IFP Qatar announced the 20th edition of Project Qatar, the leading construction trade exhibition, running from May 27-30, 2024, at DECC. Under the patronage of Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Ashghal, details were revealed at a press conference at the Sheraton Grand Doha.
The event attracts 120 international companies from 25 countries and 130 Qatari companies, supported by major governmental, semi-governmental, and private sector entities. Key sponsors include the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ashghal, Qatar Tourism, Qatari Diar, Qatar Development Bank, Al Sraiya Holding Group, Nask Chemical Solutions, Imar Group, Aamal, Sahand Industrial Group, QTerminals, GORD, GOIC, Oriental Trading Company, and Gulf Crafts, along with numerous print and digital media partners.
The 20th edition of Project Qatar marks a major milestone in the evolution of Qatar’s premier construction trade exhibition. As the largest and longest-running event in the industry, it celebrates two decades of innovation, collaboration, and progress. Project Qatar has set the benchmark for excellence, providing a dynamic platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies, exchanging knowledge, and forging strategic partnerships. Each year, it grows in scope and significance, attracting global exhibitors and visitors.
In this regard, Haidar Mshaimesh, General Manager of IFP Qatar, said: “The 20th edition of Project Qatar represents a culmination of achievements and milestones, highlighting the exhibition’s pivotal role in driving growth, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of the construction sector. It is a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking approach of all stakeholders involved. As we celebrate this special milestone, we not only honor the past successes of Project Qatar but also look ahead to an exciting future filled with new opportunities and possibilities.”
Mshaimesh noted that: “The 20th edition promises to be a landmark event, offering exhibitors and visitors alike a unique platform to explore the latest trends, network with industry leaders, and contribute to the continued advancement of the construction industry. This year’s Project Qatar is poised to address emerging segments and environmental concerns as the global focus shifts towards green and smart manufacturing. The key areas that the exhibition and the accompanying conference will highlight include sustainable construction materials such as recycled content, low-carbon concrete, sustainable timber, and energy-efficient insulation as well as a range of renewable energy solutions designed to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency in construction projects. It will also feature smart building technologies including intelligent building management systems, IoT-enabled sensors, automation solutions, and energy-efficient HVAC systems in addition to green infrastructure such as green roofs, permeable pavements, rainwater harvesting systems, and urban green spaces.”
He added: “Overall, Project Qatar is expected to showcase a diverse range of innovative solutions and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability, resilience, and environmental stewardship in the construction industry. By addressing emerging segments and environmental concerns, the exhibition plays a crucial role in driving the transition towards a greener and smarter future for manufacturing and construction.”
On behalf of Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Hamad Mohammed Al Nasr, Assistant Director of Trade Development and Investment Promotion, said: “International trade exhibitions play a pivotal role in promoting trade exchange both locally and internationally. Project Qatar is one of the most prominent exhibitions in Qatar that plays this role, given its enduring legacy and distinguished record of attracting a large number of international companies every year. Therefore, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is sponsoring this year’s edition of the exhibition to support this type of events that unlock new trade opportunities and enhance investment ecosystem in the country.”
For the second year, Project Qatar features ‘Qatar Industries,’ showcasing the Qatari industrial sector to an international audience, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. The 20th edition highlights the growth of Qatar’s manufacturing sector and focuses on smart manufacturing technologies, featuring advanced tech providers for industrial production.
Commenting on their first-time participation as a Gold Sponsor of the exhibition, Rashid Al Mansouri, CEO of Aamal Company Q.P.S.C., said: “It is truly a pleasure to be part of this edition of Project Qatar, among other local and international industry leaders, which is a great opportunity for Aamal to showcase its latest products, services, and technologies through its subsidiaries to this exhibition’s diverse audience of industry professionals.”
He added: “Since its establishment in 2001, Aamal has played an active role in diversifying Qatar’s economy away from the hydrocarbon industry, with its diversified, resilient business model, and market leading positions across 32 active business operating across four business sectors; Industrial Manufacturing, Property, Trading & Distribution, and Managed Services.
As this year marks Project Qatar’s 20th anniversary, our presence underscores our commitment to being at the forefront of the development of the industrial manufacturing, engaging with industry leaders, learning about the latest innovations and trends.”
In turn, Muhieddine Al Jamal, Business Development Manager at IMAR Group, said: “We are pleased to participate in this special edition of Project Qatar as a Gold Sponsor for the first time ever. IMAR Group will present a wide range of construction services, including general contracting, interior fit-out, landscape, water technology, construction material, lighting, hospitality supplies, FF&E, ELV, AV, among others.”
He added: “IMAR Group, established in 1995, has grown to become one of the largest privately held construction company spanning across four countries, Lebanon, Qatar, Kuwait, and KSA. The group’s team of 7,000 staff and construction specialists uses state-of-the-art technology and equipment to handle all aspects of the building process. Therefore, Project Qatar represents an ideal platform to enhance partnerships and explore available opportunities.”
Anastasia Volokhova, Brand Strategy Manager at GulfCrafts, emphasized the company’s shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable products, with a focus on recycling. GulfCrafts offers five business lines: signage & wayfinding, bespoke gifts & awards, bespoke accessories, PVD coating, and large format printing. At the event, they will showcase their latest innovations to strengthen their presence in the Qatari market.
The four-day conference will address key issues in construction, industry, sustainability, and the environment. Day one will focus on significant projects and investment opportunities in Qatar, featuring speakers from Ashghal, the Ministry of Transport, and the Qatar Free Zones Authority. Day two, titled “Towards a Climate-Resilient Future,” partnered with GORD, will cover sustainability and climate change, concluding with GORD’s “Eco Champions” awards ceremony honoring eco-innovation pioneers in Qatar.
Commenting on this partnership, Dr. Yousef Al Horr, Founding Chairman of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), said: “Over the years, Project Qatar has emerged as a leading platform within Qatar’s construction and real estate sectors, fostering synergies and collective advancement across various industries. Our engagement at the 2024 edition of Project Qatar transcends mere participation. This year, we are taking an active role in hosting the second day of the event’s conference titled ‘Towards a Climate-Resilient Future: GORD’s 15-Year Legacy of Environmental Stewardship.’ During this half-day knowledge-sharing conference happening on May 28, GORD’s leading climate experts will share invaluable insights on ways our forward-looking solutions can help accelerate decarbonization for projects and businesses alike. As we celebrate GORD’s 15-year commitment to sustainability, we will also honor the individuals and entities whose dedication has significantly shaped our progress towards low-carbon development.”
The third day, titled “Towards Smart Manufacturing,” in collaboration with GOIC, will focus on recent developments in manufacturing and logistics, exploring the latest Industry 4.0 trends, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Commenting on this, Abdul Karim Ahmed Al Rashed, Strategic Planning Consultant at GOIC, said: “The organization is participating for the second consecutive year in “Project Qatar”, enabling stakeholders, including experts, researchers, investors, and decision-makers in the industrial sector, to benefit from our services and programs. This aligns with our vision and mission to drive industrial and economic development in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.”
According to the organizers, IFP Qatar will host an Awards Ceremony to recognize local and international companies for their vital role in the ongoing success of Project Qatar.