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: Lana Khalaf, General Manager, Microsoft Qatar, on big data solutions revolutionising decision-making across industries How will cloud computing adoption evolve alongside the proliferation of local data centres? LANA KHALAF: Adoption of cloud computing is poised for considerable growth, thanks to Qatar’s visionary approach to digital transformation. The government’s commitment, exemplified…
Interview: Ahmed Abdullah AlMuslemani, President, Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), on supporting smart industries through infrastructure and workforce development What is being done to ensure digital infrastructure remains robust and adaptable, given the increasing importance of emerging technologies? AHMED ABDULLAH ALMUSLEMANI: Qatar ranks fourth globally in the 2024 International Telecommunication…
Interview: Sheikh Ali bin Jabor Al Thani, CEO, Ooredoo Qatar, on infrastructure-led innovation and inclusive growth Which measures are the ICT sector taking to support economic diversification and digital goals outlined under Qatar National Vision 2030? SHEIKH ALI BIN JABOR AL THANI: Core strategies include developing Qatar’s digital economy, advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging…
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,…
