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 February 23 to 26.
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.
HE 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 said that 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, He also added that building on this momentum, the 2025 edition will foster deeper partnerships, empower more startups and drive greater progress in the tech and innovation sectors.
Paddy Cosgrave, founder and CEO of Web Summit, anticipated a larger turnout for the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, remarking that this growth speaks of the attractiveness of Doha as first and foremost, a place to host international events, which the country has been doing exceptionally for several years.
He also pointed out that the event is a gateway to the region and to a market beyond that of billions of people, and that they are both very lucky and excited to witness the success of such a global event in Qatar that has surpassed expectations.
Abdulrahman Hesham al-Sowaidi, CEO of Qatar Development Bank, noted that the Web Summit Qatar represents a powerful testament to Qatar’s emergence as a global innovation hub, particularly in supporting startups, and that the next edition will show real progress.
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.
The Web Summit is the world’s largest technology event, bringing together leaders from the industry, entrepreneurs, and investors. Web Summit Qatar 2025 will feature top global speakers and address key issues in technology and innovation.
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.
