Overview

Qatar's infrastructure projects aim to consolidate growth story
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In 2014 Qatar’s real estate market officially surpassed its 2008 highs, with rapid expansion driven by a growing population, shrinking average household sizes and a shortage of available units in the residential sector. This expansion has not been painless, with rental and land price inflation putting the market, and wider economy, at risk of overheating. Determined to develop the industry…

Overview

New developments in IT put to good use in Qatar
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Tremendous economic growth over the last few decades, supported by an ambitious national vision to develop the economy into one that is knowledge-based, has helped drive significant growth in the country’s nascent IT sector. Reports from the government support this assessment, highlighting that the ICT sector is on track to record 10% annual growth to reach QR24.7bn ($6.77bn) by 2016. “Investments…

Overview

Qatar's telecoms providers expand operations
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The telecoms sector in Qatar has grown at a tremendous rate over the last decade. Mobile phones are now virtually ubiquitous across the country, while the use of other communications technologies such as smartphones, tablet computers and broadband internet connections continues to increase in popularity. Significant public sector investments have helped establish Qatar as one of the most “network…

Overview

Qatar eases restrictions on FDI to boost growth
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Qatar’s government has pursued an intensive national economic diversification strategy over the last two decades, aiming to leverage oil and gas revenues as it builds a broader economic base. In line with Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) and the National Development Strategy 2011-16, the government has prioritised tourism as one of the key sector for future growth. Qatar’s location…

Overview

Qatar establishes itself as a regional base for research and innovation
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Qatar’s national vision of transitioning towards a knowledge-based economy is rooted in developing the state as a regional and increasingly global leader in research and development (R&D). The government has gradually strengthened the human and capital resources required to achieve this goal through the transformation of its education systems and with major investments in developing an…

Overview

The education sector key to meeting Qatar's development goals
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The state’s permanent constitution enshrines education as one of the basic pillars of social progress, declaring: “The state shall ensure, foster and endeavour to spread [education].” The country’s economic boom over the last two decades has transformed the Gulf state into one of the world’s wealthiest countries, with GDP per capita estimated to be more than $93,352 in 2013, according…

Overview

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar paves the way for future events
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The state’s position as a sporting centre is forming an increasingly important part of its reputation and image. When Qatar was awarded the right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in 2010, it marked a breakthrough in sporting development not only in Qatar, but the wider MENA region. The state has hosted a wide range of high-profile international sporting events, which has paved the way for…

Overview

Qatar's broadcast and print media attract consumers beyond its borders
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Media outlets based in Qatar are increasingly prominent on the regional and international stage, but there are also intensifying efforts to develop content tailored for the Qatari market. According to a 2014 study by Northwestern University in Qatar in partnership with Doha Film Institute (DFI), across the MENA region, people spend more time consuming entertainment media than news or current…

Overview

Strong baseline indicators support growth in Qatar's retail market
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With strong foundations in a thriving economy, a young population and a maturing consumer base, Qatar’s retail sector looks set to maintain robust growth as the country continues to develop into a major regional centre for trade and commerce. Qatar is among the world’s wealthiest countries on a per capita basis, with GDP per capita estimated at $93,714 in 2013, according to the World Bank.…

Overview

More options for foreign investors open in Qatar's accountancy and tax rules
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For years, there have been three tax regimes in Qatar in which foreign investors could operate: the state of Qatar, the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), and the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP). Historically, most foreign investors have set up in the state, but recent changes are encouraging investors to reconsider. STATE OF QATAR: The main legal forms available to foreign investors operating…