Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Black & White Friday Deals in Qatar: Shop Smart online and Save Big

 Black Friday, known locally as White Friday in Qatar, is a highly anticipated shopping event offering significant discounts across various retailers. In 2024, the event is expected to take place from November 21st to November 28th.

Key Retailers and Expected Offers:

  • Amazon Qatar: Anticipated discounts ranging from 25% to 70% on a wide array of products, including electronics and smartwatches. Shoppers can also benefit from additional savings by utilizing Amazon Black Friday coupon codes.

  • Carrefour Qatar: Offers substantial discounts on supermarket products, electronics, and household appliances, with sales starting from 25% and reaching up to 70%. An extra discount is available when applying the Carrefour promo code 2024: “ALC10”.

  • Noon Qatar: Provides discounts of up to 80% on various products, including clothing and home appliances. Shoppers can enjoy an additional discount by using the Noon Yellow Friday Coupon Code: "AUC244" before completing the payment process.

  • Namshi Qatar: Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to discounts of up to 70% during the White Friday offers, available to all customers in Qatar. The Namshi website is the place to visit during the special Black November deals, running from November 1 to November 30, 2024.

Tips for Shoppers:

  • Plan Ahead: Make a list of desired items and monitor prices leading up to the event to ensure genuine savings.

  • Utilize Coupons: Take advantage of available promo codes to maximize discounts.

  • Stay Informed: Subscribe to newsletters from favorite retailers to receive updates on exclusive deals and early access offers.

By staying informed and planning accordingly, shoppers in Qatar can make the most of the Black/White Friday deals in 2024.

popular Middle Eastern sweets

 

1. Baklava (بَقلاوة - Baqlawa):  
   A rich pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and sweet syrup or honey.

2. Kunafa (كنافة - Kanafeh):  
   A dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry or semolina, soaked in sweet syrup, and often layered with cheese or cream.
3. - Ma'amou 
   Shortbread cookies stuffed with dates, nuts, or figs.
keep calm -Baklava



4. Halva (حلاوة - Halawa):  
   A dense, sweet confection made from tahini (sesame paste) and sugar or honey, sometimes with nuts or chocolate.

5. Basbousa (بسبوسة - Basbousa):  
   A semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup, often garnished with coconut or nuts.

6. Qatayef (قطايف - Qatayef):  
   Sweet stuffed pancakes, typically filled with nuts, cream, or cheese and fried or baked.



keep calm -Baklava

7. Zalabia  (=زلابية= - Zalabia):  
   Deep-fried dough balls soaked in sugar syrup, similar to donuts or fritters.

8. Loukoum (راحة الحلقوم - Rahat al-Hulqum):  
   Known as Turkish Delight, it’s a chewy, jelly-like sweet flavored with rose, lemon, or pistachio and dusted with powdered sugar.

9. Asabe' Zainab (أصابع زينب - Zainab's Fingers):  
   Crispy deep-fried dough rolls soaked in syrup.







The Dubai Chocolate Craze:my review

 



When I read on a Hungarian news portal that Dubai chocolate has become so popular in Hungary that more of it is consumed than Christmas bejgli, I became a bit skeptical. There are many things that can be wonderful or delicious, but that we Hungarians would prefer something over poppy seed or walnut rolls, or even szaloncukor? Now, that I don’t believe!



I just bought one, and I didn’t find anything extraordinary about it. It’s an unbearably sweet milk chocolate, with pistachio filling that’s barely noticeable because the overwhelming sugar burns through the flavor—and the kunafa? It’s just like a thin wafer, nothing more.



Then I did some research and found out that this "made in Turkey" version is just a pale imitation of the original chocolate, which is made in a Dubai-based artisan factory. The original costs $20, and only 500 pieces are produced daily. It's very hard to get your hands on it.


The original version's name was Can't Get Knafeh of It—a clever wordplay for those who understand both English and Arabic. It features a creamy filling, whereas this Turkish version is completely dry.

Seeing the great interest, the Lindt chocolate factory also released a limited-edition version, for which people stood in line for hours in some major European cities.







Up Close with Qatar's White-Eared Bulbul

 I was sitting on the terrace of a famous comfort-food tea house in the Katara district when this little bird came over to me. This is the famous white-eared bulbul, Qatar's national bird.



The white-eared bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis) is a small, cheerful bird native to South Asia and the Middle East, particularly known as the national bird of Qatar. Its distinctive feature is the white "ear patch" on its head, which contrasts beautifully with its dark plumage. It is often found in gardens, parks, and urban environments, where it is unafraid of being close to people.




Feeding Ducks, Fines, and Quiet Cafés: A Day at Aspire Park

 Aspire Park is best known for its large artificial lake in the center, where ducks happily swim, attracting other birds like a magnet. Last year, after immense effort, the water of this roughly 15-year-old lake was drained and thoroughly cleaned—no small task for such a large "duck bath"! It's no surprise that authorities are now trying to dissuade people from feeding the birds with bits of bread.




Hourly announcements over the loudspeakers warned that fines as high as  $3,000 could be imposed for littering, including feeding the ducks. And yet, the most astonishing part: some families still thought a few crumbs were worth the risk. It seems there are people who love feeding ducks even more than they fear the rules! 🦆😊





Perhaps the authorities should first inform the public about why feeding the ducks is harmful to everyone, including the ducks themselves. I can imagine that some people might think feeding them is a kind and generous act.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t indulge in my favorite pastime—watching the birds from a café terrace by the lake. Both lakeside cafés were closed and appeared empty, as if waiting for a new tenant.


There are smaller kiosks, however, where you can get a drink or a snack.

    

Monday, November 18, 2024

Two years ago today, the Argentina National Team embarked on their journey to Qatar

 


What a significant day to remember for Argentina fans! Two years ago today, the Argentina National Team embarked on their journey to Qatar, a moment that marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in football history. That journey culminated in their **triumphant victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, securing their third World Cup title and fulfilling the long-awaited dream of their captain, Lionel Messi.


Here are some highlights from that incredible journey:


The Start of a Dream


- The Argentina squad left for Qatar with high hopes, riding on their unbeaten streak and their recent Copa América triumph in 2021.

- Fans worldwide were buzzing with excitement, believing that this could be the year Argentina added another star to their crest.


Historic Triumph


- Argentina’s campaign in Qatar was full of drama and resilience, starting with a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia but ending with one of the greatest World Cup finals in history against France.

- The final was a rollercoaster, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé putting on a masterclass. Argentina ultimately won in a penalty shootout, with **Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez** making heroic saves.


Legacy Cemented


- The victory was not just about winning; it was about honoring a rich footballing tradition and cementing Lionel Messi's legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

- The team's unity, skill, and spirit captured the hearts of millions, making their journey a source of pride for Argentina and football lovers everywhere.




Friday, November 15, 2024

Picture of the week - Doha Metro - photo competition

 

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Mild weather by night . - Doha

 

Rhythmic Gymnastics International Championship "Sky Grace 2024 20- 22 November

 

Thursday, November 07, 2024

A breakfast in a Café in Shibuya in Japan

 



 Good morning, everyone! Stumbled upon this gem of a video on X: a mesmerizing showcase of breakfast-making in Japan. They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who knew it could be an art form? Perfect inspiration to make your Friday morning a little more delicious (and maybe give your toast some competition). Enjoy

urgent need of O positive and O negative blood - Qatar National Blood Donation Center

 

Tuesday, November 05, 2024

Benchlal Exhibition - National Museum of Qatar

 



 Benchlal Exhibition: An Immortal Monument “Art That Transcends Time”

     November 1, 2024 - January 18, 2025


This exhibition showcases a collection of haute couture dresses inspired by the Qatari environment and landscape.


It highlights pioneering designer creations and celebrates Arab designs, along with regional support and collaboration.




November 6 and 7, 2024, will be official holidays

The Amiri Diwan announces that in celebration of the national unity demonstration witnessed by the State of Qatar, represented by the general referendum on the draft constitutional amendments to the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar, it has been decided that Wednesday and Thursday, November 6 and 7, 2024, will be official holidays.




New Salata park 2024




    The New Salata Park in Doha is a cozy, family-friendly oasis nestled in the New Salata area. Though small, it offers a safe, fenced environment with guards, a few resident cats, and lush greenery that brings life to the space. One unique advantage is its slightly lower humidity during summer months compared to areas closer to the sea, making it a bit more comfortable even on Doha’s hottest days.





The park features charming gazebos for shaded relaxation, a well-maintained playground, and gentle, sloping hills that are perfect for little ones to roll, ride their trikes, or simply run up and down. Parents have observed that this natural playtime setting can stimulate speech in some toddlers—a concept supported by early childhood development experts, and something that has worked for many families.


While the park does have basic restroom facilities, it lacks a buffet or food vendors. However, 03 Mall is just a 10-minute walk away. Located on Al Shagub Street, it offers a 24-hour SPAR supermarket, cafes, restaurants, and various retail outlets, perfect for grabbing snacks and refreshments.







 




Additionally, for families interested in educational activities, the Skills Development Centre is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the park. It offers a variety of courses to engage children and support their learning journey.

Park Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy its amenities throughout the day and into the evening.







Monday, November 04, 2024

Quincy Jones died at the age of 91 - bukra song

 


The 91-year-old Quincy Jones passed away. In the Arab world, this song has made him famous.

Parks in qatar 2024 no 1 - Al Bidda Park

 The refreshing weather in Doha is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, and Al Bidda Park is a wonderful spot for this! Nestled between the Gulf Interchange and stretching through central Doha, it’s an inviting escape filled with open spaces, shaded areas, and walking paths. Over the past week, I’ve explored it from different angles, with most of my visits starting from the Gulf Interchange, leading straight into the park’s heart. 


The good news? If you’re approaching from Al Sadd or Bin Mahmoud, reaching the park is straightforward and safe. The pedestrian bridge over the Alkhaleej street makes crossing easy, and the traffic lights are fully functional, helping drivers respect pedestrian crossings—a small but impactful addition to the urban life.


Unfortunately, the pedestrian bridge's lift is currently out of service, which can be an inconvenience for those needing accessibility support. Still, Al Bidda Park remains a serene, green escape with just a few hurdles along the way!



NO SCHOOL tomorrow, Tuesday, November 5, 2024,

"To enhance active participation in decision-making, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education announces that tomorrow, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, will be a holiday for all public and private schools in the State of Qatar, including academic and administrative staff in schools. This directive does not apply to universities and higher education institutions in the country. " translation by chatgpt











expat Qatar