Qatar Participates in Web Summit Lisbon 2023

12 November 2023

In line with its efforts to promote and bolster the technology sector through vital investments aimed at diversifying the economy, as outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), Qatar is participating in Web Summit Lisbon 2023 scheduled for 13-16 November.

The event is regarded as the largest annual technology conference globally, bringing together tech-related entrepreneurs, investors, startups and experts. The summit’s activities include showcasing the latest trends in technology and innovation while offering networking and collaboration opportunities among global attendees.

The State of Qatar’s participation comes in preparation of hosting the event in Doha — as a first in the region — over the next five years, with the first edition being held 26-29 February 2024. The Qatari delegation in Lisbon also aims to highlight the country’s state-of-the-art technical infrastructure and amenities, which is well-suited for hosting major global events.

His Excellency Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office, said: “Just as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 was a tournament for all Arabs, we are keen to make Qatar’s hosting of the Web Summit an opportunity for the youth in the Arab world to showcase their initiatives, abilities and talents on a global stage; and to benefit from and interact with this remarkable global forum.” He then stressed that “hosting this event is an investment in talents, minds, developing technology, and the future; and it is a winning bet on Qatar and its youth.”

Qatar’s pavilions at Web Summit Lisbon — projected to attract more than 70,000 participants from more than 160 countries — will shed light on the State’s advanced level in the latest technological developments and the attractive investment prospects. Additionally, they will offer a preview of what awaits visitors at Web Summit Qatar 2024.

Qatar, which continues to provide an ideal business environment for foreign investors and offers several competitive advantages, ranks first in the Arab world in entrepreneurship according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and has recorded the region’s highest gross domestic product (GDP) growth. Furthermore, Qatar stands at the forefront in the Arab world and ranks fourth globally in GDP per capita.

Being selected as the next destination to host a Web Summit event in Doha is a reflection of Qatar’s success in organising flagship global events in recent years. In 2022, Doha witnessed one of the best editions of the FIFA World Cup, drawing over 1,400,000 visitors. Furthermore, Qatar is set to host a series of first-in-the-region events in both the near and distant future.