Qatari Artist Wins Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest Highlighting Cultural Bonds

Emerging Qatari artist Moza al-Marri won first prize in the 2025 Japan-Qatar Illustration Contest with her piece "Qahwa wa Chai – Coffee and Tea," highlighting the shared cultural values of hospitality between Qatar and Japan, and noting the growing popularity of Japanese anime culture among Qatari youth as a bridge for cultural exchange. The General Authority of Customs of Qatar outlines duty-exemption policies for travelers, parcels, and household goods, specifying conditions under which personal items can be brought into Qatar without customs duties, with distinctions based on residency and citizenship status. Milaha, a Qatari maritime and logistics company, reported significant financial growth in 2025, including a 15% increase in operating revenues and net profit, driven by higher freight rates and expansion in container shipping services. For tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences in Qatar beyond its modern skyline, highlights include Souq Waqif, with its traditional marketplace atmosphere, and the Museum of Islamic Art, showcasing over 1,400 years of Islamic history and art, both emblematic of Qatar's rich heritage and hospitality.