Interview: Soumaya Ben Beya Dridje, Partner, Rasmal Ventures, on how government backing and emerging technologies are energising the country’s start-up ecosystem
To what extent is the venture capital (VC) ecosystem equipped to support tech-driven start-ups?
SOUMAYA BEN BEYA DRIDJE: Qatar provides a supportive environment for start-ups through strong government backing, including initiatives like Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 and Project Unicorn, which foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The availability of capital from institutions including Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and a growing network of VC funds enables start-ups to access essential funding. Qatar’s advanced infrastructure, including communication networks and smart city initiatives, offers a robust foundation for technology-driven start-ups to thrive. The business-friendly environment, with tax exemptions and streamlined regulatory frameworks through Qatar Financial Centre, further incentivises growth. Its strategic location at the crossroads of major markets ensures connectivity and access to regional and global opportunities.
In what ways can Qatar foster a more vibrant ecosystem for emerging technologies?
DRIDJE: Qatar has built a strong foundation for emerging technologies through strategic initiatives and supportive frameworks, particularly in financial technology (fintech). The Qatar FinTech Hub exemplifies this by providing accelerator programmes, mentorship and funding access, creating a collaborative space for innovation. The Qatar Central Bank has advanced this with the National Fintech Strategy and regulatory sandboxes, enabling start-ups to test financial products in a controlled environment. These efforts are bolstered by government investment in digital infrastructure.
To further strengthen this ecosystem, Qatar can enhance VC development by refining regulations, streamlining cross-border investment, expanding co-investment and anchor capital programmes, and investing in talent through education and mentorship. Encouraging collaboration among corporates, start-ups and VC, and highlighting success stories could help foster a culture of entrepreneurship. Start-up funding in Qatar has grown significantly due to strong government backing and financial sector engagement. Programmes like the Start-up Qatar Investment Programme offer up to $500,000 for early-stage and $5m for growth-stage ventures. QIA’s $1bn Fund of Funds further energises the VC space by investing in local and global funds.
Where do you see a role for emerging technologies in reshaping investment strategies and decision-making within financial and capital markets?
DRIDJE: Through algorithmic trading, real-time data and predictive analytics enable faster, liquidity-driven execution. Machine learning models enhance risk mitigation by forecasting market volatility, credit exposure and portfolio vulnerabilities, which is critical in Qatar’s stability-oriented ecosystem. Artificial intelligence-driven robo-advisors can democratise personalised wealth management, advancing economic diversification, and real-time fraud detection systems can safeguard market integrity through anomaly tracking and automated compliance.
What opportunities do you see for blockchain technology and tokenisation in improving market transparency and efficiency within capital markets?
DRIDJE: Blockchain’s immutable ledger ensures real-time auditability of transactions, mitigating fraud and fostering trust. Tokenisation would also help democratise access to traditionally illiquid assets, such as real estate or infrastructure, by enabling fractional ownership, broadening investor participation and improving market liquidity. Smart contracts automate settlement processes, slashing operational costs and timelines while minimising human error. By adopting these technologies, Qatar will be able to position itself as a regional centre for innovation, aligning with QNV 2030’s digital economy goals while attracting global investors seeking advanced, transparent and agile markets.
Read More from OBG
