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Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "AI and XR" (225 articles)

Gulf Times
Sport

Al-Mohannadi appeals ITTF presidential vote dispute to sports court

Khalil bin Ahmed al-Mohannadi, President of the Qatar, Arab and Asian Table Tennis Federations and First Vice-President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), has officially filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland, to contest the ITTF presidential elections.Al-Mohannadi described the case as one of “fraud and violation of democratic legitimacy”, echoing media reports that labelled the election outcome the “steal of the century”.The elections, held in Doha in May, ended with al-Mohannadi leading 98–87 in votes cast by national federation representatives present in the hall. However, Swedish candidate Petra Sorling gained an unexpected 17-4 advantage through remote electronic voting, tipping the final result. Al-Mohannadi rejected the validity of the 21 electronic ballots, noting that the number had originally been set at 16. The sudden increase, he said, shocked the General Assembly.In a statement released by the Qatar Table Tennis Association (QTTA) Tuesday, al-Mohannadi emphasised that the 2022 General Assembly in Doha — where 185 federations voted in person — reflected the true will of the membership. He stressed that administrative decisions or internal ITTF procedures should not override the democratic mandate, calling any such move “a violation of the essence of the electoral process and its credibility before the international sports community.”Responding to ITTF President Sorling’s recent remarks that “the file has been closed” and “the elections have been decided”, al-Mohannadi called the statements “misleading and inaccurate”. He pointed out that the ITTF’s internal arbitration decision is not final and remains under review by CAS.Al-Mohannadi underlined that the legal process will remain open until the ITTF General Assembly in London in 2026, where federations will again have the chance to vote. He pledged to pursue all available legal avenues “to defend transparency and protect the rights of member federations”, stressing that the dispute is not personal but “a legal and moral duty toward the global table tennis family”.He also warned against attempts to mislead federations into believing the case is settled, calling such claims a “deliberate distortion of legal reality”. He reaffirmed that the QTTA, alongside allied federations, will continue efforts until CAS delivers its final ruling.“Table tennis is bigger than any administrative or political dispute,” al-Mohannadi concluded, adding that safeguarding democratic legitimacy within the ITTF is “a collective responsibility to protect the future of the sport and its global reputation”.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar participates GCC Electricity and Water Co-operation Committee meeting

Qatar participated in the 31st preparatory meeting of the Electricity and Water Co-operation Committee of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, held in Kuwait. HE President of Qatar General Electricity and Water Corp (Kahramaa) Eng. Abdulla bin Ali Al Theyab led Qatar's delegation at the meeting. The meeting discussed ways to enhance Gulf integration in the electricity and water sectors, progress on electricity and water interconnection projects, and support for energy efficiency and demand management programs. Governance frameworks and monitoring mechanisms for joint projects were also addressed. HE Eng. Al Theyab affirmed Qatar's commitment to continuing to work with its brothers to develop an integrated Gulf infrastructure that ensures the security and sustainability of supplies and supports the goals of the transition to clean energy.

Snoonu founder and chief executive Hamad al-Hajri.
Qatar

Snoonu ups investment in R&D to drive innovation

Snoonu, Qatar’s homegrown super-app and technology leader, has announced an expanded research and development (R&D) growth programme anchored by sustained in-country investment and the highlight of its Innovation District.This initiative reinforces the company’s mission to develop world-class technology in Qatar, for Qatar and the wider region, while contributing directly to the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.Over the years, Snoonu has established a strong record in R&D through pioneering projects in artificial intelligence (AI), logistics, and customer experience.These investments have delivered award-winning outcomes and strengthened Snoonu’s role as a national innovation leader.Over the years, Snoonu has built a strong R&D track record across artificial intelligence, logistics, and customer experience. These investments have delivered award-winning results and reinforced Snoonu’s role as a national innovation leader. With an ambitious ongoing investment program, Snoonu continues to deploy technologies that streamline operations, reduce delivery times, and ultimately save customers valuable time in their daily routines.The new R&D programme is centred on a major milestone in Snoonu’s growth: the Snoonu Innovation District.As a dedicated hub for cutting-edge technologies and talent development, the centre embodies Snoonu’s champion vision to push the boundaries of innovation while creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and collaboration across industries.“Snoonu was built on the belief that Qatar can create technology at global standards while reflecting our local values,” said Snoonu founder and chief executive Hamad al-Hajri. “By deepening our R&D investment and launching the Snoonu Innovation District, we’re putting that belief to work, cultivating talent, accelerating innovation, and delivering impact for our customers, partners, and community.”Looking ahead, Snoonu’s R&D efforts will concentrate on scalable solutions that reinforce Qatar’s position as a global leader in technology.Central to this strategy is the company’s plan to have 1,000 engineers by 2030, creating pathways for local talent to become future technology leaders while enriching the ecosystem with expertise from more than 90 nationalities.This commitment is reflected in Snoonu’s collaboration with Qatar Foundation universities, where graduates are empowered and integrated into the team.“Our five-year R&D strategy focuses on advancing AI, automation, and sustainable green logistics,” said Jose Juan, director of R&D – Logistics Product/Engineering at Snoonu. “We are also strengthening our super-app ecosystem for GCC markets to deliver smarter, more personalised customer experiences while keeping human connection at the core.”Snoonu’s R&D agenda is designed to align with Qatar’s priorities for economic diversification, human capital development, and sustainability.By investing in talent and technology, the company is reinforcing the nation’s innovation ecosystem and contributing to its long-term strategy of becoming a global hub for technology and entrepreneurship.Beyond business growth, Snoonu’s R&D innovations are shaping Qatar’s wider innovation ecosystem.The company has supported global events such as Formula 1, MotoGP, and the Doha Book Fair with advanced technology, while also advancing education through research collaborations and empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and home businesses with digital platforms and reliable infrastructure.These achievements are reinforced by QR800mn in strategic investment from Jahez Group, valuing the company at over QR1bn and making it the first Qatari tech startup to cross this milestone.This landmark positions Snoonu on the path to becoming Qatar’s first “unicorn” and one of the most dynamic technology powerhouses in the GCC.

Gulf Times
Sport

Hawk Mountain impresses in Group 2 Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club Beresford Stakes at the Curragh

In continuation of Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club’s (QREC) efforts to reinforce its global presence through sponsoring some of the most prestigious horse races on the international stage, the Group 2 Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club Beresford Stakes was staged at the Curragh in Ireland Saturday. The QREC-sponsored 1600m race for two-year-old thoroughbreds was landed by Hawk Mountain, which is trained by Aidan O’Brien, ridden by Ronan Whelan and owned by Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier and Michael Tabor. Ahmed AmanAlla al-Sheebani, Director of QREC Support Services Department, presented the trophies to the winners. With this victory under his belt Hawk Mountain confirmed his class and promising start. After breaking his maiden on his second start over this course and distance, he took the step up in class with authority and is now a Group 2 winner following just his third start. Facing four rivals in the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club Beresford Stakes, he dictated the pace from the start, showed a sharp turn of foot when it mattered and stamped his authority with a decisive victory, underlining his growing reputation on the juvenile scene. Breaking smartly from the gate, Hawk Mountain immediately assumed control at the head of affairs, with Shaihaan in second, Port of Spain in third, Geryon in fourth and Al Haarith last of the five. The pace was even to slow in the back straight, with positions unchanged. Rounding the final bend, Hawk Mountain began to increase the tempo, still going easily, while Shaihaan came under pressure and Port of Spain found himself trapped in a pocket. On the outside, Al Haarith began to quicken, but Hawk Mountain had already slipped away from his rivals. Inside the final 300m, he extended his advantage impressively, winning decisively by three and a quarter lengths. Geryon, owned by Newtown Anner Stud Farm Ltd, trained by G M Lyons and ridden by Colin Keane, stayed on strongly to snatch second place, just a head ahead of Al Haarith, who was ridden by Dylan Browne McMonagle for trainer Joseph Patrick O’Brien and owned by Al Wasmiyah Racing, Ballylinch and Umm Al Shukhout Farm. It is worth noting that the QREC’s sponsorship of the race comes as part of its long-term strategy to maintain a strong presence and promote the participation of Qatari owners’ horses in the biggest races at the top European and international racecourses. Over the past years, this strategy has brought numerous benefits, including victories in major international races, opportunities for Qatari owners to compete at the highest level and direct exposure for Qatari trainers and jockeys to the world’s finest equestrian talent, training methods, and racing standards.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Indian embassy organises ‘Viksit Bharat Run’ 2025

The embassy of India in Qatar, jointly with MY Bharat under the Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, organised the Viksit Bharat Run 2025.Held simultaneously across more than 150 international locations, the event became a global celebration of service, fitness, and sustainability.The run in Doha saw participation from the Indian diaspora including students and professionals.Under the theme Run to Serve the Nation, participants from Doha came together for community runs of 1km, 2km, and 6km, turning the event into a powerful statement of collectiveness.It embodied India’s Swadeshi ethos, highlighting the collective call for self-reliance, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility.Approximately 500 runners turned out for the event, with 100 volunteers and many community groups and community organisations joining hands.The event included the recitation of the Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, where participants committed to contributing towards India’s journey of becoming a developed nation by 2047, a statement from the embassy said.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Female warbler bird spotted in Qatar desert

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has spotted a female warbler bird hiding on a ghaf tree in one of the country’s wilderness areas, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor biodiversity and track migratory birds.**media[361729]**The whistling bird is considered a passage migrant that is seen in Qatar every September. It feeds on insects, seeds, and fruits, and is distinguished by its beauty and cautious behaviour, as it usually hides among the branches away from sight.

The Wildlife Development Department organised a field campaign on Tuesday to remove harmful mesquite trees in Rawdat Al-Hayr Al-Sharqi in Ain Sinan area.
Qatar

Harmful mesquite trees removed

As part of its commitment to protect the environment and preserve biodiversity, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change continues its field efforts to remove harmful Prosopis juliflora (mesquite) trees from open areas.This initiative is part of the national plans aimed at combating invasive plant species and reducing their negative impacts on biodiversity within local terrestrial ecosystems.The Wildlife Development Department organised a field campaign on Tuesday to remove harmful mesquite trees in Rawdat Al-Hayr Al-Sharqi in Ain Sinan area.The campaign was carried out with the participation of several ministry employees to complete the removal of this invasive species, which had taken over the vegetation cover in the targeted meadows (Rawda).

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System, aimed at enhancing co-operation in civil aviation.
Business

Qatar signs MoU with Caribbean aviation safety authority

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS), aimed at enhancing co-operation in civil aviation.**media[361685]**The MoU was signed by QCAA Acting President Mohammed bin Faleh al-Hajri and CASSOS chairperson Nari Williams-Singh. The signing took place on the sidelines of the CARICOM Forum, held under the theme "Strengthening Regional Co-operation in Aviation Safety and Security for a Sustainable Future for All," in conjunction with the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), currently taking place in Montreal, Canada.**media[361686]**The agreement aims to bolster co-operation in various areas, including aviation safety, security, air navigation, and environmental sustainability. It also focuses on capacity building and professional development in the civil aviation sector, contributing to sectoral growth and integration of aviation systems both regionally and globally.**media[361687]**On the sidelines of the assembly, al-Hajri also held bilateral meetings with key international aviation leaders, including Deputy Administrator of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Chris Rocheleau; Director General of the Italian Civil Aviation Authority, Alexander D'Orsogna; and Minister of Transport and Infocommunications of the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam, Pengiran Dato Shamhary Mustapha.The meetings discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in civil aviation, support joint initiatives within ICAO, and exchange views on key issues on the agenda of the 42nd ICAO Assembly.

Law enforcement personnel respond at the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, on Wednesday. REUTERS
International

Gunman wrote 'anti-ICE' on unused bullet in fatal attack on US immigration office

Authorities investigating attack as 'act of targeted violence'Shooter fired from nearby rooftop, investigation ongoingKilling adds to fears of rising political violenceA gunman who wrote "ANTI-ICE" on an unused bullet killed one detainee and wounded two others on Wednesday when he fired on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas from a nearby rooftop before taking his own life, officials said.FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photo on X of what he said was the suspect's unused ammunition that showed one with the words "ANTI-ICE" written along the side."While the investigation is ongoing, an initial review of the evidence shows an ideological motive behind this attack," Patel wrote.In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security said the suspect fired "indiscriminately" at the ICE building, including at a van in the building's secured entryway where the victims were shot.The department initially said two victims were dead and one injured, before later issuing a corrected statement that one detainee had been killed and two others were in critical condition.Officials have not disclosed the identities of the victims.The incident comes two weeks after the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk by a sniper during an event in Orem, Utah, which fueled fears of a new wave of political violence in the United States.NBC News and Fox News, both citing sources, identified the gunman as Joshua Jahn, 29. Reuters was not immediately able to confirm their reports.A Reuters reporter interviewed Jahn's older brother, Noah, earlier in the day as Joshua Jahn's name began circulating online in connection with the shooting.Noah, 30, said he was not aware that his brother harbored any negative feelings about ICE."I didn't know he had any political intent at all," said Noah Jahn, who lives in McKinney, Texas, around 30 miles north of Dallas, as did his brother.At the time of the interview, Jahn said he was not sure whether his brother was involved but that he had begun to fear the worst after none of the family could reach him by phone on Wednesday.A Reuters journalist saw FBI agents entering a house in McKinney at the address listed in online records for Joshua Jahn on Wednesday afternoon.Kirk's death set off a firestorm of political recriminations and deepened concerns among critics of President Donald Trump that he will use the killing to justify further cracking down on his opponents.Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other administration officials have blamed, without proof, liberal organizations for fomenting unrest and encouraging violence against the right. On Monday, Trump signed an executive order declaring the anti-fascist movement antifa a domestic "terrorist organization" despite the fact that there has been no evidence made public linking antifa to Kirk's death.At a news briefing in Dallas, officials emphasized the investigation was still in its early stages. Authorities were treating the attack as an "act of targeted violence," Joseph Rothrock, special agent in charge of the FBI's Dallas field office, told reporters.Wednesday's shooter opened fire on the office from atop an adjacent building around 6:40 a.m. local time, police said.Law enforcement officers were not injured in the shooting, officials said. The attack took place at an ICE field office, not a detention facility, where ICE officers conduct short-term processing of recently-arrested detainees.The Trump administration's aggressive use of ICE agents as part of its crackdown on undocumented immigrants has sparked outcries from Democrats and liberal activists. ICE detention facilities have increasingly become sites of conflict, with heavily armed agents deploying pepper ball guns, tear gas and other chemical agents in clashes with protesters.An ICE facility in suburban Chicago, where protesters have gathered daily since a Trump administration immigration surge began earlier this month, erected fencing on Monday after several demonstrators, including the mayor of Evanston, Illinois, were injured in a clash with agents last week.Wednesday's attack was the third shooting this year in Texas at a Department of Homeland Security facility. A police officer was shot in a July incident at an ICE detention center in Prairieland, and a 27-year-old Michigan man was shot dead by agents after opening fire on a US Border Patrol station in McAllen in July.

Gulf Times
Business

Importance of Acoustics & Audio/Video Coordination

Late design and early construction take a big toll on AV design consultation and acoustic requirements, where audio visual is focusing on the impact of the volume and acoustics consultants in emphasize on controlling through acoustic testing and the impact of higher volume. Aligning both teams in an early collaboration leads to efficiency and better user experience. Bringing both disciplines together from the get-go ensures fine designs, optimized performance, and spaces that deliver clarity and comfort.Key Reasons Why Coordination MattersCoordination of Acoustics and AV from the early design phases ensures that systems such as speakers, subwoofers microphones, and projectors work at their best within space with effective noise mitigation strategy. Refer below key points why coordination matters:• The design intended noise levels within the subject space to be clearly communicated by the Acoustic team in order to develop the adequate acoustic design for noise containment within the subject space and the key acoustic elements such as wall/floor/ceiling/ doors acoustic measures are coordinated during the early design stages with the architect team.• Early involvement of consultants helps avoid costly retrofits by addressing noise control measures, layouts, and system evaluations in advance.• Strong communication between AV, Acoustics, Architecture, and engineering teams prevent design conflicts and ensures project remain within the budget.• When AV and acoustics are well aligned, users enjoy clear, reliable sound that enhances entertainment, presentations, and collaboration without issues like echo or feedback.• This integrated approach saves both time and money by reducing delays, avoiding rework, and streamlining installation and long-term support through consistent collaboration among all stakeholders.**media[360728]**Figure below illustrates the importance of coordination between Acoustic and AV in early design phase of the project:**media[360730]**Example/ Illustration:Let’s take an example to reiterate the importance of coordination between Acoustics and AV:We are designing an entertainment space as per the details below.Space TypeNight Club on Level 1 including outdoor seating/ diningIntended Music Levels110-115 dB(A)Adjancies (Above and Below)Hotel Guestrooms aboveHotel Entrance Lobby BelowAdjancies (Left and Right)RetailF&B SpaceLet’s try to understand the criticality of the subject space by using a simplified diagram below.**media[360731,360729]**As you can see the Nightclub is surrounded by the noise sensitive space all around. Therefore, the containment of noise within the space is at utmost importance. If the AV team has coordinated with Acoustic team, than acoustic team can propose the following few noise mitigation solutions for effective noise containment• Base built noise testing: The acoustic consultant undertakes the acoustic testing of base built (in case the subject space is shell and core space), to understand the shell & core sound insulation performance of the subject space.• Wall Sound Insulation Performance: A decoupled resilient wall will be required, for adequate wall sound insulation performance.• Floor Sound Insulation Performance: A resilient floor or floating floor will be required, for adequate sound insulation performance.• Ceiling Sound Insulation Performance: A resilient ceiling will be required, for adequate sound insulation performance.• Acoustic Absorptive finishes: Acoustic absorptive finishes in the form of acoustic ceiling and wall absorptive panel, to maintain adequate sound quality and reverberation control within the space.• Acoustic consultants will also review speaker/ subwoofer technical datasheets and speaker/ subwoofer arrangements within the subject space and advise on improvements.• Acoustic consultants will also advise on adequate zoning for AV design and layouts.Now Imagine: Due to lack of coordination during the early design stages and everyone only figures it out way later, during the final design phase or, worse, during construction, it’s basically the project equivalent of realizing you forgot the main ingredient after the cake’s already in the oven. Total chaos, total nightmare, and absolutely nobody goes home happy.When AV and Acoustics don’t talk, it’s like watching a movie with the sound two seconds late awkward for everyone! Lucky for you, at DSP Consultants we’ve got both teams living under one roof, chatting daily (sometimes louder than the speakers) to make sure every project hits the right note and looks sharp.

Qatar Chamber delegation joining several participating dignitaries during the event.
Business

Qatar Chamber joins Islamic Chamber meeting and Digital Economy Forum in Amman

Qatar Chamber recently participated in the 39th meeting of the board of directors of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) and the ‘Invest in the Digital Economy Forum’, held in Amman, Jordan.The events came as part of the Islamic Chamber’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic integration and advance the Islamic business sector globally.Qatar Chamber’s delegation included board members Dr Mohammed bin Jawhar al-Mohammad, Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Jalil al-Abdul Ghani, and Abdullah bin Mohammed al-Emadi.The meeting discussed mechanisms to foster economic co-operation among Islamic countries, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and support joint development projects.During the meeting, heads and representatives of chambers and unions from 16 Islamic countries, together with leading economic experts and decision-makers, reviewed the progress of the Islamic Chamber’s projects and initiatives, which aim to empower private sector organisations and support Muslim businesses in non-Islamic countries.It also reviewed the action plan prepared by the general secretariat, based on a study submitted by Qatar Chamber at the previous meeting. The study included three comparative analytical reports assessing the organisation’s performance against similar institutional models, alongside a set of proposals outlining the organisation’s future role and potential directions in the coming phase.Speaking at the meeting, al-Mohammad condemned the brutal attack on Qatar by the Zionist entity, emphasising that it occurred at a time when Qatar was actively seeking to promote peace and explore all avenues for a peaceful resolution in Gaza.He added that this attack on Qatar, as well as on other Arab and Islamic countries, calls for a reassessment of strategies and a reformulation of approaches within the framework of the Islamic Chamber, which represents the Islamic economy across 57 countries and advocates on behalf of the economic interests of the Muslim world.Al-Mohammad underscored the ICCD’s pivotal role in enhancing co-ordination among its member chambers and ensuring their active participation in international forums. He also highlighted the importance of encouraging chambers to collaborate, support initiatives launched by individual members, and motivate others to join these efforts.In this context, he pointed to the Jordan Chamber’s initiative in the digital field, emphasising that it should be supported as a successful model. Al-Mohammad also stressed the importance of establishing joint economic entities that serve the private sector and Islamic countries and societies, establishing Islamic banks with contributions from member chambers, and launching insurance companies, educational, health, and technical companies, as well as contracting and construction projects.During the meeting, Abdullah Saleh Kamel was re-elected by acclamation as president of the Islamic Chamber for a new term (2026-2030). The meeting further reviewed an update of the Palestine Initiative, launched by the Islamic Chamber during the 39th General Assembly in Qatar.The initiative aims to support SMEs in Palestine, empower youth to work remotely, and provide job opportunities with various companies and organisations worldwide through digital economy tools. It also seeks to enhance skills across multiple fields through targeted training, thereby contributing to Palestine’s integration into the global market and the development of a strong and resilient national economy despite existing challenges.

Aisha Hussain Alfardan, vice-chairwoman of QBWA, and Areej Bint Mohsin al-Zaabi, chairwoman of the Businesswomen Committee at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, during the signing ceremony.
Business

QBWA signs MoU with Oman chamber’s Businesswomen Committee

The Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, represented by its Businesswomen Committee, during the symposium on ‘Leadership and Management Development’ held in Muscat.The event was held under the patronage of Sayyid Loay bin Ghalib al-Said and aimed to enhance the capacities of women professionals and empower them to lead the future with confidence and competence.This collaboration reflects QBWA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the capabilities of women entrepreneurs and supporting them in transforming challenges into investment and development opportunities through the cultivation of confident, future-oriented female leadership.As part of the symposium, Aisha Hussain Alfardan, vice-chairwoman of QBWA, delivered a keynote presentation titled ‘Personal Empowerment, Internal Transformation, and Self-Leadership’. In her remarks, she emphasised that true strength begins from within, and that self-leadership and internal transformation are essential foundations for any form of sustainable development be it at the individual, societal, or national level.Alfardan shared her personal and professional journey, which led her to firmly believe that authentic empowerment starts with self-belief. She noted that the moment a woman realises her potential is the moment she becomes a catalyst for change and progress.She also underscored that empowering women to make decisions and access equal opportunities in the workplace enhances their capacity to lead transformative change.She expressed her pride in sharing her perspective and experience on self-empowerment and leadership, affirming that these elements are the foundation of sustainable leadership. Her work with QBWA, she noted, is a living example of how self-leadership can drive meaningful social impact.Alfardan also participated in a high-level panel discussion titled ‘Inspiring Leadership in a Rapidly Changing World: Between Empowerment and Crisis Management’. The session explored how inspirational leadership shapes workplace environments, how leadership principles translate under pressure, and how institutional leaders can empower teams and foster a culture of innovation.Joining Alfardan on the panel were Ayman bin Hamad al-Busaidi, vice-chairman of SABCO Group; Dr Aflah bin Said al-Hadhrami, general manager at Petroleum Development Oman; and Swati Mandela, president of the Mandela Institute for Humanity.The discussion examined the role of leadership in balancing empowerment with crisis management, with a focus on nurturing women's leadership capabilities and addressing the unique challenges they face in Arab societies.The symposium featured an interactive dialogue titled ‘Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing World’, where Dr Amer Bin Awad al-Rawas, chairman of the Concordia Group, discussed the challenges facing business leaders amid regional and international shifts, explored the opportunities emerging from current economic transformations, and addressed strategies for balancing challenges and opportunities to enhance business sustainability.The symposium concluded with the official MoU signing between Alfardan and Areej Bint Mohsin al-Zaabi, chairwoman of the Businesswomen Committee at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.The MoU aims to enhance economic, commercial, and investment co-operation between Qatar and Oman and to facilitate investment processes in both directions. It reaffirms both parties’ commitment to exchanging expertise, supporting women’s empowerment efforts, and highlighting the pivotal role women play in driving economic growth and entrepreneurship.Commenting on the occasion, Alfardan stated: “At the Qatari Businesswomen Association, we firmly believe that strategic regional partnerships, such as this agreement with the Businesswomen Committee in the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, lay the foundation for enhancing trade and investment between our countries. Women’s empowerment is not achieved through awareness alone, but through building sustainable ecosystems that translate into tangible opportunities on the ground.”From her side, al-Zaabi said: “Signing this MoU with the Qatari Businesswomen Association represents a significant step toward unifying Gulf efforts to support women entrepreneurs and enhance knowledge and trade exchange between Omani and Qatari women. We believe that joint cooperation is the key to fostering a culture of innovation, competitiveness, and meaningful participation of women in economic development.”The initiative reflects QBWA’s dedication to establishing a comprehensive platform for empowering women and enhancing their social and economic presence. It is part of a broader strategy to expand the association’s local, regional, and international impact by forging partnerships with institutions that share its mission to elevate women’s status across all sectors.