TAREK HAWCHAR
A seasoned automotive journalist and media personality with over two decades of experience in the media industry. As the Editor-in-Chief of Maqina Magazine, founded in 2014, he has transformed it into one of the Middle East’s premier automotive publications, offering in-depth reviews, high-quality features, and exclusive road tests.
Before establishing Maqina, Tarek served as the Country Manager for BBC TopGear Magazine in Qatar, further solidifying his reputation in automotive journalism.
Tarek served as the official host at the prestigious Geneva International Motor Show 2023, one of the world’s most iconic automotive events. As a seasoned automotive journalist and media personality, Tarek brought his expertise and deep industry knowledge to the global stage, engaging with both brands and audiences alike.
He conducted exclusive reviews and interviews with key executives, designers, and innovators behind some of the most anticipated car launches. His coverage included detailed first impressions of cutting-edge vehicles, in-depth conversations with brand leaders, and insightful commentary that captured the excitement and innovation showcased at the show.
Tarek played a central role as the official Master of Ceremonies (MC) at the Autonomous e-Mobility Forum, a global platform dedicated to the future of smart, sustainable transportation. He guided the forum’s proceedings, introduced keynote speakers, and kept the momentum of the event engaging and dynamic.
He also moderated several high-level panel discussions featuring global experts, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Tarek serves as the Head of the Jury Panel and Organizer for two of the Middle East’s most prestigious automotive awards: the Arab Car of the Year (ARABCOTY) and Qatar Car of the Year (QCOTY). In these roles, he leads a panel of esteemed motoring journalists and industry experts, overseeing the evaluation process and ensuring that the awards recognize excellence in automotive design, performance, technology, and innovation across multiple categories.
Tarek is also an international jury member for the Grands Prix Internationaux de l’Innovation Automobile, organized by Equip Auto Paris — one of Europe’s leading automotive innovation platforms. His involvement in these global and regional awards reflects his deep expertise, authoritative voice in the automotive world, and ongoing commitment to celebrating advancements in the industry.
During the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Tarek served as a brand ambassador for the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team. In this role, he was responsible for hosting and managing live engagements, delivering brand messaging, and conducting high-profile interviews with key figures, including Fernando Alonso, Tom Kristensen, Tina Hausmann, Pedro de la Rosa, and others.
Tarek played a key role in enhancing the guest experience, representing the team’s values of performance, innovation, and excellence throughout the event.
As a distinguished Master of Ceremonies (MC) in the automotive industry, Tarek hosted a series of vehicle launch events. He was the official MC for major unveilings, including the launches of the Geely Tugella, Renault Arkana, Changan UNI-V, Changan UNI-K, Lynk & Co 06, and several others.
Tarek’s ability to seamlessly blend technical insights with engaging storytelling has elevated these events, creating memorable experiences for both media and guests, and reinforcing the brands’ innovative spirit and market presence.
He is the presenter of the Maqina Car Show, and he has reviewed over 200 cars regionally and internationally.
His insightful interviews with prominent automotive figures, including designers, engineers, and CEOs such as Dr. Ralph Speth (Jaguar Land Rover), Torsten Müller-Ötvös (Rolls-Royce), Stephan Winkelmann (Lamborghini), and Oliver Zipse (BMW), have provided readers with unparalleled industry perspectives.
With a deep passion for the automotive world and an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality content, Tarek Hawchar continues to be a leading voice in the Middle East’s automotive media landscape.