Interview: Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and IT, on regulatory developments and efforts to foster a skilled labour force
How is the regulatory framework evolving to support innovation and competition in the ICT sector?
MOHAMMED BIN ALI BIN MOHAMMED AL MANNAI: Qatar’s regulatory framework is advancing in step with its Digital Agenda 2030 to promote innovation, fair competition and a secure digital economy. A consultative approach ensures alignment with national priorities and international standards. The National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy sets ethical and regulatory benchmarks for responsible deployment, while the Personal Data Privacy Protection Law enforces high standards for data handling and cybersecurity. A hybrid cloud policy balances data sovereignty with foreign investment, supported by local cloud regions through partnerships with Microsoft and Google.
In what ways is Qatar leveraging emerging technologies to accelerate digital transformation?
AL MANNAI: Qatar is integrating AI and cloud computing across sectors to enhance public services, operational efficiency and economic diversification. AI supports health care diagnostics, traffic management and financial services, while cloud platforms expand access to education, enable digital banking and streamline government operations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefit from national support programmes promoting cloud adoption. Collaboration with global providers has bolstered infrastructure and access to advanced tools. Challenges such as skills gaps, legacy systems, interoperability and AI trust are being addressed through training programmes, regulatory updates and multi-sector collaboration.
How has investment in digital infrastructure, including 5G expansion, improved connectivity?
AL MANNAI: Qatar has made strides in digital infrastructure to advance its knowledge-based economy. The rollout of 5G enables high-speed, low-latency connectivity for automation, internet of things and advanced applications across sectors. These efforts are reinforced by extensive fibre-optic networks, broadband penetration and smart city projects under the TASMU initiative, which use real-time data to improve urban living. Continued investment in local cloud regions ensures data sovereignty and service resilience. Remaining priorities include expanding connectivity in underserved areas and preparing for emerging technologies to secure Qatar’s role as a regional digital centre.
What steps is Qatar taking to strengthen its position as a regional leader in cybersecurity?
AL MANNAI: Cybersecurity is a core national priority for Qatar, guided by its National Cybersecurity Strategy, which emphasises prevention, response, capacity building and global cooperation. The National Cybersecurity Agency leads implementation across sectors like finance, energy and health care, focusing on risk assessments and threat intelligence. The Ministry of Communications and IT supports resilience through training initiatives such as the Qatar Cyber Drill. Qatar has invested in security operations centres and integrated cybersecurity standards into cloud and data protection laws. While large institutions have advanced in compliance, SMEs often face capacity gaps. To address this, the government offers tailored technical support, training and campaigns to boost public awareness.
How is Qatar fostering a skilled ICT workforce to meet the demand for new digital economy jobs?
AL MANNAI: Workforce development is vital for digital transformation. Qatar has launched training, scholarships and internships focused on ICT fields, in collaboration with global partners. Bodies such as Qatar Digital Academy and Qatar Science and Technology Park support continuous learning and entrepreneurship. Efforts to expand access to digital skills training for women, youth and mid-career professionals are ongoing. Priorities include aligning education with industry needs and ensuring inclusive access to advanced training.
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