Qatar positions data sovereignty, power supply at core of AI expansion
National strategies for artificial intelligence (AI) prioritise local computing capacity to protect sensitive data within borders, according to an industry leader. “A key focus of national AI strategi...
Qatar is focusing on data sovereignty and power supply as crucial elements in its artificial intelligence (AI) expansion, according to industry leader Jawad Abbassi. At the 2026 edition of Mobile World Congress (MWC) Doha, Abbassi emphasized the importance of local computing capacity for protecting sensitive data within national borders.
He highlighted Qatar's excellent infrastructure, including its telecom and energy networks, and relatively low electricity costs, making it an ideal location for AI data centre development. Abbassi pointed out that Qatar's modern infrastructure and globally connected, advanced telecom operator provide key competitive advantages for physical AI operations.
He also mentioned that a reliable electricity grid and cost-effective power are crucial for regional AI projects. Abbassi outlined emerging commercial models for regional network operators to monetize their capital investments in GPU capacity, leasing it to organizations and entities seeking to run AI models. Looking ahead, he noted that the next five years will focus on monetizing advanced wireless networks across key economic sectors, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, aviation, transport, and tourism, as part of broader digital transformation goals.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf Times Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.