Doha: Qatar’s tourism sector witnessed significant growth in 2024, as highlighted by Al-Raya newspaper, with a 25% increase in visitors compared to the previous year. The country welcomed 5,076,640 tourists, reflecting its rising prominence on the global tourism map. This growth is attributed to Qatar’s rich attractions and strategic investments, which have also led to a 38% increase in spending,

NUKU’ALOFA: An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1 struck the eastern region of the Tonga islands in the South Pacific, as reported on Thursday. The tremor, recorded by the US Geological Survey, did not result in any casualties or significant property damage, though it was felt in the area. According to Qatar News Agency, the earthquake’s epicenter was situated 134

JERUSALEM: Dozens of colonists, led by extremist Israeli rabbi Yehuda Glick, made an incursion into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, accompanied by the occupation police, in a move that has heightened tensions in the region. The group entered through the Mughrabi Gate, engaging in provocative tours and performing Talmudic rituals within the courtyards of the sacred site. According to Qatar News

MOSCOW: The Russian Defense Ministry announced that 13 Ukrainian drones were intercepted and destroyed overnight by air defense systems across several Russian regions, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two countries. According to Qatar News Agency, the drones were shot down over multiple regions, with specific interceptions reported in Voronezh, Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk, and Kaluga. The ministry detailed that one drone

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot engaged in a phone call to discuss the ongoing developments in Syria and Lebanon, focusing on humanitarian efforts and political stability. According to Qatar News Agency, the conversation centered on the situation in Syria, with Blinken emphasizing the necessity of supporting the Syrian population in their pursuit

DAMASCUS: A Qatari Armed Forces airplane arrived at Damascus International Airport, delivering 31 tons of food supplies and ambulances provided by the Qatar Fund for Development Fund (QFFD). This delivery marks another effort by Qatar to assist the Syrian population through its air bridge initiative. According to Qatar News Agency, this is the second Qatari aircraft to land at the

DOHA: The Department of Meteorology has issued a warning for strong winds and high seas, effective tonight until 6:00 a.m. on Friday. The department’s daily weather report indicates cold conditions with some cloudiness inshore, while offshore areas may experience scattered clouds and a chance of rain in the northern regions. According to Qatar News Agency, the wind inshore is expected

TUNIS: Tunisian authorities have successfully rescued 83 migrants and recovered 27 bodies after two boats carrying illegal migrants sank near Kerkennah Island in the Sfax governorate. The incident underscores the perilous journey many undertake in hopes of reaching Europe. According to Qatar News Agency, Ziad Al Sidiri, the Director of Civil Protection in Sfax, stated in a press release that