How UDST Became One of Qatar’s Best Workplaces™

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Oumeima Abrougui

At the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), being named among the Best Workplaces in Qatar™ 2026 is not just a recognition, it is a reflection of years of intentionally building a workplace culture grounded in trust, inclusion, and shared purpose. 

For four consecutive years, UDST has been Great Place to Work® Certified, demonstrating consistency in creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and proud to belong. 

But how does a university build a workplace where people genuinely thrive? 

A Culture of Trust Starts with Leadership

At UDST, trust begins with leadership. Guided by Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, President of UDST, the University has leverage a culture built on transparency, accessibility, and a clear sense of direction. 

Across all levels of the institution, leaders actively support collaboration, open communication, and employee success. This leadership approach has helped create a workplace where people feel heard, respected, and empowered to contribute. 

Employees are further motivated by knowing their work contributes to Qatar National Vision 2030. Whether through education, innovation, research, or skills development, teams across the University understand the wider national impact of their roles. 

An open-door culture is a defining part of the UDST experience. Employees are encouraged to share ideas, raise concerns, and contribute to decision-making in an environment where managers remain approachable, supportive, and engaged. 

Bringing Culture to Life Through Everyday Experiences

At UDST, culture is not only defined through strategy, it is experienced every day through meaningful initiatives that strengthen connection, celebrate achievements, and foster belonging. 

Initiatives such as Coffee with the President create direct and informal opportunities for dialogue between employees and leadership, reinforcing openness, trust, and a strong sense of community. 

Recognition is also embedded into the employee experience. From day-to-day appreciation to large-scale events such as Gala Dinners and Awards Ceremonies, UDST ensures that contributions are acknowledged and achievements are celebrated collectively. 

The University also invests in its people through professional development opportunities that support continuous learning and career growth. Initiatives such as Personal Development Days provide dedicated time for instructors to focus on professional advancement and lifelong learning. 

A strong sense of belonging is further fostered through community events such as the Festival of Cultures and UDST Got Talent, where employees and students come together to celebrate diversity, creativity, and shared experiences. 

As part of the University’s wellness strategy, wellbeing remains a key priority, supported through initiatives such as the Resolution Fit Challenge, which encourages healthy lifestyles and work-life balance. 

Beyond campus, employees actively represent UDST at national and international platforms, including the Web Summit, AI Symposiums,  World Expos and innovation initiatives such as AgriteQ. These opportunities strengthen pride, visibility, and purpose across the institution.  

Where Trust Drives Academic Excellence

At UDST, workplace culture is deeply connected to academic excellence. The University’s strength lies not only in how people work together, but in the impact they create through teaching, research, and applied learning.  

As Qatar’s national university specializing in applied, technical, and professional education, UDST delivers a wide range of academic programs across its five colleges preparing graduates with the practical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. 

A Culture of Pride, Purpose, and Growth 

One of the clearest indicators of UDST’s success as a workplace is the pride expressed by its employees. 

A strong majority of employees have shared that they are proud to be part of the University, reflecting deep trust, engagement, and alignment with its mission.  

This pride is not accidental. It is the result of consistent investment in people, strong leadership, and a workplace where individuals feel valued and connected. 

More Than a Recognition: A Continuing Journey 

Being named among the Best Workplaces in Qatar™ 2026 is a significant achievement, but for UDST, it is part of an ongoing journey of continuous improvement.  

By continuing to invest in trust, wellbeing, development, and inclusion, the University is building a workplace culture designed for long-term success. 

As UDST continues to grow, it does so with a clear purpose: to empower its people, strengthen its academic and research impact, and contribute meaningfully to the future of Qatar.

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Oumeima Abrougui

Oumeima Abrougui is a content creator and writer for Great Place To Work®. Oumeima has experience covering workplace culture, communication, and well-being. Her work shines a light on the insights and stories that reflect Great Place To Work’s mission of building a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All™. 

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