Latest news with #NationalVision2030
Qatar Tribune
21-07-2025
- Science
- Qatar Tribune
QRDI Council awards 30 proposals for 6 Rapid Research Calls
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council announced 30 awards to seven institutions who will collaborate with the selected host partners on six Rapid Research Calls. Each research call is designed not only to produce practical, scalable solutions but also to build lasting research capacity within local institutions. Dr. Omar Boukhris, Director of National Research Program at QRDI Council, said: 'We look forward to the outcomes of these initiatives and their impact on shaping the nation's future. These collaborations are a clear reflection of QRDI Council's commitment to advancing toward Qatar's National Vision 2030. We will continue to champion and support research that drives innovative, practical solutions for the country's long-term growth.' The six Rapid Research Calls, along with their awarded institutions and host partners, are as follows: Education Above All: Life-Long Education Call (LiLEC) Awarded Institutions: Georgetown University in Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation, and Northwestern University in Qatar. This initiative focuses on creating an environment that supports lifelong learning by transforming education systems, improving policies, and encouraging workforce development. The goal is to enhance economic resilience and empower individuals through education. Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA): Modernising Charitable Sector Call (MCSC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Northwestern University in Qatar, and Qatar University. This call aims to strengthen Qatar's charitable and humanitarian sectors by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve performance and efficiency. It also looks to introduce innovative approaches to make humanitarian and developmental work more impactful. Qatar National Library (QNL): Preserving Qatar's Heritage Call (PQHC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Qatar University. This project is dedicated to building a sustainable heritage sector that preserves Qatar's cultural legacy for future generations. By developing resilient strategies, it ensures the protection and promotion of the nation's rich history. Scientific Research Programmes Office: Pathways Toward Prosperity (PTP) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This initiative addresses critical national priorities to support Qatar's sustainable development and economic growth. It focuses on identifying pathways to prosperity by tackling key challenges and promoting innovation. Qatar Airways: Qatar Logistics and Transportation Call (QLTC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar University, and the University of Doha for Science and Technology. This call aims to develop a sustainable logistics and transportation sector that contributes to Qatar's prosperity. A particular focus is placed on advancing solutions for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to promote environmentally friendly practices in aviation. Ministry of Public Health (MoPH): Road to BioPharma Call (RTBC) Awarded Institutions: Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar University, and Sidra Medicine. This initiative seeks to establish a regulatory framework that encourages innovation in biopharmaceuticals. It also aims to improve access to high-quality medicines, contributing to better healthcare outcomes for Qatar's population. By addressing pressing challenges and utilising the power of strategic partnerships, these research projects highlight Qatar'scommitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy. These awards reflect the Council's dedication to empowering researchers, strengthening institutional capabilities, and driving forward Qatar's ambition to become a global leader in research, development, and innovation.
Qatar Tribune
07-07-2025
- General
- Qatar Tribune
Endowments ministry opens Lady Maryam bint Muhammad Abdullah Mosque in Muaither Al Wukair
DOHA: The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, represented by the Mosques Department, has opened the Lady Maryam bint Muhammad Abdullah Mosque in the Muaither Al Wukair area. It is located on a large area of land amounting to 5,467square meters. The mosque is attached to the houses of the imam and the muezzin. The opening of the new mosque, endowed by Maryam bint Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Abdul Karim, is intended to be a beacon of worship and a house of God filled with prayer, remembrance, and the Quran. This comes as part of the Ministry's plan to expand and develop the number of mosques across the country, keeping pace with urban growth and population increase, in line with the country's National Vision 2030. The noble endowment's blessed work is considered one of the greatest acts of devotion. It is an ongoing charity that brings endless reward. The new mosque, which is a congregational mosque and has the number MS1430, includes a main prayer hall that can accommodate 989 worshippers, in addition to a women's hall that can accommodate 100 worshippers. The mosque includes a spacious ablution area, in addition to a large number of public parking spaces, a number of which are designated for people with disabilities, with organized entrances and exits. The mosque also features a tall minaret. The Ministry's Engineering Affairs Department is responsible for meeting the needs of the country's regions for mosques and prayer rooms, supplying regions with temporary mosques and supervising their preservation, preparing the annual plan for the maintenance of mosques and imams' residences, in coordination with the relevant authorities, supervising the preparation and implementation of construction and maintenance work for mosques, supervising the construction projects of mosques and imams' residences owned by endowments in terms of designs, technical and engineering specifications, and implementation, and preparing a database on mosques, prayer rooms, and their workers. The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs' website offers a feature for searching for mosque locations geographically, using the Global Navigation System (GNS). This feature provides precise and specific maps that facilitate access to mosque locations in all cities within the country.
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
World Bank Group appoints new Country Manager for Qatar
DOHA — The World Bank Group (WBG) announced today the appointment of Holly Welborn Benner as the World Bank Group Country Manager for the State of Qatar, based in Doha. This underlines the World Bank Group's commitment to strengthening the partnership with Qatar by supporting Qatar's private and public sector development priorities in line with its National Vision 2030. A new WBG office in Doha will deepen our engagement in response to development challenges, and national priorities with speed, efficiency, and impact. Most recently, Ms. Benner was the Resident Representative for Jordan, overseeing a program focused on growth and jobs aligned with Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked on development solutions for countries facing complex transition and reform challenges, including leading operations in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Her work included conflict-recovery efforts in Ukraine and programs in Tajikistan and Kyrgyz Republic that integrated energy infrastructure with community development. " As I step into the role of Country Manager for Qatar, I am both honored and excited to contribute to the World Bank Group's mission of fostering sustainable development and economic growth, bringing together public and private sector solutions to help Qatar implement its National Vision 2030," said Holly W. Benner, the World Bank Group Country Manager for Qatar. " Qatar's dynamic landscape also offers unique opportunities for the World Bank Group to promote Qatar's knowledge, innovation and investment in the Middle East region and globally." The World Bank Group is assisting Qatar in achieving its "National Vision 2030" which aims to strengthen human capital, support job creation, diversify the economy, and drive sustainable growth by catalyzing cross-border investments, facilitating public-private partnerships, promoting women's economic empowerment, and addressing sustainability challenges. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group focused on the private sector in emerging markets, has invested and mobilized $1.84 billion of financing to help Qatari companies expand to new markets in developing countries. MIGA, the home of the World Bank Group Guarantee Platform, issued guarantees in the amount of $225 million to Kasada Hospitality Fund LP, a firm that is 69.7% owned by a subsidiary of the Qatari Investment Authority. These guarantees enabled investments in 17 hotels with 2,900 hotel rooms in seven countries across sub-Saharan Africa. The Qatar office will operate under a single Country Manager for the World Bank Group including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
ILoveQatar.net
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- ILoveQatar.net
First-ever hybrid Land Cruiser unveiled in Qatar
Al Abdulghani Motors, the authorized distributor of Toyota in Qatar, is proud to announce the launch of the new Land Cruiser HEV, the first hybrid electric model in the iconic Land Cruiser series. Setting a new benchmark for electrified off-road vehicles, the new Land Cruiser fuses seven decades of heritage with Toyota's cutting-edge hybrid technology, delivering enhanced performance while maintaining the unmatched reliability, durability, and all-terrain capability for which the Land Cruiser is renowned. This momentous launch, which sees the new Land Cruiser HEV debut first in the Middle East, highlights the unique and enduring relationship between the region and the Land Cruiser nameplate. Since the model's inception in 1951, the Land Cruiser has supported the lives and livelihoods of people across the globe, becoming an indispensable tool across some of the world's harshest environments. The introduction of the Land Cruiser HEV marks a bold step toward Toyota's vision for carbon neutrality under its multi-pathway approach, offering customers greater choice while ensuring that no compromises are made on capability or reliability. Building upon 28 years of leadership in hybrid technology, Toyota has applied its extensive expertise to create an electric off-roader capable of delivering superior power, driving refinement, and environmental benefits, all while staying true to the Land Cruiser spirit. Commenting on the special launch, Abdulghani Nasser Al Abdulghani, CEO of Al Abdulghani Motors, said: 'Today, we are proud to launch the Hybrid Electric version of the Land Cruiser for the very first time in Qatar. The new model complements the Land Cruiser's renowned off-road capabilities with hybrid electric technology, meeting the needs of Qatar's environment. Expanding our hybrid lineup not only aligns with Toyota's global vision for carbon neutrality but also reinforces our commitment to supporting Qatar's sustainability goals in line with the National Vision 2030.' The Land Cruiser HEV inherits the core DNA that has defined the series for generations — reliability, durability, and exceptional off-road performance — now enhanced through electrification. The hybrid system introduces a 20% increase in torque and a 40% improvement in accelerator response compared to conventional powertrains, resulting in a driving experience that is more powerful, more linear, and more responsive across every terrain. Extensive development and real-world testing on global terrains, including deserts, mudflats, and mountainous landscapes, ensured that the Land Cruiser HEV remains capable of taking drivers anywhere and everywhere — and bringing them back safely. Invaluable lessons learned from Toyota's participation in off-road rallies such as the Dakar Rally were also incorporated into the development process to enhance the vehicle's endurance and performance in extreme conditions. As a result, the Land Cruiser HEV's hybrid system has been designed with true off-road reliability in mind. Even in the unlikely event of hybrid unit failure, the vehicle can continue operating solely on the combustion engine, ensuring peace of mind in remote areas. The hybrid battery area has been specially waterproofed to maintain the Land Cruiser's famed fording ability, allowing it to tackle rivers and water obstacles with confidence. Additionally, the vehicle also offers a third-row seat and cargo layout specifically optimized for the addition of the HEV system, ensuring no compromise in versatility or interior space. The launch of the Land Cruiser HEV represents more than just the evolution of a legendary vehicle — it is a commitment to a future where Toyota continues to deliver solutions that meet customer needs without compromising its core values. By bringing electrification to its most trusted off-roader, Toyota reaffirms its dedication to creating vehicles that inspire trust, adventure, and enduring loyalty. As Toyota looks ahead to an era of sustainable mobility, the Land Cruiser HEV stands as a proud example of innovation rooted in tradition, offering customers an even better way to explore new horizons.
ILoveQatar.net
01-07-2025
- Business
- ILoveQatar.net
Qatar's economy continues sustainable growth of 3.7% in Q1 2025
The National Planning Council (NPC) has announced GDP data for the first quarter of 2025, with Qatar's economy registering real GDP growth of 3.7% compared to the same period in 2024. In a press release, the NPC said GDP at constant prices reached QR 181.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025, compared to QAR 175 billion in the same quarter of the previous year. These results indicate strong progress towards achieving sustainable growth, built on diversifying the economy beyond hydrocarbon activities and increasing the contribution of the private sector in accordance with the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) and Qatar's National Vision 2030. To provide a more accurate reading of the national economy, the National Statistics Center, within the National Planning Council, deployed an updated methodology for calculating GDP, and has revised quarterly GDP data for the period between 2018 and 2024. The revisions in the methodology revolved around updating indicators for different economic activities, and introducing other advanced calculations that align with international standards for measuring output. Data issued by the National Statistics Centre highlighted the results of national efforts in strengthening the non-hydrocarbon economy, whose contribution constituted 63.6% of real GDP for the first quarter of 2025, around QAR 115 billion, a growing share compared to the 62.6% figure in the same period in 2024. The non-hydrocarbon economy is delivering accelerated year-on-year growth of 5.3% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same last year reflecting the ongoing expansion of various economic activities away from the traditional reliance on hydrocarbon related activities. The growth of the non-hydrocarbon economy by 5.3% in the first quarter of this year is attributed to the growth in the manufacturing sector which increased by +5.6%, the construction sector +4.4%, the real estate sector +7.0% and the wholesale and retail trade sector +14.6%. Significant increases were also recorded in relatively smaller parts of the economy including the accommodation and food services sector +13.8%, and the transport and storage sector +3.5%, demonstrating broad-based growth and continued growth in tourism activity in the State of Qatar. The continued and consistent growth of the non-hydrocarbon economy in the first quarter of 2025 demonstrates the effectiveness of the State's policies and reforms in improving the business environment and providing opportunities to the private sector. It also demonstrates strong commitment of both public and private sectors to invest in the local market and drive growth through the implementation of the Third National Development Strategy, in line with the economic diversification roadmap set out by Qatar's National Vision 2030. Non-hydrocarbon growth was not limited to manufacturing and production activities, service activities also witnessed growth compared to the same period in 2024, professional including scientific and technical activities +7.2%, human health and social work +2.6%, and the education sector +0.1%. Service activities continue to be a priority for government and these growth rates demonstrate an intensification of efforts to enhance quality of life and human capital in Qatar, and continually increase Qatar's global competitiveness. Despite the volatility facing the global economy and its potential impact on oil and gas prices, growth in hydrocarbon activities continues, now accounting for 36.4% of Qatar's real GDP, around QR 66 billion, with a growth rate of 1.0% compared to the same period of 2024. These figures reflect continued strong demand for Qatari hydrocarbon products, as well as the resilience of the Qatari economy in the face of global economic challenges. Commenting on the latest GDP figures, HE Secretary General of the National Planning Council Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa said: "These indicators highlight the progress of Qatar's economy, particularly in terms of non-hydrocarbon economic growth, whose activities have recorded remarkable growth, demonstrating greater diversification and stability for Qatar's economy as the State continues to strive to build a sustainable economy. The current growth rates also indicate additional opportunities for development, as there remains significant potential that we seek to unlock through the Third National Development Strategy to continue to build sustainable economic growth that offers unique investment and entrepreneurial opportunities for the private sector."
