Doha: Reach Out To Asia (Rota) announced that it has completed its preparations for third Gala Dinner being held this evening, at the Museum of Islamic Art.

Rota sources told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the proceeds of the dinner was expected to exceed that of the 2nd Gala Dinner, held in 2006, which raised $11,25m.

The sources attributed the expected increase to the confidence placed in Rota not only locally but also at regional and global levels as well as its successful projects and initiatives carried out in nine Asian countries in the areas of education and humanitarian services.

Since its inception four years ago, Rota has completed the construction and renovation of 88 schools, provided educational opportunities to more than 14,200 students annually, trained more than 1,111 teachers each year, created over 532 jobs, set up voluntary network in Qatar with over 800 volunteers, organised trips to six volunteers and eight local events, and signed 21 partnerships.

The world-renowned singer Cher, wife of former British prime minister Cherie Blair, the great Arab Artist Adel Imam and a group of businessmen, politicians and artists will attend the event.

Artist Mohammad Abdo will sing a song written specifically for Rota by Qatari poet Muhammad bin Fetais Al Marri in addition to songs by international singer Yusuf Islam.

The Gala Dinner will be followed by an extraordinary auction in support of Rota’s work.

The auction will be directed by Sotheby’s. The items said to go under the hammer, include a unique selection of jewellery, paintings, hand crafted art and other collectibles, a super luxury car and a luxury apartment.