Satyendra Pathak

Doha

United Development Company (UDC), the master developer of The Pearl and Gewan Islands, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, to foster collaboration on innovative and sustainable solutions in real estate development.

This strategic partnership, announced during Cityscape Qatar 2024, is a milestone in UDC’s ongoing efforts to integrate smart technologies and sustainable practices into its developments. The MoU was signed by UDC President, CEO, and Member of the Board Ibrahim Jassim Al Othman, and QSTP President Dr Jack Lau.

This partnership aims to further enhance The Pearl and Gewan Islands as premier destinations for living, working, and entertainment by focusing on technological advancements, research in sustainability, and the implementation of smart city solutions. By integrating advanced technologies, the collaboration seeks to deliver a high-quality, eco-friendly lifestyle for residents while contributing to Qatar’s national environmental and sustainability goals.

In his remarks, Al Othman highlighted the alignment of this MoU with UDC’s vision of creating sustainable, technologically advanced communities. "This MoU aligns with UDC’s vision of creating sustainable, technologically advanced communities that meet the evolving needs of our residents and investors. Through this partnership with QSTP, we aim to leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance the quality of life in The Pearl and Gewan Islands, while also contributing to Qatar’s national environmental and sustainability goals,” he said.

The collaboration will explore initiatives such as the development of smart, sustainable cities, capacity building through training programmes, and research and development aimed at fostering sustainable innovations. The MoU will ensure that these initiatives are implemented efficiently, bringing environmentally friendly solutions that will benefit both residents and investors by improving resource management and operational efficiency.

Emphasising the significance of the partnership in advancing Qatar’s technological ecosystem, Jack Lau said, "At the heart of our mission is the commitment to foster innovation that contributes towards the advancement of a vibrant technological ecosystem in Qatar. We are delighted to collaborate with UDC, a leader in the real estate sector, to jointly explore opportunities for advancing smart city solutions that will create more sustainable environments.”

The partnership is expected to yield sustainable, high-tech solutions, including smart energy management, waste reduction systems, and advanced digital infrastructure for The Pearl and Gewan Islands. The collaboration promises to enhance amenities and create a modern, eco-friendly living experience for residents, while also generating new investment opportunities in sustainable urban development.

A highlight of Day 2 of Cityscape Qatar 2024 was the esteemed visit of the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani to UDC’s pavilion. During the visit, the prime minister was introduced to UDC’s cutting-edge smart technologies and immersive experiences.

Additionally, the UDC president participated in a key panel discussion at the 2nd Qatar Real Estate Forum, where he shared insights into real estate investment opportunities. His participation reinforced UDC’s strategic vision and its commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Qatar’s thriving real estate landscape.