“Qatar and America: Reliable Partners” · 1 About QAI The Qatar-America Institute (QAI) is an independent, nonproit, research institute that hosts an open space to convene, facilitate

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2 0 1 8 A N N U A L R E P O R T

“Qatar and America: Reliable Partners”

Introduction

Events

Community Outreach & Sponsored Events

Digital & Published Content

Press & Media Engagement

Board & Advisors

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About QAI

The Qatar-America Institute (QAI) is an independent, nonprofit, research institute that hosts an open space to convene, facilitate cross-cultural exchange, and develop educational research on the political, economic, social, and cultural ties between the United States and the State of Qatar.

As a research and community forum, QAI works proactively to educate and provide, through study and analysis, the facts and interests that guide both U.S. and Qatari partnerships; and to encourage peaceful dialogue to enhance cooperation and strengthen the enduring relationship and friendship among the Qatari and American people.

To promote a better understanding of Qatar in the United States, QAI serves as a community forum for discussion, research, and collaboration. QAI is uniquely positioned to provide a space for open dialogue, debate, and the proliferation of ideas to educate the American and Qatari people on the political, economic, and social issues that bridge the two nations and the vital importance of the U.S.-Qatar strategic relationship.

QAI Programs

Programmatically, QAI enacts its mission through various, diverse community initiatives and partnerships, cross-cultural professional exchanges, research material and educational resources. QAI’s activities and resources are centered around the following encompassing themes:

• Culture and The Arts

• Human Rights & Civil Society

• National Security & Counterterrorism

• Economy & Energy

• International Relations

• Education

QAI believes cultivating cultural and civic understanding and awareness of both regions is paramount in promoting and strengthening the relationships between the Qatari and American people. Doing so through various programs and initiatives, including ongoing community events and cultural exhibitions throughout the United States; inviting both Qatari and American community members, academics, activists, and thinkers to join in open dialogue and exchange.

QAI 2018 Annual ReportIntroduction

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QAI Activities and Initiatives

• Community Engagement: • QAI engages communities through events and opportunities that bring together different

groups of people, ranging from influential leaders to young professionals, with various interests and backgrounds to learn more about Qatari culture and strengthen community ties between Qatar and the U.S. Through its connections in both countries, QAI expands its reach by facilitating dialogue through food and art festivals, as well as after-work networking opportunities.

• Art Exhibits and Artist Talks:• QAI provides varying art and culture series featuring Qatari and American creatives and

cultural experts to display and speak about their creative work to inspire and promote the cultural richness of the regions.

• Salon Dinners:• QAI regularly hosts private dinners tailored to subject matter expertise and attendees in

intimate, open conversations to discuss views and policies.

• Educational Material and Resources:• QAI routinely produces resources such as reports, expert video series, and factsheets,

to provide factual and simplified information on a variety of topics pertaining to the U.S.-Qatar partnership.

• Cross-Cultural Professional Exchange Trips: • Exchange trips to Qatar serve to demonstrate to key Americans the U.S.-Qatar relationship

by facilitating direct engagement with Qatari civil society, academic, faith, and cultural institutions and leadership. While each delegation is different, they all enable critical dialogue on issues affecting the American and Qatari people and promote important relationship-building that enhances bilateral trust and cooperation.

• Network Building and Engagement: • QAI maintains and supports a variety of networks of community members from the

two countries and hosts cross-cutting events in order to solidify and formalize these relationships, giving opportunities for members and friends of these organizations to network and identify areas for synergistic cooperation.

QAI 2018 Annual ReportIntroduction

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E V E N T S

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QAI 2018 Annual ReportQAI Events

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On May 8, 2018, the premiere of Ruwad was hosted in Washington, DC. Several of the artists of the collection were in attendance, and the exhibition received much praise from guests and local artists. The opening reception for Ruwad included many prominent Washingtonians, such as curators from local museums, prominent local and foreign artists, former diplomats, and other influential individuals within the DC arts scene.

The premiere was a festive event complete with the full art exhibition on display, live traditional Middle Eastern music, and remarks provided by former U.S. Ambassador to Qatar and Chairman of the Board of Directors for QAI, Mr. Chase Untermeyer, as well as two of the artists in attendance.

Ruwad Qatari Art Pop-Up Gallery in

Washington, DC

Following the opening exhibition, May 9 – May 15, the artwork featured in the Ruwad premiere was moved to a unique gallery space in the heart of Washington’s trendy Dupont Circle neighborhood. The Ruwad gallery was made open to the public. This one-week installation attracted numerous passersby who had never before seen or engaged with Qatari art.

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Islam, Ramadan & America

QAI debuted its iftar series with a presentation on the rich history of Islam in the United States as led by Amir Muhammad, President of the American Islamic Heritage Museum. This inaugural iftar not only commemorated the beginning of Ramadan, but also focused on the history and traditions of Islam in the United States since the nation’s founding, as marked by the debut of the “Islam in America” photo gallery in the QAI office which lasted the month of Ramadan.

Ramadan Iftar Series

Throughout the holy month of Ramadan, QAI, with the support of Gulf Bridge International, hosted a series of iftar events in downtown Washington, DC. These Iftars served as educational opportunities for those not familiar with the traditions of Ramadan – or Islam in general – providing them an opportunity to witness them in an open and educational setting. QAI hosted four iftars total, each highlighting an individual theme: the history of Islam in America, interfaith commonalities, family heritage, and the shared traditions of Ramadan and Islam.

Islam & the World Religions

QAI hosted Rabbi James Hyman of the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington, Imam Talib Shareef of the historic Nation’s Mosque, and Reverend Steven Martin of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. All three engaged in a discussion about faith, fasting, and the commonalities between the three religions. The three speakers shared some remarks on the importance of fasting for means of achieving higher levels of spirituality, a

practice that is referenced in all three religions.

Islam & the Family Traditions

QAI’s third iftar focused on both Islamic and Qatari traditions and heritage. Specifically, it revolved around the role of Islam in the family, examining both the dynamics between family members, especially in regard to women and children. This night also highlighted the ADAMS Center’s young American Muslim choir (ADAMS Beat) and a traditional Qatari celebration for children celebrated in Ramadan called “Garangao.” “America the Beautiful” and

“Ramadan Ya Habib,” (or “Ramadan O, Beloved”) were sung by the choir.

Islam, Culture & the Arts

QAI’s last iftar of Ramadan featured Ramadan rituals, like henna, Arabic calligraphy, and oud music, but also traditions of Muslim holidays and Eid Al-Fitr, the closing event of Ramadan. Imam Yahya Hendi, the Muslim Chaplain at Georgetown University, educated the audience about Ramadan’s goal and the true meaning of Iftar. “The word Iftar comes from the word open. To open our hearts & minds. Iftar everyday reminds me that the sky’s the limit. To dream and think big. That Jews, Christians, and Muslims can come together!”

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QAI Salon Dinners

Each of these private dinners hosted twenty very senior members who engaged on highly important topics regarding the U.S.-Qatar partnership. These intimate dinner discussions centered around unique topics: Prominent Women in Leadership, Energy and Energy Security, Science and Education, and Regional Peace and State-Building.

Key attendees included: the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Gulf Affairs, the former CEO of National Geographic, the former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Central Asia, the former CEO of the United Nations Foundation, a former Special Assistant to the President for Communications Research and Special Projects, a former Senior Director on the White House National Security Council, among many other esteemed guests.

Qatar-America in New York City

During the week of September 24, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted several events in New York City focused around education, science, technology, culture, innovation, and the Qatar-America partnership. The week-long series of events gathered key Qatari leaders in various fields to engage in conversations aimed at broadening the cultural and economic relationship between the United States and Qatar.

The events themselves provided attendees an opportunity to network, learn about the vital U.S.-Qatar relationship, Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, have candid discussions with senior Qatari officials who are at the forefront of the remarkable and ongoing transformation within Qatar, and build a Friends of Qatar network in New York City.

These events also symbolize QAI’s foray into a new city as QAI begins to export its programming outside of Washington, DC to connect with new audiences and bridge new relationships. From networking events to receptions hosted at the World Trade Center, the events were well received by a growing New York network of individuals interested in the partnership between the U.S. and Qatar.

• Qatar Networking Breakfast

• “Celebrating Qatar’s Academic Partnership” Alumni Reception• “From Doha to Silicon Valley: Delivering Qatar’s Vision for Knowledge

Economy” PanelThe public events hosted throughout the week took a variety of forms, from a panel discussion on science and innovation in Qatar to a networking event celebrating Qatar’s committment to education. Each of these events hosted many experts and influencers local to New York who learned much about Qatar’s involvement in education, science and technology, and were successful in providing a platform for engagement and candid conversation between senior experts and those interested in learning more about the U.S.-Qatari relationship. Some of the events were recorded on video and compiled into reports so that larger audiences can access the content from the events themselves.

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Creativity & Power: The Intersection of Art &

Politics

On February 28, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted the founder of The Institute of Arab & Islamic Art, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid al-Thani. The lecture was moderated by QAI’s Cultural Advisor, Diana Untermeyer. During his lecture, Sheikh Mohammad, addressed the foundations of his institute, his views on art, and the aims his institution is striving to achieve. Sheikh Mohammad also discussed the concept of cultural exchange and the impact that it has had on the development of art within various Islamic societies.

Counter Illicit Financing Panel

On January 31, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted a Counter Illicit Finance Panel Discussion with experts from both the U.S. and Qatar to discuss trends, challenges and strategy in the region. This all women panel focused on the overall requirement for focused anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing actions in a systemic approach, the details of Qatar’s leadership in regard to these efforts, and connected national security issues. The panel included Dr. Reem Al-Ansari and Dr. Vanessa Neumann and was moderated by Aziza Mohammed of the World Bank.

QAI Hosts Illinois State Society Reception

On the evening of February 28, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted the Illinois State Society’s chapter in Washington, D.C. for a celebration of Illinois’ proud history of welcoming Southern African-American migrants during the Great Migration. The event occurred at the conclusion of Black History Month and featured two current and one former House congressional members. Current Congressman Brad Schneider, keynote speaker

Congressman Danny Davis, and former Congressman Jerry Weller.

Human Rights in the Gulf: A Conversation with Dr. Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri

On March 13, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute (QAI) hosted the chairman of Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), Dr. Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri. The NHRC was established in 2002 and functions as an independent n o n - g o v e r n m e n t a l organization. The discussion was moderated by QAI’s Executive Director, Paul Hamill. The discussion focused on two

main issues: the impact that the GCC blockade has had on the rights of Qatari citizens and the work being done by the Qatari government to ensure the rights of migrant workers in Qatar.

“Ruwad: the pioneering contemporary

arts of Qatar” Finale SocialOn August 08, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted the Ruwad Finale Social, a traveling art exhibit featuring emerging and established artists from Qatar. The exhibit first premiered in Washington, DC on May 8th, 2018 and culminated in this week’s finale social with over 100 attendees at QAI’s headquarters in Washington, DC. The guests enjoyed a special viewing of diverse artworks from Qatar as well as remarks from a member of QAI’s advisory board and guest of honor, Dr. Mohamed Al-Mulla.

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Northwestern University Alumni Reception

On April 18, 2018, QAI hosted the Northwestern University alumni for a Qatar Food Festival event. The event featured speakers Adrienne Lawrence, President of the Northwestern University Club of Washington, DC, and former Congressman Jim Kolbe, a Northwestern alumnus. Adrienne Lawrence discussed the history and recent progress at the Northwestern University branch in Doha, and Congressman Kolbe shared details of his recent trip to Doha and spoke about the importance of the U.S.-Qatar

strategic relationship.

Cornell Club of Washington Alumni Reception

On April 24, 2018, QAI hosted the Cornell Club of Washington for a delightful evening featuring Qatari food and interesting conversation. The event featured speakers Annalise Schoonmaker (a recent Cornell graduate who worked at the Weill-Cornell Campus in Education City, Qatar), Terry Horner (President of the Cornell Club of Washington), and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (of New York’s 12th Congressional District).

Qatar Reception with VCU Alumni

On July 12, 2018, alumni from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) visited QAI for Qatari and Mediterranean cuisine, networking, and a special presentation from two recent graduates who participated in the leadership exchange program at the VCU campus in Qatar. The night began with a warm welcome from Josh Hiscock, the Associate Vice President of Alumni Relations at VCU, who discussed the impactful role of the exchange program that sends sixteen students every year to Qatar.

Georgetown University Alumni Reception

On March 16, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute recently hosted various Georgetown University alumni and students for a Qatar Food Festival event. The event featured speakers Paul Horvath, CEO of Orchard Global Capital Group, and former Congressman from Florida’s 18th district Patrick Murphy, a fellow at the Georgetown University Institute of Politics. Paul Horvath discussed the constructive and vital role that Georgetown University played in facilitating diplomacy with U.S. and Qatari leaders in the midst of the diplomatic blockade, and Congressman Murphy shared details of his recent trip to Doha and lauded the rigorous curriculum maintained on Georgetown’s Doha campus.

University Alumni Events

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Expressions Artist Talk Series with Dr. Mohana Rajakumar

On July 18, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted Qatar-based author Dr. Mohana Rajakumar for the Institute’s inaugural Expressions Artist Talks Series. This program aims to amplify American voices whose creative works are inspired by their experience with Qatar. Dr. Rajakumar, a South-Asian who grew up in America who currently resides in Qatar, is a professor at the VCUarts Qatar campus in Doha and the author of various books in the romance, crime, and academic genre. The highlights of her presentation included her research on Qatari culture for her books, including the role of the majlis in Qatari society, life in Qatar, the importance of global literature, the effects of the blockade on expats, and the Emir’s role in making expats feel included.

Expressions Artist Talk Series with Sandra Bell Wilkins

On September 18, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted the former chair of the Fashion Design department of Virginia Commonwealth University - Qatar (VCU-Q), Sandra Bell Wilkins, for a discussion on the history of fashion in the Middle East and the intersection between the functionality of fashion and regional culture. Ms. Wilkins also commented on her personal experiences teaching in Qatar, highlighting the various changes that Qatari society has experienced during her 20 years teaching at Education City.

Expressions Artist Talk Series with Anissa Helou

On October 22, 2018, Anissa Helou visited the Qatar-America Institute as a guest speaker for QAI’s Expressions Artist Talk Series. Ms. Helou is a world-renowned chef, food writer, journalist, broadcaster, consultant and blogger focusing on the cuisines and culinary heritage of the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa. At QAI, she discussed the various influences on her work, the impetus behind her joining the field, and her impressions & perspective on how food influences culture and vice versa.

The Expression Artist Talks Series is a recurring public artist talk featuring a guest speaker who shares their own inspirations, experiences, and overall stories about Qatar while allowing full engagement with the audience about their inquires, reflections, and thoughts.

Business Opportunities in Qatar

On September 12, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute co-hosted a briefing on business opportunities in Qatar with the US-Qatar Business Council (USQBC), the NAACP, and the Congressional Black Caucus Institute (CBCI). The event was opened by the head of the US-Qatar Business Council, former U.S. Ambassador and Assistant Secretary of Eastern Affairs at the State Department, Anne Patterson. Amb. Patterson’s opening remarks were followed by introductory remarks by Mississippi’s 2nd District Congressional representative, Bennie Thompson and followed by a joint panel discussion held by the Chief Project Officer of the Qatar Financial Center, Kamal Naji, and the Managing Director of the USQBC, Mohammad Barakat. Remarks were also given by the President of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, who stressed the importance of taking advantage of opportunities stemming from Qatar’s modernization and diversification efforts, as well as the upcoming 2022 World Cup.

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More than Sand, Sea, And Sky

On September 12, 2018, QAI’s Cultural Advisor and author Diana Untermeyer took part in a discussion in Houston at the World Affairs Council. She discussed Qatar and the rapid changes that it has undergone and highlighted the nation’s

cultural richness. Ms. Untermeyer’s discussion delved into the details of her book,“Qatar: Sand, Sea, and Sky,” which documents her many years residing and traveling within Qatar, and tells the story of Qatar’s rapid journey from hardscrabble subsistence to thriving modernity. Her talk featured the stories of women, Qatari youth, and politics, as well as her passion for Arabian horses.

Qatar-America in San Francisco

On September 21, 2018 QAI attended the opening of the DeYoung’s Contemporary Muslim Fashions Exhibition in San Fransisco, CA. The exhibit showcased 80 fashion pieces and 40 photographs of garments

from established and emerging designers from all across the Muslim world, including several Qatari fashion icons and designers. The exhibition’s “grand finale” is dedicated to Her Highness Sheikha Moza bin Nasser Al-Misnad, with four distinctive outfits from her fashion collection. Diana Untermeyer, QAI’s Cultural Advisor, facilitated the loans between the Qatari designers and participants and the exhibition team, and QAI’s Director of Development & Senior Fellow for Culture, Fatima Al-Dosari, managed the outreach of the opening through social media.


Honorary Reception of Tomorrow’s Youth Organization

On October 30, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute was proud to host and honor Tomorrow’s Youth Organization (TYO), an American organization supported by the Qatar Fund for Development working to support community, non-formal education, women’s empowerment, and youth entrepreneurship in Palestine, at a special happy hour reception at QAI’s headquarters in Washington, DC.

QAI Soccer Socials

Qatar-America Institute hosted multiple intimate and casual FIFA World Cup 2018 Soccer Socials at its headquarters in Washington, DC throughout the month of June. Friends of QAI were invited to gather in celebration of football (soccer) and the global community in QAI’s special World Cup fan zone. Guests enjoyed a free viewing of select World Cup games on QAI’s HD media wall while networking and connecting with peers and friends on sports, while learning more about Qatar’s World Cup 2022 plans.

Midwestern State Societies Meet & Greet

On September 06, 2018, QAI hosted the leadership of the Midwestern State Societies for a Meet and Greet event. Former Illinois congressman Jerry Weller provided the opening remarks. The state societies involved were the following: Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Kansas. The leadership of these state societies enjoyed Qatari food and cuisine, as well as delightful conversation.

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C O M M U N I T Y O U T R E A C H &

S P O N S O R E D E V E N T S

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QAI 2018 Annual ReportQAI Community Outeach & Sponsored Events

DC Vets Group

On January 30, 2018, QAI hosted a group of veterans from the DC Vets Group at the Capital One Arena Suite during a game between the Washington Wizards and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The DC Vets Group is a DC-based non-profit that offers holistic programs for veterans and their families to achieve economic empowerment through education, entrepreneurship, and employment. Veterans that attended had once served under the umbrella of CENTCOM, with one even stationed at the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington

On January 23, 2018, QAI hosted several teens from the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington for the WWE Smackdown live event. The teens who attended were awarded the tickets for having completed the most community service hours of their group. It was a great, fun-filled evening that Qatar-America hopes to do again.

St. Colomba Episcopal Church

On February 20, 2018, the Qatar-America Institute hosted several members from the St. Colomba’s Episcopal Church Youth Group. The young members enjoyed an exciting game between the Washington Capitals and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

America’s Islamic History Museum – Mentorship Program

On March 27th, 2018, QAI hosted a youth mentorship program from America’s Islamic Heritage Museum & Cultural Center (AIHM) at the Capital One Arena to watch the Washington Wizards game against the San Antonio Spurs. The AIHM is a non-profit organization that was established in 1996 and focuses on preserving and fostering educational community engagement programs and exchange opportunities to better understand the history of Muslim Americans.

QAI Hosts Washington Latin Charter School

On April 10, 2018, QAI hosted teachers and administrators from the Washington Latin Public Charter School to watch the Wizards vs. Celtics game.

QAI Hosts Brightwood Panthers

On June 03, 2018, QAI welcomed the Brightwood Panthers girls’ basketball team to the Capital One Arena for the WNBA match between the Washington Mystics and the Connecticut Sun.

QAI frequently hosts members of the local Washington, DC community for events at the Capital One Arena in an effort to give back to the community, but to also engage the groups about the Qatar-America partnership through discussion and informational handouts.

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QAI frequently hosts members of the local Washington, DC community for events at the Capital One Arena in an effort to give back to the community, but to also engage the groups about the Qatar-America partnership through discussion and informational handouts. During Q3, QAI hosted several groups, including: Georgetown University Law Center Students, John Hopkins SAIS University Students, members of the Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP) group, as well as senior leaders at an intimate Paul Simon concert.

Sponsored EventsQAI, in accordance with its mission, seeks to be a forum for open and candid discussion. In that spirit, QAI opens up its space to several groups so that organizations may host events that deal with the Middle East and broader aspects of international relations. The events entail small group discussion, led and organized by the respective organization. On August 29, 2018, QAI hosted the Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP) cyber and technology discussion group for a screening and discussion of the documentary film “Zero Days,” and again on September 5, for a discussion on the future of Afghanistan with Colonel Christopher Kolenda, PhD.

“One Night, One Goal” with DC Scores On October 4, 2018, QAI proudly sponsored the “One Night One Goal” fundraiser for DC Scores – the official youth soccer club of D.C. United. The event took place at Audi Field, the new home of Major League Soccer team D.C. United. Event attendees were joined by special guests, including: D.C. United forward Wayne Rooney and his teammates, head coach Ben Olsen, Maryland Congressman John Delaney, and executives from the Audi Group. The fundraiser featured tours of the new stadium, specialty cocktails and cuisine from Jose Andres’ ThinkFoodGroup, and a live auction, including a broadcast with

Dave Johnson, a new Audi R8, and tickets and roundtrip airfare to see Chelsea vs. Manchester United. The event raised $320,000 for DC Scores, which will help in supporting enormous sports activities and programs throughout the year.

“Knock Out Abuse” Gala Sponsorship On November 1, 2018, Qatar-America was proud to stand against domestic violence with Knock Out Abuse (KOA) as an “emerald champion” sponsor of their 25th-anniversary gala and auction. QAI contributed to the event by donating a set of box seats to a concert featuring the Dave Matthews Band. QAI was able to raise $15,000 through the donation and contributed to the gala’s mission of creating a future with zero tolerance towards domestic violence.

The left image is of the ad that was placed in the gala program which highlighted Qatar’s efforts againt domestic violence and its progess in regard to women’s rights in the region.

During Q4, QAI hosted several groups:

• On November 03, the Qatar-America Institute hosted several young professionals from the corporate offices of Meryl Lynch for an exciting game of the Washington Capitals.

• On August 09, the Qatar-America Institute partnered with Luke’s Wings to host a group of wounded veterans and their families for a game between the Washington Wizards and the Los Angeles Clippers. Luke’s Wings is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting wounded and ill U.S. veterans and their families, which this year marked its tenth anniversary.

• On November 07, the Qatar-America Institute hosted a diverse group of students and

alumni from Georgetown University for the season-opening basketball game of the Georgetown Hoyas. In a close match, the Hoyas beat the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks 68 to 53.

QAI 2018 Annual ReportQAI Community Outeach & Sponsored Events

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D I G I T A L & P U B L I S H E D

C O N T E N T

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QAI Fact Sheets

QAI frequently publishes fact sheets that provide an overview of topics covering the U.S.-Qatar relationship and topics relating to culture and relations in Qatar. The following are the fact sheets published in 2018:

QAI 2018 Annual ReportDigital & Published Content

Qatar Katrina Fund:Overview & Statistics

This fact sheet provides an overview and breakdown of the relief efforts Qatar conducted after the crisis Hurricane Katrina caused in 2005. From housing funds to medical assistance, this document covers how the funds of the Qatar Katrina Fund were allocated to help these American communities in need.

Top 10 Facts About Qatar

You Should Know:This fact sheet compiles the top facts about Qatar and the U.S.-Qatar partnership. From economic partnerships to joint counterterrorism efforts between the two nations, these are the important facts highlighting the many ways the United States and Qatar benefit from their strategic relationship.

Top 10 Facts About the

2022 World Cup in Qatar:

This fact sheet covers the work being done by Qatar’s, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and consists of everything from the format of the tournament, the stadiums being used, and other key facts about the next World Cup in 2022 that will be hosted by Qatar.

The U.S.-Qatar Strategic

Dialogue:The Strengthened and Expanded

Bilateral Relationship

This fact sheet summarizes the events, agreements, and progress made during the inaugural Strategic Dialogue, between the governments of Qatar & the US, that was held in Washington at the end of January.

Ceasing the Illegal Blockade:The U.S. Stands with the People of

Qatar

This fact sheet, in conjunction with the “U.S.-Qatar Strategic Dialogue” fact sheet, focuses on the events of the inaugural Strategic Dialogue, specifically the remarks made by senior officials from both governments that encouraged the use of diplomacy to resolve disputes and American support for Qatar during tensions with its regional neighbors.

Labor Reforms & Migrant

Rights in Qatar:

This fact sheet focuses on workers’ & migrant rights in Qatar that have improved rapidly in the last few years due to institutional changes taken by Qatar. The factsheet expands on Qatar’s serious approach to the issue of workers’ rights and the manner in which it has engaged international critics to improve its legal framework.

Women’s Rights & Leadership Roles in

Qatar:

This fact sheet focuses on Qatar’s long-established history and interest in pioneering the way for social reforms at home and in the region, especially when it comes to women’s education and empowerment. Fact sheet covers basic demographic information regarding women in Qatar and their role within Qatari Society.

Building A Shared Future:

Qatar’s Investments in the United States

This fact sheet covers Qatar’s International Investments through the Qatar Investment Authority. The fact sheet also focuses on Qatari investments throughout the United States and the contribution it has made to Qatari economy.

Qatar’s Efforts on Anti-Money Laundering

and Counter Terrorism

Finance:

This fact sheet covers the work being done by Qatar to stop money laundering and terrorism financing via new legal frameworks and committees aimed at monitoring and regulating financial dealings.

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Labor Rights in Qatar:

Top Facts

This fact sheet focuses on workers’ rights in Qatar that have improved rapidly in the last few years due to institutional changes taken by Qatar. The factsheet expands on Qatar’s serious approach to the issue of workers’ rights and the manner in which it has engaged international critics to improve its legal framework.

Ramadan Mubarak!:

Fact Sheet & Keywords

This fact sheet provides an in-depth overview of the holy month of Ramadan, explaining many aspects of the holiday, from the iftar to other traditions shared by Muslims around the world. The document also defines various terms and keywords commonly associated during the month of Ramadan.

Qatar’s Changing Economy and National

Vision 2030:

This fact sheet covers the launch and progress of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) – a development framework identifying the societal challenges facing Qatar and the government’s national priorities and plans to face them. The fact sheet addresses the challenges in QNV 2030 range from tangible and measurable issues like sustainable economic growth and environmentalism to abstract problems like loss of cultural heritage and family strength.

A Global Steward: Qatar’s Humanitarian Aid

This fact sheet covers Qatar’s humanitarian responses throughout the globe. The information presented discusses Qatar’s firm belief in its mission to help the people of the world by providing: natural disaster and post-conflict relief and rebuilding, humanitarian assistance, refugee support, youth empowerment, community development, and quality education.

An Open Door on Worship:

Qatar and Freedom of

Religion

This fact sheet covers the religious demographics of Qatar’s population, Qatar’s religious history and culture, as well as the various religious freedoms that the nation allows to be practiced freely.

A Priority for Academia:

Higher Education in

Qatar:

This fact sheet focuses on Qatar’s history of building academic institutions and organizations in an effort to provide access to higher education to its citizens and people around the world.

Qatar’s Domestic Sustainability Efforts:

This fact sheet covers the work being done by Qatar to create sustainable systems in regard to resource conservation, sustainable infrastructure and design, and societal innovations that drive future generations of sustainably-conscious citizens.

“History of Art in Qatar” Poster:This poster was created to highlight the history of art in Qatar for use on display at the QAI Ruwad exhibition opening, as well as on display at the Ruwad pop-up gallery in Washington, DC. This poster covers how art grew in Qatar, from early textiles to the now diverse museum offerings of the Qatar Musuems.

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U.S.-Qatar Bilateral Relations Posters:

QAI produced several posters for display at its events that depict quotes from many esteemed members of American and Qatari leadership speaking to the U.S.-Qatar relationship, or highlight various Qatari cultural heritages. In addition to these posters being prominently displayed for guests, they can be found on QAI’s social media and website.


QAI Digital Web Campaigns

QAI produced several digital web campaigns throughout the year that promoted various engagements, like the Ruwad Pop-Up Gallery that was open to the public in Washington, DC during May, or targeted informational ads that shared facts about the U.S.-Qatar partnership. These campaigns were highly effective in driving traffic to QAI’s events or resources that they were linked to.

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U.S. Universities in Qatar Posters:

QAI produced several posters for display at its events that depict statistics and information on the multiple American universities with campuses in Doha, Qatar. These posters were on display during events which hosted alumni from the respective universities featured on the poster.

Poster for Georgetown University Qatar Poster for Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar

Poster for Northwestern University Qatar Poster for VCUarts Qatar

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QAI Briefing ReportsQAI publishes exclusive reports on high-level topics to secure its place as a thought leader on the subject matter. Information on these reports is below:


Counter Terrorism Financing

& Anti-Money Laundering:

This report overviews information discussed during a QAI event on Counter Illicit Finance, as well as how Qatar has cooperated with the U.S. in counterterrorism and counter-illicit finance efforts for many years. The report also analyzes Qatar’s most recent efforts through the Strategic Dialogue and the signing of

three memoranda of understanding, in 2017 and 2018.

QAI Qatar Information Packet

The QAI Qatar Information Packet is an intensive high-level information book that provides a thorough overview of Qatar and its relationship with the United States. This 20-page book covers everything from Qatar’s economy, military partnership with the U.S., freedom of religion, education, energy, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and more.

QAI U.S.-Qatar Visitors

Information Packet

QAI recently published an informational briefing packet meant for visitors to Qatar and to the United States. This packets contains information about the U.S.-Qatar bilateral relationship in the forms of fact sheets, infographics, photos, and maps.

QAI Expert Video Series

The Qatar-America Institute (QAI) Expert Video Series aims to be a forum for prominent academics, authors, and policy makers to both discuss & comment on the growing partnership between the United States and Qatar, as well as the greater Middle East. The series will also explore the ever-changing political, artistic, and cultural landscape of Qatar & the Middle East.

A Conversation with Anissa Helou:

Anissa Helou is a world-renowned chef, food writer, journalist, broadcaster, consultant and blogger focusing on the cuisines and culinary heritage of the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa. Ms. Helou is the author of numerous award-winning cookbooks with her first being “Lebanese Cuisine,” capturing her roots as the daughter of a Syrian father and Lebanese mother.

A Conversation on the Status of Human Rights in Qatar:

Dr. Ali bin Smaikh Al-Marri is the chairman of Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC). The NHRC was established in 2002 and functions as an independent non-governmental organization. In this interview, Dr. Al-Marri discussed the major legislative reforms that have been undertaken by the Qatari government to protect the rights of migrant workers, as well as the human rights violations Qatar has endured due to the political and economic blockade imposed by regional neighbors.

QAI Newsletters

QAI sends out newsletters on frequent basis that cover recent updates, news about the U.S.-Qatar partnership, QAI events and resources, and more. The official QAI newsletter is distributed to our general mailing list of 4000+ contacts, whereas the exclusive “Friends of QAI” newsletter is distributed to 150+ select contacts of QAI with distinct interest in the institute and overall U.S.-Qatar bilateral relations.

Within the year 2018, QAI has sent out a total of 26 newsletters to our general contact list.

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QAI Event Recaps and Media Videos:

From the Expressions Artist Talks to panel discussions, QAI produces several videos of its events so that audiences online can consume the content at a later date. Furthermore, QAI’s events are covered by media outlets, like the Ruwad Finale Social that was covered in a segment by Al Araby TV and aired on their network. Below are the many videos QAI has produced and shared online during the year of 2018:

“Ruwad: The Premiere”“Human Rights in the Gulf: A Conversation with Dr. Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri”

“Creativity & Power: The Intersection of Politics & Art in the Arab World”

“QAI Iftar Series: 2018”

“Emelina Soares Sand Carpet Timelapse”

“Expressions Artist Talks: “Pearls of the Past” with Dr. Mohana Rajakumar”

“Expressions Artist Talks: “Feast - Food of the Islamic World” with Anissa Helou”

“QAI Honors Tomorrow’s Youth Organization”

“Expressions Artist Talk: “Fash-ion in the Middle East” with Sandra Bell Wilkins”

“Qatar and the Art of Leadership: Dr. Mohamed Al-Mulla”

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P R E S S &

M E D I A E N G A G E M E N T

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In The Media

Several members of the media attended the opening of the Ruwad art exhibit, from outlets such as ABC News, Al Jazeera, CNN, and Huffington Post. The event was also covered in two Qatari newspapers: Al Raya and Al Sharq. Additionally, a press release was sent out following the event which received 225 pickups from news outlets all across the country, with the average daily potential audience reach of roughly 15 million readers/visitors.

The QAI Ramadan Iftar Series was promoted in a press release sent out at the end of Ramadan to mark the start of Eid-ul-Fitr. It received 116 pickups from news outlets all across the country, with the average daily potential audience reach of roughly 13.3 million readers/visitors.

The Qatar-America Institutes efforts and events in New York City were promoted in a press release sent out at the end of the event-filled week. It received 194 pickups from news outlets all across the country, with the average daily potential audience reach of roughly 84 million readers/visitors.

The Qatar-America Institute distributed a press release on November 06 focused on two organizations that work to strengthen women’s rights in the United States and in the Middle East, respectively: Knock Out Abuse and Tomorrow’s Youth Organization. It received 168 pickups from news outlets all across the country, with the average daily potential audience reach of roughly 7.7 million readers/visitors.

Some of the outlets that published QAI’s press release on their site were: Business Insider: Markets Insider, Washignton Business Journal, St. Louis Business Journal, South Florida Business Journal, San Francisco Business Journal, Portland Business Journal, Pittsburgh Business Journal, Business Journal of Phoenix, Philadelphia Business Journal, Orlando Business Journal, New York Business Journal, Nashville Business Journal, Los Angeles Business, Kansas City Business Journal, Houston Business Journal, Dallas Business Journal, Chicago Business News, Boston Business Journal, Baltimore Business Journal, Austin Business Journal, Atlanta Business Chronicle, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Boston Herald, and many more.

Radio

Guests on radio shows around the country include former VCU-Qatar director of the fashion department, Sandra Wilkins, Baker Institute fellow for the Middle East, Dr. Kristian Ulrichsen, former U.S. ambassador to Qatar Ambassador Chase Untermeyer, VCU-Qatar alumna and artist Fatima Mohammad, author and teacher Dr. Mohana Rajakumar, Northwestern University student and filmmaker Hind Al-Ansari, Regional Director for Y International Scott Weber, Amir Muhammad of the America’s Islamic Heritage Museum, Qatari law professor Dr. Reem Al Ansari, Mohammed Barakat of the U.S.-Qatar Business Council, and former U.S. ambassador to Qatar Ambassador Patrick Theros.

QAI 2018 Annual ReportPress & Media Engagement

QAI Social Media

QAI has multiple presences on social media, ranging from Twitter to Instagram to Facebook. QAI uses these platforms to share out various educational resources - from fact sheets to videos to infographics - that help explain the partnership between the United States and Qatar. These platforms are also used to link to QAI’s detailed analyses that provide more information about the cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

QAI blog

www.qataramerica.org/blog/

www.qataramerica.org/news/

Facebook

www.facebook.com/QatarAmericaInstitute/

Twitter (@QatarAmerica)

www.twitter.com/QatarAmerica/

Instagram (@QatarAmerica)

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QAI Blog

QAI’s blog is the content hub which aims to educate the general public by providing the latest news and updates, unique content, and insights stemming from Qatar and relating to the U.S.-Qatar strategic partnership on a weekly basis.

The blog serves as an opportunity to read facts and analysis from QAI staff and experts to help our communities better understand the local and global implications of recent news and updates to the socio-economic and political ties between the two nations, providing greater value for QAI audiences through relevant content; covering topics that range from Qatar hosting the world cup to its recent contribution to aid Houston’s hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

The blog also serces to introduce Qatari life and culture to a U.S. audience, and vice-versa, expanding QAI’s work and provides the chance to build reputation of expertise on the various topics surrounding the Qatar-America relationship, and aids in conveying QAI’s mission and brand to larger communities, reaching new audiences and generating traffic to the website and other QAI platforms.


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B O A R D S &

A D V I S O R S

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QAI 2018 Annual ReportBoards & Advisors

QAI Board of Directors

QAI’s Board of Directors, made up of prominent Americans, support QAI’s mission of promoting a better understanding of the vital importance of the U.S.-Qatar strategic relationship through education and collaboration.

Chase Untermeyer

Chase Untermeyer is the Chairman of the Board of Advisors of the Qatar-America Institute. He has been an international business consultant since returning in 2007 from Qatar, where he served three years as United States ambassador on the appointment of President George W. Bush. He is a 1968 graduate of Harvard College with honors in government.

Ambassador Untermeyer is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations as well as an author and lecturer.

Douglas Smith

Douglas Smith has spent the last 25 years serving at the highest levels of government in national security and the private sector and is a serial entrepreneur having helped start numerous companies. Douglas is currently a Managing Director for Kent Strategies, a strategic consulting firm, where Douglas leads the firm’s engagements with national security work, private equity and international governments.

Douglas was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve as the Assistant Secretary for the Private Sector at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In this role, Douglas advised the Secretary on the impact of the Department’s policies, regulations, and processes globally on millions of private sector companies, universities, and not-for-profits institutions.

Smith served as the Department’s representative on the President’s Travel and Tourism Advisory and Export Promotion Boards, the White House Business Council, the President’s Job Council and the World Economic Forum Risk Officers Community. Key to this work was his extensive engagement with the travel and tourism industry including the dramatic expansion of Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and the APEC Business Travel Card. In the wake of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Assistant Secretary Smith headed an interagency team coordinating emergency response and supporting international commerce to keep the global supply chain moving.

Christopher Nixon Cox

Christopher Nixon Cox is a businessman and lawyer living in New York City. He is the owner of OC Global Partners, LLC a company specializing in cross border transactions. Chris has worked on numerous multi-billion-dollar M&A deals. He has also raised hundreds of millions of dollars for private equity funds from international sources. Chris, the grandson of the 37th President of the United States, Richard Nixon, is deeply involved in US and international politics and is a frequent political commentator on Foxnews, CNN, CBS, ABC, BBC, CCTV, Newsmax, WABC, RTE and

KABC. Beyond domestic US politics, Chris focuses on international political issues such as security, trade, economic development and migration. Chris is a graduate of Princeton University, magna cum laude, and NYU School of Law and is a non-resident fellow of the Liechtenstein Institute on Self Determination at Princeton University.

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A.T. Smith

A.T. Smith, a native of Greenville, South Carolina, is an independent consultant specializing in business development in the security, cybersecurity, privacy and identity space. He served as Senior Advisor within the Department of Homeland Security – ICE/HSI on matters involving cybersecurity and transnational organized crime. Mr. Smith spent 29 years with the United States Secret Service. He served as Deputy Director of the Secret Service from April 2012 – February 2015. As Deputy Director, Mr. Smith directed the agency’s daily operations, including

approximately 7,000 personnel and $1.8 billion budget. He also developed and implemented policy as it relates to the agency’s investigative and protective mission.

Prior to serving as Deputy Director, Mr. Smith served as the Assistant Director of the Office of Investigations. In this capacity, he developed and implemented policy for all Secret Service criminal investigations pertaining to counterfeit currency, financial, electronic and cybercrimes, and oversaw multiple investigative divisions and more than 160 domestic and international offices. During his assignment to the Office of Human Resources and Training, Mr. Smith served as a member of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation Board (FLETA). This Board reviews and awards accreditation certification to training academies and academic processes within federal law enforcement.

Mr. Smith is frequently invited to speak to a variety of audiences about law enforcement and criminal justice topics as well as his career and achievements. He has lectured at the Sam Walton and Fulbright School of Business at the University of Arkansas. Mr. Smith has taught criminal justice classes at Greenville Technical College and has authored publications in Law Enforcement and Legal journals. He chairs the board of advisors for the Center for Identity, University of Texas at Austin. Mr. Smith is also an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Association of Former Agents of the United States Secret Service and National Sheriff’s Association member.

Jerry Weller

Former Congressman Jerry Weller (1995-2009) is Managing Partner for NWG Public Affairs LLC, international public affairs, strategic consulting and business development firm with offices in Washington, DC and Guatemala City. NWG serves a variety of clients in health care, energy, finance, telecommunications, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

Elected in the historic class of 1994, Congressman Weller quickly rose in the ranks of his Class; serving as Class President and representing this influential group on the powerful House Republican Steering Committee which appoints Members to their Committee assignments. He also served as Deputy House Majority Whip.

Known for his tenacity, former Congressman Weller recently secured an additional $900 million in additional Medicare funding for Puerto Rico’s hospitals in the 2015 Omnibus package approved by Congress and he worked to build strong bi-partisan Congressional support for the first ever public-private partnership (PPP) to operate a major airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He was instrumental in the land transfer of a sizeable portion of the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Base over to Puerto Rico and obtained over $100 million in discretionary Federal funds for Puerto Rico’s highway improvements. An AP story once labeled him the “go to guy for Puerto Rico”.

During his tenure in the US House of Representatives and as a Member of the Ways & Means Committee, Congressman Weller advocated tax policies that fostered investment in job creation and protected the environment while promoting energy independence from imported oil through the expanded use of biofuels, energy efficiency and alternative sources of energy. He continues to be sought out for comment on current issues and has recently authored commentary in nationally recognized publications including Roll Call and The Hill.

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Ali Soufan

Ali Soufan is the Chief Executive Officer of The Soufan Group. Mr. Soufan is a former FBI Supervisory Special Agent who investigated and supervised highly sensitive and complex international terrorism cases, including the East Africa Embassy Bombings, the attack on the USS Cole, and the events surrounding 9/11. Mr. Soufan also serves as a member of the Homeland Security Advisory Council. He is the author of the newly released “Anatomy of Terror: From the Death of bin Laden to the Rise of the Islamic State” and The New York Times Top 10 Bestseller, “The Black Banners: The Inside Story of 9/11 and the War Against al Qaeda,” winner of the 2012 Ridenhour Book Prize.

Mr. Soufan is a leading national security and counterterrorism expert and continues to play a significant advisory role on today’s most sensitive issues. He had a distinguished career in the FBI, including serving on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, FBI New York Office, where he coordinated both domestic and international counterterrorism operations. He often operated out of hostile environments and carried out sensitive extra-territorial missions and high-level negotiations and has received numerous awards and commendations for his counter-terrorism work.

Paul Hamill

Paul Hamill is the Secretary of the Board of Directors and the Executive Director of QAI.

In addition to QAI, Paul is a leading political & national security policy and communications strategist. He is also an Adjunct Senior Fellow at the non-partisan American Security Project, where he was previously COO and Director of Strategy and Communications.

Paul has worked with several leading institutions working on key foreign policy strategy issues to enhance the national security for the United States.

QAI Zubara Council

The Zubara Council is a Qatari Leadership Advisory Council. The name, Zubara, is driven from Qatar’s historical fort and archeological landmark which provided protection to the people of Qatar in the past, and an inspiration to the site-visitors in the present. Similar to the eminence of “Zubara,” our Qatari leadership advisory council is key to advance QAI’s mission to the American and Qatari public.

Dr. Khalid Al-Ali

Dr. Khalid M. Al-Ali brings deep experience and expertise to his roles in various organizations, having spent much of his career in Silicon Valley. He is the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Senseta, a world leader in mission-critical big data fusion, AI and drone-powered deep technologies. He is the Co- Founder and Chairman of the Silicon Valley Space Business Roundtable (SVSBR). He was the Executive Director of the University of California Office for NASA Partnerships and the University Affiliated Research Center (UARC).

He was the Science Advisor for the Office of the Center Director at NASA Ames Research Center (ARC) and was the principal investigator, project lead, and program visionary at NASA ARC and NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratories (JPL), on key projects involving advanced aircraft and spacecraft technologies, intelligent avionics, novel power systems, planetary rovers and robots, spacecraft, and intelligent exploratory vehicles for Lunar, Martian, and Antarctic missions. He was the Director of Research at Carnegie Mellon University – Silicon Valley Campus and founded the Carnegie Mellon Innovations Lab (CMIL).

Dr. Al-Ali was the advisor to the Board of Directors of Qatar Foundation and CEO of the Qatar Science and Technology Park Project (QSTP). He was a founding member of both Qatar’s Information Technology and Communication Committee and the Steering Committee of the Information Technology and Communication Project. Dr. Al-Ali is the principal inventor

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of U.S. and worldwide-patented technologies, along with a multitude of disclosed inventions not yet patented. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering from the University of California at Berkeley and dual B.S. degrees in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Fatma Al-Kuwari

Fatma Al-Kuwari is one of the two women elected to Qatar’s Municipal Council, representing the 9th district, which covers Al- Thumama, Ras Bufontas (North), Mesaimeer (North). After an unsuccessful first attempt in 2011, Fatma ran for the second time in 2015 and won most of her constituents’ votes. Her loyalty to the district and its people won her this seat despite her close competition. As a mother of three, her campaign slogans and logos depicted her aspirations to balance between life in politics, motherhood, and community service. She has been diligently working and advocating for environmental issues, healthcare, women participation in politics, and be of great use to her community and country at large.

Dr. Mohamed Al-Mulla

Dr. Mohamed Abdulla Al-Mulla, who holds Ph.D. in International Law from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) of University of London, is the first Qatari and GCC national to join the UN as early as 1985 and to work in the UN for more than 27 years. He has contributed to the global efforts to preserve international peace and security through his extensive work in the areas of international relations, multilateral negotiations and UN diplomacy under the era of successive four Secretary Generals of the UN.

He worked directly with five Under-Secretary Generals in promoting social development and human security. In particular, as a UN Representative for the Gulf Countries, in close cooperation with one of the Under-Secretary Generals, he designed and initiated the famous Global Initiative to fight Human Trafficking (GIFT), which until now continues to mobilize global stakeholders to prevent trafficking in persons, raise awareness through public media, take stock, build coalitions, and build a common plan of action through a series of international events leading to Vienna Platform Conference.

Dr. Al-Mulla has held several senior positions in the UN. He served as UN Regional Coordinator for the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, where he built consensus and obtained strong commitments from the GCC countries for partnerships with the UN in order to develop international technical assistance projects for that region. Additionally, he managed a UN project that led to the establishment of the Gulf Centre for Criminal Intelligence (GCCI) in Doha, to serve a state-of-the art international criminal justice network at regional and international levels.

He has also served as a Program Coordinator for South-East Asia, where he led the process of development of Lao PDR’s National Strategy on poverty reduction, leading in 2006 to complete elimination of the opium poppy cultivation as well as managing the development of the Memoranda of Understanding between the six Greater Mekong countries, which provided a legal basis for the law-enforcement agencies of these countries to cooperate directly with their international counterparts in compliance with international treaties.

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QAI Advisory Board

QAI’s Advisory Board is a vital organ of the Institute, influencing programmatic strategy and decision-making. Advisory Board members include a diverse range of professionals and experts from both the U.S. and Qatar.

Dr. Haitham Al-Salama

Dr. Haitham is currently working as the special advisor to the Minister of Finance and the Chief Economic Advisor at the QFC Authority which he joined in August 2016.

He has over 12 years of experience spanning the fields of Economic Development, policy and management within governmental and non-profit organizations.

Prior to joining the QFC Authority, Dr. Haitham held the position of Director of Science Policy and Management at Sidra Medical and Research Centre, a member of Qatar Foundation.

He was a member of the Supreme Council of Health Ethics Committee, Carnegie Mellon University–Qatar Institutional Review Board and the Qatar Cancer Action Team of the Supreme Council of Health, among others.

He is the proud recipient of Oxford University’s Honorary Senior Research Fellowship, the League of the Arab States’ 25th Anniversary Distinguished Student Award, the Scientific Excellence Award in Physics from GCC and the Arab Thought Foundation Prize for Outstanding Talented Youth for being the youngest Arab and Muslim physician having graduated Medical School at 19 years of age.

He holds an MBA from Stanford University, USA, a Master of Arts in Education, as well as a certificate of Social Innovation and Public Management from Stanford University, a master’s in public policy from Harvard University in International and Global Affairs and an MBBS from King Saud University.

Colonel Nawaf bin Mubarak bin Saif Al-Ahmad Al-Thani

Colonel Nawaf bin Mubarak bin Saif Al-Ahmad Al-Thani is the Chief Inspector for Communication and Information assurance in the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) The eldest son of prominent Arab playwright and poet - who wrote the words of the National Anthem of Qatar - and career diplomat H.E Sheikh. Mubarak bin Saif bin Ahmed Al-Thani. He joined the Qatar Armed Forces in 1996

Colonel Al-Thani served in the Qatar Defense Intelligence (DMI) as an officer from 2001 until 2016, his last position being Acting Director of Intelligence Operations, while at the DMI he deployed to several multinational operations including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom where he served as part of the Coalition Intelligence Cell (CIC) and as the first non-NATO Chairman of the Coalition Red Cell (CRC). Col. Al-Thani was deployed to Operations in Libya (Tobruk, Bengazi, Tripoli) throughout most of 2011 as part of the enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973, Initially as part of the US lead Operation Odyssey Dawn, which continued afterwards under NATO command as Operation Unified Protector, he then transitioned from an operational role to supporting SSR efforts in Tripoli after the operations had ended. He represented Qatar in several humanitarian missions to include a membership in the Arab League Humanitarian Observer mission for Syria (2012) where he help formulate the state of Qatar‘s stance towards the Syrian regime’s atrocities committed against the Syrian people, he wrote extensively about his experiences traveling across Syria and documented them in several papers for the National Command and General Staff College library (Qatar) and wrote several articles for the Arab media on the subject. Col. Al-Thani was appointed by H.E Dr. Khalid Al-Attiyah the Minister of State for Defense Affairs to head the newly formed Directorate of Defense Communication (DDC) as the first Director of Defense Communication in in the Qatari MOD , and as

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the first Spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense and the Qatar Armed Forces In November 2016, and continued in those positions until Feb. 2018.He was promoted to the rank of COLONEL by a general order by H.H. the Commander-in-Chief on the 1st of February of 2018, and was then appointed as Chief Inspector of Communication and Information assurance in the Office of the Inspector General of the Qatar Armed Forces (OIG) where continues to serve to this day. Al-Thani has a weekly column in the Al-Arab Daily newspaper (Qatar) where he continues to write about Global security and Geostrategy as it pertains to the Gulf region.

Shaikha Al-Thani

Shaikha Al-Thani is a cultural strategist from Qatar. Hailing from a diplomatic family, Shaikha’s passion for arts and culture formed at a young age while living across Europe.

Shaikha returned to Qatar in 2013 where she joined Qatar Museums (QM) as a branding expert. In her role, she oversaw the development and implementation of several museum brands and spearheaded marketing campaigns that furthered awareness of QM locally and internationally.

Shaikha is currently based in New York where she is working with museums such as the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Rubin Museum of Art to advance audience engagement, build and implement strategic objectives and introduce innovative frameworks and methodologies that enable them to thrive in the 21st century. She is deeply passionate about the growth of the arts and culture sector in Qatar and has a vested interest in expanding knowledge of Qatar’s arts sector worldwide through cross-cultural dialogue.

Ms. Shaikha Al-Thani has been awarded a MA from Pratt Institute in Arts and Cultural Management and a BSc in Marketing Management & Communications Culture and Media from Oxford Brookes University.

Dr. Andrew Bowen

Andrew J. Bowen, Ph.D. is the Managing Director of Therao, a global strategy firm and a member of the advisory board of the Qatar America Institute. He is also a Senior Advisor to Greenmantle, an economic and geopolitical advisory firm headed by Niall Ferguson.

He previously was a visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focused on Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States and Middle East energy. Before joining AEI, Dr. Bowen was a global fellow in the Middle East Program at the Wilson Center and a senior fellow and director of

Middle East Studies for the Center for the National Interest. Earlier, he was director of the Levant Program for the Center for the Middle East and the Baker Institute Scholar for the Middle East at the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy.

Dr. Bowen has been widely published, including in Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, the Houston Chronicle, The Daily Beast, The National Interest, Al Arabiya, and CNN.com. His book “US-Syrian Relations: Security Cooperation in Regional Conflicts” (Palgrave Macmillan) is expected in the fall of 2018.

He has a Ph.D. in international relations and an M.Sc. in the history of international relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science in the United Kingdom. His bachelor degree in political science is from Rice University.

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Dr. Daniel Stoll

Daniel C. Stoll has spent his career in higher education as well as the US Foreign Service focused on issues related to the Middle East.

With the Foreign Service, he had postings at the US Embassy in Baghdad, as well as in the Office of Egyptian Affairs at the US Department of State. Since 2008, he has worked extensively with Georgetown University’s campus in Doha, Qatar, including as Associate Dean for Academic

Affairs at the School of Foreign Service-Qatar and through initiatives with the University’s School of Continuing Studies.

He has written extensively on issues related to water resources management in the region, as well as higher education in the Gulf, and has co-authored or has contributed to: The Politics of Scarcity: Water in the Middle East; International Conflict Over Water Resources in Himalayan Asia; and Higher Education Investment in the Arab States: Strategies for Excellence and Diversity.

He has a Masters in Contemporary Arab Studies from Georgetown University, and his Ph.D. from the University of Missouri-Kansas City focused on US diplomatic relations with the Middle East during the Eisenhower Administration.

Lauren McCollough

Lauren’s more than decade-long communications career has focused on setting strategic agendas and shaping the narratives for countries and global organizations, requiring the development and implementation of all aspects of communications and organizational growth.

Lauren is currently a Senior Communications Advisor at the Institute for State Effectiveness (ISE) and Strategic Communications Director for Altitude Strategies. Lauren spent the past several years

working with Qatar as an international and media relations specialist for Al Jazeera, Director of Communications for Qatar Foundation International, and head of communications and Vice Chair of the Worker Welfare Committee for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Lauren has also managed and consulted on several international projects including the UNFCCC COP18/CMP8 Climate Change Conference; the Crimes of War Project; the Global Forum on Oceans, Coasts and Islands; and the U.S. Qatar Business Council.

Lauren received her master’s in journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, where she has since served as a communications professor. She has also been a reporter, producer and videographer for various news outlets.

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Documents

“Qatar and America: Reliable Partners” · 1 About QAI The Qatar-America Institute (QAI) is an independent, nonproit, research institute that hosts an open space to convene, facilitate