DOHA – The award, which targets young citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, brought together talented participants specialszing in data science, statistics, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation. The initiative reflects the GCC’s commitment to empowering youth and enhancing the region’s competitiveness in innovation and the digital economy.

Launched as an annual regional platform, the award aims to develop a generation of digitally skilled Gulf youth by strengthening capabilities in data analysis, statistics, and artificial intelligence. It also seeks to encourage young people to create innovative solutions that support decision-making and contribute to the knowledge economy.

Organised under the supervision of Qatar’s Ministry of Sports and Youth, the award is implemented in cooperation with the Gulf Statistical Centre, and the National Planning Council’s National Statistics Center.

Participants competed in two main categories. The first, the ‘Data Challenge’, focused on analysing real statistical datasets and extracting indicators and recommendations through the practical use of open data. The second category, ‘Creating Statistical Solutions Using Artificial Intelligence’, involved developing machine learning projects, predictive models, smart applications, interactive dashboards, and social media text analysis tools.

Omani contestants delivered exceptional results across the competition. In the Artificial Intelligence Applications category, Mohammed Al Farsi claimed first place. Oman also swept the top three positions in the Open Data category, with Nasser Al Shukaili winning first place, Mujahid Al Suwaiti taking second, and Nawaf Al Rashidi securing third place.

In the Statistical Analysis and Data Presentation category, Ruqaya Al Khaifi earned third place, while Amna Al Raisi won second place in the Data Foresight category.

The award aligns with GCC strategic goals of building a knowledge-based economy powered by innovation, data, and artificial intelligence, while strengthening human capital and enabling youth to play an active role in shaping the future of statistical and digital development across the region.