Author

The participation of a delegation led by the Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) in last month’s Web Summit Qatar 2025 is focused on positioning the country as a gateway for Canadian businesses into the region while reinforcing its role as a technology hub, a CQBF official has said.QBF executive director Yasser Dhouib told Gulf Times that Ibrahim Abdel Halim, senior business adviser and board member, and Vartika Manasvi, senior technology adviser, played a key role in fostering stronger business and technology ties between Canada and Qatar.“The delegation engaged with multiple Qatari stakeholders, facilitating discussions to encourage Canadian companies to explore investment and expansion opportunities in Qatar,” Dhouib pointed out.According to Dhouib, Manasvi was a senior adviser at MaRs, “North America’s largest urban innovation hub and a registered charity.” He noted that Manasvi will be in charge of creating a platform for strategic business partnerships under the auspices of the CQBF for the next four years.Dhouib said the delegation’s key contributions at Web Summit Qatar 2025 include strategic business engagements, holding high-level discussions with various Qatari entities to explore technology, investment, and innovation partnerships, and showcasing Qatar’s potential as a regional hub for Canadian startups and tech firms.To encourage Canadian investment, the CQBF highlighted Qatar’s investment-friendly environment and support for tech-driven enterprises, and promoted collaboration in deep tech, artificial intelligence (AI), health tech, and smart cities, he also noted.To promote deep tech and venture capital initiatives, Dhouib said the CQBF advocated for a Qatar-based Deep Tech Fund, leveraging Canadian expertise in research and development (R&D) and technology commercialisation, and discussed opportunities for joint intellectual property (IP) licensing, venture-building, and talent exchange.Asked about the upcoming CQBF initiatives aimed at strengthening Canadian-Qatari tech and business collaboration, Dhouib said the CQBF is working on strategic projects to enhance innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship between both countries.Among these initiatives are the Deep Tech Fund and Startup Foundry Model, which include a venture capital fund supporting early-stage deep tech startups. The focus areas are energy tech, AI, health tech, and smart cities. Similarly, the CQBF is looking at forging collaboration with Canadian universities to bring cutting-edge research to market.Dhouib said the CQBF’s Entrepreneur-In-Residence (EIR) Programme aims to attract global entrepreneurial talent, develop high-growth tech ventures in Qatar, and support business leaders in commercialising innovative technologies.Another initiative, the ‘Investment & Market Expansion’, is aimed at creating a structured investment framework to fund and scale deep tech startups, and integrating with existing R&D grants to accelerate innovation and commercialisation, he said.Dhouib also announced that Philippe Couillard, the 31st Premier of Quebec, will be leading a delegation of prominent Canadian high-tech companies in healthcare and diabetes-related diseases to Qatar next month. He said Couillard’s visit will be organised by the CQBF, in close partnership with the embassies of both countries.“This adds to the extraordinary impact made by both nations’ top diplomats, Qatar’s ambassador to Canada, Khalid bin Rashid al-Mansouri, who, with his tremendous impact on leading Qatari interest in Canada, has made a huge presence in Ottawa, and Canadian ambassador Isabelle Martin, whose contribution is effective and important,” Dhouib earlier said.

As Qatar emerges as a key global investor and tech hub, many Indian companies are eyeing the country as a springboard to the Gulf region and nearby international markets, said Dr Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group International.Speaking to Gulf Times, Althaf revealed that many Indian businesses see a strategic advantage in establishing connections with Qatar. “Many Indian companies are very enthusiastic because they all want to use Qatar as a springboard to access other markets that Qatar is close to like Africa, the Middle East, and even other countries in Europe, as well as the US.”He highlighted Qatar’s world-class infrastructure as a key attraction. “There is a lot of understanding about trade infrastructure that Qatar created, including the Hamad Port, and we have one of the best airlines in the world, so people understand that from a cargo transportation point of view,” he noted.Althaf also noted that the “enormous respect that Qatar has acquired in the last couple of decades” was highlighted during His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s recent state visit to India.“Previously, Qatar was recognised as a major energy exporter; however, today, I have observed that Qatar’s reputation outside this region, particularly in the south, is that it has emerged as a significant investor in technology and startups,” Althaf pointed out.Witnessing HH the Amir’s state visit to India, Althaf emphasised that many companies there have admired Qatar’s digital transformation. Similarly, he emphasised that business leaders in India were particularly impressed by Qatar’s technological advancement.“The impression of the business leaders I spoke with in India is that Qatar has achieved remarkable digital transformation, smart city projects, and how the country has become a major hub for all kinds of startups and technology; these milestones are very well-admired,” he stressed.According to Althaf, Qatar has made plenty of strides since it hosted a very successful FIFA World Cup in 2022. Since then, the country has transformed its global image from being primarily an energy exporter to a well-recognised investor in technology and startups, Althaf stressed, citing the 2nd edition of Web Summit Qatar held last month.Althaf also noted that Qatar is now “well known as a sports tech event headquarters” following “the fantastic World Cup that we all enjoyed in Qatar,” adding that the country’s “capacity to act as a conflict resolver” has also improved its international standing.Qatar’s educational and research capabilities were also highlighted during discussions, said Althaf, who added: “Qatar’s other institutions have become very popular, like universities and research institutes. In a country like Qatar, we have universities that are ranked in the top 100 in the world.”Evolving beyond transactional relationships, Althaf said a key development in Qatar’s international relations has been the progression from purely trade-based interactions to more integrated partnerships.“Qatar-India relations, as well as the country’s ties with many other countries in the south, are progressing beyond transactions. Before it was an export-import relationship, but Qatar is now discussing co-investing, developing, nurturing, and helping countries around the world,” Althaf stated.

The Qatar-Ukraine Business Forum (QUBF), in close collaboration with the Embassy of Ukraine in Qatar and the Qatar Government Communications Office (GCO), has hosted the visit of promising Ukrainian startups to showcase various projects in Qatar.QUBF chairperson Dr Olga Revina stated to Gulf Times that the visit of the startups from Ukraine was among the key highlights of the forum’s participation in the Web Summit Qatar 2025 held last month.Another QUBF achievement during the summit was the establishment of the Qatar-Ukraine Tech & Innovation Committee, which aims to facilitate co-operation in technology and innovation between Qatar and Ukraine, Revina pointed out.“The committee aims to contribute to the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) 2024-2030, where strengthening the innovative ecosystem is one of the priorities,” she also explained.In January 2024, the government of Qatar launched the NDS3, which is the final stage of the country’s journey towards achieving the goals of its ambitious Qatar National Vision 2030.Launched in 2008, the national vision aims to transform Qatar into an advanced state capable of achieving sustainable development and ensuring the continuation of a decent life for its people for generations to come, through four basic pillars that include human, social, economic, and environmental development.Revina emphasised that Ukraine’s startups have a strong potential to contribute to NDS3 and, consequently, to Qatar National Vision 2030, owing to their strong expertise and advances in technology and innovation.“Because of its expanding talent pool, increasing startup activity, and advancements across various technological fields, Ukraine's technology and innovation sector is emerging as a significant player in the global economy,” Revina stressed.She noted that Ukraine’s tech and innovation sector has made major achievements in the following fields: IT outsourcing and software development, startups and entrepreneurship, AI and data science, blockchain and cryptocurrencies, tech education and innovation hubs, e-government and digital transformation, cybersecurity, and venture capital investment.“Ukraine has become one of the top outsourcing destinations in the world. Ukrainian IT professionals are highly skilled, with strong expertise in software development, AI, machine learning, and blockchain technology. The country’s tech talent is sought after by global companies.“Ukraine's startup ecosystem has flourished, particularly in cities like Kyiv, Lviv, and Kharkiv. The number of tech startups has been growing, and Ukrainian entrepreneurs are known for developing innovative solutions in areas like fintech, health tech, and e-commerce. Ukraine’s strong tech talent pool has been a major factor in this success,” Revina pointed out.She said, “Ukrainian researchers and developers have contributed significantly to AI and data science fields. Ukraine has been home to various AI-focused companies, and the country has seen growth in AI research, particularly in machine learning and neural networks.“Ukraine has a strong educational foundation in science and technology. The country’s universities and tech hubs, like UNIT.City in Kyiv is nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and tech innovators. Many tech firms also collaborate with universities to promote research and development.”Revina stressed that venture capital investment in Ukraine has grown, with numerous funds focusing on tech startups. “These investments are further propelling the growth of Ukraine's innovation sector,” she added.

Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Company (QIMC) is eyeing to open the Corniche Park Towers, one of its ambitious real estate projects, in the first quarter of the year, according to a top official.“[The] Corniche Park Towers, which, according to specialists, is a new architectural masterpiece that will adorn the Doha Skyline,” QMIC chairman Sheikh AbdulRahman Mohammed Jabor al-Thani told shareholders during the company’s Annual General Assembly held recently in Doha.The Corniche Park Towers is part of the company’s strategy to diversify investments and add quality to QIMC’s investment portfolio, stated Sheikh AbdulRahman, who explained that “the towers will provide an exceptional living and working experience by combining elegant design and contemporary architecture for luxury offices and apartments with excellent facilities, making it an ideal destination for housing and investment. Work is underway to open it in the first quarter of 2025.”During the meeting, Sheikh AbdulRahman also announced the start of production at QIMC’s Gulf Glass Factory, the company’s latest project in its industrial products portfolio.He noted that the factory is part of the company’s objectives to enhance local production and meet the growing demand for industrial products. “The facility for producing high-quality glass containers will contribute to meeting the needs of the local and regional markets and enhancing the growth of the manufacturing sector in Qatar,” he pointed out.Work is also underway at one of QIMC’s subsidiaries, Qatar Wood and Plastic Products Company, for future expansion to meet the industrial needs of the country, according to Sheikh AbdulRahman.Other subsidiaries, Qatar Sand Treatment Plant and Qatar Paving Stones continue to supply the Qatari market with high-quality washed sand and paving stones, while the Gasal Industrial Gases Company in both Mesaieed Industrial City and Ras Laffan Industrial City continues to supply the market’s industrial projects, “achieving excellent financial results consistently,” noted Sheikh AbdulRahman, who added that the “efforts of the remaining companies continue in attracting and reaching new markets across the globe.”Sheikh AbdulRahman also told shareholders: “I am pleased to review the performance of QIMC for the year 2024. It was a year full of challenges that we faced with continuous development and adaptation to market challenges, to achieve the expected returns and enhance the company’s position in the industrial sector within the country.“We are proud of our investment in 21 industrial projects in the State of Qatar, which constitutes the core of our long-term strategic plan. These projects vary in multiple industrial fields, contributing to enhancing our production capabilities and expanding our presence in various sectors.”

The Qatar-Ukraine Business Forum (QUBF) has established the Qatar-Ukraine Tech & Innovation Committee to facilitate co-operation in technology and innovation between Qatar and Ukraine.In a statement to Gulf Times, Dr Olga Revina, chairperson of QUBF, said the official agreement signing ceremony was held on the sidelines of Web Summit Qatar 2025, which successfully concluded its second edition.Revina explained that the committee operates under the umbrella of QUBF, which was established in 2018 to support Qatar-Ukraine partnerships across diversified industries. “QUBF is pioneering the collaboration in the tech and innovation sector between Qatari and Ukrainian counterparts,” Revina pointed out.The Qatar side of the committee is chaired by Sheikh Mansoor bin Khalifa al-Thani, founder and Chairman of MBK Holding, a global ecosystem builder and investor, while the Ukraine side is led by UNIT.City, Ukraine’s first and largest innovation park that nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs and tech innovators.Revina further explained that the Qatar-Ukraine Tech & Innovation Committee replicates and extends successful bilateral collaboration models and focuses on the following objectives: fostering co-operation between Qatari and Ukrainian companies, NGOs, and government authorities to facilitate co-operation in innovation and technology; facilitating leading Ukrainian startups to enter the Qatari marketplace, as well as introducing Qatari companies to the Ukrainian market’s opportunities.Acting as a medium for sharing information and knowledge regarding digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, fintech, and other technology innovations; and promoting co-operation for developing joint investment projects and technology partnerships between counterparts of Qatar and Ukraine.“We feel honoured to have the Tech & Innovation Committee act as a bilateral forum and unite representatives of both Qatari and Ukrainian businesses, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the government.A comprehensive action plan for the year ahead has been established, including workshops, hackathons, e-forums, information exchange sessions, and other events,” Revina said.She underscored Ukraine’s strong expertise and significant strides in the tech and innovation sector in recent years “despite facing ongoing geopolitical challenges,” saying “Ukraine’s tech and innovation sector is positioned to be a key player in the global economy, with its growing pool of talent, increasing startup activity, and emerging advancements in various technological domains.”

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines is ramping up efforts through initiatives like the Outbound Business Matching Mission (OBMM) to help Filipino companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access the Qatar market and expand their international presence.“Part of the government’s plan is supporting SMEs to grow. And that’s where DTI comes in to have these types of programmes for the SMEs to grow bigger. Not just within the Philippines but to internationalise and access international markets,” said Vince Lorenzo Liwanag, Commercial Attaché of the Philippine Trade Investment Centre (PTIC) – Riyadh.Speaking to Gulf Times, Liwanag explained that the OBMM is one of the DTI’s key initiatives designed to connect Filipino businesses with international partners. According to Liwanag, the recently concluded Qatar leg of the OBMM marked the first major activity organised by DTI Riyadh, which opened in November last year.Liwanag said the participating companies during the OBMM represented a wide range of sectors, including fresh/frozen produce, processed foods, and personal care and pharmaceuticals. While in Qatar, the Philippine delegation visited different hypermarkets in Doha and held B2B meetings with their counterparts in the country.Acknowledging that “while there’s still room for growth,” Liwanag pointed out that Filipino businesses are keen on looking for opportunities to expand their footprints in other international markets.“The positive reception of Philippine companies to DTI initiatives like the OBMM reflect a robust interest to expand overseas, meaning there’s already this mindset among our SMEs to grow beyond the confines of the Philippine market, and the OBMM has highlighted this strong inclination to internationalise,” Liwanag emphasised.Citing Filipino brand Century Pacific Food, Inc, Liwanag said the company’s various products have already established a strong presence in the Qatari market. “They’re not just targeting Filipinos; they’re targeting generally all the population. This showcases a clear commitment from our companies to establish a global presence and compete on an international scale,” he noted.During the Qatar leg of the OBMM, Philippine ambassador Mardomel Celo D Melicor addressed the participants, citing the Philippines’ long-term vision, the ‘AmBisyon Natin 2040’. He emphasised that “efficient manufacturing and exporting infrastructure are essential to achieving economic development by 2040.”Underscoring the importance of eyeing global markets and how this will benefit the Philippines’ economic well-being, Melicor said: “This openness will also help attract investments to our country, particularly from Qatar... I believe there are always niche opportunities for collaboration between the Philippines and Qatar.”Ends

A Qatar-based payment infrastructure startup has witnessed significant growth since its establishment in 2021, from providing small merchants with digital solutions some four years ago to processing transactions for the country’s major enterprises today.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of Web Summit Qatar 2025, Dibsy co-founder Ahmed Isse said the company has established its role as a key player in the country’s digital payment landscape, helping a diverse range of domestic businesses accept payments through multiple channels, including credit and debit cards, as well as mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.Since its inception during the Covid-19 pandemic, Isse and co-founders Loyan Farah and Anouar el-Mekki have focused on helping small businesses that didn’t have a website or mobile app. Soon after, Isse said large companies also tapped their expertise in innovations like embedded checkout and tokenisation, as well as anti-fraud solutions.Dibsy’s latest achievement, according to Isse, is the company’s partnership with QNB, allowing it to be the first bank in CEMEA (Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa) to launch the updated version of Visa’s ‘Click to Pay’ service.Asked about other partnerships with other local companies, Isse noted that as a regulated payment service provider under the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), Dibsy exclusively serves Qatar-based businesses.“We’re focused on providing digital payment solutions to local companies in Qatar as the Qatar Central Bank regulates us. From small businesses to large entities, we can onboard these businesses within 48 hours, provided they have the proper documentation,” Isse explained.Asked about Dibsy’s expansion plans, Isse noted that the company currently focuses on the Qatari market. “But we are planning to expand hopefully soon; we will make the necessary announcements,” he said.Regarding Web Summit Qatar, Isse was impressed by the growth from last year's inaugural event. He revealed that Dibsy’s foundation was born in Web Summit when he and el-Mekki met in Lisbon, Portugal. “The presence of Web Summit in Doha is a great advantage to many entrepreneurs and the event has opened Qatar to many international startups,” he said.When asked about artificial intelligence (AI) integration, Isse indicated that while it is not an immediate focus for Dibsy, AI could eventually help with fraud management and automate repetitive tasks.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are driving Qatar’s ambitious digital transformation, industry leaders highlighted on the sidelines of Web Summit Qatar, which concluded on Wednesday.Speaking at the ‘Building Partnerships to Drive Success’ panel discussion, Sheikh Ali bin Jabor bin Mohammad al-Thani, CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, and Ghassan Kosta, regional general manager of Google Cloud, discussed how collaboration between their organisations played a key role in the national innovation agenda.Sheikh Ali and Kosta also shared insights on how strategic collaborations between Ooredoo and Google Cloud, especially PPPs, are accelerating innovation across Qatar’s economy.According to Sheikh Ali, PPPs represent “the right model for us in Qatar” by “bringing the best of both worlds,” citing the strategic Qatar National Vision 2030, public sector resources, and the private sector’s innovation and agility.Echoing Sheikh Ali’s sentiment, Kosta, who pointed to Qatar’s national development strategy, said: “If you look at Qatar National Vision 2030, it clearly outlines the ambition to transform the nation from a carbon-based economy to a knowledge-based economy.“And this cannot happen in isolation. It needs collaboration – a strong collaborative ecosystem bringing together the government, the private, and global vendors,” said Kosta.Sheikh Ali emphasised that as Qatar positions itself as a global innovation hub, Ooredoo has aligned its strategic initiatives with national priorities.He said, “Qatar is creating a platform where innovation meeting opportunities. At Ooredoo, we know that we are at the forefront of delivering that vision from the early days, and we continue investing or adopting advanced technology and investing in our resilience and infrastructure,” Sheikh Ali noted.Sheikh Ali also emphasised that Ooredoo Qatar has strategically positioned itself to support the country’s digital agenda through smart cities, digital health, and educational technology advancements, among other various initiatives.Kosta underscored that Google Cloud’s investment in Qatar represents “another significant pillar” in this collaborative ecosystem, highlighting the milestone achievement of opening “the first region for Google Cloud in the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa from Qatar” in May 2023.Both executives highlighted how AI and data analytics are transforming Ooredoo-Google Cloud partnerships with Kosta sharing several examples, including a collaboration with Ooredoo that involved “moving its full data lake to Google Cloud and leveraging our AI and data analytics platform to gain more insights about the customer needs.”He said another significant project was the ‘Qatar Art Beat’ initiative, launched during Qatar National Day in partnership with MediaCity.Kosta explained that the AI-powered project captured citizens’ sentiments about their nation and generated an artwork that earned a Guinness World Record for “the most interactive impressions for an AI-generated artwork.”Sheikh Ali explained the distinction between data and AI, noting that while Ooredoo has always handled large amounts of data, partnerships with technology leaders have unlocked new value.He said, “When we start leveraging through partnering with the right technology leaders, through adopting the advanced analytic data tools and machine learning from our guys in Google, the same data that we used to process it before, we unlock a huge opportunity.”Sheikh Ali also announced Ooredoo’s recent AI initiatives, including the ‘O-Bot’, an AI chatbot powered by Microsoft designed to provide real-time customer support, as well as a “first in the region” – Ooredoo’s new deviceless TV approach with embedded AI, which will replace its old set-up box.The panel discussion acknowledged that technological advancement requires a skilled workforce.Kosta spoke about Google Cloud’s commitment to talent development through its Centre of Excellence inside the Qatar Free Zone, which has trained over 6,000 participants between 2021 and 2024.He further said Google Cloud has also launched an overseas internship programme with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), sending 16 Qatari professionals to Google’s Dublin facilities for a three-month training programme.Concluding the discussion, Sheikh Ali called for Qatar to “maintain all whatever brought our success today” while continuing to “embrace animation, strategic partnership, and the need to invest in talent and infrastructure.”Reaffirming the critical importance of partnerships, Kosta added: “The power of partnership is crucial and beneficial for Qatar’s future and growth. It’s all about unlocking innovation and driving success.”Ends

Super apps can leverage local expertise by offering a diverse range of services that cater to the varied needs of customers, the top official of a homegrown popular delivery service stated during a panel discussion at Web Summit Qatar 2025’s Centre Stage.Hamad al-Hajri, the founder and CEO of Snoonu, made the statement in the discussion of ‘Building the Global Super App’ with co-panellists Philipp Kandal, chief product officer of Grab, and Juan Pablo Ortega, co-founder and CEO of Yuno, who previously co-founded Rappi.Al-Hajri explained that a super app’s unique advantage over other mobile applications is its ability to harness local expertise because they are designed to offer many services and solutions to specific customer needs.When multiple functionalities are integrated into a single platform, al-Hajri further explained that super apps are thoroughly equipped to address diverse consumer demands while, at the same time, allowing for regional preferences and cultural nuances.Al-Hajri highlighted that aside from delivery services, Snoonu is focused on addressing “hyper-local needs” including unique services like “fine dining” and “drive-through” options that cater to local preferences.“We are the first to offer four different environments,” explained al-Hajri, adding that this localised approach both enhances user experience and fosters deeper customer loyalty because the services offered are tailored to resonate with the distinct lifestyles and requirements of the Qatari market.He added: “As a super app, you’re going to always have a competitive advantage to solve local problems. And when you have a local champion, a successful story, you’re going to get support from both the customer and even your business partner.”According to Ortega, Rappi’s growth was guided by user behaviour. He said, “We started as a delivery app of supermarkets and restaurants... and we started seeing that people order electronics, people order different things, and that’s kind of how we basically following user preference and we started adding more services.”Asked about selecting which services to integrate, Kandal explained that Grab’s approach began with mobility before expanding to food delivery and financial services, among others.Kandal said, “We served our drivers and our merchants, and allow them ultimately to have a better life by earning more. When we launched food, we saw that mobility services are primarily in the morning and peak in the evenings, but in the afternoon, the drivers are idle, so adding food has exactly opposite peak hours, so we can keep our drivers more busy across the entire day.”Ends

The second edition of Web Summit Qatar, which concludes today, has experienced an impressive surge in participation from various startups across the country, Web Summit CEO Paddy Cosgrave said on Tuesday.Speaking at a press conference, Cosgrave noted that Web Summit Qatar 2025 welcomed 228 Doha-based startups, marking a staggering 140% increase compared to the 95 companies that took part in last year’s inaugural edition.Addressing a question from Gulf Times, Cosgrave emphasised that the increase in the participation of domestic startups reflects the region’s burgeoning entrepreneurial landscape and shines the spotlight on the growing interest and investment in tech and innovation among local businesses.The Web Summit top executive also lauded Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor al-Thani, director of the Government Communications Office and chairman of the Web Summit Permanent Organising Committee, for ensuring the success of the event since its Qatar debut in 2024.Cosgrave noted that this year’s summit attracted 723 investors and 1,520 startups representing 90 countries. In total, 228 of these startups are Qatar-based, while 85% are from the rest of the world. He also said over 47% of participating startups are women-founded, reflecting a 51% growth from last year.“Some of the top themes include the Middle East’s emergence as a major tech hub fuelled by strategic investments in a whole range of different areas. There’s a lot of talks of financial inequality in the future of fintech, while generative AI has been dominating topics across almost all stages,” Cosgrave said.He noted that since its inaugural event, Web Summit Qatar has witnessed remarkable success stories, specifically among Qatari startups, many of whom had the opportunity to network with key industry figures.These interactions were instrumental in facilitating their growth and expansion into new and larger markets around the world, Cosgrave pointed out, adding that Qatar’s entrepreneurial landscape is thriving, marked by innovation and collaboration.

Web Summit Qatar’s successful inaugural edition last year has prompted an influx of startups, the majority of which are from a wide range of countries worldwide, thus driving business growth and innovation in tech, a top executive of retail giant LuLu Group has said.Qatar’s first-ever Web Summit in 2024 offered many global startups to study the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, said Dr Mohamed Althaf, Director, LuLu Group.“A significant number of international startups visited Qatar to explore the opportunities presented by the country’s burgeoning tech innovation landscape. Their interactions with their counterparts here have laid the groundwork for future collaborations and advancements,” Althaf told Gulf Times.He also said, “I am confident that the insights they have gained from these engagements will not only spur further interest but also lead to concrete actions and initiatives in the near future, reflecting a promising outlook for both domestic and international enterprises looking to thrive in the country’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.”He also pointed out that pre-summit engagement has been significant, with many companies, particularly those in e-commerce, payment solutions, and digital marketing, already laying the groundwork.“Even people like us are receiving a lot of inquiries and many offers from companies, especially on e-commerce, payment solutions, and digital marketing companies. The momentum is building, with many international tech startups, including India and Portugal, converging on Qatar,” he pointed out.Althaf said Qatar, which is undergoing rapid and robust digital transformation, is strategically positioned in a region with a young and digitally savvy population. “At the same time, Qatar’s backyard comprises countries where technology and the youth are evolving.“Qatar is accessible via airline connectivity and easy visa regimes, among other factors. Many international companies keep coming and this indicates that many deals are going to be secured at the summit this year,” he explained, citing some 800 startups from India alone are exploring the possibility of visiting the country.Althaf also emphasised that Qatar’s strategic location in the region and favourable business environment serve as an ideal springboard for global tech startups looking to expand into neighbouring countries.Qatar’s smart city infrastructure, exemplified by developments in Msheireb Downtown Doha and Lusail, also positions the country as an attractive destination for tech companies, he said.Althaf said, “Qatar’s readiness to embrace new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), as well as generative AI, make it a prime location for pilot projects like cognitive cities.He said he remains optimistic about Qatar’s ability to continue attracting interest from tech developers, playing a key role in new urban living and enhancing the lives of its citizens and residents.

Implementing a culture of “AI ownership” in the workplace could enhance overall company operations and promote a more positive perspective surrounding artificial intelligence among employees.Khalid Mohamed al-Kubaisi, the CEO of Doha-based technology services and solutions provider, malomatia, shared his company’s AI journey during a panel discussion titled ‘Building Cultural Bridges between AI and Human Teams’ during Web Summit Qatar Monday.He was joined by industry experts Awdesh Chetal, CEO of HyperThink Systems, and Kenza Ait Si Abbou, CTO, board member of Fiege Logistik. The discussion was moderated by Ayesha Chowdhury, senior manager, Global Digital Business & Senior Leadership Board Advisor at the BBC.During the discussion, he highlighted the significance of giving employees ownership of AI initiatives. After making their employees ambassadors of AI, al-Kubaisi noted that malomatia witnessed remarkable improvements in customer experience processes.“By involving employees in AI implementation, we were able to achieve a 12% reduction in average handling time per transaction,” noted al-Kubaisi emphasising that the strategy both yielded impressive results and reduced resistance to AI adoption.He also pointed out that the approach not only promotes a more positive perspective on AI but also encourages innovation and collaboration among team members. Al-Kubaisi believes that as employees become more accustomed to various AI tools and their applications, this will improve efficiency and lead to better results for the company.Abbou, meanwhile, underscored the significance of reassuring employees who feel disconnected due AI’s rapid integration in the workplace. According to Abbou, “47%” of employees perceive AI as a threat, citing a Gartner study. She said it is important for managers to educate teams and offer upskilling opportunities, as well as ensure that employees feel involved in the ideation and development phases of AI solutions.“We include them in the ideation phase, from the design of those solutions, so that it is like their baby,” she explained, noting that this approach significantly enhances AI adoption.Chetal, on the other hand, forecasts a hybrid workforce and job transformation going forward. He said repetitive tasks would likely transition to AI, while mission-critical tasks requiring supervisory, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking should be handled by humans.“Humans will drive AI,” Chetal noted, citing parallels with the Industrial Revolution and predicting a similar job transformation rather than loss. He also underlined the need of retraining and building internal capabilities to adapt to this new reality.

Domestic and international real estate developers stand to gain from global investment opportunities being offered by Qatari Diar, which has 50 ongoing development projects in 20 countries worldwide with a combined value of around “$35bn”, an official has said.Khalifa al-Mana, senior manager, City Control Centre and Smart Operations at Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, made the statement during a media tour of Lusail City and several prime areas.The media tour commemorated the development of Lusail, Qatari Diar’s flagship project – touted as the country’s “smart city of the future”, which began 20 years ago. The tour also provided participating journalists the opportunity to explore two decades’ worth of Lusail’s transformative journey and its role in cementing Qatar’s position as a premier business and leisure hub.Local and international property developers have a wide range of investment opportunities in Huzoom, The Seef, and Lusail Boulevard, said al-Mana, who noted that Lusail is home to key attractions, such as Place Vendome, Meryal Waterpark, and Al Maha Island.According to al-Mana, Qatar’s real estate market was valued at “$485bn” in 2024, “attracting the most foreign direct investments after the energy sector”. In the past few years, he said the real estate industry witnessed “notable growth”, driven by the following factors: an increase in demand for residential and retail spaces, robust visitor growth, and Qatar’s hosting of mega-events, as well as developments in the business and trade sector.He said: “Qatar is paving the way for investment with new property ownership laws for foreigners and amendments to mortgage regulations, which came into effect in 2023.“Our ambitions are to harness our resources and capabilities to provide sustainable development of high quality, careful planning and the use of innovative methods in the world of real estate.”Lusail’s 20-year development journey represents a bold step forward in sustainable, smart urban living, al-Mana pointed out. “Known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and forward-thinking design, Lusail offers a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment districts... by leveraging AI technologies and interactive applications, we aim to offer superior smart city experiences that make the city more efficient and sustainable,” he explained.Spanning 38mn sq m, representing “$45bn” worth of infrastructure investment - al-Mana noted - Lusail is “the largest real estate project in Qatar.”The new Huzoom Lusail district, which is 15km from central Doha on Lusail’s northern edge was master-planned as a high-quality, low-density residential community, said al-Mana, who added that some of its features include 2,863 villa plots of various sizes and connectivity to city-wide public transport with easy access to the Lusail Expressway and Al Khor Coastal Road.As Lusail’s “crown jewel”, Qetaifan Island offers unique panoramic sea views. “Privacy is an integral part of the Qetaifan Islands lifestyle. The islands offer land buyers freehold ownership and residency in Qatar,” al-Mana said.Al-Mana noted that The Seef is Lusail’s high-profile waterfront district, home to luxury contemporary living at its finest. “The streetscapes, open spaces and waterfront promenade are linked to an efficient and sustainable transportation system – comprising the Light Rail Transit (LRT) network, pedestrian pathways, roads and cycle routes, a promenade trolley system and even water taxis,” he said.Al Tarfa is Lusail’s hub for landmark attractions, as well as for leisure and recreation activities and venues, integrated seamlessly into a sustainable, sophisticated urban environment, al-Mana said.Al Maha Island is the ultimate entertainment and leisure hotspot for Qatar and international tourism, located across Lusail Marina promenade and linked to the mainland via a causeway. It features Lusail Winter Wonderland with more than 50 rides for families and other fun activities and amenities, the world-renowned Nammos Beach Club, and a high-end dining district.Spanning 1.3km, Lusail Boulevard was modelled after the Avenue des Champs-Élysées comprising a range of mixed-use, upscale retail, offices, and premium residential units, all intricately designed and built to world-class quality standards in every detail, al-Mana further explained.Another strategic district is the location of the Lusail Stadium, which was the largest venue of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, with a seating capacity of 88,966 spectators. “The stadium’s design is inspired by the interplay of light and shadow, reminiscent of traditional lanterns (the Arabic fanous). It also reflects the intricate patterns found on handcrafted bowls and vessels commonly used in Arab and Islamic culture,” he said.On sustainability, al-Mana said: “Lusail was the first development in Qatar to endorse Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) in the region... all Lusail buildings hold a GSAS rating of at least two stars, having successfully achieved targets for energy consumption efficiency, water conservation, local material sourcing and recycling, outdoor environment quality, as well as management and operations.”He also said: “The Lusail District Cooling System, designed and provided by Marafeq Qatar, will save 65mn tonnes of CO2 annually. Upon its completion, the system will serve about 1,000 buildings through 175km (supply and return) of underground piping from four cooling plants. The system involves chilled water in pipes that are fed to each locality via an underground tunnel in the Marina district and through an extensive network throughout Lusail City.”Al-Mana emphasised that Lusail’s dynamic real estate market offers substantial growth potential for investors, with freehold ownership and residency in Qatar offered to buyers. “In 2020, the Qatari government introduced unprecedented property ownership reforms that mean non-Qataris are now eligible to invest in the Qatar real estate sector for the first time. These new government policies have been enacted to strengthen Qatar’s economic growth and develop the real estate sector. Eligibility falls into two categories,” he added.

Rather than replacing humans, AI-human collaboration will shape the future workplace, according to tech industry leaders and academics during a recent panel discussion hosted by Startup Grind Qatar.Titled ‘The Rise of AI Employees: Are We Ready for it’, the panel comprised executives from Google, Scale AI, Kaic.ai, and the Arab Centre for Research and Policy Studies, who differentiated current AI capabilities and complete workplace automation.Dr Chawki Tawbi, Data & AI lead at Google, announced the launch of its ‘Agentspace’ platform, which would connect Google employees with AI assistants to access existing workplace tools and data sources, with capabilities spanning HR, accounting, and research functions.“Agentspace will enable employees to use a search engine on top of all their data sources and their day-to-day applications... we are helping to improve and increase productivity and help employees focus on more creative tasks,” he explained.Sahil Bhaiwala, director and general manager, Global Public Sector at Scale AI, emphasised that the distinction between AI and traditional automation is a crucial point of discussion, citing robotic process automation (RPA). According to Bhaiwala, today's AI capabilities for processing language, images, and videos in a human-like manner are more advanced and concerning than previous automation tools.“That’s why these conversations now versus two years ago are much more pressing to have because we’re starting to see the inklings of this getting more and more real,” Bhaiwala pointed out, referring to RPA.Firas Sleiman, founder and CEO of Kaic.ai, offered a practical framework regarding job displacement, saying, any job that can be defined by data and a set process, with minimal thinking or ethical decision-making involved, is highly suitable for AI.“That job, if you can define it that way, is at the top of the list of what an AI employee can do. An orchestration machine will do exactly what it’s told to do. When you give it data, models, and steps that it needs to run, it will run them, and then the output comes out. This concept applies across various industries, each having its own tier of jobs that align with this definition,” he explained.However, Dr Fadi Zaraket, unit director at the Arab Centre for Research and Policy Studies, cautioned about AI’s limitations and advocated for developing expertise in multiple domains to remain relevant in an AI-enhanced workplace.Zaraket emphasised the importance of establishing “smaller LLMs (large language models) that we have control of” as a crucial strategy to ensure data privacy while still capitalising on advanced capabilities provided by AI.The panel also underscored the critical need to maintain human oversight in areas of ethical decision-making and strategic planning. They highlighted that, although certain job functions could be automated, it is essential to prioritise the use of AI as a tool to enhance human skills and creativity.

The Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) will be leading a dozen Canadian companies specialising in the field of high-tech to Doha as part of its participation in the upcoming Web Summit Qatar, an official has said.CQBF executive director Yasser Dhouib told Gulf Times in a statement from Montreal that the delegation will be led by the forum’s newly-appointed high-tech and AI adviser, Vartika Manasvi. He said the delegation represents a dozen innovators across digital transformation, clean energy, carbon capture, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum sectors.Manasvi was a senior adviser at MaRs, “North America’s largest urban innovation hub and a registered charity,” which “provides direct support for startups, builds communities of innovators, and accelerates the adoption of high-impact solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues,” Dhouib said, citing the organisation’s website.“The goal of this visit is to explore potential partnerships with Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and other institutions in Qatar to collaborate on pilot projects, technology transfer, and the commercialisation of advanced solutions.“Our Canadian companies are interested in establishing a local presence in Qatar to capitalise on these opportunities. Manasvi will be in charge of creating a platform for strategic business partnerships under the auspices of the Canadian-Qatari Business Forum for the next four years,” Dhouib explained.Dhouib noted that Web Summit Qatar, slated from Feb 23 to 26 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), fosters the CQBF’s resolve to create a strategic partnership between Canada’s ecosystem and its Qatari counterparts. He emphasised that Doha is leading the region for more growth and a wide range of opportunities for Canadian high-tech and know-how.“The Canadian-Qatari Business Forum is taking part in the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, building on its successful participation last year. The CQBF is reaping the momentum created by the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Canada last September, where he participated with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Qatar’s diplomatic relations with Canada,” Dhouib said.In a related development, Dhouib said a delegation of prominent Canadian high-tech companies in healthcare and diabetes-related diseases will also visit Qatar this April, including Diagnos Medical, a leading Quebec-based company. The visit will be organised by CQBF, in close partnership with the embassies of both countries.Dhouib said Philippe Couillard, the 31st Premier of Quebec, will be leading the delegation.“This adds to the extraordinary impact made by both nations’ top diplomats, Qatar’s ambassador to Canada, Khalid bin Rashid al-Mansouri, who, with his tremendous impact on leading Qatari interest in Canada, has made a huge presence in Ottawa, and Canadian ambassador Isabelle Martin, whose contribution is effective and important,” Dhouib added.

Austria is exploring opportunities to expand its trade ties with Qatar, citing the Gulf state as a “promising” market for high-quality Austrian food exports.In a recent dinner reception in Doha, Austrian ambassador Erika Bernhard and Austrian business leader Christoph Kastner expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral trade relations, particularly in the food sector.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event, Kastner, who serves as the deputy chair of the Committee for Food Trade at the Austrian Federal Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Kastner Group, identified Qatar as a promising market for Austrian food products.“Austria produces very high-quality products, particularly in food. I believe there is significant potential for Austrian companies to establish business connections here in Qatar,” emphasised Kastner after visiting the hypermarkets of regional retail giant LuLu Group.While Kastner lauded Qatar’s progress in domestic food production and efforts to achieve self-sufficiency, particularly in the dairy sector, he also emphasised that there are abundant opportunities for premium Austrian products in the Qatari market.“We recognise the developments in Qatar’s food production in a wide range of sectors, but at the same time, we are confident that Austrian and other European products that are of high quality have a very good chance in this market.“Beyond basic products like milk and dairy, our focus is bringing high-quality food here,” Kastner explained, adding that there are also opportunities for Austrian food producers and wholesalers in the country.Both Kastner and the ambassador emphasised the importance of exchanging best practices and building stronger bilateral relations, citing Austria’s ranking as one of the top 10 countries globally for food safety. They also underscored the country’s membership in the Consumer Goods Forum as a significant advantage for potential partnerships.Bernhard said Austrian food products already have a stronger presence in Qatar than most consumers realise. “There is a wide availability of organic juices and cookies, among many other products, so it’s quite well-provided, but I’m sure there is space for more,” the ambassador pointed out.In a speech during the dinner reception, Bernhard announced that Austria and Qatar are celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations this year, emphasising both countries’ strong partnership across political, business, and cultural domains during a recent reception dinner.The ambassador also lauded Qatar’s critical role in international mediation, expressing gratitude for the Gulf nation’s diplomatic support: “Qatar is an extremely important partner when it comes to international mediation.”

German ambassador Lothar Freischlader has lauded Qatar for positioning itself as an “attractive production hub,” citing the key roles played by German companies like Siemens, Kemroc, and DHL Express.All three firms are members of the German Business Council Qatar (GBCQ), Freischlader noted in his speech during the GBCQ’s recently held Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Doha.“Another strategic investment is the Qatar Investment Authority’s stake in Sauber Holding AG, which will become Audi’s factory team in Formula 1 by 2026 – an investment that reflects Qatar’s confidence in German automotive innovation,” the ambassador pointed out.Citing the Blue Ammonia Project and the new service centre of Siemens Energy, Freischlader emphasised that German companies “continue to play a pivotal role” in Qatar’s industrial expansion.“The Blue Ammonia Project, where Thyssenkrupp Uhde has partnered with QatarEnergy on a $1.2bn facility, marking a milestone in sustainable energy. Siemens Energy’s newly inaugurated service centre in the Qatar Free Zones reinforces its long-term commitment to the region,” he said.Freischlader said, “As climate change emerges as a critical global challenge and with climate foreign policy at the centre stage in Germany's international efforts, we are also poised to play a pivotal role in fostering climate collaboration between Germany and Qatar.“As a new Core Climate Embassy, we are proud that we were able to conduct our first high-level Doha Climate Talk last October – embedded in the Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change (QNDCC) with Germany as a partner country.”He further said, “This dialogue was hosted by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. The German embassy, together with AHK, were official partners. We look forward to more Doha Climate Talks in 2025 and to further deepen our bilateral climate co-operation with more partners here in Qatar.”According to Freischlader, the GBCQ has been instrumental in fostering Qatari-German business relations, which the ambassador described as “a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for a prosperous future.”Since its inception in 2002, Freischlader said the GBCQ has provided a platform for German and Qatari companies to connect, collaborate, and thrive. Through events, dialogues, and advocacy, the GBCQ has strengthened Germany-Qatar economic ties, noted the ambassador, who is also an honorary board member of the GBCQ.The German embassy, in co-operation with the AHK and the GBCQ, regularly engages with German companies in Qatar to address their concerns and support their success, Freischlader said.He added: “For decades, Germany and Qatar have enjoyed a robust economic partnership, spanning key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology, and healthcare. This collaboration has not only bolstered trade and investment but has also fostered cultural and intellectual exchanges.“High-level visits further underscore our commitment to deepening ties. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s regular visits to Berlin last October and most recently, the visit of our Federal Minister of Finance to Doha, highlight our shared ambitions and pave the way for future co-operation.”

The Department of Trade and Industry in the Philippines concluded yesterday the Qatar leg of its three-day Outbound Business Matching Mission (OBMM), which saw the participation of a dozen exporting companies seeking to access the Gulf and Middle East markets.Vince Lorenzo Liwanag, the Commercial Attaché of the Philippine Trade Investment Centre (PTIC) – Riyadh, Department of Trade and Industry, told Gulf Times that the next OBMMs will be held in Amman, Jordan from February 9-11; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (February 11-13); and concludes in Dubai (February 13-21) during ‘Gulfood 2025’.Liwanag said: “The OBMM is an annual initiative held in various countries in the Middle East. With the support of the Philippine embassy in Doha and the Qatar Chamber, we successfully organised the latest OBMM business-to-business event, featuring a range of companies based in Doha.“This initiative is organised by the Department of Trade and Industry to support our exporters. The Philippines has numerous innovative brands and products, and we are taking these offerings to international markets.”The companies represented a wide range of sectors, including fresh/frozen produce, processed foods, and personal care and pharmaceuticals, said Liwanag, who added that the Philippine delegation was able to visit different hypermarkets in Doha and hold B2B meetings with their counterparts in Qatar.Citing the Philippines’ long-term vision, the ‘AmBisyon Natin 2040’, Philippine ambassador Mardomel Celo D Melicor addressed the OBMM event, saying efficient manufacturing and exporting infrastructure are essential to achieving economic development by 2040.Melicor also underscored the value of staying open to global markets to better understand their demands and produce goods that would benefit the Philippine economy.“This openness will also help attract investments to our country, particularly from Qatar... I believe there are always niche opportunities for collaboration between the Philippines and Qatar,” noted the ambassador, who also enjoined Philippine exporters to consider what Qatar can offer in terms of food security.In his remarks, Qatar Chamber Board Member Abdulla bin Mohamed al-Emadi lauded the OBMM event, saying the initiative is a platform to explore new avenues for economic cooperation and investment between Qatar and the Philippines. Al-Emadi emphasised the significance of the visit by the Filipino business delegation in strengthening economic and commercial ties between both nations. He highlighted the close and rapidly expanding relations between the two countries, particularly in trade and investment, as reflected in high-level visits and numerous agreements signed across various sectors.He said the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Philippines last year led to the signing of multiple agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs). He also noted that Qatar-Philippines bilateral trade stood at QR636mn in 2024, reflecting the growing partnership between the two nations.Al-Emadi further stressed the vital role of the private sector in fostering economic relations, encouraging businesses from both sides to explore joint ventures, trade partnerships, and investment opportunities. He reaffirmed Qatar Chamber’s commitment to facilitating partnerships and supporting Qatari businesses in identifying investment prospects in the Philippines.