Marhaba information guide issue 63

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It's that time of the year when things start to get lively around town and the weather starts to cools down. People are back from their long summer holiday and festivities gear up for the season. While outdoor activities abound, opt to go watch some of the sporting events to be held at a number of venues across Doha – such as The IPC Athletics World Championships and the AIBA World Boxing Championship Doha 2015 both to be held in October. For the culturally inclined keep updated on marhaba.qa for events held to celebrate the Qatar–Turkey Year of Culture 2015 or take in a performance by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. For a comprehensive list of events peruse our events calendars in the

Cover Image The image, taken by Marhaba team member Andrea Buenafe, is of The Torch–Doha hotel and the Olympics rings sculpture by Ahmed Al Bahrani. To see more of Andrea's photography follow her on Instagram (@buenafotos) and Facebook (facebook.com/buenafotos).

guide or check our online calendar at marhaba.qa. As we come toward the end of 2015, we're expanding on our current list of offerings with the launch of Dining Qatar, which offers an extensive list of dining options around town. Do visit diningqatar.com or download the app from your app store to have all the information you need on the go. With fantastic videos and more our online dining guide will be a touchstone for every foodie in the country. You could also invest in a hard copy of our Dining Guide for those days when you prefer to avoid technology! As always, our guide offers you comprehensive information on everything Qatar via continually updated listings and informative features – all conveniently partitioned into sections so you can find what you're looking for with efficiency. To sign off, let me wish you

Follow

online

Eid Mubarak for Eid Al Adha and a wonderful autumn. We will see you again in winter as we gear up for the festive season.

marhaba.qa diningqatar.com

MARHABA PUBLICATIONS Marhaba Information Guide Marhaba Dining Guide Marhaba Shopping Guide Marhaba Pocket Map of Doha Marhaba Kaleidoscope Marhaba Calendars Qatar Image eBooks

WELCOME MESSAGE M63.indd 1

Hilary Bainbridge Managing Editor AVAILABLE AT • Abu Karbal Bookshop • Bakemart • Carrefour (Dar Al Salam, City Center-Doha, Lagoona, Landmark, Villaggio) • Family Food Centre (Airport Street, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street, Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street) • I Spy Bookstore (City Center-Doha) • Jarir Bookstore (Airport Street, Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street) • JG Sandwich Cellar • Lulu Hypermarket (Al Gharrafa, Al Khor, D Ring Road) • Lulu Centre • Lulu Express • Mega Mart (The Centre) • Mega Mart Xpress (Al Messila Petrol Station) • Naaz Stores • Virgin Megastore (Landmark, Villaggio) • WH Smith (Hyatt Plaza, Hamad International Airport, Nuaija) • WOQOD Petrol Stations

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State of

Map prepared by Al Ruwais Madinat Al Shamal

Qatar

Al Mafjar

in cooperation with

CGIS

Khidaj Fort

Al Ghariya

Al Jemail Fort

QATAR

Al Rekayat Fort

Fuwairit

Al Thaghab Fort Ras Eshairiq

Al Zubara Fort Al Zubara Umrair Fort

Jabal Al Jassasiya

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ras Girtas

Lehwaila RL Support Services Area

Lisha

Ain Al Numan

Madinat Al Kaaban Leghwairiya

Ras Laffan Industrial City

77

Rawdat Al Faras

Simsima Umm Birka

141

1

Al Suwaihliya

Al Thakhira

amal Al Sh

Berak Al Soudan

Road

Al Qaaiya Lijmailiya

Ras Abrouq

Al Khor

Al Khor Airfield

14 Umm Qarn

Al Daayen Municipality

Al Nafayid

Simaisma

Umm Al Amad Al Dosari Game Reserve

Bir Zekreet

Dukhan

Umm Slal Ali

Al Otouriya

Sheikh Faisal Farm & Museum

Ain Al Zaghain

33 New Relief Road

Umm Bab

IKEA

New Relief Road

Al Shaihaniya Al Salamiya

Al Ruwaidat

1A

Barzan Tower

Al Nasraniya

Al Sabbana Dukhan

1

Umm Slal Mohammed

Dukhan R oad

3

Losail Circuit

Lusail City The Pearl Qatar

Education City

Doha

Al Wajba

Banana Island

Al Rayyan

Hamad International Airport

Al Sailiya Rawdat Rashed

Al Shabhana

Barwa Barwa Industrial City Village Area Aqua Park

Earth Satellite 'Singing Sand Dunes’ Station

5

Taas Al Karaana

Al Karaana

Qawz Al Kharaej

ar Kh Al

Taas Al Darb

Al Kharrara

55

Naqa Abu Birka

ra r

Naqa Umm Salama

Zubarat Al Masszhabiya Bu Samra

Naqa Tuwair Al Hameer Zubarat Al Eraiq

Naqa Zuwayyid

Qeezan Al Eraiq

SAUDI ARABIA

M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

Sawda Natheel

MARHABA

dR

Shalla Naqa Abu Dulou Naqa Felaiha

Riyad Al Marrkh

New Port Project

Mesaieed

Umm Hawta Hajar Al Eraiq

7

Naqa Al Minshatah

a Roa d

Qeezan Al Kharaej

Baidaa Al Qaa

Al Wakra

aiee

39

Al Wukair

Mes

oad aR lw Sa

oad

56

Qaryat Al Muhanna

6

Golf Club

Sand Dunes

Khor Al Adaid

Sealine Beach Resort

5 Nonstop Superhighway 39 Upgraded Highway 7 Dual Carriageway Highway Single Carriageway Highway Qatar Heritage Site Population Centre Vegetation


Discovering Qatar Map of Qatar

• • • • •

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

• Arabic Road and Place Names • Qatar’s Landmark Roundabouts • Karwa Taxis • Karwa Limousines

51

Leisure Activities

93

Day to Day Qatar

97

Living in Qatar

Qatar at a Glance

15 Events August – November 24 Do’s and Don’ts 25 Arabic Phrases 26 Qatar Online 29 Foreign Embassies 32 Main Urban Centres 33 Doha City and other maps Around Qatar 43 Getting • Al Wajba – The Last Link in the Chain 49

85

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

104

Utilities and Services

109

Pets

Hamad International Airport

58 Qatar Duty Free and Airport Map 65 Sightseeing

• • • • • • • •

Housing

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

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

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

103

Traveller Information

• • • • • •

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

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

• • • • • • •

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

Discovering Qatar

6 11

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

Features – Splendid Yachting Doha–Dubai Shuttle

20 62

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

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Economy

is being placed on private-sector industrial development, education, health, sport and tourism.

• Qatar, with proved gas reserves of nearly 900 trillion standard cubic feet in its North Field, and oil reserves of over 25.2 billion barrels, has one of the fastest growing economies and the highest per capita income in the world. • In just decades, Qatar has developed into a major global supplier of energy and is the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a world leader in gas-to-liquids (GTL) production.

International Relations • Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs strives to establish and develop close direct ties with all peace-loving countries and peoples of the world. It is keen to participate actively in efforts to deal with the concerns and challenges that the Gulf region encounters. • Qatar was actively involved in the discussions leading to the foundation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has hosted a number of their Supreme Council Summit Meetings. • Qatar maintains 96 embassies abroad, 8 consulates and 3 other representations. The Qatari capital Doha hosts 94 embassies, and in addition there are consulates and other representations in Qatar.

• Together with Qatari partners, who hold a 51% interest, foreigners can invest in most other sectors subject to approval. See the Banking and Commerce section for more information. Qatar is a member of: • The United Nations (UN) and its subsidiary global organisations. • The Asian Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council. • The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). • The Organisation of Arab Oil Exporting Countries (OAPEC). • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. • The World Trade Organisation (WTO). • The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). • The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC). • The Arab League. • The UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Demography

Transport and Communication

• Qatar's population as at 30 April 2015 was 2,342,725 according to figures released by the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics. • 25% of the population is female. • Over 60% of the population resides in the city of Doha, which is the business and administrative capital. • Other population centres include Dukhan on the west coast, Mesaieed City and Al Wakra in the south, and Ras Laffan and Al Khor in the north. Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLC) is creating a population expansion in Al Khor and the adjoining areas. Projects are underway to provide new housing and amenities in the area.

• The country is served by Hamad International Airport (for more information on Airports see Traveller Information, Hamad International Airport, and Qatar Duty Free in this section). • Metered taxis and limousines are easy to find and there is a comprehensive public transport system. • Qatar has a modern road system linking it with other GCC countries. • An integrated rail and metro network is expected to be largely complete by 2022. See more in the Infrastructure section. • The telecommunications system is currently being upgraded to an entirely fibre-optic network. m

©

QATAR AT A GLANCE M63.indd 3

Qatar at a Glance

• While developing its huge hydrocarbon reserves, Qatar has also diversified its economy, and emphasis

• Investment laws allow for up to 100% foreign investment in many sectors including agriculture, industry, leisure, tourism, health, education and the exploitation of natural resources, energy and mining – subject to dispensation from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce.

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The Fourth Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition 2015 Over 300 local and international specialists in the agricultural sector. The exhibition includes products, equipment, materials and supplies required by the agriculture and food sectors, with a special focus on the environment. Exhibitors will be showcasing everything from farming machines to garden fountains, ornamental ponds and honey production. At *DEC. agriteq.com

10 – 14

Qatar International Boat Show 2015 QIBS provides trade professionals a platform to preview new products, evaluate market trends, and establish long-lasting partnerships with other key players of different business industries, not only from the region but also from other parts of the globe. qibs2015.com

15 – 17

Sports Infrastructure Expo Qatar An event devoted to building partnerships between international suppliers and Qatari contractors, featuring a three‑day exhibition and two‑day conference. Discussions will include Qatar 2030: the Vision, The Challenge; venue architecture; the demands of individual sports and federations; city requirements for major sport events; and the guarantee of legacy for Qatar. At +QNCC.

26 – 29

Aljazeera International Documentary Film Festival Established in 2005, the festival has become an international event and a meeting point for filmmakers and innovators worldwide. The festival showcases a wide range of documentary films that discuss humanitarian, social, economic, and political issues. aljazeera.net/festival

Events August – November

10 – 12

Upcoming events 2 – 6 Dec

Qatar Wedding Fair 2015 At *DEC. qatarweddingfair.com

5 – 8 Dec

Made in Turkey Fair In conjunction with the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, the Fair will take place at the Doha Convention Center to showcase the best of Turkish products. qatarturkey2015.qa

14 – 16 Dec Made in China Exhibition Organised by Qatar Chamber, the trade fair presents high‑end Chinese products and solutions in the fields of construction, science and technology, geared to the Middle East and Africa region. At *DEC. en.chinafairqatar.com To be confirmed

Run the World Festival This year celebrating its fifth anniversary! An initiative of The Youth Company, RTWF is designed to encourage the youth of Qatar to lead an active, athletic and a healthy lifestyle. At ^Katara. rtwfestival.com

18 Dec

National Day A public holiday for the whole country, with celebrations along the Corniche.

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Do's and Don'ts Qatar is a Muslim country with conservative dress codes. Loose trousers are acceptable for women, but avoid shorts and short skirts, strappy low-cut tops, see-through and transparent clothes. Men should avoid wearing sleeveless vests and shorts above the knee.

Do's and Don'ts

IF YOU ARE IN QATAR, YOU ARE ONE OF US... Please do...

Please don't...

use greetings and formalities as they are particularly important when dealing with Arabs. It is considered impolite to start any conversation or request without at least saying 'Good Morning'. Make an effort to learn about the ways, traditions, customs and religion of your host country.

look or stare at people closely no matter how fascinating their dress! This general courtesy is particularly imporatant in a society where modesty in dress and behaviour is mandatory.

dress modestly in Qatar, which is a Muslim country with conservative dress codes. Loose trousers are acceptable for women, but avoid shorts and short skirts, strappy low-cut tops, see‑through and transparent clothes. hail Alijarah, Al Million, Cars Taxi and Karwa turquoise taxis, which are safe, clean and metered. The majority of the drivers speak English. When ordering a taxi by phone do so well in advance as delays can occur. bargain with shopkeepers which is the norm here in the souqs. Always counter the original offer with a lower price than you expect to pay and work slowly upwards to what you wish to spend. watch out for separate counters and sections for women in banks and utility companies. enjoy Qatar at night as it is one of the safest places in the world. During the hot summer and Ramadan you will see people around town well into the early hours of the morning. drink plenty of water in addition to other beverages. At temperatures reaching over 40°C you need at least two litres a day. Deep yellow urine is a sign of dehydration. use a high-factor sunblock on all exposed skin year round. Don't forget the tops of your feet if wearing sandals! Children and fair-skinned people also need a hat or cap. remember the air-conditioning, which can chill you at restaurants, cinemas and malls. Take along a light jacket, sweater or shawl as a precaution. 24

– The 'One of Us' modesty campaign

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DO'S & DON'TS M63.indd 1

ask an Arab lady for information or directions if you are a man. Respect the fact some Arab ladies are private people in public places. They are more than willing to help other women, so if you are in a mixed group, let the women do the talking! be offended if your handshake is refused by a Muslim. Handshakes are most often refused to members of the opposite sex. It is not meant personally, but simply a religious prohibition applicable to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. take a photograph without permission of people (including the police or armed forces) or sensitive sites. Arab women and many older people strongly object to being photographed. be annoyed if your guest/contact is late – just remember time is more elastic in Qatar. use your left hand for eating when in the company of Muslims. The right hand is considered more appropriate as the left hand is reserved for personal hygiene. sit with the soles of your shoes or feet facing towards your Qatari hosts; it is considered insulting. Equally, don’t sit with your back to other guests. drink too much alcohol so that your behaviour is affected in public. Alcohol in Qatar is a strictly regulated concession and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, drunkenness or rowdy behaviour. go barefoot in the sea where stonefish lie camouflaged along the shoreline. Although rare, the poisonous defence mechanism causes excruciating pain and needs a hospital visit. Also be on the lookout for jellyfish, particularly in the summer months. m

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Arabic Phrases Arabs place great importance on greetings, often greeting each other with a number of ritual phrases and fixed responses enquiring about each other’s health, wellbeing and family. As a courtesy, it is important for visitors to learn the basics of how to say hello and goodbye when in their company.

Courtesies/Responses assalam alaykum wa’alaykum salam sabah al khair sabah al noor massa al khair massa al noor marhaba / ya hala marhabatain ma’a salaamah Allah yesalmik kaif haalak? zain, al hamdu lillah wa ant? al hamdu lillah shukran afwan min fadlak tafaddal na’am or aiwa / la ana muta' assef mabrook ramadan kareem eid mubarak

Days of the Week Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

yum yum yum yum yum yum yum

al al al al al al al

ahad ithnain thalatha arba’a khamees jum’a sabt

Time What time is it? a-sa’a kam? One, two, three a-sa’a wahda, o’clock thintain, etc. Late mut’akhar Early mubakkar Tomorrow bukra The day after ba’ad bukra Yesterday ams What time is the appointment? as-sa'a kam al mawidd? When do you open/close? mata taftahoon/tosakkiroon?

Look! Where is? On your right On your left Straight on Stop! Go! Come! Let's go! Tell me When? Bring me/give This That There isn’t any No problem There is no time Impossible Finished God willing (as in 'All being well') For sure Certainly

Insh'Allah Wallah / akeed Wallaahi

10 a'ashara 11 ihda ashar 12 ithna ashar 20 ashareen 50 khamseen 100 mi’a 200 mi'atain 1,000 elf 2,000 elfain 10,000 a'asharat elaf

Essential Foods

Shopping/Eating Out

Bread Water Tea/Coffee Milk Fish Meat Chicken Cheese Fruit Vegetables

Where is the market? wain al souq? I want to buy... areed ashtiri... Do you have ...? andak…? Have/Don’t have fi/mafi How much is it? kam qeemtah? Cheap/Expensive rakhees/ghali Newspaper/Book jareeda/kitaab Map of Doha khareeta al doha Bank bank Money Exchange surrafa Restaurant mataam What kind of food? ay ta'am ladaikum? Toilets al hammam

khubbuz maa, moya chai/gahwa haleeb samak laham dejaj jubna fawakih khudrawat

Travel I want a taxi areed taxi How much is the taxi? kam al ijar? I want to rent a car areed asta'jer sayyara Where is the airline office? wain maktab at tayaran? Take us to the airport khuthna ilal matar

Emergencies Please help me Police station I’m feeling ill I need a doctor I need a hospital Ambulance Pharmacy There's a fire ©

ARABIC PHRASES M63.indd 1

Numbers 0 0 sifr 1 1 wahad 2 2 ithnain 3 3 thalatha 4 4 arba’a 5 5 khamsa 6 6 sitta 7 7 saba’a 8 8 thamanya 9 9 tissa’a

shuff! wain? ala yameenak ala shamalak alatool qif! imshi! ta’al! yalla! qulli mata? or emta? jeeb hatha hathaak mafi mafi mushkila mafi waqt mush mumkin khallas

Arabic Phrases

Peace be upon you And upon you be peace Good morning May your morning be bright Good afternoon/evening May your afternoon/evening be bright Welcome A double welcome to you Go in peace May Allah save you How are you? Well, by Allah’s grace And you? By God’s grace Thanks Not at all / Welcome Please Please (as in 'please sit down') Yes / No I'm sorry Congratulations Ramadan blessings Eid blessings

MARHABA

sa’idni low samaht markaz al shortah ana mareeth areed tabeeb areed mustashfa sayyara is'haaf saydaliya aku narr M63 AUTUMN 2015

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Housing Lawyers and Legal

Many employers provide accommodation or a housing allowance for their employees as part of their contract. You are strongly advised to ensure that it is sufficient, especially with the continuing trend of rising rent prices in Qatar. You may rent a stand-alone villa or a villa located in a compound with a pool and leisure facilities from around QAR12,000 monthly. Alternatively, an unfurnished one-bedroom flat leases for somewhere around QAR11,000 per month at The Pearl-Qatar.

If you are looking to buy a property you may wish to contact one of the following legal companies for advice or help: Al Kaabi Law Firm 4443 6222 Allen & Overy LLP 4419 4444 Al Tamimi & Co 4457 2777 Clifford Chance, Qatar 4491 7040 Clyde & Co LLP 4496 7434 DLA Piper Middle East LLP 4420 6100 Hassan Al Khater Law Office 4443 7770 Law Offices of Gebran Majdalany 4442 8899 Patton Boggs 4453 2500 Simmons & Simmons 4409 6700

Law No 2 of 2010 ended the two-year freeze on residential rents, but extended the ban on increasing rents of commercial properties for another year. The Rent Dispute Resolution Committee is responsible for settling rent disputes between landlords and tenants. The party that files the complaint before the committee must pay a fee of QAR100, in most cases giving tenants a six‑month eviction period. All contracts, whether new or old, must be registered by the landlord at the Office of Registration of Rental Contracts within 30 days of signing the contract. The lease you sign must be written in English and Arabic. Check exactly what is included as necessities, such as air conditioners, are expensive to purchase and maintain. Serviced flats: Furnished flats with cleaning and laundry services provide another option for long or short-term stays. See Serviced Apartments in the Hospitality, Hotels and Dining section.

Letting Agents These agents have a wide variety of property on their lists as well as experience in the local market. Al Emadi Enterprises Alfardan Properties

4466 6625

Al Jazi Real Estate

4440 8488 4483 8786

Coreo Real Estate & Relocation

4469 9950

Direct Real Estate

4442 1472

Homes 2 Rent

4413 4400

Mirage Int'l Property Consultants

4444 4431

New Methods

4410 8000

To Buy Expatriates can purchase property in several developments in Qatar and local banks provide long-term mortgages to suitable applicants. For more information see the Banking and Commerce section.

Relocation Services/Removal Firms There are several moving companies in Doha and many international employers will pay for your relocation. You can move locally by doing the packing yourself and hiring a truck from the Najma Souq area D3, but you will not be insured! Assured Moving Services 4455 3455 CEVA Logistics 4436 9439 Crown Relocations 4462 1115 GAC International Moving 4420 5600 Gulf Warehousing Company 4402 3555 mycoreo.com 4469 9950 P & A Professional 3336 1069 Real Estate & Relocations Qatar Logistics 4455 0991

Other Housing Considerations Furnishing: See the Shopping section for details of furniture outlets. There is always plenty of second-hand furniture around. Look on display boards at supermarkets and in schools, try websites such as qatarliving.com or Buy it, Sell it, Swap it, Qatar on Facebook. Najma has locally produced furniture and a second-hand market D3. Air conditioning: This is essential in summer and requires regular maintenance and servicing. Home Cleaning/Pest Control Services: Home cleaning services are available which can be flexible to meet your requirements. Major pest control is usually carried out once or twice a year to coincide with the start and end of summer. Cleaning Specialists and Pest Control: Al Mutwassit Cleaning & Pest Control 4436 7555 Qatar Home Services 4427 1197 Qatar Pest Control Company (QPC) 5551 7254 ©

LIVING/DAY TO DAY QATAR M63.indd 8

Living in Qatar

To Rent

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Pets

Cremation: Available for domestic pets at the Animal Resources Centre and arranged through your veterinary clinic. Cost QAR1,000, at Hamad General Hospital.

Importing a Pet Pets may be imported as cargo or excess baggage. If you ship your pet as cargo, it will go to Hamad International Airport’s special facility for pets where it will be cared for until it clears customs. However you choose to import your pet, you will need a permit from the Department of Animal Resources. You can get this up to two weeks before the date of travel and it is valid for one month. To get an import permit, your pet will need a rabies vaccination certificate and a health certificate issued by a government vet in the country of origin. You cannot obtain an import permit from outside the country, so it is recommended that you use one of Qatar’s pet relocation specialists to handle the importation. Short-nosed cats and dogs (eg Persians and Pugs) are embargoed on many airlines, including Qatar Airways. Your pet's travel kennel must comply with the IATA regulations, iata.org. Some dog breeds are banned in Qatar – check with a pet relocator specialist.

Exporting a Pet All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and must be microchipped. You will then need to arrange rabies serology tests to obtain the necessary certification. You are strongly advised to check all health requirements and regulations with relevant government authorities and the relevant country well ahead of time. Contact your local vet, animal support organisation and pet relocator specialist in Qatar and refer to the relevant countries' government website.

Airlines require a health certificate, obtainable from the Animal Resources department. You will need to take your pet for an examination and show current vaccination records. The export document is valid for only seven days. Present it at the QNT Office in the Cargo Section at Hamad International Airport at least five days before you wish your pet to travel and book a flight there. You will need to pay the full fare plus handling charges at this stage. Your pet needs a travel kennel that complies with the airline’s regulations. As regulations and requirements relating to the import and export of pets are subject to change, it is recommended that you contact a pet relocator specialist to help you. m

Private Veterinary Clinics and Services ✔ Indicates microchipping services are available Dr Faris Al Timimi Clinic (Katara) 4408 1492, drfarisaltimimiclinic.com ✔ Laws for Paws (Lucille Berger) 5521 5843, see Facebook page for details Pampered Pets Kennels & Cattery 5588 4132, ppkdoha.net Park View Pet Center 4417 1560, parkviewpetcenter.net ✔ Qatar Veterinary Centre 4016 1366, 4498 9620, qatarvet.com ✔ Qatar Pet Relocators 5528 6335, qatarpetrelocators.com ✔ Qatar Pet Travel 5542 4030, qatarpettravel.com ✔ The Veterinary Surgery 4436 7187, dohavets.com ✔ ©

LIVING/DAY TO DAY QATAR M63.indd 13

Living in Qatar

Health certificates are required for the import and export of animals, and there are strict controls on the movements of endangered species. The Municipality's Department for Animal Resources operates a large veterinary clinic on Al Matar Street D4 as well as two smaller branches in Al Rayyan and Al Shamal. For the Department of Animal Resources call 4456 0444 and for the Main Veterinary Clinic call 4456 0435, or send mail to PO Box 23211. There are free vaccination and trap/neuter/return services for cats and dogs. All animals should be microchipped – the department also offers this service as do all the veterinary clinics in Qatar.

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Infrastructure Infrastructure in Qatar n overview of local infrastructure, with details of ongoing megaprojects and new A developments, and contact information for contractors.

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Feature – New Construction Rules

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Map of Infrastructure Projects

The government has recently introduced clear guidelines that companies must adopt to ensure the safety of all near construction sites.

Locations of the main projects in Qatar

Š

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Infrastructure in Qatar

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.

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’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. 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 predicts robust economic performance in the period 2013–2016, with average GDP growth of about 5.3%, well above regional and global levels. By 2016, non‑hydrocarbon revenue is expected to represent around 56% of total income. 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 at the time and to dramatically 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. A corresponding construction boom is expected to peak in 2015. ©

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Infrastructure in Qatar

The Qatar Faculty for Islamic Studies, winner of the MEED Quality Awards GCC project of the year in May

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Hospitality, Hotels & Dining Tourism in Qatar

130

Places to Stay

143

Feature – Dining With Celebrity Chefs

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What’s On at Hotels

Doha is becoming an international foodie capital with the opening of several new restaurants by celebrity chefs.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Wyndham Grand Regency Four Seasons Hotel Doha Sharq Village & Spa La Cigale Hotel InterContinental Doha

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Dining in Qatar

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Dining Guide Listings

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Details of places to eat and drink in Qatar, from fine dining establishments to fast food outlets

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Tourism in Qatar

© Andrea Buenafe

Qatar Tourism Authority’s (QTA) tourism performance summary report for the first quarter of 2015 reveals continued growth in the number of foreign visitors, with 11% more arrivals compared to the same period in 2014. Key performance indicators show a thriving tourist accommodation sector, with significant increases in both occupancy rates and revenue per available room across all hotels. Regional and international visitor arrivals totalled 841,025, representing a strong 11% year-on-year increase. In comparison to Q1 2014, arrivals from the Americas grew by 17%, from Europe by 9%, and from other Asia by 7%. Arrivals from parts of Arab and African nations remained roughly the same. During Q1 2015, the overall growth of 16% from the GCC countries was primarily dominated by an increase in visitor arrivals from Saudi Arabia, which grew by 28% compared to Q1 2014. The majority of this growth took place in March, when Saudi visitor arrivals grew by 82% compared to March 2014. Monthly arrivals to Qatar during Q1 2015 align with previous years’ trends, where arrivals are high in January, dipping slightly in February and rebounding in March. Looking at month-by-month arrival patterns at a regional level shows particularly strong performance by GCC countries in March 2015 compared to March 2014. This was almost exclusively driven by a large influx of arrivals

Indoor golf centre at Megapolis

from Saudi Arabia, making March 2015 Qatar’s busiest month for tourist arrivals ever.

Cruise industry In a recent statement, QTA announced ambitious plans to promote the country as a world-class tourism hub by diversifying its services and supporting the cruise industry, which has grown regionally at a rate of 30% a year over the past decade. Over the past few years, QTA has established a number of strong relationships with international cruise operators as well as with other specialists involved in the industry. This has proved to be of great importance as Qatar will be benefitting from cruise ships over the 2022 FIFA World CupTM, as a means of providing additional accommodation for fans and visitors over the period. QTA will be contracting a minimum of 6,000 rooms on cruise ships for the 2022 tournament, and is building its knowledge base to develop this sector of the maritime industry. The cruise industry can contribute to the local economy in the long term, and as it develops it would benefit other partners like Qatar Airways as passengers will make use of the national carrier’s services when entering or exiting Qatar to join potential cruises. Local excursion and tour operators would also benefit greatly as ‘shore excursions’ are extremely popular amongst cruise passengers. m A 5,000 sq m family entertainment centre, Megapolis, is set to open in Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar in the last quarter of 2015, in what promises to be the biggest indoor entertainment centre in the region and a tourism hot-spot. The centre will combine a multitude of entertainment venues that range from arcades and indoor attractions like golf, bowling, snooker, billiard and darts, to high tech 3D and 5D games, karaoke and an active sports zone. ©

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Tourism in Qatar

Positive tourism growth

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Dining in Qatar Reflecting its multicultural society, Qatar has a huge range of cuisines to choose from. Venues range from tiny cafeterias with just a couple of tables, to gourmet restaurants in the finest locations. Many international franchises have branches countrywide for those addicted to certain brands. Check out the Marhaba Dining Guide, now available in the stores and also as an eBook at marhaba.qa/eguides. Keep up to date with news and reviews from the gourmet world on our dining website, DiningQatar.com

The French Olive, Barwa Towers, Doha

Grabbing a bite around town

Helpful hints

There are many local and international fast food and coffee outlets, often with a drive-through service. Almost every street and souq has a juice stall selling fresh juices and sandwiches. Try Middle Eastern snacks, both savoury and sweet, with a cup of chai karak, the local hot sweet and milky tea.

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has made it illegal for businesses to include a service charge, but for extra special service feel free to tip. Many restaurants have a family section for those dining with children, and there are some with closed-off rooms should you require extra privacy or need to entertain a group of people. Restaurants are generally no smoking zones, though some licensed restaurants may have both a smoking and a non-smoking section.

When down at Doha’s Corniche, take the opportunity of dining at IDAM at the Museum of Islamic Art, Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in the Middle East, with décor designed by Philippe Starck.

Dining at home A large number of restaurants offer a takeaway service; this will often include home delivery, usually with a nominal delivery fee included. Many restaurants and hotels also provide a full outside catering service for special occasions, including chefs, waiting staff and table settings. And they will clear up afterward, so no need to worry about the washing up!

Dining in Qatar

Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Doha

Friday and Saturday brunch is a Doha institution, popular with both locals and expatriates, and is widely available both in hotels and at outlets around town. The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol in Qatar is 21. Your ID may be requested if dining at a licensed restaurant, as well as at bars and clubs, so remember to take your passport or Qatari ID card. Some clubs and bars will ask you to pay a joining fee, and issue a membership card to use on return visits. m

An adventure in food Launched in July 2015, DiningQatar.com is a foodie’s guide to restaurants in Qatar. Inspired by Marhaba Dining Guide, the website provides comprehensive information on restaurants, including opening hours, a map, dress code and whether they accept credit cards. Moreover, the strong social networking aspect of the website involving active participation of food bloggers and customers makes it a credible source of information. DiningQatar.com allows users/visitors to search restaurants by region, cuisine type, budget, and customer ratings. The blog section lists the latest foodie news in the state. And – the highlight – are the video profiles of each restaurant featuring the facilities, restaurant manager and the chef. Bookmark the website and follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest on dining in Qatar. Facebook.com/DiningQatar

@DiningQatar

@DiningQatar

The following pages list some of the places to eat and drink in Qatar. ©

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Il Teatro

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Taj Rasoi

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Salsa Tex‑Mex

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Corniche International, seafood buffet

Asia Live!

Doha Marriott

La Bruschetta Italian

Doha Downtown Hotel 4438 0470

International Brazilian Churrascaria

Rodizio

4408 7777

International

Aramede

Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park

Choices

Copthorne Hotel

Trattoria Restaurant

Italian

International

Olives International

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Al Dheyafa Light snacks, desserts

Concorde Hotel Doha

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International with Lebanese flavour

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Monde

Century Hotel

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Al Bustan Hotel 4432 8888

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Nobu Doha at Four Seasons Hotel Doha

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Prime at InterContinental Doha The City

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La Veranda at Sheraton Hotel Doha

1555 International ✔ ✔ International, Middle Eastern ✔ ✘ 1234 Authentic Thai ✘ ✔ Italian ✘ ✘ International, Asian ✔ ✔ 2212 Middle Eastern, European ✔ ✘ 3333 Snacks, salads, sandwiches ✘ ✘ International, Asian, Indian ✔ ✔ Asian Polynesian ✘ ✘ Snacks, afternoon tea ✔ ✘ 4888 Chinese, Japanese ✘ ✔ International ✔ ✘

TELEPHONE

Governor West Bay Suites and Residences 4445 Fusion Restaurant Governor Café Grand Hyatt Doha 4448 Isaan Rocca The Grill Gulf Paradise 4432 Al Thoraya Hilton Doha 4423 Bab Al Baher Mawasem Trader Vic’s Ya Hala Holiday Villa Hotel & Residences 4408 D’Chopstix Lagenda

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Shopping

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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

Shopping

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Map of The Pearl‑Qatar Your guide to retail outlets and more at The Pearl‑Qatar

Feature – Qatar’s Newest Malls Qatar’s shopping options are set to increase exponentially with the opening a number of new malls over the next few years.

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Souqs Though various souq complexes are scattered around town, when people in Qatar talk of the 'souqs' they usually refer to the city’s oldest market area, in the heart of the city near Al Corniche. Souqs range from the traditional-style Souq Waqif, which still retains the atmosphere and spirit of the old bazaar, to the more modern air-conditioned, marble-clad complexes. When shopping in the souqs you have the opportunity to bargain and remember most shops take payment in cash only. Between the traditional and the modern souqs, you will find the cheaper imports, high-end designer items and just about everything else! Similar products to those found in malls are usually cheaper in the souqs. A map of the central souqs with shopping and restaurant locations is at the end of this section. Shopping hours at the souqs are usually 10 am – 1 pm and 4 pm – 7 pm (Souq Waqif has longer opening hours).

Access to cash is available at the Doha Bank ATM, a branch of QNB and Doha Exchange, all at Souq Waqif.

Souq Waqif Souq Waqif, the oldest souq in Doha, is situated in the heart of the city and is a major tourist attraction. It was originally a weekend market used by the Bedouin when they came to town to trade their meat, wool, weaving materials and milk for staple goods. It still is a bustling business area. The souq has undergone a complete restoration and provides the perfect setting to shop, or dine at one of its wide range of cafés and restaurants or in one of the eight boutique hotels. Each morning the heritage police ride through on horses or camels and there are ample opportunities to take pictures, but please ask permission first. The maze of narrow alleyways lined with small shops, displaying their wares piled high and spilling out onto the walkway, includes shops with souvenirs, falcons and pet stores. The perfume vendors sell everything, from well‑known international brands to blends of essential oils as well as oud, the aromatic agarwood burnt as a sign of hospitality. Traditional clothing includes richly decorated items or the plain and practical. Shayla and abaya are ladies' embroidered headscarves and black cloaks worn in public. The shayla make pretty

evening scarves. Sirwal are baggy trousers with highly embroidered, tight ankle cuffs and are great casual wear around the home. Menswear includes bisht, cloaks worn at ceremonial occasions, embroidered. You may get the opportunity to watch the embroiderers working freehand on old treadle machines, or beating the gold edging once it has been stitched. Thobes are the long white cotton robes worn by men. The North African version makes a cool summer kaftan for beach or home. Souvenirs include traditional Arab dallah (coffee pots) as well as brassstudded wooden chests in many sizes. Woven items include bedouin weaving, traditional floor cushions, kelims and carpets as well as colourful baskets. Silver jewellery, misbah (prayer beads, pictured) and traditional gypsum carvings make attractive mementoes. Visit Gallery Hosh behind Zäatar w Zeit restaurant, where you can pick up handmade souvenirs. The spice and coffee traders lend their part of the souq a unique aroma, with displays of whole and ground spices and coffee. Both are purchased by weight, and if you want a jar of mixed spices as a unique gift take an empty glass container and the vendor will fill it with layers of colourful ground spices. You can also purchase sweets, rice, nuts, dried fruits and honey. ©

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Shopping in Qatar

Parking at the new underground car park, located under the Souq Waqif park. Entry to the lot can be found along the Corniche. There is an air-conditioned underground car park adjacent to Shioukh Mosque and the Emiri Diwan, off Al Rayyan Road, with an underground walkway connecting to Souq Waqif.

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Special Features Art Talk

Meet Patric Rozario, and Steve and Verity Watkins – expatriate artists with a flair for locally inspired artwork.

210

Fire Station: Artists in Residence

The Fire Station is an interactive artistic platform, bringing together new ideas, concepts and talent from people of all backgrounds.

213

The State Mosque

As the State Mosque heads towards its fourth anniversary in December, discover the beauty and significance of this impressive building.

216 Qatar is Sweet

If you want delicious and nutritious honey, Qatar’s beekeepers are proving to be the bees knees!

220 Animal Welfare in Islam

In Islam, the Quran urges Muslims to treat animals with compassion and not to abuse them.

224 Made in Qatar

Special Features

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From mineral water to bread and furniture, you will start to see more and more Qatari products in stores.

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Sports marhaba.qa

n overview of the local sports scene, including Qatar’s Sports Federations and A Olympic Committee

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Events Calendar

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Feature – On The Ball

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Feature – Punching for Glory

Details of upcoming sporting competitions

Don’t score a home goal! Learn all about the Qatar Stars League, which begins a new season in September.

Sports

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Qatar’s Best BLOG!

Sports in Qatar

Boxers taking part at the AIBA World Championships 2015 will be throwing punches in Doha – but only in the ring!

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Feature – Paralympic Champions See paralympic athletes in action as they compete to qualify for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

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 Sport is an important part of everyday life in Qatar and most sporting venues are open to the public to encourage a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise. Qatar has hosted some prestigious international sporting events: the 15th Asian Games (2006), the AFC Asian Cup (2010), the 12th Pan Arab Games (2011), the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) (December 2014), and the Men’s Handball World Championship (January 2015). Coming up are the UCI Road World Championships (2016), the FIG Artistic World Gymnastics Championships (2018), the 2019 IAAF World Championships, and the 2022 FIFA World CupTM.

Sports in Qatar

Annual international events include • Commercial Bank Qatar Masters (golf) • Commercial Bank Grand Prix of Qatar (MotoGP) • Qatar Classic Squash Tournament • Qatar ExxonMobil Open (tennis) • Qatar Ladies Open (tennis) • Qatar Table Tennis Open • Sail the Gulf Regatta • Samsung Diamond League Athletics • Tours of Qatar (mens and women's cycling)

The world-class sporting facilities in Qatar attract top international athletes and high‑profile celebrities. Visitors can enjoy events as diverse as hydroplane power boats, drag racing and equestrian competitions.

Sports Venues Aspire Zone C5 Venues offering sports, sports medicine, research and education. Includes Aspire Dome, Khalifa Stadium, Hamad Aquatic Centre, Aspire Park and the Ladies' Sports Hall. Aspire Active fitness programmes run throughout the year. 4413 6219, aspire.qa The Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence provides applied sports science support to coaches and student‑athletes, and hosts international sports teams using the extensive training facilities. 4413 6570, aspire.qa Aspetar is the first specialised orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital in the Gulf region, offering treatment for sports‑related injuries by leading sports medicine practitioners and researchers. 4413 2000, aspetar.com Other sports venues include: • Doha Golf Club • Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex • Losail International Racing Circuit • Lusail Olympic Shooting Range • Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club • West End Park Stadium

Qatar Olympic Committee Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) was established in 1979 to oversee sports events and the participation of national teams in international, regional and local competitions, in accordance with the Olympic Charter. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani (pictured below) has been elected President of the QOC until the end of 2016, replacing the Emir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The new Secretary General is Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, replacing Sheikh Sheikh Saoud bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani. QOC runs the 'Sport for Life' campaign to engage residents in keeping fit and healthy, and the Schools Olympic Programme, an annual event for schoolchildren. olympic.qa, schoolsolympic.com

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• Paralympics • Rugby • Sailing and Marine Sport • Shooting and Archery • Sports for All • Sports for Women • Squash • Swimming • Table Tennis • Taekwondo and Judo • Tennis • Volleyball • Weightlifting • Wrestling

Get involved

Checked & Updated June 2015

Sports Federations • Athletics • Basketball • Billiards and Snooker • Bowling • Boxing • Chess • Cycling • Equestrian • Fencing • Football • Golf • Gymnastics • Handball • Karate • Motor and Motorcycle

A vast range of sporting activities is on offer in Qatar – see Sports Activities for full details of classes and clubs. The Sports Calendar has an overview of events taking place in the coming months – and don't forget to keep up to date with news and events at marhaba.qa m

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To be confirmed

Champion of Champions Al Shaqab, the spectacular state-of-the-art equestrian stadium complex, will welcome some of the biggest and brightest names in show jumping, culiminating in the prestigious award going to the overall Longines Global Champions Tour Champion. alshaqab.com

Qatar’s Best BLOG! marhaba.qa

Sports Events Calendar

16 – 20

Marine sports Qatar Sailing Open 2015 Starting from Katara, see the boats in and around West Bay.

23 – 31 Optimist World Team Racing Championship, where children below 15 years of age can compete using small, single‑handed dinghies. Competitors from more than 30 countries take part. At Katara. qatarsailing.org

17 – 19

Qatar International Swimming Championship At Hamad Aquatic Complex, Aspire Zone. qatarswimming.com

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Motor sport: Continuing action in the Eni FIM Superbike World Championship. Full schedule of this event and many others can be found on the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation website. qmmf.com

22 – 31

Doha 2015 IPC Athletics World Championships A biennial event organised by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and taking place in the Middle East for the first time. Athletes with a physical disability compete, and in a few events athletes with an intellectual disability compete. The 10‑day event is expected to attract 1,300 athletes from 90 countries, and will be held at Suhaim bin Hamad Stadium, home to Qatar Sports Club. paralympic.org/doha-2015

26 – 8 Nov Asian Men's Qualification – Handball A qualifying event for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, with competitors from all over the world looking to secure their place. At Duhail Handball Assocation Hall. ihf.info, asianhandball.org 30 – 6 Nov Qatar Classic 2015 The world’s top-seeded male squash players converge on Doha to participate in this annual tournament, part of the PSA World Series. At Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. olympic.qa Swimming 5 – 6

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FINA Swimming World Cup 2015 Launched in 1979, the FINA Swimming World Cup gathers world‑class swimmers in a series of two-day meets organised between August and November each year. The circuit is structured in clusters (Middle East, Europe and Asia) with a total of 36 events on the competition programme, including two mixed relays. At Hamad Aquatic Complex, Aspire Zone. fina.org

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Education

Feature – The Law Governing Nurseries

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Useful Numbers

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Education in Qatar

Important new changes have been introduced relating to the running of nurseries in Qatar.

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

• Primary and Secondary Education • School Facts • 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

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295 Map of Education City 300

Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses

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Education Courses/Lectures

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Feature – Hackathons and Learning

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

Hackathons are changing the way we learn and create. Students and professionals have devised a new way to change the learning curve.

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Education in Qatar Qatar places education at the heart of its national development strategy as it seeks to move from a hydrocarbon-based to a knowledge-based economy. Its vision is for all citizens to have equal access to education and training consistent with their abilities and interests – and which will prepare them for participation in the workforce where possible. So great is its belief in the global importance of education, Qatar also funds a number of educational initiatives overseas. Qatar’s continuously growing population reached 2,374,860 persons by 31 May 2015. Over 243,000 students were enrolled for the 2014–15 academic year.

The number of nurseries and kindergartens exceed 120 and 53 respectively.

Primary and Secondary Education State schools are gender-segregated after preschool and divided into primary, preparatory, secondary and specialised secondary categories. A range of educational facilities at all levels in both sectors, from nursery to post-graduate level, offers parents, guardians and students – both citizens and residents – a wide choice. However, almost all sectors are under pressure as the population continues to increase and legislation restricts class size. The majority of Qatari students are enrolled in the public sector, but the number attending (private) international schools has surged in the past decade. Primary education is compulsory for all Qatari children from age six. Mandatory kindergarten (KG) attendance for Qatari children from the age of four and their compulsory secondary education are also envisaged. New directives and initiatives * Fifty new private schools will open in the next academic year beginning in September 2015. The SEC received 96 applications to open new schools this year which included 33 schools following the British curriculum and 29 schools following the American curriculum. There were 16 applications for Indian schools and one for a Bangladeshi school. The requests also included four French schools, three Canadian, five Egyptian, one Australian, one Turkish and one Lebanese. * Traffic safety will be made part of the curriculum of all independent and private schools in Qatar by the next academic year. The project was first launched in four schools on a trial basis during the 2013–14 academic year and currently 25 schools including some private schools are

giving traffic safety awareness lessons. The Curriculum Standards Office has a team of specialists to follow up on implementation of the project. Traffic safety will not be taught as an independent subject but it will be incorporated in the curriculum as part of other subjects and through contextual learning. The project targets all schools – independent, private and international – from KG to Grade 12 levels to raise traffic safety awareness among children, both as pedestrians and future drivers. * HE the Minister of Administrative Development Dr Issa Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi unveiled a plan to provide scholarships to 21,386 Qatari students and government employees. He pointed out that under the plan, the government will sponsor students and employees in government bodies both at universities within the state and abroad in various disciplines including medicine, engineering, computer science, financial management, economy, tourism, media and public relations, communications and aviation. * Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) has signed an agreement with International Baccalaureate (IB) to provide a series of teacher training workshops. The workshops are conducted in both English and Arabic. They are designed and developed by IB, and delivered by experienced IB educators from around the world. * The new guidelines that the Supreme Education Council (SEC) has issued for registration of students in private schools provide flexibility and more convenience for parents and educational institutions apart from bringing in uniformity to the process. The new rules also make it clear that schools will have to announce the number of vacancies for each academic year in advance and admit the students within the period of time specified by the SEC. ©

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Education in Qatar

In addition to the country’s 178 public sector schools, there are some 154 private schools (including Community Schools), following the Qatari, British, American, Indian, French, Egyptian, Lebanese, Canadian, German, Finnish, Filipino, Syrian and Japanese curriculums. The Sri Lankan school offers a mix of the British and (recently introduced) Sri Lankan curriculums, and a Chinese school is scheduled to open within a year.

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Health & Beauty Map of Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City

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Useful Numbers

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Healthcare in Qatar

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Health Insurance Scheme

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Health and Wellness

340 344

Spas & Beauty Centres

Locations of hospitals, outpatient departments and emergency services.

• HMC Hospitals • Ministry of Public Health • Primary Health Care Centres • Private Medical Centres/Doctors • Dental and Optical Centres • 24‑hour Pharmacies • Support Groups/Helplines

• Healthcare News • Primary Healthcare; The Primary Health Care Corporation • Supreme Council of Health • Hamad Medical Corporation; Hamad General Hospital; Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Center; Women’s Hospital; Rumailah Hospital; Al Maha Children’s Unit; Enaya Specialized Care Center; National Center for Cancer Care and Research; Al Khor Hospital; Heart Hospital; Al Wakra Hospital; The Cuban Hospital; Ambulance Service; Walk In/Pediatric Emergency Centers; Hamad International Training Centre; Academic Health System; Medical Education; Blood Donation; Organ Donation • Private Healthcare and New Developments; Sidra Medical and Research Center

Learn more about the recent changes to the Health Insurance Scheme, now called Seha.

• Holistic Wellness • Pilates • Yoga

Health & Beauty

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• Spas • Beauty Centres • Complementary Clinics

347 Feature – A Guideline to Good Health

The Supreme Council of Health has issued dietary guidelines that are easy for all the family to adopt.

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Healthcare in Qatar Many changes and improvements have been introduced since the country opened its first hospital over 50 years ago. Billions of dollars are being spent on improving and expanding Qatar's healthcare system to cope with the rise in population. According to the World Health Organization, Qatar is spending more money per capita on healthcare than any other country in the Gulf. The healthcare system is available to all – nationals, expatriates and visitors. The public healthcare service provides free or extremely subsidised healthcare; the exception to this may be treatment for highly specialised services. Expatriates or visitors may have to pay towards some medical costs – check with your employer to see what health insurance you are eligible for, or contact one of the insurance companies to take extra personal cover. Qatar is currently working towards introducing new regulations – see further on in this section about the health insurance system for more details.

Healthcare in Qatar

Healthcare News

Ambulances get green light at more intersections Emergency Vehicle Pre‑emption System (EVPS) sensors have been installed at 50 more intersections, bringing the total to 80. The EVPS is an advanced system consisting of three units, installed on the traffic signals, described as intersection unit, vehicles (vehicle unit) and the Central Management Software, enabling those manning the system devices and units ensure the efficiency of their performance and maintenance. High number of asthma patients Up to 5,000 asthma patients visit the Chest Clinic at Hamad Medical Corporation each year for treatment and follow‑ups. Asthma may be triggered by such things as tobacco smoke, allergies or infections – patients should avoid an attack by taking their medication and making informed decisions about their lifestyle. Parents must accompany children in event of an emergency Children must be accompanied by their parents, not by housemaids or drivers, in order to be treated at the Paediatric Emergency Centres (PECs). Critically‑ill children will be treated, irrespective of whether they were accompanied by their parents or not. However, children suffering from minor illnesses will undergo routine medical examination until one of the parents arrived. 322

Stroke Awareness Campaign

Draft law approved regarding organ transplant The Advisory Council has approved a draft law that regulates the transplant of human organs. It bans any transplants of human organs, cells or tissues or part of them other than stipulated in the law, and completely bans the transplant of reproductive organs from either living or dead donors to avoid any potential mixture in progeny. The donor has the right to donate or wish the donation of any of his body organs, tissues or cells through a written affidavit witnessed by two eligible persons. The donor also has the right to withdraw his decision at any time before the operation.

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A new campaign by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) aims to raise public awareness of the signs and symptoms of a stroke and the correct action to take if one occurs. Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and the number one cause of chronic disability in the world. Due to the high prevalence in Qatar’s population of many risk factors for stroke – diabetes, smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, hypertension and inactivity – the incidence of stroke is high. HMC has a specialist Stroke Ward at Hamad General Hospital ensuring patients are given the safest and most effective care possible. The awareness campaign (pictured above) uses the internationally‑established F.A.S.T. message to highlight the major signs of stroke and reinforce the need to act quickly. For more information visit the HMC website. hamad.qa

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Health Insurance Scheme

Health Insurance Scheme

Executive Regulations published in October 2013 further clarified aspects of the introduction of the health insurance scheme. These include confirming the NHIC as the sole provider of insurance coverage for basic health services in Qatar, and defining the healthcare provider obligations for joining the scheme’s network.

The enactment of the Health Insurance Law No 7 of 2013 in June 2013 paved the way for the launch of Qatar’s social health insurance scheme (Seha) which will see the entire population of the country insured for their basic healthcare needs. The law tasks the National Health Insurance Company (NHIC) with the implementation and management of the health insurance scheme and establishes the framework for the introduction of the national health insurance system. Key articles of the law, which comprises six chapters and 30 articles, include the following: • Article 5 provides that the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) shall be responsible for the health insurance system, its supervision, and regulation. • According to Article 6, the SCH General Secretariat shall, among other things, submit periodic recommendations to the Minister on the basic health service that must be provided to the beneficiaries, the amount of the insurance premium, and the required degree of government support. • Article 13 stipulates that the government shall pay the insurance premiums for Qatari citizens while employers and sponsors will be responsible for the premiums of employees, employees’ dependents and sponsored individuals. • Article 18 states that employees and sponsors are not allowed in any way to recover the cost of the health insurance from their employees, employees’ dependents or sponsored indivuals. • Article 19 provides that the government shall establish a Qatari joint stock company, the National Health Insurance Company (NHIC), which will be responsible for the implementation and management of the health insurance system.

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M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

Seha – the National Health Insurance Scheme Stage 2 of the National Health Insurance Scheme, Seha, provides mandatory health insurance coverage for all Qatari nationals and forms a key component in the realisation of the National Health Strategy and the overall Qatar National Vision 2030. Launched in July 2013 with coverage for Qatari females aged 12 and over for gynaecology, obstetrics, maternity and related women’s health issues, the scheme was expanded in April 2014 to cover all Qatari nationals for the full spectrum of basic health services. Coverage includes both inpatient and outpatient services including preventative care, emergency treatment, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, long‑term care, radiology, ophthalmology, laboratory testing and prescription medicines as well as dental and optical services. Users of the scheme have access to a wide range of public and private healthcare providers for their medical needs, with the inclusion of both public and private providers in the Seha network affording Qatari nationals greater flexibility, choice and quality in seeking the medical treatment that best meets their needs. Members will now receive an SMS confirmation that their request has been successfully received. As of June 2015, the Seha network has grown to over 225 providers, including eight public hospitals, three private hospitals, five Primary Health Care Corporation clinics, 64 private clinics and medical centres, 74 specialised dental centres, four physiotherapy centres and 40 optical providers. The Seha provider network is being expanded on a continuous basis and members are advised to check first for up to date network details. Information and updates on the scheme are available at the Seha website seha.qa and through social media at facebook.com/SehaQatar and twitter.com/SehaQatar. Members can also contact the Seha call centre on 800 8800, stop by one of the information booths at several participating hospitals or visit the customer contact centre on the sixth floor of Amwal Tower in Al Dafna (West Bay). m

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Health and Wellness Marhaba updates this section every issue, but as information may change after going to press, check with the organisation concerned for up to date details. If your organisation is listed on these pages and you need to amend your entry, or if you would like to be included in future issues, let us know: email marhaba@qatar.net.qa. Locations can be found on the map of Doha at the front of the guide. Also see: • Leisure Activities in the Discovering Qatar section for dance classes • Hospitality in Qatar for a complete list of hotels and their fitness facilities • Sports Activities for fitness classes, gyms, clubs and associations 3 An activity for children or one that children can participate in – check first for any age restrictions

Holistic Wellness

Four Seasons Hotel C4 The spa can create a comprehensive programme incorporating holistic fitness, wellness and relaxation for each client's unique needs. 4494 8801, fourseasons.com/doha Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village and Spa D4 Workshops and consultations, plus detoxification and holistic wellness programmes. Look out for details of visiting practitioners. 4425 6999, sixsenses.com/spas/doha Yama Yoga Studios E2 Garvey's European Family Club and B3 Asas Tower, Al Dafna. Wellbeing, weight loss programmes, meditation and mindfulness. See the online calendar for up to date schedule. 6617 5802 (Garvey's), 5572 1728 (Asas Tower), yamayogastudios.com 3

Pilates Four Seasons Hotel C4 Call first for up to date schedule. 4494 8801, fourseasons.com/doha

Yoga Four Seasons Hotel C4 Power and vinyasa. Call first for up to date schedule. 4494 8801, fourseasons.com/doha InterContinental Doha B3 Swasthi and prenatal classes. See the online calendar for up to date schedule. 4484 4852, ihg.com InterContinental Doha The City B3 Sunday 6 pm, Tuesday 7 pm. Bookings must be made at least one day in advance. 4015 8661, ihg.com Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3 Wednesday 7 pm, Friday 8:30 am, Saturday 10 am. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 See their Facebook page for up to date schedule. 4485 4444, sheratondoha.com Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village and Spa D4 Ashtanga, hatha, dynamic, hot yoga, detox, power, full moon and meditation. See their Facebook page for up to date schedule. 4425 6999, sixsenses.com/spas/doha

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha D3 Tuesday 7 pm. 4428 1621, radissonblu.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A3 Classic and hatha. Booking essential, call first for up to date schedule. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com

Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel C4 See their Facebook page for up to date schedule. 4485 4444, sheratondoha.com

The St. Regis Doha B3 Group and private classes available. Members only. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com

Six Senses Spa at Sharq Village and Spa D4 See their Facebook page for up to date schedule. 4425 6999, sixsenses.com/spas/doha

Yama Yoga Studios E2 Garvey's European Family Club and B3 Asas Tower, Al Dafna. Ashtanga, iyengar, vinyasa, mysore and hatha; introduction to yoga/beginners; pre/postnatal, kids and teen yoga; and candlelit yin. Also teacher training programmes. See the online calendar for up to date schedule. 6617 5802 (Garvey's), 5572 1728 (Asas Tower), yamayogastudios.com 3 m

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha A3 Booking essential, call first for up to date schedule. 4484 8173, ritzcarlton.com The St. Regis Doha B3 Group and private classes available. Members only. 4446 0304, stregisdoha.com

©

M63 HEALTH AND WELLNESS.indd 1

MARHABA

M63 AUTUMN 2015

Checked & Updated June 2015

InterContinental Doha The City B3 Tuesday 8:30 am, Wednesday 10:30 am. 4015 8661, ihg.com

Health and Wellness

Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara C5 Tailored holistic approach, assessing lifestyle, and physical, mental and emotional states, for a personally prescribed programme. 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com

Yama Yoga Studios E2 Garvey's European Family Club and B3 Asas Tower, Al Dafna. See the online calendar for up to date schedule. 6617 5802 (Garvey's), 5572 1728 (Asas Tower), yamayogastudios.com

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6/28/15 10:29 AM


Banking & Commerce

• • • • •

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

358 Economy

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

359

Commerce Useful Numbers

360 Investment and Trade • • • • • •

366

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

Feature – Fighting Cyber Crime Learn what measures the authorities are taking to fight online security threats from hackers.

©

MARHABA

Banking & Commerce

353 Banking and Finance

M63 AUTUMN 2015

351


Banking and Finance Currency The exchange rate of the Qatari Riyal against one US Dollar is officially pegged at QAR3.64 The unit of currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), which is divided into 100 Dirhams (Dh). Currency is issued by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). Notes in circulation are QAR1, QAR5, QAR10, QAR50, QAR100 and QAR500. Coins in circulation 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

Banks Regional Banks Ahli Bank Al Khaliji Commercial Bank Commercial Bank of Qatar Doha Bank International Bank of Qatar Qatar Development Bank Qatar National Bank Branches of Foreign Banks Arab Bank Qatar Bank Saderat Iran – Qatar BNP Paribas HSBC Mashreq Bank Standard Chartered Bank United Bank Limited Islamic Banks Barwa Bank Masraf Al Rayan Qatar First Bank Qatar International Islamic Bank Qatar Islamic Bank Investment Banks QInvest Wealth Management Barclays

Telephone Website 800 2222 4494 0000 4449 0000 4445 6000 4447 8000 4430 0000 4440 7777

ahlibank.com.qa alkhaliji.com cbq.qa dohabank.com.qa ibq.com.qa qdb.qa qnb.com

4438 4441 4453 4442 4408 4465 4444

arabbank.com.qa bsi.com.qa mea.bnpparibas.com hsbc.com.qa mashreqbank.com/qatar sc.com/qa ubldirect.com

7878 4646 7115 4722 3333 8555 1314

Currency & Exchange Alfardan Exchange 4433 5132 Sun – Thu 7:45 am – 9 pm Fri 3 pm – 9 pm Al Mana Exchange 4448 9050 Sun – Thu 7:30 am – 8 pm Fri 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm Al Sadd Exchange 4432 3334 Sat 8 am – 12:30 pm/4 pm – 8:30 pm Sun – Thu 7:30 am – 1 pm/ 4 pm – 8:30 pm Fri 4 pm – 8 pm Arabian Exchange 4443 8300 Sat – Thu 7:45 am – 11:45 am/ 3:45 pm – 7:45 pm Fri 3:45 pm – 7:45 pm Habib Qatar International Exchange Pakistan 4432 8853 Sat – Thu 7:30 am – 11:45 am/ 4 pm – 8 pm Fri 4 pm – 7 pm

800 8555 barwabank.com 4425 3333 alrayan.com 4448 3333 qfb.com.qa 4484 0000 qiib.com.qa 4444 8444 qib.com.qa

Qatar-UAExchange 4498 4932 (City Center‑Doha) Sat – Thu 8:30 am – 10:30 pm Fri 8:30 am – 11:30 am/ 12:30 pm – 10:30 pm Western Union At all Doha Bank branches and exchange houses

4405 6666 qinvest.com 4496 7515

Banking and Finance

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 GCC 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.

wealth.barclays.com

Qatar remains fully committed to its currency peg to the US dollar and is not reviewing its currency policy, according to Central Bank governor Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani. Earlier in 2015 Qatar Central Bank’s director of research and monetary policy said that the GCC economies might need to rethink their monetary policies and the long‑term sustainability of their currency pegs to the dollar as Gulf and US economies diverged. Since then, however, several GCC central bank governors, including Qatar's, have ruled out any change to their pegs. ©

M63 BANKING AND FINANCE.indd 1

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353

6/28/15 12:13 PM


Motoring

Cars Tested This Issue

372

Main Car Showrooms

374

Useful Numbers

376

Motoring Essentials

380

Feature – News: Latest Car Dealer Laws

• • • •

Obtaining a Qatari Driving Licence • The Driving Test • Licences/Permits Licence Renewals, Vehicle Registrations and Fines • Metrash – SMS Service Driving on Qatar’s Roads • Traffic Accidents • Traffic Violations Weather Conditions • Petrol Stations and other services

Motoring

371

Some important rules have been introduced regarding the sale and description of cars sold in the country.

394

Feature – Salamtek

396

Traffic Violations: Point System

397

Main Dealer Service Centres

398

Map of Industrial Areas, Small Industries Zone

Learn about the Salamtek app that helps prevent distractions while driving. Early users of Salamtek can also win prizes!

The locations of major service centres and the Small Industries Zone

©

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369


A Closer Look at…

Six special cars featured in this issue 382

384

386

388

390

392

Honda Odyssey J

Chevrolet Impala LTZ

Porsche 911 Carrera

Audi A4 TFSI Quattro®

Nissan Juke

Volkswagen Jetta

©

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371


Main Car Showrooms

Main Car Showrooms

Doha Marketing Services Co. Khalifa Street, Lejbailat Zone (near TV roundabout) 4424 6800 domasco.com

Al Boraq Automobiles Co. Porsche Centre, Airport Street 4459 9666 porscheqatar.com

Jaidah Automotive Jaidah Flyover, Khalifa Street and Al Khor. Call toll free 800 0100, or 4463 8788 jaidahautomotive.com

Q-Auto LLC Salwa Road (Al Waab Zone) 800 2834 q-auto.com, audi-qatar.com

Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. Salwa Road 4428 3333 shalmana.com

Q-Auto LLC Salwa Road (Al Waab Zone) 4445 2365 q-auto.com, volkswagen-qatar.com

Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. Salwa Road 4428 3333 shalmana.com 372

M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

MARHABA

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Lancia 4444 4622 BMW, MINI 4420 8888 • Bentley 4411 4411 Cadillac, Subaru 4455 8713 Citroën 4436 1811 • Daihatsu 4463 7450 Ford, Lincoln 4448 9922 • GMC 4455 8053 Hyundai 4435 7117 • Infiniti, Nissan 4428 3333 Jaguar 4440 8490 • Jeep 4448 9933 KIA 4403 9444 • Land Rover 4447 7566 Mercedes‑Benz 4462 4444 Mitsubishi 4469 9665 • Peugeot 4448 9108 Renault 4428 3333 • Skoda 4468 8894 Suzuki 4462 0967 • Toyota, Lexus 4462 9321 Volvo 4424 6860


Oil, Gas & Petrochemical Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals

407

Qatar’s Oil Industry

409

Qatar’s Gas Industry

411

Qatar’s Petrochemical Industry

412

Feature – Shale Oil and Gas

415

The Global Perspective

www.woqod.com.qa

A contentious subject for some – but what is shale oil, and is fracking really as bad as it is being portrayed?

Company Activities • • • • • • • • •

Oil, Gas & Petrochemical

405

www.qp.com.qa

Qatar Petroleum • QP Industrial Cities Qatargas • RasGas • Qatar Fertiliser Company Qatar Petrochemical Co • Qatar Plastic Products Co Qatar Fuel Additives Co • Qatar Vinyl Co Qatar Chemical Co Ltd • Ras Laffan Operating Co ConocoPhilips • Exxonmobil Qatar Inc Maersk Oil Qatar AS • Oryx GTL Occidental Petroleum of Qatar Ltd • Sasol Shell Qatar • Total • WOQOD

©

Qatar’s Best BLOG! marhaba.qa

MARHABA

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401


Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals

www.qp.com.qa

An over view by Marhaba Oil and Gas correspondent Gina Coleman, using published information compiled from media sources (June 2015)

©

MARHABA

M63 AUTUMN 2015

Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals

The Global Perspective With oil prices having rebounded by over 30% since hitting a six-year low of USD45 a barrel in January, OPEC agreed in June to maintain unrestricted production levels for another six months. It set aside warnings of a further drop in prices, as members such as Iraq and Iran look to ramp up exports. OPEC’s next scheduled meeting is 4 December 2015. Officials saw little reason to change a policy that seems to have stimulated growth in world oil consumption and put a damper on the US shale boom. OPEC output has exceeded the group’s 30 million barrels per day (bpd) ceiling for most of the past year, reaching 31.2 million bpd in May, its highest in three years, according to a Reuters survey. Indonesia’s energy ministry said in June that his country will rejoin OPEC this year to forge a closer relationship with oil suppliers. I Gusti Nyoman Wiratmadja Pudja, Director-General of oil and gas at the ministry, said Indonesia will reactivate its membership in November. Meanwhile, according to analysts’ reports, Iran is planning to begin oil extraction from its giant offshore South Pars gas field in March 2016. It could also begin exporting natural gas to Europe as early as 2020 if sanctions are lifted. Iran’s official news agency, IRNA, and Shana news agency, quote South Pars oil layers project manager, Ali Reza Zeighami, as saying that the oil wells being drilled in the field are to become operational in Q3/4 2016, adding that seven wells have already been drilled. In the first phase, 20,000 to 35,000 barrels of oil are forecast to be recovered from the oil layer of South Pars. Iran has been exporting around 1 million bpd of oil and condensates under the existing sanctions, and said it was ready to double production within six months and significantly increase its exports

if nuclear talks, due for completion 30 June 2016, www.woqod.com.qa indeed lifted the sanctions. Iraq has meanwhile opened a new crude oil exportation system in Faw province with an 850,000 bpd capacity, to export through the southern ports in Basra. According to Iraq’s Deputy Oil Minister, that will raise Iraq’s export capability to more than 3 million bpd. He added that export capacity was expected to reach 6 million bpd by 2020. In June, the G7 called for a transformation of electricity generation towards clean sources by 2050, saying fossil fuel emissions should not be allowed in any sector of the economy by the end of the century. The non-binding targets are however a warning to investors that, in the long term, economies will have Qatar’s Best BLOG! to be powered by non-polluting energy. The long-awaited Development Plan for the Aphrodite marhaba.qa field, in Cypriot waters, was handed over in June, and officially submitted to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. The Announcement of Commerciality involves three partners, Noble Energy International Ltd, Delek Drilling Limited Partnership and Avner Oil Exploration Limited Partnership. All are holders of a Licence for the exploration of hydrocarbons in Block 12 of Cyprus’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). They propose building an independent floating production installation to produce 800 million cubic feet of natural gas per day (8 billion cubic feet per year). A gas pipeline from Cyprus to Egypt would also be laid. The Aphrodite gas field contains an estimated 4.54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 9 million barrels of condensate. If the proposal is approved by the Cyprus cabinet, a production permit would be issued. Production would likely commence in 2019 or 2020. Alternative to export, it has been estimated that gas from the Aphrodite field could meet Cyprus’s energy needs for up to 200 years. Egypt received its first LNG cargo from Australia in June. Egypt has emerged as a major new LNG market; falling output and rising demand have transformed it from an oil and gas exporter to a net importer. This year it secured USD2.2 billion worth of LNG, largely from European traders (Vitol, Noble Group, and Trafigura secured most of the volume). Negotiations with BP continue. The Egyptian Gas Holding Company has also signed deals to import 35 LNG cargoes from Gazprom Marketing & Trading and six from Algeria’s Sonatrach. m

405


Index Entries in bold indicate advertiser pages 2022 FIFA World CupTM

115

4G LTE

105

A Academic Health System

333

ACS School

272

Index

Ahlibank Inside front cover, 352 Aida

184

Airlines 50 Al Emadi Enterprises

96

Al Farkiya

69

Al Futtaim Rent A Car

375

Al Jazeera

94

Al Khor

32

Al Khor Hospital

331

Al Maha Children's Unit

330

354

ConocoPhillips

Currency and Exchange

353

Country Connections

Financial Services and Insurance

357

Islamic Banking

357

427 95

Courier Services

Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates

355

Offshore Banking

356

Qatar Central Bank

355

Qatar Credit Bureau

355

Barwa Village

196

106

Crowne Plaza Doha – The Business Park Currency

Barzan and Simaisma Parks 79 BBC World Service

94

Beaches

69

Beauty Salons

344

Belgravia Centre

281

Berlitz Language Centre

298

Bin Zaid (previously known as Fanar) 72

157 93, 355

D Darwish Travel

57

Dahl Al Hamam Park

79

Day to Day Qatar

93

Common Courtesies

93

Newspapers

94

Places of Worship

94

Public Wireless Internet

94

Telephone

94

Television and Radio

94

Death

107

Debs W Remman

126

ALRIWAQ Doha

73

Bird Watching

Al Ruwais

69

Birth Certificate

107

Demography of Qatar

11

Al Shaqab

82

Blood Donation

334

Desert Safaris

75

Al Sulaiman

373

75

Blood Type Certificate

99

DHL Express

Al Thakhira 69

British Council

90

Dhow Charters

Al Thani family 12

Busy Bees Nursery

Al Wakra

307

32, 70

Al Wakra Hospital

332

Al Zubara

67

Ambulance Service

332

Aqua Park

78, 91

Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses Arabian Adventures

300 77

Arabic Phrases

25

Arrivals/Departures

54

Aspire Park

79

Assaha Lebanese Village 173 Audi (Q‑Auto)

386, 387

Awsaj Academy

278

B

434

The Banking Sector

C

350 86

Dining Guide Listings

156

Around Town

172

Cafes/Lobby Lounges

176

Café Batteel

177

Clubs and Bars

170

Caffe Mokarabia

180

Fast Foods

182

Calls, International

94

Healthy Options; Katara 179

Calls, Local

94

Hotels

156

Camel Races

82

Souq Waqif

183

The Pearl‑Qatar

181

Dining in Qatar

153

Carnegie Mellon University 289 Churches Chevrolet (Jaidah)

94 388, 389

Cinemas City Center‑Doha Climate of Qatar

86 192 11

College of the North Atlantic Qatar 296, 297

Direct Real Estate

95

Documents, Translation

98

Doha British School Doha Bus

276

Bookmark, 66

Doha City Map

36

Commerce

359

Doha College

Banking and Finance

353

Compass Intl School

254

Doha Festival City

Accounts

356

Complementary Clinics

344

Doha's Corniche

79

Banks

353

Concorde Hotel Doha

124

Doha Film Institute

18

M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

M63 INDEX.indd 1

262 120

MARHABA

7/3/15 12:59 PM


Domestic Staff

99

Events Calendar

15

Do's and Don'ts

24

Evolution Sports

231

26

Dress Code

Hamad General Hospital

328

Hamad International Airport 51

Exit Permits

100

Driving License

376

ExxonMobil Qatar

427

Connectivity

55

License Renewals

377

Ezdan Hotel

138

Duty Free

56

Dr Eric Dental Clinic

320

Food and Beverage

56

F

Dr Tamim Dental Polyclinic 323 70

Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Center

Dukhan Industrial City

32

Family Residence Permit

Dukhan Road

43

Fibre TV

106

Fingerprinting

100

Fouj CafĂŠ

152

Dukhan

E eCash Cards

97

Economy

358

Economic Growth and GDP 358 Inflation and Cost of Living 358 Population and Labour Force

Foreign Embassies Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Lounges 328

30

Fuwairit Beach

305 70

358

G

The Budget and Surplus 358 Education Courses/Lectures 301

GAC

102

Education in Qatar

263

Gas Industry

409

Primary and Secondary

263

GEMS Education

273

Private Sector

271

Geography of Qatar

Public Sector

267

Qatar Foundation

287

Georgetown University

Qatar University

285

Geometric

School Facts

264

Getting Around Qatar

Special Needs

279

55

Medical Emergencies

99

142, 148

Fun First Nursery

51

56

Parking

51

The Airport Hotel

55

Travellers With Animals

56

Hamad International Training Centre

333

Health Cards

101

Healthcare in Qatar

322

Hamad Medical Corporation 327 Healthcare News

322

Primary Healthcare

324

Private Healthcare and New Developments

335

Supreme Council of Health 326 Health and Wellness

339

Holistic Wellness

339

Pilates

339

289

Yoga

339

297

Health Insurance Scheme 336

43

Healthcare Useful Numbers 321

Giggles Day Care

310

Dental and Optical Centres 321

Glow American Salon

342

HMC Hospitals

11

321

Specialised Curriculum Schools

280

Gold Souq

State Sector

285

Gondolania

92

Tertiary

282

Government Online

97

Primary Health Care Centres

321

University Campuses (QF) 289

Government of Qatar

12

Private Medical Centres

321

University Campuses

Grand Mosque

72

Pharmacies (24 hour)

321

Support Groups

321

Heart Hospital

331

High End Shopping

200

eGate Card

297 50, 100

Education Useful Numbers 257 Elder Tree Enaya Specialized Care Center

80, 198

Gulf English School

275

Gulf Warehousing Company 2

304

H 330

End of Service Benefits

98

English Modern School

255

ETC

114

Ministry of Public Health 321

History of Qatar

Hala

105

Hair Studio

346

Hotels

132

Deluxe Apartments

138

Five Star

132

Š

M63 INDEX.indd 2

11

Honda (Domasco)

Hamad Medical Corporation 84, 337, 349, 381

Index

Dr Sarah's Dental Centres 325

Arrivals/Departures

MARHABA

382, 383

M63 AUTUMN 2015

435

7/3/15 12:59 PM


Four Star

136

iParks

Standard Apartments

138

IPC Athletics

Three Star

136

Youth Hostels

138

Hours of Business

93

Index

Housing

103

Lawyers and Legal

103

Letting Agents

103

Living in Qatar

232

Exit Permits

97 100

Government Online

97

Health Related Services 101

J Jabal Al Jassassiya Petroglyphs

70

K

Housing

103

Identity Cards

101

Labour Law

98

Medical Procedures

99

Other Housing Considerations

103

Relocation Services/ Removal Firms

103

Karwa

To Buy

103

Katara Beach

70

Residence/Work Permit

To Rent

103

Katara

81

Utilities and Services

Hukoomi

97

I Identity Cards

101

I Spy Bookshop

253

Kahramaa

104

Pets

Kanga's Pouch Nursery

309

Register at Your Embassy 98

47, 51

Renew a Residence Permit 100

Katara Hospitality

7

109

Khazaz 106

Useful Documents/ Processing

Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)

Local Tour Companies

75

KIMS Qatar Medical Centre 320

Labour Law

98

115 121

Labour Relations Dept

98

Main Car Showrooms

Contractors

International School of London

269

International Relations

13

82

M

L

Infrastructure in Qatar

159

98 119

Maersk Oil

InterContinental Doha The City

98 104

Lusail City

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque 72

InterContinental Doha 151, 161

La Casa

127

406, 428 372

Main Urban Centres

32

Mandoub

98

11

Mannai Corporation

10

Leisure Activities

85

Maps

Arts and Crafts

85

Al Dafna (West Bay)

86

Al Khor and Al Thakira

34

La Cigale Hotel

150, 163

Language and Religion

Boat Trips and Fishing

35, 38

Internet Connections

105

Cinemas and Film Showings 86

Al Wakra

40

Investment and Trade

360

Clubs and Hobbies

86

Doha Central Area

39

Business Etiquette

363

Clubs – Recreational

87

Doha City

36

Choosing a Business Structure

360

Comedy

88

Education City/QF

295

Culinary

88

Dance

88

Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City

316

Debating and Public Speaking

Industrial Area

399

89

Infrastructure Projects

123

Drama

89

Mesaieed Industrial City

41

89

Northeast Coast

33

Commercial Registration 361 Company Structures

361

Import and Export

361

Incentives

360

Intellectual Property

362

Investment Regulations

360

Qatar Exchange

364

Qatar Financial Centre

364

Real Estate

365

Regulatory Bodies and Government Owned Entities 363 Taxation 436

78

M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

M63 INDEX.indd 3

362

Groups and Associations

Groups Seeking Volunteers 86

Qatar

Libraries

90

Small Industries Zone

398

Music

91

Souq Area

199

Parks and Play Zones

91

Southeast Coast

Liquor Permit

107

The Pearl‑Qatar

Little Genius Nursery

308

Marriage

6

42 201 107

MARHABA

7/3/15 12:59 PM


Mashreq Bank

New Port Project

Front cover spread,

31

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art

73

Medical Education

334

Medical Procedures

99

Mercure Grand Hotel

135

Mesaieed Road

45

120

Nobu

142

Public Holidays

93

390, 391

Public Libraries

90

Public Parks

78

Nissan

Nord Anglia Intl School Northwestern University

265

290, 299

Ministry of Interior

28, 97

Ministry of Labour

98

Public Wireless Internet Purple Island

O Oasis Car Rental

368

Offshore Banking

356

Oil and Gas Company Activities

415

94 68, 71

Q Qatar at a Glance

11

Climate

11

Demography

13 13

Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning (MMUP) 112

Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals Global Perspective 405

Economy Flag

12

Mirage International Property Consultants

Oil Industry

407

Geography

11

Ooredoo

105

Government

12

105

Oriental Carpet Co

204

History

11

311

Organ Donation

334

International Relations

13

376

Language and Religion

11

Ruling Family

12

Transport and Communication

13

92

Mobile Phone

Montezine Nursery Motoring Essentials

Driving Conditions

378

Oryx Farm (Al Maha Sanctuary)

Driving Licence

376

Oryx GTL

Driving Test

376

Oxy

Licence Renewals

377

Qatar Airways

Metrash

377

P

Qatar Central Bank

355

Petrol Stations

379

Palma Hospitality 128, 129, 179

Qatar Chemical Co Ltd

425

Traffic Accidents

278

Park House English School 270

Qatar Credit Bureau

355

Park View Pet Center

110

Qatar Duty Free

52, 56, 58

Pearling Season International School of Doha 250

Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies

288, 289

Motoring Useful Numbers 374

Perles D'Avenir Nursery

314

Mowasalat

44

Petrochemicals Industry

411

Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO)

410, 422

Mozaic TV+

105

Petrol Stations

380

Pets

109

Places to Stay

130

Traffic Violations

378, 396

Weather Conditions

379

Main Service Centres 397

Msheireb Downtown Doha Mulberry Bush Nursery Museum of Islamic Art

73, 119 313 73

N National Center for Cancer Care and Research 330

75 404, 428 429

Deluxe Service Apartments 140 Hotels

130

Standard Service Apartments

140

Youth Hostels

140

Porsche

384, 385

National Human Rights Committee Inside back cover, 98

Postal Services and Mail

106

Post Office

106

NES Global Talent

Post Office Boxes

106

414

48

Qatar Financial Centre Qatar Flag

364 12

Qatar Foundation

287

Qatar Foundation Universities

289

Qatar Fuel Additives 425, 433 Qatargas

421

Qatar International Adventures

64

Qatar International School 260 Qatar International Tours Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Š

M63 INDEX.indd 4

Index

104

335

Private Medical Insurance 101

79

Mineral Water, Home Delivery

324

Private Healthcare 266

Metrash 28, 97, 377 MIA Park

Primary Healthcare

Newton British Academy and Kindergartens

MARHABA

83 116

M63 AUTUMN 2015

437

7/3/15 1:00 PM


Qatar National Vision 2030 115 Qatar Olympic Committee

228

Qatar Online

26

Qatar Petrochemical Co 415, 423 Qatar Petroleum (QP) 416, 419 Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

14

Index

Qatar Plastic Products Co Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club

424

Sharaf DG Shell Qatar

74 188

408, 430

Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

145

Sherborne Qatar

256

Shopping in Qatar

189

Department Stores

195

Hypermarkets and Supermarkets

194

Qatar Rail 118

Malls

189

Qatar Television (QTV)

Souqs and Small Shops 189

82 94

Spas

340

Specialised Curriculum Schools

280

Sponsorship

98

Sports Activities

242

Badminton

242

Basketball

242

Billiards, Pool and Snooker 242 Bowling

242

Cricket

242

Cycling

243

Darts

243

Fencing

243

Fitness Classes

243

Qatar University

284

The Pearl‑Qatar

Qatar Vinyl Co

425

Wholesale Food Markets 196

Qatar Veterinary Centre

108

Shopping Numbers

186

Football

244

QP Industrial Cities

420

Sidra Medical and Research Center

Frisbee

244

335

Golf

244

Queen Medical

318

R

196

Sightseeing

65

Archaeological Sites, Forts and Ruins

67

Gyms and Fitness Centres 245 Hockey

245 245

Art and Photography

66

Horse Racing, Horse Riding, Camel Races

94

Beaches

69

Ice Hockey and Ice Skating 246

Ras Abrouq, Bir Zekreet 68, 71

Mosques

72

Kids Clubs

246

RasGas

Museums and Education Centres

Lawn Bowls

246

Martial Arts and Boxing

246

Multipurpose

246

Parks and Recreation Areas 78

Rugby

247

Souqs 80

Running and Walking

247

Things To Do

65

Sailing

247

Tradition and Tours

81

Singing Sand Dunes

76

Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

247

338

Spinning

247

101

Swimming

247

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

146, 165

Radio Stations

402, 422

Ras Laffan Power Co

426

Relocation Services/Firms 103 Residence Permit, Family

99

Residence Permit, Medical 99 Residence Permit, Renewal 100 Rising Stars Kindergarten 313 Roots Hair

343

Royal Plaza

184

Ruling Family

12

Rumailah Hospital

329

S Salwa Road

43

Sasol

400, 429

Satellite/Cable Providers

106

Sealine Beach Resort

70

Score Plus/Study Plus

261

Natural World And Nature Reserves

Six Senses Spa Doha SMART ID cards (SIDE)

80, 197

Tennis and Squash

248

82, 198

Trampolining

249

Souq Abdullah Al Sadah 198

Volleyball

249

Souq Al Asiery

249

Souq Al Dira

198

Souq Al Jabor

198

Sports Events Calendar 233

Souq Faleh

198

Sports in Qatar

230

Souq Waqif

197

Federations

230

Olympic Committee

230

Venues

230

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

M63 INDEX.indd 5

198

Watersports and Marine Sports

Shahry

M63 AUTUMN 2015 ©

75

Gold Souq

Souq Waqif, Al Wakra

105

73

Souqs

SEK International School 277 Sharq Village & Spa 134, 149 438

Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum

80 139

MARHABA

7/3/15 1:00 PM


U

Starfish Lane Kids

307

Step by Step

259

UCL Qatar

St. Regis Doha

167

Umm Tais National Park

Summit Academy

253

University Campuses 289, 297

Furnishing

186

University of Calgary Useful Numbers

298

Gifts and Souvenirs

186

Education

253

Jewellery and Watches

186

Healthcare

321

Motoring

376

Shopping

Superhighways

43

Route 1 Al Shamal Road

43

Route 3 Dukhan Road

43

Route 5 Salwa Road

43

Route 7 Mesaieed Road

43

Supreme Council of Health 326 Sydney Rent a Car

370

T Tarsheed

Back cover, 8

Tajmeel

283, 343

Taxi/Limousine Services

47

TEK

306

Telephone and Internet

105

Television and Radio

94

Television Services

106

Utilities and Services

76

Chocolates and Sweets

186

DIY

186

Florists

186

Key Cutting/Shoe Repair 186 Kitchenware

186

187

Musical Equipment

187

104

Opticians

187

Birth, Marriage and Death 109

Oriental Crafts and Carpets 187

Courier Services

108

Personal Care/Pharmacies 187

Gas Cylinders

104

Liquor Permit

109

Photographic Studios/ Photographers 187

Postal Services and Mail

108

Sports Equipment

187

Telephone and Internet

109

Water and Electricity

104

Tailoring, Textiles and Haberdashery

187

V Vaccinations

101

VCUQatar

286, 292

Toys and Children's Items 187 Water Storage Tanks

187

WOQOD Petrol Stations

187

What's On (Hotels)

146

Texas A&M University 290, 291

Visas

49

Four Seasons Hotel, Doha 148

The Cuban Hospital

332

Entry

50

InterContinental Doha

151

The French Olive

154

On Arrival

49

La Cigale

150

The Gulf English Nursery

315

Things to Avoid

49

Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha 146

The Hair Studio

346

Vision International School 274

Sharq Village & Spa

149

The Ritz-Carlton, Doha

133

Vodafone Qatar

Wyndham Grand Regency Hotel

147

111

Wholesale Food Market

196

The Westin Hotel

128

Wills

107

The Village

155

Walk‑in/Pediatric

Women's Hospital

329

Total Gas

431

Emergency Centers

WOQOD

432

Tourism in Qatar

129

Warwick Hotel 132

Working Hours

98

378, 396

Water and Electricity

106

Working Woman Permit

99

49

Water Tank Cleaning

106

Workplace Disputes

98

Airlines

50

Work Residence Permit

98

eCash Cards

50

Weill Cornell Medical College

eGate Cards

50

Travel Agencies

50

Visas

49

The Pearl-Qatar The Vet Surgery

Traffic Violations Traveller Information

Treehouse Nursery

80

312

105

Volkswagen (Q-Auto) 392, 393

W 333

292, 293

Where to Shop

186

Audio Visual/ Computers/Electronics

186

Bookshops/Stationery and Art Supplies

186

Wyndham Grand Regency Hotel

©

M63 INDEX.indd 6

Index

Supreme Education Council 267

290, 294

MARHABA

147, 169

M63 AUTUMN 2015

439

7/3/15 1:00 PM


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