Web Summit Qatar 2025: Hub of Artificial Intelligence
This year’s expanded edition welcomed over 25,000 attendees from over 124 countries, more than 1,520 startups, over 600 investors, and more than 380 speakers alongside 180 industry partners. The event has also drawn unprecedented media interest, with representatives from over 600 media outlets. The second annual Web Summit held in Doha at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) between February 23 and 26 had a bevy of tech entrepreneurs and financial backers who got together to assess and understand the future of artificial intelligence (AI). His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, the largest technology event in the Middle East and North Africa. In his opening speech, HE the Prime Minister emphasised Qatar’s continued efforts to cement its position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. He highlighted the nation’s commitment to improving regulatory frameworks and creating new economic opportunities for the private sector. He stated: “Built on the back of our thriving energy sector, we are positioned for a private sector take-off. This launch will include even more transformative partnerships across key sectors, from pioneering fintech solutions to groundbreaking climate technologies.” HE the Prime Minister emphasised that Qatar will continue to reinforce its commitment to supporting startups, stating: “We plan to renovate our entire economy to make Qatar the top regional destination for startups and create an ecosystem for startups to innovate and thrive.” Qatar is seeking to use its gas wealth to help it become a regional AI leader amid rising competition from neighbouring Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Qatar had signed a five-year deal with Scale AI to deploy AI-powered tools and training in a push to improve government services in the country. 2025 Web Summit The summit kicked off with a series of panel discussions featuring prominent entrepreneurs from around the world, including Alexandr Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI, and Alexis Ohanian, Co-Founder of Reddit and General Partner at Seven Seven Six. Leading entrepreneurs from around the world, including Alexander Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI, and Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and general partner at Seven Seven Six, took centre stage at the event on the opening day. Key questions discussed at the summit were over the future of AI amid companies and investors that are changing that landscape more rapidly than what the players themselves expected. The United States and China are leading in preparedness for AI, said Wang of US company Scale AI. DeepSeek, the Chinese AI company that develops large language models that are competitive with OpenAI’s, but cost less to create. demonstrated that it is a relatively close race between the two countries and that others will have to follow suit soon.
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, opens the 21st edition of the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition
Under the patronage of His Excellency, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2025 opened to the public on January 30th at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The 21st edition, organised by Qatar Tourism and brought by Visit Qatar, was inaugurated with a ceremony attended by HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, and Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar. The event also welcomed various ministers, ambassadors, and dignitaries. Commenting on the opening of the exhibition, HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar remarked: ““The Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition is a prime example of Qatar’s ability to host world-class events that captivate global audiences, showcasing our growing status as a leading MICE destination in the region. This prestigious event not only celebrates the artistry of luxury craftsmanship but also aligns with our vision to create an ecosystem that attracts international business and encourages cultural exchange. As we unveil the 21st edition, we are delighted to offer industry professionals and global visitors the opportunity to engage in exclusive networking opportunities, while experiencing the unique fusion of heritage and modernity that defines Qatar. This year’s exhibition brings together the world’s most esteemed brands and designers, highlighting the artistry and innovation that define the industry.” QNB, the platinum sponsor of DJWE 2025, reiterated its longstanding commitment to this prestigious event. Commenting on this sponsorship, QNB Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Abdulla Mubarak Al Khalifa, said: “We are proud to always be among the first financial institutions to support local brands and provide encouraging incentives to Qatari entrepreneurs in all sectors and be a part of their success story. Sponsoring this prestigious event confirms the values of the QNB brand focused on bringing the culture of excellence and success to our business.” The week-long exhibition will feature exquisite collections, statement pieces, and innovative designs from over 500 brands including Al Fardan Jewellery, Al Majed Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Amiri Gems, Fifty-One East, Al Muftah Jewellery, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Arts and Gems and much more. In addition, the exhibition will host a diverse range of international brands, as well as established Qatari designers such as Ghand Jewellery, Kaltham’s Pavilion, M Royal Collection, Al Ghla Jewellery, and emerging Qatari designers Alya Jewelery and the One & Only Jewellery, continuing its tradition of blending heritage with innovation. The exhibition will also see the return of three highly anticipated pavilions including the Qatari Turkish, and Indian pavilions, each highlighting unique craftsmanship. Commenting on their participation, Ali Hussain Alfardan, Vice Chairman of Alfardan Group and President of Alfardan Jewellery, said: “In a historic first, this year’s exhibition marks a significant milestone as several prestigious brands, including Vacheron Constantin, Chopard, and other renowned jewelers, have chosen to showcase their collections at Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition before their appearance at the Geneva International Gem and Jewellery Show. He also shared: “It is a privilege to have contributed to designing a limited edition watch for Vacheron Constantin in celebration of their 270th anniversary, adding a personal touch to this remarkable milestone. Mr. Jamil bin Mahdi Al Majed, Vice Chairman of Al Majed Jewellery, said: “We are very thrilled to participate in the 21st edition of the DJWE and display the latest luxury designs for international and local brands.” In line with the traditions of previous editions, Al Majed Jewellery has established new exclusive partnerships with leading brands that will be unveiled during the exhibition in addition to the many brands that operate under the umbrella of Al Majed Jewellery and are achieving unique success in the Qatari market, said Mr. Jamil Al Majid. Commenting on this year’s exhibition, H.E. Sheikh Nawaf Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, said: “Since its inception in 1994, Amiri Gems has actively participated in raising the level of jewelry and precious watches trade in the State of Qatar in proportion to the purchasing power of Qatari citizens, which is considered one of the highest in the world. Hence, the decision to participate in the permanent annual participation in the Doha Watch and Jewellery Exhibition, from its first edition to its 21st edition this year, was the ideal strategic choice for Amiri Gems to continue presenting everything new in the world of luxury, sophistication and beauty. Finally, we would like to thank those in charge of managing the exhibition for their hospitality, management and development in a significant way, which contributes to increasing the success and reputation of the exhibition regionally and globally.” Fifty-One East has been a proud exhibitor at the DJWE since its inception, reinforcing its position as Qatar’s premier destination for timeless elegance. Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Bader Al-Darwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Fifty One East, said: “We are honored to participate in the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition, an event that has firmly established itself as a beacon of luxury and craftsmanship, not only on Qatar’s map but also on the international stage. Each year, the DJWE attracts a distinguished audience of collectors, connoisseurs, and clients from Qatar and around the world, reflecting the nation’s growing influence as a global hotspot for luxury. At Fifty-One East, we take pride in carefully selecting some of the rarest pieces and latest novelties from the brands we represent, ensuring they meet the grandeur and prestige of this remarkable event.” He added, “We extend our appreciation to the organizers for their dedication to creating such a remarkable platform. We invite all visitors to explore our pavilion and discover novelties from the world’s most esteemed brands, promising a journey of exquisite wonders.” Mr. Abdullah Almuftah Deputy Chairman of the Board at Al Muftah Jewellery, said: “Almuftah Jewellery, established in 1984, is proud to unveil an exquisite selection of jewellery and watches from prestigious global brands at the
Qatar Medicare Exhibition Kicks Off
Under the patronage of the Ministry of Public Health and in partnership with Qatar Chamber, H.E. Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Director of the Department of NCDs Preventive Programs at the Ministry of Public Health, inaugurated the first edition of Qatar’s International Healthcare and Medical Trade Exhibition and Conference, Qatar Medicare. Organized by International Fairs & Promotions (IFP Qatar), the event takes place from December 3 to 5, 2024, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), featuring wide participation. Bringing together around 100 local and international companies under one roof, the event welcomes health professionals, hospital representatives, medical service providers, distributors of medical devices and equipment, technology experts, and investors. The inauguration was attended by H.E. Mr. Faisal Mohamed Al-Emadi, Secretary General of Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), H.E. Ibrahim Abdullah Ali Abdullah, Board Member and Secretary of the QRCS; and Ms. Ibtihaj Al-Ahmadani, Board Member and Chair of the Health Committee at Qatar Chamber, alongside other prominent leaders in Qatar’s healthcare sector. Ms. Ibtihaj Al-Ahmadani, Board Member and Chair of the Health Committee at Qatar Chamber, said: “The healthcare sector is a key pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, and the state is working tirelessly to build a high-quality, efficient healthcare system through the National Health Strategy 2024–2030 under the theme ‘Health for All.’ The private sector will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision, given its proven capabilities in delivering exceptional healthcare services. Qatar Chamber is fully committed to encouraging investors and business owners to engage in healthcare and pharmaceutical projects, leveraging the sector’s investment-friendly environment. We are also dedicated to fostering collaboration between public and private entities to enhance sustainability and achieve self-sufficiency in medical services and pharmaceuticals. Qatar Medicare provides an exceptional platform for stakeholders in the healthcare sector to network, exchange ideas and expertise, and showcase the latest innovations and technological solutions in the field. This contributes to fostering collaboration and building new partnerships that benefit everyone involved.” For his part, H.E. Mr. Faisal Mohamed Al-Emadi, Secretary General of QRCS, stated: “We are pleased to take part in Qatar Medicare Exhibition, particularly following the successful conclusion of the QRCS’s second Annual Scientific Conference. This event provides an invaluable platform for exploring cutting-edge medical solutions and pioneering initiatives while offering opportunities to engage with representatives from local and international healthcare institutions, exchange expertise, and learn about innovations in health and emergency care. Participating in this event underscores our commitment to addressing healthcare challenges, enhancing collaboration with healthcare partners, and developing innovative projects that serve both Qatar and the global healthcare sector.” The exhibition features the participation and sponsorship of a diverse range of key governmental and semi-governmental entities vital to Qatar’s healthcare sector. Key partners include Hamad Medical Corporation and the Primary Health Care Corporation, the Official Partners, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Government Partner, the Qatar Red Crescent Society and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, the Gold Sponsors, and the Qatar Cancer Society, the Silver Sponsor. Additionally, a broad array of private sector entities, including hospitals, medical centers, insurance companies, medical equipment suppliers and healthcare service providers, are actively involved, showcasing the seamless collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing healthcare in Qatar. The exhibition showcases the latest healthcare innovations and technologies, presented by participating local and international entities, aiming to improve efficiency and quality of care, with an emphasis on digital transformation, including artificial intelligence, medical robotics, and electronic health records. It also explores investment opportunities in Qatar’s healthcare sector and plans for expanding healthcare infrastructure. Moreover, it includes specialized workshops and accredited sessions tailored for healthcare professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge of global best practices, while highlighting initiatives to improve healthcare services, including advances in primary care, disease prevention, and chronic disease management. Haidar Mshaimesh, General Manager of IFP Qatar, said: “Qatar Medicare Exhibition is an ideal platform for building partnerships between the public and private sectors in healthcare. Furthermore, it connects government entities like the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, and the Primary Health Care Corporation with private companies, enabling networking and collaboration. The event also helps private companies explore investments in state-led healthcare projects, contributing to the development of Qatar’s healthcare infrastructure, while promoting knowledge and technology transfer between global and local companies and government entities, fostering the adoption of innovative solutions to strengthen the healthcare system. Additionally, it features panel discussions and workshops to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, encouraging the exchange of ideas and experiences and the development of strategic alliances. The exhibition promotes partnerships that increase reliance on local healthcare products and services, reducing foreign dependence and promoting economic sustainability. It also highlights global standards in healthcare, such as patient safety and quality of care, while encouraging Qatari companies to deliver innovative medical services and products. This, in turn, strengthens the independence of the healthcare system and enhances the sector’s appeal to foreign investors.” Mr. Ashraf Alshoun, CEO of Al-Jazira Healthcare Manufacturing Company, the event’s Diamond Sponsor, stated: “Our company is dedicated to meeting the growing needs of Qatar’s healthcare system by providing high-quality medical supplies. Through our participation in this event, we aim to showcase our latest innovations, which are key to advancing the healthcare sector.” Joe Hazel, CEO of Apex Health, a leading healthcare group, stated: “Apex Health is glad to participate in Qatar Medicare 2024, showcasing our unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare in Qatar and the region. As Qatari healthcare company with a growing regional footprint, we are dedicated to supporting the development of world-class healthcare systems that prioritize innovation, accessibility, and excellence, ensuring healthier futures for all.” The conference agenda covers key topics including Qatar’s E-Health Strategy, mechanisms for advancing Qatar National Vision 2030, strategic health infrastructure investments, and building a competitive healthcare system. It also examines the National Health Strategy (2024–2030), the modernization program for Hamad General Hospital, alongside initiatives to provide high-quality healthcare for migrant workers in Qatar. Additionally, the conference explores future technologies transforming the healthcare
