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A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY THROUGH WELLNESS, NATURE, CULTURE, AND MUSIC AlUla Moments announced today the return of the much-anticipated AlUla Wellness Festival 2023, taking place from October 19th to November 04th. The two-weeks flagship festival is dedicated to promoting mind, body, and wellness and offers a diverse array of holistic workshops and activities inspired by AlUla's rich historical and natural heritage. Featuring an extensive calendar of curated programs, this year's edition will showcase a multitude of activities developed in collaboration with world-class industry leaders. The third edition of the AlUla Wellness Festival promises unparalleled holistic offerings, guiding participants and attendees towards physical, mental, and emotional balance and alignment. Boasting an extensive calendar of workshops, events, and engaging activations, this year’s festival assures an enriching experience through a journey of Wellness, Culture, Art, and Music. Commenting of the festival launch, Rami Al Mouallim, Vice President, Royal Commission of AlUla said: “Reflecting on the remarkable journey since the inception of the AlUla Wellness Festival grand opening in October 2020, we take immense pride in curating events that celebrate the beauty and essence of every season in AlUla. Today, AlUla stands as a refined and sophisticated destination, with an unrivaled blend of heritage, culture, arts, and adventure that captivates our visitors from all corners of the world.” Return of the ‘Five Senses Sanctuary’ This year’s edition of the AlUla Wellness Festival will also see the return of the highly anticipated 'Five Senses Sanctuary', the region’s leading retreat for wellness practices, yoga, physical and, as the centerpiece experience. The third iteration of the sanctuary is curated to engage and stimulate all five senses, immersing attendees in a holistic journey of self-discovery and personal transformation. Building on the success of previous editions, this year's sanctuary will feature an expanded array of opportunities to an impressive list of yogi celebrities, motivational speakers, engaging workshops, musical performances. Inspired by the culturally rich history of AlUla, the sanctuary will cater to corporate groups, friends, and families seeking both fun and healthy bonding experiences. A Transformative Journey A one-of-a-kind wellness festival nestled in the enchanting landscapes of AlUla, this year's AlUla Wellness Festival boasts a distinguished lineup of world-class industry experts, including fitness trainers and yoga teachers, who will guide participants on a journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation. Visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse array of wellness activities, such as yoga classes, meditation courses, and personalized mental health coaching sessions. A special emphasis on detoxifying the mind, body, and soul is woven into the festival's fabric, providing attendees with the tools to embrace a renewed sense of vitality. Set amidst the breathtaking historical site of AlUla, attendees can also enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking experiences to stargazing at night. Moreover, the festival offers revitalizing sunrise and sunset yoga and meditation classes for mindful contemplation. Further entertainment and a full list of activities will be announced in due course. For more information on AlUla Wellness Festival 2023. #ALULA

ON A MYSTERY FLIGHT TO AN UNKNOWN DESTINATION Exciting competition returns, due to overwhelming demand, for adventure seekers to #GetLostwithWizz Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the ultra-low-fare national airline of the UAE, today launches the return of the hugely anticipated and popular ‘#GetLostwithWizz’ competition for adventurous travellers in the UAE. This unforgettable experience encourages spontaneous travellers to live life to the fullest and create lifelong memories in an unknown destination in the ever-expanding Wizz Air Abu Dhabi network. A special Wizz Air plane full of excitement will take flight to an undisclosed destination, where lucky competition winners will spend the weekend ‘getting lost’ in a rich culture, exploring the very best of the natural and diverse beauty of a Wizz Air destination. The flight will depart from Abu Dhabi on Thursday 21 September in the evening and return on Sunday 24 September 2023. The highly in-demand competition to win a seat opens today, and to be in for the chance of winning, applicants must have their profile public and follow @WizzAir on Instagram, share a post on Instagram of their most memorable travel moment, and tag @WizzAir with the hashtag #GetLostwithWizz by midnight on 10 September 2023. Hopeful participants must share creative, adventurous, exciting, or humorous pictures, with the standout posts with the highest engagement standing the best chance of winning a ticket. Winners will receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embark on the thrill of the unknown together with one travel partner, with both travellers receiving free flight tickets, two nights’ accommodation, and travel insurance. The competition starts at 18:00 GST on 30 August and closes at 23:59 GST on 10 September. In order to be eligible, entrants must have a public profile and follow @WizzAir on Instagram. Full details and the terms and conditions can be found on Wizz Air Instagram on the following link [https://www.instagram.com/p/CwkwOLHslS2/]. Check out the full video of the previous action-packed weekend here – [https://youtu.be/391DZte7yfs] Johan Eidhagen, Managing Director of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, said: “We are committed to providing exciting, adventurous and unique travel opportunities and the ‘#GetLostwithWizz’ competition shares our love of spontaneous travel. We are very excited to launch the competition for places for this special flight to an unmissable, yet unknown destination for a packed weekend full of incredible travel experiences. The ever-expanding Wizz Air Abu Dhabi network includes vibrant cities and natural paradises throughout Europe, Africa and Central Asia with a plethora of exotic, culturally rich, and diverse destinations. We look forward to welcoming the adventure seekers on board soon for a weekend that will live long in the memory.” Passengers can book tickets with confidence, thanks to WIZZ Flex. With WIZZ Flex, passengers can change their flight up to three hours before departure without any fee and receive 100% of the fare immediately reimbursed in airline credit. Strategically located in the UAE, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi provides ultra-low-fares and efficient travel options to Alexandria (Egypt), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Amman (Jordan), Ankara (Turkey), Aqaba (Jordan), Athens (Greece), Baku (Azerbaijan), Belgrade (Serbia), Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Cairo (Egypt) and Dammam (Saudi Arabia). As well as routes to Kuwait City (Kuwait), Kutaisi (Georgia), Larnaca (Cyprus), Manama (Bahrain), Male (Maldives), Madinah (Saudi Arabia), Muscat (Oman), Nur Sultan (Kazakhstan), Salalah (Oman), Santorini (Greece), Samarkand (Uzbekistan), Sarajevo (Bosnia), Sohag (Egypt), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), Tel-Aviv (Israel), Tirana (Albania) and Yerevan (Armenia) among others. #WIZZ

The UAE-grown Madinat Jumeirah collaborated with CH Carolina Herrera, bringing together the local heritage with modern style while recognising the Emirati female’s contributions to better the future for coming generations In celebration of Emirati Women's Day, Madinat Jumeirah, the epitome of modern Arabian hospitality, has partnered with esteemed fashion brand CH Carolina Herrera to host an exclusive gathering of inspiring Emirati female entrepreneurs for an event that embodied elegance, empowerment, and cultural fusion. The exclusive panel was held at the prestigious Royal Malakiya Villa, which reopened its doors for the first time to the public following the recent redesign and enhancement. The panel discussion paid tribute to the remarkable achievements and contributions of Emirati women who were showcased in a luxurious setting blending the world of fashion and Emirati heritage. The guests were involved in empowering discussions delivered by prominent Emirati women who have made significant strides in various fields. Moderated by presenter and Founder of RR&CO Luxury, Rosemin Madhavji, the panel featured a group of recognised Emirati personalities and speakers, including Abeer Alshaali, Deputy Managing Director at Gulf Craft Inc., Zeinab Alhashemi, a Conceptual Emirati Artist, Rowdha Ahmad Alsayegh, an Emirati Creative Director, and Alanoud Alhashmi, Chief Executive Officer at The Futurist Company. Delivering the opening speech at the event, Peter Roth, Regional Vice President, Madinat Jumeirah and General Manager, Jumeirah Al Qasr said: “It was our privilege to host so many inspirational women in recognition of Emirati Women’s Day, and to partner with CH Carolina Herrera to provide a platform for dialogue as the UAE celebrates the many talented women shaping its future. Hosted in our newly unveiled Royal Malakiya Villa and with catering from our Parisian pastry boutique Margaux, we were able to set the stage for a memorable gathering that will undoubtedly stand as a testament to our shared values of empowerment and collaboration." Welcoming the brand to this hospitable space, CH Carolina Herrera’s Senior Marketing Manager shared,“It was with great joy that we joined hands with the esteemed Madinat Jumeirah group to celebrate the legacy of women in our beloved United Arab Emirates, especially given the centricity of women to our brand and founder, Mrs. Herrera. This celebration, hosted in the beautiful Royal Malakiya, sets a tone for our upcoming initiatives for CH Carolina Herrera, focused around celebrating the vibrant culture and heritage of the Middle East”, says Marine Fabbricino. Revitalising an exquisite culinary journey, guests also indulged in an exclusive spread of international delicacies inspired by the CH Carolina Herrera brand in collaboration with Margaux, Madinat Jumeirah’s Parisian-inspired pastry boutique, which were thoughtfully curated to tantalise taste buds and celebrate the fusion of the event. #EMIRATIWOMENSDAY

of Arabic Literature and Reading Qatar National Library is hosting an exhibition dedicated to the timeless Arabic literary masterpiece Hayy Ibn Yaqdhan, as part of the nationwide ‘One Book, One Doha’ campaign by Qatar Reads. The annual reading campaign brings the community together to share an appreciation of Arabic literature and promote a love for reading. The influential Hayy Ibn Yaqdhan, written by the philosopher Ibn Tufail in the early 12th century, is Qatar Reads’ selection for this year. Visitors are immersed in the fascinating narrative of Hayy’s life growing up in isolation on a deserted island, making the exhibition a uniquely enriching way to experience the power of reading. The interactive, engaging exhibition has already proved popular since it opened, with school groups and young visitors from the Qatar Foundation Ability Friendly Summer Camp enjoying specially curated exhibits that bring the story to life. Highlighting the transformative phases of Hayy’s development, the exhibition delves into the book’s different themes, such as the relationship between man and nature. A dedicated section highlights the significance of sustainability and its relevance to Hayy’s journey and survival on the island, as well as broader contemporary implications. Frequently published and translated, the classical book has had an enduring influence for centuries. Highlighting some of these efforts, the Library showcases three distinguished Qatari publishers who rewrote the iconic story, as part of this year’s ‘One Book, One Doha’ campaign, for different age groups: Dar Nabjah for children, HBKU Press for young adults, and Dar AlWatad for adults. The exhibition has several interactive elements. Visitors can walk through a timeline of Hayy’s life, vividly depicted in original paintings from the Dar Nabjah edition. A historical showcase focuses on literary heritage, giving visitors the chance to view original copies of the book in Arabic, English, and Dutch, sourced from the Library’s prestigious heritage collection. There are activities for all ages and the knowledge test is a fun quiz for anyone wanting to test their understanding of Hayy’s story. Encouraging the community to take part, Fatima Al Malki, Director of the Qatar Reads initiative, said: “The Hayy Ibn Yaqdhan Exhibition brings to life a powerful story, rich with messages to inspire and nurture a deep appreciation for Arabic literature and reading. Beyond this, it’s a chance to connect and share unique perspectives with others and be part of establishing a vibrant reading culture in Qatar. We encourage everyone to come and visit the exhibition.” “Hayy Ibn Yaqdhan” is open to the public during the Library’s normal hours until 12 September. For more information, please visit the Library’s website at www.qnl.qa/en/events or the QNL mobile app, which is free and available to download from the App Store or from Google Play. #QatarNationalLibrary

CREWQ Jr secured the 7th Place in the U14 Beginners, and CREWQ Sr won 4th Place in the U18 Novice Category of the UDO World Championship 2023 in UK. CREWQ brought pride and honor again to Qatar with CREWQ Jr and CREWQ Sr bring off the Bronze Medals in the U14 Beginner and U18 Novice Categories, at the UDO WORLD Championship 2023 held at Blackpool, United Kingdom. With over 35 nations represented and 4,000 dancers taking the stage, the competition was intense. Among the contestants were talented teams from European and Asian Championship winners who have showed a strong fights. Through profound performances of CREWQ Jr and CREWQ Sr claimed remarkable Bronze medal. During the Preliminary round of the U14 Beginners Division, CREWQ JR led the way, landing in 6th Place and powered their way into the Semi Finals as 3rd. CREWQ Sr triumphs continued placing also 3rd rank preliminary and secured in Finals in the U18 Novice category. Both teams secured a notable Bronze medals per UDO World Championship classification. The total score result from Preliminary to Finals can be viewed on UDO official website: udostreetdance.com This ambitious achievement showcases the immense talent of Youth illuminating the Qatar on the world stage and adding to the establishing list of accomplishments that give dance community of Doha a reason to celebrate. Congratulations CREWQ. #UDOWORLDCHAMPIONSHIP2023

With the academic year underway, the Library’s events will enrich educational and cultural pursuits As the new academic year starts, Qatar National Library is presenting an array of activities that will enhance the pursuit of educational and professional advancement, along with a rich program celebrating culture and music. Kicking off the month, “Chat Smarter: Academic Writing with ChatGPT” on 3 September invites university students to an interactive conversation exploring ethical ChatGPT use in academic writing and research. The session will offer practical exercises in prompt writing and focus on the importance of fact-checking. On the same day, a lecture titled “From Traditional to Generative AI” delves into the transformative impact of AI-driven applications for major industries. Speakers will examine the underlying technology, benefits, and challenges. The Library’s Science Book Forum on 5 September also probes “Creative Uses of AI in Education.” The discussion explores tools like tutoring systems and adaptive learning platforms to address AI’s role in enhancing teaching and learning experiences, promoting personalized education, and overcoming educational barriers, with a focus on ethical considerations. Meanwhile, “Artificial Intelligence and Religious Values” on 6 September evaluates the opportunities and challenges created by the AI revolution in relation to religion. The “QNL Engage Podcast” continues with lifestyle coach Asmaa Al-Kuwari discussing work-life balance on 3 September, followed by Dr. Khaled Al-Namaa's exploration of mental health in “Overcoming Stereotypical Perceptions of Mental Health in Our Societies”, on 10 September. Mohammed Al-Haidar, Empowerment and Competency Building Consultant, addresses “Self-awareness as a Powerful Foundation for Successful Parenting” on 17 September. The “Mommy to Be Speaker Series” offers insights on breastfeeding when returning to work, with a talk by Rawan Hasanain, Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Specialist, on 5 September. Nurturing children’s love for reading, the Najem Es’hail Book Club in English meets on 10 September for the first of three weekly sessions. The Library hosts the “Doha Workshop on Countering the Trafficking of Cultural Property and Documentary Heritage” in mid-September. The workshop program on 12-13 September gathers international experts to address challenges and develop strategies against cultural property trafficking and concludes with training for customs officers from Qatar and the region. “Experience Filipino Heritage: A Journey of Discovery on Culture, Arts and Talents” on 15 September is a celebration and cultural showcase in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy Cultural Envoy and the Philippines International School Qatar. On 17 September, “Qalamy”, a short story writing workshop for pupils in grades five and six, fosters creative writing skills. The invitation-only event will be led by author Sheikha Al-Ziyara and artist Wafa Al-Shami. The Parenting Book Club discusses The Joy of My Life on 19 September with the author Dr. Hadeel Al-Faras, Developmental Pediatric Consultant, and with Educational and Family Advisor, Ghaya Salah. Limited copies of the book are available to borrow from the User Services Desk. The month concludes with “Philharmonic at the Library” on 27 September, featuring “Golden Oldies” with the CineMoon Ensemble, a member of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. Among other songs, the program will showcase music from Charlie Chaplin’s movies, including short clips and a karaoke rendition of the Chaplin song “Smile”. To learn about the full program, please visit the Events page on the Library’s website (www.qnl.qa/en/events) or download the QNL mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. #QatarNationalLibrary

The partnership marks a milestone on the road to boosting sustainability efforts in Qatar, the central theme of Expo 2023 Doha. In partnership with the developer of the world's first sustainable downtown regeneration project, Expo 2023 Doha will showcase the future of sustainable living in Qatar and attract more than 3 million visitors from around the world. Expo 2023 Doha is delighted to announce a new landmark partnership with Msheireb Properties, elevating the real estate developer as the official Sustainable City for the highly anticipated global event. Concluded at a signing ceremony held today, the partnership agreement was sealed between Mr. Mohammed Ali Al Khouri, Secretary General of Expo 2023, and Msheireb Properties’ CEO Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari. The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, Minister of Municipality. Scheduled to commence on 2 October 2023, Expo 2023 Doha will provide a platform for innovation, collaboration and global dialogue centred on sustainability. The partnership with Msheireb Properties will elevate Qatar’s commitment to sustainable development and provide a tangible look into the future through the lens of the pioneering Msheireb Downtown Doha project. Msheireb Properties, a pioneering force in sustainable real estate, will play an instrumental role in supporting Expo 2023 Doha’s overarching mission of fostering sustainable practices and addressing global challenges. The partnership further aligns seamlessly with Qatar’s dedication to advancing sustainability across all facets of society and industry. As part of the partnership, Msheireb Properties’ role as the Official Sustainable City will encompass several key initiatives, including a tour programme presenting the tangible achievements of Msheireb Downtown Doha, a hallmark project renowned for its innovative approach to urban development and sustainable living. In addition, Msheireb Properties will also provide marketing and communication services as well as brand exposure campaigns for Expo 2023 Doha. “We are thrilled to welcome Msheireb Properties as our Official Sustainable City for Expo 2023 Doha. Their expertise and dedication to sustainable urban development perfectly align with the core values of our event. Together, we aim to create a lasting impact, inspire change, and pave the way for a more sustainable future,” said Eng. Mohammed Ali Al Khouri, commenting on this significant step. "Our support for Expo 2023 Doha is rooted in Msheireb Properties' core belief that sharing knowledge and experiences among peers and counterparts in the field of sustainable building, construction and urban planning is crucial to successfully facing the environmental challenges that lie ahead. We welcome the world to see how Msheireb Downtown Doha has pushed the boundaries of urban planning by integrating local heritage and innovation to create a smart, sustainable city of the future”, said Msheireb Properties’ CEO Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari. Expo 2023 Doha and Msheireb Properties invite audiences from around the world to join them in this journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Expo 2023 Doha and Msheireb Properties, together, contribute to paving the way towards urban sustainability and innovation to be a source of inspiration for future generations. #MsheirebProperties

A premium fashion e-commerce platform, IZEL launches in the UAE. Offering a stunning array of modern and elegant modest wear, the brand caters to women across the globe. The sophisticated design range includes abayas, blazers, co-ord Sets, shirts, pants, and dresses for today’s fashion-forward women. Each piece of clothing is a masterpiece, handcrafted with a blend of intricate embroideries, colored stones, and exquisite embellishments in a range of subtle and classy hues. Founded by the talented duo Hafna and Ziya, IZEL was born with an aim to cater to women who seek stylish yet modest options and experience limited availability. Their shared vision is to empower women and enable them to exude confidence in expressing their best looks with elegance and grace. The brand offers a wide range of styles, from classic and traditional to modern and trendy, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The clothing is designed to be easy to mix and match, making it perfect for any occasion, whether casual or formal. The brand offers diverse silhouettes to accommodate a variety of styles and suit all body shapes and sizes. Speaking on the launch, Hafna Sakhaf, Co-Founder and Managing Director at IZEL said, “We are super excited to be a part of such a premium and diverse fashion market that is known for its glamour. At IZEL, we cater to all women without compromising on style as well as comfort. Our clothing line includes vogue trends and designs suitable for every woman’s taste. Fashion is what defines these women and we wish to be a part of their dazzling personality.” Ziya Mariyam, Co-Founder and Managing Director at IZEL expressed her excitement, “At IZEL, we want to create a statement that is modest and modern at the same time. Trends are continuously evolving considering multi-cultural residents present in this region and women don’t want to miss out on them. IZEL is for those women who want to move forward but in a classy and modest style.” IZEL’s team is bringing their passion to reality and aiming to empower women through their venture. From the design process to the production, women are involved in every aspect of the brand’s operations. Not only does this ensure that the clothing is designed with a female perspective in mind that understands unique tastes and preferences, but also creates a supportive work environment for the company’s employees. IZEL’s designs can be found at www.izelfashion.com and are available for shipping worldwide. For daily updates about the brand, please visit @izel.fashion #IZEL

AlUla Desert Blaze The sold-out inaugural AlUla Desert Blaze, which took place on Saturday, 26th August, 2023, has been deemed a resounding success with an impressive turnout of 174 runners. Hailing from all around the globe, runners from 39 nations faced the ultimate racing challenge during the hottest month of the year amidst the ancient monuments and breathtaking desert landscape of AlUla. The first edition of AlUla Desert Blaze showcased the spirit of endurance and sporting camaraderie to establish the Saudi city as a burgeoning destination for premier sporting events. Elite male and female runners from as far afield as Ethiopia, Morocco, Spain, Germany and Oman, embarked on a first of its kind experience as temperatures soared to 43 degrees Celsius, making AlUla Desert Blaze one of the most demanding endurance races within the GCC, and on a par with similar extreme global challenges. Rami Almoallim, Vice President of Destination Management & Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: "As with any ambitious first endeavour, we spent a considerable amount of time prior to the race giving thought as to how AlUla Desert Blaze would unfold, especially considering that runners would be challenged by some of the toughest conditions in the region. I take great pride in stating that the event surpassed all expectations, a testament to our belief in AlUla as an exceptional sporting destination and a tribute to the remarkable athletes who came here to be part of it. “It was awe-inspiring to witness the spirit of AlUla Desert Blaze burn bright within the global athletes who took on this challenge with unwavering determination to demonstrate their passion for pushing themselves to the absolute limit. The success of this sporting event adds a new chapter to AlUla's legacy, inviting adventurers, sportspeople and enthusiasts alike to become part of AlUla’s extraordinary voyage of achievement, discovery and exploration." Spanning distances of 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km, athletes of varying fitness levels pushed themselves to their physical and mental limits to emerge victorious. Winners across the categories included Hana Zemedkun from Ethiopia, who secured her triumph in the 42km female category with a time of 3:00:29, and Chakib Lachgar, who claimed victory in the 42km male race winning in 2:23:39. Malika Benderbal from Algeria triumphed in 1:21:42 in the 21km female category, while Robert Kimutai Ngeno from Kenya stood out in the 21km male category for his time of 1:05:09. Ruth Danies Albert Jbet from Bahrain and Yousef Al Asiri from Saudi Arabia clinched victories in the 10km adult female and male races respectively. Canada’s Carla Korpijaakko and Saudi Arabia’s Abdulaziz Al Ghamdi earned top accolades in the 5km adult female and male categories. Tia Watson from the UK, and Amin Noor from Afghanistan were victorious in the 10km junior female and male races respectively, while Saudi’s Mohammed Al Mutairi took the top prize in the 5km junior male category. Young Tia Watson ran as part of Team Angel Wolf, the well-known racing team made up of her parents Nick and Delphine Watson, and her brother Rio, who has a rare chromosomal disorder. As a family, they have championed inclusivity by participating with Rio in competitions across the globe. They said: “When you have an adult child with disabilities and travel, especially somewhere new, it is always filled with natural worry, concern and apprehension on logistics. But we have to say our visit to AlUla blew us away and proved that any of our concerns were completely unneeded. From the moment we landed in AlUla, we could see and feel how welcomed, accepted and embraced our son Rio was by the people of AlUla. “We made our participation in AlUla Desert Blaze a real inclusive team effort. Nick, Delphine and Tia pushed Rio in his disability running chair around the 10km trail track. Rio absolutely LOVED this race, he was so happy being amongst all the other participants and treated as an equal athlete, being in such beautiful natural surroundings and doing his passion in life - inclusive racing. The race was very well organised, with a fun sport spirit. We loved this race and would definitely want to return to participate again … it should be on every athlete's ‘must do race wishlist’! Seasoned runner Loui Blake, who has previously participated in four ultra-marathons and two marathons, was thrilled to complete AlUla Desert Blaze’s 42km race. He said: “The AlUla Desert Blaze experience was truly unique. The landscape is unlike any I have ever seen, which made the race itself so much more enjoyable despite the challenging temperatures. It was incredibly well-organised and supported, and I loved the fact that there were ice baths available at the end! I will definitely be back next year.” Avid marathoner Mohammed Dakhil, who has a half marathon, a full marathon and one ultra 50K trail run under his belt, was pleased to add AlUla Desert Blaze to his list of accomplishments. He said: “This to me was much more than a 42k run, this was a chance for me to push my physical and mental capacity and truly explore the unfamiliar territory of running for an extended period of time in extremely hot weather under the August sun. “Not to mention a perfectly designed route, which presented us with various challenging hills, picturesque backdrop, breathtaking landscape, and unexplainable energy that I truly believe does not exist anywhere but in AlUla’s rock formations. This event was exceptional and a true testament to what it means to far surpass expectations. Gratitude to the Royal Commission for AlUla, organisers, medics, and ushers for curating this unparalleled experience and I can't wait to be back for the next one.” Set amidst the visually stunning landscape of the historic region of AlUla, the route saw athletes traversing opposite the ancient monuments of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. As temperatures soared, the safety of participants remained paramount, with comprehensive medical services and facilities widely available to runners; safety measures included paramedics, nurses, physiotherapists, and water stations every 2.5km, alongside replenishment stations stationed at every 5km point with ice buckets, hydration drinks, gels, fruits, and snacks. AlUla Desert Blaze is the latest in an exciting roster of sports events that take advantage of the city’s unique landscape, which includes sandstone cliffs, lush oases, and fertile farmlands. From hosting the AlUla Camel Cup and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup to the prestigious Saudi Tour, AlUla has championed sustainable development across its sports and adventure offerings, paving the way for a future filled with exceptional experiences. #AlUlaDesertBlaze

In a first for the region, Qatar National Library partners with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions to strengthen library services and enhance regional collaboration Qatar National Library has been designated as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Office for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), marking a historic first for the region. The announcement was ratified on the sidelines of the 88th edition of the IFLA General Conference and Assembly in Rotterdam. The announcement comes as a testament to the Library’s achievements over the years, particularly in providing insights into questions of equal access, creativity, and cultural development, further cementing the Library’s position as a leading cultural institution. Ms. Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library, said: “We are truly privileged to have been chosen as the first IFLA Regional Office for the MENA region. We see this as acknowledgement of Qatar National Library’s continuous efforts in advocating for the work of libraries in the region. Together with IFLA, we are excited to collaborate with regional colleagues to strengthen the library field.” Abeer Al Kuwari, Director of Research and Learning at Qatar National Library, added, “This designation is not merely an honor but a responsibility that we embrace with great enthusiasm. It highlights the Library’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange, creativity, and inclusivity. Our collaboration with IFLA allows us to take these initiatives to a regional level, aligning with our broader goals for positive societal impact." IFLA, the leading international body representing the interests of library and information services and their users, said that Qatar National Library's involvement would contribute to ongoing efforts to bolster regional activities and to strengthen connections with key stakeholders across the MENA region. Since its inauguration in 2017, Qatar National Library has been instrumental in promoting international cultural exchange, deepening understanding between nations and their citizens. Its track record includes organizing over 3,000 events attended by more than 150,000 individuals. In IFLA's recent announcement, they emphasized the crucial role regional offices play in strengthening regional and national library sectors. With collaborative action plans set to unfold soon, both IFLA and Qatar National Library anticipate a fruitful partnership that will enhance regional library landscapes. #QatarNationalLibrary

MEEZA, the leading managed IT and data center service provider in Qatar, has successfully listed its shares on Qatar Stock Exchange's (QSE) main market on August 23, 2023, in the presence of a group of distinguished guests, MEEZA top management, representatives from regulatory and supervisory authorities, investors and other stakeholders. The bell rang at 9:30 am to mark the commencement of MEEZA’s shares trading on the Qatar Stock Exchange. The company was listed with the ticker MEZA with the ISIN code QA000PK2KD10 following a successful subscription for its shares through Initial Public Offer (IPO). MEEZA targets a share capital of QAR 648,980,000, comprising 648,980,000 shares with a nominal value of QAR 1.00 per share. The first day of trading in MEEZA stock closed at a price of 2.30 Qatari Riyals, representing a market capitalization of 1.49 billion Qatari Riyals. From the first day of trading, eligible investors for trading in the shares include all Qatari and non-Qatari investors permitted to trade in the shares in accordance with the Qatar Stock Exchange Rulebook, the Qatar Financial Market Authority Listing Rules, and the Qatar Central Bank regulations. Commenting on the successful listing, Sheikh Hamad bin Abdullah Al Thani, MEEZA Chairman, said: “Today marks a significant milestone in the MEEZA transformation journey as the company’s shares were successfully listed for trading on the Main Market of Qatar Stock Exchange. This unprecedented step in the managed end-to-end IT services sector will give the investment community a promising investment option to grow their wealth and contribute to Qatar’s digital economy industry. I also take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to all the regulatory and supervisory authorities for their cooperation that culminated in this achievement, which will enhance MEEZA’s exceptional track record.” Eng. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Muslemani, MEEZA Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am elated today to see MEEZA successfully listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange main market. This milestone will provide a great opportunity for us to bolster the Company’s already strong capital by increasing its shareholder base, which will support its ambitious growth and development targets. MEEZA’s transformation to a publicly listed company provides an opportunity for the investors to take part in the Company’s journey and achievements, as it looks to continue its strong financial performance and revenue growth.” MEEZA, a Qatar Foundation joint venture, is an established end-to-end Managed IT services and solutions provider based in Qatar with the mission of becoming the leading provider in the Middle East and North Africa. MEEZA is helping accelerate the growth of Qatar and the region through the provision of world-class Managed IT Services and Solutions. #MEEZA #QatarStockExchange

“Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is a love story, thoughtfully captured and stunningly projected onto the canvas of a Rolls-Royce motor car. It is an expression of the deep and passionate partnership between a husband and wife who are the heads of a prominent international family - to be part of their remarkable story is a privilege. Furthermore, La Rose Noire Droptail stands as a testament to our brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection, where artistry and the vision of a single client truly harmonise. In every detail of this historic commission, there are echoes of both Rolls-Royce’s rich heritage and the commissioning clients' character, from its captivating yet formidable form to its flawless and elegant romantic gestures. La Rose Noire Droptail, like the remarkable clients who dared to make such a potent and contemporary statement, will be written into Rolls-Royce history forever.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail stands as one of the most progressive expressions of Rolls-Royce Coachbuild ever conceived. In capturing the romantic and glamorous spirit of the commissioning clients, our design team explored bold new artisanal processes and highly complex creative gestures in their pursuit of a deeply personal language of luxury. The remarkable execution of the wood elements of La Rose Noire Droptail in particular are a clear statement that time-honoured exquisite crafts have a place at the pinnacle of modern design. Indeed, the ambition of the marque’s clients, and the peerless capabilities of its designers signal a long and exciting future for Rolls-Royce Coachbuild and its standing as the leading creative force in applied art at its highest level.“ Anders Warming, Design Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is glamour distilled. The guiding inspiration for this dark, bold and powerful commission was the Black Baccara rose, which was a significant point of affection for the client and a source of fascination for the design team. Its rich and complex character informed our creative exploration, influencing the palette, composition, and intricate detailing of the motor car. It led us to blend radically modern design concepts with age-old exquisite craft techniques, while using materials that subtly reinforce the clients’ deep connection to France. Our shared commitment to shaping a meaningful and progressive design statement have culminated in a deeply significant expression of the patron’s character and a new pinnacle for contemporary craftsmanship.” Alex Innes, Head of Coachbuild Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars LA ROSE NOIRE: THE FIRST DROPTAIL Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is privileged to present Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, a dark, daring and dramatic coachbuilt masterpiece, symbolising the distillation of experiences, significant moments and objets d’art cherished by its owners – an international family that exemplifies connoisseurship and luxury of the very highest order. Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is inspired by the allure of the Black Baccara rose, an intense, velvet-like flower that originates in France. The dark pomegranate colour of its petals appears almost black in shade, but in direct light, a red, pearlescent shimmer is revealed on the dark surface. These two colours form the primary palette of La Rose Noire Droptail. The first red shade is named ‘True Love’ in recognition of the romance the client wished to capture in this commission. The darker tone is named ‘Mystery’, inspired by the mysterious nature of the rose, which appears to change colour when viewed from different angles. The exterior coachwork is finished in the lustrous True Love red, and like the Black Baccara rose, appears to change colour depending on the point it is examined from. To achieve this rich variation, surface finish specialists developed a completely new paint process, which was perfected over 150 careful iterations. The commissioning clients’ passion for detail is exemplified on La Rose Noire Droptail’s Pantheon grille vanes. In a discreet embellishment, True Love paint is hand-applied as an accent on the reverse surface of the vanes themselves - a refined detail that is only visible by way of indirect reflection. This subtle flourish continues into the intricate lower front air intake. This highly detailed piece was digitally designed and 3D printed in a lightweight composite and incorporates 202 hand-polished stainless-steel ingots, each hand-painted in the True Love hue. Another significant exterior element is the treatment of the striking alloy wheels. Featuring the dark Mystery paint, from afar the finish appears to be black, but upon closer examination, the sunlight reveals shimmering dark red undertones. The duotone theme also extends into the motor car’s brightwork with its dark finish, named Hydroshade due to its liquid quality, having been developed specifically for this project. A removable hard top has been designed to give Droptail two distinct characters: without its roof Droptail is a lithe, open-top roadster; with the roof installed, it becomes a formidable and dramatic coupé. The completely Bespoke roof also features an electrochromic glass section, which instantly transitions to a near-translucent shade at the touch of a button, inviting patrons to explore the world above. LA ROSE NOIRE: GLAMOUR DISTILLED The most remarkable element of this extraordinary motor car is its cocooning interior. This reveals the most complex expression of parquetry ever created at Rolls-Royce – the product of nearly two years of development, intense experimentation and hand craftsmanship. The artwork represents an abstract expression of falling rose petals, formed using 1,603 pieces of black wood veneer triangles. Enveloping the motor car’s occupants, stretching from the rear shawl panel through the doors and onto the expensive fascia, the highly complex pattern is formed with 1,070 perfectly symmetrical elements forming the background, and 533 asymmetrically positioned red pieces representing the rose petals. Made from Black Sycamore wood sourced in France as a subtle tribute to the French provenance of La Rose Noire, each triangle is cut, sanded and precisely positioned by hand. The assembly of this work of art required such intense concentration that the single craftsperson tasked with creating it spent weeks working in absolute silence in a sound-insulated space to mitigate against any potential distractions and could only work in one-hour sessions for no more than five hours total per day, to ensure they maintained the focus required for perfect execution. A SINGULAR TIMEPIECE The fascia of Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is provisioned with an integrated one-off timepiece by Audemars Piguet, which was specially commissioned by the client. The 43mm Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date is powered by a unique self-winding Calibre 4407 movement, featuring a flyback chronograph and a split-seconds mechanism. Masterfully matched to La Rose Noire’s colourway, it incorporates red counters and a red inner bezel, providing a bright contrast to the black ‘openworked’ dial highlighted with rhodium-toned bevels. Integrating the timepiece presented a significant challenge: the clients requested that it should both be mounted in the motor car and also be removable, so that it can be attached to a strap and worn. This was realised with a powered clasp mechanism that gently presents the timepiece at the touch of a button. Once the timepiece has been removed, the aperture in the fascia is covered with an elegant titanium openworked blank head watch highlighting a white-gold coin displaying a rose engraving, hand-sculpted by Audemars Piguet artisans. Subtle rose engravings on the motor car’s Bespoke Audio speaker frets mirror this motif. Each of the pieces were meticulously crafted by hand in the Swiss brand’s atelier and represent the only literal expressions of the Baccara Rose in the whole motor car. A COMMISSION TO CELEBRATE To celebrate their Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail the owners commissioned an exclusive vintage of Champagne de Lossy, one of their favourite wine properties. This is of particular significance given the special wine created for La Rose Noire Droptail is one of only a precious handful of vintages produced by the Chateau in its 160-year history. As the perfect staging point, the commissioning family requested a unique Rolls-Royce Champagne Chest. Replete with hand-blown crustal champagne flutes, appointed with matching rose petal parquetry and coordinated to match the colour palette and materials of the motor car, it is the product of the same meticulous attention to detail as the clients’ coachbuilt Rolls-Royce. LA ROSE NOIRE DROPTAIL: TAKING ITS PLACE IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE LEGEND This bold and historic motor car is a romantic celebration of the couple who created it, characterised by passion and a restless desire for meaningful experiences. In commissioning this extraordinary expression of Droptail, this remarkable family has not only shaped their own legacy but also participated in the legend of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. #ROLLSROYCE