Qatar has made significant progress in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024, moving from the 78th place to the 53rd among 193 countries. The index measures the success of governments in utilizing e-services to improve the lives of individuals and companies, as well as evaluating the overall development of e-governments worldwide. This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of various government entities in Qatar, including the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the National Planning Council, and the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA).
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in conjunction with other government entities, has implemented 29 integrated projects across six main pillars in order to position Qatar in the top rankings of the index by 2030. This is aligned with the Digital Agenda 2030, aimed at developing an advanced, sustainable digital infrastructure and achieving comprehensive digital transformation to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of online services in Qatar. The progress made in the EGDI for 2024 is a testament to the ongoing efforts to improve Qatar’s digital infrastructure and boost telecommunications efficiency in the country.
The Director of the Information Systems Department at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education highlighted the impact of digital initiatives in improving access to educational services and providing integrated digital services to students. Projects are underway to enhance technological infrastructure and promote digital services to strengthen students’ capabilities and digital skills, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4. These efforts have contributed to Qatar’s advancement in the EGDI.
The Communications Regulatory Authority has played a crucial role in shaping Qatar’s digital future by establishing robust regulatory frameworks, expanding advanced telecommunications networks, and strengthening digital infrastructure. This has significantly enhanced the quality of e-services for citizens and residents, furthering the national vision of universal digital transformation. Collaboration among government entities in formulating national policies and strategies has contributed to building an advanced digital infrastructure supporting sustainable digital transformation in Qatar.
Qatar’s continuous efforts to adopt digital technologies aim to provide information and services online, automate operations, drive economic progress, and build more effective relations with individuals and institutions. The implementation of digital initiatives by various ministries has accelerated progress, supported by collaborative efforts with government entities. The advancements in the Human Capital Index and Telecommunication Infrastructure Index are a reflection of these efforts to improve Qatars ranking in international indices, driven by enhancing digital education and skills development, as well as expanding communications infrastructure and improving internet quality.
In conclusion, Qatar is poised to achieve further progress in the EGDI in the coming years, particularly with the launch of the Digital Agenda 2030. This comprehensive strategy aims to develop a cutting-edge digital government, provide transparent and user-friendly digital services, build secure and sustainable digital infrastructure, and enhance community competitiveness in the digital world. The EGDI report by the UN assesses governments based on their ability to provide advanced digital services, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to digital transformation and continued efforts to improve its global rankings in digital development.