AGP Executive Report

Gulf Basketball Showdown: Bahrain and Qatar meet in the Gulf Basketball Association (GBA) U18 Championship tonight, with both teams unbeaten; Bahrain have already booked a spot in the FIBA U18 Asia Cup and will be chasing gold at hosts’ home court. World Cup Power Struggle: FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell stakes in future World Cups is sparking backlash, with UEFA warning the tournament is “not FIFA’s to sell” and talk of emergency action and possible boycott growing. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman held calls with Kuwait and Germany, stressing dialogue and de-escalation and urging implementation of the US-Iran MoU, including freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Schools Progress: Ashghal says 80% of a QR4.5bn PPP project to build 14 schools is complete, with the authority pushing for remaining works on schedule. Summer Safety Push: Civil Defence reports fire incidents are down as safety compliance improves, but warns against common risks like overloaded electrics, blocked exits and unattended cooking. Education Support: MoEHE launches “Zad Al-Mubta’ath” to prepare scholarship students for travel, covering cultural guidance, safety, mental health and data protection. Labour Market Milestone: Qatar ranks No. 2 globally in an IMD labour market indicator, citing flexible labour policies and digital government services. Business & Community: Qatar Diamond Exchange joins the World Federation of Diamond Bourses; Qatar Charity backs livelihoods for 380 families in Bangladesh; and Qatar National Library announces a new entrepreneurship and community summer programme starting Aug 2.

Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed spoke by phone with Kuwait’s FM, urging dialogue and stressing implementation of the US-Iran memorandum, including freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, to protect regional security and stability. Energy Security: Qatar strongly condemned drone attempts targeting Saudi oil facilities launched from Iraqi territory, calling it a violation of Saudi sovereignty and international law, and reaffirmed solidarity with Riyadh. Global Spotlight on Qatar: Qatar ranked 2nd worldwide in the 2026 IMD labour market index, citing labour-market efficiency, investor confidence, and digital government services. Business Support: Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry launched a Business Guidance and Establishment Office as a first stop for investors and entrepreneurs, offering help with company setup procedures and directing clients to the right services. Infrastructure Update: Ashghal inspected a QR4.5bn PPP schools project—14 new schools—now at about 80% completion, with work using innovations like 3D printing and modular construction. Aviation Advisory: Malaysia’s CAAM warned travellers to check flight status for West Asia routes as airlines adjust, suspend, or cancel services amid the evolving security situation. Sports & Culture: Qatar Diamond Exchange was admitted to the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, while Qatar’s “Yalla Startups” launched as the country’s first startup-focused radio and multi-platform show.

Qatar–Jordan Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and Jordan’s deputy PM discussed de-escalation and regional stability, stressing diplomacy and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar Rejects Bennett: Doha strongly condemned former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett’s remarks, calling them disinformation and reaffirming commitment to regional peace efforts. QCB Bonds: Qatar Central Bank issued QR2bn government bonds for the Ministry of Finance after bids hit QR5bn, with yields of 4.55% (2028) and 4.70% (2030). QFA Overhaul: Qatar Football Association approved new 2026-27 player registration rules, including removing a past extra-registration exception and adding a pathway for certain resident players to switch status to local. QFA Leadership: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani was appointed QFA president until 2027, with Sheikh Tamim bin Mohammed Al Thani as deputy, alongside approval of a new QSL 3 third-division league. Health & Safety: PHCC warned of higher summer foodborne illness risks; Qatar Charity launched a Somalia health plan for nearly 50,000 people; QSCCB ran emergency and evacuation awareness for persons with disabilities. Weather: QMD flagged a chance of rain in parts of Qatar on Wednesday and Thursday. Sports & Culture: Qatar Goodwood Festival kicked off in the UK with Visit Qatar sponsorship, while Qatar’s U18 team hosts Oman in FIBA Gulf qualifiers. Regional Tensions: Gulf talks focused on protecting navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as Oman and Iran trade proposals over “voluntary fees,” with the US rejecting tolls.

Qatar Bonds: Qatar Central Bank issued QR 2bn in government bonds for the Ministry of Finance, with QR 1bn tap issuance maturing Sep 3, 2028 (4.55% yield) and QR 1bn maturing Aug 24, 2030 (4.70% yield), after bids totalled QR 5bn. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and Foreign Minister joined a GCC consultative meeting on reducing tensions and regional security, focusing on freedom of navigation and safety in the Strait of Hormuz. Health & Innovation: Sidra Medicine administered Qatar’s first Itvisma gene therapy patient for spinal muscular atrophy, while HMC rolled out new Lbaih app services including appointment confirmation and access to radiology reports. Justice Watch: Qatar’s Public Prosecution opened investigations into forged Hamad Medical Corporation medical leave certificates allegedly used to obtain unauthorized leave. Business & Investors: MoCI signed an agreement with Dukhan Bank to let eligible investors open accounts via the MoCI Single Window platform, aiming to speed up company registration. Sports: Qatar’s QFA amended player registration rules for 2026-27, including removing a prior extra-player exception and adding a pathway to change some players’ sporting status. Aviation & Trade: Qatar Airways Cargo expanded freighter and belly-hold capacity, adding new routes and boosting links across Europe, Africa and Asia.

US-Iran De-escalation: Qatar and Pakistan mediators are pushing for a return to talks as the US and Iran keep strikes paused, with Qatar stressing dialogue and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and foreign minister held calls with Saudi, Jordan and Canada, urging de-escalation and implementation of the US-Iran MoU. Sustainability at Ashghal: The Public Works Authority says it has reused 2.5 million cubic metres of excavated material and recycled 300,000+ tonnes of construction waste, boosting Qatar’s circular economy goals. Public Health (Hepatitis Day): Qatar is renewing awareness efforts for viral hepatitis, urging early screening, vaccination and timely treatment. Humanitarian & Legal Aid: QRCS signed contracts for the 13th batch of Palestinian doctors under the Amiri Medical Scholarships Programme, while NCCHT and the Qatar Lawyers Association agreed to strengthen legal protection for trafficking victims. Business & Education: DAAM and the Qatar Social Work Foundation backed a Social Researcher Award; CB and VCUarts renewed a leadership-through-art programme. Sports: Qatar beat Kuwait in Gulf U18 qualifiers; Al Shamal began a Netherlands camp; Qatar’s Scalzone won silver in ISSF trap.

Qatar-Pakistan Security Talks: Doha hosted talks between Qatar’s Interior minister and Lekhwiya chief Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani and Pakistan’s Interior and Narcotics Control minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, focusing on boosting security cooperation and shared concerns. Cyber Skills for Managers: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency ran a Managers’ Workshop on Cyber Protection to help non-technical leaders spot cyber risks and strengthen institutional resilience. Customs Crackdown at Sea: Doha Port and Northern Ports Customs seized 1,650kg of chewing tobacco and 22,005 packs of cigarettes hidden in compartments aboard a vessel. Sustainability Push by Ashghal: Ashghal says it has reused and recycled millions of tonnes of construction waste since 2022, including 2.5 million cubic metres of excavation materials and major recycling of timber, plastic, paper and scrap. Citizenship Rules Published: Qatar outlined four key eligibility requirements for foreigners seeking citizenship, including a 25-year lawful residence period and Arabic proficiency. Airport Retail Boost: Qatar Duty Free opened Aesop’s first Qatar store at Hamad International Airport, with a design-led concept for travellers. Regional Security Update: Saudi air defences intercepted and destroyed drones launched from Iraqi territory aimed at petroleum facilities in the Eastern Region and Riyadh. Qatar Airways Travel Deal: The airline launched up to 25% off Economy return fares from Doha (plus higher discounts in premium cabins) for bookings in late July. Sports—FIBA U18 Gulf Qualifiers: Qatar began the Gulf Qualifiers in Doha with an 80-76 win over Saudi Arabia.

Red Sea Disruption: Bab el-Mandeb ship traffic plunged to the lowest level in months after Yemeni Houthis struck Saudi oil installations, while Strait of Hormuz transit stayed severely restricted, keeping regional shipping and energy routes under pressure. Hormuz Talks Under Strain: Iran rejected any new passage or alternative route through the Strait of Hormuz, setting conditions for talks, as Oman-Iran discussions reportedly progress. Qatar’s Premium Banking: QNB opened a dedicated QNB First premium branch in Msheireb Downtown Doha, expanding its exclusive hub network for high-end clients. Diamond Trade Push: Qatar Free Zones Authority launched the Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE) in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, bringing trading, vaulting, certification and customs under one regulated platform. Diplomatic Moves: Qatar’s Amir received Iraq’s Supreme Judicial Council president; Qatar also held calls with Lebanon and Saudi officials on strengthening Lebanese institutions and regional stability. Community & Inclusion: Purple Saturday returned for a second year, with Qatar Tourism and partners backing accessible experiences for people with disabilities. Health Awareness: PHCC experts warned obesity in Qatar is a major public health challenge, calling for community-wide action. Youth & Skills: NCSA launched its Cyber Security Youth Camp 2026 for about 400 students, with remote participation options for registered learners.

Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy: Pakistan and Qatar are stepping up mediation after the US and Iran reportedly responded to a joint de-escalation formula, with a fragile pause in strikes raising cautious hopes for renewed talks. Maritime Update: Qatar has fully resumed maritime navigation for all vessel types after a two-week suspension tied to Gulf security concerns. Hormuz Safety Talks: Iran says it made progress with Oman on operational mechanisms for safe passage through the Strait, stressing traffic has not changed. Qatar Business & Trade: Qatar Free Zones Authority launched the Qatar Diamond Exchange in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, aiming to bring trading, vaulting, certification and services under one regulated roof. Aviation Oversight: Qatar Civil Aviation Authority shut two travel/air cargo agencies and deregistered 10 others for non-compliance. Finance Talent: QFC and Qatar Finance and Business Academy signed an MoU to build financial-sector skills through internships and industry-linked programmes. Local Governance & Environment: MoECC and Lekhwiya inspected 120 industrial establishments in Industrial Area 57 for environmental compliance. Sports Spotlight: Neeraj Chopra says he’s not obsessed with 90m every throw, prioritising gold and consistency as he heads to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Diplomacy & Boycott Pressure: Qatar welcomed the Netherlands and Belgium bans on Israeli settlement products, urging more countries to follow and calling it a key step to deter settlement policies. Regional Stability Talks: Qatar’s PM met Egypt’s FM to discuss bilateral ties and de-escalation efforts, including implementing the US-Iran MoU for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Security & Aviation: A hoax bomb threat led RAF Typhoons to escort a Qatar Airways flight to Manchester; a 14-year-old is assisting police and authorities said there was no danger. Local Economy & Trade: Qatar Chamber signed an MoU with Portugal’s industrial association to boost business cooperation and investment links. Agriculture Spotlight: The 11th Local Dates Festival opened at Souq Waqif with 125 farms, running until Aug 10. Health Awareness: Qatar Cancer Society launched a month-long campaign on blood cancers and the importance of early detection. Sports: Qatar beat Kyrgyzstan to return to Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group III. Youth & Skills: Ashghal and Qatar Scientific Club wrapped up the “Future Engineer” programme, training secondary school students.

Qatar-Portugal Business Ties: Qatar Chamber signed an MoU with the Portuguese Industrial Association (AIP-CCI) to boost trade, investment and company links between the two countries, with a focus on market research, consultancy and business delegations. Qatar-US Security Cooperation: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Qatar partners launched International Remote Baggage Screening for Qatar Airways’ Doha–JFK route, aiming to strengthen pre-departure checks. Regional De-escalation Talks: Qatar’s Prime Minister and FM met Egypt’s top diplomat to review bilateral cooperation and stress dialogue, including implementing the US-Iran MoU on freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Aviation Alert In UK: RAF Typhoons intercepted a Qatar Airways flight to Manchester after it “caused concern” to civil authorities; the issue was resolved and the plane landed safely, with the threat later found to be a hoax. Maritime Update: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport said maritime navigation can resume fully for all vessel types from Sunday, with safety and security rules to be followed. Middle East Tensions: Iran said its strikes will continue until the enemy is “fully defeated,” while Bahrain and Kuwait were reported to have carried out their first direct airstrikes into Iran earlier this month.

Middle East Security: Iran says it carried out drone strikes targeting US military assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, while the US reports missile strikes across Iran after Trump vowed “major military punishment” over Red Sea tensions and Houthi actions. Qatar-UK Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and FM met UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in Doha to push de-escalation and protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing implementation of the US-Iran MoU. Airspace Incident: RAF Typhoons scrambled to escort a Qatar Airways flight (QR23) to Manchester after “concern” was raised by civil authorities; the aircraft landed safely and the issue was resolved. Qatari Connections in Global News: The New York Times reports Trump switched aircraft after a credible Iranian-proxy threat to Air Force One; the Qatari-donated jet is still undergoing security upgrades. Local & Community: Lekhwiya completed specialized security training for Rwandan police (VIP protection, riot control, combat in populated areas). Diplomatic Appointments: India named Dr K Srikar Reddy as its next ambassador to Qatar. Culture & Family: Katara’s ColorVerse indoor attraction continues to draw families during summer.

Qatar-UK Diplomacy: Doha’s Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman met UK Secretary of State Ed Miliband, stressing dialogue and the MoU on de-escalating tensions with Iran, including freedom of navigation at the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Security: Iran says it carried out drone strikes on U.S. facilities in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, while the U.S. continues nightly strikes as the conflict drags on with no clear end. Sports Spotlight: ONE Championship and Visit Qatar renewed their partnership for three more years, bringing major events back to Qatar from March 2027, starting at Aspire Dome on March 26. Qatar Football & Business: QSL and Doha Bank extended their league naming rights until 2030, and Qatar’s payment systems hit 75.135m transactions worth QR99.101bn in June. Culture & Lifestyle: Katara opened “Environment and Life,” featuring 30+ sustainability-themed works made with recycled materials, while Al Arabi Sports Club ran a “Hydrate Your Body” health lecture for summer participants. Local Tech & Transport: MoT and Qatar Society of Engineers signed an MoU on smart transportation R&D, and NCSA released Part Two of a telecom cybersecurity white paper. International Media: In the U.S., the Justice Department withdrew New York Times subpoenas tied to reporting on Trump’s Qatari-donated Air Force One, after a judge challenged the process.

DOHA SPORTS & YOUTH: Qatar’s U-23 football team has been drawn for the 20th Asian Games in Japan, landing in a tough group with South Korea and Saudi Arabia, while Qatar’s U-18 basketball side prepares for Gulf qualifiers in Doha (July 25-30) aiming for spots at the Asian Championship in India. QATAR FOOTBALL BUSINESS: Qatar Stars League and Doha Bank extended their league naming rights and main sponsorship until 2030, with a refreshed league identity. INTERNATIONAL SPORT: Qatar shooter Rashid Al Athba made history by winning individual skeet gold at the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou. LOCAL DEVELOPMENT: The Ministry of Transport and Qatar Society of Engineers signed an MoU to boost smart transportation R&D, road safety studies, and training. EDUCATION: MoEHE launched a fully funded Government Nuclear Engineering Scholarship Programme for 2026-27, with registration open until Aug 15. REGIONAL CONTEXT: Qatar condemned Houthi attacks on a Saudi vessel in the Red Sea as tensions around key shipping routes continue. GLOBAL HEADLINES: In the US, the Justice Department withdrew subpoenas targeting New York Times reporters over security coverage involving Trump’s Qatari-gifted Air Force One after a judge criticized the process.

Red Sea Security: Qatar strongly condemned Houthi targeting of a Saudi ship, calling it a dangerous escalation and a breach of international navigation rules, and urged the UN Security Council to enforce key resolutions on Yemen and freedom of navigation. Air Travel Alerts: Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights to Bahrain and Erbil until July 25, and to Kuwait until July 31. Heat & Safety: Qatar faces very hot weather through the weekend, with temperatures reaching 45–47°C; Kahramaa also urged full compliance with approved technical standards for safe electricity and water connections. Education Updates: MoEHE opened Grade Improvement Service registrations for eligible General Secondary students until July 25 via the Maaref portal, and launched applications for a Government Nuclear Engineering Scholarship Programme (July 1–Aug 15). Local Governance & Services: Qatar University warned the public to rely only on official channels and avoid unverified links. Diplomacy & UN Cooperation: Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam Al Misnad met UN ESCWA’s executive secretary to review sustainable development and humanitarian support. Sports & Culture: Qatar hosts Gulf qualifiers for FIBA U18 (July 25–30) and Visit Qatar returns as presenting partner of the Qatar Goodwood Festival (July 28–Aug 1).

Qatar-EU/Belgium Stance: Qatar welcomed the Netherlands and Belgium bans on Israeli settlement imports, calling it a key step to deter settlement policies that violate international law and Palestinian rights. Education & Youth: MoEHE opened registration for Grade Improvement Service exams until July 25 via the Maaref portal, while the Ministry of Sports and Youth ran “You Can Do It 2026” for teens with kayaking, shooting, and team sports. Sports Calendar: Qatar is set for a packed 2026-27 season, with Gulf qualifiers for the FIBA U-18 Asian Championship in Doha from July 25-30 and Qatari clubs preparing for AFC Champions League Elite from September. Community & Health: Aspetar’s Surgery Observer Programme drew 69 international observers, Qatar Charity completed safe drinking water projects in Nepal benefiting 3,660 people, and Dreema with Mwani Qatar wrapped up the “Little Captain” maritime and logistics programme for children. Business & Finance: QNB reported disciplined execution across innovation and sustainability in its Q2 update, and Doha Bank unveiled a new corporate identity tied to its transformation push. Regional Cooperation: Qatar joined GCC traffic officials’ meetings in Riyadh to advance joint traffic systems across member states.

Middle East Security: Iran and the US traded fresh accusations as the US said it completed its 11th straight night of strikes on Iran, while Iran claimed drone attacks on US-linked targets in Kuwait, including Camp Doha, and warned of wider regional fallout. Aviation Disruptions: The EU’s aviation safety body added Jordan to its no-fly list, urging airlines to avoid Jordanian airspace as the security situation deteriorates, with knock-on effects across the Gulf. Qatar Central Bank & Diplomacy: Qatar’s Central Bank governor met the UAE ambassador to review ways to deepen cooperation in banking and finance. Local Governance & Faith: Awqaf announced winners of the Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani Endowment Award, and concluded an intensive Quranic course in Madinah for Qatari students. Business & Trade: QFC signed an MoU with CCI France Qatar to boost trade and investment links, while Qatar Chamber met Azerbaijan’s ambassador to explore a workshop and new investment opportunities. Qatar Economy Watch: AlRayan Bank posted QR687m net profit for H1, Nakilat reported QR857m net profit for the first half, and UDC logged QR115m net profit in Q2. Sports & Culture: Qatar SC parted ways with French defender Presnel Kimpembe; Qatar Rail wrapped up the Qatar Rail Chess Open; and Qatar’s wrestlers won silver and bronze in Budapest.