Northwestern University in Qatar wrapped up a milestone engagement at Web Summit Qatar 2025, evolving from a single masterclass last year to a full-scale institutional presence featuring a dedicated stand, a digital exhibition celebrating the Media Majlis Museum's fifth anniversary, and a dynamic lineup of community presentations and expert panel discussions.
With 30 talks, seven panels, and 17 speakers, the University reinforced its role as a thought leader in global media and technology. Its specially curated three-day program brought together industry leaders, scholars, and Northwestern Qatar faculty, staff, and alumni to drive innovation, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue shaping the future of the field.
“Web Summit Qatar 2025 provided us with a unique opportunity to expand our contributions beyond academia and engage directly with the global media and technology industry,” said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar. “Our presence at this prestigious event exemplified Northwestern Qatar’s core values of excellence, collaboration, community, and sustainability. By showcasing the scholarship and creative works of our community, we were able to address critical issues shaping the future of the industry while fostering meaningful dialogue with global audiences. It’s an exciting moment for our university and a testament to NU-Q's global mission, which continues to drive impactful contributions to global conversations.”
Planning for this expanded presence began ten months in advance, led by a dedicated Working Committee, which included the Communication and Public Affairs Department, the Museum, the Artificial Intelligence and Media (AIM) Lab, and the Institute for Advanced Study in the Global South (#IAS_NUQ). A key highlight of this year’s presence was a digital exhibition documenting the Museum’s impact and initiatives since its inception. Inspired by the intricate design of circuit boards, the infographic traced the focus on diverse topics like language, identity, fairness, and the future.
Another highlight was Sound Bytes, a platform for research-backed presentations showcasing transformative ideas in media and technology. The review committee received over 30 abstract submissions, with 10 finalists selected through a rigorous three-stages of review. Each finalist was mentored by faculty and staff, including Assistant Professors João Queiroga and Dahlia El Zein, Alessandra El Chanti, admissions specialist, and Hanan Hindi, academic advisor, who helped refine their presentations.
As part of Sound Bytes, faculty, students, staff, and alumni shared their research and insights, exploring the future of media, technology, and the liberal arts. From AI in journalism to digital archives, gaming, and creative industries, these sessions tackled some of today’s most pressing conversations.
For Liellina Molla, a graduate of the Class of 2024, participating in the Sound Bytes was a chance to continue engaging with the university after graduation. “Being part of Sound Bytes at Web Summit Qatar has been a truly enriching experience. It has provided me with a unique opportunity to reconnect with my alma mater and contribute to global conversations shaping the future of media and technology. This platform has allowed me to share my journey, tell my story, and showcase my work post-graduation. I’m proud to be part of an initiative that not only amplifies my voice but also highlights the innovative spirit fostered at Northwestern Qatar.”
Another institutional programming was NU-Q Talks, which launched with Dean’s Global Forum: Web Summit Special Edition, featuring Jassim Al Khori, CEO of Media City Qatar, in conversation with Dean Kraidy. Other sessions brought together industry experts, scholars, and media practitioners in a series of panel discussions on the intersection of artificial intelligence, media, and communication. These were hosted by The Museum, the Executive Education Program, the Institute for Advanced Study in the Global South, the Artificial Intelligence Initiative, the Journalism and Strategic Communication Program, and the Communication Program.
Beyond regular programming, #IAS_NUQ showcased its programs, scholarly works, and publications while highlighting the impact of its initiatives in advancing knowledge production in the Global South. Similarly, the Executive Education Program expanded its outreach efforts and engagements with local and international organizations, offering a 50 percent special discount on its upcoming course, AI Tools for Digital Content Design, for Web Summit Qatar attendees. This limited-time offer is available until March 6, 2025, and can be redeemed through the WebSummitQatar app.
In addition, over 100 community members participated in the conference, presenting individual initiatives and contributions. Students served as ambassadors, engaging with visitors and sharing insights into Northwestern Qatar’s programs. NU-Q Views, the University’s student-run media publication, was officially accredited as a media organization at the Summit. Two students were also embedded within the Communications and Public Affairs team contributing to media coverage.
"Being embedded in the media team at Web Summit Qatar has been an invaluable experience for me," said Nousayba Fekhaoui, Class of 2025. "It’s giving me hands-on exposure to the industry, allowing me to apply the skills I’ve learned at Northwestern Qatar in a real-world setting. This opportunity to contribute to live coverage and interact with professionals from around the world is an incredible step before graduation, offering me insights into the media landscape and enhancing my understanding of the dynamic intersection between media and technology."
Over three days, Web Summit Qatar 2025 attracted nearly 30,000 delegates from more than 143 countries, with Northwestern Qatar’s presence emerging as a focal point for industry insights and meaningful dialogue. Keynote speakers included His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation. The event also featured renowned public figures such as Will Smith, Jay Shetty, and Alexandr Wang, who all contributed to the dynamic exchange of ideas at the intersection of media, technology, and communication.
Through its expanded presence, Northwestern Qatar reaffirmed its role as a thought leader in the intersection of media and technology while strengthening its global presence through interdisciplinary dialogue, knowledge exchange, and inspiring the next generation of media and communication professionals.
