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Silver Lake Motors – a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding – continues its commitment to delivering premier mobility solutions with the grand launch of The New EXEED VX. The unveiling ceremony took place at an evening event marked by sophistication and elegance at the prestigious Mondrian Hotel in Doha. The event was graced by senior officials from Silver Lake Motors and EXEED International, along with distinguished local dignitaries, prominent members of the media, and influential social media personalities. Guests were treated to an exclusive first look at the exceptional quality and luxury that The New EXEED VX offers. With its latest VX model, EXEED elevates the standard for luxury vehicles by introducing the Boss Private First-Class cabin. This design embodies a holistic approach to luxury, combining powerful handling, opulent comfort, and cutting-edge technology. The evening not only celebrated the debut of this remarkable automobile but also highlighted Silver Lake Motors' commitment to excellence and innovation in the automotive industry. Amidst an atmosphere charged with anticipation and admiration, guests were whisked away into a realm where innovation knows no bounds. The interior of the Boss Private First-Class cabin epitomizes luxury, meticulously crafted from premium imitation lamb leather renowned for its plushness and resilience, ensuring a lavish tactile experience. This lavishness seamlessly intertwines with functionality, showcasing heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats that deliver unparalleled comfort, regardless of the journey's duration or external weather conditions. The aura of exclusivity extends to the cabin's audio-visual experience. A top-of-the-line 23-speaker sound system envelops passengers in a bespoke audio environment, while the BOSS mode tailors the surround sound to offer an immersive sensation akin to a private concert. By harmonizing these opulent features, The New EXEED VX surpasses conventional expectations of luxury vehicles, establishing a new industry standard. It illustrates that business travel can seamlessly marry opulence with practicality, power with comfort. This holistic fusion of design and functionality positions The New EXEED VX as a trailblazer, providing a tantalizing glimpse into the future of automotive innovation. Considering this significant moment, Mr. Hisham Saleh Al Mana, Chairman and Managing Director of Al Mana Holding, said “It brings me immense pleasure to unveil The New EXEED VX to Qatar’s discerning motorists. The VX marks a pivotal moment in the realm of luxury business travel, epitomizing the convergence of performance, comfort, and technological advancement. With its formidable power handling, this vehicle promises a dynamic driving encounter, adept at traversing various terrains with finesse and assurance. It stands as the perfect companion for the business traveler, offering unmatched reliability and performance.” The practical technology Integrated into the The New EXEED VX is another cornerstone of its appeal. From advanced driver assistance systems to cutting-edge connectivity features, the vehicle is equipped to meet the needs of the modern professional. Whether it’s seamless integration with digital devices, intuitive navigation systems, or safety features that provide peace of mind, the VX is designed to enhance productivity and convenience on the go. Ms. Maissa Zhang, EXEED Middle East General Manager, stated, " The New EXEED VX epitomizes EXEED's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in automotive design. Understanding the needs of customers who frequently embark on business travels, EXEED ensures that the journey is as enriching as the destination itself. The new VX embodies this philosophy seamlessly—a vehicle engineered to offer serenity and tranquility throughout the journey, enveloped in the opulence of cutting-edge technology and design.” EXEED’s Brand Manager Ms. Ping Ding, announced that. “The New EXEED VX emerges as a sophisticated and versatile choice for the modern business traveler, offering an unmatched blend of powerful handling, luxurious comfort, and practical technology. It not only meets but exceeds the expectations of luxury business travel, setting a new standard. This is not just a car; it’s a legend.” Renowned for its unmatched performance, state-of-the-art safety features, and captivating design, the EXEED SUV range has swiftly ascended to prominence, solidifying its position as one of Qatar's leading automotive brands. Silver Lake Motors proudly embodies and enhances EXEED's bold global vision, crafting experiences that surpass the ordinary. Every encounter with the EXEED brand ignites a spark of passion and leaves an indelible mark of excellence. Customers are invited to explore The New EXEED VX at the EXEED flagship showroom situated in West Walk Doha, a beacon of quality and luxury. For further details or to schedule your test drive, please stop by the EXEED showroom or call 800 1115. #EXEEDVX #EXEED

Domasco Volvo carries forward its commitment to delivering premium, innovative, and environment-conscious driving experiences in Qatar, with the addition of the new fully electric Volvo EX30 to its distinctive line-up. The official unveiling took place at the Mondrian Hotel, Doha, in the presence of senior management from Volvo and Domasco, local dignitaries, media personalities, and influencers. The EX30 marks a significant step for the automotive distributor as it aims to drive EV adoption in the country. Now available for booking, this cutting-edge vehicle is Volvo's first small premium SUV, expanding its ever-growing range of all-electric offering to four models. A cornerstone of Volvo Cars’ electrification strategy and key in delivering the brand’s growth ambitions, the EX30 launch sets a new benchmark in electric mobility, aligning perfectly with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), which emphasizes the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. As Qatar aims to become one of the most progressive economies by 2030, vehicles like the EX30 are pivotal in realizing this goal, offering luxury and performance while minimizing environmental impact. A diversified business conglomerate, Domasco’s dedication to pioneering eco-conscious solutions is a testament to its dynamic leadership across core economic sectors, including automotive, in Qatar, and the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. Marco Melani, Regional Managing Director at Domasco, said: "Embracing Qatar's journey towards a sustainable future, the launch of the Volvo EX30 signifies our strategic focus on spearheading green mobility across the country, in line with Qatar's National Vision 2030. The Volvo EX30 epitomizes this green commitment; a compact SUV delivering on everything customers want from a Volvo alongside the smallest CO2 footprint of any Volvo car to date. Moreover, true to the Volvo heritage, the car delivers a truly distinctive, premium and outstanding driving experience, complemented with Domasco’s uncompromising standards of customer service and network.” As a small SUV that does big Volvo things, the new fully electric Volvo EX30 is designed to be as safe as you would expect. Honored with the prestigious Red Dot ‘Best of the Best Design’ award and named 2024 World Urban Car at the World Car Awards, the EX30 is designed to have the smallest CO2 footprint of any Volvo car to date, and to make people’s lives safer, more convenient and more enjoyable through cutting-edge technology and Scandinavian design. The EX30 embodies all of Volvo’s design values in a smaller format. A long wheelbase, large wheels and equal overhangs bring balance and refinement to the exterior. It’s distinctly electric, with a confident face, closed shield and a digital rendition of the Thor’s Hammer headlights. Battery tech that suits every user’s needs The new EX30 will offer two battery variants from launch: a 51-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) pack and a 69-kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese (NMC) variant, with the bigger option enabling a maximum driving range of 298 miles (480 kilometres). For drivers who spend most of their time in the city or tend to travel shorter distances between charges, Volvo Cars offers the Core grade, with a single-motor option with an LFP battery. The LFP standard-range battery, which uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, is more cost-effective and less resource-intensive to produce, meaning it is the best option for those who don’t need maximum range For maximum range, the EX30 Plus grade comes with an NMC extended-range battery, featuring lithium, nickel, manganese and cobalt, and produces its energy more efficiently than the LFP variant. This single-motor, extended range option gives drivers a range of up to 480km between charges. Finally, if performance is a top priority, there is the option of the Ultra Performance variant in which we pair the NMC battery with an additional second e-motor. This all-wheel drive variant of the EX30 provides 315kW (428hp) and takes you from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds – it’s officially Volvo’s fastest-accelerating car ever! Another thing the EX30 does fast is charging. The extended-range Twin Motor variant has a DC charging capacity of up to 153kW, while the standard-range car has a capacity of 134kW. That means drivers can charge their battery from 10 to 80 per cent in a little over 25 minutes. Through the car’s center display and app, you can set the amperage, maximum charging level and when you want to start charging. Small in size, yet big on safety The EX30 is designed to have the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo car to date and represents an important step forward for Volvo Cars’ sustainability ambitions. By tackling emissions across the entire production and lifecycle, as well as a considerate use of materials inside and out, Volvo Cars has managed to reduce its total carbon footprint over 200,000 kms of driving to below 30 tonnes. The EX30 is also designed to be as safe as users would expect from a Volvo and aims to look after both the driver and passengers in hectic urban environments. For example, it includes as standard a special safety feature for bikes that helps to prevent so-called ‘dooring’ accidents, by alerting when about to open a door in front of a cyclist, scooter or runner. The EX30 contains state-of-the-art restraint technology, as well as top-notch structural design that fulfills ambitious in-house safety requirements – designed to prepare Volvo cars for various real-world scenarios. The EX30 also aims to make a driver’s life more convenient, more relaxing and more enjoyable inside the car through cutting-edge tech and considerate Scandinavian interior design. Together with a contextual singlescreen User Interface (UX), with Google built-in and running the latest version of Volvo’s infotainment system on a 12.3” display, these features all reflect the hallmarks of true Volvo design. The Volvo EX30 is the first car to include a new generation of the popular Park Pilot Assist feature. It can handle all types of parking spaces, including parallel, curved, perpendicular and diagonal fishbone-style, making parking in tight spaces a breeze. As with any Volvo car, for the EX30 Volvo Cars has worked closely with tech partners such as Google, Apple and Qualcomm to deliver the best possible user experience. In tandem, working closely with ECARX through jointly owned HaleyTek software joint venture to deliver the best possible infotainment platform for all customers. A sense of calm Of course, the EX30 will also come with a digital key functionality which is both convenient for you and makes it easy to share the car with others. Built on the advanced UWB and CCC industry standards, Volvo’s technology will be compatible with a wide range of phone brands and models. Finally, the Volvo EX30 also comes with a choice of five different ambient lighting themes. Each is inspired by a different Scandinavian landscape and subtly shifting in colour, adding a sense of calm to the interior. Availability The EX30 is available now in four grades – Core, Plus, Ultra Performance and Ultra Performance LE – with a starting price of QAR 142,900. It comes in five exterior color choices – Crystal White Metallic, Onyx Black Metallic and Vapour Grey, Moss Yellow and Cloud Blue. Interior colour choices are inspired by Scandinavian nature, with four choices available, including Indigo, Pine, Breeze, and Mist. In pursuit of enhancing accessibility and sustainability, Domasco Volvo is thrilled to unveil an unprecedented partnership with Commercial Bank. This groundbreaking collaboration aims to facilitate eco-conscious driving by introducing exclusive Green Loans for the state-of-the-art Volvo EX30 electric vehicle. At an exceptional flat interest rate of 3.5%, this collaboration aligns with the CB Green Vehicle Loan initiative designed to support eco-friendly investments with attractive financing options for customers. This includes a 3-Year / 60,000 KM service package, 5-Year or 105,000 KM extended warranty, a complimentary electric wall charger, and one year of registration, providing peace of mind and convenience to new owners. Furthermore, to enhance the shopping experience, Domasco Volvo has launched the Volvo AR app, allowing customers to explore the EX30 from the comfort of their homes. To celebrate the launch of the app, Domasco Volvo is running a social media campaign encouraging users to place an EX30 in front of prominent locations in Qatar using the app. The most engaging post will win a one-night stay at the Mondrian Hotel, Doha. Volvo is exclusively distributed in Qatar by Doha Marketing Services Company (DOMASCO), a leading multi-brand company in Qatar, part of the Al-Futtaim Automotive group. Al-Futtaim Automotive is one of five divisions within the Al-Futtaim Group which provides quality products and services that enrich people’s lives and aspirations each and every day. #VolvoSUV #Volvo #DOMASCO

Next month will see the launch of YUN, an entirely new restaurant and concept located within Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, the city's newest hotspot. Evoking the oriental charm YUN is an elevated dining destination with eye-catching views that offers a forward-thinking approach to Cantonese and Taishanese cuisine in a 1930’s glamorous soul. This culinary gem is reminiscent of the original social dynasty. A tea house and luxury dining room reimagined for the modern day, YUN promises guests an exquisite gastronomic journey, amidst breath-taking panoramic views. Seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary opulence, creating an ambiance that is timeless. Guests can expect a meticulously crafted by enthusiastic Chinese chef Victor Zhong who draw inspiration from his rich culinary heritage of the region and 17 years of experience. The menu showcases a fusion of traditional tastes with a contemporary twist, with dishes designed for sharing. Promising an explosion of flavour, be ready to taste the classic Imperial Peking Duck - an iconic dish - featuring crispy, succulent duck served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce. A must try at YUN this season. Bold yet light, the aroma is nostalgic yet not overpowering. From dim sum delicacies to signature stir-fries, YUN will serve time-honoured cuisine with limitless concoctions. As well as, drawing inspiration from the timeless voyage of the Yangtze River, often hailed as the "Mother River of China," the beverage menu is a tribute to this iconic waterway's captivating journey. Embark on a sensory odyssey through the heart of the region as you delve into our thoughtfully curated range, designed to encapsulate the rich diversity and storied heritage found along the banks of the Yangtze. Perched on the highest 44th floor, the restaurant offers unrivalled views of Doha’s skyline and the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf. YUN’s interiors feature Art Deco elements, layering plush textures and luxurious furnishings, including intimate restaurant seating and a dedicated lounge bar serving trend-led fermented tea mocktails. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a bygone era, where every detail exudes sophistication. YUN invites guests to indulge in an unmatched dining experience and a truly unforgettable affair. #WaldorfAstoriaDohaWestBay

The 20th BMW Art Car is being presented to the public for the first time today at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Designed by renowned New York-based contemporary artist Julie Mehretu, the project transforms the BMW M Hybrid V8 racecar into a performative work of art, continuing a longstanding tradition of BMW Art Cars and competitive racing. Just a few weeks after its World Premiere in the French capital, the newest edition in the storied BMW Art Car collection will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “The whole BMW Art Car project is about invention, about imagination, about pushing limits of what can be possible. I don’t think of this car as something you would exhibit. I am thinking of it as something that will race in Le Mans. It’s a performative painting. My BMW Art Car was created in close collaboration with motorsport and engineering teams,” says Julie Mehretu. “The BMW Art Car is only completed once the race is over.” The collaboration between BMW and Julie Mehretu also includes a joint commitment to a series of PanAfrican Translocal Media Workshops for filmmakers, which will tour various African cities in 2025 and 2026, and will culminate in a major exhibition at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town. “The BMW Art Cars are an essential part of our global cultural commitment. For almost 50 years, we have been cooperating with artists who are just as fascinated by mobility and design as they are by technology and motorsports. Julie Mehretu's vision for a racing car is an extraordinarily strong contribution to our BMW Art Cars series,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Julie Mehretu has created more than an amazing Art Car. Her ideas provided the impetus for us to expand the cultural commitment of our Art Cars to promote the creativity of young artists in Africa.” A Performative Painting is Created. Space, movement and energy have always been central motifs in Julie Mehretu's work. For the design of the 20th BMW Art Car, she transformed a two-dimensional image into a three-dimensional representation for the first time, with which she succeeded in bringing dynamism into form. Julie Mehretu used the colour and form vocabulary of her monumental painting “Everywhen” (2021 - 2023) as a starting point for her design. The work is currently on view at the artist’s major retrospective at the Palazzo Grassi in Venice and will subsequently become part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, to which it has been gifted. Its abstract visual form results from digitally altered photographs, which are superimposed in several layers of dot grids, neon-coloured veils and the black markings characteristic of Mehretu's work. “In the studio, where I had the model of the BMW M Hybrid V8, I was just sitting in front of the painting and I thought: What would happen, if this car seemed to go through that painting and becomes affected by it?”, Julie Mehretu says. “The idea was to make a remix, a mash-up of the painting. I kept seeing that painting kind of dripping into the car. Even the kidneys of the car inhaled the painting.” BMW Art Cars with Le Mans history come together at the Concorso d’Eleganza. The fusion of image and vehicle was realised with the help of 3D mapping, with which the motif was transferred to the contours of the vehicle. The elaborate foiling allows for the fully designed BMW M Hybrid V8 to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. BMW Motorsport drivers Sheldon van der Linde (RSA), Robin Frijns (NED) and René Rast (GER) will enter the 20th BMW Art Car with starting number 20 at the Circuit de la Sarthe on 15 June. Like them, Julie Mehretu is also eagerly awaiting the race: “I went to see the BMW M Hybrid V8 race in Daytona, and this experience was overwhelming. Designers, engineers, aerodynamicists and so many other creative minds are working on taking this vehicle to its extreme. When it goes out on the racetrack now, so many dreams will be fulfilled.” Leading up to race day, Julie Mehretu's BMW Art Car will make an appearance at the Concorso d'Eleganza at Villa d'Este in Lake Como on its way to Le Mans. As part of the exhibition  for historic vehicles organised by the BMW Group and the Grand Hotel Villa d'Este, Julie Mehretu herself will present the 20th edition of the BMW Art Car Collection. It will be featured on the grounds of the Villa Erba together with the BMW Art Cars by Alexander Calder (1975), Frank Stella (1976), Roy Lichtenstein (1977), Andy Warhol (1979), Jenny Holzer (1999) and Jeff Koons (2010), which also made their race debut at Le Mans. Julie Mehretu will discuss the creation of the 20th BMW Art Car in an artist talk with Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design, on Sunday, 26 May 2024. Inspiration for Young Artists: PanAfrican Translocal Media Workshops. The collaboration between BMW and Julie Mehretu was conceived from the beginning beyond the automobile. It will culminate after the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a project for emerging artists on the African continent: The PanAfrican Translocal Media Workshops. Together, the partners are focusing on the creative potential across the African continent, where the BMW Group has been making a contribution to social responsibility with educational projects for over 50 years. Julie Mehretu and Mehret Mandefro, Emmy-nominated producer, writer and co-founder of the Realness Institute, which works to strengthen the media ecosystem in Africa, will organise workshops in various African cities and regions throughout 2025. The goal of the project is to provide a space for artists and filmmakers to collaborate and exchange ideas. These meetings will offer a forum for artists to develop new pathways towards a just civic future in their respective communities. The PanAfrican Translocal Workshop series will visit the cities of Dakar (Senegal), Marrakech (Morocco), Kigali (Rwanda), Lagos (Nigeria) and Cape Town (South Africa). The results of the workshops will be presented together with the 20th BMW Art Car at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town in the first half of 2026. The BMW Group is thus consistently continuing its decades-long support for film and creative talent: from the short film series ‘The Hire’ and the partnership with the Cannes International Film Festival to the acquisition of works by students from art academies in the neighbourhoods of the company’s plants worldwide. The Artist. Julie Mehretu is a world-renowned American painter. She was born in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, in 1970. Together with her family she moved to the U.S. at the age of seven. She lives and works in New York City and Berlin. Mehretu’s practice in painting, drawing and printmaking engage the viewer in a dynamic visual articulation of contemporary experience, a depiction of social behavior and the psychogeography of space by exploring palimpsests of history, from geological time to a modern-day phenomenology of the social. Mehretu received her Bachelor’s Degree from the Kalamazoo College in Michigan, spent a year abroad at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal, and completed her Master's degree of Fine Art with honors from The Rhode Island School of Design in 1997. Mehretu has received numerous awards, including the The MacArthur Award (2005), The Berlin Prize: Guna S. Mundheim Fellowship at The American Academy in Berlin (2007) and the U.S. Department of State Medal of Arts Award (2015).  A mid-career survey of Mehretu's work recently toured at LACMA (Los Angeles), High Museum (Atlanta) The Whitney Museum of American Art (New York) and The Walker Museum of Art (Minneapolis) from 2019 to 2023. Her largest European solo exhibition to date entitled “Ensemble” opened March 17, 2024 at Palazzo Grassi in Venice. Mehretu is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and The National Academy of Design. Her global representative is Marian Goodman Gallery. She also exhibits with White Cube, London, and Carlier Gebauer, Berlin. Statement from the Jury for the 20th BMW Art Car. Julie Mehretu was unanimously selected in 2018 by a jury of high-ranking representatives of the international art world to design the 20th BMW Art Car. The panel includes renowned curators and museum directors from various countries, including Koyo Kouoh, Executive Director and Chief Curator, Zeitz MOCAA, Cape Town; Hans-Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director of the Serpentine Galleries, London; and Cecilia Alemani, Donald R. Mullen, Jr. Director and Chief Curator, High Line Art, New York. On the occasion of the World Premiere of the BMW Art Car designed by Julie Mehretu in Paris, the jury members published the following statement: "We are thrilled with Julie's BMW Art Car! Okwui Enwezor had already coined the phrase ‘Dynamism in Form’ during our jury session and nothing applies better to her BMW M Hybrid V8 racecar. Julie’s first three-dimensional work combines her aesthetics and formal language with the idea of the glitch and the blur, turning speed into a visceral experience. This energetic space is as fierce and competitive in racing as it is ambitious as a creative playground of the imagination. It not only pays homage to the art cars of Jenny Holzer and Frank Stella, but also spins a visual web from Mad Max to graffiti and street art that is unique within the series of BMW Art Cars." The BMW M Hybrid V8. The canvas for the 20th BMW Art Car is the BMW M Hybrid V8. The new racecar from BMW M GmbH features a hybrid electric drivetrain system with approximately 640 hp, powered by a 4.0-litre V8 engine supported by an electric motor (top speed: up to 345 km/h or 215 mph, depending on the race track layout). During this year’s official FIA World Endurance Championship races, the BMW M Hybrid V8 will take on high-calibre competition in the Hypercars category. The car will also compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans - the first BMW M Motorsport prototype to do so since the BMW V12 LMR, which won the classic race in 1999. The BMW Art Car Collection. Renowned artists from all over the world have participated in the BMW Art Car program since 1975. The initiative came from the French racing driver and art lover Hervé Poulain, who, together with the then BMW Head of Motorsport Jochen Neerpasch, asked his artist friend Alexander Calder to paint a car. The result was a BMW 3.0 CSL, which competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1975 and became a crowd favourite. This was the birth of the BMW Art Car Collection. In the years that followed, renowned artists such as Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Esther Mahlangu, David Hockney, Jenny Holzer, Ólafur Elíasson and Jeff Koons enriched the collection with further BMW Art Cars, each in their own individual style. Most recently, the Chinese multimedia artist Cao Fei and American conceptual artist John Baldessari each presented a BMW Art Car based on the BMW M6 GT3 and GTLM respectively in 2016 and 2017. The BMW Art Cars are not only shown at their home, the BMW Museum in Munich, but are also on tour around the world as part of international exhibitions. #BMWArtCar #BMW

MEEZA, a pioneering Qatari managed IT services and solutions provider, is pleased to announce a cooperation agreement with Oman Information and Communication Technology Group (ITHCA). This strategic collaboration focuses on enhancing mutual capabilities and access to innovative technologies in alignment with Qatar and Oman's ongoing efforts in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. The cooperation agreement, signed by representatives from both MEEZA and ITHCA, sets the foundation for a cooperative relationship that will benefit both nations. The partnership delineates several key areas of collaboration, including the potential for increased opportunities for knowledge sharing and professional development, enhanced access to cutting-edge technologies and research initiatives, identification of joint projects and initiatives, and much more. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mohsin Nasser Al-Marri, Acting CEO of MEEZA, stated: “This a cooperation agreement marks a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing the ICT landscape across the region. By combining our resources and expertise with OICT, we look forward to unlocking new opportunities and innovations.” Engineer Said bin Abdullah Al-Mandhari, CEO of ITHCA Group, added: "Partnering with MEEZA allows us to expand our strategic investments and initiatives in the ICT domain. Together, we aim to explore and implement solutions that support our strategic goals and respond to the dynamic needs of the market." ITHCA, which has a key role in the development of information technology in Oman and acts as strategic investor within Oman’s ICT Investment Environment, collaborates with various entities to enhance the national ICT infrastructure and capabilities. This collaborative endeavour aligns with Qatar Digital Agenda 2030, and marks a commitment to a shared vision of cooperation and strategic growth in the ICT sector that benefits both organizations and supports broader economic diversification efforts. #MEEZA #ITHCA Group

Fahad Al-Sulaiti, the chief executive officer of Education Above All (EAA), shared how technology and innovation is shaping the organization’s strategic vision. Speaking at the Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) Dean’s Lecture Series, Al-Sulaiti discussed how EAA is finding alternative pathways to improve access to a quality education among the world’s most marginalized populations. Al-Sulaiti stressed that EAA is in line with the fourth goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is to" Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all". “EAA is committed to ensuring no child or youth is left out of the education system, and we focus on the most vulnerable—particularly children, women, and refugees—whose education is compromised due to poverty, conflict, or lack of resources.” Dean Michael Trick believed the lecture was particularly relevant for CMU-Q students: “Our students in each program are learning how AI works, and how it is shaping their fields and the world around them. Mr. Al-Sulaiti’s insights into the human impact of technology demonstrates the possibilities that AI can unlock to improve quality of life.” Al-Sulaiti highlighted EAA’s current innovative initiatives, such as the Internet Free Education Resource Bank (IFERB) in India and the Digital School Program in Zambia and Pakistan that offer flexible learning options to complement mainstream education. He also shared ways that innovation will shape the future of equity in education. “We are investing in alternative ways of providing education access,” said Al-Sulaiti. “We believe we can play a key role in leveraging AI, including exploring adaptive learning pathways, AI-powered assessments, and interactive environments, particularly in areas with limited resources or diverse learning paces.” The Dean’s Lecture Series at CMU-Q serves as a forum for some of the most influential thinkers and leaders in Qatar. The series will return in the fall of 2024. #EducationAboveAllFoundation

The Doha Film Institute reaffirmed its dedication to fostering emerging voices in global cinema today at the Cannes Film Festival 2024, unveiling the recipients of its 2024 Spring Grants cycle. A total of 44 films from 17 countries have been chosen for this round of the Middle East region’s enduring film development program, which has backed over 850 diverse projects from 75 countries to date. Awarded in two cycles—Spring and Fall—the Institute Grants programme is the region’s longest-serving film support initiative that identifies and nurtures first-and second-time filmmakers globally. Seeking out and promoting original voices, the programme aims to develop a community of filmmakers among the Institute’s alumni and encourage creative interaction among artists worldwide. To date, more than 850 film projects from 75 countries have benefited from the programme that supports feature and short narratives, documentaries, essays and experimentals, as well as TV and web series. In addition to Qatar, recipients of the 2024 Spring Grants include film projects from Algeria, China, Colombia, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria, Tunisia along with first-time grantees from Malta, South Korea and Tajikistan. Recipients include 25 women filmmakers and 14 returning grantees, along with six projects from Qatar-based talent, underlining the Institute’s commitment to supporting important voices and the continued evolution of independent cinema from the region and beyond. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, said: “The founding objective of our Grants programme is to build a new collective of authentic voices who bring diversity and depth to the medium of cinema and encourage cross-cultural exchange and dialogue. Our aim is to identify new talent, amplify globally resonant stories and develop a robust ecosystem that nurtures powerful and moving storytelling to help emerging filmmakers realise their creative aspirations.” “We are proud to present a new slate of captivating projects from across the region and beyond chosen for their innovative filmmaking techniques, reiterating our commitment to nurturing original and independent voices in world cinema. We are particularly excited of the notable presence of female talent, who represent the bold new energy of filmmaking in the Arab world.” She added. The 2024 Spring Grants recipients are: MENA – Feature Narrative – Development ·       Al-Dana (Qatar) by Nora Al-Subai tells the story of a woman in a man's world who embarks on a Pearl Diving adventure to reclaim her freedom, find the famous black pearl, and heal old wounds. ·       Running With Beasts (Lebanon, Czech Republic, Qatar) by Leila Basma. Amid Lebanon's economic collapse, five friends come up with a risky secret plan to chase their dreams, confronting the unexpected costs of growing up. MENA – Feature Narrative – Production ·       Marie and Jolie (Tunisia, France, Qatar) by Erige Sehiri is the tale of three Ivorian women who rescue a child from the desert to form a complex blended family amidst a country in crisis. ·       Sound of Silence (Lebanon, France, Greece, UK, Qatar) by Joyce A. Nashawati. Set in 1972, when Greece was under military rule, Alice and Cristina, caught in a police raid on their hippie camp, seek refuge in a monastery, only to discover it harbours a deadly cult led by a ruthless Abbess. MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production ·       To a Land Unknown (Palestine, UK, Greece, Netherlands, France, Germany, Qatar) by Mahdi Fleifel tells the story of the desperate attempts of two Palestinian cousins stranded in Athens to find a way out of their hopeless environment before it is too late. ·       Yunan (Syria, Germany, Canada, Italy, Jordan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Ameer Fakher Eldin. Haunted by vivid dreams and tormented by inner demons, an Arab author embarks on a journey to a remote German island driven by a desire to end his life. ·       The Settlement (Egypt, France, Germany, Qatar) by Mohamed Rashad tells the story of a factory worker, Sayed el-Deeb, who dies on the job in present-day Alexandria. When his two sons became labourers in the same factory, the workers become suspicious that they are there to avenge his death. ·       Nomadish (Morocco, Hungary, Qatar) by Yassine Marco Marroccu. In Casablanca, 1961, Edoardo embarks on a covert and illegal mission to rescue a wrecked ship on the shores of the Atlantic. ·       Agora (Tunisia, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Ala Eddine Slim. In a faraway town, missing people return under inexplicable circumstances—when an investigation is launched, things get complicated. Non-MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production ·       Żejtune (Malta, Germany, Qatar) by Alex Camilleri. Mar is determined to claim her family inheritance and leave the small island of Malta behind for good. But an encounter with Nenu, an elderly troubadour, tempts her to rediscover the country she aims to escape. ·       The Botanist (China, Qatar) by Jing Yi is set in the village valleys of northern Xinjiang, where a Kazakh boy obsessed with plants gradually dwells into the dreamy fable of botany as he reminisces about the time that has passed. ·       Another Birth (Tajikistan, USA, Germany, Qatar) by Isabelle Kalandar. Eight-year-old Parastu sets out on an imaginative-driven quest to find her long-lost father to save her beloved and grief-stricken grandfather from dying of longing for his absent son. ·       Horizon (Colombia, France, Luxembourg, Chili, Qatar) by César Augusto Acevedo. Separated in life due to violence, Basilio and his mother Inés understand that their reunion is only because they are now dead. They decide to set out in search of the father through a landscape completely devastated by war. ·       Tale Of The Land (Indonesia, The Philippines, Qatar) by Loeloe Hendra follows a victim of land conflict as she tries to get her life back on a floating house in the middle of the water. ·       The Fin (South Korea, Germany, Qatar) by Syeyoung Park. In a reunified Korea devastated by an ecological catastrophe, an oppressed mutant Omega fights to fulfil a dying wish, whilst an ardent government worker begins to doubt the state’s ideologies. MENA – Feature Documentary – Experimental/Essay – Development ·       Flying Elephants (Lebanon, France, Qatar) by Mona Khaouli is a documentary about 64-year-old Lebanese musician, Munir Khauli, whose niece reveals a singular character and a unique, quirky vision of Lebanon through his music. ·       Just Like a Dream (Lebanon, Qatar) by Corine Shawi explores how the Beirut port explosion and the everlasting political turmoil have shaped Lebanon’s collective psyche. ·       Road Trip (Morocco, France, Qatar) by Linda Qibaa follows Linda, who reunites with her father Khammar in his car garage after 30 years apart. Together, they set off for Morocco, the family's country of origin, via Spain—where Khammar had been imprisoned. ·       Speak Image, Speak (Palestine, Germany, Qatar) by Pary El-Qalqili, sets out to narrate a disobedient cinematic counter-memory of Palestinian history in Germany. MENA – Feature Documentary – Production ·       Flower of the Sands (Morocco, Qatar) by Jaouad Babili follows a woman who runs a café in a fishing village—challenging circumstances in a predominantly male-dominated environment. ·       Climbing the Mountains (Algeria, France, Germany, Qatar) by Sabrina Chebbi investigates what might happen if trauma is passed on silently from generation to generation. MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production ·       She Was Not Alone (Iraq, Saudi Arabia, USA, Qatar) by Hussein Al-Asadi chronicles the life of Fatima, a resilient nomadic woman in the disappearing Iraqi marshes amidst the threats of climate change. ·       Top of Form ·       Those Who Watch Over (Morocco, Belgium, Qatar) by Karima Saidi explores how Muslims, Jews, Orthodox and outsiders are buried together in a unique place where care is taken to respect plurality, both for the dead and the living. ·       Ground Zero (Palestine, Qatar) a collective shorts project with 22 directors from Gaza preserves the scarcely heard voices, experiences and memories of artistic talents from the Gaza Strip. ·       Moondove (Lebanon, Netherlands, Qatar) by Karim Kassem, moves between three stories in a village in Lebanon, exploring inner worlds and psychological landscapes, as the phases of the moon cycle on. Non-MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production ·       Cutting Through Rocks (Iran, Germany, Qatar) by Sara Khaki and Mohammad Reza Eyni is a feature-length documentary in production and is expected to be finished in 2024. ·       Requiem for a Tribe (Iran, Spain, Qatar) by Marjan Khosravi documents the life of Hajar, a 55-year-old Bahktiari grandma who is betrayed by her family and forced to abandon her nomadic lifestyle. MENA – TV Series – Development ·       Badr on the Moon (Qatar, Jordan) by Aisha Al-Jaidah and Kholoud Al Ali is about a boy and his robot sidekick who live on the lunar surface and learn all about recycling, energy saving, new technology, and more. ·       Last Words (Lebanon, Canada, Qatar) by Antoine Waked, depicts a woman with newfound powers to hear the final thoughts of the dead who must use them to survive and protect her immigrant community in Canada from a killer. ·       Palmyra (Lebanon, France, Qatar) by Carol Mezher and Gabriela Flores. Upon the brutal murder of Palmyra’s head of antiquities, three women are reunited as the sole inheritors of precious artefacts he smuggled from the ancient Syrian city. ·       Rent-a-Mama (Lebanon, Canada, Qatar) by Dania Bdeir tells the story of a traditional Lebanese supermom and housewife, who is living in New York and decides to sign up on an app to become a mother-for-hire to liberal Gen Zers. ·       The Dry Kingdom (Jordan, USA, Qatar) by              Dana J. Atrach. Amid a global water crisis, the rebellious daughter of a missing scientist must find her father and his groundbreaking discovery before it falls into the wrong hands. ·       Echoes (Lebanon, Qatar) by Marie-Rose Osta is a collection of selected stories from the Arab world, where the tales of six women from different countries intersect with the spirits of women from the past. MENA – Web Series – Production ·       El'Sardines (Algeria, France, Qatar) by Zoulikha Tahar. An Algerian marine bioengineer navigates the chaos of her sister's wedding preparations while keeping her impending departure for a sardine-run expedition a secret. MENA – Shorts – Narrative – Development ·       Before the Day Breaks (Qatar) by Amal Al-Muftah tells the story of Nour, a young truck driver, who encounters obstacles while delivering an urgent, unusual shipment to Qatar. ·       If Only (Qatar) by Ali Al Anssari portrays Hamda, who thirty-five years after her separation from her parents, takes a leap back in time to save their lives, only to find out the hidden truth about their untimely departure. MENA – Shorts – Narrative – Production ·       Little Man (Morocco, France, Qatar) by Hajri Gachouch unfolds the story of a man who persists in carrying out his mysterious project in a drought-stricken village in the Sahara. ·       Salted Skins (Lebanon, France, Canada, Qatar) by Nicolas Fattouh depicts Nabil who begins to lose his space in his childhood home, gradually being occupied by the family of his elder brother. ·       The Heaviness of Absence (Syria, Germany, Qatar) by Jalal Maghout. In the midst of war-torn Damascus, a distressed young man tries to discover the fate of his arrested father. ·       Zizou (Egypt, Qatar) by Khaled Moeit is about a 13-year-old overweight boy's struggle to join the neighbourhood's football team as a way to prove himself. ·       Eman (Qatar) by Maha Al-Thani. Raised in a strict household, an adolescent girl’s immense desire to go out leads her to an alternative universe which might prove to be worse than her reality. ·       Please Pause (Qatar) by Lulwa Al-Thani follows a boy navigating the challenges of growing up who, while seeking comfort in reminiscence and nostalgia, confronts a surprising truth about his age during a chance encounter with a police officer. MENA – Shorts Documentary – Production ·       The Star (Lebanon, Qatar) by Ingrid El Zoghby is the transformative journey of a cancer survivor who discovers how her health problems might be linked to her past traumas. ·       Another Day Shall Come (Palestine, Qatar) by Aida Kaadan is an audio-visual portrait of silenced Palestinians living in Israel during the war on Gaza. #DohaFilmInstitute

Renowned for its steadfast dedication to sustainable practices, Mandarin Oriental, Doha proudly celebrates World Bee Day on May 20. From educational workshops to specialty spa treatments, room amenities and delicacies, the hotel will be humming with activity as part of the Group’s commitment to promoting biodiversity conservation and ecological awareness. Mandarin Oriental, Doha, for the past 4 years, has managed 15 active beehives across Qatar in collaboration with Bu Saif’s Apiary, harvesting its own natural Malika Honey. Named after the Arabic word for ‘Queen,’ Malika Honey is derived from the nectar of the fragrant blooms of the indigenous Sidr tree. This initiative not only underscores Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to environmental stewardship, but also enriches guests’ culinary experience. Malika Honey's unique flavours can be sampled in sweet treats such as the Malika Honey Cake from The Mandarin Cake Shop and the Lavender Honey Peach Sorbet from Gelato. Expanding on its ongoing beekeeping initiative, the hotel now warmly invites students from Qatar Academy Msheireb to participate in educational sessions at Gelato. Guided by the hotel’s culinary team, students will discover the crucial role bees play in biodiversity and learn about sustainable practices in honey production on the occasion of World Bee Day. Mandarin Oriental, Doha Barahat Msheireb Street, Msheireb Downtown, Doha, PO Box 23643, Doha, Qatar Telephone +974 4008 8888 mandarinoriental.com/doha #MandarinOrientalDoha

Since its opening on Monday, Build Your House (BYH) Exhibition 2024 has attracted a vast number of visitors, exhibitors, and speakers to its four-day event hosted at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Providing Qataris with a rich tapestry of crucial insights into the realm of home construction, BYH exhibition delves into the intricacies of building a home, illuminating every step of the implementation process, from inception to completion. More than just an exhibition, this event serves as a beacon of awareness, shedding light on the challenges that individuals may encounter during the home-building journey and offering invaluable strategies for overcoming them. From making informed decisions about contractors to unraveling the complexities of licensing and loans, attendees will emerge equipped with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the construction landscape with ease. Providing Qataris with a rich tapestry of crucial insights into the realm of home construction, BYH exhibition delves into the intricacies of building a home, illuminating every step of the implementation process, from inception to completion. Day 2 saw a significant influx of visitors engaging with over 250 consultants, contractors, and suppliers specializing in residential and housing needs, spanning design, construction, and renovation. Attendees of Build Your House Exhibition 2024 embarked on a journey of transformation, highlighted by the Second Gulf Housing Week. This dedicated space showcased booths from all six GCC countries, complemented by an esteemed lineup of fourteen speakers and moderators offering invaluable insights and perspectives on housing. Distinguished representatives from various GCC ministries graced the event with their presence, beginning with a comprehensive tour of the exhibition floor, exploring the pavilions and stands of all participating entities and ministries from the GCC. Subsequently, these notable attendees actively engaged in a panel discussion centered on "Humanizing National Housing Projects." The panel discussion, led by His Excellency Fahid Muhammad Al-Khayarin, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Development in the Ministry of Social Development and Family in the State of Qatar, featured distinguished panelists including H.E. Eng. Hamad Ali Sulaiman Al Nazwani, Undersecretary of Oman's Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning for Housing, and H.E. Engineer Mohammed Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program in the United Arab Emirates. Also contributing to the panel were Mr. Abdulrahman bin Abdullah Al-Tawil, Deputy Minister for Stimulating Housing Supply and Real Estate Development in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Eng. Asim Abdul Latif Abdullah, Undersecretary of Housing and Urban Planning in Bahrain, and Mr. Rashid Al-Enezi, representing the Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Housing Welfare in Kuwait. On the vibrant second day of the Second Gulf Housing Week Conference, thought-provoking discussions illuminated pivotal topics including Affordable housing: Collaboration between Public and Private sectors, Challenges and Potentials of the Housing projects in Qatar, Enhancing the Urban Identity in Gulf Housing projects and Comprehensive housing projects in Sultanat of Oman, offering invaluable insights into shaping tomorrow's cities in the gulf region. Transitioning into day three, the conference spotlighted Resilient Housing Infrastructure and Policy Frameworks and collaborative strategies, fostering dynamic exchanges through panel discussions centered around Government Initiatives and the potent synergy of Public-Private Partnerships, charting the course for sustainable development and prosperity in the region. Throughout BYH 2024, guests have been captivated by the exquisite allure of "Qatari House," an art exhibition meticulously curated by the Ministry of Social Development and Family in collaboration with NeXTfairs for Exhibitions and Conferences. Through a captivating journey across time, this remarkable showcase unveiled a myriad of photographs, each intricately portraying the evolving narrative of the Qatari house. With every image, a deep reverence echoed for Qatar's vibrant history and cultural legacy, encapsulating the essence of bygone eras while honoring the enduring imprint of Qatari architecture. The Qatari House Exhibition serves as a platform for preserving the cultural and heritage identity of Qatar, showcasing elements of daily life, familial bonds, and societal values inherent to Qatari culture. Through their artworks and archival contributions, Qatari artists play a pivotal role in expressing the essence of Qatari heritage architecture. Regarded as trailblazers in the arts scene, they have made significant contributions to documenting cultural identity and the architectural evolution that blends Islamic influences with modern design. This fusion has given rise to iconic structures that serve as enduring symbols of Qatar's architectural and design progress. Notable participants include Engineer Ibrahim Mohammed Al-Jaida, artist Youssef Ahmed, and the Qatar Museums Authority Archive. Today is your last chance to attend BYH 2024, so don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Day 4 of the Build Your House exhibition. Dive into the pulse of the Real Estate Market Trends in Specific Gulf Countries, explore the realms of Innovation and Collaboration shaping the cities of tomorrow, and uncover transformative Housing Solutions for the GCC Communities. As BYH 2024 concludes, the Second Gulf Week Event will wrap up with a promising and spectacular ceremony. This closing spectacle will be attended by Ministers from the GCC, distinguished dignitaries, and notable VIPs. Following the ceremony, the esteemed guests will embark on a thorough tour of all exhibition areas, providing them with insight into the diverse showcases and offerings. Today also promises a day of celebratory moments. The Student Competition, in partnership with VCUarts Qatar - our esteemed Educational Partner, will reach its pinnacle as deserving victors are honored with prestigious accolades. Exhibitors who have enriched the event with their outstanding contributions will be recognized with awards for exemplary displays. And finally, brace yourself for a memorable closing ceremony, where Ministers, Dignitaries, and VIPs will converge to commemorate the conclusion of this remarkable event. Free event registrations for attendees are now available. For faster check in, register now https://byh.zohobackstage.com/BYH2024#/tickets?lang=en Visit www.buildyourhouseqatar.com for more details. #FinalOpportunity #ExploreBuildYourHouseExhibition2024

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and FedEx Logistics, a subsidiary of FedEx Corporation (NYSE: FDX), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the establishment of a regional logistics facility in Qatar’s free zones. The facility, which will operate under the company’s FedEx Trade Networks Transport & Brokerage division, will be located at Ras Bufontas Free Zone and will include a state-of-the-art logistics office. The MoU was signed by Sheikh Mohammed H. F. Al-Thani, CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), and Patrick Moebel, President and CEO of FedEx Logistics, in a ceremony that took place on the sidelines of their participation at the Qatar Economic Forum, following a productive panel discussion titled ‘Connecting to the Shifting Global Supply Chain Network’ that brought together QFZ and FedEx Logistics. The new facility will help continue to support the expansion of FedEx Logistics with seamless integration into the FedEx global network, serving as a key gateway for international cargo transition in the region between Asia and Europe. The location of the FedEx Logistics facility in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, adjacent to the award-winning Hamad International Airport and Qatar Airways, will provide enhanced access to air transportation and freight, efficient customs processing time, convenience, and the opportunity to grow business in the region. On the occasion of the signing, Sheikh Mohammed H. F. Al-Thani, CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) said: “The collaboration between QFZ and FedEx Logistics will help accelerate the flow of goods and strengthen supply chains, benefitting economies on a global scale”. Sheikh Mohammed added: “The FedEx Logistics investment in QFZ reflects a shared commitment to growth and innovation within the logistics sector. The collaboration leverages the world-class expertise and global network of FedEx and will undoubtedly contribute to highlighting Qatar as a preferred business destination.” “The regional facility in QFZ will enable us to better serve our customers not just in the region between Asia and Europe, but also around the world,” said Patrick Moebel, President and CEO, FedEx Logistics: “We are proud to collaborate with QFZ to establish a facility that allows FedEx Logistics to expand while continuing to deliver for our customers by helping them navigate global commerce with the guidance of regional expertise.” Kami Viswanathan, President of FedEx Express Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa said: “With the establishment of the FedEx Logistics regional facility in Qatar’s Free Zones, we are not only enhancing our global network, but also reaffirming our commitment to Qatar's burgeoning role in cross-border trade and supporting the growth of the state’s national economy. Together with QFZ, we are furthering our shared vision for innovation, efficiency, and growth in this dynamic market. We are excited to be at the forefront of this transformative journey and shaping the future of logistics in Qatar.” Located at the heart of the Gulf at the intersection of three continents, and with access to 60% of the world’s population within eight hours flying time and five days sailing time, the freight and logistics market in Qatar has been growing steadily. This along with the continued expansion of air and seaports are positioning Qatar to be a logistics leader. #QFZ

Qatar’s Ooredoo has been distinguished as the ninth highest value creator in the global telecommunications sector, as per the insights from Boston Consulting Group's (BCG) 2024 Telco Value Creators Report. Demonstrating a robust progression with a 13% total shareholder return from 2019 to 2023, Ooredoo has commendably resulted in  substantial value creation of USD $5 billion over the same period. In addition, Ooredoo reported an impressive market capitalization of USD $10 billion in 2023, marking a significant achievement within the industry. The BCG report, titled “A New Formula for Success: The 2024 Telco Value Creators Report,” explores how telecommunications players have overcome challenges, such as stagnant revenue streams and varying investment returns, particularly from sizeable outlays like 5G networks. "In the telecommunications sector, Qatar is setting a benchmark for the future, with its National Vision 2030 underscoring the pivotal role of digital transformation alongside traditional values," said Nuno Gomes, Managing Director and Partner at BCG. "The strategic integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI, cloud computing, and big data, aligned with the nation's holistic goals of human, social, and economic progress, exemplifies a model for driving value growth. Like industry leaders such as Ooredoo, Qatar's dual focus on nurturing its core telecommunications infrastructure while venturing into new digital horizons is a testament to its commitment to achieving a sustainable and advanced society." Predominantly agile and future-forward Telco players have played an instrumental role in driving digital transformation, diversification, and quality-of-life enhancement that aligns with Qatar’s national development ambitions. While Telco providers in Qatar are direct protagonists in strengthening connectivity and modernizing infrastructure, their continuous innovation allows for greater impact in advancing critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and finance as well as bettering citizens’ daily lives through strong connectivity and innovative offering. The report outlines a roadmap for value generation in the telecommunications domain, which resonates with Digital Agenda 2030 outlining Qatar’s comprehensive plan for digital transformation by accelerating digitalization and technology adoption. Through this framework, telecom operators like Ooredoo can establish themselves for enduring growth and bolstered market competitiveness amidst a dynamically evolving digital backdrop. Key Strategies for Telco Success in Qatar: Drawing from an extensive analysis spanning five years, BCG has meticulously studied the performance and strategic approaches of 59 telco companies worldwide. Through this comprehensive research, highlighted in "Telecommunications Value Creators Report," BCG reveals a new, pivotal formula for success that will guide telcos in achieving unparalleled value creation and competitive supremacy in 2024 and beyond. • Uphold the Core: Strengthening foundational services with AI to enhance customer loyalty and satisfaction. • Catalyze Growth Beyond the Core: Capitalizing on the burgeoning digital economy with novel services that resonate with Qatar's progressive market demands. • Optimize Asset Usage: Refining existing infrastructure to boost cost efficiency and service delivery. • Streamline Costs: Employing automation and AI to enhance operational efficacy and curtail costs. • Transition to Core-to-Cloud: Adopting cloud-based systems to foster flexibility and expandability. • Implement Cutting-edge Network Design: Progressing network capabilities to facilitate the swift introduction of innovative services. By incorporating these strategies into their operations, telecom operators in Qatar can generate significant value, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030 to transform Qatar into an advanced society capable of sustaining development and providing a high standard of living for its people by the year 2030. Embracing the GenAI Revolution: Transforming the Telco Landscape in Qatar Telecom leaders around the globe are tapping into the power of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), judiciously navigating its potential. Preliminary uses in automating tasks, personalizing offerings, and revamping business processes indicate substantial strides toward commercial prosperity. Given the elevated expectations of customers and the swift pace of digital adoption in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, GenAI can potentially be a transformative force for telecom companies. Key focal points include enhancing customer service via AI-driven chatbots, developing potent sales strategies with highly tailored marketing initiatives, and boosting operational efficiency by automating various telecom processes. Telecom operators in the GCC are encouraged to incorporate GenAI into their strategies, following the "10-20-70" maxim. This involves allocating 10% of the effort to constructing algorithms, 20% to establishing tech frameworks and formulating premium data streams, and a substantial 70% to orchestrating and executing operational metamorphosis, focusing on personnel, processes, and change management. The potential gains from GenAI for Qatar telecoms are extensive, ranging from cost mitigation to creating innovative products and improved consumer experiences. GenAI is driving rapid transformations across all sectors, with telecoms quickly embracing the trend and setting a benchmark for other digital industries. "The telecommunications landscape in Qatar is being rapidly transformed by digitalization, with strategies that prioritize agility and innovation playing a key role," highlighted David Panhans, Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG. "Qatar's telcos are ahead in implementing tailored services for both B2B and B2C segments, guided by the comprehensive vision in the Qatar National Vision 2030. Eschewing one-size-fits-all solutions in favor of adaptable market-entry and expansion strategies, the country's telecommunications sector is adept at navigating the swiftly evolving digital ecosystem." As the telecommunications sector continues evolving and presenting unique challenges, companies like Ooredoo stand out through strategic foresight and agility. These industry leaders provide invaluable insights into their successes, illustrating how the amalgamation of regional-specific strategies can forge a path to persistent growth and sectoral preeminence. About Boston Consulting Group Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we help clients with total transformation—inspiring complex change, enabling organizations to grow, building competitive advantage, and driving bottom-line impact. To succeed, organizations must blend digital and human capabilities. Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives to spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting along with technology and design, corporate and digital ventures—and business purpose. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, generating results that allow our clients to thrive. #QatarsOoredooSecuresPosition

Bentley Motors today reveals the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era - the Batur Convertible. Created by Mulliner, Bentley’s in house bespoke division and the longest standing coachbuilder in the world, the Batur Convertible follows the exquisitely hand-crafted Bacalar barchetta and Batur coupe. With the Batur Convertible, Mulliner continues its long tradition of crafting truly individual cars, tailored to the wishes of each of its extraordinary clients. The Batur Convertible furthers the innovative design DNA introduced by its coupe sibling that will ultimately guide the design of Bentley’s future cars. The Batur Convertible retains the most powerful version of Bentley’s iconic W12, with a 750 PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine that has metaphorically and literally powered Bentley’s success for the last two decades. With the engine to finish production this summer, the Batur Convertible will be one of the last ever Bentleys to use this incredible powertrain. Bespoke two-seat grand touring Bentley has a rich history of open-cockpit cars, from the very first Bentley of 1919, through the company’s foundation years in the 1920s, to the most recent - the Bacalar. The architecture of the Batur Convertible has allowed Mulliner’s designers to seize the opportunity to create a theme that not only blends the design of the Bacalar and Batur but includes the usability of a convertible. The designers also chose to highlight the two-seater character with a ‘wraparound’ cockpit inspired by the design of the Bacalar. The dramatic ‘airbridge’ behind the seats and tapered cowls at the rear hark back to the barchetta sports cars of old, whilst underlining the promise of a dynamic, driver-focused adventure in a cosseting, cocooned environment. The airbridge and tapered cowls are not only aesthetic, but also provide a semi-enclosed luggage compartment behind the two front seats. The convertible roof delivers an aesthetic of beauty as a modern, tactile alternative to a hardtop roof. A combination of insulation material, sealing system refinements and acoustic treatments create a cossetting environment in a system which can be deployed or stowed in just 19 seconds, with the car travelling at speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h), transforming the car from a luxurious coupe into an open-top Grand Tourer at the touch of a button. Personal and uniquely commisioned Mulliner’s in-house design team will help co-create every Batur Convertible with its customer, working together through a specially created Mulliner visualiser that allows any part of the car to be customised in colour and surface finish. Endless samples of unique materials bring texture to the process, and the resulting designs will be truly individual and created by the customer – limited only by their imagination. Customers will be able to specify the colour and finish of practically every surface of the Batur Convertible, to create a car as individual as they are. Beyond the exterior form of the car lies an almost endless array of choices for each car’s future owner to make. Paint choice is infinite – starting with the full Mulliner colour palette and travelling beyond into fully bespoke paint and even hand-painted graphics. The exterior brightware can be any mix of light and dark, satin or gloss or even titanium. Another subtle option available is a graduated contrast colour to the front grille, for a vibrant ombre effect. The Batur Convertible offers further areas to personalise with the unique Airbridge, tonneau cover and roof materials being able to be specified to complement the rest of the cabin and exterior. In the cabin, the highly exclusive option of 3D printed rose gold includes key driver touch points, such as the Bentley Drive Mode Selector, encircling the start/stop button and used to change chassis modes. The centrepiece of an exquisite cabin, the dial complements the design of the front grille. Rose gold can also applied to Bentley’s iconic Organ Stop vent controls in the dashboard, as well as a rose gold insert marker on the steering wheel itself. Bentley Mulliner has collaborated with expert goldsmiths based in the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, England, where jewellery has been made for centuries, to craft the unique parts. This special collaboration highlights Bentley’s ability to combine new, advanced manufacturing technologies with more traditional materials and finishing techniques. Exclusive and powerful Each Batur Convertible will be handcrafted over the course of several months in Mulliner’s workshop at Bentley’s carbon neutral factory in Crewe, England. Production will be limited to just 16 pieces, each among the last ever Bentleys to be powered by the company’s iconic W12 engine, in its most potent iteration. For the W12 powertrain that the Batur Convertible shares with its coupe counterpart, a revised intake system, upgraded turbochargers, new intercoolers and extensive recalibration enables 750 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, to deliver exceptional performance for this pinnacle grand tourer. This development of the engine is in celebration of its achievements over 20 years, over which time it has been developed to produce nearly 40% more power while fuel economy has improved by 25%. The W12 is paired with Bentley’s eight-speed double-clutch transmission, and a sports exhaust to provide a soundtrack in keeping with the level of performance. The entire exhaust system is in titanium, while the finishers are 3D-printed in titanium. Batur Convertible Car #0 The engineering development car – Batur Convertible Car #0 – has had the same level of attention to detail as a customer’s own specification. The exterior paintwork is a bespoke colour – Vermillion Gloss over Vermillion Satin Duo tone – that provides a vibrant colour across the contemporary surfaces. The bodywork is underscored by front splitters, side skirts and rear diffuser in high gloss carbon fibre. The front of the car features a grille of exceptional art – with the main matrix finished in Gloss Dark Titanium, accented with contrast chevrons in a horizontal ombré pattern that flows from Beluga in the centre and lighten to the vibrant sides in Vermillion Gloss. The “endless bonnet” line is finished in Gloss Dark Titanium paint, as are the 22” wheels – with the spokes in Gloss and Satin Black Titanium with Vermillion Gloss accents. #BATUR #MULLINER