GSMA MWC25 Doha Set to Transform Qatar into a Global Innovation Hub
Over 200 Visionary Speakers, 200 Exhibitors, and 60+ Countries to Gather in Doha this November The GSMA and Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT Qatar) have unveiled new details about the highly anticipated GSMA MWC25 Doha, which will take place on 25–26 November 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). As the first-ever MWC event in the MENA region, MWC25 Doha will be a cornerstone of Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030, setting the stage for groundbreaking dialogue and collaboration across technology, policy, and innovation. The two-day event will bring together: Positioning Qatar at the Heart of Global Digital Transformation At a press briefing held at DECC, the GSMA welcomed H.E. Mrs Reem Mohammed Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary of Digital Industry Affairs at MCIT Qatar, and Mr Khalid Aljumaily, Public Relations and Communication Director at MCIT Qatar, alongside GSMA CMO Lara Dewar and GSMA Ltd. CEO John Hoffman. His Excellency Mr Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasised: “Hosting the inaugural MWC25 Doha marks a historic milestone for Qatar and the region. It aligns with our mission to advance digital transformation under the Digital Agenda 2030 and the Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning Doha as a global meeting point for technology, innovation, and collaboration.” Strategic Partnerships to Drive Local and Global Impact The press conference also witnessed the signing of five key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the GSMA and significant national and international partners, including the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), Qatar University, Media City Qatar, Ooredoo, and Vodafone, to ensure the success and long-term impact of MWC Doha. A World-Class Lineup of Exhibitors and Themes The exhibition will feature technology leaders such as Cisco, Dell, Google Cloud, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Huawei, Mannai, Microsoft, Nokia, Ooredoo, PwC, Qatar University, VEON, Vodafone, ZTE, and Meeza, Qatar’s leading data center and AI services provider. According to Vivek Badrinath, Director General of GSMA: “We are thrilled to bring MWC to Doha — a city at the forefront of digital transformation. With its strong investment ecosystem and progressive innovation policies, Qatar is the perfect host for our first MWC in the region.” Exploring the Future of AI, Connectivity, and Digital Economies Spanning three halls, MWC25 Doha will spotlight the themes driving the next wave of digital evolution: The event will also debut 4YFN (Four Years From Now) — MWC’s official startup platform — alongside the GSMA Ministerial Programme, the GSMA Digital Leaders Programme, and Smart City Expo Doha, which is organised in collaboration with Fira de Barcelona. Registration Now Open General registration for MWC25 Doha is now open.🔗 Visit www.mwcdoha.com/passes to secure your place at this landmark event redefining the digital future of the MENA region.
Snoonu Attracts Top Talents From Global Tech Giants
As Snoonu accelerates its footprint across the Middle East, the Qatari-born tech powerhouse is attracting top-tier talent from global tech giants like DoorDash and Rappi, reinforcing its position as a rising leader in the region’s digital economy. With bold ambitions and a clear mission to deliver smarter, faster, and more human experiences, Snoonu has made two high-impact hires: Anastasia Zdoroviak as Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Estefania Read Elizalde as Director of CX Strategy & Operations. These appointments mark a turning point in Snoonu’s journey as it builds a world-class customer experience (CX) organisation. The company’s latest strategic hires reflect its commitment to innovation, diversity, and creating unforgettable digital experiences. “Bringing in global leaders like Anastasia and Estefania is not just about expertise—it’s about perspective,” said Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu. “Qatar’s tech ecosystem is becoming a magnet for global talent, and Snoonu is at the center of this transformation.” A seasoned CX leader with over a decade of experience across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe, Anastasia Zdoroviak brings an exceptional global lens to Snoonu. She previously led transformative customer experience functions at DoorDash and Rappi, two of the world’s most successful last-mile delivery platforms. With fluency in over a dozen languages and a passion for human-centered design, Anastasia is set to redefine personalised, tech-driven customer journeys at scale across the region. Meet Estefania Read Elizalde – Director of CX Strategy & Operations A U.S.-Mexico dual national and University of Cambridge MBA graduate, Estefania specialises in agile strategy and cross-functional CX operations. With a strong background in tech operations and new market scale-ups, Estefania is here to optimise Snoonu’s regional growth engine. Building the Middle East’s Most Multicultural Tech Team Snoonu’s CX team is now among the most diverse and multicultural in the GCC, representing a fusion of Silicon Valley mindset and Middle Eastern innovation. Backed by a new partnership with Jahez Group (Saudi Arabia)—one of the region’s leading digital platforms—Snoonu is fast becoming a central player in the Gulf’s integrated tech ecosystem.
Store974 Makes History as the First Arabic Brand to Represent Qatar at Computex 2025
Store974, Qatar’s leading name in gaming and tech retail, has officially put the nation on the global tech map by becoming the first Arabic brand to participate in Computex 2025—the world’s most prestigious and influential technology expo, held from May 20–23 in Taipei, Taiwan. A Landmark Moment for Qatar and the Arab World This proud milestone positions Store974 not only as a national success story but also as a Middle Eastern tech pioneer, representing the region’s ambitions, innovation, and talent on an international stage. “We are honored to represent Qatar and the Arab world at Computex 2025,” said Khalifa Al Haroon, CEO of Store974. “This is more than participation—it’s a statement that Qatar is serious about shaping the future of technology and gaming.” Capping off its powerful presence at Computex, Store974 won the Best Distributor Award for the second consecutive year, recognizing its excellence in retail innovation, global brand partnerships, and customer satisfaction. This achievement solidifies its position as a regional leader in gaming and technology distribution. Highlights from Computex 2025 Store974’s showcase featured: The booth was a magnet for international tech leaders, drawing attention to Qatar’s potential as a future hub for gaming, esports, and hardware innovation. Store974’s participation wasn’t just symbolic—it reflects a broader mission:To bridge the gap between the Middle East and the global technology landscape, encourage cross-border innovation, and open doors for regional players in the global arena.
Ibtechar Partners with AI Crafters to Accelerate AI Adoption in Qatar
Empowering organisations through cutting-edge AI solutions and supporting Qatar’s National AI Strategy In a bold move to strengthen Qatar’s digital innovation landscape, Ibtechar, a leading innovation consultancy, has announced a strategic two-year partnership with AI Crafters, a pioneering artificial intelligence firm. The collaboration aims to accelerate AI adoption in Qatar, enabling businesses and institutions to integrate AI into their operations and drive data-driven decision-making seamlessly. Building Qatar’s Future Through Artificial Intelligence This timely alliance supports Qatar’s National AI Strategy and Vision 2030, aiming to position Qatar as a regional hub for AI transformation. As AI reshapes industries globally, Qatar’s businesses face both opportunity and complexity in adopting the technology. The Ibtechar x AI Crafters partnership will address these challenges with:
ShipBee Secures QR855,000 in Pre-Seed Funding Led by GrowthX to Build AI-Powered Logistics Ecosystem
ShipBee, the AI-powered digital logistics startup transforming end-to-end delivery services across Qatar and the MENA region, has successfully closed its Pre-Seed funding round, raising QR855,000 from institutional and angel investors. This round was led by GrowthX (Angel VC) and supported by two individual investors, valuing the startup at QR3.57 million. In addition to external funding, ShipBee’s co-founders Tamer Raafat and Amer Azani have bootstrapped the company with over QR150,000, showcasing deep founder commitment to revolutionising logistics with smart technology. “This funding empowers us to scale our vision of simplifying logistics through cutting-edge technology,” said Tamer Raafat, Co-Founder & CEO of ShipBee. “We’re building an AI-driven ecosystem that makes logistics seamless for businesses and consumers across Qatar and the wider MENA region.” Launched in March 2024, ShipBee is building a one-stop digital logistics platform that integrates: ShipBee’s ecosystem enables real-time visibility, smart routing, scalable delivery operations, and seamless B2B and B2C logistics integration. ShipBee has already established major partnerships with industry leaders including Snoonu, Qatar Post, DHL, NEXX (China), and a growing number of local retail and service providers. Recognised for its innovation, ShipBee: This Pre-Seed round will support: Dr. Allan Villegas, a member of the QSTP executive board, has also joined ShipBee’s Board of Directors, further strengthening the company’s strategic direction. “As Qatar positions itself as a global logistics hub aligned with Vision 2030, ShipBee is helping lead that transformation,” said Hamad Al Hajri, CEO of GrowthX and Founder of Snoonu. “We believe in their vision and proudly support this next phase of growth.”
Project Qatar 2025
Innovation & Sustainability: Qatar’s Path to 2030 26–29 May 2025 | Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) Project Qatar 2025, the nation’s longest-running and most influential international construction and building materials exhibition, returns with a bold focus on innovation, sustainability, and smart manufacturing. Organised by IFP Qatar, the 21st edition brings together over 200 local and international companies, 70+ thought leaders, and thousands of industry professionals for four days of unmatched networking, collaboration, and transformation. Project Qatar 2025 is more than a trade show—it’s a strategic gateway into Qatar’s rapidly evolving construction and infrastructure sectors, aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030. The exhibition showcases next-generation technologies and sustainable solutions across: In support of the Qatar National Manufacturing Strategy 2024–2030, this dedicated zone introduces cutting-edge solutions in: This initiative aims to localize production, attract global partnerships, and position Qatar as a regional manufacturing hub. Project Qatar 2025 proudly welcomes official delegations, government partners, and business leaders from across the globe, including: A comprehensive conference series will spotlight innovation and progress across: In partnership with Qatar University, Project Qatar 2025 places a strong focus on youth engagement. The final day is dedicated to showcasing student-led projects and emerging talent in the fields of smart city development, environmental technology, and AI-driven innovation. #ProjectQatar2025 #QatarConstruction #SustainabilityInQatar #SmartManufacturing #InnovationInQatar #QatarTradeShow #Qatar2030Vision #Industry40Qatar #ConstructionExpoQatar #GreenTechMiddleEast
Al Abdulghani Motors Celebrates Young Talent at the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in Qatar
Empowering Youth, Inspiring Creativity, and Supporting Future Champions Al Abdulghani Motors, the authorised distributor of Toyota in Qatar, proudly hosted the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Award Ceremony at its state-of-the-art showroom in Lusail. The event marked the culmination of the 18th edition of the global art competition, celebrating the imagination, creativity, and dreams of Qatar’s young artists. The ceremony brought together over 500 participants from more than 200 schools across Qatar, along with their families, educators, and special guests, including celebrated Qatari athletes Ali Arshid and Cherif Younousse. The event underscored Al Abdulghani Motors’ ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent, promoting artistic expression, and inspiring the next generation of dreamers. A Canvas of Innovation and Hope The theme of the contest invited children to envision their “Dream Car”—a vehicle capable of making the world a better place. Submissions ranged from eco-friendly innovations and futuristic vehicles to designs that symbolised unity, compassion, and environmental consciousness. The contest was divided into three age categories: Three winners were chosen from each category and were recognised with certificates and exciting prizes during the event. Their artworks will now represent Qatar in the World Contest in Japan, where winners may receive prestigious accolades from Toyota Motor Corporation. Additionally, 25 finalists were acknowledged for their creativity, and three students were recognised in a special online voting competition hosted by Al Abdulghani Motors, giving the community a chance to support their favourite young artists. Inspiring the Next Generation with Qatari Champions Adding to the excitement, the event welcomed two of Qatar’s inspiring sports figures: The athletes engaged with students, shared stories of perseverance and discipline, and emphasised the importance of dreaming big—values that align with the spirit of the Dream Car Art Contest and Toyota’s global mission. A Legacy of Creativity and Social Responsibility Since its launch in 2004, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has inspired more than 9.4 million children from 144 countries. In Qatar, Al Abdulghani Motors continues to champion this initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. The contest not only celebrates creativity but also aligns with the company’s broader goals of empowering youth, promoting innovation, and achieving excellence in art, academics, and athletics. Driving the Future with Imagination The 18th edition of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest reaffirmed Al Abdulghani Motors’ belief in the power of youth and the importance of creative thinking in shaping a brighter tomorrow. By providing young talents with a global stage, the company remains dedicated to driving dreams forward and fueling a culture of imagination, passion, and positive change.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Honors Winners of the 2025 Ramadan Esports Tournament
Doha, Qatar, March 16, 2025: H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, honored the winners of the 2025 Ramadan Esports Tournament during a special closing ceremony held at Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha. The tournament aimed to enhance the engagement of industry stakeholders and provide employees of the ICT sector and their families with the opportunity to compete in a professional and competitive gaming environment. Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in collaboration with the Qatar Esports Federation and Project Infinite, a startup supported by the Digital Incubation Center, the tournament saw broad participation from esports enthusiasts across Qatar. Players competed in various electronic games, fostering a spirit of challenge and innovation. The tournament followed an individual competition format and featured two categories: the Majors Category, which included ICT sector employees, and the Juniors Category, comprising employees’ children under the age of 18. The event showcased high levels of competitive performance, with top winners receiving valuable prizes and gifts sponsored by tournament partners in recognition of their exceptional achievements. The tournament received strong support from leading companies and organizations. QNBN served as the Platinum Sponsor, while Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha was the Hospitality Sponsor. Microsoft and Promo Vision also contributed as Supporting Sponsors, playing a key role in the tournament’s success and enriching participants’ experiences. The Ramadan Esports Tournament stands as a prominent platform for fostering and developing the digital gaming sector in Qatar. It aims to encourage youth participation in this rapidly growing industry while providing local talent with opportunities to compete at both regional and global levels.
Mowasalat (Karwa) Spreads Joy on Garangao Night with a Special Community Initiative
Doha, Qatar – 14 March 2025: Mowasalat (Karwa) brought joy to children and families across Qatar by celebrating the tradition of Garangao at its booths in Doha Festival City, City Center and Villagio Mall. As part of this initiative, children visiting the booths were welcomed with festive treats, reinforcing the company’s commitment to preserving Qatari heritage and engaging with the community. Garangao, celebrated on the 14th night of Ramadan, is a beloved cultural tradition that strengthens community bonds and fills the night with joy and laughter. This gesture reflected Mowasalat’s dedication to social responsibility and its ongoing efforts to uphold Qatari traditions. Mohammed Abukhadija, Executive Director of Commercial Affairs in Mowasalat (Karwa) commented on the initiative, saying: “This initiative embodied our dedication to social responsibility and our pride in preserving our rich traditions. At Mowasalat, our role goes beyond transportation we are committed to strengthening our connection with the community and ensuring that our cultural heritage is passed on to future generations. The event saw a large turnout, with children eagerly gathering their treats and experiencing the festive spirit of the Garangao, bringing families together to celebrate in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Qatar’s Growing Influence in Media and Communications Takes Center Stage at MEPRA Leadership Majlis
Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse partner to establish Doha as a key hub for strategic communications in the region. 13 March 2025, Doha – Qatar: As the communications industry in the Middle East continues to evolve, Qatar is stepping up as a key player in the sector with the launch of the inaugural MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis. Taking place on Thursday, 1 May 2025, at W Doha, this crucial event will bring together industry leaders to discuss the future of PR, and explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities that are shaping the sector. As the region’s leading industry body, MEPRA plays a pivotal role in expanding and advancing the standards of public relations and communications across the Middle East, fostering knowledge exchange, and empowering professionals through thought leadership initiatives, research, and training. Under the theme “Outlook for PR in the Middle East”, Qatar’s first MEPRA Leadership Majlis was realized through the steadfast support of Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse—three leading agencies committed to advancing the nation’s position as a regional hub for strategic communications. Bringing together some of the brightest minds in communications, the insightful gathering will feature H.E. Gautam Bhattacharyya, Ambassador of Sweden to the State of Qatar; Dr. Marc Owen Jones, Associate Professor of Media Analytics at Northwestern University, Qatar; Dan Morland, Director of Communications and Public Policy at the Centre for Information Resilience; and Justin Kerr-Stevens, MEPRA Executive Board Member, Head of the MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis Committee, and CEO of BLJ Worldwide. Together, these experts will explore how AI is reshaping PR strategies, the growing challenges of misinformation and public trust, and how to balance digital transformation with cultural authenticity. Their discussions will offer real-world insights into leveraging technology while ensuring brands stay credible, relevant, and adaptable in an increasingly complex media environment. Commenting on the event, Kate Midttun, MEPRA Chairperson; Founder & CEO, Acorn Strategy, said: “This Majlis is an important moment for Qatar’s public relations industry. As media and communications strategies continue to transform, it is essential to create platforms like this for industry leaders to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and collaborate on solutions to ensure our shared growth. We extend our sincere gratitude to Action Global Communications, BLJ Worldwide, and Muse for their dedication in organizing this inaugural edition and we look forward to a thought-provoking and inspiring event in Doha.” The MEPRA Qatar Leadership Majlis is set to be a vital driver of innovation, thought leadership, and cross-border collaboration in PR and communications, reinforcing Qatar’s growing influence as a regional business and media hub. The event will conclude with the MEPRA Fellowship Presentation, honoring outstanding contributions to the industry, followed by a networking session where PR professionals, media experts, and business leaders can connect and explore potential partnerships and collaboration opportunities. To learn more or register for the event, visit mepra.org/events/2024mepramajlisqatar.
