Web Summit Qatar organises kick-off event for the second edition

Web Summit, in collaboration with the Government Communications Office and Qatar Development Bank, organised the Runway to Web Summit Qatar kick-off event for the second edition of the summit, set to be held in Doha from 23 to 26 February.

Hosted at M7 in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the event featured panel discussions with Paddy Cosgrave, founder and CEO of Web Summit, Abdulrahman Hesham Al-Sowaidi, CEO of Qatar Development Bank and participants from Qatar-based startups. Discussions highlighted the startups’ participation in the first edition of the summit.

Speakers at the event also highlighted the progress in preparations for Web Summit Qatar 2025, along with discussions on the future of technology and the vital role startups play in shaping Qatar’s economic future.

Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organising Committee, stated that the success of the first Web Summit Qatar held earlier this year showcased the potential of Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

He stated: “The success of Web Summit Qatar 2024 highlights Qatar’s role as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, showcasing exceptional talent and opportunities across the Middle East, Asia and Africa,” said Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organising Committee.

Paddy Cosgrave, founder and CEO of Web Summit, anticipated a larger turnout for the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, remarking: “I think it speaks to the attractiveness of Doha as first and foremost, somewhere to host international events, which the country has been doing exceptionally for several years.”

Abdulrahman Hesham Al-Sowaidi, CEO of Qatar Development Bank, commented: “Web Summit Qatar represents a powerful testament to Qatar’s emergence as a global innovation hub. When thousands of startups from around the globe converge here and express interest in our ecosystem, it signals something truly transformative. We’ve successfully created an environment where innovation thrives, where government support meets entrepreneurial spirit and where great ideas find the resources to become global solutions. Qatar today stands as a launchpad for innovation, connecting visionary entrepreneurs with unprecedented opportunities. Through platforms like Web Summit, we’re actively shaping the future of global innovation and establishing Qatar as the natural home for transformative ideas in the region and beyond.”

He further explained that this shift is part of a comprehensive strategy focusing on innovation and positioning Qatar as a destination for new ideas. He also noted that Qatar Development Bank’s current strategy supports Qatar-based companies, regardless of ownership, ensuring an inclusive and diverse business environment.

Web Summit’s five-year run in Qatar highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to establish itself as a leader in entrepreneurship, innovation and the tech sector. The summit is a vital catalyst for attracting foreign investment, boosting the tourism industry and enhancing the business environment, all of which support Qatar’s broader goals for economic diversification as part of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

The first edition of Web Summit Qatar, held earlier this year, achieved significant milestones, including a record number of startups participating in the inaugural event, with remarkable attendance from African startups.