MWC25 Doha is set to make its first-ever appearance in the Middle East, marking a defining moment for the region’s digital economy. Beginning on 25 November, the event will gather global technology leaders, startups, policymakers and regional operators to accelerate innovation across 5G, AI and next-generation digital infrastructure.
According to Jawad Jalal Abbassi, the GSMA’s partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has enabled Doha to host the congress under a five-year agreement. He said Qatar’s world-class event facilities, strong innovation ecosystem and commitment to digital transformation made it the natural home for the inaugural MENA edition.
The event is aligned with the National Digital Agenda 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030, giving MWC25 Doha strategic relevance as a platform for policy, investment and technology collaboration. Abbassi emphasised that the gathering is designed to create real dialogue and real outcomes, uniting global leaders in an accessible regional hub.
A major focus for the GSMA is ensuring long-term, sustainable investment in mobile networks. Abbassi highlighted the need for government–industry collaboration and regulatory certainty to encourage continued deployment of advanced technologies across the region. At the event, the GSMA Ministerial Programme will bring ministers, policymakers and CEOs together to address investment, innovation and global connectivity policy.
MENA’s mobile ecosystem continues to grow in economic significance. With more than 80% of mobile connections on smartphones, the sector underpins key services such as finance, education, healthcare and commerce. By 2030, mobile services are projected to contribute around $360bn to the region’s GDP.
Abbassi pointed to Ooredoo Group as an example of regional progress, investing over $1bn to extend high-speed 5G coverage to more than 100 million people across MENA and Southeast Asia. He noted that mobile broadband drives skills development, financial inclusion and the emergence of new digital industries.
Artificial intelligence and 5G are now shaping MENA’s technological trajectory. Countries like Qatar and the UAE have integrated AI into national strategies, while the Gulf continues to lead 5G deployment. Kuwait was among the first globally to launch 5G-Advanced, and Ooredoo Qatar was the first Arab operator to complete an international 5G call. More recently, du activated dual-band active antenna 5G-A, marking another regional first.
Despite progress, the GSMA notes that spectrum allocation, regulatory frameworks and energy resilience remain critical challenges. North Africa still relies heavily on 2G and 3G, while Gulf operators are phasing out older generations to free spectrum for 4G and 5G. Abbassi stressed that technology-neutral policies and fair pricing are essential for long-term investment.
Looking ahead, the region is expected to see rapid advancement. Just 4% of MENA mobile connections were on 5G two years ago; this is expected to rise to 50% within five years and 95% in GCC markets. Abbassi said the pace of progress positions MENA to lead new digital economies.
Events like MWC25 Doha will play a central role in this shift, convening founders, ministers, CEOs and industry leaders to shape the region’s hyperconnected future. The GSMA’s partnership with Qatar ensures the event aligns with national goals while helping build the foundations of tomorrow’s digital landscape.
