Qatar Foundation Celebrates Distinguished Graduates at 2026 Excellence Awards

The 2026 Qatar Foundation Excellence Awards showcased the remarkable achievements of several Qatari graduates. Honored by Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, these awardees expressed that the recognition propels them to further contribute toward Qatar’s developmental objectives.

During the ceremony, award recipients articulated to Qatar News Agency that the accolades signify Qatar Foundation’s unwavering dedication to nurturing talented individuals, innovators, and the leaders of tomorrow.

This year saw over 120 applications vying for the esteemed award, with a specialized committee from partner universities hand-picking 16 outstanding graduates, including eight Qataris. Selection criteria featured academic achievement, leadership, and impact across diverse sectors such as technology, AI, sustainability, healthcare, law, and the arts.

The laureates commended Qatar Foundation’s educational framework for steering their aspirations and endorsing their professional journeys. They emphasized their commitment towards research, innovation, and community service within Qatar.

Among notable winners was Sheikha Noura Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who earned a PhD in Law from Hamad Bin Khalifa University. She noted that the recognition intensifies her commitment to utilizing legal acumen for societal benefit.

Khalid Al Abdullah, a Biological Sciences graduate from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, expressed his ambition to focus on oncology to bolster cancer research and treatment in the region.

Mashael Mohammed Al Sulaiti, who graduated with an Executive MBA from HEC Paris in Qatar, remarked that the award underscores the significance of discipline and having clear objectives for success.

Khawla Zaki Al Essa from Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar highlighted art’s pivotal role in fostering positive and enduring social change.

Lolwa Mohammed Al Misnad of Northwestern University in Qatar pointed out the need for teamwork and cooperative efforts in facilitating meaningful change.

Ali Ibrahim Al Emadi, a master’s graduate in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University at Qatar, revealed that the inspiring academic setting cultivated by Qatar Foundation motivated him to pursue doctoral studies aimed at merging industrial practices with innovative academia.

Officials from Qatar Foundation commended the graduates for their versatility across disciplines while upholding robust ethical standards. It's noteworthy that nearly 30 percent of the awardees have commenced innovative startups blending fields such as healthcare, computing, education, and design.

The ceremony also honored other accomplished graduates from partner universities, covering a broad spectrum of academic disciplines.