On how private sector leadership is shaping Qatar’s next phase of growth
What role do you see for private health care providers in developing specialised clinics and boosting medical tourism offerings?
SHEIKH FAISAL BIN QASSIM AL THANI: The private sector plays a vital role in strengthening Qatar’s health care system and we are seeing a clear and growing contribution in this area. There has been significant investment in hospitals, specialised medical centres and support services – all of which are helping to build more resilient, responsive and future-ready health care infrastructure. What is particularly encouraging is the clear shift towards delivering high-quality, specialised care that meets international standards. This reflects a genuine commitment from private investors to enhance the level of health care available across the country.
The government’s continued prioritisation of health care, as seen through increased budget allocations, signals a strong national drive to improve quality of life. At the same time, it creates real opportunities for the private sector to take on a more active role, particularly through public-private partnerships that bring innovation and efficiency to the table. The planned national health insurance scheme is another crucial step in this process. It will improve access, expand coverage, and drive further growth and innovation across the private health care landscape. We are also seeing great momentum in digital health. Qatar’s focus on digital transformation is opening up exciting investment opportunities, especially in artificial intelligence-driven diagnostics, telemedicine and smart treatment solutions. Importantly, both the public and private sectors are advancing in parallel and that is key. More and more, patients are receiving world-class care here in Qatar; there is far less need to travel abroad for treatment. Lastly, we are fortunate to have strong academic institutions producing highly skilled medical graduates. This ensures a steady talent pipeline that is ready to support and lead the next phase of health care development in the country.
In what ways can Qatar’s manufacturing and industrial sectors contribute more proactively to the national sustainability agenda?
SHEIKH FAISAL: The industrial sector is pivotal in advancing sustainability goals, particularly through adopting cleaner production technologies and efforts to minimise waste. Today sustainability is no longer just a global expectation; it is becoming a practical and strategic priority for manufacturers in Qatar. Investing in solar energy to power factories and industrial facilities is now more feasible than ever, both economically and technologically.
This shift is reducing operational costs and contributing to national efforts in energy diversification and emissions reduction. We are also seeing real progress in implementing circular economy principles. Practices like reusing materials and recycling industrial waste are gaining momentum, turning what was once considered waste into valuable resources. Another key area is local value chain development. Strengthening local supply chains reduces reliance on imports and significantly lowers the carbon footprint, while contributing to national self-sufficiency – one of Qatar’s key strategic goals.
How might private hospitality investors build on Qatar’s 5.1m international visitors in 2024 – a 25% increase over the previous year – to develop niche tourism experiences and boutique accommodations beyond event-driven demand?
SHEIKH FAISAL: This surge in visitor numbers speaks volumes about the country’s growing appeal as a global destination. Such momentum offers a real opportunity for private hospitality investors to go beyond event-related demand and help shape a more varied and resilient tourism landscape.
With high-quality infrastructure in place, including one of the most advanced and well-connected airports globally, it is only natural that we are seeing rising numbers of visitors. In addition, the recent developments across the country have significantly broadened Qatar’s leisure offerings, with everything from cultural landmarks and museums to family attractions and an evolving culinary scene.
As investors, we have the chance to build on this by creating boutique accommodations and specialised tourism experiences that meet the changing expectations of today’s travellers. There is great potential in areas such as cultural tourism, wellness and eco-friendly retreats, and desert-inspired luxury stays – all of which offer something unique and authentic. Qatar’s winter weather is another significant advantage. With its mild climate, it becomes an ideal escape for visitors looking to enjoy rich and genuine experiences during the cooler months elsewhere.
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