Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr. Hessa Sultan Al Jaber said that Qatar's investment in building broadband has exceeded $500m and work is underway for four smart cities.
Speaking at The Euromoney Qatar Conference, she highlighted the coordinated strategy Qatar is undertaking to provide robust technological foundations, and outlined the measures being taken to ensure that Information Communications Technology (ICT) plays a key role in the development of Qatar's knowledge-based economy.
"We are studying the intersections between technology and industry to identify where the greatest opportunities for digital transformation lie. This includes looking at disruptive innovations that could transform whole sectors, including the financial sector. Qatar is reviewing the potential of mobile payment capabilities, online banking services and crowd-funding models to support economic growth," said Dr Hessa Al Jaber.
She said that Qatar is fully aware of the importance of an advanced communications technology sector in view of the role assigned to this sector in building the knowledge economy and improve the quality of life of all residents. Qatar has made great strides in the development of digital potential for the development of supporting industries to diversify sources of national income, she said.
She added that the contribution of telecom and IT sectors has doubled during 2010-2013 period.