MWC25 Doha: Experts Highlight Importance of Data Sovereignty for AI Development

Doha, November 25 (QNA) - IT experts and academics have highlighted the critical need for widespread access to data for artificial intelligence, describing it as both an economic resource and a key geopolitical asset.
Addressing a panel on the sidelines of MWC25 Doha, the speakers covered topics spanning cloud services, smart cities, and cross-border AI models.
Sami Al Shammari, Assistant Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Operations at Qatar's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, said data sovereignty is a major challenge amid rapid technological change, with accompanying political and legal considerations. He added that the ministry is working to provide the latest technologies and infrastructure to government entities while maintaining control over local data.
Al Shammari outlined key approaches, including developing infrastructure and projects within Qatar to comply with local laws, utilising Qatari companies for advanced internet services, and accessing international services, such as AI technologies, to support digital transformation.
On data classification and cybersecurity compliance, he noted that the National Cybersecurity Agency sets policies and guidelines, while each entity is responsible for classifying, storing, and managing its data securely - whether on local servers, international services, or Qatari missions abroad. He said digital security ensures adherence to approved policies, with data encrypted and access restricted to authorised personnel.
He added that the ministry is formulating national policies to guide government entities on using digital infrastructure and setting standards for service providers to ensure compliance with technical and security regulations. The aim is to balance advanced services for the government sector with national data protection.
Al Shammari emphasised that, although some processes may take longer than expected, Qatar is committed to building a secure, reliable, and future-ready infrastructure. AI networks and platforms are now increasingly integrated and relied upon more than in the past, he added, noting that data classification remains crucial yet challenging for many datasets.
Manwhile, Mohamed Ali Al Ghaithani, CEO of Meeza, highlighted the importance of data security, saying it allows the state to maintain full control over its data and grant access only to authorised personnel. He outlined the evolution of cloud computing over the past 60-70 years, initially available only to countries with advanced technical capabilities.
Al Ghaithani said Meeza has followed these developments for 17 years, offering cloud services that empower countries to deliver services while maintaining full control of their data. He stressed that, although AI is not yet massive in scale, integrating it within data centres can improve customer services, reduce processing times, and enhance quality.
He added that data centres are a fundamental component of any state or industry and will become a cornerstone for national growth. AI requires substantial computing power, making it essential to strengthen efforts to support Qatar's digital ecosystem and provide high-quality services to customers. (QNA)