MARCH 2024
Casting a spotlight on regional startup ecosystem
Ramadan: A period of spiritual training & struggle to sharpen the will
"Period architecture insights help create spaces with today’s needs honouring heritage"
Luxury reimagined: Mandarin Oriental Doha’s serviced apartments
From the desk
As we step into the sacred month of Ramadan, our March issue of QH is dedicated to
We delve into the world of fashion, particularly focusing on the intricacies of their inspiration and creative process, we explore how these designers infuse tradition Qatar 2024, a convergence of visionaries and innovators who are shaping the future of University, Qatar, graces our pages with a profound guest piece on the philosophical such as intermittent fasting, exercises tailored for this period, and innovative home
comprehensive listings from renowned hotels and restaurants across Doha, ensuring a QH remains committed to providing you with captivating insights and inspiration to
Warm regards,
on the cover March 2024 our team MARCH 2024 Casting a spotlight on regional startup ecosystem Ramadan: A period of spiritual training & struggle to sharpen the will "Period architecture insights help create spaces with today’s needs honouring heritage" Luxury reimagined: Mandarin Oriental Doha’s serviced apartments Contact Us Email: info@innov8.qa FOR MARKETING AND ADVERTISING: Email: a.haroon@innov8.qa m.parmar@innov8.qa Call: +974 55692471 +974 33325038 MANAGING EDITORS Azqa Haroon Manu Prmar SENIOR EDITOR Aparajita Mukherjee DEPUTY EDITOR & DIGITAL OFFICER Sara Naveed SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Rabab El–Sayed ART DIRECTOR Asad Chughtai
MANAGER Rabshan Malik PRINTED BY Gulf Publishing and Printing Company
DISTRIBUTIONS
March 2024 | QH | 7 Infocus
62
to savour
66 solutions provider 28 regimen & timings during 46 Sneak Peek
@qatarhappening
March 2024
Flavours
with
Insta Moments
CONTENTS
Trendy jalabiyas & kaftans by local and regional designers!
Curated by Fifty One East and on until April 11, the exhibition showcases the latest collections from both local and regional designers, featuring a diverse array of meticulously crafted pieces tailored for the upcoming Ramadan season.
WGalia Dirany lagallia
Why abaya design?
client preferences, aiming for a comprehensive range
Design evolution:
elements with contemporary
Design inspiration:
Empowerment line draws inspiration from feminine strength, grace, and contemporary style,
multifaceted nature during the sacred month of Ramadan, emphasising empowerment and
8 | QH | March 2024 Ramadan Fashion
QH
Fatima Asad lovahbyfatima
Why abaya design?
Design inspiration: resulting in fashion that captivates visually
Design evolution:
“To start with,
10 | QH | March 2024
Fashion
Ramadan
Reem Almana
keshtban
Design inspiration: culture, modern fashion trends, and diverse customer preferences, incorporating
Design evolution: “We evolved to meet changing trends, customer preferences, and textile advancements,
Why abaya design?
customers with a diverse range also customise to individual
12 | QH | March 2024 Ramadan Fashion
Lamees Ghanem
almalika_qatar
Design inspiration:
family gatherings, and the local traditions and cultural heritage, it aims to capture the essence of this special time while showcasing the
Design evolution:
elegance with traditional more complex and innovative fashion trends, culture,
and modernity, featuring intricate details and personal
Why abaya design?
Designing them respects
overcoming their perceived scope through innovation,
Ramadan Fashion
14 | QH | March 2024
Casting a spotlight on regional startup ecosystem
The inaugural Web Summit in Qatar concluded last month with 15000+ attendees, 400+ investors and 1000+ entrepreneurs, establishing new connections, sharing insights and securing funds, with a dynamic lineup of sessions featuring industry luminaries and thought leaders from around the globe.
16 | QH | March 2024 News Nuggets
Arepresented in the event – the largest gathering of startups ever in the Middle East, held at the Doha
37 percent women attendees, 30 percent sovereign wealth fund, would invest more
eight startups
regional venture capital funds, aimed at
international venture capital funds and
model integrating personal and digital
Summit Qatar 2024, touring the pavilions of several major international tech
the heart of any political process remains who have deeply held prejudices, fears and Qatar’s representation came from Qatar, 20 percent from Africa and 50 percent from the wider MENA leading early-stage startups to go head-to-
people who are reshaping the world to
Amazon, Meta, Shell, Huawei, Snapchat, alongside Qatari entities, from the Qatar
The trending resource
the largest funds in the world, attending to explore investment opportunities in one of
March 2024 | QH | 17 News Nuggets
Photos credit: The Peninsula; Gulf Times
Bridging diverse cultures in the global fashion capital
Omni The Label, founded by a European expat with over two decades in the Middle East, debuted at the Paris Fashion Week.
18 | QH | March 2024 Fashion Board
Fashion Board
hoods and another, a summer style with calligraphy, including features in Vogue aims to challenge stereotypes and promote cultural exchange through its mix of Middle Eastern traditions
Social Media:
20 | QH | March 2024
Celebrate love!
22 | QH | March 2024 Fashion Board
stunning selection of diamond earrings, from
Find the jewellery on mariatash.com, in the Maria Tash Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates Boutiques (UAE).
Ajmal unveils Aristocrat Coral & Coastal scents
Sthe glamorous launch featured live coral reefs and coastlines, the event capture the tranquil yet impactful essence innovation in the fragrance industry with memories, solidifying their status as
Ajmal Perfumes' dazzling event at Lumi Beach, the Maldives, recently introduced Aristocrat Coral and Coastal and the pronounced impact of Indian heritage with distinct fragrances evoking feminine grace and masculine vigour.
24 | QH | March 2024 Fashion Board
26 | QH | March 2024
Board
Everyday elegance N Fashion
The journey of a home solutions provider
In conversation with Sara Naveed, Azhar Sajan, director, Casa Milano talks us through expansion and scope, materials” it uses –meticulous craftsmanship, innovation, the legacy of the brands that it partners with, in a seamless blend of functionality & aesthetics; technology & versatility, innovation, and customisation.
28 | QH | March 2024 Luxury Homes
Azhar Sajan,
QH: What prompted Casa Milano's expansion into a full range of home solutions?
Sajan: full range of home solutions was driven and meet the growing interest among residents in renovating their homes with opening of the new showroom in Doha, a renowned luxury sanitary ware and tiles the art of luxe living into every home,
QH: How does Casa Milano select its exclusive brands and designs?
Sajan:
meticulous, focusing on craftsmanship,
criteria include the uniqueness of design, modern functionality, ensuring that each product meets our high standards for
QH: How does Casa Milano blend Italian design with modern technology?
Sajan: with modern technology is at the core incorporating the latest innovations in experience that enhances their living
QH: How does Casa Milano enhance customer experience with design mock-ups?
Sajan:
customers to visualise their chosen designs customers to explore and interact with providing a visual preview, we empower tailored to their personal taste and the
QH: What strategies does Casa Milano use to meet Qatar's diverse design preferences?
Sajan: range of meticulously crafted products
that cater for the varied tastes and
traditional and contemporary design preferences in Qatar, our selection process prioritises versatility, innovation, and distinct preferences and requirements
industry to Qatar ensures that our customers have access to the forefront of
March 2024 | QH | 29
Luxury Homes
Ramadan: A period of spiritual training & struggle to sharpen the will
In Islam, prayers are essentially performed by the heart while prayer or act of worship has spiritual and physical levels or inner and outer dimensions, writes Recep Senturk*.
qibla which qibla and the outer dimensions of devotional actions may jeopardise the
Guest Speak
30 | QH | March 2024
something which is haram refraining from even allowing such an idea to come to the heart
mundane attachments and passions to turn it completely to Allah
freedom from connections to, and dependencies on, the mortal and temporary creation through exclusive spiritual attachment to the
the existence of a sharp will against the opposite stimuli and
struggle comes with its rewards in this world as a spiritual joy
*The writer is the dean, College of Islamic Studies, Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
Speak
Guest
haram haram
March 2024 | QH | 31
Embrace Ramadan simply but meaningfully!
ways to honour the traditions and spirituality of this sacred Islamic month,
RQatar, Ramadan commences around March 9, 2024, and concludes around April 8, 2024, culminating in Eid Al Fitr, or
Enhance your decor with dates
Illuminate with lanterns
32 | QH | March 2024
Fragrance your living space Ramadan Spirit
Ramadan Spirit
Share Iftar with your neighbour
Send Eid greetings
Eid cards are a lovely way to share the holiday spirit with loved ones and colleagues and even express gratitude to community Eid cards, especially for elder relatives, to create meaningful your children in the process – your personal touch will not go
Engage kids creatively
Gift with care
Share generously
Make Ramadan memorable for kids
34 | QH | March 2024
Best Ramadan decor ideas for your home
Easy Ramadan decor ideas for your dining table, walls, and outdoor spaces.
Home Decor
amadan decor sets the festive mood for worship
36 | QH | March 2024
Metal freestanding Ramadan moon décor
Home Decor
2-piece Ramadan tray set
3-piece Ramadan tray set
March 2024 | QH | 37
Moon macrame wall décor
Places to buy Ramadan décor items in Qatar
Al Rawnaq
Al Shaheen Est.
Ansar Gallery
Daiso Qatar
Dragon Mart
Dollar Plus
Hema Qatar
Home Centre
Home Box
Homes R Us
IKEA Qatar
Lulu Hypermarket
Souq Waqif & Souq Al
Wakrah stores
Souq Al Baladi
Home Decor 38 | QH | March 2024
Ramadan lights decorations
Ramadan islamic
Ramadan prayer rug
Fasting in Ramadan: A spiritual journey
Throughout the sacred month of Ramadan, observed in the ninth month of spiritual practice. From dawn to dusk, for 30 days, Muslims refrain from consuming food and drink as an obligatory act of faith.
iven that Ramadan follows the timing shifts approximately eleven days earlier each year with the solarMuslims encounter Ramadan across reminder for Muslims to empathise with those with health constraints, pregnant or
Whys of Ramadan
40 | QH | March 2024
Whys of Ramadan
Rituals of Ramadan fasting
Sweets are also quite popular, often served alongside tea or
iftar and suhoor, with a focus on staying hydrated, especially
However, fried foods and sugary treats, which are common during
Celebrating Eid Al Fitr: Traditions and culinary delights
Celebrating with traditions and generosity
Garangao, a local tradition for kids
42 | QH | March 2024
Whys of Ramadan
What sets intermittent fasting apart from Ramadan fasting?
While nutrition and exercise are vital for health, other factors also matter. Intermittent fasting
hose who follow intermittent fasting year-round and intend to fast during Ramadan might
Ramadan fasting: A holistic approach
During Ramadan, the ninth month of
pounds, including cognitive and
Hydration and nutrient-rich foods are essential for maintaining health and humility, and spiritual introspection for Muslims, fostering gratitude and empathy sacred reminder of faith and community solidarity despite the annual lunar
Exploring intermittent fasting: A health and
weight loss?
Food undergoes digestion in the gut,
grains, are swiftly converted into sugar for
a decrease in insulin levels, prompting fat cells to release stored sugar for energy
What is permissible to eat during IF?
During fasting periods, you are allowed
The basics of IF
Types of intermittent fasting
• Alternate-day fasting: Alternating 24-hour fasts with normal eating
• Whole day fasting:
• method, with limited calories on two
• Time-restricted feeding: Fasting
• The warrior diet: Eating small amounts throughout the day, with one
rich foods such as whole grains, leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean protein, oversized fried items to promote weight
Most research suggests that intermittent fasting can aid in weight loss and reduce fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and leptin levels, as well as
studies show that patients under medical
Could IF enhance your health?
• Memory and thinking: Research
• Heart health: various heart-related measurements,
• Physical performance: Studies lead to fat loss while preserving muscle
• Weight management and diabetes:
44 | QH | March 2024
Ace your workout regimen & timings during Ramadan!
Being mindful while exercising during Ramadan is crucial. Here's what you should understand.
During the holy month of Ramadan, eating and sleeping
Some may plan their exercise routines in advance while fasting, with
Studies have indicated that fasting for an entire month without engaging in physical activity can lead to a decline in overall strength
What exercise routine works best during Ramadan?
light-intensity cardio sessions, lasting 30 minutes, every other day
Ramadan Fitness
46 | QH | March 2024
The best workout times during Ramadan
90 minutes before sunset
cooler part of the day, allowing you to low-intensity exercises such as resistance training, with low repetitions and weights,
Post evening meal on a full stomach, an hour after iftar is
QH
adding extra food to your meal plan on
session and leaving time for additional
Between 3am and 4am
Between 11pm and 2am
For those who prefer late-night activities, cooler temperatures compared to daytime
during exercise and refuel afterward to sustain energy levels for the day ahead, providing an energising start to your
exercises during Ramadan.
Tips for staying consistent with workouts during Ramadan
•
• Avoid aggressive and high-intensity exercises
•
• exhaustion, allowing you to repeat the process the next day
•
• • •
Fitness
Ramadan
March 2024 | QH | 47
Fitness
Moderate to high-intensity training
Low-intensity training before Iftar
• •
•
• Jogging
Strength training for building and maintaining muscle mass after iftar
• Squats
• Deadlift
•
•
• Shoulder press
•
•
Note: Recommended to have two separate days of rest between training days for recovery.
Adjusting workouts for fasting schedules
• Opt for indoor activities to minimise
• Schedule lower intensity cardio and light
• weightlifting sessions throughout the
•
•
• • Recommended exercises during Ramadan
•
• • •
48 | QH | March 2024
Photos credits: Aspire Active and Anytime Fitness (Qatar) Find it: Aspire Active, Al Waab Street, 23833, Doha, Qatar Anytime Fitness, Mall of Qatar Branch, Doha, Qatar Instagram handle: Ramadan
Radisson Blu Hotel Doha
Early bird dining delights at The Italian Job!
Find It: Call: Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas
Experience Ramadan bliss: Iftar at Souk Kitchen
Find It: Call:
50 | QH | March 2024 Food Listings
Park Hyatt Doha
Timeless traditions, modern elegance
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
Experience Ramadan joy
March 2024 | QH | 51
It:
Food Listings
Find
Call/WhatsApp:
Hilton Doha The Pearl
Discover Arabian hospitality rotating menu, every visit promises new culinary delights,
Experience dining at 'Layali Katara' Ramadan tent
Find It:
Call:
Find It:
52 | QH | March 2024
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort - a GHM Hotel
Listings
Call/WhatsApp: Food
Sharq Village & Spa, Ritz Carlton Hotel Doha
Sihr Al Sharq: Indulge in the Ramadan tent experience
Find It:
Call:
Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
Experience Ramadan splendour at Al Nafourah Garden
yourself in meticulously crafted decorations and an enchanting
Find It:
Call/WhatsApp:
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
Celebrate Ramadan at The Shahrazad Garden
international delights from the live stations, set amidst the tooth with authentic Ramadan desserts and local sweets, and guests will enjoy live performances, while private majlises are
Find It:
Call:
54 | QH | March 2024
Food Listings
Mandarin Oriental, Doha Experience unforgettable Ramadan nights
Find It:
Call:
Sheraton Grand Doha
Ramadan dining delights
specials and live music, daily from 9pm to 2am at QR295 per
Find It:
Call/WhatsApp:
March 2024 | QH | 55
Food Listings
Le Meridien City Center, Doha Experience Ramadan Iftar
featuring a special selection of traditional and international dishes,
Find It:
Call:/WhatsApp:
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residencies Doha Celebrate Ramadan with progressive Indian cuisine at Dalchini
Find It: Residencies Doha
Call/WhatsApp:
56 | QH | March 2024 Food Listings
Talking To Period architecture insights help create spaces with honouring heritage
interior design of Highness Qatar, a consulting agency in architecture, engineering and interior design
58 | QH | March 2024
Adel Kassab, head of interior design of Highness Engineering
engineering and interior design with an impressive product
Aparajita Mukherjee about his design approach and philosophy, and more importantly, his design process.
reativity is at the heart of any of interior design of Highness innovation into his designs at Highness diverse perspectives, and encouraging learning, user-centric design principles, and cutting-edge technology to push the imaginative solutions that exceed client
exclusive projects such as hotels, resorts, museums or palaces, study in period
my research into period architecture is fundamental in designing palaces and
explains that it enriches our understanding of historical context, inspires authentic and fosters meaningful engagement with
period architecture, we create spaces that honour heritage while meeting
March 2024 | QH | 59
Talking To
Talking To
Design process
analysis, we translate these concepts into reality, employing advanced engineering
including nature, culture, and technology, to create thoughtful and impactful
engaging with emerging technologies, attending conference and international while meeting the evolving needs of our
An important project
out is their Seychelles project, which, vision, passion, and expertise in the to shaping the architectural landscape of QH, we integrate innovative approaches, sensitivity into our projects, we aim to set environment and leaving a lasting legacy
Short Shots
Favourite travel destination: islands
Most favourite book: The Madman, Project of pride: was challenging on all levels, and it in Qatar
leverages cutting-edge technology
On his inspiration to his designs, and his method of staying ahead of trends in the
Best advice received: Unwinding after a long day: Staying seeing nothing to reset
60 | QH | March 2024
Labour of love! Talking
QH: What led you to start this business?
Love Lavishly, the handmade soap company, started by Anju Philip is more of a journey. Philip talks us through the start, the hurdles and where she is today with her dream project.
Philip: a lot of time to myself and wanted to do something that was upon this concept of handmade soaps that are made safe for
Infocus
To 62 | QH | March 2024
Talking To
QH: What sets your company apart from other handmade soap manufacturers?
Philip:
QH: Talk us through your learnings since you started.
Philip: multiple online classes and one physical course to help me learn and
QH: Organic ingredients cost more – and since your company aim is not to compromise on quality, how do you address the pricing aspect?
Philip:
QH: What are your medium-term plans for the company
are researching a new product and will soon introduce it
Philip:
Infocus
• Sanitiser • Dish wash soap
of six new products
64 | QH | March 2024
Flavours to savour with top-gear entertainment!
Nestled atop the Waldorf Astoria Lusail, The Highmore Doha is not just a rooftop lounge but an elevated experience that promises panoramic vistas, gastronomic delights, and moments of sheer luxury. From the moment you step foot into this opulent space, you're greeted by an ambience that exudes sophistication and charm.
Foody Tales 66 | QH | March 2024
Mains to savour
STantalising starters
For the main course, immerse yourself in a world of culinary chips, and tartare sauce, or elevate your dining experience with Tempting desserts
Entertainment galore
The key takeaways
after a long day, this rooftop lounge is sure to leave a lasting
Foody Tales
Find It: Call: 68 | QH | March 2024
Azqa Haroon
Luxury reimagined: Mandarin Oriental apartments
Immerse yourself in the epitome of opulence and sophistication with a stay at Mandarin Oriental, Doha's exquisite, serviced apartments. Recently, QH had the
70 | QH | March 2024 High Life
March 2024 | QH | 71 High Life
sanctuary of sophistication and warmth for guests during their
is the seamless integration of hotel facilities into the residential
72 | QH | March 2024
Life Location and amenities teeming with innovative dining experiences, eclectic cafes, and a
High
Find It: Downtown Doha, Doha, Qatar Call:
End note
Radisson Blu Hotel Doha
Exclusive Cabana Club membership discounts
with water slide, Jacuzzi, steam rooms, sauna rooms, and well-equipped
Find It:
Call/WhatsApp:
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas Escape to paradise
Plus, for added convenience, enjoy a complimentary return shuttle from Villaggio Mall to the resort, ensuring hassle-free access
Park Hyatt Doha Experience serenity
Find It: Call:
miss this opportunity to unwind and replenish your senses amidst Find It: Call:
74 | QH | March 2024 Spa Listings
Sharq Village & Spa, Ritz Carlton Hotel Doha
Revitalise with pampering massages
tranquil surroundings of the spa, leaving you feeling refreshed and
Find It: Call:
Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
Rejuvenate at Club Olympus
Find It: Call:
Mandarin Oriental, Doha
Exhilarating nurturing massage treatment
with the nurturing massage treatment designed to ease physical tailored to provide relief from traumatic experiences or stressful
Find It: Call:
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
Discover serenity with Hammam harmony
Le Meridien City Center, Doha
Spa
March 2024 | QH | 75 Spa Listings
Find It: Call:
Find It:
Call/WhatsApp:
Experience Ramadan uniquely at the Journey to Silk Road Ramadan Tent
Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha unveils its mesmerising outdoor Ramadan tent, cashing in on the historic trade route.
team at Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha has curated a menu that features mouthwatering dishes from various regions along the
memories as they enjoy our wide array of iftar and suhoor
76 | QH | March 2024 High Life
Experience unmatched luxury!
programme for corporate entities and employees, launched at an exclusive event at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha this month.
Aaccommodations, dining, spas, catering, meeting rooms, event spaces, medical care with Northwestern Medicine,
Properties and Alfardan Hospitality, expressed his enthusiasm
Extension of existing focus
At Alfardan, the aim is to enhance value for commercial tenants
March 2024 | QH | 77 High Life
Sustainable driving: Blue Lake Motors and ZEEKR leading the way
On Wheelz
78 | QH | March 2024
Blue Lake Motors, under Al Mana Holding, partnered with ZEEKR for an exclusive preview at automotive future.
ZHisham Saleh Al Mana, chairman and managing director of Al
our commitment to innovation, luxury, and environmental
ZEEKR X: Urban utility and elegance
sealing strips and frameless doors, it achieves a seamless transition
Equipped with a 50W wireless charging pad, soft-reading lights,
ZEEKR 001: Revolutionising electric mobility
the mould of conventional EVs, prioritising excitement over mere panoramic glass roof providing exceptional thermal insulation,
cutting-edge features such as lane centreing and automatic lane
March 2024 | QH | 79 On Wheelz
Khachanov crowned Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2024 winner
Karen Khachanov of Russia clinched the 2024 Qatar
80 | QH | March 2024 Sports Buzz
ExxonMobil Open Tennis
Open 2024
Khachanov’s journey
player Emil Ruusuvuori retired due to overcame Australian Alexei Popyrin 2-0 to
Open in 2022 and the Australian Open in trail
overcame the top-seeded and world
March 2024 | QH | 81 Sports Buzz
Photo credits: Qatar Tennis Federation, The Peninsula Qatar
Match stats: