Saturday, 06 September 2025
Eid in Qatar 2025

Celebrate Eid in Qatar: Vibrant Skies, Magical Nights

A Celebration of Lights, Music, and Family: Eid in Qatar 2025
Published: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Celebrate Eid in Qatar: Vibrant Skies, Magical Nights

Prepare for a truly unforgettable Eid celebration in Qatar, where family and friends gather to enjoy a spectacular array of festivities. This joyous occasion, set for April 3 to April 5, 2025, promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with dazzling lights, enchanting live performances, and thrilling events that cater to all ages. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Eid as you partake in lively celebrations, where each moment is enriched by stage shows and breathtaking festivals, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

Key Events for Eid Celebrations

Lusail Sky Festival

Prepare for an extraordinary sky extravaganza this Eid! The Lusail Sky Festival will feature breathtaking aerial performances, including sky text planes, paramotors, laser shows, and fireworks. Families can enjoy a spectacular display as the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of acrobatics and colorful fireworks, ensuring excitement for all ages. This event is designed to be a family-friendly experience, making it a perfect outing for those looking to celebrate together.

  • Dates: 3-5 April 2025
  • Location: Al Saad Plaza, Lusail
  • Time: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Admission: Free for all visitors

Disney The Magic Box

Experience the magic of Disney like never before! This theatrical production brings beloved Disney stories to life, following the journey of Mara as she explores The Magic Box, a gateway to iconic Disney songs and characters. With over 75 classic songs and state-of-the-art puppetry, this event promises to enchant audiences of all ages. The Al Mayassa Theatre, with a capacity of 2,300 guests, provides a stunning backdrop for this magical experience, ensuring that every seat offers a great view of the performance.

  • Dates: 3-12 April 2025
  • Location: Al Mayassa Theatre, QNCC Qatar
  • Age Requirement: Suitable for ages 3 and above

Soul of Gold Exhibition

The "Soul of Gold" Exhibition showcases the work of Turkish artist Hatice Yetiş and her students, offering a unique cultural experience during the Eid festivities. This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate art and creativity, making it a perfect addition to your Eid itinerary.

  • Dates: 4 March - 6 April 2025
  • Location: Building 18, Hall 2, Katara Cultural Village
  • Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

TUL8TE Live in Qatar

Join the rising star Tul8te for an unforgettable musical journey! Known for his hit "Habeeby Leh," Tul8te blends modern pop with Egyptian musical heritage, promising a high-energy performance that you won’t want to miss. This concert is expected to attract a large audience, so securing your tickets in advance is highly recommended.

  • Date: 4 April 2025
  • Location: Doha Golf Club
  • Doors Open: 19:00
  • Show Starts: 20:00
  • Ticket Price: Starting from 195 QAR

Getting There
By Car: Follow Al Corniche St, turn left onto Al Markhiya St, then right onto Al Istiqlal St, and proceed onto Lusail Expy to reach the Doha Golf Club.
By Public Transportation: Take the red metro line to the Qatar University stop and walk from there.
By Taxi: Easily accessible via taxi or ride-hailing apps.

Make the most of your Eid celebrations in Qatar by participating in these exciting events and creating cherished memories with family and friends!

Why Greece’s Golden Visa Leads the Pack for Schengen Residency

Published: Wednesday, September 03, 2025
Why Greece’s Golden Visa Leads the Pack for Schengen Residency

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.

Bali Introduces New Customs Declaration Form for Kiwi Travellers

Published: Monday, September 01, 2025
Bali Introduces New Customs Declaration Form for Kiwi Travellers

Starting September 1, travelers to Bali, including Kiwis, must adapt to a new customs and immigration process with the introduction of the All Indonesia declaration card. This streamlined declaration form merges the existing customs and immigration processes into one, simplifying entry procedures at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Travelers are required to complete the All Indonesia declaration online no more than 72 hours before their flight, which then generates a QR code to be presented upon arrival for immigration clearance. While the form integrates multiple procedures, it does not replace visa requirements, which must still be obtained separately.

Currently, this digital declaration system is being rolled out exclusively in Bali, with plans to extend it across all Indonesian international airports by October 1. The introduction of the All Indonesia system follows earlier changes this year, including a $15.50 (150,000 IDR) tourist levy implemented by the Bali Provincial Government to fund initiatives focused on preserving the island’s culture and natural environment.

This new approach aims to create a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly entry experience for travelers entering Bali while maintaining compliance with Indonesia’s immigration, customs, and health requirements.

7 Surprising Facts About Flying with Etihad Airways

Published: Monday, September 01, 2025
7 Surprising Facts About Flying with Etihad Airways

Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airline and one of the world's top carriers, offering a travel experience that goes far beyond simply getting from point A to B. Travelers can enjoy unique perks such as a free two-night stay at luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi when booking long-haul flights with stopovers, allowing for a mini-vacation within their journey.

The stopover experience is further enhanced with a Stopover Pass that provides 15 percent discounts on major attractions and Yas Island theme parks, along with a complimentary local SIM card loaded with 10GB data for seamless connectivity.

Passengers who booked Economy tickets can bid for upgrades to Business or First Class up to four hours before departure, gaining access to fully reclining seats and gourmet meals. Loyalty members enjoy an additional bonus on miles for successful bids. The Etihad Guest loyalty program rewards travelers who reach Silver status with free access to the luxurious Etihad Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, featuring vast buffets, bars, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Staying connected in-flight is made easy with free messaging on popular apps for all loyalty members, while First Class and Platinum members enjoy complimentary full Wi-Fi. For sports fans, Etihad streams live major sporting events on longer flights, ensuring passengers don’t miss crucial matches. Lastly, the airline offers the exceptional A380 multi-room private Residence suite on select routes, featuring a bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a plush living room, personalized dining, and even a spa treatment at the airport.

These features, along with attentive service and innovative amenities such as pre-order shopping and the Flying Nanny childcare service, make Etihad Airways a standout choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and unique experiences from their flight.

How Singapore Transformed Its Airport into a Global Dining Destination

Published: Sunday, August 31, 2025
How Singapore Transformed Its Airport into a Global Dining Destination

Singapore Changi Airport is widely recognized as a premier dining destination, celebrated for its extensive range of food offerings catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Unlike typical airports known for overpriced and mediocre meals, Changi has curated a compelling food experience that attracts not only travelers but also many locals who regularly visit for casual dining and family outings.

The airport features over 300 dining establishments across its terminals and the Jewel Changi Airport complex, including casual eateries, food courts replicating Singapore’s famous hawker centers, and upscale restaurants. Its culinary variety ranges from local favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and roti prata to international cuisines such as Korean bibimbap and Indian specialties, tailored to the predominant flows of travelers in each terminal. Family-friendly options like Crown Prince Kitchenette are especially popular with locals.

Changi Airport Group maintains hands-on involvement in planning food and beverage outlets, focusing on passenger flow, seating comfort, and pricing equity with popular city locales like Orchard Road. Affordable prices, such as $2 coffees, are deliberately offered alongside premium dining experiences. Jewel Changi adds a unique dimension with spacious dining venues showcasing both global brands and local favorites, fostering a vibrant gastronomic hub.

Several new restaurants have launched recently, including Claypot Daddy and Gwangjang Gaon, blending affordable meals with authentic regional flavors. Innovative concepts such as a guided food trail game enhance engagement for both visitors and locals. Airport dining also adapts to operational constraints like kitchen exhaust limitations, ensuring quality and convenience with curated menus.

With ongoing expansion plans for Terminal 5, Changi aims to further broaden its dining portfolio with larger restaurants and more diverse offerings, securing its place as a world-leading airport culinary destination that celebrates Singapore’s rich food culture while meeting the needs of global travelers.

Saudi Arabia Grants 60-Day Grace Period for Expired Visit Visa Holders

Published: Tuesday, August 05, 2025
Saudi Arabia Grants 60-Day Grace Period for Expired Visit Visa Holders

Dubai  Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has unveiled a 60-day grace period allowing visitors with expired visit visas to leave the country legally without facing penalties. The initiative, which took effect on July 26, 2025 (1 Safar 1447 AH), applies to all categories of visit visas, including tourist, family, business, Umrah, and transit visas that have expired.

This window offers a final opportunity for eligible visitors to extend their visas solely for the purpose of a lawful exit from the Kingdom. Visitors are urged to settle any outstanding fines or fees through official channels using the “Sadad” payment system before completing the visa extension and departure process.

The move reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to providing flexible, humanitarian, and administrative solutions to residency violations, aiming to facilitate smooth and compliant departures for overstaying visitors without imposing additional burdens. Authorities called on affected individuals to act promptly within the 60-day timeframe to avoid legal repercussions and regularize their status through organized procedures.

This significant extension builds upon an earlier 30-day grace period initiated in June 2025, reinforcing the Kingdom’s efforts to streamline residency compliance amid growing travel demands. Visitors must use the Ministry of Interior’s “Absher” platform to apply for the extension and finalize their exit arrangements within the designated period. Failure to comply may result in fines or legal consequences.

This updated grace period is expected to alleviate pressure on both visitors and authorities, promoting orderly exits and maintaining Saudi Arabia’s image as a visitor-friendly destination.