Qatar Happening March 2023

QATAR'S PREMIER SPORT/LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

WEISHAUPT SCORES TOP POSITION IN FIRST LGCT GRAND PRIX OF THE SEASON

INFLATARUN DOHA 2023: THE ULTIMATE FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR EVENT IS HERE!

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

MARCH 2023

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A TIME FOR ACTION AND REFLECTION

With the advent of March, there is less chill in the air and which has given give way to warm afternoons but we’ll still be in a comfortable zone, relatively speaking. As for the fare, March will see plenty of action and, later in the month, we’ll be readying to welcome Ramadan.

Talking of action, it will be led by the exciting InflataRUN 2023 – please see details on Pages 24-25 – which is a no brainer for its indulgent family fun. On the sport scene, we review last month’s Qatar ExxonMobil Open and Qatar TotalEnergies Open. This month the Legends League Cricket will add more sheen to the country’s rising stock in the world of sport on the heels of the epoch-making FIFA World Cup.

In this issue, we have a special tribute section on Mother’s Day where five influencer moms bring out the essence of a mother’s tireless efforts, nurturing spirit, and unwavering support that shapes us into the people we are today. Qatar Happening wants this day to be a reminder of how much mothers are loved and appreciated, not just today, but every day.

As Ramadan approaches, we have the bases covered for you with a listing of all the Ramadan offers in the food section, but also a word to the wise on intermittent fasting. Overall, we shouldn’t forget the spirit of Ramadan, which is one of cleansing the soul, exercising patience, expressing solidarity with the less privileged and of sharing and giving.

Don’t forget to go out walking, looking after your fitness and reading. And for those fasting, to be kind to yourself with how much you consume at and after Iftar!

ON THE COVER

March 2023

MANAGING EDITORS

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ART DIRECTOR

Asad Chughtai

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Rabshan Malik

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Glenda Sampang

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“NEVER EXPECTING TO WIN”

WEISHAUPT SCORES TOP POSITION IN FIRST LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR GRAND PRIX OF THE SEASON

This is a very, very special moment. Winning a Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix is special but even more so with this young mare. We always put our best horses in the league so we won that which was already incredible, so, to put this one in the Grand Prix I was never expecting to jump clear let alone win. These unexpected wins are the nicest ones so I am over the moon right now.

Philipp Weishaupt

With the first Golden Ticket to the GC Prague Playoff’s in 2023 awarded, Philipp Weishaupt secured an impressive victory in the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha after stealing the show with Riesenbeck International in the GCL. Presented by HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President, Qatar Olympic Committee, the trophies were received with a rousing applause and standing ovation from all in attendance elevated the incredible atmosphere felt throughout the weekend.

39 riders started in the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha, and in a true display of the level of both horses and riders on the Longines Global Champions Tour, over 12 combinations took to the arena in round 2. In a fairytale ending to a week rocked with emotion, 11 years since his last LGCT Grand Prix Win, it all came together for Weishaupt on a mare that had never jumped even jumped a 2* Grand Prix in her life. “This is a very, very special moment. Winning a Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix is special but even more so with this young mare. We always put our best horses in the league so we won that which was already incredible, so, to put this one in the Grand Prix I was never expecting to jump clear let alone win. These unexpected wins are the nicest ones so I am over the moon right now.”

He went on to add: “It is a very special moment, the nicest story in this whole situation is when we have one down like what happened with Ludger's accident; it could not have happened in a better place. We felt like the whole country of Qatar was helping us, the hospital was amazing and he almost felt like he was at home.”

Omar Al Mannai, Event Director spoke of the competitive nature of the Longines Global Champions Tour, particularly at the season opener in Doha: “Always the Longines Global Champions Tour expectation is really high, you never know who can win. We are very glad to host this event for the past 16 years. It has been a tough Grand Prix but the three winners did a great job and it has once again been an exciting competition.”

In what looked like a rocky start to Round 1, clear rounds started to flow. A dramatic, fast and exhilarating jump off resulted in 7 double clear rounds over the challenging but jumpable Uliano Vezzani built track.

Entering the Jump Off First was Qatar’s Rashid Towaim Ali Al Marri. With the home-crowd on their feet, the pressure was felt and an unfortunate two rails fell, leaving room for the proceeding 11 riders to take to the arena.

Hans-Dieter Dreher aboard Elysium produced the first of the double clears, setting the bar for those tofollow. Maikel Van der Vlueten had the crowd holding their breaths, but an unfortunate rail at the last fence.

Enter: Philipp Weishaupt and Just Be Gentle. Tight corners and quick lines saw the duo fly into the lead, 1.5 seconds ahead of leader Dreher.

Next saw leading lady rider Malin Bayard-Johnsson and H&M Indiana, 2022’s highest performing horse on the GCL tour, leave it all on the line, just 0.28 seconds behind Weishaput.

Smolders, Devos, Delestre and Kukuk – the final four. A potential podium in itself, it was all to play for. A fast 4 for Smolders. An uncharacteristic rail from Devos and Moms Toupie De La Roque. Delestre’s speedy clear putting him just 0.09 behind Weishaupt.

An on-fire Kukuk and Nice Van’t Zorgvliet then entered the arena as the crowd fell silent. 0.04 seconds behind. Weishaupt wins.

Following the thrilling final showdown of the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of Doha, Founder and President of Global Champions, Jan Tops, commented on the top level of sport seen at Al Shaqab and impressive growth of support in the region: “With the new changes having 40 horses in the class you see even more excitement. You have to really go for it to win a class like this. We started in Qatar over 10 years ago with just a few hundred people and now we have full grandstands. The growth in the sport here and on TV is huge.”

The third and final day of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Doha saw spectacular competition, enthralling entertainment for the entire family and top-tier hospitality. Coupled with the architectural spectacle of Al Shaqab’s Longines Arena, spectators in attendance got behind the top riders performing across both the 3* and 5* classes. With Her Excellency Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani in attendance, competitors really put on a show.

The 3* 1.50m Grand Prix was taken out by Khalid Mohammed A S Al Emadi and his impressive mount Little Lord Pezi 2. Speaking of his victory, he commented on international shows making a return to Doha. “Today was the last day of a very successful two weeks, the 3* CHI show and the Global Champions show. Having these international shows on our ground is absolutely phenomenal.”

Challenged by an Ulliano Vezzani built course, and sealing the win for Qatar, he went on to say: “The height of the fences was so big, I was the first rider to have a clear round for the first round, and then opened the door for the other two riders. I was first to go in the last round, I have done my best, I went fast, and in the end I won the class. I would congratulate all of my colleagues, the Qatari’s, the people who organised this absolutely amazing show.”

As the curtain falls on the 2023 season opener, the Longines Global Champions Tour of Doha, which was a rousing success with the contribution of the entire team partnered with an army of volunteers, all eyes look ahead to leg two, the LGCT of Miami Beach, where riders and spectators alike are treated to one of the most iconic stops on tour. n

IGA SWIATEK TAKES QATAR BY STORM

THE WORLD NUMBER ONE CAME, SAW AND CONQUERED THE QATAR TOTALENERGIES OPEN FIELD FOR THE SECOND TIME IN SUCCESSION

IGA Swiatek had a memorable 2022 season in which she won two Grand Slams and six other tournaments. She produced a 37-match winning streak that started in Doha where she won the Qatar TotalEnergies Open title for the first time. From February until July last year, she was unbeatable on any surface she played on. The 21-year-old Warsaw-born repeated her Doha show when she dropped only five games in the entire tournament and sailed to her second Falcon Trophy. Moments before receiving the winner's trophy, three-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek said: "It's really a great event and I always enjoy coming back here. And I think I hope, you know, playing well here is going to become a routine or something."

Playing well in Doha in 2023 - like she did last year - could it also mean she could run through opponents this year as well? The way her game has developed over the last 12 months, nobody would be willing to bet against her not doing well this season as well.

Here are excerpts from a chat with her after she won the Falcon Trophy, $120,707 and 497 points.

Question: Congratulations, Iga. Another wonderful week in Doha. What's your magic secret?

SWIATEK: Wow. I honestly don't know. I just feel really happy I could adjust quickly to the conditions. I was surprised that I was kind of using the wind the proper way. I'm really happy that I could find more balance compared to how I felt at the beginning of the season. I think this tournament is going to give me a lot of confidence, but still, I want to take everything step by step. I'm just really happy that I could win this match today.

Q: Jessica Pegula was just here saying she was really surprised at how accurate your forehand was despite the wind and the huge topspin. Were you also surprised, or how did you make it happen?

SWIATEK: I would say it kind of hit me that even though it was windy I could use the wind properly and kind of use my intuition to sometimes imagine that I should play shorter, or on the other hand, play with more topspin so the wind is going to kind of take this ball even further. So today (in the final) I just kind of continued that, but I didn't really want to overanalyze that. I just played how my intuition told me. It's nice, because usually I like basing everything on my tactics and on the technique that I'm working on. But here I felt like I could just reset that and play more freely without overthinking. Yeah, I'm pretty happy with how my forehand worked. We have been kind of also focusing on it after Australia, so, yeah, it's great.

Q. Do you think you have played your best tennis of the season?

SWIATEK: I don't know. Honestly, it's hard to compare, because in Australia we played on such fast surfaces that I knew that I'm gonna have a little bit less control there. But for sure, this is the tournament where I felt the most comfortable and where I felt

that I can easily kind of transfer all these things that I worked on during practices to matches. But I had some quality matches in Australia. It was just different conditions, so it's kind of hard to compare.

Q. You said at the beginning of the week that you had to lower your expectations because you knew that you couldn't play perfectly every time. That's a strange way to prove it, because this week you were amazing.

SWIATEK: Yeah, but it happens because I managed to lower the expectations and I told myself before every match that the conditions are tricky, the tournament is so packed that I don't have to expect from myself that I'm gonna play magnificent tennis. But then I felt better and better on court. I didn't really come back to these thoughts. I just really enjoyed playing. Every game I was really focused and that's the thing I'm most happy about, because at the beginning of the season

I felt like my mind was kind of flying away sometimes. But here, the work we have put in with my coach on court and with Daria off the court, for sure, it just paid off, and I felt like everything is clicking.

Q. I was wondering what kind of music you were listening to when you went on court? Do you have any routine, exercises that you do to stay present, like meditation or something like that?

SWIATEK: I do meditation. I don't think there is time on court to use it, so usually it's just breathing or I just focus on, like, two details technically that I want to do, and it keeps me busy from thinking about other stuff or thinking about technical things that can mess up with my head. So I have and I'm using that. And music also is helpful. I usually like singing the same song in my head. Before the match I also use that to kind of get more energy. I think today was the same as usual, AC/DC and Led Zeppelin.

• Coached by Tomasz Wiktorowski. Previously worked with Piotr Sierzputowski

• Father is former Olympic rower Tomasz Swiatek, who competed in the men's quadruple sculls event at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul

• Last summer organised 'Iga Swiatek and friends for Ukraine' event in Krakow, which featured a mixed doubles match between Agnieszka Radwanska, Sergiy Stakhovsky, Polish junior Martyn Pawelski and herself, and was attended by Poland's First Lady, Agata Kornhauser-Duda, Elina Svitolina and Andriy Shevchenko. The occasion was watched by almost 15,000 people live and a further one million on television, raising more than half a million Euros for Ukrainian children and teenagers affected by the war

• Started playing tennis because her older sister was playing and wanted to beat her. Enjoys rock music, including AC/DC and Pink Floyd Includes PZU, ASICS, Tecnifibre, Rolex and Xiaomi in her endorsement portfolio

Q. You broke a record that belonged to Chris Evert, more than 40 years old, with your only five games you lost in this tournament. What does that mean to you?

SWIATEK: Well, a lot, but on the other hand, when I was playing, I didn't really think about that (smiling). So it's not like I wanted to achieve that, but for sure it shows that I used my chances, all my chances that I had during this tournament to put pressure on my opponents and to break them. I am just happy that I was so efficient. And, sorry, Chris. It (the new record) is also because basically I had a bye (in the first round), and Belinda (Bencic) pulled out (their quarter-finals), so I had a little bit easier situation to do it, but I'm still proud of it, so I'm happy.

Q. Just to get back about what you said about your focus flying away a little bit, were you surprised when it happened or did you feel it coming in the offseason? Is it something that's been happening regularly or was it more of a shock of why is it happening now?

SWIATEK: Well, on one hand, I wasn't surprised, because I got this feeling a lot of times last season, but I was more surprised at the beginning of the season that I felt like a little bit more of anxiety and everything. I guess during the preseason I had a lot of time to kind of look back and reflect on everything, so everything kind of hit me a little bit more. But I really put in a lot of work, and Daria helped me to reset after Australia and remind myself that I don't need all that baggage and I can just focus on other stuff which are going to help me feel more free on court. And, yeah, I wasn't surprised, but on the other hand, it's sometimes tricky because it's clicking in your head and you don't even know when it's gonna happen. Of course I wish it wouldn't happen at the Australian Open, but I'm happy that I'm at that state right now, and hopefully I'm going to continue doing that. But you never know. So I'm going to keep my expectations low still (smiling). n

• In 2022, lifted second and third Grand Slam titles, at Roland-Garros (d. Gauff in F) and US Open (d. Jabeur in F)

• Triumph in Paris was the last of six straight titles during 37-match winning streak - joint-longest unbeaten run on Tour since 1990

• Won two titles in 2021, at Adelaide and Rome. Other highlights included QF at Roland-Garros and SF at Ostrava and qualifying for WTA Finals Guadalajara (fell in group stage) Also finished doubles R-Up at 2021 RolandGarros (w/Mattek-Sands, l. Krejcikova/Siniakova)

• Won her maiden Tour-level title at 2020 Roland Garros without dropping a set, becoming the first player from Poland - man or woman - to win a Grand Slam singles title and first from her country to reach a major final since A.Radwanska at 2012 Wimbledon

• Ranked No.54, she became the lowest-ranked woman to win the Roland Garros title in the Open Era and the lowest-ranked finalist since 1977 (No.56 Mihai). At 19y 132d, is the youngest champion in Paris since Monica Seles (18y 187d) in 1992

• Also became the first player to win her debut Tour-level title at a Grand Slam since Jelena Ostapenko at 2017 Roland-Garros

• Won WTA Most Improved Player of the Year for 2020, as voted on by members of the media. Also won the 2020 WTA Fan Favorite Award

• Ended 2019 season ranked No.61 after a campaign highlighted by R-Up finish at Lugano (l. Hercog) and R16 run at Roland-Garros (l. Halep). That year also reached 3r at Toronto (l. Osaka) and made 2r five times (incl. Australian and US Open)

• Broke into Top 100 at No.88 after R-Up finish at 2019 Lugano

• Made WTA qualifying debut at 2019 Auckland

• Ended 2018 season ranked No.175 (up from No.690 in 2017), after posting 42-6 record and winning four titles on ITF Circuit

• Member of Poland's Billie Jean King Cup team, 2018-20, 2021-22

• On professional debut, came through qualifying to win title at $10k ITF/ Stockholm-SWE in 2016; owns seven singles titles at this level

• Enjoyed stellar junior career, including winning girls' singles at 2018 Wimbledon (d. Küng in F) and leading Poland to Junior Fed Cup in 2016

MEDVEDEV MAKES IT MEMORABLE, LIFTS FALCON TROPHY AT FIRST ATTEMPT

RUSSIAN TENNIS STAR

DANIIL MEDVEDEV

ARRIVED IN DOHA AS THE MAN TO BEAT AT THE US$ 1.4 MILLION QATAR

EXXONMOBIL OPEN. AFTER SIX DAYS OF INTENSE BATTLES, THE 2021 US OPEN CHAMPION BROKE BRITISH HEARTS WITH HIS WIN OVER ANDY MURRAY IN AN EXCITING FINAL WATCHED BY A CAPACITY CROWD AT THE KHALIFA TENNIS AND SQUASH COMPLEX.

AT times he looks unassuming. On other occasions, he seems uninterested. Give him a tennis racket and that's when Daniil Medvedev morphs into this giant that he has become in the last three-four years. The 27-year-old Russian from Moscow put a stop to Andy Murray's brilliant run at this year's Qatar ExxonMobil Open final just when it seemed the Briton would go on to win his third Falcon Trophy. Playing a controlled game from the baseline, the 1.98m (6’6”) Russian won the title clash 6-4, 6-4 and took home a hefty paycheck of US$209,445 and 250 points that got added to his rankings tally for the rest of the season.

After bagging his 17th career title win, Medvedev candidly admitted that he had a tough time battling Murray - winner in Doha in 2008 and 2009 - and the windy conditions that had engulfed the Qatari capital on the day of the final. "To be honest, every time you get a title, you feel great and you feel like this winning feeling is back, you (feel) can get even bigger titles, even bigger wins. But that's all about confidence and confidence can go really fast, it can go away really fast with one loss. So I feel great right now at the moment. I have a tournament to play next week, so it will be a new week, a new challenge, and then we go to the USA, the other part of the world, jet lag, everything. Right now I'm feeling great, and I want to try to continue feeling this way," Medvedev said after the final against Murray.

The Russian explained why though the final was a tough battle. "It was a very tough match. I think it was a little bit more windy (on the day of the final). So both of us were struggling to find the rhythm on my second serve. Sometimes the ball is moving in the air. I can say now that the tournament is over - I think these balls are not good for hardcourts. They changed something this year and I don't like them. I heard a lot of players are struggling with shoulders, elbows and wrists. I myself had wrist problems in Australia, so generally I think I was struggling all week (in Doha) to find the perfect rhythm with these balls, but I'm happy to win."

Medvedev said the issue about the balls hasn't been talked about in detail. "I haven't talked (to any ATP official). I talked a little bit to the supervisor, but the thing is that I wonder what other players think. You're not going to be in the locker coming to every other player asking about the balls," he said. "Maybe if people are going to start asking them, maybe finally I'm going to be the only one arguing about the balls, and then that's just my problem. If there are going to be 15 players that come out and say, Yeah, I feel the same, then it's a problem of the balls. I'm just going to wait and see what happens when other players get asked this question."

After beating an opponent who is 35, Medvedev said he couldn't be considered a newbie on the ATP Tour. "Talking about new generation vs old generation, well, I'm 27, so I don't think I'm any more new generation. I could be considered in the medium segment (smiles). So yeah, I was just happy to see Andy on the other side of the net because he's such a legend. Every time I play against him or Novak (Djokovic) and Rafa (Nadal), it's just an amazing feeling. It's an amazing atmosphere all the time. I was happy to share this final with him. The way he played there, the way he won his matches, is just unbelievable. I don't think anyone could have thought about it when it was 5-4, 40-Love (against Jiri Lehecka in the semi-finals)."

The new Qatar champion said he is likely to come back to Doha and defend his title next year. "I think it's very much possible. You never know, because the

thing about this part of the season is it's either you decide to go to Mexico or you stay in Europe and then you play Doha, Dubai. I liked it in Mexico also. I liked it here. So I tend to change things up all the time just trying different things. I like to discover new conditions, new countries. So I'm definitely gonna be back in Qatar. I don't promise it's going to be exactly next year, but this is very possible. Right now I cannot announce it 100%, but I liked it here. I won here. That's a good memory. So there is a good possibility I'm going to be back." Medvedev said he loved his time in Doha. "I felt good in Doha. Unfortunately, because I came after winning the title in Rotterdam, I had no time to visit the city, maybe some restaurants. When you come here before the tournament, like three, four days to prepare, you have time to discover. I had absolutely zero time to discover. I will be honest, I haven't seen much of the city, but the tournament is great. From what I saw from the window of the car, the city looks nice. I only heard good things about this tournament from other players before. Happy to have my experience here, and only good emotions. Nothing bad to say. I like it very much. Great hotel. You know, transportation is good. What else can I say? Food is good. A lot of courts to practice. Great lounge. I don't think tournaments need a lot to be good, but the small things that I mentioned are quite important for players. I think some players like hotels more, some players like practice courts

more, but everything is good here. Everybody told me all the time that it's a great organization here, but I didn't have the chance to come because of the calendar, different reasons. I liked it here."

When reminded that he has been a finalist twice at the Australian Open and the champion at the US Open, Medvedev refused to say which Grand Slams were his favourite. "Roland Garros and Wimbledon are great tournaments too. When I'm asked about my favorite Grand Slam, I don't really have an answer. I won the US Open (2021), but I can't really say that this is my favorite Slam. I like all of them. They are all great to play. I want to achieve big results in all of them. Definitely in terms of my game, I think the US Open suits me the best but every year the balls are changing, surfaces are changing, so I never know when I'm 35 what I'm going to say." And his goals for the 2023 season? He said: "To play my best tennis like I'm doing right now. I'm really happy. Two finals. Of course I want to do better than I did last year in the 1000s and the Grand Slams. But it's not easy. Everyone you face is gonna try to beat you, try to play good. People start to know how to play you. So you have to change all the time, try to adapt also. So my goal is to show my best tennis, which I was, for whatever reason, sometimes not able to do last year, and I know when I show my best tennis I'm dangerous for everyone, and that's when I can get good results." n

AGELESS MURRAY WINS HEARTS WITH INCREDIBLE DOHA RUN

ANDY MURRAY OF GREAT BRITAIN IS A FAMILIAR FACE FOR TENNIS FANS IN DOHA. THE 35-YEAR-OLD MANAGED TO REACH HIS FIFTH SINGLES FINAL AGAINST DANIIL MEDVEDEV OF RUSSIA AT THE US$ 1.4 MILLION QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN WHERE HE DELIVERED MEMORABLE WINS TO REACH THE TITLE CLASH.

ANDY Murray is one of the senior pros on the ATP Tour. But at age 35, he is still giving his younger rivals a run for their money. He did exactly that at last month's Qatar ExxonMobil Open where he entered the field on a wildcard. Not many thought he would go all the way to the final but he did. With mum Judy watching from the stands, Murray reeled off wins against Lorenzo Sonego of Italy, Alexander Zverev of Germany, Alexandre Muller of France and Jiri Lehecka of the Czech Republic before losing to Daniil Medvedev of Russia in the final.

"Yeah, it was an incredible week. Obviously I didn't finish how I wanted. I had some amazing matches here,

created some great memories and yeah, fantastic to be back in a final year again and again against an incredible player in the final. Daniil is one of my favourite players to watch and one of the best players on the Tour. It was great for me to get that opportunity to play against someone of his level and a final again and definitely some things for me to work on but I'm proud of my week and the work that me and my team have put in to get me back to this stage," Murray said after getting the runners-up trophy for the third time in Doha.

"I made a few more mistakes than what I would have hoped for. I got off to bad starts in both sets, which obviously doesn't help. Most top players play well when they're ahead. I gave him the opportunity to do that by not starting well enough in the two sets," the Briton said. The three-time Grand Slam champion said he has set himself goals in the 2023 season.

"I have goals. I think it's important to have goals and targets and some of those goals are different to maybe what they were five, ten years ago. But I still have ambitions of winning tournaments and having deep runs in major events, winning a certain number of matches in my career. I'd like to try to get to 800 match wins (he has 723 currently), which, I don't know, I think I'm like 75 away from that. There are little things that you can do to keep yourself motivated. Also part of it is seeing how far I can go with the physical limitation that I have. Like I didn't know how much I was going to be able to play or if I'd be able to compete at this level again," Murray said. "So now that I know that I'm able to, I want to see how far that can go because it's a challenge and something that I'm proud of the results that I'm having with a large physical limitation."

Murray candidly admitted that Daniil Medvedev remains a tough player to beat. "He has a different game style to how most players play now. Obviously some players return from quite far behind the baseline, but I think he's probably the furthest and does that consistently. Most players might return there sometimes but change the position a little bit, but he returns from very far back. Most of the players that

do this are returning and playing with a lot of topspin. He does the opposite. He hits the ball very low and flat over the net, which is different. He also often, like when the ball comes through the middle of the court, I think pretty much maybe there is only one or two players, like Benoit Paire maybe does this where they run around the forehand to hit backhands, but it's rare to see that. Most players are looking to play with their forehand in the middle of the court and play with a sort of heavy topspin to push you behind the baseline, whereas he is moving the other way and hitting the ball very low and flat," Murray explained. "He doesn't hit the ball extremely hard, so often you're working with not so much pace on the ball. You have to generate the power. But because he moves extremely well, it's difficult to finish the points against him. One of the ways of doing it is by coming up to the net when you get the chance. It's not so easy to pass from very deep in the court, but in the final he did a pretty good job of that. He came up with some really good passing shots at times, and I maybe came in on some of the wrong balls. He just has a different game style to most of the guys, and he's a great athlete as well. He moves extremely well," he added, Murray said he felt fine physically despite playing draining matches en route to the final. "Actually I felt okay

physically. After some of the long rallies, you know, my legs at times were feeling a little bit heavy, but I felt okay physically. That's the one thing thing I am reflecting on now, I didn't feel like I used the crowd as much as I could have done, or after the good points, like, had maybe as much energy as I have in sort of recent times and probably wish I had done that a little bit more, because I feel like when I'm expressing myself like emotionally like that's when I play my best tennis. So maybe part of it was because I was always sort of behind. I didn't have so much momentum in the match. But, yeah, probably (I) could have done that better. But physically, considering everything, I was quite happy with how I felt," Murray said. "So at my age and with some of the issues that I've got, I do have to be mindful of those things (playing five matches in six days), and I can't just just keep going until something happens.I need to be a bit smarter with that."

Murray dismissed Medvedev's concern over balls used in Doha. "Oh, really? I didn't hear that," Murray said when reminded that Medvedev complained about the balls. "I think they are the same balls that we were using at the Australian Open. When they're new they are extremely fast, but very quickly they become very slow. They are the same as we have been playing the last couple of months. Generally on tour now we play with very slow conditions and slow tennis balls, so it's nothing new," he said.

Did Murray expect to reach the final before coming to Doha? Murray said: "That's a difficult question. I knew I was playing well. I had been practicing very well. The two weeks before coming here I was feeling good on the court. I told that to my team, and also when I was talking with the guys I was practicing with that I was feeling good about my game. This week we could have ended very differently, as well. I was match points down in the first round. You know, could have lost against Zverev. Could have lost against Lehecka as well. But the way that I have played in the really important moments, in the critical moments, has shown that there is a confidence there and a belief in my game that's been missing for a while. I'm really happy about that." n

ACTION-PACKED SENIOR ARAB JUDO CHAMPIONSHIP REACHES ITS CONCLUSION

Qatar successfully hosted the Senior Arab Judo Championship at Ali bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena with an exciting two days of competition over the weekend. The Championship was utilized as a test event for the World Judo Championships – Doha 2023, which will take place at the same venue from May 7-14. Salha Al-Badi secured a silver medal for Qatar in the women’s 57kg category. Other Qatari judokas in action were Mohamed Rabahi (81kg), Khalil Rabahi (81kg), Rida Almarri (100kg), Fatina Bouqehous (52kg), and Kholoud al-Kuwari (78kg). The event also attracted entrants from Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Djibouti, Bahrain, Morocco, Algeria, Iraq, Tunisia, Kuwait, Syria, and Lebanon.

WINNERS:

Men

60kg: Adel Hamada (Egypt)

66kg: Abderrahmane Boushita (Morocco)

73kg: Houd Zourdani (Algeria)

81kg: Askerbii Gerbekov (Bahrain)

90kg: Omar El Ramly (Egypt)

100kg: Zelimkhan Yakub (Bahrain)

+100kg: Mohamed Lili (Algeria)

Women

48kg: Noura Salem (Egypt)

52kg: Faiza Aissahine (Algeria)

57kg: Soumiya Iraoui (Morocco)

63kg: Taibi Chaimae (Morocco)

70kg: Souad Bellakehal (Algeria)

78kg: Louiza Ichallal (Algeria)

+78kg: Nermine Graoua (Algeria)

TOP 10 EVENTS OF THE MONTH

The March calendar inspires residents to enjoy the cool outdoors with two different food-themed festivals, a vibrant line-up of performances and many more family-friendly activities.

Qatar Happening takes a look at the fare:

COFFEE, TEA & CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL 2023 (MARCH 2-11)

This year, the Coffee, Tea & Chocolate Festival provides a platform for local business and entrepreneurs to showcase their finest offerings. Enthusiasts and foodies alike can indulge in a variety of specialty coffee, tea blends and delicious desserts at Al Bidda Park.

INFLATARUN (MARCH 9-18)

It is a unique family event in Qatar incorporating all-day FUN for the family. The World’s Longest and Largest Inflatable courses and party comes with a Live DJ, dancing, roaming and stage performances, photo ops, carnival booths, and a massive monster truck inflatables display. Details on Pages 24-25

PAW PATROL FESTIVAL (MARCH 2-18)

The first-ever PAW Patrol Festival is taking place at Place Vendome for a one-of-a-kind show. Brought by EventBox in partnership with Qatar Tourism and Nickelodeon, families can celebrate the globally loved PAW Patrol franchise with hours of interactive and familyfriendly fun. The festival will offer visitors a fully immersive experience, including stage shows, kids’ and family activities, meet and greet with the PUPS, photo opportunities and more.

QUMRA 2023 (MARCH 10-15)

Qumra 2023 is an annual talent incubator event, hosted by the Doha Film Institute. The event is designed to foster a collaborative environment and bring together established figures in the film industry with emerging filmmakers from the region and beyond. With an integrated focus on promoting Qatar’s homegrown talent, it has become one of the sector’s most anticipated events with rewarding masterclasses, screenings and workshops.

FIP PROMOTION, QTF (MARCH 13 – 19)

Organised by the International Padel Federation, FIP Rise Doha is headed to Al Sadd Stadium for an exciting competition. The racket sport has gained massive popularity in the region, drawing in fans of all ages to witness the action.

QATAR INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL (QIFF) (MARCH 11-21)

In its 12th year, the QIFF is a celebration of the global diversity in food and beverage offerings that can be found in Qatar. With chef appearances, live cooking demonstrations and food stalls from prominent and up-and-coming businesses, QIFF promises to be abuzz with activity this year at the Plaza, Lusail.

CIRCUS 1903 (MAR 10- MAR 18)

Circus Marvel, magic and beyond!

Step into a world of extravaganza and entertainment with the acclaimed Circus 1903 at the Abdul Aziz Nasser Theater.

SHOP QATAR 2023 (ONGOING TILL MARCH 18)

Shop Qatar is Qatar’s largest shopping extravaganza. It fetches the best of retail brands and destinations. Come to Doha’s participating shopping malls to see the excitement unfold. There is a shopping raffle with incredible prizes, as well as sensational shows for all the family, and plenty of deals too.

QATAR OLYMPIC BEACH CHAMPIONSHIP (MARCH 10-17)

The Qatar Olympic Beach Championship is one of many community-driven activities held under the Qatar Olympic Committee Beach Games. Amateur players can sign up through the Qatar Olympic Committee to compete in the dynamic tournament.

GEEKDOM (MARCH 16-18)

Qatar's largest pop-culture extravaganza, Geekdom, is returning this year at Lusail Boulevard. The event aims to reconnect creatives to their love of fun and fantasy through tournaments, video game tournaments, film screenings, performances by artistes and more.

INFLATARUN DOHA 2023:

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR EVENT IS HERE!

The first-ever InflataRUN Doha is set to take place for 10 days from March 9-18. The slotted hours are 4pm till midnight at the Education City Stadium - Spectator Parking D.

This unique family event promises an all-day fun experience for all ages, featuring the world’s longest and largest inflatable continuous course, InflataRACES for the first time in the region, including InflataDOME for an all-day fun, InflataPARK to explore, InflataSTADIUM, Carnival booths, and a Monster Truck Inflatables display. Doha-ites are gearing up for an unforgettable experience filled with energy and excitement. They will be able to enjoy a live DJ, dancing, roaming

and stage performances as well as photo ops. Food for thought? They can dive right in with the food court featuring over 25 vendors. Simply put, this is a one-of-a-kind event that is not to be missed!

Inflata RUN will feature two exciting races: InflataMONSTER and InflataSPRINT on March 18th from 7:00 am till 11:00 am. Enthusiasts will have their chance at showcasing skills and determination, and be rewarded for their efforts with exciting prizes worth QR140,000.

The organisers are chuffed about the forthcoming event. “We are very excited to bring this event to Doha for the very first time. InflataRUN Doha is one of a kind family event packed with activities, entertainment and fun for all ages. We look forward to welcoming the public and offering them the best inflatable experience,” said Abdullah Al Kubaisi, Chairman of Events Entertainment Enterprises.

However, tickets are limited, and early booking is recommended. The tickets can be bought through BookingQube.com or visiting www.inflatarun.com for more information.

“InflataRUN Doha 2023, is not the kind of typical family event you’ve attended in Doha; it is a world first, and we are proud to host the first edition in Qatar. The event has taken months of planning and design and we promise a world class bouncy experience to our guests,” noted Adil Ahmed, CEO of Events Entertainment Enterprises.

“Join us for a chance to be a part of the Guinness World Records breaking attempt to The World’s Longest Inflatable Obstacle Course and to make unforgettable memories at the InflataRUN Doha 2023 in Education City,” he suggested. InflataRUN event is accessible by car and by Metro using the Green line, Education City Station. Three Parking facilities are also available at a walking distance.

• InflataRUN Doha 2023 is brought to you by E3, and supported by partners such as InflataPark City Center Mall, BookingQube, Warrior Fit, I Love Qatar, Qatar Happening, Yallatoys and Wer2. For more information on InflataRUN DOHA 2023 visit the following

• Website – www.inflatarun.com

• Instagram– @inflata.run

• About E3 (Events Entertainment Enterprises)

E3 brings together a team with over 20 years of experience in designing, building, and operating some of Qatar’s most visited play areas and family festivals. E3’s innovative services and products are unique, and their team is ever ready to provide customized turn-key entertainment solutions and event services to malls, hotels, resorts, corporate events, and family entertainment centres. www.eeeqa.com n

Life’s centre-stage: Motherhood

International Mother's Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the unconditional love and sacrifice of mothers worldwide. Observed in Qatar on March 21, the holiday honors motherhood and maternal bonds, as well as the influence and importance of mothers in society. While the traditions and customs associated with Mother's Day may vary across cultures and countries, the day is universally recognized as a time to express gratitude and appreciation for the mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our lives.

Qatar Happening spoke to Self-Worth Coach Anahi Ortiz-Prieto to get to pick her brains on the importance of the day and what motherhood means to her.

Herewith the fiver:

1. What does being a mother mean to you?

It is the toughest commitment I’ve ever taken. It means immense joy and immense stress, a sense of purpose and responsibility, and an awareness that I am no longer living just for me, but that I owe parts of me to two little humans.

2. How has motherhood changed you, both as a person and as a professional?

As a person, it gave me a different sense of self-awareness and pushes me constantly to do better, to grow, to heal and make sure I raise two humans that are kind and compassionate. Moreover, it has made me kinder to myself and to my parents, bringing me closer to my culture and roots in many ways.

Professionally, well, that one is complicated. On one hand, because I need to be mindful of where I put my time and energy, it has inspired me to make sure I choose projects and jobs that have a real meaning, but also it has inspired me to find ways to change the world through my work, so I have educated myself in different topics as my own needs as a mom demanded so. Hence why I trained as a doula, as a lactation consultant, mindfulness coach

and more – the needs of mothering inspired me to learn these things.

3. Who are the mothers that have inspired you the most in your life, and why?

All mothers inspire me. To start with, my mother, the way she committed to healing and doing better when she raised me, despite the challenging circumstances she faced, has always inspired me. But also my friends, all the mothers I shared trenches with – through teething and meltdowns, through emotional turmoils and changing seasons, they all inspired me to be kind to myself and my kids, to push through because, even when at times I felt so alone and isolated, I was standing shoulder to shoulder with them.

4. What is the most important lesson you've learned from your mother, or from being a mother yourself?

From my mother I learned that putting myself first was the only way to serve my children best and give them the best mom I could be. I also learned the power of saying sorry to them when I made a mistake, she always apologised and showed me I deserved better. From being a mother I have learned that motherhood – as I want to experience

it – leaves noroom for ego, because these kids came through me but don’t belong to me, and their choices, mistakes, wins and struggles aren’t mine to take on, but simply to witness.

5. How do you balance your responsibilities as a mother with your career and personal goals?

To be honest, I do my best as all working parents are forced to do in a society that gives little allowances to us. I had to step down my last corporate job precisely because it was so incredibly misaligned with my role as a mother the way I want it to be. I also have a massive gap in my CV, which many employers judge and criticise, for the years I focused on mothering my children full time. But, I stopped apologising for choosing my family over anything else, as hard as that is professionally.

I always tell my clients that there aren’t priorities in plural, you can only focus on ONE area fully so you can really give your best without burning out. So we can have it ALL, just not all at once, and that is ok. I guess to me more than balancing my career, personal goals and motherhood, there is harmony in knowing I’m mostly a mother these days and that is ok, eventually, the career focused me will return. n

“BEING A MOTHER MEANS SACRIFICING”

1. What does being a mother mean to you?

Being a mother means sacrificing myself, my time, my sleep, and my mental health to raise my kids into gentlemen, who can be kind enough to contribute towards making this world a better place.

2. How has motherhood changed you, both as a person and as a professional?

Motherhood changed my life upside down; I never imagined myself prioritising someone else’s needs and keeping myself after. I was meant to be a successful architect and here I am publishing a book and helping moms to nurture their kids mindfully.

3. Who are the mothers that have inspired you the most in your life, and why? Muniba Mazari inspired me the most and made me realise that you can be successful in your worst circumstances – the only thing is for you to never give up.

4. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from your mother, or from being a mother yourself?

I come from a small town, where nobody truly understands the worth of being a mom. Nobody understands that it’s the hardest non-paying 24-hour job. Seeing my mom doing this selfless job and losing her true value lessened me to prove myself as a homemaker and to keep my dignity in my community.

5. How do you balance your responsibilities as a mother with your career and personal goals?

Honestly, I’m still finding ways to balance it better because sometimes it gets tough to be in charge of all things. But there are a few things that make my life easier:

a. Planning and routine keeps me organised.

b. Support system – can’t thank God enough for blessing me with a supportive husband and my friends who look after my kids when I’m not around.

c. Self-care which is most important because that makes me happy, more confident, getting things done more efficiently and it also elevates me to be more present around my kids. I cannot always see joy in chaos, but I try to slow down. I try to worry less. n

SANIA MOIZ IS A REPUTED MOM INFLUENCER AND AUTHOR OF LET’S START WEANING

“Unconditional love, laughter and being best friends for life”

1. What does being a mother mean to you?

Unconditional love, lots of laughter and giggles, and having best friends for life.

2. How has motherhood changed you, both as a person and as a professional?

Being a mom has made me more selfless and shift my priorities.

3. Who are the mothers that have inspired you the most in your life, and why?

My mom is my greatest influence and my role model. She is the most cheerful person I know and can light up a room with her smile and energy. She chooses positivity and shares that with everyone around her.

4. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from your mother, or from being a mother yourself?

Showing kids love and affection will help their self-esteem and change how they see themselves. Greatness can come for love.

5. How do you balance your responsibilities as a mother with your career and personal goals?

Sometimes it’s hard to balance your responsibilities as a mother with your personal goals and it is okay to ask for help!. n

DEYANA SCHULTES IS FOUNDER OF KIDSLOVEQATAR AND PROUD MOM OF TWO

“RAISING A CHILD WITH RESPONSIBILITY”

1. What does being a mother mean to you?

Being a mother means being responsible and putting your child as main priority when it comes to taking decisions. And definitely the most rewarding job when putting your effort and time to educate, help and raise a child.

2. How has motherhood changed you, both as a person and as a professional?

Definitely, responsibility is the main change I felt from the moment I discovered I was expecting. This feeling started growing with the child and it changed completely the person in me to someone more mature and more aware. So in terms of career and professional life, you start adjusting, with the wellbeing of your child as the fulcrum of your life; it truly transforms you into a more responsible and loving person.

3. Who are the mothers that have inspired you the most in your life, and why?

You know what? I think every single mother I ever met in my journey, from the time I didn’t have a child and even today, mothers that I admired and those that in a way were and are example of moms that I don’t want to be like. I would say every simple mother has been an inspiration to me.

4. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from your mother, or from being a mother yourself?

From my mother definitely, I learned to not lose my essence and forget who I was and my interests, my mom always reminded me that when you become a mom remember to yet find time for yourself, if you lose you and your interests you can never be an example. And my advice would definitely be to spend time with your children, not to overthink and listen to your child’s needs and teach your child to embrace positivity.

5. How do you balance your responsibilities as a mother with your career and personal goals?

I believe if we truly want to do something and it means so much to us we definitely find time for it; I’d say stop procrastinating, stop complaining, and start doing what

you have to do and mean to do, now! Remember everything you do you is an example to your child and the values and boundaries that you create is what your child will remember about you. Tell tour child your goals and work towards them to make sure your child knows how important he or she is and equally, your goals are, and, those goals are, for the future of the family. As a mother, be the source of what you want to attract and expect. n

ELMIRA KAHROBAIE IS A BLOGGER AND CURATOR OF @VISITQATAR AND @GRAZIAQATAR INFLUENCER OF THE YEAR 2017 AND 2019

1. What does being a mother mean to you?

Being a mom is definitely an empowering feeling! When I first became a mom I was clueless, then over time I realised that this is a journey, where I get to recognise some of my greatest strengths and weaknesses. It is a learning curve; it can be exhausting and overwhelming at times but definitely, worth it.

2. How has motherhood changed you, both as a person and as a professional?

It has definitely made me a more patient and empathetic person. It’s a beautiful journey of unlearning and learning new things where we are able to embrace new perspectives in life. As of today, I consciously make efforts to be a better version of myself, to become someone who makes my girls proud. My page “mommy_musingsss” is where I share everything about my motherhood journey and my girls’ milestones. I like to keep it raw by sharing all my struggles as well the happy moments that makes it my unique journey. Connecting with fellow moms, exchanging stories, learning something new from each other have definitely made these six years on the social media worthwhile.

3. Who are the mothers that have inspired you the most in your life, and why?

I take inspiration from the women around me. I learn something from every mom out there, who hustles every day, who never gives up, who tries her best to provide a happy

It has made me more patient and empathetic”

JAYEETHA PRAKASH IS A MOM INFLUENCER AND CONTENT CREATOR

environment for their little ones. Moms inspire me every single day. But if I had to name someone it would be Sudha Murthy (educator, author and philanthropist and chairperson of Infosys foundation). She’s a dynamic woman who inspires so many of us with her thoughts and humility.

4. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from your mother, or from being a mother yourself? I have learnt to believe in myself. Motherhood gets very tricky as we tend to second-guess ourselves a lot. In these six years one important thing I have learned is to believe in myself and my instincts as their mom. Everything else falls into place eventually.

5. How do you balance your responsibilities as a mother with your career and personal goals?

Time management and planning ahead keeps me sane with all the chaos that comes with handling two toddlers. I understand that pursuing your goals after becoming a mom is difficult, but it is not impossible! I started this page when I was pregnant with my second daughter. It gave me so much of insight and made me achieve things that I had never dreamt of! Yes, I would love to go back to my 9-5 job soon but I haven’t ever regretted being a stay-at-home mom and an influencer. I have still lots of dreams and goals to achieve and I am sure my biggest cheerleaders are going to be my two beautiful daughters. n

Regal Beauty

HAIRAAT MARKS A NEW ERA CELEBRATING THE RICH CULTURAL TRADITION OF EQUESTRIANISM

Qatari luxury house Hairaat celebrated the success of its exclusive partnership as the Diamond Sponsor of the annual Katara International Arabian Horse Festival (KIAHF) 2023. In its third year, the event, which took place from February 1 to 11 at Katara Beach, was attended by thousands of guests who were at hand to appreciate Hairaat’s various sublime collections and collaborations.

Now completing its second year as a headline sponsor, Hairaat’s partnership with KIAHF was born out of their mutual passion for showcasing the hidden beauty and culture of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Hairaat’s founder and designer, Nada Al Sulaiti, was invited by one of her clients to the debut KIAHF, where she was greatly inspired by the significance of horses in Qatari culture and heritage. Instead of buying a table for potential special guests, she chose to become the event’s Diamond Sponsor, a natural step that marked the harmonious synergy and values of both brands. Already established as one of Doha’s most sought-after luxury jewellery brands, Hairaat creates bespoke pieces that radiate Qatar’s rich culture to the world through blended jewels with a global appeal.

In its role as Diamond Sponsor, Hairaat commanded the dawn of a new era at this year’s KIAHF. Embracing the notion of how beauty can be transcendent, much like the journey of the revered Arabian horse breed, Hairaat took this opportunity to merge and become a complete Lifestyle brand. This pivot into a new direction was further celebrated with several collaborative designs and pieces specially created for KIAHF 2023.

THE MAHRA COLLECTION

Hairaat’s partnership with KIAHF was centred around embracing and representing Qatari identity, culture and heritage on the world stage. Hairaat’s Mahra collection took this one step further. Mahra — meaning a female horse under the age of one in Arabic — is a collection of intricate and feminine pieces with an equine-inspired

colour palette that represents both the majestic creatures and the soft, regal beauty of jewellery for women. With exclusive and unique pieces, the focus of this collection was transformative qualities. Hence, you will find items embellished with precious stones, diamonds and pearls and all with the ability to transform. Each piece can be worn in a multitude of ways such as a bracelet or a necklace, the wearer decides n

TOP PROMISING QATARI DESIGNERS MAKE A MARK

Asalient feature of this year’s Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) — the Qatari Designers initiative by Qatar Tourism — were bright talents whose collections made a distinguished statement despite being set against the industry’s big names. The following up-and-coming designers impressed one and all with their wares at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.

DE TROVE: Statement pieces that centre on elements from nature are a feature at this brand’s booth, along with a modern take on popular name jewellery, this time with delicate diamonds dangling from the letters. DE TROVE is also distinct in creating collections that cater to children.

H Jewellery: Drawing inspiration from Qatar’s culture and heritage, H Jewellery offers elegant jewellery that demonstrates pride in Qatar’s

past, present and future. Designer and entrepreneur, Hamad al-Mohammad, has taken his collection to jewellery exhibitions around the world, and is a frequent collaborator with other artists to create one-of-a-kind works.

Hessa Jewels: Visitors to Hessa Jewels boasts not only exquisite craftsmanship on display but also important elements to Qatar’s culture. From the mashmoom plant which signifies happiness, to the Batoola collection, Sameera al-Mulla — the brand’s designer and creative force — incorporates fine details to her designs resulting in stunning and authentic pieces.

Midad Jewellery: Founded by Abdulla Yousef al-Fakhroo, Midad Jewellery centres on calligraphy and Islamic design. In launching the brand, the artist and entrepreneur was driven by a need to bring the historic art form closer to people, to be worn and integrated into everyday life. In addition

to the calligraphy, the brand weaves in Sadu designs using precious elements such as Mother of Pearl.

Nouf Jewellery: From conceptual drawings to feminine pieces, Nouf alMeer showcases a diverse collection of pieces made with different materials and precious stones. Nouf Jewellery is inspired by natural, social and cultural elements. Special occasions, such as Qatar National Day, can also drive creative works, with collections representing the Qatar flag featuring in the brand.

Leila Issam Fine Jewellery: With “Anything Art”, as her fine jewellery brand’s adage, Leila Issam Fine Jewellery was founded in 2014 and run by the Middle Eastern creative director and designer, Leila Abu Issa. Born into a multi-cultural family, and having lived in numerous countries around the world, the designer brings elements of diverse cultures and heritages to her works.

Clair De Lune: Launched in 2017 by Asma Al-Saadi, Clair De Lune aims to create pieces of art, starting with a sketch of the customer’s vision, through to the reality of a finished piece. A handcrafted piece can take anything from 30 days to three months, with quality and care at the forefront of design.

Ghand Jewellery: Inimitable cuff links for men, with a collection sporting Black Onyx, Blue Lapis, Malachite and Mother of Pearl. Sisters Hissa and Jawaher al-Mannai have a mission to make Ghand Jewellery one of the most recognised and affordable luxury jewellery brands in the world.

Swayra Jewellery: Launched in 2020, Swayra Jewellery presents several collections, including their ‘Angels with Angles,’ – heart-shaped jewellery with sharp angles that represent kindness balanced with confidence and self-assurance.

Trifoglio: Founded and designed by Fajr Attia, Trifoglio specialises in luxury jewellery and leather handbags. The brand’s jewellery is marked by the distinct design of a four-leaf clover, adorned with pearls as well as roses, an enchanting yet delicate symbol. n

SIHR AL SHARQ

Ramadan Experience by the Beach

Located in the pristine stretch of beach overlooking the magnificent Doha skyline, patrons are invited to indulge in a traditional Iftar and Suhour with a series of ‘live.’ stations featuring the best of middle-eastern cuisine, buffet spreads of local and international favourites, complimented with the tunes strung live by oriental bands.

As dusk falls each evening, families and loved ones dine and spend quality time at the majestic Sihr Al Sharq Ramadan Experience.

IFTAR DAILY from Sunset - 8:00 pm QR 275 per person inclusive of soft beverages

SUHOUR 8:30 pm - 2:00 am QR 250 per person inclusive of soft beverages

FIND IT: Sharq Village & Spa, a RitzCarlton Hotel Ras Abu Abboud Street

CALL: +974 4425 6666 or

WHATSAPP: +974 3338 2589

RAMADAN JOURNEY TO SILK ROAD

Celebrate the spirit of the Holy month of Ramadan at Choices. Embark on the ancient journey of the Silk Road and explore the culinary touches from as far as Indonesia, China, and India to Central Asia, Turkey and the Middle East, ending through the Mediterranean.

IFTAR BUFFET: QR 210 per person inclusive of Ramadan beverages

Timing: Iftar - 8:00 pm

FIND IT: Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha.

CALL: +974 4141 1234 or WHATSAPP: +974 6608 5806

*IFTAR*

Daily Sunset – 8:00 pm

QR 230 per person

*SUHOUR*

Daily 9:00 pm – 2:00 am

Suhour Under the Stars

QR 190 per person

FIND IT: O’Glacée outdoor restaurant

Alwadi Doha

CALL: +974 4009 9999 or

WHATSAPP: +974 3075 8211

IFTAR & SUHOOR AT THE GARDEN

This Holy Month, indulge in a refined Iftar & Suhoor experience, served under a canopy of stars amidst our scented gardens.

Iftar Buffet QR 250 per person (Kids four (4) years and below complimentary, kids between 5 to 12 years QR 125, inclusive of access to Kids Club playroom)

Suhoor Buffet QR 175 per person (Kids 4 years and below complimentary, kids between 5 to 12 years QR 85 )

Shisha Selection from QR 140

FIND IT: Renderings of The Garden at Al Messila Resort & Spa

CALL: +974 44450000 or

WHATSAPP: +974 55059901

IFTAR & SUHOOR AT SALWA TENT

Experience the full spectrum of Arabian hospitality while immersed in the Qatari heritage in anelegant Arabesque setting at our specially designed Ramadan Tentat Salwa Tent. Daily | Sunset 2 am

FIND IT: Sheraton Grand Doha - Salwa Ballroom

CALL: 4485 4444

RAMADAN SUHOOR

Savour a sumptuous Suhoor feast at Cafe Rouge with our special Set Menu! Start with a delicious spread of Oriental Mezze, followed by flavorful Platters and finish with your favourite sweet treat. A variety of traditional Ramadan beverages are also available to complete the experience.

PRICE: QR 125 per person for a set menu

DAILY from Iftar time till 12 midnight

Live entertainment and a la carte are also available

FIND IT: Café Rouge, Le Meridien

Doha Qatar

CALL: +974 40413333

WANASSA BY CROSSROADS KITCHEN

Where Flavour meets tradition

Enjoy a lavish buffet of global cuisines and traditional Arabic dishes, served with live cooking stations in an elegant oriental setting. Book your table now and experience the joy of breaking your fast with family and friends.

DATE & TIMINGS: From the First day of Ramadan, from Sundown – 9 pm

Price: QR 225 inclusive of Ramadan juices

FIND IT: Crossroads Kitchen, Level 3, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

CALL: +974 4419 5510 or

WHATSAPP: +974 6643 6890

FLAVOURS OF RAMADAN AT FARMORE THE BURGER

Experience the authentic flavours of Ramadan with our Iftar set menu! Enjoy unlimited food that will satisfy and nourish you this holy month.

DATE & TIMINGS: Daily | Sundown to 8.30 pm

Price: QR 160 per person

FIND IT: Farmore Thn Burger | Lobby Level | Marriott Executive Apartments City Center Doha

CALL: +974 6676 6785

IFTAR BUFFET

For the whole month of Ramadan Iftar buffet at only QR 140 per person

Opening time: Sunset - Closing time: 10:30 pm

FIND IT: Hyde Park, Ground Floor, West wing, Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha, Qatar

CALL: +974 4428 1555

IFTAR AT SOUK KITCHEN

Enjoy a celebration of authentic flavours this Holy Month of Ramadan with our Iftar buffet.

Price: QR 198 Buffet Menu at Souk Kitchen.

Date: 22 March – 20 April

FIND IT: Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

CALL: +974 4423 6666

RAMADAN AT NOBU

With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Nobu Doha is perfect for those looking to break their fast in an intimate gathering with family & friends. Take your taste buds on a culinary journey with our special Iftar set menu, or your favourite Nobu dishes were chosen from our a la carte menu as you take in the beautiful views of the Doha skyline from our rooftop.

Ramadan Omakase set menu –QR 275 per person for food only Monday – Saturday, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm. Closed on Sundays.

FIND IT: Four Season Hotel DohaNobu Doha

CALL: 4494 8500

Four Season Hotel Doha has announced the appointment of Julia Selyukova as the new Hotel Manager. A hotelier with more than 20 years of experience, Julia has previously held the position of Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Moscow.

A long-serving Four Seasons veteran, Julia first joined the company in 2014 at Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, starting from the position of Sales Director, then leading the Sales & Marketing Department and playing an important role in the successful opening of the hotel that became an undisputed leader in the market.

She then completed different assignments in several Four Seasons properties across Europe and the Middle East, including Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris; Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach; and Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. In 2019, Julia moved to operations, taking

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA WELCOMES JULIA SELYUKOVA AS NEW HOTEL MANAGER

the position of Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Moscow.

“I am very glad to welcome Julia to our multicultural team” says Shadi Suleman, General Manager of the hotel. “She is joining us at a very important time after the successful FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and her vast experience will be a remarkable contribution to the continued success of Four Seasons Hotel Doha.”

Born and raised in St Petersburg, Russia, she was introduced to a city of rich culture and history from a young age. After attending St Petersburg State University, she devoted the early years of her career to journalism, working in television.

However, her interest in studying cultures of different countries and the excitement of meeting new people from all over the world inspired her to explore the world of hospitality where she started her career at Marriott Hotels and Resorts, in the Sales & Marketing

department.

Julia believes that the key to success in the hotel business is by delivering the highest quality and consistency in service that can be achieved not only by following standards, but by sincere care and dedication of the team who knows how to meet and anticipate guests’ needs.

“I feel honored to take on this role at Four Seasons Hotel Doha”, says Julia Selyukova. “With a successful World Cup behind us, there is an exciting future ahead as Qatar turns into a rich destination of culture, sports and art. It is important to keep the momentum of the successful event and move forward using all the opportunities. In my new role, I will focus on enhancing our services and developing new talents that will lead our hotel to continued success. I look forward to working with the team and immersing myself in the city’s limitless experiences and fascinating beauty.” n

LET'S EAT

SUSHI LOVERS

Enjoy unlimited skilfully crafted sushi, sashimi, and maki with two drinks.

Every Monday

QR 190 per person on Mondays, from 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm

FIND IT: O'Glacée – Alwadi Hotel

Doha

CALL: +974 4009 9666 Or

WHATSAPP: +974 3075 8211

DOHA'S FAVOURITE MEALS

MARCH IS HERE AND SO ARE DELICIOUS FOODIE PROMOTIONS YOU NEED TO TRY NOW.

Rouge and explore our Express lunch menu options.

2 Course menu: QR 70

3 Course menu: QR 79

TIME: DAILY 12 pm – 4 pm

FIND IT: Café Rouge, Le Meridien

Doha Qatar

CALL: +974 40413333

SIGNATURE SET MENU BY CHEF IZU

Enjoy a sophisticated experience at IZU with the signature set menu of hand-picked dishes served for dinner on the restaurant's first floor. The selection includes Burrata Salad, Seared Foie Gras, Slow Cooked Short Ribs and Mixed Berries Cheesecake for dessert.

Available until 21 March 2023

Set Menu: QR 620 per person

Dinner: 7 pm to 11 pm

FIND IT: Mosaic, Mandarin Oriental Doha Qatar

CALL: +974 4008 8888

THE COSMOPOLITAN BRUNCH

Every Friday

Your search for the ultimate modern and contemporary Friday Brunch stops in Choices as we kick off the New Year with the newly makeover Cosmopolitan Brunch.

Be spoilt with the large variety of starters, from the appetizer selections to the sought-after sushi and maki station, fresh seafood, oysters, poached lobster tail, prawns, and langoustine on ice, accompanied by the international selection of cheese and fresh homemade bakery.

TIME: Available from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

QR 300 per person, inclusive of soft beverages

FIND IT: Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha.

CALL: +974 4141 1234 or WhatsApp:

+974 6608 5806

L'ARTISAN –Everyday Brunch

Distinguished by its theatrical 'served and finished at the table' presentations, L'Artisan's Brunch features an enticing spread of freshly baked delights and sweet and savoury mains, all made with the freshest seasonal and sustainable ingredients favoured by Chef Thierry Motsch.

TIME: Daily, 12:00 – 16:00

QR 330 including soft beverages; QR 450 including unique beverages

FIND IT: L'Artisan, 1st Floor, Raffles

Doha

CALL: 4030 7100

EXPRESS LUNCH

Whether you want a working lunch with your colleagues or are simply searching for a lunch that combines gourmet and comfort, head to Café

JAZZ & TOMAHAWK

Sink your teeth into a whopping 1.5kg USDA prime Angus Tomahawk rib eye steak accompanied with a choice of sides, NYSH legendary sauces and soulful jazz tunes – a perfect midweek culinary match!

DATE & TIMINGS: Tuesdays 6 pm –11 pm

PRICE: QR 799 for two persons, including two selected beverages

FIND IT: New York Steakhouse, Level 2, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

CALL: +974 4419 5510 or

WHATSAPP: +974 6643 6890

SUNSET & YOU

Pamper yourself for an unforgettable sunset experience at Patio by Walima with discounted prices on the selected menu items.

TIME: Daily from 4 pm to 8 pm

FIND IT: Patio by Walima, Mondrian West Bay Lagoon Doha

CALL: +974 4045 5999

S & S ROAST

At only QR 199 per person, enjoy roast beef served with Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, salad, roasted potatoes, gravy, a dessert and three(3) special beverages from the selection.

OFFER TIMING: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Days: Saturdays and Sundays (excluding Ramadan)

FIND IT: Shehrazad Lounge Bar & Terrace 1st Floor, West Wing Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Qatar

CALL: +974 4428 1555

VAYA! MEET & EAT

Lunch: A Moment to Share and Savour

Experience the warmth of Latin America and savour moments to remember with friends, colleagues, and loved ones at Vaya! 's Meet & Eat Lunch. This three-course feast is perfect for bonding over sharing-style appetizers and a main course choice of delicious South American meat, seafood, or vegetarian options. Finish off your meal with a Vaya! Dessert platter for the sweetest of endings.

Price: QR 190 per person

TIMINGS: Sunday – Thursday, 12 pm – 4 pm

FIND IT: Vaya! 1st Floor, Fairmont Doha

CALL OR WHATSAPP: +974 4030 7200

Fantastic Fridays at Hunters Room & Grill

We all know that weekends are filled with brunches and happy memories, and at The Westin Doha, they just know how to continue the weekend fiesta.

Qatar Happening ventured to try out their fabulous Tomahawk Friday Brunch, which runs from 12:30pm until 4pm. The Friday Brunch is designed to entertain you during your lunch break with your family, friends, or significant other and take your taste buds to the next level. The lively brunch takes place at Hunters Room & Grill, located on the hotel's mezzanine floor.

Upon entering, we were greeted with a refreshing berry drink right at the entrance. As we sipped on the delightful beverage, we were taken to our seats and eager to start our culinary adventure. We began with their delectable cold appetisers, which were as delicious as you can imagine! We were served oysters, sea bass tiradito, beef carpaccio, and other starters that did not disappoint one bit.

As the afternoon progressed, the venue offered great ambiance with their live entertainment. If you are visiting with kids, the restaurant has a dedicated kids' area that serves kids' favourites and provides entertainment.

As we continued to taste all the goodness from their hot appetiser range, which included Eggs Benedict,

Beef Empanadas, and the extremely flavourful Portobello Mushroom

Gratin, we were eager to try the main course. We opted for the Black Angus Tomahawk and Surf and Turf. The main course was served with numerous sides, such as steamed vegetables that were nice and crunchy, truffle mashed potatoes, French fries, Polenta, and a selection of sauces. Truly, there was a myriad of sides to complement the mains.

On to the mains. The Tomahawk Steak, made from the finest cuts of premium meat, is renowned for its quality of meat and rich flavours. Truly, the bold and distinctive flavours of the steaks promise the award-winning status of thissteakhouse. The succulent lobster in garlic butter, tiger prawns, and black cod of the Surf and Turf platter were scrumptious, setting Hunters Room & Grill apart from the rest.

We ended our afternoon with a suave chocolate mousse and a pecan tart –the perfect way to end our lusciously relaxing Friday brunch. n

PRICES

QR 495 per person Brunch with Soft Beverage Package

QR 695 per person Brunch with House Beverage Package

QR 795 per person Brunch with Premium Beverage Package

Mandarin Oriental, Doha will welcome Michael Wong, Executive Chinese Chef of Lai Po Heen at Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur for a special culinary promotion to present his gourmet cuisine to diners at Mandarin Oriental, Doha’s signature Chinese restaurant, Liang, between 7 – 11 March 2023. Chef Michael specialises in Cantonese cuisine, inspired by his experience and travels in Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Chef Michael also pays homage to his upbringing in Lenggong, Malaysia, by infusing his dishes with flavours and cooking methods synonymous to his hometown.

During Chef Michael’s exclusive 5-day residency, guests will be able to enjoy his take on classic Chinese fare with dishes inspired by the award-winning Chinese restaurant Lai Po Heen created especially for Liang.

Menus will feature à la carte dishes such as Golden Lava Buns with Steamed Custard and Salted Egg Yolk, Traditional Shunde-Style Turbot Fish Soup, alongside Black Sesame Shrimp Spring Rolls and other specialties. Also, guests will be able to order Chef Michael’s carefully crafted set menus for lunch and dinner.

The menus are priced at QR290 per person for lunch, and QR390 per person for dinner, and QR490 per person for an exclusive dinner menu on March 9. Available from March 7-11, 2023 for lunch from 12pm-3pm and for dinner from 6pm-11pm.

Advance reservations are required, please call +974 4008 8888.

EXECUTIVE CHINESE CHEF

ABOUT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, KUALA LUMPUR

Situated adjacent to the iconic Petronas Twin Tower, Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, it is the city’s leading luxury hotel with 629 well-appointed rooms, suites, and serviced apartments. Delight your senses with an array of cuisines showcased in seven innovative outlets. Escape Kuala Lumpur’s urban bustle at The Spa with rejuvenating facials, body treatments and award-winning Signature Therapies for a holistic wellbeing. Take a dip at the infinity edge pool overlooking the spectacular city skyline or be mesmerised by the magnificent display of KLCC Lake Symphony Fountain at the Esplanade KLCC.

ABOUT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is an intimate and stylish urban retreat located in the centre of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the new lifestyle and cultural heart of the city. The hotel blends chic and contemporary design with touches of Qatari heritage, bringing new levels of luxury to Qatar. Designed by the world-renowned David Collins Studio, the hotel’s 117 rooms, 41 suites and 91 serviced apartments blend an elegant, contemporary design with subtle elements of traditional Qatari heritage. n

MICHAEL WONG FROM LAI PO HEENAN – THE AWARD-WINNING CHINESE RESTAURANT – WILL BE AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA FROM MARCH 7-11

CHOICEST RAMADAN STAYCATIONS

DOHA RETREAT

Enjoy a stay at Mandarin Oriental, Doha in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha with the Doha Retreat.

Rates starting from QR1,400 per night.

FIND IT: Mandarin Oriental Doha, Msheireb Downtown

CALL: 4008 8888

Offer valid until 22 March 2023.

STAY LONGER ON US

Treat your family to the ultimate staycation this summer, stay minimum 3 nights and save up to 25% while relaxing in one of our luxurious rooms with a host of unique culinary experiences, recreational facilities and rejuvenating treatments at Saray Spa.

FIND IT: Marriott Marquis City Center

Doha Hotel

CALL: 4419 500

ROMANCE EXPERIENCE

Includes a complimentary upgrade to suite, in-room breakfast, complimentary access to the swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. A bottle of sparkling bubbly and chocolate platter on arrival with fresh flowers and late check-out upon availability.

Price: QR599

FIND IT: Radisson Blu Hotel

CALL: 4428 1500

AL SHARQ RAMADAN STAYCATION

From the serene atmosphere of the resort to the bespoke Ramadan flavours in the restaurants, the

scene is set for you to stay and reconnect. Our limited-time offer includes a sumptuous Iftar by the beach and Suhoor in the comfort of your room or suite with balcony.

FIND IT: Sharq Village & Spa, a RitzCarlton Hotel

CALL: 4425 6666 or Whatsapp 3338 2589.

RAMADAN WEYAKUM

Celebrate the holy month and enjoy exclusive savings on your stay, with complimentary Iftar and Suhoor at one of Qatar's most iconic locations. A second home for generations in Qatar, the Sheraton Grand Doha is here for you to connect differently in the spirit of Ramadan. Come together and celebrate Ramadan Weyakum* with the following benefits:

• Exclusive savings on your stay, Iftar at Al Hubara restaurant, Suhoor in the comfort of your room

Price: Starting from QR750

FIND IT: Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

CALL: 4485 4444

Valid from March 22-April 20

RAMADAN ESCAPE

Make the most of your Ramadan and take time to reflect and contemplate in a peaceful setting. Celebrate the holy month with your family at Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha.

Price: Starting from QR425 for two persons. Resident Rate includes:

• Buffet breakfast at Choices allday dining or In-Room dining Suhoor for two

• 20% savings on massage treatments

• 20% savings on food & beverage

FIND IT: Hyatt Regency

CALL: 4141 1234 or WhatsApp 6608 5806

Offer valid throughout Ramadan

RAMADAN STAYCATION

Cherish the holy month with a staycation experience, inclusive of Iftar or Suhoor served at The Garden. Starting from QR850 per person per night

FIND IT: Al Messila Resort & Spa

CALL: 44450000

Offer valid throughout Ramadan

RAMADAN STAYCATION AT CENTARA

Celebrate Ramadan with your family and loved ones at Centara West Bay. Stay and dine in a luxurious accommodation and enjoy stunning views of Doha City Skyline and the Arabian Gulf Sea.

Price: starting at just QR555 and are inclusive of in-room Iftar set meals.

FIND IT: Centra Westbay

CALL: 4009 5555

Offer valid from March 22-April 20

COOKING UP A STORM: CRISPY SESAME CHICKEN

By Sana Hatif

Crispy sesame chicken is a delicious dish that combines the savoury flavours of fried chicken with the nutty, slightly sweet taste of sesame seeds. One of the best things about crispy sesame chicken is its versatility. It can be served on its own as a main course, or paired with vegetables and rice for a more complete meal. It’s also a great dish to make for a crowd, as it’s easy to scale up the recipe to feed a larger group. Despite its indulgent flavour and crispy texture, crispy sesame chicken can also be made healthier by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and baking them in the oven instead of frying. With a few simple tweaks, it’s possible to enjoy this delicious dish without the guilt.

INGREDIENTS

5 tbsp oil

2 eggs

4 tbsp cornflour

10 tbsp white flour

SPICES

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp garlic powder

2 tsp paprika powder

PROTEIN

500-600 chicken breast fillet

SESAME SAUCE

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 cloves garlic very finely chopped

1 tbsp rice vinegar (can be substituted with regular white vinegar)

4 tbsp soy sauce

2tbsp honey

2 tbsp sweet chili sauce

3tbsp ketchup

2 tbsp brown sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

Marinate the chicken with cornflour, white flour, salt, black pepper, paprika powder, garlic powder, eggs and oil for 30 minutes.

Shallow fry the chicken and set aside Take a bowl and mix rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, brown sugar. Sesame sauce is ready. Set aside.

Now take a wok and add sesame oil (on medium heat)

Add garlic n sauté till its fragrant

Add the previously prepared sesame sauce.

Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.

Add the fried chicken

Let sesame sauce coat the chicken completely.

Turn off the heat.

Garnish with sesame seeds. Serve it with steamed rice or garlic infused egg noodles. n

INTERMITTENT FASTING – A LIFESTYLE CHANGE

By Munira Rahat

Whilst the Internet, TV and other entertainment available 24/7, many adults and children stay awake for longer hours to watch TV, scroll through the social media, play games and chat online. This can mean sitting and snacking all day and most of the night.

This lifestyle results in extra calories taken with less activity which can also mean higher risk of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart diseases and other illnesses. Scientific studies are showing that intermittent fasting may help reverse these trends.

Intermittent fasting is currently one of the world’s most popular health and fitness trends.

WHAT IS INTERMITTENT FASTING?

Many of the diets focus on ‘what’ to eat, but intermittent fasting focuses on ‘when’ to eat. Intermittent fasting is an eating plan that switches between fasting and eating on a regular schedule. With intermittent fasting, you only eat during a specific time. Abstaining from food for a number of

hours each day or eating just one meal a couple of days a week may have certain health benefits. However, water and zero calorie drinks are allowed during intermittent fast which does not result in raising the insulin levels.

HOW DOES INTERMITTENT FASTING WORK?

The concept of losing or maintaining healthy weight with intermittent fasting is all about ‘metabolic switching’. There are different ways of doing intermittent fasting, but they all are based on choosing regular time periods to eat and fast. For instance, a person might try eating during an eighthour period each day and fast for the remainder of sixteen hours (16:8). Or they might choose to eat only One Meal A Day for two days a week, popularly known as ‘’OMAD’’. After hours without food (fasting period), the body exhausts its sugar stores and starts burning fat. Intermittent fasting works by prolonging the fasting period in which your body is burning through calories consumed during your last meal and begins burning fat.

CHANGES INSIDE THE BODY

During the fasting period (ketosis), the body goes to its fat stores for energy and fatty acids called ketones, which are released in blood stream. As your body breaks down fat, these ketones are released from liver and are used as fuel to drive the body’s metabolism and to support muscle function. The body typically needs ketones when insulin levels are low. Every living body possesses the capability of switching from sugar to ketones for fuel. For most people producing small amount of ketone bodies is safe and can even be desirable by the body. Ketones act like antioxidants which help in energy production, protection and regeneration of the nervous system, prevent muscle mass, improve the quality of life and also help prevent cancer. However, even in ketosis, dietary fat is burned first and after that body fat. The body does not automatically lose weight by being in ketosis (fasting) state. Calorie deficit is still required so the metabolism runs out of dietary fat and starts running on stored body fat.

BENEFITS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF INTERMITTENT FASTING

The body does adapt to such lifestyle changes very quickly. Starting with intermittent fasting routine may result initially in a difficult sleep at night, as one may feel famished or thirsty. But as the body adapts to eat – fast routine, it results in the following benefits:

• Weight loss

• A lower risk of Type 2 diabetes

• Blood pressure control

• Reduced digestive issues

• Limit social eating

• Improved heart health

• Improved brain health

• Reduced risk of cancer

• No calories counting

Though intermittent fasting is generally considered safe, studies show that it may result in side effects, including hunger and cravings, constipation, irritability, headaches, and bad breath. It is always better to check with a health practitioner first, ensure it is safe and appropriate choice for you.

IS INTERMITTENT FASTING SAFE?

Some people try intermittent fasting for weight management and others use the method to address

chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, high cholesterol or arthritis. But intermittent fasting isn’t for everyone.

The following people should steer clear of trying intermittent fasting as they need sufficient calories on a daily basis for proper development;

• Children and teens under the age of 18

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• Underweight persons

• People struggling with weight gain

• People with Type 1 diabetes

• People with a history of disordered eating

RAMADAN FASTING

Ramadan fasting is same as intermittent fasting but with a spiritual dimension indicating a range of benefits for e.g. reduced oxidative stress, preserved learning and memory functioning. Fasts in Ramadan also knowns as ‘dry fast’ (as compared to intermittent fasting) can also help boost immune system, reduce cholesterol and promote weight loss. Abstaining from food for long periods of time can cause the body to use energy from different sources.

Consideration should be given to the food choices made at the time and after opening the fast. Unhealthy food choices will reverse all the benefits attained during fasting without any weight loss.

Studies shows that it is common for people to regain weight lost during Ramadan fasting after returning to their normal eating habits, i.e. if they are not healthy. Also the dehydration caused during the dry fasts reverses when people are drawn back to their normal routines.

However, the popularity of applying intermittent fasting has increased as more and more people are trying to avoid or alleviate obesity and metabolic diseases. Intermittent fasting is more beneficial in reducing weight without affecting lean mass compared to other fad diets and effectively improving insulin resistance and blood lipid conditions of the body. n

The writer is a IFA certified Fitness Instructor and Nutrition Therapist

A class apart

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR BIGGER, BETTER AND THE BEST, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN EMBASSY SUITES BY

HILTON DOHA OLD TOWN

With 151 all-suite rooms, the Hilton Doha Old Town boasts a prime location on Jabr Bin Mohammed St, spacious rooms and several dining options.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town is also a great accommodation choice for those visiting on business, providing spacious meeting rooms, a multi-function room and a fully equipped 24/7 business centre for professionals to comfortably and conveniently complete their work. The hotel is also well equipped for leisure guests looking for a stay that combines comfort and relaxation with comprehensive facilities, including a 24/7 fitness centre, and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool. In addition, the hotel boasts exquisite suites; each space is artfully accentuated with a different design, tactile furnishings and vibrant colour choices creating a unique style.

A range of dining options are also available at the hotel, including:

Copper & Spice offers Embassy Suites by Hilton’s free madeto-order breakfast. Featuring tandoor ovens and a pizza oven, the live cooking will produce food that is global in nature but with a progressive Indian and Arabic approach for both lunch and dinner.

Guests can also savour light bites and sip on delicious drinks at the conveniently located The Library.

IVY Terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy refreshing mocktails while overlooking glittering views of the Doha Corniche. Located in the heart of Doha’s Old Town, near the Doha Corniche, the hotel is a 10-minute walking distance to some of the city’s most iconic local attractions such as Souq Waqif, the National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art. The hotel is also easily accessible and close to metro stations.

“The opening celebration last year was the culmination of many months of hard work to bring the first Embassy Suites by Hilton to the region,” said Rony Sahyouni, hotel manager, “It is incredibly rewarding to have the support of the team and our local leadership. We want to thank everyone that helped make this project possible.”

Embassy Suites by Hilton Doha Old Town is also part of Hilton Honors, theaward-winning guest loyalty programme for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Members who book

directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

You can book direct at Hilton.com, through the Hilton Honors app or through other official Hilton channels for more perks and a price match guarantee. Hilton Honors members can redeem points using the Points Explorer tool.

• For more information, or to make a reservation, travelers may visit dohaoldtown.embassysuites.com or call +974 4426 7777

• For more information on Embassy Suites by Hilton, please visit https://stories.hilton.com/emea. n

During an outing to the Alwadi Hotel Doha, I had the opportunity to experience their exceptional spa and gym facilities. The M|Spa, which has won numerous awards, was a highlight of my trip. The spa offers a unique blend of contemporary therapies with traditional Arabic heritage herbs and fragrances, creating a truly authentic experience inspired by the region's rich culture.

The spa facilities were state-of-the-art and included a temperature-controlled outdoor pool with a separate children's pool. I loved relaxing in the sauna and aromatic steam room, which were designed with separate facilities for ladies and men. The relaxation room was an oasis of calm and serenity, and I felt completely rejuvenated after spending time there.

I opted for the signature treatment, the Saffron Journey, which was an indulgent and luxurious experience. The treatment started with a healing saffron footbath, followed by an essential oil blend that alleviated stress and deep muscle tension. The luxurious body exfoliation left my skin feeling soft and smooth, and the detoxifying saffron clay wrap was incredibly refreshing. The bespoke Arabic massage oil blend was the perfect way to end the treatment, leaving me feeling completely relaxed and re-energized.

The four single spa treatment rooms are named after Oud, Argan, Yasmine and Lily and a couple’s room named Misk and Amber.

The M|FIT gym was also impressive, with high-quality Technogym equipment available. I was able to personalise my workout sessions according to my fitness level and

A truly authentic experience

QH REVIEWER TAKES IN THE BEST ON OFFER AT ALWADI HOTEL DOHA

age. Accredited personal trainers are on hand to help guests achieve personal health and fitness goals. The gym offers monthly and annual memberships.

Overall, my experience at the Alwadi Hotel Doha's spa and gym facilities was truly exceptional. The combination of locally inspired aromatic herbs and fragrances, state-of-the-art facilities, and highly trained and supportive staff made for an unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a luxury spa and gym experience.

One could testify to Alwadi Hotel Doha General Manager Ramsey Saarany’s claim that a guest’s wellbeing was integral to the hotel’s commitment to providing the best experience possible.

In a calm vibe, he told me how they strove to provide their guests with a holistic experience, which he said, didn’t end with their rooms or restaurants. “M|Spa and M|Fit provide the perfect locations for our guests to take care of their physical and mental well-being,” he beamed with pride. And why not!

HOW TO REACH

Location: Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery

Area: Corner of Wadi Musheireb and Jassim bin Mohammed Street

For more information: +974 4009 9999,

Whatsapp: +974 3075 8211

Email: reservations.alwadihotel@accor.com

Website: www.alwadihoteldoha.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alwadihoteldoha

MAYSAN DOHA: STEPPING INTO YOUR ‘DREAM HOME’

QH REVIEWS THE LOCAL GETAWAY THAT IS EVERY BIT WORTH YOUR WHILE

From the outside the hotel appears to be just another distinguished mansion in D-Town but once you enter, it feels as though you are transported to a different world far away from the madding crowd. The good part? It is located merely 15-minute drive away from the city centre. What more could you ask for in terms of convenience.

A PEEK INTO OUR VILLA

It’s not often that a hotel’s villa resembles my actual dream house. Usually, the hotel is ultra-modern and doesn’t have the comforting coziness of home, or a little outdated without the glossy touches of fresh sparkle. Maysan Doha however, manages to capture crisp clean marble lines to brighten the rooms and a fresh wooden sophistication to soften the space as well as plush, chic furniture in the designs of each room.

Our splendid 745 sqm two-bedroom luxurious villa with a private pool and garden view through the wall-length windows, spacious living and indoor/ outdoor dining areas, a well-equipped pantry and guest powder room was much more than what we could ask for. The king-size bed at the centre of the room overlooks the private pool and a comfortable round day bed right beside the window to take in the view more closely. The dressing room with an ample closet area leads to a massive bedroom sized bathroom with dual rain showers and a more than inviting bathtub. It’s the type of room you cannot wait to get home to after a long, hectic day.

COME DINE WITH ME

The property has made sure to keep kids and teens busy with fun amenities such as two padel tennis courts, fully equipped fitness centre, two swimming pools and a fully supervised kids club.

After a fun padel tennis game, we were now ready for dinner. La Casa – an all-day dining restaurant offers a grand array of food artistically presented in a beautiful set up with an outdoor terrace facing the hotel’s central pool. The restaurant offers scrumptious dishes with selections of Italian and international cuisine. The Black Angus Tomahawk steak we ordered was deliciously copious, served with a variety of sauces and roasted baby potatoes. We would also highly recommend the royal shrimps and wagyu rib eye. However, if you do not wish to step out of your dream home and relish a fancy dinner then the extravagant in-room dining menu would come to the rescue. Waking up to the magnificent view really is a pleasant way to start your day. But stepping right out after a dip from your totally private pool into the garden to the intimate in-room breakfast is the delicious cherry on top. Large portions, good for two in the set

menu breakfast laid out in an absolutely beautiful setting looking right over the pool is surely something you would fancy experiencing.

TOUCHING TRANQUILITY

The main communal pool overlooking the iconic Torch tower is the perfect place to cool down under the hot sun. The property also has on offer a beautiful spa. We had the luxury to try its Balinese massage. The therapist was very professional and the atmosphere in the spa tranquil. As you might expect, there are a variety of treatments to choose from so whether you want a facial or a couple’s massage there’s more than a few excuses to treat yourself.

THE SCORECARD

It’s safe to say Maysan Doha is the type of place you don’t look forward to leaving. Not just because nobody wants to skip their usual routine, but because the decadent property feels like home. And honestly if I could choose a hotel to base my home’s luxurious design on, it would be Maysan Doha, from ceiling to floor! n

Doha: The aesthetic capital

Doha is a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with towering skyscrapers and bustling malls standing sideby-side with historic souks and cultural institutions. The sights and sounds of Doha are a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant present, and they offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world. In this photo essay, we look at some of these iconic structures.

The Torch Doha, Al Waab St, Doha. – Photo by Bashir Mohammad

Top down view of a staircase at Hamad Bin Khalifa Mosque. – Photo by Ibrahim Abazid

The Pearl-Qatar, Doha. – Photo by Elissar Haidar

Skyline of Doha, Qatar during blue hour. – Photo by Florian Wehde

Low angle elevation view of the National Museum located in the capital city of Qatar, Doha. Opened to the public in the year 2019, the structure of this museum has been inspired by the desert rose found in Qatar. – Photo by AB

Katara, Doha. – Photo by Emre

AN ODE TO LONDON

MAHDIYA FAROOK GIVES THE LOWDOWN ON THE HIGHS OF THE BRITISH CAPITAL

The British have always left us in awe with their stunning architecture, diverse culture and state-of-the-art museums. London, one of the world’s most vibrant and popular tourist destinations, is iconic for its culture and history and bustles with exciting nightlife and entertainment. The city has something to offer to every traveler. Here are some tips to make your trip less typical to other tourists.

GETTING AROUND

The London Underground, also lovingly known as the tube, is the most affordable and popular mode of transport, and the 11 lines provide access to major attractions. Get the Oyster Card, a contactless card, or your mobile app to pay for the journey. Though expensive, the iconic black taxis should be traveled at least once for the royal experience. Alternatively,

Satander Cycles, a bike sharing system, is a fun way to explore the city for the young at heart.

HOP IN AND HOP OFF – UNLIMITED TIMES

Hop into the Big Bus Tours, which takes you through the major attractions in London city. The best part about this tour is that you can hop in and hop off at your preferred destinations unlimited times. In addition to that, there are audio guides in multiple languages that give expert tips as you travel across each iconic destination.

CITY MEETING POINTS

Take advantage of the Picturesque Trafalgar Square. A place where there is always entertainment. You can find many cozy restaurants such “A Cafe on the Square” and the “National Café” to sit and sip your hot chocolate.

Piccadilly Circus is like a mini version of Times Square in Manhattan. The vast billboards offer a colourful and fun atmosphere. In addition, you can find the famous statue of Eros and take a whole load of photos for your social media.

A WALK THROUGH HISTORY

The world-renowned British Museum is home to a vast collection of cultural artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, which dates to 196 BC, and Elgin Marbles, a group of Greek sculptures now known as Parthenon Sculptures is a must-visit.

The Trafalgar Square is also home to the National Gallery, the worldrenowned Art museum, which houses an impressive collection of history’s greatest artists. You can see Da Vinci or your favourite Van Gogh here. Admission is free as well.  Tate Modern is a contemporary museum housed in a converted power station home to an impressive Modern and Contemporary collection of Art worldwide.

If you are a fan of royal palaces, then “The Tower of London” which is my favourite historic castle on the River Thames was once a palace, a prison, and an execution base. You can also have access to see some crown jewels or stroll through the gardens.

THE QUEEN’S HOME

The most popular destination is Buckingham Palace. The official home of the late Queen. Visitors flock to see the changing of the guard ceremony. It is a fascinating walk to the Palace, and I recommend going early in the morning to get that perfect picture without the crowd hovering behind you. The walk to the Palace is mesmerising, with tall ancient trees on both sides of the roads.

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

St Paul’s Cathedral is a magnificent piece of architecture where you can get a panoramic view of the city when you climb up. The Cathedral dates back to the 17th Century, and at 365ft (111m) high, it was the tallest building

in London from 1710 to 1963. The dome is still one of the highest in the world. If you love ancient art and British architecture, this is a spot you should not miss.

FOR THE FANTASY LITERATURE FANS

Suppose you are a Sherlocks Holmes fan. Then, do not forget to visit the Sherlock Holmes Café in London. It’s a cozy cafe that will take you through the nostalgic journey of the expeditions of Sherlock Holmes.

Some 45 mins away from London city, you can visit the Magical Warner Bros Studio and experience the making of Harry Potter. You will be transported to the Magical Hogwarts and be able to walk in the footsteps of Hogwarts students and even set foot in the original sets of Platform 9 ¾ and Diagon Alley. A Harry Potter Fan myself, and I was in tears when I experienced the whole journey. You can purchase tickets from any central train station in London.

A GREAT PANORAMIC VIEW

The London Eye and the Shard are for visitors who prefer to see the panoramic view of the city. The London Eye is a Giant Ferris wheel, while the Shard is the tallest building in London, and you get to see stunning views from the 72nd floor. Prior booking may be necessary for the Shard. I prefer the London Eye as it helps you see the city differently.

HIDDEN GEMS OF LONDON AND OFF-THE-BEATEN PATH PLACES TO VISIT

London has lesser-known spots which are but a delight to the soul. Little Venice – The picturesque area in Maida Vale is known for its Venice-like canals, boats, and charming cafes. The Barbarian Conservatory holds the Hidden Oasis – home to 2000 species of tropical plants, exotic fish and birds.

Take advantage of the West End Musical shows running in various theatres across London. They are perfectly choreographed and prevalent amongst the tourists.

SHOPPING IN LONDON

Shopping is a must when you visit London. Some of our top picks are Oxford, Bond Street for designer wear, Notting Hill for boho chic’s.Selfridges, a shoppers’ paradise, and the iconic Harrods store, home to London’s first escalator, opened at Harrods in 1898. Harrods is considered a very statement store and worth visiting even if you are not planning to shop. Camden Market: North of London, a perfect shopping stop for thrifts, unique gifts, and various British street food. Another vibrant shopping destination is Covent Gardens, with local artisan shops, street performers, and multiple restaurants and shops. n

MARCHING ON IN MARCH

QH TAKES A SNEAK PEAK AT FIVE FILMS SLATED

FOR RELEASE THIS MONTH

Here’s a list of five new releases with the genre and synopsis of the plot for your viewing pleasure.

INSIDE

Thriller, Drama

Inside tells the story of Nemo, an art thief trapped in a New York penthouse after his heist doesn’t go as planned. Locked inside with nothing but priceless works of art, he must use all his cunning and invention to survive.

CREED III

Drama, Action

After dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed has been thriving in both his career and family life. When a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy, Damien Anderson, resurfaces after serving a long sentence in prison, he is eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face-off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damien – a fighter who has nothing to lose.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: HONOR AMONG THIEVES

Action, Fantasy, Comedy, Adventure

A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers undertake an epic heist to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves brings the rich world and playful spirit of the legendary roleplaying game to the big screen in a hilarious and action-packed adventure.

SHAZAM! FURY OF THE GODS

Action, Fantasy, Comedy

Billy Batson and his foster siblings, who transform into superheroes by saying "Shazam!" , are forced to get back into action and fight the Daughters of Atlas, who they must stop from using a weapon that could destroy the world.

BOSTON STRANGLER

Crime, History, Thriller

Reporters Loretta McLaughlin and Jean Cole bravely pursue the story of the Boston Strangler at great personal risk, putting their own lives on the line in their quest to uncover the truth.

THE BEST READS

QH MAKES A CHOICE SELECTION OF RELEASES FOR THE MONTH FOR YOUR READING PLEASURE

We encourage our followers to take the road to regular reading. It’s always good for the soul.

PARIS: THE MEMOIR

By Paris Hilton

Paris was the It Girl of the early aughts, her every move dissected and documented on the internet and social media. Now, Paris offers an unflinching and intimate memoir that reveals what it was really like to be in the middle of a changing cultural landscape, beloved and reviled at the same time.

ABOVE GROUND

By Clint Smith

This is Clint Smith’s latest book of poetry since 2016’s Counting Descent. Since then, many of us became familiar with his writing through the brilliant How the Word is Passed. Or maybe it’s his work for The Atlantic magazine. Smith has a way with words – to inform, inspire and push us to know the world and ourselves better. The poetry in Above Ground does all that. We are big fans of anyone who helps set our sights with compassion and an open heart to each other.

URBAN JUNGLE

By Ben Wilson

For those among us who are worried about the impact of climate change (and that would be just about all of us), the new book Urban Jungle arrives bringing a ray of hope. The author, an expert on urban development, surveys the recent developments in cities all over the world and concludes that many are returning to their natural state in ways that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions – and also make them far more enjoyable living spaces. “Green canopies, wildflowers, wildlife: the things that will help cities survive also make people happy.”

THE REAL WORK: ON THE MYSTERY OF MASTERY

By Adam Gopnik

Adam Gopnik, popular mainstay at The New Yorker, is in top form here. The Real Work is a well-researched and engaging narrative that examines how experts gain their proficiency.

YOUR BRAIN ON ART

By Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross.

For passionate artists and the patrons who love them, it sometimes feels as if the arts are in constant need of protection. And that there’s an unremitting set of demands from governments and the private sector for the arts to prove their value. To justify their existence. Or to otherwise submit to budget cuts, reduced hours, remnant spaces and worse. So hurray for the arrival of Your Brain on Art, written by two scientists who make a passionate case for the importance of the arts. This book is a “journey through the science of neuroaesthetics, which offers proof for how our brains and bodies transform when we participate in the arts — and how this knowledge can improve our health, enable us to flourish, and build stronger communities.”