MDS East Gulf colleagues conquer major sandstorm en route to team-building session at the coast

On April 15, while much of Doha was blanketed under a dense sandstorm, the MDS East Gulf – Qatar team decided to move forward. The sky was unclear, the wind was high, but their direction was certain. What was meant to be a smooth day of team bonding in the desert quickly transformed into something far more powerful – a live demonstration of resilience, unity and leadership under pressure.

Employees gathered at noon at the MDS East Gulf offices, many unsure whether the event would even proceed. But the decision was made – the team would go ahead. The buses rolled out into the storm, carrying not only people, but purpose. The highway gave way to sand, and the group transferred to a fleet of off-road SUVs. As the convoy cut through dunes and valleys, there were cheers, jokes and the kind of laughter that only happens when everyone is quietly nervous.

By early afternoon, the skies began to shift. The storm gave way to clear horizons as the convoy pulled into Regency Sealine Camp, a hidden stretch of desert coastline that felt untouched and perfectly still.

Themed under ‘Where Desert Meets Sea: CHILL, Connect, Celebrate,’ the afternoon unfolded with a series of team-building activities that pushed people beyond their comfort zones. Groups were mixed across departments, creating space for unexpected connections and new collaborations. The challenges demanded creativity, agility, and problem-solving – all traits that the East Gulf team lean on during real-world project delivery.

Later on, the pace shifted again as the football challenge brought a competitive charge to the retreat. Lines blurred between teammates, and roles reversed as quiet analysts became top scorers, while cheers and encouragement echoed from all sides of the field. As the sun dipped, the evening began with an outdoor dinner setup, framed by soft lighting and a glowing coastline.

This was a time for reflection. Leadership stepped up to speak, not with formalities, but with heart. They talked about the year behind them, the wins and the struggles, the people who made the difference. It wasn’t just a speech – it was a message – ‘We made it through. We’re still moving forward. And we’re doing it together.’

As night fully settled in, the bonfire was lit, and a new energy emerged. This was the final chapter of the day, and it was all about celebration. The glow of the fire created a natural stage as the team gathered for the awards ceremony – a moment that felt relaxed and deeply meaningful.

The prizes extended beyond just athletic wins or fastest challenge completions. They celebrated what truly mattered: team spirit, creative thinking, quiet leadership, and the willingness to step up when it counted. MDS East Gulf didn’t just host a retreat. They faced the storm—and turned it into something unforgettable.