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Doha has transformed from a modest Gulf town into one of the region's most recognisable modern cities — but for the man widely regarded as Qatar's first professional architect, its real achievement lies in doing so without losing its identity."Doha today is a state-of-the-art city with world-class infrastructure, yet it has a unique identity. It is not just another metropolitan city. The cultural integration has been one of the highlights of the city, and in a contemporary way," said Ibrahim Mohammed Jaidah, founder of one of the country's oldest and largest home-grown architectural firms.Speaking to Gulf Times, Jaidah, group chief executive officer of Arab Engineering Bureau, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, reflected on his career, the evolution of Doha's skyline and the role architecture has played in shaping the nation's identity. Amid the city's rapid modernisation, he said, preserving cultural identity had been paramount."Msheireb Downtown Doha is a prime example of how modern architecture can draw inspiration from traditional urban design, incorporating features such as shaded streets, compact building layouts and climate-responsive design principles," he said. "While early development brought an influx of glass-clad skyscrapers, Qatar gradually embraced architecture that reflects its heritage in contemporary ways."Throughout his career, Jaidah has been involved in some of Qatar's most recognisable landmarks. His portfolio includes Al Thumama Stadium for the FIFA World Cup 2022, major government buildings, museum and tower projects in West Bay and Lusail, and large retail developments such as Doha Festival City, Place Vendôme and Gulf Mall.After moving to the United States in 1979, where he completed high school, studied art and later architecture, he returned to Qatar in the 1980s and began his professional journey. He went on to acquire a small architectural firm with just six employees. Over the decades, it grew into the largest wholly Qatari-owned architectural practice in the country's history, employing up to 700 people."I grew up with the development of Qatar. Our success coincided with the nation's rapid development during the economic boom of the 1990s and 2000s," he said.Jaidah also praised the development of West Bay and the Corniche skyline. "The area's curved waterfront master plan is one of the factors that gives Doha its distinctive character. The skyline has become a symbol of Qatar's economic confidence and modernisation," he pointed out.According to Jaidah, the FIFA World Cup marked a turning point in Qatar's global image, showcasing not only its infrastructure but also its architectural achievements to billions of viewers worldwide.He said Qatar's urban growth was set to continue in a carefully planned and sustainable manner. "Lusail City and the emerging Simaisma developments are examples of future expansion. Unlike the unplanned growth seen in some cities, Qatar's development strategy emphasises sustainability, infrastructure integration and long-term planning," he noted.On environmental challenges, Jaidah stressed the importance of designing buildings suited to Qatar's climate. "Lessons from traditional Gulf architecture remain relevant today, including smaller openings, shaded spaces and careful orientation to reduce heat gain and energy consumption," he said. "Sustainability is no longer just a marketing term. It has become part of Qatar's regulations and development strategy."While he appreciates both skyscrapers and low-rise developments, Jaidah believes each has a role to play. High-rise districts symbolise economic strength and global ambition, he said, while horizontal developments often offer greater harmony with the local environment.Asked to name a favourite project, Jaidah said it was difficult to single out one achievement, though Al Thumama Stadium held special significance for allowing him to contribute to one of the most important moments in Qatar's modern history."All my projects are like my children," he said. "But Al Thumama Stadium will always be a milestone because I was part of the success story of my country." 

The State of Qatar participated in the opening of the 2026 Annual Meetings of the Islamic Development Bank Group inaugurated by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.  Qatar was represented at the opening of the meetings by His Excellency the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari. The meetings are being held in Baku on 16 -19 June 2026, under the slogan "Regional Integration for Sustainable Prosperity," and witnessed wide participation from representatives of member states and international development partners.  Participants discussed ways to enhance sustainable development and economic integration. Qatar's participation comes as part of its commitment to supporting development cooperation with member states and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals.  HE al-Kuwari also attended the first and second plenary sessions within the framework of the annual meetings of the Group, where the sessions discussed a number of priority issues for member states, including strengthening development and economic cooperation, supporting the stability of the Islamic financial system, developing innovative financing tools, as well as exploring ways to enhance integration among member states and expand partnerships with regional and international financial institutions in a manner that supports development efforts and economic growth.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), launched Sunday, at the headquarters of the General Secretariat, the "Gulf Legislation Platform".The platform is one of the initiatives designed to elevate legislative integration among the GCC states by enabling the review of unified Gulf legislation issued within the framework of joint Gulf action, and providing a unified electronic reference that contributes to supporting legislative and legal work across the Council member states.During the launch, GCC Secretary General, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi applauded the efforts of those in charge of this initiative, which came in implementation of the decision of the Standing Committee of Officials of Legislation Departments in the GCC States at its 19th meeting. The committee had approved the General Secretariat's proposal to establish this specialised platform to streamline access to unified Gulf and national legislation.The platform provides advanced search services that enable government and legal entities in the member states, alongside specialists, researchers, and those interested in legislative affairs, to access and review unified Gulf legislation and national legislation with efficiency and ease. This enhances the exchange of legal expertise and supports legislative co-ordination and integration among the Council states. The platform currently includes more than 24,700 legal and legislative documents.  

In a move to enhance the Arab presence globally, the Arab Federation for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Programming announced the appointment of Dr Bader bin Dalham al-Fahd al-Hajri as its president at an extraordinary meeting of its Board of Directors, with representatives from member states in attendance.This appointment reflects the federation's commitment to strengthening Arab integration in modern technology and supporting efforts to build a unified regulatory framework for AI.In a statement, Dr al-Hajri affirmed that the federation represents an institutional Arab framework that can help unify efforts among Arab countries in AI and programming. He indicated that the next phase will focus on developing a comprehensive strategic vision, including training and research initiatives, programmes to develop Arab talent, and preparations for launching joint projects with Arab universities and research centers.He explained that the federation seeks to help establish integrated Arab regulatory and legislative frameworks that bridge the existing international gap in regulating AI technologies. This will ensure the responsible and ethical use of these technologies and preserve the cultural values and strategic interests of Arab countries.He pointed out that among the union's priorities are promoting scientific research and innovation in vital sectors such as health, education, and energy, organising specialised conferences and workshops, and launching competitions and incentive initiatives to support technological entrepreneurship among Arab youth.He emphasised that AI has become a fundamental pillar of the global economy, and that strengthening the Arab presence in shaping international policies and standards is no longer an option but a necessity. He stressed that the federation will work to build regional and international partnerships that contribute to consolidating the position of Arab countries as active partners in shaping the digital future.This approach is in light of Qatar's strategic role in supporting innovation and digital transformation across the Arab region. Dr al-Hajri affirmed that the federation's vision aligns with the policies adopted by the State to attract high-calibre Arab talent. He explained that Qatar's advanced infrastructure and investments in technology and AI constitute a foundation upon which to build, supporting the federation's programmes and regional initiatives, thereby reducing the brain drain of Arab talent and enabling skilled individuals to work within an integrated Arab system.The council unanimously approved granting Dr al-Hajri the full powers stipulated in the bylaws, in addition to approving the redistribution of some leadership positions, which will enhance the efficiency of institutional work during the next stage, and keep pace with the rapidly evolving challenges in the AI and programming sector. 

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani met Thursday with Senegal's Minister of African Integration, Foreign Affairs and Senegalese Abroad Cheikh Niang, who is visiting Doha.  Discussion during the meeting dealt with bilateral relation and ways to bolster them; regional developments; and boosting efforts aimed at cementing security and stability in Africa in addition to a host of topics of mutual interest. 

A delegation comprising four senior executives from the portfolio companies of Builders VC held meetings with senior Qatari institutions and innovation leaders to assess pathways for long-term market integration, localised operations, and participation in the country’s rapidly scaling national artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced-technology ecosystem. According to Builders VC, the delegation visited Qatar to explore early opportunities in the region. It includes Colossal Biosciences, a biotechnology company developing advanced genetic engineering and de-extinction technologies, and Augment.Market, a platform enabling accredited investors and shareholders to buy and sell shares in privately held companies before they go public. Also part of the delegation is Argus Cognitive, an AI-driven behavioural diagnostics platform that uses smartphone-based assessments to help identify early indicators of autism and neurodevelopmental conditions (the technology was originally developed at Qatar Foundation), and Native Microbials, a biotechnology company producing next-generation probiotics and microbiome solutions to improve livestock productivity, sustainability, and animal health. The visit, which preceded the announcement of Qai, underscored growing alignment between global frontier technology companies and Qatar’s long-term innovation agenda.A Reuters report stated that “Brookfield and Qai, an artificial intelligence company owned by Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund, have formed a $20bn joint venture to develop artificial intelligence infrastructure in Qatar and select international markets, the two groups said on Tuesday.” The report also stated, “The Gulf country’s $526bn sovereign wealth fund, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), said on Monday it was setting up its own national AI company, Qai, following in the steps of regional peers the UAE and Saudi Arabia, as they invest to become global AI hubs outside of the US and China.” Jim Kim, managing partner at Builders VC, said: “Qatar has laid out a clear national strategy to build a diversified, innovation-led economy anchored in advanced technologies and global collaboration. “Our focus is to introduce world-class companies that can contribute real operating capability, talent development, and long-term value to that vision. This delegation reflects the alignment we’re seeing with Qatar’s national AI trajectory.” Kim said the delegation visited Doha as part of Builders VC’s broader strategy to deepen its engagement in the Middle East and support high-growth global companies exploring regional expansion. It also aligned with Qatar’s broader innovation and diversification priorities, at a time when the country is stepping up investment in advanced digital and AI infrastructure, most recently through the launch of Qai and its strategic initiatives to strengthen national digital capacity. During the visit, Builders VC held an exclusive networking reception in collaboration with the QIA and the Q Venture Capital Association (QVCA). The delegation also explored opportunities for technology localisation, reviewed regulatory considerations, and assessed possibilities for early market testing and R&D initiatives in meetings with key national institutions, including the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council (QRDI), Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), Qatar Development Bank (QDB), the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Hassad Foods, and Earthna. Tarik Sultan, general partner and head of Mena at Builders VC, said: “What stood out during this visit was Qatar’s readiness to move with purpose. The institutions we met were aligned, strategic, and deeply committed to accelerating the innovation priorities outlined in NDS3 and Qatar National Vision 2030. It’s exactly the kind of environment where our companies can scale, build local capabilities, and contribute meaningfully to long-term national development.” 

His Excellency the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Sayed affirmed that Qatari investments are growing in the Arab Republic of Egypt, and that concerted efforts are underway for industrial and investment integration and co-operation between the two countries.Talking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the sidelines of the Egyptian-Qatari Investment Forum in Cairo, HE Dr al-Sayed said that this forum was held under the directives of the leadership of both countries and as a continuation of the exchange of visits between Qatari and Egyptian officials to enhance opportunities for joint co-operation.He explained that the Egyptian economy possesses many competitive advantages, noting in this regard the Egyptian market's access to European markets due to the free trade agreements between Egypt and the European Union. He pointed out that this is important for increasing the flow of Qatari exports and investments to European markets.Regarding efforts to attract investment to the State of Qatar, HE Dr al-Sayed said that Qatar has established a sophisticated infrastructure and an attractive investment regulatory environment in recent years, emphasising the importance of attracting Egyptian investments to Qatar in the coming period.He also encouraged Egyptian companies to use Qatar as a base for accessing Asian markets for Egyptian goods, while calling for further joint investments between the private sectors of both countries to accelerate economic growth, as the private sector plays a fundamental role in driving this growth.HE Dr al-Sayed noted that trade figures between the two countries have witnessed a steady increase in recent years, hoping for a significant increase in the coming period, as well as an increase in the flow of capital between the two countries, ultimately leading to economic and investment integration.HE Dr al-Sayed and the Egyptian Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Eng Hassan El Khatib inaugurated the Egyptian-Qatari Investment Forum, in the presence of ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Arab Republic of Egypt and its Permanent Representative to the League of Arab States Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulrahman al-Thani.The forum addressed a number of topics including prospects for investment co-operation between the two countries and strengthening the economic partnership between Egypt and Qatar, vision for real estate and tourism investment and the role of financial services in enabling projects, in addition to the role of the logistics sector as an engine for economic growth, and enhancing competitiveness in industry: innovative solutions and effective partnerships. 

The "National Development Forum: Social Development Pillar," organised by the National Planning Council (NPC) under the theme "Sustaining Prosperity in Qatari Society," discussed key priorities in social development, including strengthening family cohesion, safeguarding cultural identity, promoting social integration, enhancing quality of life, and advancing cultural and social tourism as contributors to national progress.The panel featured Her Excellency Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr al-Nuaimi, His Excellency Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad al-Thani, His Excellency Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim al Mahmoud, and His Excellency Chairman of Qatar Tourism Saad bin Ali al-Kharji.The session stressed that progress under the Third National Development Strategy is reflected not only in economic indicators but also in the resilience of Qatar’s social fabric. Speakers highlighted expanding family support, improving health and wellbeing, and strengthening cultural participation. His Excellency Secretary-General of the National Planning Council Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa reaffirmed that Qatar National Vision 2030 places the family at the heart of sustainable development.

Qatar Exports has concluded its 2025 trade mission to Oman, with participation from more than 45 Qatari firms, with the value of potential deals exceeding QR223mn.The mission represented a new milestone in advancing trade and investment cooperation between Qatar and Oman.It aligns with the joint statement issued earlier this year, which reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to supporting the private sector, intensifying efforts to increase trade exchange, and enhancing economic integration between the two countries."The strong coordination and joint efforts throughout this mission reflect the depth of economic relations between Qatar and Oman, and the real potential both countries share for building meaningful regional and international partnerships grounded in mutual interests," said Khalid Abdulla al-Mana, Qstar Development Bank (QDB) Vice President of Enterprise Development and Executive Director of Qatar Exports.Through Qatar Exports, QDB is committed to promoting Qatari products in Gulf and global markets, he said, adding "we will continue to support national exporters by building their capabilities and opening doors to new markets, helping them compete globally as part of our broader strategy to grow Qatar’s export ecosystem.”The mission brought together senior Qatari and Omani officials and featured in-depth bilateral discussions between the two sides, alongside a series of meetings and an exhibition for Qatari companies that highlighted the diversity and quality of Qatari products.In total, the program included 350 bilateral meetings, the mission’s activities attracted more than 450 visitors, and the value of potential deals exceeded QR223mn.

Qatar Chamber is participating in the 28th Arab-African Investment and International Cooperation Conference and Exhibition, which opened Sunday in Cairo. Board member and Chairman of the Food Security and Environment Committee, Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Obaidly is representing the Chamber in the event, which addresses economic integration and opportunities for international partnerships. Held under the patronage of the League of Arab States, the conference serves as a strategic platform for fostering joint investments and forging international partnerships that support economic growth across Arab and African nations. The event brings together a high-level gathering of economic leaders, experts, policymakers, and investors from the Arab region, Africa, and the wider international community. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Al Obaidly said the conference comes at a critical time of economic momentum in the Arab and African regions, calling for enhanced cooperation and the establishment of meaningful public-private partnerships. He stressed that industry and investment are key engines of modern economies and essential pillars for sustainable growth. He also noted their strategic importance in addressing global economic challenges, diversifying economies, and creating job opportunities. Al Obaidly highlighted Qatar's strong focus on both industry and investment under its National Vision 2030, which aims to build a sustainable, diversified economy less dependent on hydrocarbons. He pointed to the development of advanced industrial and free zones, world-class infrastructure, and a range of investor-friendly policies in Qatar, including full ownership incentives, streamlined procedures, and broad support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Al Obaidly further noted the vital role Qatar's private sector plays in driving industrial and investment development, with Qatari companies successfully contributing to the country's production base and engaging in strategic projects both at home and abroad. He concluded by emphasizing the role of Qatar Chamber in supporting industrial investments, facilitating partnerships between Qatari and international business leaders, and promoting initiatives that enhance the business climate and attract investment.

Kuwait's Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who is visiting the Sultanate of Oman, and Sultan Haitham bin Tareq of Oman discussed the long-standing bilateral relations between Kuwait and Oman. During the meeting, the two sides explored ways to strengthen cooperation across various fields, particularly in the economic sector, aiming to enhance trade and investment coordination and integration to reinforce mutual interests and achieve further progress and prosperity.

The Department of Islamic Research and Studies at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs will launch the first event of the second cultural season of the 'Knowledge Integration' seminar series on Tuesday.The first seminar will discuss the possible implications of the process of knowledge integration, within the framework of examining and reflecting on selected models from the long history of Islamic civilization and the cultural, intellectual, and scientific achievements that have continued to shape the present and build the future.The seminar will be held at the Imam Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab Mosque, immediately after Isha prayer. Held in cooperation with the Ibn Khaldon Centre for Humanities and Social Sciences at Qatar University, the seminar will feature the participation of a select group of scholars, researchers, and academics.Director of the Department of Research and Islamic Studies Sheikh Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al-Thani said that the seminar is a semi-annual, scientific, and intellectual cultural event held twice a year. It focuses on the causes, tools, and methods for achieving interaction and integration between various sciences, and it examines cultural issues and social problems from an Islamic perspective, he added.The Director of the Department of Research and Islamic Studies said that the seminar's primary goal is to promote a culture of cognitive integration, which tops the list of objectives the Department of Research aims to achieve through its seminars, lectures, and various publications.As for the second seminar of this season, Sheikh Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al-Thani explained that it will take place in February 2026 and explore possible ways to advance 'cultural interaction' as a foundation for cognitive integration. This will be achieved through two main, interconnected axes, each with its own intellectual and practical implications.