WISE Policy Dialogue Explores AI and Teacher Readiness in K–12 Education
The World Innovation Summit for Education, WISE, an initiative of Qatar Foundation, hosted a policy dialogue event titled “AI & Teacher Readiness in K–12 Education: Global Research Findings and Strategic Implications”, bringing together education experts, policy voices and school practitioners to examine how artificial intelligence standards can be practically implemented in school environments. The discussion focused on one of the most urgent questions facing education systems today: how prepared are teachers to use AI meaningfully, responsibly and effectively in the classroom? As artificial intelligence continues to move rapidly into schools, the event highlighted the need for stronger teacher support, professional development, national evaluation frameworks and AI tools that reflect local language, culture and curriculum needs. AI Is Moving Faster Than Education Policy Opening the dialogue, Selma Talha-Jebril, WISE Research and Policy Director, said artificial intelligence is entering classrooms faster than schools and policy systems have had time to prepare for it. Her remarks set the tone for a discussion that moved beyond the excitement around AI and focused instead on implementation, readiness and long-term educational value. The event examined how teachers are currently engaging with AI, with many using it for administrative or preparatory tasks. However, panelists noted that the real opportunity lies in moving towards deeper, transformational classroom applications that directly support teaching, learning and student innovation. Teacher Agency and Professional Development Take Centre Stage Moderated by Maimoona Junjunia, Research and Policy Associate at WISE, the discussion emphasized the importance of teacher agency in the adoption of AI. Panelists stressed that AI in education cannot succeed through technology deployment alone. Teachers need sustained professional development, clear guidance, trusted tools and the confidence to integrate AI into pedagogy in ways that enhance learning outcomes. The dialogue also addressed the importance of evaluating AI tools rigorously before integrating them into schools at scale. In this context, national initiatives such as the WISE EdTech Testbed were highlighted as essential mechanisms for testing whether education technologies deliver real value in classroom environments. Shahd Dauleh, Innovation Manager at WISE, said the WISE testbed helps move the conversation beyond hype by ensuring that AI tools are genuinely effective for teaching and learning. AI Tools Must Reflect Language, Culture and Values A key theme emerging from the discussion was the need for AI systems in education to be contextually relevant. Lolwa Al-Nuaimi, Assistant Director of the E-Learning & Digital Solutions Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, emphasized that for AI to succeed in education, it must reflect local language, culture and values while equipping teachers with the right tools. This point is particularly important for Qatar’s education sector, where strong digital infrastructure and national innovation ambitions have created a foundation for technology-led transformation. However, the discussion made clear that infrastructure alone is not enough. AI tools must be aligned with curricula, classroom realities, student needs and the cultural context in which learning takes place. Research Must Inform Policy and Practice The event also reinforced the broader purpose of the WISE Research & Policy Dialogue Series: ensuring that research findings do not remain confined to academic publications, but actively inform policy, practice and system-level decision-making. Selma Talha-Jebril noted that research only creates impact when it reaches the people with the power and responsibility to act on it. The dialogue series was positioned as a bridge between evidence, policy and education practice. This approach reflects a wider shift in education reform: moving from research as information to research as a tool for system transformation. From Classrooms to Innovation Labs Practical examples from schools offered a closer look at how AI can support student learning and innovation. Iyad Salameh, Teacher of Robotics and Automation at the Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School for Boys, shared how his students have used AI in hands-on projects. He noted that such projects show how students can use AI to build real-world solutions, turning classrooms into innovation labs. These examples highlighted the potential of AI to move beyond efficiency and automation. When implemented thoughtfully, AI can support creativity, problem-solving, applied learning and student-led innovation. For Qatar’s education ecosystem, this aligns closely with the country’s broader ambitions around digital transformation, innovation and future-ready skills. Qatar’s Teacher Readiness Gap One of the most important insights shared during the dialogue was the gap between teachers’ interest in AI and their understanding of how it works in education. According to Selma Talha-Jebril, WISE research found that 60% of teachers reported that AI helped them tailor instruction to meet diverse student needs. However, in Qatar, only 30% of surveyed teachers reported a strong understanding of how AI works in education. The finding points to a critical challenge for education systems: teachers are not necessarily resistant to AI, but many need tools, training and frameworks that are relevant to their classrooms. For Qatar, a country with advanced digital infrastructure and a strong national commitment to innovation, the opportunity is clear. The next phase of AI in education will depend not only on access to technology, but on building teacher confidence, capability and trust. Why It Matters The WISE policy dialogue placed teacher readiness at the centre of the AI education conversation. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in K–12 education, the success of these tools will depend on how well they serve teachers and students in real classroom settings. For Qatar, the discussion was especially significant. The country has invested heavily in education, digital infrastructure and innovation. The challenge now is to ensure that AI adoption in schools is guided by evidence, cultural relevance, teacher empowerment and measurable learning impact. The message from the dialogue was clear: AI can support the future of education, but only when teachers are prepared, supported and placed at the centre of the transformation.
Snoonu Invests in Qatari Startup HASIF Through Startup Factory Initiative
Snoonu has announced its investment in HASIF, a Qatari startup focused on smart accounting and financial compliance solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as part of the company’s Startup Factory initiative designed to empower entrepreneurs and accelerate innovation in Qatar. The investment follows the successful Startup Factory competition and showcase held in Doha last week, where emerging startups presented technology-driven solutions addressing key business and market challenges across multiple sectors. Founded by Qatar University graduates and young Qatari entrepreneurs Noof Alhbabi, Maryam Eisa, and Dana Alwadaani, HASIF is developing an AI-powered digital platform to simplify financial operations for SMEs. The platform enables businesses to manage accounting, invoicing, financial reporting, and compliance processes more efficiently through automation and intelligent financial tools. In addition to streamlining operations, HASIF connects companies with accounting professionals and helps businesses prepare for future VAT implementation and evolving digital compliance requirements in Qatar and across the region. The investment marks the second startup supported through the Snoonu Startup Factory initiative, following the company’s earlier investment in Sufra AI. The move reflects Snoonu’s broader strategy to strengthen Qatar’s startup ecosystem, support local talent, and contribute to the country’s transition toward a knowledge-based economy aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. As Qatar continues to position itself as a regional hub for entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation, initiatives such as Startup Factory are playing an increasingly important role in creating opportunities for young founders and in scaling homegrown businesses that address real market needs. The latest investment also highlights growing momentum in Qatar’s startup landscape, particularly in fintech, AI, and SME-focused digital solutions — sectors expected to continue growing as businesses across the Gulf accelerate digital transformation and compliance modernisation. With startups like HASIF entering the spotlight, Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to demonstrate its ability to produce scalable, innovation-driven companies with regional potential.
Qatar’s Window to the Universe
The Blue Horsehead Nebula (IC 4592), captured over seven nights from Sawda Natheel, southern Qatar. Image courtesy: Rabeea Alkuwari / NASA APOD A striking deep-space image captured from Qatar’s desert skies by astrophotographer Rabeea Alkuwari, selected as NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day. Qatari astrophotographer Rabeea Alkuwari has once again captured the world’s attention — and NASA’s — after his breathtaking image of the Blue Horsehead Nebula (IC 4592) was selected as NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day, marking his third such recognition from the world’s most celebrated space agency. Shot across seven painstaking nights from Sawda Natheel in southern Qatar, the image required two adjacent frames stitched together to capture the nebula’s full scale — a technical feat that reflects both the complexity of deep-sky imaging and the extraordinary clarity of Qatar’s desert skies. The subject, IC 4592 — the Blue Horsehead Nebula — is a reflection nebula in the constellation Scorpius, illuminated by the bright star Nu Scorpii. Its delicate blue hues and vast celestial structure make it one of the most visually striking deep-sky objects, and one of the most technically demanding to photograph. “Being able to share my work from the premium skies of Qatar with the world is always a pleasure.” -RABEEA ALKUWARI, ASTROPHOTOGRAPHER A mechanical engineer by profession and a stargazer by passion, Alkuwari’s achievement is a powerful reminder that world-class scientific artistry can emerge from right here in Qatar — from its silent desert plains, its expansive dark skies, and from the quiet ambition of those who look upward and refuse to stop reaching. WHY THIS MATTERS FOR QATAR Alkuwari’s recognition places Qatar on the global map of scientific and creative achievement — not through imported expertise, but through homegrown talent. His work demonstrates that Qatar’s people are capable of contributing to humanity’s greatest pursuit: understanding the universe. NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day programme, running since 1995, features a single image each day selected by professional astronomers for its scientific and artistic merit. To be selected once is remarkable. To be selected three times — from the same patch of desert sky in southern Qatar — is extraordinary. In a nation building its future across technology, science, education and culture, Alkuwari’s lens has become one of Qatar’s most powerful instruments of achievement — pointing not inward, but outward, into the infinite. “World-class scientific artistry can emerge from right here in Qatar.” -BUSINESS LEADERS QATAR
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.
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.
