In a groundbreaking move to foster digital innovation and creative talent in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar’s Government Communications Office (GCO). This partnership aims to establish the region’s first Augmented Reality (AR) Academy, as announced at the Web Summit Qatar 2025.
Empowering the Next Generation of AR Creators
The AR Academy is designed to equip aspiring developers and creators with advanced AR skills, opening new avenues in the digital landscape. This initiative aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which emphasizes building a knowledge-based economy and nurturing technological innovation. By offering structured training and development programs, the academy will serve as a launchpad for young creators, entrepreneurs, and developers eager to explore the rapidly evolving AR space.
Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the GCO and Chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organizing Committee, highlighted the strategic importance of this collaboration, emphasizing how it will help position Qatar as a leader in digital transformation and innovation. He stated that the partnership with Snap Inc. is a testament to Qatar’s commitment to creating a future-driven technological ecosystem that can compete on a global scale.
The AR Academy will provide participants with hands-on experience using AR tools, software, and hardware. It will also connect them with industry experts, offering mentorship opportunities and networking platforms. By focusing on immersive learning and practical applications, the academy will bridge the gap between traditional education and the skills needed for the digital economy.
Snap Inc.’s Commitment to AR Technology
Snap Inc. has been at the forefront of AR technology, transforming it into a tool for creativity, self-expression, and spatial computing. The company has continuously invested in AR innovations, making the technology accessible to both developers and everyday users. Currently, over 300 million people engage with AR on Snapchat monthly, with more than 85% of daily users in the MENA region interacting with AR Lenses daily. In the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, Snapchatters engaged with AI-powered Lenses over 4 billion times.
Hussein Freijeh, General Manager of Snap Inc. in the Middle East, expressed the company’s vision and commitment to AR development. He emphasized that Snap believes AR’s potential is limitless and that the technology is not just about entertainment but also about providing utility, enhancing user experiences, and enabling brands to achieve real business results. The AR Academy is another step towards realizing Snap’s vision of an interconnected, immersive digital future.
Snap Inc. has also been supporting the developer community through various initiatives, including Lens Studio, a powerful tool that enables creators to build AR experiences. By offering a structured learning environment through the AR Academy, the company aims to further democratize access to AR tools and technologies, empowering the next generation of digital creators in the MENA region.
Building a Vibrant AR Ecosystem
The success of AR technology heavily relies on a dynamic community of developers and creators. Snap Inc. recognizes that fostering an engaged ecosystem is crucial for the long-term success of AR. Globally, more than 375,000 AR creators and developers have built over 4 million Lenses using Snap’s tools. Many of these creators are also leveraging Snap’s fifth-generation Spectacles, an innovative wearable device that allows users to experience AR in real-world settings.
The AR Academy will play a vital role in expanding this ecosystem in the MENA region. It will provide an inclusive space for students, developers, and digital artists to collaborate, experiment, and push creative boundaries. The curriculum will cover a range of topics, including AR development, 3D modeling, interactive storytelling, and the business applications of AR.
Freijeh emphasized that the long-term success of AR technology requires a vibrant developer and creator ecosystem. He noted that digital transformation in the region is accelerating, and initiatives like the AR Academy will ensure that local talent is well-equipped to contribute to and benefit from this shift.
Highlights from Web Summit Qatar 2025
The MoU signing was a focal point at Web Summit Qatar 2025, where Snap Inc. showcased its latest advancements in AR technology. Attendees experienced live demonstrations of Snap Spectacles and participated in expert-led AR masterclasses, highlighting AR’s role in fostering authentic connections and digital interactions across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The event attracted tech leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the globe, with discussions centering around the impact of emerging technologies on business, society, and education. The announcement of the AR Academy was met with enthusiasm, as it represents a significant step toward integrating AR into various industries, including retail, marketing, education, and entertainment.
A Strategic Move Towards Digital Excellence
This partnership not only signifies a commitment to technological advancement but also reinforces Qatar’s position as a regional hub for digital excellence and innovation. By investing in such pioneering programs, Qatar aims to strengthen its knowledge-based economy and provide its youth with the necessary tools to thrive in a digitally transformed world.
The AR Academy will also serve as a platform for businesses to explore the potential of AR in their operations. Companies in sectors such as e-commerce, tourism, and media will benefit from the growing pool of skilled AR professionals. This, in turn, will drive job creation and economic growth in the digital sector.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with the broader global trend of integrating AR into everyday experiences. From enhancing online shopping experiences with virtual try-ons to revolutionizing remote work with interactive 3D meetings, AR is shaping the future of digital interaction. Qatar’s proactive approach in partnering with Snap Inc. ensures that the MENA region remains at the forefront of these advancements.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Snap Inc. and Qatar’s GCO to launch the MENA region’s first AR Academy marks a significant milestone in the journey toward digital transformation. By empowering the next generation of AR creators and developers, this initiative is set to unlock new opportunities and drive technological innovation across the region.
As AR continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals in the field will increase. The AR Academy will play a crucial role in preparing individuals for this future, equipping them with the expertise to create, innovate, and lead in the AR space. With Qatar’s commitment to fostering a digital-first economy and Snap Inc.’s dedication to advancing AR technology, this partnership is poised to make a lasting impact on the digital landscape of the MENA region.
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