Hamad Bin Khalifa University and Gates Foundation Sign Landmark Agreement

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) showcased its fast-growing innovation portfolio in emerging technologies at the World Summit AI 2025 (WSAI) held in Doha, reinforcing its focus on research excellence and the responsible development of artificial intelligence (AI) on a global stage.

Recognized as one of the leading platforms for launching AI products and services and as the world’s premier startup and investor network, WSAI gathers the AI ecosystem of enterprises, startups, investors, big tech, science and academia to set the global AI agenda. Building upon its conspicuous participation last year, HBKU’s engagement reasserts the university’s essential role in the regional and global discourse around AI, integrating ethics, while presenting innovation and applied technologies originating from its own research clusters. 

Throughout the Summit, themed ‘Building the Future of AI Together,’ HBKU experts shared insights on critical themes driving today’s AI landscape, ranging from next-generation foundational models and quantum computing to AI-powered platforms that drive entrepreneurship and the pursuit of new solutions to global challenges. Additionally, the university’s flagship Arabic Generative AI platform was upgraded with the launch of Fanar 2.0. The high-end multi-modal AI platform has been further advanced, now including next-level audio-visual capabilities, expanded multilingual support, and a larger model size. With these updates, Fanar has become even smarter, safer and culturally aware, making it suitable for diverse users. 

HBKU’s participation reflects its unwavering commitment and contribution to advancing Qatar’s rapidly expanding AI and emerging technologies ecosystem. With the launch of Qai, Qatar’s AI company launched in late 2025 and underpinned by a landmark $20 billion government investment, Qatar is accelerating its ambition to become a premier global hub for AI innovation. HBKU continues to play a central role on this path by aligning interdisciplinary research, capacity development, and entrepreneurial support with national priorities while shaping global conversations on ethical, secure, and future-ready AI.

“World Summit AI provides an imperative platform to connect research excellence with global significance,” Dr. Ahmed K. Elmagarmid, Executive Director of HBKU’s Qatar Computing Research Institute stated. “AI is reshaping our world in ways we haven’t seen before. As a strategic national research institution, HBKU is committed to driving AI as a transformative force in the country and across the wider region, empowering innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact.”

By engaging on leading global stages, HBKU upholds Qatar’s vision for responsible, inclusive, and forward-looking innovation, demonstrating how impact-driven universities can help guide priorities and solutions in the coming decade and beyond.