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Qatar / General

Qatar emerges as digital economy pioneer in Middle East

Published: 12 May 2025 - 09:57 am | Last Updated: 13 May 2025 - 07:34 pm
Peninsula

Joel Johnson | The Peninsula

Doha, Qatar: Amid shifting global dynamics and a renewed focus on bilateral cooperation, Qatar is emerging as a key digital player in the region. Strengthened by its strategic ties with the United States, the country is harnessing international investment and expertise to scale its digital infrastructure and solidify its role in the global tech economy.

According to Silvina Moschini, Argentine-American industry expert and co-founder and chief strategy officer of Unicoin, Qatar has not only weathered past economic challenges but leveraged them as catalysts for a more resilient and future-focused economy.

Silvina Moschini, Argentine-American industry expert and co-founder and chief strategy officer of Unicoin.

“Qatar has adopted strategic measures that diversified its economy and strengthened its economic resilience and regional alliances,” Moschini told The Peninsula, noting the nation’s heavy investments in infrastructure and technology as key to its momentum. “Initiatives like the Qatar National Digital Agenda 2030 reflect its commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning the country as a regional leader in digital transformation,” she said.

As US President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Doha this week, the renewed involvement in Middle Eastern affairs signals promising opportunities for Qatar to deepen its economic ties with the United States. “Trump’s renewed engagement in the Middle East may usher in policies favoring bilateral trade and investment, particularly in sectors like technology and infrastructure,” she explained. “For Qatar, this could mean increased access to US markets and capital, fostering a more robust startup ecosystem.”

Moschini highlighted Qatar’s advantages, including its smart city investments, advanced digital infrastructure, and strategic focus on innovation, as key elements that position it to attract international talent and venture capital. “A renewed US presence may encourage greater collaboration between Qatari startups and American tech firms, creating pathways for knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and cross-border scale-ups,” she said.

Stressing the importance of long-term political stability and institutional strength, Moschini remarked that “from an investor’s perspective, stability is not just about the absence of conflict—it’s about the presence of coherent, long-term visions backed by reliable institutions.” She cited Qatar’s National Vision 2030 as a prime example, prioritising human capital development and the growth of a knowledge-based economy. “Qatar has demonstrated exactly that,” she stressed. “These factors reduce perceived risk and increase the attractiveness of early-stage and growth-stage investments in the country.”

Beyond direct investment, Moschini sees potential in broader cooperation, such as joint innovation zones and public-private partnerships. “These initiatives would support talent development, research collaboration, and the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, elevating Qatar’s global competitiveness,” she said.

Highlighting the role of platforms like Unicorn Hunters and digital assets such as Unicoin, Moschini emphasised the importance of global exposure and access to regulated investment vehicles for Qatari entrepreneurs. “These platforms can serve as bridges, connecting Qatari entrepreneurs with global investors and providing US-regulated digital assets.”

As the geopolitical landscape evolves, Moschini remains optimistic about Qatar’s trajectory. She stated: “Qatar’s expanding influence in international forums enhances its soft power. This credibility is crucial for entrepreneurs who rely not only on capital but also on global reputation to scale their ideas.”

With a strategic vision, strong governance, and alignment with global economic shifts, Moschini added that “Qatar is well-positioned to respond to changes in US economic policy and capitalize on emerging opportunities in energy transition, cybersecurity, digital finance, and beyond.”