EDGE Announced as Main Sponsor of DIMDEX 2026
A Strategic Partnership Strengthening Qatar’s Role as a Global Hub for Defence Innovation The Organising Committee of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) has officially announced EDGE, one of the world’s leading advanced technology groups, as the Main Sponsor of its ninth edition, taking place from 19–22 January 2026 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC). Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Head of State and Supreme Commander of the Qatar Armed Forces, DIMDEX 2026 is hosted and organised by the Qatar Armed Forces under the theme:“A Global Hub for Defence Innovations: Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow.” EDGE Joins as Main Sponsor for the First Time Participating for the first time, EDGE’s sponsorship underscores the growing global appeal of DIMDEX as a leading international platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies, advanced maritime solutions, and strategic industry partnerships. The agreement marks a major milestone for both organisations, reinforcing Qatar’s leadership in defence innovation and expanding EDGE’s footprint in the regional and global defence market. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defence in the presence of: Building Strategic Defence Partnerships His Excellency Lt Gen (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed Al Mannai stated: “Through collaboration with regional partners, we aim to anticipate emerging challenges and deploy advanced solutions, building a resilient and secure future grounded in collective progress. Strengthening regional security demands strong partnerships and shared expertise.” Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi Saleh Al-Ansari added: “We are delighted to welcome EDGE as our Main Sponsor. DIMDEX provides the perfect global stage for EDGE to showcase its advanced defence technologies, enhance regional capabilities, and open new commercial and innovation-driven opportunities.” EDGE: Redefining Defence Innovation Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, commented: “Joining DIMDEX 2026 as the Main Sponsor marks a key step in EDGE’s journey to lead in advanced defence and maritime technologies. Our participation reflects our ambition to drive innovation, strengthen regional collaboration, and deliver solutions designed for global export.” Launched in 2019 in the UAE, EDGE has become a global powerhouse in 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) defence technologies, focusing on autonomous systems, smart weapons, electronic warfare, and naval systems — shaping the future of global defence innovation. DIMDEX: A Decade of Global Defence Excellence Now in its ninth edition, DIMDEX stands among the most prominent international maritime defence and security events, connecting industry leaders, governments, and innovators. Beyond its exhibition floor, DIMDEX serves as a strategic platform for high-level dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, advancing Qatar’s position as a global hub for security and innovation. With a focus on investment, sustainability, and advanced technologies, DIMDEX 2026 continues to showcase Qatar’s commitment to shaping the future of defence innovation and supporting global stability.
GSMA MWC25 Doha Set to Transform Qatar into a Global Innovation Hub
Over 200 Visionary Speakers, 200 Exhibitors, and 60+ Countries to Gather in Doha this November The GSMA and Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT Qatar) have unveiled new details about the highly anticipated GSMA MWC25 Doha, which will take place on 25–26 November 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). As the first-ever MWC event in the MENA region, MWC25 Doha will be a cornerstone of Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, setting the stage for groundbreaking dialogue and collaboration across technology, policy, and innovation. The two-day event will bring together: Positioning Qatar at the Heart of Global Digital Transformation At a press briefing held at DECC, the GSMA welcomed H.E. Mrs Reem Mohammed Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary of Digital Industry Affairs at MCIT Qatar, and Mr Khalid Aljumaily, Public Relations and Communication Director at MCIT Qatar, alongside GSMA CMO Lara Dewar and GSMA Ltd. CEO John Hoffman. His Excellency Mr Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasised: “Hosting the inaugural MWC25 Doha marks a historic milestone for Qatar and the region. It aligns with our mission to advance digital transformation under the Digital Agenda 2030 and the Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning Doha as a global meeting point for technology, innovation, and collaboration.” Strategic Partnerships to Drive Local and Global Impact The press conference also witnessed the signing of five key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the GSMA and significant national and international partners, including the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), Qatar University, Media City Qatar, Ooredoo, and Vodafone, to ensure the success and long-term impact of MWC Doha. A World-Class Lineup of Exhibitors and Themes The exhibition will feature technology leaders such as Cisco, Dell, Google Cloud, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Huawei, Mannai, Microsoft, Nokia, Ooredoo, PwC, Qatar University, VEON, Vodafone, ZTE, and Meeza, Qatar’s leading data center and AI services provider. According to Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA: “We are thrilled to bring MWC to Doha — a city at the forefront of digital transformation. With its strong investment ecosystem and progressive innovation policies, Qatar is the perfect host for our first MWC in the region.” Exploring the Future of AI, Connectivity, and Digital Economies Spanning three halls, MWC25 Doha will spotlight the themes driving the next wave of digital evolution: The event will also debut 4YFN (Four Years From Now) — MWC’s official startup platform — alongside the GSMA Ministerial Programme, the GSMA Digital Leaders Programme, and Smart City Expo Doha, which is organised in collaboration with Fira de Barcelona. Registration Now Open General registration for MWC25 Doha is now open.🔗 Visit www.mwcdoha.com/passes to secure your place at this landmark event redefining the digital future of the MENA region.
Hospitality Qatar 2025 Kicks Off at DECC with 150 Exhibitors from 20 Countries
A Decade of Excellence in Qatar’s Leading Hospitality and Tourism Exhibition Under the patronage of H.E. Mr Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, the 10th edition of Hospitality Qatar 2025 officially opened at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Organised by IFP Qatar, this milestone event—running from October 28 to 30, 2025—marks ten years of innovation and excellence in Qatar’s hospitality, tourism, and HORECA industries. Welcoming 150 exhibitors from 20 countries, including Argentina, Chile, India, the UAE, China, Italy, and the Netherlands, the exhibition reinforces Qatar’s global standing as a regional hub for hospitality, business, and investment. Qatar’s Tourism Vision Strengthened Mr Omar Abdelrahman Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, emphasised the exhibition’s role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape:
Polo AlMarsa Qatar: Qatar’s First-Ever Polo Showcase at Old Doha Port
Experience the Thrill of Polo in Doha This December 2025! Qatar Polo Club (QPC), under the Ministry of Sports and Youth, proudly presents Polo AlMarsa Qatar, the country’s first-ever polo showcase, taking place from 11–13 December 2025 at Terminal Park, Old Doha Port. Presented by Qatar Calendar, this landmark event celebrates Qatar’s rich equestrian heritage while forging new cultural connections with Argentina and Chile through the Qatar-Argentina and Chile 2025 Year of Culture. A World-Class Polo Experience Over three days, spectators will be immersed in high-calibre polo matches, cultural showcases, and hospitality experiences, all in a purpose-built grass arena. Highlights include: Cultural Connections through Sport As part of the Years of Culture Strategic Cultural Partnership, Polo AlMarsa Qatar strengthens bonds between nations. H.E. Mohammed Al Kuwari, Years of Culture Advisor, emphasised:“Sport and culture bring people together across borders. Polo AlMarsa connects Qatar’s equestrian heritage with Argentina and Chile, creating a cultural bridge that will endure for years.” A Celebration of Heritage, Fashion, and Entertainment The festival combines international polo matches with entertainment, fashion, art, and family activities: Exclusive Hospitality & VIP Experiences For a premium experience, ticketed lounges provide prime pitch-side views, gourmet dining, and exclusive VIP services. Sponsors and dignitaries can enjoy customised hospitality spaces to elevate their Polo AlMarsa experience. Partners and Sponsors Polo AlMarsa Qatar is proudly hosted by Qatar Polo Club, in partnership with Years of Culture, Qatar Calendar, Old Doha Port, and leading partners including QIC, Aspetar, Hurlingham Polo 1875, Qatar Living, and more. Their support ensures a world-class experience for all attendees. Join the First-Ever Polo Showcase in Qatar Don’t miss this historic celebration of polo, culture, and community at Old Doha Port. Tickets are available now. www.poloalmarsa.com
Eat Spain Drink Spain Debuts in Qatar – A Culinary Journey Like No Other
From Andalusian olive oil to Valencian paella, Spain’s finest flavours arrive in Doha this October! For the first time ever, Eat Spain Drink Spain is coming to Qatar, bringing the heart of Spanish gastronomy to Doha’s luxury hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and gourmet stores. October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar Over 15 days of flavour and culture, food lovers will discover the richness, authenticity, and creativity that make Spanish cuisine one of the world’s most celebrated. What to Expect Spanish-Inspired Menus & Tastings – Specially curated dishes and wine pairings by top chefs.Authentic Ingredients – Taste Manchego cheese (D.O.P.), Andalusian olive oil, Cantabrian seafood, bomba rice for paella, and more.Exclusive Culinary Events – From gourmet dinners to supermarket promotions, immerse yourself in the best of Spain.Cultural Activations – Experience Spain’s traditions and artistry woven into every bite. More Than a Food Festival – A Gateway to Spain Eat Spain Drink Spain is more than a campaign – it’s a celebration of Spain’s culture, innovation, and excellence in gastronomy. With past editions in the UK, Germany, the USA, and Singapore, the event has captivated audiences worldwide. Now, for the first time in the Middle East, it’s Qatar’s turn to savour the experience. Words from the Ambassador H.E. Dr. Álvaro Renedo Zalba, Ambassador of Spain to Qatar, shares:“Spanish gastronomy is a proud hallmark of our culture and a key component of our soft power. I have no doubt that visitors to Spain, and now Qatar, will be captivated by its richness and diversity.” Join the Celebration Whether you’re a foodie, a hospitality professional, or simply curious about world-class cuisine, this is your chance to:Discover award-winning Spanish products.Network with culinary experts.Enjoy unforgettable dining experiences in Doha. Don’t just eat. Don’t just drink. Experience Spain.Mark your calendars: October 1–15, 2025 | Doha, Qatar
Snoonu Attracts Top Talents From Global Tech Giants
As Snoonu accelerates its footprint across the Middle East, the Qatari-born tech powerhouse is attracting top-tier talent from global tech giants like DoorDash and Rappi, reinforcing its position as a rising leader in the region’s digital economy. With bold ambitions and a clear mission to deliver smarter, faster, and more human experiences, Snoonu has made two high-impact hires: Anastasia Zdoroviak as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Estefania Read Elizalde as Director of CX Strategy & Operations. These appointments mark a turning point in Snoonu’s journey as it builds a world-class customer experience (CX) organisation. The company’s latest strategic hires reflect its commitment to innovation, diversity, and creating unforgettable digital experiences. “Bringing in global leaders like Anastasia and Estefania is not just about expertise—it’s about perspective,” said Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu. “Qatar’s tech ecosystem is becoming a magnet for global talent, and Snoonu is at the center of this transformation.” A seasoned CX leader with over a decade of experience across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe, Anastasia Zdoroviak brings an exceptional global lens to Snoonu. She previously led transformative customer experience functions at DoorDash and Rappi, two of the world’s most successful last-mile delivery platforms. With fluency in over a dozen languages and a passion for human-centered design, Anastasia is set to redefine personalised, tech-driven customer journeys at scale across the region. Meet Estefania Read Elizalde – Director of CX Strategy & Operations A U.S.-Mexico dual national and University of Cambridge MBA graduate, Estefania specialises in agile strategy and cross-functional CX operations. With a strong background in tech operations and new market scale-ups, Estefania is here to optimise Snoonu’s regional growth engine. Building the Middle East’s Most Multicultural Tech Team Snoonu’s CX team is now among the most diverse and multicultural in the GCC, representing a fusion of Silicon Valley mindset and Middle Eastern innovation. Backed by a new partnership with Jahez Group (Saudi Arabia)—one of the region’s leading digital platforms—Snoonu is fast becoming a central player in the Gulf’s integrated tech ecosystem.
Doha Film Institute Empowers Global Talent with 2025 Spring Grants Cycle
Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the recipients of its highly anticipated 2025 Spring Grants cycle, reaffirming its role as the region’s longest-serving and most influential film development initiative. Supporting 45 diverse projects by Arab and international filmmakers from over 35 countries, this cycle continues DFI’s mission to amplify authentic storytelling and cultivate bold, independent voices worldwide. Since inception, the DFI Grants programme has backed more than 950 films from over 75 countries, nurturing first- and second-time directors through biannual funding rounds each Spring and Fall. This season’s recipients span feature narratives, documentaries, shorts, TV and web series—highlighting DFI’s inclusive support across genres and formats. The 2025 Spring cycle showcases remarkable diversity: 16 projects led by women filmmakers, 12 returning grantees, and five projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent. Notably, this year also welcomes powerful perspectives from Yemen and Sudan, with stories told through women’s voices, alongside strong Gulf representation from Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Selected projects explore deeply human themes—from a Baghdad actor’s struggle under Saddam Hussein’s rule (Madness and Honey Days), to poetic journeys of identity and resilience (Renoir, Imagine Me Like a Country of Love). Standout Qatari projects include Sari & Amira, a mythic narrative of survival set in Wadi Sakheema, and The Maker: A Journey of Bisht, chronicling a foreigner’s discovery of cultural heritage in Qatar. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of Doha Film Institute, commented: “Our Grants programme was founded to offer tangible support for original stories and important voices from around the world. These 45 films reflect the bold, diverse, and deeply human stories that challenge convention and are shaping the future of cinema. In a time marked by conflict, displacement and uncertainty, these stories offer urgently needed perspectives and affirm the role of film as a witness, a bridge and a call to empathy.” Beyond supporting production and post-production, the DFI Grants cycle serves as a catalyst for international collaboration, bridging talent from the Middle East with filmmakers from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. The 2025 selection includes projects from Japan, South Africa, India, the Netherlands, Russia, and beyond—reflecting DFI’s commitment to cinematic excellence without borders. With over a decade of empowering filmmakers and bringing untold stories to the global screen, the Doha Film Institute continues to solidify Qatar’s position as a cultural hub and creative catalyst. The 2025 Spring Grants cycle exemplifies the Institute’s enduring dedication to supporting visionary filmmaking that resonates locally and globally—stories that inspire dialogue, understanding and change. For more information, visit: www.dohafilminstitute.com
Store974 Makes History as the First Arabic Brand to Represent Qatar at Computex 2025
Store974, Qatar’s leading name in gaming and tech retail, has officially put the nation on the global tech map by becoming the first Arabic brand to participate in Computex 2025—the world’s most prestigious and influential technology expo, held from May 20–23 in Taipei, Taiwan. A Landmark Moment for Qatar and the Arab World This proud milestone positions Store974 not only as a national success story but also as a Middle Eastern tech pioneer, representing the region’s ambitions, innovation, and talent on an international stage. “We are honored to represent Qatar and the Arab world at Computex 2025,” said Khalifa Al Haroon, CEO of Store974. “This is more than participation—it’s a statement that Qatar is serious about shaping the future of technology and gaming.” Capping off its powerful presence at Computex, Store974 won the Best Distributor Award for the second consecutive year, recognizing its excellence in retail innovation, global brand partnerships, and customer satisfaction. This achievement solidifies its position as a regional leader in gaming and technology distribution. Highlights from Computex 2025 Store974’s showcase featured: The booth was a magnet for international tech leaders, drawing attention to Qatar’s potential as a future hub for gaming, esports, and hardware innovation. Store974’s participation wasn’t just symbolic—it reflects a broader mission:To bridge the gap between the Middle East and the global technology landscape, encourage cross-border innovation, and open doors for regional players in the global arena.
Tata Motors Strengthens Presence in Qatar with Launch of All-New LPO 1622 Bus
Delivering Advanced Mobility, Unmatched Comfort, and Best-in-Class Total Cost of Ownership In a bold stride toward enhancing staff transportation in the Middle East, Tata Motors, one of the world’s most trusted commercial vehicle manufacturers, has officially launched its all-new LPO 1622 bus in Qatar. Partnering with Al Hamad Automobiles, its regional official distributor, Tata Motors reinforces its commitment to advanced, efficient, and reliable mobility solutions for the Qatari market. Euro VI-Compliant Innovation for the Middle East Designed specifically for staff transportation, the LPO 1622 is Tata Motors’ first Euro VI-compliant bus in the Middle East, aligning with global emissions standards and offering: These features deliver optimal passenger comfort, operational safety, and long-term value for fleet operators. “Qatar remains a strategic priority for Tata Motors,” said Mr. Asif Shamim, Head of International Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles. “With the LPO 1622, we bring higher profitability and next-level comfort for mass mobility.” Local Support, Regional Vision Mr. Mohamed Yousef Al Mana, Chairman of Al Hamad Automobiles, emphasized the strong partnership with Tata Motors: “With a nationwide service network, genuine spare parts availability, and skilled teams, we ensure maximum uptime and support for customers across Qatar.” This launch is a strategic milestone in Tata Motors’ plan to expand in the Gulf commercial mobility market, offering robust transportation solutions backed by world-class aftersales infrastructure. Tata’s Heavy Truck Range Also Gets a Boost In addition to the LPO 1622, Tata Motors introduced its enhanced Prima Euro V truck range – including Prima 4040.K, 4440.S, 4040.T, and 6040.S – built to support Qatar’s booming infrastructure and construction sectors.
Ibtechar Partners with AI Crafters to Accelerate AI Adoption in Qatar
Empowering organisations through cutting-edge AI solutions and supporting Qatar’s National AI Strategy In a bold move to strengthen Qatar’s digital innovation landscape, Ibtechar, a leading innovation consultancy, has announced a strategic two-year partnership with AI Crafters, a pioneering artificial intelligence firm. The collaboration aims to accelerate AI adoption in Qatar, enabling businesses and institutions to integrate AI into their operations and drive data-driven decision-making seamlessly. Building Qatar’s Future Through Artificial Intelligence This timely alliance supports Qatar’s National AI Strategy and Vision 2030, aiming to position Qatar as a regional hub for AI transformation. As AI reshapes industries globally, Qatar’s businesses face both opportunity and complexity in adopting the technology. The Ibtechar x AI Crafters partnership will address these challenges with: