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.
The State of Qatar and the GSMA to Host First Edition of MWC Doha in the MENA
Doha, Qatar, March 4, 2025: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), announced that it will host MWC Doha for five consecutive years, marking a historic first for the Middle East and North Africa region. The announcement was made during an official signing ceremony attended by H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Mr. John Hoffman, CEO GSMA Ltd., along with senior officials from the GSMA. This landmark event highlights global confidence in Qatar’s capability to organize and host world-class technological events. MWC Barcelona is held annually by the GSMA. It is the world’s largest and most influential connectivity event and this year’s edition will feature a broad range of topics reflecting the latest trends and technologies in the mobile industry. Key themes for this year’s edition include 5G Inside, Connect X, AI+, Enterprise Re-invented, Game Changers, and Our Digital DNA. H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasized that the event serves as a global platform to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among companies and experts. He noted that this initiative will accelerate digital transformation and solidify Qatar’s position as a global hub for digital innovation, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030. H.E stated: “Qatar is preparing to host MWC Doha for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa region. This milestone reflects our commitment to accelerating the adoption of digital solutions and enhancing our leadership in the ICT sector. Hosting this event represents a strategic opportunity to attract investments and support the implementation of the Digital Agenda 2030. This event will enhance collaboration among leading sector companies, opening new horizons for growth and innovation in the region.” The inaugural edition of MWC Doha, set for 25-26 November 2025, will spotlight the latest breakthroughs in mobile technology, artificial intelligence, financial technology, and smart connectivity. The event will also explore crucial topics such as digital inclusion, sustainability, and future technologies, providing a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange. Mr. John Hoffman, CEO GSMA Ltd., highlighted the significance of the event by stating: “The world’s largest and most influential connectivity event is coming to Doha! We are delighted to welcome MWC25 Doha to our world-renowned MWC Series. Our vision is for MWC Doha to become integral to Qatar’s emerging role as a global hub for digital innovation, showcasing the Middle East’s digital transformation across AI, advanced 5G and smart mobility. We cannot wait to open the doors for MWC25 Doha – see you there!” Qatar’s hosting of MWC Doha is expected to significantly boost the country’s economy by attracting thousands of visitors and participants from around the world, including top executives, experts, and investors in the telecommunications and information technology sector. This global influx will serve as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, a bridge for international cooperation, and a platform to showcase the technological capabilities of Qatari and regional companies. It will further solidify Qatar’s position as a leading hub for digital innovation and investment in the region and globally. Additionally, this hosting is set to attract foreign direct investment to Qatar by providing international investors with the opportunity to explore the country’s attractive investment environment, which includes advanced infrastructure and a supportive regulatory framework for entrepreneurship and digital ventures. It is also expected to open new avenues for strategic partnerships between Qatari and global companies, reinforcing Qatar’s standing as a regional and global center for technology and digital innovation. Moreover, MWC Doha will provide government entities and local businesses with a valuable opportunity to engage with leading global experts, exchange knowledge, and stay up to date with the latest technological trends that can be implemented locally to support digital transformation and build a knowledge-based economy. Furthermore, it will serve as a crucial platform for local and regional companies to showcase their solutions and products on the global stage, interact with industry leaders and innovators, and enhance their competitive edge. This engagement will help these companies expand into new markets and strengthen their position in the international arena. The GSMA has regional editions of MWC to promote innovation globally including MWC Shanghai, MWC Las Vegas and MWC Kigali. With Qatar set to host MWC Doha, the country reinforces its position as a regional leader in technology and innovation, driving forward its vision for a connected and AI-powered future. MWC Barcelona 2024 attracted over 101,000 participants from 205 countries and territories, with more than 2,700 exhibiting companies, showcasing the significant economic and technological impact of this event. Choosing Qatar to host MWC Doha over the coming years reflects the international community’s trust in its organizational capabilities and advanced infrastructure.
Sidra Medicine’s ENT Service Delivers Breakthrough in Airway Surgery
Qatar’s Only National Pediatric Tracheostomy Program Provides Expert and Innovative Care for Airway Conditions 4 March 2025, Doha, Qatar – Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, is setting a new benchmark in pediatric healthcare with Qatar’s only national pediatric tracheostomy program. Supporting over 150 patients annually, the program has become a vital resource for families in Qatar, offering cutting-edge care and life-changing outcomes. In a recent success story, the Otolaryngology (ENT) team at Sidra Medicine successfully removed the tracheostomy tube of a 16-year-old patient. The patient experienced airway obstruction just above her vocal cords, which required the placement of a tracheostomy tube below the vocal cords to bypass the obstruction. Living with a breathing tube inserted through her neck was a life-altering condition, significantly limiting her as a high-functioning teenager. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries over the years to address the obstruction, previous attempts to resolve the issue and remove her tracheostomy had been unsuccessful. The team performed a unique combination of an epiglottoplasty and supraglottoplasty tailored specifically to her needs. The individualized approach, a first in Qatar, resolved the obstruction and allowed the patient to breathe normally through her nose for the first time in years. Dr. Taseer Feroze Din, an Attending Pediatric ENT Physician, who led the procedure on the young patient said: “This case highlights the strength of our airway surgical services and innovative approach to complex conditions. Our multidisciplinary team manages multiple new tracheostomies annually, cares for over 50 patients in long-term care, and supports over 100 patients in the community. Our team’s collaborative approach, which is harmonized by our nurse practitioner, Larkin Accinelli, has been pivotal in successes such as this. The aim of our program is to create a system that provides proactive management to prevent complications and optimize safe care for all our tracheostomized patients”. The patient’s mother shared her heartfelt gratitude: “Our daughter was born with a tightening in her throat, unable to breathe normally, and relied on a device to help her for the past 15 years. After five unsuccessful surgeries in the UK, Sidra Medicine here in Qatar, was the only place that could help her. We are deeply grateful to the doctors who provided exceptional care and checked on her tirelessly, even late into the night. It has been a long and painful journey since birth, but now after so many years, she can finally breathe on her own.” Dr. Faisal Abdelkader, Division Chief of Otolaryngology and Audiology at Sidra Medicine said: “Sidra Medicine’s tracheostomy program has doubled the number of successful tracheostomy removals in the past year, enabling children to lead more normal lives. The program has provided comprehensive care to local and international patients, including patients from Kuwait, Jordan, India, and Sri Lanka. We have become a trusted care partner for these families. I am equally proud of our efforts in presenting the development of the national tracheostomy program at international conferences in the USA, UAE and Tanzania, reinforcing our leadership in pediatric airway and tracheostomy care”. In addition to complex airway surgeries, the ENT service at Sidra Medicine provides a wide range of services, including complex sinus surgery, endoscopic ear surgery, pediatric sleep apnea treatment including the latest advances in adenoid and tonsil surgery, anterior skull base leak repair, endoscopic tear duct opening (DCR) and thyroid surgery. Using state-of-the-art equipment and a patient-centered approach, the team ensures exceptional care with optimal outcomes. For international inquiries about Sidra Medicine’s ENT services, please contact International.services@sidra.org. If you are based in Qatar, please call 40033333 for more information.
HEC Paris, Doha Reveals New Insights into Qatar’s Startup Ecosystem at Web Summit 2025
HEC Paris, Doha Partners as Academic Collaborator on Pioneering Report Eight Country-Specific Reports on Qatar Set for Release Later This Year Doha, 2 March 2025 – The Qatar Entrepreneurial Ecosystem 2024: Structural and Configurational Analysis report was officially launched at Web Summit Qatar 2025, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s entrepreneurial development. This new study provides a data-driven roadmap for fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth in the region. A collaboration between HEC Paris, Doha, and the Observatory for Support of Entrepreneurship (OSE) in Africa, the research introduces a proven analytical framework – already implemented in 33 countries – to the GCC region. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has been confirmed as a key partner in this initiative. Mr. Faraj Jassem Abdulla, Director of the Digital Economy Department at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, stated, “We are committed to driving Qatar’s digital transformation and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. This report offers insights that will contribute to our efforts in creating an environment where innovation can flourish. By leveraging cutting-edge research and collaborative partnerships, we aim to empower entrepreneurs, accelerate sustainable economic growth, and ensure alignment with the objectives of Qatar Digital Agenda 2030 and National Vision 2030.” Led by Dr. Allan Villegas-Mateos, Senior Research Fellow and Entrepreneur in Residence at HEC Paris, Doha, the comprehensive 120-page study analyzes Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem from 2018 to 2023. It offers policymakers, investors, and industry leaders actionable insights to accelerate innovation and business growth. The findings highlight underdeveloped sectors such as FinTech, AgriTech, and DeepTech, which present high-growth investment opportunities. Lusail and Al-Khor are identified as emerging hubs requiring targeted support. Strengthening ties between universities and venture capitalists is essential for commercializing research and fostering innovation-driven entrepreneurship. Digital platforms must be leveraged to enhance knowledge exchange, connectivity, and access to funding. “This report represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and nurture entrepreneurship in Qatar,” said Dr. Allan Villegas-Mateos. “Using network analysis, natural language processing, and ecosystem mapping, we have developed a unique methodology that not only diagnoses challenges but also offers concrete pathways for growth. Our collaboration with MCIT and the Observatory enables us to deliver actionable insights that will shape Qatar’s economic future.” Dr. Pablo Martin de Holan, Dean of HEC Paris, Doha emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Qatar has shown exceptional leadership in fostering innovation within the framework of the National Vision 2030, and this report is an essential tool for policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs interested in innovation and change. The report findings highlight the need for close collaboration between academia, entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors, as well as the need for enhanced support structures and a commitment to inclusivity – key elements for ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.” This initiative leverages the work of the Observatory for Support of Entrepreneurship, established in 2023, in Casablanca, Marocco, by a scientific council of leading scholars in the field from Adalia Institute, Utrecht University, IAE Paris Sorbonne Business School, and IAE Lyon School of Management. Furthermore, the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) will play an important role in ensuring global awareness of this report through its extensive network, amplifying its impact and facilitating knowledge exchange among international entrepreneurial ecosystems. “This approach is already attracting interest from regional stakeholders eager to contribute to the GCC’s entrepreneurship narrative,” added Dr. Villegas-Mateos. To sustain this momentum, eight additional reports are scheduled for release throughout 2025, covering investment trends, capital flow analysis, sector-specific innovation strategies, the impact of regulatory reforms on entrepreneurship, talent development and workforce readiness, and global competitiveness benchmarking. The full 2024 report is available for download at https://www.ose.africa/gcc/qatar/, and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the findings to help shape Qatar’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Minister of Public Health Launches “Sehatuha” Campaign Led by Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar
Doha – February 26, 2025: His Excellency Mr Mansoor Bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, Minister of Public Health, inaugurated today the “Sehatuha” campaign, launched by Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q). This initiative marks a significant milestone in efforts to enhance women’s health, emphasizing the crucial role women play in society and the urgent need to prioritize their well-being. Dr Javaid Sheikh, Dean of WCM-Q, attended the launch ceremony alongside over 70 of the college’s alumni. The event featured the unveiling of the campaign’s visual identity, a film narrating the initiative’s journey and intended impact, as well as excerpts from web and podcast episodes presented by alumni. Additionally, Dr Bothina Al-Mulla and Dr Sulaiman Alshakhs, both graduates of WCM-Q and currently Practicing at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), shared their involvement in the campaign and underscored the importance of such initiatives. The Sehatuha campaign represents a dedicated effort to drive tangible change in line with WCM-Q’s mission to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions and foster community well-being. Inspired by the principle that “prevention is better than cure,” the campaign aims to raise awareness about health issues and preventive measures. Commenting on the initiative, His Excellency Mr Mansoor Bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud highlighted the importance of Sehatuha in promoting women’s well-being. He stated, “This campaign supports our collective efforts under the National Health Strategy 2024-2030 to improve the health and well-being of the population, encouraging behavioral shifts towards greater health awareness and empowering individuals to take a proactive role in managing their health.” His Excellency further explained that women’s health had been a priority within the Second National Health Strategy, with intensified efforts to empower women and provide them with the necessary knowledge to lead healthier lives. His Excellency added, “Building on the significant achievements made, our new strategy continues to focus on improving health outcomes, with reproductive health as one of its key initiatives.” The Minister of Public Health also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting innovative health initiatives aimed at enhancing public health, commending the vital role played by WCM-Q in this domain. Additionally, His Excellency praised the support of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), for the healthcare sector, as well as QF’s remarkable contributions to the advancement of Qatar’s healthcare system and the creation of a healthier society. In his welcome speech, Dr Javaid Sheikh praised Qatar’s visionary leadership and the inspiring contributions of female role models. He said, “Inspired by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Sehatuha is more than just a health campaign—it’s a transformative movement that redefines healthcare and paves the way for a healthier, more empowered future for women. Through Sehatuha, we are creating a lifelong platform for women to learn, connect, and grow in their health journey, fostering a culture of self-care, community engagement, and a legacy that will positively impact future generations.” Dr Sheikh concluded by expressing his gratitude to Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), for her continued support of WCM-Q alumni and for empowering future generations of healthcare leaders. Sehatuha draws strength from its profound connection to the community, bridging gaps through WCM-Q’s alumni network. These healthcare leaders, who are rooted in the community and equipped with firsthand knowledge of its challenges, serve as key catalysts for change. The initiative was developed to support and raise awareness of women’s health issues, drawing on the experiences of alumni working across diverse specialties and healthcare institutions. Many WCM-Q alumni, with their deep roots in Qatar, either as nationals or long-term residents, are exceptionally positioned to champion and advance women’s healthcare education. Sehatuha addresses a woman’s entire lifecycle, from childhood and adolescence to motherhood and her golden years, highlighting health concerns specific to each stage. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology and digital platforms, it promotes physical health, mental and emotional well-being, healthy lifestyle habits, and self-care. Additionally, community engagement activities will be centered on these key themes. Beyond web and podcast episodes featuring WCM-Q alumni and experts, the Sehatuha campaign will host a series of workshops and lectures throughout the year. This dedicated approach provides practical knowledge and shared experiences to inspire and empower women in making informed choices about their health and well-being. By fostering a holistic and integrated health culture, Sehatuha aims to enhance women’s well-being, support a healthier society, and promote both physical and emotional health in Qatar and beyond.
Snap Inc. signs landmark MOU with Government Communications Office (GCO) at Web Summit Qatar 2025 to launch first Augmented Reality Academy in the MENA region
MOU unlocks the creative potential of the region’s impressive talent pool and fuels thriving digital ecosystem Doha, Qatar, 26 February 2025: Snap Inc. has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar’s Government Communications Office (GCO) to launch the first Augmented Reality (AR) Academy in the MENA region. Announced at Web Summit Qatar 2025, the agreement marks a significant step in unlocking creative potential across the region and driving digital innovation. The partnership with GCO for the first AR Academy will unlock new opportunities and empower the next generation of AR creators and developers. This move also underscores Snap’s long-term commitment to investing in MENA’s digital ecosystem, by building AR capabilities for partners both old and new, which is critical to digital transformation agendas. Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the GCO and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organising Commitee, said: “Our partnership with Snap to launch the region’s first Augmented Reality Academy marks a strategic milestone in empowering digital talent and driving technological innovation. This initiative aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 in building a knowledge-based economy and nurturing the next generation of creators by equipping them with the essential tools and skills to navigate global digital transformations. Through our investment in such pioneering programs, we continue to strengthen Qatar’s position as a regional centre for digital excellence and technological innovation.” Hussein Freijeh, General Manager of Snap Inc. in the Middle East said: “We continue to bet on AR technology as we believe its potential is limitless. AR brings joy and utility to everyday life, enables brands to drive real business results, and empowers developers to push creative boundaries. The long-term success of the technology requires a vibrant developer and creator ecosystem, which is critical to the digital transformation taking place in the region. Once again we are honored to work hand in hand with GCO to drive the growth and digital upskilling of the thriving talent pool and we cannot wait to see the groundbreaking work they produce”. AR has played a pivotal role in visual communication for more than a decade, pioneered by Snapchat and widely loved by online communities and brands all over the world for its ability to elevate creativity, connection and self-expression. From retail try-ons, and now Gen AI, Snapchat has evolved AR into a tool for human connection and spatial computing. Today, over 300 million people use AR on Snapchat and more than 85% of MENA daily users interact with Lenses every day. In Q4 2024 alone, more than 400 million Snapchatters engaged with Gen AI-powered Lenses over 4 billion times. Developers and creators are central to the potential of this technology and Snap is committed to supporting this community through a variety of programs, opportunities and tools to help them build experiences and grow their creative potential. Currently, more than 375,000 AR creators, developers, and teams from nearly every country in the world have built over 4 million Lenses. Many of these are created using fifth generation Snap Spectacles, which have capabilities to better build and experiment with AR, allowing users to interact with the world and each other in entirely new ways. The MOU punctuated an action-packed Web Summit, which saw Snap take a central role in showcasing the evolution of its AR technology and reinforcing the positive role the tech plays in fostering authentic connections across the GCC. Snap’s presence included live tech demonstrations, Snap Spectacles, expert-led discussions, and AR masterclasses, bringing the power of AR to life for attendees.
