Leading UK Researcher Puts GCC Science and Technology Under The Microscope

Published January 17th, 2007 - 12:51 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Oxford Business Group (OBG), the UK-based publishing, research and consultancy services company, has linked-up with Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) to launch a unique online briefing report called ‘Technology Insight’.

OBG, who produces the world’s most insightful economic, political and business annuals, and recently launched ‘Emerging Qatar 2006’, is tying up with QSTP to develop monthly online briefings which outline the latest developments in the GCC’s fast paced technology sector.

The first ‘Technology Insight’ briefing takes a fresh look at the Kyoto Protocol and its impact on the GCC. According to the online report, some scientists have projected that rising sea levels could mean that by 2050 Egypt’s northern coast will be underwater; however the briefing also outlines ways in which GCC countries are responding to the threats of global warming

Cristina Franco, Senior Country Manager, OBG, said the new industry briefings are a response to demand from the business community and foreign investors for greater insight into key science and technology issues impacting the region, and the need for informational tools which will allow them to make informed decisions.


“The partnership with QSTP will ensure OBG’s research and analysis remains relevant, innovative and forward looking, as we now have the opportunity to work with an expert partner looking to investigate the specific scientific and technological advancements in the region, within a broader macro economic framework,” said Franco.

QSTP was established by Qatar Foundation in 2004 as a home for technology-based companies from around the world and an incubator of start-up enterprises.  Its purpose is to facilitate the development of Qatar's knowledge economy.

“Building knowledge-based business here in the Gulf requires dialogue and debate on technology issues.  It also requires critical analysis of trends that impact on tech companies, and this is where ‘Technology Insight’ will make a real difference.  After all, it’s hard to develop the technologies of tomorrow when you don’t have a firm grasp on the issues of today,” said Ben Figgis, Marketing Manager of QSTP.

‘Technology Insight’, which is now available online to OBG subscribers, is the first time the consultancy has teamed-up with a research partner to produce a sector specific briefing.

OBG's publication ' Emerging Qatar 2006 ' provides comprehensive overviews and analysis of the country's political and macroeconomic environment , as well as trends in all the major economic sectors including banking capital markets insurance , I.T. and telecom, real estate and construction, tourism, energy and media .
About Oxford Business Group

Oxford Business Group (OBG) is a UK-based publishing, research and consultancy services organisation. OBG publishes economic and political intelligence on the markets of The Middle East, Eastern Europe, North and South Africa, and Asia. Through its range of print and online products, OBG offers comprehensive and accurate analysis of political, macroeconomic and sectoral developments, including banking, capital markets, energy, infrastructure, industry and insurance.

Written by a team of seasoned analysts, based on the ground for six months, the critically acclaimed series of economic, political and business reports have become the leading source of intelligence on the rapidly developing countries in the regions they cover. OBG’s online economic briefings provide up-to-date in-depth analysis on the issues that matter for thousands of subscribers worldwide. OBG’s consultancy arm offers tailor-made market intelligence and advice to firms currently operating in these markets and those looking to enter them.

About Qatar Science & Technology Park

Qatar Science & Technology Park fosters the development and commercialisation of technology in Qatar, a rising star in the Arabian Gulf with the world’s third largest gas reserves and a remarkable vision for human development.  As part of the renowned Qatar Foundation, founded by the country’s Emir, the science park is co-located with campuses of Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, Texas A&M and other premier universities.  It provides research-friendly premises for companies from around the world, plus an incubator and investment for technology start-ups.  Already EADS, ExxonMobil, Gartner Lee, GE, iHorizons, Insitut de Soudure, Microsoft, Q-Cert, Rolls-Royce, Shell and Total have joined Qatar Science & Technology Park. Its first phase of buildings opens late 2007.
www.qstp.org.qa