In conversation with QH, Zeyad Al Jaidah, managing director and co-founder of Techno Q talks through the start of the company’s journey, reflecting on where the company is now with its thrust on service quality.
QH: What inspired you to co-found Techno Q in 1996?
Al Jaidah: The Techno Q story started 28 years ago, and we’ve achieved remarkable milestones since. My partner and co-founder Abdulla Al Ansari and I met while studying Mechanical Engineering in the United States and were heavily inspired by the home theatre systems we had in America at the time. This spark was the catalyst that led us to setting up a showroom in Salwa Road when we returned to Qatar. Although this initial venture did not go quite as expected, it paved the way to securing our first big client who wanted a customised advanced audio system and control system for his new palace. Since then, we’ve expanded at an astonishing rate, harnessing the momentum of Qatar’s rapid digital transformation and becoming one of the region’s leading regional Systems Integrator specialising in Audiovisual, Extra Low Voltage, Broadcast Infrastructure, IT Business Solutions, Lighting Systems and Hospitality Solutions. As of June 26, 2024, we are also proud to say we have become the fourth company to list on the Qatar Exchange Venture Market (QEVM) – a historic feat for Techno Q and the local market alike. What started as an opportunistic venture has transformed into one of the region’s greatest entrepreneurial success stories and today, with over 350 professionals and a sprawling operational base of 3,000m², Techno Q is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance.
QH: What key strategies have driven Techno Q’s growth?
Al Jaidah: When all is said and done, we really have just one strategy and that is to deliver excellence. From a modest showroom to listing on the QEVM – is neither accidental nor coincidental and is largely due to our commitment to delivering on each project we’ve been entrusted with. Over the years, we’ve worked with a range of clients across numerous sectors including corporate, education, government, healthcare, hospitality, and public venues. Our impressive project portfolio has also extended into the world of sport and includes the design and execution of cutting-edge race electronics for the most premier international racing competition here in Qatar and the creation and setup of sophisticated security access control systems for several football stadiums for Qatar FIFA 2022.
As of June 26, 2024, we are also proud to say we have become the fourth company to list on the Qatar Exchange Venture Market – a historic feat for Techno Q and the local market alike.
QH: How do you build and maintain international partnerships?
Al Jaidah: At Techno Q we are big on values, and we strongly believe in using integrity as our main compass and guiding star. Building our business on core pillars such as commitment, quality and competence has allowed us to not only anchor our relationships but also grow our portfolio of partners. At their core, business relationships are the same as personal relationships in that they rely on respect, communication and trust to thrive – our ability to provide such ethics while simultaneously delivering tangible and positive results for our partners means we can build enduring and mutually beneficial partnerships that drive long-term success for all parties involved. This strategy has proven successful, and we will continue to implement it as we embark on our next chapter as a public company on the QEVM.
QH: What challenges have you faced in expanding Techno Q?
Al Jaidah: Oil prices fluctuate and this can impact government spending. Since Qatar’s economy is closely linked to oil prices, a decrease in government spending usually means there are fewer projects. During periods of increased government spending, Techno Q grows and prospers. However, when spending declines, we tend to experience slight stagnation. While this is a challenge for all companies, it also provides incentives and opportunities to think outside the box. At Techno Q, we are actively seeking to expand beyond Qatar and into other countries, such as Saudi Arabia, to secure new projects and ensure continued growth for our company, stakeholders and investors alike.
QH: How does Techno Q continually enhance quality and service?
Al Jaidah: When we kick started Techno Q, we did not have any project references – nobody in Qatar was doing what we were doing, and so it was difficult to draw out the path as first-time entrepreneurs. However, with every challenge there is an opportunity and I strongly believe this helped catapult Techno Q into the company it is today. The lack of local references means we have always looked to the international market for product offerings, always allowing us to be at the forefront of the local market. This outward looking culture empowers us to provide the most innovative and cutting-edge solutions to our customers and clients here in Qatar. Technology is always evolving, and it is crucial for any tech or solutions-based company to remain agile and aware of the latest trends to see how they can be incorporated into services and products. Recently, we entered the Fintech space through a new partnership with SkipCash, through which we aim to introduce seamless, secure, and highly efficient payment solutions tailored specifically for the hospitality industry. This collaboration not only enhances payment experiences for guests but also streamlines operations for hospitality businesses, reducing processing time and increasing customer satisfaction. As a leading systems integrator, we take our commitment to technology and innovation very seriously. We also firmly believe that by continuously evolving and embracing new technologies like AI, we can stay true to our mission of delivering the highest standards of excellence and staying ahead in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Short Shots
Favourite travel destination: During winter, Istanbul captivating, or hitting the slopes at a ski resort. In summer, nothing beats being by the sea, and Bodrum in Turkey is my top pick for sun-soaked relaxation
Most favourite book: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
Project of pride: Two in particular: showroom project for Alfardan BMW; our very first endeavour for the Prime Minister when Techno Q began
Best advice received: Pursue what brings you joy. Dedicate yourself fully to your endeavours and put in your best effort. Ultimately, believe in yourself and your abilities
Unwinding after a long day: Playing my favorite online game, World of Warcraft
