Qatar leads the way in adopting AI technology, with its National AI Strategy centered on six key pillars. Advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are reshaping industries, and Qatar stands out globally in leveraging these innovations.
Speaking to The Peninsula during Qatar Travel Mart, Dr. Fethi Filali, Director of Technology and Research at Qatar Mobility Innovations Center (QMIC), highlighted Qatar’s strides toward achieving its National Vision 2030 and the transformative role of AI in the travel and tourism sectors.
Dr. Filali emphasized QMIC’s commitment to using AI to analyze visitor behavior and preferences, enabling personalized tourism experiences while upholding data privacy and ethical standards. “We must ensure transparency in our AI solutions—detailing where data is stored, how it’s managed, and its purpose—while strictly adhering to Qatar’s data protection regulations to build trust and compliance,” he noted.
Discussing AI’s growth, Dr. Filali stated, “AI is set to play a pivotal role in the coming years. Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and its well-defined AI strategy are driving progress by integrating AI into national services, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering innovation. The ultimate aim is to attract more visitors to Qatar while providing them with exceptional experiences.”
Qatar’s National AI Strategy encompasses six focus areas: education, data access, employment, business, research, and ethics. Together, these pillars aim to propel Qatar toward a thriving AI-driven future. By harnessing AI, Qatar seeks to enhance its digital economy, diversify industries, improve transportation systems, and position itself as a global leader in AI applications.
Hamad International Airport (HIA) exemplifies Qatar’s technological advancements, offering seamless travel experiences through smart solutions. “HIA ranks among the best globally in providing travelers with an exceptional journey, from arrival to departure,” Dr. Filali said. The airport continues to expand its offerings, connecting global travelers through its world-class facilities, which cater to both passengers and businesses.
Dr. Filali also highlighted the success of AI Week 2024, held at Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP). The event drew professionals, researchers, startups, and technology enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing Qatar’s position as a hub for innovation and technology. It reinforced QSTP’s dedication to advancing cutting-edge solutions in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, the third National Development Strategy, and digital transformation goals.
During Qatar Travel Mart, Dr. Filali participated in the panel discussion “The Role of Digital and Smart Tourism in Enhancing Traveler Experiences.” The session explored how emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and AR/VR are revolutionizing the tourism industry by delivering more personalized and engaging experiences for travelers.
Reflecting on the event, he remarked, “QTM grows each year, bringing together key stakeholders like Visit Qatar, Katara Hospitality, local hotels, and tour operators, along with international participants showcasing tourism projects. In this era of rapid AI advancements, it is crucial for the tourism industry to embrace AI-driven solutions to provide tailored and unforgettable visitor experiences.”
