Qatar Unveils Major Tech & Investment Reforms as Prime Minister Opens Web Summit Qatar 2026
Qatar’s ambition to become a leading global technology and innovation hub accelerated yesterday as HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, officially inaugurated the third edition of Web Summit Qatar, the MENA region’s fastest-growing technology event. The summit runs until 4 February at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, gathering global tech leaders, investors, founders, and policymakers. The opening ceremony marked a milestone moment for Qatar’s digital transformation agenda, with the government announcing a series of high-impact initiatives designed to expand the nation’s technology, entrepreneurship, AI, and investment ecosystems. USD 2 Billion Expansion of the Fund of Funds Programme In one of the summit’s most significant announcements, Qatar confirmed a USD 2 billion expansion of its national Fund of Funds programme, which supports venture capital firms and high-growth startups across strategic sectors. This expansion strengthens Qatar’s position as a global capital hub and sends a clear signal to international investors seeking a stable, innovation-driven market. 10-Year Residency for Entrepreneurs & Executives Qatar also announced a long-term 10-year residency scheme for: This new visa category aims to attract world-class talent and incentivise founders to build and scale their companies from Qatar — a major step in advancing the country’s competitiveness on the global innovation map. Faster, Simplified Company Registration As part of ongoing reforms to improve the ease of doing business, Qatar introduced accelerated company registration procedures, enabling startups and investors to establish operations faster and more efficiently. These improvements reinforce Qatar’s goal of becoming one of the world’s most business-friendly jurisdictions, especially for early-stage and scaling companies. Launch of Qai — Qatar’s National AI Company Another headline announcement was the launch of Qai, Qatar’s new national AI company, signalling a powerful move to position the nation at the center of global AI development. Qai will focus on: The initiative aligns with Qatar’s broader national strategy to integrate AI across education, industry, energy, healthcare, mobility, and smart cities. A Transformational Edition of Web Summit Qatar With thousands of global delegates, investors, and startups converging in Doha, Web Summit Qatar 2026 is on track to become the region’s most influential gathering for: This year’s edition cements Qatar’s rise as one of the world’s most dynamic markets for entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and investment.
QIA and Goldman Sachs Sign Landmark MoU Targeting $25 Billion Investment, Strengthening Qatar’s Global Financial Influence
In one of the most significant financial announcements of 2026, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Goldman Sachs Asset Management have signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding their strategic partnership and unlocking a combined investment target of $25 billion. The agreement marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s growing stature as a regional and global financial hub, reinforcing the nation’s long-term strategy to drive economic diversification, attract foreign investment, and strengthen private-sector growth. According to a statement released by QIA, the sovereign wealth fund intends to commit capital across Goldman Sachs’ flagship funds, innovative alternative investment strategies, and selected co-investment opportunities. The partnership expands QIA’s role as an anchor investor across multiple Goldman Sachs Asset Management platforms, giving Qatar preferential access to global deal flow in future-forward sectors, including: This move solidifies Qatar’s position as a leading institutional investor in high-growth global markets. As part of the expanded cooperation, Goldman Sachs will enhance its presence in Doha, building out its capabilities as a strategic asset management hub for the region. Through its global Value Accelerator network, Goldman Sachs will support Qatar in: This partnership aligns closely with Qatar’s ambitions to become a regional leader in alternative investments, innovation-led industries, and financial services. Commenting on the agreement, Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “QIA is pleased to partner with Goldman Sachs in this landmark agreement. It provides QIA with premium deal flow in sectors critical to our investment strategy, including AI, fintech, digital infrastructure and private credit. This partnership extends beyond capital deployment and reinforces Doha’s position as a regional financial center.” He further noted that Goldman Sachs’ commitment to expanding its Doha presence will support job creation, specialized skills development, and long-term economic value for Qatar. David Solomon, Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs, emphasized Qatar’s strong momentum: “Qatar is on an exciting path of economic diversification, developing its capital markets, strengthening its talent base, and expanding its ecosystem of national champions. This creates substantial opportunity to widen Qatar’s global connectivity and impact as a multi-faceted investment partner.” Goldman Sachs stands among the world’s leading alternative investment managers, with: Its Value Accelerator Network will now work closely with Qatari institutions and the wider ecosystem to build enduring, globally competitive businesses. The QIA–Goldman Sachs MoU represents more than a financial partnership—it positions Doha as a rising global center for asset management, sovereign investment, and cross-border financial collaboration. With a $25 billion target fueling this strategic alliance, Qatar is poised to accelerate high-impact investments and strengthen its role in shaping the future of global finance.
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Inaugurates the Ninth Edition of DIMDEX 2026, Reinforcing Qatar’s Global Leadership in Defence Innovation
His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar and Supreme Commander of the Qatar Armed Forces, officially inaugurated the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026) at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), marking the beginning of one of the world’s most influential defence and security exhibitions. The opening ceremony gathered an elite audience of high-level officials, including His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, alongside ministers, ambassadors, naval commanders, international delegations, and representatives from more than 200 participating companies. His Highness toured several international pavilions, national exhibitors, and entities from the Qatar Armed Forces, highlighting Qatar’s expanding capabilities across the maritime, air, and land defence sectors. A Strategic Platform for Global Defence Dialogue In his keynote address, His Excellency Major General (Sea) Abdullah bin Hassan Al Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, emphasised the strategic importance of DIMDEX 2026 amid rapidly shifting global and regional dynamics. He noted that the exhibition plays a pivotal role in strengthening the readiness, cooperation, and technological capabilities of modern armed forces. He highlighted that DIMDEX has evolved into a global hub for maritime defence innovation, presenting cutting-edge systems, strategic technologies, and next-generation support solutions essential for safeguarding sovereignty and security. The Middle East Naval Commanders Conference, held in parallel, serves as a critical diplomatic forum where experts, military leaders, and academics address the latest developments in maritime security and regional defence challenges. The Most Expansive Edition in DIMDEX History Organised under the theme “A Global Hub for Defence Innovations – Invest in Possibilities to Shape a Secure Tomorrow”, DIMDEX 2026 is the largest edition since its inception. With: The four-day event reinforces Qatar’s position as a global destination for defence business, innovation, investment, and collaboration. Strategic Agreements and Global Partnerships The opening day witnessed the signing of multiple contracts, MoUs, and strategic defence agreements, attended by His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. These partnerships underscore DIMDEX’s role as a catalyst for commercial growth, defence innovation, and long-term investment—particularly within the maritime and advanced technology sectors. Warships Display at Hamad Port A highlight of DIMDEX 2026 is the official opening of the visiting international warships display at Hamad Port. Eight advanced warships from six nations arrived this year, including the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces’ multi-mission vessel ‘Al Fulk’, the largest of its kind in the Gulf region. The display reinforces Qatar’s maritime presence and its long-standing commitment to maritime security. Workshops, Innovation Showcases, and Defence Diplomacy For the first time, DIMDEX features specialised workshops hosted by exhibitors, allowing defence manufacturers to present the latest innovations directly to decision-makers and attending delegations. These sessions will run from 20 to 22 January, further strengthening the exhibition’s role as a bridge between global industry leaders and military authorities. Tomorrow, the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference will convene under the theme “Defence Diplomacy and Maritime Security Challenges”, reinforcing Qatar’s vision of diplomacy-driven conflict resolution and joint international cooperation. DIMDEX 2026: A Global Stage for Defence Excellence Held across more than 40,000 square metres at QNCC, DIMDEX 2026 is expected to attract over 25,000 attendees, making it one of the largest and most influential defence exhibitions in the Middle East and beyond. Registration for the exhibition and its accompanying activities is available at:https://bit.ly/4aEtajh For additional details, please visit www.dimdex.com and follow the event across all social media platforms.
QSTP and Merck Launch FemTech Accelerator to Advance Women’s Health Innovation Across MENA
Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, has announced a strategic partnership with Merck to launch the QSTP x Merck FemTech Accelerator—a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating innovation in women’s health across the Middle East and North Africa. The dedicated accelerator will identify and support up to 30 FemTech startups developing deep-tech, impact-driven solutions addressing critical unmet needs in women’s health. The programme focuses on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and materials science, supporting startups from early validation through to commercial expansion. Selected companies will gain access to QSTP’s innovation ecosystem and Merck’s global scientific and healthcare expertise, benefiting from curated mentorship, clinically aligned pilot opportunities, and structured market-entry pathways into Qatar, with scalability across regional and international markets. The accelerator is designed not only to support individual ventures, but also to generate measurable, trackable impact at scale, aligned with Qatar Foundation’s mission to improve health outcomes for women. Through a multi-country approach, the accelerator enables FemTech solutions to be piloted, validated, and adopted across multiple markets, addressing women’s health challenges at both regional and global levels. Startups will also engage with key stakeholders from Qatar’s healthcare ecosystem, including clinicians, regulators, investors, and innovation leaders. Commenting on the launch, Rama Chakaki, President of QSTP, said the accelerator reflects QSTP’s commitment to inclusive innovation and scalable impact. Meanwhile, Ahmed Aboelfadl, General Manager Gulf at Merck, highlighted the urgent need to address women’s health gaps through science- and technology-led solutions. The programme includes an intensive two-week immersion in Doha, equipping founders with market insights, regulatory understanding, and commercial readiness. Together, QSTP and Merck aim to position Qatar as a regional and global hub for women’s health innovation, advancing one of the fastest-growing sectors in global health technology.
Consulting HAUS Guides Snoonu Through Landmark $245M Acquisition, Marking Qatar’s First Billion-Riyal Tech Exit
Qatar’s technology and startup ecosystem reached a historic milestone as Snoonu was acquired by Jahez Group in a $245 million transaction, valuing the Doha-born platform at over QAR 1 billion. The deal represents Qatar’s first billion-riyal technology exit and one of the largest private capital infusions in the country’s history. At the centre of this landmark transaction was Consulting HAUS, which acted as exclusive sell-side advisor to Snoonu. The firm played a pivotal role in positioning the company for acquisition, safeguarding shareholder value, and securing favourable terms that reflected Snoonu’s rapid growth and regional ambitions. A Milestone for Qatar’s Tech Ecosystem The acquisition is widely viewed as a breakthrough moment for Qatar’s innovation landscape, signalling the maturity of its startup ecosystem and its growing relevance within the wider GCC technology market. By achieving a billion-riyal valuation, Snoonu has set a powerful precedent for local founders, investors, and emerging tech companies looking to scale beyond national borders. Consulting HAUS began its advisory mandate nearly a year before the transaction’s close, laying the groundwork through detailed business planning, operational readiness, and strategic positioning. This early-stage preparation proved critical in reducing friction during negotiations and ensuring the company entered the transaction process from a position of strength. Strategic Advisory at Every Stage Throughout the deal, Consulting HAUS led transaction execution, working closely with buy-side advisors, legal teams, and auditors. Its role spanned valuation strategy, deal structuring, due diligence coordination, and negotiation support—ensuring transparency, alignment among stakeholders, and disciplined project management at every stage. Commenting on the achievement, Laith Dajani, Managing Partner at Consulting HAUS, said the transaction demonstrates the importance of professional advisory in enabling successful cross-border GCC deals and highlights Qatar’s emergence as a hub for technology innovation. From Snoonu’s perspective, the acquisition represents both scale and continuity. Hamad Al Hajri, CEO of Snoonu, noted that the partnership with Jahez Group brings new investment and regional momentum, while allowing the company to remain anchored in Qatar’s values, vision, and talent base. Setting a New Benchmark Backed by a leadership team with more than 100 years of combined experience, Consulting HAUS continues to play a central role in advancing high-impact transactions across the GCC. Over the past seven years, the firm has delivered multiple landmark projects that support economic diversification, private-sector growth, and cross-border investment. The Snoonu–Jahez transaction now stands as a benchmark deal—not only for Qatar’s tech sector, but for the broader regional startup and M&A landscape—demonstrating what is possible when innovation, ambition, and strategic advisory converge.
VoPay Establishes Global Headquarters in Qatar, Strengthening Doha’s Role as a Global Fintech Infrastructure Hub
VoPay International Inc., a leading global financial infrastructure platform, has officially established its global headquarters in Qatar, positioning Doha as the company’s primary hub for advancing digital financial infrastructure across MENA, Africa, Southeast Asia, and other high-growth markets, while continuing to support operations in North America, Europe, and Latin America. The strategic move reinforces Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global centre for fintech, cross-border payments, and financial system modernisation, aligned with the country’s long-term economic diversification agenda. Doha as the Engine of VoPay’s Global Expansion From its Doha headquarters, VoPay will expand and operate core financial infrastructure that supports central banks, financial institutions, governments, public-sector entities, and large enterprises. The platform enables institutions to modernise legacy financial systems, improve interoperability, and connect regional markets with global financial ecosystems through secure, scalable, and intelligent infrastructure. As part of its long-term commitment, VoPay plans to hire more than 400 highly skilled professionals in Qatar over the next three years, spanning engineering, technology, cybersecurity, compliance, data, and platform operations—further strengthening Qatar’s role as a sustainable hub for financial infrastructure development. Alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 VoPay’s decision closely aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, digital transformation, and the development of a knowledge-based economy under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Commenting on the announcement, VoPay Founder and CEO Hamed Arbabi stated that Qatar offers a unique platform for scaling financial infrastructure that connects regions, institutions, and markets with resilience and intelligence—making it a natural choice for the company’s global headquarters. Strategic Support from Invest Qatar and QFC VoPay’s expansion into Qatar has been supported by Invest Qatar, which played a key role in facilitating the company’s market entry and long-term growth strategy. Operating within the ecosystem of the Qatar Financial Centre, VoPay benefits from a robust regulatory framework designed to attract global financial technology leaders. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, noted that VoPay’s investment further reinforces Qatar’s commitment to building a diversified, innovation-driven economy and positioning the country as a global hub for advanced financial technologies. Qatar’s Rise as a Global Financial Infrastructure Platform By anchoring its global headquarters in Doha, VoPay is contributing to Qatar’s emergence as a trusted platform for digital financial infrastructure, enabling cross-border financial coordination, institutional collaboration, and large-scale interoperability across regions. The Doha headquarters will serve as a strategic coordination centre for initiatives supporting financial system modernisation throughout the Gulf, MENA, Africa, and Southeast Asia—enhancing capital flows, data connectivity, and secure financial operations across borders. Powering the Future of Finance from Qatar Through applied artificial intelligence, mature infrastructure technology, and global financial connectivity, VoPay’s platform bridges regional financial systems with international banking frameworks. This enables institutions operating from Qatar to integrate seamlessly with global markets, reinforcing Doha’s role as a convening point for resilient, intelligent, and future-ready financial infrastructure. As Qatar continues to attract global fintech leaders, VoPay’s decision marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a world-class hub for digital finance and financial innovation.
ROBOTECH 26
Positioning Qatar as a Regional Hub for Advanced Technology Investment Qatar is set to strengthen its leadership in advanced technology and digital innovation with the launch of ROBOTECH 26, the international exhibition dedicated to robotics, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. The landmark event will take place in Doha from 27–29 October 2026, bringing together global innovators, investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. Aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, ROBOTECH 26 reflects the country’s strategic focus on building a resilient digital economy and expanding long-term capabilities in artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, and smart technologies. A Strategic Platform for Innovation and Investment ROBOTECH 26 is designed as a high-impact platform to attract regional and international technology investment, foster cross-border partnerships, and accelerate the adoption of next-generation technologies across key sectors. With participation from more than 200 specialised companies, the exhibition will showcase cutting-edge solutions spanning: The event will offer live demonstrations, hands-on technology experiences, expert panels, and business matchmaking—enabling stakeholders to explore both the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of AI and robotics. Leadership Perspectives Speaking at the official press conference, Haitham Shehab, General Manager of the organising company Stallion, highlighted the significance of hosting the first edition of ROBOTECH in Qatar. He noted that the exhibition creates a rare opportunity for businesses, professionals, and the wider community to engage directly with robotics and AI technologies, discuss real-world applications, and address both the positive and critical dimensions of artificial intelligence alongside global experts. Shehab also emphasised Qatar’s rapid progress under the Digital Agenda 2030, underscoring the importance of transforming toward digital platforms and knowledge-based industries as core drivers of sustainable economic growth. Global Participation and Knowledge Exchange ROBOTECH 26 will welcome international pavilions and country-led delegations, positioning Doha as a convening point for global technology leaders. The exhibition is open to companies from across the world specialising in AI, robotics, automation, and advanced digital systems—ensuring strong international representation alongside Qatari innovators. A dedicated education pavilion will feature universities, research centres, and academic institutions, reinforcing Qatar’s commitment to talent development, research, and future-ready skills in advanced technologies. Qatar’s Growing Digital Competitiveness Qatar’s hosting of ROBOTECH 26 builds on its rising global standing in digital performance. In 2025, Qatar ranked among the top 20 countries worldwide in the World Digital Competitiveness Ranking published by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), reflecting strong progress in technology adoption, infrastructure, and innovation readiness. Globally, the artificial intelligence market continues to expand at unprecedented scale, with projections estimating growth towards USD 826 billion by 2030, while the global robotics market is expected to exceed USD 189 billion by 2027. ROBOTECH 26 arrives at a critical moment, positioning Qatar at the forefront of this transformation. Driving the Future from Doha Drawing parallels with Qatar’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, organisers believe ROBOTECH 26 will further demonstrate the country’s capability to lead large-scale, high-impact international initiatives—this time within the technology and innovation landscape. By bringing together government entities, global technology leaders, investors, educators, and entrepreneurs, ROBOTECH 26 is set to play a defining role in establishing Doha as the GCC’s next hub for artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced technology investment.
MCIT Renews Its Framework Agreement with Google Cloud at MWC25 Doha, Strengthening Qatar’s Digital Transformation Agenda
• Renewal of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s (MCIT) master framework agreement with Google Cloud announced at MWC25 Doha• Agreement enhances secure cloud computing, AI integration, and data-driven government services across Qatar The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has officially renewed its strategic framework agreement with Google Cloud during MWC25 Doha, reinforcing Qatar’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation and building a world-leading smart government ecosystem. The renewed agreement empowers Qatar’s government entities to continue adopting secure cloud solutions, generative AI technologies, and advanced data analytics, all supported by Google Cloud’s local region in Doha. This collaboration strengthens operational efficiency, ensures resilient digital infrastructure, and enhances public service delivery in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country’s Digital Agenda 2030. Mr Sami Mohammed Al Shammari, Assistant Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Operations Affairs at MCIT, and Mr Ghassan Kosta, Regional General Manager for Google Cloud across Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Iraq, signed the agreement. Driving Qatar’s Next Era of Digital Government Commenting on the renewed collaboration,Mr Sami Mohammed Al Shammari stated: “Our reinforced collaboration with Google Cloud has been instrumental in advancing Qatar’s digital landscape. Today, I am pleased to announce the renewal of this critical framework agreement at MWC25 Doha. This action is a clear testament to our successful partnership and Google Cloud’s tangible contributions to our nation’s technological advancement. By providing cutting-edge, secure cloud solutions—particularly in AI and data analytics—we are empowering government entities to enhance services, drive efficiency, and accelerate digital progress across all sectors. We look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership as we build Qatar’s digital future and realise the ambitious goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.” Google Cloud: A Strategic Partner in National Digital Transformation Mr Ghassan Kosta emphasised Google Cloud’s long-term commitment to Qatar: “We are deeply honoured and strategically committed to the renewal of our Master Framework Agreement with MCIT. Announcing this alliance at MWC25 Doha is a defining moment. MCIT’s continued confidence in Google Cloud—delivered through our local Doha region—affirms the unmatched value of our intelligent cloud infrastructure. From AI to robust security, we are committed to accelerating Qatar’s digital transformation, empowering public services, and supporting its dynamic, knowledge-based economy.” Building a Future-Ready Digital Ecosystem This renewed partnership is one of several high-impact digital initiatives unveiled during MWC25 Doha, all aimed at strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading regional hub for innovation, cloud technology, and AI adoption. MCIT continues to drive the development of an integrated national digital ecosystem, ensuring government entities have access to the best tools, global expertise, and world-class cloud infrastructure needed to deliver efficient, scalable, and citizen-centric services.
Qatar’s MCIT and GSMA Advance Partner to Accelerate National Digital Skills Development
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has announced a landmark five-year partnership initiative with GSMA Advance to strengthen Qatar’s digital workforce and accelerate the country’s digital transformation. The collaboration supports the Qatar Digital Academy (QDA) and aligns directly with the nation’s Digital Agenda 2030. As Qatar drives toward a knowledge-based economy, the Digital Agenda outlines an ambitious plan to create 26,000 new ICT jobs and generate an additional 40 billion QAR in economic value by 2030. Strengthening digital competency across the workforce is central to this mission. Empowering Qatar’s Workforce Through Advanced Digital Skills Under the new partnership, GSMA Advance — the global mobile industry’s training and skills division — will deliver enhanced, accredited education programs for QDA participants. These programs will feature flexible learning pathways spanning in-person, virtual, and blended formats, ensuring accessibility for professionals across sectors. As part of the collaboration, the QDA will join the GSMA Advance People Excellence Partner Programme, co-designing innovative training modules to cultivate next-generation expertise in technology, connectivity, and digital innovation. A Strategic Move Towards Qatar’s Digital Future Duha Al Buhendi, Director of Digital Society and Digital Competencies at MCIT, emphasized the initiative’s national importance: “The partnership with GSMA Advance strengthens Qatar Digital Academy’s efforts in developing competencies and promoting continuous learning. We aim to empower our workforce with the latest technological skills to drive innovation and achieve the objectives of the Digital Agenda 2030, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a regional hub for digital excellence.” Dr. Drew MacFarlane, Head of GSMA Advance, highlighted the transformative impact of the programme: “Alongside MWC Doha, GSMA Advance’s partnership with the QDA will help create a long-lasting legacy for the country, aligned with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030. By equipping the country’s ICT workforce with the latest digital skills and knowledge, we will further drive digital transformation and economic growth.” Driving Innovation, Competitiveness, and Inclusive Growth Through the partnership, GSMA Advance will bring world-class training methodologies informed by the GSMA’s global leadership in telecom policy, standards, and technological innovation. With a portfolio of expert-led, sector-specific accreditations, GSMA Advance aims to bridge skills gaps, nurture innovation, and foster workplace diversity. The initiative strengthens Qatar’s position as a digital leader in the region — empowering professionals, enabling industry excellence, and supporting the nation’s long-term transformation into a globally competitive digital hub.
MWC25 Doha Concludes with 9,500 Attendees, Cementing MENA’s Influence in Global Connectivity
GSMA MWC25 Doha—held in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)—closed its inaugural edition today after two power-packed days of business engagements, groundbreaking showcases, and high-level discussions. The event marked a historic milestone, positioning the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as one of the most influential forces shaping the future of global connectivity. Hosted for the first time in the MENA region, MWC Doha demonstrated Qatar’s digital leadership and its rising role as a driver of innovation, investment, and next-generation technologies. A Landmark Debut for MWC Doha MWC25 Doha delivered impressive numbers, reinforcing its success: These figures reflect a powerful debut and underscore MWC Doha’s emergence as a global stage for digital transformation across the region. Revolutionary Tech Demonstrations on the Show Floor MWC25 Doha brought future technology to life with extraordinary demos: • 4,300 km Remotely Driven Car The GSMA Fusion Elmo showcase allowed attendees in Doha to remotely control a vehicle navigating the streets of Tallinn, Estonia—over 4,300 km away—using 5G Standalone (SA) technology. This unprecedented demonstration highlighted the future of autonomous mobility and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). • 5G-SA Powered E-Sports Racing Esports enthusiasts experienced lightning-fast, ultra-low-latency racing powered by Ooredoo Qatar’s 5G-SA network. Curated with GSMA Fusion and Veloce, the experience showcased how 5G is reshaping gaming, entertainment, and immersive fan engagement. Global Leaders Share Vision for the Region’s Digital Future John Hoffman, CEO of GSMA Ltd., expressed his appreciation:“MWC Doha has proven what’s possible when a region steps forward with clarity, ambition, and investment. Doha and the wider MENA region are now catalysts for innovation, bringing together people, ideas, and partnerships that move our industry forward.” Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the GSMA, reinforced the significance of the event:“Launching MWC in Doha at this pivotal moment gives the region a platform to show the scale of its digital ambition. The momentum here is real. However, ensuring digital progress reaches every community across MENA requires sustained collaboration. This inaugural edition is a major step in that direction.” Driving Inclusive Digital Growth Across MENA A key theme throughout MWC25 Doha was addressing the regional usage gap, with over 340 million people still offline despite mobile broadband coverage. The GSMA highlighted initiatives—especially through GSMA Mobile for Development—that aim to: MWC Doha became a crucial platform for advancing these shared goals and unlocking the full potential of MENA’s digital economy. Looking Ahead MWC25 Doha marks a defining moment for the region. With Qatar serving as a strategic host, the event successfully connected global decision-makers, innovators, and thought leaders—laying the foundation for new partnerships, investments, and transformative technologies. As the GSMA concludes its 2025 global event series, attention now shifts to MWC26 Barcelona, taking place from 2–5 March 2026, before the region gathers once again for the next edition of MWC Doha.
