Invest Qatar showcases Qatar’s dynamic startup ecosystem at Web Summit Lisbon 2024

The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) participated as a partner at Web Summit Lisbon for the second consecutive year, organising the Qatar Pavilion. Invest Qatar led a series of high-level business meetings and networking activities, including a panel discussion and masterclass, aimed to highlight Qatar’s dynamic investment landscape and the emerging opportunities within its rapidly growing startup ecosystem. 

Focused on the transformative power of foreign investment in driving economic diversification, Invest Qatar CEO Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani joined a panel discussion titled “MENA Money Moves: Qatar’s Growth Formula,” alongside Abdulrahman Hesham Al-Sowaidi, CEO of Qatar Development Bank (QDB). Moderated by Kelsey Cheng, Company News Chief of Caixin Global, the session provided insights into Qatar’s proactive approach to diversification and innovation. It also delved into how foreign investment, public-private partnerships and strategic economic initiatives are key forces propelling Qatar’s economic development and diversification journey. 

A key highlight of the panel was showcasing Qatar’s progress in establishing itself as a key investment destination and innovation hub for startups and entrepreneurs. With its pro-business climate, advanced infrastructure and high quality of life, Qatar is fostering a business-friendly ecosystem that generates a wealth of opportunities across sectors, like emerging technology, logistics and creative industries. This environment supports ambitious investors in pursuing sustainable growth both within Qatar and in the region. 

During the panel discussion, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: “Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy serves as the final bridge toward achieving the ambitious goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030, transforming the nation into a knowledge-based economy. This transformative journey underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering a business environment that attracts and supports global investors, positioning the country as a leading investment destination. This effort is anchored by three key pillars: robust macroeconomic resilience, a business-friendly regulatory framework and access to talent – all areas in which Qatar consistently ranks high.” 

In addition to the panel, Invest Qatar hosted a masterclass titled “Progress Made Possible: Why Qatar is the right place to establish and grow your startup”. Led by Fahad Ali Al-Kuwari, Senior Manager Investor Relations, the masterclass offered an in-depth exploration of how Qatar is emerging as a global hub for business and innovation and how the country’s holistic approach to investment attraction creates opportunities for entrepreneurs and startups. 

Invest Qatar’s presence at Web Summit Lison was further marked by the release of advanced features for Ai.SHA, the agency’s AI-powered virtual assistant developed in partnership with Microsoft. Originally launched in early 2024, Ai.SHA now offers an even more personalised, human-like experience, integrating enhanced functionalities tailored to meet the evolving needs of international investors and business visitors. Drawing on an expanded knowledge base, Ai.SHA tailors responses based on user preferences and provides comprehensive insights into Qatar’s investment landscape, making it a valuable resource for informed decision-making. 

This year, the Qatar Pavillion witnessed the participation of key entities, in collaboration with Invest Qatar and Visit Qatar, alongside the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Qatar Development Bank, Qatar Financial Centre, Qatar Free Zones Authority, Media City Qatar, Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council, and Qatar Manpower Solutions (Jusour). Serving as a platform to introduce Web Summit’s 70,000 attendees, including 1,000 investors and 3,000 companies, to Qatar’s thriving business ecosystem, the Pavilion offered an interactive experience, showcasing the dynamic startup landscape. It also enables attendees to discover the wealth of opportunities that Qatar offers. 

To learn more about Qatar’s dynamic startup ecosystem, visit startupqatar.qa or download our helpful guide, Qatar’s Startup Environment at invest.qa/publications.