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Research & Innovation Nexus 2026

Qatar University Annual Research Forum and Exhibition 2026

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Theme
Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence:
Aspirations and Challenges


About the Forum

The Annual Research Forum and Exhibition at Qatar University brings together students, researchers, academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to share insights, showcase innovations, and address pressing societal challenges through research and partnerships.

It provides Qatar University (QU) with a platform to demonstrate how it addresses community challenges through pioneering research and strong partnerships with industry, institutions, and research centers. Through these collaborations, QU advances research-driven learning, discovery, and entrepreneurship. The Forum also empowers faculty and students by connecting them with partners and opportunities that maximize the impact of their work.

In addition, the event will showcase QU’s award-winning and impactful research that embodies the University’s vision, supports Qatar’s national research priorities, and contributes to the broader goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

This year’s high-profile Forum will be centered on the theme: “Digital Transformation & Artificial Intelligence: Aspirations and Challenges.”

Venue and Date

Date: Tuesday, 28 April, 2026
Venue: Qatar University – Student Affairs Building (I11)

The event will feature Opening Remarks by Distinguished Guests and Speakers, including the QU President and Vice President for Innovation.

Highlights of the day will include the inauguration of the Research & Posters Exhibition, the presentation of Research and Innovation Awards, and two dynamic Panel Discussions centered on this year’s theme.

Keynote Speaker

His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology

Panel Discussions

This year’s forum features two insightful panels exploring the forefront of digital transformation and artificial intelligence:

  1. ​Building Qatar’s AI Ecosystem: From Education to Innovation

    Under the theme “Building Qatar’s AI Ecosystem: From Education to Innovation,” this panel will examine how AI is reshaping academic research, educational practices, and the innovation ecosystem.

    Discussion Points:

    • Advancements in AI methodologies across education
    • Integration of AI into research practices
    • Promotion of innovation through the adoption of AI-driven tools, platforms, and solutions
  2. Economic Potentials of AI

    This panel will delve into the economic opportunities offered by AI, examining its potential to enhance productivity, drive innovation, create new business models, and stimulate economic growth across industries and markets.

    Discussion Points:

    • How AI can increase productivity and efficiency across different sectors.
    • Opportunities for innovation and creation of new business models through AI.
    • Strategies for industries and governments to leverage AI for sustainable growth.

Agenda

Tuesday, 28 April, 2026
08:00 – 08:30 VIP Arrival, Reception & Registration
08:30 – 09:00 VIP Exhibit Opening & Tour
09:00 – 09:05 Opening Address by H.E. Dr. Omar Mohammed Al-Ansari, President, Qatar University
09:05 – 09:25 Keynote Speech (TBC)
09:25 – 09:45 “State of Research and Graduate Studies” by Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, Qatar University
09:45 – 10:00 Sponsors Recognition and Research Excellence & QU Innovation Awards Ceremony
10:00 – 10:30 Networking Break & Exhibition Visit
10:30 – 11:30 Panel I: Building Qatar’s AI Ecosystem: From Education to Innovation
11:30 – 12:30 Panel II: Economic Potentials of AI
12:30 – 13:00 Research Posters Awards, Visualization Challenge, Graduate Studies and Undergraduate Research Conference Awards Ceremony