Progress 2018-2019 E

Building a Legacy of Excellence

2018-2019

HH THE AMIR SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI

HH THE FATHER AMIR SHEIKH HAMAD BIN KHALIFA AL THANI

INDEX MADE IN QATAR: 14-16 MAKING THE NATION STRONGER PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

ECONOMY: 17-40

YOUSUF BIN JASSIM AL DARWISH

ECONOMY REMAINS ROBUST IN BETTER SHAPE THAN BEFORE QATAR DRAWS UP AMBITIOUS PLANS QIA: GOING STRONG UNHINDERED GROWTH INSURING FOR THE FUTURE ISLAMIC FINANCE KEY FOR QATAR NEIGHBOURS’ ENVY, OWNERS’ PRIDE FLUCTUATING FORTUNES

MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO

JASSIM YOUSUF AL DARWISH MANAGER

DR. FAISAL FOUAD EDITORIAL CHIEF EDITOR

MARKETING SALES MANAGER

IZDIHAR IBRAHIM

EDUCATION AND HIGHER EUCATION: 41-56 SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUCATION HBKU: INNOVATING TODAY, SHAPING TOMORROW QATAR UNIVERSITY, A PIONEER OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE VCUARTS: A CENTRE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN ART AND DESIGN IDEAS THAT SHAPE YOUR WORLD START HERE

SONY VELLATT

EDITOR

TEAM

V.L. SRINIVASAN ALEXANDRA EVANGELISTA

ZUHAIB SIDDIQUI EVENTS DIRECTOR

KHALID MOHANNA

ART SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

MANSOUR ELSHEIKH

INFRASTRUCTURE: 57-78

ACCOUNTANT

PRATAP CHANDRAN

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

MAKING IT TO THE TOP FLYING HIGH REFLECTIONS ON ENDEAVOUR PROVING CRITICS WRONG DARWISH INTERSERVE: A PIONEER IN FACILITY AND SERVICES MANAGEMENT MAKING RAPID PROGRESS BUILDING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE DEVELOPING THE STRATEGIC INVENTORY INTEGRATED SYSTEM OF SOLUTIONS

HUSSEIN ALBAZ MOHAMMED RIYAZ

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

ESLAM ELMAHALAWY

DISTRIBUTION DEPARTMENT

BASANTA POKHREL

ICT: 79-86 QATAR ON THE THRESHOLD OF A HUGE DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE GREAT TECHNOLOGICAL ACHIEVEMENT VODAFONE: UNLIMITED POTENTIAL

CULTURE, SPORTS AND TOURISM: 87-96 A BEACON OF ARTS, CULTURE AND DIVERSITY QATAR: A GLOBAL SPORTS HUB QATAR IN BECOMING A COUNTRY OF DESTINATION

QATAR AND THE WORLD: 97-106

Published by Oryx Publishing and Advertising Co WLL P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, 44667584 Fax: (+974) 44550982 Email: info@oryxpublishing.com Website: www.oryxpublishing.com

AMIR’S CLARION CALL TO END REGIONAL FEUDS A YEAR OF GOOD RELATIONS

HEALTH: 107-110 NATIONAL STRATEGY SETS AMBITIOUS GOALS

ENVIRONMENT: 111-113

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QATAR STRIVES FOR SUSTAINABILITY

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PRESENTATION

FOREWORD The achievements of the State of Qatar continue every year despite the continued deterioration of the geopolitical and economic situation in the region. The year 2018 was one of achievement in all aspects of life, especially for Qatari industry. The state continued to develop existing industries and to open new facilities, especially in the field of food security. However, the blockade against Qatar highlighted its capabilities and potential to achieve self-sufficiency and strengthen its national economy through alternative resources.

Qatar has focused on the challenges of food security due to the close link of this aspect to the stability of the national economy. This is why it has exerted considerable efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in food supplies to satisfy local needs, and proved its ability to depend on itself, following the blockade. A number of Qatari businessmen invested in food production, and the government launched initiatives to create a momentum for the private sector to direct its investments to food security projects. Adopting this policy, Qatar Chamber encourages its members to participate in these projects through the organization of a number of specialized exhibitions to highlight the role of local industries in satisfying the needs of the local market. We can expect to see in the near future an increase in food security investment and in self-sufficiency.

A strategy has been developed to take advantage of modern technologies and resources available for the agricultural, livestock and fisheries sectors to meet the challenges facing food security projects in the country. The State of Qatar is accelerating the implementation of the projects aimed at balancing local production and imports to achieve selfsufficiency and abundant productivity.

The country ended 2018 and started the new year by achieving five important developments in the field of food security: the announcement of Qatar National Food Security Programme (QNFSP), of which a sizable portion has been achieved; the activation of the QNFSP committee's decision to set the maximum price and profit ratios in sales outlets – a decision that will provide substantial support for the marketing of agricultural and food products and for food security strategy; the inauguration of 75 projects that contribute to the production of food in the country, including 10 projects for the production of vegetables, 15 for the production of fish and 50 for the production of meat, dairy, poultry, eggs and fodder, in addition to starting the export of surplus milk and milk products; the listing of the country’s first milk and milk products company, on the stock market; and starting the operation of Hassad Food Company that specializes in the export of food products.

Qatar has also decided to achieve 100% self-sufficiency in milk and milk products (650 tons per day), export the surplus to regional markets, meet the country's needs for fresh poultry (22,000 tons), start commercial production of frozen poultry (96,000 tons), and produce 65% of fresh red meat needed in the local market (annual consumption is 150,000 tons), 85% of fresh fish (annual consumption is 22 tons), 65% of vegetables (daily consumption is 700 tons), and 30% of domestic consumption of eggs. Despite the blockade, which entered its third year, and the unstable geopolitical conditions plaguing the region, the Ministry of Finance estimated that the general budget of the State of Qatar for 2019 will achieve a surplus of 4.3 billion riyals as a result of higher energy prices in the world markets and higher revenues in other sectors (non-oil). The average price of a barrel of oil was estimated in the 2019 budget at $55 compared to $45 in 2018 budget. Estimates of total revenues increased by 20.5% to stand at 211.0 billion riyals compared to 175.1 billion riyals registered in the 2018 budget. Expenditure estimates increased by 1.7% to reach 206.7 billion riyals for 2019 compared to 203.2 billion riyals registered in 2018.

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CONTENTS

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ECONOMY REMAINS ROBUST The unjust economic blockade imposed

by Saudi Arabia and its allies since June 2017 has neither stunted Qatar’s growth nor adversely impacted the ongoing programmes and projects in the country.

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IN BETTER SHAPE THAN BEFORE Overcoming the hurdles posed by the economic boycott by Saudi Arabia and three other Arab nations, Qatar’s banking sector continued its growth in 2018.

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QATAR DRAWS UP AMBITIOUS PLANS Qatar has announced its intention to invest billions of dollars around the world including in the US, Mexico and many countries in Africa.

MAKING THE NATION STRONGER Placing Qatar alongside the prestigious group of nations which have achieved self- sufficiency, the “Made in Qatar” exhibition has proved to be a success after it was launched a decade ago.

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QIA: GOING STRONG A new chief and spurt in investments in various sectors such as technology, hospitality were among the prominent developments that took place in the stateowned Sovereign Wealth Fund – Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) – in 2018.

UNHINDERED GROWTH The economic boycott by Saudi Arabia and its allies for the last year and a half notwithstanding, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) continued its march far ahead of its regional adversaries, registering the highest growth in 2018.

INSURING FOR THE FUTURE A major development that took place in the insurance sector in 2018 was establishment of a fund for the welfare of workers in the country.

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ISLAMIC FINANCE KEY FOR QATAR The Islamic finance industry has emerged as one of the key sectors for the sustained development of Qatar’s financial system and has exhibited resilience even as oil prices tumbled in the last few years.

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NEIGHBOURS’ ENVY, OWNERS’ PRIDE Continuing its onward march on the path of success, registered 532 new firms during the first six months in 2018, an increase of 69 percent compared with the corresponding period in the previous year.

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FLUCTUATING FORTUNES As in other regions around the world including the GCC, Qatar’s real estate market has been fluctuating in the last few years due to the speculation and imbalances between supply and demand forces.

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CONTENTS

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QATAR UNIVERSITY, A PIONEER OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Dr. Hassan bin Rashid Al Dirham, President of Qatar University, said Qatar University's march began when the Green Book of the Gulf University was published.

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HBKU: INNOVATING TODAY, SHAPING TOMORROW Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) was founded in 2010 as a research-intensive university that acts as a catalyst for transformative change in Qatar and while having a global impact.

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUCATION The education sector has been witnessing significant expansion, with total appropriations amounting to QR19 billion in the 2018 budget.

VCUARTS: A CENTRE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN ART AND DESIGN VCUarts Qatar is the international branch campus of Virginia Commonwealth University’s prestigious School of the Arts, which has been a top-ranked art and design programme in the U.S. for more than 10 years.

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CONTENTS 58

MAKING IT TO THE TOP After launching operations in December 2016, Hamad Port has not only found a place among the top seaports in the world but has also developed connectivity, with more than 40 ports spread over three continents, and offers over 24 shipping services.

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MAKING RAPID PROGRESS With less than four years to go for Qatar to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the organisers are making all efforts to complete the stadiums as well as other arrangements to make the event a grand success.

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PROVING CRITICS WRONG When the unjust economic boycott

by Saudi Arabia and its allies took place in June 2017, many countries doubted whether Qatar would be able to complete the infrastructure works pertaining to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in time.

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FLYING HIGH Qatar Airways, the national carrier, enjoyed great success in 2018, with a robust network expansion and new aircraft taking the fleet's strength to more than 230.

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DEVELOPING THE STRATEGIC INVENTORY Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA) confirmed that 2018 witnessed achievements despite the unjust blockade imposed on Qatar.

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DARWISH INTERSERVE: A PIONEER IN FACILITY AND SERVICES MANAGEMENT The State of Qatar is witnessing the largest economic and urban growth in its modern history.

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REFLECTIONS ON ENDEAVOUR In March 2019, GWC celebrates 15 years since its establishment.

Looking back on this period, there is so much we can be proud of.

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QATAR ON THE THRESHOLD OF A HUGE DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE Since September 2013, the e-Government Steering Committee has urged all government agencies to develop and supervise digital service plans in order to achieve the Qatar government's 2020 digital strategy objectives.

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GREAT TECHNOLOGICAL ACHIEVEMENT Ooredoo entered the new year with preparations and a serious effort to continue the company's successes and achievements of 2018.

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VODAFONE: UNLIMITED POTENTIAL Vodafone Qatar brings unlimited potential to its ventures in breaking technological boundaries.

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QATAR: A GLOBAL SPORTS HUB Doha continuously strives to strengthen its status as a global sports hub.

112 QATAR STRIVES FOR SUSTAINABILITY Qatar continues to strive for sustainable development as the nation relentlessly commits to environmental initiatives.

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A BEACON OF ARTS, CULTURE AND DIVERSITY Qatar consistently exhibits wealth in arts and culture by being a bridge and a platform for local and international masterpieces.

108 NATIONAL STRATEGY SETS AMBITIOUS GOALS

Qatar has taken giant steps towards building a health system of the highest international standards.

PROGRESS 2018-2019 MADE IN QATAR

MAKING THE NATION STRONGER PLACING QATAR ALONGSIDE THE PRESTIGIOUS GROUP OF NATIONS WHICH HAVE ACHIEVED SELFSUFFICIENCY, THE “MADE IN QATAR” EXHIBITION HAS PROVED TO BE A SUCCESS AFTER IT WAS LAUNCHED A DECADE AGO.

Held under the auspices of the Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the event has been supported by several leading industrial companies and factories, banks and institutions since its inception in 2009. It is the biggest industrial expo in the country and is organised by the Qatar Chamber (QC) in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy and Industry. The main objective of the expo is to support and promote Qatari products in the pursuit of achieving self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on imported items. Speaking about the event, His Excellency the Minister of Commerce and Industry Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari said: “Qatar aims to promote its industries and familiarize the global community with investment opportunities across the country, particularly in industries.” Moreover, Al Kuwari also underscored the importance of EMIR THE STATE OF QATAR Qatar’s OF participation in the exhibition, noting that HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH TAMIM it falls in line with the ongoing efforts to promote BIN HAMAD AL THANI SPEAKS the state’s industrial capabilities.

Shedding light DURING THE OPENING SESSION on the initiative, the fair provides an important OF THE 72ND UNITED NATIONS opportunity for Qatari businessmen, investors and GENERAL ASSEMBLY AT THE UN to executives from the largest national companies HEADQUARTERS IN NEW YORK learn about the latest innovations and industrial

ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2017.

“THE NATIONAL PRODUCTS ARE COMPETING AND SUBSTITUTING FOR NUMEROUS IMPORTED GOODS, NOTING THAT THE NUMBER OF LOCAL FACTORIES HAS GROWN TO 809.

SOME 116 ENTITIES ALSO KICKED OFF IN PRODUCTION FOLLOWING THE IMPOSITION OF THE UNJUST SIEGE, WHILE 690 INDUSTRIAL LICENCES WERE ISSUED FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS.”

HE ALI BIN AHMED AL KUWARI MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY STATE OF QATAR

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technologies to have an edge to promote in new markets. Aside from this, he also mentioned the massive growth of Qatar’s industrial sector in recent years with the establishment of numerous companies and factories across vital sectors, particularly in food industries. He also highlighted the industrial projects currently being undertaken in the small and medium-scale industrial sector, noting that Qatar attracted 362 projects while 739 land plots were allocated for additional projects.

“These indicators demonstrate the success of Qatar’s plans to support and enhance the contribution of national companies to the diversification of the national economy in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030,” Al Kuwari said. According to Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, the expo represents a major industrial platform that brings together local companies and factories on a single platform to know the locally manufactured products, their strengths and what the country’s markets need from the new industries. Hailing the Amir for patronising all editions of the exhibition, which supported businessmen to put in additional efforts to develop the country’s

PROGRESS 2018-2019 MADE IN QATAR

industry and create a demand for Qatari products, the QC Chairman said that it aimed to reduce the country’s dependence on oil and gas as the only sources of income and helped in the economic diversification programme.

GREAT OPPORTUNITIES “Qatar has great opportunities to establish many factories of value to the economy despite the great development the Qatari industry has already achieved. The local products have become the most important pillars of the national economy and the QC strongly supports the continuing efforts to achieve comprehensive development goals covering all areas,” he pointed out. He further said that the various segments of the exhibition highlighted the identity of local products through a vast partnership of different production entities, based on openness and diversity of the sources of income. He said that the manufacturing sector has been an essential contributor to the growing share of the domestic market’s needs and a launch pad for promising export opportunities. This comes in line with the increase in non-oil exports reported in the monthly

report issued by the Chamber, he averred. He also detailed the efforts of Qatar Chamber to promote the concept and content of local industry as well as its efforts to promote and introduce its diverse projects, as well as to emphasise the need to work to provide opportunities for further investments.

“The Chamber has created a dynamic private sector capable of contributing effectively to the country’s GDP growth,” he added.

“QATAR HAS GREAT OPPORTUNITIES TO ESTABLISH MANY FACTORIES OF VALUE TO THE ECONOMY DESPITE THE GREAT DEVELOPMENT THE QATARI INDUSTRY HAS ALREADY ACHIEVED. THE LOCAL PRODUCTS HAVE BECOME THE MOST IMPORTANT PILLARS OF NATIONAL ECONOMY AND THE QC STRONGLY SUPPORTS THE CONTINUING EFFORTS TO ACHIEVE COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT GOALS COVERING ALL AREAS.”

SHEIKH KHALIFA BIN JASSIM AL THANI CHAIRMAN, QATAR CHAMBER

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DEVELOPING LOCAL INDUSTRY Qatar Chamber Director General Saleh bin Hamad Al Sharqi said that the wide presence of Qatari companies in the country’s biggest industrial exhibition clearly reflected the efforts to develop local industry in various sectors. Al Sharqi recalled that agreements were signed between Kazakhstan and Qatar and also a similar pact between Qatar Development Bank and Qatar Stock Exchange to encourage small and medium enterprises to be listed on the Qatari bourse. Agreements were also signed between the local and foreign firms planning to enter the Qatari market during the exhibitions held a couple of years ago. They included a

PROGRESS 2018-2019 MADE IN QATAR

partnership between Al Bandari Group and Presta Oil of Bulgaria.

EXPO IN OMAN Besides Qatar, the expo was also held twice in the Sultanate of Oman drawing huge visitors including prominent businessmen on both occasions. In December 2018, the Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari and President of Oman’s General Authority for Investment Promotion and Export Development Yahia bin Saeed Al Jabri inaugurated the expo under the patronage of the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani. Several dignitaries including Qatar’s Ambassador to Oman HE Ali bin Fahad Falah Al Hajri, First Vice-Chairman of Qatar Chamber Mohammed bin Ahmed bin Towar Al Kuwari, and Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousuf were present. HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari stressed that the exhibition, which was being organised for the second time outside Qatar and hosted by the

Sultanate of Oman, embodied the keenness of the two countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation to establish investment and trade projects that serve the development orientations. The Minister said: “The products offered at the expo are important industries for domestic production and export abroad and the new investment law, which allows 100% ownership by non-Qataris, will benefit Omani companies wishing to enter the Qatari market.” He said the exhibition’s slogan is Industry: A Strategic Choice and was timely to encourage many Qatari and Omani businessmen and manufacturers to enter into partnerships and bilateral agreements, as the two sides agreed to hold several forums in the near future to achieve greater harmony and convergence between the Omani and Qatari business communities. Al Kuwari concluded that Qatar Chamber supports the partnership between the Omani and Qatari sides, and encourages Omani businessmen to invest in Qatar by offering promising investment opportunities in Qatar and the proper guidance.

In his comments, Deputy Chairman of Oman

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Chamber of Commerce for Economic Affairs and Branches Dr Salim Al Junaibi praised the exhibition and the participating companies, which offer diversified industries of all the various sectors of the economy. In a statement on the sidelines of the exhibition, second Vice Chairman of Qatar Chamber Rashid bin Hamad Al Athba praised the interest evinced by Omani businessmen to participate in the event. Al Athba pointed out that the exhibition was an important platform for introducing the Omani business community to Qatari industries and the investment opportunities available in the industrial sector. The bilateral meetings between businessmen from both countries were fruitful and they discussed matters regarding promotion of mutual investments. Al Athba explained that the “Made in Qatar” exhibition witnessed a remarkable turnout of Omani businessmen, who were informed about the Qatari industries, adding that he expects the conclusion of many deals between Qatari and Omani companies in the future.

PROGRESS 2018-2019

ECONOMY SLUG NAME

HE ALI BIN AHMED AL KUWARI MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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PROGRESS 2018-2019 ECONOMY

ECONOMY REMAINS ROBUST THE UNJUST ECONOMIC BLOCKADE IMPOSED BY SAUDI ARABIA AND ITS ALLIES SINCE JUNE 2017 HAS NEITHER STUNTED QATAR’S GROWTH NOR ADVERSELY IMPACTED THE ONGOING PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS IN THE COUNTRY.

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ith optimism and confidence high among the business community, Qatar overcame the impact of the blockade to a large extent as growing revenues from the energy sector eased the fiscal constraints and the World Bank predicted that Qatar's economic growth rate would reach 2.8 percent in 2018, and further rise to around 3 percent in 2019-20 due to increasing energy prices.

The World Bank’s report is based on the fact that Qatar is the world’s biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas and will be hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022. The World Bank also said that one potential headwind that Qatar, along with a number of other GCC nations, faces has been the rising US interest rates. Qatar’s peg to the US dollar means that monetary policy will gradually tighten in tandem with the US monetary policy. However, government spending will be maintained at current levels, which could help offset any negative impact from rate hikes given the economy’s current rising growth. Another plus for Qatar’s economy is key tax policy and administration measures, which are expected to

“THE NEW INVESTMENT IS A SIGN OF QATAR’S TRUST IN THE STRENGTH OF THE GERMAN ECONOMY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF INVESTING IN IT.”

HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI THE AMIR STATE OF QATAR

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further contain the fiscal deficit over the medium term, although inflation is likely to rise to close to 2.4 percent in 2018, the World Bank added.

However, the newly created Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA) expects Qatar’s overall economic performance to improve due to an increasing real GDP growth rate, which is forecast to edge up from 2.6 percent in 2018 to 2.9 percent in 2019 and 3.1 percent in 2020. The non-hydrocarbon sector is predicted to contribute most of that growth in the first two years of the outlook period, deriving especially from the services and manufacturing sectors. At present, Qatar’s economy is benefiting from the growth and expansion of the global economy, notwithstanding the political and security tensions in the region, the PSA said in a recently released report entitled "Qatar Economic Outlook 2018-2020."

OUTLOOK STABLE The global credit rating agencies, which were pessimistic about Qatar’s economic growth soon after the blockade in June 2017, revised their outlook to stable reflecting their faith in the financial and economic performance of the country.

PROGRESS 2018-2019 ECONOMY

It became evident that the economy has been doing well when Qatar raised QR43.68 billion ($12 billion) in a sovereign bond issue in the international financial markets and the volume of subscription for the Initial Public Offering reached QR192.92 billion ($53 billion) at moderate interest rates during 2018. Addressing the opening of the 47th Ordinary Session of the Advisory Council, His Highness, The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, said that the exports increased by 18 percent, leading to a significant improvement in the public budget, trade balance and current account. “The banking system regained in less than ten months the level of indicators that prevailed before the blockade, while the level of some of them became even better. In addition, Qatar Central Bank regained its reserve level, and the Qatari Riyal has maintained its value and free circulation. The State continued to provide funding for the World Cup projects without compromising the projects required to achieve the National Vision,” he explained.

ECONOMY GETS BOOST The economy was also given fillip after Qatar opened new trade routes looking for better partners following the economic blockade and also initiated a slew of measures to further bolster investment, and a new law is expected that will allow up to 100 percent foreign ownership in most sectors outside of banking and insurance.

PSA President HE Dr Saleh bin Mohamed Alnabit said that real GDP growth will be further supported by the hydrocarbon sector, benefiting from the expected increase in global demand for oil and gas combined with the lifting of the OPEC production ceiling, and from new gas development projects entering their production and export phase.

Moreover, the inflation rate is expected to remain at low levels, ranging between less than 1 and 2.5 percent, and the fiscal deficit is expected to decline due to increased oil and gas revenues and increased efficiency and effectiveness of government spending.

“The current account balance is projected to register a surplus during the forecast period (20182020) and oil prices continue to improve. However,

the main risks to Qatar’s overall economic performance are sudden changes and shocks in the global economy and therefore in worldwide oil and gas markets, especially the resultant price decline potentially triggered by global trade anxieties and regional political tensions,” he said.

According to reports, acting group CEO of Qatar National Bank Abdulla Mubarak Al Khalifa said that the blockade has helped to build resilience and provided a platform for growth for Qatar going forward.

“Continued investment and infrastructure spending to support construction projects related to the 2022 FIFA World Cup and National Vision 2030, which was launched in 2008 to guide the state’s economic, social, human and environmental development, were the key drivers of non-hydrocarbon growth, which has been on track to register 5 percent growth in 2018,” he said, adding that the manufacturing sector also contributed significantly as projects aimed to achieve greater self-sufficiency and food security

“THE EXPOSURE OF THE BANKS OPERATING IN QATAR, ESPECIALLY TO THE BLOCKADING COUNTRIES, IS LIMITED AND IT HAS FADED WITH THE CONTINUATION OF THE BLOCKADE.”

HE SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN SAOUD AL THANI GOVERNOR QATAR CENTRAL BANK

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started to take effect.

Though imports took a hit in the beginning when the blockade was imposed, they have since recovered to pre-boycott levels whereas critical exports including oil and gas remained unaffected.

Although some Arab states have since 2017 denied that Saudi Arabia was behind the boycott of Qatar, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman nevertheless praised Qatar's economy at the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh held in October 2018. “Qatar, despite the differences we have, has a great economy and they will be doing a lot in the next five years,” the Saudi leader said.

WOOING FOREIGN INVESTORS Qatar is aware that foreign direct investment (FDI) is vital for its economic growth and initiated steps to amend the existing FDI Act which is aimed at bringing foreign investment to the sectors such as industrial, agricultural, information technology, education, health and tourism sectors.

“We also see the Qatar Financial Centre and free zones as platforms and levers to support the incubation and evolution of this new law and new direct investment,” Al Khalifa says. “This will contribute to private sector development in Qatar.”

Qatar has allocated QR10.92 billion ($3 billion) to attract foreign companies to its free zones and an additional QR7.28 billion ($2 billion) to draw multinationals to its financial centre in order to become a hub for re-export to countries such as Iraq, Pakistan and Turkey.

SURPLUS BUDGET Speaking at the Euromoney Qatar Conference 2018, Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Governor HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud Al Thani said that the state budget achieved a surplus of QR7.1 billion in the first half of this year compared to a deficit of QR35.4 billion in 2017.

Noting that this was achieved despite the unjust siege imposed on Qatar, he stressed that the country had overcome the crisis and the negative effects of the unjust siege have been addressed.

The QCB Governor said that this was seen in

PROGRESS 2018-2019 ECONOMY

the country’s real GDP, which witnessed growth in the first half of 2018 estimated at 2.5 per cent compared to 1.6 percent in 2017. Nominal GDP for the same period also jumped by 14.6 percent, with inflation continuing at a low level of only 1 percent, which was positively reflected in improving internal and external balances.

The current account of the balance of payments witnessed during the same period a surplus of QR25.7 billion, or 7.6 percent of GDP, compared to a surplus of QR4.5 billion, or only 1.5 percent, during the same period of 2017.

The international reserves and foreign currency liquidity, which had dropped by 20 percent in the first few months after the siege, have recovered and are now back to normal, and amounted to $46.5 billion at the end of September, a level higher than it was before the imposition of the unjust siege when it was $45.7 billion at the end of May last year. The monetary policy adopted by the QCB under the unjust siege led to effective management of this crisis, which reflected positively on the banking and financial sector, the QCB Governor said. While the total assets of commercial banks operating in Qatar grew by 5 percent, customer deposits, in terms of pooled savings with commercial banks, increased to more than 2.5 percent during the first nine months of 2018. In terms of domestic employment, credit facilities extended by commercial banks to their customers increased by 1.8 percent until September 2018. The capital adequacy ratio of banks operating in Qatar increased to more than 15.5 percent at the end of September 2018.

In addition, the ratio of non-performing loans to total loans and credit facilities stood at 1.7 percent, reflecting the quality of the assets of the commercial banks operating in the country at the end of September 2018. “During the period of the unjust siege, QCB has increased the strength and efficiency of the financial sector in the country, and at the end of last year it launched the second strategic plan for the financial sector 2017-2022 in coordination between QCB, Qatar Stock Exchange and QFC Regulatory Authority,” he said.

FINTECH BEING LAUNCHED The QCB Governor further said that preparations

were underway to launch financial technology (Fintech) and a national financial inclusion strategy to develop human capital through training and building capabilities in line with the best international standards and practices so that Qatar becomes a leading global hub in the field of services, markets and financial activities to reach the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

The QCB Governor explained that Qatar has taken many initiatives and issued laws, legislation and resolutions to develop the business environment and encourage investment in order to promote economic growth and expand the role of the private sector in various activities.

The necessary legislation was passed on foreign ownership of real estate, establishment of companies and permanent residency, (which gives citizens of 80 countries around the world visa-free entry), in addition to the establishment of a free zone to promote intra-trade with various

“THE CURRENT ACCOUNT BALANCE IS PROJECTED TO REGISTER A SURPLUS DURING THE FORECAST PERIOD (20182020) AND OIL PRICES CONTINUE TO IMPROVE. HOWEVER, THE MAIN RISKS TO QATAR’S OVERALL ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE ARE SUDDEN CHANGES AND SHOCKS IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY AND THEREFORE IN WORLDWIDE OIL AND GAS MARKETS, ESPECIALLY THE RESULTANT PRICE DECLINE POTENTIALLY TRIGGERED BY GLOBAL TRADE ANXIETIES AND REGIONAL POLITICAL TENSIONS.”

HE DR SALEH ALNABIT

PRESIDENT PLANNING AND STATISTICS AUTHORITY STATE OF QATAR

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countries of the world. “The private sector is expected to play a key role in increasing growth rates in the coming years,” he said.

SURPLUS FISCAL BALANCE Qatar’s fiscal balance returned to a surplus in 2018, global ratings agency S&P said and expects the “high level of government assets” to remain a core rating strength.

“Qatar’s external balances are set to improve, despite the boycott, with the fiscal balance remaining strong over the 2018-2021,” the ratings agency said in its recent report.

Qatar's goods exports to the blockading nations were relatively limited as most of its gas receipts came from Asian customers, the report said.

Despite the trade boycott, the UAE accounts for 4 percent of Qatari exports, including gas exports through the Dolphin pipeline, which remained unaffected due to the blockade. Qatar has also found alternative sources of goods that previously arrived from blockading nations, although likely at higher prices, and now imports directly into its newly opened port.

“We expect the current account position will remain in a surplus of about 7.5 percent in 2018 (versus 3.8 percent in 2017), supported by higher hydrocarbon prices, with which most of Qatar's gas contracts are linked. Over the medium term, we expect the current account balance to remain in a surplus of around 5 percent, largely driven by our oil price assumptions,” the report said. Outflows of non-resident funding (non-resident deposits and inter-bank placements) from Qatar's banks reached about QR120.12 billion ($22 billion), which is around 13 percent of GDP, at the end of 2017 but liquidity injections of about QR145 billion ($40 billion), which is equivalent to 24 percent of GDP, by the QCB and other public sector entities more than compensated the outflows. “We estimate Qatar's gross external financing position will have risen to 173 percent of current account receipts in 2018, up from 157 percent in 2017. Over the same period, bank credit directly to the government has increased. We believe that the government has used the increase in external funding to finance its ongoing significant infrastructure programme,” the report said.

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IN BETTER SHAPE THAN BEFORE OVERCOMING THE HURDLES POSED BY THE ECONOMIC BOYCOTT BY SAUDI ARABIA AND THREE OTHER ARAB NATIONS, QATAR’S BANKING SECTOR CONTINUED ITS GROWTH IN 2018. THE BANKS NOT ONLY EARNED PROFITS BUT ALSO EXPANDED THEIR GLOBAL FOOTPRINT BY EXPLORING NEW MARKETS TO ATTRACT NEW CUSTOMERS DURING THE YEAR.

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he total assets of the banks excluding that of Qatar Development Bank (QDB) stood at QR1.38 trillion at the end of August 2018, registering a growth of nearly five percent year-on-year. The share of total credit was about 67 percent (QR948.19 billion) of total assets, while the share of investment was about 16.3 percent (QR177.2 billion), according to Qatar Central Bank (QCB).

On the liabilities side, resident deposits accounted for 47 percent of total liabilities while bank balances were around 18 percent. Coming to Islamic banks, their share accounted for 26 percent of the total assets of the ten local banks by the end of August 2018, which was almost their share at the end of 2017.

The domestic liquidity represented by broad money supply (M2) amounted to QR5.8 billion at the end of August 2018, an increase of four percent over the same period in 2017 while the growth of domestic liquidity was more than 21.3 percent in 2017.

Though the foreign deposits in Qatar’s

“THE EXPOSURE OF THE BANKS OPERATING IN QATAR, ESPECIALLY TO THE BLOCKADING COUNTRIES, IS LIMITED AND IT HAS FADED WITH THE CONTINUATION OF THE BLOCKADE.”

HE SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN SAOUD AL THANI GOVERNOR QATAR CENTRAL BANK

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commercial banks dropped by QR47.32 billion in the six months after the blockade, they have regained about QR32.76 billion ($9 billion) of that, according to the rating agency Fitch Ratings. The agency said that the blockade forced Qatar to diversify its revenue sources, ultimately making it more self-sufficient.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its report of Article IV consultations, expects a growth of 5.5 percent in local liquidity during 2018, ensuring the provision of adequate funding for the productive sector in line with national priorities.

In its September 2018 report entitled “Qatar Economic Insight”, the country’s largest lender Qatar National Bank said: “Qatar’s financial sector remains resilient and healthy with credit continuing to flow, liquidity ample and asset quality and profitability robust. Despite the economic blockade, deposit growth was a buoyant 13.2 percent in 2017 versus solid loan growth of 8.5 percent. With deposit growth outstripping loan growth, the system-wide loanto-deposit ratio fell back to around 110 percent and the liquidity environment improved.”

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PERFORMANCE OF QATARI BANKS (2017-2018) Name of the bank

Net profit

Total assets

(From Jan till Oct in 2017)

Net profits

Total assets

(From Jan till Oct in 2018)

Commercial Bank of Qatar

QR259 million

QR134 billion

QR1.260 billion

QR138.7 billion

Qatar Islamic Bank

QR1.775 billion

QR149 billion

-

-

Qatar National Bank

QR10.3 billion

QR792 billion

QR10.8 billion

QR853 billion

QR518.2 million

-

QR538.7 million

-

Doha Bank

QR1.05 billion

QR92.4 billion

QR1.57 billion

QR90.4 billion

Qatar International Islamic Bank

QR700 million

QR50.6 billion

QR735 million

QR48.9 billion

Masraf Al Rayan

QR1.562 billion

QR98.61 billion

QR1.63 billion

QR99.60 billion

International Bank of Qatar

QR432 million

-

QR487.5 million

QR30.6 billion

Ahli Bank

The report further said that timely intervention from the authorities supported the financial system’s adjustment. Robust public-sector deposit mobilisation (up 69.6 percent) more than made up for the withdrawal of non-resident deposits from the blockading economies, underscoring the financial system’s resilience.

GEARED TO FACE CHALLENGES In an interview with Qatar News Agency, QCB Governor HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud Al Thani, affirmed that the banking system in Qatar easily faced unfavourable circumstances because the banks operating in the country, both local and foreign, enjoyed high capitalisation that enabled them to face internal and external risks.

“The exposure of the banks operating in Qatar, especially to the blockading countries, is limited and it has faded with the continuation of the blockade,” he averred.

He noted that the improvement in the efficiency of the banking sector has helped enhance the ability of these banks to confront any shocks through the application of the latest international supervisory standards, with International Financial Reporting Standard No. 9 as an example.

The QCB governor pointed out that the stress tests carried out are based on the maximum assumptions of shocks to the banks whether through internal or external factors. The results of these tests showed the ability of local banks, especially banks with branches abroad, to

withstand any potential risks or shocks.

FINANCIAL LIQUIDITY Regarding the ability of local banks to provide liquidity and meet Qatar’s financial requirements, he said that the banking sector has been working on strengthening basic liquidity structures since

“MARKETS HAVE REACTED POSITIVELY TO QATAR’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS AND THE VISION OF ITS LEADERSHIP WITH THE QE INDEX POSTING ITS BIGGEST QUARTERLY JUMP IN FOUR YEARS, OUTPERFORMING ITS REGIONAL PEERS AND BECOMING THE SECONDBEST PERFORMER IN THE WORLD IN DOLLAR TERMS THIS YEAR.”

SHEIKH DR KHALID BIN THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI CHAIRMAN COMMERCIAL BANK

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June 2017. Improvements made to the structure of financing entitlements have strengthened the liquidity of the banking sector and its assets.

He pointed out that the analysis of pressure tests showed the high-quality ability in providing appropriate support when pressure occurs due to sharp withdrawals. “With stable oil prices in conjunction with the current account surplus, we expect that the liquidity of local and foreign currency will improve and this confirms the banking sector’s preparedness to meet the growing demand for loans, both public and private, in line with national priorities.”

TRANSFORMATION CONTINUES Commercial Bank Chairman Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor Al Thani said that Qatar continued to transform its economy for a more sustainable future by implementing a raft of reforms designed to strengthen the economy and increase selfsufficiency and promote growth.

“Markets have reacted positively to Qatar’s economic developments and the vision of its leadership with the QE Index posting its biggest quarterly jump in four years, outperforming its regional peers and becoming the second-best performer in the world in dollar terms this year,” he said after the announcement of the financial results for the first nine months of 2018.

Commercial Bank was pleased to continue to be a part of Qatar’s growth story by aligning itself with the nation's economic objectives

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and providing a stable and innovative financial institution.

Furthermore, Chairman and Managing Director of Masraf Al Rayan Dr Hussain Al Abdulla also stated that Masraf Al Rayan’s performance in the first nine months of 2018 was within expectations and beneficial to the Qatari economy. The results were backed by a rise in international oil and gas prices and a strong performance of exports, which also constitutes an additional surplus in the state’s budget during the time of successive disruptions.

Ahli Bank Chairman and Managing Director Sheikh Faisal bin Abdul Aziz bin Jassem Al Thani stated that there has been good momentum in the economic indicators. “The capital spending plan remains a key driver of economic activity and the recovery in oil prices supports the country’s fiscal position and lifts the private sector sentiment,” he said.

OVERSEAS EXPANSION Banks such as QNB and Doha Bank have gone ahead with their plans to expand their operations in various countries and markets that were untapped. Though there was an inevitable loss after the blockade, they have managed to open a QR400 million market in countries including Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Pakistan, Iran and other central Asian nations.

While QNB opened branches in Oman and Kuwait, Doha Bank has opened its third branch in India and plans to start operations in Nepal, Vietnam and Sri Lanka.

Also on the cards this year is the opportunity to open an office in Vietnam. India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. With growing opportunities between India and the Gulf region, more tie-ups and collaborations are coming up. This is going to offer immense opportunities for the bank,” Doha Bank Group CEO Dr R. Seetharaman said.

Doha Bank showcased Qatar’s immense investment potential in a series of global markets like New York, Frankfurt, London, Sydney, Singapore and Toronto durng the year and is keen on showcasing Qatar as the best investment destination in more markets going forward, he said.

“Qatar is going to do well in terms of economic performance and we are seeing a great momentum in terms of oil prices. We foresee a sustainable growth in 2018,” he also added.

The branch network expansion by QNB in Oman has taken strides towards its vision to become a leading bank in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia by 2020.

Furthmore, QNB Group is the first non-Kuwaiti financial institution to obtain approval from the regulatory authorities in Kuwait to open a second branch in the country's Avenues Mall. QNB Group also sees potential to expand and contribute to the development of the financial market in the country. The Kuwaiti economy is backed by tremendous oil wealth and financial reserves, as it has the world’s largest oil reserves per capita, enabling the government to embark on large investment projects to diversify the economy.

ISLAMIC BANKING The Islamic banking sector in Qatar had many developments during the year with the four full-

“THE CAPITAL SPENDING PLAN REMAINS A KEY DRIVER OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY AND THE RECOVERY IN OIL PRICES SUPPORTS THE COUNTRY’S FISCAL POSITION AND LIFTS THE PRIVATE SECTOR SENTIMENT.”

SHEIKH FAISAL BIN ABDUL AZIZ BIN JASSEM AL THANI CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR AHLIBANK

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fledged Islamic Bank’s focus on Qatar's domestic market have helped them to weather the crisis, according to data from the Malaysia-based Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB). The Board published data on Qatar for the first time as part of its quarterly reporting on the industry.

Qatar Islamic Bank, Masraf Al Rayan, Qatar International Islamic Bank and Barwa Bank held a combined QR358.6 billion ($96 billion) in assets in the first quarter of this year, an 8.8 percent increase from a year earlier. According to the data, the banks reported a combined QR3.9 billion in revenues in the first quarter, an 18.6 percent increase, and non-performing finance expanded to QR2.9 billion from QR1.7 billion a year ago. Capital adequacy and profitability measures were mostly unchanged but foreign exchange financing decreased by seven percent.

Qatar has also disclosed plans to work with Malaysia and Turkey to serve the QR7.28 trillion ($2 trillion) global Islamic finance market from hubs in these countries, using common platforms and technology to negate the impact of the economic blockade and diversify its economy away from oil and gas.

MERGER OF TWO BANKS Another major development occured in August 2018 with the merge, of International Bank of Qatar (IBQ) with Barwa Bank that makes them a single entity. These banks have signed a final agreement regarding the merger to create a leading Sharia-compliant financial institution with a “solid financial position and robust liquidity” to support Qatar’s economic growth and finance development initiatives in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

The merger would create the third-largest Islamic bank in Qatar and the sixth-largest Qatari bank with a five percent market share of domestic loans. Once completed, the new entity will be Barwa Bank with assets totaling around QR80 billion post-consolidation and a shareholder equity base of over QR12 billion, supporting the economic development of Qatar by creating a strategic partner for the government and the public sector while assisting the growth of the private sector.

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QATAR DRAWS UP AMBITIOUS PLANS DAYS AFTER QUITTING THE ORGANISATION OF THE PETROLEUM EXPORTING COUNTRIES (OPEC) ON THE PLEA TO FOCUS ITS EFFORTS ON PLANS TO DEVELOP AND INCREASE ITS NATURAL GAS PRODUCTION, QATAR HAS ANNOUNCED ITS INTENTION TO INVEST BILLIONS OF DOLLARS AROUND THE WORLD INCLUDING IN THE US, MEXICO AND MANY COUNTRIES IN AFRICA.

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he newly appointed Minister for Energy Affairs, HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, said that the state-owned Qatar Petroleum (QP) was planning to add a fourth liquefaction train by tapping the gas reserves in the southern part of the North Field, which it shares with Iran, and looking for new foreign partners to increase its LNG production from the existing 77 MT per annum to 110 MT per annum by 2024.

With the addition of the fourth train, the project will add about 32 MT of LNG annually, which is 43 percent above the current capacity, 4,000 tons per day of ethane, 260,000 barrels per day of condensate, and 11,000 tons per day of LPG and approximately 20 tons per day of pure helium.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS According to a Reuters report, Qatar will invest QR42.2 billion ($11.6 billion) in Germany on various projects including construction of an LNG terminal over a period of five years, the Amir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani announced at an investment conference there.

“The new investment is a sign of Qatar’s trust

in the strength of the German economy and the importance of investing in it,” he said.

“WE THINK THAT GROWTH IN LNG IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR US IN ADDITION TO OUR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH WHERE WE HAVE HUGE INVESTMENTS THAT WE'RE GOING TO BE MAKING IN MANY COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD.”

HE ENG SAAD SHERIDA AL KAABI MINISTER FOR ENERGY AFFAIRS

26

Qatar is also planning to invest QR72.8 billion ($20 billion) in the US, holding discussions with Italy’s energy giant Ente Nazionale Idrocarburi (National Hydrocarbons Authority)—‘Eni’—to develop three new oil fields in Mexico. A final decision on the investment in the Golden Pass LNG project in Sabine Pass near Port Arthur on the upper Texas coast will be taken shortly.

Qatar Petroleum and Eni will produce about 90,000 barrels of oil a day from the Amoca, Mizton and Tecoalli fields, which have two billion barrels of oil, in the Gulf of Mexico by December 2021, Al Kaabi told media along with Eni Chief Executive Officer Claudio Descalzi. QP will take a share of 35 percent in these three fields which are set to begin producing by mid-2019.

The companies are already working together on a separate offshore block in Mexico and Eni got approval for the developments and is waiting for the final nod from the Mexican authorities.

In Argentina, QP has already concluded an agreement with ExxonMobil to become an equity holder in the Vaca Muerta formation in Neuquén Basin, while in Oman, QP and Eni are expected to acquire a 30 percent share in the contractor’s

PROGRESS 2018-2019 ECONOMY

interest under the exploration and production sharing located off the coast of Oman. QP has also concluded an agreement to acquire a 25 percent participating interest in the exploration block off the coast of South Africa. The Mexican government has already announced setting up an oil refinery costing around QR29.12 billion ($8 billion) and has drawn up plans to modernise six other plants to reduce its dependence on oil imports by 2021.

Soon after his election as president, Andres Lopez Obrador said: “The objective is that we stop buying foreign gasoline by the half-way point of my six-year term. We are going to immediately revive our oil activity, exploration and the drilling of wells so we have crude oil,” he said.

REGAINING TOP POSITION Qatar’s decision to focus on increasing its LNG production capacity is quite understandable since Australia recently but briefly overtook Qatar as the top LNG exporter, and even the US and Russia are competing to become the largest exporters of LNG which is considered a clean and eco-friendly fuel.

According to research and consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie, the world's biggest buyers of liquefied natural gas will quadruple their uncontracted demand for LNG and more buyers will soon be on the hunt for additional LNG. By 2030, the seven major LNG buyers are expected to gobble up 80 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas over and above their existing contracts. Total demand from those buyers, including purchasing LNG on contract and off contract, will grow to 180 MT, up from 150 million metric tons. The seven LNG buyers include China National Offshore Oil Corp, PetroChina, Sinopec, Tokyo Gas, Jera Co and CPC Corp.

“As China pushes on toward a lower-emission economy, its demand for gas and LNG has grown significantly and we expect the trend to continue in the longer term,” said Nicholas Browne, Wood Mackenzie research director, in a statement.

NEW AND ONGOING PROJECTS According to QNA, QP signed an agreement with Shell to develop LNG marine fuelling or bunkering infrastructure at strategic shipping locations across the globe. QP also announced fuel-oil

bunkering solutions for all vessels calling on Qatari ports, which is a first and important step towards self-reliance for fuel-oil bunkering solutions for all vessels since Qatari and non-Qatari-vessels heading to Qatar were using Port of Fujairah.

The merger of Qatargas and RasGas to create a world-class operator of scale, service and reliability that will create significant opportunities came into effect from 1 January 2018 and Qatar Vinyl Company (QVC) has also been merged into Qapco to enhance competitiveness, improve financial performance and provide flexibility for the two companies.

Furthermore, QP has also launched a forum for offshore field operators. This launch aims to provide a platform for them to work together on continuous improvements in offshore operations, which made around QR55 million ($15 million) a year. Aside from this, QP is also reviewing developing compressed natural gas (CNG) projects as an alternative fuel for the domestic transport sector, and pledged to implement a major project to use CNG as an alternative fuel by 2022.Among QP’s successes are the construction of storage and distribution facilities for petroleum products to be consumed domestically and the successful operation of the Laffan Refinery 2.

This is clearly a significant reflection of Qatar’s strategic expansion in the production and diversification of energy sources, especially as it doubles production capacity by refining an additional 146,000 barrels of condensates per day

27

from North Field production.

In addition, drilling and maintenance of 148 oil and gas wells in the land and sea fields were carried out which eventually increased the production capacity of QP fields, as well as the project for supplying Halul Island with 100 kmlong power cables through Ras Laffan to provide 100 MW of electricity for the island and its facilities, and the National Security Shield (NSS) project for offshore facilities.

MORE INVESTMENTS At the 11th Arab Energy Conference held in Morocco, the Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (Apicorp) released the MENA Energy Industry Outlook which forecast that Qatar was poised for higher investments in gas development after the lifting of the North Field moratorium in 2017.

“The majority of Qatar’s investments have come to fruition, and with the lifting of the moratorium recently, we expect higher investments in gas development as the country plans to double the size of its planned expansion, increasing LNG capacity to 100MT per year by the end of the outlook or shortly after,” the report said.

Qatar is looking at investing substantially to develop its oil and gas sectors, particularly redeveloping the QP-operated Bul Hanine oil field, for which plans were announced in May 2014 to increase the production to 90,000 barrels per day by 2020 at a cost of QR40 billion ($11 billion).

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QIA: GOING STRONG A NEW CHIEF AND SPURT IN INVESTMENTS IN VARIOUS SECTORS SUCH AS TECHNOLOGY, HOSPITALITY IN THE US, GERMANY, UK, RUSSIA, MALAYSIA AND OTHER COUNTRIES WERE AMONG THE PROMINENT DEVELOPMENTS THAT TOOK PLACE IN THE STATE-OWNED SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND – QATAR INVESTMENT AUTHORITY (QIA) – IN 2018.

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ccording to a Royal Decree published by the state-run Qatar News Agency in September 2018, the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of QIA, Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, replaced HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Thani, who joined the government as a Minister of State before serving QIA for about four years. In a related development, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani has been named Chairman of QIA. QIA has around $320 billion (QR1.165 trillion) in assets and is ranked 10th among the top sovereign wealth funds in the world (see graph) according to latest reports.

Since its inception in 2006, it has built a major global portfolio spanning multiple asset classes and regions across the world which includes London’s famous departmental store Harrods, The Shard building, commodities giant Glencore, Barclays, and trophy assets in the UK, US and other countries. QIA allocates assets dynamically and flexibly, and has established an excellent track record both for identifying long-term opportunities and for making bold, intelligent investments. Quoting sources who worked with the new CEO in the past, a Bloomberg report said that Al Mahmoud has been a dealmaker who is

likely to push QIA to pursue a more aggressive investment strategy. Al Mahmoud, who has led Qatar Museums since 2014, previously worked

“WE SEE MANY POSSIBILITIES FOR INVESTMENT IN GERMANY. WE ARE DISCUSSING SOME PROJECTS. WE HAVE ALSO IMPLEMENTED PART OF OUR INVESTMENT PROMISES AND ARE PUMPING CAPITAL INTO SOME DEALS.”

HE SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN ABDULRAHMAN AL THANI QIA CHAIRMAN AND DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS STATE OF QATAR

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as Head of Risk Management with QIA, served as director of investment affairs for a former prime minister of Qatar, and was also CEO of Qatar Development Bank. QIA has concluded more than 60 deals since 2015 during the tenure of the outgoing CEO and most of these transactions were in Europe and North America. The fund has been expanding its global reach with a plan to invest $45 billion (QR163.8 billion) in the US by 2020. Last year, it disclosed plans to open an office in San Francisco to focus on the technology industry. Among its most recent deals was the purchase of New York's 111-year-old Plaza Hotel in July, the Bloomberg report said. Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a conference held in Doha, Al Mahmoud said: “We are talking about $45 billion for the US market. We are on track for this over the next two years. Our objective is to balance our portfolio, currently we have a little bit of concentration in Europe and having this allocation toward the US market is to balance the portfolio.”

According to him, QIA was looking at fundamental sectors such as real estate, technology or US exchanges. In one such deal in December 2017. QIA and hedge fund Elliott Management Corporation took Gigamon Inc, the U.S. networking software company, for $1.6 billion (QR5.824 billion). “We

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have already accelerated and we have done several investments in technology and we will keep the momentum until we increase our share of the pie,” he said.

ACQUISITIONS AND INVESTMENTS One of the major developments has been the acquisition of Russia’s Rosneft Oil Company by QIA, which has acquired a 18.93% stake in the firm.

The Consortium controlled by QIA and Glencore announced in 2016 the purchase of 19.5% of Rosneft in a privatisation deal. In early May 2018, it was announced that the Consortium would be dissolved, with QIA having 18.93% of Rosneft, and Glencore holding 0.57%. QIA is reportedly set to pay $4.23 billion (QR15.40 billion) and with this, QIA will be the third-largest shareholder in Rosneft after the Russian government and the UK firm BP. Another major deal has been the acquisition of Grosvenor House Hotel in London after the real estate investment firm Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. agreed to sell the hotel for an undisclosed price to QIA via its Katara Hospitality unit, a Reuters report said. The acquisition brings Katara Hospitality’s portfolio of properties in operation or under development to 40.

QIA already owns London’s Savoy and Connaught hotels, and acquired The Plaza Hotel in New York City for around $600 million (QR2.18 billion) in July 2018, reports said. QIA became the largest investor in Credit Suisse, a global financial services company headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, by increasing its stake to 5.21%.

Plans are underway to develop Indonesia’s tourism sector after Qatar and Indonesia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). QIA will invest $500 million (QRQR1.82 billion) to carry out a number of tourism projects in 10 sites chosen by the Indonesian government.

MORE IN GERMANY Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said that Qatar would like to invest an additional 10 billion euros (QR40.14 billion) in Germany over the next five years, noting that it will become the largest Arab investor in Germany with a total investment of 35 billion euros (QR144.59

LARGEST SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUNDS WORLDWIDE (AS OF NOVEMBER 2018) BY ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT Government Pension Fund (Norway)

$1058.05 billion

China Investment Corporation (China)

$941.4 billion

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (UAE)

$683 billion

Kuwait Investment Authority (Kuwait)

$592 billion

HK Monetary Authority Investment Portfolio (China)

$522.6 billion

Sama Foreign Holdings (Saudi Arabia)

$515.6 billion

Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (Singapore)

$390 billion

Temasek Holdings (Singapore)

$375 billion

Public Investment Fund (Saudi Arabia)

$360 billion

Qatar Investment Authority (Qatar)

$320 billion

National Social Security Fund (China)

$295 billion

Investment Corporation of Dubai (UAE)

$233.8 billion

Mubadala Investment Company (UAE)

$226 billion

Korea Investment Corporation (Korea)

$134.1 billion (Source: Statista)

billion). He said that Germany has been a country with a stable economy. “We see many possibilities for investment in Germany. We are discussing

“WE ARE TALKING ABOUT $45 BILLION FOR THE US MARKET. WE ARE ON TRACK FOR THIS OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS. OUR OBJECTIVE IS TO BALANCE OUR PORTFOLIO...CURRENTLY WE HAVE A LITTLE BIT OF CONCENTRATION IN EUROPE AND HAVING THIS ALLOCATION TOWARD THE US MARKET IS TO BALANCE THE PORTFOLIO.”

MANSOOR BIN EBRAHIM AL MAHMOUD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER QATAR INVESTMENT AUTHORITY

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some projects. We have also implemented part of our investment promises and are pumping capital into some deals.” However, he declined to disclose more details. “It is still not possible to speak openly about them now. But we still see Deutsche Bank as a good investment opportunity, and that also applies to investments in other companies,” he said.

On the satisfaction of Qatar for its investments in Germany, he said that QIA has a long-term investment strategy and when they invested in any place, they were not looking for a quick profit.

He stressed Qatar's desire to become a strategic investor and to build real partnerships, pointing out that economic fluctuations do not directly affect QIA's investment decisions.

Whether developments such as Volkswagen's diesel crisis, Deutsche Bank's decline, and the bankruptcy of Solar World are of concern to Qatar, he said: “As I mentioned earlier, all these are fluctuations, but Volkswagen, Deutsche Bank and other companies are all good institutions. There is no doubt that occasional problems will arise, but partnership means that we are working together in times of prosperity and in times of hardship.”

In Kuala Lumpur, QIA is set to take part in Malton Bhd Pavilion Bukit Jalil retail mall after it received the go-ahead from the investment committee.

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UNHINDERED GROWTH THE ECONOMIC BOYCOTT BY SAUDI ARABIA AND ITS ALLIES FOR THE LAST YEAR AND A HALF NOTWITHSTANDING, THE QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE (QSE) CONTINUED ITS MARCH FAR AHEAD OF ITS REGIONAL ADVERSARIES, REGISTERING THE HIGHEST GROWTH IN 2018.

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esides the two exchange-traded funds (ETFs), two companies — Investment Holding Group (IHG), which is a family-owned Qatari conglomerate, and Qatar Aluminium Manufacturing Company (QAMCO), one of the subsidiaries of Qatar Petroleum — were listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange, thus taking the total number of listed firms to 46.

As of 31 December 2018, the QSE’s market capitalisation rose by 24.72 percent and stood at QR588.71 billion compared with QR472.02 billion at the end of the previous year.

The bourse has emerged as the leader among the GCC markets, letting the world know that the country’s economy has been strong with solid macroeconomic fundamentals. The QSE’s benchmark index gained 15.29 points, or 0.15 percent, as the bourse closed trading at 10,299.01 points on the last trading day of 2018.

Trading value during this year increased by 3.4 percent while the trading volume decreased by 7.28 percent to reach 2,285,922,661 shares as against 2,465,478,844 shares, while the number of transactions rose by 25 percent to reach 1,042,985

compared with 834,394 transactions in the corresponding period in the previous year.

“THE LISTING OF QAMCO SHARES WILL PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CITIZENS TO BENEFIT FROM THE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND DIVERSITY OFFERED BY THE QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE.”

HE ENG SAAD BIN SHERIDA AL KAABI MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENERGY AFFAIRS AND PRESIDENT AND CEO OF QATAR PETROLEUM

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The banks and financial services sector led trading value during 2018, accounting for 45.08 percent, followed by the industrials sector (20.65 percent). The real estate sector ranked third (9.5 percent), followed by the consumer goods and services sector (8.47 percent).

With regard to changes in share prices, 19 of the 46 listed companies ended higher during the year while 27 fell. The Qatar National Bank led trading value during this year, accounting for 21.86 percent, followed by Industries Qatar (7.16 percent) and Masraf Al Rayan ranked third with 5.75 percent.

ENCOURAGING FOREIGN INVESTORS Even foreign investors, particularly from the US and Europe, were keen to park their funds in the QSE-enlisted companies as overseas institutional investors were net buyers of about QR8.37 billion ($2.3 billion) of shares traded on Doha’s bourse this year, more than triple the foreign flows into Riyadh, according to media reports.

Inflows have picked up in Qatar after several large-cap companies announced that they were easing limits on foreign ownership, prompting an

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adjustment of their weighting in benchmarks used by emerging-market fund managers, according to a Bloomberg report.

In Saudi Arabia, overseas investors were net buyers of as much as QR10.92 billion ($3 billion) at a peak in June 2018, but that figure fell to around QR2.55 billion ($700 million) after a selloff following the murder of newspaper columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October, the report said.

The consumer goods, telecom, industrials and transport sectors outperformed the market and the state-owned Qatar Petroleum (QP) and its listed subsidiaries increased the foreign ownership limits (FOLs) up to 49 percent to lure foreign investors.

Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Petroleum HE Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, who was present during the listing of QAMCO, said that the investment opportunity has given Qataris the chance to participate in the success of one of the region’s largest and most competitive aluminium producers, and one of Qatar’s most successful projects in the manufacturing sector.

On the other hand, Al Mansoori pointed out that the launch of the first ETF on the Qatar Exchange was aimed at following up the investment results of the prices on the Qatar Exchange Index by investing in the basic components based on individual weights in the index, which benefit the investor. The other index, Al Rayan Qatar ETF (QATR), aims to track the investment results of the QSE’s Al Rayan Islamic Price Index. “The QSE, in its quest to establish a market for emerging SMEs, is working to create an incubator to achieve sustainability and growth of family businesses and the QSE is ready to provide all the facilities available to family businesses,” he explained.

ESG PLATFORM LAUNCHED In a notable development, the QSE has launched its online Sustainability and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) platform and is among the first stock exchanges in the world to encourage transparency and disclosure by promoting the

PERCENTAGE OF SHARES TRADING BY INVESTOR TYPE FOR THE YEAR IN2018

Percentage To Total Value Investors

Non-Qatari's Transactions

Qatari's Transactions

9.336%

30.172%

Buy

9.667%

36.667%

Sell

44.381%

16.111%

Buy

32.061%

21.604%

digitalisation of ESG data. The online ESG platform allows all listed companies to log in, upload their sustainability reports and submit their sustainability data on the QSE’s 34 ESG indicators.

Through this, investors can have real-time access

“THE QSE, IN ITS QUEST TO ESTABLISH A MARKET FOR EMERGING SMES, IS WORKING TO CREATE AN INCUBATOR TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABILITY AND GROWTH OF FAMILY BUSINESSES AND THE QSE IS READY TO PROVIDE ALL THE FACILITIES AVAILABLE TO FAMILY BUSINESSES.”

RASHID BIN ALI AL MANSOORI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE

31

Individuals

Institutions Sell

to publicly reported essential sustainability data from a single source.

The initiative, which comes with the support of the Qatar Financial Markets Authority, is in line with the sustainability pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030. It is also part of the exchange’s efforts to uphold its voluntary commitment to the Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) initiative.

FRAMEWORK FOR IR Al Mansoori said that, effective from 1 October 2019, Qatar will introduce a mandatory “rulesbased” framework for Investor Relations (IR), which reflects best practice and should in any case be standard for listed companies in the current regulatory capital markets environment.

“For some, this will represent only business as usual but for others you will undoubtedly need to pay more attention to your IR function and its resourcing,” Al Mansoori said at a meeting.

“QSE, Qatar Financial Markets Authority and the listed companies have been working together over many years to ensure disclosure and transparency is developed through an increasing focus on IR, especially after the inclusion of Qatar in the MSCI, S&P and FTSE Emerging Markets indices, which has served to increase attention in Qatar’s stock market and all its listed companies,” he said.

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INSURING FOR THE FUTURE A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT THAT TOOK PLACE IN THE INSURANCE SECTOR IN 2018 WAS ESTABLISHMENT OF A FUND FOR THE WELFARE OF WORKERS IN THE COUNTRY.

B

esides most of the insurance companies survived the onslaught launched against Qatar by some neighbouring countries, in the form of a trade and economic blockade, and earned profits during the year.

His Highness, The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, issued Law No. 17 of 2018 to set up the fund under the name “Workers' Support and Insurance Fund” with a legal entity. The fund aims to support, ensure and provide care for workers, guarantee their rights and provide a healthy and safe working environment for them.

The purpose of the new fund is to pay the workers' benefits, which are settled by the labour dispute settlement committees, in order to avoid actions that may take time and affect workers' ability to fulfill their obligations towards their families or third parties. The fund also ensures the rapid payment of financial benefits at the end of the service and the facilitation of the worker's return to their country. The fund will refer to the employer by legal means to recover the amounts owed to the employee.

The establishment of this fund comes within the framework of Qatar's keenness to protect those

rights of workers and ensure their access to their financial dues, and to support the wage protection system established to control the wages of workers

“THIS TRANSFORMATION PROCESS UNFOLDS AS WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH CHALLENGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL SUCH AS THE GEOPOLITICAL SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND THE VAGARIES OF GLOBAL RE/INSURANCE LOSS AND PRICING CYCLES. THEREFORE, QIC GROUP IS REDOUBLING ITS EFFORTS TO EXCEL IN AN AREA WHICH COUNTS AMONG OUR HISTORICAL STRENGTHS: COST-EFFICIENCY.

KHALIFA ABDULLA TURKI AL SUBAEY GROUP PRESIDENT & CEO QATAR INSURANCE GROUP

32

subject to the labour law and to supplement the package of legislation and complementary laws of this system.

A WELCOME STEP Deputy Director of Global Issues at Amnesty International Steve Cockburn said that the fund could bring hope to hundreds of migrant workers who have been ripped off by abusive companies while working in Qatar.

The then Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi (presently minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs) said that the most important function of the Workers' Support and Insurance Fund has been to pay the dues of any worker who is stranded because the employer cannot pay the sum due to bankruptcy. HE Dr Al Nuaimi explained that the fund was complementary to the bundle of legislation issued by Qatar to protect the rights of workers.

The new law also won accolades globally including from agencies such as the International Labour Organisation, International Trade Union Confederation and other trade unions and human

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rights organisations.

HIGH EXPECTATIONS According to a report from Alpen Capital, Qatar's insurance industry is expected to grow by more than nine percent to reach QR16.74 billion ($4.6 billion) by 2021 in view of the rising population which is expected to drive the demand for health, motor, property and other retail cover; while strategic economic diversification plans help enhance the base of assets available for underwriting.

The country has been witnessing a population exodus, which grew at a fast pace of 8.6 percent between 2011 and 2016 and is slated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.5 percent until 2021.

Even the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected Qatar's gross domestic product per capita to increase at a CAGR of 5.4 per capita between 2016 and 2021 and the efforts to diversify revenue and a gradual recovery in oil prices were likely to result in an increase in disposable income of one of the world’s wealthiest countries adding to the demand for general insurance products.

INSURANCE FIRMS FARE WELL The financial performance of the major companies in the first nine months of 2018 revealed that these firms have earned profits despite having no businesses in the boycotting countries as the MENA markets continued to produce stable premiums with underwriting profitability, weathering geopolitical headwinds in the region.

Qatar Insurance Group, the leading insurer in Qatar and the Middle East North African (MENA) region, reported a net profit of QR473.2 million ($130 million) for the first nine months of 2018.

The group’s international carriers, namely Qatar Re, Antares and QIC Europe Limited (QEL), posted a GWP growth of 11 percent. QIC Group ’s domestic and MENA operations growth remained stable, while the company’s Life and Medical insurance subsidiary, QLM, headquartered in Doha, and OQIC, the group’s listed subsidiary in Oman, continued to expand. Disclosing its financial statements for the period between 1 January 2018 and 30 September 2018, the Qatar Islamic

Insurance Company (QIIC) said that the net profits stood at QR57.48 billion compared with QR50.15 billion for the same period during the previous year. The earnings per share (EPS) amounted to QR 3.83 as against QR3.34 during the same period.

Similarly, Doha Insurance recorded a net profit of QR34.9 million in H1 2018 compared with QR 33.9 million for the same period in the previous year. The EPS amounted to QR0.70 during H1 2018 as against QR0.68 for the same period in the previous year.

Al Khaleej Takaful Insurance Company's financial statements for the first nine months showed that the company has earned a net profit is QR9.05 million compared with QR16.63 million for the same period in the previous year. The EPS amounted to QR0.35 for the period ended 30 September 2018 compared with QR0.65 for the same period in the previous year.

EXPANSION AND ACQUISITION Oman Qatar Insurance Company (OQIC), a subsidiary of Qatar Insurance Group, has opened its new corporate office in Oman. This is a strategic response to the increasing growth

33

witnessed in the insurance sector of Oman.

OQIC Chairman Khalaf Ahmed Al Mannai, who inaugurated the new office in the presence of several dignitaries including HE Sheikh Khalid bin Omar Al Marhoon, Minister of Civil Services, said that the company’s vision aligns with its parent Qatar Insurance Group, which is to continue its drive for achieving further growth and operational excellence through innovation, diversification and responsible leadership.

Qatar Life and Medical Insurance Company (QLM), which is entirely owned by Qatar Insurance Company (QIC), expanded its network of medical service providers in Russia. The network includes about 700 service providers within the Russian state for QLM customers to enjoy direct services in this network, which includes the largest hospitals.

The QIC also has acquired Gibraltar-based insurer Markerstudy Group through its reinsurance arm Qatar Re, subject to regulatory approvals. The acquisition of Markerstudy, which underwrites more than five percent of the UK motor insurance market, generating annual premiums of about £750 million, significantly expands the firm’s UK profile in line with its ambitious expansion plans.

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ISLAMIC FINANCE KEY FOR QATAR THE ISLAMIC FINANCE INDUSTRY HAS EMERGED AS ONE OF THE KEY SECTORS FOR THE SUSTAINED DEVELOPMENT OF QATAR’S FINANCIAL SYSTEM AND HAS EXHIBITED RESILIENCE EVEN AS OIL PRICES TUMBLED IN THE LAST FEW YEARS.

Q

atar’s economic growth has been stupendous over the last decade with real GDP growth averaging 11% between 2006 and 2017 and, keeping in mind the country’s vast foreign reserves, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects Qatar’s economic growth to remain stable at 2.7% in the coming five years. The IMF’s predictions are based on the ongoing economic diversification plans and infrastructure development in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 which are expected to create more jobs and lure investors to invest in the non-hydrocarbon sector.

In fact, the growth of Qatar’s Islamic financial assets, which stood at QR433.16 billion ($119 billion) in 2017, has been higher than those of conventional assets and grew at a CAGR of 11% over the last five years and 13% in 2017.

According to a recent report by Bait Al-Mashura Finance Consultations, the country's Islamic banking sector achieved a growth of 9.1% in 2017 compared with the previous year. Despite the fact that withdrawals were made from non-resident deposits, total deposits in the sector achieved a

“THE SHARE OF ISLAMIC BANKS OPERATING IN QATAR AMOUNTED TO ABOUT 26% OF THE TOTAL ASSETS OF THE TEN LOCAL BANKS BY THE END OF AUGUST 2018, WHICH WAS ALMOST ITS SHARE AT THE END OF 2017.”

HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN SAOUD AL THANI GOVERNOR QATAR CENTRAL BANK

34

growth rate of 13.2% supported by governmental deposits, the report said.

Additionally, financial resources granted by Islamic banks have achieved a growth rate of 7.6% mainly in the private and retail sectors within the domain of consumer and real estate sectors through financing concentrated on Murabaha, Musawama and other modes.

Islamic financial assets constitute 22% of Qatar’s financial system’s assets and 6% of global Islamic banking assets. These assets are likely to grow further and increase their share as Qatar has the potential to sustain the industry’s double-digit growth in the coming years. One of the major factors contributing to the success of the Islamic financial industry in Qatar has been its four Islamic banks which have been driving the growth of the industry in the last few years. These banks hold the largest share of Islamic financial assets, worth QR353.08 billion ($97 billion) in 2017. These banks have been looking at mergers to expand their operations in other countries.

In order to ensure proper growth and Sharia compliance by the industry, the government has set up a regulatory framework and segregated the

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Islamic and conventional banking and insurance sector. Presently, Takaful and non-bank financial institutions together account for a meagre 1.3% of total Islamic finance assets in 2017.

MUTED GROWTH According to reports, Qatar’s non-banking financial institutions have shown muted growth, limited in both size and number. Assets of the nonbank financial sector were valued at QR3.64 billion ($1 billion). Caps imposed on consumer loans in Qatar have led non-bank finance companies to shift their focus to growth opportunities in SME lending, building on their competitive advantage in small-ticket financing.

Though the Islamic segment in asset management is larger than the conventional segment as Shariah-compliant investment funds make up more than half the asset management sector in Qatar with QR815.36 million ($224 million) in assets under management, the sector remains relatively undeveloped compared to other Islamic finance sectors and is currently limited to mutual funds. With over QR600 billion ($165 billion) in investable domestic assets, the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) is in a position to differentiate its investment offerings from other regional financial hubs.

HIGH PENETRATION The QFC’s “Qatar Islamic Finance Report 2018” said the increase in Islamic banking growth translated to an increase in Islamic banking penetration reaching 43% of real GDP in 2017, up from 4% the previous year.

The report noted that the asset management industry has a QR127.4 billion ($35 billion) opportunity in Qatar. “Domestic private wealth is estimated at QR127.4 billion with 290 ultra-high -net-worth individuals with more than QR109.2 million ($30 million) in investable assets. These individuals are being targeted by the QFCRA through special licences granted for foundations and investment clubs, in the former case giving legal.” the report said.

The document, launched on the sidelines of the annual meetings of the Boards of Governors of the IMF and the World Bank Group in Indonesia,

said Sukuk represented 18% of Qatar’s total Islamic finance assets in 2017, with total outstanding issuances amounting to QR76.44 billion ($21 billion).

The government has been the backbone of the Sukuk market in Qatar, representing 73% of issuances between 2013 and the first half of 2018, by value. The cumulative value of sovereign sukuk issuances during this period reached QR50.96 billion ($14 billion).

LOW COST-TO-INCOME RATIO According to the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) report, Qatari Islamic banks have consistently enjoyed the lowest cost-to-income ratios throughout 2017-2018.

With consistent record-low non-performing financing (NPF) rates, asset returns above the Islamic banking industry average, and set-aside provisions covering over 80% of NPF, Qatari Islamic banks' cost-to-income ratio has ranged between 22% and 24% during the period.

The IFSB report said despite two years of assets’ growth stagnation, the global IFSI – covering Islamic banking, the Islamic capital market and the Islamic insurance (takaful) sector – had surpassed the milestone $2 trillion mark in 2017, marking an 8.3% growth in assets in dollar terms. Global Islamic banking has “sustained its resilience,” IFSB noted and said that most of its stability indicators are in comfortable compliance with the minimum international regulatory requirements.

MERGER OF TWO BANKS Qatar Central Bank Governor HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud Al Thani said that the merger procedures of Masraf Al Rayan, Barwa Bank and International Bank of Qatar, started under the supervision of QCB, and then there were some developments that resulted in a bilateral agreement between

35

International Bank of Qatar and Barwa Bank to merge, and the withdrawal of Masraf Al Rayan from the process.

The merging procedures between the two banks are currently being completed, especially as the two banks are not yet listed on the stock exchange, which facilitates the procedures and speeds up the process. The total assets in Qatar’s banking sector, excluding Qatar Development Bank, stood at QR1.38 trillion at the end of August 2018, registering a growth of nearly 5% year-onyear. The share of Islamic banks operating in Qatar amounted to about 26% of the total assets of the ten local banks by the end of August 2018, which was almost its share at the end of 2017, a QNA report quoting him, said.

FUTURE PLANS With the global Islamic finance industry assets growing to QR8.736 trillion ($2.4 trillion) in 2017, Qatar is eyeing to capture a major share by joining hands with Malaysia and Turkey to serve the global Islamic finance market from the hubs in these three countries using common platforms and technology. The move is also aimed at overcoming the blockade imposed by some neighbouring Arab states and also to further diversify its economy away from oil and gas.

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NEIGHBOURS’ ENVY, OWNERS’ PRIDE CONTINUING ITS ONWARD MARCH ON THE PATH OF SUCCESS, QATAR FINANCIAL CENTRE (QFC) AUTHORITY, ONE OF THE WORLD’S LEADING AND FASTEST-GROWING ONSHORE BUSINESS AND FINANCIAL CENTRES, REGISTERED 532 NEW FIRMS DURING THE FIRST SIX MONTHS IN 2018, AN INCREASE OF 69 PERCENT COMPARED WITH THE CORRESPONDING PERIOD IN THE PREVIOUS YEAR.

I

n fact, the QFC had registered 507 firms till 31 March 2018, the half–way mark in the number of firms it aims to register by 2022. Of those 507 firms, 46 percent are local firms from Qatar, 24 percent from Europe, 11 percent each from North America and MENA (excluding Qatar) and eighth percent from the Asia-Pacific region. The QFC has experienced 322 percent growth in the number of firms joining its platform since the first quarter of 2010. In addition, since June 2017 when the economic and trade boycott was imposed by Saudi Arabia and its allies, several international firms have evinced keen interest to open their offices in the country. As per the QFC 2022 roadmap, which was announced last year, the Centre aimed to register 1,000 licensed firms, create 10,000 jobs within the QFC ecosystem, establish Msheireb Downtown Doha as Qatar's pre-eminent financial and commercial destination and the first–of–its kind inclusive financial city in the region, triple the licensed firms' assets under management and increase QFC firms' participation on QSE with the goal of reaching five percent of QSE market capitalisation.

“THE QFC IS A GATEWAY FOR FDI AND INNOVATION IN FINANCIAL SERVICES. WE CONSIDER THEM AS VITAL TO QATAR'S DEVELOPMENT AND THE REALISATION OF THE GOALS SET OUT IN QATAR NATIONAL VISION 2030. WE WILL CONTINUE OUR COMMITMENT TO EXPLORE AND ATTRACT BUSINESSES IN NEW MARKETS TO THE QFC PLATFORM.”

YOUSUF MOHAMMED AL JAIDA

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER QATAR FINANCIAL CENTRE (QFC) AUTHORITY

36

With Qatar's GDP growing by 1.4 percent in Q1 2018, compared with the same period in 2017, and the country's commitment to open up to foreign investors, Qatar is continuing to prosper and it is no wonder that international businesses are keen to explore the array of opportunities available.

“The QFC is a gateway for FDI and innovation in financial services. We consider them as vital to Qatar's development and the realisation of the goals set out in Qatar National Vision 2030. We will continue our commitment to explore and attract businesses in new markets to the QFC platform,” he said. Under its financial services plan, QFC wants to attract a maximum number of Islamic financial institutions by 2022 to realise its objective of developing Doha as a regional capital of Islamic finance. Presently, some ten Shariah-compliant companies are operating under QFC. “There should be at least 50 Islamic finance companies out of the 1,000 companies we are planning to bring on our platform by 2022,” he said. There are around 20 Shariah-compliant financial institutions in present Qatar and once the objective realised, even international non-Islamic companies can do

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Islamic finance business through Qatar. Al Jaida also said that they are looking at five percent of the total number of companies getting listed on Qatar Stock Exchange. “We are looking at 15 companies to be listed by 2022. Of this, five are in the pipeline and two of them will be listed this year,” he explained.

NEW FDI LAW One of the measures taken by the government to attract foreign companies is the new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) legislation which is expected to be in place by the end of this year, and the upcoming economic zones which are expected to make Qatar a hub for trade and reexports. If Qatar becomes a hub for re-exports, the corporate sector gains the most from Qatar’s direct and new shipping lines which offer huge potential for countries such as Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey and others in the region whose population is more than 400 million.The new law, which is an amendment to Law No 13. of 2000, is aimed at attracting foreign capital inflows, accelerating economic development and commercial activities and achieving economic diversification. However, banking and insurance would need approval from the Prime Minister due to the sensitive nature of the sectors. The existing law allows foreign firms to invest in all sectors up to a maximum of 49 percent in the equity of Qatari limited liability companies.

QATAR A NEW GATEWAY Further, plans are also underway to develop Qatar as a gateway to the QR7.65 trillion ($2.1 trillion) regional market, as it has capitalised on the unjust blockade by converting the challenges into opportunities by introducing a series of economic and other reforms, and has come under the spotlight of global companies and investors. QFC has been focusing on the few markets such as Kuwait, Oman, Turkey, India, Pakistan and other countries in the Southeast Asia region, which constitutes a very big economic block. “We firmly believe that Dohabased companies can serve these markets better,” Al Jaida said. According to him, the five emerging markets —Turkey, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan and Qatar — have a total population of over 400 million generating a combined GDP of about QR7.65 trillion

($2.1 trillion) and contributing about QR2.98 trillion ($1.13 trillion) of trade, providing huge opportunities for business, trade and investment.The government even allocated QR7.28 billion ($2 billion) to attract multinational companies to its financial centre.

“Companies that set up a hub in Doha will be provided free offices and tax incentives as well as seed capital to cover five years of operating expenses in return for a commitment of at least a decade,” Al Jaida told Bloomberg TV. TRADE AND ROAD SHOWS In a bid to attract foreign investments, QFC held road shows and also attended trade events in several countries in Europe and Asia during the year. At an event in Hong Kong, Al Jaida said that the relationship between Qatar and its partners in Asia continued to grow year–on–year. As a matter of fact, over 22 percent of the firms registered under the QFC in 2016 were from the Asia–Pacific region.

Qatar is experiencing a flourishing relationship with Hong Kong and China as trade relations continue to grow, and Chinese companies look to expand their businesses to the Middle East.

Bilateral trade between Qatar and Hong Kong stood at QR713.44 million ($196 million) in 2016, and the One Belt, One Road initiative is further helping to strengthen the relations between both regions. In China, a QFC delegation held panel discussions, face-to-face consultations and networking events with professionals from Chinese corporations in Xiamen, Shanghai, Beijing and Tianjin after Bank of China, one of the five biggest state-owned commercial banks in China and the fourth-largest bank in the world, decided to join QFC’s onshore regulated platform.

In Turkey, senior QFC officials took part in the 7th Uludag Economy Summit, which was held in Uludag in March. The QFC’s participation comes as part of its efforts to promote Qatar as a lucrative destination for companies looking to expand their operations to the Middle East and tap into Qatar’s multibillion-dollar infrastructure programme.

Trade relations between Qatar and Turkey

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continued to increase as Turkish companies undertook 128 projects totaling QR51.69 billion ($14.2 billion) in Qatar in the first quarter of 2017.

The bilateral trade volume stood at a little over QR3 billion ($834.5 million) in 2016 and that figure was recorded at QR2.30 billion ($634 million) in the first eight months of 2017.

IN EUROPE The QFC officials also participated in the Global Business & Markets international exhibition in Germany, which is the 12th largest trading partner for Qatar with 2.4 percent of the total value of trade exchange. Currently, there are 27 companies fully owned by Germans operating in Qatar with a total capital of QR1.3 billion in addition to 112 companies in partnership with Qataris working with a total capital of QR 1.1 billion.

These companies are operating in the fields of railway development, trading, contracting, services, communication, infrastructure and more. Likewise, the bilateral trade between Qatar and France rose by 30 percent in 2017 to QR98.28 million ($27 million) compared to 2016. Even the trade ties between Qatar and Spain continued to grow as bilateral trade between the two countries in 2017 increased by 37 percent to more than QR4.5 billion compared with the previous year.

In February 2018, Qatar and Spain signed an agreement to avoid double taxation and prevent income tax evasion (DTA).During the road shows in France and Spain, the QFC officials highlighted market sectors to potential investors and they included QR72.8 billion of Investment in Qatar's sports and events market till 2023, QR46.6 billion in transportation, QR21.12 billion in healthcare and QR20 billion in the tourism and culture sectors.

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FLUCTUATING FORTUNES AS IN OTHER REGIONS AROUND THE WORLD INCLUDING THE GCC, QATAR’S REAL ESTATE MARKET HAS BEEN FLUCTUATING IN THE LAST FEW YEARS DUE TO THE SPECULATION AND IMBALANCES BETWEEN SUPPLY AND DEMAND FORCES. THE REAL ESTATE MARKET ACCOUNTS FOR NEARLY 38 PERCENT OF THE DOMESTIC CREDIT ISSUED BY LOCAL BANKS.

W

hile the first nine months of 2016 witnessed a sharp fall in real estate prices, it started showing signs of recovery in the last quarter which continued till June 2017 when the Saudi-led embargo impacted growth, albeit in a moderate manner.

After weathering the crisis and the country’s economy adjusting to the new changes and challenges, the Qatari real estate market stabilized and started growing since the end of 2017 till the first quarter of 2018.

However, the rentals and purchases in the market started declining since the second quarter of 2018, again because of oversupply and low demand for properties.

“Moreover, there is a trending change in people’s taste for moving to modern buildings instead of older ones. Finally, several companies chose not to renew their rental contracts for large premises, moving instead to smaller ones to suit their reduced staff sizes due to the completion of a large number of construction projects,” the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics

(MDPS) said in a report.

The report also pointed out that despite falling real estate prices, the demand for bank credit increased during Q1 of 2018 before markedly declining in Q2. As credit growth improved by 15.6 percent in March 2018, the annual growth of the real estate index improved from a decline of 9.9 percent in December 2017 to a drop of 9.3 percent in March 2018.

“THE LARGE NUMBER OF VISITORS AND THE EXTENSIVE MEDIA COVERAGE IS A CLEAR INDICATION OF THE STEADY GROWTH OF THE NATIONAL ECONOMY AND THE GROWING DEMAND FOR INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN QATAR AND THE RESILIENCE OF THE COUNTRY'S REAL ESTATE SECTOR.”

IBRAHIM JASSIM AL OTHMAN PRESIDENT AND CEO UNITED DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

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FILLIP TO REAL ESTATE To shore up the real estate sector, His Highness, The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Al Thani, issued a new law enabling foreigners to own property in areas designated by Qatar’s cabinet.

In addition to opening up the property market, Qatar has also allowed 100 percent foreign ownership of companies, relaxed entry visa requirements and introduced permanent residency for expatriates. The legislation for foreign real estate ownership is expected to boost sales for residential and commercial properties in Qatar, as well as increase foreign direct investment.

Another knock–on effect may be an increase in foreign businesses establishing regional bases

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in Qatar, meaning increased demand from expatriates and the market witnessing more transactions, the Qatar edition of the first-ever Property finder noted.

According to the biannual “Property finder Qatar Trends Real Estate Report 2018,” Qatar’s volume of real estate transactions remains with the potential for further growth.

“Lusail and Msheireb are good examples of new, attractive areas for consumers in Qatar.

Interest in these areas and additional emerging neighbourhoods, such as Al Sakhama and Umm Salal, have seen steady increases in consumer interest,” it said.

Whilst not matching the most popular areas, having the options of new locations, community and pricing is only a good thing for the Qatar real estate market. The most popular areas continue to be The Pearl, Al Sadd and West Bay for apartments, and Al Waab and Abu Hamour for villas. As for the sales market, the Pearl continues to top the list, along with West Bay and West Bay Lagoon. It will be interesting to see how quickly the new areas such as Lusail and Mushireb gain ground on these current leaders.

The report said cities outside of Doha continue to offer lower prices for villas, and more renters continue heading out to areas such as Al Wakrah, Al Sakhama and Al Khor.

However, over the past year, neighbourhoods in Doha have also lowered their prices, and areas like Ain Khaled and Al Aziziyah are now offering budget-friendly villas. West Bay Lagoon and Al Waab continue to offer luxurious villas that come with a higher price tag. In Doha, West Bay Lagoon and The Pearl, freehold areas known for lavish beachfront homes carry some of the highest price tags in Qatar. Moving beyond the capital, Al Wakra and Umm Salal are areas where buyers can find affordable villas.

SPURT IN REAL ESTATE DEALS Data published by MDPS showed that the number of transactions in the first nine months of 2018 was up by 14.4 percent y-o-y to 3,148 transactions, while value transacted declined by 32 percent y-o-y over the same period to QR14.95 billion.

Meanwhile residential rents continued to

HOTEL ROOM SUPPLY 2015 -2019 ) 000 KEYS ( Hotel and Serviced Apt Rooms

2019E

Expected Supply

28.7

2018E

25.2

2017

25.2

2016

4.5 3.5

22.9

2015

20.7

decline in the third quarter of 2018 as asking rents were down by 3.9 percent q-o-q. The fall in rentals is reportedly higher for villas in secondary locations, and apartments in areas such as West Bay, Al Sadd, Old Airport and Al Wakrah. The softness in the residential market is reportedly

“WE EXPECT THE MARKET TO REVEAL ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES DUE TO VARIOUS REGULATORY INCENTIVES ANNOUNCED

BY THE GOVERNMENT TO ATTRACT FOREIGN INVESTMENT. THIS ALONG WITH THE COMPLETION OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS TO AUGMENT THE WORLD CUP.”

PAWEL BANACH GENERAL MANAGER VALUSTRAT QATAR

39

pushing landlords in The Pearl and Lusail to offer tenants rent–free periods and a waiver of utility expenses. The office rents in Lusail receded by six percent q-o-q in the third quarter of 2018 with the addition of office buildings in Energy City and Marina. Office rents in West Bay declined by 1.4 percent as vacancy rates remained in the range of 35-40 percent.

Meanwhile, a recent report from consulting firm ValuStrat said that real estate transactions worth QR17 billion were signed in Qatar during the first nine months of the year.

The report further said that the increase in transactional volume and market corrections is expected to increase affordability and quality of delivered properties that could reinvigorate the market. Residential unit prices fell because of rising supply, subdued population growth and increased borrowing costs. The weighted average value of a residential unit stood at QR8,434 per sq m. More specifically, apartments were QR12,208 per sq m and villas stood at QR6,555 per sq m, ValuStrat noted. Projected completions for 2018 have been reduced from 12,800 units to 10,600 due to delayed deliveries. With the addition of 26,000 sq m of gross leasable area (GLA), office supply reached a total of 4mn sq m of leasable space during the same period.

According to ValuStrat, the third quarter of 2018 ended with 26,170 hotel rooms as Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments and Souq Al Wakrah Hotel were unveiled in the hospitality sector. ValuStrat

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Qatar general manager Pawel Banach said that market corrections continued this quarter as rents and prices continued to fall due to oversupply prevalent across all sectors. It is expected that increasing affordability and quality of delivered properties could reinvigorate the market.

SWINGING SALES As a testament to the growth of the real estate sector, several companies have announced new and prestigious projects during the year.

One of the leading real estate firms in Qatar – United Development Company (UDC) – has unveiled its latest project “Gewan Island” at the annual mega event Cityscape Qatar. The 400,000 sq m project is located adjacent to The Pearl–Qatar, with construction works due to be completed in 2021.

UDC is expected to invest a total of QR5.5 billion in key projects during its five-year sustainable strategy (2018-2022) thus reflecting its commitment to pursuing unique development projects and moving forward to tap new investment opportunities to bolster corporate gains and minimise risk by taking advantage of residential and commercial investment opportunities at The Pearl-Qatar and Gewan Island.

The company has also sold properties worth around QR70 million during the Cityscape Qatar.

UDC President & CEO Ibrahim Jassim Al Othman said that Cityscape Qatar was the perfect choice for the launch of their projects because of the wide audience of local and international investors the show attracted. Another leading firm, Just Real Estate (JRE), recorded sales worth QR80 million, showcasing properties from its portfolio including Baywalk Tower and THE e18teen at the Cityscape Qatar event. During the event, Ezdan Holding showcased some of its mega projects including Ezdan Oasis and Ezdan Palace, while Qatar Rail showed the future of transport in the country, showcasing its Transit Oriented Developments (TOD) mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly projects around rail transit stations that act as community hubs with easy walkability and minimal parking that will enhance public transport use.

Another consulting firm, DTZ, said that residential rents have remained stable in Qatar over Q3 this year. West Bay and The Pearl-Qatar have typically dropped by 10-15 percent over the past 12 months,

with rent-free incentives of at least a month available on the majority of new leases. The drop in rent has restored a sense of affordability to the prime residential sector, following several years of escalating rents. With the government frequently announcing new infrastructure projects worth millions besides the ongoing ones, especially those pertaining to the 2022 FIFA World Cup worth around QR200 billion, the latest projects are expected to create additional demand in the construction sector.

LONE GAINER According to Kamco Research, real estate equities in the GCC region except Qatar continued their underperformance vis-a-vis the broader market in 2018 year-to-date. Structural issues affecting demand for real estate have continued and reflected in negative sentiment towards real estate equities, as the Thomson Reuters GCC RE index fell by over 27 percent YTD as of November 2018.

The Dubai Real Estate & Construction index was the main laggard and has plunged by 32.2 percent YTD until November 2018. The Real Estate index in Saudi Arabia, which comprises real estate developers, declined by 30.5 percent YTD as of November 2018. The Qatar RE sector remained the lone gainer in the GCC, gaining 11% YTD in November 2018 as the broader market in Qatar rallied in 2018, the report said.

MERGER LIKELY The year ended with reports that Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development was looking at the possibility of a merger with Al Bandari Real Estate Company,

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one of the country's leading real estate companies with a portfolio of premium luxury projects. The move comes in line with Mazaya’s policy to join projects and transactions with a suitable income.

Board Member and CEO of Mazaya Hamad bin Ali Al Hedfa said: “The value of the transaction will be determined after the consultants' work has ended, and such transaction is expected to have its positive return, which results in an increase in the company's profits and assets and enhances the stability of the company domestically and strengthens it regionally.”

On the Al Bandari tie-up, Mazaya Chairman Rashid bin Fahad Al Naimi said: "It is a strategic partnership aimed at boosting our presence in the region. Al Bandari is one of the leading real estate companies in Qatar and owns a couple of income–generating assets besides providing support services for the real estate.” Al Bandari Chairman Mohammed bin Abdul Latif Al Mana said: “Mazaya Real Estate Development is one of the leading real estate developers listed on the Qatar Exchange. It has been a pioneer in the implementation of BOT contracts based on ecofriendliness and sustainable development standards in the development of its real estate projects.” He also said that the potential transaction would expand the customer base of both companies and raise their value of financial leverage in terms of increasing their real estate assets and their unlimited expansion to develop the real estate sector in all its aspects through the launch of new projects and increasing the volume of sales and the pace of implementation.

The success of the transaction will create a new entity that will be one of the largest players in the Qatari real estate sector, he added.

EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION

HE DR MOHAMMED ABDUL WAHED ALI AL HAMMADI MINISTER OF EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION

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SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUCATION THE EDUCATION SECTOR HAS BEEN WITNESSING SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION, WITH TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS AMOUNTING TO QR19 BILLION IN THE 2018 BUDGET. THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION HAS CONTINUED ITS ACHIEVEMENTS IN KEEPING PACE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE COUNTRY'S NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY AND EDUCATION AND TRAINING SECTOR STRATEGY.

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he ministry achieved more successes and good results at all levels related to the development of the educational process in the country, especially in the areas of institutional development and upgrading the performance of students at the level of public and private schools and higher education and teachers, as well as future programmes and projects to keep pace with the 2017/2022 Education and Training Sector Strategy plan.

The achievements of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education have been reflected in several areas, including institutional development.

The Ministry's 2017-2022 strategy was launched, the organizational structure was developed, the technical and vocational education administration was introduced, positive relations with the community, the media, social networking were established, administrative posts were Qatarized, and the system of appointing school leaders, the level of responsibility and accountability at schools and cooperation with the private sector in various fields were upgraded.

“EFFORTS MUST BE FOCUSED ON USING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO EDUCATE THE MIDDLE CLASS IN ORDER TO ENABLE ITS MEMBERS TO SECURE FURTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND OBTAIN THE DIGITAL SKILLS THAT ARE DIRECTLY LINKED TO FUTURE JOBS.”

HE DR MOHAMMED ABDUL WAHED ALI AL HAMMADI MINISTER OF EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION

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With regard to students' affairs, the documents and standards of the curricula developed for all basic school subjects were issued, the main sources of learning for the State of Qatar were created, based on the standards developed for levels from 1 through 10, STEM programmes of teaching and learning science, technology, engineering and (mathematics or medicine) materials in an integrative manner were applied, the application of e-learning at schools was expanded and Al Hidayah Primary School for students with special needs, the first specialized school for students with autism disorder and simple and medium mental disability, was established.

Wechsler Intelligence Tests and mental capacity assessment scales were amended to match the Qatari environment and plans were developed to apply them in a number of schools and to apply the Koder Global Program as a tool for exploring the tendencies and inclinations of high school students. An adult literacy and education branch was opened in Qatar Technical School, the tests system and anti-fraud procedures were upgraded and Qatari students achieved forward positions

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in international competitions and participated in five research projects funded by Qatar National Research Fund at the International Science and Engineering Fair, an annual competition in 17 fields of scientific research.

With regard to teachers, the following developments were achieved. The Educational Training and Development Center for Educational Leaders and Teachers was established, the professional licensing system has been developed and launched after the completion of the trial application to ensure the efficiency of teachers, a comprehensive and unified electronic system to follow up the performance of teachers and provide highly competent teaching cadres for curricular in all school stages was developed, Qataris were encouraged to join the teaching profession, teaching and administrative burdens of teachers were reduced based on field studies, and a draft resolution was prepared for the Council of Ministers to issue a job description system for school staff and determine all financial and work affairs relating to teaching and administrative staff at schools. For private schools, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has developed adult education systems and regulations, unified private and public school holidays, established general rules for building identity promotion systems and evaluating the behaviour of students, developed a school categorization system based on characteristics and quality standards with a special focus on the performance of students and its conformity with the actual performance levels and supported the participation of the private sector in the development projects of the country.

In the field of higher education, the project of organizing and updating the system of equivalence of university degrees was prepared, the Community College of Qatar was supported and developed and a bachelor's degree introduced, all the students affected by the measures of the blockading countries were absorbed, a work team to consider the complaints of the affected students in these countries was set up and appropriate actions were taken on a case-by-case basis, the electronic system and procedures of considering the applications for university degrees equivalence were simplified and an electronic system for applications for the

establishment of institutions of higher education was developed.

The National Qualifications Framework project has been completed, and licences have been granted to a number of private universities to operate in the country in cooperation with foreign universities.

The College of the North Atlantic has been developed and the transition period after which it can become a national college has begun. In terms of the future aspirations, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has a number of programmes and projects that it is working to implement, including raising the quality of early education in kindergartens and public schools. This project includes applying early education systems and policies, upgrading the efficiency of teachers and kindergarten leaders, and widening the project to develop language and arithmetical skills. Future programmes also include the national curricula development programme, completing a project to review and revise Qatar's national curriculum, designing and organizing specialized training and development programmes to apply the updated school curriculum, updating evaluation mechanisms and strategies in line with the updated curriculum, developing electronic content and pictorial lessons, designing learning resources for optional subjects and learning resources supportive of the basic curriculum, and developing academic and vocational guidance programmes at the secondary school stage.

Future educational aspirations also include a programme of a comprehensive system of quality management for teachers and school leaders of public and private schools. This includes the continuation of the system of attracting, supporting and evaluating teachers, coordinators and academic representatives in government schools, developing the system of selection, monitoring and evaluation of principals and administrative deputies in public schools, developing career

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paths for teachers, school leaders and employees of public schools, and continuing the project to develop the performance of teachers and leaders of private schools.

Future programmes also include developing and upgrading the operations and procedures in various departments of the ministry, developing a comprehensive database of education and training, building and disseminating a distinct institutional culture in the ministry, and developing the educational policy of the State of Qatar.

The programme for upgrading the quality of services provided to stakeholders includes the establishment of the unified portal for services alongside with the electronic transformation and development of the ministry's services extended to the public.

Future projects of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education include the development of a comprehensive system for the evaluation and diagnosis of special education students, the rehabilitation of 64 schools to become centres for the integration of students with disabilities, the implementation of the project to care for the gifted, the development of vocational and technical education and training at different levels of education, the implementation of the licensing and quality control policies of higher education institutions, the development and enhancement of the National Qualifications Framework in the State of Qatar, and the preparation of the draft executive regulations of the law regulating higher education.

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HBKU: INNOVATING TODAY, SHAPING TOMORROW HAMAD BIN KHALIFA UNIVERSITY (HBKU), A MEMBER OF QATAR FOUNDATION FOR EDUCATION, SCIENCE, AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (QF), WAS FOUNDED IN 2010 AS A RESEARCH-INTENSIVE UNIVERSITY THAT ACTS AS A CATALYST FOR TRANSFORMATIVE CHANGE IN QATAR AND THE REGION WHILE HAVING A GLOBAL IMPACT.

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ver the past decade and more, there has been an everincreasing emphasis on the importance of education. Long identified as anchors of progress, education and knowledge have become especially important as the world steadily moves towards a state of vital interconnectedness, and a need for a highly skilled and adept workforce.

For knowledge to advance, it has to start at the core. The State of Qatar has identified key areas through which it seeks to deepen its footprint in the global arena, and establishing a recognized, worldclass academic hub tops that list.

The vision of Qatar Foundation is to advance education at all levels, including K-12, undergraduate and graduate studies. The Foundation seeks to impart knowledge across all areas of research and create a community of information-seekers who work progressively towards common goals. HBKU is an organic extension of this vision and, although native in its origins, the university remains globally minded in its approach.

As it nears 10 years of progress, HBKU’s

developmental milestones are a solid reflection of its maturity.

“OUR MAIN PRIORITY FOR THE FUTURE IS TO TAKE INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE FORWARD IN THE BEST WAY POSSIBLE. WE ALSO WANT TO ENGAGE THE BUSINESSES IN THE COUNTRY AS WE DO NOT WANT INNOVATION IN ISOLATION. WE ARE STRIVING TO EXPAND OUR PRESENCE WHILE ENSURING WE REMAIN PART OF A COHESIVE, INTEGRATED INFRASTRUCTURE THAT AIMS TO SERVE ALL OF US TODAY, AS WELL AS THE GENERATIONS OF TOMORROW.”

DR AHMAD M. HASNAH

PRESIDENT HAMAD BIN KHALIFA UNIVERSITY

 ADVERTORIAL

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DELIVERING INNOVATION HBKU has just concluded its second Innovation Center cycle to develop a culture under which innovative ideas can thrive and are encouraged.

More specifically, it will play a critical and integral role by advancing novel ideas and supporting early innovation by addressing gaps, in particular during the pre-seed and seed stages in the life cycle of a start-up. Eleven idea challenges were presented, each geared towards a modern-day challenge.

Through its Qatar Center for Artificial Intelligence (QCAI), the Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) at HBKU has recently revealed its national AI blueprint, which aims to provide a roadmap towards a smarter, automated future for the State of Qatar. The plan outlines six pillars that seek to cultivate talent; encourage data access; integrate business and AI; foster wealth creation; capitalize on inborn national advantages and interlink AI, ethics and international practice. Both automation and artificial intelligence will soon become inseparable from daily human life, and the State

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of Qatar is acknowledging this by seeking and creating national knowledge, delivered in part by the efforts of QCAI, QCRI and its researchers and scientists.

HBKU has also become the first university in the Middle East to collaborate with edX. Its offerings of online Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) is a form of adaptability to a rapidly changing academic landscape, where fluid forms of learning are taking precedence every day. It is one more way to offer a supportive environment for global learners — one that is conducive to lifelong learning principles, irrespective of the boundaries that may otherwise govern us.

These MOOCs, much like HBKU’s programmes, were not introduced in isolation and aim to be at the vanguard of local, regional and global needs.

The HBKUx Solar Energy in Hot Desert Climates and upcoming Sustainability and Major Sport Events programmes were designed to align practice with mission and help build capacity as the country moves towards its flagship event — the FIFA 2022 World Cup.

CULTIVATING PARTNERS It takes resilience and a sense of association for national progress to be realized.

Over the past year, HBKU has been working with partners in all hemispheres of the globe, with each collaboration contributing to the university’s overall development. HBKU signed an MoU with the Ministry of Developmental Planning and Statistics to invest in human capital and facilitate the development and implementation of scientific and research projects.

In line with tackling grand challenges, the Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) has inked an agreement with Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC) to initiate a pilot testing programme for desalination technology development.

On the international front, the university’s Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) has established a collaboration with the Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI). QBRI scientists are working closely with HSCI researchers to exchange knowledge and best practice, and to accelerate the

translation of discoveries into clinical applications.

In addition to building scientific capacity in the region, the partnership supports groundbreaking research in stem cell biology. Further, HBKU is solidifying its partnership with Paris-based Imagine Institute for Genetic Diseases to employ a range of scientific methodologies such as non-coding DNA, multigenic models, single cell analyses, deep learning/artificial intelligence, and advance dmedical research.

ENABLING PEOPLE Our core mandate is to advocate our people (our students) as they move confidently into the workplace. As an institution for higher learning, we aim to equip them with all they need to navigate the unmet demands of their time.

The College of Islamic Studies (CIS) – HBKU’s first integrated academic division – held its Ethics Co-Lab initiative to promote understanding of the United Nations (UN)’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tie them into ethical practices and religion.  ADVERTORIAL

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The Translation and Interpreting Institute, part of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at HBKU, marked 10 years since its inaugural Annual International Translation Conference — a purposeful, thought-provoking platform for intellectual and academic debate.

This year’s focus area was the marginalization of translators and translation as a profession.

Students at the College of Science and Engineering (CSE) engaged in a two-week Seeds of the Future programme as they worked at Huawei’s headquarters in Shenzhen, China. They studied at its cutting-edge ICT training centre, operating and practicing in a real life setting and receiving up-to-date ICT solution demonstrations from the organization’s experts.

The College of Law and Public Policy (CLPP) has offered its students a three-week summer course in The Hague Academy of International Law, where they took part in a series of theoretical and practical course modules, including visits to the permanent Court of Arbitration, the International

Court of Justice (ICJ) and a number of diplomatic embassies.

ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE There is an imperative duty to remain mindful of the changes that surround us, and for our students to be able to comprehend, decipher, and contribute meaningfully to relevant solutions. To date, the university celebrates more than 550 achieving graduates, each forming an intrinsic part of its cultural, social and academic legacy. Our student body’s diversity is a reflection of a burgeoning environment, with Doha classified as one of several top destinations for young graduates looking to initiate their careers.

HBKU’s portfolio of academic programmes is in a state of constant yet calculated expansion.

Last year alone, the university launched new and multidisciplinary degrees in the areas of logistics and supply chain management; data analytics and health management; Islamic finance; art; architecture; and urbanism and global affairs.

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Our main priority for the future is to advance innovation and excellence in the best way possible.

We want to engage the businesses in the country, as we do not want innovation in isolation. We are striving to expand our presence while ensuring we remain part of a cohesive and integrated infrastructure that aims to serve us all today, as well as the generations of tomorrow.

ABOUT DR AHMAD M. HASNAH Dr Ahmad M. Hasnah is the president of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development in Doha, Qatar. Since he joined QF in 2002, Dr Hasnah has been a key player in the development of Education City into a unique hub for knowledge and education through partnerships with worldclass educational and research institutions.

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QATAR UNIVERSITY, A PIONEER OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE DR. HASSAN BIN RASHID AL DIRHAM, PRESIDENT OF QATAR UNIVERSITY, SAID IN AN INTERVIEW WITH PROGRESS QATAR THAT QATAR UNIVERSITY'S MARCH BEGAN IN 1974 WHEN THE GREEN BOOK OF THE GULF UNIVERSITY, THE UNIVERSITY'S PERCEIVED NAME AT THAT TIME, WAS PUBLISHED.

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he book included a comprehensive study of higher education in the State of Qatar: its concepts, plans and stages. The College of Education started in the academic year 1973-1974 at the two school buildings close to each other set up by the Ministry of Education to serve as separate campuses for male and female students of the college. Dr Al Dirham added that the College of Education started with various scientific disciplines, such as chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology and geology, and awarded a bachelor's degree in science and education to form the nucleus of the faculty of science of Qatar University later. The College subsequently offered literary specialties such as geography, history, English, Arabic, sociology and social service, and awarded a bachelor’s degree in arts and education.

After the issue of the law establishing the university, specifically in December 1977, the so-called Brown Book — a historical study that includes the plan of the university until the end of the nineties — was published. The founding committee began thinking about permanent university buildings as early as the beginning of the university project,

"SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN THE 1970S, QATAR UNIVERSITY HAS BEEN THE ENGINE, THE VIBRANT HEART OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE CENTER OF ENLIGHTENMENT, AND HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOCIETY BY PREPARING QUALIFIED GRADUATES, SCIENTISTS, CONSULTANTS AND RESEARCHERS IN ALL DISCIPLINES OF KNOWLEDGE.”

DR. HASSAN BIN RASHID AL DIRHAM PRESIDENT OF QATAR UNIVERSITY

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and culminated in the study and design stages in 1977. Implementation started since then until the buildings were opened in 1985. Since that date, Qatar University has become Qatar’s leading higher education institution that offers quality and world-class education to over 20,000 students, and with the fastest-growing research portfolio in the region. For over four decades, Qatar University has been the driving force and throbbing heart of the community and a centre of enlightenment. Commenting on this, Dr Al Dirham said: "The tremendous wealth of the regional gains and achievements has helped us to be an active partner in the Qatari society, and a renowned university. The university has been interacting with the local community and contributing to its development, thanks to the university’s academic and research experts that were and are able to respond to the needs of the society. The university is expanding its faculties, academic departments and academic programmes to keep pace with the requirements of Qatar National Vision 2030. We acknowledge our responsibility to promote the culture and identity of the Qatari society in support of the futuristic vision and development strategies

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ACCREDITATION AWARDED TO QU ACADEMIC PROGRAMS (as of June 2017)

of the state within the context of the vision's social development pillar, which aims to preserve the national heritage of the State of Qatar and promote the lofty values of the Arab and Islamic identity.” At present, the university has nine faculties: Arts and Sciences, Management and Economics, Education, Engineering, Law, Pharmacy, Sharia and Islamic Studies, Health Sciences and Medicine, and offers the widest range of academic programmes that are designed to meet the increasing requirements of the society in the country. The university is committed to providing quality education in about 84 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, 41 of which are postgraduate including eight PhD, four diploma, and 27 master's programmes, alongside a professional degree in pharmacy called "Doctor of Pharmacy". About adding more programmes, Dr Al Dirham said: "Currently we are conducting a comprehensive study to specify the programmes we are going to add in light of the requirements of the labour market", predicting that the results of the study will appear in the next few months.

PARTNERSHIPS AND AGREEMENTS Al Dirham stressed the importance of Qatar University's partnerships with various sectors in the country in launching initiatives that are meant to deal with various social, economic, cultural and technical challenges. He said: "The university is proud of its close affinity with the public and of its relations with the public and private sector with which it has several memoranda of understanding and cooperation agreements on behalf of the students, teaching staff members and the university in general.

One of the great benefits of these agreements is the introduction of several specialized chair professorships, which contribute to the achievement of our research goals, promoting the principle of learning through work and actual practice and expanding the scope of partnerships with many leading institutions and companies in Qatar and abroad.”

The university has established fruitful partnerships with a group of industry leaders, especially in the field of oil and gas research, including, for instance, the partnership with

Accredited Programs QU Program / College

Accrediting Body

College of Arts and Sciences • BSc, Statistics

RSS - Royal Statistical Society, UK

• BSc, Chemistry

CSC- Canadian Society for Chemistry, CA

• BSc, Environmental Sciences

IES, CHES - Institute of Environmental Sciences (IES) and Committee of Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES), UK

• MSc, Environmental Sciences • BA, Mass Communication

ACEJMC - Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, USA

College of Business and Economics

AACSB - Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, USA

College of Education

NCATE National Council for Accreditation in Teacher Education, USA

• Bachelor in Primary Education

ACEI - Association for Childhood Education International

• Bachelor in Secondary Education

NSTA - National Science Teachers Association (Physics, Chemistry, Biology Concentration Areas)

• Diploma in Primary Education,

TESOL - Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (English ESL Concentration Area)

• Diploma in Secondary Education

NSTA - National Science Teachers Association (Physics, Chemistry, Biology Concentration Areas) TESOL - Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (English Concentration Area)

• Diploma in Early Childhood

NAEYC - National Association for the Education of Young Children

• Diploma in Special Education

CEC - Council for Exceptional Children

• Master in Special Education • Master in Educational Leadership

ELCC – Educational Leadership Constituent Council

College of Engineering • Bachelor in Architecture

NAAB – National Architectural Accrediting Board Inc.

• BSc, Chemical Engineering • BSc, Civil Engineering • BSc, Electrical Engineering • BSc, Mechanical Engineering • BSc, Industrial and Systems Engineering

ABET, Inc., USA

• BSc, Computer Science • BSc, Computer Engineering College of Health Sciences • BSc, Human Nutrition

ACEND - Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics, USA

• BSc, Biomedical Sciences

NAACLS - National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, USA

College of Pharmacy • BSc, Pharmacy

CCAPP - Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs, CA

• PharmD College of Law

BAC - British Accreditation Council, UK

• Bachelor of Law

HCERES- Haut conseil de l’evaluation de la recherche et de l’enseignement superieur

Foundation Program English

CEA - Commission on English Language Program Accreditation, USA

ExxonMobil Research - Qatar (EMRQ) that allowed researchers to identify dozens of previously unknown organisms in the region through comprehensive ecosystem analysis.

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GLOBAL RATINGS Qatar University continues to make achievements at the level of international ratings, to rank among the best 201 - 250 universities in the field of computer

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science for the second year and among the best 176 - 200 universities in the field of engineering and technology, divided by specialization, in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019, Qatar University has advanced in its computer science rating of 2018 to enter in the fold of the best 251-300 universities worldwide. “We are proud of this achievement that is to be added to the other milestones of the university. We are delighted to see the fruits of our commitment and dedication in the field of education and the development of our institutions in the fields of research, teaching and building strong relations with other educational institutions in the realm of internationality. This achievement will have an impact not only on the university, but also on the community, students, teaching staff and partners; and will also reflect positively on our academic cooperation both inside and outside Qatar,” Dr Al dirham said.

NEW STRATEGY The president of Qatar University stressed that the university's strategic plan 2018-2022 of the university focuses on the quality of the educational process, which was also the centre of attention in the university's seven sectoral strategies, including learning and education, student experiences, scientific research and knowledge upgrading, community engagement, institutional excellence, digital transformation, pioneering and innovation strategies. Dr Al Dirham explained that these strategies include 34 strategic objectives and 122 strategic initiatives at the moment, emphasizing the importance of hard work and sincere efforts to implement these strategies on the ground and support them with qualified and trained cadres.

Inspired by the new strategy and the broad lines of the future it is seeking to realize and the objectives the state is looking forward to achieve through this

prestigious educational institution, a new vision was formulated, stipulating that, “Qatar University will be recognized regionally for its qualitative excellence in education and research, and as a preferred choice for science students and researchers and a catalyst for Qatar's sustainable economic and social development.”

This shift is further enhanced by the Qatar University model, which serves to introduce itself as a national university distinct from other educational institutions and with a pioneering role to play in quality education and as a catalyst social partner and a driver of national development. As part of this ambitious model it also seeks to provide academic programmes and research projects that adopt international standards, take into account the elements of the Arab and Islamic culture and identity, and prepare a generation of outstanding and conscious national leaders in higher education.

The new strategy, stretching to 2022, reflects its responsiveness to national priorities in education, research, science and community engagement, and encompasses the aforementioned seven key strategies, including 34 strategic objectives and 122 strategic initiatives that the university undertook to implement throughout the lifetime of the strategy. Dr Al Dirham added that, “During this period, we are actively seeking to build a second class of leaders, as well as Qatari academics, who will continue the march in the future, especially now that Qatar University has become a wellestablished institution.” He indicated that over the last four years, Qatar University has recruited more than 130 new Qatari teaching staff members, who make up 35% of the country’s total teaching staff population, adding that, “We currently have more than 100 Qatari youths, of both genders, who were selected carefully and sent to the best

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international universities, and who will return to their university armed with new and diverse academic experiences and knowledge.”

RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS Commenting on scientific research at the university, Dr Al Dirham said: “The scientific research at Qatar University is witnessing a period of remarkable prosperity. The total funding received by the university includes $207.3 million from the National Priorities Research Program and a grant of $4.5 million in the exceptional proposals category.” In the academic year 2017-2018, the university received funds from Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) for 80 research projects, and had research partnerships with 332 local and international institutions. Dr Al Dirham also noted that the university has also succeeded in increasing the number of researchers by 422% between 2010 and 2017, and the researchers at the university published over 1,400 research papers in 2017.

The university currently has 13 patents registered between 2013 and 2018, and its research sector has made too many achievements to be mentioned here over the past years. But we can indicate here that the university scientists and researchers were able to develop a state-of-the-art open-air cooling technology which was successfully used at Khalifa International Stadium and which is expected to be used in agricultural greenhouses. In addition, researchers from Qatar University have succeeded in converting two hundred strains of micro algae extracted from the local environment into useful products such as high-quality and environmentally friendly biofuels, and food and organic fertilizer additives.

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VCUARTS: A CENTRE OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE IN ART AND DESIGN VCUARTS QATAR IS THE INTERNATIONAL BRANCH CAMPUS OF VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY’S PRESTIGIOUS SCHOOL OF THE ARTS (VCUARTS), WHICH HAS BEEN A TOP-RANKED ART AND DESIGN PROGRAMME IN THE U.S. FOR MORE THAN 10 YEARS, ACCORDING TO U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT.

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CUarts Qatar contributes to the vitality of human, social, economic and environmental development in Qatar and the region through creative innovation, expression and collaboration, while encouraging a dynamic intercultural environment of diverse research, learning and community engagement that is helping to develop exemplary artists, designers and scholars to build vibrant communities and diversified economies.

Established in 1998 through a partnership with Qatar Foundation, VCUarts Qatar celebrated its 20th anniversary in Education City in 2018 with a series of activities to celebrate the diversity of its alumni and their successes in the art and design fields. VCUarts Qatar offers students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in fashion design, graphic design, interior design and painting and printmaking, a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history and a Master of Fine Arts degree in design. In addition, VCUarts Qatar’s libraries have the broadest range of art and design books in Doha, as well as the

region’s only Materials Library.

The Hamad bin Khalifa Symposium on Islamic Art will take place at VCUarts Qatar on November 10-11, 2019 with the theme, “The Seas and the Mobility of Islamic Art.” Inspired

by Qatar’s distinctive location as part of international trade routes linking the Central Islamic lands, the Mediterranean, and the Indian Ocean, the eighth biennial symposium will foster a lively, engaged and critical discussion touching upon some of the most vital questions raised by these vibrant and rich interchanges of the arts. The general public is also welcome at VCUarts Qatar. Short courses in art and design are offered to all through the university’s Community Education Program.

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IDEAS THAT SHAPE YOUR WORLD START HERE CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY ATTRACTS A CERTAIN TYPE OF STUDENT: MOTIVATED, INVENTIVE, AND DRIVEN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. STUDENTS COME TO CARNEGIE MELLON TO LEARN, CREATE AND INNOVATE WITH THE VERY BEST. THEY LEAVE WITH THE PASSION, CONNECTIONS, CREDENTIALS AND LIFELONG FRIENDS WHO WILL HELP THEM CHANGE THE WORLD.

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or more than a century, Carnegie Mellon University has challenged the curious and passionate to imagine and deliver work that matters. A private, global university, Carnegie Mellon stands among the world's renowned educational institutions, setting its own course with programmes that inspire creativity and collaboration. Consistently top-ranked, Carnegie Mellon has more than 13,000 students and 110,000 alumni worldwide.

A WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION IN QATAR At the invitation of Qatar Foundation, Carnegie Mellon joined Education City in 2004 to deliver select programmes that will contribute to the long-term development of Qatar. Today, Carnegie Mellon Qatar offers undergraduate programmes in biological sciences, business administration, computational biology, computer science, and information systems. Nearly 400 students from 38 countries call Carnegie Mellon Qatar, home.

PROGRAMMES OF STUDY CMU-Q offers undergraduate programmes that are ahead of the curve, in fields at the forefront of technology, innovation, scientific discovery and economic growth. All undergraduate majors

require four years of full-time study, after which students earn a bachelor of science degree.

• Biological Sciences has a core curriculum of biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics and physics. In-depth exposure to multiple disciplines prepares students for careers at the forefront of emerging new fields.

• Business Administration provides the

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foundation for motivated students to become leaders in the business arena within Qatar, the region and the world. The programme emphasizes an analytical approach to problem-solving, providing the tools to adapt to an evolving business environment.

• Computational Biology applies computer science techniques to complex biological and

Ideas that shape your world start here.

Carnegie Mellon University attracts a certain type of student: motivated, inventive and driven to make a difference. Students come to Carnegie Mellon to learn, create and innovate with the very best. They leave with the passion, connections, credentials and lifelong friends who will help them change the world. www.qatar.cmu.edu

Biological Sciences • Business Administration • Computational Biology • Computer Science • Information Systems

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biomedical problems. The programme provides an intensive, interdisciplinary education grounded in the disciplines of biology and computer science.

• Computer Science provides students with the core skills of mathematical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and programming. The programme encourages creativity and provides the fundamental skills to develop new technologies.

• Information Systems is based on professional core courses that teach students to analyze, design, implement and test information systems using current and emerging practices. The flexible nature of the programme encourages students to work outside of traditional disciplinary boundaries.

LEARN BY DOING Students at Carnegie Mellon Qatar learn beyond the classroom through a slate of unique enrichment opportunities. Most students choose to

study abroad for part of their education, or travel on academic trips that enhance classroom work.

Students who intern receive on-the-job experience, which adds an important dimension to their undergraduate education.

Research is part of the fabric of a Carnegie Mellon education. Students engage in a wide variety of research endeavours, such as independent studies, senior and honours theses, summer internships and funded projects as junior researchers.

SMALL CAMPUS, BIG SPIRIT The CMU-Q student body is exceptionally diverse, representing nearly 40 nations. Students form a busy and active community, participating in clubs, organizing large-scale events, traveling for service and academics, and competing in local and international contests. The low student-

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to-professor ratio means students unparalleled individual attention.

receive

GRADUATES WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Graduates from CMU-Q are highly sought-after: most choose careers in top organizations, while a significant number pursue graduate studies at international institutions. With 12 graduating classes, the total number of alumni is nearly 900.

The CMU-Q alumni network has a growing influence, with most graduates working in Qatar or the region. You will find our alumni in organizations like Ooredoo, Qatar Airways, Qatar Shell, McKinsey and Company, KPMG, Siemens and ExxonMobil.

In Doha’s budding entrepreneurial sector, CMU-Q alumni members are a driving force, creating startups, mentoring current students and contributing to an emerging community of young innovators.

INFRASTRUCTURE

HE JASSIM BIN SAIF AL SULAITI MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS

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MAKING IT TO THE TOP AFTER LAUNCHING OPERATIONS IN DECEMBER 2016, HAMAD PORT HAS NOT ONLY FOUND A PLACE AMONG THE TOP SEAPORTS IN THE WORLD BUT HAS ALSO DEVELOPED CONNECTIVITY, WITH MORE THAN 40 PORTS SPREAD OVER THREE CONTINENTS, AND OFFERS OVER 24 SHIPPING SERVICES.

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amad Port has emerged as the region's largest smart and environment-friendly project by registering tremendous growth in the last two years and becoming a leading maritime hub in the Middle East. It is not only serving the local markets but also exporting domestically manufactured goods to more than three dozen countries.

The port has handled around 1.3 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) containers, over one million tonnes of break bulk cargo, over 255,000 of bulk cargo, over 68,000 vehicles and over 400,000 heads of livestock between January and December in 2018. In fact the Lloyd's List Global Awards 2018 has classified Hamad Port as among the best ports for its high levels of efficiency and the overall performance achieved in a record period, in addition to its important role in promoting innovative and environment-friendly technology in the ports sector by adopting initiatives that contribute to enabling and delivering sustainable smart infrastructure solutions.

Speaking about the role of transportation and communication, HE Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti ,Minister of Transport and Communications said: “Transportation and communication play a vital role in all areas of modern life. They ensure the delivery of goods and services for individuals and communities, underpin the growth of other

sectors, such as agriculture, industry, mining and trade and drive the development of modern cities, societies and economies.”

The classification underlines Hamad Port's efforts to achieve the Qatar National Vision 2030 in accordance with the Ministry of Transport and Communications' strategic plan, which

“TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATION PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN ALL AREAS OF MODERN LIFE. THEY ENSURE THE DELIVERY OF GOODS AND SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES, UNDERPIN THE GROWTH OF OTHER SECTORS, SUCH AS AGRICULTURE, INDUSTRY, MINING AND TRADE AND DRIVE THE DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN CITIES, SOCIETIES AND ECONOMIES.”

HE JASSIM SAIF AHMED AL SULAITI

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is implemented by Qatar Port's Management Company (Mwani Qatar). Mwani Qatar was the title sponsor of the Lloyd's List Global Awards 2018 ceremony, which was recently held in London and attended by more than 400 experts and representatives of the global shipping industry.

RECORD HANDLING In November 2018, Hamad Port set a new record by handling over two million TEU (containers) and five million tonnes of cargo, in record time with operations at the port since its launch, according to a Qatar New Agency (QNA) report. The port has completed handling its first one million TEUs containers in March 2018. The port's high capabilities and innovative technology, especially in the fields of clearance and inspection, have played a major role in facilitating operations and increasing port productivity. This has contributed to the acceleration of handling operations, thereby raising the port's competitiveness in terms of the time consumed in stevedoring services.

In terms of shipping lines, Hamad Port was able to build global network shipping in a short period thanks to the strong confidence it gained in the world's shipping and logistics community.

The port is now connecting more than 40 ports in three continents with over 24 shipping services and there are plans to expand the shipping network to include all continents of the world, the report said.

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CONSOLIDATING ITS POSITION Addressing a discussion on “Multiple Strategic Visions: the Future of Policy-related Investment” at the World Economic Forum at Davos in Switzerland in January 2019, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, said the blockade imposed on Qatar since mid-2017 has given the country the opportunity to cement its leading position as one of the strongest, most diverse and competitive economies in the region.

He said that Qatar has sought to make its economy more open to the world and developed direct trade lines with a number of major trading partners around the world, including India, Pakistan, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Central Asia. Through the many agreements signed with these countries, Qatar aims to promote its trade activity, targeting a market of nearly 400 million people in the first phase. “Qatar aims to reach global markets, whose population is 400 million, using its strategic location which links the East with the West, and its developed infrastructure and high-quality logistic services through Hamad Port and Hamad International Airport (HIA),” the Minister said. He said Hamad Port accounts for more than 27% of the trade volume in the Middle East. HIA is one of the biggest in the region and links more than 160 destinations around the world through Qatar Airways. After becoming fully operational in 2016, Hamad Port has initiated several steps in modernising its imports and exports that resulted in Qatar’s economic growth and diversification. Presently, it has a market share of 28% in the volume of trade

in the Middle East.

Around 1,600 vessels called at Hamad Port in 2018, according to QTerminals which was set up by Qatar Navigation (Milaha) and Qatar Ports Management Company (Mwani Qatar) to manage the port. Direct services to Hamad Port in recent times have reduced long waiting periods for consignees to receive their goods. Mwani Qatar has inked agreements with a number of local, regional and international players to strengthen Hamad Port’s status in the region. Hamad Port is already making a paradigm shift in Qatar’s economic diversification and competitiveness, import and re-export of goods.

EXPLORING NEW MARKETS After consolidating its position locally, QTerminals is now looking at opportunities in the Black Sea region as part of its strategy to expand internationally. QTerminals has already shortlisted a couple of projects and initial due diligence has been undertaken, its chief executive Neville Bissett told media on the sidelines of a function held to mark the signing of a memorandum of understanding with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC). “At the moment we are very carefully looking at opportunities in the Black Sea. We are also looking at the sub-continent,” said the CEO of QTerminals, whose container traffic averages 105,000 to 106,000 TEUs per month. The proposed projects are in those countries with extensive seacoast lines, Bissett said without elaborating further.The Black Sea, which lies between southeastern Europe and Asia

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Minor, is bordered by six countries — Romania and Bulgaria to the west; Ukraine, Russia and Georgia to the north and east; and Turkey to the south. The sea has an area of 168,500 sq miles (excluding the Sea of Azov, a length of 730 miles) and a depth of 7,257 feet. More than 16% of the world’s container traffic flows between Europe and Asia, allowing the Gulf Co-operation Council ports to capitalise on the thriving global shipping business, a study by A.T. Kearney said, adding that the demand for international trade coupled with the existing global ports network is another factor in the Gulf’s marine transport boom. “QTerminals, at present, is carefully looking at two to three projects and we are hopeful of coming off in the next six months. We have started the initial due diligence and we are looking at whether those projects will be viable before we jump in,” Bissett said. Although QTerminals had initially proposed to go alone, it is in talks with CHEC (after signing the MoU) on working together. Opportunities exist either in the ongoing operations in the developed ports, or maybe in greenfield to build the ports, wherein CHEC’s expertise can come in, Bissett said. “We look forward to high-quality opportunities wherever in the world. QTerminals on its own is making an international foray but we also look international with CHEC as a partner,” he said. Stating that QTerminals was looking forward to working with CHEC in different projects and geographical locations as part of expanding its operation globally, he said the company was looking at multiple projects, funding, design, construction, operation and others in the industry.

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FLYING HIGH QATAR AIRWAYS, THE NATIONAL CARRIER, ENJOYED GREAT SUCCESS IN 2018, WITH A ROBUST NETWORK EXPANSION AND NEW AIRCRAFT TAKING THE FLEET'S STRENGTH TO MORE THAN 230.

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esides, the airline has also entered into “groundbreaking global sports sponsorship agreements,” and became the first airlines in the world to take delivery of the Airbus A350-1000 in February 2018. It has also received 25 additional aircraft throughout the year. The new aircraft help the airline to keep the average age of its fleet under five years and serve new destinations.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said: “We have added 25 additional aircraft during 2018, taking our fleet to more than 230 and we have already taken four more in January alone,”he added.

He said: “Our achievements in 2018 prove that Qatar Airways has not wavered from its strategy and vision of constant growth and development, in order to provide our passengers the finest onboard experience every time they travel.”

ADDING A350-1000 Qatar Airways became the global launch customer of the world’s most technologically advanced aircraft—Airbus A350-1000—which went into full commercial service on the airline’s Doha-London route, on which the A350-900, the A380, Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner already operate, offering six flights a day between Qatar

and the United Kingdom’s capital to Heathrow Airport and 16 weekly flights to London Gatwick.

“OUR ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2018 PROVE THAT QATAR AIRWAYS HAS NOT WAVERED FROM ITS STRATEGY AND VISION OF CONSTANT GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, IN ORDER TO PROVIDE OUR PASSENGERS THE FINEST ONBOARD EXPERIENCE EVERY TIME THEY TRAVEL. WE HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT WE WILL NOT REST IN OUR DETERMINATION TO PUSH THE BOUNDARIES IN REDEFINING THE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE FOR EACH AND EVERY ONE OF OUR CUSTOMERS.”

AKBAR AL BAKER GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER QATAR AIRWAYS

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It is the first Airbus aircraft to be fitted with Qatar Airways’ revolutionary Qsuite business-class seat.

In October, the aircraft was added to the airline’s New York route.

In the same month, the airline announced that it had upgraded five of its current order of A350900s to the higher-capacity A350-1000.

NEW ROUTES AND EXPANSIONS Living up to its reputation as one of the world’s fastest-growing airlines, Qatar Airways launched a host of new destinations in 2018 including: Cardiff (United Kingdom), Canberra (Australia), Mombasa (Kenya), Gothenburg (Sweden), Da Nang (Vietnam), and Thessaloniki (Greece).

The airline also launched seasonal services to Mykonos (Greece), Bodrum and Antalya (Turkey) and Málaga (Spain).

The airline also added a host of new frequencies to several popular destinations including Montreal, Maldives, Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Amman, Muscat, Helsinki, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Milan, Vienna, Oslo, Copenhagen, Manchester and Zurich. These additions provided even more flexibility for both business and leisure passengers.

The airline also added its award-winning, patented Business Class seat, Qsuite, to routes including Shanghai, São Paulo, Chicago,

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Houston, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Canberra and Sydney. Passengers in these cities now have the opportunity to experience the airline’s renowned Business Class product, named ‘World’s Best Business Class Seat’ by the 2018 World Airline Awards, managed by international air transport rating organisation Skytrax.

As far as cargo is concerned, 2018 was a successful year as cargo volumes increased by 10.6% in 2018 compared with 2017. The highlight has been the launch of transpacific services, direct from Macau to Los Angeles and Mexico City. The new freighter service demonstrates the carrier’s commitment to customers in helping their business grow, offering them reduced flight times and quicker service without a stopover in Doha.

The cargo carrier bagged two prestigious awards in 2018 — “International Cargo Airline of the Year” at the Air Cargo India event and “Best Air Cargo Carrier - Middle East” at the Asian Freight Logistics & Supply Chain Awards.

SPONSORSHIPS AND AWARDS The airline signed a record number of sporting sponsorships with top-tier teams in 2018, further cementing Qatar’s role as a global centre for sport.

They include a five-year agreement with Bayern Munich in March, a multi-year partnerships with AS Roma the following month, with Boca Juniors of Argentina in May, with Barclays and CONMEBOL, the South American Football Confederation, in October and as official partner and official airline for FIFA 2018 World Cup Russia bringing football fans from around the world to Russia for the event.

In March 2018, Qatar Airways launched Oryx Kids Club designed to encourage children to explore the world by making their in-flight experience even more fun and inspiring.

The airline also received several awards during the year and was named “World’s Best Business Class” by the 2018 World Airline Awards, “Best Business Class Seat,” “Best Airline in the Middle East,” and “World’s Best First Class Airline Lounge.”

Qsuite was named “Best Business Class” in the AirlineRatings’ Airline Excellence Awards 2019.

The airline’s renowned dine-on-demand in-flight cuisine was also named “Best Catering”.

The airline clinched the “Best Inflight Service”

Award at the 29th Annual TTG Travel Awards. The airline was also named the “Best Middle Eastern/ African Airline” for the ninth consecutive year at the 2018 Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards.

In October, Qatar Airways won 10 new international service awards, including titles by four separate global industry leaders: Business Traveller, Kayak, Condé Nast Traveler and CJ Affiliate. The first three awards for “Best Long-Haul Airline”, “Best Business Class” and “Best Middle East Airline”, were presented to the airline at the global Business Traveller Awards 2018, held in London on 15 October.

This was followed by a further five awards for the Middle East and Africa region from global travel site, Kayak, including “Best Airline”, “Best Boarding”, “Best Comfort”, “Best Crew” and “Best Food”. The airline also received a high commendation for the “Global Excellence Award” at the 2018 CJ You Awards, in California, followed by third place in the “Top Airlines – International” category in the Condé Nast Travelers 2018 Reader’s Choice Awards.

GOING GLOBAL As part of its plans to invest in the strongest airlines to enhance operations and network connectivity around the world, Qatar Airways has completed an on-market purchase of certain A shares and H shares of China Southern Airlines Company Limited ("China Southern Airlines"), resulting in its aggregate holding of approximately 5% of the total issued share capital of the company.

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Given the complementary strengths and resources of each of China Southern Airlines and Qatar Airways, there are opportunities for them to work together and build a long-term relationship in ways that would bring benefits to customers of both airlines. Qatar Airways has already invested in British Airways’ owner International Airlines Group (20%), LATAM Airlines Group (10%), Air Italy (49%) and in Cathay Pacific (9.99%).

FIRST TO LAUNCH GLOBALBEACON Qatar Airways became the first airline in the ‎ world to launch GlobalBeacon, a key product solution created by FlightAware®and Aireon that provides the airline with global, real-time flight tracking. In September 2016, Qatar Airways announced that it would be the first airline to adopt this innovative technology that would feed directly into its Integrated Operations Centre.

Two years later, Qatar Airways, in partnership with FlightAware and Aireon, has announced that GlobalBeacon is now live and ready to provide the airline with global flight tracking, ahead of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Aeronautical Distress Safety System (GADSS) recommended timeline. GlobalBeacon will enable Qatar Airways to position itself to respond proactively in the event of an emergency, facilitating communication between the aircraft operator and the controller with constant fleet monitoring, automated distress alerts and tools that make it easy to share information.

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REFLECTIONS ON ENDEAVOUR IN MARCH 2019, GWC CELEBRATES 15 YEARS SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT. LOOKING BACK ON THIS PERIOD, THERE IS SO MUCH WE CAN BE PROUD OF AS A NATION.

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he ability to capitalize on an upward swing in the oil and gas market-developing infrastructure, diversifying economic sectors, attracting international events and investment throughout this period—all while having the foresight and planning to prepare for the lean times, providing Qatar with a stronger and resilient economy. The achievements of the nation are mirrored by the growth of the company, as the journey GWC has pioneered over the last 15 years is truly an unparalleled phenomenon in the State of Qatar. From humble beginnings starting with one warehouse in Industrial Area, it has taken painstaking effort to develop over three million square metres of logistics infrastructure distributed strategically across the nation to establish and become the market leaders in logistics and supply chain solutions, as well as creating several subsidiaries and becoming connected and associated with two of the world’s largest freight and courier networks through the acquisition of Agility Qatar, and as the authorized service contractor for UPS in Qatar, to become the managers of the largest fleet of transport vehicles in the nation; and developing and implementing a host of dedicated assets and systems specifically

designed to ensure the full spectrum of supply chain solutions are technology-driven and in line with the concepts of LEAN Kaizen under the highest standards of quality, health, safety, and environment. Our purpose-driven values of innovation and performance continue to propel us forward, maintaining and developing our position as the preferred logistics provider

SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN FAHAD BIN JASSEM BIN JABOR AL THANI CHAIRMAN GWC

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in the State of Qatar. This strength of purpose underpins the expert management that operates the Logistics Village Qatar, the GWC Bu Sulba Warehousing Park, the Bu Fesseela Warehousing Park, the dedicated logistics hubs and bases in Ras Laffan Industrial City, and the many other facilities and warehouses in the Doha Industrial Area and Messaieed Industrial City.

WHERE WE STAND We have continued to grow our competitive advantage, setting the benchmark in the delivery of solutions and development of our infrastructure. Our Contract Logistics, Forwarding, and Projects solutions have made major inroads in developing contracts with clients in the oil and gas, government, broadcasting, and sports verticals, while our Hazmat team continues to grow, creating and managing dedicated logistics bases for clients in the oil and gas sector.

By diligent management and promotion of our services, we have also managed to consolidate a solid and loyal customer base, developing existing contracts with clients, augmenting these agreements with best-in-class services through synergetic collaboration with other GWC solutions.

Our Transport department has played a major

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in which we provide our services but also ensure the health and safety of our employees, clients, site visitors and stakeholders. To develop a sense of unity among our colleagues and to reach out to the wider community, the Human Resources and Corporate Social Responsibility teams have encouraged participation in a variety of initiatives.

Among them were the company’s Iftar, blood donation drive and the Annual Sport Leagues within GWC and the month-long-7assanat Olympics and many educational initiatives.

role in moving materials to the new logistics bases for Hazmat oil and gas clients, while expanding our current contracts with healthcare providers. GWC Records has continued to grow its client base in the government and banking sectors, becoming the most widely used provider in both sectors with world-class facilities, processes and collaboration.

We have also seen our specialized solutions expand capabilities and offerings, with the Fine Art team entering into 4PL contracts with major museums in Qatar, and providing new restoration and conservation services under its banner.

Meanwhile, our Relocations department has diversified its scope to include the handling and transport of a variety of items, from highly delicate technical servers to luxury items and furnishings for elite clientele. Every business unit has consistently established the mindset of being the leading provider in the eyes of the customer, regardless of whether they serve the public or the private sector, from the largest operators to the latest start-ups.

GWC has pursued new ventures by adding LEDD Technologies, the market-leading services and solutions provider for business transformation needs. We revitalized our GWC Marine operation, first established in 2015, to offer shipping agency services that meet the economy’s growing needs, whilst operations at the country’s many ports continued to develop. Meanwhile, as the authorized service contractor for UPS in the State of Qatar, we have capitalized on our collaboration with Qatar Post to develop new opportunities among clients in the government and oil and gas sectors.

STRENGTH OF CHARACTER To enable our varied solutions to perform even better, we are exploiting the very latest technology and following the best practices to ensure our operations are the finest, most profitable operations possible. To this end, our Corporate IT and Continuous Improvement divisions have worked together throughout the year to implement technological and process-oriented enhancements across GWC. Any integrated logistics and supply chain company cannot perform without the wholehearted engagement of its employees. This is especially true at GWC, as our colleagues are at the heart of everything we do. We have therefore always endeavoured to provide the best working environment and empowerment to deliver the best for our colleagues and customers.

We have achieved this through QHSSE policies and systems that not only set the highest standards

WHAT’S NEXT FOR GWC? As we reflect upon the past, we take a moment to ponder the future. We, along with the nation, look forward to delivering the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the actualization of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

To this end, we prepare for the many infrastructure projects due for delivery and completion, for which the country has invited more participation from local stakeholders and foreign investors in the Qatari market. To achieve these goals, GWC will continue to support the nation’s goals, lay foundations and develop strategies in line with the country’s vision and ambitions, backed by resilience and preparedness for every contingency.

Continuing our customer focus, increasing our operational efficiencies, enhancing our standing as a technologically driven solutions provider and supporting the country in its strategic initiatives always in a safe and compassionate way: this is how we achieve our ambition in working with the nation towards a sustainable and diverse economy.

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PROVING CRITICS WRONG WHEN THE UNJUST ECONOMIC BOYCOTT BY SAUDI ARABIA AND ITS ALLIES TOOK PLACE IN JUNE 2017, MANY COUNTRIES DOUBTED WHETHER QATAR WOULD BE ABLE TO COMPLETE THE INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS PERTAINING TO THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP IN TIME.

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owever, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) proved these skeptics wrong and made it clear that it would complete the works on roads leading to the World Cup stadiums long before the beginning of the most awaited tournament in the region. In fact, 90 percent of these projects are expected to be completed in 2018, Ashghal officials claimed.

Ashghal President Dr Saad bin Ahmad Al Muhannadi has affirmed that they will complete the works well ahead of schedule and pointed out that the completion of Lusail Expressway will directly serve Lusail Stadium where people can go from Doha in a short time.

Ashghal has also been working on Al Khor Expressway and will complete it by the end of 2019, it directly connects to the Lusail Stadium and links the northern and eastern regions besides linking the Orbital Road, which enables soccer fans to make visits to the stadium from the southern and western regions.

The Lusail Expressway project is one of the most important projects of the Ashghal’s highway programme. It is located in a vital area linking Doha with Lusail City as well as many other

“ASHGHAL HAS AWARDED SOME 75 PROJECTS WORTH QR12 BILLION FOR BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES INCLUDING DRAINAGE AND ALSO PUBLIC BUILDINGS SINCE THE BEGINNING OF 2018 AND THE VALUE OF SUCH PROJECTS IS EXPECTED TO TOUCH QR20 BILLION BY THE END OF THE YEAR.”

DR SAAD BIN AHMAD AL MUHANNADI PRESIDENT PUBLIC WORKS AUTHORITY (ASHGHAL)

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destinations.

The project also includes the implementation of the integrated six–km tunnels to accommodate electricity networks and water drainage systems that allow future maintenance without drilling, in addition to the construction of a subway tunnel underground that will pass under the water bridge.

Ashghal has also commenced the Al Wakra Main Road upgrade work, costing about QR 600 million, in May 2018. The road project that extends for nine km comes as part of Ashghal’s plan to complete works on the road network in the southern area of the country, following the recent openings of roads that serve the southern area such as G-Ring Road, the southern part of Doha Express Highway, Hamad Port Road and the Orbital Road which is being completed.

Upon completion of the project in the second quarter of 2020, Ashghal expects the upgraded nine–km road connecting Al Wakra to Doha via Airport Interchange (G–Ring Road), will enhance the travel experience of road users in the area.

BLOCKADE A BOON The use of locally manufactured material has

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increased by 65 percent, taking the total to 159 materials in one year of the blockade, the Ashghal president said.

Besides Qatari materials, Ashghal also increased the number of Qatari vendors by 63 percent to 131, and international materials by 21 percent to 953 and vendors by 19 percent to 764.

As confirmation of the quality of the local industry, all the pipes currently used in water and sanitation facilities are produced locally with high-quality specifications, he added.

The blockade, in fact, has worked as a catalyst to improve market competitiveness, both in terms of price and quality of goods, especially construction materials, the officials said. The opening of the market to new sources of supplies outside the GCC region has benefitted customers and suppliers.

According to a report in the local English daily The Peninsula, Manager at Ashghal’s Planning and Quality Department Jamal Sharida Al Kaabi said: “I believe that the blockade has worked in favour of Qatar as it has opened up new channels and new markets. Actually, some of the products now have reduced prices than before. And a lot of products are now available in more varieties at a wide range of prices.”

After the siege, Qatar started creating its own specifications and standards for products and materials to be used in various industries by looking at different sources and internal specifications, which created healthier competition.

Since Qatar’s only land route through Saudi Arabia was closed due to the stand-off, the opening of Hamad Port has eased the problem as direct shipping lines were opened with new suppliers. Ashghal also did not face any problem with material in the initial days of the trade boycott as it always maintained buffer stock to meet any emergency.

NEW PROJECTS Ashghal has also signed four contracts for road improvement projects costing QR59 million and another two for drainage projects worth more than QR620 million. These projects will be

launched in 2019 to qualify new contractors, and tenders worth QR50 million will be opened for local contractors.

Further, Ashghal has concluded five more contracts with Qatari companies for developing infrastructure facilities for 5,192 plots of land in different areas under the citizens’ residential scheme, and at least eight more new contracts for facilitating similar developments would be awarded before the end of the year.

NEW ROADS OPEN Ashghal has opened sections of Al Wakra Main Road and a strategic link road between Doha Expressway, the southern part of Doha Express Highway, E–Ring Road, F–Ring Road and G– Ring Road as well as most parts of Al Watiyyat Interchange on F–Ring Road, to coincide with Qatar National Day on December 18.

CORPORATE STRATEGY Ashghal has launched the New Corporate Strategy 2018-2022, as part of its new vision “Excellence in delivering and managing efficient sustainable infrastructure.” The initiative was kicked off in line with Qatar’s Second National Development Strategy 2018-2022, regarded as a step forward

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to transforming the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 into a tangible reality.

Ashghal has set 10 corporate objectives in the New Corporate Strategy to move in the direction set through the strategic themes in the coming years, including enhancement of its health and safety performance, ensuring on–time delivery, integrating new assets effectively, optimising and managing cost and improving quality management performance. They also include improved sustainability and recycling, increased Qatarisation and development of Ashghal’s staff, increased Qatari involvement in the authority’s supply chain, embedding leading practices across Ashghal and enhancing customer and stakeholder satisfaction.

With the new strategy, Ashghal will be more self-reliant since it has the required potential to manage, operate and maintain its assets efficiently and effectively. In an aim to provide a clear framework for defining the corporate objectives, four themes were also developed, representing the broad direction that Ashghal will follow in the coming years. They include compliance with health and safety standards, delivering excellence, developing capabilities and focusing on customers and stakeholders.

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DARWISH INTERSERVE: A PIONEER IN FACILITY AND SERVICES MANAGEMENT THE STATE OF QATAR IS WITNESSING THE LARGEST ECONOMIC AND URBAN GROWTH IN ITS MODERN HISTORY.

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any major projects including the construction of new cities and the development of infrastructure components are being implemented. To ensure sustainable development, it is extremely important to have companies like Darwish Interserve specializing in facility and services management and capable of dealing with such huge assets and giant projects.

Darwish Interserve, a facility and services management company, which started as a subsidiary of Hao United in 2010 based on an alliance between Al Darwish United and Interserve, a UK-based facility and services management company, has transferred its expertise through this alliance to the Qatari market.

“Our company has more than nine years of experience, in which it has taken serious steps to develop in line with market requirements,” said Mr Mohammed Sa'adeh, the General Manager of the company, who has a special passion for development and a strong commitment to quality rather than quantity. He added that ,“Our

“STAYING IN THE LEAD CAN BE MAINTAINED ONLY BY KEEPING UP WITH THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS, HAVING NEW AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS, AND ALWAYS EXCEEDING THE EXPECTATIONS OF CLIENTS, WHOSE SATISFACTION IS CRITICAL TO SUCCESS.”

MOHAMED SA'ADEH GENERAL MANAGER DARWISH INTERSERVE

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company derives its capabilities and strength from its 1.200 strong workforce comprising engineers, administrators, and specialized technical labour.”

Darwish Interserve works to apply the best and universally acknowledged and accepted practices and latest technologies. Such practices and technologies include: -SFG20, the optimum maintenance standard of buildings adopted by the British Building Engineering Services Association.

-Compliance with the global hygiene standards, which won the company the accreditation and membership of the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc).

-Managing the services through advanced information systems (CAFM system), which schedules and monitors the work according to specific timetables and allows customers to follow the progress of work in their buildings.

-A help desk, which handles urgent and routine customer requests efficiently and quickly, 24/7.

-Membership in the Middle East Facility Management Association (MEFMA).

-Winning the ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS

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18001 certifications.

Darwish Interserve is one of the most specialized companies in providing various types of services to the public and private sector in Qatar through a team of highly qualified, experienced and professional cadres specializing in the field of facility and services management and operation and maintenance works. The company uses the most advanced technologies to provide comprehensive, sustainable and cost-efficient facility and services management solutions in line with the best international practices observed in the field of health, safety and environment (HSE).

Its services include: -All mechanical, electrical and sanitary maintenance works -Maintenance of cooling, ventilation and heating devices -Maintenance of fire alarm systems -Cleaning, hospitality and reception services -Supply of specialized and trained manpower -Management of guard and security services -Control of pests and insects -Waste management -Design and maintenance of gardens -Management of all specialized and technical services “The company's management of utility services is based on scientific principles and practices that ensure the best results in maintenance and all other respects with regard to the buildings of our current and future clients, and guarantee the efficiency of their operation and usage throughout their lifetimes at the lowest cost,” Mr Sa'adeh said.

This is the practice that the company is adopting in such a conscientious way that won it the confidence of its wide-ranging clientele, the most prominent of which include: -The Department of Integrated Services at the Ministry of Education, with 25% of the school sector in the State of Qatar -Doha Festival City -Alshaya Group, with 244 shops and restaurants spread throughout all commercial complexes -Hamad International Airport -Ooredoo company, with all of its branches -The British Embassy -Darwish Tower on Pearl Island -Doha College, Al Wa'ab and the West Bay campuses -The three branches of Compass International School -The two branches of GEMS International School -Qatar National Convention Centre -Qatar Museums Authority – Qatar National Theatre CARING FOR SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES In line with the orientations of the Qatari government, Darwish Interserve places the preservation of the environment high on its strategic priorities. “We aim to be an active part of Qatar Vision 2030 by providing a sustainability plan and managing energy conservation so that we can add a positive touch to the lives of our customers and employees and to the communities in which we are operating. This plan, which is deep-rooted

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throughout our work, shall help us achieve our vision of rationalizing the consumption of our valuable energy resources, guiding our actions and structuring our operations. Darwish Interserve for facility management is keen to serve the best interests of its customers and make their aspirations and interests as one of its foremost concerns. From this perspective it carries out its work according to the latest technological systems to provide a complete package in the management of facilities and services, including: -Facilities and administrative buildings such as ministries and government agencies -Banks and financial institutions -Hospitals and medical centres -Educational facilities such as universities, institutes and schools -Entertainment and commercial centres and major markets -Conferences and exhibitions centres -Towers and residential compounds in new cities -Airport facilities and services -Museums, cultural centres, hotels and resorts -Sports facilities such as clubs, stadiums and gymnasiums Over the course of ten years of work in this sector, the company has established its expertise and helped Qatar to reach its full potential for modernity. Darwish Interserve continues to seek improvements and focus on its future goals. Sa'adeh shared with us an overview about the company's practices which are vital to its success.

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MAKING RAPID PROGRESS WITH LESS THAN FOUR YEARS TO GO FOR QATAR TO HOST THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP, THE ORGANISERS ARE MAKING ALL EFFORTS TO COMPLETE THE STADIUMS AS WELL AS OTHER ARRANGEMENTS TO MAKE THE EVENT A GRAND SUCCESS.

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ith one stadium fully redeveloped and seven others under various stages of construction, all the infrastructure projects are set to be completed before the tournament begins on 21 November 2022, officials of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), who have been tasked with the responsibility of putting everything in place by that time, said. Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) officials have been visiting Qatar on a regular basis to know the progress being made with regard to the preparations and have expressed satisfaction at the pace of the works.

Qatar has already launched its first tournamentready venue, Khalifa International Stadium, in May 2017, more than five years before kick-off, and the other venues, including the 80,000-capacity Lusail Stadium which will host the opening match and final in 2022, will all be completed by 2020.

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who visited Qatar in October 2018 on a whistle-stop tour of the country appreciated the progress and described

“THE FIRST LESSON IS HOW 1.5 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED RUSSIA TO ENJOY THE WORLD CUP AND THEY WERE ALL WELCOMED IN A WAY THAT WAS UNEXPECTED. THERE WERE MANY FEARS ABOUT RUSSIA, BUT IT TURNED OUT TO BE A SAFE WORLD CUP, IN A COUNTRY THAT MADE FANS FEEL GOOD. THE WHOLE POPULATION CONTRIBUTED TO THAT AND I AM SURE IT WILL BE REPEATED IN QATAR IN 2022. THE RUSSIAN WORLD CUP WAS THE BEST EVER, AND THE WORLD CUP IN 2022 IN QATAR HAS TO BE EVEN BETTER.”

GIANNI INFANTINO

PRESIDENT OF FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (FIFA)

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the 2022 FIFA World Cup as a unique opportunity for football fans to experience a new culture and region. Infantino visited Al Wakrah Stadium, a 40,000 capacity venue which will host matches up to the quarter-finals stage in 2022, before having an aerial view of the other seven proposed tournament venues, and said the Al Wakrah stadium was very impressive. “It is imposing as one sees the progress which is being made here four years before kick-off, he said.”

Infantino said Qatar's tournament had massive potential to break down cultural stereotypes and bring people together through football. “I think this World Cup is extremely important, not only for Qatar but for the whole region that has a passion for football and is investing a lot in the game,” he said.

“This World Cup is a unique opportunity — a chance to show the world what this region can offer not only for football but also for anybody in the world to come and visit a beautiful place, learn about a new culture and meet new people. In this world, especially in the current climate, it is very much needed that we open our doors and discover new places,” he said.

The FIFA president was of the view that one can learn many lessons from Russia which succesfully

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hosted the World Cup in 2018.

“The first lesson is how 1.5 million people visited Russia to enjoy the World Cup and they were all welcomed in a way that was unexpected. There were many fears about Russia, but it turned out to be a safe World Cup, in a country that made fans feel good. The whole population contributed to that and I am sure it will be repeated in Qatar in 2022. The Russian World Cup was the best ever, and the World Cup in 2022 has to be even better.”

Speaking to FIFATV, Infantino said: "I think that all the ingredients are there to make the World Cup in 2022 an unforgettable event. The only message I can really give to everyone in the world who loves football is come to Qatar, come to the Middle East, to the Gulf, in 2022, and enjoy the best World Cup ever.”

AN EVERLASTING LEGACY Secretary General of the SC Hassan Al Thawadi said the event has the potential to positively change the destiny of Qatar and the region as it is not just about 28 days of football but rather about leaving a lasting legacy to benefit future generations.

In an interview with BeIN Sports to mark the “four years to go” countdown to the tournament, Al Thawadi said this was not a tournament just to

“THIS EVENT IS A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY FOR THE REGION — A REGION THAT IS ABSOLUTELY CRAZY ABOUT THE SPORT. THE PEOPLE OF THIS REGION LIVE, DRINK AND BREATHE FOOTBALL. IT IS THE ONE COMMON DENOMINATOR.”

HE HASSAN AL THAWADI SECRETARY GENERAL SUPREME COMMITTEE FOR DELIVERY & LEGACY

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bring people over, celebrate football and leave.

If you truly understand what this does for you, for a nation; it changes lives. It can change history. It can change perceptions, economies, societies and industries.

“This event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the region — a region that is absolutely crazy about the sport. The people of this region live, drink and breathe football. It’s the one common denominator,” he said.

Regarding the illegal blockade, he said accessibility was a concern because, since implementing the boycott, many neighbouring countries have prevented their citizens from travelling to Qatar — a rule the Qatar has not reciprocated, with its borders remaining open to all.

“We hope the political situation will change by 2022,” he said and reiterated the positive sentiment in relation to the tournament across the region, including citizens of blockading countries. “From day one, our goal and our aim was that this is not a Qatari bid. This was an Arab, Middle–Eastern bid — first and foremost,” he explained. When the Supreme Committee recently opened up its volunteer programme to enable people to register, some 250,000 people have signed up including those from the blockading nations. “Since people

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AL WAKRAH STADIUM

AL RAYYAN STADIUM

Capacity: 40,000 - Designer: Ramboll Al Rayyan Stadium will showcase the very best of Qatari culture as it hosts matches up to the quarter-finals stage of Qatar 2022. The outer façade will be made up of intricate patterns representing Qatar. Al Rayyan’s desert landscapes will be reflected on the façade – and in the dune-shaped hospitality areas and merchandise stalls dotted around the stadium complex.

Capacity: 40,000 - Design inspired by: Dame Zaha Hadid Inspired by the late British-Iraqi architect Dame Zaha Hadid, Al Wakrah Stadium will host matches up to the quarter-finals stage during Qatar 2022. The design is inspired by the sails of traditional dhow boats — in tribute to Al Wakrah’s seafaring past. An innovative cooling system and retractable roof mean the stadium will be used all year round.

RAS ABU ABOUD STADIUM

EDUCATION CITY STADIUM

Capacity: 40,000 - Designer: FIA Fenwick Iribarren Architects Education City Stadium is located at the heart of Qatar Foundation – a vibrant centre for knowledge and innovation where this ultra–modern arena will be a fitting addition and lasting symbol of sustainability. The stadium will host matches up to the quarter-finals stage in 2022 and eventually become the home of the Qatar Women’s team.

Capacity: 40,000 - Designer: FIA Fenwick Iribarren Architects Ras Abu Aboud Stadium will be the first fully demountable and re-usable tournament venue in FIFA World Cup history. Overlooking the stunning Doha Corniche and West Bay skyline, the stadium will host matches up to the quarter-finals stage in 2022.

AL THUMAMA STADIUM

LUSAIL STADIUM

Capacity: 40,000 - Designer: Arab Engineering Bureau The design of Al Thumama Stadium is inspired by the “gahfiya”, a traditional woven cap worn for centuries by men. It is designed by Qatari architect Ibrahim Al Jaidah.

Capacity: 80,000 - Designer: Foster + Partners Lusail Stadium will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, opening game and matches throughout the tournament.

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KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM

AL BAYT STADIUM – AL KHOR CITY

Capacity: 40,000 Khalifa International Stadium was the first 2022 FIFA World Cup stadium to open in May 2017 when it hosted the Amir Cup final in front of more than 40,000 fans.

Located in Aspire Zone, the historic venue has previously hosted the Asian Games, the Gulf Cup and the AFC Asian Cup. Next year it will host the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championships.

Capacity: 60,000 - Designer: Dar Al Handasah A remarkable sight will welcome fans to Al Bayt Stadium – Al Khor City, which is being delivered by Aspire Zone Foundation. The arena, designed to represent Arab hospitality, will host matches through to the semi-finals stage in 2022 and will be covered by a structure resembling a traditional Arab tent known as “bayt al sha’ar”, complete with a state-of-the-art retractable roof.

from the region are keen to celebrate the event, we will welcome them with open arms, ” he said.

LUSAIL’S DESIGN REVEALED The SC revealed the design for Lusail Stadium, the venue at which the opening and final games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar will take place. The 80,000-capacity venue will be the largest stadium during the tournament, which is being held for the first time in the Arab world.

Located 15 km north of central Doha, Lusail Stadium will form the centerpiece of the new ultramodern Lusail City, the construction of which is 90 percent completed.

Renowned British firm Foster + Partners provided the design concept for the stadium. The venue’s golden vessel takes its inspiration from an Arab architectural sense as much as it does from literal symbolism by celebrating the region’s ancient tradition of craftsmanship. The design features “fanar” lanterns and intricately detailed bowls that have been created for centuries in the region.

This is the eighth stadium design to be unveiled by the SC and Khalifa International Stadium became the first tournament-ready venue in 2017, while two

“I PARTICULARLY ENJOY THE FACT THAT MIDDLE–EASTERN CULTURE IS REFLECTED IN LUSAIL’S AND SEVERAL OTHER DESIGNS, AND LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING FOOTBALL FANS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD DISCOVER THE CULTURE AND HISTORY OF THE REGION.”

FATMA SAMBA DIOUF SAMOURA

SECRETARY GENERAL FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (FIFA)

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more stadiums – Al Wakrah Stadium and Al Bayt Stadium — slated for completion early in 2019.

Commenting on the design launch, Al Thawadi said that the stunning design of the showpiece stadium is a nod to Qatar’s past and a symbol of an exciting future.

“We hope that one day, future generations look at Lusail Stadium as a source of inspiration, perseverance and innovation that enabled the transformation of Lusail into the modern city it is,” he said. FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura said that Qatar’s stadiums were among the most eye-catching ever seen and the venue proposed for the final was absolutely gorgeous. “I particularly enjoy the fact that Middle–Eastern culture is reflected in Lusail’s and several other designs, and look forward to seeing football fans from all over the world discover the culture and history of the region.”

After the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Lusail Stadium will be transformed into a community space, including schools, shops, cafés, sports facilities and health clinics. This multipurpose community hub will allow people to find everything they need under one roof – the original roof of the football stadium.

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BUILDING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE AL DARWISH ENGINEERING W.L.L., SINCE ITS ESTABLISHMENT IN 1950, HAS ALWAYS BEEN A LEADING CONTRACTING COMPANY AND A KEY CONTRIBUTOR TO THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, WITH PRESTIGIOUS LANDMARK PROJECTS IN THE STATE OF QATAR.

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eing a Class ‘A’ classified Contracting Company in all trades of Building & Civil Engineering, Roads and Infrastructure, plus Water & Sewerage distribution networks, we take pride in selecting highly qualified teams with the right combination of knowledge and expertise in collaborative working, supply chain management and LEAN construction techniques. Additionally, we are continuously improving our delivery through performance measurement and benchmarking to meet the demanding and ever-changing needs of our clients. We are approaching our eighth decade in the construction industry and are fortunate that during these years we have remained committed and dedicated to realize the company vision of ‘Building a Legacy of Excellence’. By respecting our core values, we strive to provide our clients with quality services and products, exceeding their expectations in the way we deliver, maintaining a high standard of safety and achieving our objectives in a timely manner, all while respecting the environment and the communities we serve.

The construction industry has undergone many changes that require us to adapt and develop our business to meet these changes. Changes in such

areas as technology, economics and education are the drivers that guide our business to stay at the forefront of innovation.The management systems for quality, health & safety and environmental are integrated and our IMS is implemented by all departments of Al Darwish Engineering assuring compliance with all the necessary best practice benchmarks and industry regulations.

The company adopted sustainable construction practices to suit specific environment concerns. Al

DR. FAHD BAKOUR

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF AL DARWISH ENGINEERING

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Darwish Engineering is certified ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001.Al Darwish employs a permanent Task Force exceeding four thousand, comprising of highly skilled and unskilled categories, well guided and supervised by a selected team of qualified and experienced Engineers/Technical professionals committed to accomplish organizational and operational goals. It owns a large fleet of Plant and Equipment exceeding nine hundred fifty in numbers and a full-fledged machinery and workshop division for regular upkeep and maintenance. The company has two Asphalt Plants of 300 tons/hour and 160 tons/hour to cater for road works and a Pre-cast Plant which has a concrete Batching Plant that supplements the requirement for ready-mix concrete and for the manufacture of the precast elements. Our state-of-the-art Carpentry and Joinery Division caters for woodwork and fit out works to ensure timely and successful completion of all projects. Al Darwish Engineering also owns a well-equipped Testing Laboratory. The Laboratory employs well qualified & experienced Engineers and Technicians. The testing facilities are certified but not limited for the testing of concrete, asphalt and soils. Al Darwish Engineering has the required capabilities to design, build, operate and manage turnkey projects of any size.Our in-house

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expertise in value engineering, life cycle cost analysis, material and equipment selection, project planning and controls, lean Six Sigma, plus modern delivery processes, ensures maximum consistency between the design and construction stages and offers various advantages to our clients, as we deliver our projects on time and within budget, exceeding clients and consultants expectations, adding value for all the stakeholders, ensuring repeated business and sustainable growth.

PROJECT CATEGORIES -Infrastructure -Roads, bridges and utilities -Earthworks -Metro Rail -Airports -Onshore Marine Services -High Rise Towers

-Residential and Commercial Buildings -Entertainment / Cinema Complex, Commercial Complex and Shopping Malls -Hotels and Resorts -Hospitals and Medical Centers -Interiors and Fit out Auditoriums and Amphitheaters, Stadiums, Recreation, Sport Complexes -Defense Projects -Educational Institutions -Conservation Projects -Heritage Construction -Palaces / Villas -Telecommunication Projects -Sub-Stations / Cooling Plant Buildings -Horse Stables, Shooting Ranges -Industrial Projects -Refurbishment, Maintenance and Restoration

NOTABLE PROJECTS Educational 2009 Construction of ten (10) Kindergarten in Doha and the surrounding villages 2012 Construction of nine (9) Kindergarten in Doha and the surrounding villages 2012 Construction of three (3) Senior Secondary Schools 2014 Construction of ten (10) Kindergarten in Doha and the surrounding villages Hospital 2002 Al Khoor development project – Medical Centre Infrastructure 2006 Qatar Primary roads & Infrastructure 2012 Al Waab City Public Routes, North Roads Project 2018 Access Roads to Al Wakrah logistics City

2019 Grading & Temporary roads for Birkit Al Awamer

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DEVELOPING THE STRATEGIC INVENTORY QATAR GENERAL ELECTRICITY AND WATER CORPORATION (KAHRAMAA) CONFIRMED THAT 2018 WITNESSED QUALITATIVE ACHIEVEMENTS DESPITE THE CONTINUATION OF THE UNJUST BLOCKADE IMPOSED ON QATAR AND THE UNPRECEDENTED INCREASE IN DEMAND FOR ELECTRICITY AND WATER IN ALL SECTORS IN THE COUNTRY.

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owever, KAHRAMAA has still succeeded throughout the year in making remarkable progress in the electricity and water sectors at all levels. The company has achieved multiple successes in terms of upgrading its networks, strategic water reserves and management system, and providing quality services to its customers while maintaining the highest standards of health, safety and environment.

During 2018, KAHRAMAA launched several initiatives and won a number of awards. KAHRAMAA has succeeded in moving ahead with the implementation of strategic and vital projects and completing them according to the schedule and highest–quality standards, clearly overcoming the blockade.

MEGA STRATEGIC WATER RESERVOIRS The water sector witnessed an extraordinary achievement in 2018 when His Highness The Amir

"EIGHTY-FIVE PERCENT OF THE PROJECTS RELATED TO THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP HAS BEEN COMPLETED. KAHRAMAA IS BUILDING FIVE STATIONS FOR THE STADIUMS OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP AT A COST OF QR 800 MILLION, AND MORE THAN 80% OF THE PROJECT HAS BEEN COMPLETED."

HE ENG. ISSA BIN HILAL AL KUWARI CHAIRMAN OF QATAR GENERAL ELECTRICITY & WATER CORPORATION (KAHRAMAA)

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Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani inaugurated in December the Strategic Water Reservoirs Project, the backbone of the country's water security. The project incorporates 15 reservoirs, the largest in the world with a capacity of 100 million gallons per tank and distributed across five strategic locations in Umm Al Baraka, Umm Slal, Rawdat Rashed, Abu Nakhla and Al Thamma. These were connected to desalination plants in the north and south with large diameter pipelines, with great operational flexibility to face all emergencies.

KAHRAMAA launched the first phase of the project in the first half of 2018 with the experimental operation of a number of reservoirs.

This project is an embodiment of His Highness’ vision of achieving water security in Qatar. It adds 1,500 million gallons of water, equivalent to 155 percent of the estimated existing storage capacity of 900 million gallons, which is expected to meet the required storage requirement until 2026.

KAHRAMAA has developed plans to expand the

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project to include 40 reservoirs with a capacity of about 4,000 million gallons to meet the country’s requirements for water until 2036.

HE Eng. Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari, president of KAHRAMAA confirmed that 85 percent of the projects related to the 2022 FIFA World Cup has been completed. With this, KAHRAMAA is building five stations for the stadiums of the championship at a cost of QR 800 million.

In addition, KAHRAMAA is committed to implement five at a cost of QR900 million for Doha Metro projects, and more than 85 percent of the project has been completed.

ELECTRICITY SECTOR Performance indicators of the electricity network in Qatar are the best in the Arab countries and the world in terms of reliability, keeping pace with urban development and providing an attractive investment infrastructure.

The year 2018 saw the completion of all phases of the Umm Al Hool project, which provides 2,520 MW of electricity and 136 million gallons of water, raising Qatar's production capacity of electricity by about 30 percent and of water by about 40 percent which contributes to meeting the requirements of the economic and urban development.

During 2018, KAHRAMAA upgraded the efficiency of the multi-voltage electrical transmission network through the implementation of the maintenance plan for the components of the network including substations, ground cables and overhead lines, which has led to continued supply and prevented cut–offs.

Technical performance indicators of electricity transmission and distribution networks were also high during 2018.

Despite the large number of subscribers, the expansion of the overall electrical network and the noticeable increase in the number of components of the distribution network, including stations, cable networks and overhead lines, the overall performance indicators of the network have considerably improved, with much less frequency and duration of cut–offs and network technical breakdowns.

SUPPORTING LOCAL PRODUCERS In 2018, KAHRAMAA signed two QR1.9 billion contracts for the provision, on an as-needed basis, of power cables with Doha Cables Company and Qatar International Cables Company for two years, in addition to more than 153 contracts for the supply of various materials by local companies and industries which are given precedence in the contracts of infrastructure project to participate in the urban expansion witnessed by the country as well as other new projects.

Local companies achieved self-sufficiency and became able to meet the market’s demand for high–quality low and medium pressure cables in light of the expansion of projects and resulting and continued requirement for cables.

KAHRAMAA completed over 80% of the nearly QR800 million worth of substations for the World Cup stadiums by commissioning three substations in 2018.

ESTABLISHING THE FIRST SOLAR POWER STATION KAHRAMAA announced in 2018 its project to establish the first major solar power plant to produce electricity using photovoltaic technology, and the completion of the developers’ qualification

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process. The total production capacity of the solar power station is estimated to be at least 700 MW, 350 MW of which will be connected to the grid as a first stage before the end of 2020 to achieve the strategic objective specified in the National Development Strategy 2018-2022 with regard to this sector.

THE BEGINNING OF THE SECOND PHASE OF TARSHEED PROGRAMME The year 2018 witnessed the beginning of the second phase of the National Program for Conservation and Energy Efficiency, code-named Tarsheed, to achieve a number of objectives until 2022, according to the 2nd National Development Strategy 2018-2022 that aims to work on reducing the per capita consumption of electricity by eight percent, water by 15 percent and harmful carbon emissions by seven percent, to improve and observe the regulations and specifications of all devices and electrical and water connections. This can be achieved through the adoption of a strategy that takes into account modern technologies, reviewing tariffs of each sector, developing and reviewing relevant laws and disseminating the culture of awareness through KAHRAMAA Awareness Park, which has received more than 50,000 visitors since it was opened last year.

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INTEGRATED SYSTEM OF SOLUTIONS DURING 2018, QATAR RAILWAYS COMPANY (QATAR RAIL) DEVELOPED A SERIES OF PLANS AND PROGRAMMES AIMED AT ACCELERATING THE IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS AND ENSURING DELIVERY OF IMPLEMENTED PROJECTS ACCORDING TO SCHEDULES AND BUDGETS.

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he company has a successful network of transport solutions in Qatar through its mega projects, especially the Doha Metro project, which includes a mostly underground sophisticated railway network that connects communities within and around the capital Doha, in addition to the Lusail Tram Project, which includes a convenient and comfortable tram network within the new city of Lusail.

The design also focuses on enhancing pedestrian traffic safety and a healthy lifestyle by establishing a total of 13 kilometres of separate pedestrian and bicycle paths, as well as a large number of service roadways to connect different destinations to the highway.

With the support of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Qatar Rail was able to achieve high levels of delivery in various projects. It surpassed the targets set in this year's plan as part of its efforts to implement state programmes aimed at providing and guaranteeing new, sustainable and efficient means of transport within a single integrated system that allows passengers to easily move around the country.

The number of employees working on Qatar Rail’s projects reached 85 thousand in 2018,

increasing by 35 thousand or 70% from last year, and the total working hours on the project were

“ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES OF THE DOHA METRO PROJECT IS TO PROVIDE A WIDE COVERAGE NETWORK CONNECTING DIFFERENT CITIES, ESPECIALLY DURING HOSTING THE WORLD CUP.”

HE ENG ABDULLA BIN ABDULAZIZ BIN TURKI AL SUBAIE MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CEO QATAR RAIL

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over 570 million hours.

Qatar Rail recorded an accident frequency rate of 0.22 on the Doha Metro project, which is probably one of the lowest in this type of mega project, thanks to the adoption of a strict health and safety system and the dedication of the efforts of managers of the project to train, educate and supervise the workforce.

His Excellency Abdullah Abdul Aziz Turki AlSubaie, Qatar Rail's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said: "One of the most important goals of the Doha Metro is to provide a rapid transport network with widespread coverage between cities, especially when Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup 2022. The increase in the number of trains serving the Doha Metro project will undoubtedly boost the network's capacity and decrease time spent between trips. Moreover, providing a comprehensive and seamless transport experience for visitors and crowds during this mega event. In addition, this strategic move will contribute to the achievement of the project's longterm goals represented in the expansion of the current lines to reach farther areas."

The participation ratio of local companies in Qatar Rail projects was 80%. A total of 1,998 subcontracts, 84% of all subcontracts, were

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awarded to Qatari companies.

The company opened the door for registration for occupancy of the Green Line shops after the success of the offer to occupy the Red Line shops made in the last quarter of the last year, where 100% occupancy was achieved. Qatar Rail renewed its endorsement for three years of the ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and OHSAS 14001:2007 certifications in the fields of quality management, environmental management, and occupational health and safety assessment, respectively.

Qatar Rail won the Green Company Award at Qatar Sustainability Week 2018, organized by Qatar Green Building Council, and Doha Metro was awarded the Design Excellence Award by the German Design Council on the sidelines of the company's participation in the Unitrans International Exhibition last September.

OFFERING COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR LEASE IN THE GREEN LINE Qatar Rail announced the completion of the first of 28 trains of the Lusail Tram project and the completion of the "factory acceptance testing" at the Alstom plant in La Rochelle, France. The train arrived in Hamad Port in Doha on 12 March 2018 after a journey of nearly 18 days after it was released

from the plant of the French company.

On October 4, Qatar Rail signed two agreements for the Doha Metro project: one with Kinki Sharyo Company for the purchase of 35 additional trains, to bring the total number of trains to 110, and another with Mowasalt Company (Karwa) to transport metro passengers to and from the metro stations by the taxis of the company at special rates.

According to the latest data released by Qatar Rail, the current completion rate of the Doha Metro project is about 94%. According to the schedule, civil works have been completed at the stations, while the electromechanical and architectural finishes have been completed at the 37 stations, while testing and commissioning operations of mechanical and electrical systems and equipment such as air-conditioning, ventilation, pumps and fire fighting systems are underway.

To date, the company has received 53 trains from Kinki Sharyo factories in Osaka, Japan, out of a total of 110 trains to serve the Doha Metro project. The trains, which have arrived in Doha, will be tested to ensure compliance with the highest safety standards in preparation for the operational phase ahead of the opening of the first phase of the project in 2020 according to schedule.

On 22 April 2018, Qatar Rail concluded the first

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agreement with Qatar Insurance Company to name the stations, as the rights of naming the stations is one aspect of the strategy, through which it is seeking to build partnerships with companies and prominent local and international brands to promote its services in the stations and widen their opportunity to reach a wider base of clientele in the targeted segments of the market.

Under the agreement, Qatar Insurance Group won the rights to name the West Bay station in coordination and partnership with Qatar Rail.

Qatar Rail also signed a banking agreement for the tickets of Doha Metro and Lusail Tram with QNB, under which QNB becomes a strategic partner for all smart banking card payments and instant collection systems. The agreement allows Qatar Rail to receive payments made with credit cards issued in Qatar and abroad, enables metro passengers to pay at the terminals through smart card self-service systems, or its website, mobile phone application, and facilitates the purchase and top-up of smart and temporary cards.

DOHA METRO – THE LEGACY AND CULTURE OF QATAR The design of the Doha Metro trains, which one manufactured by Kinki Sharyo Ltd. in Osaka, Japan,

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embodies the heritage and culture of the Qatari society and blends them with modern technology.

With a speed of 100 km/h, Doha Metro driverless trains are some of the fastest in the world and the region. Doha Metro will have 110 trains, each consisting of three vehicles: one divided between gold class and family class, and two standard. The gold has 16 seats, the family 26 seats, while the two standards have 88 seats. The metro network is being built in two phases. The first includes the construction of three out of four lines (Red, Gold and Green) with 37 stations. The largest station in Msheireb will be at the heart of the metro network and will form the point of convergence between the three lines. The operation of these lines is expected to start in 2020. Future phases include the introduction of an additional line (Blue) and the expansion of existing lines with more than 60 additional stations. The first expansion phase is scheduled to be completed by 2026.

RECEIVING FIVE TRAINS FOR LUSAIL TRAM The current completion ratio of light transport trains of Lusail Tram is about 87%, with the progress of the programme works according to the specified timetable and the reception of five trains

from the total of 28 ordered for the project.

On January 25, Qatar Rail announced the completion of the manufacture in France of the first train for the Lusail Tram project, and the factory acceptance testing was conducted at the Alstom plant in the French city of La Rochelle.

Alstom is manufacturing 28 Citadis trains and power supply equipment, as well as signals and railtrack works for Lusail Tram, which will provide a high level of comfort for passengers, especially since they are designed to withstand difficult weather conditions.

On 12 March, Qatar Rail received the first train of Lusail Tram following its arrival in Hamad port after a journey of 18 days, starting from the Alstom factory in La Rochelle and calling on Barcelona.

Lusail Tram is connected to Doha Metro through the two exchange stations of Lusail and Leqtaifia to make it easy for passengers to move between these two networks.

Lusail Tram, which is expected to be inaugurated in 2020, covers 21 kilometres. This network is planned to include four lines and 28 stations of various designs on and below ground levels.

The tram systems are environmentally friendly.

They can handle traffic barriers better than buses

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do, and a single tram can obviate the use of 40 vehicles that also occupy more road space.

In order to enhance the travel experience on board Lusail Tram trains, the company signed an agreement with Ooredoo on 22 April to provide high-quality and uninterrupted telecommunications services for tram users while traveling by train and at the stations through the technical solutions that Ooredoo provides in this field. The 60 km/h Lusail Tram has 28 trains, each with five vehicles divided into two classes: family, with 24 seats (16 fixed and eight folding seats) and standard, with 40 seats (32 fixed and eight folding seats), bringing the total number of seats to 64.

Each vehicle includes an area for wheelchair users and internal display screens that show trip details and entertainment materials. There are also external display screens on the front, back and sides of the train to help travelers to know the next stop. Lusail Tram trains are inspired by the shape of the dhow (traditional Qatari sailboat), which was used in the past in pearl fishing. The design concept focuses on the sea represented by pearl fishing using the dhow, from which to draw the elements of stillness, calmness and sophistication.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN NASSER BIN KHALIFA AL THANI PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF THE INTERIOR

PROGRESS 2018-2019 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

QATAR ON THE THRESHOLD OF A HUGE DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN SEPTEMBER 2013, THE E-GOVERNMENT STEERING COMMITTEE, BASED AT THE HEADQUARTERS OF THE MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS, HAS URGED ALL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES TO DEVELOP AND SUPERVISE DIGITAL SERVICE PLANS IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE THE QATAR GOVERNMENT'S 2020 DIGITAL STRATEGY OBJECTIVES.

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he ministry is continuing to work closely with 38 government agencies to develop and implement their digital service plans, which include digital services to be launched on the Internet or on mobile phone applications. The number of such services exceeds 2,500, including over 700 available on mobile phone applications.

HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, Minister of Transport and Communications, confirmed that the ministry continues to work on developing and improving transport and communication services in addition to upgrading the competence of the technological and IT infrastructure of the communication sector. HE Al Sulaiti added, in a statement to QNA on the occasion of Qatar National Day, that

the ministry will continue to build on previous achievements and make every effort to serve the country, support the march of development and comprehensive progress and achieve more development and prosperity for the Qatari people, as well as to showcase the achievements and remarkable successes that have contributed to Qatar's international standing as a model for comprehensive and sustainable development.

With regard to the services of the infrastructure and joint government applications, the efficiency of administrative operations at government agencies was raised by 85%. More than 100 government agencies were connected to the government network, the Internet was provided to more than 60 government agencies, about 30 government

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agencies joined the government data centre, and the number of government bodies using the government data centre increased to over 30.

According to HE Al Sulaiti, the value of the country's ICT market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.3% to reach $ 4.4 billion in 2021, up from 2017’s level of $ 3.9 billion. Institutions in the State of Qatar can obtain the required flexibility, innovation and competence offered by public cloud computing platforms. The cloud today is seen by decisionmakers in Qatar as a priority as far as business is concerned. However, institutions have also come to understand that reliance on public cloud services increases security risks and challenges to comply with legislation. In its third year now, the Cloud Security Summit provides an interactive platform to

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discuss how the region's institutions can maintain their security in the digital age.

PURPOSEFUL PROGRAMMES One of the most important programmes held during 2018 was the 5th Information Security Conference for the Financial Sector, which was inaugurated

by HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, and organized by Qatar Central Bank under the title "Securing Digital Assets". "The State of Qatar's adoption of digital technology to provide an international model for sustainable development makes e-security a strategic choice for the country in the financial sector. Thus ISFS represents a platform for exchanging expertise to create safe and stable financial incubators", HE Sheikh Nasser said. In cooperation with the information technology sector of the ministry, the government has implemented a number of important projects in this field, including the courts development project of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, the government project of financial systems management (Maliya), the building permits system transferred to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, the real estate registration and authentication system (SAK) and the patients’ portal. To facilitate access for all segments of the community including citizens, residents and visitors to government and information services in the State of Qatar, the ministry has launched "Hukoomi", the portal of the government of Qatar to serve as a single gateway for all government services. Regarding the cybersecurity sector, Qatar Computer Emergency Response Team (Q-CERT) was established in 2005 as one of the national entities working in the cybersecurity field. Since the establishment of Q-CERT, cybersecurity has witnessed major developments. An information security strategy has been developed and adopted in light of the ministry's deep awareness of the threats and challenges that Qatar is facing. Among the achievements of the threatmonitoring system from 2015 to the first quarter of 2018 is the processing of over 25 million threat information records. The cybersecurity team has had a successful year in which it participated in the development of the National Cybersecurity

18.07

18.07 billion dollars is the value of the cloud computing infrastructure market In the Middle East

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260 million dollars is the share of small-scale enterprises in the value of cloud computing adoption

7

The expected growth rate of the cloud computing market

In seven years, Qatar achieved its highest growth rate of digital infrastructure

28.7%

The growth rate in the Middle East in seven years Strategy and helped to orchestrate the functions and programmes of protecting vital infrastructure with the strategic goals and objectives of the country. In addition, the State of Qatar,

"THE STATE OF QATAR'S ADOPTION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY TO PROVIDE AN INTERNATIONAL MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT MAKES E-SECURITY A STRATEGIC CHOICE FOR THE COUNTRY IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR. IN THIS CONTEXT, THE INFORMATION SECURITY CONFERENCE FOR THE FINANCIAL SECTOR (ISFS) REPRESENTS A PLATFORM FOR SHARING EXPERIENCES TO CREATE SECURE AND STABLE FINANCIAL INCUBATORS."

HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN NASSER BIN KHALIFA AL THANI PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF THE INTERIOR STATE OF QATAR

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32.8%

2020

Will be the year of technological boom in the country

32.4% The increase in the adoption of cloud computing in the region represented by Q-CERT, and the United States of America have signed letters of intent in the field of cybersecurity and Qatari – American cooperation as part of several agreements and memorandums of understanding between Washington and Doha to strengthen dialogue and security cooperation within the framework of the Qatari American strategic dialogue which was launched towards the end of January 2018 in Washington D.C. DEVELOPING THE CLOUD COMPUTING MARKET The website Business Wire highlighted Qatar's efforts to develop the cloud computing market, which is more flexible and less expensive than traditional IT systems, and enables faster storage of more images and documents and facilitates the viewing of entertainment programmes on smart devices connected to the Internet. The site emphasized that this is taking place in Qatar through the implementation of comprehensive digital infrastructure projects over a period of nearly seven years, and gives the green light to provide totally electronically controlled government services in Qatar so as to simplify procedures for the users of services and benefit from the best characteristics of the digital age. It says on the website that "Qatar's cloud infrastructure market is expected to expand by a compound annual growth rate of 32.8% over a period of almost seven years from 2018 to 2025".

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GREAT TECHNOLOGICAL ACHIEVEMENT OOREDOO ENTERED THE NEW YEAR WITH PREPARATIONS AND A SERIOUS EFFORT TO CONTINUE THE COMPANY'S SUCCESSES AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF 2018.

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ince its establishment, Ooredoo has been keen to provide the best telecommunications and information technology services and bring the latest state-of-the-art communications technology to Qatar.

The Group's revenues amounted to QR 23 billion over the past year, supported by strong contributions from its key markets in Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq and Myanmar. Despite the fact that the general weakness of exchange rates in the new markets has adversely affected the company's results, the Group made a net profit of QR1.1billion and a pre-deduction profit margin of 41%, supported by digital growth and reduced costs.

Commenting on the results, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani, Chairman of Ooredoo, said: "Ooredoo maintains its global leadership in innovation in the telecommunications industry, and has been the first telecommunications operator in the world

"OOREDOO MAINTAINS ITS GLOBAL LEADERSHIP IN INNOVATION IN THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY, AND HAS BEEN THE FIRST TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR IN THE WORLD TO TEST A 5G SELF-CONTAINED, SELF-DRIVING FLYING TAXI CONNECTED TO THE G5 NETWORK."

HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN MOHAMMED BIN SAUD AL THANI, CHAIRMAN OF OOREDOO

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to test a 5G self-contained, self-driving flying taxi connected to a G5 network as part of our mission to support Qatar's vision with regard to digital transformation. G5 service, of which we have more than 80 network sites, has now become a reality in Qatar. We are continuing to enrich the digital life of our customers in the countries where we are operating, and I am pleased to say that our efforts during this period have been recognized and appreciated by international awards. Ookla has chosen our network as the fastest mobile telecommunications network in Qatar in 2018. In Oman, we have been awarded the Best National Network Operator and the Best Digital Content Developer by Telecoms World Middle East. In Iraq, we received the CARE Award for excellence in customer service. Because digital empowerment is the future, we remain committed to investing in providing new technologies to our customers, unleashing their competence and ambitions, and helping them succeed in the digital world. Fortysix percent of our revenues are now realized from

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data and digital business.

Revenues from traditional telecommunications services continue to be under pressure as a result of global and regional transformations in the telecommunications sector, and our financial results for the said period reflect those challenges.

However, I would like to express my pleasure in seeing a number of our companies grow well in their profits in a number of our key markets".

THE COMPANY'S MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS The company's most significant achievements — both local and global — were made in May 2018, when Ooredoo launched the world's first 5G commercial network.

This achievement was followed by the rapid installation of more than 85 5G communications towers in a number of areas in the capital city of Doha and testing the 5G network in desert areas along with the ongoing updating of existing networks. The first 5G home broadband device was tested, and the test results showed amazing speeds of the network.

In September 2018, the company organized a special event at The Pearl-Qatar residential and investment developmentproject in Doha, during which it tested the strength, capabilities and speeds of its 5G network when used along with a number of solutions and applications prepared for use in smart cities that will be available in Qatar in the future. The company has tested many of the world's most innovative and exciting technologies, such as the flying taxi, the 5G bus, the 5G boat, and the 8K virtual reality experience in one of the luxury boats. In the field of mobile communications, Ooredoo was the first telecommunications company in Qatar and one of the first in the region to launch the eSIM technology. The company offers its customers an easy and fast experience, and enables users to switch easily between several lines without having to change the traditional SIM card.

In November 2018, Ooredoo announced another significant milestone in its successful connection of fibre optic service to more than 400,000 homes in Qatar, which will strengthen Ooredoo's position as a leading telecommunications company and represent an important step in Qatar's quest to be one of the world's best telecommunications

companies. Ooredoo's fibre optic network offers customers a leading experience with advanced features such as high-speed Internet access of up to 10 Gbps – the highest fibre speeds worldwide, according to a report published by Arthur D. Little, the international management consulting firm, in the first quarter of 2018. The company also provides through its fibre optic network a highdefinition audio and entertainment content of 4K quality through Ooredoo TV service.

Arthur D. Little's report also notes that 99% of homes in Qatar have been covered by the fibre optic network, only matched worldwide by Singapore, Latvia and Lithuania, and two times as much coverage ratio compared to 2012. Eightyeight percent of homes in Qatar are connected to the fibre optic service, also the highest ratio in the world shared only by Singapore.

The company has provided innovative services to its corporate clients, as well as upgrading and developing a number of existing services, especially data services and services that contribute to the development and growth of Qatar's economy in general.

In October 2018, Ooredoo won the prestigious "Cloud Innovator of the Year" award from Dell EMC, the leading provider of cloud computing infrastructure and innovative business solutions, in recognition of Ooredoo's efforts to provide hybrid cloud solutions that help develop enterprise applications across the public and private cloud.

Dell EMC praised Ooredoo as the first telecommunications provider to provide Microsoft Azure Stack solutions to the hybrid cloud through Qatar Data Center. Ooredoo won the award after winning the Gold Partner status with Dell EMC. Under the partnership, Ooredoo will receive comprehensive training programmes and marketing resources that enable it to better serve the digital needs of its corporate clients.

During 2018, Ooredoo's partnership with Qatar Business Incubator Center continued through Al Manara Digital Incubator, a joint venture between Ooredoo and Qatar Business Incubator Center.

Through this incubator, Ooredoo has provided support and sponsorship to many business startups in Qatar.

Out of its keenness to show its appreciation for

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the loyalty of its customers, Ooredoo has added 28 new partners to its loyalty rewards programme, Nojoom. Currently, Nojoom's partners include more than 250 prominent brands in Qatar. The programme has launched several successful campaigns to encourage customers to collect and redeem Nojoom points during the year.

With regard to financial services for individuals and companies, Ooredoo's financial services programme has become one of the most popular services among customers. Ooredoo has enabled its customers to benefit from various electronic financial services and advantages, including mobile phone digital wallet, money transfer through mobile phones, wage disbursement through mobile money payroll service, and other features and services that are included in a mobile phone application. Ooredoo recently announced the payment of over QR 3 billion in wages through its financial services programme, which also works with many of the nation's leading exchange companies to provide customers with more options to send money internationally and at the best exchange rates. Ooredoo's financial services help customers save time and effort by using Ooredoo financial services application instead of waiting in long lines to send money. In terms of corporate social responsibility, the company continues to sponsor many health projects such as Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Center, Ooredoo Cancer Awareness Center and other initiatives.

Ooredoo has been keen to organize and support various sporting events in Qatar to raise awareness among members of the community of the importance of maintaining physical fitness and leading healthy lifestyles.

The most important event organized annually by the company in this field is the Ooredoo Doha Marathon, whose 2018 version saw the participation of a number of international athletes, most notably the global distance runner Mo Farah, the 2016 Olympic gold medalist.

The company is now ready to organize the Ooredoo Doha 2019 Marathon, which was launched on January 11, 2019 at Doha Corniche. The marathon is expected to feature a distinguished participation of contestants from different categories.

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VODAFONE: UNLIMITED POTENTIAL VODAFONE QATAR BRINGS UNLIMITED POTENTIAL TO ITS VENTURES IN BREAKING TECHNOLOGICAL BOUNDARIES, IN LINE WITH THE QATAR NATIONAL VISION 2030.

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odafone has made major strides in 2018 to become a fully converged telecommunications company in Qatar. Given all the innovations in digital products and services that it has contributed, the company constantly makes sure to align its achievements and efforts with the Qatar National Vision 2030. From uplifting start-up companies to launching its 5G network, Vodafone Qatar undoubtedly possesses an image of a leader in the market that has proven itself as a veteran in utilizing its potential to the maximum.

BUILDING BRIDGES Participating in the Arch Summit held in Luxembourg City, Vodafone Qatar supported three local start-ups in presenting their innovative ideas. The Arch Summit has been widely known to bridge together the corporate and start-up world that gives both parties equal opportunities to network and partner to drive innovation. The stage was built for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit where start-ups have the chance to be inspired by industry-leading speakers, compete to fund their business, network directly with corporate key decision makers and drive the

“WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT WE HAVE THE RIGHT STRATEGY IN PLACE TO SUCCEED AND ACCELERATE OUR COMPANY’S GROWTH IN 2019 AND BEYOND. WE WILL CONTINUE OUR STRONG COMMITMENT TO PIONEER DIGITAL INNOVATION IN QATAR AND TO BE A LEADING CONTRIBUTOR TO THE BOLD AND AMBITIOUS AIMS OF THE QATAR NATIONAL VISION 2030.”

HE SHEIKH HAMAD BIN ABDULLA BIN JASSIM AL-THANI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER VODAFONE QATAR

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change. In this year’s event, more than 170 startups from all over the world as well as thousands of executives and investors participated. Qatari technology start-up, SUBOL, showcased their business dedicated to employ innovation and engineering methodologies to develop products that can fulfil the needs of the local and global markets. SUBOL's flagship product is Samam®, the world’s first smart domestic LPG leakage detection and shut-off system. The local start-ups were all housed in Qatar Science and Technology’s (QSTP) Incubation Center. Not only does the company support small businesses and showcase them to the world, but Vodafone Qatar also announced the fibre connectivity that was made available at Hamad Port. True to its vision, the company still strives to make Qatar one of the most connected and technologically advanced countries in the world. With this initiative falling under the list of its most ambitious projects, the company also started providing entities in Hamad Port with world-class telecommunications services, including fixed and mobile. Together these will ensure that the Middle East’s largest port runs its operations as efficiently and effectively as possible. Vodafone Qatar said: “Hamad Port’s role in growing our country’s

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national economy is very significant and we are proud to support this. Using our understanding of the local market and drawing on the resources and expertise of Vodafone globally, we are committed to harnessing the power of technology needed to deliver Qatar’s ambitious vision for the future.”

5G NETWORK POTENTIAL In 2018, Vodafone Qatar has once again reached its peak in delivering potential for the country as it switched on its very first 5G network. In a special event put together for the occasion, Vodafone Qatar showed how 5G will completely transform telecommunications to a whole new level along with new applications such as remote patient healthcare and driverless cars, significantly enhancing how industries operate and much more.

Vodafone Qatar’s CEO Sheikh Hamad bin Abdulla bin Jassim Al Thani laid out the company’s vision for how 5G will accelerate Qatar’s journey towards becoming one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world.

The COO of Vodafone Qatar, Diego Camberos, also showcased a number of potential applications of 5G technology and explained how these will improve the lives of the country’s residents and support Qatar’s progress.Vodafone has achieved strong progress in building out its 5G network, after switching it on in August 2018. Vodafone has rolled out its 5G network in key locations across the country including Al Waab, Abu Hamour, Al Aziziya, Al Mamoura, Al Rayyan, Katara Cultural Village, Salwa Road, Souq Waqif and Umm Salal Muhummad. Immediately after its 5G launch, Vodafone Qatar also marked the connection of its first trial enterprise customer– Gulf Bridge International (GBI)—to its 5G network in QSTP. Ever since the usage of a Vodafone 5G router, GBI undoubtedly experienced broadband access at speeds that exceed 1 Gbps with a real-time and uninterrupted user experience. Finally, the company made its last hurrah for 2018 when the company received the spectrum licence to operate 5G commercially from the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), which replaced the trial licence that allowed the company to conduct 5G trials to date.

ESIM IN QATAR Vodafone Qatar’s exercise in maximizing its potential did not end with the launch of the 5G network. The company has also taken the initiative and pioneered the adoption of eSIM that eventually made it one of the first operators in the region to provide this technology, working closely with vendors to activate it. An eSIM is an electronic SIM card embedded inside a compatible device. There are no physical SIM cards involved and no physical swapping over required by the user. There are several benefits of eSIM such as making it easier to switch networks, or switch between personal and business numbers. Because of this, eSIMs also have the ability to be connected with more devices simply because they don't require much space inside a device.

The Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Qatar stated: “Vodafone Qatar has a rich history of bringing leading innovations and technology to the country and launching eSIM is a continuation of this. We see many advantages in this new technology and our customers in Qatar will be some of the first globally to benefit from it.”

On his part, the Executive Director and Managing Director of GBI, Mr. Abdulla Al Rwaili also said: "We are proud to have been the first company to experience the power of Vodafone's 5G network and now look forward to benefit from it commercially to enhance our operations. We congratulate Vodafone on officially receiving its 5G license and extend our full support in the journey to accelerate the country towards becoming one of the most technologically advanced in the world."

FINANCIAL GROWTH Vodafone Qatar ended 2018 with strong financial results due to the massive growth of its Postpaid subscribers and fixed services, as well as its effective cost optimisation programme. Total revenue returned to year-on-year growth for the

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first time in four years, increasing by 5.1% year-onyear to reach QR 2,101 million for the year ended 31 December 2018 driven by growth in Postpaid, fixed and handset revenue. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) for the reported period stood at QR 584 million, representing an increase of 8.5% compared to last year, positively impacted by higher revenue and lower costs. Consequently, the EBITDA margin improved by 0.9 percentage points. The company also reported a net profit of QR 118 million for the year ended 31 December 2018, the first ever profitable year, resulting in a significant increase of QR 374 million compared to last year. Based on the solid 2018 financial results, the Board of Directors has recommended the distribution of a cash dividend of 5% of the nominal share value, i.e., QR 0.25 per share, totalling QR 211.4 million, for approval at the company’s Annual General Assembly.

Vodafone Qatar serves more than 1,417,000 customers.

Postpaid customers grew outstandingly in 2018 by 24.1% due to the innovative products and the popularity of Vodafone’s FLEX, Red and Enterprise plans that suit all customer needs. In terms of the company’s growth in Postpaid, the total Average Revenue per User (ARPU) for the year stood at QR 105, a 5.6% growth year-on-year.With such financial growth, Vodafone Qatar’s CEO, Sheikh Hamad bin Abdulla bin Jassim Al Thani, said: “2018 was defined by strong financial performance and a year that truly marked a significant turning point in the life of our company. The crucial decisions made and milestones achieved in our strategy have put us on a clear path to growth.”

CULTURE, SPORTS AND TOURISM

HE SALAH BIN GHANEM BIN NASSER AL ALI MINISTER OF CULTURE AND SPORTS

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A BEACON OF ARTS, CULTURE AND DIVERSITY QATAR CONSISTENTLY EXHIBITS WEALTH IN ARTS AND CULTURE BY BEING A BRIDGE AND A PLATFORM FOR LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL MASTERPIECES.

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very year, Qatar becomes a beacon of new local and international arts exhibitions and installations that are widely spread out in the nation. From the modernly gigantic and celestial airport installations down to the immersive historic exhibition at the Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar relentlessly exhibited overflowing initiatives for arts and culture in 2018. Diversity and festivities also shed light on the nation with the Qatar-Russia Year of Culture 2018 that laid out myriad artistic and cultural options that locals and expats can choose from.

THE EXHIBITIONS Qatar in 2018 became a beacon and a destination of arts and culture from different parts of the globe.

Last year shed light on one of the most remarkable pieces of Qatar Museums with the launch of a new installation in Hamad International Airport (HIA).

The piece of art called “Small Lie” was created by Brian Donnelly, also known as KAWS. According to the artist, the massive sculpture is derived from the concept of the emotional tension between strength and kindness that makes the viewers feel small or inferior but also develop, the urge to protect and console it. “Small Lie” is made from

Afrormosia wood that weighs approximately 15 tons and stands 12 m high.

“THIS CULTURAL YEAR WILL PROVIDE BETTER CHANCES FOR THE QATARI SOCIETY TO EXPERIENCE RUSSIAN CULTURE, AS WELL AS GIVING THE RUSSIAN PEOPLE ACCESS TO THE DIVERSITY OF QATARI CULTURE, WHICH RESPECTS OPENNESS TO CULTURES AND ASPIRES TO CULTURAL INTERACTION.”

HE SALAH BIN GHANEM BIN NASSER AL ALI MINISTER OF CULTURE AND SPORTS

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Furthermore, the popular contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel also added to HIA’s art collection with his new public art pieces called “COSMOS”. Othoniel used gold to gild the steel structure of the piece to properly express the warmth of sunlight. Looking at it from Concourse E, the seemingly celestial piece resembles a calligraphy that is floating in mid-air and a radiant globe that projects the routes of travellers from around the world. From the front, COSMOS looks stunningly like a blooming rose.

For years, HIA has relentlessly supported the arts by continuously teaming up with Qatar Museums in its mission to develop and promote arts and heritage in line with the 2030 Qatar National Vision. Qatar Museums’ art installations have also proven that art can go beyond the four walls of the museum, making HIA the perfect platform for a diverse audience.

Following the airport installations was the Museum of Islamic Art's 10th year anniversary which presented “Syria Matters”, an immersive exhibition that aimed to highlight the extraordinary cultural heritage of the country. The exhibition featured over 120 artefacts dating back as far as the 9th century BCE as well as some of MIA’s greatest collections such as the famous Cavour vase as

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well as significant national and international loans from Istanbul, St. Petersburg, Berlin, London and Paris.

“We chose to celebrate our anniversary with this exhibition as part of our commitment to safeguarding the rich culture that has been tragically lost in the civil war. Through this exhibition, MIA hopes to remind people why Syria ‘Matters’ and why preserving its heritage and legacy should be of the utmost importance,” said MIA Director Dr Julia Gonnella, the exhibition cocurator.

As part of the exhibition, MIA also held performances, lectures, workshops, family activities and book discussions.

BLOOM OF THE DESERT ROSE Following the new installations in HIA was the announcement of the most anticipated National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) under the patronage of His Highness, The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Designed by Jean Nouvel, the dynamic architecture of the National Museum of

Qatar reflects the geography, history and culture of the nation. The entire structure is composed of large interlocking disks of different diameters and curvatures that were inspired by the form of a desert rose.

The NMoQ is divided into three “chapters” —which are Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and Building the Nation — which will be presented through eleven galleries. Each gallery is an allencompassing environment, which tells its part of the grand story through a creative combination of elements such as music, storytelling, archival images, oral histories and evocative aromas.

The 40,000 sqm immersive and experiential museum tells the story of the people and the land of Qatar from earliest times up to the present which gives voice to the country’s rich heritage and culture as well as expresses its vibrant community’s aspirations for the future. The NMoQ also embraces, as its centrepiece, the restored historic Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani (1880-1957), son of the founder of modern Qatar: a building that in former times was both

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the home of the royal family and the seat of government and was subsequently the site of the original National Museum.

QATAR-RUSSIA 2018 YEAR OF CULTURE Another year richly filled with arts and culture was set with the launch of the Qatar-Russia 2018 Year of Culture that officially began with an impressive performance by Igor Moiseyev Ballet at the Katara Opera House. The event was part of Qatar Museum’s Year of Culture initiative that aimed to build bridges between nations through mutual exchanges of arts, culture, heritage and sport.

Minister of Culture and Sports, HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, officially declared the start of the Qatar-Russia 2018 Year of Culture as he expressed the aim of the cultural year which is to deepen the relations between the two countries and to affirm the importance of culture in strengthening the rapprochement between peoples.

Vladimir Medinsky, Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation, said: “We are looking forward to this year’s cultural exchange programme

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creating an atmosphere of understanding and trust between our nations that helps strengthen opportunities for tourism and economic exchange.”

Russian Ambassador to Qatar Noor Mohammad Khulov noted that the cross-cultural initiative was held for the first time in the Gulf region. The QatarRussia 2018 Year of Culture was made possible by the partnership with leading institutions such as the Embassy of Qatar in Russia, the Embassy of

the Russian Federation in Qatar, the Ministry of Culture and Sports in Qatar, as well as the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation.

One of the exciting events in support of the Qatar Russia Year of Culture was the two-day Russian Festival that was hosted by the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani (FBQ) Museum. With the theme of intercultural exchange, the festival started off with a remarkable art and photography exhibition made by young and established Russian

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and foreign artists that complemented the FBQ Museum’s Russian display collection.

The film Russian Ark by Aleksandr Sokurov was also continuously running during the museum hours. A series of folk songs and instrumental pieces were also performed by renowned pianist Sonja Park and Russian performer Nina Ivanova from ICM. Russian dance groups, “Renaissance” and “Arabesque of Qatar” from the ballet studio, the ‘Teens Club’ and the Kamerton Choir took part in the festival as well. Diving deeper into Russian films, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) and Qatar Museums (QM) collaborated and hosted a “Russian Film Screening” that was curated by The Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. Chief Executive Officer of DFI, Fatma Al Remaihi, said: “Cinema has always been central to the cultural narrative of Russia, with several powerful works setting industry trends and creative standards, and inspiring generations of film aspirants. The russian film showcase, featuring films from over six decades, is a great opportunity for film enthusiasts to watch some of the powerful films that present fascinating insights into the landscape of Russia.” The Russian Film Screening focused on selected masterpieces and classics of the Soviet Union and Russian cinema. With

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this, the event started off with the screening of the classic Battleship Potemkin (1925), directed

by Sergei Eisenstein, that was set in the midst of the Russian Revolution of 1905 as the crew of the battleship Potemkin mutiny fought against the brutal, tyrannical regime of the vessel’s officers.

Afterwards, the film Alexander Nevsky (1983), also made by Eisenstein, was screened. On October 16, the film showcase continued with the 1957 film called The Cranes are Flying based on a play

by Viktor Rozov that focused on a love story that was set during the early years of the Second World War. More Russian classic films such as The Mirror (1974) by Andrei Tarkovsky and My Friend Ivan Lapshin (1984) by Aleksei German were also screened. The last film of the event was a movie by Elem Klimov called Come and See (1985) which told the life of Flory who was forced to into the forest to join Resistance fighters after the invasion of German forces in his village. In the end, he made his return only to find his family and fellow peasants ruthlessly massacred.

Continuing the Qatar-Russia Year of Culture, the Russian Avant-Garde exhibition also took place at the State Tretyakov Gallery, the leading reservoir of Russian fine art in the world. The exhibition presented masterpieces that traced

the connections between the artworks made by revolutionary pioneers of the early 20th century such as Kazimir Malevich, Vladimir Tatlin, Alexander Rodchenko and Mikhail Matyushin in comparison to the creations of the artists of the avant-garde second wave. The most radical discoveries of the century manifested themselves not only in the development of new forms but also in the affirmation of innovative ways of overcoming prevalent traditional techniques

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and materials. The artists of the post-war generation shifted their focus mainly towards movement, light and sound as fundamental elements of art. The experimentation in media on view from the paintings to graphic art, photographs and model reconstructions, were evidence of how the Russian avant-garde forever changed the course of not only art history but also architecture, scientific progress and technology.

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QATAR: A GLOBAL SPORTS HUB YEAR UPON YEAR, DOHA CONTINUOUSLY STRIVES TO STRENGTHEN ITS STATUS AS A GLOBAL SPORTS HUB AS THE NATION HEAVILY INVESTS ITS TIME AND EFFORT IN MOULDING COMPETITIVE AND PASSIONATE ATHLETES IN THEIR CHOSEN SPORT. WITH EVERY DROP OF SWEAT AND GRIT, THE NATION RELENTLESSLY SHOWS ITS COMMITMENT TO THE ATHLETES THROUGH ITS OVERFLOWING SUPPORT AND RECOGNITION.

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eam Qatar started 2018 with a win as they returned home with six gold, four silver and three bronze medals at the Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia. The team athletes that competed were from 20 different national sports federations and, for the record, this was Team Qatar’s largest female delegation to the Asian Games so far which was composed of 29 female athletes. The President of Qatar Olympic Committee, HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, gave his comments on the success of the Asian Games Jakarta Palembang 2018 by expressing his gratitude to the host country. He said: “Indonesia has staged a very successful Asian Games 2018. We would like to thank the Organizing Committee and the Olympic Council of Asia for their efforts to facilitate and provide all the necessary resources to the participating delegations and guests. We would also like to wish the next edition of the Asian Games, Hangzhou 2022, all the best and success.”

With pride and humility, he added: “Our athlete delegation is continuing to grow at each games,

and we had athletes competing in new sports such as basketball 3x3, air sports and triathlon for the first time. We also achieved more top-10 finishes

“THE SUCCESS OF TEAM QATAR GOES BEYOND SIMPLY THE MEDALS THAT WE WON.”

HE SHEIKH JOAAN BIN HAMAD BIN KHALIFA AL THANI PRESIDENT QATAR OLYMPIC COMMITTEE

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than prior Asian Games.” With this, he also gave thanks to the Team Qatar athletes and officials who have done their best and performed exceptionally well at the Asian Games. He also firmly emphasized Qatar's aim to continuously support the growth of the athletes as they continue to strive for success in their upcoming challenges. After the victory, HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani looked forward to the journey ahead as the athletes aim to build the success that they have achieved at the Asian Games 2018 and use it as a tool and a means of preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympic Games. The Secretary General of Qatar Olympic Committee, HE Mr Jassim Rashid Al Buenain, also added: “We aimed to have as many athletes from both genders and from different age groups participating at the Asian Games. Qatar Olympic Committee is committed to inspiring, engaging and empowering people in Qatar to take part in sport. This is an important goal and vision for Qatar Olympic Committee to ensure a sustainable sports development.”

In 2018, the third edition of the Summer Youth Olympic Games officially kicked off with an

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opening ceremony in the very heart of Argentina’s capital where the stadium were filled with 200,000 people who came to witness the event at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires. The excitement was fueled as the 4,000 athletes were given the full spotlight during the opening ceremony that was set outside the stadium and was open to the public and free of charge. It was one hour and 53 minutes of pure emotion—an urban experience that celebrated sport with an inclusive, interactive and multicultural approach. Yaqoub Al Khulaifi, Qatar’s young swimmer, carried the Qatari flag during the parade. The opening ceremony was attended by Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Secretary General Jassim Al Buenain and Khalil AlJaber, President of the Qatar Swimming Federation. Five athletes from Youth Olympic Games were also present, namely, Awab Baro, Abdul Aziz Mohamed, Ahmed Al Haj (athletics) and Yaqoub Al Khulaifi (swimming) and Mohamed Al Kashouti (Equestrian).

Just hours before the opening, International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach spoke about the budget for the 2018 Youth Olympics and stated that it was reduced by 40% from its initial costing of $200 million.

He added: “The IOC was presented with a budget of $200 million for these Youth Olympics but the latest information is that the budget will be 40% less,” said Bach who did not elaborate on where the savings will be made. Argentina is in the midst of an economic crisis but Bach insisted that the South American country should not be discouraged from bidding to host the Olympics despite failed attempts for 1956, 1960, 1968 and 2004.

“After these Youth Olympics, they will be in a better position to organize the Olympics,” added Bach. “At the same time, we are aware that Argentina is living through some difficult moments.” At the end of this event, Qatar’s athletes took home two gold medals from their respective sport. Barrow won the men’s 110 m (91.4 cm) hurdles gold while Abdelaziz Mohamed won gold in the 200 m. On May 2018, the President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, crowned the top winners of Qatar Challenge Festival in the camel race (GCC nations) at Al Shahaniya camel racetrack. The camel “Al Tayir" owned by Obeid Jarallah Salmeen

took the first place and silver dagger in the 8 km Zamool race, while the camel “Shashaa" owned

by Obeid Jarallah Salmeen won the first place and silver dagger in the 8 km Thanaya Qadan race. In the 8 km Thanaya Bakkar race. The camel “Noof” owned by Naser Mohammed Al Shangel won the first place and silver Shafla. The festival was also attended by a number of their excellencies, ranking officials and followers of the sport.

NATIONAL SPORTS DAY Aside from bringing home medals, Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) also joined forces with a number of its national federations in order to host a wide -scale event featuring various sports activities in line with the celebration of the National Sport Day. The seventh edition of this proactive day mainly consisted of exciting sporting activities that fit across all genders, ages and abilities as an initiative to encourage the public to pick up a new sport or get back on track with the old one. Sports ranging from basketball, gymnastics, athletics, taekwondo and weightlifting are all made available simply by showing up at the chosen venue which was Aspire Park.

Secretary General of QOC, HE Mr Jassim Rashid Al-Buenain ,gave a comment about the National

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Sports Day. He said: “This is a day for all ages, all abilities and all our people to come together and enjoy the thrill of being active.” In this year’s edition, the event granted the presence of Team Qatar’s very best athletes to show the way and support in giving sports a go. Aspire Park has usually been one of the main venues for the National Sports Day since the initiative first started and with this partnership, Aspire Park has generously provided adequate space for the national federations to exhibit their activities on NSD. The 14 national sporting federations that formed the Team Qatar Sport Village included the following sports: Gymnastics, Athletics, Weightlifting, asketball, judo/taekwondo, hockey, tennis, sailing, fencing, boxing/wrestling, golf, table tennis, volleyball and school sports. The sports holiday was also widely celebrated throughout the nation as the public were able to try out shooting at the Lusail Shooting Range and golf games at Katara. A swimming open day also took place at the Hamad Aquatic Centre while the Qatar Women’s Sport Committee also held activities in the premises of Al Waab.

Indeed, the National Sports Day is one of the country’s biggest celebrations that has the ability to completely unite the whole nation. With this, Qatar is proud to say that this nation is among the few countries in the world that has dedicated a public holiday to sport and other proactive activities. Adding to the sports initiatives this year, Qatar Olympic Committee also hosted a flag relay on December 13, 2018 in an effort to unite, inspire as well as share pride with the nation. The aim of the flag relay was to raise the flag across the city in participation with the current and retired athletes, school children, members from different communities and the general public. The participants of this event also had the opportunity to wave the Qatari flag across the country’s iconic landmark via different sporting activities. The flag relay also aims to raise awareness about cancer and promote the importance of its early detection.

The 2018 edition of the relay also aimed to try to break two Guinness World Records. The first record is for the most people in a cycling relay between Hamad International Airport and Msheireb Properties while the second was for the most people running 100 metres in a 1-hour relay which

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took place at the Oxygen Park.

Year by year, Qatar proves itself to be a recognized global sports hub through the victories the nation won by its exceptional athletes. Indeed, a talented and capable athlete cannot be built overnight which is why the nation exerts so much effort in helping young athletes achieve success. No matter how difficult the training, Qatar always recognizes these efforts and hard work that bring pride to the nation. On November 2018, Qatar Olympic Committee stayed true to its commitment to its athletes by holding a special ceremony at Aspire Dome to mark Sport Excellence Day and recognize those who make the country’s sport achievements a reality. Hundreds of Qatar’s athletes, coaches, stakeholders and Aspire students were present to celebrate the successes of Team Qatar over the past year and encourage them to continue to make their country proud. President of QOC, HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani spoke on the event and said: “Development of athletes to reach the highest level is a top priority of Qatar Olympic Committee as it is a part of the QOC strategy which is aligned to support Qatar National Vision 2030. Team Qatar had a successful year across many sports as medals were won and records were broken. The athletes continued to perform and bring home many glorious titles.” He gave further thanks to athletes as he continued: “Thank you for your commitment and dedication to building the sporting culture of Qatar. It is also

important to recognize the commitment and skills of the incredibly talented coaches who support our Team Qatar athletes to reach their full potential.”

HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani also gave comments about the upcoming sport events and said: “Doha in the coming years will continue to host internationally recognised worldclass sport events such as the IAAF World Athletics Championships Doha 2019, 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, World Championships 2023, IJF Masters 2020 and 2023 FINA World Championships.”

Jassim Rashid Al Buenain also expressed his support and said: “Qatar is a nation passionate about sport and we strongly believe in the power of sport to unite, inspire, empower and educate people of all ages and abilities. Our athletes represent everything that Qatar stands for: hard work, dedication and loyalty. We are extremely proud of them on and off the podium. We believe that hard work deserves recognition, and our athletes work tirelessly to represent Qatar at the highest level and raise the maroon flag around the world.” In the celebration, awards were presented to the athletes and administrators in different categories. The male athlete of the year was awarded to Mutaz Barshim who opened the 2018 Diamond League season with a world -leading jump of 2.40 m on his way to victory in Doha in May. Until today, he still continues to be a tremendous athlete and inspires many from the next generation.

Going over to the female athlete of the year, the

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shooting athlete, Al Dana Saad Al Mubarak, who has shown success every year, received the award.

Other awards included the Sport Excellence of the Year Award, which was awarded to Abdulrahman Samba, who continues to beat records and defeat Olympic and world champions at every opportunity. Admirative awards were presented to the Ministry of Education and Higher Education for its continuous support for the Olympic movement in Qatar and to Aspire Zone for supporting sport and organizing social sport programmes, which play a critical role in developing athletes from a young age. Rania Al Naji, Promising Female Athlete of the Year, said: “This award means a lot to me and is a motivation in the start of my sporting career to continue to improve. At the same time, it is a motivation to girls to work hard and take up more sports thanks to the support we receive from all entities.” Mohammed Al Dosari who was presented with the Male Administrator of the Year stated: “The award is an incentive for all the winning athletes, administrators and federations to continue to excel”. Abderrahman Samba, who won the Sport Excellence Award also gave comments and said: “I’m extremely happy to win this award. This gives me extra motivation to give even more in the coming years. I’d like to thank the Qatar Olympic Committee family under the leadership of H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani for this great occasion. I hope I will continue to be here in the coming years and win more awards.”

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QATAR IN BECOMING A COUNTRY OF DESTINATION IN 2018, TOURISM HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS ONE OF THE FIVE PRIORITY SECTORS IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION IN QATAR.

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hrough the relentless efforts of the tourism sector, Qatar has witnessed immense progress in partnerships and developments as well as a sharp rise in tourist visits to the country.

As part of the biggest highlights in 2018, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad AlThani issued Decision No. 74 of 2018 to formally establish the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC). The new law cancels Qatar Tourism Authority and the government committee to coordinate conferences and events. With this, all functions of these entities shall be allocated to the new council.

With the establishment of the new governing body, the council aims to provide suitable circumstances to implement the national strategy for tourism and related programmes in a way that sustains the comprehensive development plans for tourism. It will also be concerned with regulation of the sector and promotion of tourism both within and outside the country. Furthermore, the council shall have a legal identity and a budget to be attached to the general budget of the State. It shall pertain to the Cabinet and have its headquarters

within the country, and can also have offices outside the State.

Following this, His Highness the Amir also issued Decision No. 75 of 2018 to form the board of directors of the National Tourism Council. Chaired

by HE the Prime Minister with HE the Minister of Finance as vice-chairman, it will also have members consisting of: HE the Minister of Culture and Sports; HE the Minister of Transport and Communications;

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HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce; CEO of Qatar Airways Group; director of the Government Communications Office, chairman of Katara Hospitality and two representatives from the private tourism sector, selected by the chairman of the board of directors.

In the continuous pursuit of the Next Chapter’s targets, QNTC started off strongly right after its inauguration. QNTC has made significant efforts in

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diversifying visitor source markets and promoting Qatar as an attractive tourism destination. In 2018, six representative offices were opened in three of the world's largest visitor source markets — China, India and Russia. In the countries mentioned, visitors from Russia increased by 214%, while visitors from China rose by 47% in the third quarter of 2018, the number of German visitors also increased by 38% and lastly, the number of Indian visitors increased by 25%.

Going deeper in the latter part of the year, QNTC launched Qatar's first globally coordinated destination campaign as a means of positioning the country as an attractive destination across 15 existing and targeted priority markets targeting 250 million travelers around the world. Under the tagline “Qatar. Qurated for you.” the campaign brings to life Qatar’s focus on tailored visitor experiences that celebrate its heritage. It also focuses on providing unique and bespoke experiences for various types of visitors, which include individuals who thrive on exclusivity (luxury travelers), wander lusts, families and people who are looking for a business, value, and authentic immersion.

Speaking about the campaign, Hassan Al Ibrahim, QNTC Assistant Secretary-General, said, “We’re proud of this campaign and the process followed to develop it, which took into account input from our partners in both the public and private sectors, whether in Qatar or internationally. This process is representative of our ethos as an industry, which is deeply rooted in the spirit of collaboration and partnership to deliver exceptional experiences at every touchpoint of the visitor’s journey.”

In line with this, QNTC has also taken strides in enhancing the visitors’ experience in Qatar through the launch of Al Enna Project held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior. Al Enna is a tourism development project that aims to enhance the winter camping experience in Qatar, protect the environment, and ensure public safety. The project is spearheaded by QNTC with the support of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, the Ministry of Interior, the Public Works Authority Ashghal, Qatar Olympic Committee, Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation, Batabit, Mawater,

Katara Hospitality, and QSports.

The project began with an excellent experience at the Al Seef Beach Area – a Sealine beach area which has been developed to accommodate 15,000 people alongside the availability of 30 food and beverage outlets, beach cabins and chairs which can be rented, as well as a children’s play area.

Beyond the beach, rental quad-bikes and ATVs in a 300,000 square metre space were also designed to provide safe and integrated experiences for biking fans. The area features eight biking tracks catering to riders of different abilities and requirements: for ladies, for beginners and children, for intermediatelevel bikers, one for advanced-level bikers, and one for professionals. Last but not the least, the final zone is Al Mashab (the bonfire) where all cultural and heritage activities are to be organised during weekends throughout the camping season. The zone contains 10 tents that the public can rent to enjoy an authentic desert experience, complete with traditional cuisine, a view of the bonfire and family entertainment inspired by Qatari heritage.

Qatar’s 2018 did not only witness major enhancements for the nation’s visitors but the

“WE LOOK FORWARD TO BRINGING THE SPIRIT OF QURATED TO LIFE, ON PEOPLE’S TELEVISION SCREENS, IN AIRPORTS AROUND THE WORLD, AND EVENTUALLY HERE IN QATAR WHERE THE WORLD IS WELCOMED TO EXPERIENCE OUR AUTHENTIC HERITAGE AND FORWARD-LOOKING VISION.”

HASSAN ABDULRAHMAN AL IBRAHIM ASSISTANT SECRETARY-GENERAL QATAR NATIONAL TOURISM COUNCIL.

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cruise tourism sector also saw strong growth with thousands of tourist visitors in the country aboard 14 cruise ships. This year, Doha Port welcomed two mega ships on the same day, which marks a major step in the development of the tourism sub-sector.

One of the biggest ships to dock is the German mega ship AIDAPrima with a capacity of 4,250 passengers and crew.

In the last cruise season, Qatar also welcomed 22 cruise ships carrying more than 65,000 cruise passengers — a 39% increase from the 2016-2017 season. The ongoing 2018-2019 cruise season will continue until April 2019, and is expected to see nearly double the number of cruise ships that arrived in the previous season and bring 140,000 visitors to Qatar's shores.

As part of the country’s greatest pride, the sports sector in the country has also progressed with the continuous efforts of QNTC to leverage the country's state-of-the-art sports facilities to bolster Qatar's position as a world-class sports destination. QNTC has also been showing consistent support for local sports events such as the Esrar Race, AlAdaid Desert Challenge, Doha Triathlon and the Qatar Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP). In 2019, Qatar will be the first-ever country from the Middle East to host the World Corporate Games which is expected to attract about 8,000 international and local participants.

QNTC magnified its focus on Qatar’s Next Chapter through the development and boosts in the sector's professional skills and competitiveness. With this, the governing body partnered with the Union of International Fairs (UFI) to deliver an event management training programme that eventually paid off through the certification of 20 professionals in the business events sector.

In the latter part of the year, QNTC launched its tour guide training programme which resulted in the licensing of 137 tour guides who are proficient in 20 different languages. A special training and licensing programme was also launched and sought the certification of more than 200 4x4 safari tour guides. The training also includes modules on safe four-wheel drive training and emergency response.

QATAR AND THE WORLD

HE SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN ABDULRAHMAN AL THANI DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

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AMIR’S CLARION CALL TO END REGIONAL FEUDS WITH NO END TO THE ONGOING GULF CRISIS AND OTHER REGIONAL CONFLICTS SUCH AS IN SYRIA, PALESTINE, YEMEN AND LIBYA IN THE NEAR FUTURE, HIS HIGHNESS, THE AMIR, SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMID BIN AL THANI, CALLED UPON THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO RESOLVE THESE CONFLICTS FOR AN EVERLASTING PEACE IN THE REGION.

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ddressing the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September 2018, he also highlighted Qatar’s foreign policy outlining global as well as regional security issues and called upon the international community to achieve global security and stability. “It should go beyond managing crises and seeking comprehensive and just solutions to them in accordance with the provisions of international law and resolutions of international legitimacy, away from selectivity, double standards and a policy of imposing a fait accompli by force,” he said. Describing the 18-month-long blockade and false allegations against Qatar by Saudi Arabia and its allies as “llegal,” he said the international community has recognised that these allegations had been made to justify the premeditated measures taken under the pretext of these invented and untrue allegations, in a flagrant violation of international law and the basis of relations between nations, and the values and norms of our

people. Despite all the measures taken to inflict harm on Qatar’s security and stability, create hardships for its people and to launch economic warfare to hinder its development process, the period that followed the unjust siege has witnessed the strengthening of Qatar and consolidation of its role as an active partner in the regional and international arenas.

“IT IS NOT SENSIBLE FOR OUR ARAB REGION TO REMAIN A HOSTAGE TO SOME MARGINAL DIFFERENCES, WHICH ARE FABRICATED IN OUR CASE, AND WHICH CONSUME EFFORTS AND ENERGIES AND WASTE FUNDS EXCEEDING WHAT WE NEED TO ALLOCATE TO THE JUST CAUSES THAT ARE SUPPOSED TO BE AGREED UPON BY US.”

HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI THE AMIR STATE OF QATAR

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BLOCKADE HARMED GCC He said that the differences in views about handling some regional issues have paralysed the effectiveness of an important regional organisation such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The blockade on Qatar has harmed the reputation of the GCC countries, and has reflected negatively on the Council's role in dealing with regional and global issues. He hoped that the GCC countries will all transform the Council’s current plight into an opportunity for reforming it and putting forward binding mechanisms to resolve the differences among its member states through intra-dialogue

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NATO SECRETARY GENERAL JENS STOLTENBERG WITH, HIS HIGHNESS, THE AMIR, SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI, AT NATO HEADQUARTERS IN BRUSSELS.

to avoid any similar recurrence in the future.

He said that Qatar believed in the soundness of its legal position, in the necessity of peaceful settlement of disputes, and in dialogue as the best way to resolve crises. The GCC countries have been positively responsive to all the appreciated efforts of brotherly and friendly nations to end this crisis through an unconditional dialogue based on mutual respect for the sovereignty of nations.

REGIONAL CONFLICTS The Amir also expressed concern over the lingering problems in the Middle East, especially the Palestinian cause. The political process, which began 25 years ago, presented an example of a departure from the United Nations terms of reference to frameworks outside the UN. Though some countries have perceived that as the best and fastest way in finding solutions to it and supported by the Arab states in line with respecting the Palestinian decision, it has resulted in further stalemate and complexity. “Now we are witnessing

attempts to liquidate the Palestinian cause through the liquidation of issues relating to the permanent solution such as Jerusalem, refugees, sovereignty and borders.”

He said Qatar has reaffirmed the importance of negotiations and their resumption but that required commitment to the resolutions of international legitimacy, foremost of which is the two-state solution, and the Arab peace initiative, on the basis of East Jerusalem as the capital of the Palestinian State on 1967 borders. Moreover, there can be no solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict without a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian cause.

According to him, even seventy years after the problem surfaced, the international community was unable to find a solution to the crisis. In addition to the tragedies experienced by the Syrian people, they are worried and frustrated that the crimes of genocide, mass displacement and wholesale death in prisons under torture could become a common practice that the international community can get accustomed to.

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Regarding the Yemen conflict, he reiterated Qatar’s position, of supporting on the unity, independence and territorial integrity of the wartorn nation. As for the Libyan crisis, which has recently witnessed developments that place the security of this country and its territorial integrity at stake, he said Qatar was looking forward to restoring security and stability despite the enormous challenges facing the Libyans. He also expressed solidarity through the Iraqi government in restoring stability by collaboration of all political parties and valued the successes and sacrifices of the Iraqi people in the fight against terrorism in all its forms.

TERRORISM HAS NO PLACE Rejecting all forms and shapes of terrorism anywhere in the world, regardless of the reasons and pretexts, the Amir said that Qatar accorded top priority to fight the menace at the national, regional and international levels.

Believing that young people's education and

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their comprehensive social participation represent the first line of defence for the collective security system and are important factors in fighting terrorism, Qatar has committed to educating ten million children and providing economic empowerment to half a million young people in our region. “In collaboration with the UN, we have carried out projects to promote employment opportunities for young people through capacitybuilding and the launching of programmes to prevent violent extremism,” he said.

QATAR’S ROLE APPRECIATED Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs in the US State Department Alice Wells lauded the efforts of Qatar in negotiating peace with concerned parties in Afghanistan. Wells, who met with Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, HE Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, and discussed recent progress toward an Afghan-owned and Afghanled peace process, and pledged to continue their efforts toward combating terrorism and promoting regional peace and stability. A US government spokesperson said: “Qatar has been an important and valuable partner in that. They have helped with training and equipping, they have helped with supplies, things of that nature that are obviously needed by coalition partners to help facilitate what is going on right there.” Another senior official and the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad also met with a Taliban delegation in Qatar in a bid to break the deadlock over the peace process. The Taliban has said that its members met with the Afghan-American diplomat who now heads the US mission for Afghanistan’s peace. During the meeting, the Taliban representatives discussed the end of occupation and a peaceful solution in Afghanistan. The Taliban leaders stressed the need for a real and Afghan-inclusive solution and that the two sides agreed to continue the meetings in the future.

STRONG TIES WITH TURKEY The Amir, who visited Turkey in August, announced that Qatar would invest QR54.6 billion ($15 billion) in the country's financial markets and banks.

The announcement was made after his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Turkey has been grappling with a currency crisis and heightened tensions with the United States, its NATO ally. “We stand by the brothers in Turkey that have stood with the issues of the Muslim world and with Qatar,” the Amir said in a tweet. “As part of the important talks that I held with His Excellency President Erdogan, we announced a QR54.6 HIS HIGHNESS, THE AMIR, SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI, ADDRESSING THE billion deposit package and 73RD SESSION OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN NEW YORK IN SEPTEMBER 2018. investment projects in the country, which has a strong and solid lyproductive economy,” the Amir said.

QATAR VISA CENTRES As part of the first phase of its new recruitment AMIR VISITS NATO HEADQUARTERS mechanism, Qatar has opened its first Qatar The Amir received a warm welcome by NATO Visa Centre (QVC) in Sri Lanka. Under the new Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg during his mechanism, which came into effect on October visit to NATO headquarters on 7 March 2018. The 12, work visa-related procedures are to be two leaders discussed the security situation in completed in the home countries of expatriate the Gulf region and the partnership between workers before they arrive in Qatar. A total of NATO and Qatar. They also signed an agreement 20 QVCs will be opened in eight countries over allowing NATO forces and personnel to enter and the next few months.The centres will operate transit Qatar, and to use the Al Udeid Air Base based on an integrated electronic system for the in Qatar. This will facilitate NATO missions and implementation of procedures such as medical operations in the region, including the Resolute examinations, fingerprint and biometrics, and the Support Mission in Afghanistan. The Secretary signing of work contracts for expatriates outside General welcomed this agreement, as well as the Qatar, under the supervision of and follow-up strong political dialogue between Qatar and the by the authorities concerned within the country. alliance. NATO and Qatari forces have operated According to a brochure explaining the procedures, side by side in Libya and jointly tackled piracy the expanded medical check-up will include a challenges off the coast of Somalia. Qatar is one vision test, vaccination, and physical examination of four countries – along with Bahrain, Kuwait and by a doctor in addition to the standard blood test the United Arab Emirates – participating in NATO’s and X-rays. The new system would considerably Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI). Launched in help in reducing the number of labour disputes, 2004, ICI seeks to promote political consultation such as over fraudulent contracts and illegal fees and practical cooperation between NATO and collected by recruitment agencies from employees countries in the Gulf region. in the country of origin.

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A YEAR OF GOOD RELATIONS IN 2018, THE NATION WITNESSED HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI FLY OFF TO OTHER COUNTRIES AS PART OF HIS DIPLOMATIC VISITS. SINCE THE BLOCKADE, THE NATION HAS BEEN DOING ITS BEST TO STRENGTHEN ITS RELATIONSHIP AND COOPERATION WITH ITS EXISTING PARTNER COUNTRIES. FOR THE LATTER HALF OF 2018, HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR VISITED EIGHT COUNTRIES IN TOTAL. STARTING OFF FROM JULY, IN WHICH HE VISITED FRANCE AND A FEW MONTHS LATER, IN OCTOBER, HE OFFICIALLY STARTED HIS LATIN AMERICAN TOUR WITH THE REPUBLIC OF ECUADOR, THEN THE REPUBLIC OF PERU, REPUBLIC OF PARAGUAY AND, LASTLY, THE ARGENTINE REPUBLIC. FOR THE LAST TWO MONTHS OF 2018, THE AMIR ALSO STRENGTHENED TIES WITH ROME AND MALAYSIA. DESPITE THE ONGOING GULF CRISIS, QATAR HAS FOCUSED ON CREATING WAYS TO MAINTAIN BILATERAL RELATIONS AND PROGRESS IN THE MUTUAL EFFORTS OF COUNTRIES THAT HAVE SUPPORTED THE NATION. IN THIS YEAR’S VISIT, SEVERAL AGREEMENTS WERE SIGNED THAT WERE ALL AIMED AT THE FURTHER ADVANCE IN THE FIELDS OF ECONOMY, TRADE, EDUCATION, SPORTS, TECHNOLOGY AND MORE.

HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR IN FRANCE At the beginning of July 2018, His Highness the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani traveled to France for his official visit. In the framework of this visit, several agreements were also signed including for the Qatar Free Zone Authority and Thales Group to allow the company to open a branch in Doha. Another agreement was signed between Qatar University and the University of Southern Brittany. Moreover, a letter of intent was signed between the Ministry of Municipality and Environment in Qatar and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the French Republic aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

The HH the Amir held talks with President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe about enhancing the close bilateral co-operation between Qatar and France, and about several regional and international issues. HH the Amir also sent a cable to the French President to express his appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality that he received.

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR VISITS THE UNITED KINGDOM

In the later weeks of July, HH the Amir also headed to the UK. During his visit, the Amir held talks that aimed to strengthen the relationship and the cooperation in various fields as well as address a number of mutual regional and international issues.

During the visit, HH the Amir also met with UK government officials and discussed security and defence cooperation. The Amir also attended meetings with Sajid Javid, the Secretary of State for the Hope Department

as well as the Secretary of State for Defence, Gavin Williamson, and met with Prime Minister Theresa May at 10 Downing Street wherein they discussed ways to combat terrorism.

Held at the headquarters of the Parliament, a number of excellencies, members of the House of Lords and the House of Commons joined the Amir in discussing historical ties between Qatar and the United Kingdom.

THE AMIR’S LATIN AMERICAN TOUR STARTS WITH ECUADOR His Higness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani began his Latin American tour in the Republic of Ecuador. Since the opening of the Embassy of Ecuador in Doha and the Embassy of Qatar in Ecuador in 2012, the two countries’ relationship has only deepened and flourished.

The Amir was accorded an official reception and was presented with the National Order of Merit by the President of Ecuador at Carondelet Palace. The Amir received the key to Quito City as a guest of honour and as an expression of friendship. The visit also brought forth a meeting that focused on ways to promote the bilateral relations in all fields between both countries as well as the latest regional and international developments of mutual interest. The meeting also featured discussions about enhancing cooperation in energy and infrastructure and ways of activating the agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between both countries.

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI IN THE REPUBLIC OF PERU In October, His Highness the Amir flew for a two-day official visit to the Republic of Peru. The President of the Republic of Peru Martin Vizcarra Cornejo and the Amir also held talks at the Presidential Palace in the capital Lima that focused on enhancing both governments’ efforts to improve the legal framework to facilitate and promote the Qatari investments in Peru.

The current Gulf crisis and regional and international issues of common interest were also discussed.

Aside from this, HH the Amir and the Peruvian President have also signed agreements in relation to political-diplomatic cooperation, sports and youth, drug trafficking, disaster management, civil aviation, agriculture

and an executive programme for the existing cultural agreement with Peru.

Other happenings during the visits also involved the Amir receiving the key to the city

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of Lima from the mayor Luis Castaneda Lossio, as an honorary guest of the Republic and as an expression of the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries.

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AMIR’S OFFICIAL VISIT TO PARAGUAY Part of HH the Amir’s purpose of travel to Paraguay was the session of official talks at the Presidential Palace in the capital Asuncion, chaired by the Amir and HE President Mario Abdo Benitez of the Republic of Paraguay.

The discussions were mainly about cooperation at various levels, especially in the economic, investment, trade and cultural areas, as well as the air transportation sector.

HH the Amir also paid a visit to the Republic of Paraguay’s National Congress building where he was greeted by Silvio Ovelar, President of the National Congress and President of the Senate, and his deputy Miguel Cuevas, Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies which allowed the Amir to review legislative and parliamentary activities.

Aside from this, the Amir also held a meeting with the President of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Republic of Paraguay, Raul Torres Kirmser, and members of the court, and Minister of the Supreme Court of Justice, Luis Benitez Riera, about the prospects of judicial and legal cooperation between the two countries.

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR, MALAYSIAN PM DISCUSS SYRIA, YEMEN AND GULF CRISIS

In December, His Highness the Amir met with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues, including the Gulf crisis and conflicts in Syria and Yemen. The two sides agreed to form a joint high committee headed by the foreign ministers of the two countries, and to activate the joint economic committee that was formed in 2009. At the regional and international levels, the two sides discussed a number of issues of common concern. At a

separate function, the Amir awarded Nigeria’s former anti-corruption official Nuhu Ribadu and World Bank vice-president (Integrity) Leonard F. McCarthy of South Africa the AntiCorruption Lifetime/Outstanding Achievement Award at the Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award ceremony. Dr Mahathir Mohamad was present at the ceremony which was held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR’S VISIT TO THE ARGENTINE REPUBLIC

His Highness the Amir’s last stop on his Latin American tour focused on official talks with HE President of the Argentine Republic Mauricio Macri at the presidential palace in Buenos Aires.

During the Amir’s visit, the Ambassador of the Republic of Argentina to Qatar, Carlos Hernandez, also affirmed his country’s keenness to intensify its relationship with Qatar. Moreover, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Argentine Republic, Jorge Faurie, added that his country also wants to establish strong relations with Doha in the field of sport, especially with regard to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This intention brought forth a signing of bilateral agreements regarding the exchange of athletes and trainers, as well as the establishment of specific cooperation programmes. During his visit, His Highness the Amir and the Argentinian president also witnessed the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two governments. The agreements include the abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic, private and official passports between the two countries; a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in education and science; and a memorandum of understanding between Qatar’s Ministry of Culture and Sports and the General Secretariat of Sport of Argentina to enhance possibilities and opportunities for sports co-operation between the two countries, using Argentinian expertise in this field.

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HIS HIGHNESS THE AMIR ON HIS TWO-DAY VISIT TO ROME

On November 2018, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani payed a two-day visit to the Italian Republic. At the Villa Doria Pamphili in Rome, the Amir and the Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed two co-operation agreements and a number of memoranda of understanding.

The two co-operation agreements are an agreement on scientific and educational co-operation between Qatar University and Sapienza University of Rome that aims to exchange information, experiences and lecturers, and joint implementation of scientific projects, especially through interaction in joint meetings and courses; and a scientific cooperation agreement between Qatar Foundation and Sapienza University of Rome aimed at the consolidation and promotion of co-operation in the educational and scientific fields.

The Amir also noted the great development in bilateral relations between the two countries especially in the fields of economic relations.

During his short visit, His Highness the Amir also gladly welcomed the participation of Italian companies in the major future projects related to the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

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HEALTH

HE DR. HANAN MOHAMMED AL KUWARI MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH

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NATIONAL STRATEGY SETS AMBITIOUS GOALS QATAR HAS TAKEN GIANT STEPS TOWARDS BUILDING A HEALTH SYSTEM OF THE HIGHEST INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS.

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ts plans and strategies in this field are well defined and are being implemented effectively despite the unjust blockade imposed on Qatar. All efforts and potential are utilized to continually upgrade and develop the level of health services within the framework of the great care of the government and wise leadership of the country for the health sector as being one of the vital sectors that constitute the mainstay for building the nation. In recent years, Qatar has entered the list of developed nations in terms of integrated healthcare services that meet the best standards worldwide, while ranking first in the Arab region in this field. The progress of the health sector in Qatar is indicated by many of the world's leading health indexes that accord the sector forward positions, and by the diversity of its large medical institutions that can compete with their highranking international counterparts in treatment and nursing services. Qatar ranks first in the Arab world and 20th worldwide in the 2018 Health Care Index, while it ranked 39th among 80 countries in 2017, according to American Numbeo Research and Data Corporation. At 78.5 years, Qatar ranks first in the Arab life expectancy after birth, two years higher than the 76.5-year average in the GCC

countries, and more than six years above the world average of 71.9 years.

NEW FACILITIES In recent years, many health facilities have been opened in Qatar, including five hospitals between 2011 and 2016. Four other hospitals have begun to provide services in 2017 and 2018. Thirteen secondary care facilities and 10 health and wellness centres were also established.

"THE OPENING OF THE MAIN HOSPITAL OF SIDRA MEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ACHIEVEMENTS ADDED TO THE EFFORT TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF HEALTH FACILITIES IN THE COUNTRY. THE NEW HOSPITAL WILL PROMOTE HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN AND WILL SUPPORT OUR COMMITMENT TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF THE POPULATION OF QATAR."

HE DR. HANAN MOHAMMED AL KUWARI MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH STATE OF QATAR

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PHYSICAL THERAPY Building on the strong awareness of the importance of the health sector and its close link with the pillars of sustainable development, Qatar has invested in the field of physiotherapy through the establishment of two international Physiotherapy centres and one international Health complex which has been growing since its inception in 2015 with medical services that correspond to the highest international standards in the field of physiotherapy and a medical team with expertise in and knowledge of the latest scientific developments in the sector. Today, these three facilities provide clear evidence of the large growth of demand for healthcare in the country, on the one hand, and indicate the confidence of patients

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in the medical team and the services provided by the two centres and the complex, on the other, thus confirming Qatar's desire to become a global centre for physical therapy provided by the private sector.

NEW NATIONAL HEALTH STRATEGY 2018-2022 The National Health Strategy 2018-2022 was launched in 2018 to focus on the diverse needs of seven population groups, including children, people with special needs and the elderly. The strategy also works in accordance with a five priority approach to upgrade the healthcare system and improve its operation in order to help achieve the ambitious goals. The strategy seeks to improve the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes by reducing hospital admissions by 15% through improving the specialized services at the primary healthcare level. Efforts will also be enhanced to support improved healthy lifestyles in the society and reduce unhealthy habits and behaviours such as smoking, which the strategy

prescribes reducing by 30% over the next five years.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CORPORATION All health services provided by the Primary Health Care Corporation have evolved to include all treatment and preventive services. The number of visitors benefiting from these services increased compared to last year, accessed by more than 2.8 million at the end of last November, an increase of 6% over the level of the same period last year.

According to an internal report, the corporation, in line with the National Health Strategy and based on Qatar's keenness to build a modern, integrated and comprehensive healthcare system, has committed itself to enhancing health services and ensuring their continuity through providing family medicine services at primary health centres. Among the programmes of the Primary Health Care Foundation provided for patients is the smart check-up which is one of the objectives of the National Health Plan.

The smart check-up programme is a public health

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check-up designed to assess for preventive reasons the conditions of the persons being screened to discover the diseases that they may have in the future, allowing them to identify the risk factors that they may face and providing them with the knowledge on how to avoid and prevent them.

The gradual implementation of this programme has been completed in all health centres since the beginning of this service. Until last September, 48,000 check-up subjects were directly contacted by phone, 29,000 were called and over 9,000 completed check-ups. On the other hand, as part of the corporation's care for maternal and child health, the post-natal care programme for mothers has been adopted in line with the plan of the National Primary Health Care Strategy. The corporation has started to provide in its health centres postpartum healthcare for mothers six weeks after giving birth. This programme aims at assessing their physical and psychological state and providing appropriate health counseling to help them face the challenges affecting their health as a result

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of childbirth, in addition to encouraging them to practice breastfeeding and educating them about the optimal use of contraceptives that are most suitable to their individual health conditions. This service is extended to all new mothers who have given birth naturally in HMC's maternity hospitals and registered in health centres. This year, and in line with the corporation’s strategic objectives and plans to facilitate and simplify access to services in accordance with specified time schedules, four new health centrers in Muaither, Al Wajba, Al Wa’ab and Qatar University were inaugurated to make a valuable addition to the existing centres, as they contribute significantly to reducing pressure on existing centres and facilitating access to outstanding health services in accordance with the geographical distribution of the population. This brings the total number of the corporation’s health centres to 27.

ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE HEALTH SECTOR A study by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce on the growing economic role of the health sector in the country between 2012 and 2016 revealed that this sector plays an important role in the country’s overall development process. During the research period, the health sector witnessed a growth in its real output, which ranged from 11.2% in 2012 to 14.5% in 2013, to reach 6.3% in 2016. These rates are considered high and exceed the average annual growth rate of other economic sectors. The contribution of the health sector in

real GDP increased from 1% to 1.43% in 2016 due to the increase in the number of health services establishments, which rose by 45.6% in only one year (2016). The study indicates that the remarkable expansion of the number of establishments providing health services, especially the largest ones, was also accompanied by the growth of total revenues of this sector, which rose from about QR 1.6 billion ($ 440 million) in 2012 to about QR 3.7 billion ($ 1.02 billion) in 2016, achieving a combined growth rate of 130% throughout the entire period.

The largest growth was concentrated in 2014 and 2015, with total annual revenues of the sector rising by 43% and 56%, respectively. In 2017, the primary health care system cost about $ 5.8 billion, and this amount is expected to rise in 2022 to $ 6.6 billion, according to a report issued by Alven Capital for banking and investment consultancy.

SIDRA MEDICAL AND RESEARCH CENTER OPENS Sidra Medical and Research Center in Qatar opened its main hospital which is equipped with the latest facilities, and announced its readiness to receive its first inpatient. The centre said in a statement published on its website that the first group of inpatients to be received by the hospital includes children with minor surgery cases and a specific number of women who will undergo caesarean deliveries. Sidra Medical and Research Center plans to gradually expand the range of healthcare it provides over the following months. Health services

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will include complex surgeries for children and specialized health care in many medical specialties such as neurosurgery and heart disease, as well as childbirth, with a focus on high-risk pregnancies.

Sidra Medical and Research Center Chief Executive Officer Peter Morris said: "Sidra Medical and Research Center has some of the world’s best professional cadres who enjoy a passion for providing the best possible care for women and children in Qatar, and I am sure they will win the trust of their patients and will be the best companions for them during the journey of their treatment with us”. For her part, Dr Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Public Health, said: "The opening of the main hospital of Sidra Medical Research Center is one of the most important achievements added to the effort to increase the number of health facilities in the country. The new hospital will promote healthcare for women and children and will support our commitment to improving the health and well-being of the population of Qatar". Addressing a press conference, Professor Lord Darzi of Denham, the Vice Chair of the Board of Governors of Sidra Medical and Research Center, said: "Sidra Medical and Research Center, a member of Qatar Foundation, is the best example of the country's long-term efforts to build a worldclass infrastructure in the healthcare and research sector. It also reflects the keen interest of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser in making a tremendous leap in the field of healthcare for women and children. "

ENVIRONMENT

HE ENG ABDULLA BIN ABDULAZIZ BIN TURKI AL SUBAIE MINISTER OF MUNICIPALITY AND ENVIRONMENT

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QATAR STRIVES FOR SUSTAINABILITY QATAR CONTINUES TO STRIVE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AS THE NATION RELENTLESSLY COMMITS TO ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES.

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atar strives to aim high in maintaining the sustainability of the nation in terms of its environment. With this, 2018 has evidently shed light on initiatives and environmentally friendly projects such as the third edition of Qatar Sustainability Week, recycling and Earth Hour. It is clear that Qatar has taken of the importance of its natural resources and with small steps and big strides, the nation does what it can to give back and reduce harmful activities towards the environment.

QATAR SUSTAINABILITY WEEK Qatar Green Building Council is back again with the third edition of Qatar Sustainability Week under the patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani. With the launch of the new Qatar Sustainability Week, the initiative continues to strive to further engage the community in a wide range of sustainability-oriented activities. Once again emphasising the importance of the project, Qatar Sustainability Week played a crucial role in raising awareness among the wider community, while showcasing the progress Qatar has made in the areas of sustainability and green buildings.

Qatar Sustainability Week 2018 officially kicked off with one of its most prominent events, which is the fourth edition of the Qatar Green Building

“THE QATARI AGRICULTURAL SECTOR, DUE TO THE GROWING INTEREST OF THE GOVERNMENT UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF HIS HIGHNESS, THE AMIR, MADE A BIG LEAP TO COVER THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LOCAL MARKET AND RAISE THE LEVEL OF SELF-SUFFICIENCY IN ANIMAL AND PLANTS SECTORS AND FISHERY.”

HE ENG ABDULLA BIN ABDULAZIZ BIN TURKI AL SUBAIE MINISTER OF MUNICIPALITY AND ENVIRONMENT

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Conference. With a surge of more than 20,000 members, this year’s week dedicated to Qatar’s environmental sustainability served as a unique platform in promoting the nation’s sustainability vision as well as community engagement with relevant stakeholders under an overarching umbrella to achieve its sustainable development goals. The annual event was led under the patronage of HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation and brought together industry leaders and sustainability experts to address and showcase their innovative solutions to Qatar and the region’s most pressing environmental challenges. Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, Director, QGBC, said: “Qatar Sustainability Week has become a popular fixture on the Qatari calendar, and each year we see more exciting activities and events, and more people taking part and attending.” He also added: “The great thing about the week is that everyone can join in. There are plenty of events and activities to take part in and any organization can host an event themselves. We’ve already seen strong interest in the registration of events this year and we hope to see more partners sign up in the coming weeks.

Qatar Sustainability Week is most successful when members of the community, as well as those from

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public and private sector organizations, play an active role.”

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT INITIATIVES The former Minister of Municipality and Environment HE Mohamed bin Abdullah Al Rumaihi dedicated 2018 in paying great attention to protecting Qatar’s environment. The former Minister stated that the country’s efforts in the field have been related specifically to activities that can help deal with climate change, in which the State of Qatar has shown a commitment to play a prominent regional and international role.

“This was reflected in the country’s constant efforts in supporting global efforts in protecting the environment and stopping the depletion of natural resources,” he added.

As part of their initiatives, they took part in Earth Hour last March 2018 which is celebrated by countries around the world on the last Saturday of March of every year. The previous Minister said that Earth Hour is a way to help promote a culture of preserving the planet simply by encouraging people around the world to turn off the lights for one hour on one day of the year as a symbolic gesture. He also encouraged everyone to participate in the event and to practice the conservation of energy in their daily lives. The former Minister stays firm in preserving natural resources in support of international efforts to create a collective awareness on the importance of protecting the environment from pollution.

Through the yearly Earth Hour, the former Minister called on everyone to work to promote a change in environmentally unfriendly behaviours in a bid to pursue a clean and healthy environment for future generations. He also stated that the participation of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment in this world event aimed to draw attention to the need to address the phenomenon of climate change. In pursuit of promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility, Qatar Foundation also marked World Water Day and Earth Hour on March 22, 2018. In light of this celebration, QF hosted a dedicated information booth and competition at the Education City Student Center that highlighted the importance of water and its conservation for Qatar and the world. The booth was made more engaging when the visitors were invited to guess the

amount of water it takes to produce exhibited items like papers and plastic bottles.

The competition is designed to inform the public about water use awareness and also motivate individuals to use the resource wisely.

Head of Environment Compliance, HSSE, QF, Ms. Nisreen N. Abdrabbo said: “Qatar Foundation is delighted to take part in these important global environmental initiatives.

By celebrating World Water Day and Earth Hour, we are striving to promote community and student participation in our year-round campaign to raise awareness of sustainable development, water conservation, and environmental responsibility in Qatar and beyond.” Meanwhile, the Qatar National Library also hosted an event titled “STEM Day at QNL: Energy Saving through Water Conservation”.

This event focused on how conserving water translates directly into saving energy, and its impact on the environment. A number of QF centres and facilities across Education City also took part in the “Lights Off” event to mark Earth Hour including the Qatar National Convention Centre, QF Headquarters, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, and the Ceremonial Court. With these activities successfully laid out, Qatar Foundation has continually shown its commitment to developing innovative solutions to local and global environmental and energy challenges. This drive was evident with the series of high-level sessions and presentations on energy and the environment at QF’s Annual Research Conference (ARC’18) that was organized by Qatar Foundation Research and Development.

QATAR RECYCLES In 2018, Qatar continued to move towards sustainable development as the nation stays focused on resolving several waste management issues. Because of this, Qatar also aimed to recycle at least 15% of solid wastes. Qatar has fared well in the area of domestic waste generation compared

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to other countries. The country has succeeded in keeping domestic waste at lower levels compared to several countries. The generation rate of household solid waste was estimated at 2.1-4.1 kg per capita per day in GCC countries, 1.2 in the US, and 4.1 in European Union countries, compared to 1.6 kg per person per day in Qatar.

This domestic solid waste usually consists of different proportions of organic matter, paper, plastics, glass, metals, fabrics, bones, leather, home dust, etc. In ranking, domestic solid waste in Qatar is the second largest source of waste next to construction waste. However, the total amount of domestic solid waste has massively depleted due to the declining production of construction waste.

Qatar's Second National Development Strategy stated: “As the infrastructure works of the FIFA World Cup and related demolition and rebuilding of enterprises is nearing completion, the generated amount of construction waste is expected to decrease. Moreover, the State is making significant efforts to increase the waste recycling rate and promote environmental awareness on reducing the quantity of domestic solid waste, making it possible to achieve the target of recycling 15% of solid waste over the course of the NDS-2.” In line with this, Qatar’s Second National Development Strategy (2018-2022) includes many goals that seek to ensure sustainable consumption and encourage efficient use of natural resources. One of the goals is to preserve and develop water resources by reducing the total loss of potable water and reducing the per capita consumption of water by 15% through the National Program for Conservation and Energy Efficiency by 2020.

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THE 11TH EDITION OF QATAR NATIONAL DAY A DECADE OF NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION HAS PASSED AND THE NATION CONTINUES TO THRIVE AND PROSPER IN UNITY UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF HIS HIGHNESS, THE AMIR, SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI. WITH A SLOGAN, “AS LONG AS IT WAS PROVEN

BY OUR DEEDS, QATAR WILL REMAIN FREE”, THE NATION CELEBRATES A WIDE SPREAD OF ACTIVITIES NATIONWIDE.

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SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS OF QATAR IN 2018 People of Qatar celebrated Qatar's first ever AFC Asian Cup triumph in the streets of the nation and all over social media. His Highness, The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani met the players as they landed to kick-start a second straight night of celebrations in Doha.

The mentor and the constant confidant of Qatar’s football team, head coach Felix Sanchez.

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A spectacular Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Asian Games held in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta.

A team comprised of Abdalelah Haroun, Abdulrahman Samba, Mohammed Nour and Mohammed Abas won the 4x400 relay race in 3:00.56 minutes which sets a new Asian record in the 2018 Asian Games.

Medal winners pose for a photograph with Team Qatar officials .

A side by side moment of pride for the Qatar’s Beach Volleyball gold medal victory.

Young football players take part in National Sports Day activities in an organized football tournament at Aspire.

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