A HOUSE OF PEACE
Qatar 2019 | DIPLOMACY | INSIDE PERSPECTIVE
Since the blockade, the number of factories has increased by 14%, the currency has remained stable, non-oil GDP has grown by 4%, and projects to boost desalination by 40% and electricity by 30% have gotten off the ground.
In the Name of Allah the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. Brothers and sisters, members of the advisory council, it gives me pleasure to meet with you on this auspicious annual occasion of the opening of a new session of your esteemed council. A day marking the beginning of a new legislative term, in which our constitutional institutions will proceed with their responsibilities to reach the goals we have set ourselves, from economic growth to keeping up with the achievements of contemporary human civilization and the formulation of our Qatari Arab and Islamic identity and culture on sound moral and civilized grounds.
Since our last meeting, Qatar's economic invulnerability against external tremors has been boosted, and our self-reliance has increased. The bonds with our allies have become stronger than before, and our relations with most of the world's countries have only deepened. Most importantly, Qataris have become more committed to the ethics they are renowned for; their awareness of the scale of their country's accomplishments; the importance of its national sovereignty; and the independence of our political decisions, under which these accomplishments were achieved, have been deepened.
Brothers, members of the advisory council, the world economy witnessed an economic recovery in 2017 involving most countries and regional and economic blocs, including developed countries, among them the US, the eurozone, and Japan. However, this improvement did not include the Middle East, North Africa, or the GCC countries, including the state of Qatar.
But growth in Qatar was the least affected, and a drop in our hydrocarbon output was coupled with about 4% growth in GDP from other sources, reflecting the role of economic diversification as an important growth component.
Exports rose 18%, leading to a significant improvement in the public budget, trade balance, and current account. The banking system recovered in less than 10 months to its pre-blockade levels, while certain indications even improved. In addition, the Qatar Central Bank regained its reserve level, and the Qatari Riyal has maintained its value and free circulation. The state continued to provide funding for World Cup projects without compromising those required to achieve the National Vision.
It is noteworthy that the number of factories operating in the state has also increased by about 14% since the blockade, and these have managed to achieve a great deal of self-sufficiency in certain food products and consumables. While the role of the private sector was pivotal in achieving these results, we expect from it an even greater readiness for direct investment and bolder initiatives.
Honorable brothers, we are moving at a steady pace to achieve water and food security, and to secure sufficient electrical energy to spur further development. The first phase of the Strategic Water Reservoir Project was inaugurated, and work is proceeding to commission the remaining phases by the end of 2019, with a 155% increase over the current freshwater stock. The Umm Al-Houl station in the Economic Zone has also come onstream and will soon open. This megaproject will increase Qatar's electricity production by about 30% and water desalination by about 40%.
The state has adopted a conservative fiscal policy to reduce spending necessitated by the sharp drop in oil and gas prices since 2014. We had to strike a balance between spending cuts, which are also beneficial to the state and community, and the expenditure requirements dictated by pursuing infrastructure investments and key development projects for the World Cup, which has not been an easy task; however, the signs of success of this policy have started to be seen, by the grace of Almighty God and by virtue of the joint efforts and cooperation among all the government's monetary, fiscal, investment, and economic institutions. Government expenditure this year decreased by around 20% from the previous year, while household spending rose by 4%. This policy is expected to lead to a budget surplus this year, one that will increase in coming years.
Qatar has been able to overcome the impacts of the blockade to a large extent, and economic institutions and financial markets share our optimism. The World Bank expects Qatar's economic growth rate to reach 2.8% in 2018, and rise to around 3% in the following years. Global credit rating agencies have also revised their outlook for Qatar's economy from negative, immediately after the blockade, to stable, thus reflecting their favorable expectations for the financial and economic performance of Qatar in the future. Confidence of the international financial institutions in the future performance of Qatar's economy was evident when Qatar raised USD12 billion in a sovereign bond issue in the international financial markets. The volume of subscription for the Initial Public Offering reached USD53 billion, at moderate interest rates.
Brothers and sisters, Qatar National Vision's goal to achieve economic diversification and reduce dependence on oil and gas have never meant neglecting the oil and gas sector, the basic source of our wealth. Rather, economic diversification aims to achieve growth without being affected by fluctuations in the price of these two sources. But it is necessary to constantly develop them, and preserve the wealth that God has bestowed upon us, for us and for our future generations.
In this context, I would like to refer to certain important developments in this sector. First, preliminary studies have been completed for the development of a major project for the production of LNG from the North Field, whereby Qatar will maintain its position as the world's largest liquefied natural gas exporter for many years to come.
Second, the merger of Qatar Gas Company and Ras Gas Company was carried out so that gas production, liquefaction, and marketing will be led exclusively by one company. The merger was aimed at unifying the distinctive resources and potential of the two companies and creating a unique energy player in terms of scale, efficiency, and centrality, as well as reducing annual operating costs, as the merger saves about QAR2 billion annually.
Third, Qatar Petroleum will become more global by participating in oil and gas exploration and production abroad. Exploration and production agreements were concluded with Oman, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and South Africa in partnership with international and Gulf-based oil companies.
Our oil exports have not been affected by the blockade; the state has been keen to fulfill all its obligations under existing contracts, and has concluded several long-term contracts, the latest of which was with Petro China, whereby Qatar will supply various Chinese districts with about 3.4 million tons of liquefied natural gas annually. This agreement extends until 2040.
Brother members of the advisory council, regarding the Qatar National Vision, the Second National Development Strategy 2018-2022 entered its implementation phase at the beginning of the year. All ministries and government agencies have started to activate the programs of this strategy by continuing to develop infrastructure, promoting economic diversification, developing the private sector, rationally managing our natural resources, protecting the environment, promoting human development by introducing a comprehensive and integrated health care system, implementing a quality education system, and building up an efficient and committed workforce. It is also aimed at perfecting social development through the application of justice and the provision of security for all citizens and residents, while working for cultural enrichment and athletic excellence.
The human being remains the core focus and target of our development plans. High living standard for citizens must be coupled with values, cultural evolution, and care for morality. Otherwise, the possibility of welfare degenerating into a state of social corruption based on an unproductive and constantly resentful culture of consumerism and rising sense of entitlement. To prevent this, parents and teachers must educate children.
A modern society and state and a developed economy have emerged in Qatar. We have transformed the oil and gas economy into an advanced industry. In order to pursue development and achieve sustainability, and avoid slipping into the chasms of the economy of consumerism and the culture of social reliance and indifference, it is necessary to emphasize work and its ethics. Both quantitatively and qualitatively, this means respecting work time, fulfilling promises, and observing honesty in assignment reports. They are based on a sense of duty and responsibility towards society and the state and participating in burden-shouldering. This leads to modesty and an appreciation of the value of work, including that done by others, and the adoption of competence and qualification as a basis for recruitment and promotion, without regard to one's background. Hence the importance of national service and its role in building the youth of this country.
Brothers and sisters, the security and stability of our Gulf and Arab countries will not be achieved by infringing the sovereignty of states, but only through respecting the rules that regulate relations among them, and working to resolve differences through dialogue that takes into account the interests of all parties concerned. History teaches us that crises are destined to pass, but that their mishandling may leave behind long-lasting repercussions. It is unfortunate that the ongoing Gulf crisis revealed the failure of the GCC to attain its goals and meet the aspirations of our Gulf peoples, which weakened its capability to face the challenges and risks, marginalizing its regional and international role. It is hoped that the current crisis will be used to develop the council on sound foundations, including dispute resolution mechanisms, and ensure that the same disputes are not repeated.
Undoubtedly, the deterioration of the pan-Arab situation, including the Gulf, strips the Arab world of its unity and ability to cope with the aggravation of various issues we suffer from in Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and elsewhere. However, Qatar will remain, as it has always been, an active and supportive agent in all exerted efforts to resolve differences and confront the challenges and dangers surrounding the Arab and Islamic Ummas, and in dealing effectively with the issues and problems that threaten international peace and security.
The Palestinian cause remains at the top of our priorities. And in light of the continued Israeli intransigence and lack of will to achieve a comprehensive and just peace in imposing a fait accompli policy, we call upon the international community to put Israel at the forefront of its responsibilities to stop all illegal practices against the Palestinian people, end the unjust siege on the Gaza Strip, halt the settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as other continued violations of the rights of the Palestinian people, and resume peace negotiations in accordance with the principles of international law based on the two-state solution, the right of return, and the right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
In regards to Yemen, we reiterate our concern for the stability, unity and territorial integrity of that nation. We call upon all parties to cease fighting and resort to dialogue to resolve this crisis politically. It has been proven that there is no military solution to Yemen's disputes. On the Syrian question, we have been keen, since the onset of the crisis, on keeping Syria as a united country, and we support all regional and international efforts to ensure the success of a political solution that will bring Syria out of its crisis, and fulfill the aspirations of the Syrian people for freedom, justice, security, and stability, in accordance with the declaration of the Geneva Conference. We also look forward to accelerating the political solution in Libya and call upon all factions and groups of the Libyan people to achieve national reconciliation, build a state and its institutions, put an end to the suffering of the brotherly Libyan people and achieve security and stability. May God bless you with success and may God's Peace, Mercy and Blessings be upon you.
Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Minister , Public Health & Managing Director, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)
The Ministry of Health focuses on collaborating with private hospitals and clinics on a range of initiatives to improve the quality, safety, and effectiveness of care services for patients.
Dr. Abdulla Al Kaabi , Executive Vice Chief Medical Officer, Sidra Medicine
Sidra Medicine has invested across the spectrum of maternity and gynecology-related care concerns in a bid to encourage women to be active participants in their health.
Growing Demand for High-end Medical Care
In line with a social conscious and progressive vision, Qatar is pushing forward with an all-encompassing healthcare improvement initiative using PPPs.
Dr. Mohammed bin Ghanim Al Ali Al Maadheed, Director General, Naufar
Naufar offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program that takes into account patients' physical, mental, social, and societal conditions.
Healthcare stakeholders seek ways to operate more efficiently, lower their unit costs, raise quality levels, and identify ways to optimize the value of their limited resources.
Voices from the Sector: Health and Education
HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir , the State of Qatar
Spotlight Feature
Industrial Renaissance
Qatar is undergoing a minor industrial renaissance thanks to smart legislation, improvements to the service sector, and the resilience of leading economic actors, resulting in newfound self-sufficiency.
Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic , President, Republic of Croatia
With a little investment help from Qatar, Croatian firms can use their expertise to help Qatar procure better food, arms, and energy diversification.
Lenín Boltaire Moreno Garcés , President, Ecuador
In addition to helping Qatar better serve its citizens with disabilities, Ecuador also sees huge opportunities to increase its agro-exports to Qatar.
George Hollingbery , , State for Trade Policy, Department for International Trade (DIT)
"It is an exciting time for both our nations as the UK sets up its independent trade policy for the first time in more the 40 years, and Qatar continues to drive forward its National Vision 2030."
Focus: Qatari-German relations
A Shared Vision
Relations between Doha and Berlin are a springboard to investments that will cement Qatar's status as a knowledge-based economy.
Peter Altmaier , Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Germany
Germany's partnership with Qatar has become extremely important, both at a foreign and security policy level, as well as for the economies of both countries.
Mohammed Ali Al-Mannai , President, Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA)
Despite its small size, Qatar continues to be one of the most progressive telecoms markets in the region, with the sector identified as a key enabler of the country's economic diversification and sustainable growth outside of hydrocarbons.
Sheikh Hamad bin Abdulla Jassim Al-Thani , CEO, Vodafone Qatar
The company's vision is to connect today's ideas with the technologies of tomorrow, becoming people's first choice in telecom and digital services, and be a leading contributor to the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Time to Connect
Qatar has become the first country to officially deploy the game-changing 5G technology, connecting more people than ever.
Ghada Philip El Rassi , Chief Executive Officer Expansion, MEEZA
MEEZA Expansion understands the risks related to digitalization and bases its strategy on the analysis of certified advisors and consultants to position itself as one of the most secured public platforms.
Ahmed Salman Ali Al-Sulaiti , CEO, Qatar National Broadband Network (Qnbn)
Qnbn's investment in infrastructure will enable Qatar to leverage smart solutions and applications to diversify its economy.
Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari, President & CEO, Es'hailSat
The blockade resulted in 95% of local broadcasters shifting to Es'hailSat, pushing the company to operate at full capacity and form new partnerships to launch more satellites.
The Qatar National Vision 2030's objective is to transform Qatar into an advanced society, and tech companies, both local and international, are moving full speed ahead to empower local businesses.
Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari , Minister , Commerce and Industry
Whatever the challenges facing the country, its location, vision, and regulatory framework have kept growth on pace and bolstered its doing business rankings.
Fahad Rashid Al-Kaabi , CEO, Manateq
By encouraging import substitution and getting more SMEs to specialize in adding value, firms like Manateq are ensuring Qatar has a stronger industrial and manufacturing base for years to come.
Well ahead of pace to reach their 2022 targets, financial and industrial firms have increased their productivity, expanded their destinations for foreign trade, and helped spur a renaissance at the level of agricultural production.
Salman Kaldari , Chairman, The Single Window
By streamlining processes, removing duplications, and improving service delivery, the government is doing everything in its power to improve the country's ease of doing business.
Focus: New FDI Law
Sweetening the Deal
With Qatar rebranding itself as a high-tech economy of diversified commercial endeavors, the government is introducing legislation that should have the catalytic effect of making the state a more desirable FDI address.
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani , Chairman, Al Faisal Holding
Having developed a strong industrial base from which to expand, Al Faisal is now looking at a number of export markets with potential.
Omar Hussain Alfardan , CEO, Alfardan Group
The key to the group's longterm success has been its undying commitment to providing an ever-evolving market with precisely what it needs.
Firms across the country are picking up the slack, establishing new partnerships, and diving headfirst into new industries in order to keep the country on pace with the latest developments in industry, health, education, and construction.
Adel Ali Bin Ali , Chairman & President, Ali Bin Ali Holding
With huge growth across multiple sectors, the holding is getting into tourism and hospitality, healthcare and medical research, sports and lifestyle, education, technology, and light industries, among others.
Dafer Hallawa , CEO, Tadmur Holding
From merely six to more than 4,500 employees, Tadmur Holding has evolved through a combination of shrewd micromanagement and broader strategic vision.
Ullattil Achu , GM, Dyarco International Group
In order to capitalize on this historically decisive moment, faster government action and more warehousing and manufacturing facilities are needed.
As the government cuts red tape and accelerates investment-friendly policies, local legal expertise has never been more important.
Mubarak Al Sulaiti , Chairman, Al Sulaiti Law Firm
Al Sulaiti Law Firm strives to be a global firm with a regional outlook and implements this philosophy in its daily practice.
Communiqué: Doing business in Qatar
By the Books
Al Sulaiti Law Firm provides a comprehensive introduction to doing business in Qatar and the most appropriate way to enter the Qatari market.
Sheikh Thani bin Ali Al Thani , Founder, Thani bin Ali Al Thani Law Firm
Leading Qatari legal minds have done a great deal to ease the regulatory burden on firms investing in the country.
Dr. Fabian Engels, Senior Partner Managing Director Qatar, , Roland Berger
German firms are in a unique position to leverage their knowledge, technological mastery, entrepreneurial spirit, and innovative design to help Qatar diversify its broader economy.
International Business Groups
After merely a decade in the country, certain foreign chambers of commerce are helping Qatar build a far more diversified and interconnected economy.
Voices from the Sector: Economy
Abdul Rahman Al Qahtani , CEO, Qatar Tribune
Remaining fair and balanced has become a far greater challenge in the regional media landscape, but is even more urgent than ever.
Qatar's Business Climate and New FDI Law
Qatar's leading industrialists, bankers, and policy makers discuss the importance of diversification, the new FDI law, and other imperatives needed to spur long-term sustainable development.
Sheikh Abdulla Bin Saoud Al-Thani , Governor, Qatar Central Bank
The Central Bank is taking the lead not only in funding exciting new green economy initiatives, but in introducing far more transparency, accountability, and efficiency to general lending practices.
Abdulla M. Al Khalifa , Acting CEO, Qatar National Bank (QNB)
The nation's largest bank has taken a leadership role in funding the most dynamic firms to emerge since the blockade.
Khalid Al-Subeai , Group CEO, Barwa Bank
Barwa Bank is leading sector consolidation through a merger with ibq while creating seamless banking solutions for corporates and individuals alike.
Leading Islamic banks are ramping up their assets, minimizing their exposure to non-performing loans, and competing with the best of secular financial institutions.
Joseph Abraham, CEO, The Commercial Bank of Qatar
Making remittances more efficient and working with multinationals preparing for the World Cup and a bevy of SMEs, the Commercial Bank is widening access to financing at every level.
Focus: Digital banking
How Commercial Bank Became a Leader in Digital Banking in 2018
Commercial Bank is using new technology, methods, and regulations to keep the bank at the forefront of the sector.
Raghavan Seetharaman , Group CEO, Doha Bank
TBY talks to Raghavan Seetharaman, Group CEO of Doha Bank, on the Finance sector.
Abdul Hakeem Mostafawi , CEO, HSBC Qatar
TBY talks to Abdul Hakeem Mostafawi, CEO of HSBC Qatar, on the Finance sector.
Fahad Al Khalifa , Group Chief Executive Officer, Al khalij Commercial Bank "al khaliji"
By employing a Qatar-centric strategy, supporting SMEs, and integrating new technologies in a secure way, Al Khaliji continues to play an invaluable role in uplifting the country's economy.
Ehab Mackeen , Country Manager, Arab Bank
TBY talks to Ehab Mackeen, Country Manager of Arab Bank, on the Finance sector.
Rashid Bin Ali Al Mansoori , CEO, Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE)
As the second-largest stock exchange and the largest emerging market stock exchange in the Middle East, QSE is highly representative of Qatar's economy.
Sheikha Maryam Bint Khalifa Al-Thani, CEO, Qatar Credit Bureau (CB)
TBY talks to, Sheikha Maryam Bint Khalifa Al-Thani, CEO of Qatar Credit Bureau (CB)on the Financesector.
Nasser Bin Rashid Al Misnad , CEO, Damaan Islamic Insurance Company (Beema)
Beema is the leading takaful insurance company in Qatar and it continues to maintain that position by introducing new products, catering to SMES, and focusing on customer satisfaction.
Elias R. Chedid , COO & Deputy CEO, Seib Insurance & Reinsurance
Seib leverages its team's diversity and focuses on superior customer service to maintain its position as one of the largest insurance providers in Qatar.
Jassim Ali A. Al-Moftah , CEO, Doha Insurance Group
Rebranding as a group and shifting all branches and subsidiaries under one roof has provided Doha Insurance Group a platform to expand and evolve as a regional and global player.
Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Subaie , Minister, Municipality and EnvironmenT (MME)
MME strives to support the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the implementation of all state sectorial plans in accordance with a comprehensive framework that guarantees the integration of all sectors.
Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah , CEO, Qatari Diar
Active in 22 countries with a working capital of USD40 billion, Qatari Diar is working closely with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy to ensure the success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Morteza Dalir, Vice President, Hassanesco
Established in 1967, Hassanesco has expanded into a group of companies that has undertaken successful projects for both the public and private sectors.
Salim Jarrar , CEO, UrbaCon Trading & Contracting (UCC)
UCC has secured a name for itself by accomplishing superior results in delivering critical projects time after time.
Chakib Nayfe , General Manager, Medgulf Construction
Despite the difficulties presented by the embargo and market, Medgulf Construction is predicting better times ahead.
Focus: Stadium maintenance post World Cup
Going for Goal
Qatar is one of the world's fastest-growing sports economies, fueled by international reach and the Qatari youth's interest in sports and disposable income to match.
Emad Turkman , CEO, Rumaillah Group & Chairman, Qatar British Business Forum
A group holding with seven companies specializing in trading and contracting, Rumaillah has been involved in most of Qatar's major and prestigious projects.
Given the importance of energy efficiency, companies are keen to introduce efficient cooling solutions to Qatar and beyond.
Ghassan Oueijan, Managing Director, Nakheel Landscapes
Nakheel Landscapes seeks to diversify into new activities that complement its business and align with its goals.
Karim Yazbek , Vice President & Country Manager, Hill International
TBY talks to Karim Yazbek Vice President & Country Manager of Hill International, on the Real Estate sector.
Voices from the Sector: Real Estate and Construction
Omar Bahgat , Regional Manager Qatar, ECG Engineering Consultants Group
TBY talks to Omar Bahgat, Regional Manager of ECG Engineering Consultants Group, on the Real Estate sector.
Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, Minister of Energy Affairs, President & CEO, Qatar Petroleum
Qatar Petroleum has the largest industrial base in Qatar and it is harnessing latest technologies to deliver enhanced performance and deliver on its ambitious growth strategy and vision to be one of the best oil and gas companies in the world.
Khalid Bin Khalifa Bin Jassim Al-Thani , CEO, Qatargas
With cleaner energy sources becoming a fundamental component of greenhouse gas mitigation strategies globally, Qatargas' role in the global energy sector has become more important than ever.
Alistair G. Routledge , President and General Manager, ExxonMobil Qatar
With a decades-old partnership, ExxonMobil Qatar is fully aware of its critical role in the global LNG sector and is investing USD1 billion annually in R&D to gauge future needs and trends.
Essa bin Hilal Al-Kuwari , President, Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa)
Kahramaa is completely aligned with the Qatar National Vision's sustainability targets and is working toward reducing the need for fossil fuels and increasing the country's renewables uptake.
Khalid Mohammed Jolo , CEO, Nebras Power
Nebras Power is one of many companies that have come out stronger in the face of the blockade, increasing investments in sustainable energies and devising global expansion plans.
Focus: North Gas Field
Leader in LNG
The world's largest natural gas field is set to undergo expansion at an opportune time in the global LNG market.
Phinda Vilakazi , President GTL Ventures,, Sasol
Sasol established the world's first commercial gas-to-liquids (GTL) facility and has since transferred knowledge to the local staff to forward its policy of helping local communities and promoting greener practices.
Voices from the Sector: Energy
Essa Mohammed Ali Kaldari, CEO, Qatar Primary Materials Co (QPMC)
TBY talks to Essa Mohammed Ali Kaldari, CEO of Qatar Primary Materials Co (QPMC), on the Energy sector.
Abdul Aziz Ahmed Bashraheel , Group Manager, Qatar Plastic Products Company W.L.L. (QPPC) & Qatar Wooden Products Company W.L.L. (QWPC)
TBY talks to Abdul Aziz Ahmed Bashraheel, Group Manager of Qatar Plastic Products Company W.L.L. (QPPC) & Qatar Wooden Products Company W.L.L. (QWPC), on the Energy sector.
Focus: Qatar's industrial renaissance
A Rebirth
In an unexpected turn of events, the blockade that was supposed to bring Qatar's economy and industry to a halt has resulted in an industrial rebirth, casting doubt on the effectiveness of such heavy-handed policies.
Nishad Azeem , CEO, Coastal Qatar
Coastal Qatar is a lean and agile organization, renowned for taking on projects that pose too big of a challenge to similar companies.
Saeed Salem Al-Mohannadi , Chairman, Seashore Group of Companies
Seashore Group of Companies is at the forefront of Qatar's pipeline development, and is set to benefit from government efforts to expand work at the North Field.
Voices from the Sector: Energy & Industry
QATAR NATIONAL VISION 2030
Dr. Saleh bin Mohammed Al-Nabit , President, Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA)
The government body tasked with drawing up a map of what development goals must be met by 2030 shares a huge responsibility for the country's future.
Yosouf Abdulrahman Saleh, Executive Director, Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP)
As a leading innovation hub and incubator, places like QSTP are reprogramming the country's DNA for the future.
Aysha Al Mudahka, CEO, Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC)
As one of the largest incubators in the region, QBIC is leading the charge to connect bright young aspiring entrepreneurs with the right mentors to guide them.
Jack Saba , General Manager of Public Affairs, Sasol
Keenly aware that their success is contingent upon the social health of the body politic, leading firms are designing innovative CSR programs to address society's greatest hurdles.
Reem Al-Suwaidi , General Manager, Bedaya
TBY talks Reem Al-Suwaidi, General Manager of Bedaya, on the Qatar Nationa Vision 2030 sector.
Meshal Al Shamari , Director, Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC)
Now a regional leader in green and sustainable building, Qatar is working hard to ensure the World Cup leaves an even greener legacy.
Focus: Smart metering
Some Bright Sparks
Today, new technologies are enabling the reduction of one's carbon footprint through the efficient domestic and commercial consumption of energy when required, rather than simply when available.
Focus: Cultural destination
Qatar's robust tourism sector
Traditionally viewed as a business haven, Qatar is beginning to assert itself as a viable destination for all sorts of travelers.
As Qatar moves ever closer to becoming a knowledge-based economy, universities strive to equip students with relevant, up-to-date skills that are necessary to succeed.
Dr. Abdul Sattar Al-Taie , Executive Director, Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF)
QNRF is focused on contributing to creating a mature culture of research in Qatar of the highest standards.
To compete at a global level, Qatar needs to excel in technical training to boost productivity and implement global best practices.
Buthaina Ali Al Nuaimi , President, Pre-University Education (PUE), Qatar Foundation
PUE wants its students not to simply be recipients or users of science and technology, but to be inspired to become innovators themselves.
Educational institutions in Qatar focus on making sure students and teachers are inspired, prepared, and fulfilled.
Abdulla Nasser Turki Al-Subaey , President, Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA)
QCAA has succeeded in concluding air service agreements with new countries and amending some existing ones, increasing the total number of signed agreements to 166.
Akbar Al Baker, Group CEO, Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways is the fastest growing airline in the world and with a host of plans lined up for 2019 and beyond, it will continue to surpass expectations and set new benchmarks.
Badr Mohammed Al-Meer , COO, Hamad International Airport (HIA)
TBY talks to Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, COO of Hamad International Airport (HIA) on the Transport sector.
Qatar Airways Cargo and Qatar Executive have developed into invaluable subsidiaries of Qatar Airways, assisting it to expand into new markets and reach new heights.
Sheikh Jabor Bin Hamad M. Al-Thani , , Qatar Aeronautical College (QAC)
QAC continues to excel in training modern pilots by introducing new structures and education tools and forming partnerships with prominent players in the aviation sector.
Mehmed Zingal , Country Manager, Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines strives to develop travel experience to an even higher level and considers customer satisfaction an essential value to ensuring that each guest leaves the aircraft with memorable experiences.
Focus: Hamad airport
Bigger and Better
Despite the ongoing blockade of June 2017, Qatar's leadership is racing forward with huge expansion plans that will boost Hamad International Airport's capacity to 65 million annual passengers and help its nascent Hamad Port reach a potential 400 million global customers a year.
Abdulla Al-Khanji , CEO, Mwani Qatar
Building robust relationships with international port authorities and major maritime players are key in Mwani Qatar ensuring the smooth flow of goods and access of Qatari goods to global markets.
Abdulrahman Essa Al-Mannai , President & CEO, Milaha
Milaha is the largest supply chain enabler in Qatar, helping to boost exports at a crucial time.
Neville Bissett , CEO, QTerminals
A joint venture between the public and private sectors, QTerminals has played a fundamental role in Qatar increasing its core business group from eight to over 25 countries.
Khalid Nasser Al Hail , Managing Director, Mowasalat
Mowasalat, Qatar's biggest transport provider, is gearing up to cater to the large influx of tourists for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Focus: Doha metro
Rapid Transit on Track
The administrators of Doha, a modern metropolis, are close to providing a system to end congestion and link key buildings and areas swiftly and with greater safety. To relieve life on the surface, Qatar Rail has gone underground.
Voices from the Sector: Transport
Ali Al-Khalifa , CEO, ASTAD
With a portfolio of impressive projects in Qatar and overseas, ASTAD is eyeing projects overseas to strengthen its strategic partnerships.
RETAIL & LIFESTYLE
Given their huge and time-tested consumer appeal, companies are competing to provide the best retail and entertainment offerings.
Sean Kelly , Project Director, Place Vendôme
With 90% of the world's foremost luxury brands on board, the high street brands are the next target in sight for Qatar's most ambitious shopping center to date.
Ashraf A. R. Abu Issa , Chairman, Abu Issa Holding
Abu Issa Holding has plans to launch e-commerce for the Qatari consumer market in mid-2019 by employing its strong distribution network of consumer items.
Retail Holdings
Diversified retail holdings employ economies of scale to create a more streamlined business with better operating dynamics and stronger financial muscle.
With tourism expected to grow significantly in the coming years, Qatar's F&B establishments see exciting opportunities ahead.
Khalid Al Ibrahim, Chief Strategic Planning Officer, Qatar Museums
The National Museum will continue the cultural growth and development Qatar Museums has sparked in the country over the past decade.
Dr. Sohair Wastawy , Executive Director, Qatar National Library (QNL)
TBY talks to Dr. Sohair Wastawy, Executive Director of Qatar National Library (QNL) on the Tourism sector.
Sanaa Ouahmane, General Manager, Almana Rent A Car Hertz-Qatar & Almana Used Cars
In addition to providing rental services, Almana Rent A Car-Hertz has established long-term lease options in response to market demand.
Mohamed Chebil , General Manager, The Curve Hotel
With the diversification of activities and new sources of tourism opening up, Qatar's hospitality sector has much to look forward to in the medium term.
Ross Milton , Owner & Managing Director, Bounce
TBY talks to Ross Milton, Owner & Managing Director of Bounce on Tourism sector.
Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie , Minister, Municipality and Environment
With a swathe of strategic agricultural projects in the pipeline, Qatar is exhibiting great success in securing greater food security.
Mohamed bin Badr Al-Sadah, CEO, Hassad Food
Hassad Food is looking at a few strategic investments overseas that are both profitable and support Qatar's food security program.
A new state-of-the-art fishery in Al Dhakira could help Qatar produce as much seafood as it consumes. It is but one battle in the long war to become far more sustainable in food production.
Peter Weltevreden , CEO, Baladna Food Industries
The market leader in the fresh milk sector in Qatar in only a year, Baladna is committed to contributing to Qatar's self-sufficiency without compromising on quality.
Qatar's agriculture sector has risen above the challenges of the blockade, with an increasing number of companies utilizing cutting-edge technologies and new business models to bring the country closer to food security.
Model of peace
The State of Qatar is keen to assume an active role within the international community, supporting international efforts to address climate change as well as initiatives to combat terrorism and maintain peace.