Artificial intelligence-assisted tools have been instrumental in narrowing the gap between a startup idea and a working product, allowing founders and developers to build apps, websites, data tools, and business products without writing a single line of traditional code. This was among the key themes discussed during a hands-on workshop organised by Startup Grind Doha, in collaboration with Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), which drew more than 100 founders, developers, creators, and technology enthusiasts to explore how AI is reshaping software and startup creation.
Held at QSTP, the ‘Ship Anything with Replit Agent 4’ workshop showcased how startups and entrepreneurs can rapidly move from idea to execution by building apps, websites, data tools, and business products directly through AI-assisted workflows.
The session featured Abdulrahman Aldhalaan, a member of the growth team at Replit, who led participants through the capabilities of Replit Agent 4, an AI-powered development system designed to help users plan, design, build, and launch products through natural language. Attendees also received access to Replit to continue experimenting and building on the platform after the event.
The workshop comes as Replit, whose platform underpinned the session, closed a $400mn Series D funding round that tripled its valuation to $9bn, with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) among participants.
QSTP programme director Hayfa al-Abdulla emphasised that providing access to global technologies and practical innovation experiences remains central to its role in Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Al-Abdulla said, “QSTP is committed to advancing Qatar’s innovation ecosystem by connecting global technologies with local talent and entrepreneurs. Hosting workshops like ‘Ship Anything with Replit Agent 4’ reflects our focus on delivering hands-on experiences that turn innovation into real impact.”
Aldhalaan noted that Replit is witnessing “incredible momentum” across the region from founders and builders who want to move faster and turn ideas into products with the help of AI. “Replit Agent 4 is designed to make software creation dramatically more accessible, and it was exciting to see the enthusiasm and creativity from the community in Doha,” he explained. Indica Amarasinghe, chapter director of Startup Grind Doha, said: “AI is fundamentally changing how startups are built.”