Overview

Qatar’s strong fundamentals and regulations drive banking sector growth
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Qatar has one of the most well-capitalised and secure banking sectors in the Gulf, with its leading lender, Qatar National Bank Group (QNB Group), among the world’s largest-50 banks by market capitalisation. The sector weathered successive external challenges, from the economic contraction associated to the Covid-19 pandemic to more recent global challenges associated with fluctuations in hydrocarbons…

Overview

Islamic finance advances sustainability and governance with landmark global agreements in Qatar
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With recent years seeing strong growth in its banking, takaful (Islamic insurance) and sukuk (Islamic bonds) subsegments, Qatar’s Islamic finance sector is both a regional leader and a centre for international investors. Advances in financial technology (fintech) and the digitalisation of Islamic finance services are helping Qatar’s sharia-compliant finance sector secure a larger market share both…

Overview

Qatar’s corporate bond issuances boost capital market resilience
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Qatar’s capital markets are currently going through a time of major new initiatives, with reforms and structural improvements rolling out. These target the widening and strengthening of the existing Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), while also preparing the ground for additional capital market innovation. These steps come following 2024 witnessing strong earnings and revenue expansion for listed organisations.…

Overview

Qatar’s insurance sector expands with regulatory reforms and strong fundamentals
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Outperforming regional peers in both underwriting and return on equity, Qatar’s insurance sector is now reaping the rewards of ongoing economic and population growth. While the market remains competitive and relatively low in penetration, ongoing product innovation and improved sector governance could help unlock growth opportunities. Insurers and takaful (Islamic insurance) operators are seeing…

Overview

Qatar upgrades transport infrastructure to boost global connectivity
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Ongoing investment in Qatar’s transport sector has transformed mobility across the country over the past decade. Backed by long-term strategic planning, the government has focused on developing a comprehensive, multi-modal network that enhances connectivity. In the lead up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, significant resources were channelled into expanding transport infrastructure to accommodate the…

Overview

Qatar leverages natural gas reserves and emerging technologies for energy growth
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The year 2025 will be transitional for Qatar. While hydrocarbons profits may be slightly down from the elevated levels seen following the start of the conflict in Ukraine and major liquefied natural gas (LNG) export agreements with long-term clients such as Japan and South Korea are in their last year and need to be renegotiated, the country’s renewable energy capacity is ramping up. Moreover, once…

Overview

Qatar invests in advanced manufacturing to increase high-value exports
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Qatar is in the process of establishing itself as a regional centre for advanced manufacturing research and activities. A number of related international companies have established a presence in the country in recent years, while significant investment in petrochemicals and fertiliser production from some of the country’s leading industrial conglomerates is designed to drive sector growth and its…

Overview

Qatar’s construction sector poised for continued expansion
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Substantial public investment in a range of infrastructure projects has driven growth in Qatar’s construction and real estate sector in the decade preceding 2025. The development of several transport networks; new residential, retail and leisure spaces; and the expansion of Qatar’s industry in the lead-up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup has supported market growth. The government established new laws…

Overview

Qatar accelerates early adoption of emerging technologies
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Qatar’s leadership aims to create a knowledge-based economy supported by robust telecommunications infrastructure, a large and diverse community of scientists and a strong incubation programme for innovative start-ups. The country has designed policies to ensure these specific ingredients are in sufficient supply to fuel the required growth and development. Technologies such as artificial intelligence…

Overview

Qatar's visitor numbers up, strengthening its status as a prime destination
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Qatar’s tourism sector has emerged as one of the country’s most dynamic drivers of non-hydrocarbons-based growth, building steadily on the visibility and global exposure generated by the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In 2024 visitor numbers rose by 25% to reach 5.1m, underlining the sector’s post-tournament draw and growing international appeal. Led by Qatar Tourism, the government continues to prioritise…