Qatar is set to experience a 2.3% boost in its GDP and generate $5 billion in revenue by 2030, driven by the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to officials at a recent AI Tour event hosted by Microsoft. The event highlighted the nation’s progress in AI and its transformation into a global leader in innovation.
The event was attended by key figures, including the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, the President of Microsoft EMEA, Ralph Haupter, and the General Manager of Microsoft Qatar, Lana Khalaf. They discussed the significant progress Qatar has made in AI as part of its Digital Agenda 2030, which aims to integrate digital government projects and adopt innovative solutions for greater efficiency and public-private collaboration.
Minister Al Mannai emphasized the private sector’s crucial role in supporting Qatar’s digital transformation, developing national talent, and fostering knowledge exchange. “Qatar has witnessed significant progress in AI, and we are determined to continue our journey of transformation, aligning with Qatar’s Vision 2030,” he stated.
Ralph Haupter, President of Microsoft EMEA, discussed the global impact of AI, noting that it is expected to increase the world’s GDP by 5% by 2030. He expressed excitement about Microsoft’s partnership with Qatar, which aims to not only contribute $11 billion to the economy but also create 13,000 technology-related jobs by the decade’s end.
Lana Khalaf, General Manager of Microsoft Qatar, highlighted the impressive return on investment for organizations in Qatar, stating that every dollar spent on Generative AI would yield a return of $5.50. She also emphasized that the true impact of AI lies in its integration across Qatar’s economy, industries, and daily life, aligning with the country’s goals of sustainability, diversity, and prosperity.
The event also celebrated local innovation through the AI Excellence Awards, recognizing entities in Qatar that have successfully implemented AI solutions. Awardees included the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar Airways, Hamad International Airport, QatarEnergy LNG, Qatar National Bank, Qatar Tourism Authority (Visit Qatar), Vodafone, and the winner of Microsoft’s hackathon, Hawks.AI Team.
The Doha stop was part of Microsoft’s global AI Tour, which spans 60 cities worldwide. Under the theme “AI for Everyone: AI Innovation Today and Tomorrow,” the event provided participants with hands-on sessions led by top Microsoft executives and AI experts.
