The British Council Qatar Announces 10th Edition of the Qatar-UK Festival 2025, Celebrating a Decade of Cultural Collaboration

●The 10th edition of the Qatar-UK Festival will spotlight ‘Creative Industries’ as this year’s theme, celebrating a decade of cultural partnership between Qatar and the UK.

●Flagship events include the Creative Industries Forum and Fashion Show, alongside visual arts exhibitions, photography competitions, gaming contests, teen innovation showcases, and more.

The British Council, in partnership with Qatar Museums, the British Embassy Doha, and the UK Department for Business & Trade, supported by GREAT campaign proudly announces the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival, taking place from 2–12 December 2025. The Festival is an ongoing legacy of the hugely successful Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture.

Marking a decade of cultural collaboration, this milestone edition celebrates the strategic partnership between Qatar and the UK and the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Department of Business and Trade, the British Council and Qatar Museums, under the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. The MoU signifies a long-term commitment to advancing collaboration in the creative industries and cultural exchange between both nations.

The 2025 Qatar-UK Festival edition coincides with Qatar Museums’ 20th anniversary, making it a particularly special moment that recognises Qatar’s continued investment in arts, culture, and innovation. The festival returns as a vibrant platform for creative collaboration, activating the MoU through a programme focused on creativity, innovation, and partnership across sectors.

Through a dynamic programme, the festival will showcase how culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship come together to nurture young talent, drive sustainable growth, and deepen people-to-people connections.

Programme Highlights – 10th Edition

●       Creative Industries Forum (10th December, National Museum of Qatar): Flagship policy and creative dialogue convening cultural leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from both nations to explore collaboration in fashion, design, media, film and technology, gaming and e-sport, cultural infrastructure and creative hubs.

●       Fashion Show (Museum of Islamic Art): A grand event spotlighting sustainability, heritage, fashion and sport, and emerging talent in Qatar’s fashion scene.

●       Qatar International Art Festival: Exhibitions and live art from Qatari and international artists, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a global arts hub.

●       Photography & AI Competition: Showcasing creative expressions of identity, community, and connection, with winning entries exhibited during the festival.

●       Teen Hub Collaboration: Youth innovation, teens sustainable fashion show, and AI and art workshops in partnership with Teen Art Awards.

●       Gaming & E-sports Showcase: Highlighting the intersection of technology, youth culture, and digital innovation on 9^th December at the Teen Hub.

Mr Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, added: “As Qatar Museums marks its 20th anniversary, we are honoured to celebrate this milestone alongside the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival a legacy of the Qatar-UK 2013 Year of Culture. Our partnership with the British Council continues to strengthen Qatar’s role as a regional and global cultural hub, championing creativity, innovation, and the exchange of ideas that drive the creative economy forward.”

His Excellency, the British Ambassador to the State of Qatar Mr Neerav Patel said: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the British Council and the entire team on marking ten years of the Qatar–UK Festival, a decade of creative exchange and meaningful connection. The festival embodies the best of our longstanding friendship, creativity, collaboration, and shared ambition. It highlights how cultural exchange and the creative industries connect our people and open new opportunities for innovation and growth. As we celebrate this milestone, the UK remains deeply committed to supporting Qatar’s creative journey and our shared vision for the future.”

Dr Waseem Kotoub, Country Director for British Council Qatar, said: “We are proud to mark the 10th edition of the Qatar–UK Festival, a legacy built on connection, creativity, and collaboration. Over the past decade, the festival has served as a catalyst for dialogue and exchange between Qatar and the UK, bringing together artists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers who believe in the power of culture to transform societies. We look to the future with renewed energy and purpose, continuing our work to support Qatar’s growing creative economy and its ambition to build a knowledge-based economy as envisioned in Qatar National Vision 2030. Through education, skills development, and cross-sector collaboration, the British Council remains deeply committed to creating opportunities that empower young people and drive sustainable growth across both our nations.”

Strategic partners of the festival this year are the Years of Culture initiative, Qatar Museums, Media City and Qatar Development Bank and Scale7, Cultural Attache Office in the UK, Qatar University.

The festival has also brought a wide range of UK and Qatar partners and businesses to celebrate the two nations’ friendship, including Liberty UK, Bentley Cars, Teen Hub, Hurlingham Polo 1875, Polo AlMarsa, Tasweer, M7, Qatar International Art Festival, Katara Cultural Village Foundation, Teen art awards, Dunes and Bisht Magazines, Quest, The Edge, Qatar Businesswomen Association, KON Group W.L.L.

For more information on the partnership and the Qatar UK Festival programme, please contact:

Sachi Kumar, Senior Communications Manager, sachi.kumar@britishcouncil.org

Aya Hassan, Arts Project Manager, aya.hassan@britishcouncil.org 

#BritishCouncil #QatarUK

Saif Ali Khan and Alfardan Corporation Celebrate an Exclusive Evening at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl – Qatar

In a private gathering that reflected elegance and exclusivity in equal measure, distinguished actor, producer and man of timeless lineage Saif Ali Khan joined senior leadership from Alfardan Corporation for an intimate evening at Chotto Matte at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl – Qatar. Held on this iconic island address, the event brought together VIPs, esteemed dignitaries, distinguished guests and partners to celebrate refined living and the promise of premium real estate in Qatar.

Located on a private island within The Pearl, The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island continues to set a new benchmark for sophisticated living. Its combination of waterfront views, world-class amenities and the legendary St. Regis service ethos, has positioned the development as one of the most sought-after destinations for discerning homeowners and global investors. The St. Regis Residences offer 1- to 4-bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses with freehold ownership, ensuring privacy and exclusive resort-style living.

Speaking about the occasion, Saif Ali Khan shared:“For me, choosing where you live is not only a practical decision, but also a personal one. The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island offer a sense of peace and sophistication that is very rare. It is private, beautifully designed and yet connected. As someone who appreciates a life built on comfort and intuitive service, this felt like the perfect choice for my family and me. Qatar has a special charm; it brings together tradition and modernity in a way that is both inspiring and reassuring.”

The evening unfolded as a showcase of the island’s unique character: understated in form yet profound in experience. Guests experienced the luxury of space, the island’s gastronomic offerings, the serenity of its landscapes and the hallmark services that define life at The Residences. With a curated selection of fine dining, wellness and bespoke lifestyle experiences, the property has become synonymous with a new standard of contemporary luxury living.

Mohamed Sleiman, CEO of Alfardan Properties and Alfardan Hospitality, remarked on the occasion:“Tonight was a celebration of more than ownership. It reflected the discerning choices that modern global citizens are making; seeking destinations that offer security, privacy and an elevated way of life. The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island continue to attract a growing community of families, entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. We are proud to showcase a development that represents the spirit of Qatar: visionary, dependable and designed with a deep respect for craftsmanship and legacy.”

Qatar’s luxury real estate market continues to attract international attention. Across the region, Qatar stands apart for its infrastructure, future-ready economy, international mega events, and investor-friendly policies, factors that have contributed to a growing trend of global investors purchasing premium homes in Doha and within signature developments like The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island. The island’s portfolio of apartments, penthouses and townhouses offers residents a rare combination of privacy, prestige and enduring value.

At a time when global citizens are seeking destinations that deliver both lifestyle and legacy, The Residences at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island represent one of the most exclusive addresses in the region. More than an architectural landmark, it is a proposition built on trust, craftsmanship and a vision for exquisite living. The gathering reflected that very spirit; where luxury is not merely showcased but quietly celebrated.

For inquiries about ownership and investment opportunities at the island, contact Qatar Sotheby’s International Realty at +974 3369 3335 or info@qatarsothebysrealty.com

#STRegis #MarsaArabia #ThePearlQatar

Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025 Unveils Official Partners for Qatar’s First Waterfront Polo Event

Qatar’s First Waterfront Polo Event, Supported by a Prestigious Roster of Partners, to Take Place at Old Doha Port, 11–13 December 2025

Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025, the very first exhibition polo event to take place at Old Doha Port from 11 to 13 December 2025, proudly announces new partners joining its distinguished line-up of sponsors supporting its inaugural edition.

Hosted by Qatar Polo Club, supported by The Social & Sport Contribution Fund DAAM, and presented by Qatar Calendar, Polo AlMarsa is bringing the elegance and energy of polo to the heart of Doha through a three-day celebration that unites sport, culture, and lifestyle, driven by the Strategic Cultural Partnership with Years of Culture, this year celebrating Argentina and Chile.

Held at Old Doha Port, the official venue host, Polo AlMarsa 2025 prepares for its launch with the invaluable commitment of its partners already shaping the anticipated prestige and excellence of the event.

Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025 continues to garner distinguished support from diverse sectors announcing new partners including Genesis as Official Automotive Partner, Equine Veterinary Medical Center as Official Equine Veterinary Partner, Beverly Hills Polo Club as Official Fragrance Partner, Gold Apple as Official Beauty Supplier, Bakertilly as Official Consulting Partner, and Mjhar News as Official News Partner.

With this remarkable support building across the country, these partners represent a powerful community movement, standing behind Qatar Polo Club to bring an unprecedented celebration of polo, culture, and lifestyle to Doha for the very first time. 

In recognition of all distinguished partnerships, Mr. Ashraf Abuissa, Chairman of the Qatar Polo Club (QPC), commented, "We extend our deepest gratitude to all our sponsors whose commitment and generosity have made Polo AlMarsa 2025 possible. Their support not only elevates the stature of this event but also reflects a shared vision of excellence and community that Polo AlMarsa embodies.”

Since its announcement, the foundations of Polo AlMarsa 2025 were strengthened by partners who pledged their support from the very outset, including Qatar Polo Club as the Official host , The Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM) as Supporting Partner, the Years of Culture initiative as the Strategic Cultural Partner, Qatar Calendar as Presenting Partner, Old Doha Port as Official Strategic Venue Partner, QIC as Official Insurance Partner, Aspetar as Official Medical Partner, Ooredoo as Official Telecom Partner, Hurlingham Polo 1875 as Official Retail Partner, Qatar Living as Official Digital and Lifestyle Media Partner, IloveQatar as Official Multimedia Partner, Arsan as Official Arena Advisor, Plaza Hollandi as Official Floral Supplier, The Look Company as Official Branding Partner, and MUSE as official organizer.

In addition to these esteemed partners, the dedicated network of collaborators continues to elevate the Polo AlMarsa Qatar 2025 experience across design, media, culture, retail, beauty, branding, and guest services. Their combined expertise from premium arena operations and storytelling platforms to floral artistry, lifestyle innovation, and venue transformation enhances every touchpoint of the event, ensuring an experience that reflects the heritage, elegance, and ambition at the heart of Qatar’s first-ever waterfront polo event.

Tickets can be purchased via Platinumlist (https://platinumlist.net) or the official website (https://poloalmarsa.com/tickets/), where visitors can explore full event details and packages.

With limited seating across all zones, early booking is strongly encouraged to secure the most sought-after views and experiences.

The strength and diversity of Polo AlMarsa’s partner ecosystem play an instrumental role in shaping this pioneering edition, enabling Qatar to host an experience that blends heritage, elegance, and innovation at an international standard.

#Polo #AlMarsa #Qatar