The Qatar Web Summit 2025, occurring from February 23 to 26, 2025, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, marks a significant milestone as the second edition of this premier technology conference in the Middle East. With over 25,000 attendees from 124 countries, it has solidified its position as a key gathering for global tech visionaries, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Event Details and Significance
The summit, organized by Web Summit, is designed to foster connections between founders and investors, journalists, and other key figures in the tech world. It runs through February 26, 2025, and is part of a five-year commitment to transform Doha into a global tech hub, as outlined by the Government Communications Office (Web Summit Qatar Overview). This year’s event has hit full capacity, welcoming a diverse international crowd, which underscores its growing influence and appeal.
Key Themes and Focus Areas
The conference covers a broad spectrum of topics, with a strong emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a central theme, with sessions exploring its future and impact, as reported by Al Jazeera (Future of AI in Focus). Other areas include fintech, sustainability, and digital market trends, reflecting the global tech landscape’s evolution. The event’s focus on inclusivity and diversity is evident, promoting participation from startups and established companies alike, creating a dynamic environment for idea exchange.
Notable Speakers and Their Contributions
The speaker lineup is notably diverse, featuring tech entrepreneurs, government officials, and cultural icons. Key speakers include:
| Name | Title/Role |
|---|---|
| Alexandr Wang | Founder & CEO Scale AI |
| Alexis Ohanian | Founder & General Partner Seven Seven Six; Co-Founder of Reddit |
| Will Smith | Actor and Musician |
| Blake Chandlee | President, Global Business Solutions TikTok |
| Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani | Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Government of Qatar |
| Jay Shetty | Global bestselling author & podcast host of On Purpose |
| Eduardo Saverin | Co-founder and Co-CEO B Capital |
| Carla Zakhem-Hassan | Chief Marketing Officer J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. |
| Malcolm Gladwell | Journalist & Author |
| Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani | Vice Chairperson and CEO Qatar Foundation |
Alexis Ohanian, known for his startup insights, and Will Smith, offering a celebrity perspective on tech, are among the highlights. Their sessions, particularly on opening days, have drawn significant attention, with Ohanian discussing investment strategies and Smith exploring entertainment-tech intersections. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani‘s session on partnerships and collective action further emphasizes the summit’s role in fostering innovation (Speakers List).
Significant Announcements and Initiatives
A major announcement came during the opening ceremony on February 23, 2025, when the Prime Minister inaugurated the summit and outlined Qatar’s economic vision. He announced the establishment of a USD 1 billion Fund of Funds by the Qatar Investment Authority, selecting six globally recognized investment firms to set up offices in Qatar. This initiative targets sectors like digital health, fintech, clean energy, AI, and manufacturing, aiming to enhance Qatar’s position as a tech hub (Prime Minister’s Speech). Additionally, the Startup Qatar initiative has expanded, attracting over 2,000 applications from 60 countries, further solidifying Qatar’s appeal to global entrepreneurs.
Session Highlights and AI Focus
AI sessions have been a focal point, with leading entrepreneurs like Alexandr Wang from Scale AI and Alexis Ohanian sharing insights on AI’s global impact. The Express Tribune reported on February 24, 2025, that the summit addresses key AI questions, attracting over 1,520 startups and 600 investors (AI Innovation Center Stage). Masterclasses, such as one hosted by iHeart Media on sensory experiences, add depth to the program, offering attendees opportunities to learn from industry experts (Event Guide).
Atmosphere and Attendee Experiences
The atmosphere at the summit is described as electric, with X posts from attendees and organizers capturing the excitement. For instance, an X post from @ILQLive on February 23, 2025, highlighted the opening ceremony with prominent speakers,
🚀 Web Summit Qatar 2025 – Day 1!
— ILoveQatar – Live (@ILQLive) February 24, 2025
The region’s biggest tech event kicked off, bringing together 20,000+ attendees, 1,250+ startups, and industry leaders! 🌍💡
👈🏼 Registered attendees can join workshops, network with startups, explore exhibitor stands, and discover interactive… pic.twitter.com/RznZnPHkgQ
while @GCOQatar shared a photo of the Prime Minister’s speech, noting over 25,000 attendees.
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated Web Summit Qatar 2025 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center. Running until 26 February, the summit brings together over 25,000 attendees, 1,500+ startups,… pic.twitter.com/MoSKvAlpK7
— مكتب الاتصال الحكومي (@GCOQatar) February 23, 2025
The Night Summit events provide a vibrant networking opportunity, allowing attendees to unwind and experience Qatari culture, enhancing the social dimension of the conference.
Remaining Days and Future Outlook
As of February 25, 2025, the summit is in full swing, with sessions continuing through February 26. Upcoming events include panel discussions on fintech and sustainability, and masterclasses offering networking opportunities. The summit’s role in positioning Qatar as a bridge between East and West, fostering partnerships to address global challenges, is evident, with plans to host the event five times through 2028, as per Visit Qatar (Event Details).
