Doha, January 16 (QNA) - Msheireb Properties hosted the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference 2025: Investing in the Future, in partnership with The Business Year. The conference, held at Barahat Msheireb in Msheireb Downtown Doha, brought together influential leaders and decision-makers from across the GCC to discuss regional economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

The event commenced with a pre-conference workshop at HEC Paris in Qatar, focusing on sustainable innovation and leadership challenges in a rapidly evolving world. During the opening session, Dr. Hafiz Ali Abdullah, Senior Director of Corporate Communication at Msheireb Properties, emphasized the importance of cultivating proactive, challenge-seeking cultures within organizations to drive sustainable innovation.

Director of Trade Development and Investment Promotion at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Hamad Al Nasr shared insights on Qatar's economic diversification efforts and investment opportunities.

In turn, Board Member of Qatar Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Khalid Bin Klefeekh Al Hajri emphasized the private sector's role in driving innovation and sustainable development across the region.

The main conference began with a welcome address from CEO of Msheireb Properties, Eng. Ali Al Kuwari who highlighted the significance of sustainable urban development and innovation in shaping the region's future. "Msheireb Downtown Doha stands as a testament to our nation's visionary leadership and commitment to advancing Qatar National Vision 2030," stated Al Kuwari. "This conference exemplifies our dedication to promoting regional cooperation and innovation, creating a platform where policymakers, thought leaders, and innovators can collaborate to unlock immense potential for growth,' he added.

During the panel discussion on "The Future of Economic Zones - Innovation and Opportunities," industry leaders highlighted the evolution of free zones in the GCC region.

CEO of Sharjah Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) Office, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh noted that It's not about real estate anymore, it's about the ecosystem. The whole region is booming." This sentiment was echoed by Bader Al Madhadhi from Qatar Free Zones Authority, who emphasized that free zones are aligned with the region's vision for economic diversification, digital transformation, and sustainability.

The discussions highlighted the GCC's strategic advantages, with Ali Shehab, Global Director of Special Projects and Services at DNV, emphasizing the region's unique position connecting East and West. Head of Meydan Free Zone, Hamed Ahli shared impressive statistics about their operations, noting that more than 95 percent of investors are FDI, with over 180 nationalities represented.

The conference's location at Barahat Msheireb proved particularly fitting, as Msheireb Downtown Doha embodies many of the themes discussed throughout the day's sessions. The second panel discussion explored "The Role of Technology in Infrastructure and Private Investment's Impact on Regional Connectivity in the GCC," featuring insights from industry leaders including Sami Zaitoon, Managing Partner of Moore Qatar, and Irene Vidal, CEO of FMM.

These discussions resonated strongly with Msheireb Downtown Doha's position as the world's first sustainable downtown regeneration project, which has become a vibrant hub for innovation and sustainable urban living. The district's recent attraction of major institutions, including Media City Qatar and Qatar Airways' global headquarters, demonstrates its success in creating an ecosystem that supports the type of innovation and economic diversification highlighted throughout the conference.

Both panels were complemented by special sessions, including an innovation speech by Aysha Al Mudahka, RDI Program Director at QRDI Council, and a special report launch by Doha Bank, providing attendees with comprehensive insights into Qatar's evolving innovation and investment landscape. The conference's discussions about technology-driven infrastructure and sustainable development.

The conference concluded with a strong emphasis on regional cooperation, with speakers highlighting how collaboration and knowledge transfer can strengthen the region's ability to attract major institutions and drive innovation. (QNA)