Latest news with #QEF
Qatar Tribune
25-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
QFZ, Samsung C&T to launch green, digital infra projects
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Samsung C&T Corporation signed a landmark strategic agreement, reaffirming their long-term partnership on a series of high-impact, sustainability-driven, and innovation-led projects within Qatar's Free Zones. The agreement ushers in a new phase of execution across green and sustainable investments in key sectors in the State of Qatar and the region. The agreement signing was witnessed by Minister of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of Qatar Free Zones Authority HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani and Ambassador of Korea to Qatar HE Yun Hyunsoo. The agreement was signed by Qatar Free Zones Authority CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani and Samsung C&T Corporation CEO President and CEO Se Chul Oh at the Business Innovation Park in Ras Bufontas Free Zone on the sidelines of his visit and participation at Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025. The signing was also attended by senior dignitaries from Qatari government entities, high-ranking officials from both parties, and representatives from public and private sector stakeholders. The event was followed by a reception celebrating the two parties' shared ambition to shape the future of sustainable investment in Qatar and the wider region. Under the agreement, QFZ and Samsung C&T will collaborate on five transformative projects, which include a Competency Center in Solar Technologies, a 285 MW ground solar farm, an off-grid rooftop solar energy solutions, a low-carbon bioproducts plant and a cutting-edge digital infrastructure project. These projects reflect the shared commitment of both parties to advancing climate-conscious development while delivering long-term economic value through localisation, job creation, and technology transfer. The projects are expected to generate significant employment opportunities across engineering, clean technology, and data services. The solar competency center will serve as a distribution hub and launchpad for the region's most ambitious solar initiatives, backed by international engineering expertise. Meanwhile, the green energy initiatives, including the solar farm and rooftop systems, will power QFZ's investor ecosystem and contribute to Qatar's growing reputation as a regional sustainability leader. The low-carbon plant will produce next-generation bioproducts, while the advanced digital infrastructure project will support the digital transformation of businesses in Qatar and across the region. Sheikh Mohammed said, 'This agreement with Samsung C&T is a defining moment in our mission to transform Qatar into a global platform for sustainable innovation and advanced technologies. It exemplifies how strategic partnerships can unlock long-term value across economic, environmental, and societal dimensions, while directly contributing to the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030. Through initiatives spanning green energy, digital infrastructure, and bio-industrial solutions, we are creating the foundations of a resilient, diversified economy powered by knowledge, clean technology, and global collaboration. Qatar Free Zones Authority is proud to lead this transformation, enabling international pioneers like Samsung C&T to shape the industries of tomorrow from the heart of Qatar.' Se Chul Oh said, 'It is a privilege to be part of today's momentous occasion, marking the signing of this important agreement with Qatar Free Zones Authority. Samsung C&T Corporation has been actively engaged in the Qatari market for many years, where we have successfully delivered some of the country's most significant projects in power, infrastructure, and renewable energy. We look forward to strengthening our collaboration with Qatar Free Zones Authority across a diverse range of sectors. In particular, we are enthusiastic about the opportunity to work together on clean energy initiatives, which are critical to advancing the global shift toward sustainability and supporting the green transformation currently reshaping industries worldwide.' With facilities planned across both Ras Bufontas and Umm Alhoul Free Zones, the partnership will leverage Qatar's strategic connectivity and robust infrastructure to serve both local and regional markets. By aligning sustainability with innovation, and ambition with execution, this agreement cements Qatar's Free Zones position as a preferred destination for high-value, impact-driven global partnerships.
ILoveQatar.net
22-05-2025
- Business
- ILoveQatar.net
Qatar's tourism sector hits QR 55 Billion in 2024, making up 8% of GDP
H.E. Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, participated in a high-level panel discussion titled 'Tourism in Focus' at the fifth edition of the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025. The session, moderated by Bloomberg Television anchor Joumanna Bercetche, featured Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman and CEO of Accor, and explored key themes shaping the future of global tourism, including luxury and sustainability, economic resilience, health tourism, and emerging market trends. During the session, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, announced that the tourism sector contributed QR 55 billion to the national GDP in 2024, representing 8% of total economic output — a 14% increase over 2023. He assured that Qatar is well on track to achieving its Tourism Strategy 2030 goal of contributing 12% to GDP, highlighting the sector's increasing importance in the nation's broader economic diversification strategy. In 2024, international visitor arrivals reached 5 million, a 25% year-on-year increase, with in-destination spend totaling nearly QR 40 billion. The hospitality sector also achieved a key milestone, recording 10 million room nights sold during the year. As part of the panel, the Chairman highlighted how global travel demand is shifting towards lifestyle-driven and purpose-led experiences, such as wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and luxury nature-based getaways. He noted that travellers are increasingly prioritising experiences, such as bespoke accommodation, culinary exploration, and curated cultural activities, over traditional material spending. Qatar's strategy aligns with these trends, focusing on six high-potential demand spaces and delivering 54 strategic projects across product development, regulation, and visitor experience enhancement. The Chairman also discussed the expanding opportunities in regional collaboration, health tourism, and investment. He highlighted joint initiatives with Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi, enhanced air connectivity with China, and Qatar's integrated health and wellness offerings. He also outlined major development projects such as the QR 20 billion Simaisma coastal destination and ongoing expansions at Hamad International Airport, reinforcing Qatar's positioning as a premium, sustainable, and competitive global destination. Held under the theme 'The Road to 2030: Transforming the Global Economy,' the Qatar Economic Forum 2025 convened global leaders to examine key topics including geopolitics, technology, energy security, investment, and the future of sports and entertainment.
Qatar Tribune
21-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar Central Bank governor meets several CEOs on sidelines of QEF 2025
DOHA: Qatar Central Bank Governor Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani has held separate talks with several business leaders on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF) 2025. He met with CEO of Ashmore Group Mark Coombs, Chairman and CEO of MSCI Henry Fernandez; and Global Head of Asset and Wealth Management at Goldman Sachs Marc Nachmann. The meetings discussed the latest developments in global finance and investment, along with other related topics.
Qatar Living
21-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Living
USQBC and The Business Year Renew Strategic Partnership to Spotlight Qatar's Evolving Investment Landscape
On May 20, 2025, the US-Qatar Business Council (USQBC), Doha, and The Business Year (TBY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF), reaffirming their strategic collaboration to spotlight Qatar's economic resilience and regional leadership in trade, innovation, and private-sector development. Signed by Sheikha Mayes H. Al-Thani, Managing Director of USQBC Doha, and Vanessa Rameix, Regional Director of The Business Year (TBY), the agreement formalizes a strategic partnership around The Business Year: Qatar 2026, a flagship investment report spotlighting Qatar's key sectors, including finance, energy, healthcare, technology, and logistics. The publication will feature insights from leading Qatari and American private-sector stakeholders, emphasizing the strength of bilateral cooperation and shared economic ambition. Through this collaboration, USQBC reinforces its leadership in advancing economic diplomacy and private sector engagement, while contributing to a research-driven narrative that positions Qatar as a stable, forward-looking hub for regional and global investment. Reflecting on the partnership, Sheikha Mayes commented: 'At USQBC, we are committed to shaping narratives that reflect the depth and potential of the U.S.-Qatar economic relationship. This partnership with The Business Year is an opportunity to amplify the voices of our private sector, showcase Qatar's evolving investment landscape, and strengthen the bridge between our two business communities through meaningful, data-driven storytelling.' Ms. Rameix added: 'Our previous partnerships with USQBC have been incredibly successful in highlighting the potential of the Qatari market to international investors. This renewal is a chance to continue that momentum and keep showcasing the opportunities in Qatar, through the voices of the international companies already succeeding here. With USQBC's strong focus on partnerships and bilateral support, we're excited to keep working together to drive real results and further establish Qatar as a key destination for global business.' The MoU marks the continuation of a shared mission to foster investor confidence, promote economic diversification, and position Qatar as a resilient and attractive base for international business in the Middle East. --- Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. Instagram - @qatarliving X - @qatarliving Facebook - Qatar Living YouTube - qatarlivingofficial
Qatar Tribune
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Qatar Tribune
QEF 2025: Elon Musk shares his vision for AI, electric vehicles
QNA DOHA CEO of Tesla and SpaceX Elon Musk called for regulatory reforms in the automotive and artificial intelligence industries to align with advancements in these rapidly evolving fields. Speaking remotely at the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF), Musk reaffirmed his commitment to leading Tesla for the next five years, addressing concerns from investors who questioned his long-term dedication to the company. He clarified that his advisory role to US President Donald Trump through the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, does not constitute a conflict of interest, stating that his role is purely consultative and does not involve decision-making authority. He also praised the departmentâ€s recent successes and progress. Musk discussed the future of artificial intelligence and electric vehicles, emphasizing how modern technology is set to reshape the world. He also touched on the Starlink satellite internet service and its future outlook. Responding to questions about his future involvement in political campaign financing, Musk stated that he plans to spend less on campaigns in the future, but if he sees a need for political spending, he will do so.
