Google Cloud expands reach introducing New Cloud Region in Doha

Google Cloud recently announced the opening of its Doha cloud region, marking a significant milestone in Qatar's digital transformation. The launch event was attended by Qatari Cabinet ministers and executives from leading Qatari businesses, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Qatar Free Zone Authority (QFZ).

The new cloud region aims to meet the growing demand for cloud services in Qatar and the Middle East while supporting Qatar's National Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the country into a digital economy through innovation and digitalisation.

A research study conducted by Access Partnership on behalf of Google Cloud reveals that the Doha cloud region is projected to drive increased economic activity. It is estimated to contribute a cumulative $18.9 billion in higher gross economic output to Qatar's economy between 2023 and 2030 and create 25,000 jobs by 2030. This investment follows Google Cloud's recent establishment of a country office and virtual centre of excellence (CoE) in Msheireb.

Google Cloud's ongoing investments in infrastructure and resources reflect its commitment to playing a pivotal role in advancing Qatar's digital future and technological capabilities.

The MCIT and the Qatari government have played a crucial role in fostering cloud growth across the government sector by adopting cloud policies that facilitated Google Cloud's entry into the market. Mr. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasised that the launch of the first Google Cloud region aligns with Qatar's comprehensive vision for achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

The establishment of a robust digital infrastructure with internationally agreed standards and policies will lead Qatar towards a more efficient digital economy, benefiting various sectors and improving quality of life.

H.E. Ahmad Al Sayed, Minister of State and Chairman of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), stated that the launch of the new Google Cloud region is a significant milestone in the growing partnership between QFZ and Google Cloud. QFZ's role in introducing disruptive technologies and advanced digital infrastructure, along with the provision of world-class cloud services, will further accelerate Qatar's digital transformation and the realisation of its national vision.

The strategic collaboration agreement between QFZ and Google Cloud, announced in 2020, paved the way for Google Cloud's presence in Qatar. QFZ's continued support, including the launch of the Center of Excellence, has facilitated the growth of Qatar's technology ecosystem.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, expressed excitement about Google's Cloud region in Qatar, emphasising the opportunity for joint innovation and leveraging Google's rich cloud services. Qatar Airways aims to enhance its renowned customer service and operational efficiencies through AI/ML-driven data insights. The presence of Google Cloud in Qatar will facilitate data-driven predictive maintenance and ensure secure data residency.

Al Jazeera Media Network's Executive Director of Technology & Network Operations, Ahmed AlFahad, expressed delight in leveraging Google Cloud's new cloud region in Qatar. The collaboration has enabled Al Jazeera to deliver value-added services to global news readers, leveraging real-time insights to improve news coverage and engagement.

The newly established Doha region is seamlessly integrated into Google Cloud's extensive global network, comprising 37 regions and 112 zones, enabling the delivery of cloud services to over 200 countries and territories worldwide. This expansion brings a range of high-performance, low-latency services and products to customers of all scales, catering to diverse entities such as public sector organisations, large enterprises, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as startups in Qatar and the wider Middle East region.

One of the notable advantages for organisations operating in this region is the implementation of robust controls that ensure the utmost security, data residency, and compliance standards. This includes meeting specific data storage requirements, allowing businesses to operate with confidence and adhere to stringent regulations and policies governing their data management.