CHARITY DRIVE

for the Reach Out to Asia Fund established by the Emir's daughter, Shaikha Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

CNN anchor Richard Quest will be Master of Ceremonies at the event to be held under the patronage of Shaikha Mayassa's brother, Qatar's Heir Apparent Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife, Shaikha Jowhara bint Hamad bin Suhaim al Thani and attended by the Emir, His Highness Shaikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, and his wife and Consort, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser al Misnad.

There will be a traditional red-carpet welcome for the guests — who include royalty, world-famous personalities from the realms of sport, showbusiness and politics, and the event — at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha — will feature a charity auction.

There will also be a performance by Adams.

Among items up for sale will be Bryan Adams' white Stratocaster guitar — signed by such luminaries as Mick Jagger, Paul McCartney and Sting — a highlight of the celebrity auction.

The aim of the Reach Out to Asia fund said Shaikha Mayassa is to raise millions of riyals to support communities in need throughout Asia. Money raised throughout the coming year and beyond will, she added, be used to provide materials and labour to build houses, schools and community facilities in areas hit by the December 2004 tsunami as well as those ravaged by poverty and disease.

Fund partners are the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, Qatar Airways and the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee. Schools and students will also be a part of the fund-raising activities.