Country Profile
From The Report: Qatar 2019
View in Online Reader

Since gaining independence in 1971 Qatar has quickly risen to prominence both regionally and internationally to become an economic, political and cultural powerhouse in the Middle East. With a relatively small local population and substantial revenues generated from having the third-largest proven natural gas reserves globally, Qatar boasts one of the world’s highest GDP per capita, according to IMF estimates. Prior to 2010 the country was primarily known for its large gas reserves; however, Qatar’s global profile received a major boost when it won the bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Now, the country is recognised in the international arena for many reasons, including its push for domestic infrastructure projects. This chapter contains a viewpoint from HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar; and an interview with Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Open doors: Maintaining cultural identity while welcoming businesses and workers from around the world
OBG
plus

Since gaining independence in 1971 Qatar has quickly risen to prominence both regionally and internationally to become an economic, political and cultural powerhouse in the Middle East. With a relatively small local population and substantial revenues generated from having the third-largest proven natural gas reserves globally, Qatar has one of the world’s highest GDP per capita: $72,700 at current prices in 2019, according to IMF estimates. Prior to 2010 the country was primarily known…

Viewpoint

Collective prosperity: HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, on pursuing international cooperation to ensure peace and stability
OBG
plus

Viewpoint: HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani The world faces significant political, economic and security threats, and challenges that do not respect the national borders of countries and put to the test the UN as a framework for collective security. If the international community wants to achieve security and stability in the world, it should go beyond managing crises and seek comprehensive and just solutions in accordance with the provisions of international law and international resolutions.…

Analysis

Digital determination: ICT applications are the driving force behind the transition to a knowledge-based economy
OBG
plus

The rapid pace of technological evolution has seen the applications of the internet grow exponentially. Originating as a specialised military technology, digital connectivity has now become a part of the social and economic infrastructure in nearly all world economies. This widespread use of technology is bringing about the Fourth Industrial Revolution, comparable in its economic impact to the invention of the steam engine, which launched the first industrial revolution. As a country looking…

Interview

Competitive advantage: Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, on the strong investment environment and growing international ties
OBG
plus

How is the international relations strategy evolving to strengthen commercial ties with potential markets, and what are the related opportunities? SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN NASSER BIN KHALIFA AL THANI:Qatar’s total investment in the US and Europe is about $135bn. We also have large investments in Asia, estimated at about $30bn, including $10bn in China. In Russia, our investments amount to approximately $13bn. Qatar also has longterm strategic plans to develop trade relations with the…

Analysis

Setting up shop: New investment legislation and incentives target specific sectors
OBG
plus

A number of significant developments related to foreign direct investment (FDI) set to be implemented by the end of 2019 will further strengthen Qatar’s appeal as a destination for international investors. Expected developments include the opening of two special economic zones (SEZs), changes to foreign investment legislation and the launch of a substantial incentive programme by the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). The announcements reflect the country’s push to increase its levels of…

Overview

Business Barometer: Qatar CEO Survey:
OBG
plus

The resilience of Qatar’s economy has been put to the test not only by the rapid fall in commodity prices that took place from June 2014, but also by the political and economic blockade that was imposed by some neighbouring countries in June 2017. It is therefore significant that in the OBG Business Barometer: Qatar CEO Survey for 2019, the general consensus in the local business community is that Qatar has not only absorbed these setbacks, but is poised for further growth. Over 100 CEOs were interviewed for the survey, 84% of whom were either positive or very positive about local business conditions for the coming 12 months. However,…