Qatar is emerging as a hub of major global industry conferences and exhibitions, drawing in industry leaders from across the globe. With state-of-the-art mobility infrastructure, venues and ease of business, the country has seen a lot of progress in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector. Doha has been successfully hosting leading industry events such as Doha Watches and Jewellery Exhibition, Geneva International Motor Show Qatar, and Web Summit Qatar. This year’s Web Summit was a huge success with record participation by startups, entrepreneurs, and tech and media leaders. Qatar has now also signed an agreement to host Mobile World Congress (MWC Doha) for five consecutive years, marking a historic first for the Middle East and North Africa region. The agreement was signed at the ongoing MWC Barcelona. Minister of Communications and Information Technology H E Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, who signed the agreement, said MWC serves as a global platform to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among companies and experts. MWC will be the second mega tech event, after Web Summit, to be held in Doha annually. It will accelerate digital transformation and solidify Qatar’s position as a global hub for digital innovation, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030. MWC Doha’s inaugural edition is set for November 25-26 this year, marking the first time for the congress to be held in the region. The congress will accelerate the adoption of digital solutions and enhance Qatar’s leadership position in the ICT sector. It will also aid the country’s efforts to build a knowledge economy under its Qatar National Vision 2030. Since the launch of the 2030 vision in 2008, Qatar has implemented tremendous technological progress. It boasts state-of-the-art mobile and fixed connectivity infrastructure, with approximately 96% of the population covered by 5G and nearly 99% covered by fibre connectivity. The country has also attracted leading technology companies and hosted the most digitally advanced FIFA World Cup tournament in history. Qatar’s journey to digital transformation aligns with the nation’s broader vision to diversify its economy and establish itself as a knowledge-based economy. Qatar aims to enhance its leading position in digital inclusion regionally and globally by continuously investing in digital infrastructure and education. The future goals include increase in digital access, improvement in digital competencies for citizens and residents, boost in digital skills and digital trust. MWC Doha will be coming to the region at a pivotal point and is sure to boost Qatar’s and region’s ICT sector.
