Author: Niyas Aboobacker

Media City Qatar (MCQ) and the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council have announced a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Qatar Economic Forum on 16^th May 2024. This collaboration aims to foster an innovation-driven media sector in Qatar, enhancing technological capabilities and global competitiveness in alignment with the National Development Strategy 3 (NDS-3), and MCQ’s directive as regional leader in the media industry, contributing to Qatar’s economic diversification, and The QRDI 2030 Strategy.

The MoU sets the framework for integrating media as a dedicated stream within QRDI Council’s broader innovation initiatives. Under this MoU, MCQ and the QRDI Council will spearhead joint initiatives aimed at fostering innovation capabilities within the media ecosystem. A roadmap will guide the translation of QRDI Council’s funding and supportive initiatives into tangible projects. Additionally, MCQ will participate in the QRDI Council’s Corporate Innovation Leaders program in 2024, encouraging media companies under its umbrella to engage in QRDI Council's Technology Development Grant and Qatar Open Innovation program.

This partnership extends to enhancing the attractiveness of Qatar as a destination for RDI-intensive media organizations by collaborating with key stakeholders, including leading academic institutions. It further aims to structure foreign direct investment for the media cluster, generating positive spillovers within Qatar's RDI ecosystem. Additionally, the initiative will include a series of interdisciplinary training workshops aimed at boosting the innovation skills of MCQ tenants, supporting the creation of high-skilled job opportunities in the media sector, and fostering the continuous development of local talent.

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of Media City Qatar, commented on the partnership, stating, "This MoU marks a significant milestone in our commitment to transforming Qatar into a global hub for media innovation. By integrating media into the Council’s innovation programs and aligning our incentives and grants, we are setting the stage for a dynamic, technologically advanced media sector."

Omar Al-Ansari, QRDI Council’s Secretary General, emphasized, “Our partnership with Media City Qatar epitomizes strategic diversification, enriching our portfolio by integrating the vibrant media stream. Recognizing Digital Technology as one of the five National RDI priority areas outlined in our QRDI 2030 Strategy, this collaboration not only expands our innovation landscape but also marks a significant step towards fulfilling our mission of nurturing a culture of technological advancement and creative excellence. This also marks a new chapter in Qatar's global media prominence, contributing to the fulfilment of the Qatar National Vision 2030."

MCQ and QRDI Council will also work closely with key stakeholders to shape a policy and regulatory environment conducive for innovative media companies, facilitating a thriving media landscape in Qatar.

Media City Qatar (MCQ) and Qatar University (QU) have joined forces by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Qatar Economic Forum on May 15, 2024, to offer comprehensive media education programs to current students and recent graduates of QU. This collaboration aims to nurture future media professionals in Qatar, in alignment with the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030, focusing on building an education-based media society.

The collaboration offers a variety of hands-on learning experiences, including shadowing and internship programs with MCQ’s licensees and partners. These programs, available both in Doha and internationally, are designed to provide QU students and recent graduates with real-world exposure in multiple media disciplines.

The initiative encompasses a broad spectrum of media fields such as journalism, editorial work, broadcasting, media production, and other related areas, aiming to equip students with the essential skills needed in today's dynamic media environment.

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of Media City Qatar, shared his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "Through this MoU with Qatar University, we are setting a robust platform for aspiring media professionals. Our goal is to integrate practical learning opportunities with academic education to cultivate a skilled workforce that will drive the future of Qatar’s media industry. This initiative not only supports our national vision but also strengthens our position as a leading media hub in the region."

Dr. Omar Al-Ansari, President of Qatar University commented on the collaboration, said: “We sign this agreement with Media City marking our commitment towards the Qatar National Vision 2030, moving forward towards a path where knowledge empowers and innovation thrives. Through our collaborative program, we will nurture the next generation of leaders in journalism, broadcasting, and media production, equipping them with not only theoretical knowledge but also invaluable practical experience. This partnership exemplifies our shared dedication to a future where education and media converge to further opportunity and progress for our future media leaders.”

The MoU sets a comprehensive framework for both entities to contribute effectively to the educational and professional development of the country’s youth, further enhancing the attractiveness of Qatar as a thriving hub for media innovation and education.

Doha, Qatar – Media City Qatar (MCQ), in close partnership with Bloomberg Media, proudly announces the fourth annual “Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg” (QEF), scheduled for May 14-16, 2024. Themed "A World Remade: Navigating the Year of Uncertainty," this year’s forum promises an unprecedented convening of over 1,000 global leaders to delve into critical issues at the heart of today’s economic landscape and underscores the ambitious vision shared by Media City Qatar and Bloomberg to catalyze global economic discourse.

Amidst the largest election year in global history, QEF is positioned as a crucible for actionable solutions, with a strong emphasis on shaping a sustainable economic future – at a time when the need for transformative discussions on a range of significant topics could not be greater. These include: "Geopolitics, Globalization & trade," where the evolving political landscape’s impact on investment flows, supply chains, and the global economy will be examined; "Business & Investment Outlook," offering insights into market growth and economic trends; "The Energy Transition," featuring expert analysis from leading decision-makers on the future of LNG and sustainable energy; "Sports & Entertainment," revealing the latest disruptions set to transform the multibillion-dollar sports industry; and "Technology Innovation," exploring the next advancements in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and beyond.

Reflecting on the partnership's impact and the significance of this year’s forum, His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdulla bin Ali Al Thani, Chairman of Media City Qatar, stated: "Our partnership with Qatar Economic Forum is a testament to the indispensable role of the media in fostering economic, political, and social progress. As we navigate a year of uncertainty, our forum becomes a pivotal platform for clear, compelling narratives that not only address misinformation but also promote understanding across diverse global perspectives. Through innovation and dialogue, we aim to harness the potential of the Gulf's media industry as a dynamic force for economic growth and a bridge between cultures."

Since its inception in 2021, the partnership between Media City Qatar and Bloomberg Media to host QEF has built on a solid foundation, highlighting a mutual dedication to driving meaningful conversations on economic trends, challenges, and opportunities.

Year after year, the forum has consistently met its goal of igniting innovation and promoting international cooperation, marked by the signing of numerous MoUs and the creation of new alliances. In 2023 alone, QEF was instrumental in introducing eight new MoUs, thereby cementing Qatar’s status as a vital hub for dialogue and investment and amplifying its influence in the global business ecosystem. This year, the forum is set to unite representatives from over 50 countries, facilitating robust exchanges and dialogue among global leaders, innovators, and policymakers.

Media City Qatar regards the upcoming Qatar Economic Forum 2024 as an indispensable opportunity for media outlets globally and encourages their prompt registration to partake in and report on these pivotal discussions. The forum represents a unique opportunity for media professionals to engage with and amplify the significant economic narratives that will emerge from this crucial gathering.

Qatar is emerging as a significant player in the global esports scene, with the MENA region witnessing unprecedented growth and attention due to the investments made in its esports ecosystem. As countries across the region focus on attracting talent, hosting major tournaments, and fostering industry development, Qatar is ready to tackle esports head on, and become one of its main players.

With a tech-savvy population, particularly among the youth, Qatar boasts a vibrant online community deeply engaged in gaming and esports. This presents a unique opportunity for Qatar to establish itself as a prominent hub for esports in the region and beyond.

In light of this potential for growth and innovation, Media City Qatar, in collaboration with SNRG, a leading esports company, is proud to announce the inaugural Media City Qatar Esports Forum. Scheduled to take place on May 19th, 2024 in Doha, Qatar, this landmark event aims to shape Qatar’s esports future and encourage further developments in the local esports ecosystem.

In keeping with its role as a catalyst for media excellence and entrepreneurship in the region, the inaugural Media City Qatar Esports Forum presented by SNRGwill provide a platform for industry leaders, stakeholders, and enthusiasts to convene, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities in the rapidly evolving world of esports - through panel discussions, keynote speeches, workshops, and networking sessions.

This forum represents a pivotal moment for Qatar's esports scene, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the country's potential and chart a course for future growth and success. With the support of partners such as Visit Qatar and Qatar Esports Federation, the event aims to elevate Qatar's position as a leading hub for esports in the MENA region.

“We are delighted to partner with SNRG for this new forum and help drive Qatar’s esports evolution. This is a key sector in the new media world and we are determined to support Qatar and the MENA region in their efforts to be at its leading edge,” - Thair Al Anani, Director of Business Development at Media City Qatar.

“The Qatar Esports Federation is proud to be a part of this forum, and to be leading the esports evolution in Qatar. We are dedicated to fostering growth and development in this sector, to propel Qatar into the global esports stage” - Ahmed Al Meghessib, Head of Sports Affairs Sector at Qatar Esports Federation.

“SNRG is proud to collaborate with Media City Qatar to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and shape the future of esports in Qatar and beyond. The forum will aim to unlock opportunities and enlighten its attendees about Qatar and its potential in esports." - Ibrahim Samha, Co-Founder & CEO of SNRG.