International quantum hackathon showcases innovative solutions

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has concluded the first international quantum themed hackathon in Qatar,...

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has concluded the first international quantum-themed hackathon in Qatar, titled ‘The BIG Quantum Hackathon Qatar 2025.’ The event, held from November 15 to 18 brought together global talent for an intensive four-day innovation challenge aimed at advancing practical applications in quantum technologies.

The Ministry announced the winning teams yesterday, recognising the most innovative and impactful quantum solutions. The top teams were celebrated for their creative approaches to solving real-world national use cases, demonstrating the potential of quantum technologies to address complex challenges across sectors. Several officials including Amna Al Kaabi, Head of Emerging Technologies at MCIT and Capt. Eng. Hazzaa Rashid Ali Al-Ahwal, Director of Frequencies and Secure Communications at the Ministry of Defence took part.

The landmark hackathon attracted 474 applications from 64 countries, out of which only 40 international students and 40 students from Qatar were selected. These 80 participants were divided into eight teams, each tackling one of eight real-world use cases, supported by eight technology providers and stakeholders from across Qatar’s innovation ecosystem.

According to Dr. Elvira Shishenina, Co-Founder and President of QuantX, the hackathon was designed to address real national challenges using quantum-enabled solutions. 

“We reached out to representatives of the main stakeholders in the country and asked them what challenges they face,” she explained.