By: Kazeem Adeleke , Okechukwu D. Okechukwu & Faith Nkwoukwa
The global technology conference Web Summit is set to return to Doha, with organisers reporting a sharp rise in participation and a growing economic footprint for the host city.
After a successful debut in Qatar, the forthcoming edition of Web Summit Qatar is expected to attract significantly higher attendance, reflecting the Gulf state’s fast-rising profile as a regional innovation hub. Event organisers say registrations have surged, with the number of startups, investors and international delegates projected to roughly double compared with the inaugural gathering.
The expansion underscores Qatar’s strategic push to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons by positioning Doha as a magnet for technology investment, entrepreneurship and digital talent.
Rising global interest
Founded by Paddy Cosgrave, Web Summit has grown into one of the world’s most influential technology conference platforms, known for convening founders, policymakers, venture capital firms and major tech companies. The Doha edition builds on the brand’s established presence in cities such as Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro, while targeting emerging innovation ecosystems across the Middle East and North Africa.
Organisers note that the surge in interest is being driven by strong participation from regional startups, sovereign wealth funds, and global venture investors seeking exposure to high-growth markets.
Economic gains for Doha
Beyond attendance figures, the conference is also delivering measurable economic benefits to Qatar. Hospitality, aviation, logistics and event-services sectors are expected to see increased activity as thousands of international visitors arrive in Doha for the multi-day gathering.
Local officials view the event as a catalyst for:
- Increased foreign direct investment
- Startup funding and partnerships
- Knowledge transfer and skills development
- Tourism and business travel growth
Analysts say repeat hosting of high-profile tech events strengthens Doha’s positioning as a year-round destination for global business conferences.
Startups and AI in focus
This year’s programme is expected to place strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, fintech, climate technology and digital infrastructure areas that align with regional economic transformation agendas.
Startups from across the Middle East, Africa and Asia are anticipated to showcase innovations to international investors, while policymakers are expected to use the platform to advance cross-border digital cooperation.
Strategic ambitions
Qatar’s continued partnership with Web Summit reflects a broader national strategy to build a knowledge-based economy and deepen its role in the global technology ecosystem. For Web Summit, the Doha expansion offers access to fast-growing markets and capital pools across the Gulf.
With attendance set to surge and economic spillovers expanding, the return of Web Summit to Doha signals the event’s growing importance on the global tech conference calendar and Qatar’s determination to anchor itself firmly within the world’s innovation economy.
