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United Development Company (UDC) is positioning its development philosophy as a cornerstone for engaging in critical discussions at the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum, which will be held on October 14-16 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).UDC president and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah said the company’s role in the forum goes beyond showcasing its developments. “Our priority is to contribute strategic insights and proven practices that demonstrate how real estate can deliver lasting economic and social value,” al-Jaidah told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.He noted that UDC, a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s forum, will share lessons from the company’s experience in sustainable development, smart infrastructure, and integrated community living, demonstrating how these principles are being embedded into new projects that support Qatar’s growth.“Equally important, through high-level discussions and bilateral engagements, we aim to help shape the dialogue into concrete outcomes, whether that is in the form of creating tangible investment opportunities, forging innovative partnerships, or offering practical insights that can help inform future policy directions. In this way, UDC directly supports the forum’s ambition to move from vision to measurable impact,” he emphasised.Asked how does UDC’s vision align with the strategic goals of the forum’s third edition, al-Jaidah explained that the company’s vision “is to be the regional leader in real estate development and management,” which is guided by UDC’s ‘Value Promise and Strategic Choices’ of putting customers and communities first, driving cost competitiveness, pursuing operational excellence, and advancing growth through innovation.He continued: “This aligns closely with the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum, which is focused on reinforcing investor confidence and showcasing the strength and efficiency of Qatar’s real estate system. The forum’s emphasis on transparency, streamlined policies, and the integration of digital platforms mirrors our own commitment to operational excellence and innovation. And its role as a hub for public–private dialogue reflects our belief in trust-based partnerships that create long-term value.“Through developments like The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, we demonstrate how this vision translates into secure investments, vibrant communities, and resilient growth, outcomes that are directly in line with both the forum’s objectives and the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.”Al-Jaidah also underscored how UDC supports the Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030 and the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, saying the company’s developments “are not merely real estate projects.”“They are transformative platforms that bring Qatar National Vision 2030’s pillars to life with economic diversification, social development, environmental sustainability, and human capital advancement. Within the framework of the Third National Development Strategy, we see our role as crafting destinations that attract investment, embody innovation, and elevate quality of life,” al-Jaidah explained.He added: “At The Pearl Island, we have set a global benchmark with the Largest Pneumatic Waste Management Network, while on Gewan Island’s Crystal Walk is one of the region’s largest outdoor air-conditioned retail promenades, an innovation that enhances comfort, elevates community experiences, and adds distinctive value for investors and residents alike. These initiatives reflect our ‘Customer and Community First’ approach, while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a hub for world-class living and investment opportunities.”

The Kerala Business Forum (KBF) has expressed its deepest condolences and heartfelt solidarity with the leadership, government, and people of Qatar, following the tragic incident in Doha on September 9, 2025."We stand firmly with the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and the Government of Qatar during this difficult time. Qatar has consistently upheld its role as a beacon of peace, dialogue, and mediation in the region, and such an attack represents not only a grave loss of innocent lives but also a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and its peace-building mission." KBF general secretary Abdulgafoor Makkatteri, said."On behalf of the KBF and its members, we extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and pray for strength and comfort for them. We also reaffirm our unwavering support to the State of Qatar in its continued efforts to promote peace, stability, and security in the region," he added.

Doha will next month host the seventh Gulf Businesswomen Forum, organised by the Federation of the Gulf Cooperation Council Chambers (FGCCC), in association with the Qatar Chamber and supported by the GCC General Secretariat.The forum, to be held under the theme “Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Investment”, will take place from November 12 to 13, 2025, at the Mandarin Oriental – Msheireb, Doha.It aims to promote entrepreneurship and sustainable investment among female business owners in GCC countries by showcasing mechanisms that support their participation in sustainable investment.The forum also seeks to explore ways of transitioning from traditional models to more innovative, digital-based approaches, in line with the Gulf region’s broader shift towards a knowledge economy.Ibtihaj al-Ahmadani, a board member of Qatar Chamber, said the forum aims to economically empower Gulf women and strengthen their contribution to economic development across the GCC countries.She underscored the chamber’s commitment to organising this important forum, given the vital role businesswomen play in driving the Gulf economy, improving the business environment, and broadening horizons for investment and entrepreneurship—aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the sustainable development strategies of the GCC countries.The forum serves as a valuable platform for Gulf businesswomen to exchange experiences and expertise, explore new opportunities for cooperation and partnership, and address the key challenges and prospects within various economic sectors.It also highlights inspiring success stories of female entrepreneurs and the main obstacles they encounter.Saleh bin Hamad al-Sharqi, secretary-general of the FGCCC, said the forum is being held at a significant time, amid a growing regional focus on empowering women and enhancing their role in leading entrepreneurial and investment ventures across the GCC countries.He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to enhancing the economic role of women, stressing its firm belief that investing in Gulf women is an investment in a sustainable future and a diversified, competitive economy.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh al-Khulaifi participated Tuesday as a speaker in the high-level session titled ‘Sustaining Peace In A Shifting Global Order’, as part of the Bled Strategic Forum held in the Republic of Slovenia.In his speech before the session, HE Dr al-Khulaifi affirmed that Qatar will remain committed to its role as a trusted mediator and will continue investing in promoting a culture of dialogue, mediation, and preventive diplomacy, in a way that enhances opportunities for sustainable peace and fulfils the aspirations of peoples for security and development.He stated that successful mediation requires a set of fundamental principles, including neutrality and building trust, communication and engagement with all parties, humanitarian motivation, patience, and perseverance. He added in this context that no mediation process can achieve its objectives if the conflicting parties do not view it as impartial and free from political agendas.HE Dr al-Khulaifi explained that Qatar has earned its reputation in this field through openness and engagement with various actors, including parties that major powers may avoid communicating with, while maintaining distinguished relations with its partners, the United Nations, and regional and international organisations.He emphasised that starting with humanitarian steps, such as the release of prisoners, the exchange of detainees, medical evacuation, or even opening humanitarian corridors, helps build trust between the conflicting parties and creates a more favourable environment for moving to major political issues related to the conflict.He also pointed out that successful mediation is not achieved overnight; rather, it is a long process that requires cumulative steps to build trust and keep dialogue channels open. In this regard, HE Dr al-Khulaifi outlined a set of essential elements to make agreements more sustainable and effective, including strengthening the provisions of agreements to ensure practical implementation and prevent loopholes that parties may exploit later, establishing precise and enforceable follow-up mechanisms to ensure all parties fulfil their obligations, and incorporating clear provisions for resolving potential future disputes during implementation.Those essential elements also included involving regional actors for their direct interests and ability to positively influence the parties, and linking agreements to humanitarian and development projects that enhance the benefits of peace and deliver tangible outcomes for the lives of people.HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the organisers of the Bled Strategic Forum, noting that the convening of this forum amidst the increasing challenges facing the international system reflects the urgent need to strengthen multilateral dialogue and develop new approaches to resolve conflicts and consolidate security and stability.

The third edition of the annual Qatar Real Estate Forum will see the participation of Saudi Arabia with several government entities involved in the real estate sector, in a step aimed at promoting integration and the exchange of expertise between the two countries.While addressing a press conference on Tuesday, engineer Khalid bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, president of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) said Saudi Arabia will be the guest of honour at the event to realise a strategic partnership with Qatar.Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the forum will be held on October 14-16 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) in conjunction with the Cityscape Qatar.Organised by Aqarat the event will address pivotal issues to foster the sector's growth. The first topic focuses on the Government’s Role in the sector highlighting legislation and policies that ensure a safe and stimulating investment environment.The second topic will be dedicated to Real Estate Technology (PropTech) showcasing the latest digital solutions aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency. The third topic will address the Investor's Journey offering key guidance to enable investors to maximise available opportunities and streamline procedures. In its fourth topic, the forum will showcase Major and Promising Projects that open new horizons for development and progress in Qatar.Aqarat president noted that this edition builds on the success of previous ones and embodies the ongoing efforts to solidify Qatar's position as a leading real estate and investment destination.The forum serves as an annual platform for investors, experts and real estate developers to explore promising opportunities in the Qatari real estate market, enhance confidence in the sector and foster collaboration among various stakeholders thereby supporting the development path aligned with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.Al-Obaidli explained that Aqarat has developed a comprehensive and integrated media plan for this edition in addition to launching the forum's official website.The press conference also featured the signing of official sponsorship agreements. Qatar Investment Authority is the official sponsor. Qatari Diar, Barwa Real Estate Company, United Development Company and Qetaifan Projects are platinum sponsors. Gold sponsors are Al Waab City and GMG Holding. Lesha Bank is media sponsor. Qatar Living and Ain Riyadh are media partners.

A delegation from Qatar Chamber participated in the First Arab Forum on Artificial Intelligence, held in New Alamein City in Egypt, headed by its Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohamed al-Thani.In his speech at the forum’s second panel discussion, entitled "The Role of the Arab Private Sector and Arab Businessmen in Activating and Implementing the Arab Artificial Intelligence Initiative,” Sheikh Khalifa emphasised that the Arab AI Initiative, endorsed at the Arab Development Summit in Baghdad in May 2025, represents a cornerstone for unifying Arab efforts to ensure the optimal utilisation of modern technologies in serving Arab societies, supporting their economies, and enhancing their global competitiveness.He also noted that Arab countries have made significant strides in the AI sector, underscoring the need for active participation from the Arab private sector in implementing this ambitious initiative.He emphasised that Arab businessmen play a pivotal role in the initiative’s success by supporting innovative startups and strengthening partnerships with academic institutions and research centres.He underlined that the private sector plays a key role in accelerating digital transformation and creating a business environment capable of embracing these technologies.Sheikh Khalifa also highlighted Qatar’s strong commitment to innovation and technology through the launch of multiple strategies and initiatives that support digital transformation, develop technological infrastructure, and build qualified human capacities.He stressed the importance of enacting flexible legislation and providing investment incentives to boost the flow of joint Arab investment in technology and AI. He affirmed the readiness of Qatar Chamber and the Qatari private sector to actively contribute to supporting and implementing the Arab AI Initiative in a way that achieves sustainable development for Arab nations and enhances their presence in the global knowledge and innovation-based economy.The forum, organised by the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport in co-operation with the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, served as a leading Arab platform for exchanging experiences and formulating future visions to support cybersecurity, the digital economy, and technological innovation, thereby strengthening the Arab region’s position on the global AI map.The forum featured eight panel sessions addressing several themes, including: the role of Arab organisations and institutions, the role of the private sector and Arab businessmen, the role of Arab financial institutions, AI governance, ethical frameworks and international co-operation, cybersecurity infrastructure and digital sovereignty, economic development, and innovation, as well as human capacity building and preserving cultural identity.

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) held its annual educational forum for the academic year 2025-2026 at the Qatar National Convention Center on Tuesday. Held under the patronage and attendance of HE the Minister of Education and Higher Education Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed al-Khater, the forum was attended by school principals, teachers, students, parents, community partners, media representatives, and senior ministry officials. The forum aims to enhance communication with school leaders, teachers, and students, and to review the ministry's strategic directions for the new academic year as part of the "Back to School 2025" event. HE MoEHE Undersecretary Dr Ibrahim bin Saleh al-Nuaimi emphasised in his speech that the "Back to School" initiative represents a welcoming celebration and an inspiring educational start. He said the event aims to prepare all stakeholders in the educational system for the new academic year, strengthen the partnership between the ministry and the community, introduce the ministry’s strategic projects and motivate students and teachers for a positive and energetic beginning. Dr al-Nuaimi also highlighted the importance of the occasion in building a supportive and integrated educational environment between home and school, in line with the goals of education in Qatar. He welcomed the new students, teachers, and administrative staff, wishing them a successful start and a fruitful academic journey. He praised the achievements made during the past period, including the expansion of early childhood education and inclusive schools, the launch of educational vouchers for students with disabilities, the adoption of inclusive education and early intervention initiatives, and curriculum development. He also noted the expansion of scholarship opportunities to prestigious universities both within the country and abroad, in line with the needs of the labour market and Qatar National Vision 2030. He pointed out that the ministry adopts a balanced and integrated approach that responds to the requirements of economic diversification and the shift toward a knowledge-based economy. He emphasised that the teacher is at the heart of educational development and that the impact is directly reflected in students. This is achieved through high-quality training programmes and increased opportunities to hire Qatari teachers through initiatives such as "Tomooh," "Tamkeen," and "Tamheen." He added that the ultimate goal of the new academic year is to provide quality education to students and prepare them to compete regionally and globally, highlighting the opening of new schools that offer education based on international standards while preserving national identity and core values. He also stressed that students' quality of life is a strategic priority for the ministry, by providing an engaging and integrated educational environment that enhances attendance, participation, and academic performance, and supports their personal development. The minister honoured 28 male and female teachers from the sixth cohort of the "Tamheen" programme, which is implemented by the ministry in cooperation with the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau. The programme aims to attract and qualify national talents to join the teaching profession, contributing to enriching the educational environment with qualified Qatari personnel. The event also included recognition of the partners who contributed to the success of the Back to School 2025 activities. These included: Ooredoo, Mowasalat (Karwa), KidZania, Al Rawnaq Bookstore, and Alif Bookstore - in appreciation of their support for the event. The event concluded with a tour by HE the Minister of Education and Higher Education of the educational projects exhibition, showcasing work by teachers participating in the "Tamheen," promising start, and innovation leaders programmes. She listened to their presentations and the outcomes of their projects, which aim to improve academic performance, boost student motivation, and increase parental involvement in the educational process.

Market EyeQatar remains among the top three LNG exporters globally in the latest data released by Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).Last month, global LNG exports surged by 12% y-o-y (3.83mn tonnes) to reach 36.55mn tonnes, a "record high" for the month and the "strongest" annual growth rate since July 2019.The increase was driven by higher exports from both GECF Member Countries and non-GECF countries, which more than offset a decline in LNG re-exports.Between January and July 2025, global LNG exports rose by 5.0% y-o-y (11.93mn tonnes) to reach 249.66mn tonnes, largely supported by gains from non-GECF exporters, and to a lesser extent by GECF Member Countries and LNG re-exports.Non-GECF countries remained the largest exporters in July, with their market share rising to 55.2%, up from 53.1% a year earlier.In contrast, the shares of GECF Member Countries and LNG re-exports declined from 45.5% and 1.4% to 44.3% and 0.5%, respectively.In July, LNG exports from GECF member and observer countries rose by 8.7% y-o-y (1.30mn tonnes) to reach 16.20mn tonnes. At the country level, Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Peru, Qatar, Senegal, and Trinidad and Tobago contributed to the increase, offsetting a decline in exports from the United Arab Emirates.From January to July, GECF LNG exports grew by 1.8% year-on-year (1.99mn tonnes) to 113.59mn tonnes. The additional volumes were mainly driven by Angola, Mauritania, Nigeria, Qatar, Senegal and Trinidad and Tobago.In Algeria and Malaysia, reduced maintenance activities at the Arzew and Bintulu LNG facilities, respectively, supported the rise in exports.Additionally, higher feedgas availability boosted LNG exports from Equatorial Guinea, Malaysia, Nigeria, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. The ramp-up of production from the GTA FLNG 1 facility in Mauritania/Senegal continued to support growing export volumes from both countries.Qatar’s LNG export growth was supported by production exceeding the nameplate capacity at the Ras Laffan liquefaction complex, GECF data show.Conversely, the decline in LNG exports from the United Arab Emirates was attributed to planned maintenance at the Das Island LNG facility.In July, non-GECF countries’ LNG exports surged by 16% y-o-y (2.82mn tonnes) to reach 20.18mn tonnes, which is the second highest monthly LNG exports after March 2025.The stronger LNG exports was driven by Australia, Canada, Mexico, and the US, which together offset weaker LNG exports from Norway.Between January and July 2025, non-GECF LNG exports grew by 7.9% (9.80mn tonnes) y-o-y to 134.03mn tonnes, supported by stronger LNG exports from Canada, Mexico and the US.Stronger LNG output from Gorgon and Ichthys—due to reduced maintenance—boosted Australia’s LNG exports, offsetting lower flows from North West Shelf caused by limited feedgas.In Canada and Mexico, rising exports were driven by ramp-ups at LNG Canada and Altamira FLNG 1, respectively.The US saw the largest non-GECF increase, led by surging volumes from Corpus Christi, Freeport, and Plaquemines. Corpus Christi and Plaquemines benefited from new train ramp-ups, while Freeport’s gains stemmed from reduced maintenance and debottlenecking that expanded production capacity.