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Cut off from the global Internet for more than two weeks, online content creator Amir spends his days scanning the few news websites available on Iran's domestic web for signs that connectivity to the world might return.Amir, 32, has been unable to produce his reviews of video games and movies since January 8, when authorities imposed an unprecedented communications blackout amid mass anti-government protests that authorities acknowledge left more than 3,000 dead.The prolonged shutdown has impacted key sectors of the economy from travel to exports, according to Iranians in Tehran who spoke to AFP, while costing the country millions of dollars each day."My work entirely depends on the Internet... I really cannot see myself surviving without it," said Amir, who works with social media platforms including Instagram and YouTube.He said the restrictions had left him demotivated and increasingly concerned about his income and future.Nationwide rallies against the rising cost of living erupted in Tehran on December 28, beginning as peaceful demonstrations before turning into what officials describe as "foreign-instigated riots" that included killings and vandalism.An official death toll from the unrest stands at 3,117, but international NGOs have provided higher numbers.The protests have since subsided but remaining in place are the Internet restrictions, which Iran's foreign minister has justified as necessary to confront foreign "terrorist operations". Rights groups, however, say the shutdown was imposed to mask a government crackdown on protesters.Millions of Iranians have been left reliant on the country's intranet, which supports a wide range of domestic apps while keeping users isolated from the outside world.Buses, subway systems, online payment and banking platforms, as well as ride-hailing, navigation and food delivery services, are all functioning on the intranet, along with local news websites.Last weekend local media reported that domestic messaging apps including Bale, Eitaa and Rubika would also become functional again.But Amir said that he had "never used these apps and I will not start now", citing privacy concerns.FLIGHT DISRUPTIONSSocial media sites such as Instagram have served as a key marketplace for Iranian entrepreneurs, but the impact on the economy from the internet restrictions extends far wider.On Sunday, local media quoted Iran's deputy telecommunications minister Ehsan Chitsaz as saying the shutdown is estimated to have cost between four and 6tn rials per day — around $3 to $4mn.Internet monitoring group NetBlocks has provided a much higher estimate, saying each day costs Iran more than $37mn.A travel agent, who declined to be named for security concerns, told AFP that booking international flights has been "unstable". Some flights had been cancelled and passengers only informed upon arrival at airports, she said."Business has been affected, with the number of customers calling me daily to book flights dropping," she added, noting that "domestic flights remain easier to arrange".Iraj, a 51-year-old truck driver in western Iran who transports goods across the country's borders, said administrative procedures for loading and unloading export cargo have slowed."Drivers have been required to wait hours to complete paperwork," he added.Curbs on the Internet have been imposed during previous bouts of unrest in Iran though have generally been shorter and more limited in scope.Disruptions took place as far back as 2009 during nationwide demonstrations against the re-election of then president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.Restrictions were also in place during protests sparked by rising fuel prices in 2019, rallies in 2022-2023 after the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, and during the 12-day war with Israel in June last year.Amin, another content creator who reviews tech devices in videos posted to YouTube and Instagram, said he had anticipated restrictions this time but did not expect the shutdown to be so long or so stringent."We used to complain that working under these conditions was difficult, but now it's affecting every aspect of our livelihoods," the 29-year-old said.It remains unclear how long the blackout will last. In recent days patchy access to some foreign websites and email services such as Google has been available, but has been highly unreliable."The only optimistic thing I can say... is that I don't see them keeping the Internet shut completely for a long time," Amin said."Otherwise, it will backfire." 

The third Government Communications Forum in Doha has placed a spotlight on the expanding role of women in leading the communications sector, their influence in shaping narratives, engaging audiences, and redefining flexible and inclusive leadership.During a panel discussion, participants shared insights and examples from various sectors, exploring how female leaders are driving tangible change, shaping institutional strategies, and guiding the future of communication.Head of the Government Communications Office’s Semi-Governmental Entities Department, Maryam Mohammed al-Mannai, highlighted Qatar's progress in supporting women, particularly in leadership roles, and attributed this to the sustained support of the country's top leadership and institutional authorities.She noted a significant shift in women's participation in government and semi-government entities in recent years and emphasised the need for practical initiatives – such as advanced human resources (HR) policies and a stimulating work environment-to continue promoting gender balance and empowerment.Al-Mannai added that empowering female leaders requires focused training and capacity-building to enhance leadership skills and prepare women for senior roles, while showcasing success stories as inspiring models across sectors.She emphasised that the Government Communications Office actively highlights women's achievements in fields such as health, sports, and strategic communication, and noted that Qatari women have proven their competence across all sectors.Senior Visit Qatar media and communications manager Dr Buthaina al-Janahi stressed that crafting Qatar's national narrative demands deep intellectual and cultural understanding.She noted that effective storytelling goes beyond merely presenting information, highlighting instead the stories, memories, and values that shape public perception of Qatar.Dr al-Janahi emphasised that national narratives are key to building and refining institutional identities, particularly when communicating with priority local and international stakeholders, and that delivering messages effectively requires diverse tools and methods to suit the target audience.She also highlighted the rapidly evolving communications landscape, marked by high intellectual competition and digital transformation, urging practitioners to adopt innovative approaches and remain flexible in responding to new trends, rather than relying solely on traditional media.Anne Sobel, a writer and creative professional at the US-based streaming platform Netflix, shared her experience in media and entertainment, stressing the importance of maintaining a unique perspective."Success comes from believing in yourself and your personal experiences," she said, noting that an individual's viewpoint stems from a combination of values, beliefs, passions, interests, and life experiences.Sobel added that women's life experiences provide a distinct perspective that can enrich creative content, encouraging them to leverage their personal journeys as a source of inspiration and innovation.The forum underscored the growing impact of women in shaping communication strategies, influencing public engagement, and leading the sector toward more inclusive, innovative, and culturally resonant approaches.  

Gulf Publishing and Printing Company, publisher of Arrayah and Gulf Times, has announced the appointment of Nasser Ali as Head of Public Relations and Communications as part of its strategic plan to enhance the corporate communications system and to develop the company’s media and community presence. This appointment comes in recognition of Nasser Ali’s extensive professional experience and high level of competence in the field of public relations.In the meantime, he is expected to play an active role in supporting the company’s image, strengthening its relationships with various stakeholders, and consolidating communication channels with the public and the means of media. Accordingly, the executive management of the company has expressed its confidence that this step will contribute to achieving greater institutional excellence, wishing him every success in his new role. 

His Excellency Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai said the first edition of MWC25 Doha reflected the importance of the role that the region can play in shaping the future of communications and information technology by hosting this level of global expertise and companies in Doha.In a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency explained that the conference demonstrated the ability of the region’s economies to employ fifth-generation and beyond technologies, artificial intelligence, and smart digital solutions in practical applications that support growth and open up broad horizons for innovation and growth.The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology affirmed its keenness to continue its partnership with GSMA, and to build on what has been achieved during this edition to launch new joint initiatives and enhance the region’s presence in the global innovation system, and to support aspirations for a more advanced and sustainable digital future, HE Minister said.MWC25 Doha, held under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and organized by the GSMA Association in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, concluded its work yesterday after two days that witnessed a great surge in the level of participation and attendance.Approximately 9,500 participants from more than 110 countries, including a notable percentage of executive leaders who constituted 20% of the total attendance, along with 41% of managers and decision-makers at the advanced sector level, attended the conference.MWC25 Doha also saw significant presence from sectors related to communications and information technology, as their representatives constituted about 61% of the total participants, reflecting the growing international and regional interest in the region’s role in the future of global communication. Director General of the GSMA Vivek Badrinath said that Launching MWC in Doha at this pivotal moment gives the region a platform to show the scale of its digital ambition.The State of Qatar’s pavilion was one of the most prominent stops at the conference, showcasing 32 innovative digital projects presented by 17 government entities, reflecting the level of progress in digital transformation and smart services in the country.Over two days, the pavilion witnessed a significant influx of ministerial delegations, policymakers, and international experts who explored national projects in smart cities, automated government services, digital identity, and artificial intelligence-based technologies. The pavilion also facilitated direct interaction between government entities and visitors, and provided a platform for meetings with global companies to foster collaboration opportunities.The agenda included a wide range of panel discussions and dialogues in which nearly 300 international speakers and experts participated, discussing the latest developments in 5G networks, cloud technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, smart digital infrastructure, and strategies for developing digital skills for individuals and institutions.The GSMA Ministerial Programme was one of the conference's main themes, attracting 60 official delegations from 49 countries and more than 10 international organizations, who discussed spectrum policies, digital infrastructure, digital inclusion and accelerating digital transformation through solutions focused on regional and international governmental cooperation.The conference also witnessed the announcement of more than 30 partnerships, cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding between government agencies, companies and technology entities, as part of efforts to enhance the innovation environment and open new paths for digital growth.MWC25 Doha also witnessed significant media presence, including more than 180 journalists and international analysts, who followed the live coverage of the events and monitored the technical trends that were raised during the discussions, reflecting the growing global interest in the digital transformations taking place in the region.The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology stated that with the conclusion of the inaugural edition of MWC25 Doha, the State of Qatar is preparing to host the next four editions of the conference, reflecting the growing international confidence in the country's ability to promote the digital transformation agenda in the region.Over the coming years, the conference will continue to solidify Doha’s position as a platform that brings together policymakers, industry leaders and global companies, and supports the advancement of innovation and advanced technologies in the Middle East and North Africa.

His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani inaugurated Tuesday the MWC25 Doha conference, which is being organised by the GSMA Association in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa region, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center.The opening ceremony was attended by several Sheikhs and Ministers, along with GSMA officials, and leaders in communications and information technology in the region and the world.Following the opening, His Excellency the Prime Minister toured the accompanying exhibition, which included leading global, regional, and local companies, and discussed the latest innovations in the fields of communication, 5G and beyond networks, artificial intelligence, advanced computing, smart cities, data solutions, and financial technologies.His Excellency the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali al-Mannai affirmed that holding MWC25 Doha in Qatar highlights the prominent position of the Middle East and North Africa region in shaping the next generation of communication technologies.In his remarks during the official opening ceremony of the conference at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, he said that hosting this event reflects the region’s growing ability to adapt to global developments and demonstrates its readiness to transition toward smarter and more efficient digital infrastructures that support development and drive innovation at regional and international levels.His Excellency said that digital transformation in the Middle East and North Africa is currently undergoing a precise maturation phase, evidenced by the region’s 427mn mobile service subscribers, a digital base that reflects broad growth potential.His Excellency al-Mannai noted, however, that part of the population in the Middle East and North Africa still remains outside full connectivity, which makes the enhancement of digital inclusion not only a shared objective for the coming years but also an opportunity to achieve something beyond that.HE the Minister of Communications and Information Technology said that the telecommunications industry in the region is advancing toward building knowledge-based infrastructure, or cognitive infrastructure. His Excellency noted that connectivity alone is no longer sufficient, as intelligence has become an essential component of modern network systems.He pointed out that as user needs evolve, the industry is adopting artificial intelligence-based solutions to enhance network efficiency and improve adaptability. His Excellency added that the region is moving toward developing networks capable of automatically optimizing their performance, while also transforming the role of operators into providers of insight and expertise, rather than merely suppliers of services and bandwidth.HE the Minister also highlighted the rapid advancement of telecommunications networks toward more intelligent systems that rely on data analytics and artificial intelligence to adapt swiftly to changing usage patterns.His Excellency said indicators show that GCC states possess some of the highest levels of digital readiness globally, with mobile internet speeds averaging 500 Mbps and internet usage rates ranging between 97% and 100% of the population.His Excellency emphasized that the convening of MWC Doha serves as a platform bringing together minds and expertise to exchange perspectives on artificial intelligence as a driver of change, smart economies, and connected industries, domains that align with the region’s aspirations and reinforce its role as an active partner in shaping the contours of the global digital future.

His Excellency the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Mohammed bin Ali al-Mannai, held several high-level bilateral meetings with ministers, industry leaders, and accompanying delegations participating in the inaugural edition of MWC25 Doha which is being held for the first time in the Mena region, organised by GSMA in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.The meetings and discussions focused on enhancing co-operation in various fields, including developing technological innovation, fostering digital skills, and accelerating national digital transformation efforts. The meetings also explored potential joint initiatives to drive the digital economy forward and equip talent with the capabilities needed for the future.In this regard, HE the Minister of Communications met with Lebanese Minister of the Displaced Kamal Shehadeh. They discussed areas of co-operation.He also met with the senior leadership of VEON Group, including CEO Kaan Terzioglu. They explored opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation and future technologies.HE al-Mannai met with Director General of the Arab ICT Organisation (AICTO), Eng. Mohammed Ben Amor, and several AICTO officials. They discuss joint efforts to support regional digital progress. 

Doha's hosting of the MWC25 conference marks a major milestone for the mobile communications sector and reflects Qatar's advanced position on the global technology landscape, said Jawad Abbasi, head of Middle East and North Africa at the GSMA.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) ahead of MWC Doha 2025, scheduled to take place on November 25-26, Abbasi noted that the MWC is the world's leading platform for interaction among all stakeholders in the communications ecosystem, including the private sector, governments, and international institutions. He emphasised that the event plays a critical role in strengthening the sustainability of the communications sector, which he described as the cornerstone of the digital economy and modern economic development.Abbasi added that the GSMA, which organises the event, serves as the global umbrella for mobile network operators as well as technology providers and companies operating in this vital sector. He explained that mobile communications have become the primary channel of digital connectivity for billions of people worldwide, with mobile phones now serving as the main gateway to the internet for a significant portion of the global population. This reality, he noted, places on the Association a substantial responsibility to help bridge gaps in coverage and usage, ensuring comprehensive and equitable access to digital services for all communities.Abbasi stressed that Doha was chosen to host MWC25 — after being held in several major global cities — based on a number of strategic considerations. Foremost among these is Qatar's leadership in adopting advanced technologies, including 5G, fibre-optic networks, and next-generation digital solutions, as well as the country's exceptionally high access rates to these technologies. He added that Qatari telecommunications operators rely on cutting-edge digital systems that position Qatar at the forefront of innovation in the region.He highlighted that Qatar's advanced infrastructure — particularly its transport sector, including Hamad International Airport, an integrated metro network, and world-class conference facilities — combined with global connectivity through Qatar Airways, makes Doha an ideal destination for hosting major international conferences. Abbasi also revealed that MWC25 is expected to continue being held in Doha for years to come.He further emphasised the strategic importance of hosting MWC25 in the region, noting that global economic shifts increasingly point to the economic centre of gravity moving eastward. This gives the Gulf region — and Doha in particular — a unique advantage, making it an ideal global hub for major international events.He added that this dynamic reinforces Qatar's position as a regional centre of gravity for the digital economy and global technology conferences, which explains the GSMA's growing number of events in the region, including the M360 Mena conference, culminating in the establishment of MWC Doha as a permanent annual event.Abbasi said that MWC25 Doha will feature a diverse program, including a high-level ministerial agenda with the participation of governments, policymakers, and international organisations. This agenda will discuss optimal regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable investment in telecommunications networks and support the sector’s long-term growth.He noted that the conference will focus on several key themes, including artificial intelligence and its applications across economic sectors, the deployment of 5G in industry, transportation, ports, and aviation, maximising the economic and social returns of digital investments, and exploring the future of 6G technologies.The conference will bring together around 300 exhibiting companies from around the world, offering an ideal platform for exchanging expertise and showcasing the latest technological innovations. Abbasi said the strong participation of global companies and institutions reflects rising international confidence in Doha's capabilities and its growing influence in the global technology landscape.He revealed that several agreements and memoranda of understanding will be signed during the conference, including a strategic agreement between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the GSMA to establish a training centre for modern technologies in cooperation with GSMA Advanced. The centre aims to enhance knowledge transfer and capacity building in the Arab world and the Gulf region — an initiative described as a significant step toward supporting sustainable digital development.Regarding the expected timeline for 6G services, Abbasi said the technology remains in the research and development phase and is anticipated to be available to the general public between 2031 and 2032. He stressed that the current priority is to maximise the benefits of existing 5G technologies to ensure meaningful economic and social development outcomes. 

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), in collaboration with Center for Empowerment and Care of the Elderly (Ehsan), held an awareness workshop to empower consumers to protect their personal data and promote safe use of mobile phones, as part of the National Initiative to Celebrate 160 Years of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).The workshop comes as a part of CRA’s ongoing series of initiatives launched to raise awareness about the safe and responsible use of digital technologies to reinforce confidence in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in Qatar, in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030 that aspires to create an informed and secure digital community.CRA experts conducted interactive sessions that demonstrated how users can manage privacy settings on their mobile phones, identify potentially unsafe applications, and control data access permissions effectively.The workshop also featured practical discussions on enhancing privacy on messaging and social media platforms such as WhatsApp, with participants learning how to adopt safe digital habits that reduce exposure to online risks.On this occasion, Director of the Consumer Affairs Department at CRA Amel Salem al-Hanawi stated: “Enhancing awareness is the cornerstone of digital protection. Through this workshop, we aimed to empower elderly people to take control of their digital privacy and make informed decisions about their data. We remain committed to engaging directly with the community and translating our consumer protection mandate into tangible action that builds trust and strengthens digital resilience.”Acting Director of Social Awareness and Community Outreach Department at Ehsan Center Shaikha Ahmed al-Horaib stated: “The collaboration between the Center for Empowerment and Elderly Care, Ehsan, and the Communications Regulatory Authority comes as part of our ongoing efforts to promote safe digital literacy among the elderly and to empower them to use modern technologies with confidence and security”.She added: “This partnership reflects the Center’s commitment to supporting the elderly in keeping pace with digital transformation, enhancing their ability to protect their personal data and private information, and enabling them to interact with technology in a conscious way that contributes to their digital safety and quality of life.”

Scale Now, which enables Qatari founded technology companies to become global competitors, has secured deals valued at $12.9mn, positioning Qatar as a regional hub for digital innovation, according to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT).Of the $12.9mn in deals secured, as much as $7.2mn was in B2B (business-to-business) and $5.7mn in direct investments, said a MCIT presentation made recently after roping in four more partners – Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Invest Qatar, QDB (Qatar Development Bank) and Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council - for the programme."Scale Now is more than a programme; it is a coordinated national platform turning digital innovation into tangible economic impact," MCIT said.About $7.2mn in B2B (business to business) transactions; the presentation said it demonstrated strong market validation and confidence in Qatar’s scale-up ecosystem.The Cycle 1 had secured $5.7mn in direct investments through a mix of private funding, grants, and investor partnerships.The participating entities from Cycle 1 reported sustained growth, validating the effectiveness of the programme’s capability-building and market access model, it said, highlighting more than 50% average revenue growth and one successful international market expansion in Cycle 1.The Cycle 1 brought together six market-ready companies delivering solutions from digital payments and marketplaces to airport operations and immersive media.It saw Mzad Qatar, providing a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform that connects buyers and sellers; SkipCash, enabling businesses to implement secure online payment solutions through a streamlined digital platform; and EMMA Systems, delivering airport software that improves operational efficiency and data management.The Cycle 1 also saw ADGS, offering behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance powered by proprietary AI models; SPONIX, providing immersive video solutions and virtual advertising that enable engaging real-time content during live events; and ClassTap, offering flexible access to more than 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription platform.Scale Now contributes directly to Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030's national employment target by equipping founders and creating high-value digital roles across tech sectors, aiming more than 26,000 ICT (information, communication and technology) jobs by 2030."Through its collaborative model, Scale Now is enabling Qatari-founded technology companies to become global competitors, strengthening the nation’s economic resilience, export potential, and job creation capacity," it said.By providing tailored mentorship, strategic partnerships, investment readiness and facilitating access to pilot opportunities, the programme helps high-potential companies transform proven traction into sustainable growth. It strengthens Qatar’s digital economy, aligns with the Digital Agenda 2030 and positions the country as a global hub for innovation and expansion."We will refer high-potential companies from Startup Qatar to future Scale Now cohorts, support access to funding and grants, and help shape a connected, resilient ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive," Invest Qatar had said.Invest Qatar serves as the gateway for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, guiding them through each stage of their business journey — from exploration to expansion — by providing comprehensive insights, market knowledge and facilitating connections with key government and private sector stakeholders.

The second cycle of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology's (MCIT) Scale Now – a growth programme designed to equip Qatar’s digital entrepreneurs achieve success on local, regional, and global levels and featuring as many as 13 high-potential firms from Qatar and beyond – is scheduled to conclude on November 15, 2025.The Cycle 2 – currently in the capacity building phase, with pilot and expansion plans in progress – has entities driving innovation across AI (artificial intelligence), Healthtech, EdTech, Gaming, Cybersecurity, ERP (enterprise resource planning), Retail, and Sustainability; said MCIT in a presentation made recently.The Cycle 2 has two AI companies Bilby, which provides AI-driven data analytics that evaluate public statements to predict future behaviour; and Khadoom, an on-demand AI-powered personal assistant platform that helps users outsource daily errands through messaging apps.It saw SEK Games, a Turkish game development studio specialising in free-to-play mobile games in the idle, arcade, and simulation genres; Adeer, offering a business management app that simplifies sales, inventory, finance, and tax operations for small and micro businesses; and ENABLE, providing an AI-driven retail platform that boosts revenue through customer loyalty and operational optimisation.On Cybersecurity, Cytomate delivers automated threat assessment and cyber defence solutions that reduce human error and enhance protection.The Cycle 2 has two Edtech firms as Ynmo, which offers a bilingual AI-powered platform that helps educators create personalised learning plans for children with disabilities; and Kamkalima, which develops Arabic literacy through interactive learning tools, AI features, and a comprehensive digital content library.The Cycle 2 has four Healthtech firms as Rhazes, providing a generative AI clinical assistant that supports doctors with real-time patient care guidance; and Dieture, offering a personalised meal subscription service that delivers customised, health-focused meals.It also had PhysioHome, connecting patients with licensed rehabilitation professionals for home-based therapy and care; and Shezlong, operating a secure mental health and psychotherapy platform for Arabic-speaking users in the Middle East and North Africa.On environment and sustainability, the Cycle 2 has Nafas, which offers AI-driven air quality management through hardware-as-a-service, helping buildings maintain healthy indoor environments efficiently.The Cycle 2 companies are currently participating in an intensive capability-building phase, combining specialised mentorship with targeted business acceleration.This phase focuses on four core areas such as Strategy, which encompasses growth mapping, market positioning, and competitive differentiation; Product (product-market fit, feature refinement, and scalability engineering); Operations (key performance indicators alignment, process efficiency, and resource optimisation), and Finance (forecasting, capital structure, and investor readiness).The programme’s capability modules turn ambition into execution, equipping founders not just to grow, but to lead sustainably."Following the capability-building stage, Cycle 2 will progress into pilot development and regional expansion planning, partnering with local enterprises and government entities to co-develop solutions, validate business models, and prepare companies for global scale," MCIT said.The Cycle 1 brought together six market-ready companies delivering solutions from digital payments and marketplaces to airport operations and immersive media.It saw Mzad Qatar, providing a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform that connects buyers and sellers; SkipCash, enabling businesses to implement secure online payment solutions through a streamlined digital platform; and EMMA Systems, delivering airport software that improves operational efficiency and data management.The Cycle 1 also saw ADGS, offering behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance powered by proprietary AI models; SPONIX, providing immersive video solutions and virtual advertising that enable engaging real-time content during live events; and ClassTap, offering flexible access to more than 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription platform.

As part of joint national efforts to attract Qatari talent to the government sector, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), in co-operation with the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CGB), concluded the first round of the 'Rapid Recruitment Campaign'.This campaign targeted candidates through the 'Kawader' platform and lasted two days. It witnessed a strong turnout from national candidates. During the campaign, a number of in-person interviews were conducted with Qatari candidates over two days, resulting in the selection of several candidates to join various departments across the ministry. The campaign also provided candidates with the opportunity to learn more about MCIT’s work environment and gain insights into the major national digital projects it oversees.The initiative aimed to facilitate the integration of qualified national professionals into MCIT by enabling direct interviews, assessing their skills and capabilities, and expediting their recruitment into a digital work environment. It further sought to expand their participation in major national projects and contribute to advancing Qatar’s digital transformation.The campaign is fully aligned with the objectives of Digital Agenda 2030, which aspires to create over 26,000 new job opportunities in the ICT sector by 2030, in addition to enhancing the skills of professionals working in the ICT field. These efforts will further strengthen the readiness of Qatar’s national workforce to support the country’s digital transformation and solidify its position as a leading nation in digital innovation and progress.

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has begun the gradual launch of the first phase of the Caller Name Presentation (CNAP) initiative, in collaboration with the telecom service providers Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar, and in co-ordination with the relevant national authorities. The initiative aims to protect consumers, enhance their trust in telecom services, and reduce fraudulent calls.Under this initiative, the two service providers will implement the CNAP for all fixed and mobile voice calls made by legal entities within the country to local mobile numbers belonging to consumers. This includes calls from ministries and government entities, private companies, non-profit organisations, educational and healthcare institutions, associations, as well as banks and financial institutions.This service is part of a comprehensive national initiative developed by CRA in co-ordination with Ooredoo Qatar, Vodafone Qatar, and relevant authorities across various local sectors. The initiative aims to enhance trust in phone calls and reduce fraudulent attempts targeting users through the impersonation of legal entities.The new service enables call recipients to identify the official, verified name of the calling entity before answering, allowing them to distinguish immediately between trusted and suspicious calls.This initiative was launched to protect users from fraudulent calls, which often involve impersonation of legal entities to obtain sensitive personal or financial information. The CNAP service allows users to view the official registered name of the calling entity alongside the phone number in real-time, helping them make an informed decision on whether to accept or reject the call.In this context, Engineer Ahmad bin Abdulla AlMuslemani, President of CRA, said: “Mandating the telecom Service Providers to implement the CNAP service establishes the foundations for safe and trusted communication in the State of Qatar.CRA will continue working with relevant stakeholders to develop innovative digital solutions that contribute to building a more secure telecommunications environment.” He added: “This initiative is part of the CRA’s strategy to enhance trust and protect consumers, reflecting its commitment to a proactive regulatory approach that serves the public interest and strengthens Qatar’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) ecosystem, in support of the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”Further commenting on this collaboration, Sheikh Ali bin Jabor bin Mohammad al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer of Ooredoo Qatar, said: “We are pleased to be part of this joint initiative, which enables us to support the national efforts to develop the telecommunications sector in the country.At Ooredoo Qatar, we adopt the latest technological solutions that place our customers’ interests at the forefront of our priorities, and this initiative stands as a core pillar of what we believe in and work to achieve.”Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim al-Thani, Chief Executive Officer at Vodafone Qatar, commented: “In line with the Qatar National Vision 2030, Vodafone Qatar remains committed to supporting the digital transformation of the country. The implementation of CNAP reflects our dedication to customer safety, secure and reliable communication, and compliance with regulatory requirements.” The first phase will activate the service for all local fixed lines numbers of legal entities, while the second phase will extend it to all local mobile numbers belonging to these entities. Entities will be automatically enrolled, with an option to opt out, subject to certain conditions, during the second phase for mobile numbers that are not used for public-facing communications.The service will not be implemented on international calls and calls received by consumers while using international roaming service. It also will not be implemented on outgoing calls from residential landlines and personal mobile numbers.