• The inaugural Web Summit Qatar 2024 drew a significant turnout, gathering a record number of global tech experts.
• 15,453 attendees from 118 countries attended the summit.
• 1,043 startups from 81 countries participated in the summit; 10% of them are local startups.
• HE the MCIT Minister held a panel discussion highlighted Qatar’s digital innovation plan for the next five years.
• Over 25 startups under the MCIT programs participated in the exhibition.

The inaugural edition of Web Summit Qatar 2024, the largest gathering of startup companies in the region, witnessed remarkable success reflected in the numbers and statistics of the summit. A total of 1,043 startup companies from 81 countries participated, 10% of which were from Qatar, highlighting the growing technological ecosystem in the country. The summit facilitated the signing of 24 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between investors, startups, and global technology companies.

The summit drew significant media attention, with nearly 900 media representatives from across the globe present, highlighting the event's significance and the keen interest of international media outlets. The summit attracted widespread investor participation, with statistics indicating that 401 investors showed interest in the investment opportunities presented by the region.

 Distinguished speakers were a notable feature of the summit, with 380 speakers from various fields enriching discussions and fostering the exchange of experiences and ideas. Additionally, this edition was distinguished by a notable presence of startups from the MENA region, comprising half of the participating startups, emphasizing the region's growing role in entrepreneurship.

In a related context, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology played a key role during the Web Summit Qatar 2024. Serving as a significant partner in the summit, which took place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center from February 26 to 29, the Ministry actively contributed through various initiatives.

One such initiative was MCIT's participation in Qatar Startup Pavilion, where it showcased the support provided via its programs, the Digital Incubation Center (DIC) and TASMU Accelerator to startups through access to tools, mentoring, and funding. MCIT presented the array of benefits awaiting start-ups that join these programs. Over 25 startups under the MCIT programs participated in the exhibition, 19 of which were supported and sponsored by MCIT.

MCIT also delivered three masterclasses on Generative AI, Digital Transformation, and Digital Inclusion at the Web Summit, in collaboration with strategic stakeholders such as UNESCO, Microsoft, and Cisco. These masterclasses are intended to provide the audience with invaluable insights on leveraging technology for transformative change.

On this occasion, HE Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology stated: " As we are concluding the inaugural edition of Web Summit Qatar 2024 today, Qatar's commitment to hosting it for the next five years offers the Arab region an exclusive opportunity to engage in global technology discussions and foster active innovation. Our strategic collaborations with partners and the Qatar Digital Agenda 2030 launch will serve as our digital transformation roadmap, positioning Qatar as a leading technology and investment hub in the region."

HE the Minster added: "The record-breaking participation, insightful discussions, and collaborative spirit solidify our commitment to fostering a vibrant tech ecosystem and propelling Qatar towards a thriving digital future. This aligns perfectly with our national vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, driving us towards a thriving and diverse technological future."

HE the Minister led a panel discussion, on the closing day, under the title of “Qatar’s Plan for the Digital Future”.  It explored the key developments in the ICT sector and outlined Qatar’s digital innovation plan for the next five years. Stressing the significance of the Digital Agenda 2030, HE highlighted its role in fostering a knowledge-based digital economy and driving digital transformation across industries. Moreover, HE emphasized the priority of green and clean technology and discussed the importance of leveraging AI, cloud computing, and big data for enhanced operational efficiency across sectors.

HE the MCIT Minister also held a press conference after the panel discussion, in which HE discussed the significance of Qatar Web Summit 2024 for the digital landscape in Qatar and how it aligns with the goals of the Digital Agenda 2030, emphasizing the event's role in driving technological innovation and development in the country. The conference also highlighted notable achievements, including the significant global interest received by the Web Summit Qatar 2024, which drew 15,453 participants from 118 countries.