iHeartMedia has been named the official podcast partner for Web Summit Qatar 2026, reinforcing its growing collaboration with the Government Communications Office of the State of Qatar (GCO).
The announcement also marks the official launch of iHeartArabi, iHeartMedia’s first dedicated slate of Arabic-language podcasts, positioning Qatar at the center of a new chapter in global audio storytelling.
The partnership underscores Qatar’s ambition to become a regional and global hub for digital media, content creation, and creative industries, while expanding iHeartMedia’s reach into one of the world’s fastest-growing podcast markets.
The third edition of Web Summit Qatar will take place February 1–4, 2026, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, bringing together a powerful mix of innovators and decision-makers from around the world.
With iHeartMedia joining as the official podcast partner, audio storytelling and live podcasting will take center stage at the event.
As part of the partnership, iHeartPodcasts will deliver extensive on-site programming, transforming Web Summit Qatar into a live audio and podcasting experience.
This setup will allow creators to record episodes in both English and Arabic, blending global perspectives with regional voices.
Web Summit Qatar 2026 will feature some of the most influential voices in global and regional podcasting, bringing mainstream appeal and industry credibility to the event.
The iHeartMedia delegation will be led by Conal Byrne, CEO of the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group, highlighting the strategic importance of the Middle East in the company’s long-term vision.
One of the most significant announcements tied to Web Summit Qatar 2026 is the official launch of iHeartArabi, a new platform dedicated to Arabic-language podcasts.
iHeartArabi is designed to:
The initiative responds to growing demand for authentic, high-quality Arabic audio content, particularly among younger, mobile-first audiences across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Qatar’s leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of the creative economy as part of its broader national development strategy.
Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office, described the partnership as a milestone moment.
“Welcoming iHeartMedia and its globally recognized podcast talent to Web Summit Qatar 2026 reflects our broader ambition to strengthen our creative economy and support the growth of creative and digital industries.
This partnership creates opportunities for knowledge exchange and empowers local talent to strengthen Qatar’s position as a hub for global media, content creation, and innovation.”
The collaboration aligns with Qatar’s long-term goals under Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes innovation, cultural exchange, and digital transformation.
The Web Summit partnership builds on iHeartMedia’s deepening presence in the Middle East.
These efforts aim to turn Qatar into a regional podcast hub serving creators across the Middle East and North Africa.
Beyond live recordings, iHeartMedia will introduce specialized masterclasses designed to nurture local talent.
In addition, iHeartMedia and GCO plan to host global industry events for creators across the region, including future Web Summit gatherings.
Podcasting continues to be one of the fastest-growing digital media formats globally, driven by:
For Arabic-speaking markets, podcasting represents an opportunity to:
iHeartArabi is positioned to play a pivotal role in this transformation.
Bob Pittman, CEO of iHeartMedia, emphasized the broader vision behind the partnership.
“At iHeart, we believe in fostering discussions that lead to creative and innovative solutions.
Our partnership with the Government Communications Office continues to expand the boundaries of podcasting and enhance the future of this medium for audiences everywhere.”
During the four-day summit, attendees can expect:
The on-site podcast studio will function as both a content hub and networking space, further integrating creators into the Web Summit experience.
The iHeartMedia–Web Summit Qatar partnership highlights a broader shift:
As Web Summit Qatar 2026 approaches, the collaboration is expected to attract global attention from creators, brands, and investors alike.
With iHeartMedia bringing live podcasts, global talent, and the launch of iHeartArabi to Web Summit Qatar 2026, Doha is set to become a focal point for the future of podcasting.
The partnership blends global media expertise with regional ambition, offering a powerful blueprint for how storytelling, technology, and culture can converge on the world stage.
