Qatar Chamber and UNESCO Explore AI Cooperation
Qatar Chamber and UNESCO have discussed expanding cooperation in innovation, technology, and AI ethics. The talks took place alongside the fourth Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Riyadh.
The forum ran from September 14 to 17, 2026. It brought together government officials, experts, international organisations, academia, and private-sector representatives. Meanwhile, discussions examined AI governance, responsible use, regulation, and skills development.
The Qatar Chamber delegation was led by Mohamed bin Ahmed Al Obaidli. He serves as a board member and chairs the chamber’s Food Security and Environment Committee and Innovation and Technology Committee.
Cooperation Targets Responsible AI Adoption
The discussions examined ways to promote responsible use of emerging technologies across private-sector institutions. Furthermore, Qatar Chamber and UNESCO explored how international standards and principles could support AI adoption.
Both sides highlighted the need for practical business frameworks. These frameworks could help SMEs and startups adopt and deploy AI responsibly and ethically.
The proposed cooperation also covers AI governance and ethics training. The parties also discussed knowledge exchange and joint initiatives for the private sector.
However, the two organisations have not yet signed the proposed agreement. Technical discussions will continue to define areas of cooperation and implementation mechanisms before signing a memorandum.
Al Obaidli highlighted Qatar Chamber’s role in connecting businesses with the wider innovation and technology ecosystem. He also pointed to cooperation among companies, government bodies, academic institutions, startups, and international organisations.
Focus on AI Governance and Skills
The proposed partnership places AI governance alongside business innovation. As a result, the discussions address both the opportunities created by AI and the frameworks needed for responsible adoption.
UNESCO’s forum provided an international setting for these discussions. Meanwhile, participants examined the ethical, economic, and social implications of rapidly developing AI technologies.
The talks also recognised the role of smaller businesses in AI adoption. For SMEs and startups, practical guidance can help translate broad AI principles into operational practices.
In addition, ethics training could support employees and business leaders as AI becomes part of commercial operations. Knowledge exchange could also give private-sector organisations access to international approaches and expertise.
Qatar Chamber’s delegation also attended forum sessions and visited the accompanying exhibition. The exhibition featured projects and solutions related to AI, digital transformation, and innovation.
Qatar Expands Innovation Ecosystem Engagement
The discussions add an international dimension to Qatar Chamber’s work with the innovation and technology ecosystem. At the same time, UNESCO brings expertise in AI ethics, governance, and international standards.
The proposed agreement could create a framework for continued cooperation. Its potential areas include AI governance, ethics training, knowledge sharing, and private-sector initiatives.
For now, the partnership remains under discussion. The organisations must complete technical discussions before finalising the memorandum.
As a result, the next stage will focus on defining specific activities and implementation mechanisms. Any future agreement will clarify how Qatar Chamber and UNESCO plan to support responsible AI adoption among businesses, SMEs, and startups.
