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NOVEMBER 2026 VOL 13. ISSUE 05. QR15

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20 34 44 Ready For The Next Rush!

A Little Adventure For Everyday Life

On A Mission To Stand Out

CONTENTS

56 72 86

Back With A Twist

Three Sides Of Paradise

Meet The Piano Man

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• THE EDITOR

Full Speed Ahead!

“

“Racing is a great mania to which one must sacrifice everything, without reticence, without hesitation.” Enzo Ferrari

ovember is here and Doha clearly has no intention of slowing down. With cooler days, a packed calendar and plenty of reasons to leave the house, we're going to need a little extra energy to keep up. Leading the charge is the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix, returning to Lusail International Circuit from November 27 to

29. Three days of racing, fierce competition and high-speed action under the lights? We're already counting down. And the excitement doesn't stop at the racetrack. UFC Fight Night is back for another round, while Power Slap brings its championship to Qatar for the first time. Beyond the sporting action, there's the unmissable Doha Film Festival and the debut of Rubaiya Qatar, the country's first contemporary art quadrennial, whose inaugural edition explores the theme of water. If that puts you in the mood for a little time by the sea, why not head to Old Doha Port and check out the Qatar Boat Show? You don't need to be in the market for a yacht to enjoy it. If all that excitement has you dreaming of a getaway, we've got just the thing. This month, we're taking you to Mauritius, where we discovered three very different sides of island life with Constance Hotels & Resorts. Let's just say coming home wasn't easy. Back in Doha, General Managers Elias J. Moukarzel of Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay and Esra Parin of Park Hyatt Doha shared their career experiences and approaches to leadership. We also caught up with two newly appointed chefs: Piero Nogaro, who has taken the helm at Cucina, and Mohammad Moussa Hadla, who steps into the role of Executive Chef at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. On the motoring front, we explored the Mitsubishi XFORCE Premium, a compact SUV that proves a little adventurous spirit can go a long way. And naturally, we haven't neglected our appetites. Our latest dining adventures took us to the newly revamped Vertigo, Trader Vic's, Al Sufra by Mama Halima and AMARU, while the new Msheireb Foodhall gives us nine more reasons to eat out. As if we needed any encouragement. Add the latest in fashion, beauty, technology and motoring, and November is shaping up to be quite the ride. Better buckle up!

Sirine Boudjadi Editor fact Qatar qatareditor@fact-magazine.com

fact Magazine Qatar Edition • NOVEMBER 2026 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 05 PUBLISHER RAMI KHALIL PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CHIRINE HALABI GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LIZ O’REILLY DIGITAL DIRECTOR NIDHI SHARMA EDITOR SIRINE BOUDJADI DIGITAL TEAM ROHITH TR SUMESH KS SALES TEAM GENE SOLANZO OPERATIONS KIM MARSHALL ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT HADY SAMAHA PHOTOGRAPHY KARL SFEIR PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES chirine@fact-magazine.com STAFF WRITER AMIRA RAGAB ONLINE TEAM ADNAN SIPRA FARAH BAIG CONTRIBUTORS APPLE SHARMA GARETH WOODS LAURA MORRIS PRINTED BY QATAR NATIONAL PRINTING PRESS DISTRIBUTION DAR AL SHARQ All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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“

“Racing amuses me.” ― Enzo Ferrari

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118,983 reads of the October-2026 issue If you need your fact fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Qatar and beyond.

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• FACT FINDS

COME HUNGRY Nine dining concepts, a space for food lovers to get creative and plenty of room to catch up with friends: Msheireb Galleria has a new address for your next meal out.

hoosing somewhere to eat with a group in Doha can turn into a negotiation. One person wants something light, another is in the mood for a proper dinner, and someone else is only interested in coffee. Msheireb Foodhall, which opened at Msheireb Galleria on October 7, is built around a simple idea: everyone can follow their appetite without having to split up. The new arrival brings together nine dining concepts, including six homegrown names and three international brands, under one roof. Developed by Msheireb Properties with hospitality operator TGP International, it's Qatar's first internationally operated food hall. With room for up to 320 guests, the venue is divided into four distinct areas, each offering a slightly different experience. The Main Dining Hall and Terrace are the obvious starting points for an informal lunch, dinner with friends or a stop between errands. Head up to the Mezzanine and things become a little more theatrical, with views of dishes being prepared and opportunities to get closer to the action in the kitchens. For those mixing business with lunch, a semi-enclosed area offers a more private setting for meetings and small gatherings, away from the main dining space. The fourth area is perhaps the most interesting. Rather than simply providing another place to eat, the Food Lab will host visiting chefs, cooking workshops, masterclasses, tasting

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sessions and temporary restaurant pop-ups. The programme is designed to change throughout the year, so a return visit could bring a different menu or a chance to pick up a few kitchen skills. TGP also envisages rotating food concepts and opportunities for emerging Qatari brands to try out new ideas, rather than keeping the same lineup indefinitely. The space itself has been given some thought, too. Rather than going for a standard shopping-centre food court look, the design takes cues from Msheireb Downtown Doha, mixing contemporary design with references to the district’s local architectural identity. According to TGP International, some surfaces even make use of by-products from date seeds, a small but interesting detail in a district known for its sustainability ambitions. Msheireb Galleria is also home to Novo Cinemas, Ground Control, NERF Action Xperience and Play-Doh Fan Factory. If you're making a day of it with friends or family, the food hall gives you somewhere to eat without leaving the building. And with Msheireb Downtown Doha's pedestrian-friendly streets just outside, you can carry on exploring the neighbourhood afterwards. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MSHEIREB.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Three Iconic Stays

to Discover Jakarta

Jakarta offers stays with distinctly different characters. International travelers can see the city through its history, culture, and metropolitan life, on its way to becoming a Top 50 Global City.

The Hermitage Jakarta Housed in a historic Art Deco building dating back to 1923, The Hermitage Jakarta offers a distinctive stay that reﬂects the city's colonial-era architectural heritage. Guests can enjoy a reﬁned dining experience at 1928 Restaurant and panoramic views of the Jakarta skyline from La Vue Rooftop Bar. Located in Central Jakarta, the hotel also provides convenient access to cultural landmarks and historic neighborhoods, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's rich heritage.

House of Tugu

Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta

Located in Jakarta's historic Kota Tua district, House of Tugu offers an immersive journey into the city's rich cultural heritage. The hotel houses an extensive collection of antiques and historical artifacts, including pieces that reﬂect the Peranakan cultural tradition. With its distinctive interiors, carefully curated collections, and evocative atmosphere, House of Tugu offers guests a unique way to discover the stories of Batavia and the cultural inﬂuences that have shaped Jakarta over the centuries.

Roundabout fountain in the heart of the city's major shopping, business and lifestyle district, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta offers 289 rooms and suites with magniﬁcent views of Jakarta. The hotel features a range of facilities catering to conventions and weddings, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars. Integrated with Grand Indonesia, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta also offers unparalleled convenience for all its guests.

All three show how Jakarta has moved forward without leaving its history behind, bringing together heritage, culture, business, and modern city life in one destination.

Experience the Heritage fact magazine

• FACT RECOMMENDS

THINK GREEN Want to make greener choices but not sure where to start? Qatar Sustainability Week is back from October 31 to November 7, bringing workshops, exhibitions and community activities across the country. From cutting waste to saving resources, the focus is on practical ideas you can use in everyday life. Organised by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Qatar Foundation’s Earthna, the 11th edition also invites schools, businesses and community groups to get involved. ✤ FOR

Image by Eugene Hyland

GO: VISIT QATARSUSTAINABILITYWEEK.COM MORE INFORMATION.

HIDDEN WORLDS

INTO THE BUBBLE

Travel to the edge of a black hole, follow oxygen through the human body and discover the invisible links between plants and people... All That Is Unseen at the Media Majlis Museum turns these hidden worlds into an immersive experience. Created by London-based collective Marshmallow Laser Feast, the free exhibition combines large-scale video installations, interactive works and a guided meditation narrated by Cate Blanchett, taking visitors from the microscopic to the cosmic. ✤

A giant bubble bath you can jump into, an underwater world made of lights and rooms that play tricks on your eyes: Bubble Planet is bringing all this and more to Qatar National Convention Centre from December 6. The immersive experience will take visitors of all ages through a series of colourful spaces, featuring optical illusions, 360-degree projections, virtual reality and an infinity room. Expect plenty of surprises and more than a few photo opportunities. ✤

GO: VISIT MEDIAMAJLIS.NORTHWESTERN.EDU/ FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GO: VISIT VISITQATAR.COM/INTL-EN/EVENTS-CALENDAR/ BUBBLE-PLANET FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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Follow the warmth of open flames and the fragrance of saffron, aromatic herbs and delicate spices, as Al Hubara brings a rich tapestry of regional flavours to the table.

QAR 275 per person | QAR 137 per child Every Friday | 7 PM to 11:30 PM For reservation, please call +974 4485 3000 or WhatsApp 5594 9701

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• LISTEN UP

QATAR ON SCREEN Four feature films and a special episode of a documentary series put Qatar-connected storytelling in the spotlight at Doha Film Festival this November.

Landing a world-record dogtooth tuna is no small ambition. In Jodari Meno, Qatari filmmaker Jamal Al Khanji follows his attempt to do just that, turning an extraordinary fishing challenge into a personal journey about obsession, mortality and the search for meaning. It's one of four feature films in the Special Screenings programme at Doha Film Festival, running from November 19 to 27. Together with a special documentary-series screening, the selection will take audiences from the open sea to the gymnastics floor and beyond. In A Very Ordinary Life, a retired Qatari pilot and a young Moroccan art teacher are drawn together without realising they're father and daughter. Dreams, letters and art gradually begin to uncover a long-buried family secret. First to Fly follows two young gymnasts who make history by competing at the Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships. Meanwhile, When the News Breaks You, directed by Qatari filmmaker Hamad Al Hajri, looks beyond the headlines to explore the dangers and personal costs faced by journalists reporting from conflict zones in the Middle East. The programme also offers a glimpse into the world of falconry with Elzam, an eight-part documentary series from Katara Studios. A special episode will screen at the festival, following falconers on hunting expeditions and exploring a tradition deeply rooted in Qatar and the wider Gulf. ✤

GO: VISIT DOHAFILM.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

From ancient shipwreck treasures to contemporary installations, Qatar's newest art event explores our relationship with water through exhibitions and public art.exhibitions and public art.

Qatar, a new international art event opening on November 21 and running until April 30, 2027. Presented by Qatar Museums and organised by ALRIWAQ Arts + Architecture, the inaugural quadrennial brings together more than 120 artists from over 45 countries. Water is the connecting thread, from the Gulf's maritime history to the way oceans, rivers and trade routes have shaped life around the world. The main exhibition, Unruly Waters, opens at ALRIWAQ Arts + Architecture on November 21, with additional works at the Museum of Islamic Art and MIA Park. Expect everything from historic objects recovered from the Cirebon shipwreck off Indonesia to contemporary installations exploring monsoons, ocean currents and the connections between different cultures. From November 22, Katara QM Gallery will host Our Common Currents, looking at our everyday relationship with water through fishing, swimming, agriculture and desalination. At Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Seething Sea will explore the Gulf's connection to the sea through faith, folklore and art, bringing together more than 80 works. There will be plenty to see beyond the galleries, too. Public art projects include a mural at the National Museum of Qatar metro station, an installation at Barzan Towers and a playground in Al Khor. Talks, film screenings, performances and workshops are also planned throughout the five-month programme. ✤

Artefacts from a 10th-century shipwreck, artworks created with the help of AI and a new playground in Al Khor might seem an unlikely combination. But they are all part of Rubaiya

GO: VISIT QM.ORG.QA/EN FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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BEST IN SHOW Fashion shows, pet competitions and adoption opportunities: Nova Paw Festival is bringing a weekend dedicated to our four-legged friends to The Pearl. Doha's pets are getting their own weekend in the spotlight. Nova Paw Festival makes its debut at Pet Park on The Pearl Island on

PAWS FOR A CAUSE Mall of Qatar's first animal welfare initiative combined adoption efforts, family activities and a conversation about responsible pet care. Several rescued animals found new homes at Mall of Qatar on October 3, as the shopping centre hosted its first animal welfare 14

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November 27 and 28, bringing dog and cat competitions, live entertainment and activities for families together in one place. And you don't need to own a pet to join in. The two-day event, Qatar's first international pet festival, has plenty for animal lovers to explore. Expect dog and cat fashion shows, grooming contests and breed competitions, with judging overseen by the World Kennel Union and World Cat Federation. There will also be dog agility demonstrations, veterinary talks and even a live catdrawing competition for anyone who fancies putting their artistic skills to the test. Away from the competitions, visitors can explore adoption areas, browse pet products, stop by food trucks and keep younger guests busy with games and activities. Owners can bring their dogs or cats along at no extra charge, although there are a few important rules: pets need a passport and vaccination record, dogs must pass a behaviour check and stay on a non-extendable lead, while cats must remain in carriers unless competing. Tickets cost QR80 for adults and QR45 for children aged 12 and under, with family packages starting at QR180. Competition entries are separate from admission and require advance registration. The festival runs from 2pm to 10pm on both days, with free parking at MC7 in Viva Bahriya. ✤

GO: VISIT NOVAPAWFESTIVAL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

initiative. Held to mark World Animal Day, Every Paw Deserves a Home brought together rescue volunteers, welfare advocates and families for an afternoon focussed on helping pets in need. Organised with #BigBMeetup, the event aimed to support local rescue efforts and encourage responsible pet care. For the rescue community, seeing families welcome new companions into their homes was a particularly meaningful outcome. Beyond the adoption efforts, the afternoon included face painting and a pet-themed upcycled art workshop, where families could get creative with reused materials. These activities gave younger visitors a way to join in alongside the more serious conversations about animal welfare. One of the main events was a panel titled Animal Welfare in Qatar: How We Can Work Together to Improve the Lives of Our Furry Friends. The discussion brought together Dr Amal Al Malki, a scholar and women’s rights advocate; Gemma Hughs, a Paws Rescue volunteer; Kelly Allen, co-founder of QAWS; Charlotte Gelmetti, from TNR Qatar; and Nagham Al Badawi, co-founder of Furkids Sanctuary. Moderated by Bosco Menezes, founder of #BigBMeetup, the panel explored the challenges facing animal welfare in Qatar and how individuals, organisations and the wider community could work together to improve standards of care. ✤

GO: VISIT BIGBMEETUP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

ON THE WATERFRONT

DOUBLE THE BEAT

From superyachts to fishing boats, Qatar Boat Show returns to Old Doha Port with four evenings of nautical discoveries and entertainment.

ABBA tribute band ARRIVAL and British DJ Jonas Blue are heading to Doha Golf Club for two music events on November 5 and 6.

You don't have to be shopping for a yacht to enjoy the Qatar Boat Show. Returning to Old Doha Port for a third edition from November 4 to 7, the event offers a chance to get a closer look at some seriously impressive vessels, alongside smaller boats, fishing gear and plenty happening on the waterfront. Start with the big ones. The Oceanic Display is dedicated to yachts and boats measuring more than 15 metres, while the Shoreline Display features smaller craft, including sailing and fishing boats. It's a chance to see just how different life on the water can look, from luxury cruising to a day spent fishing. Speaking of fishing, enthusiasts can browse rods, reels and other equipment at Hooks & Reels. Marine technology and equipment also feature, offering a glimpse of what goes into keeping boats running. And the four-day event isn't just about what's on display. Watersports displays, entertainment and family activities are also planned, while waterfront dining gives visitors somewhere to stop between exploring the different areas. The location adds to the experience. Once closely connected to Qatar's pearldiving trade, Old Doha Port now provides a striking setting for modern yachts and boats. The show opens at 4pm daily, closing at 9pm on Wednesday and Saturday and 10pm on Thursday and Friday. Tickets are available online and families should note that strollers aren't permitted on the marina. ✤

Doha Golf Club is changing its tune this month, with two backto-back events bringing very different musical styles to the same stage. Whether you're after a nostalgic singalong or a night on the dancefloor, the weekend has both covered. First up is ARRIVAL, an international ABBA tribute band performing the Swedish group's songs live. The set promises familiar favourites including Mamma Mia and Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, so this is one for anyone who knows the words before the first chorus even starts. You won't be seeing the original quartet, of course, but the evening is built around recreating the music that made them pop icons. The following night brings Jonas Blue to Doha. The British DJ and producer is known for tracks including Fast Car and Perfect Strangers, combining recognisable pop melodies with dance beats. Part of the internationally renowned Ministry of Sound clubbing brand, Friday's event moves away from Thursday's nostalgia and into a more contemporary dance sound. The two music events are presented by Mayfair, but each has its own ticket. Doors open at 7pm for ARRIVAL on November 5, with admission from QR195. For Jonas Blue on November 6, doors open at 5pm and tickets start at QR225. Both evenings are strictly for over18s. Bring a valid physical Qatar ID or passport, as copies and digital versions won't be accepted at the entrance. ✤

GO: VISIT BOATSHOWQATAR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GO: VISIT DOHA.PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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FACE OFF

BACK IN THE OCTAGON

Slap fighting is coming to Qatar for the first time, with two championship titles on the line at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah (ABHA) Arena this November.

After last year's sold-out debut, UFC Fight Night is returning to Doha this month, with two former champions among the fighters heading into the Octagon.

Doha is getting a rather different kind of fight night this November. Power Slap will make its Qatar debut at ABHA Arena on November 19, with two championship titles up for grabs and some of the sport's leading competitors heading to the city. If you're unfamiliar with Power Slap, the rules are quite different from boxing or MMA. Competitors take turns delivering openhanded slaps to their opponent's face, while the person receiving the strike must remain in position without blocking or dodging. Bouts can end in a knockout or be decided by judges' scores. It's certainly not a sport for the squeamish. The main event will see middleweight champion Isaih 'Puerto Rican Pretty Boy' Quinones defend his title against England's undefeated Darren 'Tarantula' Godfrey. Quinones has six knockout victories from nine contests and has held the title for more than a year. Godfrey, meanwhile, arrives with five wins and one no contest, hoping to take the belt from the reigning champion. There's another title on the line in the lightweight division, where unbeaten champion Robert 'Real Deal' Trujillo faces Bryan 'Baby Yoda' Scambler. Trujillo will be defending his title for the third time, while Scambler, who joined Power Slap in 2026, is stepping into his first championship contest. The full fight card has yet to be announced, with fans invited to register their interest through Visit Qatar for further updates. ✤

The Octagon is heading back to Doha. A year after UFC made its Qatar debut, Fight Night returns to Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah (ABHA) Arena on November 21, bringing another lineup of mixed martial arts talent to the city. This year's main event will see former light heavyweight champion Jiří Procházka take on undefeated contender Navajo Stirling in a five-round contest. Currently ranked No. 2 in the division, Procházka faces a rising opponent who sits at No. 5 and has yet to suffer a defeat. It's an intriguing match-up between an established former champion and a fighter looking to make his mark. The co-main event brings another familiar name into the Octagon. Former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, now ranked No. 4 at featherweight, will face No. 9-ranked Kevin Vallejos, adding a second high-profile contest to the evening. Last year's inaugural event sold out ABHA Arena, with Arman Tsarukyan submitting Dan Hooker in the main event and Ian Machado Garry defeating Belal Muhammad. Fans hoping to catch the UFC's return this November can already secure their seats for Procházka vs Stirling through Visit Qatar's ticketing platform, with further bouts still to be announced ahead of fight night. ✤

GO: VISIT VISITQATAR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

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READY FOR THE NEXT RUSH!

From November 27 to 29, the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix returns to Lusail International Circuit (LIC), bringing a new generation of racing machines, fierce competition and three days of high-speed action under the desert lights. 20

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

A NEW ERA OF RACING New cars. New technology. A whole new way to race! Formula 1 has undergone one of the biggest technical transformations in its history and the 2026 season is rewriting the rules of speed. The changes start with the cars themselves. Smaller, lighter and more agile, the new-generation machines feature active aerodynamics, with movable front and rear wings that reduce air resistance on designated straights and provide greater grip through the corners. And here's another major shift: the familiar Drag Reduction System (DRS) is gone. In its place, the new Overtake Mode allows drivers within one second of the car ahead at a designated detection point to access additional electrical energy deployment on the following lap, opening up fresh opportunities for wheel-to-wheel battles. Under the bodywork, the revolution also continues. Redesigned hybrid power units now draw approximately half their power from electricity, making energy management a crucial part of the action. Drivers can recover energy during braking and deploy extra power through Boost Mode, whether attacking or defending a position. The cars also run on advanced sustainable fuels, marking another step in Formula 1's technological evolution. THE SEASON SO FAR What a difference a year makes! Formula 1's sweeping new regulations have reshaped the competitive landscape in 2026 and few stories have been more remarkable than Kimi Antonelli's extraordinary rise. The 20-year-old Italian has 22

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emerged as the season's dominant force, collecting nine Grand Prix victories with Mercedes, including a commanding win at the United States Grand Prix in Austin on October 25. Starting from pole position, Antonelli delivered a masterclass in race management to finish ahead of Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Red Bull's Max Verstappen, moving another step closer to his maiden World Championship. With 365 points to his name, Antonelli holds a commanding 123-point advantage over Mercedes team-mate George Russell, who sits second on 242, while Lewis Hamilton follows closely on 241. Although the title remains mathematically undecided, the young Italian is now on the brink of making history. A ninth-place finish at the Mexican Grand Prix on November 1 would be enough to secure his maiden World Championship, regardless of his rivals' results, potentially making him the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history. Mercedes also leads the Constructors' Championship, with Ferrari its closest challenger. Behind the front-runners, the battle remains fiercely contested, with Verstappen, Leclerc and McLaren's Lando Norris all fighting for valuable positions as the season approaches its final rounds. With Mexico, São Paulo and Las Vegas still to come before Qatar, the championship picture could evolve considerably before the teams arrive in Lusail. But one thing is certain: as the penultimate round of the season, the Qatar Grand Prix will offer one of the final opportunities for drivers and teams to make their mark before Abu Dhabi's grand finale.

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

THE LUSAIL CHALLENGE Unlike last year's Sprint format, the 2026 edition follows the traditional Grand Prix schedule, giving teams three practice sessions to fine-tune their machines before qualifying and Sunday's main event. Friday sets the wheels in motion with two free practice sessions, scheduled for 4.30pm and 8pm, offering drivers their first opportunity to find the right balance between speed and grip. Saturday brings a final practice session at 5.30pm before the pressure rises in qualifying at 9pm, when every fraction of a second counts in the battle for pole position. Then comes Sunday. At 7pm, the lights go out. Fifty-seven laps of flat-out racing, where tyre management, split-second decisions and flawless execution could make all the difference. TURN 1 SHOWDOWN Stretching for more than a kilometre, Lusail's main straight sets the stage for one of the circuit's prime overtaking opportunities. As drivers charge towards Turn 1, heavy braking and split-second decisions can make all the difference, with positions potentially won or lost in an instant. BUILT FOR SPEED Measuring 5.419 kilometres, LIC is renowned for its fast, flowing layout and demanding medium- and high-speed corners. Originally designed for motorcycle racing, it hosted its first Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2021. Its official fastest race lap remains Lando Norris' 1:22.384, set in 2024. 24

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

MEET THE 2026 F1 GRID Alexander Albon

Gabriel Bortoleto

(Williams, #23) The Thai-British driver remains an important part of Williams' ambitions, known for his consistency and ability to extract performance under pressure.

(Audi, #5) The Brazilian continues alongside Hülkenberg, entering his second Formula 1 season as Audi makes its highly anticipated debut.

Fernando Alonso

Valtteri Bottas

(Aston Martin, #14) The two-time World Champion remains one of the sport's most experienced competitors as Aston Martin begins its new partnership with Honda.

(Cadillac, #77) The 10-time Grand Prix winner makes his racing comeback with Cadillac, partnering Pérez in an experienced line-up for Formula 1's newest team.

Kimi Antonelli

Franco Colapinto

(Mercedes, #12) The young Italian has established himself as a leading contender in Formula 1, taking nine Grand Prix victories in 2026 and leading the Drivers' Championship in his second season.

(Alpine, #43) The Argentine remains with Alpine, building on his Formula 1 experience as he looks to establish himself further on the grid.

Oliver Bearman

Pierre Gasly

(Haas, #87) The young British driver builds on his promising rookie season, continuing his development with Haas as one of Formula 1's emerging talents.

(Alpine, #10) The French race winner continues to lead Alpine's efforts as the team adapts to the new regulations and Mercedes power units.

Isack Hadjar

Lewis Hamilton

Nico Hülkenberg

(Red Bull Racing, #6) After an impressive rookie campaign with Racing Bulls, the Frenchman steps up to Red Bull Racing alongside Verstappen.

(Ferrari, #44) The seven-time World Champion continues his Ferrari journey, bringing extensive experience and an enduring hunger for success to the Scuderia.

(Audi, #27) The German veteran plays a key role in Audi's first season as a full works Formula 1 team, bringing years of experience to the manufacturer's ambitious project.

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

MEET THE 2026 F1 GRID Liam Lawson

Esteban Ocon

(Racing Bulls, #30) The New Zealander continues with Racing Bulls, bringing valuable experience to the team as Formula 1 enters a new technical era.

(Haas, #31) The French Grand Prix winner continues with Haas, bringing experience and determination as the American team tackles the new regulations.

Charles Leclerc

Sergio Pérez

(Ferrari, #16) The Monegasque remains a key figure at Ferrari, renowned for his qualifying speed and determination to bring championship glory back to Maranello.

(Cadillac, #11) The six-time Grand Prix winner returns to Formula 1 with Cadillac, bringing extensive experience to the American team's debut season.

Arvid Lindblad

Oscar Piastri

(Racing Bulls, #41) The young British driver made his Formula 1 debut in 2026 after a rapid rise through the junior categories, including three victories in Formula 2.

(McLaren, #81) The Australian continues alongside Norris, bringing his trademark composure and racecraft to one of Formula 1's most closely watched partnerships.

Lando Norris

George Russell

(McLaren, #1) The reigning World Champion proudly carries number one in 2026, continuing his partnership with McLaren as he looks to build on his maiden title.

(Mercedes, #63) The British Grand Prix winner continues as the more experienced driver in Mercedes' line-up, playing a central role in the team's new technical era.

Carlos Sainz

Lance Stroll

Max Verstappen

(Williams, #55) The Spanish Grand Prix winner continues his Williams journey, bringing experience and technical insight to the team's development.

(Aston Martin, #18) The Canadian continues with Aston Martin, bringing continuity to a team entering a major new phase of technical development.

(Red Bull Racing, #3) The four-time World Champion races with number three in 2026, leading Red Bull into a new chapter with its Red Bull Ford power unit.

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A TASTE OF SOMETHING NEW at voco® Doha West Bay Suites

Al Intisar Street, Doha, Qatar

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

BEYOND THE GRANDSTANDS ● Family Friday Who says Formula 1 is just for grown-ups? This November, LIC is bringing families closer to the action with the return of F1 Family Friday, giving younger fans a chance to discover the excitement of Grand Prix racing. Taking place on November 27, the initiative allows up to four children under the age of 12 to attend free of charge with every adult General Admission ticket purchased for QR200. Complimentary children's passes must be booked in advance through the circuit's official ticketing platform. And there's plenty to look forward to. Families can watch the Formula 1 practice sessions from the General Admission viewing area before exploring the Fan Zone, where interactive racing simulators, cultural activities, a dedicated kids' area and the F1 Fan Forum add to the excitement. With food and beverage outlets, merchandise and entertainment also part of the experience, Friday offers a lively introduction to the world of Formula 1. For some young visitors, it could be their very first taste of motorsport. And who knows? Perhaps the beginning of a lifelong passion for racing! ● The VIP Experience

This year, the experience comes with a new touch of luxury. Novikov Doha joins the circuit's Premiere Hospitality offering, bringing its signature Pan-Asian and Italian cuisine to a prime location overlooking the Main Straight and Turn 1. Guests can enjoy trackside views from climate-controlled indoor spaces or an outdoor terrace, with cultural performances and professional DJs adding to the atmosphere. It's an opportunity to combine 30

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the thrill of Formula 1 with a refined dining experience, all within sight of one of Lusail's most exciting overtaking zones. And with grandstand seating, General Admission access and a range of hospitality packages, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of racing beneath the desert lights. ● Your Name On The Chequered Flag

Want to leave your mark on the Qatar Grand Prix? F1 Authentics is giving fans a chance to have their name printed on a square of the official chequered flag used to signal the winner at Lusail. Limited to 160 personalised squares, the initiative offers a unique way to become part of the action. After the race, each section will be carefully cut from the flag and presented in an authenticated display alongside official race photography. A little piece of Formula 1 history to call your own! RACING TOWARDS THE FUTURE LIC has made significant strides in sustainability, earning international recognition in the Sustainable Circuits Index 2026. In August, the venue was named Most Improved and Biggest Mover after climbing 31 places and gaining 17 points in an assessment of 115 motorsport circuits, the largest year-on-year improvement recorded in this year's index. The circuit's sustainability initiatives include rooftop solar panels, electric vehicles used in daily operations and recycling stations built from repurposed wood. The assessment also highlighted accessibility measures, including sensory-friendly spaces for visitors. LIC holds the FIA's Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest level awarded under the federation's environmental programme. ✤

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• GRAND PRIX SPECIAL 2026

UNDER THE LIGHTS Before Formula 1 arrives at the end of the month, MotoGP brings night racing back to Lusail. Here's what to expect from the three-day weekend.

usail International Circuit is pulling double duty this November. Before Formula 1 takes over from November 27 to 29, the same track will host the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar from November 6 to 8. This time, it's the world's leading motorcycle racers taking the corners and they'll be doing it under the floodlights. The Qatar round has a history of doing things differently. MotoGP first raced at Lusail in 2004, and in 2008 the circuit staged the championship's first night race. It remains the only race held after dark on this year's calendar. Watching riders lean their bikes through the circuit's sweeping, high-speed bends is impressive enough in daylight; beneath the lights, the action takes on a different feel. The long main straight, stretching more than a kilometre, also sets up opportunities for overtaking into Turn 1. Originally built to host Qatar's first MotoGP race in 2004, the 5.4-kilometre circuit welcomed Formula 1 for the first time in 2021. If you've never followed MotoGP, think of it as the twowheeled counterpart to Formula 1, although the racing works rather differently. Riders compete on prototype motorcycles in a world championship that began in 1949, making it older than F1. And while the premier class gets top billing, Moto2 and Moto3 also give fans a chance to watch emerging talent in action across the weekend. There’s plenty happening before Sunday's main race. Friday is devoted to practice, when riders work on their setups and find their rhythm around the track. Saturday brings qualifying to decide the grid, followed by the Sprint: a shorter race over

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roughly half the Grand Prix distance, with points for the top nine finishers. Sunday's main event lasts around 40 to 45 minutes, with 25 championship points for the winner and points awarded down to 15th place. In other words, Saturday isn't just a warmup; both races can influence the title standings. And the timing makes this round particularly interesting. Originally planned for April, the Qatar Grand Prix was moved to November, placing it near the end of the 22-round season. After Lusail, only Portugal and Valencia remain, so every point could matter for riders chasing a strong finish. The grid brings familiar names, including Ducati team-mates Marc Márquez and Francesco Bagnaia, Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo and Aprilia's Marco Bezzecchi. There are new faces to watch, too: 2025 Moto2 champion Diogo Moreira has stepped up with LCR Honda, while World Superbike star Toprak Razgatlıoğlu has joined Prima Pramac Yamaha. Moreira is the first Brazilian to win a world title in any Grand Prix class, while Razgatlıoğlu faces the challenge of adapting from Superbikes to MotoGP machinery. For newcomers, following how the rookies measure up against established winners is another reason to pay attention beyond the front of the pack. Three weeks later, Lusail will swap motorcycles for Formula 1 cars. For those planning to experience both weekends, MotoGP tickets are already available through the championship's official ticketing site. ✤ GO: VISIT TICKETS.MOTOGP.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS.

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• CITY RIDES

A LITTLE ADVENTURE FOR EVERYDAY LIFE We took a closer look at the Mitsubishi XFORCE Premium and found a compact SUV that balanced adventurous styling with the comforts and conveniences of everyday motoring. 34

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CITY RIDES •

he Mitsubishi XFORCE Premium has a name that sounds more suited to an elite military unit than a compact SUV. Fortunately, the car itself was easy to get along with. We explored the details and soon found that Mitsubishi had given some thought to the little comforts that can make a big difference when you're spending more time in traffic than your sanity would recommend.

A Sense of Adventure Mitsubishi's Silky & Solid design theme made sense as we walked around the XFORCE. Smooth surfaces met pronounced shoulders and sculpted wheel arches, while the Dynamic Shield front end and bold grille gave it a distinctive face. T-shaped LED headlights were echoed by matching rear lights, giving the XFORCE a recognisable lighting signature, with a roof spoiler adding a sporty touch. Two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels complemented its stance. At 4,390mm long and 1,810mm wide, the XFORCE kept its proportions manageable, while 222mm ground clearance reinforced its adventurous character. We liked that it appeared substantial without being oversized. The result was assertive but tidy; Mitsubishi had given it an adventurous streak without dressing it for a mountain rescue.

Designed Around Daily Life The cabin was a pleasant change of pace after the assertive exterior. Black synthetic-leather upholstery with mocha accents brought colour to the seats, while mélange fabric across the dashboard added warmth and texture. There was more to the cabin's appeal than its digital displays, and we appreciated the attention given to its materials and finishes. The height-adjustable driver's seat and adjustable steering wheel helped us find a comfortable position, with the cabin feeling thoughtfully arranged around us. Behind us, the back seats reclined through eight positions and folded 40:20:40, with a rear centre armrest and cupholders for passengers. An adjustable cargo board accommodated awkward loads, although it cannot be adjusted with the full-size spare tyre fitted. A hands-free electric tailgate made luggage access easier. Storage included a cooled centre-console box. A thoughtful addition, given what happens to a bottle of water left in the car for more than 10 minutes.

The Digital Details The Premium's 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio screen dominated the dashboard, with an eight-inch digital driver display providing essential driving data. We appreciated how clearly it separated entertainment from driving information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto brought familiar phone functions aboard, while wireless charging and USB Type-A and Type-C ports catered for devices. Dual-zone automatic climate control let those up front select different temperatures, while rear vents kept backseat passengers comfortable. The nanoe X system was fact magazine

• CITY RIDES

designed to improve cabin air quality and ambient lighting added polish after dark. Separate temperature settings were welcome, especially when the driver preferred a gentle breeze and the front passenger seemed to be preparing for an Arctic expedition.

Enjoying the Journey The XFORCE's 1.5-litre four-cylinder MIVEC petrol engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) delivered smooth acceleration through city traffic. Pressing the accelerator brought a steady surge of power, while the transmission kept things flowing without conventional gear changes. There was enough enthusiasm for everyday driving, although the XFORCE preferred a relaxed approach rather than pretending it belonged on a racetrack. MacPherson struts up front and a rear torsion beam helped settle the vehicle over uneven surfaces, while Active Yaw Control contributed to its composure through bends. We enjoyed the comfortable ride and predictable steering, which made changing direction feel natural and controlled, without constant steering corrections. Four modes – Normal, Wet, Gravel and Mud – added versatility, although Normal suited most of our driving. Overall, the XFORCE felt comfortable and confident, with enough character to keep the journey interesting without making passengers reach for the grab handles.

Watching Your Back The Premium's safety equipment showed sensible thinking. Six airbags were joined by Blind Spot Warning, which alerts drivers to certain vehicles approaching from behind in adjacent lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert can warn of approaching traffic when reversing, a useful feature in busy car parks, where vehicles can appear just as you're beginning to back out. Active Stability Control, traction control, Hill Start Assist and tyrepressure monitoring added reassurance. An electric parking brake with Auto Hold was another worthwhile feature in stopstart traffic. These systems supported an attentive driver, rather than suggesting that paying attention was optional.

A Force for Everyday Life What stayed with us was the XFORCE Premium's attention to the practicalities of daily life. The exterior had enough presence to feel distinctive, but the more persuasive details were inside: flexible rear seating, useful storage, appealing materials and technology that addressed familiar needs. We appreciated how those features worked alongside the adaptable driving modes and reassuring safety equipment. It was not trying to reinvent the compact SUV. The XFORCE Premium offered comfort, versatility and personality for drivers whose days rarely follow one plan. It might have a name worthy of an action film, but its real talent was making the ordinary considerably more enjoyable. ✤

GO: CALL 4422 7555 OR VISIT MITSUBISHI-MOTORS.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE. 36

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CITY RIDES •

“

The XFORCE Premium offered comfort, versatility and personality for drivers whose days rarely follow one plan.”

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• MOTORING NEWS

ROOM FOR EVERYONE Seven seats, clever tech and plenty of family-friendly touches: the new Mitsubishi DESTINATOR is bringing a little more flexibility to everyday driving in Qatar.

Finding an SUV that can handle the school run, weekend plans and the occasional escape from the city without making life complicated is no small task. Mitsubishi's answer? The new DESTINATOR, a seven-seater designed to make family life on Qatar's roads a little easier. And with seven seats to play with, there's room for more than just the usual passengers. The second and third rows can be reconfigured to accommodate extra luggage, making the DESTINATOR a practical option whether you're heading out with the whole family or loading up for a weekend away. Inside, it's all about keeping everyone happy, including those relegated to the back seats. A 12.3-inch infotainment display takes centre stage, accompanied by an 8-inch digital driver display, wireless smartphone charging and multi-colour ambient lighting. Dual-zone automatic climate control and air vents across all three rows are particularly welcome in Qatar, where keeping cool is hardly optional. There are also seatback tables and USB-A and USB-C ports throughout the cabin, so passengers can keep their devices charged on longer journeys. Selected variants add a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free electric tailgate with height memory, making everything from loading shopping to packing for a family outing that bit easier. Under the bonnet, a 1.5-litre turbocharged MIVEC engine works with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while Active Yaw Control helps improve stability when cornering. Five driving modes (Normal, Wet, Gravel, Mud and Tarmac) let drivers adjust to different surfaces, and 214mm of ground clearance gives the SUV some extra flexibility when the road gets uneven. Mitsubishi hasn't forgotten the less glamorous side of family motoring, either. Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a 360-degree camera system are among the driver assistance features designed 38

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to make navigating traffic and tight parking spaces less stressful. Multiple airbags, stability control and Hill Start Assist add further reassurance. On the outside, 18-inch alloy wheels and distinctive T-shaped LED lights give the DESTINATOR a confident look without straying too far from its family-friendly brief. For anyone keen to see whether seven seats really can make everyday life easier, the DESTINATOR is available to explore and test drive at Qatar Automobiles Company, Mitsubishi Motors' authorised general distributor in Qatar, with showrooms on Salwa Road in Doha and in Al Khor. After all, the real test of a family SUV isn't just what it can do on paper, it's how comfortably everyone fits inside. ✤ GO: VISIT MITSUBISHI-MOTORS.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Salon for Men

www.looks.qa

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• MOTORING NEWS

NEW ARRIVALS From rugged off-roaders to sleek electric saloons, Toyota and Lexus are giving drivers in Qatar plenty of new reasons to take a closer look.

Five new arrivals are shaking up the Toyota and Lexus lineup in Qatar. Unveiled by Al Abdulghani Motors, the latest additions bring a mix of familiar names, fresh designs and electric technology. And with everything from a compact off-roader to a luxury saloon on the menu, there's quite a bit to explore. First up is the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, a more compact take on one of the most recognisable names in off-roading. Don't let its smaller proportions fool you, though. With selectable fourwheel drive, a 2.7-litre petrol engine producing 164hp and a tight 5.5-metre turning radius, it's designed to combine Land Cruiser toughness with a little more everyday manoeuvrability. Inside, there's a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Toyota Safety Sense and a 360-degree camera. Another familiar name getting a refresh is the Toyota Hilux. Now in its ninth generation, the pick-up arrives with a redesigned cabin, improved ride comfort and updated safety technology. Buyers can choose between 2.7-litre and 4.0-litre petrol engines, while a 2.8-litre diesel producing 201hp is offered with the Overland Package. Then comes one of the biggest talking points: the Toyota bZ4X Touring, the brand's first fully electric vehicle introduced in Qatar. With dual-motor four-wheel drive, 280kW of power and a claimed driving range of up to 611km under NEDC testing conditions, it's bringing electric performance into the mix. It can also accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds, while more than 600 litres of luggage space should come in handy for family getaways. Over at Lexus, the all-electric RZ 500e brings a more luxurious approach to battery-powered driving. Built on the brand's e-TNGA platform, it features DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, a 74.7kWh battery 40

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and comfort-focussed touches including ventilated seats, a colour head-up display and IR-cut glass. Rounding out the five is the eighth-generation Lexus ES, which now offers both hybrid and fully electric powertrains. The hybrid delivers 244hp from its 2.5-litre engine, while the electric version steps things up to 338hp with all-wheel drive. Add the comfort, quietness and craftsmanship long associated with the ES, and there's plenty for luxury saloon fans to consider. With everything from petrol-powered off-roaders to fully electric SUVs and saloons joining the line-up, Toyota and Lexus are giving drivers in Qatar more ways to find their next set of wheels. The only tricky part? Deciding which one deserves a test drive first. ✤ GO: VISIT AAMOTORS.COM/EN-QA OR CALL TOYOTA ON 800 1800 AND LEXUS ON 800 2929 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE.

eafood Night Seafood buffet at The Quarter QAR 330 per person

Thursday | 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm Available as buy one get one on discount apps

For more details, call: +974 7151 4087 | www.swissotelcornichedoha.com fact magazine

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Swissotel Corniche Park Towers Doha

• PLUGGED IN

HEAR THIS Sony’s new PULSE wireless headset brings studio-inspired sound to PS5, with an immersive audio experience built for longer gaming sessions. Sony is giving PlayStation users another reason to upgrade their audio setup with the new PULSE wireless headset. Designed for PS5 and compatible devices, it features planar magnetic drivers inspired by studio headphones, promising rich, detailed sound whether you’re deep into a game or simply listening to music. The headset has been designed with everyday play in mind, combining wireless connectivity with a lightweight, comfortable construction that should make longer sessions easier on the ears. It also features 3D audio support for PS5, helping create a more immersive soundscape by making it easier to distinguish where sounds are coming from during gameplay. The understated design keeps it suitably sleek for a gaming accessory, too. Pre-orders opened on October 29, with the headset officially launching in select markets from November 19. ✤ GO: VISIT PLAYSTATION.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BACK TO THE DISC CDs are having a moment, and Musical Fidelity’s new B1xcd is bringing the format back with a decidedly modern hi-fi touch.

Just when you thought your CD collection had been consigned to the attic, Musical Fidelity has given you a reason to bring it back out. The British hi-fi brand has introduced the B1xcd, a new CD player designed to sit alongside its B1 Series amplifier and bring high-end audio know-how to a more accessible setup. The player uses a purpose-built tray-loading mechanism controlled by the BlueTiger CD-88 servo system, designed for precise disc reading, alongside an ESS DAC for high-resolution playback. It handles both new and traditional Red Book (sound quality) audio 42

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CDs, while analogue RCA, coaxial and optical digital outputs allow it to connect to a wider hi-fi system or an external DAC. There’s no streaming, Bluetooth or SACD support here – and that’s rather the point. The B1xcd is all about giving physical music collections their moment again, with a warm, natural presentation and the kind of hands-on listening experience that streaming simply doesn’t offer. ✤ GO: VISIT MUSICALFIDELITY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

PLUGGED IN •

A WORKSPACE YOU WEAR XREAL’s AURA packs a full Android XR computer into lightweight glasses, bringing apps, AI and a giant virtual display into the world around you. Imagine having your apps floating in front of you, wherever you happen to be, without wearing a bulky headset. That’s the idea behind XREAL’s AURA, optical see-through glasses weighing under 95 grams and tethered to a separate computing puck that runs Android XR. The technology is split between the glasses and a small computing puck. The glasses handle the virtual display, hand tracking and Bose-tuned audio, while the puck contains the main processor and battery that power the experience. It also works as a trackpad, letting you navigate apps and control what appears in front of you without adding extra hardware to the glasses. Together, the two create a 70-degree field of view for placing virtual screens and content around you. Because the lenses are see-through, digital content can sit within your real surroundings rather than completely replacing them. Add Google Gemini and Google Play to the mix, and AURA behaves less like a pair of display glasses and more like a wearable computer. Onboard cameras also allow it to do considerably more than XREAL’s earlier display-only models. For travellers, remote workers and early adopters, the appeal is obvious: a private, hands-free workspace on a train, in a hotel room or even at a café table. The trade-off is that AURA isn’t standalone. It relies on a cable connecting the glasses to the

computing puck, meaning there’s another device to carry around. Android XR is also still a young platform, but if you want a glimpse of where everyday spatial computing is heading, in a form light enough to wear for hours, AURA makes a compelling start. ✤ GO: VISIT XREAL.COM/AURA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

TOUCHDOWN Apple’s latest MacBook Pro introduces tandem OLED, Touch and the Dynamic Island to its most powerful laptop yet. There’s a lot happening on the new MacBook Pro, but the headline is quite literally the screen. Apple’s latest professional laptop introduces its new OLED display, using tandem OLED technology to deliver deeper contrast, brighter highlights and a 120Hz refresh rate. More importantly, it finally brings Touch to the Mac. Available in 14- and 16-inch models, the new MacBook Pro pairs the display with Apple’s M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, up to 128GB of unified memory and up to 16TB of storage. The redesigned machine is also thinner and lighter, while a sixspeaker system and Thunderbolt 5 keep it firmly aimed at demanding creative work. Then there’s the Dynamic Island, making its debut on Mac and providing a new home for Spotlight, Live Activities and Siri AI. Pre-orders are open now, with the new MacBook Pro arriving from November 6. ✤ GO: VISIT APPLE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• BUSINESS IN FOCUS

ON A MISSION TO STAND OUT Elias J. Moukarzel, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, talks career lessons, building a strong team and his ambitions for the luxury hotel.

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BUSINESS IN FOCUS •

You studied hospitality in France before taking your career to the Middle East. How did the move change your approach to the industry? France gave me a very strong foundation in hospitality, particularly in understanding the importance of detail, culture, gastronomy and the art of welcoming people. But moving to the Middle East changed my perspective. The region taught me that luxury is not simply about what you provide; it is about how you make people feel. Hospitality here is deeply personal and generous, and you are exposed to guests from every corner of the world. That diversity taught me to become more adaptable, more curious and, above all, more attentive to the individual behind the reservation. You joined Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay in December 2024. What attracted you to the property and to this chapter of your career? Waldorf Astoria is one of the most recognised names in luxury hospitality, and Doha is a destination with tremendous potential. But what really attracted me was the opportunity to shape the next chapter of a relatively young property while being part of a brand with such an extraordinary heritage. The hotel itself gives you an exceptional canvas. From the elegance and scale of our rooms and suites to our restaurants and culinary experiences, and the extraordinary spa, there is a real sense of discovery throughout the property. I have always been drawn to situations where there is something to build, develop or elevate. Coming to Doha allowed me to bring together the experience I had gained across different luxury operations, openings, repositioning and challenging markets, while creating something that could have a lasting place within the city. You’ve been part of hotel openings and major luxury operations throughout your career. What excites you most about building a hotel’s reputation? The most exciting part is that reputation is built through people, not through buildings. Building a reputation gives you the opportunity to establish the right standards, behaviours and mindset from the beginning. I particularly enjoy bringing teams together around a common ambition and helping people understand not only what we’re trying to achieve, but why it matters. When teams feel ownership of the experience they create, service becomes much more natural and much more powerful. There’s also something very rewarding about seeing a hotel move from being a property that people discover to becoming a place that people seek out, recommend and return to. Waldorf Astoria is a name with a long history in hospitality. How do you bring the character of the brand to Doha while giving the property its own identity? For me, the essence of Waldorf Astoria is creating a refined haven, delivering sincerely elegant service and creating unforgettable experiences. Those principles are timeless but how we express them should always reflect the destination. Doha is sophisticated, international and evolving very quickly, while remaining deeply connected to its culture and traditions.

We should feel unmistakably Waldorf Astoria, but we should also feel unmistakably Doha. That comes through in our people, the local partnerships we create and the experiences we curate. Behind every luxury hotel is a large team. How do you create a service culture that feels both consistent and personal? I believe great service starts with great people and great people need to feel trusted, respected and empowered. Consistency comes from having clear standards and making sure everyone understands what excellence looks like. But genuinely elegant service comes from giving people the confidence to go beyond the standard when the moment calls for it. I often tell my team that we should never confuse luxury with formality. The best luxury service can be highly sophisticated while still feeling warm, effortless and human. My role as a leader is therefore not to tell people exactly how to interact with every guest. It’s to give them the tools, knowledge and confidence to make the right decision in the moment. Now that you’ve had time to make the role your own, where do you want to take the hotel next? I want us to continue moving from being a beautiful luxury hotel in Doha to becoming one of the hotels people think of when they think about exceptional hospitality in the region. There’s still a great deal of opportunity ahead of us commercially, creatively and culturally. We want to continue strengthening our guest experience, developing our culinary identity, building deeper relationships within the community and creating experiences that give people a reason to choose us again and again. My ambition is for Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay to be recognised not only for its beautiful product, but for the feeling it creates; a place where guests feel genuinely understood, where our people are proud to belong, and where excellence feels natural rather than forced. ✤ fact magazine

• 5 OVER 5

In Conversation with… Esra Parin

With a career spanning food and beverage, major international events and luxury hospitality, Park Hyatt Doha's General Manager Esra Parin shares the experiences that have shaped her approach to leadership.

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5 OVER 5 •

You built much of your early career in food and beverage before moving into hotel leadership. How did that transition come about? My transition into hotel leadership was a natural progression. Food and beverage gave me an understanding of people, operations, creativity, commercial performance and, above all, the importance of creating meaningful experiences. Moving into broader hotel leadership allowed me to bring that same philosophy to every aspect of the guest journey. I have always believed that food brings people together. Some of our most cherished memories are created around a dinner table. In many ways, hospitality begins long before a guest checks into a room or spends a night in a hotel. It often begins with a cup of coffee, a business lunch or a memorable dinner. Food and beverage is what brings a hotel to life. Over time, the hotel becomes more than a place to visit; it becomes a meeting point, a familiar address and ultimately a community. Doha has been a major part of your career, from W Doha and JW Marriott Marquis to Aspire Katara Hospitality and Park Hyatt. What keeps bringing you back to the city? The answer is actually very simple: Doha was once my second home, but somewhere along the way, it became my home. I have a genuine love for this city, this country and its people. What I particularly love about Doha is its diversity. People from so many nationalities, cultures and backgrounds come together here. I also admire the country’s ambition and vision, and how it embraces progress while remaining connected to its cultural identity and heritage. My connection to Doha has become much more personal than professional. I got married here, and I brought my better half into the life I had built in this city. He has developed the same affection for Doha, and we both genuinely enjoy the life we share here. Every time we travel abroad and return, driving from the airport along the Corniche, passing the National Museum of Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art, the Fanar, Souq Waqif and Msheireb, we experience that unmistakable feeling of being back where we belong. Before joining Park Hyatt Doha, you oversaw operations at Doha Port and were involved in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 catering programme. Can you tell us about that experience? Being part of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 was undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary experiences of my professional life. Through Aspire Katara Hospitality, we were involved in managing a catering programme that delivered approximately 2.8 million meals across 15 client groups, with a dedicated programme management team of more than 150 international professionals coordinating 16 catering companies. To put the complexity into perspective, the programme included 35 different catering service levels, 222 food and beverage concession units across key fan areas, and more than 5,600 food safety inspections. What made the experience truly special was the extraordinary sense of unity and shared purpose. We were bringing together people from different cultures, nationalities and professional backgrounds. My experience at Doha Port was another fascinating chapter, requiring a different approach to hospitality operations and reinforcing the importance of adaptability, teamwork and attention to detail.

You became the first female General Manager of a Hyatt hotel in Doha when you took the helm at Park Hyatt Doha. How significant was that milestone for you? Naturally, it is a milestone that makes me very proud. However, throughout my career, I have always believed that leadership should be defined by one’s abilities, values, commitment and the difference one makes, rather than by gender. That being said, representation matters. If my journey can inspire other women, particularly young women beginning their careers in hospitality, to believe in themselves, then that makes this milestone even more meaningful. When I reflect on the most rewarding moments of my career, they are not necessarily the promotions or the title. The greatest satisfaction comes from people. Seeing someone I have mentored grow into a confident leader or knowing that I have contributed in some small way to someone’s personal or professional development is incredibly fulfilling. Looking ahead, where would you like to take Park Hyatt Doha in the coming years? Ultimately, my goal is for Park Hyatt Doha to become more than a luxury hotel. I want it to become a defining part of Doha’s hospitality landscape: a place where international guests feel genuinely welcomed and the local community feels a true sense of ownership and belonging. If we can make the hotel unmistakably Park Hyatt while remaining deeply and authentically Doha, we will build lasting emotional connections. ✤ fact magazine

• VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN

A NEW CHAPTER Newly appointed to lead Cucina at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, Chef Piero Nogaro brings his Milanese heritage and decades of international experience to the restaurant. We caught up with him to talk family influences and keeping Italian traditions alive.

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VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN •

Professional kitchens were part of your life long before you became a chef yourself. What is one thing you picked up from your childhood that has stayed with you throughout your career? I grew up in my parents' Michelin-starred restaurant: my mother was the chef and my father a sommelier. I worked every station in the kitchen over the course of eight years and learned a tremendous amount. They taught me professionalism, passion, sharing and the art of making the guest feel at home. The best memories are linked to our customers, artists, VIPs and politicians, who entered the kitchen, tasted and told their stories. Lots of professionalism and lots of laughter. This isn’t your first time working in Doha, but you’re now returning to lead Cucina. What made this particular opportunity interesting enough for you to come back? The opportunity is perfect because Cucina is a trattoria/ restaurant, therefore a lighter concept where the environment is professional, familiar, fun and with an authentic Italian style. Cucina represents me because my character is like that too and my personal imprint will be to give our customers the same experience they can have in Italy. You’ve cooked Italian food in countries around the world, adapting to different ingredients, cultures and dining

environments along the way. What is the one rule that, for you, is essential to keeping Italian food truly Italian? Working on all continents with different cultures and religions, I have learned to adapt because sometimes some ingredients are difficult to find or because they are not allowed. The experience gained over time led me to replace them while respecting our traditions and techniques, maintaining the same authenticity of Italian cuisine. Basically, our cuisine is based on the combination of a few simple ingredients. A compromise that I don’t find correct is to merge different types of cuisines or ingredients that don't belong to our panorama, because by doing so we pollute traditions and distort our culinary history and culture that has been handed down to us for generations. What is your signature dish at Cucina? How did you develop it and what makes it special to you? Being born and raised in Milan, I chose the Wild Mushroom Risotto with Brown Veal Jus. It's a dish that I find satisfying, sumptuous and balanced; it contains our traditions and all the flavours of Northern Italy. The reason why it is so special? One day I went with my dad into the woods to hunt for mushrooms; after we got home, I said, "I'll cook risotto for lunch today". I got to the stove and, before serving it, I let my mother taste it, and she said to me: "Piero, why don't you add a spoonful of brown jus?". I followed the advice, she was right and I was amazed! ✤ fact magazine

• CHEF IN FOCUS

TAKING THE LEAD After a decade at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, newly appointed Executive Chef Mohammad Moussa Hadla reflects on his culinary journey, the importance of teamwork and taking the next step in his career.

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CHEF IN FOCUS •

Could you take us back to the beginning of your culinary journey? What first inspired you to become a chef and which experiences have shaped your career along the way? My culinary journey started at home, growing up in a family with a strong culinary background, with my father and uncles being Executive Chefs. Being surrounded by their passion for food and their dedication to the profession gave me an early understanding of what it means to be a chef and inspired me to follow the same path. Over the past 20 years, my journey has been shaped by experience, hard work and a constant desire to improve. I’ve learned that being a chef is much more than cooking; it’s about creativity, discipline, leadership, and creating memorable experiences for people. Today, what motivates me most is continuing to grow and sharing my knowledge with the next generation of chefs. Having been part of The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa since 2016, you've witnessed a decade of evolution. What has kept you inspired all these years and how has the hotel shaped your own journey? What has kept me inspired is the people I work with, the challenges we face, and the opportunity to keep learning and improving. Since joining The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa in 2016, I’ve had the chance to grow, take on new responsibilities and work on many different events and experiences. The hotel has played an important part in my journey, helping me grow not only as a chef but also as a leader. You’ve recently been appointed Executive Chef. What does stepping into this role mean to you and what excites you most about this new chapter? Becoming Executive Chef is a very proud moment for me, especially after more than 20 years in this industry. It represents years of hard work, learning, and the support of the people who have been part of my journey. What excites me most is the opportunity to bring new ideas, develop my team and create food experiences that guests will remember. For me, this role is not just about the title; it comes with greater responsibility to lead by example and support my team. How would you define your cooking style? What sets your approach apart? Any signature dish you’re particularly proud of? I would describe my cooking style as a mix of tradition and creativity. I respect the original flavours of a dish but I also enjoy adding my own touch. For me, good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it needs quality ingredients, the right technique, and a lot of care. One dish I’m particularly proud of is my grilled sea bass with creamy lemon sauce and fresh herbs. I enjoy working with sea products because it allows you to keep things simple while still creating something full of flavour. The inspiration behind this dish is the balance of flavours. The sea bass has a delicate, natural taste, while the creamy lemon sauce adds richness and freshness without overpowering the fish. The grilling brings a light smoky flavour, and the fresh herbs complete the dish.

As Executive Chef, what kind of leader do you aspire to be for your team? I want to be a chef who leads by example, supports the team and gives everyone the chance to learn and grow. I know how challenging kitchen life can be because I’ve been through it myself, so I believe in listening to my team, being fair and working together to solve problems. I’m also a firm believer in discipline and responsibility. For me, the best feeling is seeing my team improve, gain confidence and achieve things they may not have thought possible. Now that you're taking the helm, what are you most eager to change, reinvent or introduce? I’m excited to bring fresh ideas to our menus, try new concepts and give our guests something different to look forward to. I want to focus on creativity, consistency and making the most of the talent we have in the kitchen. I’m also looking forward to giving my team more opportunities to share their ideas. For me, it’s not about changing everything just for the sake of change, but about finding the right ways to improve, surprise our guests and keep moving forward. ✤ fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

A NIGHT OF FLAVOUR AND CATCH-UP Amira Ragab enjoys an easygoing evening at AMARU, where warm hospitality, vibrant flavours and a lively setting make dinner worth lingering over.

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

don’t visit Doha very often, so whenever I’m in town, I like to make the most of my time by catching up with a dear friend who lives there. After her workday wrapped up, we decided to meet for dinner at AMARU, a restaurant she had enthusiastically recommended. Tucked away on the seventh floor of the JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, it proved to be precisely the kind of venue that elevates an ordinary evening together into something memorable. From the moment we arrived, the reception was genuine and inviting. The hostess greeted us with a warm smile and personally guided us to our table, setting an effortless, relaxed tone for the night. That sense of hospitality remained seamless throughout our visit: attentive, intuitive service that was engaging and friendly without ever feeling intrusive or rushed. The restaurant’s physical aesthetic adds immense charm to the overall dining experience. AMARU has a distinct, tropical character, harmonising lush indoor greenery, warm natural wood elements, woven rattan pendant lights and plush, inviting seating. Soft ambient illumination keeps the atmosphere laid-back, while subtle accents of red light infuse a slightly more energetic, intimate mood as the evening progresses. Gently playing in the background, a curated soundtrack creates a vibrant backdrop without ever competing with the conversation — a crucial detail for a dinner centred just as much on catching up as on fine food. We kicked off our culinary journey with the Beef Nachos Chilaquiles: a generous, vibrant platter of salsa rojo-soaked chips generously crowned with grilled striploin, crisp lettuce, cheese, rich sour cream and velvety avocado cream. As a devout meat fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

lover, I requested the beef medium-rare; the kitchen executed it flawlessly, delivering tender, deeply flavourful cuts of striploin. Every single bite provided a delightful interplay of crunch, creaminess and savoury richness, quickly cementing this starter as an early highlight of our meal. Next arrived the Shrimp & Palm Heart Salad, offering a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the nachos. Succulent, sweet shrimps were paired seamlessly with creamy avocado, crisp baby gem lettuce, tender hearts of palm, sweetcorn, red chilli and delicate onion. Bursting with vivid colour and contrasting textures, it presented a beautifully balanced profile that refreshed the palate before we ventured into our main courses. My friend then insisted I try the Mushroom Quinotto. Having never tried quinoa before, I was admittedly sceptical about whether it would suit my personal tastes. It turned out to be a delightful revelation. Combining wholesome quinoa, edamame, earthrich mushrooms and tender asparagus, all bound together by a vibrant aji amarillo sauce and a generous grating of Parmesan, the dish was exceptionally rich, comforting and deeply satisfying. I certainly didn’t expect a single plate to completely change my perspective on quinoa, yet it did so effortlessly. We complemented this with the Steak and Potatoes, a classic comfort combination executed to high culinary standards. Once again, the kitchen got the prime striploin exactly right, delivering meat cooked to an ideal medium-rare that was tender, juicy and packed with flavour, topped with a zesty, fresh chimichurri. Served alongside crisp fries lightly dusted with Parmesan and accompanied by a creamy truffle dip on the side, it was the sort of reassuring, well-crafted main course that is nearly impossible not to enjoy. To accompany our mains, we selected a pair of handcrafted mocktails. The Sunset Crush was delightfully tropical, harmonising mango, orange, pineapple, lime and a subtle 54

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homemade rosemary cordial. Meanwhile, the JW Fizz offered a lighter, effervescent profile, combining strawberry, lychee, garden-fresh mint and sparkling soda. Both proved wonderfully refreshing without overpowering the flavours of our food. One aspect that stood out during our meal was the consistency and rhythm of the overall service. Nothing felt hurried, yet dishes arrived in a timely, well-paced sequence that allowed us to settle into the experience without any awkward lulls between courses. This thoughtful timing allowed the evening to unfold at its own natural pace, precisely what we needed after a long, demanding day. AMARU feels particularly suited to these unhurried occasions: a sanctuary where you can arrive with a simple dinner plan, order a selection of varied dishes and gradually realise that several hours have passed simply because the conversation and environment flow so easily. By the time dessert arrived, we had already spent hours in deep conversation, yet we naturally found room for a sweet conclusion. The churros were served golden and crisp on the outside, light and pillowy within, accompanied by rich chocolate, sea-salt caramel and vanilla dipping sauces. Interactive and indulgent, they made for a fittingly decadent finale. What impressed me most about AMARU was how effortlessly every element aligned. The intuitive service, seductive tropical interiors and varied menu created a space where hours dissolved into continuous, joyful conversation. We left thoroughly content, expertly fed and already looking forward to our next visit. ✤

GO: CALL 5506 2798 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

Authentic Lebanese food, fresh saj made live and entertainment in the garden. Come hungry and bring your favourite people - Teta has plans.

Every Friday

1PM - 4PM QAR 149 per person with soft beverage

Book your seat before Teta fills the table.

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• NEW IN TOWN

BACK WITH A TWIST Vertigo is back at Banyan Tree Doha with a new Pan-Asian menu and plenty of personality. Sirine Boudjadi heads there to see what's cooking. 56

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NEW IN TOWN •

evamping a restaurant is always a bit of a gamble. I never got to try the old Vertigo, but knowing it’s at Banyan Tree Doha, I hardly need convincing to check out its new incarnation. Now embracing Pan-Asian cuisine, the menu features everything from sushi and Japanese sandwiches to Wagyu and tempura. Quite a lot to choose from, then. Naturally, we want to try a bit of everything. We ease into things with a bowl of salted edamame and the Kani Salad, a colourful mix of crab stick, cucumber and tobiko, tossed in QP (Kewpie) mayo, a Japanese-style mayonnaise with a slightly tangy edge. The Passion Fire Shrimp is also rather hard to ignore. Golden, crispy fried prawns are coated in a chilli and passion fruit glaze, giving them a sweet, tangy kick with a bit of heat. A scattering of sesame, wasabi peas and delicate celeriac crisps add texture, while slices of red chilli bring an extra flash of colour. One turns into two. You know how it goes! Before we get too carried away with the food, there's the small matter of drinks. Neither of our mocktails is actually on the menu. We mention that we're not particularly keen on sweet drinks, and the team offers to make something to suit us. One option combines pineapple, ginger, galanga and lime cordial; the other mixes watermelon, plum and strawberry with a touch of togarashi. Both are excellent and refreshingly far removed from the syrup-heavy mocktails we're used to avoiding. We wouldn't mind seeing these become permanent fixtures on the menu. One of the new signatures (and one of our favourites) is the Samurai Sando. Four thick beef sandwiches sit on a black platter, each topped with tiny red pearls and a little gold leaf. It's quite a fact magazine

• NEW IN TOWN lot of effort for a sandwich but we appreciate the ambition. Inside, soft white bread holds a substantial layer of panko-crusted beef, with homemade mustard and tonkatsu sauce on the side adding plenty of character. It's messy enough to require a proper grip and we're not about to attempt it with a knife and fork. The sushi selection makes an entrance of its own, arranged on a raised bamboo display surrounded by leaves and decorative branches. There's a lot happening around the rolls, although thankfully there's plenty to talk about once we actually start eating them. The Crimson Tuna Maki combines spicy tuna tartare with avocado, yuzu cabbage and black garlic mayo. We're told the black garlic takes two to three weeks to prepare, which seems a remarkable amount of patience for something we manage to eat in seconds. The Crispy Salmon Maki is even less conventional. The entire roll is deep-fried, with salmon, avocado and melted Brie inside. It's certainly not the sort of sushi we'd order if we were in the mood for something light but it's easily our favourite of the lot. The Passion Prawn Maki, with tempura prawn and avocado, rounds out the selection, alongside tuna, salmon and shrimp nigiri. After all the elaborate maki, the simpler pieces are a welcome change. We could probably call it a night here. Instead, we move on to the grill. The Tori Yuzu Heat Skewers feature grilled chicken thigh topped with cabbage sunomono, a Japanese-style pickled cabbage salad, spring onions, sesame and yellow chilli. A touch of yuzu kosho, a citrus and chilli condiment, adds a tangy kick. The Australian Wagyu MB8-9 Rib Eye is a different story. Thick slices of beef are laid out over a tabletop grill, cooked to our requested temperature. It's tender, buttery and doesn't need much dressing up. We also have some vegetables and Mushroom Takikomi Gohan, a Japanese-style rice dish with mushrooms, truffle and chives. A few spoonfuls alongside the Wagyu make for a welcome change of pace, although we're starting to question our ability to finish everything we've ordered. That doesn't stop us looking at dessert. We settle on the Chocolate Hazelnut, where smooth chocolate mousse meets a crisp crumble and soft buttermilk sponge. Caramelised pineapple comes as a clever addition, its fruity acidity cutting through the richness of the chocolate, while hazelnut brings a nutty contrast. It's a nice balance of soft and crisp, sweet and tangy, without letting the chocolate dominate every mouthful. The setting is a big part of the experience too and Vertigo certainly isn't one for playing it safe. Leopard-print armchairs surround round glass tables with little gold lamps and glossy black floors reflecting the colourful light from enormous digital screens. A futuristic desert landscape unfolds in electric blues, pinks and purples, making for a seriously eye-catching backdrop. It's bold, a little over the top and seriously good-looking. And from 8pm, a DJ takes over the decks, adding to the evening's atmosphere. This is definitely the kind of place where you spend almost as much time admiring your surroundings as you do eyeing up the food. Approved! ✤

GO: CALL 3990 5557 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING. 58

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• ON THE MENU

A TASTE OF LEBANON, A FEELING OF HOME Amira Ragab discovers a taste of Lebanon in Doha at Al Sufra by Mama Halima, where heartfelt hospitality and a comforting bowl of soup bring childhood memories flooding back.

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ON THE MENU •

t Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha, Al Sufra by Mama Halima offers more than Lebanese comfort food. It brings the warmth of village hospitality, the nostalgia of old Beirut, and cooking that can take you back to your mother’s kitchen. I last visited Lebanon in 2022. I spent time with locals, was welcomed into village homes and experienced generosity that makes you feel less like a guest and more like family. So, when I arrived at Al Sufra, I was surprised by how quickly I was transported back: not simply the food or décor, but the warmth of being welcomed without ceremony. My first encounter was with Theresia, who greeted me at the door with the easy warmth of someone welcoming an old friend. Learning it was my first visit, she showed me around the spacious restaurant, introducing me to its corners and, above all, Mama Halima herself. Meeting the woman behind the name added a personal touch: she was part of the spirit that makes the place so welcoming. What struck me most was the devotion to nostalgia. Photographs and portraits brought from Lebanon line the walls beside décor that feels personal rather than staged. I lingered over images of icons like Fairouz, while snaps of Beirut brought back its lively streets and leisurely walks along the Corniche. For a moment, I was no longer in Doha, but somewhere between the Lebanon I

remembered and the one I had always wanted to return to. Khairallah became my attentive host, looking after me with effortless hospitality that cannot be taught from a service manual. He insisted I return when the weather cools to try the outdoor seating. Looking towards the sea and greenery, I could already picture a cooler evening there. Before I ordered, he brought me carrots to nibble while I browsed the menu, a small gesture that set the tone. As my time in Qatar is not permanent, I tried as much as I could. My advice: don’t follow my example too enthusiastically, as the portions are generous. Come with company, arrive hungry and leave room for the unexpected. I began with salads, cold mezze, hot mezze and soup, and each time I added a dish, Khairallah smiled: “Your wish is my command.” The Mama Halima salad combined tomatoes, walnuts, pomegranate, mint, green onion, olives, olive oil and wild za’atar under a lemon-garlic dressing. Fresh, aromatic and balanced, it showed what simple ingredients can do with care. No Lebanese meal is complete without mezze, so I ordered Warak Enab, Mutabal Beetroot, Hummus, Muhammara and Labneh. The labneh was creamy, the mutabal rich and smoky, the hummus silky. The muhammara deserved a moment of its own. Textured and full of depth, it carried a subtle floral note, almost like blossom water, that I couldn’t place. Unexpected but delicate against the fact magazine

• ON THE MENU

smoky, savoury base, it kept me going back for more. The warak enab was brighter: vine leaves stuffed with herbaceous rice and topped with pomegranate molasses, with a lemony zest and gentle sweetness. Warm tandoor and regular bread finished the spread, ideal for scooping up every last trace. The hot mezze were just as good. The Fried Kibbeh was exceptional, with toasted almonds inside and pine nuts for texture. The spinach fatayer and meat sambousek had balanced seasoning and light pastry. The chicken and potato soup changed the mood of the entire meal. It arrived, and suddenly I was a child again. I was back in my family home, my mother feeding us as we ran around her, impatient and hungry, trying to squeeze in one more bite before the meal was ready. I could almost see her setting bowls in front of us. The soup was warm, comforting and homely, with a flavour that takes you home. My eyes filled with tears. I picked up my phone and called my mother. “I miss you.” The restaurant serves a dish of the day, and luck was on my side: chicken with rice. The chicken was crisp outside and tender within, served over well-seasoned Egyptian rice, tinted rich brown and scattered with pine nuts, almond slivers and pistachios. I felt less like a diner and more like royalty, and with a name like Amira, I couldn’t resist: this was dining like a princess. But how could I visit a Lebanese restaurant with a shawarma station and not try the shawarma? The mixed plate came with beef and chicken, pickled turnips, cucumber pickles, garlic sauce and tahini. Both were juicy and flavourful, a match for the shawarma on the streets of Lebanon, yet served as a generous, polished plate. By then, I wondered whether I could take another breath. 62

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Khairallah suggested tea with mint, sensible as ever, but tea without dessert? Surely not. I ordered traditional favourites alongside Lazy Mama, a carob molasses cake with crispy biscuits, a pairing of sweetness and crunch. The cream kunafa was comforting and indulgent, the baklava delicately layered, and the chocolate lazy cake a fine finish. Midway through the meal, Mama Halima herself came to the table to ask whether I was enjoying it. In an age when hospitality can feel rehearsed, having the person behind the restaurant speak to her guests made the warmth genuine. I came hoping to explore a Lebanese restaurant and left feeling I had revisited a little of Lebanon itself. I will be back. ✤

GO: CALL 4035 5555 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

Touchdowns & Throwbacks A lively beachfront diner and sports bar blending remastered classics with high-energy retro vibes. Catch live games on big screens, groove to old-school tunes, and savor elevated comfort food by the coast.

For more information, please call +974 4035 5555 or visit Kempinski.com/Marsamalaz Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha | Costa Malaz Bay - The Pearl • Doha • Qatar

fact magazine

• FLAVOUR HUNT

A TROPICAL NIGHT TO SAVOUR Bold flavours, indulgent dishes and plenty to share: Laura Morris returns to Trader Vic’s at Hilton Doha to rediscover a long-standing city favourite.

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FLAVOUR HUNT •

ome restaurants become favourites for a reason and Trader Vic’s Doha has long been one of those places for many in the city. It was lovely to return and, for me, the warm welcome felt rather like seeing an old friend again. We were greeted with genuine warmth, with the team attentive and engaging without becoming overly formal. There was an easy friendliness from the outset that made the evening feel personal. The starters soon began to arrive and this was very much a meal to be enjoyed family-style, with plates passed around and everyone trying a little of everything. First came a wonderful selection of sushi, presented on an impressive platter surrounded by dry ice. The theatrical presentation immediately drew everyone’s attention before we had even picked up our chopsticks. Fresh and beautifully presented, it provided a lighter opening to what would become a generous feast. Then came the Beef Cho Cho. Marinated beef skewers were finished over a flaming hibachi at the table and watching them cook as the flames flickered beneath made this more than just a starter. Once the glossy soy-sake glaze was added, the beef was tender, deeply savoury and full of flavour. The interactive cooking naturally became a talking point around the table. The Crispy Prawns were another immediate hit. Succulent prawns were encased in a beautifully crisp Japanese breadcrumb coating, making them particularly moreish and very quick to disappear. For something fresher, the Trader Vic’s Salad combined shrimp, house greens, Belgian endive, heart of palm, artichoke and mushroom with the restaurant’s Japanese dressing. The mix

of textures and savoury dressing offered a welcome contrast to the richer starters. By the time the main courses arrived, the table was filled with colour, texture and enticing aromas, with everything designed for sharing. Tender marinated chicken formed the base of the Kung Pao Chicken, coated in Vic’s signature sauce alongside onion, celery, bell pepper and roasted cashews. The sauce had plenty of depth while the vegetables retained their bite and the cashews brought a pleasing nuttiness. The Peking Duck brought another element of interaction, served with soft wheat pancakes, cucumber, scallions and hoisin plum sauce. Crisp on the outside yet tender within, the duck was wonderfully balanced by the freshness of the cucumber and scallions. Building each pancake ourselves made it particularly enjoyable around the table. Then there was the Black Angus Rib Eye, beautifully cooked and accompanied by both béarnaise and peppercorn sauces. Having two sauces meant every mouthful could be slightly different, while creamy mashed potatoes and indulgent truffle potato wedges completed the dish. But the Lobster Chilli was the one that really stole our attention. Canadian lobster was tossed in a wok with a fragrant homemade chilli sauce, creating an intensely aromatic dish in which the delicate sweetness of the lobster remained at the forefront. There was plenty of heat, beautifully balanced by the savoury depth of the sauce. We kept going back for another bite, and it was easily the dish that generated the most excitement around the table. Towards the end of the meal, we were fortunate to meet Chef Remesh, who came over to speak with us personally. Warm and fact magazine

• FLAVOUR HUNT

genuinely kind, he took the time to ask about our experience and chat about the dishes we had enjoyed. It was a lovely personal touch to end such an extensive tasting. By then, we had certainly eaten with our eyes as much as our taste buds; the vibrant colours, textures and thoughtful finishing touches made each course as inviting to look at as it was to eat. Dessert brought four very different creations. Rich and gooey, the Chocolate Fondant gave way to mango and passion fruit ganache, with coconut streusel and vanilla ice cream adding contrasting textures and temperatures. Our favourite, though, was the Baked Skillet Cookie. Served warm from the oven in its own skillet, it was soft in the centre and packed with white chocolate and macadamia nuts, with vanilla ice cream slowly melting into the warm brown sugar cookie. Chewy, buttery and wonderfully indulgent, it was particularly difficult to share. The Island Banana Fritters offered crisp fried banana with gula melaka sauce and peanut croquant ice cream, the caramelised sweetness working beautifully with the roasted nuttiness of the peanut. A more delicate finish came from the Pandan Coconut Crème Brûlée, with silky pandan and coconut custard beneath a thin layer of caramelised sugar. All four were thoroughly enjoyed but the skillet cookie disappeared fastest and was the one we were still talking about after the last spoonful! The setting is very much part of the Trader Vic’s experience. Soft lighting, bamboo detailing, carved wooden features and Polynesian and Tahitian influences give the interior its unmistakable identity, while darker tones and pockets of colour create a rich, intimate atmosphere. The décor has character without feeling overly themed with a real sense of care in how the different elements come together. It felt established and individual rather than simply tropical. Our table beside the 66

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window overlooked the sea, and as more guests arrived, the restaurant gradually filled. Conversation flowed, drinks were poured and lively background music added energy without becoming intrusive. Outside, the terrace glowed as evening settled in, adding to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere. We left feeling genuinely grateful for such a wonderful evening, with the warm hospitality and excellent service making us feel so well looked after throughout. I would happily recommend Trader Vic’s for a night with friends or dinner with your partner, particularly when you want to make a real occasion of it. Take your time, order generously for the table, settle in with a drink and enjoy the atmosphere; it’s somewhere to savour rather than rush. ✤

GO: CALL 3006 8272 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

fact magazine

• FOODIE CORNER

A PERSIAN AFFAIR Forget the usual brunch suspects. Sirine Boudjadi heads to Azal at Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha for a Friday feast with a distinctly Persian twist.

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FOODIE CORNER •

riday brunch in Doha isn't exactly a novelty. But swap the usual international buffet for a spread of Persian specialities and suddenly our weekend plans look a little more interesting. That's the idea behind Azal's Persian Friday Feast, where grilled kebabs, saffron-scented rice, traditional stews and a generous helping of sweet treats take over the menu. We've arrived hungry, which, judging by what's on offer, is probably just as well. Our first stop is the cold selection, where the Salad Shirazi makes a strong case for keeping things simple. Chopped cucumber, ripe tomatoes and white onions come dressed in lemon juice, olive oil and dried mint, making for a refreshing start before the heavier dishes enter the picture. The Zeytoon Parwardeh, meanwhile, is rather more intriguing. Green olives, walnuts and pomegranate might sound like an unusual trio, but the combination of salty, nutty and fruity flavours works surprisingly well. There are also yoghurt-based appetisers to dip into, including cucumber and mint, spinach and garlic, and Persian shallots, alongside traditional lavash and sangak breads. All very tempting. Next up is the Ash-e Reshteh and this is where things get properly comforting. The traditional Persian noodle soup comes loaded with herbs, beans and lentils, topped with tangy whey and crispy fried onions. It's hearty, full of flavour and exactly the sort of thing we'd happily settle down with on its own. Except, of course, we're at a brunch and stopping at soup would be a rather questionable decision. Especially when there are kebabs involved. The grill selection turns out to be our favourite part of the feast. First, the Koobideh, with skewers of minced lamb served alongside grilled tomatoes. There's no need for complicated accompaniments here. The meat does the talking and we're more than happy to listen. The Joojeh Zafarani gives it some serious competition. Grilled chicken is prepared with saffron rice and tomatoes, the fragrant rice adding a little extra indulgence to an already satisfying plate. Between the two, our plans to sample absolutely everything are starting to look rather ambitious. Not that the rest of the spread is short on temptation. There's Dizi, a slow-cooked lamb dish with chickpeas, potatoes and tomatoes and Khoresht-e Fesenjan, where duck is simmered with walnuts and pomegranate paste. Rice lovers aren't forgotten either, with Baghali Polo combining broad beans and saffron, while Zereshk Polo brings barberries into the mix. Eventually, we reach that familiar brunch moment when another savoury plate seems like a terrible idea. Dessert, however, is an entirely different matter. There's a whole parade of sweets waiting, from baklava and delicate pastries to traditional ice cream and faloodeh. Make sure you save some room for the Saffron Rice Pudding, better known as Sholezard. Made with basmati rice, saffron, almonds, cinnamon and rose water, it's a fragrant, gently sweet way to finish. And after all those kebabs, something a little different is exactly what we're after. The surroundings are every bit as colourful as the food. Curved terracotta banquettes, plush teal chairs and warm wooden floors create a cosy contrast with the restaurant's more eye-catching features. Autumn-coloured trees bring a splash of copper and gold to the dining room while oversized Persian-inspired murals, fact magazine

• FOODIE CORNER

shimmering pendant lights and textured walls give the space plenty of personality. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the Corniche, adding another reason to linger a little longer. And it's not all about the looks. Music fills the room, adding to the festive Friday atmosphere and making the whole experience feel like a celebration. ✤

GO: CALL 7151 4082 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING. 70

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Constance Le Chaland

• TRAVEL

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TRAVEL •

THREE SIDES OF PARADISE An invitation from Constance Hotels & Resorts took the fact team on a journey across Mauritius, where each destination brought a fresh reason to fall in love with island life. fact magazine

hen Constance Hotels & Resorts invited us to discover three of its Mauritian properties, we didn't need much convincing. Five nights, three luxury hotels and a tropical island waiting to be explored? We've certainly faced more difficult assignments. Our journey would take us from the south-east coast to the east and then north-east, revealing different sides of Mauritius along the way.

Constance Le Chaland

• TRAVEL

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Constance Le Chaland Constance Belle Mare Plage

The first two nights were at Constance Le Chaland, close to the airport yet surrounded by greenery and a stretch of pale sand. Le Chaland made a lovely first impression, with its natural surroundings providing much of the appeal. Buildings sat among tropical planting, paths wound through the grounds and the overall impression was wonderfully unhurried. It was an appealing introduction to Mauritius, where escape appeared to require little effort. The accommodation complemented the resort's peaceful surroundings, with garden-facing rooms, ocean-view retreats and spacious suites offering different ways to enjoy the setting. For those travelling with family or friends, the private-pool villas introduced an additional level of space and seclusion. Balconies and terraces provided an inviting link to the outdoors, while the rooms combined contemporary conveniences with local touches. The larger suites added separate living areas; the villas offered private pools and plenty of room to spread out. Even an overpacker would have struggled to fill the space. It wasn't long before the resort's culinary offerings had our full attention. Horizon, our first evening's destination, brought together international favourites and local influences, with breakfast buffets and live cooking stations adding plenty of choice the following morning. Lunch at Aqua fitted comfortably into the relaxed daytime rhythm, while our hosted dinner at Flame & Tide gave the ocean a starring role. Its emphasis on grilled seafood, meats and local produce suited the seaside surroundings, with open cooking and wide views providing an atmospheric backdrop. There was much to discover beyond the dining tables. Our programme included singing bowl meditation by the Aqua pool, an introduction to archery and time on the water for snorkelling and a glass-bottom boat excursion. A walk towards Royal Palm Forest offered another perspective on the landscape. It was a delightful introduction to the island's natural beauty, and a reminder that some of the best holiday memories are made away from the sun loungers. Constance Spa offered its own invitation to slow down, with treatment rooms and outdoor massage pavilions among the facilities. Yoga and other well-being activities complemented the setting. We were beginning to suspect that our ambitious plans for productivity would not survive the week.

Constance Le Chaland

A Gentle Start at Constance Le Chaland Iko Mauritius

Constance Le Chaland

TRAVEL •

Constance Belle Mare Plage

A Change of Pace at Belle Mare Plage Our next two nights at Constance Belle Mare Plage revealed a livelier, more expansive personality. Spread along a twokilometre beach, with gardens and an extensive collection of restaurants and leisure facilities, this was a resort where choosing what to do next could become an activity in itself. The long shoreline remained the main attraction, its sheltered waters inviting guests to alternate between exploration and unapologetic relaxation. The accommodation options were equally broad. Prestige Rooms offered comfortable beachfront or sea-facing stays, while Junior Suites provided additional room to settle in. Deluxe Suites featured separate living areas, and the private-pool villas took things further with secluded terraces for families or friends. Throughout the resort, the rooms' warm colours and modern furnishings complemented the natural setting without competing with it. Belle Mare Plage was particularly persuasive when it came to food. LaKaze, our arrival lunch venue, delivered a casual beachside atmosphere, with salads, grilled selections and desserts suited to leisurely afternoons. Dinner at Deer Hunter shifted the setting to the Legend golf course, overlooking the 18th green and offering a menu of regional flavours and specialities, including venison. Breakfast at La Citronnelle presented an altogether different challenge: deciding between its generous selection of international cuisines and live cooking stations. The restaurant also hosted our cooking class and subsequent lunch, a cheerful opportunity to engage with the culinary fact magazine

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side of the resort rather than simply admire it from our seats. For dinner, La Spiaggia offered a more intimate oceanfront experience, with Mediterranean-inspired cooking served on a wooden deck. From casual beachside lunches to elegant evening dining, Belle Mare Plage certainly knew how to keep our appetites entertained. Golf was another major part of the hotel's identity, with two championship courses, Legend and Links. Our introduction at Legend allowed us a taste of the sport, although nobody was in immediate danger of being recruited for the professional tour. Elsewhere, swimming pools, water sports, a fitness centre and activities for younger guests ensured that different generations could follow their own holiday agendas. The spa appointment was a particularly welcome pause. Constance Spa provided treatment rooms, sauna and steam facilities, and opportunities to step away from the busier parts of the property. With massage sessions included in our itinerary, wellness had its rightful place alongside gastronomy and adventure. In a resort offering this much, finding time to do absolutely nothing required some determination.

An Elegant Finale at Prince Maurice A short transfer brought us to Constance Prince Maurice for our final night. The change in atmosphere was immediately noticeable. Set within extensive private grounds on the north-east coast, the hotel embraced a quieter style of 76

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Constance Prince Maurice

Five nights had been enough to discover three different sides of Constance hospitality, but nowhere near enough to exhaust their possibilities."

Constance Prince Maurice

Constance Belle Mare Plage

• TRAVEL

Constance Prince Maurice

TRAVEL •

luxury, with lush vegetation, sheltered water and discreetly arranged accommodation. Where Belle Mare Plage encouraged us to roam, Prince Maurice made lingering in one place seem an equally appealing achievement. Its thatched-roof Junior Suites were distributed among the gardens, beside the beach and on stilts overlooking a natural fish reserve. Family Suites provided additional space, while the villas offered separate living rooms and, in selected beachfront options, private heated pools. The extraordinary Princely Villa added multiple terraces and two pools. Privacy and comfort shaped the experience, with furnished outdoor spaces encouraging guests to enjoy their surroundings at their own pace. Lunch at L'Archipel introduced the hotel's dining credentials. Overlooking the pool and beach, the partly open-air restaurant offered Mauritian-influenced gourmet cuisine in an elegant but approachable setting. Later, drinks at the floating bar provided a memorable prelude to dinner at Le Barachois. Reached along a wooden walkway, this extraordinary restaurant occupied floating decks above the fish reserve, with views across the lagoon. Seafood was the focus, but the setting alone made it one of the journey's most distinctive dining experiences. With a setting this impressive, the restaurant could probably have served toast and still received a standing ovation. A further spa session fitted into our stay, with Constance Spa's garden setting and thermal facilities adding to the sense of escape. The following morning's visit to Flacq Market offered a brief encounter with life beyond the resort gates before the journey towards the airport. From its lush landscapes to its vibrant local culture, Mauritius had given us plenty to discover, and we had thoroughly enjoyed every opportunity to do so.

Three Hotels, One Memorable Island What made this trip rewarding was not simply the chance to visit three excellent resorts, but the contrast between them. Le Chaland offered nature-led calm, Belle Mare Plage combined seaside leisure with an impressive culinary and sporting offering, and Prince Maurice provided an intimate, quietly luxurious conclusion. Each gave us plenty of reasons to linger, and together they showed how varied a Mauritian escape could be. As we prepared to return home, we found ourselves reflecting on just how comfortably we'd settled into the Constance way of life. From leisurely mornings to indulgent evenings, every day had brought something worth remembering. We had plenty of wonderful experiences to share with our readers, and an overwhelming desire to experience it all again. ✤

GO: VISIT CONSTANCEHOTELS.COM OR FOLLOW @CONSTANCEHOTELS ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOR HER

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CELEBRATE DIWALI WITH COLOUR AND CRAFT • FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS •

H&M marks the Festival of Lights with a special collection for women and men that’s rich and bold, just like the traditions of the period. fact magazine

• FASHION FOCUS

he new collection, which has just appeared in stores, brings women’s wear that tells its own story and plays on the energy of celebration, catching the light with fabric and intricate embroidery that moves as if it's dancing. Confidence runs through the offerings, cut in silhouettes that command a presence. The first drop unfolded in a moody hush of black, taupe, off-white and cream, joined by burgundy and dusty rose. Jacquard soft tailoring meets draped deco dresses, one-shoulder cuts and waterfall capes. The second drop warmed into bronze, gold, olive and stone. Matching tops and skirts drape artfully across the body, while the jacquard collarless jacket, that ties at the side, and cuffed wide-leg trousers evoke a relaxed, sophisticated feel. For men, the feel is more traditional with rich detailing in shirting fabrics, coupled with deep colour themes and comfort styling. Ulrika Schalin, Design Lead at H&M, said: “For this year’s collection, we’re excited to bring craft and confidence to Diwali dressing. It’s about rich textures and ornate details, a look that feels elevated and modern while remaining effortless to wear.” ✤ GO: VISIT WWW2.HM.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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WE ARE COMING BACK HOME OUTDOOR LIVE MUSIC VENUE E V E RY F R I D AY

HE ER RA AT TO ON NG GR RA AN ND DD DO OH HA AR RE ESSSO OR RT T& &C CO ON NV VE EN NT TIIIO ON NH HO OT TE EL L H E R A T O N G R A N D D O H A R E O R T & C O N V E N T O N H O T E L SSSH

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• ARTS & CULTURE

MEET THE PIANO MAN: THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC fact caught up with musician Jonty Keys to learn about his history, influences and inspiration. 86

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First off, what brought you to Qatar and how long have you been in the country? We arrived in December of 2017 as Claire [my wife] had been recruited by Sidra hospital prior to its opening in early 2018. I figured that with several thousand expats I could probably teach and gig to keep myself busy. What I couldn’t know was Covid was round the corner but that proved to be a life-changer for me as I built a home studio, taught myself to use it and started writing my own music for the first time in 25 years or so! Please tell us a bit about your background - when did you first discover your musical talent and set out to make a career/life in entertainment? I think it discovered me! There was always a piano in our house as my dad was a music teacher and played piano, classical guitar and even tenor horn at one point I seem to remember. I started having lessons at the Manchester School of Music in 1974, I’d have been six that year, and played classically until maybe ‘83 or so. I used a few photos of me at the piano as a kid in the Torn video (https:// youtu.be/eWycAACarKE?si=ZIQ0NYG9UoKk2ujW). The reason I stopped my classical lessons was frustration at being able to play sonatas, preludes and nocturnes but having no idea how to work out a Human League riff. Not much changed until I got to uni when I had a few flirtations with other musicians but I didn’t have a clue about playing in a band so nothing much came of it. I used to escape to the practice rooms though (usually from the union bar!) to try and play some rock ‘n’ roll on the pianos in there. Uni did teach me that I didn’t want a traditional career and music was still very much in my heart – I just didn’t have any idea how to go about it. After graduating and taking a few terrible jobs in telesales and accounts that further confirmed my incompatibility with office life, I managed to get a job in a music shop in Manchester as the keyboard specialist (not that I knew much about keyboards either but I could at least play them). One day, Woody – my old geography teacher from Sixth Form – came in and revealed in a chat that he was in a band and the keyboard player had just left. Would I care to audition? The rest, as they say, is – a somewhat chequered – history. If you’re interested, I have a playlist on my

YouTube channel dedicated to the bands I’ve been in - or at least the ones I remember being in. I'm assuming Keys isn't your given name, so how did the character of Jonty Keys come about? You’re right, it’s a professional name. I adopted it here in Qatar. My real name is Jonathan Thomas Heslop, which you’ll see in the writer’s credit on my albums; but both Jonathan and Jon Heslop were already taken on the social media platforms when I wanted to set up my musician’s profile. Prior to coming to Qatar, it hadn’t mattered as I wasn’t really interested in having a solo online persona (I was a band man!). I used to refer to myself as Jon T Heslop for a while (don’t ask: Star Trek, probably) so that’s where the ‘Jonty’ came from, and you’ve already worked out the ‘Keys’ bit. I understand you also do a rather fabulous (and, from the pictures, seriously energetic) Elton John tribute. Is the attraction his piano playing or is there something else about his performances that drew your attention? Here’s another tale! It was actually playing in a concert organised by my friend Thomene where she asked me to do I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues with her – around the time Elton had just officially retired from gigging. Before we came to Qatar, I was about to join Tom Hingley’s Inspiral Carpets, bizarrely a tribute to the band he used to be a lead singer of, so I knew that tributes could be a lucrative avenue. It occurred to me that Elton could be a winner: you couldn’t see him live any more unless you had USD2m for a private gig and he’s one of the best-selling artists of all time. I was mostly familiar with Elton from the ‘80s onwards and he wasn’t really down with the kids in those days but when I researched his back catalogue it knocked me out. I mean, I’d heard most of his hits like Rocket Man, Yellow Brick Road and Crocodile Rock but never paid much attention to them. Back in the first half of the ‘70s Elton was absolutely on fire and I never knew. He took the same influences I did - Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Johnny Johnson – and fused them with his classical training, just as I’ve tried to do. So, I suppose that, and the idea that I could make good money from it, is what drew my attention. fact magazine

• ARTS & CULTURE on napkins and encouraging audience participation. The modern version that we recognise today was born in 1986 when Alley Cats opened in Dallas, Texas, and developed a theatrical version of the New Orleans concept. The idea for adopting the format here belongs to Meli at Candela who set up and runs Black Rabbit, I believe.

You're known around Doha for your rock 'n' roll performances with The Carbs. What is Doha like for a musician, how have you seen the development of the music scene there and what's needed for that scene to continue to grow healthily? I am now, but it’s taken a while to build that up. In truth I’ve found it difficult as a gigging musician here – but in part that could be my own fault in not having adapted to it particularly well. It’s not like the UK where there’s a circuit for most types of music. Or there was when I was living there. Around Manchester there were enough venues within 30 miles that you could play every night of the week and return to the same ones maybe only twice a month if that. In Qatar there’re only a few venues that don’t import a resident band. We’ve lost a couple of the more traditional type places like the old Rugby Club and the Admirals Club that I played at when we first arrived, although bars like the Shamrock, the Irish Inn, Highmore and Bricks still do a good job of supporting independent bands, and the punters there are pretty openminded about what they like to hear. I’ve still had to adapt and take requests for songs that I might not have considered back in the day. I can’t just play my own favourites!! As for what’s needed for the scene to grow, that’s a tricky one. I think that it’s difficult for the bars here to provide live music. Individual musicians need to be licensed rather than bands so it can be costly for them, so perhaps that administrative burden might be made easier. Still, there are also open mic nights run by the Doha Players group and Peter Gibson of The Exiles (for whom I play keys) organises the Rockaway and Retro festivals periodically, which are excellent opportunities for less experienced musicians and local bands respectively. You also play as part of Dueling Pianos at Black Rabbit; it sounds like great fun. Can you explain how it works and where the idea for that format came from? Yeah, it is a good craic! It’s not a duel at all: it’s two pianists and a drummer working the room taking requests, keeping the energy levels up and interacting with the audience. You can trace its roots back to New Orleans in the late 19th century when ragtime piano players would actually compete – trying to outdo each other’s speed and virtuosity for audience approval. It became institutionalised in the 1930s when Pat O’Brien’s bar opened featuring two pianos with the performers taking requests written 88

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As well as covers, you write and produce your own compositions. Where do you find inspiration? Please tell us about your most recent release and what's coming next? My most recent solo album was Dangerous Times (my fourth) which I released on February 20 this year. Eight days later the US and Israel launched their offensive against Iran plunging the region into, well, Dangerous Times. I can’t claim that was anything other than coincidental though as it takes me the best part of a year to make an album. I find inspiration from novels, films, experiences. I make a note in my phone of whatever phrase I think I can use and raid its content when I sit down to write the album. Funny you should ask as I decided to try and document the writing process for my next album, Trojan Horse, on my YouTube channel. I’ve actually finished writing the songs now and I’m in the studio producing them but I’ve only managed to make three videos so far. All in good time! I've also recently released Breathing Fire, my second collaboration with a young violinist based in Iraq, Land Bryar Fatar. He sends me a violin track, and I build a song around it, adding keyboards, guitar and vocals before producing the final recording. It's a fascinating process because, apart from the considerable generation gap, his compositions don't follow conventional song structures. That pushes me to write in a more stream-of-consciousness way, which has produced some really interesting results! In the last couple of months, you've released a cover of Natalie Imbruglia's Torn, what's been the reception so far and do you have plans to put out any more covers or will you be sticking with your own original work? It’s been well received, thanks. It’s not done as well as Natalie’s version, mind – though hers was actually a cover too. The original recording was by the American indie band Ednaswap in 1993. I’m not sure what inspired me to do it really. I always liked Natalie’s track and something made me want to have a crack at recording my interpretation of the song. Maybe make it less whimsical? Anyway, I got my long-time collaborator and friend Bobby Grant to play the guitar solo and another old friend and collaborator Julian Lowe to master it, as he does my albums. I wanted to put something out in the hiatus between Dangerous Times and Trojan Horse but not use more than one original track (the double A-side Calling Your Name) from the new album. I don’t plan to record any more covers but you never know! What advice would you offer someone wanting to get into the music scene in Qatar? Sign up with one of the agencies like Candela to get gigs. Make sure you have a popular setlist – if you can get the punters singing along, you’re golden. Believe in yourself and be patient. Roll with the punches: it can be unpredictable at times. ✤

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• ENTERTAINMENT

A selection of the new movies and TV releases you won't want to miss this month.

GHOST SOLDIER Director: William Eubank Cast: Jim Caviezel, Olivia Thirlby, Beau

Knapp, Garret Dillahunt, Shea Whigham

A former Special Forces soldier and weapons developer living quietly off the grid is forced back into action when a powerful foreign corporation threatens to seize his land and that of his neighbours. Armed with technology unlike anything seen before, Fitz finds himself taking on an enemy far more powerful than he expected. A throwback action thriller built around a one-man army.

Prime Video

MASTERPLAN

Director: Thomas Vincent Cast: Stanley Tucci, Simona

Tabasco, Victor Belmondo

A legendary thief sets his sights on the Mona Lisa and assembles an unlikely team for the ambitious heist: an Italian cybercrime expert and a French explosives specialist. As the plan takes shape, long-buried secrets and unexpected family ties threaten to complicate the operation. Stanley Tucci leads this stylish heist comedy, filmed across France and Italy and now streaming on Prime Video.

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EBENEZER: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Director: Ti West Cast: Johnny Depp, Andrea Riseborough, Ian McKellen, Rupert Grint, Daisy Ridley, Sam Claflin

Ti West, the director behind Pearl and MaXXXine, puts a distinctly gothic spin on Charles Dickens’ festive classic. Johnny Depp stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly Londoner whose Christmas Eve is interrupted by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. Expect less cosy Christmas cheer and more old-fashioned ghost story, closer to the darker spirit of Dickens’ original tale.

THE HUNGER GAMES: SUNRISE ON THE REAPING Director: Francis Lawrence Cast: Joseph Zada, Ralph Fiennes, Jesse Plemons, Elle Fanning, Glenn Close

Set 24 years before Katniss Everdeen’s story, the latest Hunger Games instalment takes us back to the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. Joseph Zada stars as a young Haymitch Abernathy, while Ralph Fiennes takes on the role of President Snow. Francis Lawrence returns to direct the fifth film in the franchise.

Netflix

THE ALTRUISTS

Creator: Graham Moore Cast: Julia Garner, Anthony Boyle,

Karan Soni, Alex Lawther, Matt Rife

Netflix’s new eight-part limited series dives into the extraordinary rise and fall of FTX through the relationship between Sam BankmanFried and Caroline Ellison. Julia Garner and Anthony Boyle star as the ambitious young couple at the centre of a rapidly expanding crypto empire, where idealism, romance and billions of dollars collide. Inspired by reporting from New York Magazine, the drama explores the people behind one of the biggest financial scandals of recent years.

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• ENTERTAINMENT

FULLY BOOKED

Some great new sounds for you to check out this month.

MEMOIR

SET ME FREE By Cameron Whitcomb Cameron Whitcomb brings his raw, emotionally charged sound to Set Me Free, a track featured on the third season soundtrack of Nobody Wants This. With his distinctive vocals at the centre, the song carries a restless, heartfelt quality that feels equally at home in a soundtrack and on its own. Released on October 23.

Take My Word for It By LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton opens up about the life behind the roles that made him a household name, from Roots and Star Trek: The Next Generation to Reading Rainbow. Moving between childhood, family, the Civil Rights era and his decades in entertainment, Take My Word for It promises an intimate look at the experiences that shaped one of America’s most beloved storytellers.

MESS LIKE MINE By Blair Davie Blair Davie arrives with Mess Like Mine, a fresh release that captures the complicated, imperfect side of relationships. Released on October 23, the track pairs an intimate lyrical approach with a contemporary sound, making it an easy addition to your newmusic playlist. A promising introduction to an artist worth looking out for. FANTASY / YOUNG ADULT

The Last King of Faerie By Cassandra Clare

TARANTINO By LISA LISA turns cinema into pop with Tarantino, a high-energy track inspired by the unmistakable world of filmmaker Quentin Tarantino. Released as part of her Press Play EP, the song leans into swagger, attitude and cinematic references, while its accompanying video follows LISA on an action-packed mission through a hotel. The result is pure LISA: bold, playful and made to be watched as much as heard.

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Cassandra Clare returns to the Shadowhunter universe with The Last King of Faerie, the first book in the long-awaited final trilogy of the series. When Drusilla Blackthorn is kidnapped and taken to the dangerous realm of Faerie by Prince Ash Morgenstern, she finds herself caught between ancient magic, perilous alliances and an attraction she never expected. With romance, adventure and dark fantasy at its centre, it marks the beginning of another chapter in Cassandra's sprawling supernatural world.

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• SOCIETY

RED MONDAY TURNS UP THE HEAT IN DOHA Who said Mondays have to be quiet? Red Bull turned Nobu Doha into a buzzing meeting spot for the city's hospitality and nightlife insiders, complete with live music, entertainment and plenty of surprises.

Images by @karlsfeir

onday nights aren't usually associated with big parties but things looked a little different at Nobu Doha on October 26. Red Bull hosted the first-ever edition of Red Monday in Qatar, bringing together professionals and key figures from the hospitality, food and beverage, nightlife and entertainment industries, for an evening packed with music, performances and plenty of activities. More than just a chance to have a good time, the event was all about catching up with familiar faces, making new connections and sparking potential collaborations, all while mixing business with a little pleasure. And what better setting than Nobu at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha? Overlooking the city's skyline, the venue was given a bold makeover with red lighting, striking graphics and eyecatching installations inspired by Red Bull's signature colours. Not Your Average Monday The guest list brought together some familiar faces from across the industry, including General Managers, CEOs, business 94

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owners, hospitality directors and event organisers, alongside Red Bull athletes, international DJs, media personalities and influencers. fact magazine was also in on the action as the event's media partner. And there was no shortage of entertainment. DJ Nakamaleon kept the beats coming, while regional saxophone star O Alan brought an extra dose of energy to the mix, alongside live electric guitar performances. Dancers dressed in elaborate feathered costumes brought a theatrical twist to the evening, catching guests' attention as they mingled and explored the venue. For those who fancied a little friendly competition, a racing simulator offered the chance to put their driving skills to the test. Meanwhile, a Red Monday-branded claw machine, stocked with Red Bull caps and accessories, had guests trying their luck at scoring some goodies. And the surprises didn't end there. Red Bull athlete and global BMX flatland world champion Viki Gómez showed off his skills with a cycling performance, adding some adrenaline to a night that we won’t be forgetting anytime soon. If this first edition is anything to go by, we’re already looking forward to the next Red Monday!

SOCIETY •

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• SOCIETY

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SOCIETY •

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About? Right Man For The Job

Not On Our Bike

Vegemighty Stink

We’re currently trying very hard to ignore all election news – it’s not easy but the alternative is desperately depressing. However, this little snippet did raise a smile when it caught our attention. UPI reports that British Columbia man Brady Rogers, 33, managed to win election to his local authority, Kelowna City Council, despite repeatedly branding himself unqualified for the job. Brady ran an amusing campaign with slogans such as ‘I barely want to do

We absolutely love the recent tale of Londoners finding an alternative use for the city’s much maligned Lime e-bikes. In recent years, the infamous Lime Bikes have come in for criticism over parking issues and leg injuries. Several boroughs have even banned them in favour of rival firms. But it seems there is one group of people who are very much in favour of the quirky, two-wheeled transport, using the bikes as substitute steeds for modern-

A convicted murderer in Australia recently lost his battle to get Vegemite back on the menu in his Victoria jail, despite arguing that withholding the yeast-based spread breached his human rights. AP reports that Andre McKechnie, 55, took his battle to the state of Victoria’s Supreme Court, arguing that being refused Vegemite denied him his right under the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act to ‘enjoy his culture as an Australian in the community with other persons of Australian background’. The ban was imposed because prison

this’, ‘Just trying to pay my rent’, ‘Fine. I'll do it’ and ‘How hard can it be?’ Not exactly the most persuasive. Even his campaign website opened with the message: ‘Do I enjoy politics? No. Do I know what I'm doing? No. But am I qualified? Also no.’ It seems the local electorate appreciated his honesty and handed him the job with Brady declaring himself ready to serve and hopeful of doing a good job. Would that all politicians were so truthful.

day jousting competitions. In fact, news organisation LBC reported that hundreds gathered in the capital’s London Fields area for a jousting contest featuring opponents in what appeared to be full medieval armour! Apparently, it started as a joke but developed into a bona fide community beano, with video from the event going viral online, prompting bike rental company Lime to respond that its bikes are ‘not for jousting’. Spoilsports.

authorities say smearing items with Vegemite can disguise the smell of contraband, such as drugs, making them difficult for sniffer dogs to identify. But the prisoner, who claims the lack of Vegemite makes him sad, unsuccessfully put forward a whole range of arguments to the contrary, including a neighbouring state’s inclusion of the spread on its menu and the Australian Olympic Committee’s success in overturning a Chinese import ban on Vegemite ahead of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. We reckon Mr McKechnie has too much time on his hands, but then, he is serving life.

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