Doha, Qatar – His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani presided over the joint graduation ceremony of Qatar’s military colleges on January 22, 2026, at Ahmed Bin Mohammed Military College. The event celebrated the accomplishments of 534 cadets from Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Somalia, and Rwanda, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing investment in national security and military education. This year’s ceremony also included the official inauguration of Tamim bin Hamad University for Military and Technology Sciences.
Strengthening Qatar’s Defense Capabilities Through Military Education
The graduation ceremony encompassed cadets from Ahmed Bin Mohammed Military College, Al Zaeem Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al Attiya Air Academy, Mohammed Bin Ghanem Al Ghanem Naval Academy, and the Cyber Space Academy. The event underscores Qatar’s commitment to developing a highly skilled and technologically advanced military force, capable of addressing evolving regional and global security challenges. According to the Ministry of Defence, the diverse cohort of graduates reflects Qatar’s growing international cooperation in defense training.
International Participation and Collaboration
The presence of cadets from Kuwait, Jordan, Somalia, and Rwanda highlights the strengthening ties between Qatar and these nations in the field of defense. This collaboration extends beyond training, with Qatar increasingly playing a role in regional security initiatives. The inclusion of international students also contributes to a broader understanding of military tactics and strategies.
The ceremony commenced with the playing of the national anthem, followed by a formal inspection of the graduating cadets by His Highness the Amir. Brigadier General Staff Ali Mohammad Al Fadala, Commander of Ahmed Bin Mohammed Military College, delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of dedication, discipline, and continuous learning for the future officers.
His Highness the Amir then presented awards to the outstanding graduates, including the Sword of Honor for each military college and the parade commander. The cadets subsequently participated in a military march and parade, demonstrating the skills and training they have acquired throughout their academic and practical programs. The parade showcased modern military equipment and formations, reflecting Qatar’s investment in advanced defense technology.
A key moment of the ceremony was the handover of the flag from the graduating class to the incoming cadets. Immediately following this tradition, permission was requested from and granted by His Highness the Amir to officially inaugurate the flag of Tamim bin Hamad University for Military and Technology Sciences. This new university represents a significant expansion of Qatar’s capacity for specialized defense training and research.
The graduates concluded the ceremony by performing the college anthem and taking the oath of allegiance, pledging their commitment to serving and protecting the nation. The oath reaffirms the core values of loyalty, integrity, and self-sacrifice expected of all members of Qatar’s armed forces. This commitment is particularly relevant given the current geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
Qatar has been steadily increasing its investment in its military infrastructure and personnel in recent years, driven by a desire for greater self-reliance and a more prominent role in regional security. This focus on national defense is aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes security and stability as essential foundations for sustainable development. The establishment of the Cyber Space Academy, in particular, demonstrates Qatar’s recognition of the growing importance of cybersecurity in modern warfare.
Looking ahead, the Tamim bin Hamad University for Military and Technology Sciences is expected to begin accepting students in the fall of 2026. The university’s curriculum will focus on cutting-edge technologies and specialized military skills, further enhancing Qatar’s defense capabilities. The success of this new institution will depend on attracting qualified faculty and providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Further details regarding specific academic programs and admission requirements are anticipated in the coming months, and will be closely watched by regional security analysts.
The Ministry of Defence has not yet announced plans for future joint graduation ceremonies, but it is likely that this will become an annual event, showcasing the progress of Qatar’s military education system and its commitment to regional security cooperation.
