Qatar’s massive investments in innovation and digital technologies will have a positive impact on the country’s property market, which is poised to become a regional real estate destination.
Engineer Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, the chairman of the Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat), emphasised that the country’s real estate sector is undergoing a digital transformation aimed at simplifying investor experience and positioning Qatar as a regional hub for property development.
Al-Obaidli explained that the use of artificial intelligence and digital platforms is essential for the sector’s future. “We want people’s experience to be easy, clear, and user-friendly,” he told Gulf Times, describing a vision where AI-powered systems guide users through property selection based on budget, family size, and location.
“It should even direct a potential client to what the possibilities and good investments that would be worth exploring in Qatar, al-Obaidli pointed out.
He also confirmed that Aqarat, along with other government ministries, is investing heavily in developing such platforms. “We are in the process of developing AI-powered platforms, AI agents, and other similar innovative technologies,” he explained.
Al-Obaidli emphasised that the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum will feature Saudi Arabia as the “host country.” The event will also introduce the ‘Qatar Real Estate Award 2025’.
More than 50 experts from Qatar and abroad are expected to share insights during the forum, which will run from October 12 to 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, alongside Cityscape Qatar 2025, al-Obaidli noted.
“We hope for more partnerships between our local companies and the international companies that are expected to participate in this year’s edition. We aim to provide a platform where landmark iconic ideas can be transformed into reality,” al-Obaidli said.
He also said the Qatar Real Estate Forum is designed to facilitate collaboration, spark innovation, and deliver new products for Qatar and the wider Gulf region. “The third edition, organised under the theme ‘Aqarat’s Future’, continues to build on the success of the two previous editions, solidifying the forum’s position as a strategic platform that brings together decision-makers, experts, and investors,” he said.
Earlier, al-Obaidli announced that Aqarat is positioning the Qatar Real Estate Award 2025 “as a strategic initiative to enhance regulatory impact and promote excellence across the country’s property sector.”
In a statement, Aqarat described the Qatar Real Estate Award 2025 as "a dedicated platform to celebrate excellence and innovation” in Qatar’s real estate sector. “The award aims to honour pioneering projects and innovative ideas that enhance Qatar’s position as a leading global investment destination, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030,” Aqarat stated further.
The award categories include ‘Best Residential Project’, which is evaluated on quality of life elements, building classification, green space ratio, community services and amenities, public utility integration, and resident satisfaction metrics.
The ‘Best Sustainable Urban Development Project’ is assessed through architectural plans, construction materials, environmental certification (GSAS or LEED), efficiency reports, smart systems, EIA studies, and readiness for future technologies.
The ‘Best Commercial/Office Real Estate Project’ is judged on work environment, digital infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, interior flexibility, and integration with public services.
The ‘Best Rest Estate Investment’ award is based on feasibility studies, ROI indicators, occupancy/sales rates, market contribution, job creation, operations and maintenance (O&M) and expansion plans, and connectivity and integration with public utilities and community services.
Engineer Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, chairman of the Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority. PICTURE: Thajudheen
