Interview: Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Secretary General, National Planning Council (NPC), on translating Qatar National Vision 2030 into a resilient and adaptive development model
In balancing Qatar’s long-term strategic objectives, by what means does the NPC ensure policymaking remains agile and responsive?
AL KHALIFA: The NPC serves both as the architect of the Third National Development Strategy (NDS-3) and the orchestrator of its execution. Long-term national objectives remain anchored in Qatar National Vision 2030, but implementation priorities are continuously recalibrated based on evolving conditions and risks. This ensures that while the strategic direction is preserved, execution timelines, sequencing and resource allocation can be adjusted to respond to regional and global developments. Integrated planning, scenario modelling and continuous performance monitoring support this balance, enabling faster and more informed decision-making without compromising sustainability, competitiveness or diversification goals.
To what extent was resilience integrated into the broader design of the NDS-3?
AL KHALIFA: Resilience was embedded into the NDS-3 from the very beginning through a planning model that emphasises diversification, fiscal sustainability, food and energy security, digital transformation and institutional coordination. The strategy is countercyclical, supporting growth during stable periods and fortifying the country’s ability to absorb shocks, maintain continuity, and adapt to changing global and regional conditions. This is reflected in its focus on scenario planning, early risk identification, supply chain resilience, private sector enablement and cross-government execution mechanisms that allow priorities to be adjusted without losing sight of long-term objectives. This ensures that national development remains on course even under pressure.
What role do data and scenario modelling play in supporting decision-making across government?
AL KHALIFA: Effective decision-making depends on connecting data, foresight and execution within a single system. For this reason, the NPC integrates future foresight, national data and statistics, and policy coordination under one institution. Data and scenario modelling play a central role in strengthening government planning by enabling institutions to anticipate risks, evaluate policy impacts and monitor implementation in real time. Artificial intelligence-supported tools and predictive modelling capabilities are being adopted to improve policy evaluation and help entities respond more quickly to changing conditions. Combined with integrated national data platforms and performance monitoring systems, this approach fosters proactive, evidence-based decision-making and supports stronger coordination, resilience and long-term planning. By harnessing critical data and foresight, Qatar is building a more adaptive and future-ready governance model.
How have past crises shaped the implementation of the NDS-3 and in what ways does cross-government coordination play a role in preparations?
AL KHALIFA: Qatar’s experience navigating crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic, global supply chain disruptions and periods of geopolitical volatility reinforced the importance of institutional agility, digital readiness and coordinated decision-making. During the pandemic, digital government services were accelerated, supply chain continuity mechanisms were strengthened and real-time monitoring capabilities were enhanced. These lessons directly influenced the implementation model of the NDS-3, which places strong emphasis on early intervention, scenario planning and performance monitoring. Cross-government coordination has been central to this approach. The strategy was developed through a highly collaborative model involving more than 20 sector teams with over 600 officials and representatives from the private sector and academia. This approach continues into implementation, ensuring faster coordinated decision-making, corrective action and continuity during periods of risk and uncertainty.
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