Qatar Unveils National AI Programme To Accelerate Research And Economic Growth

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council have launched the 'Artificial Intelligence for Qatar' programme, a new national initiative aimed at boosting strategic research partnerships and advancing AI-driven innovation across key sectors.

The programme is based on a joint funding agreement between MCIT and QRDI Council and is designed to provide a dedicated platform for researchers, academic institutions, and startups to develop transformative artificial intelligence technologies.

In a statement posted on X, MCIT described the launch as“A step that enhances national research collaboration,” adding that the programme will support the development of advanced AI applications capable of accelerating growth and strengthening Qatar's position as a regional innovation hub.

According to the Ministry, the initiative aims to empower the research and innovation community to deliver impactful, pioneering, and sustainable solutions that make meaningful contributions to Qatar's economic and social development.

The Ministry noted that the initiative aligns directly with the objectives of Qatar's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and reinforces the country's commitment to building a knowledge-based economy driven by emerging technologies. The first cycle for submitting research proposals in the field of artificial intelligence has now officially opened.

The call places particular emphasis on critical national priority areas, especially assistive artificial intelligence in healthcare, education, and tourism.

By focusing on these sectors, the programme aims to foster solutions that directly improve service delivery, operational efficiency, and user experience, while also generating long-term socioeconomic impact.

Eligibility criteria outlined in the announcement specify that the principal investigator (LPI) must be affiliated with an accredited institution in the State of Qatar and hold an academic qualification or its equivalent in the relevant research field.

The applying entity must also be a Qatari institution approved by the QRDI Council.

While collaboration with partners inside and outside Qatar is encouraged to enhance knowledge exchange and expertise, at least one principal investigator must be affiliated with the submitting institution.

MCIT emphasised that the programme provides an integrated funding framework that supports innovative ideas from concept development through to practical application.

“The programme aims to empower the research and innovation community to provide impactful, pioneering and sustainable solutions that contribute substantially to the country's economic and social development,” the Ministry stated.

The submission deadline for the first round of proposals has been set for March 11, 2026. Applications are to be submitted through the designated grants portal, with additional information available on the QRDI innovation platform.

With the launch of Artificial Intelligence for Qatar, MCIT and QRDI Council aim to strengthen collaboration between government entities, academia, and the private sector, positioning artificial intelligence as a catalyst for sustainable development and technological leadership in the years ahead.

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