks created by Mawaheb’s talented artists, the exhibition explores themes of identity, accessibility, emotion, and belonging — encouraging visitors to ......read full article

Qatar Calendar Presents a Packed Programme of Family Entertainment, Championships and Exhibitions in May 2026

As part of 'Hala Summer', the 'Kids Go Free' offer introduces added value for families travelling to Qatar this season Aligned with Qatar's summer season, Visit Qatar's 'Hala Summer' campaign, running from April to September 2026, sets the stage for a vibrant line-up of events and experiences across the country. A key highlight of the campaign, the 'Kids Go Free' promotion allows children to benefit from complimentary access and offers across accommodation, dining and entertainment experiences, reinforcing Qatar's appeal as a family-friendly destination for GCC travellers. Positioned as an accessible destination for GCC visitors, with convenient travel options by air and land, the May edition of Qatar Calendar highlights the beginning of a dynamic seasonal programme, reinforcing ......read full article

Qatar Calendar Announces the Return of Qatar Toy Festival 2026, Its Largest Edition to Date

Building on strong regional momentum, with GCC visitors contributing significantly to the festival's growing success and appeal Qatar Calendar has announced the return of the Qatar Toy Festival (QTF) in 2026 under the slogan 'More to Imagine, A Whole World of Fun'. The festival will take place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) from 1 to 31 July, spanning more than 22,000 sqm across four halls. This year's edition marks the largest and most immersive iteration of the festival to date. As part of Visit Qatar's 'Hala Summer' campaign, QTF 2026 evolves into a fully integrated entertainment experience, bringing together global brands, live performances, retail offerings, and interactive activations, in collaboration with Spacetoon. Following the success of the previous edition, which ......read full article

Visit Qatar Launches 'Hala Summer', Inviting GCC Travellers to Discover Qatar this summer

Visit Qatar has announced the launch of its annual summer campaign under the slogan 'Hala Summer', inviting families and visitors from GCC countries to experience a summer programme of events and entertainment across the State of Qatar. With close proximity and seamless connectivity by air and land, Qatar offers a convenient and easily accessible summer destination for GCC travellers. The campaign reflects Visit Qatar's commitment to delivering a fully integrated tourism experience, combining hospitality, entertainment and family-oriented offerings within a culturally familiar environment. Running from May to the end of September 2026, the campaign reinforces Qatar's positioning as a vibrant summer destination, showcasing a diverse mix of entertainment, hospitality and leisure experiences available across the ......read full article

CNS Preparing for 2026 Annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco

23 April 2026 - Cargo Network Services Corporation (CNS) is gearing up to host its annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco (USA) from 18-20 May 2026. Being held under the theme “Elevating Air Cargo: Partnerships, Progress & Possibilities”, the conference is the premier networking event for the US air cargo industry, bringing together around 700 stakeholders and representatives from across the air cargo value chain. The CNS Partnership Conference combines informative plenary sessions and presentations focused on innovation and challenges in the cargo business, with a variety of networking and social events. CNS President Alicia Lines will open the event and will be joined by numerous recognized leaders of the cargo and aviation community, including: Brandon Fried, Executive ......read full article

Al Haboob Signals Ambition Ahead of Qatar Debut with New Recruits

·         Saudi-based team targets further success in the Grand Annual Closing Festival in Qatar with a three-camel lineup ·         Al Haboob adopts quality-over-quantity approach ahead of this weekend’s key regional contest Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 16 April 2026: Al Haboob (????????) has issued another major statement of intent, investing over 2 million Saudi Riyals in new camels ahead of the Grand Annual Closing Festival at Al Shahaniya Racecourse on April 20 and 21, where it will field a three-camel lineup. Following a second and sixth place finish in recent outings, the world’s first professional camel racing team is eager to prove it belongs among the elite. With a clear intent to win, Al ......read full article

PoCs Prove Industry is Ready for Contactless Travel

08 April 2026 (Singapore) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published the results of several digital identity Proofs of Concept (PoCs) completed with the support of airlines, airports, technology providers and governments across Europe and Asia-Pacific. The successful PoCs demonstrated that contactless, biometric-enabled international travel is already achievable with digital identity replacing paper documentation. Working together as part of the IATA Strategic Partnerships Program, the partners tested how digital identity stored in mobile wallets and biometric verification can support seamless passenger journeys without repeated paper document checks. Importantly, the PoCs demonstrated that interoperability of systems is sufficiently advanced to support contactless journeys involving multiple ......read full article

Air Cargo Demand up 11.2% in February 2026

31 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for February 2026 global air cargo markets showing: Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 11.2% compared to February 2025 levels (+11.6% for international operations). Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 8.5% compared to February 2025 (+9.8% for international operations). "Air cargo demand grew 11.2% in February. Even considering the boost that February received from the movement of goods ahead of Lunar New Year, the month showed strong growth. The outbreak of war in the Middle East at the end of the month, however, makes it difficult to see how full-year performance will unfold. Sharply rising fuel costs, fuel scarcity in parts of the world, and the ......read full article

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes

EU Must Review EU ETS to Support Competitiveness as Aviation Decarbonizes 24 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) calls for the review of the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) to enhance European air connectivity and economic resilience by improving the competitiveness of Europe’s air transport industry. IATA calls for the review to: Ensure full implementation of CORSIA for all international flights, including flights within the European Economic Area (EEA) routes. To prevent market fragmentations, the EU should avoid regional derogations, additional eligibility hurdles, and overlapping measures that conflict with this global framework. Enable a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) book-and-claim system for the claiming of environmental ......read full article

Air Travel Demand Will More Than Double by 2050

17 March 2026 (Geneva) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its Long‑Term Demand Projections (LTDP) for air travel, showing that global air passenger demand is expected to more than double by 2050. Under the mid‑range scenario, demand is forecast to reach 20.8 trillion revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% (2024-2050) from the 9 trillion RPKs seen in 2024. A higher growth scenario would see a 3.3% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 21.9 trillion RPKs in 2050. A lower growth scenario would see 2.9% CAGR with passenger demand reaching 19.5 trillion RPKs by 2050. The different scenarios are driven by alternative modeling of long-term economic growth, populations, aviation fuel price trends, the global energy transition, and air ......read full article

IATA Launches DG Digital to Fully Digitalize Dangerous Goods Declarations

13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a significant reduction in rejected shipments. Today, 95% of Dangerous Goods Declarations are still received in paper format. These declarations must be scanned, converted into a PDF document, then uploaded into DG AutoCheck to be validated. With DG Digital, declarations are generated and transmitted digitally from creation by the shipper to validation. This creates a more efficient and ......read full article

IATA Advances AI Initiatives to Support Air Cargo Operations

12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain: Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based application that helps operational teams quickly find information in IATA cargo and safety publications by asking questions in plain language. The tool provides accurate answers within seconds. This supports faster operational decision-making, strengthens compliance, and improves efficiency in time-critical environments. The AI SME will be available initially for the IATA Dangerous Goods ......read full article

Air Cargo Enable $157 Billion in Frontloaded Trade and Supported AI Growth in 2025

11 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that: Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025. Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global AI-related goods in 2025. These activities supported global trade growth of 2.4% in 2025—well above initial forecasts by the World Trade Organization. Global GDP also expanded by 3.2% despite significant policy headwinds. “Air cargo is a structural component of global economic resilience. In 2025, it helped businesses absorb tariff shocks, enabled rapid trade restructuring, and ......read full article

Highlights Three Priorities for Air Cargo

11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry: Accelerating digitalization Strengthening global standards Enhancing safety and security "Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events impacting global supply chains—including the tariff and geopolitical shocks—it is important that we work on building resilience in areas we can control or influence. Working together to strengthen digitalization, global standards, and supply chain security will position air cargo well to continue supporting economic growth by connecting products to markets," said Brendan Sullivan, ......read full article

IATA Releases 2025 Safety Report

0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights: The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27. There were 51 accidents in 2025 among 38.7 million flights. That is fewer than the 54 accidents among 37.9 million flights in 2024, but above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 44 accidents. There were eight fatal accidents in 2025. That is more than the seven fatal accidents recorded in 2024 and the five-year average of six fatal accidents. There were 394 onboard fatalities in 2025, more than the 244 fatalities reported in ......read full article

IATA Focus Africa to Spotlight Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency

9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. "Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Focus Africa aims to align the continent's aviation stakeholders in taking the pragmatic steps needed to turn potential into a sustainable ......read full article

IATA Opens Nominations for 2026 Edition of Diversity & Inclusion Awards

26 February 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 edition of the IATA Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Awards. The Awards recognize excellence in the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry in three categories: The Inspirational Role Model Award recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had substantial impact on diversity and inclusion in aviation through her significant influence at global level. The High Flyer Award recognizes a female aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry. The Diversity & ......read full article

Etihad rail reveals passenger experience ahead of uae network launch

Designed around comfort, reliability and time gained A calm option for commuters, business travellers and families A passenger experience built for every-day and every-way of life Abu Dhabi, UAE – 25 February 2026: Following the announcement of the UAE's national passenger rail network, Etihad Rail has revealed new details on what passengers can expect when services start operating later this year. The passenger experience has been developed with a clear focus on how people live, work and travel across the UAE today, offering a modern, comfortable and reliable alternative to intercity driving, while supporting the country's wider mobility and sustainability goals. Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility said: "This next phase of our passenger journey is about moving from infrastructure to ......read full article

Airlines Call for Annual 4.9% Reduction in Spanish Airport Charges

18 February 2026 (Geneva/Madrid) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Spanish Airline Association (ALA) called for an annual reduction of 4.9% (excluding inflation) in Spanish airport charges over the next five years (2027–2031), a level compatible with maintaining an airport investment plan of nearly €10 billion over the same period, and enhancing Spain’s economic competitiveness. AENA, the operator of most airports in Spain, has proposed an annual increase of 3.8% (excluding inflation) for the five-year period covered by the Third Airport Regulation Document (DORA III). Airlines reject this proposal, citing AENA’s consistent underestimation of traffic growth and the excessive regulated returns it has earned during previous regulatory periods. Between 2017 and 2025, ......read full article

The Inaugural Art Basel Qatar Marks a Defining Moment in Doha's Cultural Rise

The conclusion of Art Basel Qatar 2026 has marked a defining moment in Doha’s cultural evolution, reinforcing the city’s position as a leading hub for contemporary art and creative exchange in the region. Held from February 3 to 7 across M7 Cultural Forum and the Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the inaugural edition brought together leading galleries, collectors, curators and artists from Qatar, the wider MENASA region and beyond. As Art Basel’s fifth global fair, the Qatar edition reflected a deliberate curatorial approach that placed regional narratives within a global framework. With Visit Qatar as lead partner, the Art Basel Qatar 2026 was developed in partnership with Art Basel, Qatar Sports Investments and QC+ to celebrate Qatar’s growing cultural leadership while creating a ......read full article

Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers Introduces "Nasmah" at The Quarter

Inspired by Tradition and Togetherness, Nasmah Sets the Scene for Elevated Ramadan Gatherings Throughout the Holy Month Doha, Qatar – 16 February 2026:  Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers marks its first Ramadan season in Doha with the introduction of Nasmah, a new Ramadan tent at The Quarter. Inspired by the spirit of the Holy Month and reimagined through Swissôtel's refined approach to hospitality, Nasmah presents a thoughtfully curated setting designed for meaningful Iftar and Suhoor gatherings rooted in tradition, elegance, and togetherness. Set within The Quarter at Swissôtel Doha Corniche Park Towers, Nasmah forms the heart of the hotel's Ramadan experience this season. The setting complements Swissôtel's philosophy of thoughtful hospitality, where refined service, attention to detail, and a calm, ......read full article

Raffles doha named five-star hotel in forbes travel guide's 2026 star awards

Raffles Doha Earns Prestigious Accolade; Ratings Showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com Doha, Qatar, 12 February 2026: Forbes Travel Guide ("FTG"), the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruise ships, today announced its 2026 Star Awards. Raffles Doha earned a new Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star award and is showcased with other honourees on ForbesTravelGuide.com. Situated within the iconic Katara Towers, Raffles Doha is a defining masterpiece of Lusail's skyline. It has established a new global benchmark for ultra-luxury hospitality as Qatar's first all-suite property. As you step into the soaring kaleidoscopic atrium of Raffles Doha, you are greeted with a personalised welcome. The hotel's suites feature majestic, vaulted ceilings and private balconies that open up to spectacular ......read full article

IDAM Received the “Best Restaurant in Qatar” Award at MENA's 50 BEST Excellence Recognised

Doha, Qatar — 10 February 2026: IDAM by Alain Ducasse (IDAM), the MICHELIN-starred fine-dining restaurant located at the Museum of Islamic Art, received the ‘’Best Restaurant in Qatar’’ Award and has been ranked 44 on MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, reaffirming its status as one of the region’s most distinguished culinary destinations. This prestigious recognition reflects the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, innovation, and exceptional guest experiences. Aligned with QC+, a mark of distinction that celebrates quality, creativity, and cultural excellence in Qatar, IDAM is celebrated for its innovative fine dining with focus on preservation. The restaurant’s inclusion in MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants highlights not only its culinary mastery, but also its ......read full article

Msheireb Downtown Doha Unveils “Layali Msheireb” Ramadan Seasonal Programme

Doha, Qatar – 11 February 2026: Msheireb Properties has unveiled its comprehensive seasonal programme for Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr 2026, themed “Layali Msheireb.” Running through the holy month, the smart and sustainable district, Msheireb Downtown Doha, will become a glowing hub of community, celebration, and spiritual contemplation through a series of intricate installations and cultural activations. A Season of Spiritual and Cultural Reflection The Barahat Msheireb will serve as the centrepiece for evening gatherings, hosting exclusive Iftar and Suhoor experiences in collaboration with the Mandarin Oriental Doha. These “Baraha Ramadan Nights” offer families and friends a refined setting to break their fast amidst the district's striking architecture. A defining feature of this ......read full article

AROYA Cruises Prepares for Highly Anticipated Inaugural Arabian Gulf Season

Saudi Arabia's first cruise line invites travellers across the region to rediscover the Arabian Gulf through an authentically Arabian, world-class cruising experience Doha-Qatar, 5 February 2026 – AROYA Cruises — the first Arabian cruise line introduced by Cruise Saudi, a 100% PIF-owned company - unveiled its much-anticipated inaugural Arabian Gulf season, commencing in February 2026. The new season introduces a range of voyages, from two-, three- and four-night itineraries to five-, six-, and seven-night journeys, offering guests a new way to explore the region's most vibrant destinations by sea. AROYA brings the warmth and familiarity of its signature 'Remarkably Arabian' hospitality to the onboard experience, blending authentic Saudi culture with world-class cruise standards. From diverse ......read full article

Visit Qatar Launches Exclusive Travel Packages for Qatar Football Festival 2026 and Finalissima Spain vs Argentina Showdown

Visit Qatar, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, has announced the launch of exclusive travel packages for international fans attending the Qatar Football Festival 2026, taking place from 26 to 31 March 2026. Available starting February 1, 2026, the packages offer football fans a unique opportunity to attend the highly anticipated Finalissima 2026 match between Argentina and Spain at the iconic Lusail Stadium. The festival will also feature a series of high-profile international fixtures involving the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Serbia. Designed to enhance the visitor journey and facilitate access, the travel packages deliver a seamless sports tourism experience, enabling visitors to enjoy world-class competition in Qatar’s state-of-the-art stadiums while ......read full article