The GSMA Mobile World Congress (MWC) successfully debuted its newest regional event in Doha, Qatar. The inaugural MWC Doha 2025 marked a crucial milestone for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) technology sector. This was the first time the prestigious MWC series was hosted in the region. The two-day conference brought global leaders, policymakers, and innovators together.
The event, held in partnership with Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, focused on major technological themes. Discussions centered on the AI Nexus, Intelligent Economies, and Connected Industries. Specifically, the agenda highlighted the transformative power of 5G, artificial intelligence, and intelligent infrastructure. Nearly 9,500 unique attendees participated. They underscored the region’s growing influence in the global connectivity ecosystem.
Massive Economic Forecast
The sheer size of the region’s digital ambition dominated the conversations. The GSMA launched its Mobile Economy MENA 2025 Report at the event. This report projected staggering economic growth. The mobile sector is expected to contribute $470 billion to the MENA economy by 2030. This marks a sharp increase from the $350 billion estimated in 2024.
This rapid growth is largely fueled by accelerating 5G adoption. The report indicated that 5G connections across MENA will rise dramatically. They are projected to climb from just seven percent of total connections in 2024 to 48 percent by 2030. Investment in technologies like AI and next-generation networks is central to this forecast.
Qatar Leads Digital Adoption
The host nation, Qatar, received high praise for its digital leadership. A separate GSMA report highlighted the country’s advanced positioning. It showed Qatar ranks highest worldwide for enterprise adoption of AI, big data, and private 5G networks. This investment success positions the nation as a key global hub for innovation.
The conference floor displayed technology directly connected to this investment. One standout demonstration involved a record-setting, long-distance remotely driven car. Drivers in Doha successfully piloted a vehicle located 4,300 kilometers away. The low latency of 5G Standalone (5G-SA) networks powered this feat. This proved the real-world capabilities of advanced connectivity and intelligent mobility solutions.
Bridging the Digital Divide
The event also tackled the urgent need for inclusive digital growth. While Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations lead the pace, a significant digital usage gap persists across the wider MENA region. Policymakers gathered in the inaugural Ministerial Programme. This platform hosted 60 delegations from 49 countries. They discussed actionable strategies to expand affordable digital access. The GSMA emphasized that progress must reach every community. It called for coordinated action to build essential digital skills.
The debut of MWC Doha solidifies the region’s role in shaping the global digital agenda. It has established a major platform for strategic partnerships. The successful event confirms the Middle East and North Africa as an engine for the next wave of global technological transformation.
