Latest news with #QatarNationalDevelopmentStrategy
Arab News
04-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Qatar welcomes over 1.5m international visitors in Q1 2025
RIYADH: Qatar received more than 1.5 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, according to newly released figures, as the country continues to push forward with its comprehensive tourism strategy anchored in major events, strategic partnerships, and diverse travel offerings. While slightly below the 1.6 million visitors recorded during the same period in 2024, the latest numbers highlight Qatar's sustained momentum in attracting global travelers. Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council countries accounted for 36 percent of arrivals, followed by Europe at 28 percent and Asia and Oceania at 20 percent, underscoring Qatar's growing appeal across varied markets. The increase aligns with the nation's long-term objective of drawing six million visitors annually by 2030. It also coincides with the third phase of the Qatar National Development Strategy (2024–2030), launched in January 2024, which designates tourism as a critical pillar in the country's economic diversification agenda. 'The achievements of the first quarter of 2025 demonstrate some of the planned outputs of our long-term approach to tourism development,' said Saad Bin Ali Al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism and chair of the board of directors of Visit Qatar. 'Part of the development transcends into deepening collaboration across local, regional and international markets and continue to diversify source markets, enhance visitor experiences, and reinforce Qatar's position as a dynamic, year-round destination. We are excited to have welcomed 1.5M in Q1 and look forward to welcoming more guests throughout this year,' he added. Qatar's multi-access strategy also appears to be paying off. Of the total visitors, 51 percent arrived by air, 34 percent by land, and 15 percent by sea. During the Eid Al-Fitr holidays, the country recorded its highest holiday visitor count in three years, attracting 214,000 travelers over an eight-day period — a 26 percent increase from 2024. Nearly half (49 percent) of those visitors came from GCC countries, representing an 18 percent year-on-year rise. Hotel occupancy during this period reached 77 percent, up from 67 percent the previous year. The hospitality industry reported robust performance overall in Q1, with an average hotel occupancy rate of 71 percent and 2.6 million room nights sold. Key drivers included major international events such as Web Summit Qatar, the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition, and the Qatar International Food Festival. Reinforcing its position as a regional tourism hub, Qatar also hosted the 51st UN Tourism Regional Committee for the Middle East. The gathering focused on leveraging the country's strengths in sports, innovation, and infrastructure to promote sustainable tourism across the region. Looking ahead, Qatar is set to continue its tourism push with a strong slate of upcoming events. The country will annually host the T100 Triathlon World Championship Final in partnership with the Professional Triathletes Organization through 2030. Additional highlights include the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, the Visit Qatar E1 Grand Prix of Electric Boats, and a series of high-profile festivals and sports events, all aimed at enriching Qatar's tourism offerings and supporting its continued growth.
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
HBKU co-hosts the 14th Materials Science and Engineering Symposium 2025
Doha – Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) partnered with Qatar University (QU) and Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) to organize the Annual Materials Science and Engineering Symposium (MSES-2025) with generous support from Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO). Taking place on April 14, the Symposium brought together over 190 participants, including national and international experts from academia, research institutes, industry, government entities, as well as graduate and undergraduate students, for a day of discussions centered on the recent technological advancement in the development and applications of resilient and sustainable materials. Held under the theme "Advancing Resilient and Sustainable Materials through Technological Innovation" the event also highlighted materials technologies that contribute to economic diversification in alignment with the third Qatar National Development Strategy. This edition of the Symposium featured keynote and invited presentations, industry showcases, undergraduate and graduate research presentations, and a panel discussion on synergizing collaboration among all stakeholders to advance the field of sustainable and resilient materials. The Symposium began with introductory remarks delivered by Dr. Eyad Masad, Vice President for Research, HBKU, Professor Aiman Erbad, Vice President of Research and Graduate Studies, QU, and Dr. Patrick Linke, Executive Associate Dean, TAMUQ. These were followed by keynote presentations, innovation challenges for undergraduate and postgraduate researchers, a technology showcase of relevant innovations by Qatari companies, and a panel discussion. The Symposium concluded with an open discussion among participants, closing expert remarks, and an award ceremony. Commenting on the Symposium, Dr. Mounir Hamdi, Dean, CSE, remarked: 'For the past 15 years, this event has consistently attracted high-caliber academics, students, and industry professionals to discuss topics vital to the advancement of the research and development in the areas of material science and sustainability in the State of Qatar and beyond. This was a day filled with insightful discussions and overviews of innovative projects highlighting the synergy between resilience and sustainability. We're grateful to our colleagues at QU and TAMUQ for their support in co-organizing and delivering this Symposium.' HBKU looks forward to organizing and hosting future editions of the Annual Materials Science and Engineering Symposium. About Hamad Bin Khalifa University Innovating Today, Shaping Tomorrow. Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), was founded in 2010 as a research-intensive university that acts as a catalyst for transformative change in Qatar and the region while having global impact. Located in Education City, HBKU is committed to building and cultivating human capacity through an enriching academic experience, innovative ecosystem, and unique partnerships. HBKU delivers multidisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs through its colleges, and provides opportunities for research and scholarship through its institutes and centers. For more information about HBKU, visit About the College of Science and Engineering One of the longest established colleges at HBKU, the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) graduates the highest number of students and offers the largest portfolio of degree programs within the University. HBKU's CSE is home to the supplementary Division of Engineering Management and Decision Sciences, Division of Sustainable Development, and the Division of Information and Computing Technology, which together form a unique, multidisciplinary education and research environment of the highest caliber. For more information about HBKU's CSE, visit
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
QRDI Council sets agenda for Web Summit Qatar 2025
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council has unveiled an exciting and comprehensive agenda for the upcoming Web Summit Qatar, set to take place from February 23 to 26, 2025. As both a strategic partner of the Web Summit Qatar and the exclusive partner of the Corporate Innovation Summit, QRDI Council has curated a series of dynamic and engaging activities for attendees. Including panel discussions, presentations, and knowledge-sharing sessions hosted at QRDI Council's pavilion, located at E202, designed to provide an immersive, interactive experience. QRDI Council's Secretary-General, Omar Al Ansari, will participate in a key panel discussion on the Innovation Ecosystem. This session will explore the current landscape of science, technology and innovation in Qatar, focusing on how the ecosystem is evolving to drive economic diversification and foster cutting-edge advancements. "The Web Summit Qatar represents a unique opportunity for QRDI Council to showcase Qatar's role as a global hub for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development," said the Secretary General of the QRDI Council, Omar Al Ansari. "We are excited to engage with local and international experts and stakeholders as we continue to shape the future of innovation in Qatar and beyond." The QRDI Council's Innovation Pavilion will feature high-impact sessions, showcasing a dynamic lineup of local and international experts in research, development, and innovation (RDI). Among the distinguished contributors are sessions led by the Qatar Financial Centre, the Qatar Investment Authority and the Indian Embassy in Doha and many more. Additionally, Ogilvy will host a session at the Pavilion titled 'Data is Power: Converting Browsers to Brand Lovers.' QRDI Council is also gearing up to launch and present several key programs aimed at enhancing Qatar's innovation ecosystem and supporting the country's broader economic vision. The Council's pavilion will serve as a platform for thought leadership, knowledge exchange, and networking opportunities where participants can gain insights into how the QRDI Council is committed to building a strong RDI ecosystem in Qatar. About QRDI Council QRDI Council is a government entity with the mission to support research, development and innovation activities as well as to develop RDI talent in Qatar. The Council strives to make Qatar a top destination for global talent and a pioneering research, innovation, and development hub with its motto 'locally empowered, globally connected'. Playing a pivotal role within the Qatar National Development Strategy, the QRDI Council is actively shaping the Innovation component of the Economic Diversification goal. The Council's commitment underlines its unwavering dedication to the Qatar National Vision 2030. QRDI Council aims to make Qatar a global innovation hub and a top choice for R&D centers worldwide, seeing RDI as vital for Qatar's growth and prosperity. To delve deeper into QRDI Council's endeavors and vision:
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
QRDI Council launched an award supporting emerging university innovators in Qatar
Doha: Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council has launched the Rising Innovators Award, an initiative aimed at empowering undergraduate and graduate students and inspiring the next generation of innovators. This new award provides students with a platform to showcase their pioneering ideas and solutions, positioning them for global recognition. The award underscores QRDI Council's commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing emerging talent in Qatar's rapidly evolving research, development, and innovation (RDI) ecosystem. Shortlisted projects will be invited to present their ideas at the QRDI pavilion during the highly anticipated Web Summit Doha 2025. At this prestigious event, they will have the opportunity to deliver live presentations to an esteemed jury composed of industry experts, investors, and QRDI leadership. 'The Rising Innovators Award serves as a critical platform for empowering young innovators to transform their ideas into tangible solutions that address pressing global challenges,' said Nuha Al-Okka, Program Manager at QRDI Council. 'By providing students with the opportunity to present their innovative projects on a global stage, QRDI Council is helping create a culture of creativity and problem-solving, propelling Qatar as a leader in innovation and RDI.' The initial stages of the Rising Innovators Award invited undergraduate and graduate students across Qatar to submit their innovative projects or products through the QRDI portal . Each submission should have included a project overview, its potential impact, and a short video pitch. A distinguished panel of experts from QRDI Council, along with other national entities, will assess the current submissions based on key criteria including innovation, feasibility, scalability, and societal impact. From these evaluations, five standout projects will be shortlisted. The shortlisted projects will be announced on the 18th February 2025. The top three winning projects will receive the Rising Innovators Award, with exciting prizes and invaluable opportunities for collaboration and training to accelerate their solutions toward real-world impact. For additional information please visit this link Ends About QRDI Council QRDI Council is a government entity with the mission to support research, development and innovation activities as well as to develop RDI talent in Qatar. The Council strives to make Qatar a top destination for global talent and a pioneering research, innovation, and development hub with its motto 'locally empowered, globally connected'. Playing a pivotal role within the Qatar National Development Strategy, the QRDI Council is actively shaping the Innovation component of the Economic Diversification goal. The Council's commitment underlines its unwavering dedication to the Qatar National Vision 2030. QRDI Council aims to make Qatar a global innovation hub and a top choice for R&D centers worldwide, seeing RDI as vital for Qatar's growth and prosperity. To delve deeper into QRDI Council's endeavors and vision: Website: Stay Connected: Engage with the QRDI Council on various social media channels to stay updated on the Council's latest activities and achievements. Follow QRDI on - Instagram - LinkedIn - X - YouTube - : Facebook
Zawya
06-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
QRDI Council: Strategic partner at Web Summit Qatar 2025 & Lead Partner of Corporate Innovation Summit
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council is once again serving as a strategic partner with Web Summit Qatar. Building on the successful collaboration from last year, QRDI Council is also continuing its exclusive partnership with the Corporate Innovation Summit. This prestigious, high-level event, held prior to Web Summit Qatar, is bringing together visionary leaders from the world's most forward-thinking corporations for an intimate and engaging experience. The QRDI Council is set to showcase its programs and projects at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), where a diverse group of attendees from various sectors will be gathered. The Council's pavilion, located at E202, is returning as a prominent hub for international entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders. This space will not only highlight cutting-edge initiatives in collaboration with local and international partners but will also serve as a dynamic networking and knowledge-sharing space. Throughout the event, attendees can engage in speaker sessions and discussions encouraging the growth across Qatar's thriving innovation ecosystem. The pavilion will offer a platform for startups, talent, and leaders to exchange insights, form new connections, and build meaningful partnerships that contribute to Qatar's 2030 vision. The Corporate Innovation Summit brings together leaders and innovators at the forefront of tech's biggest companies to confront the issues facing the business world today. The Summit offers a one-day networking experience, featuring masterclasses and opportunities to connect with pioneers shaping the future of enterprise in the 21st century. It can be expected to have roundtables, exclusive networking opportunities, and insights from leaders. Providing attendees with invaluable knowledge driving change across industries, while encouraging meaningful connections with like-minded professionals. Web Summit Qatar, the MENA region's first-ever Web Summit, is set to welcome over 20,000 attendees, including 500+ investors and more than 1,250 startups selected from countries across the globe, representing a wide range of industries. The event will also be featuring exhibitors from more than 150 partners, including QRDI Council, Meta, Qatar Airways, Microsoft, and many more. About QRDI Council QRDI Council is a government entity with the mission to support research, development and innovation (RDI) activities as well as to develop RDI talent in Qatar. The Council strives to make Qatar a top destination for global talent and a pioneering research, innovation, and development hub with its motto 'locally empowered, globally connected'. Playing a pivotal role within the Qatar National Development Strategy, the QRDI Council is actively shaping the Innovation component of the Economic Diversification goal. The Council's commitment underlines its unwavering dedication to the Qatar National Vision 2030. QRDI Council aims to make Qatar a global innovation hub and a top choice for R&D centers worldwide, seeing RDI as vital for Qatar's growth and prosperity. To delve deeper into QRDI Council's endeavors and vision:
