fact Qatar November 2025

Flavours of the Royal Mediterranean

Embark on a flavourful journey across the Mediterranean every Thursday at Elissar Mediterranean Grill.

Indulge in a lavish set of regional favourites — from Lebanon and Greece to Italy and Morocco.

THURSDAYS FROM 8:00 PM

QAR 245 per person, soft beverage package

QAR 395 per person, enhanced beverage package

For reservations and inquiries, call +974 4141 6050 or WhatsApp +974 3100 3370

We’re Feeling The Need For Speed

“If you no longer go for a gap that exists, you’re no longer a racing driver.” Ayrton Senna “

It’s official, November is our favourite month of the year and not just because the weather is finally cool enough to enjoy all the outdoor activities we love so much. Here at fact, we’re big fans of motoring racing in general, so, of course, the month that brings the F1 circus to our doorstep is something we look forward to throughout the year. And, as the big race weekend draws closer, we all turn into complete petrol heads, quoting dodgy statistics and even dodgier opinions. We’ve kept those opinions out of our Grand Prix Special and stuck to the facts, bringing you everything you need to know about the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix.

Another reason we love November is that, as the temperatures drop, we see a slew of fresh faces around town from new restaurant openings to the launch of the gorgeous Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha, which is our cover story this month. I can’t wait to head there for a staycation.

My colleague Sirine has been eating her way around town, from patties at Burger Boutique and brunch at The Square to breakfast at Anis Café, Chinese at Ruby Wu’s and a taste of her beloved Paris at Fauchon – it’s a good thing the girl has a fast metabolism. And I caught up with some of the movers and shakers around the city, including Vahe Khachatryan, the new GM at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa, and Shaikha and Muneera, the visionary friends behind Soy by Sato.

Elsewhere you’ll find info on loads of upcoming happenings, including two great motor shows, as well as news from the worlds of cars, tech, fashion and more.

Have a great month. We’ll see you at the racetrack!

Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director editorial@fact-magazine.com

FACT Magazine

Qatar Edition • NOVEMBER 2025

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 05 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.

PUBLISHER

RAMI KHALIL

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

CHIRINE HALABI

GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

LIZ O’REILLY

DIGITAL DIRECTOR

NIDHI SHARMA

DIGITAL TEAM

FAREEDA ABDULLA

ROHITH TR

SALES TEAM

ANUSH MKRTUMIAN

ART DIRECTOR

SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONSULTANT

HADY SAMAHA

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION

AJIT KUMAR

NEIL MAHMOOD

EDITORIAL & SALES ENQUIRIES

chirine@fact-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

GARETH WOODS

SIRINE BOUDJADI

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QATAR NATIONAL PRINTING PRESS

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KABAYAN FIESTA IS BACK

Mark your calendars for a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, community and fun with the return of the Kabayan Fiesta, at Desert Falls Sea Caves Waterpark.

Taking place on Friday, November 14, from 10am to 6pm at the Hilton Salwa Beach Resort leisure space, the event offers guests the chance to enjoy a full day of excitement with access to both the Sea Caves Waterpark and the dedicated Kabayan Fiesta activity area, blending Filipino traditions with thrilling water adventures.

Designed as a family-friendly celebration of the Filipino community in Qatar, the event features an action-packed entertainment programme alongside access to the beach and waterpark. Following its successful debut last year, Kabayan Fiesta is one of the most anticipated community events of the year.

The event programme runs from 1pm to 5pm and highlights include:

● Authentic Filipino street food, desserts and traditional cuisine

● Live performances by Filipino DJs, dancers and singers

● Fun and engaging traditional Filipino games and activities

● Exciting giveaways and prizes throughout the day

And that’s not all! A free shuttle service will be provided to and from Doha, with pick-up and drop-off at Villaggio Mall - Gate 2, making it easier for everyone to join the fun, stress-free! Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

While the Kabayan Fiesta is inspired by the Filipino spirit, everyone is warmly invited to join the celebration. Families and individuals of all nationalities are welcome to experience the fun, hospitality, and splashy joy with a Filipino touch. Get ready for thrills, laughter, music and unforgettable memories. All set against the backdrop of Qatar’s most family-friendly waterpark.

Entry is priced QR99 per person. ✤

GO: VISIT TICKETS.DESERTFALLSQATAR.COM OR EVENTS.Q-TICKETS.COM TO GET YOUR TICKETS, OR PURCHASE OVER THE COUNTER ON THE DAY.

GO GREEN, QATAR!

Qatar’s biggest eco event is back and it’s all about getting everyone to roll up their sleeves and make greener choices that actually stick. Mark your calendars: from November 1 to 8, Qatar is going green for the 10th edition of Qatar Sustainability Week. Organised by the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, this national campaign is a real call to action.

Over the past nine years, more than 750,000 people have taken part, from schoolchildren planting trees to companies rethinking their waste habits. This milestone year builds on that momentum with a packed lineup of clean-ups, workshops and neighbourhood events. ✤

NEXT STOP: DOHA

Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) is back at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) this November, and for three days, Doha becomes the meeting point for everyone who makes the world move.

From November 24 to 26, the QTM takes over the DECC in West Bay, bringing together the destinations, brands and people who shape how the world travels. It's where tourism, business and culture collide for conversations, deals and ideas connecting everyone from tour operators and airlines to destination management companies, hotels, cruise operators, travel agencies, travel-tech firms, associations and national tourism boards. It’s also Qatar’s chance to show what’s new at home: desert adventures, luxury resorts and the cultural pulse that keeps Doha on the map as the gateway to the Arabian Gulf. ✤

GO: CALL 4485 3000 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

PLAYFUL TAKE-OFF FOR AIRPORT RETAIL

Qatar Duty Free (QDF) elevates airport shopping with a dose of pop-culture flair, unveiling the Middle East’s first POP MART store at Hamad International Airport (HIA).

POP MART, the Chinese collectible-toy phenomenon, has joined forces with QDF to open a 100sq/m store near Gate C18. The boutique feels like a mash-up between an art gallery and a toy museum. Minimalist architecture meets POP MART’s signature cast of characters, displayed against sleek lines and bold colour pops. On the shelves, the spotlight belongs to the Twinkle Twinkle Wonderful Journey collection, unveiled globally for the first time in Doha. Designed for travellers, the line includes card holders, portable storage bags, crossbody pouches and U-shaped pillows. ✤

FESTIVE TO GO

YOUR CELEBRATION, PERFECTLY PREPARED!

Let our chefs bring the festive magic to your table! Enjoy a beautifully roasted turkey, available as a whole or half, complete with all the traditional trimmings, flavorful sides, and indulgent desserts. Add a touch of indulgence with chef crafted favorites like Beef Wellington, Salmon Wellington, and more, all prepared to make your celebration truly special.

LUSAIL’S BIG CHILL

A week of concerts, parades and winter magic set the stage for Lusail Winter Wonderland’s new season on Al Maha Island.

Lusail Winter Wonderland launched its 2025 season in style with a week-long Opening Carnival, filling Al Maha Island with music, lights and family fun. The celebrations opened with a highenergy concert by Daffy, Flipperachi and DJ Outlaw, followed by a Meet & Greet with AboFlah and a lively performance by Akhras to close the weekend. Throughout the carnival, visitors enjoyed colourful parades, roaming entertainers and plenty of photoready moments across the park.

Now open for the winter season, Lusail Winter Wonderland delivers more than 100 rides, games and attractions across its 100,000sq/m space, from family-friendly adventures to heartstopping thrill rides. Highlighted attractions include the Ain QNB Ferris Wheel and the Drop Tower, while newer zones like Bricks & Bounce Inflatable, Snow Top and Snow Bottom bring fresh energy for 2025.

The good news is, there’s room for every pace: gentle carousels and kid zones for younger visitors, classic midway games for families and skyline views from the Ferris Wheel for those chasing that perfect Doha night shot.

Beyond the rides, the park serves up street performances, themed food stalls, and cosy treats, yes, including that famous hot chocolate. Open daily through the cooler months, Lusail Winter Wonderland once again turns Doha’s waterfront into a world of winter lights, adrenaline and endless good vibes. ✤

SHAMS ON STAGE

Lebanese singer Najwa Karam brings her unmistakable voice and timeless hits to Al Mayassa Theatre for one unforgettable night of music and emotion.

Get ready for a night of pure star power as Najwa Karam takes the stage at Al Mayassa Theatre, Qatar National Convention Centre, on November 28. The Lebanese diva, affectionately known as Shams El-Ghinnieh (The Sun of the Song), is set to dazzle Doha with her powerful voice, signature style and a catalogue of songs that have defined Arabic pop for decades.

A native of Zahlé, Najwa first captured attention after winning the TV talent show Layali Lubnan, before studying classical Lebanese music under celebrated mentors Zaki Nassif and Fouad Awad. Her 2000 album Ayoun Qalbi cemented her status as one of the Arab world’s best-selling artists, contributing to more than 60 million records sold globally. In 2017, Forbes Middle East even ranked her number five among the ‘Top 100 Arab Celebrities’, a recognition of her cultural impact and immense regional fan base.

Known for fusing traditional dabke rhythms with modern pop, Najwa’s live shows are pure energy: anthems, improvisations and her trademark charisma. Fans in Doha can expect a setlist packed with favourites including Yelaan Elboaad, Hayda Haki, Khallini Shoufak and Maloun Abu El Eshq, making this a night to remember for Arabic music lovers across Qatar.

Tickets start at QR195. ✤

ENGINES ON

Promising 50,000sq/m of pure horsepower, Qatar’s biggest car show returns this November, bringing supercars, drift shows and jaw-dropping reveals to the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).

CHROME DREAMS AT THE PEARL

From November 19 to 23, the Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest and Exhibition rolls into Medina Centrale, turning The Pearl into an open-air museum of motoring history and design excellence.

Get ready to shift into high gear: from November 20 to 22, the QNCC will host The Grand Auto Show, the country’s biggest and boldest automotive event yet.

Spread across a massive 50,000sq/m, the exhibition brings together more than 300 vehicles, from hypercars and supercars to muscle icons, vintage classics and roaring motorcycles. Inside, the world’s most renowned brands unveil their latest models and innovations, while just a tunnel away, the Live Action Arena lights up with drift shows, stunt runs and high-octane performances worthy of a movie set.

Held under the patronage of HE Shaikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, the event also features a rare glimpse of his private car collection, an unmissable showcase of automotive history and heritage.

At the heart of the show is the Car Catwalk, a 100-metre elevated runway where engines roar, lights dazzle and exclusive reveals steal the spotlight. Beyond the horsepower, visitors can dive into e-sports racing simulators, shop the latest in car culture and meet the passionate community that fuels Qatar’s growing automotive scene.

Three days, thousands of fans and endless adrenaline… The Grand Auto Show 2025 is where Qatar’s love for speed, style and innovation hits full throttle. ✤

GO: VISIT THEGRANDAUTOSHOW.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Get ready for five days of pure automotive beauty as the Qatar Luxury Classic Cars Contest and Exhibition 2025, organised by the Gulf Qatari Classic Cars Association, returns to celebrate the art, craftsmanship and heritage behind the world’s most remarkable vintage vehicles.

Set against the elegant backdrop of Medina Centrale at The Pearl, the exhibition will bring together collectors, restorers and design enthusiasts to admire rare classics that defined entire eras, from early European masterpieces to sleek midcentury icons and luxurious Arab-owned gems.

Visitors can stroll among dozens of beautifully preserved cars, chat with owners and capture the kind of close-up views usually reserved for private collections. With free entry and daily opening hours from 11am to 11pm, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves chrome, curves and culture.

Hosted by one of Qatar’s most active motoring institutions, this annual showcase continues to highlight the country’s growing passion for classic cars and its place in the global automotive scene. Between the Grand Auto Show, the F1 roar, and this showcase of luxury classics, November has firmly claimed its title as the month of the machine. For car lovers, there’s no better time, or place, to be. ✤

GO: VISIT CLASSICCARS.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION.

RUN THE NIGHT: FOR HER, BY HER

Doha’s waterfront will come alive on November 15 as Night Run For Her takes over Old Doha Port, a ladies-only evening of movement, music and community under the stars.

Mark your calendars: November 15 is all about women moving together. Following the success of One Run For All and Night Run For All, the team behind Qatar’s inclusive community races launches a new chapter: Night Run For Her, designed for women of every age and fitness level.

Set against the backdrop of Old Doha Port, the run will transform the city’s waterfront into an evening racecourse where energy meets encouragement. From kids tackling 400m and 800m runs to teens taking on a mile and adults conquering the three-mile route, every participant finds their pace.

The focus is simple: creating a safe, welcoming space for women to move, train and have fun together. Expect warm-ups led by female trainers, a lively fan zone and a finish-line atmosphere that feels more like a celebration than a competition. Routes follow the harbour-side promenade with clearly marked distances and registration and start-wave details are provided by the organiser online.

It’s an easy entry point for beginners, a great workout for regulars and a reminder that the best runs are the ones shared. Whether you’re sprinting for a time or jogging for fun, Night Run For Her brings Doha’s running community together, one stride at a time. ✤

DESERT GRIT

Trail shoes, Qatari sand and a challenge unlike any other: the sixth edition of the Theeb Desert Ultramarathon returns this November, bringing two days of pure endurance, community and adrenaline to the desert.

Get ready to trade city streets for rolling dunes. The sixth edition of Theeb Desert Ultramarathon hits Qatar’s desert on November 21 and 22, bringing together runners, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts for two adrenaline-filled days under open skies.

Organised by the Qatar Sports For All Federation with Trails Sports Events, and held under the auspices of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, the race is recognised by the International Trail Running Association. Think world-class standards, marked courses and that rugged desert backdrop that makes Theeb a fixture on the calendar.

This year widens the field. Kids aged three to 14 can join the cycling competition for the first time, while seniors 60 and above are welcome alongside club athletes and weekend warriors. On foot, runners can choose between 800m, 3km, 10km, 25km and 50km. On wheels, mountain bikers tackle 25km or 50km across packed sand, gentle dunes and windy flats.

Expect early starts, checkpoints and a supportive scene built around grit, pacing and smart hydration. Whether you are chasing a personal best or testing yourself off-road for the first time, Theeb keeps the focus on safe racing and big-desert atmosphere. Ready to line up? Lace up, tune your bike and watch for final start waves and briefing times from the organisers. Two days, seven distances, one goal: finish strong in the sand. ✤

GO: VISIT MSY.GOV.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A CAFFEINE KICK

Back for its second edition, the Teqahwa Exhibition will transform Alhazm Galleria into a paradise for coffee lovers.

Clear your calendar: from November 6 to 14, Alhazm Galleria turns into Doha’s ultimate coffee hangout as the second edition of Teqahwa Exhibition lands with a bigger brew of tastes, tools and technique. After the success of its debut, the event is back to celebrate Qatar’s fast-growing love affair with coffee and everything that comes with it.

This year’s show is crafted for every kind of coffee lover. You can taste signature roasts from renowned producers, learn about bean origins and roasting profiles and chat directly with the experts shaping Qatar’s growing coffee scene. Hunting for hardware? Teqahwa brings the latest coffee-making equipment for cafés, restaurants and home setups, plus premium tools for aficionados who obsess over the grind, the pour and the finish. A highlight of the week will be the Barista Workshops, where seasoned professionals share hands-on tips on blending, roasting and milk art. The goal: refine your technique and deepen your appreciation for what goes into the perfect cup. Alongside the tastings and demos, the exhibition highlights the artistry, sustainability and innovation driving today’s coffee culture. Whether you’re upgrading a café, perfecting a home bar or simply chasing your new favourite brew, Teqahwa keeps it simple: great coffee, right equipment and people who know how to use both. Nine days, one destination, endless aromas… Consider your daily ritual officially upgraded. ✤

A WORLD OF WONDER FOR THE LITTLE ONES

From science shows to creative play zones, the second edition of Kids’ Expo Qatar promises five days of fun, learning and inspiration, all dedicated to the country’s youngest generation.

From November 4 to 8, the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre in West Bay will transform into every child’s dream destination as Kids’ Expo Qatar 2025 opens its doors for a much-anticipated second edition.

Organised under the theme Our Children Are the Greatest Treasure, the Expo brings together ministries, public institutions and private companies under one roof to showcase everything that matters for kids, from education and health to culture, safety and play. Designed for children from infancy up to the age of 13, this year’s event spans Hall 1 and Hall 2 filled with hands-on activities, workshops and exhibits designed to keep children curious and engaged while giving parents plenty to explore. Expect a mix of learning zones, creative corners, stage shows and showcases of new products and services for families across Qatar. The goal? To give parents and professionals a closer look at how Qatar is investing in its next generation, highlighting innovation in child development and education, and inspiring new ideas for supporting children both at home and in schools.

Whether you’re dropping by to spark your child’s imagination, pick up parenting insights or just enjoy a fun day out, Kids’ Expo Qatar 2025 promises to be the place where the country's future takes the spotlight. ✤

GO: VISIT KIDSEXPO.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.

THE RETURN OF FRESH LEVANTINE FLAVOURS

The cooler season is here at last and The Ned Doha has announced the reopening of Hadika, its elegant outdoor garden restaurant.

Perfect for gatherings of friends and family under Doha’s night sky, Hadika is tucked away within the hotel’s serene courtyard. Framed by lush greenery and soft lighting, the eatery promises a tranquil al fresco experience that celebrates the warmth and generosity of Levantine cuisine in an atmosphere evoking the feeling of a private garden oasis. Offering a celebration of heritage regional flavours, Hadika’s menu features a selection of hot and cold mezze and signature mains crafted with authentic techniques and a contemporary touch.

Guests can savour favourites such as Hummus Bil Laham, Muhammara, Chicken Liver with Pomegranate Molasses and the Arabic Mixed Grill, a generous spread of shish taouk, lamb kofta, kebab, lamb cutlets and prawns, served with sumac salad and signature dips. Completing the experience are vibrant salads such as Fattoush with dibs el-remman, hearty Dawood Basha and the signature Kharof Mishwi, an eight-hour slow-cooked lamb shoulder with Arabic spices and pomegranate molasses gravy.

Complementing the culinary offering, Hadika also serves a curated selection of desserts, drinks and hookah, creating a social, welcoming atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from dinner to evening relaxation.

“Hadika captures the essence of the Levant, generous, flavourful and full of life,” says a spokesman for the

restaurant team. “As we reopen for the season, we look forward to welcoming both hotel guests and local residents to rediscover this timeless experience.”

Hadika is open daily from 6pm to midnight.

About The Ned

Created in 2017 by Chairman and investor, Ron Burkle, The Ned originated in London in the former Midland Bank headquarters, designed by Sir Edwin 'Ned' Lutyens in 1924. The space includes a private members’ club, Ned’s Club and a private events floor, alongside 10 restaurants and 250 bedrooms.

The Ned expanded in 2022 to include The Ned NoMad in New York and The Ned Doha in Qatar, found in the impressive former Ministry of the Interior building. Every property is slightly different depending on its location with each building having its own architectural significance and history in that region, but the ethos of The Ned remains the same; to create a space for like-minded professionals to meet, work and have a good time. ✤

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A NEW HAVEN OF SWISS HOSPITALITY

In the heart of Doha’s Corniche, a new symbol of balance, design and vitality has emerged. Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha, the flagship property for the brand in Qatar, redefines what contemporary hospitality can be — a seamless blend of Swiss craftsmanship and Qatari spirit.

A Dual Experience: Hotel and Residences

Both Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha and Swissôtel Residences Corniche Park Towers Doha mark a significant addition to Accor’s growing premium portfolio in the region. The residences, designed for extended stays and business travellers seeking comfort with character, feature stylish branded apartments ranging from studios to twobedroom units, each with its own balcony and sweeping views of Doha’s skyline. Guests enjoy a rooftop swimming pool, 24-hour gym, multi-purpose wellness studio and residents’ lounge with theatre, ensuring that the ‘Vitality’ ethos extends beyond the hotel into daily living.

Design and Rooms

The hotel features 342 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including the signature Vitality Rooms each meticulously designed to evoke calm through natural light, soft oak tones and tactile materials. Every room includes the signature Swissôtel Bed, blending ergonomic design and comfort with panoramic Corniche views.

The interiors reflect the brand’s design philosophy — form

with purpose — where every detail is both aesthetic and functional. Subtle references to the building’s honeycomb façade, inspired by Qatar’s Sidr tree and the precision of Swiss geometry, create a sense of quiet harmony throughout.

Dining Experiences

With six distinctive dining venues, Swissôtel Corniche Park

Towers Doha celebrates cultural connection through cuisine:

● Azal, a reinterpretation of Persian dining through a Qatari lens, offers saffron rice, pomegranate stews and rich traditions reimagined in a modern space.

● Embers, an open-fire grill concept, brings theatre to dining, where chefs cook over live flames, connecting guests to flavour and craftsmanship.

● The Quarter, the social heart of the hotel, overlooks the Corniche with vitality-inspired menus and all-day gatherings.

● L’Assiette, the bright all-day restaurant, serves global favourites with a focus on seasonal, fresh ingredients.

● Node Coffee, grab and go, invites guests to linger with handcrafted brews and artisanal pastries.

● Chezelle, the patisserie and chocolate boutique, celebrates Swiss artistry in pralines and delicate desserts.

Wellness and Vitality

At the core of the property lies the Pürovel Spa & Sport,

inspired by the Alpine seasons and the Swiss philosophy of natural balance. The spa features treatment rooms, hammam, vitality showers and relaxation areas, offering signature rituals using Pürovel products made with essential oils from Swiss herbs.

Guests can also access a hotel pool with panoramic Corniche views, 24-hour gyms in both hotel and residences and multi-purpose fitness studios for yoga, cycling or group classes. The wellness programme integrates aero yoga, aqua biking and vitality cuisine, reflecting Swissôtel’s signature ‘Vitality in Motion’ concept.

Meetings and Events

For meetings and celebrations, the hotel offers versatile spaces equipped with the latest technology and natural light. The Corniche Ballroom, an elegant 480sq/m venue, accommodates up to 300 guests, while smaller function rooms cater to board meetings and social gatherings. Each space is designed to balance efficiency, inspiration and well-being — reflecting Swissôtel’s Vitality philosophy, which promotes movement, focus and mindful breaks throughout the meeting experience.

Sustainability is also built into the design: energy-efficient lighting, filtered air systems and water-saving practices ensure every event supports responsible hospitality. At Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha, every meeting is crafted not only for productivity, but also for balance — where precision, vitality and purpose come together seamlessly.

Distinctive Touches

Beyond its architecture and facilities, what truly defines Swissôtel Doha is its approach to service — guest-centric, intuitive and rooted in authenticity. Every detail, from the honeycomb façade that filters sunlight to the flow between public and private spaces, has been designed to encourage calm and connection.

Leadership and Vision

“I believe great hospitality is about presence and precision,” says Ian Rydin, General Manager of Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha.

“Our vision was to create a place that feels alive — where design inspires, service feels intuitive and every experience reflects both Swiss craftsmanship and Qatari warmth. This is more than a hotel; it’s a home for travellers who value balance, culture and genuine connection.”

Rising along Doha’s iconic Corniche in the heart of West Bay, Swissôtel Corniche Park Towers Doha offers seamless access to the city’s key business and leisure destinations. Guests are within minutes of Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif and Msheireb Downtown, and just a 20-minute drive from Hamad International Airport — making it a strategic gateway for travellers looking to explore the city or connect with ease. ✤

GO: CALL 4000 8888 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.

READY TO RACE!

With the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix just weeks away, the Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is turning up the heat for what promises to be one of the most dynamic events of the year.

The countdown is officially on. From November 28 to 30, all eyes will turn to Lusail, where the International Circuit is preparing to light up the season with one of its most exhilarating weekends yet. Think worldclass racing, live music, cutting-edge tech and a festival vibe that sweeps across the country. An irresistible mix for anyone chasing speed, sound and spectacle!

On track, the drama will be non-stop. Beyond Sunday’s Grand Prix, the weekend lineup includes the Formula 1 Sprint, the FIA Formula 2 Championship, and the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East, three races that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. With championship points on the line before Abu Dhabi’s finale, expect rivalries to flare and every overtake to matter. And when the engines cool? The thrill carries on. The LIC is rolling out a reimagined fan experience, from immersive zones and live performances to new hospitality spaces designed for connection and celebration.

A FESTIVAL BEYOND THE TRACK

Once the chequered flag drops, the lights dim and the party begins. This year’s entertainment lineup reads like a music fan’s dream: the timeless soul of Seal on Friday night, and on Sunday, Metallica, ready to shake Lusail to its core.

Beyond the stage, the action continues across a newly reimagined Fan Zone, a playground built for everyone. Whether you’re here for the adrenaline, the family fun or just the irresistible food, there’s something for every kind of fan. Expect pop-up dining from some of Qatar’s favourite vendors, immersive installations and the Qatar Cultural Area, where local heritage takes the spotlight through Ardha performances, Arabic coffee rituals and traditional crafts like Sadu weaving, pottery, calligraphy and henna art.

FOR THE KIDS (AND THE BIG KIDS)

The family zone levels up this year, and it’s bringing LEGO magic to the desert. For the first time in the Middle East, LEGO’s global ‘Build The Thrill’ experience lands in Doha, letting fans of all ages design and race their own mini Formula 1 cars, play in a LEGO pit lane and take home their creations in exclusive Qatar GP packaging.

And for those who crave tech-fuelled fun, the thrills keep coming: test your reflexes at the F1 Sim Racing Challenge, go head-to-head at the LED Pitstop, climb the DJ Podium to feel that winner’s rush, snap a memory at the F1 Driver Selfie Station or dive into cinematic immersion with the ‘This is F1 4D’ show… Whatever your thrill, you’ll find it here.

To make the experience seamless, the circuit has also introduced a bilingual digital map and navigation platform, a smart, cloudbased guide that helps you plan your route from home to the circuit, explore the venue in real time, and pinpoint must-see attractions, amenities and live shows at a glance.

THE CITY TAKES THE WHEEL

It’s not just the circuit that’s shifting into high gear, the whole country is in race mode. Doha is embracing the Grand Prix spirit with a month-long celebration that blurs the line between sport and spectacle. At Place Vendôme Mall, the Qatar GP Village opens in early November with holograms, VR simulators and interactive design challenges. Across the city, 10 human-sized F1 helmets will pop up at iconic landmarks from Old Doha Port to Msheireb. Whether you’re downtown or trackside, you won’t escape the energy. And honestly, you won’t want to!

INCLUSION AND SUSTAINABILITY AT THE CORE

True to Qatar’s National Vision 2030, sustainability isn’t an afterthought here, it’s part of the engine. The LIC is expanding its green initiatives, from recycling stations built with repurposed materials to solar-powered lighting and an ever-growing fleet of electric vehicles.

Food redistribution programmes will help cut waste and support local communities, while ticket holders are encouraged to take public transport to reduce their footprint. In the F1 Genius Dome and Green Arena, visitors can explore hands-on experiences in aerodynamics, renewable energy and sustainable innovation, proof that speed and responsibility can race side by side.

This year, the LIC is also putting inclusion on the map. In partnership with Qatar Foundation, the venue is unveiling its first-ever Sensory Room, a calm, supportive space designed for guests with sensory sensitivities.

SOON UNDER THE STARS

The SOY outdoor experience is about to unfold.

FUEL FOR THE FUTURE

Beyond the roar of the track, something quieter but equally powerful is taking shape. Through the Qatar GP Educational Tour, classrooms are turning into mini paddocks where students experiment with VR pit stops, explore STEM-based challenges, and take part in interactive simulations of the Lusail circuit. The aim isn’t just to discover future drivers or engineers, it’s to ignite curiosity, creativity and teamwork. That same sense of purpose fuels the Volunteer Programme, which once again welcomes hundreds of locals to play an active role behind the scenes. From logistics and fan services to event coordination, it’s a grassroots celebration of community spirit, proof that a world-class event can also be deeply homegrown. And for those looking to turn passion into profession, the circuit’s partnership with the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) offers real-world experience through internship programmes across sports and event management, fuelling the next generation of talent to keep Qatar’s motorsport legacy roaring ahead.

RACE REPORT

Beneath Lusail’s glowing floodlights, the 2025 Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix is gearing up for a full-throttle weekend. This year’s event follows the Sprint weekend format, which means the action starts the moment the lights go green. Friday brings a single practice session before Sprint Qualifying sets the tone for what’s to come. Then, Saturday ignites with the Sprint itself, a 100-kilometre, half-hour sprint of pure, undistilled adrenaline. Only the top eight finishers score points (8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1).

It’s short, fierce and gloriously uncompromising. With no pit-stop strategies or tyre gambles to lean on, success comes down to raw instinct and precision under pressure. And because the Sprint doesn’t set Sunday’s grid (that honour belongs to Grand Prix Qualifying later that day) the drivers can afford to throw caution to the wind. Expect fearless overtakes, late-braking dives and the kind of wheel-to-wheel duels that make Sprint Saturdays a modern F1 highlight.

Then comes Sunday, the main event. Fifty-seven laps. Three hundred and nine kilometres in total. One of the most demanding circuits on the calendar. The 5.4-kilometre Lusail International Circuit winds through a rhythm of sweeping corners and punishing straights that test precision, patience and nerve in equal measure. Its one-kilometre main straight, among the longest in Formula 1, sets up the biggest overtaking opportunity into Turn 1, a heavybraking zone that can turn any restart into a high-stakes gamble. The reward for perfection? Victory beneath the desert lights and a place in Qatar’s fast-growing motorsport legacy.

MEET THE 2025 F1 GRID

Franco Colapinto (Alpine, #43)

The Argentine driver has joined Alpine as a race driver after impressing in Formula 2, marking his first full F1 campaign.

Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin, #14)

Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin, #14)

The two-time world champion continues his F1 career with Aston Martin for a third consecutive season.

Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari, #44)

The seven-time world champion begins is in his first season with Ferrari after 11 years at Mercedes.

Oliver Bearman (Haas, #87)

The British driver is Haas’s new rookie after debuting as a Ferrari stand-in in 2024.

Lando Norris (McLaren, #4)

Now in his seventh F1 season, the British driver remains McLaren’s team leader and title contender.

Pierre Gasly (Alpine, #10)

The 2020 Italian Grand Prix winner continues as Alpine’s lead driver for 2025.

Lance Stroll (Aston Martin, #18)

Stroll remains with Aston Martin, his seventh season with the team which is owned by his father.

Charles Leclerc (Ferrari, #16)

Ferrari’s lead driver since 2019, though the team has not officially made this distinction from Himilton. Leclerc remains one of the grid’s top qualifiers.

Esteban Ocon (Haas, #31)

Ocon joined Haas this year after four seasons with Alpine, bringing over 140 race starts to the team.

Oscar Piastri (McLaren, #81)

The Australian scored multiple wins with McLaren in 2025 and is currently running second in the Drivers’ Championship.

MEET THE 2025 F1 GRID

Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes, #12)

The Italian rookie made his full-time debut with Mercedes this year after success in junior categories.

Racing Bulls

Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls, #6)

The French-Algerian rookie debuted in Formula 1 after finishing near the top of the 2024 Formula 2 championship.

Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull Racing, #22)

After several seasons with Red Bull’s sister team, Tsunoda stepped up to the main squad for 2025.

The four-time world champion continues his long-term partnership with Red Bull, and continues to court controversy. Mercedes

Gabriel Bortoleto (Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, #5)

The 2023 FIA F3 champion stepped up to F1 in 2025 for his rookie season with Sauber.

Alexander Albon (Williams, #23)

Albon continues with Williams, leading the team’s efforts in the midfield battle.

George Russell (Mercedes, #63)

The 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix winner now leads Mercedes into a new chapter.

Racing Bulls

Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls, #30)

Lawson secured his first full-time F1 seat this year following strong substitute performances in 2023.

Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing, #1)

Nico Hülkenberg (Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, #27)

The experienced German joined Sauber this season ahead of the team’s transformation into Audi’s works team in 2026.

Carlos Sainz (Williams, #55)

The Spaniard joined Williams this year, in a controversial move, after four seasons with Ferrari.

TRACK FACTS

● The main straight at Lusail, stretching just over a kilometre, is the heartbeat of the circuit. It’s where races are made or lost: Drag Reduction Systems open, slipstreams tighten and the bravest dive into Turn 1, chasing glory or praying they haven’t gone too deep. Under the floodlights, visibility is crystal clear, which only makes the racing look even more cinematic.

● The lap record, a blistering 1:22.384, set by Lando Norris in 2024, still stands as the time to beat. But with the 2025 cars sleeker, lighter, more aerodynamically refined and the track cooling after sunset, don’t be surprised if a few purple sectors light up the timing screens before the weekend is done.

● Though still young on the F1 calendar, Lusail has already earned its reputation as a night-racing masterpiece. With more than 1,000 floodlights illuminating every curve, the circuit was built for after-dark speed, and it shows. Off the track, the numbers tell their own story: 52,000 seats, temperature-controlled hospitality suites and a resurfaced layout capable of hosting everything from MotoGP to endurance racing.

THE SEASON SO FAR

McLaren have dominated 2025 from lights out, sealing a second consecutive Constructors’ title in Singapore with 12 wins from

the first 18 races. Lando Norris leads the Drivers’ standings, with Oscar Piastri close behind, a friendly rivalry that’s been anything but predictable.

But the story isn’t all orange. Max Verstappen remains the wild card of every weekend, no longer the untouchable champion, yet still the man capable of flipping any race with one audacious move or perfectly timed call. Red Bull have been streaky, but Verstappen’s pure pace keeps him in striking distance if McLaren stumble under the Lusail lights.

Over at Ferrari, the rebuild continues, but with sparks of hope. Lewis Hamilton’s move to Maranello has been one of the season’s defining narratives. His Sprint win in Shanghai reminded everyone that the seven-time world champion still has the fire, even if Sunday podiums have been elusive. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc keeps the Scuderia’s momentum alive, squeezing every ounce of performance, and pride, from the red car.

Mercedes, too, have shown flashes of resurgence. George Russell’s victory in Singapore brought a welcome morale boost, while Kimi Antonelli, just 18, prepares to take on a full-time seat in 2026. The team’s focus on long-term stability, already locking in next year’s driver lineup, has brought a sense of calm after a turbulent few seasons.

Beyond the front-runners, familiar names and new faces keep the grid unpredictable. Fernando Alonso continues to show his fire at Aston Martin; Alexander Albon leads Williams’ quiet revival; and rookie Isack Hadjar is proving why Red Bull placed their faith in him so early. ✤

ELECTRIC EXCELLENCE

fact spent a day test-driving Porsche’s fastest EV Taycan Turbo S — discovering that electric power can deliver emotion, precision and pure performance.

Electric cars have officially outgrown their ‘ecoexperiment’ phase. We learned that first-hand in Porsche’s Taycan Turbo S — a car that proves sustainability can sprint, corner and thrill on command. This was our chance to see how Porsche’s fastest four-door EV performed across the country’s highways, city streets and our special test site — all while proving that electric can still feel unmistakably Porsche.

Sculptured for Speed

The Taycan Turbo S looks like it was shaped by wind tunnels that refused to waste a breath. At just under five metres long and 1.38 metres tall, it sits low and wide, every curve hinting at speed. Up front, HD-Matrix LED headlights with more than 32,000 pixels showcased Porsche’s latest lighting technology. Our test model’s 21-inch Aero Design wheels — aerodynamically optimised fivespoke alloys with highly polished fronts and Turbonite accents — looked like they were finished with the kind of care usually reserved for fine jewellery. At the rear, the continuous PORSCHE light bar tied it all together with a confident glow — a statement of what just passed you by.

The Turbo S version boasted subtle exterior cues such as the Porsche crest in Turbonite on the bonnet, while SportDesign sideskirts with carbon inlays emphasised its low, aerodynamic silhouette. The aluminium-hybrid body felt solid yet sleek, with flush door handles that glided out on cue — polite, precise and very Porsche.

Style Meets Substance

Inside, the Taycan Turbo S felt focussed yet luxurious. The carbon-matt interior package added trim surfaces in the front and rear doors, with decorative carbon elements running along the centre console. The GT multifunction leather steering wheel with Mode Switch placed drive-mode control right at our fingertips and carried the Porsche crest in Turbonite, mirroring the bonnet’s bold design cue.

Settling into the Adaptive Sports Seats (18-way, electric) was an experience in itself — supportive in all the right places, finished with impeccable craftsmanship and memory settings that adjusted seat, mirrors and steering column. The individual sport rear seats offered the same blend of support and sophistication found up front.

The Sport Chrono stopwatch dial in Turbonite provided a racing flourish above the minimalist layout, while the Race-Tex roof lining whispered motorsport heritage. Carbon-matt door sills glowed softly with ambient lighting, and everything looked purposeful, minimal and confident — in that unmistakable Porsche way.

Tech with Taste

Screens? Oh, there were screens — a curved 16.8-inch driver display, a 10.9-inch centre screen and a passenger display so our co-driver could scroll without trespassing on our side (relationship-saving technology).

Porsche Communication Management (PCM) handled navigation, voice control and smartphone mirroring through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 14-speaker BOSE Surround System with

710 watts of power delivered audio so clean it made our playlist feel underdressed. Activating Electric Sport Sound added just the right amount of theatre to the drive’s soundtrack. Wireless charging, USB-C ports and four-zone climate control with fine-dust sensor and ioniser kept everyone cool, connected and content.

Power Without Petrol

Then came the main event. Beneath that sculpted body lives Porsche’s E-Performance Powertrain — dual permanentmagnet synchronous motors, one per axle, in conjunction with the Performance Battery Plus. Output peaks at 570kW and rises to 700kW with Overboost and Launch Control. That meant 0–100km/h in a breathtaking 2.4 seconds. Blink, and you’re in the next area code.

The Taycan’s dual-transmission setup — single-speed front, twospeed rear — worked seamlessly, catapulting us forward with quiet confidence. Porsche Active Aerodynamics kept everything pinned down, while adaptive air suspension and PASM adjusted damping quicker than we could say “Hold on”.

Even at our test site pace, the cabin stayed calm and composed, helped by acoustic glass and solid insulation. Rear-axle steering gave it agility that felt almost cheeky for a car this size and this fast — a masterclass in control and composure.

Endurance Engineered

Anchoring the Taycan’s electric drive is the 105kWh Performance

Battery Plus, offering up to 626km of combined range. With 320kW DC fast charging, the Taycan Turbo S can reach 80% in 18 minutes — barely time for a coffee. For AC charging, the 11kW system completes a full charge in about 11 hours. Porsche Recuperation Management captures energy during braking and deceleration, feeding it back into the battery — because even slowing down is productive in the Taycan.

The Finishing Line

By the end of our drive, we’d stopped thinking of it as an ‘electric Porsche’. It was simply a Porsche — one that just happens to plug in. The Taycan Turbo S delivered staggering speed with the composure of a grand tourer and the quiet assurance of a luxury car. High-tech yet intuitive, futuristic yet unmistakably familiar. This car isn’t redefining the sports EV; it’s proving that the future of performance doesn’t need petrol — just Porsche. ✤

LUXE FOR LESS

Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles has announced an exclusive new deal on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class hatchback and CLA Coupé 2025 models.

The offer is valid until November 30, with the A-Class Hatchback available from QR159,000, while the CLA Four-Door Coupé starts at QR169,000.

Both models are available alongside the full range of MercedesBenz, Mercedes-AMG, and Mercedes-Maybach vehicles at the company’s showroom in NBK ONE Building in Msheireb, Doha.

The New A-Class Compact Saloon (Hatchback)

The updated exterior design of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class impresses with a new progressive front section, with the Mercedes-Benz pattern on the radiator grille, the optional flat LED headlamps and the optional rear diffuser with chrome trim.

The interior of the car is modern and progressive with a wide range of connectivity and safety innovations as well as the improved MBUX multimedia system and comfort seats.

Thanks to a high-resolution large media display, the second generation of the innovative MBUX entertainment system renders the interior even more digital. Experience the improved operation on the standard 26cm large media display. When the media display is combined with the larger instrument display, what you get is a widescreen cockpit.

The New CLA Coupé

The exterior highlights of the new Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupé include a new front apron, new rear apron and new wheel designs. The vehicle boasts stunning interior design, ergonomically engineered space and state-of-the-art controls. In addition to its extensive standard equipment, it features the advanced MBUX multimedia system with augmented reality technology. And the suspension features adjustable damping. ✤

GO: CALL 800-BENZ (2369) FOR MORE INFORMATION.

HERITAGE AND INNOVATION SHOWCASED

Porsche Centre Doha brought together the city’s passionate Porsche community through Klassics & Karak, a three-week festival sharing the brand’s stories over a great cup of Karak tea.

Held every Saturday at the Porsche Doha showroom, the activation combined a special vehicle display with a dedicated digital series of podcasts and Instagram reels, highlighting some of the most iconic models from Porsche’s history.

The opening episode introduced Porsche’s origins as a sports car manufacturer, from the very first 356 model to the legendary early, air-cooled 911 range, culminating in the groundbreaking 959 supercar of the 1980s.

As the Karak flowed, the second week delved into the era of supercars that followed, featuring the revolutionary, midengined V10-powered Carrera GT of the early 2000s, its hybrid successor, the 918 Spyder, and the forward-looking Mission X concept, which will continue this lineage into the next generation.

Finally, the third and final week of Klassics & Karak focussed on Porsche’s transaxle models, highlighting the Cayenne’s rally heritage and the adventurous spirit of the 911 Dakar. This episode explored the off-roading side of Porsche that has long been appreciated in the Middle East, both in competitive motorsport and as a weekend leisure activity. ✤

GO: CALL 4459 9666 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A CLASSIC CLUB EXPERIENCE

Alfardan Automobiles, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Qatar, has launched the country’s first official BMW Classics Club.

Qatar’s BMW community came together at Alfardan Automobiles’ West Bay Showroom to celebrate the heritage and legacy of the brand at the vibrant launch event. Owners and collectors were able to connect and enjoy a display of classic models showcasing BMW’s evolution and craftsmanship over the decades.

Looking ahead, Alfardan Automobiles will build on the success of the launch event by offering more opportunities to connect, learn more about BMW’s history and exchange knowledge. Future plans for the club include exclusive drives, exhibitions and educational sessions.

As the first certified partner for BMW Classic vehicles in the Middle East, Alfardan Automobiles has been officially recognised by the BMW Group for achieving exceptional standards in maintaining and showcasing classic BMW vehicles with a factorytrained team. This milestone embodies Alfardan Automobiles’ pioneering role in bringing BMW Classic expertise to the region, ensuring that every classic model is preserved and cared for with the utmost authenticity and attention to detail. The launch of the BMW Classics Club will further strengthen community connections and help classic car owners get the best from their

vehicles while preserving their heritage.

Ayman Berjawi, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles, said: “We are delighted to build our relationship with Qatar’s passionate classic BMW enthusiasts through the launch of the club.” ✤

GO: CALL 4447 7577 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A TRIBUTE TO 66 YEARS OF HERITAGE

Alfardan Automobiles celebrated the 66th anniversary of the MINI bringing the marque’s cool personality to life with a special and fun event.

MINI fans and owners were in a festive spirit as they paid tribute to a brand that has become a symbol of fun, freedom and individuality since the launch of the Classic MINI in 1959. The evening captured MINI’s youthful character and playful energy, showing why the brand continues to feel fresh and exciting more than six and a half decades later.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the beloved MINI 3-Door Classic – a timeless model. The car stood as a vibrant reminder of MINI’s design heritage while also pointing to its bold future, from pioneering creativity to the electrified line-up now shaping the next chapter of the brand.

The showroom was transformed into a lively hub, with activities to engage and entertain.

“MINI’s 66th anniversary is not just about looking back at a remarkable history, it’s about celebrating the character and community that continue to define the brand,” said Ayman Berjawi, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles. “From the MINI 3-Door Classic that won hearts in the 1960s to the bold and electrified models shaping its future today, MINI has always been more than a car. It’s an icon of individuality, a cultural mark and a source of pure joy on

the road. To celebrate this milestone here in Qatar, surrounded by loyal customers, passionate fans and new generations discovering MINI for the first time, was incredibly special.” ✤

GO : CALL 4420 8686 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A NEW EV COMES TO TOWN

Mannai Trading, the exclusive Qatar distributor of BYD, the world’s largest manufacturer of new energy vehicles, welcomed the all-new BYD Shark 6 to the country.

The new vehicle is engineered with the latest innovations, at its core is the advanced DMO (Dual Mode Off-Road) Super Hybrid Off-Road technology, a next-generation system that delivers seamless off-road performance.

The Shark 6 delivers 430hp and achieves a remarkable driving range of up to 520km, giving drivers the freedom to enjoy both everyday commutes and weekend adventures. Beyond its exceptional performance and driving experience, the vehicle prioritises safety, integrating the ultra-high safety Blade Battery and a high-strength steel frame through CTB (Cell-to-Body) technology, it ensures robust protection.

The BYD Shark 6 cabin sets a new standard for functionality and modern ambience. The spacious interior and refined design, inspired from spaceship consoles, provide comfort and practicality, while advanced features enhance usability for families, explorers and professionals alike.

“Bringing the BYD Shark 6 marks a new chapter that redefines the lifestyle pickup segment in Qatar,” said Raymonda Jarjoura, BYD Senior Brand Manager. “It combines advanced hybrid technology with practical features and an elevated driving experience,

perfectly suited to Qatar’s terrain and customer needs.”

The arrival of the Shark 6 further expands BYD’s innovative lineup in Qatar, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering advanced new energy vehicles that meet the evolving demands of today’s drivers. ✤

GO: CALL 800 1808 OR EMAIL CRM@MANNAI.COM.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE.

THE LATEST HYBRID HAS ARRIVED

The all-new MG HS Hybrid+ has launched in the Middle East, offering a combination of advanced hybrid performance, efficiency, striking design and premium comfort.

Driven by a responsive hybrid system that pairs a petrol engine with a powerful electric motor, it delivers smooth acceleration, reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. With a range of up to 1,287km, it offers the freedom to travel further with confidence.

The HS Hybrid+ features a bold black grille with chrome accents, slimline LED headlights, a distinctive taillight bar, silver roof rails and a sporty rear spoiler. Inside, the cabin is spacious and driverfocussed, offering premium finishes, heated seating options, dualzone air conditioning and a multifunction steering wheel. The cabin also incorporates distinctive design touches, including a crystallised gear knob.

Technology plays a central role and a 27-inch dual digital display system (infotainment and driver display) provides both style and functionality, while wireless smartphone charging and satellite navigation ensure drivers remain seamlessly connected. For added peace of mind, the HS Hybrid+ also offers MG Pilot – a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Emergency Braking and more. Powering the all-new MG HS Hybrid+ is a 1.5T hybrid engine that

produces an impressive 221hp and 340Nm of torque, ensuring a combined range of up to 1,287km with seamless transitions between EV and petrol engine modes. ✤

GO: CALL 4040 1444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

A FUTURE OF DISCOVERY, WORK AND PLAY

Samsung has introduced the Galaxy XR, a powerful, lightweight, AI-powered XR headset.

Built on an open, scalable platform with multimodal AI at its core, Galaxy XR marks the beginning of the Android XR ecosystem, a new category of AI-native devices designed to deliver immersive experiences optimised for multimodal AI.

As the first product built on the new Android XR platform developed together by Samsung, Google and Qualcomm Technologies, it enables users to enjoy natural, deeply immersive experiences — from daily tasks to bold new frontiers. All apps built on the Android platform work out of the box on Galaxy XR, ensuring users can enjoy familiar mobile experiences. And, since the platform is built on OpenXR standards, it’s easy for developers using OpenXR, WebXR or Unity to bring their experiences to Galaxy XR.

Galaxy XR has been engineered with a human-centric design to deliver long-term comfort. The battery pack is separate from the headset, making the device more compact, light and comfortable to wear. It also features a detachable light shield, offering comfort when removed and deeper immersion by blocking external light when attached.

Galaxy XR opens entirely new dimensions of discovery, providing a wide array of experiences optimised for XR such as Google Maps, YouTube, Circle to Search and Google Photos.

● Users can use Gemini as a guide to navigate to any place on Google Maps and ask for personalised suggestions about nearby places while exploring the world in immersive 3D maps.

● Users can naturally ask Gemini to find content they want to see in YouTube and get more information about the video they are watching.

● Using Circle to Search, in pass through mode, users can see the physical world around them and draw a circle

with their hand to instantly search for information about anything in front of them.

● The gadget brings photos and videos to life by converting 2D images into 3D, turning memories into immersive experiences or reimagining them in entirely new ways.

Thanks to its advanced sensors, cameras and powerful hardware, Galaxy XR can precisely track users’ head, hand and eye movement and make these experiences truly immersive. The device’s microphones are strategically placed and supported by software to filter out external noises and capture the wearer’s voice clearly. Through Galaxy XR, users can explore both virtual and real worlds in XR-specialised apps using natural physical interaction, with assistance from Gemini.

Galaxy XR also opens new levels of immersion in entertainment – including sports and gaming – with its powerful hardware and superior performance.

● Users can stream their favourite shows on a 4K Micro-OLED screen that feels like a personal theatre.

● Sports fans can watch multiple games at the same time, feeling as if they are right in the stadium.

● While playing XR-specialised games, users can chat with Gemini for real-time coaching, tips and enhanced gameplay experiences.

● Project Pulsar from Adobe makes cinematic video edits easy – users can add 3D depth and layer captions or icons behind subjects on a larger-than-life canvas.

Powered by Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2, Galaxy XR delivers next generation immersive experiences with two-and-a-half hour of battery life. ✤

VISIT SAMSUNG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

RETRO GAMING WITH A TWIST

Introducing a power bank that lets you experience the joy of retro games while your phone is charging.

These days we’re all glued to our screens with games like Call of Duty and Candy Crush or gadgets like Nintendo Switch, but how many of us still long for the old days of Game Boy, Tetris and the like?

If you’re a fan of the classics, then this one’s for you. Oscar Japan Inc. has come up with the Mobile Boy (see what they did there?), a clever power bank that comes pre-loaded with 300 vintage games, no internet connection or wi-fi required.

First and foremost, it’s a 5,000mAh MagSafe-compatible battery, a charger that can handle a full charge for most modern smartphones. But what makes this special is the complete standalone gaming system that’s part of the setup.

The layout draws inspiration from the classic ‘80s and ‘90s handhelds with directional buttons to the left, controls to the right and a small display screen.

It’s lightweight at just over 110g and, with rounded edges, it’s pocket friendly too for easy mobility. You can even play while your phone’s charging.

A tiny power display sits at the bottom and the device itself

charges via USB-C. Comes in black, pink and silver with a black background display. ✤

GO: VISIT @OSCARJAPAN.INC FOR MORE INFORMATION.

THE TABLET THAT THINKS IT’S A PC

HUAWEI has launched the MatePad 12 X promising creativity and productivity in one with the NearLink Keyboard and M-Pencil Pro.

The MatePad 12 X is a tablet that combines a cutting-edge, ultraclear PaperMatte Display, the all-new HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro stylus, and a suite of powerful applications. With next-generation hardware and Huawei’s most refined software ecosystem, it delivers an unparalleled experience for work, study and artistic expression.

The ultra-clear PaperMatte Display pioneers a new era of antiglare screen technology. Using high-precision nanoscale etching technology to create a screen that reduces sparkle by 50% compared to the previous generation.

The HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro, Huawei’s next-generation stylus, offers intuitive interaction and masterful precision with 16,384 pressure-sensing levels, delivering exceptional sensitivity. A simple pinch gesture brings up an in-app radial menu for quick access to brushes and colour palettes. The stylus includes three distinct tips optimised for standard writing, detailed small-font writing and expressive painting. Closing the gap between tablets and desktops, the pre-installed PC-level WPS Office suite provides a familiar and powerful suite of tools. It offers a clean menu layout and comprehensive features. WPS Spreadsheets, Presentations, and Writer offer nearly identical functionality to their desktop counterparts. The tablet features a pearlescent all-metal unibody design,

weighing just 555g and measuring a mere 5.9mm thick. The advanced e-coating process, borrowed from the aerospace and automotive sectors, gives the chassis a pure, creamy macaron colour and a smooth finish. Natural mica powder is integrated into the coating to create a subtle, shimmering polish. ✤

GO: VISIT: CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

We’re now open and ready to welcome you to our beautiful new space, where familiar flavors meet a fresh new ambiance. Indulge in the same signature steak experience you love, now with even more to discover.

In Conversation with… Vahe Khachatryan

The General Manager of The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa talks about ‘coming home’ to Qatar and plans for the future.

Congratulations on your new appointment. You’ve worked in Qatar before, what made you decide to return?

Thank you! Returning to Qatar truly feels like coming home. The country’s hospitality scene has grown remarkably, and I was inspired by the chance to re-join this dynamic market. Leading The Westin Doha — a property that perfectly embodies wellness, comfort and modern design — is both a privilege and an exciting challenge.

What’s your vision for the hotel in the short and medium term; any new developments or offerings you can share?

In the short term, my focus is on elevating every aspect of the guest journey and enhancing our position as one of Doha’s preferred venues for weddings and events. We’re refining our dining concepts, refreshing key spaces and strengthening our digital presence. In the medium term, I want The Westin Doha to be recognised as the city’s leading destination for unforgettable celebrations and exceptional event experiences — a place where every occasion feels truly special.

How would you describe your management style and how will you implement this at The Westin? My style is collaborative but results-driven. I believe in

empowering associates, encouraging creativity and building a culture of accountability. A motivated, engaged team is the foundation of exceptional guest experiences — and that’s exactly what I aim to nurture here.

You’ve spent your 20-plus year hospitality career with Marriott Group, what is it about the company that inspires such longterm loyalty?

Marriott’s people-first culture has always inspired me. The company values its associates as much as its guests, fosters innovation and provides real opportunities for growth. That commitment and sense of belonging have kept me motivated for over two decades.

On a personal note, do you have a secret talent or bucket list item that would surprise our readers?

I wouldn’t call it a secret talent, but I’m a devoted dog lover — spending time with my dog is my favourite way to unwind. I also have a passion for travel, and Amsterdam is one of the cities I love returning to. Its mix of culture, design and relaxed atmosphere always inspires me and helps me recharge. ✤

A BITE IN DOHA, A JOURNEY TO ASIA

fact caught up with Shaikha Alharqan and Muneera Alqahtani, the co-founders and driving forces behind Soy by Sato, Qatar’s first home-grown Asian-fusion dining experience, to learn about their story.

The pair first discussed the idea for a venture in 2017 and it took two years to come to fruition with the opening of their first restaurant on the shores of Pearl Island.

They explain: “We met through mutual friends and were close friends before deciding to turn our friendship into a successful business partnership.”

Shaikha is a business graduate from the North Atlantic University, with expertise in finance and operations and a passion for travel. Her academic background and global perspective have shaped her into a sharp decision-maker and strategist, bringing discipline and efficiency into the businesses she manages.

Muneera, a pioneering entrepreneur and the first businesswoman in her family, balances being a devoted mother of five with leading successful ventures. Without formal higher education, her knowledge stems from travelling, reading and life experiences.

Her vision is to transform Doha’s food and interior scene, creating spaces where people feel at home yet inspired. Married at 19, she has become her own inspiration, advocating women’s empowerment and opening doors for other women in her family to pursue independence and entrepreneurship.

Since neither has a background in the culinary arts, their decision to launch a dining empire might not have seemed the obvious direction but they say: “We noticed that high-quality Asian restaurants were mostly limited to hotels, so we decided to create a refined Asian dining experience outside that setting, presented in a unique way.

“We were drawn to the diversity of flavours and the delicate balance that defines Asian cuisine. We gathered inspiration through travel, visiting various Asian countries and consulting with culinary experts in the field.”

And their families were right behind them. “Our families were

very supportive and encouraged us to take on the challenge with confidence,” they explain.

As two women working in a field still largely dominated by men, the path was not always easy but, they persevered and are now an inspiration to other women hoping to join them in the hospitality sphere.

“Our journey has been filled with challenges and achievements, but passion and determination have always been our driving force,” say the pair. “Our message to women is to trust their abilities and start with confidence, every dedicated woman has her own unique mark to leave.”

After several successful years at The Pearl, they’ve now opened a second branch at Jiwan Island, with quality ingredients and passion leading the way.

“What sets Soy by Sato apart is the complete experience that begins with the very first bite,” they explain. “Balanced flavours, high quality and elegant ambience reflect our passion for offering Asian cuisine in a distinctive way that leaves a lasting impression, and that’s what keeps our guests coming back.”

With their extensive travels throughout Asia, we asked them to recommend their favourite destinations for readers to try.

The answer? “Bali in Indonesia and Phuket in Thailand hold a special place in our hearts. In both, we find inspiration in the calmness and beauty that touch the soul, just like the philosophy behind Soy by Sato.”

But, picking a favourite dish from Soy by Sato’s menu was not simple. They say: “We always laugh when asked this question because every dish has its own charm!

“It’s hard to pick a favourite, as each one carries a flavour that reflects the essence of Soy by Sato.”

THE SWEET LIFE

Anastasiya Buyukli, Executive Pastry Chef, Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail, shares her philosophy for building a kitchen ‘family’ and a tale of culinary storytelling. •

What first attracted you to the sweeter side of kitchen life and, after almost 10 years, what keeps the pastry operation interesting?

After 10 years, pastry has become a part of who I am — it’s not just work anymore, it’s a way of life. What keeps it interesting is that there’s always something new to learn, to create and to perfect. Every day brings a new challenge and an opportunity to surprise someone with something beautiful and delicious.

Managing a large team in an area that requires such precision must take a lot of work. What is your management style, and how do you ensure everyone performs at their best?

The kitchen is like a family. And just like in any family, the most important thing is to take care of each other and offer support. I believe in leading by example — staying calm, guiding my team with respect and creating an environment where everyone feels confident to do their best. When people feel valued, their performance naturally reaches 100%.

If you could create a celebration or wedding cake for any celebrity or special occasion, who would it be and what would you make?

When I worked at The Ritz-Carlton Moscow, we often had celebrities staying at the hotel, and we created custom chocolate sculptures for each of them. For Tim Burton, we made a chocolate ‘Scarecrow’ inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas. If I could do something like that again, it would be another creation that combines art, storytelling and chocolate.

What is your signature, and what makes it stand out?

I like to think of myself as a non-traditional pastry chef. I don’t have one ‘signature’ dessert — every creation I make is unique and tailored to the moment. Each dish is a reflection of inspiration, emotion and the person it’s made for. That’s what makes it special. ✤

OF HIGH-PROFILE INSPIRATIONS AND SIMPLE PLEASURES

Marc Razurel, Executive Pastry Chef, The Ned Doha, tells us his kitchen story, including Michelin-starred experiences and a slightly unusual inspiration.

Anative of France with extensive international experience in Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels across Europe, Asia and Australia, Chef Marc’s career spans concept development, kitchen operations, banquets and à la carte as well as fine-dining development of Culinary School programmes.

He's received numerous accolades including Two Hats from Gault & Millau (Australia) – a rating system that recognises culinary excellence – among others.

Chef Marc trained under Michelin-starred chefs such as Alain Dutournier at Le Carré des Feuillants (two stars) and Au Trou Gascon (one star) and the renowned Pourcel Brothers, as well as with MOF (Meilleur Ouvrier de France) pastry chefs, including Angelo Musa, Yann Brys, Christophe Renou and Frédéric Hawecker, and world chocolate masters such as Frank Haasnoot.

He's even contributed to world-class events such as the Roland Garros Tennis Championship in Paris.

Speaking of the lessons learnt from his impressive roll call of mentors, Chef Marc says: “Working with chefs like Alain Dutournier and his Executive Chef Laurent taught me that excellence comes from discipline, consistency and passion. Creativity truly shines when built on strong classical technique. I also learnt that teamwork and respect are essential, great food is always the product of shared dedication.”

And now, in a leading role himself, he aspires to live by his own favourite quote – ‘Creativity is contagious, pass it on,’ – saying: “I foster a culture of curiosity and collaboration by involving my team in tastings, brainstorming and menu development. When ideas are valued, creativity grows and everyone takes pride in what we create together.”

We asked if his 15-year career has ever thrown up any outrageous requests and Chef Marc did not disappoint recalling: “Yes, once a guest had multiple allergies and dietary restrictions: gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, low-fat and no refined sugar. She requested something indulgent, ready in less than 24 hours. I created a delicate chocolate dessert using 41% vegan coconut chocolate, avocado for creaminess, coconut blossom sugar and a rice flour sponge. The result was elegant, flavourful and completely allergen-friendly. Seeing her delight was incredibly rewarding.”

And, seeking tips for our own culinary endeavours, we asked for recommendations on ‘must have’ kitchen gadgets. Chef Marc’s reply? “A digital thermometer, because precision is everything in pastry. A hand blender, which I use constantly for smooth emulsions and ganaches. And a silicone spatula: simple, versatile and essential for clean, efficient work.”

Outside the kitchen, Chef Marc enjoys spending time with his wife and their Husky. The couple are keen divers, with the chef revealing that even his hobbies bring culinary inspiration. “Diving is a way to disconnect, recharge and find inspiration,” he says. “The colours, textures and serenity underwater often influence my pastry creations. I also enjoy travelling to explore other cultures and ingredients, which constantly inspire new ideas in my work.”

Perhaps surprisingly, Chef Marc’s signature dish, and his own favourite, is the humble Apple Tart. He explains: “It’s inspired by my grandmother’s recipe. Made with quality ingredients,

salted butter, and served with a spoonful of fresh crème fraîche, it’s simple, comforting and meant to be enjoyed with family. Sometimes, a simple dessert can be more comforting and memorable than a complex one.” ✤

THREE COURSES TO PARIS

went looking for a taste

and found it in

We don’t expect to stumble upon a slice of Paris in the middle of Doha, but that’s exactly what Fauchon at Marsa Malaz Kempinski delivers. Everything here feels deliberate and composed. That unmistakable Fauchon pink, deep raspberry and a little decadent, runs across the velvet banquettes, climbs the walls, even into the flowers on each table. Around it, black marble tables edged in gold, houndstooth chairs, rounded cream armchairs that could have come straight out of a boulevard café. One wall shows vintage delivery trucks in black and white; another, a close-up of pastel macarons lined up like jewels. At the far end, a large arched window frames the sea. This is where we choose to sit. Beyond the glass, palm trees sway gently, rows of sunbeds stretch toward the horizon and a pale blue light softens the whole scene. Inside, the air is cool, the music low, the whole room moving at a slower rhythm. It could be Paris, if only Paris had a beach view!

Our waiter glides over in that Fauchon way: polite, rehearsed, just enough accent to make ‘bonjour’ sound like a compliment. We're here for the Plat du Jour, the chef’s daily three-part menu: salad, a main to choose from chicken, beef or king prawn, and dessert. Whatever’s coming from that kitchen already smells promising.

Settling Into the French Pace

Our experience starts the way all proper French lunches should, with a basket of bread landing on the table, warm enough to fog the butter. We can’t resist, it disappears fast. The Chef’s Salad follows quickly: layers of crisp greens, ribbons of smoked turkey, slivers of beef bacon and soft-boiled quail eggs perched on top. Pine nuts and croutons add crunch, and a creamy dressing that

ties it all together without drowning the freshness. Next comes the first main: the Chicken Mushroom Roulade. The plate is impeccably arranged: golden slices resting in a pool of mushroom sauce, a swirl of violet mash catching the light and slender batons of carrot and courgette. The knife slides through with barely any effort. Inside, the filling is tender and glistening, mushrooms sautéed just enough to hold their texture. The sauce is buttery and savoury, deeply comforting, yet never heavy. It’s French home cooking that’s gone to finishing school: familiar, refined, never boring.

If you’re more of a meat person, the Beef Brisket Roulade steps in for you with the same elegant setup, though the aroma shifts the mood entirely. It's deeper, slower, the kind of smell that tells you this one took its time. The roulade is perfectly seared, the sauce, a dark, glossy glaze that clings to the meat like it was made for it. We cut through and find it impossibly tender, layers coming apart instantly. Inside, a hint of finely chopped nuts adds crunch, unexpected but exactly right. The violet mash makes a return, balancing the richness with its faint sweetness. After that, it takes something special to follow the brisket, and the King Prawn Risotto more than earns its place. It’s beautiful without even trying: three perfectly pink prawns resting on top, a scatter of parmesan shards and that faint buttery scent that gives everything away before the first bite. One spoonful in and it’s clear why this one steals the show. The rice still has texture, the sauce is rich yet light on its feet, and the prawns are sweet with a gentle hint of smoke. We keep going back for more and more, until there’s nothing left but the shine of the plate!

Paris, Served in Miniature

By the time we reach dessert, we already know what we’re in for. If there’s one thing the French never get wrong, it’s pastry, and

Fauchon has spent decades perfecting that truth. The name carries its own promise: precision, polish, a little indulgence that never feels accidental.

For the Plat du Jour, we get to choose one macaron among six tempting options and I immediately fall in love with the chocolatepassionfruit. My partner goes for the coffee, because it smells like the end of a proper lunch. Both deliver exactly what they promise: crisp shells that give way to soft, chewy centres, the flavours vivid and sure of themselves.

Dessert doesn’t end there. It also comes with the Cake Petits Fours, a lineup that reads like a love letter to French pastry: Mini Bisou Caramel, Mini Bisou Vanilla, Mini Bisou Raspberry, Mini Paris-Brest, Mini Éclair Fig, Mini Lemon Tart, and the house favourite, Mini Gianduja Tart.

Among them, the Lemon Tart takes the spotlight: built on a vanilla biscuit base, crisp and barely sweet, topped with a swirl of lemon curd so smooth it feels almost whipped. A touch of condensed milk underneath rounds out the acidity without muting it, while a tiny crown of meringue on top is torched just enough to smell faintly of caramel. The first bite snaps, then softens — a perfect contrast of textures and tastes: bright, sharp, creamy, gone too fast. The Gianduja Tart, meanwhile, plays on the opposite side of the spectrum: darker, slower, unapologetically rich. It starts with a hazelnut base that gives way to a layer of velvety hazelnut cream, then a thick ganache that tastes like liquid praline. Each spoonful lands differently: crunch, melt, warmth, repeat. It lingers, like good butter and better memories. ✤

BRUNCH DONE RIGHT

Sirine Boudjadi headed to The Square at InterContinental Doha The City to see what makes this brunch a weekend favourite and left with plenty of reasons to go back.

Fridays in Doha aren’t just another day off, they’re a state of mind. The city slows down, the emails stop and everyone seems to move in the same direction: towards brunch, a ritual that truly comes to life at The Square, tucked inside InterContinental Doha The City. It’s one of those names that always comes up when locals swap notes on where to eat, unwind and start the weekend right. Step inside and it’s easy to see why. The space is open and welcoming, with plenty of large tables that make it easy for groups of friends and families to gather, laugh and share plates together.

You can sit near the main action, close to the hum of sizzling pans or choose a more intimate corner, as we did. The curved wooden booths lined with plush blue sofas are especially inviting, made for long and lazy afternoons. It was quiet at first, then the room started to come alive: voices rising, glasses clinking, the live music kicking in.

More than the décor, it’s the sheer scale of the buffet that impressed us. I wouldn’t claim to have tried every brunch in Doha (even if, honestly, I’m working on it), but this one easily ranks among the biggest I've seen. A quick walk around before sitting down and we were already overwhelmed: seafood towers, roasts, sushi rolls and live stations you might not even spot until your second round. We arrived thinking we’d pace ourselves, but that plan didn’t last long. Everything looked far too good to resist!

Brunch Mode, Fully Activated

We kicked off with the cold appetisers. Plates of silky hummus, smoky moutabel jewelled with pomegranate and muhammara rich with roasted peppers and walnuts sat beside vibrant salads for every taste: Chicken Quinoa, German Potato, Beef Sausage… A quick spoonful of each was enough to set the tone: bright, fresh and full of flavour. Just a few steps away, the seafood section stole the spotlight. Mussels tossed with orange and herbs, bamboo trays of sushi rolled with salmon, crab and avocado, and buckets of oysters on ice shucked to order with soy, ponzu or hot sauce. One glance and it was clear, a second plate would be non-negotiable.

Next up, my favourite stop: the bread station, which could have been brunch all on its own. Crusty baguettes, soft rolls, bagels and warm flaky treats fresh from the oven… For anyone who judges a meal by its bread and butter, like I do, this was pure joy.

The hot section turned things up. At the centre, a baked salmon glowed golden beside trays of roasted vegetables, while baskets overflowed with fried shrimp, calamari and whitebait. The air hung thick with the scent of butter, herbs and smoke. On ice, a line of gleaming fish waited for the grill. Point, choose and minutes later it’s seared to perfection and delivered to you. The snap of the crust and tender flesh made it impossible not to finish every bite.

The carnivore’s corner was even bigger with roast beef with herb crusts, slow-cooked lamb and beef Wellington wrapped in buttery pastry. At the live grill, skewers of chicken, lamb kefta, sirloin and tenderloin waited for their turn over the flames. Moments later, they returned to the table perfectly

charred, juicy and ready for a dip in chimichurri, chilli butter, garlic or smoky BBQ glaze. And because no roast is complete without sides, creamy penne gratin, roasted onions with bacon, baked potatoes and glazed vegetables made sure indulgence had no limits.

Even though brunch at The Square is all about exploring the buffet, the staff made sure we never actually had to ask for anything: drinks were topped up, plates cleared and somehow, our table was always ready for another round.

Flavours Of The East

Just when it felt like we’d explored every corner of the buffet, another world appeared. The atmosphere shifted as we entered The Asian Kitchen, a high-end spin on a bustling street market.

Bamboo steamers were stacked neatly beside sizzling woks, elegant fuchsia vases bloomed with painted flowers and rows of roasted ducks gleamed under warm lights.

On the counters, golden chicken and beef satay glistened in peanut marinades, next to crispy prawn and wontons, crunchy, salty and dangerously addictive with a dip of sweet chilli sauce. Large steaming pots held traditional favourites like Seafood Pad Cha, a Thai-style stir-fry brimming with herbs, basil, chilli and vegetables, fragrant enough to make us linger a little longer by the counter. We also went for something softer: the seafood egg drop soup. Simple, soothing and exactly the kind of warmth we needed at this point.

The real showstopper, though, was the live noodle station, a made-to-order experience that turned dining into pure play.

First, you choose your noodle base (rice, egg or vermicelli), then mix and match your favourites: chicken, shrimp, beef or vegetables. Next comes the flavour (Pad Thai, Mie Goreng or Singaporean), and the spice level, of course. A quick note on the order slip, a flash of wok fire from the chef and minutes later, steaming bowls of noodles landed on the table, fragrant and full of life.

For The Little Foodies

Coming back after yet another trip to the buffet (we’d lost count by then) we suddenly found ourselves face to face with a giant panda, waving, cracking jokes and stopping for photos. Within seconds, everyone was laughing, phones out, kids cheering. A small, unexpected moment that kept the atmosphere easy and fun.

And since brunch here is a family affair, The Square goes all in. Even the children get their own space at the Kids’ Corner, a colourful zone filled with games, cooking activities and a themed buffet made just for them. Between the gold domes, hanging lanterns and cartoon murals, it’s a full-on fantasy. Kids roll their own mini pizzas and pasta before dashing off to play, leaving their parents happily lingering over dessert and one last coffee. Now that’s a Friday done right! ✤

A TASTE OF CHINA

It’s my second time at Radisson Blu Doha, and even on my first visit I remember being curious about all the restaurants tucked inside, 14 in total, each with its own little world. I left knowing I’d have to come back to explore more. Tonight, it’s Ruby Wu’s turn, and I get why people talk about it. Long before the food arrives, it’s the room itself that wins me over. Because I don’t often walk into a hotel restaurant and feel like I’ve stepped onto a film set.

Inside Ruby Wu’s

Halfway up the staircase, a red sign and a carved stone horse mark the entrance. Inside, the room opens wide and warm. Red lanterns hang low from the ceiling, glowing softly against cream walls. Everywhere I look, there’s something to take in: a stream running through the space, crossed by wooden bridges; slate floors cool underfoot; the gleam of dark wood and lacquer catching the light. I move slowly, drawn by the stillness and colour. Each table looks ready for a scene: white plates, burgundy napkins, porcelain spoons... The palette holds steady: red, black, gold. Along the walls, silk scrolls bloom with peonies and bamboo, blue-and-white vases stand in the corners and bronze statues guard the stair railing.

Heat, Spice and Steam

Once seated, the atmosphere takes over: low light, a bit of chatter, servers gliding between tables. We start with a few appetisers and they set the tone right away. The Prawn Mayonnaise lands first: deep-fried, lacquered in pale-green wasabi mayo, each topped with a bright cluster of orange tobiko. The batter is whisper-thin, crisp enough to crack between our teeth before melting into the creamy heat of the sauce. The wasabi’s bite doesn’t shout: it hums, fades, leaves a trace of sweetness. The Wonton Soup follows, clear and fragrant, with delicate dumplings bobbing in the broth. Each one hides a filling of shrimp and chicken, its flavour slowly seeping out with every stir. The surface shimmers with a trace of sesame oil; below, slices of shiitake and black fungus drift like slow-moving ribbons, adding a soft, earthy depth.

Steam curls up as the Chicken Dumplings are served in their bamboo basket. We can tell they’re handmade: the folds neat, the dough thin, almost translucent. Inside, minced chicken thigh mixed with cabbage and carrot comes together into a juicy, comforting mouthful. There’s a rhythm to it: lift, dip, bite, repeat. Simple, steady, satisfying.

By now, the table’s already a small mosaic of dishes, when the Tiger Prawns in Garlic Sauce show up to claim their place. They’re arranged over glass noodles that glisten in garlic sauce, the scent alone enough to pull us forward. The prawns are split open and the meat firm yet tender. It’s a classic southern Chinese combination: soy, garlic and oil. Effortless in theory, impossible to get bored of. The real scene-stealer of the night? The Crispy Duck. Everyone instinctively leans toward it and we get why. The skin is perfectly rendered, bronze and shining, the meat still juicy underneath. It comes with thin pancakes, fresh cucumber and leeks, and a glossy plum sauce that smells faintly of citrus and spice. There’s something communal and tactile about it. The concept is playful: you build your own bite. A bit of duck, a smear of sauce, some crunch of vegetables, all wrapped in the warm pancake and eaten by hand.

To tie everything together, we try the Yang Zhou Fried Rice, the quintessential Chinese comfort dish. It’s golden and fragrant, the grains perfectly separate, dotted with shrimp, bits of chicken, egg and scallions. There’s a faint smokiness from the wok, that ‘wok hei’ aroma we only get from real heat and quick hands. It definitely could stand on its own but here it works like the anchor of the table: familiar, balanced, exactly what we want beside the stronger flavours.

Desserts Worth the Wait

Just when we think we can’t eat another bite, dessert proves us wrong. The Mango Pomelo Sago is the first to appear, bright as a sunrise. It’s a Cantonese classic, one of those chilled desserts we find in Hong Kong cafés, meant to end a meal on something light and fresh. The glass glows golden with a mix of mango purée and coconut milk, thick with tiny tapioca pearls that give it a gentle chew. Segments of pomelo sit on top, adding a pop of citrus that cuts through the sweetness, and a sprig of mint keeps it clean. To finish, we’re also lucky enough to try a new dessert, not yet on the menu at the time of our visit: the Banana Fritters. A small tower of crisp spring rolls stuffed with warm banana and Nutella sits at the centre of a black plate. Beside it, a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a little bowl of coconut sauce. The contrast does all the work: hot against cold, crunch against cream, chocolate meeting fruit. Indulgent, and exactly what you want with the last sip of tea. ✤

NOT YOUR AVERAGE BURGER STOP

Between gondolas and glossy storefronts, Sirine Boudjadi swaps shopping bags for comfort food at Burger Boutique and discovers how indulgence can feel refined.

Villaggio Mall is one of those places that never quite feels like Doha. With its painted bluesky ceiling and the canal where gondolas glide between shopfronts, it could be a scene borrowed from somewhere in Venice. I like going there, partly for the escape, partly because it has everything under one roof. And as always, after a while, shopping turns into hunger. That’s exactly what happened last weekend: somewhere between two boutiques, me and my friend decided to pause for a bite. We wanted something quick but still satisfying, so instead of the usual grab-and-go stop, we went for something that looked a little more elevated: Burger Boutique. The restaurant is part of Gastronomica, a Kuwait-born group founded by Basil Al Salem back in 2003, known for turning casual dining into what they call TDE, the Total Dining Experience, engaging all five senses. Abdullah greeted us at the entrance, all warmth and efficiency, and had us seated in no time. Everywhere I looked, something caught my eye, especially the ceiling, where hundreds of slim metal tubes hung at uneven lengths. Beneath it, black leather banquettes lined the walls, paired with terrazzo tables and greenery trailing from shelves and planters around the room. The palette ran on greys, charcoal and warm wood. Industrial, but softened just enough to feel comfortable. On one side, the open kitchen glowed behind blue tiles and shelves stacked with jars of pickled vegetables added a burst of colour to the otherwise moody tones. Razel, our server for the evening, came over with the menus. She

took her time, highlighting the house signatures and the bestsellers. Somehow, she made everything sound irresistible. We listened, nodded and, naturally, followed her lead.

Warming Up the Appetite

I’ll be honest, appetisers aren’t usually what I come for at a burger place. But skipping them wasn’t an option here! Our first pick was the Sticky Maple Buffalo Shrimp, glowing under an amber glaze like tiny lava rocks. The aroma hit straight away: sweet, smoky, a little wild. The batter cracked softly, a quick crunch that gave way to that sticky maple glaze, bold, bright and addictive. The ranch dip on the side cooled things down.

Next up, the Mushroom Poppers: small, golden, dangerously neat. The crust gave a faint snap, and then the inside flooded with molten cheese, a mix of American and pepper jack laced with roasted jalapeños and garlic. It started smoky, turned spicy, then the lemon aioli came in bright and sharp. A perfect loop of crunch, melt and zing.

And just when we thought appetisers couldn’t top that, the Commando Fries arrived, glorious chaos in a bowl. A heap of fries buried under molten cheddar, jalapeños, grilled onions and West Coast sauce, all finished with a shower of crispy onions. Every forkful shifted the balance: creamy one bite, tangy the next, crunchy all the way through. Somewhere between a side and a full-blown craving, and one that still makes my mouth water as I write these words.

The Main Event

We were both craving beef, and honestly, the choice wasn’t easy among the 10 different options. I picked The Stinger, all about heat and punch. The brioche bun was fluffy and golden, the beef patty perfectly seared and juicy with that edge of crisp from the grill. The mix of melted American cheese, jalapeños, and pickled onions hit every note, tangy and sharp, while the Gravity Sauce tied it all together. Opposite me sat the Solar Gravity, impossible to miss with its bright red beetroot bun. Inside, it was full-on decadence: a bacon-and-cheese-infused patty, onion strings adding crunch, and that same sauce dripping down the sides. The bun had a slight sweetness that played off the saltiness of the meat, giving the whole thing a kind of balance you don’t usually find in a burger this bold.

At some point, I asked the chef what exactly went into his secret Gravity Sauce, half out of curiosity, half out of desperation to recreate it later. He just smiled and said it was a mayo base with spices. Fair enough. Some things are better left untold. The menu also featured a few chicken burgers and the Mississippi was the one that stood out: a ground chicken patty tangled with mushrooms, a hint of chilli heat and just enough melted cheese to hold it all together. Simple, solid and more than satisfying.

Sweet Endings

After all that, there really wasn’t much room left for dessert, but Razel insisted, and Abdullah backed her up with the kind of smile that meant ‘you’ll regret it if you don’t’. So we gave in, and thank goodness we did. The Amazing Waffle truly lived up to its name. Three golden pieces, crisp on the edges and tender in the middle, layered with slices of banana, fresh berries and a generous pour of milk and white chocolate. A scoop of French vanilla ice cream

melted slowly over the top, turning everything into a warm-cold, soft-crunch contrast that just worked. Other temptations on the menu included a Lotus Waffle, an Hokkaido French Toast, and a Chocolate Brownie Pudding. All sounded like perfect excuses to come back, even just for a mid-afternoon treat.

If the goal was to satisfy all five senses, mission accomplished! We left fed, curious and thoroughly spoiled. ✤

MORNINGS IN SLOW MOTION

In search of a quiet start to the day, Sirine Boudjadi headed to Anis Café at Park Hyatt Doha and found what every morning should be: unhurried, generous and beautifully made.

Msheireb is where I come when I need a clean start to the day: good coffee, a sunny table, a pace that actually lets you think. It’s one of my favourite parts of Doha, and this time I’m here for breakfast at Anis Café, the Park Hyatt Doha's ground-floor restaurant.

From the street, you notice it before you even step in: deepgreen awnings stamped Park Hyatt Doha, scalloped umbrellas to match and a neat line of sage-painted planters along the pavement. The terrace is built for lingering: low cream sofas with moss-green cushions, white frames, polished tables that catch the light. A couple of bistro chairs carry subtle green pinstripes; someone scrolls through emails, another settles into a call. In the corner, the plaza’s ground jets tick on and off, just enough sound to soften the street. At the door, Napoleon, the waiter, greets me with a grin and an easy ‘good morning’. His warmth and generosity will end up shaping much of what makes my experience so pleasant.

Inside, the room goes tall and calm. Floor-to-ceiling glass, black ceiling fans turning slowly, and a row of dark timber fins that filter the light into clean bands. The tiles underfoot form a patchwork of olive, beige and white. Big tropical plants anchor the corners. Along the back wall, warm shelves glow with golden tea canisters and a few framed prints, while the pale lime wallpaper keeps the geometry crisp.

It’s an easy place to park a laptop for hours, but today I’m here to eat. Breakfast first, work later!

Mornings, Four Ways

Anis Café keeps things simple but well thought-out, with four set menus that each feel like a different kind of morning. There’s the Continental, all gentle edges and comfort: eggs your way, sliced fruit, sourdough, butter and a glossy chocolate brioche that could pass for dessert. The Parisian leans sweeter: croissant, pain au chocolat, jams, berries and an acai–quinoa granola layered with coconut yogurt. Then there’s the ones that caught our eye: the Levantine, full of local warmth, and the Green Nature, made for anyone who likes their breakfast light but not boring. We order both, which turns out to be the perfect contrast.

The Levantine arrives on a wooden tray, every bowl in its place: creamy labneh with a swirl of olive oil and a dusting of sumac, smooth hummus, ful medames, warm and gently spiced, and a small salad of cucumber, arugula and cherry tomatoes. Next to it, golden pitas folded neatly beside a separate bowl of za’atar and olive oil. The fried eggs are just right: crisp-edged, sunny, sprinkled with za’atar, and a few slices of grilled halloumi bring the salt. It’s generous, balanced, and feels like something you’d happily linger over with mint tea.

The Green Nature, meanwhile, looks straight out of a wellness café but tastes far better than that makes it sound. Two slices of seeded sourdough come piled with avocado and poached eggs that break perfectly. On the side, a small blueberry-chia pudding layered with banana, and strawberries — light and fruity. A tiny raw chocolate madeleine sits next to it, gluten-free, soft and deeply flavourful.

Each option also comes with a drink of our choice, and I love that the selection doesn’t just stop at coffee. There’s a whole lineup of smoothies that actually sound tempting. We end up picking two that couldn’t be more different. Mine, the Avocado Galore, turns out to be closer to a dessert than a drink. It’s rich and velvety, the sweetness of dates blending into the almond milk, with a drizzle of honey that ties it all together. Across the table, Popeye’s Punch looks fresher, greener, the kind of thing that makes you feel virtuous just holding it. Apple and lemon lift the spinach, yogurt gives it body, and it’s gone in a few easy sips. Both work, just in different moods: one indulgent, one clean, like two versions of how the morning could go.

Build It Yourself

If you’d rather skip the set menus, there’s another way to do breakfast here. Order à la carte, let the plates arrive one by one, and soon the table looks like a tasting spread. First up, the Salmon Rolls: ribbons of smoked fish curled over toasted sourdough, lined with cool cucumber and a dollop of dill cream. Capers pop here and there, a squeeze of lemon does the rest. Warm pastry takes over next. The Cherry-Tomato and Feta Cheese Danish

looks simple, but the craft shows as soon as the knife goes in: the laminated layers shatter into thin, buttery flakes; the centre stays tender. Tomatoes are slightly caramelised, feta melts into them and picks up the herbs on top. You get crunch, cream and that hint of depth that keeps you going back for more.

And yes, a sweet Viennoiserie is non-negotiable. As addicted as I am to chocolate, of course my choice goes to the Pain au Chocolat, though this one’s not the usual kind. It comes dark and glossy, with fine ridges running across the top like a chocolate sculpture. When you cut through, the crust gives way with a clean crack, the inside soft and cocoa-brown, still warm. The filling sits thick in the centre, halfway between ganache and melted chocolate. It’s buttery, indulgent and exactly what a slow morning should taste like.

Put together like this, breakfast at Anis Café feels like the start of a habit, and I’m not sure I want to break it! ✤

FLAVOURS OF JAKARTA

Indonesia’s bustling capital city is famed for its history, culture and diverse ethnic mix and all of these come together to create a foodie scene that’s second to none, making it the halal capital of flavour.

The first thing you notice about Jakarta isn’t the skyline, it’s the food. Coconut rice steams in banana leaves, satay sizzles over charcoal and long tables spill into the night as families gather into the early hours. Wander a little further and chandeliers glow over plates where tradition is shaped into art. For Muslim travellers, there is comfort in knowing that almost every taste is halal, whether found on sidewalks or behind velvet curtains.

A Coffee Story

Like any good story, it often begins with coffee. Jakarta’s coffee culture is as layered as its food. In Glodok’s Chinatown, Kopi Es Tak Kie has poured its no-frills brew since 1927. Some come for the sweet iced coffee mixed with condensed milk, but the regulars swear by its black coffee, strong and slightly bitter, the kind that lingers long after the glass is empty. The tiled floor and wooden chairs feel unchanged, and every sip carries the weight of old Jakarta.

Across town in Cepete, South Jakarta, Tuku Coffee sparked the city’s modern caffeine wave. Its iced latte with palm sugar became a neighbourhood hit that grew into a national trend, a drink that balances the roast’s depth with a subtle sweetness. From heritage brews to contemporary blends, coffee here is never just about caffeine, it is a window to the city’s changing tastes.

Legends of the Streets

Every city has dishes that become part of its daily rhythm and, in Jakarta, the streets tell that story best. On the crowded lanes of Pasar Baru, in Central Jakarta, Bakmi Gang Kelinci has served its springy chicken noodles since 1957. The soy-rich aroma fills a dining room that feels frozen in time and, for many Jakartans, it is the taste of homecoming.

A short ride away in Tanah Abang, the air is thick with the coconut fragrance of Nasi Uduk Kebon Kacang. Plates of rice cooked in santan arrive with crispy fried chicken and fiery sambal, best enjoyed shoulder-to-shoulder with locals in the late-night rush. Both spots prove that some of the city’s greatest meals are still found where the streets hum the loudest.

Refined Tables

Jakarta’s dining scene does not just preserve tradition, it reinvents it. Across the city, restaurants are shaping heritage dishes into

experiences that feel fresh without losing their roots. In Senopati, South Jakarta, Daun Muda Soulfood retells Indonesia’s culinary stories with spice and fire. Dishes like Manado’s rica-rica or Palembang’s rusip come plated with a contemporary touch, but the soul remains deeply rooted in the archipelago. For something more elevated, 1945 Restaurant, at the Fairmont Senayan, reimagines rendang and satay as fine dining artistry. As Jakarta’s first halal-certified luxury restaurant, it proves that heritage and refinement can sit comfortably at the same table.

A Culture of Welcome

Jakarta’s halal dining culture is more than convenience. It is culture made accessible. From the chatter of Chinatown cafés to the hush of silver-service eateries, every sip and every dish offers not only sustenance but also a story, waiting to be tasted. The more dishes you share, the more memories you create. Every flavour is an invitation to the city’s soul. The more meals you gather around, the more connections you make. Every plate brings you closer to the spirit of Jakarta. ✤

ON THE ROAD

With the weather cooling and the kids back at school, the highways are quiet and it’s time to take a look at some iconic road trips. From Ireland to Italy and more, we’ve come up with some journeys you won’t want to miss.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

One of Europe’s most scenic routes, the challenging drive along the narrow SS163 takes in the famed lemon-scented tourist hotspots of Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi.

At just over 60km, this is not a long route but there are plenty of places you’ll want to linger. You’ll probably start your journey in Naples, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and a bit of a love-hate destination. Some say it’s dirty and crime-ridden; others (us included) find it gorgeously authentic and exciting. Take some time out of your itinerary to visit the National Archaeological Museum – it’s both beautiful and fascinating.

A day trip to Pompeii is a must to explore the storied ruins of the ancient Roman city, destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD.

Park up in Bomerano and hike the Path of the Gods to take in magnificent coastal views before heading down 1,700 steps to Positano where you’ll find colourful cascading buildings, posh galleries and high-end boutiques.

The beautiful mountain town of Ravello is also worth a slight detour from the coast road – it’s 365 metres above the sea – and is home to gorgeous cliffside gardens, the Moorish-style Villa Rufolo and the famous Ravello Festival, which features sunrise and sunset concerts as well as exclusive performances.

Top Tip: Avoid the summer months – from June to September – you really don’t want to be on these roads during that period!

Great Ocean Road, Australia

If you’re venturing down under, make that long plane journey worthwhile by taking in one of the world’s top 10 road trips. The Great Ocean Road – the name pretty much says it all – takes in some of Australia’s most gorgeous and rugged coastline and, in a country famed for its beaches and beauty, that’s saying something.

It’s a good idea to travel from west to east, starting in Warrnambool, to avoid the traffic going the other way. And, if you’re planning any overnight stop offs, other than camping (hint, you really should, there are some seriously cute properties to check out), then you’ll need to book around six months in advance.

From Warrnambool – where you should visit Cheese World – to Cape Otway, you’ll be heading along the Shipwreck Coast, known thus, unsurprisingly, for the many ships that have wrecked along the route. It’s the place to see awe inspiring rock formations, such as The 12 Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park, (spoiler alert, there are not 12 of them). The Bay of Islands, along this 32km stretch, is home to a colony of rare black-faced cormorants, and there’s the chance to dive the wreck of the Falls of Halladale, which sank in 1908. At Cape Otway, sleep under the stars in the Great Otway National Park and cross your fingers for the chance to spot wild koalas!

Then head back towards Melbourne along the Surf Coast, which is dotted with the kind of gorgeous, long stretches of shoreline, such as Bells Beach, that you see on TV.

Top Tip: Google ‘koala sounds’ on YouTube to make spotting them easier – it’s hilarious!

Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Aside from the iconic Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway is possibly the world’s most famous road route. Running from Washington State in the north, through Oregon and down to the tip of California. And it’s the Golden State’s 1,056km Highway 1 that’s the most popular stretch, famous for its dramatic ocean views, cliffs and winding roads featuring landmarks like the Big Sur coastline.

In Northern California, you’ll pass through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic 51.5km route famous for the towering coastal redwoods that line the route.

Driving through California, there are several ‘mustsee’ destinations, including San Francisco, home of the Golden Gate Bridge, which you can see on a bicycle tour, and the former prison island Alcatraz, where you can take a fascinating inside and outside tour. In Los Angeles, head to Hollywood for a studio tour, visit the Sunset Strip for early ‘80s rock memories and take a trip to Venice Beach, just because.

End your road trip in San Diego, where you can take a break on one of the numerous gorgeous beaches, visit galleries, studios and museums and check out the USS Midway, an aircraft-carrier-turned-museum.

Top Tip: Drive from north to south, so you’ll always have those glorious ocean views on your side of the road.

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

At 2,600km, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world’s longest defined coastal routes, running from the Inishowen Peninsula in Co. Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. The wild terrain boasts towering cliffs and spellbinding bays, beaches and mystical islands, where old traditions and the Irish language are preserved.

This is the original slow tour, where you’ll want to take your time and soak in the scenery and history. The Inishowen Peninsula runs a circular route taking in awe-inspiring scenery including the Gap of Mamore, where the road winds steeply up a 240-metre-high pass, offering a panoramic view of the entire northern coastline. Be warned, though, the 30-degree descent is positively alpine.

Further south, around the county town of Sligo, make sure to take in Mullaghmore, a dramatic headland falling to a gorgeous sandy beach with Benbulben mountain as its backdrop. And, if you’re that way inclined, Sligo has some great nightlife and restaurants.

Further south again, on the edge of The Burren, in County Clare, don’t miss the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s favourite visitor experiences. You can walk the safe, paved pathways and view the famous cliffs on Europe’s western frontier and enjoy the spectacular vistas over the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands.

The Dingle Peninsula, dubbed ‘The most beautiful place on Earth’ by National Geographic is rich in culture, history and nature, including abundant marine life like dolphins (it was home to the famed Fungie), whales and puffins, and land animals such as red deer, foxes, hares and stoats. There are sanctuaries to visit and whale and dolphin watching tours aplenty. Here’s where you’re most likely to hear Gaelic spoken and there’s always music to be found.

Head to the Ring of Kerry for Ireland’s tallest mountains, great surf and both river and coastal fishing, then follow the coast down to Cork, Ireland’s sixth century, second largest city. Here you’ll find loads to do from visiting the English Market, a must for foodies, to a trip to nearby Blarney Castle. Top Tip: Make sure you kiss the Blarney Stone to come away with the gift of the gab! ✤

FOR HER

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

FOREST ESSENTIALS

Varuna Exceptional Night Serum and Samsara Miraculous Glow Booster

The Varuna serum improves firmness and elasticity with a Fermented Vyasthapana Firming Complex, a potent blend of 10 fermented anti-ageing herbs. These are blended with nano actives including 7D hyaluronic acid, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, niacinamide and concentrated vitamin C to be absorbed by the skin, leaving it firm, nourished and rejuvenated.

The groundbreaking booster provides a lifting effect with Fermented Twachya Complex, a blend of 10 ayurvedic herbs and baobab fruit extract. It utilises Nano Shat Dhaut Ghrit, a Vedic formula where ghee is washed 100 times. This miraculous formulation with Nano Conjugation technology plumps and nourishes the skin, expanding nano molecules for radiant, youthful and glowing skin.

BYREDO

Bibliophilia

Inspired by the expansive experience of the library, the new Bibliophilia, 18-colour eyeshadow Palette from Byredo reads like a story. The palette progresses from quiet, structural hues to shades that shimmer, assert and seduce, from yellow parchment to warm taupe, tobacco and aged mahogany. Accents of burgundy, ancient reds and bold luminous pinks bring a striking energy. Rich textures glide smoothly onto the skin, available in three luxurious finishes: creamy metallic, luminous satin and velvety matte and each shade blends and intensifies easily, whether using a brush or fingertips.

DR. BARBARA STURM

Ceramide Drops Face Oil

A fast-absorbing anti-ageing oil enriched with a 5-Ceramide Complex naturally found in oat oil and enhanced with a potent blend of ingredients designed to strengthen the skin barrier from the get-go. This restorative formula features a scientifically backed mix of nourishing oils – including Argan, evening primrose, sweet almond, macadamia, grape seed and jojoba – which work together to reinforce the skin’s lipid barrier. Meanwhile, Astaxanthin helps calm irritation and improve the skin’s overall appearance, and Phytosqualane reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

BUXOM

Full-On Lipstick

All-in-one lip colour that hydrates, smooths and contours with fully loaded colour in a satin finish. Instantly visibly smoothing and available in 10 intensely pigmented shades, this lip colour contains a combination of biomimetic peptides and hyaluronic acid to instantly hydrate and stimulate collagen. It is clinically shown to moisturise lips, making them smoother, firmer and better defined. The weightless, non-drying, bleed- and feather-resistant formula leaves your lips moisturised and kissably soft.

ASTERI

Xpert Makeup Brushes

A professional brush collection designed to transform artistry with style, innovation and flawless performance blending ergonomic design, advanced functionality and striking aesthetics. Each brush features a two-part handle for maximum comfort and control, while the standout green-to-blue chromatic finish ensures they shine as beautifully on the vanity as they do in hand.

What sets the collection apart is its unique magnetic technology – the brushes connect seamlessly to one another and can stand upright on metal surfaces, delivering a clutter-free, organised makeup station. The brush fibres are made from premium synthetic squirrel hair and the collection includes five brushes for tasks from blush application to smudging.

FOR HIM

DERMALOGICA

Neurotouch Symmetry Serum

Recommended for all skin types. Powered by neuroscience and propelled by human touch, this lightweight, nourishing facial oil leverages active ingredients — adaptogenic botanicals, a biomimetic hexapeptide and CoQ10 — to help visibly restore facial symmetry for a more sculpted appearance. Bioengineered Bacillus Ferment visibly sculpts and lifts. Winged kelp helps firm skin’s appearance and rosewood extract targets the jawline to visibly sculpt natural facial contours. Squalane and bionutrient oils strengthen skin’s moisture barrier, while an aromachology blend uplifts mood.

CALDERA LAB

The Great

An anti-ageing lightweight serum that’s ideal for normal to oily skin and warmer climates. This promises a breakthrough in anti-ageing that features the brand’s patent-pending exosome technology and collagen amino acids designed for accelerated skin renewal and to rapidly reduce visible signs of ageing. It is clinically proven to visibly reduce lines and wrinkles, even skin tone, lift and firm.

THE GREY

Vitamin C Serum

Potent and yet skin-friendly, this serum is formulated with four forms of vitamin C, Bakuchiol and Tocopherol, for deeper skin penetration and sustained release. The advanced combination will help reduce uneven pigmentation, improve tone and provide anti-oxidative protection from free radicals and environmental stressors delivering visible results and leaving your skin with a radiant glow.

BRICKELL

Styling Hair Powder

A lightweight hair styling powder for men that enhances texture, volume and hold with a natural matte finish. Suitable for all hair types, it adds volume and texture, giving a natural, fuller look.

The powder strengthens roots with the nourishing power of rice bran oil and rosehip and is perfect for men with straight or thinning hair. Offers medium hold that keeps your style in place all day.

GEO. F. TRUMPER

Herbal Bath Soap

This herbal soap is a 150g tablet of pure luxury with a botanical herbal fragrance and a light exfoliating wheat bran. It’s crafted to nourish your skin, leaving it soft and supple, while the herbal fragrance creates a warm, lasting aroma.

Handy Tip – after using your bath soap, run the tablet under cold water. This helps prevent the soap from softening and will make it last longer.

MEETS HIGH STYLING

Raincoats boast signature silhouettes in shredded viscose blends, corduroy and cropped embossed leathers while the new Ellingham car coat comes with added volume. Quilted jackets appear in geranium print and scarves with chunky fringes are integrated into jackets in shearling and alpaca blends.

Robes and jackets are reworked as softly tailored coats in cashmere and mohair wool, with chunky knit shawl collars. Silk pyjama shirts and trousers are layered underneath and velvet brocades, evoking the designs of William Morris, are cut into equestrian-inspired coats and suits.

Cross-stitched knitwear references historic tapestries and a rich palette of tapestry brown, deer taupe, punky red and yellow, alder and maze green anchors the collection. Tartan-inspired wool checks sit alongside the Burberry Check in intarsia leather.

Savile Row tailoring meets country dressing as wool and corduroy suits are paired with jodhpur trousers and pleated check kilts, while brushed wool appears in rollnecks, ribbed sweaters and joggers.

Artisanal craft brings a sense of revelry and romanticism to evening wear, with velvet damask dresses and gathered silhouettes and peacock prints are hand-cut to create a feathered effect. In shoes, shapes synonymous with the countryside come in

weaves and embossed leathers, modelled on richly furnished interiors. Cavalier and Ledger boots are cut in embossed and intarsia leather, while court-inspired pumps taper to pointed toes. Cameo slippers come in quilted velvet.

The new Bridle bag fuses saddle shapes with a curved top handle and reins-inspired hardware, while Highlands bags are weathered in intarsia check leather.

For the new-season campaign, Chief Creative Officer Daniel Lee took inspiration from the fabrics and grand interiors that inspired the Burberry Winter 2025 show. He says: “We wanted to bring the collection to life and to tell the story behind all those incredible textiles.”

Shot in the drawing rooms and grounds of Thomas Ripley’s Palladian masterpiece, Wolterton Hall, the campaign brings together a cast of talents including British actor Rupert Everett, model and artist Jeny Howorth and Luther Ford, known for his portrayal of Prince Harry in The Crown. They appear alongside models Lina Zhang, Assa Baradji, Tristan Watkins, Leon Keenan and Iris Lasnet, who made her runway debut in Burberry’s Winter 2025 show. ✤

GO: VISIT ROW.BURBERRY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Director: Jared Bush, Byron Howard Cast: Jason Bateman, Shakira, Ginnifer Goodwin

In this highly anticipated sequel, officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde return to the vibrant metropolis of Zootopia. When a mysterious reptile disrupts the city’s delicate balance, the unlikely duo must go undercover across its diverse districts to expose the truth. Blending comedy, adventure and social reflection, Zootropolis 2 once again showcases Disney’s signature mix of heart and humour.

Director: Vince Gilligan

Cast: Rhea Seehorn, Karolina Wydra, Carlos Manuel Vesga

In this bold new sci-fi drama from Vince Gilligan (creator of Breaking Bad), an emotionally drained romance novelist, Carol Sturka, emerges as the lone person unaffected by a mysterious virus that renders the world unnervingly cheerful. Tasked with saving humanity from its own forced happiness, she finds herself entangled in a web of power, manipulation and dark illusions. Set in an alternate America, Pluribus blends Gilligan’s signature character depth with eerie speculation and subtle menace, inviting viewers to question whether happiness can ever be too much of a good thing.

Director: Ruben Fleischer

Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, Morgan Freeman, Daniel Radcliffe

In this new chapter, the legendary illusionist team known as the Four Horsemen returns, joined by a new generation of sleight-of-hand prodigies. After a falling-out leaves the original quartet scattered, Danny Atlas recruits three young magicians to help him steal the world’s largest ‘queen’ diamond from the criminal empire of Veronika Vanderberg. As the stage tricks turn deadly, the old guard must outsmart a global syndicate, shut down a moneylaundering ring and keep the magic alive.

Director: Ben Leonberg

Cast: Indy, Shane Jensen, Arielle Friedman

In this unnerving horror-thriller told entirely from a dog’s perspective, a man named Todd retreats to a remote house with his loyal retriever, Indy, hoping to recover from a chronic lung illness. But their new beginning soon darkens as Indy senses a malignant presence that his owner cannot. As strange forces close in, instinct turns to terror, and man’s best friend becomes the only barrier between safety and something unspeakable.

Prime Video NICETONOTMEETYOU

Director: Kim Ga-ram

Cast: NLee Jung-jae, Lim Ji-yeon, Kim Ji-hoon, Seo Ji-hye, Oh Yeon-seo, Choi Gwi-hwa…

K-drama fans, take note: Prime Video’s Nice to Not Meet You offers a witty, behind-thescenes peek into Korea’s entertainment world. Emmy winner Lee Jung-jae (Squid Game) stars as a typecast actor craving reinvention, while Lim Ji-yeon plays a sharp political journalist abruptly reassigned to celebrity news. Their clashing worlds spark unexpected chemistry, balancing laughter, heart and a fresh look at fame and connection in modern Seoul.

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

LUX

By Rosalía

The Spanish star returns this November with her fourth studio album, Lux, recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and executive-produced by herself. The ambitious project is divided into four movements and features collaborations with Björk, Yves Tumor, Carminho, Estrella Morente and others, and also includes lyrics in 13 languages. With a blend of orchestral scale and personal transformation, Rosalía signals a bold new creative era.

FINALLYOVERIT

By Summer Walker

With her third studio album Finally Over It, Summer Walker completes the Over It trilogy she began in 2019. Releasing November 14, the project marks a shift toward self-assurance and independence. The rollout confirmed a feature from Latto and promises contributions from top women in rap. Lead single Heart of a Woman sets the tone: raw, unapologetic, ready to close one chapter and start another.

ANTHOLOGY4

By The Beatles

The Beatles’ legacy expands this autumn with Anthology 4, the long-rumoured continuation of their historic compilation series. Curated by Giles Martin and Apple Corps, the new volume gathers 13 previously unreleased demos and session recordings from 1963 to 1969, alongside new mixes of Free As a Bird and Real Love. More than a reissue, it offers a sharp insight into the band’s studio archives and continues to deepen their legacy decades on.

FULLY BOOKED

SCIENCE FICTION / DYSTOPIA

Coldwire (The StrangeLoom Trilogy)

By Chloe Gong

Out November 11, Coldwire (The StrangeLoom Trilogy) opens a daring new trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Chloe Gong. As climate collapse and disease push society into virtual refuge ‘upcountry’, those left behind in the decaying ‘downcountry’ struggle to survive. Among them, two young soldiers (Eirale, a disgraced recruit, and Lia, a top cadet) find their fates intertwined across digital and physical worlds. With political intrigue, rebellion and identity at its core, Gong delivers her most ambitious world yet.

MEMOIR / LITERARY NON-FICTION

Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts

By Margaret Atwood

Out November 4, Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts marks the long-awaited memoir of the author of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Testaments. Raised among the forests of northern Quebec by scientific parents, Margaret Atwood recounts an unconventional childhood that shaped her fierce curiosity and moral lens. Moving through bohemian circles, political upheavals and her life with the late Graeme Gibson, long-time partner in both love and art, she traces the moments that forged her voice. Reflective, witty and unsparing, Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts reveals the split self behind the storyteller.

What We’re (Still) Talking About

What’s In A Name?

We’ve all witnessed the celebrity craze for somewhat odd baby names, from Elon Musk’s unfortunate offspring, X Æ A-Xii, Exa Dark Sideræl, Techno Mechanicus, Strider Sekhar Sirius and Azure Astra Alice (relatively ‘normal’ compared to the others) to actor Jason Lee’s son, Pilot Inspektor and magician Penn Jillette’s daughter, Moxie CrimeFighter.

Even everyday people have started getting in on the act – we personally know of a Toffee (she’s s sweet kid)

and Myfanwy (OK, that one’s traditional Welsh but can you imagine the teasing?).

In a bid to weed out the trend, the Hungarian Government has come up with a list of ‘approved’ baby names – a 36-page document that features 2,691 options for girls and 2,012 for boys. However, the choices have come in for some flack since, despite the reasoning that names reflect national cultural identity, the list still includes the likes of Legolas – an elf from The Lord of the Rings!

Only In California

Meanwhile in San Francisco, Taylor A Humphrey charges up to USD30,000 for her services as a professional baby naming consultant!

Apparently, the VIP package can include options such as a baby-name branding campaign (we had to look it up, it means creating a cohesive identity profile for the family to stick to), a genealogical deep dive to seek out historic family monikers and even think tank-style meetings to come up with options.

It’s reported that, with the all-

encompassing rise of the Internet, the decision on what to call your newborn has become a fraught subject – just ask TikTok ‘influencers’ Cory and Lea who’ve been widely ridiculed for naming their newborn son Adventure.

Thirty years ago, parents just picked a name they liked and that was that but now everyone wants something that’s ‘different’ and ‘trendy’. Seemingly without thought for the poor kid, named Onion or whatever, who’ll be hiding in the school playground. Ms Humphrey might just be on to something.

Fat Fantastic

We’ve previously reported on Fat Bear Week, the annual event held in autumn by the Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska in which netizens are invited to vote for the bear who’s most successfully piled on the pounds prior to their long winter hibernation.

It’s about promoting bear conservation, cultivating an interest in wildlife and encouraging positive human-nature interactions. And frankly, once you start looking at the social media posts, it’s strangely

addictive – this year’s competition attracted 1.5 million votes.

In case you’re interested a male bear called Chunk was the 2025 winner, with a massive 96,362 votes!

And, not to be outdone, Texas has now got in on the act but, somewhat lacking in bears, Texas Parks and Wildlife came up with Fat Squirrel Week, which was won by Chunkosaurus Rex, who faced off in the final against fellow chubster Chunk Norris.

It seems fat is officially fabulous. Someone pass the cake.

Prepare for an immersive journey at The Stage Doha, featuring the astonishing collaboration of Pianist Antoine and Illusionist Pascal. Antoine lays down a dramatic, soulful soundtrack that seamlessly blends with Pascal's stunning deceptions. An unforgettable experience where music meets magic, ensuring an evening of pure glamour and awe.

Tuesday to Sunday 18:00 to 02:00 | Live entertainment starts 21:00 to 00:00 For reservations and inquiries, kindly contact us at +974 4035 5555 or visit Kempinski.com/Marsamalaz