The fourth edition of the Smart City Expo concluded this week, highlighting Qatar’s growing leadership in urban innovation. Moreover, the Expo connected global experts to explore technology-driven solutions for sustainable city development.
Ricard Zapatero, CEO of Fira Barcelona International, praised Qatar for advancing smart city ecosystems and linking international innovation networks. He also emphasized the value of hosting the Expo alongside Mobile World Congress, creating synergy between two major technology platforms.
“This edition in Doha celebrates a fantastic programme with a strong focus on smart cities,” Zapatero said. Furthermore, many previous exhibitors joined the larger conference, allowing organizers to concentrate on delivering a world-class agenda.
The Expo featured 50 sessions with global experts, including keynotes from H E Reem Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Affairs at Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. In addition, sessions covered connected infrastructure, smart governance, digital innovation, and urban services.
Zapatero noted the event emphasizes broader urban themes rather than individual cities. Representatives from Lusail, Msheireb, TASMU, and MCIT shared insights on city planning, technology adoption, and citizen-focused innovations.
“Panels focused on global challenges and practical solutions that cities should prioritize,” Zapatero explained. Consequently, the event demonstrated how technological innovations improve citizens’ daily lives and urban experiences.
The Smart City Expo is part of a global network, anchored by the flagship Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona. This year, the series expands to New York, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, Mexico, and Doha, creating a worldwide ecosystem for sharing ideas, solutions, and best practices.
Additionally, institutional partners, including UN-Habitat, the World Bank, and the Smart Cities World Association, supported the Doha edition. Their involvement reinforces Qatar’s role in shaping global smart city dialogue.
As the event concluded, Zapatero reaffirmed the Expo’s mission to unite cities, innovators, and policymakers. Therefore, the goal is to ensure technological innovations enhance urban life for citizens worldwide.
Overall, Smart City Expo Doha strengthens Qatar’s reputation as a hub for sustainable urban development, innovation, and global collaboration.
