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Feature – Himyan – The First National Payment Card in Qatar
In line with developing the country’s infrastructure for digital payments, Qatar Central Bank has launched Himyan.
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By Sarah Palmer
In line with the Third Financial Sector Strategy and developing the country’s infrastructure for digital payments, Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has launched Himyan, the first national prepaid payment cards.
The Third Financial Sector Strategy aims to build a financial market that leads regionally in innovation, efficiency and investor protection while enabling the country to unleash its full economic potential in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
QCB first announced Himyan back in November 2022 and is the first national e-card with a registered Qatari brand owned by QCB. It is named after the money bag used by merchants in ancient Arabia. The card is one of the Central Bank's pioneering national initiatives, part of ongoing efforts to develop the digital payments infrastructure that can be used to introduce new products in order to meet the growing demand for FinTech (financial technology) services. The card is a qualitative addition to e-payment solutions available in Qatar.
Additionally, Himyan aims to promote Qatari brands in the local market, and has a design based on international standards and best practices while utilising the latest technologies.
Speaking in November 2022, QCB Assistant Governor for Market Development and Innovation and Assistant Governor for Financial Instruments
and Payment Systems, HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid Al Thani, said the launch of this card is aimed at enhancing the infrastructure of electronic banking services and transforming the society into a cashless society. The target groups are all residents of Qatar, visitors and individuals who don’t have bank accounts.
It is the first national prepaid card of its type that can be used safely and securely within Qatar at all points of sale, ATMs and for local online shopping. Since March 2024, customers have been able to acquire a Himyan debit or prepaid card from one of these participating banks:
• Ahli Bank
• AlRayan Bank (previously Masraf Al Rayan)
• Commercial Bank
• Doha Bank
• Dukhan Bank (previously Barwa Bank)
• Qatar International Islamic Bank
• Qatar Islamic Bank
• Qatar National Bank
All payment transactions are conducted through point of sale devices, purchases are made from local e-commerce websites via the internet, and withdrawals and deposits are handled through ATM's.
Exchange and process financial transactions locally using the National ATM and POS Network (NAPS)
Supports contactless movements
These banks will issue Himyan cards to all existing bank account holders as well as to those without an account. Customers can apply for Himyan directly through the bank’s card issuing channels. Firsttime issuance of the card to local bank customers is offered free of charge.
Funds can be loaded onto the card from the account using internet banking, the mobile app or through any of the bank's ATMs.
Each bank will have their own limits for both prepaid and debit cards, in relation to maximum daily ATM withdrawal, maximum daily purchases and maximum balances. Only Qatari Riyal transactions are permitted – the card cannot be used outside of Qatar. Look out for special promotions between the bank and vendors, offering discounts and other benefits.
Key features and benefits of the Himyan Cards
The cards offer a number of features to enhance the user's banking and shopping experience:
• The debit card is linked to the customer's bank account – generally no minimum account balance required for issuance, but check with the bank first.
• Issuing a prepaid card does not require a minimum balance or bank account.
• There are lower transaction fees.
• First-time issuance is free of charge.
• Allows point of sale (POS) transactions, online payments through the e-commerce payments gateway (QPAY) and cash withdrawals at ATMs via the national network (NAPS).
• There are enhanced levels of protection and security when used.
Using Himyan at government entities
The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) issued an official statement in November 2024 regarding the exclusive use of the Himyan card for payments at government agencies.
According to QCB, this payment method is part of a phased digital transformation initiative that is slated to commence in February 2025. It aims to enhance the security of government transactions and lower the costs associated with payment processing.
The quality of services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors in Qatar will remain unaffected throughout this transition.
QCB added that it is closely monitoring the deployment of financial products and digital transformation initiatives in Qatar, with the public being kept up to date with information about the transition, and assurance over continued easy access to government services.
Fees for card payments in Qatar
Qatar Central Bank (QCB) lowered and unified the merchant discount rate (MDR) in May 2023, to encourage and promote the acceptance of electronic payments using cards.
MDR is the rate charged to a merchant for the payment processing of debit and credit card transactions. QCB stated that for debit cards, the MDR for micro businesses and petrol stations is 0.5% with a maximum limit of QAR50, and 1.1% for other businesses with a maximum limit of QAR110. The above rates also apply to local prepaid cards made via National ATM POS Switch (NAPS).
For payments made with the Himyan card, the MDR for micro businesses and gas stations is 0.5% with a maximum limit of QAR50; for other businesses it is 0.85% with a maximum limit of QAR85. For international credit cards, the MDR is 1.25% for micro businesses and 1% for petrol stations.
Commercial outlets not providing electronic payment services to consumers can face temporary closure. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has mandated all commercial outlets to provide an electronic payment option to customers without any additional charge for the service. The punishment for not providing an electronic payment service is closure of the commercial outlet(s) for 14 days or until they remove the violation or administrative closure is renewed.
This comes after Decision No 70 of 2022 by the Minister of Commerce and Industry amending some provisions of Decision No 161 of 2017 regarding general and special conditions of commercial, industrial and general outlets as well as those coming under its purview.
For more information regarding card payments, visit himyan.gov.qa, qcb.gov.qa, or check with the relevant bank – see Banking and Finance in this section for contact details of banks in Qatar. m
Avoid sharing your card information or PIN
Monitor your account balance periodically
Make sure to shop through safe and reliable websites
Report lost cards immediately
Choose a non-guessable PIN
Verify the required amount before completing the payment process
Avoid using public and unsecured networks
Use powerful, up-to-date security software on your devices
By Sarah Palmer
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) has drastically reduced licensing fees for home businesses and simplified procedures, to encourage expansion and investment in the local market.
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, issued Ministerial Decision No 60 of 2024, reducing the fees for services provided by the ministry to commercial, industrial, business development and consumer protection sectors, some by as much as 90%. The decision came into effect on 11 July 2024, after its publication in the Official Gazette.
The ministerial decision aims to support economic growth in the country, encourage national and foreign enterprises, and create an attractive business environment for investment.
HE the Minister stated that the decision to reduce fees is part of the ministry’s strategy aimed at enhancing the investment environment and developing the trade and industry sectors in Qatar. It aims to implement the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy 20242030, to achieve sustainable economic growth and diversification, and the development and enhancement of the business environment, as per Qatar National Vision 2030.
The decision to reduce service fees will support national enterprises and entrepreneurs, individuals and companies equally. It will allow investors to obtain high-quality services at reduced fees, enhance the competitiveness of individuals and companies to support new enterprises, and encourage investors to expand their businesses in various sectors.
A major part of the initiative is to attract more foreign investment in Qatar and boost the role of the private sector in achieving economic diversification and a sustainable economy. HE the Minister said that the ministry will continue to develop services to provide a lucrative experience for local and foreign consumers and investors, and ultimately posit Qatar as an attractive investment opportunity.
The decision has been based on studies conducted by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the business environment and investor needs. The reductions are across all the business sectors and include services like commercial registration, commercial licences, commercial agents’ registry, corporate services, investment business services, auditors, copyright and neighbouring rights, patents, protection of designs and industrial models, industrial development and quality licences.
The reduced fees will have a positive impact on the market, especially regarding services for company formation, issuance of commercial registrations, and licensing of commercial outlets.
A new commercial registration and/or licence for a single activity, and the annual renewal fee for maintaining this registration, have both been reduced from QAR10,000 to QAR500.
Commercial registration has been reduced from QAR5,000 to QAR500 and licensing fees from QAR3,000 to QAR300. Licensing renewal fees have been reduced from QAR2,000 to QAR200.
These new fees will inevitably encourage the start of many new commercial ventures in the country thanks to its affordability.
Full details about the reduced fees for services can be found online at moci.gov.qa
New categories added for home businesses
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced the addition of 48 new activities under the home projects licence, bringing the total number of activities to 63.
Designed by Freepik
Some of the new activities include: roasting and packaging nuts • tailoring and sewing men's clothing • repairing and maintaining leather products such as luggage and bags • maintaining electrical appliances • repairing document copying machines
• repairing and maintaining computers • trading dates and their by-products • trading computers and their accessories • designing and programming custom software • trading men, women and children’s clothing • trading shoes • renting travel supplies • translation activities • trading men's accessories and perfumes • designing jewellery
• photography activities • trading women's cosmetics and beauty and hair care products
• interior decoration design activities
These new activities join the existing categories, which include the preparation of Arabic sweets, making and preparing coffee, spices and seasonings, tailoring and sewing women’s clothing, and website design.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has seen a large increase in the number of applications for licences after simplifying the procedures.
In order to ease the process, licence applications can be made electronically at moci.gov.qa and by selecting 'E-services'. This will allow users to access the Single Window portal, where the applicant will need to log into the national authentication system, and select a home licence. The applicant needs to scan the electronic code to register. There will be no need for a paper application if applying online.
The applicant must produce the QID of the owner of the home, the QID of the applicant (if different), and proof that the home address under Onwani (My Address) matches with the QIDs –all buildings have a plate with this information. Other requirements include a building completion certificate or land plan, a no objection letter from the owner of the property, and a 'To Whom It May Concern Certificate' from Kahramaa.
Each and every business activity requires a separate licence, so entrepreneurs must ensure they are running their businesses legally if offering multiple services.
The licence for home-based business activities will only be issued providing there is no impact on local traffic, does not disturb neighbours, or involve the use of dangerous equipment or materials. There may be further inspection by the Ministry of Public Health for food and healthrelated licences, to protect consumers.
The Single Window initiative has extensive information about starting a business in Qatar, visit sw.gov.qa
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Bank Telephone Website
Regional Banks
Ahlibank
4420 5222 ahlibank.com.qa
Commercial Bank of Qatar 4449 0000 cbq.qa
Doha Bank 4445 6000 qa.dohabank.com
Qatar Development Bank 4430 0000 qdb.qa
Qatar National Bank 4440 7777 qnb.com
Branches of Foreign Banks
Arab Bank Qatar 4438 7777 arabbank.com.qa
Banco Santander ¥
Bank Saderat Iran
4441 4646 bsi.com.qa
BNP Paribas 4453 7115 mea.bnpparibas.com
HSBC 4442 4722 hsbc.com.qa
Mashreq Bank 4408 3333 mashreqbank.com/qatar
Standard Chartered Bank 4465 8555 sc.com/qa
United Bank Limited 4444 1314 ubldirect.com
Islamic Banks
Dukhan Bank * 800 8555 dukhanbank.com
Lesha Bank § 4448 3333 qfb.com.qa
AlRayan # 4425 3333 alrayan.com
Qatar International Islamic Bank 4484 0000 qiib.com.qa
Qatar Islamic Bank 4402 0888 qib.com.qa
Investment Banks
QInvest 4405 6666 qinvest.com
* Prev. Barwa Bank; merged with International Bank of Qatar in April 2019
# Masraf Al Rayan merged with Al Khalij Commercial Bank in November 2021; name changed in November 2024
§ Prev. Qatar First Bank; name changed in October 2022
¥ Representative office incorporated in the QFC in March 2024
Currency and Exchange
Alfardan Exchange 4453 7777
alfardanexchange.com.qa
Al Jazeera Exchange 4436 3822
aljazeeraexchangeqatar.com
Al Mana Exchange 4442 4226 almanaexchange.com
Al Sadd Exchange 4432 3334
Al Amir Street
Arabian Exchange 4443 8300 arabianex.com
Gulf Exchange 4438 3222 gulfexchange.com.qa/en
Travelex Qatar 4443 4252 travelex.qa
Unimoni Exchange 4436 5252 unimoni.com/qat
Western Union Send money online and via the app, or find a branch at westernunion.com/qa/en
Bank branches and ATMs can be widely found across the country, at malls, hotels, souqs, hospitals and petrol stations. Visitors can usually access funds in their home accounts by using their cards here, with some ATMs allowing the withdrawal of USD and Euro – check for commission or exchange rate fees. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Exchange houses provide remittance services and foreign exchange and are licensed by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). There are no exchange control regulations, but movement of money in and out of local accounts is monitored and a declaration of origin for large cash deposits may be required. Cash transactions above QAR50,000 are prohibited. The GCCNET system is a single ATM network linking all GCC point of sale switches – in Qatar this is NAPS (National ATM & POS Switch).
Branch opening hours: Generally Sunday – Thursday 7:30 am – 1 pm. Many banks have extended branch operations, particularly at malls; check the bank's website for timings and locations of branches and ATMs.
Digital branches and services: HSBC Msheireb Downtown Digital branch • QIB Video Banking via the QIB mobile app • Virtual assistants: Dukhan Bank (Rashid), Qatar Islamic Bank (Zaki)
E-payment services: QCB authorised digital payment services via the Qatar Mobile Payment system, the first instant national interoperable switch for mobile payments. Participants: Qatar National Bank • Qatar Islamic Bank • Doha Bank • Dukhan Bank • Qatar International Islamic Bank • Arab Bank • HSBC • Masraf Al Rayan • Ahli Bank • Commercial Bank of Qatar • Ooredoo Money • Infinity Payment Solutions (iPay) by Vodafone Qatar. Global digital wallet services: Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay are available and accepted in Qatar.
Himyan: QCB's first national prepaid card, accepted at all ATMs, POS and online stores. Instant payment service: Fawran fast, secure payments to individuals via Qatari mobile number or alias name. PayPal: Goods and Services only – Friends and Family is not available.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry mandates all commercial outlets in the country must provide an electronic payment service to customers without additional charges, nor impose charges for the use of debit/credit cards.
The unit of currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), divided into 100 Dirhams (Dh), issued by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). It is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of USD1 = QAR3.64.
The fifth series of notes were introduced in December 2020. A new QAR200 note joins the QAR1, QAR5, QAR10, QAR50, QAR100 and QAR500 notes. The old notes ceased to be legal tender on 31 December 2021, although the public can change the old notes at QCB for another 10 years. Banknotes incorporate security threads, as well as special features for recognition by the blind and visually impaired, and the new QAR500 note features a holographic security thread, the first in the Middle East to do so. Coins remain unchanged at Dh5, Dh10, Dh25 and Dh50.
Four GCC countries support the creation of a Gulf Monetary Union (GMU) – Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain; the UAE and Oman have withdrawn entry. The GCC Supreme Council in 2008 approved the Monetary Union Agreement and the Statute of the Monetary Council. The headquarters of the Gulf Monetary Council opened in Riyadh in 2013 with monetary union proposed later that year. Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia subsequently agreed to establish a unified central bank with currency pegged to the USD. There has been no further action since 2013.
Overseen by Qatar Central Bank (QCB), the sector comprises a number of regional, foreign and Islamic banks. State-owned Qatar Development Bank provides financing to SMEs, while QInvest focuses on investment banking, asset management and investing its own capital.
Barwa Bank and International Bank of Qatar (IBQ) signed a final agreement in August 2018 to merge the two banks, the first in Qatar's banking history, to create a Sharia-compliant financial institution. The legal merger was completed in April 2019, trading as Barwa Bank, with IBQ products converted to Sharia-compliant equivalents. Barwa changed its name to Dukhan Bank in October 2020.
In June 2020 negotiations began for another merger between Masraf Al Rayan and Al Khalij Commercial Bank (al khaliji). Masraf Al Rayan was previously involved as a third bank in the merger between Barwa Bank and IBQ. Masraf Al Rayan and al khaliji's merger agreement in January 2021 was completed in November 2021. al khaliji's business was absorbed into Masraf Al Rayan's, with the latter becoming the remaining legal entity operating in accordance with Islamic Sharia principles. Masraf Al Rayan changed its name to AlRayan Bank in November 2024.
The Cabinet has approved resolutions allowing a non-Qatari investor to own up to 100% of the capital in AlRayan Bank, Commercial Bank of Qatar, Doha Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatar National Bank, and Qatar International Islamic Bank.
A new loan-to-deposit requirement of 100% came into effect in 2018. The adoption of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 9 by QCB has strengthened the provision coverage at Qatar’s commercial banks – under the IFRS standard, banks and financial entities have to set aside
a certain proportion of profit against losses for unseen reasons. QCB set up the Supreme Emergency Committee in 2018 to monitor the day-to-day activities of financial institutions in the country, addressing emergency matters and easing the flow of work.
In December 2024, the IMF stated in its 2024 Article IV Mission to Qatar that 'The Qatar Central Bank (QCB)’s diligent policies have helped to safeguard banking sector stability. Continued vigilance to address pockets of vulnerabilities is important. Maintaining the momentum in deepening the domestic financial market is also crucial, guided by the Third Financial Sector Strategy.'
Under Law No 13 of 2012 Qatar Central Bank and the Regulation of Financial Services, QCB is deemed an autonomous corporate body, with a capital of QAR50 bn and under the direct control of The Amir. It is headed by a governor appointed by The Amir, and primary goals include financial stability, supporting developmental activities and strengthening the national economy. The law covers banks, insurance companies, exchange houses, Qatar Exchange and QFC-registered entities. Amiri Decision No 65 of 2021 appointed HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani as Governor of QCB. qcb.qa
Under Law No 13 of 2012, the Financial Stability and Risk Monitoring Committee shall study existing and future risks related to all banking, financial, insurance and stock market activities. The panel works closely with the Ministry of Finance to frame general policies.
The law provides strict penalties for anyone accepting deposits from the public without a valid licence from the banking regulator – violators can face a jail term of up to five years and/or a fine
of up to QAR5 mn. Refusing to accept the legal tender of Qatar incurs a jail term of three years and/or a fine of up to QAR5 mn, while issuing forged currency means 10 years in jail and/or a fine of QAR10 mn. Manipulating accounts incurs a prison term of up to three years and/or a fine of up to QAR200,000.
The Qatar Renminbi Centre opened in 2015 and is the first in the region to offer Renminbi (RMB) clearing and settlement, increasing financial connectivity between China, Southwest Asia and the MENA region. The centre provides access to China’s onshore RMB and foreign exchange markets to local financial institutions, facilitating trade with Chinese companies. qatarrmbcentre.com
Third Financial Sector Strategic Plan: This was issued in November 2023 to create a financial and capital market that leads the region in innovation, efficiency and investor protection and positions Qatar to unlock its full economic potential in line with its National Vision 2030. The strategy is based on four fundamental pillars: the banking sector, the insurance sector, the digital financial services system, and capital markets. These pillars support five common themes:
• Governance and regulatory oversight of financial sectors.
• Enhancing the role of Islamic finance.
• Digital innovations and advanced technology.
• Environmental, social, institutional governance, and sustainability.
• Talent and capabilities.
'Buy Now Pay Later' (BNPL): QCB has approved five companies to offer BNPL services: Spendwisor Inc; Qaiver FinTech LLC; HSAB for Payment Solutions; Mihuru LLC; and Pay Later Website Services. According to QCB, 'this does not constitute a full-scale licensing approval; however, the applicant is considered an Authorised FinTech Sandbox Participant for regulatory activities by the fintech entity.'
BNPL is a short term interest free credit facility, allowing the customer – a Qatari resident aged 18 and above – to split the transaction amount into instalments to be repaid over a maximum of 12 months, via a merchant's online and offline store, or a BNPL Provider's digital platform that aggregates multiple merchants.
The BNPL regulations apply to any provider operating in Qatar set up under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Qatar Financial Centre, Qatar Science and Technology Park or any other free zone authority/commercial licensing entity, but not banks or finance companies licensed by QCB.
Fintech regulations: Noting the increasing growth and popularity of fintech, QCB has launched the Regulatory Sandbox and the Express Sandbox. Registration opened in January 2025, inviting fintech companies, startups, and innovators in the financial sector to test technological solutions in a regulated and secure environment under the supervision of QCB. sandbox.qcb.gov.qa
QCB launched the National Fintech Strategy 2023 in March 2023 to 'support and reinforce a diversified economy and investments in Qatar based on financial technology and technological innovation,' according to the QCB Governor.
The strategy has four pillars to boost Qatar's economic growth:
• Establishing infrastructure eg advanced regulatory rules and electronic platforms to develop financial technology.
• Prioritising innovation and financial technology sector growth, especially Islamic financial technology and sustainable development, as well as insurance technology.
• Empowering companies and enhancing their performance by using financial technology solutions and making the State of Qatar a financial technology hub.
• Providing a smooth mechanism and support for the transition towards cash-less transactions.
This strategy will add to the number of initiatives already in place to support the fintech sector, such as electronic wallets, instant payments and transfers, and the first local prepaid electronic payment card (Himyan).
In April 2024, QCB issued its Cloud Computing Regulations, seeking to regulate the use of cloud computing in the financial sector, protect financial data, and promote digitisation and innovation, while in September the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Guideline was issued, to regulate the use of Al within the financial sector, increase customer satisfaction and reduce costs.
Bad loans have been reduced since the Bureau started operations in 2011. The centre cannot grant credit facilities to individuals nor impose restrictions on banks. The Bureau provides analytical data and supports banks’ use of advanced techniques in risk management, as well as support sustainable growth of credit in Qatar. It provides banks with information on customers' total exposure in the market and the loans they hold, enabling banks to choose prospective customers. cb.gov.qa
Loans: Under QCB rules, the default period for a substandard loan is three months or more, for a doubtful loan six months, and a bad loan nine months. Banks have to closely monitor loan disbursement and forward reports on customer creditworthiness to QCB. There is also a duty to track and follow defaulting customers and seek resolution – if this fails, they will take legal action. Non-payment of loans could lead to a travel ban for Qatar and possibly the GCC.
QCB has imposed ceilings on the amounts a bank can lend as a personal loan to citizens and expatriates. Banks cannot lend more than QAR400,000 to an expatriate, over a maximum repayment period of 48 months, against a max 50% of total monthly salary, and at a max 6.5% interest rate. For Qatari citizens there is a max loan of QAR2 mn over a max 72 months. Banks cannot use post-dated cheques for the loan value.
Mortgages: New rules were introduced by QCB in July 2023, to be applied by Qatari banks and subsidiaries within the country. Branches and subsidiaries of Qatari banks outside the State of Qatar should comply with the instructions and conditions of the host regulatory authorities as long as the collaterals and financed properties are outside the country.
There are three categories:
• Ready and under construction residential properties for individuals, whose repayment sources are linked to the client's own sources, salary or any other non-real estate sources:
ø For Qataris, proprieties up to QAR6 mn –maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 80% and max tenure of 30 years; above QAR6 mn – max LTV 75%, max tenure 30 years.
ø For residents, for properties up to QAR6 mn –max LTV 75%, max tenure 25 years; above QAR6 mn max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years.
• Financing ready properties for individuals and
companies for investment and commercial purposes, with the repayment depending mainly on real estate revenues:
ø For Qatari citizens and companies, which Qatari partners own not less than 51%, for property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 75%, max tenure 25 years; over QAR10mn – max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years.
ø For residents (individuals or companies), for property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years; over QAR10 mn – max LTV 65%, max tenure 25 years.
ø For non-residents, property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 60%, max tenure 20 years; over QAR10 mn – max LTV 60%, max tenure 15 years.
• Financing real estate under construction for investment and commercial purposes with the repayment depending on the property revenues in whole or in part:
ø For Qatari citizens and companies, which Qatari partners own not less than 51% – max LTV 60%, max tenure 20 years.
ø Foreigners (residents and non-resident) – max LTV 50%, max tenure 15 years.
QCB rules for granting mortgages for salary customers states the debt burden ratio should not exceed 75% of the total salary for Qataris, and 50% for expatriates. If the customer obtains permanent residence in Qatar as a result of owning the property, the mortgage providers can extend the tenure to be similar to that of residents.
The amendments also state that for underconstruction property financing, the grace period, if granted, should not exceed three years and be within the overall tenure, with regular interest payments during this period on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Documents usually required: Valuation Report from an approved real estate agent • Salary assignment letter if the home loan is the first facility with the bank • ID for Qataris or passport and valid residence card for expatriates • Copy of the Title Deed and map • Building insurance cover. Discuss provision for life assurance against any loan amount taken and consider updating your will.
Bank charges: Banks must prominently display all interest rates on personal loans and credit cards, as well as publish them in local newspapers.
Credit cards: Max 12% annual interest rate and usually only issued when customers transfer their salary or have an adequate deposit at the bank.
Interest rates: Announced by QCB on overnight deposit and loan transactions between QCB and
local banks via the Qatar Money Market Rate Standing Facility, a monetary instrument through which local banks can request access to loan and deposit facilities with QCB at daily interest rates. QCB and Bloomberg jointly launched the first Qatar interbank offer rate (QIBOR) fixing in 2012 – the interest rate charged by banks in Qatar for interbank transactions.
Given the fixed parity between the Qatari riyal and the US dollar, QCB short term interest rates policies are subordinated to the fixed exchange rate policy, making QCB overnight interest rates closely related to its USD counterpart, the Fed Funds Rate. Following adjustments by the US Federal Reserve, in September 2024 QCB cut the overnight lending to 5.70%, the deposit rate to 5.20% and the repo rate to 5.45%.
Standard bank facilities: Debit/credit cards, standing orders, money transfers, personal loans, vehicle loans, and mortgages on current and savings accounts (including joint accounts). Some accounts offer longer terms, higher interest and the option to save in USD, GBP and Euros.
24/7 telephone and internet banking services and apps offer additional options, while some services such as ordering a cheque book can be accessed via the bank's ATM network. With mobile banking a customer relations officer can visit you at home or work to assist with banking requirements. Most banks offer premium banking services.
The Wage Protection Scheme (WPS) is an electronic salary transfer system that ensures workers are paid as per their employment agreement, initiated by the Ministry of Labour and QCB. Employees therefore need a local bank account in order to receive their wages from the employer.
International bank account number (IBAN):
Adopted in 2014 as a standard for identifying and numbering all bank accounts in Qatar. The system applies to all accounts in banks operating in the country, and can be found on bank statements or online in account details. The existing account number is not replaced; additional characters appear in front of the account number to form a 29‑character IBAN. All incoming and outgoing transfers to and from banks and financial institutions must use IBAN.
Opening an Account: Documents usually required:
• A valid residence card or work visa. A worker’s dependants (eg spouse and family) can open an account but may require his permission as he is their sponsor (check with the individual bank).
• Valid passport.
• For current accounts, a letter from the employer/ sponsor confirming the monthly salary in Qatari Riyals, with the company’s official stamp. You may have to transfer your salary to the new account.
• Some banks may ask to see your tenancy agreement to establish your residential address.
• Take copies of these documents, along with identity photographs. Ask for photocopies of any documents signed.
Cheques: A chequebook can be issued with a current account. They are not widely accepted for instant payment; post‑dated cheques are commonly used for house rental payments. The onus of responsibility is on the banks not to encash cheques before the designated date. Issuing a cheque without the necessary funds in your account is a serious criminal offence and the bank or creditor may notify the police, leading to possible prosecution. Punishment for causing a cheque to bounce due to insufficient funds can be severe: jail terms of between three months and three years, and/or fines of between QAR3,000 and QAR10,000. Cases being filed are on the rise in the country, mostly for cheques for large amounts, and the Capital Security Department records all cases electronically to speed up the process.
Under QCB instructions, the Qatar Credit Bureau lists individuals and companies who have issued at least one bounced cheque. Banks are not obligated to issue new cheque books to these customers unless the amount has been settled and their name removed. Banks must also report any customer who has issued a bounced cheque.
Credit cards: Widely available with all the usual privileges, with the credit limit determined by the cardholder's salary or savings balance. Family members may also be eligible for a card. Check at the time of applying for issuance and renewal fees, conversion charges, and payment options.
Since 2014 all card transactions made using the magnetic stripe inside and outside of Qatar will be declined. However, as certain countries (eg the US, India and the Philippines) still use the magstripe for transactions, customers should activate their card before travelling.
Offshore banking: Offshore banking can be a secure anchor for an expat's finances while out of their home country. Check with local banks for availability of international bank accounts in USD, GBP, or Euros.
Complaints: Unresolved consumer complaints can be made online to QCB's Consumer Protection Department. qcb.gov.qa
Current Islamic institutions include Dukhan Bank, International Islamic, Masraf Al Rayan and Qatar Islamic Bank. Lesha Bank – regulated by the QFC Regulatory Authority – is the first independent, Sharia compliant investment bank.
Banks were required by QCB to separate their Islamic and conventional lending operations by 31 December 2011. Islamic banking by other conventional banks is now barred from Qatar's market. QCB took this action due to certain supervisory and monetary issues, namely that holding both Islamic and non-Islamic deposits incurs different risks and reporting methods.
Law No 13 of 2012 requires that Islamic banks must have a Sharia board with at least three qualified members approved by the shareholders. Neither they nor members of their family may be employed or hold shares in the entity.
Institutions and services must abide by regulations set out in the Holy Quran and Sharia (Islamic Law). Charging riba (interest) is haram (forbidden). Islamic banks charge fees for services and engage in profit sharing, enabling them to offer comparable facilities to those of conventional banks. Under a mudharabah (profit sharing) contract, the rabbul maal (owner of the money) authorises the bank to invest funds as per Sharia to make justifiable returns. Other concepts of Islamic banking include wadiah (safekeeping), musharakah (joint venture), and ijarah (leasing). Bai (saving) is halal (allowed).
QCB is the supreme authority with overall control, regulatory responsibility and supervisory powers for all financial services providers in Qatar, including banks, Islamic financial institutions, insurance and reinsurance companies and other financial institutions. The provision of any financial service or the conduct of any financial activity or business (including insurance and reinsurance) is prohibited unless a licence is granted by QCB.
Financial services are provided by entities registered with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). Insurance products are widely available from local and international companies (see Living in Qatar).
Under Law No 13 of 2012 QCB and the Regulation of Financial Services, only local insurance providers are permitted to underwrite any kind of risk against properties in Qatar. Decision No 1 of 2016 issued by the Governor of QCB provides instructions related to licensing, regulation and controls, risk management, accounting, and other
requirements. Listed companies must have capital in excess of QAR100 mn or a risk-based capital, while unlisted companies must have capital higher than that set by QCB or their risk-based capital.
Decision No 7 of 2019 set out further instructions for licensing, organising and supervising the services of supporting insurance providers. It set out the competencies and expertise, the nature of the work, areas of responsibility and functions, and the establishment of professional and ethical codes of conduct.
QCB continues to regulate and develop the insurance market under the National Fintech Strategy 2023 launched in March 2023.
Qatar is a founding member of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF), and also a member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Law No 20 of 2019 on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing was issued in September 2019, replacing Law No 4 of 2010, with implementing regulations following in December. The law is in accordance with the latest standards adopted by major international organisations including FATF, highlighting Qatar's regional role in setting standards in its legal and regulatory framework for AML/CFT.
The Qatar Financial Information Unit (QFIU) is a government regulatory agency responsible for financial intelligence efforts to combat money laundering and financing terrorism. Banks, investment companies, insurers and other financial institutions must report suspicious financial transactions, which are analysed by the QFIU and disseminated to law enforcement authorities for further investigation and action. qfiu.gov.qa
The QFIU is part of the National Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Committee (NAMLC), which works closely with financial regulators and other authorities in Qatar, alongside international bodies, to ensure the effective implementation of Law No 20 of 2019, as well as other legislation. The NAMLC is chaired by the Deputy Governor of QCB. namlc.gov.qa
In March 2023, the FATF report on Qatar’s initiatives for anti-money laundering claimed that Qatar has made substantive improvements to its system to combat money laundering and terrorism financing and its technical compliance with FATF requirements is strong. m
The economy has successfully weathered both the COVID-19 pandemic and the blockade imposed on 5 June 2017, with positivity after borders reopened following the AlUla Declaration in January 2021.
The 2024 Article IV Mission to Qatar by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued in December states, 'Qatar’s economy has shown signs of a gradual rebound from the post-World Cup growth moderation. Near-term real GDP growth is expected to reach 2%, and the medium-term outlook is more favourable, supported by the significant Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) production expansion and intensified structural reforms. Strong reform momentum following the launch of the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) should continue to build a knowledge-based, private sectorled, and sustainable economy.' imf.org
According to the National Statistics centre at the National Planning Council (NPC), data showed that Qatar's estimated gross domestic product (GDP) for Q3 2024 reached about QAR180.23 bn at constant prices, compared to QAR176.7 bn year-on-year (y-o-y). Estimated GDP at current prices reached approximately QAR204.08 bn in Q3 2024, a growth of 1.8% y-o-y. Qatar's economy grew by 4.1% in nominal terms, equivalent to approximately QAR8 bn compared to Q2 2024, and by 1.9% in real terms. npc.qa
Qatar recorded a merchandise trade balance surplus (the difference between total exports and imports) of QAR57.7 bn in Q3 2024, down from QAR60.9 bn, according to the NPC.
Total exports in Q3 2024 (including exports of domestic goods and re-exports) amounted to QAR87.8 bn, a decrease of 2.2% y-o-y, but an increase of 3.3% compared to Q2 2024. Imports in Q3 2024 amounted to QAR30.1 bn, an increase of 4.1% y-o-y, and a decrease of 1.1% compared to Q2 2024. Asia was the principal destination of Qatar’s exports and the first origin of Qatar’s imports, followed by the GCC and the European Union.
The State Budget for 2025, announced in December 2024, projects total revenues of QAR197 bn. HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Finance, stated that Qatar continues its conservative approach in estimating oil and gas revenues, adopting an average oil price of USD60 per barrel to ensure financial flexibility and sustainable spending patterns.
Projected oil and gas revenue is QAR154 bn, down 3.1% compared to 2024, while non-oil revenues remain unchanged at QAR43 bn. The budget's total expenditure is QAR210.2 bn, up 4.6%.
The education sector is allocated QAR19.4 bn, with plans to construct 11 new schools, renovate seven existing ones, and construct new buildings for the College of Dentistry and the College of Nursing. The health sector is allocated QAR22 bn, to complete the construction of new hospitals and develop existing facilities for Hamad Medical Corporation and the Primary Health Care Corporation.
Allocations for these sectors represent around 20% of the total budget.
Allocation for the municipality and environment sector is QAR21.9 bn, for projects like the establishment of a shelter and care centre for wildlife, development and rehabilitation of the Al Maha Wildlife Reserve in Al Sheehaniya, rehabilitation and maintenance of the central veterinary laboratories building, development of farm complexes, and expansion of the Aquatic Research Center.
The sports sector is allocated QAR6.6 bn to upgrade and develop facilities at Aspire Zone, the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, the Qatar Equestrian Federation, and the Al Uqda Equestrian Complex, as well as the development of covered sports halls and facilities under the Ministry of Sports and Youth.
Commercial affairs are allocated QAR3.9 bn, transportation QAR3.9 bn, tourism and culture QAR3.6 bn, telecommunications QAR3 bn, social services QAR2.7 bn, and research and development QAR1.1 bn. Allocations for salaries and wages have increased to QAR67.5 bn, up 5.5%.
In September 2024, the Consumer Price Index, used to calculate inflation rates in Qatar, reached 107.82 points, up from 107.11 in July 2024.
The World Bank states Qatar has one of the lowest percentages of unemployed people, declining from 0.81% in 1991 to 0.13% in 2024. Qatar has been a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) since 1972 and has ratified six conventions including five of the fundamental conventions. In 2018, Qatar and the ILO started the first phase of a technical cooperation programme (TCP) to carry out extensive labour reforms with Phase 2 from 2021 to 2024. Phase 3 will run from 2024 to 2028 and aligns with the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) and Qatar National Vision 2030.
Qatar is a member of the World Trade Organisation and its trade policies create a competitive international trading market. The government supports the growth and success of businesses in a bid to diversify the economy. Qatar is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which also includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Following the ending of the blockade in 2021, Qatar has resumed trade with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt, and has continued to strengthen relations with a number of other countries such as Turkey, Oman, Kuwait, India, China, the UK and the US.
can provide valuable information on commercial activities and can connect you with their business council/chamber of commerce – see the Discovering Qatar section for contact details. Translation services can be found in Day-to-Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.
AQBA was launched in September 2024 by the Australian community and business leaders in Qatar, connecting two leading nations through networking opportunities, educational resources, and exclusive benefits. By strengthening bilateral and trade relations, AQBA works to support the long-term economic vision of each country.
Membership Benefits:
Access to the Australian business community in Qatar
Access to a wide range of networking events
Exclusive membership discounts
To register your interest, please contact info@aqba.qa
Corporate social responsibility is now a global mindset, affecting stakeholders, shareholders, consumers, suppliers, and employees, transforming from a mere stakeholder satisfaction to a crucial factor.
mubadara.social
CSR benefits businesses, society, and the environment by enhancing brand reputation, building stronger customer relationships, fostering a positive work culture, achieving cost efficiencies, attracting investors, and ensuring long-term profitability and positive societal impact.
Qatar has one of the fastest growing global economies thanks to the world's third largest concentration of natural gas reserves. Recent legal liberalisation, economic diversification and an expanding economy provide many investment opportunities for non-Qataris. Investors have unrivalled world connectivity via Hamad Port, one of the largest in the region, and the world’s best airport, airline and air cargo carrier. Profits can be repatriated as can proceeds of sale and capital on liquidation. Major investment sectors are hydrocarbons, education, and financial and legal services, alongside ICT, sport, leisure and healthcare.
Under Qatar National Vision 2030, several strategic initiatives have been launched to diversify the economy and attract foreign direct investment. The Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) unveiled in 2024 states that Qatar is aiming for a 4% growth in non-hydrocarbon gross domestic product (GDP). Qatar ranks first among the world’s top destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI), thanks to strong economic and investment momentum, according to the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar). There are increased investment opportunities on offer thanks to the recent decision of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to reduce fees by up to 90% for certain services.
The government welcomes foreign participation in joint ventures, with a number of incentives for investment:
• A developed infrastructure and ICT network.
• Easy access to world markets with good sea and air connections, continuously being upgraded.
• Natural gas, electricity, water and petroleum at subsidised rates.
• Land for development in the Industrial Area near Doha for nominal fees – companies can submit a request to the Ministry of Municipality for a lease contract of a plot under the Doha, Al Khor, Al Thakhira and Al Shamal Municipalities.
• Loans available from Qatar Development Bank.
• Fixed parity between the Qatari riyal and US dollar (USD1 = QAR3.64).
• No customs duty on the import of plant machinery; exemption from export duty.
• Five-year renewable tax holidays (based on government approval).
• No income tax on the salaries of expatriates.
• Tax on the profits of foreign-owned stakes in Qatari companies applied at a flat rate of 10%.
• Employment and immigration rules enabling the import of skilled and unskilled labour.
There are primarily two regulatory jurisdictions for foreign investors seeking to conduct commercial business in Qatar: the regulations of the State of Qatar, and the rules and regulations of the Qatar Financial Centre (discussed in more detail below).
Qatar also recently introduced new free zones designed to encourage certain bespoke investment vehicles to bring their businesses to the region.
Non-Qatari investors may only invest in Qatar in accordance with Foreign Investment Law No 1 of 2019:
• In January 2019 the Amir promulgated the new foreign investment law of 2019. According to the new law, foreign investors are permitted to hold more than 49% in commercial companies with special permission from the Minister of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) (subject to some prohibitions set out below). Under the former law such increased ownership was limited to those businesses operating in a specific set of sectors.
• Non-Qatari investors are prohibited from being appointed as commercial agents under Commercial Agencies Law No 8 of 2002, but the former prohibition preventing foreigners from investing in real estate businesses has been removed under the new Foreign Investment Law. Approval from the Council of Ministers is required for foreign investment in banking and insurance.
• Foreign capital is protected against expropriation (although the State may acquire assets for public benefit on a non-discriminatory basis, provided the full economic value is paid for the asset).
• Subject to Ministerial approval, a foreign company performing a specific contract in Qatar may set up a branch office if the project facilitates the performance of a public service or utility.
• A non-Qatari company operating in Qatar under a Qatari government concession to extract, exploit or manage the State's national resources is exempt from the Foreign Investment Law. In practice this covers all large oil and gas companies.
• A company formed by a non-Qatari entity with the government or a government entity ('Article 207 Company') may be subject to special rules and exemptions from the Commercial Companies Law No 11 of 2015.
• All international companies securing mega infrastructure development work must share at least 30% of the contract with local entities.
• Law No 7 of 1987 governs the practice of commercial activity by GCC citizens in Qatar, and was amended in April 2017 under Law No 6 of 2017. GCC citizens as individuals or legal personalities can practice retail and wholesale trade in Qatar. However, the GCC citizen engaging in the activity must be directly responsible for it. Those undertaking retail business must do so via direct sale to customers in a shop, and those in wholesale trading are required to import and export the goods. NB: following the signing of AlUla Declaration regarding the blockade against Qatar, legal advice is recommended for this type of commercial activity.
• Law No 12 of 2020 regulating the partnership between the public and the private sector became law in July 2020, as per one of the following regulations: Allocation of land through a rental or usage licence, for development by the private sector; build-operate-transfer (BOT); buildtransfer-operate (BTO); build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT); operations and maintenance (OM); or any other form adopted by the Prime Minister, upon the proposal of the relevant minister. The Government or other administration may, on its own initiative or at the suggestion of the private sector, identify a project for its implementation through partnership.
To conduct business in Qatar on a regular basis, foreign investors are required to establish or register a legal presence from the following options:
• Incorporating as a company under the Commercial Companies Law which allows full access to Qatar's market and to work on an unlimited number of projects. A Qatari partner is required to own 51% of the capital of the company, except in the circumstances mentioned above. Various exemptions are available to attract foreign capital.
• Obtaining a licence for a branch office or trade representation office which does not require a Qatari partner. The licence for a branch is granted in respect of a specific project for a government client. The existence of the branch office is dependent on the duration of a particular project: once the project is completed, the branch office must close unless it has secured additional qualifying projects. Branch offices are only permitted to perform a specific contract and may not engage in general commercial activities with the larger local market. The branch will be fully taxable unless granted a special exemption.
Trade representation offices are only permitted to market goods and services; they are not permitted to engage in commercial activities.
• Under Law No 7 of 2017 companies in GCC states can now establish companies in Qatar, subject to having had a commercial registration in one of the GCC states for at least three years, and be fully owned and managed by a GCC citizen. Refer to the preceding caveat in Investment Regulations regarding the blockade.
• Appointing a commercial agent means a nonQatari company does not establish a presence in Qatar; instead a 100% owned Qatari entity or Qatari national is appointed as an agent to market the relevant goods and services. Commercial agencies must be exclusive and registered in order to be afforded the protections provided under the Commercial Agents Law No 8 of 2002; non-registered distributorships are subject to the Commercial Law No 27 of 2006.
• There is a separate regime for establishing an entity in the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). This allows 100% foreign ownership and aims to attract international financial services companies and some professional support companies to invest in Qatar. The number of permitted activities in which a QFC firm may engage has been increased to include a broader spectrum of investment options.
• The Qatar Science and Technology Park, a free zone in Education City, allows companies to engage in research and development, again with full foreign ownership.
• The Qatar Free Zones (qfz.gov.qa) accept applications from international investors in key sectors, at these locations:
ø Ras Bufontas, a 4 sq km site adjacent to Hamad International Airport – a technology and manufacturing hub for businesses requiring international connectivity.
ø Umm AlHoul, a 30 sq km site adjoining Hamad Port, south of Al Wakra – offers easy access to the water for maritime and logistics companies, and is a gateway for imports and exports. A port and marine cluster, 'Marsa', is able to support a wide range of marine businesses.
• The Cabinet has added some areas to the Free Zones Law, including Msheireb Downtown Doha.
• Under Ministerial Decision No 242 of 2016, the MoCI will grant licences for small businesses at home conducting certain commercial activities including sewing, events services, electronic services, business services, cosmetic activities and food activities. A single license is issued per
activity, with an annual fee, and cannot involve direct sales to the public from the residence. A further 48 activities were announced in August 2024, bringing the total to 63. Applications can be made through the Single Window portal at moci.gov.qa
According to the Commercial Companies Law No 11 of 2015, the following structures are permitted:
• Limited liability companies (LLCs) – subject to the Foreign Investment Law can now be established by a single person owning the entire share capital (previously the minimum number of shareholders was two). This replaces the single person company under the old companies law. Shareholders can determine the share capital of an LLC (previously the minimum share capital was QAR200,000 divided into equal shares).
• Article 207 company – a shareholding company where the Qatari government, a government owned entity or a public corporation must own 51% of the shares, unless the Council of Ministers consents otherwise. Certain provisions of the Commercial Companies Law are excluded from the company’s Articles of Association.
• General partnership – joint partners administer the affairs of the company, and trustee partners contribute to the company's capital.
• Simple limited partnership – a local entity formed by two or more Qataris.
• Limited partnership with shares – formed by joint partners, liable for the debts, or trustee partners, whose liability is limited to the share value.
• Unincorporated joint venture – formed by two or more people pursuant to specific contractual arrangements. The unincorporated joint venture does not have a separate legal personality distinct from its partners.
• Joint stock company (public or private) – the capital is divided into shares with a minimum of five shareholders. Permissible foreign share ownership depends on the type of company and is subject to Qatar Financial Markets Authority approval.
• Holding company – incorporated as a joint stock or limited liability company. The holding company must hold at least 51% of the shares in each of the companies under its control.
Virtually all companies use a government liaison officer or facilitator to assist with establishment
formalities. Under Qatar Commercial Registration Law No 25 of 2005, companies must be approved or registered by one or more of the following entities: Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI); Qatar Chamber; Ministry of Municipality; Ministry of Interior; Importers' Register/ Contractors' Register; and QFC Authority (where appropriate). Visit moci.gov.qa for details.
Amendments were made under Law No 20 of 2014 to expedite registration procedures, followed by Decisions 30 and 31 of 2019:
• The MoCI must respond to the applicant's request for registration on the same day.
• Reasons must be given for rejected applications. The Minister must accept or reject an appeal of the Ministry's decision within 15 days.
• Incorporated branches must be in the exact name of the principal company, and are not considered separate legal entities.
• Amendments have also been made to penalties for those operating commercial premises without a CR, misusing the CR, and providing false/ wrong documents.
• Renewals, trade name changes and other modifications are now online services only at investor.sw.gov.qa
Exports According to the National Statistics centre at the General Secretariat of the National Planning Council, Qatar’s total exports (including exports of domestic goods and re-exports) in Q3 2024 was QAR87.8 bn, mainly to Asia. There are no duties on exports.
Imports Imports in Q3 2024 was QAR30.1 bn, mainly from Asia.
Import tariffs Importers of goods into Qatar must sign up to the Importers' Register and be approved by Qatar Chamber (QC). Customs duty and legalisation fees are levied on all commercial shipments, irrespective of its value. All goods imported into Qatar are subject to customs duties, based on a percentage value of goods (usually 5%), or on a 'per unit' basis. Effective from May 2021, incoming parcels and personal shipments with a cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value exceeding QAR1,000 is liable to 5% customs duties (previously QAR3,000).
Customs duty tariffs fall under these categories:
• Personal effects and household items, imports of charitable organisations and returned goods, diplomatic and military exemptions, merchandise for ‘free zones’ and duty-free shops – exempt.
Goods in transit may be accepted at designated stations without duty.
• General cargo, eg clothing, perfumes, cars, electronic appliances and devices – 5%.
• Steel – 20%.
• Urea and ammonia – 30%.
• Cigarettes, tobacco and its derivatives – 100% or QAR1,000 per 10,000 cigarettes, whichever is higher.
Law No 25 of 2018 on Excise Tax came into effect 1 January 2019. All businesses that import, produce or store/stockpile excise goods must comply with the requirements stipulated under the law. The following goods are subject to Excise Tax:
• Tobacco products – 100% • Carbonated drinks (non-flavoured aerated water excluded) – 50%
• Energy drinks – 100% • Special goods – 100%
In accordance with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Customs Union, more than 800 goods are exempted from customs duties, alongside exemptions granted to certain bodies and persons under Customs Law No 40 of 2004. There are fees for the attestation of the Certificate of Origin (from QC) and a tariff for the attestation of the Commercial Invoice, based on shipment value.
Qatar implemented the World ATA Carnet Council in 2018, an international customs system with nearly 80 member countries, permitting the dutyfree and tax-free temporary import and export of goods for up to one year. The system is being implemented by QC alongside ICC Qatar and the General Authority of Customs (GAC).
Through the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) launched in 2019, the GAC aims to develop partnership and cooperation with the private sector by granting customs benefits and facilities to companies involved in the supply chain in international trade, as per the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Trade (SAFE). To date, there are 39 companies in the import/export category and 8 in the customs clearance category.
Import regulations All commercial shipments are examined by GAC prior to clearance. The Qatar Electronic Customs Clearance Single Window (Al Nadeeb) is a one-stop e-government system to facilitate international trade. customs.gov.qa
New regulations were introduced in 2013 to prevent fake products from entering the market. All general goods must have non-removable marking of their place of manufacture to be eligible for customs clearance. This applies to both air and sea freight. The import of vehicle tyres, spare parts
and electrical home appliances has to be based on a 'certificate of conformity' issued by the authority concerned. All general cargo for customs clearance must be backed by an original commercial invoice on the shipper’s letterhead, with stamp and signature. They also require attestation by QC. The packing list of each consignment must have the number of pieces, weight and volume.
GAC requires all importers to obtain an HS Code, an international system for classifying traded products. This must be linked to the trader's Commercial Registration and import licence. Following Amiri Decree No 98 of 2024, the Integrated GCC Customs Tariff was implemented on 1 January 2025. The new tariff system comprises 12-digit tariff codes (previously 8 digits), so products can be classified for purposes such as determining the customs duty rate, nontariff barriers, and statistics.
There are few restrictions on bringing personal effects into Qatar. However, anyone (importers, exporters or travellers) holding local or foreign currency, precious metals or jewellery worth more than QAR50,000 must complete a customs declaration form upon entry into or departure from the country. Banned imports include alcohol, pork and e-cigarettes. The import of pets is allowed, although certain breeds are not permitted.
Points of entry Imports and exports transit via Hamad International Airport, Hamad Port, Doha Port, Mesaieed Port, Ras Laffan and the Salwa Overland Terminal.
There are no personal taxes or statutory deductions from salaries in Qatar. Under Law No 24 of 2018 on Income Tax ('the New Tax Law') and its executive regulations, companies must pay tax on all profits at a flat rate of 10%. This is on all corporate income from sources in Qatar, whether the entity has a physical presence in Qatar or not. The share of the profits due to a Qatari or GCC partner is exempt from tax.
Tax exemption applies for certain activities, and companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange are also exempt, but companies are required to pay a 2.5% contribution to charitable and cultural activities. Taxpayers need to register with the Public Revenue and Taxes Department. Auditors must be a firm based in Qatar and registered with the MoCI or approved by the QFC. Services are offered by the General Tax Authority via the Dhareeba portal.
In 2016 GCC members agreed to introduce VAT in early 2018. The Qatar Value Added Tax (VAT) Law
and Excise Tax Law and Executive Regulations was approved in May 2017, based on the unified GCC agreement. To date, only the Excise Tax has been implemented.
Under Law No 9 of 2002, a trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the date of filing the application, renewable for further consecutive periods of 10 years. The court may be ordered to cancel a trademark registration if the owner fails to use it in Qatar within five consecutive years from the date of the registration.
Copyright Law No 7 of 2002 gives protection to authors of original literary and artistic works. Protected works include books, lectures, musical works, photographic works and computer software. The economic rights of the author/owner are protected during the lifetime of the author/owner, and for 50 years after his death.
Patent Law No 30 of 2006 provides for the registration of inventions and foreign patents at the Qatar Patent Office; implementing regulations were issued by the Minister of Commerce and Industry under Decision No 153 of 2018.
Qatar announced its accession to the Patent Cooperation Treaty in 2011. The Law of Trademarks in the GCC Countries was promulgated under Law No 7 of 2014, and the same year Qatar signed a cooperation agreement with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to jointly improve services. There is an electronic trademark registration service via the MoCI website to expedite submissions and preserve IP rights.
Law No 10 of 2020 on the protection of industrial designs was issued in April 2020. This will offer more comprehensive protection for designs once the implementing regulations are issued, as previously protection was sought by publishing cautionary notices in Qatari newspapers.
In 2022 Qatar won the presidency of the International Union for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Berne Union). The Berne Union is a UN agency under WIPO, and is an agreement by member states to protect works and the rights of authors, as well as giving creators the means to place autonomy over their works. Acting Director of the office of Qatar to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Ahmed Essa Al Sulaiti is Chairman of the Committee of the Union for two years.
Qatar acceded to the Madrid Protocol in May 2024, and is the 115th Member of the Madrid System, a practical and efficient solution for protecting trademarks worldwide. This brings the
total number of countries in which it is possible to secure trademark protection via a single application to 131.
The Madrid Protocol came into force on 3 August 2024, and allows for the centralised filing of trademark applications across multiple countries. Companies and entrepreneurs in Qatar can now seek protection via one application in one language (English, French or Spanish). Trademark holders in any other Madrid System Member can seek overseas protection of their trademark in Qatar, while holders of existing international trademark registrations will be able to expand its geographical scope to include Qatar.
Trademark holders in four of the GCC countries –Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE – can now use the Madrid System.
Investment and Trade Court A4 Law No 21 of 2021 establishing the Court was issued in October 2021, specialising in investment and trade issues and increasing the pace of resolving commercial disputes. Work commenced in May 2022 using a state-of-the-art electronic system, offering a range of services from registration to case management, scheduling hearings and other related procedures, up to the issuance of preliminary and appeal rulings. The court consists of primary and appellate circuits, and a circuit in the Court of Cassation that specialises in examining appeals against rulings issued by the court. itc.sjc.gov.qa
Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar)
A4 Custodian of the Invest Qatar brand, IPA Qatar was launched in 2019 and is registered at the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). The agency provides investment solutions in Qatar, attracting foreign direct investment in all of the country’s priority sectors. The Startup Qatar Investment Program, provided by Qatar Development Bank, aims to attract tech startups to establish or expand operations in Qatar, with funding and incentives. The Invest Qatar Gateway is the first digital platform for investors in Qatar providing information on partners, business opportunities and resources. invest.qa, startupqatar.qa
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) A4 Creates commercial policy for both private and public sectors to boost regional and international trade relations and support business development. A number of services are available through the Single Window to attract local and foreign investments. In line with Law No 1 of 2020 on the Unified Economic Register, the Qatar Business Map Portal was launched, with comprehensive
information related to commercial establishments. The MoCI signed a 25-year concession agreement with the Qatari Economic Zones Company (Manateq) in January 2025 to manage the Small and Medium Industries Zone, with fees subsequently reduced in February. moci.gov.qa, investor.sw.gov.qa, businessmap.moci.gov.qa, manateq.qa
Ministry of Finance (MOF) C4 Prepares the State Budget and proposes objectives and tools of financial policy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Its Tahfeez programme enhances local services and products to strengthen Qatar's private sector. The General Authority of Customs monitors the import of all goods, and the e-services of the Unified Website of State Procurement include tenders and company registration. The recently-launched Center for Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR Qatar) is part of the World Economic Forum's C4IR Network and a strategic step towards enhancing technological innovation in Qatar. mof.gov.qa, customs.gov.qa, monaqasat.mof.gov.qa, c4ir.qa/home
Ministry of Justice (MOJ) C4 Records legal actions and documents, registers and protects IP rights, and reviews draft contracts and agreements in accordance with the law. The Ministry has a real estate registration/authentication office at the QFC to provide services to QFC entities.
Ministry of Municipality C4 The Foras investment portal promotes PPPs for environmental, service and sustainability projects. The Ministry sets requirements for shops and establishments on commercial streets, and offers e-services regarding infrastructure and real estate. mme.gov.qa
Qatar Chamber (QC) D4 Provides services and support to local and international businesses, including QFC-licensed firms, like certificates of origin (COO) for import/export and ATA Carnet, acting as liaison for international business
delegations, and providing training courses. QC became a member of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) in October 2023. The Qatar International Center for Conciliation & Arbitration (QICCA), established in 2006 as part of QC, acts as an efficient and swift mechanism to settle disputes between Qatari enterprises, or between national companies and foreign counterparts. qatarchamber.com, qicca.org
Qatar Development Bank (QDB) D4 Has an active role in the economic and industrial development of Qatar in the private sector by promoting and financing SMEs. The bank is 100% owned by the State of Qatar and provides a wide range of financial and advisory products, such as funding, incubation, and support services. qdb.qa
An independent regulatory authority supervising the financial markets and firms authorised to conduct activities related to securities in or from Qatar, and empowered to exercise regulatory oversight and enforcement over the capital markets. QFMA was granted full membership of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions in 2013. New legislation in 2014 modernised the legal infrastructure, while listing rules and a governance code for funds were issued in 2019. In September 2023 QFMA launched the Single Window E-Portal to allow companies to deal with just one entity, negating the need to separately involve QFMA, MoCI, Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), and EDAA (formerly Qatar Cental Securities Depository Committee). qfma.org.qa
QSTP is a facility for international technology companies in Qatar, and an incubator of startup technology businesses, offering premises, services and support programmes. The free zone at Qatar Foundation's Education City allows foreign companies to set up 100%-owned businesses in Qatar free of tax and duties. qstp.org.qa
The QIA A4 was established in 2005 as the country's sovereign wealth fund to grow and diversify Qatar's economy. QIA reports to the Supreme Council for Economic Affairs and Investments (SCAEI), the highest decision-making body concerning economy, energy, and investment of the State. The SCAEI approves QIA's investment policy and oversees QIA's performance.
QIA has two main objectives: to support the local economy; and provide liquidity when required to stabilise the local economy, supporting local economic development by investing in companies
that fill market gaps. QIA is the owner or a key shareholder in domestic companies such as Qatar National Bank, Ooredoo, Qatar Airways, Mwani Qatar, Qatar Holding, Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Katara Hospitality, Barwa Group, and Qatar Sports Investments, which owns football club Paris Saint‑Germain.
QIA has approximately USD475 bn in assets according to Sovereign Wealth Institute, although the fund does not publish its holdings. Direct investments are made in real estate, healthcare, retail/consumer, technology/media/telecoms, finance and industry. Following a restructure in 2016, USD100 bn of investments in local companies were placed in a new unit, Qatar Investments (known as QIA internationally).
QIA is a founding member of the One Planet Sovereign Wealth Fund Working Group, helping to produce a framework in 2018 to integrate climate change analysis into investment decisions. Further to this, in 2020 QIA embarked on a revised strategy promoting sustainability, with no new investments in fossil fuels.
Amiri Decision No 34 of 2023 was issued in May 2023 reorganising QIA, highlighting its mandate, primary roles and responsibilities, and strategic objectives. An enhanced governance framework will enable effective oversight, aligned with international best practices.
QIA announced the establishment of the Active Asset Management Initiative in January 2024, with Ashmore Group its first partner. At the Web Summit Qatar in February 2024, QIA disclosed a USD1 bn investment in international and regional venture capital (VC) funds to support entrepreneurs, Qatar's first VC Fund of Funds. qia.qa
QIA Portfolio (unconfirmed): 52 Champs Elysées, Adecoagro, Agricultural Bank of China, Asia Square Tower 1, Banyan Tree, Barclays PLC, Barwa Bank, Brookfield Property Partners, Canary Wharf Group, Claridge's/The Berkeley/The Connaught hotels, Coveo, Credit Suisse Group AG, Deutsche Bank AG, El Corte Ingles SA, Empire State Realty Trust, Fahrenheit, Glencore PLC, Grupo Santander Brasil, Harrods, Hassad Food, Heathrow Airport Holdings, Hochtief, Iberdrola SA, J Sainsbury PLC, Kahramaa, Lagardère, Le Brantano!, Le Tanneur, Lifestyle International Holdings Ltd, London Shard Tower, London Stock Exchange, LVMH, Masraf Al Rayan, Mowasalat, National Grid PLC, One Ocean Port Vell, Ooredoo, Oryx Midstream Services (Oryx), Pavilion, Pulkovo Airport, Qatar Exchange, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatar International Islamic Bank, Qatar National Bank, Reliance Retail Ventures, Rosneft PJSC, Royal Dutch Shell, Sauber Holding, Siemens,
Societe Fonciere Lyonnaise SA, The Bürgenstock Selection, Total SA, Turkuvaz, Valentino Fashion Group SpA, Vente‑Privée, Vivendi, Volkswagen AG, Xstrata PLC.
Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company
Ongoing projects include: Lusail City; Simaisma (Qatar) • Chelsea Barracks; Chancery Rosewood (UK) • Qatar Railways Development Company (Qatar Rail), overseeing the Qatar Rail Development Programme: the Doha Metro, the Long Distance Rail, and the Lusail Tram. qataridiar.com
The QFC C4 was established in 2005 to attract international financial institutions and firms to establish business operations in a 'best‑in‑class' international environment.
Firms need to be incorporated or registered by the QFC Companies Registration Office, licensed by the QFC Authority, and for regulated activities, authorised by the QFCRA. Advantages of establishment in the QFC include:
• A separate legal, regulatory, tax and business environment.
• 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of profits, and 10% corporate tax on locally sourced profits.
• A double taxation avoidance agreement network with more than 80 countries.
QFC assets amounted to more than QAR33 bn in 2024, with nearly 2,500 local and international firms registered on its platform. Companies comprise investment and private banking entities, and (re)insurance and asset management firms (each of which is regulated); and consultancy service providers, law firms and financial services recruitment firms (which are non‑regulated).
The QFC is taking a major step in diversifying key economic sectors eg digital, financial services, sports, and media. An attractive incentives programme is available to multinational companies, offering free offices, highly competitive tax incentives, and seed capital to cover five years of operating expenses in return for a 10 year commitment. An enhanced registration sees complete registration applications reviewed and processed quickly, and firms have a dedicated Relationship Manager once registered.
The application fee to conduct non regulated activities in the QFC was cut by 90% in February 2025, except for the activities of Single Family Offices, making entry easier for startups, SMEs and global companies looking to enter Qatar’s dynamic market.
Recent initiatives include the QFC Digital Assets Lab, the inaugural programme launched under the QFC Innovation Dome, powered by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). The Lab is a collaborative environment for start-ups, businesses and researchers, contributing to the growth of the digital economy and the adoption of emerging technologies across various sectors. The QFC Digital Assets Framework 2024 was launched in September 2024, in line with the Third Financial Sector Strategy issued by QCB. The framework establishes the legal and regulatory foundation for digital assets, including the process of tokenisation, legal recognition of property rights in tokens and their underlying assets, custody arrangements, transfer, and exchange. The framework also provides for the legal recognition of smart contracts. qfc.qa
The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority, the commercial arm of the QFC, leads the expansion of Qatar’s financial services sector and develops relationships with the regional and global financial community. The QFCA's strategy focuses on the creation of a global business hub for three core markets – Asset Management, Reinsurance and Captive Insurance.
The QFCRA is the independent regulatory body of the QFC, overseeing all firms conducting financial services in or from the QFC, as a combined banking, insurance and markets regulator. In 2012, the QCB Governor became the chairperson of QFCRA, as part of a plan to establish a single financial regime, comprising QFCRA, QFMA, QE, QCB, and the Supreme Judicial Council. qfcra.com
The Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) was established by QFC Law No 2 of 2009 and consists of the QFC Civil and Commercial Court (First Instance and Appellate Divisions) and the QFC Regulatory Tribunal. The Court has consensual jurisdiction to hear disputes between parties from anywhere around the world and mandatory jurisdiction to hear disputes between entities registered in the QFC. There is a purpose built Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre.
Under Laws No 14 and 15 passed in 2021, the QICDRC's jurisdiction was expanded to include the Qatar Free Zones and the Qatar Free Zones Authority, as well as matters referred to the Court or Regulatory Tribunal by any law in the State. A new practice direction on small claims, No 1 of 2022, substantially shortens the time to reach a judgment and offers a quick and efficient legal dispute resolution mechanism.
An additional practice guide was issued in May 2023, providing standard directions and notes
for proceedings, with a framework of procedures for litigants or their legal representatives during pleadings. The guide is available online in English and Arabic at qicdrc.com.qa
QSE C4 was created in 2009 between Qatar Holding (88%) and NYSE Euronext (12%) as the successor to Doha Securities Market; Qatar Holding purchased NYSE Euronext's stake in 2013. In 2012, regulatory authority passed to Qatar Central Bank (QCB) from Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA), and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Investment Promotion Agency in 2021 to boost the attractiveness of Qatar as an investment destination.
Trading in treasury bills began in 2011 and in 2012 the Venture Market for SMEs was launched. In 2016 QSE joined the Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative of the United Nations (SSEI). QSE migrated to a new trading system, Millennium, in June 2023, and is part of an agreement signed with the London Stock Exchange (LSEG) in 2022. The new system allows QSE to use LSEG's financial markets technology products to oversee trading, market data, analysis and surveillance.
There are 55 listed companies on the main market and 1 on the venture market, and 7 brokerage firms (February 2025). While QFC companies are subject to separate rules and regulations, the listing and trading of shares in QFC companies still fall under the purview of QCB, QFMA and QSE.
Residents, expats and individual companies are all able to invest. Traders must open an account with a brokerage firm, who will act as an intermediary for all transactions and provide a National Investor Number for a fee of QAR100. Investors can now trade from a bank account in Qatar or in the country of residence. EDAA (Qatar CSD) is licensed by QFMA to provide safekeeping, clearing and settlement of securities and other financial instruments listed on QE. qe.com.qa, qcsd.gov.qa
Under Law No 5 of 1963, only Qataris were able to own freehold estates. Law No 14 of 1964 established a system of registering legal instruments that affect land title. Ownership was amended under Law No 16 of 2018 on the regulation of non-Qatari ownership and utilisation of real estate, implemented in March 2019, whereby non-Qataris may own and use properties in Qatar 'in many areas according to conditions, regulations and procedures, which shall be determined by a decision of the Cabinet based
on the proposal of the Committee for the Regulation of Ownership and Use of Non-Qatari Property'.
The real estate non-Qatari individuals and companies are allowed to invest in includes offices, shops, units and villas in residential complexes, and real estate development of land in specified areas, and is not limited to apartments and residential units. Cabinet Resolution No 28 of 2020, passed in October 2020, confirmed the areas in which nonQataris may own and benefit from real estate, and the terms, conditions, benefits and procedures for their ownership and use of them. This encompasses the right to free ownership of residential units inside residential complexes and shops inside malls.
Owners of property worth more than QAR730,000 will be offered residency, as well as their family, for the duration of ownership, with residency given as soon as they finalise the purchase. Owners of property worth more than QAR3.65 mn will receive the same benefits as permanent residents regarding healthcare, education, and investment in some commercial activities.
Amiri Decision No 28 of 2023 established the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat), responsible for the governance and regulation of the sector. aqarat.gov.qa
Law No 5 of 2024 on real estate registration, or the New Real Estate Registration Law, has been issued to improve citizens’ access to real estate services, and introduces electronic registration for the first time. This law is the first of its kind since Law No 14 of 1964 and deals with enhancing real estate registration services, part of an initiative to align laws and regulations with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.
The law aims to improve the real estate services provided to the public, including registration, record-keeping, document generation, updating registration indices, processing applications for the registration of unregistered properties, objection processing, adjudication of ownership rights of unregistered properties and those expropriated for public benefit, setting out the procedures for updating real estate registry data, and others.
Digital copies, procedures, requests and transactions conducted electronically will have the same legal validity as paper originals. This ease of facilitating transactions and reducing procedures should the benefit both individuals and legal entities such as companies.
The Ministry of Justice is the one-stop-shop for all transactions regarding non-Qatari ownership of real estate, and for more information regarding these laws and regulations.
Freehold developments Non-Qataris can own and use freehold property in nine areas: Al Qassar (administrative area 60) • Al Dafna (admin area 61) • Onaiza (admin area 63) • West Bay (Legtaifiya) (66) • The Pearl Island (66) • Lusail (69) • Al Khraij (69) • Jabal Theyleeb (69) • Al Khor Resort (74)
Foreign companies can also own properties in these areas. The law offers an attractive new investment model to Qatar, offering 100% guaranteed return on investment in these areas.
Leasehold developments Non-Qataris can use real estate property for 99 years in 16 areas: Msheireb (13) • Fereej Abdelaziz (14) • Doha Al Jadeeda (15) • New Al Ghanim (16) • Al Refaa and Old Al Hitmi (17) • Aslata (18) • Fereej Bin Mahmoud (22 and 23) • Rawdat Al Khail (24) • Mansoura and Fereej Bin Dirham (25) • Najma (26) • Umm Ghuwailina (27) • Al Khulaifat (28) • Al Sadd (38) • Al Mirqab Al Jadeed and Fereej Al Nasr (39) • Doha International Airport area (48)
For information regarding mortgages, see Banking and Finance in this section. m
and real estate agents selling property (for letting agents see Day-to-Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section)
Law No 22 of 2017 regulates the activities of real estate brokers, overseen by the Ministry of Justice. and covers licensing criteria, application process, and the scope of brokerage operations.
Doing business in Qatar relies on personal relationships as well as the quality of the company or service. Networking and exchanging business cards is important. Men should wear suits or smart/business casual, women should cover upper arms and knees. When meeting Arab people of the opposite sex it is best to wait for them to initiate a handshake. Some other cultural nuances: Don't rely too much on email • Oral commitments at meetings may be deemed binding, written agreements may not • Appointments should be reconfirmed on the day • English is widely spoken, however the language of government is Arabic • Chat with your host on general matters before approaching business.
Qatar has the world's third largest proven natural gas reserve and is the second-largest exporter of natural gas, according to the CIA World Factbook. Petroleum and natural gas are the basis of Qatar's economy: more than 70% of total government revenue, over 60% of gross domestic product, and around 85% of export earnings.
The State continues to focus on the energy sector as an important source of national revenue, increasing natural gas production levels and supplying 25% of the world’s total liquefied natural gas (LNG). This has positioned Qatar as the largest producer and exporter of LNG in the world and provides one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. This is due in part to the completion of Phase 1 of Qatargas' North Field gas development in 1991, leading to exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The North Field Expansion Project – the industry's largest ever LNG project – looks to boost production and revenues even further.
Many projects are joint ventures between the national corporation, QatarEnergy, and international entities. Under Qatarisation, joint venture industries and government departments aim to place Qatari nationals in senior management positions, an initiative that has been embraced by the hydrocarbon sector.
Qatar was a member of OPEC for nearly 60 years until January 2019. HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and CEO of QatarEnergy, stated at the time that Qatar’s exit from OPEC was 'not political' and that 'the withdrawal decision reflects Qatar’s desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 mn tonnes per year to 110 mn tonnes in the coming years.' Qatar is the first Gulf country to leave OPEC.
Formerly known as Qatar Petroleum, the company rebranded in late 2021 to reflect its new vision of adapting its direction and strategic objectives. The integrated national oil corporation is responsible for the sustainable development of Qatar’s oil and gas resources. QatarEnergy (QE) is also spearheading the energy and industry sector’s Strategic Qatarisation Plan to maximise the employment of Qatari nationals.
The first well, Dukhan 1, was drilled in 1939. In 1949 the first crude exports began and the first offshore concessions were granted. In 1960, Idd Al Shargi and Maydan Mahzam fields were discovered. The largest offshore field, Bul Hanine, was discovered in 1970 and came onstream in 1972.
QatarEnergy’s activities encompass the entire oil and gas value chain locally, regionally, and internationally, and include the exploration, refining, production, marketing and sales of oil and gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids (NGL), gas-to-liquids (GTL) products, refined products, petrochemicals, fertilisers, steel and aluminium. Operations are onshore at Doha, Dukhan, Mesaieed Industrial City and Ras Laffan Industrial City, as well as offshore at Halul Island, offshore production stations, drilling platforms, and the North Field.
QE has signed Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements and Development and Production Sharing Agreements with major international oil and gas companies, including Elf Aquitaine/Total, Anadarko Qatar, Maersk Oil Qatar, Occidental Petroleum Qatar, Qatar Petroleum Development, Talisman Energy Qatar, GDF Suez, China National Offshore Oil Corp and Qatar Shell.
Ongoing projects include:
• The Barzan Gas Project to develop approximately 1.9 bn cubic feet per day (cfpd) of North Field wellhead gas, and 1.4 bn cfpd of sales gas for the domestic market in addition to associated condensate ethane, LPG and sulfur.
• Redevelopment of the Bul Hanine offshore oil field to prolong the field’s life by countering production decline and doubling oil production.
• The Ras Laffan Industrial Petrochemical Complex with partner Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC. The USD6 bn complex will have an ethane cracker with a capacity of 2.1 mn tons of ethylene per annum, making it the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world, raising capacity by more than 40% to 14 mn tons per annum by the end of 2026.
• The North Field Expansion, the world's largest LNG project. The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani laid the foundation stone in October 2023. Under the first phase, North Field East (NFE), LNG production capacity will increase from 77 mn tons per annum (MTPA) to 110 MTPA. Second phase, North Field South (NFS), will increase LNG production capacity to 126 MTPA. A new third project was announced in February 2024, North Field West, which will increase LNG production to 142 MTPA by 2030.
• A new, world-scale urea production complex in Mesaieed Industrial City. The project will build three ammonia production lines to supply feedstock to four urea production trains and will double Qatar’s urea production from the current 6 MTPA to 12.4 MTPA. Production from the project’s first train is expected before the end of this decade, and will make Qatar the world's largest urea exporter.
• The Dukhan Solar Power Plant with a production capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW). This will more than double Qatar’s PV solar power production capacity to about 4,000 MW, around 30% of Qatar’s total electrical power production capacity. The project joins two solar power projects that QE is building in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed Industrial Cities with a total production capacity of 875 MW, and which are expected to start production before the end of 2024.
• The Blue Ammonia Plant in Mesaieed Industrial City is the largest of its kind in the world, part of Qatar's strategy to produce low carbon ammonia to reduce CO2 emissions. The production unit has a capacity of 1.2 mn tons per annum, with an additional unit for CO2 injection and storage. Production is expected to begin in Q2 2026.
• QE signed a joint venture agreement with Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Company (40%), Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Co (30%) and Turkiye’s Atlas Yatirim Planlama (30%) in September 2024 to build a salt production plant in the Um Al Houl area of Qatar, operated by Qatar Petrochemical Company and Qatar Vinyl Company. This is the first such facility in the Middle East region and will meet both industrial and food-grade salt needs.
QatarEnergy’s Industrial Cities Directorate QatarEnergy's Industrial Cities are developed and operated according to international standards for the sector, with a focus on health and safety and sustainable development practices.
Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLIC) is 80 km from Doha along the northeast coast. It was established
in 1996 and is now one of the fastest-growing industrial cities in the world. Industries in RLIC: QatarEnergy LNG • Pearl GTL and Oryx GTL • Al Khaleej Gas • Dolphin Energy Limited • Laffan Refinery 1 & 2 • Ras Laffan Olefins Company • Ras Laffan Helium • Qatar Power • Ras Girtas Power and Ras Laffan Power • Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard.
Mesaieed Industrial City (MIC), 40 km south of Doha, is a hub for petrochemicals, chemical fertilisers, oil refining and metallurgical industries. Industries in MIC: QE Mesaieed Refinery • Qatar Petrochemical Co • Qatar Fertiliser Co • Qatar Chemical Co • Qatar Steel • Qatar Aluminium Co • Qatar Vinyl Co • Qatar Fuel Additives Co.
Dukhan Concession Area (DCA) is 80 km west of Doha and produces about 180,000 bpd of oil. Crude oil is exported through the terminal operations department at Mesaieed and also supplied to the QE Refinery, while condensates are sent to the QE Refinery in Mesaieed.
Al Kharsaah Solar PV Power Plant (KSPP), inaugurated by The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in October 2022, is 80 km west of Doha. It is the first in Qatar and one of the largest in the region, with a total capacity of 800 MW. KSPP covers 10 sq km with more than 1.8 mn solar panels utilising tracking technology to follow the sun's movement to maximise daily production. Robotic arms and treated water clean the solar panels at night to boost production efficiency. The power plant has been developed and is operated by Siraj 1, which is jointly owned 40% by a consortium formed by TotalEnergies (49%) and Marubeni (51%) and 60% by QE Renewable Solutions. The project includes a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement between Siraj 1 and Kahramaa. KSPP can supply 10% of the country's peak power consumption and will avoid 26 mn tons of CO2 emissions during its lifetime. qatarenergy.qa
North Oil Company (NOC)
A joint venture to operate and further develop the Al Shaheen oil field for the next 25 years, owned by QE (70%) and Total (30%). Al Shaheen oil field is in Qatari waters 80 km north of Ras Laffan with 33 platforms and more than 300 wells, producing around 300,000 barrels of oil per day from Qatar’s largest offshore oil field and one of the largest offshore oil fields in the world. noc.qa
ORYX GTL Ltd
Established in 2003 to develop, construct, and operate Qatar’s first GTL plant, converting natural gas into high quality GTL products including diesel, naphtha, and LPG. ORYX GTL is a 51:49 joint venture between QE and Sasol Middle East and
India, manufacturing more than 32,400 bpd of high specification GTL diesel, naphtha and LPG. The naphtha is exported from Ras Laffan and marketed by Qatar International Petroleum Marketing Co (Tasweeq) to customers in the Middle East and Far East. oryxgtl.com.qa
Qatar Chemical Company Ltd (Q-Chem)
Owned by Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Company QSC (MPHC) (49%), Chevron Phillips Chemical International Qatar Holdings LLC (49%), and QE (2%). MPHC is majority owned by QE. The Q-Chem facility produces high- and medium-density polyethylene (HDPE and MDPE), 1-hexene and other products, using technology provided by Chevron Phillips Chemical.
The Q-Chem complex in MIC has a production capacity of 453,000 MTA of polyethylene and a production capacity 47,000 MTA of 1-hexene. The adjacent Q-Chem II facility produces 350,000 MTA of HDPE. Ras Laffan Olefins Company Ltd, owned by Q-Chem II, Qatofin and QE, produces 1.3 MTPA of ethylene cracker and is operated by Q-Chem II. qchem.com.qa
QatarEnergy LNG
Established in 1984 as Qatargas, production began in 1996. The company rebranded in September 2023 to QatarEnergy LNG. The largest LNG producer in the world, the company currently operates 14 LNG production trains. QatarEnergy LNG delivers cargos to more than 30 countries to meet the world’s demand for safe, reliable and clean energy, and is a leading exporter of natural gas, helium, condensate and associated products. QatarEnergy LNG also operates the Jetty Boil-Off Gas facility, Al Khaleej Gas, Barzan Gas, Ras Laffan Helium, the two Laffan Refineries (among the largest condensate refineries in the world), and the Ras Laffan Terminal. qatarenergylng.qa
Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO)
Incepted in 1969 as a joint venture company to produce chemical fertilisers, the first significant step in Qatar’s industrial diversification programme to utilise its abundant natural gas resources.
QAFCO is now owned by Industries Qatar (IQ) (75%) and Yara Nederland BV (25%). The majority of IQ shares are owned by QE, making QE the ultimate parent of the company.
QAFCO inaugurated its first plant in 1973. Today there are six ammonia and six urea completely integrated trains, two urea formaldehyde plants and the Qatar Melamine Plant, the largest in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world, with a production capacity of 60,000 MTPA.
QAFCO is the world’s largest single-site producer
of ammonia and urea, with an annual production capacity of 3.8 mn metric tonnes (MT) of ammonia and 5.6 mn MT of urea, exported via Muntajat Co. There are also two urea formaldehyde plants producing 60,000 MTPA of UFC85, the anti caking agent vital to urea production. qafco.com
Qatar Fuel Additives Company Limited (QAFAC)
A Qatari joint stock company operating facilities at MIC for the production of methanol and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). Since the 1960s methanol has been produced from petroleum, naphtha and natural gas, and is a clean energy source and raw material for many everyday items.
The QAFAC methanol plant can produce 2,950 metric tons a day of US Federal Grade AA methanol from the natural gas provided by QE. The majority is exported to the GCC, Far East, Europe, and India.
The QAFAC MTBE plant produces around 1,830 metric tons a day by processing methanol from the on-site methanol plant and field butane from QE. It is then used by the QE Refinery at Mesaieed to replace lead in Qatar's gasoline. The main international markets are the Far East, Europe, South America and the GCC. qafac.com.qa
Qatar Fuel Company (WOQOD) QPSC
Distributes fuel products within Qatar – diesel and gasoline, marine fuel and aviation fuel – with fuel distribution depots in Mesaimeer and Ras Laffan. WOQOD has a fleet of road tankers, an extensive network of petrol stations, and vessels for supplying marine fuel. Qatar was the first GCC country to convert to fully unleaded gasoline and WOQOD’s diesel has the lowest sulfur content in the region. WOQOD also fulfils Qatar's energy needs with ecofriendly fuel products like LPG and compressed natural gas, and has also diversified into retail marketing with Sidra convenience stores at their fuel stations. woqod.com.qa
Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO)
Established in 1974 and a joint venture between IQ (80%) and TotalEnergies (20%). QAPCO is one of the largest manufacturers of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in the region. Joint ventures include Qatar Vinyl Co, Qatofin Co Ltd, and Qatar Plastic Products Co.
QAPCO main facilities consist of an ethylene plant (cracker) with a production capacity of up to 830,000 MTPA, three LDPE plants with a total combined production capacity of over 795,000 MTPA, and a sulfur plant with a production capacity of up to 70,000 MTPA. As by-products, the ethylene plant produces LPG with a capacity of up to 55,000 MTA and hydrogenated pyrolysis gasoline with a capacity of up to 45,000 MTA. qapco.com
Qatar Plastic and Wooden Products Co (QPPC)
Established in 1998 with commercial production commencing in 2000, specialising in the development and manufacturing of flexible packaging using polyethylene resins. The company is owned by shareholders QAPCO and Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Co. Around 90% of products are sold domestically with the remainder marketed in other Gulf countries and Europe. The facility is located at MIC, producing form, fill and seal film (FFS), shrinkable film and hood, construction foil, greenhouse and agricultural film, general purpose film, heavy duty trash bags, general purpose foil, wood plastic composite and wooden pallets. qppc.net
Ras Laffan Power Company Limited QPSC (RLPC)
Established in 2001 and the provider of electricity and water in Qatar. RLPC is a joint venture company owned by Qatar Electricity & Water Co (80%), QE (10%) and Gulf Investment Corporation of Kuwait (10%). RLPC has a 25-year Power and Water Purchase Agreement with Kahramaa and a 25-year Fuel and Seawater Supply Agreement with QE. The plant at RIC contributes 18% of the country’s power supply and 23% of the country’s water supply and is operated by Ras Laffan Operating Co WLL. rlpc.net
ConocoPhillips
The world’s largest independent exploration and production company based on proved reserves and production of liquids and natural gas with operations in 13 countries. In Qatar, the QatarEnergy LNG N(3) joint venture provides stable production, while in 2022, the company was awarded interests in two new LNG development projects, North Field East (NFE) and North Field South (NFS). The ConocoPhillips Global Water Sustainability Center at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) focuses on solutions to aid water management in the oil and gas industry and beyond. CSR in Qatar includes the Kulluna Health and Safety campaign, in partnership with Hamad Medical Corporation. conocophillips.com
ExxonMobil
One of the largest publicly traded international energy refiners and chemical companies. In Qatar, ExxonMobil has partnered with QE to develop the North Field, participating in 12 of the current 14 LNG trains, 27 of the world’s largest LNG ships, and Qatar’s largest condensate refinery. ExxonMobil is the only foreign participant in Al Khaleej Gas and Barzan Gas domestic gas projects. ExxonMobil also has partnered with QE in two LNG receiving terminals in Europe, an export terminal in the US, and in energy projects around the world. The company provides technical and management expertise to QE through technical services and secondment of ExxonMobil employees, while the ExxonMobil Research Qatar at QSTP conducts research in areas of mutual interest.
exxonmobil.com.qa
Sasol
An international integrated chemicals and energy company that develops and commercialises technologies, and builds and operates world-scale facilities to produce a range of high-value product streams, including liquid fuels, chemicals and low-carbon electricity. In Qatar, Sasol is a 49% shareholder with QE in ORYX GTL, which uses Sasol proprietary GTL technology to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products. sasol.com
The largest international investor in Qatar. QE and Shell have jointly delivered two of the largest energy projects in the world in RLIC. Pearl Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) is the world’s largest GTL plant, costing USD19 bn, and the largest single investment in the Shell Group’s global portfolio. The Qatargas 4 LNG project (QE 70%, Shell 30%) combines Shell’s global leadership in LNG with Qatar’s position as the world’s largest LNG supplier. The Qatar Shell Research & Technology Centre at QSTP is a world-class research and development facility and learning centre, with USD100 mn invested on programmes in support of energy and the environment. shell.qa
A broad energy company that produces and markets oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables, and electricity. TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the wellbeing of people. In Qatar, TotalEnergies has been present since 1936, and is active in all areas of Qatar’s oil and gas sector – from exploration and production to refining, petrochemicals, marketing of lubricants, and solar energy. totalenergies.qa Checked &
By Sarah Palmer
Amajor project launched at the end of 2024 year was QatarEnergy's QAR4.4 bn (around USD1.2 bn) Blue Ammonia Plant at Mesaieed Industrial City (MIC), considered to be the first and largest blue ammonia plant in the world..
Under the patronage of HH the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, HH the Deputy Amir, Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani laid the foundation stone of the plant at a special ceremony at Mesaieed Industrial City in November.
A documentary about the project was screened during the ceremony, which showed that Qatar has been a leader since 1969 in the global ammonia market, producing almost 4 mn tonnes annually. Most of this ammonia is converted to urea, a fertiliser essential for producing food for over half of the world’s population. Ammonia is now stepping into a new role to build on its legacy in efforts to reduce global emissions.
The plant is an important milestone in QatarEnergy’s strategy to expand in the clean energy sector by producing low carbon ammonia, one of the most important solutions to reduce CO2 emissions.
Speaking at the ceremony, HE Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and CEO of QatarEnergy (pictured right) said, 'This facility consists of an ammonia production unit with a capacity of 1.2 mn tonnes per year, along with an additional unit for CO2 injection and storage, with a capacity of 1.5 mn tonnes per year.
'QatarEnergy will provide the new plant with more than 35 megawatts of electricity from the solar power plant currently being built in Mesaieed Industrial City, thereby becoming blue ammonia. This plant will enhance our ability to provide the world with low-carbon products, in line with the global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.'
HE Al Kaabi added, 'In building this facility, we will rely on our own capabilities and expertise in the construction and operation of ammonia plants used for the production of fertilisers. This will be carried out in cooperation between QatarEnergy and Qatar Fertiliser Company (Qafco).
'In Qatar, we store about 2 mn tonnes of CO2 per annum in Ras
Laffan and after we complete all our development projects in the North Field we will reach over 11 mn tonnes per annum. As for the use of solar power in Mesaieed, part of the plant’s power will be generated by solar power plants, 400 megawatts of which will be generated in Mesaieed and another 400 megawatts in Ras Laffan.'
Blue ammonia is produced when the CO2 generated during conventional ammonia production is captured and stored. It can be transported using conventional ships, then used in power stations to produce low-carbon electricity.
He continued by stating that QatarEnergy has also announced a 2,000 megawatt project in Dukhan. After the completion of all these projects, about 30% of total electric capacity in Qatar will be from solar energy. This proves Qatar's commitment to protecting the environment and keenness to minimise emissions in a realistic and responsible manner, while ensuring growth for Qatar and the world. The plant will use the latest global technology in terms of safety, environmental standards and plant operations. Harnessing both solar power and lower carbon natural gas from the North Field will mean the project will produce ammonia with a best-in-class CO2 footprint, supplying low-carbon fuel to global markets.
HE Al Kaabi expressed his thanks to the consortium responsible for the project, ThyssenKrupp and Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC), as well as the teams from QatarEnergy and QAFCO who were instrumental in realising the project.
The plant at Mesaieed Industrial City is in a prime strategic location, with integrated infrastructure and capabilities, and a port considered one of the largest petrochemical export facilities in the Middle East. Production is expected to start in Q2 2026, marking a milestone in Qatar Energy’s strategy to expand into the cleaner energy sector.
QatarEnergy (QE) affiliates QatarEnergy Renewable Solutions (owned 100% by QE) and Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO, owned 100% by QE subsidiary Industries Qatar) signed agreements in August 2022 for the construction of the Ammonia-7 Project, the industry’s first world-scale and largest blue ammonia project.
The project agreements signed included the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract, awarded to a consortium of ThyssenKrupp and Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC).
Commenting at the signing, HE Al Kaabi said, 'Ammonia-7 is a landmark project for Qatar and for the industry as a whole. It builds on our expertise in installing, operating, and maintaining conventional ammonia plants to produce fertilisers. We are also building on our unique position in the renewables and carbon capture and sequestration space, as well as on our ideal logistical capabilities and advantages to supply differentiated, low carbon products and fuels to the world. Our investment in this project speaks to the concrete steps we are taking to lower the carbon intensity of our energy products, and is a key pillar of QatarEnergy’s sustainability and energy transition strategy.'
The plant will be operated by QAFCO, the world’s largest integrated single-site producer of ammonia and urea, as part of its integrated facilities.
QatarEnergy Renewable Solutions will develop and manage the integrated carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities, supply more than 35 megawatts of renewable electricity from its PV Solar Power Plant in MIC, develop and lead the process for certifying the product as blue ammonia with the assistance of leading industry experts and independent bodies, and be the sole off-taker and marketer of all blue ammonia produced by the plant. m
As arguably the world’s fastest-growing economy, Qatar recognises the importance of diversification and sustainability. It also acknowledges the inherent challenges of a rapidly-increasing population, further industrialisation, and the resultant need for an ever-expanding infrastructure.
To manage these challenges effectively, Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 was first published in 2008. Based on the guiding principles of the Permanent Constitution, it defines the nation’s medium-to-long-term objectives and creates a framework for sustainable national strategies. QNV 2030 rests on four pillars – Human, Social, Economic and Environmental Development – each with clearly defined individual long-term outcomes yet important inter-relationships.
Under QNV 2030, all new projects should provide a high standard of living for future generations, with investments in education, research, healthcare, transport and industry, to enable Qatar to sustain its own development by 2030. Plans include an integrated transport system, a major overhaul of roads and highways, drainage and sewage, and the renovation of downtown Doha.
The first wave of specific actions and targets were defined in the Qatar National Development Strategy (NDS) 2011–2016. NDS 2018–2022 has seen many of its goals achieved, despite exposure to abnormal conditions like fluctuating oil prices and the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030 was unveiled In January 2024, the final phase of QNV 2030, to strengthen Qatar’s ability to face challenges and transform it into an advanced society by 2030. The strategy aims to achieve sustainable economic growth, financial and environmental sustainability, a versatile workforce and cohesive society, a high standard of living, and distinguished government entities.
Qatar’s economic development aims to create and sustain a competitive and diversified economy capable of meeting the needs of, and securing a high standard of living for, its population now and in the future. The economy has historically been significantly boosted by growth in the oil, gas and petrochemicals industries. However the government is diversifying economic development elsewhere, especially in view of fluctuating oil prices.
Spending on infrastructural projects continues to be a focus in the State Budget for 2025.
The Budget, announced in December 2024, projects total revenues of QAR197 bn, adopting an average oil price of USD60 per barrel The education sector is allocated QAR19.4 bn, while the health sector is allocated QAR22 bn, representing around 20% of the total budget. Allocation for the municipality and environment sector is QAR21.9 bn and the sports sector is allocated QAR6.6 bn, mainly for the upgrade and renovation of existing buildings and facilities.
Read more about the 2025 State Budget in Economy, in this section.
Annual business conferences and exhibitions include Project Qatar, Build Your House Exhibition, QITCOM, Cityscape Qatar, Arab Future Cities Summit, Green Building Expo, World Stadium Congress, and trade summits.
Aiming to be an influential player in the region’s MICE market, the first major facility opened in 2011. The Qatar National Convention Centre, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and located in Education City, is one of the largest, most technologically advanced venues in the Middle East, employing environmental and sustainability best practices including LEED gold certification. Designed by Arata Isozaki, the award-winning venue features a 3D representation of the Sidra tree, symbol of QF. The 200,000 sq m venue has a 40,000 sq m exhibition space, a conference hall for 3,800 delegates and a 2,300-seat theatre.
The 47,700 sq m Doha Exhibition and Convention Center opened its doors in 2015. The building includes a state-of-the-art exhibition hall, modular wall system, and high-tech meeting and conference rooms. Located in Al Dafna, the venue has five exhibition halls, which can be used as one 29,000 sq m hall thanks to a unique wall partition system. The 18-metre high ceiling is supported by a revolutionary cantilever roof and is pillar-free.
Dramatic changes to Doha’s skyline have seen glass and concrete towers built with materials imported from all over the world.
The population has increased from nearly 1.7 mn in 2010 to around 3 mn in June 2024, with people mainly living in and around Doha. Just 50+ years ago the 20,000 population of Doha lived and worked in single or two‑storey structures on the narrow streets of what was just a small town on the southern shore of Doha Bay. In the 1970s, as the country changed from fishing and pearl diving to oil production and export, the decision was taken to reshape Doha Bay, extend the waterfront and expand the town area by reclaiming land. The area now known as Al Dafna (or ‘West Bay’) was dredged from the sea and the first building was the iconic Sheraton hotel.
Demand for town centre real estate has grown, with more luxurious living and working environments, forcing the city upwards. The traditional inward looking, small‑windowed, courtyard dwellings reflect the limitations of building materials and technology at the time. Now developments in glass technology and energy‑efficient, eco‑friendly air conditioning allow Qatar to build green.
Qatar continues to undertake projects to satisfy Qatar National Vision 2030, good news for local and international businesses.
The public private partnership (PPP) law, approved by the Cabinet in 2019, supports projects connected to QNV 2030. The PPPs are used across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, sports, real estate and infrastructure.
Qatar is increasingly adopting sustainable practices and green building standards. Efforts like the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) developed by the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) oversees sustainable construction. GSAS has been incorporated into Qatar Construction Specifications and it is mandatory for all private and public sector projects to get GSAS certification.
GORD, a subsidiary of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, has also developed the GCC region's first ever Sustainable Construction Code, which draws on the success of GSAS. The Sustainable Construction Code is a flexible, multifaceted approach with both prescriptive and performance based assessments. The Sustainable Construction Code is a simplified version of GSAS to ensure ease of adoption and enforceability across all Gulf countries. gsas.gord.qa
In February 2025, GORD signed an agreement with the GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) to integrate the Sustainable Construction Code into the Gulf Building Code. wer Plant
Public Works Authority ashghal.gov.qa
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) was established in 2004 for the planning, design, procurement, construction, delivery, and asset management of all infrastructure projects and public buildings in Qatar.
Ashghal strives to incorporate sustainability and environmental protection in its projects, as part of its commitment to play a vital role in QNV 2030. Three construction material recycling zones process waste materials like asphalt, concrete, and demolition waste, instead of sending it to landfill.
Ashghal’s key infrastructure projects include: Expressway Programme; Local Areas Infrastructure Programme; Drainage Networks; Buildings; and Projects of the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar.
Ashghal's recent new projects include 22 buildings valued approximately QAR4.1 bn. Ten projects are under implementation, including the development of Hamad General Hospital, the establishment of the Madinat Khalifa Health Center and Qatar Sidra Academy, and the rehabilitation of the Ministry of Municipality's veterinary laboratory building. There are six other projects under design, which includes the courts complex and the Courts of Appeal and Cassation, the main post office building in Al Thumama, and the land transport customs building.
Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation km.com.qa
The corporation, known as Kahramaa, was established in 2000 under the Ministry of Energy and Industry to regulate and maintain the supply of electricity and water to its customers. Kahramaa transferred ownership of its stations to Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC) in 2002.
In 2018 the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, assumed responsibility for Kahramaa as part of his remit to oversee the regular and sustainable supply of energy, power and water for domestic purposes.
Kahramaa has spent over QAR40 bn to meet increasing demands to the electricity and water supply. This includes five mega water reservoirs providing storage for 2,300 mn gallons of water, while the power generation phase will produce 2,520 megawatts of electricity. The plant will add around 30% water and 25% electricity for local demand once fully completed.
Customers are now using smart meters to record their consumption of electricity and water, with the information being relayed to the central system to enable remote and wireless monitoring and reading, in collaboration with Vodafone Qatar.
In 2020, Kahramaa awarded a contract for the country’s first utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) project to Japan’s Marubeni and France’s TotalEnergies. The 800MW solar PV independent power producer scheme is on a 10 sq km plot in Al Kharsaah, west of Doha. The project is owned and operated by Siraj 1 SPV, a consortium owned by TotalEnergies & Marubeni (40%) and Siraj Energy (60%), the latter being a joint venture between QatarEnergy and QEWC. The solar power plant was inaugurated in October 2022.
Kahramaa launched the Qatar National Renewable Energy Strategy (QNRES) in April 2024, in coordination with 22 energy stakeholders, to achieve deliverables under Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024–2030.
QNRES aims to increase and diversify renewable energy sources, specifically solar energy. Largescale renewable power generation will be increased to about 4 GW by 2030, with the installation of distributed solar generation up to around 200 MW by 2030. This distributed generation capacity will
enable more localised power generation, reducing strain on the centralised grid infrastructure and enhancing energy resilience. It should see Qatar’s total annual CO2 emissions from the power sector reduced by 10% and the carbon intensity in annual CO2 intensity down by 27% for each unit of electricity produced.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Legacy Mode
Previously known as the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) signed stakeholder agreements with Qatar Rail, Ashghal, Kahramaa, Aspire Zone Federation and Qatari Diar, for projects to deliver the infrastructure for the event.
The stadia were designed by the world's leading architects, incorporating Qatari culture, access and comfort, sustainability, and post-tournament legacy. Eight stadia welcomed the world in late 2022: Khalifa International Stadium • Al Janoub Stadium • Al Bayt Stadium • Education City Stadium • Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium • Al Thumama Stadium • Stadium 974 (previously Ras Abu Aboud Stadium) • Lusail Stadium.
Sustainability was an integral part of the project. Optimum dust-control strategies were followed to reduce air pollution during construction, achieving a minimum four-star rating under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) for design, construction and facility management, in addition to obtaining a gold certificate for its operations. More than 80% of waste from the stadiums, some 2,000 tonnes, was recycled or composted during the event.
Much of the annual State Budget was previously devoted towards stadium construction and associated infrastructure. Expenditure will now be allocated towards fulfilling legacy plans to create unique community hubs around the stadiums. The designs of the stadiums enable them to be easily converted into public facilities after the tournament and for parts of the stadia to be sent overseas to those countries in need of sports infrastructure.
Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is now home to Al Rayyan FC, while Al Wakra FC has moved to Al Janoub Stadium. There is much in use in the precincts at Al Janoub, Al Bayt and Ahmad Bin Ali Stadia. On Qatar National Sport Day 2020, public parks at Al Janoub and Al Bayt opened with green spaces, play areas, exercise stations, restaurants, and cycling tracks.
Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is the home of Al Rayyan Sports Club, enabling amateur athletes and the
public to use the running and cycling tracks, cricket pitches, tennis and padel courts, outdoor gym facilities, skate park and aquatics centre.
Many of the stadia remain in use, hosting more sporting events such as the AFC Asian CupTM 2023 and AFC U23 Asian CupTM 2024.
Qatar Integrated Rail Project corp.qr.com.qa
Following its establishment in 2011, Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) is leading one of the largest rail projects in the world to meet the demands of Qatar’s dynamic and growing population. The company is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire network and systems.
The state-of-the-art railway network currently consists of Doha Metro, a rapid transit system connecting communities within Doha and its suburbs, and Lusail Tram, a service for convenient travel within the new city of Lusail.
The Doha Metro: Three lines cover the Greater Doha area with connections to commercial and residential areas throughout the city. In central Doha, the Metro network is mainly underground, while at the outskirts it is at ground level or elevated. The main interchange is at Msheireb Downtown Doha. Conducted over multiple phases, phase one has three lines now open to the public:
• The Red Line runs from Al Wakra in the south to Lusail City in the north, with a connection to Hamad International Airport and transfer to the Lusail Tram at Legtaifiya and Lusail stations.
• The Green Line runs east from Al Riffa to Al Mansoura in the west.
• The Gold Line runs from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziya.
Lusail Tram: An integrated transportation system serving Lusail City, a state-of-the art tram based system connecting major points of interest in the city. The tram is designed to travel on streets, sharing road-space with other traffic and pedestrians. The project has four lines and 25 stations, with two interchange stations allowing passengers to access the Doha Metro.
Lusail City lusail.com
One of the largest projects in Qatar costing an estimated QAR163.8 bn, Lusail City is developed by Lusail Real Estate Development Company (LREDC), a subsidiary of the Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, itself a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority. Spanning 38 sq km north of Doha, Lusail City can accommodate more than 450,000 residents and visitors.
Launched in 2004, features include residential and commercial areas, parks, marinas, five-star hotels, a luxury mall, beach clubs, a waterpark, supermarkets and abundant dining options. Read more about Lusail City in Discovering Qatar.
Simaisma Project
HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, launched the Simaisma Project in June 2024. The QAR20 bn initiative, led by the Ministry of Municipality and developed by Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, will span over 8 mn sq m, with a 7 km waterfront over Qatar’s eastern coastline.
The project is part of a continuing effort to diversify Qatar's economy and attract foreign investors, offering different investment opportunities for the private sector. There are 16 dedicated zones available for development, and will include an array of attractions designed to appeal to both locals and international visitors.
Marketed as the country's new cultural landmark, there will be luxury resorts across four areas, an 18-hole championship golf course, luxury residential villas, a yacht club and a marina, as well as restaurants and shops. Plans also include a 650,000 sq m theme park, bigger than Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
The project will rely on sustainable construction and operation, incorporating cutting-edge smart systems and innovative technologies while prioritising the use of locally recycled materials. This aligns with the National Development Strategy 2024–2030, which is focused on expanding the economy beyond its traditional reliance on fossil fuels and fostering greater foreign direct investment.
