The Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has officially announced the 11th edition of the Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference, set to take place from November 17 to 19, 2025, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). This premier event, held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, continues to strengthen Qatar’s position as a hub for entrepreneurial innovation and growth.
Rowad has long been recognized as a cornerstone in the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, bringing together ambitious business minds, industry experts, investors, and policymakers. This year, the conference promises to be more comprehensive, inclusive, and impactful than ever before.
Theme and Vision
Rowad 2025 carries the theme “Beyond Boundaries: Scaling, Sustaining, and Succeeding”, a message that resonates strongly with entrepreneurs striving to grow their businesses amid an ever-changing global market. The conference aims to provide strategies and insights that empower startups and established companies to thrive sustainably, leverage innovation, and overcome challenges that extend beyond local borders.
By emphasizing scalability and sustainability, QDB seeks to equip participants with practical knowledge and tools to navigate the complex business landscape. This vision aligns perfectly with Qatar’s broader national development goals, fostering economic diversification and enabling a resilient entrepreneurial community.
Strategic Partnerships
The success of Rowad is built on strategic collaborations with key stakeholders. This year, the conference is organized in partnership with the Young Entrepreneurs Club (YEC) and enjoys strong support from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at) serves as the regional partner, while QNB Group stands as the strategic sponsor.
Additional partners, including Ooredoo, Invest Qatar, Qatar Stock Exchange, and Elan Media, contribute to the event’s dynamic platform. These collaborations ensure that attendees gain access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and expert guidance essential for their entrepreneurial journey.
Conference Highlights
Exhibition and Networking Opportunities
One of the standout features of Rowad 2025 is the exhibition, which will showcase more than 120 local and international companies. Entrepreneurs will have the chance to interact with exhibitors, explore innovative products and services, and discover solutions that can help their businesses thrive.
This exhibition also doubles as a networking hub where participants can meet potential partners, investors, and clients. The value of such face-to-face interactions cannot be overstated, as they often lead to collaborative ventures and long-term business relationships.
Workshops and Panel Discussions
The conference agenda is packed with over 30 specialized workshops and 15 panel discussions spanning four key tracks: business scaling, global market integration, sustainability practices, and innovation-driven growth.
These sessions will feature more than 100 speakers and industry experts who will share their insights, experiences, and practical advice. Attendees will learn how to leverage emerging market trends, adopt sustainable business models, and embrace creative problem-solving techniques to stay ahead in competitive industries.
Pitching Arena
A major addition to this year’s Rowad is the Pitching Arena, designed to provide startups and established companies with a platform to present their ideas directly to investors. Participants will have the opportunity to secure funding, receive valuable feedback, and form partnerships that could accelerate their business growth.
The Pitching Arena encourages innovation and allows entrepreneurs to gain visibility in a highly competitive business environment, fostering a culture of ambition and strategic thinking.
Young Entrepreneurs Media Forum
The second edition of the Young Entrepreneurs Media Forum will run alongside the conference, highlighting the stories, challenges, and successes of emerging business leaders. This forum empowers young entrepreneurs to share their visions with a broader audience, enhancing their visibility and fostering a spirit of collaboration.
By focusing on youth engagement, QDB emphasizes the critical role young innovators play in driving national economic growth and contributing fresh perspectives to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Supporting National Development
QDB’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to Qatar’s national development objectives. Through Rowad, the bank provides a platform where entrepreneurs can engage with government officials, investors, and industry specialists to shape the future of business in Qatar.
Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, QDB’s Executive Director of SME Development, emphasized that Rowad 2025 will unite officials, experts, and investors to exchange ideas and explore the latest developments in entrepreneurship. He highlighted sustainability as a strategic priority that not only inspires investors but also strengthens businesses’ long-term impact.
Abdulrahman Tareq Al Emadi, Vice President of the Young Entrepreneurs Club, underscored the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial talent in Qatar. He noted that the event represents the energy, creativity, and ambition of Qatar’s youth, demonstrating that the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit is dynamic and global in reach.
Ismail Mohamed Al-Emadi, Executive Vice President of SME Banking at QNB Group, emphasized that the bank’s participation reflects its commitment to supporting innovation and knowledge-sharing. By enabling entrepreneurs to access resources, mentorship, and networks, QNB helps drive sustainable development in Qatar’s private sector.
The Role of Innovation and Sustainability
A key focus of Rowad 2025 is fostering innovation as a driver for business growth. Entrepreneurs will explore emerging technologies, digital transformation, and creative approaches to problem-solving, all of which are critical in today’s fast-paced markets.
Equally important is sustainability, which has emerged as a defining factor for successful enterprises. Participants will gain insights into environmentally responsible practices, ethical business models, and strategies for long-term financial viability. This dual focus ensures that businesses are not only profitable but also socially responsible and resilient to changing global conditions.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Beyond Borders
Rowad 2025 aims to create an ecosystem where ideas can flourish beyond geographical and industry boundaries. By bringing together local talent and international expertise, the conference provides entrepreneurs with the tools and connections needed to compete globally.
Attendees will benefit from exposure to best practices, mentorship opportunities, and insights into global market dynamics. This international perspective equips entrepreneurs with the confidence and knowledge to expand their operations, attract foreign investment, and explore new business avenues.
Conclusion
The 11th Rowad Conference is more than an event it is a movement that celebrates entrepreneurial ambition, innovation, and sustainability. By uniting thought leaders, investors, and business visionaries, QDB continues to nurture a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Qatar.
Rowad 2025 promises to be an empowering experience for all participants, providing knowledge, connections, and inspiration to take their businesses beyond boundaries. Entrepreneurs and industry experts alike are encouraged to seize this opportunity to learn, grow, and shape the future of Qatar’s business landscape.
As the country continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, Rowad serves as a catalyst for growth, collaboration, and excellence. This conference is a testament to Qatar Development Bank’s unwavering commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable entrepreneurial community that drives the nation forward.
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