Qatari AI market projected to reach US$28.04m in 2024
Qatar is in the throes of huge inter-sectoral investments and programmes on artificial intelligence (AI) spanning information technology, telecom, education, venture capital, healthcare, energy and finance with Qatar government’s US$2.5 billion investment in data and AI, outlining its ambition to generate US$11 billion for the national economy and creating 26,000 jobs. While the market size in the AI market is projected to reach US$428.40 million in 2024 with an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2030) of 28.66 percent, resulting in a market volume of US$1,943.00 million by 2030, the national investment of US$2.5 billion is tipped to create 26,000 jobs in the country. These data were released by a joint report by Invest Qatar and global consulting firm Accenture at the inaugural World Summit AI – Qatar 2024. The report has furthered that with the thrust on Qatar is aiming to rank among the top 10 globally on the Digital Competitiveness Index by 2023. This investment swing – with active collaboration between the private and the public sectors on transformative initiatives – in AI is Qatar’s push to move its economy away from its over-reliance on hydrocarbons which, according to the International Trade Administration, “has consistently contributed to over 70 percent of the government of Qatar’s total revenues since 2014, as well as over 80 percent of Qatar’s total exports”. Qatar also ranks first in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for digital governance and mobile internet speeds, supported by Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud, with the launch of AI-specific education programmes and research initiatives, aiming to increase the percentage of highly skilled workers to over 46 percent by 2030. The bedrock laid out by Qatar National Vision 2030 Today’s AI thrust has been a gradual journey that started with the Qatar National Vision 2030 which aimed to create “an advanced society capable of sustaining its development and providing a high standard of living for its people”, a step further taken by the National AI Strategy that was launched in 2019, providing a comprehensive understanding of AI’s pivotal role in shaping the 21st century. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has tirelessly championed an environment conducive to AI innovation, resulting in a flourishing landscape. Numbers talk, and they predict annual growth of 17.4 percent, propelling Qatar’s AI market to an estimated US$58.8 million by 2026. What is AI? AI, a branch of computer science, focuses on creating machines able to perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence, and includes a wide range of applications, such as speech recognition, image processing, and autonomous vehicles and has seen rapid growth in recent years due to advancements in technology and increased investment. The AI market includes software, hardware, and services that enable organisations to develop and deploy applications and the market is structured into six sub-markets based on the technology: Source: https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/artificial-intelligence/qatar
Epic Adventures: Defender Confirms Three-Year Dakar and FIA World Rally-Raid Championship Works Programme
Doha, Qatar – xxx January 2025: Defender will compete with a works team in Dakar – the world’s most demanding off-road motorsport competition – as part of a full FIA World Rally Raid Championship (W2RC) entry. Starting in 2026, the three-year Defender works programme will consist of a two-car entry across the full five-rounds of the W2RC, with a third car participating each year in Dakar – the Championship’s halo event. From 2026 to 2028, Defender vehicles will compete in the FIA’s ‘Stock’ category – for production-based vehicles – within the Dakar Rally and the full W2RC. An update to the sporting and technical regulations in this important category will be implemented for 2026, making it significantly more competitive and the perfect platform to demonstrate the extreme capability and durability of Defender. Defender is made for Dakar. Its inherent capability and purpose-engineered D7x (x for extreme) architecture is based on a lightweight aluminium monocoque construction to create a stiff body structure. It is three times stiffer than traditional body-on-frame designs, providing perfect foundations to withstand the extreme conditions that Dakar will provide. A comprehensive Defender competition development programme is already underway which will culminate in a competitive test event during autumn 2025, followed by a full team launch ahead of Dakar 2026. Mark Cameron, Defender Managing Director, said: “Dakar 2025 begins today. Defender is already here showcasing its capability and durability through our official car partnership, but to know that in 12 months we’ll be back with a three-car Defender works team entry at the beginning of a full FIA World Rally Raid Championship campaign is incredibly exciting. We have chosen to compete in the ‘Stock’ category to showcase the toughness and dependability of the production Defender. “There’s much work to do over the next 12 months, but with Defender works programme testing and development well under way, the team are already embracing the ultimate motorsport adventure that lays ahead from 2026.” James Barclay, JLR Motorsport Managing Director said: “I’ve called Dakar the Everest of motorsport. Being here today to once again see the prologue stage kick-off reinforces the challenge we face. It will be an incredible adventure from both human and engineering perspectives, and the team are already working hard to develop Defender within the new ‘Stock’ FIA W2RC rules for 2026 that will make for such a competitive category. We along with the FIA, ASO and other manufacturers have helped shape these new regulations, which represent an exciting new chapter for the Dakar, W2RC and Rally Raid in general. “I’m looking forward to bringing you more news soon of our Rally Raid competition-spec Defender that’s in development.” While Defender will not compete in Dakar until 2026, it will play a key role at the 2025 rally as the event’s official vehicle partner. A fleet of 20 Defenders will support the event, which begins in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, and ends in Shubaytah, transporting race officials and VIP media. A further six highly specialised Defender recce vehicles will be used by Dakar Rally organisers to plan the routes for the 2026, 2027 and 2028 events.
Pre-orders Open for HUAWEI Mate X6 with Exclusive Early Bird Offers
Huawei announced the opening of pre-orders for the highly anticipated HUAWEI Mate X6 in Estate of Qatar. This latest generation foldable flagship brings significant upgrades in durability, camera performance, display technology, and multitasking, setting a new benchmark in the industry. Right now, valued consumers can reserve their HUAWEI Mate X6 through Huawei’s official stores in Qatar. Pre-orders are available at 7199 QR and come in two stunning colors: Nebula Grey and Nebula Red. Early adopters will enjoy exclusive gifts worth up 2417 QR (Watch GT4 as a gift + HUAWEI Care + and one Work Gift Box) The HUAWEI Mate X6 is meticulously engineered for durability without compromising on style. It offers a large screen experience in a compact form factor perfect for everyday use. The phone features 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass on the exterior screen, making it 25 times more drop-resistant, while the interior display is reinforced with a carbon fibre plate. An aerospace-grade aluminium frame provides a 37% increase in material resistance compared to previous models, complemented by the new advanced multi-dimensional hinge. The HUAWEI Mate X6 introduces the Ultra Chroma Camera, utilising 1.50 million spectral channels to achieve 120% improved colour accuracy. Whether capturing the human skin tones or the vibrant shades of red, the Mate X6 ensures images are true to life. The 50MP primary camera features a ten-size adjustable physical aperture, offering unparalleled control over depth of field and light intake. You can experience seamless multitasking with the Mate X6 with up to three apps to run simultaneously in an expanded view with effortless swipe navigation. The dual OLED displays, 6.45-inch exterior and 7.93-inch interior screens deliver exceptional colour accuracy and clarity. Adaptive high refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz provide smooth visuals while optimising energy consumption. The phone has a refreshingly stunning design inspired by the celestial elegance of star orbits. The HUAWEI Mate X6 in Nebula Grey edition features a Micro-Nano 3D Topography finish crafted from Vegan Fiber. This material is a fusion of aerospace-grade S-grade glass fibre and high-performance bulletproof vest material, achieving an unprecedented balance between lightweight strength and exceptional durability. It is also available in two ultra-thin soft-touch leather options, Nebula Red and Black. Visit HUAWEI Official stores in Doha festival City, Palace Vendome mall, to secure your pre-order today and take advantage of exclusive offers.
Qatar Calendar kicks off 2025 with a diverse schedule of events
Visit Qatar begins the year with a vibrant selection of activities and experiences across business events, entertainment, culture, and sport. The exciting Qatar Calendar 2025 promises dynamic events that position Qatar as a destination where visitors can create lasting memories and enjoy family- friendly events. The month of January kicked off with the Shop Qatar Festival 2025 which will run until February 1. The festival features discounts, daily entertainment, and opportunities to win major prizes. Visit Qatar is hosting a first-of-its-kind multi-activity desert experiences one is Sealine Season at Sealine Beach, taking place over three weeks from January 3 to 27 with activities spanning sports, entertainment, cultural displays, and engaging attractions. The other activation is Ras Abrouq, running until January 18, hosting special activities for everyone. Today on January 5 the Trophée des Champions Visit Qatar is set to take place at 974 Stadium. Msheireb Museums will host Hosh Msheireb from January 2, offering cultural activities until January 31. Several 2024 events will conclude in January, providing visitors with the final chance to attend. The Voyage Through the Golden Sands Exhibition at Katara ends on January 7, showcasing Qatar’s desert landscapes. The Crafting Design Futures at the Museum of Islamic Art will end on January 7, highlighting creative collaborations between Qatari and Moroccan artisans. Additionally, the Textile hand-weaving workshop at Liwan Studios concludes today on January 5. Visit Qatar promises line-up of diverse events throughout the year. End of January, the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2025 returns with its 21st edition, promising to captivate attendees with its exclusive showcase of luxury and craftsmanship. Web Summit Qatar 2025 returns in February, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from around the globe for the Middle Eastern edition of the world’s largest technology conference. April will witness the Ed Sheeran’s Global +–=÷x Tour 2025 at the state-of-the-art Lusail Multipurpose Hall, offering fans a world-class musical experience. Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) 2025 will return for its 14th edition in February. The second edition of the Luminous Festival promises a captivating celebration of light and art in March, while in February the ATP Open Qatar will thrill tennis fans with world-class matches. Adding to the excitement, the E1 Doha Grand Prix will host the world’s first all-electric raceboat series, taking place in February. To not miss out on any Qatar Calander’s 2025 events and to stay updated on all events information, visit www.visitqatar.com, download the Visit Qatar app, and follow @QatarCalendar on social media.
