tag

Saturday, December 06, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "MENA" (8 articles)

Gulf Times
Business

DAS Intellitech to open first MENA headquarters in Qatar

The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) today announced a new partnership with DAS Intellitech, a global leader in smart solutions, to support the establishment of its first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) headquarters in Doha, marking a key milestone in DAS Intellitech's global expansion.The new headquarters will function as a central hub for the company's operations and serve as a base for research and development of advanced solutions tailored to the market. It will also foster collaboration with local SMEs, academic institutions and research centres to drive innovation, digitalisation and sustainable growth in Qatar.Announced during the inaugural edition of MWC Doha, the partnership was commemorated through a signing ceremony by Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar and Claire Liu, Head of Global Business, DAS Intellitech.Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, said: "We are pleased to welcome DAS Intellitech to Qatar, whose presence will strengthen the country's thriving knowledge economy and bolster its position as a centre for technological innovation in the MENA region. Their entry underscores how Qatar's strategic location, digital infrastructure and business-friendly ecosystem make it an ideal gateway for companies looking to enter the thriving MENA market. We are committed to continue attracting investment within the digital technology sector, in line with the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3)."DAS Intellitech Founder and Chairman, Liu Bang, said: "Our Qatar office will operate as a strategic base to serve the broader Middle East region, an important milestone in our global growth strategy. The country's dynamic economy, world-class infrastructure and forward-looking investment policies present the perfect environment for innovation and expansion. Qatar's commitment to fostering technological advancement and sustainable development aligns seamlessly with our vision, making it the ideal location for us to drive smart solutions tailored to the region's needs. Whenever I meet with my friends, I always recommend that they visit the Middle East, especially Qatar, home to some of the most stunning modern cities and landscapes."Recently, Invest Qatar visited the DAS Intellitech's headquarters to explore its cutting-edge technologies and gained deeper insights into its comprehensive capabilities. During discussions, Invest Qatar and DAS Intellitech identified strategic opportunities for collaboration and reaffirmed their shared commitment to supporting Qatar National Vision 2030.DAS Intellitech has already established itself as a strategic partner in Qatar's development, with a proven track record of delivering critical projects for key entities such as the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the Supreme Judiciary Council, and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, all of which directly support the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.These initiatives highlight the company's long-standing alignment with the country's priorities in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification.DAS Intellitech offers a comprehensive suite of advanced capabilities, including DAS' centralised AIoT Platform, energy-saving expertise especially applied in district cooling stations, the ability to build supercomputing centers at an accelerated pace, and a proven track record in delivering smart IoT systems for high-rise towers, hospitals, and subways. These integrated solutions significantly enhance operational efficiency, energy conservation, and property value across public infrastructures.DAS Intellitech's most competitive edge lies in transforming the control of devices and machines into services for people. For instance, while sophisticated building systems were once managed only by a handful of dedicated operators, DAS Intellitech now enables every occupant inside the building to control facilities within their workspace via mobile application, creating a more convenient, comfortable, and low-carbon living and working environment for everyone. 

Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, chief executive officer, Invest Qatar, and Claire Liu, head of Global Business, DAS Intellitech, signing the agreement.
Business

DAS Intellitech to make Doha its Mena headquarters; signs pact with Invest Qatar

DAS Intellitech, a global leader in smart solutions, is making Doha its Middle East and North Africa (Mena) headquarters, marking a key milestone in its global expansion.In this regard, it signed a new partnership with the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) at the Mobile World Congress, which concluded Wednesday. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, chief executive officer, Invest Qatar and Claire Liu, Head of Global Business, DAS Intellitech, signed the agreement.The new headquarters will function as a central hub for the company's operations and serve as a base for research and development of advanced solutions tailored to the market. It will also foster collaboration with local SMEs (small and medium enterprises), academic institutions and research centres to drive innovation, digitalisation and sustainable growth in Qatar."Our Qatar office will operate as a strategic base to serve the broader Middle East region, an important milestone in our global growth strategy. The country’s dynamic economy, world-class infrastructure and forward-looking investment policies present the perfect environment for innovation and expansion," said DAS Intellitech founder and chairman, Liu Bang.Qatar’s commitment to fostering technological advancement and sustainable development aligns seamlessly with its vision, making it the ideal location for it to drive smart solutions tailored to the region's needs, according to him.Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, chief executive officer of Invest Qatar, said it was pleased to welcome DAS Intellitech to Qatar, whose presence will strengthen the country’s thriving knowledge economy and bolster its position as a centre for technological innovation in the Mena region."Their entry underscores how Qatar’s strategic location, digital infrastructure and business-friendly ecosystem make it an ideal gateway for companies looking to enter the thriving Mena market. We are committed to continue attracting investment within the digital technology sector, in line with the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3),” Sheikh Ali said.Recently, Invest Qatar visited the DAS Intellitech’s headquarters to explore its cutting-edge technologies and gained deeper insights into its comprehensive capabilities. During discussions, Invest Qatar and DAS Intellitech identified strategic opportunities for collaboration and reaffirmed their shared commitment to supporting Qatar National Vision 2030.DAS Intellitech has already established itself as a strategic partner in Qatar's development, with a proven track record of delivering critical projects for key entities such as the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the Supreme Judiciary Council, and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, all of which directly support the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. These initiatives highlight the company’s long-standing alignment with the country’s priorities in innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification.DAS Intellitech offers a comprehensive suite of advanced capabilities, including DAS’ centralised AIoT Platform, energy-saving expertise especially applied in district cooling stations, the ability to build supercomputing centres at an accelerated pace, and a proven track record in delivering smart IoT systems for high-rise towers, hospitals, and subways. These integrated solutions significantly enhance operational efficiency, energy conservation, and property value across public infrastructures.Finding that DAS Intellitech’s most competitive edge lies in transforming the control of devices and machines into services for people, it said while sophisticated building systems were once managed only by a handful of dedicated operators, DAS Intellitech now enables every occupant inside the building to control facilities within their workspace via mobile application, creating a more convenient, comfortable, and low-carbon living and working environment for everyone. 

Gulf Times
Business

QCB deputy governor attends Financial Stability Board Regional Consultative Group meeting in Istanbul

His Excellency Deputy Governor of the Qatar Central Bank Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid bin Ahmed bin Sultan al-Thani participated in the meeting of the Financial Stability Board Regional Consultative Group for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena), which was held in Istanbul Thursday.The meeting discussed a number of topics on the agenda and appropriate decisions were taken, the QCB said.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif al-Mannai, President of the QMMF and Lusail International Circuit, said the event provided young drivers with a platform to showcase their abilities, develop their skills, and pursue their dreams within a professional environment.
Sport

Morocco crowned champions at Mena Karting Championship

Morocco emerged champions of the Mena Karting Nations Cup 2025, with Lebanon securing second place and Qatar finishing third overall as the championship concluded at the Lusail Karting Track Saturday.The Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) hosted championship for the third time, which saw over 170 drivers from 18 Middle Eastern and North African countries compete. An exhilarating competition culminated in a lively closing ceremony at Lusail Karting Circuit, where the champions were celebrated.Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif al-Mannai, President of the QMMF and Lusail International Circuit, said: “Hosting the Mena Karting Championship Nations Cup for the third consecutive year reflects our ongoing commitment to nurturing motorsport talent across the region. This event provided young drivers with a platform to showcase their abilities, develop their skills, and pursue their dreams within a professional environment. We are proud to see such strong participation and sportsmanship from all nations, and we extend our appreciation to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his continued support in empowering youth through this championship.”The results of each category are as follows: Micro Max: In the final, Alex Moghabghab (Lebanon) led the grid, clocking 17 minutes 51.688 seconds, followed by Abdulaziz al-Sarraf (Kuwait) with 17 minutes 56.310 seconds, and Linda Hanini (Tunisia) with 17 minutes 57.174 seconds.Mini Max: In the final, Nahyl El Gahoudi (Morocco) led the grid, clocking 13 minutes 39.266 seconds, followed by Atiqa Mir (UAE) with 13 minutes 40.537 seconds, and Tony Abou Jawdeh (Lebanon) with 13 minutes 45.727 seconds.Junior Max: In the final, Nathan Kappen (UAE) led the grid, clocking 20 minutes 56.169 seconds, followed by Roslan Sryer (Algeria) with 20 minutes 58.569 seconds, and Abdulrazzaq al-Quraishi (Saudi) with 21 minutes 05.947 seconds.Senior Max: In the final, Anis Tazi (Morocco) led the grid, clocking 20 minutes 56.775 seconds, followed by Laith Mouminah (Saudi) with 20 minutes 58.119 seconds, and Sanad al-Hamawi (Jordan) with 20 minutes 59.699 seconds.DD2 and DD2 Masters: In the final of DD2, Hamza Hashisho (Qatar) led the grid, clocking 20 minutes 49.967 seconds, followed by Edwin Khneisser (Lebanon) with 20 minutes 50.229 seconds, and Ghali El Fechtali (Morocco) with 20 minutes 53.035 seconds. In the final of DD2 Masters, Nadir Kabbage (Morocco) led the grid, clocking 20 minutes 51.857 seconds, followed by Faisal Yafei (Qatar) with 20 minutes 55.760 seconds, and Salhi Sofiane (Algeria) with 21 minutes 02.850 seconds.R390 Elite Sprint: In the final, Christopher Njeim (Lebanon) led the grid, clocking 21 minutes 32.054 seconds, followed by Matthias Njeim (Lebanon) with 21 minutes 37.207 seconds, and Ahmad al-Hammadi (UAE) with 21 minutes 37.425 seconds.R390 Elite Endurance: In the final, the UAE dominated the grid, securing first place, followed by Morocco in second and Oman in third.

Gulf Times
Sport

MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup 2025: Regional talent shines on day two

The MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup 2025 organised by Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) concluded an exciting day two at the Lusail Karting Circuit. The championship welcomed 173 drivers from 18 nations and featured races in different age groups, bringing together a diverse set of talent from the Middle East and North Africa. Spectators enjoyed free access to six karting categories and the vibrant Fan Zone, which offered numerous engaging activities between races. Day two of the championship featured a qualifying session followed by three Heats. These qualifying sessions began with the Micro Max category (8 - 11 years) followed by Mini Max (10 - 13 years), Junior Max (12 - 15 years), Senior Max (14+ years) and finally DD2 (15+ years), DD2 Masters (31+ years), R390 Sprint (ages 15+) and R390 Endurance (ages 15+). Following the qualifying sessions, drivers competed in three Heat sessions. These sessions allowed them to familiarize themselves with the track and formulate their strategies for the upcoming final races. The final classification for the races for each category are as follows: Micro Max: Isaac El Haouti from Morocco secured P1 with a time of 53.627 seconds, followed by Alex Moghabghab (Lebanon) with a time of 53.872 seconds, and Ayden Ouaich (Morocco) in P3 with a time of 54.028 seconds during the qualifying session. In Heat 1, Isaac El Haouti (Morocco) led the grid again, clocking 8 minutes 01.385 seconds, followed by Alex Moghabghab (Lebanon) with 8 minutes 02.987 seconds, and Abdulaziz Al Sarraf (Kuwait) with 8 minutes 03.039 seconds. In Heat 2, Isaac El Haouti (Morocco) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 01.386 seconds, followed by Abdulaziz Al Sarraf (Kuwait) with 8 minutes 05.180 seconds, and Ayden Ouaich (Morocco) with 8 minutes 05.300 seconds. In Heat 3, Alex Moghabghab (Lebanon) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 0.971 seconds, followed by Isaac El Haouti (Morocco) with 8 minutes 4.417 seconds, and Abdulaziz Al Sarraf (Kuwait) with 8 minutes 4.823 seconds. Mini Max: Atiqa Mir from UAE secured P1 with a time of 50.868 seconds, followed by Nahyl El Gahoudi (Morocco) with a time of 51.222 seconds, and Tammem Mustafa (KSA) in P3 with a time of 51.510 seconds during the qualifying session. In Heat 1, Atiqa Mir (UAE) led the grid again, clocking 8 minutes 30.232 seconds, followed by Nahyl El Gahoudi (Morocco) with 8 minutes 34.329 seconds, and Tammem Mustafa (KSA) with 8 minutes 37.698 seconds. In Heat 2, Atiqa Mir (UAE) once again led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 28.798 seconds, followed by Nahyl El Gahoudi (Morocco) with 8 minutes 31.196 seconds, and Tony Abou Jawdeh (Lebanon) with 8 minutes 31.536 seconds. In Heat 3, Atiqa Mir (UAE) continued her dominance by leading the grid, clocking 8 minutes 29.752 seconds, followed by Nahyl El Gahoudi (Morocco) with 8 minutes 32.100 seconds, and Tony Abou Jawdeh (Lebanon) with 8 minutes 32.705 seconds. Junior Max: Roslan Sryer from Algeria secured P1 with a time of 48.255 seconds, followed by Faris Haroun (UAE) with a time of 48.344 seconds, and Nathan Kappen (UAE) in P3 with a time of 48.363 seconds during the qualifying session. In Heat 1, Nathan Kappen (UAE) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 58.183 seconds, followed by Roslan Sryer (Algeria) with 8 minutes 59.418 seconds, and Faris Haroun (UAE) with 8 minutes 59.906 seconds. In Heat 2, Roslan Sryer (Algeria) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 56.037 seconds, followed by Faris Haroun (UAE) with 8 minutes 57.269 seconds, and Riyad Yousfi (Morocco) with 8 minutes 58.084 seconds. In Heat 3, Nathan Kappen (India) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 55.909 seconds, followed by Roslan Sryer (Algeria) with 8 minutes 57.308 seconds, and Faris Haroun (UAE) with 8 minutes 59.192 seconds. Senior Max: Anis Tazi from Morocco secured P1 with a time of 48.039 seconds, followed by Sanad Al Hamawi (Jordan) with a time of 48.185 seconds, and Laith Mouminah (KSA) in P3 with a time of 48.190 seconds during the qualifying session. In Heat 1, Anis Tazi (Morocco) led the grid again, clocking 8 minutes 58.550 seconds, followed by Laith Mouminah (KSA) with 8 minutes 58.673 seconds, and Sanad Al Hamawi (Jordan) with 8 minutes 59.114 seconds. In Heat 2, Anis Tazi (Morocco) led the grid yet again, clocking 8 minutes 57.727 seconds, followed by Oscar Lambert (UAE) with 8 minutes 59.222 seconds, and Sanad Al Hamawi (Jordan) with 9 minutes 01.679 seconds. In Heat 3, Laith Mouminah (KSA) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 59.160 seconds, followed by Anis Tazi (Morocco) with 8 minutes 59.327 seconds, and Tameem Hassiba (Qatar) with 8 minutes 59.689 seconds. DD2 and DD2 Masters: Edwin Khneisser from Lebanon secured P1 with a time of 47.703 seconds, followed by Taha Hassiba (Qatar) with a time of 47.706 seconds, and Faesal Yafei (Qatar) in P3 with a time of 47.738 seconds during the qualifying session. In Heat 1, Edwin Khneisser (Lebanon) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 54.245 seconds, followed by Ghali El Fechtali (Morocco) with 8 minutes 54.870 seconds, and Faesal Yafei (Qatar) with 8 minutes 55.657 seconds. In Heat 2, Edwin Khneisser (Lebanon) led the grid a third time, clocking 8 minutes 54.568 seconds, followed by Taha Hassiba (Qatar) with 8 minutes 56.513 seconds, and Ghali El Fechtali (Morocco) with 8 minutes 56.663 seconds. In Heat 3, Taha Hassiba (Qatar) led the grid, clocking 8 minutes 54.108 seconds, followed by Faesal Yafei (Qatar) with 8 minutes 54.568 seconds, and Souhil Khatal (Algeria) with 8 minutes 56.307 seconds. R390 Elite (Endurance Race): UAE Team 1 secured first place with a time of 2 hours 31.779 seconds, followed by Morocco Team 2 with a time of 2 hours 25.321 seconds, and Oman Team 2 in third place with a time of 2 hours 45.422 seconds.

Gulf Times
Sport

QMMF set to host region's premier karting event for third consecutive year

The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) is once again set to bring the region’s karting scene into the spotlight as it will host the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup 2025 at Lusail Karting Circuit from October 21–25, 2025. Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition in 2023 and its return in 2024, this year’s championship promises to deliver an even bigger showcase of regional motorsport talent.The championship will feature more than 150 drivers from 18 nations across the Middle East and North Africa, with competitors representing countries including Qatar, Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mauritania, Morocco, Iran, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Drivers will compete across six Rotax Max Challenge categories — Micro Max (ages 8–11), Mini Max (ages 10–13), Junior Max (ages 12–15), Senior Max (ages 14+), DD2 (ages 15+), and DD2 Masters (ages 31+) — alongside the R390 Sprint and R390 Endurance categories open to drivers aged 15 and above.The action-packed schedule will see administration and driver briefings open on 21 October, with practice sessions held across October 22 and 23, alongside a formal Welcome Ceremony and Gala Dinner. Racing will then take center stage from October 24–25, featuring qualifying sessions, heats, the R390 Endurance race, Pre-Finals, and Finals, culminating with the Championship Awards and MENA Nations Cup Presentation on the evening of October 25.Spectators are invited to enjoy all the high-octane action with free admission throughout the event. A dedicated shuttle service will operate between General Admission Parking and the karting track, while visitors can also experience a vibrant entertainment zone with racing simulators, a radio-controlled car circuit, PlayStation 5 gaming stations, and a 360-degree photo booth. For fans unable to attend in person, all races will be streamed live on QMMF’s official YouTube channel.Last year’s edition saw Lebanon claim the MENA Nations Cup title, with Morocco finishing second and the UAE securing third place, highlighting the depth of talent across the region. With the bar set high in 2024, this year’s championship is poised to deliver another thrilling weekend of racing and national pride.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Apex Health has been recognized by Arab Hospitals Federation with Five Distinction Awards Under the Gold Initiative Certificate - Star of Excellence in Patient Experience.

As the fastest-growing healthcare provider in the MENA region, Apex Health stands out for its exceptional patient-centered care with earning five recognition awards.Apex Health, a subsidiary of Estithmar Holding and one of the Middle East and North Africa’s leading healthcare providers, has achieved a remarkable milestone in its journey, with the organization itself, along with four of its hospitals recognized among the winners of the Arab Hospitals Federation’s Gold Initiative Certificate - Star of Excellence in Patient Experience. Each hospital achieved distinction in its own category, reflecting Apex Health’s unwavering commitment to delivering patient-centered excellence care across its hospitals.The recognition took place during a ceremony held on Wednesday, under the patronage and in the presence of distinguished leaders, with the participation of the Arab Hospitals Federation, the support and knowledge contribution of The Beryl Institute, and the presence of leading healthcare institutions from across the Arab world.Following a rigorous evaluation by a jury panel in collaboration with The Beryl Institute. These hospitals stood out among 267 participating healthcare institutions from 10 countries for their excellence in safety, quality, innovation, governance, and the overall patient journey. For Apex Health, this achievement reinforces its reputation for operational excellence, innovative practices, and a culture that places patients at the heart of everything it does.Apex Health’s celebrated itself and four of its hospitals in both Qatar and Iraq, each earning top positions in multiple categories within the Gold Initiative Certificate. In Qatar, The View Hospital, and the Military Medical City Hospital, managed by EWS stood out, while in Iraq, Al Imam Al Hassan Al Mujtaba Teaching Hospital in Karbala Governance and Al Nasiriya Teaching Hospital in Dhi Qar Governance were distinguished.Apex Health itself was honored with a Recognition Award under the Gold Initiative Certificate – Star of Excellence in Patient Experience. This distinction highlights the group’s dedication to delivering trusted, high-quality healthcare, building a resilient and sustainable health system, and fostering innovation across all its projects and partnerships.The View Hospital, in affiliation with Cedars-Sinai, has been recognized for its leadership in clinical excellence and continuity of care, and earned Gold in both Safety and Quality of Care and Continuity of Care and Transition Management. A reflection of its commitment to ensuring every patient’s journey is safe, smooth, and supported at every stage.The Military Medical City Hospital, managed by EWS, has been acknowledged for its progressive approach to healthcare innovation, with achieving Silver in Sustainability, Innovation & Technology, reflecting its efforts to integrate advanced solutions, adopt sustainable practices, and continually enhance the way care is delivered.Al Nasiriya Teaching Hospitall, Dhi Qar Governance, Iraq, in recognition for its strong governance and organizational culture, received a Silver in Leadership, Governance, Policy & Culture, highlighting its commitment to effective leadership, clear policies, and a supportive environment that puts patients first.Al Imam Al Hassan Al Mujtaba Teaching Hospital, Karbala Governance، Iraq, has been recognized for its high standards in clinical safety, and was awarded Silver in Safety and Quality of Care, underscoring its dedication to protecting patients, upholding rigorous safety protocols, and delivering reliable, high-quality treatment.Commenting on the achievement, Joseph Hazel, Group Chief Executive Officer, Apex Health, said: “This is a proud moment for our entire team. Earning a Recognition Award along with five certificates in Qatar and Iraq across different categories is more than recognition, it’s a reflection of our people’s dedication, our patients’ trust, and our vision to set new benchmarks in healthcare across the MENA. Our success is strengthened by trusted international partnerships and strong relationships with government entities which have been instrumental in advancing the quality of care we provide, and this belongs to every member of our hospitals who works tirelessly to deliver care that is safe, innovative, and deeply personal.”The recognition from the Arab Hospitals Federation underscores Apex Health’s vision to shape a healthier future through trusted care, advanced technology, and global partnerships with delivering measurable improvements in healthcare outcomes and patient satisfaction.

The delegation was led by QICCA Vice-Chairman Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali al-Thani and included Secretary-General Ibrahim Shahbik.
Business

QICCA participates in Singapore Convention Week on Mediation 2025

A delegation from the Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) at Qatar Chamber participated in a forum titled "Building Bridges in ADR: MENA meets Singapore”, held in Singapore as part of the Singapore Convention Week on Mediation 2025.The delegation was led by QICCA Vice-Chairman Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali al-Thani and included Secretary-General Ibrahim Shahbik.The participation reflected QICCA's commitment to enhancing its international presence, showcasing its role in advancing commercial arbitration in Qatar and the Middle East, and exchanging expertise with leading institutions and experts at this global legal event.Speaking in the forum’s first session, Sheikh Dr Thani highlighted Qatari Arbitration Law and the Center's rules, showcasing Qatar's experience in promoting arbitration and supporting its development through various measures stipulated under Arbitration Law No. 2 of 2017.He also outlined the key features of Qatari Mediation Law and emphasised the role of mediation in resolving disputes, stressing that Qatar was among the first countries in the Middle East to join the Singapore Convention on Mediation. He noted that this reflects Qatar’s belief in the importance of alternative dispute resolution in fostering economic development and encouraging investment.The session also discussed the role of alternative dispute resolution institutions in shaping dispute resolution mechanisms and supporting trade and investment in the Middle East and North Africa region.