Crowned in Creativity: Doha’s Stars of Science Season 17 Shines Bright

In the heart of **Doha, Qatar**, a wave of inspiration swept through the Arab world as *Season 17 of Qatar Foundation's (QF) Stars of Science* concluded on an electrifying high note. As the Arab region’s leading edutainment show, it once again proved its power to fuel young minds with the spirit of innovation, entrepreneurship, and curiosity.  

After months of intense challenges, idea refinement, and prototype creation, the competition reached its apex with the crowning of Laid Dardabou from Algeria. His groundbreaking invention, *ViDa* — a smartwatch-integrated system that estimates Vitamin D levels and provides health insights to help prevent mental health symptoms — captured hearts and minds alike. This seamless blend of biotechnology and emotional well-being impressed the judges and reminded the world that science can be both compassionate and accessible.  

Turning Passion into Impact: Innovators Who Inspire

Upon receiving the coveted title of **Top Arab Innovator**, Dardabou shared an emotional reflection, explaining that his work began as a deeply personal mission. “This win is not the end — it's a beginning,” he said, reminding audiences that empathy and technology can unite to save lives. His journey illustrates how determination and purpose can transform an idea into a life-changing solution.  

However, the finale was more than just one victory. Second place went to the talented Razan Salem Bahabri from Saudi Arabia, whose project *Teleab* has the potential to revolutionize physical rehabilitation. This wearable gaming system turns recovery into an engaging, interactive experience, empowering patients while giving medical professionals real-time data. By merging fun with function, Bahabri has crafted a vision of healthcare that is not only efficient but also uplifting.  

A Future Fueled by Innovation

As **Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP)** President Rama Chakaki expressed during the ceremony, each finalist demonstrated the incredible potential of purpose-driven science. Their achievements stand as beacons for the next generation, encouraging others to dream, create, and dare to innovate.  

If you missed the grand finale, don't worry — you can relive every unforgettable moment of *Stars of Science Season 17* on the show’s official YouTube channel. Experience the passion, brainpower, and breakthroughs that have left an indelible mark on the world of innovation. 

From Doha to the wider Arab world, Season 17 shows us that creativity, compassion, and cutting-edge science can spark solutions powerful enough to change lives.

Shaping the Future: QNB Group’s Bold Leap into Egypt’s Digital Banking Era

A Landmark Step for Financial Innovation

DOHA, Qatar – QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, has achieved a significant milestone with the license approval for its digital-first banking entity, **ezbank**, from the Central Bank of Egypt. This strategic move represents much more than an operational expansion; it signals a bold commitment to shaping the future of Egypt’s banking landscape.  

By securing this license, QNB Group aligns itself with the Central Bank of Egypt’s vision for financial inclusion and digital transformation, which also supports the government’s broader economic development strategy. This is not merely about opening another bank; it is about creating a financial institution designed to function in harmony with the digital lives of modern consumers. Consequently, **ezbank** is poised to redefine accessibility to banking services in Egypt, fostering inclusion and innovation at every stage.  

Harnessing Technology for Seamless Service**  

At its core, **ezbank** will merge advanced digital technology with internationally recognized best practices to offer customers efficient and intuitive financial solutions. Mobile-first platforms will ensure that every transaction is swift and user-friendly, while AI-driven tools and intelligent risk management will guarantee both security and convenience. As a result, customers will experience a new standard of banking designed around their needs and lifestyles.  

Furthermore, this venture solidifies Egypt’s growing role as a hub for technological innovation within the region. With QNB Group’s presence already established in over 28 countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa, and backed by over 31,000 professionals, the launch of **ezbank** marks a strategic intersection of global expertise and local opportunity. Through this, QNB aims to not only contribute to Egypt’s digital economy but also inspire similar transformations across the Middle East and Africa.  

With **ezbank**, QNB Group is not simply keeping pace with modern banking trends—it is actively setting them. This initiative reflects a future where financial services are more inclusive, efficient, and tailored to the digital age.  

Beneath the Sands: How GeoMap™ Middle East Unveils a Geothermal Renaissance

Revealing the Gulf’s Geothermal Promise

Project InnerSpace today announced the launch of GeoMap™ Middle East, a groundbreaking geothermal exploration tool that reveals vast geothermal potential in the Gulf region for cooling, long-duration energy storage, and round-the-clock power applications.

Geothermal energy, the heat naturally occurring in the Earth's crust, is an abundant and ubiquitous source of energy. Advances in drilling and subsurface technologies are making geothermal affordable and scalable in regions once thought inaccessible. In the Middle East, that progress is especially important, since geothermal can deliver the constant, low emissions energy needed to meet rising demand for cooling in some of the world's hottest, fastest-growing cities.

Technical Insights and Regional Opportunities

In the Middle East, geothermal can also complement record-breaking solar investments by providing long-duration energy storage. Importantly, the Middle East is uniquely positioned to scale geothermal quickly, given the region's decades of drilling expertise and robust oil and gas industry presence, providing the know-how, workforce, and assets needed for rapid deployment.

`GeoMap™` evaluates geothermal development potential by integrating millions of subsurface data points into an interactive, freely accessible platform. Initial findings in the Gulf region identify:

Urban cooling applications: In Gulf states, cooling drives up to 70% of peak electricity demand. Geothermal district cooling could slash that peak, easing grid strain in cities like Riyadh, Dubai, and Doha. GeoMap™ shows ~14,000 GW of cooling potential, with Iran, Egypt, Iraq, and Turkey providing two-thirds of capacity; Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar also hold major opportunities.

Subsurface storage opportunities: Geological formations across Iraq, Syria, the Gulf states, northern Saudi Arabia, and Yemen could serve as "earth batteries," storing excess solar and wind energy as heat in deep sedimentary basins and releasing it on demand to balance the growth of intermittent renewables.

High-potential geothermal zones: The Red Sea Rift (western Saudi Arabia/northern Yemen) holds potential for gigawatt-scale power production and desalination; eastern Turkey and northern Iran also have strong power potential. Both areas hold opportunities for geothermal powered data centers.

Strategic and Economic Implications

“One of the most exciting things about the geothermal development potential in the Gulf region is the fact that the resource sits below some of the world's most capable and resourced oil and gas companies - the very entities with the required expertise to develop these resources, and the ability to deliver the speed and scale necessary to make geothermal relevant for the world,” said Jamie Beard, Executive Director of Project InnerSpace.

`GeoMap™ Middle East` builds on previous releases of GeoMap™ in Africa, North America, India, Asia, and Oceania, advancing a global effort to map geothermal opportunities and make next-generation geothermal data freely accessible. Consequently, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders can now evaluate concrete projects, accelerate pilot deployments, and leverage existing drilling capacity to transform regional energy systems.

Foundations of Progress: Ashghal’s QR 12 Billion Vision for Qatar’s Future

The Public Works Authority’s recent announcement marks a decisive moment in Qatar’s infrastructural development. Moreover, these initiatives promise to strengthen road and drainage networks, upgrade public buildings, and elevate quality of life across the nation. Consequently, stakeholders and residents alike can anticipate measurable improvements in safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ announces the award of 13 new contracts worth 12 billion Qatari riyals, which aim to enhance the infrastructure of road and drainage networks and public buildings and improve the quality of life in Qatar.

Strategic Rationale and Governance

H.E. Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer emphasized that Ashghal's award of new contracts worth QR 12 billion represents a strategic step that enhances the sustainability and integration of infrastructure, consolidates Qatar's leadership in this field, and supports the national economy within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030. Furthermore, the statement underscores alignment with long-term national objectives and economic resilience.

Eng. Khalid Saif Al Khayareen reiterated that the authority continues to implement its strategic plan to develop infrastructure services and public buildings in the country in response to the requirements of population growth and urban expansion, and in line with the state's aspirations and future vision. He explained that the new projects that were awarded include 6 key projects, including the construction and development of road networks and several educational, health, and service buildings in coordination with the relevant authorities in the country.

Operational Excellence and Technological Innovation

Eng. Ahmed Al Ahmad described how operation and maintenance contracts will improve management of road and drainage networks and ensure the sustainability of infrastructure assets, thereby improving service quality. He added that projects will employ high standards of quality and safety, and integrate cutting-edge technologies in operation and maintenance processes.

The contracts include infrastructure projects to develop road networks across the country, operation and maintenance of strategic roads in North and South Qatar, and adoption of intelligent transportation systems. In addition, the projects will deploy AI-based digital management platforms, self-driving vehicles for asset surveys, and laser detection systems to proactively address road defects. Thus, Ashghal positions Qatar to benefit from extended asset life, enhanced efficiency, and stronger resilience to climate and demographic pressures.

Focused Projects: Buildings, Drainage, and Highways

The program also advances drainage network operation and maintenance, scheduled to commence in Q1 2026, with emphasis on robots, drones, automation, digital twins, and enhanced EAMS integrated with BIM to predict faults and prioritize maintenance. Simultaneously, Ashghal will undertake four building projects, including three new schools, safety upgrades in 40 schools, refurbishment of the Psychiatric Hospital of Hamad Medical Corporation, and renovation of Al Zubara Horse Breeding Farm.

Additionally, highway projects such as the Al Mazrooah–Al Attoriya link and Al Karaana Road Development will expand connectivity, support local economies, and prepare zones for future urban development. Collectively, these measures demonstrate Ashghal’s comprehensive approach to infrastructure that balances innovation, safety, and sustainability while advancing Qatar National Vision 2030.

Forging the Future: A Strategic Partnership in Digital Infrastructure

In a significant development for the digital landscape, **DOHA, Qatar** - Qatar Investment Authority ("QIA") and Blue Owl Capital Inc. ("Blue Owl") have forged a Strategic Partnership Agreement aimed at creating a comprehensive digital infrastructure platform. This initiative seeks to accelerate global compute capabilities, particularly for leading hyperscalers, amidst the rapid evolution of cloud computing and AI technologies. With both organizations bringing unique strengths to the table, this partnership has the potential to reshape the data infrastructure sector on a global scale.

QIA's contribution is particularly noteworthy, as it plans to launch a digital infrastructure platform backed by an impressive initial investment exceeding $3 billion in data center assets. This foundation will not only enhance the platform’s immediate capabilities but is also poised for significant growth over time. Moreover, QIA’s extensive experience in infrastructure and technology sectors, coupled with its global investment perspective, aligns harmoniously with Blue Owl's strategy of permanent capital. As Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, aptly stated, "This partnership aligns with QIA's strategy to engage with leading global firms that are addressing the world's growing demand for data centers."

A Unified Vision for Global Data Connectivity

The partnership between QIA and Blue Owl signifies a unified vision for addressing the escalating demand for data storage and computational resources. As the digital landscape continues to expand, the need for robust data connectivity becomes increasingly critical. Doug Ostrover and Marc Lipschultz, Co-CEOs of Blue Owl, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “We are honored to partner with Qatar Investment Authority in advancing the global data center ecosystem.” Their commitment to innovation and resilient infrastructure aligns seamlessly with QIA's objectives, paving the way for a transformative impact on the industry.

Blue Owl's Digital Infrastructure strategy plays a vital role within its Real Assets platform, focusing exclusively on investing in mission-critical assets that support cloud and AI innovation. As of June 30, 2025, the strategy has successfully raised $39 billion in capital and invested in 104 facilities across 28 global markets. This extensive investment underscores the urgency of meeting the surging demand for data connectivity, thereby positioning both QIA and Blue Owl as leaders in the digital transformation journey.

The Strategic Partnership Agreement between QIA and Blue Owl marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital infrastructure. Through their combined expertise and resources, they aim to facilitate the next generation of technological advancement, ultimately shaping a more connected and data-driven world.

Sun, Sand, and Silent Power — How 40 Electric Forklifts Just Changed Qatar

The Big Delivery That Got Everyone Talking

On September 2, SANY Robotics, a subsidiary of SANY Group dedicated to smart warehousing and logistics, delivered 40 electric forklifts to a customer in Qatar, marking its largest electric forklift order in the Middle East. The forklifts will serve the Abu Samra Border logistics project, bringing efficient, clean energy to the project.  Based on the "Three Transformations" strategy of Globalization, Digitalization, and Decarbonization, SANY is actively expanding into the emerging blue ocean of smart and low-carbon logistics and warehousing.

Honestly, that sentence alone pretty much tells the story: big machines, big ambitions, and a real push toward greener logistics. Moreover, this move signals that the region is ready for smarter, low-emission operations. So, it’s not just a delivery — it’s a statement.

Why These Forklifts Matter (and Why They’re Different)

For years, diesel forklifts have been associated with high emissions, energy consumption, and noise, while traditional electric forklifts often struggle with inefficient power, poor adaptability, and range anxiety under extreme conditions such as high temperatures, humidity, dust, and heavy loads, making them difficult to fully replace diesel models. Thus, market demand and customer pain points have become a source of SANY's technological innovation.

SANY utilized the cutting-edge new-energy vehicle technologies for forklifts, and became the pioneer in China to launch a 300V high-voltage lithium platform. Fully integrating automotive-grade batteries, motors, and electronic controls with the vehicle control unit (VCU), SANY's electric forklift owns diesel-level—or even superior—power performance. In this way, the forklift features a full-load gradeability of 25%, and a "1-hour charge for 8-hour operation" cycle, removing any concerns about battery life.

Tough Conditions, Smart Tech

At the same time, the machine has experienced strict technical tests, proven its stability in extreme conditions. Equipped with IP67-rated core systems with liquid cooling, the machine ensures reliable operation across ports, factories, chemical plants, and cold-chain logistics. Therefore, whether the environment is harsh or the schedule tight, these forklifts are built to keep going.

Beyond high-performance, SANY's forklifts integrate autonomous driving and AI to create a low-carbon, intelligent logistics ecosystem covering warehousing, handling, sorting, and loading. This strategic vision underscores SANY's commitment to driving global green logistics transformation.

The Bigger Picture

Today, SANY electric forklifts are running in over 50 countries and more than 40 challenging job sites worldwide. As globalization and green transition accelerate, SANY has been enlarging its investment in intelligent manufacturing innovation. According to the first half of 2025 results, SANY Heavy Industry invested $0.3 billion in R&D, accounting for over 5% of its total revenue. In the future, SANY will continue to advance product upgrades and sustainable solutions while creating greater value for customers and partners worldwide.

So, next time you see a quiet forklift moving crates at dusk, remember: it might just be part of a much bigger push toward cleaner, smarter logistics.

Heat Waves and High Hopes: JETOUR’s Epic Endurance Challenge

Alright, folks! Buckle up because JETOUR is about to take us on a wild ride across the scorching sands of the Middle East! After nailing its extreme cold challenge, the brand is ready to tackle the heat with an epic cross-border expedition. Picture this: starting at the end of June and stretching for a full month, JETOUR will cover over 3,000 kilometers through some of the hottest climates imaginable. From Oman, they’ll cruise through the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Iraq, and Kuwait, before culminating at the breathtaking “Edge of the World” in Saudi Arabia. Yep, you heard that right!

Now, you might be wondering what’s behind this crazy adventure. Well, the star of the show is none other than the T2 i-DM, JETOUR’s first hybrid SUV, making waves since its debut in Qatar last December. This vehicle isn’t just here to look pretty; it’s ready to prove its mettle. With a series of demanding test scenarios lined up, including extended desert driving and solar load testing, the T2 i-DM will showcase its performance capabilities under extreme conditions. Can you say “ultimate road trip challenge”? 

The Star Performer: T2 i-DM

Let’s talk about the real MVP here—the JETOUR T2 i-DM! This hybrid upgrade of the popular T2 is not just a pretty face; it’s loaded with features that make it a standout in the SUV market. With a combined fuel consumption of only 0.8L/100km and a pure electric range of 139 km, it’s the perfect companion for everything from your daily commute to adventurous camping trips. Plus, it even supports high-power external discharge for those outdoor escapades! Talk about versatility!

And don’t forget, JETOUR is not just about performance; they’re also about building a community. They’ve invited top auto media, influencers, and professional drivers from the Middle East to join this specialized team for the expedition. It’s all about putting the T2 i-DM through its paces and showcasing its strength in harsh environments. With JETOUR already ranking 4th in SUV sales in 2025, this challenge is sure to boost its recognition and growth even further. So, keep your eyes peeled for updates on this thrilling journey—this is one road trip you won’t want to miss!

Cainiao’s Strategic Expansion into the GCC

In a significant development for the logistics sector, Cainiao, a global leader in smart logistics, has recently launched its global-to-global express delivery service across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This expansion, which includes the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of cross-border e-commerce logistics. By enabling e-commerce platforms to fulfill their logistics requirements in as little as three days, Cainiao is not merely enhancing its services; it is propelling the entire logistics landscape forward, addressing the escalating demand for expedited delivery options in both local and cross-border markets.

As the first Chinese logistics provider to establish a unified express network throughout the Middle East, Cainiao's initiative comes at a time when the region is experiencing unprecedented growth in economic activity and consumer expenditure. The Middle East, projected to witness its e-commerce market surge to $50 billion by 2025, serves as a fertile ground for innovative logistics solutions. Within this context, Cainiao's layered logistics strategy—offering both rapid air freight and economical overland shipping options—positions the company as a pivotal player in the regional logistics ecosystem.

Tailored Solutions for a Dynamic Market

Cainiao's strategic approach to logistics in the Middle East encompasses a comprehensive array of air and ground shipping alternatives designed to cater to the diverse needs of e-commerce platforms. Notably, the air freight option promises deliveries in as little as three days between countries, ensuring that businesses can meet customer expectations for swift service. Conversely, the overland shipping option provides a cost-effective solution for reaching any city within 6-8 days, thereby accommodating a broader spectrum of logistical requirements.

Moreover, the affordability of Cainiao's services further enhances its appeal. By keeping shipping costs comparable to the price of a cup of coffee—approximately $1 less per kilogram than the market average—Cainiao ensures that efficient delivery remains accessible to a wide range of businesses. This commitment to affordability and reliability reflects the company's deep understanding of local market dynamics and its dedication to fostering growth within the region's e-commerce sector.

William Xiong, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cross-border at Cainiao Group, emphasizes the importance of this expansion. "Building a global smart parcel network is central to Cainiao's core strategy, and the Middle East is a key region within our global footprint," he states. Such insights underline Cainiao's commitment to not only expanding its global network but also actively engaging with local partners to enhance the efficiency of cross-border logistics solutions.

Cainiao's launch of its express delivery service in the GCC represents a transformative step in logistics, promising to bridge gaps in e-commerce delivery across the region. As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of global trade, Cainiao stands poised to empower them with the tools and solutions necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected marketplace. For more information about Cainiao and its services, potential partners and businesses can visit [cainiao.com](http://cainiao.com) or reach out through designated contact channels.