Ooredoo Qatar and QTSPBF Extend Winning Partnership
Setting the stage for yet another exciting edition of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel in April 2025 24 March 2025Doha, Qatar Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading telecommunications provider, has renewed its successful partnership with the Qatar Tennis, Squash, Padel, and Badminton Federation (QTSPBF), reinforcing its dedication to developing padel in Qatar and across the region. The agreement was signed by Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer of Ooredoo Qatar, and Tariq Zainal, Secretary-General of QTSPBF. This renewed collaboration comes ahead of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel 2025, scheduled from 14 to 19 April at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. Recognised as a Major tournament within the Qatar Airways Premier Padel Tour, the event represents the highest level of professional padel, attracting the world’s best players and top teams to Doha. With each edition, the tournament has grown in both scale and prestige, further reiterating Qatar’s reputation as a hub for world-class sporting events. Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al-Thani, CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, said: “We are pleased to extend our partnership with QTSPBF, reaffirming our commitment to developing this rapidly growing sport in Qatar and across the region. At Ooredoo, we are committed to empowering the communities we serve through sports, and this renewed partnership will allow us to continue supporting the great game of padel in Qatar and beyond. We look forward to another exciting tournament and an even brighter future for the sport.” Tariq Zainal, Secretary-General of QTSPBF, said: “We are thrilled to extend our collaboration with Ooredoo as the title sponsor of the prestigious Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel 2025. This partnership reflects Ooredoo’s strong commitment to advancing sports in Qatar and supporting major events, further strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global sporting hub.” He added, “Our ongoing collaboration with Ooredoo is a key step towards elevating this tournament to even greater heights,” highlighting that this partnership will contribute to delivering an exceptional sporting experience for padel enthusiasts in Qatar and worldwide. Ooredoo has been a longstanding supporter of sports in Qatar, championing initiatives that bring communities together and inspire a new generation of athletes. This renewed commitment ensures that Qatar remains at the forefront of world padel, welcoming top-ranked players, elite teams, and passionate fans to yet another thrilling edition of the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel.
Sidra Medicine and İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG) Sign MoU to Advance Pediatric Biomedical Research
Strengthening Collaboration in Genomics, Precision Medicine, and Translational Research 18 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the İzmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG) to enhance collaboration in pediatric biomedical research. The agreement marks a significant milestone in fostering scientific research, innovation, and knowledge exchange between the two institutions. Dr. Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, Chief Executive Officer at Sidra Medicine, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating: “The MoU with IBG is a major step in accelerating genomic discoveries for rare diseases. Our collaboration will focus on key areas including biobanking, genomics and multi-omics, bioinformatics, animal models of disease, and stem cell research. By working together, we aim to advance precision medicine and develop groundbreaking solutions for children with complex medical conditions.” Prof. Yılmaz, Director of IBG, said: “Partnering with Sidra Medicine, a globally recognized leader in pediatric healthcare and research, reinforces our commitment to advancing biomedical research. This collaboration will enable us to make meaningful strides in genomic and translational medicine, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for children globally.” The partnership with IBG will also establish a framework for collaborative research projects, academic exchanges, and the sharing of expertise in key areas such as genomics, precision medicine, and translational research. By combining resources and knowledge, Sidra Medicine and IBG aim to address critical health challenges affecting children worldwide. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine said: “Our agreement with IBG will also enable student exchanges and visiting scientist programs in both directions between Qatar and Turkey, as well as joint grant applications. Additionally, we will establish research cohorts with similar disorders across the MENAT region, helping us gain deeper insights into disease patterns and therapeutic interventions.” The agreement paves the way for future joint initiatives, including research collaborations, training programs, and knowledge-sharing efforts that will benefit both institutions and the broader scientific community.
WCM-Q students gain real-world exposure to Qatar’s healthcare system
Doha – March 18, 2025: Seventeen students from Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s (WCM-Q) foundation and pre-medical programs participated in the 2024-2025 Pre-Medical Observership Program. The program provides students with valuable exposure to the healthcare system in Qatar and the daily practices of medical professionals. It allows them to explore the different medical specialties and career options available. The students spent two weeks of their winter break at affiliate hospitals Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Sidra Medicine, where they shadowed physicians during their daily rounds in various clinics, including obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, internal medicine, emergency, and trauma. They also observed doctor-patient interactions and listened to doctors’ discussions of cases, diagnoses, and potential treatment plans. An additional observation opportunity was exclusively offered to foundation students, who spent a week at Sidra Medicine as part of their English language course. The 19 participating students combined classroom knowledge with observations of hands-on clinical experiences. Their observations focused on themes such as professionalism, teamwork, and professional identity, with each hospital visit centered around a specific theme. Commenting on his experience, pre-medical student Abdulaziz Al-Hardan said: “I gained valuable insights into patient care, clinical decision-making, and the realities of working in a fast-paced medical environment. Witnessing a variety of intricate medical situations helped me appreciate the value of teamwork, empathy, and communication in the medical field.” This passion for medicine was echoed by fellow students Noof Al-Malik and Jassim Al-Hail from the foundation program. Al-Malik said: “As a foundation student, it’s easy to lose sight of the end goal while being preoccupied with studying. This program reminded me of my love for the profession and reignited my determination to work hard to achieve my goals.” Al-Hail added: “The days that had the most significant impact on me were spent in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit (TICU). We not only observed the meticulous work of the doctors and their team of residents while treating patients suffering from brain trauma, but we also learned invaluable lessons about life, religion, and the art of medicine.” Upon completing the observership, the students submitted reflective essays and received certificates of participation. Dr. Rachid Bendriss, associate dean for foundation, student outreach and educational development programs, said: “We are committed to providing our foundation and pre-medical students with the opportunity to gain firsthand experience of what practicing physicians face during their daily rotations. We are extremely grateful to our affiliates for hosting these enriching experiences. Offering such opportunities early in a student’s academic journey helps set realistic expectations about the challenges and rewards of a medical career.”
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Honors Winners of the 2025 Ramadan Esports Tournament
Doha, Qatar, March 16, 2025: H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, honored the winners of the 2025 Ramadan Esports Tournament during a special closing ceremony held at Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha. The tournament aimed to enhance the engagement of industry stakeholders and provide employees of the ICT sector and their families with the opportunity to compete in a professional and competitive gaming environment. Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in collaboration with the Qatar Esports Federation and Project Infinite, a startup supported by the Digital Incubation Center, the tournament saw broad participation from esports enthusiasts across Qatar. Players competed in various electronic games, fostering a spirit of challenge and innovation. The tournament followed an individual competition format and featured two categories: the Majors Category, which included ICT sector employees, and the Juniors Category, comprising employees’ children under the age of 18. The event showcased high levels of competitive performance, with top winners receiving valuable prizes and gifts sponsored by tournament partners in recognition of their exceptional achievements. The tournament received strong support from leading companies and organizations. QNBN served as the Platinum Sponsor, while Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha was the Hospitality Sponsor. Microsoft and Promo Vision also contributed as Supporting Sponsors, playing a key role in the tournament’s success and enriching participants’ experiences. The Ramadan Esports Tournament stands as a prominent platform for fostering and developing the digital gaming sector in Qatar. It aims to encourage youth participation in this rapidly growing industry while providing local talent with opportunities to compete at both regional and global levels.
High school students glimpse potential of a career in medicine at WCM-Q
Doha – March 16, 2025: Thirty-three high school students spent a week at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) discovering careers in medicine during the winter session of the Qatar Medical Explorer Program (QMEP). QMEP, an immersive enrichment program offered by WCM-Q’s Office of Student Outreach & Educational Development, provides a snapshot of life as a student at WCM-Q and detailed information about careers in medicine. The program is open to grade 10 and 11 students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a particular aptitude for the sciences and mathematics. During the weeklong program, the high school students took part in a carefully designed series of sessions designed to accurately reproduce the experiences of current WCM-Q students, with classes in biology, chemistry, anatomy, surgery, and research. There was also a presentation on the life of a practicing physician by a member of the WCM-Q faculty, plus opportunities to meet admissions officers, icebreaker sessions, and a mock admissions interview to help the students prepare for applying to college. The students also experienced practical classes in WCM-Q’s state-of-the-art Clinical Skills and Simulation Lab, before giving an oral presentation of a research project to their peers and WCM-Q faculty on the penultimate day of the program. On the evening of final day, the high school students were invited to join current WCM-Q students, faculty and staff for International Night, which celebrates the cultural diversity of the college community. Noha Saleh, director of premedical administration, student outreach and educational development, said: “QMEP is designed to give a very accurate impression to high school students of what life as a WCM-Q student is like and a clear understanding of what a career in science will entail. We are very happy to provide this chance for students to explore WCM-Q and we are certain that a great many of this year’s cohort left feeling very inspired about pursuing a career in medicine.” WCM-Q also runs QMEP sessions in the summer to provide more opportunities for students to explore careers in medicine. Entry to the program is based upon academic performance and nominations from high school counselors and teachers. Dr. Rachid Bendriss, professor of English as a second language, assistant professor of education in medicine, and associate dean for foundation, student outreach and educational development programs, said: “QMEP allows high school students with an interest in the sciences and good academic performance the chance to glimpse all that a career in medicine has to offer, as well as allowing them to explore WCM-Q’s state-of-the-art facilities and world-class levels of teaching. We hope that many of the inquisitive, intelligent and hardworking students who visited us during this session of QMEP will choose to join WCM-Q and go on to serve their communities as physicians, researchers, and educators.”
Mowasalat (Karwa) Spreads Joy on Garangao Night with a Special Community Initiative
Doha, Qatar – 14 March 2025: Mowasalat (Karwa) brought joy to children and families across Qatar by celebrating the tradition of Garangao at its booths in Doha Festival City, City Center and Villagio Mall. As part of this initiative, children visiting the booths were welcomed with festive treats, reinforcing the company’s commitment to preserving Qatari heritage and engaging with the community. Garangao, celebrated on the 14th night of Ramadan, is a beloved cultural tradition that strengthens community bonds and fills the night with joy and laughter. This gesture reflected Mowasalat’s dedication to social responsibility and its ongoing efforts to uphold Qatari traditions. Mohammed Abukhadija, Executive Director of Commercial Affairs in Mowasalat (Karwa) commented on the initiative, saying: “This initiative embodied our dedication to social responsibility and our pride in preserving our rich traditions. At Mowasalat, our role goes beyond transportation we are committed to strengthening our connection with the community and ensuring that our cultural heritage is passed on to future generations. The event saw a large turnout, with children eagerly gathering their treats and experiencing the festive spirit of the Garangao, bringing families together to celebrate in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Qatar’s Growing Influence in Media and Communications Takes Center Stage at MEPRA Leadership Majlis
Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse partner to establish Doha as a key hub for strategic communications in the region. 13 March 2025, Doha – Qatar: As the communications industry in the Middle East continues to evolve, Qatar is stepping up as a key player in the sector with the launch of the inaugural MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis. Taking place on Thursday, 1 May 2025, at W Doha, this crucial event will bring together industry leaders to discuss the future of PR, and explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities that are shaping the sector. As the region’s leading industry body, MEPRA plays a pivotal role in expanding and advancing the standards of public relations and communications across the Middle East, fostering knowledge exchange, and empowering professionals through thought leadership initiatives, research, and training. Under the theme “Outlook for PR in the Middle East”, Qatar’s first MEPRA Leadership Majlis was realized through the steadfast support of Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse—three leading agencies committed to advancing the nation’s position as a regional hub for strategic communications. Bringing together some of the brightest minds in communications, the insightful gathering will feature H.E. Gautam Bhattacharyya, Ambassador of Sweden to the State of Qatar; Dr. Marc Owen Jones, Associate Professor of Media Analytics at Northwestern University, Qatar; Dan Morland, Director of Communications and Public Policy at the Centre for Information Resilience; and Justin Kerr-Stevens, MEPRA Executive Board Member, Head of the MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis Committee, and CEO of BLJ Worldwide. Together, these experts will explore how AI is reshaping PR strategies, the growing challenges of misinformation and public trust, and how to balance digital transformation with cultural authenticity. Their discussions will offer real-world insights into leveraging technology while ensuring brands stay credible, relevant, and adaptable in an increasingly complex media environment. Commenting on the event, Kate Midttun, MEPRA Chairperson; Founder & CEO, Acorn Strategy, said: “This Majlis is an important moment for Qatar’s public relations industry. As media and communications strategies continue to transform, it is essential to create platforms like this for industry leaders to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and collaborate on solutions to ensure our shared growth. We extend our sincere gratitude to Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse for their dedication in organizing this inaugural edition and we look forward to a thought-provoking and inspiring event in Doha.” The MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis is set to be a vital driver of innovation, thought leadership, and cross-border collaboration in PR and communications, reinforcing Qatar’s growing influence as a regional business and media hub. The event will conclude with the MEPRA Fellowship Presentation, honoring outstanding contributions to the industry, followed by a networking session where PR professionals, media experts, and business leaders can connect and explore potential partnerships and collaboration opportunities. To learn more or register for the event, visit mepra.org/events/2024mepramajlisqatar.
Sidra Medicine Study Identifies New Non-Invasive Method for Detecting Heart Disease Risk
Breakthrough Study Identifies Early Heart Disease Markers in Blood and Saliva 11 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has published a study in Scientific Reports, a journal from Nature Portfolio titled “Distinctive Blood and Salivary Proteomics Signatures in Qatari Individuals at High Risk for Cardiovascular Disease“. The study identifies protein markers that can help detect individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease. These non-invasive methods contribute to advancing personalized healthcare and facilitating early diagnosis. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, accounting for 29 percent1 of all deaths in Qatar, with risk factors like diabetes and hypertension driving the disease burden. In the broader Middle Eastern population, CVD accounts for 34 percent2 of deaths. The Sidra Medicine study offers promising insights into precision medicine, with the potential to transform strategies for managing and preventing CVD. Dr. Souhaila Al Khodor, Director of the Perinatal and Reproductive Health Division and Principal Investigator at the Laboratory of Microbiome and Biomarkers Discovery, said: “Our study is a step forward in advancing precision medicine for cardiovascular disease. We identified eight biomarkers for CVD-risk that appear in both blood and saliva, demonstrating that non-invasive saliva-based testing could serve as an alternative to traditional blood tests. This approach could significantly improve screening efforts, allowing for timely interventions and better management of modifiable risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.” The research, conducted as part of the Microbiome and Biomarkers Discovery lab at Sidra Medicine, was led by Dr. Souhaila Al Khodor and Principal Investigators, Dr. Annalisa Terranegra and Dr. Jean Charles Grivel. The multidisciplinary team also included Dr. Ghada Yousif, Research Specialist and Staff Scientists – Dr. Selvasankar Murugesan, Dr. Mohamed Nadhir Djekidel and Dr. Giusy Gentilcore. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine, said: “Qatar has built a world-class ecosystem for precision medicine, integrating genomic research, national biobanking, and targeted healthcare initiatives. With participants recruited through Qatar Biobank and funding from the Qatar National Research Fund, this study demonstrates how we can translate local genetic insights into innovative healthcare solutions that has global implications. By focusing on cardiovascular disease, which has a significant death rate in the region, we are addressing a critical health challenge and working to reduce its impact on the Qatari population.” Sidra Medicine continues to lead in advancing innovative healthcare solutions tailored to the needs of the Qatari population. Through cutting edge research, Qatar is driving breakthroughs in precision medicine, enhancing early diagnosis and risk management for cardiovascular disease. Click here to read the full study, which was awarded via Qatar National Research Fund’s Path to Precision Medicine 2-PPM2 grant under the Qatar Genome Program.
Web Summit Qatar 2025: Hub of Artificial Intelligence
This year’s expanded edition welcomed over 25,000 attendees from over 124 countries, more than 1,520 startups, over 600 investors, and more than 380 speakers alongside 180 industry partners. The event has also drawn unprecedented media interest, with representatives from over 600 media outlets. The second annual Web Summit held in Doha at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) between February 23 and 26 had a bevy of tech entrepreneurs and financial backers who got together to assess and understand the future of artificial intelligence (AI). His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, the largest technology event in the Middle East and North Africa. In his opening speech, HE the Prime Minister emphasised Qatar’s continued efforts to cement its position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the nation’s commitment to improving regulatory frameworks and creating new economic opportunities for the private sector. He stated: “Built on the back of our thriving energy sector, we are positioned for a private sector take-off. This launch will include even more transformative partnerships across key sectors, from pioneering fintech solutions to groundbreaking climate technologies.” HE the Prime Minister emphasised that Qatar will continue to reinforce its commitment to supporting startups, stating: “We plan to renovate our entire economy to make Qatar the top regional destination for startups and create an ecosystem for startups to innovate and thrive.” Qatar is seeking to use its gas wealth to help it become a regional AI leader amid rising competition from neighbouring Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Qatar had signed a five-year deal with Scale AI to deploy AI-powered tools and training in a push to improve government services in the country. 2025 Web Summit The summit kicked off with a series of panel discussions featuring prominent entrepreneurs from around the world, including Alexandr Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI, and Alexis Ohanian, Co-Founder of Reddit and General Partner at Seven Seven Six. Leading entrepreneurs from around the world, including Alexander Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI, and Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and general partner at Seven Seven Six, took centre stage at the event on the opening day. Key questions discussed at the summit were over the future of AI amid companies and investors that are changing that landscape more rapidly than what the players themselves expected. The United States and China are leading in preparedness for AI, said Wang of US company Scale AI. DeepSeek, the Chinese AI company that develops large language models that are competitive with OpenAI’s, but cost less to create. demonstrated that it is a relatively close race between the two countries and that others will have to follow suit soon.
Snap Inc. and Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar empower the next generation of AR talent at Web Summit Qatar 2025
Hosting a workshop exclusively for the university’s Foundation year and Bachelor of Fine Arts students, Snap’s Global head of AR Developer Relations showcased the future of Augmented Reality and career pathways at Snap Middle East, 5 March 2025 — Dedicated to empowering the next generation of Augmented Reality (AR) innovators, Snap Inc. teamed up with Virginia Commonwealth University School of Arts Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) to host an exclusive AR workshop for 50 Foundation year and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) students at Web Summit Qatar. The workshop, titled “Building a Snapchat Lens, Building Your Career,” provided students with a unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from industry leaders, equipping them with the tools needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving AR landscape. The session, led by Joseph Darko, Snap Inc.’s Global Head of AR Developer Relations, was designed to showcase both the creative and technical potential of AR technology. Augmented Reality is digitally overlaid onto the real world, which Snap believes is the healthiest, most compelling way to communicate. Over the years, Snap’s AR technology has evolved significantly, transitioning from fun, playful lenses to a powerful tool for both personal expression and business innovation. Globally, Snapchat sees over 6 billion AR Lens plays every day on average, and in the MENA region, more than 85% of daily users interact with Lenses each day. Committed to empowering the next generation, Snap taught students how to build their own Snapchat Lens, while also introducing them to practical strategies for succeeding in the AR developer community. Through its longstanding investments in AR, Snap is not only shaping the future of communication but empowering the next generation of developers in the region, aligning with the digital transformation agendas of the Middle East. “Augmented Reality is the next frontier in human connection, and it was incredible to share the secrets to AR success with the talented students at VCUarts Qatar,” said Joseph Darko, Global Head of AR Developer Relations at Snap Inc. “This workshop showcased how AR can amplify creativity, drive innovation across industries, and create tangible career opportunities for aspiring developers. At Snap, we’re committed to building experiences that connect people and brands in authentic, meaningful ways, and we’re proud to support talent in MENA – a region where we see enormous potential for AR to transform all sectors.” The partnership between Snap and VCUarts Qatar underscores the importance of experiential learning and industry collaboration in preparing students for the future of work. Students who attended the workshop left with a deeper understanding of how AR is already reshaping industries like fashion, sports, tourism, culture and AI—sectors in which Snap is leading the charge in leveraging AR for branding and consumer engagement. Lejla Niksic, Director of Strategic Engagement at VCUarts Qatar, said, “This collaboration with Snap empowers our students to explore innovative technologies like AR, allowing them to bridge the gap between creativity and the rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring they are equipped to lead in a future driven by innovation.” Niksic further emphasized, “For VCUarts Qatar, collaborating with Snap enhances our positioning as a key player in fostering cutting-edge creative practices that align with industry needs and technological advancements, ultimately preparing our students to thrive in a world where digital engagement is central to various design fields. The alignment of our shared commitment to creativity and innovation makes this partnership a natural fit, ensuring that our students not only gain valuable skills but also embody the forward-thinking and entrepreneurial spirit that both VCUarts Qatar and Snap strive to cultivate.” Varvera Guljajeva, VCUarts Qatar Associate Professor of Kinetic Imaging, brought her entire class to the Snap workshop at Web Summit Qatar and expressed how meaningful it was for students to hear directly about new developments that they can explore and learn. According to Guljajeva, one of her students already has plans to incorporate Lenses into their current class project to make it more interactive. As AR continues to redefine consumer experiences across industries, the MENA region is poised for an accelerated demand for skilled AR developers. By supporting initiatives like the VCU workshop, Snap is not only cultivating the next generation of AR creators, but empowering students to explore new, exciting career possibilities within the immersive world of Augmented Reality.
