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with less than a month to go to the launch of Expo 2023 Doha With less than a month to go, Commissioner Generals from countries participating in Expo 2023 Doha gathered at the Westin Hotel on September 9th, 2023, to discuss cooperation and finalize preparations for this landmark international event. The meeting highlighted the commitment of participants from across the globe to ensure the success of the first A1 horticultural exhibition held in the MENA region. Discussions at the meeting focused on fostering an environment of collaboration and partnership ahead of the awaited Expo 2023 Doha. Participants also addressed all organizational aspects, including zone operation and site service, sponsorship activation, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. His Excellency Bader Al Dafa, Expo 2023 Doha Commissioner General, emphasized the importance of the International Participants Meeting, noting that Expo 2023 Doha is an unprecedented opportunity for countries around the world to showcase their creativity, agricultural and horticultural practices, culture, and heritage, as well as their collective commitment to deliver a successful event that will leave a lasting impact on global environmental cooperation. The attendees also conducted a site visit to Expo 2023 Doha, allowing them to witness firsthand the remarkable progress and facilities that will welcome millions of visitors from around the globe. With the theme “Green Desert, Better Environment,” Expo 2023 Doha will address four key themes: Modern Agriculture, Technology and Innovation, Environmental Awareness, and Sustainability through unique exhibitions, events and activations that will be held over 6 months. About Expo 2023 Doha: Expo 2023 Doha will be the first A1 International Horticultural Exhibition to be held in Qatar, the Middle East, and North Africa. Organized and Led by the Ministry of Municipality, Expo 2023 Doha is conceived in line with the guiding principles of Qatar National Vision 2030 that puts environmental management and sustainable development at the heart of its mission. Running for 179 days from October 2, 2023 till March 28, 2024 and aiming to reach more than 3 million visitors, Expo Doha 2023 will offer guests with an opportunity to visit ornamental gardens, attend public debates, conferences, live shows and enjoy art and culinary performances in the dedicated area in Al Bidda Park spanning across 1.7M square metres and facing the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Under the auspices of the BIE (Bureau International Des Expositions) and AIPH (International Association for Horticultural Producers), the exhibition will draw international visitors and organizers from 80 countries, as well as the national and international related Industries, Government entities and officials ‎‎(local, regional and international), Non-governmental organisations, Commercial affiliates; Sponsors, ‎Partners, Suppliers, Media (local, regional and international) and national, regional, international general ‎public visitors.‎. The theme of Expo 2023 Doha is "Green Desert, Better Environment" as it aims to encourage sustainable innovation and reduce desertification. It will inspire visitors to take part in the change through 4 sub-themes: • Modern Agriculture • Technology & Innovation • Environmental Awareness • Sustainability To find out more information and stay on top of the latest news, visit www.dohaexpo2023.gov.qa/ About BIE: The BIE (The Bureau International Des Exposition) is the Intergovernmental Organization in charge of overseeing and regulating all international exhibitions that last more than three weeks and are of non-commercial nature ("Expos"). Today, 4 main types of Expos are organized under its auspices: World Expos, Specialized Expos, Horticultural Expos and the Triennale di Milano. BIE’s mission is to guarantee the quality and the success of these world events, protect the rights of their organizers and participants, and preserve their core values of Education, Innovation and Cooperation. From the 31 countries that created the BIE in 1928, the Organization has grown to 170 Member States, as a result of the success and the appeal of Expos. The BIE Member States take part in all the decisions of the BIE, and they strive to continually improve the quality of Expos. The headquarters of the BIE are located in Paris. BIE is a key international stakeholder in EXPO 2023 DOHA. www.bie-paris.org About AIPH: AIPH is The International Association of Horticultural Producers is an international nongovernmental organization (NGO) dedicated to promoting horticultural producers. AIPH aims to put flower, plant and landscaping services on a global agenda, with a vision to: Stimulate increased demand for ornamental trees, plants and flowers worldwide. • Protect and promote the interests of the industry. • Be an international hub for industry information and knowledge exchange. Lead best practice in ornamentals production. • With a mandate agreed by an international convention, AIPH has been approving and regulating International Horticultural Expos, with BIE (www.bie-paris.org), since 1960. Enthusiasm for such Expos has continued to grow, with millions of people visiting Expos hosted all over the world. • AIPH is a key international stakeholder in EXPO 2023 DOHA. www.aiph.org #Expo2023Doha

for the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023 Exclusive Agreement builds on the Hotel’s support for Sporting Events in the country W Doha Hotel & Residences announced that, in partnership with Lusail International Circuit (LIC), it has been appointed as the official hotel partner and caterer for the highly-anticipated FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023 next month. As part of the collaboration, the hotel will also be activating an engaging fan zone experience at the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023 at LIC, in addition to hosting the official and exclusive FORMULA 1 post event reception. The collaboration between W Doha and Lusail International Circuit was unveiled during a special signing ceremony held on September 10th at COYA restaurant located at W Doha. The ceremony was hosted by Wassim Daageh, General Manager of W Doha, and Amro Al Hamad, CEO of LIC and Executive Director of Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), and was attended by members of the media and other prominent guests. The Lusail International Circuit is set to come alive from the 6th to the 8th October, bringing the biggest names in F1 racing to Qatar for the second time, offering residents, guests and F1 fans a from around the world a spectacle of motoring skill and acceleration. The event will feature multiple cuisines from W Doha’s award-winning outlets and see the hotel’s experienced team cater to thousands of local, regional, and international guests and attendees across designated hospitality lounges. W Doha is also assigned to be the Official post race event gathering venue for the event which is anticipated to feature exciting performances. The dedicated event promises to captivate and amaze guests, providing them with immersive experiences that bring them closer to the exhilarating world of F 1. “Lusail International Circuit is pleased to collaborate with W Doha to deliver a luxury hospitality experience at this year's race. We are confident that this partnership will bring a seamless and high-end experience to fans of the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2023,” said Amro Al Hamad. “This agreement further marks W Doha’s commitment to Qatar's tourism and sports sectors and we look forward to creating unforgettable moments for guests and motoring enthusiasts visiting Qatar from all over the world in true W Hotel style. Our talented Food & Beverage team are ready to deliver a creative and sophisticated culinary experience at the Formula 1 hospitality lounges and fan zones and we very much look forward to welcoming F1 fans to enjoy our award-winning restaurants and the host of post race activations we have curated specifically for this exciting tournament,” commented Wassim Daageh. The agreement with Lusail International Circuit further reinforces W Doha as a leading lifestyle hotel, supporting major sporting events in Qatar. The hotel was also recently named as the exclusive hotel and preferred residence of the Qatar Basketball Federation in August. #WDoha # FORMULA1 #LusailInternationalCircuit #QATARAIRWAYS #QATARGRANDPRIX2023

Exhibition by Qatar Museums and the Vitra Design Museum The new showcase is accompanied by a diverse schedule of furniture design-related workshops and events, carefully developed to engage the public with the themes of the exhibition M7 unveils the eagerly-anticipated Masterpieces of Furniture Design, an exhibition by Qatar Museums and the Vitra Design Museum in Germany, showcasing one of the world’s most renowned collections of furniture. Curated by the Director of the Vitra Design Museum, Dr. Mateo Kries, the exhibition explores the evolution of what modern furniture has achieved over the past 200 years. Featuring more than 50 iconic objects from the museum’s renowned collection, the exhibition explores the various themes that have played a role in the creation of some of history’s most iconic furniture pieces. Masterpieces of Furniture Design showcases work from the most influential names in modern design such as Le Corbusier, Charles and Ray Eames, Zaha Hadid, and Virgil Abloh, and explores a number of styles and artistic concepts ranging from Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and Postmodernism, as well as the influence of the digital era on furniture. Some original pieces featured in the exhibition include the iconic Panton Chair by Verner Panton, Eileen Gray’s E 1027 Side Table, Mesa table designed by Zaha Hadid and Patrick Schumacher, and MR 10/2 by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. The exhibits are grouped according to 7 principles that can define excellence in design – from design’s close ties to art to its potential at reaching socially or ecologically sustainable solutions. The seven principles are: Innovating Crafts and Technologies, Designing Sustainability, Learning from Nature, Comfort Zones, The Social Question, Less is More, and Dialogues between Art and Design. Complementing Masterpieces of Furniture Design, the exhibition’s presenting sponsor Al Mana Maples will also open two satellite exhibitions later in the year at Doha Design District, The Miniatures Exhibition which displays one hundred 1:6 miniature replicas of 100 Classical Seats, and The Original Comes from Vitra roadshow, which is part of a global project on Vitra’s bestselling products. Accompanying Masterpieces of Furniture Design exhibition, M7 is showcasing a small-scale pop-up titled Crafting Spaces, displaying ten bespoke pieces of furniture made by seven Qatar-based designers. The exhibition captures the creative energy that propels Doha’s thriving design community, and the emerging and established designers involved have skilfully crafted furniture pieces that marry function and aesthetics with matter and connection. The items on display are all connected to a larger narrative and personal storytelling, taking inspiration from the heritage, cultural and geographical backdrop that have influenced their designs. M7 will deliver a vibrant schedule of public programmes designed for both adults and children. The diverse offering for adults includes: A curatorial talk with Dr. Mateo Kries - the Curator of the exhibition and Director of the Vitra Design Museum, an interactive Home Styling Workshop, an educational workshop called How to Spot an Original, a discussion with local furniture designers, and a networking event - Memphis Design Back to the 80s. Additionally, a younger audience can look forward to two lively arts and crafts workshops - Vitra Playhouse and 100% Cardboard. These public programmes will run from September until December. M7’s yearly Zwara programme will begin in tandem with Masterpieces of Furniture Design. Designers are encouraged to engage with a design prompt, crafting a prototype furniture piece inspired by the exhibition. The programme involves a tour, and a period dedicated to design and production, as well as a week-long residency and skills development programme. The programme culminates with a pop-up exhibition at M7, which will showcase the finished designs. Masterpieces of Furniture Design officially opens to the public on 8 September 2023, and will run until 9 December 2023. For more details about the schedule of workshops and events visit www.m7.org.qa #M7 #QatarMuseums #VitraDesignMuseum

talabat, the region’s leading platform for everyday deliveries, has launched donation campaigns on behalf of its #techforgood commitment to communities. Proceeds from these charitable initiatives will be used as urgent emergency relief support to survivors in Morocco, following the tragic earthquake. This comes as part of the company’s ongoing dedication to creating a positive impact and giving back to the communities in need. Customers looking to make a difference in supporting those affected in Morocco can contribute through the following: Qatar Red Crescent Society: Customers can search ‘Qatar Red Crescent’ in the talabat app, and select ‘Urgent Relief - Morocco Earthquake’ to donate promptly to the pressing cause (LC2023QRCR09-000001). talabat will also donate 1 QAR to aid the victims of the earthquake for every order made from the selected Arabic cuisine restaurants on the ‘Support Morocco’ section within talabat’s main menu. Francisco Miguel De Sousa, Managing Director of talabat Qatar said: “ We, at talabat, believe in the strength of giving back to our community and staying in solidarity with one another. In partnership with Qatar Red Crescent Society, we are committed to stand by Morocco during these challenging times and dedicate our conscious efforts to aid the survivors and their families in Morocco, who have been affected by this unimaginable tragedy. ” Customers can download the talabat application through the iOS App Store, Google Play store, and Huawei App Gallery. #talabat

to address Sustainable Housing Solutions for the Arab World's Future Speakers to share their expertise, shed light on industry trends, and explore innovative approaches to address current challenges in the Arab World’s housing sector. Amidst the ever-evolving global economic landscape and the dynamic growth of the Arab world's population, the housing market in the region has reached unprecedented levels of demand and innovation. In response to this imperative, the Arab Housing & Community Development Forum will be held at the prestigious Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. UAE Minister of Energy, H. E. Eng. Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei said, “We are looking forward to share knowledge with experts as there is a great need to chart a path towards a thriving housing market that meets the needs and aspirations of the people in the Arab world. I believe the Arab Housing & Community Development Forum will be the ideal platform to discuss the sustainable growth and development of the housing sector in the region. The two-day event is from September 11th to the 12th, congregating industry experts, government representatives, developers, investors, and other key stakeholders looking into pressing matters surrounding the housing market in the Arab world. H.E. Engineer Mohammed Al Mansoori, Director of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, said, "The Arab Housing and Community Development Forum aligns with our strategic vision to support citizen well-being and our efforts to provide sustainable government housing, foster citizen happiness, and enhance the competitiveness of the United Arab Emirates in the sector. We are fully prepared to collaborate with industry leaders, thought leaders, and experts to shape the future of housing." He added, "The forum will serve as a leading platform for collaboration to support the housing and urban development sectors, and to strengthen efforts to address their challenges, as they are of vital importance for sustainable development. Its significance lies in our understanding that cooperation, solidarity, and effective management of the government housing sector are extremely important, especially in light of population growth and current challenges. In the UAE, we are committed to working hand in hand with everyone to move into a new phase of cooperation in various housing and urban areas." He continued, "The collaboration aimed for by the forum reflects the commitment of all parties to innovative growth and mirrors their efforts to enhance sustainable housing solutions. In the United Arab Emirates, we look forward to contributing to this pivotal event and building a prosperous tomorrow for our nation." As the Arab world constitutes approximately 6% of the global population, ensuring adequate and sustainable housing has become a pivotal necessity for the region's stability and progress. The housing industry in the Arab world is poised for transformative growth, with projections indicating substantial expansion. Earlier this year, UAE set aside funds to build up to 76,000 new homes in the next five years valued at over AED 85bn for its citizens. Regionally, the Saudi Arabian real estate industry is anticipated to reach a value of USD 161.3 billion within the same year. Against the backdrop of these remarkable statistics, the demand for housing in the region has surged to record levels, with Saudi Arabia requiring an estimated 3.9 million housing units and the United Arab Emirates demanding 980 thousand units in 2022 alone. The Arab Housing & Community Development Forum is ideal for examining the rapid advancements and challenges within the housing sector, aligning them with global sustainability initiatives. With a focus on promoting green housing solutions and fostering a collaborative approach, the forum will bring together key stakeholders including government authorities, private developers, contractors, builders, and technology providers drawing over 300 attendees, more than 40 speakers, 25+ exhibitors, and is supported by 10 media partners. The Arab Housing & Community Development Forum is a pivotal gathering for all those invested in the region's housing industry and dedicated to evolving housing solutions that align with the broader goals of the Arab world. It will offer a unique opportunity to foster meaningful connections, discover groundbreaking ideas, and forge partnerships that will shape the future of housing in the Arab world. #SustainableHousingSolutionsfortheArabWorldsFuture

In line with Zumra's mission to inspire stronger and tight-knit communities, the event brought together people from diverse industries and backgrounds. The evening was a dynamic gathering of health and wellness enthusiasts, moderated by the talented Nadia Al-Haroon, a lifestyle influencer and certified mindfulness practitioner who is passionate about mental health. The distinguished array of panelists included Hassan Al-Saiqal, founder of Healthy Kitchen and a veteran men's physique competitor; Eylin Teresa Mendoza, a Peruvian E-RYT 500 yoga, mindfulness, and meditation instructor who is also renowned for her extreme sports prowess; and Malu Marsault, the visionary founder of This Mama Invests, a financial movement empowering women to secure lasting legacies. Also contributing their expertise were Amna Al-Mohannadi, a certified Ayurvedic instructor and co-founder of ATLAAD, a natural beauty brand promoting wellness tourism; Pierre Daniel, a French adventurer, marketing professional, and endurance athlete who is known for setting a Guinness World Record for crossing Qatar; and Tina Balachandran, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of experience who spearheaded the establishment of a mental health department within Qatar's national airline. Each panelist shared their unique perspectives on health and wellness, providing attendees with valuable insights and actionable tips for a healthier, more holistic lifestyle. The interactive workshops, ranging from financial well-being to extreme sports as a path to personal growth, provided hands-on learning opportunities and fostered a sense of community among participants, resonating with Zumra's vision to establish a grassroots network of interconnected individuals. "Zeyara With Zumra" was a testament to Zumra's commitment to connecting individuals from all societal backgrounds, inspiring innovation and providing mutual benefit for all parties. Participants left with increased knowledge about a holistic approach to health, and the inspiration and connections needed to drive their entrepreneurial journey. For those who missed the event, stay connected and stay inspired by following @Zumragrp on Instagram. Let's continue to build a stronger community together! About Zumra Group: Zumra Group is at the forefront of building stronger and tighter knit communities in Qatar and the GCC. With a focus on entrepreneurship, Zumra aims to foster a sense of community and bring inspiration and innovation to every entrepreneur by establishing and nurturing valuable connections. Their motto "In numbers is strength," reflects their commitment to collective growth and mutual benefit. #Zumra

Entering its 7th anniversary, Dubai Opera extends its influence beyond the region to the global stage aDubai Opera, the premier performing arts centre in the United Arab Emirates, and a jewel in the crown of Emaar, one of the world's most esteemed and valued integrated real estate development firms, is thrilled to announce the inauguration of its new season, marking a continuous journey of artistic evolution since 2016. Since its inception, Dubai Opera has emerged as the epicentre for performing arts in the Middle East, radiating cultural excellence and welcoming audiences globally. Celebrating its 7th anniversary with more than 40 breathtaking performances, it has highlighted the elegance of operas, ballets, concerts, and musicals, enchanting millions of hearts. “As we embark on the new season, we are filled with immense pride in the remarkable artistic diversity that characterizes our lineup of performances and productions, catering to the entire community and bringing together prestigious companies and celebrated artists from around the world onto the stage of our exceptional venue,” says Dr Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera. “Dubai Opera continues to lead as an iconic ‘House of Cultures’, a vibrant and innovative hub, a meeting point where languages and cultures from across the globe intersect and meld daily, delivering a truly unparalleled and memorable experience to all audiences.” s an iconic “House of Cultures” #DubaiOpera

to the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 Qatar Airways Announced as Official Airline Partner of BWT Alpine F1 Team Qatar Airways, the 7-time World’s Best Airline, is now the Official Airline Partner of BWT Alpine F1 Team as part of a multi-year agreement and will be working together to promote the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023. The partnership comes after the announcement of Qatar Airways’ Official Airline and Global Partner with Formula 1®(F1®) earlier this year. The partnership will include specialised branding on the driver helmets and caps for the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023, along with various events held during the race weekend featuring the BWT Alpine F1 Team and Qatar Airways executives, cabin crew and the public. The airline partnership with BWT Alpine F1 Team showcases the airline’s continued commitment to promoting and expanding motorsport, both within Qatar and globally. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are proud to be partnering with the BWT Alpine F1 Team on a multi-year partnership to help us promote the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 and to deliver the best quality experiences for our passengers, customers, and fans who will be attending the Formula 1® race. Both of our organisations are committed to precision engineering and excellence to make the greatest technological advancements in our fields and to drive the most environmentally sustainable outcomes for our respective industries. We look forward to hosting the Formula 1® community at the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 and wish the BWT Alpine F1 Team all the best for the remainder of the season." David Gendry, Vice President, Alpine Sponsoring, Partnerships and Communications, said: “We are proud to team up with Qatar Airways, an incredible global airline that has such high standards. Both Alpine and Qatar Airways share the common objectives of a sustainable future and the use of sustainable fuels, in line with Formula 1®’s goal of becoming net zero by 2030. We look forward to a close collaboration that represents a unique opportunity for Alpine to further strengthen its presence in Qatar and to connect with fans in the region. The entire team is very much looking forward to visiting Qatar at the beginning of October for the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023.” To rev up the excitement and reflect its commitment to motorsport enthusiasts worldwide, the airline unveiled its new Formula 1® livery painted on a specially branded Boeing 777 aircraft. In just a few short weeks, motorsport fanatics will have the opportunity to watch their favourite teams and drivers push their cars to the limit at the Lusail International Circuit when F1® heads back to Qatar for the Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 from 6-8 October 2023. Fans can further elevate their race day experience with all-inclusive travel packages, allowing fans from around the world to attend the event and partake in exclusive experiences such as pit lane walks, guided track tours and access to special events with appearances by top F1® drivers. The Ultimate F1® Experience packages include return flights with Qatar Airways, premium hotel options, race tickets and other exciting experiences and benefits. To secure packages, customers can visit the dedicated link, qatarairways.com/F1. Both Qatar Airways, BWT Alpine F1 Team, and F1® are committed to working to reduce the environmental impact of their respective industries through responsible practices. As part of the partnership, both entities aim to collaborate on sustainability-focused initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and strive for a greener future. #QatarAirways #BWT #Alpine #F1

­­ Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 7 September 2023: This year's Arabic Music Days will focus on the oud, the unrivaled queen of Arabic music. Five days in September will honor the centuries-old tradition of the instrument as well as its role in contemporary culture. In concerts with the Ahmad Shamma Quartet, Islam Taha & The Cairo Oud House Trio, Sherine Tohamy & The Abu Dhabi Oud House Trio, and the Nehad El-Sayed Quintet, the short-necked lute will be heard in different settings—including an oud quartet a well as ensembles featuring saxophone or strings. For the festival’s finale, curator Naseer Shamma will lead a veritable oud orchestra. Many of the performers are representatives of the Oud Houses in Cairo and Abu Dhabi, which Shamma has established as teaching centers. Visual art, film, literature, craft, and poetry will provide additional perspectives on contemporary Arabic culture. As in previous years, a comprehensive program will amplify different voices of contemporary Arabic culture. In a workshop and exhibition, luthiers will provide insights into the craft of instrument-making. Artist and jewelry designer Azza Al Qubaisi creates sculptures out of gold, silver, wood, and steel. With references to the culture and nature of her homeland, the United Arab Emirates, her works reflect different aspects of her identity. Poets Fawziyya Abu Khalid (Saudi Arabia) and Lorca Sbeity (Lebanon) will accompany the concerts with readings of their works. All visitors of the Arabic Music Days will receive online access to stream Iraqi director Ahmed Yassin Al Daradji’s film Hanging Gardens on the digital platform of the Pierre Boulez Saal. Set in post-war Baghdad in the 2010’s, it recounts the coming-of-age story of 12-year-old Asad and his older brother. Naseer Shamma is among the world’s foremost players and teachers of the oud. He trained at the Music Academy in Baghdad with Iraqi grand master Munir Bashir and from 1993 taught for five years at the Conservatory in Tunis. In 1998 he founded the first Oud House in Cairo, a school dedicated entirely to his instrument. Other schools have subsequently opened in Abu Dhabi, Alexandria, Khartoum, Baghdad, and Riad. He has performed with musicians from a wide range of backgrounds, and in many of his projects combines traditions and instruments of classical Arabic music with those of Western music. In 2017, he was named a UNESCO Artist for Peace. As curator for the Arabic Music Days, he has been closely associated with the Pierre Boulez Saal since its opening. ­­­­ ­­­Concerts: September 13, 7:30 pm: Ahmad Shamma Quartet September 14, 7:30 pm: Islam Taha &The Cairo Oud House Trio September 15, 7:30 pm: Sherine Tohamy & The Abu Dhabi Oud House Trio September 16, 7:30 pm: Nehad El-Sayed Quintet September 17, 7:30 pm: Naseer Shamma & Mitglieder des 2350bc Orchestra Tickets are now available on the Pierre Boulez Saal website, at the box office, or by calling +49 30 4779 7411. #2023ArabicMusicDays

Continental, the leading German tyre and automotive technology company, has announced significant leadership changes within its Middle East operations. These changes aim to further strengthen the company's commitment to delivering exceptional products and services to its valued customers across the region. Continental is pleased to welcome back José De la Fuente as the Managing Director for the Middle East. De la Fuente brings a wealth of experience and expertise, having successfully led Continental's operations in Mexico for the past five years. His time in Mexico showcased outstanding leadership and strategic acumen contributing to the growth and success of the company in the region. As he returns to the Middle East, following his previous position as General Director for Tyres in Mexico, De la Fuente's dynamic leadership style and strategic vision are set to drive Continental’s continued success and innovation across the region. Upon his return, De la Fuente stated: "It is a privilege to rejoin the Middle East team and build upon the solid foundation that has already been established. The Middle East is a strategically important market for Continental, and I look forward to collaborating with our talented team to deliver pioneering solutions that meet the evolving needs of our dealers, customers, and strategic partners." To further strengthen the leadership team, Continental has announced the appointment of Dustine Gascoyne as Sales Director for Continental Middle East. Gascoyne assumes this role with a remarkable track record of accomplishments, having previously held the role of Managing Director Continental Tyre Saudi Arabia. His in-depth understanding of the regional market dynamics, coupled with his strong sales expertise, makes him the ideal leader to further drive Continental's market presence and customer relationships across the Middle East. Gascoyne commented: "I am honoured to take on this role and contribute to the growth of Continental in the Middle East. I am eager to work closely with our dedicated team to bring our customers and partners the highest quality products and services, fostering long-lasting relationships and driving the brand forward." These leadership changes come at a pivotal time for Continental as the company continues to focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across its diverse range of products and solutions. Continental would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Karel Kucera, the former Managing Director for the Middle East. Under Kucera's leadership, Continental achieved remarkable growth and established a strong regional market presence. Kucera's dedication and vision have significantly contributed to the success of Continental in the Middle East. As he takes on the new role of leading Continental's operations in Thailand, the company wishes him continued success in his endeavours. Juan Uruburu Alonso, the outgoing Head of Sales for Continental Middle East, will be stepping into the role of leading Continental Tyre Saudi Arabia, where he will continue to bring his expertise and energy to advance the company's presence in the Saudi market. Continental remains committed to its mission of delivering cutting-edge solutions and exceptional value to its customers. These leadership changes reflect the company's dedication to fostering growth and excellence in the Middle East region. #Continental

Strong performance under extreme conditions The vehicles in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet, which launched in February this year, have completed an intensive round of hot-weather testing in the United Arab Emirates for the first time. The car’s fuel cell drive system performed impressively in the face of temperatures rising to 45°C, as well as sand and dust, varying gradients and significant fluctuations in humidity. The highly efficient fuel cell system, the two hydrogen tanks, the electric motor and the power battery teamed up with the central vehicle control unit to demonstrate their outstanding performance and state of readiness. The Munich-based development team examined both the functionality of all the electric systems under the extreme conditions and the provision of the cooling power to enable the full performance of the vehicle. The vehicles were able to ensure the driving dynamics for which BMW is renowned. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen goes around the world Vehicles from the pilot fleet are currently in action in Europe, Japan, Korea, China, the USA and the Middle East. The aim is to shine a spotlight on the everyday usability of hydrogen-powered vehicles, and beyond that to gain important knowledge for the development of a potential series-produced model. The BMW Group is using the pilot fleet to provide support on a regional level for the development of a refuelling infrastructure which can be used with 700-bar refuelling technology across all categories of vehicle – from passenger cars and small vans to buses and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Synergies between different areas of application also offer important scope for developing a strong network of suppliers in hydrogen technology and reducing costs. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen combines long-distance capability and short refuelling stops with locally emission-free driving. Provided the relevant framework is in place, the hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to serve as another pillar in the BMW Group’s future drive system portfolio. As part of its ongoing transformation, the BMW Group is applying a “technology-open” approach when it comes to drive systems. The company is therefore adapting to different customer requirements, infrastructure standards and political and regulatory landscapes in the various regions of the world. This flexibility puts the BMW Group in the position to respond quickly to changing requirements in the markets in any situation and to present an attractive offer for as many customers as possible at all times. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen has a fuel cell system generating output of 125 kW/170 hp and a highly integrated drive unit using fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology (the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are grouped together in a compact housing). The output of the overall drive system is 295 kW / 401 hp. The hydrogen needed to power the fuel cell is stored in a pair of 700-bar tanks made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Together, these tanks can hold around six kilograms of hydrogen. This storage capacity gives the BMW iX5 Hydrogen a range of 504 km (313 miles) in the WLTP cycle. #BMWiX5Hydrogen

Iconic sports car adds track-ready NISMO grade The 2024 Nissan Z doubles down on thrilling performance with the return of Z NISMO, delivering an exhilarating track-ready experience for enthusiast drivers. The NISMO grade builds on the capabilities of the Nissan Z for those who seek more excitement and dynamic performance. Targeted enhancements amplify the precisely tuned Z to excite drivers of all abilities. Z NISMO elevates the iconic sports car’s performance with additional horsepower and torque, NISMO-tuned suspension and brakes, revised aerodynamic bodywork, stiffened suspension, and wider wheels with a more aggressive tire compound. Building on the equipment offered on the Nissan Z, interior enhancements include red-anodized engine-start and drive mode buttons, manual-adjust Recaro seats and a leather and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with a red marker at the 12 o’clock position. Mr. Nassim Mourani, General Manager Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Company, said: "With 420 horsepower and remarkable handling enhancements, the Z NISMO returns to make a bold statement on the road. Its NISMO-specific bodywork not only improves aerodynamic balance but also adds a touch of unmatched style. Enhanced with NISMO brakes, suspension, body rigidity, and more aggressive tires, this car is built to dominate the track and provide an unforgettable driving experience. We are thrilled to bring this ultimate icon to driving enthusiasts in Qatar. Get ready to unleash the thrill and excitement with the all-new 2024 Nissan Z NISMO!” Z NISMO design Exterior revisions to Z NISMO were specifically engineered to improve aerodynamic performance on the racetrack. As a result of the changes, Z NISMO produces positive downforce. The front of Z NISMO prominently features a styling element called the “Grand-Nose” or “G-Nose,” which extends farther forward than on other grades and recalls a similar design treatment on the heritage Nissan Fairlady 240ZG. The new front fascia also features a restyled grille opening with the thinnest honeycomb mesh of any Nissan production car. That mesh grille balances the need to reduce drag with permitting cool air to the engine bay. Canards at the car’s front corners create vortexes over the front wheels, further benefiting aerodynamic performance. A subtle red accent runs along the lower edge of the front fascia. Complementing the G-Nose is a taller, wider rear spoiler with a three-piece design that extends onto the rear fenders. The rear bumper corners are reshaped to aid with air separation and reduced drag; their shape is inspired by that on GT-R NISMO. A red accent runs from the lower edges of the rear fascia and above the exhaust outlets. Z NISMO’s redesigned side sills also help reduce aerodynamic drag and lift. Above the window line, Z NISMO further stands apart from other grades with a dark metallic gray version of the car’s signature katana-blade styling element. Additionally, it has a black-painted roof and gloss black 19-inch RAYS® wheels. Z NISMO’s bodywork is available in a choice of five colors: Black Diamond Pearl, Brilliant Silver, Passion Red TriCoat, Everest White Pearl TriCoat and NISMO-exclusive Stealth Grey. Elevated interior Nissan designers carefully enhanced the cabin of Z NISMO to amplify visual appeal without creating unnecessary visual “noise.” The engine start/stop and drive mode selection buttons are anodized red. The graphics in the fully digital TFT meter display feature a red outline around the tachometer, a NISMO logo and a special red “flash” during the start-up animation. Helping to secure the driver and passenger in place are Recaro seats finished in a combination of leather and Alcantara, with a red center section and NISMO logos in the headrests. A new steering wheel features leather and Alcantara trim, with a sporty, racing-inspired red accent mark at the 12 o’clock position. Targeted enhancements to twin-turbo engine Z NISMO takes the twin-turbo engine’s power outputs up to 420 horsepower and 520 NM of torque. Peak torque is delivered from 2,000 through 5,200 rpm, ensuring drivers have strong performance across the rev range. The engine’s horsepower enhancements were achieved through a combination of improved cooling, revised electronic wastegate control providing increased turbocharger boost and turbine speed, and an independent ignition spark timing strategy inspired by GT-R NISMO. Z NISMO also features an enhanced engine oil cooler for extended track performance. More dynamic shifting with Sport+ mode Z NISMO exclusively uses a nine-speed automatic transmission that has been enhanced for faster and more dynamic shifting performance, with a particular focus on suitability for track use. Compared to the transmission in other Z grades, it has revised clutch packs allowing for faster shifting. Along with revised engine management software, Z NISMO’s transmission has reduced downshift time by almost half. Launch control also delivers more aggressive standing-start acceleration. In addition to Normal and Sport, Z NISMO adds a new Sport+ drive mode. This delivers a more dynamic, racetrack-tuned shift program for circuit driving, taking advantage of the powertrain’s faster downshift capability. The shift programming is designed to be so responsive for performance driving that a driver does not need to use the shift paddles on track – though fast-responding manual shifting is always available. Enhanced suspension and tires NISMO engineers revised every element of the car’s suspension to optimize precision, predictability and cornering grip. Z NISMO has unique stabilizer bars, a stiffer spring rate and larger, retuned dampers. The overarching tuning ethos was to deliver accurate, “one-shot” steering that helps drivers to pick their line through a turn with a minimum of steering adjustment needed, contributing to confident track-ready performance. To deliver maximum road feel and traction, Z NISMO wears Dunlop® SP SPORT MAXX GT600 tires, a version of which are also used on GT-R. The rear tires measure 10 millimeters wider. The tires are fitted to lightweight, NISMO-specific, gloss black RAYS 19-inch wheels. Although the wheels are 0.5 inch wider than the 19-inch wheels on Nissan Z, their advanced construction means the NISMO-specific wheels are slightly lighter. Stiffened chassis Comprehensive chassis revisions to Z NISMO begin with bracing and stiffening measures that help the car faithfully track and respond to the increased cornering forces enabled by Z NISMO’s tires. Enhancements include additional front, rear and rear underfloor bracing, helping increase torsional rigidity by 2.5% compared to the standard grades. Stiffer front and rear suspension bushings, and a stiffer mounting bushing for the steering rack, further increase lateral rigidity. Track-enhanced brake system Engineers enhanced the Z NISMO braking system, upgrading the front brakes to larger, 15.0-inch rotors matched to 13.8-inch rear brake rotors, and equipping a more performance-focused brake pad compound. The changes are intended to improve Z’s impressive brake pedal feel and enhance braking performance in extended track use scenarios. 2024 Nissan Z keeps sports car excitement alive All 2024 Nissan Z models include a range of standard driver assistance and safety technologies, including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist and Intelligent Forward Collision Warning. For full details on the features included on each grade level, see the full specifications sheet. #NissanZNISMO #Nissan