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

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

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

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