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Country Director in Qatar British Council The recent UK–Qatar Forum highlighted deepening cultural and creative collaboration. From your perspective, how does fashion act as a strategic cultural bridge between the UK and Qatar within this evolving partnership?   Fashion is one of the most expressive and powerful ways to connect cultures. It tells stories, preserves heritage, and inspires new ideas. Over the past ten years, the Qatar–UK Festival has shown how fashion can bridge creative communities between our two nations.   Through every edition of the Festival, we have seen how the UK’s strength in design innovation complements Qatar’s growing creative energy and ambition. Fashion allows both countries to collaborate on shared values such as sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural identity. It has become a form of dialogue that reflects who we are and what we aspire to become.   The British Council has been proud to support this exchange for a decade, creating opportunities for designers, educators, and institutions from both countries to engage, learn, and co-create. Fashion continues to stand as a symbol of that enduring partnership between Qatar and the UK.   The British Council has long supported creative economies. How are current UK–Qatar fashion initiatives contributing to leadership development, skills exchange, and sustainable growth within the creative industries in Qatar?   Just like in other areas of the creative economy, the fashion sector in Qatar holds enormous potential for innovation and growth. Through the Qatar–UK Festival, this year’s Fashion Show and VIP Reception showcased that potential beautifully.   It brought together emerging Qatari designers and UK industry experts to explore sustainable design, craftsmanship, and fashion entrepreneurship. The event created an environment where creative exchange was not just about showcasing talent but also about building capacity and inspiring young people to think of fashion as both an art form and an industry.   Across our broader creative economy programmes, we continue to focus on leadership development, mentoring, and skill-building. By connecting Qatar’s emerging designers with UK expertise in creative enterprise, sustainability, and digital innovation, we are helping shape a future where fashion drives both cultural impact and sustainable economic growth.   We are seeing increased visibility of UK designers and institutions engaging with the Qatari fashion ecosystem. What opportunities do you see for emerging Qatari designers to access UK platforms, education, and global networks?   There is a growing ecosystem of collaboration between Qatar and the UK’s fashion communities. For emerging Qatari designers, this means unprecedented access to UK-led training programmes, higher education institutions, and international design platforms.   Through our partnerships, we facilitate opportunities for young creatives to study, exchange ideas, and participate in global fashion conversations. The British Council’s network also helps connect Qatari designers with UK fashion schools, design councils, and mentorship opportunities that broaden their exposure and strengthen their professional growth.   These connections ensure that the collaboration flows both ways. UK designers are equally inspired by Qatar’s cultural narratives, traditional artistry, and creative ambition. This exchange is not just about visibility; it is about creating an ongoing dialogue that continues to strengthen the creative relationship between our two countries.   Cultural diplomacy is a key pillar of UK–Qatar relations. How do fashion and design collaborations reinforce mutual understanding and shared values between both countries beyond traditional cultural sectors?   Fashion and design have a unique ability to build understanding and trust beyond words. They are global languages that blend creativity with identity. When designers from Qatar and the UK come together, they exchange not only techniques and ideas but also perspectives on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.   Through these collaborations, we see culture acting as a bridge for shared learning and mutual respect. Initiatives like the Qatar–UK Festival highlight that cultural diplomacy today is not limited to exhibitions or performances. It also exists in the spaces where creative industries, entrepreneurship, and education intersect.   Fashion reinforces shared values such as curiosity, craftsmanship, and creative freedom. It helps both nations reflect on their histories while shaping a forward-looking vision for collaboration and understanding.   Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of UK–Qatar fashion collaboration, and how can leadership from institutions like the British Council shape long-term impact across culture, education, and innovation?   The next chapter of UK–Qatar fashion collaboration is about building sustainable, connected, and future-ready creative industries. The British Council will continue to play a vital role in this journey by linking education, innovation, and cultural practice.   Our focus is on empowering the next generation of creative leaders through access, mentorship, and knowledge exchange. By connecting Qatar’s creative talent with UK institutions, we aim to build skills, confidence, and resilience in the sector.   In the long term, our goal is to strengthen the ecosystem that supports creativity in all its forms. Whether through fashion, design, digital innovation, or the arts, we see the partnership between Qatar and the UK as a foundation for inclusive growth — one that continues to evolve, inspire, and create opportunities for people to thrive. #DrWaseemKotoub #QatarBritishCouncil

El Bisht Collection   A FUSION OF QATARI HERITAGE WITH A CONTEMPORARY SPIRIT IN THE ROYAL BISHT, ADORNED WITH GOLDEN THREADS AND REFINED TOUCHES, REFLECTING THE ELEGANCE OF A WOMAN WHO SEEKS DISTINCTION AND PRESTIGE. #VintageCoutureLine

Snap Inc. has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the State of Qatar’s Government Communications Office (GCO) during Web Summit Qatar 2026, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening Qatar’s creator, media, and digital communications ecosystem. The MoUs outline a multi-year collaboration focused on creator innovation, digital storytelling, and talent development, positioning Doha as a regional and global hub for the creator economy, advertising, and media excellence. Advancing the Creator Ecosystem Under the first MoU, Snap Inc. and the GCO will explore a long-term partnership to host Snap’s Creators Summit in Doha for three consecutive years starting in 2026. Building on the success of the 2025 Snap Creators Summit which marked the first time the event was hosted in the Middle East and brought together leading creators from the region and around the world, the initiative aims to support the continued growth, visibility, and engagement of Snap’s creator community both regionally and globally. The collaboration will also explore opportunities to further strengthen Doha’s position as a center for creator innovation, culture, and digital storytelling through high-impact programming hosted in Qatar. Strengthening Media, Advertising, and Talent Development The second MoU focuses on developing and strengthening Qatar’s advertising and media ecosystem, with an emphasis on digital media, creativity, and innovation. Planned initiatives include the design and delivery of workshops covering advertising, media strategy, digital platforms, creator-driven storytelling, and industry best practices. The partnership will also apply an  internship and talent development programs aimed at identifying, training, and mentoring emerging Qataris and non Qataris professionals and fresh Graduates in media, advertising, and communications, while supporting the professional development of the next generation of media leaders through practical experience and industry exposure. In addition, the collaboration will promote knowledge-sharing and best-practice exchange between global digital platforms and Qatar’s local media and advertising community. Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing Committee, said: “We are committed to shaping a creator ecosystem that is innovative, globally connected, and driven by talent, in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. As our partnership with Snap Inc. continues to evolve, these MoUs underscore our shared focus on developing human capital, advancing innovation, and enabling the region’s talent through new models for digital media and content creation, reinforcing Qatar’s role in shaping the future of the creator economy at both regional and global levels.” Commenting on the partnership, Hussein Freijeh, Vice President of Snap Inc. MENA & APAC, said: “Qatar has consistently demonstrated a clear vision for building a future-ready digital and creative economy. Through these MoUs, we are deepening our long-term commitment to the country by supporting creators, developing media talent, and sharing regional best practices that help the next generation of storytellers and advertisers thrive. We’re excited to continue working with the Government Communications Office to position Doha as a global destination for creator innovation and digital storytelling.” The MoUs mark another step in Snap Inc.’s continued investment in the region, aligning with Qatar’s national priorities around digital transformation, talent development, and creative economy growth. #MoUs #QatarGovernmentCommunicationsOffice

Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) launched a new collaborative report, 'Industrial Policies for Economic Diversification in Qatar: A Research and Policy Agenda', during a session hosted at the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council Pavilion on 4 February at Web Summit Qatar, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The report outlines a research and policy agenda to support Qatar’s economic diversification ambitions through industrial policy aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3), the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and the Qatar National Manufacturing Strategy 2024-2030. It emphasizes the role of industrial policy in advancing export diversification, productivity growth, innovation, and climate-compatible development, particularly as Qatar works toward its Nationally Determined Contribution target of a 25 percent reduction in emissions by 2030. Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna, said: “Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy offers a strategic platform for targeted industrial policies that advance sustainable economic growth and diversification through priority growth clusters and enabling reforms. To be effective, industrial policy must be co-designed with stakeholders, selective, and institutionally robust. This report lays the groundwork for structured engagement to develop robust programs that build on global best practices to support Qatar’s economic diversification agenda.” Gunther Beger, Managing Director of the Directorate for SDG Innovation and Economic Transformation, UNIDO, said: “Industrial policies can be the engine of a new era of prosperity, one that reconciles competitiveness with sustainability and inclusiveness. To achieve this, we need strong partnerships; governments, private sector leaders, and international organizations working together to mobilize investment, share knowledge, and scale innovation. UNIDO stands ready to support governments and private sector partners in designing policies that enable industries, empower SMEs, and advance technologies for a climate-conscious, sustainable development future. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, amplify impact, and position the Gulf as a hub for sustainable industrialization.” The report explores how Qatar can leverage industrial policy to build on an existing and evolving industrial base, new technologies and manufacturing strategies, and benefit from the income of its vast natural resources. The report also highlights Qatar’s strong vision for economic development as articulated in its National Development Strategies. Qatar’s unique position and financial independence mean it can reinvest its natural resources revenues into the green and blue economy to complement its diversification programs. To enable this shift, the report recommends embedding industrial policy more firmly within NDS3 and increasing the evidence base to help identify priority sectors geared toward international markets and mechanisms for strengthening public-private partnerships. The report also recommends leveraging institutions such as the QRDI Council and the Qatar Development Bank to mobilise investment, scale innovation, and address the skills gaps needed to develop a diversified, export-oriented economy. #QatarFoundation’sEarthna

Doha Design District (DDD) has reinforced its status as the region’s leading creative powerhouse after hosting a landmark week of international art and design activations that positioned Msheireb Downtown Doha at the center of the global cultural conversation. Bringing together world-renowned institutions, international galleries, leading creatives, collectors, and cultural decision-makers, DDD transformed into a dynamic platform for dialogue, exchange, and innovation — underscoring Doha’s accelerating rise as a global destination for art and design. From February 1–7, the district presented “Between the Majlis and the Gallery” at SANAD – DOHA, a curated exhibition that explored the intersection of tradition and contemporary artistic practice. Featuring 15 artists represented by three galleries, the exhibition created a powerful dialogue between the cultural intimacy of the Majlis and the formal architecture of the gallery, attracting VIPs, dignitaries, and key figures from across the creative industries. Simultaneously, Doha Design District hosted Art Basel Qatar from February 5–7, a historic milestone marking the fair’s first-ever edition in the MENASA region (Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia). The event showcased 84 presentations from 87 galleries representing 31 countries and territories, connecting regional artistic production with one of the most influential global art networks. The launch represents a defining moment in Art Basel’s 55-year history and a strategic expansion that reflects Qatar’s sustained cultural investment. By anchoring this global platform within DDD, Doha strengthens its position as a gateway between emerging markets and the international art ecosystem, fostering long-term growth, collaboration, and market development. Throughout the week, thousands of visitors engaged in exhibitions, curated experiences, and cultural programming across the district. As part of the smart and sustainable Msheireb Downtown Doha development, Doha Design District continues to lead with a future-focused model — one that integrates design excellence, creative entrepreneurship, and cross-sector collaboration. Dana Kazic, Director of Doha Design District, said: “We are proud to position Doha Design District as a catalyst for cultural exchange and creative leadership in the region. By hosting globally significant platforms and building strong international partnerships, we are shaping an ecosystem where talent, innovation, and artistic excellence thrive. Our ambition is clear: to elevate Doha as a key destination on the world’s cultural map.” With an expanding calendar of international collaborations and high-impact programming, Doha Design District continues to redefine the region’s creative landscape, setting new benchmarks for design, art, and cultural innovation. The creative district plays a pivotal role in advancing Qatar National Vision 2030 by empowering talent, supporting creative industries, and contributing to economic diversification through culture and innovation. Doha Design District sits at the center of Msheireb Downtown Doha, Qatar’s flagship smart and sustainable urban destination developed by Msheireb Properties. #DohaDesignDistrict

The Media Majlis Museum wrapped up its engagement at Web Summit Qatar 2026 as part of Northwestern University in Qatar’s expanded pavilion programming, engaging international audiences through an interactive exhibition examining the evolving relationship between media, technology, and storytelling.   The Museum was part of Northwestern Qatar’s broader engagement at the Summit, which this year featured an expanded pavilion and a comprehensive program of presentations, live podcast sessions, and interactive experiences.   Over the course of the Summit, the University delivered 57 sessions, including 29 presentations and 28 live podcast recordings. The program brought together 55 contributors, including 35 speakers and 29 podcasters, representing faculty, researchers, students, and collaborators from across the University’s academic and research initiatives.   “Platforms like Web Summit Qatar give us a valuable opportunity to showcase how our research, teaching, and creative work come together around the questions shaping media, technology, and communication today,” said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern University in Qatar. “Through the Media Majlis Museum, in particular, we were able to turn research and curatorial practice into experiences people can step into, engage with, and reflect on, while opening space for meaningful conversations with industry leaders, policymakers, creatives, and innovators, and highlighting the work of our faculty and students.”   As part of its programming, the Media Majlis Museum presented “Media Futures: Memes, Machines & New Realities,” a three-zone interactive exhibition that examines how digital culture, artificial intelligence, and emerging media practices are reshaping contemporary society.   The Meme Zone  explored the circulation and impact of viral culture through a curated selection of global memes. Meanwhile, the Machine Zone  presented 20 real-world case studies demonstrating how artificial intelligence and machine learning are influencing journalism, authorship, and information ethics, prompting consideration of issues related to accountability, authorship, and trust. The New Realities Zone  featured the immersive virtual reality film Remember “This Place: 31°20′46″N 34°46′46″E,” which engaged audiences with narratives of memory, displacement, and belonging.   In addition to the exhibition, the Museum hosted a series of micro-workshops and short-format learning sessions at the pavilion. These sessions addressed topics including media literacy, public storytelling, AI ethics, and digital creation. This includes “Media Futures: Meme, Machine & New Realities” by Alfredo Cramerotti, Director, Media Majlis Museum; “Designing the in-between” by Sjoerd Mol, Designer, Superposition; and “Interpretation Plan to immersive world” by Farouk Essalhi, Digital Multimedia Specialist, Media Majlis Museum.   The Museum also contributed to Northwestern Qatar’s Podcast Studio programming, hosting four episodes. These included conversations led by Cramerotti on Gulf Futurism with Amal Zeyad Ali, Assistant Curator, Media Majlis Museum; Digital and Film Culture in the Public Realm with Daniela Ariado, Curator, Founder of Screen City Biennial and Art Republic Platform; and Media and Art Ecosystems in the Gulf with Auronda Scalera, Curator, Lecturer, Researcher art & technology. In a fourth episode, Jack Thomas Taylor, Curator of Art, Media & technology, Media Majlis Museum, hosted Merve Tabur, Lecturer, University of Utrecht, in a discussion titled Curating as Knowledge.   Reflecting on the museum’s participation, Cramerotti said, “Web Summit Qatar offers a vital platform to reflect on how media, technology, and culture are evolving together,” adding that, “Our participation brings research, curatorial practice, and immersive storytelling into direct conversation with global audiences.”   Through its participation in Web Summit Qatar 2026, the Media Majlis Museum contributed to Northwestern University in Qatar’s broader efforts to engage directly with industry leaders, policymakers, creatives, and innovators, while showcasing work by our faculty and students. #MediaMajlisMuseum

TOD, the region’s leading sports and entertainment streaming platform, is set to bring comprehensive coverage of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 to audiences across the Middle East and North Africa, delivering world-class winter sports action directly to viewers throughout the region. Scheduled to take place from 6 to 22 February 2026, the Milano Cortina Games will unite the world’s top winter athletes across iconic Italian venues, celebrating excellence, resilience, and global sporting spirit. Through TOD, viewers across MENA will have access to live coverage, highlights, expert analysis, and on-demand replays, ensuring fans never miss a moment of the Games. From figure skating, alpine skiing, and snowboarding to ice hockey, biathlon, and speed skating, the platform’s coverage will spotlight both marquee events and emerging stories, bringing the full scale and emotion of the Winter Olympics experience to regional audiences. Commenting on the coverage, TOD reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to premier global sporting events and connecting MENA viewers with moments that inspire and unite fans worldwide. With multilingual programming, seamless streaming, and dedicated Olympics content offerings, TOD continues to strengthen its position as the destination for major international sporting events in the region. #TOD

Msheireb Downtown Doha has wrapped up its winter season as the premier destination for residents and tourists across the GCC, recording 5 million visits since November 2025 until the first week of February. The district has emerged as a go-to winter hub, presenting a mix of art, culture, sports, family entertainment, and community experiences under the theme “In Msheireb, there is a vibe for everyone.”   Residents and international visitors travelled to iconic spaces across the city, including Barahat Msheireb, Sikkat Wadi Msheireb, and Msheireb Museums to participate in the scheduled activities.   A Magnet for Regional and International Travel This winter, Msheireb Downtown Doha became the destination of choice for GCC residents and international travellers seeking an engaging urban experience. The district’s hotels achieved near-full occupancy rates above 95% throughout November, December, and January, with a significant year-on-year increase from 2024 to 2025. This surge was driven by a strong mix of GCC guests and international visitors, confirming Msheireb as one of Qatar's most preferred locations.   Dr Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, stated: “The close of this winter season is a key success for Msheireb Downtown Doha. By uniting sport, global artistry, and Qatari hospitality, we have shown that our district is a place where every visitor can find a connection. Our objective was to create a people-centric urban environment that celebrates our local identity. The extraordinary participation from across the GCC and beyond shows that Msheireb is the place to be during the winter months”   Sporting Spirit and Family Play The season gained momentum in early December to coincide with the excitement of the Arab Cup 2025. The Baraha Premium Fan Zone and Sikkat Wadi Msheireb served as key hubs for football fans, featuring live match screenings and interactive activities that captured the energy of the tournament through community gatherings.   Families also enjoyed Sahat Al Nakheel during the second year of Sweet Sikka, a dedicated Candy Zone with interactive games, while Barahat Msheireb hosted the fourth edition of Baraha Cinema, offering outdoor screenings under the winter sky.   National Celebrations and Creative Programming Mid-December featured citywide activations for Qatar National Day, with interactive installations, live performances, and cultural experiences celebrating the nation’s heritage and unity. In January, the Baraha Musical Concert brought the Al Jazeera Orchestra and Choir to Barahat Msheireb for a two-day outdoor event, blending symphonic grandeur with a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.   Msheireb Museums remained a centre for cultural engagement, welcoming over 70,000 visitors from November through early February. Highlights included the Identities of Perfection exhibition by the late Egyptian artist Hazem El Mestikawy, exploring the balance between architecture and geometry, the Positive Impact Leadership Summit, and a series of educational workshops.   Hosh Msheireb, located in the Company House Courtyard, proved especially popular, offering a boutique glamping experience with cabanas, fire pits, and warm beverages. Its dedicated reading corner became a favourite for families, hosting storytelling and literacy activities throughout January and creating a cosy, welcoming escape from the city’s bustle.   Art Basel Qatar: A Grand Winter Finale The winter season concluded by hosting Art Basel Qatar, the fair's first edition in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA). Presented by Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) and QC+, the event ran through 7 February across M7 and Doha Design District in Msheireb Downtown Doha.   Featuring 87 international exhibitors and 84 artists, more than half from the MENASA region, the fair highlighted solo artist presentations in an open layout, providing an innovative way to experience contemporary art.   By hosting this landmark event, Msheireb Downtown Doha successfully bridged regional tradition and global contemporary art, closing the winter season as a leading creative and cultural destination in the Middle East. #MsheirebDowntownDoha

With a fresh look, modern technology and a more powerful engine, The Mitsubishi ASX adopts the brand’s latest Dynamic Shield front design language with LED headlights and taillights. The fresh rear skid plate is finished in silver to make the ASX seem a bit more rugged, while the front bumper completes the look. Out back, LED taillights work with conventional turn indicators in the reconfigured tail lamps, while a rear fascia and bumper design delete a lot of chrome work and sharpens its visage. Customers can explore the Mitsubishi ASX at Qatar Automobiles Company showrooms at Salwa Road in Doha, and in Alkhor.   Performance The 2.0-liter engine gives all the power needed for all trips. MIVEC technology allows the engine to combine maximum power output, fuel efficiency, and environmental performance. The Maximum Torque of the engine is 197Nm / 4,200rpm generating a maximum Output of 110kW. The ASX features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough roads. Its shock absorbers and stabilizers are finely tuned to deliver responsive handling and a balance of sportiness and comfort. On the road, drivers can choose between 3 driving modes to best match your preferred driving style and road conditions for fuel-efficient driving and outstanding 4WD performance. The engine is teamed with the INVECS-III (Intelligent & Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), ideally tuned to deliver effortless acceleration from any speed. The Active Stability Control system uses onboard sensors to analyze the vehicle’s motion and identify lateral wheel slippage. By governing engine output and applying braking power to the appropriate wheels, ASC system helps to maintain stability and control. In addition, a gear shift indicator in the multi-information display recommends the best shift timing for current driving conditions.   Safety at its Best The Mitsubishi ASX is equipped with plenty of features that enhance the safety measures and ensure the maximum protection of the driver and passengers. These features include Blind Spot Warning (BSW) / Lane Change Assist (LCA) which uses radar sensors in the rear bumper to detect vehicles in rear blind spots, on the right and left sides. An indicator appears in the door mirror when BSW is active, and the turn signals are off. When a vehicle is detected while the turn signal is on, an indicator blinks in the corresponding door mirror and a buzzer sounds. The available 7-airbag system helps protect every passenger in every seat. For protection in frontal collisions, front passengers get front airbags and a knee airbag on the driver's side. In a side collision, front passengers are protected by side airbags while both rows are protected by curtain airbags. When Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is active, an indicator appears in the combination meter display. If radar sensors in the rear bumper detect an approaching vehicle nearby while reverse gear is engaged, a warning message appears in the multi-information display, a buzzer sounds and an indicator blink in both door mirrors.   The T-shaped rear combination lamps have a wide and stable look and feel. The brake lights illuminate independently for better visibility. The ASX is also equipped with Hill Start Assist (HSA) system that makes it easy to start off on a steep uphill slope by preventing the vehicle from rolling backward. When a gradient is detected, it automatically maintains the braking force until the accelerator is applied. When sudden braking is detected, Emergency Stop Signal System helps reduce the chance of a rear collision by automatically flashing your hazards to warn the driver behind.   UTILITY The versatile cargo area is spacious and easy to use for any driver. With up to 358* liters of cargo space available even with 5 occupants inside, you can bring everything you need. The wide tailgate opening and low cargo floor make the loading and unloading of cargo fuss-free for everybody. With the Full-Flat Rear Seat /60:40 Split Foldable Seatback, anybody can easily use the rear seat release buttons and fold down the rear seatbacks to transport bulky or oddly shaped items. Besides, all passengers can enjoy the view from every direction with the panoramic glass roof. At night, the roof is attractively illuminated with LED lamps. Rugged yet sporty, the roof rails accentuate the flowing roof lines of the ASX.   Technology The ASX is equipped with the state-of-the-art technology features. Starting from 8-Inch Display Monitor that makes Navigation and rear-view camera easier to use with the larger 8-inch touchscreen. With Smartphone-Link Display Audio (SDA), you can go where you want, when you want and discover new places and new music. Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) helps you operate map settings, music playback, and calls all with voice actions for a more enjoyable and safer drive. Interaction doesn’t stop here. The ASX presents Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems allowing you to use a number of audios, messaging, voice calling, and 3rd party navigation apps from your iPhone. Passengers can savor the stunning sound quality of an audio system jointly developed with the Rockford Corporation, thanks to nine speakers with spectacular DTS Neural Surround™ sound. With Bluetooth, Hands-Free Kit, Link System you keep in touch while keeping safely in control with the hands-free kit. Link your Bluetooth®-compatible mobile phone, and the voice-activated dialer lets you make calls while holding the wheel. #MitsubishiASX

Art Basel today opens its first-ever fair in the MENASA region (Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia), marking a significant new chapter in its global evolution and for the international art market. Art Basel Qatar , presented in partnership with Qatar Sports Investments (QSI)  and QC+ , takes place across Msheireb Downtown Doha and runs through 7 February . The inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar brings together 87 international galleries , presenting the work of 84 artists -- more than half of whom hail from across the MENASA region. Taking place across M7 and the Doha Design District  in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the fair is structured around solo artist presentations rather than a traditional booth model, offering a more open and focused way to experience the work on view. Under the artistic leadership of Vincenzo de Bellis , Art Basel’s Chief Artistic Officer and Global Director of Fairs, and Wael Shawky , Artistic Director of the inaugural edition, the fair is shaped by the theme Becoming , reflecting a format designed to encourage deeper engagement and to grow in dialogue with its context over time. On the eve of the fair’s first VIP Preview Day, Art Basel and Visit Qatar , the fair’s Lead Partner, celebrated by unveiling SONG , a new site-responsive work by Jenny Holzer  and the tenth work in the fair’s Special Projects program, at a welcome event at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) . The work activated the museum through two simultaneous projections across the main façade and inner courtyard, accompanied by a single, choreographed performance of over 700 drones in the night sky. Using poems by Mahmoud Darwish , the celebrated Palestinian poet whose lyrical voice has profoundly shaped modern Arabic literature, and Nujoom Alghanem , the acclaimed Emirati poet and filmmaker known for her intimate and incisive writing, Holzer brings Arabic and English text into public space as illumination, rhythm, and interruption. Following its debut, the work remains on view to the public nightly as a projection on the museum’s main façade throughout the fair. Representing a defining moment in Art Basel’s 55-year history, the new fair responds to Qatar’s long-standing investment in culture by establishing a platform that connects the region’s burgeoning artistic production with Art Basel’s global network, nurturing long-term growth and exchange across the art market. To learn more about the fair and related programming, including the Galleries sector highlights, Special Projects commissions, Conversations series and more, please visit our press dossier . Art Basel Qatar is open for Preview and Public Days 3 – 7 February. Details of when and how to visit can be found here .   QUOTES Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums said: “Today marks a special moment — one that connects talent and industry, by welcoming the establishment of Art Basel in the Middle East.  This is the beginning of a bold, exciting, and truly unique undertaking — one that merges with and amplifies the cultural and artistic ecosystem we have been building, piece by piece, for the past fifty years. We are here not just to present yet another art fair, but to curate a platform that uplifts the creativity of an entire region, remaining deeply human-centered and humane, and inviting the world to be curious about who we really are, and engage in meaningful conversations.” His Excellency Nasser bin Ghanim Al-Khelaïfi, Chairman of Qatar Sports Investments said: “The launch of Art Basel Qatar marks a historic moment, showcasing Qatar and the Arab world as a place where the world comes together to exchange ideas and be inspired. It also reflects our national vision rooted in creativity, culture, innovation and openness. We are very proud that Art Basel Qatar continues the great legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, alongside many other leading global events in Qatar every year - uniting people through sports, art and culture; and inspiring positive cultural change and understanding all around the world.” His Excellency Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, said: "The arrival of Art Basel Qatar marks an important milestone in Doha’s evolution as a global cultural destination, building on years of investment in museums, creative districts, and international events. As Lead Partner, Visit Qatar is proud to support a platform that places culture at the heart of the destination experience, inviting the international arts community to engage with Doha as a place of dialogue, inspiration, and exchange. This partnership reflects our shared ambition to strengthen creative industries and position culture as a bridge between Qatar and the world." Andrea Zappia, Chairman and Group CEO, MCH Group, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see Art Basel Qatar come to fruition – a hugely important milestone for the Art Basel business and for MCH Group’s wider work across the region and globally. Qatar’s vision and long-standing investment in culture have created fertile ground for entrepreneurship, partnership, and cultural collaboration, and we see extraordinary opportunities across the board. We are honoured to have worked with QSI and QC+ to bring Art Basel’s platform to Doha at this moment and excited for both this inaugural week, and what is to come.” Noah Horowitz, Chief Executive Officer, Art Basel, said: “Art Basel Qatar represents a pivotal moment for our platform and for the global art market. Conceived specifically for this place and developed in close partnership with our Qatari collaborators, the fair reflects the region’s extraordinary cultural ambition as well as our commitment to building platforms that are both locally and globally resonant. By connecting the broader MENASA region more deeply with Art Basel’s international ecosystem, we are creating new opportunities for artists, galleries, and audiences – while advancing a model of growth that is entrepreneurial, inclusive, and built for the long term.” Vincenzo de Bellis, Chief Artistic Officer and Global Director of Art Fairs, said: “With Art Basel Qatar, we wanted to rethink how an art fair is structured and experienced. The multi-site format across Msheireb and the decision to work exclusively with solo artist presentations create a slower, more deliberate rhythm – one that prioritizes focus, context, and return over speed and accumulation. This approach reflects how we believe art fairs can evolve: as platforms that remain commercial, but also offer deeper, more sustained engagement with artistic practice.” Wael Shawky, Artistic Director of the inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar, said: “What interested me about this role was the possibility of an art fair that doesn’t separate the market from education, but understands them as part of the same ecosystem. The open format of Art Basel Qatar allows artists to present complete thoughts rather than fragments and invites audiences to truly encounter the work. In that sense, the fair is not only a place to acquire art, but a cultural platform that can generate long-term knowledge, dialogue, and opportunity for artists.” #ArtBaselQatar

Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) , the global professional services firm known for its action-oriented approach, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Snoonu, Qatar’s leading homegrown technology super app. The collaboration will support the development of Qatar’s high-growth ecosystem through Snoonu’s startup incubator, in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. The agreement was announced during the Qatar Web Summit , taking place in Doha from February 1 - 4, where A&M is participating as a leading partner.   Under the MoU, A&M will act as a knowledge partner to Snoonu’s incubator, providing practical guidance across commercial, financial, operational, investor readiness and technology areas. The collaboration is intended to support startups and rapidly growing companies as they scale and strengthen their operating models.   The partnership brings together Snoonu’s role within Qatar’s technology and startup landscape with A&M’s experience advising founders, investors and public sector organizations on performance improvement and value creation. Unlike traditional advisory models, the engagement will focus on translating strategy into action with an emphasis on capability building and real-world execution.   “Our teams are led by senior operators who have built, run and transformed businesses,” said Colie Spink, A&M Middle East Regional Leader. “Bringing that experience to Qatar’s startup ecosystem will help leadership teams strengthen fundamentals, clear execution bottlenecks and prepare for sustainable growth and investment. We don’t just advise from the sidelines - we lead, we execute and we deliver value. That will be the mindset and approach we apply to Qatar’s startup sector through this partnership with Snoonu.” Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu, noted that the agreement reflects the value of joining forces between complementary partners: “This collaboration brings together two strong organisations with shared ambition to support entrepreneurship in Qatar. By combining Snoonu’s role as a national digital platform with Alvarez & Marsal’s global execution expertise, we will provide founders in our incubator with practical support to build stronger operating models and achieve sustainable growth that contributes to Qatar’s digital economy.”  Qatar’s startup ecosystem continues to strengthen, with the number of startups growing by 13.6% over the past year. Data also shows a 90% increase in local startup participation in international events compared with the previous year. A&M and Snoonu will collaborate to drive further advancements in the startup sector, while jointly exploring opportunities to support the government on digital and technology projects that advance Qatar National Vision 2030.   A&M’s Middle East practice works with governments, sovereign-linked entities, family offices, private equity firms and large corporates across the region on complex, high- impact mandates, including growth, turnaround, transformation, restructuring and transaction support. The firm operates independently and is known for its execution-led approach, supported by on-the-ground teams in key regional markets, including Doha, where A&M established a local office to work more closely with Qatari institutions and partners.   As part of the collaboration, A&M will contribute insights drawn from regional and international mandates, with a focus on areas critical to startup development. These include financial discipline, operational efficiency, scalable commercial models and investor engagement.   The agreement supports broader national priorities under Qatar’s long-term vision, which emphasizes economic diversification and the growth of a knowledge-based economy. By supporting startups at different stages of maturity, the partnership aims to contribute to a more resilient and competitive innovation landscape.   The announcement was made during the Qatar Web Summit , which brings together founders, investors, policymakers and technology leaders from across the region and internationally. A&M’s participation reflects its continued engagement with emerging businesses and transformation agendas across the Middle East. #SNOONU

Msheireb Properties, Qatar’s leading sustainable real estate developer, has announced a key collaboration with Ooredoo Qatar and Honeywell to help automate and manage Msheireb Downtown Doha, one of the world’s most advanced and intelligent smart cities globally.   Unveiled at the Web Summit Qatar event, this landmark agreement introduces a pioneering Artificial Intelligence Powered platform designed to help optimise urban operations and enhance the quality of life for all residents and visitors. Ooredoo has been appointed as the prime partner managing Operations, while Honeywell will customise its City Suite platform to serve as the technology backbone, integrating thousands of sensors from across the city into a single point of control.   The AI-enabled analytics platforms will be designed to integrate operational performance data from the city’s services, while a digital twin of the city infrastructure will enable engineers to model planned updates and reduce system downtime. These elements will be unified into the new AI-powered command center, enabling live monitoring, predictive maintenance, automated incident management and enhanced operational planning through sophisticated data analytics.   The agreement also includes five years of managed services, helping ensure that the Msheireb Downtown Doha Smart City platform continues to evolve. This long-term collaboration, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, supports the country’s emergence as a global hub for digital transformation and sustainable urban innovation   Commenting on the signing, Eng. Faisal Al Malki, Msheireb Properties Chief Operating Officer, said: “This agreement advances our Smart City ecosystem and enhances how we manage and operate Msheireb Downtown Doha. The platform introduces new digital capabilities that improve efficiency, strengthen service quality, and support sustainable urban living. Moreover, this partnership contributes to our district’s evolution in intelligent urban living, enabling technologies that offer tangible benefits to those who live, work, and visit here.”   Hassan Ismail Al-Emadi, Ooredoo Chief Business Officer, added: “This partnership represents a significant milestone in Qatar's digital transformation journey. By combining our strengths, we are creating a blueprint for the smart cities of tomorrow.”   Nabil Cheqroun, Honeywell Building Automation in the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) V ice P resident and G eneral M anager, said:  “Honeywell is proud to help lead this flagship smart city project. Our expertise in large-scale smart infrastructure will help deliver a more secure, energy efficient and digitally enhanced environment for those who live, work and visit Msheireb Downtown Doha.”   Msheireb Downtown Doha is recognised as a unique smart and sustainable city that harmonises heritage values with cutting-edge technology. This collaboration will integrate more than 650,000 IoT sensors, 10,000 automated basement parking spaces—a Guinness World Record for the largest underground parking lot—10,000 CCTV cameras and existing facility management systems covering building automation, utilities, security and emergency services.   The new city management platform will deliver: ●        Smart Operations : Predictive analytics will manage traffic, helping enable better event planning and resource allocation ●        Predictive Maintenance : System alarms will be analyzed to suggest corrective actions before incidents occur, helping increase efficiency for critical services including heating, ventilation, air conditioning and water. ●        Sustainability : By monitoring energy consumption and waste diversion, Msheireb Downtown Doha’s sustainability index will be benchmarked against global standards to help maintain leadership in environmental performance. ●        Customer Satisfaction : Virtual assistants and automated alerts will help keep residents informed of incidents or restoration updates, helping enhance the tenant experience. #MsheirebProperties