December 25, 2017
‘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.