Qatar Happening June 2017

QATAR’S

QR 10

FAVOURITE

EVENTS

MAGAZINE

June 2017

Ramadan Kareem

QH Talks to Debaj Brand Ambassador Elisabete Reis

Chef For A Day The Torch Doha GM Sherif Sabry Accepts the Challenge

About next level Abaya Design

Win A Night Stay, A Spa Treatment & Dinner for Two

A Taste of Ramadan Chek out QH’s selected choices for Iftar & Suhour

ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS

At Intercontinental Doha Hotel & Residences

CULTURE

FOOD

COMMUNITY

SPORTS

A fun photo contest just in time for summer This June, QH Magazine launches a photography competition for its readers as a ‘thank you’ for the support and encouragement we receive and which we greatly appreciate.

To participate, take a photograph of yourself doing something cool while holding a copy of QH Magazine. Your imagination and creativity are the winning factors!

Winners will have their photograph published in our magazine and receive prizes from our generous sponsors.

Reminders: 1. The photos should be in high resolution; 2. Post the photo on your social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) with the hashtag #QHMagazine, #qatarhappening, #Iamhappening or #QHMag.

I’m

HAPPENING 2

This month, water sports Instructor Hector Niembro Alvarez, shows off his skills while enjoying QH. (Thank you, Hector, sharing this perfect shot with us.) His picture can give you an idea of what we’re looking for!

So get your camera ready and give wings to your imagination as you show us your “I’m Happening” moment!

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Qatar Happening

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg 36

Fashion Insider The Look Of Modest Elegance

June 2017 EVERY ISSUE 7

ENTERTAINMENT

Editor-In-Chief’s Letter

QH’s Editor-In Chief shares what’s new in this issue

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I’m Happening

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The QH Grab Bag

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Doha At A Glance

QH launches a new contest for readers - join now!

QH gives you a chance to win exciting goodies every month

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12 14

Catch up on recent corporate news and products announcements

104 It Happened

Need-to-know phone numbers

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening

New film tackles themes close to her heart Salma Hayek shares the latest about her new movie, family, and life in London

Works Of Qatari Artists

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Preserving The Past

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Adorned the newly opened Fraser Suites Westbay Hotel to share with the future UCL Qatar students curate an exhibition about this historic place

Virgin Recommends

Virgin Megastores shares the newest and hottest from gadgets to music

Spotlight On Movies

QH brings you the top five must-see films of the month

COMMUNITY 28

Top Picks

30

Mum In Doha:

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An Expat Shares Her Experience Of Ramadan

ARTS & CULTURE

QH’s photo gallery showcases who's who at Doha’s latest events

116 Phone Directory

Salma Hayek

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Top Picks

The latest creative, cultural, and civic activities

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Ramadan:

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Beneath Qatar’s Waves:

A time for prayer, fasting and renewal of faith

Check out this month's local scene Losing weight after having a baby Here’s one way to do it

QH shares how one expat saw the beauty and benefit in the practice.

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Doha College:

Teaching language and culture Teaching Arabic is key to fostering multiculturalism

For the first time, an underwater archaeological study of Qatar

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening

CHECK OUT www.qatarhappening.com for the latest information

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Qatar Happening

For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FASHION & LUXURY 36

Fashion Insider The Look Of Modest Elegance

QH talks to Elisabete Reis on Debaj's innovative versions of the traditional abaya

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56

Alilia Timeless Fashion Marks Its Summer17 And Ramadan Collection Alilia channels boho-chic style

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Hanna Andersson

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Digel The Menswear Concept

Westin promises delightful new concept For iftar and sohour

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50

QH Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca tells us what it's like to be behind the wheel of a Quattroporte

Usfuur Jewellery A Piece For Peace

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68

70

54

Fasting: What It Is, What It Means

Word Of Mouth

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Where To Go

Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com luciana@qatarhappening.com Call Details: Inquiries: +974 4443-2224 +974 4427-8416 Marketing: +974 5584-4905 Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar

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Where To Go (Ramadan Offerings)

The best hotel destinations for Iftar and Souhour

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Top Picks

The freshest news in games and sports

Fasting And Wellness During Ramadan A Balancing Act For Success

Can one still exercise during Ramadan?

Here's how to do it safely

QH SENSATIONS 89

Top Picks

90

Fraser Suites West Bay Opens In Doha

SPORTS 83

Proper Posture It Can Lengthen Your Lifespan

Who knew that posture affects health?

Find out how

The best dining destinations during this Ramadan season

Explore the freshest in wellness, health, travel, and more

A luxury property in Doha now open for business and leisure

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The Curve Hotels Skinsation: A Philosophy Of Care

The Curve Hotel's Skin Sation spa provides a no-frills, high-quality philosophy of care

HAVE YOUR SAY Feedback and comments are always welcome.

Please forward letters to the editor:

Ramadan Flavours At The Westin’s Arabian Food Bazaar

A lucky QH reader is chosen to review a restaurant. This month: Fanajeen Café

Discover the best of dining in Doha

All about fasting during Ramadan, its meaning, and significance

pg 56

Celebrating Ramadan Tradition

At the InterContinental® Doha. Iftar and sohour setting

FOOD & DINING Top Picks

Chef Challenge: Versatile Papaya

A chef shares recipes starring a healthy ingredient. This month: Papaya

QH chats with one of a kind jewellery designer who works for a noble cause

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Where Your Ramadan Nights Glow

La Cigale Hotel proudly continues its tradition of the La Cigale Ramadan Tent

Children's wear brand Hanna Andersson lets kids be kids

A Maserati Experience

Qh Chef For A Day Challenge: Sherif Sabry

The Torch GM Sherif Sabry serves up a delectable menu at Panorama restaurant

Digel offers athleisure in summerready stripes and geometrics

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Ramadan Flavours At The Westin’s Arabian Food Bazaar

94 QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 12 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group.

The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers.

All rights reserved 2017, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements.

QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QAR 10. Bulk subscriptions are available.

Printed by

Gulf Publishing & Printing Company W.L.L.

The Adventure Chronicles Seeing Seven Wonders In Two Years QH Travel Writer Francesca Cruz goes on a quest for seven modern wonders - and love

96

Dish On Qatar: Reflect, Relish, Rejoice

Experiencing Ramadan as an expat

FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear Friends, Ramadan Kareem!

This Holy Month, believers all over the world are engaged in one of the Five Pillars of Islam – fasting – in order to feel more keenly the plight of those who are not as fortunate as ourselves in their living conditions.

In order that the meaning and significance of Ramadan be understood more fully by those who reside in and visit Qatar, QH offers several articles that aim to educate and inform readers on those religious activities, as well as traditions and customs, that are being observed this month.

Ramadan is also a time for family and friends to gather and spend time together, and in this issue you will find a list of top destinations that provide delicious family- and group-oriented Iftar and Souhour offerings in Ramadan tents and other comfortable and appealing surroundings.

We have our other sections as usual, including the fashion spreads featuring clothes suitable for summer; a travel article that takes you to the seven wonders of the modern world; and and interview with Debaj’s brand ambassador on bringing a modern take on abayas to the world fashion stage.

Allow me to draw your attention to the Doha at a Glance section, which we’ve been carrying over the past several issues. It is a roundup of interesting news on the latest business and cultural events in the country, and a must-read for those who want the latest on sports, dining, products, and matters that impact the economic and cultural life of Qatar.

Another interesting article we have is about the first underwater archaeology study to be conducted in Qatar. This research will delve into the secrets of Qatar’s past that are buried under the waves of the Gulf. We expect to know more about our country’s history at the conclusion of the five-year project that begin this year.

This Ramadan and always, from myself and the QH staff, our sincerest wishes for positivity and wellbeing as we work together for a strong and vibrant community and country.

Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Chairman

Mr. Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Editor-In-Chief

Mr. Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal

Executive Editor Luciana Cunha Franca

Copy Editor

Jennifer Ortuoste

Editorial Coordinator

Art Director / Production Manager

Hairiya Santos

John Lee

Sales & Marketing Manager

Social Media Associate

Luciana Cunha Franca

Photographer Jessie Palanca

Carmela Yao

Office Administrator Carmela Yao

Web Coordinator Imran Khan

Distribution Assistant Jaya Prasad Gautam

Contributors

Luciana Cunha Franca, Jenny Ortuoste, Lynsey Riach, Francesca Cruz, Dr. Steffen Sommer, Carmela Yao, Faaiza Feroz, Hairiya Santos, Viva Press, Manu Breu, Haitham Khalid, Daniel Matallana, Farah Ahmed

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Experience a luxurious weekend getaway at InterContinental® Doha Hotel & Residences.

This month, QH is giving away a one-night weekend stay in one of the hotel’s lavish, newly-opened Club Rooms. Pamper yourself with a relaxing 30-minute express facial, body scrub, or reflexology session at Spa InterContinental, and tempt your palate with a sumptuous buffet dinner for two at Coral. To participate, head over to the Qatar Happening Facebook page. The winner will be selected on June 10.

E

xperience world-class facilities paired with unparalleled service at the iconic InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences.

Located on Doha's longest private beach, the hotel features 375 luxurious guest rooms and suites, 94 upscale residences, eight award-winning restaurants, the exclusive Spa InterContinental, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, and outdoor pool at The Bay Club.

Each guest room is tastefully furnished to showcase the finest modern interiors uniquely blended with an Arabesque style, and is well-equipped with advanced, modern amenities. Guests staying in one of the new Club Rooms or Suites will also have access to the exclusive Club InterContinental, where one can enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, all-day refreshment, and evening cocktails amidst stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Treat yourself to a sensational culinary journey in one of the award-winning restaurants, including the world's largest Belgian Café, a taste of Greek-Mediterranean cuisine at Mykonos, TexMex specialties at Paloma, themed nights and extravagant brunches at Coral with various flavourful shisha offerings, signature beverages and fusions at La Vue Wine & Cigar Bar, a swim-up bar at Pool Terrace, and fresh pastries and light treats at the Tea Lounge -- all while overlooking the best panoramic views of Doha's stunning skyline.

After an enjoyable day at the beach, let our team of professional spa therapists pamper you at the worldclass Spa InterContinental, featuring 16 treatment rooms and suites, private indoor pool, healthy juice bar, relaxation room, jacuzzi, and sauna. Each

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wellness and beauty treatment is meticulously tailored using only the finest European products such as Natura Bissé, Baija Paris, Intraceuticals, as well as Mani:Pedi:Cure Studios by Bastien-Gonzalez. n Website: doha.intercontinental.com.

Dining reservations and enquiries: +974 4484 4919 Room reservations and enquiries: +974 4484 4034 Spa reservations and enquiries: +974 4484 4060

ENTERTAINMENT

SALMA HAYEK New film tackles themes close to her heart Words by Jan Janssen Interview and images courtesy of Viva Press

The popular actress portrays a masseuse in her latest movie Beatriz at Dinner, where she essays a comedic role that spins an interesting yarn while at the same time confronting social and political issues that resonate in real life. She also opens up on what’s life like at home with her family and animals.

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P

ark City, Utah - Anyone who has met Salma Hayek will doubtless be happy for whatever success she has enjoyed in life since she is one of the most pleasant, upbeat, and good-natured individuals you will ever meet. (Not to mention her disarming neon smile and fabulous figure!)

But it was much more than beauty and talent that earned Hayek her place in the film world. She needed every ounce of her prodigious sense of determination to gain acceptance in an industry that had very few parts for Hispanics, let alone someone with a thick Mexican accent.

At the age of 20, she abandoned her comfortable life as a soap opera star in her native Mexico and moved to L.A. in the hope that she could one day become a Hollywood movie star. That gamble paid off, and films like From Dusk Till Dawn, Wild Wild West, Frida, and Savages have left an indelible impression on audiences.

The comedy follows Hayek's holistic health practitioner and massage therapist character who attends a wealthy client's dinner party only to find herself debating social and political issues with a Trump-like billionaire business mogul played by John Lithgow.

Hayek's new movie, Beatriz At Dinner, directed by Miguel Arteta (Youth in Revolt) earned rave reviews upon its premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival and critics were almost unanimous in their praise for her performance.

"I couldn't believe my luck when this project came to me and of course the timing is unbelievable," Hayek says. "It's rare that you find a movie that says something important about social issues and is also so well-written.

“I also liked the fact that for the first time in my career the director (Miguel Arteta) was going to deliberately film me in bad light and without make-up. It felt liberating not to play a sexy character but a very real woman and great character who speaks her mind."

The film also carries with it a double dose of irony for Hayek. She has voiced her fierce opposition to the real Donald Trump and his policies, especially those regarding Mexican immigration and his proposed border wall. She also happens to be married to a billionaire herself, albeit a kinder, gentler, and more enlightened one in François-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering, the Paris-based luxury goods empire that owns various brands such as Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga.

The 50-year-old Hayek lives mainly in London with Pinault and their 9-year-old daughter Valentina. Hayek is also stepmom to Pinault's three older children from his previous marriage. They also have homes in Paris and L.A. while Salma maintains an animal ranch in the state of Washington.

In addition to Beatrice at Dinner, Hayek will be seen later this year in The Hitman's Bodyguard opposite Ryan Reynolds, Gary Oldman, and Samuel L. Jackson.

QH: Salma, how did you come by this project?

Hayek: The writer Mike White (Nacho Libre, School of Rock) has been talking about doing a project together for years but it never happened. Then two weeks before my birthday he told me that he finally had the right idea, that it was about a masseuse and the story takes place at a dinner party, and he sent me the finished script on my birthday.

Mike had the vision to understand all the undercurrents that we saw during the election campaign last year and he was able to bring out so many important issues.

QH: There's a very key scene in the film involving scuba diving. Had you ever dived before?

Hayek: What's funny is that Mike and I have known each other for a long time and we have so many things in common that he's like my twin brother.

But he didn't know that I'm a diver, and that diving is one of the greatest passions in my life. I've been diving since I was 10 years old and I honestly feel happiest when I'm deep underwater. It's almost dangerous because I love to go as deep as I can and push things to the limit. But every time I come back out of a dive I feel like I'm a different person and I'm super relaxed.

Like me, Beatriz grows up by the water and it's a safe place for her.

QH: You get to speak both in English and in your native Spanish in the film. Was that also interesting for you?

Hayek: It was a great opportunity for me. It was very rewarding to play Beatriz because in speaking in both languages you get to see how one's personality changes with each language.

That's because each language expresses so much about its specific culture and it connects you to your place of origin and that world which shaped you. Your

language is very important in expressing your individuality and way of looking at the world.

QH: So you and Beatrix express different elements of who you are when you speak in English?

Hayek: There's a very different vibration than when she speaks in English which is her adopted language.

I understand that very deeply. When Beatriz speaks Spanish you feel the sense of nostalgia she feels for her country and home town in Mexico. When you move away from your place of origin something inside you dies. I still have deep memories of Coatzacoalcos (Mexico) where I grew up and my life in Mexico and I often think about that time.

QH: You moved to Paris several years ago and now you live mainly in London. Do you ever feel out of place in Europe?

Hayek: No, I love being in London. We also often spend our weekends in France and I enjoy French culture because it's very Latin and Catholic and I identify with that kind of spirit. I love the way the French take their time to enjoy long lunches and often organise beautiful dinners which are social occasions and part of their lifestyle.

The French appreciate good food and they regard mealtime as an occasion to think, talk, and take great pleasure in such occasions. They never just grab a cup of coffee and rush off. France is a Latin country like Mexico in that way. You always find time to eat together, share a bottle of wine, and have Sunday lunches with the in-laws. There's the same joy of living.

QH: You've spoken often about devoted you are to raising your daughter Valentina.

How does this affect your decisions with respect to your acting career?

Hayek: It's important to me to stay active in films and I've spent a lot of time producing my own projects over the last few years and now I'm taking a break from that. I worked on The Prophet for three years and during that time I never saw my friends.

But even when I was at my busiest, I never stayed away from Valentina or my house for more than two weeks even though she saw how busy I was and how often I was talking on the phone.

Hayek: I always felt that I had good maternal instincts. With Valentina, I have to be careful not to be overly attentive and give her some time to be on her own because I always feel this need to be with her.

But I think I have learnt a lot from raising Valentina and being a a very conscientious mother. Being able to devote yourself to others and experience that sense of responsibility also allows you to grow as an individual because you are not so focused on your own needs.

QH: Do you find that Valentina is taking on some of your own characteristics?

Hayek: I don't find that Valentina and I are that similar in terms of our personalities. She shares a lot with other members of my family who are more confident and light-hearted. For example, I often get stage-fright when I'm in front of the cameras. But she loves being on camera. It doesn't scare her at all!

QH: You also maintain a ranch where you look after many animals?

Hayek: I have nine dogs, alpacas, rabbits, chickens, horses, and many other animals on the ranch. It's another expression of my maternal instincts! I love being able to rescue animals and give them a safe place.

Together with my husband, we are slaves to Valentina's school schedule, so I am only willing to work on a movie if it shoots in the summer or at Christmas or in London. It would be too stressful otherwise and I don't want to disrupt my family life or Valentina's schooling. I love being able to hold her hand and take her to school in the morning and then cooking dinner at home.

But I have promised my husband that I will stop adopting any more dogs which I'm always finding abandoned on the street.

QH: You are not only mother to your daughter Valentina, but you are also stepmother to your husband François's three children, Augustin, Mathilde, and François.

How have you adapted to being a mother?

Hayek: Francois has taught me a lot when it comes to appreciating fashion. In my case, choosing a look is simple and complicated. I have many choices, but they don't always suit my body type. So that makes it a bit simpler because I just wear what fits! n

QH: During your time with your husband, who owns so many major designer labels, has he influence you in terms of your fashion choices?

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VIRGIN RECOMMENDS

QH BRINGS YOU THE TOP STAFF PICKS FROM THE MEGASTORE NAME OF STAFF: JUVY FLORES STORE SECTION: BOOKS TIME AT VIRGIN: EIGHT YEARS

Best Part of My Job: “It makes me proud to be a part of a company that prioritizes employees’ career and personal growth. During my years of stay here, they have always treated us as part of the family and have given us equal opportunity to learn and explore. With them I have successfully improved myself and learned a lot of things – professionally, with emphasis on customer service - and I have gained life-long friends.”

PLANT-BASED COOKBOOK

By Trish Sebben-Krupka This all-inclusive cookbook contains 200 hearty vegetarian and vegan recipes, from basics such as stocks and sauces to appetizers, meatless mains, bakes and casseroles, grains and pasta, tofu, tempeh and seitan, desserts, and more, plus everything you need to know to transition easily to a plant-based diet.

Retail Price: QAR 105

MOORISH: FLAVOURS FROM MECCA TO MARRAKECH

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FLAVOURS OF THE MIDDLE EAST

By Ghillie Basan This exciting new book chronicles the essential dishes that you would encounter should you travel these ancient lands—they are the recipes that have truly stood the test of time.

With feature spreads profiling essential ingredients and more than 60 authentic recipes, Flavors of the Middle East makes it easy to prepare an exciting aromatic feast at home.

Retail Price: QAR 121

THE LITTLE BOOK OF POSITIVIY

100 THINGS SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE DO

By Lucy Lane In a world where we're constantly bombarded by work and worry, we all need a little boost to our happiness levels now and then. This book of inspiring quotations and simple, easy-to-follow tips provides you with practical advice on thinking positively and achieving a more balanced attitude to life.

Retail Price: QAR 38

By Nigel Cumberland This book contains some inspiring and practical exercises and a guide to realizing your dreams, from the large and audacious to the small and mundane. It is packed with great ideas for working smart and living well, all carefully chosen to help you achieve any kind of success you can imagine.

Retail Price: QAR 83

By Greg Malouf and Lucy Malouf Moorish is designed to seduce you: to stimulate your imagination, invigorate your senses, and tempt you to try every wonderful flavor. Greg and Lucy Malouf have compiled this collection of mouth-watering recipes inspired by the flavors of North Africa, Spain, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Middle East - regions united by a common thread that winds its way back to Arabia.

Retail Price: QAR 137

Spotlight On Movies It’s an action-crammed, suspense-filled, adventure-packed June for movie fans as spectacles of mayhem and mystery hit the big screen. These adrenalin-pumping hits are sure to please.

WONDER WOMAN

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy Before she was Wonder Woman she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained warrior. When a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, she leaves home to fight a war to end all wars, discovering her full powers and true destiny.

Stars: Gal Gadot, Robin Wright, Chris Pine QH Fun Fact: Kate Beckinsale, Sandra Bullock, Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Jessica Biel, Eva Green, Christina Hendricks, and Kristen Stewart were considered to play the lead role throughout the years.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy This rip-roaring adventure finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar, escape from the Devil's Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea - notably Jack.

At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced. As told to Stars: Johnny Depp, Javier Bardem, Geoffrey Rush, Brenton Thwaites, and Kaya Scodelario

GIFTED Genre: Drama Frank is a single man raising his his spirited young niece Mary, a child prodigy. He is drawn into a custody battle with her mother. Frank's plans for a normal school life for Mary are foiled when the seven-year-old's mathematical abilities come to the attention of Frank's formidable mother Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan) whose plans for her granddaughter threaten to separate Frank and Mary.

Stars: Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace, and Lindsay Duncan QH Fun Fact: After filming ended, Chris Evans and Jenny Slate began a relationship and broke up almost a year later.

QH Fun Fact: The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise is the twelfth highest grossing franchise ever.

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy An ancient princess is awakened from her crypt beneath the desert, bringing with her malevolence grown over millennia and terrors that def y human comprehension.

Stars: Tom Cruise, Sofia Boutella, and Annabelle Wallis QH Fun Fact: This film marks the first collaboration between Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe.

THE MUMMY 14

Genre: Action, Thriller Two brothers, both car thieves, journey to the south of France for new opportunities and wind up in the cross hairs of the local crime boss.

Stars: Scott Eastwood, Ana de Armas, Gaia Weiss, and Freddie Thorp QH Fun Fact: Matthew Goode and Alex Pettyfer were originally cast but they were replaced with Karl Urban and Ben Barnes. Barnes dropped out and was replaced by Sam Claflin. Later, both Urban and Claflin withdrew and were replaced by Scott Eastwood and Freddie Thorp.

OVERDRIVE

ENTERTAINMENT

Directory

Toro Toro Lounge Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Wahm W Doha

Nobu Four Seasons

Let us help you make the most of your weekend with our comprehensive directory of the hottest nightlife spots throughout the city. So grab your friends and head out for a night on the town!

Admiral’s Club The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

The Club The St. Regis Doha

4446-0000

Pearl Lounge Doha Marriott

4429-8888

Beach Bar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

The Jazz Club Oryx Rotana

4402-3333

Qube Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Belgian Café InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Jazz Up Mövenpick Hotel Doha

4429-1111

Rocca The Grand Hyatt

4448-1234

Bohemia Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5555

Lava Lounge InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Shanghai Club Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

Boston's City Center Rotana

4445-8888

La Mer Bistro The Ritz-Carlton

4448-4800

Shehrazad Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Bubbles On Two Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Sky View La Cigale

4428-8888

Champions Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Cigar Lounge Sharq Village & Spa Crystal Lounge W Doha

Dunes The Grand Hyatt Glo Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Habanos The Ritz-Carlton

Liquidity Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4419-6100

4425-6666

Manhattan Radisson Blu

4453-5135

4448-1234

4484-8000

4408-7777

Madison Piano Bar La Cigale

4419-6100

Misturado Crowne Plaza Doha - The Business Park

4015-8888

The Den Shangri-La Hotel Doha

4429-5000

The Irish Harp Sheraton Grand Doha

4485-4444

The Library Radisson Blu

4428-1428

4428-8888

4428-1428

4408-7777

MIX Bar, Lounge and Terrace Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Strata Lounge InterContinental Doha The City

4492-1555

The Library Bar & Cigar Lounge Four Seasons

4494-8888

Noir Lounge & Club Meliá Doha

5596-1414

The Lounge Kempinski Residences & Suites

4405-3325

Orion Radisson Blu

4428-1428

Vintage Lounge The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

4453-5353

Hive InterContinental Doha The City

4015-8888

Oyster Bay The St. Regis Doha

4446-0105

Wahm W Doha

Illusion Marsa Malaz Kempinski

4035-5757

Paloma InterContinental Doha

4484-4444

Z Lounge by Zengo Kempinski Residences & Suites

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4405-3333

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Pearl Suites BILAL

Beautiful fully furnished apartments set in luxurious surroundings.

Options range from a studio up to a 4-bedroom home. The tower also features a beautifully styled pool and BBQ area, a state-of-the-art gym plus a sauna. Our in-house services and maintenance make this the perfect place to live in.

AHMED HASSAN BILAL TRADING & CONTRACTING CO. W.L.L.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

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ARTS & CULTURE

Top Picks

MATHAF: ARAB MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART Project Space 9: Basim Magdy

QATAR MUSEUM GALLERY KATARA Skate Girls of Kabul

Jun. 15 until Sept. 16: Award winning photographer Jessica Fulford-Dobson presents her series of striking portraits, Skate Girls of Kabul. The series tells the extraordinary story of Afghan girls who took up skateboarding thanks to Skateistan, an Afghan charity that provides skate parks as a hook to get children from disadvantaged families back into the educational system. The portraits, viewed by more than 74,000 visitors during its two-week run at London’s Saatchi Gallery, bring to life the free-flowing spirit of these young girls who bring a new perspective and dimension to skateboarding culture.

On-going until Jul. 16: Mathaf’s new Project Space presents “It All Started with a Map and a Picture of Scattered Little Houses”, featuring four films by Basim Magdy made between 2012 and 2016: No Shooting Stars (2016), The Everyday Ritual of Solitude Hatching Monkeys (2014), The Dent (2014), and Time Laughs Back at You Like a Sunken Ship (2012). The lyrical and poetic narratives in the films unveil the exchange between human relationships, time, perception, and memory.

Exploring the transition from analogue to digital, Magdy addresses the reconciliation of tradition and ritual as we move towards futuristic, industrialised tendencies of universal existence.

QATAR MUSEUM GALLERY AL RIWAQ Contemporary Calligraphy – Mehmet Çebi Collection

May 15 until Jun. 17: This exhibition brings together a notable selection of intricate and beautiful calligraphic artworks dating from the 1960s to the present day. It focuses on two traditions, renowned for their glorification of the beauty of Islam through art: the first is an assortment of hilye-i erif (The Noble Hilya), a form of classic calligraphic art, while the second is a collection of tesbih (prayer beads) used for ruminative prayer.

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY IN QATAR, EDUCATION CITY QF Art Trail - (CMUQ) MOHAMMED BIN JASSIM HOUSE, MSHEIREB MUSEUMS “Back to Msheireb: Shared Streets - Shared Stories”

From Apr. 5 until Jun. 27: Organized by University College of London in Qatar, UCLQurates is a yearly student-led initiative which involves the collaboration of UCL Qatar’s MA Museum and Gallery Practice students with a cultural organisation in Qatar. It aims to develop innovative and engaging exhibitions that implement best practices taught in the MA, whilst striving to be relevant to, and actively involve, Qatar’s diverse communities. This year, the students have partnered with Msheireb Properties in curating and organising an exhibition that interprets the vibrancy of Qatar’s old Msheireb district as a centre of commerce and diversity.

Jun. 17: Organized by Qatar Foundation, Art Trail is a new initiative created by QF’s Capital Projects Department that offers guided tours of the artworks located around Education City to the public. Five tours have already been scheduled. There will be one tour every month covering one building at a time. All tours are scheduled to take place on Saturdays. Maximum capacity for each tour is 40 people. See 13 artworks for 1h 30min tour. To register, and for more information, email: qftrail@ qf.org.qa

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ARTS & CULTURE

RAM

DAN

A time for prayer, fasting, and renewal of faith

Words By Faaiza Feroz

Ramadan commemorates the night of power during which God revealed the holy Qur’an to the prophet Muhammad (PBUH). QH learns more about the Holy Month.

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uslims celebrate Ramadan to purify their souls, fine-tune their relationship with God, and observe self-sacrifice. It is observed on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and it commences upon the visual sighting of the last full moon of the year.

Every country has its own customs and traditions, one of which is visiting family and friends during this month. Muslims are keen to break their fast each day with relatives, neighbors and friends.

Here are some social and spiritual aspects of Ramadan: • In Arab countries there are some special traditions only practiced during Ramadan, such as the “night caller” (Al-Misaharaty). This person calls the people in the neighborhood to wake them up two hours before sunrise in order to have their pre-dawn meal (souhour) before the time of fasting begins.

• The lanterns are one of the most captivating traditions that characterize the holy month of Ramadan. People decorate their streets and neighborhoods with lights and lanterns. According to some tales, the tradition began with a caliph named Al-Hakim Bi Amr Al-Lah. He desired for the streets to be illuminated during Ramadan and ordered all

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the mosques to hang lanterns that could be lit by candles.

• When the month of Ramadan commences, Muslims enter a period of discipline and worship: fasting during the day and praying throughout the day and night. Special evening prayers are conducted during which long portions of the Qur’an are recited. These special prayers are known as taraweeh.

• Itikaf is an Islamic practice in which Muslims retreat to a mosque for a certain period of time for worship, particularly in the last ten days of Ramadan.

• It is quite common to observe people distributing water and snacks before the call to prayer to those who are unable to make it for iftar, the evening meal. Almost every city has at least one public iftar for fasting passers-by to break their fast.

People from all walks of life unite to pray to God and to break their fast at sunset. The holiday Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the next lunar month. It is celebrated with magnificent feasts, the wearing of new clothes, and the gifting of money or presents to children. n

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ARTS & CULTURE

BENEATH QATAR’S WAVES: the country’s first underwater archaeology study

As told to Luciana Cunha Franca

Qatar Museums leads a research project on Qatar’s underwater archaeological environment in partnership with Qatar University, York University, and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Activities, and Tourism in Italy

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nder the patronage of its Chairperson, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar Museums (QM) has signed agreements with Qatar University (QU); York University, a highly established organisation in the field of marine research; and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and Tourism in Italy.

A first for Qatari research The agreements will allow the organisations to collaborate in a comprehensive study on Qatar’s marine features and underwater archeology.

QM will lead a research project with a team of local and international marine archeology experts.

The first of its kind in the region, the research will explore the archeological characteristics of Qatar’s underwater environment.

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In addition to the team of specialised experts, QM will invite relevant community members such as Qatari divers to participate in and benefit from this significant social and scientific project. There will also be several workshops and training programmes organised in collaboration with local schools and universities.

This research project, which is due to start in the middle of this year, will run for almost five years.

Through this project, QM aims to explore Qatar’s underwater environment to help reveal and understand how its marine history has contributed to the country’s social and economic behaviours.

QM expects that this study will make new discoveries that will reveal many hidden secrets from the bottom of the sea, which was the region’s first source of income and a major route for commercial vessels.

Diving into the past Describing the importance of this project, Mansour bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, Chief Executive Officer and Special Advisor to H.E. the Chairperson, Qatar Museums, said: “This project perfectly reflects the leading role that QM is playing in protecting and promoting Qatar’s heritage.”

Al Mahmoud highlighted the uniqueness of this project, which is looking at underwater archeological sites instead of the usual on-land sites. He also said that QM continues to support collaboration with

high caliber institutions, such as York University and Qatar University, to help encourage knowledge transfer.

Describing the benefits of the project, Al Mahmoud added: “This study will help provide information and images of Qatar’s underwater ecosystem. It will build capabilities for those who are interested in working in the underwater archeological field, as it will contribute to world-class educational programmes.

“The research will be able to shed light on Qatar and the region’s history, and on the habits and traditions of our ancestors. This partnership brings QM closer to its goal of honouring the traditions of the past while embracing the future.”

Exploring Qatar’s culture and its love for the sea Dr Hassan bin Rashid Al Derham, President of Qatar University, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Qatar Museums and York University for this important initiative that seeks to preserve a significant part of the country’s heritage, which will ultimately connect the future generations with the history of their country.

“Our experts at Qatar University, with their scientific capabilities and deep knowledge of Qatar’s history and heritage, are able to support this unique project to comprehensively research Qatar’s underwater archeology. The project will also enable us to find out more on Qatar’s marine environment, exploring an important aspect of the lifestyle of our ancestors, especially their connection to the sea, which they loved so much.”

Al Derham added: “Over the years, our QU Research Vessel ‘Janan’ has played an important role in conducting studies on the marine environment in Qatar. We expect this five-year project to be of great value to researchers and students. It will also be a strong addition to Qatar’s heritage.”

Expected outcomes and benefits The final report of this research study will include recordings on all the underwater archeological sites in Qatar, with their locations, access limits, and benefits. This will help build a foundation for studies on Qatar’s marine history and underwater archeology.

The findings of this study will also lead to establishing a digital archive on underwater cultural heritage sites, by carefully mapping the sites using the most advanced remote sensor technology. This will help establish a digital library on underwater heritage sites and will support the development of marine heritage tourism.

Besides the heritage aspect, the study will also provide information related to the nature of the current marine life in Qatar’s sea. This includes the distribution of coral reefs, identifying the most

About Qatar Museums Qatar Museums connects the museums, cultural institutions and heritage sites in Qatar and creates the conditions for them to thrive and flourish. It centralises resources and provides a comprehensive organisation for the development of museums and cultural projects, with a long term ambition of creating a strong and sustainable cultural infrastructure for Qatar.

Since its foundation in 2005, QM has overseen the development of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, and the Al Zubarah World Heritage Site Visitor Centre.

important fish and shells, as well as detecting the breeding and fishing seasons.

QM works hard to support its heritage pillar by cooperating with international experts, hosting international conferences, leading international partnerships and much more. This brings QM closer to its aim of preserving Qatar’s history and heritage and connecting today’s young generation with their great ancestors. n

QM also manages the QM Gallery at Katara Cultural Village, the ALRIWAQ DOHA Exhibition Space and the Fire Station: Artists in Residence.

Future projects include the launch of the highly anticipated National Museum of Qatar and the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum.

About Qatar University Qatar University is one of the leading institutions of academic and research excellence in the GCC region. It provides high quality undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare competent graduates primed to shape the future of Qatar.

Website: www.qu.edu.qa

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ARTS & CULTURE

WORKS OF QATARI ARTISTS ADORN NEW HOTEL

As told to Luciana Cunha Franca Pictures by Jessie Palanca

Local artistic talents photographer Khalid Al Muslmani and visual artist Fatma Abdullah Al Khalfani display their inspirational artwork on the interior of the recently opened Fraser Suites West Bay Hotel.

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raser Suites West Bay has announced its partnership with renowned local artists to celebrate the rich history and culture of the host country, Qatar, throughout the hotel.

Merging contemporary Italian designs along with elements derived from local tradition, the property features the artwork of photographer Khalid Al Muslmani and visual artist Fatma Abdullah Al Khalfani. Their art merges elements of the local tradition along with contemporary designs.

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Khalid Al Muslmani’s photographs of Qatar throughout its rich history grace the rooms and common spaces of the property. His passion for photography started in 1999 when he began documenting special moments with friends and family. His passion evolved to featuring the beauty of the traditional architecture of Qatar in an effort to document its progression.

The artist has already staged two exhibitions in Doha. The exhibitions attracted the attention of Nasser Al Rabban from Al Rabban Holding Company, the developers of the building, and Guus Bakker from Frasers Hospitality who manage the property.

They came up with the fantastic idea of having Qatari art on their building’s walls.

I asked Khalid if he has a favorite picture. With pride and a smile on his face, he pointed at a picture of a souq.

When I asked about taking his art out of Qatar and showing the world, he says it hasn’t happened yet but should an opportunity arise it is something that he would appreciate.

Visual artist Fatma Abdullah Al Khalfani created a combination of contemporary calligraphy and wall

graffiti artworks that are displayed at The Social restaurant. Fatma is an architect passionate about visual arts including contemporary calligraphy, painting, and pencil drawing.

Describing her source of inspiration, she says: “Discovering the world around you and within you is the utmost creativeness of all.”

Fatma added: “I am in love with Arabic art pieces whether writings, poems, paintings, sculptures, carvings, or calligraphy. I am trying to take those art pieces and embrace them within my selfeffacing artworks.”

Sushil Sharma, General Manager of Fraser Suites West Bay – Doha, commented: “Nestled in the heart of the capital of Qatar, Fraser Suites West Bay – Doha is proud to support local culture and heritage by featuring the artwork of eminent local talents.

“Our aim is to always provide our guests with an authentic experience that they can’t find anywhere else in the country.”

If you want to capture the feeling of being within an art gallery while enjoying five-star accommodations and service, we definitely recommend a visit to the new Fraser Suites West Bay and get to know more about this beautiful country’s culture and artists. n

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ARTS & CULTURE

PRESERVING TO THE PAST SHARE WITH THE FUTURE As told to Luciana Cunha Franca

Msheireb Museums showcase a new exhibition in collaboration with UCL Qatar’s Masters Students titled ‘Back to Msheireb: Shared Streets - Shared Stories’

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n exhibition that interprets the vibrancy of Qatar’s historic Msheireb district as a center of commerce opened last April 4 at Msheireb Museums in Msheireb, Downtown Doha.

Entitled “Back to Msheireb: Shared Streets - Shared Stories”, the exhibition is organised by students of UCL Qatar as part of their yearly UCL Qurates initiative of the Masters in Museum and Gallery Practice programme.

The exhibition will remain open until July 27 this year at Mohammed Bin Jassim House in Msheireb Museums.

Students put theory into practice According to Dr Sam Evans, director of UCL Qatar, “This student-led project is a crucial, assessed component of the master’s programme, which seeks

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to bridge the gap between museum theory and practice.

“The project affords our students – who are undergoing rigorous graduate training to further professionalise or to enter the museum profession, in Qatar or abroad – the unique opportunity to implement knowledge acquired on the programme, working collaboratively with a museum.

“The staff’s dedication to the project, and their commitment to student learning and to their continuous professional development, has been pivotal in making the project a mutually rewarding and successful experience," he said.

Over the last few months, this year’s group of students have had the opportunity to explore and conduct curatorial research around Msheireb Museums’ collection of objects and oral history archives, curating a temporary exhibition that complements the scope of the permanent galleries in the Mohammed Bin Jassim House.

History and heritage in four houses Located within the Heritage Quarter, a historic area of Msheireb Downtown Doha, Mohammed Bin Jassim House is one of four heritage houses that has been restored to create a trusted cultural destination that enriches the community. Rooted in history, these buildings and gallery spaces allow the community to engage with in the significant aspects

of Qatar’s past and memories of life before the country’s rapid economic development.

Mr. Hafiz Ali, director of Msheireb Museums, said: “We are delighted to include such a carefully curated exhibition which documents the city’s history and progression and allows us to preserve and share these stories with the community.

“Msheireb Museums are honored to provide a platform that nurtures our future leaders’ development, enhances the cultural scene of our city, and enables people to learn more about Qatar’s rich heritage.”

About UCL Qatar

The increase in economic wealth and employment opportunities in Qatar led to a growth in foreign populations from countries such as India, Pakistan, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and the Philippines from the 1970s. Msheireb became the popular destination for shopping, and a hub for small local community between the 1980s and 2000s – long before the wider “mall culture” spread throughout the country – and allowed the meeting of diverse cultures, tastes, languages, and traditions.

Bringing back the past “Back to Msheireb” presents a selection of found objects and oral histories of personal memories of this former commercial neighborhood through an installation of pop-up stores inspired by the eclectic and often quirky character of this part of Doha.

Dr. Serena Iervolino, Programme Coordinator at UCL Qatar, said, "I am delighted to have worked in partnership with Msheireb Museums on this year’s UCL Qurates initiative.

“Together with the other Museum Studies faculty, Dr Catharina Hendrick, I have had the pleasure of seeing a particularly skillful group of students blossoming throughout the project. Working in a mature and collaborative manner, the students have developed and delivered an exhibition of professional standards.

“Today I am proud to acknowledge and celebrate with colleagues their significant team achievement.”

University College London (UCL), in partnership with Qatar Foundation, created UCL Qatar, a center of excellence for the study of cultural heritage. UCL Qatar welcomed its first intake of students in August 2012 and has since enrolled more than 230 students from over 40 countries.

Drawing upon the renowned expertise of the UCL Institute of Archaeology, London, leading academic scholars, teachers, and scientists implement our unique curriculum and research.

About Msheireb Museums Msheireb Museums are a new cultural landmark in the heart of Downtown Doha. The four heritage houses encapsulate the hopes, dreams, and achievements of Qatari generations that laid the foundation for today’s modern state.

Radwani House charts the effects of oil on Qatari society, demonstrating how quickly life improved within the space of a few generations.

Company House exhibits the history of modern Qatar by demonstrating the struggles of past generations to create today’s thriving society.

Al Jalmood House, the Museum of Human Exploitation, creates an evocative journey through the emotive history of human trafficking around the world, through to exploitation in the modern world.

Mohammed bin Jassim House is the former residence of the founder of Qatar, used to demonstrate the history of the Msheireb area and its significant role in Doha’s growth.

Since the inception of UCL Qatar in 2012, the students of Masters in Museum and Gallery Practice programme have collaborated with Qatari cultural institutions to create and develop temporary creative exhibitions. n

The heritage houses are conveniently located to provide accessibility to a national heritage that has previously been unaddressed.

Msheireb Museums support the Qatar Vision 2030 by conserving the nation’s human development story to inspire the generations of now and tomorrow.

Msheireb Properties Msheireb Properties is a real estate development company and a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation. The company was established as a commercial venture to support the Foundation’s aims, as well as the goals of Qatar’s 2030 Vision.

Msheireb Properties’ mission is to change the way people think about urban living and improve their overall quality of life, through innovations that encourage social interaction, respect for culture and greater care for the environment.

With its signature project, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Msheireb Properties employs a new approach to urban planning, combining traditional methods and modern technology aimed at safeguarding both the environment and the cultural identity of Qatar, all the while developing a blueprint for sustainable urban regeneration, and sharing knowledge and experience with the industry.

Msheireb Properties received ISO certification from the British Standards Institution for Quality (ISO 9001:2008), Environmental Performance (ISO 14001:2004), Occupational Health and Safety (BS OHSAS 18001:2007), and Risk Management Standard (ISO 31000:2009).

For museum hours and more information: Website: www.uclqurates.squarespace.com Facebook: @UCLQurates Hashtags: #UCLQurates and #BacktoMsheireb

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COMMUNITY

Top Picks

AL SHAQAB, AL RAYYAN Ramadan Camp

May 27 - June 22: Al Shaqab, the world-class equestrian facility in Qatar, will offer its Ramadan Camp for the fourth year, giving children ages 3 to 17 the opportunity to participate in various equine-related activities. The camp, organized by Al Shaqab’s Equine Education Department, includes four week-long sessions running from May 27 to June 22, 2017. Register online at https://next. qf.org.qa/events/ramadan-camp/.

KATARA PARKING AREA 04 Meerat Ramadan at Katara

May 11 - June 27: During this Holy Month of Ramadan, the time for month-long fasting, the Cultural Village Foundation offers a venue to purchase food supplies at a low cost. Various food companies are participating, with 35 shops scheduled to sell various food items to the public.

KATARA MASJID Quran Memorization Session

May 28 - June 15: Stemming from its keenness to raise the young generation and strengthen their bond with their Islamic identity and principles of their true religion, the Cultural Village FoundationKatara announces the organization of its 6th consecutive edition of the Quran Memorization Sessions, during the holy month of Ramadan for children born between 2003 and 2010.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA 119th Philippine Independence Day Celebration ASPIRE DOME Ramadan Sports Festival 2017

May 30 - June 30: Aspire Zone Foundation organizes various amateur competitions for all community members to promote a healthy lifestyle during the holy month of Ramadan. Competitions will be held from 9:30 p.m. until midnight.

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June 26-28: The Filipino community in Qatar celebrates the 119th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence with three days of fun activities showcasing the best of the Philippines.

This event is organized by UFOQ, Kulinarya Qatar, and the Philippine Embassy.

COMMUNITY

MUM in DOHA: Losing weight after having a baby Words by Lynsey Riach Photos by Jessie Palanca

I feel it’s time to bring my body back so I’ve been reminding myself of that old analogy that because it took nine months to put the baby weight on, therefore it will take nine months to get it off. And as friends and family keep reminding me, I have a powerful fat burning tool at my disposal – breastfeeding. Or do I? Eat mindfully As a breastfeeding mother twice over, I know that although nursing burns a stack of calories (approximately 850 per day), it also leaves a busy mama ravenous!

I’ve fallen into the trap of eating extra cake because, well, I can, but what if I didn’t finish that extra slice of red velvet? For me, my motivation depends greatly on my scale of tiredness and if it’s off the chart then I’ll probably swerve away from the fresh fruit salad and reach for a baked-to-perfection cinnamon swirl.

And we can thank science for this. Hungry and sleep-deprived, we tend to satisfy our cravings with simple carbohydrates to make up for the lack of sleep. Basically, we end up reaching for the cookies.

Fit in exercise I’ve found that being a busy Mum to two under two often leaves me very little time to look after myself so building some motivation to hit it hard in the gym

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isn’t really that appealing to me right now (pass the cookies), but surely some time out of motherhood to gain some much-needed headspace and release those endorphins may actually give me added energy and build stamina?

Let’s be honest, we mothers need to be fit to deal with the demands of young children, not forgetting the fact we lift them up copious times a day (did you say mom arms?!).

Instead, I’ve been trying to work in exercise when I can, so I try to walk wherever I can. I do yoga with my baby on my mat and I’ll lift him for some body weight exercises such as squats. Carrying around a six-kilogram baby all day sure has its body benefits!

Love your body But with all this currently going on, I feel conflicted with how we view mothers’ bodies today. There just seems to be so much pressure (thank you, social media) for new mums to bounce back before they’re even discharged from hospital.

And as this is my second baby, I have crazy comparisons going on from what I looked like and weighed after the birth of my first boy to drive myself completely nuts with. So why do we paint ourselves as strong women able to work, play, housekeep, and mother, but yet we find flaws in our own stretch-marked skin? You would think by now we could thank our bodies and be amazed at what they can achieve (birth, baby and beyond).

Be kind to yourself So when it comes to losing the baby weight, I stand firm on this point - don’t pressure yourself! Yes, you want to look and feel good, but it’s incredibly important that you do take care of yourself in order to take care of your baby, and that often means taking it slow on any kind of diet and exercise regime.

And if you’re currently caring for a baby you’ll know that in the grand scheme of things, it’s just not up there on your list of priorities. The concern for me has come to mind that I don’t want to “let myself go” or “never lose the baby weight” so I suppose my goal to is just to keep a close eye on my weight, what I eat, and how I feel.

I just don’t let it get too out of whack but on those tired days, I’ll listen to my body if it wants those cookies!

Focus on what’s important These beautiful babes of ours are little for such a short amount of time. Reward yourself, don’t push yourself, and remember to be kind to you. You’ve achieved a magnificent feat in growing, delivering, feeding, and caring for a baby.

Until next time – thank your body for all it has done for you! n

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COMMUNITY

AN EXPAT SHARES HER EXPERIENCE OF RAMADAN Words by Luciana Cunha Franca

We all know that Ramadan is a holy month - a time to reflect, give, and pray. But how many of us coming from different countries and cultures have experienced Ramadan in Qatar in a proper way?

Here’s how one expat saw the beauty and benefit in the practice.

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“I fasted for Ramadan during my first year in Qatar while I was waiting to start a new job. Being new to Qatar, I couldn’t understand when people said that Ramadan would slow down the recruitment process.

I came to know Brooke Reid, an Australian citizen who has lived in Qatar for over ten years. Here’s her Ramadan story.

“It was only after my first few days of fasting that I really understood how the brain slows down.

That can happen when your body goes without nourishment and water throughout the day!

“It’s my tenth Ramadan living in Doha. I have fasted for seven of them, from 2008 to 2014. I’m from Australia, and after working in sport and advertising I now run my own experiential marketing and events agency called taf3eel.

“I think I became more comfortable with fasting each year, by listening to my body and understanding how much water to drink after iftar, etc., in order to cope better. I probably drink more water during Ramadan than any other time of year as I realise

have lived in Qatar for over seven years and at some point have seen some non-Muslim expats go though the holy experience of Ramadan with an open heart and the willingness to learn about a month dedicated entirely to God.

how much difference it makes in the ability of my body to get through each day.

“I’d recommend that people take part in the fasting tradition during Ramadan, but only if they’ve made a conscious decision to embrace the practice for all that it is, not just because others around them are doing it.

“For me, not eating and drinking is only a part of the fast. As non-Muslims we are not obliged to fast but embracing the non-eating element means understanding that fasting also relates to being more conscious of the words that leave your mouth as well. In the years that I fasted I also made a concerted effort not to swear, which included having a swear jar which was subsequently donated to charity during Eid. “The concept of Ramadan for me heavily involves a sense of community and I make a point of catching up with friends and neighbours, probably more than I would during the rest of the year. Previously I lived in a neighbourhood with lots of Qataris and my housemates and I were delighted when our neighbours would appear at our gate with different local dishes for us to break our fast with each day. It became more than just a fast and more of a shared experience.

“During the years I fasted I would also attend Al Fanar mosque most Fridays for midday (duhur) prayer. It’s an English-speaking mosque so what I would consider the equivalent to any sermon is

delivered in English. Those Fridays were really useful for gaining a better understanding of the religious side of Ramadan but it also felt quite lovely being part of the group of women who attend each week.

Women from a wide range of countries attend Al Fanar and it gives you a good idea of the diversity of Muslims living here in Qatar.

“I haven’t fasted for the past few years due to a combination of factors like travelling which usually exempts people. I’ve also had to work outside during the day and as a non-Muslim I have the ability to opt out when I don’t want to fast. That said, while I’m not fasting I still try to engage in the other elements of Ramadan, gathering with friends and colleagues in that shared sense of community. n

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COMMUNITY

TEACHING LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

AT

DOHA COLLEGE

Words by Dr Steffen Sommer, Principal, Doha College

Doha College has been educating children and young people in Qatar since 1980 in a landscape of continually evolving multi-culturalism.

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atar is our home, and, ever appreciative of the values of our host country, we ensure we educate our students on Qatari history, culture, religion, and language.

Learning Arabic is key Arabic is taught to all our children starting from the Early Years stage, and is a permanent feature that permeates school life.

Our Secondary students have a choice to take Arabic as a language throughout their education from Year 7 upwards. Native Arabic speakers can also choose advanced Arabic classes to supplement their existing skills. Advanced Arabic speakers are invited to take part in Enhanced Curriculum Activities, and their contribution to the school through their superior knowledge of Arabic is highly valued by their peers.

Our Modern Foreign Language Department regularly hosts events that emphasise the power of multilingualism. One recent such celebration of the Arabic culture was the parents’ breakfast organized by the Arabic primary teachers on both campuses, where children recited poems, sang songs, and explained about the traditional Arabic food they served – all in Arabic – to a very impressed audience.

Studying Qatari culture and tradition Also, all children are taught either Qatar History or Islamic Studies. Prayer areas are offered in the Primary and Secondary School, and they are made much use of, particularly during Ramadan.

Each class in Primary has its own Qatar corner, regularly updated with children’s work on the latest topics related to Qatar, and adorned with beautiful Islamic patterns and images of Qatari nature and architecture.

We are proud to list many distinguished Qataris amongst our alumni and current students, including H.H. The Emir. Current Year 13 student Hamad Al Thani, great-great-grandson of Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, founder of the State of Qatar, recently gave a presentation to primary children; perfectly pitched to that particular audience, Hamad’s interactive speech revealed fascinating facts about the Qatari culture and tradition, as well as visions for the future.

Preparing the school for Ramadan In preparation for this year’s Ramadan, Year 9 children created a presentation about this special time and toured around classes in the Secondary school talking to students about the importance of the holy month, its meaning, and how it is practiced, as well as answering other students’ questions.

A similar presentation was offered to staff by advanced Arabic speakers from the Year 10 Arabic class, but this was not the first time staff have had the opportunity to enjoy a deeper understanding of Qatar’s culture and tradition. The Staff Association organises regular activities that bring our staff members ever deeper into the community; in recent months, they went on guided tours of the State Grand Mosque and the Al Rayyan Mosque.

At this time of reflection, spiritual renewal, and peace, we wish you all health, happiness, and serenity. Ramadan Kareem! n

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FASHION & LUXURY

FASHION INSIDER The look of modest elegance

Interview by Hairiya Santos

The 11th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition showcased the best local designers and brands, among them Debaj, a luxury brand specializing in designer Islamic clothing pieces. QH talks to Debaj brand ambassador Elisabete Reis about next-level abaya design.

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lisabete Reis, a Portugese national who moved to Qatar in 2006, is a professional image, etiquette, and protocol consultant and the founder of Glam Your Image, a company that provides personality development training.

Her career and professional growth has been honed through the years of exposure to and training in fashion and beauty, as well as through her education and travels abroad. She attended the Academy of Image Mastery in Singapore and London Image Institute in the UK. She is also a member of the Association of Image Consultants International in the U.S QH: What made you believe so much in Debaj to be its brand ambassador?

ER: The first thing that came to mind after receiving the invitation to represent Debaj was “Abayas, like, me in abayas?” I was not really into abayas before.

But when I saw the pieces, in an instant, I was, like, okay, sold!

Debaj pieces are exquisite, they are different.

They’re traditional yet there’s a touch of modern side, they have a certain vibe. There’s something that differentiates them from every other abaya I’ve seen.

It’s the cuts, the embroidery, the handwork, the fabric, the way themes connect, the story of every piece. I was instantly captivated. From then, I decided to embrace the brand.

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Elisabete Reis

QH: How does the brand reflect you, and vice versa?

ER: Aside from representing the brand, I also relate to it, to every design it has come out with. I like to wear the pieces, feel it, and have fun. It’s a genuine trust between me and the brand. Really, I only represent a brand if I feel it, if I believe in it.

In the exhibition, every day I wore a piece which was different from the previous. Generally, it shows that there are a lot if pieces in the collection that are in-sync with my personality. I can wear almost everything in the collection. I get involved with the design team, and most of the time, I tell them, envision a piece and design it as if they are designing for me. That is why I like everything.

QH: Please share some of your insights about Muslim clothing.

ER: I believe that my relationship with Debaj, my work, and my representation of the brand has given the world a positive image of abayas. I am European, but I see the beauty of Muslim clothing. When I post on my social media account, a lot of my followers, even the international ones, message me and say that the Debaj pieces I wear are so beautiful.

Yes, the clothes cover from the head to the toes, yet it’s not only for Muslims, it is actually for everyone.

Muslim clothing has certain rules, but with the creative minds of designers, amazing pieces are produced. You don’t need to show some skin to look fashionable. Even being covered can be trendy and stylish.

QH: How do you think Debaj is faring in the international fashion scene?

ER: We’ve been going international for quite some time. We did a number of fantastic fashion shows in Paris. We did one in New York and in Tokyo. We also did a magnificent photo shoot in Florence and London.

What is amazing is that we bring the brand out there, and the reception is, “Wow!” You see a great many people who love the collection. They are in awe of the beautiful and elegant clothing we make. They can’t believe that this magnificent collection is what people wear here in the Middle East.

It warms our heart to see the positive reaction of people from all over. At the New York fashion show, two American ladies wanted to buy the runway items right there and then. People now realize that covering up doesn’t mean you are not beautiful. Beauty is not measured by how much skin you show.

QH: What’s your opinion on classic versus modern fashion?

ER: I am a huge fan of the classic and timeless pieces. I am pretty much into simple designs. Not that I don’t appreciate the modern ones, but I believe you can never go wrong with classic fashion. I do have trendy pieces, but I usually go for something I can wear over and over again. Debaj has that classic yet chic style.

QH: How do you channel your creativity in fashion without compromising traditions?

ER: By being genuine and truthful to myself. What you see in my social media accounts is what I genuinely believe in. I showcase my creative side through the clothes I wear, and I love wearing beautiful pieces which define me. I live in Qatar and I respect and adhere to the rules of the country, especially on clothing.

QH: Tell us about the collection you are featuring in this edition of Heya Exhibition.

ER: The latest collection we showcase here, particularly in the fashion show, is a continuation of our New York-inspired Audrey collection. People have asked us for a summer version. So we came up with the ‘50’s and ‘60’s vibe of Audrey Hepburn, and we introduced sheer and lighter fabrics, a lot of chiffon and silk, materials that are good for summer, in a fashionable classic style.

QH: What is next for you and for Debaj?

ER: Debaj will continue to evolve. It is in demand, because we make people feel and look special when wearing our creations. We have luxury pieces - outstanding party wear and casuals - but we also offer classic and comfortable yet chic pieces. We will continue to invest in giving a wide array of quality options to our clients, Muslims and non-Muslims, here in Qatar and in the GCC. Expansion is always in the plan, but we’re doing it one step at a time. For now, we have built up confidently within Qatar.

Founded in 2012, the Debaj Abaya brand signifies luxury and sophistication at its finest.

It combines traditional abaya silhouettes with glamorous and sophisticated cuts and patterns.

To discover more about the latest collections: Website: www.debajcollection.com Facebook: /debajcollection Instagram: debajcollection

About Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition This is the most anticipated bi-annual fashion exhibition, providing a pivotal platform for Qatari fashion talent. The 11th edition staged the latest spring-summer collection and presented emerging home-grown designers who are in the company of internationally renowned peers, including Eriko, Hessa Falasi, and Naseem Alandalo as part of the 350 brands showcased at this year’s exhibition.

The dynamic free-to-enter event was held from April 28 to May 2, 2017 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. Ladies explored an exciting range of abayas, kaftans, kimonos, jalabiyas, veils, and gowns, among other modest fashion pieces. To know more, visit www.heya.qa.

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ALILIA Timeless fashion marks its Summer17 and Ramadan Collection

Women’s wear brand Alilia believes that fashion should know no time. It channels a boho-chic way of life which shines through in every piece crafted.

Creative designer Ali has collaborated with some of the leading fashion houses throughout Europe. The brand’s fashion viewpoint is based on his eclectic life journey and timeless design perception.

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ALILIA “

Alilia is a brand that evokes memories

and feelings of freedom, creativity, and love. The passion and emotion put into every detail results in collections full of timeless pieces. I don’t see fashion in individual shapes and forms. I see women who know they are unique and will let

”

their story be told with Alilia.

Mr. Ali, creative design

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The Ramadan Collection The collection features colorful dress prints and a mix of lacy tops and original skirts which supports the brand’s boho-chic style through a mixture of fine fabrics, hand feel, and attention to detail. A wide selection of feminine cuts and carefully curated colors ensure that whatever the occasion, each woman feels distinctive but at the same time confident in what she wears.

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View the Alilia high summer 2017 collection along with a special Ramadan edit on its all-new online shopping platform, recently launched along with mid-high end affiliates. The collection is available across Europe, US, Asia, and, for the first time, the Middle East.

Website: www.alilia.com Facebook: Alilia Instagram: aliliaofficial Twitter: aliliaofficial

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LAGOON VILLA

Elegantly furnished 05 Bedroom Duplex Villa, with large Living-cum-Dining Area, modern Kitchen, large private Swimming Pool, beautiful Landscaping and interconnected to a sprawling garden, Covered Car-parks, and all other standard features, in a stylish neighbourhood of West Bay Lagoon Area.

AHMED HASSAN BILAL TRADING & CONTRACTING CO. W.L.L.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

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Clothes that let kids be kids In a world of so-fast, Hanna Andersson loves making clothes that let children be little.

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ver since it was launched by husband and wife duo Gun and Tom Denhart, Hanna Andersson has grown from a U.S. brand with Swedish roots to a firm family favourite.

And now, for the first time ever, the company is opening an overseas store, in Qatar’s newest mall, Doha Festival City.

Hanna Andersson kidswear offers fun, functional, and adventuredriven clothing for little ones (0-14 year olds). With an ethos built on giving kids the freedom to “explore, play, get dirty, and know that everything is comfy and good�, this is a brand that knows what really matters: letting children play and grow with abandon.

Designed with durable fabrics, sturdy seams, and washer-proof colors, the brand is so confident in the quality of its clothing that it offers an Unconditional Guarantee, allowing customers to return product at any time if they are unhappy with their purchase.

Some of the highlights from the collection include their supersoft organic cotton pajamas, irresistible selection of swimwear, and brightly patterned leggings.

Hanna Andersson is now open, and can be found in Doha Festival City, First Floor

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DIGEL THE MENSWEAR CONCEPT DIGEL SPRING-Summer 2017 blurs the lines between formal wear and active wear. The result is athleisure, a new look that sees the urban lifestyle in both business and leisurewear clothing.

Stripes are back in vogue along with minimalist geometric prints, some with 3-D effects. The waistcoat is taking its claim as a key "it" piece worn with a suit or alone over a shirt or t-shirt.

ABOUT THE BRAND. DIGEL IS AN INTERNATIONAL FASHION LABEL with an innovative vision and a creative spirit. Our high standards of service and sustainability govern our actions day in, day out.

Digel’s target group is individualists with a sense of quality for whom confidence of style and affordable contemporary clothing for every occasion are essential.

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For more menswear concept, visit:

DIGEL – THE MENSWEAR CONCEPT

WWW.DIGEL.DE/EN

DIGELOFFICIAL

DIGEL

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MASERATI EXPERIENCE

The Quattroporte reloaded Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Images by Jessie Palanca

The flagship Maserati model has been relaunched for 2017 with an exterior restyling, further refinements for the interior, and additional high-tech features.

QH Team goes for a test drive to experience this wonder of automotive design and function.

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hen we talk about Maserati we always think about words such as luxury, quality, and tradition. I’m not a car expert but I can recognize a beautiful design and a strong engine when I hear or feel one. With years of experience producing dream cars, Maserati never stops amazing car lovers.

Driving the Maserati – an unforgettable experience I remember my first time at the Maserati showroom at The Pearl Qatar. The beautiful white convertible I saw still zooms round my head. It was love at first sight.

Imagine how happy I was when they invited me for a test drive. I was like a little girl going to Disneyland.

This time around, it’s not that white car of my past but the newest Quattroporte – and I’m in love again.

The car I tested was a lovely dark blue color with a luxurious cream interior. Inside it was spacious and modern, with all accessories and technologies available.

I nestled into the driver’s seat, which perfectly accommodated me. I pressed the start bottom, and was rewarded with the powerful hum that demonstrates just how potent the new Quattroporte is.

If you have not yet had the opportunity to drive a luxury car, I’ll tell you this. First, when you look in the car mirror, you will see yourself as so much more beautiful and charming. Second, people give you space when you are driving. That is fantastic. Third, you will have a life-changing experience from the moment you push down on that accelerator.

When you are driving a Maserati you feel yourself living a luxury lifestyle. I can imagine how pleasant my everyday drive to work would be, listening to good music, absolutely comfortable, and proceeding to my destination in a vehicle absolutely pulsing with energy.

I believe I would even start to enjoy traffic jams as I would spend more time inside my Maserati.

(Okay, maybe that was too much). I love to feel this car move. The Quattroporte is a perfect car for city roads, for both men and women, and also for families. It is truly a car that provides everything to everyone. That’s how I feel about it.

Exterior restyling for a more distinguished look After three and a half years of unprecedented success in the international markets, the Quattroporte undergoes a substantial restyling that accentuates its elegance and its signature Maserati personality.

Other distinguishing details of the new Quattroporte are the matte black side skirts and the exterior mirrors, slightly restyled as well to incorporate some new technical features.

Interior enhancements for better functionality The improvements in the interior were developed to enhance the purity of the design by underlining only the functional parts, through clean integration of the new interface elements with the infotainment area and tunnel console.

The redesigned central dashboard now accommodates a capacitive high resolution 8.4� screen with multi-touch function.

This area is now characterized by a continuous technical element that integrates the screen, a new climate control, and a new drawer in a single seamless design typical of the Quattroporte.

The restyled Quattroporte, representing the quintessence of Italian sport sedans, will be available from the fourth quarter of 2016 and is destined to continue a success story that commenced in 2013. Since the initial launch, the iconic Maserati flagship was delivered to over twenty-four thousand customers in 72 countries around the world.

The restyled Quattroporte’s exterior can be recognised by the new bumper design with matte black profile at the front and the matte black extractor at the rear. Even the new front grille, a centrepiece of the Maserati identity, evolves into a new shape. It is inspired by the Alfieri and already featured on the Levante. It is more pointed and imposing, and introduces new vertical chrome elements in contrast to the deepness of the shark nose effect.

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FASHION & LUXURY

The central lower console has also been redesigned and now features a rotary knob for volume and functions control, a new lid, and phone box.

The new infotainment system is compatible with both the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functions. When I found that out, I immediately connected my phone to the car and called my mum in Brazil to tell her I was driving a Maserati. That’s me just being me.

Safety and comfort features for a pleasurable ride Another highlight is that all Quattroporte are now equipped with an Air Quality Sensor, a feature that substantially improves the comfort for the occupants on-board. The system combines an intelligent sensor and a signal analysis system that calculates the external pollution levels and prevents polluted air and toxic gases from entering the cabin.

A new package of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems is available as an option in the new Quattroporte. It includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Brake Assist, and Automated Emergency Braking, as well as a new Surround View Camera.

I haven’t seen anything like this camera. You have a vision of yourself from the front, back, and above. Its absolutely fantastic. There is no place for mistakes.

The new Quattroporte provides you a life/drive experience with all the comfort and convenience you expect from the Maserati brand. If you are thinking of buying a unique car that make your driving special and pleasurable, I definitely recommend you pass by the Maserati showroom and check out their gorgeous machines. n

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The New Quattroporte 2017 by Maserati • Exterior restyling • New GranLusso trim with individual contents • New GranSport trim with individual contents • 3.0 V6 petrol version with additional 20hp (now 350hp) • New infotainment system with high resolution 8.4” capacitive touch screen • Redesigned central console with rotary knob • Standard Air Quality Sensor on all versions • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems optional package • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go • Lane Departure Warning • Forward Collision Warning with advanced Brake Assist • Automated Emergency Braking • Surround View Camera • New Electronic Parking Brake

Website: www.maserati.com/qatar Phone : +974 4406 5601 Email: maserati@alfardan.com.qa

PORTO ARABIA TOWER 6

PERCHED ATOP ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS TOWERS ON PORTO ARABIA The Penthouse offers four well-appointed bedrooms opening out onto large terraces, two lounges and a spacious kitchen, all tastefully decorated to high standards.

AHMED HASSAN BILAL TRADING & CONTRACTING CO. W.L.L.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar marketing@ahbqatar.com www.ahbqatar.com Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

FASHION & LUXURY

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Yara Tlass

A piece for peace Interview by Hairiya Santos

QH shares the passion for positivity and peace of Yara Tlass, a one-of-a-kind jewellery designer. She aspires not only to make life beautiful, but to bring peace and hope to the community through projects that enable, empower, and encourage.

uSfuur is inspired by the arts and humanities. Each jewellery piece, beautifully crafted, gives back to local communities in need through the project’s partnership with a Syrian grassroots charity organization that supports Syrian refugee communities through art therapy, education, and community-based projects.

The concept was created to bring about a sense of peace to art, where pure gold 18-karat necklaces, bracelets, and anklets vary in shape and form from yellow to white and rose gold.

The main icon is an uSfuur (bird), which symbolizes freedom, peace, strength, and hope. As the region is engulfed in distress, uSfuur’s mission is to shine a little light and spread a message of hope. Their motto is “Wear you piece in the name of peace as a reminder to appreciate life’s pretty and simple pleasures”.

QH: Please tell us about yourself – as an entrepreneur, a person, and as a charity founder and worker.

Yara Tlass: I’m Syrian and residing in Dubai at the moment. As an entrepreneur, I like to take on projects that contribute to creating a social impact in my community.

I founded a small grassroots organization to support Syrian refugee children in Turkey in 2014, and a few years later the concept of uSfuur emerged - It just felt like the dots connected in my head.

It’s been an amazing journey, where I feel my passion for arts and culture and humanitarian work are constantly interconnected because with every uSfuur purchase, we donate a share to help support our charity work.

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QH: What is the story behind uSfuur? What are its beginnings?

Yara Tlass: When I first arrived in Dubai, I felt a certain limitation in terms of continuing my charity work from there. I wanted to pursue a social and art-related project, and uSfuur was the perfect endeavor since it’s a business but with a giving aspect incorporated into the business model.

It emerged randomly in a very spontaneous way as if it was always there in my mind. Once I created the main design of the bird icon, I started leveraging the power of social media and word of mouth. I also did a lot of pop-up events and markets in the beginning as well as a few collaborations with some amazing people in arts and fashion. I am so grateful for everything that we have been able to achieve thus far.

QH: What does “giving back” mean to you?

Yara Tlass: It means to contribute something of value and make a positive difference, whether that’s in the form of financial support, volunteering your time to make an underprivileged child smile, or just by buying a product that gives back to support humanitarian projects.

QH: How hands-on are you in your cause?

Yara Tlass: Very hands-on. I follow up with the team on the ground on a daily basis as we have a child-friendly space in Reyhanli on the border town of Turkey to make sure everything is running smoothly.

It’s amazing to see that uSfuur funds a big part of the center’s activities thanks to the generous support of people who feel attached to the cause and want to contribute to create a positive difference.

QH: What are some solid projects the institution has successfully worked on?

Yara Tlass: We have done many campaigns, from distributing aid during Ramadan and Eid to thousands of displaced Syrians across the SyrianTurkish border as well as in Syria, to running art andrecreational projects in Aleppo, Syria and now Makani, our latest learning center, offering art and education to empower the future generation of Syria.

QH: What is your vision for the future? And how do you plan the brand to be involved?

Yara Tlass: My dream is for uSfuur to become an international brand which people from all around the world, from different walks of life and backgrounds, can wear and relate to as a symbol of peace.

With every uSfuur you purchase, we will help support a refugee child in need. One piece for peace and one uSfuur gives back. Transcending the jewellery realm, uSfuur hopes to make a sustainable change helping communities in need.

QH: The uSfuur jewellery project supports refugees in Syria; why there?

Yara Tlass: Because I am Syrian myself. I feel a deep emotional connection to my homeland and because Syria is witnessing one of the biggest tragedies of modern history. That said, I am open to expand the giving-back efforts in the long run to many other places in the region.

QH: Is the brand giving aid to any other beneficiaries?

Yara Tlass: Not yet. We are focusing on my homeland/Watanili for now as it is still a small grassroots organization and in need of so much support. But we are open to other collaborations in the future.

QH: You founded my homeland/Watanili, can you share more about it?

Yara Tlass: It’s a grassroots charity organization supporting Syrian refugee children through arttherapy, education and community aid.

We run arts and creative workshops with refugee kids once or twice a year with a group of volunteers from around the world and we have a child-friendly space on the Syrian-Turkish border, encompassing 60 refugee children, all displaced as a result of the war in Syria.

We teach them basic education, offer arts and crafts classes, and fun activities to create a sense of normalcy and provide them with a feeling of hope and love.

To discover more about the brand and support its charity work: Email: usfuurinfo@gmail.com Instagram: @uSfuur/Jewelry For A Cause

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Top Picks

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL Wanassa – The Ramadan Tent: An Exquisite Iftar

Daily. From sunset to 9:00 PM. Treat yourself to an unlimited delightful buffet of all your favourite Ramadan delicacies; freshly prepared at interactive cooking stations, while enjoying a wide variety of shisha and traditional Ramadan beverages.

Prices are QAR 210 for adults and QAR 110 for children (6-12 years), inclusive of a food buffet, Ramadan juices and soft beverages. For more information or bookings, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

SHAKESPEARE AND CO Iftar for a Cause

Daily. From sunset to 8:00 PM. Iftar for a cause! With every Iftar Menu purchased at Shakespeare and Co. a meal is donated to people in need. Break your fast with dates, Laban and special Ramadan drinks. Start with a soup or salad, enjoy a main course, and end your meal with delicious desserts all at QAR 88. For inquiries and reservations, call 6676 8812 (Dar Al Salam Mall), 6629 3821 (The Pearl) and 5007 9090 (Mall of Qatar).

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Grand Ramadan: Iftar and Sohour Buffet

Daily. In partnership with Qatar Airways, Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel and Villas brings back one of the city’s most popular tents: ‘Ramadanak’. This year the tent will be held in ‘Al Maha’ and ‘Majlis’ where the Arabian spirit of Ramadan will be embodied.

The holy month of Ramadan is a time of reflection, worship and family. As the sun sets, the city comes to life as families and friends head to Ramadan tents to break their fasts with an Iftar buffet and indulge in the local flavor of the city. Prices: International iftar & sohour buffet for QAR 250 per person. For light eaters, the tent will offer a sohour tray with a verity of options priced at QAR 111 per person. For bookings, please call 4448 1234.

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON Ottoman Ramadan: Iftar and Sohour CITY CENTRE ROTANA DOHA Ramadan Promotions

Daily. Highlights for this year’s Ramadan offer are: an amazing Almas Ramadan Tent. We are also hosting an Oriental High Tea every night at Caramel. We also have private offerings at Misk for groups as well as Iftar at Olive Oil our all day dining. Visit rotanatimes.com/citycentrerotana, email fb.citycentre@rotana.com or call 4445 8888.

Daily. The L2 restaurant will be transformed into a tent worthy to tell the stories of Ottoman Ramadan - the tradition of Turkish dishes. Special discounts - 30% for teachers, hoteliers, bankers and airliners.

Prices are QAR 155 per person for Iftar and QAR 175 per person for Sohour. For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email doha.social@hilton.com.

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FASTING What it is, what it means Words by Faaiza Feroz

During the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from all food, drink and certain physical activities during the daylight hours. QH finds out more about this sacred tradition.

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asting during the month of Ramadan is considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam – the five activities that shape a Muslim’s life. It is an annual observance every year as Muslims take out an entire month from their lives to observe this strict fast and rededicate themselves to worship and faith.

The Arabic word for “fasting” literally means “to refrain”, and it not only means refraining from food and drink, but also from evil actions, thoughts and words. We are to make peace with those who have wronged us, strengthen ties with family and friends, and attempt to stop bad habits – essentially to clean up our lives, feelings, and thoughts.

Muslims feel the physical effects of the fast as a reminder of those who suffer throughout the year

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(such as the homeless, poor, refugees, etc.) and cannot meet their basic needs. It is a reminder to Muslims to not be wasteful and to feel empathy for those who face hunger on a daily basis. There is a multitude of people who have learned to survive without these basic needs, and Ramadan is a time for us to give thanks and reaffirm our commitment to helping those in need.

The fast must be observed by all men and women. Children below the age of 18 do not fast like adults, except for purposes of training and will be forgiven for breaking their fast mid-day if they can no longer continue.

It is not only children who receive some exemptions, however. The elderly, women on their monthly cycle, the terminally ill, and pregnant women are all exempted as well. Those exempted who can afford to feed the needy, can do so as part of the fulfillment of their duty.

The opportunity to compensate for any missed fasts due to unavoidable circumstances is presented the six days after Eid-al-Fitr or at any point during the year before the next Ramadan.

In preparation for a new fasting day, Muslims wake up as early as four o’clock to have souhour, their pre-dawn meal before commencing fasting. A heavy meal tends to be consumed because the energy from it needs to remain until the time of breakfast. The final week of fasting is filled with anticipation as people prepare for the day of Eid-al-Fitr.

Ramadan is a very important month in the mind and heart of every Muslim as it unites them and makes them experience how hunger feels for people living in the streets and who have nothing to eat. A sense of gratitude and appreciation is reinforced.

Fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the full commitment of one’s body and soul to the spirit of the fast. n

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RAMADAN FLAVOURS AT THE

WESTIN’S ARABIAN FOOD BAZAAR Words by Luciana Cunha Franca Selected Images by Jessie Palanca

inspired by the colors and patterns of the Arabian night skies. Take a culinary journey through the Gulf, traditionally a crossroads where East meets West and the flavours of both combine for a world-class gastronomic experience.

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa concocts a delightful concept that promises to give your iftar and souhour a taste of heaven. QH Team experienced its authentic regional flavours first-hand.

QH Team was greeted by Westin Hotel staff in a specially decorated Ramadan tent that was a glamorous and colourful spectacle.

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f you were at Westin Hotel last year for Ramadan, you know you can expect nothing less than the highest quality and the most exciting flavours delivered with the hotel’s stellar five-star service in every single detail.

This year, the Westin promised to present something beyond expectations in a new dining concept.

This Ramadan, step through the doors of The Westin Doha’s Arabian Food Bazaar,

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A selection of traditional mezze was served at the beginning of the meal allowing one to break the fast immediately. Included were favorites such as baba ghanoush, fattoush salad, tabbouleh, vine leaves, makdous, and muhamarah. These were served alongside a variety of fresh Ramadan juices including tamarind, laban, and jallab flavours.

After enjoying our mezze I have to confess that everything was delicious and fresh. You can find options for absolutely all requirements.

A wide selection of mains followed. The Arabian Food Bazaar features 16 live stations, each delivering a fresh and tasty experience amid the

delicious aroma of spices and grilled meat. The food stations offer local delights such as traditional quzi and succulent lamb, as well as street food from Istanbul and authentic Turkish favorites such as kunrucu (spicy sausage and cheese stuffed pita), lokantaci, and delicious balik ekmekci (a tasty fried fish sandwich).

Among the specialty dishes are kazu sarma, roast quzi, lentil soup, and chicken bil forn, as well as mougrabia, karniyarik, and tantuni. Alongside these are international flavors including phad Thai noodles, seafood tagine, and many more.

Each ingredient is carefully selected by the hotel’s executive chef who made sure he provides Westin guests with an authentic experience by going himself to Turkey to bring back original flavours for the Westin’s Ramadan spread.

Westin also delights guests with the largest date and chocolate display in Doha, an awe-inspiring chocolate fountain, and a selection of traditional

Turkish desserts. Every meal ends with a choice of traditional Arabic and international desserts including delicious mammoul, baklawa, umm Ali, cheesecake, crème caramel, and rose-scented rice pudding.

The desserts are a real temptation to sweets lovers who can indulge themselves with enticing colours and appetizing flavours while enjoying an otherworldly atmosphere in a sumptuously adorned tent. The staff brought absolutely everything to our table, and those desserts that I took a bite of were all a perfect touch to cap off the meal.

Those taking souhour can look forward to unwinding to the sounds of the oud and relaxing with games such as chess and backgammon.

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa’s Arabian Food Bazaar is a great option for those looking to enjoy distinctive regional tastes in a classic environment this Ramadan. n

For bookings and more information: Website: westindoha.com/ramadan Email: dining.doha@westin.com Telephone: +974 4492 1555

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QH Chef for a Day Challenge

Sherif Sabry

Images by Jessie Palanca

Each month, QH chooses someone to be a Chef for a Day. He or she will work under the keen eye of a master chef, cooking carefully selected recipes that you can prepare at home.

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This June, The Torch Doha General Manager Sherif Sabry accepts the challenge and delivers his very own recipes becoming Panorama’s Chef for a Day. The venue It’s always a pleasure to visit The Torch Doha. The hotel’s architecture is stunning – revolving restaurant! Cantilevered pool! Fifty floors of the most comfortable and luxurious accommodations!

GM Sabry and Chef Beeharee kept up a steady stream of jokes in the kitchen, but they still managed to have the three-set menu ready for judging. They also took time to offer me one of their signature mocktails to try, the Orange Lemon Mint. It was one of the best mocktails I have ever had and it was not even part of the challenge. The orange made a huge difference in the flavour and taste.

Now I have another good excuse to come back to The Torch Doha.

The menu

It is also a place where the staff is thoroughly professional as they warmly serve their guests at the hotel’s cafes and restaurants, known for their delectable dishes. The Panorama restaurant with its sky-high views was the perfect venue for this month’s Chef for a Day demonstration.

GM Sabry chose these three dishes for his challenge:

The challenge

The results

I have been to The Torch a couple of times but this was the first time I met the hotel’s general manager, Mr. Sherif Sabry.

After the dishes were served, the GM was proud of himself and rightly so. His favourite, he said, was the salad, and promised that even people who do not like salads will absolutely enjoy this recipe. He was right! It tasted fresh yet piquant, and I believe it’s the dressing that’s the X-factor here.

I have to tell you that he was more than ready for this challenge, and to be observed by the keen eye of Executive Chef Krishnalall Beeharee and judged by his discerning palate. Mr. Sherif was so ready that he confidently showed up at the kitchen wearing a chef’s apron with his name on it saying: Chef Sherif Sabry.

GM Sabry has a fantastic sense of humor and absolutely everyone was laughing out loud at the Panorama while watching the challenge. The views from Panorama are stunning; if you haven’t been there, you should go as you’re missing one of the best views and restaurants in Qatar.

Starter: Healthy Green Salad / Main: Six Hours Slow-Cooked Lamb Rack / Dessert: Nuts Kunafa

The slow-cooked rack of lamb was oven-roasted to perfection, tender and flavourful. The dessert was also a triumph, with a perfect presentation and blending of sweetness and crunch.

Congratulations to GM Sherif Sabry who won the Chef for a Day challenge by putting all his passion into his cooking. We were all impressed -- even Chef Krishnalall Beeharee, who gave two thumbs up in salute to his GM’s culinary skills.

HEALTHY GREEN SALAD Ingredients: Greens • Small bunch rocket leaves (jarjir) • Small bunch baby rocca • Small bunch baby spinach • 1 lollo rosso •1 baby roman • Small bunch dill leaves • Few pieces mint leaves • Few leaves fresh coriander • 1 cucumber • 1 green capsicum • 5 cherry tomatoes • 1 avocado • 10 blueberries • Seeds from half a pomegranate Dressing: • 1 tbsp. olive oil • 1 tbsp. lemon juice • ½ tbsp. cumin powder • 1 tbsp. honey • ½ tsp. salt Procedure: Cut all vegetables into cubes. Cut all lettuce into 1 cm. Peel avocado, cut into cubes. Marinate with lemon juice and olive oil. Mix all vegetables and lettuce gently with two spoon of dressing. Place into a salad bowl, add avocado, blueberry and pomegranate on top. Serve immediately.

SIX HOURS SLOW-COOKED LAMB RACK WITH POTATO CAKE AND SAUTEED VEGETABLES Ingredients: Lamb • 1 rack of lamb • 10 g. thyme • 10 g. rosemary • 1 red onion, chopped • 1 garlic bulb, minced • 1 leek, chopped • 1 carrot, diced • 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard • 2 tbsp. olive oil • ½ tbsp. salt • ½ tbsp. black pepper • 6 pcs. button mushrooms Potato Cake • 1 large potato, peeled and grated • 120 ml. cooking cream • 2 tbsp. butter • 1 tbsp. salt Vegetables • 1 yellow zucchini • 1 green zucchini • 1 carrot • 6 pcs. asparagus Procedure: Rack of Lamb: Marinate the rack of lamb with rosemary, thyme, mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pan-sear it all around until it turns brown. Place the lamb in a roasting tray together with onion, leek, celery, carrot, and garlic. Add lamb stock; place in oven at 120C for six hours.

Potato Cake: Squeeze grated potato in paper kitchen towel to remove most of the moisture. Mix with cooking cream, butter and salt. Place in oven for 20 minutes at 170C. Vegetables: Cut vegetables, boil in salt water. Drain. Sauté with onion, garlic, and butter.

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FOOD & DINING NUTS KUNAFA Ingredients: • 20 g. kunafa dough • 2 tsp. chopped pistachio • 2 tsp. chopped almonds • 2 tsp. desiccated coconut • 2 tbsp. ghee • 1 tbsp. sugar Sugar Syrup • 2 c. sugar • 1 c. water • 1 tsp. lemon juice • 1 tbsp. rose water Procedure: For Syrup: Boil all the ingredients together for 5 min and allow to cool. Set aside.

Mix ghee and sugar with the kunafa dough. Put a thin layer of the dough in the desired mould. Spread the chopped nuts on top and cover with another thin layer of the kunafa dough. Spread some ghee and bake at 200C for 10 minutes. After baking, pour some cold sugar syrup on the hot kunafa and sprinkle some chopped pistachio on top.

For more information or bookings The Torch Doha : Phone: +974 4446 5600 Mail: Restaurant.reservations@thetorchdoha.com / Info@thetorchdoha.com Website: www.thetorchdoha.com Address: THE TORCH DOHA Al Waab Street, Aspire Zone, P.O. Box 23833 Doha, Qatar Panorama: Available for private groups and events for 30 - 80pax with set menus or buffet.

Located on the 51st floor +974 4446 5600

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About The Torch Doha Standing 300 metres high above the city and with a 360° panoramic view across Doha, the hotel is the result of comprehensive architectural, engineering, and technical design.

Shaped to represent a colossal torch, it held the symbolic flame for the duration of the 15th Asian Games in 2006, the highest flame in the history of the Games.

About General Manager Sherif Sabry Sherif Sabry, a 27-year veteran of the hotel industry, graduated from Alexandria University where he majored in economics and accounting.

He started his professional career as director of sales and marketing at the Starwood Hotels and Resorts chain. After serving as executive assistant manager for three years at the Sheraton Doha, he assumed the position of general manager at The Torch Doha, and has served in that capacity for eight years.

About Executive Chef Krishnalall Beeharee The Torch Hotel’s Mauritius-born, talented, and creative executive chef leads the entire kitchen team and actively contributes to the success of all outlets, catering, and banquets operations while delivering a winning guest experience.

The unique structure of the hotel includes 163 rooms and suites of five-star hotel accommodation, each equipped with an iPad in-room solution; three restaurants including a breathtaking revolving restaurant – Panorama - at 240 metres above ground; two levels of health club with a cantilevered swimming pool 80 metres above ground, the highest in Doha; fitness facilities with state-of-the-art equipment; and a walkway access to Villaggio shopping mall.

For the duration of World Cup 2022, The Torch Doha will be the main hub for sports teams and personalities.

About Panorama Restaurant Located on the topmost level of The Torch Doha, its circular design affords a panoramic view of the city. The tables follow the curves around the glass window and the furniture comes in restful shades of olive and brown which complement the wooden panel walls and lights.

Panorama is available upon reservation for special events, corporate meetings and dinners, product launches, press conferences, and business-related happenings.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

WHERE YOUR RAMADAN NIGHTS GLOW!

As told to Luciana Cunha Franca

La Cigale Hotel invites guests over for another unique Ramadan with a wide range of activities and promotions during this holy month.

T

he hotel provides the opportunity to its guests to experience memorable Iftar and Souhour evenings in different outlets.

Le Cigalon Restaurant offers an Iftar buffet with a wide array of mezzeh, salads, traditional, and international delights complemented by tantalizing desserts. “Shisha Garden” is the perfect choice for those willing to break their fast with the finest selection of mezzeh, barbecue, Oriental delicacies, and smoothies amidst a traditional Arabic atmosphere in a verdant outdoor space kept cool by an advanced outdoor climate control system.

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La Cigale Hotel proudly continues one of Doha’s finest traditions, the La Cigale Ramadan Tent, with the remarkable touch of its partner Qatar National Bank and sponsors Doha Insurance Company, Al-Sadd Exchange, and Al-Sadd Travel.

Each year, La Cigale’s tent is considered Doha’s favorite Ramadan destination, where the indoor swimming pool of the hotel is converted into a contemporary Ramadan tent with an authentic touch that contains private lounges for those who are looking for a tranquil gathering.

In addition to its soothing interior, the exceptional ambience of the venue makes it ideal for family, friends, and colleagues to assemble amid a lavish Souhour buffet with an assortment of Oriental and international dishes, live cooking stations, a succulent desserts section, and a variety of flavorsome shishas.

Also each year, La Cigale Traiteur brings guests a delightful blend of delicacies, including homemade Arabic sweets, cakes, chocolates, Daily Specials, and Iftar Boxes ready for takeaway or dine in, besides an endless selection of gift hampers filled with original Ramadan specialties and sweets. n

Address: 60 Suhaim Bin Hamad Street Tel. No.: +974 4428 8698 / +974 4428 8888 Email: info@lacigalehotel.com Website: www.lacigalehotel.com

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FOOD & DINING

Chef Challenge

VERSATILE PAPAYA Photography by Jessie Palanca Feature coordinated by Hairiya Santos Star Ingredient: Papaya Location: Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Food prepared by Chef Malsawmtluanga Royte

As part of the QH advocacy for a healthy lifestyle, we ask different chefs each month to develop a nutritious meal that can also satisfy the pickiest of palates. This month, we feature wholesome dishes for Ramadan.

A

PPETIZER

Papaya Hummus with Sumac Prawns INGREDIENTS: • 3 pcs. prawns • Sumac • 2 cups olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tbsp. tahina • 1 tbsp. lemon salt • 1 cup ripe papaya • 1 cup chickpeas • Bunch of micro herbs (for garnish) • 1 tbsp. pine nuts (for garnish) • 3 ice cubes Preparation: Boil chickpeas until soft and cool. Puree with tahina, lemon salt, garlic, olive oil, and papaya.

Season with salt and pepper. Marinate the prawns with sumac, salt, and pepper. Heat oil, panfry the prawns, and finish with parsley.

To serve: Smear the papaya hummus in the plate and arrange the cooked prawns on top. Garnish with olive oil, pine nuts, and micro greens.

It’s the Holy Month of Ramadan, a season to contemplate, pray, and fast. Fasting during the daytime is an exercise which is not only good for the spiritual wellbeing, but also delivers essential benefits for physical and mental health. In the evening, take light and nourishing food. These recipes by Chef Royte of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara use papaya, a fruit that contains antioxidants that promote heart health and fight inflammation.

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“In pursuing modern authenticity, giving a modern twist to classical dishes, and adapting to today’s cooking trends, I find there is always something new and amazing to learn.”

Chef Malsawmtluanga Royte

M

AIN COURSE

Lamb Tagine with Carmelised Papaya

INGREDIENTS: •1 pc. lamb shank •½ cup olive oil • ½ cup butter • Salt and pepper to taste • 6 cloves garlic, minced •1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger • 1 tbsp. turmeric powder • 1 tbsp. fresh coriander •1 tbsp. flat parsley, chopped • 1 tbsp. onion, grated • 1 tbsp. onion, chopped • 1 pinch saffron • ½ tbsp. pepper • ½ cup almonds • 1 tbsp. sesame seeds • Quarter raw papaya, cut in cubes • 1 tbsp. cinnamon powder • 1 tbsp. sugar • 1 tbsp. honey • 3 pcs. Arabic bread PREPARATION: Mix the meat with grated onion, garlic, oil, parsley, coriander, butter, and spices, and cook over low heat.

Add 2 1/2 cups water, cover, and continue cooking over medium heat.

Allow tagine to cook for three hours or longer until the meat is very tender and the liquids are reduced. (Note: About 2 hours into the cooking, remove 1/2 cup of the liquid and reserve.)

While the meat is cooking, put the raw papaya in a small pot and cover with water. Simmer over medium heat, partially covered, until the papaya are tender enough to easily pinch off the pit or pinch in half. (The amount of time this takes can vary greatly depending on the papaya, but the average is 10 to 20 minutes).

Drain papaya, then add the 1/2 cup of reserved liquid from the meat. Stir in honey, sugar and cinnamon, and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until they are sitting in a thick syrup.

TO SERVE: Arrange the meat on a large serving platter and spoon the papaya and syrup on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and fried almonds.

The Moroccan tradition is to gather around the table and eat from this communal plate, using Moroccan bread to scoop up the meat and sauce. This recipe uses Arabic bread instead.

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D

ESSERT

Sweet Solo Papaya Jelly and Vanilla Mousse with Tamarind Sweet Spices Sauce and Almond Tuile INGREDIENTS FOR SWEET SOLO PAPAYA JELLY: • 1 teacup water 1 tsp. caster sugar • 1 leaf gelatin (soak gelatin sheets in ice • water to soften, then strain and gently squeeze)• ½ pc. orange zest • ½ pc. lemon zest • 1 teacup solo papaya, cut into cubes FOR VANILLA MOUSE: • 1 egg yolk • 1 egg white • ½ coffee spoon vanilla essence • 1 tsp. cornstarch • 1 coffee cup cream • 1 leaf gelatin sheet • ½ teacup sugar • 1 cup whipped cream FOR TAMARIND SWEET SPICES SAUCE: • 1 teacup tamarind paste • 1 coffee cup water • 2 pcs. star anise • 1 whole pc. cinnamon • 1 coffee spoon green aniseed • 1 pc. dried chili • 1 coffee cup caster sugar FOR ALMOND TUILE: • 3 tsp. glucose • 1 teacup caster sugar • 1 teacup flaked almonds PREPARATION: FOR SWEET SOLO PAPAYA JELLY: Make jelly with water, sugar, gelatin, and citrus zests. Bring it all to the boil and sieve through a conical strainer, set aside. Cut papaya into little cubes then fill the molds. Place in the refrigerator for 45 minutes.

FOR VANILLA MOUSE: Make custard in a large bowl; mix egg yolks, corn starch, and cream until smooth. When the custard is cooked, add vanilla essence and stir to combine. Soak gelatin sheets in ice water to soften, then strain and gently squeeze. Add to the mixture and combine until smooth. Let cool.

FOR TAMARIND SWEET SPICES SAUCE: Mix tamarind paste with water, spices, dried chili, and sugar in a saucepan and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Sieve through a conical strainer and place in the fridge.

FOR ALMOND TUILE: Slowly melt glucose and sugar until a golden color is obtained. Add almonds. Spread mixture out on butter paper, cover with butter paper, and roll out to a thickness of 1mm. Cut out shapes as you like or shape them as in the picture.

TO ASSEMBLE: Unmold vanilla mousse; place one on top of the almond tuile with papaya jelly. Drizzle the tamarind sauce over the plate, and decorate with circles of almond tuile.

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Website: doha.anantara.com Contact Number: 4040 5050 Email: doha@anantara.com

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

CELEBRATING RAMADAN TRADITIONS

InterContinentalÂŽ Doha salutes heritage and culture with its Ramadan culinary promotion featuring carefully-prepared iftar and sohour menus and settings for the whole family.

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he holy month of Ramadan is a significant month for Muslims and a time for spiritual reflection. Residents of Qatar are anticipating both daily contemplation and vibrant evenings as the spirit of Ramadan comes alive.

Fasting from dawn to sunset and breaking the fast with the iftar and souhour meals are among the traditional practices observed all over the country, where hotels have pitched magnificent Arabesque tents and provided traditional live entertainment.

This year, cherish the holy month of Ramadan and all its traditions in the exquisite setting of InterContinentalÂŽ Doha. Partake in a lavish iftar buffet at Coral featuring a wide variety of Arabic, Oriental, and international delights. The vibrant Coral and Coral Terrace are festooned with stunning Arabian decorations and lanterns.

The breathtaking Shahrazad tent at Al Wajba Ballroom brings you a special souhour under its magnificent and vibrant colours and Arabesque design motifs. Here you can look forward to a wide array of delicious specialties meticulously prepared by our team of master chefs, as well as enchanting live traditional Arabian entertainment and flavourful shishas.

Celebrate Ramadan with us and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. n

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Iftar starts at sunset at QAR 225. Sohour starts at 9:00 p.m. at QAR 195.

Children 6 to 12 years old get 50% off; 15% off for bookings from 10 to 25 persons.

For bookings or enquiries: +974 4484 4919 or email fb.icdoha@ihg.com For bookings of 25 persons or more: +974 4484 4995 or email meetings.icdoha@ihg.com Website: doha.intercontinental.com

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FOOD & DINING

Word of Mouth Images by Jessie Palanca Featured restaurant: Fanajeen Café, The Gate Mall

Every month, by way of giving the community a voice in our pages, QH sends one of its readers to experience a meal in a restaurant. This month Mr. Farhaan Ahmed Khan heads to the Fanajeen Café at Gate Mall for a dining experience with his family.

QH: Describe the ambiance.

The ambiance was pleasant as well as romantic and definitely luxurious.

QH: Describe the quality of the food.

In one word, just simply - excellent.

QH: Describe the quality of the service.

I would rate them 10 on 10!

QH: Would you go back? Why/why not?

QH: What did you order?

I would definitely head back to them soon! My wife loved the ambience and especially the friendliness of the staff. They treated our eight-month old son with much love and care.

Starters: Paris Doha and Fanajeen Caesar salad

QH: Favourite thing about the restaurant?

Main Course: Piccatina al Limone e Capperi and Chicken a La Basques

I would say the seating. The feel while seeing the restaurant seating just makes it all positive vibes.

Dessert: Cheese Cake and Red Velvet Cupcake

QH: Was there a special touch or flair to the experience?

Drinks: Choclatire [a chocolate shake] and Colada QH: Were the prices reasonable?

The prices were reasonable enough for being located in an expensive mall.

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Indeed! I don’t think I will ever forget this. On May 18, I won the competition which was the day my son turned eight months. On chatting with the manager, we mentioned how Fanajeen was lucky for our family. Our names all start with F - Farhaan,

Farjana, and my son Furqan at Fanajeen to celebrate a birthday. Before we left they came up with a surprise cake with a candle on which was written “Happy Birthday” for my little one. It gave a special touch to our hearts.

QH: Could the overall experience be improved?

If so, how?

I would recommend Fanajeen to have their own private space which will create more coziness and comfort, rather being in the middle of the mall where people are walking around. n

Fanajeen Café Address: Ground Floor, The Gate Mall, West Bay, Doha Telephone: 4407 7144 Website: www.fanajeencafe.com

NEW

BILAL STUDIOS ST U D I O A N D 1 B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T S

The stylish tower offers studio and 1 bedroom apartments with modern furniture and appliances. The tower facilities include a well-equipped gym, outdoor rooftop swimming pool, a sundeck, 24-hour security and concierge and is a short stroll away from Grand Hamad St. and its associated amenities.

AHMED HASSAN BILAL TRADING & CONTRACTING CO. W.L.L.

Box 7848, Doha, Qatar • marketing@ahbqatar.com • www.ahbqatar.com • Tel: 4442 8877 | 4441 1881 | 3378 7871

FOOD & DINING

SUNDAY MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Mediterranean Night Buffet Sawa. From 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Watch Sawa transform to a Mediterranean culinary haven.

Explore a buffet with authentic starters, salads and cheeses from the region as well as grilled fish and meat, oyster, live pasta stations and genuine Italian gelato. Price is QAR 250 including soft beverages. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

WEDNESDAY INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Soiree Entrecote Prime. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Skip being a chef at home and join our Prime grill experience instead for a truly divine experience! Let us take you back to home cooking and good meats. Enjoy unlimited cuts of rib eye steak along with a salad, sides, signature sauces, and dessert. QAR 250 –inclusive of salad bar, unlimited meat prepared a la minute, sides as well as signature sauces, and dessert for a perfect night out! For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com.

THURSDAY MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

International Lunch Buffet Sawa. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM on June 29. Enjoy a wide selection of cuisines with live cooking stations to ensure your meals are cooked to your perfection this Sunday at Sawa’s International Lunch Buffet. With fun activities for the little ones and a setting to whisk you away to paradise, enjoy this time with friends and family for only QAR 220 including soft beverages.

For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

Where To Go and QAR 428 -unlimited food, soft beverages, and premium house beverages. For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Journey through Asia Buffet From 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Offering a large selection of curry dishes, ranging from traditional Indian recipes to dishes from Thailand, as well as delicacies from China to Japan. Indulge in artfully prepared sushi and sashimi along with a variety of live stations, with talented chefs waiting to prepare your perfect dish. Price is QAR 250 per person including soft beverages. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@ kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

DAILY S P E& CIALS

ALRAYYAN HOTEL DOHA

Lunch Buffet Daily at Mezzo Restaurant. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Take a break during the day and enjoy a satisfying Lunch buffet at Mezzo restaurant for only QAR85 per person! For more information, email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com , call or WhatsApp 55133472.

DOHA MARRIOTT

Breakfast Buffet Daily at Corniche Restaurant. From 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Enjoy a mouth-watering fresh breakfast for only QAR 119 (full buffet) or QAR 99 (healthy buffet). Also available a la carte breakfast. Entertainment Vouchers and corporate discounts are valid. For more information, call 4429 8888 or email mhrs. dohmc.fb.sales@marriotthotels.com.

Lunch Daily at Corniche Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A la carte. Salad-bar including soup and breads – for QAR 45. Daily special black board Menu (Main Courses) + Salad-Bar for QR 100. All kind of beverages, will be charged as per consumption. Entertainment Vouchers and corporate discounts are not valid for the Salad-bar. For more information, call 4429 8888 or email mhrs.dohmc.fb.sales@ marriotthotels.com.

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON

FRIDAY

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

Yum Cha Brunch Hwang. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Join us for an Asian Funky Brunch experience and let our Chefs take you on a culinary journey of South East and its flavours. Prices: QAR 228 -unlimited food and soft beverages, QAR 328 -unlimited food, soft beverages, and selected house beverages

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Breakfast Daily at L2 Restaurant. From 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, weekends until 11 AM for only QAR 110 per person. Happy hour from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM for only QAR 70 per person. For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email doha.social@hilton.com.

Lunch Daily at L2 Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM for only QAR 90 per person. Mini business lunch (two course – either starter and main course or main course and dessert) for only QAR 60 per person. For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email doha.social@hilton.com.

Dinner Daily at L2 Restaurant. From 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM for only QAR 85 per person. Happy hour buffet from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM for only QAR 65 per person. For reservations, please call 5079 3203 or email doha. social@hilton.com.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

Summer Omakase Menu Daily at Nobu Doha. From 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Experience Nobu’s best dishes this summer with a 4-course menu including your choice of starter, sushi, main course and desserts for only QAR 350 per person. For inquiries and reservation, call 4494 8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Elements Express Lunch Daily at Elements. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. In a hurry? Try our Express lunch which offers a 3-course menu or 2-course menu featuring selection of simple and composed salads or warm soup, low calorie main course and irresistible dessert. Prices: QAR 95 for 3-course meal and QAR 85 for 2-course meal. For inquiries and reservation, call 4494 8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

Traditional Afternoon Tea Daily at Seasons Tea Lounge. From 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. The award winning sophisticated afternoon tea offers beautifully presented cakes, dainty pastries, scones and delicate finger sandwiches served with exquisite blends of the finest teas. Price is QAR 195 inclusive of one hot or cold beverage. For inquiries and reservation, call 4494 8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Lunch and Dinner Daily at Mykonos. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM with Chef’s special for the day. Our Bouzouki Duo Players are back to give you a unique experience with your all-time favorite traditional live Bouzouki. Let them transport you to the magical island of Mykonos every day from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM except Saturday. Open daily at 12:00 PM; normal operation with a la carte menu.

For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Take a Break from Business Sun.-Thurs. at The Square. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The Business Lunch menu offers a wide selection of delectable starters and mouth-watering main courses, including locally-sourced seafood, prime cuts of meat, vegetarian options, and a guilty dessert bar which is perfect for a midday pick-meup. Business Lunch options starting from QAR 75.

For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Ladies Breakfast Daily at Gourmet House. From 6:30 AM to 11 AM. Ladies can enjoy the Kempinski breakfast buffet of Gourmet for only QAR 75 per person. For more information, contact 4405 3326 or restaurants. doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doh.

All listings are categorized per hotel, per day. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

Express Business Lunch Sun. – Thurs. at Gourmet House. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For only QAR 75 or QAR 95 per person Experience the new express business lunch menu of Gourmet House. Offering a creative 2 or 3-course menu making use of fresh and locally farmed ingredients, all served within 45 mins. For more information, contact 4405 3326 or restaurants. doha@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/doh.

LA CIGALE HOTEL

Daily at YEN Sushi Bar. From 11:30 AM to 12:00 MN (Ramdan timings: Iftar till 00:30 am). Best sushi and sashimi served on a special rotating belt; color coded plated formula along with A La Carte menu.

For inquiries or reservation, call 4428 8698.

Daily at Le Central. During Ramadan Le Central will open at 6:30 am till 11:00 am and for lunch from 12:00 till 15:00 and for dinner from 19:00 till 00:30). Mediterranean specialties including a seafood market and antipasti station complemented by the extended beverage selection. For inquiries or reservation, call 4428 8772.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Daily. Indulge in our enticing dining options throughout the month of Ramadan. From breakfast, lunch or dinner, from dine-in to Grab’n Go, we have it covered: Crossroads Kitchen (6:00 AM to 11:00 AM), Quick Bites (6:00 AM to 7:00 PM), Cucina (12:00 PM to 11:00 PM), New York Steakhouse (6:30 PM to 11:30 PM), Aqua Lounge (6:00 PM to 1:00 AM), West End Café (6:00 PM to 11:00 PM) and West End Patisserie (10:00 AM to 10:00 OM). For more information or bookings, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Daily at Café Murano. From 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Open daily throughout Ramadan with a variety of sweet and savoury offerings, à la carte breakfast and lunch options, signature fine pastries, finger sandwiches, afternoon tea, salads and light snacks. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA

Daily at Blue Restaurant. From 12.30 pm to 12 midnight (Ramadan timings: 6:00 pm to 1:30 am), Blue Restaurant serves international gastronomic delights with the perfect pairing of premium Western steaks and Oriental sushi. For more information, call 4445 5535.

Daily at Agora Restaurant. From 12.30 pm to 12 midnight (Ramadan timings: 6:00 pm to 1:30 am), The hotel’s signature restaurant represents the best of authentic Turkish cuisine in traditional setting.

For more information, call 4445 5540.

SANTA MONICA BREAKFAST CLUB

Daily. From 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Santa Monica Breakfast Club is designed to encompass vibrant colors, cozy seating arrangements and a reading corner, to help guests forget about work stress, kick back and socialize amongst friends. With a rich variety of egg and southern Californian dishes, Santa Monica Breakfast Club will transport the essence of the iconic LA County, known to boast a friendly, social, open-minded environment and a healthy living mentality. Please visit http:// santamonicabreakfast.club for more information.

Or call 4448 1234 for bookings.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA

Lunch and Dinner Buffet Daily at Sridan. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM (lunch) and from sunset to 12:00 MN (dinner). Sridan, the hotel’s souq-themed buffet restaurant, will remain open during Ramadan and continue to offer the best value for money with excellent service. Prices are QAR 109 per person for lunch and QAR 139 per person for dinner. Please call +9 4429 5000 or email sales.sldh@shangri-la.com for more information.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA, A RITZCARLTON HOTEL

Daily at Al Liwan Restaurant. Breakfast set menu /a la carte (for non-fasting guests) from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM and lunch a la carte (for non-fasting guests) from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. For more details, contact the hotel at 4425 6666 or visit the website at http://www.ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

Daily at La Veranda. From 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM. A la carte menu available. La Veranda is the perfect place to experience an authentic taste of Italian cuisine. Serving delicious selections, from Italian home cooking to pizzas baked in a traditional wood burning oven, all against a backdrop of a magnificent sea view on the unique outdoor terrace. For reservations and inquiries call 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA

Daily at Luxe Lounge. Form sunset to 2:00 AM. Modern lounge located in the hotel lobby, welcoming guests in a cosy atmosphere and a relaxing ambience. The philosophy encompasses organic gourmet offering. Enjoy a choice of pastries, petit fours, chocolate pralines and a unique selection of quality coffees and a variety of aromatic and herbal oriental teas. For bookings call 3359 8514 or email dining.doha@westin.com.

Daily at Seasonal Taste. From 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM (breakfast), 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM (lunch) and 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM (dinner). Seasonal Tastes is fueled by international cuisine, showcasing the freshest products and ingredients. A great deal of food will be prepared fresh, a la minute. The emphasis for the food will be fresh and healthy with a modern approach to preparation and presentation.

During Ramadan the buffet will be inspired by Arabic signature dishes and international favorites.

For bookings call 3359 8514 or email dining.doha@ westin.com.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Supper Club Sat. – Thurs. at Market by Jean Georges.

From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Wrap up the day and have all your dinner essentials in a 3-course menu with a post office dinner. For more information or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

Daily at La Spiga by Paper Moon. Lunch will be served from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Express lunch served between 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Supper Club will be served from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Dinner will be served from 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM. For more information or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@whotels.com.

EID SPECIALS ALRAYYAN HOTEL DOHA

Eid Specials Daily. From 4:00 PM onwards. Eid with us! Enjoy a tasty set menu with popular local dishes for only QAR 120 per person (3 course meals)! For more information, email DOHMO_FB@hilton.com , call or WhatsApp 5513 3472.

FOUR SEASONS DOHA

Eid Al Fitr Lunch Buffet First 3 days of Eid at Elements. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Savour a true sumptuous Eid Lunch buffet in Elements restaurant. Indulge in array of live cooking stations and mouthwatering dessert selections with your families and loved ones.

Prices: QAR 200 inclusive of local water and QAR 300 with alcohol beverage package. For inquiries and reservations, call 4494 8600 and dining.doh@ fourseasons.com.

Eid Al Fitr Afternoon Tea First 3 days of Eid at Seasons Tea Lounge.

From 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Celebrate the end of Ramadan together with your family over the delicious afternoon tea menu. Price is QAR 215 inclusive of one hot or cold beverage. For inquiries and reservations, call 4494 8600 and dining.doh@ fourseasons.com

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Special Eid Brunch Coral Restaurant. 2 days of Special Eid Brunch with exciting activities for the little ones. QR 325 including house beverages or QR 275 with soft drinks For reservations, please call 4484 4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY Eid Lunch and Dinner On the Three Days of Eid The Square. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (lunch) and 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM (dinner). Rejoice in the celebration of Eid and dine at The Square for lunch or dinner with your beloved friends and family. A wide array of international favourites and culinary delights await you. Prices are QAR 155 for international buffet lunch and QAR 180 for international buffet dinner.

For reservations or further information please call 4015 8888 or email icdohathecity.dining@ihg.com.

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES

Eid Afternoon Tea June 26-29 at Gourmet House. From 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Join us in Gourmet House for a 3-tierd High Tea curated especially for you and a friend during Eid. With miniature sweet and savoury Arabic and European treats accompanied by perfectly brewed tea and coffee, ensuring a well-balanced afternoon out with friends and family. Price is QAR 185. For more information, contact 4405 3326 or gourmet.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doh.

All listings are categorized per hotel, per day. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

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FOOD & DINING MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI

Eid-al-Fitr Celebration Brunches Sawa. From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM on June 25 Signature sweet and savoury recipes from all around the world, fine live entertainment and a children corner on the lawn are the elements of the first and only 5-star Brunch experience at The Pearl. Prices: QAR 350 per person including soft beverages and QAR 450 per person including selected drinks. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

Eid-al-Fitr Dinner Mon. – Wed. at Al Sufra. From 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Join us in the multi-award winning Levant restaurant Al Sufra to indulge in the best delicacies the region has to offer, accompanied by daily specialities and an authentic dessert buffet as you take your taste buds on a flavoursome journey.

Immerse yourself in the beautiful interior and relax as the restaurant is filled with the authentic notes of the live band. Prices are a la carte. For more information, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants. marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski. com/marsamalaz.

Where To Go QAR 410 (including sips) and QAR 295 (including selected non-alcoholic beverages) per person. For more information or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@ whotels.com.

Eid Brunch 2nd Day of Iftar at Spice Market. From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. One of the iconic brunches Doha offers.

Enjoy culinary delights from the streets of South East Asian with live Cooking Stations and Signature sips with entertainment by Doha Jazz. Price: QAR 410 (including alcoholic beverages) and QAR 295 (including selected non-alcoholic beverages) per person. For more information or reservations, please contact 4453 5135 or email bnfreservations.wdoha@ whotels.com.

MĂ–VENPICK HOTEL DOHA

Eid Buffet Daily at Seasons Restaurant. From 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Come to the Seasons restaurant and indulge into festive atmosphere of Eid Al Fitr. Lavish buffet and live cooking stations, traditional Arabic dishes and sweets. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

ORYX ROTANA

Eid Brunch (First day) From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. On the holy month of Ramadan, enjoy a lavish Oriental dinner with ouzi, cold mezzeh, shawarma, live mixed grill station, manakish, etc.. Buffet price at QR 270 per person including local water, Arabic juices, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea. For inquiries and reservations, call 4402 3333.

Eid Brunch (Second day and third day) From 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. On the holy month of Ramadan, enjoy a lavish Oriental dinner with ouzi, cold mezzeh, shawarma, live mixed grill station, manakish, etc. Buffet price at QR 270 per person including local water, Arabic juices, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea and QR 350 including unlimited selected house beverages. For inquiries and reservations, call 4402 3333.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES

Market Eid Brunch 2nd Day of Iftar at Market by Jean Georges.

From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Celebrate EID in style at Market by Jean Georges. With live Entertainment by Adrian & Belind, the award-winning brunch includes sushi, live carving stations, selection of cheese and salads and an indulgent dessert section. Price is

All listings are categorized per hotel, per day. Inclusion is limited to availability of space, with priority given to advertisers.

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FOOD & DINING

Ramadan Flavours 2017 InterContinental Doha the City

QH presents a rundown of this year’s best Iftar and Souhour promotions from Doha’s top hotels. Discover the top-of-the-list Ramadan Tents that offer a delectable array of sweet and savoury treats to be experienced with friends and family this Holy

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Double Tree by Hilton

W Doha Hotel & Residences

Shangri-La Hotel Doha The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Ramadan at Movenpick Al Aziziyah Doha

Four Seasons Hotel Doha Ramadan Tent La Cigale Hotel

Sharq Village & Spa, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel 77

FOOD & DINING

Where To Go (Ramadan Offerings)

QH RECOMMENDS fun games and coloring corner. Goodies bags and surprises will be waiting for them!

Price: Free Time: 7:30 PM BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA RAMADAN KAREEM AT AZRAQ Savour a wide variety of delightful cuisine and Ramdan specialties as you listen to the dulcet tones of our Arabic band, while dining in style in the chic indoor tent or alfresco with fabulous views across the gulf.

Iftar (from sunset to 9:00 PM) QAR 220 per adult| QAR 110 per child Suhour (10:00 PM to 2:00 AM) Price for residents: QAR 220 per Adult / QAR 110 per child Price for non resdidents: QAR 270 per Adult / QAR 160 per child For more information and reservations, call 4040 5000 or email doha@anantara.com.

EGGSPECTATION

Daily. From sunset to 8:00 PM (Iftar) and 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM (Sohour). This Ramadan, you can enjoy a selected “All You Can Eat” Menu for Iftar and Suhoor at Eggspectation! Prices are QAR 99 for Iftar and QAR 89 (Sohour). For inquiries and reservations, call 5040 9900 (The Pearl) and 5549 3715 (Mall of Qatar).

ADAGIO PREMIUM APARTHOTEL RAMADAN AT ADAGIO Al Dirwandi Restaurant Planning for Ramadan Iftar or Sohour for a corporate event or family gathering, Al Dirwandi restaurant is your ideal choice. Open Buffet at QAR 130 per person for group bookings of 20 persons and above.

The bigger is the group the higher is the discount!

Kids policy apply For more information, please call 4403 8789.

ALRAYYAN HOTEL DOHA Experience genuine Arabic hospitality at the different venues in AlRayyan Hotel Doha. Break your fast with a lavish selection of Arabic favorites at Mezzo restaurant. Enjoy a delightful evening at the rooftop Arabic tent with a variety of shisha flavors, mouthwatering light bites or prepare

for next day’s fast and share with your loved ones a generous Sohour tray.

A TRUE TASTE OF IFTAR AT MEZZO Price: QAR 175 per person - Book before 15 May and get 20% off your total bill. From Magreb to 8:30pm. Children below 8 years old dine for free, from 8 to 15 years old QAR 88.

QAR 120 per person - Sohour tray Saturday to Wednesday from 9:30 PM to 1:00 AM. Thursday and Friday from 9:30 PM to 2:00 AM. ENJOY AN AUTHENTIC SOHOUR AT OUR RAMADAN TENT QAR 120 per person - Sohour tray Saturday to Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Thursday and Friday from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM. GARANGAO On the 14th day of Ramadan, join us for a Garangao celebration. Bring the little ones along and let them enjoy

CENTRO CAPITAL DOHA RAMADAN IFTAR Enjoy Arabic flavours along with a live cooking station every day from sunset to 9:00 PM during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Bring your family and friends and share unforgettable memories at c.taste for only QAR 125 per person.

For more information and reservation, call 4455 5000 or visit https://www.rotanatimes. com/centrocapitaldoha/offers/17703.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA DOHA ALMAS BALLROOM Almas Ramadan Tent From Sunset to 2:00 AM. Join us at our beautiful Almas Ramadan Tent for lavish Iftar and Suhur buffets featuring an extensive range of Arabic delicacies, International cuisine, live cooking stations and Ramadan beverages. Enjoy live entertainment and shisha throughout the month when you dine with us. Price starts at QAR 195 per person.

CARAMEL LOBBY LOUNGE Oriental High Tea From sunset to 1:00 AM. Delight in an evening of traditional Arabic sweets and pastries at Caramel, when you join us for an elegant Suhur. Enjoy both traditional and modern treats including homemade maamoul, baklava and Kanafeh for only QAR 85 per person.

For more information and bookings, visit rotanatimes.com/citycentrerotana, email fb. citycentre@rotana.com or call 4445 8888.

DOHA MARRIOTT THE BIGGEST IFTAR IN TOWN With over 100 dishes to choose from, our Restaurant Gallery will be set up daily from sunset to 8pm with a true Ramadan ambiance and “Souq” style décor

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in order to host individuals and smaller groups for QR 185 per person. Enjoy our authentic Majilis style lobby tent, showcasing traditional henna art, Falconry and Arabic tea & coffee station daily throughout the Holy month. Shisha will also be available outside at The View extension terrace.

Not forgetting to pay a visit to our Resident Camels, who will be joining us again this year throughout Ramadan.

Iftar Price: QAR 185 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Sohour Price: QAR 139 Time: 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM For reservations, call 4429 8499, or email dinemarriottdoha@marriott.com.

EZDAN HOTEL RAMADAN AT AL THOURAYA RESTAURANT From Sunset to 8:30 PM. Join us during the Holy month of Ramadan for an open buffet, international and oriental dishes with free including Ramadan juices, dates and sweets for only QAR 180 per person.

SUHOOR AT THE SPORT CAFÉ From 9:30 PM to 2:00 AM. Ramadan Suhoor special, taste authentic oriental and international cuisine for only QAR 79 per person.

For more information, call 4496 9600 / 4496 9459.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA RAMADAN TENT The Hotel’s spacious 758 square metre Ramadan tent – located within Al-Mirqab Ballroom showcases a contemporary design, influenced by traditional Arabic architecture, resulting in a stylish yet sophisticated ambiance. The culinary experience includes extensive Iftar and Sohour menus featuring traditional Ramadan cuisine, and complemented by an array of delicious international dishes, including 25 buffet and live cooking stations. Highlights include a special Ramadan and Qatari dishes, a Japanese sushi station, dim sum carousel, pasta and carving station, Arabic and western desserts station and many more.

Iftar: QAR 235 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM Sohour: QAR 270 from 10:00 PM to 1:30 AM For inquiries and reservations, call 4494 8600 or email dining.doh@fourseasons.com.

GALLER CHOCOLATIER QATAR RAMADAN’S SPECIAL MENU Galler, an icon in the world of Belgian chocolate is now offering Ramadan Special menu for only QAR 180 1st 15 days: 5:30 PM to 1:00 AM 2nd 15 days: 5:30 PM to 2:00 AM Located at Mall of Qatar. For more information, call 4476 0141.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA CORAL RESTAURANT Iftar Celebrate Iftar with family and friends at Coral this Ramadan, where a premium selection of authentic Arabic cuisines alongside international flavours await you. Iftar is served from sunset to 8:30 PM for only QAR 225 and QAR 115 for children 7 to 12 years old. Children 6 years old below dine free. For more information and reservations, please call 4484 4919.

Sohour A la carte menu from 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM. SHAHRAZAD TENT (AL WAJBA BALLROOM) Sohour Cherish the holy month of Ramadan and all its tradition with Sohour in our captivating “Shahrazad” tent. The sumptuous buffet line-up features oriental hot and cold mezze, Ramadan specialities, and international cuisine prepared at live-cooking stations. Here you will find mesmerising traditional Arabic splendours combined with modern extravagance, topped with authentic, live Arabian performances. Sohour is served from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM at QAR 195 and QAR 95 for children 7 to 12 years old. Children 6 years old and below dine free.

TEA LOUNGE Tea Lounge will open only from 6 PM to 1 AM with a special Ramadan sweet buffet & special menu that features signature dishes from all of our awardwinning restaurants. For more information and reservations, please call 4484 4919.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY AL JAWHARA RAMADAN OASIS Iftar From sunset to 8:00 PM, enjoy traditional cuisine served with an ambiance influenced by Qatari heritage, and delight in our live cooking stations and mouthwatering displays. Try our specialty traditional desserts such as katayef, kunafa, and a whole range of signature dishes. Price is only QAR 195 including Ramadan beverages.

Sohour From 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM (weekdays) and 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM (weekends), feast on traditional delights and try exotic dishes from around the region as you enjoy the soft melodies from our live band and watch a vibrant and captivating tanoura show. An extensive Shisha menu with enticing and signature flavours will be served. Price is only QAR 195 including Ramadan beverages / QAR 115 for a dessert buffet including Ramadan Beverages.

The best things in life are sweet! Indulge all you want in our delightful dessert buffet with sweet treats, traditional favourites such as Katayef and Kunefa and our signature Chocolate Bar. All of which are best enjoyed in the relaxing ambiance of our Al Jawhara Ramadan Oasis.

Private Majlis / Social Majlis Experience Ramadan with friends and famiily with an enhanced offering and choose between an

intimate private majlis, or our relaxing and leisurely social majlis during Iftar and Sohour. A minimum of four people per tent.

Early Bird and Group Offers InterContinental Doha The City is offering all groups an early bird offer of up to 25% off on iftar and sohour packages if they book before the 15th of May, 2017. Corporate packages and group rates are also available for those who wish to enrich their iftar or sohour experience. For those who would like to gift partners, family and friends with a delightful Iftar or Sohour experience, advanced vouchers are available for purchase.

Early Bird Ramadan Offer Book before 15 May, 2017 and enjoy our early bird Iftar and Sohour buffet packages.

20% discount from 20 - 50 guests 25% discount for 50 guests and above If you have any other inquiries or you would like to make a reservation, please contact us directly on 4015 8888 / 7021 8803 or email aljawharaoasis. ramadan@ihg.com KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES GOURMET HOUSE Iftar Menu From sunset to 8:30 PM. Savour the Iftar menu with a 4-course selection of Arabic and European delicacies, ideal for sharing with your loved ones for only QAR 195 per person including Ramadan juices. For more information, contact 4405 3325 or restaurants.doha@kempinski.com or www. kempinski.com/doha.

LA CIGALE HOTEL LE CIGALON RESTAURANT Iftar Break your fast with an extravagant buffet for all what you need to enjoy a truly unforgettable Iftar experience. Buffet price is QAR 220. Special discounts will be applicable for groups of 15 persons and above. For inquiries or reservation, call 4428 8698.

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FOOD & DINING LA CIGALE RAMADAN TENT Sohour With its exclusive ambiance, flavorsome Shishas and extravagant Sohour Buffet spread of traditional and International dishes, live cooking stations and mesmerizing dessert, La Cigale Ramadan Tent will sweep you away to a marvelous Ramadan experience. Buffet price for only QAR 250. Special discounts will be applicable for groups of 20 persons and above. For inquiries or reservation, call 4428 8809/10.

Corporate Iftar and Souhour Invitations Impress your guests and colleagues in our scrumptious International Iftar and Souhour buffet available at La Cigale Hotel, or choose your own private event in one of our luxurious venues with a variety of bespoke menus designed for your preference.

Where To Go (Ramadan Offerings) there is a variety of shisha flavours available and live entertainment. Price is only QAR 290 per person.

For more information and reservations, contact 4035 5011 or restaurants.marsamalaz@kempinski. com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz/ramadan

ORYX ROTANA MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA FLAVOURS RESTAURANT Iftar Buffet From 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Share traditional breaking of fast with your family and friends at Flavours Restaurant and enjoy a lavish Iftar buffet, featuring an extensive range of authentic Arabic delights, finest international treats, live cooking stations and traditional Ramadan juices.

Special discounts will be applicable for groups.

For more details, please call 4428 8532

Price: QAR 180, Kids policy: children up to 5 years old eat for free, while 5 to 12 years old get a 50% discount. Special rates for groups and prepaid bookings.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Sohour Buffet From 10:00 PM to 1:30 AM. Enjoy a special Suhoor celebration at Flavours restaurant, blending traditional favorites and contemporary dining for only QAR 120.

An Enchanting Sohour From 9:30 PM to 1:30 AM. Delight in Sohour at Wanassa with an à la carte menu featuring authentic Ramadan specialties, selection of Arabic sweets, select Ramadan beverages and live entertainment along with a wide variety of Shisha.

A la carte. For more information or bookings, call 4419 5000 or visit marriottmarquisdohadining.com.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI A PALATIAL RAMADAN AT MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI - RAMADAN TENT Marsa Malaz Kempinski welcomes you to enjoy Iftar and Suhoor throughout Ramadan in a truly palatial setting at the magnificent Palazzo Ballroom, daily from sunset till late. Guests will enjoy the multiawarded Levantine cuisine of Al Sufra, headed

by Chef Julien Al Khal, along with other delicious dishes inspired by Qatari and Middle Eastern specialities in a joyful atmosphere with world-class entertainment.

Iftar From sunset to 8:30 PM. Enjoy Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s Iftar together with family and friends.

Break your fast with a decadent buffet spread with live cooking stations and multiple cuisines from around the world for only QAR 240 per person.

Sohour From 9:00 PM until late. Marsa Malaz Kempinski’s Sohour is a regal affair. The exquisite buffet selection includes live cooking stations and offers multiple cuisines from around the world;

Sohour with their friends and colleagues, we offer private events of 30 people and more. Rewarding group discounts will definitely please you. For bookings and details, please call 4429 1111.

CHOICES Iftar Dinner.

On the holy month of Ramadan, enjoy a lavish Oriental dinner every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, with ouzi, cold mezzeh, shawarma, live mixed grill station, etc. from Iftar until 11:00PM for QAR 195 per person. Buffet includes local water, Ramadan juices, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea. Book 10 persons and get 1 Iftar for free.

Butcher’s Night Iftar Dinner: Every Tuesday, choose your size, your cut, your style and enjoy all you can meat! For QAR 220 per person. Buffet includes Ramadan juices, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea.

For inquiries and reservation, call 4445 5555 / 4445 5544.

Catch of the Day Iftar Dinner: Every Thursday, indulge in traditional Middle Eastern style seafood in a perfect family ambience. There is nothing like having a dinner buffet with grilled local fish, whole baked fish, seafood sayadiyah, etc. for just QAR 260 per person. Buffet includes local water, Ramadan juices, Arabic coffee and Moroccan tea.

AGORA Turkish Iftar From 6.30 PM to 8.00 PM. Break your fast in style with delicious Iftar at Agora and enjoy a special 4 course set menu, including soup, starter, main course and dessert for only QAR 160 per order. For inquiries and reservation, call 4445 5555 / 4445 5540.

AL NAFOURAH GARDEN LEBANESE RESTAURANT Iftar Set Menu Break your fast with selected cold, hot, main course & dessert at QAR 185 inclusive of water. Starting from Iftar time, top up with energizing mocktails starting from QAR 35. Book 5 persons and get 1 Iftar for free.

Sohour a la carte menu

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DOHA SEASONS RESTAURANT Let us bring you the spirit of Ramadan Embrace the spirit of the holy month with your family and friends at the Mövenpick Hotel Doha.

When the sun sets, break your fast at the Seasons restaurant with a generous Iftar buffet of traditional Arabic and international delights, including such beverages as Kamar Eldin, karkade, tamr hindi. Benefit from discounts when booking for 10 or more.

Price: QAR 100 per person.

Iftar time is extended till midnight.

Kids below 6 years - eat for free, 6-12 years get 50% off Corporate events and private catering For those seeking corporate celebrations, private Iftar or

Ramadan in our new Pergola: With the summer season and upcoming Ramadan, Oryx Rotana Doha opens to the public the newly pergola at Al Nafourah Garden. The venue is pulling out all the stops with its spectacular fountain view and a friendly welcoming environment. It offers a whole host of menus designed to mark your experience in style.

For inquiries and reservations, call 4402 3333.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA THE SHANGRI-LA TENT Embrace the spirit of Ramadan at Shangri-La Hotel, Doha’s signature Ramadan Tent. Located in the Shangri-La Ballroom, the tent seamlessly blends contemporary design with traditional Arabic touches.

Enjoy delicious traditional Arabic Ramadan dishes and an array of international favorites for a memorable Iftar and Sohour experience with family, friends or colleagues.

Iftar Retail Price Adult: QAR 200 per person Children from 6 to 12 years old: QAR 100 each Children below 6 years old: Free Private Dining (Gazebo): QAR 1,800 (for a maximum of 8 people) Beverages are included Sohour Starting from QAR 100 per person for adults and

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QAR 75 for children from 6 to 12 years old Free for children below 6 years old that are accompanied by parents Beverages are not included Private Dining (Gazebo): QAR 1,000 (for a maximum of 8 people) Privatization for Iftar and Sohour QAR 45,000 (additional charge of QAR 150 per person will be applied after 300 guests) Golden Circle Offer Golden Circle members will receive a 15% discount on Iftar and Sohour at the Ramadan Tent. For bookings and enquiries, please call 4429 5295 or email doha.dining@shangri-la.com.

Exclusive Corporate Iftar or Sohour options for company gatherings of 20 people or more are available upon request. Please call 4429 5000 or email sales.sldh@shangri-la.com for more information.

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA, A RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL AL DASHA AND AL SONBOK BALLROOMS Sihr Al Sharq (or Magic of the Orient) Ramadan Tent Sihr Al Sharq Ramadan Tent invites friends and families to experience unforgettable evenings filled with Arabian tradition. As dusk falls each evening, guests may enjoy a sumptuous buffet featuring an array of Ramadan favourites, the best of Middle Eastern specialities, authentic Qatari dishes, and a variety of International choices. The culinary team will entertain through interactive live stations serving juicy shawarmas, tender grilled meats, fresh seafood, hearty pasta, and other delectable offerings. For the perfect ending, guests may indulge on the decadent spread of traditional and contemporary sweets accompanied with Ramadan authentic beverages. As a local tradition, Oud players and an oriental live band will entertain guests at the majestic Sihr Al Sharq Ramadan experience.

Al Dasha and Al Sonbok Ballrooms comfortably accommodate approximately 400 guests in an elegant and enchanting atmosphere. For Shisha connoisseurs wishing to enjoy different tastes, over 25 tobacco varieties will be available throughout Iftar and Suhoor. Corporate hosts who wish to uphold the Arabic traditions of hospitality may treat customers and colleagues to a private Iftar event with a bespoke menu served in the elegant atmosphere of the Al Dasha and Al Sonbok ballrooms.

Timings and Prices: Iftar: Sunset to 8:00 PM for only QAR 225 per person (buffet) Sohour: 8:30 PM to 2:00 AM for only QAR 250 per person (buffet) SHISHA DIWAN AT AL QAREB II Daily, 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Suhour a la carte menu available.

AL JALSA LOBBY LOUNGE Daily, Sunset – 1:00 a.m.

Iftar and Suhour a la carte menu available.

For more details, contact the hotel at 4425 6666 or visit the website at http://www.ritzcarlton.com/ sharqvillage.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL SAHARA NIGHTS Ramadan is a time of tranquility and reflection, a time to connect with friends and family. Celebrate the holy month of Ramadan in the iconic and most recognized landmark of Qatar, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.

Experience the joys of Ramadan where we bring you the finest traditions in a setting of exquisite venues pairing intimate social gatherings and unparalleled culinary experiences.

Whether you are planning an intimate Iftar or Suhoor for family and friends or a corporate gathering in one of our venues, the arabesque settings at our Ramadan Tent and Al Hubara Restaurant offers the perfect venue.

Ramadan Tent Sohour From 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Witness the Arabesque paradise at our specially created Ramadan Tent at Al Majlis featuring delicious oriental & international cuisine with live cooking stations. Embrace the night with your loved ones and treat them to a special Suhoor in a joyful atmosphere with live entrainment.

Suhoor Buffet - including soft beverages, tea/coffee – QR 200 per person Suhoor Buffet - including hubbly bubbly, tea/coffee – QR 250 per person Al Hubara Iftar From 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Every day of Ramadan creates memorable experiences and our wide array of delicacies is just what you need to break your fast while sharing these memories. Join us in your favorite restaurant where you will be spoilt for choice from multiple cuisines around the world, featuring Qatari traditional cuisines and more!

Iftar Buffet - including soft beverages, tea/coffee – QR 225 per person ATRIUM LOUNGE From 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Continue your celebration of the holy month after the sun sets in Doha. Enjoy our wide variety of sweet and savory delicacies over casual conversations with our freshly roasted coffee, afternoon tea and other beverages.

You will be delightfully set to start your day of fast the next morning!

CORPORATE IFTAR We have carefully designed various menu options keeping your needs in mind for corporate or private Iftar and Suhoor. Host your corporate events in style and rest assured, whatever you choose you will keep coming back for more! *Available for minimum of 50 guests Iftar Menu I - QR 185 per person Iftar Menu II - QR 215 per person Iftar Menu III - QR 255 per person Suhoor Menu I - QR 205 per person Suhoor Menu II - QR 265 per person For reservations and inquiries call 4485 3000 or email F&Breservations.Doha@sheraton.com.

THE WESTIN DOHA HOTEL & SPA AWAKEN TO RAMADAN AT THE WESTIN DOHA This Ramadan, step through the doors of The Westin Doha’s Arabian Food Bazaar, inspired by the colors and patterns of the Arabian night skies.

Timings and Prices: Iftar: From sunset to 8:00 PM for only QAR 195 Sohour: 9:30 PM to 1:00 AM for only QAR 220 Corporate Packages: 50-99 Pax – QAR 185 per person 100-149 Pax - QAR 175 per person 150-199 Pax - QAR 165 per person Above 200 Pax - QAR 160 per person Private Majalis bookings available upon request Private Iftar and Suhur venues avilable for up to 600 pax.

For information and bookings, call 3359 8514, email dining.doha@westin.com or visit www.westindoha. com/ramadan.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES GREAT ROOM – SULTAN’S TENT Revive the traditions of Ramadan & experience the rich flavors, scents & sounds of the Holy Month at the Sultan’s Tent. Explore ‘A Taste from Qatar by Chef Nawal Al Sayed’, a dedicated station featuring the best of Qatari cuisine, or savor International & Middle Eastern gastronomy in 8 different live cooking corners for Iftar & Sohour Iftar Time: till 8:15 PM Iftar Price: QAR 230 per person Sohour Time: 9:15 PM – 2:00 PM Sohour Price: QAR 285 per person THE MAJLIS Embrace the spirit of Ramadan & get together with your loved ones this holy month at The Majlis.

Offering: A la carte shisha & Arabic mezze Time: 6:00 PM – 2:00 PM LIVING ROOM Operates from Iftar time till midnight offering complimentary dates, dry fruits and café Blanc For reservations or enquiries, please contact 4453 5385 or email bnfreservations. wdoha@hotels.com. For more information, please visit www.wcafedoha.com.

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SPORTS

Top Picks

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Get Fit Offer at Jaula Club

Upon Request. Looking for a place to town your muscles, lose weight or stay fit, Jaula Club Grand Hyatt Doha offer you a ranges of memberships and categories that can fit everyone needs. Exclusive offer: 30% off applied on 3 months membership 40% off on 6 months and 50% on yearly membership.

Valid until end of June. For bookings, please call 44481234.

EZDAN HOTEL Fitness Center

Daily. From 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Get in Shape and maintain health with our range of fitness classes.

June membership single offer QAR 3,999 and couples QAR 6,999 per year. For inquiries and reservations, call 4496 9346.

MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI Gym & Health Clubs

Upon Request. A state-of-the-art space with female-only and mixed fitness areas, the latest Technogym equipment, 2 fitness group studios, a personal training studio, male and female wet relaxation areas. For more information, contact 4035 5555 or spa.marsamalaz@kempinski.com or www.kempinski.com/marsamalaz.

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DOHA Ladies Gym

Upon Request. Ladies can join to our first Ladies Gym at The Horizon Club Gym. All facilities are for Ladies only, above 18 years old. Open from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM. For inquiries and reservations, call 4429 5000.

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SPORTS

PROPER POSTURE IT CAN Words by Daniel Matallana

Let’s keep it simple: how do you even pretend to have a relaxed and successful lifestyle if your whole body structure is crumbling to pieces? Along with overweight, bad posture is one of the widest-spread cultural obstacles we face on our path towards wellbeing.

LENGTHEN YOUR LIFESPAN! A

will help you cultivating a deeper awareness of your body whilst avoiding unnecessary health issues in the future.

In addition to contributing to overall wellness, posture is also a form of communication that reveals your degree of confidence and selfesteem. Why have we chosen to underestimate such a basic thing?

Longer spine, longer life!

Our sitting habits can have important effects on our overall health. In fact, they are as important as eating right, exercising, and getting a good night's sleep. Also, a healthy spine provides you with the appropriate vehicle to reach your goals whilst doing things with more energy and less fatigue. Take this as your new mantra: slouch less, grow more!

good posture is defined as the alignment of body parts in relation to one another at any given moment, involving a harmonious interaction between bones, muscles, connective tissue, joints and neurons.

Check out the following tips about posture that

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Take breaks and reach higher Get up and stretch frequently, at least every hour if you sit for long periods of time. Do not sit on your wallet since it can cause hip imbalance!

As opposed to what most people think, stretching is not just a dull pseudo-exercise for older people.

What if you changed your beliefs on stretching and transform this into a living metaphor of what you’re trying to achieve?

Think about reaching towards a goal. Feel your whole body expanding, making room for something new and better. Think about growth.

You can start with a simple exercise: look up, lift your arms and reach up as if you were trying to touch the ceiling; breathe deeply and alternate your hands while lengthening every vertebrae from your lower back up to the tips of your fingers. Better still if you’re outdoors - reach for the clouds!

Use your sitting bones (they’re there for a reason) Did you even know that you have two small bones under your buttocks that are perfectly designed to support your back? The main reason we slouch is because we have forgotten about them! As a result, our pelvis and lower back have gradually sunk into our chair.

The good news is you don’t have to go too far to change this habit: just take a look at how babies sit. They’re the best teachers of how to give weight down to the sitting bones while keeping the back straight and light. It’s time to re-discover and reclaim our anatomy!

Visualize your inner structure They say the body is the temple of the soul. Then why not keep this building spacious and clear of clutter? Take time to stop every once in a while and visualize your internal structures. Had you realized that your spine is the place where the mind-body connection occurs?

Research proves that mental imagery can have effects on our biochemistry. Can you visualize your spine as a splendid and solid architecture

with spacious gaps between each vertebrae? Why not take breaks to look out the window and find inspiration from the massive dignity of trees?

Overall effects of bad posture Because the long-term effects of poor posture can affect bodily systems such as digestion, elimination, breathing, muscles, joints, and ligaments), a person who has poor posture may often be tired or unable to work efficiently or move properly.

If the mechanics of your spine are not aligning properly, it can affect your rib cage, which can damage your heart and lungs, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Besides contributing to the normal functioning of the nervous system, good posture keeps your vital organs in the right position so they can function at peak efficiency.

Without good posture, your overall health and total efficiency may be compromised.

Limited mobility and poor balance A bad posture can significantly reduce your movement range, both in your lower and upper body. Plus, it has been proven that compressed vertebrae can lead to chronic back pain if not treated on time.

No wonder you’re having headaches!

When people slouch, their heads and shoulders come forward. Slouching also forces our jaws which creates unnecessary tension on our temples, forehead and eyebrows.

Nerve interference, aging, and lethargy Since the spine is the main pathway for our nervous system, a bad posture causes nerve interference. As a result, people with bad posture tend to respond slower to their environment which radiates a feeling of lethargy and apathy.

Plus, a bad posture will make you look older.

Exercise to improve posture There are many exercises that you can do to counter the effects of slouching, such as Pilates, yoga, and weight workouts that focus on the neck, shoulders, and back. Tightening and strengthening your core -- the muscles closest to the spine -- can also help improve your posture, making it easier for you to sit and stand up straight.

Plus, there’s nothing more empowering than standing up straight and speaking up! After all, having a straight spine was a key factor in human evolution. Perhaps it’s time to lengthen our spine and reclaim our humanity! Reach out to our team of wellness experts in Doha to increase the quality of your life and fast-track your evolution. n

Evolve Wellness L.L.C. Contact: Daniel Matallana, Holistic Wellness Coach Website: www.evolvemindbodysoul.com Email: info@evolvemindbodysoul.com Call: +974 5040 3234

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FASTING AND WELLNESS DURING RAMADAN:

A balancing act for success

Words by Evolve Founder Haitham Khalid and Holistic Wellness Therapist Farah Ahmed

With 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide preparing for the most important month of the Islamic year, the question is how to best prioritise and be the most productive during these timeconstrained hours? Here’s how to undergo fasting to receive spiritual and physical benefits.

Planning is key Fasting is a prophetically inspired way of detoxing not only the mind but the body. It has been shown to reset and regulate your digestion. Rather than negating these therapeutic effects through ill-informed choices, we can benefit from them by choosing the right ones.

Our physical wellness during this month is paramount. Our bodies need adequate sleep, food for nutrition, and strength through fitness for optimal performance. Fasting affects all of these and demands a change in our lifestyles.

Thoughtful eating and maintaining adequate fitness may be the last thing on your mind, yet ultimately they provide the stamina needed to determine success in this month.

So how do we fit all this in, you may ask? The prescription for success is planning ahead.

Eat right What you eat will dictate largely how you will fare the rest of the day. The food you eat has a huge impact on your energy levels and mood.

Make sure you eat souhour (the pre-dawn meal) which has much barakah (blessings) in it according to the sunnah (Prophetic tradition). This meal will also sustain you for the fast ahead,

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so choose high fibre or wholegrain foods where possible as these tend to be digested more slowly e.g. oats, brown rice, barley.

Iftar is the meal that breaks the day’s fast. This meal should include dates, again following the sunnah. Dates will provide a nourishing burst of much needed energy. Hydrating fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, berries, and figs to name a few, will also have a similar, revitalising effect.

Eat well, but avoid lavish meals that take time to prepare and even more energy to digest. Do not over eat, and do not be wasteful, as the Islamic tradition encourages.

endurance, and self-restraint. It is a time for resetting our intentions and modifying our actions. Fasting does not mean neglecting our daily routines entirely; rather, we are encouraged Focus on eating organic and nourishing whole foods such as fresh vegetables, greens, oily fish, poultry, and grains, and be creative with these.

Prepare wholesome soups and hearty salads. Eat foods that are not only halal, but tayyab (pure) as this is a time of spiritual and physical purity.

Avoid greasy, fried foods which put strain on your digestive system, and avoid processed and highsugar foods and canned drinks. These will result in a sharp drop in energy levels after the initial high, which will leave you feeling drained.

Make a food plan for the week. Plan your grocery shopping by making a list and sticking to it. Don't omit this because it may lead to buying junk food.

Stay hydrated Ensure you get adequate hydration. Drink at least two litres of water a day, not all at once but gradually during the non-fasting hours. Keep a bottle of water with you during taraweeh to sip on between units of prayer. Coconut water is great for hydration as it contributes to restoring electrolyte balance in the body. Try to reduce or eliminate caffeine which is a diuretic and stimulates water loss through urination.

If you don't normally “eat clean”, this is a great time to start. “Old habits die hard,” as the saying goes, but Ramadan is the prime opportunity to replace these with better ones. Our bodies have been given to us as an amanah (trust), so it is our responsibility to ensure they are adequately maintained, and we should find optimal ways to do this.

Exercising during Ramadan Ultimately, exercise is time- and energydependent - two of the things that are limited in Ramadan. One of the main reasons why some people tend to put on weight during Ramadan and not lose it is due to over-indulgence and not exercising.

As with all aspects of Islam, what is done in moderation is best. The same goes for exercise as it does for eating during this month. Ramadan is an ideal time to start a new exercise routine or to

let your body rest if you are exercising more than four times per week.

If you are exercising frequently, and especially if the intensity is high, then you can try different forms of (lower intensity) exercise which reduce the stress on your body whilst it is undergoing significant routine changes. Try jogging, walking, or a swim before iftar.

The best time to exercise is shortly after a light iftar or late in the evening once you have digested your main meal, but your trainer can guide you based on your physiology, routine, and type of training.

Key considerations before and after exercising are hydration and eating the right foods. If exercising before iftar, then make sure you stay out of the sun. Whatever the frequency, timing, or intensity of exercise, try to ensure your body has sufficient energy. Taking time to rest your body by taking a short nap (also a sunnah) before or after your exercise will be a good way to restore energy levels.

Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time requiring us to redirect our focus to the Creator. It is an opportunity to develop qualities of abstinence,

to continue with our usual activities, and therein lies the challenge of patience, stamina, and time management. Success is possible on an empty stomach. n Evolve Wellness L.L.C. Contact: Haitham Khalid, Evolve Founder / Farah Ahmed, Holistic Wellness Therapist Website: www.evolvemindbodysoul.com Email: info@evolvemindbodysoul.com Call: +974 5040 3234

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Top Picks

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA

BY ANANTARA Balance Wellness Centre Ramadan Offeriing

Upon Request. This summer indulge in our aqua treatment of Aemotio which has a combination of light, Vichy shower and heat therapy, which will exfoliate and hydrate your skin. Full body exfoliation & aemotio steam for 60 mins for only QAR 450. For inquiries and reservation, call 4040 5050 or email doha@anantara.com.

W DOHA HOTEL & RESIDENCES The HydraFacial™ at Bliss Spa

Upon Request. This Resurfacing procedure thoroughly cares for your skin, providing cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration all while Vortex-Fusing® antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. The HydraFacial™ is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. The procedure is immediately effective. For more information and bookings, call 4453 5555 or email bliss.doha@whotels.com.

GRAND HYATT DOHA HOTEL & VILLAS Ramadan at Jaula Upon Request. Get pampered this Ramadan. Indulge in an atmosphere of tranquility and discover the height of relaxation while benefiting from a 30% discount on treatments between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Pay 60 & Get 90: Take a retreat at Jaula Spa, reserve a 60-minute treatment and get an additional 30 minutes on the house! For bookings, please call 4448 1234.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL AL AZIZIYAH DOHA The Spa.

Daily. From 12:00 PM to 12:00 MN. The Spa offers six treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a fitness centre that features Technogym equipment, as well as separate male and female steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzi. For inquiries and reservation, call 4445 5530.

THE CURVE HOTEL Skinsation

Upon Request. From 11 AM to 8:00 PM. Female massage room and services, prices starting from QAR 220. For inquiries and bookings, call 4007 8888.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

FRASER SUITES WEST BAY

opens in Doha As told to Hairiya Santos Images by Jessie Palanca

The splendid 396-suite luxury property is ready to pamper guests in the heart of Doha, offering unprecedented business and leisure amenities.

F

raser Suites West Bay - Doha is part of the global Fraser Suites brand, offering serviced apartments characterised by touches of indulgence that evoke sophistication with rich textures and distinctive dĂŠcor that reflect the essence of the host city, Doha.

The interior is elegant, rich, and refined, designed by star Italian interior designer Matteo Nunziati who has incorporated the spirit of the local tradition in the floor design and decorative mashrabiya panels defined in the lobby.

The clean design lines of the space are accented with carefully chosen fabrics, furnishings, and

lighting in a luxurious mix of modern and traditional styles.

The property offers accommodation options for longterm and short-term stays, along with state-of-theart leisure and business amenities and gold-standard services. Studios spread over 43 square metres can comfortably accommodate two people while threebedroom apartments can accommodate up to six.

Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha offers a fine selection of outlets to cater to all guests’ needs. Choose from the executive Sky Lounge with its majestic views on the 35th floor; the signature restaurant The Social, featuring the best of authentic Western, Eastern, and Middle Eastern cuisine; and the Mashrabiya Lobby Lounge which is set to be a great destination for meeting friends and unwinding.

The hotel also offers world-class facilities including swimming pools for children and adults; roundthe-clock gym, kids club, reception, and concierge services; luxurious spa treatment rooms; and modern conference facilities.

This celebrated property is complete with superior Italian interiors designed by Molteni & Co. All studio-suites and apartments are well-appointed with separate living and dining areas enhanced by a fully equipped kitchen. Each distinguished residence

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is designed in harmony with today’s way of living and working.

This luxury hotel displays the unique photography artwork of popular local photographer, Khalid Al Muslmani, in the rooms and common spaces of the property, showcasing beautiful photographs of Qatar throughout its rich history.

The property also features the artwork of local visual artist, Fatma Abdullah Al Khalfani, who has created a combination of contemporary calligraphy and wall graffiti artworks displayed at The Social restaurant.

Gearing up for its soft opening, this impressive property launched its online booking service in March 2017 where guests and long-term residents had access to exclusive promotions and offers to celebrate the opening.

Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha is accepting official bookings and residencies contracts, with special rates on early bookings as well as great promotional packages.

For more information, please visit the website at http://westbay-doha.frasershospitality.com. n

About Frasers Hospitality Group Frasers Hospitality Group, the hospitality arm of Frasers Centrepoint Limited, is a global hospitality operator with gold-standard serviced hotel residences and boutique lifestyle hotels across North Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Middle-East.

Frasers Hospitality Group commits to “anticipate and exceed the evolving needs of executive travelers through continuous innovation” by providing its customers with space, family, and community away from home.

Conceived with the lifestyle preferences of today’s discerning business and leisure travelers in mind, Frasers Hospitality Group has three gold-standard serviced residences offerings – Fraser Suites, Fraser Place, and Fraser Residence; a modern and eco-lifestyle brand, Modena by Fraser; and a design-led hotel residence brand, Capri by Fraser.

The group also operates two brands of upscale boutique lifestyle hotels in key cities of UK, Malmaison and Hotel du Vin. For more information on Frasers Hospitality Group, please visit www.frasershospitality.com.

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THE CURVE HOTEL’S SKINSATION:

A PHILOSOPHY OF CARE Words by Hairiya Santos Images by Jessie Palanca

Looking to make your muscle pain and stress vanish? Opt for one of the best known traditional massage treatments, the Swedish massage at The Curve. QH sends Editorial Coordinator Hairiya Santos to try their classic massage offering.

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T

here is a great number of massage therapies and wellness centres in Doha, offering a single service or a combination of wellness and spa techniques and treatments.

But if all you need is the traditional and classic massage focusing on the basics of bodywork up and not the “top-ups”, then The Curve Hotels’ Skinsation Swedish massage is highly recommended.

A stressful workweek calls for some self-care It had been a long and tiring week for me, and I was feeling the tension building in my body. Coming from a hectic production week at the office, I thought a relaxing spa would be just what I needed to calm my nerves.

The Curve Hotel offers massage services through its Skinsation facility. Their therapies, rituals, and packages are designed to soothe, rejuvenate, and purify the mind and body.

A simple space focuses on the client’s needs The Skin Sation centre is simple and calming. It’s not big and overwhelming, and you can sense a soothing aura. The light is calming, the aroma and the ambiance comforting. The décor is not excessive and there are no winding corridors to get lost in.

After reaching a massage room, I prepared for the treatment. At first, my mind was still awake and racing even as I lay down on the massage bed.

Making sure the room temperature was comfortable, Rawia, who also happened to be my therapist, began her magic.

With a brief muscle stretch at first to warm up my body, she kneaded my back down to the thighs, legs, and feet. Then she did the front with the right pressure and angle suitable for my body type.

I arrived there on a hot Saturday afternoon. Feeling a bit nauseated and irritated, I felt a sudden lift of mood as soon as I entered the hotel. I found the place very welcoming. This is one of the hotels in Doha where almost everyone is smiling sincerely at you. I felt at peace already.

When I asked a staffer for the location of Skinsation, she did not just point the direction, but brought me there, where we were greeted by another staffer who immediately attended to what we needed.

A few minutes later, Rawia, the recreation manager, came and escorted us to the massage rooms, which are placed strategically near the gym and pool for easy access after sports activities.

I was with our photographer, who without any hassles, was able to maneuver across the rooms and take a number of shots of the area, speaking to the warm accommodation we received at the hotel.

Rawia and I discussed the details of the treatment as I filled out the usual data sheet required for a guest’s safety.

Another component of a relaxing massage is the use of a gentle oil with a soothing scent. Skinsation uses Charme D’Orient, a sweet vanilla-scented massage oil good for moisturizing and relaxation.

I slowly succumbed to the relaxing tempo of the massage. I didn’t even notice that 60 minutes had passed – a time which is not too short nor too long for this type of massage.

I am a fan of great spa treatments. I have tried several, but for me, as I have proven time and again, having a good basic Swedish massage is still simply the best.

Skinsation – a must-try for the stressed My over-all experience at Skinsation was impeccable. Massage-wise, it exceeded my expectations. I felt pampered without too much icing on the cake.

Unlike some other spas, Skinsation provides a no-frills space, no overly decorated and scented rooms, no lighted candles, just quality service that delivers what it promises.

Double thumbs up.

Take it from me, Skinsation can provide you with soothing care and relief delivered by professional seasoned therapists whilst pampering your senses with organic products for one-of-a kind treatments that meet your particular needs. n

I appreciated that she regularly asked if the pressure was right and adjusted the weight accordingly; I didn’t want to go out of the centre feeling more tired and heavy than expected, as with some other massages.

What makes a great massage?

For me, the secret of Swedish massage lies not only in the pressure of the massage itself, but also in the gradual deep movement of the hands rubbing and squeezing the body. Rawia’s control of her hand motions was perfect.

Book an appointment and experience Skinsation: Tel: +974 4007 8888 Website: www.ezdancurve.qa Email: enquiry@ezdancurve.qa Facebook: facebook.com/thecurvehotel

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The Adventure Chronicles:

Words and Images by Francesca Cruz

QH Travel writer Francesca Cruz takes us on a whirlwind trip spanning several continents on a quest for history, mystery, and… pizza?

SEEING SEVEN WONDERS IN TWO YEARS “

The human soul always strives to prove itself worthy and able” is what I jot down as the train chugs to a slower speed and the soft clanking of silverware grows silent. The conductor announces our arrival in the next 10 minutes. This leaves ample time for a last stab at my chocolate cake, licking the frost off my teeth while glimpsing at the Urubamba River. Caressing the kelly green velvet seat that makes for my booth, and grasping for my tote, I retrieve the crumpled piece of paper tucked into the side pocket of my bag.

There is my checklist. Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Chichén Itzá in Mexico, The Great Wall of China in Beijing, Petra in Jordan, the Colosseum in Rome—and this one, my sixth of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu in Peru.

My soul takes delight in this new accomplishment. I set this quest to prove to myself I could do it, and do it alone. I wanted as well, to inspire others to reach beyond any horizon--even past the stars. I never thought this all possible.

Just as I never thought it possible to hike with my mom the 220 steps it takes to get to Christ the Redeemer. This was a year before her stroke. We took our time, savored every step and every drop of sweat that came with it. And as we reached the foot of the enormous statue, we sobbed in unison.

It took us hours, but we scaled it and embraced our accomplishment.

And while on timetables -- just about an hour is what it takes to get from Mérida in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula to Chichén Itzá, the second of the wonders I visited. What I remember most is how desperately hot it was—blistering would describe it best. Seconds upon my arrival, a bus of Japanese tourists descended. All of them holding open hot pink parasols—a sea of fuchsia against limestone rock.

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Just as in Petra, my heart now pounds out of my chest, and my body jolts as I make my way up to the highest peak among the clouds to look down on Machu Picchu. The elevation is heavy on the body, so lots of water, altitude sickness pills, and a tranquil disposition are a must.

I have to rub my eyes and look twice.

I still can’t believe I made it this far.

I’m aglow.

From Mexico, my travels take me next to Beijing and the third historical landmark of the series. Built in the 7th century B.C., the Great Wall of China runs 13 miles long and consists of many enclosures and fortifications. Erected to prevent incursions from barbarian nomads, it is one of the most impressive architectural feats in the world, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It’s an hour and half drive from Beijing to reach the wall. I highly recommend booking an experienced tour group like Viator or Beijing Hikers.

Hydrate well; it’s a taxing hike with steep steps and inclines.

The most challenging part of the wall is the Jiankou section, and the most appealing is the Jinshanling entrance.

From China, I catch my bearings for a month back home in Miami, and then I’m off to the Rose City in Jordan. Floored and mystified is how I would describe coming around the Siq, the bend after the main entrance, and catching sight of The Treasury, Al Khazneh. It is the most famous edifice in Petra—as opposed to being constructed, it was carved into the stone.

I can’t say the same for the Colosseum in Rome. Not that this marvel wasn’t impressive. On the contrary, it was epic. The perplexity at hand was my obsession with a pizza joint just around the corner from my hotel. On the simmering hot day of my visit, I ate far too many pizza pies. Three, if you must know. Ok, maybe it was four.

Two hours into the tour, when the guide described in grotesque detail how losing gladiators got torn to shreds when thrown to the ravenous lions, my gut began to grumble. The sun bore down on my platinum head, my sight blurred. I was so nauseated I had to cut the tour short for fear I’d throw up on the fellow tourists. Lesson learned -- avoid gorging on pizza when it involves stories of gladiators told on hot summer days in Rome.

Every Wonder and accompanying experience has been singular and marked by uniqueness—from exaltation to regurgitation. Each one is essential to the story and adds to the sense of accomplishment.

I wrote this article in portions. The process has taken two years of my life. After seeing Machu Picchu, I returned to Miami to recalibrate and prepare for the closure of this long adventure.

I have left the Taj Mahal last for a reason.

It is a monument built by emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 in honor of his favorite wife in the name of eternal love. It looks luminous with the sun beaming down on it, a perfect postcard. I close my eyes and make my wish for true love, inspired by the beauty of this place. I left the Taj Mahal last because that is what I seek most in life right now. I wish for true love.

I hope my whirlwind has inspired you. I can’t fathom how to top this one, but seeing every continent could be next on the horizon. Whatever it might be, may it unfold in the company of love.

It is true; an adventure shared has far more meaning than when you go it alone. May the next one be as exciting as this quest has been, and goodness, may it not involve pizza. n

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The Dish On Qatar Reflect, relish, rejoice Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is also one of the five pillars of Islam and during this time, etiquette and culture in Qatar are more observed. Faith, self-reflection, charitable deeds, and religious observance are also strengthened during this time. Whether you’re new or have been a while in Qatar, learning the basic Ramadan etiquettes is highly recommended.

Words by Carmela Yao

B

efore moving to Qatar, I really had no idea how the Holy Month was observed.

I’d been hearing exaggerated dos and don’ts but when I came to experience it, I couldn’t wait for Ramadan to come again.

Why? Because everything slows down during the Holy Month: night becomes day, working hours are shortened, and people are taking a step back and reflecting on what is more significant to them.

During my first Ramadan in Doha, I was given some useful advice that I will also share with you.

Let’s start with the greetings. Say “Ramadan Kareem” which means “Have a generous Ramadan” and “Ramadan Mubarak” which is “Have a blessed Ramadan”. It will surely brighten someone’s day.

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Out of respect for the season, we should dress appropriately: wear long sleeves, long pants or skirts or loose fit dresses, and check your necklines as well or simply cover up from shoulder to knees. This goes for both men and women. Avoid public displays of affection.

This way, we are leaving people with good thoughts. Let us also respect the time of peace and avoid playing loud music at home or in cars.

Now we go to fasting. Most Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. In fasting during the day, observing Muslims refrain from food, drinks, cigarettes -- the list goes on. For people who smoke, this is the best time to quit. There’s a tendency that they will get moody, just be considerate.

But why do you think they fast? According to my Muslim friends, there are many reasons

and the main one is they fast in order for them to value the things they have that many people around the world doesn’t have, like food on the table.

Let us also avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public areas. And in work places, let us be mindful of food aromas. Since working hours are shortened, why not join in the fast? This way, we can also appreciate and be thankful of all the things that we have and at the same time, we’ll gain some knowledge on Muslim culture.

After fasting comes iftar which means “breakfast” or “breaking of the fast”.

Sometimes you will receive invitations for iftar; don’t decline, experience it. This is the time of appreciation and catching up but don’t go empty-handed. A small token of gratitude like dates, chocolates, and candies are well appreciated.

One thing to be careful of is the rush before iftar. It would be best to not be on the road during this time since everyone who is fasting is in a rush to go to prayers or get home and break their fast. So be patient and wait at least an hour.

Even if it is the Holy Month, there are still plenty of activities going on especially at night. There are plenty of hotels offering buffets for iftar and souhour (the meal before fasting starts in the morning). You’ll be amazed at the beautifully decorated Ramadan tents.

There are also series of events in Katara Cultural Village and the most famous is the Garangao.

If you have kids, Garangao is a great way for them to get acquainted with the culture. After breaking the fast on the fourteenth night of Ramadan, children are dressed up in their local clothes with specially designed bags hanging loosely from their necks. They will go door-todoor singing the Garangao song, knock on their neighbor’s door, and ask for their sweet treats.

This solemn month comes around only once a year. So let us all come together both locals and expats in supplication, reflection, and celebration.

In behalf of the Qatar Happening family, we wish everyone a blessed Ramadan and a joyous Eid Al Fitr..n

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ALFARDAN SPORTS MOTORS LAUNCHES DRIVING SAFETY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FOR YOUTH 2017 IAAF DIAMOND LEAGUE SEASON KICKS OFF IN STYLE Thomas Röhler throws second furthest javelin distance in history Doha once again kicked off a successful IAAF Diamond League season with a thrilling night of outstanding athletics that created a phenomenal atmosphere inside Qatar Sports Club.

The eighth successive Doha Diamond League meeting saw three meeting records broken and six world lead times set as multiple Olympic and World Champions came together for the first time since last summer’s Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Dr Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, president of the Qatar Athletics Federation, commented: “Our ambition in the run up to the Doha Diamond League was to raise the bar once again and organise an exceptional event.

“To us this meant bringing the excitement of athletics to new audiences, inspiring young athletes and continuing to develop our sport to even greater levels across Qatar and the Middle East.”

The highlight of the night came when Germany’s Thomas Röhler threw 93.90 to achieve the second furthest javelin distance in history in his opening competition of the season, breaking the IAAF Diamond League record in the process, and begging the question of whether he can break Jan Zelezny’s 11-year-old world record of 98.48 this year.

Alfardan Sports Motors, the official dealer of Ferrari and Maserati in Qatar, launched a first-of-itskind safety drive across schools in Qatar to raise awareness on the perils of speeding.

Revered for their lineage of the world’s fastest cars, the two iconic automotive brands reaffirmed their commitment to safety by spearheading a pioneering initiative that aims to foster a culture of responsible driving among the nation’s youth.

The safety drive kicked-off at the Global Academy International where representatives hosted a comprehensive interactive session in which they presented thought-provoking facts and figures on the rising occurrences of traffic incidents.

According to the annual statistics shared by Qatar’s Traffic Department, speeding was reported as the key cause of road deaths in 2016 with an average of 4564 violations per day. Despite celebrating the passion for speed on the racetrack for years, students were encouraged to place safety above thrill at all times when on the road.

The safety drive was initiated in line with the 33rd GCC Traffic Safety Week. Alfardan Sports Motors is committed to delivering a world-class brand experience by inspiring customers to follow road safety practices.

BOOM SUPERSONIC ARRIVES IN QATAR Supersonic flight the next step in GCC aviation leadership Boom recently introduced its supersonic passenger airliner as well as the XB-1 Supersonic Demonstrator at a press conference held recently at the Four Seasons Hotel, Doha.

The commercial aircraft will connect the GCC to the rest of the world with flights up to 2.6X faster than conventional airliners. For example, a flight from Doha to Sydney which takes 14 hours today will take just 8 hours and 25 minutes flying supersonic. Similarly, Doha to New York will be 7 hours and 25 minutes versus 13 hours and 55 minutes today.

Based in Denver, Colorado, Boom Supersonic uses state-of-the-art aerospace technologies to deliver a revolutionary speedup in travel. Compared to the Concorde, designed in the 1960s, Boom will be 80% less expensive to operate—leading to affordable tickets for passengers and profit opportunities for airlines.

Key technologies for supersonic include carbon fiber composites, advanced aerodynamics, and modern turbofan jet engines. These technologies combine to enable an airplane faster than the Concorde, yet quiet, efficient, and comfortable for passengers.

Blake Scholl, Boom Founder and CEO, said: “Qatar has one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines which leads the world in travel experience. We are delighted to bring in innovative transportation technologies and introduce Boom to Qatar where tourism is burgeoning. Supersonic will make the corners of the globe more accessible to travellers and give them more of the luxury they value most - time.

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BRIDGEWATER CHOCOLATE INTRODUCES CUSTOMIZED GRADUATION GIFT BOXES Turning every moment into a celebration, Bridgewater Chocolate, the award-winning American chocolate brand, celebrated the Class of 2017 with special graduation gift boxes last May. Discerning shoppers can choose from over 40 delicious flavors and a personalized message to show how proud they are of their loved one’s achievements. They can thank well-wishers or congratulate fellow classmates with Bridgewater Chocolate’s variety of delicious treats, including chewy caramels wrapped around a selection of nuts, a mix of milk and dark chocolates, buttery toffees, and fruit-based treats.

Located at Grand Avenue -The Avenues, Bridgewater Chocolate is all about passionately handcrafted, American-style chocolates prepared using European-quality ingredients and recipes. Each creation is unique, made using the finest ingredients including high quality cocoa and cocoa butter.

To find out more about Bridgewater Chocolate and to stay up-to-date with the latest products and news, follow them on Facebook and Instagram @BridgewaterChocolateME. For enquiries, call (+974) 4452 9039.

CENTRO CELEBRATES ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY Centro Capital Doha, Rotana’s fourth hotel in Qatar, celebrated its first anniversary with pomp and show.

In its first year of operations, the hotel has successfully established its position on the map of the hotel and tourism industry in Qatar as an address for distinct accommodation in a contemporary environment at affordable rates.

CITY CENTRE ROTANA’S TEATRO RESTAURANT OFFERS BUSINESS LUNCH City Centre Rotana Doha recently announced the launch of its Business Lunch at its specialty and signature restaurant, Teatro.

To meet the growing demand of a new generation of travellers and businessmen seeking exclusive accommodation, finesse, and functionality at reasonable rates, Centro has added 229 keys to the local booming hospitality sector.

On this occasion, Mr. Luca Medda, General Manager of Centro Capital Doha, said: “Today we celebrate the first anniversary of Centro Capital Doha. During this short period, we were able to take a prominent position in the local hospitality sector thanks to the high level of service provided by our team to meet the expectations of travellers from both local and regional markets.”

The Business Lunch is available weekdays Sunday to Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., and features three specially crafted three-course set menus for diners to choose from.

Starters on the menu include traditional Japanese miso soup, vegetable spring rolls, Caesar salad, and crispy California rolls. Main course items include Penne Arrabiata, Szechuan Beef Tenderloin, and Butter Chicken; and for the perfect dessert finale, diners can choose between the signature Dulce de Leche and Banana Wontons and the Vanilla and Coconut Gelato.

“We are delighted to launch our Business Lunch at Teatro, which recently received the award for Best International Restaurant,” remarked Martin Kendall, the hotel’s general manager.

“With a highly creative menu, excellent service, and a competitive price point, I believe Teatro will become a destination of choice for the business community in Doha, particularly those based in the West Bay areas who looking for quality lunch options.

NEW FORD F-150 RAPTOR HANDLES EXTREME DRIVING CONDITIONS The all-new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor features six terrain modes designed to handle the most demanding terrains.

From off-road rock crawling and desert running to on-road sport mode, Raptor is ready for any type of driving with these modes: Normal, Sport, Weather, Mud/Sand, Baja, and Rock Crawl.

Along with the individual AdvanceTrac settings tied to drive modes, Raptor continues the Ford Performance tradition of allowing the driver to programme the system’s settings to match conditions and skill level.

The driver can reduce traction control but keep stability control on with a single press of the electronic stability control button; or, by holding the button for five seconds, the driver can turn AdvanceTrac settings off.

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FRASER SUITES WEST BAY - DOHA RECEIVES QTA’S FIVE STARS Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha recently announced it received five-star hotel recognition from the Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA).

The now-five-star property which opened last month offers outstanding hotel and leisure facilities to stamp its mark as an amazing residential and travellers’ destination.

In keeping with the country’s commitment to provide premium tourism offerings as part of its 2022 national vision, Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha numbers amongst the top leading international hotels in Doha offering impeccable standards of quality and service.

QTA recognised Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha for its world-class facilities, first-rate serviced suites that are one of the largest in Qatar, and extensive business and leisure amenities nestled in an excellent location in the heart of the capital of Doha, boasting breathtaking panoramic views of the city's skyline and the stunning blue waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Sushil Sharma, General Manager of Fraser Suites West Bay – Doha, commented: “We are pleased and honored to be recognized by Qatar Tourism Authority as a fivestar property for our exceptional business and leisure amenities as well as highly-qualified staff with outstanding levels of proactive service and customer care.

“The opening of Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha marks a new generation of hospitality projects driven by Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The biggest driver for hotel rooms in Qatar is currently the demand from business tourists, both regional and international, and this is where Fraser Suites West Bay - Doha excels in its offering.”

SHAWKY PREMIERES LATEST FILM AT MATHAF Internationally acclaimed Egyptian artist Wael Shawky returned to Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art for the regional premiere of his latest film, Al Araba Al Madfuna III (2015-16).

The film, which was commissioned by Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, under the leadership of Qatar Museums’ Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, was screened at the museum last May 3.

It is the third in the series Al Araba Al Madfuna (2012-2016), created by Shawky.

Following the 25-minute screening, Shawky had a conversation with Mathaf Director Abdellah Karroum to discuss the film and his artistic research on the Gulf project as part of his residency at Mathaf since 2016.

NASSER BIN KHALED AUTOMOBILES SUCCESSFULLY BACKS PROJECT QATAR 2017 Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the authorized general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, sponsored the 14th Project Qatar Exhibition which took place from May 8 to 11 at the Doha Convention and Exhibition Center.

For the second year in a row, NBK Automobiles was the official transport partner of the international exhibition and supplied a fleet of luxury cars that transported the VIP guests to and from the exhibition, providing the best transportation solutions to one of the largest and most important events in Qatar.

The company’s partnership with Project Qatar reiterates its commitment to the Qatari community by way of supporting the national economy and events that promote Qatar and enhance its position in the region.

JAIDAH AUTOMOTIVE HOSTS CHEVROLET COMPLETE CARE SESSION

BAYT.COM, TALENTERA TALK RECRUITMENT WITH QATAR’S LEADING COMPANIES

Chevrolet’s One Hour Service aims to boost customer convenience Jaidah Automotive, Chevrolet's exclusive dealer in Qatar, and Chevrolet's regional team of Customer Care and Aftersales held an insightful, entertaining session featuring the Chevrolet Complete Care program.

The session, held recently at the Chevrolet showroom and Quick Service Center in Salwa Road, featured a discussion on the One Hour Service scheme which guarantees that customers can have their Chevrolet serviced in one hour or less.

Present at the event were Mr. Khalid Samir, Director of Operations at Jaidah Automotive, and Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Zaher, Regional Operations Manager, Customer Care and Aftersales for Chevrolet, along with other representatives from both ends.

Mr. Abdel-Zaher gave a presentation explaining that Chevrolet owners in the Middle East have access to the brand's Complete Care program, which means scheduled maintenance takes only an hour, and they are guaranteed an appointment within two days.

Attendees learned about the processes of the Chevrolet Complete Care program and how it assures convenience and peace of mind to Chevrolet customers.

Guests experienced a coffee barista workshop and a chance to learn how to make latte art in the hour a Chevrolet car was undergoing service.

Qatar Talent Acquisition Technology (QTAT) offered the latest insights and practices for talent recruitment and management Bayt.com, the Middle East’s number one job site, and Talentera, talent acquisition and applicant tracking software provider, held an employer leadership event to reveal the latest talent recruitment tools and practices last month at The Shangri-La Hotel Doha.

The event included a panel discussion to address the digital landscape for recruitment with regards to the latest technologies and the most effective strategies.

The panellists included Tia Prang, Director of HR, Gulf Warehousing Company; Dr. Junby Layaoen, HR Strategy and Talent Manager, QNBN; and Tiago Costa, Country Operations Manager, Adecco.

The event also included plenary sessions on how to drive digital transformation and operational excellence for recruitment by process automation, and how to increase the productivity and efficiency of recruitment teams.

QTAT 2017 concluded with an award ceremony recognising companies and organizations that successfully utilize Talentera technology to enhance the talent acquisition process and contribute to the health of the job market in Qatar by creating jobs, engaging successfully with communities, and matching talent with opportunities.

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JOSOOR INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES NEW BRAND IDENTITY Josoor Institute announced the launch of a new brand identity to reflect the expanding services and capabilities it offers, including research and consultancy divisions.

The new brand was revealed as part of the second block of its highly successful professional certificates and diploma programmes.

Josoor Institute is a center of excellence that is inspired and developed by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. It serves as a catalyst for building the sports and events industries across the region with the purpose to provide education, training, and development opportunities to the professionals in the sports and events industries.

The launch of the new brand represents a new chapter for Josoor Institute and comes as part of its commitment to diversify its offerings and act as a catalyst for the transformation of the sport and events industries in the region while setting new standards globally.

Josoor Institute’s new identity retains a strong common thread with the old identity. The design maintains some of the visual elements of the old brand as well as maintaining the various shades of blue. The vibrant colours within the new brand identity provide a distinction for each of Josoor Institute’s business divisions that now include Education, Research, Consultancy, Membership, and Knowledge Hub. True to the meaning of its corporate name - josoor means “bridge” in Arabic - Josoor Institute is bridging the knowledge gap in the region by equipping talents with the tools they need to advance in the sports and events industries.

For more information about registration and timings for upcoming programmes, interested delegates are encouraged to visit www.josoorinstitute.qa or contact delegate@josoorinstitute.qa.

JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI UNVEILS LAVISH FIVE-BEDROOM ROYAL RESIDENCE The perfect playground for the extraordinary traveller is officially open for bookings Step inside the Royal Residence at Jumeirah Vittaveli and discover the ultimate beachfront retreat. Designed for families and groups of friends looking for the ultimate in luxury, this stunning residence offers five bedrooms extending across 3,500 square meters of pure tranquillity.

Cocooned in a Maldivean-style hideaway, the Royal Residence has two private swimming pools overlooking the private residence beach, and a dedicated island grill restaurant that offers live cooking and teppanyaki style cuisine set atop a dhoni-shaped deck.

Guests can also dine in the opulent dining room or relax in the sunken lounge which is surrounded by a fragrant lily pond and has its own overwater bar and sundeck.

Amit Majumder, General Manager, said: “I wanted to create an entirely unique, yet indulgent concept for our guests at Jumeirah Vittaveli. For the last five years we have continuously added new facilities to the resort. Now that we have crossed the five-year milestone, we want to present something spectacular.

“The design elements of the Royal Residence are made even more opulent, its space and layout is second to none. Guests will enjoy unrivalled privacy with a totally personalised service, while enjoying access to the activities and facilities that our award-winning resort offers.”

To book please call +960 664 2020 or email JVMRoyalResidence@jumeirah.com.

MARINA HOME ESTABLISHES STORE IN DOHA Iconic home furnishings brand Marina Home opened its first Qatar showroom at the Mall of Qatar.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Tawar Al Kuwari, Vice-Chairman of Qatar Chamber, members of the retail industry, developers, interior designers, and members of the media.

The official opening ceremony was inspired by the Golden Age of Arab and international art and cinema that was known for pushing the boundaries of creativity.

The event featured a series of activations that reflected the intricate craftsmanship that goes into producing Marina Home’s pieces, including candle carving and calligraphy.

Commenting on the new opening, Marina Home Co-Founder Khurshid Vakil said: “The Arab world is historically known for being a global hub of art and culture and Marina Home is the product of that rich heritage, having been established in Dubai in 1997.

“We are extremely proud to launch our flagship store in Qatar, a market that is continuously evolving and whose consumers are known to proudly support brands that stem from the region.”

The 2,500-meter square showroom follows Marina Home’s concept of warehouses and welcomes its guests into a new realm of design, indulgence, and individuality where they get to see vintage and modern fuse into an unexpected harmony.

This unique concept has ensured Marina Home’s continued success across the eight markets where it operates including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Oman, and now Qatar.

QATAR AIRWAYS HOSTS MILITARY COLLEGE CADETS A batch of cadets from the Ahmed Bin Mohammed Military College recently visited Qatar Airways’ Doha headquarters as part of the airline’s Al Darb Qatarisation engagement activities.

A presentation by the airline’s onboarding team was given to the students, whose ages ranged from 18 to 20 years old, providing them the chance to learn about the aviation industry and Qatar Airways’ business and organisation model.

The airline’s Al Darb Qatarisation Programme was created in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 to help build a strong local workforce and create future leaders across a variety of industries in the country.

Al Darb provides tailored programmes that give young Qatari nationals the chance to choose the career path that they wish to follow, allowing them to gain experience in diverse work environments and experience a culture of innovation across many different disciplines.

Al Darb offers its students fantastic and fulfilling employment and training opportunities and helps them hone their skills in a professional working environment for a variety of career options, both at Qatar Airways and with strategic partners including Rolls Royce, Boeing, and Airbus.

The initiative is a hands-on project that seeks to train participants to apply what they learn in real-life situations, not just in Qatar, but in numerous locations across the globe.

The airline seeks ambitious, high-performing students and gives them the opportunity to gain work experience and groom them to become future leaders of Qatar Airways.

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ARTIST EBTISAM AL SAFFAR REVEALS HER PARIS RESIDENCY PAINTINGS IN NEW EXHIBIT Qatar Museums (QM) recently opened an exhibition by Qatari contemporary artist Ebtisam Al Saffar at the Doha Fire Station Artist in Residence space.

The exhibition celebrates the accomplishments of Al Saffar during her three-month Qatari Art Residency Program in Paris.

Al Saffar was the first artist to take part in the Qatari Art Residency Exchange Programme, organised under the patronage of QM Chairperson Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

The programme, which was hosted at the Qatar Studio at the renowned Cité internationale des Arts, Paris, France, saw Ebtisam travel to Paris for three months, occupy a studio space in one of the biggest and most important art residencies in the world, and interact with other talented artists from around the world.

Al Saffar‘s works in her exhibition focus on visual expressions of human faces and the expressive energy that they produce.

The artist has called her collection of paintings produced during her residency in Paris "What is Left in the Faces", as she believes that what remains in a facial expression after every experience that a human encounters does not end, but is instead transmitted from one generation to the next.

The Qatari Art Residency Programme is a recurring three-month residency open to all Qatari artists, and provides one lucky artist at a time a studio accommodation space and the chance to experience an art residency in Paris, visit museums and galleries, and be immersed in the art scene in the city. For more information, visit: http://www.firestation.org.qa/paris-art-residency-2017.

QTA AND UNWTO SIGN AGREEMENT TO HOST WORLD TOURISM DAY

Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently signed the official agreement through which Qatar will host the World Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations later this year under the theme “Sustainable Tourism – a Tool for Development”.

The event will be held on Sept. 27 this year under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

The agreement was signed by Hassan Al Ibrahim, QTA Chief Tourism Development Officer, and His Excellency Taleb Al Rifai, UNWTO Secretary General, on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market, the leading Middle Eastern travel and tourism event.

Qatar was selected to host the official WTD celebrations by a vote of the 21st UNWTO General Assembly, held in 2015 in Colombia.

EDUCATION MINISTRY, SASOL, AND FEC FETE WINNERS OF QATAR E-NATURE SCHOOLS CONTEST Under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Abdul Wahed Al Hammadi, Minister of Education and Higher Education, the Qatar e-Nature Schools Contest 2017 recently concluded with the final live round and awards ceremony.

In attendance at the event was Mr. Khalifa Saad Al-Derham, Director of Schools Affairs and the representative of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.

Sasol, the international integrated chemicals and energy company, and Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) celebrated the winners of the competition at the Westin Hotel in Doha, in the presence of government and civil society figures, teachers, students, parents, and media personnel.

The 2017 competition consisted of a series of interactive elimination rounds in which teams answered questions in order to gain points. This year, around 250 students representing 43 independent schools and 41 private schools from across Qatar participated in the fourth edition of the school’s contest.

QATAR AIRWAYS COMPLETES ITS ANNUAL EMERGENCY EXERCISE Qatar Airways recently marked the successful conclusion of this year’s emergency exercise dubbed Delta Oryx 2017.

The emergency simulation consisted of a crash site in the sea adjacent to Hamad International Airport (HIA). The planned emergency simulation is an annual procedure at Qatar Airways, initiated as a means of testing emergency facilities, in addition to ensuring that staff are well-prepared to handle and deal with the situation in the most effective manner.

The exercise was conducted with the coordination of more than 28 government agencies, stakeholders, and partners, including Hamad International Airport, Qatar Coastguard, Internal Security Forces, Qatar Navy, and the Qatar Emiri Air Force.

Delta Oryx 2017 incorporated the use of a 30-seater mock aircraft, two Qatar Airways aircraft chutes, 170 volunteer passengers, 60 volunteer family members and friends, 39 dummies to display casualties, 40 ambulance response vehicles, three military helicopters, five airport safety and security vehicles, and 10 Mowasalat buses.

Qatar Airways’ emergency management programme includes a Corporate Emergency Response Plan, an automated Crisis Management and Casualty Tracking System, a dedicated Group Emergency Control Centre, Group Emergency Management Team, Emergency Telephone Enquiry Centre, Special Assistance Centre, an Emergency Website, a Media Enquiry Centre, a Media Operations Centre and a Deployed Response Group that includes Special Assistance Team Members (Humanitarian Support Programme).

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US AMBASSADOR CONGRATULATES WINNERS OF 3RD ANNUAL YOUNG WRITERS COMPETITION The United States Embassy, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education of Qatar and Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar (VCUQatar), celebrated with the winners of the third annual Young Writers Competition held on April 19 at VCUQatar in Education City.

Nearly 300 essays were submitted for this year’s competition and the top five writers from each grade were recognized at Wednesday’s event. The winning entries will be featured in the Third Volume of the “Young Writers Journal” which will be published by the U.S. Embassy in July 2017.

U.S. Ambassador to the State of Qatar Dana Shell Smith congratulated all the students who participated in this year’s competition and commended the efforts of teachers for their invaluable support.

“I’d like to extend my gratitude,” she said, “to all the amazing teachers who make this program possible for their students. The work of teachers is so often overlooked and undervalued, but without them our societies would fail and our youth would never realize their full potential.”

She added that “the theme of this year’s competition – Shaping our World for the Better – speaks directly to the importance of education in shaping our world, and particularly our youth, for the better.”

Dean Akel I. Kahera of VCUQatar remarked: “We humbly appreciate Ambassador Smith and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education’s steadfast dedication to the Young Writers Program in its efforts to encourage Qatar’s youth to read, write, and think critically about important topics in society.

“In our eyes, all of the students are winners, and we champion each one of them in pushing towards their goals.”

VCUQATAR’S ART AND DESIGN TALENT SHOWCASED IN RECENT EXHIBITION

UAE-BASED RESTAURANT MANDILICIOUS OPENS IN QATAR

VCUQatar’s BFA + MFA Exhibition was an excellent way to discover the outstanding works of a new generation of art and design talent in Qatar.

Fans of the popular UAE-based Arabian restaurant Mandilicious have reasons to rejoice - the home-grown chain opened its first outlet in Qatar last month in Souq Al Suleiman on Salwa Road.

Qatari weddings, eradicating whitewashed beauty standards, and Paralympic training and recreational facilities were a few of the fascinating and involving exhibitions at the 2017 VCUQatar BFA + MFA Exhibition, which opened to considerable acclaim on April 29 at Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCUQatar).

As the latest outlet to join Doha’s diverse culinary offerings, the much-awaited restaurant is famous for its authentic slow-cooked Arabian cuisine served in a cool and chic ambience.

The exhibition, which ran until May 20, highlighted the impressive efforts of VCUQatar’s graduating students from the BFA and MFA degree programs. The works on display covered the graphic, interior, fashion design, and painting and printmaking disciplines.

In celebration of its opening in Qatar, Mandilicious launched a competition on Facebook and Instagram to give guests the opportunity to win special discount vouchers for the restaurant. Users can like and follow Mandilicious Qatar’s official pages and share their experiences at the restaurant using the hashtag #MandiQatar to enter the contest.

There was a large attendance on the opening day, with friends, families, and many others turning up for the event. The yearly exhibition is considered to be an avenue for discovering the outstanding works of a new generation of art and design talent in Qatar.

The launch of Mandilicious in Qatar was celebrated at an opening ceremony hosted in the presence of a number of VIPs including members of the local foodie community who were treated to Mandilicious’ signature dish Mandi, an aromatic succulent lamb traditionally cooked over hot embers on desert sands.

Guests were also given a glimpse at the restaurant’s other specialties including its aromatic soups, flavourful sahaweq, delicious tabeekh, and irresistible sweet Arabian deserts including kunafa.

Mandilicious Qatar is open seven days of the week from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. for lunch and dinner. For reservations and more information, please call 4490 5310 and follow MandiliciousQatar on Facebook and Instagram.

GALLER LUXURY BELGIAN CHOCOLATES NOW AVAILABLE AT THE TORCH DOHA Galler, the iconic Belgian chocolatier, followed the successful launch of its first Middle East boutique and tea room in the Mall of Qatar by checking in its range of gourmet chocolates into the opulent The Torch Hotel Doha.

The luxury five-star hotel has been the tallest building in Doha since 2007, with an exterior of 2,624 LED lights that come bring the building to life after sunset. The most iconic hotel in Doha is spread across 51 floors, consisting of 132 Deluxe Rooms, 24 Junior Suites, four Executive Suites, and three Diplomatic Suites, all offering a unique iPad in-room solution that serves as a navigation system for the entire room.

The Torch Doha has three distinct restaurants, among which is the only revolving restaurant in the whole of Qatar, the Three Sixty restaurant.

The confectionary pioneer will tantalize the taste buds of chocolate-loving guests and visitors to the hotel’s La Vida Lounge, a new relaxed dining outlet, where the carefully crafted and artistically designed Galler range will be the perfect complement to the selection of premium teas on offer.

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IT HAPPENED

HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, HH the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser takes part in the Convocation ceremony.

QATAR FOUNDATION CONVOCATION 2017 Qatar National Convention Centre, May 2, 2017

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HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the awarding ceremony of the Emir Cup 2017.

EMIR CUP 2017 FINALS Khalifa International Stadium, May 19, 2017

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MR. AHMED HASSAN BILAL, CHAIRMAN OF AHB TRADING & CONTRACTING WITH JAPAN AMBASSADOR TO QATAR H.E. SEIICHI OTSUKA Bilal Towers, May 18, 2017

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EXCLUSIVE AFTERNOON TEA BY MERYEM UZERLI Muy Vivo Restaurant, AlRayyan Hotel, Apr. 20, 2017

A GLAMOROUS EVENT BY MADLASHES Fifty One East, Lagoona Mall, Apr. 30, 2017 107

IT HAPPENED

11TH HEYA ARABIAN FASHION EXHIBITION Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, Apr. 28 - May 2, 2017

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ASPIRE ZONE’S ‘12TH PLAYER’ FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Aspire Zone, Apr. 2017

FIRST INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL Aspire Park, Apr. 25-29, 2017 109

IT HAPPENED

ECUADORIAN FESTIVAL Diplomatic Club, May 1-6, 2017

DIAMOND LEAGUE OPENER City Centre Mall, May 4, 2017 110

IT HAPPENED

QATAR AIRWAYS AVIATION EXPERIENCE AT KIDZMONDO DOHA Mall of Qatar, May 10, 2017

SACOOR BROTHERS STORE GRAND OPENING Doha Festival City, May 10, 2017 111

IT HAPPENED

MARINA HOME GRAND OPENING Mall of Qatar, May 10, 2017

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUMS DAY 2017 Bin Jelmood House, MDD’s Heritage Quarter, May 17, 2017

THE GRAB BAG WINNER Diplomatic Club, May 13, 2017 112

IT HAPPENED

FUN VILLE OPENING Ezdan Mall – Wakra, May 15, 2017

THE OPENING CEREMONY OF FRASER SUITES West Bay – Doha, May 15, 2017 113

IT HAPPENED

LA DONNA SPA & BEAUTY LOUNGE May 22, 2017

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PHONE DIRECTORY HOTELS Adagio Premium ApartHotel West Bay Al Gassar Resort AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Centro Capital Doha City Centre Rotana Doha Crowne Plaza The Business Park Diplomatic Club Doha Marriott Hotel DoubleTree by Hilton Four Seasons Mövenpick Hotel Al Aziziyah Doha The Grand Hyatt Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Marsa Malaz Kempinski Millennium Hotel Doha Millenium Plaza Doha Mövenpick Hotel Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha The Ritz-Carlton The St. Regis Doha The Torch Doha Warwick Doha W Doha Hotel & Residences Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Wyndham Grand Regency

4403-8888 4424-4881 4489 9000 4040-5050 4402 3333 4445-8888 4408-7777 4484 7444 4429-8888 4034 3333 4494-8888 4445 5555 4448-1234 4423-3333 4484-4444 4015-8888 4405-3333 4428 8888 4419-5000 4035-5555 4424-7777 4041 6999 4429-1111 4496-6600 4402-3333 4429-5000 4425-6666 4485-4444 4484-8000 4446-0000 4446-5600 4456 3333 4453-5000 4492-1555 4434-3333

AIRLINES

Air Arabia 4432-2111 Air France 4444-5101 American Airlines 4499-5737 Air India

4441-8423 British Airways 4432-1538 Cathay Pacific Airways 4445-8319 Delta Airlines 4483-0725 Egypt Air 4435-2901 Emirates 4438-4477 Etihad Airways 4436-6657 Fly Dubai 4422-7350 Gulf Air 4499-8000 Lufthansa German Airlines 4431-0212 Oman Air 4432-0509

Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Sri Lankan Airlines Turkish Airlines

4449-6666 4443-1431 4444-1217 4443-3027

HEALTH / BEAUTY Bay View 26, Wellness Centre 4496-6410 Bliss 4453-5555 Bottega Verde 4483-4535 Coiffeur Française 4468-9211 Dados Beauty Salon 4498-0033 Diva Lounge 4431-8488 Doha Dental 4431-7766 Doha Marriott Spa 4429-8520 Ebn Sina Medical 800-2288 Four Seasons Spa 4494-8801 Frank Provost 4494-8844 Glow American Salon, Salwa Rd. 4468-9945 West Bay 4411-7652 GoodLife Chemist City Center 4483-9100 The Pearl 4495-3876 Guerlain Alfardan Spa 4420-8660 Habibs Hair and Beauty Salon 4413-0672 Heavenly Spa 4492-1555 La Donna Spa & Beauty Lounge 4421 6555 La Cigale - Ozone Spa 4428-8888 Medical Spa Villaggio 4451-7590 Patrice Salon 4485-4012 Pure Spa 4424-7327 Ritz-Carlton Spa 4484-8173 Saray Spa 4419-5517 Six Senses Spa 4425-6999

TOURISM / TRAVEL Alpha Tours Ambassador Travel Arabian Adventures Cleopatra Travel Continental Tourism Darwish Travel World Wide Destination Fanar Travels Fox Transport Gulf Adventures Mosafer Travels Mowasalat Karwa Taxi Qatar Airways Holidays Qatar International Adventures Qatar International Tours Qatar Tourism & Exhibitions Authority Regency Travel & Tour Tourist Travel Bureau Victoria Car Rental

4434-4496 4445-7788 4436-1461 4443-9333 4462-2122 4441-8666 4467-1200 4441-3428 4462-2777 4422-1888 4432-0121 4458-8888 4449-6969 4455-3954 4455-1141 4499-7499 4434-4444 4443-5050 4466-6635

USEFUL NUMBERS Ambulance, Police & Fire Department Doha Clinic Hospital Emergency Hotline Al Ahli Hospital Hamad General Hospital Rumailah Hospital Pediatric Emergency Qatar Foundation For Child & Woman Protection Hotline Worldwide Emergency Numbe

116

999 4438-4333 4435-5999 4489-8000 4439-2222 4439-3333 4439-2948 4466-6671 112

Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

AHMED HASSAN BILAL GROUP REAL ESTATE Ahmed Hassan Bilal 4442-8877 Trad. & Cont. Co. www.ahbqatar.com INTERIOR Forum Design 4456-8716 RESTAURANTS Chowking Salwa Road 4437-1212 Chowking Al Khor 4411-8817 Chowking Dar Al Salam Mall 4486-6077 Chowking Holiday Villa 4411-5225 Harry Ramsden's World Famous Fish & Chips 4468-3231 FOOD SERVICE German Bakery Company 4442 8877 Coffee Planet 4442 8877 PUBLICATIONS ABODE/QH Magazines 4427-8416

SHOPPING Alfardan Jewellery 4440-8408 City Center Doha 4483-0582 Hyatt Plaza 4469-4848 Landmark Mall 4487-5222 Lagoona Mall 4433-5555 Salam 4448-5555 Villaggio 4413-5222 Virgin Megastore Villaggio 4413-5823 Landmark 4418-2245

EMBASSIES American Embassy Bahraini Embassy Brazilian Embassy British Embassy Canadian Embassy Chinese Embassy Egyptian Embassy French Embassy German Embassy Greek Embassy Indian Embassy Italian Embassy Japanese Embassy Jordanian Embassy Korean Embassy Kuwaiti Embassy Lebanese Embassy Nepalese Embassy Philippine Embassy Polish Embassy Russian Embassy Saudi Arabian Embassy South African Embassy Spanish Embassy Sri Lankan Embassy Turkish Embassy U.A.E. Embassy

4496-6000 4483-9360 4483-8812 4496-2000 4419-9000 4493-4203 4483-2424 4402-1702 4408-2300 4412-8150 4425-5777 4483-1802 4484-0888 4483-2202 4483-2238 4483-2111 4493-3330 4467-5681 4483-1585 4411-3230 4483-6231 4483-2030 4485-7111 4483-5886 4467-7627 4495-1300 4483-8880

Humanitarian Services Office (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies)

Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374

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59,000