Doha, January 28 (QNA) - Invest Qatar, the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar, has announced its participation in Web Summit Qatar 2026 through the Startup Qatar Pavilion, as part of its ongoing efforts to highlight the strengths of the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Building on the strong engagement of previous editions, the Startup Qatar Pavilion will highlight the nation's business-friendly environment and the wide range of opportunities available to startups, especially those seeking to establish a presence and scale their operations into the region.

The Startup Qatar Pavilion will serve as a central platform, connecting participants with key national entities that play a strategic role in supporting startups and fostering innovation across Qatar's ecosystem, including Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Ministry of Sports and Youth, Media City Qatar, Qatar Manpower Solutions (Jusour) and Hayya.

The pavilion will feature enhanced services designed to accelerate startup growth, including streamlined business setup and licensing, access to investment and funding programmes, specialised immigration support and expert advisory services.

CEO of Invest Qatar Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, said: "Web Summit Qatar has grown into a powerful platform that reinforces Qatar's role as a global hub for technology and innovation. Beyond supporting ambitious startups and entrepreneurs, we are forging strategic partnerships with leading tech players, connecting them to the country's dynamic market and supporting their expansion. We look forward to building on this momentum, to drive the next phase of innovation-led growth in Qatar."

This year, Invest Qatar's CEO will also participate in a panel discussion titled "The Global Chip Supply: Risks, Gaps, and Cooperation," exploring how partnerships, investment, and R&D can reduce supply risks and position regions like the Middle East as emerging players in the global semiconductor ecosystem. Panelists include Executive Vice President & Chief Global Development & Venturing Officer at imec, Max Mirgoli, and Senior Vice President of Vertical Business Units and President of Analog Devices (ADI) EMEA, Martin Cotter.

Launched ahead of the inaugural Web Summit Qatar, the Startup Qatar initiative provides a one-stop online platform for information, support and opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs. Last year, the Startup Qatar pavilion saw a large turnout from global participants. Over 1,600 companies registered to open offices via QFC during the event.

The Web Summit Qatar 2026 kicks off next Sunday and runs until Feb. 4 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). This year's event marks the third edition of the fastest-growing technology event in the Middle East and North Africa region. (QNA)