At the recent Web Summit Qatar 2026, TikTok showcased its commitment to enhancing knowledge sharing and celebrating creativity within Qatar’s burgeoning digital landscape. A key highlight of their participation was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government Communications Office of Qatar (GCO). This collaborative effort aims to establish a multi-year program to identify and support global creative talent.
The MoU, signed by Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, the Director of the GCO and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Qatar Organising Committee, along with Kinda Ibrahim, Regional General Manager at TikTok for the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia, sets the foundation for an annual initiative over three years that seeks to nurture international creators across various sectors. This partnership underscores a shared goal of empowering creative communities and expanding creators’ influence.
Sheikh Jassim remarked, “Our ongoing collaboration with TikTok exemplifies our mutual commitment to fostering sustainable value for creators. Qatar is dedicated to providing the space, infrastructure, and support necessary for both regional and international talent to innovate and reach wider audiences. This aligns with Qatar’s strategic vision for innovation and economic diversification as outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030.”
During the summit, TikTok welcomed over 50 prominent international creators to Doha, boasting a total global following of more than 156 million. These creators engaged in various Web Summit sessions and participated in an exclusive program focused on creativity, culture, and collaboration. One standout moment of the week was the Global Creative Excellence Gala Dinner at the Four Seasons Doha, which brought together creators, partners, and industry leaders to discuss storytelling, cultural exchange, and the significant role of digital platforms in elevating global ideas.
TikTok’s presence at Web Summit was designed to align with the host nation’s values, emphasising how creativity, community, and ambition can thrive in nurturing environments and achieve global reach. The event illustrated the journeys of creators, the influence of communities on cultural development, and how brands can effectively engage customers through discovery-driven strategies.
Additionally, TikTok addressed topics surrounding innovation and business growth, featuring Shadi Kandil, the General Manager for Global Business Solutions in the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, and Central and South Asia, who participated in a fireside chat. This session delved into how brands can integrate AI-powered tools, such as Smart+ and Symphony, alongside human creativity to enhance storytelling, boost performance, and achieve tangible results while prioritising human-led strategic decisions.
Kandil stated, “Qatar serves as a key hub for creativity, culture, and innovation on both regional and global levels. Like TikTok, it is a fertile ground for ideas, where brands are developed, and stories transcend boundaries. Our efforts during Web Summit aimed to unify creators, partners, and discussions, reinforcing our commitment to supporting creative communities, fostering meaningful exchanges, and driving lasting development in the region.”
As a backdrop to TikTok’s initiatives, engagement in Qatar’s creator economy has risen significantly. In 2025, the country saw a remarkable 110% year-on-year increase in content consumption, while content creation surged by 150% in the same period. This growth signifies a vibrant and evolving creator ecosystem, further solidifying Qatar’s status as a global hub for ideas, culture, and digital collaboration.
