Almana Group and XPENG Drive Qatar’s Smart Mobility Revolution
Almana Group, one of Qatar’s most established and diversified business conglomerates, has officially announced the entry of XPENG — the pioneering Chinese intelligent electric vehicle brand — into the Qatari market. Through its subsidiary Pioneer Motors Company, Almana Group unveiled XPENG at a grand ceremony held at The St. Regis Doha, marking a significant leap toward advancing Qatar’s smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. The event drew an audience of senior government officials, diplomats, and industry leaders, highlighting the strategic importance of XPENG’s arrival under the stewardship of Almana Group. As the official distributor of XPENG in Qatar, Pioneer Motors underscores Almana’s long-standing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric mobility solutions. “Our partnership with XPENG reflects our confidence in the future of electric and intelligent mobility, as well as our commitment to contributing to Qatar’s journey of innovation and sustainability,” said Tariq Omar Al-Mana, Vice President – Automotive Division, Almana Group.“As we embrace this new era, we continue to build bridges between Qatar and the world through technology, trust, and forward-thinking enterprise.” A New Era of Intelligent Mobility Founded in 2014 and listed on both the New York Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, XPENG has rapidly emerged as a global leader in AI-driven mobility, autonomous driving, and software-defined vehicles. XPENG’s intelligent systems seamlessly combine cutting-edge software, advanced EV performance, and a refined in-cabin experience designed to meet the expectations of modern, tech-savvy drivers. “This collaboration represents a bold step forward for Almana Group as we diversify our automotive portfolio and invest in technologies shaping the future of transportation,” stated Almoatasim Billah Sharqawi, Group CEO, Almana Group.“By introducing XPENG to Qatar, we contribute to the evolution of a smarter and more sustainable mobility ecosystem.” Amer Omar Hassan, COO – Group Automotive at Almana Group, added: “The addition of XPENG to our portfolio marks a major leap for Almana Group and Qatar’s mobility landscape. XPENG’s AI-powered technology will redefine driving experiences and set new standards in intelligent performance and sustainability.” From XPENG’s perspective, the partnership is equally strategic. “We are honoured to partner with Almana Group — a name synonymous with trust and innovation in Qatar,” said Ken, General Manager of XPENG Middle East & Africa.“Together, we are not just launching a brand; we are introducing a new vision of intelligent mobility for Qatari consumers.” XPENG Models Debut in Qatar XPENG G6 — Intelligent Coupe SUV A dynamic EV that blends performance, range, and everyday practicality. XPENG G9 — Flagship Luxury SUV The executive benchmark for comfort, technology, and speed. XPENG P7+ — Intelligent Sports Sedan (Coming Soon) Currently in pre-production, the P7+ combines dynamic design and intelligent control. Driving the Future of Mobility in Qatar With XPENG’s official debut, Almana Group reinforces its position as a catalyst for innovation in Qatar’s automotive landscape — integrating AI, electrification, and user-centric design to elevate mobility experiences for consumers and communities alike. As Qatar accelerates toward its sustainable transport vision, the partnership between Almana Group and XPENG represents a defining moment — one that fuses heritage, innovation, and global collaboration to shape the future of smart mobility.
Project to connect GCC through rail to see light of day in 2030: Minister
DOHA: H.E. Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transport, chaired the 26th Meeting of the Committee of Ministers of Transport of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Doha, reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to regional connectivity and sustainable development in the transportation sector. The meeting included GCC ministers of transportation and H.E. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, GCC Secretary-General. In his opening address, Al Sulaiti emphasized the importance of collaboration among GCC countries to advance collective transportation infrastructure, a priority backed by GCC leaders. Central to this agenda is the ambitious GCC Railways Project, expected to be completed by 2030, which will link GCC countries, streamline regional trade routes, and connect logistics hubs, economic zones, and key ports. This project aims to enhance regional economic integration and provide safe, efficient transportation for passengers and cargo. The Minister highlighted recent advancements in GCC port capacities, which have positioned them among the top-ranked in efficiency worldwide, as measured by the World Bank. He noted that GCC countries have developed state-of-the-art, eco-friendly transportation systems equipped with smart technology, supporting carbon reduction initiatives to achieve long-term carbon neutrality. This progress has earned international recognition, underscoring the GCC’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure. During the meeting, GCC ministers discussed strategies to further cooperation, including updates on the GCC Railways Project, the General Agreement for regional railway connectivity, and executive regulations for land transportation. Additional topics included regulations for merchant vessel access to GCC waters, conditions for offshore unit driving licenses, and guidelines for other transportation regulations to ensure the seamless integration of regional networks. Minister Al Sulaiti pointed to the transportation sector as pivotal to the success of broader GCC development plans, with significant investments supporting regional highway networks and expanding travel, passenger, and cargo options. The recent focus on balanced economic and social integration, he noted, is driving substantial progress across the region, solidifying the GCC’s role in connecting markets and communities for a prosperous future.
WISH summit calls for protecting healthcare
Doha, Qatar – Qatar Foundation’s 7th World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH 7) opened yesterday at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), under the theme “Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience.” The event, graced by H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, brought together global health policymakers, innovators, researchers, and practitioners to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges. The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Minister of Public Health H E Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al Mahmoud, former Minister of Public Health H E Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, WISH CEO Slim Slama, Executive Chair of WISH Lord Darzi of Denham, and President of Médecins Sans Frontières Dr. Christos Christou. In her opening address, H E Al Kuwari emphasized Qatar’s commitment to fostering global cooperation and tackling urgent health challenges. She highlighted the theme of this year’s summit, stating, “This year’s theme, ‘Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience,’ reflects our dedication to addressing profound health issues, especially for those enduring unimaginable hardships.” Al Kuwari also called attention to the critical need for healthcare protection in conflict zones, advocating for rebuilding lives with compassion and resilience. Dr. Christos Christou echoed this sentiment, stressing that attacks on healthcare facilities have become a troubling “new norm,” especially in regions like Gaza. He called for accountability and tangible action to protect healthcare workers and facilities, noting, “There are many doctors in Gaza amputating on children without anaesthetic, scrambling without basic medicines.” A powerful film shown during the opening ceremony shared the story of 11-year-old Dareen Al Bayaa, a Palestinian girl who lost 47 family members in a devastating attack in Gaza on October 22, 2023. Dareen and her five-year-old brother are now in Doha for medical care. Day one of WISH 7 included discussions on several reports developed in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), covering topics such as protecting healthcare in conflict zones, combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the ethics of AI in Gulf-region healthcare. Additional sessions examined women’s cancer, palliative care, and the impact of the war in Sudan. Today, the summit will continue with discussions on mental health, obesity, diabetes, and other key topics. WISH 7 will conclude with the announcement of winners in the WISH innovation competitions and the launch of the new CARDIO4Cities initiative, aimed at tackling urban cardiovascular health challenges.
Ministry of Education and Higher Education completes development of “Educational Institutions Licensing” platform
Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Education and Higher Education has launched the “Educational Institutions Licensing” platform, now accessible to educational entities throughout Qatar. This initiative forms part of the Ministry’s commitment to bolstering the digital infrastructure for private education, streamlining licensing procedures, and providing a user-friendly, secure online experience for stakeholders. Designed to improve administrative efficiency, the platform allows educational institutions to apply for and monitor licensing processes more effectively, a step anticipated to elevate the quality of educational services across Qatar. Omar Abdulaziz Al-Naama, Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Affairs, commented on the initiative: “The launch of the Private Educational Institutions Licensing Platform represents a significant advancement in the automation of educational services. It aligns with the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, to foster a supportive environment for education sector investment and meet the country’s developmental needs.” Dr. Mona Salem Al-Fadhli, Director of the Information Systems Department, also emphasized the platform’s role in the Ministry’s digital transformation: “This platform offers a streamlined, integrated experience for licensing applications, covering all services for nurseries, educational centers, schools, and private kindergartens. Investors can complete, manage, and follow up on transactions online through a fully automated portal, reducing the need for in-person visits.” The platform offers various services, including issuing, renewing, and managing licenses for educational institutions, modifying entity details, granting permissions for advertising and events, and providing options for license cancellations. With a focus on Qatar’s National Vision 2030, the platform also establishes a modern framework to enhance private education standards, benefiting both investors and educational service providers. This launch marks a transformative shift towards efficiency, accessibility, and higher quality service in Qatar’s private education sector.
