#Qatar #Doha #GSMA #MWC26 #ITU Conference

MWC26 Doha: A Hub for Global Connectivity

The MWC26 event in Doha marked a significant milestone in the world’s telecommunications landscape, gathering over 10,000 industry figures and policy makers from 100 different nations. This ambitious gathering showcased the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) as a burgeoning center for digital growth and innovation.

Hosted from November 10-12, 2026, the event was an important platform for discussions on digital transformation, infrastructure, and national digital strategies which are reshaping the region’s connectivity ecosystem. The strategic partnership with the State of Qatar's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) resulted in a synergistic collaboration that benefited all attendees.

One of the standout features of the MWC26 was its unprecedented co-location with the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26), which created unique opportunities for dialogues between policymakers and industry titans. Sianne Ryder, CEO of GSMA, elaborated on the benefits of this merging, noting that it enabled sharper discussions about the future of MENA’s digital landscape. With such synergy, the event facilitated stronger connections between policymakers and industry leaders, ultimately paving the way for impactful partnerships.

During the three-day event, participants engaged in informative keynotes, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities. Highlights included presentations from prominent speakers, including GSMA Director General Vivek Badrinath and ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, who participated in a thought-provoking discussion on the evolution of global connectivity.

Key Statistics: MWC26 in Numbers

• - Attendees: Over 10,000 from 100 countries
• - C-Suite Representation: Approximately 14%
• - Director Level and Above: 37%
• - Adjacent Industries Representation: 62%
• - Ministerial Program: Convened 86 delegations, featuring 36 Ministers and 34 Heads of National Regulatory Authorities
• - Countries Represented: 74 countries and 12 intergovernmental organizations
• - Speakers: 195 across various sessions
• - Exhibitors & Sponsors: 100
• - Partnership Announcements: 42 signed during the event
• - Media Presence: Over 220 media personnel present.

The successful execution of MWC26 further emphasized Qatar's position as a leader in the realm of digital services and telecommunications. Participants left with a wealth of knowledge and strategies essential for navigating the fast-evolving digital environment. The discussions held at the conference are expected to inspire advancements in policy and technology across the region.

As the GSMA now shifts its focus to the upcoming MWC27 scheduled for March 1-4, 2027, in Barcelona, it expressed eagerness to welcome back participants from all over the connectivity spectrum to Doha in November 2027 for another enriching experience. The potential for innovation and collaboration in MENA remains boundless, spurred on by the connections made at MWC26.

In summary, MWC26 Doha was a hallmark gathering, showcasing the ambitious vision of the MENA region and its crucial role in shaping global connectivity policy and innovation in the future.