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Qatar’s openness to robotics and automation technologies positions the country at the forefront of innovation in the region, a top executive of a major regional hypermarket group has said.Qatar’s labour market dynamics make it easier to integrate automation compared to other countries, according to Dr Mohamed Althaf, LuLu Group Global director.“In many countries, introducing automation raises concerns about the displacement of workers. Qatar does not face that challenge in the same way. The country has the resources and flexibility to adopt advanced technologies without creating social pressures,” Dr Althaf explained to Gulf Times.Citing extreme weather conditions as an example, Dr Althaf noted that robotics could provide tailored solutions tailored to Qatar’s unique environment. “Robotics can help overcome these limitations and ensure continuity in operations. This is why Qatar is well placed to serve as a launching pad for such technologies,” he pointed out.According to Dr Althaf, Qatar’s compact geography is an advantage for testing and scaling disruptive technologies. He said, “Cutting-edge innovation often emerges from smaller, agile economies. Places like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malta have shown how compact markets can nurture news ideas; Qatar shares that advantage.”Dr Althaf encouraged technology firms to connect with local partners to expand their reach, emphasising that “Qatar welcomes technology.” He stressed that companies that bring new solutions will find opportunities to scale in Qatar, especially by working with established players who can help them grow.In early February, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) noted in a statement that Qatar’s national drive to build a competitive digital economy is reflected in initiatives, such as the Digital Agenda 2030, the TASMU Accelerator, and programmes like Scale Now, which supports startups in expanding locally and internationally.At the Web Summit Qatar 2026, the MCIT reported that nine strategic agreements were signed to attract high-growth tech companies, underscoring the country’s commitment to innovation.Similarly during the summit, the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council has supported local firms, such as Snoonu in launching robotics projects, including drones and autonomous vehicles to improve logistics efficiency.Meanwhile, private investment is flowing into the sector, with X2 Ventures backing Deus Robotics, an automation platform for warehouses aimed at reducing reliance on manual labour and supporting Qatar’s broader digital transformation.Industry experts have also highlighted Qatar’s role in preparing the country’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for a digital future, with robotics and AI as key enablers.This was highlighted after Qatar Chamber previously announced the upcoming ROBOTECH 26 exhibition in October, and is expected to showcase technologies in smart transportation, logistics, and food security. 

Qatari firm X2 Ventures has invested in Deus Robotics, an all-in-one smart robotic automation platform delivering end-to-end solutions for warehouse, logistics and retail automation.The investment, announced during Web Summit Qatar 2026, marks a significant milestone as a strategic private Qatari investment in a technology company in this category, reflecting the strengthening innovation and investment ties between Qatar and Europe, Daria Revina, co-founder and vice-chair of the Qatar-Ukraine Business Forum (QUBF), told Gulf Times in a statement. X2 Ventures, led by Hamad Mubarak al-Hajri, founder & CEO of Snoonu Group and newly appointed CEO of International Markets at Jahez, continues to back scalable, impact-driven technologies that enhance operational efficiency, accelerate digital transformation, and support sustainable economic growth across the region, Revina pointed out. Revina emphasised that the investment was facilitated by QUBF as part of its mandate to advance technology, innovation, and international investment co-operation. She noted that the transaction underscores QUBF’s role in connecting high-growth technology companies originating in Ukraine with strategic partners and investors in Qatar and across the wider Gulf region. Revina explained that GCC markets, particularly Qatar, have been identified as a strategic growth priority for Deus Robotics. With the region’s logistics, retail, and industrial sectors heavily reliant on imported labour, Revina noted that robotic automation presents a compelling opportunity to enhance operational resilience, reduce dependency on manual processes, and support long-term productivity gains aligned with national development and digital transformation agendas. Al-Hajri highlighted the strong alignment between Deus Robotics’ scalable technology, proven market traction, and the GCC’s growing demand for smart automation solutions: “At X2 Ventures, we invest in technologies that solve real operational challenges and can scale globally. “Deus Robotics stands out for its strong engineering capabilities, demonstrated commercial traction, and clear relevance to the future of logistics and automation in this region and beyond.” According to Revina, Deus Robotics provides a unified AI-driven platform that enables enterprises to connect, manage, and optimise robotic fleets from any manufacturer through a single interface. Complementing this software layer is Deus Robotics’ own fleet of AI-powered autonomous robots, designed to improve key operational KPIs such as productivity, accuracy, scalability, and cost efficiency across warehouse and fulfillment operations, she said. Revina stated that the company has already demonstrated strong commercial traction, successfully deploying its solutions with national postal operators in Europe, and is currently expanding its footprint in the US, where demand for advanced logistics automation continues to accelerate. Commenting on the partnership, Paul Pikulin, CEO and co-founder of Deus Robotics, said: “We are excited to work with Hamad Mubarak al-Hajri and X2 Ventures to bring our proven market traction to Qatar and GCC countries, where the demand for robotic logistics automation continues to accelerate.” Revina underscored QUBF’s commitment to building a tech and ‘innovation bridge’ to connect the best of Ukrainian engineering, innovation, and entrepreneurial talent with Qatar’s rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem. She said, “The Deus Robotics investment reflects the growing depth of collaboration between our two countries. It demonstrates how strategic partnerships can accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies that enhance productivity and resilience. “By facilitating such connections, we aim to support Qatar’s transition toward a diversified, knowledge-based economy while strengthening long-term technology and investment ties between Ukraine, Qatar, and the wider region.” Revina added: “This investment reflects Qatar’s increasing engagement with frontier technologies and innovation-driven startups, while reinforcing the growing global demand for highly competitive engineering and technology talent.” 

An industry expert in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics has lauded Qatar’s heavy investments in advanced technologies as part of the government’s wider strategy to diversify the economy and strengthen the country’s role as a regional hub.Ling Li, the exhibition manager of ‘International Exhibition on Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Technologies 26’ (ROBOTECH 26), underscored the role of AI and robotics in helping key players in the private and public sectors advance their services.“Qatar will be able to adapt and use them in the right way to develop its different sectors,” Li told Gulf Times on the sidelines of Qatar Chamber’s announcement of its support for ROBOTECH 26, which is scheduled to take place in Doha from October 27-29, 2026.For decades, Qatar’s prosperity has been tied to the oil and gas industry. But Li pointed out that the country is now channelling resources into new sectors, citing healthcare, education, transportation, and smart city development – areas where robotics and AI can deliver transformative results.Highlighting Hamad International Airport (HIA) as an established global hub, Li emphasised that integrating robotics into operations could enhance efficiency and passenger services. “AI and robotics can play across many different sectors – from medical applications to transport and education,” she further said.Li also lauded Qatar’s successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, citing the country’s ability to stage major technology initiatives. “After the World Cup, Qatar can take the lead for GCC countries in AI and robotics,” said Li, adding that the country’s proven capacity to deliver world-class events now underpins its confidence in becoming a technology leader.Li stressed that while Qatar is determined to lead regionally, the country is also opening its doors to international partners. She said companies from China and other nations are encouraged to participate in Qatar’s technology drive: “Together, we will definitely be able to grow and progress in a short time.”According to Li, Qatar represents a gateway to an emerging robotics and AI market, even as she described the current moment as “a new area” and “very exciting for many companies.”She also underscored the value of timing: “We truly believe this is a great time for everybody to come into this expansion and explore this new market.” Li noted that Qatar’s dedication to technology is not just about infrastructure or investment, but about shaping a new identity for Qatar as a hub of innovation.Li pointed out that all of Qatar’s ambitions will be on display in October 2026 when Doha hosts ROBOTECH 26, an exhibition dedicated to AI and robotics. She said the event will feature sectors ranging from smart city solutions to medical robotics and manufacturing.“We want exhibitors to show the best technology,” stated Li, who added that ROBOTECH 26 will allow Qatar to demonstrate how it is moving from being a global stage for support to becoming an international stage for technology. 

Qatar Chamber hosted a press conference at its headquarters yesterday to announce the first edition of the International Exhibition on Robotics and Artificial Intelligence technologies (ROBOTECH), which will be held from Oct. 27-29 of 2026 in Doha, with official support from Qatar Chamber.The press conference was attended by HE First Vice-Chairman of the Qatar Chamber Mohamed bin Twar Al Kuwari, Acting General Manager Ali Bu Sherbak Al Mansori, General Manager of the organising company Stallion Haitham Shehab, and the Exhibition Manager Ling Li.ROBOTECH is a specialized exhibition that aligns with Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030, which emphasizes the importance of the Information Technology and digital transformation as a fundamental sector for developing the digital economy and enhancing long-term capabilities in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and emerging technologies.The exhibition is expected to attract leading companies specializing in advanced artificial intelligence systems and robotics across various sectors, including healthcare, smart transportation, logistics, education, cybersecurity, food security, fintech, Industrial technologies, smart cities, and environmental conservation.In his speech at the press conference, HE First Vice Chairman of the Qatar Chamber Al Kuwari, who is also the Vice-Chairman and General Secretary of The Qatar Business Council emphasized that Qatar is witnessing rapid development in the information technology sector and is among the top 20 countries globally in the 2025 Digital Competitiveness Index issued by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD). This continuous progress reflects the country's commitment to building a competitive, knowledge-based, and innovation-driven economy, and underscores the ongoing development the country is experiencing under Qatar National Vision 2030, which places digital transformation and innovation at the heart of the nation's sustainable development."Qatar Chamber's support for this exhibition is part of its strategy and is one of the activities of the Qatari Business Council after its restructuring. The exhibition also contributes to strengthening the integrated partnership between the public and private sectors", he added.The QC First Vice-Chairman said that the Business Council will invite Qatari business owners and companies to participate in the conference accompanying the exhibition, enabling them to benefit from dialogue sessions and panel discussions. In addition, the Council will organise a seminar and several workshops bringing together Qatari business leaders with heads and representatives of participating international companies, with the aim of enhancing trade and investment cooperation opportunities and building strategic partnerships that serve the interests of all parties.For his part, Acting General Manager of the Qatar Chamber Al Mansori said that the Chamber is keen to support this important exhibition, noting that innovation and artificial intelligence are considered engines of the economy, pointing out that the exhibition represents a valuable opportunity to conclude deals and partnerships between Qatari and international companies in these fields.General Manager of Stallion, noted that ROBOTECH 26 will occupy 15,000 square meters facilitating extensive international participation. It is designed as the premier platform to discover cutting-edge technologies and catalyze public-private partnerships in this high-growth sector. He also commended Qatar Chamber's pivotal role: "We highly value Qatar Chamber's official support. Its renowned advocacy for the private sector is instrumental in advancing Qatar's business and investment climate, making it the ideal partner for this landmark exhibition."The global artificial intelligence market reached approximately $136.55 billion in 2022, with an annual growth rate of 37.3%. This growth is linked to continuous research and innovation by technology giants, in addition to the adoption of this technology by industrial, commercial, and governmental companies in sectors such as automotive, healthcare, retail, and finance.According to Market Research, the market size is expected to reach $826.73 billion by 2030, up from $93.27 billion in 2020, reflecting an unprecedented investment boom in modern technological history. Robots will also be applied to improve the efficiency of key industries such as healthcare and automation, with the global robotics market expected to reach $189.36 billion by 2027.

Plan highlights Tesla's reliance on Musk amid slowing EV demandAward could boost Musk's stake further if targets metTargets include company hitting market value of $8.6tn in 10 yearsTesla's board has proposed a $1tn compensation plan for CEO Elon Musk in what would be the largest corporate pay package in history, underscoring the hold Musk has over the carmaker as it attempts to transform into an AI and robotics powerhouse.The world's richest person has consistently asked for a bigger stake in the company to gain more control, even as a legal battle over his 2018 pay package — then valued at a mere $56bn — continues. The newly proposed award is roughly 18 times the size of the contested plan and is close to the company's current market valuation.The plan highlights Tesla's reliance on Musk as it faces slowing EV demand, rising competition from Chinese rivals and pressure to deliver on its AI ambitions."While bold compensation tied to performance is nothing new, the sheer scale here sets a new bar for CEO incentives and will dominate boardroom debates everywhere," said Adam Sarhan, chief executive of 50 Park Investments in New York.The regulatory filing puts Musk on a different plane than other technology executives, saying that "traditional compensation packages granted to executives at other companies were determined to not be appropriate for designing Mr. Musk’s incentive compensation."Musk transformed Tesla from a niche EV startup into the world's most valuable automaker, scaling production, expanding globally and pushing the industry toward electric mobility.Recently, however, Tesla has been losing ground to Chinese rival BYD and other automakers amid softening EV demand and intensifying competition in key markets.Supporters of Musk's outsized pay package proposals have argued that his compensation plans have aligned his incentives with long-term growth, while critics have warned of potential dilution and governance risks."This is a ridiculously large pay package. It raises lots of questions, but last year Musk moved Tesla from Delaware to Texas in order to avoid all those questions," said Brian Quinn, professor at Boston College Law School. "Given that Tesla's stock price is basically all vibes and appears to have very little to do with the automaker's actual performance, I suspect they will approve this package."The board said the new award could lift his stake significantly if all targets were met, giving him even greater control as Tesla seeks to become the world's most valuable company.The proposed plan would grant Musk up to 12% of Tesla's stock, worth about $1.03tn if the company hits its target market value of $8.6tn. The plan requires boosting Tesla's valuation nearly eightfold, or about $7.5tn, over the next decade.If fully earned, the award would materially increase Musk's voting power from his roughly 13% stake, intensifying debate over governance and succession.The board said the award would vest in tranches tied to both market capitalisation and operational milestones such as mass production of robotaxis and humanoid robots.Tesla emphasised that Musk would receive no salary or cash bonus, with all compensation linked to performance, echoing the structure of his 2018 plan.The company's shares were up about 4% in early trading.Tesla's board earlier this year approved an interim compensation package for CEO Elon Musk worth about $29bn in restricted stock, designed to keep him at the helm through at least 2030 as the company pivots to an AI-first strategy.Tesla has since reincorporated in Texas and is appealing the Delaware ruling, but the company said the new plan reflects shareholder feedback and stronger governance safeguards.The filing also disclosed that a special committee of independent directors reviewed the proposal, which will go to a shareholder vote in November.Musk's foray into party politics and his willingness to challenge President Donald Trump have heightened concerns among Tesla investors about potential distractions from the company’s core business.In July, Elon Musk announced plans to launch a third political party, the "America Party," following a public clash with Trump over a tax cut and government spending bill.Trump dismissed the idea as "ridiculous," warning that a third party would create chaos. Since then, Musk appears to have slowed the initiative, underscoring his unpredictable approach to politics.Governance experts have said these moves reinforce long-standing worries about Musk's unpredictability and the concentration of power in his hands.Tesla's board has urged shareholders to vote against a proposal calling for a political neutrality policy, which would have expanded board oversight of Musk's political activities.Tesla shares hit a record high late last year after Trump returned to the Oval Office, as investors anticipated regulatory easing that could accelerate the rollout of robotaxis. However, the stock has since retreated from those highs amid Musk's political spat with the president.