The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has teamed up with Microsoft to launch a pioneering “AI Agent Factory” — a digital platform that will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) across government services in a bid to modernise bureaucracy and boost efficiency. The initiative, announced on Friday, marks one of the Gulf state’s most ambitious steps yet in harnessing AI to transform how citizens and businesses interact with public institutions. The platform will enable the ministry to rapidly develop and deploy intelligent AI agents — automated systems capable of handling tasks ranging from processing applications to answering queries — without the lengthy development cycles traditionally associated with government IT projects. Built on Microsoft’s technology infrastructure, the factory is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing government systems whilst allowing new AI-powered services to be rolled out across multiple departments.Ahmed al-Kuwari, director of the ministry’s Information Systems Department, described the launch as a “pivotal step” towards comprehensive automation of government operations. “Leveraging advanced AI technologies will enhance operational efficiency, support decision-making, expand the scope of smart services, and improve their overall quality,” he said. The AI Agent Factory represents the latest in a series of government initiatives to embed artificial intelligence across Qatar’s public sector. In recent months, various ministries have rolled out automated document processing systems, and predictive analytics tools designed to anticipate citizen needs before they arise. The government has also established dedicated AI governance frameworks and invested in training programmes to upskill civil servants in working alongside intelligent systems. The Ministry of Transport and Communications has been piloting AI traffic management systems, whilst the Ministry of Public Health has deployed machine learning algorithms to streamline appointment scheduling and reduce waiting times at healthcare facilities. To Page 5 The platform represents more than just a technical upgrade. By enabling faster deployment of AI solutions, officials hope to create a unified experience for users across different government touchpoints — eliminating the fragmented service delivery that often plagues public sector organisations. Ahmed Dandashi, general manager of Microsoft Qatar, said the partnership would “accelerate digital transformation and deliver sustainable impact for institutions, the business sector, and society.” The ministry indicated that once technical and regulatory frameworks are finalised, it will work with Microsoft to expand the platform’s capabilities and introduce additional AI-powered services in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.The move comes as Gulf nations race to position themselves as regional leaders in artificial intelligence adoption, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia also investing heavily in AI infrastructure and governance frameworks.

UDC to activate The Pearl Island & Gewan Island with full day of community sports on National Sport Day United Development Company (UDC), master developer of The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, will transform its destinations into vibrant, open community spaces on February 10, as it marks Qatar’s National Sport Day (NSD) with a full-day programme of inclusive, community-focused sports, and wellness activities. Building on its continued success year after year, UDC has curated a comprehensive programme spanning multiple zones across The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, reinforcing its commitment to community engagement, wellbeing, and the promotion of active lifestyles. The initiative reflects UDC’s core values by encouraging movement as part of everyday life, strengthening social bonds, and activating public spaces in a way that supports both residents and the wider community.Running from 8am-8pm, the National Sport Day activities will engage residents, visitors, and participating corporate entities from UDC, its subsidiaries, and partner organisations, alongside their employees and families. **media[414215]** The full-day activation is designed to create a memorable, inclusive experience while supporting retail activity and enhancing footfall across key destinations. A highlight of the programme is a community walkathon along Porto Arabia, extending from 1 La Croisette to 10 La Croisette, offering participants an opportunity to stay active while enjoying the waterfront setting. Additional activities will be hosted across prominent locations, including Porto Arabia and Qanat Quartier Boardwalks at The Pearl Island, and Crystal Walk on Gewan Island, turning these destinations into lively gathering points throughout the day. The programme features fitness activation zones, interactive sports areas, table football, and light recreational activities suitable for all age groups. First aid support, health check-up points, and water stations will be available throughout the day to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all participants. Through this initiative, UDC reinforces its role as a lifestyle developer and community builder, supporting national efforts to promote health and well-being in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. By activating public spaces and encouraging active participation, UDC continues to foster stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.