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Hamad Port has seen 1.421mn twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers during 2024, reflecting a 9% jump on an annualised basis, according to Mwani Qatar.The container growth was seen maximum at 52% in June 2024; while April 2024 had seen the maximum decline of 17%. Six of the 12 months had witnessed contraction in the container movement through Hamad Port.The port also saw a 23% year-on-year rise in transshipment, reaching 683,552 TEUs, which accounted for 48% of the total containers handled, Mwani Qatar said in its 2024 annual report, which was released on Sunday.The export and import TEUs were 274,436 and 472,927, accounting for 19% and 33% of the total containers in the review period. The export and import containers were down 0.4% and 1% respectively on an annualised basis.Hamad Port, Qatar’s main gateway to world trade, in 2024 reached a major milestone by handling 10mn TEUs since beginning operations in December 2016, highlighting the port’s vital role in maritime logistics and its robust capabilities, making it a preferred hub for international shipping companies.Year-to-date berth utilisation stood at 45% for CT2 (second container terminal) and 17% in the case of CT1, it said.The berth utilisation was high as 52% and as low as 33% in March and April for CT2. In CT1, the yard utilisation was as high as 20% in March and October 2024 and as low as 12% in August 2024.Additionally, the port managed 1.018mn tonnes of general cargo; 399,554 tonnes of bulk cargo; 130,332 units of RORO (vehicles); and 20,000 livestock heads; marking 62% and 115% growth respectively with the arrival of as many as 1,578 vessels.Of the 1,578 vessels in 2024, as many as 1,452 were cargo vessels; 118 were offshore vessels; and eight were naval ships. The bulk and car carrier witnessed 79% and 10% growth year-on-year in 2024; whereas general cargo, offshore supply and container shrank 24%, 6% and 4% respectively.Of the 1,578 vessels in 2024; the report said containers were as many as 1,071 or contributed 68% to the total; followed by general cargo 179 (11%), car carrier 175 (11%), offshore supply 118 (7%), bulk 25 (2%), and naval 8 (1%).In 2024, the gate moves -- which help track the movement of containers and cargo within the facility, ensure accurate inventory management, and facilitate efficient handling and processing of shipments - were seen highest at 41,275 in July and the lowest at 34,244 in February.The average truck turnaround time - which is the total time a truck spends in the dock area picking up or dropping off a container - was 23 hours in 2024 compared to 23 hours in 2023.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) yesterday gained for the sixth consecutive day with its key index surpassing the 10,200 levels, on buying interests especially in the telecom and consumer goods sectors.The local retail investors turned bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose as much as 67 points or 0.66% to 10,213.33 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,147 points.The US-tariff relief continued to have its influence in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated further to 3.38%. As much as 53% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR3.73bn or 0.63% to QR600.35bn on the back of large and small cap segments.The domestic funds’ weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market, which saw as many as 0.03mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank) valued at QR0.07mn change hands across nine deals. The foreign retail investors continued to be bullish but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills. The Arab retail investors were seen net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.66%, the All Share Index by 0.6% and the All Islamic Index by 0.49% in the main market.The telecom sector index soared 2.88%, consumer goods and services (1.03%), industrials (0.48%), banks and financial services (0.47%), transport (0.35%) and realty (0.34%); whereas insurance declined 0.27%. Major gainers in the main bourse included Ooredoo, Industries Qatar, Inma Holding, Medicare Group, Qatar Islamic Bank and Woqod. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Al Meera, Zad Holding, Al Mahhar Holding, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, QIIB and Qatari German Medical Devices were among the losers in the main market.The Qatari individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.73mn compared with net sellers of QR9.31mn on April 14.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking weakened markedly to QR1.56mn against QR9.28mn the previous day.However, the Arab retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR4.01mn compared with net buyers of QR4.07mn on Monday.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking strengthened significantly to QR3.7mn against QR0.65mn on April 14.The Gulf individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR0.5mn compared with net buyers of QR0.64mn the previous day.The foreign institutions’ net buying decreased noticeably to QR7.05mn against QR13.08mn on Monday.The foreign individual investors’ net selling eased marginally to QR0.01mn compared to QR1.45mn on April 14.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second straight session.The main market witnessed 48% plunge in trade volumes to 93.94mn shares, 35% in value to QR242.08mn and 35% in deals to 11,886.In the junior bourse, trade volumes plummeted 93% to 0.06mn equities, value by 93% to QR0.18mn and transactions by 63% to 12.

Al Meera Consumer Goods Company is strengthening efforts to digitise platforms and expand self-checkout as part of its continued strategies to improve services to customers."Looking towards the future, Al Meera’s strategy remains centered on enhancing the customer experience by improving service, digitising platforms, expanding self-checkout, and upgrading store aesthetics," said its board report tabled before shareholders at the annual general assembly meeting, which approved the financial results and cash dividends of QR0.85 per share for 2024.Operationally, the focus would be on increasing efficiency and cost-effectiveness through technological advancements and streamlined processes to ensure operational excellence and deliver superior customer value, it said."In line with our continuous ambition to expand the horizons of innovation as a key driver of sustainable growth, we have made significant progress in this direction through a long-term strategy and our ambitious journey toward comprehensive digital transformation," said Al Meera chairman Abdulla Abdulaziz Abdullah Turki al-Subaie in the 2024 report.During the review period, Al Meera strengthened its market presence both online and offline with its online and home delivery service contributing 5%–6% of total sales.Over the past year, Al Meera strengthened its position as a leader in advanced retail, continuing to adopt a sustainable innovation strategy with a focus on digital transformation, a focus that led to significant advancements in 2024.As part of its digital transformation, Al Meera had in 2024 introduced smart shopping carts, the first of their kind in Qatar."Following the opening Al Meera Smart, a fully automated, check-out free branch in 2023, the first of its kind in Qatar and the region, we continued to advance our digital retail offering with the launch of smart shopping carts in January 2024, the first in Qatar, further enhancing the in-store experience and reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative and seamless shopping solutions for our customers," according to al-Subaie.On the digital end, the company further integrated the SAP system into its operations, building upon the strategic partnership established with the global technology leader in 2023.This collaboration targets modernising Al Meera’s branches and services with advanced cloud solutions, directly contributing to its operational excellence and expansion plans and enhancing the experience for both customers and employees, the board report said.Alongside its focus on innovation and sustainability, Al Meera remains firmly committed to supporting local industries, bringing together suppliers, businesses, and customers in a celebration of Qatari-made products, driving strong engagement across its store network."Through targeted in-store promotions and marketing efforts, Al Meera reaffirmed its dedication to offering locally sourced goods while contributing to the development of Qatar’s retail sector," the board said.

Bullish on Qatar’s macroeconomic prospects, Al Mahhar Holding is exploring options on expanding its manufacturing base for the energy sector over the medium term and aims to diversify into renewables.“We are evaluating the feasibility of expanding into in-house manufacturing, assembly, and system integration for specific energy sector products and equipment in Qatar over the medium term,” said Al Mahhar Holding board report, tabled before shareholders at the recent annual general assembly meeting, which approved the 2024 results and dividend.The report highlighted that its commitment to In-Country Value (ICV) is evident through the leadership as a low-voltage switchgear assembler and explosion proof devices manufacturer in Qatar.“We aim to build on this expertise by expanding into higher voltage and control equipment solutions, continuously developing local capabilities in the energy and renewable sectors,” Al Mahhar Holding said.It is also expanding capabilities in digital fields and system integration to further enhance its Qatari credentials, it said, adding additive manufacturing is emerging as a key area in the energy and renewables sectors.“Al Mahhar Holding is positioning itself to capitalise on these advancements by investing in local capabilities in Qatar,” the report said. Seeking to diversify beyond traditional energy markets with a particular focus on renewables, electrification, and water conservation; it said through the adoption of world-class digital solutions, “we aim to improve efficiencies and enhance the competitiveness of our customers.”Specifically, in the renewables sector, it is focusing on developing technologies and solutions to reduce emissions in Qatar, with plans to increase its market share. “Al Mahhar Holding is positioning itself to play a key role in this transition,” it added.“Al Mahhar Holding Company is uniquely positioned to drive sustained growth in the energy industry, with plans to expand into future energy segments and solidify our footprint in the hydrocarbon downstream industries,” said Fahad Hussain Alfardan, its chairman, who presided over the meeting.Highlighting that its goal is to offer a comprehensive range of products and services; the report said it plans to acquire additional agencies, grow customer base, and ensure high-quality service, including maintaining a stock of spare parts and providing staff training.“In parallel with developing more in-house capabilities, we remain open to investing in new joint ventures and collaboration agreements to further local capabilities,” it said.Expecting “significant” potential to expand its product and service offerings in Qatar’s energy sector, Al Mahhar Holding is exploring opportunities across the entire value chain, including upstream, midstream, and downstream.“We believe QatarEnergy’s ongoing localisation programme (Tawteen) is a key catalyst for these opportunities,” it said. On the opportunities for 2025; it said diversification into renewables as solar, wind, and hydrogen can enhance their portfolios to meet changing market demands.Innovations in carbon capture, energy efficiency, and alternative fuels offer growth opportunities for energy and infrastructure companies, it said, adding investments in new infrastructure projects, especially in emerging markets, will boost economic growth and create jobs. Meeting ESG or environment, social and governance criteria will attract investment and drive innovation in sustainable technologies, the report said.In the infrastructure sector, Al Mahhar Holding is focused on enhancing profitability by improving efficiencies and restructuring processes.

Sports tourism remains a vital growth driver with FIFA World Cup 2022 generating an estimated $2.3-4.1bn in tourism spending and broadcasting revenue, contributing $1.6-2.4bn to Qatar’s gross domestic product (GDP), according to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). “This success has created a positive impact boosting the tourism and hospitality sectors across the region by up to 30%,” PwC said, adding the Middle East region’s sports market is projected to grow at an “impressive” rate of 8.7% over the next three to five years, outpacing the global average of 7.3%.This growth (in the Middle East sports sector) will be fuelled by significant investments in premium sports properties and infrastructure, alongside ambitious initiatives to increase grassroots participation, it said, adding “looking ahead, the region’s sports sector faces both opportunities and challenges as it balances commercial growth with sustainable development.”Qatar continues to leverage its post-World Cup momentum through strategically bidding for, and hosting, major sporting events such as the FIFA Arab Cup in 2025, 2029 and 2033; FIFA U17 World Cup in 2025 through 2029 and the Web Summit for 2024 through 2028, PwC said.Highlighting that Qatar’s successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Saudi Arabia’s selection for the 2034 edition demonstrates the region’s capability; the report said the region’s position in global sports investment has strengthened significantly. Sovereign wealth funds, including Middle Eastern funds, now lead 24% of global sports investments, it said, adding Qatar Sports Investments’ $200mn investment in Monumental Sports, which owns clubs and arenas in the US, reflects a growing focus on international portfolio.Finding that the region is pioneering new commercial models, notably in emerging sports sectors; it said Qatar’s investments in Formula 1, the UAE’s development of combat sports, and Saudi Arabia’s Esports initiatives demonstrate the breadth of commercial opportunities being pursued. The Middle Eastern sports consumer is highly digitally engaged, with over-the-top (OTT) services like Shahid VIP and beIN Connect revolutionising how fans consume sports content. Innovations from entities like the Qatar-based SponixTech (immersive replays) and Saudi Arabia-based Fanera (fan experience platforms) underscore the region’s leadership in digital sports transformation.Social media is a key driver of fan engagement, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X playing a central role; PwC said penetration rates in the Middle East highlight the widespread use of social platforms, with the UAE at 115%, Saudi Arabia at 96.2% and Qatar at 96.8%.

QTerminals has appointed Charles Meaby as Acting Group chief executive officer, in the place of Neville Bissett.Prior to this, Meaby was Group Business Development and Commercial Officer, then Managing Director of Hamad Port.He brings more than 25 years of global experience from roles at DP World, London Gateway Port Holdings, Hutchison Ports, and Associated British Ports.Bissett, who had been with the terminals company for eight years, led QTerminals through a major internationalisation programme with the winning of a 35-year concession in Ukraine (QTerminals Olvia), a 28-year concession in Türkiye (QTerminals Antalya) and the acquisition of Kramer Group in the Netherlands (now QTerminals Kramer Rotterd

Doha's energy infrastructure will soon get a fillip, when every building turns out to be a clean power plant, supporting the national sustainability goals and enabling Qatar to lead the next wave of energy innovation, according to a top official of a South Korean global leader in AI-driven solutions for zero-energy buildings.In this regard, EnergyX Systems -- a next-generation Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) solution that transforms façades and rooftops into clean energy generators without sacrificing design -- is now in the final stages of incorporation under the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC).“Qatar has the vision, the talent, and the infrastructure to lead the next wave of energy innovation,” EnergyX chief executive officer Sean Park, who has personally relocated to the region earlier this year, told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.The EnergyX DY-Building is a seven-storey structure (including one-storey underground parking). It was conceived not only as a headquarters (in South Korea), but as a functioning showcase of integrated technologies of EnergyX. From design to operations, the building demonstrates a complete application of optimised, data-driven, AI or artificial intelligence-powered, hardware-integrated solutions.EnergyX, a 'sustainable architecture technology company, not only manufactures and installs BIPVs but also offers AI-driven simulation, software, optimisation, and management of the entire process all the way from architectural design to architectural operations once the building is finished.“The EnergyX DY-Building was the first of its kind. But the next landmark of global energy optimisation may rise right here," he said in reference to its proposed action plans for Qatar."The EnergyX DY-Building is more than a structure — it’s a living model for what tomorrow’s architecture must become: intelligent, autonomous, and regenerative. It challenges developers, city planners, and governments to think beyond sustainability — and aim for profitable energy sovereignty," Park said, forecasting good potential in the region.During the Web Summit Qatar 2025, EnergyX had disclosed its plans to establish a major R&D (research and development) center in Qatar, committing to invest more than $100mn in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) over the next five years."As EnergyX brings its proven technology to the Middle East, Qatar may soon host the next chapter in global energy architecture — a future in which every building is its own clean power plant," he said.The company is scouting for strategic partners and such partnership involves strategic growth for both EnergyX and the countries, Park said, adding it seeks to make meaningful contribution to the ICVs (in-country value).(Ends)

Reflecting buoyancy, notably in the non-hydrocarbons, Qatar’s maritime sector saw higher vessels call, resulting in brisk yearly growth in the movement of RORO (vehicles), livestock and building materials through Mesaieed, Doha and Al Ruwais ports during the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, according to the official data.A total of 726 ships arrived in the three ports during January-March 2025, a 12.21% growth on annualised basis. In March alone, as many as 247 vessel calls were recorded, jumping 6.47% and 8.81% year-on-year and month-on-month respectively, according to figures collated from Mwani Qatar.Hamad Port - Qatar’s main seaport, located south of Doha in the Umm Al Houl area and whose strategic geographical location offers opportunities to create cargo movement towards the upper Gulf - saw as many as 120 vessels call (excluding military) on the port in March 2025.The three ports handled a total of 30,811 RORO during the first three months of this year, registering a 60.47% surge year-on-year. In March alone, as many as 10,371 RORO movements were recorded, showing 73.69% and 36.48% growth on yearly and monthly basis respectively. Hamad Port alone handled as many as 10,298 units in March this year.Qatar’s automobile sector has been witnessing renewed demand, reporting stronger sales, notably in heavy equipment, private motorcycles and private vehicles, according to National Planning Council data .The building materials traffic through the three ports stood at 159,718 tonnes during Q1-2025, which was up 11.78% on an annualised basis. In March alone, the three ports had handled as much as 88,131 tonnes, surging 68.7% and 118.1% year-on-year and month-on-month respectively.The three ports were seen handling 230,625 livestock heads during January-March 2025, which showed a 4.3% growth on an annualised basis. In March this year, the ports handled as many as 97,625 livestock heads, which declined 17.66% on yearly basis but zoomed 31.57% month-on-month. Hamad Port handled as many as 8,000 livestock heads in the review period.The container movement through three ports amounted to 336,889 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during the first three months of 2025, down 4.17% on a yearly basis. In March alone, as many as 99,410 TEUs of containers were seen handling, which declined 27.36% and 12.17% year-on-year and month-on-month respectively.Hamad Port, the largest eco-friendly project in the region and internationally recognised as one of the largest green ports in the world, had welcomed 133,000 TEU CMA CGM Iron, the first dual-fuel methanol container vessel to visit Qatar.The container terminals have been designed to address the increasing trade volume, enhancing ease of doing business as well as supporting the achievement of economic diversification, which is one of the most important goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.The general and bulk cargo handled through the three ports stood at 322,206 freight tonnes during Q1-2025, which fell 12.29% on yearly basis. In March alone, the general and bulk cargo handled through three ports was 70,392 freight tonnes, plunging 49.39% and 35.65% year-on-year and month-on-month respectively.Hamad Port – whose multi-use terminal is designed to serve the supply chains for the RORO, grains and livestock – handled as much as 30,116 freight tonnes of breakbulk and 7,000 freight tonnes of bulk in March this year.The container and cargo trends through the ports reflect the positive outlook for the country’s non-oil private sector.In line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, Mwani Qatar continues to implement its ambitious strategy to enhance the maritime sector’s contribution to diversifying the national economy and strengthening the county’s position as a vibrant regionaltrade hub.

Development banks from Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE are expected to fund the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority's (GCCIA) $1.1bn-$1.3bn investment programme for 2025-27, according to Standard & Poor's (S&P), an international credit rating agency.The GCCIA, in which Qatar holds 12% stake, is the interconnector for the GCC countries, ensuring security of electricity supply in the region operating under a framework that allows full costs pass through with no more than one year lag to recover differences between budgeted and actual costs.The GCCIA is currently expanding its network with about $1.1bn-$1.3bn of investments over 2025-27, which will pressure its credit metrics over the same horizon, given all projects are fully debt funded, S&P said in its latest report."This investment programme will be fully debt funded with financing expected to come from the local development banks, including of Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE," the report said, adding this would lead to negative free operating cash flow (FOCF) of about $500mn in 2025 decreasing to be free cash flow neutral from 2027 (2028 should the backbone project to be secured)."As a result, we currently expect net debt to peak at about $800mn-$850mn in 2026-27, decreasing to about $600mn by 2029. Once the backbone expansion project starts, we expect gross debt to grow by an additional $300mn from 2026, amortising over at least 10 years," the rating agency said.However, S&P expects the GCCIA to be able to cover additional debt-servicing related to this project with the additional contribution it should receive from the shareholders.Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) had in February 2025 signed a loan agreement with the GCCIA to finance the expansion of the electricity grid in Oman, as part of efforts to enhance regional cooperation and sustainable development.Stamping "stable" outlook to the GCCIA, S&P said it indicates that the rating agency expects the authority to continue receiving timely support from the GCC states, enabling the company to expand its existing network as planned.Including in its Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) calculations, the contributions from member countries used to service the debt; the report said it consider funds from operations to debt (FFO) and FOCF to debt as the key ratios because they capture the cash flow after interest-servicing and the high capital spending (capex) plans in the future years.Incorporating its expectation that the GCCIA will receive annual fees and contributions from its shareholders to service debt in a timely manner, ensuring smooth operations and deleveraging over the forecast horizon; S&P said "we therefore expect the company's FFO to debt to be above 9% and to improve to 10-22% in 2026-27."

Capital Intelligence (CI) has assigned to Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) first-time long- and short-term ratings on the Qatar national scale of ‘qaA-’ and ‘qaA2’, respectively with "stable" outlook."We see GWC as having a very sound financial profile. The company is by far the largest logistics services provider in Qatar, and it has a dominant market share in its home market," CI said in its latest report.Although geographical diversification is still limited at present, the relatively new Omani operation (Flag Logistics) is performing well, with scope for further expansion in the future – although there are no firm plans for this at present, it said.At home, the focus will increasingly be on improving margins by introducing higher value-added supply chain services, CI added.The end-2024 asset base was dominated by fixed assets in the form of PP&E (73.5%), capital work in progress (2.2%) and right of use assets (4.4%).The second largest asset class was net trade receivables at just 8.8%. With little additional capital expenditure planned in Qatar, the proportion of the asset base comprising fixed assets is expected to gradually decline going forward.The company has a solid capital base, and one that will shortly be bolstered as a result of the planned issue of a subordinated perpetual sukuk.Part of the proceeds of this issue is earmarked for the repayment of an existing QR300mn short-term borrowing. Other credit strengths include good cash flow and a dominant market position in the logistics sector in Qatar. This latter strength, however, means that achieving domestic volume growth could be a problem for GWC."GWC is, therefore, working to increase overall occupancy at its existing facilities in Qatar while at the same time seeking to grow the proportion of higher margin 3PL (third-party logistics) and 4PL (fourth-party logistics) revenues in its overall top line. This is important as freight-forwarding (FF) revenues normally carry lower margins than warehousing and supply chain management services," it said.The management is expecting the current year to be stronger as volumes build at the Oman operation and as 4PL volumes build in Qatar.Although this year could also see work commence on an Eastern province logistics operation in Saudi Arabia, this would be unlikely to contribute to revenues in 2025.Considering effective liquidity to be satisfactory; CI said once the existing ST borrowing has been repaid, the only ST debt exposure will be the current portion of LT debt (about QR340mn at end-2024).While the remainder of the sukuk issue proceeds is aimed at funding possible expansion into Saudi Arabia, this would take the form of a joint venture with a foreign partner, it said."In the meantime, these funds would remain on the GWC balance sheet as cash, with projected end-2025 cash balances showing a sharp increase as a result," it added.GWC does not hold investment securities. Instead, liquid assets are held in the form of cash.Given the nature of the business model, inventories are very low (less than 0.2% of total assets) but trade receivables are more significant at almost 9% of total assets, CI said, adding these are of high quality (given that the top five names are Qatar governmental or semi-governmental) and generally ST in tenor – although there are some concentrations by customer in both revenues and receivables.The ratio of liquid resources to ST debt was 0.27x at the end of 2024, while the liquidity coverage ratio was 0.9x.

Lack of clarity on the US’ tariff policies and regional geopolitical tensions had their impact on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which saw its key index plummet as much as 111 points and capitalisation melt in excess of QR5bn this week.More than 81% of the traded constituents were in the red as the 20-stock Qatar Index knocked off 1.07% this week which saw the listed companies cumulatively report net profit of QR51.17bn in 2024.The Arab individual investors were seen net profit takers in the main bourse this week which saw Lesha Bank acquire an indirect stake in Edinburgh Airport.The local retail investors were also seen bearish in the main market this week which saw Gulf Warehousing (GWC) sign strategic service agreement with Huwaei.The domestic institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.13mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.29mn trade across 30 deals.The foreign funds continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.01mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.16mn change hands across 21 transactions.The insurance counter witnessed higher than average selling pressure in the main bourse this week which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the main barometer of the main market this week, which saw Knight Frank, a global property consultancy, find that leading international hotel brands accounted for 60% of Qatar's total 40,755 hotel rooms during 2024.Market capitalisation eroded QR5.14bn or 0.85% to QR600.7bn on the back of large and midcap segments this week which saw Mekdam Holding "aggressively" pursue opportunities within the QR3bn pipeline under negotiation as it seeks to strengthen its presence in high-growth sectors such as technology and engineering.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease in the main market; while the junior market’s trade volume and value were on the rise this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Total Return Index shrank 0.45%, the All Islamic Index by 0.62% and the All Share Index by 0.53% this week which saw the industrials and banking sectors together constitute about 57% of the total trade volumes.The insurance sector index plummeted 3.76%, industrials (1.05%), realty (1.01%), telecom (0.61%), consumer goods and services (0.39%) and banks and financial services (0.3%); while transport gained 0.71% this week which saw Moody’s report that said Qatar meets more than 40% of its total freshwater demand from desalination, with significant government subsidies to cover production costs.Major losers in the main market included Mekdam Holding, Commercial Bank, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, QIIB, AlRayan Bank, Dukhan Bank, Qatar Oman Investment, Qatari German Medical Devices, Salam International Investment, Mannai Corporation, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Qamco, Qatar Insurance, Mazaya Qatar, Barwa and Vodafone Qatar. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.Nevertheless, Estithmar Holding, Milaha, GWC, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Woqod were among the movers in the main bourse this week.The Arab individuals were net sellers to the tune of QR17.26mn against net buyers of QR11.83mn the week ended March 20.The Qatari retail investors turned net sellers to the extent of QR11.47mn compared with net buyers of QR26.7mn a week ago.The domestic institutions’ net buying declined noticeably to QR160.37mn against QR185.4mn the previous week.However, the Gulf funds were net buyers to the tune of QR42.48mn compared with net sellers of QR4.63mn the week ended March 20.The foreign individual investors’ net buying expanded markedly to QR11.52mn against QR2.55mn a week ago.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR1.78mn compared to QR0.75mn the previous week.The foreign institutions’ net selling decreased significantly to QR102.63mn against QR222.6mn the week ended March 20.The Arab funds had no major net exposure compared with net buyers to the extent of QR0.05mn a week ago.The main market witnessed a 32% plunge in trade volumes to 587.77mn shares, 29% in value to QR1.58bn and 48% in deals to 71,475 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes jumped more than nine-fold to 0.98mn equities and value by more than nine-fold to QR2.8mn on 11% jump in transactions to 41.

The listed companies in the main market have reported a total net profit of QR51.18bn in 2024 as consumer goods and transport sectors witnessed faster earnings expansion, according to data compiled by the Qatar Stock Exchange.Amidst challenging regional environment and interest rate rigidities, the listed companies’ net earnings shot up 8.7% year-on-year in 2024 against a 3.03% decline in the previous year.The 2024 net profitability improvement was seen despite declines in the earnings of real estate sector as well as slowdown in the net profit growth in the banking and telecom sectors. On an absolute basis, the banking sector remained the largest contributor at more than 59% in the review period.The consumer goods and services sector, which has 13 listed entities, saw its total net profit surge 10.74% year-on-year to QR1.67bn at the end of 2024 against a 4.73% decline in 2023. The sector contributed 3.26% to the overall net profitability in the review period against 3.21% in 2022.The transport sector, which has three listed constituents, saw total net profits grow 4.54% year-on-year to QR2.93bn compared to 4.14% in 2023. The sector’s net profit constituted 5.72% to the total net profit of the listed companies in 2024 against 5.95% the previous year.The industrials sector, which has 10 listed constituents, saw a 1.8% year-on-year shrinkage in net profits to QR9.27bn in 2024 compared to a 35.94% contraction in 2023. The sector contributed 18.11% to the overall net earnings of the listed entities in 2024 against 20.05% in 2023.Within the industrials sector, six of them, especially two underlying firms that have direct linkages with the hydrocarbons sectors, witnessed decline in net earnings owing to the subdued demand.The insurance sector, which has seven companies, registered net earnings of QR1.31bn in 2024 against net loss of QR0.36bn in 2023. The sector contributed 2.56% to the overall net profitability in 2024.Economic expansion, population growth, and mandatory insurance schemes will increase demand in most Gulf countries this year. Overall satisfactory underwriting results and relatively high interest rates will support earnings, according to Standard & Poor’s, a global credit rating agency.The Qatar Central Bank’s (QCB) Third Financial Sector Strategy had said plans were afoot to expand the product offerings such as life and health and to launch climate insurance as well as tailored insurance services for priority sectors as logistics and manufacturing.The banks and financial services sector, which has 13 listed entities, reported a 6% year-on-year jump in total net profit to QR30.31bn against a 7.64% expansion in 2023. The sector contributed 59.22% to the total net profits of the listed companies in January-December 2024 compared to 60.47% in 2023.The telecom sector, which has two constituents, reported a 13.52% jump year-on-year in net profit to QR4.04bn in 2024 against 24.22% growth in 2023. The sector had contributed 7.89% to total net profit in 2024 compared to 7.56% the previous year.The realty segment, which has four listed entities, saw total net earnings tank 3.61% year-on-year to QR1.7bn in 2024 against a 6.46% surge in 2023. The sector constituted 3.32% to the overall net profits in 2024 compared to 3.74% in 2023.The venture market, which had two listed entities, registered a total profit of QR0.06mn in 2024, showing a 24.09% surge on an annualised basis. However, one of them has migrated to the main market this year.

Qatar meets more than 40% of its total freshwater demand from desalination, with significant government subsidies to cover production costs, according to Moody's, an international credit rating agency.This reference was made in Moody's latest article 'Water management is a credit risk for one-third of sovereigns, many emerging markets', which otherwise found that the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) countries have been investing in water scarcity solutions since the 1980s, such as adopting desalination and wastewater reuse technologies to address extreme water stress.In the case of Saudi Arabia, which is the world's largest producer of desalinated water by volume, it said most of its water supply came from non-renewable underground sources.The UAE meets around 48% of its drinking water demand through desalination and continues to expand its capacity despite environmental costs, whereas Kuwait and Bahrain also rely heavily on desalination to address water stress.Finding that mitigation efforts will be costly but reduce credit risks over long run; it said governments with strong water management policies and procedures, and financing capacity will be able to better manage the consequences of water stress and avoid associated credit pressures.These are mainly GCC economies such as Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, along with Singapore. Initiatives at the global level can also help address water management issues without putting too much of a burden on individual sovereigns' fiscal strength and liquidity buffers.According to Global Water Intelligence, Qatar has made "significant" strides in its water security strategy by embracing seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination technology. In just seven years, SWRO has emerged as a key contributor to Qatar's municipal water network, providing over 48% of the country's potable water needs.Qatar's National Environment and Climate Change Strategy (QNE), announced in 2021, recognises the need to rely on reverse osmosis as a sustainable technology in the region to produce more than 55% of desalinated water.The Qatar National Vision 2030 also has a particular focus on reducing consumption, improving conservation, and on the circular water economy, highlighting the value of research, development, and innovation (RDI) in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Ras Abu Fontas A3 Seawater Reverse Osmosis desalination plant forms part of the Ras Abu Fontas Independent Water and Power Plant (IWPP) in south Doha. It has a capacity of 163MLD (million litres per day).Umm Al Houl Power (UHP) is another IWPP located at Qatar Economic Zone in Qatar. It was built with an MSF (multi-stage flash) desalination unit with a capacity of 455MLD and with a SWRO plant with a capacity of 280MLD whose construction started in 2015.

Reversing the bearish trend of the last five days, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) on Wednesday gained more than 28 points on the back of buying support from domestic institutions.The real estate, telecom, consumer goods and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.28% to 10,185.78 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,211 points.The foreign institutions were seen bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date losses truncated to 3.64%.As much as 75% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.85bn or 0.31% to QR598.29bn on the back of microcap segments.The foreign individuals were increasingly net buyers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.03mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.07mn change hands across 10 deals.However, the Gulf funds were seen net profit takers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The Islamic index was seen outperforming the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The local individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 0.28%, the All Share Index by 0.29% and the All Islamic Index by 0.62% in the main market.The realty sector index shot up 1.19%, telecom (0.98%), consumer goods and services (0.68%) and banks and financial services (0.45%); while transport declined 0.84%, industrials (0.05%) and insurance (0.01%).Major gainers in the main market included Qatari German Medical Devices, Inma Holding, Estithmar Holding, QIIB, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, United Development Company, Barwa and Vodafone Qatar.Nevertheless, Mekdam Holding, Dlala, Al Mahhar Holding, Beema and Nakilat were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The domestic institutions’ net buying increased significantly to QR34.89mn compared to QR10.54mn on March 25.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR7.45mn against net sellers of QR23.89mn the previous day.The foreign individual investors’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR2.5mn compared to QR2.43mn on Tuesday.However, the Gulf institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR21.76mn against net buyers of QR4.81mn on March 25.The local individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR12.86mn compared with net buyers of QR2.4mn the previous day.The Arab retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR10.12mn against net buyers of QR3.12mn on Tuesday.The Gulf individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR0.09mn compared with net buyers of QR0.59mn on March 25.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fifth straight session.The main market witnessed a 7% jump in trade volumes to 135.03mn shares, 24% in value to QR390.16mn and 28% in deals to 18,834.In the junior bourse, trade volumes grew almost five-fold to 35,186 equities and value also by almost five-fold to QR0.1mn on doubled transactions to eight.

Reflecting the chaos arising from lack of clarity over the US’ reciprocal tariff policy, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) continued to be under selling pressure for the fifth straight session and its key index settled below 10,200 levels.The insurance, telecom, consumer goods, industrials, realty and transport counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index fell 28 points or 0.28% to 10,157.56 points, having touched an intraday high of 10,223 points.The foreign institutions continued to be net profit takers but with lesser intensity in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened further to 3.91%.As much as 74% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR1.72bn or 0.29% to QR596.44bn on the back of small and microcap segments.The domestic institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence in the main market, which saw as many as 3,697 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.03mn change hands across four deals.The local retail investors’ lower net buying also had its say in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf individuals’ weakened net buying had its impact on the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index declined 0.28%, the All Share Index by 0.27% and the All Islamic Index by 0.38% in the main market.The insurance sector index tanked 1.18%, telecom (0.93%), consumer goods and services (0.75%), industrials (0.73%), real estate (0.62%) and transport (0.51%); while banks and financial services gained 0.15%.Major losers in the main bourse included Mekdam Holding, Qatari German Medical Devices, Vodafone Qatar, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Qatar Insurance, Industries Qatar, Aamal Company, Qatari Investors Group, Qamco, United Development Company and Ezdan. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Al Mahhar Holding, Estithmar Holding, Gulf Warehousing, Masraf Al Rayan and Meeza were among the gainers in the main market.The domestic institutions’ net buying decreased significantly to QR10.54mn compared to QR41.45mn on March 24.The local individual investors’ net buying weakened noticeably to QR2.4mn against QR20.31mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying eased marginally to QR0.59mn compared to QR0.83mn on Monday.However, the Gulf institutions were net buyers to the tune of QR4.81mn against net sellers of QR9.87mn on March 24.The Arab individuals turned net buyers to the extent of QR3.12mn compared with net sellers of QR2.5mn the previous day.The foreign individual investors’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR2.43mn against QR2.03mn on Monday.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking weakened drastically to QR23.89mn compared to QR52.25mn on March 24.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth straight session.The main market witnessed 5% jump in trade volumes to 126.69mn shares and 3% in value to QR313.42mn but on less than 1% shrinkage in deals to 14,749.In the junior bourse, trade volumes plummeted 70% to 7,444 equities; value by 70% to QR0.02mn and transactions by 43% to four.

Mekdam Holding is “aggressively” pursuing opportunities within the QR3bn pipeline under negotiation as it seeks to strengthen its presence in high-growth sectors such as technology and engineering.“As Mekdam Holding Group looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, the focus remains on accelerating profitability, expanding market reach, and enhancing financial sustainability,” the Qatar Stock Exchange listed entity said in its board report, placed before shareholders at the annual general assembly meeting, which approved 2024 results and the bonus shares.On strengthening the presence in high-growth sectors, Mekdam said it included technology services, engineering solutions, and security systems so as to ensure steady revenue growth and diversification.“As we look to the future, we are motivated by the remarkable strength and resilience of the Qatari economy, which continues to evolve and unlock vast opportunities across a wide range of sectors,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Nawaf bin Nasser bin Khalid al-Thani, Mekdam Holding chairman.The company, which is leveraging strong backlog of secured contracts (QR2.6bn), said its subsidiaries possess several key advantages that position them to capitalise on local, regional, and international trends within the information, communication and technology or ICT sector.Some of these opportunities arise from the macroeconomic factors, while others are directly tied to the subsidiaries’ unique competitive strengths, the report said.In 2024, Mekdam signed new contracts totalling QR861mn, with ongoing projects valued at QR2.6bn. The remaining value of works to be completed is QR1.5bn. The company has submitted proposals for projects amounting to approximately QR3bn, with an expected success rate of 20% to 30%, based on historical data.The subsidiaries – Mekdam Technology Solutions, Mekdam Software, and Mekdam CAMS – have established strong relationships with government agencies, with government contracts accounting for 58.6% of their revenue in 2024.“Given their size, the quality and diversity of their services, and their strategic positioning, the subsidiaries are well-placed to take full advantage of the growing demand and evolving requirements in the ICT sector,” it said.The perceived market opportunities for the subsidiaries are growth of the Qatari economy, alignment with Qatar Vision 2030 and its emphasis on ICT development, increasing awareness of cybercrime and the need for enhanced security, demand for businesses to stay aligned with cutting-edge technologies, such as automation, robotics, cloud computing, and shortage of qualified personnel in the ICT sector.The company is aiming not only to further optimise capital structure and reduce financial liabilities, reinforce self-sustaining operational capabilities but also to maximise cash flow generation through efficient receivables management and project execution.Mekdam Holding is strengthening its financial flexibility to ensure that the group is well-positioned for strategic investments and shareholder returns.

Geopolitical uncertainties in the region and the US’ tariff policies continued to play its part in dampening sentiments in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which on Monday closed below 10,200 levels with selling pressure seen the most in telecom and industrials counters. The foreign funds squared off their position as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 82 points or 0.8% to 10,185.7 points, having touched an intraday high of 10,301 points. The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date losses widened further to 3.65%. About 68% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR4.46bn or 0.74% to QR598.16bn on the back of large and midcap segments. The Arab individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.01mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.08mn change hands across seven deals. However, the domestic funds were seen increasingly bullish in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise. The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills. The local retail investors turned net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. The Total Return Index declined 0.8%, the All Share Index by 0.72% and the All Islamic Index by 0.75% in the main market. The telecom sector index tanked 1.95%, industrials (1.8%), banks and financial services (0.74%), real estate (0.67%) and insurance (0.42%); while transport gained 0.53% and consumer goods and services 0.03%. Major losers in the main market included Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, Ooredoo, Al Faleh Educational Holding, QIIB, Dukhan Bank, Qatar Oman Investment, Qatari German Medical Devices, Mannai Corporation, Industries Qatar, Aamal Company and Qatari Investors Group. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value. Nevertheless, Estithmar Holding, QLM, Zad Holding, Ezdan, Gulf Warehousing and Qamco were among the gainers in the main market. The foreign institutions’ net profit booking increased drastically to QR52.25mn compared to QR1.23mn on March 23. The Gulf institutions’ net selling strengthened noticeably to QR9.87mn against QR7.24mn the previous day. The Arab individual investors’ net selling expanded marginally to QR2.5mn compared to QR2mn on Sunday. The foreign retail investors’ net buying weakened marginally to QR2.03mn against QR2.65mn on March 23. However, the domestic funds’ net buying strengthened significantly to QR41.45mn compared to QR19.83mn the previous day. The local individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR20.31mn against net sellers of QR12.51mn on Sunday. The Gulf retail investors’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR0.83mn compared to QR0.5mn on March 23. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the third straight session. The main market witnessed 36% surge in trade volumes to 120.78mn shares, 45% in value to QR305.23mn and 79% in deals to 14,754. In the junior bourse, trade volumes were down 4% to 0.02mn equities and value by 4% to QR0.06mn amidst flat seven transactions.

Leading international hotel brands accounted for 60% of Qatar's total 40,755 hotel rooms during 2024, according to Knight Frank, a global property consultancy."As of the end of 2024, Qatar’s total supply of quality hotel rooms stood at approximately 40,755 keys, with internationally branded properties accounting for 60% of this inventory," Knight Frank said in its latest report.The global brands’ growing exposure highlights the international appeal of the country, which according to the UN Tourism, has ‘emerged as the dominant force’ in the Middle East tourism market.The recently held 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East underscores Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector and its leadership role in promoting both regional and international co-operation.The total number of visitors to Qatar reached 5.08mn during 2024, reflecting a 25% increase on an annualised basis.The successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup has positioned Qatar as a key regional and global tourist destination.Highlighting that December alone witnessed as many as 594,079 visitors, marking a 14.6% year-on-year rise; Amar Hussain, Associate Partner (Research, Middle East) said, this surge underscores Qatar’s growing appeal as a tourism destination, driven by enhanced infrastructure, global events, and continued investments in hospitality and leisure sectors.As a result of the increased influx of tourists, the hotel performance indicators in Qatar improved steadily in 2024, he added.The average daily rates (ADR) increased by 7.9% to QR441, while average occupancy levels rose by 19.1% to 68.8%. As a result, revenue per available room (RevPAR) shot up 28.5% to QR304.On retail sector, Knight Frank report said luxury and experience-driven retail continue to dominate, with high-end malls maintaining high occupancy levels despite some downward rent adjustments.Secondary malls are facing challenges, as newer lifestyle destinations like Lusail Boulevard and The Pearl attract more tenants.E-commerce growth is also reshaping retail strategies, with Qatar’s online sales surpassing QR4.1bn in December 2024, marking an annual 32.2% increase, highlighting the emerging challenge for bricks and mortar stores.Qatar’s retail market, otherwise, experienced a 1.5% decline in average annual lease rates, bringing the average rate to QR204 per sq m per month."This reflects ongoing adjustments in rental pricing mainly due to increased supply," thecreport said.Lifestyle retail developments in prime locations command the highest rents at QR243 per sq m per month, driven by strong demand for premium brands and high consumer footfall.While, lifestyle retail food and beverage follows closely at QR242 per sq m per month, highlighting the steady demand for experiential dining and entertainment-driven retail, the report said.