On December 9, 2024, Doha, Qatar, hosted the Microsoft AI Tour, a global initiative designed to highlight the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). Held at the Raffles Doha Hotel, the event brought together business leaders, government officials, and technology professionals for a day of learning, inspiration, and collaboration.
The Doha stop, one of over 60 cities worldwide on the tour, focused on the theme “AI for Everyone: AI Innovation Today and Tomorrow.” Attendees participated in keynote presentations, workshops, and hands-on sessions led by Microsoft executives and AI experts. The event reflected Qatar’s ambition to become a global leader in AI innovation.
His Excellency Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, opened the event by outlining the country’s vision for AI-powered growth. He emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing AI projects across key sectors as part of the Digital Agenda 2030. “Qatar has witnessed significant progress in Artificial Intelligence as part of its Digital Agenda 2030…along with fostering knowledge exchange to enrich understanding of cutting-edge technologies.”
Ralph Haupter, President of Microsoft EMEA, highlighted Microsoft’s crucial role in shaping worldwide AI advancements, as well as the company’s dedication to responsible AI. He noted how critical Microsoft’s AI capabilities can assist Qatar in achieving its digital ambitions. “AI is transforming every organization around the world in both the private and public sectors – improving the lives of residents and unlocking economic opportunity.”
The event also included participation from several leading Qatari organizations, including Hamad International Airport, Qatar Airways, and Power International Holding (PIH), which showcased their latest AI solutions. Lana Khalaf, General Manager of Microsoft Qatar, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting Qatar’s AI-driven future. “Our mission is to enable individuals and organizations across all sectors to leverage the transformative power of AI to unlock unprecedented opportunities…Moreover, we are equipping Qatar’s workforce with necessary AI skills and cutting-edge tools.”
The AI Tour in Doha also featured the AI Excellence Awards. Numerous organizations were recognized for successful AI implementations, including the Prime Minister’s Office, Qatar Airways, and Qatar National Bank. The awards acknowledged the transformative impact of these AI deployments across various sectors.
The event also provided sessions focusing on Microsoft’s flagship AI tools, like Microsoft Copilot and Copilot Agents, and also discussed Responsible AI practices. Microsoft experts showcased the innovative AI capabilities of the Microsoft Surface portfolio, including Surface AI PCs and Copilot+ PCs. These solutions are designed to improve operational efficiency and productivity.
The Microsoft AI Tour in Doha demonstrated Microsoft’s commitment to supporting AI adoption in Qatar’s public and private sectors, supporting the nation’s vision for a digitally-empowered future. Microsoft plans to continue collaborating with Qatar as the nation pursues the benefits and potential of AI.
