Interview: Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani, CEO, Qatar Free Zones Authority, on boosting investment and sustainable growth through the expansion of key sectors
How has the regulatory landscape evolved to create a more investor-friendly environment?
SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN HAMAD BIN FAISAL AL THANI: Qatar has taken significant steps to improve its investment climate through regulatory reforms emphasising openness, diversification and innovation. As part of the Third National Development Strategy for 2024-30, a legislative review is underway that spans 27 laws across 17 ministries. This aims to streamline business operations and improve legal clarity and administrative efficiency. New legislation is expected to facilitate private sector participation and enhance mechanisms for shared risk in major projects. In the free zones, national reforms are complemented by specific measures that include 100% foreign ownership, long-term tax exemptions, streamlined licensing and Customs facilitation. These regulatory improvements align with Qatar’s target of attracting $100bn in cumulative foreign direct investment by 2030 and reflect the broader shift toward a private sector-led economy.
What strategies are positioning logistics, manufacturing and technology as drivers of growth?
AL THANI: Qatar is developing integrated industrial areas where logistics, advanced manufacturing and technology firms can operate in tandem. These areas are designed to support sectoral specialisation, innovation and efficiency. Their integration with key infrastructure like Hamad International Airport and Hamad Port provides efficient supply chain connectivity. These zones are focused on building industry clusters that support sustainable mobility, precision manufacturing and emerging technologies. Recent developments include electric vehicle assembly, aerospace engineering and collaborations with international tech firms.
In what ways is sustainability being integrated into sectoral investment strategies?
AL THANI: Sustainability is a central element in developing and managing industrial areas in Qatar. All new infrastructure is built to align with the Global Sustainability Assessment System. Investment strategies are aligned with national climate goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 and expanding renewable energy capacity. There is a particular focus on attracting investment in sectors like renewable energy manufacturing, electric mobility, sustainable construction materials and green logistics.
To what extent are trade connectivity and partnerships enhancing Qatar’s role in global supply chains?
AL THANI: Qatar seeks to capitalise on its location as global trade patterns evolve. With access to high-capacity ports, airports and logistics centres, Qatar is enhancing both physical and digital infrastructure to connect to global supply chains. Bonded logistics zones, value-added services and digital trade platforms support aerospace logistics, pharmaceutical cold-chain distribution and high-tech assembly. Partnerships with multinational logistics providers and trade facilitation initiatives are helping to create business corridors that link Qatar to major global markets, strengthening its role in cross-border trade and industrial collaboration.
How are technological advancement and infrastructure development shaping investment trends?
AL THANI: Key technology-focused developments in Qatar’s industrial areas include 5G-enabled logistics, artificial intelligence-based (AI) Customs systems, internet of things-driven energy management and digital platforms for business operations. The development of technology-focused entities such as the Google Cloud Centre of Excellence and the forthcoming Quantiphi AI centre are key to this strategy. At the same time, green mobility and aerospace are incorporating automation, robotics and sustainable production methods. The goal is to build a technology-driven industrial base that contributes to national growth while positioning Qatar as a regional leader in next-generation manufacturing.
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