Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation have officially launched the ‘Gulf Sustainable Urbanism’ Book, researched and written by Harvard University, during a special event held yesterday at Mshiereb Museums at Msheireb Downtown Doha and simultaneous virtual online platform that broadcasted the event live.

The special ceremony was attended by Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation officials, including Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO, Msheireb Properties, H.E. Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Qatar Foundation Cultural Advisor, DR. Hafez Ali Msheireb Museums Director, Eng. Issa Al Mohannadi, the Chairman of Qatar Green Building Council, and Harvard University professors, along with VIP guests and delegates from the region.

The “Gulf Sustainable Urbanism” Book is an in-depth study sponsored and supported by Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation, researched and written by The School of Design at Harvard University. The research is an outcome of a decade of field research to establish a holistic framework documenting, analyzing, and deciphering the principles of urban sustainability of 10 selected case study cities in eight countries in the Gulf region.

In his opening remarks, Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO, Msheireb Properties, said: “Sustainable buildings are a significant factor in protecting our environment, preserving our natural resources, and reducing water and electricity consumption in the long term. Our region needs such study and analysis as a solid base for the present and the future construction trends. The ‘Gulf Sustainable Urbanism’ Book will be excellent sustainability and urban planning reference for academic institutions, universities, and libraries.  It is a solid foundation to understand the construction and social trends back then and how it impacted the socio-economical aspects. “

“This ground-breaking research knowledge holds the potential to be transformed into useful guidance for making holistic, sustainable decisions for the Gulf region’s future urbanism. Sustainability is a core pillar and value to our company.  It clearly replicates our flagship project Msheireb Downtown Doha, the most sustainable city district in the world”, he added.

In his speaking notes, H.E. Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al Thani, Qatar Foundation Cultural Advisor, reiterated Qatar Foundation’s role in supporting and conducting the research. H.E. stated that the GSU Book meets all the significant needs in documenting a scientific reference in the Gulf region for researchers, experts, and students. He stressed on the Book conclusions’ importance that creates a specific identity and forms for the Gulf architecture.

Eng. Issa Al Mohannadi, Chairman of Qatar Green Building Council and former CEO of Msheireb Properties, discussed how the research focused on the Past period of the cities on the Gulf’s coastal line scientifically and professionally. He reiterated that this Book should be continuously updated and completed to include the Present and Future phases to make it legacy for the coming generations.

Through a live video conference call, Prof. Spiro Pollalis from the University of Harvard talked about the excellent collaboration between Msheireb Properties, Qatar Foundation, and Harvard University to issue this critical Book. At the same time, his colleague Prof. Nader Ardalan stressed on the collaboration with Gulf researchers to obtain the required data, analysis, and findings listed in the Book.

The electronic version of the Book was presented by Prof. Angela Kouveli from Harvard University, who explored the GSU Book main components and scope of research, as well as the best way to explore this electronic version of the Book.

The Gulf Sustainable Urbanism book is available in an electronic version and a special print edition of 900 pages, size 11″ x17″ in two volumes with nearly 1,000 illustrations/analytical diagrams in high-quality graphics.

The GSU book results from more than nine years of research; it started in 2011, with the first phase completed in 2020. The study covers three periods: past, present, and the future. Harvard University has completed the first phase, “The Past,” and released the first part of the Book, which covered ten cities in eight countries bordering the Gulf’s coastal zone: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iran, and Iraq. The study framework was based upon three research topics: (1) Environment/Public Health, (2) Social/Cultural/Economic, and (3) Urban Form/Architecture. These research topics are studied at four ‘scales’: region, city, neighborhood, and dwelling unit.

Following the official launch, a special panel discussion was moderated by prof. John Spengler from Harvard University gathered Ibrahim Jaidah, Group CEO & Chief Architect Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB), Dr. Rogaia Abusharaf, Professor of Anthropology at Georgetown University in Qatar, Dr. Andreas Georgoulias, Harvard University, and Reza Pourvaziry, First Global Advocate of UN-Habitat.

The launch event will be followed by online panel discussions on October 14 and 21 (with two sessions each day) to discuss different topics related to ‘the historic environment, culture, and economy of the Gulf region,’ ‘the development of urbanism, and public health of the Gulf region,’ ‘the traditional neighborhoods and architecture of the Gulf region,’ and a special session titled ‘The study of the past inform future sustainable urbanism in the Gulf.’

For more information and registration, visit: www.gsubooklaunch.com

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundationare are set to launch the ‘Gulf Sustainable Urbanism’ Book, researched and written by Harvard University, during a simultaneous in-person and virtual event to be held on 7 October.

Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation collaborated with Harvard University to undertake a multi-year research study to establish a holistic framework documenting, analyzing and deciphering the principles of urban sustainability of selected case study cities in the region. The launch of the book will bring together experts and professors from Qatar and the wider region, in addition to professors from Harvard University and guests. A unique blended in-person and virtual event will be hosted by Msheireb Properties and held simultaneaously at Msheireb Museums and on a dedicated on-line virtual platform.

Speakers in the session will be Ibrahim Jaidah, Group CEO & Chief Architect Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB), Dr. Rogaia Abusharaf, Professor of Anthropology at Georgetown University in Qatar, Dr. Andreas Georgoulias, Harvard University, and Reza Pourvaziry, First Global Advocate of UN-Habitat.

The launch event will be followed by on-line panel discussions on October 14 and 21 (with two sessions each day) to discuss different topics related to ‘the historic environment, culture, and economy of the Gulf region’, ‘the development of urbanism, and public health of the Gulf region’, ‘the traditional neighborhoods and architecture of the Gulf region’, and a special session titled ‘The study of the past informs future sustainable urbanism in the Gulf.’

Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO, Msheireb Properties, said: “We are proud to launch this important book that provides a comprehensive and in-depth study on sustainable urbanism in the Gulf region and its impact on other aspects of life. Sustainability, which is a core value of Msheireb Properties, \has a huge impact on our present and future. This value is clearly reflected in our flagship development project, Msheireb Downtown Doha, which is an exemplary model of modern sustainable cities. We thank Harvard University for the great effort to conduct this study, which is the main reference for Qatar and the whole Gulf region”.

For watching the live launching event and the following panel discussion, you can register on https://www.gsubooklaunch.com/.

Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation sponsorship and funding of the book reflects their effort in supporting sustainable urbanism and preserving the environment through funding field researches, building strong relationships with scientific and research institutions such as Harvard University, and supporting the studies that have a direct benefit on Qatar and the region. The GSU book is a reference for academic institutions, universities, libraries, and researchers in sustainability and urban planning. This ground-breaking body of research knowledge holds the potential to be transformed into useful guidance for making holistic, sustainable decisions for the future urbanism of the Gulf region.

The Gulf Sustainable Urbanism book is available in an electronic version and a special print edition of 900 pages, size 11″ x17″ in two volumes with nearly 1,000 illustrations/analytical diagrams in high-quality graphics.

The GSU book results from more than nine years of research; it started in 2011, with the first phase completed in 2020. The study covers three periods: past, present, and the future. Harvard University has completed the first phase, “The Past,” and released the first part of the book, which covered eight countries and ten cities bordering the coastal zone of the Gulf: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iran, and Iraq.

For more information and registration, visit: https://www.gsubooklaunch.com/

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Zulal Wellness Resort, the new wellness destination in Qatar developed by Msheireb Properties, has been nominated by the World Spa Awards for the ‘World’s Best New Wellness Retreat Award 2020’. Zulal Wellness Resort will be competing with several top international brands from around the world, thanks to its exceptional health facilities and holistic wellness approach..

‘World’s Best New Wellness Retreat Award’ is one of the most prominent annual awards in the sector. This nomination will enhance Zulal’s position as the largest wellness destination in Qatar, the Middle East’s first full-immersion wellness resort, and the world’s foremost centre for Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM).

Until September 30, members of the public can vote for Zulal Wellness Resort as the ‘World’s Best New Wellness Retreat 2020’ by visiting https://worldspaawards.com/award/world-best-new-wellness-retreat/2020 ; winners will be announced later this year.

Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties, said: “We are honoured that Zulal Wellness Resort has been nominated for such prestigious award with other prominent international brands. The support of the public and spa consumers is an important factor to take this national wellness retreat to the world and position Qatar as the destination of choice for a unique treatment approach that is deep-rooted in Qatar and Arab culture. Zulal Wellness Resort will be a landmark for the region and will boost Qatar’s tourist attractions”.

“We everyone’s support, we hope that Zulal Wellness Resort can achieve global recognition by winning this award for Qatar the people of this great country.”, Al Kuwari added.

The annual World Spa Awards, launched in 2015, is a global initiative to recognize excellence in the spa and wellness sector. By rewarding leading organizations in their respective fields, it hopes to raise standards and foster growth in spa and wellness tourism.. It is the sister programme ofWorld Travel Awards, which has been rewarding excellence in travel and tourism for the last 27 years.

Mr. Khun Krip, Chairman and CEO of Chia-Som International Health Resort, said

“We are delighted that Zulal Wellness Resort, our sister destination, has been recognised with this nomination.  We are confident that the resort will take its place as a world leading wellness destination with its remarkable offerings based on Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM).  The resort will serve   adults only and, separately, families and will bring sustainable wellness to both the local and global clientele,” says Krip Rojanastien, Chairman and CEO of Chiva-Som International Health Resorts.”

Zulal Wellness Resort will be operated by the market-leading wellness organisation, Chiva-Som International Health Resort. The resort is designed after Msheireb Properties’ philosophy for sustainable developments that are rooted in the past but geared for the future. Zulal Wellness Resort takes its name from the Classic Arabic word “Zulal”, referring to “purified water”. It is inspired by the people’s historic journey across land and the ever-present search for water, the seed of life – a concept that encapsulates the history, culture and heritage of Qatar.

The resort’s landscaping has ponds and water features running around serene shaded walled gardens in tribute to the ancient sea-bound travellers finding welcoming shelter in local villages. It will be Qatar’s largest wellness destination, spread across 280,000 square metres, the Middle East’s first full-immersion wellness resort, and the world’s foremost centre for Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM).

Zulal Wellness Resort is located in Khasooma, a northern coastal village one-hour drive from Doha, featuring 120 elegant guestrooms and suites for families, and 60 adults-only suites and villas, welcoming guests of all ages and needs. A special menu has been created of Arabic and Mediterranean wellness cuisine, as well as beautiful architecture and wellbeing services inspired by local heritage, will make it a valid showcase of traditional and modern Qatari culture.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Properties, the leading sustainable real estate developer in Qatar, is reiterating its commitment to supporting the global effort to protect education through spreading awareness of the first ‘International Day to Protect Education from Attack’ event celebrated in Qatar and the world on September 9.

To mark the occasion, Barahat Msheireb at Msheireb Downtown Doha has been decorated with laser lights and colours to celebrate the event.
Besides, a giant billboard of Msheireb Properties and Qatar Academy-Msheireb management has been installed at the place to raise awareness and support the local global efforts to protect education from attack.
The current campaign is part of Msheireb Properties’ social responsibility to support the initiatives of the Education Above All Foundation, which endeavours to secure quality education for all children, especially at the times of wars and conflicts.

Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties Ali al-Kuwari stated: “Msheireb Properties is proud to support this new global initiative in Qatar to protect education from attack. It is celebrated for the first time and reiterates Qatar’s humanitarian message to the world. Our contribution today at Msheireb Downtown Doha is to raise awareness in the community about this critical issue to reflect our commitment to the broader community.”

He added: “We would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to Education Above All Foundation, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the chairperson, for shedding the lights on this issue and make it global attention.”
The General Assembly of the United Nations took a resolution establishing 9 September as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
The resolution, called for by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Education Above All and UN Sustainable Development Goals Advocate, and spearheaded by Qatar, aims to garner global advocacy to ensure accountability for the continued and deliberate attacks on education and the prevalent armed violence experienced by children worldwide.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Downtown Doha, the smartest and most sustainable city district in the world, will reopen retail and dining outlets to visitors from July 1, 2020, in accordance with Phase 2 of gradual lifting of restrictions announced by the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management (SCCM).

Visitors can access 40 stores, restaurants and cafes at MDD, in addition to restaurants and lounges in the three hotels: Park Hayat, Mandarin Oriental and AlWadi Hotel. The Food and beverage outlets will provide take away and delivery services, along with dine-in option at a decreased capacity to maintain safe distancing.

Mr. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties said: “We are delighted to announce the reopening of retail and dining outlets in our landmark project Msheireb Downtown Doha. All operating outlets on-site will adhere to the precautionary and preventative measures outlined by the authorities. We look forward to welcoming visitors again to enjoy our facilities in a safe and comfortable way.”

Msheireb Properties released several precautionary measures that must be followed, such as the wearing of masks at all times, maintaining social distance, following hygiene practices, and complying with security in the area.

Additional measures to enter the stores and F&B outlets include showing the Ehteraz app green code, undergoing body temperature checks and maintaining safe distance. For this purpose, F&B outlets redistributed furniture to limit the seating capacity. Customers are also encouraged to pay using credit cards rather than cash.

Msheireb Downtown Doha is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, reviving the old commercial heart of the city through a new architectural language. The environmentally conscious development blends traditional Qatari heritage and aesthetics with modern technology. From design and planning, to the delivery of infrastructure and transportation, through to improving overall lifestyle, the city aims to provide a place where it is enjoyable to live, work, shop, visit, and spend time with family and friends.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable property developer, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Siemens W.L.L., to offer the latest smart city solutions within Msheireb Downtown Doha.

Utilising technology as the main tool for business during these unprecedented times, the agreement was inked through a virtual signing ceremony by Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties, and Adrian Wood, C.E.O, Siemens W.L.L. The virtual signing ceremony, which was adopted in light of Msheireb Properties commitment to social distancing and taking precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, was attended by representatives of the media.

As part of the MoU, Siemens W.L.L. will offer the latest and most advanced smart services and solutions in building digitalization, car E-charging stations, installation of low consumption traffic lights, and outdoor air quality measurements. The Siemens services will also focus on energy optimization and performance, site-wide fire alarm, secure smart spaces and offices.

During the signing ceremony, Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties said: “We are very pleased to sign this MoU with Siemens  to supply Msheireb Downtown Doha with the latest smart solutions. We were keen to offer our residential and commercial customers the most up to date facilities, powered by the latest innovative technologies that meet the highest international standards”.

 “This MoU is an important step forward for intelligent, data-driven infrastructure in Qatar and will pave the way for a truly smart city in Downtown Doha,” said Adrian Wood, CEO of Siemens in Qatar. “I look forward to collaborating with Msheireb Properties on this exciting project and supporting Qatar’s Vision 2030 by driving sustainable economic development through technology and knowledge transfer.”

Msheireb Downtown Doha, the smartest and most sustainable fully-built city district in the world, uses technology to provide an extraordinary and seamless experience for residents, businesses, professionals, and visitors. The city district is the flagship project of Msheireb Properties and  is the first downtown regeneration project to embed smart city technology and connectivity. From design and planning to the delivery of infrastructure and transportation, through to improving overall lifestyle, the city delivers smart solutions to improve the lives of its residents. The objective of Msheireb Downtown Doha is to provide a place where it is enjoyable to live, work, shop, visit, and spend time with family and friends. Through an integrated suite of data platforms, IoT systems & digital applications, Msheireb Downtown Doha will advance resident experience, social interaction, and quality of life with greater care for the urban environment.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

In part of its continuous effort to adopt innovative ways of communication and reflecting current restrictions on social distancing, Msheireb Properties, the leading sustainable real estate developer in Qatar, has recently launched a new service that allows customers to virtually explore the new Al Khail apartments at Msheireb Downtown Doha from the comfort of their living rooms.

The new digital initiative revolves around the customer journey of exploration and creating an immersive luxury experience for the customers. Consumers can go on virtual tours of the apartments with 360-degree viewings that reflect a real sense of immersiveness that is as close to viewing the property in person.

Commenting on the launch of the new service, Mr. Ali Al-Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties, said: “Customer needs across the country are rapidly changing. With the advancement of digitization, Msheireb Properties has developed new ways to utilize technology that best meets the needs of the consumer and makes life easier while also adhering to life in a post-COVID-19 world. Those looking to have an enhanced lifestyle at Msheireb Downtown Doha can now easily explore our new Al Khail apartments through virtual tours without the need to leave their homes.”

“The new virtual tour for Al Khail apartments is part of our strategy to use technology for creating practical solutions that make customer experiences easy and safe. Our offerings can now be perused with the single click of a mouse,” Al-Kuwari added.

Al Khail apartments are located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the flagship project of Msheireb Properties and the smartest most sustainable fully-built city district in the world. With different areas and facilities available for viewing, customers can tour the apartments, move around the rooms, hallways and balconies, utilize virtual measuring devices to calculate spacial measurements,  and check the various amenities. The apartments are available in 2-bedrooms of different areas, 3-bedrooms furnished, 3-bedrooms Duplex, and 4-bedroom apartments.

Additionally, the 360-degree viewing experience is available for Al Khail Courtyard, an open space garden for tenants, equipped for family gatherings.

Msheireb Downtown Doha, the flagship project of Msheireb Properties, is a smart and sustainable city that aims to change the current trends of urban developments and change the lifestyle of people and offer a new way to live, work, and entertain. Msheireb Properties has won numerous prestigious regional and international awards in the areas of sustainability, smart cities, and architecture.

To try Alkail apartments virtual tour, visit https://www.msheireb.com/alkhail/

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable real estate developer, has added a new achievement by winning the first place in GCC Award for Municipal Cooperation in its third session 2020.

The win was announced on the back of approving the minutes of the meeting of the GCC Award for Municipal Cooperation Jury held in February 2020 at the GCC headquarters in Riyadh. Choosing Msheireb Properties for the first place was based on its compliance with allocating requirements for people with special needs and following the highest international standards for their access, movement, and transport at Msheireb Downtown Doha.

The new gem in Msheireb Properties crown highlights the state of Qatar’s position on the regional level, and cements Msheireb Downtown Doha as one of the best sustainable and smart cities, and the favorite destination for all sections of the community to live, work, and entertain.

In his remarks on the win, Mr. Ali Al-Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties said: “Msheireb Properties has taken constant steps to cement its position in the region and across the world as a leading sustainable developer which adopts highest standards of building in all fields. We are proud of this new accomplishment and provision of high-quality services thanks to  unique capabilities which put us at the top of urban developments in the region. This is a source of pride to Qatar and reaffirms our abilities to build urban cities that best fit people with special needs”.

Msheireb Downtown Doha is an ideal destination for people with special needs, providing them with special services in all fields including employment, education and transportation. There are ample open spaces allowing them to enjoy all the facilities easily and smoothly. Adopting the measures of the American with Disabilities Act law ADA 2010 to secure suitable environment for people with special needs, Msheireb Downtown Doha gives utmost attention for the special paths, intersections, reception areas, shopping facilities, automatic control for building services, parking and others.

The natural views and landscaping were also developed with keeping people with special needs in mind. This include interactive pedestrian signals, easy access to car parking, control gates and ramp slopes at each sidewalk.

The road planning at Msheireb Downtown Doha reflects the culture and values of the Qatari society, with special attention to details and the adoption of measures that facilitate the life of people with special needs.

Msheireb Downtown Doha, the flagship project of Msheireb Properties, is a smart and sustainable city that aims to change the current trends of urban developments and change the lifestyle of people and offer a new way to live, work, and entertain. Msheireb Properties has won several regional and international awards in the field of sustainable and smart cities.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Doha, Qatar, 19 February 2020:

Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable properties developer, and Qatar Universitytoday signed a memorandum of understanding in the area of Smart Cities. The signing ceremony took place at Msheireb Downtown Doha by Mohammed Essa Al Boainain, Acting Chief Officer – Design and Delivery at Msheireb Properties, Prof. Mariam Ali Al-Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies Office, and Dr. Abdelaziz Bouras Pre-Awards Manager at Qatar University, in the presence of high representatives from the two parties and media.

The agreement between the two parties will act as a basis for a collaboration framework on research methods and exchange of experience in the area of smart cities. According to the agreement, both parties will also exchange related information via various platforms including newsletter, journals, studies, statistics and other data that assist them deliver quality projects.  The cooperation also comprises any other possible respective fields that are of mutual interest of both parties, in addition to conducting mutual researches and studies and holding conferences, meetings, and training.

Mr. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting CEO of Msheireb Properties said: “Msheireb Properties always endeavors to build partnerships with local organizations to share its expertise in many fields. As the smartest and most sustainable fully-built city district in the world, we are glad to formalise this agreement with Qatar University to provide students with detailed information and practical experience in the area of smart cities. Msheireb Downtown Doha is now a case study for local and international organizations as the first and largest smart and sustainable downtown regeneration project, which changes the way people think about urban living and leverage from the smart technology on our daily life. It also enhances the image of Qatar across the world as a leading country in smart and new urban building”.

Prof. Mariam Al-Maadeed, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies at Qatar University, stated: “This agreement establishes the societal role of the Qatar University and raises the level of exchanging experiences and skills, especially in the field of smart cities with Msheireb Properties. Qatar University is proud to be a major contributor to applied research projects and providing results that are in line with meeting the needs of society and the industrial sector. It also highlights the commitment of Qatar University to provide research based on addressing contemporary challenges in the State of Qatar, by developing effective and sustainable solutions.”

Msheireb Properties is exchanging its experience in smart and sustainable developing by building partnerships with local and international entities and to enhance the mission of changing the way people think about urban living. The leading Qatari developer also aims to improve People’s overall quality of life, through innovations that encourage social interaction, respect for culture, and greater care for the environment. This agreement is one of many partnerships that Msheireb Properties is building to share its experience in the field of smart cities.

Pause Play Play Prev | Next

Doha, 31 December 2019

Msheireb Properties, the national real estate developer and subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, announced yesterday the launch of the much anticipated Msheireb Tram. The new Tramway connects all Downtown Doha, the world’s smartest and most sustainable city district, and the first sustainable downtown regeneration project worldwide.

Manufactured by the US-based TIG/m, LLC, Msheireb Tram adopts the latest in eco-friendly transportation technology with options and conveniences that makes it also an accessible method of commuting within the downtown area for people with special needs.

With 9 stations, Msheireb Tram interconnects all of Msheireb, making it easier for visitors to move from one spot to the other making the city a truly walkable and environment friendly city. Visitors, residents, and tenants can find a tram car on the loop every six minutes, with a 400-meter hop-on/hop-off zone along the single 2 km, closed-loop track system.

The self-powered environmentally friendly tramway depot is Platinum LEED certified. It is made up of three one-deck, high-tech, electric streetcars, which are fully air-conditioned, incorporating special light-filtering glass panels which prevent over 90% of the heat from sunlight.

The modern high-tech streetcar also includes many advanced features making it a convenient and safe method of transportation for passengers, such as: level boarding at all stations; a hop-on-hop-off service in Wadi Msheireb area; Virtual Tram Detection and tram priority at the traffic signals, tram arrival signs in real-time on the trams and at the passenger stations, on-board CCTV, and on-board Wi-Fi.

The Msheireb Tram also includes a unique open-air feature allowing it to be operated as an open-air car by removing the glass panels.

Ali Al Kuwari, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Msheireb Properties said: “It is a great way to end a year full of success, with the launch of the Msheireb Tram. We hope that this sustainable way of commuting will encourage more people to leave their cars behind. The tramway is very user friendly, cost effective, suitable for everyone, and I am confident that our visitors and residents will find it very convenient.”

Msheireb Tram links all areas of Msheireb Downtown Doha within 18 minutes, with a station at the Central Msheireb Metro Station, where everyone can access Qatar Rail’s all three operating metro lines.

The MDD trams run on standard gauge track (1,435 mm) and are custom designed and handcrafted to the highest standards of excellence while adhering to European Standards for Tramway Safety.

Msheireb Tram goes through nine stations; Sahat Al Nakheel Station, Wadi Msheireb Station, Galleria Station, Msheireb Prayer Station, Heritage Quarter Station, Al Baraha Station, Sahat Al Masjid Station, Al Kahraba Street Station, and Al Mariah Street Station giving everyone multiple points of access to the tramway.