QATAR - Telecoms & IT
Editor-in-Chief, Gulf Times
Bio
Faisal Abdulhameed Al-Mudahka is the Editor-in-Chief of the Gulf Times. He was also a financial and administration advisor at the office of the CEO of Qatar Media Corporation from 2015-2021. He also held the position of director of protocol in the office of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of the board of directors of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development from 2005-2007. He holds an Executive MBA in global business perspective from HEC Paris University.
Qatar stands as a focal point in the Middle Eastern arena. In 2022, it hosted the globally renowned FIFA World Cup, and in the past year events such as the Formula One, and MotoGP, establishing itself as a hub for sports enthusiasts. Currently, the Doha Forum and the Gaza mediation further underscore Qatar’s significance. Our country has hosted talks between the CIA, Mossad, and Hamas. The Gulf Times, as a prominent regional newspaper, takes a leading role in keeping the public informed about the developments in Qatar. Looking ahead, we envision a comprehensive transformation of the Gulf Times. It will evolve beyond a traditional newspaper into a multifaceted media platform. Our approach will incorporate more events for content creation, and we are set to launch a podcast with a unique perspective. This podcast will delve into economic and social topics that resonate with people. We aim to provide opinions by collaborating with both international and local writers who capture the public’s interest.
Emphasizing the credibility of information sources is a top priority for us. During the World Cup, Qatar faced a barrage of propaganda. Misinformation can originate from influential individuals or a cyber army, and our team is well-trained to detect and address such instances. Fostering awareness is crucial to our approach. Gulf Times is embarking on a comprehensive relaunch, incorporating new technology. As one of the region’s earliest English newspapers, we envision our brand extending beyond its traditional role. We see ourselves as a dynamic media platform, ready to embrace the evolving landscape.
If you do not tell your story, someone else will. Right now, Qatar is being attacked in the media for participating in the mediation between Israel and Hamas. There was also misinformation circulated during the World Cup, but we were able to deflect this through news and policy. In the last 10 years since Qatar was awarded the World Cup, the country could have ignored its weaknesses; however, Qatar decided to reform many policies relating to the labor law, housing, and more. Many things have changed, and there is an open platform to write about it. In today’s media landscape, the importance of telling your own story is evident, considering the impact of misinformation. Fake news can be a dangerous weapon. Despite Qatar facing media scrutiny, especially concerning its role in mediating between Israel and Hamas, we remain steadfast in our commitment to transparency. Some entities seek to undermine Qatar’s mediation efforts by spreading misinformation, resorting to bullying tactics and pressure; however, Gulf Times has successfully countered such narratives through accurate reporting and sound policy discussions.
I am inherently positive and optimistic, and when it comes to Qatar, the foundation is solid with a five-star infrastructure. Our transportation network includes trains, and the Doha airport serves as a gateway with 40 million passengers arriving from around the globe. Direct flights to over 10 locations in the US, as well as connections to China, Japan, and Australia, highlight our central location. The hardware is in place, and now the focus is on connecting the dots to establish a business-friendly environment within a harmonized ecosystem. My optimism is grounded in the projected 40% increase in gas production surplus in the upcoming years. Qatar, actively participating in mediation efforts, maintains a diplomatic stance in conflict situations. We have historically assisted in various global dialogues. The GCC has been successful together and will continue to survive and work as an ecosystem, with the region’s connectivity set to expand further with initiatives like the Qatar and Bahrain causeway, additional flights to neighboring countries, and the introduction of trains.
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QATAR - Energy & Mining
Interview
VICE PRESIDENT – NORTHERN REGION (QATAR, IRAQ, KUWAIT, AND JORDAN), EMERSON AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS