Skip to main content

Posts

Qumra 2025: Where Global Creativity Meets Arab Storytelling in the Heart of Doha

  Doha is once again set to shine as a global cinema hotspot with the 11th edition of Qumra, the Doha Film Institute’s vibrant incubator for Arab and international filmmaking talent. From April 4 to 9, 2025, creative minds will gather in person, while global participants can tune in virtually from April 12 to 14. This year’s program is more dynamic than ever, offering mentorship to 49 diverse film projects from 23 countries, including 18 proudly homegrown in Qatar. It's a celebration of local storytelling on an international stage. Qumra’s beating heart is its Master Classes, led by a stellar lineup of global cinema legends: Lav Diaz, the poetic craftsman of slow cinema Darius Khondji, the visionary eye behind some of the most visually stunning films Walter Salles, whose road movies have moved hearts across continents Anna Terrazas, a costume design genius blending authenticity with artistry Johnnie To, a Hong Kong powerhouse with a legacy of captivating narratives In addition to l...
Post a Comment
Read more
Recent posts

UAE-US Partnership Driving Technological Innovation

 Technology has emerged as a cornerstone of the UAE-US economic relationship, fostering significant advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure. Leading American technology firms are forging strategic alliances with UAE companies to drive innovation and global digital transformation. One of the most significant developments in this sector is Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment in G42, a leading UAE-based AI and cloud computing firm. This collaboration aims to enhance artificial intelligence capabilities and expand cloud solutions worldwide. Additionally, Microsoft is set to establish its Global Engineering Development Centre in the UAE, further strengthening the technological bridge between the two nations. Beyond AI, the UAE-US joint investments are meeting the growing demand for tech infrastructure and data centers. In a landmark deal, US private equity firm KKR and Gulf Data Hub in Dubai have announced a substantial investment to expand d...
Post a Comment
Read more

Dubai’s Self-Driving Taxis to Hit the Roads Soon

Dubai is taking a major leap into the future of transportation by introducing driverless taxis, with a full-scale launch expected in 2026. In collaboration with Uber, Baidu, and the RTA, the city aims to bring cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology to its streets. This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to make 25% of public transport driverless by 2030. The self-driving cabs will offer a safer and more convenient travel option, catering to a wide range of passengers, including residents, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs. A trial phase will take place in 2025 to assess the efficiency and reliability of these autonomous vehicles before their official deployment. The introduction of driverless taxis is expected to significantly reduce road accidents by 12%, improving overall traffic safety and efficiency. With its commitment to innovation, Dubai is setting a new benchmark for smart cities worldwide, leading the way in autonomous mobility solutions.
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE Ranks #1 in Global Entrepreneurship for the Fourth Time

 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again topped the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report 2024/2025 , securing its position as the best country for entrepreneurship among 56 global economies . This remarkable achievement marks the fourth consecutive year that the UAE has ranked first, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem. Why the UAE is a Global Leader in Business The UAE has positioned itself as a prime destination for startups, entrepreneurs, and SMEs . With a streamlined business setup process , entrepreneurs can obtain a business license in just 15 minutes through the Bashar platform. The country’s free zones provide additional incentives, offering 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified registration processes , without requiring a local sponsor. Furthermore, the UAE is known for its pro-business policies, skilled workforce, and advanced infrastructure , making it a highly attractive market for investors. Key Fac...
Post a Comment
Read more

Celebrate Gulf Maritime Heritage: Katara’s Photography Competition at Al-Nahma Festival 2025

  The Cultural Village Foundation Katara is pleased to announce a Photography Competition as part of the Katara Al-Nahma Art Festival and Award Naham Al Khaleej 2025. From April 13 to 15, 2025, this festival will take place at Katara Beach (southern area), honoring the deep-rooted maritime traditions of the Gulf and the evocative Al Nahma melodies sung by seafarers of the past. To visually capture this important cultural legacy, Katara invites photographers of all levels to participate in the competition, highlighting the vibrancy of the festival, the emotional performances of Al Nahma, and the seafaring traditions of the Gulf. Who Can Participate? The competition is open to both amateur and professional photographers eager to document the festival’s energy and heritage. Participants are encouraged to focus on themes such as: The passionate expressions of Al Nahma performers The intricate details of Gulf dhow craftsmanship The stunning natural beauty of the sea and surroundings Sub...
Post a Comment
Read more

US President Plans High-Stakes Visit to the Gulf

  The US President announced on Monday that he intends to visit Saudi Arabia as early as next month to finalize a significant investment deal. This will mark his first foreign trip of his second term, with additional stops planned in the UAE and Qatar. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated, "It could be next month, maybe a little later." Sources familiar with the matter suggest that mid-May is being considered for the high-profile visit to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. During his first term, Trump prioritized Saudi Arabia and Israel as the initial destinations of his inaugural international tour. The upcoming visit aims to secure a massive investment agreement, potentially exceeding $1 trillion, which is expected to boost the US economy. The deal may also include significant military purchases. Beyond economic discussions, the President’s visit is likely to cover pressing global issues, including the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Since Hamas launched an attack on...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Enduring Legacy of Val Kilmer

  The entertainment world is paying tribute to Val Kilmer, an actor whose versatility and dedication made him a beloved Hollywood figure. Kilmer, best known for his roles in Top Gun , Batman Forever , and The Doors , has passed away at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news, with reports stating pneumonia as the cause of death. The actor had previously battled throat cancer since 2014, undergoing procedures that profoundly altered his voice. Born with an innate talent for performance, Kilmer was the youngest student admitted to Juilliard, where he honed his craft. His cinematic journey began with Top Secret! in 1984, followed by Real Genius , but it was his role as Iceman in Top Gun that cemented his status as a Hollywood heavyweight. His cool, confident portrayal of the skilled fighter pilot alongside Tom Cruise made him an instant favorite among moviegoers. Kilmer’s career spanned a variety of roles, showcasing his incredible range. His transformation ...
Post a Comment
Read more