Doha is set to welcome the global technology community for the inaugural Web Summit Qatar, running from February 26 to February 29 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The event marks a significant milestone, underscoring Qatar’s growing prominence as a global hub for technology, entrepreneurship, and the knowledge economy.
This first-ever MENA edition of the world-renowned tech conference has generated unprecedented momentum, attracting a massive gathering of technology giants, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers from around the world, positioning Doha as an influential player on the global digital stage.
A Global Gathering in Doha
The summit is expecting more than 30,000 attendees, with official and tech delegations representing over 120 countries. The event will also host 1,600 startups selected from thousands of applicants, alongside 700 investors from venture capital funds, sovereign wealth firms, and global financial institutions.
A lineup of 380 speakers, including top-tier CEOs, innovators, and thought leaders, will deliver over 100 hours of specialized content covering the most critical transformations in technology and economics.
Tech Titans and Regional Leaders Take the Stage
Web Summit Qatar will feature prominent figures shaping the future of technology. Notable speakers include Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who will lead discussions on humanizing technology and innovation’s role in education and community development.
Joining her are global tech leaders such as Eduardo Saverin, Co-founder of Facebook, who will discuss the future of tech investment amidst geopolitical shifts. Cliff Obrecht, Co-founder and COO of Canva, will share insights on the platform’s AI-driven design evolution, while Cristóbal Valenzuela, CEO of Runway, will explore the forefront of generative video technology.
His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, will also be present to highlight the key pillars of Qatar’s Digital Strategy 2030.
Mapping the Future Across 14 Tech Tracks
The summit’s agenda is structured across 14 specialized tracks that address pressing technological and economic issues. These include artificial intelligence and its applications in industry, medicine, and security; the future of FinTech and blockchain; energy and sustainability technologies; the creator economy; smart cities; and sports tech.
This diverse range of topics reflects a clear focus on transforming innovation into practical solutions for global challenges such as financial inclusion, the green transition, healthcare, and content creation.
Fostering Connections and Competition
Beyond the main stage talks, the summit will host the acclaimed PITCH competition, where startups will compete head-to-head in front of investors to secure funding and strategic partnerships.
The networking opportunities will continue after hours with the Night Summit, held at the Old Doha Port and Katara Cultural Village. These informal gatherings provide a relaxed environment for entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers to connect and build relationships.
Start Up Qatar Aims to Attract Global Talent
In conjunction with the summit, the Start Up Qatar platform will serve as a dedicated national pavilion showcasing incentives to attract global companies. The initiative offers a comprehensive package including tax exemptions, streamlined licensing procedures, and support and funding programs, aiming to position Doha as a regional headquarters for international businesses.
About Web Summit
Web Summit runs the world’s largest technology events, connecting people and ideas that change the world. It hosts events across the globe, including Web Summit in Lisbon, Web Summit Rio in Rio de Janeiro, Collision in Toronto, and RISE in Hong Kong. Its mission is to create meaningful connections between the CEOs, founders, investors, media, politicians, and cultural figures who are reshaping the world.
Source: Arab Founders
