MWC26 Doha kicks off, highlighting AI and 6G as top priorities

Doha, Qatar: The second edition of Mobile World Congress (MWC) Doha kicked off yesterday, with artificial intelligence, next-generation 6G networks and resilient connectivity taking center stage as the industry's future directions. Discussions revolved around bolstering connectivity infrastructure, diversifying network routes, and hastening the integration of terrestrial, submarine and satellite networks to fuel the digital economy's expansion.

The event, themed 'The IQ Era', was organized by GSMA in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). Notable attendees included Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H.E. Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman, Finance Minister H.E. Ali bin Ahmed, and Communications Minister H.E. Mohammed bin Ali.

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the necessity for greater collaboration to adapt to the evolving tech sector. "The second edition of MWC Doha occurs at a time when telecommunications infrastructure requirements are undergoing fundamental changes," he noted. "As artificial intelligence progresses towards executing tasks through intelligent agents, the demand for more robust networks and advanced computing capabilities becomes increasingly crucial."

He emphasized the need to expand connectivity pathways and maintain uninterrupted service due to worldwide uncertainties and challenges. The developments are driving new priorities for the telecommunications sector, including the development of 6G networks, enhanced integration between terrestrial, submarine and satellite networks, and increased access to computing capabilities.

Minister Al-Mannai announced Qatar's commitment to investing in these areas under the Digital Agenda 2030, aiming to strengthen national capabilities and foster innovation and investment. The GSMA also unveiled two reports at the event, detailing the MENA mobile economy and the growth of 5G connections. The mobile sector was projected to contribute $380 billion to the region's GDP, expected to reach $470 billion by 2030. 5G connections were anticipated to grow from $67 million to $350 million within the same timeframe.