In a significant move to bolster its digital economy, the State of Qatar’s Government Communications Office (GCO) has signed two strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Snap Inc.. Announced during Web Summit Qatar 2026, the multi-year collaboration aims to foster creator innovation, digital storytelling, and talent development, further positioning Doha as a key regional hub for media and the creator economy.
Cultivating a Creator Ecosystem
The first MoU establishes a long-term partnership to host Snap’s prestigious Creators Summit in Doha for three consecutive years, beginning in 2026. This follows the successful 2025 summit, which was the first time the event was held in the Middle East. The initiative is designed to support the growth and visibility of Snap’s creator community, bringing together top talent from the region and across the globe to the Qatari capital.
The collaboration will also explore further opportunities to cement Doha’s status as a center for digital innovation and culture through additional high-impact programming hosted in the country.
Strengthening Media and Talent Development
The second MoU concentrates on developing Qatar’s advertising and media landscape. Key initiatives include a series of workshops covering media strategy, creator-driven storytelling, and digital platform best practices.
A central component of this partnership is the creation of internship and talent development programs. These programs will identify and mentor emerging Qatari and non-Qatari professionals and recent graduates in media and communications. By providing practical experience and industry exposure, the initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of media leaders and promote knowledge-sharing between global platforms and Qatar’s local advertising community.
A Strategic Vision for Qatar
The partnership aligns directly with the nation’s strategic goals for digital transformation and creative industry growth.
Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organizing Committee, stated, “We are committed to shaping a creator ecosystem that is innovative, globally connected, and driven by talent, in line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. As our partnership with Snap Inc. continues to evolve, these MoUs underscore our shared focus on developing human capital, advancing innovation, and enabling the region’s talent through new models for digital media and content creation.”
ussein Freijeh, Vice President of Snap Inc. MENA & APAC, commented on the collaboration, “Qatar has consistently demonstrated a clear vision for building a future-ready digital and creative economy. Through these MoUs, we are deepening our long-term commitment to the country by supporting creators, developing media talent, and sharing regional best practices that help the next generation of storytellers and advertisers thrive.”
About The Government Communications Office
The Government Communications Office was established in 2015 to coordinate communications activities across government and semi-government institutions in Qatar. It is responsible for showcasing the country’s vision, initiatives, and achievements on a global stage.
About Snap Inc.
Snap is a technology company focused on improving communication through the camera. Its core products include Snapchat, a visual messaging app; Lens Studio, an augmented reality platform; and its AR glasses, Spectacles. Snap aims to contribute to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together.
Source: Zawya
