Msheireb Properties to Showcase its Flagship Project “Msheireb Downtown Doha” at Cityscape Qatar 2018

Doha, Qatar; 17 April 2018:

Msheireb Properties (MP), the leading real estate development company and a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation for Education, Sciences and Social Development, will participate at Cityscape Qatar 2018 this month to showcase its flagship development, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), the pioneering regeneration project in the Doha’s historical commercial centre.
The pavilion will include access to MP’s masterplan of the project, detailed through three large-scale models highlighting MDD in all its splendour. For the first time viewing for the public, one of the three models include a large-scale replica of Barahat Msheireb, MDD’s large open public square, that boasts the largest retractable outdoor roof in the Middle East.
Two of the four hotels at MDD will be present on the pavilion highlighting their upcoming hospitality offerings; the internationally acclaimed hotels, Al Wadi Hotel Doha by MGallery and the Mandarin Oriental. Novo cinemas will also be present in MP’s booth, where a mini-cinema environment has been replicated, where visitors can view MDD’s latest fly-through video in luxury, style and comfortable VIP seating.
MP’s participation at this year’s event is highly anticipated as new residential, retail and commercial offerings will be revealed, as well as additional hospitality prospects.
In addition, MDD’s first residential tower will be presented to prospective tenants and customers. It will offer its residents unparalleled views across the water to the West Bay with a mix of 1-4-bedroom apartments, featuring state-of-the-art smart home technology, in Qatar’s most upcoming desirable neighbourhood.
Mr. Ali Al-Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties, said: “2018 is the year of activation for Msheireb Downtown Doha. We’re delighted to participate at Cityscape Qatar 2018 as it provides us with a platform to showcase the latest achievements of Msheireb Downtown Doha. We are thrilled to announce to the public that residential, commercial, and retail leasing opportunities are available to discover now.”
With a variety of residential, retail and commercial options available within MDD, Msheireb Properties will present investment opportunities to attract retailers and companies. MP will provide them with leasing and sales options that best suit the most luxurious fashion brands, cafes, restaurants and recreations that include kids zone, mall, amongst others.
Al-Kuwari continued; “The residential and commercial buildings, retail outlets and restaurants, hotels, the tram and other facilities are just getting the finishing touches to be ready to welcome our new tenants and visitors. We are proud to say we are accomplishing our goals and are on schedule for Msheireb Downtown Doha. Upon completion, the city will redefine the style of living and working in Qatar and indeed, the region. Now the local and international community will be able to see first-hand our pioneering smart city initiatives set in MDD’s sustainable urban development.”
On completion, MDD will be the world’s largest certified sustainable and smart downtown community with 100 mixed-use buildings, 800 residential units, more than 300 retail units and 17 commercial buildings, in addition to four hotels, a school, 3 mosques, the Galleria Mall and many other retail stores set in a high street environment and the much-admired Msheireb Museums. Mixing elements of traditional heritage with the latest smart city technology provides a unique experience to those that live in, work and visit MDD, reviving the historical commercial heart of Doha in line with Qatar’s 2030 National Vision.
Held in Doha Exhibition and Conference Center from 22nd to 25th April, Cityscape Qatar 2018 will be held under the patronage of HE the Prime Minster, Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani. The event brings together real estate professionals, including investors, developers, architects, designers, governmental authorities, who will come together to explore the exhibition and conference to close profitable real estate transaction.

“Msheireb Museums” in Cooperation with UCL Qatar MA Students are Organizing ‘We are the Daughters of Qatar’ Exhibition

Doha, 10 April 2018

UCL Qatar Masters students on the Museum and Gallery Programme have partnered with Msheireb Museums to curate the ‘We are the daughters of Qatar’ exhibition that explores the topic of Qatari womanhood.

Starting from 11 April until 9 May 2018, this exhibition tells the stories of Qatari women whose lives were transformed as a result of the discovery of oil. ‘We are the daughters of Qatar’ takes place at Musheireb Museums, the new cultural destination that reflects the history of four heritage houses, which are located in the heritage district of Msheireb Downtown Doha. With its unique location in Msheireb, these houses reflect a historical background of Qatar and provide a cultural space for exchanging ideas and enriching dialogue about the past and the future.

 

Through the perspectives of grandmothers, mothers and daughters of Qatar this exhibition explores what has changed and what has remained the same in women’s lives. At the heart of this exhibition are the personal encounters of three generations of Qatari women as we examine their memories and ideas concerning education, career, fashion, crafts and art and celebrate these resilient and inspiring Qatari women.

The MA in Museum and Gallery Practice is designed to help shape future generations of museum professionals and cultural leaders in Qatar and beyond. The exhibition project is one of the core modules the MA students undertake each year in a museum where they have conceived, curated, designed and installed the exhibition. Furthermore, the students bring to life their new knowledge and skills by delivering museum outputs to a high professional standard. UCL students on the MA in Museum and Gallery PracticeThe exhibition forms part of UCL Qatar’s aim to bring light to Qatari history, creating a sense of national relevance through its programmes.

Talking ahead of the exhibition, Lejla Niksic, MA student, said: “Our aim is to understand what kind of lives Qatari women have lived in the personal, familial, and professional sphere. We hope it will strengthen the female narrative in the storytelling of Qatar’s development.”

She continued: “Being a part of UCLQurates, a yearly student-led project, helps me to not only grow professionally but also to actively contribute to the development and innovation of the sector. Students at UCL Qatar play an active role in engaging all elements of the community to build appreciation, awareness and understanding of Qatar’s cultural heritage and traditions”.

There will be a series of events organised for the public. Family activities include a Treasure Hunt, a Family Mood Board event encouraging conversations amongst family on 14 April and an interactive and fun craft workshop on 21 April. All welcome.

Mr. Hafiz Ali, Director of Msheireb Museums, said: “Msheireb Museums is committed to developing exhibition content to tell our nation’s stories’ and build bridges between new generations and the heritage and history of our ancestors. ‘We Are Daughters of Qatar’ exhibition is a truly unique and special tribute to Qatari women who have played a major role in the transformation process of our country. I’d like to thank the UCL Qatar for helping deliver this premier exhibition”.

 

As well as displaying objects such as dresses, artefacts, and oral history, students will facilitate multisensory engagement that will activate the visitors’ sense of smell using traditional Bokhoor. Community engagement activities will be held to create a memorable and participatory exhibition where the community will be engaged in content creation.

The exhibition will be open from the 11thof April until 9thof May to the public at the temporary galleries at Company House, Msheireb Museums. For more information about this exhibition please visit http://uclqurates.squarespace.com/

Msheireb Museums library receives 2017 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report from the U.S. Embassy in Doha

Doha, Qatar, March 2018: Msheireb Museums, the new cultural destination situated in Doha’s Msheireb Downtown, today was presented an addition to its library called the U.S. Department of State’s 2017 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report from the U.S. Embassy in Qatar.

The report will become a significant part of the Msheireb Museums Library, specifically Bin Jelmood Heritage House, which provides a space for reflection on the story of slavery and how it has evolved into modern forms of human exploitation. Comprising four Heritage Houses, of which Bin Jelmood is one, Msheireb Museums serves as an essential reference on the history of Qatar for students and researchers.

The TIP Report showcases Qatar’s progress in the protection of human rights and the fight against human trafficking. Bin Jelmood House provides an opportunity for visitors to make a personal commitment to joining the fight against the various forms of human trafficking.

Hafiz Ali, Director of Msheireb Museums said, “It is our honour to receive here today the Trafficking in Persons Report which fully aligns with our effort to tackle the unjust treatment of human beings. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for presenting our library with this report, as it will no doubt serve as a valuable resource to students and researchers alike, who seek further information Qatar’s ongoing efforts to eliminate human trafficking.

“Msheireb Museums plays a vital role in raising awareness on such topics, and will continue its effort alongside other partners to shed light on topics that are so critical to our history. The protection of human rights is something our leadership strongly believes in, and our government is taking all the necessary actions to ensure the rights of everyone in Qatar remain secure on par with international standards.”

Representing the U.S. Embassy was Chargé d’Affaires Ryan Gliha, who personally presented the report to Director of Msheireb Museums, Hafiz Ali.  Mr. Gliha remarked:  “The United States’ collaboration with Qatar to fight human trafficking is the closest it has ever been. The memorandum signed between U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and His Excellency the Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Than captures our commitments to combat human trafficking.” On behalf of Msheireb Museums, Mr. Ali noted:   “It is our honor to receive here today the Trafficking in Persons Report which fully aligns with our effort to tackle the unjust treatment of human beings. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for presenting our library with this report.  Msheireb Museums plays a vital role in raising awareness on such topics…the protection of human rights is something our leadership strongly believes in, and our government is taking all the necessary actions to ensure the rights of everyone in Qatar remain secure on par with international standards.”

The TIP Report, is an annual report issued by the U.S. State Department’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. It is the world’s most comprehensive resource of governmental anti-trafficking efforts and reflects the U.S. Government’s commitment to global leadership on this key human rights and law enforcement issue. It represents an updated, global look at the nature and scope of human trafficking and the broad range of government actions to confront and eliminate it.

Located within the oldest part of the capital, Msheireb Museums form an important part of Qatar’s national history and Doha’s new Msheireb Downtown. The reconstructed buildings and gallery spaces allow the community to engage in the significant aspects of Qatar’s past and life before the country’s rapid economic development.

The ‘Night of Ideas’: Msheireb Museums and Institut Français du Qatar Host Global Design Seminar

Msheireb Museums, the new cultural destination located at Msheireb Downtown Doha, in partnership with Institut Français du Qatar, hosted the ‘Night of Ideas’ yesterday (25th January), under the theme: ‘Power to the Imagination: DOHA 2022 – PARIS 2024.’

Launched by the Institut Français in 2017, the ‘Night of Ideas’ is a global project staged simultaneously around the world, from Tokyo to Los Angeles, from Stockholm to Johannesburg, where people gather to celebrate ideas. This year, Msheireb Museums brought together design leaders at Bin Jelmood House to join 41 other cities across five continents taking part in the global innovation initiative.

The event welcomed four expert Arab and European panelists who discussed with the audience three discussion points; ‘the main challenges facing urban areas in Doha and Paris,’ ‘how major events can help shape cities,’ and lastly, ‘if public spaces can humanise cities’.

The panelists included; Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, Group Chief Executive Officer, Chief Architect, Arab Engineering Bureau; Dr. Ali A. Alraouf, Professor of Architecture and Urbanism, Head of Research and Development at QNMP- Doha; Pierre Alain Trévelo, Architect (DPLG – National School of Architecture–Marne-la-Vallée) and urban designer (MDesS – Harvard GSD), founder with Antoine Viger-Kohler of Paris based international architecture and urban design office TVK; and Stéphane Lecler, Deputy director of urban planning for the City of Paris.

Commenting on the event, Mr. Hafiz Ali, Director of Msheireb Museums, said: “We at Msheireb Museums are proud of hosting this global event in partnership with Institut Français du Qatar. The ‘Night of Ideas’ helped create a platform to discuss art and design issues and provide creative solutions. The evening was a tremendous success and we would like to thank everyone who took part in the dynamic and engaging debates.”

Mr. Olivier DESEEZ, Counsellor for cooperation and cultural affairs at the French Embassy, Director of the  Institut Français of Qatar, said: “The goal of the Night of Ideas (‘La Nuit des idées’) is to celebrate the stream of ideas between countries, cultures, topics and generations. Every year, the Night of Ideas gives the opportunity to discover the latest discoveries in knowledge and arts, to listen to the ones who contribute to bring more ideas to their field, and to take part in the discussion about the main issues of our times. In Doha we are celebrating the imagination displayed by urban planners in the buildup of spectacular  urban transformations in two cities,  both hosting major global  events in the coming years.“

Located within the oldest part of the capital, Msheireb Museums form an important part of Qatar’s national history and Doha’s new Msheireb Downtown Doha. The reconstructed buildings and gallery spaces allow the community to engage in the significant aspects of Qatar’s past and memories of life before the country’s rapid economic development. Designed as a safe space to converse and inspire dialogue, the hosting of the ‘Night of Ideas’ seminar is part of Msheireb Museums ongoing efforts in bringing the community together to create a positive creative space.

Msheireb Museums makes the Royal Institute of British Architects’ World’s Best New Building List 2018

Msheireb Museums, the new cultural destination located at Msheireb Downtown Doha, has been included on the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) long list of world’s best new buildings. Sixty-two buildings from 28 countries have made the list – including Msheireb Museums – and are now in the running to win the RIBA International Prize 2018.

The RIBA International Prize 2018 will be awarded to a building which exemplifies design excellence, architectural ambition and delivers meaningful social impact – all qualities which are encapsulated in the Downtown Doha museums project, and which ensured its recognition by the leading global architectural competition. The RIBA list highlights the world’s best buildings and outstanding architectural talent in the RIBA International Awards ceremony, which takes place every two years, selecting the best architectural designs from around the world. The award is presented in eight categories, including public buildings, private offices, places of worship, houses, museums, residential buildings and designs that respond to natural disasters.

Mr. Abdulla Al Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer of Msheireb Properties, commented on the inclusion of Msheireb Museums on the RIBA International Prize 2018 list: “We are proud of this great achievement. It reflects our ongoing commitment and the collective efforts we have made in creating the four heritage houses in the Msheireb Properties flagship project, Msheireb Downtown Doha. After years of research and architectural and engineering studies, and with the participation of institutes from around the world, we have succeeded in developing an architectural method that took insights from the past and combined them with present-day technologies and thinking, to achieve a new, distinctly Qatari architectural language.”

Al Mehshadi added: “The inclusion of Msheireb Museums within the Royal Institute of British Architects International Prize list is proof of their important status worldwide, and the unique approach that Msheireb has taken in the museums’ development and in the development of Downtown Doha as a whole.”

Msheireb Museums are located within the Msheireb Doha Downtown project, developed by Msheireb Properties. The Heritage Houses, commonly known as the Bin Jelmood House, the Company House, the Mohammed bin Jassim House and the Radwani House have transformed the Heritage Quarter at Msheireb Downtown Doha and created an important cultural destination within the development. The four courtyard houses have been converted into culturally significant museums, cultural centres and exhibition buildings. Rooted in local history, these courtyards and spaces showcase important aspects of Qatar’s history and memories of old Doha.

Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading real estate developer aims to enrich the lives of both individuals and communities – encouraging more sustainable and environmentally responsible behaviour, while offering a better understanding of the local and regional heritage through its unique lifestyle and environment.

Bespoke Qatari Café and Retail Shop wins Msheireb Downtown Doha competition to open on iconic Al Kahraba Street

‘Antarnash’ is a unique fusion dining concept steeped in Qatari culture and history, with a touch of modernity

Msheireb Properties (MP) and Qatar Development Bank (QDB) have announced the winning concept behind their exciting SME competition to create a bespoke Qatari café and retail shop at Msheireb Downtown Doha. The new Qatari-inspired café and retail shop will open its doors offering a fusion concept steeped in the rich culture and heritage of Qatar, complete with local produce and flavours, but with a touch of modernity.

The café and retail shop will be located on the historic Al Kahraba Street in Msheireb Downtown Doha, which is home to, picturesque boutiques, history museums, art and culture, and dining options, proving the ultimate retail and lifestyle destination.

Delivering a full brand identity as part of the competition, the winning concept ‘Antarnash’ is inspired by one of Qatar’s old mining stories. ‘Antarnash’ was the Qataris early interpretation of the word ‘International’, which referred to the vehicle transporting local oil workers to the oil fields – a concept at the heart of the nearby world-class exhibition by Msheireb Museums at Company House. This museum tells the story of the pioneering Qatari petroleum industry workers and their families, who helped transform Qatar into a modern society. The café and retail shop, taking inspiration from this, will specialise in traditional Qatari food, desserts and pastries, with a modern twist both in taste and appearance. It will also incorporate nuances of the Company House Museum in its theme, through the decoration and staff uniforms.
Mr. Abdulla Hassan Al Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer at Msheireb Properties, said, “We are honoured to announce “Anternash” as our Al Kahraba Street retail competition winner. It is a fantastic opportunity for a startup to bring its unique food and beverage concept to life in what will soon become a vibrant downtown retail and hospitality destination. As a supporter of local development, this partnership is a measure of our ongoing contributions towards national economic diversification and competitiveness. We thank QDB for their kind support and look forward to further projects in the future.”

On this occasion, Mr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al Khalifa, CEO of Qatar Development Bank, said: “Our support for the ‘Antarnash’ (International) Café’ project is in line with QDB’s strategy to provide all types of support available to successful SMEs, by enabling them to establish and grow their presence in the local marketplace, as well as helping them boost their competitiveness and launch into global markets. In doing so, we are integrating with the State’s relentless efforts to diversify the economy and empower youth to participate in the economic development of Qatar. We believe in the importance of building a knowledge-based economy that will contribute to the achievement of the Qatar National Vision 2030.”

Al Kahraba Street in Msheireb Downtown Doha will bring back to life Doha’s iconic, downtown bustling high-street, as part of the landmark regeneration project. Msheireb Downtown Doha will be home to a diverse retail mix, offering an array of bespoke mall, high street shopping and picturesque boutiques. Situated in the heart of the city, the 31-hectare mixed-use development will set a new retail benchmark offering visitors access to art and culture, entertainment, and exciting new dining options to become Qatar’s ultimate must-visit destination.

“Msheireb Properties” Hosts The Annual Risk Management Forum For The Sixth Consecutive Year

Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation for Education, Sciences and Society Development, held its 6th Annual Risk Management Forum at Bin Jelmood House part of Msheireb Museums in Msheireb Downtown Doha. Under the theme – ‘Managing Risk and Opportunity in Challenging Times’ – the forum featured industry experts from high profile Qatari institutions to share their experiences of managing the risks and developing opportunities presented by recent diplomatic tensions.

Hosted annually by Msheireb Properties, the Risk Management Forum has grown a reputation for effectively predicting and confronting the most prevalent threats facing organisations and the global business community. This year’s guest speakers included Mr. Khalid Abdulla Al-Mana Executive Director of Business Finance of Qatar Development Bank, Ms. Aysha Al Mudhahka, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Business Incubation Centre, Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Mulla, ASTAD Chief Commercial Officer and General Manager of ASTAD International , Mr. Mohamed Eisa Al Buainain, Senior Director (Projects) at Msheireb Properties, and Mr. Aarn Wennekers, Advisor, Audit and Corporate Governance at the Ministry of Energy and Industry and Qatar Petroleum.

Commenting on the forum, Mr. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer of Msheireb Properties, said: “Given the spotlight on the recent diplomatic tensions in the region, it was imperative we address issues of real concern to businesses and the people in Qatar. The pertinence of the issues certainly engaged speakers who addressed the forum and provoked a lively debate amongst the audience. Only through proactive engagement can we achieve positive outcomes. As a result of the forum, I hope we are all better placed to manage the risks and utilise new prospects from the current situation.”

Al-Mehshadi added: “The Forum represents Msheireb Properties’ continued commitment to enhancing the social and economic dynamism, cultural heritage and quality of life in Qatar. Over the past six editions of the forum, it has developed into the premier risk management symposium in the Gulf, which leverages best practice from a diversity of industry leaders to mitigate risk, set benchmarks, establish standards, and nurtures the evolution of a progressive and productive business culture.”

This year’s event was attended by a large cross-section of business and risk management experts from a variety of industries and backgrounds including: auditors, consultants, engineers, contractors, IT experts, oil & gas executives, project and program managers and real estate developers. This diversity was reflected in the agenda where topics included; External Risks and their Management – A Real Estate & Construction Perspective, Managing risk as a start-up or local entrepreneur, Mitigating Risks of tomorrow – A focus on Contract Management, and Risk and Resiliency – Lessons Learned. The forum also included an engaging panel discussion titled, Managing the risks and opportunities surrounding the ongoing trade embargo.

Msheireb Properties’ mission is to

support the wider aims of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 by changing the way people think about urban living and improving their overall quality of life through innovations that encourage social interaction, respect for culture, and greater care for the environment. Their projects improve the lives of both individuals and communities – encouraging more sustainable and environmentally responsible behaviour, and a greater understanding of local, regional, and international heritage and history through immersive experiences.

Msheireb Properties wins big at 2017 Qatar Sustainability Awards

Diwan Annex Building And Cultural Forum Awarded For Exceptional Standards In Sustainable Practices

Doha, Qatar, 30th October 2017: Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable developer and a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation for Education, Sciences and Community Development, bagged two coveted awards at the 2017 Qatar Sustainability Awards, held on 29th October.

Msheireb Properties’ flagship project, Msheireb Downtown Doha, was recognised for the exceptional standard of sustainability practices across Diwan Annex Building, which won for ‘Green Government Building,’ and Cultural Forum in the category of ‘Green Commercial Building.’

Qatar Sustainability Awards recognise the efforts, commitment, and contributions of individuals, institutions and organisations in furthering sustainable development and environmental protection in Qatar and beyond.

Mr. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, CEO, Msheireb Properties, said: “Msheireb Properties is honoured to receive two awards this year, at the highly anticipated and respected Qatar Sustainability Awards. This reflects our unyielding commitment to protecting the environment and preserving natural resources. It also serves as a major win for our team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly toward achieving the highest standard of sustainable practices, across all buildings and facilities in our projects.”

“Msheireb Downtown Doha is the first truly sustainable regeneration project from its inception and all our buildings ensure optimal consumption of water and energy. Through adopting the highest standards of sustainability practices, we hope to pave the way for other developers to follow suit and adhere to measures set by the Qatar Green Building Council. It is our goal to help Qatar realise its National Vision 2030, by taking great strides in sustainability practices within the real estate sector,” added Mr. Al-Mehshadi.

The two Msheireb Downtown Doha facilities were lauded for their use of non-potable water, considerable energy and water saving, rainwater recovery and on-site renewable energy generation. Some of the features include energy efficient building design with recessed windows, energy recovery of outside air entering the building, optimised ventilation using carbon dioxide (CO2) detectors, and a high efficiency district cooling plant.

Sustainability is central to Msheireb Downtown Doha’s conservation of natural resources and quality of design. The building designs include thicker walls and orientation, which enables them to benefit from the shade of adjacent buildings, provides natural cooling and reduces the need for air-conditioning. Furthermore, the adoption of the latest, cutting-edge technology enables Msheireb Properties to produce renewable energy, monitor electricity use, and make the most efficient use of water, all of which translate to reduced emissions, energy and water usage, and waste production.

 

QGBC and sponsors announce Qatar Sustainablility Week 2017

Held Under The Patronage Of His Excellency The Prime Minister And Minister Of Interior Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Bin Khalifa Al Thani

Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), held a press conference on Tuesday at Msheireb Museum announcing the second edition of Qatar Sustainability Week (QSW), held under the patronage of his Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Nasser Bin Khalifa Al Thani, which will be taking place from 28 October to 4 November.

QSW is an initiative by QGBC and aims to actively engage Qatari public and private sector organizations in a wide range of sustainability-oriented activities. QSW aims to foster a culture of sustainability amongst residents and visitors, as well as promote engagement from members of the community. This is in line with ultimately achieving the global sustainability goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Contributing to the organization of Qatar Sustainability Week this year are Msheireb Properties as Platinum Sponsor, Arab Engineering Bureau as Conference Sponsor, Tadmur Holding as Awards Sponsor, Atelier 101 as Technology Sponsor, Intelligence Qatar as Knowledge Sponsor and Frame Qatar, Report Sponsor.

Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, QGBC Director, said: “With less than a week to go, we’re excited about the second edition of QSW and look forward to welcoming a wide range of stakeholders showcasing their activities that contribute towards our nation’s environmental protection and sustainable development goals. We’re honored to have our esteemed sponsors join us at this press conference; we anticipate a very successful week filled with events and it is not too late for organizations to register their planned activities with QGBC.”

Mr. Abdulla Hassan Al Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer at Msheireb Properties said: “Incorporating sustainability and green building practices within new developments is now an integral part of all future urban planning. Green Buildings act as long-term environmental solutions, helping to reduce the negative impact of society on our planet and excessive consumption of energy resources. This is achieved through utilising renewable resources efficiently and through smart technologies.”

Al Mehshadi continues; “At our flagship project Msheireb Downtown Doha, Msheireb Properties adopted the highest standards of green and sustainable buildings from its inception, along with advanced technologies that aim to save energy and water; two key elements identified as contributors towards global warming. These standards have enabled Msheireb Downtown Doha to achieve the world’s largest number of LEED accreditation buildings in energy efficiency and environment. Our participation in the annual Qatar Green Building Council Conference this year and our platinum sponsorship to Qatar Sustainability Week’s activations and events, reflect our ongoing commitment to enforcing industry standards, by encouraging their adoption across Qatar’s flourishing construction pipeline. Achieving this will lead to a collaborative approach to achieving Qatar’s National Vision 2030 environmental pillar and most importantly, to create a better living experience for Qatar’s future generations.”

AEB Quote

Tadmur Holding CEO, Dafer Hallawa, said: “We are proud to partner with QGBC on 2017 Qatar Sustainability Week and present Evergreen, our LEED Gold certified building in Lusail as a testimony of Tadmur Holding’s commitment to establish a benchmark on sustainable practices in the construction industry aligned with Qatar National Vision of 2030. We firmly stand for taking a leap on sustainable actions today as the best legacy for future generations. As a pioneer of green practices in the private sector in Qatar, it is an honor for us to sponsor the Sustainability Awards Ceremony along with QGBC to reward and encourage local companies to join these endeavors.”

Managing Partner at Atelier 101, Charles Vincent, commented on their participation as technology sponsor saying: “The world is driven by change enabling new opportunities and new challenges. As we believe in innovation, A101 brings the benefits of technology to businesses of all sizes that wish to perform and operate in a more efficient and sustainable way; embracing transformation and servicing a better tomorrow.”
Tracey Kohinga, Managing Director of Intelligence Qatar commented on the occasion saying: “Intelligence Qatar is proud to be the knowledge sponsor of Qatar Sustainability Week 2017 and the Green Building Conference. By better understanding attitudes and perceptions towards sustainability, we can develop effective strategies to achieve greater sustainability in all aspects of our life which is critical to our success, both individually and as a nation.”
Elaborating on their collaboration for Qatar Sustainability week, Asterios Chalkias, Strategic Planning Director at Frame Communications said, “Frame believes in sustainable and practical living. So, when we were approached by the organisers, we were keen to take up their request to design the QSW report. The designs that we have produced for the initiative reflect both QSW’s and Frame’s commitment to the community we live and work in. We are proud to be associated with an event that not only promotes green, sustainable lifestyles, but also enhances the growth and development of Qatar in a way that preserves the country’s natural resources and energy reserves for the coming generations.”

The week-long event is set to host a number of activities including a bridge building competition, a photography competition, a beach and desert cleanup as well as the renowned Qatar Green Building Conference and Qatar Sustainability Awards.

To join or register for Qatar Sustainability Week 2017 please visit the QGBC website at this link: www.qatarsustainabilityweek.com/outreach/qsw/

 

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Opens New Exhibition ‘A Journey to the Heart of Life’

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Msheireb Properties, officially inaugurated a new permanent exhibition titled ‘A Journey to the Heart of Life’, located at Bin Jelmood House at Msheireb Museums.

In line with Her Highness’s vision, the exhibition is a collaboration between Msheireb Museums and biomedical research institutions including Qatar Genome Programme, Qatar Biobank, Sidra Medical Research Center and Weill Cornell Medical College.

The exhibition focuses on DNA and includes six sections that give visitors an opportunity to explore genetic inheritance and prehistoric human migrations. It aims to further guests’ understanding of the advances in modern medicine and genomics, and its capacity to help with early detection of disease, as well as creation of personalised medicine.

Visitors use interactive and audiovisual displays to understand how leveraging genetics, genomics, and observations from the past, can uncover Qatar’s rich cultural and historic heritage.
The exhibition looks at the process of understanding genetics and genomics, and how that is reflected in the history of humanity. It tells a story of migration and integration across the earth, revealing the scientific underpinnings of our common humanity by advances in genetic research, and how this knowledge is being used to make us healthier as a society.

Mr. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, CEO of Msheireb Properties said: “Msheireb Properties is committed to supporting our community’s development and contributing towards the goals of QNV 2030. Through this exhibit, we support innovations in education and showcase Qatar’s leading position in scientific research to benefit humanity. We would like to extend our great thanks to all those involved in creating this fascinating exhibition, particularly Her Highness for her continuous support and wise vision.”

Mr. Hafiz Ali, Msheireb Museums Director said: “‘A Journey to the Heart of Life’ is the latest addition in our internationally acclaimed exhibits at Msheireb Museums. It completes the four-heritage house permanent collections, designed to tell the history of our land and people, and the journey to modern-day Qatar. In this scientific and historical exhibit, visitors will enjoy the unique, dynamic and interactive exhibition experiences visitors have come to love at our exhibits. This opening is intended to help our nation understand the origins of our people and how the mapping of human development can help its citizens today, and in the future.”

Dr. Asma Al Thani, Chair of the National Genome Committee, Vice Chairperson of the Qatar Biobank for Medical Research Board of Trustees and Dean of the college of Health Science at Qatar University said: “This exhibition was created to showcase the cultural and social diversity of Qatar and how this affects genetic traits. Genetic diversity is a gateway for science to understand societal differences, and as such Qatar Biobank and Qatar Genome Programme is focused on research to develop personalised medicine. This will ultimately help create healthier lifestyles in the future to decrease serious diseases and potential hereditary medical issues. This exhibition launch is part of a common vision shared with Msheireb Properties to create a better future for our country.”

Dr. Lotfi Chouchane, professor of genetic medicine, microbiology and immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College, said: “’A Journey to the Heart of Life’ is original and unique, not just for Qatar but around the world as it combines seamlessly both culture and science. The science presented in the exhibition is complemented by historical and cultural factors that define human migration to Qatar. It also highlights local excellence in medical research, the importance of healthcare based on human diversity, and how this can be used to implement precision medicine locally.”
Dr. Rashid Al Ali, Deputy Chief Research Officer and Division Chief – Biomedical Informatics at Sidra Medical and Research Center said: “I feel privileged and honoured to be part of this landmark project. It has been captivating to look at the roles of DNA and human migration, and its effect on Qatar’s population. The exhibition is as unique as DNA itself and it gives me great pride Qatar is leading the way with such initiatives. As an exciting, stimulating and challenging undertaking, the true triumph of finalising this exhibition is taking a highly complex subject and presenting it into a language we can all understand.”

Dr. Ena Wang, Research Chief, Division of Translational Medicine at Sidra Medical and Research Center commented: “DNA is the origin of all living creatures. Genomes are the most organized of DNA that are inherited from our parents, so its study is critical to understanding their role in health and pathophysiologic conditions. This exhibition is Her Highness’s vision and is designed to provide knowledge that leads to scientific interest, paving the way for implementing genome guided (precision) medicine in Qatar.”

Major advances in the fields of genetics and genomics have not only corroborated what we can observe from history – the diversity of Qatar’s origins – but have also opened a path to a hopeful future in prevention and cure of many genetic diseases.

‘A Journey to the Heart of Life’ is presented by Msheireb Museums in Bin Jelmood House in the heritage Quarter of Msheireb Downtown Doha. The exhibit opens its doors from Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm, Friday from 3pm to 9pm, and Saturday from 9am to 9pm. For more information about this exciting new exhibit or Msheireb Museums, please visit: www.msheireb.com.