PwC Middle East outlines how cloud, AI, and sovereign infrastructure are reshaping national transformation and the future of citizen-centric services.
Qatar is entering a decisive phase of its national digital journey under the National Development Strategy 3 (NDS3), a framework that is accelerating transformation across cloud, AI, data, and citizen-centric government services. The country is moving toward an integrated, ecosystem-driven model—one where multi-cloud adoption, AI-enabled operating structures, sector-wide platforms and real-time data are redefining how ministries, enterprises and public service entities operate.
This next chapter places sovereign digital infrastructure at the centre of national ambition. By strengthening locally governed cloud, AI and cybersecurity capabilities, Qatar is creating a trusted digital foundation that protects critical data, attracts global technology investment and positions the nation as a secure, innovation-ready hub for the region.
Ahmad Abuhantash – Partner, Technology Consulting, PwC Middle East spoke to Tahawultech.com about how NDS3 is reshaping digital transformation priorities, what sovereign infrastructure means for Qatar’s long-term competitiveness, and how the next generation of citizen services will be built on personalisation, trust and responsible AI.
Interview Excerpts:
How is Qatar’s shift under NDS3 reshaping the country’s digital transformation trajectory, particularly in areas such as cloud adoption, AI integration, and smart government services?
NDS3 marks an important evolution in Qatar’s digital transformation journey, bringing initiatives within a more unified ecosystem-driven approach. Under this direction, cloud adoption is accelerating as ministries and enterprises embrace and priority sectors such as transport and logistics, tourism, urban planning and infrastructure, and healthcare multi-cloud and cloud-first strategies that support agility, resilience and seamless service delivery.
AI is becoming embedded into the core of government operations and sectoral value chain as part of a broader operating model that enhances decision-making, optimises asset utilisation and supports the delivery of public services. In parallel, Qatar is advancing towards a new era of smart, connected and citizen-centric government services, while also enabling a more dynamic digital economy that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and new business models.
Through connected platforms, integrated data, sector-wide digital platforms and digital identity frameworks, the country is enhancing digital experiences and enabling more personalised interactions.
“With NDS3 as its foundation, Qatar is strengthening its ambition for an integrated, AI-enabled national transformation and a competitive, innovation-led digital economy.”
Sovereign digital infrastructure is becoming a top national priority for many governments. What does sovereign infrastructure mean in the Qatar context, and why is it essential for resilience, security, and long – term competitiveness?
In Qatar, sovereign digital infrastructure refers to nationally overseen cloud, AI, data and cybersecurity capabilities that safeguard critical digital assets. It enables sensitive government and citizen data to remain within national jurisdictions; supports AI models tailored to Qatar’s needs and ensures continuity across essential public services, while providing international investors and leading technology providers with clarity and confidence on how data is governed and protected.
Sovereign infrastructure underpins resilience and long-term competitiveness by creating a trusted environment for innovation. Investment and sustainable growth. It strengthens confidence in digital services, supports emerging technologies and helps nurture local talent, while signalling that Qatar is a safe, predictable and future-ready destination for foreign direct investment in digital and technology-intensive sectors.
By advancing sovereign capabilities across cloud, data and AI, Qatar is enhancing its position as a trusted regional hub for secure and future ready digital transformation, a launchpad for global and regional technology players, and a testbed where they can pilot, validate and scale new digital solutions in a controlled, secure and innovation-friendly environment.
As Qatar moves toward more connected, AI – enabled citizen services, what will the next generation of citizen experience look like, and how can government entities balance personalisation with trust, transparency, and data protection?
The next generation of citizen experience in Qatar will be shaped by services that are proactive, connected and personalised. Citizens will engage with integrated, AI-enabled journeys designed around their needs, offering seamless access to services across sectors. These experiences will be supported by digital identity, real-time data and intelligent platforms that make interactions simpler and more intuitive.
As these capabilities evolve, maintaining trust remains essential. Government entities will continue ensuring clear approaches to data use, strong cybersecurity and privacy safeguard, and sound governance that keeps AI systems responsible and secure.