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Greetings from Marhaba! As we gear up for the hot desert summer, things slow down in the country and people start planning their summer holiday. But if you are going to be spending your summer in the country, don't worry, there's still a lot to do – events just move indoors. For an extensive list of what's happening around Qatar over the next few months take a look at our Events Calendars in the Discovering Qatar and Sports sections – or for daily updates visit marhaba.qa. If you need the Guide on the go, you can always buy the book online at marhaba.qa/eguides. Here you will also be able to access the latest Marhaba Shopping and Dining guides – as well as the Marhaba Information Guide in Arabic. Do pick up a copy of the newest edition of the Dining Guide that are on stands now!

ÂœĂ›iÀÊ “>}iĂŠĂŠ Ramadan begins on 6 June in 2016, with Eid Al Fitr celebrated fom 6 – 8 July in the country. Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak!

As always, in this issue you will find a number of engaging features on Qatar – from Smart Cities to Gentle Giants of the Water and much more in every section. Take a look at the feature Qatar's Iconic Buildings in the Special Features section; then visit marhaba.qa and you could win a dinner for two in April! We hope you find the Guide informative and helpful. To conclude, let me wish you during the Holy Month of Ramadan – Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak! We will see you again in the autumn.

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, ĂŠ*1 / " >À…>L>ĂŠ ˜vÂœĂ€Â“>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠ Ă•Âˆ`i >À…>L>ĂŠ ˆ˜ˆ˜}ĂŠ Ă•Âˆ`i >À…>L>ĂŠ-Â…ÂœÂŤÂŤÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ Ă•Âˆ`i >À…>L>ĂŠ*ÂœVÂŽiĂŒĂŠ >ÂŤĂŠÂœvĂŠ œ…> >À…>L>ĂŠ >Â?iˆ`ÂœĂƒVÂœÂŤi >À…>L>ĂŠ >Â?i˜`>Ă€Ăƒ +>ĂŒ>ÀÊ “>}i i ÂœÂœÂŽĂƒ

WELCOME MESSAGE M65.indd 1

AVAILABLE AT UĂŠ LĂ•ĂŠ >Ă€L>Â?ĂŠ ÂœÂœÂŽĂƒÂ…ÂœÂŤĂŠUĂŠ >ÂŽi“>Ă€ĂŒĂŠ UĂŠ >ÀÀivÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ(Dar Al Salam, City Center-Doha, Lagoona, Landmark, Villaggio) UĂŠ >“ˆÂ?ÞÊ œœ`ĂŠ iÂ˜ĂŒĂ€iĂŠ(Airport Street, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street) UĂŠ ĂŠ-ÞÊ ÂœÂœÂŽĂƒĂŒÂœĂ€iĂŠUĂŠ >Ă€ÂˆĂ€ĂŠ ÂœÂœÂŽĂƒĂŒÂœĂ€iĂŠ(Airport Street, Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street) UĂŠ ĂŠ->˜`ĂœÂˆVÂ…ĂŠ iÂ?Â?>ÀÊUĂŠ Ă•Â?Ă•ĂŠ ލiÀ“>ÀŽiĂŒĂŠ(Al Gharrafa, Al Khor, D Ring Road) UĂŠ Ă•Â?Ă•ĂŠ >Ă€Ăœ>ĂŠ ÂˆĂŒĂžĂŠUĂŠ Ă•Â?Ă•ĂŠ iÂ˜ĂŒĂ€iĂŠUĂŠ Ă•Â?Ă•ĂŠ Ă?ÂŤĂ€iĂƒĂƒ UĂŠ i}>ĂŠ >Ă€ĂŒĂŠ(The Centre) UĂŠ i}>ĂŠ >Ă€ĂŒĂŠ8ÂŤĂ€iĂƒĂƒĂŠ(Al Messila Petrol Station)ĂŠUĂŠ >>âĂŠ-ĂŒÂœĂ€iĂƒĂŠ UĂŠ6ÂˆĂ€}ÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ i}>ĂƒĂŒÂœĂ€iĂŠ(Landmark, Villaggio) UĂŠ7 ĂŠ-Â“ÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ(Hamad International Airport, Hyatt Plaza, Nuaija) UĂŠ7"+" ĂŠ*iĂŒĂ€ÂœÂ?ĂŠ-ĂŒ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Ăƒ

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In this issue... 11

Discovering Qatar Qatar at a Glance Cabinet Reshuffle Events in Qatar Do’s and Don’ts Arabic Phrases Foreign Embassies in Qatar Main Urban Centres Getting Around Qatar

13 15 19 28 29 30 32 43

Qatar Online Traveller Information Hamad International Airport Sightseeing Leisure Activities Day to Day Qatar Living in Qatar Revised Kafala Law 2015

48 51 53 59 78 85 87 92

Southeast Coast Infrastructure Projects Souq Area The Pearl-Qatar Education City Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City Small Industries Zone/Ind’l Area

42 104 187 189 297 312 388

Maps Qatar Northeast Coast Al Khor Al Dafna/West Bay Area Doha City Doha Central Area Al Wakra Mesaieed

105

115

8 33 34 35 36–38 39 40 41

Infrastructure Smart Cities Infrastructure in Qatar

106 107

Hospitality, Hotels and Dining Tourism in Qatar Places to Stay What’s On at Hotels Dining in Qatar All About Sushi Dining Guide Listings

173

Shopping Where to Shop Shopping in Qatar High End Shopping From Qatar With Love

193

Next issue issue Next

December 2013 August 2016

117 118 135 141 142 144

174 179 188 190

Special Features Ramadan Qatar’s Iconic Buildings Gentle Giants of the Water Fatima’s Chest Turning Dreams Into Reality Hop-On Hop-Off in Doha A New Era For Golf in Qatar

See our Features throughout the sections

194 196 200 204 206 210 214

219

239

307

Sports Sports in Qatar Sports Calendar Kids Clubs Samsung Diamond League Sports Activities

Education Useful Numbers Education in Qatar Hamad bin Khalifa University Education Courses/Lectures Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses

361

391

310 313 326 329 332, 336

Banking and Commerce 343 349 351 353 354

Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals The Global Perspective Qatar’s Oil Industry Qatar’s Gas Industry Qatar’s Petrochemical Industry Company Activities Qatar e-Nature

395 397 399 401 404 419

Advertising Havovi Rabadi Howard Bainbridge Carole Astin Retail Sales Sandra Alexander Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe Arnel Ramos Dana Design Studio Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the magazine accepts no liability in the case of unintentional errors.

Motoring WOQODe Cars Tested This Issue Main Car Showrooms Useful Numbers Motoring Essentials Traffic Violations – Points System Operation Desert Main Service Centres

Editorial Sarah Palmer Sarah Mascarenhas Terry Sutcliffe Gina Coleman Lindsey McCowan

Digital Media Andrea Buenafe Ayen Molina

Health and Beauty

Banking and Finance Economy Developing Local Talent Commerce Investment and Trade

Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge

Online Content Lubuna Jeffin

241 247 295 302 304

Useful Numbers Healthcare in Qatar Cancer Screening Initiatives Health and Wellness Spas and Beauty Centres

341

220 222 226 229 230

360 363 364 366 367 371 384 387

© 2016 Marhaba Information Guide All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

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Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 5533 4465 0083 Fax (+974) 4465 5588 General Information marhaba@qatar.net.qa Retail Sales retailsales@marhaba-qatar.com Printed in Qatar by Doha Modern Printing Press

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Discovering Qatar Map of Qatar Qatar at a Glance • • • • •

Geography • History • Climate Language and Religion • The Ruling Family The Qatari Flag • Government • Economy International Relations • Demography Transport and Communications

19 Events April – July 28 Do’s and Don’ts 29 Arabic Phrases 30 Foreign Embassies 32 Main Urban Centres 33 Doha City and other maps Around Qatar 43 Getting • New Interchanges • Major Road Developments • Karwa Taxis • Karwa Limousines

48 Qatar Online 51 Traveller Information

• Visas • eCash Cards • Entry Visas • eGate Cards • Car Rental, Taxis and Limousines • Airlines • Travel Agencies

53

Hamad International Airport • • • • • •

Parking • Arrivals/Departures Lounges • Connectivity Medical Emergencies Travelling with Animals • Duty Free Food and Beverage • The Airport Hotel Medical Emergencies

59 Sightseeing

Things to see and do in Qatar, from Art and Photography to Organised Tours

78 Leisure Activities

Clubs, Societies and Activities, from Arts and Crafts to Parks and Play Zones

85 Day to Day Qatar

• Common Courtesies • Accidents and Medical Emergencies • Newspapers • Telephone • Public Wireless Internet • Television and Radio • Places of Worship

in Qatar 87 Living • Government Online • • • • • • •

Useful Documents/Processing The Qatar Labour Law Register at Your Embassy Residence/Work Permits Renew a Residence Permit Exit Permits • Identity Cards Health Related Services

99 Housing • To Rent • Estate/Letting Agents • To Buy • Lawyers and Legal • Relocation Services/Removal Firms • Other Housing Considerations

104 Utilities and Services • • • • • • •

Water and Electricity Gas Telephone and Internet Postal Services and Mail Courier Services Birth, Marriage and Death Liquor Permit

Discovering Qatar

8 13

108 Pets

• Pets • Exporting a Pet • Microchipping • Private Veterinary Clinics and Services

Features – Cabinet Reshuffle Revised Kafala Law 2015

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The Ruling Family UĂŠThe Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, assumed power on 25 June 2013.

Qatar at a Glance

His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Â“ÂˆĂ€ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ-ĂŒ>ĂŒiĂŠÂœvĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Ă€

UĂŠ/Â…iÊÀÕÂ?ˆ˜}ĂŠ Â?ĂŠ/Â…>Â˜ÂˆĂŠv>“ˆÂ?ĂžĂŠĂœ>ĂƒĂŠ>“œ˜}ĂŠ>ĂŠĂŒĂ€ÂˆL>Â?ĂŠ}Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤĂŠĂœÂ…ÂœĂŠ Â…>`ĂŠĂƒiĂŒĂŒÂ?i`ĂŠ>ĂŒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂż ˆLĂ€ÂˆÂ˜ÂżĂŠÂœ>ĂƒÂˆĂƒĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂƒÂœĂ•ĂŒÂ…iĂ€Â˜ĂŠ >Â?`]ĂŠLivÂœĂ€iĂŠ ĂŒÂ…iÂˆĂ€ĂŠ>Ă€Ă€ÂˆĂ›>Â?ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ+>ĂŒ>ÀÊ`Ă•Ă€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠi>Ă€Â?ÞÊ£nĂŒÂ…ĂŠViÂ˜ĂŒĂ•Ă€Ăž°ĂŠ Â˜ÂˆĂŒÂˆ>Â?Â?Ăž]ĂŠ ĂŒÂ…iĂžĂŠĂƒiĂŒĂŒÂ?i`ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ<Ă•L>Ă€>ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂ€ĂŒÂ…iĂ€Â˜ĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Ă€]ĂŠÂ“ÂœĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ œ…>ĂŠ ÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂ“Âˆ`Â‡ÂŁÂ™ĂŒÂ…ĂŠViÂ˜ĂŒĂ•Ă€Ăž°ĂŠ/Â…iĂŠv>“ˆÂ?ĂžĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ>ĂŠLĂ€>˜VÂ…ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ancient Arab tribe, the Bani Tameem, whose descent can be traced back to Mudar bin Nizar. UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠÂ˜>“iĂŠ Â?ĂŠ/Â…>Â˜ÂˆĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ`iĂ€ÂˆĂ›i`ĂŠvĂ€ÂœÂ“ĂŠĂŒÂ…>ĂŒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠv>“ˆÂ?Ăž½ĂƒĂŠ >˜ViĂƒĂŒÂœĂ€ĂŠ/Â…>Â˜ÂˆĂŠLÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ œ…>“>`ĂŠLÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ/Â…>˜ˆ]ĂŠĂœÂ…ÂœĂŠĂœ>ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠvÂˆĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠ sheikh to rule modern Qatar.

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Father Emir

The Qatari Flag UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠÂ˜>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠvÂ?>}ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠÂ“>Ă€ÂœÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ>ĂŠLĂ€Âœ>`ĂŠĂ›iĂ€ĂŒÂˆV>Â?ĂŠĂœÂ…ÂˆĂŒiĂŠ stripe at the pole, the two colours being separated with a nine-point serrated line which indicates Qatar as the ninth “i“LiĂ€ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iÊ¿ÀiVœ˜VˆÂ?i`ĂŠ Â“ÂˆĂ€>ĂŒiĂƒÂżĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ Ă•Â?v]ĂŠ>vĂŒiĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ÂŁÂ™ÂŁĂˆĂŠ+>ĂŒ>À‡ Ă€ÂˆĂŒÂˆĂƒÂ…ĂŠ/Ă€i>ĂŒĂž°

ÂˆĂƒĂŠ Ă?ViÂ?Â?i˜VĂž Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani *Ă€ÂˆÂ“iĂŠ ÂˆÂ˜ÂˆĂƒĂŒiÀÊ>˜`ĂŠ ÂˆÂ˜ÂˆĂƒĂŒiĂ€ĂŠÂœvĂŠ Â˜ĂŒiĂ€ÂˆÂœĂ€

UĂŠ7Â…ÂˆĂŒiĂŠĂƒÂˆ}˜ˆvˆiĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŒiĂ€Â˜>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?Â?ÞÊÀiVÂœ}Â˜ÂˆĂƒi`ĂŠĂƒĂžÂ“LÂœÂ?ĂŠÂœvĂŠ ÂŤi>Vi°ĂŠ >Ă€ÂœÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂƒĂžÂ“LÂœÂ?ÂˆĂƒiĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠLÂ?œœ`ĂŠĂƒÂ…i`ĂŠ`Ă•Ă€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ĂƒiĂ›iĂ€>Â?ĂŠĂœ>Ă€ĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…>ĂŒĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Àʅ>ĂƒĂŠĂ•Â˜`iĂ€}œ˜i]ĂŠÂŤ>Ă€ĂŒÂˆVĂ•Â?>Ă€Â?ĂžĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ĂƒiVœ˜`ĂŠÂ…>Â?vĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂŁÂ™ĂŒÂ…ĂŠViÂ˜ĂŒĂ•Ă€Ăž°

Government UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠ Â“ÂˆĂ€ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iÊÀÕÂ?iĂ€ĂŠÂœvĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Ă€°ĂŠ,Ă•Â?iĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ Â…iĂ€i`ÂˆĂŒ>ÀÞ]ĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠÂŤÂœĂœiĂ€ĂŠĂŒĂ€>Â˜ĂƒviÀÀi`ĂŠvĂ€ÂœÂ“ĂŠv>ĂŒÂ…iĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ ĂƒÂœÂ˜°ĂŠ vĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŠĂƒÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠ>Ă›>ˆÂ?>LÂ?i]ĂŠÂŤÂœĂœiĂ€ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂŒĂ€>Â˜ĂƒviÀÀi`ĂŠ to the person whom the Emir chooses within the Â?ĂŠ/Â…>Â˜ÂˆĂŠv>“ˆÂ?Ăž° UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠ Â“ÂˆĂ€ĂŠÂˆĂƒĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠÂ…i>`ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŒÂˆĂŒĂ•ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ authorities, holding both legislative and executive powers. The Emir appoints the prime minister and ministers. UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠÂœvĂŠ ÂˆÂ˜ÂˆĂƒĂŒiĂ€ĂƒĂŠ­ >Lˆ˜iĂŒÂŽ]ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠĂƒĂ•ÂŤĂ€i“iĂŠ iĂ?iVĂ•ĂŒÂˆĂ›iĂŠ>Ă•ĂŒÂ…ÂœĂ€ÂˆĂŒĂžĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠVÂœĂ•Â˜ĂŒĂ€Ăž]ĂŠ>ĂƒĂƒÂˆĂƒĂŒĂƒĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ ÂˆÂ“ÂŤÂ?i“iÂ˜ĂŒÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ}i˜iĂ€>Â?ĂŠÂŤÂœÂ?ˆVˆiĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ-ĂŒ>ĂŒi° UĂŠ ĂŠĂŽx‡“i“LiÀÊ `Ă›ÂˆĂƒÂœĂ€ĂžĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠ`iL>ĂŒiĂƒĂŠ economic, political and administrative matters Ă€iviÀÀi`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠÂˆĂŒĂŠLĂžĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ >Lˆ˜iĂŒ° UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŒÂˆĂŒĂ•ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ`iĂ›iÂ?ÂœÂŤÂ“iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠÂœvĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Àʅ>ĂƒĂŠ kept pace with the rapid development and iVœ˜œ“ˆVĂŠ}Ă€ÂœĂœĂŒÂ…ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠVÂœĂ•Â˜ĂŒĂ€Ăž°ĂŠ 14

M65 SPRING/SUMMER 2016 Š

QATAR AT A GLANCE M65.indd 2

UĂŠ/Â…iĂŠvÂˆĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠÂŤĂ€ÂœĂ›ÂˆĂƒÂˆÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠVÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŒÂˆĂŒĂ•ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂœ>ĂƒĂŠÂˆĂƒĂƒĂ•i`ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ 1970, and amended in 1972 upon independence. Â˜ĂŠ ÂŤĂ€ÂˆÂ?ĂŠĂ“ääĂŽ]ĂŠ>Â˜ĂŠÂœĂ›iĂ€ĂœÂ…iÂ?“ˆ˜}ĂŠÂ™Ăˆ°ĂˆÂŻĂŠÂœvĂŠ +>ĂŒ>Ă€ÂˆĂŠĂ›ÂœĂŒiĂ€ĂƒĂŠĂƒ>ˆ`Ê¿ÞiĂƒÂżĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>ĂŠ`Ă€>vĂŒĂŠÂŤiÀ“>˜iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠ VÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŒÂˆĂŒĂ•ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂœÂ…ÂˆVÂ…ĂŠLiV>“iĂŠivviVĂŒÂˆĂ›iĂŠÂœÂ˜ĂŠnĂŠ Ă•Â˜iĂŠ Ă“ääx]ĂŠĂŒĂ€>Â˜ĂƒvÂœĂ€Â“ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Ă€ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŒÂœĂŠ>ĂŠ`i“œVĂ€>VĂž°ĂŠ UĂŠ Â˜ĂŠÂŁÂ™Â™Â™]ĂŠvĂ€iiĂŠiÂ?iVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠĂœiĂ€iĂŠÂ…iÂ?`ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠvÂœĂ€Â“ĂŠ>ĂŠ ә‡“i“LiÀÊ iÂ˜ĂŒĂ€>Â?ĂŠ Ă•Â˜ÂˆVÂˆÂŤ>Â?ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠ­ ÂŽĂŠ vÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠvÂˆĂ€ĂƒĂŒĂŠĂŒÂˆÂ“iĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ+>ĂŒ>Ă€½ĂƒĂŠÂ…ÂˆĂƒĂŒÂœĂ€Ăž°ĂŠ7œ“iÂ˜ĂŠ were allowed to vote and run as candidates. The constitution was amended in 2003 to allow vÂœĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ`ÂˆĂ€iVĂŒĂŠiÂ?iVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŽäʓi“LiĂ€ĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ `Ă›ÂˆĂƒÂœĂ€ĂžĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?°ĂŠ iÂ?`ĂŠiĂ›iÀÞÊvÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠĂži>Ă€Ăƒ]ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ ˆvĂŒÂ…ĂŠ iÂ˜ĂŒĂ€>Â?ĂŠ Ă•Â˜ÂˆVÂˆÂŤ>Â?ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜VˆÂ?ĂŠ Â?iVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠĂœ>ĂƒĂŠ Â…iÂ?`ĂŠÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ >ÞÊÓä£x°ĂŠ/Â…iĂŠÂ˜Ă•Â“LiĂ€ĂŠÂœvĂŠÂ?ÂˆĂƒĂŒi`ĂŠĂ›ÂœĂŒiĂ€ĂƒĂŠ reached 21,735. Voting was conducted in 26 VÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŒÂˆĂŒĂ•i˜VˆiĂƒĂŠ>vĂŒiĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…Ă€iiĂŠV>˜`ˆ`>ĂŒiĂƒĂŠĂœÂœÂ˜ĂŠLÞÊ acclamation. Voter turnout in constituencies Ăœ>ĂƒĂŠĂˆÂ™°n¯°ĂŠ

MARHABA

3/6/16 4:32 PM

Cabinet Reshuffle In January 2016 The Emir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani issued Emiri Order No 1 of 2016 amending the formation of the Council of Ministers, replacing the foreign minister and merging some ministries.

Seven changes to the Cabinet were announced as several ministries were merged. The decree made the following appointments: UÊ HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah as Minister of State for Defense Affairs and member of the Council of Ministers (previously Foreign Minister) UÊ HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdurrahman Al Thani as Foreign Minister (previously in charge of international cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs). UÊ HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali as Minister of Culture and Sports

Cabinet Reshuffle

In a speech made at the time, the Emir said that Qatar needed to diversify its income and he urged an end to corruption. He said citizens should not 'fear or panic' about the tumbling price of hydrocarbons. He continued: 'As citizens your responsibilities are greater due to the low oil prices; however, citizens' welfare and way of life should not be affected by the situation.' The Supreme Council of Health (SCH) was also abolished. The new Ministry of Public Health, which has taken over the responsibilities of the SCH, will also regulate the Primary Healthcare Corporation (PHCC) that runs the primary health centres across the country, and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) that manages the public hospitals. HMC’s Director General will be under the supervision of the Minister. The PHCC will continue providing integrated primary healthcare services according to the ministry’s regulations and standards. m

UÊ HE Dr Issa Bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi as Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs UÊ HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti as Minister of Transport and Communications UÊ HE Mohamed bin Abdullah Al Rumaihi as Minister of Municipality and Environment UÊ HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari as Minister of Public Health UÊ Emiri Order No 2 of 2016 appointed HE Major General Hamad bin Ali Al Attiyah as advisor to the Emir for Defense Affairs, with the rank of prime minister (the Emir holds the post of Defence Minister) As well as the merger of some ministries, the Supreme Education Council was abolished and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education was established. State-run Independent schools are expected to see major structural changes – the term ‘Independent school’ may be cancelled and facilities may remain as boys and girls schools. The new ministry has confirmed strategies and work plans set by the SEC will continue. Pictured: HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah; HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari; HE Major General Hamad bin Ali Al Attiyah ©

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18 – 19

IASTEM Conferences The International Academy of Science, Technology, Engineering and Management (IASTEM) is hosting a number of conferences to promote and enhance education on topics such as the environment and natural science, civil and architectural engineering, and more. At the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. iastem.org

Events April – July

24 – 26

Qatar International Exhibition for Transport and Logistics Incorporating Trans4, the largest exhibition of its kind in Qatar, and one of the largest in the Middle East region. At *DEC.

June 6 June

The Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. Eating, drinking and smoking are forbidden in public, and restaurants and cafés close in daylight hours (apart from those in hotels), but stay open well into the night. Working, school and shopping hours may change. Iftar, Sohour and Ramadan Tents Many restaurants provide a buffet-style Iftar meal to break the fast at sunset, while at the major hotels beautifully decorated Ramadan tents offer both Iftar and Sohour. Garangaou Celebrated on the 14th night of Ramadan, where children will dress in traditional attire and visit neighbours and friends to receive sweets and nuts to put in their Garangaou bag. A variety of packaged sweets with a traditional theme are available for sale.

6 July

Eid Al Fitr Many activities will take place during the Eid Al Fitr Festival, including fireworks, magical and artistic shows. Look out for events at Katara, The Pearl-Qatar, Souq Waqif, the Corniche and the shopping malls. Keep up to date with all the events as they are announced at marhaba.qa

Upcoming events September

3rd Annual Future Interiors Qatar Understanding and implementing new technologies and strategies to maximise the role of interior design in upcoming major projects in Qatar. qatargbc.org

October

Arab Diabetes Medical Congress Connecting policy makers, diabetes experts, and researchers to exchange knowledge and generate new ideas that will foster the advancement in prevention and control of diabetes in the region. Venue to be confirmed.

October

Gulf Expo Qatar A chance for students to meet representatives from American colleges and universities. isnexpo.com ©

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Throughout the Year Lectures, exhibitions and workshops U Brookings Doha Center Policy discussions. 4422 7800, brookings.edu/about/centers/doha B3 UÊ Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar Distinguished Lecture Series, discussions, seminars and workshops 4457 8100, qatar.sfs.georgetown.edu D4 UÊ Katara Exhibitions, events, tours and workshops. 4408 0000, katara.net B3 UÊ >Ì >v\Ê À>LÊ ÕÃiÕ Ê vÊ `iÀ Ê ÀÌÊExhibitions, events, tours and programmes. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C1

Events April – July

UÊ ÕÃiÕ Ê vÊ Ã > VÊ ÀÌÊTemporary and permanent exhibitions, plus outreach activities and events for adults and children at the Education Centre. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa C4 UÊ Qatar Foundation Senior convocations, celebrations of QF achievements and high-profile summits. 4454 0000, qf.org.qa C1/2 UÊ 6 À} >Ê Üi> Ì Ê1 ÛiÀÃ ÌÞÊ vÊ ÀÌÃÊ Ê+>Ì>ÀÊ­6 1+>Ì>À® Gallery lectures and exhibitions, community classes. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu.edu C1

ÕÃ V]Ê`À> >Ê> `Ê i ÃÕÀiÊ UÊ >Ê Õ ÌÞÊ"ÀV iÃÌÀ> A full size symphony orchestra and wind symphony for amateur musicians. dohaorchestra.com UÊ >Ê Ê ÃÌ ÌÕÌi Regular film screenings and festivals, workshops and educational programmes. dohafilminstitute.com UÊ Doha Jazz The ensemble play several genres of jazz as well as other styles such as blues, salsa and classical music. dohajazz.com UÊ Shehrazad Pub Quiz Held on the last Monday of each month at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. 4428 1555, radissonblu.com UÊ +>Ì>ÀÊ* >À VÊ"ÀV iÃÌÀ> Regular performances of Western and Arabic music. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org UÊ -1 +ÊqÊ-Ì> `Ê1«Ê i`ÞÊ+>Ì>ÀÊSupports up and coming comedians and hoss regular events and tours. facebook.com/SUCQatar UÊ / iÊ >Ê* >ÞiÀÃÊ(pictured) An amateur dramatic society that presents a range of drama at professional standards throughout the year. facebook.com/The-Doha-Players

UÊ / iÊ >Õ} ÌiÀÊ >VÌ ÀÞÊMonthly comedy nights at the Rose & Thistle, Horizon Manor Hotel. 5533 5451 Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation. The Sports Events Calendar can be found in the Sports section. To be included in our listings, email details to marhaba@qatar.net.qa For all the up to date news and events, visit our website at marhaba.qa Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. m ++>Ì>ÀÊ >Ì > Ê Ûi Ì Ê i ÌÀiÊ­+

®, Qatar Foundation C4 4470 7000, qatarconvention.com © >Ê Ý L Ì Ê> `Ê Ûi Ì Ê i ÌÀiÊ­

®ÊC3 decc.qa

Checked & Updated February 2016

UÊ / iÊ >Ê- }iÀÃÊQatar's largest and oldest amateur choir. dohasingers.com

I >Ê Ý L Ì ÃÊ i ÌiÀÊ­ ®, Lusail Street B3 U+>Ì>ÀÊ/ ÕÀ Ã Ê ÕÌ À ÌÞÊ­+/ ®Ê4499 7499, qatartourism.gov.qa, onqatar.qa ^Katara B3 Lusail Street, 4408 0000, katara.net 26

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Smart Cities

Smart Cities

A number of smart cities are being developed in the Middle East region. These are being called 'the cities of the future' – mixed-use suburbs which can enhance people's lifestyle and empower businesses through efficient and sustainable services. This can benefit daily life in many ways, including transportation, utilities and healthcare. With many major cities facing rapid urbanisation, smart cities are becoming a necessity. The smart city concept is central to the longterm development of Qatar and is in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 of enabling a smart economy, smart mobility and cleaner environment. Many of the state's projects are greenfield, enabling the latest technologies and solutions to be incorporated right from the start. This is also cheaper than retrofitting brownfield sites. Qatar’s annual smart cities event, Arab Future Cities Summit, is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment Qatar. More than 350 delegates attend – government officials, academics, urban service providers and city development experts who share their experiences, as well as best practices for implementing the smart cities of tomorrow.

106

December 2015 saw the completion of a successful smart metering trial Lusail City did in collaboration with Ooredoo, conducted in the Ooredoo Advanced Smart Innovative Solutions (OASIS) Lab in Doha. Smart meters are the next generation of power meters, delivering a range of intelligent functions – these can allow homeowners to understand how much energy they are using on a display in their home, and help city planners manage demand for water and power. The Lusail Command & Control Centre (LCCC) is the heart of Lusail Smart City where all smart services management and monitoring will be centralised. LCCC is made of two main functional components: a world-class situation room used as an Operation Center, and a highly sophisticated Data Center. Meanwhile MDD is a QAR20 billion downtown regeneration project spread over 76 acres and will be a blend of traditional Qatari heritage and modern technology. Some of the ICT solutions that are being incorporated within MDD include citizen contact, multiplay and communication infrastructure, community portal, city services and access to external services.

Qatar has ambitious plans to construct a number of these new urban areas, including at Lusail City and Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD).

The master plan for the project was initially conceived several years ago, meaning developers have had to keep improving designs while incorporating the latest technological solutions.

Lusail City, a flagship project of the Qatari Diar, is the largest single development to be undertaken in Qatar. It will provide a switched on, high-technology environment comprising both wired and wireless communication networks on the Ooredoo Supernet, deploying smart city technology to reduce environmental impact and enhance the lifestyles of residents and visitors.

Much of the success of smart cities rests on the integration of new technologies alongside older ones. There will be continued advancements in mobile connectivity, big data management, cloud computing and smart devices, with 5G technology and full broadband coverage. So look forward to sitting in driverless vehicles and using city sensors for weather updates! m

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Infrastructure in Qatar Under QNV 2030, all new projects should provide a high standard of living for future generations, with investments in education and research, healthcare, transport and industry. This will enable Qatar to sustain its own development by 2030. Qatar has laid out plans for a bold new future with the construction of an integrated transport system, a major overhaul of roads and highways, drainage and sewage, and the renovation of downtown Doha.

Economic Strategy

Qatar National Vision As arguably the world’s fastest-growing economy, Qatar recognises the importance of diversification and sustainability. It also acknowledges the inherent challenges of a rapidly-increasing population, further industrialisation, and the resultant need for an ever-expanding infrastructure. To confront and manage those challenges in an effective manner, an ambitious and far-sighted policy document, Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030, was first published in 2008. Based on the guiding principles of the Permanent Constitution, it defined the nation’s medium-to-long-term objectives and created a framework for sustainable national strategies. The first wave of specific actions and targets in the next chapter of Qatar’s transformation were defined in the Qatar National Development Strategy (NDS) 2011–2016. The aim is to transform Qatar into an advanced, vibrant, caring and prosperous nation by the year 2030. Crucial considerations include balancing the needs of this generation with those of the future; managing growth to prevent uncontrolled expansion; and moulding the nature and size of an appropriate expatriate workforce. QNV 2030 rests on four pillars – Human, Social, Economic and Environmental Development – each with clearly defined individual long-term outcomes yet important inter-relationships. Qatar’s human capital is recognised as its greatest asset. QNV 2030 stresses the important roles of education, health and sport in expanding the opportunities and capabilities of all the people of Qatar, enabling them to develop and sustain a prosperous knowledge-driven society.

According to the International Monetary Fund, Qatar is making good progress towards its aim of achieving 100% budget financing through revenues from the non-hydrocarbon sectors by 2020. It stated in November 2015 that: 'Qatar has been one of the fastest growing countries in the region and the near-term macroeconomic outlook remains strong.' Infrastructural spending is being further boosted in advance of Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World CupTM, an event expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors and to increase tourism both before and after the event. The Ministry of Labour indicates that the demand for workers has been rising ever since Qatar’s bid victory in 2010. The budget issued in December 2015 shows that the government is still spending heavily on infrastructure, with 45.4% or QAR91.9 billion of the total being allocated to projects. Qatar’s economy has historically been significantly boosted by growth in the oil, gas and petrochemicals industries. However the government is taking steps to diversify economic development elsewhere, especially in view of the current downturn in oil prices. Education, sports, medical and cultural tourism are being developed and Qatar is emerging as a major player in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) market.

Conferences and Exhibitions As an increasingly influential player in the region’s MICE market, Qatar opened its first major facility in 2011. The Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), a member of Qatar Foundation, is an iconic venue in terms of both design and green technology. ©

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Infrastructure in Qatar

Khalifa International Stadium

Qatar’s Economic Development plans aim to create and sustain a competitive and diversified economy capable of meeting the needs of, and securing a high standard of living for, its population now and in the future.

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Places to Stay HOTELS

TELEPHONE

MAP

ROOMS+SERVICED

Places to Stay

APARTMENTS

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FIVE-STAR HOTELS Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara City Centre Rotana Doha Concorde Hotel Doha Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park Doha Marriott Hotel Double Tree by Hilton Four Seasons Hotel Doha Governor West Bay Suites and Residences Grand Heritage Doha Hotel & Spa Grand Hyatt Doha Grand Regal Hotel Hilton Doha InterContinental Doha InterContinental Doha The City Kempinski Residences & Suites La Cigale Hotel, Doha Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl Meliá Doha Millennium Hotel Doha Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha Oryx Rotana Doha Saraya Corniche Hotel Sealine Beach Resort Simaisma, a Murwab Resort Shangri-La Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels (SWBH) by Avani Al Bidda Boutique Hotel Al Jasra Boutique Hotel Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel Al Najada Boutique Hotel Arumaila Boutique Hotel Musheireb Boutique Hotel Najd Boutique Hotel The Airport Hotel The Ritz-Carlton, Doha The Royal Riviera Hotel The St. Regis Doha The Torch–Doha The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa M65 SPRING/SUMMER 2016 ©

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4040 4445 4407 4408 4429 4034 4494 4445 4445 4448 4409 4423 4484 4015 4405 4428 4419 4035 4019 4424 4496 4402 4497 4476 4479 4429 4425 4485 4433

4010 4484 4020 4446 4446 3361

5050 8888 3333 7777 8888 3333 8888 1555 5555 1234 4444 3333 4444 8888 3333 8888 5555 5555 9999 7777 6600 3333 3777 5299 9555 5000 6666 4444 6666

8100 8000 9888 0000 5600 8842

C5 C3 D4 D4 D4 D3 C4 B3 D1 A3 D4 B4 B3 C3 B3 B3 C3 A4 B4 D3 C4 D4 D4 D4 C3 D4 C4

141 400 210 378 362 145 232 190 136 249+91 211 309 258 525 370 234 577 281 317 226 347 400 220 77 57 272 174 371

D3 D3 D3 D3 D3 D3 D3 D3 D5 A3 B4 B3 D2 D3

32 26 14 35 22 19 14 17 100 374 154 336 163 365

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LICENSED BAR

SPA

SWIMMING POOL

hiahotel.com ritzcarlton.com/middleeast theroyalrivierahotel.com.qa stregisdoha.com thetorchdoha.com starwoodshotel.com/westin

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Places to Stay

doha.anantara.com rotana.com/citycenterrotanadoha concordedoha.com crowneplaza.com/doha dohamarriott.com doubletree3.hilton.com fourseasons.com/doha governorsuites.com grandheritagedoha.com doha.grand.hyatt.com grandregal.com hilton.com ihg.com ihg.com kempinski.com/en/doha lacigalehotel.com marriott.com/hotels kempinski.com/marsamalaz melia.com/melia_doha millenniumhotels.com movenpick.com/doha-westbay rotana.com sarayacorniche.com merweb.com simaisma.com shangri-la.com/doha ritzcarlton.com/sharqvillage sheratondoha.com swbh.com

RESTAURANT

S

FITNESS CENTRE

WEBSITE/EMAIL

BUS/CONF FACILITIES

RVICED

FACILITIES

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara

The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Warwick Doha Hotel

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Shopping

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187 188

Where to Shop Listings Telephone numbers and location details for some of the most popular retail outlets

Shopping in Qatar • • • •

New in Town • Malls • Souqs and Small Shops • Mall Listings Hypermarkets and Supermarkets • Department Stores The Wholesale Food Markets • The Pearl-Qatar • Barwa Village Food, Glorious Food • Souqs

Map of Souq Area Finding your way around the souqs has never been easier

High End Shopping Telephone numbers and location details for some of Qatar’s most luxurious retail outlets

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Map of The Pearl-Qatar

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Feature – From Qatar With Love

Shopping

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Your guide to retail outlets and more at The Pearl-Qatar

Taking home appropriate souvenirs can be challenging, so we offer you a list of some of the best things to take home from Qatar.

©

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Where to Shop

Where to Shop

Affordable and Budget Ansar Gallery E4 Daiso (Hyatt Plaza) D1 Dollar Plus (City Center-Doha) C3 Dragon Mart (Industrial Area) F2 Sana Fashions D4

Florists 4436 4468 4483 4436 5527

0274 9332 9990 0274 0791

Audio Visual/Computers/Electronics Almana & Partners (Philips) D3 Almuftah Group C3 Domasco (Astron) F4 Darwish Trading (Kenwood, Hoover) Emax Various locations Lifetrons (Royal Plaza) D3 Mannai Trading Co (Salwa Road) D3 Starlink Various locations Veho (Royal Plaza) D3

4431 4444 4424 4456 4428 7733 4455 4428 4413

1072 6867 6750 8816 9245 4274 8888 3888 1177

Bookshops, Stationery and Art Supplies Abu Karbal Bookshop D3 Colour Note Company D3 Events (Royal Plaza) D3 Gulf Greetings Various locations I Spy Bookshop (City Center-Doha) C3 Jarir Bookstore Various locations Naaz Store (Matar Qadeem) A6

4436 0274 4441 8548 4413 1155 4483 8117 4493 4482 4444 0212 4432 4235

Chocolates and Sweets Chopin (City Center-Doha) C3 4483 Edible Arrangements Various locations 4491 FAUCHON (Salwa Road) B5 4432 4469 Patchi Various locations 4432 Patisserie Suisse Various locations

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4432 8111 4444 0789 4432 2717 4428 8888 4486 2510

Furnishing Al Mana Maples (Al Asiri Interch) D3 Articles (Royal Plaza) D3 Artifacts of Arabia (Umm Slal Mohd) BHS Home (City Center-Doha) C3 City Lifestyle (City Center-Doha) C3 Habitat (Airport Street) D4 Homecentre (Nr Jaidah Flyover) D3 ID Design (The Mall) E4 Ikea (Doha Festival City) A1 Maya Paris (The Pearl-Qatar) A4 KA International Various locations Simex Trading (DaVinci, Kids House) E2

4448 9090 4413 1188 5561 4573 4482 2190 4483 8509 4448 9982 4435 5300 4467 8777 800 4532 4495 3876 4468 2618 4441 4447

Gifts and Souvenirs Al Mushiri (Al Khaleej Street) D3 Artifacts of Arabia (Umm Slal Mohd)

4442 3030 5561 4573

Gulf Crafts (Salwa Road) D3

4468 7373

Jewellery and Watches 4747 1113 4888 3350 1213

DIY Hempel Paints Various locations Jotun Paints Various locations

Casa Flora (Salwa Road) D3 Gardenia (Al Nasar St) D3 Interflora D4 La Cigale Hotel D2 Plaza Hollandi Various locations

4455 9000 4441 2728

Al Jaber Watches (The Mall) E4 Al Muftah Jewellery (Al Sadd Street) D3 Awal Jewellery (Gold Souq) D3 Damas Various locations Domasco Various locations Marhaba Jewellery (Gold Souq) D3 Pearl Gallery Various locations Tribal Gems (Gold Souq) D3

4467 8484 4444 1320 4443 4551 4442 5428 4483 9327 4431 8055 5511 4772 5539 7578

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Special Features Ramadan

206 Turning Dreams Into Reality

A brief look at this special time of year for Muslims around the world, during which strict fasting is observed from sunrise to sunset.

196

Qatar’s Iconic Buildings

The Qatar Genome Project will chart a road map for future treatment through personalised medicine in the country,

210 Hop-On Hop-Off in Doha

Doha is culturally rich and is sprinkled with stunning attractions. Hop on the Doha Bus for a convenient and exciting sightseeing experience.

Stunning new buildings seem to be popping up every time you turn around in Qatar. Here are some of the most iconic you’re likely to spot around town.

200 Gentle Giants of the Water

Learn more about Qatar Whale Shark Research, a scientific project exploring the whale shark population in Qatari waters.

204

214

A New Era for Golf in Qatar

Special Features

194

Introducing Qatar International Golf Club, a sustainable championship course in Education City.

Fatima’s Chest

Abeer Al Kuwari features the batula in her new photography series.

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Ramadan

Ramadan

Every year in the month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the lunar year), all Muslims fast from dawn until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, smoking and marital relations with the explicit intention of doing so for the sake of Allah. This will be until the maghrib (sunset) prayer. The fasting period during Ramadan is called sawm which means 'to refrain', and is one of the five pillars of Islam – it is an obligation for all Muslims. 'The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period [of fasting] and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful.' (Quran 2: 185)

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Allah commands Muslims to fast in order to seek His pleasure, and in doing so they raise their levels of spirituality trying to get closer to Allah. By changing habits and daily routines in accordance to divine orders, Muslims can learn that they are not the slaves of their habits but the servants of Allah. By cutting oneself off voluntarily from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person also gains true sympathy with those who go without food and water on a regular basis. Fasting is much more than simply not eating or drinking. This period of time can be used to re-evaluate one's life, make peace with those who have wronged them, strengthen ties with family and friends, and do away with bad habits. It is sunnah for Muslims to break their fast with dates and maybe some laban (yogurt), to ease themselves into eating again and prepare their stomachs. After this, they pray the maghrib prayer either before or after having iftar, which is the evening meal Muslims break their fast with. The second most important meal after iftar is the suhoor, consumed early morning before fajr (sunrise) prayer.

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In addition to fasting, Muslims attempt to read the whole Quran, which comprises 114 chapters. Besides the obligatory five prayers Muslims perform on a daily basis, during Ramadan Muslims are encouraged to perform non-obligatory, additional night prayers. The most important of these is Tarawih, an evening prayer performed daily at the mosque during the Holy Month. The second most important prayer in Ramadan is Qiyam Al Layl, a night prayer performed during the last 10 days of Ramadan.

Ramadan

Ramadan at night Doha comes alive at night and two of the most enjoyable aspects of Ramadan are the iftar and suhoor offerings at hotels and restaurants across the country. Many hotels and restaurants erect Ramadan tents specifcally for iftar and suhoor, which are open from sunset until the early hours of the morning. It is a sociable way to break the fast – there are typically many traditional dishes to try, accompanied by live Arabic music. See the Hospitality, Hotels and Dining section for details of Ramadan promotions, and visit our website at marhaba.qa for more details and updates. Restaurants will be busy during this time so remember to book in advance.

Some things to consider during Ramadan UÊ It is illegal to smoke, drink, eat, or chew gum in public places for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. If you flout the rules you could end up with a fine from the police or even in prison. UÊ Avoid singing or dancing in public and dress more conservatively and modestly, especially if you are a woman. UÊ All cafés, restaurants, juice stalls and fast food outlets close during the day and reopen after sunset. However, some hotels remain open to serve their guests. UÊ Alcohol is completely restricted. No restaurant will sell alcohol, and Qatar Distribution Company (QDC), bars, lounges and nigthclubs close for the month. UÊ Opening times of shops change: most shops close around noon (the hottest time of day), but are open in the morning and late into the night, although some supermarkets do open during the afternoon. After sunset, malls and souqs become incredibly busy and parking spaces are scarce. UÊ Working hours are shorter. As per the Qatar Labour Law, the normal working day of eight hours, or 48 hours a week, will be reduced to six hours, or 36 hours a week, on the basis of a six-day week. This is for all employees whether or not they are Muslim and/or fasting during Ramadan. UÊ There is a three-day public holiday at the end of Ramadan – Eid Al Fitr, or Festival of Fast-Breaking – where it is customary to wish people Eid Mubarak, or Blessed Eid. Many people take this opportunity to travel, so expect the airport to be extremely busy! m ©

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Sports

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Sports in Qatar

Sports

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Qatar’s Best BLOG!

An overview of the local sports scene, including Qatar’s Sports Federations marhaba.qa and Olympic Committee

Events Calendar Details of upcoming sporting competitions

Feature – Kids Clubs Never hear the words ‘I’m bored!’ again with our recommendations of sports clubs and activities for children and teenagers.

229 Feature – Samsung Diamond LeagueThe world’s best athletes meet up in Doha again for the start of the Samsung Diamond League.

230

Sports Activities A full listing of clubs, societies and activities for adults and children, from Badminton to Watersports

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Sports in Qatar

Sports in Qatar

Sport is an « ÀÌ> ÌÊ«>ÀÌÊ vÊ iÛiÀÞ`>ÞÊ viÊ Ê +>Ì>ÀÊ> `Ê ÃÌÊ Ã« ÀÌ }ÊÛi ÕiÃÊ>ÀiÊ «i ÊÌ ÊÌ iÊ«ÕL VÊÌ Ê i V ÕÀ>}iÊ>Ê i> Ì ÞÊ viÃÌÞ iÊÌ À Õ} Ê Ài}Õ >ÀÊiÝiÀV Ãi°Ê International sporting events held to date: UÊ Ê Ã > Ê Õ«Ê­Óä£ä®Ê UÊ £ÓÌ Ê*> Ê À>LÊ > iÃÊ­Ó䣣®Ê UÊ Ê7 À `Ê-Ü }Ê > « à «ÃÊ­Óx ®ÊÊÊ ­Óä£{®Ê U i ½ÃÊ > `L> Ê7 À `Ê > « à «Ê­Óä£x®Ê UÊ Óä£xÊ Ê7 À `Ê Ý }Ê > « à «ÃÊ­Óä£x® Coming up: UÊ 1 Ê, >`Ê7 À `Ê > « à «ÃÊ­Óä£È®Ê UÊ Ê ÀÌ ÃÌ VÊ7 À `Ê Þ >ÃÌ VÃÊ > « à «ÃÊ ­Óä£n®Ê UÊ Óä£ Ê Ê7 À `Ê > « à «ÃÊ UÊ ÓäÓÓÊ Ê7 À `Ê Õ«/ UÊ ÓäÓÎÊ Ê7 À `Ê > « à «Ã Annual international events: UÊ iÀV > Ê > Ê À> `Ê*À ÝÊ vÊ+>Ì>ÀÊ­ Ì *® U iÀV > Ê > Ê+>Ì>ÀÊ >ÃÌiÀà ­} v® UÊ } iÃÊ L> Ê > « ÃÊ/ ÕÀÊ­iµÕiÃÌÀ > ® UÊ Ê > `Ê i>}Õi ­>Ì iÌ VÃ®Ê UÊ Ê > `L> Ê-Õ«iÀÊ LiÊ UÊ +>Ì>ÀÊ >Ãà VÊ-µÕ>à Ê/ ÕÀ > i Ì UÊ +>Ì>ÀÊ ÝÝ L Ê"«i ­ /*ÊÌi Ã®Ê UÊ +>Ì>ÀÊ >` iÃÊ"«i ­7/ ÊÌi î UÊ +>Ì>ÀÊ/>L iÊ/i ÃÊ"«i Ê UÊ -> ÊÌ iÊ Õ vÊ,i}>ÌÌ> UÊ / ÕÀÊ vÊ+>Ì>À ­ i ÃÊ> `ÊÜ i ¿ÃÊVÞV }®Ê

UÊ Athletics UÊ >Ã iÌL> UÊ >À`ÃÊ> `Ê- iÀ UÊ Ü } UÊ Ý } UÊ iÃÃ UÊ ÞV } UÊ µÕiÃÌÀ > UÊ i V } UÊÊ ÌL> U Golf UÊ Þ >ÃÌ VÃÊ UÊ > `L> UÊ >À>ÌiÊÊ UÊ Ì ÀÊ> `Ê Ì ÀVÞV iÊ

220

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UÊ *>À> Þ « Và UÊ ,Õ}LÞ UÊ -> }Ê> `Ê >À iÊ-« ÀÌ UÊ - Ì }Ê> `Ê ÀV iÀÞ UÊ -« ÀÌÃÊv ÀÊ UÊ -« ÀÌÃÊv ÀÊ7 i UÊ -µÕ>à UÊ -Ü } UÊ />L iÊ/i à UÊ />i Ü ` Ê> `Ê Õ` UÊ /i à UÊ 6 iÞL> UÊ 7i } Ì vÌ }Ê UÊ 7ÀiÃÌ }

Aspire Academy for Sports ExcellenceÊ«À Û `iÃÊ >«« i`Êë ÀÌÃÊÃV i ViÊÃÕ«« ÀÌÊÌ ÊV >V iÃÊ> `Ê ÃÌÕ`i Ì >Ì iÌiÃ]Ê> `Ê ÃÌÃÊ ÌiÀ >Ì > Êë ÀÌÃÊ Ìi> ÃÊÕà }ÊÌ iÊiÝÌi à ÛiÊÌÀ> }Êv>V Ì iÃ°Ê 4413 6570, aspire.qa AspetarÊ ÃÊÌ iÊv ÀÃÌÊëiV > Ãi`Ê ÀÌ «>i` VÊ> `Ê Ã« ÀÌÃÊ i` V iÊ Ã« Ì> Ê ÊÌ iÊ Õ vÊÀi} ]Ê vviÀ }ÊÌÀi>Ì i ÌÊv ÀÊë ÀÌà Ài >Ìi`Ê ÕÀ iÃ°Ê 4413 2000, aspetar.com Other sports venues include: UÊÊ >Ê vÊ ÕLÊ UÊÊ > v>Ê ÌiÀ >Ì > Ê/i ÃÊEÊ-µÕ>Ã Ê « iÝÊ UÊÊ Ã> Ê ÌiÀ >Ì > Ê,>V }Ê ÀVÕ Ì UÊÊ ÕÃ> Ê" Þ « VÊ- Ì }Ê,> }i UÊÊ+>Ì>ÀÊ,>V }ÊEÊ µÕiÃÌÀ > Ê ÕL UÊ7iÃÌÊ `Ê*>À Ê-Ì>` Õ

Qatar Olympic Committee +>Ì>ÀÊ" Þ « VÊ ÌÌiiÊ­+" ®ÊÜ>ÃÊiÃÌ>L à i`Ê Ê £ Ç ÊÌ Ê ÛiÀÃiiÊë ÀÌÃÊiÛi ÌÃÊ> `ÊÃÕLÃiµÕi Ì ÞÊ LiV> iÊ i LiÀÃÊ vÊÌ iÊ ÌiÀ >Ì > Ê" Þ « VÊ

ÌÌii]ÊÌ iÊ" Þ « VÊ Õ V Ê vÊ Ã >]Ê> `ÊÌ iÊ À>LÊ-« ÀÌÃÊ > iÃÊ i`iÀ>Ì °Ê - i Ê >> ÊL Ê > >`Ê Ê/ > Ê >ÃÊLii Ê i iVÌi`Ê*Àià `i ÌÊ vÊÌ iÊ+" ÊÕ Ì ÊÌ iÊi `Ê vÊ Óä£È]ÊÀi« >V }ÊÌ iÊ À]Ê Ê- i Ê/> ÊL Ê > >`Ê Ê/ > °Ê/ iÊ iÜÊ-iVÀiÌ>ÀÞÊ i iÀ> Ê ÃÊ / > Ê L`Õ À> > Ê Ê ÕÜ>À ]ÊÀi« >V }Ê- i Ê -> Õ`ÊL Ê L`Õ Ê,> > Ê Ê/ > ° +" ÊÀÕ ÃÊÌ iÊ¿-« ÀÌÊv ÀÊ vi¿ÊV> «> } ÊÌ Êi }>}iÊ Àià `i ÌÃÊ Ê ii« }Êv ÌÊ> `Ê i> Ì Þ]Ê> `ÊÌ iÊ -V ÃÊ" Þ « VÊ*À }À> i]Ê> Ê> Õ> ÊiÛi ÌÊv ÀÊ ÃV V `Ài °Êolympic.qa, schoolsolympic.com

Get involved ÊÛ>ÃÌÊÀ> }iÊ vÊë ÀÌ }Ê>VÌ Û Ì iÃÊ ÃÊ Ê vviÀÊ Ê Qatar – see Sports ActivitiesÊv ÀÊvÕ Ê`iÌ> ÃÊ vÊ V >ÃÃiÃÊ> `ÊV ÕLðÊ/ iÊSports Calendar has an ÛiÀÛ iÜÊ vÊiÛi ÌÃÊÌ> }Ê« >ViÊ ÊÌ iÊV }Ê Ì ÃÊqÊ> `Ê` ¿ÌÊv À}iÌÊÌ Ê ii«ÊÕ«ÊÌ Ê`>ÌiÊÜ Ì Ê iÜÃÊ> `ÊiÛi ÌÃÊ>ÌÊmarhaba.qa m

Checked & Updated February 2016

Sports Federations and Associations

Sports Venues Aspire Zone C5 -« ÀÌÃ]Êë ÀÌÃÊ i` V i]ÊÀiÃi>ÀV Ê > `Êi`ÕV>Ì Ê>ÌÊ Ã« ÀiÊ i]Ê Ã« ÀiÊ*>À ]Ê > >`Ê µÕ>Ì VÊ i ÌÀi]Ê > v>Ê-Ì>` Õ ]Ê> `ÊÌ iÊ >` iÿÊ-« ÀÌÃÊ > °Ê ë ÀiÊ VÌ ÛiÊ vviÀÃÊv Ì iÃÃÊ «À }À> iÃÊÌ Ê> °Ê4413 6219, aspire.qa

MARHABA

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Education Useful Numbers

247

Education in Qatar

295

• Nurseries and Preschools • Primary and Secondary Schools • Specialised Schools • Special Needs Education • Universities and Colleges of Higher Education • Academic Organisations and Learning Centres

• Nurseries and Kindergartens • Primary and Secondary Education • The Public Sector: The Supreme Education Council; Independent Schools; eEducation and eLiteracy; Education for All; Increasing the Choice of Schools; The Outstanding Schools Initiative • The Private Sector: Nurseries and Kindergartens; Preschools Attached to Schools; Primary and Secondary Schools • Special Needs Education • Specialised Curriculum Schools • Tertiary Education • The State Sector: Qatar University • The Private Sector: Qatar Foundation; University Campuses in Qatar Foundation • University Campuses in Doha

Education

241

Feature – Hamad bin Khalifa University Creating a higher education institution that is globally minded and promotes research excellence.

297

Map of Education City

302

Education Courses/Lectures

304

Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses

• Language Courses • Community Classes and Extra-mural Courses • Lectures/Discussions/Workshops

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Nurseries and Kindergartens

UÊ The law defines nursery schools as a place designated for the care of children below four years of age. These include the nurseries run by public or private schools. According to Law No 1 of 2014, employees at nurseries are strictly limited to women. Nurseries should be managed by a qualified female director, who will be responsible for all work at the place. She will be aided by a female general supervisor, a female assistant supervisor, a dietician, a nurse, and a female physician, who can be a visiting specialist in paediatrics or general medicine.

Education in Qatar

In January 2014, details of Qatar’s long-awaited new nursery law were released after the legislation received final approval from HH the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Law No 1 of 2014 – which passed through the Cabinet in October 2015 – has been in the works for years.

UÊ In addition, there should be an adequate number of guards, cleaners, drivers, and other necessary staff. Visiting doctors, as well as other employees who do not come into direct contact with the children, may be men. UÊ All nursery staff should be physically fit, free of any communicable disease, enjoy a good reputation with no criminal history, and possess adequate qualifications and expertise. UÊ Nurseries should also keep regular and updated records. According to the law, a prior licence has to be obtained from the department concerned at the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs to establish, manage or modify an existing nursery. UÊ The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs will classify nurseries based on the qualifications of its staff and the fees. Nurseries are expected to provide comprehensive care to children and ensure the appropriate conditions to develop their skills in all fields. UÊ With the implementation of this recent law, nurseries have become more regulated and safer for children. So when you decide to enrol your child in a nursery ensure the school meets all the criteria outlined. See The Private Sector further along in this section for more information on Nurseries and Kindergartens.

For more detailed information on education in Qatar visit the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (formerly the Supreme Education Council) website at edu.gov.qa. For a list of nurseries see Useful Numbers and the adverts in this section.

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3/7/16 3:09 PM

Health & Beauty Useful Numbers

Map of Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City

313

Healthcare in Qatar

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Feature – Cancer Screening Initiatives )52 #.A6<;.9 .;02? %?<4?.: <332?@ 06A6G2;@ .;1 ?2@612;A@ A52 <==<?AB;6AF A< 5.C2 A2@A6;4 3<? AD< :.7<? 16@2.@2@ I /?2.@A .;1 /<D29 0.;02?

Health and Wellness

Spas & Beauty Centres

Health & Beauty

310

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307

Useful Numbers EMERGENCIES – AMBULANCE, FIRE OR POLICE – 999 The use of medical facilities in Qatar is available to citizens, residents and visitors. Visitors need to pay for treatment at government hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres; residents holding a valid Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Health Card pay a nominal fee of QAR100 for medical assistance. More information about health services can be found online: Hamad Medical Corporation hamad.qa; Supreme Council of Health sch.gov.qa; Primary Health Care Corporation phcc.qa

Health & Beauty

HMC Hospitals Al Khor Hospital Al Maha Children's Unit (Rumailah) C3 Al Wakra Hospital (7 am – 3 pm) Dental Clinic (Rumailah Hospital) C3 Hamad General Hospital (HGH) C3 Heart Hospital C3 National Center for Cancer Care and Research C3 Rumailah Hospital C3 (7 am – 3 pm) The Cuban Hospital Women’s Hospital C3

Private Medical Centres 4474 4439 4011 4439 4439 4439 4439

5555 7300 4422 3085 4444 5838 7800

4439 3333 4015 7777 4439 6666

6674 4467 4459 4406

Primary Healthcare Centres

310

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M65 USEFUL NUMBERS .indd 1

8888 4400 6009 1999 2000

4438 4463 4466 4444 4419

4333 1864 2260 0606 0888

0951 9111 3333 4222

Al Ahmadani Dental Clinic D4 Al Jaber Opticians (Ezdan Mall) A3 Al Jabor Vision Technology D4 British International Dental Centre C3 Dar Optics (Airport Street) D4 Dr Eric Dental Clinic C4 Dr Sarah’s Specialist Dental Centre E2 Dr Tamim Dental Polyclinic D2 German Dental Centre D3 Qatar Optics (City Center-Doha) B3 Queen Dental Clinic (City Center-Doha) B3

4465 4471 4442 4411 4464 4447 4460 4450 4441 4483 4493

5397 3019 7152 7755 2763 9817 6058 2929 1711 3349 2888

4436 4443 4438 4018 4469 4464 4481 4462

6610 4100 0114 2036 9394 0552 1896 2334

Pharmacies (24 hour) Al Bateel, Salwa Road D3 Family, Al Asmakh Street D3 Ibn Al Haytham, Doha Clinic Hosp D3 IMC Pharmacy, HIA (departures) D5 Kulud, Mesaimeer E3 Meeqat, near Al Wakra Health Centre Mina Al Nayef p/stn, Al Rayyan C1 Wellcare Pharmacy, Airport Street D4

Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous 5560 5901 (males) aaqatar.org 5505 9489 (females) Al Anon (for friends/family of alcoholics) 5507 1842 Doha Mums (breastfeeding, depression, dohamums.com fertility, food allergies and special needs) Qatar Cancer Society 4447 8128 qatarcancersociety.org Qatar Diabetes Association 4454 7341 qda.org.qa

Checked & Updated February 2016

For all healthcare centres call 107 North Region: Al Daayen Al Gharrafa Al Ghuwairiya Al Kabaan Al Khor Al Shamal Madinat Khalifa C2 Umm Slal Central Region: Airport E4 Al Wakra Muntazah D3 Omar Ibn Al Khattab C2 Umm Ghuwailina D4 West Bay B3 Western Region: Abu Bakr Al Siddiq E1 Abu Nakhla Al Jemailiya Al Karaana Al Rayyan Al Shaihaniya Mesaimeer (Abu Hamour) E3

4489 4435 4466 4442 4413

Dental & Optical Centres

Ministry of Public Health Communicable Diseases Hotline (SCH) Medical Commission E3 Primary Health Care Corporation D3 Vaccinations (Mesaimeer HC) E2

Al Ahli Hospital C3 Al Ahmadani Clinic D4 Al Emadi Hospital D3/4 American Hospital D3 Aspetar Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Hospital D2 Doha Clinic Hospital D3 KIMS Qatar Medical Center, Al Wakra Plastic Surgicentre D4 Qatar Medical Center D3 Queen Medical Center (Villaggio) D2

MARHABA

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Banking & Commerce Banking and Finance

349

Economy

351

Feature – Developing Local Talent

353

Commerce Useful Numbers

354

Investment and Trade

• • • • •

Currency • Useful Numbers: Banks and Exchange Houses The Banking Network in Qatar • The Banking Sector; Changes to Regulations Qatar Central Bank • Qatar Credit Bureau Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates • Accounts • Offshore Banking Financial Services and Insurance • Islamic Banking

• Economic Growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) • Trade surplus • The Budget • Inflation and cost of living • Population and the labour force

The Bedaya Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Development offers young people the chance to gain new skills and make a success of their business.

• • • • • •

Incentives • Investment Regulations • Choosing a Business Structure Company Structures • Commercial Registration Import and Export • Taxation • Intellectual Property Business Etiquette • Regulatory Bodies and Government-owned Entities Qatar Financial Centre • Qatar Exchange Real Estate • Developers and Real Estate Agents Selling Property

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Currency The unit of currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), divided into 100 Dirhams (Dh), issued by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). It is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of USD1 = QAR3.64. Ratings agency Fitch have stated that despite Gulf countries' currency pegs to the dollar being under pressure from low oil prices and a stronger dollar, there will be no change in the future.

Banking and Finance

Notes in circulation are QAR1, QAR5, QAR10, QAR50, QAR100 and QAR500; coins are Dh5, Dh10, Dh25 and Dh50. Banknotes incorporate security threads, as well as special features for recognition by the blind and visually impaired. qcb.gov.qa Four GCC countries support the creation of a Gulf Monetary Union (GMU) – Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain; the UAE and Oman have withdrawn entry. The GCC Supreme Council in 2008 approved the Monetary Union Agreement and the Statute of the Monetary Council. The headquarters of the Gulf Monetary Council opened in Riyadh in October 2013. Monetary union between the GCC countries was proposed at a summit held in Kuwait in December 2013, an idea that seems closer to being realised after Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar agreed to establish a unified central bank that will issue a unified currency. The proposed currency will be pegged to the US dollar.

The Banking Sector The Qatari banking sector comprises 20 regional and foreign banks: 13 local banks, six of which are Islamic institutions, and seven international banks. The government-owned Qatar Development Bank provides financing to small and medium scale enterprises. QInvest has streamlined operations and focuses on investment banking, asset management and investing its own capital. In September 2015 it was reported that 10 GCC banks had applied to Qatar Central Bank (QCB) for a licence to open branches in Qatar. Some banks have applied to operate within the Qatar Financial Centre. Licences will be given on the proviso that the new banks introduce innovative and non-conventional products and services. The decision to open the market to GCC banks is part of a region-wide policy to bolster regional economic cooperation, and has seen Qatari banks applying to set up in other GCC states. The retail banking sector in Qatar witnessed an increase of 12.5% in 2014, the largest within the GCC, according to the Boston Consulting Group. The corporate sector also saw significant growth. Banking assets grew 10.5% in 2014 on double-digit private sector lending growth, offsetting the decline in public sector borrowing; 344

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M65 BANKING AND FINANCE.indd 2

deposits grew 9.6% on strong population growth and higher non-hydrocarbon GDP, according to Qatar National Bank's Qatar Economic Insight 2015. Bank lending is projected to grow by 9% in 2015, 10% in 2016 and 11% in 2017, increasingly driven by project lending and the expanding population. It is envisaged that all Qatari banks will be able to meet Basel III demands, with QCB sending regular circulars to banks on updated capital rules.

Changes to regulations QCB, QFC Regulatory Authority (QFCRA) and Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) jointly launched in December 2013 a strategic plan for the future of financial sector regulation in Qatar. The plan establishes a framework for regulating the financial sector across the State, setting out a roadmap of strategic priorities for the following three years (2014–2016). The strategic plan is a comprehensive document with six goals, each supported by specific strategies and work plans within the QCB, QFCRA and QFMA. Also in December, QCB established the Qatar Central Securities Depository (QCSD) company. The company will regulate all activities carried out by the central registration department of Qatar Exchange.

MARHABA

3/5/16 10:28 AM

Motoring

Feature – WOQODe

363 364 366 367

Cars Tested This Issue

Motoring

360

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Main Car Showrooms Useful Numbers Motoring Essentials R (6H5=B=B; 5 *5H5F= F=J=B; %=79B79 R -<9 F=J=B; -9GH R %=79B79G )9FA=HG R %=79B79 +9B9K5@G /9<=7@9 +9;=GHF5H=CBG 5B8 =B9G R &9HF5G< Q ,&, ,9FJ=79 R F=J=B; CB *5H5F G +C58G R -F5:P7 77=89BHG R -F5:P7 /=C@5H=CBG R 095H<9F CB8=H=CBG R )9HFC@ ,H5H=CBG 5B8 CH<9F G9FJ=79G

371 Traffic Violations: Points System 384 Feature – Operation Desert 898=75H98 "B@5B8 ,95 5DD K5G F979BH@M @5IB7<98 6M (CF98CC 5=A98 5H <9@D=B; D9CD@9 B5J=;5H9 H<FCI;< H<9 89G9FH 8IB9G

387 Main Dealer Service Centres Map of Industrial Areas, Small Industries Zone 388 The locations of major service centres and the Small Industries Zone

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A Closer Look at…

Six special cars featured in this issue 372

374

376

378

380

382

Honda Civic T RS

Nissan Maxima SR

Audi A6 TFSI

Volvo XC90 AWD

Chevrolet Silverado

VW Golt GTI Clubsport

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Motoring Essentials

www.woqod.com.qa

If you wish to buy a new car, browse our listings of new car dealers at the beginning of this section. In Useful Numbers in this section you can also find contact numbers both for pre-owned/used cars and rental/leasing. Vehicle finance loans are offered by most of the local banks (see Banking and Finance in the Banking and Commerce section).

Stranded in the desert? Dial 999 Obtaining a Qatari driving licence

> ÞÊ >Ì > Ê`À Û }Ê Vi ViÃÊ>ÀiÊÀiV } Ãi`Ê>ÃÊ Û> `ÊLÞÊ+>Ì>ÀÊ> `ÊÞ ÕÊ ii`Ê ÞÊÌ> iÊ> ÊiÞiÊÌiÃÌÊ Liv ÀiÊÞ ÕÊ>ÀiÊ ÃÃÕi`ÊÜ Ì Ê>ÊÛ> `Ê+>Ì>À Ê Vi ViÊ and you are set to go. In an effort to reduce traffic congestion, certain professions will preclude you from gaining a Vi Vi°Ê ÜiÛiÀ]Ê vÊÞ ÕÊ >ÛiÊÌ iÊ«iÀà > Ê sponsorship of a Qatari national, or your spouse, then your profession is not important. / iÊ« ViÊ >ÛiÊ vv ViÃÊ Ê> ÊÌ iÊ`À Û }ÊÃV ÃÊ > `ÊÞ ÕÊV> ÊiÛi ÊÌ> iÊÞ ÕÀÊiÞiÊÌiÃÌÊÌ iÀi° 9 ÕÊ>ÀiÊ> Üi`ÊÌ Ê`À ÛiÊÜ Ì ÊÞ ÕÀÊ >Ì > Ê`À Û }Ê licence (if it is recognised by the State of Qatar) v ÀÊ iÊÜii ]Ê ÀÊ> ÌiÀ >Ì Ûi ÞÊÞ ÕÊ >ÞÊÕÃiÊ> Ê ÌiÀ >Ì > Ê`À Û }Ê Vi ViÊv ÀÊÕ«ÊÌ Êà ÝÊ Ì Ã]Ê >vÌiÀÊÜ V Ê ÌÊ ÃÊV «Õ à ÀÞÊÌ Ê >ÛiÊ>ÊÛ> `Ê+>Ì>À Ê Vi Vi°Ê/ ÊÕÃiÊ> Ê ÌiÀ >Ì > Ê`À Û }Ê«iÀ ÌÊ issued by your country of origin, you must also `Ê>ÊÛ> `Ê`À Û }Ê Vi ViÊÌ >ÌÊ ÃÊÀiV } Ãi`ÊLÞÊ the State of Qatar. vÊÞ ÕÀÊ¿ i¿Ê Vi ViÊ ÃÊ ÌÊV à `iÀi`ÊÛ> `ÊLÞÊ Ì iÊ>ÕÌ À Ì iÃÊÞ ÕÊÜ Ê >ÛiÊÌ ÊÌ> iÊ>Ê`À Û }ÊÌiÃÌ° For those applying v ÀÊ>Ê`À Û }Ê Vi ViÊv ÀÊÌ iÊv ÀÃÌÊ time, as well as Ì ÃiÊÜ Ê >ÛiÊÌ ÊÌ> iÊ>ÊÌiÃÌ\ UÊ/ iÊ Õ Ê>}iÊv ÀÊ i>À }ÊÌ Ê`À ÛiÊ Ê+>Ì>ÀÊÊ is 18. UÊ9 ÕÊÜ Ê ii`\Êv ÛiÊ«>Ãë ÀÌ Ã âiÊ« Ì ÃÊ­Ü Ì Ê >ÊÜ ÌiÊL>V }À Õ `®]ÊÞ ÕÀÊ+>Ì>À Ê Ê> `Ê>ÊV «ÞÊ vÊÞ ÕÀÊë à ÀÊV «> ÞÊ ]Ê« ÕÃÊ>Ê iÌÌiÀÊ vÊ «iÀ Ãà ÊvÀ ÊÞ ÕÀÊë à À°Ê/ ÃÊ V Õ`iÃÊ female applicants sponsored by their husbands, > `Ê i Êë à Ài`ÊLÞÊÌ i ÀÊÜ ÛiðÊ* i>ÃiÊV iV Ê VÕÀÀi ÌÊÀiµÕ Ài i ÌÃÊÕ« Ê>«« V>Ì ° UÊ « iÌiÊ> Ê>«« V>Ì Êv À Ê>ÌÊ>Ê`À Û }ÊÃV Ê (see contact details in Useful Numbers at the beginning of this section). UÊ vÊÞ ÕÊ>ÀiÊ i>À }ÊÌ Ê`À ÛiÊv ÀÊÌ iÊv ÀÃÌÊÌ i] i À }Êv ÀÊ>ÊvÕ Ê`À Û }ÊV ÕÀÃiÊÜ ÊV ÃÌÊ ÊÌ iÊ region of + ,Î]Îxä°Ê/ iÃiÊV ÕÀÃiÃÊ V Õ`iÊ{äÊ ÕÀÃÊ vÊ`À Û }Ê iÃà ÃÊ> `Êà ÝÊ vÊÌ i ÀÞ°

UÊ/ iÀiÊ>ÀiÊÃi«>À>ÌiÊV ÕÀÃiÃÊv ÀÊ i>ÛÞÊ`ÕÌÞÊ Ûi V iÃ]Ê> `Êv ÀÊ Ì ÀVÞV ið UÊ/ iÀiÊ ÃÊ>ÊV >À}iÊ vÊQAR50 per test. UÊ9 ÕÊV> Ê ÀiÊ iÊ vÊÌ iÊ`À Û }ÊÃV ½ÃÊV>ÀÃÊv ÀÊ + ,£xäÊÌ ÊÌ> iÊÌ iÊ`À Û }ÊÌiÃÌ°Ê vÊÞ ÕÊ>ÀiÊÌ> }Ê lessons, the test is included in the price. UÊ Vi ViÃÊ>ÀiÊv ÀÊ > Õ> Ê ÀÊ>ÕÌ >Ì VÊV>ÀÃ°Ê vÊÞ ÕÊ `Ê>Ê > Õ> Ê Vi ViÊÞ ÕÊ >ÞÊ`À ÛiÊ> Ê Qatar’s Best BLOG! >ÕÌ >Ì V]ÊLÕÌÊ ÌÊÛ ViÊÛiÀÃ>°

marhaba.qa The driving test / Ê}iÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ`À Û }Ê Vi Vi]ÊÞ ÕÊÜ Ê >ÛiÊÌ Ê«>ÃÃÊ the following tests: Theory test\Ê/ iÊÌiÃÌÊ ÃÊÌ> i Ê` } Ì> ÞÊ> `Ê applicants need to score at least 18 out of 20. / iÊÌiÃÌÊV «À ÃiÃÊÓäÊ Õ Ì « i V ViʵÕiÃÌ Ã]Ê many of which deal with traffic laws. L parking: / iÊv ÀÃÌÊÌiÃÌÊÞ ÕÊ` Ê ÊÌ iÊÞ>À`°Ê iÀiÊ you'll make a right turn up the slope. Box or perpendicular parking: / iÊL ÝÊ«>À }Ê is the second test done in the yard. It's akin to parking in a regular parking lot. Road test: If you pass your oral and parking tests, Þ ÕÀÊiÝ> iÀÊÜ ÊÌ> iÊÞ ÕÊ ÕÌÊ vÊÌ iÊÌiÃÌ }Ê }À Õ `ÃÊ ÊÌ ÊÌ iÊÀ >`ÊÌ ÊÌiÃÌÊÞ ÕÀÊ«À v V i VÞ°Ê9 ÕÊ >ÞÊ> à ÊLiÊ>à i`ÊÌ Ê` Ê>Ê ÃÌ>ÀÌÊLiv ÀiÊ i>Û }Ê the grounds. " ViÊÞ ÕÊ >ÛiÊ«>ÃÃi`ÊÞ ÕÀÊ`À Û }ÊÌiÃÌ]ÊÞ ÕÀÊ`À Û }Ê Vi ViÊÜ ÊLiÊ ÃÃÕi`ÊÜ iÊÞ ÕÊÜ> Ì°Ê/ iÊ Vi ViÊ Ü ÊV ÃÌÊÞ ÕÊ+ ,ÓxäÊ> `Ê ÃÊÛ> `Êv ÀÊv ÛiÊÞi>Àð * i>ÃiÊ ÌiÊÌ >ÌÊ> ÊÌÀ> Ã>VÌ ÃÊ>ÌÊÌ iÊ/À>vv VÊ

i«>ÀÌ i ÌÊ ÕÃÌÊLiÊ«> `Êv ÀÊÕà }Êi Ì iÀÊ>ÊVÀi` ÌÊ or debit card, or by using the Ministry of Interior i - ÊV>À`Ê­ÃiiÊLiving in QatarÊ ÊÌ iÊ ÃV ÛiÀ }Ê +>Ì>ÀÊÃiVÌ Êv ÀÊ v À >Ì ÊÀi}>À` }Êi - Ê V>À`î°Ê ÀiÊ ÊÌ iÊ iÜÊ`À Û }ÊVÕÀÀ VÕ Õ Ê>ÌÊÌ iÊ end of this section.

Licences/Permits A temporary Qatari licence «« ÞÊ Ê«iÀÃ Ê>ÌÊÌ iÊ/À>vv VÊ* ViÊ vv ViÊ Ê iÊ vÊ Ì iÊ`À Û }ÊÃV ÃÊÜ Ì ÊÃiÛi Ê`>ÞÃÊ vÊÞ ÕÀÊ>ÀÀ Û> Ê Ê+>Ì>À°Ê9 ÕÊÜ Ê ii`Ê« Ì V « iÃÊ vÊÞ ÕÀÊÛ> `Ê ©

MOTORING ESSENTIALS M65.indd 1

Motoring Essentials

/ ÃiÊÜ Ã }ÊÌ Ê`À ÛiÊ Ê+>Ì>ÀÊÜ Ê ii`Ê>Ê+>Ì>À Ê `À Û }Ê Vi Vi°Ê/ iÊ«À Vi`ÕÀiÊ ÜÊ ÃÊà « iÀÊÌ > Ê Liv ÀiÆÊ} ÊÌ Ê iÊ vÊÌ iÊÀi} ÃÌiÀi`Ê`À Û }ÊÃV ÃÊ Ê >Ê> `ÊÌ iÀiÊÞ ÕÊV> ÊV « iÌiÊ> ÊÌ iÊ «>«iÀÜ À Ê> `ÊÀiVi ÛiÊ ÃÌÀÕVÌ ]Ê vÊ iViÃÃ>ÀÞ]Ê Ê the same place.

UÊ À ÛiÀÃÊÜ Ê >ÛiÊ Vi ViÃÊÜ V ÊV> ÌÊLiÊ directly changed to a Qatari licence can choose from a 'half course' (25 hours, QAR2,800) or a 'short course' (12 hours, QAR1,950).

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Oil, Gas & Petrochemical Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals

397

Qatar’s Oil Industry

399

Qatar’s Gas Industry

401

Qatar’s Petrochemical Industry

404

Company Activities

419

Oil, Gas & Petrochemical

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The Global Perspective

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An over view by Marhaba Oil and Gas correspondent Gina Coleman, using published information compiled from media sources (Februar y 2016)

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MARHABA

M65 SPRING/SUMMER 2016

Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals

The Global Perspective News from the hydrocarbons industry and its analysts has been like a yo-yo over the past few months, as drastic investment cuts and job losses alternated with optimistic predictions and announcements of new ventures or expansion. Australian oil and gas firm, Woodside, said it was bracing for oil prices of USD35 per barrel until 2018 as company’s profits fell 99% to a 2015 full-year net profit of USD26 million, down as oil prices tumbled. BP announced substantial job cuts in 2015/16, and both Shell and BP reported dramatically lower profits for 2015 – yet both say they expect prices to recover slightly in the H2 2016 as demand rises. They expect a 2017 price of USD60 while oil trader Vitol sees prices of USD40 to USD50 a barrel. It seems inevitable that during 2016, more shale producers will either cut back or go out of business in response to lower prices, which could lead to a fall in supply of up to 10%. Industry Body Oil and Gas UK said that less than GBP1 billion was expected to be spent on new oil and gas projects this year, compared to a typical GBP8 billion per year in the last five years. It warned that if oil remains at about USD30 for the rest of 2016, over 40% of all UK Continental Shelf oil fields were likely to be operating at a loss. The number of fields expected to cease production between 2015 and 2020 has risen by 20% to more than 100. Taking advantage of low prices, US crude oil and gasoline inventories rose to new record highs. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), crude oil inventories rose 2.1 million barrels in the week to February 12th, whilst US crude imports rose by 795,000 barrels per day (bpd) and refinery utilisation rates rose by 2.2 percentage points to 88.3% of capacity.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) is warning consumers not to let cheap oil lull them into a false www.woqod.com.qa sense of security amid forecasts of a price spike by 2021. In a February report, the IEA said it expects prices to start recovering in 2017. The forecast for oil demand to 2021 is for annual average growth of 1.2 million barrels per day (1.2%), which represents a solid outlook in historical terms. Oil demand, they predict, breaks through the 100 million bpd barrier at some point in 2019 or 2020. In an attempt to stabilise the current market the Saudi Arabian, Russian, Qatari and Venezuelan oil ministers met in Doha in February to discuss a possible freeze on oil production at January 2016 levels – contingent on co-operation from other producers. They were to meet again in March. Saudi Qatar’s Best BLOG! Arabia has ruled out any actual production cuts while marhaba.qa the UAE’s energy minister, Suhail Al Mazrouei, said it would support any initiative to restrain output. The Doha meeting came after more than 18 months of declining oil prices which sent crude below USD30 a barrel for the first time in over a decade. In later discussions, Iraq’s oil minister stopped short of actual commitment to a freeze, but left the door open for Iraq’s co-operation to shore up prices. Iran has pledged to raise production capacity as it looks to regain market share lost after years of international sanctions, which were lifted in January, but gave the freeze-proposal a warmer reception than many had anticipated; there was speculation that Iran could be offered special concessions. Azerbaijan’s energy minister said no freeze was planned, however predicted production of 40.7 million tonnes of oil this year is a 2.3% decline from 2015. Hydrocarbon exports make up almost 75% of government revenues, making the economy highly dependent on global energy prices. In February, Algeria awarded design contracts for three new refineries; Saudi Aramco invited bids on Ras Tanura expansion, and the government of Oman reached an agreement with BP and Oman Oil to expand an exploration and production sharing agreement of the Khazzan natural gas field to include a second development phase, at an estimated cost of USD16 billion for the entire project. The new development needs final approval from Oman’s government and BP, expected in 2017. The reservoir has ‘tight gas’ and requires techniques including hydraulic fracturing to extract. m

395

Company Activities

February 2016

Marhaba compiles these pages either from updates received directly from companies or from the media. While we endeavour to present an accurate picture of the most recent news, it is not always possible to have information verified. Therefore, we do not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies.

Company Activities

Qatar Petroleum Qatar Petroleum (QP) is a national oil corporation responsible for the sustainable development of Qatar’s oil and gas resources. Its corporate vision is ‘to be a world class oil and gas corporation, with its roots in Qatar, and a strong international presence.’ The principal activities of QP, its subsidiaries and joint ventures are the exploration, production, and local and international sale of crude oil, natural gas and gas liquids, refined products, synthetic fuels, petrochemicals, fuel additives, fertilisers, liquefied natural gas (LNG), steel and aluminium. QP’s operations and activities are conducted at various onshore locations, including Doha, Dukhan, and the Mesaieed and Ras Laffan Industrial Cities, as well as at offshore areas, including Halul Island, offshore production stations, drilling platforms, and the North Field. Pantone 346

Pantone 541

Human capital The Human Capital Directorate has the challenging responsibility of catering to QP’s human capital requirements in an ever-changing competitive environment. It provides quality support services to QP’s operations in the areas of human resources, strategic Qatarisation, as well as learning and development. QP is spearheading the energy and industry sector’s Strategic Qatarization Plan to maximise the employment of Qatari nationals. Health, safety and environment QP is committed to the health and safety of its employees, contractors, visitors and the

local communities, and to the protection and conservation of the natural environment. Oil and gas fields and operation areas: Onshore oil QP produces crude oil, condensate, natural gas liquids, associated gas, and non-associated gas from its onshore fields in Dukhan. Located 84 km west of Doha, Dukhan accommodates oil and gas facilities, housing, medical, recreational and educational institutions, and related services. The first shipment of oil was transported from Dukhan on 31 December 1949 through the Mesaieed port terminal. Offshore oil High-quality crude oil and associated gas are produced from the offshore Maydan Mahzam and Bul Hanine fields, which began production in 1965 and 1972, respectively. Exploration, appraisal and development operations During the last 25 years, QP has signed Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements (EPSA) and Development and Production Sharing Agreements (DPSA) with a number of major international oil and gas companies, including Elf Aquitaine/Total, Anadarko Qatar, Maersk Oil Qatar, Occidental Petroleum Qatar, Qatar Petroleum Development, Talisman Energy Qatar, GDF Suez, China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC) and Qatar Shell. These agreements have boosted Qatar’s oil and gas reserves through new discoveries and the development of existing fields. Some of the fields which were discovered and/or developed through

Qatar Petroleum (QP) held its annual Continuous Service Awards (CSA) Ceremony, during which QP President and CEO Saad Sherida Al Kaabi honoured employees who have served the corporation for the past 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years. Of the employees attending the event, two have achieved a career milestone of 40 years of service with QP. Each attendee was given a Certificate of Appreciation and a gift as a token of gratitude.

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MARHABA

Qatar e-Nature

Qatar e-Nature

Qatar has a surprisingly rich diversity of flora and fauna for such a small country. One such way of finding out more is via the Qatar e-Nature app, an educational mobile application about birds, flora, insects, reptiles and mammals in Qatar. Launched in December 2013, the app was developed by Sasol, the international energy and chemical company, and Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC), supporting the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 to promote sustainable development by contributing towards an environmentally aware population. Available in English and Arabic, the user friendly app includes a number of interactive features aimed at increasing awareness about nature in Qatar, and is aimed at all age groups, with a particular focus on students.

Getting students involved In conjunction with the app and to increase environmental awareness among students, Sasol and the FEC have also held ‘Qatar e-Nature’ contests, open to all students enrolled in schools in Qatar from grades 1 to 13. Participants were invited to find the correct answers to the contest’s questions on mammals, reptiles, birds, plants and insects by browsing through the app content, and could also enter the photo competition showing Qatar nature. The first edition in 2014 saw organisers visiting 162 schools in Qatar. Approximately 5,500 students entered and more than 1,600 photos were received, with the overall winner sent on an educational trip to South Africa.

The database for the application was provided by FEC and includes detailed descriptions, local names and images of flora, birds and insects, as well as sounds of native and migratory birds. Content within Qatar e-Nature was also developed with zoology specialists. High quality photography, vivid descriptions and accurate data provide a simple means of identifying and learning about animals in Qatar. Users can even listen to the sound of bird calls! A 'favourites' section allows users to add a bird, insect or plant for later review. Users can even submit images they've taken out and about, for the app moderators to consider as additions to the existing gallery. ©

QATAR E-NATURE.indd 1

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Index Entries in bold indicate

Banks

advertiser pages 107

2022 FIFA World CupTM

A Academic Health System

323

Index

ACS School

269

Airlines

52

Al Emadi Enterprises

96

Al Farkiya

63

Al Jazeera

86

Al Jabor Vision

331

Al Khalij Commercial Bank Back cover, 342 Al Khor

32

Al Khor Hospital

320

Al Maha Children's Unit

319

ALRIWAQ Doha

68

Al Ruwais

63

Al Seraj Learning Centre

303

Al Shaqab

75

Al Shaqab Hotel

120

Al Sulaiman Rent-A-Car

365

Al Thakhira

63

Al Thani family

14

Al Wakra

32, 64

Al Wakra Hospital

321

Al Zubara

343

Complementary Clinics

336

The Banking Sector

344

Concorde Hotel Doha

114

Currency

344

ConocoPhillips

413

Financial Services and Insurance

347

Islamic Finance

347

Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates

345

Offshore Banking

347

Qatar Central Bank

345

Qatar Credit Bureau

345

Aqua Park

322 72, 84

Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses

304

184

Barzan and Simaisma Parks 73 BBC World Service

86

Beaches

63

Beauty Salons

336

Bedaya

350

Belgravia Centre

238

Berlitz Language Centre

305

Bin Zaid (previously known as Fanar)

66

Bird Watching

70

Birth Certificate

100

Blood Donation

324

Blood Type Certificate

89

British Council

83

Busy Bees Nursery

254

C Calls, International

86

Calls, Local

86

Camel Races

76

Arabic Phrases

29

Carnegie Mellon University

289

Arrivals/Departures

53

Centro Capital

116

Aspire Park

73

Churches

Assaha Lebanese Village

157

Chevrolet (Jaidah)

Audi (Q-Auto)

375

Cinemas City Center-Doha Climate of Qatar

B Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara 129 Banking and Finance 422

Currency

Barwa Village

61

Ambulance Service

Courier Services

343

College of the North Atlantic Qatar

381 79 176, 228 13 298, 299

Commerce

353

Compass Intl School

265

Accounts

346

M65 SPRING/SUMMER 2016 ©

MARHABA

M65 INDEX.indd 1

86

99 146 85, 344

D Darwish Travel

57

Dahl Al Hamam Park

73

Day to Day Qatar

85

Common Courtesies

85

Newspapers

86

Places of Worship

86

Public Wireless Internet

86

Telephone

86

Television and Radio

86

Death

100

Demography of Qatar

16

Desert Safaris

70

DHL Express

10

Dhow Charters

78

Dining Guide Listings Around Town

144 160

Cafes/Lobby Lounges

164

Clubs and Bars

158

Fast Foods

168

Healthy Options; Katara

166

Hotels

144

Souq Waqif

170

The Pearl-Qatar

167

Dining in Qatar

141

Direct Real Estate

95

Documents, Translation

88

Doha British School Doha Bus

276

Bookmark, 60, 64

Doha City Map

36

Doha College

277

Doha Exhibition and Convention Center

108

Doha Festival City

112

Doha's Corniche

73

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