Qatar University (QU) and the “CSR" have revealed the details of the Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition 2025, which will be held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, from 28 to 30 April, 2025, at the Student Affairs Building at QU, under the theme “Sustainability in the Digital Age."
During a press conference hosted by the College of Business and Economics at QU and attended by the Dean of the College and Chair of the Conference Steering Committee, Prof. Rana Sobh; the CEO of the Qatar CSR National Program, Dr. Saif Ali Al-Hajari; and a number of representatives from sponsoring and participating entities, Dr. Sobh announced that this year's edition will focus on the intersection of sustainability and digital innovation amid the challenges facing businesses in a rapidly evolving world. She stated, “This year's conference theme, 'Sustainability in the Digital Age,' reflects the growing importance of integrating digital technologies into responsible business practices—from AI-based sustainability solutions to tech-enhanced circular economy models. The summit will demonstrate how institutions can harness the power of technology to create lasting social, environmental, and economic impact through a rich agenda of panels, interventions, and workshops delivered by top experts and academics from business schools worldwide, as well as participating local and international institutions."
She also noted the involvement of a range of academic and humanitarian institutions, most notably the academic partner, the Middle East and North Africa Business Schools Alliance for Sustainability (MEBAS), launched by the College of Business and Economics at QU in October of last year. MEBAS includes 15 accredited business schools in the region. Other key partners include the global partner, UNESCO, and the knowledge partner, the International Labour Organization (ILO), among others. A significant turnout of experts from various universities across the Gulf and Middle East is also expected.
For his part, Dr. Saif Al-Hajari stated, “We are proud of our partnership with QU and the patronage of the Prime Minister for the third consecutive year. Together, we are building a platform to enhance social impact in Qatar by engaging both the public and private sectors. This initiative benefits both our communities and businesses alike. We warmly invite everyone to attend the conference's insightful sessions and encourage more companies to launch impactful CSR initiatives in Qatar and apply for the Qatar CSR Awards next year if unable to do so this year."
In addition to academic and scientific discussions, the event will serve as a platform for leading national companies in CSR to showcase their programs and activities, as well as share best practices in aligning social responsibility with business profitability. The conference and accompanying exhibition will feature broad participation from governmental, semi-governmental, and private sector organizations, all committed to the vital role of CSR in shaping the future of society and business.
The list of sponsors and participants includes government partners, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Defense, and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). The official sponsor and bank is QNB Group; the diamond sponsor is Al-Rayan Bank; the hospitality partner is Katara Hospitality; the community impact partner is Qetaifan Projects; the gold sponsor is Lulu Company; the silver sponsors are Aamal Company Q.P.S.C., Al-Faisal Holding, Carrefour, and Apparel Group; the bronze sponsor is Qatar Cancer Society; the exclusive water sponsor is Rayyan Water; the responsible technology sponsor is Talabat; the sustainable construction partner is Gulf Crafts; the production partner is Dallah Holding Group; and there are many others.
Mr. Abdullah Mohammed Arbabi, Senior Manager – CSR of QNB Groups, said, “QNB is proud to sponsor the Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition as the official bank for the third consecutive year as part of our support for the National CSR Program and in alignment with our CSR initiatives, contributing to the Qatar National Vision 2030. We hope the event provides a unique opportunity for all of us to explore and discuss key CSR practices and sustainability challenges and propose effective solutions for integrating environmental, economic, and social objectives into the business models of national and private institutions, as well as the financial sector. We also hope this sponsorship positively contributes to the success of the event and the advancement of CSR in our institutions."
On behalf of Qetaifan Projects, Sheikh Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani, Head of the Business Development Department at Qetaifan Projects, stated, “Our main contribution to the Qatar CSR Summit reflects our commitment to Qatar National Vision 2030 through sustainable projects on Qetaifan Island North, which serves as a living model of sustainable development. Key among these is Meryal Waterpark, the region's largest waterpark, along with family-focused entertainment areas. This planned island aims not only to improve quality of life for residents and visitors but also to boost local tourism, generate employment, and support knowledge-based urban development."
Mr. Rashid bin Ali Al-Mansoori, CEO of Aamal Company Q.P.S.C., said, “We thank QU for organizing this important conference that highlights the significance of CSR and its role in societal development, environmental preservation, and fostering collaboration among institutions toward sustainable development. We are honored to be among the sponsors of the Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition 2025. Participating in this event is not only a responsibility but a testament to our commitment to corporate citizenship. At Aamal, we believe in the potential of companies to drive positive change. This conference provides a platform to exchange ideas, connect with peers, and learn from diverse experiences. Together, we can leverage our resources and expertise to address social and environmental challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future."
Regarding Katara Hospitality's first-time sponsorship, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed Al Asmakh, Managing Director of Asset Management – Residential Units, said, “This sponsorship highlights our commitment to our Qatari roots and supporting the local community. The event provides an ideal platform to showcase our dedication to developing local talent and contributing to national economic growth through tailored training programs for promising Qatari graduates. In collaboration with QU, we've also launched an initiative to encourage young Qataris to enter the hospitality sector. Our organization promotes interdisciplinary training that develops multi-skilled, passionate individuals. We believe we can contribute positively to Qatar's social and economic well-being, helping to build a thriving society that reflects the country's values and goals. Through our participation, we aim to demonstrate Katara Hospitality's commitment to CSR as a leading company serving the community."
Ms. Salma AbuObeida, CSR Manager at Apparel Group, said, “Apparel Group's interest in the Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition underscores our deep commitment to CSR and establishing diverse collaborations with other stakeholders. The group continues to pursue positive environmental and social impact through partnerships with key players in Qatar, such as Qatar Red Crescent and Qatar Charity. Across the region, we uphold long-term sustainability practices by promoting ethical conduct, reducing waste, and raising awareness of the importance of sustainability among both individuals and businesses."
According to the organizers, the Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition serves as a central platform for local and international experts and professionals in CSR to explore how institutions can use CSR to integrate economic, social, and environmental goals into their work. It emphasizes the important role that companies, institutions, and the private sector can play in developing the communities in which they operate and how they can take on a more impactful social role.
Mr. Haidar Mshaimesh, General Manager of IFP – Qatar, which is organizing the event, stated, “The conference seeks to achieve several key objectives, primarily raising awareness about the critical role profit-driven companies and institutions can play across all levels of society. It also aims to bring leading global CSR experiences to the region while respecting local values, encourage institutions to embed CSR into core business strategies aligned with sustainable development goals, present innovative technology-driven sustainable solutions, emphasize the importance of digital transformation in CSR, and inspire participants to take actionable steps toward responsible business practices that contribute positively to society and the environment."
The Qatar CSR Conference and Exhibition 2025 is part of the twelfth season of the National CSR Program at QU, one of the core programs of the CSR Initiative Foundation. As in previous years, this year's program includes, in addition to the conference and exhibition, the release of the Qatar National CSR Report and the Qatar CSR Awards. Mr. Jack Saba, General Manager of the CSR Initiative Foundation, announced that the official Qatar CSR Awards Gala Dinner will take place on the evening of April 30 at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. He added that the organizing committee has received around 140 nominated initiatives, from which 40 will be selected for awards in various categories, in addition to recognizing sponsors and supporters of the event.