Analysis

Investment by Qatari entities shaping global impact in sports, entertainment
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With Qatar’s increased global prominence following its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, domestic media companies are continuing to expand their international footprint. In the past, these entities have spearheaded the acquisition of renowned international media brands. Notably, Al Jazeera Media Network, a pioneering Qatari media outlet and the first independent news channel in the Arab world,…

Analysis

Higher education developments to boost patent filing
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In terms of the filing of international patents, 2022 was a record-breaking year, with higher education playinga significant role in driving innovation and expanding international practices regarding intellectual property (IP). The UNWorld Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) reported in its 2023 Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) review that in 2022, 278,100 international patents were…

Analysis

Qatar attracting international talent to support research initiatives
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The Third National Development Strategy 2024-30 (NDS-3) underlines the significance of innovation as a key driver for sustainable growth. The NDS-3 aims to bolster Qatar’s innovation ecosystem and amplify its role in propelling productivity and supporting economic expansion. By 2030 the NDS-3 aims to double gross domestic expenditure on research and development (R&D) as a percentage of GDP, with…

Analysis

Health technology closing health care gap in emerging markets
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After a surge in uptake during the Covid-19 pandemic, the telehealth industry is courting new investment to further innovation and increase access to care in emerging markets. Digital health companies raised a record $57.2bn in global venture capital funding in 2021, a 79% jump from the $32bn raised in 2020, with 30% of the total directed towards telehealth. An estimated $140bn in private sector finance…

Analysis

Qatar’s tourism diversification for sustainable growth
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Tourism plays a crucial role in Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy 2024-30 (NDS-3), which serves as the primary framework for achieving the goals set out in Qatar National Vision 2030. The NDS-3 focuses on seven strategic outcomes: sustainable economic growth, fiscal sustainability, a future-ready workforce, social cohesion, enhanced quality of life, environmental sustainability and government…

Analysis

Gulf partnerships promote region as travel destination
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In 2022 the Middle East witnessed the sharpest relative increase in international arrivals of any region in the world, solidifying its rebound from the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic and further raising its profile as an increasingly attractive destination for inbound tourism. According to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), in 2022 international arrivals in the Middle East recovered to…

Analysis

Governments collaborating to counter cyberthreats
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The conflict in Ukraine has caused disruption across the global economy, prompting an increase in the number and sophistication of cyberattacks. According to a poll of 800 chief audit executives conducted by the UK-based Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors, 77% of respondents thought the conflict in Ukraine had elevated cybersecurity and data-security risks. Senior cybersecurity analysts have…

Analysis

Qatar's development blueprint focus on technological advancement
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Qatar is in the initial phases of its National Development Strategy 2024-30 (NDS-3) to transform the country into an advanced economy capable of sustainable development. The plan prioritises competitiveness, innovation and institutional excellence, while balancing sustainable growth and social cohesion. The NDS-3 outlines seven strategic national outcomes that represent the main strategic priorities…