Qatar University (QU), represented by the Center for Entrepreneurship and Organizational Excellence (CEOE) at the College of Business and Economics, concluded the 7th International Conference on Entrepreneurship for Sustainability and Impact (ESI). The event, held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, featured the presence of H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and collaboration with Qatar Chamber and the Institute of National Planning. The Qatar Central Bank (QCB), Qatar National Bank (QNB), and Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council sponsor the conference as gold sponsors, and Qatar Airways and Sadou Design are bronze sponsors. This year's theme, “Redefining Business in the Era of the AI Revolution," reflects the transformative influence of artificial intelligence on global business.
The conference serves as a premier platform bringing together researchers, experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss innovation and entrepreneurship amid the profound changes driven by artificial intelligence. It aims to present actionable recommendations for policymakers and foster collaboration between academia and the private sector to address societal challenges, focusing on sustainability in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.
AI has revolutionized the business landscape, reshaping problem-solving and decision-making across industries. In this context, the conference gathers leading academics, experts, and entrepreneurs to explore the significant impacts of AI on various sectors. Topics include climate change solutions, the circular economy, AI's role in logistics and entrepreneurship, digital finance, retail, accounting, higher education, and more.
In his remarks, Dr. Omar Al-Ansari, President of QU, emphasized the importance of adopting advanced technologies in business development. “QU reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation and international entrepreneurship through knowledge generation that supports a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. We strive to prepare an innovative generation to address institutional and societal challenges while contributing to Qatar's sustainable development," he stated. Dr. Al-Ansari highlighted this year's conference focus on AI's strategic role in achieving sustainable development and societal impact, alongside the release of the 8th Arab Planning Institute Report, titled The Role of Data Availability in Supporting Development in Arab Countries. We extend our gratitude to the sponsors and everyone who contributed to organizing this exceptional event."
Dr. Rana Sobh, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at QU and the conference chair, remarked during the opening session, “We are delighted to host the 7th International Conference on Entrepreneurship for Sustainability and Impact under the theme Redefining Business in the Era of the AI Revolution. This theme captures the immense challenges and opportunities AI presents for the future of business and societies."
Dr. Sobh underscored the conference's role as a global platform for academics, experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss cutting-edge innovations and strengthen ties between academia and various industries. “At the College of Business and Economics, we remain dedicated to advancing research and providing innovative solutions to societal challenges in line with Qatar National Vision 2030's emphasis on sustainability and innovation." She stated.
Dr. Sobh added, “Through this conference, we aim to highlight practical applications of AI and its impact across sectors, fostering constructive dialogue to develop strategies that contribute to a sustainable future. We extend our gratitude to H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani for his generous patronage and to all participants and organizers whose efforts have made this event a success."
Dr. Said Al-Banna, Director of the CEOE at QU and co-chair of the conference, highlighted the significance of the event. “This conference opens doors to exploring the evolving business landscape in the age of AI, attracting over 450 research papers from more than 50 countries. This global interest underscores the importance of integrating technology with sustainable business practices while preserving core human values amidst rapid technological advancements."
Dr. Al-Banna noted that the conference dedicates a full day to training PhD students on modern research methodologies and connecting them with future opportunities, contributing to the development of young researchers. Additionally, a dedicated session for industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs focuses on AI applications across diverse sectors. Dr. Al-Banna also highlighted the exceptional launch of the 8th Arab Planning Institute Report during the conference, emphasizing the importance of statistical data in supporting economic and social development in Arab countries.
Conference sessions addressed various topics, including AI's role in new ventures, climate change solutions, the circular economy, and the economic and social dimensions of AI. Discussions also covered AI-driven innovations in supply chain management, their impact on financial services and fintech, and their role in enhancing customer engagement in digital marketing and retail. Other sessions examined AI's influence on accounting accuracy, fraud prevention, and efficiency, as well as its transformative role in higher education and organizational change management in the digital era. The conference featured case studies showcasing real-world applications of AI in entrepreneurship and stories of success, underscoring its practical potential.
The Entrepreneurship for Sustainability and Impact (ESI) conference, organized annually by QU's CEOE, has been a leading event in sustainability and entrepreneurship in the Middle East and North Africa since 2014. Attracting researchers and experts from around the globe, this year's conference reflects the significance of the themes it addresses, especially amidst rapid technological advancements worldwide.
Dr. Rana Sobh concluded by expressing her gratitude to the sponsors, saying, “I extend my thanks to Qatar Central Bank (QCB), QNB, QRDI Council, Qatar Airways, and Sadou Design for their sponsorship of this conference. Special thanks to Qatar Chamber, the Institute of National Planning, the Arab Planning Institute, Visit Qatar, and all participants and organizers for their efforts in ensuring the success of this event."