In a new episode of Milh Al Kalam, hosted by journalist Huda Mohamed, the program features engineer and entrepreneur Hassan Al-Samarrai, co-founding managing partner of Applab, in a rich dialogue exploring the features of digital transformation in Qatar and the role of artificial intelligence in reshaping services, decision-making, and even participation in warfare.
Al-Samarrai described Qatar’s digital experience as a pioneering model in the region, noting that the state’s robust digital infrastructure—established through partnerships with global companies such as Microsoft and Google—enabled data to be stored within Qatar under its legal framework. This has allowed for the development of AI applications at a world-class level while preserving national sovereignty and user privacy.
He also discussed the origins of Applab, which began as a youth-led initiative to create an application serving charitable organizations. Today, it has evolved into one of the largest software companies in Qatar, serving over 150 governmental and sovereign entities. He explained that many of the daily services accessed by citizens and residents—such as education, healthcare, and social services—run on systems developed internally by the company.
Regarding artificial intelligence, Al-Samarrai emphasized that we have moved beyond the stage of content generation and decision support to a new phase of direct execution. Users no longer need to search or browse; they can simply ask the system to renew a health card or extract a document, and the AI handles the entire process, from data collection to payment. He described this shift as a pivotal moment in the history of human-technology relations.
However, he warned that this advancement could become dangerous without strict regulatory frameworks. He noted that in the war on Gaza, the Zionist entity is using AI to make bombing decisions, raising profound ethical and legal concerns.
On digital privacy, Al-Samarrai stressed that users today are effectively paying with their data instead of money. Most agree to the terms and conditions without reading or understanding their implications. He described our current era as one of soft privacy violations, where user data is collected and analyzed in hidden and indirect ways in exchange for services that appear free but are, in fact, paid for with personal awareness.
In closing, Al-Samarrai urged both individuals and institutions to reposition themselves in light of this emerging reality. Jobs that lack creativity are at risk of extinction, and humans must shift from roles of execution to those of ideation to maintain their relevance in a world where AI is advancing at unprecedented speed. He emphasized that the future belongs not only to those with technical skills, but to those with the capacity for creativity and original thought—things AI cannot replicate.
The full episode is available on the Qawl Fassel YouTube channel as part of the Milh Al Kalam series, offering an insightful reference for understanding the contours of the digital transformation emerging from the heart of Qatar’s experience.
