The workshop included in-depth discussions with experts and researchers focused on developing micro-mobility systems, including bicycles and similar urban modes like scooters. It explored the challenges associated with micro-mobility, such as the need for adequate infrastructure and the regulatory frameworks that governed their usage, aiming to improve transport network efficiency and reduce their impact on traffic safety. Extensive discussions and exchanges of ideas occurred among international experts, speakers from scientific and global organisations, and representatives from both governmental and private sectors.

The workshop also included a session on the “Update of the Qatar Bicycle Master Plan,” an ongoing initiative by the Ministry of Transport, to discuss some of its outputs and exchange views with pertinent governmental and private sector representatives. This international workshop was attended by over 400 professionals from official, research, and private sectors from more than 65 countries.

As the Dean of the College of Engineering at Qatar University, Dr Khalid Kamal Naji, stated, “This international event was the result of the ongoing collaboration between Qatar University, the Ministry of Transport, leading global organisations in transportation engineering, and private sector consulting firms. It aimed to ensure a practical and effective impact from the advanced research studies conducted by the college to find innovative solutions based on best global practices for the contemporary challenges facing transportation systems in the country and the world. The participation of a distinguished group of faculty members, researchers, and graduate students from the university in this workshop was a testament to the college’s commitment to transportation and traffic safety research and its collaboration with governmental and private entities in this field.”

In addition, the Director of Land Transport Planning at the Ministry of Transport, Mr Saleh Said Al-Marri, noted, “The world experienced rapid technological and industrial progress in micro-mobility solutions, which led many countries to develop plans that aligned with these advancements. In this regard, the Ministry of Transport took significant steps to enhance the land transport system in Qatar, with the goal of establishing a comprehensive and sustainable transport network that included bicycles and micro-mobility options. These modes were essential for reducing dependence on private vehicles and providing flexible solutions for short-distance travel, facilitating access to public transport stations.”

He stressed the importance of collaboration between the Ministry and research institutions to enhance partnerships between scientific research and practical aspects.

Regarding the presentation of technological solutions to the challenges facing micro-mobility, the Director of Traffic Tech (Gulf), Engineer Abdul Rahman Al-Khatib, expressed, “We were proud to sponsor this important event organised by Qatar University, which highlighted the future of urban mobility—micro-mobility. At Traffic Tech Gulf, we remained committed to supporting sustainable transport through intelligent transport systems and advanced traffic management solutions such as SCATS, which improved traffic flow to safely integrate micro-mobility solutions into our cities. By leveraging these technologies, we aimed to contribute to a more connected, efficient, and environmentally friendly urban environment for the future of Qatar.”

In her remarks, Ms Susanna Zammataro, Director General of the International Road Federation, said, “The swift and widespread adoption of micro-mobility solutions in numerous countries presented considerable challenges for road authorities, particularly regarding the integration of these modes into existing transportation systems, including infrastructure and traffic management…”.