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Doha, Qatar – 29 October 2024 – In a further display of Qatar’s evolution into a MICE sector powerhouse, Visit Qatar, the official tourism platform promoting the country as a premier travel destination, hosted a workshop with multiple players from the sector on October 6, 2024. And with the objective of providing local stakeholders with the necessary tools to better position Qatar as a premier destination for business events, Qatar Tourism, the government entity responsible for planning, regulating, and promoting the tourism industry, is ramping up its efforts to support the local MICE industry to meet international standards and demand. It recently made a splash at Global Exhibitions Day (GED), launched by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, with HE Saad Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, in attendance.

As reported by The Peninsula, Al Kharji stated that Qatar’s MICE industry is “supported by well-advanced infrastructure, a business-friendly ecosystem, and state-of-the-art venues,” all of which provide options for the country to continue developing and consolidating in the sector.

The latest edition of GED, under the theme Exhibitions are Catalysts to Sustainable Futures, aimed to showcase the “universal impact of exhibitions across multiple industries to drive progress, facilitate economic growth, connect people, and foster sustainability in business.”

And the MICE sector will have another strong showing this November 20 at Barahat Msheireb as The Business Year hosts the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference 2024: Investing in the Future.

The Business Year is a global media group that has been providing investors, businesses, and governments with first-hand insights into the world’s most dynamic markets for over 15 years. The event will be held in collaboration with Msheireb Properties, which is dedicated to transforming living spaces in a way that enriches the quality of life, and this collaboration further underscores its commitment to transforming Qatar into a vibrant hub for investment and innovation.

At the event, Eng. Irene Vidal, CEO of FMM, will share her expertise on the facility management industry, providing attendees with valuable insights on the development of this sector during the conference’s second panel, which will be on the topic of innovation and sustainability. Additionally, Enbat Holdings, which will be the event’s Sustainability Partner, will leverage its capacities as a leading Qatari vegan company to reduce the conference’s environmental footprint.

The Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council (QRDI), the event’s Innovation Sponsor, will also provide insights into the development of Qatar as a hub for R&D efforts across multiple economic sectors, further showcasing how events such as the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference can foster discussions among different industries, create synergies, and support Qatar’s economic growth.

In addition to these key partners, Mohamed Bin Hamad Holding, one of Qatar’s most significant family-led companies with activities in a variety of sectors, will also be present at the event as one of its sponsors, a testament to the capacity and reach the Qatari MICE industry has to uplift the country’s many stakeholders.

These key figures, along with high-level representatives from across the Qatari economy and the GCC—Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and the UAE are set to be represented—will gather in one place to explore how innovation, investment, and sustainability all intersect to establish the best way forward for economic development in the region. Discussing key elements from an international perspective will also allow attendees to comprehend how cross-border collaboration and coordination will be a major benefit not only for Qatar, but for each one of its regional partners.

The Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference 2024: Investing in the Future will also serve as an introduction to The Business Year’s upcoming tenth annual economic report on the local economy, The Business Year: Qatar 2025. With a focus on Qatar’s third National Development Strategy, the event will deepen the business ecosystem’s understanding of where the current opportunities lie, invoke new ways to foster collaboration, and help attendees discover the best ways to build a sustainable future.

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Doha, Qatar, 28 October 2024 — Msheireb Properties, the leading sustainable real estate developer in Qatar, announced winning several prestigious awards at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2024, presented by Qatar Tourism and UNWTO, for the second consecutive year. Msheireb Downtown Doha and Msheireb Museums won multiple awards that confirm their excellence in sustainable tourism and heritage preservation, reflecting their distinction as outstanding destinations for living, working, and leisure in Qatar. In the hospitality sector, Msheireb Properties’ hotels received several awards, including Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, Mandarin Oriental Doha, and Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel.

The Qatar Tourism Awards recognise innovation and excellence in the nation’s tourism sector, aiming to raise awareness of Qatar as a world-class tourism and leisure destination. These awards highlight standout experiences and commend the efforts of key players who enrich the visitor journey, enabling Qatar’s growth as a hub for cultural and environmental tourism.

Eng. Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari, CEO of Msheireb Properties, expressed his excitement about the company’s strong performance at the awards: “We’re honoured to see our contributions to Qatar’s dynamic tourism landscape acknowledged once again. The Qatar Tourism Awards celebrate the very best of the industry, and it’s a special distinction for us to be recognised among them. We’d also like to congratulate all the other winners—last night’s ceremony truly showcased the depth of talent that makes Qatar a leading regional and global destination.”

Msheireb Properties’ developments earned multiple prestigious recognitions this year: Msheireb Downtown Doha was named Leading Sustainable Attraction, while Msheireb Museums received the Iconic Local Attraction award. The company’s hospitality portfolio achieved remarkable success, with Mandarin Oriental Doha winning Outstanding 5-Star Hotel, and Zulal Wellness Resort securing two awards: Exceptional Resort Experience and Exceptional Spa Experience through its Chiva-Som, Hua Hin facility. Adding to these achievements, Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel was recognized as the Outstanding 3-Star Hotel.

Eng. Al Kuwari added: “Msheireb Downtown is rapidly becoming a must-visit locale for travelers seeking a unique cultural journey—one that blends modern innovation with authentic Qatari heritage. It’s a privilege to have revitalised Doha’s historical core while supporting Qatar’s sustainable urban living goals as outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

As a key cultural and tourist destination, Msheireb Downtown Doha contributes to the growth of Qatar’s tourism sector by promoting cultural exchange, nurturing social interaction, and championing sustainability. The project embodies the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.

Eng. Al Kuwari concluded: “These awards reflect the hard work of our entire team. We remain dedicated to preserving Qatar’s rich cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of sustainable development. By leveraging innovative technologies and creating meaningful cultural experiences, we’ll continue to attract diverse visitors and solidify Msheireb Downtown Doha as a vital cultural hub for years to come.”

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Event Highlights Groundbreaking Advances in Personalised HealthcareDoha, Qatar – 15 October 2024 – Msheireb Museums, in collaboration with Sidra Medicine, hosted the fifth session of the Science Café series on 14 October 2024 at Bin Jelmood House. Titled “Unveiling the Wonders of Precision Medicine,” the event offered valuable insights into the transformative potential of personalised care, which tailors healthcare solutions based on a patient’s genetic makeup, environment, and lifestyle.

Mr. Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, expressed his pride in the ongoing collaboration with Sidra Medicine, saying, “The Science Café series continues to serve as an essential platform for discussing the future of healthcare and creating accessible opportunities for members of our community to gather knowledge and insights that can improve their lives. Today’s session supports our museum’s mission of sharing remarkable stories of transformation. By convening experts, researchers, and the public, we are facilitating a knowledge exchange that could pave the way for healthier futures.”

Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer, who also spoke about Sidra Medicine’s Precision Medicine Program said: “The latest Science Café session on Unlocking the Power of Genomic Information, puts the spotlight on Qatar’s innovative programs to bring genomic research into healthcare. Sidra Medicine is leading this effort to personalize diagnosis and treatment for our young patients. Our milestones in genomic screening, clinical trials and whole-genome sequencing continue to push boundaries in standard-of-care, to develop best in class management for pediatric precision health in Qatar and the region.”

The session featured presentations from leading experts in the field of precision medicine. Dr. Khalid Fakhroo spoke about Sidra Medicine’s precision medicine programme, while Dr. Khalid Hussain discussed the potential for precision medicine to tackle complex diseases through the use of genomic testing. Additionally, Dr. Said Ismail highlighted the power of genomic data to unlock remarkable improvements in patient outcomes.

Sidra Medicine’s Chief of Endocrinology, Prof. Khalid Hussain, presentation on “Personalising Care through Genomic Insights” featured updates on the targeted therapies used for children with obesity. Prof. Hussain shared a patient story about the successful treatment protocol of a young infant who was genetically predisposed to obesity, whose life was dramatically changed by the care she received at the hospital.

Dr. Sahar Da’as, Research Manager at Sidra Medicine, who leads the Science Café series said, “Platforms like our Science Café series have been a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community on a wide range of topics that previously would have been inaccessible. We are grateful to Msheireb Museums for being a fantastic partner in helping us highlight the depth and the wealth of the scientific and research programmes in Qatar, that make precision medicine a reality for children and families.”

The event included an engaging panel discussion and an interactive Q&A session that allowed participants to explore how precision medicine is shaping the future of healthcare, making treatments more effective and tailored to the individual. In addition, attendees had the opportunity to visit information booths and learn more about ongoing research projects and their implications for future healthcare models.

Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine remain committed to continuing the Science Café series, bringing experts, patients, and the wider community together to explore and discuss critical health issues. This collaboration demonstrates the shared vision of both organisations to elevate the conversation around healthcare and drive change in fields like precision medicine and beyond.

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Doha, Qatar, September 18, 2024 – For the second consecutive year, Naufar Center and Msheireb Museums are collaborating to present an art exhibition titled “Do You See Me?” coinciding with the global “Recovery Month” and in celebration of World Mental Health Day on October 10th.

The “Do You See Me?” exhibition is part of ongoing initiatives and partnerships between the two organizations to raise community awareness about mental health, especially substance use disorders. This exhibition comes within the framework of a previously signed memorandum of understanding, focusing on providing comprehensive and integrated support for individuals affected by addictionand offering platforms for community interaction and awareness about social issues as part of both organizations commitment to enhancing community well-being, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

In this context, Mr. Abdullah Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, stated: “We are pleased to host this important exhibition for the second time at Msheireb Museums. Our role as a cultural institution goes beyond merely displaying history; we strive to be a platform for community dialogue on important contemporary issues. Through this collaboration with Naufar Center, we hope to contribute to changing societal perceptions towards mental health and addiction issues and to encourage a deeper and more compassionate understanding of these challenges.”

The “Do You See Me?” exhibition will be held at Company House in Msheireb Museums from September 19 to October 12, 2024. It aims to shed light on substance use disorders and raise community awareness about their causes and factors. The exhibition also seeks to provide interactive dialogue platforms that allow the public to explore this issue through a human, cultural, and creative artistic language.

The exhibition also serves as a platform for dialogue around addiction, understanding it through a human, cultural, and creative artistic language. The exhibition aims to combat misconceptions about addiction and mental health in Qatari society through artworks created during “Expressive Art Therapy” sessions at Naufar Center. It provides an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue about mental health and addiction and address these shared concerns with clarity and confidence.

In this regard, Dr. Khalifa Al Kuwari, Assistant Director General at Naufar Center, emphasized the role of Msheireb Museums in hosting the exhibition, pointing to their contribution in creating a supportive environment for individuals affected by addiction. He explained that providing a purposeful space like this exhibition helps create positive change in the community’s understanding of addiction and mental health issues and encourages dialogue about the importance of community support. Dr. Al Kuwari confirmed that this collaboration not only increases awareness about substance use disorders but also contributes to enhancing recovery opportunities, benefiting the entire community.

Dr. Al Kuwari added: “Substance use disorder is a complex health condition resulting from biological, psychological, and social factors, requiring specialized treatment and comprehensive support that is not limited to a specific entity, but is everyone’s responsibility. Every individual in the community has a role in providing support to people affected by addiction to help them rebuild their lives. Through collective efforts, we can reduce the stigma that poses a barrier to individuals seeking help.”

The artworks displayed in the exhibition were created during expressive art therapy sessions at Naufar Center during the treatment period. They reflect stories of recovery. The exhibition invites everyone to interact with these works from a human perspective that enhances empathy, supports specialized treatment, and affirms the possibility of recovery.

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Doha, Qatar – September 15, 2024 – Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable real estate developer, in – cooperation with Qatar Charity and White Event company, announced an upcoming opening of a charitable art installation titled “Echo of Lost Innocence” designed by multidisciplinary artist Bachir Mohammad. The artwork will be displayed at Barahat Msheireb in Msheireb Downtown Doha from 16 to 26 September 2024, serving as a symbol of deep empathy and solidarity with the children of Gaza and as a call for global solidarity with their suffering. The installation will be open to the public daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with free admission.

Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, CEO of Msheireb Properties, commented on hosting this charitable artwork: “Msheireb Downtown Doha serves as a platform for cultural and artistic expression, social impact, and interaction. We consider the art project ‘Echo of Lost Innocence’ a reflection of this role and our ongoing commitment to providing spaces that support humanitarian causes and encourage positive societal change, while addressing pressing global issues.”

Mr. Yousef bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, CEO of Qatar Charity, emphasised the humanitarian aspect of the project: “This collaboration with our partners at Msheireb Properties and artist Bachir Mohammad allows us to harness art to provide tangible support for Gaza’s children. The proceeds from this initiative will directly contribute to our ongoing efforts in the region, providing essential aid and planting hope for victims of conflicts and wars. This joint effort demonstrates the positive impact that institutional coordination and cooperation can achieve in addressing regional and global humanitarian challenges and crises, and alleviating their severity.”

The art installation contains over 15,000 small teddy bear sculptures, each symbolising a child’s life lost during the war up to the start of this project. The bears wear black T-shirts with the message:

“I’m not just a number. I’m human. With an identity. With a homeland. I am Palestine.”

Artist Bachir Mohammad, who designed and envisioned this artwork, spoke about his inspiration: “As an artist and designer, I believe in the immense power of visual storytelling to evoke empathy and encourage action to make a tangible difference in reality. The idea for ‘Echo of Lost Innocence’ emerged from a deep sense of responsibility towards the suffering and plight endured by children in conflict zones, and the duty to highlight this in the public sphere. In this work, the teddy bears embody the lives of thousands of children who had dreams and were nurtured by families, only to find themselves facing a lost future consumed by war. Through this installation, I want to remind the world of their suffering and call for action to help them, hoping to ignite in visitors a spark that drives them to contribute to making a real positive change by supporting the children of Gaza.”

Mohammad added: “I chose to use teddy bears because they symbolise childhood and safety on a global level and across many cultures, which starkly contrasts with the bitter reality experienced by Gaza’s children. By placing them on concrete, I wanted to draw attention to the tragedy of stolen childhood innocence and the destruction that has affected homes and schools in Gaza. This visual contrast aims to stimulate reflection on the long-term effects of war on the youngest and most vulnerable age group in society.”

Following the installation of the artwork at Barahat Msheireb, a group exhibition titled “For the Children of Gaza” will be held at Msheireb Museums in Bin Jelmood House. The museum exhibition is designed to expand the impact of “Echo of Lost Innocence” and present multiple voices advocating for action by featuring works and designs by local artists.

The event is supported by Msheireb Museums, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Msheireb Galleria, almarkhiya Gallery, The Local Context, Bluribbon Design Atelier, iPrint, and Salamis.

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Doha, Qatar – September 4, 2024 – Msheireb Properties announced the successful conclusion of the Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) Summer Season, which has firmly established MDD as Qatar’s premier family destination. The season, running from June to August 2024, saw unprecedented footfall and visitor engagement, setting new benchmarks for urban entertainment in Qatar.

Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, stated: “This summer season has been a testament to Msheireb Downtown Doha’s role as a cultural and social hub for Qatar. The remarkable increase in visitors reflects not just the appeal of our events, but the growing appreciation for the sustainable urban living model we’ve created. It’s particularly gratifying to see how our educational and cultural initiatives have resonated with families, reinforcing MDD’s position as a place where heritage and modernity coexist harmoniously.”

The summer season witnessed exceptional growth across all areas of MDD. Overall footfall reached an impressive 2,388,809 visitors from June 16 to August 31, 2024, marking a substantial 73.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Msheireb Galleria, a key attraction within MDD, welcomed 802,407 visitors during this period. While the eco-friendly tram service saw ridership soar to 64,807 passengers, a remarkable 44% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the public’s embrace of sustainable transportation options.

MDD offered a diverse range of activities throughout the summer, starting with vibrant Eid Al Adha Celebrations that featured daily stage performances and a captivating treasure hunt. This was followed by the four-week Skillfest, in partnership with Visit Qatar, Heenat Salma Farm, Dar Salma, The Local Context, and Bluribbon Design Ateliers. Families celebrated Qatar’s rich marine heritage through the photography exhibition by Azzam Al Mannai, in addition to enjoying various workshops, markets and master classes within Skillfest. Other themed areas within Msheireb Galleria, included the Creative Pop-Up Play Zone, Arcade Zone, Maze Zone, and the popular Splash Zone on the rooftop terrace of Msheireb Galleria.

Msheireb Museums played a crucial role in the season’s success, offering a wide array of workshops and activities in partnership with Studio 5 and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Popular sessions included Lego Printmaking, Arabic Calligraphy, and Gypsum Crafts, alongside innovative activities such as 3D printing and solar-powered miniatures. The museums’ blend of education and entertainment resonated strongly with visitors, reinforcing MDD’s position as a hub for cultural learning and creativity.

“The success of this summer season goes beyond mere numbers,” Dr. Hafiz elaborated. “What we’ve witnessed is the power of thoughtfully designed urban spaces to foster community engagement and cultural exchange. From the educational workshops at Msheireb Museums to the nostalgic ‘Back to School’ installations, we’ve created opportunities for intergenerational learning and connection. This aligns perfectly with our vision of Msheireb Downtown Doha as a place where Qatar’s rich past informs and enriches its dynamic present and future.”

The final phase of the summer programme featured a unique ‘Back to School’ theme, recreating vintage classrooms from the 70s, 80s, and 90s in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and Mowasalat. This nostalgic journey was complemented by collaborations with Education Above All, TLC Nursery, Zulal Wellness Resort and Hour & Hour, offering a mix of educational and wellness-focused activities.

As the summer season concludes, Msheireb Properties is already planning future initiatives to build on this success, ensuring that Msheireb Downtown Doha remains at the forefront of urban living and community engagement in Qatar.