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The latest edition of Smart City Expo Doha has highlighted Qatar’s leadership in smart and sustainable urban development across the Mena region.Qatar’s prominent role in this field is already evident through major national projects that bring the country’s digital vision to life. Lusail city, one of the most advanced smart city developments in the region, integrates real-time data systems, intelligent mobility solutions, and connected urban services that enhance quality of life and operational efficiency.Similarly, Msheireb Downtown Doha stands as the first fully built smart and sustainable city district in Qatar, combining digital innovation, energy efficiency, and human-centred urban design. Together, these concrete examples demonstrate how Qatar is shaping future-ready urban environments and progressing toward the ambitions outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the nation’s Digital Agenda 2030.The fourth edition of the expo concluded two days of intense discussions on how technology can transform cities in the Middle East into sustainable and liveable environments.The event, organised by Fira de Barcelona and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), focused on the impact of AI in fields such as mobility, design, and urban management.Under the slogan ‘Beyond connectivity: a digital solutions pathway to a smarter, thriving future’, the event brought together over 30 international experts and featured four standout keynotes: MCIT Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Affairs Reem al-Mansoori on Qatar’s urban transformation strategy; Kent Larson (MIT) on tech-driven urban design; Jesus Serrano on AI innovation, and FIFA ambassador Ghanim al-Muftah with an inspiring message on resilience and inclusion.This year, Smart City Expo Doha was featured at MWC25 Doha. Organised by the GSMA in collaboration with MCIT, the first MWC event in the Middle East and Africa region brought together nearly 300 thought leaders and over 250 exhibitors and sponsors.Held annually in Barcelona, Smart City Expo World Congress is the world’s leading event on smart cities. Smart City Expo Doha is one of its local editions organised outside Spain in 2025, including those in New York, Curitiba, Puebla, Santiago del Estero, Santiago de Chile, Kuala Lumpur, Cartagena de Indias, and Tomorrow.City in Shanghai. Organisers are preparing for its fifth edition, scheduled on April 28–29, 2026. 

Old Doha Port capped off Tuesday the third Seabed Cleaning Initiative, underscoring its steadfast commitment to safeguarding the marine environment and amplifying community awareness of sustainable practices. In a statement, the Port highlighted that since its inception in 2023, the initiative has emerged as a core environmental pillar, strategically reinforcing the national agenda's priorities on sustainable development and the preservation of Qatar's ecological resources.This year's initiative witnessed integrated collaboration between certified divers, governmental functionaries, and private-sector partners, within a coordinated operation extending across the entire waterfront of the Port, the statement read.It further pointed out that divers successfully operated to remove accumulated waste from the deep water reaching 6 meters, which included plastic materials, fishing lines, nets, and heavy debris that pose a threat to marine life and navigation safety, noting that the intervention areas were identified based on precise seabed surveys conducted prior to the operation.The initiative has received substantial backing from partners, with the Ministry of Municipality providing operational mechanisms and support, while the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change conducted environmental oversight and provided essential technical guidelines, the statement continued.The statement clarified that ExxonMobil Qatar also undertook the role of strategic contributor, while Tanzifco carried out onsite waste sorting operations and ensured that recyclable materials were directed to the competent authorities, with the Qatari Coast Guard ensuring the safety of divers throughout the seabed cleaning operation.It remarked that the Arab Center for Engineering Studies (ACES) organized workshops and interactive activities for children on sustainability to contribute to strengthening awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. Other key participants included Environmental and Green Energy Services, Athar Alfardan, Alfardan Marine Services, Hai Wash, and Mr. Valet.As such, CEO of the Old Doha Port, Eng Mohamed Abdullah al-Mulla, asserted that this initiative is a testament to the Port's responsibility toward the coastal environment in the State of Qatar, emphasizing that the nation's marine environment constitutes a time-honored part of its national identity and preserving it is a duty on the part of all.This initiative has become an annual landmark with concrete positive impact that corrals the community's enterprises and individuals toward one goal, as long as holding each one of these initiatives reinforces the collective responsibility in safeguarding the nation's natural resources for the generations to come, Al Mulla stressed.Vice President and Manager of Public and Government Affairs at ExxonMobil Qatar, Rashid al-Hajri, underlined that collaboration with the Port in this initiative underscores an all-hands-on-deck approach in protecting the environment and marine life, as well as promoting sustainability for the next generations.Noteworthy, the initiative comes in alignment with the environmental development pillar within Qatar National Vision 2030, which includes a pro-environment appeal for the protection of natural resources and environmental equilibrium, in addition to bolstering environmental governance and societal partnership.Since its launch in 2023, the Initiative has been incrementally expanded, emerging today as one of the Port's core pillars in the long-term sustainability agenda amid plans to enlarge its scope and broaden the engagement of the community members in the years ahead. 

Qatar has unveiled a new book documenting the country's environmental achievements and long-term climate ambitions, as officials reaffirm the State's commitment to sustainable development.The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change launched 'Environmental Sustainability in Qatar 2025' at a ceremony attended and sponsored by His Excellency Minister of Environment and Climate Change Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie. The publication aims to capture Qatar's national journey in protecting natural resources, reducing emissions and embedding sustainability across government and industry.Assistant Undersecretary for Climate Change Affairs, Ahamed Mohammed al-Sada, said sustainability has become a national guiding principle shaping future policies and projects. Qatar, he noted, is working to balance economic growth with environmental protection while improving quality of life. Al-Sada described the new book as a reference point that highlights the commitment of both public and private institutions to applying best environmental practices. It also showcases the country's progress in expanding clean energy, improving air-quality monitoring, and backing innovative low-emission initiatives.**media[389146]**The launch was paired with a conference featuring sessions on sustainable transport, green real-estate development and the role of banks in supporting the green economy - a forum that officials said helped generate recommendations aligned with the country's sustainability goals.The publication comes as Qatar advances several national strategies, including its Third National Development Strategy and the ministry's 2024-2030 environmental strategy. These frameworks set out priorities for environmental governance, resource management and long-term climate planning.The book outlines key ministry programs, from emissions-reduction initiatives and biodiversity protection to enhanced environmental readiness and improved monitoring systems. It also documents national projects in water, energy and waste management, green infrastructure and sustainable mobility.The chapters highlight conservation efforts for marine and terrestrial wildlife, habitat restoration projects, species-monitoring programs and regular coastal clean-ups.**media[389147]**The publication also features community-led environmental initiatives and research projects that have deepened understanding of Qatar's ecosystems.Urban sustainability is another focal point, with case studies on expanding green spaces, upgrading public parks, adopting green-building standards and integrating public transport, electric vehicles and pedestrian and cycling networks into city planning.The book also details Qatar's participation in global climate agreements, its role in hosting major environmental conferences and its support for developing nations seeking climate finance and resilience assistance. The ministry said the publication reflects Qatar's dedication to documenting its environmental progress and advancing a development model that balances economic growth with the preservation of natural resources. The goal, it added, is to ensure long-term environmental security for future generations and contribute to the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. 

Msheireb Properties, the leading sustainable real estate developer in Qatar, won four awards at the Qatar Tourism Awards 2025, marking Msheireb’s continued success at the prestigious awards for the third consecutive year. The Awards, presented by Qatar Tourism and World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), recognise innovation and excellence in the nation’s tourism sector, aiming to raise awareness of Qatar as a world-class tourism and leisure destination. Msheireb Properties received recognition across multiple categories: Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) was named Leading Sustainable Attraction: in the hospitality sector, Ammar Samad from Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som received the Community Leadership award; The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha won Exceptional Spa Experience; and Liang at Mandarin Oriental, Doha was recognised for Exceptional Fine Dining Experience. These recognitions reflect Msheireb Properties’ integrated approach to creating destinations that honour Qatari heritage whilst embracing innovation, sustainability, and cultural excellence. From MDD’s pioneering sustainable urban development and smart city technologies to Msheireb Museums’ preservation of Qatar’s rich heritage through immersive storytelling, the awards acknowledge the commitment to meaningful experiences that serve both residents and visitors whilst supporting Qatar National Vision 2030. Msheireb Properties CEO Ali Mohammed al-Kuwari said: “This recognition celebrates the collective efforts of our entire team in creating meaningful experiences that honour Qatari heritage whilst embracing innovation and excellence across all aspects of our work. We remain committed to developing destinations that are not only sustainable and accessible, but also deeply rooted in authentic Qatari culture and values”. As a key cultural and tourist destination, MDD contributes to the growth of Qatar’s tourism sector by promoting cultural exchange, nurturing social interaction, and championing sustainability. The city embodies the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, accessibility, and responsible tourism. “These recognitions reflect the dedication of our entire team across all our divisions. We remain committed to preserving Qatar’s rich cultural heritage whilst pushing the boundaries of sustainable development and inclusive design,” al-Kuwari said. 

Mannai Energy and Positive Zero have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the deployment of clean energy projects across Qatar. The MoU, which supports Qatar National Vision 2030’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship, was signed Abey Rajan, general manager of Mannai Energy, and David Auriau, CEO of Positive Zero.The strategic partnership brings together Mannai Energy’s deep expertise in project delivery and local market integration with Positive Zero’s leadership in intelligent, site-integrated energy systems. By leveraging an “as-a-service” model, the collaboration will enable businesses and industries in Qatar to adopt advanced clean energy solutions, such as on-site solar PV (rooftop, carport, and ground-mount), energy efficiency programmes, and clean mobility initiatives, without upfront investment.These solutions are designed to reduce operational costs, lower carbon emissions, and support the nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Rajan said, “We are proud to partner with Positive Zero in advancing Qatar’s clean energy agenda.This initiative reflects Mannai Corporation’s dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility, and supporting the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030. Together, we aim to deliver impactful projects that foster sustainable growth, energy resilience, and a better quality of life for future generations.” Auriau said, “We are honoured to collaborate with Mannai Energy in support of Qatar’s National Renewable Energy Strategy and National Climate Change Action Plan.Through this partnership, we will expand access to cost-effective clean energy solutions, empowering Qatar’s businesses and communities to contribute to a sustainable future.” The partnership will also focus on knowledge transfer, capacity building, and the development of local talent — key priorities of Qatar National Vision 2030. Mannai Energy will provide engineering, procurement, construction, and operations and maintenance services to international standards, while Positive Zero will lead project development, financing, and asset management throughout the project lifecycle.

Qatari suppliers are stepping up with innovative, environmental and sustainable materials that improve building performance while reducing environmental impact to support Saudi Arabia’s strides in making energy-efficient and sustainable growth in the building industry a top priority, as it accelerates its Vision 2030 plan.Insulation, modular components, high-performance finishing materials, solar-integrated lighting, energy-efficient HVAC systems, water management solutions, and eco-friendly structural elements are among the wide range of energy-efficient solutions offered by Qatari businesses.These materials help developers create long-lasting, future-ready projects, lower energy costs, and comply with green building standards. Ensuring that these solutions reach the Saudi market effectively, collaboration between institutions is also driving sustainable construction in Saudi Arabia.Supported by Qatar Development Bank (QDB), the Qatar Exports Office in Riyadh serves as a hub connecting Saudi developers, contractors, and procurement teams with approved Qatari vendors. The office provides supplier verification, matchmaking services, and market insights, ensuring Saudi stakeholders can access trusted partners for sustainable building projects.Qatari suppliers have already demonstrated their ability to deliver durable, environmentally friendly solutions at scale, making them ideal partners for projects ranging from commercial complexes to major residential developments and infrastructure. These partnerships not only strengthen Qatar-Saudi economic ties in the construction sector but also advance the Kingdom’s sustainability objectives.Among the Qatari companies at the forefront of the collaboration are HP Industries, Central Ventilation Systems, Beyond Lighting, and Al Ruwais Plastic Factory. Complementing these efforts, other prominent players such as Seashore Group, Suhail Engineering Industries, and Gulf GRC further strengthen Qatar’s commitment to technological innovation and environmental responsibility.Together, these suppliers bring innovative, sustainable products that are well-suited to the Kingdom’s growing demand for green building materials, infrastructure resilience, and smart urban development. Many more Qatari companies stand ready to respond to the Kingdom’s evolving needs. Saudi entities interested in exploring partnerships with Qatari suppliers or identifying energy-efficient building solutions are invited to connect directly with the Qatar Exports Office.

Qatari innovation firm Ibtechar has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Qatar’s innovation ecosystem and empowering individuals and institutions to translate ideas into tangible, sustainable outcomes during its participation in Rowad 2025, which concluded Wednesday.Its commitment was reflected in the company’s thought-leadership panel, engaging youth workshops, and interactive booth, stated Ibtechar co-founder and CEO Nayef al-Ibrahim. He said: “Our participation at Rowad emphasises our commitment to building Qatar’s innovation capacity and ability to deliver practical, tailored solutions.Rowad is a key platform for meaningful collaboration, knowledge exchange, and we’re proud to contribute to its impact.” He added: “Through our panel discussion, youth workshops, and interactive booth, we engaged directly with students, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.Our diverse presence helps us understand real challenges on the ground, share targeted expertise, and support organisations in turning innovative ideas into impactful solutions, contributing directly to Qatar’s sustainable growth.” The panel discussion on ‘Education, Culture, and Innovation in Global Entrepreneurship’ featured al-Ibrahim, alongside speakers from renowned local and regional organisations, including Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), Edraak from the Queen Rania Foundation, and ElGooru, a leading regional edtech startup.The discussion highlighted education, culture, and innovation as core pillars of global entrepreneurship, shaping globally minded founders and fostering resilient, sustainable ecosystems across the Arab world. As part of its youth-focused initiatives, Ibtechar conducted two interactive workshops aimed at nurturing artificial intelligence (AI) literacy, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking among middle school, high school, and university students.The first workshop, titled ‘From Problem to Prototype: Introduction to Design Thinking’, gathered over 80 high school and university students, introducing them to the core principles of design thinking through a fast-paced, interactive challenge.The second workshop on ‘Smart Startups/AI-Augmented Entrepreneur: Using AI to Launch and Run Your Business’ was conducted by AI Crafters, Ibtechar’s strategic partner, a company dedicated to the advancement, adoption and use of artificial intelligence in professional environments.Throughout Rowad 2025, Ibtechar’s booth served as a dynamic hub for exchange and innovation, attracting visitors from various sectors and industries. Visitors explored the company’s diverse portfolio of programmes that bridge strategy and implementation and demonstrate how Ibtechar empowers institutions with tailored, agile capacity to deliver impactful progress and create lasting national value.

The Ministry of Municipality's Public Parks Department, in co-operation with Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation, launched the 11th edition of the "Farm Your Country" programme, with the participation of 47 schools at various educational levels, including one school for persons with disabilities.The programme comes within the framework of national efforts to enhance the partnership between the public and private sectors in raising agricultural awareness and instilling in students a culture of planting from an early age, thus, strengthening this trend towards a green and sustainable environment in the State of Qatar.In a statement, the Public Parks Department said that planting operations have been completed in 25 schools, adding that the coming weeks will see such operations carried out in the remaining schools, followed by checkups and plant care stages taking place until the harvest season, held under the supervision of the department's technical team.The department said that this is one of the most important community programmes that it implements in partnership with Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation, with its significance stemming from its contribution to instilling in students a sense of responsibility, respect for the environment, and teamwork, in addition to encouraging home farming and enhancing food security in the country.

Qatar’s Ministry of Social Development and Family has launched an initiative aimed at strengthening ethical values within Qatari families and promoting value-based upbringing.The initiative, coinciding with the celebration of World Children’s Day, was unveiled by Sustainable Development Goals Ambassador Layan al-Hajri. Also attending were Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs, Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim al-Thani and Director of the Museum of Islamic Art, Shaikha al-Nassr.The endeavour seeks to support families in instilling core values such as honesty, respect, co-operation and diligence through educational activities and community partnerships.During the event, the ministry introduced an Ethical Family Charter as a new educational reference and announced a 30-Day Morality Challenge, which encourages children to practise a daily value through digital tools and games tailored to the Qatari context.A series of interactive workshops for children was also held at the Museum of Islamic Art, including art sessions, values-themed activities and child-rights games, with wide participation from families.Assistant Director of the Family Development Department, Nouf al-Abdullah, said the initiative supports the ministry’s strategy to reinforce moral identity rooted in Islamic principles.Meanwhile, SDG Ambassador al-Hajri and Executive Director of the SDG Ambassadors Center, Iman al-Obaidli, both highlighted the role of youth-led initiatives in strengthening community values and supporting family cohesion.The event concluded with families and children signing the Ethical Family Charter, with the ministry reaffirming its commitment to supporting programmes that promote family and childhood development.

His Excellency the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie inaugurated Monday the student project exhibition held as part of the fourth edition of Sustainable Development Day organised by Lusail University. His Excellency the minister, accompanied by His Excellency the Chairman of Board of Trustees of Lusail University Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri, toured the exhibition, where he viewed a number of student innovations in the fields of renewable energy, resource management, and environmental conservation. This year’s event was held with the participation of more than 200 students from various academic programs, confirming the university’s commitment to supporting national efforts in the field of sustainability, promoting environmental awareness among students, and enabling them to contribute to initiatives that support the achievement of Qatar National Vision 2030. **media[383116]** During the event, students presented initiatives that reflected an advanced awareness of sustainability issues. Then they applied their theoretical knowledge in real-world projects that support the implementation of the national strategy for the environment and climate change. Dean of the College of Education and Arts at Lusail University Professor Dr Ramzi Naim Nasser said that the university celebrates Sustainable Development Day annually based on its firm commitment to the values ​​of sustainability in education and in its various academic initiatives and programs. He explained that since its establishment, Lusail University has adopted a specialised university course in sustainability, which is taught to all students, and forms a framework for consolidating their environmental, social and economic awareness. He stressed that sustainability at the university is not just a theoretical concept, but real practice that they are keen to instil in all activities. Dr Nasser noted that the exhibition of student projects saw the participation of 50-60 students who presented innovative projects and practical solutions in various fields. He pointed out that some of the innovations show a remarkable development in creative thinking, including a smart helmet for construction workers equipped with heat sensors and a GPS tracking system, which is a model that reflects the growing skills of students and their ability to create applicable solutions. The Dean of the College of Education and Arts pointed out that the participating projects are subject to academic evaluation within the coursework, and a specialised judging committee evaluates them and selects three winning projects in recognition of outstanding student efforts. He stressed that the issue of sustainability is no longer a luxury as was previously thought, noting that UN reports show that many of the Sustainable Development Goals need more efforts to be achieved, hence the importance of instilling this awareness among students from an early stage. Dr Nasser explained that the Sustainable Development Day event coincides with Qatar Sustainability Week, noting the university’s keenness to participate annually in this national event in line with its role in spreading and promoting a culture of sustainability among young people. Sustainable Development Day also included a number of awareness activities, student presentations and environmental competitions, in addition to awarding the best projects and outstanding presentations, in a step that reflects the university’s keenness to promote the spirit of creativity and encourage initiatives that support awareness and consolidate the values ​​of community participation.

The 10th edition of Qatar Sustainability Week (QSW) has concluded with a record-breaking over 700 events, activations, and initiatives, and thousands of participants joining forces to promote sustainable living and environmental awareness across the country.Organised by Earthna Centre for a Sustainable Future, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), this year’s milestone edition marked a decade of collective climate action, bringing together organisations, businesses, and individuals to promote sustainability across Qatar.Engineer Ahmed Mohammed al-Sada, Assistant Undersecretary for Climate Change Affairs at the MoECC, affirmed that QSW 2025 played a significant role in enhancing joint environmental work among various governmental and private entities and civil society institutions through events and initiatives focused on raising awareness and promoting responsible practices toward the environment.He confirmed that the MoECC will invest the outcomes of this week in supporting initiatives that contribute to reducing environmental impacts and enhancing the management of natural resources, noting that the ministry continues its commitment to providing a more sustainable environment for current and future generations.Al-Sada emphasised the ministry’s keenness to continue co-operation with various sectors in the country to ensure the expansion of environmental initiatives and the development of climate action mechanisms in line with the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, contributing to the achievement of the Qatar National Vision 2030 goals.Dr Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, executive director of Earthna, said: “Qatar Sustainability Week 2025 stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a nation unites behind a shared goal. As we mark a decade of progress, we are proud of the collective effort that continues to shape Qatar’s sustainable future and inspire positive change at every level of society.”As Earthna looks ahead to 2026, plans are already underway to expand the programme’s reach and deepen its impact across schools, communities, and the private sector.

Qatar Sunday kicked off the 2025/26 cruise season at the Old Doha Port, welcoming MSC Euribia, operated by MSC Cruises, carrying 5,000 passengers and a crew of 1,676 members. One of the newest and largest vessels in the MSC fleet, MSC Euribia spans 331m in length and 43m in width, accommodating up to 6,327 guests and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) for cleaner, more sustainable voyages, Mwani Qatar said in its social medial handle X. Throughout the season, which runs until May 2026, the ship will make 22 scheduled calls at The Terminal, managed by Mwani Qatar — reaffirming Qatar's growing prominence as a premier destination on the global cruise tourism map. Last week, a coordination meeting was held as part of the preparations for 2025/26 cruise season, bringing together stakeholders, agents, and tour operators to discuss operational plans and coordination efforts to ensure a successful season and an exceptional visitor experience. Qatar has proven to be one of the most sought after luxury cruise destinations in the Arabian Gulf’s winter cruise season. To support the tremendous growth of the industry, Mwani Qatar plays a key role in the redevelopment of the port and its facilities. Doha port provides a wide range of passenger facilities, including seamless immigration, customs, foreign exchange, taxi and bus stands, city bus tours as well as Qatar Duty Free, cafe, waiting areas for cruise passengers and staff. It also features various tourist information services offered by Qatar Tourism. Relevant Mwani Qatar marine services within the port are offered to the vessels calling at Doha Port, ensuring safe and efficient arrival and departure. Mwani Qatar works closely with Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Interior to develop the cruise industry which has seen a remarkable increase in the passenger arrivals over the years. Qatar's 2024/25 cruise season had welcomed more than 396,000 visitors aboard 87 cruise ships, marking a 5% jump in visitors and a 19% rise in vessel calls against the previous season. Doha Port’s cruise terminal is strategically located minutes away from key attractions such as the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif, optimising the visitor experience by allowing cruise passengers to make the most of their time in the city. Qatar Tourism plans to strengthen its collaborations with more international cruise lines, which is vital for driving further growth in Qatar’s tourism sector and contributing to Qatar’s economic diversification efforts. "Doha has become a prominent cruise destination with varied tourism experiences offered to visitors. From its debut in October 2023 to its grand finale in April 2024, this cruise season has exceeded all expectations breaking the records of visitors and cruise ships from previous seasons. The Grand Cruise Terminal symbolising Qatar's commitment to excellence” Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism had said. Qatar is gaining popularity as a world-class cruise destination in the region as it showcased exceptional tourism capabilities, especially after hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In this regard, efforts are currently underway to attract more cruise lines and travelers in the upcoming seasons.