2017-2018

HH THE EMIR SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI

HH THE FATHER EMIR SHEIKH HAMAD BIN KHALIFA AL THANI INDEX

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF ECONOMY: 19-48 YOUSUF BIN JASSIM AL DARWISH BLOCKADE OPENS NEW VISTAS QATARI BANKS WEATHER BLOCKADE STORM MANAGING DIRECTOR & CEO QATAR REMAINS LARGEST LNG EXPORTER JASSIM YOUSUF AL DARWISH A SAFE HAVEN FOR INVESTORS PARADISE REGAINED MANAGER QIA: A HELPING HAND INSURANCE UNSCATHED DR FAISAL FOUAD ISLAMIC FINANCE: GOING GREAT GUNS ALI BIN ALI: A HISTORY RICH IN ACHIEVEMENTS QFC: BUSINESS AS USUAL UNINTERRUPTED GROWTH FOR REAL ESTATE SECTOR EDITORIAL EVENTS OFFICER CHIEF EDITOR GHAZALA MOHAMMED IZDIHAR IBRAHIM ICT: 49-62 MOVING TOWARDS A SMART FUTURE SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS ACCOUNTANT GBI: PIONEERING INNOVATION KARIM EMAM PRATAP CHANDRAN CRA: FOSTERING TRANSPARENCY, COMPETITION AND CONNECTIVITY UDAYAN NAG OOREDOO: CONNECTING THE WORLD PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER VODAFONE: QATAR’S PARTNER IN PROGRESS ART ESLAM ELMAHALAWY SENIOR ART DIRECTOR CULTURE AND SPORTS: 63-70 MANSOUR ELSHEIKH SECRETARY AND A YEAR OF ART, CULTURE AND NATIONALISM DEPUTY ART DIRECTORS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT POWER OF SPORTS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER AYUSH INDRAJITH REENA LEWIS HUSSEIN ALBAZ INFRASTRUCTURE: 71-100 DISTRIBUTION DEPARTMENT REGAINING LOST GROUND MARKETING & SALES BASANTA POKHREL IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN: NASSER BIN KHALED HOLDING MANAGER KAHRAMAA: MAINTAINING AN UNINTERRUPTED SUPPLY SAKALA A DEBRASS GWC: IN THE SPIRIT OF SOLIDARITY TEAM QATAR AIRWAYS: OPENING DOORS TO QATAR SONY VELLATT MANATEQ: CREATING A NEW BUSINESS ORDER HIA: PRIDE OF QATAR KHALID JAFFER QATAR RAIL: REDUCING DISTANCES, CONNECTING QATAR ASHGHAL: QATAR DESERVES THE BEST HAMAD PORT: QATAR OPENS NEW MARITIME GATEWAY WORLD CUP 2022: THE GAMES ARE VERY MUCH ON THE PAINTING ON THE COVER WORLD CUP 2022: PREMIUM SEATING IS A GIFT FROM QATARI ARTIST ALI HASSAN ENVIRONMENT: 101-106 SUSTAINING SUSTAINABILITY WASTE MANAGEMENT: FROM CONSTRUCTION TO CONSTRUCTIVE

QATAR AND THE WORLD: 107-116 GCC STALEMATE: ADVANTAGE QATAR “IRAN, QATAR GO BACK A LONG WAY” “QATAR, TURKEY ARE SISTER COUNTRIES”

EDUCATION: 117-128 Published by QATAR WITNESSES RISE IN EDUCATION EXPENDITURE Oryx Publishing and Advertising Co WLL QATAR’S FOUNDATION FOR R&D ENDEAVOURS P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar ENTREPRENEURIAL MINI-BOOM AT CMU-Q Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, 44667584 ACS DOHA: PREPARING NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK Fax: (+974) 44550982 Email: [email protected] HEALTH: 129-132 Website: www.oryxpublishing.com A YEAR OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE NEARLY 3 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRES IN 2017 A PRESENTATION PROGRESS 2017-2018 SLUG NAME FOREWORD Year after year Qatar overcomes various challenges and continues to reap the benefits of its achievements, but 2017 was different from all previous years. The country’s leadership, the resolve of its people in the face of the blockade, and the policies followed by it in the field of political, economic, diplomatic and human development resulted in international commendation for Qatar from all over the world.

Standing tall against the embargo imposed on it by some of its Arab neighbours has brought to the fore the Qatari character which has won the respect and appreciation of enemies and friends alike. The conflict has highlighted the potential of the Qataris to widen their horizons, emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency, and stressed the need to support the national economy with alternative resources. The crisis also confirmed the success of the wise leadership in investing in the Qatari people who have shown courage, awareness and cohesion against the designs and agenda of the blockading countries which went all out to harm Qatar and its people, but Qatar was equal to the task under the banner of Tamim Al Majd (Tamim the Glorious).

Thanks to its potential and capabilities and future plans and strategies, in which the priorities of self-sufficiency, enhancement of national assets and industries, and minimising the impact of the blockade on the giant national development projects were foremost, Qatar has succeeded in maintaining its steadfastness and perseverance and in countering the blockading measures which were suddenly and unexpectedly imposed by some Gulf states.

Despite the unjust blockade, Qatar’s 2018 budget, announced by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in December 2017, affirmed Qatar’s firm insistence on defying the embargo and maintaining the strength of the Qatari economy in the face of any economic and social restrictions imposed on the country since June last year. Spending will increase to QR203.2 billion, up by 2.4% from the budget of 2017. Revenue is also expected to rise by 2.9% to QR 175.1 billion, driven by non-hydrocarbon revenues.

Qatar is ranked 25th worldwide and second in the Arab world in the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 2017-2018, surpassing 112 countries worldwide, which reflects Qatar’s continued global competitiveness and reinforces it's plan to enter the list of the 10 most competitive economies in the world in the coming 10 years, overtaking Saudi Arabia (ranked 30th), Kuwait (ranked 52nd), China (ranked 27th), Bahrain (ranked 44th) and Poland (ranked 39th). In the Economic Freedom Index of 2017 issued by The Heritage Foundation of the United States of America, Qatar ranked second among Arab nations and 29th in the world among 180 countries rated by the index in terms of economic freedom. According to the index, Qatar scored 73.1 points, 2.4 points higher than its score in 2016, while the world average is 60.9 points and the regional average is 61.9 points. The important areas where Doha achieved successes were tax policy, collection and free trade.

9 CONTENTS

20 BLOCKADE OPENS NEW VISTAS Qatar has announced a series of measures such as lifting the moratium on the North Gas field and issuing a record $9 billion Eurobond sale in the regional and international debt markets.

16 A NATION AND ITS LEADER COME OF AGE The year 2017 saw the Emir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani lead from the front as Qatar blocked the Saudi-Arabia led blockade imposed on it.

31 A SAFE HAVEN FOR INVESTORS 40 ISLAMIC FINANCE: GOING GREAT Non-Qatari investors can own up to 49% of GUNS the capital of companies listed on the Qatar Qatar has earned a place among the Stock Exchange if they get approval from ‘Top 10’ nations in the world for its ‘best the government. developed ecosystem’ for Islamic finance

24 QATARI BANKS WEATHER 34 QSE: PARADISE REGAINED 44 QFC: BUSINESS AS USUAL BLOCKADE STORM The turmoil on the Qatar Stock Exchange The economic blockade imposed by the The downgrading of Qatar’s sovereign that followed the snapping of commercial neighbouring countries in the GCC region credit rating from 'stable' to 'negative' had and diplomatic ties by some countries in has had little impact on Qatar’s financial little impact on the performance of the the GCC region on June 5, 2017 dissipated activities. country’s banking section in the first three within 72 hours. quarters of 2017.

46 UNINTERRUPTED GROWTH FOR 38 INSURANCE UNSCATHED REAL ESTATE SECTOR Following the blockade on Qatar, the rest of The country’s real estate sector not only the world offered plenty of opportunities to received a shot in the arm due to the rising insurance companies in the country. oil prices but also remained unscathed in the aftermath of economic and trade sanctions on Qatar.

28 QATAR REMAINS LARGEST LNG EXPORTER 36 QIA: A HELPING HAND Despite the embargo imposed by its Arab Qatar’s Minister of Finance HE Ali Shareef Al neighbours, Qatar continued to be the Emadi confirmed that the Qatar Investment world’s leading LNG exporter in 2017, a Authority had brought back more than position held by it for over a decade. QR73 billion into the country since the standoff with its neighbours.

CONTENTS

50 MOVING TOWARDS A SMART FUTURE Two decades after opening up the country’s telecom sector, Qatar's information and communications technology industry is moving ahead at a rapid rate.

59 CONNECTING THE WORLD 68 POWER OF SPORTS 63 QATAR WITNESSES HISTORIC From a one-nation operator with less than Qatar Olympic Committee president Joaan NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS two million customers in 2005, Ooredoo bin Hamad Al Thani reflects on a year in Minister of Culture and Sports HE Salah now has a customer base of more than which sports in the country became more bin Ghanem bin Nasser Al Ali had said 150 million in nearly a dozen countries “important than ever”. last year that the country's National Day celebrations at Darb Al Saai highlighted the unity between the expats and Qataris.

64 A YEAR OF ART, CULTURE 61 VODAFONE: QATAR’S PARTNER AND NATIONALISM IN PROGRESS Aiming at becoming one of the art In line with the ambitions, dreams and capitals of the world, Qatar continues visions of the nation, Vodafone Qatar has to make strides to make the country been playing its role to be recognised as a home to local and international art long-term partner in the country. masterpieces.

CONTENTS

94 QATAR’S NEW MARITIME GATEWAY The New Port Project (Hamad Port) at Umm Al Houl, located south of Doha, was formally inaugurated during a colourful ceremony in September 2017.

72 QATAR COMPANIES REGAIN LOST GROUND Mergers, announcement of future plans, contingency as well as permanent arrangements and new alliances in the face of travel trade sanctions marked Qatar’s corporate sector during 2017.

78 MAINTAINING UNINTERRUPTED SUPPLY Kahramaa has succeeded in maintaining the country’s requirements for electricity 105 CONSTRUCTION WASTE and water round the clock. MANAGEMENT 102 SUSTAINING SUSTAINABILITY The agreement between QPMC and TRL Despite some tough times because of is expected to produce 30,000 tonnes strained relations with its neighbours, there of recycled aggregate in 3-5 years' time, was no let-up in efforts to make Qatar more according to Dr Khaled Hassan, Country environment-friendly. Director - Qatar, TRL

82 OPENING DOORS TO QATAR Qatar Airways has accelerated its global expansion plans with the launch of a number of new destinations.

84 CREATING A NEW BUSINESS ORDER The year 2017 saw Manateq sign back-to-back deals for its Ras Bufontas Special Economic Zone. 97 FIFA 2022 WORLD CUP PROJECTS 92 QATAR DESERVES THE BEST The Al Thumama and Ras Abu Aboud Ashghal completed 99% of its works in the first half of 2017, which stadiums were unveiled in 2017; Coastal included 16 developments in highway projects and six in infrastructure Qatar awarded the contract for making projects. ‘Made in Qatar’ seats for the quadrennial event.

CONTENTS

110 ADVANTAGE QATAR 118 QATAR WITNESSES INCREASE 130 A YEAR OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE Qatar’s avowed policy to toe an IN EDUCATION EXPENDITURE In 2017, the country allocated $6.6 billion independent line with respect to its foreign The allocations for education in Qatar’s for healthcare (12.3% of the total general affairs has made some countries in the 2017 general budget increased to QR20.6 budget) compared to $5.7 billion (10% of region uncomfortable. billion, which represented 10.4% of total the general budget) allocated in 2016. public spending.

112 “IRAN, QATAR GO BACK 114 “QATAR IS A SISTER COUNTRY” 120 QATAR’S FOUNDATION FOR A LONG WAY” Turkey’s ambassador to Doha, Fikret Ozer, R&D ENDEAVOURS HE Mohammed Ali Subhani, the says that his country seeks good relations The year 2017 witnessed a number of Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of with all the GCC countries, but the current landmark developments with regard to Iran to Qatar, confirms that the relations circumstances make Qatar the closest the country’s research and development between the two countries are unique, both country to Turkey. initiatives, and Qatar Foundation was historically and culturally. involved in almost all of them.

PROGRESS 2017-2018 SLUG NAME

EMIR OF THE STATE OF QATAR HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI SPEAKS DURING THE OPENING SESSION OF THE 72ND UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY AT THE UN HEADQUARTERS IN NEW YORK ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2017.

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A NATION AND ITS LEADER COME OF AGE THE YEAR 2017 SAW THE EMIR HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI LEAD FROM THE FRONT AS QATAR BLOCKED THE SAUDI ARABIA-LED BLOCKADE IMPOSED ON IT.

e it the backs of cars, buildings behind their ruler in a show of solidarity and the session of the 72nd Session of the United Nations under construction, or giant feeling is mutual as far as Qatar’s head of state is in New York, where he said: canvases with signatures of the concerned. “Maintaining the regional and international masses, the painting of the Emir In his address to the nation on July 21, shortly peace and security is a priority in the State of B HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad after the embargo was announced on June 5, Qatar’s foreign policy, whose principles and Al Thani by Qatari artist Ahmed Majid Al Ali Al 2017, Sheikh Tamim expressed his willingness objectives are based on the United Nations’ Maadheed has become the symbol of an entire to find a solution to the Gulf crisis, but refused charter and the rules of international legality country’s resolve to thwart the dubious intentions to bow down to any blackmail tactics. During his which call for constructive cooperation among of its hostile neighbours. speech broadcast on Qatar TV, he said: states, mutual respect and non-interference in The original ‘Tamim Al Majd’ (Tamim the “Any solution to the crisis must be based on the internal affairs, good neighbourliness, as well Glorious) painting was handed over to Sheikh two principles: first, the solution should be within as promoting peaceful coexistence and pursuing Tamim by Al Maadheed at the Al Bahr Palace the framework of respect for the sovereignty of peaceful means to settle disputes.” in July 2017 during the second month of the each state. Secondly, it should not be in the form “The issue of settling disputes by peaceful blockade imposed on Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the of orders by one party against another, but rather means is still being addressed as an episodic UAE, Bahrain and Egypt. as mutual undertakings and joint commitments and non-binding proposal. Perhaps the time has “I have no words to describe what I feel when binding to all.” come to impose dialogue and negotiation as a I see my illustration everywhere,” Al Maadheed “We are ready for dialogue and for reaching basis for resolving disputes through concluding told AFP earlier last year. “It’s a gift from God to settlements on all contentious issues in this an international convention on settling disputes have the honour to draw his majesty’s portrait context.” between states by peaceful means.” and have it become a symbol.” “As you know since the onset of the blockade, The year 2017 also saw Sheikh Tamim embark “I draw inspiration from my culture, from day-to-day life in Qatar has continued as upon tours of Africa, Asia and Europe which nature...but also from well-known figures. I’m normal. The Qatari people instinctively and resulted in his visiting a number of countries -– thankful God gave me the chance to create this naturally stood up to defend the sovereignty and Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, Guinea, sort of work...which expresses my love for the independence of their homeland.” Mali, Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Emir,” he added. Later that year, Sheikh Tamim reiterated Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Turkey, Germany Expatriates and locals alike have rallied his views when he participated in the opening and France. The agendas included further

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Qatari artist Ahmed Majid Al Ali Al Maadheed standing next to the ‘Tamim Al Majd’ during his exhibition at the Al Hazm Mall last year.

strengthening of Qatar’s foreign ties, finding a of Pluralism, Citizenship, and Religion in the celebrations. The significance of the National Day resolution to the conflict with its neighbours, and Middle East’, ‘Refugees and Cities’, and ‘Counter- parade was further magnified as the Father Emir joint projects for infrastructure development. terrorism’. HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani joined in In September, His Highness the Emir also In his speech, Indyk thanked Sheikh Tamim for the celebrations along with his son. attended the opening ceremony of the 13th edition supporting the forum, which assembled some of The motto of Qatar National Day 2017 was of the annual US-World Islamic Forum in New York. the world’s leading scholars and policymakers to inspired by a quote of Sheikh Tamim’s – Abshiru He met a number of dignitaries during the event deliberate on pressing global issues. He stressed bil-iz wal-khair (Promise of Prosperity and Glory). which included the Swedish State Secretary for the need to “continue to build bridges” between The Emir’s efforts over the course of last year Foreign Affairs Annika Soder, Somalia’s Minister the international communities to counter the have also put him in the good books of the for Foreign Affairs Yusuf Garaad Omar, High negative impact of terrorism. world’s most prominent leaders. In January Representative of the UN Alliance of Civilisations “It has been a long and difficult road and we still 2018, US President Donald Trump appreciated and representative of the UN Secretary-General have a long way to travel before we could say that Qatar’s activities in combating “terrorism and in the forum Nassir bin Abdulaziz Al Nasser, we have succeeded in building those bridges, but extremism”. head of the Turkish Parliament’s Foreign Affairs we have not desisted from it,” said Indyk. According to a White House statement, Trump Committee Taha Ozhan and Brookings Institution The other two high points of the year involving also reiterated his support for a united GCC that is executive vice- president Martin Indyk. Sheikh Tamim included his participation in “focused on countering regional threats”. Several issues of mutual concern were the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting in Trump’s statements come following US addressed, specifically the topics to be discussed Kuwait, despite Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain Secretary of State Rex Tillerson’s visit to Doha at the forum such as ‘Stabilisation in the Middle not sending their heads of states to the summit, when the US and Qatar had signed an agreement East and North Africa (MENA)’, ‘The Future and his presence during Qatar’s 10th National Day to counter terrorism financing in July 2017

20 ECONOMY

HE SHEIKH AHMED BIN JASSIM BIN MOHAMMED AL THANI MINISTER OF ECONOMY AND COMMERCE STATE OF QATAR PROGRESS 2017-2018 ECONOMY

BLOCKADE OPENS NEW VISTAS QATAR ANNOUNCED A SERIES OF MEASURES IN 2017 SUCH AS LIFTING THE MORATORIUM ON THE NORTH GAS FIELD IN APRIL, ISSUING A RECORD $9 BILLION EUROBOND SALE IN THE REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DEBT MARKETS IN MAY, AND TIGHTER MONETARY CONDITIONS AIMED AT CONTROLLING INFLATION.

he diplomatic rift between Qatar countries is expected to have limited impact Qatar but also for the other GCC countries”. on one side and a few other on growth in the region at this stage. However, The initial concern that trade disruptions could countries including Saudi Arabia, it noted that “a protracted rift could weaken affect the implementation of key infrastructure T Bahrain, Egypt and the UAE on medium-term growth prospects not only for projects has been mitigated by the availability the other had rattled the country initially but it of an inventory of construction materials and of amply provided new vistas and opportunities for alternative and competitive sources of imports, the world’s leading LNG exporter. said the IMF. Oil and gas continue to constitute the largest Following the blockade, Qatar started sector contributor to Qatar’s GDP at 30.3%, accelerating its efforts to further diversify followed by finance, insurance, and real estate sources of imports and external financing, and to which increased to 17.3%, construction at 11.9%, enhance domestic food processing. Some trade wholesale and retail trade at 10%, manufacturing has been re-routed through Kuwait and Oman, at 9%, transport and communications at 5%, and and alternative food supply sources have been the remaining 16.4% from other sectors. established, allaying fears of potential shortages. The rating agencies and funding organisations “Some financial pressures have emerged,” the were a bit pessimistic about Qatar after the IMF noted and said the downgrading of Qatar’s developments on June 5, but the country’s sovereign credit rating and outlook has raised economy and financial markets began adjusting interbank interest rates, and private sector to the impact after the initial shock. deposits (both resident and non-resident) have “WE NEVER MISSED A SHIP BECAUSE OF Moody’s, one of the global rating agencies, said THE BLOCKADE AND ALL OUR EXPORTS declined. that Qatar had spent roughly QR140.14 billion ARE ON SCHEDULE.” The IMF also said that the liabilities to foreign ($38.5 billion) to soften the blow of the embargo banks have fallen. The impact on banks’ balance HE SHEIKH AHMED BIN JASSIM BIN in its first two months, which was equivalent to MOHAMMED AL THANI sheets has thus far been mitigated by liquidity 23% of Qatar’s gross domestic product. MINISTER OF ECONOMY AND COMMERCE injections by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) and STATE OF QATAR In its regional outlook released in October, increased public sector deposits. Banks were the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said the proactively focusing on securing additional long- diplomatic rift between Qatar and four Arab term funding for their operations.

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“Reactions in GCC financial markets have also border “in the first few hours” to ensure that powerful. “We will certainly emerge from this been benign with initial spillovers dissipating its consumers did not feel the pinch in terms siege stronger...and Qatar will be different, rapidly. In the long run, a protracted rift could of supplying goods. “We never missed a ship benefiting from its experiences, and adapted to slow progress towards greater GCC integration because of the blockade and all our exports are the new reality.” and cause a broader erosion of confidence, on schedule,” he told CNBC. He said the government adopted alternative reducing investment and growth and increasing The Minister of Development Planning and routes of transport after the closure of its funding costs in Qatar and the rest of the GCC,” Statistics HE Dr Saleh bin Mohamed Al Nabit too land port and for compensation of deposits said the IMF. said that the country’s economy has proven its withdrawn from banks, and supported the strength and efficiency thanks to Qatar’s strategy, tourism sector with the decision to exempt BETTER THAN EVER plans and alternatives that have enabled it to citizens of 80 countries from visas. According to the Minister of Economy and withstand the current challenge. With regard to capital projects, Dr Al Nabit Commerce HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Addressing a seminar titled “The Qatari pointed out that the state had its reserves Mohammed Al Thani, the country’s finances were economy under the siege, steadfastness and by storing raw materials, and this gave an faring “better than ever” despite the embargo ascension”, he said Qatar has faced many crises opportunity to find alternatives that ensure the placed on Qatar and provided an opportunity and emerged stronger and never compromised implementation of projects on time and at the to explore new trade relationships with Turkey, on its freedom, sovereignty and dignity. same cost. Kuwait and Oman, among other countries. Though the crisis had a social impact on the Regarding the financial sector, Dr Al Nabit In fact, Qatar had put in place contingency people of the region as a whole, he exuded said this sector was undoubtedly affected by the plans to cope with the blockade of its land confidence that Qatar will come out more embargo imposed on the interest rate and its

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impact on credit rating, but he pointed out that with over 250% of GDP in public assets. “In fact, the report added. this was compensated by the increase in prices of compared with other countries in the region, hydrocarbons globally during this period as well Qatar ranks second behind Kuwait in terms of MINIMAL IMPACT as compensation through government deposits. total net foreign assets as a percentage of GDP, In its report a couple of months ago, the World giving it one of the strongest balance sheets Bank said that Qatar’s growth prospects have STRONGEST ECONOMY among its peers,” it said. weakened due to the diplomatic rift with its In its economic commentary on October 8, 2017 The QNB report found that in the short term neighbours but the large financial buffers were Qatar National Bank said that the economy the shock of the blockade was fading and in anchoring confidence in the economy, and good remained the strongest in the Middle East and the medium term it expects the blockade could infrastructure has provided space to blunt the North Africa region despite the blockade. actually be positive for Qatar as certain domestic impact of sanctions. Hydrocarbon exports continued uninterrupted, industries are set to benefit from the trade In the medium term, growth will be supported new trade routes established and the authorities vacuum created by it. by rising gas output and continued spending on were eager to attain a higher degree of economic The government also took a major decision the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Reforms protecting self-sufficiency. While the blockade initially in July to increase gas production by 30% in five foreign household workers and introduction of disrupted some economic activity, its impact has to seven years. This would entail a multi billion- permanent residency rights for expats will help dissipated. "Over the medium term, we expect dollar investment in a new pipeline and other with longer-term diversification efforts. the Qatari economy will prove resilient." infrastructure to extract the additional gas as The report said the growth in 2017 is Domestic industries will benefit from increased well as large facilities to process the gas, such as anticipated to slow to 2% from 2.2% in 2016 on self-reliance while the government’s plans to LNG gas trains. account of weaker activity and sentiment in the expand liquefied natural gas (LNG) production This decision will have important spillover non-hydrocarbon sector; this also reflects the and a renewed drive to attract international effects into the rest of the economy, drawing severing of diplomatic and trade ties by several tourists will drive future growth. in foreign workers, which in turn would raise Arab countries, including the Kingdom of Saudi According to a QNB report, the blockade has demand for housing, goods and services. In short, Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE and Egypt. impacted two main sectors of the economy – a boost in gas production would likely herald a “These countries constitute a small share the first and foremost direct impact has been new phase in Qatar’s economic development, of destination markets for Qatar’s exports and through trade. a relatively small proportion of financial and In the immediate aftermath of the blockade, FDI flows. Nevertheless, the boycott and the imports declined in June and remained subdued disruption of economic ties led initially to a sharp in July. But by August, they rebounded by 40%, drop in imports, requiring a (costly) diversion of almost returning to their pre-blockade level and merchandise and services trade and financial reflecting the quick adjustment in finding new flows through other neighbouring countries,” sources of imports and establishing new trade said the World Bank. routes. In September, Qatar inaugurated the QR26.94 “The recent opening of Hamad Port, already billion ($7.4 billion) Hamad Port, thereby securing one of the largest ports in the region, has alternative trading routes. Investor confidence been critical in supporting imports during the in the currency peg remains anchored by the blockade,” the report noted. country’s large stock of liquid external assets The banking sector was also affected as worth nearly QR655 billion ($180 billion), of a total uncertainty in the immediate aftermath of the stock of close to QR1.092 trillion ($300 billion), blockade triggered some deposit outflows. which have helped to contain the increase in risk “WE WILL CERTAINLY EMERGE FROM However, these outflows have dissipated in THIS SIEGE STRONGER...AND QATAR WILL premiums on sovereign and corporate debt. subsequent months as the impact on banks’ BE DIFFERENT, BENEFITING FROM ITS “The hydrocarbon sector, which constitutes EXPERIENCES, AND ADAPTED TO THE balance sheets was mitigated by liquidity NEW REALITY.” 80% of export earnings and 90% of government injections by QCB and increased public sector revenues, has been largely unaffected. Fiscal deposits. HE DR SALEH BIN MOHAMED consolidation is continuing, albeit, according to AL NABIT Overall, the banking sector remains resilient MINISTER OF DEVELOPMENT PLANNING AND some reports, at a slower pace. The fiscal deficit with high asset quality and strong capitalisation. STATISTICS is projected to decline to 5.7% in 2017 from over STATE OF QATAR The government remains comfortably resourced 8% in 2016,” the report further added

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PROGRESS 2017-2018 ECONOMY

QATARI BANKS WEATHER BLOCKADE STORM THE DIPLOMATIC DISPUTE BETWEEN QATAR AND SAUDI-LED BLOC COUNTRIES AND THE DOWNGRADING OF QATAR’S SOVEREIGN CREDIT FROM 'STABLE' TO 'NEGATIVE' HAD LITTLE IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE COUNTRY’S BANKING SECTOR IN THE FIRST THREE QUARTERS IN 2017.

he net profits and total assets of amongst its peers. Hence, in the short term, the that the blockade could actually be positive for almost all major banks registered shock of the blockade is fading,” said the analysis . Qatar as certain domestic industries would benefit an increase during this period In the medium term, the QNB report expects from the trade vacuum created by the blockade. compared with the first nine For example, a number of private sector T months of 2016. Though the net initiatives to make Qatar more self-sufficient in profits of Commercial Bank of Qatar came down food production have been launched and they by 47%, it also recorded growth in its total assets include large-scale dairy and poultry farms. Even performance along with others. local production of other goods was likely to However, the uncertainty that followed the benefit from the blockade and by government blockade triggered some deposit outflows from support in response to it. Qatar’s banking sector, but this dissipated in According to a report in The Financial Times, subsequent months. Even the International before the crisis overseas customer deposits Monetary Fund (IMF) said in a report that the made up about a quarter of all deposit funding impact on the banks’ balance sheets was in the banking sector but that has fallen to an mitigated by liquidity injections by the Qatar estimated 18-19%, according to rating agency Central Bank (QCB) and increased public sector Fitch. deposits. In June and July there were large net outflows An analysis by Qatar National Bank (QNB) said of non-domestic customer deposits of QR29.12 “QATAR’S ECONOMY IS CAPABLE OF that overall the banking sector remained resilient ENDURING ANY FINANCIAL SHOCK billion ($8 billion) and of foreign deposits and with high asset quality and strong capitalisation. CAUSED BY THE SIEGE IMPOSED BY borrowings of QR54.6 billion ($15 billion). FOUR ARAB COUNTRIES, AND I STRESS The government remains comfortably resourced THAT QATAR HAS ENOUGH LIQUIDITY TO However, in that period the government and with over 250% of GDP in public assets. ADDRESS ANY SHOCKS.” public sector had placed deposits in the banking “In fact, compared with the other countries in system of about QR69.16 billion ($19 billion), HE SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN the region, Qatar ranks second behind Kuwait in SAOUD AL THANI while QCB pumped in another QR32.76 billion ($9 terms of total net foreign assets as a percentage of GOVERNOR billion), said Fitch. Further, QCB statistics showed GDP, giving it one of the strongest balance sheets QATAR CENTRAL BANK that overall funding for the Qatari banking sector

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PERFORMANCE OF QATARI BANKS

Name of the bank Net profit Total assets Net profits Total assets (From Jan till Oct in 2017) (From Jan till Oct in 2016) Commercial Bank of Qatar QR259 million QR134 billion QR491 million QR23.9 billion Qatar Islamic Bank QR1.775 billion QR149 billion QR1.605 billion QR135 billion Qatar National Bank QR10.3 billion QR792 billion QR9.7 billion QR713 billion Ahli Bank QR518.2 million - QR503.5 million - Doha Bank QR1.05 billion QR92.4 billion QR1.02 billion QR84.4 billion Qatar Intl Islamic Bank QR700 million QR50.6 billion QR666.4 million QR43.1 billion Masraf Al Rayan QR1.562 billion QR98.61 billion QR1.560 billion QR86.95 billion

rose in August, up by 1% on July. billion) out of estimated reserves of QR1.28 trillion domestic assets of Qatar’s banks were about five Even Asian banks have been rolling over ($350 billion) to support its economy and financial times larger compared with the foreign assets this deposits, albeit at higher premiums of 25 to system during the first two months of the dispute. September, said QCB’s monthly statement. 30 basis points. QNB closed a QR2.293 billion Overall, the total assets of Qatar’s commercial ($630 million) Formosa bond issue in Taiwan in ROBUST GROWTH banks grew by about 13% year-on-year to September, signalling confidence among many According to QCB data, the country’s banking QR1.34 trillion in September 2017 mainly on Asian investors, the report added. sector witnessed a 16% year-on-year expansion faster expansion in credit off-take and securities Even the Ministry of Development Planning and in domestic assets in September 2017, while its portfolio. The domestic assets stood at QR1.11 Statistics (MDPS) has confirmed that the deposits foreign assets declined by more than 4%. The trillion, which accounted for about 83% of total by public sector undertakings with commercial assets, whereas foreign assets were to the tune of banks in Qatar have seen a 2.5% increase in QR0.23 trillion, or 17%, at the end of September September, totalling QR302.6 billion. On the 2017. other hand, cash equivalents (including deposits) The growing size of the domestic assets accounted for QR797.8 billion in September 2017, indicates the resiliency of the banking sector up by 17.5% compared with the corresponding amid the Gulf crisis that started in June. period in 2016. QCB Governor HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud Al Thani had earlier said that Qatar’s economy was EXPANDING GLOBAL OPERATIONS capable of enduring any financial shock caused Besides winning several awards from globally- by the siege imposed by four Arab countries, reputed institutions, local banks have expedited and stressed that Qatar has enough liquidity to the process of expanding their global footprint address any shocks. following the travel and trade restrictions since Among the total assets, total credit portfolio the middle of 2017. amounted to QR894.94 billion, which showed a Doha Bank, which has representative offices yearly growth of more than 12%. Domestic credit in Singapore, London, Turkey, Korea, Tokyo, “GIVEN THE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT HAVE grew by more than 12% to QR800.37 billion and ARISEN, WE CONSIDER THESE (QIIB) Australia, Canada, South Africa, Bangladesh, RESULTS AS OUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE foreign credit grew by about 10% to QR94.57 China, Frankfurt, Sharjah and Hong Kong, has QATARI ECONOMY, WHICH HAS PROVED billion. ITS RESILIENCE AND CAPABILITIES announced plans to open a full-fledged branch in IN THE FACE OF THE BLOCKADE AND Domestic credit constituted 89% of the Singapore. ATTEMPTS TO DWARF ITS GROWTH.” total credit, while foreign credit comprised the Following the dispute with Qatar, banks in the remaining 11% share in September 2017. Of the SHEIKH DR KHALID BIN THANI Saudi-led bloc started withdrawing funds from BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI domestic loans, credit to government reported Qatar’s banks, but rating agency Moody’s said CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR the fastest annual growth of 60% to QR167.77 that Qatar injected nearly QR146 billion ($40 QATAR INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC BANK billion, which accounted for 21% of the credit

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portfolio. Credit to the realty sector saw more only 2.6 million in Qatar, and Qatar National loans for Islamic banks between 2011 and 2016, than 9% growth to QR186.76 billion, which Bank – the largest bank in the Gulf Cooperation compared with 14% for the conventional banks,” accounted for 23% of total credit in September Council (GCC) region – dominates with a market said Bhojnagarwala. 2017. Personal loans rose by about 8% to QR123.5 share of more than 40% of domestic assets,” said The merger process is expected to be billion and those to trading grew by about 4% to Nitish Bhojnagarwala, Assistant Vice President at completed in early 2018. QR71.04 billion. Moody’s. The argument for consolidation has become Of the QR894.94 billion credit portfolio, the The report said that upon the successful more compelling now that lower oil and gas private sector accounted for QR526.03 billion completion of the merger, it would create an prices have trimmed state spending, curtailing (59% of the total), followed by the public sector entity with total assets amounting to around deposit growth and revenue generation. QR347.12 billion (39%) and non-banking financial QR173 billion ($48 billion) and a market share of institutions QR21.79 billion (2%), the data said. around 14%. BANKERS RELIEVED The downgrading by Moody’s might have “The combined entity would be the largest Expressing satisfaction over his bank’s implications for borrowing costs. Doha Bank Islamic bank in Qatar (ahead of Qatar Islamic performance, Qatar International Islamic Bank CEO Dr Raghavan Seetharaman told a news Bank) and the fourth-largest Islamic bank in the (QIIB) Chairman and Managing Director, Sheikh channel that economic sustainability was “not GCC,” said Bhojnagarwala. Dr Khalid bin Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani, said a challenge” for Qatar as its economy has been The report said that the enhanced franchise of the net profit shows that the bank was able to resilient. the merged entity would benefit from the growth overcome the challenges and maintain the stable “The outlook means the borrowing costs of Islamic assets in the GCC. growth rate that distinguishes it from other banks for the sovereign or institutions may go up “Islamic banking asset growth has outpaced for a long time now. “We are proud to achieve this slightly. It doesn’t imply anything beyond that,” conventional banking in Qatar, as demonstrated growth, which is primarily due to our engagement Seetharaman said and added: “There is nothing by a 21% compound annual growth rate of with the Qatari economy that provides rich and that can disturb the financial stability in the substantial opportunities.” medium and long term. Short-term turbulence “Given the circumstances that have arisen, we yes but there is nothing to worry about in medium consider these results as our contribution to the and long term and we must trust the economy.” Qatari economy, which has proved its resilience and capabilities in the face of the blockade and CONSOLIDATION ON THE ANVIL attempts to dwarf its growth,” he added. Another major development, which was reported Doha Bank Chairman Sheikh Fahad bin in 2016 but gained momentum last year, has Mohammad bin Jabor Al Thani described the been the proposed merger of three Qatari banks performance as outstanding and said that it – Masraf Al Rayan, Barwa Bank and International clearly demonstrated that they continued to Bank of Qatar. perform consistently. “The bank’s core revenue Once completed, the new entity would be the streams have shown strength over the prior year largest Islamic bank and second-largest in Qatar. period, reflecting on its intrinsic strength towards It would result in a more balanced competitive recurring earning capacity and also on productive environment in Qatar’s fragmented banking operational performance,” he said. system, according to a report from Moody’s “THE BANK’S CORE REVENUE STREAMS Ahli Bank Chairman and Managing Director, HAVE SHOWN STRENGTH OVER THE Investors Service. PRIOR YEAR PERIOD, REFLECTING ON Sheikh Faisal bin AbdulAziz bin Jassem Al Thani, The merger is at the due diligence stage and will ITS INTRINSIC STRENGTH TOWARDS said that amid challenging market conditions the RECURRING EARNING CAPACITY AND be subject to approval by the relevant authorities ALSO ON PRODUCTIVE OPERATIONAL bank delivered yet another resilient and stable and the three banks’ shareholders. “The merged PERFORMANCE.” financial performance. entity between the three banks would help to “Our results highlight our strength and SHEIKH FAHAD BIN MOHAMMAD rebalance the Qatari banking sector," the report BIN JABOR AL THANI ability to deliver the business plan and said. CHAIRMAN underlying initiatives, despite a difficult market “There are 18 banks serving a population of DOHA BANK environment,” he added

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QATAR REMAINS LARGEST LNG EXPORTER NOTWITHSTANDING THE BLOCKADE BY SOME COUNTRIES IN THE REGION SINCE JUNE 5, 2017 AND THE INCREASE IN LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG) EXPORTS FROM COUNTRIES LIKE AUSTRALIA, QATAR CONTINUED TO BE THE WORLD’S LEADING LNG EXPORTER LAST YEAR, A POSITION WHICH IT HAS HELD FOR OVER A DECADE.

o ward off any threat to its position identifying new markets for its fuel among the oil in the coming years, the government and gas-dependant economies in Asia such as has decided to invest more funds Bangladesh, Indonesia and Pakistan and long- and step up LNG production to over term agreements were signed with some of these T 100 million tons per annum (MTPA) countries in the second half of 2017. by 2024, from around 77 MTPA at present, which The agreement with Bangladesh was signed in would account for around 30% of global supplies September in the presence of Minister of Energy of the fuel. As part of the strategy, the government and Industry HE Mohammed Saleh Abdulla Al has announced the lifting of the moratorium on Sada, Bangladesh State Minister Nasrul Hamid, the development of its North Field reservoir. Qatar Petroleum President and Chief Executive Qatar’s share of global LNG supply stood Eng Saad Sherida Al Kaabi and others. According at 30.1% as it captured nearly 70% of the new to the agreement, Qatar’s RasGas will supply African demand, more than compensating for the Bangladesh with an annual supply of 1.8 million lower cargoes to Japan. Qatar’s position is likely tons of LNG for the first five years and 2.5 million to be cemented by its recent decision to boost tons per year for the remaining 10 years. “DRIVEN BY ITS BELIEF THAT BROTHERS production by 30% over the next 5-7 years. In a SHOULD NOT BE PENALISED FOR THE While Pakistan signed a $1 billion annual LNG report in October 2017, the International Monetary POLITICAL MISADVENTURES OF THEIR supply deal with Qatar to buy 2.75 MTPA of LNG GOVERNMENTS, QATAR HAS NOT Fund said that the Gulf dispute did not impact INVOKED THE LEGALLY VIABLE FORCE from 2016 to 2031 for a period of 15 years starting Qatar’s LNG exports, underscoring the blockade’s MAJEURE OPTION.” April 2016, Indonesia is expected to enter into a failure to stop LNG supplies to Southeast Asia, similar pact with Qatar in Q1 2018. and ensuring that the Gulf nation remained HE MOHAMMED SALEH ABDULLA AL SADA economically resilient. MINISTER OF ENERGY AND INDUSTRY NO FORCE MAJEURE OPTION Besides increasing production, Qatar has been STATE OF QATAR Delivering the keynote address at the sixth LNG

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12.2 17.2 Japan Other

11.3 2.7 India Middle East 2016 LNG EXPORTS FROM QATAR BY IMPORT COUNTRY (MT) Wood Mackenzie LNG Tool Mackenzie Wood 4.1 Egypt 9.9 Source: South Korea 4.9 China 7. 2 6.4 United Kingdom Taiwan

Producer-Consumer Conference held in Tokyo we found alternatives in record time.” Al Kaabi pointed out that Qatar has dealt with under the theme “Development of LNG Markets in Despite the diplomatic imbroglio with the UAE, the gas pipeline to the UAE in a civilised and Asia” in October, HE Mohammed Saleh Abdulla Al the Dolphin line, which supplies the Emirates with humanitarian manner and did not cut off gas to Sada said that the illegal blockade on Qatar by the gas, has renewed the government’s commitment the Emirates despite a force majeure clause it is Saudi-led bloc has not prevented it from honouring to all its pledges to supply oil and gas. entitled to. its contractual commitments and time schedules, As far as the joint gas field that Qatar shares without missing even one shipment to its valued with Iran is concerned, Al Kaabi said that there customers worldwide, including supplies to one of are agreements and clear borders and a joint the blockading countries. committee in place between the two countries. “Driven by its belief that brothers should not be “We have our projects and they have their projects penalised for the political misadventures of their and there is nothing new in this regard.” governments, Qatar has not invoked the legally viable force majeure option,” he said. He also CHALLENGES AHEAD expressed confidence that Qatar was determined Recent reports have suggested that, thanks to US to remain a leading player and a reliable supplier shale gas producers and Australia commissioning of LNG in the world. new LNG plants, Qatar may face fresh challenges Echoing similar feelings, Eng Saad Sherida Al to its LNG dominance for the first time ever since it Kaabi said the demand for LNG was increasing became the world’s largest LNG exporter a decade every year and Qatar was committed to providing ago. a large part of this need. “There is an expansion The global LNG market is no longer a seller’s in our investments inside and outside Qatar,” market as only some 5% of LNG deals were linked “WE HAVE FORMED A TEAM TO MANAGE he said. According to Al Kaabi, Qatar Petroleum THE CRISIS, IDENTIFIED THE PROBLEMS to spot prices or short-term contracts in the early overcame the repercussions of the blockade AND DEVISED STRATEGIES TO part of the last decade. But it rose to 28% in 2016. OVERCOME THEM. THE MAIN PROBLEM imposed by other countries in the region because WAS THE IMPORT OF SOME PRODUCTS Even the average duration of the agreement, of its strategies and plans in crisis management. FOR DAY-TO-DAY OPERATIONS, BUT WE which was 17 years at that time, has come down “We have formed a team to manage the crisis, FOUND ALTERNATIVES IN RECORD TIME.” to a single digit currently, indicating that the terms identified the problems and devised strategies to ENG SAAD SHERIDA AL KAABI are being dictated by the buyers. overcome them. The main problem was the import PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE However, Qatar has an advantage compared of some products for day-to-day operations, but QATAR PETROLEUM to newcomers like Australia and the US, who are

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planning another 100 MTPA of new production that exploring unconventional energy resources in threat to Qatar’s position comes from Australia in in the next three years, as its production cost is the country topped his list of priorities. the Asia-Pacific region, but even that will depend very low. It is expected to pursue a market share One of the major reasons for this decision is the on Australia’s continued investments in the sector. strategy that will make its LNG trade profitable. opening of the new $5.25 billion Panama Canal “The cost of LNG production in Qatar, which But the Vienna-based International Energy linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The new has the world’s third-largest proven natural gas Agency (IEA) said that the US is emerging as a canal, which was opened in June 2016, has more reserves (around 900 trillion cubic feet) after Russia serious contender to challenge Australia and than doubled the capacity of ships (from 5,000 and Iran, is less compared with its competitors Qatar and becoming the world’s leading exporter TEUs to around 14,000 TEUs) and is expected and it has already developed infrastructure like of the clean fuel. to help American oil and gas firms save nearly LNG production facilities, owns a fleet of ships to “The US shale revolution shows no sign of two weeks (in time) and one-third of the cost in transport gas, and has established a network of running out of steam and its effects are now transporting their LNG to new markets in South worldwide marketing operations,” he pointed out. amplified by a second revolution of rising LNG America, Asia and the Far East. With these measures, there is no exposure to supplies,” said IEA Executive Director Dr Fatih Birol. While the US began its first major international rising costs or overruns and Qatar can withstand While LNG prices have come down due to LNG shipments in 2016, the majority of its exports the price fluctuations in the markets. In the context surplus LNG production providing much-needed went to Latin American countries, particularly of prevailing low energy prices, the cost of shipping relief to energy-hungry nations like China and Chile and Mexico. Although it remains a small LNG from the US to Europe or Asia is prohibitively India, the IEA report pointed out that, as against share of global supply, the US entry into the LNG expensive. 15 LNG importing countries in 2005, their numbers export market represents a major shift. Dr Salameh said that Qatar also need not have more than doubled to 39, with new buyers However, energy expert and international oil reduce its LNG prices to defend its market share as including Pakistan, Jordan and Thailand. economist Dr Mamdouh G Salameh, in an interview the global demand for natural gas was projected However, the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies with Qatar Today, had said LNG exports from the to accelerate faster than any other energy source, (OIES) said that Qatar is in the perfect position US will not affect Qatar’s position in global gas including oil, coal and nuclear energy, according to to compete with the established LNG exporters, markets in the foreseeable future and the real ExxonMobil’s energy outlook to 2040. “Most global including Russia’s gas pipeline. gas contracts are based on oil-indexed prices. “The LNG market is decidedly different from Once oil prices rally, gas prices are expected to that in which it concluded long-term contracts rise as well, bolstered by strong global demand,” with Asian buyers in the 2000s. Qatar is back in he said. the business of new LNG supply, (but) in a more The entry of US shale gas in world markets will fractious market and with future price expectations help create an LNG price ceiling globally akin to somewhat foggy,” said OIES. shale oil creating a price ceiling for OPEC oil. It will Another factor in Qatar's favour is its also provide tough competition for anyone hoping geographical location. Apart from the ASEAN to build new LNG plants such as in East Africa, countries, which are closer to Australia, Qatar’s Canada or Russia, he added. supplies can reach North Africa, Europe and In its economic commentary in July 2017, Qatar most of the Asian markets at low cost. Even the National Bank said that the four developments Australian government’s controls directing local that took place in 2016 – a substantial increase in companies to meet domestic requirements before production from the US and Australia maintaining exporting the fuel to other countries are expected the state of excess supply in the market, the rising to help Qatar in retaining its position as a leader of demand from Asia, a concerted global effort to “MOST GLOBAL GAS CONTRACTS global LNG exports. ARE BASED ON OIL-INDEXED PRICES. adopt cleaner sources of energy, and deferred ONCE OIL PRICES RALLY, GAS PRICES investments – are widely expected to push the ARE EXPECTED TO RISE AS WELL, CAUTION ADVISED BOLSTERED BY STRONG GLOBAL market back into balance, potentially even into On the other hand, Qatar should be more watchful DEMAND.” undersupply, by around 2020. as US President Donald Trump’s aides have “Qatar, as one of the most nimble and cost- DR MAMDOUH G SALAMEH announced “An America First Energy Plan” on ENERGY EXPERT AND INTERNATIONAL OIL efficient producers, is well positioned to take the website of the White House hours after his ECONOMIST advantage by boosting its production as the swearing-in ceremony in January 2017, stating market rebalances,” it said

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A SAFE HAVEN FOR INVESTORS THE CABINET OF QATAR'S APPROVAL OF A DRAFT LAW IN OCTOBER 2016 THAT WILL ALLOW FOREIGN INVESTORS TO PROVIDE UP TO 100% OF THE CAPITAL FOR A PROJECT IN ANY SECTOR WAS PART OF ECONOMIC REFORMS INITIATED BY THE GOVERNMENT TO FURTHER MOVE AWAY FROM ITS DEPENDENCE ON HYDROCARBON REVENUES.

ccording to the draft law, if the MTs per year in the next couple of years is also billion), respectively. investor has a Qatari partner in the expected to entice investors. The sustained drop in inward investments into investment, that partner will serve According to the 'World Investment Report Saudi Arabia is partly responsible for the GCC’s as the services agent. Non-Qatari 2017,' the GCC economies altogether attracted inability to post notable figures. Saudi Arabia had A invested capital means “whatever is around QR76.1 billion ($20.9 billion) in 2016, some $39.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investments invested by a non-Qatari citizen in cash and/or in compared with QR84.81 billion ($23.3 billion) (FDI) in 2008, only to see the figures declining kind has the benefits of monetary value in Qatar.” in 2015. The corresponding figures for the two subsequently, with the UAE later emerging as the The non-Qatari investors can also own up to previous years – 2014 and 2013 – were QR75.34 primary recipient. The data on inward FDI into the 49% of the capital of companies listed on the billion ($20.7 billion) and QR81.9 billion ($22.5 kingdom stands at $7.5 billion in 2016; it was $8.1 Qatar Stock Exchange if they get approval from the billion in 2015. government, and potentially a higher percentage Foreign investment in Qatar increased by QR743 with approval from the cabinet. Citizens of other million in the second quarter of 2017, and between Gulf Cooperation Council member countries are 2011 and 2017 it averaged QR613.43 million, treated as Qatari citizens when it comes to the reaching an all-time high of QR3777 million in the ownership of companies listed on the Qatar Stock third quarter of 2012 and a record low of QR1744 Exchange. million in the fourth quarter of 2012. While the draft legislation may not have moved According to Trading Economics, an online heaven and earth in view of the prevailing low platform that provides historical data, economic energy prices, it certainly offered the overseas forecasts, news and trading recommendations of investors a glimpse into various sectors in which scores of countries, foreign investment in Qatar is they could park their funds. Qatar’s plans to attain expected to be QR566.48 million by the end of the self-sufficiency in food production, developing third quarter in 2017. tourism, and stepping up LNG production are some of the areas that domestic as well as foreign “THE NEW LAWS AND LEGISLATIVE INVESTOR-FRIENDLY investors could focus on. FRAMEWORKS INTRODUCED BY THE After the announcement of new economic policies, GOVERNMENT ARE INVESTOR-FRIENDLY The opening of the first phase of the Hamad AND OFFER SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES Qatar has been entering into bilateral agreements Port in September 2017 is expected to further TO THEM TO INVEST UP TO 100% with various countries including Turkey, Sri Lanka, boost the appetite of foreign investors as the port OWNERSHIP IN VARIOUS SECTORS.” the United Kingdom and Uganda, among others, connects several major destinations across the HE SHEIKH AHMED BIN JASSIM to seek investments. world. The government’s decision to increase the BIN MOHAMMED AL THANI Minister of Economy and Commerce HE Sheikh LNG production from the existing 77 MTs to 100 MINISTER OF ECONOMY AND COMMERCE Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani said STATE OF QATAR

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that Qatar has been one of the investor-friendly At the first meeting of the Joint Ministerial nations which has been following the introduction Committee on Economic, Commercial and of several major incentives for foreign investors. Technical Cooperation between Qatar and The incentives included exemption of foreign the UK, an agreement was reached to fund capital from income tax for ten years from the investment projects within Qatar worth QR21 date of the project’s commercial operation, not billion. imposing taxes on the imports of large machinery, HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed spare parts and raw materials, and allowing the Al Thani said the global and regional changes transfer of profits abroad and the transfer of have imposed important economic and political company ownership free of charge. challenges over the past years and have affected Addressing the Qatari-Sri Lankan Business the world’s major economies. Forum in Qatar recently, the minister said: “The “Qatar has been able to meet these challenges new laws and legislative frameworks introduced and strengthen its position as one of the strongest by the government are investor-friendly and offer regional economies and among the most several opportunities to them to invest up to 100% “WITH QATAR ALL SET TO IMPLEMENT promising economies at the global level,” he said. ownership in various sectors.” VAT, IT IS A CLEAR INDICATION OF THE The UK is the ninth-biggest trading partner of GOVERNMENT LOOKING AT VARIOUS The new economic policies adopted by SOURCES TO EXPAND ITS ECONOMY BY Qatar and the volume of trade between the two the government are aimed at increasing the MOVING AWAY FROM HYDROCARBON countries was about QR11.6 billion in 2016. The partnership between the public and private REVENUES AND TOWARDS A NON-OIL minister further said that the UK is an important ECONOMY.” sectors, which has been instrumental in realising investment partner of Qatar, where the number of the objective of diversifying the economy and YOUSUF MOHAMED AL JAIDA British companies operating in the Qatari market developing the contribution of non-oil sectors, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER reached about 79 with a total capital of QR8.1 QATAR FINANCIAL CENTRE AUTHORITY which stood at nearly 70% of GDP in 2016, he said. billion.

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QATAR FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT - NET INFLOWS 1400 1317 1262 1251 1200

1023 1000 945 947 939 QAR Million 800 743 717 666 600 511

400

200 116

0 TRADINGECONOMICS.COM | QATAR CENTRAL BANK | QATAR TRADINGECONOMICS.COM SOURCE: Jul Jan Jul Jan Jul Jan Jul 2014 2015 2015 2016 2016 2017 2017

MORE REFORMS URGED ROBUST GROWTH countries amounted to QR47.5 billion (36% Speakers attending the sixth edition of the In its updated report titled “Qatar Foreign of the total), followed by the European Union Euromoney Conference in December 2017 opined Investment Survey 2015,” the Ministry of QR39 billion (29%), from the US it was QR30.8 that more reforms in the country’s economy would Development Planning and Statistics (MDPS) billion (23%), and from Asia (excluding the Gulf further pave the way for foreign entities to invest said the foreign investments into Qatar grew by Cooperation Council) it was QR6.7 billion (5%). in Qatar. They also felt that the opening of critical 11% year-on-year to QR537.3 billion, with FDIs The country’s total overseas investments sectors will set the agenda for foreign investors, alone accounting for about one-fourth of them. expanded by about 12% year-on-year to which in turn will help in the diversification of the Of the total inward foreign investments, QR378.3 billion, with foreign other investments economy. foreign other investment (excluding financial amounting to QR212.1 billion, while FDI and Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority CEO derivatives) stood at QR332.4 billion, while foreign portfolio investments amounted to Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida said the opening up of FDI and foreign portfolio investments stood at QR130.8 billion and QR35.4 billion, respectively. sectors like real estate would help in attracting QR133 billion and QR71.9 billion, respectively, Of the total outward QR130.8 billion FDI, foreign investments and there was also a need to said one of the English dailies in Qatar, citing the it was said that the finance and insurance leverage the country’s public private partnerships MDPS report. sectors accounted for QR47.5 billion (36% of the (PPP) model. About 90% of inward FDI was accounted for total), followed by transportation and storage, “With Qatar all set to implement VAT, it is a clear by oil and gas and associated downstream information and communication QR39.9 billion indication of the government looking at various manufacturing and other activities such as (31%) and mining and quarrying QR35.7 billion sources to expand its economy by moving away transportation and marketing. In terms of the (27%). from hydrocarbon revenues and towards a non- book value of investments, manufacturing Qatar had FDI abroad in about 80 countries, oil economy,” he said, and added that the new activities accounted for 56% of the total value of the report said, adding that the top four groups labour reforms would further the strengthening FDI, followed by mining and quarrying (33%) and of countries accounted for a relative share of of workers’ rights and that would have a positive financial and insurance activities (6%) at the end 82% of the total amount at the end of 2015. impact on the economy. of 2015. Qatar’s FDI in the European Union amounted “The QFC is an important part of Qatar’s strategy Manufacturing saw QR74.5 billion worth of to QR44.6 billion (34% of the total outward to diversify its economy and we will continue to FDI, followed by mining and quarrying (QR43.3 FDI), followed by the Gulf Cooperation Council attract FDI by offering a competitive platform for billion) and finance and insurance (QR7.5 - QR31.8 billion (24%), other Arab countries - businesses to expand in Qatar,” said Al Jaida. billion). QR19.5 billion (15%) and Asia (excluding Gulf On region-wise classification, FDI from other and other Arab countries) - QR11.1 billion (8%)

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PARADISE REGAINED THE TURMOIL IN THE QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE (QSE) THAT FOLLOWED THE SEVERING OF COMMERCIAL AND DIPLOMATIC TIES BY SOME COUNTRIES IN THE GCC REGION ON JUNE 5, 2017 DISSIPATED WITHIN 72 HOURS. THE STOCK MARKET FELL 7.6% ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE BOYCOTT, BUT REGAINED 3% WITHIN THREE DAYS.

t may be recalled that when similar September 2017. restrictions were imposed on Qatar by According to a QSE statement, 44 out of 45 three neighbouring countries led by companies listed on the bourse had disclosed Saudi Arabia in March 2014, the stock their financial statements for the first nine months I market crashed but restored normalcy of 2017, which revealed that the combined net within a day, indicating that such developments profit of all companies as of September 30, 2017 always had minimal impact on the market. The amounted to QR29.3 billion as against QR31.1 bourse is the largest emerging market in the billion for the corresponding period in 2016, a region and the second largest in the GCC in terms decrease of 6%. of market capitalisation. The year under review also saw a growing REPERCUSSIONS COUNTERED interest among family-owned businesses in Qatar In an interview, QSE Chief Executive Officer Rashid to go public with Investment Holding Group’s bin Ali Al Mansoori affirmed that the bourse has (IHG) $138 million offering of 60% of its share proved its ability to counter the repercussions capital in August. IHG is the first family business “THE EXIT OF THESE (GCC) of the current blockade and highlighted its in Qatar to list its shares and another 10 family- PORTFOLIOS WILL NOT HAVE ANY investment attractiveness based on strong macro SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE QATARI owned companies in Qatar are said to have MARKET, CONSIDERING THE BUYING and micro economic fundamentals. evinced interest in offering shares in the coming OPPORTUNITIES, GIVEN THEIR SMALL He said that since the attempts to impose the years. With this, the number of listed companies MARKET PERCENTAGE AND THE READINESS OF OTHER LOCAL AND blockade, some Saudi and Emirati portfolios had on QSE increased to 45. INTERNATIONAL PORTFOLIOS TO ENTER tried to distract the market during the first two The market capitalisation fell by 2.31% at the THE MARKET IN A BULLISH TREND.” days of the crisis by offering large quantities of end of October 2017 and was around QR444 shares for sale. However, these attempts failed RASHID BIN ALI AL MANSOORI billion compared with QR454 billion at the end of CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER and the market had corrected itself since local QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE

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investors as well as the US and British portfolios has also witnessed great interest from Qatari infrastructure, fair and orderly market, healthy entered the market, and consequentially the investors and businessmen who entered the investor relations and transparency practices average daily trading value has increased from market to buy during the crisis,” Al Mansoori and a robust regulatory framework combined QR250 million to QR450 million per day. pointed out. with a clear long-term strategy (five-year business The size of the portfolios from the Saudi Arabia- On the impact of the GCC portfolios exiting plan). This strategy is mainly based on the led bloc nations in the Qatari market was less the market, Al Mansoori said that QSE was open development of the IPO market, through listing than QR6 billion, which is miniscule compared to all GCC investors wishing to enjoy investment more companies in order to enhance liquidity with QSE’s market capitalisation of around QR500 privileges based on the strong fundamentals of in the market, as well as the diversification of billion. the Qatar economy, the robustness of the listed investment instruments and innovative services,” In tune with the directives of The Emir HH companies and the high rates of dividends. said Al Mansoori. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, GCC nationals “The exit of these (GCC) portfolios will not have Showing confidence in the Qatari stock enjoyed the same privileges enjoyed by Qatari any significant impact on the Qatari market, market, over 100 foreign investment portfolios citizens with respect to investments in QSE-listed considering the buying opportunities, given their opened new accounts in just one week to trade companies. small market percentage and the readiness of in the shares of QSE-listed companies. “This large other local and international portfolios to enter turnout by foreign portfolios and international INVESTOR APPLICATIONS the market in a bullish trend,” he averred. investment instructions reflects the strong “In fact, we have received more than 140 investor He continued: “In the light of the blockade, fundamentals of Qatar’s economy and the applications from new foreign investment there is no need for any counteractions. We investment attractiveness of QSE and its listed portfolios wishing to enter QSE and the market are well prepared and enjoying advanced companies,” he said.

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QIA: A HELPING HAND WHEN SOME NATIONS IN THE GCC IMPOSED THE TRADE AND TRAVEL EMBARGO ON QATAR IN JUNE, SPECULATION WAS RIFE THAT QATAR INVESTMENT AUTHORITY (QIA), THE COUNTRY’S STATE-OWNED HOLDING COMPANY WHICH SPECIALIZES IN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN INVESTMENTS, WOULD SELL OFF ITS TROPHY ASSETS TO HELP THE COUNTRY OVERCOME THE ECONOMIC CRISIS.

IA is a sovereign wealth fund always going to be an accounting adjustment. If QIA’s Chief Executive HE Sheikh Abdullah bin founded by the government in we look at what we have been holding in the last Mohamed bin Saud Al Thani also said that there 2005 to strengthen the country’s 10 years, we still have the same assets as of today were no plans to liquidate foreign assets -– as economy by diversifying into and I don’t think we are going to give up these some investors had speculated -– and that the Q new assets around the world. assets anytime soon,” he added. fund would soon announce big new international The total value of the assets it holds is said investments. to be around QR1.2 trillion ($330 billion) as of September 2017. EXPANSION PLANS QIA is among the world’s top 10 biggest “We have just completed a tour of several sovereign wealth funds and in ninth position countries around the world and you will hear on the Sovereign Wealth Fund Rankings by the about significant investments soon,” HE Sheikh Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute. QIA has not only Abdullah said without elaborating further on the repatriated around QR72.8 billion ($20 billion) to investment plans and added that the sanctions rejuvenate Qatar’s economy but also announced against Qatar had not affected their investment plans to expand its holdings in different countries. strategy. Qatar’s Minister of Finance HE Ali Shareef Al According to a Reuters report, the chief Emadi confirmed that QIA had brought back executive’s comments were in line with the more than QR73 billion into the country since observations by a private banker familiar with the standoff with its neighbours, which began QIA’s operations, who said that he had not in June, but denied it had to make asset sales to noticed any major asset sales by the fund in the raise the money. “WE ARE NOT LIQUIDATING ANYTHING past two months. Even if it sold something, it was “We are not liquidating anything and we have AND WE HAVE BROUGHT SOME OF OUR said to be part of normal portfolio rebalancing LIQUIDITY FROM OUTSIDE TO INSIDE. brought some of our liquidity from outside to THIS IS THROUGH THE MINISTRY OF as happened in the past when the government inside. This is through the Ministry of Finance and FINANCE AND QIA, WHICH IS VERY reduced its stake in the Agricultural Bank of NORMAL IN THIS KIND OF SITUATION. QIA, which is very normal in this kind of situation. THE MEASURE WE HAVE TAKEN IS China. The measure we have taken is much more of a MUCH MORE OF A PRE-EMPTIVE AND Despite political changes in the UK (Brexit) and pre-emptive and precautionary one,” he told The PRECAUTIONARY ONE.” a change of guard in the United States, QIA has Financial Times in an interview. drawn up plans to step up operations in both HE ALI SHAREEF AL EMADI “Since we are not trading in our portfolio, it is MINISTER OF FINANCE countries and will will invest QR23 billion (£5 STATE OF QATAR

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billion) in the UK in the coming years. said that Katara was in the pipeline and Qatar QIA has invested QR127 billion (£35 billion) Airways could be next in line. “These are the two in the UK and owns The Savoy Hotel, Harrods companies that we see on our radar in the mid department store and the Shard skyscraper, said term. We are trying to create a good portfolio to be the tallest structure in western Europe, for them,” he said during an interaction at among others. The authority has announced Georgetown University in Qatar. plans to invest around QR164 billion ($45 billion) On supporting local entities, he said that in the US by 2020. QIA has been working on a strategy for many With energy prices on the road to recovery, domestic entities such as Katara, Qatar Airways QIA has started buying stakes in Turkey’s biggest and others. The authority will support them poultry producer, Russian oil giant Rosneft and financially besides providing them with human UK energy company National Grid Plc. Qatar is capital. “We will accept at least 10 graduates also contemplating investing in a QR364 billion from the Education City campuses. We will also ($100 billion) global technology fund formed by provide all other assistance they need,” he said. SoftBank Group Corp. However, no final decision “WE HAVE JUST COMPLETED A TOUR QIA has adopted a proper strategy to has been taken so far. OF SEVERAL COUNTRIES AROUND THE reallocate its investment as well as diversification WORLD AND YOU WILL HEAR ABOUT SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS SOON.” in geographical areas. “These all are part of the DOMESTIC INVESTMENTS new strategy which is working well. One of them Apart from stepping up the pace of investments HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN is allocating assets that can help us in facing a globally, the authority has hinted at investing in MOHAMED BIN SAUD AL THANI crisis such as the present one, or making use of CHIEF EXECUTIVE the local Katara Hospitality group and national QATAR INVESTMENT AUTHORITY the opportunities that you would get. This allows carrier Qatar Airways besides the SMEs in Qatar. you to move your liquidity from one place to Providing further details, HE Sheikh Abdullah another,” he added

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INSURANCE UNSCATHED LED BY SAUDI ARABIA, WHEN SOME OF THE COUNTRIES IN THE REGION ANNOUNCED TRADE, AIR, SEA AND ROAD TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ON QATAR IN JUNE, THE FIRST AND FOREMOST QUESTION THAT CAME TO THE MINDS OF INSURERS AND RE-INSURERS WAS HOW IT WOULD IMPACT THEIR OPERATIONS.

ortunately, barring these nations, insurance in Qatar. The insurance sector is Qatar Central Bank’s the rest of the world offered The expansion of compulsory insurance largest segment in the country’s financial sector bountiful opportunities to the schemes and the increase in tariffs have boosted and has been playing an important role in view insurers based in Qatar and most insurance activity in the country in the last few of the government spending on infrastructure- F of them have started tapping the years. related projects, besides the growing contribution markets not only in the region but in other parts of non-hydrocarbon revenues. of the world as well. Not to lose its business, the UAE, which is EXPANDING GLOBAL FOOTPRINT among the nations which announced the boycott, Coming to the impact due to the trade embargo, renewed the business licence of Qatar Insurance since these sanctions are limited to a few Company’s (QIA) branch in Abu Dhabi a few weeks countries in the region, Qatari insurance firms are ago. The branch will continue to conduct normal free to do business in other major centres such activities, according to a statement posted by the as Oman, the US, Hong Kong, London, Singapore company on the Qatar Stock Exchange website. and Africa. The Abu Dhabi branch of Qatar Insurance Qatar Insurance, which is the country’s first Company has been operating in the Emirates domestic firm and the MENA’s largest insurer by since 2002 and underwrites gross premiums market capitalisation, has been focusing on new estimated at about QR110 million ($30.2 million) countries to offset the trade ban by the Saudi-led per year and this clearly indicates that the UAE bloc. has not issued any directives to the Qatar-based The company’s Chief Executive Officer Salem “AFRICA’S INSURANCE MARKET CARRIES insurance firms to shut down their operations VARIOUS OPPORTUNITIES, THANKS Khalaf Al Mannai said the political crisis has as part of the economic restrictions imposed on TO THE STRONG ECONOMIC GROWTH made them explore newer markets like Oman. POTENTIAL AS A RESULT OF AN June 5. EMERGING MIDDLE INCOME CLASS AND “In the past three months, we have secured The combined revenues of all insurance INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS. THE business in Oman that is equivalent to our Abu DYNAMICS OF THE MARKET IS SIMILAR companies in the country was around QR11 billion TO WHAT HAS BEEN EXPERIENCED IN Dhabi business. The UAE business, though a ($3 billion) in 2016, that is 1.5% of the nation’s THE MIDDLE EAST.” strategically very important market, represents GDP. This penetration rate, which remains very a small percentage of the overall QIC Group low compared with the other countries of the DR HAITHAM AL SALAMA business,” he said. CHIEF ECONOMIC ADVISOR MENA, suggests a strong growth potential for QFC AUTHORITY In fact, Oman Qatar Insurance Company

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(OQIC), which is the leading insurance company the low insurance penetration, the recovery of conflict, political upheavals and social disruption, in Oman and a subsidiary of Qatar Insurance, has commodity prices and the continent’s need although geopolitical tensions have been reaped success by announcing the successful for infrastructure. Africa’s young and growing elevated to new levels since June 5. closure of the initial public offering (IPO) of 25% of population, its expanding middle class and its total share capital, in Oman, three months ago. technological innovations, which alter consumer GROWTH IN WRITTEN PREMIUMS The OMR 4 million IPO was oversubscribed habits, drive demand and create product The Ministry of Development Planning and 1.4 times, with strong demand from both retail opportunities as well as new avenues for Statistics said that there was a growth of 150% in and institutional investors, making it one of the distribution, the report added. written premiums amounting to QR13.45 billion successes in 2017. in 2016, compared with QR5.3 billion in 2012. The recently released second edition of the MINIMAL IMPACT Meanwhile, the number of insurance policies Africa Reinsurance Pulse report said that Africa’s The impact on insurers’ business profiles as a result rose by around 55% in 2016 compared to 2012. QR24.75 billion ($6.8 billion) re-insurance market of the current Gulf crisis is likely to be negligible, Car insurance had the lion’s share of the was on the path to recovery and insurance but of greater concern are insurers’ exposures to market, registering a growth of 62%, and it companies were looking forward to exploring Qatar’s stock and real estate markets, the global accounted for 963,000 policies in 2016, up from the market. The report was facilitated with the rating agency AM Best said in a report. 593,868 policies in 2012. support of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Africa The agency said that Qatar’s insurance market The other segments which contributed to the Re, the African Insurance Organisation (AIO) and remains dominated by local insurers. With the spurt in written premiums were cargo, fire and Tunis Re. exception of Qatar Insurance Company, they theft insurance. While cargo insurance policies In 2016, Africa’s GDP growth dropped to 2.1%, are largely single market players with limited were 25,361, the fire and theft segments added below the global average of 3.2%. Insurance overseas exposure. Similarly, most GCC insurers another 9,863 policies. premiums declined by 15.3% to QR222.04 billion concentrate on their domestic market with limited At present, there are 18 insurance firms ($61 billion). However, the contraction is mainly premium exposure to Qatar, although some may operating in Qatar and the sector expanded due to the depreciation of some key African have assets invested in the country. rapidly due to government spending, economic currencies against the US dollar. For 2018, re- Many insurers will have sizeable exposures to, developments, awareness among the locals insurance and brokerage executives expect and concentration within, Qatar’s equity and real and the growing influx of expats regarding the results to improve markedly as the underlying estate markets. This is likely to create volatility, advantages of insurance policies. market fundamentals remain largely unscathed particularly over the short term, in risk-adjusted According to the Moody’s report, the insurance from the current decline. capitalisation and operating performance, the industry witnessed a compound annual growth “Africa’s insurance market carries various agency added. rate (CAGR) of 21% between 2005 and the end opportunities, thanks to the strong economic Additionally, restrictions on airspace, land of 2015 and Qatar became the third-largest growth potential with an emerging middle borders and sea transportation against Qatar insurance market in the region, accounting for income class and infrastructure investments. are likely to impact the marine, aviation and around 10% of premiums written in the region. The dynamics of the market are similar to what transport insurance lines. Reduced economic In a separate report, Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has been experienced in the Middle East,” said Dr activity could also result in declining insured said that the aggregate balance sheet of Qatar’s Haitham Al Salama, Chief Economic Advisor, QFC amounts for property and business interruption domestic insurance firms grew by 13.3% to Authority. insurance. QR44.5 billion at the end of 2016, compared with According to him, the two regions were However, the agency said that Qatari insurers QR39.3 billion in 2015. driven by certain underlying fundamentals generally have strong balance sheets with low net In its Eighth Financial Stability Review report, such as population growth, changing habits underwriting risk and surplus capital to absorb QCB said the insurance sector’s growth was of consumption, new technologies and the volatility in equity and real estate markets. Over healthy and on par with the growing banking necessity to diversify the economy away from the the short term, the agency expects a limited assets in 2016. In the case of Qatari underwriters, dependence on a few, dominant commodities. impact on the credit quality of insurers. However, there was sharp growth in cash and liquid Given these similarities, understanding the African if the situation persists over a longer period then assets followed by investments in fixed maturity experience would be key for both policymakers the economic repercussions on Qatar may be investments. and companies who seek opportunities in the more severe and its effects could begin to impact Gross Written Premium rose by 11.8% during region. the insurance sector and the rating fundamentals the year and stood at QR12.6 billion by the end of Contrary to the development in US dollar of A.M. Best-rated national insurers, the report December in 2016. The contribution of domestic terms, in original currencies most African said. insurers in Qatar was QR12.3 billion and that of insurance markets continued to grow in 2016. The Middle East and North Africa region is their international branches was QR0.3 billion, Going forward, they are expected to benefit from accustomed to turbulent times with periodic respectively

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ISLAMIC FINANCE: GOING GREAT GUNS QATAR’S PREPARATIONS FOR HOSTING THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP IS EXPECTED TO GO OFF SMOOTHLY AS THE GOVERNMENT NOT ONLY HAS VAST RESOURCES WHICH IT HAS BEEN GENERATING BY EXPORTING LNG AROUND THE WORLD BUT ALSO BECAUSE OF ITS VIBRANT ISLAMIC FINANCE MARKET.

n fact, Qatar has earned a place among decision-making. Awareness about the concept economy and what it will look like by 2030, the “Top 10” nations in the world for of Halal is on the rise and companies are which could see the emergence of numerous its “best developed ecosystem” for responding to these consumer needs. scaled global enterprises if core challenges and Islamic finance and the value of its “For the first time, we have done an opportunities are addressed,” he added. I Islamic market was estimated to be assessment of the future state of the Islamic The report said that the Sukuk industry around QR265.72 billion ($73 billion) in 2015. The continues to mature, with a number of debut country has also been rated as the top “Muslim Sukuk issuances over the past year and more consumer travel expenditure market” and was in the pipeline. Further propelling growth is the worth around QR42.59 billion ($11.7 billion) in adoption of Islamic FinTech, be it the world’s 2015. first Shariah-compliant robo-advisory firm or the According to the State of Global Islamic first Sharia-compliant gold platform. Notably, Economy Report 2017-2018, which was such endeavours have been achieved through recently issued by the Dubai Islamic Economy utilising crowdfunding, the report said. Development Centre (DIEDC) in collaboration with Thomson Reuters, the assets of the Islamic SOLID GROWTH finance sector, which were estimated at over In the Islamic Finance Country Index, which is QR7.28 trillion ($2 trillion) in 2016, were expected part of the Global Islamic Finance Report 2017 to surge to QR13.83 trillion ($3.8 trillion) by 2022. and compiled by London-based Islamic finance The report further said that the Islamic consultant firm Edbiz Consulting, Qatar has been economy continued to evolve, driven by young ranked ninth, which shows the considerable “FOR THE FIRST TIME, WE HAVE DONE Muslims asserting their values and requiring AN ASSESSMENT OF THE FUTURE STATE strength of its Islamic finance industry. Malaysia companies to provide products and services OF THE ISLAMIC ECONOMY AND WHAT IT has been ranked number one in the index and WILL LOOK LIKE BY 2030, WHICH COULD that meet their faith-based needs. SEE THE EMERGENCE OF NUMEROUS is followed by Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Nadim Najjar, Managing Director of MENA, SCALED GLOBAL ENTERPRISES IF CORE Kuwait, respectively. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES ARE Thomson Reuters, said that the Islamic economy ADDRESSED.” The index is the oldest and most respected, has been on the cusp of major growth and ranking different countries with regards to the widespread recognition, having gained traction NADIM NAJJAR state of Islamic banking and finance. Launched MANAGING DIRECTOR, MENA, THOMSON as Muslims increasingly assert their religiosity REUTERS in 2011 with 36 reviewed countries, the 2017 and traditional values in their economic index meanwhile has a sample of 48 nations.

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Qatar’s ranking is testament to its solid Islamic Currently, the global Islamic finance industry for property financing demand in London. QIB- finance industry, which is solely built upon fully- is growing at more than 15% per year and this UK, part of the Qatar Islamic Bank group, and fledged Islamic banks which do not operate is driven by the growth in the Muslim population Al Rayan Bank, a UK subsidiary of Qatar-based Islamic windows. (estimated at 1.6 billion), Muslim economies Masraf Al Rayan have both recently expanded While this is an indicator for a high “purity” of and the global integration of economies. It is offices and services to meet demand. Islamic finance in Qatar, the country has been also worth noting that 10 of the world’s 24 rapid According to media reports, QIB UK has begun surpassed in this year’s index by Bahrain and growth markets have large Muslim populations. providing Sharia-compliant Murabaha facilities Pakistan which allow a more diluted Islamic One of the major reasons that have been for London properties. The product will allow finance system, including Islamic windows at attributed to the stupendous growth and appeal financing of buy-to-live properties as well as conventional banks and Islamic finance vehicles in Islamic finance has been that during the 2008 refinancing customers’ existing properties in that wouldn’t pass Shariah approval in Qatar. global financial crisis, financial institutions London. The report concluded that the ranking and structures that were Shariah-compliant Murabaha is a contract of exchange based suggested that countries with large Muslim performed far better than their conventional on sale-and-purchase contracts with a populations are the future frontiers for growth counterparts. predetermined cost and profit. The seller states in Islamic banking and finance and therefore Shariah-compliant structures are the cost he has incurred on the asset to be sold it would be absolutely imperative for Islamic characterised by transactions that are asset- and sells it to another person by adding some banking institutions based in the Middle East backed or asset-based, and the “ring fencing” profit or mark-up to the buyer. and Southeast Asia to expand their businesses of assets or cash flows results in a far less "The fusion of knowing our customers for over into these countries with growth potential. leveraged financial system as well as enhanced three decades in Qatar and our experience in the transparency. London property market means we are perfectly FUNDING INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS placed to help them find the right property and Even the Islamic Development Bank and the NEW TECHNOLOGIES get the most from their investment," said Duncan World Bank Group, which jointly published a Dr Haitham Al Salama, Chief Economic Advisor Steele-Bodger, Chief Executive Officer of QIB-UK. report, said that Shariah-compliant assets have at Qatar Financial Centre Authority, said that QIB-UK offers its customers a range of Sharia- grown exponentially in the past two decades, the size of the Shariah-compliant banking and compliant banking services, including Current accumulating nearly QR6.91 trillion ($1.9 trillion) financial market has great untapped growth Accounts in GBP, which allows for convenient in assets and spreading across 50 Muslim and potential as a significant number of the Muslim settlement of UK payments, cheques, inward non-Muslim countries around the world. population still do not have access to interest- and outward transfers, direct debits, standing Countries such as Qatar, which are engaged in free financing services. orders and more. Additionally, the bank offers development of infrastructure on a large scale, Dr Haitham said that Islamic finance has Wakala Deposits, Instant Access Savings can explore the possibility of utilising these enjoyed double-digit growth rates over the past Accounts, Notice Accounts and other premium funds for the projects. decade globally. As the Muslim population of products and services at attractive rates. Malaysia has extensive experience in using around 1.6 billion has low access to financial As for Al Rayan Bank, which opened its new Islamic financial instruments to support services, this presents a big growth potential for London office recently, commercial property infrastructure development – the data shows the sector. financing was the fastest-growing element of the 61% of the world’s infrastructure Sukuk Highlighting how Fintech was disrupting the bank’s real estate asset book in 2016, climbing was issued out of Malaysia and the Global industry, he said: “Fintech is expected to change 44% to QR1,938.79 million (£396.5 million). Infrastructure Investment Index 2016 ranks the traditional models of Islamic financial Customers chose commercial property Malaysia as the second most attractive services and support the sector's growth by finance from Al Rayan Bank for many reasons, destination for infrastructure investment in Asia, creating new instruments, increasing efficiency said Maisam Faisal, head of commercial property and the fifth in the world. and reducing the cost of operations. It will also finance at Al Rayan Bank. Though Islamic finance assets represent only improve access and therefore increase the asset Al Rayan Bank has financed projects ranging around 1% of the global financial market, the base of the sector.” from town retail parks, mixed-use industrial emerging markets and developing economies warehouses and student property. It has also can tap these funds as they are facing an EXPANDING GLOBAL FOOTPRINT worked on a number of syndication deals, infrastructure finance gap of QR1.64 trillion The subsidiaries of two Doha-based Islamic enabling it to fund larger projects such as the ($452 billion) every year. banks in the UK are expanding services to cater former Olympic Village site in east London

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ALI BIN ALI HOLDING: A HISTORY RICH IN ACHIEVEMENTS ALI BIN ALI HOLDING, ONE OF THE MAJOR PRIVATE SECTOR COMPANIES, IS ONE OF THE MOST RENOWNED AND TRUSTED ECONOMIC GROUPS OPERATING IN QATAR AND THE GULF IN THE PAST SEVEN DECADES SINCE 1945.

he group has a rich history Qatar in June 2017. Moreover, the group is well known for its of distinguished franchises, In 2017 the group completed, at a faster pace, proactive initiatives in the field of customer partnerships and trade relations its work in the Katara Plaza project including services and its innovative means in satisfying the all over the world through a Galeries Lafayette and Evian Spa to meet the clients and providing the best quality services and T diverse group of companies deadline for the two project openings in 2018. products for them. operating in the fields of importation and In addition, the group’s endeavours with regard Ali Bin Ali Holding is a regular destination for distribution of consumer commodities, fashion, to shopping complexes are also on the rise with the most renowned international brands. This is luxury, hospitality, travel and tourism, freight and the opening of the largest Monoprix hypermarket why it always has new franchises and suppliers, shipping, events organisation, medical services, in the world, the Doha Festival City shopping mall; and 2017 was no different. As usual, the group information technology and communications, the group has also engaged itself in the Manateq built good relations with several brands locally contracting and real estate management, project where they are implementing the largest and regionally in many fields including watches, supermarkets and shopping malls, sports, and warehousing and distribution complex in Qatar. jewellery, fashion, electronics, smart phones and lifestyle. Ali Bin Ali Holding has, since its inception at the food materials. The group played, over the past years, a hands of the late Ali Bin Ali, acquired an ability pioneering role in Qatar’s development vision to develop its performance by doing its best to DEFYING THE BLOCKADE through several unique projects in its portfolio. satisfy the needs of its clients on one hand and Ali Bin Ali Holding is one of the pioneering business During 2017 the group was engaged in various contributing towards improving the condition groups in Qatar. Out of a sense of national duty, it trade activities and established new trade of the Qatari market on the other. To achieve imported large quantities of all necessary products relations with several international brands in the this goal it developed its technologies and used to meet the Qatari market requirements for a long field of watches and jewellery and food materials. advanced techniques and qualified human time to avert shortages in basic commodities These projects played a major role in averting resources to manage the business of the group – resulting from the blockade. The group also took shortages in the local market, especially in food all with a view to maintain the high quality of its timely actions to spare the residents any shortage products, after the imposition of the blockade on services. of necessary goods and provided suitable

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alternatives. It has rented several additional them to the local market while maintaining product blockading countries, address the issue of express warehouses to store imported commodities quality. mail and find alternate means to overcome the especially for the purpose of satisfying the needs The group cooperated with new shipping obstacles created by the blockade. of the local market and signed several contracts and air transport companies as substitutes for with new trading agencies to import their goods. the companies of the blockading countries, FUTURE PLANS which has proved its competence in facing the In addition to expanding in many fields, the group OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES difficulties through the collaboration between all placed local manufacturing on its list of post- Indeed, work in several fields in circumstances like government agencies, the private sector and Qatari blockade priorities, especially in the field of light those the country is passing through in light of the businessmen. industries that can satisfy the requirements of the blockade must face some challenges. Thank God It is also a challenge to seek alternatives to local market, as part of the country’s self-sufficiency all these obstacles were surmounted due to the imports from the blockading countries. The answer plan which is formulating gradually in various fields cooperation between all government agencies was to import directly from exporting countries to include establishing the relevant farms and concerned with clearing the goods and introducing instead of from their regional offices in the industries, in addition to tourist projects

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QFC: BUSINESS AS USUAL THE ECONOMIC BLOCKADE HAS HAD LITTLE IMPACT ON QATAR'S FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES. IN FACT MORE AND MORE COMPANIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD HAVE EVINCED INTEREST IN SETTING UP THEIR OFFICES IN THE COUNTRY.

he Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) returned home, specifically Qatari companies,” and allow it to become another parallel hub to the Authority, the nodal agency for he said. current financial centres in the region. registration of international A majority of these companies, mostly special “With unprecedented challenges come companies, recorded an increase purpose vehicles (SPVs) and holding companies, unprecedented opportunities. I reiterate that T in the number of new firms after the have experienced difficulties reaching the Qatari Qatar and QFC remain open for business,” he embargo was imposed on Qatar in June last year. market since the siege. “The economic blockade said, adding that the current situation has offered Even before the crisis surfaced, QFC’s had become a barrier for entry with all the incentives for their long-term strategy of pursuing roadshows in Asia and Europe to attract global economic sanctions happening in the region, so economic diversification. companies notched many successes with the a lot of these companies have actually set up their Al Jaida added that though the geopolitical heavyweights of different sectors from Germany, presence here in Qatar,” he said. uncertainties in the region have been bad for the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, and mainland With QFC planning to relocate to the new business, Qatar has previously weathered worse China keen to join hands with their counterparts financial city, dubbed as Qatar’s own version of economic conditions than those now imposed by in Qatar. New York’s Wall Street financial district, in less its neighbours. QFC CEO Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida said that than a year, plans have been drawn to rope in at However, business has been as usual for the 90 new firms, mostly regional and multinational least 1,000 companies and create 10,000 jobs by country but for some in the greater region it could corporations, were now with the company. This 2022, when Qatar will be hosting the FIFA World be less comfortable. “I think investors who were was on top of the 41% year-on-year increase in Cup. Besides, it is being planned to triple the set up in nearby countries to do business in this new companies that had registered under the growth in the assets of companies licensed by part of the world have obviously suffered a lot of Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority QFC, and to reach 5% of the market value of the consequences,” he said in an interview with CNBC. during the first six months of 2017. Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE). Al Jaida further said that while there was an The QFC-registered firms enjoy competitive The new financial centre at Msheireb Downtown initial sense of shock when the crisis first unfolded benefits such as operating within a legal Doha will cover an area of up to 300,000 square early in June, Qatar has dealt with worse economic environment based on English common law, metres and will be open to all businesses, local conditions, like in 2008, before and survived. the right to trade in any currency, 100% foreign and international, and will not be restricted The one silver lining for Qatar amidst the crisis ownership and repatriation of profits, 10% exclusively to QFC-licensed firms. is that there are a lot of businesses in the region corporate tax on locally sourced profits and an which have committed to this part of the world extensive double tax treaty agreement network NEW FINANCIAL HUB and they were being told not to do business with with more than 60 countries. Al Jaida said that QFC was keen on forming new Qatar. And that, in the very short term, has forced “Many of them which were set up in the region, alliances with countries in the region to enable the people to basically relocate and set up shop in specifically in the Dubai Financial Centre, have centre to play a prominent role in the Middle East Qatar to be able to service the country’s economy.

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“The message I would like to send is that post Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution facilitate access to these countries, which are five the crisis, Qatar will be stronger, more open and Centre, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of regional countries to be announced soon and will basically be a destination of choice for the rest the QFC platform for local companies wishing to to be allied with them at the government level of the globe,” he added. expand globally and foreign companies wishing in order to facilitate the access of international to expand in the country and the region in general. companies to the Qatari market. GOVERNMENT SUPPORT Al Jaida said that their new strategy will be Al Jaida also said that the government was ready announced soon, which is aimed at making it a ROADSHOWS A SUCCESS to step in to release funds if foreign companies regional and international competition platform Embarking on a special drive to attract foreign withdrew their deposits from the local banks due outside the Gulf region, with expansions in direct investments, QFC, a hybrid onshore to the fallout of the sanctions imposed by the Southeast Asia and some selected countries in the financial centre, had conducted roadshows in Saudi-led group. The entities from this bloc have region providing new business markets for Qatari many countries in Asia and Europe before the around QR65.52 billion ($18 billion) of deposits companies wishing to expand into new and rich start of the economic blockade which were in Qatari banks. These deposits matured around geographic markets. well received by the local companies in those September last year. “The new strategy is an initiative to create some countries, who are said to have showed interest Even other banks in QFC are still providing business activities and investment opportunities in getting listed on the local bourse. These events short-term US dollar deposits to Qatar’s banking in a number of countries to compete with Dubai have helped raise QFC’s profile to international sector. There was a financial crisis in 2008 and the Financial Centre. The addition of the new offices audiences. government bought out the default portfolios of will be announced and their access will be “There is credible evidence that QFC is an ideal loans and real estate at that time. If the scenario facilitated through QFC,” he said. platform, not only for international companies repeats, the government was prepared to act Through its new strategy, the Centre aims at who want to expand their business activities to accordingly. attracting regional and international offices that Qatar, the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, However, QFC has no intention to take specialise in several countries in the region to but also for local businesses looking to expand action against QFC-licensed foreign companies serve more than one market within the country. regionally and internationally,” said Al Jaida. belonging to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in the Al Jaida noted that the strategy will also At present, there is only one QFC-authorised region as a retaliatory measure to the sanctions firm, Qatar First Bank, which is listed on the imposed by their respective governments. At domestic bourse. QFC, in its five-year roadmap, is present, there are five such companies from these aiming at accounting for at least 5% of the market countries. capitalisation of the local bourse. Al Jaida said the blockade has restricted some Al Jaida said the roadshows in both Singapore of their companies from doing business in Qatar, and Hong Kong provided the ideal opportunity which was affecting about QR7.28 billion ($2 for Asian investors and businesses to discuss billion) of these companies’ contracts in areas investment opportunities in Qatar and get such as construction, professional services and acquainted with the support they provide our export of materials. firms to expand globally. In Germany, the roadshow provided attendees A GAME CHANGER with an opportunity to network with some of The government’s plans to soon introduce new the MENA region’s most influential decision- legislation called the Qatar Financial Centre Law makers, including Ghorfa, AHK, Manateq and is expected to be a game changer in the regional Rödl & Partner. Attending companies also had the “WITH UNPRECEDENTED financial markets, including Dubai. CHALLENGES COME UNPRECEDENTED opportunity to receive one-on-one consultation At present, as many as 410 companies OPPORTUNITIES. I REITERATE THAT sessions with QFC’s leading experts. QATAR AND QFC REMAIN OPEN FOR registered with QFC have invested around QR75 BUSINESS.” In London as well as Manchester in the UK, the billion and this is expected to be QR200 billion in QFC delegation held panel discussions, face-to- the next five years. YOUSUF MOHAMED AL JAIDA face consultations and networking events with CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER The new law will be a quantum leap in facilitating QATAR FINANCIAL CENTRE AUTHORITY (QFCA) professionals from local corporations and private the entry of QFC companies to the local market firms. and supports Qatar’s efforts to diversify sources Qatar is the UK’s third largest export market in of income and strengthen the capabilities of the the MENA region.

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UNINTERRUPTED GROWTH FOR REAL ESTATE SECTOR THE COUNTRY’S REAL ESTATE SECTOR NOT ONLY RECEIVED A SHOT IN THE ARM DUE TO THE RISING OIL PRICES BUT ALSO REMAINED UNSCATHED IN THE AFTERMATH OF ECONOMIC AND TRADE SANCTIONS IMPOSED BY FOUR NATIONS, LED BY SAUDI ARABIA, IN JUNE 2017.

esides rising oil prices, the for us, it’s for the region, it’s for the Arabs, it’s for increased pace in the execution everybody in this region,” he told CNBC in an of FIFA World Cup-related projects interview. is expected to further provide the The minister’s remarks were supported by B much-needed fillip to the sector’s Qatar Central Bank (QCB), which said that the growth in the next couple of years. country’s commercial banks registered a healthy The real estate sector has been playing an double-digit growth year-on-year in domestic important role in contributing to a diversified credit off-take last August, largely due to the loans economy in the face of the current oil price disbursed to the real estate sector. situation. In fact, it is the reason why Qatar’s The credit to the real estate sector witnessed National Vision 2030 marks the transformation more than 10% growth (QR187.01 billion), which of Qatar from an emerging economy to one that accounted for 23% of total credit in August 2017. has been maturing and diversifying in the last five In all, the total domestic credit by commercial years. banks grew by more than 14% to QR805.17 billion According to Minister of Finance HE Ali Sharif “MOST OF OUR PROJECTS ARE ON in August 2017, QCB’s latest data showed. Al Emadi, 65% of the work related to the FIFA TRACK AND WE ARE NOT BACKING OFF. According to SAK Holding Group's report, WE ARE REALLY GOING TO MAKE THIS World Cup was already completed, and that the A SUCCESS, NOT JUST FOR QATAR. WE Qatar has increased liquidity in the building remaining 35% would be completed ahead of HAVE BEEN SAYING RIGHT FROM DAY and construction sector and, contrary to the ONE THAT THIS WORLD CUP IS NOT time. ONLY FOR US, IT’S FOR THE REGION, IT’S expectations of the siege countries, increased “Most of our projects are on track and we are FOR THE ARABS, IT’S FOR EVERYBODY IN major public sector investments. not backing off. We are really going to make this THIS REGION.” The government has allotted more than QR91 a success, not just for Qatar. We have been saying HE ALI SHARIF AL EMADI billion ($25 billion) to finance several projects and right from day one that this World Cup is not only MINISTER OF FINANCE has been pumping funds to prevent the major STATE OF QATAR

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infrastructure projects such as Doha Metro as well as residential and industrial projects from getting bogged down due to the RETAIL MALLS & SHOPPING CENTRES squeeze. ('000 sq m GLA) “The government’s interest in the real estate sector stems from its numerous contributions to the growth of various sectors and 421 the development of the Qatari economy in general. “It has also contributed significantly to the growth of the financial sector and to the reduction of inflation. It has a vital role in the expansion plans of Qatar National Vision 2030 and 157 preparations for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup,” said the report .

BUSINESS AS USUAL 890 Business was as usual with official figures indicating that the 591 total value of properties sold was around QR3.6 billion in June, surpassing the figures of January 2017 which were second in 22 terms of properties sold in 2017. The total value of properties sold 145 in January was QR3.4 billion and between February and May the 24 value of properties sold ranged between QR1.6 billion and QR3 billion. Neighbourhood Community 3k-10k sq m 10k-30k sq m Expected Supply Some 215 transactions took place in July 2017, whose combined (till 2019) Regional Super Regional Q3 2017 Stock value was put at around QR1.8 billion, registering an impressive 30k-90k sq m >90k sq m growth of 50% compared with QR1.2 billion in the corresponding SOURCE: ValuStrat month in the previous year. Likewise, the combined value of the deals during the first week of August (July 30 to August 3) was QR617 million, in the second week (August 6 to 10) it reached QR203 million, and in the third QATAR RESIDENTIAL SUPPLY 2015 - 2018 week (August 13 to 17) it amounted to QR199 million, according ('000 UNITS) to the weekly report published by the Department of Real Estate Registration at the Ministry of Justice. The sector witnessed a remarkable recovery with the combined 6.7 value of monthly real estate transactions increasing to QR5 billion 8.8 in October, up by 78.6%, compared with QR2.8 billion recorded in 275 280 289 the corresponding month in 2016. 280 As many as 433 deals were executed, including 221 for ready- to-move-in properties, accounting for 51% of the total number of transactions, and 212 transactions were for the sale of land plots, 2015 2016 2017E 2018E which accounted for 49% of the total number of transactions, data from the Department of Real Estate Registration at the Ministry of Existing Expected Supply* Justice said. * May be subject to significant downward adjustment The recovery in the real estate market was attributed to the depending on construction delays return of exceptional deals (valued at more than QR100 million), especially for sales and purchases in the prefabricated buildings sector, in addition to the noticeable increase in the number of SOURCE: Ministry of Development Planning & Statistics, MEED Projects, land plot transactions. ValuStrat

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ADDING MORE UNITS out and is expected to have a soft opening in the history, for lease and it is spread over an area ValuStrat, the Middle East’s leading consulting first quarter of 2018. The United Development of one million sq m and contains over 9,000 group providing advisory, valuations, research, Company has also launched 04 Mall in La Plage residential units. due diligence and divestment services, in its South in The Pearl and is expected to add 40,000 The first phase of the project includes report titled '3rd Quarter Review of Qatar Real sq m of GLA once completed by the end of 2018. 1,875 fully furnished housing units as well as Estate Market', said 1,750 residential units “Based on GLA and population figures, Qatar's 183 commercial outlets that will serve as the (apartments and villas) were added to make the shopping centre GLA stands at 674 sq m per 1,000 backbone of the city’s dwellers and residents of total supply 283,250 at the end of the quarter. capita compared to the GCC average of 550 sq m the surrounding areas. Ezdan Oasis is also home Qatar’s office supply totaled 3.82 million sq per 1,000 capita,” the ValuStrat report added. to hundreds of commercial and services units m gross leasable area (GLA), with the addition and facilities. of seven buildings in Lusail, Najma, Umm ENTHUSIASM APLENTY In a report titled 'Qatar Real Estate Market Ghuwailina, Al Wakrah and Al Thumama. The enthusiasm has been such that new projects Outlook to 2021 - Economic Diversification and Moreover, 44,000 sq m GLA was further added were announced by companies, squashing FIFA World Cup 2022 to Support Infrastructure by the completion of office space in North Gate reports that the adverse economic conditions Development', Ken Research suggested a growth Mall and 28,000 sq m GLA of office space has also would impact the real estate sector across at a CAGR of 20.1% in revenue in Qatar’s real become available for leasing in Mirqab Mall. the GCC, especially Qatar, at least for one year estate market till 2021. In retail space, the total GLA was 1.65 million following the Gulf crisis. The real estate market is likely to have strong sq m with the completion of North Gate Mall Apart from the transactions, major companies linkages with the economic growth and as and Doha Souq. North Gate Mall, a mixed-use announced some massive projects during the Qatar’s economy is poised to grow further, the development, with a GLA of 100,000 sq m retail year. Ezdan Holding Group opened the first real estate sector is anticipated to witness a space, has started handing over spaces for fit- phase of Ezdan Oasis project, the largest in its bright outlook in the coming years, it added

50 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN NASSER BIN KHALIFA AL THANI PRIME MINISTER AND INTERIOR MINISTER STATE OF QATAR PROGRESS 2017-2018 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY

MOVING TOWARDS A SMART FUTURE TWO DECADES AFTER OPENING UP THE COUNTRY’S TELECOM SECTOR, QATAR IS TODAY MOVING AT A RAPID PACE, ALONG WITH THE BIG NAMES, AS FAR AS THE INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) INDUSTRY IS CONCERNED.

he decision by policymakers developments in Qatar’s ICT sector, which was 2017 in March. has borne fruit and the industry inaugurated by the Prime Minister and Interior Qitcom is Qatar’s biggest digital event and has been described as the most Minister, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin supports the progress of the country towards dynamic non-hydrocarbon Khalifa Al Thani, during the fourth edition of building a national economy in general and T sector in Qatar if the ICT device the Qatar Information and Communications a digital economy in particular as part of the penetration and related activities in the last Technology Conference and Exhibition (Qitcom) implementation of various major infrastructure few years are taken into consideration. The ICT projects of global standards. department was merged with the Ministry of “Tasmu along with other digital initiatives is Transport in 2016. expected to generate QR40 billion over the next In fact, among the various activities driving five years. Qatar will spend QR6 billion across Qatar’s digital initiatives, four digital economy the public and private sectors over the next five programmes are said to be important: Digital years to develop the necessary technological Incubation Center (DIC), Smart Qatar (Tasmu), infrastructure as part of Tasmu, which is the E-Commerce Programme and the Digital expected to speed up the growth of the job Transformation of SMEs. These programmes market in the ICT sector by 10%,” he said. represent the ministry’s digital transformation Tasmu includes 100 projects for local and approach and knowledge-based economy foreign companies, which will be supported enhancement. financially by Qatar Development Bank. These ICT officials said that these programmes are projects touch all aspects of the country’s aimed at boosting the digital economy and development and the daily lives of its citizens, Smart Qatar agenda of Tasmu. DIC participation including healthcare, sports, transport, energy reflects the commitment to supporting young “UNDER THE WISE LEADERSHIP OF THE consumption and food security. entrepreneurs to boost the national economy EMIR HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL “The Qatar Digital Oasis will be created as the THANI, THE GOVERNMENT HAS MADE and strengthen Qatar’s position among world GREAT STRIDES IN ENHANCING THE main platform for enhancing the horizons of digital economies. “Tasmu is the Smart Qatar BASIC FOUNDATIONS TO DEVELOP co-operation among multinational companies, THE ICT SECTOR BY PROVIDING A programme designed specifically to accelerate SUITABLE LEGAL AND ORGANISATIONAL emerging companies, small- and medium-sized the achievement of all pillars of the Qatar FRAMEWORK.” enterprises and research institutes,” he said. National Vision 2030,” they added. “Under the wise leadership of the Emir HE SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN NASSER BIN KHALIFA AL THANI HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the SMART QATAR PRIME MINISTER AND INTERIOR MINISTER government has made great strides in enhancing Smart Qatar has been one of the major STATE OF QATAR the basic foundations to develop the ICT sector

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by providing a suitable legal and organisational improve security, and with Huawei in the cyber national ICT skills, ranking fifth on both globally. framework,” said the prime minister. security area. In his comments at the event, Minister of As per the agreement with Huawei, both sides CLOUD COMPUTING MARKET Transport and Communications HE Jassim Saif will work in five areas of collaboration: cyber Qatar’s cloud computing market is expected Ahmed Al Sulaiti, said: “Qatar is strongly engaged intelligence sharing, joint innovation efforts, to have the highest compound annual growth in developing a vital ICT sector to build the smart training courses development, cybersecurity rate (CAGR) of 57% in the entire Middle East, future we want and the ministry has identified awareness and ICT products cybersecurity from 2016 through to 2021. This is attributed more than 100 smart technological solutions testing lab. to government investment, economic within the framework of Tasmu.” Within days after Qitcom 2017 concluded, the growth and existing organisations’ urge to Tasmu drew the attention of Sheikh Tamim ministry signed an agreement with Accenture to scale up operations across the region and when he visited Qitcom 2017, whose theme was develop an innovation management capability digitalise services. The country’s ICT policies “Qatar towards a Smart Future.” The Emir visited for sourcing and applying digital technologies and initiatives, as well as cost savings on Qatar Smart City that presented Tasmu, which and social innovations, which are part of Tasmu. infrastructure, are other factors driving cloud focuses on the development and technological Qatar has been striving to promote ICT adoption. transformation of the major sectors in the and launched programmes like training web In fact, software giant SAP, which is one of country such as transportation, logistics, developers, designers, etc., to become one of the the world’s largest enterprise software vendors environment, health and sport. He examined the leading nations in the region in the ICT sector. announced at Qitcom 2017 that it will launch a latest smart solutions of these sectors and learnt According to the World Economic Forum’s private cloud data centre in Qatar to accelerate about the projects of Qatar’s government. Global Information Technology Report 2016, the country’s QR10.92 billion ($3 billion) digital He also launched the Sadeem project as a Qatar was ranked 27th in the Networked transformation programmes. Once functional, platform to host government services, and had Readiness Index. The country excelled in several customers in and around Qatar will gain a first-hand look at several innovations and new areas, including government use of ICT and access to SAP Hana, a relational database software that were put on display for the first management system and one of the provider’s time at the exhibition. flagship products. In addition, the Emir visited the pavilions of SAP’s Managing Director of the Gulf, North several participant companies and entities and Africa, Pakistan and Levant Gergi Abboud listened to a briefing on the major programmes termed real-time information management and initiatives that the exhibition backs in the as the foundation for Qatar’s organisations field of ICT. to drive Qatar National Vision 2030 digital transformation and economic competitiveness MANY PACTS SIGNED goals. The Ministry of Transport and Communications “Using cutting-edge cloud solutions, Qatar’s (MTC) signed memoranda of understanding organisations can cut costs and drive efficiency, (MoUs) with several local and international become more responsive to citizens' and players, such as Qatar Stock Exchange, customers' needs, and deliver innovative new International Smart City Research Centre from business models,” he said. Beijing, Huawei, E-Government Academy of SAP’s Qatar data centre announcement “USING CUTTING-EDGE CLOUD Estonia, and UI Labs on behalf of City Digital SOLUTIONS, QATAR’S ORGANISATIONS comes days after the company announced it in Chicago in the US. These agreements are CAN CUT COSTS AND DRIVE EFFICIENCY, has expanded its cloud platform as a service BECOME MORE RESPONSIVE TO expected to place Qatar among the world’s CITIZENS' AND CUSTOMERS' NEEDS, AND (PaaS) to Japan and China with the opening of leading countries in the area of smart city DELIVER INNOVATIVE NEW BUSINESS data centres in Shanghai and Tokyo. MODELS.” technology and ICT. Overall, the company operates 23 data Two more MoUs were signed by the ministry GERGI ABBOUD centres around the globe for its solutions. The with MITRE, a not-for-profit organisation in the MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE GULF, NORTH hubs, some still under construction, sit mostly AFRICA, PAKISTAN AND LEVANT US that works with federal governments around SAP in the US. Brazil, Canada, Japan, Australia and the world to solve complex problems and France are just some of the other locations

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"WE HAVE FORMED STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS WITH CLOUD AND CONTENT PROVIDERS AND PARTNERS. WE HAVE ENTERED DATA CENTRES, INTERNET EXCHANGES AROUND THE WORLD, SMARTHUBS AND BROUGHT CONTENT CLOSER TO 150 MILLION END-USERS."

ABDULLA AL RWAILI EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF GBI

PIONEERING INNOVATION GULF BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL (GBI) HAS BEEN WORKING TOWARDS EMPOWERING THE DIGITALIZATION OF ECONOMIES, SOCIETIES AND PEOPLE.

n interview with Abdulla Al Rwaili, WHAT HAVE BEEN GBI’S KEY EVOLUTIONARY the region into a world connectivity centre. Executive Vice Chairman and MILESTONES AND HOW DO THEY REFLECT ON Today, from our hub in Qatar, GBI offers low Managing Director of GBI - a THE CONNECTIVITY LANDSCAPE IN THE GCC? latency corridors through our north route, making visionary who has successfully We have embraced the OTT movement and the it the Middle East’s most unique and evolved A driven GBI’s transformation into push for innovation from the very beginning network with entities in Qatar and the Middle East a global cloud and connectivity provider that of GBI. Our skillset, accelerated learning curve and expanding into Europe. contributed to the positioning of Qatar as a and forward thinking has directed our business, leading technology hub in the region. product and diversified solution offering to deliver WHAT MAKES GBI STAND OUT IN THE Gulf Bridge International (GBI) is owned by a completely new experience for our partners, INDUSTRY IN THE REGION? several multiple shareholders. It is a global cloud customers and end-users. We have chosen to revolutionize. A great and connectivity company that allows businesses, Since the launch of GBI 10 years ago, and the philosopher once said that “the only thing that is societies and people to transform their solutions start of its operations four years later, we have constant is change”. GBI has recently concluded digitally and be part of one of the most advanced become a carrier’s carrier. The enterprise of global its transformation from a dumb pipes network, networks in the world. managed services provider dedicated to turning through to a fully-managed services network and

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into a cloud, connectivity and content enabler. the convenience of their offices or homes. Our routes diversity will add We provide our customers with wholesale and managed services. In scalability, accessibility and greater diversity of options to all segments. addition, we have started tapping into the Enterprise business segment. We have merged with data centres and internet exchanges globally and HOW WOULD YOU ASSESS THE COMPANY’S STRATEGIC PROJECTS, have revamped our portfolio of services. The latter caters to SOHO, SMEs, INVESTMENTS, GROWTH AND NETWORK TRANSFORMATION IN THE SMBs, and large enterprises. What is more essential is that the future looks LAST TWO YEARS? even more optimistic since our network transformation will allow us to It has been five years since the launch of GBI’s network; we currently provide provide intelligent services to the enterprise and consumer customers at 25% of the IP Internet in the Gulf. Equally important, 2017 was a very eventful time for us. GBI concluded its transformation into a full-fledged global service provider that supports Ethernet, MPLS and IP Networks. We have made more strategic partnerships with cloud and content providers, and as I mentioned we have entered data centres and Internet Exchanges WHO WE ARE: around the world. We have brought content closer to 150 million end-users. GBI is a global cloud, connectivity and content enabler that owns and GBI is now a direct partner for Microsoft, Amazon and Softlayer IBM in operates a smart, fully managed service network. Our multilayer terrestrial the Middle East. These partnerships have allowed us to become a global and subsea cable meshed network bridges the East to the West through cloud services provider in the Middle East. Since we have become a direct the Middle East, empowers businesses, connects societies and connect partner to cloud providers, when talking about broadband and contributes to the region’s transformation towards knowledge-based Internet, borders and geographical challenges seize to exist. economies. Our agility, business innovation and diverse portfolio of services make us a partner of choice for carriers, ISPs, governments, and IN OCTOBER LAST YEAR, GBI PARTNERED WITH SOCIAL MEDIA NET- the smart living ecosystem. We are a carrier’s carrier and an enterprise WORKS GLOBALLY TO “BRING BETTER AND FASTER CONNECTIVITY”. global managed services provider dedicated to turning the region into a WHAT WAS THE IMPACT OF THIS INITIATIVE IN QATAR AND THE GCC global connectivity hub. REGION? Content is king and speed of getting information is crucial. If we fail to address the exponential growth for content globally the industry’s GBI IN SCOPE: ecosystem risks of being obsolete. GBI has recognized the need to bring GBI owns and operates the Middle East’s most unique and evolved content closer to the region for all customer segments, from Soho to SMBs, network with entities in Qatar, the UAE and expansions westwards and enterprises. Pan-region there is a growing role for regional content into Europe hosting and distribution services, particularly based in Qatar. Having GBI is one of the top five IP providers in the Gulf recognized this demand we are currently hosting content in a key content GBI has captured 25% of the connectivity market in the region hub in Doha. GBI is Microsoft Azure’s ExpressRoute partner in the region Today, we are one of the networks providers in Qatar and worldwide. GBI’s North Route is a unique corridor with low latency provided to Europe with Qatar as the main hub WHAT ARE GBI’S PLANS FOR GROWTH, EXPANSION AND FURTHER GBI supports content providers networks in the Middle East TRANSFORMATION? WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM GBI is a contributor to economic growth PLANS? GBI empowers the ICT landscape We believe in growth within the GCC and beyond. Our trajectory will continue to be based on innovative approaches and solutions that we introduce to the whole value chain and to the shared economy

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CRA: FOSTERING TRANSPARENCY, COMPETITION AND CONNECTIVITY IN QATAR AS QATAR TRANSITIONS TO A SMART, CONNECTED, DIGITAL ECONOMY, THE COMMUNICATIONS REGULATORY AUTHORITY (CRA) CONTINUES TO CONTRIBUTE TO THAT PROGRESS.

n 2017 CRA continued to take steps A new level of maturity is emerging in Qatar’s contact with other regulators around the world to towards achieving this wider goal. telecommunications market as well as the exchange ideas and experiences that will help the Qatar has been recognised for its dynamic development of the digital media and industry to evolve. many achievements in developing a ICT sectors. I knowledge-based society and is now MANAGEMENT AND ALLOCATION OF well positioned to leverage the opportunities CONVERGED REGULATION NATIONAL SCARE RESOURCES offered by information and communications On a global level the ICT sector is evolving at CRA ensures the efficient management and technology (ICT). In-depth analysis of the incredible speed, so in order to keep pace with allocation of scarce resources such as radio global ICT sector landscape indicates that the this change from a regulatory standpoint CRA spectrum, numbering and domain names. In 2017 development of Qatar’s telecommunications is adopting a more flexible regime of laws and and the beginning of 2018 CRA made a number of infrastructure is on a par with that of comparable regulations that are able to accommodate future critical strides in the management and allocation high-income countries and that Qatar enjoys technological changes and the market dynamics of the spectrum such as supporting spectrum a lower cost of telecoms services and has the created by them. requirements of three major events during 2017 highest average internet connection speeds A key element to convergence in regulation including the National Day celebrations, the final among the GCC and Arab markets. is being directly engaged with the full range of round of the Superbike World Championship and Overall, 2017 saw the telecom sector in stakeholders and affected parties across the ICT the FIA World Touring Car Championship. robust health and it continued to make a sector in consultations and workshops regarding CRA is one of the regulatory bodies in the region valuable contribution to the national economy. changes in the regulations also being in constant that took the lead and held consultations with

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service providers in Qatar in early increase in requests for approvals 2017, to identify their future demand for the construction of new mobile regarding the required frequency sites which were effectively bands for the deployment of 5G processed by CRA. This highlights technology in the country. the central role played by the CRA At the beginning of 2018, in ensuring the rapid growth of CRA has completed the needed the communications sector in the preparations for the fifth generation state of Qatar. In 2017, CRA issued (5G) frequency bands for mobile 127 approvals for requests of telecommunications services, and construction of new mobile sites has prepared preliminary frequency and compared to 2016, CRA saw a plans that can accommodate the 138% increase in approval requests demand of Qatar's telecom service received prior to being sent to the providers of the main candidate relevant government authorities for frequency bands for the use of 5G H.E. MOHAMMED ALI AL MANNAI final approval. technology. PRESIDENT OF CRA CRA has identified the frequency IMPROVING THE EXPERIENCE OF bands 700 MHz, 3.5 GHz and 26 TELECOM CONSUMERS GHz, as each service provider will be assigned a mobile numbers and 10,000 fixed-line numbers CRA aims at balancing the rights of consumers frequency bandwidth in the mentioned frequency to service providers. As of December 31, 2017, a with the needs of service providers, using its bands, in accordance with the approved total of 8.1 million mobile and 1.46 million fixed- full range of regulatory powers to ensure the preliminary plans. This will allow the service line numbers have been allocated. Throughout development of a sustainable competitive providers to start this year with the preliminary the year, 29,466 mobile numbers were ported and open sector and ensures that individuals, testing on pre-standard network, towards the and 5,914 mobile numbers were returned under businesses and government have access to a deploy of standard commercial networks late mobile number portability service. In addition broad range of innovative and reasonably priced 2018 and early 2019. to mobile and fixed-line numbers allocation, communications services. CRA has successfully continued to encourage CRA assigned 15 numbering resources for other CRA resolved 95% of complaints received in the uptake of “.qa” domain names which services that include toll free, public service and 2017 compared to 94% in 2016. Moreover, to allow local businesses to secure a reliable and licensed operator service. Furthermore, with address the issues raised by consumers, such as obtainable name on the Internet and ensure that the emergence of new services like Machine-to- billing, premium SMS services, disconnections they reflect their Qatari identity when they provide Machine (M2M) communication and Internet of and delays in activation, CRA has engaged with the their services to their local and international Things (IoT) and the need to keep the numbering service providers to discuss solutions. Alongside customers. During 2017 CRA registered 3,272 new plan in pace with the global technological these efforts CRA marked the World Consumer domains (up by nearly 10% from 2,981 in 2016) developments. CRA is working to update the Rights Day by hosting a public outreach event to which indicates that Qatari domain extensions are national numbering distribution table and policy help telecom consumers better understand their serving the Qatari market and community well, which will be issued in 2018. rights and responsibilities and how CRA can help bringing the total number of registered Qatari As per its mandate CRA ensures the efficient them in issues related to telecommunications domains to 20,253. management and usage of new and existing services. During 2017 CRA allocated 100,000 new mobile sites’ coverage. Qatar is seeing a sharp CRA continues to focus on improving the

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experience of telecom consumers in Qatar and Portal was awarded an Arab Government frameworks in Qatar. the quality of service provided to them. As part of Achievement Award by the Pan Arab Excellence CRA also launched a public consultation with this CRA hosted numerous consumer awareness Awards Academy. revisions to the Class Licence for Short Range campaigns and events providing the CRA team Devices (SRDs). The modifications will ensure with the opportunity to connect with telecom REGULATION AND CONSULTATION that CRA enables stakeholders to introduce consumers and provide useful tips to help them In line with CRA’s open and transparent new technologies and devices in the market better understand their rights and responsibilities regulatory processes, CRA initiated a number of and be better prepared for future demands. and to educate consumers on other topics related public consultations and hosted workshops on The proposed revisions to the Class Licence are to roaming, spam SMS messages and scam calls. amendments to regulation to understand and designed to accommodate advances in radio- To protect consumers from buying and take into account, the needs of all stakeholders in communications equipment and applications, using illegal telecom products, in 2017 CRA’s an organized and transparent manner. and include new frequency ranges for SRDs. The technical inspectors conducted two routine In 2017 CRA reviewed the Spam Regulation proposed changes relate especially to ‘Annexure inspections on 546 shops that are selling radio published in December 2016 and made (2)’ and propose the addition of new frequency and telecommunications equipment (up by 180% amendments that align it more closely with bands for SRDs such as a wide range of M2M and from 195 shops in 2016) and issued 257 violation the Data Privacy Law published by the Ministry IoT Applications. notices for shops that were selling telecoms of Transport and Communications (MOTC) In 2017 CRA also launched a public consultation devices and equipment without having the in December 2016. The revised regulation is with revisions to the Class Licence for the provision required licences. designed to reduce the number of complaints of public telecommunication services on board CRA also continued to improve the ease about spam, direct marketing and cybercrime aircraft in order to allow gate-to-gate connectivity. with which spectrum users can apply for the lodged with service providers and CRA and to appropriate licences with its award-winning enhance the overall experience of consumers in CONCLUSION e-Spectrum Services Portal, launched by CRA in Qatar. Overall, CRA has made great progress toward January 2017. The e-Spectrum Services Portal The amended regulation sets out the particular supporting Qatar’s transition to a connected is the public interface of the CRA’s Automated obligations on service providers, senders and/ digital economy and plans to build on the strong Frequency Management System (AFMS), and or users of electronic communications for the momentum generated in the last few years by allows spectrum users to submit applications purposes of direct marketing in relation to continuing to open doors to investment, new online for issuing, modifying or canceling their consumer privacy, personal data and cybercrime, innovations and new business models in the spectrum licences. The e-Spectrum Services in accordance with the relevant regulatory market

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OOREDOO: CONNECTING THE WORLD FROM A ONE-NATION OPERATOR WITH LESS THAN TWO MILLION CUSTOMERS IN 2005, OOREDOO HAS COME A LONG WAY IN THE PAST DECADE AND TODAY IT HAS A CUSTOMER BASE OF MORE THAN 150 MILLION IN NEARLY A DOZEN COUNTRIES IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA, BESIDES ASIA.

oredoo has been offering Indonesia, Oman, Kuwait, Iraq and Maldives. impact, Group EBITDA would have increased by leading data experience through Excluding the foreign exchange translation 4% year-on-year. a broad range of content, its impact, revenues would have increased by 2% The group net profit to Ooredoo shareholders services delivered via advanced, compared to the reported 1%. decreased by 15% to QR1.6 billion and excluding O data-centric mobile and fixed The Group EBITDA is stable at QR10.5 billion the foreign exchange impact, net profit networks, and its brand equity value is said to be with an increase in the EBITDA margin now at attributable to Ooredoo shareholders would more than QR10.92 billion ($3 billion). 43%, indicating an improvement in operational have decreased by 8%. Additional government While acquiring vast global experience, the performance from September 2016 (42%). levies in Oman, challenging market conditions in company has delivered a major network upgrade Excluding the foreign exchange translation Qatar and unfavourable foreign exchange rates in Iraq through its Asiacell operations, successfully in Tunisia impacted the group’s net profit, the acquired a stake in Indosat of Indonesia and report said. secured a licence to operate in Myanmar. Strong data growth from consumer and Ooredoo Chairman Sheikh Abdulla bin enterprise customers: data revenue increased Mohammed bin Saud Al Thani said that the to 45% of group revenue. Revenue from data company has developed significant experience contributed QR11.1 billion in the first nine months through each of its moves in the global telecom of 2017. market. “If we had stayed at home, serving two The customer base reached a milestone of 150 million people, would we have gained such million, representing an increase of 13%, driven in-depth expertise and forged such strong by strong growth in Indonesia, Iraq, Algeria, connections across global markets? Qatar’s Tunisia, Oman, Qatar and Maldives. In terms willingness to push outside its comfort zone has of data, Ooredoo continues to be a leader in its been a key ingredient in our success,” he said. markets, with 4G networks now available in eight He made these remarks while addressing the of Ooredoo’s 10 markets. students of Georgetown University in Qatar a few The company also completed the de-listing days ago and explained the measures taken by “THE GROWING NUMBER OF CUSTOMERS process of Ooredoo’s Global Depositary Receipt Qatar for its success in the past and in the coming IS A TESTAMENT TO THE COMPANY’S (GDR) from the London Stock Exchange, effective RELENTLESS FOCUS ON DELIVERING years. WORLD-CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE AND from August 31, 2017 to enable the international INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS.” investors to trade Ooredoo securities on the IMPRESSIVE FINANCIALS Qatar Stock Exchange with much ease. SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN MOHAMMED As a listed company on the Qatar Stock Exchange Ooredoo Maldives completed the listing of its BIN SAUD AL THANI and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Ooredoo’s CHAIRMAN shares on the Maldives Stock Exchange in August revenue in September 2017 was QR24.5 billion, OOREDOO last year. It sold around 10% of the company which was driven by strong contributions from shares which resulted in IPO proceeds of QR100

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million, making the Ooredoo Maldives IPO the results demonstrated an improved operational 2016. most successful listing in the country. performance, while Ooredoo Tunisia grew Data revenue increased to 40% of Ooredoo Another notable achievement was the the business in local currency terms. Ooredoo Group revenues, a new record for the company launching of Wataniya Palestine in Gaza on Myanmar reported its third consecutive quarter and an important sign that its strategy is delivering October 24. Gaza constitutes about 40% of the of positive EBITDA,” he added. real and sustainable returns for stakeholders. Palestinian market. Ooredoo Qatar continued to maintain clear He also pointed out that 22 million new Sheikh Abdulla expressed satisfaction over market leadership with the number of customers customers were added to reach a total of the company’s performance for the first three increasing by 3% year-on-year to reach 3.5 138 million customers by December 2016, quarters of 2017 and said it had registered million. The revenues decreased by 2% to QR5.9 representing a year-on-year growth of 19%. growth in revenues, EBITDA, and the number of billion, and EBITDA stood at QR3 billion (3%). Supported by positive revenue growth in local customers swelled to 150 million. “The revenues were impacted by lower currency terms, group revenue for 2016 increased He said: “The growing number of customers revenue from mobile voice services and mega by 1% to QR32 billion. Group EBITDA increased is a testament to the company’s relentless focus projects and a drop in roaming revenue during by 3% to QR13,379 million, with the EBITDA on delivering world-class infrastructure and the Eid holiday month. This was partially offset margin increasing to 41%. Net profit attributable innovative products.” by increased revenue from Ooredoo TV digital to Ooredoo shareholders for 2016 was QR2,193 He also said the company was “delighted and entertainment services. Ooredoo Qatar’s Fibre million. very excited” to launch services in Gaza, which rollout programme passed more than 500,000 According to Sheikh Abdulla, what all their was part of their efforts to become the leading homes and has now connected more than markets have had in common has been the rising integrated ICT provider in Palestine, which took 347,000 homes,” said the Ooredoo Group CEO. demand for data services, with data revenue a long time. growing ahead of the pace of their “We maintain our leadership wider economies and this trend was position and commitment to transforming the telecommunications connecting and developing the industry. citizens of emerging economies where He further said: “Customer demand we operate and are very proud to be for data continues to rise exponentially making good progress in this area,” and companies need to provide the the chairman added. networks that can meet this demand Ooredoo Group CEO Sheikh Saud as well as the processes that make it bin Nasser Al Thani said that their possible to successfully monetise it.” financial performance has been For this reason Ooredoo was stable in the recent past, with a group transforming its offering and looking revenue of QR24 billion and a group to become a data experience leader. net profit attributable to shareholders “We are providing a leading network of QR1.6 billion. “Our strategy to experience, great apps and access to optimise efficiencies across our impressive content,” he added. operations resulted in a 3% growth in Group EBITDA to QR10.5 billion and an improved The company also participated in several BAGS THREE AWARDS Group EBITDA margin of 43%,” he said. initiatives to express solidarity with the country’s Ooredoo won three accolades at the Middle East He also said that in the home market in Qatar, people and leadership during the period, further Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) Awards Ooredoo continued to grow its customer base reinforcing its strong connection with the in recognition for its long-standing commitment and data revenues. In its biggest international communities of Qatar. to fair, timely and ongoing disclosure and its operation in Indonesia, the company reported promotion of transparency. The awards were positive revenue and EBITDA as a result of growth DATA REVENUE GROWTH presented at a glittering ceremony on September in customers and the benefits of its cost-efficiency Ooredoo Chairman Sheikh Abdulla outlined the 20, 2017. programme. company’s successful strategy in becoming a The awards presented included 'Best “Ooredoo Kuwait and Ooredoo Oman reported global data experience leader, pointing to the Corporate for Investor Relations' and 'Best higher revenues. Asiacell in Iraq gained more strength of its network across markets in the Investor Relations Professional' awards for Qatar business in liberated areas, enhancing its leading Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia, as and the second place for 'Best Investor Relations market position. Ooredoo Algeria’s financial well as its remarkable data revenue growth in Website' in the Middle East

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VODAFONE: QATAR’S PARTNER IN PROGRESS IN LINE WITH THE AMBITIONS, DREAMS AND VISIONS OF THE NATION, VODAFONE QATAR HAS BEEN PLAYING ITS ROLE TO BE RECOGNISED AS A LONG-TERM PARTNER IN THE COUNTRY.

he Qatar National Vision 2030 a major network outage with its Home Location to enhance its network resiliency with new encompasses economic, social, Register, a key hardware component of its core hardware and software that exceeds industry human and environmental pillars network. The equipment failure took place standards,” said the company. designed to shape the country’s during a network upgrade and extended to the After resolving the technical issues that T progress in the coming decades, network back-up and redundancy systems. impacted its network, the company has also so that it is inclusive and beneficial to its entire However, its officials deployed all available announced the details of its YOU FIRST customer population. resources to restore full connectivity across the appreciation programme, under which all The company, which has been providing network with the support of network experts Vodafone’s consumer and business postpaid cellular mobile telecommunication and fixed who flew into Qatar from the Vodafone Group. customers were offered a total of 18 GB of line services in Qatar for nearly a decade, “Vodafone is now taking further measures complimentary data for the next three months, believes that there are good reasons to be 6 GB each month plus 30% of their monthly plan optimistic about the future as emerging fee credited on their next bill. innovations in science and technology begin to Even the new postpaid customers who sign up have a profoundly positive impact on society. before August 15 last year received 30% of their Vodafone, which has been bringing new monthly plan fee credited to their first month’s technologies to millions of people worldwide bill. In addition, all balances that expired on July for many years to enhance the quality of life 17 were returned to customers in full. and transformation in the workplace, is helping Vodafone Qatar CEO Ian Gray said that the Qatar achieve its economic, environmental and company has always strived to provide its social goals across all its operations and teams. customers with world-class services every The company has been harnessing the power day and the outage of their network is most of technology and has been involved in projects disappointing for them and their customers. such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Msheireb “The road to progress is lined with challenges Downtown Doha, supporting Sidra Medicine but despite what has happened, we are inspired with state-of-the-art technology, as well as other by the spirit of our country, Qatar, and the large national projects to enable governments, “THE ROAD TO PROGRESS IS LINED WITH strength of our dedicated team,” he said. CHALLENGES BUT DESPITE WHAT HAS businesses and individuals realise an exciting HAPPENED, WE ARE INSPIRED BY THE He continued: “We want to assure customers future. SPIRIT OF OUR COUNTRY, QATAR, AND that we are stronger now that we have made THE STRENGTH OF OUR DEDICATED TEAM.” it through. We thank our customers for their DISRUPTION IN SERVICES loyalty and because sorry is not just a word, The company’s 3G and 4G+ voice and data IAN GRAY we’ve launched the YOU FIRST programme in CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER services were disrupted on July 17, 2017 due to VODAFONE QATAR appreciation of their patience.”

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GOOD PERFORMANCE class technology.” was considering various options for securing Announcing its financial results for the six additional funds for its growth. The other months ending on September 30, 2017 CHANGE IN FINANCIAL YEAR proposals included the introduction of a limit of Vodafone Qatar reported a net profit of QR47.8 In a major development, Vodafone Qatar 5% on individual shareholdings in the company million (excluding amortization), representing changed its financial year from April 1 to January and for voting in the general assemblies, an improvement of 26.4%, driven by assets 1, which was approved by the shareholders at excluding the founding shareholders, Vodafone becoming fully depreciated. an extraordinary general assembly meeting on Group Plc and relevant Qatari government Despite the network outage that took place October 18, 2017. entities. Moreover, the procedures for the in July, the company’s EBITDA stood at QR236 The meeting was chaired by Gray and attended election of the chairman and the requirements million for the six-month period. The EBITDA by Board member Nasser Al Marri and Chief for new board membership conditions were margin improved in H1 2018 to reach 25%, up Financial Officer Brett Goschen. addressed during the meeting. from 23.7% over the same period last year, In his address, Gray explained: “The proposed representing a 1.3% points increase IPHONE X LAUNCHED (year-on-year), aided by a more The company launched iPhone X, the profitable product mix and a QR18 future of the smartphone, after an million reversal of provisions no unprecedented demand that saw the longer required. smartphone sell out in less than two Total revenue and service revenue hours at the opening of pre-orders on in H1 2018 declined to QR945 million October 27. and QR899 million, respectively, due Vodafone launched iPhone X in to events arising from the network Qatar on November 3 in line with outage and an aggressive pricing the official iPhone X launch in Los environment. The net financing Angeles. The Vodafone team went the position continued to improve to extra mile to ensure their customers reach QR626 million in Q2 2018. were the first to receive the iPhone The economic slowdown and X by personally delivering the most holidays saw the total number of anticipated smartphone of the year customers decrease by 68,000 – from to customers who had made a pre- 1,457,000 to 1,389,000, compared order. with the same period last year. Vodafone’s brand ambassadors However, postpaid customers grew Saoud Al Maadeed and Rashid Al by 20.8%, led by the popularity of Vodafone’s changes to the company’s Articles of Association Kuwari surprised the first customer who pre- FLEX plans. will closely align the company with the other ordered online by delivering the iPhone X to FLEX is an innovative product which gives listed companies in Qatar, allow us to incorporate his doorstep. More than 300 customers also customers the freedom and flexibility to use the recently issued Corporate Governance Rules showed up at the company’s store located at data, make local and international calls and SMS for Companies and Legal Entities listed on the Villaggio Mall to mark the launch with all the interchangeably on one balance with no pre- Qatar Stock Exchange, issued by the Qatar day’s excitement captured on Vodafone’s social fixed quota. Financial Markets Authority, and enable us to set channels. In his comments, Gray said: “Despite the the company for future growth.” Timed with the launch, Vodafone also setback in July, our recovery and growth plans The meeting covered the change of the launched great data offers for both postpaid and continue. We also recently announced our new company’s financial year-end to start on prepaid customers who purchased iPhone X. All brand positioning ‘The Future is Exciting.... January 1 and end on December 31. This new and existing Vodafone postpaid customers Ready?’ in which we want our customers to truly will ensure alignment of the company’s will enjoy 8 GB a month of local data for three feel our commitment to Qatar and trust that results announcements and other reporting months with their new iPhone. Vodafone the Vodafone brand will always be their digital requirements with the local market. prepaid customers will receive 8 GB of local data partner delivering great innovation and world- The meeting also clarified that the company for 90 days

64 CULTURE AND SPORTS

HE SALAH BIN GHANEM BIN NASSER AL ALI MINISTER OF CULTURE AND SPORTS PROGRESS 2017-2018 CULTURE AND SPORTS

A YEAR OF ART, CULTURE AND NATIONALISM AIMING AT BECOMING ONE OF THE ART CAPITALS IN THE WORLD, QATAR CONTINUES TO MAKE STRIDES TO MAKE THE COUNTRY HOME TO LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL ART MASTERPIECES.

very year, Qatar hosts a variety Islamic tradition and foreign artistic influences. of local and new international Through the high level of patronage and artistic art exhibitions and installations. craftsmanship, patrons and artists succeeded From historic exhibitions of Islamic in shaping this cultural exchange. Focusing on E dynasties to Qatar Germany 2017 carpets as the prominent medium, manuscripts, Year of Culture, the year gone by was rich with metalwork, ceramics, and other objects are also artistic and cultural exhibitions. And of course, featured in this exhibition, which illustrate the the year was a demonstration of art exhibitions historical and artistic context of this time. inspired by the blockade on Qatar, presented by Following ‘Imperial Threads’ is the ‘Powder both locals and expats alike. and Damask: Islamic Arms and Armour from the Collection of Fadel Al Mansoori’ exhibition, which THE EXHBITIONS opened on August 27, 2017 at MIA and will run One of the biggest exhibitions in 2017 was until May 12, 2018. The 10-month-long exhibition ‘Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisans from Turkey, showcases Islamic arms and armour from the Iran and India’, which opened on March 15, 2017 "THE QATAR NATIONAL DAY private collection of Qatari collector Fadel Al CELEBRATIONS AT DARB AL SAAI ARE OF at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). The exhibition SPECIAL IMPORTANCE BECAUSE THEY Mansoori. Including both edged weapons and brought a new perspective to MIA’s collection by HIGHLIGHT THE UNITY BETWEEN EXPATS firearms, the objects on display range from the showing the connection between three major AND QATARIS. THE BLOCKADE AGAINST 17th to the 19th century and were produced QATAR HAS INCREASED THE SOLIDARITY dynasties which mark the start of the early modern AND UNITY BETWEEN ITS CITIZENS AND primarily in greater Turkey, Iran and India. Powder period in Islamic art. With this interaction between RESIDENTS." and Damask explores the art of craftsmanship, the Ottoman, Safavid and Mughal dynasties, HE SALAH BIN GHANEM BIN which reached unprecedented levels in these an entirely new distinctive range of motifs NASSER AL ALI, regions under the Ottoman, Safavid and Mughal emerged, referencing and building upon earlier MINISTER OF CULTURE AND SPORTS empires, and considers these objects not only

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as weapons but also as works of art. Without degrading their functionality, arms and armour in Islamic lands became an art that found its place in the hands of sultans, high-ranking commanders and elite members of society. One of the most highly anticipated exhibitions in Qatar in 2017 was the ‘Skate Girls of Kabul’ by the award-winning photographer Jessica Fulford-Dobson. She presented her series of striking portraits, which will tell the extraordinary story of Afghan girls who took up skateboarding with Skateistan, an Afghan charity that provides skate parks as a means to get children from disadvantaged families back into the educational system. The exhibition took place from July 20 to October 21, 2017 at the QM Gallery at Katara Cultural Village. Soon after, Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Msheireb Properties, officially inaugurated a new permanent exhibition titled ‘A Journey to the Heart of Life’, located at Bin Jelmood House at Msheireb Museums in October 2017. In line with Her Highness’ vision, the

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healthier society. As part of Qatar Germany 2017 Year of Culture, organised by QM, the German Embassy in Doha and the Goethe-Institut Gulf Region, QM opened two exhibitions, 'Driven by German Design' and 'German Encounters – Contemporary Masterworks from the Deutsche Bank Collection', on October 3, 2017. 'Driven by German Design' is open at Al Riwaq Gallery until January 14. Curated by renowned museum director Professor Dr Martin Roth, 'Driven by German Design' features numerous design objects loaned from some of Germany’s most significant cultural institutions such as the Vitra Design Museum, Neue Sammlung, Porsche Museum and Museum fiir Angewandte Kunst Frankfurt. The exhibition traces the development of German design over more than six decades, from the 1950s to the present day, and provides a glimpse into the future. A major highlight of the Qatar Germany 2017 Year of Culture was the selection of artworks from the Deutsche Bank Collection – one of the world’s most important corporate collections of contemporary art – which was on display at the Garage Gallery at the Doha Fire Station until October 20, 2017. More than 100 exemplary works on paper including photographs, and paintings by 27 artists provide an informative overview of the development of German art – and thus also of the history of the country – from the 1960s up to the present day. The first-rate selection of contemporary art features works by Joseph Beuys and by the neo-expressionist painters such as Georg Baselitz and Markus Liipertz; photographers exhibition is a collaboration between Msheireb how the mapping of human development can help of the Düsseldorf School, including Andreas Museums and biomedical research institutions, its citizens today, and in the future.” Gursky, Candida Höfer, and Thomas Ruff; and including Qatar Genome Programme, Qatar The exhibition focuses on DNA and includes hugely influential post-conceptual artists such Biobank, Sidra Medical Research Center and Weill six sections that give visitors an opportunity to as Isa Genzken, Rosemarie Trockel and Martin Cornell Medical College. explore genetic inheritance and prehistoric human Kippenberger. The collection also includesd Hafiz Ali, Msheireb Museums Director, said: ‘‘‘A migrations. It aims to further guests’ understanding renowned figurative paintings by Neo Rauch, as Journey to the Heart of Life’’ is the latest addition of the advances in modern medicine and genomics well as abstract acrylic works by Katharina Grosse to our internationally acclaimed exhibits at and its capacity to help with early detection and photographs by Annette Kelm. Msheireb Museums. It completes the four heritage of disease, as well as creation of personalised house permanent collections designed to tell the medicine. The exhibition looks at the process of ART AND THE GULF CRISIS history of our land and people and the journey to understanding genetics and genomics and how Qatar Museums (QM), the lead body for museums modern-day Qatar. In this scientific and historical that is reflected in the history of humanity. It tells a in Qatar chaired by Sheikha Al Mayassa bint exhibit, visitors will enjoy the unique, dynamic and story of migration and integration across the earth, Hamad Al Thani, is making strides to create a interactive exhibition experiences visitors have revealing the scientific underpinnings of common public art and culture centre in the country. From come to love. This opening is intended to help our humanity by advances in genetic research, and striking sculpture and specially commissioned nation understand the origins of our people and how this knowledge is being used to make a photography, QM public art pieces are immersive,

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informal and often outdoors. They are found in Qatar to submit an artwork that showcased their country for Almaadheed. In addition, a variety public spaces, like Hamad International Airport support for the country during this historical of Qatar blockade-inspired exhibitions included (HIA), Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), time. Selected artists got the chance to produce Abdullhameed Al Siddiqi’s ‘Qatar Icons’, which Salwa Road tunnels, Aspire Park, and most a mural on a bridge, tunnel or wall within the was organised in collaboration with Rolls-Royce recently, the Doha Fire Station. country. Motor Cars Doha. As part of QM’s ‘100 days of blockade’ art With the current ongoing Gulf crisis, residents The year concluded with the much-anticipated initiative, the Doha Fire Station on September 12, of Qatar began to show solidarity with the country Le Blockade, a multimedia exhibition of work 2017 unveiled five emotive artworks produced by bearing the iconic image of the Emir HH Sheikh created in response to the blockade, which was by citizens and residents. The powerful artworks, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in their cars, homes held at Katara Cultural Village as part of Ajyal which are showcased on the facade of the Fire and workplaces. The Tamim Al Majd (Tamim The Youth Film Festival 2017, from November 29 to Station building, reflect each artist's personal Glorious) image was created by young Qatari December 4, 2017. take on the blockade. The medium of choice was artist Ahmed bin Majed Almaadheed, who shared graffiti, evoking its origins as a form of activism his artwork via social media where it instantly LARGER THAN LIFE ART and self-expression, which are easily understood went viral, becoming the beacon of unity and In October 2017, QM and Sheikha Al Mayassa by the broader community. solidarity in Qatar. Al Thani announced that the gigantic cartoon The artists involved in this initiative were MIA has gathered over 40 ‘Tamim Al Majd’ sculpture, 'Small Lies', by graffiti artist, illustrator, Mubarak Al Malik, Ali Al Kuwari, Dimitrje Bugarski, murals of different shapes and sizes from all painter, sculptor, product designer and toymaker, Thamer Mesfer and Assil Diab. Each artist over the country and installed them at MIA Park, KAWS, would join the art installations at HIA. produced an artwork which highlighted an aspect giving the public a closer look at the messages As part of an ongoing tour series to a number of the blockade, resulting in a series of outdoor of encouragement and solidarity shared by the of significant cultural attractions throughout installations that tell the story of the blockade to residents and visitors of all ages, backgrounds Qatar, QM’s collaboration with HIA organised a audiences in the most creative manner. and nationalities. According to MIA, the special tour to HIA exclusively for Culture Pass These five artworks represented the first stage personalised 'graffiti' messages are some of the members, showcasing some of QM’s public art of the ‘100 days of blockade’ initiative, which truest examples of public art in Qatar, which now pieces. Organised on November 28, 2017, the was launched by QM under the patronage of its join the many public art works placed throughout tour featured artworks by local, regional and Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad the country by QM, to mark a significant milestone international artists. bin Khalifa Al Thani. The initiative provided an in Qatar’s modern history. More pieces will be installed over time from opportunity for those living in Qatar to express After gaining nationwide recognition for international artists, including Adel Abdessemed, their feelings on the blockade through creative his artwork, Ahmed Almaadheed had his first Dia Azzawi, Ahmed Al Bahrani, Maurizio Cattelan, means. exhibition, 'Tamim The Glorious', at Art 29 Don Gummer, Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Jenny As part of the second phase of the initiative, Gallery at W Doha Hotel on July 1 to September Holzer, Tom Otterness, Anselm Reyle and Bill QM accepted proposals from artists based in 10. Many exhibitions then followed across the Viola

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POWER OF SPORTS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER QATAR OLYMPIC COMMITTEE PRESIDENT JOAAN BIN HAMAD AL THANI REFLECTS ON THE COUNTRY'S MOMENTS TO SAVOUR IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS IN 2017.

ver recent months, I have been and beliefs and promotes inclusivity, diversity and it is our ambition to unite our nation through incredibly humbled by how and respect. Sport is an incredibly powerful tool Team Qatar. our nation has united through to guide the aspirations, hopes and dreams of our It was with this vision in mind that we organised a shared pride and love for young people. this year’s National Day Team Qatar flag relay. O Qatar. We are an ambitious and This is why I love sport so much and this is why Over 400 athletes, schoolchildren, sports fans and optimistic nation, driven forward by our solidarity we launched our new ‘Team Qatar’ brand and inspirational individuals representing the diversity and the strength and ability of our people to strategy, which embodies the shared values of of Qatar carried the flag 200 km across our country achieve the very best for our country. our nation. Every day our athletes are striving to and its most iconic landmarks, transporting it via For me, sport transcends everything that this better themselves and to make Qatar proud. They a wide variety of sporting activities, including year’s National Day celebrations epitomised show what can be achieved through hard work, running, cycling, rowing, sailing, wheelchair and it is for this reason that sport is at the heart determination, self-belief and fair play. There are racing and more, before culminating in a unifying of our nation’s future development plans. Sport no better role models for our young people and, celebration in the heart of Qatar’s National Day showcases the very best of humanity and it through our new brand, we are determined to festivities, Darb Al Saai. The Team Qatar flag inspires humanity to give the very best version place a greater focus on our heroes, sharing their relay was a wonderful occasion that showcased of itself. It inspires us all to push our boundaries, stories, showcasing their journeys, and inspiring the very best of our nation and its people, whilst break down barriers and set our goals higher. It our nation through their incredible achievements. transmitting a message of peace, friendship and brings together different cultures, backgrounds Our athletes are constantly flying Qatar’s flag high solidarity, spreading the Olympic values and

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Mutaz Barshim kisses the gold medal he won at the 2017 London World Championships.

uniting everyone through Team Qatar. December and as the youngest weightlifter in Indoor Games as he won Qatar’s first gold in the Our National Day celebrations also recognised the competition, proving once again that he will individual show jumping competition, adding the outstanding achievements of our athletes be one of the key weightlifters to watch at the another victory to our equestrian team’s recent on the world stage throughout the past year, 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In July, our para-athletes accolades. and it is the diversity of these achievements that made further history at the 2017 London World However, the highlight of the year for Qatari has made me most proud. In May, Al Dana Al Championships. Abdelrahman Abdelqader sports was created once again by our sporting Mubarak became our first female athlete to win became Qatar’s first-ever Para-Athletics World legend Mutaz Barshim. Following another a gold medal at the Islamic Solidarity Games by Champion with gold in the T34 shot put event, outstanding season where he became world claiming the 25 m pistol shooting title, whilst and Sara Masoud, who became Qatar’s first-ever champion, Barshim won the Diamond League teammate Kholood Al Khalaf won bronze in the global female medallist with a silver at the 2016 Trophy, became the first highjumper to be mixed team trap shooting, reflecting the strength Rio Paralympic Games, added another silver undefeated in an entire season since 2004 and and exciting future potential of our young medal to her collection, also in the T34 shot jumped over 2.40 m for the fifth consecutive year, female shooting team. In June, 19-year-old Fares put. Just a few weeks later in the same London and received the ANOC Award for best athlete in Ibrahim was crowned World Junior Champion in Stadium, 20-year-old Abdelalah Haroun built on Asia in 2017. Mutaz concluded the year by winning weightlifting, adding to his 2016 Asian Games title his 2016 World Youth Championship gold medal the prestigious IAAF World Athlete of the Year title, and seventh place finish at the 2016 Rio Olympics. to claim a senior World Championship bronze taking the crown from Usain Bolt. In doing so, Our prodigious talent continued his strong form medal in a strong 400 m final. In September, Mutaz became the first highjumper and the first by claiming a silver medal in the clean & jerk in our young equestrian athlete Hamad Al Attiyah athlete from our region to win the award. Mutaz his first senior World Championships in early shone at the Ashgabat 2017 Asian Martial Arts and is a truly deserving winner and we could not be

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From left to right: Nasser Al Attiyah, Sheikh Joaan, Sheikh Khalifa and HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali at a flag-raising ceremony.

Fares Ibrahim wins a silver medal in the clean and jerk event at the 2017 World Sheikh Khalifa and Mutaz Barshim run with the Weightlifting Championships. Qatari flag. prouder of him for demonstrating what can be that will become effective later in life. The launch attention of new generations of athletes, and achieved through dedication and determination, was a huge success and it was a pleasure to see inspire our youth to participate in sport at any and for consistently flying the flag high for Qatar. how much fun and enjoyment the children got level. We are incredibly honoured and excited He is humble, hardworking and an inspirational from participating in the sporting activities. I’ve no to host these events and progress is very much role model for young people in Qatar and around doubt that a future Mutaz Barshim was amongst on track, continuing unaffected by the current the world. them. political situation. The Qatar Olympic Committee is committed Another significant opportunity to inspire Most importantly, we are committed to to building on these achievements and ensuring future sporting heroes will be through our hosting these events at the highest possible that our development systems continue to upcoming World Championships. In 2017, as level, continuing to show the world what Qatar is produce more and more Qatari champions. part of momentous handover ceremonies, we capable of and creating a unique and memorable In October, we successfully rolled out the first had the honour to receive the flags for the FIG experience for everyone that participates – be stage of Kun Riyadi, our Athlete Development Artistic Gymnastics and IAAF Athletics World they spectators, athletes, coaches, officials, Pathway that aims at identifying, nurturing and Championships, which Doha is hosting in 2018 media, volunteers and more. We firmly believe in developing talent at every stage of an athlete’s and 2019, respectively. Both events will be staged the power of sport to unite, inspire and transform career. The first stage focuses on early childhood, in the Middle East for the first time and will bring lives in Qatar and the rest of the world. This is encouraging active play and exploration for with them a unique chance to showcase the very exactly what the Olympic spirit is all about and 0-7-year-olds to help them develop motor skills best of each sport to new audiences, capture the this is the fundamental ethos of Team Qatar

72 INFRASTRUCTURE

HE JASSIM BIN SAIF AL SULAITI MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONS STATE OF QATAR PROGRESS 2017-2018 INFRASTRUCTURE

REGAINING LOST GROUND THE INAUGURATION OF THE NEW REFINERY AT RAS LAFFAN, MERGERS, ANNOUNCEMENT OF FUTURE PLANS, CONTINGENCY AS WELL AS PERMANENT ARRANGEMENTS AND NEW ALLIANCES IN THE FACE OF TRAVEL TRADE SANCTIONS MARKED QATAR’S CORPORATE SECTOR IN 2017.

ne of the major developments emissions, zero flaring during normal operation company has announced a change in its financial among Qatari companies was and zero waste water discharge to the sea. year from January 1 to December 31 from 2018 the inauguration of the Laffan The new refinery processes condensate onwards. Refinery 2 by the Emir HH Sheikh to produce five high-quality products. These O Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in products support the energy and industry sectors PRIORITIES RESET early 2017. by providing energy sources and raw feedstock The economic blockade imposed by the Saudi The inauguration of Laffan Refinery 2 marked the material, namely naphtha, kerojet (A-1), diesel and Arabia-led group, which includes Bahrain, the culmination of a strategic expansion to Qatargas’ liquefied petroleum gas in the form of propane UAE and Egypt, has caught many companies world-class facilities in Ras Laffan Industrial City, and butane. It also creates new economic unawares, both in the public and private sectors, effectively doubling Qatar’s condensate refining opportunities by enhancing export capacity and but they were quick to reset their priorities. capacity to 292,000 barrels per day. therefore the ability to supply the international While companies such as Qatar Petroleum took Laffan Refinery 2 is an important milestone demand for energy. adequate measures to minimize the impact of the in the development of the oil and gas sector As far as the companies listed on the Qatar ban, many local and international law firms are in Qatar due to its strategic role in diversifying Stock Exchange are concerned, the combined reviewing a large number of cases for damage Qatar’s energy mix. As such, Laffan Refinery 2 is net profit of 44 of the 45 companies listed on the claims filed by scores of companies and hundreds expected to make a significant contribution to bourse stood at QR29.3 billion as of September 30, of individuals, legal experts familiar with such the sustained economic development of Qatar 2017 (first three quarters) as against QR31.1 billion cases told an English daily in Qatar. by optimising the country’s natural resources for for the corresponding period in 2016, indicating a The affected parties have filed cases in a many generations to come. decrease of 6%. number of courts in Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Laffan Refinery 2 not only created value for Only Vodafone Qatar was not included in the Arabia, Switzerland, the UK and the US. Damage Qatar and its shareholders, but also adheres to the announcement as the financial year starts on April compensation claims made by businesses, highest environmental standards through low gas 1 and ends on March 31 of each year. But even this companies and individuals for all kinds of losses

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The Emir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani inaugurating the Laffan Refinery 2 project in February 2017. they suffered (or have been suffering) due to the obligations to all customers and partners locally, commitment to maintaining its internationally illegal economic and diplomatic siege are very regionally and internationally. renowned reputation of a safe, trustworthy strong cases, the daily added. Qatar Petroleum President & CEO and Chairman and reliable energy producer and supplier. “We In response to the unfortunate developments, of Qatargas, Eng. Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, said the are moving forward, exploring opportunities, Qatar Petroleum and its subsidiaries have ongoing blockade targeted Qatar’s oil and gas enhancing our international partnerships and mobilised all available resources and activated business and the measures were basically aimed strengthening Qatar’s leading position as a their business continuity plans to mitigate the at interrupting their export of hydrocarbons in any major player in the global oil and gas industry. impact of any action that could hamper their way possible but they have reacted in a clear and With this renewed determination comes a more efforts to ensure safe and reliable energy supplies decisive manner. determined desire not only to maintain but also to all their customers across the globe. “We managed to absorb the initial impact to further develop our historic relations with our A spokesman for the company said they of those measures and were able to continue friends in Japan.” were closely monitoring and assessing all operating and exporting normally without any developments and were prepared to take the disruption across all our oil and gas facilities,” he MERGERS AND TIE-UPS necessary decisions and measures, should the said. Qatar Vinyl Company merged with Qatar need arise, to honour their commitments and He further asserted Qatar Petroleum’s Petrochemical Company, which has been

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operating Qatofin since February 2017. The MTPA by 2030. by one million barrels of oil equivalent per day. objective of this integration was to enhance the Projected population growth in developing Saad Sherida Al Kaabi said: “We announced last competitiveness, financial performance and economies, continuing high rates of urbanisation April our intention to develop a new gas project in resilience of both companies by creating a single globally and an increasingly environmentally the southern sector of the North Field that can be world-class petrochemical operator achieving conscientious public pushing for more regulations targeted for export. With the conclusion of further synergies in size, service and reliability. to adopt cleaner fuels in an effort to improve air technical studies we have decided that the best The Qatar Petroleum President and CEO said quality have all been driving demand. Moreover, option would be to double the size of the project that the successful integration was another LNG for commercial land-based transport and to four billion cubic feet of gas per day, which testament to their commitment to increasing marine bunkering is forecast to grow exponentially constitutes a 20% increase from the current North the efficiency, effectiveness and competitiveness if policy initiatives currently under consideration Field production rate, or about one million barrels of all their operations. “I have no doubt that the are enacted at a national, regional or global level, of oil equivalent per day.” combined distinctive resources and capabilities according to Qatargas. He further said the best way to develop of the three companies will further enhance In view of this, Qatar has decided to raise the this huge project was by dedicating it to the the value for our customers as well as for the clean fuel production from 77 million tons to 100 production and export of LNG, thereby increasing companies’ respective shareholders,” he added. million tons per year in the next five to seven years. the production capacity of Qatar from 77 million Qatar Petroleum’s Wave LNG Solutions and Shell The new additional volumes will be secured tons to 100 million tons per year, which means Gas & Power Developments signed an agreement by doubling the size of the new gas project in the a 30% production increase. “This project will to develop liquefied petroleum gas (LNG) marine southern sector of the North Field, which Qatar strengthen our position as the world’s largest fueling – or bunkering – infrastructure at strategic Petroleum had announced last April. This will LNG producer and exporter in line with Qatar shipping locations across the globe to provide the increase the North Field’s production of natural Petroleum’s strategic growth plan and objectives shipping industry with a new fuel that helps meet gas, condensate and other associated products of becoming one of the best national oil and gas the environmental and economic objectives. companies in the world, with roots in Qatar and a The agreement is a follow-up to the two strong international presence.” Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) Shell and “The project will also raise the production of Qatargas signed with industry partners in 2016 the State of Qatar to about six million barrels of oil to explore LNG bunkering opportunities in the equivalent per day,” he added. Middle East. In 2016, the International Maritime NAKILAT’S PROFITS WANE Organisation announced the introduction of Nakilat, a Qatari-owned marine company a global 0.5% sulfur cap from 2020 to reduce providing a transportation link in Qatar’s LNG sulphur and nitrogen oxide emissions from ships supply chain, reported losses at the end of the due to which many ship owners and operators third quarter (September 30) in 2017. started looking at LNG as a marine fuel. The company’s net profit stood at QR607 Al Kaabi said that the LNG demand for million compared with QR749 million for the same bunkering was expected to increase significantly period in 2016. over the coming years and they believed there The lower profit was mainly attributed to is real potential for such demand to reach up to the effect of changing the estimated scrap 50 million tons per annum by 2030. “Obviously, value of vessels in accordance with applicable achieving this figure requires focused investments “WE MANAGED TO ABSORB THE INITIAL International Accounting Standards and the lower and the right partnership model, similar to the IMPACT OF THOSE MEASURES, AND number of charter hire days in the current period one we are establishing today,” he added. WERE ABLE TO CONTINUE OPERATING compared to the same period last year since 2016 AND EXPORTING NORMALLY WITHOUT ANY DISRUPTION ACROSS ALL OUR OIL was a leap year. RAMPING UP LNG OUTPUT AND GAS FACILITIES.” On the other hand, the company effectively Reports say that the demand for LNG was maintained its operating expenses and reduced ENG. SAAD SHERIDA AL KAABI expected to grow by nearly five percentage PRESIDENT AND CEO its finance costs due to the timely repayment of points every year, on average, to almost 500 QATAR PETROLEUM the periodic loan instalments

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IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN: NASSER BIN KHALED HOLDING NASSER BIN KHALED HOLDING IS ONE OF THE LEADING FAMILY BUSINESS GROUPS IN QATAR. IT WAS FOUNDED IN THE EARLY 1950s BY THE LATE SHEIKH NASSER BIN KHALED AL THANI.

Nasser Bin Khaled Khaled has achieved more than Holding (NBK) has a just astounding commercial distinct vision with success. Today, the company has E a commitment to earned unprecedented levels of establishing a world-class company, credibility and trust among its one in which entrepreneurial clients in Qatar and beyond. A excellence is the norm, and whose testament to this fact can be found innovative and ethical business in the company’s strategic alliances practices would benefit not only its with internationally renowned individual customers, but the State organisations. of Qatar. For over five decades, Nasser Nasser Bin Khaled is dedicated Bin Khaled has remained true to contributing to the development to its pledge to proactively and of our country, thereby shaping a strategically contribute to building future that glows with promise. It a thriving Qatar. It achieves this by upholds a core philosophy that is constantly upgrading its lines of based on innovation, transparency, businesses, services and its societal hard work and persistence with commitment. regards to its local and international Over the years, Nasser Bin stakeholders. Khaled widened its umbrella of The group attributes its successes businesses to include several new to an extremely proficient team companies with various operations, which has always been at the heart and partnered with key multi- of executing major private and national organisations. NBK owns public developmental projects in major companies in the fields of the country, and which has made automotive, construction, oil and

Nasser Bin Khaled’s vision a reality. THE LATE SHEIKH NASSER BIN KHALED AL THANI gas, agriculture, real estate, fashion, Since its inception, Nasser Bin hospitality, marine and IT. Nasser

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Bin Khaled has aligned itself with many global ranked high on Qatar’s national agenda. The Bringing to the market a combination of companies offering prestigious brands such as country is bound to the pledge of establishing deep-rooted local expertise and international Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Mitsubishi an integrated healthcare centre and system knowledge in real estate, Nasser Bin Khaled Fuso, Harley-Davidson, Maxus, MG, BAIC and of excellence, a system that allows for better- boasts top-quality strategic, proactive business Michelin to name a few. off and well-enhanced health and nutrition operations, transparency and professionalism. Today, in the automotive industry, Nasser services caring for local as well as regional GCC With a mission to enhance the urban and Bin Khaled is a leading provider of premium citizens who prioritise a longer quality lifestyle. social milieu in Qatar, NBK has engaged in the international products and services that cater to Compelled to rise to the occasion, Nasser Bin buying, selling and maintenance of property, the ever-growing local market demands. Nasser Khaled introduced a Medical Equipment division as well as coordinating property management Bin Khaled earned the trust and esteem of the to provide leading brands of medical supplies that for industrial, commercial and residential local market by providing quality products and a span hospital furniture, gymnasiums and health buildings plus a diversified range of corporate diversified lineup of multinational names, turning equipment, medical gases and tubes, first aid investment and retail operations, with services Qatar into one of the most prominent competitive and emergency equipment, medical treatment extended to reach project development, design automotive markets in the region and well facilities, amongst other items. and supervision, feasibility studies and annual beyond. Moreover, Nasser Bin Khaled secured its budgeting. Additionally, Nasser Bin Khaled founded heavy involvement in many landmark developments As Qatar moves forward, the vision of the equipment, power generation, material handling including the Mercedes-Benz Showroom, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al and transportation solutions divisions to provide Central Bank of Qatar, West Bay Al Salam Plaza, Thani, is unfolding in the form of impressive the country, its developing companies and its Sealine Beach Resort, West Corner Centre, in achievements. Nasser Bin Khaled’s success has citizens with an all-encompassing sole provider of addition to various schools and the Ministry of played a leading role in Qatar’s overall rapid premium automotive services and products. Education projects among other prestigious development, contributing to the growth of the As one of the leading local homegrown projects completed throughout 30 years of economy and community. conglomerates, Nasser Bin Khaled continuously experience. Also, the company has employed Guided by its vision for the future, Nasser Bin aims at boosting Qatar’s status as one of its experience and expertise on public buildings, Khaled is poised to keep on leading the Qatari today’s world energy giants, environmental and mixed-use compounds, deluxe villas, pump market with its various services and product agriculture specialists, as well as home care and stations, factories, workshops and sea ports. lines, all the while following the innovative, healthcare regional key players. The business group has also been closely pragmatic and proactive strategies that cater With a shift from a strictly petrochemical linked to Qatar’s first true community lifestyle to the diversifying requirements of a modern, economy to a diversified economy, healthcare development, Al Wa’ab City. cosmopolitan market

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MAINTAINING AN UNINTERRUPTED SUPPLY INDICATORS SHOWED HIGH PERFORMANCE RATES AT KAHRAMAA IN THE THIRD QUARTER OF 2017 IN GENERAL, ESPECIALLY IN THE MAIN DEPARTMENTS. AND THEY HAVE SUCCEEDED IN MEETING THE COUNTRY’S REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICITY AND WATER ROUND THE CLOCK.

lectricity transmission and Kahramaa’s financial sustainability. distribution networks’ performance With regard to major projects, Kahramaa had, indicators in the third quarter during the third quarter of the year, opened the of 2017 recorded high rates, building of Grand Hamad street power station E with the number of minutes and parking facility. The facility is composed of a of electricity loss in transmission networks 66/11 kV power transmission station and parking improving significantly to stand at 0.10 minutes, on six floors for about 270 vehicles, at a total cost the number of power cuts from consumers in of QR155 million. The project represents one of performance indicator (SAIFI) maintaining its level Kahramaa’s solutions in high power load and of 0.09 times, and the average power cuts from traffic density areas and contributes to helping consumers according to performance indicator resolve the parking crisis in the area. The Umm Al (SAIDI) registering 7.65 minutes. With regard to Houl production of water which is pumped into the quality of drinking water, the overall index the network reached 60 million gallons per day, exceeded the general standard of the World resulting in increasing the country’s total water “THE CORPORATION HAS REACHED, Health Organization. The water storage margin THROUGH THE ADOPTION OF production capacity by 15%, which is a qualitative increased significantly by over 14% as a result INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES AND addition to water security in the State of Qatar and of the entry into production of the Umm Al Houl MECHANISMS, MANY MILESTONES to the ability of Kahramaa to fulfill its obligation to AND MADE GREAT PROGRESS IN station in the network. The leakage rate in the ITS BUSINESSES AND PROJECTS provide sustainable and high-quality service. network decreased significantly to stand at 3.9% DURING THE THIRD QUARTER OF The treated wastewater network has been 2017, ESPECIALLY IN THE CURRENT in the third quarter of 2017. The response time for CIRCUMSTANCES, THANKS TO THE connected to six central cooling stations as an subscriber complaints improved significantly by EFFORTS OF ALL EMPLOYEES OF THE alternative to potable water. This will contribute CORPORATION WHO ARE THE MAIN 10% as a result of the use of GPS applications. CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS PROGRESS to the provision of about 4.7 million cubic metres On the other hand, the financial performance THAT KAHRAMAA IS WITNESSING IN of potable water worth about QR38 million. The of the corporation has improved significantly, VARIOUS FIELDS.” total saving of desalinated water is expected to especially in terms of the collection of fees and reach 56.88 million cubic metres, equivalent to HIS EXCELLENCY ENG. ISSA revenue increase. This has reduced the ratio BIN HILAL AL KUWARI QR452 million, by 2022. of government support, and thus enhanced PRESIDENT OF QATAR GENERAL ELECTRICITY & On the other hand, the third quarter of 2017 WATER CORPORATION (KAHRAMAA)

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witnessed the reduction of 12.6 million units of electricity and water in the country are met with This is a new achievement to be added to gas consumption (equivalent to about QR130 high efficiency. the projects implemented by the corporation million) due to the adoption of the operational Kahramaa has successfully implemented its and one of the challenges that Kahramaa has cost reduction programme. Transmission and strategic plans to complete the operation of the to encounter. Based on the feasibility studies distribution networks’ condition monitoring first power station to serve Qatar Rail Company to build several stations to feed the new rail systems succeeded in achieving a cost saving of in Ras Abu Fontas area and provide power for the projects and expand other feeder stations, the about QR45 million. Doha Metro project, which will be in line with the implementation of which was expeditiously The indicators showed high performance levels operational frameworks of the stations and in awarded, technical requirements to use in the field of health, safety and environment service of the country’s vital future projects. technologies that guarantee the continuity of during the third quarter of 2017, with work hours Kahramaa completed the operational works electric power supply in emergencies were taken without injuries in the major strategic water of the 132/33 kV station. The project was into account, in full coordination with both the reservoir projects reaching 91 million hours. In implemented on July 17, 2017 after 16 months work teams of Kahramaa and Qatar Rail Company the same period, a number of health campaigns of work in cooperation with the assigned team and in line with the directives of the senior were organised for Kahramaa employees to and Qatar Rail. The station was supplied with management of the corporation, which helped to ensure a safe and healthy working environment. power by Al Thumama Super Station and Ras Abu overcome the obstacles which could hinder the HE Eng. Issa bin Hilal Al Kuwari, Chairman of Fontas power station. progress of work, and contributed to highlighting the corporation, expressed his happiness and The substation was designed by Kahramaa the importance of the service provided in light of appreciation for the achievements and great in two separate operational systems. The the urban sprawl witnessed by the country. progress made in the works and projects it first is a 132 kV/200 MVA and the second is a Also, Kahramaa is keen to follow the highest implemented during the third quarter of 2017 GPS 33 kV for a separate station for Qatar Rail standards of safety and security in all its activities through the adoption of innovative strategies Company as well as backup transformers and all and operations, including the Doha Metro project and mechanisms, especially in the current associated equipment. The substations of Ras where, until 17 July 2017, work hours without circumstances. He also praised the efforts of all Abu Fontas and the major Al Thumama station injury or accidents among the employees of the employees who contributed significantly to the were connected to electricity circuits of 2 X 132 project surpassed 3,375, in addition to adopting progress made by Kahramaa in various fields, and KV and were designed, installed and supplied the appropriate standards of working and living stressed the keenness of Kahramaa to look ahead with a reliable amount of power for the efficient conditions for workers, which has positively and ensure that its commitments to provide operation of the station. affected the completion of work

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SHEIKH ABDULLA BIN FAHAD BIN JASSEM BIN JABOR AL THANI CHAIRMAN GWC IN THE SPIRIT OF SOLIDARITY THE YEAR 2017 VALIDATED GULF WAREHOUSING COMPANY (GWC) AS A BONA FIDE NATIONAL ASSET.

WC harnessed its varied strengths participation in facilitating critical operations our Contract Logistics, Forwarding, and Transport in a seamless, effective manner in securing flight clearances, and providing vital departments providing innovative solutions to when our country needed it distribution and storage services. handle the hundreds of incoming charter flights the most. By bringing into play By leveraging every one of its strengths: from through the rest of the year. G our proven competencies in its nearly 2.5 million square metres of logistics operational management, customised solutions facilities distributed strategically across the SOLID FOUNDATIONS and personal development, we put forward a nation; its association with two of the world’s We have long established our loyalty to the nation determined and decisive exercise in solidarity largest freight and courier networks – through and its aspirations, not the least of which is the that immensely benefited the nation and its its partnership with Agility, and as the authorized recent launch of the GWC Bu Sulba Warehousing people. service contractor for UPS in Qatar; its judicious Park, the first of the country’s public-private deployment of the largest fleet of transport partnerships to bear fruit. The Park was OPPORTUNITY IN ADVERSITY vehicles in the nation; along with a host of completed and launched on schedule, and has GWC joined the nation in their shock at the dedicated assets and systems specifically provided the nation’s burgeoning SME sector with imposition of an unjust blockade – one that designed for the full spectrum of supply the best logistics infrastructure possible at the presented a challenge to our very sense of chain solutions, the company has been of key most competitive pricing. With the Qatar National identity. But under the astute guidance of the Emir assistance to business continuity in the nation. Vision 2030 putting its trust in SMEs to deliver the His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Concurrently, through numerous improvement diversification vital to the strengthening of the the crisis became an opportunity to reaffirm our initiatives to our human resources, our IT assets, local economy, GWC has also played its part in sense of worth, solidarity and self-reliance. and our quality, health, safety, and environment making use of the relationships it has established We experienced this in action when overnight systems, the company fulfilled its nationalistic in the local market, drawing in numerous clients, the nation’s food retail companies ensured duty by being of instrumental service to its clients and achieving high occupancy of the Park since Qatar’s food security through charter flights during the food management crisis, entering into its opening earlier in the year. arriving with supplies, with GWC’s full-fledged a number of emergency contracts with them with The company has also expanded and fortified

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its other facilities, the most significant being the EXCELLENCE FROM WITHIN lives. Meanwhile, the company’s QHSE ensures work on Phase V of GWC’s Logistics Village Qatar, In order to provide our clients with the best value that we meet all the ISO standards, while also the country’s and the region’s largest one-stop while also ensuring the company’s best interest, implementing a number of business continuity shop for logistics solutions and the model of GWC’s Continuous Improvement division has initiatives needed to sustain the company’s success for the GWC Bu Sulba Warehousing Park. actively pushed to enhance the use of LEAN Six continued operations. This phase of development was completed in Sigma principles to reduce waste and maximize 2017 and has neared full occupancy. returns. In cooperation with the Corporate IT A VISION FOR THE FUTURE With regard to our industry-specific facilities, division, and as part of their digital transformation GWC is in step with Qatar and all its concerns, the Ras Laffan Industrial City hub in the West Side efforts for the company, the two divisions have with everyone in the company coming together in Service Area managed by GWC Hazmat has been worked assiduously to launch a new Customer support of the nation and its business community. expanded by 125,000 square metres, creating – in Relationship Management (CRM) software The company continues to implement its long- record time – a dedicated logistics supply base that will enable us to respond more quickly to term strategies and to seek out new markets and for a client in the Oil & Gas sector. customers, as well as provide them with more opportunities both within the State of Qatar and With the infrastructure developments in place, transparency and clarity in their operations. beyond. The company’s trust in its strategies GWC was successful with the country’s various Currently implemented in the Contract Logistics and in the marketplace led to an increase in business sectors and industries, among them and Freight departments, the aim in 2018 is to recruitment, rising from 2,000 employees at the food retail, FMCG, and Oil & Gas. GWC Contract implement this system across all departments end of 2015 to 2,200 employees by the end of Logistics also saw success in the expansion and business units, and provide customers with a 2017. of its fourth-party logistics (4PL) presence in direct, fully transparent, end-to-end view of their As a reflection of both the company’s the nation, entering into two major contracts operations. confidence in the market, as well as the market’s with government oil companies to provide the The company’s emphasis on LEAN principles, confidence in the company’s abilities, GWC and management systems and staff needed to run a with many of the initiatives executed to reduce Al Asmakh Real Estate Development have signed number of their warehouses. GWC Forwarding, overtime, has achieved client requirements within a Management Agreement that will bring the Al meanwhile, made a major foray into various the least amount of time, thereby improving Asmakh Logistics Park under the management industry sectors, with a special emphasis on Oil value as well as employee work-life balance. The of GWC for the 22-year period between 2018 & Gas, while making use of the newly opened and company’s Human Resources department has and 2040. Strategically located in the growing expanded sea ports in the country. Thanks to a also implemented a number of training sessions, North Doha districts, the Al Asmakh Logistics collaborative effort between the Forwarding and team-building exercises and social initiatives to Park boasts a number of features specifically Transport departments, the use of the company’s enhance employees’ professional and personal tailored to serve the needs of the nation’s small extensive fleet has been able to serve the and medium enterprise sector (SMEs). With GWC business community and customer. Additionally, undertaking the management of Al Asmakh the Transport department carried out more trips Logistics Park, the business community will in 2017 than prior years, resulting in the highest directly benefit from GWC’s expertise in providing profitability in the company’s history. unparalleled logistical support for more than a GWC Records has meanwhile continued to decade. widen its client base, entering into a number of This strategic partnership and the company’s contracts particularly in the government sector ongoing faith in the market are just two of several with a major focus on digitisation as a customer steps along a path where the company has value proposal. The company’s other niche continually displayed its allegiance to the nation departments, such as Fine Arts, Equestrian, and as it supported its ongoing needs, while also Sports, have also worked diligently to bring in laying foundations and strategies in line with the a number of contracts while working on the nation’s long-term vision, backed by resilience nation’s biggest events. In our endeavour as the and a preparedness for every contingency. By authorised service contractor for UPS, we have continuing to improve our customer focus, pursued an aggressive growth path, penetrating increase our operational efficiencies, and support the market even further, a strategy which also the country in its strategic initiatives, we fulfill our helped us sign a contract with Qatar Post to purpose in working with the nation towards a power their “Global Priority” service through the sustainable and diverse economy, while ensuring UPS network. the best possible returns to our shareholders

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OPENING DOORS TO QATAR QATAR AIRWAYS HAS ACCELERATED ITS GLOBAL EXPANSION PLANS WITH THE LAUNCH OF A NUMBER OF NEW DESTINATIONS, AND COMBINES EFFORTS WITH QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY (QTA) TO BOOST TOURISM IN THE COUNTRY.

he year 2017 was an unexpectedly of a series of measures that Qatar has taken to flights to Canberra (Australia), Thessaloniki challenging one for Qatar Airways facilitate visitors’ entry into the country. (Greece), Penang (Malaysia), and Cardiff (UK), to when the blockade on Qatar came As part of Qatar Airways’ and QTA’s combined name a few. into effect on June 5 as all flights efforts to boost tourism in the country, the In September 2017, Qatar launched an e-visa T to Qatar from UAE, Saudi Arabia, award-winning airline has accelerated its global platform, www.qatarvisaservice.com, through Bahrain and Egypt were stopped. Qatar Airways expansion plans with the launch of a number which travellers of all nationalities can apply for followed suit by blocking all its flights to Saudi of new destinations, adding to its network Kiev, tourist and visitor visas with more efficiency and Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain. Ukraine and Prague. Qatar Airways also recently ease. Soon after, on 9 August 2017, Qatar’s Ministry of launched a direct service to Sohar (Oman), In October 2017, QTA and Qatar Airways Interior (MoI), Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Adana (Turkey), Dublin (Republic of Ireland), announced that they will continue offering their Qatar Airways announced that Qatar will allow Nice (France), Skopje (Sarajevo) and Bosnia and stopover package until the end of the year, visa-free entry for citizens of 80 countries with Herzegovina. These initiatives are connecting following the results from phase one. Qatar immediate effect. more people to more places, and making it easier Airways’ transit passengers had the opportunity Citizens of those countries wishing to visit Qatar than ever for passengers to visit Qatar. On October to explore Qatar with a range of stopover options, will no longer need to apply or pay for a visa; 31, 2017 Qatar Airways made history this year as including a complimentary hotel stay and two- instead, a multi-entry waiver will be issued free the first airline to operate an Airbus A350 to the night stay offers from May 1 to December 30 with of charge at the port of entry, upon presentation Maldives. The airline has upgraded its current +Qatar offers. of a valid passport with a minimum validity of six double-daily A330 service to an A350, with the The offer, which is part of a broader +Qatar months and a confirmed onward or return ticket. first A350 having begun its operations on October campaign, encourages all transit passengers to Depending on the nationality of the visitor, the 31 and the second A350 service joining shortly add Qatar to their travel plans and provides transit waiver will either be valid for 180 days from the afterwards on November 3. In addition, Qatar passengers with an opportunity to discover the date of issue and allow the visitor to spend a total Airways has upgraded and increased its service to country. The offer includes complimentary luxury of 90 days in Qatar (multiple-entry waiver), or it Kathmandu (Nepal), Pattaya (Thailand), Penang hotel stays and complimentary transit visas. will be valid for 30 days from the date of issue and (Malaysia), Seychelles, and Eastern Europe and Initially planned to run from May until the end of entitle the visitor to spend up to 30 days in Qatar, the Nodics. the summer, the offer continued till December 31. with the possibility of applying for an extension Qatar Airways, one of the fastest-growing QTA launched +Qatar, an initiative to promote of the waiver for an additional 30 days (multiple- airlines in the history of aviation, will continue the country as a stopover destination, with Qatar entry waiver). These developments come as part to expand its global network in 2018 by adding Airways in May 2017. These measures, along with

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intensified international marketing, resulted in a arrival at Hamad International Airport. destinations across six continents. 39% increase in the number of stopover visitors In November 2017, Qatar introduced a The award-winning airline has received a during the first six months of 2017, compared complimentary transit visa, which allows number of accolades this year including ‘Airline with the same period in 2016. During the initial passengers of all nationalities transiting in Qatar of the Year’ by the prestigious 2017 Skytrax World period, the country welcomed 34% more transit a minimum of five hours' stay in Qatar for up to Airline Awards, which was held at the Paris Air passengers compared to the same period in 2016. four days. Show. This is the fourth time that Qatar Airways The offer will now be extended to passengers November also marked Qatar Airways’ has been given this global recognition as the booking their travel through tour operators, agreement to purchase Cathay Pacific world’s best airline. In addition to being voted allowing more people to benefit from the offer of Airways Limited’s shares, which were worth ‘World’s Best Airline’ by travellers from around a complimentary overnight stay in a luxury hotel approximately 9.61% of the total issued share the world, Qatar’s national carrier also won a or a two-night stay for the discounted price of capital. series of other major awards at the ceremony, $100. In addition to hotel accommodation, QTA Now in its 20th year of operations, Qatar including ‘Best Airline in the Middle East,’ ‘World’s and Qatar Airways are offering a complimentary Airways has a modern fleet of more than 200 Best Business Class’ and ‘World’s Best First Class stopover city tour, which can be booked on aircraft, which fly to business and leisure Airline Lounge’

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CREATING A NEW BUSINESS ORDER THE YEAR 2017 SAW MANATEQ SIGN BACK-TO-BACK DEALS FOR ITS RAS BUFONTAS SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE.

deal with Ismail Bin Ali Group for more diverse economy. Our economic zones play building labour accommodation a crucial role in transforming Qatar into a global which will house more than 8,700 industrial and logistics hub, and the initiatives we workers was followed by a signing have in place offer huge incentives to local and A ceremony for the development of foreign investors.” two hotels and three hotel apartment complexes. One of the steps taken by Manateq was to offer It was seen as another milestone in Manateq’s 100% ownership in the Special Economic Zones drive to secure private sector investment in Qatar. (SEZs) in an effort to attract more foreign direct So, how are these private sector investment investment (FDI). On whether there have been initiatives going to benefit Qatar in the years to further developments regarding FDI in the SEZs, come? Al Kaabi says that the implementation of 100% “Both deals were landmark agreements as they ownership in the SEZs came about because of emphasize the strong bond between the public Manateq being aware of the complexities faced and private sectors in the development of Qatar,” by foreign entities in trying to set up business in says Fahad Al Kaabi, CEO, Manateq. “OUR ECONOMIC ZONES PLAY A CRUCIAL Qatar. ROLE IN TRANSFORMING QATAR INTO “Going forward, initiatives such as these A GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL AND LOGISTICS He further says: “In addition to the 100% demonstrate the opportunities available to other HUB, AND THE INITIATIVES WE HAVE IN ownership, we also provide investors with a private sector organisations to make a major PLACE OFFER HUGE INCENTIVES TO dedicated personal point of contact to facilitate LOCAL AND FOREIGN INVESTORS.” contribution to the economy as the country registration and licensing, which allows them to continues to drive towards Qatar Vision 2030 as a FAHAD AL KAABI focus on getting down to business. This unique, CEO, MANATEQ

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dedicated approach makes investing much plant in Ras Bufontas, which Al Kaabi describes Zukhrof Trading and Contracting was part easier and more attractive to FDI.” as a major milestone. The move is expected to of the deal that Manateq recently signed for Among Manateq’s SEZs, Ras Bufontas is play a significant role in the development of Ras the development of two hotels and three hotel scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of Bufontas’ infrastructure sector. “The opening of apartment complexes in its Ras Bufontas SEZ. 2018, while Um Alhoul phase 1 is set to open in the SMEET Ready Mix plant demonstrates our Jaafar Ali Jaafar Al Sarraf, board member of the second quarter of 2018. Al Kaabi confirms that vision to attract private sector entities. SMEET Zukhrof Trading and Contracting, had said that the work is going according to plan. “Manateq Ready Mix has earned the reputation as a trusted “increased development in the country’s 4-star is committed to securing private investment source for its quality product throughout the hotel segment will help sustain Qatar’s hospitality in Qatar; we’ve already had great success in region and will be a key player in the development sector because it caters to both the business this area, and Ras Bufontas, Um Alhoul and Al of Ras Bufontas’ infrastructure as we develop an sector and leisure tourism.” Does Manateq Karaana SEZs will strengthen our ability to appeal efficient, sustainable business hub.” share Al Sarraf’s views on 4-star hotels? What are to foreign investors across a host of different Manateq has been in the news mainly for the Manateq’s plans regarding 4-star hotels? sectors.” The location of the Al Karaana Economic Ras Bufontas SEZ, but what about the Um Alhoul “We strive to create a world-class business Zone is very strategic because it’s on the border SEZ, which has a waterfront like Ras Bufontas? environment,” says Al Kaabi. “The agreement of Saudi Arabia. Once complete it will add to What are the common features it shares with the to develop the hotel and hotel apartment Manateq’s portfolio of specialized zones catering other two economic zones (Ras Bufontas and Al complexes in Ras Bufontas will bring private to foreign companies looking to start operations Karaana), and how is it different from them? sector investment worth QR338.5 million. It is in Qatar and local investors looking to expand “Work is pressing ahead in the Um Alhoul SEZ. a clear indication of the commitment of our operations across the country. It has similar features to our other SEZs in terms team to meet our mandate to establish a wider “The strategic location of Al Karaana will serve of 100% ownership and the various benefits of a range of business sectors for the growth of the as an overland gateway to investors for moving personal point of contact to help with registration economy, and provide world-class services and goods across the country with ease, and the and licensing,” says Al Kaabi. “The location of Um infrastructure for investors across ambitious blockade will not affect the zone’s development. Alhoul gives us the advantage of diversifying and projects. Furthermore, going forward, with With access to over 100 million customers, Al further appealing to various sectors. Um Alhoul changing market dynamics and consumer trends, Karaana will provide all the required infrastructure SEZ is perfect for those specialising in marine it is becoming increasingly important to be able for successfully servicing the global markets.” industries, the automotive sector, building to offer accommodation that covers the full Recently, SMEET Ready Mix opened its new materials, and food processing.” spectrum of customer preferences.”

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HIA: PRIDE OF QATAR HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (HIA) HAS MADE ASTOUNDING ACHIEVEMENTS THUS FAR, AND HAS AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE.

ince its opening in 2014 till the of the airport. The SC aims at inspiring local youth earned by airport leaders who have proven their end of 2017, HIA has welcomed participation by choosing a group of students ability in providing leadership to the region and 120 million passengers, a solid from local high schools and universities to be guidance on policy development, management achievement for such a young involved in the preparation of the 2022 FIFA World and finances. S airport. HIA, also being the third- Cup in Qatar. The tour aimed at showcasing largest international air cargo operator in the the airport’s facilities and services to allow the AN AIRPORT FOR ART LOVERS world (based on IATA’S FTK ranking), handled 1.9 country to welcome football fans visiting Qatar HIA is the gateway to the arts and culture and million tonnes of cargo with a 14.52% increase in from around the world to attend this important supports the direction given by Her Excellency total cargo handling in 2017. event. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani: “Culture and art support the realisation AMONG THE WORLDS’S MOST PUNCTUAL HOSTED ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT of our National Vision”. Art aims at inspiring AIRPORTS AVIATION EVENTS IN THE REGION millions of visitors and residents flying through Having been recognised for its punctuality, HIA HIA successfully hosted the 12th ACI Asia-Pacific the airport and proves that it can be enjoyed ranked second among the most punctual major Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition, far beyond the confines of a gallery. In 2017, HIA airports, scoring an 85.41% on-time performance hence positioning the nation on the map of partnered with Qatar Museums to launch a series (OTP) as demonstrated in aviation analysts OAG’s global aviation and transport event hubs. The of exclusive guided tours of iconic artworks by 2017 Punctuality Report released in 2017. event, held under the patronage of HE the local and international artists displayed at the Minister of Transport and Communications, airport, in line with the nation’s efforts to build a BOOSTING SPORTS AND CULTURE IN QATAR Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, welcomed 400 strong tourism and cultural landscape. The tours HIA strengthened its Platinum sponsorship delegates representing 175 organisations from 54 are open to all Qatar Museums Cultural Pass of German football team FC Bayern Munich, countries. HIA’s Chief Operating Officer Engr Badr Members and will continue throughout 2018. asserting Qatar’s role as a global leader in Mohammed Al Meer was unanimously appointed sports. HIA also welcomed a panel of youth in by ACI’s Asia Pacific Executive Committee of the ONE OF THE WORLD’S SAFEST AIRPORTS collaboration with the Supreme Committee for Board as Special Advisor to the ACI Asia-Pacific HIA is recognised as one of the world’s safest Delivery & Legacy (SC) to offer an exclusive tour Regional Board. This prestigious position is airports and puts the safety and security of its

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passengers and airport community at the top of its club composed of 400 members of the global air and Jazeera Airways, Bangladesh’s Regent priorities. The airport has successfully completed transport industry. HIA’s agreement with SITA Airways and US Bangla, and IndiGo, India’s largest three emergency exercises, 'Charlie Oryx, Delta provides a framework to try to enhance innovative and fastest-growing low-cost carrier. Oryx and Echo Oryx’, in compliance with the passenger processing solutions. According to the requirements established by the International plan, passengers would be required to register ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The full-scale their faces at the first touch point in the airport. The year 2017 was marked by a key environmental emergency exercises are conducted every two From then onwards, passengers would only milestone for the airport. HIA was rewarded for its years to test the activation and functionality of need to show their faces at check-in and self- environmental protection strategy as it reached HIA’s emergency facilities in extreme conditions. baggage areas. SITA will also be supplying HIA Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ status in the Airports Council Qatar’s airport demonstrated its emergency with its next-generation common-use check-in International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation preparedness in coordination with more than 28 kiosks with bag tag printing capability. This will programme. HIA is strongly committed to government agencies, partners and stakeholders enhance passenger experience for self-service minimising consumption of natural resources, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry check-in and enable progressive deployment of controlling emissions and managing waste of Defence, the Ministry of Public Health, Qatar self-service bag-drop facilities. carefully. Achieving Level 3 in the ACI’s Airport Airways Group, Qatar Civil Aviation Authority and While the partnership with SITA focuses Carbon Accreditation programme is recognition Gulf Helicopters Company, among others. on opportunities for transforming the of this commitment. In terms of energy efficiency, passenger experience, the cooperation with HIA’s latest modifications regarding heating, DELIVERING ON SMART AIRPORT VISION Huawei is primarily aimed at evaluating lighting, ventilation and air-conditioning systems VIA STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS ways of transforming HIA’s technology and across the airport’s campus have been identified The year 2017 also marked the signing of two communications infrastructure. to save an estimated 4,462,600 kWh of energy per major strategic partnerships to expand HIA’s year. With rapid growth and increased passenger Smart Airport Vision: HIA signed a Memorandum A GROWING NETWORK traffic, HIA has improved the average efficiency of Understanding with Huawei, aimed at enabling HIA has welcomed several new airlines which of CO2 per passenger by 4% and per aircraft the airport’s digital transformation, and with started operations in Qatar in 2017 including movement by 1.2% during 2015 compared to global IT provider SITA. HIA is now part of the SITA Oman’s SalamAir, Kuwait’s Al Wataniya Airlines 2014, the year of its opening.

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standards will be embedded in HIA’s expansion plans as well. HIA’s target is to improve carbon efficiency per passenger by 30% by 2030 against a 2015 baseline. Together with Qatar Airways, the airport's aviation and catering services, retail outlets and hotels, HIA will commit to achieving lower and more efficient greenhouse gas emissions to help tackle climate change, reduce, re-use and recycle waste, manage noise and control air and water pollutants to reduce the impact on the local environment wherever they operate, and support conservation and consume energy, water and materials efficiently to help protect natural resources. Under the ‘Smart Airport’ vision, HIA aims at bringing best of breed technology and innovative solutions. The introduction of automated MOMENTOUS AWARDS Ranked second in the Top 10 International processes and self-service at every touch point of HIA has been rewarded by numerous organisations Airports in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best the travel journey will facilitate faster passenger in the fields of travel, leisure, safety, cleanliness, Awards 2017 movement within the terminal, while complying retail experience and technology, among Best Airports: 30 - 40 Million Passengers (1st) with the highest standards for service quality, others, showcasing the airport’s comprehensive The World’s Most Improved Airports (2nd) security and safety. The airport’s main priority is to approach to truly redefine passenger experience. Best Airport Leisure Amenities (3rd) reduce the waiting time at all airport touch points, HIA was the ‘Smart Solution of the Year’ 2017 The World’s Best Airports for Dining (5th) using cutting-edge technology and automation Award winner at the 'QITCOM Qatar IT Business The World’s Best Airport Shopping (5th) which will be facilitated by HIA’s strategic Awards'. It has also received numerous awards World’s Best Airport for Transit Passengers (6th) partnerships with technology experts. by the Skytrax World Airport Awards in 2017, the The World’s Cleanest Airports (10th) Improving the art collection being a key most prestigious accolade for the airport industry, priority for the airport, HIA is currently preparing voted by customers in the largest annual global HIA is currently a candidate for the '2018 Best the launch of 'Small Lie', a new art piece by New airport customer satisfaction survey. Airport in the World' award by Skytrax. York-based artist KAWS, in partnership with Qatar Museums, adding another renowned name to its The full list of 2017 awards speak for itself: ONWARDS AND UPWARDS current collection. Classified as a five-star airport by Skytrax World HIA is currently working on facility expansion, According to the latest figures released by the Airport Awards in 2017, making it one among aimed at increasing the airport's passenger International Air Transport Association (IATA), the only five other airports in the world to achieve capacity from 30 million passengers to its target of Middle East’s aviation market will grow by 5% and this prestigious status more than 50 million per year. As the nation gears will see an extra 258 million passengers a year Ranked Sixth Best Airport in the World, moving up to receive thousands of visitors during the FIFA on routes to, from and within the region by 2035. up four places from 2016 World Cup in 2022, most of them visiting Qatar Qatar is set to enjoy strong growth of 4.7%. The Best Airport in the Middle East by Global for the first time, boosting the airport’s capacity situation is ideal for further growth, pushing HIA Traveler magazine is essential. HIA is working together with Qatar’s to continue investing and innovating to reach its Best Airport in West Asia 2017 by Future Travel SC to process the arrival of approximately 96,000 target of 50 million passengers. Experience - Asia. passengers per day during the World Cup. Ultimately, HIA will continue to honour its Best Airport in the Middle East 2017 Award Improving the airport’s environmental Skytrax '5-star Airport' status by upgrading its winner for the third consecutive year performance and effectively contributing to product-offering and award-winning services to Best Airport Staff in the Middle East 2017 Award addressing climate change will remain at the top maintain its position as a leading aviation hub of winner for the second consecutive year of HIA’s list of priorities, and global environmental the world

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QATAR RAIL: REDUCING DISTANCES, CONNECTING QATAR THE YEAR 2017 WAS CHARACTERISED BY SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES FOR QATAR RAIL WITH MORE THAN 73% OF THE WORK ON THE DOHA METRO AND 69% ON THE LUSAIL TRAM PROJECT HAVING BEEN COMPLETED.

ivil engineering works were all screen doors, an essential safety feature of the Economic Zone in Ras Bu Fontas, close to Hamad completed in 2017, and the system, also underwent endurance testing with International Airport. focus has shifted to mechanical, more than one million cycles performed. The design of the station truly represents the electrical, plant (MEP) and The first four trains were delivered ahead of Doha Metro. Traditional Qatari themes and motifs C architectural fit-out work in schedule on August 19, 2017. This momentous are blended with modern architecture to achieve stations. Progress of MEP works reached 56% occasion is a symbol of Qatar Rail’s resolve and a a look and feel with a uniquely Qatari aesthetic and final MEP testing and commissioning has sign to all of Qatar and the world that this project whilst also being safe, sustainable, functional begun on the Red Line up to Al Qassar. Facade is progressing quickly despite all challenges. A and modern. Passengers travelling through the installation was completed in the elevated further 16 trains have been delivered. Testing of Economic Zone Station will enjoy the very best sections of the Red Line and the internal fit-out trains began on schedule and residents can see in station design – wide internal spaces, natural work is going according to schedule. the trains running on the completed viaducts. lighting, and smooth passenger flows – all of The year also saw the completion of track-laying These achievements and the continued success of which will contribute to a positive experience for activities in the depot, with both Section 1 (Red Qatar Rail are still more notable considering the the customer. Line up to Al Qassar) and all of the elevated parts challenges posed by the blockade. The new fully driverless trains are among the of the Green Line completed. A total of 106 km of fastest in the region, capable of speeds of up to track was laid in 2017. The rails in the depot and DOHA METRO ECONOMIC ZONE STATION 100 km/h, and will deliver a safe, reliable and fast first sections of the mainline were energized, and The state-of-the-art Doha Metro Economic commuter service for passengers. Some of the the first sections of the Red Line are now operating Zone Station is located at the intersection of ultra-modern features of the trains include digital for testing and commissioning. Endurance testing F-Ring Road and Al Wakra Road. The completed media and signage, integrated journey planning, of trains covering a distance of 25,000 km was station will be able to accommodate up to self-service machines ticketing, intelligent air- completed as was medium voltage cabling for the 15,000 passengers per hour and will serve as the conditioning and full Wi-Fi coverage across the first section of the mainline and depot. Platform focal point and main transport hub for the Qatar entire network.

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SAFETY RECORD the RoSPA Silver award and Major Stations won highest international standards. The total labour used for the Qatar Rail project the RoSPA Guardian Angel Safety Award. Qatar in 2017 exceeded 73,000, with an increase of Rail and its partners will continue efforts to MANY PROJECTS, ONE TEAM 23,000 workers compared to the year before, and improve this performance through unwavering These many achievements are the result of the the total number of man-hours exceeded 432 commitment to training as well as education of effort and commitment of Qatar Rail’s world- million. With such a huge workforce, safety is and the workforce and its proper supervision. class team of staff, consultants, contractors and must be at the very heart of everything Qatar Rail suppliers. This team is proud to be a part of does. Strong leadership, commitment to safety INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION these leading international projects. They are and rigorous safety systems have created a true Further international recognition came in 2017 fully committed to the successful completion and culture of safety. The Doha Metro and Lusail when the International Tunneling Association delivery of the project on time. These efforts have Tram projects have achieved truly world-leading (ITA) named the Doha Metro “Major Project of resulted in Qatar Rail’s best performance to date. safety records. Accident frequency rates (AFR) the Year” in the category of projects exceeding Delivery teams are now fully integrated through are amongst the lowest ever achieved on such a EUR 500 million. The project won the award after the implementation of joint control rooms at megaproject. Qatar Rail started the year with an being shortlisted alongside other prestigious each of the major sites led by Qatar Rail. Qatar already low AFR of 0.036. Through the incredible megaprojects including the Confederation Rail has also trialed key systems and processes efforts of all involved, this figure has been reduced LRT (Canada), Delhi Metro Line 3 and Tehran at three pilot stations and shared their findings further to just 0.026. Qatar Rail’s safety record Metro Line 6. These awards are recognised across the network so that these lessons do has been recognised internationally and several as the highest in the world for tunneling and not have to be continuously relearnt. Through of Qatar Rail’s projects have received awards for underground projects and are given only after these efforts the overall rate of progress for the their safety performance. The Lusail Tram project consideration by an esteemed jury including project has doubled since the beginning of 2017. won the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents some of the foremost experts in those fields. This Progress on key systems increased even more (RoSPA) Gold Award for the second year in a award shows the true magnitude of Qatar Rail’s significantly, e.g., by 200% for telecoms and by row, the Doha Metro Gold and Green Lines won achievements and its dedication to delivery at the 500% for signaling.

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with its supply chain and all parties involved a negative impact. Instead they have spurred Qatar Rail recently held its annual town hall to overcome the immediate impacts and then greater efforts and resulted in increased self- meeting. In the past these meetings have identify and avoid risks before they could have a sufficiency and resilience – as evidenced by been for employees only. To recognize the detrimental effect. Qatar Rail’s achievements in 2017 and especially importance of our other partners, contractors Qatar Rail supported its supply chain by in the seven months since the blockade began. and consultants were also invited to attend and agreeing to simplified procedures for customs This was achieved with the support of Qatar to address the town hall for the first time. The clearance for shipments. Deliveries are being Rail’s highly capable project partners, including meeting showcased Qatar Rail’s remarkable expedited and red tape reduced for the increased leading international and local contractors and achievements in 2017, including the project’s amount of sea freight arriving in Doha. Qatar Rail consultants. progress and the challenges which had been secured shipping capacity on these key routes overcome. by entering into direct charters. Approximately COMMITMENT TO LOCAL INDUSTRY Eng Abdulla Al Subaie, Managing Director and 82,000 tons of building components were Qatar Rail is fully committed to the Qatar National Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Rail, recognised delivered to Qatar between June 5 and November Vision 2030, and the state’s efforts and initiatives the professional excellence and invaluable 30, 2017. The project also saw increased use of to encourage the local private sector. Eighty- contributions made by the team by giving awards airfreight for critical deliveries, and this was four percent of all subcontracts awarded to date to 50 employees. The recipients were selected essential for the success of the pilot stations. have been given to Qatari companies, and local for their exceptional commitment to Qatar Rail’s In addition, a number of manufacturing and companies are represented in nearly all of Qatar mission and values. assembly activities were moved to Qatar. Rail’s top-level joint ventures. Examples of goods These included the fabrication of glass fiber and services supplied by local companies include SUCCESSFULLY MITIGATING THE IMPACT OF ceiling panels, assembly of control panels and 11 million cubic metres of excavation, 3.6 million THE BLOCKADE manufacturing of structural steel, among others. cubic metres of concrete, 600,000 m of ductwork, Qatar Rail reacted very quickly and decisively to This has reduced pressure on the port, eliminated 13,000 km of cables, and 8,000 pieces of low- the blockade. The impact and risks caused by shipping risks, and also had the added benefit of voltage switchgear. the embargo were identified and the leadership developing the local industry. Qatar Rail will continue to support and provide moved rapidly to overcome these challenges. A Prompt and far-sighted action by Qatar Rail opportunities for local businesses and look for taskforce was established to deal with blockade- means that the impact of the blockade was new ways to increase participation not just in related issues and Qatar Rail worked closely absorbed. These challenges could have had construction but also in operations

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QATAR DESERVES THE BEST CONSTANT REVIEWS COUPLED WITH FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS SAW PUBLIC WORKS AUTHORITY ASHGHAL COMPLETE 99% OF ITS WORKS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2017, WHICH INCLUDED 16 FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS IN HIGHWAY PROJECTS, SIX IN INFRASTRUCTURE, AND WORK CARRIED OUT ON DRAINAGE NETWORKS.

ne notable change that developing Qatari staff through relevant trainings took place in Ashghal was and workshops during the first half of 2017. The the appointment of its new departments completed designs and plans to president. decrease water pools resulting from rain, and O The Emir HH Sheikh Tamim delivered 500 residential land lots during the first bin Hamad Al Thani had appointed Dr Saad bin quarter of the year. Ahmed bin Ibrahim Al Mohannadi as President In the highway sector, the 22 km-long and Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah as Assistant G-Ring Road was opened, along with the Lusail President of Ashghal in early 2017. Expressway and Dukhan Highway Central. In While deciding to rely on its own resources addition, a 37 km stretch of the Orbital Highway, instead of outsourcing, as it has the means to the first phase of Al Rayyan Road, the Onazia effectively and efficiently deliver and maintain Tunnel on Lusail Expressway, and the road projects, Ashghal has planned six strategic connecting Mesaieed to Salwa Road were opened goals: Qatarisation, execution of all projects to traffic. according to schedule, decreasing the costs of As for street projects and area infrastructure, projects, responsiveness, development of service Ashghal has been working on 23 projects related standards, coming up with solutions to address “WE HAVE ADOPTED BEST PRACTICES to local streets and infrastructure and completed the negative effects of rain, and implementing the IN THE FIELD OF DEVELOPMENT, four of them at Thumaid, Rawdat Ekdeem, Rawdat IMPLEMENTATION AND MANAGEMENT infrastructure of the residential lands of citizens OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND USED A Rashed Umm Qarn and Muaither (drainage according to schedules. STRONG STRATEGIC MODEL FOR networks). Through these projects, the Authority OUTSOURCING AND PARTNERING In order to achieve these goals and assess WITH LEADING GLOBAL PROJECT saved up to QR208 million out of QR350 million its accomplishments, all departments in the MANAGEMENT INSTITUTIONS TO ENSURE during the first quarter of 2017. Authority expedited matters since the beginning of THAT QATAR IS AMONG THE MOST With regard to sewage projects, Ashghal DEVELOPED COUNTRIES IN THE FIELD 2017 and measured the achievements according OF INFRASTRUCTURE.” completed the work of the surface and to the major performance indices, in addition to groundwater sewage tunnel in the area of Abu setting up executive plans for the remaining goals. DR SAAD BIN AHMED BIN Hamour, in addition to the development of IBRAHIM AL MOHANNADI With regard to Qatarisation, the Authority PRESIDENT, ASHGHAL the small water treatment plant in Al Shamal managed to achieve the target ratio in addition to (PUBLIC WORKS AUTHORITY) and Al Dhakhira. Projects worth QR25 million

94 PROGRESS 2017-2018 INFRASTRUCTURE were worked upon during Q1 2017, and several initiatives to reduce costs during Q3 were further assessed and evaluated. Further, the work of sewage treatment in North Doha is under way, and so is the designing and construction of a number of water treatment projects in different parts of the country. Ashghal has re-paved all roads set out in the plan for the first six months of 2017 and has been attending to all the comments and reports received from the public, in addition to the continued installation of road lights, marks and signs to ensure road safety. Ashghal has also carried out pre-emptive maintenance of some roads, along with the completion of 30% of the work of cleaning and maintenance of sewage networks and drainage pipes (110 km length of sewage networks and more than 100,000 drainage holes), according to the timetables set for these works. As for the most important and latest construction projects established by the Authority, eight projects were completed by the second He told the daily that contractors were of infrastructure and used a strong strategic quarter of the year, according to the timetable. executing some of the major infrastructural model for outsourcing and partnering with With regard to building designs, 18 projects were development works and have assured the leading global project management institutions completed, which included five health centres in authorities that they have adequate stocks of to ensure that Qatar is among the most developed different areas, schools, and the reconstruction construction materials in their warehouses to countries in the field of infrastructure,” added Al of the Umm Salal Municipality building. Some 33 carry out their activities for about a year. Mohannadi. new construction sites are being designed. During “The materials that used to reach the country the first half of 2017, six projects, including three by road earlier are now being brought by ships PM REVIEWS PROJECTS schools and 14 mosques and imam homes, were and that too in large quantities,” he said, while At a review meeting chaired by HE the Prime delivered following the cost reduction model in adding that some of the major contractors Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin projects related to educational buildings. have informed that more materials for further Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani a couple of months The Authority is currently focusing on the construction would be sourced from countries ago, projects like the Al Bustan Corridor and the completion of nine schools, eight mosques and such as China, India, Oman and Kuwait. bike and pedestrian path network on highways imam homes, as well as four health centres and Ashghal has been implementing a wide range were discussed. surgery buildings in Hamad General Hospital. of infrastructure programmes in all parts of Al Mohannadi said that Ashghal was committed the country, including the Expressway project, to implement all vital projects for hosting the NO IMPACT which comprises some of Qatar’s largest 2022 FIFA World Cup on schedule. “Some 60% of Midway through 2017, the economic blockade highway projects, the Local Areas Infrastructure the works on 117 km of highways and main roads threatened to impact the ongoing works as Programme, which aims at upgrading existing and 153 km of internal roads, which are among Qatar’s only road link to the world, through infrastructure and developing it in areas that lack the requirements for the event, have already been Saudi Arabia, was cut off as part of the sanctions infrastructure, and the drainage projects across completed,” he told the prime minister. by some countries in the region. However, the the country. And other projects such as Barwa Commercial Ashghal president allayed any such fears. The Authority also works with the concerned Avenue (BCA) – the Al Mashaf Road that links “No ongoing or future infrastructure ministries and entities to implement various Al Wakrah, Al Wukair and Al Mashaf with the development works in Qatar are going to be public buildings projects, including health and BCA Signal, Doha and F-Ring Road – were affected by any issues arising out of the economic educational facilities, as well as the Awqaf and also reviewed. There were also discussions and land blockade enforced by some of its Gulf municipalities projects. on upgrading projects, such as converting neighbours,” he told a leading English daily in “We have adopted best practices in the field of roundabouts into traffic intersections with Doha. development, implementation and management signals.

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QATAR OPENS NEW MARITIME GATEWAY DEFYING THE ECONOMIC BLOCKADE IMPOSED BY THE SAUDI ARABIA- LED BLOC IN THE GCC REGION, QATAR HAS FORMALLY INAUGURATED THE NEW PORT PROJECT (HAMAD PORT) AT UMM AL HOUL, LOCATED SOUTH OF DOHA, DURING A COLOURFUL CEREMONY IN SEPTEMBER 2017.

ith Qatar witnessing rapid and vessels of various sizes and weights. The port developments since the start covers a total area of 26.5 sq km and has been of the decade, the existing built at a cost of QR26.94 billion ($7.4 billion). port, which is in the middle of It has a general cargo terminal with a capacity W Doha, has become an obstacle of 1.7 MTPA and a grain plant with a capacity of to these activities and the government decided 1 MTPA, a station for the reception of livestock, to construct a new port to ease pressure on it. a station for coastal security vessels, a customs The port has been in partial operation since inspection area, a 110-metre observation tower, late 2015, when it began catering to vessels a ship inspection platform, multiple marine carrying roll-on/roll-off cargo, livestock and facilities and administrative buildings and a heavy equipment. However, the facility is now number of other facilities such as warehouses, able to accommodate large container ships for mosques, restrooms and a medical facility. the first time. It is scheduled for completion in Equipped with the latest equipment and 2020. machines, the loading and handling of trucks The new port is Qatar’s largest access to the sea is very fast as the container is unloaded and “THE OPENING OF THE PORT WILL NOW and is a gateway to more than 150 destinations BRING FURTHER FOOD SECURITY AND delivered to the importer in only 20 minutes, with around the world that will provide the country ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION IN LINE an average of 30 containers per hour. WITH QATAR NATIONAL VISION 2030, A with complete independence in its import and PROJECT THAT AIMS AT BOOSTING THE export of goods to various continents. The port is COUNTRY’S ECONOMIC DIVERSITY.” CATALYST FOR EXPORTS the newest among the six ports extending along As a major gateway to Qatar and a significant HE JASSIM BIN SAIF AL SULAITI the country’s coasts, the others being Doha, MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND investment in the country’s future, the new Mesaieed, Haloul, Ras Laffan and Ruwais. COMMUNICATIONS port will serve the expanding trade needs of STATE OF QATAR The port is the biggest in the Middle East and Qatar, supporting key objectives set forward in also the largest greenfield seaport in the world the Qatar National Vision 2030 and acting as a and has the capacity to receive all types of ships catalyst for export industry development.

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The new Hamad Port will house a new base for the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, built offshore and providing berthing for Qatar’s Navy and visiting naval vessels from around the world. The base will offer technical support, comprehensive logistics facilities, material support accommodation and recreational services. The Qatar Economic Zone 3, a self-contained development with industrial and residential facilities, will also be located adjacent to the new port. Customs and other entities provide facilitations to importers. The total capacity of the port is about 7.6 million containers, including two million containers per year within the first phase of operation of the port. During the first half of 2017 Qatar ports received up to 470,000 tons of general cargo, around 407,000 tons of livestock, 449,000 tons of building materials self-sufficiency. the blockade was QR6,188 ($1,700) for a 40-foot and more than 400,000 tons of equipment and “The opening of the port will now bring further container, have come down to QR4,732 ($1,300) vehicles. The new routes connect Qatar’s ports to food security and economic diversification in – a reduction of 31% – with the help of operations Sohar and Salalah in Oman, Shuwaikh in Kuwait, line with Qatar National Vision 2030, a project at Hamad Port. Karachi in Pakistan, Izmir in Turkey, and the that aims at boosting the country’s economic Qatar immediately launched new sealines Mundra and Nava Shiva ports in India. diversity,” the minister told the media after the between Hamad Port and various ports in other The officials of Hamad Port have also signed inaugural ceremony. countries like Oman, Turkey and many other a contract for the design and construction of According to the minister, Hamad Port was nations in East Asia to help in Qatari imports from food security facilities at the port on an area of 53 strategically located to handle the expanding around the globe. hectares at a cost of QR1.6 billion. trade in the Gulf and beyond, into the hinterland The port has recorded significant milestones, of Qatar and the neighbouring GCC countries. regionally and internationally, in quite a short GUARANTEEING FOOD SECURITY The facilities will feature cutting-edge technology period of time. It has played a key role in breaking Minister of Transport and Communications HE and associated systems that will cater to all types the blockade by receiving 48,873 containers, Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti said that Hamad Port’s of vessels, cargo handling and clearance, and 80,275 tons of general cargo, 4,922 vehicles and food security warehouses project will provide throughput rates that will set the facility apart machinery, 74,148 head of livestock and some a two-year stock of manufactured and stored from the region’s existing ports. 7,897 tons of building materials last July. The first goods for three million people. Environmental protection strategies – direct service between Hamad Port and Sohar He pointed out that the signed contract is sustainable resource use, waste management Port in Oman was inaugurated on June 11 and related to the first phase of 26 months, while and sustainability certification for buildings – will directly linked with Salalah Port on June 23. the second phase, which is no less important, is ensure the port achieves a sustainable balance In an interview with a local English daily the operational phase through the issuance of between economic growth, social development in Qatar, Neville Bissett, Chief Executive of tenders for the private sector and other phases and environmental protection, he added. QTerminals, the operator of Hamad Port, related to food security. Qatari companies will set disclosed that many main line operators and the up factories in Turkey, Azerbaijan and Pakistan, REDUCTION IN COSTS largest shipping companies in the world have among other countries, which will lead to greater Interestingly, the shipping costs, which before evinced interest in starting direct services to

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short transit time of four days and is served by two 1,700 TEU vessels, dedicated largely to the transportation of perishable items and foodstuffs. A service connecting the Qatari ports of Mesaieed and Hamad with Karachi and the Indian port of Mundra is also expected to become operational in the near future. Milaha also confirmed that an ad hoc service it had been running between Hamad Port and the Port of Izmir in Turkey would be regularised to once every 20-25 days. One vessel with a capacity of more than 5,000 tons now services the 11-day route, which includes temperature-controlled cargo and breakbulk cargo. The opening of new international routes suggest that Milaha is putting this strategy into action, while Hamad Port’s progress towards full operation could also help the company achieve a turnaround over the medium term. Hamad Port, while others have already started or too announced new services between Qatar and In addition, Milaha stands to benefit in the near were expanding their existing routes. various international ports. term from higher earnings across the shipping “The new routes from Hamad Port include One such initiative, the Pakistan Qatar Express industry, a trend that should also support Qatar’s additional services from China, the Far East Service, was launched on August 27, with the broader maritime trade ambitions. and Bangladesh, as well as increasing services first vessel arriving at Hamad Port from Karachi from established routes such as India, Pakistan, on September 11. The route has a relatively STRONG PERFORMANCE Oman, and the Mediterranean,” he said and Hamad Port saw a huge 44% year-on-year added that the sectors that were contributing increase in cargo movement in September 2017, most to volume included machinery, technical while a 120% rise was seen in tonnage in the same and construction material, large electrical goods, month. vehicles and electronic equipment. The port harboured 150 vessels in September compared to 104 vessels in the same month in NEW LINES 2016, while net tonnage at the port rose to 143,750 A week after its formal inauguration, the Swiss- tonnes in September 2017 against 65,470 tonnes based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in September 2016. The year-on-year growth in and Taiwan’s Yang Ming Transport Corporation cargo traffic has continued every month after the both opened new weekly lines to Hamad Port. siege was imposed on June 5 by the blockading Four ships, each with a capacity to countries. accommodate 6,000 containers, including 400 In August, vessel movement increased by 47% reefer containers, have begun operating on MSC’s as 162 vessels harboured at the port compared new East Mediterranean Service, which runs to 110 vessels in the same month in 2016. Net between ports in Turkey, Greece, India, Oman and tonnage at the port has jumped by around 111% Qatar. “THE NEW ROUTES FROM HAMAD PORT to 129,630 tonnes in August last year from 61,520 INCLUDE ADDITIONAL SERVICES FROM Yang Ming, meanwhile, launched its China Gulf CHINA, FAR EAST AND BANGLADESH tonnes in the same month in 2016. Express Service with a single vessel that can also AS WELL AS INCREASING SERVICES Similarly, 136 vessels harboured at the port in carry 6000 containers. The ship’s route takes in FROM ESTABLISHED ROUTES SUCH July last year compared to 105 vessels in the same AS INDIA, PAKISTAN, OMAN, AND THE Shanghai, Ningbo, Xiamen and Shekou ports in MEDITERRANEAN.” month in 2016, showing a year-on-year rise of China, Kaohsiung (Taiwan), Port Klang (Malaysia) around 30%. Net tonnage also surged by 137%, to and Hamad Port. NEVILLE BISSETT 123,100, in July last year from 71,040 tonnes in the CHIEF EXECUTIVE Doha-based maritime logistics player Milaha QTERMINALS same month in 2016

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THE GAMES ARE VERY MUCH ON IN LESS THAN FIVE YEARS QATAR WILL HOST THE PRESTIGIOUS FIFA WORLD CUP IN 2022 AND THE ORGANISERS ARE LEAVING NO STONE UNTURNED TO ENSURE THAT THE EVENT, WHICH IS BEING HELD IN THE MIDDLE EAST FOR THE FIRST TIME, BECOMES ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR EXAMPLES IN THE TOURNAMENT’S HISTORY.

heir determination has more than the Al Thumama Stadium at Doha’s Hamad trebled in the last few months in International Airport (HIA). One of the most talked- the face of the economic blockade about characteristics of the Al Thumama Stadium and travel restrictions imposed structure is its shape, which has been inspired by T by countries, which include the traditional Arab head gear ‘gahfiya’. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, in June last Reflecting on the international design year. The pace of work is such that it won’t be competition which settled the issue in his surprising if Qatar is ready months before the company’s favour, Ibrahim Jaidah, GCEO and commencement of the games. Chief Architect of Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB), The games of the World Cup will be held at told Qatar Today: “We were fortunate enough eight different venues and one of them, the to be called to compete with some of the big remodeled Khalifa International Stadium, was stadium designers from around the world. Like opened in May 2017 drawing praise from experts all the stadiums in Qatar, we had to emulate the for its special cooling technology. cultural identity in a direct or indirect manner.” Work on six stadiums is in various stages of “We wanted to reflect something, but in a “WE WANTED TO REFLECT SOMETHING, progress and all World Cup-related infrastructure BUT IN A MORE LITERAL WAY. I OPTED more literal way. I opted for the gahfiya-inspired projects are being implemented in a time-bound FOR THE ‘GAHFIYA’-INSPIRED DESIGN design since it leans towards fusion rather than SINCE IT LEANS TOWARDS FUSION manner. Two stadiums will be ready by the end RATHER THAN ABSTRACTION. I FELT abstraction. I felt that the gahfiya was a good of 2018 and the remaining ones will be ready by THAT THE GAHFIYA WAS A GOOD CHOICE choice because it covers and protects.” BECAUSE IT COVERS AND PROTECTS.” 2020. Jaidah further said that he did intensive IBRAHIM JAIDAH research, and went to the various souqs in Qatar DESIGN EXCELLENCE GCEO AND CHIEF ARCHITECT where he bought different types of gahfiyas until ARAB ENGINEERING BUREAU In August 2017, the Supreme Committee for he came up with what he thought was the proper Delivery & Legacy (SC) launched its largest- pattern for the um nira gahfiya, used extensively ever stadium scale model when it unveiled in Qatar.

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“Apart from complying with the design hotels and health spas and the hosting of football requirements, we appointed and worked closely clubs. “One of the challenges is to make sure that with international specialists in some aspects the stadium does not become a white elephant at of the project delivery. For example, the turf the conclusion of the quadrennial event.” specialists were necessary as we had to monitor “We have also made provision for some other how much sun is required to make the grass grow sporting facilities. We had planned for all this naturally. One sees more openings in certain parts when we were making the master plan. The of the stadium roof to make sure that the grass legacy is extremely important for us, because at gets proper exposure to the sun throughout the the end of the day it’s about what you are going day and year. We used technicians from Germany to leave for the city, not only in terms of the for the structure, from the UK for landscaping and stadium but also the roads, the metro and the from Spain for sports architecture. So, we put entire infrastructure. We see ourselves as part together a massive team for constructing a state- of the legacy because now a local firm has been of-the-art stadium for Qatar.” involved with the managing and designing of a Jaidah adds that as part of the legacy planning “INNOVATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN state-of-the-art FIFA-compliant stadium. In fact, for the 2022 World Cup, of the 40,000 seats in the CENTRAL TO OUR PLANS FOR we want to take this knowledge beyond Qatar.” DELIVERING A HISTORIC FIFA WORLD Al Thumama Stadium, 20,000 from the upper CUP THAT LEAVES A LEGACY FOR QATAR section of the stadium will be dismantled and AND THE WORLD, AND THERE IS NO INNOVATIVE YET SUSTAINABLE BETTER EXAMPLE OF THIS THAN THE sent to other countries at the conclusion of the DESIGN OF RAS ABU ABOUD STADIUM.” SC also unveiled the design of Ras Abu Aboud World Cup. Stadium, the seventh stadium for the World Continuing on the legacy aspect concerning Al HASSAN AL THAWADI Cup in Qatar, on November 28, 2017. The entire SECRETARY GENERAL Thumama Stadium, Jaidah says that the design SUPREME COMMITTEE FOR DELIVERY & LEGACY stadium is to be constructed using shipping has accommodated the inclusion of boutique containers and can be completely demounted

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and rebuilt elsewhere after the tournament. Speaking to SC officials, she said that in “The World Cup has definitely helped to propel Architecture firms Fenwick Iribarren (FI-A), terms of infrastructure, the projects were really this development and gives us the opportunity Schlaich Bergermann Partner and Hilson Moran unfolding as planned and there should be no to discuss sensitive issues. We should continue devised a modular structure using building reason to doubt that it would be a fantastic to encourage football to be played in countries blocks that can easily be taken apart when event. She exuded confidence that the situation where there are issues, because this is the only required. Recyclable materials will be used to would be resolved before the start of the World way to also contribute to the well-being of these boost sustainability, with even the shipping Cup. countries,” she added. containers used to transport the materials She said: “FIFA has been working with Qatar becoming part of the stadium. on issues like the working conditions of migrant LEGACY PROGRAMMES The demountable nature of the structure workers and the progress that has already been Besides construction activities, SC launched means it will either be rebuilt in its entirety made has been spectacular.” legacy programmes such as Generation Amazing, elsewhere – in Qatar or another country – or the Josoor Institute, Challenge 22 and Workers’ separated into different sections that will Welfare. be redistributed to create smaller facilities. The Supreme Committee also organised a vast Everything, from the roof to rows of seating, can range of special events, including the Brazil 2014 be recycled in this way, and the architects have Fan Zone at Katara, the annual Workers’ Cup and said the venue could even re-appear at a future numerous community engagement initiatives World Cup. such as the Youth Panel and Accessibility Forum. Elated over the design, SC Secretary General, “We are working to deliver the promises Hassan Al Thawadi, said: “Innovation has always we made in 2010 every day and we remain been central to our plans for delivering a historic determined to host the greatest World Cup of all FIFA World Cup that leaves a legacy for Qatar and time,” said Hassan Al Thawadi. the world, and there is no better example of this He continued: “We know the next five years will than the design of Ras Abu Aboud Stadium.” be just as challenging – if not more challenging He said that the stadium would offer the – than the previous seven. However, we are perfect legacy, capable of being reassembled in a prepared to go the extra mile. For Qatar – and new location in its entirety or built into numerous all of us at SC – this is about much more than “THE WORLD CUP...GIVES US THE small sports and cultural venues. “All of this in a OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS SENSITIVE football. We want this tournament to break down stadium that delivers the atmosphere fans expect ISSUES. WE SHOULD CONTINUE TO stereotypes, narrow the world’s cultural divides ENCOURAGE FOOTBALL TO BE PLAYED and we will build in a more sustainable way than IN COUNTRIES WHERE THERE ARE and bridge the gap between East and West. ever before. I am confident that Ras Abu Aboud ISSUES BECAUSE THIS IS THE ONLY WAY We have come a long way and achieved so TO ALSO CONTRIBUTE TO THE WELL- will become a blueprint for future mega-event BEING OF THESE COUNTRIES.” much in the last seven years. Time and again we planners to follow.” have delivered when it matters. Football has the FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samba GENERAL FATMA SAMBA DIOUF power to unite and inspire like no other sport.” Diouf Samoura, who visited Qatar in October, SAMOURA He also said: “We want our World Cup to be a FIFA SECRETARY expressed satisfaction at the progress made in catalyst for Qatar and for the region to realise its the construction of stadiums for the World Cup. full potential.”

101 PROGRESS 2017-2018 INFRASTRUCTURE PREMIUM SEATING COASTAL QATAR’S CEO NISHAD AZEEM TALKS ABOUT THE ‘MADE IN QATAR’ SEATS, WHICH WILL BE USED IN SOME OF THE MAJOR STADIUMS OF THE 2022 FIFA WORLD CUP IN QATAR.

atar-based construction It was a complicated job because of the shape galvanized in our galvanizing plant. In effect, we company Coastal Qatar was and curves of the stadium, but we were able to have total control of the manufacturing value awarded the contract to complete it ahead of schedule.” chain.” manufacture spectator seats for The manufacturing work for the stadium seats Azeem points out the benefits that the company Q three of the World Cup stadiums is being carried out in Coastal Qatar’s advanced received as a result of being in Qatar, and says by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy manufacturing facility in the New Industrial Area that they also tried their best as far as possible to (SC) in 2017. The move was a clear indication of and one of the talking points are the machines, use materials from the region. “We have support efforts to promote local companies, keeping in which are by and large automated. “Our goal is from the SC and Qatar Development Bank. In mind the legacy aspect associated with the 2022 to be one of the best manufacturing facilities in addition to that, our aluminium requirements are FIFA World Cup. The 140,000 seats, which will the world. We bought the best possible machines taken care of within Qatar, thanks to Qatalum, have ‘Made in Qatar’, etched on their backs, will from Austria and maximised the use of robots. and the raw material for polypropylene and our be made for the Al Rayyan, Al Wakrah and Al Bayt Extraction of the seats from the mould and need for steel are met by the other GCC countries. stadiums. insertion of the counterweights are done by So overall, the product is a regional one.” “At Coastal Qatar we have always strived to robots. Human intervention is minimal, so safety, Azeem further says that one of the objectives contribute to the economy and Qatar’s 2030 quality and production-related risks are also of the World Cup is to promote the Qatari as well Vision,” says the company’s CEO Nishad Azeem. minimised. The steel brackets are fabricated at as the regional economy in a sustainable manner. “And we presently have many ventures and our steel fabrication facility using welding robots “We are reducing our carbon footprint by not business units that are actually doing that, so this to ensure quality and high productivity and transporting the materials back and forth over kind of manufacturing is not new to us.” long distances. We are different from other typical Azeem adds that the unique aspect about scenarios where the manufacturers would buy the their World Cup project was the coming together raw materials from one of the GCC countries, ship of the different divisions of the company for them to Europe and then ship the end-product the production of the seats. “We were able to back here after manufacturing. On the contrary, make use of the synergies between our cross- we are sourcing all the materials from within the disciplinary units – trading, steel fabrication, region. All our products – plastic, aluminium and galvanising and construction. Injection moulding steel – are 100% recyclable.” was not a major challenge for us because we knew However, the story might be quite different for about the different intricacies, requirements and Coastal Qatar now with three of the GCC countries processes to manage the technology.” – Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain – having cut And as far as the World Cup is concerned, off connections with Qatar since mid-2017. Coastal Qatar is not just restricted to the Azeem signs off by stressing the importance of manufacture and installation of seats for the technology transfer, and cites that as the reason stadiums. Their steel division is involved with for Coastal Qatar's partnership with Forum, a the structural works of the Khalifa International seat-manufacturing company from Poland. “We “WE WERE ABLE TO MAKE USE OF THE Stadium. “We are involved with the refurbishment SYNERGIES BETWEEN OUR CROSS- could have made our own seats, but one needs work of the stadium as its seating capacity DISCIPLINARY UNITS – TRADING, STEEL to be an expert in that area and expertise doesn’t is being increased, and have the contract for FABRICATION, GALVANISING AND come overnight. It comes from experience and CONSTRUCTION.” carrying out the secondary steel works,” says has to be developed over many years. It is very Azeem. “Whatever steel you see on the exterior NISHAD AZEEM important that whatever we make in Qatar is on of the stadium is fabricated and installed by us. CEO a par with international standards.” COASTAL QATAR

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MOHAMMED BIN ABDULLAH AL RUMAIHI HE MINISTER OF MUNICIPALITY AND ENVIRONMENT PROGRESS 2017-2018 ENVIRONMENT

SUSTAINING SUSTAINABILITY DESPITE SOME TOUGH TIMES BECAUSE OF STRAINED RELATIONS WITH ITS NEIGHBOURS, THERE WAS NO LET-UP IN EFFORTS TO MAKE QATAR MORE ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY, WITH INITIATIVES RELATED TO SOLAR ENERGY CALLING THE SHOTS.

he year 2017 witnessed a variety buildings. We’re thankful for the backing of our of activities which just reiterated supporting partners and look forward to even Qatar being a force to reckon with greater success next year,” he added. as far as promoting sustainability Qatar Airways (QA) was one of the participants T is concerned. in the three-day event, which took place from October 29-31, 2017. QA’s carbon management QATAR SUSTAINABILITY WEEK measures at Hamad International Airport have In a major boost for Qatar Green Building Council been one of the highlights of the country’s (QGBC), the second annual Qatar Sustainability sustainability activities. Week (QSW) 2017 witnessed a record number of QA measures the carbon emissions associated participants – a 100% increase from the previous with all business operations within, to and from year. The event is designed to actively engage Doha, as well as selected destination airports. Qatar’s public and private sector organisations in Aviation fuel is its biggest source of carbon a wide range of sustainability-oriented activities. “SHOWING KEENNESS ON THE SECURITY emissions, representing up to 97% of total Eng. Meshal Al Shamari, Director, QGBC, said: AND PROSPERITY OF HOMELANDS emissions during 2016-17. WHICH BECAME THREATENED BY THE “We’re blown away with the success of this RISKS OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS, Qatar Airways’ fuel-saving initiatives initiative. The active participation from over 100 THE STATE OF QATAR, UNDER THE supported a 1.4% efficiency improvement in WISE LEADERSHIP OF THE EMIR HH partners in both the private and public sectors SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI, 2016-17 compared to 2015-16. The initiatives exceeded our expectations. QSW 2017 welcomed ATTACHES GREAT IMPORTANCE TO include investing in one of the most modern, INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR THE more than 20,000 participants and visitors to PRESERVATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT fuel-efficient fleets in the sky; investing in efficient over 200 events across three cities in Qatar.” AND THE PRINCIPLE OF COMMON BUT technology, including winglets (fin-like surface “This initiative plays a crucial role in raising DIFFERENTIATED RESPONSIBILITIES.” enhancements reducing aerodynamic drag); awareness among the wider community, while carefully planning the fuel required for each MOHAMMED BIN ABDULLAH showcasing the incredible milestones Qatar has AL RUMAIHI flight, thus minimising the weight of unnecessary reached in the areas of sustainability and green HE MINISTER OF MUNICIPALITY AND fuel; reducing weight, e.g., extra potable water ENVIRONMENT

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and surplus magazines reduce the fuel required same for agriculture but the high cost is the real impair the energy efficiency of installations,” Dr to carry unnecessary weight; using reduced challenge. However, if the idea is worked out Marwan told BusinessGreen. engines to taxi on arrival at Doha; and using commercially, it will reflect positively on food “We need to develop solutions so we can pre-conditioned air and fixed electrical power production in the country.” facilitate the deployment of PV in the region on instead of energy-intensive, on-board engines The Qatar government will also soon start a wider scale.” while waiting for departure. constructing the nation’s largest Photovoltaics “QEERI soon plans to launch an international (PV) farm, which will start operating in 2020 with solar test consortium, bringing in governments GOING SOLAR a capacity of 200 MW. and businesses from around the world to further In August 2017, Qatar General Electricity and According to Dr Marwan Khraisheh, Acting the development of desert solar programmes; it Water Corporation (Kahramaa) president Essa Executive Director of Qatar Environment and has also struck partnerships with Switzerland’s bin Hilal Al Kuwari revealed that the country has Energy Research Institute (QEERI), just one École Polytechnique FédÈrale de Lausanne an ambitious plan to transform all houses in square kilometre of land in Qatar’s desert area (EPFL) and Germany’s Fraunhofer Center for the country into production hubs of renewable receives solar energy equivalent to 1.5 million Silicon Photovoltaics,” added Dr Marwan. energy. barrels of oil. In March 2017, Qatar Solar Technologies “There is also a project to produce around 500 “Yet that potential for solar energy remains (QSTec) – a joint venture between Qatar Solar MW of electricity through solar power,” said Al untapped largely due to two significant obstacles (a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation), Germany’s Kuwari. – dusty conditions coupled with the baking desert SolarWorld AG and Qatar Development Bank – “Kahramaa is currently working on using solar heat – which can reach up to 75ºC underneath announced that the first polysilicon had been power to desalinate groundwater for using the solar panels in summer, and that can severely produced at its new production plant in Ras

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Laffan Industrial City. Polysilicon is a pure form of DEAP includes residents from more than 20 of the Wildlife Protection Department, the silicon and a key component in a range of solar different countries bound by the common goal of violations on land include a grazing ban as per photovoltaic (PV) technologies. caring for the local environment. The group has the decision of the Minister of Municipality and The factory, which is currently in the final been performing weekly beach restoration work Environment Law No. 277 of 2017, throwing stages of being commissioned, will have an throughout Qatar and is trying to raise awareness waste in undesignated places, dredging soil, annual production capacity of 8,000 tons. Khalid against littering. So far over 35 clean-ups have releasing drainage and other types of water in an Klefeekh Al Hajri, chairman and CEO of QSTec, been carried out, and around 3,000 bags of trash open area, unsafe transportation of diesel and told Oxford Business Group (OBG) that the plant’s and recyclables collected in seven months. petrol, using bird-calling whistles and causing polysilicon would initially be for export to meet In other news, the Ministry of Municipality disruption in green spaces, among others. global demand for Tier 1 polysilicon. and Environment, represented by the Wildlife “The sea violations include overfishing, The plant has also been designed with Protection Department, recorded 480 violations possessing banned fishing nets, destroying coral sustainability in mind, possessing 1.1 MW of of the environment in 2017. reefs and the natural habitat for fish breeding, solar generation capacity and waste treatment According to Umar Salem Al Nuaimi, Director and digging beach sand with heavy machines,” facilities to recycle excess gases and water. added Al Naumi. “I am very positive about the growth potential In another initiative, Qatar University College of solar energy and research in Qatar and across of Engineering (QU-CENG) and the Ministry of the MENA region. We have the perfect climatic Municipality and Environment (MME) joined conditions, and the government has shown the hands for the exchange of information and will to diversify its energy mix,” Al Hajri told OBG. consultancy on the recent techniques to capture In further news regarding Qatar’s solar power the organic gas released from waste and recycle ambitions, Qatar Electricity and Water Company’s it into an organic fuel for dual-fuel vehicles. General Manager and Managing Director Fahad The event was attended by QU-CENG Dean Hamad Al Mohannadi said that land has been Dr Khalifa Al Khalifa, MME Public Parks Director allocated for a 500 MW to 1,000 MW solar power Mohammed Al Khouri and MME Consultant project in Al Kharsaah, about 80 km west of Doha. Jamal Shraideh, among others. “The project cost will be nearly $500 million in “This event comes in support of the MoU the first phase when 500 MW is generated by mid- signed with MME to respond to environmental 2020,” said Al Mohannadi. challenges, and push further investment in “Investor companies will soon be named with research in collaboration with partners and global firms taking part as well to support the “THE ACTIVE PARTICIPATION FROM OVER stakeholders,” said Dr Khalifa. 100 PARTNERS IN BOTH THE PRIVATE diversification of Qatar’s economy,” he added. AND PUBLIC SECTORS EXCEEDED OUR “This collaboration supports QU-CENG’s EXPECTATIONS. QSW 2017 WELCOMED position as a leading partner in research to MORE THAN 20,000 PARTICIPANTS AND OTHER SUSTAINABILITY MEASURES VISITORS TO OVER 200 EVENTS ACROSS improve practices in coordination with local At the end of last year, an anti-litter media THREE CITIES IN QATAR.” and international institutions and to promote campaign was started by Doha Environmental efforts that provide efficient solutions in order to ENG. MESHAL AL SHAMARI Actions Project (DEAP) in collaboration with DIRECTOR overcome the numerous challenges in the area of photographer Nabil Darwish. QGBC waste management,” he added

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WASTE MANAGEMENT: FROM CONSTRUCTION TO CONSTRUCTIVE THE AGREEMENT THAT QATAR PRIMARY MATERIALS COMPANY (QPMC) AND TRANSPORT RESEARCH LABORATORY (TRL) HAD SIGNED IN 2016 IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE 30,000 TONNES OF RECYCLED AGGREGATE IN 3-5 YEARS TIME, ACCORDING TO DR KHALED HASSAN, COUNTRY DIRECTOR - QATAR, TRL.

atar’s resolve to make the best construction applications, and has now even possible use of its construction been adopted by the GCC Standardization waste had been given a shot Organisation (GSO 2489/2015), said Dr Hassan.” in October 2016 thanks to a He added that developing the national and Q deal signed between QPMC regional standards with procedures for quality and TRL. According to the agreement, the two production will enhance the implementation of companies will adopt innovative solutions to recycled aggregates in practice. convert local construction waste into usable The Waste Management & Recycling Summit in aggregate products that can be used for various Doha in 2016 had stated that Qatar is expected to applications including road construction, building produce 19,000 tonnes/day of solid waste by 2032, and infrastructure development. of which 70% would be made up of construction Dr Khaled Hassan, Country Director - Qatar, and demolition (C&D) waste. According to a Qatar TRL, told Construction Today last year that Development Bank report, the revenue from the partnership will convert vast quantities of recycling C&D debris could raise about QR387 construction waste, currently dumped in landfills, “ROBOTIC SORTING OF CONSTRUCTION million. Qatar also aims at raising the recycle WASTE WOULD BE VERY HELPFUL IN into quality aggregates to protect the environment QATAR AS THE AUTOMATED MACHINES share from 8% to 38% of solid waste, reducing and support the government strategy of achieving WOULD NOT BE AFFECTED BY THE HEAT landfill to 53%, and converting waste to energy. AND HUMIDITY IN THE WAY THAT THEY total sustainable development. AFFECT HUMAN OPERATIVES.” Elaborating on the recycled aggregate “Over the last five years, TRL, along with the targets set by the QPMC-TRL deal, Dr Khaled relevant authorities in Qatar, has provided DR KHALED HASSAN said: “Production is planned to start slowly COUNTRY DIRECTOR local evidence of the innovative use of locally QATAR, TRL and build up over the next few years. In the first available recycled aggregates in construction. year of production, we are aiming at recycling This work was used as the basis for updating approximately 10,000 tonnes/day (equating to Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS 2014) to approximately 2.5 million tonnes per annum), allow the use of recycled aggregates in various and subsequently tripling our production in 3-5

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years to 30,000 tonnes/day (10 million tonnes per Rawdat Rashid. According to Dr Hassan, recycled reservations as far as its economics is concerned. annum).” He further said that recycled aggregates aggregates are already used as unbound subbase “Robotic sorting of construction waste would be could contribute up to one-third of the country’s in Qatar, but that its use in structural and non- very helpful in Qatar as the automated machines requirement for aggregates and will be associated structural concrete applications is less common. would not be affected by the heat and humidity with more reliance on local resources and saving He also stresses that the QPMC-TRL tie-up will in the way that they affect human operatives. It is costs. use the best available technology for carrying assumed that robots will separate the solid waste One of the highlights of the QPMC-TRL deal out its operations at its new recycling plant in the more accurately and effectively, provided they was about applying a new strategy for developing landfill site at Rawdat Rashid. are designed to work in hot, humid and dusty recycled aggregate to ensure quality products with “The basic process of aggregate production conditions. Having said that, aggregates are low- pre-certification prior to use in construction. “TRL consists of a series of stages of crushing and cost materials and labour available in the GCC is has introduced a ‘Codes of Practice’ to relevant screening of the raw materials. However, as far relatively cheap, so the cost of installing a robotic authorities in Qatar to ensure categorisation of as construction waste is concerned, additional system may not have economic benefits.” construction waste – inert, e.g., plastic, paper, processing is required to remove unwanted And, can Qatar draw inspiration from London’s wood, cloth, metal, tyres, etc. and hazardous, e.g., materials. The crushers and conveyor belts are Olympic Park where 90% of the waste which asbestos – before processing. This makes it easier fitted with powerful magnets to remove metal, would have gone to landfill was diverted towards to recycle at less cost and improves the quality of particularly reinforcing steel from concrete. the construction of the stadium? “The London end products,” said Dr Hassan. Lighter contaminants such as paper, plastic, Olympic Park was an exemplary project that He added: “TRL will work with the authorities to cloth and wood are removed by hand, and also achieved fantastic results by having a clear focus implement these ‘Codes of Practice’ and ensure by washing and blowing air. Washing is the most on sustainability from the start, and by building a that the produced recycled aggregates will be effective method and modern plants are very partnership between all the stakeholders involved in compliance with QCS. TRL will also work with efficient in the use of water, which is essential for in the construction process. But the project was the contractor producing the recycled aggregates operations in the desert.” all on one large site. In Qatar, the stadiums are to help them reach the standards required for China recently came out with its first spread across the country. We are expecting certification by Qatar Standards, so customers commercially available robotic waste sorting that once the QPMC-TRL deal starts to produce can be confident that they are of the same quality system because of the large quantities of multiple high-quality recycled aggregates in adequate as virgin (imported) aggregates.” waste categories and Dr Hassan feels that quantity, the material will be used widely for the Dr Hassan pointed out that not all of the waste Qatar could follow suit. However, he has a few construction of the stadiums,” said Dr Hassan is suitable to be used as aggregates, and that some materials are too weak and turn to dust during the initial processing. “Almost all of the produced recycled aggregates remain suitable for use as subbase (the layer below the asphalt), but only about 10-20% is strong enough to be used in concrete. The requirements for different applications are mentioned in QCS – a number of standard tests are used to determine the suitability of recycled aggregates for different applications. The processing is organised to produce aggregates that are high in strength at the end of the process, with the subbase and other products coming out at an earlier stage.” However, he feels that if processed properly, Qatar’s construction waste makes for excellent recycled aggregates, which have been used by TRL in several demonstration projects, for example – structural concrete blocks for three small buildings; and as subbase in the access road to the landfill site and recycling plant at

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HE SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ABDULRAHMAN AL THANI MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS STATE OF QATAR PROGRESS 2017-2018 SLUG NAME

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“WE ARE OPEN TO DIALOGUE TO RESOLVE THE OUTSTANDING PROBLEMS SO LONG AS QATAR’S SOVEREIGNTY IS RESPECTED.”

HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI THE EMIR STATE OF QATAR GCC STALEMATE: ADVANTAGE QATAR QATAR’S AVOWED POLICY TO TOE AN INDEPENDENT LINE WITH RESPECT TO ITS FOREIGN AFFAIRS HAS MADE SOME COUNTRIES IN THE REGION UNCOMFORTABLE, THUS LEADING TO A DIPLOMATIC RIFT SINCE JUNE 2 0 1 7.

he Saudi Arabia-led blockade on voiced concerns about the same. Qatar hosts the Tillerson further said that the US will continue Qatar, accusing the Gulf nation of Al Udeid air base, the largest US military facility to support the Kuwaiti leadership in its efforts financing extremist groups and in the Middle East. Trump even offered to hold a towards finding a diplomatic solution and will allying with regional rival Iran, summit at Camp David with the Qatari leadership continue to engage all parties in helping them to T has crossed nine months now. and the ‘blockading’ countries but the Saudi-led better understand the concerns, and possibly find The charge has been vehemently and repeatedly bloc did not respond. a solution. denied by the Qatar government. Interestingly, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who was in As far as Qatar and Iran are concerned, they the development took place a fortnight after Doha in the last week of October, said that the Gulf jointly own vast fields of natural gas in the region US President Donald Trump participated in the dispute had economic and military consequences and have been maintaining cordial relations. ‘Arab-NATO meet’, which was attended by 55 Arab for those involved, with his own country having This in turn is worrying the US government as it is and Muslim-dominated countries. The embargo felt the ill-effects. “We think it is very important apprehensive about Qatar cozying up to Iran if the was imposed by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE for the GCC to continue to pursue unity. It is most dispute continues. and Egypt in the first week of June 2017, and it effective when it is unified, and none of us can Besides the US and Kuwait, other countries like included closing Qatar’s only land border (with afford to let this dispute linger. Qatar’s neighbours Germany and Turkey have also been engaged Saudi Arabia), denying Qatar access to their should lift the land blockade as a sign of good in efforts to resolve the dispute in an amicable airspace and ordering their citizens to come back faith,” said Tillerson. manner. from Qatar. Shutting down the Al Jazeera news “So, we again call on all the parties involved to While the Saudi-led bloc wants Qatar to channel and halting Turkey’s military operations continue to work towards discussion and dialogue concede to its 13-point list of demands, which inside Qatar were some of the prerequisites for and find a way to deal with the differences. We includes shutting down the Al Jazeera channel, lifting the blockade. ask that everyone minimise the rhetoric and de- cutting ties with Islamist groups such as the Muslim Though the US had initially sided with Saudi escalate the tensions and take steps to do so. It’s Brotherhood, limiting ties with Iran and shutting Arabia, it later realised that the crisis was having not a healthy environment that we find for the down of the Turkish military base stationed in an adverse impact on its war against Daesh and current situation,” he added. the country, Qatar rejected the demands saying

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they were tantamount to interfering in its internal going to be above our dignity and our sovereignty. TALIBAN’S OFFICE IN DOHA affairs. If they are going to walk one metre towards me, In an interview with CBS news channel a few I’m willing to walk 10,000 miles towards them.” days ago, the Emir said that the Taliban was OPEN FOR DIALOGUE He further said he feared for the region if any allowed to open its office in Doha at the request Describing the blockade as a “shock”, the Emir His military actions were part of the crisis. “I am of the United States. “The reason why they came Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said fearful that if anything happens, if any military act here is not because of our request. America that Qatar was ready for dialogue with the Saudi- happens, this region will be in chaos.” wanted to have dialogue with the Taliban and led group, but made it clear that any solution to In a 22-minute address, Sheikh Tamim termed asked us if we can host them here. We obliged the crisis must respect his country’s sovereignty. the unjust blockade as a betrayal by his neighbours and this is the reason why they (Taliban) are “We are open to dialogue to resolve the that had ultimately failed to bring “Qatar to its here,” he said. outstanding problems so long as Qatar’s knees” and had allowed a total tutelage to be sovereignty is respected. Our sovereignty is a red imposed on it. He said: “The blockade is aimed CHECKING IRAN’S CONTROL line. We don’t accept anybody interfering with our at pressurising Qataris via foodstuffs, medicine On countering Iran’s influence in the region, sovereignty,” he said. and ripping off consanguineous relations to Qatar’s Foreign Minister HE Sheikh Mohammed While Qatar has been targeted by the destabilise a sovereign country. Isn’t this one of bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said that in the unprecedented campaign, the Emir said that the definitions of terrorism?” last GCC meeting held in Bahrain in 2016, the his country valued Kuwait’s mediation and the leaders agreed that they have to engage with support of the United States, Turkey and Germany Iran in a serious dialogue based on the principle for their efforts to resolve the crisis. of non-interference in each other’s affairs and “It is clear that the campaign against us was stopping any negative influence in the region preplanned. We took a test and passed it,” he and Qatar was committed to these principles. said, and added that he was amazed to see Qatari “Our position has been clear. Before the people maintaining a high level of morale despite crisis, during the crisis and even after the crisis, the smear campaign. we are against any negative influence in the “It was a true and ethical trial. Our people have region and any interference in the region and passed the test with flying colours, and we have in the Arab countries. We have been very clear been steadfast in our principles and traditions in expressing those concerns with Iran and with even in these trying times simply because we anyone who has any negative influence there,” respect ourselves. Qatar is fighting terrorism said the minister. relentlessly and without compromises and there He also said that the ongoing crisis was really is international recognition of our role in this undermining Qatar’s efforts to solve the issues regard. It is not to please others but because it in the region and “undermining its efforts” in believes in that mission,” he said. countering terrorism. “We see the opposite In a move to garner international support, here as they are affecting the counter-terrorism Sheikh Tamim even raised the issue at the UN “OUR POSITION HAS BEEN CLEAR. efforts in the region by imposing such a measure General Assembly, accusing the Saudi-led bloc BEFORE THE CRISIS, DURING THE CRISIS in a country which was just few months ago AND EVEN AFTER THE CRISIS, WE ARE of four countries of terrorism-like behaviour for AGAINST ANY NEGATIVE INFLUENCE IN considered a strong ally for them,” he pointed imposing the blockade. THE REGION AND ANY INTERFERENCE IN out. THE REGION.” He also said that he was willing to attend direct The minister also said that his country sought talks hosted by the US to settle the dispute but HE SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN to resolve the crisis through dialogue, but that was yet to get a response for the US president’s ABDULRAHMAN AL THANI Saudi Arabia wanted to destabilise Qatar and MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS offer to hold a meeting at his retreat at Camp STATE OF QATAR was resorting to further escalating the crisis by David. “We want the crisis to end. But nothing is trying to bring about about regime change

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“IRAN, QATAR GO BACK A LONG WAY” HE MOHAMMED ALI SUBHANI, THE AMBASSADOR OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN TO QATAR, CONFIRMS THAT THE RELATIONS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES ARE UNIQUE, BOTH HISTORICALLY AND CULTURALLY.

E Subhani emphasized the special and that Iran expects more of the same as the was given to developing the national industries bond shared between Iran and two nations have wide-ranging relations and in all forms and at all levels, and why the Qatar in terms of cooperation many areas of common interest, regionally and government opted to develop its ports and trade and harmony between the two bilaterally, that entail continuous consultation in order to reduce its dependence on overseas H governments and its people, between the two countries. He said that the visit resources. explaining that the rapprochement between of Dr Zarif comes mainly in this context. Sabhani stressed that Iran has always been the two countries started since Qatar gained its On Qatar’s handling of the Gulf crisis, the against all kinds of blockades and boycotts as independence and Iran immediately recognised Iranian ambassador said that it was rational they have also been victims of similar acts. He it as a sovereign state. Since then there have been and wise. Qatar opted to avoid escalation and went on to say: “Though we cannot say that the no problems in the relations between the two acted in a way conducive to maintaining national blockade is good due to the damage it causes, countries. independence and upholding the principles that it creates opportunities for getting around The Iranian ambassador pointed out that it is committed to. the problem. The countries that imposed the the recent visit of Dr Mohammed Javad Zarif, He added that the second point of the visit is embargo on Qatar thought that by doing so their the Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs, to Qatar related to Qatar’s geographical conditions that demands would be accepted quickly. This did comes within the context of the normal relations compelled the country to import its needs from not happen, and Qatar through upholding its and visits exchanged between the two brotherly neighbouring countries. Qatar thought that it principles and convictions was able to surmount countries and as a manifestation of the common was not obliged to be self-sufficient in food and the crisis easily. This has been proved by the culture and good neighbourliness that create other materials. However, due to the crisis special greater variety and abundance of commodities a sense of fraternity between the people and attention at the government and public levels at the malls and commercial centres, which has governments of the two countries. He said that was directed towards depending on national allowed Qatar to rely on its domestic products, the visit paid by HE Dr Zarif as well as those resources rather than importing its needs from optimising its potential and finding more sources made by the officials of Qatar to Iran are normal, other countries. This is why considerable thought for importing its needs.”

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The Iranian ambassador confirmed that the crisis has consolidated relations between the two countries, and said that Iran has given advice to Qatar on how to deal with the blockade. He also said that Qatar has chosen to increase its cooperation with Iran. Such rational behaviour on the part of Qatar, he said, helped Qatar to utilise the potential available in Iran, especially with the geographical proximity between the two countries. "This is why we in Iran confirm that we have no objection whatsoever to further strengthening our relations with Qatar in all fields. These relations which are based on good neighbourliness are not meant to be at the expense of other countries. All we want is to maintain peace and stability in the region." As far as trade relations between Qatar and Iran are concerned, he pointed out that he does not have accurate statistics in this regard, adding that economic, trade and other relations are more in this region and throughout Asia depends on both countries. Qatar is not densely populated, important than statistics. These relations have the development of land and sea ports, especially thus it is not considered to be a large consumer increased dramatically and in the future there will with regard to logistical services, shipping, market, but it has a distinguished geographical also be greater growth, which means that goods transportation and all trade facilities between location and good economical potential, so it can coming to Qatar from Iran are not only from Iran. the countries of the region. It is expected that cooperate with Iran, the countries surrounding They will come from Turkey, Russia, Europe and a new Iranian seaport called Jabhar will be Iran in central Asia and other countries like various other places through Iranian ports. commissioned shortly to play an important role Russia." He confirmed that "this cooperation He pointed out that Qatar is now looking at the as a link between the countries bordering the is not against any other country, and that countries to its north to focus on the countries Indian Ocean and Iran and the countries north of increasing trade relations between the countries to its south. "The nations to the north have great it. He said that, with its vast financial capabilities, generally prevents security and stability threats potential and have a market of more than 300 Qatar can invest in this field and in trade with in the region and provides a strong incentive to million people if we add Russia, Iran, Turkey those countries in general, adding that Qatar has maintain security in all the countries of the region. and Central Asia. So I think the main reason for opened Hamad Port which is developing and We are following this policy with all countries". the failure of the embargo is that the blockading will include free trade zones that can make it a Denying that there are investments made by countries did not consider that Qatar could utilise major trade destination, which will convince the the Iranian government in Qatar, he said that the its internal and external capabilities to move countries south of Qatar not to think of pressuring two countries shall witness joint investments and north. We now see how relations between Qatar it or imposing a blockade on it again. that the Qatari investments in Iran have increased and Russia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Pakistan and On trade relations between the two countries, even though it has been in a limited way. Pointing Afghanistan have grown stronger." the Iranian ambassador confirmed that out that it was too early to talk about that, he said He added that Qatar Airways has benefited cooperation between them can be developed in that the most important thing now is to overcome from Iranian airspace by increasing its activities all fields, especially in building and expanding the current Gulf crisis. The Qatari government and flights through Iran, and this will enable seaports in addition to food stuff and building and people have positive prospects for investing Qatar to actually invest in the crisis. materials. "We can say that cooperation between in Iran. There are thoughts and proposals in this Sabhani believes that the future of the market the two countries will enhance the capabilities of respect that are being studied now

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“QATAR IS A SISTER COUNTRY” TURKEY’S AMBASSADOR TO DOHA, FIKRET OZER, SAYS THAT THEIR NATION SEEKS GOOD RELATIONS WITH ALL GCC COUNTRIES, BUT THE CURRENT CIRCUMSTANCES MAKE QATAR THE CLOSEST COUNTRY TO TURKEY.

alling Qatar a “sister country”, States, among the largest investors in Turkey. also said that the Turkish economy ranks third Ambassador Ozer drew attention Ambassador Ozer hopes that these investments in the world and fifth in Europe with regard to to Qatar’s position on the will increase further in the future. purchasing power. attempted coup détat in Turkey in On the trade exchanges between Turkey and With regard to the outcome of Sheikh Tamim’s C July 2016 and the announcement Qatar, he said that in 2015 Turkey’s exports visit to Turkey, political issues of common by the Emir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al to Qatar reached $423 million, while Qatar’s interest were discussed. The Supreme Strategic Thani which supported Turkey’s legitimacy. exports to Turkey after the drop in oil prices Committee shared by the two countries, which He said that what happened in Qatar on June amounted to $361 million. “In 2016, Turkish was established in 2014, holds it meetings 5, 2017 is like what happened in Turkey on July exports to Qatar were $439 million and Qatar’s once a year. Its first meeting was held in Qatar, 15, 2016. After the siege, Turkey did its utmost so exports to Turkey were $271 million, and we note the second in Turkey, and the third took place that the people of Qatar did not feel the ill-effects a growth in Turkish exports to Qatar every year.” in November 2017 in Doha in the presence of of the crisis. And within 48 hours, the shelves of Ambassador Ozer also pointed out that the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. the markets and commercial complexes were Turkish economy is the seventh largest in the Ambassador Ozer praised Qatar’s adoption of full of all kinds of goods. world and is ranked sixth in Europe in terms new economic and political decisions after the He pointed out that Qatari investments in of GDP growth in 2016, according to the new blockade and talked about the goal of achieving the Turkish market, amounting to about $20 methodology to calculate GDP integrated with self-sufficiency in all aspects, especially in food billion, are significant, and they place Qatar in the System of National Accounts for 2018 and requirements. third position, after Germany and the United the European System of Accounts (ESA). He “The State of Qatar is benefiting from its

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domestic production. We see factories and “our Qatari brothers prefer to be due to their of Turkish citizens living in Qatar ranges companies that were idle or disabled in the past close proximity to Istanbul and its wonderful between nine and 10 thousand, the majority operating in full swing now and some Turkish natural scenery. There are also Qatari tourist of whom work as vehicle mechanics, workers companies visit Doha to restart or even establish investments in Bursa and Trabzon in the in restaurants, barbers and professionals in factories and new production projects as part of northeast of Turkey along the shores of the Black construction and contracting companies. There this policy. In fact, the Qatari people have proved Sea, but the majority of projects are based in are also some Turkish professors working in their cohesiveness and their solidarity with their Istanbul and Izmir. Discussions are also ongoing Qatari universities and students learning Arabic leadership, which is important and the key to on state-related investments”. in Qatar’s educational institutions, in addition to success,” he said. Ambassador Ozer pointed out that there doctors working in the Turkish Hospital, which Ambassador Ozer said that the most is a tangible presence of a number of Turkish was opened by President Erdogan a year ago. important areas in which Qatari capital companies working on national projects in Qatar As for the Turkish tourists who come to Qatar investments are made are real estate, industry, such as the Doha Metro (Qatar Rail); and road annually, he said that their number is not big but media and banking, pointing out that industrial projects (North Road and Al Khor Road) have can reach about 10,000. investments are made in the heavy industries also been carried out. Some Turkish companies, Pointing out that 2016 saw the visit of 33,000 segment. For example, Qatar invests in a factory e.g., Tekfen, are presently engaged in the Qatari citizens to Turkey, Ambassador Ozer to produce armoured military trucks in Izmir. construction of some stadiums that will host the concludes by saying that Qataris and Turks The products of this factory are purchased by 2022 FIFA World Cup finals in Qatar. TAV Turkey, are exempt from the visa requirement to visit the Turkish Army and are also used by the Qatari a specialized airport construction company, each other’s country, and adds that Turkey Army. also participated in the construction of Hamad grants long-term visitor visas for non-Qatari He added that a number of existing hotels International Airport. It has also established Abu companions and servants. “You can see that the or hotel projects are either owned or being Dhabi airport and airports in Tunis, Cairo, Tehran Turkish embassy in Doha is crowded with visitors established by Qatari investors in Turkey, and the Balkans. during the holiday season as a sign of Turkey’s especially in Istanbul and Sabanja, where Ambassador Ozer said that the number diverse tourist potential.”

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EDUCATION

HE DR MOHAMMED ABDUL WAHID ALI AL HAMMADI MINISTER OF EDUCATION AND HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRESS 2017-2018 EDUCATION

QATAR WITNESSES RISE IN EDUCATION EXPENDITURE THE ALLOCATIONS FOR EDUCATION IN QATAR’S 2017 GENERAL BUDGET INCREASED TO QR20.6 BILLION, WHICH REPRESENTED 10.4% OF TOTAL PUBLIC SPENDING. THESE ALLOCATIONS WERE ASSIGNED FOR THE COMPLETION AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NUMBER OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECTS, INCLUDING 28 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS AND KINDERGARTENS AND OFFERINGS FOR 17 NEW KINDERGARTENS.

he allocations also covered These teams are intentionally composed of local the completion of a number and foreign cadres to benefit from the experiences of buildings in the faculties of of developed countries in this field,” said Al education, pharmacy, medicine Hammadi. T and law, as well as the laboratory building of the faculty of science at Qatar AFFECTED STUDENTS University. Qatar Foundation for Education, With regard to the effect of the blockade on the Science and Community Development is students, HE Dr Al Hammadi said that the citizens completing a number of projects, which includes of the blockading countries receiving their research facilities and the infrastructure and education in Qatar were not affected at all. They transportation system in Education City. HE Dr are in a sister country; however, Qatari students Mohammed Abdul Wahid Ali Al Hammadi, Minister returning from the blockading countries face of Education and Higher Education, said that all different situations that are dealt with on a case- educational curricula will be amended in the by-case basis. Some of them wished to complete coming period, pointing out that the siege, being "ALL POLITICAL, DEVELOPMENTAL AND their studies abroad, especially those using English ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF THE HISTORY an integral part of the history of the country, will OF THE STATE OF QATAR WILL BE as a medium of instruction. Others were enrolled leave a distinct mark, not only on history but also REFLECTED IN ALL THE CURRICULA, in public and private schools, and university on all other educational materials. “All political, APART FROM HISTORY SYLLABUSES." students were enrolled in Qatar University and developmental and economic aspects of the HE DR MOHAMMED ABDUL WAHID the Community College to complete their study history of the State of Qatar will be reflected in all ALI AL HAMMADI programmes. Dr Al Hammadi also confirmed the curricula, apart from history syllabuses. Teams MINISTER OF EDUCATION AND HIGHER that the curriculum standards were reviewed and EDUCATION of experts have been formed to revise and oversee developed to conform to the general framework the standards of the curricula to be amended. of Qatar’s national education curriculum

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and the policy of developing and expanding preferences and aspirations. The priorities of to the University Foundation College. Khalifa early education programmes, enhancing the the strategy included achieving high enrollment Saad Al Dirham, director of the Schools Affairs attractiveness of the educational environment rates and improved academic and behavioural Department, said that there were 197 public and raising the standard of the services provided standards at all levels of education, high- schools with 13,560 teachers, and that 2,150 by the ministry to the public. He said that this quality and inclusive educational opportunities, buses had been allocated for the students. revision was one of the most important priorities competent teaching staff and school leadership, in the academic year 2017-2018 in the ministry’s and distinguished educational services provided PRIVATE SCHOOLS strategic plan 2017-2022. for stakeholders. The gathering reviewed the most Hamad Al Ghali, director of the Private Schools He pointed out that the ministry has effective factors in the achievement of results, Department at the Ministry of Education and implemented many initiatives and educational including high-quality early education, highly Higher Education, said that the ministry has projects aimed at achieving these priorities, qualified teachers and school leaders, advanced received 58 applications for the opening of new including the progress made in making policies, educational curricula and improved institutional private schools, of which 25 schools with a total enhancing procedures, and developing public performance. capacity of 8,235 students have already been and private schools as well as a comprehensive The Ministry of Education and Higher approved. He indicated that the ministry has educational assessment system. The other Education’s strategy 2017-2022 includes five updated the national accreditation system to initiatives mentioned include improvement in programmes: raising the quality of early education include a periodical follow-up from the ministry the academic standard of students, governing at kindergartens and public schools, upgrading of security and safety standards at schools. In and implementing the policies and legislative Qatar’s national educational curricula, developing addition, the ministry ensures that the quality of instruments of higher education, alongside a comprehensive management system for the private education is maintained in line with the other aspects to enhance the quality of Qatar’s performance of teachers and government school requirements of the Ministry of Education and educational outputs, paving the way for building leaders, improving the services extended to Higher Education. Qatar’s human capital, supporting its knowledge- stakeholders, and enhancing the institutional based economy and achieving competitiveness performance of the ministry. WITH MY ACTIVITIES I EXCEL internationally. This was raised in the third annual The Ministry of Education and Higher Education gathering on the updated strategic plan of the A FUTURE PLAN paid great attention to the organisation of Ministry of Education and Higher Education 2017- HE Dr Al Hammadi said that the ministry has summer centres under the theme “With My 2018, organised by the ministry. The participants a five-year plan through which to fulfill the Activities I Excel”. Such centres include a series included more than 80 leaders, experts and country’s requirements for schools. In fact, new of programmes and extracurricular activities, advisers, as well as representatives of the Ministry schools are opened each year – 10 opened in which are practiced during summer vacations to of Development Planning and Statistics, Qatar 2017 and seven are expected to open in 2018. In fulfill the aspirations of students and help them University, the advisory committee of school the coming period, 11 plots of land for schools will benefit from their leisure time under the direct principals and the advisory committee of teachers. be announced and the licences of 11 more plots supervision of schools and sponsorship of the During the function, the Minister of Education and for private schools were handed over, with 10 of Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Higher Education called for developing correct them accredited nationally and one accredited Al Dirham said: “The eight summer centres educational indexes, identifying the inclinations internationally. target all public school students from 6 to 18 years and preferences – in terms of being scientific or of age. They aim at providing various recreational, literary – of students separately in each school TWO PRIVATE EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS sports, educational, religious, scientific, technical, stage, following the attitudes of students – Dr Khalid Al Horr, director of the Higher Education community and technological activities, and help whether they wish to pursue military or civilian Institute, said that this year two private higher the students and the youth to spend their free study programmes – at the end of secondary education institutions, AFG College and the time in useful activities, developing their skills school, and developing plans in light of these University of Aberdeen, will be opened in addition and discovering their talents in the process.”

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QATAR’S FOUNDATION FOR R&D ENDEAVOURS THE YEAR 2017 WITNESSED A NUMBER OF LANDMARK DEVELOPMENTS WITH REGARD TO THE COUNTRY’S RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES, AND QATAR FOUNDATION WAS INVOLVED IN ALMOST ALL OF THEM.

uring the ninth Qatar National commercialisation,” he said. Research Fund (QNRF) Annual In other news concerning QF R&D, the body Forum, 85 research projects partnered with Oman Technology Fund (OTF) in an addressing Qatar’s greatest effort to strengthen and advance the technology D challenges came in for major development ecosystems of both nations. mention with funding awards being announced The tie-up will see both bodies combining their for them. Members of the nation’s research resources and insights to drive the development community gathered together in Doha at the and commercialisation of new technologies. Such Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) and a partnership is intended to generate economic the event was also broadcast live via the Internet and social benefits for their respective countries as QNRF’s National Priorities Research Program and make an impact in the global technology (NPRP), part of Qatar Foundation Research and market. Development (QF R&D), went global. QF R&D and OTF – which provides mentoring A presentation by Dr Abdul Sattar Al Taie, and funding for emerging technology enterprises Executive Director, QNRF, titled ‘Road To Impact’, “QSTP SERVES AS A REGIONAL HUB in Oman and the region – will support the creation OF TECH INNOVATION, AND THROUGH focused on the importance of NPRP-funded AIA WE AIM AT FOSTERING AN and growth of tech start-ups by opening up access projects leading to solid research outcomes. ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET AMONG to investment. Each entity will work together in “As Qatar’s national funding agency, QNRF’s THE REGION’S YOUTH, WHO WILL GO ON identifying promising technologies within Qatar TO DEVELOP PRODUCTS AND SERVICES commitment to preparing a diverse, globally THAT ADVANCE THE PAN-ARAB TECH and Oman which have the potential to create engaged research workforce has witnessed LANDSCAPE.” economic value, and will develop technology, an increase in creative, original submissions commercialisation, business models and DR MAHER HAKIM that not only align with the Qatar National EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR activities that unlock partnership opportunities. Research Strategy, but also show potential for QSTP The alliance was launched through the signing

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of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two parties at Qatar Science & Technology Park, part of QF R&D, in September. “Innovation does not recognise boundaries or geopolitical shifts,” said Dr Hamad Al Ibrahim, Executive Vice-President, QF R&D. “It is a universal and positive force that is not deterred by challenges, but thrives on the urgency of addressing them.” “Through collaboration that stretches across disciplines and nations, the development of technology that can reshape our world gains momentum and purpose. Such collaboration intensifies the capacity of research and innovation to generate true impact. “That is why we are delighted to be partnering with Oman Technology Fund to build a co- operative network that will be of mutual benefit to both Qatar and Oman in accelerating technology development and commercialisation, and further establishing both countries as forward-thinking hubs of research and innovation excellence.” In a move aimed at strengthening Qatar’s cyber resilience, QNRF teamed up with the Scientific and Technological Research Council from Turkey (TUBITAK) in September. Both QNRF and TUBITAK will provide funding for the programme. The joint venture will focus on three themes addressing cybersecurity challenges facing Qatar and Turkey – cloud and big data security, security systems for mobile devices and applications, and critical infrastructure cybersecurity. Academic and research institutes, and industry, private sector and government partners from both nations will work side by side through the jointly funded programme. bilateral cooperation in other key areas. Teams and innovation can be intensified by academia, Cybersecurity’s status as an issue of strategic from QF R&D and TUBITAK met on August 2 research institutes, and other stakeholders, priority for both Qatar and Turkey led to it being and 3 to formalise the joint funding call which industries, private companies and government selected as the focus of the initial programme, will employ a collaboration model called ‘2+2’. entities by pooling their resources, facilities and with the partnership having scope for further This model outlines how the impact of research expertise.

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QSTP also hosted the first edition of the Arab and services that advance the pan-Arab tech Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Innovation Academy (AIA), a collaboration landscape. The boot camp has been designed Foundation. between QSTP and the European Innovation to enrich participants’ learning experiences Almost 1,000 abstracts have been submitted Academy (EIA). The event started at the end of and provide a solid foundation for them to for the event, and a panel of experts will December 2017 and continued till the second successfully launch a start-up and, in turn, review and consider them for paper or poster week of January this year and was aimed at actively contribute to the diversification of the presentation at the conference. giving 200 future entrepreneurs an opportunity regional economy through knowledge and “ARC '18 aims at showing real-world impact to work under the guidance of leading Silicon innovation,” he added. being delivered by researchers and innovators in Valley mentors. Meanwhile, Alar Kolk, President of EIA, said: Qatar on issues critical to the future sustainability Dr Maher Hakim, Executive Director of QSTP, “Based on our previous European ventures I can and resilience of the nation, while bringing global said: “We are delighted to join forces with the say that the passion and skills of students from perspectives to the challenges we face, and EIA to launch the largest entrepreneurship the Arab world are remarkable. We are excited amplifying Qatar’s commitment to becoming programme for young and aspiring technology about the potential to scale our previous efforts a world-class hub of research and innovation innovators in the pan-Arab region. Through AIA, within Qatar and the Arab world, and we could excellence,” said Dr Al Ibrahim. both organisations aim at importing the best not have asked for a better partner than QSTP.” “Through ARC '18 we will illustrate to an practices in innovation that meet local market There were also reports in December about the international audience how the dynamic demands and contribute to a sustainable Qatar Foundation Annual Research Conference research and innovation ecosystem underpinned success for the entrepreneurship ecosystem in 2018 (ARC '18), which will be held under the by QF R&D – which encompasses all levels and the wider region.” theme 'Focusing on Priorities, Delivering Impact'. all sectors – is addressing Qatar’s national “QSTP serves as a regional hub of tech The event will see researchers, innovators, priorities, identifying and creating opportunities, innovation, and through AIA we aim at fostering thought-leaders and policymakers from Qatar generating impact, and driving the goal of an entrepreneurial mindset among the region’s and around the world gather at QNCC from bringing tangible benefits to people’s lives,” he youth, who will go on to develop products March 20-22, 2018, under the patronage of HH added

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ENTREPRENEURIAL MINI-BOOM AT CMU-Q INGENUITY, MENTORSHIP AND ELBOW GREASE FEED THE GROWING ALUM START-UP COMMUNITY.

ometimes the ideas begin through one place. It is the perfect setting for cross- prestigious six-month entrepreneur mentorship a small frustration of student life: pollination,” says John O’Brien, associate dean at programme in Silicon Valley. Stellic is now Sabih bin Wasi thought of Stellic as CMU-Q and an associate professor of accounting building a client base, including Carnegie Mellon he mulled over planning his course and experimental economics. in Pittsburgh and Tufts University in Boston, S schedule. Sometimes the ideas where the Stellic software will be incorporated start in the classroom: the kernels of meddy. INTERDISCIPLINARY ALCHEMY into the campus’ student advising system. co, an award-winning online physician referral The team behind Stellic (formerly called Metis) app, began as a project in one of Haris Aghadi is a melting pot of disciplines: Sabih bin Wasi is GUIDANCE AND MENTORSHIP and Abdulla AlKhenji’s senior-level courses. And a computer science graduate with a business Interdisciplinary connections extend beyond the sometimes the ideas start through friendship: minor, while co-founders Rukhsar Neyaz Khan students. With a ratio of roughly seven students when Brian Jeon faced a technical problem in his studied computer science with a focus in math to each professor, CMU-Q students have unheard first consulting job right out of CMU, he turned to and Jiyda Moussa earned a degree in information of access to experts who can guide and mentor classmate Naassih Gopee and the procurement systems with a concentration in graphic design. their fledgling businesses. software Inpleo was born. The mix of talents proved the right recipe Haris Aghadi, who graduated in 2014, says: There is an entrepreneurial mini-boom at for Stellic, an app for students and university “CMU-Q faculty members encourage students Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q). It is a administrators that must be both useful and to try out new ideas that eventually become an powder keg of ideas, caffeine-fueled all-nighters, user-friendly. “The design must be intuitive, economic reality.” Both Aghadi and AlKhenji are and clever problem-solving that is reminiscent of usable and enjoyable for students to plan,” says alumni from the Information Systems Program, the early days of Stanford and Silicon Valley. bin Wasi. “That is where we as CMU-Q grads have which gave them a solid footing for the technical “I think one of the reasons these ideas get off an advantage. Our education hasn’t been about challenges of launching their doctor discovery the ground is our building. In most universities the specific content, but how to learn, think and solve platform – in both English and Arabic – of more different disciplines have their own buildings and problems.” than 2,000 healthcare providers in Qatar. often they are quite insulated. At CMU-Q we have Stellic was first incubated at QSTP’s Accelerator Officially launched in 2015, Meddy won the biological sciences, business administration, programme; in December 2016, they were invited Startup Demo Competition at Arabnet Kuwait, computer science and information science in to join Stanford’s Alchemist Accelerator, a Startup of the Year from Entrepreneur Middle

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East, SeedStars GCC, and Tech Startup of the Year Jeon graduated and began working as ups are still in the early stages. As companies like at the Qatar IT Business Awards. a consultant. Several months later he was Meddy, Stellic and Inpleo continue to grow and listening to a client describe his challenges with develop, they serve as role models for current A GLOBAL COMMUNITY procurement. He realised that if he and Gopee students who are drawn to entrepreneurship. The connection between the Qatar and Pittsburgh further developed their project, they could use O’Brien says: “We teach students that campuses is close: many CMU-Q students it as a tool to address his client’s issues. Jeon entrepreneurship is a viable career path and our study for a semester at the main campus, while contacted Gopee, who brought in Jassim Polin as alumni are living proof of that. There is a real Pittsburgh students come to Qatar as part of a third partner. Together they created a prototype momentum, and we are excited to see what our campus exchange, academic competitions and Inpleo was officially born. students and alumni do next.” and inter-campus visits. For some students like Inpleo is moving ahead with a truly Naassih Gopee, a 2016 graduate of the Computer international team and as the platform moves THE NEXT GENERATION Science Program, studying in Pittsburgh set the past the beta stage, they envision a global University students from across Qatar gather at stage for a career in entrepreneurship. presence. Gopee notes that their international CMU-Q each year in March for Quick Startup, a “I met Brian Jeon in one of my classes in my team is appealing to potential clients. “This is three-day competition and training programme sophomore year, and we created a project the age of globalisation, and clients can see the for college students who are interested in together that applies machine learning to match growth potential of enterprise software that is entrepreneurship. Students receive guidance engineering and heavy manufacturing companies located in technology hubs like Pittsburgh and and mentoring from professionals as they build with vendors using a reverse-auction platform. Doha.” a business plan and investor pitch over the We also use data analytics techniques to provide Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar graduated weekend. The pitches are evaluated by a panel of clients with fine-grained feedback,” says Gopee. its first class nearly 10 years ago, and alumni start- judges who award prizes to the top three teams

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ACS DOHA: PREPARING NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK TO CELEBRATE QATAR’S PROGRESS IN 2017 IS TO ACKNOWLEDGE NOT ONLY ITS CONTINUING SUCCESSES BUT ALSO ITS DAUNTLESS SPIRIT DURING A SOMETIMES CHALLENGING YEAR.

espite setbacks, Qatar has shown ACS Doha International School have already Learners at ACS Doha can participate in how planning and resources are introduced specialised Lower School curricula organised travel to other countries as part of the brought to life by good leadership including the International Baccalaureate school’s Service Learning Programme, whereby with the strength of character and Primary Years Programme to empower younger students are offered learning opportunities D team spirit to enable individuals learners. Like all fields of knowledge, education abroad around community service and both to perceive constructive goals and take the is making rapid advances worldwide, and it environmental issues, and can explore other appropriate responsibility for bringing about is essential to make sure Qatar’s schools stay learning styles and methods outside Qatar. desired change. up to date with best practice in new teaching Recently, the school offered visits to Oman, Laos, Education is a vital component in developing and learning approaches; therefore, in order Italy, and Cobham (UK) for football. At home, the a leadership attitude at all levels of society, to evaluate changing curricula and teaching ethos of internationalism and community brings and Qatar’s progress in education has been practice, an important marker for excellence is together people of all ethnic backgrounds to mark impressive. ongoing accreditation by a reputable educational the remarkable achievements of the nation in ACS Today’s eighteen-year-olds leave school standards body. It is also very important that Doha’s own celebration of Qatar National Day – a knowing that by 2030 they will be thirty, and schools and colleges develop robust collaborative meaningful occasion for the school community of making influential decisions. Their understanding relationships with other centres of learning and ACS Doha to come together and share experiences and observation will shape the Qatar of the future industry, so that the student community benefits inspired by the history, rich culture and beautiful – and so their education today must provide them from a strong network effect right from the start. heritage of Qatar. with the skills to navigate the as-yet-unknown ACS Doha is a useful case study for understanding The spirit of collaboration for growth has economic, technological and socio-political Qatar’s progress in education over the last year. been evident in a number of representative circumstances a generation ahead. The Ministry Part of the 50-year-old ACS International Schools cooperative ventures by ACS Doha during the past of Education has thus actively encouraged the Group, its recent accreditation by the Western twelve months. ACS Doha’s collaboration with establishment of educational institutions which Association of Schools and Colleges affirms its Qatar Foundation Recreation Centre has helped instil an ethos of internationalism, adaptability, status in Qatar as a well-established school with a realise more of the school’s potential while it desire to learn, and team spirit, where high values proven track record of delivering excellent results is developing its own state-of-the-art campus. and aspirations build on a foundation of confident for the learning community as a whole, starting Their Memorandum of Understanding allows morals and respect for others and oneself. This is with students and including teachers, parents ACS Doha students and community to make use the most reliable medium-to-long-term security in and leadership. The school celebrated its third of some of the highest levels of sports facilities in which a nation can invest. graduation ceremony in 2018, having placed more Qatar, which, in line with the human development It’s increasingly clear that the early, formative than a hundred graduates in universities in the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, encourages years affect all subsequent education, which USA, UK and Canada, helping to advance Qatar’s widespread participation in sports and physical is why several leading schools in Qatar such as soft-power reach and influence around the world. activity from an early age, and helps inspire all

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members of the community to maintain positive, long-lasting health. As a further example of collaboration for mutual benefit, early in December, ACS Doha football coaches leading the school’s Coerver Coaching Centre of Excellence were invited to work with Qatar’s national talent centre coaches at Aspire in a practical session of Coerver® – the globally renowned football coaching methodology for skill acquisition and increased confidence among young footballers. The Aspire group is responsible for the performance development of the national programme from the grassroots through to elite players. It became evident during the exercise that Aspire, Coerver® and ACS Doha share core values of persistence and hard work for growth, which was favourably commented upon by both Aspire and ACS Doha. technology environment, and the One-on-One be imposed or forced, but through meaningful ACS Doha International School also promotes iPad programme providing an iPad to each education they can be elicited and nurtured. an interest in independent learning through student to facilitate new learning opportunities in During the past year, Qatar has made projects for more reading outside the classroom, Lower and Middle School. considerable progress in education, as offering all Lower School grades regular visits The value of instilling and developing exemplified by the achievements of ACS Doha. to the recently opened Qatar National Library, confidence, competence and curiosity to learn These high standards of academic and social not only as part of students’ ongoing learning in young people cannot be overemphasised performance, community engagement and journey but to encourage them to take advantage when we think about Qatar’s future progress. international outlook are increasingly in demand of one of the biggest educational achievements Tomorrow’s leaders in all sectors of society will around the world, and Qatar can only benefit by in Qatar during this past year. Importantly, ICT require excellent learning skills, the courage to continuing to expand its educational horizons is also integrated from an early age with a Bring face change, and good judgment with decisiveness and increase both the quantity and quality of Your Laptop programme helping High School informed by imagination, empathy and a sure education on offer at all levels to its citizens and students to attain their full potential in a learning- sense of right and wrong. These qualities cannot residents

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HE DR HANAN MOHAMMED AL KUWARI MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRESS 2017-2018 HEALTH

A YEAR OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE QATAR CONSIDERS THE QUALITY AND SAFETY OF HEALTHCARE SERVICES AS ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HEALTH SYSTEM.

atar National Vision 2030 in terms of building materials, paints and all in the health sectors of the developed world, by emphasizes the importance requirements that will enhance the sustainability upgrading work efficiency and providing patients of developing an integrated of the buildings and provide a comfortable internal with high-quality care and an accurate diagnosis healthcare system that provides environment for the benefit of patients, medical of health cases. Q high-quality preventive and staff and visitors alike. The facility also includes treatment health services in accordance with the main kitchen of the hospitals of Hamad Bin DAY CARE CENTER the highest international standards. The health Khalifa Medical City, with an output capacity of The main medical facility in Hamad Bin Khalifa sector also ensures the highest levels of patient 8,000 meals per day and pharmaceutical robotic Medical City is the Day Care Center, which provides safety through the provision of the best, safe and systems that automatically process and dispense day-to-day surgery services and outpatient care effective healthcare. drugs to different sections. The project includes services as well as diagnostic, observation and In 2017, the country allocated QR24 billion for three specialized centres that provide medical treatment services for adult outpatients. The healthcare (12.3% of the total general budget) care of the highest level. The Ministry of Public centre intends to receive cases of minor surgical compared to QR20.7 billion (10% of the general Health adopts the vision of providing specialized procedures that are performed in major surgical budget) allocated in 2016. Oxford Business Group services at all departments and medical teams, operating theatres and rooms. Hamad Medical confirmed that Qatar, with 22% of its GDP spent an approach that has proved to be successful Corporation is one of many healthcare providers on healthcare and preventive measures last year, which design and establish special short-stay leads the Middle East in this respect, compared facilities for surgical procedures that require to the averages ranging from 7% to 11% in the a stay of less than 24 hours. The new day care countries blockading Qatar – Bahrain, Saudi centre has 66 beds divided into 12 sections for Arabia and UAE – the group said in its latest report. pre-operative care and 54 for postoperative care, The new National Health Strategy of Qatar in addition to 14 operating rooms. The centre focuses on expanding medical facilities and occupies an area of 33,400 square metres and developing policies that improve the quality, includes urology, foot care, gastroenterology, safety and efficiency of healthcare, and promote ENT, hearing and eye clinics. It will also include healthy lifestyles, the latter being a key element in a pre-surgery assessment clinic where patients Qatar’s new national health strategy for the next six undergo a rigorous medical evaluation to ensure years. The strategy includes preemptive measures they are ready for surgery. Patient care is designed to prevent the spread of non-communicable to provide the best possible medical results diseases and reduce the financial and medical and facilitate patient access to the services; burden on the country’s healthcare system. The many therapeutic and surgical services are also official opening of Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical available. This means that patients will be able City took place in January. Occupying a total “THE NATIONAL OBESITY TREATMENT to avoid unnecessary hospital stays, recover and CENTER...IS REINFORCING OUR area of 227,000 square metres, the hospitals in COMMITMENT IN QATAR TO PROVIDE receive follow-up medical care at their homes. the medical city have 559 beds, a day care centre, THE BEST, SAFE, COMPASSIONATE AND The day care centre began to receive patients Qatar Rehabilitation Institute and Women’s EFFECTIVE CARE FOR PATIENTS.” in the outpatient urology clinics instead of their Wellness and Research Center. These facilities are previous facility at Hamad General Hospital. The HE DR HANAN MOHAMMED designed to the highest international standards AL KUWARI urology outpatient clinics have been established MINISTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH

132 PROGRESS 2017-2018 HEALTH following the clinics for diabetic foot syndrome and gastrointestinal and liver diseases, as well as endoscopic services, which had been opened previously. Additional clinics for ENT, pre-surgery anaesthesia and surgical services are scheduled to be moved to the centre in the coming months. The gradual opening of outpatient services at the centre is preceded by the opening of three new hospitals in Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City and the commencement of one-day surgical operations. Dr Khaled Al Rumaihi, head of the urology section at Hamad Medical Corporation, said that the state-of-the-art medical care centre will provide better care in a proper environment and will have a positive impact on the efficiency of medical care services provided to citizens and residents alike in the State of Qatar.

QATAR REHABILITATION INSTITUTE Occupying an area of 38,000 square metres, adults and neurological physiotherapy, which have been referred to the centre’s Well Baby Qatar Rehabilitation Institute has 200 beds and a were transferred to it from Rumaila Hospital in clinics, which have been designed to provide hydrotherapy wing, which is considered to be one December 2016. More clinics and services will be continuous medical care and follow-up services of the most advanced of its kind in the Gulf region. opened gradually. The services offered to patients for these newborn babies. Newborns in the high- Automated systems for lifting of patients are at Qatar Rehabilitation Institute are based on risk category are admitted to these clinics after strategically placed throughout the facility to help the various rehabilitation programmes geared to being discharged from the intensive care unit. patients who are injured or disabled. This is done provide patient-centred healthcare. When Qatar Dr Samawal M Lutfi, Deputy Director and Senior with the help of automatic suspended devices that Rehabilitation Institute operates at full capacity, Consultant of Neonatal Perinatal Medicine at carry the injured and help them to stand or move. a multidisciplinary patient care programme will Women’s Hospital, said that babies referred to the The institute also includes outpatient clinics for be added to the stroke, brain injury, spinal cord dedicated clinics may have medical conditions or functional therapy, organ transplant and inpatient injury, musculoskeletal therapy and children environmental circumstances that have put them treatment support. It provides comprehensive rehabilitation programmes. These programmes at greater risk of developmental delays. and integrated rehabilitation services for children are designed to take care of patients with acute and adults -– including treatment for patients and sub-acute disorders, short-stay patients, NATIONAL OBESITY TREATMENT CENTER suffering from stroke or brain injuries – to help outpatients and in-patients of rehabilitation HE Dr Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, Minister them recover and have better lives despite their centres. This approach ensures that the patients’ of Public Health, officially opened the National injuries and disabilities. needs and expectations are continuously met Obesity Treatment Center at Qatar Diabetes, The physiotherapy outpatient clinics include during their therapeutic sessions. Obesity and Metabolic Research Unit at Hamad 12 treatment rooms, four gymnasiums, a social Medical Corporation. While commenting on the therapy room, a main wing for educational and WOMEN’S WELLNESS AND RESEARCH importance of the new centre she described the support services, the main laboratory, 193 beds CENTER opening of the National Obesity Treatment Center and five physiotherapy pools. The institute also Occupying an area of 72,000 square metres, as a milestone in the fight against obesity in Qatar. has a state-of-the-art radiotherapy centre with the Women’s Wellness and Research Center “The National Obesity Treatment Center, which is two computed tomography (CT) scan machines, has a capacity of 15,000 births per year, 198 intended to prevent weight-related diseases in two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) units, in-patient beds, 101 beds for newborn babies, line with the country’s National Health Strategy, six X-Ray chambers and 10 ultrasound rooms. It seven operating rooms, 21 delivery rooms and is reinforcing our commitment in Qatar to provide is worth mentioning that Qatar Rehabilitation 60 outpatient examination rooms. The facility the best, safe, compassionate and effective care Institute has started to receive patients from also has emergency services for caesarean for patients. This matter is of much importance inpatient units of Rumaila Hospital since March sections, as well as screening rooms, ultrasound in Qatar, especially with the health challenges 24, 2017. It currently includes outpatient clinics rooms, treatment rooms and emergency delivery associated with the country, which has one of the for physiotherapy and rehabilitation, speech rooms. Low-risk and high-risk newborns who highest rates of metabolic disorders caused by and language therapy, a neurosurgery clinic for need follow-up and specialized medical care obesity and diabetes,” she said

133 PROGRESS 2017-2018 SLUGHEALTH NAME NEARLY 3 MILLION PEOPLE VISITED PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRES IN 2017 PHCC ANNOUNCED THAT NEARLY 2,900,000 PEOPLE VISITED THE HEALTH CENTRES DURING 2017 THROUGH 23 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES IN THREE REGIONS - CENTRAL, WESTERN AND NORTHERN.

atients benefited from a variety cancer during 2017 devices and information systems, and Radent, the of health services that depend on The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) American company which provides the centre’s the location and needs of each is implementing the early detection programme operation services, and Specialist Medical region through a set of goals for breast and bowel cancer in the State of Solutions company, which is responsible for P to maintain the health of the Qatar. PHCC is the basic provider of a wide providing administrative support in Doha through population and protect them from diseases. In range of healthcare services across Qatar, and three specialized centres for early detection of addition to carrying out diagnosis and treatment it has been mandated to lead the programme breast and bowel cancer and a mobile centre. of patients, the health centres also provide long- implementation efforts. As part of its efforts to In this regard, PHCC has confirmed that the term and continuous support to patients and their ensure the implementation of the programme number of patients who had early detection of families, starting from the infants to the elderly, effectively and efficiently, PHCC has attracted the breast cancer in 2017 was 11622. adolescents, adults, couples and mothers. expertise of an international alliance of leading The number of male and female patients who PHCC: More than 21,000 patients have benefited international companies including Fujifilm, the had early detection of bowel cancer in 2017 was from early screening services for breast and bowel Japanese company, which will provide medical 9494

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PROGRESS 2017-2018 PHOTO FEATURE

QATAR CELEBRATES ITS 10TH NATIONAL DAY

SINCE BEING ESTABLISHED IN 2007, THE SIGNIFICANCE OF QATAR’S NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS WENT UP A NOTCH IN 2017 BECAUSE OF THE HOSTILE ATTITUDE OF ITS NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES. THE EMIR HH SHEIKH TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL THANI WAS JOINED BY HIS FATHER HH SHEIKH HAMAD BIN KHALIFA AL THANI IN THE CELEBRATIONS AS AN ENTIRE NATION UNITED IN SUPPORT OF QATAR’S SOVEREIGNTY.

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Ayoub El Idrissi (blue) of Qatar grapples with Brian Chiminya Iraq’s Alaa Mahawi (right) in of Zimbabwe in the men’s 66 kg category of the Judo World action against Qatari player Championships in the Papp Laszlo Budapest Sports Arena, Hungary. Akram Hasan during the Gulf Cup of Nations soccer match between the two countries at Al Kuwait Sports Club, Kuwait.

GOLDEN MOMENTS OF QATAR SPORTS IN 2017

Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar reacts after winning the men’s High Jump event during the Weltklasse IAAF Diamond League international athletics competition at the Letzigrund stadium in Zurich, Switzerland.

Qatari weightlifter Fares Ibrahim Elbakh in action during the men’s Qatar’s Mahmoud 95 kg weight class competition at the Hassaballa (right) in action Weightlifting World Championships during the quarterfinal at the Anaheim Convention Center in match between Slovenia Anaheim, California. and Qatar at the IHF Men’s Handball World Championship in Paris, France. 138 PROGRESS 2017-2018 PHOTO FEATURE

Jeunghun Wang of Jeunghun Wang of South Korea tees off at the 18th South Korea holds hole during the final round of the Qatar Masters golf the winner’s trophy tournament at the Doha Golf Club. after winning the Qatar Masters golf tournament at the Doha Golf Club.

Novak Djokovic celebrates with his trophy after beating Andy Murray in the final of the 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open.

Spectators protect themselves from the rain at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex during the 2017 Qatar Total Open.

Andy Murray in action against Tomas Berdych during their men’s singles semi-final of the 2017 Qatar ExxonMobil Open.

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