Qatar establishes national AI centre and new digital training department

Qatar has formalised a National Centre for Artificial Intelligence within the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), alongside a separate Digital Capability Development and Training Department. The changes follow the Amir’s ratification of Cabinet Decision No. 34 of 2026, according to Qatar Tribune’s report on 19 October.

The centre reports directly to the Minister. Its responsibilities span national AI strategy, governance, platforms, research and partnerships, including support for organisations adopting AI applications. Its three departments cover strategy, compliance and quality; AI platforms; and partnerships and enablement.

A dedicated role for digital skills

The separate training department reports to the Ministry’s Undersecretary. Its remit includes training programmes, digital competency assessment, career pathways and professional certifications, supported by partnerships with academic and technology institutions.

The decision also provides for coordination between the centre’s AI-skills initiatives and the training department. The decree text reproduced by Al Sharq is dated 2 September 2026. The development follows the Cabinet’s earlier approval of a draft resolution, reported by Qatar News Agency on 3 September 2025.

Building capability alongside AI adoption

Skills development is already an established part of MCIT’s work. Its Qatar Digital Academy supports digital learning through specialised training and opportunities to earn internationally recognised credentials, contributing to the country’s Digital Agenda 2030.

For employers, the new structure highlights the connection between AI adoption, institutional oversight and workforce capability. Introducing AI systems requires people who can evaluate their suitability, understand their limitations and take responsibility for how they are used.

A practical starting point is to map those responsibilities. Who selects AI applications? Who assesses risks and data quality? Who decides when human review is necessary? The answers help identify where training can make a meaningful difference.

Different roles will require different learning paths. Leaders need to understand strategy and accountability. Governance, privacy and risk teams need skills in assessment and oversight. Technical teams need to evaluate, implement and monitor systems. General users need clear guidance on appropriate use and escalation.

For professionals considering structured study, MENA Executive Training’s courses and certifications include AI governance, data management and related disciplines. Its AIGP overview explains how AI governance applies across compliance, risk, law and technology.

The practical goal is to connect learning with decisions at work: selecting suitable tools, recognising risks and knowing when expert or human review is needed.