QATAR’S GLOBAL CARBON COUNCIL SIGNS LANDMARK FOUR-PARTY MOU AT IETA ASIA CLIMATE SUMMIT 2026
Qatar’s independent carbon standard takes centre stage in Hong Kong as cross-border cooperation reshapes Asia’s voluntary carbon markets In a defining moment for Qatar’s growing influence in the global climate economy, the Global Carbon Council — an independent, internationally recognised carbon standard established in Qatar — signed a landmark four-party Memorandum of Understanding at the IETA Asia Climate Summit 2026, held from 7 to 9 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The agreement, signed alongside Wuhan Carbon Inclusion Management Limited Company, CGS International Holdings Limited, and HKCRSB Limited, establishes a comprehensive cooperation framework spanning cross-border carbon methodology recognition, registry coordination, carbon credit registration, carbon finance facilitation, and transparent data exchange. For Qatar, this is more than a bilateral agreement. It is a statement of global ambition. A QATARI STANDARD GOING GLOBAL The Global Carbon Council was founded in Qatar with a clear mission — to develop high-integrity carbon standards that serve the Global South and emerging markets worldwide. Today, that mission is being realised at the highest level of international climate cooperation. Under the terms of the MoU, GCC-approved methodologies will serve as the international benchmark for urban climate action across participating markets — beginning with Hubei Province in China, with the ambition to scale across Asia and beyond. The agreement also establishes a cross-border methodology committee to review, recommend, and periodically publish approved methodologies, ensuring alignment with international best practices across both voluntary and compliance carbon markets. Speaking at the signing, Dr. Yousef M. Alhorr, Founding Chairman of the Global Carbon Council, said the MoU represents a meaningful step toward strengthening cooperation between international carbon standards, domestic implementation systems, and carbon finance platforms. “By supporting high-integrity methodology development for urban climate action, registry coordination and transparent data exchange, we aim to enhance the credibility, visibility and integrity of carbon market participation — initially in Hubei Province, and contribute to broader climate action across Asia in support of the Paris Agreement,” Dr. Alhorr stated. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR QATAR’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY For business leaders, investors, and sustainability professionals across Qatar and the GCC, the significance of this agreement extends well beyond the signing ceremony. Qatar’s carbon standard is now shaping how emission reductions are measured, verified, and traded across one of the world’s fastest-growing carbon market corridors. As global pressure mounts on corporations to demonstrate credible climate action, having a Qatari institution at the centre of international carbon market architecture positions the country as a trusted bridge between the Global South, the Gulf, and Asia’s rapidly evolving climate economy. The MoU also opens a pathway toward Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement — the framework for transferring Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes across borders — with Qatar’s Carbon Market Infrastructure potentially playing a central role in that process. In a region increasingly focused on energy transition, economic diversification, and sustainability-aligned investment, the Global Carbon Council’s expanding global footprint reinforces Qatar’s credentials as a serious, forward-looking player in the net-zero economy. LOOKING AHEAD The four parties will now explore deeper data cooperation between the GCC’s Carbon Market Infrastructure and the Wuhan Carbon Inclusion registry system — including project metadata visibility, synchronisation of registration status, and sharing of cancellation records to enhance traceability and prevent double counting across participating markets. As carbon markets evolve from policy ambition to practical implementation, the Global Carbon Council’s growing international reach ensures that Qatar remains not just a participant in that conversation — but one of its most trusted architects.
Qatar–Poland Economic Partnership Gains Momentum as Bilateral Trade Reaches US$1.4 Billion
Doha, Qatar: The economic partnership between Qatar and Poland continues to gain momentum, with bilateral trade reaching nearly US$1.4 billion in 2025, reflecting the growing depth of cooperation between the two countries across energy, investment, logistics, tourism, startups and scientific exchange. In an exclusive conversation with Business Leaders Magazine, His Excellency Tomasz Sadziński, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the State of Qatar, discussed the strength of Qatar–Poland relations, Poland’s economic rise, the strategic role of LNG cooperation, and the opportunities ahead for both countries. A Stronger Qatar–Poland Business Corridor According to H E Sadziński, the economic partnership between Qatar and Poland remains vibrant and increasingly strategic. Bilateral trade in 2025 reached almost US$1.4 billion, equivalent to approximately QR5.1 billion. Qatari data also showed that exports from Poland to Qatar reached around US$240 million, equivalent to QR873.6 million, during the same year. The Ambassador noted that the relationship between the two countries has grown beyond traditional diplomacy, supported by high-level political engagement, business forums, direct connectivity and stronger private-sector interest. The visit of His Highness The Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Poland in July 2024, accompanied by a large business forum, marked an important milestone in strengthening bilateral relations. Poland’s Economic Rise Poland has emerged as one of Europe’s strongest economic performers. Since its transition to a market economy in the 1990s, the country has recorded significant long-term growth, supported by its accession to NATO in 1999 and the European Union in 2004. H E Sadziński highlighted that since 1990, Poland’s GDP has increased seven-fold, while exports have grown 30 times in volume. In terms of GDP per capita based on purchasing power parity, Poland has also surpassed the United Kingdom — a development that would have been difficult to imagine decades ago. Despite global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, Poland’s economy grew by 3.5 percent in 2025, around two percentage points above the EU average. The year also marked a major milestone as Poland joined the group of US$1 trillion economies. Looking ahead, Poland — a market of around 38 million consumers — is expected to be the fastest-growing economy in the European Union in 2026, with growth estimated at 3.7 percent. Energy as the Strategic Cornerstone Energy remains one of the most important pillars of Qatar–Poland cooperation. Poland imports almost 3 billion cubic metres of LNG from Qatar annually, making Qatari LNG a key part of Poland’s energy security strategy. In 2025, the value of LNG delivered from Qatar to Poland exceeded US$960 million, equivalent to approximately QR3.5 billion. H E Sadziński noted that Qatar played an important role in helping Poland diversify its energy supply. Qatar delivered the first non-Russian gas shipment to Poland in December 2015, helping the country move away from full dependence on Russian supplies. Poland is also expanding its LNG import capacity from the current 8 bcm to 14.4 bcm by 2028, underlining the continued importance of LNG in the country’s energy mix. At the same time, the Ambassador pointed to major opportunities for Qatar and Poland to cooperate in renewable energy. Between 2000 and 2023, Poland’s electricity generation from solar and wind rose from zero to 35 TWh, accounting for 21 percent of total electricity production. Poland plans to invest around US$250 billion in its energy sector by 2036, including renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power and distribution networks. Investment Opportunities Across Key Sectors Beyond energy, Poland and Qatar are looking at new areas of cooperation in investment, logistics, food security and technology. Poland has long been a regional leader in attracting foreign direct investment, receiving around US$400 billion in FDI since 1989. At the same time, Polish outward investment is also rising, exceeding US$40 billion so far. In 2025 alone, Polish companies announced 22 acquisitions in Western Europe, reflecting the growing international confidence and ambition of Polish businesses. H E Sadziński said this is an opportune moment for Qatar and Poland to accelerate joint investments. In November 2025, the Embassy of Poland in Doha hosted the Poland–Qatar Investment Forum, in cooperation with business entities including the Qatari Businessmen Association. During the forum, Invest Qatar and the Polish Investment and Trade Agency signed an MoU to strengthen cooperation. Further momentum followed in 2026, with an Invest Qatar delegation visiting Poland to attend the European Economic Congress and network with Polish businesses in Warsaw. Representatives of Qatar’s investment sector also participated in the ElevenLabs Summit in Warsaw. Food Security and Logistics Food security is another growing area of cooperation between Qatar and Poland. The launch of Lulu Group’s regional sourcing centre in Poland in April 2026 was highlighted as an important sign of Poland’s growing relevance to Qatar’s food security ecosystem. Poland’s logistics ambitions are also gaining attention. The country is developing Port Polska, a major international communications and logistics hub valued at US$32.5 billion, designed to link air, rail and road routes in central Poland. This project could strengthen Poland’s role as a gateway between Europe, the Gulf and wider international markets. Poland’s Startup Strength Poland is also positioning itself as a major startup and innovation hub in Europe. According to H E Sadziński, there are more than 3,500 startups across Central and Eastern Europe, with almost a quarter based in Poland. Since early 2024, early-stage Polish companies have raised more than €165 million, the highest level in the region. By the first quarter of 2025, their combined value had climbed to €58 billion, ahead of neighbouring countries. Poland’s startup ecosystem is supported by a strong technology workforce. The country has around 600,000 software developers, with thousands more entering the labour market every year. In 2023, more than 70,000 students were enrolled in ICT-related disciplines. The Ambassador highlighted successful Polish innovation companies such as ElevenLabs, CD Projekt, Brainly, DocPlanner, Booksy, BLIK, IceEye and InPost as examples of Poland’s growing global technology profile. He said Poland’s ambition is clear: to become the Silicon Valley of Europe. Academic and Scientific Cooperation Education, research and youth mobility are also becoming important
QEWC Rebrands as Nebras Energy, Marking a New Era of Growth in Qatar’s Energy Sector
Qatar Electricity & Water Company (QEWC) has officially rebranded as Nebras Energy, signalling a major strategic evolution built on a 35-year legacy of powering Qatar’s electricity and water security and more than a decade of international expansion. Listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange, the transformation represents more than a name change. It reflects a forward-looking vision designed to position Nebras Energy as a more agile, globally oriented energy company while preserving continuity, stability, and stakeholder trust. From National Utility to Global Energy Platform Established by Amiri Decree No. 58 of 1990, QEWC has played a foundational role in supporting Qatar’s rapid economic and social development. Over the past three decades, it has grown into one of the largest power and water utility companies in the MENA region, with a diversified asset base spanning domestic and international markets. Under its new identity, Nebras Energy emerges as a brand that reflects flexibility, resilience, and long-term ambition—aligning with Qatar’s broader energy transition and global investment strategy. Leadership Vision for the Next Chapter Commenting on the rebranding, H.E. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Chairman of Nebras Energy, said the company has been a cornerstone of Qatar’s electricity and water security for more than three decades, extending its reach across global markets. He noted that the move to Nebras Energy represents a decisive step toward broader horizons of growth and development, supported by a new visual identity that clearly reflects the company’s future vision. He also praised the leadership, executive management, and employees for their continued commitment to strengthening Qatar’s international energy partnerships and advancing sustainable growth. Ensuring Continuity While Accelerating Growth Marking this pivotal milestone, Managing Director and CEO Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri emphasised that the rebranding reinforces the company’s core mission while positioning it for long-term success. He highlighted that the transition ensures seamless business continuity, honours all existing commitments, and strengthens the company’s role in advancing Qatar’s electricity and water sector. Strong Assets, Global Reach Nebras Energy’s portfolio in Qatar reflects a robust and diversified production base, supported by joint ventures and Nebras Power, its wholly owned international investment arm. The company’s operational capacity currently stands at: These assets underpin Qatar’s energy and water security while supporting Nebras Energy’s growing international footprint. Governance and Next Steps The company’s new visual identity and rebranding will be presented to shareholders at an Extraordinary General Assembly meeting on 8 January 2026, where final approval will be sought. A Future-Focused Energy Leader As Nebras Energy, the company enters a new chapter aligned with Qatar’s long-term economic and energy objectives—focused on sustainable growth, international investment, and reliable infrastructure delivery. The transformation reinforces Qatar’s position as a trusted global energy partner and highlights how legacy institutions can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing energy landscape.
Msheireb Properties’ CEO Wins “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025
Msheireb Properties — Qatar’s trailblazing sustainable real estate developer — has once again raised the benchmark for the global built-environment sector. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Ali Al Kuwari has been honoured as “Sustainability Leader of the Year” at the Big 5 Global Impact Awards 2025, held at Address Sky View in Downtown Dubai. The Big 5 Global Impact Awards, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, celebrate global excellence in green construction, digital transformation, smart cities, and innovation. The accolade is judged by an independent international panel that recognises projects and leaders shaping the future of the built environment. A Visionary at the Helm of Qatar’s Greenest Urban Development The award recognises Eng. Al Kuwari’s pivotal leadership in driving Msheireb Properties’ sustainability vision—including the creation of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first fully sustainable downtown regeneration project, and one of the most ambitious smart city models globally. Speaking on the award, Eng. Al Kuwari said: “Sustainability is not a goal—it is the foundation of everything we design, build and preserve. From mobility and urban planning to heritage conservation and community wellbeing, our mission is to create spaces that are resilient, inclusive, intelligent and future-ready. This recognition reflects Msheireb Properties’ belief that sustainability is a holistic commitment embedded into every brick, every story and every experience we curate.” A Continued Legacy of Global Recognition This milestone builds on Msheireb Properties’ historic achievements at the 2024 Big 5 Global Impact Awards, where: Together, these accomplishments reaffirm Msheireb Properties’ role as a global leader in sustainable urban development, cultural preservation, and smart-city innovation. Driving Qatar’s Decarbonisation and Smart City Transformation Under Eng. Al Kuwari’s leadership, 2025 saw the launch of Qatar’s first large-scale portfolio decarbonisation strategy, covering over 100 buildings across Msheireb Downtown Doha. This transformative initiative accelerates Qatar’s path toward: Msheireb Downtown Doha has become a global showcase for: Its pioneering model is now referenced across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as a blueprint for future-ready cities. A Moment of Pride for Qatar The award reinforces Qatar’s rise as a regional sustainability leader, fully aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, and positions Msheireb Properties as a key catalyst advancing: • • Innovation-led economic growth
MWC25 Doha Spotlights MENA’s Rising Global Influence in Digital Transformation
The inaugural GSMA MWC25 Doha, held in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), has officially opened, uniting global leaders across government, technology, telecommunications, AI, and digital infrastructure. The landmark event underscores the Middle East and North Africa region’s accelerating digital transformation—projected to unlock US$470 billion in economic value by 2030. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, MWC Doha was inaugurated with an official ceremony attended by the GSMA’s Vivek Badrinath and John Hoffman, marking the first-ever MWC edition hosted in the MENA region. A Defining Moment for MENA’s Digital Future Across the Gulf and wider MENA region, governments and enterprises are driving sweeping digital transformation strategies powered by AI, 5G, cloud computing, satellite networks, and intelligent infrastructure.MWC25 Doha serves as a dynamic hub for collaboration, business acceleration, and future-focused dialogue—bringing together the world’s most influential technology companies, innovators, policymakers, and digital economy leaders. On the show floor and in expert-led summits, discussions spotlight how next-generation technologies are reshaping key sectors including: GSMA Leadership Remarks Vivek Badrinath, Director General, GSMA, emphasized regional momentum:“MWC Doha represents a major moment for MENA and the global connectivity community. Across the region, we see world-class investment in networks, AI, and digital services. This ambition is creating new opportunities for societies and economies. At the same time, large parts of the region remain offline, and closing that gap must be a shared priority.” Qatar’s Vision for Global Digital Leadership H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, reinforced the significance of hosting MWC in Doha:“MWC25 Doha reaffirms the growing prominence of the Middle East and North Africa within the global telecommunications landscape. It provides a wider platform for engagement with industry leaders, enabling alignment with cutting-edge advancements that will strengthen the region’s readiness for the next phase of connectivity.” Key Insights from GSMA’s Newly Released Reports Two flagship GSMA reports launched at MWC25 Doha—the Mobile Economy MENA 2025 report and Accelerating Digital Industries in the GCC & MENA—highlight transformative trends: Major Findings The insights confirm that Qatar ranks among the world’s highest adopters of AI, big data, and private 5G within enterprises. Driving an Inclusive Digital Economy While Gulf nations lead globally in advanced connectivity, more than 340 million people across MENA remain offline despite coverage availability.MWC25 Doha serves as a platform to accelerate digital inclusion through: Through its GSMA Mobile for Development initiatives, the GSMA continues to work with governments and industry stakeholders to bridge digital divides and empower underserved communities.
EDGE Announced as Main Sponsor of DIMDEX 2026
A Strategic Partnership Strengthening Qatar’s Role as a Global Hub for Defence Innovation The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has officially announced EDGE, one of the world’s leading advanced technology groups, as the Main Sponsor of its ninth edition, taking place from 19–22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Qatar Armed Forces, DIMDEX 2026 is hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces under the theme:“A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow.” EDGE Joins as Main Sponsor for the First Time Participating for the first time, EDGE’s sponsorship underscores the growing global appeal of DIMDEX as a leading international platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies, advanced maritime solutions, and strategic industry partnerships. The agreement marks a major milestone for both organisations, reinforcing Qatar’s leadership in defence innovation and expanding EDGE’s footprint in the regional and global defence market. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence in the presence of: Building Strategic Defence Partnerships His Excellency Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai stated: “Through collaboration with regional partners, we aim to anticipate emerging challenges and deploy advanced solutions, building a resilient and secure future grounded in collective progress. Strengthening regional security demands strong partnerships and shared expertise.” Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari added: “We are delighted to welcome EDGE as our Main Sponsor. DIMDEX provides the perfect global stage for EDGE to showcase its advanced defence technologies, enhance regional capabilities, and open new commercial and innovation-driven opportunities.” EDGE: Redefining Defence Innovation Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, commented: “Joining DIMDEX 2026 as the Main Sponsor marks a key step in EDGE’s journey to lead in advanced defence and maritime technologies. Our participation reflects our ambition to drive innovation, strengthen regional collaboration, and deliver solutions designed for global export.” Launched in 2019 in the UAE, EDGE has become a global powerhouse in 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) defence technologies, focusing on autonomous systems, smart weapons, electronic warfare, and naval systems — shaping the future of global defence innovation. DIMDEX: A Decade of Global Defence Excellence Now in its ninth edition, DIMDEX stands among the most prominent international maritime defence and security events, connecting industry leaders, governments, and innovators. Beyond its exhibition floor, DIMDEX serves as a strategic platform for high-level dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, advancing Qatar’s position as a global hub for security and innovation. With a focus on investment, sustainability, and advanced technologies, DIMDEX 2026 continues to showcase Qatar’s commitment to shaping the future of defence innovation and supporting global stability.
The Ministry of Municipality and Mowasalat (Karwa) Collaborate on a Tree-Planting Initiative to Foster Environmental Sustainability
As part of Mowasalat (Karwa)’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the enhancement of green spaces, the company, in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality, organized a tree-planting event at Mesaimeer bus depot. The event was held on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, in the presence of HE Sheikh Suhaim Al-Thani, the Senior Representative of the Municipality and Environment, Public Parks Department, and Mr. Khalid Al Kaabi, Mowasalat (Karwa) HSSE Director. This initiative aims to increase green spaces and raise environmental awareness int the society. It is part of Mowasalat (Karwa) endeavours to reduce carbon emissions, as 350 trees of different types have been planted to help absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide and improve air quality. The trees planted were carefully selected to include species suitable for the local environment, such as sidr and jujube trees, Assyrian plum, mulberry, Indian almond, lemon, tamarind, and other plant species. These trees contribute to providing shade, lowering temperatures in surrounding areas, as well as promoting biodiversity and supporting wildlife. This initiative garnered significant participation from Mowasalat (Karwa) drivers, who made a concerted effort to plant the trees themselves. Additionally, they showed a strong interest in understanding the essential information about tree varieties and the best care practices, demonstrating their commitment to environmental and social responsibility and their role in the success of the initiative. To ensure maximum benefit from the initiative, identification plaques were installed for each tree using weather-resistant materials, to spread awareness and knowledge about the types of trees planted and their role in improving the quality of life. This event embodies our dedication to sustainability and preserving the environment, forming an essential part of our vision for a greener future for the coming generations.
Dubai Supreme Council of Energy launches 5th Emirates Energy Award 2023–2025 in Doha
Doha, Qatar – Dubai, United Arab Emirates, February 12, 2025: The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy announced today the launch of the 5th cycle of the Emirates Energy Award (2023–2025) in Qatar during a press conference held at The St. Regis Doha. The conference was attended by Mr. Hussein Al Naqbi, Head of the Economic, Political, and Media Section at the UAE Embassy in Qatar, along with representatives from the energy and environmental sectors, private and academic institutions, and various media outlets. Also participating in the conference were Mr. Taher Diab, Secretary-General of the Emirates Energy Award, and Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Media, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Vice Chairman of the Marketing and Events Committee of Emirates Energy Award (EEA). HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of Emirates Energy Award (EEA), stated: “We are pleased to launch the 5th cycle of the Emirates Energy Award (2023–2025) under the theme ‘Empowering Carbon Neutrality’ in Qatar, a country that plays a pivotal role in supporting regional and global efforts to accelerate the transition to clean and renewable energy. This initiative aligns with the award’s objectives of fostering innovation and promoting the use of creative technologies to address climate change challenges and enhance sustainability.” His Excellency added: “The Emirates Energy Award has successfully attracted outstanding submissions from various countries, with Qatar contributing a significant share of innovative energy solutions. We look forward to receiving more valuable projects from Qatar in this new cycle, further supporting efforts to tackle climate change challenges and promote sustainable development.” During the conference, Mr. Ali Al Suwaidi highlighted the importance of the Emirates Energy Award in recognizing the efforts of both the public and private sectors in the fields of energy efficiency, sustainable energy projects, education, and scientific research, while also encouraging key contributors in this vital sector. Al Suwaidi concluded by expressing his gratitude and appreciation to all attendees, including officials, institutions, partners, and media representatives. He also commended Qatar’s pivotal role in supporting sustainability and renewable energy initiatives at the regional and international levels. For his part, Mr. Taher Diab provided a detailed overview of the Emirates Energy Award, its objectives, and its various categories, which have established it as a global platform in the energy sector. He explained that the award aims to highlight best practices in energy efficiency and innovation, promote the use of renewable energy, and drive positive economic and environmental impact. The Emirates Energy Award serves as a global platform for public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to showcase their achievements and initiatives in energy management and conservation, while highlighting their contributions to the use of clean and renewable energy sources. It also seeks to support development and innovation in the energy sector and raise awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability. The Emirates Energy Award has invited the public and private sectors, as well as the academic community and youth in Qatar, to participate in its 5th cycle. Applications can be submitted through the official website: https://emiratesenergyaward.com/ . Additionally, details about the award categories can be accessed via the following link: https://emiratesenergyaward.com/ar/about-eea/#award-categories-about .
GORD develops Gulf region’s first Sustainable Construction Code
Riyadh, KSA – February 04, 2025: Having developed the GCC region’s first-ever Sustainable Construction Code, the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) — a subsidiary of Qatari Diar Real estate Investment Company — has signed an agreement with the GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) for integrating the code into the wider Gulf Building Code. The agreement was formalized by Dr. Yousef Bin Mohammed Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD, and His Excellency Engineer Nawaf bin Ibrahim Al-Hamad Al-Mana, President of GSO, at GSO headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Gulf Building Code, endorsed by the Ministries of Municipalities and Urban Planning in Gulf States, serves as a comprehensive framework guiding building and construction practices across the Gulf region. The newly developed Sustainable Construction Code, created by experts at GORD -headquartered at Qatar Science & Technology Park- draws on the success of GORD’s flagship Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), developed as the first performance based green buildings rating system in MENA region, will significantly contribute to the Gulf’s transition to more sustainable urban landscapes. The Sustainable Construction Code serves as a vital intergovernmental tool, aiming to promote sustainable practices across a broad spectrum. It establishes a baseline set of green building criteria for a diverse range of construction projects, addressing various facets of sustainability. Initially conceived in 2010, the project was entrusted to GORD, leveraging its extensive expertise and leadership in the sustainability domain. Speaking about the document, Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD, said, “We take immense pride in GORD’s instrumental contribution to the Gulf Building Code by developing the first unified Sustainable Construction Code for the region. This achievement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing sustainability and promoting a more environmentally conscious future for the Gulf nations. The Code is designed to ensure wider accessibility and adoption, ultimately promoting the creation of sustainable urban landscapes throughout the region. At the same time, it serves as a starting point toward a holistic green building framework in the future, where sustainability becomes deeply integrated into every facet of the regional building and construction industry.” His Excellency Engineer Nawaf bin Ibrahim Al-Hamad Al-Mana, President of GSO, said, “Green buildings play a crucial role in helping the GCC region achieve its climate goals by significantly reducing energy consumption, carbon emissions and resource use. To this end, the Sustainable Construction Code represents GCC countries’ vision for a greener, more sustainable future. We are certain that this unified framework will pave the way for a region-wide transformation of the construction industry, where sustainability is not just an option, but an integral part of every project.” Covering over 115 pages, the Sustainable Construction Code offers a multifaceted approach with the flexibility of both prescriptive and performance-based assessments. While its core principles are derived from the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) green building framework, Sustainable Construction Code represents a simplified version with reduced requirements. The 55 criteria are narrowed down to 22, each representing key performance indicators (KPI’s) for sustainable buildings. This deliberate simplification ensures ease of adoption and enforceability across all Gulf countries. The Code is designed to be accessible to a broad audience, reducing the need for specialized expertise and complex simulations. The Code is structured into six core chapters. These chapters cover various aspects of sustainable construction, including guidelines for efficient land utilization and infrastructure planning in Site Planning and Use, recommendations for sustainable and eco-friendly building materials in Material Selection, strategies to optimize energy usage within buildings and promote energy efficiency in Energy Conservation and Efficiency, guidelines for water resource conservation and efficient water use in Water Conservation and Efficiency, a focus on ensuring healthy and comfortable indoor environments in Indoor Environmental Quality, and an emphasis on preserving cultural and historical aspects in building design and construction in Heritage and Cultural Identity. As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) endeavors to transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future, the Sustainable Construction Code represents a pivotal element in these efforts, shaping the future of construction in the region. At the same time, it underscores the commitment of the GORD and GSO to promote sustainability, advance regional development, and secure a more sustainable future for the Gulf region.
Qatar’s Economy Projected to Grow 2% in 2024, Driven by Tourism and Construction
Doha: Qatar’s economy is forecasted to grow by 2% in 2024, bolstered by stability in the hydrocarbon sector and robust growth in non-oil industries such as tourism and construction, according to Roberta Gatti, the World Bank’s Chief Economist for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Gatti attributed the growth to a strong start to the year in the tourism sector and the pivotal role of construction in driving non-oil economic activity. Qatar’s ongoing diversification initiatives, aligned with its third National Development Plan, are targeting sectors like tourism and IT to broaden the country’s economic base. Hydrocarbon Sector and LNG ExpansionWhile hydrocarbons remain a cornerstone of Qatar’s economy, Gatti highlighted the sector’s anticipated surge starting in 2026, when new liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects begin production. These developments are expected to significantly enhance Qatar’s long-term economic growth. Regional Growth OutlookFor the broader MENA region, the World Bank projects a moderate growth rate of 2.2% in 2024, up from 1.8% in 2023, with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries leading the uptick. GCC economies are expected to see growth rise to 1.9% in 2024, driven by non-oil sector expansion, despite ongoing oil production cuts. Key Regional Highlights:Saudi Arabia: Non-oil private sector growth is projected at 4.4%, contributing to 51% of its economy in 2024.Developing Oil Importers: Growth is expected to slow to 2.1% in 2024, compared to 3.2% in 2023.Developing Oil Exporters: Growth is forecasted to decline from 3.2% in 2023 to 2.7% in 2024, with recovery expected in 2025.Challenges and Long-Term ProspectsGatti warned of challenges, including oil production limits, global economic uncertainties, and potential regional conflicts, which could dampen short-term growth. However, she forecasts an acceleration in MENA’s overall growth to 3.8% in 2025, driven by strengthened GCC economies, expected to grow at 4.2%. Qatar’s Diversified Growth PathQatar’s focus on developing its non-oil sectors, coupled with its strategic investments in LNG expansion, positions the country for sustained economic resilience and long-term growth. credit by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
