In two months' time, the world's biggest football tournament will come to the Middle East for the first time.
The Fifa World Cup in Qatar begins on November 20 and fans will fly in from around the world to catch the on-pitch action.
From the Middle East alone, flight bookings to Doha have jumped more than 4,000 per cent this year. And with many national teams taking over entire properties for the tournament’s duration, it's no surprise that accommodation options in the Gulf country are running out fast.
Travellers who have yet to book a place to stay will be glad to hear that several new hotels are scheduled to open before the tournament kicks off.
From a stay in a luxury tented villa in the desert to a suite in a Waldorf Astoria or an all-inclusive escape in Doha's action-packed Qetaifan Island, these 11 hotels are all opening before the games begin.
Hotels in Qatar opening in October
1. The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar
For island views and a touch of luxury in Qatar, this soon-to-open St Regis hotel is one to consider. Spanning an entire island, The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar will open to guests on October 1. Travellers booking a room here can expect the high level of service that St Regis is known for, which includes the brand's signature butler service.
The sprawling hotel has 193 rooms and suites, all with sea-facing balconies and the resort has a unique architecture inspired by Andalusian and Arabesque designs. Designed as a luxury retreat that's ideal for those seeking a sophisticated stay in Qatar, the hotel's 10 culinary spaces will include Turkish contemporary restaurant Nar, Italian fine-dining at Roberto’s and Japanese-Peruvian fusion at Chotto Matte. There's also several outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness suite and home to the region's first Clinique La Prairie Medical Spa.
The St Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar, near West Bay; www.marriott.com
2. Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
The Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha will be the first of two new hotels welcoming guests in Qatar ahead of the Fifa World Cup. Located on a private stretch of coastline in what was previously the site of Qatar’s first five-star hotel, it will also be the country's first luxury beach resort offering an all-inclusive concept. Ideal for families, it offers plenty of entertainment, sports, kids activities and spa experiences. Rooms come with views over the Doha skyline or surrounding ocean and there’s seven restaurants and bars to choose from, including the rustic Farmhouse and Mr Tailor Steakhouse. The Rixy Kids Club makes sure little ones are entertained throughout the duration of their stay, leaving adults with plenty of time to relax and unwind.
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, Street 920, Ras Abu Abboud Street, Doha; www.rixos.com
3. Bin Al Sheikh Residences by Rotana
For travellers seeking a home from home in Qatar during the world cup, the Bin Al Sheikh Residences by Rotana in the West Bay area of the city could be a good fit. Opening in October, the residences consist of 158 studios, 278 one-bedroom apartments and 62 two-bedroom apartments. Its five three-bedroom penthouses that are great for families, and come with amazing views of the city skyline. Fully equipped with self-catering facilities, guests checking in can enjoy a spacious outdoor swimming pool, fitness suite and a kids play area. International retail options, a cinema and an ice-rink are also available, all within walking distance.
Bin Al Sheikh Residences by Rotana, Salwa Road; www.rotana.com
Hotels in Qatar opening in November
4. Andaz Doha
The first Andaz hotel in Qatar will also be ready to welcome football fans flying in for the world cup. Located in the West Bay area of Doha, Andaz Doha will be the fourth Hyatt-branded hotel in the country when it opens its doors this November. Situated in proximity to many of Doha’s big shopping malls, financial institutions and embassies, the hotel has 256 rooms, including 32 suites and four so-called royal suites. There are also 56 residences designed for guests looking to stay a little bit longer.
Many of the rooms come with sea views and each is designed in Andaz’s signature style, meaning there’s plenty of culture, colour and local influences to be found, with a focus on the country's lesser-known gems. Four dining outlets will give guests plenty of options including Mr and Mrs Hawker — which brings the flavours of Singaporean hawkers to Qatar. The hotel will also be home to the city’s only enclosed outdoor terrace with city and sea views. A sizeable swimming pool, 24-hour fully equipped fitness studio and a spa featuring eastern hammam treatments make Andaz Doha ideal for a getaway.
Andaz Doha, Diplomatic Street, Doha; www.hyatt.com
5. The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
Located in Doha’s Katara Cultural Village, Qatar’s go-to destination for art, culture and cuisine, The Chedi Katara will open in November in time to host football fans visiting for the world cup. With 59 rooms and 32 villas, it's designed to be a landmark of Mughal architecture in the Qatari capital and has been inspired by the grand historic palaces found throughout India. With a private beach on one side and a canal on the other, the hotel encompasses Chedi’s signature values of offering peace and tranquillity and all rooms enjoy soothing views of the surrounding waters.
Its five restaurants and bars on-site include the all-day eatery The Restaurant, The Beach Club and Marsa Katara, which sits on its own site on a pier and is reachable via a jetty ride across the water. Guests staying here will have easy access to the theatres, concert halls, exhibition galleries, mosques, restaurants and parks in the village.
The Chedi Katara, Shakespeare Street, Katara Cultural Village, Doha; www.ghmhotels.com
6. Riviera Rayhaan by Rotana
Rotana's second new hotel opening in Qatar is the Riviera Rayhaan. Located on Salwa Road in the heart of Doha, the four-star hotel will add 185 contemporary rooms and suites to the country's accommodation options in November.
With 129 standard rooms and 56 suites comprising Junior, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites, the hotel brings Rotana's alcohol-free concept to Qatar. A host of dining options include a lobby cafe, an all-day dining restaurant, a cigar and a speciality restaurant. There is also a fully equipped gymnasium, a swimming pool and a spa offering a variety of treatments.
Riviera Rayhaan by Rotana, Salwa Road, Doha; www.rotana.com
7. Rixos Qetaifan Island North Doha
Rixos’ second new hotel opening in time for the world cup is located on Qetaifan Island, a place that's building a reputation as Qatar's adventure destination. The Rixos Qetaifan Island North Doha will offer plenty for visitors of all ages, with everything from the fully-supervised Rixy Kids Club for little ones to an exclusive sports club where guests will have access to expert trainers and state-of-the art facilities for CrossFit, TRX, spinning classes and more.
The NatureLife spa offers a soothing place to retreat with a wide range of treatments on offer, including a traditional Turkish hammam. Meryal water park, the country's largest water park, is opening on site later this year. The Qatari-themed adventure water park is home to a thrilling 85-metre-high Icon Tower waterside, touted to be the largest in the world. The island is also where football fans can find the purpose-built Qetai-Fan Beach Fest. Open every day throughout the entirety of the tournament, it will have football-themed activities, food and beverage options, entertainment, live music and more.
Rixos Qetaifan Island North Doha, Qetaifan Island North, Doha; www.rixos.com
8. Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Doha
Hilton is opening the Waldorf Astoria Lusail hotel in Doha on November 1. The five-star property is set on its own private beach with views of the Arabian Gulf and offers 429 villas, rooms and suites designed to help travellers unwind. The luxury hotel has resort-style amenities including both a mammoth family-friendly pool and a separate adults-only pool. There’s also an on-site water park for children to enjoy, and a kids and teenagers club.
A full-service Espa Life spa is geared towards adults seeking relaxation and there’s also plenty of space for private events, including an 800-square metre grand ballroom. Restaurants include the sleek Bywater brasserie, inspired by the historical French Quarter in New Orleans; Wyld Erth, which will serve wholesome organic dishes and Doha’s first SushiSamba, which will also be home to the eatery’s first ever beach club.
Waldorf Astoria Lusail, Alar Project, Street 350 Lusail, Doha; www.hilton.com
9. The Outpost Al Barari
Escape to a nature-surrounded stay at The Outpost Al Barari, where travellers can check in to luxury tented-style accommodation in the heart of the Qatari desert. The high-end resort has 21 suites, most of which come with a private pool. For larger families, the Emiri villa is ideal with its three bedrooms, living area, private pool and large outdoor terrace.
Guests staying at this eco-focused escape will be able to take part in plenty of activities including desert excursions, nature walks, sea safaris and stargazing sessions. Yoga on the desert dunes, outdoor cinema experiences and sunrise camel walks are also on the agenda. Al Barari Restaurant is the resort’s all-day eatery and will offer a menu spanning cuisines from across the Mediterranean, Middle East and India, with meals served alongside endless desert views. While the resort doesn’t open until November, bookings open on October 1 for those who want to secure their visit.
The Outpost Al Barari, Al Meera, Sealine Beach; https://theoutpostalbarari.com
10. Element West Bay Doha
Doha’s business district will welcome a new hotel in November this year when Element West Bay Doha by Marriott launches in the city. Taking wellness seriously, the Westin-owned hotel has several initiatives designed to ensure guests checking in can find a sense of balance between business and leisure. The hotel is ideal for those seeking a longer stay, and has a smart design that ensures efficient use of space both in the rooms and public areas, and a strong focus on sustainability. All guests enjoy a nutritious complimentary breakfast to ensure everyone gets the best start to each day. Other food and beverage options include the California-cool ShikiMiki all-day dining restaurant. There’s also a 24-hour gym, outdoor pool and an in-house spa offering locally-inspired treatments.
Element West Bay Doha, Umm Awaarad Street Doha; www.marriott.com
11. Al Samriya, Autograph Collection Hotel
Travellers seeking a touch of traditional Qatari culture might want to consider a stay at Al Samriya, Autograph Collection Hotel. Located about 20 kilometres from Doha in the Shahaniya area, this luxury resort is set inside the grounds of a local farm. Constructed using local materials and traditional masonry techniques familiar in the region, the resort has 60 rooms and 27 villas, each of which offers a luxury space to spend the night. There’s also a spa, outdoor swimming pool, fitness suite and a Lebanese restaurant.
The alcohol-free hotel is only steps away from Al Samriya equestrian centre, where guests can see Arabian horses, take riding lessons or head out on a scenic hack. The farm is also home to an oryx reserve, and guests are welcome to visit to find out more about these Arabian animals. The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum — which traces Qatar’s journey through history — is also within walking distance.
Al Samriya, Autograph Collection hotel, Dukhan Road, Al Shahaniya Shahaniyah; www.marriott.com
Ferrari 12Cilindri specs
Engine: naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12
Power: 819hp
Torque: 678Nm at 7,250rpm
Price: From Dh1,700,000
Available: Now
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Conflict, drought, famine
Estimates of the number of deaths caused by the famine range from 400,000 to 1 million, according to a document prepared for the UK House of Lords in 2024.
It has been claimed that the policies of the Ethiopian government, which took control after deposing Emperor Haile Selassie in a military-led revolution in 1974, contributed to the scale of the famine.
Dr Miriam Bradley, senior lecturer in humanitarian studies at the University of Manchester, has argued that, by the early 1980s, “several government policies combined to cause, rather than prevent, a famine which lasted from 1983 to 1985. Mengistu’s government imposed Stalinist-model agricultural policies involving forced collectivisation and villagisation [relocation of communities into planned villages].
The West became aware of the catastrophe through a series of BBC News reports by journalist Michael Buerk in October 1984 describing a “biblical famine” and containing graphic images of thousands of people, including children, facing starvation.
Band Aid
Bob Geldof, singer with the Irish rock group The Boomtown Rats, formed Band Aid in response to the horrific images shown in the news broadcasts.
With Midge Ure of the band Ultravox, he wrote the hit charity single Do They Know it’s Christmas in December 1984, featuring a string of high-profile musicians.
Following the single’s success, the idea to stage a rock concert evolved.
Live Aid was a series of simultaneous concerts that took place at Wembley Stadium in London, John F Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, the US, and at various other venues across the world.
The combined event was broadcast to an estimated worldwide audience of 1.5 billion.
THE CLOWN OF GAZA
Director: Abdulrahman Sabbah
Starring: Alaa Meqdad
Rating: 4/5
Challenge Cup result:
1. UAE 3 faults
2. Ireland 9 faults
3. Brazil 11 faults
4. Spain 15 faults
5. Great Britain 17 faults
6. New Zealand 20 faults
7. Italy 26 faults
Earth under attack: Cosmic impacts throughout history
- 4.5 billion years ago: Mars-sized object smashes into the newly-formed Earth, creating debris that coalesces to form the Moon
- 66 million years ago: 10km-wide asteroid crashes into the Gulf of Mexico, wiping out over 70 per cent of living species – including the dinosaurs.
- 50,000 years ago: 50m-wide iron meteor crashes in Arizona with the violence of 10 megatonne hydrogen bomb, creating the famous 1.2km-wide Barringer Crater
- 1490: Meteor storm over Shansi Province, north-east China when large stones “fell like rain”, reportedly leading to thousands of deaths.
- 1908: 100-metre meteor from the Taurid Complex explodes near the Tunguska river in Siberia with the force of 1,000 Hiroshima-type bombs, devastating 2,000 square kilometres of forest.
- 1998: Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 breaks apart and crashes into Jupiter in series of impacts that would have annihilated life on Earth.
-2013: 10,000-tonne meteor burns up over the southern Urals region of Russia, releasing a pressure blast and flash that left over 1600 people injured.
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What can victims do?
Always use only regulated platforms
Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion
Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)
Report to local authorities
Warn others to prevent further harm
Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence
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The specs
Engine: 4 liquid-cooled permanent magnet synchronous electric motors placed at each wheel
Battery: Rimac 120kWh Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (LiNiMnCoO2) chemistry
Power: 1877bhp
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The specs
Engine: Four electric motors, one at each wheel
Power: 579hp
Torque: 859Nm
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Price: From Dh825,900
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Dates for the diary
To mark Bodytree’s 10th anniversary, the coming season will be filled with celebratory activities:
- September 21 Anyone interested in becoming a certified yoga instructor can sign up for a 250-hour course in Yoga Teacher Training with Jacquelene Sadek. It begins on September 21 and will take place over the course of six weekends.
- October 18 to 21 International yoga instructor, Yogi Nora, will be visiting Bodytree and offering classes.
- October 26 to November 4 International pilates instructor Courtney Miller will be on hand at the studio, offering classes.
- November 9 Bodytree is hosting a party to celebrate turning 10, and everyone is invited. Expect a day full of free classes on the grounds of the studio.
- December 11 Yogeswari, an advanced certified Jivamukti teacher, will be visiting the studio.
- February 2, 2018 Bodytree will host its 4th annual yoga market.
Sheikh Zayed's poem
When it is unveiled at Abu Dhabi Art, the Standing Tall exhibition will appear as an interplay of poetry and art. The 100 scarves are 100 fragments surrounding five, figurative, female sculptures, and both sculptures and scarves are hand-embroidered by a group of refugee women artisans, who used the Palestinian cross-stitch embroidery art of tatreez. Fragments of Sheikh Zayed’s poem Your Love is Ruling My Heart, written in Arabic as a love poem to his nation, are embroidered onto both the sculptures and the scarves. Here is the English translation.
Your love is ruling over my heart
Your love is ruling over my heart, even a mountain can’t bear all of it
Woe for my heart of such a love, if it befell it and made it its home
You came on me like a gleaming sun, you are the cure for my soul of its sickness
Be lenient on me, oh tender one, and have mercy on who because of you is in ruins
You are like the Ajeed Al-reem [leader of the gazelle herd] for my country, the source of all of its knowledge
You waddle even when you stand still, with feet white like the blooming of the dates of the palm
Oh, who wishes to deprive me of sleep, the night has ended and I still have not seen you
You are the cure for my sickness and my support, you dried my throat up let me go and damp it
Help me, oh children of mine, for in his love my life will pass me by.
Western Clubs Champions League:
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Dubai College A 50-12 Dubai College B
Gulf Men's League final
Dubai Hurricanes 24-12 Abu Dhabi Harlequins
Team Angel Wolf Beach Blast takes place every Wednesday between 4:30pm and 5:30pm
New Zealand 15 British & Irish Lions 15
New Zealand 15
Tries: Laumape, J Barrett
Conversions: B Barrett
Penalties: B Barrett
British & Irish Lions 15
Penalties: Farrell (4), Daly
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
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Important questions to consider
1. Where on the plane does my pet travel?
There are different types of travel available for pets:
- Manifest cargo
- Excess luggage in the hold
- Excess luggage in the cabin
Each option is safe. The feasibility of each option is based on the size and breed of your pet, the airline they are traveling on and country they are travelling to.
2. What is the difference between my pet traveling as manifest cargo or as excess luggage?
If traveling as manifest cargo, your pet is traveling in the front hold of the plane and can travel with or without you being on the same plane. The cost of your pets travel is based on volumetric weight, in other words, the size of their travel crate.
If traveling as excess luggage, your pet will be in the rear hold of the plane and must be traveling under the ticket of a human passenger. The cost of your pets travel is based on the actual (combined) weight of your pet in their crate.
3. What happens when my pet arrives in the country they are traveling to?
As soon as the flight arrives, your pet will be taken from the plane straight to the airport terminal.
If your pet is traveling as excess luggage, they will taken to the oversized luggage area in the arrival hall. Once you clear passport control, you will be able to collect them at the same time as your normal luggage. As you exit the airport via the ‘something to declare’ customs channel you will be asked to present your pets travel paperwork to the customs official and / or the vet on duty.
If your pet is traveling as manifest cargo, they will be taken to the Animal Reception Centre. There, their documentation will be reviewed by the staff of the ARC to ensure all is in order. At the same time, relevant customs formalities will be completed by staff based at the arriving airport.
4. How long does the travel paperwork and other travel preparations take?
This depends entirely on the location that your pet is traveling to. Your pet relocation compnay will provide you with an accurate timeline of how long the relevant preparations will take and at what point in the process the various steps must be taken.
In some cases they can get your pet ‘travel ready’ in a few days. In others it can be up to six months or more.
5. What vaccinations does my pet need to travel?
Regardless of where your pet is traveling, they will need certain vaccinations. The exact vaccinations they need are entirely dependent on the location they are traveling to. The one vaccination that is mandatory for every country your pet may travel to is a rabies vaccination.
Other vaccinations may also be necessary. These will be advised to you as relevant. In every situation, it is essential to keep your vaccinations current and to not miss a due date, even by one day. To do so could severely hinder your pets travel plans.
Source: Pawsome Pets UAE
The specs
- Engine: 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Power: 640hp
- Torque: 760nm
- On sale: 2026
- Price: Not announced yet
Key facilities
- Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
- Premier League-standard football pitch
- 400m Olympic running track
- NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
- 600-seat auditorium
- Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
- An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
- Specialist robotics and science laboratories
- AR and VR-enabled learning centres
- Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills
The specs
Engine: 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6
Power: 380hp at 5,800rpm
Torque: 530Nm at 1,300-4,500rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto
Price: From Dh299,000 ($81,415)
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Global state-owned investor ranking by size
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Norway
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Canada
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Singapore
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Specs
Engine: 51.5kW electric motor
Range: 400km
Power: 134bhp
Torque: 175Nm
Price: From Dh98,800
Available: Now
