Qatari-Saudi forum aims to empower SMEs in light of regional developments

A recent webinar aimed to bolster regional cooperation and bolster the preparedness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to navigate the shifting regional and global landscape. Organized by the Qatar Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the Saudi Arabia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the Qatar Development Bank, the virtual event centered on strategies to help SMEs adapt to emerging regional changes that influence supply chains, trade, and financial flows.

Key topics included national measures to safeguard business continuity, regional collaboration to bolster corporate resilience, and the impact of regional developments on business environments and supply chains. The discussions also highlighted cutting-edge technological solutions such as digital payments, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and smart logistics to enhance SMEs' readiness and responsiveness to evolving circumstances.

Dr Abdulaziz Khalid al-Ali, Managing Director of the Qatar Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, stressed that the collaboration between the Qatar and Saudi Arabia Centres, alongside the Qatar Development Bank, underscores the significance of sharing knowledge and expertise to empower SMEs. He noted that SMEs are integral to the economic ecosystem, and enhancing their adaptability requires collaborative efforts, knowledge sharing, and the judicious application of technology.

The webinar served as a platform for dialogue among government bodies, the private sector, experts, and specialists, aiming to foster a comprehensive exchange of policies, practices, and technological solutions. By doing so, it sought to reinforce SMEs' resilience and their capacity to adapt to both regional and international developments, ultimately contributing to their preparedness and ability to thrive amidst change.