Creative Ways To Display A Vinyl Record Collection

Qatar Automobiles Company, the authorized general distributor of Mitsubishi Motors in Qatar, officially launched the all-new Mitsubishi XFORCE (also known as the Outlander Sport in some markets) during a grand ceremony at the Intercontinental Hotel Doha. This makes Qatar one of the key markets for the introduction of this new model from the renowned brand.

The event was attended by Kano Daichi, Manager GCC Markets at Mitsubishi Motors Corporation; Walid Rashed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors Middle East & Africa; Frank Zauner, General Manager of Qatar Automobiles Company; QAC management along with special guests, media representatives, and influencers.

Frank Zauner, General Manager, Qatar Automobiles Company said: “The launch of the all-new XFORCE aligns perfectly with Qatar Automobiles Company and Mitsubishi Motors’ strategy to introduce an elegant, sporty, and modern vehicle to the market, designed to meet the expectations of the new generation, and equipped with the latest technology and features. I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our customers and community by providing reliable, cutting-edge vehicles that meet their daily needs. We are equally committed to delivering exceptional after-sales services, ensuring that every customer’s experience with Mitsubishi is smooth, affordable, and satisfying.”

Commenting on the XFORCE launch in Qatar, Kano Daichi, Manager GCC Markets at Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, said: “We are excited to bring the all-new XFORCE to Qatar. It will resonate well with young families, professionals, and adventurers who are looking for a stylish SUV that complements their active lifestyles. It is for the bold, adventurous, and those who demand more and are not afraid to challenge boundaries.”

Walid Rashed, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors Middle East & Africa said: “We are proud to launch the all-new XFORCE in Qatar and the Middle East which will redefine the standards of the compact SUV segment. Its elegant and bold design, as well as cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities will make it an ideal choice of the new generations.”

The stylish, yet bold compact SUV is designed based on the concept of “best-suited buddy for an exciting lifestyle” to bring excitement, comfort, and practicality to customers’ everyday lives.

The XFORCE is developed to answer the needs of young families, active individuals, and modern adventurers seeking a vehicle that seamlessly blends style, reliability, versatility, and cutting-edge technology to better match their dynamic lifestyles.

Aiming to redefine the standards in the compact SUV segment, the XFORCE features a bold, elegant design, a wide range of luxurious amenities, a spacious interior, and a powerful 1.5-liter MIVEC engine.

A style that Draws Attention

The exterior design of the all-new XFORCE oozes excitement and sophistication from every angle thanks to its forward-thinking, futuristic design. Designed based on the Silky and Solid concept, the compact SUV draws attention wherever it goes, thereby promoting a trendsetter lifestyle. The new generation dynamic shield with honeycomb accents as well as Mitsubishi Motors’ iconic T-shaped LED headlights and taillights, create a sporty look with a sense of depth. The XFORCE also comes with two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels, thereby making a powerful statement on the road.

While the exterior styling looks bold and sporty, drivers will be greeted by a luxurious interior with higher-quality materials and cutting-edge technologies. In a first for Mitsubishi Motors, a mélange fabric is used for the padding of the instrument panel, creating a sense of enclosure by covering everything up to the door trim. The modern cockpit also sports a 12.3-inch Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an 8-inch Digital Driver Display to put information and entertainment at your fingertips.

Other key interior highlights include dual-zone climate control with rear and driver knee air vents, wireless smartphone charging, USB Type A & C ports in the rear console, synthetic leather seats with an anti-rise temperature function, hands-free power tailgate, and Nanoe™ X air purifier, all of which ensure a comfortable and connected ride.

On the safety front, XFORCE is engineered with a plethora of driver-assistance systems and advanced safety features, including six airbags, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), an electric parking brake with an auto hold function, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), thereby providing peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.

Performance Designed for Our Region and Built for Adventure

Under the hood, the all-new XFORCE debuts with a 1.5-liter MIVEC responsive engine that combines efficiency with power. The four-cylinder engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to ensure an ideal balance between fuel efficiency and driving power. The innovative transmission also features a “Ds” function (Downshift and Sporty) to enhance the driving force and engine braking, thereby ensuring a confident and sporty driving experience.

The XFORCE has four drive modes—Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud. These four drive modes allow you to adjust power delivery, traction control, and steering effort for maximum confidence in different driving situations. With its two-tone 18-inch wheels, the XFORCE achieves a class-leading ground clearance of 222 mm, making it the ideal SUV for the Middle East’s challenging off-road terrains.

The all-new XFORCE and the full line up of Mitsubishi cars are available at Qatar Automobiles Company, the authorized general distributor of Mitsubishi Motors in Qatar, in its showroom on Salwa Road in Doha

Sindalah, the luxury island destination and first physical showcase of NEOM, has been unveiled by the NEOM Board of Directors. First announced by His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of the NEOM Board of Directors in December 2022, Sindalah’s opening marks an exciting milestone in NEOM’s progress.

Transforming Sindalah from idea to reality has been the result of an extensive two-year effort, from a 30,000-strong workforce at its peak across four local contracting partners and up to 60 subcontractors. It marks a significant step in realizing the Kingdom’s tourism ambitions under Saudi Vision 2030 and reaffirms NEOM‘s ability to conceive and deliver new and exciting destinations. To celebrate this occasion, Sindalah has welcomed its first wave of invited guests to experience the island’s allure.

Located in the glistening azure waters of the Red Sea, five kilometers off the NEOM coastline in northwest Saudi Arabia, Sindalah is a distinctive, luxury resort destination spread over 840,000 square meters. Ideally positioned 17 hours by sea from key Mediterranean destinations, Sindalah will serve as NEOM’s gateway to the Red Sea, providing easy access for European, Saudi and GCC yacht owners.

Sindalah blends the natural beauty of the island with tech-driven design and architectural excellence. With the island masterfully designed by leading yachting architecture firm, Luca Dini, Sindalah offers world-class restaurants, hotels, venues and experiences. Set to welcome up to 2,400 guests per day by 2028, the island will also generate around 3,500 jobs, helping to drive the ongoing development of the Kingdom’s thriving hospitality and tourism industries, thereby supporting diversification of the economy in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Nadhmi Al-Nasr, Chief Executive Officer, NEOM, said: “NEOM is committed to supporting the Kingdom’s new era of luxury tourism, with the opening of Sindalah. The realization of this landmark destination, the gateway to the Red Sea, is due to the visionary leadership of His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman and Saudi Vision 2030. This is a proud chapter in the NEOM story and we are excited to achieve more of our ambitious goals, with the continued support of His Royal Highness. NEOM’s inaugural destination offers visitors a ‘first glimpse’ of what the future holds for our extensive portfolio of destinations and developments.”

Boasting an impressive marine ecosystem, Sindalah’s surrounding waters are home to 1,100 species of fish – 45 of which are unique to NEOM waters, in addition to more than 300 coral species. In line with NEOM’s commitment to sustainability and conservation, preservation of Sindalah’s natural marine habitat has been central to the island’s development, and guests are invited to dive beneath the surface to explore its wonders for themselves.

With its strategic location and year-round pleasant climate, Sindalah’s state-of-the-art, 86-berth marina will usher in a new season of sailing. The Sindalah Yacht Club, with interiors expertly designed by Stefano Ricci, sits as the marina’s focal point and invites yachting guests, owners and crew to enjoy its amenities. Docking facilities, additional offshore buoys for super yachts and a full suite of yacht management services are also available.

Sindalah combines world-class hospitality, fine dining and curated experiences in one all-encompassing destination. The Village and Promenade are the beating heart of the island’s entertainment and social zones, home to 38 culinary offerings backed by world-renowned chefs, as well as daytime eateries, late-night venues and 36 luxury retail outlets. The Beach Club offers poolside lounging by day and mesmerizing music experiences by night, while the beachfront Golf Club provides an elevated golfing experience for all abilities. With its world-class 6,474-yard (5,920-meter) par 70 course, the Golf Club will offer 18 teeing points and two unique nine-hole experiences.

Future guests will choose their accommodation preferences from a range of breathtaking properties, offering 440 rooms and 88 villas, as well as 218 luxury serviced apartments. Information regarding bookings will be made available through NEOM’s tourism channels soon.

Feeling depressed when the stock market is down? You have plenty of company. According to a recent study, when stock prices fall, the number of antidepressant prescriptions rises.

The researchers examined the connection by first creating local stock indexes, combining companies with headquarters in the same state. Academic research has shown that investors tend to own more local stocks in their portfolios, either because of employee-stock-ownership plans or because they have more familiarity with those companies.

The researchers then looked at about 300 metropolitan statistical areas, which are regions encompassing a city with 50,000 people and the surrounding towns, tracking changes in local stock prices and the number of antidepressant prescriptions in each area over a two-year period. They found that when local stock prices dropped about 12.8% over a two-week period, antidepressant prescriptions increased 0.42% on average. A similar relationship was seen in smaller stock-price drops as well. When local stock prices fell by about 6.4%, antidepressant prescriptions increased about 0.21%.

Older and sadder

“Our findings suggest that as the stock market declines, more people experience stress and anxiety, leading to an increase in prescriptions for antidepressants,” says Chang Liu , an assistant professor at Ball State University’s Miller College of Business in Muncie, Ind., and one of the paper’s co-authors. The analysis controlled for other factors that could influence antidepressant usage, like unemployment rates or the season.

In a comparison of age groups, those aged 46 to 55 were the most likely to get antidepressant prescriptions when local stocks dropped.

“People in this age group may be more sensitive to changes in their portfolio compared with a younger cohort, who are further from retirement, and older cohorts who may own less stocks and more bonds since they are nearing retirement,” says Maoyong Fan , a professor at Ball State University and co-author of the study.

Other correlations

When the authors looked at demand for psychotherapy during periods of declining stock prices their findings were similar. When local stock prices dropped by about 12.8% over a two-week period, the number of psychotherapy visits billed to insurance providers increased by about 0.32%. They also found a correlation between local stock returns and certain illnesses associated with depression, such as insomnia, peptic ulcer, abdominal pain, substance abuse and myocardial infarction. But when the authors looked at other insurance claims, like antibiotics prescriptions, they found no relationship with changes in local stock prices.

By contrast, for periods when stocks rise, the authors didn’t see a drop in psychological interventions. They found no statistical relationship between rising local stock prices and the number of antidepressant prescriptions, for example, which the authors believe makes sense.

“Once a patient is prescribed an antidepressant, it’s unlikely that a psychiatrist would stop antidepressant prescriptions immediately,” says Liu.

One practical implication of the study, Liu adds, is that investors should be aware of their emotional state when the market dips before they make investment decisions.

When Abby Tennenbaum, 44, and her husband, Ross Tennenbaum , 46, purchased a $2.1 million vacation property in 2021 about 80 miles southeast of Seattle in the mountain resort community of Suncadia, Washington, they encouraged their two young daughters to collaborate with the family’s interior designer, Emily LaMarque, on decorating the house. The 3,143-square-foot, five-bedroom home had a budget of $500,000 for furnishings and decorating.

The Tennenbaum sisters—Ella, 12, and Edie, 8—gave LaMarque feedback on paint colours and wallpaper patterns, but they also expressed other specific preferences. They weren’t into insect art (though butterflies were okay).

They thought it would be neat to have indoor swings—which the house now has on all three of its levels. And Edie, who has always loved bunk beds, worked with LaMarque to design a bunk room, which is both sisters’ favourite space. “It looks so good and it’s so cool,” Edie says of the sleeping spot that has four full-sized beds.

The girls even convinced their parents, Abby and Ross Tennenbaum, that the kitchen needed a snow cone machine. Abby is an occupational therapist turned stay-at-home mother and Ross is the CFO of Avalara, a tax software company.

Children have long contributed thoughts on their bedroom designs: Pink! Blue! Princesses! Rocket ships! But now they are driving interior decisions around the house. “We’ve always talked with our clients’ children,” says Lynn Stone, co-founder of Hunter Carson Design, which is based in Manhattan Beach, California. “What we are seeing now is something different: Now we expect the kids to get involved.”

Stone and her co-founder, Mandy Gregory, routinely receive emails, Pinterest boards, Instagram messages and TikToks from their clients’ mini-mes. “Kids send us texts if they are out shopping, saying, ‘Do you think this will work in our room?’” Stone says. “One client’s daughter said, ‘Please, don’t meet with Lynn and Mandy without me, and if you do, FaceTime me!’”

A sampling of product requests from their pint-sized clients include CB2’s Goop-designed Gwyneth Boucle Swivel Chair (“Teens love this chair,” Stone says), Gucci wallpaper, Bella Notte handmade linens, customised neon signs, shelves to show off Lego collections and bedroom mini fridges (“Parents often say no to mini fridges,” Stone says). One teenager emailed Stone a screenshot of a Sotheby’s auction artwork in the $20,000 range that she wanted for her bedroom. Stone told her, “I too love this, but I don’t see it making its way into either of our houses.”

In 2021, Stone and Gregory were hired by stay-at-home mom Neeraj Rotondo, 56, to update her son’s bedroom and bathroom in the roughly 5,000-square-foot, five-bedroom Manhattan Beach house where Rotondo’s family had lived for more than a decade. The Mediterranean-style house is currently estimated at $6.2 million, according to Redfin. Rotondo’s son, Sam, who was 14-years-old at the time, gave his opinions: He wanted his room to have a couch-like bed, framed N.B.A. jersey artwork and a space to play card games with friends. The bedroom cost $8,000 and the bathroom was $23,000.

While that project was underway, Neeraj Rotondo’s two daughters, Leena and Kayla Rotondo, who were teenagers, convinced their mother that the family’s unused media room needed a refresh. “It was brown and navy with reclining chairs and super not welcoming,” says Kayla, 19.

Kayla was inspired by a Pinterest photo of reality star Khloé Kardashian ’s theatre room, especially its long, glamorous cream-coloured couch. Stone and Gregory outfitted the Rotondos’ screening room with a custom-built daybed with grey velvet cushioning, floating lounge chairs, fluffy cream pillows and faux fur blankets, shimmery grasscloth wallpaper, hand-blown glass sconces and candy jars. It cost $42,000.

“It was soooo fun that we were young and we got to bring our idea to life,” says Leena, 20. Her sister agrees. “It feels like the only room in the house that was just for me and Leena,” Kayla says. “It wasn’t anyone’s vision but ours.”

Savannah, Georgia-based Khoi Vo , who is the CEO of the American Society of Interior Designers, thinks it’s “wonderful” that youngsters are interested in home design, which gives family members a forum for communicating with each other and thinking about how they live together. “As a dad to a pre-teen, I think any chance a parent can get to engage in dialogue with their kids is an opportunity,” says Vo.

Vo emphasises that families need to recognise an interior design project’s constraints, whether it’s money, time, space, scale or all of the above. “A child might say, ‘I want a turret that I can shoot an arrow out of and a moat with alligators,” he says, noting that, yes, of course it’s okay to say no to the castle.

“If you’re designing a space just for you—you’re the only one who is going to use it—you don’t need to seek your 12-year-old son’s opinion,” Vo says. When it comes to the living room, though, Vo says it’s fine to talk as a family about it—but, that doesn’t mean the son needs the wall of television screens he wants for sports night.

Houston interior designer David Euscher thinks the pandemic made everyone become more aware of how they live in their own environments and how spaces influence behaviour. “Even without that event,” he says, “young people look for ways to exercise some control over their lives, and influencing their parents’ design choices at home is one way to do it,” he says.

In 2022, Wendy Becktold, 53, of Berkeley, Calif., hired local interior designer Nureed Saeed, owner of Nu Interiors, to design a bedroom for her son, Simon. Wendy Becktold, an editor, and her family moved into a roughly 2,400-square-foot, three bedroom 1922 Craftsman house in 2016, which she and her husband purchased for $1.3 million.

“Since I’m the youngest child, when we moved, I obviously got the smallest room,” says Simon, 16, who has an older sister. “For my furniture, I got hand-me-downs from everyone else. It was little-kid, vandalised furniture all around my room. So I leveraged that, and was like, well, mom, I have the smallest room and the worst furniture. Maybe it would be a good idea to get a little room redo. I guess it worked.”

Saeed created image boards featuring varying furniture and colours and she and Simon talked through the selections. He gravitated toward Midcentury Modern shapes, walnut woods and a colour palette of navy, tan, white and black with a hint of greige.

“Definitely more adult than I would have expected out of a 14-year-old,” Saeed says. As his space morphed into his new one with fresh paint, furniture and lighting, Simon says, “It was surreal to watch it become my room after I’d been speculating about how cool it was going to be.”

Once the bedroom project was complete, Saeed moved onto designing the living room and entryway, where Simon expressed his preferences for modern furniture. “I didn’t want to overstep my role as the youngest child,” he says, “but I did definitely say, ‘This is cool,’ ‘This is a good idea,’ ‘I’m not as keen on these things, like a couch.’”

The house project had limits. “We made careful considerations for our interior design selections because it’s quite an investment,” Wendy Becktold says. The bedroom project, for example, cost close to $10,000, but she says it was worth it, as the new space can be useful even after Simon leaves the nest someday.

The Becktolds’ project is an example of how Saeed thinks there has been a societal shift in how children are regarded today. “We view them as their own humans who, even at young ages, their opinions are worth honouring and listening to,” she says.

“It’s not like children sit down buttoned-up for a kick off meeting, but at some point, parents are always like: My kids really like this thing but I don’t know how to integrate it,” says Los Angeles-based Emily LaMarque, founder of an eponymous firm, who designed the Tennenbaum family’s house in Washington.

LaMarque says her recent clients’ offspring often fall into two camps: those who are inspired by nature or music. “There’s a lot of Taylor Swift,” she says, noting that for music fans, it’s less about capturing a specific musician’s aesthetic and more about exuding a vibe—though LaMarque will coordinate album cover posters with other artwork and decor.

One 10-year-old gave LaMarque four iterations of her bedroom floor plan. “Specifically, she said ‘I want a pale wood bed here. I want two nightstands. I want my two guitars to go here. I want a credenza—and I want a record player on it so it needs to be deep enough and I want plants on it.’”

LaMarque riffed back and forth with one 13-year-old drama lover, whose bedroom they decided to outfit with a nook that has curtains that can be tied back so the girl could have a theatre area. LaMarque says, “when she got her new bedding that she had helped pick out, she was literally jumping up and down.”

As European hot spots become overcrowded , travellers are digging deeper to find those less-populated but still brag-worthy locations. Greenland, moving up the list, is bracing for its new popularity.

Aria Varasteh has been to 69 countries, including almost all of Europe. He now wants to visit more remote places and avoid spots swarmed by tourists—starting with Greenland.

“I want a taste of something different,” said the 34-year-old founder of a consulting firm serving clients in the Washington, D.C., area.

He originally planned to go to Nuuk, the island’s capital, this fall via out-of-the-way connections, given there wasn’t a nonstop flight from the U.S. But this month United Airlines announced a nonstop, four-hour flight from Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey to Nuuk. The route, beginning next summer, is a first for a U.S. airline, according to Greenland tourism officials.

It marks a significant milestone in the territory’s push for more international visitors. Airlines ran flights with a combined 55,000 seats to Greenland from April to August of this year, says Jens Lauridsen, chief executive officer of Greenland Airports. That figure will nearly double next year in the same period, he says, to about 105,000 seats.

The possible coming surge of travellers also presents a challenge for a vast island of 56,000 people as nearby destinations from Iceland to Spain grapple with the consequences of over tourism.

Greenlandic officials say they have watched closely and made deliberate efforts to slowly scale up their plans for visitors. An investment north of $700 million will yield three new airports, the first of which will open next month in Nuuk.

“It’s the rumbling before the herd is coming,” says Mads Mitchell, general manager of Hotel Nordbo, a 67-room property in Nuuk. The owner of his property is considering adding 50 more rooms to meet demand in the coming years.

Mitchell has recently met with travel agents from Brooklyn, N.Y., South Korea and China. He says he welcomes new tourists, but fears tourism will grow too quickly.

“Like in Barcelona, you get tired of tourists, because it’s too much and it pushes out the locals, that is my concern,” he says. “So it’s finding this balance of like showing the love for Greenland and showing the amazing possibilities, but not getting too much too fast.”

Greenland’s buildup

Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark more than three times the size of Texas. Tourists travel by boat or small aircraft when venturing to different regions—virtually no roads connect towns or settlements.

Greenland decided to invest in airport infrastructure in 2018 as part of an effort to expand tourism and its role in the economy, which is largely dependent on fishing and subsidies from Denmark. In the coming years, airports in Ilulissat and Qaqortoq, areas known for their scenic fjords, will open.

One narrow-body flight, like what United plans, will generate $200,000 in spending, including hotels, tours and other purchases, Lauridsen says. He calls it a “very significant economic impact.”

In 2023, foreign tourism brought a total of over $270 million to Greenland’s economy, according to Visit Greenland, the tourism and marketing arm owned by the government. Expedition cruises visit the territory, as well as adventure tours.

United will fly twice weekly to Nuuk on its 737 MAX 8, which will seat 166 passengers, starting in June .

“We look for new destinations, we look for hot destinations and destinations, most importantly, we can make money in,” Andrew Nocella , United’s chief commercial officer, said in the company’s earnings call earlier in October.

On the runway

Greenland has looked to nearby Iceland to learn from its experiences with tourism, says Air Greenland Group CEO Jacob Nitter Sørensen. Tiny Iceland still has about seven times the population of its western neighbour.

Nuuk’s new airport will become the new trans-Atlantic hub for Air Greenland, the national carrier. It flies to 14 airports and 46 heliports across the territory.

“Of course, there are discussions about avoiding mass tourism. But right now, I think there is a natural limit in terms of the receiving capacity,” Nitter says.

Air Greenland doesn’t fly nonstop from the U.S. because there isn’t currently enough space to accommodate all travellers in hotels, Nitter says. Air Greenland is building a new hotel in Ilulissat to increase capacity when the airport opens.

Nuuk has just over 550 hotel rooms, according to government documents. A tourism analysis published by Visit Greenland predicts there could be a shortage in rooms beginning in 2027. Most U.S. visitors will stay four to 10 nights, according to traveler sentiment data from Visit Greenland.

As travel picks up, visitors should expect more changes. Officials expect to pass new legislation that would further regulate tourism in time for the 2025 season. Rules on zoning would give local communities the power to limit tourism when needed, says Naaja H. Nathanielsen, minister for business, trade, raw materials, justice and gender equality.

Areas in a so-called red zone would ban tour operators. In northern Greenland, traditional hunting takes place at certain times of year and requires silence, which doesn’t work with cruise ships coming in, Nathanielsen says.

Part of the proposal would require tour operators to be locally based to ensure they pay taxes in Greenland and so that tourists receive local knowledge of the culture. Nathanielsen also plans to introduce a proposal to govern cruise tourism to ensure more travelers stay and eat locally, rather than just walk around for a few hours and grab a cup of coffee, she says.

Public sentiment has remained in favour of tourism as visitor arrivals have increased, Nathanielsen says.

—Roshan Fernandez contributed to this article.

Nestled in the dynamic heart of Riyadh, Hilton Riyadh Olaya announced the opening of eforea Spa & Health Club, a bespoke wellness haven designed to cater to the evolving needs of a new generation of travellers and those seeking healthier lifestyles. This sanctuary provides an unparalleled setting for wellness and rejuvenation, offering an exceptional blend of traditional and innovative spa treatments inspired by the world’s most renowned spa cultures.

A serene retreat from the bustling city life, eforea Spa & Health Club brings Hilton’s globally renowned spa concept to Riyadh, offering a transformative journey through a range of meticulously crafted treatments. Guests are encouraged to ‘emerge brighter’ from an immersive selection of restorative and energising experiences. Centered around the Essentials Journey and the signature Escape Journey, each path is meticulously tailored to meet individual wellness needs. Complementing these are bespoke Enhancements—targeted mini-treatments that enrich the primary services or can be enjoyed independently. The spa also boasts luxurious amenities, including an infinity pool and an experience shower, alongside a comprehensive suite of treatments such as baths, massages, body scrubs, and wraps.

Stephen Reiter, General Manager of Hilton Riyadh Olaya, stated, “Our eforea Spa & Health Club embodies a holistic approach to wellness, offering a serene escape where guests can indulge in personalized and thoughtful wellness experiences. Every aspect of eforea has been meticulously designed to ensure it serves as an unparalleled retreat, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling renewed, uplifted, and refreshed.”

The spa’s comprehensive offerings, starting with the Essentials Journey, feature a variety of facials such as the Lumiere Brightening Facial, which revitalizes the complexion with vitamin C and skin-brightening agents for a radiant finish, and the Collagen Boost Facial, aimed at reducing fine lines with potent anti-ageing formulations. The Deep Tissue Massage alleviates deep-seated tension, enhancing physical harmony, while the Tropical Renewal Ritual provides a cleansing and nourishing experience with a luxurious blend of sugar and coconut scrub enriched with monoi fruit essence, followed by a hydrating body wrap for ultimate relaxation.

The signature Escape Journeys offer a range of experiences to help guests unwind, including the Moroccan Hammam and Royal Hammam, both crafted to purify and nourish the body. The exclusive Emerge Brighter Package combines a tropical renewal ritual, personalized massage, and prodige oxygen facial to deliver radiant relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, targeted Journey Enhancements provide specialized massages for the head & face, shoulders, neck & scalp, and feet, each tailored to enhance the guest’s overall spa experience.

As Hilton Riyadh Olaya continues to redefine luxury and hospitality in the region, the addition of eforea Spa & Health Club further cements the hotel as a pinnacle of wellness. This new facility not only underscores the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service and luxury but also offers guests a distinctive space to rediscover their sense of well-being in a tranquil setting.

Porsche has presented its Formula E car for the next two seasons: the new Porsche 99X Electric. The all-electric open-wheel racer complies with the regulations for the updated third generation of Formula E cars, called GEN3 Evo, and features all-round improved Porsche in-house developments.

The new Porsche 99X Electric made its debut online on 24 October, in a film with Bruno Correia, the Formula E safety car driver and GEN3 Evo development driver. The key technical innovations comprise activation of front wheel drive, higher grip tires, and a modified front wing. World Champion Pascal Wehrlein and António Félix da Costa, last season’s driver with the most wins, retain their positions as the drivers for the works TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team. The two Andretti Formula E customer cars will have former World Champion Jake Dennis, and the new Porsche works driver Nico Müller at the wheels.

Refined Porsche in-house developments

The evolution model inherits Porsche’s most successful formula sports car to date: In its GEN3 version, the Porsche 99X Electric won the drivers’ world championship two years in a row – with Dennis in 2022/2023, and with Wehrlein in 2023/2024. The concept remains the same: Per the regulations, the available energy is restricted. This forces the teams and their drivers to optimise the efficiency of the cars across all areas. Components developed by the manufacturer were allowed to be changed for the GEN3 Evo. Porsche’s development department in Weissach took the opportunity to exploit the optimisation potential identified over the past two seasons – particularly in terms of drive. The homologation of the manufacturer components is valid for two seasons once again. The fourth car generation, GEN4, is set to be introduced for Season 13 (2026/2027).

New features – GEN3 Evo

The key technical innovations of the GEN3 Evo relate to the standardized hardware of all teams and manufacturers taking part.

From now on, front-wheel drive may be engaged in the qualifying duels, during race starts, and during Attack Mode. This gives the cars temporary all-wheel drive, enabling the Porsche 99X Electric to accelerate to 100 km/h in around two seconds. Making the engagement of front-wheel drive as efficient as possible represents another technical challenge, with the lessons learned also benefitting Porsche’s Road cars.

Higher performance tires from exclusive supplier Hankook will help the Formula E cars reach even higher speeds in the new season. Each car will still only have two sets of tires available per race weekend (three sets for double headers). The tire profile makes the tires suitable for both dry and wet conditions.

The evolution model is primarily recognizable by its modified front wing. The new form should make it more stable, enabling it to withstand contact better. Further modifications to the cladding were made behind the roll bar and in front of the rear wheels.

Colors based on the product spearhead

Purple Sky Metallic and Shade Green Metallic – these are the new colors on the cladding of the Porsche 99X Electric. These were the colors that Porsche used to present the new spearhead of its electric sports cars for the road at the start of the year: the Taycan Turbo GT, the most powerful production car the brand has ever built. The shades of purple and green replace the traditional combination of black, white and red. They symbolise the technology transfer from motorsport to production. The colour change also represents electrification and Porsche’s pioneering spirit: The aim being to also visually express the company’s innovative strength in the progressive Formula E.

Next up

The TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team and Andretti Formula E will take part in Formula E’s official pre-season testing in Valencia, Spain (4 to 7 November). In addition to Wehrlein and da Costa, the two female drivers Gabriela Jílková and Marta García from Czechia and Spain will be taking the wheel of the two works Porsches in Valencia.

Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President Porsche Motorsport: “We build future sports cars, so we also want our appearance to be progressive. The young and innovative Formula E is an excellent platform for promoting our electric production sports cars. The preparation for the season thus far fills me with confidence that not only do we look good, but we can also build on the successes of last season. The bar has been set high: With Pascal as the World Champion, we are at the pinnacle of Porsche’s formula racing history to date.”

Florian Modlinger, Director Factory Motorsport Formula E: “The biggest development task was and is the implementation of the temporary all-wheel drive. Since the hardware was already available for GEN3, a huge amount of work has gone into aligning the software. On the one hand we want to maximise acceleration and cornering speeds with the all-wheel drive. On the other hand, the goal is to not consume too much energy and to keep the car balance to the liking of the drivers. A task that is also relevant for our sports cars for the road.”

Pascal Wehrlein, Porsche works driver: “The new Porsche 99X Electric is a very cool car. I love the colors so much that I designed my helmet the same way. It also goes without saying that I am proud to now have number 1 on the nose of my car. I want to defend my title and the preparations for the new season are going according to plan.”

António Félix da Costa, Porsche works driver: “We are excited to see where we are at. The all-wheel drive, the new tires, and the comprehensive overhaul of our own components may shake things up a bit, even though there aren’t any major changes to the regulations. I’m optimistic and am pleased that we will be lining up in São Paulo again at the beginning of December. Hopefully the fans will love our new colors.”

Technical data – Porsche 99X Electric (GEN3 Evo)

Drive power

• Normal operation: 300 kW (408 hp)
• Attack Mode, qualifying duels: 350 kW (476 hp)

Power transmission

• Normal operation: rear
• Attack Mode, qualifying duels, race starts: all-wheel drive

Acceleration

• 0–100 km/h: approx. 2.0 s

Energy recovery

• Up to 600 kW recuperation power (brake energy recovery)
• Approx. 50 % of the drive energy per race comes from brake energy recovery

Brakes

• Regenerative braking system: up to 250 kW electric braking power on the front axle, up to 350 kW on the rear axle
• Additional deceleration through friction brakes on the front axle (“Brake by Wire” system)
• Front brake disc outer diameter: 258 mm
• Friction brakes on the rear axle only active in an emergency (if recuperation fails)

Tires

• Profiled Hankook iON Race for dry and wet conditions
• 2 sets per race weekend and per vehicle (3 for double headers)

Lithium-ion battery

• Supplied standard component
• Usable storage capacity: 38.5 kWh
• Weight: 285 kg

CCS charging system (Combined Charging System)

• Designed for extremely fast charging with up to 600 kW charging power

Weight and dimensions

• Weight: 862 kg including driver
• Length: 5016 mm, width: 1700 mm, height: 1023 mm
• Wheelbase: 2970 mm
• Ground clearance: up to 65 mm
• Front track: 1440 mm
• Rear track: 1380 mm

Key in-house developments

Pulse inverter, electric motor, gearbox, differential, drive shafts and other drive components on the rear axle as well as cooling, support and suspension components on the rear axle, operating software

Key standard components

Chassis and body, wheels and tires, drive, cooling and suspension components on the front axle, accumulator

Porsche in Formula E

Porsche contests its sixth Formula E season in 2024/2025. In addition to the works-run TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team, the American customer outfit Andretti Formula E competes with the Porsche 99X Electric.

October 22 marked a new milestone in aviation history as Qatar Airways operated the world’s first Boeing 777 aircraft equipped with Starlink technology on its first flight from Doha to London. This groundbreaking achievement underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to technological advancement and enhances its reputation as the World’s Best Airline, as recognized by Skytrax in 2024.

As the largest and first airline in the MENA region to integrate Starlink’s ultra-high-speed, low-latency internet, Qatar Airways is setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity. The service is complimentary for passengers, providing seamless internet access from the moment they board until they disembark.

Initially targeting three Starlink-equipped aircraft, Qatar Airways has announced plans to introduce 12 Boeing 777-300s with this innovative service by the end of 2024. Moreover, the airline aims to roll out Starlink across its entire Boeing 777 fleet by 2025, a full year ahead of its original schedule. The Airbus A350 fleet will follow suit in the summer of 2025, further demonstrating the airline’s dedication to improving the passenger experience.

Starlink, engineered by SpaceX, offers passengers reliable and high-speed internet access, allowing them to stay connected with family and friends, stream their favorite shows, watch live sports, engage in online gaming, or work efficiently at 35,000 feet. With just one click, passengers can enjoy free connectivity throughout their journey.

Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Group CEO of Qatar Airways, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “We are thrilled to launch our first Starlink-equipped flight, proving once again why Qatar Airways is at the forefront of the aviation industry.

“This milestone, paired with our commitment to rapidly roll-out Starlink across our entire modern fleet, demonstrates our relentless pursuit of offering passengers an in-flight experience that transcends the constraints of traditional air travel.

“By providing Starlink reliable, seamless internet on board, we are connecting people to the things they love the most even at 35,000 feet, making every journey with us a memorable one.”

Leveraging advanced satellites with its deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations, Starlink delivers internet access around the world, including over oceans and other remote locations previously unreachable by traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals. “Overtime you’ll find it just gets better and better. This is the minimum and it only gets better from here,” said SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.

The launch of the first Starlink-equipped flight also highlights several industry firsts for Qatar Airways:

• The world’s first Starlink-equipped Boeing 777
• The first Starlink-enabled aircraft for Qatar Airways
• The first Starlink-equipped passenger aircraft in the MENA region
• The first Starlink Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for a Boeing aircraft
• The largest passenger aircraft equipped with Starlink
• The longest-range Starlink-equipped passenger aircraft

This collaboration with Starlink represents a significant advancement for Qatar Airways, enhancing its onboard experience and ensuring that passengers have access to reliable internet connectivity, even over oceans and remote locations previously unreachable by traditional signals.

As Qatar Airways continues to roll out Starlink technology across its fleet, passengers can expect an elevated travel experience that connects them to the world, no matter where they are flying. This innovative leap not only enhances the airline’s already award-winning service but also sets a new benchmark for excellence in the aviation industry.

 invygo, the Middle East’s leading car subscription platform, today announced its latest funding round in the form of a $8 million Series A extension. The funding was provided by STV’s newly launched NICE Fund, which provides non-dilutive capital through a novel equity-based structure, as well as existing investors including Al Rajhi Partners, Arab Bank Ventures, SPV, MEVP, and C5.

With invygo surpassing a $100 million in annualized GMV, the company has strategically focused on achieving industry-leading unit economics and maximizing customer lifetime value (LTV). Growth has been driven largely by the success of its innovative and pioneering “Subscribe to Own” (STO) model, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The company is now nearing profitability, which is expected by the end of FY 2024.

Eslam Hussein, co-founder and CEO of invygo, said: “We are thrilled to welcome STV as a key partner in our journey. With the continued trust and support of our existing investors, we’re positioned to unlock new growth opportunities while keeping profitability firmly within our sights. This round comes after 24 months without external capital, a testament to our commitment to building a financially sustainable business that is reshaping mobility. Our focus remains on driving meaningful impact in customer experience and the broader global mobility landscape from the Middle East.”

By challenging both car ownership and traditional funding models, invygo continues to carve a unique path in the rapidly evolving mobility sector, with a special focus on expanding its “Subscribe to Own” (STO) offering.

Ihsan Jawad, General Partner at STV, said: “We are excited to back invygo as one of our early deals in STV’s newly launched NICE Fund. Saudi Arabia’s economic growth is being driven by rapid technological adoption, and invygo is leading the charge in redefining access to mobility. invygo’s ‘Subscribe to Own’ model has uniquely empowered individuals across Saudi Arabia, providing a seamless and accessible path to vehicle ownership through their mobile devices. We are excited to support invygo as they scale further.”

invygo’s STO model has accelerated the company’s growth, especially in Saudi Arabia, where securing financing for car ownership has historically been a challenge. With Subscribe to Own, Saudi nationals and residents now have a clear, affordable route to mobility, with many using car access to unlock new opportunities.

Pulkit Ganjoo, co-founder and Chief Data Officer at invygo, added: “We’ve seen firsthand how empowering access to mobility can be. With invygo access to mobility and car ownership has been simplified similar to how music, movies and more have reached new audiences through subscriptions. By using data to understand supply, pricing dynamics, and customer preferences, we’ve built a product ecosystem that scales efficiently, ensuring optimal vehicle utilization and supporting our strong unit economics as we move toward profitability.”

Since its founding in 2019, invygo has raised over $22 million from regional and global investors. invygo’s Series A extension closed in June 2024. The company remains focused on building financially sustainable operations, underpinned by industry-leading unit economics and an innovative approach to car ownership.

The Jetour brand, under its exclusive agent “National Motors Supplies,” continues to enhance its outstanding performance in the Saudi market and achieve remarkable success during 2023 and 2024, solidifying its position in the Chinese car market and the SUV segment.

Jetour’s exceptional performance in 2023 marked a significant leap, as it topped the list of the fastest-growing Chinese brands overall in the Kingdom and ranked second in the fastest-growing automotive brands. It also secured first place in sales of Chinese C-segment SUVs this year. This remarkable progress has strengthened Jetour’s position, making it the second-largest brand in the overall automotive sector in the Saudi market.

In 2024, Jetour continues its streak of success, maintaining first place in sales of Chinese C-segment SUVs. The Jetour “Dashing” model has gained widespread popularity among customers, achieving the top spot in Chinese C-segment SUVs up to July of this year. This model stands out for its modern design that combines elegance and innovation, powered by a 1.6-liter turbo engine with four cylinders, delivering 194 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, offering strong performance and high fuel efficiency. Additionally, it features smart technologies that support driver safety.

In the D-segment SUVs, the Jetour T2 model excelled by securing first place among Chinese brands and second place in the Saudi market for this segment. It is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 251 horsepower and 390 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, making the vehicle ideal for various terrains. The T2 also boasts an all-wheel-drive system and XWD system, providing high stability and responsiveness on diverse roads.

Recent findings from a joint study by The Consultants MEA and Kūdi has highlighted the UAE as a beacon for women in business leadership across the Middle East. The study, which surveyed around 400 female leaders across countries like Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, shows the UAE’s pioneering role in empowering women in business, particularly through initiatives that foster female entrepreneurship and leadership.

Nearly half of all start-ups in the UAE are founded or co-led by women, especially in technology and innovation sectors, demonstrating the country’s success in creating an inclusive business landscape. While other GCC nations, such as Oman, are making strides in supporting women, the UAE stands out for its comprehensive policies that elevate women in leadership roles, contributing to its growing reputation as a key player in regional economic development.

Challenges Across Industries

Despite the progress, inequalities remain. The study revealed that while women are increasingly present in manufacturing and technology, they are underrepresented in sectors like banking, consumer goods, retail, and government.

Globally, Nielsen predicts that by 2028, women will control 75% of discretionary spending, making their role in shaping economic trends more critical than ever. However, certain sectors, like advertising, still show a gender imbalance, with only 35% of creative directors in the U.S. being women, reflecting broader international challenges.

Prominent female leaders in the Middle East are addressing these challenges with optimism. Marise Assaf, CEO of Kūdi, emphasized the importance of women in leadership, saying “Empowering women in leadership is essential for fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth in our organizations. Time and again, crises have revealed women as the most empathetic and influential leaders. It’s imperative we translate this reality to the business world, championing women’s advancement. The path ahead is long, but the potential for transformative leadership is immense.”

One persistent challenge highlighted in the study is the gender pay gap. Despite evidence that companies with more women in leadership tend to perform better, women in senior positions still earn significantly less than their male counterparts. This gap reflects broader issues around gender bias and stereotypes, which continue to affect opportunities for career advancement and salary parity.

Commitment to Inclusivity

The study also revealed that 87% of the women leaders surveyed are taking proactive steps to create more inclusive environments within their organizations. This reflects a regional commitment to promoting gender equality in the workplace. In the UAE, this is particularly evident, where women hold 17% of board positions and lead 50% of tech start-ups.

However, reintegration after maternity leave remains a key challenge, with many women struggling to balance family responsibilities with professional demands. This barrier highlights the need for better policies that support working mothers and promote a more flexible work environment.

Najla Al Jamali, CEO of Alternative Energy at OQ, said, “Workplaces need to adapt; there are two competing needs for women: the career and the biological clock. A successful workplace can navigate both, ensuring that one does not sacrifice the other.”

The Future of Women’s Leadership

The findings from this study highlight the increasing influence of women in business leadership, with the UAE standing out as a hub for female empowerment. Other GCC countries are gradually following the UAE’s lead, implementing policies and initiatives designed to create more inclusive business environments for women.

Although significant progress has been made, there is still much work ahead. The rising number of women in leadership, particularly in technology and entrepreneurship, is a promising sign that the region is moving toward greater gender equality. However, challenges such as pay disparities, gender biases, and the difficulties women face when re-entering the workforce after maternity leave must be addressed. Overcoming these barriers will require more than just policy changes—it calls for a broader cultural shift in how workplaces support and value female talent.

The impact of women’s leadership extends far beyond economic gains. Empowered female leaders help create organizational cultures that prioritize empathy, sustainability, work-life balance, diversity, and inclusion. Their leadership nurtures environments where innovation flourishes, and crises are handled with resilience and compassion, further reinforcing the transformative potential of women in leadership roles.

Al Fardan Exchange is delighted to announce its partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the NBE Egyptian Super Cup 2024, serving as the event’s official remittance partner. This collaboration underscores Al Fardan Exchange’s dedication to connecting communities and fostering the love for football across the region.

The Egyptian Super Cup, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, is one of the most highly anticipated football events for the Egyptian community, set to take place in Abu Dhabi this year. Bringing fans and families together to celebrate their shared passion, the tournament symbolizes unity through sport. As the Official Remittance Partner, Al Fardan Exchange will help enhance the experience for football enthusiasts in the country.

Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, CEO of Al Fardan Exchange, commented on the partnership, “Football is a universal language that brings people closer, and we are thrilled to partner with the Egyptian Super Cup 2024. This event is a celebration of passion, teamwork, and community spirit—values that we at Al Fardan Exchange deeply resonate with. Beyond providing financial services, we are committed to creating memorable experiences for our customers, and this partnership reflects that goal.”

Talal Al Hashemi, Executive Director of Events Sector at Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said, “We are honored to count on Al Fardan Exchange as the Official Remittance Partner in our hosting of this year’s edition of the NBE Egyptian Super Cup. Al Fardan Exchange is a long-standing establishment that has earned the trust and devotion of its vast network of happy customers and associates through their values of hard work and dedication to the community. Our partnership is yet another marker of our blueprint to success in organizing this tournament and further indication of Abu Dhabi’s value as a global sports hub.”

Al Fardan Exchange has launched an exciting promotion for its customers to celebrate this partnership. Until 23 October, anyone sending money to Egypt through any Al Fardan Exchange branch or via the AlfaPay app will be entered into a draw to win tickets to the NBE Egyptian Super Cup final. In total, 241 lucky winners will get the chance to experience the final game live, making this football season truly special.

As part of the celebration, the NBE Egyptian Super Cup Trophy Tour took place at select Al Fardan Exchange branches, offering fans and local communities the opportunity to get up close with the prestigious trophy and share in the excitement leading up to the event.

Dr. Majid Al Fayyad, CEO of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center KFSHRC, said, “after our success in implementing the first global full heart transplant using a robot, we are moving to expand the use of robotic surgery in all our operating rooms, and we hope that it will be the first option in the future.”

This came on the sidelines of his participation in a discussion panel on Innovation in healthcare, within the Global Health Exhibition GHE that kicked off in Riyadh.

He pointed out that pioneering robotic surgery was the result of intensive preparatory efforts, including equipping the operating rooms with the latest technologies and training staff thoroughly, while maintaining a delicate balance between bold innovation and strict safety measures, to ensure the achievement of results that enhance patient safety.

Al Fayyad stressed that KFSHRC is working on integrating the latest artificial intelligence applications into its medical operations to enhance the level of accuracy and efficiency, which will push the boundaries of innovation to unprecedented levels in the medical field and allows us to share these experiences globally.

Aldar Properties (‘Aldar’) has unveiled Mamsha Palm, setting a new standard for luxury living on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island. This exclusive residential community masterfully merges the peaceful elegance of Japanese-inspired architecture with the dynamic energy of Abu Dhabi, creating a serene and sophisticated cultural haven for its residents.

Jonathan Emery, Chief Executive Officer, Aldar Development, said: “Abu Dhabi is one of the world’s most desirable locations for investment and long-term residency due to its track record on safety, premium lifestyle, and business friendly policies. Mamsha Palm is Aldar’s latest luxury offering within Abu Dhabi’s most in-demand destination, Saadiyat Island, and we are confident it will be in extremely popular amongst buyers, especially overseas investors who intend to relocate to the emirate.”

Designed by the renowned Koichi Takada Architects, Mamsha Palm captures the concept of quiet luxury, with the building’s flowing curves and organic forms echoing the natural movement of the palm tree and evoking a strong connection to the cultural heritage of the region.

Koichi Takada, Koichi Takada Architects, commented: “Mamsha Palm has offered me a unique opportunity to create something never seen before in the Middle East. Aldar shares our dedication to residential excellence, and together we will contribute to the ‘quiet luxury’ of Saadiyat Cultural District. The architecture is inspired by nature, featuring flowing curves that evoke the protection of Palm Trees in the desert landscape. We drew aesthetic and functional cues from the tranquillity of Japanese zen lifestyle.”

With its unique design, Mamsha Palm will be a standout development within Saadiyat Cultural District, benefiting from its proximity to the sandy shores of Mamsha Al Saadiyat, the iconic Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the luxurious Nobu Hotel, and the island’s highly anticipated luxury retail destination Saadiyat Grove.

The exclusive development comprises 44 exquisite residences, including one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, as well as three four-bedroom duplex sky villas. Each residence is a testament to thoughtful design with interiors that embody the principles of Japanese minimalism — harmonious, uncluttered, and meticulously crafted. The use of natural materials and muted tones creates a sense of calm, offering residents an elevated sanctuary away from the bustle of daily life.

Mamsha Palm features an array of high-end amenities designed to enhance residents’ wellbeing and lifestyle, including a rooftop wellness space including a state-of-the-art gym, yoga studio, and swimming pool with breathtaking sea views. Residents will also be able to enjoy a seamless arrival experience with valet parking, a tranquil Zen Garden lobby, a Japanese-inspired tearoom, and exclusive retail and F&B outlets, curated to complement the community’s sophisticated lifestyle.

Saadiyat Island boasts 9km of natural beachfront and an ever-expanding landscape of sophisticated hospitality, retail, culture, wellbeing and entertainment options. Leading education institutions such as Cranleigh Abu Dhabi and New York University Abu Dhabi, are also in close proximity. The island is a 25-minute drive from Zayed International Airport and has direct connection to major highways that connect Abu Dhabi with Dubai, and the rest of the United Arab Emirates.

In line with Aldar’s aim to promote sustainable living and building practices, Mamsha Palm is targeting a 3 Pearl Estidama rating and a 2-star rating from Fitwel – the world’s leading healthy building certification.

Porsche is relaunching the 911 GT3. The exceptionally track-ready road sports car makes its debut in its anniversary year with an expanded lightweight strategy, a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre boxer engine with 375 kW (510 PS^#) and 450 Nm, and new, highly customer-focused options.

The Weissach package, available for the first time in the 911 GT3, offers even more custom configuration options for use on the track. In addition, the sports car comes with more extensive standard equipment and other options that further enhance its precision and sportiness.

911 GT3 with modern styling

The new 911 GT3 models feature a sharpened design in the front and rear as well as adapted aerodynamics. In both variants, the recontoured front diffuser, the refined shape of the spoiler lip and modified fins on the underbody increase downforce and optimize the air flow.

Redesigned Matrix LED headlights, available on the 911 GT3 with an optional white accent ring, combine all the light functions of the 911 and eliminate the need for additional lights in the front apron. This enables an enlarged air inlet area and a clearly structured look. In the rear, the diffuser, air inlets and rear lid have been redesigned. The rear wing of the 911 GT3 has new angled side plates.

Porsche uses specially developed, aerodynamically shaped trailing arms with a teardrop profile on the double-wishbone front axle. They increase downforce in the wheel arch at high speeds and improve brake cooling.

To ensure that the downforce balance between the front and rear axles is maintained even when braking from high speeds, the suspension engineers have reduced pitching (anti-dive). On the new 911 GT3, the front ball joint of the lower trailing arm has been set lower on the front axle to facilitate this. The 911 GT3 has adopted these modifications from the current 911 GT3 RS. The 911 GT3 comes standard with 255/35 ZR 20 (front) and 315/30 ZR 21 (rear) sports tires with improved wet grip; optionally, track tires with road approval are available through the Porsche Tequipment channel.

Touring package available from launch and even more customizable

With the model change, Porsche is defining the variants of the 911 GT3 even more clearly. For the first time, the popular Touring Package will be available right from the market launch.

The “Touring Package” designation goes back to an equipment variant of the 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7. It has been part of the GT3 program since 2017. It’s even more distinctive in the new 911 GT3, as reflected in the “911 GT3 touring” logo on the rear lid grille.

The 911 GT3 with Touring Package dispenses with the fixed wing and thus preserves the timelessly elegant line of the 911. An extendable rear spoiler with a tear-off edge, the famed Gurney flap, and an adapted fin design on the underbody provide aerodynamic balance.

The interior offers a high-quality leather interior and a classic sporty ambience. For the first time, a rear seat system for the 911 GT3 with Touring Package is available as an option. This allows the everyday sports car to be adapted even more individually to the wishes of the customer for maximum driving pleasure on winding country roads.

“Particularly on winding country roads, you can clearly feel that the steering is even better tuned than its predecessor,” says Porsche brand ambassador Walter Röhrl. “It instils even greater confidence in the car because it responds more calmly from the center position without losing any of its directness. The shorter gear ratio also significantly enhances driving pleasure on country roads.”

Lightweight design throughout

Its low overall weight contributes to the agile and direct handling of the 911 GT3. The new 911 GT3 goes all in on lightweight design. A new, silver-colored lightweight aluminum wheel reduces the unsprang masses by more than 1.5 kg compared to the previous model.

Optionally, magnesium wheels are available with the Weissach package or the Lightweight package. They save nine kilograms. A new 40 Ah lithium-ion lightweight battery contributes to the athletic body mass index by shaving off another roughly four kilograms. In the lightest configuration, the new 911 GT3 weighs just 1,420 kilograms.

Eight percent shorter gear ratio

The 4.0-litre naturally aspirated engine in the new 911 GT3 has been designed for current, significantly stricter exhaust standards and equipped with two particulate filters and four catalytic converters. With this extremely powerful emission control system, Porsche also delivers a gripping soundscape.

The engine power of the six-cylinder boxer engine was attained through a series of optimization measures. The cylinder heads have been revised, and the sharper camshafts of the 911 GT3 RS provide even more dynamic performance in the upper engine speed range. In addition, flow optimized individual throttle valves and optimized oil coolers are used.

The boxer engine continues to deliver 375 kW (510 PS). This means that each kilowatt of the revamped high-speed naturally aspirated engine only has to move 3.8 kilograms (2.8 kg/PS) in the lightest vehicle configuration. In addition, both the 7-speed dual clutch transmission (PDK) and the 6-speed GT manual transmission have a final drive ratio that is eight percent shorter than in the predecessor. Both gearbox options are available for both the 911 GT3 and the 911 GT3 with Touring Package.

The new 911 GT3 accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with PDK and reaches a top speed of 311 km/h (manual gearbox: 3.9 s; 313 km/h) when tested on the track. “On the track, the new 911 GT3 enables even better control because it holds even steadier and handles better on bumps and when driving over kerbs thanks to the optimized damper tuning,” says brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister. “The anti-dive system noticeably reduces the pitching movement when braking. As a result, the balance of the car remains significantly more consistent under all conditions.”

Innovative lightweight sports bucket seat

For the new 911 GT3, a new lightweight sports bucket seat with a folding backrest and a seat shell made of Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) is available as an option. The seat is equipped with an integrated thorax airbag, electric height adjustment and manual longitudinal adjustment; a three-stage seat heater is available as an option. A part of the headrest padding can be removed. This improves ergonomics for most drivers when wearing a helmet during circuit use.

The folding function of the backrest, which is activated via a loop, enables access to the optional rear seat system offered for the first time in the 911 GT3 with Touring Package. As an alternative, you can order the Adaptive sports seats Plus with electric 18-way adjustment.

The two-seater standard cockpit in the new 911 GT3 is based on the design of the current 911 models. Unlike the Carrera models, however, the 911 GT3 is not started with a button, but still has a rotary ignition switch.

An optionally available roll cage demonstrates the proximity to motorsport. The digital instrument panel in the centre supports the driver with a clearly structured display and control concept. Thanks to the contrasting colour scheme, the rev counter and stopwatch can be read in a flash. The “Track Screen” display mode reduces the digital displays to the left and right of the tachometer to key data on tyres, oil, water and fuel and indicates the optimal shifting time to the driver by way of a shift flash. If desired, the tachometer display can be rotated so that the cut-off speed of 9,000 rpm is at the 12 o’clock marking.

Individual packages for 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 Touring

Porsche offers various optional equipment packages for the new 911 GT3. With the Weissach package available for the first time, the 911 GT3 is even more individually configurable for use on circuits. The anti-roll bar, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP as are the roof, side plates of the rear wing, exterior mirror top shell, mirror triangle and the air blades in the front area.

Additional leather and Race-Tex upholstery enhance the look of the interior. For the first time, the upper side of the dashboard on the 911 GT3 is accordingly covered in anti-glare Race-Tex. CFRP door handles and storage nets optimise the interior door panels for a lightweight design. A CFRP roll cage and magnesium lightweight forged wheels are available as options.

For the 911 GT3 with Touring Package, Porsche offers the Lightweight package. Here, the roof painted in the exterior colour as well as the stabiliser, coupling rods and shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP. The lightweight magnesium forged wheels and the lightweight door panels are also part of the package. In conjunction with the standard 6-speed GT sports gearbox, the shortened gear lever from the 911 S/T is used. In front of the gear lever, a plaque with the inscription “Leichtbau” indicates the package.

For the 911 GT3 with rear wing, the Club Sport package for track use is available at no extra charge. It includes a bolted steel roll cage in the rear, a 6-point harness for the driver and a hand-held fire extinguisher. The optional lightweight sports bucket seats are a prerequisite for this.

“The new 911 GT3 has become even more exhilarating and individual. We dug into a wealth of details and gave it many features that our customers wanted. This allows the GT3 to be adapted even more specifically to the purpose or preferences of the driver,” says Andreas Preuninger, Head of GT Cars.

Exclusive 911 GT3 chronograph is a “sports car for the wrist”

Exclusively for owners of the 911 GT3 and the 911 GT3 with Touring Package, Porsche Design presents an exceptional timepiece that translates the design and performance of the sports car to the wrist. The 911 GT3 chronograph and the 911 GT3 Touring chronograph are equipped with the precise, COSC-certified Porsche Design WERK 01.200 movement, which has a flyback function.

The ultra-lightweight titanium case, optionally with black titanium carbide coating, combines sports car design with modern watchmaking. The GT3 design dial with yellow accents and hexagonal structure evokes the vehicle’s instrument panel, while the winding rotor is based on the design of the GT3 rims. The dial ring is available in all exterior colours of the 911 GT3 and the Touring Package, as well as in the colours of the Paint to Sample programme. The band, crafted using original Porsche interior leather and thread, is also matched to the respective configuration of the vehicle.