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The robust partnership between Canada and Qatar is setting innovative benchmarks in environmental sustainability, especially in the fields of energy efficiency and climate adaptation, an official of the Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF).Ibrahim Abdelhalim, CQBF senior business adviser and board member, underscored the role of private-sector partnerships, saying both countries are addressing critical environmental challenges through shared research, technology exchange, and best practices.“Through strategic partnerships and advanced technologies, this cooperation aims to reduce indoor temperatures by up to 60%, significantly decreasing energy consumption and supporting Qatar’s commitment to a sustainable future. These efforts align with the Qatar National Vision 2030, led by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani,” Abdelhalim told Gulf Times in a statement.“A key driving force behind this initiative is Al Faisal Holding and Aamal Group, which have demonstrated strong support for sustainable development in Qatar,” said Abdelhalim, who commended Al Faisal Holding and Aamal chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani for serving as a “pioneer in Qatar’s business landscape”.Under Sheikh Faisal’s leadership, Abdelhalim noted that Al Faisal Holding and Aamal “have continuously championed innovation and environmental responsibility in the real estate and construction sectors”. Abdelhalim said: “Their commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies underscores Qatar’s dedication to energy efficiency, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability.”According to Abdelhalim, the CQBF is actively working to foster collaborations between Canadian and Qatari enterprises in key sectors that drive innovation and sustainability. “One of these sectors is real estate and tourism development, where integrating energy-efficient solutions into modern infrastructure is essential for long-term environmental and economic benefits,” he pointed out.Abdelhalim noted that the use of innovative thermal management solutions that enhance energy efficiency in buildings is a “notable example of such technological advancements”.He said Ecolosynergy, a Canadian company specialising in sustainable energy solutions, has developed technologies that significantly improve thermal insulation, reduce cooling costs, and optimise indoor environments.“These solutions are particularly relevant for Qatar, where high temperatures present ongoing challenges for energy consumption in commercial and residential buildings,” Abdelhalim emphasised.He stressed that several factors highlight the need for innovative sustainability solutions as Qatar continues to expand its urban landscape. These include high energy demand for cooling, rising temperatures increase reliance on air conditioning, leading to higher energy costs, and commitment to sustainability.“With Qatar’s focus on green initiatives, there is a growing need for technologies that support energy conservation and environmental responsibility. Solutions that improve energy efficiency can help reduce operational costs for businesses and homeowners alike,” Abdelhalim further explained.On innovative solutions that are driving sustainability, Abdelhalim said the integration of advanced thermal insulation technologies can bring multiple benefits to Qatar’s real estate sector.These include reducing indoor heat by up to 60%; minimising heat absorption leads to naturally cooler indoor spaces, reducing the need for excessive cooling; lowering energy consumption; cutting air conditioning energy use by up to 40%, contributing to significant cost savings;Enhanced thermal protection; blocking 95% of infrared radiation and 99% of UV rays, protecting interiors from heat damage and preserving building materials; quick and efficient implementation; can be integrated without major structural modifications, making it an accessible solution for new and existing buildings; supporting Qatar’s environmental goals; and contributing to reduced carbon emissions and aligning with global sustainability standards.Abdelhalim said: “The collaboration between Al Faisal Holding, Aamal Group, and Canadian partners represents a significant step toward a more sustainable built environment in Qatar.Their commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility is setting new benchmarks for energy efficiency and green development in the country.”He added: “Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technologies, Canada and Qatar are working together to develop solutions that will have a lasting impact on energy efficiency and environmental conservation—ensuring a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

All roads led to the Al Saad Plaza in Lusail City for the much anticipated Lusail Sky Festival, which began on Thursday and will run until on Saturday from 4pm to 10pm.The three-day event, unveiled by Visit Qatar, in collaboration with Qatari Diar, is part of an exciting lineup of artistic and musical events to add more colour and adventure for holidaymakers visiting various tourist destinations in the country. Entry is free.Yesterday's festival kicked-off with a daring sky exhibition by the Lekhwiya Parachute Jumpers, followed by breathtaking performances and contrails from Europe’s top-notch pilots, including the Scandinavian Airshow Wingwalk, the aerial acrobatics of Artur Kielak, Phoenix Paramotor Display Team, Bushcat Demo Team, airborne pyrotechnics, skywriting demonstrations by the Skytexter formation, and the Scandinavian Ragnarok Team Show.In between the aerial performances, visitors were treated to dances, mini parade, and roving installations, as well as an exhibition showcasing classic airplanes. The Visit Qatar hot air balloon also enthralled spectators with a brief night glow.The Poseidon waterscreen and the First Laser show ushered in the nighttime activities. This was followed by the Phoenix Paramotors, Bushcat Demo Team, Scandinavian Airshow, and the GROBS grande finale Intro Scandinavian Airborne Pyrotechnics.Touted as the largest event of its kind in the region, the inaugural Lusail Sky Festival will culminate tomorrow with a grand finale of fireworks, Poseidon waterscreen laser show, and laser show.Throughout the festival, spectators will enjoy a spectacular series of open-air activities, including skydiving demonstrations, nightly synchronised laser and fireworks displays with music and light effects, and a spectacular drone show featuring over 3,000 illuminated drones and 150 pyrotechnic-equipped aircraft, creating captivating nighttime imagery.Aside from the aerial performances, visitors can also enjoy the food zone, which features 14 food trucks and carts for a wide range of culinary delights. The entertainment theatre also features live performances and many other family-friendly activities.

The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) ensures that its new arbitration rules are aligned with the latest international industry trends that have been in effect since the beginning of 2025, an official has said.Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani, chairman of both QICCA and Qatar Chamber, said the implementation of the centre’s new arbitration rules was announced as early as November last year during the ‘5th World Conference on International Arbitration’ held in Doha under the theme ‘Arbitration in the MENA Region – Present and Future.’“At QICCA, a part of Qatar Chamber, our strategic vision aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to enhance a sustainable investment environment and position Qatar as a global knowledge-based economic hub.“Based on this vision, we remain committed to providing exceptional services and earning the trust of those engaged in commercial arbitration by attracting highly skilled and experienced professionals,” Sheikh Khalifa said in a recent edition of Al Moltaqa, the chamber’s economic magazine.Sheikh Khalifa further said, “We are also committed to forging strategic partnerships with leading international arbitration centres and institutions. This commitment stems from our firm belief in arbitration as an effective means of dispute resolution, offering several key advantages. These include the ability for disputing parties to select the language, applicable law, and venue for arbitration.”These statements reflect Qatar Chamber’s 2025-2030 strategy, which its board of directors recently approved in March. According to Sheikh Khalifa, the strategy focuses on resource sustainability and service development to keep pace with digital transformation and economic changes. It also paves the way for QICCA to implement a new strategy for the centre.He also said the strategy aims to position Qatar as a global strategic hub for the private sector, making it the top choice for doing business, while its mission is to promote and support the Qatari private sector locally and globally, representing and defending its interests.With new arbitration rules in effect and strengthened by last month’s approval of Qatar Chamber’s 2025-2030 strategy, Sheikh Khalifa emphasised that this reflects the country’s commitment to fostering a favourable climate for arbitration and the development of a pro-investment environment.“Arbitration also guarantees privacy, efficiency, speed, effectiveness, and flexibility, with binding and enforceable judgments that are not subject to appeal except in specific circumstances. These attributes make arbitration the preferred option for resolving disputes,” he pointed out.Citing the rapid increase in the volume and diversity of global economic activities, Sheikh Khalifa noted that commercial arbitration has emerged as one of the most important mechanisms for resolving disputes.“With the rise of disputes both locally and internationally, finding quick and effective solutions between the disputing parties has become essential, positioning arbitration as a key alternative to litigation in courts,” he stressed, underscoring that QICCA remains committed to adopting principles and procedures used by leading international arbitration institutions and centres.Sheikh Khalifa added: “We also adopted the latest internationally recognised legal frameworks, foremost among them is the Model Arbitration Rules of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), as revised in 2010.“Moreover, we remain dedicated to staying abreast of legal developments and updates. In coordination with the Ministry of Justice in Qatar, we continuously work to enhance the legal and legislative infrastructure related to arbitration, ensuring that our laws align with international best practices.”

Branding and effective communication remain indispensable factors for startups seeking to thrive in Qatar’s burgeoning entrepreneurship ecosystem, according to Doha-based industry experts.In a panel discussion titled ‘Building Your Startup Brand: Marketing and Communication Essentials’ hosted by Startup Grind Qatar, Rahma Abid, acting CMO, Snoonu; and Denise Yammine Chouity, general manager, Pin&Notch, tackled the importance of communication, branding, and value proposition for startups.Moderated by Gaurav Sachddeva of The Founders Majlis, the panel discussion emphasised how these elements play a key role in helping businesses compete for differentiation and effective positioning in the industry, especially in Qatar.Chouity emphasised the importance of communication, saying it is not merely about crafting the right message, but about ensuring the public connects to the brand. She noted that when brands fail to communicate effectively, they are considered irrelevant by their target audience.“We believe in this simple statement: ‘If we don’t talk, we don’t exist’. If an entrepreneur is doing great and passionate about the business, but he or she is not communicating to the right audience, then they don’t exist to me as a potential audience,” Chouity pointed out.According to Chouity, funding, attracting investors, and securing partners before even reaching a target audience are among the primary challenges facing startup owners, making communication all the more critical.“These obstacles make it crucial to have a well-defined communication strategy. It is very hard to build something out of that,” noted Chouity, who also explained the importance of aligning communication with the needs of the target audience.Chouity also highlighted the foundational steps to build a brand and called on entrepreneurs and startup owners to prioritise research when conceptualising brand identity.“Research helps define the ‘value proposition’ or ‘unique selling point’, which would set a brand apart in the market. One should consider the following questions: ‘What differentiates me?’ Is it a value-added service to what others do?’ ‘Is it a new virtual way of doing things?’ This comes before any marketing or communication,” she explained.Chouity added: “Research, clear messaging, and emotional resonance play a critical role in successful branding. When a value proposition is identified, everything comes easy. The research lays the groundwork for the story, the design, and ultimately, the connection with the audience.”Meanwhile, Abid shared the foundational stages of Snoonu, highlighting the brand’s evolution from a graduation project of its founder, Hamad al-Hajri, to a prominent brand rooted in Qatar’s tech ecosystem.According to Abid, al-Hajri envisioned Snoonu as a homegrown tech company that could support the local ecosystem and improve the lives of people in Qatar. “Why isn't there a real Qatari tech company that is 100% made in Qatar and to support the Qatari ecosystem? And why I don’t make Qataris’ lives better and easier? That’s how Snoonu started,” said Abid, quoting al-Hajri.Abid noted that Snoonu’s transition from an academic project to a successful venture was deeply tied to understanding the essence of branding, noting that pivotal elements of the company’s branding and marketing journey include storytelling, building emotional connections, and personal branding.“Branding is not just about slogans or visual identity. The moment you realise that building a brand is about providing an experience to the customer, everything changes. You begin to understand the purpose behind your business and why you started it in the first place.“It’s about connecting emotionally with your customers, investors, and employees. That’s what it means to build a brand. Once you grasp this concept, you don’t need a large team or numerous resources. This is how Snoonu began,” Abid further explained.

Qatar could become a new model for urban living owing to its world-class infrastructure and focus on building smart cities, such as Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) and Lusail City, a top official of LuLu Group said.Acknowledging the growing trend for cognitive cities due to artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, and rapid technological advancements, Dr Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group International, said Qatar would be an “interesting” testing ground for different pilot projects.“First of all, much of the world now knows that a lot of work has already been done in Qatar, thanks to the successful staging of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which thrust the country into the international spotlight,” Dr Althaf told Gulf Times.He continued: “We already have a smart city infrastructure, excellent broadband connectivity, and all that is already there. Much of this technology, and all the other support mechanisms, are already established.”Althaf was referring to two of Qatar’s world-class real estate gems, MDD - the flagship project of Msheireb Properties - and Lusail City, Qatari Diar’s flagship project touted as the country’s “smart city of the future”.According to Khalifa al-Mana, senior manager, City Control Centre and Smart Operations at Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Lusail’s 20-year development journey “represents a bold step forward in sustainable, smart urban living”.With “$45bn” worth of infrastructure investments, Lusail is “the largest real estate project in Qatar”, spanning 38mn sq m, al-Mana pointed out. The project is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and forward-thinking design, he said, adding that 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,” al-Mana further explained.MDD, on the other hand, is recognised as the world’s first fully built smart and sustainable city district, and a flagship project for sustainable urban development and technological innovation in Qatar, according to a previously published Msheireb Properties statement.Earlier news reports also quoted Msheireb Properties CEO engineer Ali al-Kuwari as saying: “MDD demonstrates how intelligent urban planning can transform cities through smart solutions that place residents at the centre of development. Our innovative approach blends traditional architecture with cutting-edge technology to enhance daily life while preserving our cultural heritage.”Last month, Msheireb Properties organised the inaugural edition of ‘Downtown Tech’, which featured four specialised zones dedicated to AI, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and autonomous vehicles interconnected through a central nervous system design, symbolising the fusion of human creativity and technological innovation.According to Ahmed al-Korbi, Senior ICT Manager at Msheireb Properties, ‘Downtown Tech’ represents a commitment to making technology accessible and engaging for everyone.“As operators of one of the world's most advanced smart cities, with over 650,000 connected IoT devices, Msheireb Properties wanted to create an interactive platform where the community could experience the future of technology firsthand,” al-Korbi noted.Dr Althaf emphasised that during his travels around the world, he learned that industry experts with a keen interest in machine learning and AI-related projects have lauded Qatar, particularly MDD, describing the area as “a microcosm of the world's population.”He said: “If someone in India told me that running a data marketing campaign to gather a dataset for training AI in the country is challenging due to its diversity in languages and states, I would understand. To collect such material, they would need to cover a wide geographic area.“However, by focusing on just one or two buildings in Qatar, he could potentially obtain a diverse range of languages and people, providing excellent training data for large language models.”Dr Althaf added: “I think Qatar’s status as a young country with modern infrastructure makes it more open to such discussions. This is interesting, and I hope Qatar will generate interest among developers. I am optimistic that the country could become a new urban living model.”

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines is keen on fostering partnerships between Filipino and Qatari companies, which could potentially lead to businesses in the Southeast Asian nation to expand their footprint by setting up operations Qatar, an official has said.According to Vince Lorenzo Liwanag, the Commercial Attache of the Philippine Trade Investment Centre (PTIC) – Riyadh, Department of Trade and Industry, forging partnerships with companies and businesses in Qatar “is the first step”.Liwanag also underscored the importance of exploring the business climate of the country, studying potential investment ventures, and understanding the needs of the companies of both countries.“Once these initial steps have been taken, we hope that partnerships, joint ventures (JVs), or specific structures will advance the potential business for both the Philippines and Qatar,” Liwanag told Gulf Times.Forging partnerships, access to international markets, and expanding operations in Qatar reflect the objectives of the DTI’s Outbound Business Matching Mission (OBMM), which was held in Qatar last month, in collaboration with the Philippine embassy in Doha and Qatar Chamber.Liwanag explained that the OBMM is one of the DTI’s key initiatives to connect Filipino businesses with international partners. The Qatar leg of the OBMM was followed by a visit to Amman, Jordan; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and Dubai in the UAE.In his speech during the OBMM, Qatar Chamber board member Abdulla bin Mohamed al-Emadi reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to facilitating partnerships and supporting Qatari businesses in identifying investment prospects in the Philippines.Al-Emadi underscored the private sector’s significant role in forging economic ties to advance trade partnerships, explore JVs, and secure potential investment opportunities. He said bilateral trade between the Philippines and Qatar stood at QR636mn in 2024, reflecting the growing partnership between the two nations.He noted that Philippine-Qatar trade and investment have been “expanding rapidly”, citing the visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to the Philippines last year, where several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements were signed in the presence of both nations’ leaderships.Liwanag emphasised that the OBMM initiative aims to catalyse these types of engagements. “We’re pleased with the outcome of the OBMM and we hope that this could trigger more meaningful interactions and partnerships that can drive progress and innovation between companies in the Philippines and Qatar,” he said.In 2023, Mekeni Food Corporation president Prudencio “Pruds” Garcia and Alwatania International Holdings CEO Hassan Alkhiyami signed a commercial agreement for the processing, distribution, and marketing of Mekeni products in Qatar.Mekeni is headquartered in the Philippine province of Pampanga. The company soft-launched its export business in Dubai as early as 2011. Currently, Mekeni’s halal ‘Picnic Hotdog’, ‘Chicken Tocino’, and ‘Chicken Longanisa’ brands are also available in the US, the UAE, Canada, Australia, Bahrain, Brunei, The Netherlands, and New Zealand.“With Doha as our hub in the Gulf, plans are in the pipeline to expand our export target to more GCC countries, as well as those in Europe and other mainstream markets to give OFWs and Filipinos living permanently abroad a taste of world-class Filipino food products in the hope that we can somehow fill the void of missing home,” Garcia said.

The Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) recently held a pivotal meeting in Montreal with representatives from the Quebec provincial government to discuss ways to foster cooperation between Quebec and Qatar, focusing on strengthening ties in sectors of mutual interest, an official stated.CQBF executive director Yasser Dhouib told Gulf Times that the event brought together key representatives from the Ministère des Relations Internationales et de la Francophonie in the Quebec government, including Nemer Ramadan and Charlie Martineau.“During the meeting, the insights provided by Nemer Ramadan and Charlie Martineau added immense value to the discussions. Together, we explored a range of strategic initiatives aimed at deepening the ties between Qatar and Quebec,” Dhouib explained.He said: “Our conversations revolved around fostering investment opportunities, advancing trade collaborations, and unlocking the potential for innovation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and healthcare.“This dialogue highlighted the shared commitment of both regions to harness cutting-edge technologies for economic growth and social well-being. It was inspiring to witness the energy and enthusiasm for building a future of mutual prosperity and collaboration.”Dhouib said: “The exchanges were not only fruitful but also underscored the importance of creating sustainable and innovative partnerships between nations. I look forward to seeing the ideas discussed during the meeting transform into tangible projects.”The Montreal meeting underscores CQBF’s strategic plans to foster robust ties with Qatar’s key players and institutions in the Gulf nation’s public and private sectors.Earlier, the forum led around a dozen Canadian companies during the successful second edition of Web Summit Qatar held in Doha last February, playing a key role in strengthening business and technology ties between both countries.Led by CQBF senior business adviser Ibrahim Abdel Halim and senior technology adviser Vartika Manasvi, the forum’s participation in the summit aimed to position Qatar as a “gateway for Canadian businesses into the region while reinforcing its role as a technology hub.”During the summit, the CQBF delegation held meetings with multiple Qatari stakeholders to encourage Canadian companies to explore the country’s investment climate and study opportunities to expand their footprint here.Looking ahead, the CQBF is preparing for a significant visit to Qatar this coming April. The delegation, led by Philippe Couillard, the 31st Premier of Quebec, comprises prominent Canadian high-tech companies in healthcare and diabetes-related fields.The visit is set to mark a strategic milestone for Canadian and Quebec investors, offering a closer look at Qatar’s dynamic role as the hub of the GCC region. With numerous incentives already in place, CQBF believes that Qatar presents an exceptional opportunity for Canadian companies and investors eager to explore new horizons in a rapidly growing market.Similarly, the upcoming visit underscores the shared commitment to forging sustainable partnerships that drive economic growth and innovation and promises to be a key element in deepening ties between both nations while aligning business interests with vibrant prospects in the region.

Dr Philippe Couillard, the 31st Premier of Quebec, has lauded Qatar’s move to reshape its international identity by expanding its role beyond a key player in the world energy market to positioning itself as a pivotal hub for social and cultural development on the global stage.Couillard made the statement ahead of his visit to the country next month to lead a delegation of prominent Canadian high-tech companies in healthcare and diabetes-related diseases under the auspices of the Canadian-Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) and in collaboration with the embassies of both countries.In a statement to Gulf Times, Couillard expressed his admiration for Qatar, which, he said, is leveraging its vast natural gas reserves and significant investments in the country’s energy sector while simultaneously fostering an environment that nurtures artistic expression and cultural dialogue, citing Qatar Foundation (QF).According to Couillard, it is encouraging to observe how Qatar has diversified from its thriving energy sector, particularly in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, and utilises LNG-derived income for the socio-economic development of the nation.“It is reassuring to see Qatar reinvest the wealth and resources generated by its energy industry, LNG in particular, into socio-economic development. In that context, I am particularly interested in the work of the Qatar Foundation, which was founded by His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and led by Her Highness Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Sheikha Moza bint Nasser with a strong emphasis on education, culture, innovation, and the full participation of women in society,” Couillard pointed out.While this coming April would be his first visit to Qatar, Couillard emphasised that he is aware of the high quality of the country’s healthcare system. He also praised Qatar’s economic transformation and efforts to bring peace to the region by taking on an intermediary role on the global stage.“During the following years, I followed with interest Qatar’s rapid modernisation and the actions it has taken on the international scene as the country often positions itself as an energy superpower while acting as an intermediary to bring Israel and the Palestinian representatives to participate in diplomatic discussions, thus advancing the search for peace in the region. Since October 7, 2024, this has again been proven to be the case,” Couillard stressed.CQBF executive director Yasser Dhouib told Gulf Times that Couillard’s upcoming visit to Qatar is a welcome development as the forum strives to enhance Canada-Qatar relations in a wide range of sectors, where Quebec’s former First Minister’s expertise is expected to play a crucial role.Couillard first practised medicine, specifically neurosurgery more than 20 years ago, mostly in academic settings where I eventually became chairman of Surgery. He was also a consultant for Saudi Aramco Medical Organisation at the Dhahran Health Centre for five years, where he co-founded a neurosurgical service with Jordanian colleague Dr Mahmoud Karmi.Couillard entered politics in 2003 and was first the Minister of Health for Quebec until 2008. He left politics for a few years but returned in 2013 as leader of the Liberal Party of Quebec. Subsequently, he became the 31st Premier of the province between 2014 and 2018.He said, “During the interval between the two stages of my political career I also had interactions with the GCC region through my participation in the International Advisory Board together with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health.”Couillard added: “During my career, I also acted as a consultant in many sectors beyond healthcare, such as public policy, environment, technology, and the combination of these areas in the broader topic of energy transition. I was involved with a UK-based battery manufacturing company and subsequently co-founded Eleqtrion, which specialises in energy storage with aluminium ion batteries.”

The Association of Filipino Real Estate Executives in Qatar (Afreeq) has commended the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) for the “groundbreaking” initiatives in modernising Qatar’s property sector, which were discussed during the recently held Real Estate Brokers’ Forum.As many as 22 Filipino property professionals from leading locally licensed real estate companies and visiting agents representing developers in the Philippines attended the forum, Afreeq chairman Dr Joseph Timothy Rivera told Gulf Times in a statement.Rivera lauded Khalid bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, the chairman of Aqarat, for his commitment to safeguarding the rights and entitlements of duly licensed real estate agents during the forum.He also acknowledged Aqarat’s clarifications on freehold ownership policies and the MoJ’s streamlined licensing procedures for real estate brokers, which aim to enhance industry professionalism and transparency.“With efficient regulations now in place, it is imperative for all Filipino real estate professionals in Qatar to obtain their official licences to operate legally and competitively in the market,” Rivera emphasised.Rivera also underscored Afreeq’s commitment to working closely with Aqarat in providing the necessary training and seminars to help Filipino real estate practitioners meet licensing requirements.“The proactive steps taken by the Ministry of Justice and Aqarat will undoubtedly reinforce investor confidence and ensure a more structured and professional real estate landscape in Qatar. These initiatives mark a new era of growth, sustainability, and protection for real estate professionals, property owners, and investors alike,” said Rivera.He also noted that Afreeq is looking forward to continuous collaboration with authorities in Qatar in upholding global real estate standards while ensuring that Filipino professionals play a significant role in the country’s dynamic property industry, ensuring that best practices align with Qatar National Vision 2030.“The association also looks forward to further dialogue and co-operation with Aqarat in advancing progressive policies that benefit both the local and expatriate communities, particularly in Aqarat’s mandate in setting licensing and classification standards for real estate professionals in line with global best practices; boosting real estate professionals’ competence through training, awareness, and capacity building; ensuring transparency and fairness through clear, accountable procedures; regulating real estate marketing with clear, legally compliant guidelines; and ensuring quality service through professional conduct and ethical standards,” Rivera added.

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