ICT
From The Report: Qatar 2024
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The prioritisation of the ICT sector is rooted in Qatar’s ambition to become a knowledge-based economy, in line with its long-term economic development plan. This strategy is a cornerstone of its diversification ambitions, with spending on ICT set to reach $6.2bn by 2026, compared to $5.6bn in 2023. Building upon this, the country has implemented a series of strategic initiatives and projects within the sector. These efforts encompass a wide range of areas, including e-government platforms, infrastructure and talent development, entrepreneurship and international partnerships to boost connectivity. By focusing on these key areas, Qatar consistently performs highly in various international metrics.

This chapter contains interviews with Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and IT; Ahmad Mohammed Al Kuwari, CEO of Qatar National Broadband Network; and Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, CEO of Ooredoo.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Enhanced connectivity: Advancements in cybersecurity and cloud-computing capabilities underscore commitment to economic diversification
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Qatar’s prioritisation of its ICT sector is rooted in its ambition to become a knowledge-based economy, in line with the overarching economic development plan, Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV). This strategy is a cornerstone of its economic diversification plans and growth, with spending on ICT set to reach $6.2bn by 2026, compared to $5.6bn in 2023, according to US-based digital market intelligence firm International Data Corporation. This underscores the pivotal role that the intersection of…

Analysis

Digital solutions: National development blueprint outlines steps for sustainable growth, with focus on technological advancement
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Qatar is in the initial phases of its National Development Strategy 2024-30 (NDS-3) to transform the country into an advanced economy capable of sustainable development. The plan prioritises competitiveness, innovation and institutional excellence, while balancing sustainable growth and social cohesion. The NDS-3 outlines seven strategic national outcomes that represent the main strategic priorities for the country’s next phase of development: sustainable economic growth, fiscal sustainability,…

Interview

Local development: Mohammed Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and IT, on creating the conditions to enable digital innovation
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Interview: Mohammed Al Mannai What does the government hope to achieve with the launch of Digital Agenda 2030? MOHAMMED AL MANNAI: The goal is to position Qatar as a global technological centre, leveraging fields like artificial intelligence to foster innovation and transformation across industries. We aim to drive Qatar’s competitiveness and prosperity by embracing digital advancement, and establishing a digital economy that features a conducive business environment and high-yield digital investment…

Interview

Technological advancements: Ahmad Mohammed Al Kuwari, CEO, Qatar National Broadband Network (QNBN), on the benefits of increased digital inclusion
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Interview:Ahmad Mohammed Al Kuwari How can fibre-optic networks expand to meet increasing broadband and data consumption? AHMAD MOHAMMED AL KUWARI: The exponential growth in broadband and data consumption became particularly evident following the Covid-19 pandemic, as various aspects of daily life became reliant on secure and robust connectivity. As of early 2023 Qatar’s internet penetration stood at 99%, a 0.8% rise from 2022, or a 21,000-user increase. With the growing demand for…

Analysis

Heightened concern: Governments work to counter a global rise in cyberthreats stemming from digitalisation and the shift to remote work
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The conflict in Ukraine has caused disruption across the global economy, prompting an increase in the number and sophistication of cyberattacks. According to a poll of 800 chief audit executives conducted by the UK-based Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors, 77% of respondents thought the conflict in Ukraine had elevated cybersecurity and data-security risks. Senior cybersecurity analysts have said the invasion has been accompanied by a sustained cyber-conflict, with a large number of attacks…

Interview

Connectivity gains: Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, CEO, Ooredoo, on harnessing new technologies to meet market demands
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Interview:Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani In what ways are upgrades to the 5G network expected to improve costumer experience? SHEIKH ALI BIN JABOR AL THANI: Key capabilities of 5G include higher download speeds and ultra-low latency. These improve overall customer satisfaction, especially for streaming services, as reduced buffering allows for smoother content delivery. The benefits of ultra-low latency extend beyond entertainment to applications in the e-sports space, virtual reality (VR)…