The State of Qatar is moving forward with preparations to host MWC25 Doha
MWC25 Doha is expected to attract international participants from around 60 countries, including senior executives, technology leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators.
The event aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, supporting digital transformation and economic diversification.
MWC brings to Doha its unique combination of exhibition, thought leadership, startups and policymaking to create a space where innovation flows and business gets done
The event's conference and thought leadership agenda will feature thematic tracks on AI, fintech, smart mobility, 5G, IoT, and satellite innovation.
Startups and the investor community will gather at 4YFN, MWC's platform for the startup ecosystem which has facilitated contacts, exposure and investments for over a decade
Introducing the GSMA Ministerial Programme, the world's leading forum for policymakers and industry leaders who enable the digital economy to shape regional policy and foster global digital collaboration.
Doha, Qatar – Under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), continues its preparations to host the inaugural edition of MWC Doha on 25–26 November 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The event is organized by the GSMA, the global organisation unifying the mobile ecosystem, in partnership with MCIT.
This marks the first time the globally renowned MWC series will be held in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, positioning Doha as a strategic hub for global dialogue on digital transformation. MWC25 Doha is expected to attract international participants from around 60 countries, including 40% Director level as well as senior executives, technology leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators. The event will feature cutting-edge exhibitions, dynamic networking spaces, and high-level panels led by hundreds of global speakers.
H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, stated: 'Hosting MWC25 Doha under the patronage of His Excellency the Prime Minister reflects the national leadership's strategic vision to position Qatar at the forefront of global digital innovation. The event aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of the State of Qatar, to build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and future technologies. MWC25 Doha represents a key opportunity to engage with the world's top innovators, and create meaningful partnerships that drive impact both regionally and globally.'
Vivek Badrinath, Director General, GSMA, said: 'We are excited to bring MWC to Qatar for the first time, as the region strives to advance the next generation of digital societies. MWC25 Doha provides a powerful platform for exhibitions, thought leadership, startups and policymakers to collaborate and drive progress. We look forward to supporting the region's growing role in global tech innovation and investment.'
MWC25 Doha brings together innovators, policymakers and business leaders from around the world. Flagship features brought to Doha from Barcelona include 4YFN and the GSMA Ministerial Programme. The 4YFN zone is a key platform for the startup ecosystem, connecting global investors with founders to shape the future of technology innovation. The dedicated GSMA Ministerial Programme brings together regional and international policymakers to shape the future of the digital ecosystem in the MENA region. The programme will feature policy-focused sessions, closed-door meetings, and curated networking opportunities—fostering dialogue and strategic alignment between governments, industry leaders, and the global development community. It will also serve as a regional platform for continued collaboration on policies that accelerate innovation, investment, and inclusive digital growth.
MWC25 Doha is set to deliver an unmissable experience in the region. Confirmed exhibitors so far include Mannai, Cisco, and Nokia with plenty more to come. In addition, the event has so far confirmed two country pavilions featuring South Korean and Turkish companies. It has also confirmed Ooredoo as a Strategic Partner and Qatar University as the Educational Partner, a first for an MWC event.
The event agenda will explore how emerging technologies are shaping the future of economies and societies worldwide. Discussions will center around three overarching themes: AI Nexus, which focuses on the transformative power of artificial intelligence across business, governance, and everyday life; Intelligent Economies, which highlights the evolution of digital infrastructure, data sovereignty, and smart network deployment; and Connected Industries, which examines the integration of frontier technologies across sectors such as mobility, finance, energy, and logistics.
MWC25 Doha will feature a dynamic lineup of thematic tracks (summits) tackling the most pressing themes in digital transformation—from the rise of agentic AI and intelligent telecom networks to the future of fintech, smart mobility, data centers, 5G, IoT, and satellite connectivity. Each track will bring together global experts to explore cutting-edge innovations, real-world applications, and the policies shaping tomorrow's connected economy.
The event reflects Qatar's commitment to shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven digital economy in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030. By hosting this landmark event, Qatar is reinforcing its role as a global convener of technology leaders and as a regional hub for advanced connectivity, AI integration, and smart infrastructure. The event also supports national efforts to accelerate digital transformation across vital sectors—from government services and education to mobility, commerce, and energy.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
21 minutes ago
- UAE Moments
Sheikha Bodour Becomes University of Leicester's 1st Honorary Professor
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), was formally conferred the title of Honorary Professor by the University of Leicester, a distinction given for the first time in the university's history. The ceremony took place at the School of Business's Brookfield Campus and was led by Professor Henrietta O'Connor and Professor Dan Ladley. This prestigious recognition honours her exceptional contributions to women's empowerment, child literacy, and cultural development on a regional and international scale. Connecting Cross-Cultural Academia and Creativity During her visit, Sheikha Bodour engaged with faculty and students and took part in a discussion on museum studies and research within the cultural sector—underscoring her commitment to international academic collaboration and cultural understanding. Championing Literacy, Inclusion, and Publishing Innovation As the founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, Sheikha Bodour has overseen the publication of over 500 socially conscious Arabic children's books across 15+ countries. Her Kalimat Foundation has delivered inclusive literacy programs in 31 nations. She played a pivotal role in the UAE's accession to the Marrakesh Treaty, which ensures accessible books for persons with print disabilities. She also established the Emirates Publishers Association, the UAE Board on Books for Young People, and made history in 2020 by becoming the first Arab woman to serve as President of the International Publishers Association since its founding in 1896. Empowering Women and Strengthening Educational Equity Reflecting on the honour, Sheikha Bodour said, 'This recognition from the University of Leicester is deeply meaningful… education is one of the most powerful ways to build cultural bridges.' She expressed her hope that the award inspires young women to 'lead with purpose' and claim their ideas and space confidently. Professor Dan Ladley described her as 'inclusive, inspiring and impactful,' praising her unwavering dedication to equality, leadership, and transformation across education and publishing. A Trailblazer's Broader Legacy Under Sheikha Bodour's leadership at AUS, new initiatives include six research centres spanning artificial intelligence, sustainability, and Islamic studies, as well as scholarship expansions for underrepresented students. She spearheaded the establishment of the first endowed academic chair for women's leadership in the UAE— the Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi Chair in Women's Leadership in partnership with NAMA Women Advancement Establishment. Her influence continues beyond academia: she drives cultural innovation through Sharjah Publishing City, UNESCO initiatives, and global platforms including WEF and UNESCO World Book Capital Networks. The University of Leicester's conferment of its first-ever Honorary Professorship on Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi is a historic tribute to her leadership in education, literacy, and cultural diplomacy. Her appointment symbolizes the university's values of inclusivity, global engagement, and academic excellence—and heralds a new era of cross-border collaboration and inspiration.
Khaleej Times
21 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
OKX marks UAE growth milestone with launch of regulated retail derivatives pilot offering
OKX, a leading global crypto exchange and Web3 technology company, on Monday announced a significant expansion of its operations in the UAE with the launch of regulated retail derivatives products, making it the first global exchange to offer retail futures, perpetual contracts, and options within a regulated Vara Pilot Framework. The launch comes as OKX continues to see strong momentum in the UAE. The newly introduced regulated crypto retail derivatives offering provides customers with enhanced flexibility and a broader range of trading strategies across different market conditions, marking the first time such crypto derivatives have been made accessible to retail investors in the UAE under a regulated structure. 'This represents a pivotal moment for both OKX and the UAE's broader digital asset ecosystem,' said Rifad Mahasneh, CEO, OKX Mena. 'By launching the first fully regulated retail derivatives offering in the UAE, we are both reinforcing our long-term commitment to responsible innovation and regulatory alignment, as well as listening to feedback from our customers, who have been asking for this type of offering in the UAE. The UAE has emerged as a global model for how thoughtful regulation can unlock access while prioritizing investor protection.' Whether navigating volatility or seeking to hedge existing positions, customers can now access futures contracts, perpetual contracts, and options with up to 5x leverage, in accordance with local regulatory guidelines. These tools empower retail traders to respond more effectively to market trends, manage risk with greater precision, and tailor their strategies to both bullish and bearish environments, all within a secure, compliant, and high-performance trading environment. OKX's expansion highlights the UAE's growing reputation as one of the most forward-looking jurisdictions for digital asset regulation. With Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as regional crypto hubs, the country continues to attract global players thanks to its regulatory clarity, supportive infrastructure, and emphasis on innovation. Since establishing its presence in the UAE, OKX has actively collaborated with the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority [VARA] and other stakeholders to shape frameworks that support innovation while upholding market integrity and transparency. 'Good regulation is not a constraint, it is an imperative within our industry,' added Mahasneh. 'The UAE has created an environment where innovation and compliance go hand in hand. This has enabled OKX to introduce sophisticated products like derivatives to retail users in a responsible and secure manner.' As part of its broader regional strategy, OKX has invested in local hiring, Arabic-language customer support, educational initiatives, and partnerships with Web3 startups and institutions. The derivatives offering will be accompanied by user education tools and risk management features to promote informed, responsible trading. The launch builds on the company's rapid growth in the region following its receipt of a Virtual Asset Service Provider [VASP] license from VARA in 2024. OKX continues to prioritize security, accessibility, and compliance as it expands its role in shaping the Middle East's evolving digital asset landscape.
The National
an hour ago
- The National
Abu Dhabi sets out Dh764m investment plan to boost tourism in Oman's Salalah
Abu Dhabi has set out a Dh764.5 million ($208 million) investment strategy to boost tourism in Salalah, Oman, with plans for a sprawling luxury resort and a marina and beachfront revamp that will help generate hundreds of jobs. The major development – set across a 2.5 million square metre area in Jinawf – aims to bolster Oman's rising status as a tourism hub in the region and globally. Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) took part in a ground-breaking ceremony for the Integrated Tourism complex project in Salalah on Monday, along with Omani authorities. The first phase, covering 604,000 square metres, will feature a high-end resort with more than 120 rooms and chalets, as well as the development of the marina and the regeneration of coastal and beachfront areas. The significant funding injection from ADFD will also support essential infrastructure works, including roads and public utilities. "This project is a testament to the deep-rooted strategic ties between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman," said Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, director general of ADFD. "It reaffirms ADFD's ongoing commitment to supporting the development strategies of partner nations through investments that enable economic growth and generate a positive, sustainable impact for local communities. "The project also reflects our vision of economic diversification and our proactive approach to advancing sustainable development through meaningful regional partnerships and shared prosperity." Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Oman, said the scheme was expected to create hundreds of job opportunities while stimulating growth across key economic sectors. The project is central to Oman Vision 2040, which positions tourism as a key driver of economic diversification. Salalah is already a popular tourist destination, particularly for travellers within the Gulf. Holidaymakers visit the city in large numbers during the Khareef season – typically from June to September – when monsoon rains turn the desert landscape into a vibrant sea of lush greenery, leading to cooler temperatures. Last year there were 15 million domestic tourists and four million internationally, exceeding previous record levels of 2019. The UAE, India, Germany and other western European countries were the main tourist source markets for the sultanate. The UAE and Oman last year established investment partnerships worth Dh129 billion across several sectors including renewable energy, railway, green metals and technology. The collaborations were announced following the state visit of Oman's Sultan Haitham to the UAE in April last year. The two countries will set up an industrial and energy mega project valued at Dh117 billion, with solar and wind projects, and green metal production units.
