QFEX 2026 Opens in Doha with Strong Government, Diplomatic and International Participation
Dr. Khaldoun Nusair raises a defining question: Who is leading whom — humanity or artificial intelligence?
Doha, Qatar – AFAQ News
The third edition of the Qatar Financial Markets, AI & Digital Assets Expo (QFEX 2026) commenced at Hilton Doha with strong participation from Qatari government institutions, public and private sector organizations, diplomatic missions, and international delegations from Oman, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, Cyprus, and several European countries.
The opening ceremony began with the Qatari National Anthem, followed by a keynote address delivered by Dr. Khaldoun Nusair, Chairman of AFAQ Events Management Qatar, who raised thought-provoking questions about the future relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence, the ability of governments and institutions to keep pace with rapid technological advancement, and the importance of keeping people at the center of economic and technological transformation.
The ceremony also featured an address by H.E. Dr. Wajih Owais, representing the Jordanian Senate, and a speech by Dr. Amir, Chairman of JTA Holding.
The first day brought together distinguished speakers, industry leaders, and international experts to explore the future of the intelligent economy, AI-driven financial transformation, digital payments, emerging technologies, and the evolving relationship between technology and human development.
Among the highlights was the fireside conversation, “Leadership in the Intelligent Economy: Technology, Institutions & Human Progress,” featuring Dr. Khaldoun Nusair and Firas Al-Bdeiri, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Qatar. The discussion addressed the growing influence of technology companies, the ability of governments to regulate artificial intelligence, and the implications of AI for human roles, employment, migration, and sustainable development.
Other sessions examined the reinvention of banking and payments through AI, the infrastructure of the AI-powered economy, and the future of jobs and human skills. The programme also featured the regional Startup World Cup competition in collaboration with Pegasus Tech Ventures.
A Strong Exhibition Presence
Alongside the conference, QFEX 2026 featured a dedicated exhibition bringing together a distinguished group of financial services companies, including established industry participants with strong reputations among their peers.
The exhibition attracted notable interest from delegates, investors, and business representatives, providing a platform for participating companies to showcase their services, engage with industry stakeholders, explore business opportunities, and strengthen regional and international partnerships.
The combination of high-level conference discussions and a vibrant exhibition floor reinforced QFEX’s role as a meeting point for the financial, technology, and investment communities.
QFEX 2026 continues on Wednesday, September 30, with further discussions on the future of capital markets, digital assets, responsible AI, financial inclusion, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.
