Seventy-five young enterprising Qataris have showcased their start-ups at 30 pop-up stores set up at Mall of Qatar as an important feature of this year’s Shop Qatar organised by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA).

The participating start-ups display a wide range of products from arts and crafts to chocolates and gifts to perfumes and clothing. One of the unique start-ups is university student Maryam Al Maged’s Wrapping Station which she established over a year ago to fill a gap in the marketplace. “I do gift wrapping, customised cards, wedding invites and greeting cards. It’s a new business I started one and a half years ago because this is something we lack in Doha. We don’t have a proper wrapping shop where people can have their presents wrapped decently and creatively,” Al Maged told local media recently.

This is the first time Al Maged, who is in her senior year as fashion design student at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), has participated at the event to showcase her passion for gift wrapping she developed at a tender age. “I do fabric and paper wrapping. I learned paper wrapping by watching YouTube when I was a child while I picked up the idea of fabric wraps when I had a trip to Japan; there they use fabrics to wrap lots of their gift items. After that I started inventing my own wraps,” she said.

Currently, she does everything alone by hand, but plans to have her own staff and put up a shop once she finishes university. “I do everything by hand. Even the designs I make are done by hand. I don’t like to just take from the Internet. like to do everything from scratch,” she said, adding she sources materials from overseas like India. “So far it’s so successful that it gets so busy that I have to sometimes decline orders. Hopefully, I won’t face this problem once I have my own staff,” she said. On her expectations at the festival, she said: “I’m not aiming for profits. It’s mostly for exposure. I want people to know about my business and what I do.” 

Patrick H. Chahine, PR and Marketing Manager at Mall of Qatar, which is hosting the pop-up shops lauded the QTA initiative as a crucial step towards diversification of the country’s economy. “We want to support the local community by offering a lot of space  in our luxury area for the 30 pop-up stores for one full month. It is very important for the diversification of the economy to support the local talents and it is also important to Mall of Qatar as it carries the name of the nation,” said Chahine. “The idea was to gather the pop-up stores in one area so people will have a complete experience of the local brands and for the convenience of the visitors. We are hosting more pop-up shops compared last year which is very good because there are more choices for every taste,” he added.

Shop Qatar has definitely brought footfall to Mall of Qatar, he said, adding there are more tourists from Kuwait and Oman that visit the mall compared to the previous edition of the festival. He praised QTA’s strong marketing campaign and positioning of Qatar as a preferred destination on the international level evident in the increasing interest generated from countries beyond the region. The Pop-up shops run until February 7 at Mall of Qatar.

Following his successful Doha debut at Shop Qatar’s International Fashion Show in January, award-winning Spanish fashion designer, Alejandro Resta, stunned fashion connoisseurs at the opening of the first-ever Spring/Summer Fashion Festival at Mall of Qatar (MoQ) last night.

Resta showcased 10 looks comprising demi-couture designs celebrating spring and summer with their delicate floral designs exuding the feel of the seasons. “We welcome everyone to the opening of Mall of Qatar’s first-ever Spring/Summer Fashion Festival.  Tonight we are hosting Alejandro Resta, an amazing fashion designer from Spain because we want to create an international feel to this festival,” Patrick Hage-Chahine, PR and Events Manager at MoQ told local media at the launch event.

The mall is hosting three fashion shows per day dedicated to women’s, men’s, and children’s collections along with a variety of interactive and fashion focused activities. “For over ten days, we will have three daily fashion shows from more than 20 of our brands as well as international designers. The idea is to showcase Spring/Summer collection to our visitors,” he said. The fashion shows will display some of the visitors’ favourite brands at Mall of Qatar and exquisite Spring/Summer collections from international designers such as Ali Al Khechen and Nizar Roumani from Lebanon; Alejandro Resta and Daniel Oporto of Los Angeles as well as Qatar-based Qlabel.

There will also be other activities running alongside the fashion shows until March 31 in different rotundas including a kids’ mini catwalk, a make-up tutorial booth, and womenswear, menswear, and children’s clothing displays throughout the mall. On the choice of Resta to open the festival, Hage-Chahine said “He is talented and young, and we want to support young rising talents.” Resta was one of the famous international designers whose designs featured at a fashion show which served as a highlight of the second edition of the month-long Shop Qatar presented by Qatar Tourism Authority.

In his Doha debut, Resta presented 15 of his designs from his ‘Candy’ collection inspired by his late grandmother whom he considered a great influence to him getting into the world of fashion. Earlier, Resta revealed plans of launching a Spanish-style collection of abayas, which have made a good and lasting impression on him, as well as opening a boutique in Doha, where he has a growing client base. Apart from Resta, last night’s show also featured stunning collections by Sacoor Brothers and Qlabel. Vero Moda, River Island, Riva, Giordano, Bugatti, Levi’s, TopShop and Armani Exchange are some of the other brands which will take to the runway at the upcoming shows at the festival.

Alfardan Automobiles, the official BMW Group importer in Qatar, has welcomed the eagerly anticipated BMW X2 to its showroom. With a design oozing individuality from every pore and a sporty suspension set-up, the BMW X2 pushes back boundaries, puts a firework under old habits and brings previously uncharted levels of driving pleasure to this vehicle segment at Mall of Qatar.

Rabih Ataya, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles, commented: “We have been waiting with great enthusiasm to reveal the all new BMW X2 to the Qatari market and are thrilled that it’s finally here. This Sports Activity Coupe truly goes above and beyond any rival past or present in bringing joy and driving pleasure to the segment. It’s a car that appeals primarily to a young, extrovert and active target group who value individuality and genuine fun at the wheel. We invite everyone to join us for the grand unveiling to get themselves acquainted with the new model.”

The petrol engine offered from launch: the BMW X2 sDrive20i petrol model with 141 kW / 192 hp (fuel consumption combined: 5.9 – 5.5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 134 – 126 g/km)* The bold, uncompromising nature of the new BMW X2 is evident at first sight. This vehicle stands out from the crowd in any setting. Even next to its bigger brothers, the BMW X4 and X6, the BMW X2 makes a wholly distinctive impression. The main contributing factor here is the car’s exterior design, which essentially combines the fast-moving body language and low-slung proportions of a coupe with the robust construction of a BMW X model.

“The BMW X2 represents an expression of modern and extrovert vehicle dynamics,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design, in describing the new BMW X2. “Its standalone vehicle concept brings a new, fresh and exciting facet of the BMW to the compact segment.”

On the road, the BMW X2 has the poise of an athlete in peak condition. This is true for the basic version and even more so for M Sport and M Sport X models. The BMW X2 M Sport X combines design elements from BMW M and the BMW X family. Eloquent looks, dynamic proportions. Above all, it is the BMW X2’s proportions which create its expressive, dynamic demeanour. It is shorter and more than seven centimetres lower than the BMW X1 yet has the same wheelbase. Featuring short overhangs, it also has a stretched, coupe-style roofline and slim window graphic.

A distinctive character that departs from the BMW script. Many of the design details emphasise the BMW X2’s standalone nature while simultaneously and unequivocally signalling its membership of the X family. The time-honoured BMW kidney grille is just one example, turning the familiar trapezoidal shape on its head and instead widening from top to bottom. This is the first time this design detail has seen the light of day on a modern BMW. Another striking detail more typical of a BMW coupe is the placement of the brand logo on the C-pillars. Reminiscent of legendary BMW models such as the 2000 CS and 3.0 CSL, this is another element that underscores the sporting aspirations of the BMW X2.

To enjoy the warm spirit of giving, Mall of Qatar is hosting a line-up of family activities and special decoration throughout the mall this Ramadan.

Every day from 7pm until midnight, kids are invited to learn Arabic calligraphy, create prayer pads, lanterns and much more in a colorful Arts and Crafts area along with a henna station dedicated to creating beautiful designs. In addition, giant traditional Dama and X.O games will delight the kids while everyone can enjoy hospitality in the modern yet traditional Majlis and participate in a daily broadcast from Qatar Radio at 9pm in the Luxury Court.

“The spirit of Ramadan can be seen throughout the mall and we have set up fun-filled activities and lights for visitors of all ages to enjoy. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience and live the holy month of Ramadan at Mall of Qatar and wish you all a Ramadan Mubarak,” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

On the 29^thand 30^th of May, Mall of Qatar will be hosting educative plays on the traditional Garangao celebration at 9pm; The events will include gifts of sweets for all the children.

Mall of Qatar, the destination that has it all and is committed to bringing unique experiences to its visitors, launches Qatar’s first ever mall gift card.

Mall of Qatar Gift Card is a prepaid card, powered by Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB), available in selected denominations from QAR 100 to 5000, that can be used at all Mall of Qatar stores, restaurants, kiosks and entertainment centers – even at the Mall’s luxury AlRayyan Hotel.

Mall of Qatar believes its Gift Card represents the perfect gift solution – taking the worry out of gift-giving by enabling the recipient to make their own choice, from any Mall outlet. Gift Cards can be purchased at Customer Service Desks and provide a convenient payment method, secured by a chip and 4-digit security code. Cardholders can even check their remaining balance at any ATM. To celebrate the launch of the gift card, Mall of Qatar is offering two amazing customer promotions; From 31^st May to 17^th June, early-bird purchasers will enjoy a ‘Shop & Get’ reward – receiving a free additional Card preloaded with QAR 100, for every QAR 500 that they spend on Gift Cards.

And across the Mall, a ‘Shop & Win’ promotion will give anyone who spends QAR 300 at any of the retailers to enter an exciting draw for a chance to win a jackpot Gift Card, preloaded with QAR 100,000. “We pride ourselves in continuously raising the standards of our offerings to truly deliver immersive customer experiences. We’re happy to introduce the Mall of Qatar gift card and even more excited to see the many happy faces participating and winning with our Shop & Win and Shop & Get campaigns” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

D. Anand, General Manager of QIB's Personal Banking Group said, “We value the relationship we have with our partners and we are always working towards meeting their needs by offering them tailored products and services that help grow their businesses. Our experience combined with our platforms enabled us to support Mall of Qatar to launch the first of its kind Prepaid Gift Card which we are confident will enrich the customers’ shopping experience.”

For more information, please visit one of the customer service desks at the mall or www.mallofqatar.com.qa

Qatar Insurance Group, Qatar’s flagship insurance powerhousehas signed a partnership agreement with the Mall of Qatar (MOQ), the leading national mall of the Nation.

The signing ceremony, which was held yesterday at the QIC Headquarters in West Bay, was attended by Deputy Group President & CEO QIC MENA region, Mr. Salem Al Mannai, CEO of the Mall of Qatar, Mr. Stuart Elder and other QIC officials. Through this strategic partnership, QIC Group will promote the World Cup FIFA 2018, which will be broadcasted across the World Cup Fan Zone located at the Oasis in the Ground Floor of the Mall of Qatar.

As the flagship insurer in Qatar and in the MENA region, QIC Group takes pride in providing support to all sporting activities. Owing to its repute of being the most popular sport worldwide, the FIFA serves asan excellent platform for demonstrating true sportsmanship to a global audience. Echoing the same philosophy, QIC believes that sports can bring people together and create social and cultural platforms, which is a precursor for building a sustainable nation.

Speaking on this important partnership, Mr.Salem Al Mannai, Deputy Group President and CEO QIC MENA stated, “As a strong supporter of the FIFA World Cup, this partnership with MOQis yet another demonstration of QIC Group’songoing commitment to sporting events. It also underpins our involvement and effective support in realizing the four pillars of Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030.” He further added, “Capitalizing on this partnership, we would also like to cast a spotlight on QIC Group’s growth trajectory and expanding global footprint through a corporate video that will be played at the Mega Screens in the MOQ ahead of the matches.”

QIC Group’s corporate video is an immersive visual that has captured the evolution of QIC from being a domestic insurer to an insurance powerhouse of international repute. Notably, the video also highlights QIC Group’s strategy of diversification and ways of fulfilling its vision of being ranked amongst the global top 50 insurers.” Mr. Stuart Elder, CEO of Mall of Qatar stated, “We are delighted to sign this strategic partnership agreement with QIC Group. As a leading national mall, MOQ is constantly committed to developing partnerships with major entities in Qatar to ensure that the World Cup FIFA 2018 serves as an effective platform to bring people together and share good times.”

Mall of Qatar invites all football fans to experience the excitement of every World Cup match live on the giant LED screens at the Ooredoo Oasis Stage. Shoppers are invited to watch every goal and see history in the making whilst cheering on their favourite teams from the 14^th of June until the 15^th of July.

Fans will be able to get in the spirit by watching every match from Mall of Qatar’s very own fan zone, sponsored by QNB and QIC, or over a bite to eat with family and friends at one of the numerous restaurants and cafes in the Oasis on the ground floor or the first floor. A dedicated kids zone will entertain children daily from 1pm to 10pm with face painting, PlayStation area, creative workshops and more. “We can’t wait to share the excitement and passion of all shoppers during the World Cup.  Thanks to QNB and QIC we have been able to provide the perfect area for fans of every nation to come together and experience the thrill of the game live on the amazing screens at the Ooredoo Oasis Stage, all while looking forward to 2022” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

World Cup fever is just one part of Mall of Qatar’s Eid Al-Fitr events, including Dora’s Friendship Fiesta, Dora’s Rainforest Mission, a live interactive TV kids show with Al Rayyan TV at the luxury court, and as part of the Qatar Summer Festival organized by Qatar Tourism Authority, roaming artists like The Fluffy Bears, Aladdin & the Genie, and the Qatari Ardha dance will entertain kids throughout the mall and shoppers can enter three raffle draws for a chance to win one of 27 cash prizes worth QR2mn or a Lamborghini Hurricane (2018 model) super car for every QR200 spent at any of the retailers.

In line with its commitment to providing one of a kind entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages, Mall of Qatar is delighted to announce that Dora The Explorer and her friends will be performing on the Ooredoo stage at the Oasis this Eid Al-Fitr.

Dora The Explorer will take visitors on an amazing adventure, exploring Friendship Fiesta. With Boots, The Bubble Guppies, Diego and PAW Patrol’s Chase and Marshall, kids will find their way to this one of a kind celebration. In addition, kids will enjoy Dora’s Rainforest Mission at the adventure activity area, located at West Gate 2. What’s more, Dora, Boots & Diego are getting ready for their Rainforest Mission. Little visitors will help them pack everything they might need on their journey into a giant backpack. They will also get the chance to search for hidden objects, have fun while overcoming various obstacles and get creative with Dora’s fun workshops.

“We are very excited to announce our wonderful Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.  We look forward to welcoming families to the mall to see Dora The Explorer & her friends to enjoy this special, first time in Qatar, show.  We are also showing every World Cup game live on our Ooredoo Oasis stage.  These two amazing events, along with all our other Eid-Al Fitr activities continue Mall of Qatar’s commitment to providing the best entertainment in Qatar.” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

Fun mall-wide activities for all the family will be part of Mall of Qatar’s Eid Al-Fitr events, including every World Cup game shown on our giant screens, a live interactive TV kids show with Al Rayyan TV at the luxury court, and as part of the Qatar Summer Festival organized by Qatar Tourism Authority, roaming artists like The Fluffy Bears, Aladdin & the Genie, and the Qatari Ardha dance will entertain kids throughout the mall and shoppers can enter three raffle draws for a chance to win one of 27 cash prizes worth QR2mn or a Lamborghini Hurricane (2018 model) super car for every QR200 spent at any of the retailers.

The Embassy of Portugal in Doha, in partnership with Mall of Qatar and Al Tawfeeq Travel, bring you, for the first time in Doha, the Portugal Week between June 20^th and 25^th with a series of activities including unique live performances.

Inaugurated by H.E. the Ambassador of Portugal, Mr. António Tânger, the Portugal Week will delight Mall of Qatar’s visitors with one of the most famous Portuguese bands: 7 Saias. From June 20^th until 24^th7 Saias will perform 3 times a day at 2:30pm, 5:30pm and 8:30pm on the Ooredoo stage. Throughout their 8 years of existence and after having released six albums they have enchanted Portugal and international audiences with their traditional instruments and joy, promising a taste of Portugal at each show. Packed with activities and surprises for all the family to enjoy, the cultural booth located East Gate 3 will give visitors an array of information about the country’s best destinations, tours and visas procedures. “We look forward to see you there to celebrate together a world of culture and entertainment!” said H.E. the Ambassador of Portugal, Mr. António Tânger.

Also, football fans will be able to get in the spirit by watching the Portugal matches with Morocco and Iran from Mall of Qatar’s very own fan zone, sponsored by QNB and QIC, live on the giant LED screens at the Ooredoo Oasis Stage. “We are delighted to be working with The Embassy of Portugal and Al Tawfeeq travel on this new and unique event. We can’t wait for our shoppers to enjoy these authentic Portuguese experiences and visit on this occasion our Portuguese retailers: Sacoor Brothers, Nando’s, Parfois and Salsa.” added Stuart Elder, CEO of Mall of Qatar.

Pottery Barn Kids has unveiled its ‘Back-to-School’ Collection with a creative line-up of must-have school accessories – including backpacks, lunchboxes and water bottles for the little ones.

Popular collections include the ‘Disney Frozen’ collection featuring best-loved characters from the film, including Anna, Elsa, Hans and everyone’s favourite snowman Olaf.

For kids looking for a slightly different style, the Mackenzie backpacks are the perfect buy for the pre-kindergarten to the pre-teen years. The backpacks come loaded with design details like ergonomic padding, side pockets and sturdy zippers – perfect for rough and tough usage. It also has a reinforced bottom and extra buckles for added convenience and safety. There are also trendy, girly designs – including glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs, shiny metallic hearts and glittery designs and details that are hard to find anywhere else. For kids looking for action-packed school gear and for those fussy about their favourite film and comic book characters, there are Avengers, Justice League and Star Wars-themed backpacks to choose from, with favourite characters emblazoned on the front.

The perfect accompaniment to the Mackenzie backpack is the Mackenzie lunchbox which is durable and re-usable. Made of shatter-resistant plastic, it is designed to resist stain and scratches – and keeps food fresh and healthy. There is also a colourful lunch bag collection that comes in a host of colourful designs and cool patterns – so that kids will always look forward to their lunch. A backpack would be incomplete without a water bottle. Pottery Barn Kids has a funky collection of bottles with leak-free push up lids that are easy for little hands to use, a removable straw and a locking lid to prevent spills and leaks. The bottles are fully insulated to retain warm or cold temperatures for up to six hours.

The Pottery Barn Kids collection is available in Qatar at Doha Festival City and Mall of Qatar.

Adding to its robust lineup of free family entertainment, Mall of Qatar is inviting visitors of all ages to be captivated by the astounding acts of The Amazing Acrobat Show. The acro-balance performance started on the 22^nd of July at the mall’s iconic Ooredoo Stage offering daily performances at 12:30pm, 4:30pm, and 7:30pm until the 4^th of August.

The Amazing Acrobat Show, exclusively produced for Mall of Qatar, delivers an extraordinary talented act. With fascinating choreographed routines and incredible acro-balance skills,  the whole show is backed by an engaging soundtrack that mixes authentic circus and traditional Russian music all with a modern twist. “At Mall of Qatar, we strive to provide free unparalleled entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. The Acrobat show is a truly spectacular performance which is sure to delight all of our visitors. ” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

The acro-balance performance originates from a traditional circus entertainment act called Banquine. The routine involves two or more bases and at least one flyer. In the case of this acrobatic troupe, four male bases form a platform with their arms and hands interlocked which two flyers use as a take-off position for somersaults and other aerial tricks.

The second of the Qatar Summer Festival’s (QSF) three raffle draws was held last Thursday at Mall of Qatar and nine winners walked away with QAR 400,000 in cash prizes.

QSF first kicked off on 15 June and visitors and residents still have a chance to win by shopping or dining at any of the festival’s 12 mall partners. For every QAR 200 spent at any of the participating retailers or restaurants, shoppers can enter one of the festival’s one remaining raffle draw for a chance to win a Lamborghini Huracan super car and 16 cash prizes ranging from QAR 20,000 to QAR 100,000. QSF’s participating malls include AlKhor Mall, AlMirqab Mall, B Square Mall, Dar AlSalam Mall, Doha Festival City, Gulf Mall, Hyatt Plaza, Landmark Mall, Lagoona Mall, Mall of Qatar and Edan Malls (Al-Gharafa & Al-Wakrah).

In addition to the in-mall shopping offers and discounts, QSF is once again partnering with The Social Studio to bring Doha Comedy Festival (DCF) to bring roars of laughter to audiences in Qatar. The show headlined by American superstar comedian Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias and featuring Alfred Robles will be hosted by Qatar’s very own comedian Hamad AlAmmari. It is set to take place at Qatar National Convention Centre, on Friday, 17 August. Tickets are still available in the  Silver, Gold and Platinum categories for 95 QAR, 145 QAR and 245 QAR respectively; tickets in the Royal and VIP categories have sold out.

Please find the winner coupons of the second raffle draw below:

QSF 2018’s third and final draw will be held in Doha Festival City on the last day of the 11-week festival, Friday, 31 August. On that day, eight winners will walk away with a total of QAR350,000 and a Lamborghini Huracan (2018 model) luxury super car

Visitors and residents wishing to stay up to date with key events being held in Qatar, can also follow the Qatar Events Calendar’s dedicated social media accounts on Twitter and Instagram (@QatarCalendar), Facebook (Facebook.com/QatarCalendar) and Snapchat (QatarCalendar). 

The U.S. Air Force Central Command Band, also known as the AFCENT Band or Top Flight, performed a spectacular set of American rock and pop music favorites on the Ooredoo Stage at Mall of Qatar on Friday, August 3, 2018.  The U.S. Embassy is proud to partner with the AFCENT Band to make this performance possible. The AFCENT Band first performed at Mall of Qatar in celebration of the “Discover America Festival” in fall of 2017.

The AFCENT Band performs concerts to show gratitude to Qatar for their continued hospitality to American forces and to foster strong partnerships with the Qatari community. The AFCENT Band also travels around the region to promote troop morale. The AFCENT Band is the first permanently assigned Air Force Band to the Central Command Area of Responsibility. Based in Al Udeid Air Base, the band is comprised of deployed Airmen from active duty, reserve, and Air National Guard bands.  The Band performs a wide variety of musical styles to appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

For more information about the event, please contact the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy Doha, Qatar at pasdoha@state.gov or Mall of Qatar at j.deeb@mallofqatar.com.qa.

To stay informed about future events, follow the U.S. Embassy Doha on Twitter: @USEmbassyQatar and Instagram: @usainqatar and on Facebook.

Following the huge success and enthusiasm witnessed over Mall of Qatar’s Bollywood Show back in April, Mall of Qatar brings the rich, colorful, and vibrant culture of India to its Ooredoo stage with the Indian Beats Show.

This exclusive production, combining music, dance, costumes and props, showcases the authentic Punjabi and Lezim Folk Dance with 20 professional artists from the 6th of August until the 18th with daily shows at 12:30pm, 5:30pm, and 8:00pm. “At Mall of Qatar we consistently strive to deliver amazing, extraordinary and free entertainment to excite and thrill our customers. We love being able to bring international acts to Qatar, and we know that our customers will enjoy the color and vibrancy of the Indian Beats Show” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO.

The Authentic Punjabi Performance with Dhol Artists Punjab is known to have one of the most diverse and expressive culture in India, with music and dance as an important component for showcasing it. The dances of Punjab are the most energetic forms of performing arts that you will ever witness. The synchronization found in the dances is simply outstanding. Almost all dances of the state are accompanied with a dhol. As for the Lezim Folk Dance (Maharashtra) is well known for its varied cultures and traditions. Lezim is a folkdance form and is widely enjoyed by the people of Maharashtra. In this dance art, performers carry a small instrument which are jingling cymbals.

This Eid Al Adha, Nickelodeon favourite SpongeBob SquarePants and friends will swap their pineapple under the sea for Mall of Qatar’s Ooredoo Stage!

From the 20^th until the 25^th of August, SpongeBob SquarePants and friends will take Mall of Qatar guests on a delightful adventure with the world class ‘I Heart Dancing’ show. This interactive show takes the audience through SpongeBob SquarePants’ story as he tirelessly trains for his big dance audition. In addition to the fantastic live stage performance, kids and families will have the chance to join in an enchanting, captivating and dynamic adventure at the exclusive activity area. Everyone that steps into this bubbly zone will get the chance to meet SpongeBob SquarePants himself!

“We are very excited to announce our wonderful Eid Al-Adha celebrations and look forward to welcoming families to Mall of Qatar to see SpongeBob SquarePant’s exclusive ‘I heart dancing’ show for the first time in Qatar. This, along with all our other Eid-Al Adha activities continue Mall of Qatar’s commitment to providing the best entertainment in Qatar.” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO. The celebrations don’t stop there as more fun mall-wide activities for all the family will be part of Mall of Qatar’s Eid Al-Adha events; DreamWorks and beIN are launching a new Netflix series called ‘Spirit-Riding Free’ with fun activities including a barn-like fully equipped sound proof studio where kids can record their own version of the Spirit song.

Al Rayyan TV will host a live interactive game show engaging visitors and giving them the chance to win many prizes and the Ministry of Education, as part of their back to school campaign, is running interactive activities for kids including face painting and creative workshops. Finally, as part of the Qatar Summer Festival organized by Qatar Tourism Authority, roaming artists like Peter Pan’s Adventure, Superheroes - Live Avengers Doubles, characters from Frozen and the Qatari Ardha dance will entertain kids throughout the mall and shoppers can enter the raffle draw for a chance to win a Lamborghini Hurricane (2018 model) super car for every QR200 spent at any of the retailers.

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has launched a back-to-school campaign for the 2018-2019 academic year in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar (WCM-Q), Mall of Qatar and the Qatar Unified Awareness Group.

The campaign, which will run until August 31, aims to enhance communication with all parties in the educational process, to prepare students for the new academic year, to involve their parents and all partners in the educational process and to benefit from the support services provided to students and schools to receive the new academic year more effectively. It also aims to remind and emphasise the importance of moral and psychological readiness to study, and focus on the importance of regular attendance from the first day with all seriousness.

Speaking at a press conference, director of Public Relations and Communication at the ministry Hassan al- Mohammadi spoke about the importance of the campaign in terms of preparing students with the participation of parents, and educators, and the need for interaction of all, including visitors with this event through a variety of activities and events and various competitions. He stressed the ministry’s keenness to activate and apply the culture of desire to learn, considering the campaign of successful initiatives of the ministry in order to enhance the capabilities and potential of students and develop and fuel their spirit of competition and creativity through a set of guidance and useful educational advice, to serve the educational system in Qatar at the beginning of a new academic year.

He pointed out that the ministry was committed to its duties and work to achieve its goals. He said that the campaign was not only promotional for the academic year, but is linked psychologically and mentally to every family in Qatar that has children studying in public schools. He called on all segments of Qatar’s society - students, schools, parents, the media, and all partners in the educational process - to participate in the campaign’s activities offered by the students themselves. For her part, chief communications officer at WCM-Q, Nesreen al-Rifai, emphasised the importance of the campaign and the effectiveness of “your health first” to educate children at a young age about the need to adopt a healthy lifestyle which will be reflected in their future health.

Director of marketing at Mall of Qatar Janine Spencer and director of the Qatar Unified Awareness Group Nasser al-Shammari spoke about the educational, cultural, entertainment activities that these two organisations contribute to the success of the campaign and to achieve the desired benefit for each student, teacher, and the guardians. The campaign will be held daily from Sunday to Thursday at 4pm and will continue until 10pm at Mall of Qatar, except on Friday and Saturday, starting at 3pm until 10pm.

Wholesome entertainment shows and activities at various malls in Qatar will take centre stage from Tuesday to mark the start of Eid al-Adha in the country. First on the list on Day 1 is the SpongeBob SquarePants Live Show at Mall of Qatar (MoQ) at 11am, which will also feature a unique SpongeBob activation to welcome mall-goers from 11am to 9pm.

“MoQ is all set to celebrate Eid al-Adha with a large number of residents and visitors in the country who will be spending the holidays here in Doha,” MoQ CEO Stuart Elder told Gulf Times. “Families and children will enjoy our entertainment offerings, especially the SpongeBob SquarePant’s exclusive ‘I heart dancing’ show’ taking place in the country for the first time,” he stressed, adding that providing the people of Qatar with the best and one-of-its-kind entertainment has always been MoQ’s aim.

The mall’s CEO added that a series of rotating shows at MoQ, organised by Qatar Tourism Authority, will also enthral mall-goers with unique performances for five days. According to Elder, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, as part of its back-to-school campaign, will run interactive activities for children, including face painting and creative workshops. MoQ will also host a number of shows on Day 1, including the Spirit Kids Choir, Peter Pan’s Adventure, Spirit Activation – Back to School, and the Al Rayyan TV Live Show.

Other malls participating in Qatar Summer Festival 2018 such as Doha Festival City (DHFC) also have exclusive shows to present from Tuesday. “We strive to bring the best family entertainment to Qatar. We have many entertainment options for Eid al-Adha at DHFC, starting with the popular YalAydoo programme by AlRayyan TV, which will be broadcast live from the mall for five days,” DHFC senior marketing manager May Marzooq told Gulf Times.

She said they are also launching three major Ben 10 activities with live stage shows three times daily, an ongoing activity zone and ArPod for children to enjoy. Doha Festival City recently entered into an entertainment partnership with Cartoon Network, the leading global entertainment brand and one of the most popular animation networks in region, and Invent, the in-mall entertainment experts. The partnership with Cartoon Network kicks off with the much-adored character, Ben 10. “That, along with having VOX Cinemas with its unique experience with over 18 screens, and the recently opened Angry Birds World, as a one-of-its-kind in Qatar kids' entertainment,” Marzooq noted. “It is our strategy to keep the celebration ongoing and for people to always find something new at DHFC.”

The Levitation Man (rotating mall) show will also make its debut at DHFC from 2.30pm to 3pm and another from 5pm to 5.30pm. Meanwhile, Dar Al Salam Mall’s operations manager Zahid Iqbal told 'Gulf Times' that they prepared a diverse and impressive line up of shows this Eid holidays for people to enjoy. Besides family-friendly shows such as the Princess and the Beast and The Frozen Land, the mall is also presenting a cultural programme dubbed as the Qatar Traditional Dance. 

Dar Al Salam Mall also scheduled a 'meet and greet' session with Avengers superheroes on August 25 from 4.30pm to 5pm and from 6.30pm to 7pm. Other Eid shows and activities will be taking place at Lagoona Mall, Al Mirqab Mall, Hyatt Plaza, B Square Mall, Gulf Mall, Landmark Mall, and Al Khor Mall.

source: Gulf Times

The back-to-school campaign 2018-19, underway at the Mall of Qatar until August 31, is attracting good crowds, local Arabic daily Arrayah reported on Friday.

The campaign, launched on Thursday afternoon, is organised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in co-operation with Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar's Sahtak Awalan – Your Health First Programme, and Qatar Unified Awareness Team, sponsored by QNB. The event receives visitors from 4pm to 10pm from Sunday to Thursday and from 3pm to 10pm on Friday and Saturday at the eastern gate of the Mall of Qatar, opposite Carrefour.

Belqass al-Yazidi, head of the community communication section at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, pointed out that 6,000 gifts from the ministry would be distributed to the visitors during the campaign. "The annual campaign organised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education ahead of the new school year aims to introduce students and their parents to the curricula and prepare them by imparting awareness on matters such as proper contents of a school bag, and healthy nutrition," she explained.

The campaign features a number of interactive activities such as drawing, colouring, and various educational activities. Five different sections of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education are taking part in the event. In the meantime, Hassan al-Mohammadi, director of Public Relations and Communication at the ministry, described the campaign as one of the most important initiatives for the service of the society. "It engages both parents and students in related activities to better prepare them for the upcoming school year and the various services offered to the public by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. "The campaign is very important for every household in the country with schoolgoing children due to its various interesting activities that prepare them for the new year. It is informative and enjoyable," he said.

Hundreds of children and their parents have taken part since the launch of the campaign, Arrayah added.

source: Gulf Times

Qatar’s favorite shopping destination, Mall of Qatar, continues with its exceptional free family entertainment offering and invites you to witness the most innovative and spectacular performance of the ‘Acrobat Tech Show’; a mesmerizing, top-class show that features state of the art laser technology.

The show is held on the Ooredoo Stage, every day at 6:30pm and 8:30pm until the 16^th of September. “Eid is over and school has started but the entertainment doesn’t stop at Mall of Qatar! We continue to provide shoppers with memorable shows and delightful experiences and we are excited to welcome them here to enjoy this unique performance” said Stuart Elder, Mall of Qatar CEO. Join Mall of Qatar for a supreme aerial acrobatics skill show with anexceptional laser act and a haunting atmospheric music soundtrack that promises to entertain the whole family.

Qatar Airways’ friendly Oryx Kids Club mascots will be inspiring young travellers to get creative in planning their next journey, with a visit to an exciting digital drawing booth at the Mall of Qatar from 26-29 September 2018.

Orry and Orah the oryx and their three furry friends – Kamil the camel, Faaiz the falcon and Farah the desert fox –  will be on hand from 4pm - 9pm on 26 and 27 September, and from 2pm - 9pm on 28 and 29 September to help children demonstrate their creativity towards travelling by participating in a digital drawing competition. The fun-filled event aims to encourage youngsters aged 7-12 years to develop a sense of familiarity when they travel to their favourite destination with Qatar Airways. The winners of the drawing competition will be awarded with a minimum of two Economy Class return tickets to any Qatar Airways destination on its global route network of more than 150 destinations.

The airline’s booth at the Mall of Qatar will provide children with the opportunity to explore their creative side and discover the excitement of travel with Qatar Airways. Children can also take home a souvenir photo of themselves with their favourite Oryx Kids Club mascot, as well as with a certificate of participation. Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Ehab Amin, said: “Qatar Airways is thrilled to engage with young travellers in Qatar and offer them a taste of excitement when travelling with our family-friendly airline. We continually strive to engage with young children, who are the leaders of the future, and encourage them to follow their dreams and travel the world, exploring all the exciting destinations and locations the world has to offer.

“This event is also a wonderful opportunity for children to interact with our exciting new mascots, and highlight our interest in ensuring that travel is a fun and educational experience for young passengers. Orry, Orah and their three furry friends will help make every flight even more enjoyable for families.” Launched in March 2018 at KidzMondo, the Oryx Kids Club characters are designed to inspire and excite children when they fly. Children travelling on the award-winning airline’s short, medium, long and ultra long-haul routes are now able to enjoy specially designed plush toys, activity packs, and special meal boxes featuring their favourite super heroes from the Oryx Kids Club during their flight.

Qatar Airways also recently announced the Oryx Kids Loyalty Programme, a unique Frequent Flyer Programme aimed at the airline’s youngest passengers. The Oryx Kids Loyalty Programme will be offering children between the ages of two and 17 years the opportunity to enjoy value-added benefits when travelling with Qatar Airways, as well as the ability to earn Qmiles, which can be redeemed for attractive awards. In addition, young travellers will also be eligible to earn Qpoints across two different tiers; Explorer (entry tier) and Jetsetter (higher tier). The Oryx Kids Loyalty Programme will be launching in the coming months. For more information please visit: https://www.qatarairways.com/en/Privilege-Club/kids-programme.html.

With more than 4,000 entertainment options to choose from, Qatar Airways’ award-winning in-flight entertainment service, Oryx One, also features dedicated children’s channels such as Disney, Nickelodeon, the Cartoon Network, Baraem and Jeem, to keep youngsters happy throughout the flight. Family-friendly films currently being shown on board include Alvin and the Chipmunks; Kung Fu Panda; Winnie the Pooh; Flushed Away; Bambi; Robin Hood; Dolphin Tale, as well as many others.

Qatar Airways currently operates a modern fleet of more than 200 aircraft via its home and hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), to more than 150 destinations worldwide. The award-winning airline recently revealed a host of upcoming new global destinations planned for 2018, including Gothenburg, Sweden; Da Nang, Vietnam and Mombasa, Kenya.