Author

The second edition of the Waste Management Conference and Exhibition that features the latest technologies and innovations in the waste management sector kicked off Monday in Doha. HE the Minister of Municipality Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie opened the exhibition in the presence of HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser bin Ahmed bin Ali al-Thani, a number of senior officials from various ministries and representatives of public institutions and private companies. While delivering the keynote address, al-Subaie noted that the conference and the exhibition are beneficial to Qatar since the country focuses on implementing systematic waste management. “Several local, regional and international organizations specialised in waste management are taking part in the conference and the exhibition with putting together policies to reduce inappropriate disposal of waste,” he said, adding that Qatar has a comprehensive strategy to manage and reduce waste and to invest in the waste management sector. PICTURES: Thajudheen “The country is focusing on raising awareness and a team has been formed in order to reach the best solutions,” he said and added that the conference studies and discusses the latest developments in waste management. Local, regional and international companies. The opening ceremony also marked the launching of the National Comprehensive Strategy to manage solid waste.  Deputy Director General of Environment at European Commission Patrick Child addressed the ceremony via video conferencing. 

In an appreciation to its best green practices and measures, Al Thumama Stadium, a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 venue, has won the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) 5-Star certification. Senior officials of the Supreme Committee of Delivery and Legacy (SC) received the certificate from GSAS representatives at a function inside the stadium on Thursday. The certificate, which embodies excellence in the areas of sustainability, design and construction, was received by Al Thumama Stadium project manager engineer Saoud Abdulaziz al-Ansari, from the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (Gord) chairman Dr Yousef al-Horr. Al Thumama Stadium's architect engineer Ibrahim al-Jaidah, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy's (SC) Sustainability and Environment director engineer Bodour al-Meer, project management team members, and Gord representatives were present. Al-Jaidah, also chief architect of Arab Engineering Bureau, told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event that the certification is a prestigious achievement. "The certification means the stadium has the highest level of sustainability features. All of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums have won the 5-Star or 4-Star certification and Al Thumama Stadium will be setting a benchmark for any stadium going to be built in the future in Qatar," he said. The prominent Qatari architect added that the award came after taking into account the key features, including use of materials, designing and energy consumption. SC's al-Meer said that one of FIFA's requirements was that all stadiums earn at least one four-star green building certification. "Now all stadiums have earned three five-star certifications." Gord's Dr al-Horr said that Qatar's World Cup stadiums were committed to sustainability requirements. "The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy went above and beyond sustainability requirements to ensure the stadiums had the best sustainability standards compared to all previous World Cups," he added. Al Thumama Stadium's energy centre was refurbished and upgraded to meet the latest energy efficiency standards and the stadium has incorporated best practice from the start. The stadium's green design ensures 40% more fresh water is saved when compared to a conventional stadium. Recycled water is used to irrigate green areas. The precinct features 50,000sqm of park area, with native vegetation and almost 400 trees covering 84% of the landscape. While employing modern energy efficiency measures, Al Thumama Stadium maintains a commitment to the region's architectural and cultural heritage. ends...    

Qatar, preparing to host the FIFA World Cup this year, has the potential to host the Olympics too, British rowing legend Sir Steve Redgrave has told Gulf Times. The most successful male rower in Olympic history, Sir Steve is the only rower to win five gold medals at five consecutive editions of the Olympic Games - from Los Angeles 1984 to Sydney 2000. He is in Doha to attend some programmes by the Qatar Olympic Committee. "Qatar has made all arrangements for the FIFA World Cup, with several infrastructure development works," he observed. The ambassador of the property and construction consultancy Gleeds will visit the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum at the Khalifa International Stadium in Aspire Zone. Also, the museum will have a dedicated section that features the achievements and contributions of Sir Steve. Five years ago Sir Steve had visited the Aspire Zone. “The arrangements at Aspire Zone are impressive and the facilities stand testimonial to the efforts, made by Qatar, to promote sport. More infrastructure and investment can bring further development,” he said. Sir Steve has added three Commonwealth Games gold medals and nine World Rowing Championships golds to his credit. In 2018, he was appointed as lead coach and technical director for the Chinese rowing team. Under Sir Steve, the Chinese team won a gold medal each at the Tokyo Olympics and Paris Games and three golds and one silver at the 2019 World Championship. Currently he is working as a consultant while guiding the team.    

In an appreciation to its best green practices and measures, Al Thumama Stadium has won the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) 5-Star certification. Senior officials of the Supreme Committee of Delivery and Legacy (SC) received the certificate from GSAS representatives at a function held inside the stadium on Thursday.  One of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Al Tumama Stadium plays an important role in demonstrating Qatar's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the tournament and beyond.  Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah, Chief Architect of Arab Engineering Bureau and architect of Al Thumama Stadium, told Gulf Times that the certification is a prestigious achievement. "The certification means the stadium has the highest level of sustainability features. No stadium has reached such highest standards. All of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums have won the 5-Star or 4-Star certification and Al Thumama Stadium will be setting a benchmark for any stadium that are going to be built in the future in Qatar," he said.  The prominent architect added that the award came after taking key features including use of materials, designing and consumption of energy into account.  Al Tumama Stadium's energy centre was refurbished and upgraded to meet the latest energy efficiency standards and the stadium has incorporated best practice from the start. The stadium's green design ensures 40% more fresh water is saved when compared to a conventional stadium. Recycled water is used to irrigate green areas. The precinct features 50,000m2 of park area, with native vegetation and almost 400 trees covering 84% of the landscape. While employing modern energy efficiency measures, Al Thumama Stadium maintains a commitment to the region's architectural and cultural heritage.  

While providing the public with an opportunity to view difficulties and failure as an opportunity to learn, grow and improve, the 974Wellness will hold its wellness show on June 10 and 11 at Abdul Aziz Nasser Theatre at Souq Waqif. Titled 'Stand Up and Fall Forward', the show is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of wellbeing as a key part of good overall health. The show will feature Saudi Arabian comic Shaker AlSharief and Spider Salah, winner of 'Arabs Got Talent'. The details were announced at a press conference attended by Moza Khalid al-Muhannadi, director CSR, Sponsorship and Media at Ooredoo; Al Jaz al-Henzab, 974 Wellness founder; and life coach Abdulaziz Dalloul. Al-Henzab said that the show aims to encourage all sectors of the community to view difficulties and failure as a learning opportunity and a chance to grow. The show, from 6pm to 9pm, will have various sessions including interaction. Al-Mohannadi said Ooredoo is delighted to support 974Wellness in their latest initiative adding that the show assumes significance as it promotes good health and wellbeing. Tickets can be booked at https://bit.ly/3MG5j3N.  

Further intensifying its efforts to bring down accidents and ensure road safety, the General Directorate of Traffic has deployed a set of patrol vehicles with latest camera sensors on Qatar's roads. With their highly efficient and advanced censors, the vehicles are able to detect violations while also identifying the vehicles and motorists concerned as well as individuals standing in the vicinity of a vehicle. “The sensors can catch violations while covering up to six tracks on roads. Also, they will identify individuals who are facing other charges and wanted vehicles,” Capt Mohamed Abdullah al-Kuwari from the Traffic Awareness Department, General Directorate of Traffic, told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the recently held Milipol Qatar 2022. He said more such cameras with sensors will be installed. The official said some such vehicles are already patrolling the country's roads while more will be deployed soon, focusing on expressways and highways. He said the sensors notify a officers inside a police car if any wanted vehicle or person is nearby. Also, the sensors can detect violations such as the use of mobile cameras while driving. The live data is transferred to the National Command Centre. Capt al-Kuwari said the new vehicles have been brought in as part of the initiatives of the General Directorate of Traffic to reduce road accidents and prevent violations. He said added that most roads in Qatar are monitored through cameras installed as part of the Talaa project as well as mobile cameras.    

Qatar's leading tech startup Snoonu has acquired Akeed, a major Omani food delivery platform with a network of more than 1,000 restaurants and grocery stores, for $10mn. The two companies signed an agreement during the Snoonu Gala that was held on Saturday at Sheraton Doha in the presence of senior officials from the two companies. It was attended by members from the executive management of both companies, as well as high-profile delegates, prominent stakeholders and leading figures from across the local and regional business and entrepreneurship sectors. The new deal comes as part of Snoonu’s plans to expand its network to more countries. "This milestone is considered the first ever achieved by a local tech startup in Qatar. It serves as a step propelling the rising company forward and bringing it closer to achieving its goal of becoming the first local tech Unicorn company. The agreement will also shore up Snoonu’s business objectives that aim to diversify and expand the company’s operations across the region," Snoonu said in a statement. Hamad Mubarak al-Hajri, founder and CEO of Snoonu, said the acquisition of Akeed was a decision taken "based on the company’s stellar reputation as one of the leading food delivery platforms in our sisterly Sultanate of Oman".“Akeed’s wide network of restaurants and grocery stores will enable us to establish a solid foothold in the Omani market as our initial step towards an expanded regional presence and involvement,” he said. According to figures, Snoonu maintains a fleet of more than 2,000 riders to provide a fast and affordable delivery solution across Qatar while enabling merchants to unlock unexplored areas and customer segments as far as 25km. Also, Snoonu allows brands to increase their reach by giving them access to Snoonu’s marketing platform and customers from a greater distance. Al-Hajri noted that gross merchandise volume has grown remarkably while showing continuous year-on-year growth with approximately six times growth between 2020 and 2021. The number of merchants partnering with Snoonu has reached 3,500 while Snoonu’s orders have shown continuous year-on-year growth with approximately eight times growth between 2020 and 2021. He explained that Snoonu has further expansion plans, spreading its wings to cosmetics, tech, laundry, health, tailoring and logistics services. He noted that neighbouring areas such as Saudi Arabia along with some other GCC countries, Pakistan and Turkey exhibit a great potential with a $105bn market to expand into, adding that Oman and Kuwait with similar demographics are Snoonu’s key target areas in 2022. “This amazing milestone is quite exciting for us because it reinforces our efforts towards becoming Qatar’s first-ever tech Unicorn. We owe it to the country and its visionary leadership to continue to seek growth around the world and to contribute towards the fulfilment of Qatar National Vision 2030.” he added. Akeed CEO and co-founder Gaurav Anil Nahar said they were excited about this agreement with Snoonu and look forward to a future vision that would bring the latest in the e-commerce and logistics services industry to Oman.“The Akeed team is happy to be joining hands with such a successful brand from Qatar, and we believe that this deal will add more value to both markets,” he said. Snoonu co-founder and chairman Saud al-Attiyah and other senior Snoonu officials also spoke at the event. Snoonu is a one-stop-shop application, facilitating online shopping, lifestyle, food, grocery delivery and third-party logistics services for startups and SMEs in Qatar. In addition to offering its customers a seamless service and speedy deliveries for their items, the company is a pioneer, contributing to the development of the local tech economy by encouraging innovation and revolutionising local online services.    

The 11th electronic auction of the special numbers with the logo of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has evoked a good response. Lt Faisal Abdul Azeez al-Haidouse, Number Plate Production Workshop officer at the General Directorate of Traffic, told Gulf Times that the auction witnessed many takers and the opportunity was available for citizens and residents. “The participants could preview the distinctive numbers and the starting price for each number and its category through Metrash2,” he said. The set of fancy numbers was divided into two categories. The first included 30 special numbers, of which 23 were open for auction starting from QR100,000 for each number. Auction for the remaining seven special numbers opened at QR200,000. In this category, as per the data available on Metrash2, special number 811118 was sold for QR184,8000 and numbers 666662 and 777888 were sold for QR170,8000 and QR966,000, respectively. In the second category, there were 20 special numbers. The auction of each number was opened at QR50,000. In this category, the special number 401111 was sold for QR590,000 while the number 509999 was sold at QR560,000. The number 603333 was auctioned for QR482,000. Lt al-Haidouse said that all vehicles registered after June 1 will have number plates with FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 logo.    

Smart test cars introduced by the General Directorate of Traffic are all set to be used for driving tests across Qatar, it is learnt. The cars are undergoing trial operation at two driving schools now and will gradually be used in all such schools in the country. Lt-Col Salem Fahad Ghurab, head of the Drivers’ Licences Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, told Gulf Times at the recently held Milipol Qatar 2022 that the car can intelligently monitor drivers' errors.   Lt-Col Salem Fahad Ghurab “All testing procedures will be done without any human intervention and the test result can’t be manipulated as the data is monitored live. The new car ensures transparency,” he said. He added that the smart car is equipped with high-resolution sensors and cameras and has a map system that includes data on all roads in Qatar. The speed limits specified on roads are set in the sensors and any violation could be easily detected while conducting the tests. The vehicle can also archive tests for future use as it is linked to a smart application that enables the driver to know and view the test result directly, and alert errors in case of failure. It also transmits a live image to the authority concerned within the General Directorate of Traffic and this enables direct communication with the driver inside the vehicle. The smart test car was among the various state-of-the-art technologies and equipment showcased by different Ministry of Interior department, including the General Directorate of Traffic, at Milipol Qatar 2022, which was held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Interfaith dialogues assume significance at a time when hatred rears its ugly head across the world, noted Indian Islamic scholar Dr Bahaudden Mohamed Nadwi has said. Dr Nadwi is on a visit to Doha where he attended the 14th Doha Conference on Interfaith Dialogue under the theme of ‘Religions and Hate Speech...Scriptures and Practice’. The Vice-Chancellor of Kerala-based Darul Huda Islamic University, Nadwi is a member of International Union for Muslim Scholars. Dr Nadwi, during an interview with Gulf Times, stressed the need for interfaith dialogue between cultures while developing it as an opportunity to address issues and the challenges that prevent peaceful coexistence. “Neither any religion nor ideology, whether it’s oriental or other, advocate violence or hatred at any cost. While it comes to Islam, its teachings are based on the basic principles of the equality of mankind, mutual understanding, co-operation and friendship. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life is marked by love and compassion while his covenants outline that all should be treated as humans,” he said noting that Qur’an teachings are all about inclusiveness and the holy book describes itself as ‘an exposition for the people’ without constraining its address to any particular community. “Further, it urges to be just and bridge the gaps as it says “Allah doesn’t forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity.” “Neither nurse mutual hatred, nor jealousy, nor enmity, and become as fellow brothers and servants of God,” the Prophet’s (PBUH) teaching, addresses the entire humankind while urging them to keep the bond of love and mutual respect intact. “Dialogues are essential as they create a better atmosphere of togetherness,” he said. “Islam is for human while Qur’an was revealed for the spiritual and physical elevation of the entire humankind. Humanity is first and the fundamental duty of disseminating the messages of togetherness applies to all Muslim scholars who got the religious obligation of discharging their duties duly.” This is the second time Dr Nadwi has represented India at the Doha Conference on Interfaith Dialogue while highlighting the country’s legacy of upholding harmony. “At the Interfaith Dialogue, I was delighted to represent India’s centuries old initiatives that developed a strong bond of togetherness across India. Numerous heritages and monuments bear witness of a glorious past while telling the beautiful stories of religious harmony in India where people from different faiths live together in the spirit of humanity, diversity and rich heritage of tolerance,” he said. Dr Nadwi praised the efforts by Qatar government to foster peace noting that initiatives like Interfaith Dialogue consolidate the foundations of co-operation among civilisations, cultures and religions for a better future for human society. “It’s an ideal venue of interaction with various issues and topics that urge our attention in the local and global scenes as it’s attended by intellectual and consultative forums of thinkers, religious scholars and academics,” he said, adding that the conferences discussed frameworks for co-operation between religions while stressing the need to serve the humankind regardless of their religion, race, gender or colour. “Also, the conference, in its 14th edition, sought ways to enhance understanding and knowledge of the other to achieve the foundations of global co-existence,” he noted, adding that there is need to spread the idea of interfaith dialogues in order to achieve coexistence, promote understanding and to strengthen links between followers of various religions. Noting that misconceptions about Islam loom large while tarnishing the image of the religion and denigrating its true spirit, Dr Nadwi said that there should be attempts to address this grim scenario while opening the new fronts of dialogues and building bridges.  

Barzan Holdings is focusing on empowering Qatar’s armed forces and meeting the nation’s defence requirements, a senior official told Gulf Times on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2022. Abdullah al-Khater, Barzan Holdings vice-president and chief strategic procurement officer, explained that the objective is achieved through its high value procurement contracts, partnership with leading global firms, research efforts and development of innovative security technologies.   Abdullah al-Khater “Serving Qatar through its subsidiaries, joint ventures, and partnerships, Barzan Holdings has fostered local knowledge and expertise in a multitude of domains including air, land and sea combat systems, cybersecurity, training, and consultancy. "The government-owned entity has also helped open new industries across Qatar, creating fresh career paths and new learning and development opportunities, while facilitating knowledge and technology transfer. Barzan is helping establish a new industrial ecosystem across the country, in line with its mission to promote long-term security, human capacity building, research and development, and technological innovation." At Milipol 2022 Barzan Holdings is representing 11 firms: Barzan Aeronautical, Barzan Industrial Group, Barzan Maintenance Shield, Bindig, Barood Ammunition Factory, BQ Solutions, Edraq Healthcare Solutions, QSUR, Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies, Special Operations Training Company and Ibtechar. Barzan Aeronautical operates as an independent commercial company focused on the application and use of aerial Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems that support the defence and security requirements of Qatar. Barzan Industrial Group (BIG) is the engineering and manufacturing arm of Barzan Holdings. Barzan Maintenance Shield (BMS), a wholly-owned Barzan Holdings subsidiary, is a local commercial leader and one-stop solution for all maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services across the Qatari security and defence sector. Bindig is a joint venture between Barzan Holdings and Beretta Holding. It aims to provide the Qatar Armed Forces with ultra-modern and superior weapon systems. Barood Ammunition Factory is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barzan Holdings, a manufacturing firm fully maintained by Qatar’s Ministry of Defence. BQ Solutions delivers advantage and value to Qatar’s military and security forces through expert and specialist defence consultancy and services and supporting Qatar to build security and resilience for the future. Edraq Healthcare Solutions, a joint venture between Barzan Holdings and Aspen Medical Australia, provides innovative and world-class healthcare solutions to stakeholders in Qatar, including the Qatar Armed Forces. QSUR is the product of a successful pact signed in 2018 between Barzan Holdings, Turkish firm Sur International and the Qatar Amiri Guard to create a joint venture – QSUR. Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies QSTP-LLC (RBAT), a joint venture between Barzan Holdings QSTP-LLC and the German technology company Rheinmetall, is established and operating in Qatar to provide technologies-focused solutions to domestic and foreign Security and Defence clients. Special Operations Training Company (SOTC) provides the armed forces community with the very best in professional training. SOTC delivers coaching and guidance to produce totally holistic capability development. Al-Khater noted that research and development have been at the core of Barzan Holdings’ mission since its establishment. “Through its growing collaboration with specialist defense and security firms around the world, Barzan Holdings is helping Qatar advance its capabilities. In recent years, the firm has expanded its local partnerships to include educational alliances that enhance local knowledge and technology transfer in the defense and security sectors,” he noted, adding that Barzan is working very closely with Qatar University and the Qatar Foundation in order to work on the research and development aspects. “Research is one of the three pillars that Barzan focuses on,” he said. Al-Khater explained that Barzan’s latest innovations include anti-drone solutions that meet the needs of the local and global markets. “These were developed in partnership with Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies (RBAT) to provide a complete solution to counter the emerging threats posed by the proliferation of drones. Barzan Holdings is also continuing work with RBAT on the development of a Qatari System Integration - command and control software - for the deployment of autonomous combat vehicles,” he said. He added that Barzan Holdings is investing alongside its partners in expanding Qatar’s industrial ecosystem. “Barzan’s investments extend beyond military industries to include the health sector. It has joined hands with Aspen Medical Australia through Edraq Healthcare Solutions to provide innovative and world-class healthcare solutions to stakeholders in Qatar, including the Qatar Armed Forces. When Covid-19 hit the world hard, it moved very quickly to sign an agreement with one of our partners to manufacture ventilators that helped and aided while easing the Covid-19 situation. “We were successful in producing the first locally-made ventilator that was used in the health sector with the military grade,” he explained. “Barzan Holdings’ portfolio consists of direct investments, early-stage venture capital investments, indirect investments, as well as joint ventures that benefit Qatar through the creation of new technologies and acquisition of intellectual property,” he added. Barzan will be leveraging its expertise in the security industry and its collection of innovative technologies and equipment to contribute to Qatar’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, one of the world’s major sporting events, al-Khater added.

* Seven MoI buildings inaugurated virtually One of the latest technological systems launched at Milipol Qatar 2022 is the Early Warning System, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced. The system is operated by the Communications Department at the MoI. The new system responds to emergencies by sending messages to community members to alert them in the event of disasters or emergencies in a certain area. One of the advantages of this system is that a large number of alert messages can be sent to users within a few seconds. Also, messages can be sent to people in a limited geographical area such as a football ground. Meanwhile, seven buildings of the Ministry of Interior were inaugurated virtually on the opening day of Milipol Qatar 2022. These are the Wakra Civil Defence Centre, Al Sailiya Police Station, Shamal Security Complex, Al Fazaa Police Department headquarters in Mesaimeer, Al Thumama Traffic Investigation Section, Police Dog Section and Umm Salal Police Station.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI), represented by the General Directorate of Information Systems, Tuesday launched 17 new e-services on the Metrash2 application. The launch was held on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2022 at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.   Major Ali Ahmed al-Binali, head of the Electronic Services and Internet Department in the General Directorate of Information Systems, MoI, told Gulf Times that the new services were added as part of the ministry's efforts to help citizens and residents avail of services without going to MoI offices. The services have been launched as part of the efforts made by the MoI to keep pace with the latest technologies that facilitate services for customers, which save their effort and time and reduce the numbers of the customers visiting MoI Service Centres, it was stressed. The new services include six Residence Permit services, five Search and Follow up services, three recruitment services, two Establishment Card services and one Al-Adeid Service. The details of the new services are as follows: * Metrash2 Residency Services 1. Applications for Issuing Residence Permits: Receiving applications for issuing residency permits that require approval from the Expatriate Affairs Department for various reasons such as passport expiry, fingerprint issues, medical test issues, etc. 2. Applications for Renewal of Residence Permits: Receiving applications for renewing residency permits that require approval from the Expatriate Affairs Department for various reasons such as restricted period, age, etc. 3. Applications for Cancellation of Residence Permits: Receiving applications for cancelling residency permits that require approval from the Expatriate Affairs Department for various reasons such as vehicle ownership, employing/hosting expatriating, etc. 4. Applications for Changing Passport Details: Receiving applications for changing passport details that require approval from the Expatriate Affairs Department for various reasons such as restrictions on the person and passports with accompanying persons. 5. Applications for Reducing Residence Violation Fines: Receiving applications for reducing fines imposed on expatriates that require approval from the Expatriates Affairs Department. 6. Tracking applications for residence services: Tracking applications for various residency services to know their status and options to complete the application from the same screen. * Establishment Card services 1. Issuing Establishment Card (Main office/branch): Authorised persons mentioned in the commercial register and commercial licence can get the Establishment Card issued electronically, whether for the main office or its branches, as per the required conditions. 2. Cancellation of Establishment Card: Authorised persons mentioned in the commercial register and commercial licence can cancel the Establishment Card electronically, provided that there are no pending services on it, such as valid residence permits, valid visas and vehicle along with cancellation of the commercial register and licence. * Services of the Search and Follow up Department 1. Complaints of Leaving Work: The employer or the authorised person can submit a complaint against the employee who obtained his/her residence permit and left the work without any legal justification. 2. Financial Claims - Fines: This service allows to pay overstay fines by the personal employers or companies, including fines for overstaying of persons required to leave the country. Financial Claims - Tickets: This service allows paying the amount of travel tickets spent by the Ministry of Interior to ensure the quick departure of persons required to leave the country. It can be paid by personal or corporate employers of the leaving employee after ensuring that the employee has left the country. * Visa Purpose Violation Complaint: The employer or the authorised person can submit a complaint against the employee who did not complete the residency permit (visa) procedures and left the work without any legal justification. * Witness Approval: This service allows witnesses added in the complaints of leaving the work or purpose violation to confirm their verification of the incident. * Al-Adeid Service 1. Al-Adeid Reporting Service (Communicate with us – Preventive Security). 2. Al-Adeid Reporting Service (Communicate with us): This service aims to communicate with members of society and receive information and complaints regarding public morals, wrong behaviour, threatening incidents, administrative corruption and violations in tourist places, in order to take the necessary measures in co-ordination with the relevant authorities. * Applications for Recruitment Approval 1. Applications for approval of domestic workers recruitment by Qataris. This service allows Qatari citizens to get approval for recruiting domestic workers after presenting a detailed list of domestic workers at the time of application. If all the conditions are met, instant approval will be granted, or the application will be referred to the relevant committee if not completed the requirements. * Applications for approval of domestic workers recruitment by residents. This service allows expatriate residents to get approval for recruiting domestic workers after presenting a detailed list of domestic workers at the time of application. If all the conditions are met, the application will be referred to the relevant committee to look into it. * Tracking Recruitment Approval Applications: This service allows the applicants to track the status of recruitment approval applications and follow up with it by uploading additional requirements if asked by the relevant committee to do so.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) Tuesday launched the Qatar Digital ID Card application service on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar. This comes as part of the MoI’s constant efforts to provide the latest and distinguished services to citizens and residents, effectively contribute to the national digital transformation among all ministries and authorities in Qatar, and achieve the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the strategic plans of the Ministry of Interior. Major Ali Ahmed al-Binali, head of the Electronic Services and Internet Department in the General Directorate of Information Systems at the MoI, told 'Gulf Times' that the Digital ID Card provides the highest degree of trust in obtaining the digital identity of users through a secure and easy-to-use application that contributes to reducing identity theft crimes in cyberspace. “The facial recognition of users stored with the MoI has been introduced as a key factor in digital ID formation. This is to authenticate the validity and authenticity of the identity of the persons eligible for the service and provide the protection and security of electronic transactions over the Internet to establish the concept of secure cyberspace,” he said, adding that it averts manipulation and ensures transparency. The identity of users is created and linked to a unique electronic signature of individuals, which includes national digital certificates that can be used through the application to approve electronic procedures and transactions to align with the laws and legislation in force in Qatar and protect these transactions from forgery and fraud. It also provides a practical and reliable way to prove the identity of the signer on the transactions in order to avoid cases of denial of the signature and raise the level of trust in electronic transactions both in Qatar and at the global level. Electronic seals are also introduced, which will enable the MoI in the first stage and then all other ministries and various bodies, to electronically seal certificates and documents issued by them to protect them from tampering and forgery. The application will also provide users with an easy way to access the electronic services website of the Ministry of Interior, as an alternative to using the current method of the card reader for the plastic smart card. The application contains the digital wallet, which provides storage and access to services for the ID card and electronically signed and sealed transactions for individuals at the Ministry of Interior. The digital wallet includes cards issued by the MoI, including a digital copy of the plastic Qatari ID card, driver's licence and vehicle registration.

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani inaugurated the 14th edition of the International Event for Homeland Security and Civil Defence, Milipol Qatar 2022, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre Tuesday. With wide local and international participation, the three-day exhibition is being attended by more than 220 exhibitors from 22 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North America and Asia. The inauguration was attended by ministers and ranking officials in the country, guest ministers visiting the country as well as police leaders from several brotherly and friendly countries, ambassadors accredited to the State and representatives of exhibiting companies. After the opening, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior took a tour of the exhibition's various sections, during which he was briefed on the latest equipment and devices on display, as well as services and innovative systems in the field of internal security and civil defence. He was also briefed on the characteristics of new security systems, their tasks and advanced technologies, the nature of their integration, their roles in enhancing internal security and preventing crimes before their occurrence. PICTURES: Thajudheen HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior launched a number of projects and buildings affiliated to several security and service departments at the Ministry of Interior (MoI), in addition to 17 new electronic services on the Metrash2 application, the digital identity card application, and the early warning system to respond to emergencies. The companies taking part in the event are showcasing their latest innovations in the security and civil defence sectors, featuring various defence solutions and equipment, security and communications technology, rescue and law-enforcement products and communications software. In the 14th edition of Milipol, 60% of the total exhibitors are participating for the first time. The exhibiting companies participating for the first time come from Australia, Canada, Cyprus, Croatia, Finland, India, the Netherlands and Slovakia. The exhibition also includes pavilions representing places such as France, Germany, Italy and Austria. Some 99 Qatari companies are part of the exhibition while various MoI departments, including the General Directorate of Traffic, Security Systems Department and Civil Defence, are showcasing their latest innovations in their pavilions. To run until May 26, the exhibitions will also witness the signing of several agreements between Qatar and international entities. On the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2022 events, seminars will be held to discuss the trends and innovations in cyber security and the security of major events in the presence of a group of international experts. The event is being held in an area estimated at more than 11,000sqm.

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the 14th edition of Milipol Qatar will begin at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) on Tuesday. The three-day event, organised by the Ministry of Interior (MoI), will be attended by more than 220 exhibitors from 22 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North America and Asia. The details of Milipol Qatar 2022 were provided at a press conference yesterday. It was attended by Maj-Gen Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani, chairman of the Milipol Qatar Committee; Yann Jounot, president of Milipol Events; and Brig Saud al-Shafi, member of the Milipol Committee. The chairman said 60% of the exhibitors are participating for the first time. “The exhibiting companies participating for the first time come from eight countries: Australia, Canada, Cyprus, Croatia, Finland, India, the Netherlands and Slovakia,” he added. The exhibition also includes pavilions representing France, North America, Germany, Italy and Austria, which are participating in the event for the first time, in addition to individual international participation as well as the participation of 99 exhibiting companies from Qatar. The official stressed that the current edition of the exhibition is a special one that will receive visitors from around the world again, at a time when movement between countries is witnessing signs of recovery after the restrictions and precautionary measures imposed due to the Covid-19. "We are confident that this year will be an exceptional year for the security sector in Qatar, as we approach the hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The exhibition will host several security seminars over two days, focusing on the safe management of major events and means of enhancing cyber security," he noted. Maj-Gen Nasser bin Fahd highlighted the growing participation of exhibitors and the increase in the area covered by the exhibition (11,000sqm), saying a greater turnout of visitors is also expected. He invited all bodies concerned to attend the exhibition to learn about the latest technologies and products and meet local and international companies, as a number of exhibitors will be launching new products and solutions. The exhibition provides an opportunity for manufacturers of equipment in the internal security and civil defence sectors to meet with decision-makers and specialists in the field of security, to exchange knowledge and experiences. The Milipol Committee chairman thanked the sponsors for their valuable contribution to the success of Milipol Qatar 2022. Jounot underlined the importance of participation and co-operation. He thanked the MoI for the great success achieved in the previous edition of the exhibition in 2021, which was one of the first exhibitions to be held in the region during the Covid-19 period. This shows the capability of Qatar to organise in the midst of the hardships and difficulties it faces. He also praised the Milipol Qatar Committee and its ability to organise one of the most important security exhibitions in the region. Brig al-Shafi said all arrangements have been completed for the opening of the event today, amid "great attendance and participation from various countries of the world". Meanwhile, Maj-Gen Nasser bin Fahd and a number of representatives of the supporting companies signed sponsorship agreements for the exhibition. The agreements were signed with Barzan Holdings, the strategic sponsor, represented by Nasser al-Nuaimi; Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co, the main sponsor, represented by Abdulghani Nasser al-Abdulghani; QNB, the main sponsor, represented by Ali Rashid al-Mohannadi; Ooredoo, the diamond sponsor, represented by Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad al-Thani; Al Hazm, the diamond sponsor, represented by Khalid al-Emadi; and Huawei, the diamond sponsor, represented by Zoling. Agreements were also signed with Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co (Nissan), the platinum sponsor, represented by Naseem Morani; Eshhar Holding Company, the golden sponsor, represented by Mudar Faisal; Mannai Corporation, the silver sponsor, represented by Khaled al-Mannai; Investment Promotion Agency, the bronze sponsor, represented by Jassim al-Neama; Qommunication, the social media sponsor, represented by Nora Abu Halaikha; and Milaha, represented by Mohamed Abdullah Sowaidan.    

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Milipol Qatar 2022 will begin at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre on Tuesday with the participation of local and international exhibiting companies. This was announced during a press conference held at Al Hazm Mall on Monday. Milipol Qatar chairman Major-General Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani told the press conference that all arrangements have been completed for Milipol 2022. The press conference also marked signing agreements with the sponsors of the exhibition.  PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam The chairman said that a total of 99 Qatari companies will attend the event while showcasing the equipment and innovation. Milipol 2022 Events Director Jann Jounot said that the show is an international event that witnesses innovation while expressing strong relationship with France. This brings ministries of the two countries together. Brig. Saud al-Shafi, a member of the Milipol Qatar Committee, said several agreements will be signed during the event. The press conference also marked signing agreements with the sponsors of the exhibition.

* PM opens FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security Last Mile Conference * Joint declaration on International Police Co-operation Centre signed       Qatar's readiness to host the FIFA World Cup later this year was reiterated at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security Last Mile Conference, which was opened by HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Security Committee for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, at InterContinental Doha Sunday morning. The conference outlines Qatar's security readiness to host the World Cup and will discuss measures to enhance police co-operation while following up on the implementation of security plans and strategies in co-operation with partners at the local, regional and international levels. With wide local and international participation, the conference is being held with the aim of emphasising the security readiness of Qatar to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 while reviewing the latest security preparations for the tournament. The opening of the conference was attended by a number of ministers, senior officials at the ministries of Defence and Interior, and ambassadors accredited to the State. Participating in the event are more than 40 delegations from the qualified countries, international and regional organisations and guests of the country. Maj-Gen Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Ansari, chairman of the Safety & Security Operations Committee for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, said while addressing the gathering that the conference comes a few months before the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as a continuation of the efforts of international co-ordination and co-operation and the exchange of experiences between various countries and security authorities at the regional and international levels. It is also an affirmation of the joint responsibility in achieving the highest standards of security and safety during the World Cup. “It is, therefore, a space for reflection and recognition of what has been done at all levels, especially the security aspects, which we have given the most attention and care to in preparation, training and qualifying to make it the safest and most secure edition of the World Cup,” he said. Regarding readiness, Maj-Gen al-Ansari noted that Qatar has completed its preparations to host the tournament. “Qatar enjoys high-level security and police services and ranks first in all global security indicators in terms of low crime," he said. These are in addition to possessing security capabilities and competencies that help the country provide the highest levels of security and safety at various international events, many of which were hosted during the Covid-19 crisis with strict health and security measures, he observed. “Qatar's efforts culminated in the hosting of the FIFA Arab Cup 2021, which was an important occasion for us for measuring the security, logistical and organisational readiness. It was a real test to measure the quality of security services provided to the public and participants, and we were very pleased with the testimonies of participants from the bodies and organisations overseeing the tournament, as well as the testimony of the participating states, confirming our readiness to make the World Cup the most secure and the safest tournament,” he explained. Maj-Gen al-Ansari reiterated the readiness of Qatar to host the FIFA World Cup, noting that it is a culmination of the continuous efforts made over the past years, which witnessed the development of security strategies and plans based on accurate indicators and best practices that crystallised in the implementation of many programmes, training courses and mock drills. The 'Watan 1' exercise, with the wide participation of  regional and international countries to implement various scenarios, reflected the integration of roles between security, civil and military authorities, to reach the summit of readiness and preparedness, he added. Meanwhile, Brig Ibrahim Khalil al-Mohannadi, head of the Legal Affairs and Communication Unit at the committee, confirmed full readiness for the launch of a safe and exceptional tournament. Joint declaration on International Police Co-operation Centre signed The first day of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Security Last Mile Conference witnessed the signing of the joint declaration on the International Police Co-operation Centre between Qatar and a number of countries and relevant organisations participating in the conference with the aim of exchanging information. Representing the Qatari side, Maj-Gen Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Ansari, head of the Safety & Security Operations Committee for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Brig Ibrahim Khalil al-Mohannadi, head of the Legal Affairs and Communication Unit, and Colonel Khalid Ali al-Kaabi, deputy head of the Legal Affairs and Communication Unit, signed the agreements.