Qatar’s strong ICT sector continues to underpin the government’s digital economy goals and wider digital value creation. Qatar had near-universal internet usage, high mobile penetration and some of the fastest broadband speeds globally as of April 2026, providing public and private entities with a strong base from which to adopt cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and data-led services.…
Qatar’s technology development ecosystem continues to gain momentum, with incubation-focused efforts beginning to deliver results and government attention shifting to market access, scale and commercial outcomes. The country has built a thriving support network for entrepreneurs through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) programmes, Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Startup…
As Gulf countries continue to pursue plans to diversify their economies and unlock job creation for their relatively young populations, they are investing in the growing industry around competitive video games known as e-sports. The region’s gaming market was estimated at $5.1bn in 2026, up from $4.6bn in 2025 and with 2031 projections anticipated at $9.3bn, expanding at a 12.7% compound annual growth…
Interview: Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, CEO, Ooredoo Qatar, on the next decade of digital opportunities and innovation for greater economic diversification in the country How will the next phase of growth in Qatar’s telecommunications and digital services market evolve, given that 5G coverage is near universal? SHEIKH ALI: The growth narrative for 2026 and beyond is no longer about connecting…
Qatar’s ICT sector continues to underpin the government’s digital economy goals and wider digital value creation. Qatar had near-universal internet usage, high mobile penetration and some of the fastest broadband speeds globally as of April 2026, providing public and private entities with a strong base from which to adopt cloud computing, artificial intelligence and data-led services. Digital Agenda…
Despite heightened regional uncertainty stemming from the 2026 Iran conflict, Qatar continues to demonstrate economic resilience, supported by its position as one of the world’s leading LNG exporters, strong fiscal fundamentals and prudent policymaking. While short-term disruption has affected energy exports, trade and logistics, the country remains committed to advancing the objectives of Qatar
Interview: Alaeddine Karim, Country General Manager, Microsoft Kuwait, on the increased importance of cybersecurity and how new technologies are set to enhance urban services In what ways do you see the adoption of cloud technologies evolving, particularly with the recent establishment of local data centres? ALAEDDINE KARIM: Cloud adoption has entered a new phase. Once seen mainly as an IT upgrade,…
Interview: Omar Al Omar, Minister of State for Communication Affairs, on accelerating access to global-grade digital cloud infrastructure How is the ICT sector evolving in response to projected growth of $5.8bn in 2024 to $12.4bn by 2032? OMAR AL OMAR: The forecasted expansion of the sector is a result of strategic investment and a core pillar of economic diversification under New Kuwait 2035. With…
Interview: Abdulaziz Al Babtain, CEO, Ooredoo Kuwait, on utilising technology advancements to support economic diversification What are the key drivers of growth and new revenue streams in Kuwait’s telecoms market, given near saturation in traditional services? ABDULAZIZ AL BABTAIN: The industry’s growth engine has shifted from basic connectivity to delivering digital value. In Kuwait the next…
With global geopolitical instability elevating the threat of cyberattacks against businesses and government agencies, the GCC is developing more robust and comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to respond to the evolving nature of such threats. Since experiencing their first major cyberattacks in the early 2010s, the six members of the GCC have looked at ways to bolster their cybersecurity by increasing…
