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Msheireb Properties is bringing back Baraha Cinema for its third edition, continuing a tradition that began in Msheireb more than half a century ago. From 25 December to 3 January 2026, Barahat Msheireb will once again host an outdoor cinema experience featuring family films, seasonal activities, and a movie-themed culinary programme.   Baraha Cinema is part of Msheireb Downtown Doha’s winter calendar, offering accessible entertainment for families and visitors. Building on the success of the past two years, this edition introduces a more immersive outdoor setting shaped by Msheireb’s long association with cinema culture.   A District Shaped by Qatar’s Earliest Outdoor Film Screenings Msheireb, Doha’s oldest district, is historically connected to the origins of cinema in Qatar. In the 1960s, residents—including Dukhan oil company employees, began screening films in their homes and courtyards using 16mm projectors. Neighbours gathered to watch titles projected onto simple wall surfaces, creating one of the country’s earliest open-air viewing experiences. What began as informal family evenings soon expanded into community screenings at local sports and cultural clubs, which later collaborated with distributors and began acquiring films. This shift laid the groundwork for the commercial cinema activity that followed in subsequent decades.   Dr Hafiz Ali Abdulla, Senior Director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, said: “Now in its third edition, Baraha Cinema continues a tradition that is part of Msheireb’s story in Qatar’s cinema history. More than six decades ago, local residents brought families and neighbours together to watch films outdoors, creating some of the earliest open-air screenings in the country. This year, once again, we celebrate that spirit back with screenings that combine films, food, and community in the district where it all began. We hope visitors will enjoy the programme while experiencing a piece of Msheireb’s cultural heritage firsthand.”   Baraha Cinema draws from this heritage by restoring the open-air film tradition to the place where it first gained momentum, giving today’s audiences a contemporary version of an experience rooted in Msheireb’s past.   Taste Cinema Experience Guests can enjoy a specially curated lineup of beloved family films under the stars, enhanced by interactive activities and a distinctive “Taste Cinema Experience.” This gourmet experience includes delicious meals served on custom movie-themed plates, creating a fully immersive culinary moment that delights the senses. With comfortable seating, a family-friendly atmosphere, and gourmet food options, Baraha Cinema designed to deliver an unforgettable evening at Barahat Msheireb.   The 10-day festive film programme is a celebration of classic adventures and modern animated favourites, designed to spark joy and nostalgia. The schedule includes timeless hits such as Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989), Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), and Night at the Museum (2006). It also features animations like Coco (2017), Meet the Robinsons (2007), Kung Fu Panda (2008), Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009), Alice in Wonderland (2010), and Hotel Transylvania (2012), alongside newer releases including The Garfield Movie (2024) and Lilo & Stitch (2025).   Tickets are available in three categories to accommodate different preferences. Standard cinema access is available, while a premium weekday VIP package enhances the experience with prime seating and complimentary refreshments. For weekend visitors seeking the fullest experience, an exclusive VIP Food package provides a curated gourmet journey alongside the screening. All tickets are available for purchase now at https://www.msheireb.com/mdd_events/baraha-cinema/ .   Baraha Cinema continues to support Msheireb Downtown Doha’s broader goal of offering regular cultural and family-friendly activities throughout the year. The open-air screenings present an opportunity for the community to gather in a familiar public space and enjoy a varied film selection during the holiday season. #BarahaCinema

Ford Middle East and North Africa unveiled the new 2026 Ford Everest at the Liwa International Festival, highlighting a Middle East-exclusive 2.7L V6 EcoBoost engine and showcasing the region’s newest off-road-focused variant,   the Everest Tremor.  Introduced in front of festivalgoers and off-road enthusiasts, the Everest V6 brings a new level of power and capability to a nameplate designed to meet the region’s demanding conditions. Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East and North Africa, said: " The unveiling of the 2026 Ford Everest marks a new chapter for Ford in the region under our Ready.Set.Ford . direction. For more than 40 years, we’ve listened to our customers across the Middle East, and the new Everest reflects what they expect from a modern SUV: capability, everyday comfort, and advanced technology—ready for the city, the highway, and the dunes.” The Middle East Exclusive V6 Engine Developed to meet regional customer needs, the 2.7L V6 EcoBoost engine delivers an impressive 355 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering robust capability for confident off-road adventures and demanding driving, while its class-leading power and torque prove markedly more competent than its closest competitors. The 2026 Everest range now includes Active, Sport, Platinum, and the all-new Tremor variants- offering customers greater choice while bringing V6 performance to the Everest lineup. Introducing the Everest Tremor Making its regional debut at Liwa, the Everest Tremor is a dedicated off-road capable variant engineered for drivers   who prioritize adventure-ready hardware. Key enhancements include 17-inch all-terrain tires and Bilstein Suspension, reinforcing Ford’s 4WD heritage and strengthening its lineup of adventure-focused trims in the Middle East. Everest Tremor joins Ford’s growing family of Tremor vehicles in the region, alongside models such as F150 Tremor and Expedition Tremor, extending high off-road capability to families seeking versatility for everyday life and weekend exploration.   "Ready Set Ford": A New Brand Identity for a New Era Ford also used the Liwa International Festival to introduce ‘Ready. Set. Ford.’, as the brand’s new identity in the region.   More than just a tagline, it is an invitation to embrace every journey with renewed energy and purpose- reflecting Ford’s belief that life is an adventure and reinforcing the brand’s focus on capability that supports real customer needs. Ford Middle East and North Africa’s presence at the Liwa underscores more than four decades of commitment to the region, and the brand’s continued focus on delivering vehicles engineered to support customers across diverse landscapes—from urban streets to off-road trails. Disclaimer: “Class-leading” horsepower and torque figures are pending final GSO certification. #Ford

Workshops and guided tours will introduce participants to art through learning and creative practice Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, established by Qatar Foundation, has launched a Learning and Outreach Program, beginning a new phase of educational programming following the museum’s recent opening to the public.Located in Education City, Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum opened its doors in November 2025 and is dedicated to the life and work of Maqbool Fida Husain, one of the greatest modern painters. The museum brings together more than 150 of Husain’s original works and personal objects, spanning painting, film, tapestry, and photography, and tracing the ideas and cultural references that shaped his artistic practice. The Learning and Outreach Program will run from 21-31 December, with sessions designed for different age groups, and registration is now available at https://lawhwaqalam.org.qa/ . It comprises guided tours and workshops for children, young people, and families, with close engagement with artworks as the starting point for discussion and creative exploration. Sessions are structured to provide participants with dedicated time in the galleries before moving into hands-on work developed in response to what they have seen. Across five sessions for different age groups, the program explores key ideas present in Husain’s work, including color and form, storytelling, movement, and abstraction. For younger audiences, the program begins with ‘Shapes and Colors’, a workshop for children aged 4–7 that introduces primary colors and basic shapes through time spent in the galleries, followed by hands-on collage-making. Children aged 8–12 can explore visual storytelling through ‘Stories in the City: Reimagining Urban Life Through M. F. Husain’s Eyes’, which explores how artists make use of composition and symbols to construct meaning, leading participants to create mixed-media city scenes inspired by everyday life.The program also extends beyond the galleries through ‘Art in the Park: Collective Outdoor Mural Experience’, a family workshop that brings observation and expressive painting together in an outdoor setting, resulting in a shared mural shaped by place and community. For teenagers aged 13–17, ‘Dynamic Narratives: Movement, Story & Abstraction’ offers a more exploratory session focused on gesture, rhythm, and abstraction as tools for visual expression.Jowaher Al Marri, Manager of Communications Outreach, said: “Lawh Wa Qalam's Learning and Outreach Program reflects the museum's significance as a space for active learning. These workshops give children, young people, and families the opportunity to engage with the artworks in ways that are immersive, creative, thoughtful, and personal.” "Our aim is for participants to build confidence in observing closely and thinking critically about what they see, while forming their own connections with the artworks. This approach supports Qatar Foundation’s wider commitment to learning beyond the classroom." For more information about Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum, visit https://lawhwaqalam.org.qa/ , and follow on Instagram at @lawhwaqalam. #QartarFoundation

Mannai Trading, the exclusive distributor of BYD in Qatar and the world’s largest manufacturer of new energy vehicles, proudly unveiled the new BYD ATTO 8 at the BYD Showroom in Doha. The event marks the arrival of BYD’s latest next-generation flagship SUV, bringing advanced technology, premium comfort, and inspired design to Qatar’s growing new-energy vehicle market. The BYD ATTO 8 offers a commanding presence with its spacious 7-seat configuration and an exceptional blend of performance, efficiency, and intelligent convenience. Its exterior introduces BYD’s evolved design language, characterized by a bold, modern aesthetic and clean, dynamic lines. Inside, the cabin showcases a refined architectural layout with premium materials and adequate space for everyone, delivering a sophisticated and high-quality interior crafted for today’s families. Powered by BYD’s latest 5th-Generation DM Technology, the ATTO 8 is offered with both the DM-i Super Hybrid Intelligence and DM-p Super Performance Hybrid systems. The DM-p variant accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, while the DM-i achieves a WLTC combined driving range of up to 728 km. Together, the systems generate a combined output of up to 480 horsepower and are paired with a dedicated 1.5T high-efficiency engine. The model also features BYD’s dedicated Blade Battery, ensuring exceptional safety, durability, and long-term reliability. Inside, the ATTO 8 elevates the in-cabin experience with a premium DiSound 21-speaker audio system, and ultra-soft cloud-comfort leather seats with massage functions for the front and 2nd rows. Ensuring complete peace of mind, the BYD ATTO 8 meets global five-star safety standards with a high-strength CTB (Cell To Body) structure, complemented by BYD’s intelligent chassis systems—DiSus-C, to deliver enhanced stability, agility, and comfort across all driving scenarios. “The BYD ATTO 8 sets a new standard for intelligent, family-focused mobility in Qatar. We are proud to bring this flagship SUV to our customers”. Said Rajesh Krishnan, President of Mannai Auto Group. “This launch marks another important step in expanding BYD’s presence in Qatar and delivering products that truly elevate the driving experience.” With its powerful hybrid architecture, flagship luxury, and intelligent full-vehicle experience, the BYD ATTO 8 represents the next chapter for BYD in Qatar and underscores BYD’s commitment to shaping the future of premium new-energy mobility. #BYDATTO

By Kholoud M. Al Ali, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Programming, Qatar Foundation. Nations are shaped over time by the choices they make about people - not only by what they build, but by how they invest in learning, curiosity, and the capacity of individuals to engage with the world around them. Progress rises through people, and the future depends on what they are empowered to become. As Qatar marks its National Day, this idea feels particularly present. ‘With You It Rises, From You It Awaits’, this year's Qatar National Day theme, is a reminder that national progress is inseparable from human development. At Qatar Foundation, we see this as a long-term commitment, strengthened through an ecosystem that places education, culture, and public engagement side by side. Learning does not begin or end at a particular stage of life, nor does it take place in a single setting. This belief is shaped by experience, by exposure, and by environments that allow people to ask questions and develop confidence in their own thinking. For societies to remain resilient, learning must extend beyond formal education and into public and cultural spaces. Culture is central to this broader understanding of learning. It is where identity takes form and where connection happens. Culture allows people to see themselves more clearly while also engaging with perspectives beyond their own. In Qatar, this dual role has long been understood. Cultural development for us has not been about the choice between tradition and modernity. Rather, it is more about creating a dialogue between them. Education City embodies this thinking. Established as an environment where learning is integrated rather than siloed, it is a place where opportunities for knowledge and development span disciplines, institutions, and experiences. Education, research, culture, and community life exist in proximity, reinforcing the idea that learning exists as much beyond the classroom as it does within it. Lawh Wa Qalam: M. F. Husain Museum is part of this environment. Dedicated to one of the greatest of modern artists, Maqbool Fida Husain, the museum draws on the spirit of an visionary whose practice was shaped by constant movement, curiosity, and engagement with the world around him. His work was open, exploratory, and deeply human, and this way of thinking and approaching the world informs the role and the ethos of the museum that now bears his name: a place that encourages attention, reflection, and personal engagement, rather than passive viewing. This approach reflects a broader understanding of education as something that belongs to the whole community. Skills such as observation, critical thinking, and openness to different viewpoints are developed through cultural engagement and carry value far beyond artistic contexts. They support individuals and strengthen the fabric of society, helping communities to adapt and move forward together. Qatar’s continued investment in education, culture, and public engagement reflects its enduring commitment to people. On Qatar National Day, this idea comes into even sharper focus. When learning and culture are embedded in public life, they help to shape individual journeys and the country's shared direction. And what people are empowered to build, the future awaits. #EducationCity

Msheireb Museums, Earthna, and the German Embassy Doha recently hosted the second session of the Doha Climate Talks at Bin Jelmood House. The event convened specialists and stakeholders to discuss financial approaches that promote climate-conscious development.   Titled “Driving Sustainable Finance: Collaborative Insights from Qatari and German Experts,” the discussion centred on the increasing importance of financial approaches that support environmental and climate objectives. Building on the first session held in June, the event encouraged discussion on policy direction, investment priorities, and the use of innovative financial tools that can assist countries in meeting long-term sustainability commitments.   Msheireb Museums General Manager, Abdulla Al Naama, said: “Doha Climate Talks provided an opportunity to discuss how financial approaches can support sustainable progress. The session also highlighted how Qatar Foundation entities, including Msheireb Museums and Earthna, together with the German Embassy Doha, are contributing to sustainability initiatives that support the broader objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. We are pleased that Bin Jelmood House, located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, a district central to sustainability in the country, can provide a space for constructive discussion on climate, finance, and responsible development.”   Earthna Director, H E Sheikh Dr. Soud Khalifa Al Thani, said: “Qatar and Germany share a strong interest in advancing financial frameworks that support sustainable development and long-term value creation. I see real progress in our financial systems, rewarding sustainable performance, not only reporting it."   Meanwhile, German Ambassador to Qatar, H E Oliver Owcza, said: “For Germany, sustainable finance is not just an environmental or climate imperative. It’s a strategic investment in our economic future. In this regard, we greatly value Qatar’s growing engagement in sustainable finance and its ambition to develop financial frameworks that support the global green transition.”   Before the panel discussion, Prof. Dr. Martin Stuchtey, Founder and CEO of Germany-based The Landbanking Group, delivered a presentation on the group’s pioneering work. The Landbanking Group leverages artificial intelligence to measure nature health anywhere on Earth and converts improvements in soil, carbon, water, or biodiversity into tradable financial assets that can be recorded on balance sheets.     The panel discussion that followed brought together Dr. Alexandra Soezer, Director of the Climate Action Center of Excellence (CACE), and Leo Tong, Head of Sustainability at Qatar National Bank. Panelists discussed practical approaches for integrating ESG considerations into financial planning, the opportunities for sustainable investments in Qatar and Germany, and ways innovative financial instruments can support climate-related projects. The discussion also addressed how financial systems can enable collaboration between governments, corporations, and local communities to deliver measurable environmental benefits.   The event attracted participants from government entities, the financial and economic sectors, academia, international organisations, and groups working within the Environmental, Social, and Governance   (ESG) landscape. #MsheirebMuseums

Minneapolis–St. Paul has a new splash of colour on its skyline, and it comes from halfway around the world. Qatari contemporary artist Mubarak Nasser Al-Thani has completed a large-scale mural in the Twin Cities, offering a fresh take on some of the area’s most familiar landmarks inspired by repeating patterns popular in Middle Eastern design.   The mural features a stylised mix of Minneapolis–St. Paul icons, including the historic Foshay Tower, Stone Arch Bridge, IDS Center, Wells Fargo Tower, the Cedar complex, and the Minnesota State Capitol, all reimagined through Mubarak’s minimalistic, geometric style. The result is a colourful visual map of the metro area’s architectural identity.   “As an artist rooted in Doha but now working in Minneapolis, I view every city through the lens of cultural exchange, merging my eastern heritage with a new western skyline,” Mubarak said. “My aim with this mural is to reflect the architecture of the Twin Cities through shapes and colours that carry both Qatari influences and Midwestern spirit. Qatar’s Years of Culture initiative brought me to the U.S. in 2021 to create street art in San Francisco during the Qatar-USA partnership and I am happy to continue that journey in Minneapolis.”   Al-Thani, who splits his time between Doha and Minneapolis where he is pursuing a second MFA in painting and with a minor in sculpting at the Minneapolis College of the Arts and Design (MCAD), is known for deconstructing urban landscapes and reassembling them through stacked forms, cultural motifs, and rhythmic sequences. His work spans painting, mixed media, and public art, with previous exhibitions in New York, Geneva, Saint Petersburg, and Doha. He has completed residencies at Doha’s Fire Station and the International Studio & Curatorial Programme in New York.   For this mural, Mubarak set out to capture the character of the Midwest, its sense of openness, its open skyline, and its steady architectural rhythm, while weaving in the eastern motifs that define his artistic language. His signature broken sequences and repeating patterns draw from Arabian aesthetics, creating an unexpected conversation between the Middle East and Minnesota.   The mural’s colour palette and smooth texture were intentionally chosen to complement the surrounding red-brick buildings, many of which were constructed using sediments from the Mississippi riverbed. Blocks of exposed “sky” in the design echo the soft red tones of the river itself, flowing nearby.   The mural is the newest addition to the legacy of the Qatar-USA 2021 Year of Culture that continues to connect Qatar with communities far beyond the region. #QatarYearsofCulture #QatarUSA

Houda Bouamor, a leading Arabic NLP researcher, outlines the key challenges for AI in the Middle East—and how CMU-Q is building a new generation of talent to meet them. The future of artificial intelligence in the Middle East hinges on solving its "inclusion" problem, according to Houda Bouamor, a leading expert in Arabic Natural Language Processing (NLP) and an associate teaching professor at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q). Most AI models are trained on formal, literary Arabic, which leaves them unable to understand the region's many spoken dialects. Furthermore, Arabic’s complex morphology creates a level of nuance that English-centric models are not designed to handle. Boumor argues this is not just a technical issue: "It’s about inclusion and making sure our societies benefit from AI in ways that fit our needs." The Arabic Language Gap Even with hundreds of millions of speakers, Arabic is considered a low-resource language in the AI world. This creates a significant disparity in how technology serves the region. "For everyday dialects — like those spoken here in Qatar — the gap is even bigger," she noted. "This means many tools don’t fully understand how we communicate in real life.” The impact of this gap is far-reaching. Bouamor explains that solving it is essential for improving education by "supporting children in their own language" and building critical accessibility tools, such as speech recognition for people with disabilities. A broader regional vision This linguistic gap is part of a larger set of regional challenges that Bouamor believes AI is uniquely positioned to address. She identifies multimodality—the integration of speech, images, and video—as an important enabler for a region with rich oral traditions and burgeoning media industries. Furthermore, she stresses the need for AI for social good, directing research to solve specific Middle East and North Africa (MENA) challenges in healthcare, climate sustainability, and crisis management. However, this technical growth, she warns, must be paired with ethical considerations. “Growth should not only be technical,” she said. “We need governance frameworks that ensure AI reflects our cultural values, addresses bias, and is trusted by society. This is a key area for research — and it is particularly important in regions where diverse voices must be represented.” A new generation of specialists To meet these complex regional challenges, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar has launched a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (BSAI). The new program will augment the AI focus in the campus’ existing programs in biological sciences, business administration, computer science and information systems. Bouamor describes the new degree as a catalyst to creating a new, collaborative ecosystem of local talent. Within CMU-Q, she looks forward to a powerful synergy between those who build AI and those who apply it: “The BSAI will create specialists who can build advanced models, while students, faculty and researchers in the other programs can guide new areas for discipline-specific applications and responsible, ethical deployment." This dual focus on capability and conscience is already a core part of the university's approach, and Bouamor looks forward to expanding this as the BSAI program is rolled out: “Our goal is to help create a self-sustaining innovation ecosystem in Qatar, and prepare graduates who can develop cutting-edge AI that responsibly serves people and society."   About Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar For 125 years, Carnegie Mellon University has forged a path of innovation and collaboration. A private and top-ranked university, Carnegie Mellon looks beyond the traditional campus borders to have a transformative, global impact.   In 2004, CMU and Qatar Foundation began a partnership to bring this unique educational experience to the Middle East. Today, more than 450 students pursue undergraduate degrees in the growing fields of artificial intelligence, biological sciences, business administration, computer science and information systems.   As the CMU-Q alumni network grows, so does the impact of our graduates. They work at top organizations and innovative startups. They are researchers, creators, entrepreneurs, analysts and educators, and they are working to improve the world around them. #CMUQ

The Year of Culture partnership has laid the foundation for a deeper economic relationship between Qatar and Argentina . T hat groundwork became visible this year with three major commercial announcements delivered during a high-level delegation visit by H.E. Mr. Hernán Lombardi, Minister of Economic Development for the City of Buenos Aires, and Augusto Ardiles, Undersecretary of Investments. The agreements mark a significant milestone in Argentina’s growing commercial presence in Qatar and reflect the momentum created through sustained institutional engagement during the Year of Culture programme.   H.E. Mohammed Al Kuwari, former Ambassador of Qatar to Mexico and Advisor on Latin American Affairs for Years of Culture, said: “Years of Culture has shown that cultural exchange is a foundation for trust, understanding, and sustainable economic partnership. The growing commercial presence in Qatar we see through these agreements is a direct outcome of the relationships built over the past year, and a powerful example of how cultural diplomacy can pave the way for meaningful investment and innovation.”   Buenos Aires will open an InvestBA office in Doha in 2026, marking the city’s first official representation in the Gulf region and establishing a permanent platform for trade and investment promotion.   Signaling a robust collaboration pipeline, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), a leading onshore financial and business centre in the region, and the Ministry of Economic Development of Buenos Aires was signed by Minister Hernán Lombardi. It seeks to create stronger bilateral investment channels and new support mechanisms for Argentinian companies entering the Gulf market.   Commenting on this partnership, Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Financial Centre, said: “This MoU builds on the foundation established through more than 50 years of partnership between Qatar and Argentina. It will enable coherent and effective collaboration between the Qatar Financial Centre and the Ministry of Economic Development of the City of Buenos Aires, reinforcing our shared commitment to supporting business growth. With this MoU, we are creating a more supportive environment that helps our firms expand across borders through smoother market entry and mutual assistance.”   To that end, Argentinian BioTech, HealthTech, Multimedia and Applied AI companies are moving toward establishing operations in Qatar via the Qatar Financial Centre, deepening Argentina’s footprint in the GCC. H.E. Hernán Lombardi said: “These agreements reflect the confidence our team in Buenos Aires places in Qatar as a strategic partner for innovation, investment, and long-term collaboration. Establishing InvestBA in Doha and deepening our institutional ties through the QFC opens a new chapter for Argentinian companies seeking to engage with the Gulf. We look forward to building on this momentum and creating concrete opportunities that benefit both of our economies.” Cultural Diplomacy as a Catalyst for Economic Opportunity Qatar’s Years of Culture initiative, long celebrated for its cultural diplomacy, has increasingly become a driver of economic growth. In 2025, the initiative played a decisive role in shaping new routes for cooperation by bringing Argentina’s innovators into direct and repeated dialogue with Qatar’s business, government, and financial institutions. Through curated introductions, sector-focused events, and ongoing institutional engagement, Years of Culture created a climate of trust that accelerated the pace at which bilateral economic relationships could take shape.   Cultural Bridges Become Commercial Gateways Through coordinated efforts between Years of Culture and Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), Argentina participated in several major trade events in Qatar this year, an approach that positioned cultural exchange as a launching pad for business opportunity. Argentina’s delegation highlighted wellness-oriented F&B products, customer-intelligence technologies, and multimedia innovation. These sectors align with rising demand in Qatar’s rapidly expanding hospitality and creative industries.   Years of Culture as an Economic Accelerator The three major market announcements now emerging, the MoU, the InvestBA office, and the potential expansion of Argentinian companies in the GCC market through Qatar, illustrate how cultural diplomacy can impact real business outcomes.   By turning shared cultural goodwill into business pipelines, Years of Culture is reinforcing Qatar’s role as a hub for global innovation and diversification. At the same time, it offers Argentina, and other Years of Culture partner nations, a direct pathway into one of the Middle East’s most dynamic markets.   With new companies entering Qatar, new institutions opening in Doha, and high-level agreements being signed, Years of Culture has demonstrated that culture is a powerful force for shared economic growth. #QFC

Qatar Museums (QM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom’s Department for Business and Trade and the British Council, marking an important milestone in the long-standing cultural relationship nurtured through the Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture and subsequent programming. The agreement promotes deep collaboration across creative industries, reinforcing a shared commitment to knowledge exchange and cultural dialogue. At the heart of the MoU is a shared belief in the value of creativity as a driver of economic growth, cultural understanding, and community engagement. Under the agreement, both sides will work together to support artists, designers, filmmakers, musicians, and other creative professionals through residencies, training programmes, and mentorship. The partnership will also help build networks and provide access to professional platforms, enabling emerging and established talent to expand their skills and reach wider audiences. CEO of Qatar Museums Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi highlighted the significance of the partnership and its link to the Years of Culture initiative. “This MoU is a natural extension of our ongoing collaboration under the Qatar-UK 2013 Years of Culture, which has created lasting creative partnerships. Together, Qatar and the UK will expand opportunities for cultural and economic exchange, enhance international visibility for creative voices, and build infrastructure that supports the creative sectors in both nations.” The MoU places special emphasis on museum and heritage cooperation, reflecting the importance of exhibitions and cultural programming in strengthening public engagement. Joint exhibitions, research exchange, and shared initiatives will help build institutional capacity while promoting dialogue between creative experts from both countries. Rupert Daniels, Director of Services at the UK’s Department for Business and Trade reflected, "Today’s forum has united cultural leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and creatives from Qatar and the UK to harness the transformative power of the creative industries in shaping inclusive and sustainable growth. This MoU reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Qatar’s creative ambitions and our shared vision for a vibrant future. Together, we will spark innovation and create the storytellers of the future." Director of the British Council in Qatar is Dr. Waseem Kotoub emphasised the importance of the Years of Culture legacy in shaping the new partnership. “The Years of Culture collaboration has demonstrated the power of sustained cultural engagement to build trust, drive innovation, and strengthen the creative sector in both the UK and Qatar. This MoU reflects our commitment to deepen that partnership through practical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and institutional collaboration.” Innovation and entrepreneurship are also key pillars of the agreement. Both nations will share best practices to support startups and small creative businesses, particularly in sectors such as fashion, media, design, photography, and music. Through programmes and incubation opportunities, the agreement seeks to empower independent creatives and build a successful, sustainable creative ecosystem. Beyond institutional cooperation, the MoU highlights public engagement as an essential goal. Community-focused art projects, cultural initiatives, youth competitions, and public space installations will encourage deeper cultural awareness and bring creativity directly to communities. Looking ahead, the MoU is expected to support cultural and economic development in the creative industries of both nations. It aligns with QM’s strategic efforts to position Qatar as a dynamic hub for creativity and cultural innovation and exemplifies the ultimate of the Years of Culture initiative. By strengthening ties that began as part of the Qatar–UK 2013 Year of Culture, this latest initiative reinforces the legacy of the programme and its role as a catalyst for international cultural cooperation. #QatarMuseums #UK

Doha’s culinary scene takes center stage as the MICHELIN Guide unveils its 2026 edition the second since its debut last year at the St. Regis Doha. This year’s selection celebrates the city’s evolving gastronomic identity, introducing 12 new restaurants, nine of which make the selected category. Eight restaurants earn the Bib Gourmand distinction for exceptional value, while three establishments receive a One MICHELIN Star distinction.   Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide , said: “The MICHELIN Guide Doha 2026 selection reflects the remarkable evolution of this dynamic city’s culinary scene. Doha is not only a cultural hub but has firmly established itself as a destination for food lovers seeking exceptional experiences. The addition of new Bib Gourmand distinctions and the continued presence of One MICHELIN Star restaurants highlight Doha’s commitment to quality, creativity, and innovation. As the gastronomic landscape continues to flourish, Doha promises unforgettable dining moments and an even brighter future for its culinary identity.”   One MICHELIN Star MICHELIN Stars are awarded to restaurants offering outstanding cooking, taking into account five universal criteria: the quality of the ingredients; the harmony of flavors; the mastery of techniques; the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine; and, just as importantly, consistency both across the entire menu and over time. Alba  This Italian restaurant, nestled within the iconic Katara Towers at the luxurious Raffles Doha, earns its promotion to One MICHELIN Star this year thanks to the culinary artistry showcased by chef Cristhian Serraino. Dishes like Barolo-braised veal cheek and shrimp ragù spaghetti as well as premium ingredients used, such as Balfegó tuna flown in from Europe, truly created an unforgettable experience.  Maintaining a MICHELIN Star is among the highest honors in the culinary world, and in the 2026 edition, two restaurants have once again proven their excellence. Jamavar and IDAM by Alain Ducasse  proudly retain their distinctions, reaffirming their mastery and commitment to exceptional dining.   Four new Bib Gourmands The Bib Gourmand award highlights restaurants within the selection which offer good quality food at a great price. Fenyal This cozy Gewan Island café is a local favorite, serving vibrant, pocket-friendly Middle Eastern flavors from falafel and lamb kofta to aromatic Arabic coffee. Mila Located on Rosewood Doha’s first floor, this warm spot offers Mediterranean and Levantine sharing plates by Chef Marc at great value.   Berenjak Al Maha  Persian elegance meets island charm with hearty stews, fresh breads, and kebabs cooked over coals all well-priced.   Baron Beirut favorite’s sister restaurant serves a Mediterranean fusion menu, with generous sharing dishes like crab capellini, offers excellent value for business lunch.   Isaan, Argan, Jiwan and  Hoppers retain their distinctions this year.     Nine new restaurants added to Guide’s selection Em Sherif This popular Lebanese spot on Al Maha Island offers elegant interiors and a terrace with stunning city views.   Carbone Doha On Al Maha Island, this lively branch of a New York icon serves classics like spicy rigatoni, steaks, and lamb chops.   Koo Madame Dark and stylish, this Rosewood Doha venue serves dim sum, hand-pulled noodles, and the signature Beijing Duck carved tableside.   Shanghai Me Doha This intimate city restaurant blends Chinese and Japanese flavors in a plush 1930s-inspired setting. Highlights include silver cod with yuzu miso, short rib gyoza, and zodiac-themed cocktails.   Hunters Room & Grill Look for the stag statue at Westin Doha to find premium Australian steaks and bold flavors. Their sea bass aguachile is a must-try.   Salt Road This Andaz Doha spot celebrates South African cuisine with cured brisket, Josper-roasted mushrooms, and standout steaks.   Loris A   plush setting on The Pearl offers authentic Lebanese dishes made for sharing, from silky hummus to cherry kebabs.   Mr & Mrs Hawker Relive Singapore’s hawker culture with vibrant dishes like chili crab and mango sago pudding.   yūn This opulent Chinese restaurant pairs panoramic views with Cantonese classics. Start with dim sum and finish with the signature roast duck served two ways. #MICHELINGuideDoha #MICHELINGuide2026

The British Council, in partnership with Qatar Museums, the British Embassy Doha, and the UK Department for Business & Trade, supported by GREAT campaign proudly announces the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival, taking place from 2–12 December 2025. The Festival is an ongoing legacy of the hugely successful Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture.   Marking a decade of cultural collaboration, this milestone edition celebrates the strategic partnership between Qatar and the UK and the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Department of Business and Trade, the British Council and Qatar Museums, under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. The MoU signifies a long-term commitment to advancing collaboration in the creative industries and cultural exchange between both nations.   The 2025 Qatar-UK Festival edition coincides with Qatar Museums’ 20th anniversary, making it a particularly special moment that recognises Qatar’s continued investment in arts, culture, and innovation. The festival returns as a vibrant platform for creative collaboration, activating the MoU through a programme focused on creativity, innovation, and partnership across sectors.   Through a dynamic programme, the festival will showcase how culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship come together to nurture young talent, drive sustainable growth, and deepen people-to-people connections.   Programme Highlights – 10th Edition   ●        Creative Industries Forum  (10th December, National Museum of Qatar): Flagship policy and creative dialogue convening cultural leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from both nations to explore collaboration in fashion, design, media, film and technology, gaming and e-sport, cultural infrastructure and creative hubs. ●        Fashion Show (Museum of Islamic Art): A grand event spotlighting sustainability, heritage, fashion and sport, and emerging talent in Qatar’s fashion scene. ●        Qatar International Art Festival:  Exhibitions and live art from Qatari and international artists, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a global arts hub. ●        Photography & AI Competition : Showcasing creative expressions of identity, community, and connection, with winning entries exhibited during the festival. ●        Teen Hub Collaboration:  Youth innovation, teens sustainable fashion show, and AI and art workshops in partnership with Teen Art Awards. ●        Gaming & E-sports Showcase: Highlighting the intersection of technology, youth culture, and digital innovation on 9 th  December at the Teen Hub.   Mr Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, added:  “As Qatar Museums marks its 20th anniversary, we are honoured to celebrate this milestone alongside the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival a legacy of the Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture. Our partnership with the British Council continues to strengthen Qatar’s role as a regional and global cultural hub, championing creativity, innovation, and the exchange of ideas that drive the creative economy forward.”   His Excellency, the British Ambassador to the State of Qatar Mr Neerav Patel said: “ I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the British Council and the entire team on marking ten years of the Qatar–UK Festival, a decade of creative exchange and meaningful connection. The festival embodies the best of our longstanding friendship, creativity, collaboration, and shared ambition. It highlights how cultural exchange and the creative industries connect our people and open new opportunities for innovation and growth. As we celebrate this milestone, the UK remains deeply committed to supporting Qatar’s creative journey and our shared vision for the future.”   Dr Waseem Kotoub, Country Director for British Council Qatar, said : “We are proud to mark the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival, a legacy built on connection, creativity, and collaboration. Over the past decade, the festival has served as a catalyst for dialogue and exchange between Qatar and the UK, bringing together artists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers who believe in the power of culture to transform societies. We look to the future with renewed energy and purpose, continuing our work to support Qatar’s growing creative economy and its ambition to build a knowledge-based economy as envisioned in Qatar National Vision 2030. Through education, skills development, and cross-sector collaboration, the British Council remains deeply committed to creating opportunities that empower young people and drive sustainable growth across both our nations.”   Strategic partners of the festival this year are the Years of Culture initiative, Qatar Museums, Media City and Qatar Development Bank and Scale7, Cultural Attache Office in the UK, Qatar University.   The festival has also brought a wide range of UK and Qatar partners and businesses to celebrate the two nations’ friendship, including Liberty UK, Bentley Cars, Teen Hub, Hurlingham Polo 1875, Polo AlMarsa, Tasweer, M7, Qatar International Art Festival, Katara Cultural Village Foundation, Teen art awards, Dunes and Bisht Magazines, Quest, The Edge, Qatar Businesswomen Association, KON Group W.L.L.   For more information on the partnership and the Qatar UK Festival programme, please contact: Sachi Kumar, Senior Communications Manager, sachi.kumar@britishcouncil.org Aya Hassan, Arts Project Manager, aya.hassan@britishcouncil.org   #BritishCouncil #QatarUK