#Qatar #Doha #GSMA #MWC26

MWC26 Doha: A New Era of Connectivity in MENA

The Mobile World Congress 2026 (MWC26) commenced today in Doha, Qatar, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts to create global industry standards. Held in conjunction with the Ministry of Communications and Technology of Qatar at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), the event gathered key stakeholders including operators, tech leaders, policymakers, and innovators for three days of discussion and collaboration on the future of connectivity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

In his welcoming speech, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and ICT, emphasized the critical changes in telecommunications infrastructure. He pointed out that as artificial intelligence evolves, the pressing demand for resilient networks and advanced computing capabilities also grows. Simultaneously, global challenges underscore the necessity for diversified connectivity solutions and consistent service delivery.

The event's official opener featured an engaging discussion with Vivek Badrinath, the GSMA's Director General, and Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the ITU. Badrinath highlighted the pivotal focus areas that will shape the connected future of the region, including ongoing commitment towards global standards that ensure interoperability across markets and efforts to extend connectivity to under-connected populations in MENA.

Badrinath stated, “Progress only matters if everyone is part of it. This involves establishing global norms that secure the functionality of networks, services, and devices across borders, along with a coordinated effort to reach individuals lacking internet access.” Over the course of three days, MWC26 Doha will host dialogues among key leaders and innovators tasked with setting these standards and developing the necessary infrastructure to realize this ambitious vision. With the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) happening simultaneously, there is hope that enhanced dialogue will contribute significantly to vital ongoing discussions.

Moreover, the Congress forecasts that the mobile economy will contribute an impressive $470 billion to the MENA region by 2030, underscoring the immense potential of connectivity to drive economic growth. The emphasis on international collaboration at MWC26 aims to solidify commitments to overcome the existing connectivity gaps within these vital areas.

The discussions at MWC26 are not just theoretical; they will have real-world implications for millions expecting reliable connectivity for education, business, and communication. The gathering serves as a crucial platform for setting standards that will guide the development of telecommunications in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

With a clear agenda laid out, MWC26 Doha is poised to become a transformative event that could alter the trajectory of connectivity in MENA. Participants are charged with the collective responsibility to pave the way for future advancements that will ultimately lead to a connected and inclusive future for the region. As more voices join the conversation, the hope is that tangible solutions will emerge to bridge the connectivity divide and foster opportunities for all.