fact Qatar July 2026

Art For All School’s Out For Summer

Memory Revisited: Inside Mathaf’s 15th Anniversary Exhibitions

Fact Dining Awards Qatar 2026 Winners From Qatar To The West End In Conversation With Sophia Al-Maria

Art Is Life

“Home is not where you are born, but where you create.” M.F. Hussain “

Summer in Qatar has a way about it that makes us slow down, ponder and reflect – much like art, in my opinion. So, this month we’re making it all about art! Small as we may be, Qatar has plenty of art and artists to discover, as you’ll see in our cover story, which takes you on a journey exploring the city’s must-visit art galleries and some classes for those who want to get in on the act.

Sticking with the art theme, we also caught up with Arthur Debsi, who’s curating two exhibitions at Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. And we chatted with Qatar’s own Yara Fabricante, who recently made her stage debut in London’s West End, and filmmaker and artist Sophia Al-Maria, whose work was shown at the National Pavilion of Qatar at the 61st Venice Biennale.

There’s no shortage of things to look forward to this month and we’re particularly excited about Qatar Toy Festival, which runs all month long and will be perfect with the kids off school for the big break. And with youngsters in mind, we’ve rounded up lots of Summer Camps in our second feature to keep them all occupied and out of mischief. June saw the much anticipated Fact Dining Awards – a bit later than usual, thanks to the regional tensions but a great success nonetheless for that. We’ve got news of all the winners and plenty of pics from the night in our special feature.

And we’ve been out and about making the most of the city’s dining scene with visits to Jamavar, IKA South American, Bentley’s Grill and Taj Rasoi. We also put the Audi Q5 40 TFSI S line through its paces – it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it.

As always, we keep you in the know with the latest in fashion, beauty, tech and entertainment and I must admit, I really love this month’s travel feature – it’s giving me very itchy feet.

Enjoy the read and hope this summer inspires your creativity!

Bye for now...

Sirine Boudjadi Editor fact Qatar editorial@fact-magazine.com

FACT Magazine

Qatar Edition

• JULY 2026

VOLUME 13, ISSUE 01

PUBLISHER

RAMI KHALIL

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

CHIRINE HALABI

GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

LIZ O’REILLY

EDITOR

SIRINE BOUDJADI

DIGITAL TEAM

FAREEDA ABDULLA

ROHITH TR SALES TEAM

ANUSH MKRTUMIAN

GENE SOLANZO

ART DIRECTOR

SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT

HADY SAMAHA

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION

AJIT KUMAR

NEIL MAHMOOD

EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES

chirine@fact-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

APPLE SHARMA

GARETH WOODS SD

PRINTED BY QATAR NATIONAL PRINTING PRESS

DISTRIBUTION

DAR AL SHARQ

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions.

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Pablo Picasso

MORE TOYS, MORE FUN, MORE MAGIC

Qatar Toy Festival is back for 2026 promising to be bigger, bolder and better than ever before.

Now in its fourth edition, the festival takes place at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center and runs throughout July bringing imagination to life with toy zones, interactive games, live shows and workshops.

New for this year, you can look forward to even more stage shows, from dancing and music concerts to science demonstrations, along with celebrity appearances, mascot meet-and-greets, five islands, 10 retail stores and almost 30 entertainment corners!

Organised as part of Visit Qatar’s Hala Summer campaign, the event spans more than 22,000sq/m of exhibition space across four halls running under the theme ‘More to Imagine, A Whole World of Fun’.

Themed zones have been expanded to cater to all ages, from pre-schoolers to teens and a newly introduced immersive stage setting will be the venue for concerts, live performances and competitions, to keep everyone entertained.

Partnered with Spacetoon, the family broadcaster, visitors can expect presence from global brands, retail experiences, great collectibles and interactive activities.

There’ll also be a dedicated Influencers Zone where content creators will be recording their experiences, showcasing what’s in store.

Aiming to expand on the success of the previous edition, which attracted more than 130,000 visitors from across the GCC and beyond, new attractions this year include the Studio Zone which features experiences from the likes of Toy Story, Winnie the Pooh and SpongeBob SquarePants. There’s also a new Inflatables Zone where kids big and small can bounce, slide and make some memories.

The Young Adult Zone is the space for teens with a football section and the Teen Titans Obstacle Course; the Girls’ Zone welcomes Mickey Mouse and Friends and Lilo and Stitch; and the Boys’ Zone features Hot Wheels, Pac-Man, Tetris and much more.

For the little ones, the Preschool Zone is aimed at early learners with an interactive Paw Patrol mission.

And the Qatar Toy Festival Summer Camp returns with a special programme for kids aged four to 12 running throughout July.

The festival runs until July 31 from 2pm to 10pm on weekdays and 2pm to 11pm from Thursday to Saturday. Entry starts at QR50 with special needs kids getting in free with valid ID.

Tickets are available via doha.platinumlist. net ✤

WHERE GREAT BURGERS MEET GREAT MOMENTS

For nearly a decade, Burger Boutique has been serving Qatar's burger enthusiasts with a simple philosophy: quality ingredients, bold flavors, and an experience worth coming back for. Since 2016, the brand has become a favorite destination for those seeking more than just a meal, offering burgers crafted with care and packed with personality.

A true reflection of this commitment is the Bacon Swiss Burger, one of Burger Boutique's standout creations. Featuring Swiss cheese, beef bacon, crisp lettuce, onions, mushrooms, pickles, and the restaurant's signature special sauce, every ingredient plays its part in creating a burger that's rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. It's a combination that delivers the perfect balance of freshness, texture, and indulgence in every bite.

From the first bite to the last, Burger Boutique invites guests to enjoy a burger experience unlike any other. Whether you're a longtime fan or visiting for the first time, every meal is an opportunity to discover what makes Burger Boutique a favorite among burger lovers across Qatar.

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Do you have a budding MasterChef at home? Little Chefs of Jiwan offers the chance for youngsters to develop their cooking skills in a culinary workshop overseen by kitchen professionals. Taking place at Jiwan restaurant at the National Museum of Qatar, the classes run from 10am to 12pm on Saturdays and are priced at QR250, including morning tea and bites for the accompanying adult. Advance booking required. ✤

GO: CALL 7102 7750 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO MAKE A BOOKING.

IN THE SWIM

Dusit Doha Hotel currently has a great summer offer of a pool day pass at QR100 (50% off with Urban Point and My Book). For that you get full access to the rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, indoor hot tub, sauna and steam room, heat seat, ice fountain, four-seasons shower and bi-thermal shower. There’s also one house beverage for adults and a soft drink for kids, who pay QR50, plus 50% discount at any restaurant, including brunch! ✤

GO: CALL 4004 4444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

ALL ABOUT THE BREAD

The baguette is that quintessentially French symbol that immediately conjures Parisian street corner bakeries – with half the bread eaten before you reach home. But you’d be hard put to polish off the mammoth loaf that’s on offer at La Maison De L'Entrecôte, Le Méridien City Center, Doha. The onemetre signature baguette comes in three varieties: classic steak, tender chicken or delicate seabass, served in the crunchy loaf and accompanied by golden fries. It should feed up to four people and is served Monday to Saturday from 12pm to 12am, priced QR160. ✤

GO: CALL 4041 3333 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

GAMING IMAGINATION BECOMES REALITY

This month brings the chance to step into a living Minecraft world in the heart of Doha, where every corner calls for exploration, adventure and survival.

Fans of the sandbox video game can experience Minecraft as never before as the universe comes to Doha Exhibition & Convention Center from July 28 to August 27, bringing an immersive, adventure-filled experience.

Families, gamers and creators will come together for interactive challenges, creative builds and real-world exploration, building and discovering moments of excitement that go far beyond the screen, creating memories that last.

The Minecraft Experience is an immersive, interactive family attraction where the Minecraft universe comes to life through hands-on, gameplay-inspired zones and real-world creative challenges. Discover themed adventure areas, building and exploration activities and collaborative missions designed to spark creativity, teamwork and problem-solving.

It’s set across several curated areas - Adventure Zones, creative build areas, survival challenge missions, interactive gameplay rooms and family and kids’ discovery spaces where players can complete missions, uncover secrets and experience the game brought to life.

Timings and ticketing details are still to be announced. ✤

IRONMAN COMING TO QATAR

There’s huge excitement among the country’s athletic community with the news that IRONMAN 70.3 is to make its Doha debut in March next year.

Taking place at Old Doha Port from March 18 to 20, 2027, the event, announced by Visit Qatar, is another milestone in the country’s growing international sporting calendar.

Staged in collaboration with The IRONMAN Group, the world’s leading organiser of endurance events, it will bring together athletes and regional sporting communities for a world-class racing experience set against the backdrop of Doha’s waterfront. The main race, scheduled for March 20, will feature the globally recognised IRONMAN 70.3 format, comprising a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycling course and a 21.1km run. The event programme will also include the IRONKIDS race on March 19, offering younger participants the opportunity to take part in the excitement of race weekend.

The event is expected to attract thousands of athletes and visitors and alongside the races, visitors will be able to enjoy a lively event atmosphere featuring dedicated fan zones, the interactive IRONMAN Village and a range of community and entertainment experiences throughout the weekend.

Further details regarding registration, spectator experiences and dedicated travel packages for athletes and their families will be announced in the coming weeks through Visit Qatar’s official channels. ✤

GO: VISIT IRONMAN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

AN EXCLUSIVE LUXURY FIRST FOR QATAR

Exceptional Greek artisanal heritage arrived in Qatar with the launch of the first carpo store as part of Americana Restaurants International PLC’s Gulf expansion.

The new store, located at Via Domo, the luxury area near Gate 6 of Villaggio Mall, offers guests the full carpo experience, from its celebrated range of nuts, coffee and chocolates to curated gifting options, delivered through the brand's distinctive hospitality experience.

The opening marks Americana Restaurants' entry into the premium food retail segment under its exclusive partnership with carpo. Americana Restaurants, the largest out-of-home dining and quick service restaurant operator in the Middle East & North Africa and Kazakhstan, holds the exclusive rights to develop and operate carpo stores in Qatar and Kuwait, with further expansion planned across Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Americana Restaurants Chairman Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, said: "Following its success in the UAE, carpo's launch in Qatar marks an exciting step in its regional growth journey. Renowned for its freshly roasted nuts, handcrafted chocolates and premium coffees, carpo brings a distinctive blend of quality and craftsmanship that aligns perfectly with Qatar's discerning consumers. Supported by Americana's scale and deep regional expertise, we are confident carpo

will become a destination brand in the market."

Kostas Kontopoulos, carpo Founder and CEO, added: "Every new carpo destination represents far more than a new location. It is an opportunity to share the values that have guided us since day one: genuine hospitality, uncompromising quality and meaningful human connection. We are particularly excited about Doha, a city that embraces excellence and appreciates authentic experiences. Through our partnership with Americana Restaurants, we are proud to introduce the carpo experience to Qatar and look forward to becoming part of our guests' everyday rituals and special moments."

The opening in Doha strengthens the brand's presence in the Middle East and underscores Americana Restaurants' commitment to introducing world-class concepts across the region.

NEW DINING EXPERIENCES IN WEST BAY

Shanghai Me Doha has introduced Hanami Nights, an evening dining experience inspired by the Japanese tradition of Hanami.

Hanami equates to the celebration of beauty, blossoms and shared moments around the table and, at Shanghai Me Doha, it comes with a carefully curated menu of the restaurant’s signature dishes, bringing together the refinement of Chinese and Japanese cuisine in an elegant setting.

Served in the restaurant’s sophisticated surrounds and available from 6pm onwards, the experience includes three courses and one drink for QR265 per person. Designed to flow naturally from dinner into the rhythm of the evening, it offers a polished yet accessible way to gather, unwind and enjoy exceptional food and drinks in the heart of West Bay. The restaurant has also launched the Maneki Brunch in collaboration with Rituals. Inspired by the spirit of the Maneki-neko, Japan’s iconic symbol of luck and prosperity, the brunch is created as a new ritual for guests looking to celebrate the weekend in style.

Guests can expect a sharing-style menu featuring some of Shanghai Me Doha’s most-loved dishes, complemented by signature beverages and live jazz performances with popular sing-along favourites that set the tone for an energetic and vibrant Friday afternoon.

Building on the success of its graduation season collaboration with Rituals, Shanghai Me continues the partnership at Maneki Brunch, starting with The Ritual of Sakura collection to celebrate the Japanese side of

the brand and align beautifully with the spirit of Maneki. Guests can expect curated surprises, thoughtful gifts and signature Rituals moments throughout the brunch, adding an extra touch of indulgence to the afternoon.

The brunch runs on Fridays from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced QR350 with soft drinks, QR450 for the House Beverage Package and QR500 for the Premium Beverage Package. Located in the heart of West Bay, Shanghai Me Doha is a modern Pan-Asian dining destination inspired by the glamour and spirit of 1930s Shanghai. Blending bold Chinese flavours with refined Japanese techniques, the menu offers a contemporary interpretation of Asian cuisine, defined by depth, balance and premium ingredients sourced across Asia. Created by acclaimed chef-preneur Izu Ani and restaurateur Evgeny Kuzin under Fundamental Hospitality, Shanghai Me forms part of an internationally recognised hospitality group known for its distinctive lifestyle concepts and elevated dining experiences. Following the success of its first location in Dubai, Shanghai Me has expanded to Doha and London’s Mayfair, establishing its presence in some of the world’s most dynamic culinary destinations. ✤

ART FOR ALL

From artist-run studios and independent art spaces to world-class collections and established institutions, Qatar's galleries are far more than places to admire paintings. They preserve history, support emerging talent and introduce visitors to new ideas. Whether you're an avid collector, an art lover or simply want to get acquainted with the art world, here's our guide to some of the most inspiring spaces to visit across the city.

ALHOSH GALLERY

A contemporary art space at The Pearl dedicated to presenting exhibitions, cultural programmes and artistic initiatives since 2008.

Alhosh Gallery brings together local, regional and international artists through exhibitions that explore contemporary visual culture, identity, memory and social dialogue.

Serving as a platform for artistic exchange and supporting both emerging and established artists, here you’ll find various disciplines from painting, photography and installation to mixed media and conceptual art.

The gallery stages exhibitions, talks, workshops and collaborative cultural projects aimed at creating meaningful connections between artists, audiences and ideas.

Alhosh is currently staging its summer show Returning To Nature. It features works from 57 local and international artists and is curated by Munira Mohammed in collaboration with Kaynuna. There are also supplementary workshops and activations such as mat Pilates running alongside.

At its core, Returning to Nature responded to growing concerns surrounding the increasing reliance on technological systems and modern infrastructures that, despite their convenience, may gradually diminish essential human capacities such as contemplation, critical thinking, manual craftsmanship and direct engagement with the surrounding environment. In this context, the exhibition proposed a reconsideration of the relationship between humanity and nature, not as a nostalgic return to the past, but as a search for more conscious, sustainable, and meaningful ways of moving forward. It was put together through an open call and features various media.

The next workshop – Contemporary Arabic Calligraffiti with Abdul Kareem (Kareemgraphy) – runs on July 4.

Opening hours 10am to 10pm. Entry is usually free but some exhibitions may have an admission charge.

GO: Visit alhosh.qa for more information.

Located at Katara Cultural Village, Qatar's oldest privately owned gallery presents emerging and established artists from the Arab world. Founded in 2008 in Souk Waqif by a group of young Qatari artists dedicated to exhibiting and promoting Arabic artwork, the permanent exhibition space was established at Katara 2014. In 2017 a second location opened at the Fire Station Studios.

Al Markhiya curates a dynamic programme of contemporary exhibitions and other events throughout the year, offering established and emerging creatives important opportunities to showcase their work. It also seeks out partnerships and collaborative ventures with major galleries and institutions globally, helping elevate the visibility of work by Arab artists.

The current exhibition in collaboration with the Dalloul Artist Collective, Lines of Belonging, features the works of Qatari artist Salman Al Malek and Lebanese painter Fawzi Baalbaki. It explores memory, identity and lived experiences. Running at the Fire Station until August 16.

Gallery Hours: Katara Saturday to Thursday, 10am to 9pm, closed Fridays. Fire Station Saturday to Thursday 9am to 7pm, Friday closed. GO: Call 7742 3239 or 7032 8880 for more information.

FIRE STATION

Found at Mohammed Bin Thani Street, Doha, Fire Station is a contemporary art space committed to supporting artists and curators through its residency programmes and engaging the local communities in Qatar through events and opportunities, including exhibitions and public programmes.

Originally built in 1982, it was home to Qatar's first Civil Defence Authority until late 2012, operating as a working fire station. It was repurposed and renovated in 2014 as an 'adaptive reuse project' to host Fire Station: Artist in Residence initiative.

Lead architect, Ibrahim Al-Jaida, actively preserved the original details of the building, such as its distinctive honeycomb façade and the tower and, in doing so, helped preserve a piece of Doha's early-modern architecture. The annexe and extended building were later additions to the original structure and together with the plaza, they form the Fire Station complex.

The building includes extensive studios and workspaces, a woodshop and a fabrication lab, alongside the Fire Station Cinema, Café 999, Cass Art (art supply shop) and gallery spaces housing local and international art exhibitions. Even on the rare occasions when there’s nothing specific happening, this is one of those spaces where there’s always something to see.

Gallery Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 9am to 7pm, Friday 2pm to 7pm. Entry is free for Qatar residents with ID.

GO: Visit firestation.org.qa for more information.

A M GALLERY

A M Gallery Place Vendôme Mall was established to offer a diverse collection of unique artistic creations presented by a select group of Qatari and international artists.

A M Gallery aims to create an inspiring artistic environment that brings together artists and art collectors, enhancing creative culture and community interaction.

Exhibitions feature distinguished Qatari and international artists and there’re chances to develop your own artistic skills and discover your talents through diverse educational programmes, supervised by certified trainers and creative artists.

Visitors can join inspiring seminars and cultural lectures that enrich knowledge and stimulate intellectual dialogue about arts and culture. There’s also the opportunity to unleash your creativity in the dedicated free drawing space, where all the necessary art tools are available to bring your creation to life.

The gallery offers custom design and execution of artistic sculptures and models that blend creativity and high craftsmanship as well as a store featuring prints and a curated selection of products, limited editions and unique handmade items that cannot be found anywhere else.

Opening hours Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 11pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am to 12am.

GO: Visit amgallery.qa for more information.

LAWH WA QALAM M.F. HUSAIN MUSEUM

Recently announced on Time magazine’s World’s Greatest Places list for 2026, La Wa Qalam, in Education City, gives visitors the chance to step into Maqbool Bida Husain’s creative universe and vision, uniting art, culture and learning.

Maqbool Fida Husain (1913–2011), fondly known as M. F. Husain, was a visionary artist whose creativity reshaped modern art. He began painting cinema billboards in India and became one of the world’s most influential contemporary artists.

His unconventional and prolific journey included painting, sculpture, film, poetry and design. His unconfined style and visual language drew from history, culture and everyday life, speaking to audiences across generations.

Established by Qatar Foundation, Lawh Wa Qalam celebrates Husain’s life and work across a space spanning 3,000sq/m in a building born from a sketch by the artist himself and realised by architect Martand Khosla.

Its galleries feature the artist’s final works created in Qatar, his adopted home, including the Arab Civilization series, and culminate with his last and most ambitious masterpiece, Seeroo fi al ardh. Personal objects and diverse works across genres and media offer deeper insights into his creative journey.

Opening hours: Saturday to Sunday and Tuesday to Thursday 10am to 5pm, Fridays 1.30pm to 7.30pm. Closed Mondays and public holidays. Entry is free for Qatar residents. Non-residents pay a small fee.

GO: Visit lawhaqalam.org.qa for more information.

MATHAF: ARAB MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

Founded in 2010, Mathaf is situated in a renovated former school building in Education City, established by Qatar Foundation (QF), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser.

The collection, which is co-owned by Qatar Museums and Qatar Foundation, comprises more than 9,000 artworks, making it the world’s largest specialised collection of its kind.

In the early 1990s, HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohamed bin Ali Al Thani started building a collection of modern and contemporary art, mainly focussing on the region and its historical and cultural connections from North Africa to Asia and from Turkey and Iran.

The first space of Mathaf, situated in two private villas in Madinat Khalifa in Doha, was conceived from the idea of what an Arab Museum of Modern Art might look like, a place for sharing the massive production of art in the region.

The development of the museum has continued as an inspiring space for dialogue and scholarship about modern and contemporary art with artists in residency in Doha, and also as a place for art production and display. Today Mathaf focuses on showing the permanent collection and producing major shows based on new commissions.

The collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is a unique survey of 20th- and 21st-century modern and contemporary art from the Arab World, the Middle East and wider geographies of Africa, Asia and Europe that are historically connected to Qatar and the Arab Peninsula.

Many of these items are now accessible through Qatar Museums’ new Online Collection platform.

For information on current exhibitions, check out our In Focus interview with curator Arthur Debsi.

Opening hours: Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am to 7pm, closed Monday, Thursday 9am to 9pm, Friday 1.30pm to 7pm. Entry is free but you need to book a ticket. GO: Visit mathaf.org.qa for more information.

SOUQ WAQIF ART CENTER

One of Qatar’s most popular arts spaces, Souq Waqif Arts Centre (SWAC) takes inspiration from traditional Islamic and Middle Eastern art, providing a resource for aspiring artists to learn the fundamentals and techniques. A definite favourite with the visiting public it hosts various art presentations, exhibitions and courses offered throughout the year.

SWAC’s mission is to present various types of visual arts that reflect the heritage and tradition of the State of Qatar and broaden the artistic and imaginative horizon of its people. It’s also very geared towards the development of young artists, teaching various disciplines though technical courses and workshops as well as intensive summer courses.

Throughout the year the centre offers workshops in sculpture, painting, Arabic calligraphy, handicrafts and pottery as well as live art creation sessions with visitors commenting that watching artists at work brings the whole experience to life.

The results of those workshops are displayed at the centre, encouraging up-and-coming artists to keep creating and introducing visitors to new talents.

The centre stages rotating exhibitions from local and resident artists and the surrounding squares host seasonal events and exhibitions.

Opening hours: Daily 8am to 2pm and 4pm to 10pm – Fridays 4pm to 9pm. Free to enter. Visit in the evening when lantern lights add to the atmosphere.

GO: Call 4417 6204 for more information.

QATAR ART CENTER

The centre, at Al Messila, was established in the early 1990s, at the initiative of HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, as part of a vision that values art and seeks to spread artistic taste in cultural life.

For 25 years, it has been providing an artistic environment that contributes to giving artists-in-residence a common space to create, exchange experiences and ideas, and enrich the creative scene in Qatar and the Arab world.

It invites prominent Arab artist to reside on-site providing a creative space and aims to attract promising young artist to develop their journeys through interaction with their peers.

The centre also offers art and design expertise to community organisations and supports artistic initiatives and associations.

The centre hosted and showcased artists for Art Basel 2026. It also hosted the Palais de Tokyo team and, late last year, even engaged in a collaboration with Snapchat.

Visiting hours are 10.30am to 1.30pm and tours should be booked in advance on the website qatarartcenter.org

GO: Call 4487 7477 for more information.

Open 24/7

Open around the clock, Antoinette’s is ready to welcome you 24/7 with fresh bites, sweet treats, and your favorite beverages.

GET YOUR ART ON

If the previous pages have inspired you to put paint to paper (or canvas) or dabble in some other artistic endeavour, we’ve got you covered. Check out these classes and experiences across Doha for all ages and abilities and prepare to ‘Get your art on’.

ART LOFT

For something a bit different, check out Art Loft’s epoxy resin classes. Held in West Bay, they offer a range of things to make to order, from a serving set to a coffee table, which are produced over several classes to your own design. This one sounds really interesting with a unique art piece to take home at the end. GO: Visit @artloft.qa for more information.

ARTS & CRAFTS DOHA (A&C)

A thriving art centre in the heart of Doha since 2013, A&C aims to be one of the leading art and design facilities in the city, providing a vast array of design workshops, pottery classes and so much more. As well as a summer camp for kids it has a range of classes coming up including a portrait programme with artist Thar AlSayegh taking place on Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays from July 4 to 22. Participants will be able to develop their drawing and painting skills through guided lessons and hands-on practice.

GO: Call 6686 7993 for more information.

CLAY ENCOUNTERS

Found at Qanat Quartier and Old Doha Port, Clay Encounters offers clay modelling classes for all abilities at both locations. The Pearl branch offers a private room suitable for ladies-only and private classes while the Old Doha Port site promises sea views while you work. The classes range from beginners to established potters and you will go home with a personal creation to show for your labours. GO: Visit clayencounters.com for more information.

CREATE ART STUDIO

At Create, the belief is that everyone is an artist, they just need the right space to explore their talent and vision. It’s a space where people of all ages can relax, express themselves and connect with their creativity and community. Through hands-on art experiences, they nurture imagination, self-expression and a sense of belonging. Create Art Studio was founded by two passionate entrepreneurs, with a mission to redefine how people engage with art. The studio is a vibrant and inclusive space that encourages individuals of all ages and backgrounds to explore their creativity in a supportive, immersive environment.

From UV glow walls to collaborative mural painting, they offer a wide range of dynamic experiences that celebrate artistic freedom and community.

GO: Call 7082 8671 or 7761 8587.

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART (MIA)

Join this ladies-only workshop to learn about naskh (Arabic calligraphy), one of the oldest forms of Arabic calligraphy. Naskh script is known for its simplicity and clarity. It takes its name from the word ‘copy’ or ‘naskh’ in Arabic as this script was once used for copying books and manuscripts. Naskh also has great value among Muslims, as all copies of the Qur’an are written using this script.

The workshop, led by Hussein Ammar Ahmed, is most suitable for those who have already done one of the beginner courses. Runs from July 5 to 8 from 4pm to 6pm at the Education Centre in MIA. GO: Visit mia.org.qa for more information.

SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER

Classrooms are shuttered for the long summer break, which means it’s time to seek out all the fun Qatar has to offer if you’re staying with the family. From sports and dance to music, arts and science, summer camps offer plenty of opportunities for children to stay active, try something new and meet like-minded friends. We've rounded up some of the most exciting summer programmes to keep youngsters active, creative and entertained all season long.

BK SPORTS

A Summer Camp designed to give children aged four to 14 years an unforgettable holiday filled with sports, learning, creativity and excitement. Offering a safe, structured and engaging environment for kids to stay active during the break with indoor facilities perfect for all weather conditions. Running at Barwa City and Al Waab, sports training includes swimming, football, basketball, martial arts, gymnastics and kids' fitness and conditioning games. There are also creative and educational activities, such as robotics, science experiments, fun games and team challenges and learning-through-play for toddlers. The camp at Al Waab runs until August 20 and at Barwa City until August 27, from 8am to 1pm Sunday to Thursday. GO: Call 3337 4384, 3133 9903 or 3031 3929 for more information.

BOUNCE Inc

BOUNCE Summer Camp is where kids show up, meet their ‘crew’ and have the kind of summer that lives on in their memories.

BOUNCE is a freestyle playground of wall-to-wall trampolines, airbags and adventure zones where youngsters get to let loose and fly high. With epic coaches, trampolining, team games and high-energy sessions, screens can definitely wait, as every session builds coordination, confidence and freestyle movement.

The camps are available at Bounce Tawar Mall Doha and miniBOUNCE The Pearl Island and run until August 27, Sunday to Thursday. Timings are, half days 8am to 1.30pm or 1.30pm to 5pm, or full days 8am to 5pm. Pricing starts at QR199 for a half day or QR279 for a full day. Weekly rates are available. GO: Visit Bounce.qa/programs-activities/holiday-camp/ for more information.

CREATE ART STUDIO

Encourage your kids to dig into their arty side at a summer camp where creativity meets adventure. Youngsters can look forward to lots of activities from the art lab and glow zone to slime lab, plus games and teamwork. There’s also sensory play, workshops and, thanks to a tie-up with BOUNCE, there are two bounce sessions every day.

The Summer Camp takes place at Tawar Mall and runs until August 31, Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 1pm. Prices are QR200 per day, QR900 for a week or QR3,300 for a whole month.

GO: Call 7082 8671 for more information.

DANA CLUB

Kids aged five to 12 years can look forward to a varied programme of activities, including sports, Little Master Chef, skills development, aqua aerobics, martial arts, educational games and ‘make and create’ at this summer camp held at DANA Club. And, though the club is for private members, the camp is open to all.

Sessions run from 8am to 2.30pm daily, until August 31 with limited slots available. Prices start at QR600 per week for members and QR720 per week for non-members. Monthly and full camp rates are available and lunch is included.

GO: Call 4496 0600 or 6698 7757 for more information or registration.

EVO SPORTS QATAR

Looking for a fun, active and engaging way to keep the kids entertained this summer? Evo Sports Qatar is back with a range of camps designed for youngsters aged four to 11 years offering an action-packed programme of sports, games, challenges, team activities and creative experiences. Whether your child is discovering a new sport, developing existing skills, building confidence or making new friends, every day is packed with opportunities to learn, play and have fun. From exciting competitions and team challenges to swimming and multi-sports activities, no two days are ever the same.

Summer Camps take place at Doha College, Al Wajba and SEK-Qatar, West Bay and for 2026, they’ve introduced Camp Plus+ offering esports, LEGO challenges, arts and crafts, creative workshops, team games and exciting daily activities with early drop-off from 7.30am and late pick-up until 2pm.

Prices from QR750 per week from 8am to 1pm with dates variable depending on venue.

GO: Call 4407 6772 for more information.

thursday evening brunch

A lavish Indian buffet with live cooking stations, traditional beverages signature kebabs, biryani, vibrant curries, and assorted Indian breads.

QAR 199 per person (including soft beverages)

QAR 299 per person (including special beverages)

B1G1 available on the Entertainer, Urban Point and My Book

every thursday 18:30 to 22:30

For reservations

INFLATA PARK AND KIDS CITY DRIVING SCHOOL

Brought to you by E3 Qatar, this one looks like a lot of fun. The Summer Camp at Inflata Park at City Center Mall runs in conjunction with Kids City Driving School. So, youngsters don’t just get to bounce and slide to their heart’s content, they also get to drive two-seater, pint-sized cars on a real driving track with traffic lights and road signs and there’s an awesome soft play area too. Youngsters also get access to mall entertainment and a meal during their session.

The Summer Camp runs until August 13 and the schedule and prices vary by sessions and age groups.

GO: Call 3311 8147 for more information.

INSTITUTO DI MODA BURGO

The Burgo Fashion & Art Summer Camp offers a creative adventure for kids and teens in which they get to explore the world of fashion, sewing, art and creativity in a fun and inspiring environment. Youngsters will learn to sew fashion tote bags, design mood boards, create scrunchies and flowers, drape fashion dresses, paint fabric and explore abstract art and embroidery. Suitable for ages eight to 15 years, camp classes run twice a week for twoand-a-half hours with batches running throughout July and August.

GO: Call or WhatsApp 7798 9831 for more information.

NUTTY SCIENTISTS

If your kid has a scientific bent, then this is the one for them. Nutty Scientists Summer Camp at Alif Stores Dafna is suitable for ages four and up and promises a whole range of interesting activities, including chemistry lab, dinosaur discovery, ocean odyssey and something for future engineers. Sessions run on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm, priced QR150 for a day pass, QR350 for a week or QR999 for a whole month.

GO: Call 6665 7553 for more information.

OLI OLI

Especially curated for youngsters aged four to 10 years, Oli Oli’s Summer Camp promises a new theme each week with hands-on activities and access to the interactive galleries. Depending on the week, kids get the chance to join in jaw-dropping experiments, write with invisible ink, explore the wonders of the universe, get messy and creative and tinker with gadgets to learn new skills. Morning camps run from 9am to 1pm, priced QR1,050 per week, and afternoons are from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, priced QR750 per week. All-day camp is available at QR1,650 per week.

GO: Visit olioli.qa/summer-camps/ for more information.

OMEGA CENTER FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

This camp, for youngsters aged from two-and-a-half upwards is all about learning important life skills while having fun. Running over nine weeks, until August 30, with themes broken down into two-week blocks, it deals with four key themes: school, home, park and supermarket. Young participants take part in activities such as packing a school bag, where children race to select appropriate items; a peer appreciation circle, where each child says something positive about a peer; chore challenge involving folding, sorting and cleaning tasks; and building with nature – using sticks and leaves to create something.

The Summer Camp is open to everyone, including siblings and neurotypical peers, and runs five days per week with fees starting at QR1,500 for three days at four hours per day.

GO: Call 3369 5823 or 5563 9713 for more information.

THE DIPLOMATIC CLUB

Sun N Fun is back at The Diplomatic Club for a summer filled with swimming, tennis, boxing, yoga, arts and crafts, cinema and more with delicious meals included. Aimed at youngsters aged five to 12 years, activities include origami, team building talent show and group storytelling, cookie decoration and boat trips for guaranteed fun all round.

The Summer Camp runs from 8am to 1pm Sunday to Thursday until August 27 and sessions range from QR250 per day to QR2,500 for a full month.

GO: Call 4484 7450 for more information.

In a world where daily life moves between valet stands, school runs and late-evening gatherings, the Audi Q5 has long been a familiar presence. So, when the refreshed Audi

Q5 40 TFSI S line arrived for our inspection and test drive, we were curious to see how this latest evolution balanced elegance, practicality and Audi’s unmistakable precision.

A Distinct Presence

The S line exterior package gave our test car a distinctly athletic presence. Sculpted bumpers, dark accents and 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels created a stance that felt both sporty and sophisticated. Audi’s signature lighting defined the Q5’s character. LED headlights with matrix functionality and digital light signatures added precision, while LED rear lights pro reinforced the SUV’s crisp, modern identity. It’s the kind of design that makes you glance back at the car after parking, purely for personal satisfaction. Finished in Ultra Blue metallic, our test vehicle carried colour with confidence – vibrant by day yet deep beneath evening lights. Black mirror housings, roof rails and dark chrome tailpipe trims reinforced the S line’s sportier edge. The overall effect balanced strength and refinement beautifully, equally at home arriving somewhere important or easing confidently into tight shopping-centre parking.

A Sense of Space

Inside, the Q5 greeted us with a cabin that felt instantly considered. The S line interior brought sport seats in a leather/faux leather combination, finished in black with contrasting stitching across the upper dashboard and door elements.

Aluminium inlays and gloss-black accents added contrast. Above, the panoramic glass roof flooded the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness.

Illuminated door-sill trims and ambient lighting elevated the atmosphere after sunset, bathing the cabin in a glow that felt quietly flattering.

Comfort proved just as impressive. Electrically adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar support allowed each of us to quickly find an ideal driving position.

Practicality also shone through. The rear seat bench and generous storage meant everyday essentials found space without compromise – something every driver who has ever attempted to juggle coffee, laptop bag, keys and sunglasses will appreciate deeply.

Seamless Innovation

Audi’s digital environment felt both advanced and refreshingly usable. The Audi virtual cockpit plus delivered crisp, configurable driver information, while the MMI experience plus system with navigation integrated seamlessly into the central interface. Connectivity was equally thoughtful. LTE support and the Audi phone box with inductive charging kept devices powered and connected throughout the day.

Multiple USB charging ports across both seat rows kept passengers content and the front passenger display added engagement for co-pilots who prefer to handle navigation and cabin settings themselves (or enjoy being officially in charge of the playlist).

Everything worked cohesively, creating a premium digital experience that supported rather than distracted from driving.

Refinement In Motion

Under the bonnet, the Q5 40 TFSI delivered 204hp from its 2.0-litre petrol engine – translating into performance that felt smooth, responsive and effortlessly confident throughout our drive. The S sport suspension tuned the ride toward a firmer, more controlled character, giving the SUV reassuring composure through sweeping curves and tighter city roundabouts alike. Direction changes felt clean and settled, while Audi drive select allowed us to move easily between relaxed cruising and more responsive settings depending on the road ahead. Despite its sporty edge, comfort remained intact. The Q5 absorbed urban road imperfections gracefully, maintaining the composed ride quality expected in a premium SUV – controlled when pressed, yet consistently refined over everyday surfaces.

Safety As Standard

Safety and convenience technologies were among the Q5’s most reassuring highlights. Our vehicle featured advanced drive and park assistance systems alongside protective and warning technologies that worked quietly in the background throughout our time behind the wheel.

Adaptive cruise control reduced effort on longer journeys, while lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring observed surrounding traffic with calm vigilance. Front emergency braking, cross-traffic assist and swerve assist added further layers of confidence, supporting the driver without ever feeling intrusive. Parking proved particularly stress-free thanks to surround-view cameras and automated parking assistance, making tight urban manoeuvres feel almost effortless – preserving both alloy wheels and composure in equal measure.

Last Words

By the end of our day with the Audi Q5 40 TFSI S line, its appeal was clear. It combined sporty styling, everyday practicality and thoughtful technology in a way that felt effortlessly relevant to contemporary life.

Refined without feeling distant, dynamic without sacrificing comfort and advanced without complexity, it integrated seamlessly into daily routines. The Q5 ultimately delivered what it promised: a premium SUV that feels as polished in motion as it looks at rest – and one we would happily have kept in our lives a little longer. ✤

It’s the kind of design that makes you glance back at the car after parking, purely for personal satisfaction.”

BACK TO LE MANS

McLaren’s Le Mans comeback is being sold as more than a new race car. Alongside its 2027 Hypercar, the British marque is offering a rare way into endurance racing's inner circle.

For most of us, getting close to an endurance racing team means watching from behind the pit wall. McLaren has other ideas. As the British marque prepares to return to the FIA World Endurance Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2027, Project: Endurance puts a select group of customers at the heart of McLaren's return to endurance racing.

At the heart of the programme is the track-only MCL-HY GTR.

While the MCL-HY will spearhead McLaren's return to Le Mans, its GTR sibling combines ownership with behind-the-scenes access to the team's operations, giving clients a rare glimpse of the pressure and adrenaline that come with competing at the highest level.

The timing is no coincidence. With the Hypercar class now motorsport's hottest ticket, manufacturers are increasingly looking to bring customers along for the ride. “Taking the McLaren name back to the pinnacle of sportscar racing is a huge milestone. We are in a golden era of sportscar racing and the Hypercar category continues to be extremely successful, and our new car name shows respect to that,” said James Barclay, Executive Director of McLaren Endurance Racing. For the lucky

few invited in, the biggest prize might not be the car itself, but a place behind the garage doors. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MCLAREN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GAME ON

Genesis Magma Racing is taking its endurance ambitions beyond the circuit, launching an esports team designed to introduce the GMR-001 Hypercar to a broader audience.

Genesis Magma Racing is making room for a second grid. As the Korean manufacturer gears up for its FIA World Endurance Championship campaign, it's also stepping into sim racing with the launch of GMR Esports, an official team that will compete on Le Mans Ultimate, the championship's official game.

Rather than treating esports as a side project, Genesis is using it to support its wider endurance racing programme. The sevendriver squad will race virtual versions of the GMR-001 Hypercar in official esports events supporting the FIA World Endurance Championship, mirroring the team's on-track identity while helping introduce the brand to a broader audience. The roster brings together established sim racers from Europe and South Korea, blending virtual racing expertise with real-world track experience. Former Formula Sim Racing World Champion Collin Spork will lead the programme, combining competition duties with a technical development role.

For Cyril Abiteboul, Team Principal of Genesis Magma Racing, the virtual programme has a role to play beyond the screen.

“The creation of GMR Esports brings the team, the GMR-001 Hypercar and the Genesis brand to a wider audience and the

success of our drivers in online competition will complement the work of the race team on track.” It's a sign that for manufacturers chasing new fans, the next battleground isn't just the circuit, it's the simulator too. ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.GENESIS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

IN-VEHICLE ENTERTAINMENT GETS AN UPGRADE

BMW Group Middle East has launched STARZPLAY for premium infotainment across multiple countries in the region, including Qatar.

STARZPLAY, one of the region’s leading all-in-one media streaming platforms, is being incorporated into BMW and MINI invehicle infotainment systems, expanding access to premium sports and entertainment content. Available immediately, the service will be available in vehicles equipped with ConnectedDrive across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Jordan.

The content offering combines premium live sports, blockbuster movies, series, Arabic content and STARZPLAY Originals.

The service is accessible directly through the vehicle’s native infotainment interface, enabling eligible customers to access the experience seamlessly while the vehicle is stationary. Content is available on the central display during charging stops, waiting periods or travel breaks, supporting safe use with no external devices required.

The integration forms part of BMW Group’s broader video and TV offering, which also provides access to selected content platforms, delivering a smooth in-vehicle, on-demand viewing experience. This launch marks the first step in BMW Group Middle East’s

broader strategy to expand in-vehicle entertainment capabilities across the region while reinforcing STARZPLAY’s commitment to providing viewers with access to their favourite content. Additional features and content integrations are expected to follow. Availability may vary by model, market, vehicle software, ConnectedDrive package, subscription status, data connectivity and content rights. Video content can only be viewed when the vehicle is stationary. ✤

GO: VISIT BMW-ME.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

EXCITING CONCEPTS SET FOR GOODWOOD DEBUT

MG Motor will stage the worldwide reveal of two new concept vehicles at this month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, previewing future models.

Promising another ‘must-see’ stand at the festival, which takes place in the UK from July 9 to 12, the car maker will showcase its latest plug-in, hybrid, hybrid+ and electric vehicle ranges.

There’ll also be interactive robot displays delivering an immersive visitor experience as well as dynamic hill climbing appearances by the MGS9 PHEV, MGS6 EV and MG Cyberster.

The highlight of the manufacturer’s appearance will be the world debut of the two concept vehicles in different segments of the EV market.

One is a new B-segment electric hatchback due to join the MG range in 2027, while the other is an electric design vision, an aspirational upcoming model to further enhance the MG line-up.

More details and images of the vehicles will be available after they are unveiled by MG’s Global Design Vice President, Jozef Kaban, at 11am on July 9.

Showcasing MG’s latest advancements in electrified mobility, there will also be a display, including the brand’s first sevenseat SUV, the all-new MGS9 PHEV. Joining it will be the all-new MG4 EV Urban, the high-end electric MG IM5, the

popular MG ZS Hybrid+, MG HS PHEV, and the stunning MG Cyberster convertible. ✤ GO: VISIT MGMOTOR.ME FOR MORE INFORMATION.

BIG-SCREEN CINEMA IN A COMPACT FORMAT

Leica Smart Projection has expanded its portfolio with the Leica Cine Compact 1, a flexible mini projector that combines state-of-the-art laser technology with sophisticated functionality.

Providing a straightforward plug-and-play home entertainment experience offering Leica’s renowned picture quality, the projector offers a combination of outstanding picture and sound quality, maximum compatibility and a compact, stylish design. Versatile and user-friendly, it’s perfect for modern home entertainment. Whether used in living rooms, on walls or ceilings, in gardens or on terraces, this smart mini projector delivers an impressive cinema experience with brightness of up to 1,700 lumens and a projection size of up to 220 inches. Thanks to its 360° rotation system, it can even be used without a permanently installed screen. Building on a long tradition of optical expertise that began in 1926 with the first Leica projector, the Leica Cine Compact 1 continues this legacy in a contemporary form. Inside the projector, a precisely tuned optical system ensures outstanding image quality.

A Leica Summicron zoom lens with aspherical elements, a highperformance 0.47-inch DMD image chip and modern Triple RGB laser technology produce razor-sharp 4K images characterised by crisp details, natural colours and impressive brightness. Leica’s proprietary image processing technology (Leica Image Optimization – LIO) further enhances the image performance, ensuring consistently high display quality, regardless of image size or location. Dolby Vision also guarantees precise contrasts and subtle brightness transitions. Thanks to the integrated 360° rotation system, images can be projected from almost any angle, onto walls, ceilings and other surfaces. Automatic functions – such as zoom, autofocus, keystone correction and intelligent screen framing – handle setup on their own, providing a perfectly aligned image instantly with no manual effort required. The optional Leica stand provides

additional flexibility, alternatively, an integrated tripod thread enables the projector to be mounted on the ceiling.

The Leica Cine Compact 1 also impresses with its connectivity and ease-of-use features. Its integrated VIDAA operating system offers direct access to streaming services like Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime. The projector can be seamlessly incorporated into existing setups and flexibly expanded via wi-fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay and Apple HomeKit, as well as HDMI and USB ports. Its integrated sound system delivers clear, expansive sound, which can be supplemented with external speakers via Bluetooth 5.4 or HDMI. The system’s included Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Virtual:X audio technologies provide an immersive surround sound experience.

The Leica Cine Compact 1’s features are rounded off by its elegant design, high-quality craftsmanship and durability. Its solid aluminium Bauhaus-style housing with an elegant glass front ensures precise optical alignment, efficient thermal management and consistently stable performance. Designed for long-term use, its energy-efficient Triple RGB laser technology guarantees consistently high image brightness that will last for many years to come.

The Leica Cine Compact 1 comes with an eco-friendly transport case made from fully recyclable EPP material that combines functionality with sustainability. The case allows for convenient storage and safe transportation of the projector, completely replacing the otherwise standard transport packaging. ✤

SMART CONNECTED E-MOBILITY

Acer debuted its expanded electric mobility lineup at Computex 2026.

The brand showcased updated e-bikes and e-scooters, powered by integrated software to deliver connected and intuitive riding experiences.

The Acer Nitro eCity Plus e-bike and the Acer ES Series 3 Select e-scooter join Acer’s latest electric mobility portfolio.

The Acer Nitro eCity Plus e-bike (ANCI-R8620O-260) is built for versatility and everyday practicality, supporting flexible cargo configurations for commuting and family use, along with multiple riding modes and responsive power delivery for a smooth and stable ride. Its features are complemented by a removable battery design for convenient charging.

The Acer ES Series 3 Select e-scooter (AES033) emphasises portability and efficiency. Equipped with features tailored for daily urban travel, it offers a lightweight, compact and foldable design with multiple riding modes and features optimised braking and lighting systems.

The Acer eMobility app introduces new smartphone-based voice controls, enabling riders to check battery status and control lighting more easily on the go. The app also provides a unified

interface for both e-bikes and e-scooters across Acer’s portfolio. It allows users to monitor vehicle status, battery levels and riding data while providing functions such as lighting control, adjustment of device settings, access to riding history and performance insights.

Through the app, there are also several security features that are tailored by vehicle type. On compatible e-scooters, riders can activate an e-lock function via voice commands; this automatically locks the system when the vehicle is moved and triggers an alarm. On e-bikes, the app provides alert-based anti-theft notifications to help riders stay informed of vehicle movement. ✤

GO: VISIT ACER.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

CALLS SO CLEAR THEY EARNT A GUINNESS WORLD RECORD

soundcore's new Liberty 5 Pro and Liberty 5 Pro Max earbuds have been built for the noisy reality of everyday life with record-breaking sound quality.

Anker Innovations' premium audio and video brand launched the products which are the first powered by the company’s new THUS AI Chip, a custom processor that handles all the AI work directly on the earbuds.

Since internet is not needed, calls stay clear, noise cancellation stays smart and voice commands respond almost instantly.

A 10-sensor system with eight microphones tracks the noise around you, while two bone conduction sensors pick up the vibration of your voice through your skull, all processed in real time by the THUS AI Chip, which separates your voice from everything else.

The Liberty 5 Pro has the credentials to back it up: a Guinness World Record for the highest speech quality score ever achieved by TWS earbuds. The Liberty 5 Pro Max uses the same earbud hardware and delivers identical performance.

Next to world-class calls, the Liberty 5 Pro Max packs a trick no other earbud has. No phone. No app. In meetings, a double-tap on the back of the charging case starts recording. The 1.78-inch AMOLED screen confirms it's working. When your meeting ends, the soundcore app generates a transcript, identifies who spoke and pulls out the action items.

The Liberty 5 Pro keeps things simpler: a 0.96-inch TFT touchscreen

for music, ANC modes and call handling, without the AI Note-Taker. Both models also support translation, through the earbuds on the Liberty 5 Pro, and through either the case screen or earbuds on the Liberty 5 Pro Max. ✤

GO: VISIT SOUNDCORE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

MEMORY,

REVISITED: INSIDE

MATHAF’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITIONS

To reinterpret is not to revise. At Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, it's something closer to listening again. With two concurrent exhibitions, Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf and Resolutions: Evolving Realities, running until August 8, the Arab world's leading modern art institution turns its anniversary into an act of curatorial reckoning, revisiting works that were made decades ago and continue to resonate today. Sirine Boudjadi speaks with researcher and curator Arthur Debsi about the thinking behind the shows.

As part of Mathaf’s 15th anniversary, the museum reinterpreted the narrative of its permanent collection in the exhibition Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf. What curatorial intention guided this decision?

Arthur Debsi: For Mathaf’s 15th anniversary, we chose not just to refresh the permanent collection display but to fundamentally rethink its narrative. Our intention was to present Mathaf not only as a museal structure but as a long-term cultural project originally shaped by the vision of its founding collector, Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. We traced back the museum’s history, exhibitions and collaborations; and explored the collections from multiple perspectives. The new display is thus organised into four chapters, each curated by a member of the curatorial team: Infrastructure: Traces of a Legacy by Fatima Mostafawi; Mathaf as Institutional Memory: An Exhibition History by Hadeel Al-Kohaji; Education: Art as Knowledge Creation by Nora Hussein; and Representation: The Writing of History, by me.

Your gallery explores how artists across West Asia and North Africa developed a shared visual language in the postindependence era. What drew you to that idea of a collective artistic identity?

Every country from the Arab world is represented in Mathaf’s collections and each collection reflects its own distinct characteristics. However, many artworks reveal commonalities in themes, references and artistic approaches, particularly between the 1960s and 1980s. The works that I selected demonstrate a regional artistic movement that highlights artists’ effort to define an ‘Arab identity’. Many of these creatives, such as Iraqi artist Shakir Hassan al-Saïd and Lebanese painter Rafic Charaf,

drew inspiration from sources grounded in a shared historical and cultural heritage including folk literature (Antar and Abla, One Thousand and One Nights) or were committed to political concerns such as the Palestinian cause seen in From the Years of Palestinian Slaughter (1976) by Iraqi artist Dia Azzawi. It was also a moment when the Pan-Arab ideological and political project was spreading all over the region and expanded to cultural initiatives like the First Biennial of Arab Art in Baghdad 1974. In the chapter ‘Representation: the Writing of History’, my aim was to showcase diversity in artist backgrounds and contexts while emphasising the ideas and dialogues that connect their practices.

Resolutions: Evolving Realities is the second exhibition marking Mathaf’s 15th anniversary, revisiting works first presented at the museum’s inauguration in 2010. What drew you to re-engage with these pieces 15 years on?

The curatorial narrative of Resolutions: Evolving Realities is a continuity of Mathaf’s anniversary exhibition. More specifically, it explores the seminal role that the museum has played in building, sustaining and engaging with artistic communities over time. The exhibition examines how a museum collection should not remain fixed in the past but instead functions as a living platform that can be continuously reinterpreted. Through this lens, some artworks originally presented in Mathaf’s inaugural exhibitions – Told/ Untold/Retold: 23 Stories of Journeys Through Time and Space (2010) and Interventions: A Dialogue Between the Modern and the Contemporary (2010) – are revisited in the context of 2026. The themes explored by 10 artists and collectives remain deeply significant today yet acquire alternative discourses in response to both changing historical contexts and through the perspectives of new generations of audiences.

Many of the artists featured in the exhibition were already exploring themes such as memory, identity and social change. Looking at these works today, how has their resonance evolved over time?

Artists often serve as witnesses to their time, yet the issues they address are rarely confined to a specific moment or place. Rather, they tackle matters that resonate across communities and generations. The works in the exhibition show how artistic inquiry can transcend its original context and continue to speak to contemporary realities. These artworks refer to historical, social and political themes. Over time, the concerns that they raised persist. For example, Cow Belly (2010) by Emirati artist Hassan Sharif, critiques the consequences of industrial production and consumerism on the environment, an issue that has become increasingly pressing in the face of today's ecological challenges.

The exhibition places these works back into a contemporary context rather than presenting them as historical documents. How did you approach reactivating these artworks for today’s audiences?

Our approach aligns with our methodologies in the research and curatorial department at Mathaf and that defies the usual comprehension of modern and contemporary art production. We chose a selection of artworks that are connected to the theme of ‘Time’; which indicates the transformation of the artworks’ interpretation. Fifteen years ago, the artwork series titled Fade Away (2010) by Palestinian artist Jeffar Khaldi and the work installation WHY! (2010) by Syrian artist Buthayna Ali, address topics of migration, identity construction and cultural uprootedness. Fifteen years later, it appears that these topics continue to shape and inform our present experiences across the Arab region and beyond.

Both exhibitions suggest that a museum's collection should never be fixed. How important is it for institutions like Mathaf to keep reinterpreting their own holdings?

I believe that museums should be understood as interactive spaces where knowledge is produced, shared and debated. Reinterpreting artworks allows museums to remain relevant to new audiences while acknowledging that the meanings of artworks are never static. They evolve alongside social, political and cultural contexts. Both Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf and Resolutions: Evolving Realities reflect this approach as they invite to see Mathaf not simply as a guardian of artistic heritage but as an active participant in ongoing conversations.

Fifteen years after its opening, how has the way audiences engage with modern and contemporary Arab art evolved, and where does Mathaf fit into that conversation?

Fifteen years after Mathaf’s opening, the way audiences engage with modern and contemporary Arab art has considerably evolved. First, it is important to acknowledge the sustained and collective efforts of artists, scholars and cultural practitioners across the Arab world who have worked to restore modern and contemporary Arab art to its rightful place within global art history. These efforts continue today, and they have been instrumental in reshaping how these narratives are studied, exhibited and understood. In parallel, there has been a noticeable and growing interest in these artistic practices within international institutions, which are seeking to introduce wider audiences to Arab artists and their practices. This reflects a broader and more urgent commitment within the global museum landscape to expand representation and ensure that these narratives are more fully integrated into mainstream art discourse. ✤

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOUR

Bektas Ozcan, Executive Chef, Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection, talks creativity in the kitchen and the importance of food-related memories.

You oversee various culinary outlets at Alwadi Hotel DohaMGallery Collection. How do you innovate across them all?

Innovation starts with understanding the identity and soul of each outlet rather than trying to impose one style everywhere. At Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery Collection, every venue has its own personality, guest expectation and energy. My role as a chef is to create a strong culinary direction while allowing each team the freedom to express creativity within that concept. For me, innovation is not only about creating new dishes. It is also about building culture, consistency and memorable guest experiences. I focus heavily on seasonality, storytelling,

sustainability and attention to detail while ensuring every plate feels genuine and approachable.

Having worked across different countries, I bring together techniques and inspirations from various culinary traditions. In Doha especially, I enjoy blending modern luxury dining with regional warmth and hospitality.

You've worked across Turkey, Australia and now, Qatar. Which place challenged you the most as a chef, and why?

Every country shaped me differently both personally and professionally, but Australia was probably the most challenging

environment in the best possible way. The standards, multicultural expectations and highly competitive hospitality scene constantly pushed me to evolve creatively, operationally and as a leader.

Working in Sydney taught me an open different mindset, precision and the importance of building a strong kitchen culture under pressure. Qatar has challenged me differently – understanding a fast-evolving luxury market while respecting regional tastes, traditions and international expectations. Turkey, however, gave me my culinary soul. It taught me emotional cooking, generosity and respect for ingredients and hospitality. I believe my style today is a reflection of all three experiences combined.

If you had to reinvent one classic dish from your childhood in a Michelin-style version, what would it be?

If I had to reinvent a dish from my childhood, it would be a seafood feast inspired by the Mediterranean coast where I grew up in Turkey.

Echoes of the Qatari Reef is not about sourcing everything from Qatar, but rather what the sea means to me here. The real inspiration comes from the waters of Qatar – the reefs, the heat, the salt and the memories they evoke.

Some of my strongest memories are of simple seafood meals shared with my family by the sea. The fish was always fresh, the flavours were honest, and the focus was never on complexity but on the quality of the ingredients and the experience of gathering around the table.

For Echoes of the Qatari Reef, I wanted to revisit those memories through the perspective of the chef I have become today.

Presented on a coral-inspired sculpture, the dish celebrates the sea that shaped my childhood while paying tribute to the marine heritage of Qatar, where I now live and cook.

What is your signature dish at Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery Collection? How was it developed and what, in your view, makes it stand out?

One of my signature dishes at Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery Collection is our dry-aged lamb skewer, hand-chopped and grilled over charcoal, served alongside fragrant majboos rice. It is a dish that reflects both the soul of Middle Eastern cuisine and the evolution of modern luxury dining. It is proudly featured at our outlet AtTEAtude.

The concept was born from my fascination with fire-led cooking and my belief that simplicity, when executed with precision, creates the most powerful dining experiences. By applying dryageing techniques to the lamb, we intensify depth, texture and natural richness, while the charcoal imparts a distinct smokiness that immediately evokes warmth, nostalgia and connection. What truly defines the dish is its duality – it is deeply rooted in regional heritage, yet refined through contemporary culinary craftsmanship. The knife-chopping technique preserves texture and character, the majboos rice pays homage to Gulf traditions and the overall presentation brings elegance without losing authenticity.

As an Executive Chef, I believe signature dishes should tell a story beyond flavour alone. This dish represents generosity, culture and theatre at the table; it bridges tradition with modern hospitality in a way that feels both personal and memorable. ✤

AN AUTHENTICALLY INDIAN FEAST

true taste of the sub-continent.

Jamaver has a certain reputation in Qatar. Michelinstarred, it is known for both atmosphere and excellence, and I was keen to see if it would live up to the hype – spoiler alert, I was not disappointed.

Entering through the capacious, red-carpeted lobby area, we were quickly seated and, almost immediately, our lovely and knowledgeable server Shivan arrived bearing a selection of papadums and dips, that he took the time to explain, setting the tone for each dish, all introduced with style and flair. A delicious mango and saffron lassi followed alongside an amuse bouche of Gujurati Khandvi – flavourful bite-sized nibbles of chickpea flour, yoghurt and spices, a great introduction for what was to follow.

Chandni Chowk Ki Aloo Tikki – potato tikki, spiced white peas, honey yoghurt, tamarind and mint chutney – was first up. The friend potato was crispy and golden with the spices adding bite and, while I’ve always found the idea of accompanying such an iconic savoury with sweet yoghurt, Jamavar showed it's as adept at street food favourites as the all-time classics, with a dish that hit all the right sensory taste buttons.

Scallop Moilee – hand-dived, pan seared scallops with coconut sauce garnished with a ginger relish and crispy lentils – followed. For this one Shivan happily shared the origin story of a Kerala dish, traditionally highly spiced, that was adapted by a cook named Moilee, to suit the palates of the Portuguese when they arrived on the back of the 15th century spice trade. Whatever the reason, I was truly grateful to the creator, I am a huge scallop fan and these were seared to perfection, slightly crisp at the edges, soft and yielding

within and delicious bathed in the rich, sweet coconut sauce.

Kid Goat Shami Kebab is actually made with minced lamb in a rich bone marrow sauce. The meat and sauce contain a total of 49 Indian spices (another quick fact courtesy of the everknowledgeable Shivan) and though it would be impossible to identify them all, the combination produced a flavour of rare depth; warm and deeply satisfying. It was a delight we returned to many times scooping the, oh-so-soft meat (created for a toothless king!) onto the flaky Char Char Paratha with its crispy, smooshed up texture.

A small pot of Dal Jamavar was the perfect option to use up the remaining paratha. Silky and flavourful, the mix of black lentils, tomatoes, spices, butter and cream has rightly made this a house signature. It’s dal but, typically it seems for Jamavar, that little bit extra.

Tulsi Chicken Tikka – green chicken, always my favourite – came hot from the tandoor served with a delicious creamy sauce. A less spicy version of the traditional red tikka, the meat is marinated in sweet basil, yoghurt and vinegar with black and white mustard. The result is a dish that’s very smooth, lightly spicy and thoroughly appetising to the eyes with its raw papaya garnish.

The last of the appetisers – though most of these dishes were so generous, they could easily be ordered as mains – was the Kasundi Paneer Tikka. This quickly became a second stand-out, a tangy, zesty take on the classic Indian where tandoori spices are swapped for the punchy Bengali mustard blend of Kasundi. The smoky, charred exterior yielded perfectly to the creamy, mild paneer within, stuffed with pickled mango, for an impressive

forkful of texture and flavour.

Not surprisingly by this stage, we were almost fully replete and took the chance for a short break to take in our surroundings. Jamavar’s interiors speak of quiet luxury and understated elegance. Polished parquet floors meet pale plastered walls, atmospheric dim lighting highlights tables set with crisp, white napkins edged in gold, and funky, traditional green Indian chandeliers hang from the ceilings. Seating, in tables and rounded booths, is deep and comfortable, encouraging diners to linger and traditional and contemporary music brings a further touch of atmosphere. The message is clear: at Jamavar, the food does the talking, but the décor provides a perfectly whispered backup.

Back at our table, three types of naan – garlic, plain and flaky lachha paratha – arrived to accompany the impressive spread of mains which were served with aplomb.

Old Delhi Butter Chicken came with Shivan telling the story of how Delhi is split into two parts, old and new, and this recipe comes from a traditional dhaba (street food restaurant) in the old part where the owner didn’t want to waste anything, so he created an aromatic sauce with tomatoes and ghee to accompany the leftover meat. Once again, I was grateful for such creativity. The sauce was spicy and authentic – not quietened for a Western palate – and an absolute joy. The acid sharpness of the tomatoes provided the perfect foil to the rich depth of the butter for a dish that speaks of warmth, tradition and welcome.

The Laal Maas, an eight-hour slow-cooked Rajasthani lamb dish was, I admit, the one dish that truly challenged me. Traditionally made with Mathania chillies, grown near Jodhpur, their rarity meant that here, red Kashmiri birds eye chillis gave the dish its deep red hue and fiery flavour profile. It was a tad too spicy for

me but the lamb was beautifully tender, literally melting from the bone and, if you like your curry with a kick, this is the one for you! Last, but definitely not least for the mains, was the Dum Nalli Biryani. Dum dishes are slow cooked in a heavy pot with a pastry lid so the ingredients, in this case lamb shank layered with yoghurt, fried onions and milder spices, are steamed gently in their own juices to trap all the wonderful flavours. Shivan performed a show of removing the pastry lid and we tucked in to some of the most aromatic and tasty rice I have encountered. With sweetness from the onions and the earthy, slightly gamey notes of the lamb, it resembled a warm embrace for the tastebuds and I would return for this alone.

With literally three mouthfuls of stomach space left, it was time for dessert. After all, no feast is truly complete without a sweet ending and, once again, Jamavar did not disappoint. The Bharwan Gulab Jamun is not just one of the largest in Qatar but also comes topped with edible silver for a touch of theatre. The golden doughy ball was lightly fluffy and the syrup, with its infusion of rosewater and cardamom gave a delicate sweetness that was hard to resist. The Mango Rasmalai came as the traditional, delicate milky pudding with the addition of fruity flavours to cut through the richness. And finally, we were served dishes of absolutely stunning fresh, bright mango reminding us that it’s Alphonso Mango season and Jamavar has a special menu. Head down to make the most of it. ✤

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Found at Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton, IKA is already a firm favourite for its unique blend of live Latin entertainment and feelgood food. Add to that the electric atmosphere the world’s biggest sporting extravaganza brought to WAKA Terrace and we knew we were in for a treat.

Obviously, we were there for the food, but first a special mention must go to the Paradiso mocktail that immediately caught our attention. A long glass of icy soda water with pomegranate seeds, candied ginger and dried lemongrass, they, since we actually had several, were sweet and zingy, getting us off to the perfect start on a warm Doha night.

Both myself and my dining companion chose the IKA Caesar –baby gem lettuce, garlic croutons, black pepper and generous sprinkles of parmesan and pomegranate seeds. The all-important dressing, rich and creamy with just the faintest hint of salty anchovy, came served on the side, a great touch allowing us to add as much or as little as we wanted. The lettuce was beautifully fresh and crisp with extra crunch from the smoky croutons and the chicken I added was soft and tender.

I’m a big fan of sharing dishes (especially when I get to tuck into someone else’s). And, it should be said that everything we ordered at IKA was more than enough for two, so I didn’t feel the slightest guilt in spearing some of my friend’s Calamares Crocantes. Served with lime aioli and fried in a light, crispy batter, the seafood was surprisingly sweet and succulent, perfectly chewy with the delicious lightness of flavour that only comes with extreme freshness. She also ordered Cachapas (Corn Pancakes), a new dish for me and one that became an instant hit with us both. Made with sweetcorn and corn flour, the pancakes were thick and toasty, lightly sweet with a really satisfying, chunky texture. Topped with creamy white cheese and tiny slices of green onion, this Venezuelan dish is one I’ll definitely have again.

My Ceviche (yes, mine, definitely mine, not sharing this one) was a meal in itself. Robust chunks of seabass provided the perfect base, the firm, flaky fish absorbing the bold heat of the leche de tigre, aji limo and cilantro. Served with red onion, Peruvian corn and sweet potato, the toasted corn kernels offered a delicious salty crunch balancing the acidity of the leche de tigre, while the starchy sweet potato was a smooth comfort alongside the delicate heat. From the mains menu, I ordered Pollo Tipakay – I always love to try new things and this sounded really interesting, particularly as I really enjoy the deep, musky sweetness of tamarind. Crispy smoky chicken in tamarind sauce with ginger and soy, came with sauteed vegetables and a generous handful of crunchy rocket garnished with green onions and sesame. What a wonderfully inventive combination of flavours and textures. The vegetables brought brightness and crunch while the deeply fried chicken was perfect bite-sized morsels of sweet tamarind coating with the nuttiness of sesame. This was definitely another winner at our table and I could even see our neighbours casting envious glances.

My dining companion, already overfull with lettuce and calamari ordered what we expected to be a simple portion of grilled vegetables. We were not prepared for the abundance that soon arrived at the table, superbly impressive in both generosity and presentation. A hot skillet bore potato wedges, piping hot and crispy on the outside, fluffy and yielding within, accompanied by what we were sure must be every vegetable in the kitchen –glossy red, green and yellow peppers, assorted juicy mushrooms, along with crisp carrot slices and sweet courgettes. For anyone who’s plant-based, this would be a perfect meal on its own. For us, it was the ideal opportunity for yet more indulgence with the crunchy sweet veggies encouraging us to meet our daily portion quota without any guilt.

With our stomachs full to almost uncomfortable levels, even the promise of the gorgeous looking tres leches coming from the kitchen couldn’t tempt us to another morsel – an excuse, if one were needed, for a quick return.

And so, I can safely say, IKA South American with its bold artworks, inviting greenery and fun stick lighting is a spot where we felt truly welcomed and, if you’re a footie fan, it’s the ideal place to catch the games with friends in a great atmosphere –though, be warned, with the definite South American influence all around, if one of the Latin teams is playing, I imagine it could get a bit boisterous, and probably all the more enjoyable for it. ✤

A DOHA CLASSIC THAT STILL GETS EVERYTHING RIGHT

When one of your favourite steakhouses launches a new set menu, curiosity tends to win. SD headed to Bentley's Grill at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha to put the new Chateaubriand Set Menu for Two to the test.

Bentley's Grill is one of those gems that only true connoisseurs in Doha know. We're regulars here, naturally, so a return visit is never surprising.

We head out to Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha on a Thursday night, and the atmosphere hits that rare sweet spot, lively enough to feel like something’s happening, but restrained enough to stay elegant, intimate and far from the usual crowded chaos of Doha's busier weekend spots. What we love about Bentley's Grill (and Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha in general) is the staff seem to really love the place. Most of them have been there for decades, and they're present and smiling every time you visit. They always remember you by name and it's such a special, underrated experience when the staff are so joyful.

A Steakhouse Frozen in Time

The interiors are classic, sophisticated and evoke luxury in every sense. Classic, mid-century-style chandeliers cast warm light across the dining space, making the atmosphere rather romantic or intimate. The dark mahogany woods wrap the space making it feel like a sophisticated cross between an old-world library and a masculine steakhouse. There's a lovely cinematic feeling that surrounds the space. A back-lit gallery wall with framed artworks keeps our eyes busy, as we await our first course. The Chateaubriand Set Menu for Two is an incredible offer - two portions of an appetiser, 600g of tenderloin cooked to your liking and dessert - for just QR580. And we can't possibly refuse this offer. They start us off with an amuse bouche - a slice of smoked salmon drizzled with honey mustard and seaweed - a nice

marriage of sweet and salty flavours and just what we need to whet our appetites. A welcome drink makes an appearance and a rather exciting selection of butter and bread tags along. The flavours are unique: a feta cheese butter, a lemon and parsley butter that's lightly zesty and wonderfully herby and finally, our absolute favourite, a roasted bell pepper butter. We’re so engrossed in breaking down every scent in this brilliant butter showcase, and almost don't notice our appetiser arriving.

Love at First Bite

A very aesthetic Prawns Mango Avocado Cocktail is perfectly presented – love at first sight, we'd say, until we taste it. Then it's love at first bite. And as cheesy as that sounds, you'll find nothing to fault in this preparation. The freshness from the mango and avocado complements the prawns, and everything is held together by a light but delicious cocktail sauce. Outside the Chateaubriand Set Menu, but an absolute must-have on every visit of ours here, we get ready for some bone marrow carved tableside. Is it really carved when it slides off the bone like a dollop of hot butter? Crispy pieces of bread hold the marrow and we generously top it up with the chimmichurri served alongside. This bone marrow has never disappointed to date and we can proudly report back on another hat-trick.

The main event is 600 grams of tenderloin. Not to sound morbid but if we were asked for a final meal on death row, it would be this. Succulent meat cooked to medium-rare perfection and not surprisingly, it needs absolutely no extra seasoning. That's not to say we're not going to pour some green peppercorn or

mushroom sauce over it – anything we add is only going to enhance flavour here. Six hundred grams is a lot. Who cares about dessert at this point? Our mission is clear. Demolish that steak. It's not that hard when our knives slide right through. This is a superior dining experience – the kind that makes you thankful for everything. Thankful to be seated in a stunning steakhouse eating some of the city's most incredible meat dishes.

One Gram Too Far

Right now, 601 grams is out of the question. We've eliminated the steak and dessert is calling, but we've never been more unsure of ourselves. There's no way we can consume even a single gram more. Fine, bring in dessert. It's a properly pretty

classic cheesecake with a berry compote and ice cream on the side. Very indulgent. Very hard to finish. We're currently looking at local delivery apps for adult strollers that can be delivered in 20 minutes. Spoiler – they don't exist. We'll have to walk out, on our legs, taking steps all the way to the parking lot. This can be classified as a trek. But is it worth it? Absolutely. Bentley's Grill is a great night out – excellent steak, service that feels like home, sophisticated setting and an overall unforgettable experience. ✤

A JEWEL IN THE CROWN

discovered a veritable

on a

Since I was lucky enough to be staying at Al Messila, I approached through the stunning grounds, but heading to the restaurant through the lobby is equally as impressive and I was quickly seated and enjoying the amazing aromas wafting my way from the tables around me.

Almost immediately, my lovely server brought crunchy rolled papadums that shattered satisfyingly as I broke them apart to dip in the selection of sauces. They were accompanied by the house speciality drink, a Jarjeer Mojito, which, I have to admit, I found a bit salty but nonetheless refreshing with its mint, lime and spices.

Plates to Whet the Appetite

My first dish of the evening was Champaran Murgh Tikka –chicken thigh marinated with yoghurt, basil and coriander and cooked in the tandoor oven. Delicately flavoured, the meat was meltingly succulent and tender, the mix of herbs giving a gentle coating that burst on the tongue. In the interests of research, I added a half portion of Adraki Gosht Ke Chaap and was very glad I did. The Australian lamb chops came marinated in yoghurt and black pepper for a touch of bite. With the majority of the fat trimmed, that which remained bore a delicious char adding to the meat’s delicate, sweet flavour. All too often in Indian cuisine I find the spices can overpower the lightness of lamb (hence the popularity of mutton) but here, the combination was perfection allowing the meat to really shine.

I can never resist potatoes in their many and various forms and feeling a little greedy, I tried half portions of two potato dishes

(huge thanks to the team for indulging me) – very different and each exciting in its own right.

Aloo Papdi Chaat – a North Indian street food favourite –brought crunch in the form of fried spicy wafers layered with soft boiled potatoes, a fabulous textural contrast, topped with sweet, creamy whipped yoghurt redolent with delicate spices and the light hint of tamarind. When I first tried this dish many years ago, I was slightly wary of sweetness topping my beloved potatoes but done well, as it was at Taj Rasoi, the combination of flavours stages a party for the taste buds and I couldn’t have been happier.

Bharwan Tandoori Potato was a different option altogether. Spicy mashed potato stuffed into a crispy potato shell with nuts and spices and cooked in the tandoor. Think of the best loaded skins you’ve ever tasted and you might be half way there. The shell had been baked until deliciously crunchy while the filling, slightly salty with the heat of the spices and the earthiness of the nuts formed a deeply satisfying mouthful to which I kept returning throughout the meal.

I’m a firm believer that one shouldn’t visit an Indian restaurant without sampling the Aloo Ghobi Mutter Ki Sabji – I’m almost as devoted to cauliflower as I am to potatoes! Once again, Taj Rasoi did not disappoint. Generous chunks of cauli were accompanied by potato and green peas, tossed with onions, tomato and Indian spices. Between garlic and ginger, coriander and cumin and more, much more, I was in sensory heaven. My taste buds were fully engaged trying (and I’m sure failing) to identify all the elements that go into making this dish such a winner.

A Delightful Venue

By now, it was well and truly time to take a breather to explore my surroundings and enjoy a cup of digestive tea.

Taj Rasoi is really rather gorgeous in its décor. Gleaming wooden floors give a touch of tradition alongside wood panelled walls. Vaulted ceilings in white and the palest blue pick up the deep blue of plush velvet seating and impressive, many-armed chandeliers which cast an intimate light in the evenings. During the day, arched windows and doors flood the space with glorious natural light. And don’t miss the peacock paintings at the entry, a tribute to the eye-catching bird you might just spot roaming the grounds.

Visiting on the cusp of Qatar’s balmy spring and full-on summer inferno, I chose to sit outside where I could take in the sights, sounds and scents of the surrounding gardens and pool – if it’s not too hot, this is the perfect space to fully appreciate this outstanding venue.

The Main Event

Soon, I headed back to my table for the arrival of Gosht Awadhi Korma – lamb simmered with golden brown cashew, onion gravy and Awadhi spices. In truth, by this stage, I thought I only had space for a few mouthfuls but, when presented with a royal dish from the Nawabi kitchens of Lucknow, my willpower swiftly went out the window and I found myself tucking in with relish. The slow-cooked meat, meltingly tender, spoke of saffron, mace and nutmeg all wrapped in a luscious, silken gravy rich with the sweetness of caramelised onions. Deep, rich and not overly spicy, this was a splendid ending to the savoury side of the evening and a dish I would return for in a heartbeat.

With all pretence at restraint fully abandoned, I embraced Kasari Phirni, the dessert of the Rampuri Nawabs, who knew a thing or

two! Supremely pretty and creamy with hints of rose, pistachio and flower petals, this was understated elegance and indulgence rolled into one. A fitting end to a repast fit for royalty. With my visit to Taj Rasoi at an end, I really could not have asked for more. From the warmth of the welcome, to the team’s willingness to explain each dish with pride and, of course, the gorgeous surroundings, it was everything I had hoped for and more. ✤

The cream of Qatar’s hospitality industry joined us at Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, as we paid tribute to the venues and people that make the country’s food & beverage sector so resilient and innovative.

Marking our 11th edition, this year’s Fact Dining Awards were a little different to the usual – due to the ongoing situation, the event was moved from April to June and, to ensure the comfort of everyone attending, we headed inside.

But, the change of setting certainly didn’t dampen everyone’s enthusiasm for an evening that’s always one of the high spots in Qatar’s entertainment calendar. And the enthusiasm of our readers – the city’s diners, brunchers and snackers, who cast the all-important votes to help establish our winners – was also unchanged. In fact, over the 50 categories and 780-plus nominees, we recorded a massive 140,000 individual votes. This number is a jump of 40% from last year and came as a surprise, even to us!

As always, each category had two winners. ‘FAVOURITE’ chosen by online public votes and ‘BEST’, determined by an anonymous panel of industry experts, mystery shoppers and the fact Qatar team, who are out and about throughout the year visiting venues to identify the best in the business. And, of course, there’s the coveted

awards for Best and Favourite overall –which, at this year’s event, were taken by Kai’s Songbird, Doha, and IDAM by Alain Ducasse.

The Chef of the Year category, now in its third year, proved hugely popular, both with the industry and with our audience. The competition was, as always, fierce, with a significant number of votes being cast. We were delighted to present this award to Khouder Ghourab, Executive Chef at Ahwet Zeitouna, Babel Qatar and Bebabel – a much deserved and hard earned tribute. Of course, the success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our valued partners. Al Messila, a Luxury

Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, our gracious host. The Entertainer, for great giveaways. Candela Entertainment, which provided amazing entertainment. Candeel, which supplied candles. Signature Events for the staging, audio and more. Swot Creative Hub for the stunning digital effects and Dream Machine Qatar for the photo booth. Hostesses from Firma Events helped the event run smoothly, Red Bull staged a fun activation and Genesis put on a stunning display of vehicles.

Fact Qatar would like to offer sincere appreciation to all of them and, of course, to all our nominees and winners for taking part.

Qatar Publishing Director Chirine Halabi, said: “The last few months have been challenging for all of us but we are very proud of how the hospitality industry has coped and, hopefully, we can now look forward to better times ahead.

“We know how much everyone looks forward to this event and, of course, we are aware that the awards is not just a social occasion but also an indication of the health of our industry. Thankfully, that’s demonstrated by the strength of public participation which increases each year. We are grateful for everyone who took part in the Fact Dining Awards Qatar 2026 and we look forward to welcoming everyone again next time.” ✤

WINNERS FDA QATAR 2026

NEW IN TOWN

BEST – Azal - Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha

FAVOURITE – Mila - Rosewood Doha

AL FRESCO DINING

BEST – Babel Qatar – The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar

FAVOURITE – NAAMA’S GARDEN by Twisted Olive – Doha

ALL-DAY DINING

BEST – Market by Jean-Georges –W Doha

FAVOURITE – Al Liwan RestaurantSharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel

BREAKFAST

BEST – Souk Kitchen – Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

FAVOURITE – Sel & Miel Doha –The Ritz Carlton, Doha

CASUAL DINING

BEST – ADRIFT Anda -Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail

FAVOURITE – IKA South American

– Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

BEST – Turquoise - Rixos Premium

Qetaifan Island North

FAVOURITE – The Kitchen –Hilton Doha The Pearl

GREEN & CLEAN

BEST – Al-Sidr Restaurant – Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som

FAVOURITE – Wyld Erth –Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail

IN-MALL

BEST – Sasso – Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Kumar The TravelerPlace Vendôme Mall

INSTAGRAMMABLE

BEST – Opa Doha –The St. Regis Doha

FAVOURITE – AMARU - JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha

THEME NIGHT

BEST – Jazz Night at Chicago Rare –Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar

FAVOURITE – The Salt Road –

Chef's Signature Night - Andaz Doha

VALUE FOR MONEY

BEST – Milk Bun - Place Vendôme Mall

FAVOURITE – Silk Road – DoubleTree by Hilton Doha - Al Sadd

AFTERNOON TEA

BEST – Malaki Lounge – Raffles Doha

FAVOURITE - La Parisienne –

InterContinental Doha The City

BUSINESS LUNCH

BEST – Sabai Thai – The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

FAVOURITE – The Cellar –Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BRUNCH

BEST – Deli Kitchen – Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha

FAVOURITE – Lagoon Restaurant –The Ritz-Carlton, Doha

FRIDAY BRUNCH

BEST – Layali by Vine – The St. Regis Grand Brunch: Patio Edition – The St. Regis Doha

FAVOURITE – Lucia’s Doha – Qatar

SATURDAY BRUNCH

BEST – Sabadao Brunch at IpanemaMarriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

FAVOURITE – Bay View – The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar

SOCIAL BRUNCH

BEST – Beefbar – Al Maha Island

FAVOURITE – Tropicana 360 –

DUSIT HOTEL & SUITES DOHA

CHINESE

BEST – Liang – Mandarin Oriental, Doha

FAVOURITE – Yun - Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

EUROPEAN

BEST – La Petite Maison (LPM) Doha

– Al Maha Island

FAVOURITE – Mosavali Georgian

Restaurant – Printemps Doha

INDIAN

CASUAL DINING

BEST – Bombay Balti –Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha

FAVOURITE – The Curry House –

InterContinental Doha The City

INDIAN FINE DINING

BEST – Jamavar Doha – Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

FAVOURITE – Taj Rasoi – Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha

INTERNATIONAL

BEST – Al Hubara Restaurant – Sheraton

Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

FAVOURITE – Plates – Msheireb

ITALIAN CASUAL DINING

BEST – Bianco Ristorante –Old Doha Port

FAVOURITE – Dante Cucina Italiana –Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

ITALIAN FINE DINING

BEST – Il Galante – Banyan Tree Doha, Doha Oasis

FAVOURITE – Scarpetta Doha –

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail

JAPANESE

BEST – Morimoto Doha –Mondrian Doha

FAVOURITE – Sora Rooftop –Park Hyatt Doha

LATIN AMERICAN

BEST – La Mar Doha by Gaston Acurio

– InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa

FAVOURITE – MURU – Waldorf

Astoria Doha West Bay

LEBANESE

BEST – Debs W Remman –Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Em Sherif Restaurant –Al Maha Island

MEDITERRANEAN

BEST – IZU – Mandarin Oriental, Doha

FAVOURITE – GAIA - W Beach, West Bay

MIDDLE EASTERN

BEST – Acacia Restaurant –

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som

FAVOURITE – Jiwan Restaurant –National Museum of Qatar

PAN-ASIAN

BEST – Shanghai Me – Al Dafna, Doha

FAVOURITE - Provok – Fairmont Doha

QATARI

BEST – SMAT – Doha Corniche

FAVOURITE – Desert Rose Café –National Museum of Qatar

THAI

BEST – Benjarong – DUSIT Doha Hotel

FAVOURITE – Saffron –

Banyan Tree Doha, Doha Oasis

TURKISH

BEST – FIKO – Msheireb, Doha

FAVOURITE – Sazeli Qatar –Various Locations

BAR

BEST – Belgian Café –

InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa

FAVOURITE – The Barn – The St. Regis Doha

CAFÉ

BEST – Harvest – Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Café PouchkineGaleries Lafayette

COFFEE HOUSE

BEST – Noir – Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Zawya Coffee House –The Pearl Qatar

LOUNGE

BEST – SAX – The St. Regis Doha

FAVOURITE – Tulum – Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel

NIGHT OUT

BEST – HIDE – InterContinental Doha The City

FAVOURITE – Zuma Doha –Al Maha Island

OUTDOOR BAR

BEST – Novikov Doha Restaurant & Beach Club – The St. Regis Doha

FAVOURITE – The Secret Garden –Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pear – Doha

POOL SIDE

BEST – ZOH Lifestyle Deck –

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha

FAVOURITE – South Bay – Hilton

Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

SPORTS BAR

BEST – Public House – Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha

FAVOURITE – The G.O.A.T Sports Lounge – Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail

SHISHA LOUNGE

BEST – HuQQa – Al Gassar, Doha

FAVOURITE – Laya Café – Four Seasons Hotel Doha

LADIES NIGHT

BEST – Nobu – Four Seasons Hotel Doha

FAVOURITE – Kaia – The Ned Doha

DESSERT PARLOUR

BEST – Qinwan Premium Dates –Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Traiteur –La Cigale Hotel

BURGER JOINT

BEST – Burger Boutique –Various Locations

FAVOURITE – Hudson Tavern –Mondrian Doha

FUSION

BEST – Trader Vic's – Hilton Doha

FAVOURITE – Soy by Sato –Gewan Island

SEAFOOD

BEST – Al Sayyad Restaurant and Garden – The Diplomatic Club, Doha

FAVOURITE – Ibn AlBahr – Alwadi Hotel Doh – MGallery Collection

STEAKHOUSE

BEST – Hunters Room & Grill –The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

FAVOURITE – Mr. Tailor Steakhouse –

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha

IFTAR & GHABGA

BEST – Layali Katara Ramadan Tent –The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort

FAVOURITE – Al Fayrouz Garden –Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

RAMADAN EXPERIENCE

BEST – Oumsiyah – Katara Towers, Doha

FAVOURITE – Asateer Ramadan Tent – The St. Regis Doha

OVERALL BEST RESTAURANT IN QATAR 2926

Kai's Songbird – Doha

OVERALL FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN QATAR 2026

IDAM by Alain Ducasse –Museum of Islamic Art, Doha

CHEF OF THE YEAR

Khouder Ghourab – Executive Chef Ahwet Zeitouna, Babel Qatar and Bebabel

Follow our new FDA Instagram account @fact_qatar for all the latest awards news.

OULU, FINLAND

Most people couldn't find Oulu on a map. That's about to change. This seaside city on Finland's northern coast is having a major moment as the European Capital of Culture 2026. The year-long programme spans more than 1,000 events, spilling into streets, forests, riverbanks and even neighbouring towns. Expect music festivals, Sámi exhibitions (indigenous culture), light installations, pop-up performances and public art routes like the Climate Clock trail. Food plays a big part too through the Arctic Food Lab, showcasing sustainable Nordic cuisine and local produce like foraged berries including fresh sea buckthorn and reindeer tartare.

When you are not soaking up the festive vibes, Oulu itself is compact and sociable, with a quirky spirit locals wear with pride – this is, after all, home to the annual Air Guitar World Championships! Rent a fatbike (the city is among Europe's most cycle-friendly) and start at Market Square, where waterfront cafés are buzzing and the historic Market Hall does excellent things with local fish. Look out for Toripolliisi, the beloved bronze policeman statue, then follow the colourful riverfront buildings to catch a ferry across to Pikisaari, a small wooden village that feels frozen in time. Outside the city, the wilderness awaits. Winter brings frozen coastlines, snow-covered forests and Northern Lights excursions. Summer brings near-endless daylight, midnight hikes, paddleboarding, island-hopping around the Oulu archipelago and long beach days at beautiful Nallikari. Sauna, of course, is a lifestyle here – and in

summer, you can float down the Oulu River on a steaming sauna raft, followed by a plunge into the refreshing water (or an ice hole in winter).

The ultimate Arctic reset, it’s easy to see why Oulu is finally getting the attention it deserves.

PELOPONNESE, GREECE

The Peloponnese is the Greece that Greeks recommend and tourists often overlook. A rugged peninsula dangling from the southern mainland, it delivers much of what people love about the country: ancient ruins, mountain villages, turquoise bays, fantastic food – almost entirely without the crowds. With more ancient history than almost anywhere else in Europe, this is where Olympia held its games nearly 3,000 years ago, where Mycenae's Lion Gate still stands and where the Byzantine city of Mystras cascades down a hillside above Sparta.

The Peloponnese has always had the ingredients, but what's changed recently is the infrastructure has finally caught up. Access has become easier, luxury hotels are appearing and a new 1,730-kilometre hiking network now links the mountains with the shoreline. Christopher Nolan shot parts of his upcoming film The Odyssey here too, and travellers are already tracing the production through sites like Nestor's Cave and the horseshoe-shaped Voidokilia Beach. Every pocket of the Peloponnese has its own personality. Messenia offers miles of pristine sandy beaches. Nafplio, often described as one of Greece's most beautiful towns, has colourful Venetian architecture and narrow picturesque

cobblestoned streets with cafés and artisan boutiques. Further south, the Mani Peninsula, known as the ‘Wild West’ of Greece, has a rugged, sun-baked landscape with fishing villages and hidden turquoise coves.

Then there's the food. Family tavernas serve grilled octopus, slow-cooked lamb, fresh pasta and salads drizzled with Kalamata olive oil that makes you question every bottle you've bought back home. Finish with diples –fried dough drenched in honey – and you'll start planning your next trip here before the plate is cleared.

QUY NHON, VIETNAM

For years, Quy Nhon was somewhere only long-haul backpackers stumbled upon by accident. Overshadowed by Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, this seaside town on Vietnam's south-central coast, with its pristine shores, Cham heritage and unspoilt feel, is now turning up on global travel hotlists – and for good reason.

The beaches alone justify the journey. Stealing the show is Ky Co, often called the Maldives of Vietnam, with its powdery sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and cliffs that drop straight into the sea. Eo Gio (the Strait of the Winds) is beautiful with its towering rocky ridges and crashing waves, while the nearby islands are good for kayaking and snorkelling among coral reefs.

Inland, there's plenty to explore. History lovers can visit the centuries-old Banh It Cham Towers that sit atop green hills above the ocean. The laid-back village of Bai Xep is worth an early start to watch fishermen pull colourful boats onto

the shore each morning. And when hunger strikes, the city delivers and then some. Street food is what Quy Nhon does best, and Xuan Dieu Street is the place to go. Order bún chả cá, a local fish cake noodle soup, for breakfast, and don't leave without trying bánh xèo tôm nhảy, crispy rice pancakes filled with freshly caught shrimp. A growing number of well-designed eco-resorts and wellness retreats have arrived in recent years, but Quy Nhon remains refreshingly free of mass tourism.

BIG SKY, MONTANA

Sitting in a stretch between Yellowstone National Park and the spine of the Rockies, interest in this upscale Montana resort town has skyrocketed this year. Some call it the Yellowstone Effect, after the TV series that romanticised the American West. But Big Sky's appeal was earnt well before Kevin Costner showed up on a horse.

This is big country, in the literal sense. Mountains crowd the horizon, valleys stretch out wide and you start to feel pretty small pretty fast. Gallatin National Forest surrounds the town, and Yellowstone's geysers and waterfalls are close enough to visit before lunch. Millions visit the park each year and many choose to skip the camping experience and trade their tent for a proper bed and dinner in Big Sky instead. Winter is the main event, and the resort has more than 5,800 skiable acres, among the largest in North America. But once the snow melts, the skis go away and the hiking boots come out. Wildflowers take over the alpine trails, the Madison River fills with fly fishermen and the chairlifts start hauling mountain bikes instead. There's whitewater rafting if you want the adrenaline or a slow horse ride through open meadows if you don't. Elk, moose and bison turn up unexpectedly. Bears too, if you're lucky, or unlucky, depending how you look at it. And on clear nights, the sky, true to the name, is enormous, thick with stars – most only ever see in photographs.

For anyone chasing wilderness with a warm bed waiting at the end of it, Big Sky has become one of 2026's better bets. ✤

FOR HER

fact brings you the latest must-haves from the beauty and grooming world… from skincare to scents and make-up.

ASTERI

Maraya Lip Shine

Designed to deliver a fuller-looking pout, this next-generation lip gloss combines mirror-like shine with a lightweight, non-sticky finish. Infused with warming actives and stimulating peppermint and spearmint essential oils, it activates blood flow for a naturally volumised appearance, while desert date seed oil and cocyl hydrolysed collagen help hydrate, soften and smooth lips. Available in three flattering shades.

GUERLAIN

KISSKISS

Reimagined with a new formula, Guerlain’s first kissproof honey lipstick combines 24-hour hydration with a blurred matte finish. Hive-sourced honey, beeswax, royal jelly and propolis extract combine with a polymer duo for a supple, comfortable, almost imperceptible texture and a bare-lips sensation that stays fast all day.

Housed in a slim, refillable case, it comes in 20 ultra-pigmented shades.

DIOR

Miss Dior

Brimming with Centifolia rose water, this newly reinvented duo of hand and body creams nourishes, hydrates and soothes while subtly scenting skin with fresh floral notes. The body cream's rich balm texture is quickly absorbed, while the luscious non-greasy hand cream offers an instant feeling of softness – both composed of 97% natural-origin ingredients.

CAROLINA HERRERA

Good Girl Blush

This summer, a limited-edition collector's release of Good Girl Blush celebrates the brand's most iconic prints and pays tribute to the polka dot by dressing its stiletto-shaped bottle in white with bold black dots. Inside, the powdery, daring and ultra-feminine fragrance is dominated by two extractions of Madagascar vanilla, softened by a heart of peony, ylang ylang and upcycled rosewater.

SAIE

SuperSuede Baked Powder Bronzer

Talc-free and slow-baked in Italy, this velvety powder bronzer creates an effortlessly diffused, natural-radiant bronze that never looks patchy or cakey. Ethically sourced mica delivers a seamless, radiant appearance, while squalane, hyaluronic acid, jojoba esters and plant-derived glycerine lock in moisture for all-day hydration – available in six shades.

FOR HIM

ACQUA DI PARMA

Bergamotto La Spugnatura Hair and Body Oil

LUSH

Stormy Weather

SINGLESKIN

Day Cream

A part of Dr Gabriela Mercik’s exclusive skincare line and expertly designed at the brand’s Harley Street clinic in London, this award-winning, advanced moisturising day cream deeply nourishes and comforts while improving elasticity and firmness. Powered by niacinamide, urea, lactic acid, pyroglutamic acid salt and natural oils, it helps restore moisture and strengthens the skin barrier, while vitamin E and green tea extract provide antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. Available online and at Dr. Gabriela Clinic in Bahrain.

At the heart of this lightweight hair and body oil lies Bergamotto essence, extracted using La Spugnatura – an ancient technique where the citrus peel is hand-pressed using a sponge by skilled Calabrian artisans, preserving its full vibrance. Part of the La Caletta summer collection, this lightweight oil leaves skin and hair soft, luminous and delicately scented.

LOEWE

Tomato Leaves Body Scrub

Inspired by the unique aroma of a tomato plant just as it is about to burst into fruit, this exfoliating gel features biodegradable cellulose particles blended with natural apricot kernel to gently refine skin's texture. In the warmth of the shower, a crisp, vegetal concentration of fragrance is released, surrounding the senses completely.

Blending the breezes of fresh basil with a musky rosewood embrace, this exclusive gift set – comprising a body spray and shower gel duo – invites recipients to drift into a moment of calm, surrounded by clean but sultry comfort. Made with ethically sourced ingredients.

INITIO

Wild Rush

Part of the new Supercharged collection, this electrifying fragrance’s aromatic fougère is designed to evoke confidence, energy and drive. At its heart is the proprietary JoyDrop Complex, developed to stimulate neurological pathways linked to joy. Notes of bergamot, lavender, vanilla, caramel, red fruits, sandalwood and patchouli complete the composition.

RELIABLY ELEGANT, SEASONALLY STUNNING

The new season’s offering from Italian house Brunello Cucinelli reflects an ongoing dialogue between refinement and ease.

For women, SS26 explores a natural harmony inspired by the elements. Earth influences the palette's myriad natural shades, including sand, ecru, white clay, root and earthy browns. Summer tweeds, macro-chevron patterns, needle-punched fabrics and tactile details add dimension to the colours, combining depth with sophisticated tailoring.

Air brings lightness, freshness and femininity flowing through open-knit patterns, perforated surfaces and mesh and drifting across lace effects, gauzes and diaphanous fabrics.

The quality of water flows through new proportions, updated cuts and ergonomic constructions, giving the silhouettes a strong, compelling appeal.

And fire delivers the passion that drives the pursuit of beauty with vibrant hues, such as red lava, rhubarb and firebrick tones revealing the intense spirit of summer.

For men, the season presents a refined evolution of contemporary tailoring, where relaxed proportions meet precise craftsmanship. Lightweight fabrics, subtle textures and luminous tones define a wardrobe designed for movement, comfort and understated sophistication.

The prestige of wool, silk and linen is evident in the consistently sophisticated, flowing silhouettes crafted from fresh, light fabrics.

Vibrant hues – orange, apricot, royal blue and coral red – take centre stage, blending into sophisticated, balanced colour schemes alongside bright whites and elegant neutrals, while total looks in blue reinterpret an iconic Solomeo shade.

The distinction between formal and informal is blurred. Echoing early ’90s-inspired elegance, the blazer is slightly lengthened. Trousers follow soft lines while maintaining a structured silhouette.

A new capsule collection of cocktail and informal evening wear features jackets with satin-free shawl lapels, paired with silkcotton knits for a sophisticated yet unexpected elegance. Lightness defines the outerwear category: trenches and coats embrace natural movement, with pure silk fabrics combining nobility and fluidity. And knitwear plays with light, fresh textures and subtle details. Precious leathers, supple to the touch and in light tones, evoke refined luxury. Meanwhile, footwear has been reinvented with a deconstructed approach. ✤

GO: VISIT SHOP.BRUNELLOCUCINELLI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

FROM QATAR TO THE WEST END

After years of treading the boards across town, Qatar-born Filipina Yara Fabricante recently made her stage debut in stellar international production Wicked on London’s West End stage. fact caught up with her to learn about her journey.

Please tell us about your background in Qatar – how did you come to be in Doha, which school did you go to and what are your fondest memories of the desert country?

I was born and raised in Qatar, where my parents met. I studied at the Philippine School of Doha until Year 11 before completing Year 12 through homeschooling with Seton. Qatar will always hold a special place in my heart! Not only because of my family and friends who are still there, but also because of some of my favourite spots, such as Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village and The Pearl.

How did you first get into performing and how did you become involved with the Doha Players?

My mum submitted me for an audition for The King and I when I was just four years old, and I was cast as the youngest daughter of the King. I don’t remember every detail, but I do remember how much I loved being on stage and singing the songs from the musical. Looking back, that experience was the beginning of my love for performing.

When did you first know this was going to be your career path and did you ever consider anything else?

During the pandemic, I almost pursued a career in nursing. However, I realised that I wanted to spend my life doing what I love most and am most passionate about, which is performing. Thankfully, my mum reached out to my former singing school

teacher who used to teach at IAID [arts academy], and I was able to complete a foundation year online with the London Music School Jakarta. After taking my final examination with the London College of Music, I was accepted into the University of West London to study Musical Theatre.

Even before your recent West End debut, you’ve had some defining artistic moments in Qatar, such as your 18th birthday celebration – can you tell us about that?

Yes! To celebrate my 18th birthday, we travelled all around Qatar to capture its beauty through photographs. We visited 18 different locations, making it truly memorable.

What was it like leaving home to study in the UK and how was the course?

Moving to London was incredibly exciting, although I did feel homesick at times. Whenever that happened, I reminded myself why I had started this journey in the first place. I’m so grateful that I took that leap, and even more grateful for the unwavering support of my parents. I couldn’t have done it without them.

What would you say were the most important takeaways from it both personally and professionally?

My advice would be to never lose hope. Keep going, stay focussed on your goals and always remind yourself why you started and what it is that you love about what you do.

Congratulations on taking on the role of Nessarose in the 20th anniversary edition of Wicked in London’s West End. It’s a huge achievement; please tell us the steps it took you to get there. Thank you! It took a lot of training at university, as well as countless auditions and rejection, to get to where I am today. Every “no” taught me something valuable and to just keep going, which is the most important thing, never give up.

I understand you saw the show in London with your family 10 years ago. How did it feel to be stepping onto that famous stage yourself?

Yes! I first saw Wicked in the West End 10 years ago with my family, and it was the very first musical I had ever seen. In that moment, I knew I wanted to do what the performers on stage were doing. The singing, the dancing, the storytelling, it was all so inspiring. Finding out that I had been cast in the show was a true full-circle moment. There were lots of tears, and countless “pinch me” moments. Even now, I still get that feeling!

You’re now several weeks into the production’s run. How’s it going and what have been the challenges and triumphs? It’s been going really well, and I’m having so much fun. Performing eight shows a week means I have to take great care of my voice and overall health. That was definitely an adjustment at first, but I’ve learnt how important it is, and it has now become part of my routine.

What would be your advice for any other young hopeful in Qatar who wants to tread the boards on the international stage?

Keep going! Your dreams are never too big. Believe in yourself, work hard and trust that the right opportunities will come your way.

Quick-Fire Five

Favourite street food? Isaw.

Early bird or night owl? Night owl.

Beach or desert? Beach.

All-time favourite song? Thank You for the Music – ABBA

One bucket list item? Skydiving. ✤

IN CONVERSATION WITH SOPHIA AL-MARIA

A television journalist loses her voice live on air: that's the starting point for Qatari-American artist Sophia Al-Maria's latest work, DAMAR TV, presented at the National Pavilion of Qatar at the 61st Venice Biennale. Sirine Boudjadi spoke to her about growing up between two worlds, working with people she loves and letting ideas find their own form.

You grew up between Qatar and the US. Do you feel like you belong somewhere specific, or have you made your peace with being in-between?

The idea of ‘making peace’ implies there was a war to begin with. And I suppose, in some ways, there was. It’s almost like playing oneself at chess. But because this back-and-forth is all I have ever known, I’m not sure I know what a non-bifurcated life would feel like. I haven’t lived in the United States since 1999. I’ve lived in Qatar on and off – going to school there, working there – then in Cairo, and then in many other places, including London, as I split time between my two families. Building a home and a family in a place where you weren't born and have no blood ties has been its own kind of peacemaking.

You draw, you write, you make films. When a new idea comes to you, how do you know which form it belongs to?

The idea leads the form, and it often morphs from one into another. A screenplay I wrote years ago became my first art show. It was a script for an unmade film called Beretta, and it became Virgin with a Memory, my first UK show at the Cornerhouse in Manchester. A television series I created for Sky Atlantic – Little Birds – and the disappointments that came with that experience, became the art film, Beast Type Song. And there are elements I originally imagined including in a comic book called Qasida, which keep surfacing across my body of work. The form I present something in is rarely the final form.

You're presenting DAMAR TV at the Qatar National Pavilion during this year's Venice Biennale. The film centres on a journalist who loses her voice on live television. Where did that image come from?

The film came from a place of personal paralysis. When the war started, I found myself unable to engage with the idea of making art at all – the constant stream of images of pain and atrocity had made it feel impossible. I wanted to process what it means to witness suffering through screens, and what happens when that becomes unbearable. Damar’s story is that question made visible.

You cast Yumna Marwan as Damar and brought in Fatima Al Qadiri, Sulaf Elyas and Sarah Ourahmane. How did those collaborations happen? Were these artists already part of your life?

Yes, almost all the musicians were part of my life. The film had an incredibly tight turnaround, so it had to be built on existing relationships and instinct. Yumna is a long-time friend and an incredible actor and director who I’d worked with before, so there was already a deep shorthand between us. Fatima is also a long-time collaborator, whose track felt perfect for the film. It’s an Arabic cover of an anime theme song that holds exactly the tension between fantasy and reality that DAMAR TV lives in. Sulaf Elyas is a Sudani oud player and songwriter I’d heard about through a friend in Doha; she wrote the beautiful song in the film in a week, from a single brief: what do you do with the revolution

when you get it? What do you do with freedom once you have it? Sarah Ourahmane is a brilliant musician I encountered while collecting dry drum beats in Oran, Algeria – casting her as a kind of anti-colonial lunar character felt right for what the film was doing.

The Qatar National Pavilion brings together very different artistic practices and backgrounds. What did it feel like when that collective finally came together in person?

We had been in the same virtual room frequently in the lead-up, but the opening was the first time we were all physically together. It was raining heavily, a torrential downpour, specifically in the hour the pavilion opened, which felt very epic and dramatic, and which I found beautiful. Being present for the improvisation, and for Fadi’s food inside Rirkrit’s tent, alongside Alia’s sculpture –which also appears in my film – it felt like a beautiful gathering of remarkable people – as the title of the exhibition – untitled 2026 (a gathering of remarkable people) – at the pavilion suggests.

What does your life look like outside of a project, when you're not working?

Being a millennial and possibly a workaholic, I’m not sure anything I’m ever doing isn’t working in some way – though I think I often confuse working with learning. My current obsession is navigation: learning to find my way with a map and compass, with the goal of eventually navigating my way around the world by the night stars.

What are you reading, watching or listening to at the moment?

I’ve been deep in David Graeber’s essay collection, The Ultimate Hidden Truth of the World. One piece in particular, "The Bully’s Pulpit," has really stayed with me. I'm always reading and rereading The Arab Apocalypse by Etel Adnan. For music, I’ve been spending a lot of time with an album called Starfire by SUUTO. And on screen, I’ve been watching old BBC Arena documentaries on YouTube, alongside reference videos that my friend Fatima Al Qadiri sends me for a music video I’m working on for her.

If the woman in DAMAR TV could tell you something, what do you think she'd say?

“Wake up. There's a world around you” – which is also what the editor of Al Jazeera in 2003 said in an interview in the film control room. It was a very important film for me during the making of DAMAR TV, and which I actually think I might even watch tonight.

What's next for you?

Finding my way. Using only a map and a compass.

Quick-Fire Five

A film you’ve watched more than three times and would never admit to?

The Big Lebowski is my comfort view. And Robin Hood, the Disney version.

A word in Arabic that doesn't translate and that you miss when you're speaking English?

“Khali wali.” It’s more of a phrase than a word, though I suppose we have IDGA* for it in English.

A place you keep meaning to go back to but never do?

Siwa.

A smell that takes you somewhere immediately?

Smokes and Chanel No. 5 remind me of the airport; my mother taking us to the airport when I was a child.

A creative collaborator you'd work with in any medium, any context?

Léo Parmentier. He’s my longest and most consistent collaborator, brilliant mind, amazing editor. And Yumna Marwan, without hesitation. I would work with her in any context on anything. And Lydia Ourahmane, always. ✤

Experience a world of premium nuts, handcrafted

MINIONS& MONSTERS MOANA

Director: Pierre Coffin, Patrick Delage Cast: Jeff Bridges, Zoey Deutch, George Lucas, Bobby Moynihan

Boasting an all-star voice cast, the yellow terrors of Despicable Me head to 1920s’ Hollywood with a plan to make their own monster movie. But unsurprisingly, all does not go to plan as they unwittingly unleash some real dark monster forces and must do hilarious battle to save the world. Due for release at the beginning of the month, perfect timing for the school holidays.

NETFLIX

LITTLEHOUSEON THEPRAIRIE

Showrunner: Rebecca Sonnenshine Cast: Luke Bracey, Crosby Fitzgerald, Alice Halsey, Skywalker Hughes

One of the streaming giant’s most hotly anticipated releases of the summer, Little House on the Prairie, adapted from the novels of Laura Ingalls Wilder, follows the lives of the Ingalls family. Set on their Minnesota farm in the late 19th century, it traces the trials and tribulations of frontier life. Those of a certain age will remember the popular TV adaptation of the 1970s and ‘80s.

Director: Thomas Kail

Cast: Jemaine Clement (voice), Dwayne Johnson, Catherine Laga’aia

The live-action adaptation of Disney’s 2016 animated classic, Moana sees Dwayne Johnson return in the role of mischievous demigod Maui, accompanying Catherine Laga’aia’s Moana on her oceanic journey beyond her island’s reef to restore the well-being of her community. Listen out for Jemaine Clement, the villainous giant crab! He’s determined to thwart our heroes.

PRIME ORIGINAL ELLE

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton

Cast: Tom Holland, Sadie Sink, Zendaya

Having erased himself from the lives of those he loves, Peter Parker now lives anonymously as Spider-Man, protecting New York. But, as pressure mounts on him, he experiences a strange and lifethreatening evolution just as a new pattern of crimes reveals one of the most powerful threats he has ever faced.

Creator: Laura Kittrell Cast: Jessica Belkin, Danielle Chand, Lexi Minetree

If you adored Legally Blonde, then we have your summer viewing sorted. With the tagline ‘law school was hard, high school was harder’, this series follows our much-loved blonde through the formative years that turned her into the iconically confident lawyer we were all rooting for.

Some great new sounds for you to check out this month.

CONFESSIONSII

By Madonna

She’s back with the sequel to 2005’s Confessions on a Dance Floor. Continuing her exploration of dance and electronic music, Madonna’s new album was conceived during delays to a planned biopic. A response to world issues, she felt “the world is in a very dark place and people need to dance”. And though some tracks, such as Fragile, deal with difficult familial issues, the beats are distinctly upbeat, for example Bring Your Love, featuring Sabrina Carpenter, which samples Inner City’s 1988 classic, Good Life

MUSIC,FASHION,FILM

By Charli XCX

How do you follow the hyperpop steamroller that was 2024’s phenomenally successful Brat? The answer, for Charli XCX, is to embrace the dark side with a more soft-rockinfused sound for her seventh studio album. Lead single Rock Music features distorted guitars while gently mocking of the genre. The second release, SS26, plays into the fashion side of the title with the line “walking on a runway that goes straight to hell”. We can’t wait to hear what else is in store.

FOREIGNTONGUES

By the Rolling Stones

It’s hard to believe these rockers have been making music for six decades – and they’ve already written half the material for another album, so they’re not giving up any time soon. Recorded over seven years, the latest release includes an appearance by the late Charlie Watts alongside contributions from Paul McCartney, Steve Winwood, Robert Smith and Chad Smith. The first single Rough and Twisted came out in April, offering reassurance that both attitude and musicianship are very much intact.

FULLY BOOKED

PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

Getting Away With Murder by

Shari Lapena

Jill and Ted adore their New York brownstone. They’ve decorated it to suit their tastes and the interiors resemble a magazine photoshoot. So, when financial ruin looms, they plot the unthinkable in a bid to save their beloved home: the murder of a family member whose money will solve all their problems. But, can they get away with it?

HISTORICAL FICTION / CRIME FICTION / THRILLER Cool Machine

by Colson Whitehead

#1 New York Times bestselling author and two-time Pulitzer winner Colson Whitehead gifts us the final volume of his Harlem Trilogy. Bringing New York City to life as it climbes out of recession into the worst of 1980s’ excesses. From the glittering skyscrapers to the displaced people huddling below, the characters spring from the pages in a tale of violence, humour and possible redemption.

What We’re (Still) Talking About?

This Duck’s Not In A Row

Can there be anyone who hasn’t smiled at the antics of Merlín the duck, who became the unofficial mascot of the World Cup when he was spotted joining thousands of joyous fans celebrating Mexico’s tournament-opening victory.

The beloved pet of Carla Gómez and her son Cristian, Merlín has gone viral on social media, strutting his stuff on the streets of Mexico, wearing his green football jersey. His fame has even spread internationally with segments on the winged wonder appearing on Britain’s BBC and NBC Los Angeles.

Crowned a World Cup 'ambassador' for Mexico, Merlín even paid a visit to the country’s presidential palace, where he joined President Sheinbaum’s news briefing, and was granted access to the Azteca Stadium grounds to film a segment with Televisa, one of Latin America’s largest television networks. But then, his wings were metaphorically clipped. Fans had hoped the avid avian Incondicional would be allowed to stay in the stadium to enjoy the match with them. But FIFA said no – that would be against regulations. No ducks in these rows.

Cone Heads For Scotland

Scotland’s Tartan Army of football fans have been winning friends wherever they’ve gone during the World Cup tournament. An estimated 50,000 of them travelled to Boston for their first match, which brought a win over Haiti – the country’s first at a World Cup in 36 years. Tartan Army pipers staged marches as thousands of kilt-wearing supporters created a carnival atmosphere, pubs ran out of hops and a police officer was spotted doing keepy uppies in the fan zone.

So contagious was the fun and good humour that Americans even adopted the

slogan No Scotland, No Party, which was coined in a song by Scottish musician Nick Morgan, to mark his country’s qualification for UEFA 2024.

All good things must come to an end though and, after that first win, Scotland couldn’t maintain the momentum and were soon headed home.

But, in a final tribute to the affection the Scottish fans had earnt, as fans began to depart, America’s TSA (Transportation Security Administration) posted social media images of its sniffer dogs sporting the traditional headgear of the Scottish fan, an orange traffic cone!

Row, Row, Row Your Boat

Norway’s fans have also gone viral at the World Cup with the Viking Row – in which supporters sit together, chant Hu! Ru! and mimic rowing a longboat – spotted across the tournament from stadiums to streets, trains and even back home in Norway. Perhaps it’s not surprising that the normally composed Nordics have gotten a bit excited, it’s their first World Cup since 1998 and the national team was pictured in full Viking regalia before their journey to the US.

In fact, the team even joined in the fun, sitting down to 'row' on the pitch

following their 3-2 victory over Senegal. And, in Oslo, the Norwegian Parliament got in on the act with MPs performing the ritual from their seats in support of the national team.

So far, Norway has had a fair amount to celebrate (not including the slapping from an on-form France) but we can’t help but wonder at the psychological effect of their antics on other teams –imagine watching a bunch of Vikings yelling and rowing, then seeing all 1.95 metres of Erling Haaland chasing you across the pitch!