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

Media Experience the First Official Test Drive of the iCAUR V27 on Qatar’s Roads: During a premium event held at The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Power Line Motors was officially announced as the authorized and exclusive iCAUR dealer in Qatar. The arrival of iCAUR to the Qatari market signals a shift in the premium SUV landscape, blending a rugged, go-anywhere spirit with an almost obsessive attention to luxury.   To further cement this vision, Power Line Motors invited motoring journalists, industry insiders, and influencers to an exclusive test drive of the iCAUR V27 on Qatar’s roads, giving them the opportunity to experience the SUV’s luxurious appeal and cutting-edge innovation firsthand.   Further demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region, Power Line Motors also announced that one of the largest iCAUR showrooms in the Middle East will open in Qatar in 2026, as part of a wider showroom network that includes Msheireb—the heart of Doha. In addition to the iCAUR V27, Power Line Motors will introduce other models to the Qatari market this year.   The all-new flagship mid-to-large SUV features advanced Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology, thereby revolutionizing the market and heating up the local motoring scene. The boxy, off-road SUV is designed to bridge the gap between traditional power and electric efficiency, thanks to its front-mounted 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which serves as a dedicated generator to maintain battery levels, while high-output electric motors drive the wheels.   This smart setup enables the 5-seater SUV to deliver a combined 449 hp and 640 Nm of torque, achieving 0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds for the Dual E-Motor AWD versions with a 34.3 kWh battery. With a total range of 1000 km, the iCAUR V27 is designed to support both daily city commutes and longer journeys without compromise.   While the exterior design is bold and muscular, the all-new iCAUR V27’s interior exudes luxury, refinement, and modernity. This premium SUV is equipped with a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 15-speaker audio system, automatic air conditioning, electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, a 64-color ambient lighting system, 48 storage compartments, and a dedicated mobile app for remote access and control, among many other features.   Commenting on the iCAUR’s entry to the Qatari market, Salman Abdullah Al-Abdulghani , Chairman of Power Line Motors, said: “The arrival of iCAUR in Qatar is not just a new chapter for Power Line Motors, but a milestone for the Qatari automotive landscape. With iCAUR, we are not just selling cars—we are delivering the next era of transportation. We are confident iCAUR will quickly become the benchmark for its class.”   Mr. Abdulghani Abdullah Al-Abdulgani, Vice President of Power Line Motors, also said “iCAUR was founded on the belief that excellence and accessibility should not be mutually exclusive. This new presence in Qatar is a beacon of that promise, ensuring our groundbreaking vehicles and customer-first approach are available to a dynamic and forward-thinking market. We are ushering in a new standard of automotive craftsmanship, with unwavering dedication to innovative engineering and uncompromising quality.”   Mr. Abdullah Abdulghani Al-Abdulgani, Board Member of Power Line Motors, also commented on this occasion: “Our vision has always been about empowering the next generation of drivers and innovators. With the arrival of the iCAUR brand in Qatar, we saw an opportunity to inspire young automotive enthusiasts with technology that blends sustainability, performance, and forward-thinking design.”   The Power Line Motors’ COO, Ihab Elfeky, emphasized the brand experience, stating: “Our mission is simple: to make the iCAUR purchasing and ownership experience as revolutionary as the cars themselves. This dealership is designed to be a sanctuary for our customers—a place where world-class service meets state-of-the-art technology, and we are ready to earn the trust of this community. The launch of iCAUR in Qatar represents the culmination of years of dedicated work, and the journey truly begins here. Our vehicles deliver a unique blend of performance, sustainability, and design, and we invite everyone to experience firsthand the difference that a brand built on integrity and passion could offer.” #iCAUR

From Player Milestones to Future Goals, Qatar Polo Club’s National Polo Story Unfolds at Interactive Booths Qatar Polo Club (QPC), the national hub of polo excellence, will mark Qatar National Sport Day with an interactive presence at Katara Cultural Village and Stadium 974, promoting active lifestyles and community engagement while making polo more accessible to a wider audience. The initiative reflects the Club’s long-term commitment to nurturing local talent and inspiring the next generation of players. Through dedicated booths at both locations, Qatar Polo Club will showcase the Club’s activities, player pathways, and professional polo environment, while also sharing its vision and development roadmap for the 2026 season. Visitors will be able to learn more about the sport, meet members of the polo community, and explore how the Club is working to build a sustainable future for polo in Qatar. Commenting on the commemoration, Ashraf Abuissa - Chairman, Qatar Polo Club, said “National Sport Day is a meaningful occasion for us to connect with the community and share our passion for polo. At Qatar Polo Club, our focus is on long-term development building skilled players while fostering a strong polo culture in Qatar. The progress we’ve seen over the past year is encouraging, and we look forward to continuing our investment in youth, women’s participation, and international exposure for our players.” The 2025 season marked a series of milestones for the Club, including the continued success of its player development program and the debut of four players at Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025. QPC players also gained valuable international exposure through friendly matches in Oman and Saudi Arabia, as well as participation in Polo in the Park in London. These landmark moments have set the stage for a more ambitious 2026 season for the Club. Looking ahead, Qatar Polo Club will continue expanding its pool of potential players, preparing for the launch of its Summer Academy in London this June, and working toward debuting additional local female and junior players at Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2026. Qatar Polo Club’s National Sport Day activations will be supported by visual displays and live engagement moments, capturing the spirit of sport, teamwork, and horsemanship that define polo. #QatarPoloClub

Msheireb Museums and Sidra Medicine hosted the first Science Café session of 2026, marking the third year of their collaboration to bring scientific knowledge closer to the public. The session, titled Stem Cells in Precision Medicine: From Research to Reality, took place at Bin Jelmood House, Msheireb Museums, on Wednesday. Attracting a full house of over 100 attendees, it provided an engaging public forum that demystified the science of stem cells and their contribution to modern medicine.   The session offered a thorough overview, guiding the audience from foundational concepts to the forefront of clinical applications. Experts led attendees through the journey of how stem cell research translates from laboratory discoveries into tangible, regulated therapies, offering potential treatments for chronic and genetic diseases.   Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, said: “This is the third year of our Science Café collaboration with Sidra Medicine, and it is encouraging to see the partnership continue to bear fruit, offering the public unique access to cutting-edge science. Events such as this make knowledge approachable and inspire curiosity across all age groups. At Msheireb Museums, we connect world-class research with the community, providing the public with direct access to scientific dialogue and updates on developments shaping our future.”   Dr. Sahar Da’as, Research Manager at Sidra Medicine and lead of the Science Café initiative, added: “Stem cells hold immense promise in medicine, from understanding disease mechanisms to developing regenerative therapies. Our goal was to move beyond complex terminology and share a clear, hopeful narrative about how our work at Sidra Medicine is contributing to the global field of precision medicine.”   The two-hour session featured interactive discussions, encouraging engagement between the panel and the audience. Key topics included the fundamental biology of stem cells, current applications in clinical practice such as transplantation, and the pathway from laboratory research to regulated patient care. Ethical considerations, patient safety, and realistic expectations for stem cell therapies were also addressed, providing a comprehensive view of the field.   Speakers and panel experts from Sidra Medicine shared their expertise and answered audience questions throughout the session. Among them included: Dr. Sara Abdulla, Senior Research Programme Manager – Biomedical and Health at the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, who moderated the discussion; Dr. Chiara Cugno, Acting Chief Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and BMT and Director of the Advanced Cell Therapy Core at Sidra Medicine; Dr. Essam M. Abdelalim, Principal Investigator – Associate Level at the Laboratory of Pluripotent Stem Cell Disease Modeling at Sidra Medicine; Dr. Mohammed Ghaly, Professor of Islam and Biomedical Ethics and Head of the Research Center for Islamic Legislation & Ethics (CILE) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University; and Dr. Mohammed Shaker, Scientist at the Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University.   The Science Café initiative has become a cornerstone of Msheireb Museums’ programming, supporting an ongoing effort to connect science and society. By creating spaces where research is presented in accessible language, the programme aims to spark curiosity, increase understanding, and inform the public about developments shaping the future of healthcare. #MsheirebMuseums

First-ever Klipsch integration delivers immersive, high-fidelity sound to the Patrol cabin experience Nissan is raising the benchmark for in-cabin audio with the debut of the Klipsch® Premium Audio System on the all-new iconic Patrol in the Middle East. For the first time, selected variants of Patrol, including top-grade Patrol V6T Platinum, Patrol PRO-4X and Patrol NISMO will be available with the 12-speaker Klipsch system, engineered and tuned exclusively to deliver an immersive, high-fidelity sound experience. Developed in collaboration with Panasonic Automotive, the Klipsch sound system delivers rich, detailed audio through a 12-channel, 600-watt amplifier. Engineered to fill the Patrol’s spacious cabin with balanced power, the system ensures every passenger enjoys clear, dynamic sound, whether in the front or back seats, on city drives or off the beaten path. Tuned specifically for the Patrol by Klipsch and Panasonic engineers, the system reproduces every frequency with precision, from crisp highs to resonant lows. One-inch titanium tweeters add sparkle to vocals and instruments, while powerful mid-bass drivers and a dedicated subwoofer create the depth and impact of a live performance. Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President and President, Middle East, KSA, CIS and India – Nissan and INFINITI, said: “For decades, the Nissan Patrol has stood as a symbol of strength, sophistication, and regional pride. With every evolution of the Patrol, we look for ways to enhance the in-cabin experience without compromising on what driver’s value most, capability, comfort, and control. The introduction of the Klipsch Premium Audio System reflects that thinking. It brings a new level of clarity and immersion to the Patrol’s interior, turning sound into a core part of the drive.” Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., commented, “In Qatar, the Nissan Patrol is part of everyday life, from family journeys to long desert drives. Introducing the Klipsch Premium Audio System adds a new dimension to that experience, where sound is felt as much as it is heard. The clarity, depth, and balance of the system transform the cabin into a refined personal space, enhancing comfort without distracting from the Patrol’s renowned strength and versatility. It is a meaningful upgrade that aligns with how our customers use and value the Nissan Patrol in Qatar.” The acoustic foundation immerses every passenger in a concert-like atmosphere. Advanced audio equalization delivers consistent clarity and depth, so the listening experience remains rich and balanced through all 12 speakers. Complementing the Klipsch experience is a meticulously crafted cabin that combines comfort with innovation. Quilted leather seating with NASA-inspired spinal support technology ensures lasting comfort, while a panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space and light. The Patrol also features a striking 28.6-inch horizontal Monolith display with twin 14.3-inch touchscreens up front, alongside dual 12.8-inch rear entertainment screens, creating an atmosphere that is connected, inviting, and refined. The Patrol’s interior is matched by a commanding exterior and powerful performance. Its bold proportions and sculpted lines reinforce the SUV’s unmistakable presence on the road, while advanced engineering ensures capability across every terrain. At its heart is a choice of two V6 engines including an all-new 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission for exceptional power and efficiency, engineered to elevate on-road refinement and off-road confidence. Technology and connectivity take center stage in the Patrol line-up with NissanConnect 2.0 featuring Google built-in, giving drivers access to navigation, entertainment, and voice assistance directly from the SUV’s Monolith display. Enhancing the experience further is the upgraded MyNissan app, which now debuts a global-first Ownership feature in the Middle East, simplifying everyday interactions and keeping owners connected to their vehicle anytime, anywhere. The Nissan Patrol line-up with the Klipsch Premium Audio System is now available at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.  - the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar.  Joining the flagship Patrol are two distinct variants that cater to diverse lifestyles: the race-inspired Patrol NISMO, with a specially tuned twin-turbo V6 delivering 495 horsepower alongside enhanced aerodynamics and motorsport styling; and the adventure-ready Patrol PRO-4X, engineered for exploration with a rugged design and all-terrain capability. For more information, visit Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.  - the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar - showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505. #Nissan.

INFINITI has revealed the 2026 QX60 in Dubai, marking its regional premiere as the brand’s latest expression of modern Japanese luxury. The model arrives with a renewed sense of presence, shaped by the brand’s Artistry in Motion  design direction and brought to life through fresh details that elevate both style and performance.   Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.,  commented, “The QX60 has consistently resonated with customers in Qatar who value refined design, advanced technology, and everyday versatility. With the refreshed 2026 model and the introduction of the first-ever QX60 SPORT grade, INFINITI is responding directly to the evolving expectations of the local market. This update strengthens the QX60’s position as a premium family SUV that balances comfort, performance, and contemporary luxury—qualities that are especially important to Qatari drivers.”   Evolved Exterior Design The QX60 features a refined grille inspired by the intersecting shapes of a tranquil bamboo forest, complemented by an illuminated three-dimensional INFINITI emblem. A redesigned lower bumper creates a floating effect around the grille, enhancing visual lightness. The daytime running lights now reference the digital piano key signature seen on the QX80, while the rear looks lower and wider thanks to cleaner contours on the liftgate and rear fascia. Stylish 20-inch wheels come standard, and the color palette is highlighted by the introduction of a Deep Emerald, a nature-inspired shade that adds a sophisticated depth to the exterior.   Debut of the First-Ever QX60 SPORT Grade Making its first appearance in the region, the QX60 SPORT grade delivers the model’s most expressive look to date. It features a unique front fascia, a sharpened grille mesh, gloss black 20-inch wheels, and dark exterior accents. The design is completed by a new lower front bumper protector and a distinctive “S” badge on the liftgate.   A Cabin Designed Around Comfort and Connection Inside, the QX60 offers a spacious three-row cabin crafted for comfort and intuitive use. The latest evolution introduces available Google built-in for seamless navigation and connectivity, alongside an upgraded Klipsch Premium Audio system with 16 speakers, including headrest speakers for the driver. Key technologies include the AroundView Monitor with Moving Object Detection, the Smart Rear View Mirror, and ProPILOT Assist. A large touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and customizable drive settings enhance convenience for everyday driving.   Confident Performance The 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 engine delivers 279 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, offering smooth and responsive performance. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the model includes standard paddle shifters for added control.   With one of the top four segment shares across the Middle East, the QX60 remains a cornerstone for INFINITI in the region. The 2026 evolution builds on this foundation, introducing thoughtful refinements, including the first-ever QX60 SPORT grade, that speak to the brand’s continued push toward a more modern, emotionally resonant form of luxury.   For more information, visit Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.  - the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar - showrooms on The Pearl and Salwa Road, or call 8000505. #INFINITI

Education unfolds through art, dialogue, and hands-on practice at Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum Each year, the International Day of Education – marked on 24 January – offers an opportunity to explore how learning takes place across different settings. Alongside formal education systems, cultural and public spaces are increasingly part of this landscape. Museums have become spaces where this broader view of learning is made visible. Through immersive experiences, dialogue, and creative practice, they create environments in which learning unfolds through exploration. In Qatar, this role is evident within Education City, where cultural institutions sit alongside schools and universities as part of a wider educational ecosystem. Here, Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, founded by Qatar Foundation and honoring the iconic modern artist Maqbool Fida Husain, approaches education through an enduring relationship with art as a form of learning. Its Learning and Outreach Program, launched last month, is centered on time spent in the galleries, where guided observation and dialogue provide the starting point for learning. Participants then move into practical workshops shaped by what they have seen and discussed. Designed for all ages, the program includes school visits, family sessions, and public workshops. These activities complement classroom learning through visual exploration, storytelling, and creative projects."Education through art is not about delivering fixed answers," said Jowaher Al Marri, Manager of Communications Outreach at Qatar Foundation. "It is about creating optimal conditions for curiosity, interpretation, and independent thinking. Museums offer a different kind of learning space where people are encouraged to slow down, question what they see, and build meaning through observation, conversation, and creative response." School groups visit the museum to extend classroom work, looking at Husain's use of movement and then experimenting with their own gestural drawings. On weekends, family programs bring multiple generations together, creating shared spaces for adults and children to inspire one another with their own perspectives. Learning at the museum is encouraged through discovery and is designed as a process rather than a one-off encounter. Younger children are introduced to visual language through activities focused on color, shape, movement, and mark-making, while older participants engage with more complex themes such as identity, memory, urban life, and abstraction. Across age groups, workshops encourage participants to translate observation into action, allowing art to become a tool for expression, interpretation, and shared discovery. The museum's educational work extends beyond its regular programming. An ongoing collaboration with Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art brings together art, wellbeing, and interdisciplinary practice through workshops and public discussions running throughout January, including a panel with artists, healers, and clinicians exploring mental health through creative practice. Through initiatives such as its collaboration with Mathaf and its ongoing workshops, the museum demonstrates what the International Day of Education emphasizes: that learning should be open and meaningful for everyone. Museums like Lawh Wa Qalam are growing in importance, showing how art can help people learn in thoughtful, creative, and truly human ways. For more information about the Learning and Outreach Program of Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, visit https://lawhwaqalam.org.qa/ , and follow on Instagram at @lawhwaqalam. #QatarFoundation

His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Head of State and Supreme Commander of Qatar Armed Forces, inaugurated the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre. The opening ceremony was attended by His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, along with a number of Their Excellencies ministers, ambassadors, heads of delegations and naval commanders, as well as representatives of the exhibiting companies participating in the event. His Highness toured several international exhibiting companies and major international pavilions, as well as national companies and entities, including the pavilions of the Qatar Armed Forces participating in the exhibition. In his opening address, His Excellency Major General (Sea) Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, stated: “The convening of the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) comes at a time of rapidly evolving events affecting our region and many other parts of the world. This underscores the growing importance of defence exhibitions, which provide armed forces with the capabilities they require to carry out their duties and safeguard their sovereignty and security. DIMDEX 2026 responds to these needs by presenting comprehensive defence innovations, particularly in the maritime domain, alongside the latest complementary and support systems that contribute effectively to the work of the armed forces and other relevant sectors.” His Excellency further noted that the event serves as a key platform bringing together thought leaders, experts, academics and military commanders to discuss issues and developments related to maritime defence and security. This is achieved through the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, which reflects the State of Qatar’s vision of relying on diplomacy as an effective means of resolving various crises and conflicts, and of adopting the principle of joint cooperation among states to achieve shared objectives. Speaking further about the event, His Excellency added: “DIMDEX 2026 is being held over four days under the theme ‘A Global Hub for Defence Innovations – Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow, with broad participation from leading international, regional and national companies, as well as a record attendance of official VIP delegations. Accordingly, the event represents a valuable opportunity for exhibitors and participants alike to maximise the benefits it offers, whether in terms of enhancing national defence capabilities or through commercial opportunities, business growth and investment.” The same day also saw the signing of several contracts, memoranda of understanding, and strategic agreements in the field of maritime defence, in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs. DIMDEX 2026 features the participation of more than 200 international and national companies across various maritime, land and air defence sectors, in addition to companies specialising in support sectors and advanced technologies. These include technological systems in the fields of cybersecurity, anti-piracy systems and artificial intelligence, command, control, communications, computers, internet, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR), remote-control systems and unmanned systems, among others. The event also witnesses a record participation of official VIP delegations, exceeding 110 delegations from around the world. DIMDEX continues to see strong and ongoing participation by the Qatar Armed Forces across all branches, including Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, Qatar Emiri Air Forces, Qatar Emiri Land Forces, Qatar Emiri Air Defence Forces, as well as the military colleges. On the first day of the event, the official opening of the visiting warships display took place at Hamad Port, which received eight visiting warships from six countries, including the multi-mission warship ‘Al Fulk’ of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces — the largest of its kind in the Gulf region. The event will also host tomorrow, Tuesday 20 January, the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, organised in partnership with the Joaan Bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies under the theme “Defence Diplomacy and Maritime Security Challenges”. For the first time, DIMDEX will feature specialised workshops delivered by exhibitors in a dedicated area within the exhibition, during which they will showcase their latest defence innovations and technologies. The ninth edition of DIMDEX 2026 will be held over four days until 22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre, covering an area exceeding 40,000 square metres. Registration to attend the exhibition and the accompanying activities of the ninth edition is available via https://bit.ly/4aEtajh . For more information, please visit www.dimdex.com  and follow our official social media accounts on X, Facebook and Instagram. #DIMDEX2026

Hamad Port today welcomed eight visiting international warships as part of the activities of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026). The event will officially commence tomorrow, Monday, and continue until 22 January 2026. Visiting warships from France, Kuwait, Oman, Russia, and Saudi Arabia berthed at the port alongside Qatari warship. They were received by Major (Sea) Abdulrahman Yousuf Al-Malki, Warships Logistics Director, in the presence of several accredited local and international media representatives. The Qatar Emiri Naval Forces participated in the event with Al Fulk, their advanced amphibious vessel and the largest of its kind in the Gulf. Al Fulk is a modern strategic transport and support ship. The official opening of the visiting international warships will take place tomorrow at Hamad Port and will be attended exclusively by VIPs, official delegations, and accredited media. Public access to Hamad Port to visit the warships will be available from 20 to 22 January only, and visitors must pre-register online on dimdex.com , and collect their DIMDEX 2026 badges from the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) in order to gain entry to the port. During this period, members of the visiting warship crews will also participate in a special sports tournament designed to strengthen camaraderie and encourage friendly competition, with medals presented to the winning teams at the closing ceremony. For more information, please visit dimdex.com and follow DIMDEX 2026 on social media platforms X, Facebook and Instagram. #HamadPort #DIMDEX2026

The event features over 200 local and international companies, supported by eight major international pavilions. Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026), affirmed full readiness for the ninth edition of the international event, which will commence tomorrow, Monday 19 January, and run for four days until 22 January at the Qatar National Convention Centre.   DIMDEX 2026 is held under the gracious patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar and Supreme Commander of the Qatar Armed Forces, organised and hosted by Qatar Armed Forces under the theme: “A Global Hub for Defence Innovations – Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow.”   During a press conference held today at the Qatar National Convention Centre, attended by a wide range of local and international specialised media representatives, and with the participation of Captain (Sea) Khalid Mohammed Al-Siddiqi, VIP Delegation & Protocol Director, Staff Brigadier Al-Ansari stated: “The ninth edition of DIMDEX 2026 is the largest and most expansive since the event’s inception, reflecting the growing international interest in DIMDEX, which has become one of the most prominent events on the global defence calendar. DIMDEX serves as a key platform for bringing together technological advancements and the latest innovations to address the evolving needs and trends in the defence and security domains. The exhibition has evolved into a comprehensive showcase of the latest naval, air and land defence systems, alongside related sectors such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, radar and advanced surveillance systems, as well as other technological solutions essential to modern military operations”.   “The exhibition also represents a major hub for companies to conclude commercial agreements, drive business growth and stimulate investment, while providing valuable opportunities to establish strategic partnerships. Moreover, DIMDEX facilitates the exchange of knowledge and expertise, offering fresh perspectives on defence-related issues and enabling a deeper understanding of emerging geopolitical and security challenges,” he added.   He further highlighted that DIMDEX 2026 will bring together over 200 national and international companies specialising in security and defence, alongside eight major international pavilions. The event will also feature a wide range of local and national companies from related sectors, as well as representation from various branches of the Qatar Armed Forces. The exhibition will showcase the latest defence innovations and technologies across more than 40,000 square metres of space.   Staff Brigadier Al-Ansari also emphasised the importance of extending the exhibition to four days, in response to exhibitors’ requests, ensuring that exhibitors and visiting delegations have maximum opportunity to benefit from the event.   DIMDEX 2026 will feature a number of events that have become established components of the exhibition, including the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, held in cooperation with the Joaan Bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies, visits of the official VIP delegations, as well as the international visiting warships at Hamad Port. The ninth edition of DIMDEX will include specialised workshops delivered by exhibitors over three days, from 20 to 22 January, in a dedicated area within the exhibition. These workshops will enable participating exhibitors to present their latest innovations directly to delegations and attendees.   As part of DIMDEX 2026, Hamad Port welcomed eight visiting warships earlier today, including the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces vessel ‘Al Fulk’, with local and international media in attendance.   The Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) will take place at the Qatar National Convention Centre. The exhibition will be open on 19, 20 and 21 January from 09:00 to 17:00, and on 22 January from 09:00 to 16:00. Visitor access on the opening day, 19 January, will be from 12:00 noon to 17:00. The event is expected to attract more than 25,000 visitors. Attendance is available through prior online registration at www.dimdex.com   For more information on the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference and DIMDEX 2026, please visit www.dimdex.com and follow DIMDEX on X, Facebook and Instagram. #DIMDEX2026