Ooredoo launches ‘Hala Digital' to democratise digital access for all
Tribune News Network
Doha
Ooredoo has unveiled Hala Digital, a new Progressive Web App (PWA) designed to make digital self-care more accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly for everyone.
As a lighter, faster alternative to traditional USSD services, Hala Digital requires no data usage and no app downloads, ensuring that even users with limited resources can seamlessly connect and manage their mobile experience.
This innovative platform empowers customers to:
•Effortlessly track their usage and balances
•Discover personalised offers through a smart recommendation engine
•Instantly activate vouchers and data bundles
Enjoy free entertainment and music through a groundbreaking partnership with Olive Suno Radio, featuring four live stations in Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Nepali, Sinhala, and more – celebrating the region's cultural diversity
Commenting on the launch, Mustafa Peracha, Ooredoo's Chief Consumer Officer, stated: 'At Ooredoo, our mission is to democratise digital access and ensure that everyone benefits from the digital revolution. Hala Digital is a major step forward in bridging the digital divide, making vital services available in a simple, relevant, and inclusive format for all.'
As Qatar moves toward a fully digital economy, solutions like Hala Digital are crucial for enabling every individual to participate in the country's digital transformation.
By providing a lightweight, user-friendly gateway to digital services, Ooredoo is ensuring that no one is left behind on the journey to digital inclusion.
Hala Digital is now available to all Ooredoo prepaid customers and can be accessed through their phones by scanning the QR CODE.
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Qatar Tribune
a day ago
- Qatar Tribune
Ooredoo launches ‘Hala Digital' to democratise digital access for all
Tribune News Network Doha Ooredoo has unveiled Hala Digital, a new Progressive Web App (PWA) designed to make digital self-care more accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly for everyone. As a lighter, faster alternative to traditional USSD services, Hala Digital requires no data usage and no app downloads, ensuring that even users with limited resources can seamlessly connect and manage their mobile experience. This innovative platform empowers customers to: •Effortlessly track their usage and balances •Discover personalised offers through a smart recommendation engine •Instantly activate vouchers and data bundles Enjoy free entertainment and music through a groundbreaking partnership with Olive Suno Radio, featuring four live stations in Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Nepali, Sinhala, and more – celebrating the region's cultural diversity Commenting on the launch, Mustafa Peracha, Ooredoo's Chief Consumer Officer, stated: 'At Ooredoo, our mission is to democratise digital access and ensure that everyone benefits from the digital revolution. Hala Digital is a major step forward in bridging the digital divide, making vital services available in a simple, relevant, and inclusive format for all.' As Qatar moves toward a fully digital economy, solutions like Hala Digital are crucial for enabling every individual to participate in the country's digital transformation. By providing a lightweight, user-friendly gateway to digital services, Ooredoo is ensuring that no one is left behind on the journey to digital inclusion. Hala Digital is now available to all Ooredoo prepaid customers and can be accessed through their phones by scanning the QR CODE.
Qatar Tribune
26-05-2025
- Qatar Tribune
In India's congested cities, delivery apps cash in
Agencies In India's sprawling financial hub of Mumbai armies of 'dabbawalas' have for decades crisscrossed the city by foot and bicycle, delivering home-cooked food to office workers who are keen to avoid the searing heat and traffic-snarled streets. Now, across the country, young entrepreneurs are taking that tradition to the next level with the explosion of shopping apps that allow customers to get hold of not only food and drink but anything else from clothes to iPhones — within minutes. The so-called quick commerce apps are redefining the retail game, not only disrupting e-commerce titans such as Amazon with their speed and efficiency but also long-established 'mom and pop' stores which are no longer convenient enough. At a warehouse managed by online grocer BigBasket in central Mumbai, employees work with military-like precision to pull off deliveries in just 10 minutes. These warehouses are known within the industry as 'dark stores', a reference to being closed off to customers. When a new order is received, a worker leaps into action, darting through aisles filled with everything from fizzy drinks to vegetables, packing a bag of groceries handed to a motorbike rider — the modern-day 'dabbawala', Hindi for 'lunchbox man'. Local tech companies have poured in billions to set up these nifty logistical networks across big cities, fuelling India's rapid shopping industry. For millions of customers, it's an easy way to avoid shopping in the sweltering heat — visiting multiple food stalls — and spending hours navigating the country's notorious traffic jams. Growth has been 'very strong', BigBasket co-founder Vipul Parekh told AFP, pointing to forecasts that indicate a compounded annual growth rate of more than 60 percent over the next two to three years. 'When you talk of a large industry transforming and growing at this pace, that is unprecedented,' he said. Delivery apps such as Getir or Jokr have faltered in Europe and the United States in recent years, as pandemic-induced demand wore off and rising inflation pinched customer wallets. But sales in India have soared from $100 million in 2020 to an estimated $6 billion in 2024, according to projections by market analysis firm Datum Intelligence. This could hit $40 billion by the end of the decade, according to investment bank JM Financial. Companies say India's quick commerce's growth is partly down to the sheer scale of people living in tight-packed cities within a roughly two kilometer (one mile) radius of a 'dark store', said Parekh. 'The revenue potential in that catchment is very high,' he said. A lack of many traditional supermarket grocery chains in India aid the business model, he said. Rinish Ravindra, a regular user, admits that they make him 'lazy', but argues that the convenience is unbeatable. 'I just press a bunch of keys and all of it comes delivered to home,' says the 32-year-old, who works in Mumbai's film industry. Local players have made rapid progress but competition is heating up. Amazon is getting its act together, along with Walmart-owned Flipkart and billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries as they belatedly roll out rapid delivery offerings. 'One of the problems with e-commerce players like Amazon is that, until now, they've relied on these big fulfilment centers that sit on the outside or outskirts of cities,' said Satish Meena of Datum Intelligence. 'These aren't suited for rapid delivery, which is why they now need to invest to build their own dark store networks within urban areas.' However, a more crowded industry threatens the sustainability of the sector that has already seen one prominent start-up go bust. 'My sense is that the market is good enough for two to three players,' said Rahul Malhotra of Bernstein, a research firm, adding that the total addressable market may be worth around $50-$60 billion. 'Some of the early movers, with hyperlocal capabilities obviously, have an advantage here.' The sector could also face challenges from thousands of small, family-run shops. The Confederation of All India Traders, a leading industry group that claims to represent over 90 million small businesses, has called for 'a nationwide movement' against newer platforms. Its president likened quick commerce to being a 'modern-day East India Company', a reference to the rapacious British power that began in the 17th century to seize swathes of India, preceding colonial rule. For now, customers are voting with their wallets. 'When I think of groceries I think, 'I can just order it online',' said Ravindra.
Qatar Tribune
26-05-2025
- Qatar Tribune
Lusail University celebrates its second graduation ceremony
Khaled Al Hameidi Doha In a celebration that merged pride, ambition, and national vision, Lusail University marked a significant milestone yesterday with the graduation of its second cohort of students. The grand ceremony took place at the Qatar National Convention Centre, drawing a distinguished audience of state leaders, dignitaries, and families, all gathered to honour a new generation of graduates ready to contribute to Qatar's knowledge-based future. Gracing the event were prominent officials including Minister of Education and Higher Education, Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater; Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and CEO of QatarEnergy, His Excellency Eng. Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi; Minister of Environment and Climate Change, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie; Minister of Labour, His Excellency Dr Ali bin Samikh Al Marri; and Chairman of Lusail University's Board of Trustees Dr Ali bin Fetais Al Marri. Members of the Board, senior government officials, and members of Qatar's academic community were also present. A vision realised, a mission renewed In his keynote address, Dr Nitham Hindi, president of Lusail University, described the moment as a culmination of both personal and institutional journeys marked by resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. 'Today is not just a celebration of academic achievement,' he said. 'It is a testament to Lusail University's unwavering commitment to innovation, intellectual growth, and its pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders.' Dr Hindi emphasized that the university is steadfast in aligning its growth with Qatar's National Vision 2030. He highlighted a year of accomplishments, including the launch of new academic programs, expansion of local and international partnerships, and tangible progress in research and student-led initiatives across cultural, scientific, and athletic fields. 'As the first national private university in Qatar, Lusail has not only met but exceeded expectations,' Dr Hindi stated. 'We are proud to have fulfilled over 95% of our strategic plan for 2021–2025—a remarkable feat made possible by the tireless efforts of our academic and administrative teams.' Charting the future: 2025–2030 strategic vision Looking forward, Dr. Hindi unveiled the university's new strategic roadmap for the period 2025–2030, recently approved by the Board of Trustees. This future-oriented plan focuses on enhancing innovation, integrating cutting-edge digital learning technologies, expanding academic offerings aligned with evolving market needs, and cultivating a vibrant environment for research and academic exploration. Central to the new strategy is the strengthening of collaborative efforts across both public and private sectors. Dr. Hindi stressed the importance of these partnerships in propelling Lusail University's vision of becoming a driver of sustainable development and a hub of academic excellence in the region. 'As we enter this new phase, our mission remains clear—to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in their disciplines but also equipped with the creativity, agility, and global mindset to thrive in a rapidly changing world,' he said. Voices of the graduates: pride, purpose, and possibility Representing the graduating class of 2025, students Mohammed Al Attiyah and Noura Al Nuaimi delivered heartfelt speeches that captured the spirit of their shared journey. Speaking with confidence and gratitude, Al Attiyah reflected on the transformative power of their academic experience. 'Today, we stand at the threshold of a new chapter, armed with knowledge, driven by ambition, and guided by purpose,' he said. 'Our journey at Lusail University was not without challenges, but through persistence and unity, we have reached this historic moment of celebration.' Al Nuaimi echoed the sentiment, expressing deep appreciation for the faculty and staff whose dedication helped shape the students' academic paths. 'Being part of the second graduating cohort of this promising institution is a great honour,' she said. 'Here, we have not only learned facts and theories, but values of perseverance, innovation, and lifelong learning.' Both graduates emphasized that many of their peers are pursuing postgraduate studies both in Qatar and abroad, while others are stepping directly into the workforce—eager to contribute to Qatar's development across sectors. 'This graduation is not the end,' Al Attiyah said. 'It is the beginning of our contribution to society and our commitment to excellence.' A celebration of achievements and community The ceremony featured the awarding of degrees across the university's colleges—Education, Arts, Business and Commerce, and Law—alongside the conferring of degrees to the university's first cohort of master's graduates. Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of graduates from Sorbonne University in Qatar, underscoring Lusail University's spirit of academic collaboration. In addition to student recognitions, the event included musical and cultural performances, tributes to faculty members, and the honouring of organizations and institutions that have supported Lusail University students throughout their academic journey. These acknowledgments reflected the collective effort and community investment that have propelled the university forward. Lusail: A name rooted in aspiration Since its inception, Lusail University has positioned itself as a transformative force in Qatar's educational landscape. With a mission to offer quality education grounded in values and geared toward innovation, the university continues to expand its academic and cultural footprint. The ceremony was more than a commencement—it was a powerful affirmation of Lusail University's role in preparing Qatar's youth for leadership in the fields of law, business, education, and beyond. As the graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, applause echoed not just in the hall but across a nation that sees in them the promise of a brighter, more dynamic future. A future shaped by knowledge Lusail University's second graduation ceremony was a resounding reminder that education is not merely a process but a catalyst for national progress. With each student who steps out of its classrooms, the university affirms its purpose: to educate, to inspire, and to lead. In the words of Dr Hindi: 'We are not only celebrating what has been achieved, but what is yet to come. These graduates are the architects of our future, and we are proud to have been part of their journey.'
