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MWC26 Doha: A Significant Gathering for the MENA Region

The recent conclusion of MWC26 held in Doha marks a pivotal moment in the realm of global connectivity. The event attracted over 10,000 participants from approximately 100 countries, underscoring the ambitions of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in digital growth and transformation. Organized in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT), the three-day event was rich in discussions, networking opportunities, and strategic collaborations aimed at redefining the region's role in the global connectivity ecosystem.

A Nexus of Innovation and Policy

For the first time, MWC26 was staged concurrently with the opening days of the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-26) at the same venue. This unique co-location presented a significant opportunity for policymakers and industry leaders to sit side by side, enabling direct discussions that bridged the gap between regulation and innovation in the tech sector.

Sianne Ryder, GSMA’s managing director for events and industry services, noted the extraordinary environment that this synergy created. She highlighted that the attendance of high-ranking officials, including 36 ministers and 34 heads of national regulatory agencies, allowed for practical conversations that lay the groundwork for future digital strategies in the region.

Highlights of the Event

MWC26 showcased a variety of influential speakers, and hosted 195 presentations during keynotes, summits, and partner programs. The event illustrated the exciting prospects for embedded intelligence, next-generation infrastructures, and robust national digital strategies.

Notably, out of the attendees, 14% were C-level executives and 37% were directors or higher, reflecting the high caliber of the discussions taking place. Additionally, about 62% of the participants came from industries closely linked to the core mobile ecosystem, ensuring dynamic exchanges of ideas and practices.

Another significant aspect was the GSMA Ministerial Programme, which brought together 86 delegations representing 74 countries and 12 intergovernmental organizations. This not only highlighted the global significance of MWC26 but also encouraged the signing of 42 partnerships and announcements aimed at fostering collaborative efforts in the telecommunications sector.

Across the exhibition floor, approximately 100 exhibitors, sponsors, and partners presented their latest innovations and offerings, creating a vibrant atmosphere of technological showcase and discovery. The presence of over 220 media representatives further amplified the event’s visibility, allowing it to capture the attention of audiences worldwide.

Looking Ahead

With the successful conclusion of MWC26, the GSMA is now gearing up for MWC27, scheduled to take place in Barcelona from March 1 to 4, 2027. The organization is also thrilled to announce its return to Doha, with plans to engage the connectivity ecosystem once again from November 15 to 17, 2027.

In summary, MWC26 Doha not only spotlighted the MENA region’s aspirations in the global connectivity landscape but also set the stage for ongoing progress and partnerships. The collaborative energy of such high-profile interactions will undoubtedly lead to tangible impacts across the region and beyond, marking a bright future for technological advancement in MENA.