The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) is set to host the inaugural ‘BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025’ from November 15 to 18 at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Education City, Doha. The event, organized under the patronage of the Ministry of Defense and supported by QuantX and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), aims to bring together experts and talents to explore the potential of quantum computing.
The hackathon is a two-phase competition that focuses on technical innovation and the development of viable business models. The first phase involves developing solutions using advanced quantum computing platforms, while the second phase emphasizes transforming the results into commercially viable projects through evaluation and collaboration with investors and experts.
Quantum Computing Innovation
The BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025 is designed to empower the next generation of researchers and engineers to harness quantum computing in developing practical solutions to national challenges, according to Eman Al Kuwari, Director of the Digital Innovation Department at MCIT. The event aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, reinforcing the country’s position as a regional hub for emerging technologies and applied research.
The competition will feature a distinguished panel of international quantum computing experts, who will evaluate the teams’ projects and provide feedback. The qualified teams will advance to the commercial application and market-fit phase, where they will collaborate with investors and consultants to assess the economic feasibility of their proposed solutions.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
The hackathon is a collaborative effort between MCIT, HBKU, and other knowledge partners. Dr. Saif M. Al-Kuwari, Associate Professor at HBKU and Director of the Qatar Center for Quantum Computing (QC2), stated that the event aligns with HBKU’s commitment to promoting innovation and research that addresses national priorities. The partnership is expected to drive innovation and advance Qatar’s position in the field of quantum computing.
Staff Major General Zayed Ahmed Al-Kuwari, Commander of Qatar Emiri Signal Corps, emphasized the importance of the hackathon in enhancing Qatar’s national research and innovation system. The event is expected to inspire students and contribute to the country’s digital transformation, according to the ministry.
Transforming Emerging Technologies into Real-World Solutions
The BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025 is part of MCIT’s efforts to transform emerging technologies into scalable, real-world solutions that contribute to building national capabilities and driving sustainable economic growth. The event is expected to foster collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, promoting the development of innovative solutions that address national challenges.
As the hackathon approaches, participants are expected to develop innovative solutions using quantum computing. With the event’s focus on commercial viability and market fit, the winning teams are likely to receive support and investment to turn their ideas into practical projects. The outcome of the hackathon is expected to be announced on November 18, with the official award ceremony scheduled to take place on the same day.
For more information on the BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025 and its objectives, visit the MCIT website. The event is expected to be a significant step in Qatar’s journey towards becoming a hub for quantum computing innovation.
