Doha, Qatar: A flurry of partnerships forged by Invest Qatar—the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar—has spotlighted the nation’s commitment to bolstering its economic growth through strategic collaborations, particularly during the recently held Web Summit Qatar 2025.
First on the list is the collaboration with Naseej for Technology, a prominent player from Saudi Arabia specializing in digital transformation solutions. This partnership outlines a strategic framework for advancing human capital, enhancing digital capabilities, and fostering innovation across key sectors. Invest Qatar aims to support Naseej for Technology as it navigates the Qatari market, introducing its advanced digital solutions and contributing to Qatar’s human capital development, especially in sectors such as culture, education, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics.
According to Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, “This partnership marks a pivotal moment in our shared commitment to advancing Qatar's digital transformation agenda. By combining Naseej's expertise with Invest Qatar’s vision for sustainable growth, we are paving the way for a future-driven economy.”
Eng. Othman Alabdulkarim, Executive President of Naseej, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Together, we are laying the foundation for a smarter, more sustainable future.” Their collaboration will play a significant role not only by establishing advanced digital platforms for libraries and museums but also by enhancing operational efficiency across sectors by leveraging cutting-edge AI tools.
Invest Qatar is also making strides with its partnership alongside Startup Portugal, which aims to encourage collaboration and create new opportunities within the startup ecosystems of both counties. This agreement facilitates mutual referrals for startups interested in entering each other's markets. “We are unlocking potential,” said Sheikh Alwaleed Al-Thani, emphasizing the nurturing of entrepreneurial growth through tailor-made support for startups aiming for international expansion. António Dias Martins, Executive Director of Startup Portugal, reciprocated the excitement, noting the importance of fostering collaboration and market access to scale businesses globally.
Portugal, known for its thriving startup environment—from approximately 5,000 startups creating over 26,000 jobs—has invested significantly across various sectors like renewable energy and real estate, strengthening ties with Qatar. The collaborative efforts of Invest Qatar and Startup Portugal together reflect ambitions to increase bilateral trade and support businesses adapting to the digital age.
Lastly, the partnership with the Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan adds another layer to Qatar’s growing international ties. Signed during the Web Summit, this Memorandum of Understanding aims to accelerate digital transformation initiatives and stimulate investment opportunities between Qatar and Uzbekistan. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani described the partnership as paving the way for multifaceted connections, signaling intentions to share market insights and facilitate investment opportunities for businesses.
Rustam Karimjonov, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, envisioning new possibilities for businesses and innovation sectors to thrive. The agreement intends not just to bolster the investment landscapes but also to bridge opportunities for technology-driven enterprises aiming for growth within both territories.
Qatar is making significant investments to establish itself as a leader in digital transformation, with expectations of ICT spending reaching $6.2 billion by 2026 and the Digital Agenda 2030 projecting the creation of 26,000 jobs. These partnerships showcase the nation's strategic push to create synergies with international players and cultivate sustainable economic growth across diverse sectors.
The trio of partnerships unveiled—from technological enhancements to startup guidance—underscores Qatar's efforts to embrace digital innovation and solidify international cooperation, charting its course toward becoming a regional economic powerhouse driven by technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship.