Travel & Tourism

PAGE | 2 PAGE | 04 Hamad International Airport emerges candidate for Skytrax as cruise ‘World’s Best Airport 2020’ tourism hub

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Qatar a must-visit tourist destination

RAYNALD C RIVERA draws with even bigger prizes to be won, important aspects of the jewellery and around the world demonstrating the flair partnership with National THE PENINSULA in addition to entertainment for the watches industry featuring some of the in their craft to visitors as well as a host Tourism Council, ‘Qatar Live’ brought entire family. Shop Qatar’s previous edi- Who’s Who in the sector. of entertaining shows. global superstar Katy Perry, legendary he varied exciting events tions have distributed millions in cash Counting as another reason to visit In addition, visitors can also look band Maroon 5, international Latin lined up in the coming and car prizes to lucky winners. Qatar during this season is the Qatar forward to a number of events and activ- music star Maluma, international months make up some of There’s also the Doha Jewellery International Food Festival (QIFF) which ities for the yet to launch Qatar- music legend Cheb Khaled and the the reasons why visitors and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), which showcases the vibrant culinary scene of Year of Culture scheduled to begin Middle East region’s most famous should choose Qatar as is considered one of the largest and the country and the diverse menus sometime next month. music stars Fahad Al Kubaisi, Yara, their winter destination. fastest-growing luxury exhibitions in offered by its ever-growing hotels, res- There’s more to look forward to Omar Al Abdallat, Ibrahim Dashti, and TAmong the much anticipated events the region and one of the longest taurants and cafes (HORECA) sector. for visitors in Qatar after the success Rahma Riad on Doha stage through a during the season is the fourth edition running in the country marking its 17th More and more hotels, restaurants of the recently concluded 24th Arabian series of concerts. of Shop Qatar- the ultimate nationwide edition. and cafes are enriching Qatar’s culinary Gulf Cup Qatar 2019 and FIFA Club Electronic dance music (EDM) fans shopping festival which promises Running for about a week, DJWE landscape, dozens of which provide World Cup Qatar 2019 which wit- also enjoyed the Daydream Festival unbeatable promotions and unprece- sees hundreds of well-known luxury QIFF visitors’ taste buds a treat of their nessed sport fans from around the brought to Qatar for the first time fea- dented discounts for shopaholics. brands from around the world put on mouthwatering creations. world fly to Doha to watch the exciting turing some of the best DJs including Running for several weeks, Shop show their most exquisite collections of However, there’s more to QIFF than games, as well as ‘Qatar Live’ which Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Robin Schulz, Qatar is a real treat for bargain hunters fine jewellery and timepieces. sampling the varied cuisines on offer. provided a fantastic line-up of world- Sam Feldt, Matt Sochon, Wankelmut, with huge promotions in different shops Along with the exhibition are work- The festival also brings to the table more class music events. Afrojack, Lost Frequencies, Mark Knight, at participating malls coupled with raffle shops and talks for the public on features including celebrity chefs from Presented by Qatar Airways in Steff Da Campo, and Matt Sochon.

There’s more to look forward to for visitors in Qatar after the success of the recently concluded 24th Arabian Gulf Cup Qatar 2019 and FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019 which witnessed sport fans from around the world fly to Doha to watch the exciting games, as well as ‘Qatar Live’ which provided a fantastic line-up of world-class music events.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dr. Khalid Mubarak Al-Shafi

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS SUPPLEMENT COORDINATOR DESIGN Mohammed Salim Mohamed Sachin Kumar, Raynald C Rivera, Ahmed Eltigani Idris Abraham Augusthy Fazeena Saleem, Sanaullah Ataullah 2

Hamad International Airport candidate for Skytrax ‘World’s Best Airport 2020’

Currently holding the “Fourth-Best Airport in the World” and the “Best Airport in the Middle East” titles, HIA continuously works to improve all aspects of the passenger experience.

amad Interna- tional Airport (HIA) is set to participate in the pres- tigious annual HSkytrax World Airport Awards ceremony which will take place in Paris on the April 1, 2020 for which HIA is a can- didate for the ‘World’s Best Airport 2020’. The Skytrax World Airport Awards is the most respected accolade for the airport industry, voted by passengers in the largest annual global airport customer satisfaction survey. The awards ceremony will take place at the Pas- senger Terminal Expo 2020 (PTE), the world’s leading international airport con- ference and exhibition. HIA’s participation at the Skytrax Awards, which has seen the airport move up the ranks over the years, having moved from the fifth position HIA voted ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ at in 2018 to its current position as the fourth best airport in the world. Global Traveler Reader Survey Awards 2019 This accomplishment has been instrumental in recog- amad International Airport Fitness Center where they can take a dip nising HIA as the gateway to (HIA) has been voted as the in the 25-metre swimming pool, play Qatar and the world, putting “Best Airport in the Middle Hamad International squash or get a reviving spa treatment Qatar on the map as a desti- East” for the third consec- Airport (HIA) has received tailored to their needs. Housing over 20 nation of choice for utive year at the 16th Annual the “Best Passenger international art pieces for travellers to passengers. GlobalH Traveler’s GT Tested Reader Survey Experience Initiative” enjoy and be intrigued by, HIA also reg- HIA’s success at the Awards in Los Angeles. The award rec- silver award at the Future ularly transforms into an innovative stage Skytrax World Airport Awards ognizes airports across the world for out- Travel Experience (FTE) for different forms of art and hosts activ- is also important in setting HIA standing performance in providing an Asia Awards 2019 in ities at the terminal for travellers to apart from other airports and exceptional experience to travellers. The Singapore on November interact with and create memorable in giving a lasting impression Global Traveler’s awards are highly sought 12 in recognition for the experiences. of Qatar’s modern, smart and after and respected as an unbiased second phase of its Smart HIA has also recently revealed its quality standard of living while reflection of the best in travel through an Airport Program. The FTE plans for its airport expansion with a spec- celebrating Qatar’s heritage open-ended reader survey. awards celebrate airports tacular 10,000 sqm indoor tropical and culture. HIA is a diverse lifestyle destination and airlines that have garden, a 268 sqm water feature as well HIA was classified by putting the passengers at the heart of the displayed true industry as 11,720 sqm of landscaped retail and Skytrax as a five-star airport airport strategy. From a world-class art col- leadership and delivered dining concepts among other leisure in 2017, making it one among lection to contemporary shopping and significant improvements attractions and facilities under one only five other airports in the dining options to endless entertainment and in the travel experience at expansive terminal. The expansion plan world and the only one in the relaxation facilities, every corner of the multiple touchpoints. design will allow passenger flow to seam- Middle East to achieve this expansive terminal offers pleasant surprises lessly tie-up with the existing terminal prestigious status. Currently and an eclectic experience to passengers. and at the same time, improve the overall holding the “Fourth-Best HIA fosters a culture of hospitality passenger experience, including mini- Airport in the World” and the across all operations, bringing a new mizing travel distances for connections, “Best Airport in the Middle dimension to travel through world-class provide clarity and intuitive wayfinding East” titles, HIA continuously shopping, dining and leisure experiences more than 90 boutiques and enjoy a opportunity to relax at the conveniently and to provide a unique passenger expe- works to improve all aspects across 40,000 square meters. Travellers variety of culinary experiences in more located Oryx Airport Hotel, travellers can rience through the lush rainforest & of the passenger experience. can shop many sought-after brands at than 30 cafes and restaurants. Having the recharge at the Vitality Wellbeing and garden. HIA recognised as second-best international airport in the world by the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2019

amad International autonomy for the check-in of its transfer passengers to Airport (HIA) has process through the airport’s queue for under five minutes, achieved second Smart Airport Program which which is an industry-leading Hplace in the pres- has introduced self-check-in achievement tigious 2019 Travel + Leisure and bag drop kiosks which HIA’s unique shopping World’s Best Awards. First are biometric enabled. This and dining offering spread receiving this award in 2017, also makes the check-in across 40,000 square meters HIA continues to position process faster, which vastly of combined retail, food and itself as a leading global avi- improves customer expe- beverage options are also ation hub, with redefined rience and allows more pas- continuously expanding. The airport experiences for trav- sengers to be managed most recent addition at the ellers from around the world. without physical expansion airport is the opening of the The Travel + Leisure of the check-in facilities. Swiss Chocolatier ‘Läderach’ World’s Best Awards evaluate Within the security cri- in the terminal, which inau- airports based upon the direct terion, HIA has increased its gurated its boutique where feedback of their readers who security capacity for chocolate lovers and con- vote for their favourite screening in its transfer areas noisseurs travelling through airport across the globe, upon and reduced queuing time, as HIA can indulge in a variety criteria such as access, check- part of its commitment to of high-quality chocolate and in, security, restaurants, providing a seamless transfer confectionery specialities all shopping, and design. experience for passengers produced by hand. HIA also HIA has achieved signif- and maintaining high saw the opening of the first icant milestones within the standards of security. The Del Monte® F&B store in criteria for which it has been airport has also further Qatar at the airport, offering voted as the second best improved customer service passengers a new market international airport. Pas- in the transfer security areas, catering for the health-con- sengers have been given allowing at least 95 percent scious travellers. 3 HIA’s expansion plans include stunning indoor tropical garden & a water feature

amad International Airport The expansion of Hamad (HIA) in October International Airport is announced plans for second phase expansion a vital part of the future which will enhance the success of the Qatar airport’sH capacity to more than 60 Airways Group and the million passengers annually. country’s preparations to HIA’s expansion plan includes con- struction of an indoor tropical garden, host the 2022 World Cup a water feature, new cargo terminal, and beyond. new transfer area to shorten passengers’ connection time, landscaped retail and F&B space and other new features. garden will be brought in from sus- These measures will not only signifi- tainable forests from around the world. cantly enhance passenger experience Designers have developed a column- but will also strengthen HIA’s position free, long-span 85m grid shell roof with as one of the best airports in the world. performance glass to control and filter The second phase of HIA’s expansion the light required for the trees to accli- consists of Phase A and B. Phase A of the matize to the internal conditions of the current expansion will comprise of the terminal and grow throughout the life central concourse linking concourses D of the airport. and E. Construction is to commence by Other significant features include a early 2020 and will increase the airport’s new transfer area which will help capacity to more than 53 million pas- shorten passengers’ connection times sengers annually by 2022. Phase B, and will improve their overall transfer which will be completed after 2022, will experience at HIA as well as the central extend concourses D and E to further concourse that will accommodate nine enhance the airport’s capacity to more additional wide-body aircraft stands. than 60 million passengers annually. HIA expansion will also see the con- The expansion plan also includes Akbar Al Baker (centre), Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways; Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer (left), Chief struction of a new cargo terminal that 11,720 sqm of landscaped retail and F&B Operating Officer of HIA, and Omar Shahzad, Group CEO, Meinhardt, addressing the press conference at will increase capacity handled to an esti- space, which will enhance the multi- mated 3.2 million tons per year. The dimensional offerings of the five-star Doha Exhibition and Convention Center. state-of-the-art terminal is slated to be airport by integrating world-class art ready by 2023, and will be a multi-level collection and refreshing environment part of the future success of the Qatar expansion will continue to redefine the nature, thus improving their level of facility with 85,000 sqm building foot- of lush greenery with contemporary Airways Group and the country’s prep- airport experience, cementing HIA’s rep- comfort. print, across three levels as well as three retail and dining concepts among other arations to host the 2022 World Cup and utation as a destination gateway and The terminal building will be the first mezzanine levels providing approxi- leisure attractions and facilities under beyond. It is also a strong sign that critical international hub. airport in the MENA region to achieve a mately 323,000 sqm of gross floor area. one expansive terminal. Qatar’s economy is robust and acts as a The expansion has been designed to 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment HIA, ranked as the fourth-best HIA will also deliver 9,000 sqm of further economic stimulus, providing seamlessly integrate with the existing System (GSAS) rating, which is the first airport in the world and the best airport world-class Al Mourjan lounge located excellent opportunities for local and terminal, allowing smooth passenger performance-based system in the MENA in the Middle East at the SKYTRAX World above the retail space with dramatic international contractors. Plans for the flow and improving the overall pas- region, developed for rating the green Airport Awards 2019, is now in its sixth views looking towards the tropical phase two expansion focuses on capacity senger experience by minimizing travel buildings and infrastructures. The ter- year of operations. It has served over garden. The lounge will include addi- and passenger experience. distances for connections and providing minal will also be a LEED Silver certified 187 million passengers at its state-of- tional spas, gymnasiums, restaurants Since the start of its operations in clarity and intuitive wayfinding. The building with innovative measures of the-art terminal since opening in 2014 and business centres as well as other 2014, it has HIA’s goal to provide pas- beautiful new landscaped spaces and energy efficiency across the entire to date. HIA is currently a candidate for passenger facilities. The expansion of sengers with a unique travel experience, water feature will allow passengers to building. “World Best Airport” for the SKYTRAX Hamad International Airport is a vital keeping their needs as priority. The benefit from the calming effects of The flora for the indoor tropical World Airport Awards 2020.

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Qatar’s rise as winter Qatar to see record tourism destination number of cruise tourists this season

Sachin Kumar ships simultaneously. The new state- The Peninsula boosting“In this economic context, diversification. the company of-the-art port facilities will be able to under the guidance of the Ministry accommodate and serve large groups atar will see record of Transport & Communications of visitors expected by 2020 and number of cruise tour- plays an important role in the rede- beyond,” said Mwani Qatar ist this season as velopment of , which As a result of various initiatives 2019-20 cruise season would have a grand cruise and lei- by Qatar National Tourism Council is set to be the busiest sure yacht terminal facility once the and its partners, Qatar’s cruise indus- Q with over 186,000 pas- redevelopment completed,” said try has seen remarkable growth sengers and over 61,000 crew Mwani Qatar. during the last few years. arriving on 74 ships, thanks to the. A new cruise passenger terminal “As a result of close cooperation ongoingexpansion of Doha Port. was inaugurated at Doha Port in Octo- between Mwani Qatar, QNTC and “The new 2019/’20 cruise season ber that will support the country’s other stakeholders, Qatar’s cruise is set to be the busiest with over strategy to develop cruise tourism. The industry witnessed significant growth 186,000 passengers and over 61,000 current temporary terminal will be in in the last few years. For example, the crew arriving on 74 ships. Five ships place until the completion of the new 2018/19 season achieved 121 percent will make their maiden calls to Doha permanent terminal. growth in the number of cruise pas- this season. “The Doha Port redevelopment is sengers and 100 percent increase in "In addition to the 16 turnaround planned to be completed by 2022 and the number of cruise ships, with more calls, it is also the first season where the current temporary terminal will be than 140,000 passengers arriving nine ships will be staying overnight in place until the completion of the aboard 44 ships. These included 38 at Doha Port, giving the passengers expansion plan.” mega ships, which usually carry ample time to explore the destina- “As per the redevelopment plan, between 3,000 and 4,000 passen- tion’s offerings. 45 ships are making the all-new cruise port district of Doha gers and crew,” said Mwani Qatar. transit calls during this season,” will have exquisite facilities for leisure “Doha Port’s new temporary ter- Pic: Abdul Basit / The Peninsula Mwani Qatar told The Peninsula. and entertainment as well as many minal offers services and facilities, Mwani Qatar is working closely more exciting experiences to enthrall including seamless immigration and with stakeholders and partners such visitors of all age groups.” customs, foreign exchange, taxi and Sanaullah Ataullah Museums,” said Omar Fernandiz from He noted that the company has been receiv- as Supreme Committee for Delivery Doha Port will be able to accom- bus stands, Duty Free Shop, café, The Peninsula City. Fernandiz got excited when he came to ing very positive reactions from tourists about & Legacy and Qatar National Tour- modate several big cruise ships after waiting areas for cruise passengers know that he was going to visit Qatar, the host tourist spots in Qatar. ism Council to promote cruise tourism completion of its expansions works. and staff, as well as city tours and atar has emerged as one of the of 2022 FIFA World Cup. He said that Qatar is "We conduct random surveys in which the in Qatar as part of its role in support- “Upon completion of the expansion, other tourist information services,” most sought after winter destina- very nice and safe place. tourists express their views about the places they ing the country's tourism sector and Doha Port will be able to handle mega added Mwani Qatar. tions for global tourists. Mega "Museum of Islamic Art is a very nice and have visited. They are impressed with Qatar and Doha emerges as cruise ships, bringing thousands great place. It has unbelievable collections. We its amazing tourist spots," he observed. of tourists to Qatari shores each really enjoyed looking inside the museum. Peo- He said that tourists are also provided with Q season reflect Doha’s growing stat- ple working there are very friendly," he added. qualified guides by Qatar National Tourism ure in global tourism map. Increasing number of cruise tourists has Council (QNTC) who explain in detail Qatar and Cruise tourists visiting different places in also cheered up the local shop owners who have its tourist spots and give satisfactory answers cruise tourism hub Qatar have described the Museum of Islamic seen their business going up with the onset of to the questions of tourists. Art, and Msheireb Museums as some winter. Although winter has always been a busy The most attractive package offered by of country's amazing tourist destinations. season for them but cruise tourists have given Qatar International Adventures is city tour “We got a nice tour to a number of places extra push to their sales. which includes Museum of Islamic Art and Fazeena Saleem ices and maintenance. in Qatar including the Museum of Islamic Art,” “October marks the advent of busy season National Museum of Qatar followed by desert The Peninsula “Passengers flying into Doha and embark said Rafal Stepiam, a US-based tourist who vis- for us. We see increase in the number of tour- safari tour for half-day (four hours) or full day from Doha. This is not only cruise, its hotel ited Doha recently aboard American megaship ists from October onwards. Most of the cruise (eight hours) which includes food, beach and oha’s emergence as a turna- accommodation, transportation: So it is busi- Jewel of Seas. "As I am Polish and living in Flor- tourists want items which reflect Qatari cul- camp. “Today we engaged over 50 buses for round port marks a major ness for the country. Now we have arrivals, ida, for us it was our very first time to visit any ture. They look for items which have Qatari city tours and over 100 four-wheeler cars for milestone in the development we meet them at the airport, we transfer them Arabic country which is very interesting. We touch. They prefer handicraft items carrying desert safari in Sealine Area," he said. of the country’s cruise tour- to the port, they depart in the ship and they like to stay here,” said Stepiam. “I was very designs showing Qatar’s traditions and culture,” He said that the buses on the way to desert ism. For the first time, visitors go on a one week tour in Gulf area and come excited to know about the unique . said a representative of Al Dham Gift at Souq safari stop by in two places for picture taking. can begin and end their jour- back. Then we receive them accommodate at I wanted to ride but unfortunately could not Waqif. Cruise tourists say that local market is The company has its own camps at Sealine area Dney from Doha and have the opportunity to hostels for one night and they the passengers find time to do so,” he added. a window to get the glimpse of local culture of for tourists to get them relaxed and have some enjoy Qatar’s five-star airline and award-win- fly back to their countries,” said Amora. Speaking about tourist packages offered by any country. coffee, juices and food. He said that the tour- ning hospitality before and after their cruises. “The capacity of Costa Diadema is 5,500 local tour operators to the tourists, he said that “It is very difficult for us to identify a cruise ists also get the chance to ride camels and Costa Diadema, the fleet flagship of lead- passengers. We will have about 1500 to 2000 he got the tourist package while on the ship. tourist from other tourists. But, the tourists are interact with falcons in addition to other fun ing Italian company Costa Cruises, docked at passengers going on tours and excursions “The tour operator provided well-trained curious about locally made things. Their idea activities such as beach volleyball, sand-board- Doha Port for the first time recently, marking within Doha. This is an opportunity for the guides who answered all questions regarding is to take something which they can show to ing, dune bashing and swimming in the sea. the first of 16 turnaround calls that the Dream- passengers to explore Qatar's offerings. We Qatar and its tourist spots,” said Stepiam. their families and friends at their countries He said that tour operators receive full class cruise liner will make during the 2019-20 have designed city tours, heritage tours, desert “We did a discovery tour of Qatar. We vis- items collected from countries they have vis- support from QNTC, Qatar Port Management Season. safari and others. Others will choose to stay ited the Museum of Islamic Art, an amazing ited,” said a representative of New Mumtaz Company - Mwani Qatar, Mowasalat, Minis- “We are focusing on inbound tourism to in the cruise,” he added. place. We also visited Souq Waqif where we Perfumes at Souq Waqif. try of Transport and Communications and match with the strategy of Qatar to become a Tareq Amora The majority of Costa Diadema passen- saw spices and animals. It is a very good cul- According to tour operators, The Museum other partners to ensure a smooth tour oper- hub for cruise tourism. Inbound bruise busi- gers are from , but some are from , tural place,” said Kevin Craven, a US national of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar ation for cruise ship passengers which call at ness is very important for the country. It really already signed contracts with Costa Diadema, and other countries. who came on the same ship. attract the highest number of tourists. Doha Port. supported by the government. We have Aida and Queen Mary. Next year we will have Tawfeeq Travel also handle passengers Craven who is a first-timer in Qatar, said “Qatar has many amazing tourist spots like a Spanish cruise,” said Tareq from Doha. They embark and disembark from that the country has nice touch and interesting the Museum of Islamic Arts, National Museum Amora, Inbound manager, the Doha port. “There is a huge demand from culture. He wanted to visit Qatar again to know of Qatar, Msheireb Museums Souq Waqif, Sea- Tawfeeq Travel. passengers in Doha. We have enquiries every more about it. line Beach, Safliya Island, and desert safari dune “Costa Diadema, is an day. Unfortunately the cabins are booked until Speaking about the tour management, Cra- bashing,” said Khalid Al Jaouni, Manager of Italian cruise that has had January. The prices are really affordable, the ven said that it was managed in perfect timing. Qatar International Adventures, a local tour two turnaround calls and whole package start from QR 3000 for two “We went to multiple destinations, stopped by operator. expected to have another people,” said Amora. in each place about 20 to 30 minutes to get a He said that about 1,200 tourists visit the 14 calls. Hope this will Qatar's cruise industry has grown leaps quick look," he said, adding that check-in and Museum of Islamic Art and the National increase. In last season we and bounds in recent years. As the cruise sea- check-out process was very fast and easy. Museum of Qatar per call of cruise ships. “We handled Costa Diadema son grows year-on-year, thousands of jobs “We are very impressed. Qatar is a fantas- offer tourists to experience Dhows, the tradi- day cruise. They come and business opportunities are created. tic country, very dynamic and forward tional Qatari boats which are available along morning and leave by “We started just last year and we have the thinking,” said, tourist Roan Tailor from Scot- the promenade for hourly hire,” said Al Jaouni. evening. We have no arriv- biggest ships embarking from Doha. It’s a huge land. He said that it was good to see the culture He said that some dhow cruises offer three- als and departures, no and promising business. We are trying to bring and corporate buildings. “Qatar is a place we to four-hour outings with dinner, traditional turnaround passengers. cruise companies which have never been to shall visit again, fantastic country, fantastic peo- music and entertainment, while others offer This year for the first time Qatar. We have already signed a contract with ple,” said Tailor. quick itineraries. in Qatar we have turna- Pullmantur Cruises in Spain. Hope they will start Qatar is going to host 2022 FIFA World Cup He said that Qatar International Adventures round passengers,” he coming to Doha in next seasons and it will have which will attract lot of people who will get the also take the tourists to , located added. a overnight stay with 26 hours,” said Amora. chance to visit the amazing cities of the coun- off the coast of Doha, an amazing place for lov- Turnaround voyages As a result of various initiatives by Qatar try. "The show will continue. We will come back ers of sand and swimming. contribute significantly to National Tourism Council and its partners, the to 2022 when Qatar will host 2022 FIFA World The tourists also visit Al Shaqab Equestrian the country’s economy and 2018/19 season achieved 121 percent growth Cup," said Tailor. Center to see horses of Arab origin. Al Shaqab, strengthen the tourism sec- in the number of cruise passengers and 100 Tailor was very excited after visiting which opened in 1992, was developed to cre- tor. In addition to the visits percent growth in the number of cruise ships, Msheireb Museums which he described as a ate a world-class equestrian center and to the passengers are spend- with over 140,000 passengers arriving aboard fascinating tourist destination. Speaking about preserve historical Qatari traditions of breed- ing in the country, the 44 ships. the development of the country he said that the ing Arabian horses. growth in Qatar’s cruise The 2019-20 season is expected to be even credit goes to the Qatar government and the "We also offer panoramic tour to the Cor- tourism is also contribut- bigger, with over 186,000 passengers and over people for the progress they made today. niche, Doha skyline, Souq Waqif, and Souq Al ing to the country’s 61,000 crew arriving on 74 ships. Five ships “I love Qatar, it is an amazing country. We Wakra which attract large number of tourists," economy through cruise will make their maiden calls to Doha this visited today Souq Waqif and Msheireb he said. line spending on port serv- season. 6 Destination Qatar A giant in ‘Holiday’ mood

ollowing the opening of ‘KAWS: He Eats Alone at a playful commentary on our humanity. the Fire Station’, Qatar Museums unveiled ‘Holiday,’ With gloved hands and X’s for eyes, the highly-popular an installation by US born artist, Brian Donnelly – ‘Companion’ character was first created in the late 1990’s Fknown as KAWS. The work, currently situated at and has become a symbol that both embraces and rejects the Dhow Harbour, is on display for the first time in the the ideals of today’s consumerist society. Middle East and joins Qatar’s growing portfolio of permanent The installation in Doha is the most recent iteration of and temporary public art pieces. the touring KAWS: ‘Holiday’ project after previous displays “Holiday” is an inflatable sculpture depicting KAWS’ were held in Seoul in South Korea and Mount Fuji in . character, ‘Companion’, in a laid-back position. The colossal Located at the heart of Qatar’s cultural square, which is sculpture, measuring at a height of 40 meters, represents close to popular destinations such as the Museum of Islamic the artist’s attempt to remind passersby to relax in an Art, the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif, the increasingly hectic world. Much like the rest of KAWS’ body Dhow Harbour is the ideal location to host such a show- of work, the installation uses wit and irreverence to provide stopping piece in Qatar.

PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA

The Peace Bench

he National Museum of Qatar installed and unveiled the Peace Bench — a gift from the Nobel Peace Center in Norway. Placed within the Baraha Souq at NMoQ, the gift is in collaboration with the Norwegian company Hydro and marks the 50-year industrial Tcollaboration between the two countries. The unique design is in the shape of a partial circle that meets the ground at its lowest point, embodying an invitation to conversation. An internationally recognised symbol of conversation, diplomacy and dialogue, the bench was first placed outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City earlier this year and NMoQ received the second one. The bench has been commissioned by the Nobel Peace Center and is titled “The Best Weapon” in reference to a famous quote by Nobel laureate Nelson Mandela: “The best weapon is to sit down and talk.” The National Museum of Qatar was selected under the basis of being a high-visibility area by the Nobel Peace Center, shedding light on the museum’s aim of bringing commu- nities together to experience Qatar’s past, present and future. The 6.5-meter long bench is made from 100% recyclable aluminium supplied by Hydro, which is a part-owner of the Qatar based aluminium company Qatalum. Hydro started its industrial adventure in Qatar in 1969, partnering with Qatar Petroleum to establish Qafco and later Qatar Vinyl Company before Qatalum started production in 2010. The bench is designed by the Norwegian architect and design group Snøhetta and manufactured by Vestre.

Qatar’s first-ever Hot Air Balloon Festival

Qatar’s first-ever Hot Air Balloon Festival recently concluded on a high note as thousands of spectators flocked to Aspire Park to witness more than 30 hot air balloons from 13 countries in a stunning show.

PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA 7

Katara Hospitality showcases An artist’s impression of Zulal Wellness Resort. Qatar’s rich heritage, culture

Eight new hotels, resorts to open in Qatar next year

atar’s hospitality sector will offer more choices for customers in 2020 as eight new hotels and Qproperties are expected to open next year. The hotels across the country are expected to do brisk business as occupancy is anticipated to increase across all hotel categories. Zulal Wellness Resort, Panorama Residences & Suites, Plaza Rayhaan, Pullman Hotel, Samrya Quartier Hotel & Apartments, The Plaza Doha, The Vyra and Aleph Residences, are expected to open next year, according to consulting firm ValuStrat. Assuming all projects are delivered on time, Qatar will comprise of 34,000 hotel keys and hotel apart- ments, 308,000 residential units and an office supply of 5.8 sqm GLA (Gross Leasable Area). The firms noted in its report that several new malls are also set to open next year. Upcoming malls in Qatar during 2020 include J Mall in , La Plage 04 Mall in The Pearl and Doha Mall in Al Mamoura. Retail performance in terms of occupancy is pro- jected to improve due to temporary increase in demand as World Cup 2022 nears, especially for shopping o mark this year’s Hospitality marked this occasion with an event for employees and occasion, H E Sheikh Nawaf bin centres which are introducing anchor tenants from National Day, Katara in distinctive style in all its Qatar- hotel General Managers high- Jassim bin Jabor Al Thani, entertainment and speciality Food and Beverage to Hospitality, a leading based hotels, including; The Ritz- lighting Qatar’s rich culture and Chairman of Katara Hospitality, draw footfall. global hotel owner, Carlton, Doha; Sharq Village & Spa; heritage. said: “It is an honour to celebrate Due to the expected increase in visitors and dipping developer and Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Katara Hospitality’s head- the hard work, tireless dedication room rates, occupancy is anticipated to increase across operator, based in Convention Hotel; , a quarters was transformed into a and uncompromising values that all hotel categories. As of September 2019, Qatar had TQatar, offeried a diverse range of Luxury Collection Resort & Spa; haven of national colours, have inspired the continued 26,778 hotel rooms and hotel apartments within 128 activities to best showcase the Mövenpick Hotel Doha; Sealine bringing the spirit of the nation growth and ongoing successes of establishments. A total of 1.49 million international Qatari spirit and tradition. Beach, a Murwab Resort; to life with activities synonymous our great nation of Qatar today. guests (compared to 1.32 million last year) stayed an Qatar National Day accen- Simaisma, a Murwab Resort and with local culture, which con- Katara Hospitality is elated to be average of 3.47 nights per stay and spent an Average tuates the identity and history of The Avenue, a Murwab Hotel. cluded with a cake-cutting cer- a part of commemorations that Daily Rate of QR369. The first nine months saw occu- the country and celebrates the Katara Hospitality celebrated emony to further mark this highlight the rich history and pancy rates averaging at 64 percent which is 5 percent ideas and visionary aspirations this joyous occasion on December occasion. accomplishments that solidify higher than last year, that Qatar was founded on. Katara 16 at the company’s headquarters Commenting on this Qatar’s strength as a nation.”

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