Qatar is enhancing its economy through investments in AI and cloud computing under National Vision 2030. The introduction of the Fanar language model and collaboration with Huawei facilitate advancements in various sectors. The country promotes a supportive startup ecosystem and focuses on developing its ICT sector to drive economic growth and innovation in digital technologies.
Doha, Qatar’s economic diversification strategy has led to numerous investment opportunities, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. The country is significantly investing in AI as part of its National Vision 2030, collaborating with institutions like Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) to enhance AI integration in sectors such as healthcare and finance, according to Dr. Zhu Shenggao, Vice President of AI at Huawei Cloud Middle East and Central Asia.
The introduction of the local large language model, Fanar, boosts AI capabilities in the region. Its functionalities in predictive analytics, automation, and public services are pivotal in accelerating economic growth. Dr. Shenggao emphasized the role of digital innovation in creating growth opportunities within AI, cloud computing, and emerging technologies across Qatar and the broader region.
Rapid adoption of cloud computing illustrates modernization in IT infrastructure, supported by Qatar’s collaboration with Huawei on sovereign cloud solutions and high-performance computing (HPC) data centers, which foster initiatives in AI, big data, and machine learning. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, technologies such as 5G, IoT, blockchain, and robotics are being utilized to enhance smart city developments and promote sustainable industries.
These advanced technologies contribute to developments in autonomous vehicles, smart infrastructure, and remote healthcare, with blockchain enhancing secure transactions and supply chain management. Huawei Cloud’s strategy of Everything as a Service integrates Infrastructure as a Service, Technology as a Service, and Expertise as a Service to provide comprehensive solutions.
Dr. Shenggao elaborated on KooVerse, Huawei Cloud’s global infrastructure, which delivers unified architecture in 93 availability zones across 33 regions, serving more than 170 countries. This allows enterprises to leverage Huawei Cloud without the need for extensive data center investments.
Additionally, Qatar is nurturing a favorable startup ecosystem through initiatives like the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) and the Qatar Investment Authority’s tech fund, forming partnerships with companies like Huawei to enhance cloud and AI infrastructure. These strategic investments are positioning Qatar and the GCC as frontrunners in digital innovation, creating new business ventures and increasing efficiency.
Focusing on its ICT sector’s growth aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes transitioning to a knowledge-based economy. Qatar identifies six essential factors, including a national innovation strategy and ample funding for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to establish and uphold a robust startup ecosystem.
In summary, Qatar’s vision for economic diversification through AI and cloud computing is creating significant investment opportunities. With initiatives like the local AI model Fanar and extensive partnerships in digital infrastructure, Qatar is enhancing its capabilities in various sectors. The supportive startup ecosystem and strong ICT sector focus, consistent with Qatar National Vision 2030, position it as a leader in the GCC region for digital innovation and economic growth.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
