Experts Address Challenges of Digital Twin Platforms in Doha

During the Smart City Expo Doha 2025, technology experts gathered to discuss the challenges and applications of digital twin platforms in urban infrastructure. The panel session, titled “Real-time urban digital twin platforms in action: Use cases and challenges,” was held in conjunction with Mobile World Congress 2025 in Doha, organized by GSMA and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

Examining Real-World Applications

The discussion was led by Dr. Thabiya Al Mahandi, an assistant professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University. Iman Al Kuwari, Director of Digital Innovation at the Ministry, highlighted the effective use of a cloud management system during the planning phase for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. This system, which later supported other significant events, successfully integrated data from six different entities, showcasing the power of collaboration between public and private sectors.

Al Kuwari emphasized the necessity of clear governance, defined roles, and effective coordination among stakeholders. She explained that once these foundational elements are established, the focus can shift toward leveraging technology for enhanced decision-making and an improved experience for fans. The system demonstrated its capacity to manage public transportation and crowd flow more effectively, particularly around metro stations and event venues.

Data collected from operational teams at various locations—including stadiums and fan zones—contributed to significant improvements in operational efficiency. Al Kuwari noted that the integration of artificial intelligence transformed reporting timelines drastically; what once took four days to analyze could now be completed in just 15 seconds. This remarkable efficiency highlights the value of upgrading digital capabilities in urban management.

Al Kuwari stated, “Sound decision-making requires consolidating data into a single platform that provides a unified view.” This principle underpins the ministry’s digital twin project, which aims to give both governmental and private institutions an integrated understanding of how different sectors function and make decisions.

Engagement and Community Focus

Sandra Baer, Brand Ambassador for the global platform SmartCitiesWorld, emphasized that the success of smart cities is contingent upon the engagement of all societal segments, including the private sector. This collaborative approach is crucial for fostering sustainable urban environments.

Piero Pelizzaro, Director of Public Assets and Natural Capital for the city of Vicenza, Italy, added another dimension to the discussion by differentiating between two types of digital twins. He described the physical digital twin, which focuses on infrastructure, energy, and mobility, and the community digital twin, which centers on people and the citizen experience. This distinction underlines the multifaceted nature of digital twin technology in urban planning and management.

The panel underscored that while digital twin platforms offer substantial advantages for urban infrastructure, challenges remain. Effective implementation requires a thorough understanding of the technology, robust governance frameworks, and active participation from all stakeholders involved.