Business & Economy: Spring/Summer 2022

83rd ISSUE

S P RI N G/S UMME R 2022 BANKING AND FINANCE ECONOMY COMMERCE USEFUL NUMBERS INVESTMENT AND TRADE INFRASTRUCTURE IN QATAR THE HYDROCARBON INDUSTRY FEATURES FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022TM LAWS QATARGAS’ CORAL REEF PROJECT DATA PRIVACY PROTECTION LAW GUIDELINES ISSUED

Business and Economy in

Qatar

Untitled-2 1

4/6/22 1:51 PM

Untitled-2 1

4/5/22 3:18 PM

Business and Economy

PRINT and ONLINE

marhaba.qa

• • • •

Useful Numbers: Banks and Exchange Houses • The Banking Network in Qatar Currency • The Banking Sector • Qatar Central Bank • Qatar Credit Bureau Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates • Accounts • Offshore Banking Financial Services and Insurance • Islamic Finance

Economy • Economic Growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) • Trade Surplus • The Budget • Inflation and Cost of Living • Population and the Labour Force

Commerce Useful Numbers Investment and Trade • • • • • •

Incentives • Investment Regulations • Choosing a Business Structure Company Structures • Commercial Registration Export and Import • Taxation • Intellectual Property Regulatory Bodies and Government‑owned Entities Qatar Financial Centre • Qatar Exchange • Real Estate Developers and Real Estate Agents Selling Property • Business Etiquette

Feature – FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Laws Two important laws have been passed concerning Qatar’s hosting of the event and the associated intellectual property rights.

The Hydrocarbon Industry • Qatar’s Energy Companies • International Companies

Infrastructure in Qatar An overview of local infrastructure, ongoing megaprojects and new developments.

Feature – Qetaifan Island North Read the latest about Lusail City’s stunning new island project, with apartments designed by Elie Saab and the 85 metre Icon Tower!

Business and Economy

Banking and Finance

The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates. ©

M83 Intro pages.indd 9

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

4/5/22 4:00 PM

Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard Bainbridge Charlotte Wright Retail Sales Ayen Molina Maria Anicas Online/Digital Lalaine Turqueza Weslee Dizon Ramla Mohamed Abdirahman Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe

IMPRESSUM M83 1/2 page.indd 1

Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels. © 2021/22 Marhaba Information Guide.

All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

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MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

5 000 MUBADARA AD M83.indd 1

4/5/22 4:01 PM

ACS

Al Bayt Stadium is in Al Khor City, 30 km to the north on Al Khor Road

The International School of London in Qatar

70 Jasim

Al Gharr afa St

Al

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Celebration Hall

Al Jahanniya I/C

Road

uard

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Gate 2

Education City

St

Qatar Nat’l Library

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Al Shafi St

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Al Jazeera Academy

Al Sulaiti Bangladesh

Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian

Qatar Ind Tech QDC Safari

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Doha Mal

Park House

Ruqayya

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Pak Education Centre

Mind Institute

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Elder Tree Nursery

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Skills Developm Center

Alfardan Gardens 4 Dar Al Salam Mall

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Doha British

lw

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NBK Mercedes Hyundai Auto Class MG / Maxus Mitsubishi

Lycee Voltaire

2

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Gulf Pearls

Al Mirqab Mall

Cafe Batteel

Salwa Rd Bridge

Rd

Tebah Gardens

Ex

St idr

Aziziya

Swiss Belinn

Family Food Centre

Al Asiri

ASD

55

Al S

Al Sadd St

GAC

Garvey’s

Alfardan Gardens 2

Forensic Lab Dept

y Cit

55

Belgravia

aS

See more details of the area in our map of INDUSTRIAL AREA

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)

CESK

Beverly Hills

ts

Academy

Doha Academy Al Waab Campus

r Spo

Qatar Veterinary Centre

d oa aR iliy Summit

Sa

Newton

t/ eS

Royal Vet

Al

53

Sport City

Z on

Al Aziziyah

ire

Villaggio

Beverly Hills Gardens

Asp

KidsZania Hyatt Plaza

55

Step by Step

Al Waab City

Aspire Zone

2

Vet Surgery

39

QNA

ha

Awqaf

Torch

St

Hamad Amb Hospital

Wyndham

Joaan

Do

Aspire Park

Al

ab Wa

Hamad

DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital

Al Sudan Study Plus

A

Women’s Warwick

AIA

h in T

Su h aim Bin Ha

Am

Al Aziziyah Academy Aspetar Boutique Hotel

t Jassim Bi n Ali S

Al S

53

54

Driving School

Khalifa International Stadium FIFA World Cup Al Waab Qatar 2022™

Traffic Police

Royal Hall

Wathnan Mall

Al Rayyan Security Dept

s St ufou Al Kh Al Rayyan

Edison

ad

British Council

Rasheeda St

C

Fir Stat

Whit Palac

Le Park The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall

A

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51 Al Gharrafa/ Bani Hajer 52 Al Luqta/Lebday Old Al Rayyan/ Al Shaqab 53 New Al Rayyan Muaither, Al Wajba 54 Al Soudan, Mehairja, Muraikh, Luaib, Baaya 55 Al Soudan, Al Waab 56 Bu Hamour, Mesaimeer, Ain Khaled 57 Industrial Area 60 Al Dafna 61 Al Dafna, Al Gassar 62 Lekhwair 63 Onaiza 64 Lejbailat 65 Onaiza 66 Legtaifiya, Onaiza 67 Hazm Al Markhiya 68 Jelaiah, Al Tarfa 69 Al Egla 70 Wadi Al Banat, Al Ebb Rawdat Al Hamama

Appletree Nursery

Ain

E

26 27

28 Sharg Zone/ Al Khulaifat 29 Ras Bu Abboud 30 Duhail 31 Umm Lekhba 32 Madinat Khalifa (N) 33 Al Markhiya 34 Madinat Khalifa (S) 35 Kulaib 36 Al Messila 37 New Al Hitmi/ Bin Omran Hamad Medical City 38 Al Sadd 39 Al Nasr/Al Sadd Al Mirqab Al Jadeed 40 New Slata 41 Nuaija 42 Al Hilal 43 Al Maamoura, Nuaija 44 Nuaija 45 Old Airport 46 Mesaimeer/ Al Thumama 47 Al Thumama 48 Doha Int'l Airport 49 Hamad Int'l Airport/ Banana Island

Al Furousiya St

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Al Jasra Al Bidda Mohd Bin Jasim Mushaireb Barahat Al Jufairi Old Al Ghanim Al Souq Wadi Al Sail Arumaila, Armeilla Al Bidda Abdul Aziz Al Doha Al Jadeeda Old Al Ghanim Sharg Zone/ Al Hitmi/Al Rufaa Sharg Zone/Slata Doha Port Wadi Al Sail Al Rumeila, Armeilla Bin Mahmoud Bin Mahmoud Rawdat Al Khail Al Mansoura/ Bin Derhem Najma Umm Ghuwailina

Sedaira St

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 14 15 16 17

an Ro

Al

Full details of Qatar’s districts and zones at gisqatar.org.qa

University of Calgary

r rrido Co ad – HIA hm a I/C l A khb e h L b a U mm

(zones comprise one or more districts, some of which are listed below)

Al Rayy

54 38

Sa

Al Salam St

THE ZONES OF DOHA

City

Debakey

Al Rayyan

MoI HQ

ed B mm ha Mo

Lulu

Al Messila

Newton

Racing & Equestrian Club

Town Centre

Messila

yan Al Jadeed S t

Al Wajba St

Metro Stations

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Al Messila Resort & Spa

Compass

St

t aS ajb Al W

Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud

Ansar Gallery

Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital

36 37 Medical

Al Rayyan Al Qadeem

Beverly Hills Al Rayyan

Red line Lusail - HIA T1 - Al Wakra Green line Al Riffa - Al Mansoura

20 1 a St

Ate

Al Jazeera

Onaiz

Al

Philippine School of Doha

Q S

t

ar

w

Hu

Khattab St

iS

Al Rayyan Municipality Food Jarir Centres Bookstore

Doha College Al Wajba

64

K &S

n Al

Education City St Al Rayya n

34 35

Al Jazira Al Arabiya St University Foundation College English Modern School

Al

Volvo

QBS QTV

DESS

French Nursery

Omar Bin Al

Ja

i ed B Ahm

52

adeena St Al M

Al Shaqab

Chef’s Garden

EC Golf Club

Makkah St

SEK

Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda

Qatar Guest Centre

Omar Bin Al Khattab

Swiss International

Makkah St Oxygen Park Gate 5

Al Shaqab Mathaf

Edison

Traffic Dept HQ

Al Gharrafa

Souq Al Ali

St

All trains connect at Msheireb Station

uqta

Al L

51

College of Islamic Studies Education City Mosque

Oma

CCQ Boys

Al Hazm

Khalifa St

Al Luqta St

In Fr du

West Bay Al Meera

ad in Ham Jasi m B

Doha Metro Network

Car Park

New

Al Kh

St

Kanga’s Pouch

32 33

St

Al Wajba

2 Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI)

66

ty

Madinat Khalifa

Porsche Quick Service

Compass QNCC Qatar National Library

St

6

Starfish Lane Kids

Park View Compass Pet Centre

Little Academy

St

ur o

Dukhan

iri G

Education City Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel

in Jassim

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LuLu

QSTP

22 Feb

51

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Al Riffa - Mall of Qatar

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Education City Community Housing

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Japan School

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Umm Lekhba

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Mall of Qatar

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Ezdan Palace Landmark Mall

Gulf Mall

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tS Gulf English School

Sherborne

31

Qatar Canadian School

Duhail

51

13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters

Al Ghaf St

Jelaiah Complex

ifi

Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire

68

Starfish Lane Kids 2

St Al Khafji

Al Gharrafa Sports Club

Al Gharrafa Park

Jeliah St

Qatar Veterinary Centre

Riviera Gardens

ee

2

il St

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14. Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) 15. Qatar National Library (QNL) 16. Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) 17. Sidra Medicine 18. Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) 19. Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) 20. Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) 21. Academyati

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Academic Bridge Program (ABP) Al Shaqab Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) Ceremonial Court Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) Education City Golf Club Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Education City Mosque Multaqa (Student Center) Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) Oxygen Park Qatar Academy Doha (Primary School)

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, 245

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30

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sim

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Ministry of Education

Le

B

Izghawa

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awa

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Al Izgh

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Al Rufaa Street

68

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Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (Al Duhail Sports Club)

Doha G

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Road Interchange

Qatar University

FAHES

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Restaurant

Health Centre

70

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Ab du lA

Auto Dealer

Non-stop Expressway

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School, College, Club

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69

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Government Office

Doha Festival City

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MoI Immigration Department et Directorate of Passports Stre rfa Ta Al

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Petrol Station

Duhail Water Pumping Station

WOQO

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Religious Complex

Sports Stadium

Al T

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Bookstore

Cultural Landmarks

St

arfa

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Al Majd Road (Orbital)

IKEA

Mosque

Shopping Mall

Fox Hills South

Qatar Finland Int’l School

Legend Hospital

Lusa Towe

vard

Comm

Crescent Park

QATAR

Hotel

WOQOD

Fox Hills North

Boule

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Lusail

CGIS

prepared in cooperation with

ad

Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

6

oad

Doha

Map of Greater

1

al R am Sh Al

A

2

3

Al Khor Semaisma Losail Int’l Circuit

o r Ro Al K h

Al Majd Road 4

2

Al Shamal Al Ruwais Ras Laffan Al Zubara Al Khor Umm Garn Umm Slal

Lusail Al Mazrooah Al Shamal Rd

Ba r

1

Ras Laffan Al Shamal Al Zubara Al Khor Al Shamal Rd

3/28/22 9:53 AM

Ansar Gallery

Nissan

4

Water Slide

Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

6

WOQOD

EMBASSY LOCATIONS

Rixos Fox Hills North

o r Ro ad

Lusail Towers

vard

Qetaifan Island South

Boule

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Comm

5

Qetaifan Island North

Qetaifan Island North

WOQOD

Crescent Park

Waldorf Astoria

Fox Hills South

Royal Meridien Vendome Mall

Beverly Hills Lusail Cielo

Qatari Diar

eet

Str

WOQOD

QNTC MOCI

Shafallah Centre

69

Newton

Marina

Marina District

Doha Sports Park

t ree

Staybridge Suites

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Katara Hospitality

QIPCO

Qatar University

Doha Golf Club Ritz-Carlton

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CCQ Boys

Kanga’s Pouch

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St

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Salwa Rd Bridge

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Mexico

C4

B3

Moldova

B4

C3

Morocco

C4

Benin

C3

Nepal

E3

Bosnia & H

B3

Netherlands

C4

Brazil

B3

Niger

C3

Brunei

B3

Nigeria

Bulgaria

B3

North Macedonia C4

Burkina Faso

B3

Oman

B4

Canada

C4

Pakistan

C4

C. African Rep

B3

Palestine

C4

Chile

C4

Panama

B4

China

B3

Paraguay

B4

Costa Rica

C3

Peru

C3

Croatia

B3

Philippines

B3

Cuba

B4

am

C–H

ba I/

Lekh

t’l ad In

ort

Airp

Free Zone Qatar Free Zone

Kahramaa B Square Mall

C4

B3

Poland

Cyprus

C4

Portugal

Djibouti

B4

Romania

C4

Dom. Rep.

B3

Russia

B4

Ecuador

B4

Senegal

C3

El Salvador

B4

Serbia

B3

Eritrea

E4

Singapore

B4

eSwatini

B4

Somalia

C4

Ethiopia

B4

South Africa

B3

France

B4

C4

C4

Spain

Gambia

E4

Sri Lanka

E4

Georgia

C4

Sudan

B4

Germany

C3

Sweden

C4

Ghana

B3

Switzerland

B3

Greece

B4

Syria

Hungary

B3

Tajikistan

C3

India

C4

Tanzania

C4

Indonesia

D3

Thailand

C4

Iran

C4

Tunisia

C4

Iraq

C4

Turkey

B4

Italy

C4

Uganda

B3

Ivory Coast

B4

Ukraine

B3

Japan

B4

United Kingdom

C4

C4

B

C4

Kazakhstan

B3

United States of America

C3

Kenya

B3

Uruguay

C3

Korea (S)

B4

Venezuela

B4

Kosovo

C4

Vietnam

B3

C

D

B

St

ah A

Sab

Umm

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rrido

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D4

Belarus

See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA

Al Meera

Air Force I/C

St

kra

Al Weteyyat

daill

Al Fa

Wa

Co

Bangladesh

A

oud

Kahramaa Awareness Park

Al

wa

C4

Abb

47

King’s College

t

Ba r

B4

Mauritania

Bu

Sub-station

46

DOHA GREATER MAP M83.indd 3

Mali

B4

g Rd

E Rin

Al Thumama Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Workers Health Centre

Ras

Oqba Ibn Nafie

ri S

Meteorology

C4

Azerbaijan

Airport Traffic Division

nsa

Mesaimeer

Rd

Medical Commission Drainage Dept

C4

Austria

HIA T1

Al A

ea

Ar

48

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Nissan

American Academy

ME & HE

t

al

tri

B3

Malaysia

A

Airport

St Bin Nafie

aS

Ansar Gallery

Oqba

Concourse C

Ayy

Berlitz

Libya

C4

Oryx Airport Hotel

Qadeem

Shoprite

jm

Mind Institute

45

Montezine

Qatar Red Crescent

E Ring Rd

B3

Australia

E

D

Abu

44

The Mall IAID

Na

Safari

LuLu

Al Ahli Sports Club

et Stre ort Airp Old

t

Qatar Ind Tech QDC

Gulf Times Safeer Arrayah Gulf Rd Family Warehousing ing Food Centre Alfardan R Al Emadi D Hospital Le Mirage Gardens

Elder Tree Nursery

Armenia

Hamad International Airport

Doha Heliport

Umm Ghuwailina

41 42

Summit KG

Tank Farm

s du

Chevrolet

aS

43

2526

Regency Kahramaa Halls

C4

Ras Bu Abboud Qatar Aeronautical College

Strato by Warwick Al Mansoura Al Meera Al Meera Hyatt Regency Ford Al Mansour Oryx Doha AAB Mashreq Suites Al Jabor Bank Al Mana Al Matar Al Vision Holiday d R Chrysler g Villa C Rin

Al Meera

Liberia

Sharq Village & Spa

Abu Bakr

Holiday Inn

Financial Marhaba Square

B3

d St

St

Newton Int’l

In

Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian

Darwish Travel

D Ring Rd

Doha Mall

Park House

Abbou

rt

40

Crowne Safir Plaza

Al Muntazah Plaza

Argentina

C4

Stadium 974 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel Capital Al Liwan Police Concorde Jarir Bookstore

jm

Al Jazeera Academy

National Museum

Ras Bu

Al Doha Al Jadeda

B Ring Rd

24

Immigration

Pak Education Centre

atar ntific lub

Saraya

Na

56

Souq Waqif

B4

Banana Island

by Anantara

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Ramada Encore

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Al Muntazah The Centre Radisson Blu aalishan Rawda

Doha Academy Girls Al Ma Creativity ad Centre ee Qatar Egyptian dS Skills t Language Academy TEK Cambridge Indian Alfardan Girls Cultural Gardens 3 MES Centre Doha Modern Mesaimeer Indian Mesaimeer Services

Bangladesh

Msheireb

C3

Lebanon

ark

National Museum of Qatar

Movenpick

Alwadi Park Hyatt

Four Points by Sheraton

Westin Doha

Sterling

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German School Doha

Alfardan ardens 4 Dar Al Salam Mall

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Ha

he St Souq Al Cornic Waqif Bin Zaid

Amiri Diwan

Kyrgyz Rep

C4

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Bo

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Dreama

Cruise Ship Terminal

Museum of Islamic Art

Kuwait

B4

Algeria

Jordan

Doha Port

Al Mourjan

American C R Hospital b Nissan ali Rawdat i T CCQ ing R Al Khail Ab d Garden Girls in Omar Bin B New Al Khattab Ali CAA Aslata Skills Park Al Arabi Development Club Center

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C Ring Rd

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Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)

Sheraton

Grand Hamad St

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Do

55

Bin Mahmoud

Gulf Pearls

Al Mirqab Mall

Cafe Batteel

Ooredoo

Hotel Park

16 23 14 15 27

La Cigale

St

39

Family Food Centre

e j St

Al Sadd St

QNA

by Step

Al Sadd

mad

dan

Vet Surgery

Joaan Swiss Belinn DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital

British Council

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Le Park The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall

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Wyndham

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Tornado

NCCCR Rumailah Heart

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Four Seasons

11 12 2 1 7 22 3 13 4 5 6 17 Al Bidda Park

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Katara The Pearl-Qatar Lagoona Mall Al Bidda Park Souq Waqif National Museum of Qatar Grand Mosque QNCC Al Shaqab Mathaf Museum

Marriott Hotel Sharq Village & Spa Fisherman’s Wharf Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche Orrie Oryx City Center-Doha Hotel Park Hilton Hotel InterContinental Hotel

Dafna St

id Al B

City

Debakey

63

Qatar National Theatre

Fire Station

a St

t

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Qatar Post

Corniche

Onaiz

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MoI HQ

DOHA HOP-OFF BUS SIGHTSEEING ROUTE stops at

North Beach

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Qatar Sports Club

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QBS QTV

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30

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Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda

Qatar Guest Centre

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Bahriya Novo Cinemas Sedra Arjaan 31 Residences by Rotana Perlita Beach Beach Gardens

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Medina Centrale

22 23

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5/6 Int’change

West Bay Al Meera

Starfish Lane Kids

The PearlQatar

Porsche

20

Al Qassar

Al Co

hiya St ark

Omar Al M

Elder Tree KG

33

Chouiefat

Institut Francais du Qatar

Al M

18

Newton

Newton

Al Khafji St

St

66

67 zm

Edison

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4

Rawdat Al Khail St

Ha

iv

Lusail St

68

Un

7

6

Oyster

Diplomatic Club

The Chedi

La Cr

21 High St

Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire

Al Ghaf St

12

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ifi

t n S Katara oo

14 15

10

Katara

Jeliah St

s2

Abraj Quartier

Lusai l St

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ah ex

Hilton The Pearl

Legtaifiya

Ministry of Education

Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Qanat Quartier

Grand Mondrian Hyatt

Legtaifiya Lagoon

o La Cr isette

Lagoona Mall

Najma St

aS

B3

Albania

Belgium

Katara Towers

Al Maha Island

Century

eet il Str Lusa

arfa

Al T

Lusail City

Waterfront

Afghanistan

Ras Bufontas Qatar Free Zone

E

Airport (49) I/C

MegaMart

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Banking and Finance Bank

Telephone

Website

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

Arab Bank Qatar

4438 7777

arabbank.com.qa

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

Regional Banks

Banking and Finance

Branches of Foreign Banks

Islamic Banks * Dukhan Bank

800 8555

dukhanbank.com

# Masraf Al Rayan

4425 3333

alrayan.com

Qatar First Bank

4448 3333

qfb.com.qa

Qatar International Islamic Bank

4484 0000

qiib.com.qa

Qatar Islamic Bank

4402 0888

qib.com.qa

4405 6666

qinvest.com

Investment Banks QInvest

* Previously Barwa Bank; merged with International Bank of Qatar in April 2019 # Masraf Al Rayan merged with Al Khalij Commercial Bank in November 2021

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

The Banking Network There are hundreds of bank branches and ATMs across the country, with most in Doha but also further afield. They are located in nearly all of the malls, hotels, souqs and petrol stations. Visitors can usually access funds in their home accounts by using their ATM cards here, and some allow the withdrawal of USD and Euro – check with the relevant bank(s) 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. 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. The GCCNET system, established by the GCC countries, acts as a single ATM network linking all the GCC point of sale switches – in Qatar this is NAPS (National ATM & POS Switch).

Opening hours: Generally Sunday – Thursday 7:30 am – 1 pm, however many banks have extended branch operations. Check the respective bank's website for up to date timings and locations of branches and ATMs. All day/extended hours/weekends: Ahlibank, City Center-Doha: Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 2 pm, Friday 3 pm – 8 pm CBQ, mall branches: Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 2:30 pm/3:30 pm – 9 pm, Friday 3:30 pm – 9 pm Qatar Islamic Bank, Medina Centrale, The Pearl‑Qatar: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 6 pm QNB, City Center-Doha, Lagoona Mall and Doha Festival City: Friday 3:30 pm – 9 pm QNB, City Center-Doha and Lagoona Mall: Saturday 9 am – 2:30 pm/3:30 pm – 9 pm Digital branches/services: Apple Pay: Dukhan Bank, QNB HSBC Msheireb Downtown Digital branch: Sunday – Thursday 9:30am – 5 pm QIB Video Banking: via the QIB mobile app Virtual assistants: Dukhan Bank (Rashid), Qatar Islamic Bank (Zaki) QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Currency

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 in the 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.

The Banking Sector 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 with more than USD22 bn in assets. 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.

June 2020 saw negotiations open 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 entered into a merger agreement in January 2021, formally completed in November 2021. al khaliji's business has now been absorbed into Masraf Al Rayan's. The latter will be the remaining legal entity operating in accordance with Islamic Sharia principles, and is now one of the largest Sharia-compliant banks in Qatar and the region, with over QAR182 bn in total assets.

The Cabinet approved a draft resolution in December 2021, allowing a non-Qatari investor to own up to 100% of the capital in four banks: Commercial Bank of Qatar, Masraf Al Rayan, Qatar Islamic Bank, and Qatar National 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.

Banking and Finance

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 cease to be legal tender on 31 December 2021, although the public are able to change the old notes at Qatar Central Bank 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.

Both the Institute of International Finance and the Economist Intelligence Unit have noted that Qatar's banking system 'remains resilient' during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to fully service its debt obligations is good, thanks to ample foreign reserves and the assets of sovereign wealth fund Qatar Investment Authority (QIA).

Qatar Central Bank 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 is not just for banks, but includes insurance companies, exchange houses, Qatar Exchange and QFC‑registered entities. In November, Amiri Decision No 65 of 2021 appointed HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani as Governor of QCB. ©

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Banking and Finance

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. For those refusing to accept the legal tender of Qatar, there is a jail term of three years and/or a fine of up to QAR5 mn. 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.

Regulations in 2013 curbed investment options for local banks. Equities and bonds can account for up to 25% of a bank’s capital and reserves; debt issued by the government and national banks are exempt. There is also a limit on the amount placed with individual companies and unlisted securities: a maximum of 5% of capital and reserves for foreign investments and 10% domestically. Total foreign equities is capped at 15%.

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 – Chinese companies have become active partners in Qatar, and the RMB centre will facilitate trade via their agreement with QCB. qatarrmbcentre.com

The Second Strategic Plan for Financial Sector Regulation 2017–2022 QCB, the QFC Regulatory Authority (QFCRA) and the Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) jointly launched in December 2017 the Second Strategic Plan 2017–2022 for the future of financial sector regulation in Qatar, an extension of the First Strategic Plan 2013–2016. The new plan comprises five main goals: • Enhancing financial sector regulation and promoting regulatory cooperation.

• Developing financial markets and fostering financial innovation.

• Maintaining integrity of and confidence in the financial system.

• Promoting financial inclusion and financial literacy.

• Developing human capital.

The plan aims to create a regulatory framework allowing growth, is 'inclusive and sustainable', promotes innovation and fintech, and successfully tackles cyber-security threats. qcb.gov.qa

Qatar Credit Bureau 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. Qatar Credit 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, Bank Charges and Interest Rates

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 Financial Action Task Force, highlighting Qatar's regional role in setting standards in its legal and regulatory framework for combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

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.

Fintech regulations Noting the increasing growth and popularity of fintech, QCB has established the Fintech Regulatory Sandbox and launched Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH) as a means of boosting financial innovation, one of the objectives of its strategic plan (see below). The regulatory sandbox, co-founded by Qatar Development Bank, invites entities to safely live-trial their services in the digital payment services space. fintech.qa

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 maximum 50% of total monthly salary, and at a maximum 6.5% interest rate. For Qatari citizens there is a maximum loan of QAR2 mn over a maximum 72 months. Banks cannot use post‑dated cheques for the loan value.

QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Mortgages: Check with each bank first.

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; and 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.

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. This is the interest rate charged by banks in Qatar for interbank transactions.

As there is 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. In March 2020 the overnight lending rate was decreased to 2.5%, and the deposit rate and the repo rate to 1%.

Accounts 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.

International bank account number (IBAN): Adopted in January 2014 as a standard for identifying and numbering all bank accounts in Qatar, and effective from May 2014.

The system applies to all accounts in banks operating in the country, found on bank statements

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 but check with the individual bank.

• 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.

Banking and Finance

Credit cards: A maximum 12% annual interest rate and usually only issued when customers transfer their salary or have an adequate deposit at the bank.

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.

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 Labor and QCB. Employees therefore need a local bank account in order to receive their wages from the employer.

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 new 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. ©

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Banking and Finance

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.

Customers should notifiy their bank when travelling overseas and wishing to use their credit/debit cards. 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.

Complaints: Unresolved consumer complaints can be made online to QCB's Consumer Protection Department. qcb.gov.qa

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.

Financial Services and Insurance 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).

QCB continues to regulate and develop the insurance market as per international standards,

Islamic Finance Current Islamic institutions include Dukhan Bank, International Islamic, Masraf Al Rayan and Qatar Islamic Bank. Qatar First 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). m

Technology advancements in the banking system in Qatar are on the rise! Two new virtual assistants can help with your banking needs: Rashid at Dukhan Bank, and Zaki at Qatar Islamic Bank.

QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

Checked & Updated February 2022

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 licencing, 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.

in line with the Second Strategic Plan for Financial Sector Regulation 2017–2022. Decision No 7 of 2019 sets out further instructions for licensing, organising and supervising the services of supporting insurance providers. It sets out the competencies and expertise for each supporting insurance provider, the nature of the work, areas of responsibility and functions, and the establishment of professional and ethical codes of conduct.

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CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN QATAR! To join the Qatar British Business Forum please reach out to our team: officemanager@qbbf.com / www.qbbf.com

©

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Economy Economic Growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) One of the main aims of Qatar National Vision 2030 is to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on the hydrocarbon industries.

Economy

The economy has weathered the impact of both the COVID-19 pandemic and the blockade that was imposed on 5 June 2017, with positivity after borders reopened between Saudi Arabia and Qatar following the AlUla Declaration in January 2021.

Hydrocarbon exports were not affected. ​​ Qatar's Economic Outlook Report 2021–2023, released by the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA) in January 2022, estimates that the economy will recover in 2021 by 1.5% to 2.3%. It is expected to recover further in 2022, between 1.6% and 2.9%, mostly from the recovery of non-oil activities, with a growth rate of 2.8% to 4.7%.

GDP growth of between 1.5% and 2.3% was expected in 2021, and is expected to rise to between 1.6% and 2.9% in 2022 before stabilising in 2023 to between 0.7% and 1.8%. Due to the optimistic forecasts for the stability of oil and gas prices during 2021–2023, it is possible that the public finances will achieve a surplus of between 1.9% and 3.6% of GDP. According to PSA, Qatar’s quarterly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at current prices was QAR176.23 bn in Q3 2021, up 40.6% year-on-year (y-o-y) and up 12.8% against the Q2 2021 revised estimate of QAR156.29 bn. The quarterly GDP at constant prices was QAR168.13 bn, an increase of 2.6% y-o-y and up 4% against the Q2 2021 revised estimate of QAR161.71 bn.

Export, Import and Trade Surplus

Imports of goods in December 2021 was around QAR9.9 bn, an increase of 16.2% y-o-y, and an increase of 1.7% m-o-m. China was the main country of origin.

The foreign merchandise trade balance – the difference between total exports and imports – showed a surplus of QAR25.7 bn, an increase of QAR17.1 bn or 198.9% y-o-y, and an increase of nearly QAR1.2 bn or 4.7% m-o-m.

QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

The State Budget for 2022 was announced in December 2021, been based on a conservative average oil price of USD55 a barrel, up from USD40 in the 2021 budget. HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Finance, stated this was thanks to a recovery in global energy prices.

The oil revenue for 2022 has been estimated at QAR154 bn, up 26.6% on the previous year.

Despite the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy during the last two years, the State budget sees a significant increase compared to the previous year. There is an increase in revenues by 22.4% to QAR196.1 bn and an increase in expenditure by 4.9% to QAR204.3 bn, largely due to a temporary increase in current expenditure related to the hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. This gives a budget deficit of an estimated QAR8.3 bn, to be covered by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) from available resources or via debt instruments in domestic and international financial markets, as required.

The 2022 Budget shows that QAR74.0 bn has been allocated for major projects. The State will continue work on development projects related to infrastructure, citizens’ land development and public services.

As seen in previous budgets, investment continues to focus on the education and healthcare sectors.

Allocation for the education sector is QAR17.8 bn (8.7% of total expenditure), some of which will be directed towards the expansion of schools and educational facilities. There is QAR20 bn (9.8% of total expenditure) for the healthcare sector, for a number of projects and initiatives to improve the quality of healthcare services.

Inflation and Cost of Living For December 2021, the Consumer Price Index (CPI), used to calculate inflation rates in Qatar, reached 102.14 points, an increase of 0.65% m-o-m and an increase of 6.47% y-o-y. The Qatar Economic Outlook from PSA states imported and domestic inflation of 2%-3.5% is expected during 2021–23.

Population and the Labour Force Total population in January 2022 was 2,791,925: males 2,011,530; females 780,395. The Labour Force report for Q2 2021 showed the number of salaried workers decreased by 1.7% and the unemployment rate was 0.1%. m

Checked & Updated February 2022

In December 2021, the total exports of goods (including exports of goods of domestic origin and re-exports) amounted to around QAR35.6 bn, an increase of 107.8% y-o-y, and an increase of 3.8% month-on-month (m-o-m). The y-o-y increase was mainly due to higher exports of Petroleum gases/ other gaseous hydrocarbons. China was the main country of destination.

The Budget

Sources of information: International Monetary Fund (IMF); Ministry of Finance (MOF); Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA); Qatar Central Bank (QCB)

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Commerce

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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 blockade by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt, Qatar strengthened relations with a number of other countries such as Turkey, Oman, Kuwait, and India, and increased trade routes to mitigate exports and imports.

Organisation

Telephone

Online

Map

American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar

4020 6038

amchamqatar.org

C4

Communications Regulatory Authority

103/4406 9938

cra.gov.qa

C4

Department for International Trade (UK)

gov.uk

4445 7457

customs.gov.qa

C4

German Business Council Qatar

4431 1152

gbcqatar.qa

C4

Hukoomi (Qatar e-Government)

109/4406 9999

hukoomi.gov.qa/en

C4

Mada Assistive Technology Center

4459 4050

mada.org.qa

C4

Ministry of Commerce and Industry

16001

moci.gov.qa

A4

155

edu.gov.qa

C4

Ministry of Finance

16020/4446 1444

mof.gov.qa

C4

Ministry of Justice

137/4021 5555

moj.gov.qa

C4

Ministry of Municipality

184/4434 8888

mme.gov.qa

C4

4407 0000

moph.gov.qa

C3

16016/4045 1111

motc.gov.qa

C4

4495 8888

psa.gov.qa

C4

188/4495 1111

ashghal.gov.qa

C4

officemanager@qanzba.org

qanzba.org

Qatar British Business Forum

4496 2000

qbbf.com

Qatari Businessmen Association

4435 3120

qataribusinessmen.org

Qatari Business Women Association

4420 9109

See their Facebook page

Qatar Chamber

4455 9111

qatarchamber.com

D4

Qatar Development Bank

4430 0000

qdb.qa

D4

Qatar Stock Exchange

4433 3666

qe.com.qa

C4

Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)

4496 7777

qfc.qa

C4

Qatar Intl Court & Dispute Resolution Centre

4496 8225

qicdrc.com.qa

C4

Qatar Investment Authority

4499 5919

qia.qa

A4

Ministry of Education and Higher Education

Ministry of Public Health Ministry of Transport Planning and Statistics Authority Public Works Authority (Ashghal) Qatar Australia & New Zealand Bus Assoc

C4 C4

qpwn.org

Qatar Science & Technology Park

4454 7070

qstp.org.qa

C2

Qatar Tourism

4406 9921

visitqatar.qa

A4

QFC Regulatory Authority

4495 6888

qfcra.com

C4

Checked & Updated February 2022

Qatar Professional Women's Network

Commerce

+44 (0)20 7215 5000

General Authority of Customs

Embassies 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. ©

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Investment and Trade

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Qatar has one of the fastest growing global economies thanks to the third largest concentration of natural gas reserves in the world. Recent legal liberalisation, economic diversification and an expanding economy provides many investment opportunities for non‑Qataris. Investors are also able to enjoy unrivalled world connectivity via one of the largest ports in the region, Hamad Port, 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 construction, oil and gas, education, and financial and legal services, with opportunities in ICT, sport, leisure and healthcare.

Incentives The government welcomes foreign participation in joint ventures, with incentives for investment: • A developed infrastructure and ICT network.

• Natural gas, electricity, water and petroleum at subsidised rates.

• Land for industrial development in the Industrial Area near Doha for a nominal rent of QAR1 per square metre per year.

• 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.

Investment Regulations 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.

• 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.

Investment and Trade

• Easy access to world markets with good sea and air connections, continuously being upgraded.

• 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.

• 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 Al Ula 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); build-transfer©

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marhaba.qa 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.

Investment and Trade

Choosing A Business Structure 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).

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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.

• At least one new free zone has started accepting applications and international investors. Qatar Free Zones include: ° Um 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. ° Ras Bufontas, a 4 sq km site adjacent to Hamad International Airport – a technology and manufacturing hub for businesses requiring international connectivity.

• 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.

Decision No 163 of 2018 cancelled the requirement for signage at the house entrance.

Company Structures 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.

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marhaba.qa • 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.

• 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.

Commercial Registration (CR) 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 in order 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.

• Renewal is now possible online, with the relevant fees, at gov.qa

Exports According to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA), Qatar’s total exports (including exports of domestic goods and re-exports) in Q3 2021 amounted to QAR82.6 bn, for such things as mineral fuels, lubricants and chemicals, mainly to Asia. There are no duties on exports.

Imports According to PSA, imports in Q3 2021 totalled QAR24.8 bn, for crude materials, manufactured goods, chemicals and related products and mineral fuels, from Asia and the EU. 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).

Investment and Trade

• 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.

Export and Import

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 QR1,000 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. ©

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marhaba.qa 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).

Investment and Trade

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.

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. NB: The signing of AlUla Declaration regarding the blockade against Qatar means commercial cargo movement has resumed between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

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 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. In January 2016 GCC member states agreed to introduce VAT, tentatively set for early 2018. The Council of Ministers approved the Qatar Value Added Tax (VAT) Law and Excise Tax Law and Executive Regulations in May 2017, based on the unified GCC agreement. To date, only the Excise Tax has been implemented.

Intellectual Property 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, 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, and implementing regulations were issued by the Minister of Commerce and Industry under Decision No 153 of 2018.

Taxation

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.

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

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.

Points of entry Imports and exports are transitted via Hamad International Airport, Hamad Port, Doha Port, Mesaieed Port, Ras Laffan and the Salwa Overland Terminal.

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marhaba.qa Regulatory Bodies and Government‑owned Entities

Ministry of Finance (MOF) C4 Prepares the State Budget and proposes objectives and tools of financial policy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. 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. mof.gov.qa, customs.gov.qa, monaqasat.mof.gov.qa Ministry of Municipality and Ministry of Environment and Climate Change C4 The Foras investment portal promotes PPPs, currently for environmental, waste treatment, recycling and sustainability projects. mme.gov.qa Qatar Chamber (QC) D4 Provides a wide range of services and support to local and international businesses, including certificates of origin (COO) for import/export and ATA Carnet, acting as liaison for international business delegations, and providing training courses. QC services are also available to QFC‑licensed firms. The Qatar International Center for Conciliation & Arbitration (QICCA) was established in 2006 as part of QC to act 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 Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) C4 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

Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) A4 The country's sovereign wealth fund is a major investor in Qatar, owning 50% of Qatar National Bank, 55% of Ooredoo, and 100% of Katara Hospitality, and is a key shareholder in three local Islamic banks. Subsidiaries include: Qatar Holding, a global investment house established in 2006 and licensed by the Qatar Financial Centre Authority; Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, which oversees the Lusail City development among other projects; and Qatar Sports Investments, which owns football club Paris Saint‑Germain.

QIA has approximately USD300 bn in assets, although the fund does not publish its holdings.

Following a restructure in 2016, USD100 bn of investments in local companies were placed in a new unit, abandoning the Qatar Holding name. The new internal division, Qatar Investments, is known as QIA internationally.

QIA has reduced its direct holdings in Credit Suisse Group AG and Rosneft PJSC, and sold its share in Tiffany & Co in January 2021 to LVMH for USD1.5 bn. New investments include retail properties in New York City with Crown Acquisitions, and in Los Angeles with Douglas Emmett. The fund aims to invest USD45 bn in the US, GBP5 bn in the UK, and USD1 bn in sub-Saharan Africa. Following five years of redevelopment, 52 Champs-Elysées in Paris relaunched in 2019, home of the famous Galeries Lafayette. qia.qa

Investment and Trade

Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) A4 Creates commercial policy for both private and public sectors in order to boost regional and international trade relations and support the development of businesses across the country.

The ministry is a primary resource for information when opening a company and investing in Qatar, while Invest In Qatar is a useful tool for local and foreign investors and investment opportunities. moci.gov.qa, invest.gov.qa

modernised the legal infrastructure, while listing rules and a governance code for funds were issued in 2019. qfma.org.qa

Qatar Investments 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, 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, Rosneft PJSC, Royal Dutch Shell, Siemens, Societe Fonciere Lyonnaise SA, The Bürgenstock Selection, Total SA, Turkuvaz, Valentino Fashion Group SpA, Vente‑Privée, Vivendi, Volkswagen AG, Xstrata PLC. ©

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marhaba.qa

Investment and Trade

Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company A4 Projects include: Lusail City (Qatar); Chelsea Barracks and East Village (UK); and City Center DC (US). The Qatar Railways Development Company (Qatar Rail) was formed to oversee the Qatar Rail Development Programme: the Doha Metro, the Long Distance Rail, and the Lusail Tram. qataridiar.com Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) C2 Since 2009 QSTP has been a facility for applied research and commercialised technology in Energy, Environment, Health Sciences, and ICT. This free zone at Education City allows foreign companies to set up 100%‑owned businesses in Qatar free of tax and duties. Members must have technology development (eg applied research, development and testing of a product or service, or technology training) as their main activity. qstp.org.qa

Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) 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. There are two independent bodies: the QFC Authority (QFCA) and the QFC Regulatory Authority (QFCRA). To operate in or from the QFC, a firm needs to be incorporated or registered by the QFC Companies Registration Office, licensed by the QFCA, 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.

More than 1,100 local and international firms are currently registered, surpassing the 2019 target of 1,000 active firms by 2022. 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 QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

processed quickly, and firms have a dedicated Business Development Representative to coordinate setting up.

The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar, registered at the QFC since 2019, is a single source of investment solutions in Qatar by attracting foreign direct investment in all of the country’s priority sectors. qfc.qa, invest.qa The QFCA, 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 took over the chairmanship 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) 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 September 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. qicdrc.com.qa

Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) 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 in 2014 Qatar was added to the Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Market Index. It was upgraded in 2016 to Secondary Emerging Market by FTSE Russell.

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marhaba.qa Trading in treasury bills began in 2011 and in 2012 the Venture Market for SMEs was launched, after the QFMA adopted new listing and initial public offerings (IPO) rules in the secondary market.

Real Estate Under Law No 16 of 2018 on the regulation of non-Qatari ownership and utilisation of real estate, implemented in March 2019, 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'.

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. The Ministry of Justice is the one-stop-shop for all transactions regarding non-Qatari ownership of real estate.

Freehold developments The number of areas non‑Qataris can own and use

Al Qassar (administrative area 60) Al Dafna (administrative area 61) Onaiza (administrative area 63) • West Bay (66) The Pearl-Qatar (66) • Lusail (69) • Al Khraij (69) Jabal Theyleeb (69) • Al Khor Resort (74)

Foreign companies can also own properties in these nine areas. The law offers an atttractive 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 designated areas: • Msheireb (area 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) All of these areas can be found on the map of Greater Doha in the Discovering Qatar section. m Developers and Real Estate Agents Selling Property and Land (for letting agents see Living in Qatar) Cushman & Wakefield Direct Real Estate Just Real Estate New Methods United Development Company

4483 7388 4442 1472 4491 3300 4410 8000 4409 5155

Some tips on business etiquette 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, and women should cover upper arms and knees. Handshaking is common but when meeting Arab people of the opposite sex it is best to wait for them to initiate a handshake.

Some other cultural nuances include: • Do not rely too much on email • Oral commitments at meetings may be deemed binding, written agreements may not • Appointments should be reconfirmed on the day • While English is widely spoken, the language of government is Arabic • Sit and talk with your host on general matters before approaching business. ©

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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 non-Qataris 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.

• • • • •

Investment and Trade

There are 47 listed companies on the main market and 2 companies on the venture market, and 7 brokerage firms (February 2022). Residents, expats and individual companies are all able to invest. Traders must open an account with one of the brokerage firms, who will act as an intermediary for all transactions and provide a National Investor Number for a fee of QAR100.

Traders must also register at Qatar Central Securities Depository (QCSD), established by QCB and licensed by QFMA to provide safekeeping, clearing and settlement of securities and other financial instruments listed on the exchange. qe.com.qa, qcsd.com.qa

freehold property has been increased from three to nine designated areas:

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FEATURE

Data Privacy Protection Law Guidelines Issued

By Sarah Palmer

R

ecognising the need to develop an international regulatory and legal framework in order to protect the digital sovereignty and data privacy of individuals and businesses in Qatar, Personal Data Privacy Protection Law (PDPPL) No 13 of 2016 was issued.

The law includes provisions related to the rights of individuals to protect the privacy of their personal data. Article 2 states that this refers only to personal data that is electronically processed, or obtained, gathered or extracted for use electronically, or when a combination of electronic and traditional processing is used. However, it does not apply to personal data processed by individuals privately or within a family context, or to any personal data gathered for official surveys and statistics, as per Law No 2 of 2011 on Official Statistics.

Under the law, businesses are banned from sending direct marketing messages electronically without obtaining an individual’s prior consent, and that consent is required from individuals before their personal information can be used by another entity.

Organisations must also adhere to basic data protection responsibilities. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring data handlers receive training and that precautions in place to 'protect personal data from loss, damage, modification, disclosure or being illegally accessed.'

Protection is given to personal data of a private nature, such as information relating to race, religious beliefs, children, health, relationships and criminal records – this may only be processed after obtaining permission from the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC).

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Additionally, in order to protect the youngest members of society, Article 17 states that the owner or operator of any website related to children must put up a policy about how it manages the information of minors. Website owners/operators must also get the consent of the child’s parent when processing their information.

It should be noted that entities that operate within the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) are subject to the QFC's own Data Protection Rules and Data Protection Regulations from 2005.

The need for the law and the guidelines According to Dr Ahmed Elmagarmid, Executive Director at Qatar Computing Research Institute, speaking at a recent online panel discussion, 'most nation states have data related laws to strengthen their nation's ability to act independently in the digital world. However, there is a lack of collaboration among nations in developing international regulations or laws on data sovereignty and privacy.'

He added that there have been more than 600 state-sponsored cyber-attacks in the last decade, and that the rate is increasing. 'There is a lack of international law or accord to regulate the use of cyberwarfare or the Geneva Convention equivalent for cyberwarfare. Also, one of the challenges in cyber security is the lack of collaboration among countries in sharing data. Similarly, banks are not sharing information about the nature of the attacks because they are worried about the financial implications, while the attackers share information very widely on the dark web.

MoTC, Qatar Development Bank, Qatar Business Incubation Centre, and Qatar Science and Technology Park are all working together to develop mechanisms to protect data and develop both defensive and offensive capabilities. Meanwhile,

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the MoTC, Ministry of Interior, National Cyber Security Research Lab, and other entities are collaborating to develop local capabilities and technologies on data sovereignty.

With the country racing towards total digitalisation by 2030, there is a need for more transparency, awareness and education. Qatar is at the forefront of adopting regulation, moving quicker than others in the region. To this end, MoTC released the guidelines for the Personal Data Privacy Protection Law on 28 January 2021 to mark Data Privacy Day. The Compliance and Data Protection (CDP) Department at MoTC has released the guidelines to help everyone – whether as individuals, regulated entities or stakeholders – to understand their responsibilities, rights and practices under the law.

CDP has developed the guidelines so that organisations can understand their obligations under the PDPPL, to provide clarity on these requirements, and where possible provide checklists and template documents to support controllers with compliance with the PDPPL. The guidelines apply to any organisation or entity that processes personal data, through electronic means or in combination with nonelectronic means, and clarify some ambiguities in the PDPPL. For example, under Article 11 (8), controllers must ensure that processors comply with the law and adopt appropriate precautions to protect personal data. The Controller and Processor Guidelines for Regulated Entities have now clarified that the controller can ensure a processor's compliance with this Article by entering into a formal contract. This contract must state the subject matter, duration of the data processing, the nature and purpose of the data processing, the types of personal data being processed and the categories of individuals being processed, the controller's duties and rights.

It must also address security measures, duties of confidentiality, audit rights and individuals' rights.

There is now clarification over Article 16 of the law, which provides that in order to process sensitive personal data, permission must be sought from the Compliance and Data Protection Department under the Special Nature Processing Guidelines. These

also set out the requirements in order to obtain permission, including a data protection impact assessment to identify processing risks.

Equally, under Article 22 consent must be obtained from individuals before sending any direct marketing electronic communications. Again this has been clarified under the Electronic Communications for Direct Marketing Guidelines: consent must be explicit and unambiguous, and an affirmative act – consent through pre-ticked boxes and opt-out notices only is not permitted.

What this means for organisations and individuals Given the size and range of organisations subject to the law – from multinational companies to local stores – the guidelines are flexible, and the onus is on the entity to review how they process personal data and take responsibility for it. This may entail using tools such as a personal data management system, a record of processing activities, and the data protection impact assessment mentioned above, in order to protect personal data and the rights of the individual.

The guidelines can also provide guidance to individuals on their rights under the PDPPL. This includes the right to give or withdraw consent to any processing of their personal data. There is also has the right to review any of their personal data being stored, and to request any modifications or corrections if the information is inaccurate.

As such, should an individual feel that their personal data is not protected or is being used unlawfully, controllers are required to ensure that individuals are able to make complaints to them. Complaints can also be made directly to CDP, and the guidelines set out in more detail about the individuals' rights in these instances.

One important concern for individuals is the use of social media platforms and its part in sharing personal data. Guidelines are therefore in place advising how individuals can protect their personal data when using social media and ensure privacy.

The guidelines are available at compliance.qcert.org.

Contact CDP for more information: 4406 9991, cdp-privacy@motc.gov.qa, motc.gov.qa m ©

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Meet La’eeb, the Official Mascot for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™!

Meaning ‘super-skilled player’, La’eeb belongs to a parallel mascot-verse that is indescribable – he encourages everyone to believe in themselves as ‘Now is All’. La’eeb will be known for his youthful spirit, as he aims to spread joy and confidence to the world. Fans will be able to download GIFs and stickers via social media channels, as well as screensavers and filters.

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– meet La’eeb!

Al Rihla has been revealed by adidas as the Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

The 14th successive ball created by adidas for the FIFA World Cup™ is designed to support peak game speeds, as it travels faster in flight than any ball in the tournament’s history.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Official Soundtrack has been released! The uplifting single Hayya Hayya (Better Together) features US star Trinidad Cardona, Afrobeats icon Davido, and Qatari sensation Aisha, and is the first of a selection of singles to be released from the multi-song FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Official Soundtrack.

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The Hydrocarbon Industry

The Hydrocarbon Industry

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 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. QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

Qatar's Energy Companies QatarEnergy Formerly known as Qatar Petroleum, the company was 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 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.

QatarEnergy 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.

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marhaba.qa 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 North Field Expansion Project, with four new LNG trains to raise LNG production capacity from 77 mn tons per annum (MTPA) to 110 MTPA, as well as 4,000 tons per day (tpd) of ethane, 260,000 bpd of condensate, 11,000 tpd of LPG, and approximately 20 tpd of pure helium.

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: Qatargas, 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, and Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard.

The North Field is the largest single non-associated gas reservoir in the world, an area of 6,000 sq km with total recoverable gas of 900 tn standard cubic feet. Using this field’s massive reserves will continue the development and prosperity of the country.

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 QatarEnergy Refinery, while condensates are sent to the QatarEnergy Refinery in Mesaieed. qatarenergy.qa

Qatargas The largest LNG producer in the world, operating 14 LNG trains with a total annual production capacity of 77 MTPA. Established in 1984, the first production was in 1996. Qatargas now delivers cargos to 31 countries to meet the world’s demand for safe, reliable and clean energy. Additionally, Qatargas is a leading exporter of natural gas, helium, condensate and associated products.

Qatargas 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. qatargas.com

The Hydrocarbon Industry

• A new Petrochemicals Complex in Ras Laffan Industrial City with partner Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC. The complex will have an ethane cracker with a nameplate capacity of 1.9 mn tons of ethylene per annum, making it the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world.

Mesaieed Industrial City (MIC), 40 km south of Doha, is a hub for petrochemicals, chemical fertilisers, oil refining and metallurgical industries.

Industries in MIC: QatarEnergy’s Mesaieed Operations and Refinery, Qatar Petrochemical Co, Qatar Fertiliser Co, Qatar Chemical Co, Qatar Steel, Qatar Aluminium Co, Qatar Vinyl Co and Qatar Fuel Additives Co.

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 QatarEnergy, making QatarEnergy the ultimate parent of the company.

QAFCO inaugurated its first plant in 1973 – today there are six ammonia and six urea completely integrated trains, a melamine plant and two urea formaldehyde plants. 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. QAFCO also has two urea formaldehyde plants producing 60,000 MTPA of UFC85, the anti caking agent vital to urea production. Meanwhile, the Qatar Melamine Plant is the largest in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world, with a production capacity of 60,000 MTPA. qafco.com

Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) Established in 1974 and a joint venture between IQ (80%) and TotalEnergies (20%). QAPCO is ©

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marhaba.qa

The Hydrocarbon Industry

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 liquid petroleum gases (LPG) with an annual capacity of up to 55,000 MTA and hydrogenated pyrolysis gasoline with a capacity of up to 45,000 MTA. qapco.com

Qatar Plastic & Wooden Products Co (QPPC) Established in 1998 with commercial production commencing in 2000. The company is owned by shareholders QAPCO and Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Co. Around 90% of production is sold domestically with the remainder marketed in other Gulf countries and Europe. The production facility is located at Mesaieed Industrial City, producing plastic film for industrial packaging. The company produces form, fill and seal film, shrinkable film and hood, construction foil, greenhouse and agricultural film, general purpose film, heavy duty trash bags, and wood-plastic composite.

Qatar Wooden Products Co commenced commercial production in 2013, a fully automatic wooden pallet production line and heat treatment facility able to produce 1.6 mn wooden pallets a year for QAPCO and other petrochemical companies. qppc.net

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 QatarEnergy. The majority is exported to the Far East, Europe, India and the GCC region.

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 QatarEnergy. It is then used by the QatarEnergy 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 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

Qatar Chemical Company Ltd (Q-Chem) Owned by Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Company QSC (MPHC) (49%), Chevron Phillips Chemical International Qatar Holdings LLC (49%), and QatarEnergy (2%). MPHC is majority owned

by QatarEnergy. 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 QatarEnergy, produces 1.3 MTPA of ethylene cracker and is operated by Q‑Chem II. qchem.com.qa

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%), QatarEnergy (10%) and Gulf Investment Corporation of Kuwait (10%). RLPC has a 25year Power and Water Purchase Agreement with Kahramaa and a 25-year Fuel and Seawater Supply Agreement with QatarEnergy. The RLPC 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

North Oil Company (NOC) A joint venture to operate and further develop the Al Shaheen oil field for the next 25 years, owned

by QatarEnergy (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

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

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marhaba.qa International Companies ConocoPhillips

ExxonMobil One of the largest publicly traded international energy refiners and chemical companies. In Qatar, ExxonMobil has partnered with QatarEnergy 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 QatarEnergy 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 QatarEnergy through technical services and secondments of ExxonMobil employees, while at ExxonMobil Research Qatar at QSTP research is conducted in areas of mutual interest. exxonmobil.com.qa

ORYX GTL Ltd

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 QatarEnergy in ORYX GTL, which uses Sasol proprietary GTL technology to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products. sasol.com

Shell The largest international investor in Qatar.

QatarEnergy 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 (QatarEnergy 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

TotalEnergies A broad energy company that produces and markets oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables, and electricity. Active in more than 130 countries, 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 m Qatargas has played an important role in preserving the country's environment.

Under the Coral Management Programme (left), more than 7,500 live corals have been moved from nearshore pipelines to offshore protected areas, including over 400 artificial reef modules at several marine locations around Qatar. Meanwhile, the company's Jetty Boil-Off Gas Recovery Facility was awarded a Qatar Sustainability Award in 2018 by the Qatar Green Building Council, for its part in minimising flaring at the Liquefied Natural Gas loading berths in Ras Laffan Industrial City. ©

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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 QatarEnergy 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

Sasol

The Hydrocarbon Industry

The world’s largest independent exploration and production company based on proved reserves and production of liquids and natural gas with operations and activities in 20 countries. In Qatar, the ConocoPhillips Global Water Sustainability Center at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) focuses on innovative solutions to treat produced water from the oil and gas industry as well as desalination, recycling, awareness and conservation. CSR in Qatar includes the Kulluna Health and Safety campaign, in partnership with Hamad Medical Corporation. conocophillips.com

and marketed by Qatar International Petroleum Marketing Co (Tasweeq) to customers in the Middle East and Far East. oryxgtl.com.qa

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FEATURE

Qatargas' Coral Reef Project

By Sarah Palmer

An ambitious Coral Management Programme focused on sustaining and preserving Qatar’s marine biodiversity has been successfully overseen by Qatargas, in collaboration with the former Ministry of Municipality and Environment and Qatar University.

T

he Coral Management Programme (CMP) undertaken by Qatargas is aligned with the Environmental Developmental Pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, and is based on artificial reef deployment and coral relocation, as well as the first of its kind land-based coral nursery.

Also under the programme is a long-term comprehensive plan to monitor the relocated corals.

These relocation zones will eventually be handed over to the now Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and become part of Qatar’s protected natural reserve.

Qatargas has played an important role in preserving the country's marine biodiversity. Since 2007 the company has relocated more than 7,500 live corals from nearshore pipelines to offshore protected areas, including over 400 artificial reef modules at several marine locations around Qatar.

Qatargas' current Coral Management Programme has been implemented to mitigate the North Field Production Sustainability (NFPS) Project. As part of

QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

the programme, over 150 sets of hybrid artificial reefs were deployed near Al Ghariya in northern Qatar.

These reef modules were locally fabricated using an environmentally-friendly concrete mix, and deployed following a comprehensive Marine Environmental Assessment of the Al Ghariya site. The deployment was followed by meticulous relocation of 1,250 live corals from the NFPS project site to Al Ghariya.

The CMP also includes the establishment of a unique land-based Coral Nursery at the Aquatic Fisheries Research Center (AFRC) in Ras Matbakh in northern Qatar. Over 400 live corals were taken to the nursery for coral husbandry and the extracted corals were rehabilitated and fragmented.

The fragmented corals were then out-planted to carefully selected recipient sites north of Sheraoh Island. In order to see first-hand and have a better understanding of the nursery programme, a team of officials from the Ministry, Qatargas and QU paid a visit to the AFRC lab, discussing the project with the scientists and researchers.

The Coral Nursery can potentially become a National Coral Bank, which will allow it to contribute to future marine biodiversity and coral protection projects, both in Qatar and the region. It will additionally

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optimise the Technological Readiness Level (TRL) of the procedures and facilities for propagation of local coral species in a land-based nursery. This unique programme is expected to pave the way forward for sustainable marine ecosystem preservation methods.

Why it is important to preserve coral reefs Coral reefs host a unique and fragile ecosystem that is under threat from human activities and global warming. The reefs are built on a symbiotic relationship between sea animals (scleractinian corals) and micro-algae (zooxanthellae). Despite occupying less than 0.1% of the ocean floor, they are home to 25% of all marine species, further highlighting their crucial role in marine biotopes.

Coral reefs are primarily located in shallow coastal areas, providing a range of ecosystem services and helping protect shorelines from erosion and waves. Carbon is trapped in the calcium carbonate skeletons, meaning that corals can create a large amount of carbon to reduce levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere.

QU was part of another collaboration in 2021 with the TotalEnergies Research Center-Qatar (TRCQ). Under the project, 18 REEF modules will be submerged 20 m into the water with the colonised modules relocated after two years to test their mobility. This trial is to be included in a thesis on coral restoration and underwater monitoring and is part of TotalEnergie's efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their operations.

The REEF project began in 2016 in partnership with Seaboost, a company that develops and provides eco-design solutions for better environmental integration of maritime structures into their ecosystem. This is achieved by developing an artificial object (a REEF module) with similar characteristics like structure, porosity and pH, to encourage coral larvae (planulae) to settle, develop and survive. Once colonised by the coral, the REEF module is relocated to a damaged site to allow reseeding by larvae to ultimately restore large areas of coral reefs over long distances.

This isn't Qatargas' first initiative to protect the environment. In November 2018, the Jetty Boil-Off Gas (JBOG) Recovery Facility was awarded a Qatar Sustainability Award by the Qatar Green Building Council, a member of Qatar Foundation. The awards recognise the contributions of individuals, institutions and organisations in furthering sustainable development and environmental protection in Qatar and beyond, and are supported by the Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah International Foundation for Energy and Sustainable Development.

Initiated by Qatar Energy (formerly Qatar Petroleum) in 2004, and built and operated by Qatargas, the JBOG Recovery Facility minimises flaring at the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) loading berths in Ras Laffan City. Operations commenced in October 2014 from Q-Max ship Zarga, and today recovers more than 90% of the boil-off gas that was previously flared near the jetties. This boil-off gas is collected and transported to a central compressor before returning it to the LNG plants where it is used as fuel gas, or converted back into LNG. The JBOG facility reduces jetty flaring by 90% and CO2 emissions by approximately 1.6 mn tonnes per annum, equivalent to the emissions of 175,000 cars. The facility supports the environmental protection and sustainability targets of Qatar National Vision 2030, and also the State of Qatar’s commitment to reduce climate-changing carbon emissions. m

©

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Infrastructure in Qatar gas and petrochemicals industries. However the government is diversifying economic development elsewhere, especially in view of lower oil prices.

Spending on infrastructural projects is again a primary focus in the State Budget for 2022, not only for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, but also for the education and healthcare sectors – see Economy in this section for details.

Infrastructure in Qatar

Conferences and Exhibitions

Lusail Towers, designed by Foster + Partners

Qatar National Vision 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 in 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 2017–2022 was released in December 2017 by HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the previous Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, prepared by the Planning and Statistics Authority and other entities.

Economic Strategy 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, QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

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 includes 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, high-tech meeting and conference rooms, and underground parking. Located in Al Dafna, the venue has five exhibition halls, which can be used as one hall of 29,000 sq m thanks to a unique wall partition system. The 18-metre high ceiling is the highest in the Middle East, supported by a revolutionary cantilever roof and is pillar-free.

Annual business conferences and exhibitions include Project Qatar, QITCOM, and Cityscape Qatar, as well as the Arab Future Cities Summit, the Green Building Expo, the World Stadium Congress, trade summits and conferences.

Spectacular Buildings 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 people in 2010 to nearly 2.8 mn in February 2022, 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

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marhaba.qa 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, now dwarfed by the other hotels, office towers and apartment blocks nearby.

Developments to Infrastructure The public-private partnership (PPP) law, approved by the Cabinet in April 2019, will support projects connected to Qatar National Vision 2030 and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The PPPs will be used for a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, sports, real estate and infrastructure.

The State Budget for 2022 is based on an average oil price of USD55 a barrel, with expenditure increasing by 4.9% to QAR204.3 bn – QAR74.0 bn has been allocated for major projects, largely due to a temporary increase in current expenditure related to the hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The State will continue work on development projects related to infrastructure, citizens’ land development and public services.

Read more about the 2022 State Budget in Economy, in this section.

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. Key projects include the Expressway Programme, roads and drainage under the Local Areas Infrastructure Programme, and the Inner Doha Re-sewerage Implementation Strategy.

Ashghal launched its Corporate Strategy 2018– 2022 under the authority's new vision ‘Excellence in delivering and managing efficient sustainable infrastructure’, with 10 objectives to accomplish its mission of ‘continuously enhancing customer satisfaction through leading project and asset management services and solutions’.

Ashghal's Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places develops major roads, pedestrian and cycle paths, and landscaping, to include parks. More than 15,000 trees and shrubs have already been planted under the G Ring Road Development Project, and 30,000 on Al Khor Road.

Ashghal’s Local Areas Infrastructure Programme won the International Green Apple Environment Award 2021.

Comprising more than 70 projects under construction across Qatar, as well as those in the design, tender, and award stages, the aim is to use recycled materials and reduce carbon emissions where possible.

Numerous expressway projects have brought great benefits to navigating around the country. On Al Majd Road, Road 2 links Mesaieed Industrial City with Lusail City, while Road 4 links Mall of Qatar with Ras Laffan. Works on the superhighway Dukhan Road and the B Ring Road development project are both nearing completion.

Infrastructuree in Qatar

Demand for town centre real estate has grown, with more luxurious living and working environments, forcing the city upwards. The traditional inwardlooking, small‑windowed, courtyard dwellings – cooled naturally or via a wind tower and vented walls – reflect the limitations of building materials and technology at the time. Now developments in glass technology and energy‑efficient, eco‑friendly air conditioning allows Qatar to build green.

Construction has now been completed on the sewage network in the inner Doha areas, which will enhance efficiency and prevent pollution. Sewage infrastructure requirements continue around the country, and includes the Mesaimeer Pumping Station and Outfall – at 10 km in length, this is one of the longest outfall tunnels in the world.

In December 2021, Ashghal handed over 50 new parking lots to the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy in time for the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup™ – they will also be used for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The lots have capacity for more than 50,000 cars and 5,600 buses, serving the stadiums, the Metro's Park and Ride system, and Karwa's bus network.

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 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. ©

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Infrastructure in Qatar

An ambitious strategic plan sees Kahramaa investing QAR38 bn to meet the increasing demands made to the electricity and water supply, with a further QAR6 bn after 2022. This includes five mega water reservoirs to be online by 2026 to provide storage for 2,300 mn gallons a day of water, while the power generation phase will produce 2,520 megawatts of electricity. The plant will add around 30% water and 25% electricity of local demand once fully completed.

The Smart Metering Infrastructure Project is a state-of-the-art platform for deploying smart meters in Qatar. Kahramaa aims to install 600,000 advanced digital meters, which will allow customers to monitor their consumption. This is in line with the corporation's National Program for Conservation and Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed).

Selected Megaprojects in Qatar Qatar is undertaking a number of megaprojects to satisfy QNV 2030 and the football event, good news for both local and international businesses.

These include projects with Qatar Rail, Qatar Free Zones Authority, the North Field Expansion under QatarEnergy, and the proposed expansion of Hamad International Airport. Here are just a few:

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM qatar2022.qa Previously known as the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) has signed stakeholder agreements with Qatar Rail, Ashghal, Kahramaa, Aspire Zone Federation and Qatari Diar, for projects to deliver the infrastructure for the event.

The Official Emblem was unveiled in Doha on 2 September 2019 at 20:22 local time, with the synchronised projection of the emblem onto a number of prominent buildings. The new stadiums, designed by the world's leading architects, reflect aspects of Qatari culture, and take into consideration three priorities: access and comfort, sustainability, and post-tournament legacy. Fans are able see more than one match a day, as the longest distance between venues is just 55 km.

• Khalifa International Stadium: Originally built in 1976, the stadium reopened in May 2017 following its renovation.

• Al Janoub Stadium: Designed by the late Zaha Hadid and inspired by traditional dhow boats, the 40,000‑seater venue will become the home of Al Wakra Sports Club with 20,000 seats donated to football projects overseas. The stadium opened on 16 May 2019 for the final of the Amir's Cup. • Al Bayt Stadium: A 60,000 seater-stadium QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

which will be home to Al Khor Sports Club. The design is based on a Bedouin tent, and will have a retractable roof. After the tournament the stadium's modular seating will reduce to 32,000 with the surplus seats donated to global football development projects. The official opening of AI Bayt Park took place on 11 February 2020, National Sport Day. • Education City Stadium: The 40,000-seat venue will in legacy mode become a sports, leisure and social hub for students and local sports clubs.

Half the seats will be donated to stadiums around the world. The stadium was officially completed on 15 June 2020.

• Ahmad bin Ali Stadium: An undulating façade and sand dune-shaped structures uses environmentally friendly building materials and practices, with a renewable energy generation system on site. The new home of Al Rayyan Club, nearly half of the 40,000 modular seats will be donated overseas. The stadium opened 18 December 2020 for the Amir Cup final.

• Al Thumama Stadium: Designed by Qatari architect Ibrahim M Jaidah, representing the traditional gahfiya, in legacy mode, seating will be reduced from 40,000 to 20,000. The stadium was inaugurated during the 49th Amir Cup Final on 22 October 2021.

• Stadium 974 (previously Ras Abu Aboud Stadium): Built from shipping containers and modular steel, the 40,000-seater stadium is the first fully reusable FIFA stadium. The stadium was inaugurated on 20 November 2021.

• Lusail Stadium: Seating 80,000, the stadium in Lusail City will host the opening and closing ceremonies, matches throughout the tournament, and the final, to be held on Qatar National Day, 18 December. Its design is inspired by the fanar lantern and the motifs on bowls and other vessels seen throughout history in the Arab world.

After the tournament, the venue will become a community space with schools, shops, cafés, sporting facilities and clinics.

Sustainability is an integral part of the project.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Sustainability Progress Report is available online, in a format which enables FIFA, SC and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22) to continuously update stakeholders on progress and performance regarding tournament sustainability efforts.

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

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marhaba.qa population. The company is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire network and systems.

• Qetaifan Island North: A mixed-use project with a beach club, a linear park and a floating hotel.

Qetaifan Projects is owned by Katara Hospitality.

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.

Residents have access to essential services with work continuing on supporting infrastructure.

• The Red Line is about 40 km running from Al Wakra in the south to Lusail in the north, with a connection to Hamad International Airport.

There are 18 stations, and passengers can 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 with 11 stations.

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

The flagship project of Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, the QAR20 bn restoration of a 31 hectare site.

Msheireb means ‘a place to drink water’ in Arabic, and is the historical name of downtown Doha.

The 'smart city with soul' is aiming for Gold or Platinum LEED Certification. The recently launched Doha Design District, a new design and innovation hub, will grant free zone status to occupants from a multitude of business sectors.

MDD is divided into five broad quarters, with hospitality, retail, residential and commercial areas. Barahat Msheireb is the region’s largest covered public square, anchored by the Cultural Forum and the Mandarin Oriental Doha hotel. The Heritage quarter features four historic houses that have been restored and turned into museums.

The Diwan Amiri quarter comprises the Diwan Annexe, Amiri Guard building and Qatar National Archive, while Sikkat Wadi Msheireb is fully pedestrianised with the Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery Hotel Collection and the Park Hyatt Hotel.

MDD is the central interchange for the Doha Metro, with other methods of transportation underground for a pedestrian‑friendly atmosphere. The MDD tram is available to transport visitors.

Read more about MDD in Discovering Qatar. m Checked & Updated February 2022

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 is master planned to accommodate more than 450,000 residents and visitors. Launched in 2004, features include:

Msheireb Downtown Doha msheireb.com

• Energy City: A centre for government ministries, and public and private company headquarters.

• Fox Hills district: Housing for 40,000 residents, with a hospital, schools and mosques.

• Place Vendôme: Inspired by Paris' Rue de la Paix.

A mixed-use project with a mall and luxury retail wing, two five-star hotels (Le Royal Meridien and Palais Vendôme), a luxury collection hotel (Le Royal Meridien Residences) and entertainment aeas.

Infrastructuree in Qatar

The Doha Metro: Three lines covering 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 project has been conducted over multiple phases, phase one includes three lines (Red, Gold, and Green) which are now open to the public.

Read more about Lusail City in Discovering Qatar.

Katara Towers at Lusail is the first hospitality project in Qatar to receive a GSAS Design & Build 5 Stars rating at the design stage. ©

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EXTRAORDINARY AWAITS YOU WE BUILD MORE THAN JUST STRUCTURES

www.qetaifanprojects.com QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

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FEATURE

Les Vagues residences by Elie Saab

Qetaifan Island North

By Sarah Palmer

L

ocated off Lusail City, and designed to be Qatar’s future iconic destination, the land spans approximately 1.3 mn square metres (sq m), with 281,766 sq m of waterpark alone.

The island also features exciting entertainment attractions that the whole family can enjoy, in addition to diversified waterfronts, distinct neighbourhoods, luxurious hotels, pedestrian friendly streets, living gardens, and world-class facilities that make it a modern, globally-competitive community with a unique design that is inspired by the rich culture and nature of the region.

The Island also features unique residential villa plots with exceptional waterfront views, allowing the ultimate comfort and relaxtion for its residents.

The sales launch of Qetaifan Island North Phase 3 villa plots began in March 2022. At the press confrence held for the sales launch of Phase 3, HE Sheikh Nasser bin AbdulRahman Al Thani, Managing Director of Qetaifan Projects, stated that Phase 1 and Phase 2 villa plots sales exceeded QAR1 bn in just 12 months.

HE Sheikh Nasser added that the sales launch of Phase 3 consists of serviced villa plots with a unique competitive design at regional and global levels, comprising beach access and garden view villa plots.

Moreover, for the first time, there will be villa plots with a distinctive view of Qetaifan Island North’s Linear Canal and the sea. Additionally, it was disclosed during the press confrence that the plot area ranges from 800 to 1,144 sq m.

QATAR BUSINESS AND ECONOMY E-GUIDE ©

HE Sheikh Nasser added: 'We have introduced new plots due to the remarkable demand for ownership on Qetaifan Island North and in response to the requirements of the market, which has been witnessing remarkable growth lately, especially after the implementation of the Freehold Law for non-Qataris, in addition to allowing those who have not had the chance to own plots in phase 1 and 2, at competitive prices and financing facilities for both owners and investors.'

Also announced in March 2022 was a collaboration between Qetaifan Projects and Dar Al Arkan, a real estate company in Saudi Arabia. Les Vagues residences by Elie Saab is a unique, premium project inspired by the beauty of the natural world surrounding QIN. Les Vagues, meaning 'waves' in French, reflects luxury island life with clean and contemporary lines, softened by carefully selected palms and tropical foliage.

The one, two and three-bedroom seafront residencies feature balconies and terraces with floor-to-ceiling windows for residents to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the sea.

Meanwhile, the interiors incorporate designer Elie Saab's signature style, with luxurious touches and an exceptional level of quality.

This marks Dar Al Arkan’s first entry into Qatar's real estate market. The development of Les Vagues residences will start in Q2 2022; total sales are expected to reach over QAR1 bn.

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Icon Tower and Waterpark

About Qetaifan Island North The island is the first and main project of Qetaifan Projects, a real estate development company founded in October 2017, fully owned by Katara Hospitality, a leading global hotel owner, developer and operator based in Qatar.

Qetaifan Projects aims to support the country's long-term economic vision by building cities with sustainable and intelligent infrastructure. Katara Hospitality aims to change the world of hospitality through investment and innovation, leaving a prominent legacy for future generations in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Qetaifan Island North is a unique project spanning approximately 1.3 mn sq m with 869,266 sq m of vibrant attractions and entertainment facilities.

It will feature six beaches, making the island an important part of Lusail City's distinct waterfront.

Work is underway continuously at QIN, with more than 7,000 workers, seven contractors and seven different project packages. The island project is ideal for visitors coming later in the year for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, given its close proximity to Lusail Stadium.

QIN promises to be a thriving waterfront hub representing a new, modern lifestyle. The island is inspired by the rich culture and nature of the region, and will feature unrivalled accommodation,

exceptional retail options, and world-class facilities that will make it a vibrant and attractive community.

One of the main attractions is the state-of-the-art waterpark. All of the rides are inspired by Qatari culture and based on the oil and gas industry.

Across the 280,000 sq m site will be 36 different rides, including the 85-metre Icon Tower, the highest water slide in the world and situated on a small island opposite Qetaifan Island North. Linked by an overwater bridge, thrillseekers can access the Icon Tower by a train that passes by the bridge.

Luxurious hotels like the Rixos Beach Resort will surround the waterpark, where hotel guests, residents and visitors can enjoy shop at the retail plaza and souq. The latter will overlook the Linear Park, the main artery of the island, linking all zones together. An artificial Salt Lake is linked to the sea, allowing visitors to enjoy fishing, boating and plenty of other family-friendly fun activities. Spread over the lakeside are community facilities, such as snack stalls, prayer rooms, seating, as well as meeting rooms, game rooms, and a kid’s club.

If you prefer to relax in style, Qetaifan Island has seven private beaches, featuring a clubhouse that offers an assemblage of activities to be enjoyed by the whole family.

For more information, visit qetaifanprojects.com m Qetaifan Projects recently received recognition from the International Property Awards in the UK, where awards are granted to real estate developers for developing and implementing megaprojects that aim to achieve long-term sustainability.

The Qetaifan Island North project won for the Best Sustainable Residential Development and the Best Mixed-Use Development at the Arab regional level, as well as winning the Best Mixed-Use Development in the World. ©

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WE ARE CHANGING THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY. Pride is what we feel when we look at our past. Passion is what inspires our present.

Perfection is our plan for tomorrow.

Katara Hospitality. Rejuvenating the iconic. Inspiring the future. Welcoming the world.

katarahospitality.com

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Q A T A R

Reach the future first and win.

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