Celebrating Leadership: A Fond Farewell to Mr. Abdulrahman Ahmad Al-Shaibi

A Legacy of Dedication and Excellence

On February 17, 2026, Doha, Qatar witnessed a momentous occasion as H.E. Minister Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and CEO of QatarEnergy, hosted a heartfelt farewell reception for Mr. Abdulrahman Ahmad Al-Shaibi. As the retiring Executive Vice President for Finance and Planning, Mr. Al-Shaibi leaves behind an impressive legacy that spans 37 years of unwavering dedication to QatarEnergy. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of gratitude and nostalgia as colleagues and friends gathered to honor his remarkable journey.

During the reception, His Excellency Minister Al-Kaabi took the opportunity to express profound appreciation for Mr. Al-Shaibi's exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the company. With sincerity, he remarked, “I would like to express my deep appreciation and recognition of Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Shaibi, who was an example to follow in leadership and dedication throughout his career.” This heartfelt acknowledgment resonated with attendees, highlighting the profound impact Mr. Al-Shaibi had on the organization and its growth. 

A Journey Through Time: From Trainee to Executive

Mr. Al-Shaibi's journey with QatarEnergy began in 1989 as a development trainee, where he showcased exceptional talent as a financial analyst. Over the years, he climbed the ranks through various key positions such as Corporate Financial Analyst and Project Finance Manager. Each role he undertook contributed to his deep understanding of the company's financial landscape, ultimately leading to his appointment as Executive Vice President for Finance and Planning in November 2014. His strategic vision and commitment to excellence significantly shaped the financial planning and operations of QatarEnergy.

As Mr. Al-Shaibi embarks on a new chapter in his life, he leaves behind a legacy that inspires future leaders. Succeeding him is Mr. Mohammed Khalid Al-Ghanim, who possesses extensive experience in corporate finance and strategic planning. Mr. Al-Ghanim’s leadership roles within QatarEnergy ensure a seamless transition, as he carries forward the values and vision established by Mr. Al-Shaibi. The farewell reception not only celebrated a distinguished career but also marked a pivotal moment in QatarEnergy's ongoing journey toward excellence. The team’s camaraderie and shared respect for Mr. Al-Shaibi's contributions were palpable, making it a memorable occasion for all involved.

Bridging Horizons: How HKU and Qatar Foundation Are Shaping Global Education

Where Doha Meets Hong Kong – A Partnership for the Future

On a bright and promising day in **Doha, Qatar**, a historic moment unfolded. The **University of Hong Kong (HKU)** and the **Academic Bridge Program (ABP)** of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development formalised a groundbreaking **Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)**. Signed on 18 January, this agreement is far more than just ink on paper; it represents a vivid bridge connecting diverse cultures, academic excellence, and a shared vision for global learning.  

With this MoU, both institutions have agreed to open doors for enhanced student pathways, international academic recognition, faculty exchanges, and vibrant joint initiatives. The signing ceremony brought together key academic leaders, including **Professor Jay Siegel**, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) at HKU, and **Ms. Abeer Al-Khalifa**, President of Pre-University Education at Qatar Foundation. They stood side by side, symbolising an alliance that promises to elevate higher education across continents.  

Building Opportunities That Transform Lives

This collaboration is more than a formal agreement—it’s an engine for opportunity. Under the MoU, HKU will now recognise the ABP Foundation Year Program for admission into its undergraduate degrees. This recognition includes credit transfer possibilities, making academic mobility between Qatar and Hong Kong smoother, faster, and more accessible.  

Moreover, planned activities such as student exchanges, faculty workshops, and mentorship schemes will enrich learning experiences for participants. By integrating resources and expertise, both institutions aim to ignite innovation and empower the next generation of leaders. As a result, this partnership is expected to produce long-lasting benefits—not only advancing academics but also strengthening cultural ties between two dynamic regions.  

Why This Matters

The collaboration between HKU and Qatar Foundation marks a thrilling new chapter in global education. It sends a clear message: education knows no borders when institutions share a commitment to excellence and innovation. By blending diverse perspectives from **Doha, Qatar** and Hong Kong, this partnership sets the stage for future projects that will inspire students, educators, and communities far beyond these cities.  

Shimmering Horizons: Qatar's Digital Blueprint for the Sustainable Urban Future

The Echo of Innovation and Resilience

The 4th Smart City Expo Doha closed on November 26, culminating two days of intense discussions dedicated to transforming cities in the Middle East into sustainable and truly livable environments. Organized by Fira de Barcelona and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of Qatar, this leading event on the urban future in the MENA region successfully brought together international minds and groundbreaking concepts, setting a high benchmark for regional development.

Under the potent slogan, "Beyond connectivity: a digital solutions pathway to a smarter, thriving future," the Expo focused sharply on the undeniable impact of AI across vital fields like mobility, design, and urban management. Consequently, the event featured over 30 international experts, showcasing four standout keynotes. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from Kent Larson (MIT) on tech-driven urban design and Jesús Serrano on AI innovation. Furthermore, H.E. Reem Al Mansoori detailed Qatar's urban transformation strategy, followed by an inspiring message on resilience and inclusion delivered by FIFA ambassador Ghanim Al-Muftah.

Qatar’s Living Digital Vision and the Road Ahead

The very celebration of this local edition of SCE Doha highlights Qatar's palpable leadership in smart and sustainable urban development across the MENA region. This prominent role already translates the country's digital vision into tangible reality through major national projects. For example, Lusail City, one of the most advanced smart city developments in the region, integrates real-time data systems, intelligent mobility solutions, and connected urban services that decisively enhance quality of life and operational efficiency.

In parallel, Msheireb Downtown Doha stands as the first fully built smart and sustainable city district in Qatar, combining digital innovation, energy efficiency, and human-centred urban design. These vibrant, living examples demonstrate precisely how Qatar is shaping future-ready urban environments, progressing toward the ambitions outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the nation's Digital Agenda 2030. Looking forward, the journey continues, as the next Smart City Expo Doha is now preparing for its fifth edition, scheduled for April 28–29, 2026. Before that date, the global significance of the event was recently affirmed, as this year's Smart City Expo Doha was featured at MWC25 Doha, which brought together nearly 300 thought leaders and over 250 exhibitors.