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A top official of the GSMA has lauded Qatar’s proactive investments to push forward its digitalisation journey, underscoring the country’s role as a global leader in shaping the future of connectivity.In an exclusive interview with Gulf Times on the sidelines of MWC25 Doha, Louis Powell, Director of AI Technologies at the GSMA, said Qatar ranks among the world’s top 10 investors in the digital economy and has set clear national goals through its Digital Agenda 2030.“I understand that Qatar is in the top 10 investors in the digital economy and ecosystem. The government is very proactive on the AI side of things, and I think it’s a great opportunity for them to uplift and empower their citizens and enterprises. Establishing a clear goal and ambition through its 2030 national vision not only sends a positive signal to the economy but also sets a guiding example for other nations,” Powell pointed out.According to Powell, the connectivity industry is expected to generate “$470bn in value between now and 2030.” He said MWC25 Doha attracted about 300 thought leaders, 250 exhibitors, and 100 startups, adding that “a lot of that value is created in these two days from these players in this space.”He said MWC25 Doha brings together a “core group of investors,” making the event a vital platform for showcasing breakthroughs in mobile technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and next-generation connectivity.Powell revealed what he was most excited about the developments in AI, citing the announcement of a strategic co-operation agreement between the GSMA Foundry, the GSMA’s innovation hub, and the Abu Dhabi-based Khalifa University of Science and Technology in the UAE.“We’re working with Khalifa University on building assets that boost the telecoms industry in AI,” Powell explained, adding that the university has a strong history in telecoms and recently built the first model designed specifically for the industry“And along with them, we have done a lot of work on benchmarking how models perform in the telecoms industry,” stressed Powell, who noted that telecoms data has unique requirements compared to consumer applications.“You can’t just take ChatGPT and use it on telecom-specific data. To address this, the GSMA is working with vendors in the open-source ecosystem and academia to boost model performance,” he further said.Asked about other key announcements or initiatives the GSMA unveiled at MWC25 Doha, and how they will shape the direction of the industry in the coming years, Powell said: “We've also launched a competition encouraging the industry to innovate in the telecom space, focusing on telecom-specific challenges such as troubleshooting. We also have great announcements on our open gateway through new announcements on network APIs.”Looking ahead, Powell said 6G will be “AI native,” with intelligence embedded into how networks are designed, constructed, and operated. “In the future, we’ll see how agentic systems really give you unlocked potential in scale and efficiency,” he pointed out. 

Key officials from the Philippines’ public and private sectors expressed collective optimism about robust investment collaboration with Qatar in tourism, agriculture, transportation, and trade.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025, Department of Tourism (DoT) Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar underscored the country’s unified presence in the event’s fourth edition, which will run until November 24 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).“Our participation in the event reflects the Department of Tourism’s keenness to not only promote the Philippines as a tourism destination but also to include halal tourism and Muslim-friendly tourism as our offering to the people of Qatar,” Valderrosa-Abubakar pointed out.**media[385855]**She added that the DoT’s participation, in partnership with the Embassy of the Philippines in the State of Qatar, was part of a broader effort to highlight the country’s readiness to welcome Muslim travellers and showcase its diverse tourism portfolio.From the provincial front, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S Oaminal emphasised the natural attractions of Northern Mindanao as a key draw for international visitors. He said: “We have development initiatives on both our mountain and coastal areas; we have a beach resort that is multi-inspired because it has an ocean villa presentation and dolphin islands nearby.”He explained that tourism promotion was being positioned alongside trade and agriculture to strengthen ties with Qatar, noting that inbound missions from Doha to Mindanao could be complemented by outbound delegations from the province of Misamis Occidental.Meanwhile, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Enunina V Mangio highlighted the chamber’s direct engagement with Qatari counterparts.**media[385856]**“That’s why we’re bringing a group of individuals who are all engaged in different sectors, and we will try to match them with their counterparts in Qatar,” Mangio explained, adding that the PCCI is keen on sharing best practices, technology transfer, partnerships, and investment exchange.Today (November 25), the PCCI is meeting officials of Qatar Chamber to discuss co-operation relations and networking. The Philippine delegation comprises 40 people representing about 30 companies across sectors such as labour, real estate, monorails, construction, and water technology, Mangio noted.Aside from Qatar Chamber, Mangio said the PCCI delegation is expected to hold meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar Investment Authority, and tourism authorities.Mangio emphasised that the Philippines is ready to deepen its partnership with Qatar, leveraging tourism as a gateway to trade and investment, while ensuring that the PCCI will highlight the key role that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and regional provinces play in strengthening Qatar-Philippines investment ties.

ReporterGovernment entities in Qatar have made significant progress in adopting smarter, evidence-based decision-making since the establishment of the Tasmu Innovation Lab in February 2020, an official at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has said. Eman al-Kuwari, Director of Digital Innovation at the MCIT, stated that the lab provides a controlled environment where public institutions can test emerging technologies before committing to full-scale projects. “Since its inception, we wanted to create a platform for government entities in the country to explore and experiment with emerging technologies for the different challenges that we’re facing,” al-Kuwari said during the Ibtechar Majlis held previously in Doha. According to al-Kuwari, the idea was to provide a secure space where they could validate concepts, collaborate with startups, and assess how these technologies could be integrated into their environments. Al-Kuwari explained that not every challenge is suited to technological solutions, citing instances where some tasks are redirected to other entities when policy gaps need to be addressed before technology can be applied. She also stressed the importance of precision in public sector innovation, emphasising that “there is no room for us to fail.” Al-Kuwari pointed out: “When we implement a big project, we need to implement it well. That’s why the innovation lab exists – to test, experiment, and validate before going full scale.” She noted that sandbox testing often reveals regulatory blind spots, citing use cases outside of Qatar. “We’ve seen this in Estonia, Singapore, and the UK. When you test emerging technologies, you often uncover regulatory gaps. This gives us early detection and a chance to improve before a major rollout,” she stressed. According to al-Kuwari, the MCIT’s sandbox model is helping Qatar build a more agile, data-driven public sector by collaborating with startups and drawing advisory expertise. She added: “It’s a good way to introduce government entities to the ecosystem. And most importantly, it helps them validate their ideas in a controlled, secure environment.” Tasmu is Qatar’s national Smart Qatar programme, launched by MCIT to drive digital transformation across priority sectors, such as transport, health, environment, logistics, and sports, stated the Tasmu Innovation Lab website. The website explained that the lab provides an open and inclusive environment for government entities, researchers, and technology partners to access, explore, and co-create solutions. It focuses on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR). The lab serves as a bridge between the government and the innovation ecosystem, ensuring that challenges identified by ministries are addressed through collaborative problem-solving. It also supports proof-of-concept testing and early validation, helping detect regulatory gaps before national roll-outs, the website further stated.

Qatar Development Bank (QDB) announced a major expansion of its support for entrepreneurs at the 11th edition of the Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference, unveiling new investment packages designed to attract global startups to Doha.Speaking at the conference’s opening ceremony, QDB CEO Abdulrahman bin Hesham al-Sowaidi said: “I am pleased to announce the doubling of investment packages: up to QR4mn for seed stage companies and up to QR20mn for growth stage companies. This programme serves as a bridge for outstanding startups worldwide to establish in Qatar and expand globally.”Al-Sowaidi emphasised that entrepreneurship in Qatar has evolved into a national endeavour, supported by the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). He noted that the private sector’s role in venture capital “is expanding rapidly.”“Last year, private sector participation reached 57% of total venture capital investments. We continue our journey towards achieving the national target of 70% by 2030,” he explained.QDB’s investment arm now ranks fourth among the most active investors in the Middle East and North Africa, with direct and indirect investments exceeding “QR350mn.” The bank has also tripled the value of single co-investment deals to “QR11mn,” strengthening partnerships with local and international funds.Al-Sowaidi highlighted QDB’s partnerships with the Qatar Investment Authority’s (QIA) Fund of Funds programme, including the launch of the HealthTech Accelerator with Deerfield’s Cure programme, which connects Doha and New York. He also pointed to the creation of Qatar’s first venture building studio, The studio, in collaboration with Utopia Capital Management.Capacity building initiatives have also been central to QDB’s strategy. More than 220 angel investors have been accredited through a programme with the Qatar Finance and Business Academy, paving the way for deeper engagement in venture capital across the region.“Aligned with Qatar’s ambition to be a launchpad rather than just a destination, we introduced the Startup Qatar Investment Programme. In just two years, it has supported more than 35 companies with investments exceeding QR130mn,” al-Sowaidi said.Al-Sowaidi stressed that digitalisation is now essential for competitiveness. QDB has rolled out a Digital Transformation programme, introduced the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) for self-assessment, and provided grants and financing to support companies in adopting advanced technologies.He cited figures from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) showing that 81% of early-stage entrepreneurs in Qatar rely on modern technology, evidence of the ecosystem’s ability to keep pace with global trends. QDB has also launched the Talent Community Programme, benefitting more than 50 entrepreneurs across 30 local and international companies, al-Sowaidi pointed out.He said this year’s Rowad conference gathered more than 120 local and international companies, 15 panel discussions, 45 workshops, and 28 startups competing to showcase their projects.“We stand at a moment where entrepreneurship moves from the margins to the centre of the economic system. The private sector is playing an increasingly vital role in driving development,” emphasised al-Sowaidi, who urged entrepreneurs and investors to seize the opportunity for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and deep partnerships.

Qatar Development Bank (QDB) kicked off Monday the 11th edition of the ‘Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference’, which will run until November 19 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).Organised in collaboration with the Young Entrepreneurs Club, the three-day event will also host the second ‘Young Entrepreneurs Media Forum’, featuring participation from government and private organisations, media professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs.His Excellency the Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani led the opening ceremony of the conference, which carries the theme ‘Beyond Boundaries: Scaling, Sustaining, and Succeeding’.The event is held under the patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani.QDB CEO Abdulrahman bin Hesham al-Sowaidi said, “Today’s opening clearly demonstrates Rowad’s pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurship and fostering innovation and creative thinking at the national and regional levels.“The direct connections we've seen between companies and investors, and the knowledge sharing among experts and entrepreneurs, showcase this platform’s unique ability to forge new pathways for collaboration across Qatar's business ecosystem.”He added: “Rowad’s core mission is to create an environment where companies can access the knowledge, relationships, and opportunities they need to thrive. We want every innovator to gain valuable insights into market dynamics, enabling them to plan strategically and grow with confidence.”According to QDB, this year’s theme charts a strategic course for entrepreneurship, emphasising excellence in business model development, market expansion, and leveraging sustainability and innovation as competitive differentiators that attract investment.The 2025 edition offers a rich and diverse programme, including a startup exhibition that features innovative solutions from 120 local and international companies. The conference hosts over 100 speakers and experts, more than 30 specialised workshops, and 15 panel discussions organised across four thematic tracks.The sessions tackle critical topics for Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem: strategies for scaling operations and entering new markets, leveraging global demand to refine products and services, prioritising sustainability, and embracing innovative solutions.An interactive pitch platform allows entrepreneurs to present their ventures to investors and explore funding opportunities, while dedicated meetings between startups and investors facilitate partnership building and investment discussions.The conference enjoys strong institutional support, with strategic partners including the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, alongside strategic sponsor QNB Group.The 11th edition of Rowad builds on the conference’s established track record, strengthening Doha’s position as a dynamic innovation hub and premier entrepreneurship destination. Rowad is held as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).

The successful trial of Qatar’s inaugural urban flight featuring an unmanned electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft marked a major milestone in the nation’s commitment to embracing innovative and sustainable mobility solutions. The event, sponsored and witnessed by His Excellency the Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed al-Thani Saturday at the Katara amphitheatre, symbolises Qatar’s forward-thinking approach in leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance transportation systems, ultimately reinforcing its status as a leader in smart urban mobility initiatives. The air taxi demonstration flight comes within a series of tests, supervised by the Ministry of Transport (MoT), on the technical aspects and future applicability of such technologies. **media[382233]** The trial air taxi flight took off at the Old Doha Port and landed safely at the Katara Cultural Village. It was successfully conducted without any direct human interference using a full self-control system enabled by AI and advanced air navigation technologies, demonstrating that the system is capable of using the airspace optimally in a safe operational environment. According to the MoT, it will continue assessing the test results and lay down the regulatory and technical frameworks needed for approving and operating that type of mobility in line with best international standards and in a way that enhances Qatar’s position as a leading global hub in adopting smart and sustainable technologies. The pilotless air taxi project will be carried out in several consecutive phases, considering all relevant technical, operational, and regulatory requirements, including infrastructure readiness, approval of operational systems, and meeting all safety, security and quality standards to ensure the new mobility system can be safely and effectively integrated into the nation’s mobility network. **media[382235]** The minister described the trial operation as “a new milestone” in Qatar’s journey of adopting smart and sustainable mobility solutions and constitutes “an advanced step forward” toward a future enabled by innovation and environmentally friendly technologies. “This emphasises the MoT’s commitment to enhancing Qatar’s regional and international pioneering position in modern transportation and supporting national efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve the quality of life,” the minister emphasised. “This initiative,” he said, “is a true translation of the MoT Strategy 2025-2030 that aims at creating a smart, resilient transportation system where sustainability, innovation, and integration between various transportation modes are front and centre, thereby boosting the efficiency of the country’s transportation system and advancing the goals of the Third National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030.” **media[382236]** The minister noted that the MoT will continue enhancing Qatar’s global profile in deploying smart and emerging technologies in transportation, in partnership with leading global companies, to develop an integrated infrastructure that is capable of accommodating advanced transportation modes in the coming years. “Saturay’s trial operation was part of the MoT’s initiatives for developing Qatar’s public transportation system by using unmanned eVTOL aircraft as a safe, fast, and eco-friendly urban mobility option that contributes to reducing traffic congestion, and providing smart mobility choices for citizens, residents and visitors, something that says leadership is achieved when technology meets governance,” the minister added.

Senior government officials, academics, and innovation leaders have explored how Public Innovation Labs (PILs) can help governments improve service delivery, foster citizen engagement, and build agile institutions.Eman al-Kuwari, director of Digital Innovation at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), underscored how MCIT is reimagining the role of government in the digital age, citing the TASMU Innovation Lab.“Technology is the means, not the end; we created the Innovation Lab to offer a safe environment for experimentation. It’s a space where we can test emerging technologies, validate ideas, and include the wider ecosystem.“That includes startups, academia, and private sector partners. We’re reimagining how government works — and that starts with giving teams the confidence to try,” al-Kuwari pointed out during the inaugural ‘Ibtechar Majlis’, a new dialogue series launched earlier by Qatari innovation firm Ibtechar.She added that innovation must be embedded in the culture of public institutions: “It’s not just about infrastructure or policy — it’s about building a mindset. We want government teams to be able to experiment, to test, and to learn. That’s how we bring real value to public services.”Nejoud M al-Jehani, executive director of Strategy & Programmes at the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, offered a strategic framing of innovation, distinguishing between internal reform and ecosystem-wide transformation.“We differentiate between government innovation and public innovation. Government innovation is about improving internal processes — policies, service delivery, operations. Public innovation is broader. It’s about creating value for society by mobilising the entire ecosystem: government entities, corporates, startups, and universities,” al-Jehani explained.Emphasising the dual role of government in this landscape, she continued: “As an adopter, government defines challenges and becomes the first customer. That builds market confidence. As an enabler, it sets standards, opens partnerships, and creates the conditions for innovation to thrive across sectors.”Hissa al-Tamimi, director of Governmental Innovation at the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CGB), spoke about the launch of Qatar’s first government accelerator and its role in bridging national priorities with operational realities.She said, “We’re rethinking how services are designed and how operations are managed. The accelerator helps us connect national projects with the day-to-day work of government entities.”Al-Tamimi also addressed the cultural challenge of embedding innovation in public institutions, saying, “If innovation were just about systems, adaptation would be easy. But when you’re dealing with people, that’s where the challenge lies. Innovation pushes us beyond our comfort zones. It’s not a privilege — it’s a way of living. That’s the only way we can advance.”Dr Georgios Dimitropoulos, professor and associate dean for Research at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Law, highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia and government: “Academia brings ideas and evidence. The government brings implementability. The two sides need each other.”Citing historical examples to illustrate the power of this partnership, Dimitropoulos said: “Think of the Manhattan Project, the COVID vaccines, and the Internet. These were all born from collaboration between government and academia. Qatar’s AI strategy is a local example. It was developed with HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute, and it positioned the country as an early adopter.”Ibtechar co-founder and CEO Nayef al-Ibrahim, who moderated the discussion, framed the Majlis as a culturally rooted space for dialogue and co-creation, adding that it is “an integral part of Qatari culture.”“Public Innovation Labs continue that spirit. They offer governments safe spaces to test ideas, co-create with citizens, and deliver agile services. In a small state, a model that combines centralised coordination with decentralised experimentation brings significant value. It allows for flexibility, inclusion, and scale—all while maintaining coherence,” he added.

The president of the Business Continuity & Resilience Conference has called on organisations in Qatar to embrace intelligent, forward-thinking, and flexible strategies that enable them to turn disruptions into opportunities to innovate and stay ahead.Engineer Abdullatif Ali al-Yafei emphasised that companies that anticipate challenges and adapt to market changes can navigate uncertainty and discover unique solutions that give them a competitive edge.“Companies can not only navigate through uncertainties but also identify novel solutions and approaches that set them apart from their competitors,” said al-Yafei on the sidelines of a recently held press conference to announce the upcoming ‘4th Business Continuity & Resilience Conference’ slated for November 27 at the Al Majles Hall of the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.Al-Yafei stressed that this involves staying attuned to emerging trends, fostering a culture of creativity and adaptability within teams, and continually refining processes and offerings. “In doing so, organisations can transform potential setbacks into catalysts for growth and success,” he further pointed out.He underscored the success of the previous three conferences, saying this year’s edition will be held under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani under the theme ‘Business Continuity – Smart Solutions and AI’. The event will be organised in a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), he also said.“We stand at a pivotal moment where artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and predictive analytics are fundamentally transforming how organisations approach risk.“These technologies empower businesses to move beyond reactive crisis management to proactive resilience. This is the new frontier of organisational resilience that we will explore together,” al-Yafei noted, adding that the conference will convene leading national and international experts in business continuity, organisational resilience and risk management in Qatar.He said 24 consultants, experts, and practitioners will be invited to participate in the panel discussion, all of whom have experience managing major crises and disruptions in large operations, transportation, cybersecurity, supply chains, and food security, among other areas.The panel discussions will address a variety of topics related to risk mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The programme also includes six informative talks and interactive sessions.According to al-Yafei, the MoCI has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Qatar’s business environment and strengthening the role of private sector institutions, underscoring the importance of fostering a dynamic and competitive business sector that contributes effectively to achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.In a media statement, the ministry highlighted that the adoption of smart solutions and AI technologies has become a cornerstone of modern business development. These tools enhance institutional efficiency, improve decision-making, and align with the country’s digital transformation agenda, ultimately reinforcing the competitiveness of Qatar’s economy, it also stated.MoCI further noted that the ‘4th Business Continuity and Resilience Conference’ provides a valuable platform for sharing expertise and showcasing best practices in organisational resilience and business continuity.“The Ministry affirms its continued support for initiatives that promote a more agile, sustainable, and future-ready business environment capable of adapting to regional and global developments,” the statement added.

The fourth edition of the ‘Business Continuity & Resilience Conference’ (BCRC), slated for November 27 in Doha, is expected to will highlight the crucial role of risk management, business continuity, resilience, and crisis management in an era where the widespread adoption of smart solutions, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and predictive analytics is fundamentally transforming how organisations approach risk.Speaking at a press conference yesterday, BCRC president Abdullatif Ali al-Yafei announced the details of the conference in the presence of Hassan al-Emadi, Senior Director Business Accounts at Ooredoo Qatar; Nayaz Mohammed, Cyber and Digital Trust Partner at PwC; and Sarah Abdulla, general manager of the Qatar Businessmen Association (QBA).“AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics are redefining how organisations manage risk and crises. These technologies empower companies to move beyond simply responding to crises and build proactive resilience. This is the new frontier of organisational resilience that we will explore together.“Traditional business continuity management, resilience, and risk management, often reactive in nature, are no longer sufficient to meet these challenges. Instead, organisations must adopt smart, proactive, and adaptive strategies to leverage disruptions as opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage,” al-Yafei pointed out.He further explained, “AI and smart solutions are revolutionising risk management and operational resilience by enabling predictive risk intelligence that forecasts disruptions like cyber threats and supply chain issues for proactive mitigation, automated crisis response systems that enhance real-time decision-making while minimising downtime and errors, resilient Internet of Things (IoT) and AI-monitored infrastructure that ensures continuity across critical sectors, and advanced machine learning cybersecurity that rapidly detects and neutralises threats.”AI is rapidly taking over critical business functions, al-Yafei pointed out, saying “the game is becoming serious; this is no longer experimental.” He also highlighted that numerous organisations are making substantial investments in smart solutions and AI, leading to a growing dependence on these technologies for critical functions and operations across all sectors.“But what if the AI fails? This conference will aim to address hard questions and share practical approaches, and show ways to safeguard our business.Some of these questions are how do you continue AI operations in the face of a cyberattack, and how do you deal with AI actors or business partners or customers that suddenly malfunction? These and more questions will be discussed during the conference,” al-Yafei stressed.

Medical tourism, corporate diplomacy seen as emerging investment channels Medical tourism and corporate business diplomacy are emerging key investment channels between Qatar and Uganda, an official of a Qatari firm has said. KON co-founder and chairman Mohamed R Massani told Gulf Times that a delegation of investors from Uganda lauded the medical treatment they experienced while in Qatar. “We already received a few delegations...and they had received very good treatment,” explained Massani, who added that medical tourism was introduced after Ugandan delegations visiting Doha received treatment at partner clinics. He noted that Qatar’s healthcare infrastructure “is among the best in the region.” Massani stressed that medical tourism aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify away from hydrocarbons. “Qatar has been successful in its diversification strategy by tapping into non-energy sources of income, and one of these sectors is medical tourism. As part of these efforts, we are promoting medical tourism, in collaboration with DOC Medical Centre and the American Hospital Clinic,” he further explained. Beyond healthcare, Massani highlighted the role of corporate business diplomacy, a model where private firms partner with embassies to promote investment and tourism, as well as other sectors, and make the process easy for investors. Previously, KON Group co-founder and chairperson Hissa K al-Sowaidi explained to this paper that the company’s business diplomacy initiative “enhances opportunities to virtually continue our hard work with our strategic partners and boost bilateral business relations.”Al-Suwaidi also stressed that KON Group is keen to participate in the country’s economic development by serving as a bridge between companies in Qatar and their counterparts worldwide. Similarly, Massani stressed that “the collaboration between the company and different embassies in the country would play a role in promoting trade and investments between Qatar and other countries.” Asked about the company’s partner embassies, Massani said KON Group had already established partnerships with “mostly African countries,” citing Uganda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, among others. But he stressed that the company will be expanding these partnerships to other nations. Emphasising the significance of the African continent, Massani described it as a “virgin investment landscape with so much untapped potential. “We need to attract investors from Qatar to utilise these opportunities,” noted Massani, pointing out KON Group’s sustainability initiatives, including animal waste recycling and food production facilitation offices. The company is currently working with the Government of Uganda to open KON Group’s first facilitation office for food products, Massani also said, adding that “we have seen very good incentives from the government.”

Qatar’s private sector is positioning itself as a regional leader in inclusive employment, creative industries, and talent development, according to a prominent Qatari business leader.Speaking at the Private Sector Forum during the Second World Summit for Social Development yesterday, Ashraf Abuissa, CEO and chairman of AbuIssa Holding, said Qatar’s investment in technology and its hosting of global events, such as the Web Summit and Mobile Congress, were helping to build a thriving ecosystem for startups and innovation.“Qatar is becoming a regional headquarters for major companies and an incubator for startups,” he said, noting that the country’s inclusive employment practices extend to remote work opportunities for communities facing political or cultural restrictions.Abuissa also highlighted Qatar’s labour protections and talent development systems, describing how his company nurtures employees through fast-track programmes and continuous training.He also lauded the government’s Wage Protection System (WPS) and its proactive monitoring of labour rights.Sonya Janahi, vice president for Asia at the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), underscored the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in avoiding unethical competition and economic burden.“Governments should not compete with the private sector. Instead, we must collaborate to create sustainable solutions,” she emphasised.Janahi also pointed to the growing role of corporate social responsibility (CSR): “Employers are giving back — supporting farmers, education, and healthcare systems. This is where social development happens.”Daan Wensing, CEO of IDH, described the private sector as a global catalyst, driving 80% of trade and generating millions of jobs. “We need to make growth more intentional—linking innovation with inclusivity, wages with well-being, and productivity with decent jobs,” he said.Wensing cited examples from the banana and tea sectors, where collective action among retailers, governments, and civil society helped close living wage gaps. “If we do this together, we can challenge the status quo and achieve more than we thought possible,” he added.

Qatar’s private sector is positioning itself as a regional leader in inclusive employment, creative industries, and talent development, according to a prominent Qatari business leader. Speaking at the Private Sector Forum during the Second World Summit for Social Development yesterday, Ashraf Abuissa, CEO and chairman of AbuIssa Holding, said Qatar’s investment in technology and its hosting of global events, such as the Web Summit and Mobile Congress, were helping to build a thriving ecosystem for startups and innovation. “Qatar is becoming a regional headquarters for major companies and an incubator for startups,” he said, noting that the country’s inclusive employment practices extend to remote work opportunities for communities facing political or cultural restrictions. Abuissa also highlighted Qatar’s labour protections and talent development systems, describing how his company nurtures employees through fast-track programmes and continuous training. He also lauded the government’s Wage Protection System (WPS) and its proactive monitoring of labour rights. Sonya Janahi, vice president for Asia at the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), underscored the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in avoiding unethical competition and economic burden. “Governments should not compete with the private sector. Instead, we must collaborate to create sustainable solutions,” she emphasised. Janahi also pointed to the growing role of corporate social responsibility (CSR): “Employers are giving back—supporting farmers, education, and healthcare systems. This is where social development happens.” Daan Wensing, CEO of IDH, described the private sector as a global catalyst, driving 80% of trade and generating millions of jobs. “We need to make growth more intentional—linking innovation with inclusivity, wages with well-being, and productivity with decent jobs,” he said. Wensing cited examples from the banana and tea sectors, where collective action among retailers, governments, and civil society helped close living wage gaps. “If we do this together, we can challenge the status quo and achieve more than we thought possible,” he added. Ends

At least 45,000 new jobs for women are expected to be created across the Arab region next year, an official of the UN Women announced today during a panel discussion held on the sidelines of the ‘Second World Summit for Social Development’, which will run until November 6 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).Speaking at the ‘Solutions Spotlight - Jobs, Skills & Care: Scaling Inclusive Employment for People-Centred Development’, Dr Moez Doraid, UN Women Regional Director for the Arab States, explained that employment generation for women in the Arab region is part of the ‘Surging Women’s Employment Initiative’ (SWEI) led by the UN Women and its partners.He said, “One of UN Women’s top priorities in the Arab region is to solve one of the most persistent problems, both in this region and globally, which is the low levels of women’s labour force participation. It’s a global problem, but in the Arab countries, it takes one of its most extreme manifestations: For the past three decades, women’s labour force participation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) has stagnated at around 20%. That is nearly half the global levels.”Doraid pointed out that SWEI also aims to increase women’s labour force participation by “5 percentage points in five years” and also to address and overcome “a persistent paradox” in the MENA region, which is “the contrast between women’s capabilities that have advanced very rapidly primarily through educational attainment and their employment backlog.”Despite significant gains in education—where women now outnumber men in universities and make up 57% of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates—employment figures remain stubbornly low, Doraid lamented.“Women’s capabilities have advanced because women’s illiteracy has been halved in the last two decades. Today, there are more women than men enrolled in universities, and 57% of STEM graduates in the MENA region are women. However, when looking at the workforce, the average labour force participation rate for women across the region is only 20%. There are notable exceptions, such as Qatar, where the participation rate is 63%, nearly three times the regional average,” Doraid further explained.He said, “Women are increasingly represented in STEM education and entrepreneurship. For instance, in the MENA region, the percentage of women tech entrepreneurs surpasses that of Silicon Valley. Additionally, a significant growth area lies in the green economy, which addresses both environmental challenges and enhances women's employment opportunities.“And it covers the entire spectrum of the value chain, empowering women from access to finance to sales, including both in domestic and external markets. The third is the care economy because women constitute the majority of employees in this dimension, as well as care services, such as day care services. And we are doing that by addressing three dimensions of both overcoming obstacles and enabling women.”Doraid noted that SWEI’s approach spans macroeconomic policy, legal reform, and norm-shifting programmes, such as the ‘Dare to Care’ initiative, which encourages men to take on more domestic responsibilities. Currently, women perform “4.7 hours” of unpaid domestic work daily, compared to just “one hour” by men, he also said.He also urged governments and partners to adopt conducive macroeconomic policies, enforce laws, and support cultural shifts that allow women to balance family and career. After the panel discussion, Doraid took to LinkedIn to summarise the points he raised at the Solutions Spotlight event.“Women in the region remain vastly underrepresented in the labour market, despite being among the most educated in the world. SWEI tackles this paradox head-on, working to create 500,000 new jobs within five years and increase women’s employment by 5% by 2030.“The initiative combines evidence-based policy reform, legal change, and social norm transformation - backed by powerful partnerships with Arab governments, the EU, Spain, Germany, and the Islamic Development Bank. It also builds on positive momentum across the region, where 72% of fathers express a desire to spend more time with their children and 86% of policymakers support extended paternity leave - strong indicators of evolving mindsets toward shared care responsibilities,” he stated.Doraid added: “SWEI drives growth where women already lead in the Care, Green, and STEM Economies, and partners with over 700 private sector companies under the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) to open new pathways for women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion.”Ends

Qatar Development Bank (QBD) launched ‘TAMKEEN’ or the National Funding Gate, a unified digital platform for business financing in the country, during a ceremony held in Doha today. TAMKEEN brings together Qatar’s leading financial institutions under one roof, offering an integrated solution that simplifies access to financing for companies based in the country. The initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 to build a competitive and dynamic local business ecosystem. It will serve as the central hub for companies seeking financing to support their growth. TAMKEEN also digitally connects applicants with participating national banks, reducing time and effort, while enabling banks to reach a wider range of potential clients. The initiative represents a strategic partnership between QDB and key players in Qatar’s financial sector, fostering innovative financing solutions that strengthen the overall business environment. QDB also announced the launch of the Credit Guarantee Programme, a revamped version of ‘Al Dhameen’ programme, which issues guarantees to partner banks providing financing to Qatar-based companies. The programme, which is now fully integrated into the National Funding Gate, encourages banks to fund local projects and businesses. At the launch ceremony, QDB CEO Abdulrahman bin Hesham al-Sowaidi said: “We are confident that this platform will mark a transformative leap in the efficiency and quality of business financing in Qatar. “It stands as a model of integration and partnership between the financial sector and the business community, supporting sustainable development and economic diversification. Through this initiative, we are advancing a resilient, dynamic, and competitive knowledge-based economy led by the private sector.” He added: “We have been working to develop the Credit Guarantee Programme to support risk-sharing with partner banks. We will allocate an initial amount of QR3bn for the programme. This is in response to the evolving needs of the business ecosystem and a broader range of customers, which will positively impact Qatar’s economic performance.” TAMKEEN embodies a unified national vision and a coordinated effort among leading financial and governmental institutions. Its development was overseen by QDB, under the guidance and leadership of Qatar Central Bank, and after coordinating with partner national banks, all with the shared goal of supporting the private sector and expanding financing solutions for businesses in Qatar. QDB continues its mission to empower Qatar’s private sector, enhancing its resilience and productivity. It remains committed to enabling entrepreneurs and innovators to launch and grow their businesses, helping them compete, contribute to Qatar’s economic development, and drive national progress. For more information or to apply for financing, visit www.nfg.qa. Ends

Uganda is inviting Qatari investors to explore opportunities in four strategic sectors: agriculture, tourism, mining, and innovation, according to ambassador Stephen Chebrot, who addressed the second edition of the Uganda-Qatar Business Forum held today in Doha.Chebrot emphasised that the forum reflects Uganda-Qatar partnership for shared economic development: “This theme captures our common aspiration to create a future of mutual prosperity, beautiful investment, innovation, and shared opportunity. We understand that we are one of Uganda’s most promising frontiers for investment, along with fertile land, abundant natural resources, a young and dynamic population, and a stable investment environment.”“Qatar, on the other hand, is a global leader in capital investment, innovation, and sustainable economic transformation. Together, our partnership holds immense potential to create lasting value for both countries. This forum seeks to promote collaboration across our four great populous, agricultural value chain, tourism promotion, mining, science and technology, and innovation, all as well as other TMS sectors,” the ambassador also emphasised in his opening speech.Chebrot outlined Uganda’s investment landscape, citing fertile land, abundant resources, and a young population as key advantages.“Uganda is inviting Qatari investors to participate across the value chain—from livestock farming, agro-processing, oil storage, and medicine, to exporting high-value products such as citrus, coffee, vanilla, avocado, grapes, and tea,” said Chebrot, who also highlighted Uganda’s role as a regional trade hub, saying the country offers access to regional markets of over “300mn” people through the East Africa community.Mohamed Massani, co-founder and chairman of KON Group, reinforced the ambassador’s message, citing the company’s recent $10mn investment in animal waste recycling in Uganda. “These initiatives demonstrated how innovation can transform sustainability into empowerment,” Massani said.According to Masssani, Uganda’s exports to Qatar rose from “$5.7mn in 2021 to $13.4mn," a “135%” increase in just two years. “These numbers reflect more than trade. They reflect trust, commitment, and opportunity in action,” he pointed out.Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the forum, Massani announced plans to open a facilitation office for food product exports between Uganda and Qatar. Tourism was also a key focus, KON Group co-founder and chairperson Hissa al-Sowaidi bared to this paper, underscoring the forum’s goal of boosting two-way travel and cultural exchange. “We are directly arranging a familiarisation trip to boost the tourism side,” she said.Massani added: “Let’s remember partnership is not just a transaction but a commitment...it’s a bridge between innovation and impact.” On a similar note, Chebrot affirmed his confidence that Uganda-Qatar partnerships “will mark the beginning of new ventures, friendships, and investments.”

India’s strategic investment partnership with Qatar has gained fresh momentum, with $52.9bn worth of commitments spanning 59 projects, according to a presentation by Invest India at the ‘Qatar-India Joint Business Council’ meeting earlier this month in Doha.The basis for the type of financing required for public sector projects includes 14 hybrid projects amounting to $18.5bn, 12 equity projects worth $9.3bn, and nine debt-type projects to the tune of $23bn. The top three sectors for private projects are food processing with five projects, four in semiconductor and electronics, and three in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, the presentation stated.According to Invest India, which is the country’s National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency, set up in 2009 as a not-for-profit company under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), a delegation from Qatar led by HE the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Sayed visited India to lead a high-level delegation to discuss investment co-operation.During the visit, stakeholders from both sides held many discussions and meetings at the government level, as well as the private sector level.“Approximately $53bn of investment opportunities were shared across sectors; $50bn of the total amount comprised public sector projects, while the balance is for private sector projects. A lot of these projects are at the advanced stage. There is a good discussion happening between both sides when it comes to progressing these investments, and there are other projects that are also being looked at right now,” Invest India explained.At the recent ‘Qatar-India Joint Business Council’ meeting, Invest India also outlined the South Asian country’s macroeconomic trajectory, highlighting its current status as the world’s fourth-largest economy with aspirations to reach third place by 2030.Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Invest India emphasised that India aims to become a $30tn developed economy by 2047, with a $7tn interim target set for 2030. The presentation framed India as a consumption-driven economy, with household spending accounting for over 60% of GDP, and gross capital formation — seen as a proxy for investment — averaging around 30%. It also noted that India’s FDI inflows have averaged $80bn annually over the past five years, with its share of global FDI doubling from 3% to 6% between 2014 and 2024.The presentation also noted that repatriation of profits has increased, signalling investor confidence and India’s progress toward developed economy benchmarks. “It’s a sign of an economy that is progressing towards a developed economy, wherein investors have put money and are also able to take out the profits. Similarly, outside FDI is the investment of India’s companies... this also shows a healthy growth sign showing that Indian companies are growing in this nature and are also able to invest in other countries abroad,” Invest India pointed out.India’s outbound FDI is also on the rise, with domestic firms investing abroad and raising $19bn through 80 IPOs in the Indian stock market in 2025 alone, according to Invest India. Green energy emerged as a key growth driver, with India achieving its 2030 target of 50% renewable installed capacity five years ahead of schedule. Out of the current 495GW total energy mix capacity, 248GW now comes from renewables (green/non-fossil energy capacity), with a new target of 500GW set for 2030.“A lot of initiatives have been taken by both governments. India is a federal structure; there’s a government at the central level and there’s a government at the state level, so a lot of initiatives have been taken by governments at both levels to support investments into the country.“A lot of these sectors have been re-licensed, except a couple of strategic ones. Most of the FDI is now allowed under the automatic route. The tech and royalty payments are also all on the automatic route. A lot of central government schemes and incentives are there,” Invest India also pointed out.The presentation detailed a wide array of central and state-level incentives, including production-linked incentive schemes worth $24bn across 14 sectors, and state subsidies ranging from fixed capital support to full stamp duty exemptions. India’s logistics reforms were also spotlighted, with the ‘PM Gati Shakti’ initiative and a national logistics policy aimed at boosting multimodal connectivity.Invest India emphasised that recent diplomatic exchanges have further strengthened bilateral ties. Following His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani’s visit to India in February, a $10mn investment commitment was made, followed by Dr al-Sayed’s delegation in August. These engagements have led to the identification of approximately $53bn in investment opportunities, with hybrid financing models under discussion and several projects already at advanced stages.The presentation also reaffirmed “India’s readiness” to welcome Qatari investors, citing sectoral diversity, policy stability, and a maturing industrial ecosystem as key enablers.

Qatar and India are deepening their startup ties with a shared ambition to co-create the next wave of unicorns and “soonicorns”, as both nations shift from transactional investment to strategic innovation diplomacy. In a presentation delivered on the sidelines of the ‘Qatar-India Joint Business Council’ meeting held in Doha recently, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) underscored the role of its ‘Startup India’ initiative in creating a robust ecosystem for startups. “Our startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators are the bridge that will take this partnership to the next level,” the DPIIT stated, adding that the Startup India initiative “empowered India's youth to choose the path of becoming job creators rather than job seekers.” Launched in 2016 under the vision of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Startup India has become “one of the world’s most recognised entrepreneurship programmes” owing to its funding support, simplification of processes, and incubation, the DPIIT pointed out. “From 400 startups in 2016 to more than 189,000 in 2025, India stands as the third largest startup ecosystem globally. With 123 unicorns, $364bn in cumulative funding, and 194mn jobs created, the India startup ecosystem story is one of resilience, scale, and global ambition,” the DPIIT emphasised. The DPIIT also said startups under the initiative “are redefining industries,” whether it is the Industry 4.0, EVs, semiconductors, health tech, agri-tech, or fintech. “They are solving global challenges and creating globally scalable solutions. This offers immense opportunities for Indian and Qatari innovators to co-create and expand,” the DPIIT noted. In life sciences alone, the DPIIT stated that India hosts “over 7,000” startups and ranks among the “top 12” global hubs, with a projected market size of $300bn by 2030. It also pointed out that India’s strength in genetics and vaccines “makes it among the globe’s top hubs.” The DPIIT stated: “For Qatar, this opens doors to co-invest in cutting-edge technologies, strengthen pharma supply chains, and collaborate on clinical research. In fintech, India’s more than 4,000 startups power more than 12mn UPI transactions monthly. Qatar can integrate with this ecosystem, bringing Islamic finance and wealth-tech innovations into play.” The DPIIT also flagged proptech as a “high-potential area,” with India’s smart housing push creating avenues for Qatar to co-develop digital real estate platforms and smart cities. “More than 100 corporates” are actively engaging with Indian startups, while “over 250” have benefitted from $8.21mn in incubation and mentorship support, it also stated. Moreover, the DPIIT stated that India has built a strong soft landing platform with more than 40 partner countries, enabling over 200 global programmes and benefiting more than 860 startups through 21 international bridges and two strategic alliances. “Our entrepreneurs are gaining exposure to new markets, potential customers and strategic partnerships. These bridges are not just pathways; they are accelerators, helping Indian startups scale their innovation beyond national borders,” the DPIIT also stated. According to the DPIIT, Indian startups are now present across the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, with DPIIT-recognised firms recently showcased at Web Summit Qatar. “A landmark moment came in August when a high-powered Qatari delegation engaged with 30 of India’s top unicorns and ‘soonicorns’. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) reaffirmed its $10bn commitment to India, highlighting sustainable and future-ready investments. “Looking ahead, India and Qatar have vast synergies,” the DPIIT noted, citing fintech, green energy, logistics, mobility and deep tech. “Together, we can redefine food security, maritime trade, smart mobility, and even carbon-neutral air travel,” it stated. With nearly half its population under 25 and over 270mn digital users, India was described as “a young digital nation” poised for global leadership. In 2025 alone, Indian startups accounted for “22%” of global IPOs, with over 60 listings. The DPIIT added: Our startups are maturing with more than 60 IPOs in 2025 alone, accounting for 22% of global IPOs. Early investors have reaped significant returns, reinforcing India's and the world's most profitable venture markets. “Policy tailwinds like reverse flipping provisions and strong regulatory support make India a global hub for innovation today. The India-Qatar partnership is not just about investments, but about shaping the future of global entrepreneurship.”

The 11th edition of the Rowad Conference is expected to tackle issues vital to Qatar’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, including the best strategies for scaling businesses and how to leverage global market needs to develop products and services, a Qatar Development Bank (QDB) official has said.Dr Hamad Salem Mejegheer, QDB executive director of SME Development, made the statement in a press conference yesterday, underscoring the significance of this year’s edition to be held in collaboration with the Young Entrepreneurs Club (YEC) at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).Under the theme ‘Beyond Boundaries: Scaling, Sustaining, and Succeeding’, the conference will also feature the second edition of the ‘Young Entrepreneurs Media Forum’, adding further momentum and offering a vibrant platform for emerging business leaders.Mejegheer said: “This year’s edition of the Rowad Conference will stand out through its broad participation, bringing together officials, experts, entrepreneurs, and investors. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and explore the latest developments in entrepreneurship, locally, regionally, and globally.”He also said: “The conference will also highlight the importance of sustainability as a strategic choice that inspires investors to engage in ventures, alongside innovation and the adoption of creative solutions. We are confident that this year’s Rowad Conference will continue to build on its remarkable legacy of success as a pioneering platform that reflects Qatar’s standing as a regional leader and a global connector in the field of entrepreneurship.”YEC vice-president Abdulrahman Tareq al-Emadi expressed confidence in the event's impact, stating that the Rowad Conference and the Young Entrepreneurs Media Forum share a unified mission to empower youth and enhance their contributions to the national economy by showcasing their stories, aspirations, and successes. “This edition is more than just an event; it is a dynamic platform reflecting Qatar’s youth entrepreneurial energy that transcends borders,” he noted.Ismail Mohamed al-Emadi, executive vice-president of SME Banking at QNB Group, the conference’s Strategic Sponsor, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting national development, stating: “Our participation reflects our belief in sharing knowledge and fostering innovation to advance Qatar’s sustainable development.”The 11th Rowad Conference will offer a comprehensive programme featuring an exhibition of more than 120 local and international companies presenting their latest products and innovative solutions. The agenda includes over 30 specialised workshops and 15 panel discussions across four tracks, with the participation of more than 100 speakers and experts.A major new feature this year is the introduction of a dedicated ‘Pitching Arena’, where companies will have the opportunity to pitch their projects directly to investors in a competitive environment. The event will also include a series of networking sessions and meetings to discuss growth opportunities and potential investment partnerships.Rowad 2025 is supported by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) as strategic partners, while the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at) serves as the regional partner and QNB Group as the conference’s strategic sponsor.Ooredoo is the telecom sponsor, alongside Invest Qatar, Qatar Stock Exchange, and Elan Media as platinum sponsors. Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Council (QRDI) participates as the innovation sponsor, with Qatar Financial Centre as the gold sponsor, Snoonu as the technology sponsor, and Qatar Media Corporation as the official media partner.The latest edition of the conference builds on its success since its inception as an innovation and entrepreneurship hub. Rowad is held as an integral part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).