The inaugural edition of MWC Doha has successfully concluded, marking a significant moment for the MENA region’s expanding influence within the global connectivity and technology ecosystem. Organized by the GSMA in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the two-day event firmly positioned Doha as a new hub for discussions on digital transformation, AI, and the future of intelligent networks.
A Global Gathering in Doha
The event drew an impressive crowd, welcoming almost 9,500 unique attendees from over 110 countries and territories. The seniority of the participants highlighted the event’s strategic importance, with 20% of attendees at the C-suite level and 41% holding director-level positions or higher. Underscoring the convergence of technology across all sectors, 61% of participants came from industries adjacent to the core mobile ecosystem, signaling broad interest in the region’s digital future.
Qatar’s National Vision on Display
A key highlight was the Qatar Pavilion, which showcased 32 national digital projects presented by 17 government entities. The pavilion offered international delegations a comprehensive view of the nation’s progress in smart cities, digital government services, AI-powered solutions, and other emerging technologies, attracting continuous engagement from policymakers and global experts.
HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, stated, “The first edition of MWC25 Doha highlights the important role our region can play in shaping the future of telecommunications and information technology. Hosting this level of global expertise and major technology companies in Doha demonstrates the ability of our economies to harness 5G and next-generation networks, artificial intelligence, and intelligent digital platforms in practical applications that support innovation and sustainable growth.”
Vivek Badrinath, Director-General of the GSMA, added, “Launching MWC in Doha at this pivotal moment gives the region a platform to show the scale of its digital ambition. The energy and focus across the event have been clear, with government and industry leveraging this inaugural edition to advance practical solutions and support new partnerships.”
Fostering Global Dialogue and Partnerships
The MWC Doha agenda featured a rich lineup of panel discussions and sessions with nearly 300 global speakers who addressed key trends in 5G evolution, cloud technologies, AI, and cybersecurity resilience. The exhibition floor brought together over 250 exhibitors and sponsors, providing a platform for leading technology companies to present interactive showcases of next-generation digital services.
A cornerstone of the event was the GSMA Ministerial Programme, which convened over 60 official delegations from 49 countries and representatives from more than ten international organizations to foster high-level policy dialogue and collaboration.
About GSMA
The GSMA is a global organisation unifying the mobile ecosystem to discover, develop and deliver innovation foundational to positive business environments and societal change. The organization’s vision is to unlock the full power of connectivity so that people, industry, and society thrive. Representing mobile operators and organisations across the mobile ecosystem and adjacent industries, the GSMA delivers leading events such as Mobile World Congress, MWC Shanghai, MWC Kigali and MWC Las Vegas.
Source: Zawya
