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Qatar has effectively deployed IoT networks in various sectors, including education, retail, and transportation, demonstrating the country’s positive impact on sustainability initiatives, an official of Vodafone Qatar has said. According to Simon O’Rourke, Consumer Business Unit director, Vodafone Qatar is working to support sustainable digital growth in line with Qatar’s environmental goals. “Developing and using digital technologies in an environmentally and socially responsible way is vitally important to us,” O’Rourke told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview. He said, “As a leading provider of telecommunications, we take a digital-first approach to sustainability, recognising that improved technology and greater access to data, combined with increased collaboration, can help shift the dial.” O’Rourke explained that the Vodafone app's new look and the company’s world-first Instant SIM have enhanced the digital lives of consumers in Qatar. “The Instant SIM enables users to connect without the need for Internet and without having to visit a physical location, is a great example of how Vodafone Qatar is encouraging people to think about their environmental impact, how they can minimise the resources they use, and also how they can make best use of their own time,” he further said. O’Rourke said Vodafone Qatar is also pioneering in other innovations, including the Internet of Things (IoT), which he described as a “game-changer in energy consumption management” and can help reduce the environmental footprint of houses, cities, and businesses across Qatar. IoT refers to a network of connected machines, such as vehicles, thermostats, lighting, electricity, and water supply, that can collect and exchange data through sensors to help monitor and optimise consumption, O’Rourke said, adding that smart energy monitoring is one of the most effective ways that IoT can positively impact a city. He noted that Vodafone Qatar has launched “some of the fastest and most efficient Internet services ever seen in the Middle East, so fast that they require less electricity and therefore can play a crucial part in moving towards more sustainable operations for businesses.” “Last year, we created the Middle East’s first smart ‘Gigacity’ in Msheireb, Doha, in collaboration with Nokia, through the provision of its super-fast 25Gbps fibre network. “This was followed by the launch of Vodafone Qatar’s groundbreaking Giga Home offering, which uses ‘Gigabit only’ speeds that are nearly ten times faster than average,” O’Rourke also explained. He also emphasised that Vodafone Qatar is addressing data privacy and security concerns within the context of increased connectivity and data usage. According to O’Rourke, the digital landscape is evolving rapidly and as such, privacy and security have been at the top of Vodafone Qatar’s agenda for a number of years. “We were proud to be the first telecommunications operator in Qatar, and the region, to be awarded the prestigious ISO 27001:2013 certification by the British Standards Institution, back in 2017, demonstrating the strength of our information security management systems and operations. This accreditation has been renewed numerous times over the past eight years. “What’s more, we know that our customers want absolute control over their security, as well as control over who can contact them, and for this reason, we were delighted to launch the new International Call Block (ICB) service which means that via the new-look My Vodafone app, customers can block nuisance international calls at the touch of a button,” he said. O’Rourke pointed out that Vodafone not only caters to consumers on the security front but also offers enterprises in Qatar reliable and secure features that protect data on mobile devices, laptops, and networks. This ensures business continuity and reduces the risk of breaches, ultimately helping to minimise potential commercial losses and safeguard business integrity in the market, he said. Only recently, Vodafone Qatar announced new plans that cater to the specific needs of its customers, including the country’s burgeoning expatriate population. “When you consider that around 80% of Qatar’s population is made up of expatriate workers, who hail from all over the world, including a large proportion from Southeast Asia, it’s clear that our products and solutions need to be designed with their needs in mind. “With the launch of these new plans, we have listened carefully to what they have told us, to bring the best of what is available in the region, and indeed the rest of the world, together in a new suite of products,” he said. O’Rourke said: “When living away from loved ones, it’s important that our customers have control over how they use their data; offering dedicated social media data on our postpaid plans means people can use platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook to update family at home without impacting the cost of international calls back home to family and friends. “What’s more, unlimited local calls also means that expats can enjoy absolute peace of mind that those everyday local conversations are not incurring any charges, leaving them free to use their data for international calls.” Aside from the ICB feature that allows users to screen unwanted foreign calls, giving them complete control and peace of mind, O’Rourke said the new Mute Service makes it easy to manage unwanted calls when customers are unavailable, which can be particularly useful for those who speak to people across a variety of time zones. “Once enabled, those trying to reach a customer will be notified of their unavailability, whilst customers will still be able to make and receive calls. Such innovative safety and security features are integral in enhancing the overall connective experience,” O’Rourke added.

Aligned with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, Vodafone Qatar aims to leverage its robust 5G network and emerging technologies to drive human and economic development, an official has said.“We’re committed to connecting today’s ideas with the technologies of tomorrow so that we can help play a major role in shaping Qatar’s digital infrastructure, which forms the bedrock of the nation’s economic and social development,” said Simon O’Rourke, Consumer Business Unit director, Vodafone Qatar, in an exclusive interview with Gulf Times.Asked how Vodafone Qatar’s newly launched UNLIMITED+ plans reflect its efforts to contribute to Qatar’s digital landscape, he said the company has been dedicated to driving the country’s digital transformation and connecting its citizens to a brighter future for the last 15 years, with its operations underpinned by the ethos, ‘Together We Can’.“With the landmark launch of our new range of postpaid plans, we’re aiming to enhance every aspect of our customers’ lives through innovative technology and tailored solutions.“Customers will not have had access to many of these products before in Qatar and so, we’re opening up the digital landscape even further with cutting-edge solutions such as dedicated social media data, which allows customers to enjoy using platforms such as Instagram and TikTok without using up their regular data allowance,” O’Rourke explained.He further said Vodafone Qatar’s new multi-SIM capability, which allows up to four additional SIMs to be linked to a customer’s main plan, means one number can be used across multiple devices setting a new bar in data sharing and convenience.“And let’s not forget that in this increasingly connected world, customers need absolute control over who can contact them. With our new Mute Service we’re empowering our customers, making it even easier for them to manage unwanted calls,” he noted.According to O’Rourke, Vodafone Qatar’s own strategies are always carefully aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and its four central development goals, recognising that technology has an enormous role to play in delivering its success.“With the advent of our new Postpaid+ and Unlimited+ plans, we are ensuring that consumers in Qatar can take advantage of Vodafone Qatar’s world-class, award-winning 5G network.“Our 5G network is at its most robust and extensive and as part of our work to develop Qatar’s national digital infrastructure, we are continuously opening up opportunities to embrace and deploy other emerging technologies,” he pointed out.Having built an ecosystem that underpins a digital-first lifestyle, O’Rourke said Vodafone Qatar is intent on delivering cutting-edge digital experiences to its customers and enriching their lives by enabling them to connect, listen, watch, and engage. He said the company is also bringing the world to people’s fingertips, and empowering them in all areas of their lives, through Vodafone Qatar’s technology.“Furthermore, we understand the critical role the digital economy will play in shaping the future and digital enablement is a key part of developing human and economic capabilities in Qatar into 2030 and beyond,” he emphasised.O’Rourke said Vodafone Qatar is committed to digital inclusivity, offering a wide range of products and services, promoting digital awareness, and expanding access to best-in-class services for all communities.“Qatar has worked tirelessly to become one of the most digitally advanced nations in the world and ensuring that all of its citizens are included in this digital revolution is something that we take very seriously. I’m also aware that it’s something the country has been looking into through a recent survey, to evaluate levels of inclusivity in Qatar.“We aim to ensure we have the widest possible range of products and services on the market today, to ensure that we are satisfying the needs of as many consumers as possible. We also continue to promote digital inclusion and expand access to best-in-class services for all communities. We pioneer several programmes that focus on digital awareness and wellbeing, so as many people as possible are empowered to make their own choices when it comes to connectivity,” he said.O’Rourke added: “Unlimited social media data on our new Unlimited+ plans is one of the clearest proof points that we are promoting digital inclusivity in Qatar, as it removes any limitations or barriers to those who want to enjoy the world of social media.”

A Doha-based Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is seeking to represent the 2.3mn OFWs globally in the Philippine House of Representatives.Joseph Timothy Rivera, who has been working in Qatar’s real estate sector, has been selected as the fourth nominee of the Advocates & Keepers Organisation of OFWs (AKO OFW) Inc. He will represent the organisation in the party-list system for the Philippines’ national and local mid-term elections, scheduled for May 12, 2025.Rivera took his oath at the Philippine embassy in Doha on September 25, 2024, for the authentication of his Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (Cona). This document was subsequently filed with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on October 7, 2024, by Dr Celerino Umandap, the founding chairman and first nominee of the AKO OFW Party-list.In a media statement, Rivera emphasised that his legislative agenda is deeply rooted in his decades of experience as a Filipino expatriate in Qatar. Rivera lauded Qatar’s model for establishing economic zones designed to attract more foreign investment, which in turn generates more local jobs.According to Rivera, his proposed landmark bills are largely inspired by Qatar’s highly effective social, political, civic, and economic policies, which he believes can help build a better Philippines.Key proposals include the digitalisation of all financial transactions with and within the Philippine government, improved tax collection measures, a mandatory fail-proof National ID system, stricter regulations on communications, an emphasis on discipline with heightened fines for misdemeanours and felonies, stronger laws against financial crimes, the establishment of a modern socialised healthcare system, robust cybercrime legislation to combat misinformation and fake news, and a moral recovery programme that criminalises unjust vexation and the use of foul language, including in digital formats.He also emphasised the importance of upgrading the salaries and wages of government officials and civil servants in the Philippines to meet world standards, similar to those in the UK and Singapore. This, he believes, is a necessary step towards eliminating graft and corruption within the government.“If given the opportunity, we will continue to advocate for priority legislation beyond anti-human trafficking and illegal recruitment. Our focus will also include expanding OFW hospitals and hospital wings, establishing housing schemes for OFWs, improving medical care for OFW dependents, enhancing reintegration initiatives for OFWs and former OFWs. This will cover skills training, scholarships for dependents, and no-collateral livelihood programmes,” Rivera pointed out.Rivera pledged to all Filipino expatriates in Qatar that he will remain committed to assisting the Philippine government in providing essential support to Filipino migrant workers, and will also work to enhance AKO OFW’s advocacies aimed at improving the lives and welfare of OFWs globally.AKO OFW now has more than 186,000 active members worldwide with active chapters in almost every province in the Philippines and 44 overseas chapters, including Qatar, added Rivera, who also served as a consultant to the board and special adviser to the director general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for the Middle East. This earned him an award during the ‘Galing Pinas Ecozone Investment Partnership Award 2021’.

An official from Msheireb Properties emphasised the crucial role of cybersecurity in protecting critical infrastructure at its inaugural outdoor cybersecurity conference held Thursday in Doha. Engineer Ahmed al-Korbi, senior ICT manager at Msheireb Properties, described Msheireb Downtown Doha as a “smart tech leader in Qatar,” adding that hosting a first-ever outdoor cybersecurity conference underscores its “commitment to introducing technological innovation and digital safety among the community.”The conference, held in partnership with White Hat Desert (WHD), gathered more than 1,500 participants from across multiple sectors to Barahat Msheireb. The event featured 15 speakers, five specialised Cybersecurity Villages, and CTF ‘Capture the Flag’ competition to Barahat Msheireb, and representation from energy, banking, construction, healthcare, and broadcasting companies, setting a new benchmark for cybersecurity events in Qatar.“Through our sophisticated network of over 650,000 connected IoT devices and state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, we understand firsthand the critical importance of cybersecurity in modern urban environments. This event demonstrates our dedication to sharing this knowledge with both industry professionals and the general public in Qatar,” al-Khorbi noted in his opening speech.The morning industry session delivered comprehensive insights across four key themes: ‘Emerging Threats’, ‘Artificial Intelligence’, ‘Risk Management’, and ‘Cyber Strategy’.The event featured five distinct cybersecurity villages, each offering specialised experiences. The ‘Digital Forensics & Incident Response’ village provided hands-on training with security experts, while the ‘Application Security’ section offered a fundamental understanding of secure development practices.Participants engaged with offensive security methods in the ‘Penetration Testing’ area and explored malware analysis in the ‘Reverse Engineering’ section. The ‘WHD Clinic’ served as a community hub for networking, while the Qatar Scientific Club showcased innovative demonstrations in robotics and electronics.The evening session transformed Barahat Msheireb into an interactive technology playground, featuring exciting competitions and demonstrations. Attendees witnessed ‘Sumo Robot’ battles and high-speed drone racing competitions. Gaming enthusiasts participated in an intense Fortnite tournament while aspiring technologists engaged in circuit board-building workshops. Live hacking demonstrations captured the audience's attention, providing real-world examples of cyber threats and defence mechanisms.Al-Khorbi said, “The diversity of activities and depth of expertise shared today reflects our commitment to making cybersecurity accessible to everyone. From the technical discussions about AI-driven attacks and ransomware in the morning sessions to the engaging family activities in the evening, we’ve succeeded in creating a comprehensive platform for cybersecurity awareness and education.”

South Korea is looking to increase its agri-food exports, particularly processed and non-processed food, excluding aquatic food products, to Qatar.This was raised during a meeting between Song Miryung, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs of the Republic of South Korea, and HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, during a recently held meeting in Seoul.During the meeting, both officials discussed a wide range of initiatives for bilateral cooperation on smart farming, including cooperation from the Qatari side for the expansion of exports of Korean agri-food products to Qatar.In a statement to Gulf Times, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in South Korea lauded Qatar for innovating agricultural technologies to expand the production of vegetables and meat.According to the ministry, the most exported Korean agri-food products to Qatar include corn oil and ramyeon, otherwise known as Korean-style instant noodles. Recently, exports of Korean food products, such as dubu (bean curd), processed rice-based products, and kimchi are also increasing.As the importance of food security is growing significantly, Qatar has a large potential for co-operation with South Korea in terms of exchanges of smart farming-related technologies and exports of smart farms, the ministry’s statement further emphasised.The South Korean minister said, “If Qatar gives special attention to bringing the investment co-operation for building a smart-farming innovation complex in Qatar to the next level, it would be highly appreciated.“The Korean government is continuing to provide support for Korean companies to expand their exports to countries, including Qatar. I hope that the bilateral meeting will serve as a valued opportunity to expand the exports of Korean food products to Qatar.”Al-Attiyah said: “On October 2023, the State of Qatar and the Republic of Korea made an amendment to the memorandum of understanding on smart farming. I hope that this amendment will provide an opportunity for both sides to diversify not only the exchanges of technologies but also the trade of agri-food products.”According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in South Korea, al-Attiyah also asked the Korean government and companies to participate in and support AgriteQ 2025 (International Agricultural and Environmental Exhibition), slated in February 2025 in Qatar.

Bologna, Italy: The top official of the Cia-Agricoltori Italiani (Italian Farmers Confederation) has called for innovation and mechanisation to address major challenges for farms, such as balancing reduced inputs and soil fertility, reflecting the need to transition to more sustainable, regenerative farming practices.Cia president Cristiano Fini’s statement came at the heels of a ‘Agromechanical Industry Technologies, Professional Skills, and Markets: New Challenges for the Agricultural Enterprise’ conference held on the sidelines of EIMA International 2024, which concludes on November 10 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre.Moderated by Piero Fachin, co-editor of Quotidiano Nazionale, the conference was also attended by Mariateresa Maschio, president of FederUnacoma; Francesco Lollobrigida, Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Forests; Valentino Valentini, Deputy Minister for Business and Made in Italy; Matteo Zoppas, president of the ICE Agency; and Luca Brondelli, vice president of Confagricoltura.The conference tackled topics and challenges facing the global and domestic agriculture industry, such as technological innovation, training, support for investments in the latest-generation machinery, and the promotion of “Made in Italy” products on global markets.The event also underscored that the investments in technology are a key factor for the Italian agricultural economy in increasing yields, optimising the use of production factors, and improving the quality of foodstuffs. However, these investments are held back by the sector's low profitability, the conference further emphasised.Fini said: “Our farms have to reduce inputs and, at the same time, counteract the loss of soil fertility. It is a very complex challenge that has environmental and social implications. To overcome it, we must focus on innovation and mechanisation, which have already enabled us to navigate complex economic phases in the past. However, low farm incomes do not facilitate investment in advanced machinery, which must instead be made accessible to operators.”The conference pointed out that the high cost in raw materials, especially energy, is driving the increase in production costs. To address this, Valentini emphasised the Italian government’s plans to reintroduce nuclear energy. "We reiterate that we are in favour of this solution. It is on the EU agenda and it is an objective for the Italian government. We are working to arrive at concrete proposals soon,” the deputy minister stressed.Meanwhile, Brondelli spoke on the importance of innovation in training, saying: “The latest generation of mechanical equipment has very advanced features that increase productivity and safety levels at work but at the same time require highly specialised skills. I am thinking, for example, of the enormous amount of data collected by the machines. These data are essential for our daily work, but they must be studied, analysed, and shared based on specific know-how.”Zoppas added: “Training is also of strategic importance for the promotion of ‘Made in Italy’ products on global markets.”The conference noted that supporting investments in new-generation machinery is necessary even in the face of an unfavourable economic situation. The strategic role of training and cooperation is crucial not only to promote Italian-made products in global markets but also to overcome the “two- or three-speed” model of agriculture.

Bologna, Italy: Farms in Qatar, as well as other agricultural lands in the GCC and the wider Middle East, stand to gain from the benefits of “conservative agriculture”, according to an industry expert.On the sidelines of EIMA International 2024, which concludes on November 10 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre, MAAG director of business development Serena Ruggeri explained that conservative agriculture is a sustainable agricultural production system that utilises innovative cultivation and soil management practices that protects the soil from erosion and degradation.This, Ruggeri continued, improves soil quality, maintains biodiversity, and contributes to the conservation of the soil fertility and improvement of agricultural production.Ruggeri emphasised that she is quite familiar with the challenges of growing various agricultural produce in harsh desert climates, hence MAAG, an agricultural machinery manufacturer based in Casal Brutani in northern Italy, has been promoting the practice of conservative agriculture in GCC countries for the past 12 years.Citing a presentation that she delivered recently in Dubai, Ruggeri said traditional agriculture, through deep and intensive cultivation, contributes to soil degradation, causing a loss of organic substances, erosion, and compaction. Ruggeri lamented that soil degradation, a global environmental challenge, is occurring at an alarming rate and causes a major threat to crop productivity worldwide.“This unquestionably leads to the negative effects on the quality of the soil’s water and air, contributing to the production of additional carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere and not allowing agriculture through negative advocacy to play its natural role in the food chain,” Ruggeri’s presentation stated.Since her father founded MAAG, the company has been developing and producing equipment for minimum tillage and conservative agriculture, which through the combination of different working elements, could ensure high productivity combined with a reduction in labour, fuel cost, and greater respect for the environment, Ruggeri explained.According to Ruggeri, conservative agriculture allows farmers to achieve three operational objectives: minimal tillage, stream tillage, and direct seeding. She noted that minimum tillage represents “an excellent solution” to counteract the phenomenon of soil degradation and is also “the best tool “for for improving the soil's ability to absorb carbon, retain humidity, and contain tillage costs.“So, the idea of minimum tillage is also very important in a desert climate and desert country because you need only to work on 15cm or 20cm of depth without reversing the soil. Why? Because the fertility of the soil is inside, so you have to work inside the soil without reversing.“Our concept, the combination of the different tools on our machines, permits you to do this; you break the soil inside and mix the soil inside, so the fertility and the nutrients of the soil stay within, so that when you seed, the seed can take all the nutrition and can grow without any problems,” Ruggeri told Gulf Times.

Bologna, Italy: Uncertainty in both international and domestic markets, and mainly, contraction on foreign demand, have led to the decline in national production of Italy’s agricultural machinery, an official of FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, has said.Speaking to journalists covering this year’s ‘International Agricultural and Gardening Machinery Exhibition’ (EIMA International 2024), which will run until November 10 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre, FederUnacoma president Mariateresa Maschio said the overall value of national production of agriculture and gardening technologies is set to close 2024 with a 19.5% decrease compared to the same period in 2023, amounting to only €13.2bn.“The decline is due to the contraction of domestic demand, but above all, to the slowdown of foreign markets, which contribute significantly to the turnover of Italian agricultural machinery companies. FederUnacoma will have to wait for the second half of 2025 to see a recovery,” she said.Forecasts of the construction association FederUnacoma indicate a 19.5% decline, for a total value of €13.2bn, or €3.2bn less than the previous year. Data relating to the production of mechanical vehicles for agriculture was taken from the total of the different types of machines, Maschio stated.She said tractors account for just over €2bn (-25% compared to 2023), incomplete tractors and spare parts account for €1bn (-28.6%), operating machines and equipment represent a value of €6.2bn (-16.5%), components for €3.3bn (-17.5%), while gardening and green care machines contribute €700mn, with a 22.2% decrease from the previous year.“The decline in domestic demand weighed on the contraction in turnover in the first half of the year. The Italian market for technologies for the primary sector, which in 2023 had closed with a 12.9% decrease for tractors and with declines also for other types of vehicles from January to October, recorded even more pronounced declines, with registrations of tractors at -14.6%, combine harvesters (-31.5%), tractors with loading platforms (-18.2%), telescopic handlers at (14,9%), and trailers at (2.4%).“The data relating to the sales of gardening machinery and equipment, processed by Comagarden on the basis of the Morgan survey group and referring to the month of September, are slightly more positive (+1.2%), but do not compensate for the strong deficit recorded by the garden sector in the two-year period 2022-2023,” Maschio explained.In the first six months of 2024, Maschio said Italy’s exports of tractors, tractor parts, and other agricultural machinery (excluding data on components and gardening) fell by 9% overall, with a value of €3bn and €408mn, while maintaining a positive trade balance of €2.2bn.She said the US, France, and Germany were once again the main destination countries for agricultural technologies bearing the “Made in Italy” trademark, followed by Turkiye, which ranks fourth on the exports list.Maschio said, “No improvements are expected in the end-of-year budget as shown from the monitoring that the federation of builders systematically carries out among its associated companies. In the third quarter of this year, 70% of the industries in the sector reported a worse turnover trend compared to the same period last year, with a prevalence of companies indicating a decline of between 11% and 20%.“According to 60% of the manufacturers surveyed, a reversal of the trend could materialise from the second half of 2025. The recovery could be helped by a stabilisation of the overall economic picture, but as far as domestic demand is concerned, much depends on the implementation of the incentive system for the purchase of latest-generation agricultural machinery.”

Bologna, Italy: Italy’s cutting edge technologies in the field of robotics is seen to play a key role in driving innovation in Qatar’s agriculture sector, a professor from the University of Bologna has said.According to Lorenzo Marconi, Italy and Qatar will benefit from the sharing of best practices and expertise, as well as in research and development (R&D), especially between universities from both nations. Marconi, who is also the co-founder of Italian company FieldRobotics, made the statement on the sidelines of EIMA International 2024, which will run until November 10 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre.Marconi and his team are participating at EIMA to showcase the ‘HammerHead’, an autonomous ground rover vehicle designed for agricultural applications in orchards, vineyards, and even in remote environments with poor GPS signals.The HammerHead made its debut in Qatar in early 2024 during the ‘International Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha Qatar’, where Marconi showcased the revolutionary autonomous field robot’s versatile applications in agriculture and its potential uses in other industries.Asked about potential collaboration between FieldRobotics and Qatar’s private sector and the academe, Marconi said: “I absolutely see a future in strong synergy with the University of Bologna and universities abroad.“That is just the first step because there is a need to keep building applications, sensors, algorithms, and other implements. And all that kind of improvement needs formation, training, and support from the universities and research centres. So, it’s very important to have a tight connection between them,” Marconi told Gulf Times.When the HammerHead showcased its capabilities at the Expo 2023 Doha, it was still a prototype, Marconi explained. He noted that the robot underwent further improvements in the production line, as well as certifications in safety, making it a reliable industrial product.Marconi pointed out that the HammerHead is like a small tractor, where its users could attach or plug any kind of conventional or even futuristic implements aimed at bringing robotics and industrial automation into the field, and not only in indoor settings. The company has placed a lot of emphasis and attempts in creating a platform that is reliable, robust, and attractive to enable all these technologies outdoors, Marconi said.The HammerHead is equipped with AI algorithms, cameras, laser scanners, and sensor fusion for robust environmental mapping and precise autonomous navigation, said Marconi, further describing it as a “perfect example of a mechatronics system.”With the latest improvements to the HammerHead, Marconi said the robot has been integrated with implements for mechanical weeding, spraying, trimming, data harvesting, and other elaborations, among other features.To adapt to Qatar’s desert climate, the HammerHead can be equipped with many other implements for soil management, data harvesting, and the counting of fruit or canopy density, as well as in managing irrigation, treatments, and soil management, among other applications.“For the robot’s applications in Qatar, we can put many other implements on board...if ever resources are not enough or must be managed in a precise way, this is a machine that can enable these kinds of solutions,” Marconi pointed out.He also said, “The HammerHead is equipped with certain thermal sensors, which could detect if certain parts of the plant are experiencing water shortage or not, which helps in managing resources that are limited, like water, in a very smart way.“It can also detect the density of the canopy. This information will enable the sprayer to spray in a very surgical and precise way without wasting chemical products. This machine helps avoid chemicals for the anti-weeding because it makes mechanical weeding into a specific weeding. This machine has a big computer on board and could be equipped with any kind of intelligence that you can imagine.”Asked about the company’s plans to expand its footprint in markets like Qatar, Marconi said the company’s market strategy for 2025 is to expand the platform in Italy and to identify international partners abroad, such as Qatar.

Bologna, Italy: FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, is eyeing closer partnerships with Qatar to help the Gulf nation address its requirements in the agriculture industry, an official has said.“As an Italian industry, we can provide the appropriate solutions for Qatar, especially in areas such as irrigation, vertical farming, smart farming through greenhouses, and robotics, among others. We are global leaders in providing and designing solutions for greenhouses, especially for vegetables. In 2025, we are planning to increase FederUnacoma’s promotional activities in those particular areas” its deputy general manager Fabio Ricci told Gulf Times on the sidelines of EIMA International 2024, which was formally inaugurated here on Wednesday. EIMA International 2024 or the ‘International Agricultural and Gardening Machinery Exhibition’ is on its 46th edition and will conclude on November 10.According to Ricci, Qatar’s desert climate and lack of arable lands pose a wide range of challenges to growing different types of produce, as well as to the nation’s food security strategy, citing desertification as a priority issue.Ricci said: “We know that some of the main challenges in this area are desertification and greenhouses because most of the vegetables in Qatar are grown in greenhouses. Vertical farming and managing water for irrigation systems are among the many areas that Italy can provide with support, technology, and expertise.“We are aware that Qatar has some niches where Italian technology could play a fundamental role to increase the level of mechanisation in those areas. Aside from water consumption, Qatar needs fertile land to increase the number of hectares of cultivated lands.”In early 2024 through the auspices of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) in Doha, Ricci led a delegation from FederUnacoma and industry experts from Italy’s private sector and the academe during 2023 Expo Doha to promote EIMA International 2024 and to showcase Italy’s most advanced machines and equipment to cultivate arid soils and to create highly automated farming models.This year’s exhibition kicked off in Bologna with over 1,750 participating industries, 700 of which are international companies covering every market segment. EIMA International 2024 is showcasing cutting-edge vehicles, machinery, and advanced digital systems for an increasingly scientific agriculture industry connected to the service system and other production sectors.Speaking at the Palazzo dei Congressi in Bologna, FederUnacoma general director Simona Rapastella, presented the exhibition’s leading role in machinery and technologies for agriculture, forestry, livestock farming and greenery maintenance.“The EIMA international exhibition raises expectations ever higher by offering technological solutions to the great challenges of agriculture and the environment. Population growth, climate change, polluting emissions, animal welfare, and the protection of biodiversity are all crucial issues for the future of the planet and can only be addressed with new generation agro-mechanical technologies,” Rapastella emphasised.Organised into 14 product sectors and five thematic shows: Components, Digital, Energy, Green, and Hydrotech, EIMA offers a wide platform to increase agricultural productivity while drastically reducing its impact on the environment. There are approximately 60,000 models of vehicles, equipment, and components produced by over 1,750 exhibiting industries, 700 of which are from 50 countries, on display at the Bologna Exhibition Centre.Rapastella stressed that the technical content of the exhibition has set a new record for ‘Technical Innovations’ awarded. Similarly, the numerous previews and new products presented by participating manufacturers, as well as the presence of the EIMA Campus, where eleven universities are represented, together with research centres and training facilities, have elevated the event to greater heights.During the five-day event, many representatives of the Italian government and institutions will be present, including delegations of European and national parliamentarians, and diplomats from foreign countries, to explore the most suitable technological solutions for their respective regions. They will also take part in the discussion on agricultural models, the economic and geopolitical variables that influence trade, and cooperation strategies.According to Rapastella, this year's EIMA event will also feature digital and robotic technologies, including applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data, which now makes it possible to connect the activities of agricultural companies to weather forecasting systems, mapping and control of territories, and the monitoring of products for health purposes, management of agro-industrial supply chains, distribution on markets, as well as control of the operating parameters of machinery for technical assistance and work safety.Rapastella said: “Modern mechanisation thus allows companies to remain competitive and to keep pace with the ecological needs of the planet and allows agriculture to be included within a macro-system that involves everyone, from consumers to institutions, and even the world of school and training. This is why this exhibition is no longer merely an ‘industry event’ but rather an ‘Innovation Factory’, open to agro-industrial supply chains and related economic sectors, and very much looking towards the future.

Bologna, Italy: FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, has recorded a spike in imports of agricultural machinery from several countries in Southeast Asia and Africa, an official has said.According to FederUnacoma president Mariateresa Maschio, population growth has been driving imports of agricultural machinery in Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand in Southeast Asia, and in Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the African continent.Speaking at a pre-event press conference of the five-day EIMA International 2024 ‘International Agricultural and Gardening Machinery Exhibition’, which will run until November 10 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre, Maschio said in the coming years, geography will play a key role in Europe and North America’s roles as leading markets for agricultural machinery.“Yet an increasing role will be played by countries, such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand, which are already recording growth in imports of specific machinery. Population growth – the source of this growing demand for agricultural technologies – will also be decisive in Africa, starting with Nigeria, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Maschio pointed out.She said, “The agricultural machinery sector is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, but the geography of the markets will change. The major markets in Europe and North America will maintain a high level of investment to ensure high quality standards, and the two Asian giants – India and China – will tend to stabilise mechanisation on the large quantities achieved in recent years, but the emerging markets will be those of Southeast Asia and Africa.”Maschio said Indonesia’s 300mn population makes it one of the most populous in the world and “destined to further increase its demographic weight in the coming years.” In Indonesia, imports of agricultural machinery have been growing steadily for the past 15 years, stated Maschio, and have gone from €140mn in 2009 to €700mn in 2023, or an average growth of 8.6% per year, with a further 6.7% per year increase forecast between 2024 and 2027.Similarly, Vietnam, with its 100mn population, expects imports to increase by 6.2% annually over the next four years. The Philippines (110mn inhabitants) should increase imports by 7.8% during the same forecasted period, while Thailand (71mn), after a very slow growth in the last 15 years equal to just 1% average per year, is expected to move to an annual increase of 6.8% in the 2024-2027 period.“The demographic variable is even more influential on the African continent, if it is true that Sub-Saharan Africa alone will account for 50% of the world's population growth in 2050. On the African continent, Nigeria, which already has 230mn inhabitants and will have over 400mn in 2050 (making it the third most populous country in the world) stands out, followed by Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, both well over 100mn inhabitants and destined to see significant growth in the next twenty years, entering the ranks of the 10 most populous countries on the planet.“In Nigeria, only 46% of cultivable land is currently used and in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a meagre 10% of arable land is currently used for agriculture. Thus, putting new territories into production is a priority for them and other countries on the continent, with an increase in demand for technologies in the immediate future (between 2024 and 2027, the import of agricultural machinery will grow by 7% per year in Ethiopia and 12% in Congo), but even more over the next 20 years,” Maschio explained.

Industry experts navigated the intricacies and challenges of funding businesses during a panel discussion hosted by Startup Grind Qatar Chapter titled ‘Fuelling Startup Growth: Acceleration and Early-stage Funding Strategies’.The panel was composed of Malgorzata “Mal” Filipowska, portfolio & platform manager at Seedstars, Mohamed Elmalik, venture partner at Antler, and Dr Hanan el-Basha, managing director of Founder Institute GCC Chapter. The discussion was moderated by Steve Mackie, founder of www.businessstartupqatar.com.During the discussion, Filipowska underscored the importance of accelerators and strategic investment in nurturing startup ecosystems, particularly in emerging markets. She said local entrepreneurs can scale their businesses and access international markets by wisely utilising tailored support and funding.She also encouraged entrepreneurs to value adaptability and learn from others’ experiences. “We don’t want to work with founders who think they know everything,” Filipowska explained, noting that ideal startup founders are open to feedback and eager to learn from industry experts.When asked if competition is necessary in the industry, she stated that a lack of competition raises concerns among investors. “We love it when there’s competition... it means that the market exists,” said Filipowska, who emphasised that competition provides crucial insights into a company’s growth prospects.While entering untested markets may involve significant risks, Filipowska pointed out that competition enables investors to effectively assess market demand and trends. She stated, “When we look at companies creating entirely new categories, it gives us a completely different perspective on how far the company can grow.”Filipowska also stressed the importance of personal development for entrepreneurs, recommending free resources like Y Combinator’s Startup School and Lenny’s Newsletter, as well as Reforge, a paid platform where industry leaders share best practices in product and growth strategy.For his part, Elmalik underlined the critical role of self-reliance and adaptability in the startup world, noting that while external support allows key insights, founders must have the core drive to succeed.Asked how Antler prepares founders for the challenges of entrepreneurship, he said: “We don’t get them ready.” Elmalik stressed that entrepreneurs should learn how to be resilient, with a focus on self-discovery.Elmalik also underlined the value of self-reliance, noting that not all businesses would need or benefit from venture funding, and advised founders to explore other funding methods. He noted the importance of forging personal, long-term relationships with potential investors, suggesting that they should build trust and mutual understanding with investors in the hope that this could lead to funding opportunities before formal rounds.El-Basha, for her part, advocated for thorough market research and validation before diving into development, stressing that the proverbial “build it and they will come” no longer applies in most cases today. Instead, she encouraged startups to ensure their idea is grounded in real customer insights.She noted that providing constructive support for founders with the right knowledge and entrepreneurial mindset could help clarify their vision and find a clear path forward. “Rather than giving [startups] a hard time, we emphasise the research part. A lot dive into the deep end without doing the research, without doing the market validation, the customer validation,” she pointed out.El-Basha stressed that financial awareness is essential for founders, emphasising that they should manage funds wisely, balancing hiring and operational expenses with available resources. She said building financial literacy within startup ecosystems to help founders will help ensure sustainable and effective financial decisions.She added: “Being aware and open to possibilities allows you to advance while staying true to your vision and the core of your idea. It’s crucial to remain open to feedback. I often say others can detect your blind spots. If you choose to ignore feedback on these blind spots, you might remain stuck for a long time.”

Sweden's Defence Minister, Pål Jonson, has presented a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening defence cooperation with Qatar in an exclusive interview with Gulf Times.Jonson, who was in the country recently for this year’s edition of Milipol Qatar, emphasised that the initiative builds on a letter of intent for military co-operation that was signed on the sidelines of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s state visit to Stockholm last month.With a letter of intent in place, Jonson said potential partnerships between Sweden and Qatar in areas like cybersecurity, maritime protection, and space-based capabilities, are significant factors when addressing various security challenges and regional stability. The minister also lauded Qatar for its role in international mediation efforts, referring to Doha as “a centrepiece of dialogue and discussions.”Sweden and Qatar have numerous potential areas for collaboration, emphasised Jonson, who also noted that engaging in a series of partnerships in various fields presents several advantages. The minister pointed out that a comprehensive strategy for defence cooperation between Sweden and Qatar presents a significant shift in both nation’s relationship in terms of military collaboration, potentially leading to deeper technological and security partnerships.According to the minister, underwater protection of critical infrastructure could be one potential area of cooperation, noting Qatar’s developments in this domain. He emphasised that Sweden has developed a “steep learning curve” in underwater infrastructure protection, citing lessons from the Nord Stream and the Balticconnector incidents.Similarly, cybersecurity is another essential area for collaboration, stated Jonson, who highlighted Sweden’s distinct sectoral approach to digital defence. He explained that the Swedish government has divided critical infrastructure protection into several distinct sectors, each addressing specific security needs in the country. Describing Sweden as “one of the most digital countries in the world,” the minister also emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between digitalisation and cybersecurity.Asked about potential collaboration on space-based military capabilities, the minister said Sweden has recently launched a new strategy for security and defence aspects of space, underlining the dramatic increase in the global deployment of satellites. According to Jonson, Sweden also designated funding for military satellite capabilities and possesses the only space launch facility located within the EU.Highlighting Sweden’s substantial investments in research and development (R&D) and focus on fostering STEM education, Jonson noted the importance of long-term partnerships and technology transfer in defence cooperation, following the country’s “triple helix model” involving government, industry, and academia.According to the minister, Sweden’s recent NATO membership could further enhance bilateral opportunities with Qatar, particularly given the Gulf nation’s status as a major non-NATO ally of the US and its role in regional security. “Sweden brings extensive experience in international defence cooperation, having been NATO’s closest partner for three decades,” Jonson added.

An official of the Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB) has said that the Philippines is eager to support Qatar in its efforts to acquire talent in the construction sector.POCB executive director Doris U Gacho said: “The Philippines has a wealth of talent; we have the technical capabilities. Our global workforce is known for their care and technical acumen, especially in architecture and engineering services.”“We are very much interested in finding out about the requirements of the Qatar market and hopefully with this participation, we can establish connections and take advantage of these opportunities,” noted Gacho, who led a delegation from the Philippines that participated in the recently held Big 5 Exhibition in Doha.Gacho explained that the POCB has assembled a delegation of Philippine construction services exporters and firms specialising in architectural and engineering services to explore opportunities in Qatar’s market. A key focus is leveraging the Philippines’ extensive talent pool in the construction sector, she further pointed out.According to Gacho, the POCB is taking significant steps to strengthen construction and engineering partnerships with Qatar, following the groundbreaking visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Philippines in April.“This is our first time to explore the Qatari market and our presence here aims to build on the historic visit of His Highness the Amir’s state visit. We are hoping to build on the positive relationships established between our two nations and hopefully get to participate in the Qatar construction market,” Gacho told Gulf Times.By leveraging global Filipinos, Gacho emphasised that the POCB’s strategy centres on promoting construction and outsourcing services, particularly in architecture and engineering, by capitalising on the existing Filipino workforce in Qatar.Gacho said: “One of the members of our delegation is the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).They are here not only to promote their services but also to engage with our Qatari counterparts during our meetings.“We aim to explore ways to better align our licensing standards, ensuring that when we collaborate, our professionals and skilled workers meet the required skills and competencies expected by the Qatari market.”Gacho also lauded the support provided by the Philippine embassy in Qatar. During the Philippine Forum titled ‘Building Beyond Borders: The Philippine Advantage’ hosted by the POCB on the sidelines of the exhibition, Philippine ambassador Lillibeth V Pono stated in a speech that “Filipinos have played and continue to play an outsized role in spurring the development and progress, not only of Qatar but of the broader GCC region.”Pono also said: “As construction and infrastructure continue to drive the global economy, both the Philippines and Qatar are well-positioned to benefit from each other’s strengths with Filipino companies and professionals offering expertise in project management, architectural design, and engineering solutions, while Qatar provides a thriving and vibrant market with immense potential for growth and innovation.”The POCB is an implementing arm of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP), which is one of the attached agencies of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).POCB is mandated by Presidential Decree No 1167 to promote “the interest of the Philippine construction industry in overseas markets to increase and sustain the export of Philippine-made construction materials and equipment, and technical, managerial, and highly professional construction services.”

Devji Aurum, which recently opened its first shop-in-shop boutique in the country, is the epitome of elegance and luxury, according to Alfardan Jewellery president Ali Alfardan.“They are the Rolls-Royce of Arabic jewellery; their craftsmanship and attention to detail truly set them apart as the best in this field,” Alfardan told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the brand’s grand opening at the Alfardan Boutique inside Doha Festival City.Alfardan, who is also vice-chairman of the Alfardan Group, said Alfardan Jewellery has been working with Devji Aurum for the past 50 years, noting that the brand has developed jewellery that people like to wear during Ramadan, Eid, weddings, and other celebrations.“We are very proud to have this boutique with Devji Aurum. They have improved the traditional heavy Arabic jewellery, making it smaller and more attractive. Their designs are always up-to-date, catering to the current market trends by using natural materials. They are a unique and special company; they are like a family to us,” Alfardan emphasised.Mahesh Devji, managing director of Devji Aurum, emphasised that working with the Alfardan family “has been an honour,” citing that both families have been in partnership since the 1960s. Devji described the grand opening of Devji Aurum at the Alfardan Boutique as a “very important milestone” for the brand. He also expressed gratitude for the mentorship given by Alfardan Group chairman Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan, saying the experience was “truly inspiring.”“We are looking forward to opening many more stores in Qatar with different themes and concepts, and we will try our best to create the best pieces that the region has seen. We have been based in Bahrain, so we are familiar with Arabic taste. And we understand how to manufacture those pieces. But we have also learned a lot from Qatar because the customers’ needs here are amazing,” Devji added.Alfardan Group chairman Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan lauded Devji Aurum for creating a speciality brand for the Arabic market and for continuously innovating and improving their collections to match the requirements and tastes of the region.“They have elevated their designs to the international market by venturing into a more refined aspect of the tradition with a new generation of jewellery. I believe that these designs the collections they are creating will lead to success, capturing the essence of the Gulf,” he added.

An official of the Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) has underscored Canada’s growing interest in the Qatari market, saying this could lead to mutually beneficial collaborations, economic growth, and knowledge exchange.CQBF executive director Yasser Dhouib, who lauded Qatar’s mediator role in regional conflicts in an opinion column in an Ottawa-based newspaper, also emphasised the need to highlight the extensive potential of a Canada-Qatar partnership in diverse economic sectors.“As Canadian interest in Qatar increases, a unique opportunity emerges to leverage Qatar’s knowledge-based economy, which aligns seamlessly with Canada’s innovation-driven industries.“Qatar’s rise as a global financial and tech hub, with a focus on expanding ties in energy and infrastructure, offers Canada tangible benefits. Qatari businesses bring capital, expertise, and a global outlook, contributing to the growth and diversification of Canadian industries,” Dhouib pointed out.Dhouib noted that Qatari investments in Canada have contributed to economic growth and employment generation, spurred research and development (R&D), and played a key role in enhancing the nation’s infrastructure.“As Canada strengthens bilateral relations in the Gulf Cooperation Council, it must ensure Canadian businesses feel confident in this strategic partnership, with investments protected in a stable, compliant environment.“Qatar stands out as a secure destination, earning top ratings from the Financial Action Task Force for its adherence to international financial standards, reassuring global investors, including Canadians,” Dhouib stated.Citing common values in international development, Dhouib said Qatar and Canada have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to bolster collaboration on fostering social and economic advancement in developing countries.“As part of this alignment, Global Affairs Canada and Qatar’s Education Above All Foundation have each committed $40mn to co-fund education initiatives, including UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited, supporting marginalised communities and fostering long-term development.“The 50th anniversary of Canada-Qatar relations should not only celebrate what has been achieved but also challenge both nations to engage in honest, forward-thinking dialogue. For Canada, this means critically assessing how it can leverage its partnership with Qatar to strengthen its international influence. For Qatar, it means continuing to evolve as a regional power that can navigate the complexities of diplomacy without alienating its partners,” Dhouib stressed.He added: “At this critical juncture, both Canada and Qatar have much to gain from a deeper relationship, but only if both countries are willing to engage with the full complexities of their partnership—not as propaganda, but as part of a genuine effort to foster constructive foreign relations.”

A top official of LuLu Group in Qatar has lauded the efforts of the Qatari government in ensuring that the country’s food security is not affected by geopolitical challenges in the region and the wider Middle East.Dr Mohamed Althaf, LuLu Group director of Global Operations, stated that Qatar’s government is working to maintain healthy stock levels of essential products. Dr Althaf emphasised that in recent years, Qatar has significantly increased its food production capacity, thus, becoming more self-reliant and better prepared to handle potential supply challenges.Similarly, Dr Althaf said that while political tensions exist, LuLu Group is also ensuring that geopolitics elsewhere will not affect food supply in countries where the retail giant is operating.“Even if there are any unfortunate geopolitical tensions or even extreme weather conditions, LuLu Group makes sure that we have a very robust supply chain. We are very confident about this after developing a time-tested system to ensure product availability; have survived the pandemic and other challenges without experiencing shortages,” Dr Althaf told Gulf Times on the sidelines of a recent event of the Spanish embassy and LuLu Hypermarket.According to Dr Althaf, LuLu has been expanding its consolidation efforts in Spain, citing two sourcing facilities there. Additionally, Dr Althaf pointed out that LuLu is increasing the group’s presence in Spain and sourcing products directly from Spanish fruit and vegetable suppliers.He explained that LuLu Hypermarkets in Qatar are offering high-quality products from Spain, including organic items, at competitive prices, a strategy that helped LuLu to keep inflation under control regardless of external factors. He also emphasised that Spanish products, particularly bulk items like olive oil, meat, and vegetables, are well-received in Qatar, adding that Spain is a well-known exporter of premium food products.“The popularity of Spanish products in LuLu stores across Qatar, coupled with the company’s commitment to maintaining food supply despite regional conflicts complements Qatar’s increasing self-reliance in food production, thus contributing to supply stability in the country,” Dr Althaf added.Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Spanish ambassador Javier Carbajosa Sanchez highlighted the growing economic relationship between Spain and Qatar, citing food security and agriculture.He noted that Qatar-Spain trade volume currently stands at $1.6bn, “with room for improvement.” According to the ambassador, Spain and Qatar have ongoing efforts to increase investments and improve trade relations through meetings and dialogues between the business sectors of both countries.“I think that we have a lot of room for improving bilateral trade volume. In terms of investment, we are working to make things even easier for both sides. There is an ongoing conversation between the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and our sovereign fund in Madrid, called Compañía Española de Financiación del Desarrollo (COFIDES). We are working to accelerate, expedite, and improve the level and the quality of investments of Qatar in Spain,” Sanchez pointed out.

United Development Company (UDC), the master developer of The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, to foster collaboration on innovative and sustainable solutions in real estate development.The MoU was signed by Ibrahim Jassim al-Othman, UDC president, CEO, and member of the board, and Dr Jack Lau, president of QSTP, on the sidelines of Cityscape Qatar 2024, which concludes Tuesday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).The strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in UDC’s ongoing commitment to integrating smart and sustainable technologies into its developments, further enhancing The Pearl Island and Gewan Island as premier destinations for living, working, and entertainment. The collaboration will focus on areas, such as technological advancements, research and development in environment and sustainability, and the implementation of smart city technologies.Al-Othman said, “This MoU aligns with UDC’s vision of creating sustainable, technologically advanced communities that meet the evolving needs of our residents and investors. Through this partnership with QSTP, we aim to leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality of life in The Pearl and Gewan Islands, while also contributing to Qatar’s national environmental and sustainability goals.”The collaboration will explore various initiatives, including the development of smart sustainable cities, capacity building through training programmes, and research and development (R&D) to support sustainable innovations. Both parties will work closely to ensure the implementation of these projects under joint agreements to achieve impactful, environmentally friendly solutions.Lau said, “At the heart of our mission is the commitment to foster innovation that contributes towards the advancement of a vibrant technological ecosystem in Qatar. We are delighted to establish this collaboration with UDC - a distinguished leader in the real estate sector - to expand our efforts and collectively explore opportunities to advance technological research and development, hi-tech skills building, and the implementation of innovative solutions that will contribute to the growth of smart cities and communities. We look forward to our joint work in promoting smart technologies for a more sustainable environment for all.”As part of the MoU, UDC and QSTP will focus on delivering sustainable, high-tech solutions that will be implemented across both The Pearl Island and Gewan Island. These solutions will include smart energy management, waste reduction systems, and advanced digital infrastructure aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.The collaboration is expected to bring about tangible benefits for investors and residents alike, offering advanced amenities, improved resource management, and a modern, eco-friendly living experience. The integration of these technologies will also create new investment opportunities for businesses looking to engage in sustainable urban development. The MoU reflects UDC's commitment to innovation and sustainability, aligning with Qatar’s Vision 2030 to foster a knowledge-based, environmentally conscious economy.On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, al-Othman told Gulf Times that UDC’s collaboration with QSTP underscores the company’s commitment to the environment, focus on technology and innovation, and continuous initiatives that support sustainability.“UDC is incorporating AI technology for various purposes, including an unmanned boat for water quality monitoring. We are also using AI to support sales and after-sales services and to improve efficiency in building management and maintenance,” he emphasised.Similarly, Lau spoke to this paper about AI applications in real estate and urban management, including the benefits of AI technology and the challenges in AI implementation. He also discussed QSTP's role in AI development, as well as the future of AI and automation.Before the signing ceremony, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani visited the UDC pavilion, which underscored the company’s pivotal role in shaping Qatar's real estate sector. During the visit, the Prime Minister was introduced to UDC's state-of-the-art smart technology and immersive experiences, which are at the heart of the innovative developments on Gewan Island.Additionally, Al-Othman participated in a key discussion panel at the Qatar Real Estate Forum, where his insights on real estate investment opportunities further emphasised UDC's strategic vision and commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Qatar’s thriving real estate landscape.