As Web Summit Qatar 2025 unfolds, thought leaders, innovators, and government representatives are showcasing the country’s commitment to fostering digital transformation and economic growth. Among the key figures at the event is Noor Al Malki, Head of Digital Economy Development at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in Qatar. Al Malki is leading efforts to empower startups, drive technological innovation, and accelerate Qatar’s position as a digital economy hub.
Building a Thriving Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
Qatar’s MCIT has been actively engaged in strengthening the entrepreneurship ecosystem through a variety of strategic programs. According to Al Malki, the Ministry’s focus is on providing comprehensive support to startups at various stages of development.
“We have several unique programs designed to facilitate entrepreneurship across the entire value chain,” she explained. “Among them are the TESMO Accelerator, the Digital Incubation Center, and our newly launched Scale program, a first-of-its-kind initiative in Qatar aimed at supporting startups in their growth stage.”
The Scale program, a flagship initiative under MCIT, offers tailored mentorship, international expertise, and strategic guidance for startups looking to expand their operations. “In our first batch, we are supporting six promising startups through the expertise of 12 global mentors, delivering over 100 hours of customized strategic guidance,” Al Malki shared. “We are already seeing tangible positive impacts, not only for these startups but for the overall economy as well.”
Sector-Agnostic, Technology-Focused Growth
Unlike some accelerator programs that concentrate on specific industries, Qatar’s Scale program remains sector-agnostic while maintaining a strong focus on technology-driven startups.
“We want to ensure that all growth-stage startups have access to the resources they need, regardless of the sector they operate in,” said Al Malki. “As long as they are in the technology space, we can provide the necessary mentorship and guidance to help them scale.”
This open approach allows a diverse range of startups to benefit from the program, ensuring that innovation flourishes across various sectors, from fintech to health tech, smart cities, and AI-driven solutions.
A Strong Public-Private Collaboration
The Web Summit Qatar 2025 has provided a dynamic platform for fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. Al Malki highlighted the remarkable synergy between government-backed initiatives and private-sector investments.
“This year, we are witnessing significant movement in terms of startup support,” she noted. “Under the Startup Qatar umbrella, we are working closely with partners like Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) to launch impactful initiatives that fuel startup growth and innovation.”
Such collaborations are playing a crucial role in positioning Qatar as a leading destination for entrepreneurs looking to launch and scale their ventures.
Engaging with the Startup Community
With high levels of engagement at the Web Summit, Al Malki emphasized the strong interest and curiosity among attendees regarding Qatar’s startup initiatives. “We are receiving a lot of questions, which is always a good thing,” she said. “People are eager to understand how they can leverage the opportunities available, and that’s exactly the kind of conversation we want to encourage.”
For startups and scale-ups looking for support, the next step is simple: “Come to our booth, apply, and we will be more than happy to support you,” Al Malki encouraged.
Qatar’s Digital Future
As the summit progresses, Qatar’s commitment to a digital and knowledge-based economy becomes increasingly evident. With MCIT spearheading groundbreaking initiatives, startups in Qatar are gaining access to unparalleled resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities. By fostering a supportive ecosystem for innovation, Qatar is paving the way for sustained economic diversification and technological advancement.
With strong public-private partnerships, a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, and government-led initiatives like the Scale program, Qatar is well on its way to becoming a regional leader in digital economy development. As Al Malki and her team continue their mission, the future looks increasingly bright for technology-driven startups in Qatar and beyond.
