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Saturday, February 21, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "global" (206 articles)

Gulf Times
International

China successfully launches new satellite

China on Sunday sent a new satellite into space from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in its southwestern Sichuan Province.The Gaofen-14-02 satellite was launched aboard a Long March-3B carrier rocket and entered the planned orbit successfully.This satellite is capable of efficiently acquiring high-precision stereo imagery on a global scale, providing fundamental geographic information support for national economic development and national defense construction.The launch marked the 603rd flight mission of the Long March carrier rocket series.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar reaffirms its firm commitment to UN Charter

The State of Qatar has renewed its unwavering commitment to the Charter of the United Nations, affirming its continued support for the international organization, the strengthening of its partnerships, and its backing of reform efforts aimed at enhancing the UN's effectiveness and responsiveness to global challenges. This came in a statement delivered by Her Excellency Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, during the Open Debate of the Security Council on "The United Nations Organization: Looking into the Future," held at the UN Headquarters in New York. Her Excellency noted that over the past eighty years, the United Nations has served as an indispensable global platform for promoting multilateralism and realizing the purposes of the Charter. It has achieved notable successes in preventing and containing numerous conflicts around the world, reflecting the organization's critical role in maintaining international peace and security. She emphasized that the State of Qatar has remained a strategic partner committed to the Charter and objectives of the United Nations, highlighting its leading role in mediation efforts, peaceful conflict resolution, and de-escalation in various regions across the globe. Her Excellency outlined Qatar's recent achievements, notably its successful mediation, alongside the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of Turkiye, and the United States of America, which led to a ceasefire agreement and the end of the war in Gaza, signed on the 13th of this month. This agreement was the result of two years of tireless efforts aimed at halting bloodshed, ending humanitarian suffering, and securing the release of prisoners and hostages. She added that Qatar continues its efforts in mediation and deescalation, pointing to its hosting earlier this month of delegations from the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the caretaker government of Afghanistan, as part of its initiative to facilitate dialogue and promote stability between the two countries, in cooperation with the Republic of Turkiye. Her Excellency also highlighted Qatar's outreach to the African continent, noting that in March, it hosted a dialogue between the Republic of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These efforts culminated in the signing of a mechanism for monitoring and verifying the ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on October 14, in accordance with the "Doha Declaration of Principles" signed in July 2025. She expressed gratitude to the United States for its fruitful partnership in this regard. Her Excellency stressed Qatar's call for a comprehensive review of the United Nations system, focusing on modernizing working methods and ensuring the implementation of Security Council and General Assembly resolutions in a way that guarantees accountability and avoids selectivity. She underscored the need for tangible measures to address the crisis of trust by reviving the spirit of dialogue, strengthening cooperation and unity within the organization, and ensuring pluralism and inclusivity in global governance, with greater roles for developing and small states in decision-making processes. Her Excellency also emphasized the urgency of accelerating UN reform efforts and supporting the implementation of the "UN 80" initiative across its three tracks, commending the proposals outlined in the Secretary-General's report titled "A Breakthrough for People and Planet: Effective and Inclusive Global Governance for Today and the Future". Her Excellency concluded by affirming the importance of the new peace agenda, which focuses on investing in prevention, addressing root causes of conflict, building sustainable peace, and enhancing mediation, stressing that the success of this vision requires effective structures and strong political will to improve coordination within the organization.

Gulf Times
Business

Why entrepreneurs are expanding their business to the UAE

Over the past decade, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. Thanks to its thriving economy, investor-friendly policies, and unmatched access to global markets, the UAE offers the perfect environment for ambitious business owners seeking to grow internationally. Whether you’re a startup founder, SME owner, or established enterprise, expanding to the UAE can open doors to limitless opportunities. For many entrepreneurs exploring business setup in Dubai, the country’s progressive reforms, tax incentives, and world-class infrastructure make it an obvious next step for scaling up operations and entering new markets. In this article, we’ll explore the main reasons why entrepreneurs are expanding their business to the UAE — from economic advantages and access to global trade routes to lifestyle benefits and government support. A strategic global location One of the most compelling reasons to expand to the UAE is its prime geographical position. Located between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the country acts as a natural bridge connecting global markets. Entrepreneurs benefit from: Access to 2 billion consumers within a four-hour flight radiusWorld-class logistics hubs, including Dubai International Airport and Jebel Ali Port—two of the busiest in the worldTime zone advantage, allowing businesses to operate efficiently across both eastern and western markets For e-commerce companies, manufacturers, and service providers, this strategic positioning enables faster trade, lower transportation costs, and smoother global coordination. The UAE’s connectivity through air, sea, and digital infrastructure makes it the ultimate gateway for international expansion. Investor-friendly business environment The UAE government continues to implement reforms that make doing business simpler, faster, and more transparent. Over the years, the country has built a reputation as one of the most business-friendly destinations in the world — reflected in its consistently high ranking on global ease-of-doing-business indexes. Some of the standout features include: 100% foreign ownership in most business sectorsNo personal income tax and highly competitive corporate tax ratesEase of company formation through digital and paperless systemsStable and reliable legal framework based on international standards Free zones across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah further simplify the process by offering entrepreneurs attractive benefits such as zero customs duties, full profit repatriation, and streamlined licensing procedures. These factors combine to create a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly environment that nurtures business growth. Access to a diversified and resilient economy While the UAE’s economy was once largely dependent on oil, today it is one of the most diversified in the region. Non-oil sectors such as tourism, logistics, finance, technology, healthcare, and renewable energy now contribute significantly to the country’s GDP. This diversification offers entrepreneurs a range of opportunities to invest and expand: Technology and innovation: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are developing into regional innovation hubs, home to incubators, accelerators, and fintech companies.Tourism and hospitality: Millions of visitors travel to the UAE every year, creating demand for unique experiences, services, and products.Green energy and sustainability: The UAE’s Vision 2031 and Net Zero 2050 strategies open the door to investors in clean technology and sustainability. By operating in a diversified economy, entrepreneurs reduce risk exposure to single-sector fluctuations and position themselves within an ecosystem built for long-term growth. Advanced infrastructure and digital transformation Another reason why global entrepreneurs are drawn to the UAE is its state-of-the-art infrastructure and commitment to digital innovation. The country consistently ranks among the top globally in infrastructure quality, telecommunications, and smart city initiatives. Key infrastructure advantages: High-speed connectivity and widespread 5G coverageWorld-leading ports and logistics facilities for seamless imports and exportsFree zone and business parks designed specifically for startups and international companiesSmart government services that allow entrepreneurs to handle business registration, licensing, and visa applications online Dubai’s and Abu Dhabi’s ongoing push toward becoming fully digital economies means that entrepreneurs can easily manage operations remotely, leverage e-government platforms, and integrate new technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain into their business models. This focus on innovation creates a competitive edge for businesses that rely on automation, data analytics, and digital tools to scale efficiently. Quality of life and talent attraction Beyond its business advantages, the UAE offers one of the highest standards of living in the world, making it an appealing destination for entrepreneurs and employees alike. Safe cities, modern healthcare, world-class education, and a vibrant multicultural community attract top talent from across the globe. Lifestyle and workforce benefits include:A cosmopolitan environment with residents from over 200 nationalitiesTax-free personal income, allowing professionals to maximize earningsAccess to skilled labor, particularly in finance, technology, and creative industriesResidency and long-term visa options for investors, business owners, and highly skilled workers Entrepreneurs who establish their companies in the UAE can also benefit from programs such as the Golden Visa and the Green Visa, which offer long-term residency and stability for business owners and their families. This combination of professional opportunity and exceptional lifestyle makes the UAE not only a place to do business but also a place to build a future. **media[372572]** The UAE continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors from every corner of the world — and for good reason. Its strategic location, pro-business policies, diverse economy, world-class infrastructure, and exceptional quality of life make it one of the best places globally to expand operations and achieve long-term growth. For entrepreneurs exploring business setup in Dubai, the country provides everything needed for success: stability, innovation, access to global markets, and an environment designed for entrepreneurship. Expanding your business to the UAE isn’t just a smart move — it’s a step toward building a brand that thrives on the global stage.

Picture: Noushad Thekkayil
Business

GECF 27th Ministerial Meeting gets underway in Doha

The opening session was addressed by His Excellency the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi and GECF Secretary General Mohamed Hamel. The 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) is currently taking place in Doha, bringing together official delegations, senior officials, researchers, and leading energy experts.The high-level gathering is providing a unique platform for dialogue and collaboration, focusing on the future of natural gas and its vital role in strengthening global energy security..

Gulf Times
Qatar

HMC accorded Planetree Gold Certification

Hamad Medical Corp (HMC) has been recognised internationally for its excellence in advancing person-centred care, with four of its facilities and services honoured during the Planetree Person-Centered Care Global Forum held in Baltimore, US.At the event, the Communicable Disease Center (CDC), Women's Wellness and Research Centre (WWRC), Enaya Specialised Care Centre and Private Nursing Services (PNS) were formally recognised for their recent achievements in achieving Planetree Gold Certification.The CDC received the Gold Certification with Distinction, the highest level awarded by Planetree International, while WWRC, Enaya and PNS each achieved Gold Certification.These achievements reflect HMC's commitment to placing compassion, collaboration and patient and family engagement at the heart of care delivery.The certifications demonstrate how HMC continues to align with international best practices in ensuring that healthcare experiences are not only clinically excellent but also empathetic and inclusive.The Planetree Person-Centred Care Global Forum is one of the world's leading gatherings focused on improving healthcare experiences. The annual event brings together healthcare leaders, clinicians, patient advocates, and policy experts from across the globe to share insights and innovations.This year's forum hosted delegations from more than 30 countries, offering an opportunity for international collaboration and learning.The Planetree certification programme assesses how healthcare organisations engage patients, families, staff and communities in shaping care that is compassionate, respectful and collaborative.These international recognitions mark a significant milestone in HMC's system-wide implementation of person-centered care values and reinforce Qatar's position as a leader in high-quality, patient-focused healthcare.

Picture: QNA
Business

IMF says growth accelerating in the Middle East, North Africa

Growth has accelerated in Middle Eastern and North African countries this year despite global uncertainty and conflicts in the region, according to an IMF report published on Tuesday."Despite all the shocks we saw to trade with the tariff measures, geopolitical tension, the conflicts, the volatility in oil prices, we see that growth has been performing better than last year," Jihad Azour, IMF director for the Middle East and Central Asia, said in an interview with AFP."And it's not only in a group of countries, but I would say spread around the region," he added.The institution presented its latest regional report in Dubai on Tuesday, forecasting growth of 3.3 percent this year in the MENA region and 3.7 percent in 2026–0.7 and 0.3 percentage points higher, respectively, than its previous projections in May.The region's GDP grew by 2.1 percent in 2024.Gulf countries have particularly benefited from increased oil production, which offset falling prices, while others saw gains from rebounds in tourism, industry or agriculture, Azour explained.Despite the war in Gaza, "the region was able to withstand the big geopolitical shock of the last two years", including neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Egypt, Azour said.The current ceasefire in the Palestinian territory is "an important and welcome development", but it is still too early to know whether it will affect the region's economic outlook."The impact on the region hinges on how this stability will materialise into improvement in the overall risk profile for the region and also what we see of potential reconstruction or post-conflict in Syria, Lebanon and in Gaza, and also later in the West Bank," he explained.The immediate priority is to assess the damage in Gaza and the reconstruction needs, with support from the United Nations and the World Bank, Azour added.Financing needs will also be "immense" in other conflict-affected countries such as war-wracked Yemen and Sudan due to declining international aid, he added.

The Longines Global Champions Tour winners.
Qatar

LGCT returns to Rabat as legacy of Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture

The Longines Global Champions Tour (LGCT) has returned to Rabat, upholding the cultural and diplomatic bond forged between Qatar and Morocco during the successful 2024 Year of Culture (YoC) initiative. In a statement, Qatar’s ambassador to Morocco HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Thamer al-Thani said: “The Years of Culture initiative was never about a single moment, but about creating exchanges that continue to live on.” “Seeing that spirit carried forward through the Longines Global Champions Tour reminds us how sport can keep cultural connections alive long after the official celebrations end,” he said. Jan Tops, founder and president of the Longines Global Champions Tour, said: “What began as a collaboration under the Qatar-Morocco Year of Culture has grown into an enduring connection, reminding us that horses have long been a bridge between people, traditions, and continents.” This year’s event marked the 15th leg of the 2025 Tour, held just before the Riyadh finale. The world’s top 30 riders competed in one of the most striking venues on the circuit, framed by the Hassan Tower, the Rabat Grand Theatre, and the Mohammed VI Tower, landmarks that embody the city’s harmony between tradition and modernity.

Gulf Times
Qatar

ASD hosts Global Art Teachers Exchange

The American School of Doha (ASD) recently hosted the Global Art Teachers Exchange (GATE), an international conference that brings together visual arts educators from around the world to collaborate, learn, and celebrate creativity. Established in 2018, the GATE provides relevant, practical, and affordable professional development designed specifically for visual arts teachers. Each year, a different international school hosts this independently organised and funded event, with the goal of fostering collaboration and the exchange of innovative teaching practices. This year, the ASD welcomed 65 art educators from more than 25 countries, for a weekend of immersive workshops, presentations, and cultural excursions. The programme is aimed at inspiring new ideas and strengthening global connections in arts education. “After a year of preparation, from proposal to selection among top international schools, we were thrilled to open our doors to art educators from across the globe,” said ASD visual arts teacher and GATE team lead Klara Hermanek. “Our Visual Arts team is passionate about creating an environment where creativity, expertise, and collaboration thrive,” she said. “Hosting the GATE was a chance to share the love of art teaching with colleagues worldwide.” Spearheaded by Inge Winters, Joni Muller, Carla Otero, Wendy Zarter, Klara Hermanek, Ryan Pace, Liz Estudillo, and John Venditti, the ASD Visual Arts Department led the event, showcasing the school’s dedication to artistic excellence and global engagement. At the heart of the GATE is its participatory model: attendees lead workshops, facilitate discussions, and share classroom-ready resources. Sessions ranged from early childhood to high school art education, emphasising hands-on, practical approaches directly applicable to the classroom. The conference concluded with a strong sense of community and renewed enthusiasm for teaching the visual arts, underscoring the universal power of art to connect people across cultures and inspire lifelong learning, a statement added.

Gulf Times
Business

Oil prices dip amid trade tensions and demand concerns

Oil prices slipped in early Asian trading on Monday, weighed down by concerns over a potential global supply glut and renewed US-China trade tensions that have heightened fears of slower economic growth and weaker energy demand. Brent Crude futures fell $0.24, or 0.4%, to $61.05 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $0.21, or 0.4%, to $57.33, erasing gains from the previous session. Both benchmarks declined more than 2% last week, marking a third consecutive weekly loss, following the International Energy Agency's warning of a growing supply surplus expected in 2026. Trade friction between the world's two largest oil consumers intensified after Washington and Beijing imposed additional port fees on vessels carrying goods between them — a tit-for-tat move that analysts say could disrupt global shipping flows and dampen demand for crude.

Gulf Times
Qatar

On World Statistics Day: Reliable data drives development and shapes the future

The United Nations marks World Statistics Day on October 20 each year, underscoring the vital role that accurate statistics and reliable data play in accelerating global progress and shaping the future. Since its inception, statistics have formed the backbone of international efforts to address global challenges — from maintaining peace and promoting sustainable development to combating climate change and improving public health.The global statistical community — comprising national and international statistical agencies — stands as a model of international cooperation, bringing together experts from around the world to emphasize the centrality of data-driven policymaking.Accurate data enable governments, institutions, and individuals to understand societal complexities, identify priorities, and make informed decisions that advance development goals. The United Nations affirms that evidence-based knowledge is the cornerstone of sound policy formulation and measurable results.Governments and organizations rely on statistical data to assess conditions in fields such as the economy, health, education, and population. Reliable data help identify actual needs, guide the allocation of financial and human resources, and increase the effectiveness of development planning. Without accurate data, planning becomes guesswork and progress uncertain.Statistics also enhance transparency and accountability by enabling performance monitoring and measuring progress toward national and global development goals. They provide tools to evaluate success, detect shortcomings, and make timely adjustments to ensure that goals remain on track.Experts stress that statistics are crucial for tracking progress on key priorities such as reducing poverty, improving education quality, and strengthening infrastructure. They enhance public trust by providing clear and transparent information, reinforcing accountability, and enabling citizens and the international community to evaluate performance objectively.Reliable statistics are also indispensable to scientific research, which drives innovation and helps develop effective solutions to complex challenges in health, agriculture, industry, and the environment. In the face of global crises — such as climate change, pandemics, and poverty — the exchange of accurate data remains essential for coordinating international efforts and formulating effective global strategies.Statistical data likewise underpin key sectors of development. Economic data support market analysis, fiscal and monetary policy formulation, and job creation strategies. In health, data help monitor disease patterns, plan vaccination campaigns, and improve medical services. In education, they guide efforts to raise achievement levels and target support to the most vulnerable groups. Socially, statistics are instrumental in identifying inequalities and directing programs that promote justice, equality, and poverty reduction. The State of Qatar attaches great importance to the role of statistics in supporting national development and building institutional capacity. In this context, the Statistical Training and Data Center of the National Planning Council (NPC), in cooperation with Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, organized in September a specialized training program titled "Economic Statistics for Managers: From Data to Decisions."The initiative forms part of a broader series of programs implemented by the Center to strengthen national competencies and enable government leaders in economic sectors to utilize data and statistics effectively in policymaking.At the conclusion of the program, Hessa Ali Al Maliki, Director of the Statistical Training and Data Center, affirmed that the initiative represents a key step toward enhancing the capabilities of national leaders in the field of economic statistics and data. She noted that the Center is committed to applying international best practices and creating a practical learning environment that supports skills development and raises efficiency at the national level, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy.In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr. Alanoud Ali Al Maadid, Head of the Department of Finance and Economics at Qatar University, emphasized that statistics serve as a fundamental tool of development, as accurate data guide policy formulation, resource allocation, and the prioritization of national goals. She explained that evidence-based data enable the measurement of progress and the adjustment of policies in an objective and transparent manner.Dr. Al Maadid pointed out that the absence of reliable statistics in areas such as infrastructure, economy, and trade often results in decisions based on intuition rather than evidence, leading to wasted resources, misdirected projects, and weak evaluation of growth and employment indicators. She added that investor confidence tends to decline when access to credible information is limited.She also highlighted the importance of statistical data in mitigating natural risks and climate-related events, including earthquakes, heavy rainfall, floods, and rising temperatures. Historical and climate data, she noted, help identify natural patterns, develop risk maps, design early warning systems, and adopt more resilient building codes. Accurate data are equally essential in post-disaster response, facilitating effective relief operations, damage assessment, and reconstruction planning.Regarding the institutions responsible for statistical operations, Dr. Al Maadid stated that national statistical agencies remain the main source of official data. She underlined the importance of professionalism, independence, transparency, and confidentiality, along with the adoption of standardized classifications and methodologies that ensure comparability. She affirmed that reliable statistics constitute the foundation for sound public policies and sustainable development in Qatar.Dr. Al Maadid added that international cooperation plays a significant role in promoting the exchange of data and expertise, harmonizing methodologies, and improving the accuracy of global comparisons, thereby enhancing the quality of indicators and supporting evidence-based policymaking.She noted that despite the growing importance of statistics, several challenges persist, including shortages of qualified personnel, limited funding, restricted data access, and low response rates in some field surveys. She called for continued investment in technological infrastructure, greater utilization of big data with privacy safeguards, and the reinforcement of professional independence to ensure data quality and credibility.Experts around the world share similar views, emphasizing that the lack of financial and technical resources, weak institutional capacities, and inconsistent data standards in some regions hinder the availability of reliable statistics. They agree that trustworthy data form the backbone of any successful development process, transforming national visions into actionable plans that enhance well-being and drive sustainable progress. Strengthening statistical systems, enhancing institutional capabilities, and ensuring the reliability of data remain essential pillars for achieving comprehensive and sustainable development.

Gulf Times
Qatar

QARS, QSGA Participate in 2025 Global JOTA-JOTI Camp

The Qatar Amateur Radio Society (QARS) and the Qatar Scouts and Guides Association (QSGA) participated Saturday in the 2025 Global Jamboree on the Air and Internet (JOTA-JOTI) through a dedicated radio station set up at the Qatar Amateur Radio Society headquarters under the special call sign (A71AJOTA).The global camp marks the 68th edition of JOTA and the 29th of JOTI, offering 48 continuous hours of interaction among scouts worldwide in a unique experience that blends technology, friendship, and global scouting culture.In his remarks, HE Shura Council Member and QARS Vice President Dr. Ahmed bin Hamad Al Mohannadi emphasized the society's annual commitment to such international events that foster global communication among amateur radio enthusiasts.He noted that the society's participation aims to promote cultural exchange, allowing scouts and radio amateurs to project their voices from Qatar to the world, encouraging year-round engagement and knowledge sharing.He added that amateur radio clubs worldwide showcase the latest advancements in radio technology and highlight the role of amateur radio in connecting people across borders. JOTA-JOTI utilizes two communication systems including amateur radio and the internet.QARS Secretary Saba'an Mismar Al Jassim stated that the society is marking its 15th consecutive year of participation in this official international event organized by the World Organization of the Scout Movement.He explained that JOTA is a global event where scouts of all ages from various countries connect via amateur radio stations, enabling and encouraging global communication among scouts, enriching their educational experience, and strengthening their sense of belonging to the global scouting movement.Scout leader Ahmed Khamis Al Yousef, Scouting Activities Consultant at the QSGA expressed pride in Qatar's participation in the global camp, affirming that interaction with scouts worldwide broadens participants' horizons and instills values of understanding and peace.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Al Yousef described the event as a global gathering of scouts and guides, facilitating the exchange of experiences and communication across cultures.He noted that participant selection is based on thorough preparation and the selection of outstanding scouts from both public and private schools, with language skills playing a role in enabling communication across different regions. Some scouts interact with peers from the Arab world, while others engage with scouts from around the globe in various languages, creating a diverse platform for cultural exchange.Media Officer Buthaina Dasmal Al Kuwari from the QSGA emphasized the importance of media coverage for such events, as it reflects the pioneering role of Qatari scouting in global forums.She noted that Qatar's first participation in JOTA-JOTI dates back to 1996 during the maritime camp in Al Khor, marking a deeply rooted legacy in the history of Qatari scouting.

The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, chairman of both Al Faisal Holding and the Qatari Businessmen Association, and shareholder of DHL Global Forwarding Qatar; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, CEO of QFZ; and Samer Kaissi, CEO – Gulf Cluster, DHL Global Forwarding.
Business

DHL Global Forwarding launches regional facility at Qatar free zones

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and DHL Global Forwarding have officially inaugurated the group’s new logistics facility at Ras Bufontas Free Zone.The inauguration marks an important expansion of DHL’s presence in Qatar and reinforces Qatar’s free zones status as a premier destination for global logistics operators.The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, chairman of both Al Faisal Holding and the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA), and shareholder of DHL Global Forwarding Qatar; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, CEO of QFZ; and Samer Kaissi, CEO – Gulf Cluster, DHL Global Forwarding.The new DHL Global Forwarding facility spans more than 1,200sq m and will serve as a regional distribution warehouse specialising in air freight consolidation services, supporting both regional and global distribution networks. Strategically located within proximity to Hamad International Airport, the facility is ideally positioned to capitalise on Qatar’s world-class transport infrastructure and streamlined customs processing.The facility further strengthens Qatar’s appeal as a competitive base for high-value logistics operations. DHL Global Forwarding will offer a suite of services from the new facility, including air, sea and land logistics services, marine shipping agent operations, general warehousing, and customs brokerage.Sheikh Mohammed said: “The inauguration of DHL Global Forwarding in Ras Bufontas Free Zone reflects a strategic step to reinforce Qatar’s stature as a high-value logistics hub, reducing time to markets and enhancing the supply chain flexibility across the region.“As a global logistics leader, DHL will improve the operational capacity, enhance specialised warehousing capabilities, and reinforce multimodal connectivity, benefiting from the proximity to Hamad International Airport, and creating an attractive footprint for partners and suppliers across various economic sectors.”He added: “This investment will also drive our transition from a transit hub to an integrated solutions platform supported by a flexible regulatory framework and advanced digital infrastructure, ensuring new growth prospects and connecting the region to markets in Africa and Asia.”Kaissi said: “Qatar plays a key role in our regional logistics strategy, particularly as we expand our multimodal capabilities across the GCC. Hamad Port has long been a vital part of our network, supporting east-west trade flows. Thanks to our collaboration with the Qatar Free Zones Authority, we now also benefit from improved connectivity to the Hamad International Airport.“With our new facility in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, located close to the airport, we are enhancing our airfreight capabilities, which enable us to deliver even more resilient and scalable logistics solutions, especially for the growing GCC-Africa corridors. This provides us with enhanced flexibility and continuity across critical sectors such as life sciences, energy, and e-commerce.”QFZ remains committed to accelerating Qatar’s logistics growth and enabling strategic investment that aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning the state as a hub for sustainable, innovation-led industrial activity.