FACT Magazine Qatar April 2012

THE SMART MONTHLY GUIDE TO LIFE IN QATAR

FACT M.E. - QATAR EDITION

THE FINEST ADDRESS IN QATAR

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ISSUE 12

hotel debuts :

APRIL 2012

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts extends a privileged invitation to experience the finest expression of luxury and an unrivaled commitment to service excellence at the latest addition to its portfolio, The St. Regis Doha.

Come, explore.

Now accepting reservations

FASHION. ART. CULTURE. TECHNOLOGY

Project Qatar

The colossal construction industry expo returns! (p14)

APRIL 2012

VOL 2, ISSUE 1 QR10

BD1

The

CrossCountry Rally Hed Kandi

Yet another FIAsanctioned rally puts Qatar on ts the motorspor map! (p10)

A brand new feature! (p56)

2/20/12 5:57 PM

+

The glamorous global clubbing brand hits Doha this April! (p6)

PLUS The Chef’s Table +

April Cover.indd 1 St Regis_Fact Qatar.indd 1

2012

The Galaxy Nexus

Samsung’s new smartphone! (p42) 29/03/2012 09:50

2

FACT QATAR APRIL

Qatar march Issue.indd 2

29/03/2012 01:55

THE SMART MONTHLY GUIDE TO LIFE IN QATAR

FACT M.E. - QATAR EDITION

THE FINEST ADDRESS IN QATAR

APRIL 2012

the st. regis doha u

al gassar resort u

u

po box 14435

west bay

u

doha

u

Project Qatar

The colossal construction industry expo returns! (p14)

MARCH 2012

VOL 2, ISSUE 1 QR10

BD1

2012

The

Now accepting reservations

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts extends a privileged invitation to experience the finest expression of luxury and an unrivaled commitment to service excellence at the latest addition to its portfolio, The St. Regis Doha.

Come, explore.

FASHION. ART. CULTURE. TECHNOLOGY

CrossCountry Rally

6 Hed Kandi!

The global house music brand comes to Qatar!

6

NOTEWORTHY

10 The Sealine CrossCountry Rally!

Yet another FIAsanctioned rally puts Qatar on the motorsports map! (p10)

The international motorsports event takes place in Qatar this month,

CULTURE

qatar

tel +974.4446.0000 fax +974.4446.0001

abu dhabi

bal harbour sanya

doha

bangkok

florence

shenzhen

tianjin

stregisdoha.com

SPG, St. Regis and their respective logos are the trademarks of

ISSUE 12

hotel debuts : mauritius

Hed Kandi

+

The glamorous global clubbing brand hits Doha this April! (p6)

PLUS The Chef’s Table + A brand new feature! (p56)

The Galaxy Nexus

Samsung’s new smartphone! (p42)

2/20/12 5:57 PM

FACT Magazine M.E. Qatar Edition April 2012 Volume 2 Issue 1

Published by FACT M.E. Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Bahrain Publisher & Chairman Mubarak Bin Rashed al Khalifa Editor-in-Chief Tony Sidgwick (editor@factlive.com) Deputy Editor Zara De Haldevang Regional Sales Manager Laura Alvarez Sales & Marketing Manager Sari Mabire Qatar Sales Manager Victoria Ferraris Designer Rashed Bindaina Distribution & Office Manager Hussein A Zreik Fashion Consultant Laura Bale Contributors Jacqwi Campbell Photography Contributors Jacqwi Campbell Rashed Bindaina PRINTED BY Dar Al Sharq ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 1721 6099 E-mail: laura@factlive.com All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher.

All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

14 Project Watch!

The colossal construction industry expo Project Qatar takes place this month at the Doha Exhibition Centre, and in honour of the event, we bring you a round-up of all the major current and planned projects in Qatar.

28 Jennifer Pinder

The Qatar-based artist who is taking the country’s art scene by storm...

14

ARTS

28

34 Lockout

FACT previews the latest Guy Pearce action flick, which has been described as Taken in outer space!

40 Formula One Watches

We take a look at the high-tech watch brands who sponsor F1 Teams.

TECHNOLOGY

40

46 The Audi A6

Ali Driver reviews the mid-size premium sedan on a 48hr test drive, and likes it, a lot!

50 The Puma Creative Factory

50

FASHION

Puma gives the public the chance to design their very own version of the classic T7 jacket!

THE INDEX FACT QATAR APRIL

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47 3

29/03/2012 01:55

NOTEWORTHY

FROM THE EDITOR What’s Missing from Qatar’s Projects?

THIS month sees the massive Project Qatar construction expo taking place in Doha, which you can read about in our Culture Section. With Qatar recently being announced as the richest country in the world, and the World Cup 2020 looming on the horizon, global multinationals are scrambling to be a part of it, and cash in on what promises to be one of the most lucrative construction markets in the world in the coming years.

Take a look at West Bay – five years ago that stunning skyline didn’t exist, and now it’s a focal point of Doha’s coastline. What’s going to happen in the next five years?

Qatar is keen to promote itself as a regional economic leader and cultural hub, and not just as the world’s biggest exporter of natural gas. However, having extensively explored the many projects going on in Qatar at the moment, and there are some really amazing things to see, there is one thing that is so far lacking from the scene.

Dubai used them to great effect to promote itself, and they’re one of

the reasons that an emirate with little wealth in fossil fuels managed to become a regional pioneer in tourism and leisure.

What I’m talking about are the ‘Superlatives’.

The world’s most luxurious hotel. The world’s biggest manmade leisure island project. The world’s tallest building.

The biggest fireworks display. Biggest, bigger, better, best, more, more, more!

Dubai brazenly reached for the stars, but by overstretching itself without the resources to back it up, it flew too close to the sun and got burned. However, in the process, the name had already been established, and despite a hefty knock, it has bounced back (with no small measure of assistance from a generous neighbour), and is still a regional centre for media, leisure and hospitality.

Qatar has the time, and it definitely has the money. I want to see some ‘Superlatives’ being announced here in the next few years that will really put Doha on the map! They’re coming, just you wait and see…

Tony Sidgwick Editor-in-Chief tony@factlive.com

My favourite story this issue NOTEWORTHY

ine Sealine Cross-Country The Seal Cross-Country Rally Rally in Qatar! p10-11 E Here at FACT, we love all things motorsports, and as far as we’re concerned, the more the better, so this third leg of the FIA World Cup of the Cross-Country Rallies taking place in Qatar is fantastic! more With motorsports becoming more and FACT popular and widespread in the region, finds out more about the latest event to hit the automotive calendar in Qatar... veryone has got that inner rally driver in them. We have all made those “broom broom” noises behind the wheel, planted our accelerators (and got a little bit nervous when the speedometer reaches over the 140km/h mark). It isn’t until you see the REAL rally drivers that you realise just how much skill is involved when it comes to handling a car. This month, you can witness it for yourself.

The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) has just announced that it will play host to the third round of the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies. The Sealine Cross-Country Rally, which is also round two of the six-event FIM CrossCountry Rallies World Championship, will take place over six days from April 15 to 21.

Cross-country rallies are designed to be staged over a variety of terrain, all created to put the competitors and cars through a series of tests to prove their skill and endurance, as well as the reliability of their machines. The desert landscapes of Qatar offer a pretty decent range of soft sand, dunes and rocky terrain, all of which are ideal for a rally!

What was initially a two-day event has now been extended to five, where any cars in the T1, T2, T3 and 2 wheel-drive categories, trucks in the T4 class, as well as motorcycles and quads can all get involved on the FIA World Cup Calendar.

The QMMF is the brainchild of Nasser Khalifa Al-Attiyah, a man who is also the current president. “It was important that we got the candidate event under our belts last year and were able to see where improvements could be made and how we could extend the event to cater for the requirements of a full cross-country rally,” said AlAttiyah. “I am delighted to announce new additions to our team. We are all looking forward to running a full FIA World Cup event in Qatar for the first time.”

Keeping his passion for cars firmly

10

4

News from the

FACT Penthouse

,,

Fast And Competitively Tuned in his blood is Fred Gallagher, a former co-driver and international competitor, who has been appointed as the Event Director.

Fred commented on this rally by saying, “I visited Qatar for the first time in 1986 during the Qatar International Rally, and I thoroughly enjoyed the rally.

The first time I was there, Björn Waldegård and I won the Middle East Championship Round, and it is great to be back. I was surprised by the variety of tracks Qatar has in its deserts and this bodes well for devising challenging events in the future.”

He goes on to laud the efforts in Qatar to bring motorsports up to a world-class level. “Under the presidency of Nasser Khalifa AlAttiyah, cross-country events are going from strength to strength, and several countries have expressed an interest in joining the FIA calendar. The Qatar event promises to be one of the most challenging in the championship and has put the Middle East at the forefront of the cross-country rallying discipline.”

This automotive veteran will be working alongside the experienced Portuguese duo of Pedro Almeida and Jaime Santos. Both men have similar, yet equally important roles: Almeida, with lengthy experience from the Rally of Portugal, is stepping into a similar position

to We are all looking forward running a full FIA World Cup event in Qatar for the first time. in Qatar while Santos, a man with considerable experience of Baja-type events in Portugal, will be the man in charge of routes and mapping.

For the motorcycles and the quads, Iain Black will be the man to go to, while his colleague Rashid Al-Sulaiti will act as the Deputy Clerk.

Like every other professional rally, regulations must be obeyed and followed with great scrutiny.

Administration checks for the GCC and Qatar crews are set to take place on April 15, while the international teams will pass their checks on April 16, just before the ceremony kicks off in the afternoon.

The six days are set to be jampacked, where some of the tasters include super special stages on the Tuesday as well the first of four desert legs of the new Sealine Cross-Country Rally beginning on the Wednesday.

Unfortunately, like any event, there must be a cut off point to make sure you’re there to watch all the action as it draws to a close on the final day, Saturday.

GO: To find out more, call 4437 9884 www.qmmf.com.

or log onto

FACT QATAR APRIL

We’re one of the media partners for the massive Project Qatar expo taking place this month, so look out for us at the event!

We’re also sponsoring the Global DJs Hed Kandi event so look out for us there too... in fact, just look out for us EVERYWHERE!!!

Check out the BRAND NEW regular feature in the Index, the Chef’s Table, where we dine with a Head Chef each month. This April, it’s Chef Ricardo of the Ritz Carlton Doha. It’s a tough job, but someone’s gotta do it...

11

FACT QATAR APRIL

FACT QATAR APRIL

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The Mall T. 4467 8300 FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 5

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NOTEWORTHY 1

APRIL

SUN

2

MON

DONT MISS...

3

TUE

4

WED

5

THUR

6

FRI

7

SAT

8

SUN

9

MON

10 TUE

11 WED

12 - Hed Kandi @ InterContinental Hotel (see opp.)

THUR

13 FRI

14 SAT

15 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) SUN

16

- Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10)

MON

17 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) TUE

18 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) WED

19 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) THUR

20 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) FRI

21 - Sealine Cross Country Rally (see p.10) SAT

22 SUN

23 MON

24 TUE

25 WED

26

THUR

27 FRI

28 29 SAT

SUN

30 - Project Qatar @ Doha Exhib. Centre (see p.14) MON

1

- Project Qatar @ Doha Exhib. Centre (see p.14)

TUE

6

Hed Kandi Brings Miami to Qatar!

With almost every continent in the bank, Global DJs brings you the Miami World Series for a night of pure musical heaven.

A

pril 12 is definitely one to note down in your diaries! In association with the Intercontinental Hotel and iloveqatar.net, Hed Kandi is hitting Qatar with a pretty sweet line up.

Already known for having over 1,000 parties across the globe every year, over 1.5 million party people go to these gigs annually, and they all share a pretty similar opinion: that they are truly unforgettable!

So who can we expect to see at this April event? Well, first we have a DJ set from Stevan Qaurre, a man who fell in love with electronic music from a pretty young age. Bored of playing with tape decks and old mixers, this guy decided it was high time to buy the necessary equipment to practise his skills on.

House music ultimately became one of his primary focuses in life. Having hit several clubs in the Netherlands, Stevan was then asked to play for the Dutch Hed Kandi parties, where he is now a worldwide resident DJ, and also presents a weekly show on Dutch Hed Kandi radio. His philosophy?

“I really enjoy letting people listen to music I love.” We sure can’t wait to hear it.

Next up there is the world famous percussionist Dean Oram, a solo musician who heightens the

momentum with contemporary rhythms and fills using three congas, two sets of bongos, cymbals, cowbells, blocks Roland HPD 10 and the new Roland Octapad. Not a newbie to the music scene, Dean studied Afro Cuban, Latin and Brazilian percussion at London’s Drumtech Academy. Involved with Hed Kandi since 2008, this man can capture a crowd and really keep a party going.

Others to look out for are Lady V, live on the saxophone. Real name Louise, this lady has secured herself a monthly residency in Dubai’s Barasti as well as work with Fierce Angel and some spots in Ibiza. Said to have “real star quality” by Hed Kandi’s founder, Mark Doyle, she will also be on stage with a whole host of musical wonders from Doha – Jared McCullough, Paul Mendez, Steve KZ, Carl Roberts and Nadine Eskie.

To get involved with this party, its pretty simple. Tickets are 150QR for the ladies and men are only a little bump up at 200QR. For those looking to really splash out and go all red-carpet-style, then yours will be 350QR. GO: Tickets available from Virgin Megastore, Crepawat and The Intercontinental Hotel Lobby. For more information, log on to www.globaldjs.org or www.hedkandi.com.

FACT QATAR APRIL

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QUOTE OF

THE MONTH “It will be an interactive window for the public to know about its activities and express their views and opinions.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, commenting on the launch of the Ministry’s services on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube in several languages.

Is Qatar’s real estate industry going to be the biggest in the region?

I really enjoy letting people listen to music I love.

With a huge scale of projects currently ongoing, and billions of dollars worth planned for completion before the 2022 World Cup, is Qatar’s construction industry going to overtake those of its neighbours over the next few years? We think it’s a strong possibility, and we’re not the only ones judging by the participants list of the Project Qatar expo this year!

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 7

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NOTEWORTHY

THE SCOPE

LOVE IT !

Tourism Set to Rise Dramatically!

Qatar’s Peeps Create Apps

SO OBVIOUS!

TWe thoroughly enjoyed following the Vodafone Indie Fikra Appathon that took place during the QITCOM expo last month. Teams of young programmers and mobile entrepreneurs took part in a competition where they were challenged to create a practical and useful app for smartphones under competition conditions. And some of the results were impressive! The winners, team “Stalkers”, won the top prize with an mHealth app designed to teach children with diabetes how to live a healthy live. Hats off to you guys, you deserve it!

Mobiles Hacked

However, speaking of mobile technology, is seems that hackers have now found a way to invade our pockets, with news that mobile phones have been hacked by cyber criminals using the free web-based SMS app WhatsApp. The hackers have been luring users with a multimedia message asking them to download an image with then enables the hacker to access personal data. The golden rule of the web is: Never download something unless you KNOW who it’s from!

CAN’T BELIEVE IT

Good news on the horizon: According to a report by the UN World Tourism Organisation, tourism in the Gulf is set to grow massively by 2030, thanks to strong investment and initiatives being followed by regional governments, and this only means good things for us residents! Tourists spend money and stimulate economies, and generate a buzz about the place.

Bring it on!

HATE IT! Zara’s Question of the Month:

How bad is your road rage?

I

swear there is something that happens every day on the roads that doesn’t fail to surprise me.

If it isn’t some numpty adopting the “Saudi swerve” and ultimately ending up in the central reservation, it’s someone else attempting to overtake on a turning, on a corner or just when it is physically impossible. So is it ever acceptable to vent your anger even when you’re not involved?

A friend of mine did just this the other day – instead of shouting, she gave the naughty hand gesture, which was completely justified by the way.

Illegal? Yes of course. Deserved?

Even more so.

It is bad enough being a woman here

8

sometimes (I count my stars I am not blonde) but being a female driver is a whole new board game. The new road near my house is now the ultimate crash hub; every day new tyre marks appear on the road, where 90mph idiots hurtle themselves in front of pickups, just so they get the one up on the junction. A dog has been killed, my sister has almost been run over whilst running. Yes, I admit to occasionally ignoring my Lancer beeping when the 120 mark has been hit but when it comes to being safe? Stop staring, put your phone down and learn the definition of the term ‘fast lane’.

I think what this all boils down to is just how easy it is to get your

license here. A close friend of mine paid his instructor to lie about how many driving hours he had done so he could pass his test. Another acquaintance doesn’t even have a license and still hits the roads at ridiculous speeds and in various states. Is everyone just waiting for something bad to happen for us to get some sense knocked into us?

Without wanting to sound like a complete wimp, bad driving really freaks me out… so stay safe and watch out for the idiots unfortunately this seems to be the large majority of people behind the wheel.

Ok, rant over!

FACT QATAR APRIL

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THE DOHA MINUTE

“I’m a fan of Souq Waqif. I go there with a book and relax at a restaurant’s balcony area with shisha and a good read.”

FACT caught up with Jacqwi Campbell, a freelance writer and photographer who recently moved to Qatar.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING IN QATAR?

One month.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT LIVING IN QATAR?

I’m quite excited by the social and economic boom here.

I feel like I’m witnessing the development of a leading metropolis.

CAN YOU TELL US ONE THING THAT YOU LOVE ABOUT QATAR?

I love the cultural movement here for art and education. I visited the Murakami-Ego exhibit two weeks, which made my day.

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT QATAR, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I would like to see more of a trendy local business scene. I love vintage record shops, quaint galleries and charming local cafes with personality.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SWITCH OFF FROM WORK AND RELAX?

I’m a fan of Souq Waqif. I go there with a book and relax at a restaurant’s balcony area with shisha and a good read.

TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW?

I started to play the saxophone in elementary school because I saw Bill Clinton play it on TV once with Kenny G. But sometimes I like to tell people I was inspired by John Coltrane because it sounds much more interesting!

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 9

9 29/03/2012 01:55

NOTEWORTHY

The Sealine

Cross-Country Rally

With motorsports becoming more and more popular and widespread in the region, FACT finds out more about the latest event to hit the automotive calendar in Qatar...

E

veryone has got that inner rally driver in them. We have all made those “broom broom” noises behind the wheel, planted our accelerators (and got a little bit nervous when the speedometer reaches over the 140km/h mark). It isn’t until you see the REAL rally drivers that you realise just how much skill is involved when it comes to handling a car. This month, you can witness it for yourself.

The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) has just announced that it will play host to the third round of the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies. The Sealine Cross-Country Rally, which is also round two of the six-event FIM CrossCountry Rallies World Championship, will take place over six days from April 15 to 21.

Cross-country rallies are designed to be staged over a variety of terrain, all created to put the competitors and cars through a series of tests to prove their skill and endurance, as well as the reliability of their machines. The desert landscapes of Qatar offer a pretty decent range of soft sand, dunes and rocky terrain, all of which are ideal for a rally!

What was initially a two-day event has now been extended to five, where any cars in the T1, T2, T3 and 2 wheel-drive categories, trucks in the T4 class, as well as motorcycles and quads can all get involved on the FIA World Cup Calendar.

The QMMF is the brainchild of Nasser Khalifa Al-Attiyah, a man who is also the current president. “It was important that we got the candidate event under our belts last year and were able to see where improvements could be made and how we could extend the event to cater for the requirements of a full cross-country rally,” said AlAttiyah. “I am delighted to announce new additions to our team. We are all looking forward to running a full FIA World Cup event in Qatar for the first time.”

Keeping his passion for cars firmly

10

FACT QATAR APRIL

Qatar march Issue.indd 10

29/03/2012 01:55

,,

Fast And Competitively Tuned in his blood is Fred Gallagher, a former co-driver and international competitor, who has been appointed as the Event Director.

Fred commented on this rally by saying, “I visited Qatar for the first time in 1986 during the Qatar International Rally, and I thoroughly enjoyed the rally.

The first time I was there, Björn Waldegård and I won the Middle East Championship Round, and it is great to be back. I was surprised by the variety of tracks Qatar has in its deserts and this bodes well for devising challenging events in the future.”

He goes on to laud the efforts in Qatar to bring motorsports up to a world-class level. “Under the presidency of Nasser Khalifa AlAttiyah, cross-country events are going from strength to strength, and several countries have expressed an interest in joining the FIA calendar. The Qatar event promises to be one of the most challenging in the championship and has put the Middle East at the forefront of the cross-country rallying discipline.”

This automotive veteran will be working alongside the experienced Portuguese duo of Pedro Almeida and Jaime Santos. Both men have similar, yet equally important roles: Almeida, with lengthy experience from the Rally of Portugal, is stepping into a similar position

We are all looking forward to running a full FIA World Cup event in Qatar for the first time.

in Qatar while Santos, a man with considerable experience of Baja-type events in Portugal, will be the man in charge of routes and mapping.

For the motorcycles and the quads, Iain Black will be the man to go to, while his colleague Rashid Al-Sulaiti will act as the Deputy Clerk.

Like every other professional rally, regulations must be obeyed and followed with great scrutiny.

Administration checks for the GCC and Qatar crews are set to take place on April 15, while the international teams will pass their checks on April 16, just before the ceremony kicks off in the afternoon.

The six days are set to be jampacked, where some of the tasters include super special stages on the Tuesday as well the first of four desert legs of the new Sealine Cross-Country Rally beginning on the Wednesday.

Unfortunately, like any event, there must be a cut off point to make sure you’re there to watch all the action as it draws to a close on the final day, Saturday.

GO: To find out more, call 4437 9884 or log onto www.qmmf.com.

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 11

11 29/03/2012 01:55

12

FACT QATAR APRIL

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29/03/2012 01:55

CULTURE

p14: Project Watch

GETTING UNDER BAHRAIN’S SKIN THIS MONTH

As ambitions go, they don’t get much bigger than Doha’s. Dubai can keep it’s record-breaking, and Abu Dhabi can keep it’s culture vulturing. Here in Doha, our future is written in the language of style. Don’t believe us? Read on...

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 13

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CULTURE

The

Project

One of the biggest trade shows to take place annually in Doha – or even in the region – is Project Qatar, a colossal gathering of the leaders of the construction and property development industry.

AS a region, the Middle East is an exciting place to be for property developers. With a rapidly expanding economy driven by the wealth in fossil fuels, the limits of where the industry can go are only limited by the ambitions and imagination of the region’s leaders, whether they be from government or business.

Just look at Dubai – rather than question, “Can we do it?”, they asked “How can we do it?”, and this mentality led to projects like the Burj Al Arab, the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Islands.

Qatar, with its seeming bottomless reserves of natural gas, stands out in the region as a country with vastly untapped potential for just these kinds of projects, and it is now waking up to this reality and flexing its ambitions.

By winning the bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022, Qatar has paved the way for more intensive nation-wide development at an accelerated pace, creating endless opportunities, particularly in the construction sector.

Construction giants across the globe, from architects to developers, engineers, suppliers and more, are already aware of this potential, and all of them have an eye on Qatar. And all of them are therefore scrambling to be a part of Project Qatar.

Organized at the heart of the construction hub, where demand is at its peak, Project Qatar 2012 the 9th International Construction, Building, Environmental Technology and Materials Exhibition, will attract key buyers who are looking for the most up-to-date technology and state-of-the art equipment available on the market.

In 2011, the response to Project Qatar was overwhelming. The last edition of the show surpassed all expectations, including its achievements during 2010. More than 1,750 local and international firms exhibited at Project Qatar 2011, thus registering a record increase of 73% in the number of exhibitors who occupied more than 50,000 square meters of space (68% growth). If past experience is any guide, then this indicates that Project Qatar 2012 will be impressive!

GO: Project Qatar takes place at the Doha Exhibition Centre from April 30 to May 3, 2012. To find out more, log on to www.projectqatar.com.

14

FACT QATAR APRIL

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CULTURE

Taking place alongside Project Qatar:

Heavy Max 2012 MOREOVER, Heavy Max 2012, the 5th international exhibition for heavy machinery, will run concurrently with Project Qatar 2012. This show, attracting massive numbers of manufacturers and suppliers, is the place where the products meet the demand of a billion-dollar-value construction market. Exhibitors will include heavy machinery technology & equipment; cranes & tower cranes; tractors; loaders & skid loaders; lifting appliances & conveyors; formwork & scaffolding; construction vehicles & equipment; mining machines; and machines & plants.

Some statistics about the projects in Qatar planned for completion by 2022: Development projects worth US$160 billion are planned for the World Cup. Qatar’s US$35 billion railroad plans will be ready.

The number of hotels will rise to 240, with over 90,000 rooms.

12 stadiums will be ready to seat over half a million people.

The US$4 billion Qatar-Bahrain causeway will be completed.

Over US$20 billion will be spent on building and expanding roads.

Qatar’s current total ongoing projects are valued at more than US$250 billion.

Qatar StoneTech 2012 QATAR Stone Tech 2012, the International Stone and Stone Technology Show, will bring together top distributors, suppliers, manufacturers, agents and engineers from a number of countries worldwide to constitute one of the sector’s biggest venues in Qatar and the region, offering several lucrative opportunities for key players and covering the following technologies, equipment and products: Cutting, polishing and handling equipment; marble finished products; natural stone; quarrying, processing and installation equipment; stone blocks, slabs and finished products, stone products and technology; and transport, hoisting and packaging materials.

FACT QATAR APRIL

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CULTURE New Doha International Airport...and this is only half of it

NOT A FLIGHT RISK

New Doha International Airport

THE Gulf is currently going through a serious case of airport envy, with each country vying to have the most important hub in the Middle East. As offerings go, the New Doha International Airport definitely has statistics on its side. 24 million passenger capacity per year, 40 gates, 22 hardstands, and 500,000 square meters. One of its runways will be one of the the longest commercial runways in the world. Not to mention a 100-room hotel and a passenger train with two terminals to transfer travellers from the airport to the city. This is all confirmed, not hearsay or press release jargon. Companies have signed contracts. Workers are deeply entrenched. Things are happening.

The design itself is where the country is once again striking out on new ground with an intentional mixture of the modern and the traditional, based around an interlocking set of arches. While not the biggest/tallest/highest structure in the world, it does stand a very good chance being the most attractive airport in the region. And that’s fine with us.

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Undeniably futuristic, the design opts for style over record-breaking

A BRIDGE OF NATIONS

The Friendship Bridge Creating a road link to Bahrain might not seem like the golden ticket to global success, but Bahrain is not only the most liberal country in the Gulf (i.e. least likely to deport you), it’s also a gateway to Saudi Arabia and the greater Middle East. Ch-ching!

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CULTURE

A transparent structure, just like financial institutions should be. Gettit?

MONEY NEVER SLEEPS, BUT PEOPLE DO

Barwa Financial District

IN a somewhat clunky metaphor, the Barwa Financial District’s press blurb describes its material choices thus: “Since architecture for banks and financial institutions call for transparency, the Financial District employs designs characterised by glass, chrome, stainless steel, and premium ceramics and stone detail.” It may be a little conspicuous, but the spirit of innovation is alive and kicking. This spiral of financial facilities mixed with residential opportunities will undoubtedly be one of THE addresses of Qatar when finished.

A central open area pays homage to traditional Arabian homes

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CULTURE

IN GOOD COMPANY

Qatar Foundation IMAGINE a company formed purely for the improvement of a nation. Not one that claims to be, but is actually trying to commercialise people’s desire to improve. Imagine a company as close to being purely altruistic as is possible in this world, and you’re close to understanding the impetus behind the Qatar Foundation.

Founded in 1995 to focus on education, scientific research and community development, the initiative’s first major achievement has been Education City, which houses Virginia Commonwealth University, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Texas A&M University at Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown School of Foreign Service in Qatar, and Northwestern University in Qatar. Not a meagre collection of international institutions, you will agree.

The foundation can also lay claim to the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), a research and development hub and Qatar’s first free trade zone, inaugurated in March 2009.

Tenants include ExxonMobil, Shell, Total, RollsRoyce, EADS and Microsoft.

On the community side, the foundation is responsible for creating, among other things, the 101-member Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra; The Doha Debates, filmed at Education City and broadcast by BBC World; and Stars of Science, a reality show featuring young Arab innovators who compete to transform their ideas to marketable products.

The list goes on to include a series of joint ventures, which alone would probably make it the largest contributor to the country’s development. For example, the new Qatar National Convention Centre (right) is one of their investments, as is Vodafone Qatar, Bloomsbury Qatar Foundation Publishing, and Fitch Qatar, a joint venture design company that creates brands and develops corporate identities for businesses and other organisations.

In all, there has rarely been such a wholesome, generous, and selfless (not to mention well-funded) dedication to a country’s social development. With foundations like these, Qatar’s future looks set to be able to grow very tall indeed.

The Science And Technology Park... already home to some of the world’s biggest brands, and another wavy roof, is there a trend here?

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Brasser

CULTURE Roots? Branches? Waterslides? Who cares when the architecture is this impressive! The Qatar National Convention Centre gets our vote for most interesting new building in the Middle East!

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CULTURE

IF YOU BUILD IT

Lusail City

Every Gulf country has it’s own mega-development, and Lusail City is Qatar’s. Just north of Doha is not only Qatar’s largest domestic real estate project, it represents a new way of thinking about the environment in which 190,000 residents, 170,000 workers, and 90,000 visitors will live, work and play. Technically Lusail City will not be a part of Doha, but will complement it as a

whole new town. Its shining light will be its commitment to protect the natural environment and community health on every level.

As it encompasses not only new residential, commercial, and retail opportunities, it also offers a full array of community needs, complete with schools, hospitals, and entertainment and gathering centres. Subtle, Lusail is not, but ground-breaking nonetheless.

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?

Katara Cultural Village

Katara’s amphitheatre has epic written all over it. Not literally, but that would be interesting!

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While already finished, and therefore technically not a part of the future, the Katara cultural village is only going to brighten the future of Doha. The Doha Film Festival last year proved that Qatar can hit well above its weight in cultural events, and that was thanks to Katara’s awesome facilities.

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BURJ QATAR

Doha Convention Centre Tower

While this building, when conceived, would have been the tallest tower in the world, the Burj Khalifa since put paid to that. However the building, shaped like a tapering obelisk, will house offices on the lower levels, apartments, a hotel and penthouse residences on the upper floors.

The particular addition that piqued

our interest was at the very top; a planned private club will occupy a 60 m (200 ft) high glass cylinder surrounded by extensions of tower’s facade and supported by a structural helix. We are very much looking forward to having a cocktail on the 105th floor, but we may have to wait awhile as the construction is currently on hold.

We want to shake the hand of the architect who said “Let’s put a huge slinky on the top!”

THE ORYX EXPRESS

Doha Metro Network

THIS 300 km metro rail network covering Greater Doha will link all major Olympic venues, villages and the hotels district, as well as the New Doha International Airport and the Doha Port.

It will be made up of 4 lines and 98 stations. They will link locations such as Education City and West Bay, Lusail Urban Development Area, Doha Airport and Business and Conference Center. With an expected completion of the first line in 2016, we can not wait!

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CULTURE

How long before Hollywood comes knocking to use this building in a blockbuster?

Probably Mission Impossible 7

CONCRETE DESERT ROSE

Qatar National Museum

Domes are the new black...

JEAN Nouvel, the architect who has designed the new Qatar National Museum says “it will become Qatar’s voice of culture, delivering a message about the metamorphosis of modernity and the beauty that happens when the desert meets the sea.” And when you look at the designs for the iconic building, scheduled for completion in 2014 you can’t help but believe him.

The interiors will echo the interiors of bedouin tents, while thermal buffer zones will keep the 86,000 square feet of permanent gallery space cool.

The silhouette of the project will push the Doha skyline even further into the realms of sciencefiction. Stamping the country’s futuristic intentions on the region and the world.

Just as Nouvel’s design appears as if it is growing out of the ground, so does the spirit of the development bring the evolution of the country’s cultural scene.

The future’s bright, the future’s curved...

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CULTURE

LIFE’S A BEACH

Nikki Beach Hotel

IF there is one indication that a country is on the map, it’s when world-famous leisure brands like Nikki Beach choose it for a new super-luxurious hotel and beach club. And thankfully, this stunning development is one we’re not going to have to wait long for. The Nikki Beach Hotel will be opening on the Pearl - Qatar in June of this year.

Already awarded Best Design Hotel in the Middle East in 2011 by the AAA 5 star diamond award, this US$45 million five-star lifestyle boutique hotel is just what Qatar’s more discerning residents have been waiting for - place where you can both relax and party, and do it in the utmost style!

Now doesn’t this just look like the kind of place where you could lose a whole weekend?

THREE RINGS TO RULE THEM ALL

The Pearl - Qatar

Most artist’s illustrations overestimate projects, but this captures The Pearl perfectly...

WITH the corniche dominating the majority of Doha’s coastline, it’s fallen to The Pearl Qatar to fly the flag for waterfront living. And what a flag it’s flying. With a fledgling community already beginning to buzz about the prestigious address, and progress apace along the development, The Pearl is very much the first name that comes to mind when residents think of Qatar’s top place to live. The development is winning awards as it grows, and also winning some of the world’s top retail brands such as Calvin Klien and Salvatore Ferragamo, and top gastronomic brands such as Gordon Ramsey’s. Mmmm, tasty.

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CULTURE

WINGS OF CHANGE

World Cup 2022

WITH the Qatar bid being deemed to have ‘high operational risk’, it was as much a shock to us all in Qatar as it was to the rest of the world that we won the bid.

However, won it we did. And the tsunami of international criticism and allegations was to be expected. Here in the FACT Penthouse we think the more criticism the better. With 11 years until the tournament, the more complaints that arise, the more solutions that will be found. For that reason (and 75 billion others) there’s no doubt that the 2022 World Cup will be stellar. The only problem in the run-up is going to be hype-fatigue.

Unfortunately, we’re going to be one of those media outlets feeding the hype, because quite frankly, we can’t wait.

The various concerns are all surmountable. Alcohol? Fully available in fan-zones. Heat? If it’s not moved to Winter, the stadia will be cooled.

Israel? Is welcome if they qualify.

Infrastructure? Qatar’s pulled off an Asian Games, and Asian Cup in record time, without a hitch. And there’s that $75 billion budget that’s been put aside. If that doesn’t cover it, then the World Cup is overpriced!

The donated stadiums should go some way to appease the ‘white elephant’ arguments. The only outstanding niggle is the idea of somewhat misplaced priorities - is a World Cup the best way to spend $75 billion dollars? If, by 2022, it turns Qatar into the global icon it wants to become, then maybe it is.

The Doha Port stadium...typically low key, right?

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Um Slal Stadium...the one that looks gold

Al-Khor Stadium...the one that’s most Arabian

Sports City Stadium...the one that looks most futuristic

Doha Port Stadium...the one in the water

Lusail Stadium..the biggest one, with 86,250 capacity

Khalifa International Stadium...the one that already exists but is being improved

Al Rayyan Stadium...the one with the video wall around it

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ARTS

KEEPING QATAR’S EYES, EARS AND MINDS IN SHAPE

THIS MONTH YOU MUST...

p28: Artist Jennifer Pinder p32: Choice Tunes p34: On Screen

Tangled, Threaded Mess

Doha-based artist Jennifer Pinder!

(see p28)

READ

Micro

by Michael Crichton & Richard Preston

A new science-fiction thriller. (see p37)

HEAR

Ceremonials

by Florence & the Machine

An absolute masterpiece from the British singer/ songwriter... (see p32)

WATCH Lockout

The new Guy Pearce action flick, described as Taken set in outer space! (see p34)

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ARTS

Tangled Threaded Mess Jennifer Pinder is a Dohabased artist who is already making waves on the local arts scene. Jaqcwi Campbell finds out more…

S

trands of deep reds cross over electric blues, and greens weave amongst what seems to be a coloured chaos against a flat black canvas. In this tangled mess lies a strategic pattern; each pigment has a start and finish – a final destination that creator, Jennifer Pinder, has not yet finalized.

The blonde-haired Australian looks light and put together against the rumbling discord of her stillin-progress artwork. Dressed in a clean silver tie, knotted over a crisp white collared shirt and jeans, she welcomes the guest inside her home in Doha Compound. “Welcome,” she says as she opens the door to her light-filled corridor, where a sizable painting of detailed spirals of red transparent circles also greets the visitor.

Once in, the villa resembles a small-town gallery, a liveable nest where artists showcase their works and finished projects. The only difference is that only one artist is featured here, and this gallery is her actual home.

At every turn there are enormous canvases, some splashed with a variety of colours and shapes, and others restrained to one tint and a shape so deeply textured that one has to stand intimately close in order to discover a form (dotted clumps of oil paint that form an x’s or o’s, or the only smooth surface of a

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ARTS

Doha is the colour of dust, but the sea is amazing and the ocean is magnificent

yellow spiked piece that outlines a cross).

Besides in her home, her art has been displayed in galleries and hotels across the world, from Sydney to Italy, Doha and more. Her work is now being showcased in New York City at Agora Gallery. In 2011, Pinder had her first Middle East exhibit entitled Unique Perspectives at the Grand Hyatt Doha.

The Doha-based artist moved with her husband, Sam and son, Luca to Qatar in 2009. “Doha is the colour of dust, but the sea is amazing and the ocean is magnificent, “ she says of the city’s palette.

She had the same feelings of Qatar that she had of seeing the Australian wilderness for the first time. “When I first saw the Aussie outback, I thought it was dull. And then after a couple of days, I found it fantastic.”

After seeing beyond the obvious, details of the land beautified the scene for Pinder - the curves of the rocks, the way the sun hits the orange features of the earth and the stillness of the space.

The same goes for Doha. Within the beige of the city’s landscape, there are surprises ready to pop out and be discovered. “I’m not interested in changing anything around here. Doha is a crossroads of new and old.”

Then she pauses. There is one thing she would change. “What I would FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 29

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really like to see is an open mind ‘everything is ok, you’re doing fine’ about modern art. In Doha when it that was around me.” The spikes are comes to modern art, it’s not really formed with a jolt of movement and on the agenda.” She wants to see then pulled up by fingertips. When more of the community embracing the light hits the spikes, it slightly the local modern artists, filling manipulates the eye. Are the spikes Doha homes with contemporary glimmering? Is the painting a mix of art that add colour and balance. silver and black? Then a shadow... no “Balance helps honesty, embraces the painting is black... But then light truth and gives calm.” Balance and hits it again and all of a sudden you calm are constant themes when feel the painting has grown in a mere Pinder explains six seconds! the process of her “I want my work. The more paintings to be I wanted to disarray or complex constantly surprising. show the the painting, the They need to be more therapeutic the discussed, talked deception of process is for her. about. It moves me to ‘everything She painted her see someone look at is ok, you’re current ‘tangled my work, study it, and doing fine’ threads’ after then be drawn back coming back from to it again after they that was her New York City walk away because around me. opening in February. they suddenly see “If I’m stressed out something new or the about something, light changes their my work will be perspective,” Pinder really detailed,” Pinder says as she states in her artist biography. describes “Freedom”, a painting “Things are not what they seem. engulfed in a multitude of colourful People have an idea of what they see, dots that create a pattern of waves and it can be completely different – each dot represents a significant from reality,” she says. “Being period of her life. imperfect is absolutely important. I Spikes, a collection of pieces that live in a world of routine. It has to uses clumps of oil paint to form be room for imperfection. If not, spikes on canvass, was created we’ll all go crazy.” after she suffered a miscarriage. “I Pinder’s work usually seats on wanted to show the deception of 150cms by 150cms canvasses steeped

30

in vibrant colours. When asked why she only paints large scale, her answer is simple and without hesitation. “Big has more impact.”

Humble Beginnings

Before Pinder became a professional artist, she was a boutique owner, and before that she was one of five children in a three-bedroom home in her native Melbourne. She says that art and craft were part of everyday life growing up. Mom painted still life, dad was always constructing something and the kids kept busy drawing, painting and imagining.

Speaking with Pinder, there’s an obvious passion for modern art that she doesn’t share for the more traditional art forms. She says that artwork should be an artist’s emotion – the more voice the better the modern art. “If you’re copying a landscape, you’re copying a landscape. If the picture is within and it comes out on canvas, it’s a deep emotion,” she says. “Abstract art lets you take on what emotion you want to take without being told.”

First attracted to fashion, Pinder owned a fashion boutique called Water and Rat. But it was working as a Sales Manager at a high-fashion department store, Georges Australia, where the impact of quality fabrics, detailed textures and strong colours still reflects in her work today.

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And it wasn’t until she unsuccessfully tried to commission a friend to paint a piece for her home 15 years ago that prompted her to paint. Her friend convinced her to paint her vision herself (orange fabric stretched across canvas)– a challenge per se, and one thing Pinder loves is a good challenge.

“Love”, a massive black piece in her dining room, is dotted with a series of tic-tac-toe games, is part of Pinder’s Why series. On her website, she describes the piece: ‘“Love” the all-powerful “Why”. This is the most confident and absolute of all “The Whys”. This work is a giant noughts and crosses game I played with my husband. It was humorous, competitive and yet, also complacent at times.”

Artist Block

Pinder remembers a time after her career took off when there was 18 months of a blank canvas – she had the dreaded artist’s block! She couldn’t sleep, she felt emotionally drained and her career came to an unexpected halt. “You can have 12 months of nothing and three months of madness. It felt demoralizing because I had this successful career before that. I had to eat a lot of humble pie.”

Luckily the rot ended with a commission in Sydney for a white and blue spike painting. “It was just enough to get me out of the hole.”

The story may be a reflection of her painting, or perhaps advice to upcoming artists at a stoplight in their careers. “Don’t walk away. Just stand back.

It can be a mind f***, but it may point you in the right direction.” Whatever it is, there’s little argument that Pinder’s life is a tangled web of stress, calm, life, love, fashion and whatever else is in the cookie jar.

GO: You can find more about Jennifer Pinder and her work on her website – www.pinderartworks.com

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ARTS

NEW ALBUMS, ARTISTS, AND AUDIOPHONICS

CHOICE TUNES

In Association with Virgin Megastore, Villaggio Mall and Landmark Mall, Doha

Indie Pop

On your marks... get set... SING!

Ceremonials

By Florence & The Machine WHAT’S IT LIKE:

After a wildly successful first album, Lungs, which held the number two spot on the UK albums chart for its first five weeks before reaching number one after 28 weeks, Flo & the Machine return with this, their second studio album.

After the hype surrounding the singer and her assembled musicians, Ceremonials debuted at number one in the UK. And it becomes clear why this is the case when you begin to listen to the album. Florence’s hauntingly powerful vocals overlay an eclectic mix of sometimes jarring, sometimes soothing melodies that always keep you on your toes, and always keep you wanting more!

‘What the Water Gave Me’ is a phenominally catchy track with a beautifully folky chorus, and its mesmerising effect can be shown in the way it was belted out by crowds of thousands at every concert she performed over the past six months, and by the fact that it managed to chart without actually having a physical release.

Few artists in the music industry today are as original and talented as this lady, and few albums released these days leave you wanting more like this one does.

A

Who knows?

Pop/Rock

Rock

Biophilia

Fallen Empires

Time of my Life

By Björk

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

After a four-year hiatus, left-field singer and songwriter Björk returns with her eighth LP, Biophilia.

The album boasts the weird and wonderful poetic verse and discordant melodies that we’ve come to expect from the Icelandic singer, but if you think she’s getting predictable in her strangeness, then think again.

Björk actually invented and comissioned the building of completely novel musical instruments with which to create this new album, so you are literally guaranteed something that you’ve never heard before this time round. In additon, she has released many of the songs on the album as iPad apps.

Biophilia is as deliciously weird as any of Björk’s previous work, and is therefore not for everyone, but those with an open mind who do like this kind of thing will appreciate the album and its inventiveness.

B+

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By 3 Doors Down

By Snow Patrol

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

Fallen Empires is the sixth studio album from British pop rock outfit Snow Patrol which, they claim, heralds a new artistic direction for the band.

If, by new direction, they simply mean “The same sound but with more synths layered over the tracks,” then yes, their claims are justified.

Fallen Empires is still undeniably Snow Patrol, but there is a definite flavour of electronica winding its way through the album, most notably on songs like the opening two tracks, ‘I’ll Never Let Go’, and ‘Called Out in the Dark’.

It gets progressively stronger as you work your way along the tracklist, until you reach the end with songs like ‘This Isn’t Everything You Are’, which is definitely a highlight.

Overall, a good album, but there is nothing groundbreaking to win over new fans.

B

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

American rockers 3 Doors Down are back with their fourth album bringing much more of the no-nonsense-yet-radio-friendly rock that made the group popular ever since their first hit, ‘Kryptonite’ way back in 2000.

However, the band have taken things a step futher with Time of My Life, with the album taking on an amplified, harder version of the sounds of their previous albums, which is no bad thing at all!

‘Time of My Life’ is a rowdy offering with heavy guitar riffs and gravelly vocals from singer Brad Arnold, giving you an introduction into what’s in store for the rest of the album. A slightly softer track in the form of ‘Race for the Sun’ gives the album a steady rhythm that is then broken up by ballads like ‘Back to Me’ which, while full of soul and emotion, still pack enough of a punch to avoid the band getting ‘cheesy’, but give the album a widespread appeal.

FO SH

Do een

ww

B

PE

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03:00 pm. - 10:00 pm.

vISIT

The highesT Number of exhibiTors uNder oNe roof

FOR FAST ENTRANCE TO THE SHOW, REGISTER ONLINE Don’t forget to bring your e-badge or your e-badge number to avoid queuing and entrance fees at the registration

For the updated list of Exhibitors, please visit www.projectqatar.com

www.projectqatar.com

PEARL SPONSOR:

INTEGRITY SPONSOR:

SILVER SPONSORS:

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ARTS

TOP FILMS SHOWING THIS MONTH IN QATAR

ON SCREEN “So, let me get this straight: you want me to break INTO a prison full of psychotic criminals? Oh, is THAT the time? Well, I’m awfully sorry, but I really must dash...”

Lockout

D: James Mather, Stephen St. Leger C: Guy Pearce, Maggie Grace, Peter Stormare, Joseph Gilgun

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

In this sci-fi thriller, main character Snow (Pearce) is wrongly convicted of espionage against the US. However, he’s offered a chance at freedom when the president’s daughter ends up trapped in an outer-space prison that has been taken over by its superviolent inmates. If he can rescue her, he goes free.

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WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING:

Guy Pearce is an underrated actor who has proven his versatility in a wide range of different roles, from drag queens to dastardly counts, so it’s good to see him given a good leading role in a promising sci-fi action flick.

The premise for the movie, though somewhat clichéd, nevertheless has a lot of good potential for visual effects, fight sequences and nail biting action, so if done well this could be a real doozy.

Director Mather openly acknowledges that this is basically Taken set in outer

space - a sentiment supported by the fact that the trapped daughter is none other than Maggie Grace, who was also the kidnapped daughter in Taken.

Overall, it looks like a whole lot of riproaring fun, with one-liners and set-pieces galore, so we won’t be missing it!

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The Cabin in the Woods D: Drew Goddard C: Richard Jenkins, Bradley Whitford, Chris Hemsworth

ARTS

Brett’s revelation that he had forgotten the toilet paper did not go down well with the group after an eight hour drive...

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

A group of five friends take a motorhome to a remote place in the mountains for a break, but soon begin to realise all is not what it seems. Their trip soon turns into a nightmare, and they have to fight for survival, and learn the truth about the cabin in the woods if they’re to have any chance of living. The truth turns out to be worse than they imagined...

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING:

The clever thing about this movie is that it keeps you guessing. At first, you think it’s going to be a Deliverance meets Hills Have Eyes kind if thing, where they’re dispatched one by one by psychotic hillbillies, largely thanks to the weird redneck gas station owner. Then, you think it’s going to be some sort of rich-guys-hunting-teenagers type of movie, but soon this is shot down too, until you truly begin to wonder what the hell is going on. And all the while you’re guessing, characters keep getting butchered, so by that device the tension is maintained somewhat.

Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow had become somewhat artificial by the eleventh sequel.

American Reunion sees the original cast of the franchise reassembled for a highschool reunion. Even though the American Pie movies got progressively worse each time over the years, this reunion of the gang from the much-loved first two should be worth a watch, especially with the Harold & Kumar directors Hurwitz and Schlossberg at the helm. Expect a heavily edited version in the Gulf though!

And American Pie comes full circle...

The Pirates: Band of Misfits

D: Peter Lord, Jeff Newitt C: Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek, Jeremy Piven, Brendan Gleeson

The Raven is a fictional account of the famous American author and poet Edgar Allan Poe (John Cusack), and named after his most famous poem.

In this atsmospheric thriller, the author attempts to track down a serial killer whose crimes mimic those in Poe’s stories. A raven makes an appearance somewhere, tapping at his chamber door...

That awkward moment when your hands accidentally brush together...

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

In this claymation animated movie, Pirate Captain (yes, that’s the character’s name) embarks on a quest to defeat his arch rivals Black Bellamy and the infamous lady pirate Cutlass Liz, a quest which takes him from the shores of the pirate haven Blood Island to the foggy streets of London. Lots of animated swashbuckling ensues.

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING: It’s been a while since we’ve seen any of this unique style of stop-motion animation first created by Aardman Animations, the studio behind the much loved Wallace and Gromit series, and we’re looking forward to this latest offering. Throw in some brilliant comic voice acting by Hugh Grant, Salma Hayek and Jeremy Piven, and you have what looks to be a truly winning formula.

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Now on APRIL 18, 2012

Q A T A R

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ARTS

QATAR’S BEST READS THIS MONTH BY GENRE

CHOICE WORDS

In Association with Virgin Megastore, Villaggio Mall and Landmark Mall, Doha

Science Fiction

Micro

By Michael Crichton & Richard Preston WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

A bunch of promising young scientists are invited on a trip to Hawaii for a microbiology conference.

However, once they get there, they are subjected to an experiment by an evil scientist who uses experimental technology to shrink them down to a halfinch in size.

They escape into the Hawaiian jungle, but it’s a case of out of the frying pan and into the fire, as they must now tackle giant insects and other hazards.

One by one the story’s antagonists are alternately torn apart by ants, carried off by bats, and other grisly deaths that the tinier creatures of nature must endure on a daily basis.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

As Michael Crichton died in 2008, this is a posthumous work, which was ‘finished off’ by Preston.

It is everything that you’d expect from Crichton, though - a bit of science mixed up with a lot of science fiction and an action storyline - Honey I Shrunk the Kids meets Jurassic Park.

It is VERY important when reading this book not to take it too seriously, because if you do, you will quickly be turned off by the often ridiculous narrative. However, if you B can suspend disbelief, you’ll be treated to a story that is thrilling and fun.

Comedy

Historical Fiction

Horror

The Man Who Forgot His Wife

Death of Kings

The Wolf Gift

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

By John O’Farrell

The Man Who Forgot His Wife follows the story of married father-of-two Jack Vaughan who is suddenly struck with a bout of amnesia and can’t remember anything about himself.

The story follows his journey as he attempts to rediscover who he is, and falls head-over-heels once again with his enstranged wife when he sees her again ‘for the first time’. Which is problematic, as she is already seeing someone else...

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

John O’Farrell has already proven his comedic writing skills with his previous book, The Best a Man Can Get. There are definite similarities between that one and this one, but this current offering definitely builds on his previous success.

The comedy and wit are definitely still there, but this time there is a lot more depth to the story, with a wider range of likeable characters, so that the book doesn’t revolve quite so much around the central character as last time.

The wife, Maddy, is a highlight of the book - a sharp and no-nonsense character who counteracts Vaughan’s flaky persona, B+ and daughter Dillie provides some true comedy value.

by Bernard Cornwell

The story follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg a warrior in Saxon England loyal to the king, who must fight to protect the Kingdom and hold it together as divisions between different factions threaten to tear it apart.

His love interest is the King’s daughter, Aethelflaed, who is a leader of her people as much as her father is.

Together, they fend off threats such as political intrigue and Viking raids.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

This is the sixth book in the Cornwell’s Saxon Chronicle series, and if you haven’t read the previous five, then you are strongly advised to do so before you read this one.

This isn’t because this book is unreadable if you don’t, but it is a fantastic piece of historical fiction, and reading the previous books will only enhance the experience.

The book excellently recreates the early days of Christian England in the 9th Century with a rich setting and a depth to the characters that will draw you in and fully immerse you in this ancient story heavily based on historical accounts of King Alfred’s rule.

If epic historical fiction is B+ your thing, then this series of books is for you.

By Anne Rice

Wealthy young college graduate Reuben Golding is dabbling in journalism as a freelancer while he decides what to do with his life.

Through his writing work, he ends up the dinner guest of a mysterious and enchanting older heiress at her relic-filled mansion.

During his visit, tragedy strikes and they are attacked, and he barely escapes with his life. However, he soon finds that his injuries have changed him, and he has been the recipient of the ‘Wolf Gift’.

WHAT’S IT LIKE:

Thankfully, after a brief spell in religious writing after reverting to Christianity, Anne Rice is back doing what she does best high horror fiction.

This story presents a much more glossy version of the werewolf concept. Rather than evil predators of the human race, they’re actually good guys who hunt bad guys... and then eat them. The book takes a while to pick up, however, and it’s not until late in the story that Rice finds her form.

Despite this, we hope that this is just the beginning of a new epic saga of novels C+ from Rice reminiscent of the Vampire Chronicles.

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TECHNOLOGY KEEPING THE PEOPLE OF QATAR STATE-OF-THE-ART

p40: Formula One Watches p42: The Lab p46: The Audi A6

The Watches of

Formula One We bring you a round up of some of the stunning timepieces that have chosen to align themselves with the glamorous sport of Formula One racing‌

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TECHNOLOGY

The Watches of

Formula One

As we head into the 2012 Formula One season, the promotional campaigns begin in earnest, as all the companies that have paid so many millions for a tiny sticker on the world’s fastest race cars seek to cash in on the brand association. And few campaign harder than the watch brands – who hasn’t seen the posters of Hamilton sporting his shiny silver timepiece? Read on for a round-up of the watches of Formula One…

Casio Edifice – Red Bull

Making a rather smart choice, Casio teamed up with the Championship and Constructors Title winners for 2010 and 2011, Red Bull Racing, to promote their Casio Edifice watch.

It features a display with dual-layer construction and a recessed, dynamic face design as well as a complex, intricate sub dial. Five motors mounted in the module control each hand independently, a concept that gave birth to the multi-function chronograph.

40

Hublot King – Formula One

Wearing the crown in this collection is the Hublot King, and not just because of its name. Hublot has been announced as the official watch of Formula One, tying its brand not to any individual team, but to the sport as a whole. Bernie Ecclestone famously lent his support to the watches when he was violently mugged and relieved of his own Hublot.

Rather than let the crime get him down, he showed strong character and no small sense of humour when he let Hublot use a picture of his battered face on the Hublot ads with the slogan, “See what people will do for a Hublot?” Hats off to you, Bernie!

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Tag Heuer – McLaren

TECHNOLOGY

Tag Heuer do NOT mess about when it comes to their brand ambassadors – Bollywood superstar Sharukh Khan, Hollywood super stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Cameron Diaz, and most relevant here, McLaren F1 drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button. Tag Heuer have a strong association with motorsports and motoring in general, with their range of Formula One watches, their Monaco line, and their SLR watches, which tie themselves to the famous Mercedes SLR cars. They even did a Lamborghini edition of their Meridiist mobile phone, although this is no longer in production.

Viceroy – Fernando Alonso As a Spanish watchmaker, their obvious choice for a brand ambassador in F1 would be the sport’s most famous Spaniard – former World Champion Fernando Alonso. This special edition Fernando Alonso watch comes with a mineral glass face, steel casing, a stopwatch, and is water resistant up to 50 metres. It is also the most affordable of all the watches here.

Oris – Williams F1 Swiss watchmakers Oris have teamed up with the Williams F1 team to produce a range of four WilliamsF1 Team chronographs. These are the most affordable watches of our field today, with prices in the hundreds rather than the thousands, though you can still expect a sapphire crystal face with anti-reflective coating, automatic winding with red rotor, which you can see at the back thanks to the transparent casing. Not bad at all!

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TECHNOLOGY

LAB TEST

Samsung Galaxy Nexus Available: TBC

LET’S kick this review off by stating the obvious: there is one phone, and one phone alone that Samsung is targeting with its line of Galaxy phones, and that is the indomitable Apple iPhone.

And Samsung have Apple worried, which is demonstrated by an ongoing court battle between the two tech giants. Actually, the word “war” would be more appropriate – as of October last year there were 19 ongoing lawsuits in 12 courts in 10 countries across four continents!

What does this mean for us, the consumer? Well, fierce battles between technology giants is only a good thing, as competition of this type means that they are constantly investing hundreds of millions of dollars in trying to outdo their competitors, which results in the incredible gadgetry we see hitting the shelves in electronics stores.

And this is Samsung’s latest gambit – the Samsung Galaxy Nexus. It is Samsung’s flagship smartphone, developed in partnership with Google using the latest incarnation of Google’s Android OS, Ice Cream Sandwich.

It’s the only device to be using Ice Cream Sandwich so far.

The Galaxy Nexus features a 4.65-inch 1280×720-pixel HD Super AMOLED PenTile curved glass

display; a dual-core 1.2 GHz 4460 processor with 1GB of RAM; a 1,750 mAh battery; 1.3 MP front camera and 5 MP rear camera (with zero shutter lag) capable of 1080p video with the rear camera and 720p with the front camera; 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS; barometer; and a choice of 16 GB or 32 GB of internal storage.

For starters, the Nexus costs quite a bit less than the iPhone 4S - around $100 dollars less online.

How that will translate to prices in the Gulf over time we can only wait and see. However, what is obvious is that Samsung have presented the Nexus as a phone that is practically the same as the iPhone, while at the same time being a more affordable alternative.

Now, what we really need to confirm is whether the Nexus is really as good as an iPhone. Initial impressions let the Nexus down – the external look and feel of the phone really supports its role as the ‘cheaper alternative’. Whereas the iPhone boasts a luxurious and

EMOTION

SAMSUNG GALAXY NEXUS EXPERIENCE-METER Happiest human ever

“The display is huge, bigger than the iPhone’s, and crystal clear”

“The Ice Cream Sandwich OS is great, especially when working with Google services. You can’t beat the price either!”

Very impressed

Pleased

Indifferent

“Exterior feel is plasticky, and not as good as the aluminium iPhone”

“Camera is ok, but lets it down slightly compared to the iPhone.”

Ouch!

PROS

TIME 42

solid-feeling aluminium casing, the Nexus has a plastic casing that doesn’t do justice to Samsung’s flagship smartphone.

When comparing the screens, however, the Nexus does actually trump the iPhone! While the picture quality of the two is as near as makes no difference – both are stunning in their sharpness and clarity – the Nexus boasts a 4.65inch screen to the iPhone’s 3.5 inches, and it extends further to the edges of the device making it seem even bigger. So, thus far it’s 1:1 to the two phones.

The second battle lost for the Nexus is in the camera. Whereas an iPhone has an 8MP camera at the rear, which is capable of taking excellently clear shots comparable to those of your average digicam, -Cheaper than the iPhone -Bigger screen

CONS

-Not so premium feel to the casing -Camera not as good as iPhone

A

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the Nexus falls behind with a 5MP rear cam that takes pictures that are often grainy. Ok for a camera phone, but not great like the iPhone.

When it comes to software, things get complicated. A 24-hour review of the phone really isn’t enough to truly explore all the facets of what is a highly sophisticated and capable gadget, but we at least got a strong impression.

For starters, you have to be quite tech-savvy to get it up and running – this probably isn’t one for the grandparents! As the software is still very new, all the online help resources haven’t quite caught up with the release yet, so it took a search on Google with “How to…” requests to find out how to get it all up and running.

For starters, if you’re using Mac OS, you’ll have to download an App called Android File Transfer on to your computer before you start listening to music or watching movies. Whether or not you’re a fan of iTunes determines whether this is an advantage or a drawback.

It’s MUCH simpler and more straightforward than iTunes, but doesn’t have the capabilities for organising music that iTunes offers.

TECHNOLOGY

Similar to an iPhone, there is a bit of faff before you can start using all the software features. For example, you’ll have to create a Google account and set it all up. This is because EVERYTHING is designed to sync with Google’s online services, mainly the search engine, Google Maps (which is used with the phone’s GPS navigation system and is really good!), Google Earth, YouTube, Google+ and Google Play (which is Google’s new combination of all its online entertainment services integrated). For example, when you take a picture, it has buttons right there that allow you to upload to Picasa, Google+, or even just send it as a message.

It’s also fast, really fast, completing practically any task almost instantaneously. Only two external buttons are the unlock button on the right side of the screen, and the volume button the left side.

Everything else is done through the touchscreen controls.

We mentioned in a review of an Andriod tablet not too long ago that the main advantage Apple devices had over Andriod were the apps, but this advantage has all but disappeared today, with hundreds of thousands of apps available on Android which make it on par with Apple now.

Instead of the app tab grid that iPhone uses, the Galaxy Nexus employs a widget system, where you can tap, hold and drag your favourite FINAL RESULTS apps to the widgets, personalising your home screen. This system is ostensibly a mere attempt to differentiate themselves from Apple, Samsung Apple but really the system Galaxy Nexus iPhone 4S is the same, with slight variations.

Price What it all boils down to is preference – some people will prefer the more premium look and Look/feel feel of the iPhone, as well as the Apple OS Screen software, whilst some will prefer the better price of the Nexus and Camera the Android Ice Cream Sandwich software, so it really is six of one and half a dozen of the other. Software However, the important thing is that the utter Apps dominance of the iPhone is over – Samsung are now competing on an equal footing, and we cannot wait to Final see the results of this Score technological rivalry!

The important thing is that the utter dominance of the iPhone is over – Samsung are now competing on an equal footing.

4

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TECHNOLOGY

LAB TEST

BOSE WIRELESS SPEAKER

Available: The Bose Store, Fifty One East

AS one of the world’s leading audio manufacturers, we’re interested in anything that Bose produce, whether it’s the audio system for an Audi, a Bluetooth headset, or this, the SoundLink, a wireless mobile speaker system.

The SoundLink is a portable speaker that can connect wirelessly to any Bluetooth-enabled device, be it your smartphone, your laptop or your iPad, and stream very highquality audio.

Now, it’s not the most compact Bluetooth speaker we’ve ever seen.

Nor is it the most attractive. At just under two inches thick and the size of your average paperback novel, it will fit into a large handbag, but only the bulkiest of laptop cases will manage it! The styling is simplistic, but not especially eye-catching.

The closable speaker cover that doubles as a stand is a nice touch, especially as it turns off the speaker automatically when closed, but the device really has an 80’s look to it that makes it seem a little dated.

The build quality feels sturdy and solid, though, as you’d expect from a Bose device. They claim that the device is built to withstand the rigors of daily use like no other product in its category. While our test of it

was about as rigorous as six hours sitting on a table playing Deadmau5 at high volume can be, you do get a feeling of solidity and durability from it that leads you to believe it can survive extended periods in backpacks, suitcases, etc., without too much bother.

However, now we get to the most important part: the sound. This is the most important part for two reasons. First, it’s an audio device.

Second, it is by far and away the most impressive thing about the SoundLink!

As we said before, it isn’t the first Bluetooth speaker, nor is it the smallest or best-looking. However, for its size, you will not get better audio quality from any other device we can think of, or from many devices much larger than it! The volume, clarity and quality of the sound are simply staggering when you look at the size of the gadget it’s

EMOTION

BOSE WIRELESS SPEAKER EXPERIENCE-METER Happiest human ever

Very impressed

“Oh my dear Lord, the sound! The SOUND!”

“Very easy to get things going. Just press a button to pair it up with your iPad.” “It’s pricey, but it’s worth it. Not the most compact Bluetooth speaker, but for its size, you simply won’t get better sound.”

Pleased

Indifferent

“It’s not the most snappy-looking thing we’ve ever seen.”

coming from.

The SoundLink Mobile speaker features Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) and a powerful antenna for a reliable wireless audio connection. Pairing takes moments, and wirelessly connecting to a smartphone or tablet is as easy as pressing one button on the speaker’s control panel.

It’s so easy to use. Simply plonk it down wherever you want to use it, pair it up with your iPhone, and play whatever you want from your iPhone – MP3s, Internet radio, or Spotify, and sit back and enjoy.

It’s easily capable of providing the music for a party in a medium-tolarge room.

The Lithium Ion battery is rated for three to four hours of use at high volumes, and possibly five at lover volumes, so it’s no slouch there, but there’s also a power cable if you’re indoors and want it to keep playing indefinitely.

There are no controls on the speaker, save the Bluetooth pairing button, because everything, including the volume, can be adjusted from your iPhone, which can work from a distance of up to about 30ft, although the connection gets a bit dodgy at bigger distances.

One let down is the lack of a microphone, that could have enabled the device to be used as a speakerphone, which would have just about made it perfect!

Ouch!

PROS

TIME 44

-Unbelievable sound quality -Durable

CONS

-Not much to look at -No microphone.

A

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Job Ad

WANTED Sales Manager, Qatar The successful candidate will have at least 3 years sales experience in Qatar, preferably in media sales. They will have a strong list of marketing contacts across the region and be able to demonstrate positive impact on sales revenue in their current position. They will thrive on deadlines, and only be happy when their calendar is full of client meetings. A strong pitcher and closer, the successful candidate will be proficient at sourcing new clients, contract negotiating and writing, and maintaining client relationships. They will be eager to explore new commercial opportunities in this Qatar-based position, and will understand the incentivising value of generous commission structures, be a motivated peopleperson and probably never stop talking.

Freelance Writers, Qatar Know a juicy story? Have a juicy contact? Want to write about Juicy Couture?

We’re looking for freelance writers to dig under the surface of Qatar and reveal the real side of our burgeoning state. We want true stories, exclusive interviews, investigative peices, and anyone with a sense of humour and an obsession for expression.

If you have all the above and more, please send your CV and covering letter to editor@factlive.com. Only successful candidates will be contacted for interview

2

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TECHNOLOGY

ALI DRIVER SAYS THAT

“The Audi A6 is a place where you WANT to spend time – it therefore makes heavy traffic bearable!”

Our Mystery Motoring Expert, Ali Driver, spent two full days in the Audi A6, and could happily have spent twenty more…

I

’ll start by saying that this isn’t with a lot more pull than you’d the first time I’ve experienced the expect from a naturally-aspirated 2.8l 2012 A6 – I was invited to Yas engine. It cruises along with all the Marina in Abu Dhabi a few months speed you’d need for the traffic-laden ago, where I drove both the 2.8l FSI streets of Doha, and has plenty extra and the supercharged 3.0 TFSI engine up its sleeve when you do fancy models. My impressions of both overtaking in a hurry. It sounds good were great, but the 2.8l model was too, rolling up its sleeves and letting obviously eclipsed somewhat by the out a throaty growl when you put hugely fun 3.0 TFSI at the time. your foot down.

We took the cars out for a one-hour However, the relatively small size jaunt around Abu Dhabi, and for a of the engine also means that the few twenty-minute A6 is very light on sessions on the Yas the petrol, which It retains Marina circuit, and isn’t an especially while I enjoyed both huge worry in the descriptions driving experiences region of like ‘sensible’ cheap-fuel immensely, there’s only the Gulf, but will be so much you can glean and ‘practical’, a pleasing prospect to from two hours spent the environmentallybut also in a car. conscious among makes firm So, when Audi Doha us. This is helped inroads into gave me the A6 2.8l to some extent by ‘desirable’.

FSI to use for two the auto-start/stop whole days, it was a function that shuts fantastic opportunity the engine down to really get a full-on when you bring the impression of the car away from car to a halt at traffic lights. However, the manufactured (albeit enjoyable) this function also started to get on experience of an official Audi test my nerves a little, so was thankfully drive event. switched off with the push of a Let me start by saying that, when it button… isn’t juxtaposed with the 3.0l TFSI, During my Audi trip to the Yas the 204hp 2.8l FSI is a fantastic Marina, the Yas Hotel experienced engine in its own right. It’s grunty, some technical difficulties, which

46

basically resulted in the extremely loud fire alarms going off in my hotel room at random intervals throughout the night, and therefore it was a somewhat haggard journalist who attended the Audi experience the following day.

However, as I said in my previous write-up, the interior of the Audi A6 was just the kind of place you want to be if you’re not feeling 100%. This opinion was only confirmed by my time spent in the A6 in Doha last month. On the day I picked it up, I started very early in the morning (5am wake-up), and had two full days of meetings all over Doha, including visits to QITCOM which involved navigating crowded car parks and even more crowded streets.

In essence, this was the perfect way to get a true feel for the A6, as this is exactly the type of schedule that many busy professionals will have, and busy professionals are exactly the type of person this car is aimed at.

The interior is cosy, comfortable, quiet and stylish, which is everything you’d want from a premium German automobile. The controls for the dashboard and the in-car entertainment are simple and straightforward, and don’t involve lots of faff like some other cars we could mention!

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The ride quality is a big improvement on older Audi models, which could sometimes be a little too firm. However, this added comfort hasn’t come at the expense of performance – the A6’s handling, as with any Audi model, is seriously segment leading stuff.

From the outside, the 2012 A6 adds the extra ‘bling’ factor that previous models sorely lacked. While it remains understated, it boasts a level of style that will begin to win over some customers from chief rivals, the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes E-Class.

The front grille is larger and more sporty, and the headlights look more aggressive than on its predecessor, with the stylish LED framed look rounding things off nicely. The selection of alloy wheels is the icing on the cake – it’s extensive, and you can opt for one of the forged aluminium low-profile options, all of which look fantastic.

This is the fourth generation of the Audi A6, and is by far the best yet, in performance (as you would expect), but also with style (which isn’t always a given with cars these days). As I already mentioned, the two days I spent in the A6 involved very stressful and busy schedules.

However, the stress was reduced a great deal by travelling from place to place in the Audi A6. It you’re doing a lot of driving, then doing it in style and comfort can only improve matters.

The A6 does everything it should – it’s good-looking, performs well and it’s extremely comfortable. It takes one very important step over its predecessor: It retains descriptions like ‘sensible’ and ‘practical’, but also makes firm inroads into ‘desirable’. What else do you need? Well, the Audi S6, with the 420hp twin-turbo 4.0l V8, perhaps…

Who is Ali Driver?

1. He lives in Qatar and says he grew up hard on the mean streets of Doha, but we think he’s actually from a rich family with lots of cars, and won’t admit it!

2. He says his car skills are all self-taught, but we’re sure we’ve seen a course certificate from the Losail International Circuit on his wall.

3. He drives cars better than anyone we know (but don’t ever tell him).

4. He claims to be able to change a regular car tyre in under 4 minutes, but we’re sure that’s only when his wife helps him.

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SUBSCRIPTION CAMPAIGN Are you a keen FACT and Ohlala! reader?

This is your chance to not only receive both magazines to your door for a year but if you subscribe this month you will automatically be entered into a draw to win some fantastic prizes, including...

A holiday in Thailand!

You could enjoy the breathtaking views and ultra-luxurious surroundings of the Samui Sunset Villa, in Koh Samui, Thailand.

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The Essence of Style

29/03/2012 01:56

FASHION

p50: the Puma Creative Factory

FIGHTING THE BATTLE AGAINST BAD TASTE IN QATAR

Mix, Match, Design, Create A Sportswear label PUM are giving the region’s e fashion enthusiasts th eir th te opportunity to crea e very own version of th ugh classic T7 jacket thro e tiv ea their PUMA Cr Factory Built for One competition…

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FASHION

Mix, Match, Design, Create Sportswear label PUMA are giving the region’s fashion enthusiasts the opportunity to create their very own version of the classic T7 jacket through their PUMA Creative Factory Built for One competition…

P

UMA is launching its ‘Built for One’ T7 campaign across the Middle East as part of the 40 year celebrations of the classic T7 Track Jacket. The design project is a collaboration with regional artists, bloggers, musicians and filmmakers to design and create their own version of the iconic T7 Track Jacket at an exclusive workshop event in Dubai.

Here the select few will put their creative savvy to work and build a bespoke PUMA Creative Factory T7 jacket from an assortment of materials and fabrics.

In advance of the launch, PUMA is also working with local fashion designers Zayan Ghandour, Emperor 1688, Tahir Sultan, Essa and Alanoud Badr to create their own one-of-a-kind interpretations of the T7 Jackets, which will be exhibited exclusively at the PUMA Creative Factory “Built For One” T7 activation at SOLE DXB on 27 April, 2012.

Detailing their involvement via their personal

50

communities and social networks, the ambassadors will be participating in an interactive T7 workshop on 26 April, 2012 in Dubai.

Now, we all love wasting time on the Internet, so here’s YOUR chance to get creative while you’re on there!

This is your chance to design your own virtual, one-of-a-kind jacket, through the PUMA Creative Factory “BUILT FOR ONE” Facebook Application.

All you need to do is type “Built For One” into the Facebook search bar and you can instantly access the app, and start messing around with it before uploading your jacket on to the gallery.

Trust us - it is so addictive that you will end up spending hours on there trying out different designs, colours and patterns. From there, your design will be put to a public vote, with six winners from across the region being selected.

If your jacket ends up being one of the most popular, you could be chosen to head to the UAE for an all-expenses-paid trip to take part in the exclusive PUMA Creative Factory T7 Workshop, where you will get to design your unique T7 jacket on the ground with the PUMA ambassadors from across the Middle East, and take away your bespoke jacket as a memento of your experience.

During your trip, you’ll be taken to the PUMA Middle East Headquarters and stand next to selected designers, artists, filmmakers, fashion bloggers and BIG names, who have all

collaborated with PUMA for this event.

As if you’re not spoilt enough, you will get VIP status at SOLE DXB, the Middle East’s Sneaker Summit, where you can get your hands on limited edition collections from across the globe.

This jacket has serious history. Born in 1968, it made legendary status by being on the backs of famous athletes, rock stars and artists (seen on the Beastie Boys and football legend Pele).

Puma strives to become the most desirable and sustainable sports lifestyle company ever so the T7 even makes the ‘environmentally friendly’ cut as its made from 100% recycled polyester.

Don’t miss your chance to become part of fashion history. Come on - log on right now and customise a classic!.

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FASHION

FACT catches up with one of Qatar’s PUMA Brand Ambassadors, Carla Mallari, to find out a little more about her involvement in the PUMA Creative Factory…

Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you do?

A. I’m a fashion enthusiast! I do a number of things – I run a street-style blog based in Doha, called nomad*. I graduated from VCUQatar, majoring in Fashion Design and I’ve started a little clothing line called Carla Mari. I model from time to time for runway shows and print. I was a PR and marketing coordinator for Impression, a small luxury multi-brand boutique.

Plus, recently I’ve been styling models for photo shoots and soon for local TV shows!

Q. Why do you think you have been selected as a PUMA Creative Factory T7 brand ambassador for Qatar?

A. I’m all over the fashion scene in Doha, as you can tell! I’ve got such a passion for what I love to do and there’s no stopping me.

Q. What does it mean to you to be a PUMA Creative Factory T7 brand ambassador?

A. For starters, I think the reason why I was chosen to be a brand ambassador for Puma in Doha is because my flair for fashion has been noticed. I’m honoured to be one of

the ambassadors, and this proves the saying: Find something you love to do and somehow you will be rewarded for it!

Q. Where will you be looking for inspiration for your T7 jacket design, i.e. work, fashion, film, magazines, nature etc?

A. In the streets of Doha!

Q. What do you think your background can bring to the design of the classic T7 jacket?

A. My aesthetics are pretty quirky, I love various colours and mixing prints, and this reflects upon the number of things I do! I studied fashion design and it would be great to be able to incorporate some deconstructed details onto it – give it an alternative, almost avant-garde look. Let’s see what I could get away with!

Q. Which of the other ambassadors are you most looking forward to meeting in Dubai and why?

A. I’d love to meet everyone, really!

People from all over the world fascinate me. Everyone comes from a unique background and I’d like to learn about where they come from.

It’s part of the reason why I started

my street-style blog, it wasn’t just all about fashion – it was also a study of society for me.

Q. The regional competition to win a place in the T7 Creative Factory is open to anyone to enter. What do you think the PUMA panel will be looking for in their winners?

A. I think the Puma panel will be looking at a candidate who understands creative thinking and someone who incorporates it into their daily lives.

My aesthetics are pretty quirky, I love various colours and mixing prints ... it would be great to able incorporate some deconstructed details onto it – give it an alternative, almost avant-garde look.

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INDEX For anyone who’s uttered the words: ‘There’s nothing to do in Qatar.’ We really, really beg to differ...

FINAL WORD

What’s your

QATAR

IQ

QATAR IQ - p74

Our sly monthly round-up of recent Qatar news Qatar march Issue.indd 53

S.A.T’s? M.B.A’s? Pah! In Qatar, only

one test score really matters: your Qatar

IQ!

The massive Project Qatar expo takes place in Doha

this month. Do you: a go along and check out the latest developments in a booming b take the biggest stand available to display the top-grade goodsconstruction industry? your company supplies? c why on EARTH would I want to attend an exhibition with

a bunch of guys swapping stories about

concrete?

The Sealine Cross-Country Rally hits Qatar’s deserts this month. Do you:

a go along and get thoroughly dusty watching monstrously

desert?

modded racing machines do battle with

b go along and take part, as you’ve entered your own team c why on EARTH would I want to go and sit in the desert andin the rally?

watch noisy go karts turn fossil fuels

toxic fumes?

the

into

H

ed Kandi will be bringing a little flavour of Miami to Doha’s shores this month at the InterContinental Hotel. Do you:

a buy a standard ticket and spend the night in the thick of the crowd dancing all night long? b buy a VIP ticket and feel superior as you lord it over everyone c why on EARTH would I want to go and watch overpaid glorifiedelse on the raised VIP podiums?

when I could stay home and watch Grey’s

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Anatomy instead?

juke boxes play other people’s music

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VENUE REVIEW

AROMA

SPORTS

NIGHTS

EATS

Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha (Tel: 4405 3333) QR400-500 per person

BODIES

LEISURE

LAST month we had the distinct pleasure of dining at Aroma restaurant at the Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha. This is the hotel’s fine dining European brasserie, with a modern, and yet stylish and elegant décor that is both inviting and relaxing. Warm mood lighting combines with the pleasant ambiance to create the perfect setting for a fantastic meal.

And, as luck would have it, we also happened to stop by on the night that a new month-long special menu based entirely on truffles was launched. Unfortunately, by the time you read this, that menu will be finished, but we can still tell you all about it and make you jealous!

In all honesty, we weren’t too sure about truffles at all, having never tried them before, but at the insistence of the lovely representatives from the hotel, we gave a couple of the dishes a try. First off were a truffle linguini and a truffle risotto to start. To our pleasant surprise both dishes were delicious, with the distinct taste of the truffles really complementing the dishes. However, it was the rich and creamy truffle risotto that really stole the show!

For mains, we were treated to the Wagyu beef tenderloin from the restaurant’s special Wagyu menu (again, at the insistence of our hosts, of course, and the good news is that

54

the Wagyu menu is permanent), and the hammour.

The hammour was delicious, succulent and tender, with a delightful sauce complementing it perfectly, but once again, a dish was upstaged!

However, it wasn’t by the Wagyu steak, although the steak was also extremely good, as expected. It was actually the mashed potatoes that were prepared with celery, truffle oil and other ingredients that we failed to identify.

It was absolutely phenomenal! When combined with the melt-in-yourmouth Wagyu tenderloin, it created one of the best steak dishes we’d experienced in a long time!

There was more to come, however – the assiette of passion fruit that came for dessert was amazing, but, yet

again, it was upstaged. This time, it was the chocolate fondant, which was divine, bursting open and spewing forth the rich creamy chocolate filling, which was complemented excellently by the home made ice cream.

Overall, we would think it fair to say that the Aroma fine dining experience is one of the best to be had in Doha, but in all fairness, you’re going to have to pay for it! And if you missed the opportunity to sample the truffle menu, don’t despair!

The Kempinski’s Executive Chef Jonathan Spiteri creates a new oneoff menu each month, depending on what special ingredients he has managed to acquire, so there will always be something a little special on the cards when you visit!

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RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE CHECKLIST :

50/50 N Y

RESERVATIONS 1. Was the telephone operator clear and friendly?

2. Did they give the impression they are keen for our custom?

AT THE DOOR 3. Were we greeted pleasantly?

4. Were we seated quickly (assuming we were on time)?

5. Were we escorted to our table?

ONCE YOU’RE SEATED 6. Were we greeted promptly by the waiter?

7. Did he/she maintain a professional and cordial attitude?

8. Did he/she seem happy to have us there?

9. Were we told any specials/promotions/useful information before we’d made up our mind?

10. Did we feel at ease to order at our leisure?

SERVICE / STAFF 11. Did the waiter know the menu and/or wine list and explain them in an articulate way?

12. Was he/she well groomed and at ease at the table?

13. Did he/she answer questions completely or find out the answers promptly?

14. Did he/she remove and replace plates and utensils between courses?

15. Did he/she put the plates in front of the right person?

16. Did he/she wait until everyone is finished before removing the plates?

17. Did he/she check in a timely manner to see if we needed anything?

18. Did he/she perform his/her overall duties in an unobtrusive manner?

19. Did he/she communicate with you freely and voluntarily (including any delays)?

20. Did he/she listen and act accordingly to your requests/complaints?

21. Did he/she correctly judge how much attention our table wanted?

THE MENU 22. Was the type and design clear and unconfusing?

23. Did the written description reflect what was on the plate?

24. Was there abundant choice?

25. Did the food prices reflect the standards the surroundings and service might suggest?

FOOD 26. Were all the dishes correct?

27. Did the plates have a consistent style?

28. Was there an attempt to make the food visually appealing?

29. Was everything cooked as ordered?

30. When we took your first bite, was our immediate reaction pleasant?

31. Did the appropriate flavours stand out as described on the menu?

32. Were the flavours bright as opposed to dull?

33. Were the flavours integrated as opposed to conflicting (i.e unintended overwhelming tastes)?

34. Was the consistency and structure of the dish as described?

35. Were we, space permitting, inspired to eat as much as we could?

36. Did the dish compare favourably to similar dishes we’ve had at other restaurants?

ATMOSPHERE 37. Was the decor well-maintained and clean?

38. Was the decor a stand-out feature of the venue?

39. Was the music / noise well managed?

40. Did the place smell clean and fresh?

41. Was the smell notably pleasing?

42. Were the tables large enough to accomodate all the food and diners?

43. Were the seats comfortable?

44. Was the look of the table - flatware, napkins, etc. - consistent with the price?

45. Did the overall atmosphere have an appealing mood (e.g. lively, popular, relaxed, romantic, etc) 46. Were the bathrooms sanitary?

47. Were the bathrooms a pleasure to use?

LEAVING 48. Did the waiter make himself available to us so that we could ask for the check?

49. Did the waiter or someone at the door acknowledge us as we left?

50. As we left did any particular unique memorable touches to the experience stand-out in your mind?

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with

Ricardo Acquista This month, we dine at the table of Ricardo Acquista, Chef De Cuisine of the Ritz Carlton’s Porcini Restaurant, who treats us to a feast in the hotel’s Italian eatery…

W

elcome to the first instalment of what is a whole new concept in FACT Magazine – the Chef ’s Table! Each month, we will be having dinner with the head chef of one of Qatar’s leading hotels or restaurants, who will show off their culinary skills, and give us some insight into the world behind the kitchen door that few of us rarely see, though most of us dine out at least once a week!

Chef Ricardo is an Argentinean whose passion for cooking goes back over fifteen years. Early in his life, his one all-consuming ambition was to work in Spain’s world-famous restaurant, El Bulli, where Chef Ferran Adria developed his unique style of molecular cooking.

He first worked in the El Bulli Hotel in la Mayor, and after three years of trying, he finally secured a position with the three-star Michelin restaurant El Bulli in Barcelona. To give you an indication as to how tough the competition to secure a place there was, the work there was unpaid, because so many aspiring chefs were scrambling to work there purely for the experience.

His dedication paid off, and now Ricardo brings his experiences and the techniques he learned to Porcini Restaurant, which he demonstrated in full for us during our Chef ’s Table visit.

“I want to create a culinary journey

56

for our guests during which it will be possible to enjoy the transition between the different aromas, scents and textures of the dishes, each with its own unique highlights, resulting in a surprising and exciting dining experience”, says Ricardo Acquista.

While we weren’t entirely sure what he meant by that, he began to demonstrate in earnest! To start with, something truly unique that we’d never seen before – Liquid Buffalo Mozzarella in a Gazpacho soup. The Mozzarella is actually a liquefied creamy texture that is held together in a ball by an algae jelly. When you put the ball in your mouth, it ‘bursts’, resulting in a full-flavoured experience.

Next came a poached egg with mushrooms in an onion and garlic reduction accompanied by potato foam. Yes, potato foam! This is one of the molecular cooking techniques that Ricardo learnt during his time at El Bulli. The potato foam was a very new experience for us, but all of it was delicious.

Then came Beetroot Risotto with Gorgonzola and Ricolla Lettuce. The mix of the beetroot sweetness with the flavourful Gorgonzola and the spiciness of the Ricolla make this a surprising and colourful dish that you can eat with your eyes as well as your taste buds.

After this came Sea Bass Papillote cooked in a Carta Fata Bags. For this

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dish, all the ingredients (greens, sea bass, olive oil, lemongrass) are put together in the bag, which is heated on a pan to over 200 degrees Celsius, and then served in the bag itself which the waiter opens for you at your table. The bag locks in and enhances all the flavours, and the lemongrass adds to the freshness of this dish and the perfectly cooked sea bass, which remains moist and succulent thanks to the bag. Amazing!

By now we were beginning to really fill up, despite our best efforts to merely sample the dishes, and not devour them in their entirety!

However, the next one that came along dispelled all notions of restraint – Marinated Lamb with Curry Foam. This was lamb loin marinated overnight in cinnamon, vanilla beans, olive oil and lemon grass. This dish is first cooked in the pan and finished in the oven.

The dish is finished with a croquante topped with micro greens, honey and curry dust, supported by a curry foam on the side, another of Ricardo’s novel techniques!

By now, we were struggling to move, but as Ricardo began to prepare the Red Wine Pears dessert in front of our eyes, once again we loosened our sleeves and picked up our spoons.

This was a base of croquante with mascarpone cream in the middle and

coffee foam topped with red wine foam and pears infused in a vanilla syrup – a very unusual combination that worked extremely well.

This was followed by the Petit four, and once again, Ricardo had a surprise up his sleeve. It was white chocolate foam with Peta Zetas (the Spanish version of popping candy that crackles in your mouth).

Apparently, there was one guest, a Qatari lady, who was so shocked by the sensation that she threw her spoon down! And this is a perfect example of how Chef Ricardo’s dining experience challenges you.

What is truly refreshing about spending time with Ricardo is that, rather than pander to the norms, he truly challenges you and your conceptions of what food should be.

While some of it you may find a bit too outlandish, all of it will make you sit back and think, and in this respect, his cooking is truly like art.

Outlining his ambitions for the future in Porcini, Ricardo says, “I want to fully implement the change of menu in Porcini introducing the molecular cuisine with a Mediterranean background, as well as supporting further changes and menu introductions at La Mer restaurant.”

Therefore, you can expect great things in the coming days at the Ritz Carlton Doha!

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BODIES

LEISURE

SPORTS

NIGHTS

EATS

NORTH AMERICAN APPLEBEE’S Huge portions, great French fries, and eternally refillable drinks. We defy you to leave this place hungry. Standard Tex-mex menu. No alcohol.

Al Rayyan, City Center-Doha, Near Qatar Sports Club, Suhaim Bin Hamad St. Tel: 4481 6239 (Al Rayyan), 4493 4880 (City Center), 4493 3208 (Qatar Sports Club), 4442 7753 (Suhaim Bin Hamad)

CHILI’S The reliable tex-mex chain will always fill you up satisfactorily with fajitas, burgers, steaks, etc. Great ‘Guiltless’ menu for dieters. No alcohol.

Souq Rawda-Salwa Rd, The Mall-D Ring Road, City Center Tel: 4444 5335 (Salwa Rd), 4466 0663 (The Mall)

DAIRY QUEEN GRILL’N’CHILL Pretty upmarket as far as fast food goes. Interesting desserts, esp. the Blizzard. No alcohol.

Ramada Junction Tel: 4432 0982

JOHNNY ROCKETS Burgers that taste like the picture makes you think they taste. Nicely conceptualised Americana concept. Fast food as it should be.

Al Emadi Center Salwa Road Tel: 4455 2792

RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN Authentic home-made American meals – basic but tasty.

Very relaxed atmosphere. Fun-loving staff usually create some good times. Good for parties.

Ras Abu Abboud Tel: 4443 7846

ARABIC AL ADHAMIYAH IRAQI RESTAURANT Truely Authentic Iraqi cusine.

Souq Waqif Tel: 4432 4326 QR50-80 per person

KEBAB KING Shwarmas not made at the restaurant but they do offer a stall ideal for parties at home.

Souq Khalid, Ras Abu Aboud St Tel: 4443 3118 (Souq Khalid), 4441 0400 (Ras Abu)

Tel: 4435 5554 QR100-200 per person

CHINESE RUBY WU’S Exploring the vast cuisines of China, this outlet offers specials from Hong Kong to Beiling. Modern decor transports you to a relaxed contemporary Asian atmosphere.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

TSE YANG The international brand of Chinese finds its way to Qatar from New York and Paris.

Porto Arabia Tel: 4495 3876

EUROPEAN AROMA RESTAURANT Contemporary European brasserie with a sense of place, and a mix of classic dishes and fine dining.

Kempinski Tel: 4405 3325

BISTRO 61 This eatery focuses on all-day dining and convenience.

Whether you’re looking for a contintental breakfast, a quick business lunch, an evening meal or a take-away.

Al Fardan Towers, West Bay Tel: 4498 9393

BISTRO BISTRO Echoing the atmosphere of a Meditteranean cellar, this charming little spot offers a cool place with a fresh menu.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

MAXIM A sophisticated spot where artfully presented food mixes with fine wines. As much attention is paid to the gourmet food as it is to the service.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

PICASSO’S A tapas restaurant that brings Doha the taste of Spain.

Bright interiors and colourful dishes bring the vibrancy of the country to life. Nice Sangria too.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

FAR EASTERN

TANGIA Morrocan food.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4434 3333

ASIA LIVE! Classic woody venue with a selection of Asian cuisines from Japan to Malaysia.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8472

TAJINE RESTAURANT Morrocan food.

Souq Waqif

CHOPSTICKS Modern venue with authentic Asian feel. Cuisines come from China to Japan, with a Sushi Corner and business

58

lunch good for businessman in a hurry.

Grand Regency Hotel Tel: 4434 3333 CHOPSTIX Trendy fusion cuisine that mixes Chinese and Japanese styles in a modern atmosphere.

Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence Tel: 4408 4230

FRENCH LA MAISON DU CAVIAR Delicately prepared, and flavoursome dishes attracts topend clientele to this hotspot for the cities most influential.

W Hotel Tel: 4453 5303

LE RELAIS DE L’ENTRECOTE This specilised format restaurant serves you their own choice of dishes chosen on a daily basis. But don’t worry, it’s nearly always excellent.

The Pearl-Qatar Tel: 4495 3876

PAUL BAKERY & RESTAURANT Themed on the French bakery from which it originated, Paul offers a very good menu of salads, snacks and main courses, as well as a delicious range of freshly baked breads, pastries and desserts.

Landmark Mall: 4486 0776 Villagio Mall: 4413 5508

INDIAN BOMBAY BALTI The speed of the food here belies the great quality of Indian dishes. For diners looking to test the spiciness of curries, this will be a popular spot.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

CHINGARI Another Indian restaurant at this hotel, this one offers a more traditional atmosphere and methods. Clay ovens and homemade marinades join the background music from live musicians.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

ROYAL TANDOOR This venue brings alive the rustic flavours of the NorthWest frontier and Nawabi cuisine, traditionally prepared in a clay oven.

Al Sadd Street Tel: 4444 6151

SAFFRON LOUNGE As part of the family of restaurants created by Michelin Star Chef Vineet Bhatia, the food here is fine, with just as fine surroundings as the Doha cultural hub comes to life around you.

Katara Cultural Village Tel: 4408 0808

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TAJ RASOI All the regions of India are covered in this authentic Maharaja style venue. A strong selection of Tandoori grills and friendly service.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8470

Al Dana Restaurant (see International) is definitely a meal with a view!

STAR OF INDIA Very nice buffet daily. Also deliver to homes if you live close enough. In partnership with Caravan.

Al Markhiya Tel: 4486 4440

INTERNATIONAL AL DANA With a visually exciting show kitchen and sushi counter where diners can follow the preparation of their meal, as well as an al fresco environment, and good views over Doha bay, Al Dana is a choice spot.

Sharq Village & Spa Tel: 4425 6666

AL HUBARA All-day dining venue that offers nightly dinner buffets that range from carveries to seafood to Oriental and more.

Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4032

AL SHAHEEN With a private entrance and elevator, Al Shaheen restaurant is a rooftop restaurant located on the 11th floor. Enjoy a great fusion of International and Arabic dishes at Al Shaheen restaurant.

Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4444

AL WANIS TERRACE With breathtaking views over the resort, choose from a sumptuous oriental pix fixe menu, and enjoy the haunting melodies of the live oriental band.

Sharq Village & Spa Tel: 4425 6666

ANIMATO Movenpick Tower Tel: 4496 4444 BD5-10 per person

BENTLEY’S GRILL With an emphasis on their meat selection this outlet is firmly in the grip of Chef Jurgen and his creations.

Deep armchairs and chandeliers create a class atmosphere to go with the great food.

Ramada Plaza 4428 1428

BON BINI Either a la carte or buffet style menu serves up a full mixture of gloal cuisines.

Sealine Beach Resort Tel: 4476 5299

BLUE BRASSERIE International, buffet for all-day dining.

Al Sultan Beach Resort Tel: 4472 2666

BRASSERIE ON THE BEACH International, buffet with Lebanese accents.

Four Seasons Tel: 4494 8888

CORNICHE All-day dining destination that mixes a la carte dining with a large seafood buffet.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8404

COSMO In the hear tof Doha, this venue offers both a la carte and buffet options.

Millenium Hotel Tel: 4424 7777

GRAND GOURMET Each day brings a new theme of buffet, from Arabian Night on Sundays to the Sea Harvest buffet on Tuesday.

A pianist adds to the atmosphere on Sundays, Thursdays

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Corniche at the Marriott Doha...quite a spread!

NIGHTS

EATS

FRIDAY BRUNCHES

BODIES

LEISURE

SPORTS

GRAND HYATT HOTEL @ The Grill

A delicious brunch for all the family.

Open kitchens offer prime cuts of meat, a superb selection of seafood and sushi, an array of vegetable dishes and the all important scrumptious choice of desserts.

Plus a section of kiddie’s favourites. With excellent service from the staff, it’s a first class brunch.

12.30 – 16.00 QR220 (includes soft drinks) QR395 (selected house beverages) 4448 1234 West Bay Lagoon

GRAND HYATT HOTEL @ Isaan

The choice of a French bubbly brunch, with high class, authentic Thai cuisine.

Entertainment from traditional Thai dancers and musicians.

12.30 – 16.30 QR250 (includes soft drinks) QR395 (includes selected house beverages) QR680 (includes one bottle of bubbly) 4448 1250 West Bay Lagoon

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA HOTEL @ The Cafe Restaurant A popular venue with an international buffet, offering an excellent variety of dishes for a satisfying family feast.

12.30 – 16.00 QR250 (includes bubbly) 4484 4444 West Bay Lagoon

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA HOTEL @ The Fish Market An up-market brunch of ocean delights.

Featuring lobster, oysters, tiger prawns and the catch of the day cooked to your liking.

Plus live musical entertainment.

12.30 – 16.00 QR275 (includes house wines, bubbly and soft drinks) 4484 4444 West Bay Lagoon

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DOHA MARRIOTT HOTEL @ Restaurant Gallery Corniche

and

Incorporating all of the popular restaurants to offer a sumptuous feast of international flavours. There’s a kiddie zone to keep mini diners entertained.

12.00 – 15.00 QR235 (includes soft drinks) QR340 (includes selected house beverages and bubbly) 4429 8888 Khulaifat

MOVENPICK HOTEL @ Seasons Restaurant

A delicious brunch with a purse-friendly price tag. The international buffet offers salads, seafood, an array of main dishes and a selection of mouth-watering desserts. Plus, a supervised kiddie corner and child-friendly munchies.

12.00-15.30 QR185 (includes soft drinks) QR230 (with selected beverages) 4429 1111 Mirqab

RAMADA PLAZA HOTEL @ The Hyde Park Restaurant

A great value for money brunch, presenting a variety of International and Middle Eastern flavours. A feast of starters, mains and the all important chocolate fountain leading the desserts.

12.00 – 15.00 QR 140 (includes soft drinks) 190 (includes beverages and sparkling wine) 4428 1428 Rawdat Al Khail

RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL @ The Lagoon

A lavish buffet with a fusion of European, Arabic and Far Eastern dishes. Enjoy a lively, yet laid back atmosphere and impeccable service.

12.00 -15.30 QR 220 (includes soft drinks) 295 (includes selected beverages and bubbly) 4484 8000 West Bay Lagoon

ORYX ROTANA HOTEL @ Choices

Live music entertains while you indulge in a variety of appetizers, seafood, sushi, roasts and grills from the open kitchen.

Indoor and outdoor seating available.

12.00 – 15.00 QR210 (includes soft drinks) QR 285 (selected house beverages and bubbly) 4402 3333 Umm Ghuwaylina

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA @ Al Liwan

An international buffet with a focus on Lebanese cuisine, traditional meets modern. Child-friendly favourites and divine desserts.

From 12.30 – 16.00 QR250 (Includes soft drinks) 4425 6666 Khulaifat

W HOTEL @ Market by Jean-Georges

An elegant brunch offering a buffet of international and Arabic dishes, inspired by fresh local produce. Dine to the live sounds of the Doha Jazz Band.

12.00 – 16.00 QR320 (includes selected beverages and sparkling wine) 4453 5353 West Bay

W HOTEL @ Spice Market

Innovative South East Asian cuisine creates a sumptuous brunch featuring Far Eastern flavours. Live cooking stations for dim sum, tempura and wok. Plus unique desserts, cool cocktails and child-friendly junior chopsticks. Plus DJs entertain with vibrant sounds.

12.00 – 16.00 Introductory price QR320 (includes selected beverages) 4453 5353 West Bay

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and Fridays.

Grand Regency Tel: 4434 3333

LE CIGALON A sumptuous combination of a Continental and Mediterranean buffet and live cooking the in the open kitchen in this all-day dining venue.

La Cigale Hotel Tel: 4428 8888

MAXILL Resident Chefs take it in turns to impress diners at this venue that offers all-day dining including a breakfast buffet and a la carte dinner and lunch.

Swiss-Belhoutel Tel: 4407 8888

THE GRILL A wide selection of meats, but also a nice choice of poultry desserts and vegetarian dishes. The Wagyu beef comes highly recommended, as does the grass-fed yearling. Nice garden views.

Grand Hyatt Doha Tel: 4448 1240

DOHA GOLF CLUB Ideal for a quiet drink, limited menu but still very nice food.

Spikes Bar & Fairways Tel: 4483 2338

BICE One of the more popular eateries on the Pearl-Qatar, with fine Italian food in a casual friendly atmosphere.

The Pearl-Qatar Tel: 4495 3876 CUCINA Traditional Italian restaurant with notoriously fresh ingredients used. Good location in the center of town.

Rennaisance Doha Tel: 4488 6170 DI CAPRI Modern and moody, this venue is a low-lit treasure for trendy diners. Fresh food and interesting takes on Italian classics make each visit here worthwhile.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888 IL TEATRO Contemporary Italian cooking in an elegant venue with tranquil ambience. A nice outdoor terrace and interesting ‘Espresso’ business lunch concept.

Four Seasons Hotel Tel: 4494 8888 BD5-15 per person

SPORTS

THE LAGOON An intriguing blend of Continental, Arabic and Far Eastern cuisines, with 40-foot high windows overlook landscaped gardens.

Ritz Carlton Hotel & Spa Tel: 4484 8000

SPICE MARKET Inspired by the best of South East Asia, this contemporary styled venue has no expense spared for the hotel’s signature restaurant. Family-style dining means that food continues to flow throughout the meal experience.

W Hotel Tel: 4453 5363

ITALIAN

NIGHTS

LAGENDA Poolview restaurant that serves a mixture of Asian and Arabic cuisine on a wide buffet.

Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence Tel: 4408 4220

SEASONS RESTERAUNT A huge Buffet that rotates through different theme nights througout the week. A particularly good Cheese fondue.

Movenpick Tel: 4429 1111

J G SANDWICH CELLER Traditional English fare at reasonable prices.

Ras Abu Abboud St Tel: 4435 7559

EATS

LA BRASSERIE A varied little spot featuring a menu with a Meditteranean twist, but serving a wide range of dishes.

Mercure Grand Hotel Tel: 4446 2222

MAZE GORDON RAMSEY Gourmet food to share from the International Celebrity Chef. Probably the most interesting menu in the city.

The Pearl-Qatar Tel: 4495 3876

LEISURE BODIES Asia Live (see Far Eastern) picks dishes from Japan to Malaysia

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EATS NIGHTS SPORTS LEISURE BODIES

Market, by Jean-Georges - few places can claim to be as stylish!

LA VERANDA Nice views of the corniche complement this authentic spot that features a traditional wood-burning oven for fresh pizzas and prides itself on its past a night.

Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4488

Italian furniture design company Poltrona Frau, YEN Sushi Bar brings together the culinary essence of Japan with creatively-crafted sushi and sashimi presented through a rotating belt.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888

PORCINI This five-star restaurant has excellent Italian fare delivered in a classy slick atmosphere. An open kitchen exhibits the fine cooking prowess and when the flavours hit your mouth, it will thank you!

The Ritz-Carlton Tel: 4484 8503

SUSHI MINTO A stylish and well-designed venue that served delicately prepared sushi, noodles and teppanyaki with new dishes from Sushi chef Agrifino.

Al Muthanna Complex, Salwa Road Tel: 4467 5577 / 4467 7055

THE ITALIAN JOB Rustic decor that channels the 1969 film, and brings it with a sense of humour. Singing waiters and fresh food make this a memorable meal out.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1228

JAPANESE SAKURA Popular spot that’s famous for its Teppanyaki cooking acrobatics. For all lovers of cuisine theatre, this is your place.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428

YEN SUSHI BAR Featuring rice paper walls and handmade stools by

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LEBANESE AL LIWAN Here Chef de Cuisine Ali Hadla has seamlessly combined the traditional principles of Lebanese gastronomy with his own modern twist.

Sharq Village & Spa Tel: 4425 6222

BURJ AL HAMMAM An impressive assortment of traditional Lebanese dishes served in an upscale classy environment.

Porto Arabia, The Pearl Qatar Tel: 4495 3876

LE CIGALON An all-day-dining outlet located on the lobby level overlooking an open kitchen area and features a buffet for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888

ZAMAN Authentic Lebanese fare on the rooftop of the hotel with BBQ section and interesting twists on Lebanese classics.

Millennium Hotel Tel: 4424 7777

AL MOURJAN This award-winner not only has great views across Doha’s West Bay, but boasts one of the biggest capacities in Doha. Worth visiting to find out what the fuss is about.

Corniche Tel: 4483 4423

MEDITERRANEAN LA VILLA On the 12th floor, this venue offers some good panoramas of the Corniche and West Bay, with a wide selection of Mediterranean favourites. A private room is also available for bookings.

Mercure Grand Hotel Tel: 4446 2222

LE CENTRAL This mezannine outlet attracts some of the movers and shakers of the country with it’s Wagyu offering and Black Angus selection. An antipasto station and business lunch round-out the attraction.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888

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ROCCA Excelent service, very friendly. Food is also very nice.

Grand Hyatt Tel: 4448 1270

SOUTH AMERICAN

PALOMA Everything from Fajitas to Burritos, Chimichangas to steaks served here. Along with the Colombian live band, the atmosphere is fun and light, and the meals filling and tasty.

InterContinental Tel: 4484 4919

LATINOS Newly opened South American themed restaruant.

Relaxed atmosphere with live Latino music. Nice food.

Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4444

LA MER The Ritz’s signature restaurant on the 23rd floor, offers some stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

Elegant and sophisticated design join gourmet french cuisine for an excellent experience.

The Ritz Carlton Tel: 4484 8503 LE CENTRAL A genuine Mediterranean seafood experience, with a lively atmosphere thanks to a capacity of 220 people and LCD screens and live projectors displaying noteworthy events and happenings.

La Cigale Hotel Tel: 4428 8888 PIER 12 Gourmet seafood where only the best catches make the menu. Ahi Tuna, Dover Sole, you name it, it’s here, fresh from the sea.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1428 AL SAYYAD The Diplomatic Club Lunch: 12:00 - 15:15 (weekdays) Dinner: 19:00 - 23:30 Tel: 4484 7444

BEST FISH Al Mirqab Al Jadeed St, Al Sadd St Tel: 4443 8507 (Al Mirqab), 4442 1005 (Al Sadd) Lunch: 11:30 - 14:30 Dinner: 17:30 - 00:00

PIRATES COVE Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4444 19:00 - 23:30

LE GRILL Meat connoisseurs will enjoy the care taken over good meat here. Chicken and seafood also get the gourmet treatment.

The Diplomatic Club Tel: 4484 7444

THE OLD MANOR STEAKHOUSE A cosy little venue that offers traditional intimacy and old-world style. The pub food and juicy steaks mix well with a nice English brew, and there’s even regular sports on the plasma screens.

Mercure Grand Hotel Tel: 4446 2222

THAI

THAI SNACK HOUSE Popular Thai restaurant. No alcohol sold.

Al Mirqab Al Jadeed St Tel: 4432 9704

ISAAN One of Doha’s premier restaurants, named after the region in Thailand where food comes first! Stylish venue, strong cuisine and good service.

Grand Hyatt Tel: 4448 1250

TURKISH MARMARA ISTAMBUL Legendary Shwarmas. Will deliver to certain addresses.

Aziziya, Bin Omran, Al Sadd, Tel: 4447 4801 (Aziziya), 4436 2947 (Al Sadd)

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 63

RETAIL

PAMPANO The same brand that was born in New York with Chef Richard Sandoval, this Modern Mexican at its best.

With contributions from Placido Domingo himself, any Mexican lover will be more than satisfied.

The Pearl Qatar Tel: 4424 7777

FISH MARKET Attractive beachfront situation provides a great backdrop for the catch of the day offering some the freshest fish in town.

InterContinental Tel: 4484 4919

PONDEROSA STEAKHOUSE Excellent value buffet for all non-steak offerings, and a good selection of cuts and meats on the a la carte.

Very kid-friendly, not suitable for a night out. More a quick bite. No alcohol.

Salwa Road

BODIES

SALSA A concept restaurant that has strong Tex-Mex theme, complete with Wild West swing doors. Their trademark ‘Espadas de Carbon’ are arm-length skewers of meaty goodness.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8464

AL DANA With a front-row seat to one of Doha’s best beaches, this venue offers great views to complement the great food.

An exclusive enclave with show-kitchen, sushi counter and daily fish market.

Sharq Village & Spa Tel: 4425 6666

NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE Modern Steakhouse with a wide selection of meats and cuts in convenient central location.

Rennaisance Doha Tel: 4488 6170

LEISURE

IPANEMA Brazilian Churrascaria where you decide how much/fast you eat with roaming meat kebabs that you can receive selections off at the press of a button.

Rennaisance Doha Tel: 4488 6170

SEAFOOD

JW STEAKHOUSE This venue offers a gentlemen’s club feel with leather armchairs and carpets. Large portions will feed hungry diners, with a nice exhibition kitchen on display too.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8218

SPORTS

THE CELLAR Specialists in a variety of tapas as well as a worthy collection of vintage wines.

Oryx Rotana Tel: 4402 3333

TANGIA Cooking up the spirit of Morrocco, this traditional venue brings wholesome hearty Moroccan fare, with occasional authentic musicians and an excellent Couscous Royale.

Grand Regency Hotel Tel: 4343 3333

STEAKHOUSES

NIGHTS

MYKONOS Experience all the flavours of Greek & Mediterranean cuisine, an ideal place to relax whilst enjoying the sun, the sea, fine food and an ambiance befitting its waterside location.

Intercontinental Doha Tel: 4484 4444

MORROCAN

EATS

MARKET BY JEAN-GEORGES This re-imagining of modern dining sees Chef JeanGeorges invting you into his kitchen where casual Mediterranean fare is prepared fresh in full view. Lush decor and moody style pervades.

W Hotel Tel: 4453 5373

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BARS AND CLUBS

BODIES

LEISURE

SPORTS

NIGHTS

EATS

BELGIAN BEER CAFE This concept bar provides a more varied selection of beers amongst a classy, chilled out vibe provided by the nice wooden interior design. Very traditional Belgian/European feel to the bar and the food they provide.

Free Entrance Intercontinental Doha Tel: 44844444 LAVA BAR & LOUNGE One of the newest venues in Doha, Lava has a modern feel to it and is a good place to sit with a group of friends to enjoy some drinks and music.

Is pretty much one large corridor, so it is easy to find your way around and back to your seat.

Free Entrance Intercontinental Doha Tel: 44844444 THE IRISH HARP One of, if not the, most popular bars in Doha, gets very busy during the weekend. Live music and a local DJ play the songs we all love to listen and dance to after a few drinks. Membership needed so new visitors will need to pay to get in but entrance is free thereafter.

QR 30 Entrance Sheraton Doha Tel: 4485 4444 MADISON PIANO BAR Live Arabic music courtesy of their resident musician to a backdrop of classy seating and decorations, suitable for a quiet drink/date.

Cocktails, light snacks and canapĂŠs served here.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888 SKY VIEW Wonderful views of Doha from this suitably named rooftop lounge. A wide range of tasty cocktails and light snack served to the tunes of a chilling DJ mix. The bars here seem to be a popular place amongst the Lebanese crowd.

La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888 7 NIGHT CLUB This trendy spot (opened September 2010) is already a popular venue for clubbers and socialites.

QR100 for membership La Cigale Tel: 4428 8888 PEARL LOUNGE One of the original clubs in Doha and yet still remains slick and chic. Bars on each of the two levels as well as a special VIP area for those who wish to drink separate from the masses. A mezzanine level offers a unique view of the club.

Marriot Doha Tel: 4429 8444 BUBBLES ON 2 Champagne and caviar bar, two levels with a bar on each and live piano music occationally.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 44281428 MANHATTAN Very small, intimate bar which is quite popular amongst the Western expat community.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 44281428 THE LIBRARY Rooftop cocktail lounge with a reasonably exclusive feel to it and spectacular views of the city.

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Ramada Plaza Tel: 44281428 SHEHRAZAD LOUNGE BAR & IRISH TERRACE Very popular when hosting The Laughter Factory and the institution which is the monthly Quiz so book early. Also quite a popular place to watch the English Premier League on one of the many small screens scattered around the bar. Hosts the yearly Octoberfest too.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 44281428 QUBE One of the largest clubs in Doha with a great sound system. Occasionally hosts live music as well as the regular DJs playing the latest club and chart hits.

Annually holds the Battle of the Bands competition.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 44281428

CIGAR LOUNGE Quite small but very nice and quiet bar to enjoy a cocktail and a Cuban. Offers a repository of the world’s most exclusive selection of cigars.

Sharq Village & Spa Tel: 4425 6666 WAHM A very modern bar in unison with the rest of this classy and hugely popular hotel. Seating arrangements inside and out have a quite traditional Arabic feel to them with the comfy corner chairs forming a circle around a center table. Swimming pool outside.

W Hotel Doha Tel: 4453 5000 CRYSTAL LOUNGE Clubbers in Doha tend to flock to this classy popular modern night club and wont be disappointed by the modern club music played by a live DJ. W Hotel Doha Tel: 4453 5000

FACT QATAR APRIL

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Seven, at CIgale Hotel...one of Qatar’s top nightspots is bringing the capital’s nightlife into the 21st century

EATS NIGHTS SPORTS LEISURE

APRES SPA CAFE TERRACCE Another exclusive, classy venue serving colourful cocktails and gourmet snacks.

Four Seasons Hotel Tel: 4494 8282 THE CELLAR Mediterranian tapas and a wide variety of vintage wines provided.

Oryx Rotana Tel: 4402 3333

JAZZ CLUB The sounds of Bourbon Street Jazz and Blues as well as refined cuisine.

Oryx Rotana Tel: 4402 3333 DOHA RUGBY CLUB A very busy bar (with inexpensive drinks by Doha standards) on a Friday and Saturday with occasional live music makes for a boisterous and fun filled evening. Membership is needed and there is quite a long waiting list, but members can sign two friends in at a time.

Doha Rugby Club Tel: 44683771 PIANO PIANO Relaxed Euro-American bar with a modern yet cosy atmosphere. Perfect for apres-work beverages, business meetings, or an easy evening with friends. Live jazz on

fridays from 21:00. Piano music entertains the rest of the week.

Movenpick Hotel Tel: 4429 1111 THE LOUNGE Stylish bar with a relaxed atmosphere, which specialises in cocktails. Only small bites to eat, but the intimate feel more than makes up for it.

Kempinksi Residences & Suites Tel: 4405 3333 ADMIRAL CLUB Trendy marina-side lounge with a club-like atmosphere. Features an indoor lounge-bar and outdoor terrace boasting incredible views of the Gulf.

Rityz Carlton Doha Tel: 4484 8484

FACT QATAR APRIL Qatar march Issue.indd 65

BODIES

LIBRARY & CIGAR LOUNGE An exclusive cocktail bar which serves a signature cocktail of Louis XIII cognac and Dom Perignon Millenium champagne and ‘home made infused vodka martinis’.

Four Seasons Hotel Tel: 4494 8282

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EATS

AEROBICS AL MASSA ACTIVE A variety of fitness classes as well as membership options. Separate men and womens clubs located next to each other behind Jarir Bookstore and on Salwa Road.

Tel: 4436 4850 (men) 4444 4161 (ladies)

LEISURE

SPORTS

NIGHTS

ASPIRE ACADEMY FOR SPORTS EXCELLENCE A range of fitness classes offered for men, women and children. www.aspire.qa Tel: 4413 6219 BOOT CAMP QATAR This is a group-based, structure, 60-minute class held at either Corniche Park (near Sheraton Doha) or ASPIRE Park.

Classes start 06:00, and 19:30 on wwekdays and 10:00 on Sun, Tue Thur.

Tel: 6685 4556 info@bootcampqatar.com CONTOURS EXPRESS Ladies only, at any fitness level. 29-minute Express Workout Daily from 07:00 -20:00 Tel: 4498 0099 www.contoursexpress.com CURVES Designed for the busy women, no men.

A Complete cardio and strength training workout in only 30 minutes.

Al Waab or near Landmark Mall Tel: 4469 9955 (Al Waab) 4421 7755 (Landmark) Email: doha@curvesme.com www.curves.com ENERGIE Villagio based fitness club.

Email: info@energie-qa.com www.energie-qa.com

BODIES

FITNESS FIRST City Center Doha, Level 3 Tel: 4411 5999 www.fitnessfirst.com FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Pilates classes every Monday and Wednesday 09:45 - 10:45am Tel: 4494 8888 INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA’S BAY CLUB Personal and group circuit training for members only.

Tel: 4484 4852 LA CIGALE’S OZONE SPA & GYM Fitness and resistance training. Non members pay a daily rate and can use all facilities available.

Tel: 4428 8888 SHERATON DOHA HEALTH & RECREATION CENTRE Pilates classes every Monday and

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Wednesday and power-pilates on Thursday Tel: 4485 4600

Call Gail on 5581 1796 www.dohadartsleague.com

BADMINTON

FENCING

RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Members and their guests attend Badminton socials held on Friday evenings.

Tel: 4428 1621

QATAR FENCING FEDERATION Classes available for dedicated beginners and advanced levels.

Training sessions from Sunday to Thursday 16:00 - 19:00 Tariq Bin Ziyad Training Centre, Al Sadd Tel: 4483 8392 Email qff@olympic.qa or visit www. qatarfencing.org

QATAR BADMINTON ACADEMY Junior badminton players and training for children.

Email: qatarbadmintonacademy@gmail. com

BASEBALL Qatar Little League American Baseball Open to all English-speaking boys and girls, aged 4-18 years.

Tel: 5556 0975

BASKETBALL RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Members and their guests, Badminton nights on Sundays and Tuesdays.

Tel: 4428 1621

BOWLING STRIKE BOWLING 10-lane alley.

City Center-Doha’s Winter Wonderland, Ground Floor Open Saturday to Wednesday 10:00 22:00, Thursday 10:00 - 23:30 Friday 13:00 - 22:00 Tel: 4483 9162 GONDOLANIA BOWLING CENTER 12-lane alley.

Villagio Mall, Gondolania Theme Park.

Open Saturday to Wednesday 12pm 11pm Thursday 10am - 12pm Friday 2pm - 11:30pm Tel: 4403 9807 / 8 www.gondolania.com

CYCLING QATAR CHAIN REACTION Weekly road and mountain bike rides for all levels of cyclists in a multi-cultural group. www.qatarchainreaction.com or email xtfuel@gmail.com.

QATAR CYCLING FEDERATION Open to all keen cyclist. Regular rides and road races, individual and team races, moutain biking and time trials.

Tel: 4447 5522 www.qatarcf.org

DARTS DOHA DARTS LEAGUE Played at various venues around Doha on a Wednesday night.

FISHING FISHING TRIPS Through the Sheraton Doha (4485 4600) or Bassel direct on 5551 8100 QATAR SEA ANGLING ASSOCIATION Meets monthly and holds regular fishing cmpetitions.

Tel: 5550 1906 / 5589 4962 THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Fishing trips arranged for members and non-members.

Tel: 4484 7444

FOOTBALL EVOLUTION FOOTBALL ACADEMY Top football training and instruction for children of all ages. www.evolutionsoccer.com EVOLUTION LADIES SOCCER Doha College 19:00 - 20:00 Tel: Richard 5500 4697 info@evolutionsoccer.co.uk QATAR WOMEN’S FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION For all ladies over 16-years old.

Email: qatar.wfa@gmail.com

FLYING QATAR AERONAUTICAL COLLEGE Located on the Ras Abou Abboud Expressway. Try your hand at being a high flyer.

Tel: 4432 9101 www.qac.edu.qa

FRISBEE Doha Ultimate Frisbee Federation Frisbee enthusiasts unite in Doha!

Tel: 4427 2913

GOLF DOHA GOLF CLUB 18-hole championship course, nine-hole floodlit academy course, putting and chipping greens and world class practice

FACT QATAR APRIL

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Doha Golf Club...the greenest place in the country?

EATS NIGHTS SPORTS

QATAR GOLF ACADEMY Tuition by qualified PGA pro’s at Doha Golf Club for adults and juniors.

Tel: 4496 0755 wwwdohagolfclub.com Email: academy@academy.com

HOCKEY

WANDERERS (Francis 4477 6240) PAKISTAN (Ajmal 5521 1703) GATEWAY (Ajit Menon 5581 3229) QATAR HOCKEY ACADEMY Coaching offered for a limited number of 6-15 year olds.

Call Mohammed Abdul Nazar 5587 8317

HORSE RIDING AL SAMARIYA STABLES

AL SHAQAB RIDING ACADEMY Group or private lessons in riding, dressage and show jumping.

Tel: 4481 2061 www.alshaqab.com QATAR RACING & EQUESTRIAN CLUB Horse racing season runs from October to May, races every thursday 16:-- 19:00. Entrance is free.

Al Rayyan Tel: 4482 5701 / 3 www.qrec.gov.qa QATAR RACING & EQUESTRIAN CLUB RIDING SCHOOL For new and experienced riders, lessons three times a week and are 45 minutes long.

Tel: 4480 7413 www.qrec.gov.qa

ICE SKATING GONDOLANIA ICE ARENA Full size ice rink. Beginners and advanced ice hockey and figure skating lessons available.

Villagio Mall Saturday to Wednesday 10:00 - 22:00 Thursday 10:00 - 23:30

Friday 13:00 - 23:30 Tel: 4440 3987 / 8 QATAR MINOR ICE HOCKEY ASSOCIATION For children aged 5 - 17 years.

Villagio, Gongolania Ice Rink Email: presedent@qataricehockey. com WINTER WONDERLAND Full size rink, ice hockey league games held on Thursday evenings at 10pm.

Tel: 4483 9163

KARTING GONDOLANIA THEME PARK Indoor karting track that measures 300m and can accomodate 8 drivers at a time.

11:00 - 23:00

KITE SURFING QATAR KITE SURFING CLUB Lessons offered by IKO registered instructors.

Tel: 5535 0336 (Jonathan) Email: qatarkitesurfing@hotmail.com

MARINE MOTOR SPORTS POWERBOATING 21-foot powerboats for rent Sunday to Thursday for waterskiing, wakeboarding and FACT QATAR APRIL

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BODIES

EXPATRIATE HOCKEY CLUBS: DOHA HOCKEY CLUB Open for all ages and standards, men and women. Played on astroturf at Al Rayyan Sports Club from September to May. Training sessions, league matches, tournaments and international tours. www.dohahockeyclub.com

Group or private lessons.

Sheik Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani’s farm Tel: 5525 7203 www.fbqmuseum.com Email: samstables2008@yahoo.com

LEISURE

facilities.

Daily 06:00 - 23:00 Tel: 4496 0777 www.dohagoldclub.com

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EATS

day trips. Six persons per boat.

Diplomatic Club Tel: 4484 7450 QATAR MARINE SPORTS FEDERATION Jetskiing and powerboat renting Tel: 4437 974 www.qmsf.org

MARTIAL ARTS

SPORTS

NIGHTS

KARATE Ramada’s Cabana Club Firday and Saturday 09:00-10:00 Tel: 4441 7417

LEISURE BODIES

DOHA HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Running club for families Tel: 5586 9492 (Alex) Email: abkuw@yahoo.com INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL DOHA BAY CLUB Run along Doha Corniche every Tuesday at 19:00.

Tel: 4484 4852 QTHLETICS TRACK AND FEILD CLUB Tel: 4442 6328 www.qmotion.com.qa

SHOTOKAN KARATE The International Academy for Intercultural Development Tel: 4432 0974

SAILING

The Qatari Centre for Self Defence (near TV Roundabout) Monday, Wednesday and Saturday Tel: 5584 8749 Capt Mohammed Al Naggar (4th Dan Black Belt and member of the Japan Karate Federation)

REGATTA SAILING ACCADEMY Professional dinghy and windsurfing instruction for everyone. Weekend racing for the more advanced.

Tel: 5550 7846, 4442 4577 Email: regatta@qatar.net.qa www.regattasailingacademy.com

TAEKWONDO Falcon Taekwondo Academy, The Center (Near Ramada) Tel: 4442 3012 4431 4415

FOUR SEASONS MARINA Professional yacht instruction and racing on Corby 28 and Kerr 9 m. Corportate days and yacht charter.

Tel: 4442 4577 Email: regatta@qatar.net.qa www.regattasailingacademy.com

Korea Taekwondo Centre Tel: 4465 9066 Coach JK Shin (7th Dan Black Belt) 5556 3305

MOTOR CYCLING MOTORCYCLING RALLIES Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation Tel: 4437 9800 www.qmmf.com QATAR MOTORCYCLING GROUP (QMG) An active group of motorcyclist that meet weekly for outings near Sealine Beach Resort and on Qatar’s roads Tel: Tim Stevens 5550 7876 E-mail: qmg@hotmail.co.uk www.zapmans.net/forum HOG QATAR Qatar’s Harley Davidson group. Friday morning rides held every week.

Tel: Carl 5532 3680 E-mail: caldous@gmail.com

RUGBY DOHA RUGBY UNION FC Matches and training Saturday to Wednesday from 17:00.

Near Doha College www.doharfc.com Tel: 4468 3771

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RUNNING

DOHA SAILING CLUB Tel: 4443 9840

ROYAL YACHTING ASSOCIATION COURSES Evening classes for internationally recognised sailing qualifications www.ryacourses-qatar.com

SAND SPORTS DESERT QUADS Sealine Beach Resort Tel: 4476 5299

SCUBA DIVING / SNORKELING DOHA SUB-AQUA CLUB A branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club offers BSAC training for new and experienced divers.

Meetings on Tuesday evening Tel: 5583 6240 lisanne.jones1704@gmail.com www.dohasubaquaclub.com

RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Social squash matches on Sunday Ramada Plaza Members and their guests only Tel: 4428 1621 / 1622 SHERATON DOHA HEALTH & RECREATION CENTER Social squash matches on Monday and Wednesday.

Sheraton Doha Tel: 4483 6363, 4485 4600 THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Tennis and squash lessons for members and non-members Tel: 4484 7444

SWIMMING DOHA DOLPHINS Toddlers and adults.

Tel: 4442 6329 www.qmotion.com.qa H20 SWIM CLUB Swimming lessons, for children and adults.

Mother and tot groups and aerobics classes.

American School Tel: 5556 8631 (Seema Pascoe) Email: info@h20swimclub.com www.h20swimclub.com INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA’S BAY CLUB Private or group lessons for members and nonmembers available.

Intercontinental Doha Tel: 4484 4852 RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Group swimming lessons for children, Monday and Wednesday.

4pm - 5pm & 5pm - 6pm Tel: 4428 1621, 4428 1622 RITZ-CARLTON DOHA SPA & FITNESS Individual swimming lessons available to children and adults.

Weekdays, 09:00 - 18:00 Tel: 4484 8173 THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Swimming lessons to members and nonmembers Tel: 4484 7444 TIDAL WAVES SWIM CLUB Lessons available for children from 5-18 years.

All instructors hold British qualification. www.tidalwavesswimclub.com

SQUASH

TENNIS

DUFFERS SQUASH LEAGUE Email: chris_coull@hotmail.com www.squashleagues.com

ELITE TENNIS ACADEMY Mini tennish (4 - 18 year olds), indoor. Adult development programmes, beginners to advanced. Cardio tennish and ladies morning sessions also available Tel: 5566 4747 (Eric) Email: info@elite-tennisacademy.com www.elite-tennisacademy.com

KHALIFA TENNIS & SQUASH COMPLEX 29 tennis courts and 2 sqush courts available by the hour to hire Tel: 4440 9666

KHALIFA TENNIS & SQUASH

FACT QATAR APRIL

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Khalifa Stadium at ASPIRE, once lonely, will have very many stadium friends in the near future

EATS NIGHTS SPORTS

INTERCONTINENTAL’S BAY CLUB Tennis clinics and private lessons for children and adults. Friday and Saturday 18:00 -20:00 Tel: 4484 4852

SEALINE BEACH RESORT Floodlit tennis court.

QR 20 per hour Tel: 4476 8173 SHERATON DOHA HEALTH & RECREATION CENTER Mixed tennis socials every friday 16:00 - 19:00.

Ladies only on Tuesday and Sunday 09:00 12:00 Sheraton Doha Tel: 4483 6363, 4485 4600 THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB Tennis and squash lessons for members and non-members Tel: 4484 7444

TRAMPOLINING

SHERATON DOHA HEALTH & RECREATION CENTER Offers yoga and pilates combo classes every day execpt Monday Tel:4485 4600

VOLLEYBALL

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA Monday and Wednesday 8:30 - 9:30 (advanced), 11:00 - 12:00 (beginners) Tuesday 17:30 - 18:30 (beginners and advanced) Members and Non-members Tel: 4494 8888

3RD FILIPINO VOLLEYBALL ASSOCIATION Tournaments at the Philippine International School on Fridays from 5pm Tel: 5537 5994 (Joey) RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Volleyball night on Sunday and Wednesday 19:00 - 21:00 Tel: 4428 1621 / 1622

YOGA INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY FOR INTERCULTURAL DEVELOPMENT Mixed and ladies classes on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Tel: 4432 0974 INTERCONTINENTAL’S BAY CLUB Sunday and Tuesday 06:30 Monday and Wednesday 19:00 Tel: 4484 4852

YAMA TOGA STUDIOS Full range of yoga classes for beginners to advanced Tel: 4494 8888 SIX SENSES SPA ‘Hot’ yoga classes in a specially heated room.

Sharq Village & Spa QR 50 per lessson (includes towels, mat, water & use of facilities) Tel: 4425 6999 www.grassrootsyoga.com THE MERZAM RESIDENCE Ashtange and Hot Yoga classes.

Tel: 4431 4168 www.merzamhotels.com FACT QATAR APRIL

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BODIES

RAMADA’S CABANA CLUB Social tennis matches held on Wednesday and Friday. Private lessons daily execpt Saturday.

Ramada Plaza Tel: 4428 1621 / 1622

GYMNASTICS ACADEMY Keep fit and have fun, or hone your kite surfing and wake baording skills.

Doha English Speaking School Tel: 6664 5032 salomemig@hotmail.com

LEISURE

COMPLEX 29 tennis courts and 2 sqush courts available by the hour to hire Tel: 4440 9666

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WORTH YOUR TIME

www.mathaf.org.qa Excellent new art space showing some of the best in Arabic modern art.

LEISURE

SPORTS

NIGHTS

EATS

MATHAF - MODERN ART MUSEUM

ART AND CRAFT AL HOSH AL QATARI LIL FUNOON GALLERY

Local and regional art, located in the heart of the souk.

Souk Wakif, Jasra Tel: 4441 1305 Sat to Thurs 09:00 - 12:00, 16:00 22:00 Fri 16:00 - 22:00

AL MARKHIYA GALLERY

Permanent and temporary exhibition highlighting emerging and established talent, working with major international galleries.

Souk Wakif, Jasra Tel: 4442 8007 Sat to Thurs 10am - 12pm, 4pm10pm Fri 4pm - 10pm

BODIES

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART A stunning architectual landmark.

Al Corniche St, Doha Port Sat - Thurs 10:30 - 17:30 Fri 14:00 - 20:00 Tel: 4422 4444

MATHAF - ARABIC MUSEUM OF MODERN ART Modern art collection transformed into large contemporary gallery with regular exhibitions from local artists. www.mathaf.org.qa

QATAR ISLAMIC CULTURAL CENTRE

Regular exhibitions and workshops in painting, drawing, design and ceramics.

Abdullah bin Jassim St Tel: 4425 0250

QATAR QUILT GUILD

Women only meet at various times throughout the month for sewing

70

workshops.

Email: qqguild@hotmail.com

Al Shamal Rd, Umm Salal

SEWING ART STUDIO

UMM SALAL MOHAMMED FORT

Group meets on alternate Wednesdays Tel: 585 2154 (Sveltana) www.lekala.com.qa

HERITAGE AL KOOT FORT

Houses a ethnographical museum Al Asmakh St, Jasra Tel: 4442 4143

AL WAJBAH FORT

Oldest and most attractive for in the whole state 15km north of Doha, New Al Rayyan 200 fils entrance 08:00 - 14:00

AL ZUBARAH

A fort-tuened museum, constructed in 1938 Al Zubarah, Shamal

BARZAN TOWER

Originally built as a watchtower some time in the 19th century Wadi al Waiba St, Umm Slal

DOHA ZOO

Several enclosures, with the reptile section being the most interesting.

Al Waab St, Aziziyah 09:00 -19:00, Sat - Thur 13:30 - 19:00 Fri Tel: 4468 2610

JEBEL JASSASSIYEH

Thousand year old rock carvings on view here 60km north of Doha, towards Al Huwailah, Shamal

UMM SALAL ALI

Site of a field of historic grave mounds, about 27km North of Doha.

Built in the 20th Century for military purposes.

Al Shamal Rd, Umm Salal

BEACHES KHOR AL UDEID/THE INLAND SEA At the southeast tip of Qatar. Popular beach outside of Doha.

Near Mesaieed

SEALINE BEACH RESORT

Hotel, two swimming pools and landscaped grounds. Villas available and chalets available for overnight, weekend and holiday hire, also open for day visitors. Watersports and dune buggies available.

Just South of Mesaieed Tel: 4476 8173

DOHA MARRIOT HOTEL Ras Abu Aboud St. Tel: 4429 8499

SHARQ VILLAGE & SPA

Ras Abu Aboud St 08:00 - 22:00 Day pass - QR150/175 per person Tel: 4425 6666

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA Al Astiqlal Rd QR180 per person QR150 per person (with a member) QR80 for children Tel: 4484 4444

GRAND HYATT DOHA

West Bay Lagoon QR150 for pool &beach facilities, QR250 including gym facilities.

Tel: 4448 1234

FACT QATAR APRIL

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RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL & SPA Tel: 4484 8000

ALADDIN’S KINGDOM 18 games and rides, including rollercoaseters and trampolines Open 16:00 - 22:00 Mon to Sat Omaiza St, West Bay Tel: 4483 1001

CIRCUSLAND

GONDOLANIA

Newist indoor theme park with rides, 4D cinema, go-karting and a bowling alley Villagio Mall, Al Waab St. Open Sat to Wed 09:00 - 23:00 Thurs 09:00 - 00:00 Fri 14:00 - 00:00 Tel: 4451 9993 www.playlandco.com

DOHA PLAYERS

Act in an amature production - various shows take place throughout the year. Or help behind the scenes Tel: 4447 4911

QATAR GUEST CENTRE

HOBBIES QATAR PHOTOGRAPHY SOCIETY

MUSIC & SINGING

Improve your photography, take part in exhibitions and critique other members work.

Tel: 4467 7793

CAFE CERAMIQUE

Paint various crockery and enjoy a snack at the same time The Mall, Old Airport Tel: 4467 1100

CERAMICS GALORE

DANCE

KIDZART

Kids painting and handicrafts activities.

Salwa Road Open Sat 9:30 - 23:30 Tel: 4435 2598

Courses include watercolour, chalk pastels, sculpture and more.

Gympanzee, Villagio Mall Tel: 5566 4402

QATAR PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

The largest collection of international standard musicians performing regularly throughout the year.

Tel: 5520 6319 qpo@qf.org.qa

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR MUSIC

Musical lessons for all kinds of instruments.

Tel: 4467 1354

DOHA SINGERS

Regular singing troupe, with rehearsalas and performances throughout the year.

Tel: 5557 4671

DOHA COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

Adults and children welcome at this casual concert group, either as listenres or players!

Tel: 5521 2257

LEISURE

A range of forms taught, including classical ballet, jazz and more.

Tel: 4442 8351

Full range of professional language courses with varying length. Languages include Arabic, French, Spanish, German and more.

Tel: 4455 0506

Casual evening classes (free of charge) for people wanting to learn Arabic (textbooks not included).

Tel: 4486 2390 www.qgc.com.qa

Indoor theme park with nine attractions.

Hyatt Plaza, Muraikh Open Sun to Thurs 13:00 - 22:00 Sat 10:00 - 22:00 Tel: 4469 4848

DOHA COLLEGE

BERLITZ

SPORTS

JUNGLE ZONE

DRAMA

LANGUAGE

NIGHTS

Rides, games and an activity zone suitable for children under 12 Open Sat to Thurs 9am - 10pm Fri 15:00 - 22:00 Landmark Mall, Umm Lekhba Tel: 4487 6333

All ages and levels welcome for courses in Royal Academy Ballet, hip hop, and more.

Tel: 4467 1354

EATS

KIDS

INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR MUSIC

Sharq Village & Spa’s beach... one of the best ways to enjoy the Arabian Gulf

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EATS

SALONS BRAVO SPA Hair cuts and basic beauty treatments Rawdat Al Khail 10:30 - 20:00 Tel: 4435 5868

LEISURE

SPORTS

NIGHTS

COIFFURE FRANCAISE Haircuts for women only.

Salwa Rd, New Al Khulaifat Daily 08:30-12:00, 15:30-19:00 Tel: 4468 9211

BODIES

SHERATON SALON FOR LADIES Women only Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, West Bay 09:30 - 13:00, 14:00 - 20:00 Tel: 4485 4444 STUDIO 1 Al Mirqab Al Jadeed St, Markab 09:30 - 19:30 Tel: 4444 7494

CUT (BY ALEXANDRE ZOUARI) W Doha Hotel & Residences, West Bay 09:00 - 21:00 Tel: 4453 5353

STYLO LADIES BEAUTY CENTER Al Sadd 09:00 - 13:00, 15:30 - 20:30 (15:00 21:00 Fri) Tel: 4436 3626

DIPLOMATIC CLUB BEAUTY CENTER Al Istiqlal St, West Bay Lagoon 09:00 - 21:00 Tel: 4484 7444

HEALTH SPAS

FRANCK PROVOST Four Seasons Hotel, West Bay Tel: 4494 8888 9:00 - 20:30 (15:30 - 21:30 Fri) GLOW AMERICAN SALON Salwa Rd, Al Wabb & Beach Tower, West Bay 10:00 - 19:00 (Tue - Thurs) 11:00 - 20:00 (Fri) 10:00 - 19:00 (Sat - Sun) Beach Towe, West Bay Tel: 4468 9945 Salwa, 6686 4220 Beach Tower MANILA BEAUTY SALON Al Buhaira St, Tarfa 08:30 - 20:30 (16:00 - 20:30 Fri) Tel: 4443 6164

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PINKIES Full primping with manipedis, reflexology and massages Freej Abdul Aziz Tel: 4431 7959

MICHEL Intercontinental Doha Hotel, West Bay Lagoon 09:30 - 20:30 Tel: 4484 4444

ANGSANA SPA Javanese, Thai, Ayurvedic, Indian Head Massages, Shirodhara Treatment, Rainmist and Angsana Spa Packages. Micure/Pedicure. Facial and hydrotherapy packages. Hydrothermal treatment facilities such as sauna, cold mist shower, steam essance and Pelotherapy Chamber.

Grand Regency Tel: 4434 3152 BAY VIEW 26 WELLNESS CENTRE Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue massage, Swedish masage, combination massage, foot relexology, Head Massage & foodt/hand/back massages.

Movenpick Towe & Suites Doha, West Bay Tel: 4496 6410 tower.doha@moevenpick.com moevenpick-doha-tower.com BE BLOOM BEAUTY CENTRE & SPA Purifying or oily skin programme, anti-aging and refining programme, whitening programme, winter programme, summer programme and oxy-peeling facial programme.

Montaza Rd, Hilal Area, Altadanum roundabout, Villa 10.

Tel: 4455 4422 bebloomsaloon@yahoo.com

PARIS NAILS Al Markhiya St, Duhail Tel: 4487 8643

BIO-BIL HEALTH BEAUTY & SPA Ladies: relaxing body massage, reflexology and foot spa. Manicure/pedicure. Hair removal.

Body treatments and Morrocan bath. Makeup.

Facials.

Men: facials, manicure/pedicure and relaxing head, neck and back massage offered in a separate venue downstairs.

Bilal Suites Tel: 4493 4433

PATRICE SALON Men’s salon.

Landmark Mall, Villagio Mall, Sheraton 09:30 - 21:00 (15:00 - 21:00 Fri) Tel: 4486 5970 (Landmark), 4450 7199 (Villagio), 4485 4012 (Sheraton)

BLISS SPA Various face and body treatments, oxygen treatments, laconium room, waxing and nail services. Separate amenities for men and women.

W Doha Hotel Tel: 4453 5555

NAILS Nail treatments, therapies for hands and feet, and more.

Al Sadd Tel: 4413 0222

BRAVO SPA Massages, hammam and threading.

Ramada Junction, Rawdat Al Khail Tel: 4435 5868 CABANA CLUB Swedish reflexology massages on offer.

Ramada Plaza Doha, Rawdat Al Khail Tel: 4441 7417 DADOS SPA One of the newist Spas in Doha.

Lusail Street, West Bay Tel: 4498 0033 DIPLOMATIC CLUB SPA Luxury spa with plunge pools.

Al Istiqal Street, West Bay Lagoon Tel: 4484 7444 DIVA LOUNGE BEAUTY SALON Based on the elements of earth, wind, fire and water. Indulge your senses with the holistic approach to treatment.

Al Kinana St, Al Sadd 09:00 - 22:00 Tel: 4431 8488 DOHA MARRIOT SPA Aromatic, hot stone, Swedish, Shiatsu, back, neck and shoulders massages. Hydrotherapy available includes Turkish bath, therapy baths, foot bath, plunge pool, steam room.

Reflexology. Body treatments. Fantasy Spray tanning services. The Juice Bar offers healthy snacks and meals.

Doha Marriot Tel: 4429 8520 FOUR SEASONS SPA & WELLNESS CENTER 11 treatment rooms including a Private Spa Suite where a wide range of treatments, massages and facials are offered for the ultimate therapeutic experience. The restorative cycle begins with water in the Spa’s chemical-free hydrotherapy lounge.

Four Seasons Hotel, West Bay Tel: 4494 8801 HABIBS HAIR N BEAUTY SPA Purifying back treatment, hydro-active mineral salt scrub, thermo stamp back massage, quick tension release, luxury foot massage, aromatherapy treatment and ayurveda body massage.

Al Sadd, opposite Royal Plaza Mall Tel: 4413 0672 / 5554 0938 / 5552 3836 INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA SPA Swedish, shiatsu and sports massages. Body treatments. Reflexology. Steam room and plunge pool.

Intercontinental Doha, West Bay Lagoon Tel: 4484 4444 JAULA SPA Aromatherapy, Muscle Release, Nurturing Mother massages, body treatments and rituals, facials, hair removal, scalp and hair treatments.

Grand Hyatt Doha Tel: 4448 1056

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LUCIE SAINT-CLAIR Harmonising, anti-cellulite, correcting back massages, facial and body treatments, manicure/predicure Royal Plaza Tel: 4447 7725

PURE SPA Moroccan and aromatic bath treatments. Steam room, sauna and jacuzzi. Massage and body treatments. Facials.

Manicure/predicure.

Millenium Hotel Tel: 4424 7777

THIS MONTH AT THE SPA...

Detox to Relax at the Spa

For the ultimate luxurious purification, enjoy 75 minutes of pure bliss. Enrich the whole experience with a complimentary nourishing hot oil scalp treatment where pure aromatherapy oil blend nourishes the scalp and stimulates the hair vitality, by massaging directly into hair and scalp.

QAR600.

Men’s Zone April Package

Escape to a superlative state of renewal and natural glow with your own customized journey of a 60-minute Ritz-Carlton Massage and complimentary Express Facial at only QR 780.

Fitness Class Specials – Bring a Friend with You Purchase 2 fitness class (excluding yoga) and bring one of your friend free – save QR 75.

April Spa Retail Therapy

SIX SENCES SPA Arabesque style spa with sublime treatments using Australian Sodashi products.

Sharq Village & Spa, Khulaifat Tel: 4425 6999

REGULAR...

Save up to 15% off selected Natura Bisse Skin and Body Care merchandised items (Diamond Line).

Tuesdays & Fridays

Tuesdays

Gentlemen’s Spa Day

Ladies, leave the red carpet to gentlemen as they now enjoy the ultimate in pampering at The RitzCarlton, Doha with an exclusive 25% discount for all Spa for Him services.

Parent-Baby Swim Class

A study was conducted, showing that stimulating effect of swimming lessons for babies and toddlers has the potential to increase intelligence, concentration and alertness as well as improvement in the social, emotional and physical development has being adapted. Our expert in baby/ toddler swimming classes aims to make their sessions relaxed and fun, and to encourage learning through play. 30-minutes for QR80 per child (members) and QR100 Jaula Spa at the Grand Hyatt, one of Doha’s most luxurious per child (non-members).

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BODIES

SPA CHAKRA Luxury spa with views, a gym and a pool.

Al Funduq St, West Bay Tel: 4499 9250

THE SPA Gym, classes, whirlpool, spa, steam room, outdoor pool, beach, jacuzzi and tennis courts.

Doha Marriot, Khulaifat Tel: 4429 8520

LEISURE

RECREATION CLUB Gym and outdoor pool, beach, watersports, massages, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.

Al Istiqlal St, West Bay Lagoon Tel: 4484 7444

THE RITZ CARLTON SPA TREATMENTS Specialised facial treatments, essential facial therapies, facial enhancements, wellness service (massages), massage enhancements, scrub bar therapies (must be booked in conjunction with another treatment). Body therapies, senory journies, RC spa for him and a waxing service.

Membership is also available Ritz Carton Hotel Tel: 4484 8000

SPORTS

MEDICAL CITY Hydro, thermal stone, aromatherapy, Ayurvedic, Thai, Swedish, shoulder, neck and back Thai-yoga massages.

Reflexology. Morrocan bath, Balinese Island, Japanese and various other body treatments. Hair removal, manicure/predicure and a number of facial treatments.

Dermatology Clinic offers microdermabrasion and IPL L900 epliation treatments.

Villagio Tel: 4451 7725

The Ritz Carlton, Doha Contact No: +974 4484 8000 3093

NIGHTS

OZONE GYM & SPA Faicial and body treatments, hydrotherapy massage, steam room, sauna, indoor swimming pool and jacuzzi.

La Cigale Hotel, Sultan Bin Hamad Street Tel: 4428 8888

SPA SPOTLIGHT

EATS

LADY SIAM MASSAGE Thai massage. Women only.

Al Kinana St, Markab Tel: 4435 4115

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FINAL WORD

What’s your

QATAR

IQ

S.A.T’s? M.B.A’s? Pah! In Qatar, only one test score really matters: your Qatar IQ!

The massive Project Qatar expo takes place in Doha this month. Do you:

a go along and check out the latest developments in a booming construction industry? b take the biggest stand available to display the top-grade goods your company supplies? c why on EARTH would I want to attend an exhibition with a bunch of guys swapping stories about concrete?

The Sealine Cross-Country Rally hits Qatar’s deserts this month. Do you: a go along and get thoroughly dusty watching monstrously modded racing machines do battle with the desert?

b go along and take part, as you’ve entered your own team in the rally? c why on EARTH would I want to go and sit in the desert and watch noisy go karts turn fossil fuels into toxic fumes?

Hed Kandi will be bringing a little flavour of Miami to Doha’s shores this month at the InterContinental Hotel. Do you:

a buy a standard ticket and spend the night in the thick of the crowd dancing all night long? b buy a VIP ticket and feel superior as you lord it over everyone else on the raised VIP podiums? c why on EARTH would I want to go and watch overpaid glorified juke boxes play other people’s music when I could stay home and watch Grey’s Anatomy instead?

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