Doha Design District launches 'Azal' programme to test smart city and sustainability solutions in Doha

Doha Design District (DJD), under the umbrella of Msheireb Properties, has launched the 'Azal' innovation programme, which aims to invite innovators, entrepreneurs, companies, universities, research teams, innovators and specialists to provide ready-made or semi-off-the-shelf solutions that address real-world urban, environmental, economic and social challenges in Msheireb Downtown Doha.

The proposed solutions will be selected in two categories, Innovation and Sustainability, where the winners will receive support, funding, and the opportunity to test and implement their projects in Msheireb Downtown Doha.

Ali Al Hitmi, Director of Innovation at Msheireb Properties, said: "Azal reflects our firm belief that true and meaningful innovation is achieved when ideas go beyond conception and have the opportunity to put them into practice, and by making Msheireb Downtown Doha a platform for the implementation of these projects, we call on innovators and solution owners to contribute practical solutions to the challenges facing cities today. We look forward to discovering ideas that can add value that contribute to shaping a smarter and more sustainable urban experience."

The winners of the Azal initiative will receive awards in two categories: 'Best Smart City Innovation' and 'Best Sustainable Smart City Solutions'. In the first category, 'Best Innovation for Smart Cities', awards will be given to proposals that are able to enhance Msheireb Downtown Doha's efficiency through technology, services, processes, visitor experience, mobility, data or new smart city models, including areas such as artificial intelligence, smart buildings, urban technology, safety, smart services and operational efficiency.

The second category, "Best Sustainable Solutions for Smart Cities", targets solutions that are able to reduce environmental impact, improve resource use efficiency, support the principles of a circular economy, or achieve positive social and societal value.

Participation will be open to startups, entrepreneurs, companies, universities, research teams, innovators and specialists, provided their solutions are ready or semi-ready. The solutions must address challenges related to the smart city and sustainability, and the participant can submit more than one solution and own the intellectual property rights for their proposed project.

Applications will be accepted in Arabic or English from 4 October to 4 November 2026, and applications will be evaluated by a dedicated judging panel, where a number of applicants will be selected from the shortlist of finalists, and the winner will be announced during the Downtown Tech Summit and Best in Business Awards at Barahat Msheireb, with the winning proposals to be implemented in Msheireb City Downtown Doha during 2027.

About Qatar Living:

Since 2005, Qatar Living has been the trusted destination for everything Qatar. As the country's largest online community and marketplace, Qatar Living connects people with opportunities through jobs, property, vehicles, services, classifieds, events, local insights, and breaking news. Trusted by residents, newcomers, visitors, and businesses alike, Qatar Living brings Qatar together in one place.

Instagram - @qatarliving

X - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

YouTube - qatarlivingofficial