Digital Qatar May 2022

MAY 2022

QATAR ON FAST TRACK TO SMART GRID THE POTENTIAL OF QATAR’S
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION CYBERSECURITY E-COMMERCE SECTOR



Qatar wins
World Summit Awardfor Digital Innovation
Qatar has won at the World Summit Awards Digital Qatar
2021 in the government & citizen engagement
category through the Tasmu platform, which is Supplements Team
the basis for the digital infrastructure of Smart Qatar.
The Tasmu platform was selected among 40 reach our goals of social progress, economic growth Advertising & Marketing Manager
and environmental change. The platform enables Hassan Ali Anwari
the government agencies and businesses work Sr. Business Development Manager
collaboratively to deliver smart solutions to our citizens Sanjai Noah
and visitors.”
Editor
The eight award categories for WSA 2021 are Amjad Vanimal
government & citizen engagement, health &
winners (five for each of the eight award categories) wellbeing, environment & green energy, business & Layout / Graphics
announced by the award office out of a total of commerce, learning & education, culture & tourism, A.K. Vinay Kumar
800 nominations from more than 100 countries
participating in the award, Qatar News Agency smart settlements & urbanisation, and inclusion & Circulation in-charge
reported. Sherif Samy

This platform will allow for the collection of and empowerment.

analysis of information at the national level to develop A national pre-selection committee formed
joint smart solutions that contribute to improving by the local expert for the World Summit
Awards in Qatar, HE al-Mansoori,
people’s daily lives. evaluated the works submitted
and selected the finalist for each
The work of the Tasmu platform is “based on cloud award category to represent
computing technology to provide services at the Qatar at the global level.
national level to all State institutions, the private
sector and developers to store and analyse big
data and link it to a set of comprehensive technical
solutions such as electronic payment systems,
geographic information system, weather and traffic
monitoring systems, as well as enabling them to
benefit from the capabilities of 5G technology, the
Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and others, to
be the beating heart of all smart services and solutions
provided in Qatar”, according to a press statement.

The Tasmu platform performs three important Advertising Office
functions. The first is its role in promoting direct Gulf Times/Arrayah Building, C Ring Road,
communication between government institutions, P.O. Box 533, Doha Qatar
companies and individuals working in various sectors Tel: (+974) 44466621
and harmonising their efforts, while the second is its Fax: (+974) 44310992
role in providing modern technologies to workers in email: [email protected]
the public and private sectors to develop their smart
solutions and applications that meet national KPIs.
The third function is to store and analyse data at the
national level.

These three functions support the achievement of the
long-term goals of the Smart Qatar Tasmu Programme
launched by the Ministry of Communications and
Information Technology (MCIT), as a digital response
to Qatar National Vision 2030. It also contributes to
developing government performance, supporting joint
work between different sectors, raising the quality of
products, maintaining the sustainability of resources,
and providing an integrated experience for users to
simplify the performance of tasks, facilitate access to
services and overcome obstacles to ensure a better life
for the individual and society.

HE Reem al-Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary for
Digital Society Development at the MCIT, said: “This
recognition is a testament to Qatar’s commitment to
be a leading smart country. We are proud to see that
the Tasmu platform has been selected out of many
renowned initiatives. The technology enables us to

DIGITAL QATAR 3

Leading the Digital Banking Scene in Qatar

QIB raises the bar on innovation, customer experience and digital banking in Qatar with first-to-
market and reimagined products for today’s digitally savvy customers

A Transformation Journey Powered by Innovation Qatar to introduce end-to-end digital products via its Mobile App, QIB has succeeded
in increasing customers’ trust and usage of its digital channels to fulfill most of their
As consumer preferences are constantly changing and banks are being challenged banking needs, payments, and local and international transfers.
to keep up with today’s digitally focused market, QIB has taken the lead in adopting
innovative solutions, by undertaking numerous digital banking initiatives and
introducing revolutionary products and services in line with its digital transformation
strategy.

QIB continues to revolutionize the digital banking scene, catering to the everyday Instant Finance
needs of its customers, from opening an account to instant fulfilment of personal QIB introduced “Instant Finance Against Deposit” feature, a first of its kind in Qatar,
financing and credit cards. QIB continues to implement its long-term business allowing customers who have Fixed or Certificate of Deposits with the Bank to avail
strategy keeping customers at the core of its priorities, remaining dedicated to instant financing through the App backed by their deposits.
offering the best, fastest, and most trusted banking products in Qatar.
With many advanced features to tap into the wider market, QIB bridges the gap Video Banking
between online and offline products and services, moving current capabilities online QIB is the first bank in Qatar to launch Video Banking through its Mobile App,
and providing a fusion of online and offline banking experiences as part of its allowing customers to easily place a video call with a representative from QIB for a
journey to shift towards a cashless society. real-time, efficient guidance while applying for Instant Finance digitally via the QIB
As the demand for a sustainable society also increases and to help tackle Mobile App.
environmental problems, QIB has adopted a sustainable banking approach, focusing
on digitalizing its retail and wholesale products and services – to widen customer
access, increase resource efficiency, minimize waste, and deliver better service. QIB
is committed to further integrating sustainability and environmental, social, and
governance considerations at the core of its operations.

The All-New QIB Mobile

QIB has launched an all-new version of its award-winning Mobile App. Creating a
simplified and more engaging user experience, the App adopts a convenient, “step
by step”, approach with enhanced navigation to enable easy and full access to the
Bank’s digital services 24/7 and from anywhere in the world.
The all new QIB Mobile App has received a full structural revamp in this latest
groundbreaking update with navigational enhancements that enable customers
to be in control of their banking and financial needs. The revamped QIB Mobile
App comes in line with customers relying more on digital channels and seeking a
seamless integration of digital and physical capabilities.

Rated 4.7+ on Play Store and App Store and 4.1 on Google Play, the QIB Mobile App Visa Direct
is available on App Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery. With over 2 million QIB is the first bank in Qatar to launch Visa Direct, a remittance solution for
monthly logins, the QIB Mobile App has come a long way enabling customers to customers to pay from an account to any Visa Card instantly in over 25 countries in
easily self-register using their active ATM/Debit Card number and PIN. For more MENA Region, Europe and Asia.
information, visit www.qib.com.qa

Market Firsts

QIB is set to revolutionize Digital Banking in Qatar with a myriad of first-to-market
products and services, making them a digitally leading bank. Being the first bank in

4 DIGITAL QATAR

QIB continues to contribute significantly to Qatar Development Bank’s (QDB) Al
Dhameen Program, which encourages SMEs to acquire the suitable financing from
banks to grow their businesses, in addition to other initiatives launched by QDB to
offer easier access to financing for Qatari SMEs.

Discreet Mode
QIB launched the first-of-its-kind “Discreet Mode” feature on its intuitive Mobile App,
allowing customers to hide their accounts and card balances, deposits, and financial
details when using the App in public places.

Corporate Online Account Opening through Website

Corporate and SMEs can now open new accounts through QIB Website to simplify
the corporate account opening process.

Conversational Virtual Assistant Dhareeba
QIB is the first bank in Qatar to launch a conversational virtual assistant armed with
proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. ’Zaki,’ meaning Retail and corporate customers can settle their tax invoices safely through the QIB
smart, allowing customers to interact with the bank 24/7. Mobile App and their Internet Banking platform.

Corporate Banking Goes Digital On the Path to Revolutionizing Corporate Banking

QIB has continued its path toward accelerating the digitization of SME financing and n 100% of Corporate salary payments made online in 2021
launching new products providing a full package of financial solutions and services n 91% of local & international transfers via the Corporate Internet Banking in 2021
to its SME customers. These include Merchant Acquiring Services (POS), mobile POS, n 91% of digitally active SME customers
and online Wages Protection System (WPS) for the automatic processing of monthly QIB continues its journey towards innovation and sustainability with more ambition
payrolls, as well as a new co-branded corporate credit cards in collaboration with than ever before, launching innovative products and services that benefit customers
Ooredoo, and corporate deposit cards. and society at large. QIB remains committed to invest and build the right digital
QIB’s SME offering includes a host of innovative products and services catered infrastructure and ecosystem for a better tomorrow.
toward fulfilling the banking requirements of this vital sector, including the Aamaly
(My Business) program, which offers tailored products and services to SMEs
in Qatar.

QIB Approach to Sustainability

QIB’s sustainability strategy has been launched with the ambition to help solve
some of the most pressing challenges, by digitalizing retail and wholesale
products and services to widen customer access, increase resource efficiency,
minimize waste, and deliver better service.
QIB employs a robust ESG program which incorporates all its efforts to integrate
sustainability and environmental, social, and governance considerations at the
core of its operations. In line with this program, QIB’s recently formulated future
sustainability strategy, is aligned with the objectives of the Qatar National Vision
2030 (QNV), as well as with the sustainability criteria mandated by the Qatar Stock
Exchange, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
With these frameworks as a guide, important elements of the strategy include ways
to enhance consideration of sustainability criteria in financing activities, supporting
local communities, and taking initiatives that reduce environmental impact.
In 2021, QIB issued its first sustainability report to highlight its efforts to contribute
to the accomplishment of global sustainable development goals and highlights the
Bank’s achievements in implementing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
standards.
QB’s sustainability framework consists of five pillars: Sustainable Finance,
Responsible Banking, Governance, Ethics & Risk Management, Empowering QIB’s
People and Positive Community Impacts. These pillars and their corresponding topics
reflect the bank’s strategic priorities to enable sustainable growth while delivering
an outstanding customer experience.

Our Sustainability Strategy digitally, along with a preapproved Credit Card. Bedaya is an initiative within the
framework of the Bank’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Program.
As part of its commitment towards sustainability, QIB sponsored the ninth edition QIB has contributed significantly to the Qatar National Vision by financing projects
of Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ) and the third edition of Qatar that are diversifying the economy, increasing food security, and supporting the
International Environment Exhibition (EnviroteQ), to further integrate sustainability private sector and the local community.
and environmental, social and governance-related practices at the core of its
operations.

Furthermore, QIB integrated its Bedaya student account onboarding on its Mobile
App which provides university students the ability to open a unique bank account

DIGITAL QATAR 5

6 DIGITAL QATAR

Qatar on fast track to
digital transformation
The government is keen on maintaining the Msheireb Properties CEO Nasser Matar al-Kawari city policies, bringing together representatives from
acceleration of Qatar’s digital transformation, said, “A smart city became a real need to cope with all over the world to share projects, experiences and
HE the Minister of Communications and the rapid change of today’s world. Technology is best ideas to maintain a future of resilience and a
Information Technology Mohamed bin Ali bin now an integral part of today’s construction projects better life for all of us.”
Mohamed al-Mannai said recently at the opening and urban developments, which is keen to leverage Hardie Davis, Jr, the mayor of Augusta, Georgia,
ceremony of Smart City Expo Doha 2022, being held the digital revolution to offer people more benefits said: “As the mayor of Augusta and the chair of
under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and in their daily life and work. Smart City Expo USA, I am pleased to join leaders
Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin “Based on that, Msheireb Properties envisioned from around the world at Smart City Expo Doha
Abdulaziz al-Thani. a new smart city, which has been smart since its to discuss sustaining a future of resilience. The
The two-day global forum organised by the Ministry inception and planning. Msheireb Downtown Doha Msheireb district is a true representation of a smart,
of Communications and Information Technology became one of the world’s smartest and most equitable, and sustainable 21st-century city.”
(MCIT), in partnership with Fira de Barcelona, is sustainable city districts and an ideal example of Following the official opening speeches, HE al-
being held at Msheireb Downtown Doha, which what modern urban planning should be to meet Mannai and guests toured the exhibition area and
is hosting smart city experts from more than 60 the demands of the future with resilience and visited the Sponsors area, Solution Provider area,
countries. Held under the theme ‘Sustainable Future flexibility.” Innovation Hub and Start-up area, Government
of Resilience’, Smart City Expo Doha 2022 has He added, “This city we gather in today is the result area, Countries and Embassies area, and the
attracted global innovators to the event that has of our vision a decade ago: to become a futuristic MCIT pavilion. Smart City Expo Doha 2022 brings
witnessed the unveiling of three smart city projects, hub for the next generations. It relies on advanced together more than 70 world-renowned smart city
which are supported by the Tasmu Accelerator. and modern-day technology, but at the same time, experts representing over 60 countries, more than
During the opening ceremony, HE al-Mannai said, carries the heritage and legacy of our country’s rich 90 sponsors and exhibitors, and three keynote
“We are pleased to hold the Smart City Expo Doha history. sessions to share ideas and solutions on how to
in Qatar for the second time, where we will connect “Our mission and vision to expand knowledge create a better, more sustainable future for cities
with local and international stakeholders, experts sharing and promote smart and green building and their citizens.
and specialists in the field to explore the latest trends. In this context, Msheireb Properties is ready Key topics under discussion include ‘Sustainable
trends and exchange ideas and experiences as we to share its expertise and knowledge in this field Cities’, ‘Reshaping Digital Public Services’, ‘Global
work to ensure accelerating digital transformation, with entities wishing to implement such amenities Economy and Digital Readiness’, and ‘Sport
achieving a knowledge-based economy, and in their future projects. This is part of our belief Events in a Connected Society’. Reem Mohamed
transitioning towards smart cities with the aim and contribution to our country’s progress and al-Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary of Digital
of improving the quality of life in Qatar in various prosperity. Our conference is a very important Society Development at the MCIT, said: “As cities
sectors. platform to exchange our vision and experience to across the world change rapidly, adopting smart
“I would like to thank Msheireb Properties and Fira define fruitful outcomes and results that enhance city solutions like those presented during Smart
de Barcelona for their co-operation and efforts. our capabilities and promote smartness and City Expo Doha will be crucial as we transform our
We look forward that Smart City Expo Doha will sustainability.” urban environments into sustainable spaces where
be beneficial for all participants, wishing for all Fira Barcelona International CEO Ricard Zapatero the living, working and staying experience of people
success towards a sustainable future that is Camps said, “On March 29, Doha and the Msheireb is enhanced by innovation.”
more economically, socially, and environmentally district will become the capital of innovative smart
prosperous.”

DIGITAL QATAR 7

QtfdroeFovamsecclcisoeempnstspaisdlratatsttwfaoarmtches

ABy Joseph Varghese In addition to the data being used by clinicians to Currently, Siha supports only wearables by Apple,
group of Qatar-based researchers have devise treatment plans and track lifestyle changes, it is Google, Fitbit, Huawei, and Withings. “These brands
developed an eHealth platform –System for also being used to build and train AI models. were chosen because of the extensive research
Integrated Lifestyle Health Analytics (Siha) - to Syed Hashim, a software engineer at QCRI and a they put in to ensure the accuracy of their features,
collect data from wearables for clinical use. This has member of the Siha development team, noted: “What and their constant efforts to further improve their
created a new pathways for clinicians to access data these models do is predictive analysis. For example, accuracy,” pointed out, Abbas.
for various medical purposes. With copyright in place, it the team is currently working on a model which will Siha is currently being tested in various clinical trials
is currently available for licensing. use wearable data and data from diabetic patient’s locally, including one for diabetes in adults at Hamad
“Lifestyle data captured by wearables can be continuous glucose monitor to predict the occurrence Medical Corporation and one for asthma in children at
particularly useful in chronic disease management, of low blood sugar before it happens and can send Sidra Medicine. According to Abbas, another advantage
but the challenge has been that clinicians don’t have a intelligent notifications to the user to take corrective of wearables is that they record data even when the
way to access it,” said Ummar Abbas, senior software actions.” user is healthy, “essentially building a personalised
engineer at Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI), physiological health model and baseline for each
part of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Hamad Bin Khalifa
University. Research team that has developed Siha. From left: Ummar Abbas, Syed Hashim, Wafa Syed and Muhammad Khan.
According to an article on the QF website, most
hospitals and clinics use Electronic Health Record (EHR) The scientist said that having access to data from individual”, which in turn makes it easier to spot
systems to store patient history. However, EHR-based wearables is particularly useful in managing conditions anomalies and know when something is unusual, such
systems are yet to integrate data from wearables. that require a lifestyle change, for example, diabetes or as the onset of an illness or worsening of a chronic
“It doesn’t happen anywhere in the world and the cardiovascular diseases. condition.
reason for that being most consumer-based wearable “Having access to wearable data will allow clinicians “We would like to see our system being integrated
devices are not US Food and Drug Administration to quantitatively track changes in the lifestyle of their into regular clinical EHR systems and be a part of
approved. This is slowly beginning to change though,” patients. It also adds a sense of accountability for the the regular hospital workflow in the country. When
he pointed out. patient because they know the doctor has access to a patient’s records were to be pulled up, in addition
“The first thing we need is consent from a user to their data and can tell whether the patient is adhering to the vitals taken at every doctor’s visit, you would
collect their data, and once we have that, the user is to recommendations,” he highlighted. also see the data from their wearable device,” Abbas,
instructed to download an app on their phone and added.
this app then fetches the data from their device and
sends it to our cloud, which is based in Qatar, where it
is stored in a secure encrypted database,” Abbas said.
He revealed the process isn’t as simple as it sounds
because of differences in the way different wearables
collect and store data.
“Some wearables upload the data to their cloud;
others store it on the device itself,” the researcher said.
Another challenge is each device has its own data
format and collection frequency, so the team’s
first challenge was harmonising data formats from
different brands and presenting a unified interface to
the clinicians.

8 DIGITAL QATAR



tQraatnasrfToormuraistimonwainwsafridvse digital

Qatar Tourism (QT) has received five awards
at the Horizon Interactive Awards 2021. The
awards are renowned in the field of interactive,
web design, and creative media, and recognise
compelling web sites and web site designs, videos,
and mobile applications.
QT won ‘Best in Show’, ‘Best Overall Mobile App’, ‘Best
in Category for Web Tows & Municipalities’, ‘Best
in Category for Web Travel & Tourism’, and ‘Gold in
Global Campaign for Social Media Strategy’.
Qatar aims to welcome more than six million visitors
per year by 2030 and further its tourism offerings in
line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030; as such, Qatar
Tourism has developed several digital transformation
initiatives to support the country’s ambitions.
The awards follow Qatar Tourism’s roll-out of its
extensive global multimedia marketing campaign in
2021, ‘Experience a World Beyond’, and the launch
of the Visit Qatar mobile application, which offers
travel personalisation and presents the destination
in innovative formats such as 360-degree videos, as
well as a data-driven, catalogued and inspirational
experience for its users.

10 DIGITAL QATAR

Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold
Trenkel, said: “We are delighted to have won five
awards at the Horizon Interactive Awards 2021,
including ‘Best in Show’, for our global campaign.
Our tourism strategy puts the visitors at the
heart of all new programmes and initiatives. We
are excited to introduce travellers to the best of
Middle Eastern hospitality and experience new and
undiscovered adventures. In Qatar, visitors truly
Experience a World Beyond.”
As the global tourism industry continues to rebuild
itself, Qatar Tourism has persevered in innovating
and creating diverse opportunities to advance the
national sector. Along with introducing the new
website, www.visitqatar.qa, in six languages, QT has
also launched its Service Excellence programme,
which is aimed at developing and enhancing
standardised best-in-class service across all visitor
touchpoints.

DIGITAL QATAR 11

EFROPCUwSitXh -AtIhCeap4athb-ielirtaieCsomposable

When we look back at 2022 after a decade, we would remember
it as the year that brought composable ERP systems to the
center stage. The receding pandemic, remote work, and digital
transformation are paving the way for the dominance of composable ERP
solutions. However, first, let’s understand what a composable ERP is?

What is a Composable ERP? termed as ‘nice to have.’ Today, AI is a necessity if you want to analyze big data,
obtain meaningful insights and build a robust decision support system.
Composable ERP is a set of different ERP applications, each best in its own Focus X is integrated with Focus Softnet’s AI platform AIFA (Artificially Intelligent
category, which are then composed and integrated to serve as a single Futuristic Applications). It equips you with AI and machine-learning driven
ERP platform. Composable ERP systems started to gain traction during the statistics, predictive analytics, and forecasting. AIFA offers 101 algorithms to suit
pandemic when many businesses realized that they were in dire need of even your most unique business requirements.
solutions that could be composed at different levels for different objectives. With AIFA, you could also generate reports or access instant data by simply
Speed and the capability to integrate with other solutions were the critical asking the AI to do so. The VUI (Voice User Interface) lets you communicate with
factors of paramount importance that led to the increased preference for these Focus X verbally so that you could always measure the pulse of your business.
ERP solutions.
Data-centric and User-friendly ERP

With data pouring in from different sources, it becomes critical to store and
analyze it effectively in order to generate actionable insights. Focus X’s built-
in Business Intelligence engine allows you to create comprehensive, data-rich
reports and conduct detailed analyses for informed and timely decisions.
Dedicated servers are used in the system to significantly minimize the time it
takes to generate and load reports.
The UI is designed to minimize user effort and help you get to the crux of the
matter without bothering about complex navigation. Focus X empowers users
with no-code customizations, which means you would not have to rely on the
backend and IT support to configure or personalize the ERP according to your
requirements.

Focus X - the 4th-era ERP from Focus Softnet Banking Integrations and Customer Portals

Launched in Dubai at GITEX 2021, the biggest tech event in the Middle East, Focus X is primed with banking integration capabilities for quick, secure, and
Focus X is Focus Softnet’s flagship ERP software. It is a culmination of our years timely payments. This feature allows you to automatically reconcile the bank
of R&D and collaborations with industry leaders. Focus X houses modern ERP statement with entries in the accounting ledger. The ERP also provides you with
tools along with time-tested digital solutions. dedicated portals to engage with customers and vendors, helping you transcend
We have put together a completely composable ERP solution that has 15 stand- geographical limitations.
alone modules that you could pick from. In other words, you are not obligated
to purchase the complete ERP suite; instead, you could cherry-pick the modules Focus Softnet - A Reliable ERP Vendor in Qatar
you require and integrate them with third-party applications. Focus X’s RESTful
APIs lets you integrate the ERP with various third-party solutions in finance, More than a million users rely on Focus Softnet’s ERP systems worldwide, to
payment gateways, telephony, e-commerce, Google Workspace, Office 365, manage and streamline their business operations. We have been a leading
social media as well as other ERP systems. enabler of digital transformation in Qatar, helping the SMEs to harness the
power of cutting edge AI enabled processes, to deliver value and customer
The AI Capabilities of Focus X delight.
Apart from our local presence, we have footprint in 17 countries across North
Artificial intelligence is no longer a fancy term or technology that could be America, India, the Middle East, and APAC. With a proven track record, we have
been assisting SMEs in more than fifteen industries and business verticals.
If you are facing complex business challenges and require tailored solutions
personalized to your needs, we would be happy to help you out!
Just drop us an email at [email protected], and our product experts would
get in touch with you.



National Digital Development
Programme Qatar’s National Skilling Program aims to train 50,000 people across all demographics by 2025 and
empower them with the advanced digital skills they need to drive innovation and contribute to boosting
the country’s regional and global competitiveness

The Ministry of Communications and Information Qatar’s National Skilling Program aims to train 50,000 digital transformation of government institutions and
Technology, in collaboration with Microsoft, has people across all demographics by 2025 and empower private sector companies in Qatar.
launched Qatar’s National Skilling Program to them with the advanced digital skills they need During the opening speech, Eng. Mashael Ali Al
accelerate sustainable human development and digital to drive innovation and contribute to boosting the Hammadi: Acting Assistant Undersecretary of
transformation in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. country’s regional and global competitiveness. Information Technology, Ministry of Communications
The launch coincided with the opening ceremony of The Digital Center of Excellence comes as part of and Information Technology said, “The human
the Digital Center of Excellence, the first of its kind the National Skilling Program in partnership with development pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030
in Qatar and the region and located in Msheireb Elev8 and expands the joint efforts of the Ministry motivates us on a daily basis to empower and equip
Downtown Doha. The event was held on 15 March of Communications and Information Technology the people of Qatar with the skills needed to develop
2022, under the auspices of His Excellency Mohammed and Microsoft to create a highly skilled workforce for the country into an advanced society capable of
bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and a rapidly growing, diversifying and technologically sustaining its development and providing a high
Information Technology, in his presence, as well as advanced economy in line with Qatar National Vision standard of living for its people.
high representation from ministers and government 2030. The Center is expected to play a key role in “The launch of the National Skilling Program and the
officials and private sector executives. building the talent pool that will help accelerate the opening of the Digital Center of Excellence will be key

A snapshot from the launch of the National Skilling Programme and the opening of the Digital Centre of Excellence at Msheireb Downtown Doha.

14 DIGITAL QATAR

to this effort; providing advanced knowledge of modern tech intensity in Qatar, and we look forward to building We take an innovative approach, applying elev8’s
technology and cloud computing that will empower all on this momentum with the launch of the Digital active learning methodology so that learners gain
demographics,” she added: Center of Excellence and other initiatives as part of the knowledge through hands-on experiences, and real-life
In a video message, Microsoft Executive Vice President National Skilling Program.” scenarios. From students, to professionals, to business
Jean-Philippe Courtois congratulated Qatar’s Ministry Nasser Matar Al Kuwari, CEO of Msheireb Properties, leaders, the Digital Centre of Excellence will empower
of Communications and Information Technology for expressed his pride to host the new Digital Center of people in Qatar with the skills needed in cutting-edge
their visionary leadership in digital transformation Excellence in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s technologies for a new digital world”.
and their commitment to human development first sustainable downtown regeneration project. “As The Digital Centre of Excellence aims to develop the
through skilling, in line with Qatar Vision 2030. “Digital a smart community built on intelligent, state-of-the- technical skills of students as well as those already in
transformation will drive new economic opportunities art technology systems, our goal has always been to the workforce. Through globally recognized, industry
for the people of Qatar – that’s why we must ensure establish Msheireb Downtown Doha as a center of endorsed role-based skilling tracks, the center
that everyone has access to the skills needed to innovation. Within this goal, we aim to become the offers individuals and organizations a professional
succeed in the digital era,” he said. home of various Information and Communications advantage by providing a range of trainings and
“The Digital Center of Excellence will play an important Technology (ICT) institutions that enhance the technical certifications that skill, upskill and reskill professionals,
role in this effort by empowering the nation’s digital capabilities of the people of Qatar and unlock the developers, business leaders and current students on
workforce to leverage the power of the cloud to potential of the next generation of digital pioneers,” he advanced technologies such Cloud computing Artificial
build a digital economy that is both advanced and said. Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
sustainable.” “Hosting the Digital Center of Excellence here in In cooperation with a number of leading international
In her speech, Lana Khalaf, General Manager of Msheireb Downtown Doha aligns strongly to this vision, universities such as MIT xPro, the European Institute
Microsoft Qatar, said the official launch of the National as the Center will equip not only the next generation of Business Administration (INSEAD) and HEC Paris in
Skilling Program and the launch of the Digital Center workforce, but also the current workforce with the Qatar, the Digital Center of Excellence will offer world-
of Excellence was a major milestone in the tech skills needed to establish Qatar as a knowledge and class training programs.
company’s ongoing partnership with the Ministry of innovation hub in line with National Vision 2030.” LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, is
Communications and Information Technology. “Our The Ministry of Communications and Information also partnering on this initiative to complement the
efforts represent our joint commitment to unlock Technology and Microsoft partnered with Elev8, on the learning journeys of participants through dedicated
opportunities for the people of Qatar in the digital era Digital Center of Excellence. workshops aimed at supporting and enabling them in
by developing the technical skills of students as well as In her speech, Maria Balbas, President of elev8 said, their current and future jobs.
those already in the workforce,” she said. “The partnership with Microsoft and the Ministry of The official launch of the National Skilling Program
Khalaf added that, as part of this partnership, more Communication and Information Technology marked and the opening of the Digital Center of Excellence
than 13,000 people in Qatar have been trained and a pivotal moment in Qatar’s digital transformation come ahead of the launch of a new Microsoft
certified across a variety of roles and audiences in journey to create a highly specialized workforce with Cloud datacenter region in Qatar, which will avail
just 18 months. These include students, teachers, IT the essential digital skills to successful in the fourth enterprise-grade cloud services, combined with data
professionals, developers and business leaders. “This is industrial revolution.” residency, security, and the broadest compliance for
an extremely significant achievement we have made She added, “elev8 supports a culture of lifelong organizations and companies in Qatar.
toward advancing skilling and fostering a culture of learners and fosters curiosity and passion for learning.
Source: news.microsoft.com

‘sQmaatarrt bsoelcuotmioenss’regional hub of
Assistant Undersecretary for Digital She pointed out that Qatar has an ambitious plan establishing many smart parking lots with the aim
Society Development at the Ministry of in the field of digital transformation, which began in of providing smooth transportation within the city
Communications and Information Technology 2017. A large part of this strategy was achieved with through an application on smart devices.
Reem al-Mansoori has confirmed that Qatar is the launch of the Smart Qatar Programme (Tasmu), Speaking about the Smart City Expo Doha 2022,
currently turning into a regional hub for smart including the Smart Qatar Platform which is the she said that Qatar is a regional forum for smart
solutions and digital transformation, with its hosting infrastructure and the heart of the program. The solutions with the participation of more than 70
exclusively in the region, the second edition of platform includes many services at the core of the international experts in the field of smart cities
Smart City Expo Doha 2022, which is an extension technological infrastructure, especially as it is a cloud from 60 countries, discussing over two days topics
of the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC) in computing technology.
Barcelona. In addition to the projects that have been related to smart cities, solutions,
completed in Qatar, such as the Virtual sustainability and the resilience
of life in those cities.

Health Consultation and the Digital Farmer
Community, the Digital Twins Qatar project,
one of the most important projects that
serve transportation and infrastructure,
was launched after the completion of
its pilot phase, al-Mansoori said,
explaining that this project is one
of the important services on the
Tasmu platform, and will bring great
benefit to several parties, such as
the transportation and infrastructure
sectors, especially that it embodies a
Reem-Al-Mansoori virtual world for their infrastructure

In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), al- before moving to a real world.
Mansoori said that the first edition of the Congress,
which was held in 2019, witnessed great success, It will also be in the service of the
considering that the current edition is a unique FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, as it creates a virtual
opportunity for gathering global experts in the field world that serves the planning of logistics operations
of smart solutions in the city of Msheireb in the heart before being tried on the ground.

of Doha, which embodies technologies and digital Al-Mansoori added that the Smart Parking Qatar
solutions, and makes it one of the distinctive smart project was also launched after the completion
cities around the world. of its pilot phase. The project will serve Qatar in

DIGITAL QATAR 15

Simplified Banking for Your Financial Needs
Keeping in line with bank’s digital strategy aimed
towards constantly providing better digital can benefit from easy registration in 3 simple steps,
solutions and services to customers, Doha Bank enhanced login security with One Time Password
has been focusing on improving the digital banking authentication or using their registered biometric
experience for their customers by improvising and identity, viewing of financial dashboard with analytics
adding new features to its digital touchpoints. and graphs, performing quick and hassle-free fund
Doha Bank was instantly responsive from the outset transfers and bill payments round the clock, initiate
of the pandemic outbreak and have taken quick easy loan postponements and card activations all now
proactive measures in keeping customers safe while through the click of a button. Doha Bank also provides
maintaining customer service levels. This has created customers access to their account statements, IBAN
an opportunity for the bank to speed up initiatives certificates and transaction receipts easily through its
pertaining to the digital transformation journey, such digital channels.
as encouraging customers to use alternative channels In January 2022, over 98% of fund transfers and 96%
as opposed to physical visits to branches. of card payments were initiated through Doha Bank’s
From performing fund transfers to utility bill payments Online and Mobile Banking channels. These digital
to updating customer information without the need of touchpoints have become the preferred backbone for
visiting a branch, Doha Bank has achieved a simplistic, customers’ daily financial needs.
user-friendly and convenient digital banking experience
over the past years which increased the trust of their Self Service Channels
valuable customers in meeting their financial needs by
using Doha Bank’s digital services as their preferred In line with Bank’s digital strategy, Doha Bank also
banking channel. focused on simplifying the cash & cheque transaction
Digital Banking has been the main transaction processing by diverting these transactions to Self
processing channel for Doha Bank customers. In Service channels both for Retail and Corporate Banking
January 2022, 89% of all comparable financial customers.
transactions were performed through Doha Bank’s
digital and self-service channels. Doha Bank will Doha Bank installed new Bulk Cash and Cheque
continue investing in adding new digital services for Deposit machines in selected branches and in addition,
individuals and corporate customers. launched the Interactive Teller Machine which is Doha
Bank’s new live teller based interactive technology
service. Customers can perform selected banking
transactions without the need to wait in long queues.

As a result of this strategy, in January 2022 nearly
90% of all cash transactions are performed through
Bank’s self-service channels.

Doha Pay Online and Mobile Banking E-Commerce & Payment Gateway

Over the past decade, Doha Bank’s portfolio has heavily Doha Bank offers a smooth, user-friendly Online and Doha Bank has been the pioneer in the market by
focused on customer-centric, digitally native, and Mobile Banking experience by providing customers with building strong relationships with Payment Service
financially inclusive products and services leveraging the complete control of their banking activities from Providers, FinTechs. The Bank have established a
fintech collaborations and innovations. Doha Bank’s the ease of their desktop or mobile devices. Customers strategic partnership ecosystem for e-commerce. The
launch of the Doha Pay Wallet in January 2021 was Bank actively engaged with and supported Qatar’s
a great success as seen through customer adoption FinTech ecosystem, providing payment gateway
rates and engagement in the local market. Doha Pay solutions to startups in this space.
was recognized as the Best Digital Payment App at the
World Business Outlook Awards 2021. With its powerful and robust payment gateway
infrastructure and by offering quick, efficient
Doha Bank has launched quick and safe peer-to-peer transaction processing, multiple security layers and
payment with Doha Pay digital wallet to provide retail flexible platform integration, Doha Bank has been
banking customers with a seamless payment option the choice of many businesses and startups who are
for retail purchases by scanning the QR code, instant looking for a partner to start or grow their e-commerce
fund transfers and easy card control management. businesses.
QMP (Qatar Mobile Payment System) has been added
to the available features on Doha Pay. QMP is a local Doha Bank is recognized as the fastest growing
interoperable wallet, which allows the users to perform Payment Gateway Services partner by Mastercard
QR code payments and person-to-person transfers for 2020/2021 to affirm the bank’s leading efforts in
across the QMP merchants and wallet users in Qatar. accelerating the adoption and use of digital payments
in the country.

Doha Bank is the first Bank in Qatar to provide a
marketplace for merchants who want to start their
online business. Bank’s e-commerce platform ‘Doha
Sooq’ offers space to merchants for an unlimited
product listing at zero investment. Doha Sooq
offers many products across multiple categories.
Established in 2007, Doha Sooq is the leading
e-commerce destination in the State of Qatar which
source, promote, fulfill and deliver products directly to
consumers.



Qatar’s strong HE the Minister pointed out that the ministry
continues to set goals and develop policies to
ICT sector promote the growth of the telecommunications
sector in the State, at the same time, it
Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai continues to develop and update strategies
has confirmed that the contribution of the telecommunications sector to the GDP of and policies aimed at providing innovative
Qatar is currently 1.9 percent. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the ‘Qatar IT services, and adopting the latest global
Roundtable’, organised by the Communications and Regulatory Authority (CRA), the Minister technology trends and innovations that will
said that this sector is one of the state’s priorities because of its impact on the rest of the support digital transformation, smart living,
sectors and the path of economic diversification. and diversification of the local economy.
The round table represented an important opportunity to communicate with the private sector He added that the goal through the strategies
based on knowing their views and needs to set future and strategic policies, he said. The and policies is to develop digital use cases for
ministry is working on developing an integrated plan with new goals to develop the field of smart Qatar and to re-design the Qatar Digital
communications and information technology (ICT), to be ready in the first quarter of 2023, he Government program to be more customer-
added. focused and complete transactions completely
Speaking on the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the minister said Qatar’s ICT infrastructure “is almost digitally.
ready” and that “work is currently underway on some recent services with the organisers.” HE the Minister noted that Qatar is moving
In his speech in the round table, HE the Minister said that the State of Qatar has so far forward with its ambitious national agenda,
established a strong telecommunications infrastructure, in which the quality of performance and through which the importance of the role of
network coverage comply with relevant global standards, which enabled all residents and local the information technology sector is becoming
companies to access high-speed mobile broadband a nd fiber-optic services, indicating that more and more prominent as an important
the support is provided to the vision and strategy of the telecommunications and information enabling factor for economic growth, social
technology sector, and its acceleration process due to the pandemic, and the upcoming World prosperity, and environmental sustainability,
Cup, but the ambition and capabilities exceed the horizon of these events. adding that the ministry seeks to benefit from
the achievements, capabilities, and resources
currently available to enhance Qatar’s
attractiveness and competitiveness at the
regional and global levels.

18 DIGITAL QATAR

The round table witnessed the presentation of a
set of development initiatives and success stories
of local companies. The CRA also provided an
overview of the information technology sector
and its current related initiatives, in addition to
discussing the prospects for the local market with
the participation of industry leaders in the State
of Qatar and participants from the academic
community.

HE the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohamed bin
Ali al-Mannai speaking at ‘Qatar IT Roundtable.’ PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil
“The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is
undertaking various government initiatives to support the information
technology sector to enable it to reach its full potential in the future,
making Qatar a regional digital center, and among these initiatives
are providing new job opportunities for the locals, stimulating local
and foreign investment, and developing the necessary digital skills by
providing education and training,” he said.
There is a rapid development of a comprehensive national roadmap for
the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence,
the Internet of Things, machine-to-machine technology, and blockchain
technology.
At the conclusion of his speech, HE the Minister of Communications
and Information Technology stressed the need for direct
communication with stakeholders, and with all actors in the
information technology ecosystem to achieve the aforementioned
goals and strategies.

DIGITAL QATAR 19

Artificial Intelligence can help
prepare, respond to future
pandemics: QCRI experts

By Joseph Varghese He said one area where AI can influence policies is the target protein, and interactions with the target
lockdowns, and whether there is a need for a full proteins of drug molecules to name a few. These tools
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a major role lockdown or which regions to implement restrictions. have shown a lot of potential to predict drug behaviour
to play in preparing for and responding to Because of the availability of specific data, AI has the by providing a better profile analysis, faster elimination
future pandemics, a team of top Qatar-based potential of designing more calibrated lockdowns. of candidate compounds, and selection of potential
researchers said. “QCRI’s research has shown that integrating traffic lead compounds along with estimating absorption,
information into epidemiological models results in a distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity drug
“The data generated better understanding of how the disease is likely to candidates,” he described.
in the past two years spread. As a specific example, when a virus-infected Dr Saad observed that AI can also assist in developing
can prove invaluable in patient lands at Hamad International Airport, QCRI’s a treatment for future pandemics. “Compared to a
terms of tackling the next work shows that different parts of Qatar will be traditional drug candidate discovery process that used
pandemic,” stated Dr impacted differently based on traffic mobility,” to take four to five years, AI can reduce this to less
Sanjay Chawla, research continued the researcher. than a year. In the case of future pandemics, drug
director of Qatar Centre repurposing has a major role to play in identifying
for Artificial Intelligence Covid has generated a massive cures and treatments for the disease in a short time,”
(QCAI) at Qatar Computing digital footprint and to prepare he pointed out.
Research Institute (QCRI), Dr Sanjay Chawla, research for the next pandemic AI The researcher also highlighted that AI can help
part of Hamad Bin Khalifa director of Qatar Centre for researchers can extract useful correlate disparate pieces of information.
University. Artificial Intelligence (QCAI) predictive and prescriptive “Machine learning techniques can help find connecting
QCRI, conducts innovative, at Qatar Computing Research patterns of response from this. patterns between the chemical structure of a drug and
multidisciplinary applied Institute (QCRI) the protein structure of a virus. This is possible because
According to another scientist, AI can also assist in there is a large repository of existing drugs and known
computing research that addresses national priorities predicting what drugs could have the potential to viruses available,” said Dr Saad.
and one of its main strengths is its expertise in AI. tackle the pandemic. Dr Ehsan Ullah from QCAI who led the project on
Dr Mohamad Saad, a research scientist in QCAI, stated drug repurposing noted: “The framework developed
Dr Chawla explained: “Since the outbreak of Covid-19, that AI and digital tools can be used to analyse drugs by QCRI independently tested a number of drugs for
large amounts of data have been generated, in at the molecular level and can offer advantages at treating Covid-19, many of which were in the pipeline
addition to statistics on transmission and infection different stages of drug development, such as drug for FDA approval. Two potential drugs found by QCRI’s
patterns. Many predictive and forecasting models have screening and drug designing. drug repurposing framework to be effective against
been developed since the start of the pandemic and AI “These tools can be used to predict physiochemical Covid-19 - Brilacidin1 and Ritonavir2 received approval
models can learn from all generated data to obtain a properties, bioactivities, toxicity, the structure of for treating Covid-19.”
better prediction of a future outbreak. This will enable “In my opinion, machine learning and AI have huge
decision-makers to prepare and intervene early in potential in the field of drug repurposing, not only for
the hope of limiting the impact of future viruses and pandemics but for personalised medicine as well as
pandemics.” existing diseases such as cancer,” he added.

Covid, noted Dr Chawla, has generated a massive
digital footprint and to prepare for the next pandemic
AI researchers can extract useful predictive and
prescriptive patterns of response from this.

20 DIGITAL QATAR

Redefining on demand car rentals

Selfdrive, is a smart mobility Super App, that Q: Tell us about the Artificial Intelligence you arrive at the airport. All you need is just come and show
allows users to rent a car on demand in a integration in your application. one of the booking documents, just sign up on paper and
simple, safe and flexible way A: The AI integration helps us you’re good to go. Thus, you can get into the car in less than
five minutes upon your arrival. We also offer ‘leased’ deals,
The app is designed on a proprietary tech foundation to profile customers based on which help companies to provide exclusive brand new cars
concept known as search–select–pay, which uses machine their specific requirements. For to their employees on a long-term basis.
learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to match users’ example, if you are a registered
profiles with the cars they wish to drive. It’s currently customer on our platform and Q: What potential does Qatar market hold for
available in the UAE, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain, and plans to have been driving a certain your app?
add further new markets in the near future. segment of a vehicle, say BMW A: Qatar plays a very important role in our expansion plan
– every time you return to the
application, the look and feel of after what we started from the UAE. What we are looking
the application would typically forward to is, of course, the FIFA World Cup this year.
change based on your client Simultaneously, we have a very high expectation beyond
profile. This helps us better world cup that we will be able to serve both local and expat
understand that this client is population, giving them the access to the cars direct from
within the luxury segment, and dealership via our super app. So we are very confident
so he doesn’t have to waste his about the success of our application in Qatar market.
time navigating through the
entire app. Q: Why do you think automotive apps are the
future of car rentals?
Soham Shah, CEO at Selfdrive, shares how apps are Q: What are some of the other highlights of A: I would like to counter this with a simple question, do
dominating the automotive space, allowing customers Selfdrive?
mobility at fingertips. A: It’s a Super App, which we go to a hotel to make a hotel reservation? We don’t.
Do we go to an airline company to make a flight booking?
Q: How was the idea of Selfdrive born? basically means that it is end-to- We don’t. We do it all online. Currently, car rental is the only
A: We are e-commerce portal established in 2017 allowing end integrated. The app offers segment that is left to be disrupted by a platform such
a 3 step convenient process of as ours. As a responsible company, we are pushing this
the customers to rent cars on demand for short and long- SEARCH- SELECT- PAY with a transition aggressively so that people can have this facility
term leases. The idea and process of Selfdrive actually flexibility to subscribe from 1 day at their fingertips.
started when we realized that the car manufacturers and to 36 months.
dealerships have a unique problem, where they have a lot For example, if you’re a tourist, Q: What are your goals for five years from
of unsold inventory standing. Then we came up with the you rent by the day via express now?
idea of having a platform that facilitates deals between booking or if you are probably A: Being a pioneer in the digital car rental industry in GCC,
consumers and gives them direct access to dealership an expat, you can subscribe by
vehicles. We offer an alternative solution to car ownership the month through microlease we are looking to lead the digital transition/transformation
to residents, expatriates, and international travelers. for 1 month to 12 months. in the Mobility space by offering seamless customer
We also have ‘airport experience and ease of access for mobility with flexibility
reservations’ where we will have redefining On Demand car Rentals across GCC, Europe,UK
everything ready for you when and Western Markets.

pQlMaItCfournmvetoilseanarbtilfeiscmiaalritnstpealcleigsence

FBy Joseph Varghese Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things QMIC officials at the press conference PICTURE: Thajudheen
or the smooth and successful (IoT) to deliver automated intelligence
conduct of mega sports and other to help solve problems across different
events in the country, the Qatar application domains.
Mobility Innovations Centre (QMIC) The platform uses AI and computer vision
has launched a homegrown platform, to provide continuous monitoring and
named “Falcon-I”. automated actions and alerts to optimise
“With Falcon-I, we can make any space business operations, enhance customer
a smart place using real time data experience, and deliver new services.
about the location,” chief executive and It can be used to provide real time
executive director Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya information of parking availability and
told a press conference recently at the traffic queues, among others, and can
Qmic headquarters in the Qatar Science alert the operators accordingly.
and Technology Park. This in turn can be accessed in real time
Successfully deployed during the by the end users through the Qmic’s
FIFA Arab Cup, Falcon-I uses Artificial Wain platform.

22 DIGITAL QATAR

“Falcon-I has been used to deliver two Falcon-I uses AI to detect and quantify with a comprehensive real-time view Falcon-I can use any video feed such as
main applications: Smart Intersections traffic pile-ups at and around road about parking status, and allowed them drones, CCTV (closed-circuit television)
and Parking Operations, while other intersections, and provides road to direct flow of vehicles into the proper networks, or others as sources of data
applications are at different stages of operators valuable insights into the lot or to open new lots. or even use its own dedicated network
development,” Dr Abu-Dayya said. traffic conditions at intersections to Dr Hamid Menouar, lead technology of cameras if needed.
“The scalable video analytics platform make fast and best decisions to improve manager of Falcon-I, said: “We are The data collected is processed and
can fully utilise our extensive technology traffic flow and reduce congestion. witnessing the start of the era of analysed by the AI-enabled platform to
expertise and product operational Traffic jams around road intersections automation, where resources and produce specialised smart applications
knowledge in IoT, AI, and data due to the occurrence of incidents inside assets will be managed with the finest that can be used easily by targeted
management,” he added. the intersection, or the Yellow Box, can optimisation.” customers.
“Realising smart spaces in different also be addressed through this platform. “AI will play an important role in Many other smart applications under
application domains is a major step Falcon-I intelligently and timely detects realising this, by replacing some of the “Falcon-I” will be ready for initial market
towards realising smart and safe living.” such incidents and alerts the road traffic manual steps in the operation process deployment in the coming few weeks
“We look forward to continue working operator for taking suitable action. and eliminating the unnecessary and months, such as pedestrian crossing
with existing and new partners to Efficient parking experience, especially operation and decision mistakes,” he spaces, which can serve an important
support all existing projects in Qatar during mega events, is another service said. “Falcon-I can make any space role in crowd management for mega
in 2022 and beyond,” Dr Abu-Dayya provided by the platform. smart and ready for the automation of events.
concluded. The Falcon-I Parking Monitoring System the both the monitoring and actions.” Moreover, the agility and versatility
Road traffic operators can use provides real time and accurate “Falcon-I can run on any video stream, of this platform, its ability to deploy
Falcon-I to efficiently manage mobility information about parking occupancy making it an ideal cost-effective solution intelligence at the edge or in the
operations at road intersections. levels and availability trends across to augment CCTV infrastructures with cloud, and its ability to integrate with
Under this, it has different solutions for many large outdoor parking lots that intelligence,” Dr Menouar continued. “We existing camera data infrastructure will
a number of operational issues, such accommodate thousands of cars. will continue developing the solution significantly broaden the addressable
as Real Time Queue Length Monitoring, Based on a real deployment in support further, to support more application market of Falcon-I.
Yellow Box Monitoring, and Smart of the Arab Cup event, this intelligent domains, and help our partners optimise
Parking Monitoring. parking system provided the organisers their operations.”

DIGITAL QATAR 23





Workshop focuses on

wdiagteirtaselcitsoartion of

Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute Speakers discussed various avenues to make the on water resources.Topics covered during the workshop
(QEERI), part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, water sector more efficient - both at a national and sessions were the circular water economy, the role of
held a workshop to explore how digitalisation a global level - particularly in the face of increasing various stakeholders in the advanced management of
is transforming Qatar’s water sector and to identify global pressures. These include climate change, the distribution network, artificial intelligence-based
opportunities for trans-sector collaborations. evolving environmental legislation, and more pressure solutions, data sharing, and many others.
The ‘Water Sector Digitalisation’ workshop, which Muneera Rashid D H al-Dosari, from the Drainage
saw participation from international and Qatari Networks Operations and Maintenance Department,
stakeholders, was organised by QEERI’s Water Centre. Ashghal, talked about the smart systems, solutions
The event highlighted how water sector digitalisation and latest digital technologies used to control and
- which focuses on integrating the spectrum of monitor Ashghal’s assets.
digital solutions and technologies into Qatar’s Dr Jenny Lawler, senior research director, Water
water management system - is increasingly a core Centre, QEERI, said: “As we transition towards building
component for development as the nation moves a smart and sustainable water sector, big data and
towards building smart cities for the future. improved processes can have a huge impact on
Representatives from key entities, including Kahramaa, efficiency.”
Ashghal, Suez Water Technologies and Solutions, Christian Pérez Hernández, technical manager at Idrica,
Qatar Computing Research Institute, Carnegie Mellon added: “One of the key challenges we will face includes
University in Qatar, Acciona, and Idrica shared expertise resistance to change, and through knowledge-sharing,
at the event. such events help us all understand the best way

26 DIGITAL QATAR

QsoonElEarRorIbppoartneteseelccnhltensaownloiongrgyksfhoor p

A specialised workshop – “Photovoltaic (PV) Robot Cleaning” – organised by the Qatar
Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University
(HBKU), drew more than 100 international delegates from academia and industry.
The virtual workshop aimed to share knowledge on addressing the challenges facing the
solar PV industry, particularly those related to soiling and cleaning.
The workshop highlighted that despite abundant potential for solar PV power plants in
desert environments, their maximum efficiency is hampered by environmental conditions.
The combination of humidity and dust – including soiling and cementing if not cleaned
regularly, pose a major challenge for PV performance, decreasing the efficiency of the solar
panels.

“As we transition towards building a smart and In water-scarce desert regions, automated cleaning robots are widely employed for cleaning
sustainable water sector, big data and improved solar panels and facades. To advance understanding of the technology, this workshop
processes can have a huge impact on efficiency.” explored industry adoption, technology trends, impacts on modules, testing standards, and
– Dr Jenny Lawler, senior research director, future research needs.
Senior research director of the QEERI’s Energy Centre, Dr Veronica Bermudez, said: “The
Water Centre, QEERI fact that we had delegates participating from different parts of the world, as far afi eld as
California and China, and despite the differences in time zones, is recognition of the QEERI’s
forward. Together, we can address questions like what is going to workshop as a key knowledge-sharing platform on a global scale.”
happen, and why it is important, and how data can be converted “Delegates represented PV module and robot cleaning manufacturers, PV project developers,
into actionable information, thus combining our efforts to build a and research institutes,” she said. The latest innovations in robotic module cleaning, including
sustainable future.” economical and practical considerations, were discussed as a way to improve the return on
investment for large power plants in desert environments.
QEERI’s executive director, Dr Marc Vermeersch, commented: “To Experts addressed the next generation of robots for trackers, effective approaches to ensure
provide tangible solutions to Qatar’s grand challenges related to high cleaning efficiency, standardisation efforts, including abrasion testing and soiling
water, it is absolutely crucial that we bring all the players to the management cost optimisation in PV plants. Outcomes offered a clear understanding of
table, and understand what each of us can contribute. Moving lessons learned from case studies in Qatar, South Africa, and the US, which can be exported
forward into the digital era, we need to develop solutions to to other solar markets such as Australia and China. Carla Dawson, co-founder of smart PV
emerging challenges that we have not faced before, and this cleaning company Relysym, who presented from the US, was positive about the event:
requires collaboration, coordination, and a unified approach.” “The workshop covered the entire spectrum of solar panel cleaning topics and there should
be more editions in the future.” “The QEERI brought together the most knowledgeable and
experienced people from research, industry, and academia from well-known brands like
Novasource, Nomadd, Eccopia, and Repso, to leading academic and research institutions like
Fraunhofer, NREL, and more,” she said. “It has most certainly been a great experience.”
QEERI executive director Dr Marc Vermeersch said: “Knowledge-sharing and constant learning
is at the crux of a good research team.”
“Individually, there is only so much we can do but through collaboration – sharing knowledge
and resources – we can unify our eff orts in tackling common challenges,” he said.
“The issues facing the PV industry in arid regions are similar – be it here in Qatar, or Arizona,
or Australia – and having experts come together to discuss these challenges and how they
can be overcome, is a collective positive step for the PV sector.”
The QEERI conducts extensive research in solar energy across its various world-class facilities,
including the 35,000sq m Outdoor Test Facility, and its recently commissioned PV Reliability
Labs.

DIGITAL QATAR 27

Qitnoaftsraaersc’tusrruwecostrutladreb-cleelan, slaosbnilnegsn-toteevrcamhtigosrtnoarwtuthps
A startup funded by Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), part of Qatar
Foundation, Research, Development and Innovation (QF RDI), has lauded The three co-founders of Obrizum
QSTP’s Tech Venture Fund (TVF) programme in creating an ‘edtech’ hub in Dr Chibeza Agley, co-founder and CEO of OBRIZUM, said: “The capital raised, with
Qatar. support from TVF, helped OBRIZUM to form major strategic partnerships and
In 2015, the three co-founders of OBRIZUM, a cloud-based adaptive e-learning strengthen its commercial pipeline.”
platform, were working in deep technologies, such as stem cells, biophysics, and Agley added: “The market is accepting of big ideas and there is a strong interest
genetic engineering as PhD students and fellows at the University of Cambridge. in working with cutting-edge technology in edtech and other areas. Qatar has a
By working together as technology professionals and data scientists, the co- world-class innovation infrastructure in place to enable technology startups to
founders witnessed a shift in how people use knowledge and collect information. secure stable, long-term growth. Another great thing is its global reach, as so many
OBRIZUM is a WISE Accelerator alumni and awardee of the TVF. international organisations are choosing to establish offices in Doha.”
WISE Edtech Accelerator manager Victoria Basma said, “The WISE Edtech Accelerator QSTP’s TVF is a strategic venture capital fund that supports local innovative startups
has aimed to support innovation building within education, focusing on technology and attracts international ones looking to scale in the region and further afield.
that is able to help evolve the way we teach and learn.
“A key partner for the WISE Edtech Accelerator has therefore been QSTP’s
Tech Venture Fund, not just as potential funders, but more importantly as local
stakeholders who, alongside WISE, are able to drive Qatar toward becoming the
region’s first edtech hub.”
Basma said, “First as an alumni member of our 2017 edtech accelerator and now as
active contributors to our programme, we are so pleased to have the OBRIZUM team
as knowledge partners and members of our global edtech network.”
For OBRIZUM, the education industry is a sector that has remained largely
undisrupted for so long, and in which there is plenty of room to add value through
smart inventions and technology which make learning more engaging, effective,
efficient, and enjoyable.
Edtech and advanced learning technologies can provide new ways of engaging with
the ever-increasing body of global knowledge, and the pandemic has only catalysed
this digital revolution and a surge in demand for online learning.

28 DIGITAL QATAR

HBKU, Iberdrola collaborate on
smart grid cybersecurity
Aiming to advance high-impact innovation Professor of Cybersecurity at CSE, will extend his
in sustainable energy, Hamad Bin Khalifa expertise to the joint project team of research the Spain-based Iberdrola Group created the Global
University (HBKU) will collaborate with Iberdrola scientists and smart grid engineers. Expected Smart Grid Hub, a global centre for innovation in smart
Innovation Middle East (ME) on research and outcomes include peer reviewed scientific publications, grids, which combines its technological capacity with
development in the area of cybersecurity for the smart jointly owned patent applications and, ideally, that of experts around the world.
grid. Under a new collaborative agreement, HBKU subsequent commercialisation. Lopez, said: “Our agreement with HBKU reflects our
and Iberdrola Innovation ME will work to enhance the CSE founding dean Dr Mounir Hamdi, Qatar commitment to Qatar’s research, development, and
technology being used in smart grid field deployments Foundation’s Research, Development and Innovation innovation system and boosting knowledge in specific
in the region. (QF-RDI) vice president and HBKU’s vice president areas of science and energy. Our collaboration will
Leveraging respective expertise in cybersecurity for research Dr Richard O’Kennedy, with senior ensure that our joint efforts are at the forefront of
and innovative energy solutions, joint efforts will officials from the Office of Industry Development and solving Qatar’s energy and environmental challenges
encompass research studies, intellectual property, Knowledge Transfer (IDTK), part of QF-RDI, attended by advancing solutions for its smart grid capabilities.”
and commercial collaboration on smart grid the signing ceremony with Iberdrola Innovation ME
telecommunications and security mechanisms. QSTP managing director Santiago Banales Lopez,
Smart grids are regarded as a “technological leap” technical director Javier Hernandez Fernandez, and
to advance new models of electricity consumption other officials.
and decarbonisation. With the ability to operate with Dr Hamdi said: “The new agreement is based on our
energy from renewable resources and incorporate long-standing relationship with Iberdrola, which is
digital technology, the huge volumes of data focused on knowledge-driven innovation. We foresee
generated by smart grids require effective security this co-operation actively contributing to Qatar’s
solutions. HBKU, through its College of Science and energy transformation with a very positive impact on
Engineering (CSE), and Iberdrola Innovation ME, smart, sustainable cities initiatives.”
which is based in Qatar Science and Technology Park Iberdrola Innovation ME was established at QSTP in
(QSTP), will both avail faculty, staff, and resources 2016, with the Iberdrola Technology Center undertaking
for a research project focused on security techniques cutting-edge projects in smart grids, renewable
for power line communications. Dr Roberto Di Pietro, integration, and energy management. In October 2021,

DIGITAL QATAR 29

Ali Bin Ali Technology Solutions and
Balador sign strategic partnership

Ali Bin Ali Technology Solutions The signing of the agreement Mr. Mohamed Atout, in the present platform, Balador, to change the
(ABATS) and Balador have signed marked a commitment, from both of Mr. Mohamed Al Ebrik, the COO of way the service is organized and
a strategic partnership aimed at parties, to cooperate in the field Ali Bin Ali Holding’s ICT Division. delivered while managing the
activating the Balador electronic of information technology and This agreement came in line with customer experience through
platform for all public and private digital transformation through the Qatar National Vision 2030 for aboloshing the queue completely
sector organisations in Qatar. introduction of the Balador platform economic transormation and the and making ait a thing of the past.
Balador’s agreement with ABATS in Qatar. creation of a sustainable knowledge- As one of the leader It systems
will elevate the customer flow The memorandum of understanding based economy. It is also supporting integrators in Qatar with long-
experience to new heights, making was signed on the sidelines of Smart the strategic national objectives of standing market experience, ABATS
the customer journey completely City Expo Doha 2022, which was delivering integrated IT services and is the perfect partner for launching
digital through this exclusive held on March 29 and 30, by the solutions for smart cities consistent the solution in the region. Using a
representation in Qatar by Ali Bin Ali General Manager of ABATS, Mr. Rami with the vision and directives of His winning combination of superior
Technology Solutions. Ammari, and the CEO of Balador, Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad IT solutions delivered by quality
Balador is an intelligent cloud-based Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar. professionals, ABATS provides a
customer flow management tool Balador is a leader in digital unique blend of products and service
that takes queuing from physical to technology solutions, applications offerings to support both the private
virtual. It simpaly revolutionizes and customer services, with and public sectors.
the way businesses provide their extensive experience in the Middle
services and how they manage East gained over more than 15 years
their customers’ journey by makimg in the field of digital transformation.
queues a thing of the past. This unique experience helped it
The multi-tenant platform lists conceive the ide of the electronic
service providers from both the
public and private sectors, along with
the branch names, services provided,
locations, working hours and
estimated waiting times based on
proximity and availability. This allows
the end user to book a ticket for
the needed service or appointment
without having to call, wait or queue
for it; as well as rate thir experience
through star ratings and or text/voice
messages.
All this translates into better time
management for the public, avoiding
crowding at business locations, and
reducing pressure on customer-
facing employees, thus increasing
efficiency, productivity and customer
satisfaction.

Ali Bin Ali Technology Solutions
Partners with NOODOE EV

Ali Bin Ali Technology Solutions (ABATS) has signed a strategic
partnership with Noodoe EV, a leader in EV charging technology. “We
are proud, excited, and at the same time humble to partner with
Noodoe EV, helping each other to set the bar for EV charging solutions
in Qatar. Joining with Noodoe expertise, along with their EV charging
stations, will help accelerate the EV adoption in Qatar,” the company
said in a statement.
Noodoe EV OS is one of the most advanced cloud-based operating
platforms today. It is the electric vehicle charging network’s “central
brain.” It can run charging points at multiple locations and automate
the entire operation of an EV charging network. 
Noodoe EV Company offers a software platform that allows you
to manage your Smart Charger devices network and allows you
to manage all your financial revenue and electricity consumption
calculations. The company also provides a variety of Smart Chargers
(AC & DC) for various types of vehicles.

The potential of Qatar’s
e-commerce sector
The prospect for exponential growth in respondents bought a product or a service
Qatar’s promising e-commerce industry online in 2017.
is to be expected, a survey conducted by The MoTC said the survey results indicate
the Ministry of Transport and Communications an enormous growth potential for Qatar’s
(MoTC) has said. e-commerce industry, and presents a clear

Even as early as 2019, the MoTC had conducted business opportunity for local entrepreneurs
a survey to gain insights on key trends related and businesses to engage and invest in the
to e-commerce in the country, according to the sector.

ministry’s e-commerce portal. Also, the survey showed that people shop

The survey captured how often Qatari residents online for convenience and efficiency with 34%
make online purchases, and revealed their of e-shoppers saying that they use e-commerce
experiences with online shopping in Qatar. to save time. “This emphasises how important
The data extracted from the survey is now product availability and delivery time are in the
driving the MoTC’s new initiatives to promote e-Commerce experience,” the survey said.

e-commerce in Qatar, the portal stated. Most survey respondents said they are willing

The results showed that as much as 60% to buy airline tickets, hotels reservations, and
of Qatar consumers are willing to use taxi/limousine services from local e-merchants,
e-commerce, while another 44% said they which means that Qatar’s services industry
are willing to shop online; 15% of the survey “has the most potential to thrive online.”

32 DIGITAL QATAR

“The least sought-after category is food and exchange policy, allowing customers to try before
groceries, which is possibly due to the proximity they buy,” the survey recommended.
of supermarkets and the slower-paced lifestyle According to the survey, the most important
compared to countries in Europe,” it explained. factors for online shoppers are easy payment and
On e-commerce for small and medium-sized price transparency, which underlines the crucial
enterprises (SMEs), the MoTC noted that 50% of need for user-friendly and secure payment
the survey respondents could not identify a local gateways.
e-commerce shop. “E-merchants can easily achieve this by
“To improve their market share (which is currently providing full transparency in all charges
only 12%), Qatar’s e-commerce businesses must applied to customers, and by partnering
focus on marketing and awareness of their with a reputable e-Commerce payment
platforms,” the survey pointed out. gateway service provider,” the survey
“SMEs should drive social media campaigns said.
and make sure they are advertising their online The survey stated that user experience,
presence across all media. SMEs can also try which plays a major role in a customer’s
taking part in temporary exhibitions like pop-up purchase journey, is another area that
stores in malls to improve their brand awareness.” “needs further development in Qatar.”
The survey stressed that in order to further It noted that 72% of survey respondents
increase the share of online shoppers in Qatar, said the user experience on
online businesses should pay special attention to international e-Commerce
mirroring the ‘see-and-buy’ behaviour, where the websites “is better than on local
customer tries the product or service before they e-commerce websites.”
pay for it. “To attract a wider pool of loyal
“The inability to do so online is another reason e-shoppers, Qatari e-merchants
why many Qatari consumers are reluctant to can consult with top digital
adopt e-commerce. However, local e-merchants agencies to improve and optimise
could partner with a service delivery provider, the user experience on their
for example, to offer a quick and free return and platform,” the survey further explained.

eEfo-xcrpoeemnrttmreeprrceengeruorwstihn fQaavtoaur,rasabyles The steady growth of the e-commerce industry, particularly in the Middle East
and Africa (MEA) region, bodes well for entrepreneurs in Qatar, which boasts of
state-of-the-art digital infrastructure and facilities.
E-commerce expert Harish Nair made the statement during a webinar titled
‘Activating your Online Store with MCIT e-commerce Guidelines’ organised by
the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT).
Nair explained that the annual growth rate of the e-commerce industry in the
Mena region stood between “25% and 30%.”
Citing multiple markets, such as the US, Europe, China, India, and other large
economies, Nair said the percentage growth of e-commerce in these areas is
“somewhere around 10% to 15% annually.”
“Whereas if you look at the Middle East and Africa, it’s about 25% to 30%,
which is really great. The last two years have been a great kick for the
e-commerce industry to pick up and be at this level; it’s expected to grow at
the same level for the next few years,” he further explained.
In terms of global growth, Nair said the e-commerce industry is “about 18%.” In
the past decade from 2010 to 2022, Nair said the global e-commerce industry
grew from “$500bn” to “a little over $4tn.” He pointed out that this is “quite
promising” to any entrepreneur who would like to start an e-commerce
business.
“On the other hand, if you look at the local market, we have high Internet
penetration; we have 5G, a large part of Qatar’s population has a smartphone
and access to social media through which a lot of promotion is done for buying
and selling different products.
“Various kinds of business models are, likewise, being introduced through social
media, so the future is promising for e-commerce,” said Nair, who lauded MCIT
for staging webinars to help entrepreneurs and SMEs grow their businesses.
Nair said e-commerce “is here to stay” and that it will be the platform for
many people and businesses to promote their products and services. He said
millennials and high-income earners are taking the lead in terms of online
shopping, and that consumers are switching brands “at unprecedented rates.”
Another reason why people look to e-commerce, according to Nair, is that
consumers’ buying behaviour has changed in response to health and safety
concerns following the Covid-19 pandemic. He added: “Consumer shopping
intent is focused on essentials. In the past, people used to go to shops; they
look at and buy multiple things. But now, when they go online, they are very
specific as to what they want. They just search for and compare a particular
item, and then close out on their sale. It’s very precise, which also means that
customers are much more serious about their shopping intent and experience.”
During the virtual session, Nair also discussed topics like government
processes/business registration, the MCIT’s ‘Theqa Trust Mark’, e-commerce
guidelines in Qatar, and how to create your own e-commerce store.

DIGITAL QATAR 33

How Qatar is future-proofing its
digital transformation
TBy Liam Zhao, CEO of Huawei Gulf North World Cup later this year. More than $5.5 billion has help bolster the country’s digital economy and further
he rapid digitization that followed the COVID-19 been invested in creating a model mixed-used district accelerate Vision 2030.
pandemic demonstrated why future-proofing at Msheireb Downtown Doha, considered the world’s Another key priority for future-proofing Qatar’s
our digital infrastructure is critical. A robust ICT first downtown regeneration project that leverages digital transformation is nurturing its talent pool.
foundation ensured no service interruption in Qatar connectivity and smart technology as the foundation Local universities continue to produce talented ICT
despite the massive demand for digital services. for the economy, lifestyle, and environment. Meanwhile, practitioners that have supported the country’s economic
Lusail City is a $45 billion smart city built upon the latest progress. However, the demand for ICT solutions is
Liam Zhao, CEO of Huawei Gulf North wired and wireless communication networks to offer accelerating. Therefore, we must continue investing in
These digital trends are now only expected to accelerate advanced services to citizens, businesses, and visitors. talent development to ensure that organizations have
in years to come. According to IDC, digital transformation Investment and development are directed towards access to the qualified personnel they need to pursue
investments in the META region will double across the infrastructure, intelligent buildings, green energy and their digital transformation goals. Huawei will continue
2020-2025 period, reaching $58 billion in 2025. This will connected mobility. The commercial sector will benefit doing its part with our initiatives such as the ICT
account for 40% of all ICT investments made that year. from new revenue generation models while residents Competition, Seeds for the Future and other initiatives.
ICT spending in Qatar is poised to touch $9 billion in the enjoy safe and pleasant neighbourhoods. Finally, it’s important to stress the importance of
next two years, according to GlobalData. There’s a strong need to build resilient networks to green ICT, especially as Qatar aim to reduce 25% of its
Qatar has prioritized spending toward Smart City power this digital era envisioned by Qatar’s Vision greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Leveraging digital
projects as the country prepares to host the FIFA 2030. Part of the strategy adopted by the Ministry technologies like AI, cloud, and big data will make an
of Communications & Information Technology is incremental impact in reducing emissions across all
34 DIGITAL QATAR guaranteeing the installation of a national, affordable, industries in Qatar. To this end, low-carbon electricity
high-speed broadband network. Huawei’s NetX2025 production and electric energy consumption are a must
whitepaper outlines the need to accommodate demand to achieve carbon neutrality. According to the World
in a world where bandwidth for both consumers and Economic Forum, ICT will help reduce industrial emissions
enterprises will be measured in gigabits. Service by 12.1 billion tons globally by 2030. This is ten times
providers should also accommodate massive automation greater than the emissions by the ICT industry itself.
driven by AI while catering to multi-cloud environments Qatar is in the middle of a technological renaissance
for customers. Operators should also aim to evolve that offers a strong foundation for socio-economic
the customer experience and pursue energy-efficient growth. It was ranked as one of the most competitive
operating models. This entails a shift in focus of planning Arab economies from 2017 to 2020 by the Arab Monetary
from “traffic-centric” to “service-centric”. Fund. The World Bank Report placed Qatar in Group A
A resilient digital network is a secure one, so as network for two indices – Public Service Delivery Index (PSDI)
providers lay down this digital infrastructure, they must and GovTech Enablers Index (GTEI). Therefore, Qatar is
ensure it is built on a solid cybersecurity foundation. on track to become a global leader in the digital era
Although Qatar has done remarkably well to mitigate by investing in green ICT, network modernization, skills
cybercrime, we must not let our guard down. The country development, and empowering the talent ecosystem. In
is in the global spotlight due to events such as the FIFA fact, considering Qatar’s remarkable digital journey and
World Cup Qatar 2022, making it a potential target for achievements to date, it will be exciting to watch the
cybercrime. But technology companies working together digital records the country will set in the future.
with the government, service providers, and industry can