AGP Executive Report

Gulf Security Realignment: After US-Iran strikes paused by July 25, Gulf states are recalculating fallout risks as Kuwait ratifies a Pakistan defence deal and Qatar signals deeper security cooperation with Pakistan. Regional Defence Tech: The US and UAE are setting up an AI-focused bilateral military crew to speed up joint AI integration for regional monitoring. Qatar Precision Medicine: Sidra Medicine administered Qatar’s first Itvisma gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy, marking a major step in rare-disease care. Health Research in MENA: Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar mapped major research gaps on falls among older adults across MENA, urging better standardized surveillance. Digital Trust in Commerce: Visa’s Qatar findings warn that social commerce is rising fast, while scams on social platforms are a growing fraud risk—pushing for stronger authentication and real-time protection. Energy Policy: Qatar’s wider region is watching energy security moves as Pakistan approved oil refining policy amendments to modernise refineries and boost cleaner fuel output. STEM for Kids: Museum of Islamic Art and Lekhwiya launch a summer camp mixing art, science, innovation, and AI workshops for ages 9–13.

Gene Therapy Breakthrough in Qatar: Sidra Medicine administered Qatar’s first Itvisma (onasemnogene abeparvovec) one-time gene replacement therapy for a 13-year-old with spinal muscular atrophy, making Qatar the third country worldwide to deliver the treatment. Public Health Research: Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) published a BMJ Global Health study mapping major gaps in fall-related research across older adults in the MENA region, calling for better standardized surveillance. Qatar Foundation Science: Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) researchers identified a new long non-coding RNA molecule (PINC) that may suppress certain breast cancers, pointing to new treatment approaches. AI for Religious Guidance: Qatar’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs is expanding AI use via its Islamweb platform to search, summarize and connect Shariah rulings, supporting wider access to trusted guidance. Social Research Funding: DAAM signed a funding deal with the Qatar Social Work Foundation to launch the Social Researcher Award, backing evidence-based studies from students to professionals. Regional Tech & Industry: Multiverse Computing secured up to $570m to build more efficient AI models, while China’s CXMT surged after a major Shanghai IPO—both underscoring fast-moving global AI and chip competition.

Diabetes tech from Qatar University: Qatar University unveiled GlucoWatch, an AI wearable that estimates blood glucose without finger pricks, using heart-rate and blood-pressure signals plus user data; the project has a published US patent application and previously won a gold medal at the International Invention Fair in Kuwait. Startup building in Qatar: QSTP and the Young Entrepreneurs Club launched the QSTP x YEC Summer Bootcamp 2026 for 124 participants, guiding teams from problem framing to business models, investor readiness, and pitching. Maritime training upgrade: UDST recognised 12 graduates of an IMO-aligned STCW instructor training course, strengthening Qatar’s capacity for international-standard maritime education. Public health push: Qatar marked World Hepatitis Day 2026 with a renewed awareness campaign focused on prevention, vaccination, early diagnosis and treatment, stressing that many cases show no symptoms for years. Social research funding: DAAM signed an agreement with the Qatar Social Work Foundation to support the Social Researcher Award, aiming to grow evidence-based research for social services. Fintech regulation momentum: Qatar Central Bank frameworks are reshaping the local fintech scene, encouraging more homegrown ventures in payments, digital banking and even AI-enabled services. Energy and compliance watch: The EU clarified how methane rules will work for imports, aiming to keep energy supply steady while tightening environmental obligations. Regional diplomacy: Qatar is reported to be mediating efforts to bring the US and Iran back to negotiations, as drone and armed attacks keep tensions high.

Smart Healthcare in Qatar: Qatar University says it’s developing GlucoWatch, an AI wearable that estimates blood glucose from physiological signals (heart rate, blood pressure and demographics) to reduce finger-prick testing, with a published US patent application. Digital Payments Push: Qatar-based SkipCash secured strategic investment from Qatar International Islamic Bank to expand its merchant and QR payment infrastructure across Qatar and the GCC. Fintech + Retail Checkout: PayLater CEO says Qatari retailers now want instalments integrated fast—via POS, dynamic QR, payment links, or embedded e-commerce—shifting BNPL from “add-on” to core checkout. Smart Transport Training: UDST completed IMO-STCW instructor training for maritime professionals, strengthening Qatar’s capacity for international-standard safety and education. Aviation Security Tech: US CBP, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior and Qatar Airways rolled out International Remote Baggage Screening for Doha–JFK, sending X-ray images to US officers before arrival to speed processing. Energy & Geopolitics: With US-Iran strikes paused, oil slid sharply, but Houthi attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities keep the Strait of Hormuz risk front and centre. Global Tech Markets: China’s CXMT surged in a major Shanghai IPO, highlighting continued push for AI-focused memory chips despite US export controls.

Cybersecurity for youth: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency launched the third Cyber Security Youth Camp 2026, welcoming about 400 students (13–17) at Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys, with a new option for remote participation via an e-learning platform. Conservation update: Qatar’s mangroves cover about 14 sq km, with more than 7 sq km inside Al Thakhira Nature Reserve, as the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change marks International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem and calls for public protection from damage and pollution. Premium banking in Msheireb: QNB opened a dedicated QNB First premium branch in Msheireb Downtown Doha, designed around a “smart city” feel with digitally seamless, personalised private banking. Digital learning & health: Qatar Cancer Society rolled out a month-long blood cancer awareness campaign focused on early detection, while Hamad Medical Corporation reported major reductions in clinic and MRI waiting times through process improvements. Regional tech & policy: ESCWA’s executive secretary said Qatar is a key partner for sustainable development, highlighting cooperation on social protection, digital transformation, innovation and SDGs. Global backdrop: US and Iran paused attacks amid ceasefire talks, but shipping and energy-market concerns remain tied to Strait of Hormuz risks.

Cybersecurity Education: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) launched the Cyber Security Youth Camp 2026, a three-week programme with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and the Ministry of Sports and Youth, training 400 students (ages 13–17) at Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys through lectures and hands-on workshops across six pillars including fundamentals, networking, ethical hacking, web security, systems and cyber defense. STEM & Engineering Pipeline: Ashghal and the Qatar Scientific Club wrapped up the 5th “Future Engineer” programme (July 4–23), with 40 secondary students building engineering prototypes after site visits and technical workshops. Health Awareness Tech: Qatar Cancer Society launched a month-long blood cancer awareness campaign focused on early detection, covering leukaemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma and urging people to seek medical advice for persistent symptoms. Digital Citizenship for Kids: Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education highlighted its Digital Citizenship courses for Grade 5 and Grade 8 students, aiming to build safe, responsible online behaviour and cybersecurity awareness during summer learning. Smart Infrastructure & Resources: Kahramaa said Tarsheed is driving progress in cutting electricity and water use via public awareness, smart tech and efficient products. Payments & Fintech: QIIB announced the QR1m winner of its Joud savings account grand prize draw for June 2026. Research Access: Qatar National Library reported 1.25m visits in 2025 and highlighted its Qatar Research Collection with nearly 70,000 Qatar-focused records and open-access support.

Qatar-UN Sustainable Tech: ESCWA’s Dr. Rania Al Mashat says Qatar is a key partner for sustainable development, calling for deeper ESCWA-Qatar cooperation on social protection, digital transformation, innovation and SDGs. Border Tech & Security: US CBP, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior and Qatar Airways launch International Remote Baggage Screening for the Doha–JFK route, using pre-departure imaging sent to CBP officers for remote review. Engineering Talent Pipeline: Ashghal and the Qatar Scientific Club wrap the 5th “Future Engineer” programme, training 40 secondary students with site visits and hands-on workshops. STEM for Kids: Museum of Islamic Art announces Summer Camp 2026 (Aug 2–13) with Lekhwiya, mixing arts, sciences, leadership and sports, plus workshops from Qatar Science Club. Research Access Boost: Qatar National Library reports 1.25mn visits in 2025 and highlights its Qatar Research Collection (nearly 70,000 records) and open-access growth. Health Awareness: Qatar Cancer Society runs a month-long blood cancer awareness drive focused on early detection and improved outcomes. Qatar-Portugal Business Links: Qatar Chamber signs an MoU with Portugal’s Industrial Association to expand trade, investment, and company-branch cooperation. Aviation & Tech News: Boeing ends 777-300ER production after 20 years, shifting focus to the 777X line. Global Security Tech: Reports say Trump switched aircraft after a “credible threat” tied to Iranian proxy forces, involving Qatar’s gifted Boeing 747-8. Digital Payments Angle: Coverage also points to Qatar’s cashless push and digital queue improvements saving time for residents.

Qatar–Portugal Business Ties: Qatar Chamber signed an MoU with the Portuguese Industrial Association (AIP-CCI) to boost investment, trade delegations, market research, and knowledge exchange, including support for company branches in both countries. Sustainable Development & Digital Transformation: ESCWA’s executive secretary praised Qatar as a key partner for advancing sustainable development, highlighting cooperation areas like social protection, digital transformation, innovation, and SDG progress. Smart Transport Collaboration: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and the Qatar Society of Engineers agreed an MoU to strengthen R&D in smart transportation, road safety, and related laws, with training and upskilling for mobility innovation. Cashless Push in Qatar: Qatar is accelerating toward a cashless economy as digital payments surge, with QCB data showing rising transaction volumes and values across 2026. Aviation Security Tech: US CBP, Qatar’s Ministry of the Interior, Qatar Airways and JFK’s New Terminal One launched International Remote Baggage Screening for the Doha–JFK route, using pre-departure X-ray images for remote review. Global Tech & Policy: The EU approved Paramount–Warner’s mega merger with conditions, while the US said it will investigate EU trade practices over fines on major US tech firms.

Qatar Cashless Push: Qatar’s digital payments keep accelerating, with QCB data showing 73.5m transactions worth QR111.85bn in April (+29% volume, +77% value) and 81.1m transactions worth QR95.8bn in May (+32% annually), while card payments still dominate (~89% of transactions). Qatar Fintech Confidence: SkipCash’s strategic investment partnership with Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB) signals growing local fintech momentum and deeper bank-tech collaboration for Qatar’s next-gen payments infrastructure. Smart Transport MoU: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and QSE signed an MoU to advance smart transportation consultations, adding to the country’s push for tech-enabled mobility. Interactive Tech in Doha: ColorVerse at Katara Cultural Village is drawing families with indoor, projection-based interactive storytelling and digital challenges running until Sept 15. Defense Tech Collaboration: Ukraine and Raytheon agreed to start joint Patriot missile production to ease interceptor shortages, aiming to reduce supply bottlenecks. AI Policy Tension: The US tells Canada it can pursue sovereign AI, but not in ways that undermine US tech leadership—pointing to export controls and alignment on China. EU Big Tech Watch: The European Commission found TikTok failed to protect minors’ privacy, warning of possible non-compliance action and fines. Global Security Shock: Iran says it hit US assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, while the US continues strikes across Iran amid rising Red Sea shipping disruption and oil-price pressure.

Energy Security & Drones: Drone warfare is reshaping how oil and LNG move, with strikes on refineries, tankers and even Qatar’s LNG hub raising the risk of supply shocks and keeping crude near $100. Qatar Transport R&D: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and the Qatar Society of Engineers signed an MoU to boost smart transportation research, road safety studies, and training for mobility innovation. Telecom Cybersecurity: Qatar’s NCSA released Part Two of a telecom security white paper with GSMA, pushing an asset-based approach to protect 5G networks. Workforce Skills: Qatar’s Future Skills Office (CGB) is rolling out programs to help the national workforce adapt to a faster, tech-driven economy. Biodiversity Diplomacy: Qatar joined CITES Scientific Committee meetings in Geneva to support endangered-species protection and strengthen scientific listings. Regional Energy Routes: Gulf states are accelerating pipeline plans to bypass the Strait of Hormuz as Red Sea risks grow. India-Qatar Ties: Qatar’s outgoing Indian ambassador highlighted the partnership’s progress across politics, economy and energy as he completes his Doha tenure. World Tech/Policy Watch: EU regulators found TikTok violated rules on minors’ privacy, with potential fines up to 6% of revenue.

Qatar in Biodiversity Talks: Qatar, via the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, joined CITES Scientific Committee meetings in Geneva to discuss endangered-species listings and how to strengthen scientific support for conservation. Nuclear Skills Push: Qatar’s Education ministry launched a fully funded Government Nuclear Engineering scholarship for 2026–27, with registration open until Aug 15 through the Government Scholarship Platform. Smart Mobility MoU: The Ministry of Transport and the Qatar Society of Engineers signed an MoU to boost R&D in smart transportation, road safety, and training for mobility innovation. Digital Services at Home: Qatar’s shift to online and appointment-based services is cutting healthcare and government/banking waiting times, including faster MRI access and shorter clinic waits. AI & Cybersecurity Caution: A cybersecurity executive warned that rapid AI adoption without safeguards can increase risks like AI-assisted phishing and automated attacks—urging safer implementation. Regional Energy Pressure: With Houthis striking Red Sea tankers and Brent topping $100, Gulf states are accelerating alternative oil routes and pipeline plans. Education & Leadership: Qatar Leadership Centre runs its Future Leaders and Changemakers Summer Camp in Singapore, training 28 students on public policy, innovation, and Qatar–ASEAN cooperation.

Quantum & AI for research: Qedma has integrated its error mitigation software with Quantinuum’s quantum platform, aiming to boost accuracy for larger quantum circuits. Qatar AI literacy: The Qatar Cultural Center for the Blind ran a seminar on “Artificial Intelligence: Between Assistance and Reliance,” stressing responsible use and avoiding sensitive personal data. Nuclear education push: Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education opened applications for a Government Overseas Scholarship Nuclear Engineering Programme (2026–2027). Workforce safety tech: Qatar’s MoL and Snoonu teamed up to protect delivery riders from heat stress, pausing motorcycle deliveries during peak hours and shifting to air-conditioned cars. Energy logistics under pressure: QatarEnergy extended LNG force majeure for Asian buyers and kept some LNG tankers on lease through mid-October as regional tensions persist. Regional infrastructure shift: Gulf states are accelerating pipeline plans to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz, while disruptions around Red Sea routes keep pressure on shipping and prices. Banking rebrand: Doha Bank unveiled a new corporate identity as part of its transformation toward innovation and better customer experience. Healthcare training: Aspetar’s Surgery Observer Programme drew 69 international observers, highlighting Qatar’s growing role in orthopaedic and sports medicine training.

Qatar AI & inclusion: Qatar Cultural Center for the Blind held a seminar, “Artificial Intelligence: Between Assistance and Reliance,” urging people to use AI responsibly and avoid over-reliance, especially around personal data. Cyber resilience: A Qatar IT leader says cybersecurity must become a shared national responsibility as AI and digital services expand, warning that digital trust is the biggest risk. Healthcare innovation: Aspetar’s Surgery Observer Programme hosted 69 international observers, highlighting Doha’s growing role in advanced orthopaedic and sports medicine training. Medical devices & events: Al Waab Medical Centre joined QMED 2026 as a bronze sponsor, backing Qatar’s medical technology showcase (Oct 14–16). Research & awards: Awqaf announced winners of the Sheikh Ali Bin Abdullah Al-Thani Endowment Award, including international winners and a local Qatari researcher. Quantum leadership: Quantinuum appointed a new Chief Legal Officer and Chief People Officer as it scales quantum computing use cases. Finance transformation: QNB reported disciplined Q2 execution across innovation and sustainability, while Doha Bank launched a new corporate identity reflecting its transformation.

AI & Accessibility in Qatar: The Qatar Cultural Center for the Blind ran a seminar, “Artificial Intelligence: Between Assistance and Reliance,” stressing AI should support people—not replace them—and urging safe use that avoids sharing personal data. Sustainability Spotlight: Global Sustainability Awards 2026 shortlisted finalists were revealed, highlighting measurable decarbonisation, nature restoration, and growing use of AI and tech in sustainability strategies. Qatar Weekend Tech-Adjacent Fun: The ColorVerse Experience at Katara (immersive, story-driven, family-friendly) and the Qatar Toy Festival (large-scale interactive zones) are set for the July 23–25 weekend. Nuclear Policy Shockwaves: Reports say the US approved a long-term Saudi civilian nuclear framework that could enable uranium enrichment after a joint study—sparking fresh proliferation concerns amid the Iran conflict. Regional Security & Energy Risk: Trump renewed threats over Strait of Hormuz attacks as oil prices jumped above $95, while Houthi pressure in the Red Sea is already rerouting Saudi crude shipments. Qatar’s Digital/AI Ecosystem: Dell Technologies and Scale AI signed an MoU to support Qatar’s AI capabilities, while Qatar’s QCB granted its first license to an insurance price comparison platform.

Nuclear Policy: Trump has approved a U.S.-Saudi nuclear agreement that could let Saudi Arabia enrich uranium for its civilian program, raising fresh nonproliferation concerns. Qatar Health Research: Sidra Medicine published new precision nutrition studies linking maternal diet in pregnancy to fetal development and longer-term child health via epigenetic changes. AI for Autism Care: Qatar University researchers unveiled “SafeSignals,” an AI-enabled device to detect stress and challenging behaviours in children with autism using physiological indicators. Local Culture & Heritage Science: Qatar National Library and the Institute of Arabic Manuscripts discussed joint research and technical cooperation to preserve Arabic manuscript heritage. Digital Banking Awards: QNB Group won four Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2026, including best digital bank and ESG. Maritime Security Training: Qatar’s Ministry of Interior took part in the graduation of officer cadets from the Polish Naval Academy with maritime sciences degrees. Energy Logistics Watch: Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains sharply reduced, with transits far below pre-conflict levels and fewer LNG movements.

Qatar National Library: Amiri Decision No. 32 of 2026 reconstituted the Qatar National Library Board of Trustees, chaired by Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani, with Sheikha Hind’s vice-chair and members including Qatar University’s research and innovation leadership and a MoCIT representative. Digital Health: Hamad Medical Corp rolled out digital transformation for lab diagnostics, linking instruments to electronic records to speed results and improve accuracy, supporting Qatar’s push for data-driven healthcare. FinTech: Qatar Central Bank granted its first licence for an insurance policy price comparison website to Ammen, bringing more choice and competition to the insurance market. AI & Partnerships: Dell Technologies and Scale AI signed an MoU to support Qatar’s AI capabilities, while Sidra Medicine is using AI to speed pediatric X-ray interpretation and reduce ED waiting times. Policy & Governance: Shura Council committees highlighted their role in legislative review and oversight during the 54th annual session. Open Calls: Tasweer Photo Festival Qatar opened applications for its 2026-27 residency for Qatari-based photographers, running at Bayt Al Wakrah. Regional Tech/Skills: Coursera reports Saudi is embedding AI literacy into national strategy, framing it as a workforce pillar for Vision 2030. Energy & Trade Disruption: Strait of Hormuz shipping fell sharply amid renewed US-Iran tensions, with transits down week-on-week.