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Randa Benazzouz told Gulf Times on the sidelines of Maker Faire Rome that establishing structured channels for hardware testing and investor collaboration could boost Qatar’s standing as a hub for regional technology expansion. She explained that bringing working hardware prototypes into direct contact with Qatari institutions creates commercial clarity that software discussions alone cannot deliver. Seeing a working prototype gives people a tangible and immediate understanding of its value, according to Benazzouz, who has more than 10 years of experience in Qatar’s technology sector. Rather than asking them to imagine how an idea might function or benefit them based solely on a verbal explanation, a prototype allows them to experience its potential firsthand, she added.
The entrepreneur stressed that participants should aim to leave such events with one or two concrete pilot proposals, named partners, and a clear next step for each delegate. Benazzouz noted that specific technologies showcased at Maker Faire Rome offer direct applications for Qatar. She highlighted an agricultural drone designed by Italian startup Studio 5T to extend network connectivity in remote areas as one solution that could support Qatari farms and desert sites.
Benazzouz’s remarks align with recent high-level efforts to expand bilateral technology cooperation. Italian Minister Adolfo Urso met his Qatari counterpart Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai in Doha earlier this month to discuss partnerships in artificial intelligence, data centres, quantum computing, advanced robotics and the digitalisation of production systems, according to a report by Il Sole 24 Ore. The ministers sought to link the innovation ecosystems of both countries and open fresh investment opportunities in strategic sectors.
An operational task force was established with Qatar Investment Authority chief executive Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi to accelerate identification and implementation of new Qatari investments in Italy, the Italian newspaper reported. The initiative extends the sovereign wealth fund’s presence into Made in Italy industries, critical raw materials, AI, data centres, quantum computing and advanced robotics. Preceding technical talks involved representatives from Italian financial operators including FSI, Tamburi Investment Partners and SACE.
Italian companies have maintained a significant footprint in Qatar, with manufacturing, energy, medical technologies, robotics and fintech identified as key areas for further development during Urso’s discussions with Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, president of the Qatari Businessmen Association. Trade between the two nations has grown steadily, supported by more than 350 Italian firms active across various Qatari sectors, according to statements from Qatari officials. The recent engagements build on Italy’s institutional participation at events such as Web Summit Qatar, where Italian startups sought partnerships in innovation and high-value industries.
Benazzouz advocated that the measured approach of focusing on tangible prototypes and defined follow-up steps would help translate high-level agreements into practical outcomes on the ground. Her comments reflect a broader push to move beyond conceptual software talks toward deployable hardware solutions that address specific Qatari needs in agriculture, connectivity and environmental monitoring. The entrepreneur’s perspective comes amid ongoing efforts by Italian agencies to prepare deep-tech startups for Gulf market entry and investment.
