Contemporary art is expanding rapidly across Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates as governments, museums, galleries, universities and cultural foundations invest in infrastructure and artist development. Saudi artist Manal AlDowayan’s Venice Biennale installation “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song” exemplifies how regional artists are using contemporary forms to explore identity, gender and social change. Qatar has built a strong ecosystem of schools, museums, residencies and public installations, while the UAE has expanded its galleries, art fairs and cultural districts. The growth is giving local and regional artists greater international visibility and positioning the Arabian Gulf as a significant multicultural center for contemporary art.

The beauty industry in Qatar is undergoing significant changes with a focus on sustainability, products for men, and the impact of social media. Entrepreneurs like Shaikha Al Mudahka, Amna Al-Muhannadi, Rawan Al Fares, Haneen Alsaify, and Abdulla Al Abdulla are at the forefront, creating brands like Malathii Skincare, Atlaad, and By Haneen Alsaify that emphasize natural ingredients, ethical production, and innovative products such as magnetic false eyelashes. Social media plays a crucial role in marketing and engagement, with influencers turning into successful business owners. The market for men's beauty products is also growing, with more men engaging in grooming and self-care, as observed by spa professionals like Majda Haddad and Aleksandar Vujic.

The beauty industry in Qatar is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as the pandemic, remote work, and social media. Entrepreneurs like Shaikha Al Mudahka of Malathii Skincare and the duo behind Atlaad, Amna al Muhannadi and Rawan al Fares, are leading the way with innovative and ethical products. Influencer Haneen Alsaify has successfully transitioned from a beauty blogger to a business mogul with her brand By Haneen Alsaify, known for its magnetic eyelashes. The industry is also seeing a rise in men's skincare, with figures like Abdulla Al Abdulla launching unisex luxury skincare lines. The trend towards natural and organic products is growing, and social media plays a crucial role in marketing and consumer engagement.

Qatar's healthcare system is advancing through significant investments and innovations, including the development of the Avey app, which uses AI for medical diagnostics and connects users with doctors globally. The Qatar Science and Technology Park supports startups like Avey, fostering a thriving ecosystem. Sidra Medicine is at the forefront of genetic research, utilizing advanced technologies to understand human health better. Complementary and alternative therapies, such as chiropractic and Ayurveda, are gaining popularity, offering holistic health solutions. Qatar continues to push the boundaries of modern medicine, integrating traditional and innovative approaches.

Qatar has invested over $6 billion in its healthcare sector since 2017, supporting startups like Avey, an AI-powered health app developed in the Qatar Science and Technology Park. Avey offers self-diagnosis, connects users with doctors globally, and provides online pharmacy services. The Omics Core Lab in Doha advances genetic research, contributing to the complete sequencing of the human genome. Complementary and alternative therapies, such as chiropractic and Ayurveda, are gaining popularity in Qatar, with facilities like the Remedy Centre offering holistic treatments. Qatar continues to innovate in healthcare, blending traditional and modern approaches.

Vice Admiral Brad Cooper of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, emphasized Qatar's critical role in a 34-nation maritime partnership during the DIMDEX 2022 conference in Doha. He highlighted the importance of ensuring maritime security and the free flow of commerce in the region, noting that the majority of interactions with Iran are professional. The Fifth Fleet's mission is to maintain stability and protect global trade, with a focus on strengthening partnerships and leveraging new technologies.

On Mother's Day, Doha News highlighted the stories of two mothers, Jess DuPlessis and Ophelia Johnson, balancing full-time careers with raising children in Doha. DuPlessis, a division head at a non-profit and mother of two, transitioned from UN fieldwork to business strategy in Qatar, valuing Doha's safety and healthcare. Johnson, an African-American TV journalist at Al Jazeera English and single mother of three, juggles her high-pressure job with parenting, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the safe environment Doha offers. Both women express gratitude for their circumstances despite the challenges.

In celebration of International Women's Day, Doha News features three women in Qatar who are making significant contributions in their respective fields. Rim Albahrani, an Iraqi-Swedish artist, creates abstract art that explores the concept of identity and home. Pia Sundstedt, an Olympic champion and former head coach for the Qatar Cyclists women's group, has been instrumental in making sports accessible to women in Qatar. Lolwa Ammar Al Khuzaei, a manager at Qatar National Bank, aspired to become a politician and stood in Qatar's first Shura Council elections to empower women and preserve the Arabic language. Although no women won seats in the election, two were appointed by the Amir, and Al Khuzaei remains hopeful for the future.

Ukraine's Ambassador to Qatar, Andrii Kuzmenko, in an exclusive interview with Doha News, condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a 'brutal, unprovoked act of aggression' and highlighted the unity and resolve of Ukrainians in the face of the attack. He accused Russia of committing military crimes and stated that Ukraine has requested the UN to consider its case for crimes against humanity. Kuzmenko also discussed the bilateral relations between Qatar and Ukraine, including a significant port development project and food security contributions. He denied any discrimination against non-white refugees at Ukrainian borders, attributing any disorder to the need to maintain public order. The Ambassador also commented on the role of social media in the conflict, noting both the spread of Russian disinformation and the importance of truthful, real-time information.