Earthna Summit 2023

The Earthna Summit 2023, hosted by Qatar Foundation’s Earthna

Center for a Sustainable Future, brought together around 1000 delegates

from across the world to discuss sustainability in hot and arid environments.

The two-day Summit was held under the theme ‘Building New

Sustainability Pathways for Hot and Arid Environments’ and concluded with

a focus on utilizing indigenous knowledge to inspire modern sustainability

approaches.

The Summit was attended by several dignitaries, delegates, and guests

including H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation,

and H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of

Qatar Foundation. The closing plenary session, ‘Sustainable Use of Natural

Resources: Local Innovations,’ highlighted the need for developing

frameworks to deal with hot and arid environments that should be different

from those with temperate or tropical environments.

Local Innovations for the Sustainable Use of Natural Resources In the

presence of H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Qatar

Foundation, H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and

CEO of the Qatar Foundation, as well as numerous other dignitaries,

delegates, and guests, the Summit's closing plenary session was held at

Msheireb Downtown.

Around 1000 participants from around the world, including 70 experts

and many policymakers, attended the summit organised by the Earthna

Center for a Sustainable Future of the Qatar Foundation. The summit's

theme was "Building New Sustainability Pathways for Hot and Arid

Environments," and it covered topics such as food and security adaptation,

climate change and energy transition, resilient cities, and biodiversity.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive

Director of Earthna, emphasised that the Summit had made it evident why

creating frameworks for dealing with hot and arid settings should be distinct

from those dealing with temperate or tropical ecosystems.

Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna,

emphasized the importance of adapting globally recognized sustainability

frameworks to reflect the unique and challenging environment of hot and

arid countries, such as Qatar. He highlighted that Qatar’s economy is not

supported by its natural environment but rather by its non-renewable natural

capital in the form of gas, which is transformed into human capital,

infrastructure, and savings and investments. Sustainability needs to be

understood in this context.

Furthermore, Dr. Castro de la Mata stressed the need to utilize cultural

heritage and indigenous knowledge to inspire modern sustainability

approaches. This approach can help countries like Qatar to develop unique

and innovative solutions in sustainability. The role of youth was also

highlighted in the Summit as they are the future leaders who will inherit the

challenges of sustainability in hot and arid environments.

The Earthna Summit 2023 focused on four main topics: food and

security adaptation, climate change and energy transition, resilient cities, and

biodiversity. These topics were discussed by around 70 experts along with

many policymakers. The Summit provided a platform for policymakers and

experts to exchange ideas and discuss innovative solutions to tackle the

challenges of sustainability in hot and arid environments.

Qatar Foundation has established its Earthna Center for a Sustainable

Future, a non-profit policy center focused on developing innovative

solutions in sustainability. The Center's mission includes establishing and

promoting policy priorities, strengthening linkages between education,

research, and industry, and extending Qatar Foundation's network of

domestic and international collaboration to create a more sustainable future.

The Center will focus on sustainability in hot and arid climates, sustainable

energy, and maximizing Qatar Foundation's Education City campus as a test

bed for new technologies and sustainable implementations.

The Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future will inform and influence

national and global sustainability policy. It will leverage the Qatar

Foundation's education, research, and innovation ecosystem to maximize its

global sustainability policy role. The Center will also focus on policy

research and advocacy to develop innovative solutions in sustainability.

the Earthna Summit 2023 provided a platform to discuss and exchange

innovative ideas to tackle the challenges of sustainability in hot and arid

environments. The Summit highlighted the importance of developing unique

and innovative solutions to tackle these challenges, and utilizing cultural

heritage and indigenous knowledge to inspire modern sustainability

approaches. The Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future has been established

to promote and establish policy priorities, strengthen linkages between

education, research, and industry, and extend Qatar Foundation's network of

domestic and international collaboration to create a more sustainable future.

 Qatar International Food Festival

The Qatar International Food Festival is an annual event that takes

place in Doha, Qatar. The festival is a celebration of the diverse culinary

traditions and cuisines from around the world. The festival brings together

local and international chefs, food enthusiasts, and visitors to showcase the

best of Qatar's food scene.

The Qatar International Food Festival offers a wide range of food

options, from traditional Qatari dishes to international cuisines. The

festival's aim is to promote Qatar's food culture and create a platform for

local and international chefs to showcase their culinary skills.

The festival features several food stalls, live cooking demonstrations,

and food-related activities. Visitors can sample food from different

countries, including Qatar, India, Italy, China, and Japan. The festival also

offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to all dietary

requirements.

One of the highlights of the Qatar International Food Festival is the

live cooking demonstrations. These demonstrations are conducted by

renowned chefs from around the world who showcase their skills and
techniques to the audience. The demonstrations offer visitors an opportunity

to learn new recipes and cooking techniques.

The festival also features a range of food-related activities for visitors

of all ages. The activities include cooking competitions, food tasting

sessions, and workshops on topics such as food photography and styling.

The festival also features a dedicated zone for children, where they can learn

about healthy eating habits and participate in fun food-related activities.

The Qatar International Food Festival is not just about food; it is also

a celebration of Qatar's culture and traditions. The festival features

traditional Qatari music and dance performances, showcasing the rich

cultural heritage of the country. Visitors can also learn about Qatari

traditions and customs, including the art of Arabic coffee making and the

importance of hospitality in Qatari culture.

The festival is organized by Qatar Tourism Authority and is held in

March every year. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from around the

world and plays a significant role in promoting Qatar as a tourist destination.

The Qatar International Food Festival has had a positive impact on

Qatar's food industry. The festival has helped to promote local restaurants
and food establishments, providing them with an opportunity to showcase

their offerings to a wider audience. The festival has also encouraged the

development of new food businesses, as aspiring chefs and food

entrepreneurs are inspired to start their own ventures after attending the

festival.

The festival has also contributed to the growth of Qatar's tourism

industry. The festival attracts food enthusiasts and tourists from around the

world, providing them with a unique opportunity to experience Qatar's food

culture and traditions. The festival also encourages visitors to explore

Qatar's other tourist attractions, such as its museums, parks, and cultural

heritage sites.

The goal of Qatar Tourism is to position Qatar as a destination where

cultural authenticity and modernity coexist and where visitors from around

the globe may come together to take advantage of the country's distinctive

offerings in the fields of business, sports, family entertainment, and culture.

Qatar Tourism will oversee and advance the travel and tourism sector while

promoting private sector investment. In order to expand the country's

tourism offers and boost visitor spending, it will establish the national plan

for the tourism sector, review it on a regular basis, and oversee its execution.
Qatar Tourism is boosting the travel and tourist industry by establishing a

global presence for Qatar through a network of offices in key markets and

cutting-edge digital platforms.

In conclusion, the Qatar International Food Festival is an annual event

that celebrates Qatar's food culture and traditions. The festival offers a range

of food options, live cooking demonstrations, and food-related activities for

visitors of all ages. The festival has had a positive impact on Qatar's food

industry and tourism sector, promoting local restaurants and food

establishments and encouraging the development of new food businesses.

The festival also plays a significant role in promoting Qatar as a tourist

destination, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

 Qatar National Museum

The Qatar National Museum, located in the heart of Doha, is a cultural

and architectural masterpiece. The museum is a symbol of Qatar's heritage

and its commitment to preserving and promoting its rich culture and history.

The museum was originally established in 1975, but it underwent a major

renovation and expansion in 2019, which transformed it into the stunning

cultural landmark that it is today.It has quickly become one of the most

popular tourist attractions in Qatar.

The museum's architecture is a unique blend of traditional and modern

styles. The museum is built on the site of the former Qatar National

Museum, which was established in 1975. The new museum was designed by

French architect Jean Nouvel, who was inspired by the desert landscape of

Qatar. The museum's exterior features a series of interlocking discs that

resemble a desert rose, a common natural phenomenon in the desert region.

The museum's interior is equally impressive, featuring a range of

exhibits that showcase Qatar's history, culture, and traditions. The exhibits

are arranged thematically, with each section focusing on a particular aspect

of Qatar's heritage. The exhibits are interactive and immersive, allowing

visitors to learn about Qatar's culture and history through a range of

multimedia experiences.

One of the most impressive exhibits in the museum is the "Msheireb

Museums" exhibit, which showcases the history of the Msheireb district, one

of the oldest and most historic parts of Doha. The exhibit features a range of

artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays that tell the story of the

district's development and its importance to Qatar's history.

Another highlight of the museum is the "Palace of Sheikh Abdullah

bin Jassim Al Thani" exhibit, which showcases the former royal palace of

Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, one of Qatar's most influential

leaders. The exhibit features a range of artifacts, including furniture,

clothing, and personal items, that provide a glimpse into the life of the royal

family.

The museum also features a range of exhibits that focus on Qatar's

natural history, including its geology, flora, and fauna. The exhibits are

interactive, allowing visitors to learn about Qatar's unique natural

environment and its importance to the country's economy and culture.

 The museum's "Arts of Islamic World" exhibit is another highlight,

featuring a range of artifacts from across the Islamic world, including

ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. The exhibit showcases the diversity and

richness of Islamic art and its importance to Qatar's cultural heritage.

The museum also features a range of temporary exhibits that

showcase the work of contemporary artists and designers. These exhibits

change regularly, providing visitors with a new and exciting experience each

time they visit the museum.

In addition to its exhibits, the Qatar National Museum also features a

range of facilities, including a gift shop, a café, and a library. The library is

home to a range of books and journals that focus on Qatar's history and

culture, making it a valuable resource for researchers and scholars.

The Qatar National Museum is more than just a museum; it is a

cultural hub that plays a vital role in promoting Qatar's heritage and

traditions. The museum hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year,

including concerts, film screenings, and lectures. These events provide

visitors with a unique opportunity to experience Qatar's culture and

traditions firsthand.
 The museum also plays a vital role in education, providing

educational programs and resources to schools and universities across Qatar.

The museum's educational programs are designed to promote an

understanding and appreciation of Qatar's history and culture among young

people, ensuring that Qatar's heritage is preserved and celebrated for

generations to come.

The museum's architecture is a blend of traditional Qatari design

elements and modern technology, creating a unique and visually stunning

building that reflects Qatar's rich history and cultural heritage. The

museum's façade is made up of a series of interlocking discs, which are

inspired by the traditional Islamic pattern of the interlocking star. The discs

are made of a special type of glass that reflects light and creates a beautiful

shimmering effect.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore a range of exhibits that cover

Qatar's history from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's

exhibits are divided into three main sections: Life in Qatar, Building Qatar,

and a temporary exhibit space.

The Life in Qatar exhibit explores the daily life, customs, and

traditions of Qatar's people. The exhibit features a range of artifacts,

including clothing, jewelry, and household items, as well as interactive

displays that allow visitors to experience the sights and sounds of a

traditional Qatari market.

The Building Qatar exhibit focuses on the development of Qatar's

infrastructure and architecture, from the traditional mud-brick houses of the

past to the modern skyscrapers of today. The exhibit features models of

some of Qatar's most iconic buildings, as well as interactive displays that

allow visitors to explore the construction process.

The museum's temporary exhibit space showcases a range of exhibits

that explore a variety of topics, from ancient civilizations to contemporary

art and design. These exhibits change regularly, providing visitors with a

new and exciting experience each time they visit the museum.

One of the most impressive exhibits at the Qatar National Museum is

the Sheikh Abdullah Bin Jassim Al Thani Collection. This collection

features a range of artifacts from Qatar's prehistoric past, including stone

tools and pottery, as well as Islamic art and calligraphy. The collection also

includes a range of manuscripts and rare books, some of which date back

several centuries.
 The Qatar National Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts

and exhibits; it is a cultural and educational institution that plays a vital role

in preserving and promoting Qatar's heritage and traditions. The museum's

educational programs are designed to engage young people and promote an

understanding and appreciation of Qatar's history and culture.

In addition to its exhibits and educational programs, the Qatar

National Museum also features a range of facilities, including a gift shop, a

café, and a library. The library is home to a range of books and journals that

focus on Qatar's history and culture, making it a valuable resource for

researchers and scholars.

Overall, the Qatar National Museum is a must-visit destination for

anyone interested in learning about Qatar's rich cultural heritage. The

museum's exhibits are immersive and interactive, providing visitors with a

unique and engaging experience. The museum's architecture is a visual

masterpiece that reflects Qatar's rich history and cultural heritage. The

museum's cultural and educational programs play a vital role in promoting

an understanding and appreciation of Qatar's heritage and traditions among

young people, ensuring that Qatar's rich cultural legacy is preserved and

celebrated for generations to come.

 In conclusion, the Qatar National Museum is a cultural and

architectural masterpiece that showcases Qatar's rich history, culture, and

traditions. The museum's exhibits are immersive and interactive, providing

visitors with a unique and engaging experience. The museum also plays a

vital role in promoting Qatar's heritage and traditions through its cultural

events and educational programs. The museum is a must-visit destination for

anyone interested in learning about Qatar's rich cultural heritage.

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Alsowaidi, S. S. (2021). A Comparative Analysis Of Qatar's Tourism

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Yap, G., Saha, S., Salman Saleh, A., Oly Ndubisi, N., & Alsowaidi, S.

(2021). A Comparative Analysis Of Qatar’s Tourism Competitiveness

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Al-Mulla, M. I. (2016). The development of the first Qatar National

Museum. Cultural Heritage in the Arabian Peninsula.

Al-Hammadi, M. I. (2018). Presentation of Qatari identity at National

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Rice, M. (1977). National Museum of Qatar, Doha. Museum International.