Kazakhstan and Qatar are accelerating their digital transformation journeys, embedding emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and cloud computing to reshape their economies, public services, and financial systems. Both nations are leveraging digital innovation as a foundation for future growth and regional leadership.
In Kazakhstan, the government’s 2024 digitization directive from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has rapidly yielded results. The country has launched initiatives such as the Crypto City pilot zone, the Solana Economic Zone—the first in Central Asia—and is exploring a national digital asset bank. These efforts are accompanied by a national AI strategy and the establishment of a pioneering AI research center and supercomputer cluster.
Telecommunications upgrades have also boosted connectivity, with 95% of citizens now online, supported by Starlink’s entry. Blockchain integration into government services has saved over $24 million by curbing corruption, while digital tools in healthcare and education are improving access and efficiency. With new blockchain education modules across 100 universities, Kazakhstan is strengthening its talent pipeline to drive long-term innovation.
Meanwhile, Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has partnered with IBM to overhaul its IT infrastructure, aligning with the country’s broader digital economy vision. The bank is adopting IBM Cloud Pak for Integration, capable of handling 40,000 API calls daily, IBM Instana for AI-powered real-time monitoring, and IBM Turbonomic for energy-efficient resource management. These upgrades aim to enhance digital banking experiences, improve resilience, and reduce operational costs.
Beyond QDB, Qatar is testing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and advancing digital asset regulations to guide financial service providers. Broader AI adoption in finance is aimed at reducing fraud and increasing productivity, cementing Qatar’s place among the region’s digital frontrunners.
Together, Kazakhstan and Qatar are positioning themselves as key players in the global digital economy, driving innovation in governance, finance, and infrastructure while building robust ecosystems for long-term growth.
