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Qatar’s evolving infrastructure landscape is creating new opportunities for engineering leadership, with professionals highlighting the country’s growth, collaborative environment and increasing prospects for women in large-scale projects.Qatar’s rapid infrastructure development continues to provide a dynamic environment for engineering professionals, with international expertise playing a key role in shaping large-scale projects across the country.Florentina Canto Navarro, electrical manager for the Facility E reverse osmosis desalination plant project and a senior industrial electrical engineer at ACCIONA, said her nearly decade-long experience working on Qatar-linked projects reflects both professional growth and the country’s transformation.“Having worked with ACCIONA for almost ten years on projects linked to Qatar, I have seen significant development both in my career and in the country’s infrastructure,” Navarro said.She explained that her career has progressed through several roles, starting from electrical site supervision to engineering leadership positions, allowing her to gain experience across different stages of project development.“My journey has evolved from being directly involved in construction activities to taking on more engineering leadership responsibilities,” she said. “This has given me a comprehensive understanding of projects from design through to execution.”Navarro currently balances responsibilities between engineering leadership and on-site field operations — a role she described as both challenging and rewarding.“My work is quite dynamic,” she said. “It requires coordination between engineering teams and on-site execution, ensuring that what is designed is implemented correctly.”She noted that one of the key challenges lies in maintaining alignment between technical planning and real-world construction conditions.“Being involved both in design and on site means constantly adapting and solving problems,” she said. “But it is also one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.”Navarro highlighted that Qatar’s infrastructure environment has evolved significantly over the years, shifting from rapid urban expansion to more strategic and sustainability-focused development.“Previously, many projects were centred on urban growth,” she said. “Now, the focus is more aligned with long-term planning and sustainability.”She also emphasised the collaborative nature of projects in Qatar, which bring together diverse teams from different backgrounds.“One of the most remarkable aspects of working in Qatar is the collaboration between multiple nationalities and institutions,” she said. “It creates a highly skilled and efficient working environment.”As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Navarro encouraged young women in Qatar to consider careers in engineering.“Engineering is a challenging but highly rewarding field,” she said. “There are increasing opportunities, and what matters most is passion, commitment and willingness to learn.”She stressed that the industry is evolving, with more women taking on leadership roles in large-scale projects.“Don’t be discouraged by traditional perceptions,” she said. “Focus on your skills and the value you can bring.”Reflecting on her work, Navarro said the most fulfilling moment comes when a project transitions from concept to reality. “What I enjoy most is seeing how ideas, designs and calculations gradually take shape,” she said. “When the project becomes operational and starts delivering results, it is incredibly rewarding.”She added that being part of such projects in Qatar has been particularly meaningful.“It is a great feeling to know that your work contributes to infrastructure that supports the country’s development,” she said. 

Three government ministries joined forces Wednesday to unveil a scholarship programme that will send Qatari students abroad to study nuclear engineering — with their salaries running the entire time they're in class.Standing at the podium of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education's press conference, officials from MOEHE, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau laid out what they billed as one of the most generous scholarship packages the state has offered in a specialised technical field.The pitch is straightforward: students who qualify will receive a full government salary throughout their undergraduate studies overseas, have those study years counted toward their civil service tenure, and walk into a guaranteed Grade Nine government position upon graduation — with a path to postgraduate funding waiting after that."This is a strategic qualitative step," said Dr Hareb Mohammed al-Jabri, MOEHE's Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education Affairs, describing nuclear engineering as "one of the most critical and future-oriented scientific disciplines."He was direct about the programme's intent — it isn't simply about producing graduates, it's about filling a specific institutional gap. Appointments will go directly to MECC's Radiation Protection Department, which regulates radiation use across Qatar's medical and industrial sectors.The financial incentives are notable. Yousef Ibrahim al-Hamar, MECC's Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental Affairs, and Yaqoub Saleh al-Ishaq of the Civil Service Bureau confirmed that nuclear engineering carries an 85% work nature allowance under Prime Minister's Decision No. 25 of 2025 — the highest work nature allowance of any engineering discipline in the government structure.Officials were candid about why the scholarship must send students abroad: nuclear engineering is not taught anywhere in Qatar. Graduates will train at internationally accredited universities, working in labs and technical units within the Radiation Protection Department when they return, giving them hands-on exposure across medical imaging, industrial applications, and regulatory oversight.Al-Ishaq framed the Bureau's role as more than administrative. "We're ensuring alignment between educational outputs and actual career pathways," he said, describing the programme as an "integrated path" designed from the first day of undergraduate study through to a defined career trajectory in government service.Selection criteria are tight. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, meet specific grade thresholds from prior qualifications, satisfy English language requirements, and hold unconditional admission from an accredited university. Officials acknowledged the number of seats will be small, reflecting both the rarity of the specialization and the precision of the workforce need.An awareness campaign targeting secondary school students is planned to accompany the launch, with officials keen to demystify a field many young Qataris may know little about.The initiative falls under Qatar National Vision 2030's push to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on expatriate expertise in technically sensitive sectors.Applications are expected to open following the awareness rollout. 

Abu Dhabi-based aerospace engineering firm Sanad has announced the renewal of its long-term lease agreement with Etihad Engineering.Signed by Baha Salama, general manager of Aviation and Aero Engine MRO at Sanad, and Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering, the agreement secures approximately 40,000sq m of land and facilities at Etihad Engineering’s 550,000sq m MRO facility adjacent to Zayed International Airport.The arrangement strengthens the deep-rooted partnership between two of Abu Dhabi’s leading aviation champions and reinforces their shared commitment to advancing the emirate’s long-term aerospace ambitions. As Sanad enters its next phase of growth, expanding capacity, capabilities, and workforce across both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the agreement ensures long-term operational continuity at its historic base of over 38 years.Sanad will continue operating its engine MRO operations, where it maintains LEAP, GEnx, V2500, and Trent 700 engines for over 55 global airlines and leading engine OEM partners. The secured footprint provides the physical capacity needed to increase engine inductions, scale future capabilities, and expand high-skilled technical teams.The agreement comes as Sanad progresses its major expansion in Al Ain, including the new GTF Engine MRO Centre and advanced test cell complex. Together, the Abu Dhabi and Al Ain facilities form a consolidated, UAE-wide engine MRO platform, enhancing capacity, strengthening supply chain resilience, and accelerating the development of specialised technical talent.Mansoor Janahi, managing director and Group CEO of Sanad, said: “As we scale our capabilities in Al Ain, our Abu Dhabi base remains integral to our operations and our people. The renewal of our lease supports the expansion of our engine capacity, growing our workforce, and delivering world-class MRO solutions from Abu Dhabi to the world.”Mahmood al-Hameli, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi Aviation, added: “Sanad’s continued presence at the Etihad Engineering facility, adjacent to Zayed International Airport, strengthens our combined technical capabilities and supports the emirate’s long-term aerospace strategy.”The agreement directly contributes to Abu Dhabi’s vision for a stronger, more advanced aerospace future. By securing long-term access to critical operational space at Zayed International Airport, Sanad is empowered to expand its capacity, scale its engine programs, and grow its highly skilled workforce.The enhanced infrastructure supports next-generation engine MRO and enables deeper integration with Etihad Engineering, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre of engineering excellence. Together, these efforts contribute to a vibrant and resilient aerospace sector that drives industrial growth, nurtures local talent, and accelerates the emirate’s rise as a global aviation leader. 

Qatar University (QU) participated in the 19th QatarEnergy LNG Engineering Conference, which featured leading experts, professionals, and decision-makers from around the world.The QU pavilion presented a wide range of research projects and technological innovations that highlight QU’s efforts in supporting sustainable energy and digital transformation. Among the innovations was a hybrid energy harvesting system combining piezoelectric and electromagnetic technologies for remote sensing in oil and gas pipelines and nondestructive testing solutions.The system using ultrasonic waves assesses sustainable construction materials such as recycled fibre-reinforced concrete and 3D printing technologies.QU revealed several technical solutions that support sustainability and industrial safety. These included the innovative ClearExhaust device, capable of reducing diesel engine emissions by up to 30%; a smart vibration isolation system using hybrid magnetic materials; the automated Raqeeb platform for heat stress monitoring; and a high-efficiency car radiator designed for hot climates. In the field of smart and robotic technologies, QU presented advanced innovations that improve performance in industrial and environmental sectors. Highlights included HazBot, a robot for inspections in hazardous environments; robotic systems for inspecting gas tanks and complex pipelines; the MasterPi system for developing automation solutions; and a spherical photovoltaic solar system designed to enhance solar energy efficiency.Faculty members and students also participated in scientific sessions and presentations, in addition to showcasing research posters addressing themes such as innovation, technology, sustainability, integrity, operational reliability and safety, and best practices in operational excellence.

A two-day conference on role of chemistry and chemical engineering in building a more sustainable future kicked off in Doha Sunday. Organised by Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in collaboration with the American Chemical Society (ACS) and Qatar University (QU), the Innovations in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Future Conference brings together about 160 experts and specialists in the fields of chemistry, chemical engineering, and the oil, gas, and water sectors. The conference, the fourth of its kind, , showcasing innovative technologies, and highlighting the pioneering role of chemistry and chemical engineering in building a more sustainable future. It also promotes collaboration across disciplines and contributes to supporting research in Qatar within priority areas of the National Development Plan. In his speech at the conference, HE former Minister of Energy and Industry and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Doha University Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, emphasised that sustainability is no longer an option, but rather a necessity imposed by global environmental challenges, underscoring the importance of innovation and scientific research in the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering to achieve balanced and sustainable development. HE Dr Al Sada noted that Qatar, known for its abundant natural gas resources and rapid economic development, is moving toward expanding its development horizons to include the rational management of natural resources and environmental protection, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030, of which environmental development is a fundamental pillar. He explained that chemistry and chemical engineering represent a key focus in supporting sustainability through the development of innovative solutions in the fields of energy, water, industry, and materials science. He emphasised the country's commitment to promoting the use of clean technologies and improving production efficiency in line with its environmental responsibilities. Speaking on scientific research efforts at higher education institutions, such as Texas A&M University at Qatar, and the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), he pointed out that they contribute to the development of solar energy systems, carbon capture technologies, and eco-friendly water desalination, supporting the country's transition to a low-emission and more sustainable future. He also highlighted the importance of waste management in line with the principles of green chemistry, through recycling, the optimal use of resources, and pollution reduction, stressing that such efforts support the shift toward a circular economy that protects the environment and creates added value. In his opening remarks, the Conference Chair, Associate Dean for External Affairs and Head of the Division of Science at HBKU, Dr Hassan Said Bazzi, said that the conference provides a platform for students and researchers to showcase their expertise and ongoing projects in Qatar. This includes the real-world application of scientific innovation and the promotion of collaboration between academia and industry in support of national strategic goals and Qatar National Vision 2030. For his part, Vice-President for Research at HBKU Eyad Ahmad Masad, emphasised that the materials and processes currently under development form the foundation for future solutions. These innovations contribute to lowering emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the quality of life. He reiterated the university’s commitment to developing innovative solutions that support the sustainability of Qatar’s environment and resources. In turn, Chair of the Committee on International Activities (IAC) of the American Chemical Society (ACS), Dr Michael McGinnis, remarked that the conference serves as an exceptional platform for interaction between academics and practitioners.

A new batch of experts took the legal oath this morning at the Ministry of Justice to be registered in the Ministry of Justice's roster of experts accredited before the judicial authorities in the country, in accordance with the regulations stipulated in Law No. (16) of 2017 regulating expert work. The new batch includes (12) experts from national cadres, with expertise in various specializations, including accounting, real estate, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mining engineering, civil engineering, and human resources. On this occasion, Director of the Experts Department at the Ministry of Justice, Abdullah Abu Shahab Al Marri congratulated the new experts on their taking of the legal oath. He emphasized the importance of the role of experts as assistants to judges and one of the pillars of achieving prompt justice, based on their legal responsibility to present evidence and proof regarding the technical aspects related to various cases, and the role expert reports play in expediting the issuance of judgments and the adjudication of cases. The Director of the Experts Department at the Ministry of Justice noted that the Ministry of Justice, upon the directives of His Excellency Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi, is keen to strengthen the national cadre of experts and provide expertise that keeps pace with the comprehensive renaissance witnessed by the country in all fields, and to create the appropriate conditions for providing an integrated Qatari expertise system and adding new areas of expertise according to the needs of the judicial authorities and other entities.

Sheikh Salim bin Said bin Hamed al-Fannah al-Araimi, chairman of Galfar Engineering & Contracting and former president of the Oman Football Association (OFA) passed away Friday. Al-Araimi founded Galfar in 1972, transforming it into Oman’s largest contractor and a public joint stock company in 2007.In addition to his role at Galfar, al-Araimi was chairman of Bank Sohar and Salim International Investment Holding, and served on the board of the Oman Charitable Organisation. His contributions to Oman's infrastructure and economic development were significant, earning him an honorary doctorate from Glasgow Caledonian University in 2007.A passionate advocate for sports, he played a pivotal role in promoting football in Oman, particularly through his leadership at the OFA and involvement with Arouba Club.Al-Araimi’s legacy is marked by his commitment to philanthropy, community development, and sports, leaving a lasting impact on Oman’s growth and prosperity. It was in 1995 that Galfar Al Misnad, began its independent operations in Qatar, building upon the legacy of Galfar Oman.

QatarEnergy LNG hosted the ‘19th Engineering Conference’ bringing together industry professionals, academics, and partners to exchange new ideas, share lessons learned, and to strengthen networking across the oil and gas sector.The conference held at the Qatar National Convention Centre recently, was attended by experts from QatarEnergy LNG, shareholders, local and international companies, and leading local universities.The event served as a premier platform for the exchange of technical knowledge, innovative technologies, and practical lessons learned, while offering valuable opportunities for professional networking and cross-sector collaboration.It also emphasised meaningful engagement between the energy industry and local academic institutions, enabling productive dialogue and potential partnerships that contribute to the sustainable growth of Qatar’s energy sector.QatarEnergy LNG CEO Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa al-Thani opened the conference with a message that underscored the strength of partnerships in Qatar’s oil and gas sector and the privilege of hosting such a milestone event.He stated: “This conference marks an important milestone for QatarEnergy LNG. Engineering excellence, innovation, and operational resilience and reliability remain at the core of our progress and today we reaffirm that commitment. We are not only gathered here to share knowledge, but to also align, challenge, and inspire one another.”This year’s conference marks a transition from an annual engineering forum to a biennial conference. Moving to a two-year cycle enables the company to gather richer insights, highlight meaningful project milestones, and engage in forward-looking discussions that reflect the rapid evolution of the industry.The conference concentrated on four core themes that drive performance and sustainable growth in the LNG and broader oil and gas sector: digitalisation, cyber security, and artificial intelligence; decarbonisation initiatives; aging facilities and asset life extension; and energy efficiency and yield improvement.The conference hosted a management panel discussion titled: ‘Expansion & Sustainability - Enabling QatarEnergy LNG’s Future’.The discussion focused on QatarEnergy LNG's commissioning and operational integration of expansion projects as the panellists shared insights into the company's future plans and strategies in this field.The event included five technical panel discussions, forty technical presentations, eighty poster sessions showcasing key innovations and field achievements, and fifteen booths from our shareholders, various academic institutions, industry partners and QatarEnergy LNG highlighting advanced solutions and the latest technologies and research in the oil and gas industry, providing valuable insights to enhance operations.On the first day, attendees explored parallel sessions across the four thematic tracks, with key technical presentations and topics spanning collaborative development of in-house ‘Predictive Emission Monitoring Systems’ for QatarEnergy LNG, a pilot study for boilers and turbines, a slated Closed Flare Retrofit Industrialisation project, and a structured approach to asset life extension ensuring safety and integrity.Other notable presentations included discussions on synergising conventional and unconventional reservoir completion technologies, disruptive decarbonisation through lower carbon aviation fuel and industrial CO2 recycling, and the use of artificial intelligence agents to revolutionise reservoir characterisation and optimisation.Additional papers highlighted resource optimisation on legacy DCS controllers, energy efficiency strategies for reducing natural gas consumption in rolling mill reheat furnaces, and ongoing poster presentations from industry and academia focusing on reliability, digital twin technology and process safety.The day also featured sessions on AI-enabled reservoir forecasting, data-driven maintenance, and digitalisation efforts across the asset base, all designed to foster practical knowledge transfer and collaboration.The second day continued with a focus on digitalisation, cyber security and artificial intelligence, decarbonisation initiatives, aging facilities and asset life extension, and energy efficiency and yield optimisation, with further technical presentations, case studies and interactive discussions.Highlights included explorations of artificial intelligence in energy systems and process optimisation, decarbonised heat production for LNG plants with hydrogen and CO2 integration concepts, subsea pipeline damage assessment and repair, and the role of mixed refrigerant technology in achieving energy and cost savings through digitalisation.Attendees also heard about streamlined well surveillance through digitalisation, automation and production data optimisation, sustainable hydrogen supply chain networks with cross-industry collaboration, and reliability paradigms supported by AI-enabled predictive maintenance for LNG facilities.Other sessions addressed eco-friendly transformation of end-of-life membranes for industrial wastewater treatment and asset life extension, aging LNG facility lifecycle environmental challenges, and advances in physics-informed neural networks for transformer insulation degradation prediction, complemented by discussions on smart maintenance and corrosion inhibition for aging LNG facilities and AI/ML applications in the process industry.Additional topics included innovative pump technology for downhole wet gas compression and finite element analysis of LNG pipelines with virtual flame sensing for turbines.A vibrant posters programme complemented the technical programme, featuring practical case studies and research from QatarEnergy, QatarEnergy LNG, ExxonMobil, Qatar Shell, North Oil Company, QCHEM, Qafco, Qapco, Qatar University, HBKU, University of Doha for Science & Technology and Texas A&M Qatar.