Air Arabia Reports Record AED 1.6 Billion Profit Before Tax in 2024
February 13, 2025: Air Arabia (PJSC), the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator in the Middle East and North Africa, today announced its financial and operational results for the full year ending December 31, 2024. The airline posted a record pre-tax net profit of AED 1.6 billion, reflecting a 4% increase compared to AED 1.5 billion in 2023. Total turnover for the year surpassed AED 6.63 billion, marking an 11% growth from AED 6 billion in 2023. In 2024, Air Arabia reinforced its commitment to expansion and operational excellence by growing its network across six hubs and adding 31 new routes. This strategic expansion led to a 13% increase in operational capacity and a 12% rise in total passengers carried, reaching 18.8 million across the group. The airline also reported a 2% increase in average seat load factor, reaching 82%, further underscoring the sustained strong demand for Air Arabia’s value-driven, low-cost services. Full Year 2024 Performance: AED FY 2024 FY 2023 % Revenue AED 6.63 billion AED 6 billion 11% Passenger Numbers*all hubs* 18.8 million 16.7 million 12% Seat Load Factor 82% 80% 2% Net Profit Before Tax AED 1.6 billion AED 1.54 billion 4% Net Profit After Tax AED 1.46 billion – – Air Arabia’s Board of Directors has proposed a dividend distribution of 25% of share capital, equivalent to 25 fils per share. This proposal was made during a recent board meeting and is subject to approval by Air Arabia’s shareholders at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohamed Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said: “2024 has been a record-breaking year for Air Arabia Group, marked by significant expansion and an increased footprint across all key markets. Building on our strong foundation, we have continued to achieve remarkable financial and operational growth, reaffirming the strength of our business model, the resilience of our management team, and the effectiveness of our strategic vision.” He continued: “Despite the geopolitical tensions and economic challenges impacting the region, Air Arabia Group has successfully sustained its strong growth trajectory in 2024. This was driven by increased operating capacity, the launch of new routes, and continued network expansion from all our hubs. We take great pride in our ability to deliver a value-driven travel experience to a growing customer base, strengthening our presence across global markets while maintaining operational excellence.” In the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024, Air Arabia reported a record net profit of AED 351 million, marking a 56% increase compared to AED 225 million in the same quarter last year. Total turnover for the fourth quarter of 2024 rose 7% to AED 1.65 billion, driven by an 11% increase in passenger numbers, as the airline carried over 4.7 million passengers across all hubs during the quarter. Meanwhile, the seat load factor increased by 2% reaching a strong 83%, reflecting sustained demand for Air Arabia’s services. Fourth Quarter 2024 Performance: AED Q4 2024 Q4 2023 % Revenue AED 1.65 billion AED 1.54 billion 7% Passenger Numbers*all hubs* 4.7 million 4.2 million 11% Seat Load Factor 83% 81% 2% Net Profit AED 351 million AED 225 million 56% Al Thani continued: ” “The fourth quarter of the year was remarkable for Air Arabia, as we successfully expanded our network while maintaining solid margins. This strategic growth, coupled with rigid cost control and strong operational efficiency, resulted in an outstanding performance for the quarter”. Full Year 2024 Highlights: Fleet Network Liquidity ESG Recognition Outlook Al Thani concluded: “As the global aviation industry continues to navigate challenges, including geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures, and supply chain disruptions, Air Arabia remains committed to growth and expansion. Our focus is on enhancing connectivity, increasing operational capacity, and providing our customers with the best options for affordable and value-driven air travel. We have full confidence in our unique business model, operational excellence, and customer-centric approach, which enable us to continuously expand our network and deliver a seamless travel experience to an ever-growing customer base.”
Gadget Guide: XREAL One Pro: Sleek AR glasses that turn any space into your personal cinema
Transform your entertainment experience with the XReal One Pro, a groundbreaking innovation in AR smart glasses that redefines immersive viewing. Enjoy stunning Full-HD visuals with a 57° field of view, 700 nits of brightness, and vibrant colours, powered by XReal’s advanced X1 spatial computing chip. Integrated Bose sound complements the visuals, ensuring rich and immersive audio and taking your entertainment to the next level. Designed for comfort, the XReal One Pro weighs just 87g and features an adjustable interpupillary distance, allowing a personalised fit for prolonged use. These glasses are available in two sizes, catering to IPD ranges of 57-66mm and 66-75mm, making them suitable for a broad audience. Future-ready, the XReal One Pro supports modular upgrades, such as the upcoming XReal Eye – a 12MP camera module that adds AI-enhanced capabilities and photo-capturing features. Whether you’re streaming movies, playing games, or exploring AR applications, the XReal One Pro delivers a seamless and immersive experience. Its lightweight design, exceptional visuals, and premium audio combine to create a wearable home theatre that fits in the palm of your hand. Elevate your entertainment experience with the XReal One Pro.
Premier Padel supports Match for Hope with charity tournament on National Sport Day
DOHA – 12 February 2025 – As part of Qatar’s National Sport Day celebrations, Premier Padel proudly supported the Match for Hope initiative by hosting a special charity tournament at its stunning courts at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Lusail. The event brought together some of the world’s most influential content creators, blending sports and entertainment to drive awareness and raise funds for Education Above All Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing quality education for marginalized communities worldwide. The star-studded tournament featured renowned figures and content creators including Mo Farah, Sharky, Oussifooty, David Vujanic, Futcrunch, Thogden, Thogdad, Manny Brown, Eman sv2, Taiyo Kimura, Triplefqatar, Bashar Arabi, Abood. Participants engaged in friendly competition, collaborated on exclusive content, and for some, experienced the excitement of playing padel for the first time. Beyond its charitable impact, this latest event further demonstrates Premier Padel’s ongoing commitment to growing the sport globally by introducing it to new audiences through high-profile events and experiences as demonstrated by the Premier Padel Legends tournament in November which saw sporting icons compete in Doha during the Qatar Grand Prix. Looking ahead, the Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour returns to Doha from April 14-19 for the prestigious Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel, welcoming the world’s best players to compete on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
MCIT Launches “Scale Now” Program to Empower Digital Entrepreneurs in Qatar
Doha, Qatar – February 10, 2025: As part of its efforts to strengthen the digital ecosystem for entrepreneurs and startups, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has launched the “Scale Now” program, the first of its kind in Qatar to support digital entrepreneurs. The program provides them with the necessary tools and mentorship to accelerate their business growth and expand into local, regional, and international markets. This initiative aligns with the ministry’s strategy to enhance the digital economy, supporting the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030 by fostering a thriving digital innovation environment and developing startups, positioning Qatar as a leading regional hub for the digital economy. The ” Scale Now” program is built on three core pillars designed to drive startup growth and empower entrepreneurs to achieve sustainable success. First, Capability Building & Mentorship, where participants receive intensive hands-on guidance from a distinguished network of global experts in entrepreneurship, business strategy, and operational management, helping them refine their business models and enhance their competitiveness. Second, Local Go-To-Market Support, which enables direct engagement with local market leaders, facilitating the establishment of strategic relationships and business partnerships to strengthen their presence in the Qatari business landscape. Lastly, Expansion Readiness Support, providing startups with the necessary tools and effective strategies to scale into regional and global markets, unlocking new growth and innovation opportunities on an international scale. In this regard, Mr. Faraj Jassim Abdulla, Director of the Digital Economy Department at MCIT, stated: ” Scale Now program represents a significant step in empowering digital entrepreneurs in Qatar, equipping them with the tools and guidance needed to scale their businesses and expand into local and global markets. This initiative reflects MCIT’s commitment to fostering startups and driving digital innovation, in alignment with the goals of the Digital Agenda 2030. Through Capability Building & Mentorship, Local Go-To-Market Support, and Expansion Readiness Support, “Scale Now” contributes to establishing Qatar as a regional hub for the digital economy and supports economic diversification by enabling startups to achieve long-term sustainability and growth.” The ministry has launched the first cohort of the “Scale Now” program, featuring six digital entrepreneurs from various sectors, reinforcing its commitment to supporting startups and enhancing digital innovation in the entrepreneurship sector. Future cohorts are planned to accommodate 15 entrepreneurs per six-month cycle, providing them with comprehensive support for scaling their businesses. The “Scale Now” program continues to welcome ambitious entrepreneurs, offering them an exceptional opportunity to benefit from a supportive environment that enhances their ability to achieve sustainable growth. The program seeks to attract startups that meet specific criteria, ensuring optimal utilization of its resources while strengthening Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. To qualify for the program, companies must be officially registered in Qatar, have a market-ready product or service, and demonstrate a clear ability to maintain continuous operations throughout the program duration. The initiative also prioritizes companies with a strategic vision for expansion within Qatar and strong readiness for regional and global growth. This initiative is part of MCIT’s broader efforts to promote digital innovation and enhance the digital entrepreneurship landscape, reaffirming its commitment to establishing Qatar as a global leader in the digital economy. The program provides a promising platform for local entrepreneurs to seize expansion opportunities in new markets. It is expected to drive startup growth, enhance their global competitiveness, and contribute to economic diversification, reinforcing the key pillars of the Digital Agenda 2030.
Cristiano Ronaldo attends Premier Padel tournament in Riyadh
Riaydh, – 10 February 2025 – Padel continues to capture the attention of global sports icons, with Cristiano Ronaldo among the spectators at the Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1, enjoying the top-level action on court. The Portuguese football legend followed the matches closely and celebrated the victory of his compatriots Miguel and Nuno Deus, who secured their place in the main draw with an impressive performance in the final round of qualifying. Ronaldo is the latest in a growing list of global sports stars drawn to Premier Padel and its elite-level competition. Last year, Neymar Jr. attended the Riyadh Premier Padel P1, while other football greats including Zlatan Ibrahimović, Esteban Cambiasso, Leandro Paredes, and Paulo Dybala have also shown their passion for the sport by recently attending tournaments. Beyond football, combat sports icons Khabib Nurmagomedov and Ilia Topuria have also attended Premier Padel tournaments. During the Qatar Grand Prix in 2024, sporting legends including Novak Djokovic, F1 world champion Max Verstappen, drivers Lando Norris, George Russell and Oscar Piastri, footballers Luis Figo and Marco Materazzi, and basketball’s Tony Parker attended a sporting legends tournament during the event, further highlighting Premier Padel’s appeal. The Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1 is the first tournament of the 2025 season, following an exceptional 2024 campaign that featured 24 tournaments across 16 countries. As part of Premier Padel’s continued global expansion, the event brings world-class padel to Saudi Arabia, with top international players battling for valuable ranking points and the first title of the season.
Sidra Medicine Celebrates Graduates of Certificate in Leadership Program at Georgetown University in Qatar
Empowering the Next Generation of Healthcare Leaders 5 February 2025, Doha, Qatar – In a closing ceremony at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), Sidra Medicine celebrated the achievements of 14 middle and senior managers who completed the newly launched Strategic Leadership Development Certificate Program offered by Georgetown University. In her remarks, Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, CEO of Sidra Medicine, gave a background on why she initiated the program and the outcome she hoped to achieve, saying, “Our partnership with GU-Q has been instrumental in strengthening our investment in the growth of our national talent. I am confident that together, we will continue advancing Qatar’s vision of cultivating a highly skilled, innovative, and capable workforce—one that will drive the nation’s healthcare and broader development goals forward.” In her message to the graduates, Dr. Kelly Otter, Dean of Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies highlighted the importance of strategic leadership in building a better world, saying, “Your dedication and hard work will not only advance the goals of Sidra Medicine, but also will serve your communities well by providing holistic, patient-centric care. Your contributions will ensure that precision medicine is an accessible reality for many in the Gulf region.” Aysha Al-Kuwari, Director of the Talent Management Division at Sidra Medicine, added, “Strong leadership is the backbone of any successful healthcare institution. Through this collaboration with GU-Q, our managers have gained the skills to lead with confidence, adaptability, and a patient-first mindset—qualities that will drive both individual and institutional success at Sidra Medicine.” Launched in May 2024, the Strategic Leadership Certificate Program featured a distinguished faculty lineup, combining academic insights from Georgetown University’s Department of Health Systems Management with practical expertise from experienced healthcare industry executives. This tailored approach ensured that the 14 certificate holders are prepared to apply global healthcare insights and practical strategies to Sidra Medicine’s unique operational environment, leading to improved patient outcomes and enhanced organizational efficiency. Highlighting the Qatar campus’s strategic location and capacity to support this program, Andrew Henley, Chief Operating Officer of GU-Q, remarked, “As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary in Qatar, we are proud to support Georgetown’s School of Continuing Studies and leverage Georgetown’s global network of faculty expertise through GU-Q’s Office of Executive and Professional Education to help build Qatar’s knowledge economy and contribute to positive health, social, and economic outcomes for the region.”
Visit Qatar’s CEO Attends E1 Jeddah GP Ahead of the Doha GP in February
Ahead of Qatar’s hosting of the next E1 Series event this February, Visit Qatar’s Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, attended the E1 Jeddah GP held in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. During his visit, Al-Mawlawi met with prominent industry leaders, including HRH Prince Sultan bin Fahd bin Salman Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation, Alejandro Agag, E1 Co-Founder and Chairman, and Rodi Basso, CEO and Co-Founder of the E1 Series. The E1 Series, the world’s first electric powerboat championship, combines thrilling speed with cutting-edge innovation and brings together racers from across the globe. By hosting the E1 Doha GP from 21–22 February 2025, Qatar continues to cement itself as a premier destination for world-class sporting events, offering unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors. For more information and latest updates related to Visit Qatar, please visit: www.visitqatar.qa
Visit Qatar announces five-year partnership with Professional Triathletes Organisation
From 2025 to 2029 the T100 Triathlon World Championship Final to be held in Doha Visit Qatar, the Professional Triathletes Organisation, World Triathlon, and the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation have announced the hosting of the Triathlon World Championship Finals Qatar T100 from 2025 to 2029. This comes as part of a five-year partnership agreement between Visit Qatar and the Professional Triathletes Organisation. The inaugural Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final will be held from December 11th – 13th, 2025. The swim leg will take place in the Arabian Gulf, while the bike and run legs will navigate through Doha and Lusail, passing several iconic landmarks such as the Lusail Stadium. The multisport festival weekend will also offer a series of swim, bike, and run events for amateurs, including the chance for amateur athletes to participate in the new 100km triathlon distance (2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run) alongside the best professional triathletes in the world. Commenting on the partnership, Eng. Abdulaziz Al–Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Professional Triathletes Organisation to host the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final in our vibrant cities for the next five years. This event underscores Qatar’s growing reputation as a premier sports destination, showcasing our commitment to hosting world-class international sporting events. Qatar’s infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and rich sports culture offers the perfect environment to host this event. This collaboration further strengthens Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports tourism, inspiring both professional athletes and enthusiasts alike.” Antonio F. Arimany, President of World Triathlon, who have designated the series as the ‘Official World Championship Tour of long-distance triathlon’, added: “The T100 Triathlon World Championship Final represents a new chapter for our sport, combining elite competition with global accessibility and participation. As we continue to grow triathlon around the world, confirming the presence of the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final on the calendar for the next five years is another major milestone for our great sport in this dynamic region. Partnering with Visit Qatar and the Qatari Triathlon Federation to host this prestigious event in Doha ensures not only a world-class experience for professional athletes but also an incredible opportunity for the broader triathlon community to connect with our sport. Qatar’s dedication to innovation and excellence aligns seamlessly with our vision for the T100 series, and we’re excited to see triathlon thrive in this dynamic and inspiring destination. Mass participation events are once more thriving alongside the elite racing around the world and really building into a major movement in the Middle East.” Sam Renouf, CEO of the PTO, said at a press conference held in Doha: “We have always been clear about our strategy for the T100 Triathlon World Tour – to feature iconic locations and create a world-class destination for our series. This five-year partnership with Visit Qatar allows us to achieve that vision in one of the fastest-growing, family-friendly tourist destinations in the world, which welcomed more than five million visitors last year. Qatar’s residents and visitors are showing increasing demand not only to attend world-class sporting events but also to participate in them. The legacy of major events like the FIFA World Cup and Formula 1 has encouraged such demand. The season-long series will be known as the T100 Race to Qatar and will not only be a spectacular finale for our new professional series, but also provide opportunities for amateur swimmers, cyclists, and runners – from first timers to the inaugural T100 Age Group World Championships.” He added: “Qatar is a nation with a deep respect for its heritage, yet one that is firmly focused on the future. In addition to its role as a hub for global universities and cutting-edge health and research centres, the country has a rapidly growing sports ecosystem, including training, sports medicine, and wellness facilities. This aligns perfectly with the goals we have for the T100 series.” Abdulaziz Al Tamimi, Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation President said, “As President of the Qatar Triathlon Federation, I am thrilled to announce that hosting the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final over the next five years marks a significant milestone in strengthening Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports. This prestigious event aligns with our vision to elevate triathlon in Qatar and support our athletes in achieving international excellence.” “As a passionate triathlete, it has always been a dream to witness a world-class event like this in our homeland. Hosting this championship simplifies logistical challenges for athletes and reflects Qatar’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture. Developing our national team is a key priority, as we prepare our athletes to compete globally and proudly represent Qatar. The presence of elite triathletes offers opportunities for inspiration and growth, encouraging the community to embrace the sport.” he added. He concluded by saying, “This championship will inspire younger generations to adopt active lifestyles, aligning with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. By hosting this event, we reinforce Qatar’s legacy of organizing world-class sporting events that promote health, wellness, and resilience. We look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators from around the globe to share in this incredible experience and celebrate the sport of triathlon together.” The list of athletes for the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Tour was announced earlier this month, with a remarkable group of Olympic champions and World Championship winners from 13 countries participating. The women’s field will be led by American and Belgian Olympians Taylor Knibb and Marten Van Riel, who won the inaugural T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals in Dubai, becoming the first-ever T100 series world champions. Each athlete will have to compete in at least five of the ten T100 races during the season, with their four best scores plus their result in the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final, where points will count double, contributing to their final T100 standing. Qatar’s global positioning as a hub for international sporting excellence continues to grow, and events such as the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Championship contribute to its
Sidra Medicine Establishes Gene Therapy Center for Pediatric Rare Diseases
Bringing Life-changing Treatments for SMA and DMD Closer to Home 28 January 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has established a Gene Therapy Center to treat rare genetic diseases such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The announcement was made at Arab Health 2025 where Sidra Medicine will highlight its international patient service programs including flagship services such as gene therapy, reproductive medicine, the Heart Center and more. The Gene Therapy Center solidifies Sidra Medicine’s position as a regional leader in advanced care, attracting families from across the GCC and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Prof. Tawfeg Ben-Omran, Division Chief of Genetic and Genomic Medicine at Sidra Medicine, said: “In response to the overwhelming demand from neighbouring countries, the establishment of the Gene Therapy Center is a crucial step in meeting the needs of families seeking cutting-edge treatments for SMA and DMD. As a Qatari institution, our goal is to create a regional center of excellence, where children from across the Arab world can access advanced therapies without the need to travel long distances, bringing world-class care closer to home.” The Gene Therapy Center is designed to address the growing demand for innovative treatments for SMA and DMD. It plans to expand the service in the future for other rare and complex genetic diseases. Since the launch of its gene therapy program in 2022, Sidra Medicine has already provided groundbreaking therapies to 30 children with SMA and 15 children with DMD, attracting patients from 11 countries. Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Acting Chief Medical Officer, Chair of Medical Education, and the Division Chief of Pulmonology said: “The availability of gene therapies for both SMA and DMD at Sidra Medicine represents a significant leap forward in the care of these rare genetic disorders. By offering these life-changing treatments, we are not only providing advanced medical solutions but also reducing the emotional and logistical challenges families face. Our International Patient Services team is dedicated to guiding families through every step of their journey, ensuring a smooth, and efficient experience throughout their time with us.” Leading the Way in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) Care DMD is the most common inherited muscle disorder, primarily affecting males, with symptoms typically appearing between the ages of two and three. As the disease progresses, it leads to severe muscle weakness, affecting mobility and, ultimately, respiratory and cardiac function. Globally, approximately 1 in 3,500 to 5,000 live male births are affected by the disorder. In the GCC region, specifically Saudi Arabia, studies have indicated a higher average age at diagnosis (7-8 years) compared to countries such as the United Kingdom – where the mean age is slightly above four years. This delay is attributed to factors such as limited awareness and lack of standardized diagnostic pathways. Recent advancements in gene therapy have provided new hope for DMD patients. Elevidys, developed by Roche Pharmaceuticals, is the first and only approved gene therapy for DMD. The treatment introduces a functional dystrophin gene to muscle and heart cells, slowing disease progression and improving muscle function. Sidra Medicine has become a key player in DMD care in the region. In June 2024, it made history by becoming the first hospital in Qatar and the fifth hospital worldwide to administer Elevidys to a DMD patient, Chris El Kik. This milestone marked the beginning of Sidra Medicine’s rapidly expanding DMD program. Building on this success, Sidra Medicine achieved another groundbreaking milestone in October 2024, becoming the first hospital outside the United States to administer Elevidys to children over the age of six. This highlights Sidra Medicine’s growing expertise and leadership in the care and treatment of DMD. Advancing Treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) SMA is a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness and can be life-threatening, often resulting in the loss of vital motor functions such as sitting, crawling, or swallowing. In Saudi Arabia, the SMA carrier frequency is reported at 2.6%, which is slightly higher than the global average of 1.25% to 2%. The estimated birth incidence of SMA in Saudi Arabia is 32 per 100,000 live births, with approximately 2,265 individuals currently living with the condition. However, with advances in gene therapy, SMA is now treatable with Zolgensma, a cutting-edge treatment developed by Novartis that halts disease progression and improves outcomes. SMA is a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness and can be life-threatening, often resulting in the loss of vital motor functions such as sitting, crawling, or swallowing. In Saudi Arabia, the SMA carrier frequency is reported at 2.6%, which is slightly higher than the global average of 1.25% to 2%. The estimated birth incidence of SMA in Saudi Arabia is 32 per 100,000 live births, with approximately 2,265 individuals currently living with the condition. However, with advances in gene therapy, SMA is now treatable with Zolgensma, a cutting-edge treatment developed by Novartis that halts disease progression and improves outcomes. Sidra Medicine was selected as the lead treatment center for the MENA region by Novartis and has successfully administered Zolgensma to several children, including Malkha Rouhi, a young girl who received the therapy at the hospital. International Patient Services Each year, Sidra Medicine’s International Patient Services team works with families from outside Qatar who travel to receive specialized care at the hospital. Prof. Ziyad Hijazi, Medical Director of International Patient Services and Senior Attending Cardiologist said: “The diversity of our international patients at Sidra Medicine is a testament to our expertise. To date, the hospital has cared for over 1000 international patients from around the world, including Kuwait, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Oman, Egypt, Turkey, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, South America, United Kingdom and more. We continue to be a trusted destination for those seeking the latest in pediatric cardiovascular care, neurosurgery, neurology, urology and gene therapy treatments including SMA and DMD.” If you are based overseas and want to inquire about our services including the Gene Therapy Center, please contact International.services@sidra.org. If you are based in Qatar, please
Ministry of Communications and Information Technology Launches the Digital Inclusion Index Report 2024
As part of its commitment to ensuring that all members of society can access digital services with ease and at affordable costs while fostering their effective and sustainable use, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) launched today the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index for the State of Qatar. This report represents a significant step toward building an inclusive digital society that guarantees equal access to digital services for all. It highlights the evolution of digital inclusion as a cornerstone of the Digital Agenda 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030. The launch event was attended by H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, along with their excellencies the other ministers and representatives from various government and private entities. The Digital Inclusion Index aims to enhance international collaboration in digital transformation by facilitating the exchange of expertise and knowledge and fostering strategic partnerships. It will be continuously updated to align with ongoing digital advancements. The report serves as a roadmap to promote digital inclusion in Qatar, focusing on ensuring that all members of society can benefit from the opportunities offered by digital technology regardless of their social or economic background. It provides comprehensive insights through seven key pillars, including digital access, ability, affordability of digital services, policies and regulations, attitudes toward digital technology, adoption and impact, and the importance of digital content. These pillars help shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by different societal segments in achieving digital inclusion. Commenting on the launch, H.E. Reem Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Development at MCIT, stated: “Digital inclusion is a cornerstone of Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, ensuring that every member of society is empowered to thrive amid the rapid pace of technological advancement, including AI. The Digital Inclusion Index, is both a benchmark and a roadmap, aligned with our vision to build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. As emerging technologies reshape industries and societies, inclusion becomes critical—not just to unlock innovation, but to ensure no one is left behind. By expanding access and enhancing digital literacy, we are strengthening Qatar’s global leadership in technology and laying the foundation for a future-ready society equipped to navigate and harness the opportunities of the digital age.” Adding to this, Mrs. Duha Al Buhendi, Director of the Digital Society and Digital Competencies Department at MCIT, said: “The Digital Inclusion Index is part of our ongoing efforts to achieve the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030. This report lays the foundation for designing innovative policies and programs that enhance digital equity and expand access to digital technology. We will continue to work toward ensuring that digital services reach every individual in the community while enhancing their digital skills in alignment with the aspirations of the Digital Agenda 2030.” The report highlights the notable achievements that have positioned Qatar as second regionally and 16th globally in digital inclusion. Comprehensive 5G and 4G network coverage played a significant role in attaining these rankings, reflecting substantial investments in digital infrastructure. Additionally, digital capacity-building programs, such as the “Better Connections” program and the “SafeSpace” platform, have enhanced the skills of more than 1.5 million migrant workers and raised awareness of digital safety and security. These initiatives align with the sixth pillar of the Digital Agenda 2030, which envisions building an advanced digital society that leads the future. The report further notes that 77% of Qatar’s population aged 15 years and older have completed secondary education, directly contributing to their digital skills and ability to interact with modern technologies. This progress is attributed to the country’s investments in the education and ICT sectors, paving the way for building a digitally empowered society. Moreover, affordable digital services, enabled by public-private partnerships, have increased the adoption of these services, further supporting digital equity. The report also emphasizes that advanced regulatory frameworks focusing on technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are essential in fostering digital trust. It revealed that 83% of Qatar’s population rely on basic digital activities, reflecting the nation’s success in creating a trusted and attractive digital environment. However, the report outlines existing challenges in integrating advanced technologies, particularly for groups with lower digital proficiency. It underscores the importance of targeted programs tailored to the needs of these groups to bridge the digital gap. The Digital Inclusion Index serves as a strategic compass guiding Qatar’s effort to advance the digital economy. The report stresses the importance of collaboration among government entities, private sector organizations, and academic institutions to achieve the goals of digital inclusion. According to the report, Qatar aims to enhance its leading position in digital inclusion regionally and globally by continuously investing in digital infrastructure and education. Future goals include a 10% increase in digital access, a 30% improvement in digital competencies for citizens and residents, and a 20% boost in digital trust. These objectives are supported by planned initiatives, including tailored training programs to empower senior citizens in digital transformation and enhance inclusion for those with limited digital skills. The launch of the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index represents a milestone in Qatar’s digital transformation journey, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable digital society that ensures equal opportunities for all. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology remains dedicated to fostering collaboration across sectors to enhance digital inclusion, leveraging technology to improve quality of life and achieve sustainable development.
