The two-day programme brought together more than 10,000 attendees from across Shell’s global network, including startups, technology partners and energy leaders, to explore the future of energy through immersive showcases, thought-provoking panel discussion and collaborative dialogue.
Qatar Shell’s presence at the event was marked by its continued commitment to digital transformation, sustainability and talent development.
The highlight of the Qatar Shell delegation’s participation was the recognition of Pearl GTL as a member of the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s Global Lighthouse Network, making it the first Shell facility and the first site in Qatar to receive this honour.
The announcement was made live on stage during the award ceremony, reinforcing Pearl GTL’s role as a benchmark in energy innovation and operational excellence.
Speaking during the panel discussion, Pearl GTL vice-president Misfer al-Bidaiwi shared insights into the site’s journey of digitalisation, including the deployment of over 45 advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics, predictive maintenance and real-time integrity monitoring.
He emphasised the importance of leadership and cultural change in driving innovation saying: “At Pearl GTL, we believe real change happens when technology and people come together with a shared purpose.”
“Our journey is about more than digital tools, it’s about building a culture of innovation, learning from our partners, and always striving to set new standards for the industry,” al-Bidaiwi continued. “We are proud to represent Qatar Shell at Changemakers of Tomorrow and to help shape a more sustainable energy future.”
The event featured the award ceremony for the Shell.ai Futures Pitch – Qatar Edition, a platform for startups to showcase breakthrough solutions in AI and energy.
A collaboration between Shell and the Qatar shell Science and Technology Park (QSTP), the competition offers a platform for start-ups to drive innovation, leveraging Shell's vast expertise in AI and energy technologies, and benefiting from the QSTP's pivotal role in Qatar's innovation ecosystem.
QSTP president Rama Chakaki attended the event.
“Coming from Silicon Valley and seeing the level of innovation, especially in AI and data science, was fantastic,” he said. “The range and diversity of startup applications – from sustainability in education to the nitty-gritty of managing the oil and gas sector – was eye-opening.”
“We see a significant opportunity in collaborating with Shell to grow the AI and machine learning startup community that supports the oil and gas sector at the QSTP and are eager to nurture this community through our joint programmne,” Chakaki added.
Qatar Shell’s engagement at Changemakers of Tomorrow reflects its alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of sustainable development, human capital, and economic diversification.
The event was a valuable opportunity to strengthen ties with global partners, share learnings, and position Qatar Shell as a leader in digital innovation within the energy sector.
The recognition of Pearl GTL as a WEF Global Lighthouse site and the active participation in Shell.ai initiatives underscore Qatar Shell’s commitment to shaping a cleaner, smarter and more resilient energy future.