AL-Monitor Doha: Web Summit Qatar 2025 brings top innovators
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One of the region’s most anticipated tech events, Web Summit Qatar 2025, is returning to Doha, bringing top innovators to the city. Meanwhile, music lovers won’t want to miss the 25N 51E Music Festival, featuring Tiesto and Black Coffee.
Leading the week: Web Summit Qatar 2025
Doha is gearing up to host one of the most influential tech gatherings in the region: Web Summit Qatar 2025. The event is set to attract over 15,000 attendees from 180 countries, including 1,000 startups and 400 investors looking to shape the future of innovation.
The conference will showcase an impressive lineup of speakers, including co-founder of Reddit Alexis Ohanian; author and podcast host Jay Shetty; journalist and author Malcolm Gladwell; and Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice chairperson and CEO of the Qatar Foundation. These thought leaders will share insights on key topics such as AI, fintech, cybersecurity and digital transformation.
Beyond keynote speeches, Web Summit Qatar will feature a range of activities, including high-impact networking opportunities, startup pitch competitions and expert-led discussions on the latest industry trends. Whether you're a tech entrepreneur, investor or enthusiast, the summit provides a unique opportunity to connect with global leaders shaping the digital economy.
Dates: Feb. 23-26
Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center
Find more information here.
Word on the street: 25N 51E Music Festival
John Legend and Tiesto shake hands as they perform at the Opening Ceremony during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit on Nov. 15, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Featuring world-renowned DJs such as Tiesto and Black Coffee, the 25N 51E Music Festival is set to ignite the desert skies with electrifying beats. Set against the backdrop of Ras Abrouq, the festival offers a unique blend of music and nature. Dramatic desert landscapes and striking rock formations create the perfect setting for a night of music under the stars.
In addition to Tiesto and Black Coffee, the festival will feature a stellar lineup of six international and regional DJs, including Claptone, Eats Everything, Electro Maqam, and Zaytune + Mido.
With Ramadan around the corner, this festival will be one of the last major events before the city embraces the peaceful and reflective atmosphere of the holy month.
Date: Feb. 21
Location: Ras Abrouq
Find more information here.
Doha diary
US pop star Lionel Richie performs inside Windsor Castle grounds at the Coronation Concert in Windsor, west of London 2023. (Photo by Leon Neal/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Lionel Richie concert
Known for his soulful voice and timeless hits, Lionel Richie takes the stage in Doha this week for a live concert. This is a unique opportunity to witness a true music legend perform some of his greatest hits, including fan favorites like “Hello” and “All Night Long.”
Date: Feb. 20
Location: Doha Golf Club
Find more information here.
Halal Qatar Festival
The 13th edition of the Halal Qatar Festival, held at Katara’s Southern Area, invites visitors to explore a wide range of halal food, products and cultural experiences. This event brings together local and international vendors.
Dates: Feb. 19-24
Location: Katara’s Southern Area
Find more information here.
Stand-up comedy by John Achkar
Get ready for an evening of laughter with Lebanese stand-up comedian John Achkar at La Cigale Hotel. Known for his sharp wit, Achkar’s comedic style resonates with audiences across the region.
Date: Feb. 22
Location: La Cigale Hotel
Find more information here.
QPW Super Slam 111
QPW Super Slam III brings high-energy wrestling action to Doha and features some of the world’s top wrestling talent. Fans can look forward to intense matches, larger-than-life personalities and thrilling showdowns in the ring.
Dates: Feb. 21-22
Location: Aspire Ladies Sports Hall
Find more information here.
Night Run for All 2025
The Night Run for All 2025, held at Lusail Sports Arena, invites participants of all abilities to take part in a fun run along a scenic route. Participants get to enjoy the stunning surroundings while promoting fitness.
Date: Feb. 22
Location: Lusail Sports Arena
Find more information here.
Book of the week: “Masters of the Pearl — A History of Qatar”
“Masters of the Pearl” offers a deep dive into Qatar’s transformation from a pearl fishing hub to a global powerhouse driven by oil and gas. Michael Quentin Morton explores the country’s rich history, shedding light on the lives of its people — tribes, travelers, seafarers and slaves — alongside its rulers. Through personal insights and historical anecdotes, the book uncovers the stories that have shaped Qatar, providing a clearer understanding of this enigmatic nation and its rising global significance.
View from Doha
Amanda Anisimova of the United States holds the trophy after winning against Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia during the Qatar TotalEnergies Open, part of the Hologic WTA Tour at Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex on Feb. 15, 2025 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Mohamed Farag/Getty Images)
By the numbers
- Desert activities in Ras Brouq, organized by Visit Qatar, from Dec. 18 to Feb. 15 attracted more than 55,000 visitors over 60 days.
- The opening of Al Markhiya Plaza Park showcases a diverse collection of over 273 tree species.
