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imec, a global leader in nano-electronics and digital innovation, Tuesday unveiled its plans to launch a regional research and development (R&D) hub in Qatar in early 2026.Supported by Invest Qatar, the country’s investment promotion agency, and the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council (QRDI), the centre will leverage Qatar’s state-of-the-art infrastructure to drive innovation and technology-led growth, while serving as a regional hub to expand imec’s footprint across the Gulf.On the sidelines of Mobile World Congress in Doha, imec signed an agreement with Invest Qatar and QRDI to establish a dedicated R&D hub in Qatar, supported by the government of Qatar.The signing was witnessed by His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal al-Thani, the Minister of Commerce and Industry; His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali al-Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Dr Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa, Secretary-General of the National Planning Council.Located in Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), imec’s R&D facility will focus on accelerating the digital transformation and bringing IC-Link by imec’s chip design expertise to Qatar and the broader Middle East.The regional hub will support the creation of essential design tools – known as process design kits (PDKs) – for emerging technologies like silicon photonics, 3D integrated circuits, and silicon interposers. Additionally, it will explore innovative design workflows and the use of generative and agent-based AI (artificial intelligence) in the development of custom chips (ASICs).Furthermore, imec will focus on developing advanced AI solutions to optimise infrastructure, and deep-tech innovations targeting applications for a sustainable society.imec will also nurture semiconductor talent through development programmes, internships, and PhD initiatives in collaboration with universities, companies, and startups, across various industries. These efforts, which build on imec’s proven model of open innovation, contribute to establishing a robust semiconductor talent pipeline in the region.imec’s Qatar hub will start hiring immediately and aims to reach 100 employees by 2030. Roles will include site management, R&D, research engineering and support positions.“After growing our footprint across Europe, the USA and Asia, we are proud to add another chapter to our internationalisation strategy with the launch of our Qatar hub. With this regional hub, we aim to contribute to the region’s growing momentum in semiconductor innovation and its broader shift toward a diversified, sustainable economy,” said Luc Van den hove, imec’s president and chief executive officer.As the region invests in advanced compute and energy technologies, and advanced chip design, he said it is committed to supporting this transformation through deep tech expertise, regional talent development, and partnerships built on mutual respect and global collaboration.Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, chief executive officer of Invest Qatar, said this partnership with imec is a testament to the strength of Qatar’s investment ecosystem and world-class infrastructure in attracting global industry leaders.“We look forward to supporting imec in deepening its footprint in Qatar and expanding in the region, while jointly accelerating our national innovation agenda and creating new opportunities for talent development and high-tech investment,” he added.Partnering with imec marks an important milestone in positioning Qatar as a hub for R&D-driven innovation and a trusted node in the global technology ecosystem, according to Omar Ali al-Ansari, Secretary-General, QRDI Council.

Msheireb Properties' flagship development, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), has won the Inc. Arabia Best in Business Award 2025 in the Smart Cities and Urban Innovation category, a statement said.Recognising visionary businesses that redefine industries through innovation, impact, and leadership, the award was presented at a gala in Dubai, where Msheireb Properties' chief operating officer engineer Faisal al-Malki received the honour.He described that the award emphasises the company’s efforts for promoting sustainable urban regeneration and development rooted in cultural heritage and MDD shows what can be achieved when innovation is guided by heritage and community."This award recognises our steadfast approach to advancing global benchmarks in urban development, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. It echoes our belief that the cities of the future must be built on a foundation of environmental stewardship, technological integration, and the preservation of cultural identity. We remain inspired to continue shaping urban spaces that enrich lives and honour tradition,” he added.MDD has been previously recognised for its excellence in sustainability, design, and innovation at the Real Estate Asia Awards, Global Economic Awards, Green Apple Awards, Smart Built Environment Awards, and Luxury Lifestyle Awards, among others.**media[386598]**This consistent recognition stems from a foundational philosophy that moves beyond conventional development.MDD is a fully integrated, walkable city district that perfectly blends Qatari heritage with cutting-edge technology and sustainable design. It stands as the first sustainable downtown regeneration project of its kind in the world.Innovation remains at the heart of Msheireb Properties’ work. Msheireb Museums exemplifies this approach, transforming heritage houses into interactive spaces where history is experienced through digital platforms, immersive storytelling, and oral history archives. Each house offers a unique narrative, from civic dialogue at Bin Jelmood House to sustainable urban principles at Mohammed Bin Jassim House, engaging students, families, and international visitors alike.Beyond cultural preservation, MDD functions as a prototype for smart, sustainable urban living. The district integrates advanced mobility solutions, district cooling systems, energy-efficient buildings, and smart infrastructure, earning the recognition as the first large-scale sustainable downtown regeneration in Qatar. Complementary initiatives such as the “Liquid3” project with Qatar Academy Msheireb and the Green Roofs “Fifth Elevation” programme exhibits the company’s pursuit of combining technology, sustainability, and community engagement. 

Ooredoo has announced the extension of its AI-powered digital assistant, Obot, to retail customers, reinforcing its position as a leader in AI-driven innovation and customer experience.Initially launched for app and website users, Obot is now available across multiple social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and WhatsApp, ensuring seamless support wherever customers connect.Obot now offers a more comprehensive set of services for retail customers, including instant responses and proactive assistance. The integration of real-time voice and avatar technology ensures conversations feel intuitive and engaging, while omnichannel support guarantees continuity across digital platforms.Ooredoo Qatar CEO Sheikh Ali bin Jabor bin Mohammad al-Thani said, “The extension of Obot to retail customers and its availability across multiple channels marks a new era in customer engagement.“By combining GPT-powered intelligence with Azure AI and real-time voice capabilities, we are delivering an experience that is smarter, faster, and more human. This innovation reinforces our commitment to supporting Qatar’s digital transformation and setting new benchmarks for service excellence.” 

The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global education and development organisation, continued its participation at the 12th edition of the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12) with three sessions on digital dignity, higher education access for displaced youth, and the future of green entrepreneurship. Through these sessions, EAA Foundation reinforced its commitment to ensuring equitable, innovative, and human-centred learning environments that empower young people and strengthen community resilience.**media[385930]**The day opened with the session “From Data to Dignity: Technology and the Right to Education,” jointly led by the Educate A Child (EAC) and Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) programmes, alongside the Innovation Development. The discussion explored how digital technologies, AI-driven tools, and ethical data systems can protect learners’ rights, monitor attacks on education, and expand access to inclusive and secure learning environments. The session highlighted EAA’s growing partnerships with UNICEF and UNDP, aimed at advancing data-driven approaches that uphold dignity, privacy, and equity in education.**media[385927]**The session featured Frank Van Cappelle, Head of the UNICEF Global Learning Innovation Hub, Biplove Choudhary, UNDP Technical Representative and Head of Office in Doha, and Christina Wille, Founder and Director of Insecurity Insight, and originator of the Aid in Danger Project and SiND Database. The discussion was moderated by Noor Muhammad, EAC Monitoring & Evaluation Director.**media[385929]**EAA Foundation Strategy, Policy, and Research Directorate and Al Fakhoora Programme jointly led “From Camps to Campuses: Policy, Partnerships and Pathways for Higher Education Access,” a session that examined global models enabling displaced and refugee youth, especially women, to access higher education and transition from crisis to university learning. Drawing on insights from IIE, NAFSA, IAFOR, and EAA’s Public Policy Observatory, the discussion underscored the role of higher education in restoring dignity, expanding opportunity, and building long-term resilience for communities affected by forced migration.**media[385932]**The panel included Prof. Joseph Haldane, Chairman and CEO of the International Academic Forum (IAFOR), Dr. Fanta Aw, Executive Director and CEO of NAFSA, Association of International Educators, Jonah Kokodyniak, Executive Vice President for Program Development and Partner Services at the Institute of International Education (IIE), and Dr. Jaana Nogueira, Research Coordinator at FGV. The session was moderated by Dr. Savo Heleta, a contributor to the EAA Public Policy Observatory.**media[385928]**The final EAA Foundation session of Day Two, “Future Ready: AI, Education and Green Entrepreneurship for Youth,” led by the Silatech Programme, examined how digital transformation and climate-oriented innovation are reshaping the future of work. The discussion explored how AI can drive youth economic empowerment while enabling climate-responsive solutions and opening new pathways for green entrepreneurship. The session highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in rapidly evolving labour markets.**media[385931]**The session featured Mr. Mana Al-Ansari, Chief Economic Empowerment Officer at the Education Above All Foundation, Arnauld Ventura, Managing Partner at Gojo Inc., Francesco d’Ovidio, ILO Country Director for Qatar, Dr. Nadi Albino, Deputy Director of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited and Noora Abdulrahman Al Thani, EAA Youth Advocate. The discussion was moderated by Patience Rusare, Senior Media Specialist for Communications and Engagement at EAA Foundation.Mr. Mana Al-Ansari, Chief Economic Empowerment Officer at the Education Above All Foundation, said: "Our sessions highlight the essence of our mission at Education Above All Foundation: ensuring that technology, higher education, and economic opportunity work together to protect the right to learn and to empower young people. Through sessions such as From Data to Dignity, From Camps to Campuses, and Future Ready, we are showcasing real solutions that help vulnerable learners access safe digital environments, transition into universities, and move from learning to earning. These discussions reflect our belief that human values must guide innovation, and that education remains the most powerful tool to build resilient, inclusive, and future-ready societies."Through its Day Two sessions at WISE 12, the Education Above All Foundation strengthened its global mission to champion inclusive, human-centred, and innovative education. By advancing digital rights, expanding higher-education pathways, and promoting climate-resilient entrepreneurship, EAA Foundation continues to empower youth, especially those most marginalised, to access opportunities, build resilience, and shape a future of possibility.For more information about EAA Foundation, visit www.educationaboveall.orgFor media inquiries, please contact:Mohamed Al-AmriSenior Media Relations [email protected]+974-5000-9960Patience RusareSenior Media [email protected]+974-5993-1560

QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, has been honoured with the ‘Innovation Award’ at the Red Hat Summit 2025, in recognition of the bank’s leadership in digital transformation, hybrid-cloud adoption, and its strategic advancements in AI-driven financial services. The award was accepted by Information Technology experts from QNB, reflecting the bank’s commitment to modernising its technology landscape and pioneering new solutions that enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and information security.During the panel discussion, QNB showcased its forward-looking roadmap in digital transformation and governance of artificial intelligence, as well as its role in fostering innovation across the financial sector. Red Hat Summit Connect, being its first time in Qatar, brings together technology leaders, decision-makers, and open-source experts to explore the next frontier of IT innovation. The event serves as a platform for accelerating digital transformation through collaboration, education, and real-world application.  QNB’s participation in the event, which is considered one of Red Hat leading strategic showcases, strengthened with the award reinforces its significant contribution and its continuous efforts to strengthen its digital capabilities, support Qatar’s innovation ecosystem, and set new benchmarks for sustainable and secure technology adoption. 

The theme for WISE 12 is Human Values at the Heart of Education, and the title is ‘Humanity.IO’ The 12th edition of the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE 12), a global education initiative of Qatar Foundation (QF), will take place from Monday with with over 4,000 participants from around the globe at Qatar National Convention Centre. "The two-day summit gathers over a large number of speakers and delegates and more than 4,000 participants.We had to close the registration because we exceeded the 6,000 registrations. So actually, we are fully packed and we expect over 4,000 participants to take part in the summit over the two days of conference,” said Shahïn Ammane, Director, Advocacy and Community Development, WISE.Ammane was speaking to Gulf Times at a special Media Day event organised by WISE to highlight the activities of WISE 12. Officials from WISE, QF and Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, finalists of the WISE Prize for Education as well as the jury members of the WISE Prize for Education were present on the occasion.The official said that the theme for WISE 12 is Human Values at the Heart of Education, and the title is ‘Humanity.IO’. “ In every technology evolution, we have always to think about the human first. What is the place of the human in this evolution as well as what is the place of the human in AI area? We think mainly about what is the future of AI, but we don't think about the future of the human within AI. So it is going to be one of the main themes to be discussed during WISE 12,” he explained.Ammane noted that the summit will examine how bold system-level change, anchored in human values, can ensure education remains adaptable, accessible, and relevant. As for the participants in the summit, Ammane said that the highest number of attendees are from Qatar. “It highlights their interest in what is happening in education in Qatar .Some of the discussions that are going to take place during the summit will actually shape the future of education in Qatar and the world,” he continued. Meanwhile, Mana Mohammed al-Ansari, chief economic empowerment officer at the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, said that EAA is participating in the summit as it is a hugely important global event. “At WISE, ideas, innovation and action all come together to reshape the future of learning. At EAA, our mission is to remove the barriers that prevent children and youth from accessibility,” said al-Ansari. Al-Ansari noted that EAA has six programmes and all of them align with education, environment sustainability and economic empowerment of the youth and the marginlised communities.He stated: “EAA will hold seven sessions during WISE 12 which are highly relevant in the current scenario. Through these sessions, the EAA Foundation will highlight cutting-edge solutions that expand access to education, empower youth, and drive inclusive social and economic development.” “Through its participation at WISE 12, EAA Foundation reaffirms its global mission to ensure equitable, innovative, and human-centred education for all, championing solutions that bridge learning with opportunity, safeguard children's and youth's rights, and build sustainable future for vulnerable and marginalised communities around the world,” he added. According to Dr Hend Zainal, executive director, Strategy Management and Partnerships at the Higher Education Division, Qatar Foundation, WISE 12 is a great platform to interact with higher education as well as K-12 education experts from all over the world. “We are going to hear from these experts and discuss the future of higher education and some of the issues that we are all facing right now.QF Higher education also will sign four MoUs at the summit. It also includes a cultural exchange programme with students from George Mason University who will be visiting Qatar next year.” “We, at QF want our students to not only be part of the future, but be part of actually what the future is going to look like.So, it is really important to bring students with such professionals who are participating in the summit. We are holding a few sessions at the summit that are led by higher education experts, people from QF higher education, as well as our partner universities,” added the official.

Qatari innovation firm Ibtechar has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Qatar’s innovation ecosystem and empowering individuals and institutions to translate ideas into tangible, sustainable outcomes during its participation in Rowad 2025, which concluded Wednesday.Its commitment was reflected in the company’s thought-leadership panel, engaging youth workshops, and interactive booth, stated Ibtechar co-founder and CEO Nayef al-Ibrahim. He said: “Our participation at Rowad emphasises our commitment to building Qatar’s innovation capacity and ability to deliver practical, tailored solutions.Rowad is a key platform for meaningful collaboration, knowledge exchange, and we’re proud to contribute to its impact.” He added: “Through our panel discussion, youth workshops, and interactive booth, we engaged directly with students, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.Our diverse presence helps us understand real challenges on the ground, share targeted expertise, and support organisations in turning innovative ideas into impactful solutions, contributing directly to Qatar’s sustainable growth.” The panel discussion on ‘Education, Culture, and Innovation in Global Entrepreneurship’ featured al-Ibrahim, alongside speakers from renowned local and regional organisations, including Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), Edraak from the Queen Rania Foundation, and ElGooru, a leading regional edtech startup.The discussion highlighted education, culture, and innovation as core pillars of global entrepreneurship, shaping globally minded founders and fostering resilient, sustainable ecosystems across the Arab world. As part of its youth-focused initiatives, Ibtechar conducted two interactive workshops aimed at nurturing artificial intelligence (AI) literacy, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking among middle school, high school, and university students.The first workshop, titled ‘From Problem to Prototype: Introduction to Design Thinking’, gathered over 80 high school and university students, introducing them to the core principles of design thinking through a fast-paced, interactive challenge.The second workshop on ‘Smart Startups/AI-Augmented Entrepreneur: Using AI to Launch and Run Your Business’ was conducted by AI Crafters, Ibtechar’s strategic partner, a company dedicated to the advancement, adoption and use of artificial intelligence in professional environments.Throughout Rowad 2025, Ibtechar’s booth served as a dynamic hub for exchange and innovation, attracting visitors from various sectors and industries. Visitors explored the company’s diverse portfolio of programmes that bridge strategy and implementation and demonstrate how Ibtechar empowers institutions with tailored, agile capacity to deliver impactful progress and create lasting national value.

University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) celebrated its outstanding students in a prestigious annual academic awards ceremony, honouring 50 students across eight majors.These majors included Academic Excellence Awards, Academic Merit, Academic Distinction, Foundation Program, Industrial Trades Dean Award, Achievement Award, Applied Research Award, and Innovation Award.UDST President Dr Salem bin Nasser al-Naemi affirmed that the celebration embodies the boundless potential that education can achieve and reflects UDST's shared belief that excellence is a way of life.Every award UDST presents today tells a story of determination, passion, and purpose-values that define its community. Its role as academics is to nurture these capabilities and guide students to become innovators and change‑makers, contributing to the nation's renaissance and progress on the global stage, Dr al-Naemi underlined.Noteworthy, all recipients of the Academic Excellence and Academic Merit awards received financial rewards, alongside an official certificate from UDST recognising this exceptional achievement in their academic records.Dr al-Naemi further indicated that the annual awards ceremony underlines UDST's commitment to fostering an environment that spurs academic excellence and innovation, making this yearly event a powerful source of inspiration and recognition for the extraordinary accomplishments in the community.He emphasized that the purpose of this annual celebration is to help build an academic, research-driven, and home-like environment that consistently supports students, promoting their excellence and distinction.Academic excellence is not the only criterion for recognition, there are other urgent and impactful standards based on evaluations and engagement in events at the college, university, and national level-standards that bolster UDST's educational ecosystem and prepare students holistically in both academic and research dimensions, he outlined.Dr al-Naemi highlighted that the honoured students have not only excelled at UDST or in Qatar but have also won prestigious international awards in academic and research arenas.He elucidated some of UDST's scientific programs in academics, health, and innovation, stressing that true innovation only arises through research, and that is how students are being trained to maintain the required balance in their lives and sustain their ongoing excellence.Through the UDST-championed innovation and research, students have founded seven commercial companies, aligning with the nation's developmental plans and its National Vision 2030, Dr al-Naemi elaborated.Dr al-Naemi further noted that earlier, UDST launched its innovative business incubator, "UHUB", to support the university community on its journey to transform exceptional ideas into tangible projects.

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

Qatar Museums (QM) and the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) announced the launch of the NMoQ Metaverse Pilot Project, marking a major step in digital cultural innovation.This initiative, developed in collaboration with Cisco, and in turn, with Web3 implementation partner droppGroup, presents a live and intelligent museum experience that integrates immersive 3D environments, augmented and extended reality, and artificial intelligence.The project aims to place Qatar at the forefront of integrating metaverse and AI technologies to enhance museum engagement, while exploring new technologies intended to promote access to culture.By embracing innovation, QM demonstrates its role as a pioneer in cultural transformation and experimentation while supporting the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.The platform also introduces new opportunities for accessibility and remote learning, allowing students, researchers, and educators to engage with Qatar’s cultural heritage in new ways.In a press statement, NMoQ director Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Thani said: “With the NMoQ Metaverse Pilot Project, we are extending this mission into the digital realm, allowing audiences everywhere to walk through our galleries, engage with our collections, and encounter Qatar’s history in immersive and interactive new ways.“This initiative ensures that NMoQ continues to be not only a guardian of heritage, but also a frontrunner in shaping how museums engage with the world.”QM noted that this project is part of Cisco's Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) programme in Qatar. Active in Qatar since 2019, CDA is Cisco’s strategic programme designed to accelerate the nation's digitalisation agenda and generate new value for its citizens, businesses, and the country as a whole.Through public and private partnerships, the programme focuses on leveraging innovative digital solutions to address national challenges across key sectors such as national infrastructure, education, and smart communities.Through the pilot, visitors can explore digital twins of three galleries: The Archaeology of Qatar, The People of Qatar, and Life in Al Barr (The Desert). Twenty-two curated objects are presented with interactive augmented reality features, detailed descriptions, and direct links to the museum’s online collection.The experience is enhanced by Murjana, NMoQ’s customised digital mascot, who provides bilingual narration in Arabic and English with intelligent, personalised guidance. Accessible on mobile devices, desktops, tablets, and VR headsets, the platform also introduces new opportunities for remote learning, allowing students and educators to engage with Qatar’s cultural heritage in new ways.“QM has consistently demonstrated strategic vision in leveraging technology to advance cultural preservation and global engagement, in alignment with Qatar's national digital ambitions. This initiative is a direct testament to that forward-thinking approach,” said Cisco Qatar general manager Hasan Khan.

The Qatar Chamber hosted the ‘High-Level Arab Event on Persons with Disabilities, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation’, which concluded Saturday in Doha.The event featured the ‘Third Session of the Living Independently Initiative for Persons with Disabilities’ and the ‘Arab Exhibition for Productive Families’ held on the sidelines of the recently held ‘Second World Summit for Social Development’.The event was held by the Union of Arab Chambers and the General Secretariat of the Arab League – Social Affairs Sector (Department of Social Development and Policies, Technical Secretariat of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs), in coordination with the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) – Bahrain Office, and in collaboration with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and the Arab Labour Organisation.The event was attended by Qatar Chamber first vice chairman Mohammed bin Towar al-Kuwari; Dr Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity and Chairperson of the Executive Bureau of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs; Mohammed bin Saleh al-Alawi, Minister of Social Development of Bahrain and chair of the 44th Session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs; Dr Khaled Hanafy, secretary general of the Union of Arab Chambers; Ambassador Hossam Zaki, assistant secretary general and head of the Office of the secretary general of the League of Arab States;Wafaa Bani Mustafa, Minister of Social Development of Jordan; Mohammed Hassan al-Obaidli, director general of the Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs in the Gulf States; and Minister Plenipotentiary Tarek al-Nabulsi, director of the Department of Development and Social Policies at the League of Arab States.Attendees toured the exhibition, which showcased a variety of products made by people with disabilities, including accessories, handicrafts, silverware, wickerwork, traditional clothing, ceramics, and other handmade goods. The exhibition featured the participation of 25 exhibitors representing Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Sudan, Palestine, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Iraq.Speaking at the opening of the third session of the Living Independently Initiative, al-Kuwari emphasised that the initiative presents a valuable opportunity to enhance the integration of persons with disabilities into the labour market and to highlight the importance of supporting productive families while contributing to the growth, development, and sustainability of their enterprises.He added that Qatar pays great attention to persons with disabilities and seeks to enhance their effective participation in various areas of social, economic, and educational life, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. He emphasised that Qatar has adopted an integrated system of national legislation and policies that guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities, support their integration into society, and enable them to work and contribute to development.Al-Kuwari also underscored Qatar Chamber’s commitment to empowering productive families, promoting small entrepreneurship, and supporting initiatives that enhance the productive capabilities of families and home-based businesses. He noted that the Chamber strives to provide platforms that allow these families to showcase and market their products both locally and internationally.He further emphasised the chamber’s encouragement of integrating persons with disabilities into suitable jobs within the private sector, noting that this aligns with the efforts of other national entities working to promote inclusion and equal opportunity in the country.

The Qatar Chamber hosted "The high-level Arab Event on Persons with Disabilities, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation," from Nov. 6 to 8, 2025.The event featured the "Third Session of the Living Independently Initiative for Persons with Disabilities" and the "Arab Exhibition for Productive Families" held on the sidelines of the "Second World Summit for Social Development."The event was held by the Union of Arab Chambers and the General Secretariat of the Arab League - Social Affairs Sector (Department of Social Development and Policies, Technical Secretariat of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs), in coordination with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and in collaboration with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and the Arab Labour Organisation.Speaking at the opening of the third session of the Living Independently Initiative, First Vice Chairman of the Qatar Chamber, Mohammed bin Twar Al Kuwari, stressed that the initiative represents a valuable opportunity to enhance the integration of persons with disabilities into the labour market, and to highlight the importance of supporting productive families while contributing to the growth, development, and sustainability of their enterprises.He added that Qatar pays great attention to persons with disabilities and seeks to enhance their effective participation in various areas of social, economic, and educational life, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. He emphasized that Qatar has adopted an integrated system of national legislation and policies that guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities, support their integration into society, and enable them to work and contribute to development.Al Kuwari also underscored the Qatar Chamber's commitment to empowering productive families, promoting small entrepreneurship, and supporting initiatives that enhance the productive capabilities of families and home-based businesses. He noted that the Chamber strives to provide platforms that allow these families to showcase and market their products both locally and internationally.He further emphasised the Chamber's encouragement of integrating persons with disabilities into suitable jobs within the private sector, noting that this aligns with the efforts of other national entities working to promote inclusion and equal opportunity in the country.Attendees toured the exhibition, which showcased various products made by people with disabilities, including accessories, handicrafts, silverware, wickerwork, traditional clothing, ceramics, and other handmade goods. The exhibition featured the participation of 25 exhibitors from several Arab countries.