Saudi Arabia has introduced the design for AlUla Manara, a major astronomy and science destination planned to strengthen AlUla's position as a global hub for astrotourism, scientific research, and public engagement with the night sky.

The project will be built within AlUla's internationally recognized Dark Sky Park, the world's third-largest, between the Gharameel Nature Reserve and Harrat Uwayrid Reserve. It aims to blend the region's centuries-old astronomical heritage with modern scientific exploration, creating a space dedicated to education, discovery, and innovation.

The architectural concept has been developed by Heatherwick Studio, the internationally acclaimed firm responsible for projects such as Little Island in New York, Azabudai Hills in Tokyo, and Coal Drops Yard in London. The design recently received approval from the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), supporting Saudi Arabia's broader ambitions under Vision 2030 to expand its leadership in scientific research, innovation, astronomy, and sustainable tourism.

Inspired by spiral formations commonly found throughout the universe, including galaxies, planetary rings, and star clusters, the structure also reflects natural patterns seen in fossils, shells, and plant life. Its exterior will feature textured stone cladding that echoes AlUla's sandstone mountains and the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

The building has also been designed with sustainability in mind. Integrated shading systems will help regulate sunlight during the day while preserving the area's exceptional dark skies at night. Operable windows will adapt to changing weather conditions, improving energy efficiency without compromising panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

RCU Vice President of Wildlife and Natural Heritage Naif Al-Malik said the project reflects AlUla's commitment to conservation-led development and environmental sustainability.

He noted that the region's pristine night skies are among its most valuable natural assets and that AlUla Manara will serve as a platform for scientific research, education, and innovation while helping protect this unique celestial environment for future generations.

According to the Royal Commission, the project represents a new approach to connecting people with the night sky by combining cultural heritage, ancient landscapes, and modern astronomy. Officials believe it will strengthen Saudi Arabia's growing role in global space research while establishing AlUla as a leading international astronomy destination.

The initiative builds on AlUla's expanding astrotourism program, which already includes Dark Sky Park certifications, astronomy education initiatives, and an Astrotourism Policy that introduces lighting controls, zoning regulations, and visitor management measures to preserve the area's exceptional viewing conditions.

Heatherwick Studio Executive Partner and Group Leader Stuart Wood said the design seeks to make astronomy more accessible by moving away from the traditional image of remote scientific facilities.

He explained that the visitor centre has been conceived as an immersive environment where guests can experience the wonder of the universe while engaging directly with world-class scientific research and interactive learning.

Rather than functioning solely as an observatory, AlUla Manara will offer visitors, researchers, and astronomy enthusiasts opportunities to participate in hands-on educational experiences and observe scientific discovery in real time.

The facility will include immersive exhibition galleries, a planetarium, a restaurant, and a rooftop observation deck, allowing guests to explore astronomy through both interactive experiences and active research activities.

RCU Chief Tourism Officer Phillip Jones said AlUla's night skies have guided travellers and communities for thousands of years while inspiring stories and shaping the region's cultural identity.

He added that AlUla Manara will connect visitors with this rich heritage while showcasing the future of astronomical exploration. Jones also said the project has the potential to become a defining landmark for AlUla, similar to how Maraya has gained international recognition for its architecture and cultural significance.

He said the development will further diversify AlUla's tourism offering beyond archaeology, heritage, and culture, making the destination increasingly attractive to high-value travellers, astronomy enthusiasts, and scientific researchers from around the world.

Source: ARAB NEWS

The General Authority of Customs (GAC) has confirmed that comprehensive regulatory measures are firmly in place to ensure the uninterrupted entry of goods and commodities into the country, safeguarding supply chain continuity and maintaining a steady flow of imports.

According to the authority, close coordination is ongoing with relevant government entities to reinforce supply chain resilience and streamline customs procedures. GAC has strengthened its operational presence across all entry points — including land, sea, and air routes — to facilitate the smooth clearance of shipments, with particular priority given to essential commodities such as food and medical supplies.

In response to regional challenges and risks associated with maritime routes, the use of land corridors has been significantly expanded to reduce dependence on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The authority continues to implement expedited customs clearance processes while diversifying import sources, ensuring that perishable goods remain consistently available despite disruptions in sea transport. Additionally, the International Road Transport (TIR) system has been activated at the Abu Samra border crossing to further enhance the efficiency of cross-border cargo movement.

GAC has urged logistics and cargo operators to register under the TIR system, highlighting its ability to cut waiting times at border checkpoints by up to 90%, thereby accelerating cargo handling and maintaining a stable inflow of goods. All clearance procedures, the authority emphasized, are conducted in accordance with internationally recognized standards.

To further support efficiency, GAC has introduced dedicated fast-track lanes for essential goods, implemented round-the-clock customs operations, and simplified inspection and documentation requirements—while maintaining stringent quality controls.

Officials reassured that there is no risk of shortages in key commodities, particularly food, pharmaceuticals, and raw materials for local industries. They noted that the country’s supply network remains robust and diversified, supported by multiple sourcing channels and transport routes, ensuring reliable alternatives even amid potential regional escalation.

The authority also underscored its well-established crisis management framework, backed by advanced digital systems. Central to this is the Al Nadeeb electronic customs platform, which integrates government agencies and private sector stakeholders into a unified digital interface. The platform allows for online submission of documents, electronic payments, and approvals, significantly reducing processing times and minimizing the need for physical inspections.

In March alone, GAC processed a total of 255,080 customs declarations. The Al Nadeeb platform recorded 1,179 active users, while the customer service centre handled 790 transactions. During the same period, authorities reported 44 seizure cases.

Meanwhile, the domestic retail market continues to demonstrate strong stability, with no indications of shortages. Essential goods, including both food and non-food items, remain widely available across retail outlets nationwide, with prices largely stable compared to pre-crisis levels.

Authorities attributed this to swift and coordinated government action, effective collaboration with the private sector, and rigorous market monitoring measures aimed at preventing price manipulation and ensuring consumer protection.

Source: gulf-times

The Council of Ministers Secretariat General has released the official working hours for government entities during the Holy Month of Ramadan 2026. Government employees will observe a five-hour workday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

To provide flexibility, employees may begin their workday as late as 10:00 AM, provided they complete the full five-hour schedule and fulfill all work responsibilities.

In addition, up to 30% of government staff are permitted to work remotely. Priority for remote work will be given to Qatari mothers and individuals with disabilities, while ensuring that the operational needs of each entity are met.

The Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education will determine their own working hours and schedules based on specific operational requirements.

The Council also reminded private sector employees to coordinate with their respective human resources departments regarding Ramadan working arrangements.

This announcement aims to balance employee well-being during Ramadan with the continued delivery of public services across Qatar.

Visit Qatar has concluded the 2026 edition of Brouq, its signature desert experience, after attracting over 60,000 visitors throughout the winter season. The 77-day event, which ran until 10 February, drew 61,121 attendees, reaffirming its place as one of Qatar’s most popular open-air attractions during the cooler months.

Set against the scenic desert backdrop, Brouq 2026 offered a dynamic mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment. Among its main highlights, the Desert Escape Zone featured a 25-metre Adventure Tower, a new zipline experience, open-air dining venues, and an ongoing schedule of live performances. It was one of five new areas introduced this year to add more variety and excitement to the experience.

The Film City Zone brought local culture to life through falcon photo opportunities, henna art, traditional music, and storytelling sessions. Across the site, visitors could take part in more than 500 activities and workshops, many designed for families and younger audiences. Puppet shows, face painting, and caricature drawing helped create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for children.

This year’s edition also unveiled several new features, including the Sunset Lounge, Brouq Wildlife Reserve, Mini Safari Cars, and the Family Majlis, expanding the range of things to see and do. The activation was further supported by 24 food, beverage and retail vendors, making it a complete outing for families and groups.

Visit Qatar said Brouq continues to support the country’s tourism goals by enriching the local leisure offering, encouraging residents and visitors to explore more of Qatar, and adding momentum to the nation’s year-round events calendar.

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) recently hosted a comprehensive technical workshop in collaboration with Jeppesen, the internationally recognized provider of aeronautical charting solutions.

This initiative was convened to address the recent amendments to ICAO Annex 14, which governs aerodrome design and operations, and Annex 15, covering Aeronautical Information Services, ensuring that Qatar’s aviation stakeholders remain fully informed of evolving international regulatory frameworks and best practices.

The session was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the implications of these regulatory updates for aerodrome infrastructure, aeronautical data dissemination, and the preparation of navigation material critical for safe and efficient flight operations.

By enhancing technical competencies, QCAA aims to support alignment with global standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and to reinforce Qatar’s commitment to maintaining world‑class aviation safety, efficiency, and compliance.

Representatives from key aviation entities—including the Air Navigation Department, Qatar Airways, and Hamad International Airport—actively engaged in the workshop, exchanging insights and practical perspectives on integrating the latest Annex requirements into their operational processes.

This collaborative forum also facilitated discussions on the practical application of updated aeronautical information services and charting procedures, which are essential for accurate flight planning and air traffic management.

The workshop underlines QCAA’s ongoing efforts to foster continuous professional development and strengthen coordination among national aviation stakeholders, thereby supporting Qatar’s broader objectives in aviation safety, regulatory excellence, and adherence to international civil aviation best practices.

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has organized a comprehensive awareness and training workshop for inspectors specializing in travel and air cargo agencies under its Air Transport Department. The event, held from January 26 to 28, 2026, seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight within Qatar’s aviation and travel sectors while enhancing institutional efficiency in line with global standards.

The three-day program aims to deepen inspectors’ understanding of the newly enacted law governing travel and air cargo agencies, as well as its executive regulations. Participants are being introduced to updated procedures covering agency licensing, renewal processes, operational compliance, and inspection methodologies.

The agenda also includes discussions on monitoring mechanisms for ensuring adherence to national regulations and the proper licensing of international distribution system companies authorized to operate in Qatar.

In addition, the sessions address the technical and safety requirements related to the transport of dangerous goods, ensuring that operations across the sector remain fully aligned with the safety frameworks and best practices established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Through interactive presentations and case studies, the workshop highlights the vital role inspectors play in overseeing industry standards and enforcing compliance. The program also aims to enhance participants’ analytical and field inspection skills, enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively and contribute to raising the overall quality of regulatory performance across the aviation ecosystem.

This initiative forms part of the QCAA’s continuous professional development plan aimed at upgrading the competencies of its workforce and fostering a culture of excellence in regulatory practices. It also supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes human capital development and the advancement of skilled national professionals capable of driving sustainable growth in strategically important sectors such as civil aviation.

By investing in advanced training and awareness initiatives, the QCAA reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the highest levels of safety, efficiency, and service quality within Qatar’s rapidly expanding aviation and travel industries.