Lusail City to Host 2026 Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final for the Second Year Running
Visit Qatar and the Professional Triathletes Organisation have confirmed that Lusail City will host the 2026 Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final for the second consecutive year, reinforcing Qatar’s growing reputation as a global destination for elite sporting events, endurance festivals, and experiential travel. The championship will take place from 10 to 12 December 2026, bringing together professional triathletes, amateur athletes, community runners, families, and sports enthusiasts for a multi-day festival of endurance and lifestyle experiences. Following the success of the event’s inaugural edition in Qatar in 2025, the return of the T100 World Championship Final reflects the strong public engagement and international appeal generated by the race. It also strengthens Lusail’s position as one of Qatar’s most dynamic venues for major global events. The 2026 edition will feature a broad programme designed for different ages and fitness levels. Events will include the Open T100 race, Sprint Triathlon, T100 Age Group World Championships, and 1km and 5km community runs, making the championship weekend accessible to both elite competitors and the wider public. As the closing stage of the wider 2026 T100 Triathlon World Tour, the Qatar final will bring the world’s leading professional triathletes to Lusail after a season of competition across major international destinations. The tour runs from March through to December, ending with the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championships. Athletes competing in the signature T100 format will complete a demanding course that begins with a 2km swim in the Arabian Gulf, followed by an 80km cycling route through Lusail’s iconic streets, before finishing with an 18km run across Lusail Plaza and Boulevard. Beyond the race itself, the championship weekend will feature an immersive event village offering family entertainment, wellness activations, food experiences, and spectator activities. The festival-style format is designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for participants, residents, and visitors, while positioning the event as more than a professional sporting competition. For Qatar, the return of the T100 final carries strategic significance. Major international events continue to play an important role in the country’s tourism growth, supporting hotel occupancy, destination visibility, visitor engagement, and local business activity. Events of this scale also contribute to Qatar’s long-term ambition to become a year-round hub for sport, culture, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. The selection of Lusail further highlights Qatar’s world-class infrastructure and its ability to host major global sporting events in modern, accessible urban environments. With its waterfront setting, wide boulevards, integrated transport links, and landmark public spaces, Lusail offers a strong platform for international endurance sport. The championship also supports Visit Qatar’s wider strategy to expand the country’s sports tourism calendar and attract global audiences through high-impact events. By combining professional sport with community participation and destination experiences, the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final adds another layer to the country’s evolving tourism proposition. As Qatar prepares to welcome athletes and visitors in December 2026, the event is expected to further elevate Lusail’s global profile and strengthen Qatar’s position as a leading Middle Eastern destination for international sports, wellness tourism, and large-scale community experiences. Participation details and registration information are available through the official T100 Qatar Registration Page.
“Influence Is Responsibility to the People Who Trust My Voice”
Rony Kikano on Scaling Brands, Influence, and the Power of Structure in Business In today’s fast-moving media and business environment, influence has become more than visibility. For Rony Kikano, Founder of Kikano Media, influence is built on credibility, consistency, and responsibility toward the people who trust his voice. As the founder of Kikano Media, an integrated digital, creative agency and media production company in Qatar, Kikano has built a business focused on authentic storytelling, aesthetic visual production, strategic brand development, and holistic creative execution. With more than 1,500 projects completed, he has established himself as one of Qatar’s recognised names in content creation, media strategy, and brand influence. His work has earned him major recognition, including being named Best Influencer in Qatar by Visit Qatar and Top Creator by Web Summit 2026. But for Kikano, these titles were never the end goal. They reflected years of building trust, understanding audiences, and helping brands communicate with clarity. From Positioning to Influence Kikano’s journey began long before social media became the powerful business tool it is today. His early work focused on helping companies shape perception through positioning, storytelling, and brand communication. This foundation helped him understand a core business truth: audiences do not connect with brands through visibility alone. They connect through clarity, emotion, consistency, and trust. As Qatar’s digital landscape evolved, Kikano transitioned into content creation and influencer marketing, combining strategic thinking with public visibility. This allowed him to move beyond traditional marketing and become a bridge between brands and audiences. Today, through Kikano Media, he helps businesses grow through strategy, media production, digital campaigns, influencer-led communication, and high-impact brand exposure. British Got Talent Judge – Alesha Dixon – Piaget President – Piaget Yves – Carolina Herrera Founder – Carolina Herrera Influence as Responsibility For Kikano, influence is not just about reach, followers, or engagement. It is about responsibility. “Influence is responsibility to the people who trust my voice,” he believes. In a market like Qatar, where relationships, reputation, and credibility carry strong value, being recognised as a leading influencer means protecting the trust of both audiences and brands. Kikano sees influence as something that existed long before social media. It was always about connection, credibility, and the ability to shape perception. Social media simply gave that influence a louder platform. As a content creator and brand ambassador in Qatar, his focus remains on creating value-driven content that builds long-term relationships between brands and their audiences, rather than chasing short-lived attention. The Birth of Kikano Media Founded in 2015, Kikano Media was created to address a clear gap in the market. Businesses did not only need content; they needed direction, structure, and measurable results. Kikano Media has since grown into a full-service advertising and media agency in Qatar, offering integrated solutions across digital, creative, and production services. The agency’s services include: Bulk SMS marketing campaignsOut-of-home advertising through digital screens in malls and key locations across QatarSocial media management and content strategyMall activations and brand exposure campaignsCreative media production and brand storytelling What sets Kikano Media apart is its ability to combine influencer insight with strategic execution. Kikano brings firsthand knowledge of audience behaviour into the planning process, allowing campaigns to be creative, commercially relevant, and performance-driven. Local Insight, Global Thinking Kikano Media works with both local and international brands, but Kikano understands that each requires a different approach. For international companies entering Qatar, the agency focuses on localisation. This means adapting global brand identities to suit the local market while maintaining the strength of the original brand. Through digital screens, mall placements, content strategy, and targeted campaigns, Kikano Media helps global brands connect with Qatari audiences in a meaningful way. For local brands, the focus is growth. Kikano Media supports businesses by building visibility, strengthening digital presence, and helping them scale through social media, influencer marketing, and strategic exposure across high-traffic locations in Qatar. His work as a brand ambassador for major names, including Ooredoo, has given him a valuable perspective: global standards must be matched with local understanding. Longchamp President – Jean Cassegrain – Aigner President – Sibylle Schon Scaling Requires Structure For Kikano, scaling a business requires more than expansion. It requires structure. A company can grow quickly, but without clear systems, a strong identity, and cultural adaptability, that growth can become difficult to manage. Kikano believes the businesses that succeed across markets are those that remain consistent while adapting intelligently to local audiences. From working with major clients and international brands, he has developed a clear set of business lessons: Consistency builds trust.Data strengthens creativity.Systems create scalability.Long-term vision drives growth.Simplicity creates impact. These principles guide the work at Kikano Media, whether the agency is managing a large-scale advertising campaign, developing a social media strategy, or creating out-of-home visibility across Qatar. Reinvention in a Changing Market In today’s business environment, reinvention is no longer optional. Platforms change, consumer habits shift, and brands must evolve without losing their identity. Kikano continues to reinvent himself as a creator, entrepreneur, and media strategist. At Kikano Media, that same mindset drives the company’s evolution from traditional advertising into digital screens, SMS marketing, influencer campaigns, content strategy, and integrated media solutions. For Kikano, reinvention does not mean replacing the original vision. It means strengthening it with sharper tools, smarter systems, and more relevant execution. Lessons from Clients Working with clients across industries has shaped Kikano’s perspective as a business leader. He believes clients have taught him resilience, patience, and the importance of perspective. Every brand has different ambitions, challenges, and pressures. Understanding those realities has helped him become more strategic, grounded, and commercially aware. This experience has also shaped how Kikano Media approaches campaigns. Creativity is important, but it must be practical, relevant, and aligned with the client’s business goals. The Road Ahead Looking ahead, Kikano plans to continue expanding both his personal influence and the reach of Kikano Media. Over the next two years, his ambition is to grow Kikano Media into a stronger international advertising agency while expanding its footprint
Building Business on Timeless Values: Trust, Relationships and Love for Qatar
Khalifa Abdulrahman Al Mannai, Chairman of Teyseer Holding, carries forward the legacy of founder Abdulrahman Essa Al Mannai while steering one of Qatar’s longstanding multi-sector groups toward governance, innovation, sustainability and Qatar National Vision 2030. For Khalifa Abdulrahman Al Mannai, Chairman of Teyseer Holding, business was never built on transactions alone. It was built on trust, relationships, service and a deep love for Qatar. Following the legacy of his late father and founder of the group, Abdulrahman Essa Al Mannai, Khalifa Al Mannai has continued to guide Teyseer Holding with a balance of tradition and transformation. Today, the group stands as a multi-sector conglomerate with interests across automotive and mobility, industrial and construction solutions, security and manpower, energy, technology and IT solutions. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1968, Teyseer Holding has grown alongside Qatar’s own development journey. From the country’s early infrastructure growth to its emergence as a modern global economy, the group has remained closely aligned with Qatar’s national progress. “Our goal is not only to grow but to grow responsibly, contributing to the nation’s long-term development,” says Khalifa Al Mannai. A Legacy Built With Purpose Khalifa Al Mannai’s journey with Teyseer Holding began at a young age, working alongside his father, the late Abdulrahman Essa Al Mannai, and his brothers. It was a period that shaped both his business understanding and his personal values. “Each of us carried different responsibilities, but we were united by one purpose: to build, to serve, and to grow something meaningful together,” recalls Khalifa Al Mannai. “I began as director of the service centre, and through that journey, I did not only learn business, but I also honed the values that my father believed in.” For Khalifa Al Mannai, the story of Teyseer Holding is inseparable from the philosophy of its founder. “I witnessed firsthand how my father built Teyseer Holding with his heart and soul. He did not simply establish a company; he created a philosophy and named it Teyseer, meaning ‘facilitation’, because his purpose in life was to make things easier for people. That belief became the foundation of everything we do today,” he says. That founding philosophy continues to define the group’s culture. Teyseer Holding was never positioned merely as a commercial enterprise. It was built as a service-led institution committed to people, partners and the nation. Growing With Qatar As Qatar developed from the 1960s into one of the region’s most dynamic economies, Teyseer Holding evolved with it. The group played a role in supporting key sectors linked to infrastructure, mobility, services and technology, becoming part of the broader story of Qatar business growth. “Teyseer Holding was never built on transactions. It was built on trust, relationships and service to the nation,” says Khalifa Al Mannai. “As Qatar evolved from the 1960s into the global, modern nation that it is today, Teyseer Holding stood as one of its building blocks, growing alongside it and supporting its infrastructure, mobility and technological advancement.” This Qatar-focused growth has enabled Teyseer Holding to become a recognised name across multiple industries. Its sector footprint reflects the group’s ability to operate across strategic areas that remain vital to Qatar’s economy. Teyseer Holding Sector Footprint Each sector represents a strategic pillar in Qatar’s development, driven by specialised subsidiaries operating under a unified framework of values, governance and service excellence. Key sectors include: Automotive and mobilityIndustrial and construction solutionsSecurity and manpowerEnergy solutionsTechnology and IT solutionsInfrastructure servicesBusiness servicesRegional operations and partnerships With more than 18 subsidiaries and over 7,500 employees, Teyseer Holding continues to contribute to Qatar’s economic development while preparing for future scalability. Values That Do Not Change At the heart of Teyseer Holding’s long-standing success are values that have remained consistent across generations: integrity, commitment, unity and service. For Khalifa Al Mannai, these values are not corporate slogans. They are lived principles that shape the way the organisation works, grows and leads. “Teyseer Holding is not just a company but a family,” he says. “And I say with pride that many of our employees have spent their entire lives with us. Loyalty is not demanded at Teyseer Holding; it is earned.” This sense of loyalty has become one of the group’s strongest foundations. It has helped the organisation build long-term relationships with employees, customers, partners and stakeholders across Qatar and beyond. Khalifa Al Mannai’s own transition into leadership reflected the same continuity of purpose. “My transition from director to Chairman was not a sudden shift. It was a continuation of a journey deeply rooted in purpose,” he says. “I was not stepping into a position. I was stepping into a legacy, a legacy that carried my father’s vision. This is not an obligation but my life’s purpose.” The Evolution Into Teyseer Holding A major milestone in the group’s journey was its evolution into Teyseer Holding. The move represented more than a change in name. It reflected a strategic transformation into a more structured, future-focused organisation. Guided by Khalifa Al Mannai, the transition underscored the group’s commitment to stronger governance, disciplined growth and long-term investment across key sectors. “This transition is not just in name, but in mindset: strengthening governance, enhancing strategic oversight and positioning the organisation for the next phase of sustainable growth across sectors,” says Khalifa Al Mannai. The transformation has allowed the group to sharpen its strategic direction while preserving its founding values. “Teyseer Holding reflects how we see the future of the organisation — structured, forward-looking and built for long-term impact. This evolution allows us to strengthen our governance and expand our role as a strategic investor across sectors that support Qatar’s continued growth,” he explains. Future-Ready Sectors And Qatar National Vision 2030 Looking ahead, Teyseer Holding is focused on future-ready sectors aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. While mobility, infrastructure and technology remain core pillars, the group is also exploring opportunities in sustainability, smart solutions and innovation-driven industries. This forward-looking approach places Teyseer Holding firmly within the wider landscape of Qatar economic policy, Qatar industry news and business growth
Sidra Medicine introduces Qatar’s first advanced gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease and thalassemia
First Patient Onboarded for Treatment Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has been qualified by Vertex Pharmaceuticals as one of a of a limited number of hospitals in the world, to administer Casgevy, a groundbreaking, one-time CRISPR/Cas9-based gene therapy treatment. Casgevy is now available in Qatar for patients aged 12 years and older, living with transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia (TDT) and severe sickle cell disease (SCD). Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Chief Medical Officer at Sidra Medicine, said: “We are proud to be chosen as the first hospital in Qatar to deliver a gene editing therapy with the potential for a functional cure. This milestone reinforces Qatar’s position as a regional leader in advanced medicine and precision health. Through our collaboration with Vertex, we are bringing the world’s first approved medicine using the Nobel Prize winning CRISPR/Cas9 technology to treat transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia and severe sickle cell disease. The therapy is available to children in Qatar and the broader MENA region.” Approved by the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar (MOPH), as well as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and other agencies, Casgevy is the first-in-class CRISPR/Cas 9 gene-edited therapy that targets the genetic root cause of these inherited blood disorders. The therapy has shown transformative outcomes for patients with sickle cell disease and independence from regular blood transfusions for patients with transfusion dependent beta thalassemia. Hisham Hagar, Executive Country Manager at Vertex GCC, said: “The launch of the CRISPR/Cas9 therapy in Qatar represents a significant leap forward in our efforts against serious diseases. This achievement is a direct result of our invaluable partnership with Sidra Medicine and reinforces Vertex’s mission to transform lives through scientific innovation. We are confident that this treatment will offer the potential for a durable and impactful treatment option for eligible patients with transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia and severe sickle cell disease in Qatar.” Sidra Medicine currently follows approximately 150 to 200 children in Qatar diagnosed with thalassemia and sickle cell disease. While not all of them need gene-therapy, Casgevy is reserved for patients with the most severe form of SCD or TDT — those still experiencing frequent pain crises, stroke risk, or the cumulative burden of lifelong transfusions despite the best medical care. For this group, where conventional treatment is no longer enough, Casgevy offers something genuinely new: a one-time intervention aimed at the root cause. Dr. Chiara Cugno, Acting Chief of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant and Director of the Advanced Cell Therapy Core at Sidra Medicine, said: “The introduction of Casgevy marks a historic advancement for people living with transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia and severe sickle cell disease. This therapy offers not only hope but the potential for a functional cure, by addressing these diseases at their genetic origin. Our team at Sidra Medicine has worked closely with Vertex to ensure that all clinical, ethical, and technical processes are in place to deliver this treatment safely and effectively.” Sidra Medicine’s approval as a Casgevy treatment center means that eligible patients in Qatar will now have access to this one-time, potentially curative therapy closer to home. It has just onboarded its first patient who is currently undergoing assessment for the therapy. Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chair of Pediatric Medicine at Sidra Medicine said: “Our goal is to ensure that every child treated at Sidra Medicine receives not only the most advanced therapies but also compassionate, family-centered care throughout their journey. Casgevy represents more than a scientific breakthrough. It embodies our commitment to improving the lives of young patients living with these challenging conditions. By integrating innovation with compassion, we are redefining what it means to deliver excellence in pediatric care.” Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine, added: “This milestone exemplifies our precision health vision, where treatment is guided by each patient’s unique genetic makeup. By bringing transformative gene therapies like Casgevy to Qatar, Sidra Medicine is leveraging cutting-edge research and clinical practice to deliver personalized care for children living with rare and inherited diseases. This is a testament to our national commitment to advancing genomic medicine and positioning Qatar as a leader in precision health across the region.” Casgevy has already been successfully administered to patients globally outside of clinical trials, achieving transfusion independence and significant improvements in quality of life. With this milestone, Sidra Medicine reaffirms its vision to become a regional center of excellence in pediatric cell and gene therapy, expanding access to advanced, personalized, and life-changing treatments. The treatment journey The treatment journey at Sidra Medicine will begin with the safe collection of a patient’s stem cells through apheresis. The cells, in collaboration with Vertex, are then sent to expert laboratories, where they undergo gene editing and validation using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Once edited, the cells are returned to Sidra Medicine and preserved until infused. Before infusion, the patient receives chemotherapy to prepare their body to accept the new cells. The gene-edited cells are then infused back into the patient, where they begin to grow in the bone marrow and start producing healthy red blood cells. This complex and highly specialized process is followed by a comprehensive post-treatment recovery and long-term monitoring plan led by Sidra Medicine’s multidisciplinary team in pediatric hematology, oncology, nephrology, and the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility.
Hope in Action : The UNHCR–Qatar Partnership
A UNHCR staff member smiles with an internally displaced woman (IDP) inside her tent at an IDP gathering site near Kassala, Sudan. So far, 400 UNHCR tents have been erected at the site, which is expected to host some 800 families newly displaced by severe flooding in the region, as the rainy season sets in. © UNHCR/Aymen Alfadil Driving change for millions — how Qatar’s commitment to the world’s displaced is reshaping humanitarian response. By Aparajita Mukherjee Ahmed Mohsen, UNHCR Representative to the State of Qatar, in conversation with Business Leaders Qatar. BL Talk us through your career path. Ahmed Mohsen My career has been anchored in a strong commitment to human rights and advancing protection for forcibly displaced individuals. With academic degrees in international human rights law, international criminal justice, and risk, crisis, and disaster management, I have always believed that rigorous theory must be reinforced by practical field engagement. I began my journey with UNHCR as a volunteer in Cairo — an experience that shaped my understanding of community-based protection. Over the past two decades, I have served in complex operational contexts including Egypt, Eritrea, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, and Syria, working across managerial, legal, protection and external relations functions. Before assuming my role as UNHCR Representative to Qatar in July 2023, I served as Deputy Representative to the GCC countries in Riyadh. BL As UNHCR Representative in Qatar — one of UNHCR’s top donors — what are the strategic priorities before you? Ahmed Mohsen UNHCR continues its efforts to sustain the long-standing strategic partnership with the State of Qatar and to expand collaboration with Qatari institutions. Qatar has long been one of UNHCR’s major donors, providing predictable and flexible contributions to life-saving programmes in the MENA region and beyond. The Office aims to expand engagement across Qatari NGOs, foundations, philanthropists, and the corporate sector — broadening collaboration to encompass resource mobilisation, advocacy, innovative financing, and sustainable humanitarian responses. “Qatar’s engagement goes beyond financial contributions — it reflects a broader approach grounded in international solidarity and responsibility-sharing.” — AHMED MOHSEN, UNHCR REPRESENTATIVE TO QATAR As winter grips Syria, displaced and returnee families continue to endure freezing conditions in damaged or inadequate shelters. UNHCR is on the ground providing winter kits and cash assistance to help the most vulnerable stay safe and warm. © UNHCR/Hameed Maarouf BL Qatar participated in the 2026 UNHCR Annual Pledging Conference in Geneva. Could you reflect on the pledge Qatar made? Ahmed Mohsen Qatar reaffirmed its support through a multi-year contribution for 2025–26, led by HE Jawhara bint Abdulaziz Al Suwaidi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN. This renewed commitment comes at a time of growing humanitarian needs and widening funding gaps. For UNHCR, predictable and multi-year support is critical — it allows us to respond to immediate needs, plan more effectively, support durable solutions, and ensure continuity of assistance to the most vulnerable. BL Talk us through the National Asylum System MoU between UNHCR and Qatar. Ahmed Mohsen The MoU signed with Qatar’s Department of Human Rights at the Ministry of Interior signals a shift from access-based to system-based protection, enabling UNHCR to support the implementation of a nationally owned asylum framework aligned with international standards. This partnership positions UNHCR as a trusted technical adviser, incorporating international protection principles into Qatar’s legal and administrative systems. BL Qatar contributes to UNHCR operations in Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and for Rohingya refugees. What light can you throw on these contributions? Ahmed Mohsen Qatar’s overall contributions to UNHCR, exceeding US$440 million (QR1.6 billion) since 2010, have supported more than 9 million forcibly displaced people. These contributions fund education, healthcare, shelter, cash assistance, and livelihoods programmes — all essential to safeguarding the dignity of displaced populations. In 2025, contributions included: access to secondary healthcare for Syrian refugees in Jordan; cash assistance for displaced families in Yemen; core relief items in Chad, Djibouti, and Ghana; and cash and shelter assistance for returnees in Syria. UNHCR Distribution in Adra Saida Governorate in south Lebanon, UNHCR distributed core relief items to displaced families in a collective shelter in Saida. © UNHCR/Houssam Hariri UKRAINE RESPONSE In September 2025, UNHCR signed a US$5 million (QR18.2 million) agreement with Qatar Fund For Development (QFFD) to rehabilitate war-damaged homes and community infrastructure in Ukraine. Over 12 months, this will benefit more than 4,000 internally displaced persons and returnees — helping them return to safe and dignified living conditions. Since February 2022, close to 55,000 war-damaged homes have been repaired as part of UNHCR’s shelter programme. BL Qatar reaffirmed its support for UN refugee efforts in New York. Could you detail the ways Qatar would support this? Ahmed Mohsen During a meeting between HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN, and UN High Commissioner Dr. Barham Salih in New York in March, Qatar reaffirmed its strong and sustained support for UNHCR’s mandate. Qatar emphasised its continued backing for humanitarian operations, readiness to support global initiatives for displaced communities, and engagement with multilateral partners to address regional displacement challenges. “The High Commissioner welcomed Qatar’s ongoing humanitarian contributions and its constructive role in collective responses to refugee crises worldwide.” — UNHCR, MARCH 2026 BL On a short- to medium-term roadmap for UNHCR in Qatar, what would be the focus action areas? Ahmed Mohsen The 2026 planning figure for forcibly displaced and stateless populations stands at 136 million. UNHCR’s proposed budget for 2026 is US$8.505 billion — a reduction of US$2.1 billion versus 2025, reflecting strategic prioritisation rather than reduced need. In Qatar, focus remains on partnerships and resource mobilisation. Top countries funded by Qatari partners include Yemen, Bangladesh, and Lebanon. UNHCR has expanded Islamic philanthropy tools, including the Refugee Zakat Fund and the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR). Since 2018, Qatari private sector partners have contributed over US$130 million (QR473.2 million) to the Refugee Zakat Fund, assisting more than 3.3 million displaced Sudan : Forcibly displaced and host communities go back to school after two years of conflict. © UNHCR/Antonia Vadala
Qatar’s Window to the Universe
The Blue Horsehead Nebula (IC 4592), captured over seven nights from Sawda Natheel, southern Qatar. Image courtesy: Rabeea Alkuwari / NASA APOD A striking deep-space image captured from Qatar’s desert skies by astrophotographer Rabeea Alkuwari, selected as NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day. Qatari astrophotographer Rabeea Alkuwari has once again captured the world’s attention — and NASA’s — after his breathtaking image of the Blue Horsehead Nebula (IC 4592) was selected as NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day, marking his third such recognition from the world’s most celebrated space agency. Shot across seven painstaking nights from Sawda Natheel in southern Qatar, the image required two adjacent frames stitched together to capture the nebula’s full scale — a technical feat that reflects both the complexity of deep-sky imaging and the extraordinary clarity of Qatar’s desert skies. The subject, IC 4592 — the Blue Horsehead Nebula — is a reflection nebula in the constellation Scorpius, illuminated by the bright star Nu Scorpii. Its delicate blue hues and vast celestial structure make it one of the most visually striking deep-sky objects, and one of the most technically demanding to photograph. “Being able to share my work from the premium skies of Qatar with the world is always a pleasure.” -RABEEA ALKUWARI, ASTROPHOTOGRAPHER A mechanical engineer by profession and a stargazer by passion, Alkuwari’s achievement is a powerful reminder that world-class scientific artistry can emerge from right here in Qatar — from its silent desert plains, its expansive dark skies, and from the quiet ambition of those who look upward and refuse to stop reaching. WHY THIS MATTERS FOR QATAR Alkuwari’s recognition places Qatar on the global map of scientific and creative achievement — not through imported expertise, but through homegrown talent. His work demonstrates that Qatar’s people are capable of contributing to humanity’s greatest pursuit: understanding the universe. NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day programme, running since 1995, features a single image each day selected by professional astronomers for its scientific and artistic merit. To be selected once is remarkable. To be selected three times — from the same patch of desert sky in southern Qatar — is extraordinary. In a nation building its future across technology, science, education and culture, Alkuwari’s lens has become one of Qatar’s most powerful instruments of achievement — pointing not inward, but outward, into the infinite. “World-class scientific artistry can emerge from right here in Qatar.” -BUSINESS LEADERS QATAR
Qatar Unveils Major Tech & Investment Reforms as Prime Minister Opens Web Summit Qatar 2026
Qatar’s ambition to become a leading global technology and innovation hub accelerated yesterday as HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, officially inaugurated the third edition of Web Summit Qatar, the MENA region’s fastest-growing technology event. The summit runs until 4 February at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, gathering global tech leaders, investors, founders, and policymakers. The opening ceremony marked a milestone moment for Qatar’s digital transformation agenda, with the government announcing a series of high-impact initiatives designed to expand the nation’s technology, entrepreneurship, AI, and investment ecosystems. USD 2 Billion Expansion of the Fund of Funds Programme In one of the summit’s most significant announcements, Qatar confirmed a USD 2 billion expansion of its national Fund of Funds programme, which supports venture capital firms and high-growth startups across strategic sectors. This expansion strengthens Qatar’s position as a global capital hub and sends a clear signal to international investors seeking a stable, innovation-driven market. 10-Year Residency for Entrepreneurs & Executives Qatar also announced a long-term 10-year residency scheme for: This new visa category aims to attract world-class talent and incentivise founders to build and scale their companies from Qatar — a major step in advancing the country’s competitiveness on the global innovation map. Faster, Simplified Company Registration As part of ongoing reforms to improve the ease of doing business, Qatar introduced accelerated company registration procedures, enabling startups and investors to establish operations faster and more efficiently. These improvements reinforce Qatar’s goal of becoming one of the world’s most business-friendly jurisdictions, especially for early-stage and scaling companies. Launch of Qai — Qatar’s National AI Company Another headline announcement was the launch of Qai, Qatar’s new national AI company, signalling a powerful move to position the nation at the center of global AI development. Qai will focus on: The initiative aligns with Qatar’s broader national strategy to integrate AI across education, industry, energy, healthcare, mobility, and smart cities. A Transformational Edition of Web Summit Qatar With thousands of global delegates, investors, and startups converging in Doha, Web Summit Qatar 2026 is on track to become the region’s most influential gathering for: This year’s edition cements Qatar’s rise as one of the world’s most dynamic markets for entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and investment.
Dana Al Fardan Bridges Qatari Heritage & Sardinian Culture in “The Song of the Two Seas”
In a landmark intercultural performance titled “The Song of the Two Seas”, celebrated Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan brought the essence of Qatari musical heritage to the prestigious Teatro Lirico di Cagliari in Italy. Presented on New Year’s Eve 2025, the concert marked a defining artistic exchange between Qatar and Sardinia, uniting two coastal cultures shaped by the sea. A Cultural Bridge Between Qatar and Sardinia Under the direction of renowned maestro Giovanni Pasini, the evening introduced audiences to a sophisticated 75-minute programme fusing orchestral mastery with Qatari traditional motifs. The performance brought together: Al Fardan’s selections—including works from Tempest, Nadir, and the lullaby “Andimironnai”—were woven seamlessly with pieces by Glinka and Ezio Bosso. Maestro Pasini also premiered a new choral arrangement of Tempest, dedicated to the opera choir. The Sounding Stones: A Sonic Signature A highlight of the night was the integration of the legendary Sounding Stones by the late Sardinian sculptor Pinuccio Sciola. Played live by Maria Sciola and Andrea Granitzio, the stones emitted ancient, metallic resonances that merged naturally with Al Fardan’s contemporary orchestration. Al Fardan described this experience as “absorbing the frequency of the land,” blending Qatari rhythms with Sardinia’s geological soundscape. A Night of Prestigious Attendance The concert drew significant distinguished guests, including: Their presence underscored the growing cultural and diplomatic bridge between Qatar and Sardinia. Dana Al Fardan: Expanding Qatari Music to Global Stages As the first female Qatari composer to integrate traditional folk elements—especially Fijiri, the music of Qatari pearl divers—into orchestral compositions, Al Fardan continues to shape a distinctive artistic voice. Her cinematic album Tempest, recorded with over 100 musicians, explores global seafaring narratives threaded through Qatari heritage, reinforcing the universality of human stories shaped by the sea. Her international successes include: A Prelude to Deeper Cultural Collaboration Reflecting on the night, Al Fardan noted that “shared human values and a shared appreciation for the arts are laying the foundations for broader cultural integration.” The performance served not only as a celebration of artistic exchange but as a forward-looking signal for future collaborations across tourism, enterprise, and the creative industries between Sardinia and Qatar.
QIA and Goldman Sachs Sign Landmark MoU Targeting $25 Billion Investment, Strengthening Qatar’s Global Financial Influence
In one of the most significant financial announcements of 2026, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Goldman Sachs Asset Management have signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding their strategic partnership and unlocking a combined investment target of $25 billion. The agreement marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s growing stature as a regional and global financial hub, reinforcing the nation’s long-term strategy to drive economic diversification, attract foreign investment, and strengthen private-sector growth. According to a statement released by QIA, the sovereign wealth fund intends to commit capital across Goldman Sachs’ flagship funds, innovative alternative investment strategies, and selected co-investment opportunities. The partnership expands QIA’s role as an anchor investor across multiple Goldman Sachs Asset Management platforms, giving Qatar preferential access to global deal flow in future-forward sectors, including: This move solidifies Qatar’s position as a leading institutional investor in high-growth global markets. As part of the expanded cooperation, Goldman Sachs will enhance its presence in Doha, building out its capabilities as a strategic asset management hub for the region. Through its global Value Accelerator network, Goldman Sachs will support Qatar in: This partnership aligns closely with Qatar’s ambitions to become a regional leader in alternative investments, innovation-led industries, and financial services. Commenting on the agreement, Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “QIA is pleased to partner with Goldman Sachs in this landmark agreement. It provides QIA with premium deal flow in sectors critical to our investment strategy, including AI, fintech, digital infrastructure and private credit. This partnership extends beyond capital deployment and reinforces Doha’s position as a regional financial center.” He further noted that Goldman Sachs’ commitment to expanding its Doha presence will support job creation, specialized skills development, and long-term economic value for Qatar. David Solomon, Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs, emphasized Qatar’s strong momentum: “Qatar is on an exciting path of economic diversification, developing its capital markets, strengthening its talent base, and expanding its ecosystem of national champions. This creates substantial opportunity to widen Qatar’s global connectivity and impact as a multi-faceted investment partner.” Goldman Sachs stands among the world’s leading alternative investment managers, with: Its Value Accelerator Network will now work closely with Qatari institutions and the wider ecosystem to build enduring, globally competitive businesses. The QIA–Goldman Sachs MoU represents more than a financial partnership—it positions Doha as a rising global center for asset management, sovereign investment, and cross-border financial collaboration. With a $25 billion target fueling this strategic alliance, Qatar is poised to accelerate high-impact investments and strengthen its role in shaping the future of global finance.
QSTP and Merck Launch FemTech Accelerator to Advance Women’s Health Innovation Across MENA
Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, has announced a strategic partnership with Merck to launch the QSTP x Merck FemTech Accelerator—a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating innovation in women’s health across the Middle East and North Africa. The dedicated accelerator will identify and support up to 30 FemTech startups developing deep-tech, impact-driven solutions addressing critical unmet needs in women’s health. The programme focuses on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and materials science, supporting startups from early validation through to commercial expansion. Selected companies will gain access to QSTP’s innovation ecosystem and Merck’s global scientific and healthcare expertise, benefiting from curated mentorship, clinically aligned pilot opportunities, and structured market-entry pathways into Qatar, with scalability across regional and international markets. The accelerator is designed not only to support individual ventures, but also to generate measurable, trackable impact at scale, aligned with Qatar Foundation’s mission to improve health outcomes for women. Through a multi-country approach, the accelerator enables FemTech solutions to be piloted, validated, and adopted across multiple markets, addressing women’s health challenges at both regional and global levels. Startups will also engage with key stakeholders from Qatar’s healthcare ecosystem, including clinicians, regulators, investors, and innovation leaders. Commenting on the launch, Rama Chakaki, President of QSTP, said the accelerator reflects QSTP’s commitment to inclusive innovation and scalable impact. Meanwhile, Ahmed Aboelfadl, General Manager Gulf at Merck, highlighted the urgent need to address women’s health gaps through science- and technology-led solutions. The programme includes an intensive two-week immersion in Doha, equipping founders with market insights, regulatory understanding, and commercial readiness. Together, QSTP and Merck aim to position Qatar as a regional and global hub for women’s health innovation, advancing one of the fastest-growing sectors in global health technology.
