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Sustaining the bullish run for the third straight session, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today rose as much as 27 points, reflecting the positive momentum in the global markets in view of oil price strength.The transport and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.25% to 10,877.05 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,838 points.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 2.89%.About 60% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.1bn or 0.17% to QR650.6bn, mainly on microcap segments.The Arab funds were seen bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main market, which saw as many as 0.02mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.18mn trade across 15 deals.The local retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab individuals’ lower net profit booking had its marginal impact on the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.25% and the All Share Index by 0.2%, while the All Islamic Index was down 0.02% in the main market.The transport sector index shot up 1.19%, insurance (0.58%), banks and financial services (0.19%) and industrials (0.13%); whereas consumer goods and services declined 0.35%, real estate (0.19%) and telecom (0.17%).As many as 31 stocks gained, while 20 declined and one was unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Inma Holding, Commercial Bank, Qatar Oman Investment, Salam International Investment, Dlala, Mannai Corporation, Meeza, Gulf International Services and Nakilat.Nevertheless, Woqod, Baladna, Gulf Warehousing, Vodafone Qatar, Mazaya Qatar, Barwa and Qatar Electricity and Water were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased noticeably to QR7.67mn compared to QR3.2mn the previous day.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn against no major net exposure on October 22.The local retail investors’ net selling weakened markedly to QR17.17mn compared to QR24.34mn on Wednesday.The Arab individual investors’ net selling shrank perceptibly to QR0.58mn against QR1.18mn the previous day.However, the domestic institutions’ net selling expanded significantly to QR8.78mn compared to QR5.98mn on October 22.The foreign institutions’ net buying decreased notably to QR16.02mn against QR23.34mn on Wednesday.The foreign individuals’ net buying declined markedly to QR1.56mn compared to QR2.56mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying eased significantly to QR1.25mn against QR2.4mn on October 22.The main market saw a 10% contraction in trade volumes to 110.01mn shares but on less than 1% jump in value to QR313.76mn and 18% in deals to 24,351.In the venture market, a total of 0.06mn equities valued at QR0.14mn changed hands across 23 transactions.

Doha's healthcare expenditure is slated to touch $13bn by 2030, showing a 14% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and molecular diagnostics market is to reach $19.2mn by 2030, at a 4.4% CAGR, as the country shows a "solid" growth potential for the biotechnology sector, according to Invest Qatar.Estimating healthcare expenditure to rise from $6bn in 2024 to $13bn by 2030; Invest Qatar said healthcare expenditure in Qatar is vital for the biotech sector as it supports research, innovation and the development of advanced medical solutions.Highlighting that molecular diagnostics is a powerful engine for biotech sector growth because it directly links scientific innovation to clinical impact; the report said it is expected to reach $19.2mn by 2030 in Qatar.Qatar’s drug market is poised for growth with strong efforts put in place to expand local production, it said, forecasting 3.1% CAGR to $1.8bn between 2024 and 2030."Pharmaceutical demand drives biotech growth by creating a need for advanced therapies, precision medicine and bio-manufacturing solutions that traditional drugs alone cannot fulfill," it said.In the case of Medtech, Invest Qatar report said it is expected to show a 5.6% CAGR between 2024 and 2030 to touch $332mn."Medtech fuels biotech by enabling research, diagnostics and advanced treatment delivery. Qatar's Medtech sector is growing rapidly, driven by expanding medical devices and implants markets," it said.Stressing that four factors drive Qatar's biotechnology sector; it said long-term national development plans prioritise science and technology as key pillars for future growth. Financial incentives and favourable business regulations are attracting both local and international investors to the biotech sector in Qatar, it added.Another aspect was innovation and global partnerships as collaborations with international institutions and firms are enhancing local capabilities and technology transfer.Stressing about talent ecosystem; the report said Qatar’s emphasis on knowledge-based industries is accelerating biotech progress supported by a high-quality talent pool.The fourth angle was infrastructure development as expanding healthcare and research facilities, labs and industrial zones are providing the physical foundation needed for biotech activities, it said.Qatar's biotechnology sector is experiencing "significant" growth, bolstered by strategic global partnerships that enhance local capabilities and facilitate technology transfer; it said.Qatar Biomedical research Institute partners with both key local entities and international entities including – the King Hussein Cancer Centre, the University College of London, the Silverstein Foundation, F. Hoffman-La Roche, Sultan Qaboos University, Cleveland Clinic Foundation and Lundbeck – to advance biomedical research, it highlighted.Qatar has launched an investment package worth QR20bn to support investments in biotechnology, artificial intelligence and future technologies, in parallel with stimulating joint investments with venture capital firms and promoting public-private partnerships.The country has been fostering its biotechnology sector through strategic collaborations facilitated by key entities such as the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ).QSTP supports biotech firms like Prorenata Biotech, GPTBots.ai and GE Healthcare to drive innovation and QFZ partners with BIOCAD and Evonik to boost biotech manufacturing and R&D (research and development) in Qatar.Elaborating on the infrastructure development, it said Qatar Precision Health Institute -- an umbrella entity that brings together existing strengths in health sciences and genomics within Qatar Foundation’s Qatar Biobank and Qatar Genome Programme -- has supported 508 projects involving hundreds of researchers from 20 healthcare institutions in Qatar.(Ends)

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today sustained bullish run for the second straight session as its key index gained more than 28 points on the back of foreign funds’ buying interests.The consumer goods and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,850.33 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,784 points.The foreign individuals were seen net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 2.64%.About 51% of the traded constituents extended gains to investors in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.52bn or 0.23% to QR649.5bn, mainly on small and microcap segments.The Gulf retail investors were increasingly bullish in the main market, which saw as many as 0.03mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.08mn trade across 10 deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The local individuals were seen increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.26%, the All Islamic Index by 0.22% and the All Share Index by 0.21% in the main market.The consumer goods and sector index gained 0.78%, industrials (0.68%), banks and financial services (0.15%) and telecom (0.01%); while transport declined 0.49%, real estate (0.32%) and insurance (0.25%).As many as 27 stocks gained, while 21 declined and five were unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Meeza, QLM, Medicare Group, Qatar National Cement, Commercial Bank, Inma Holding, Woqod, Industries Qatar, Gulf International Services, Qatar Electricity and Water and Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Qatari Investors Group, Milaha, Al Mahhar Holding and Barwa were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR23.34mn compared to QR5.47mn the previous day.The foreign individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR2.56mn against net sellers of QR1.03mn on October 21.The Gulf retail investors’ net buying expanded significantly to QR2.4mn compared to QR0.32mn on Tuesday.However, the local retail investors’ net selling strengthened noticeably to QR24.34mn against QR15.59mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR5.98mn compared with net buyers of QR4.03mn on October 21.The Arab individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.18mn against net buyers of QR2.88mn on Tuesday.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined marginally to QR3.2mn compared to QR3.93mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth consecutive day.The main market saw an 11% contraction in trade volumes to 122.05mn shares but on 12% jump in value to QR313.21mn and 20% in deals to 20,699.In the venture market, a total of 0.15mn equities valued at QR0.35mn changed hands across 45 transactions.

Qatar and the UK today explored opportunities for joint cooperation and knowledge exchange to strengthen the international efforts in combating terrorism financing.This was underscored by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Assistant Governor for Supervision Hamad Ahmad al-Mulla in his opening remarks at the workshop on combating terrorism financing, organised by the National Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Committee (NAMLC), in cooperation with the British Embassy, Doha.The NAMLC assumes a prominent role in coordinating between various State authorities concerned with combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing; communicates and cooperates with regional and international peers to unify anti-money laundering efforts.He said the workshop serves as a valuable opportunity for national entities to enhance their acquisition of best practices used in the UK and to establish direct communication channels with their counterparts there, contributing to the development of national policies and procedures, improving the efficiency of work teams, and enhancing coordination among various concerned bodies.The workshop discussed several important topics, including the nature of threats and general trends in terrorism financing, public-private partnership models, joint prosecutions and investigations, the role of law enforcement authorities and regulatory bodies in combating terrorism financing, as well as the UK's global strategy and approach to international sanctions, in addition to the use of crypto assets and crowdfunding as potential tools for illicit financing.Alastair Totty, Director of the Counter-Terrorism Department in the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, highlighted the cooperation with the Qatari side in combating terrorism financing, pointing to the importance of exchanging expertise between both parties.The UK "is firmly committed to disrupting terrorism financing, with its current focus within the UK is on detecting and preventing self-financing and the misuse of legitimate sectors, whereas its focus internationally is on targeting the financial infrastructure that supports major terrorist organisations", he said."The UK is working on updating its international counter-terrorism strategy to ensure its integration with the broader counter-terrorism strategy," he added.Highlighting that the use of new technologies continues to challenge traditional detection and disruption tools like Bitcoin; he said this evolution means the response also needs to adapt."We will work more closely with our priority countries across regions, notably the Gulf, East Africa, South and Southeast Asia. The foreign office, alongside the home office, Ministry of Defence and the UK intelligence agencies will continue to coordinate our efforts to disrupt these networks and strengthen our partners' capabilities," according to him.

Reflecting the ease in the US-China trade tensions, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today gained more than 13 points despite the market skewed towards shakers.The foreign funds were seen bullish as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.12% to 10,821.85 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,793 points.The domestic institutions turned net buyers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 2.37%.The Gulf individuals were seen bullish in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR0.85bn or 0.13% to QR647.98bn, mainly on microcap segments.The telecom, insurance and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, which saw as many as 0.33mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.74mn trade across 53 deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen gaining on par with the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Arab retail investors continued to be bullish but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.12%, the All Islamic Index by 0.12% and the All Share Index by 0.14% in the main market.The telecom sector index shot up 1%, insurance (0.58%), banks and financial services (0.26%) and consumer goods and services (0.11%); while real estate declined 1.04%, transport (0.2%) and industrials (0.17%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 27 declined and three were unchanged.Major movers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Medicare Group, QIIB, Ooredoo, Estithmar Holding, Salam International Investment, Industries Qatar and Vodafone Qatar.Nevertheless, about 52% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Qamco, Commercial Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Aamal Company, Gulf International Services, Mannai Corporation, Inma Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Widam Food, Al Mahhar Holding, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Mazaya Qatar, Ezdan, United Development Company, Nakilat and Gulf Warehousing. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR5.47mn compared with net sellers of QR12.1mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR4.03mn against net sellers of QR0.52mn on October 20.The Gulf retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.32mn compared with net sellers of QR5.1mn on Monday.However, the local retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR15.59mn against net buyers of QR4.41mn the previous day.The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.03mn compared with net buyers of QR0.19mn on October 20.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined noticeably to QR3.93mn against QR7.49mn on Monday.The Arab individual investors’ net buying shrank markedly to QR2.88mn compared to QR5.62mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the third consecutive day.The main market saw an 11% jump in trade volumes to 136.86mn shares but on 7% fall in value to QR279.6mn and 2% in deals to 17,259.In the venture market, a total of 0.07mn equities valued at QR0.15mn changed hands across 22 transactions.

The second cycle of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology's (MCIT) Scale Now – a growth programme designed to equip Qatar’s digital entrepreneurs achieve success on local, regional, and global levels and featuring as many as 13 high-potential firms from Qatar and beyond – is scheduled to conclude on November 15, 2025.The Cycle 2 – currently in the capacity building phase, with pilot and expansion plans in progress – has entities driving innovation across AI (artificial intelligence), Healthtech, EdTech, Gaming, Cybersecurity, ERP (enterprise resource planning), Retail, and Sustainability; said MCIT in a presentation made recently.The Cycle 2 has two AI companies Bilby, which provides AI-driven data analytics that evaluate public statements to predict future behaviour; and Khadoom, an on-demand AI-powered personal assistant platform that helps users outsource daily errands through messaging apps.It saw SEK Games, a Turkish game development studio specialising in free-to-play mobile games in the idle, arcade, and simulation genres; Adeer, offering a business management app that simplifies sales, inventory, finance, and tax operations for small and micro businesses; and ENABLE, providing an AI-driven retail platform that boosts revenue through customer loyalty and operational optimisation.On Cybersecurity, Cytomate delivers automated threat assessment and cyber defence solutions that reduce human error and enhance protection.The Cycle 2 has two Edtech firms as Ynmo, which offers a bilingual AI-powered platform that helps educators create personalised learning plans for children with disabilities; and Kamkalima, which develops Arabic literacy through interactive learning tools, AI features, and a comprehensive digital content library.The Cycle 2 has four Healthtech firms as Rhazes, providing a generative AI clinical assistant that supports doctors with real-time patient care guidance; and Dieture, offering a personalised meal subscription service that delivers customised, health-focused meals.It also had PhysioHome, connecting patients with licensed rehabilitation professionals for home-based therapy and care; and Shezlong, operating a secure mental health and psychotherapy platform for Arabic-speaking users in the Middle East and North Africa.On environment and sustainability, the Cycle 2 has Nafas, which offers AI-driven air quality management through hardware-as-a-service, helping buildings maintain healthy indoor environments efficiently.The Cycle 2 companies are currently participating in an intensive capability-building phase, combining specialised mentorship with targeted business acceleration.This phase focuses on four core areas such as Strategy, which encompasses growth mapping, market positioning, and competitive differentiation; Product (product-market fit, feature refinement, and scalability engineering); Operations (key performance indicators alignment, process efficiency, and resource optimisation), and Finance (forecasting, capital structure, and investor readiness).The programme’s capability modules turn ambition into execution, equipping founders not just to grow, but to lead sustainably."Following the capability-building stage, Cycle 2 will progress into pilot development and regional expansion planning, partnering with local enterprises and government entities to co-develop solutions, validate business models, and prepare companies for global scale," MCIT said.The Cycle 1 brought together six market-ready companies delivering solutions from digital payments and marketplaces to airport operations and immersive media.It saw Mzad Qatar, providing a multi-category marketplace with a digital auction platform that connects buyers and sellers; SkipCash, enabling businesses to implement secure online payment solutions through a streamlined digital platform; and EMMA Systems, delivering airport software that improves operational efficiency and data management.The Cycle 1 also saw ADGS, offering behavioural biometrics and predictive maintenance powered by proprietary AI models; SPONIX, providing immersive video solutions and virtual advertising that enable engaging real-time content during live events; and ClassTap, offering flexible access to more than 3,000 fitness studios and classes through a subscription platform.

Mirroring the trends in the regional markets due to weak oil prices, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today continued bearish run for the second straight session as its key index fell about 29 points.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.26% to 10,808.5 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,855 points.The domestic institutions turned bearish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 2.25%.About 58% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation shed QR2.17bn or 0.33% to QR647.13bn, mainly dragged by small cap segments.The insurance, telecom and industrials counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure in the main market, which saw as many as 0.06mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.14mn trade across 26 deals.The Gulf institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The foreign retail investors’ lower net buying had its marginal impact on the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.26%, the All Islamic Index by 0.23% and the All Share Index by 0.25% in the main market.The insurance sector index tanked 1.24%, telecom (0.77%), industrials (0.42%), banks and financial services (0.15%), transport (0.09%) and real estate (0.01%); while consumer goods and services were up 0.08%.As many as 17 stocks gained, while 30 declined and five were unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included QLM, Qatar Insurance, Ezdan, Qatar German Medical Devices, QIIB, Medicare Group, Industries Qatar, Gulf International Services, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Electricity and Water, Aamal Company, Estithmar Holding, Ooredoo and Nakilat.Nevertheless, Qamco, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Mazaya Qatar, Vodafone Qatar, Barwa and Meeza were among the gainers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR12.1mn compared with net buyers of QR0.21mn the previous day.The domestic institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR0.52mn against net buyers of QR6.14mn on October 19.The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined noticeably to QR7.49mn compared to QR14.3mn on Sunday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying weakened perceptibly to QR0.19mn against QR1.87mn the previous day.However, the Arab individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR5.62mn compared with net sellers of QR6.41mn on October 19.The local individual investors were net buyers to the extent of QR4.41mn against net sellers of QR10.9mn on Sunday.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR5.1mn compared to QR5.21mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second consecutive day.The main market saw 26% jump in trade volumes to 123.39mn shares, 25% in value to QR301.7mn and 21% in deals to 17,540.In the venture market, a total of 0.07mn equities valued at QR0.18mn changed hands across 32 transactions.

Doha Bank, one of Qatar’s leading financial institutions, and PayTabs Group, a payment orchestration solutions provider in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena), have signed a strategic partnership to provide value-added services that enhance the e-Commerce ecosystem for merchants in Qatar.The collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing Qatar’s cashless economy, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and promoting innovation in digital payment solutions in line with Qatar National Vision 2030."At Doha Bank, we are committed to empowering businesses with secure, efficient, and innovative financial solutions that support the growth of Qatar’s digital economy. This partnership with PayTabs reflects our dedication to fostering local entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and the continued evolution of digital commerce in the country," said Dimitrios Kokosioulis, the deputy chief executive officer of Doha Bank.Eyad Musharbash, Regional Head and Operating Partner for the PayTabs Group Levant and Southern Gulf, said this partnership is a strategic milestone in its Mena expansion."PayTabs Group will collaborate with Doha Bank to help build Qatar’s cashless economy by enabling SMEs, e-commerce platforms and corporate enterprises with secure, innovative and cost-effective digital payment solutions that align with the nation’s vision for a connected, inclusive future," he said.This strategic alliance underscores both organisations’ shared vision to strengthen Qatar’s position as a regional hub for digital innovation. Through this collaboration, Doha Bank and PayTabs Group will jointly support merchants, entrepreneurs, and corporations by providing secure, seamless, and future-ready digital payment solutions.The initiative reflects Doha Bank’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth, key pillars in achieving the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Doha's real estate sector, which is poised for growth due to multitude of reasons, reflects high investment intensity with an average capex (capital expenditure) of more than $202mn per project, according to a joint report of Aqarat (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) and Invest Qatar. "With an average capex of more than $202mn per project, the (real estate) sector is amongst the top five sectors by foreign direct investment (FDI) capex," the report said. Over the past 20 years, Qatar's real estate sector has been the second largest recipient of FDI capex among the non-hydrocarbons sectors, it said. The sector is estimated to have created 17.4% of non-hydrocarbon FDI capex totalling around $1.7bn, playing a key role in Qatar's diversification, it said. Among non-hydrocarbons FDI capex, chemicals had the highest share of 22.1%, hotels and tourism (13.1%), metals (12.9%) and renewable energy (5.6%). Real estate sector is estimated to have created more than 14,000 jobs, making it the largest job creator in the non-hydrocarbon sector, according to the report. Qatar's realty sector saw a strong growth in 2024 with sales up 38% since 2018 and 5,535 units. Contracts rose 10% annually, led by an 8% increase in the commercial sector. Total mortgage value transactions grew 43% year-on-year to $17.4bn, it said, adding total number of transactions rose by 6.3% to 1,026, reflecting the continued maturity of Qatar’s real estate sector. The total contract value reached around $7.3bn, boosted by the World Cup legacy and ongoing infrastructure projects, the report said. "Qatar’s progressive real estate laws are accelerating investment through private sector and foreign ownership," it said, adding ownership is permitted in nine freehold areas and 16 usufruct/lease-hold areas among all sectors. Doha's real estate and construction sectors are poised to maintain strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% through 2029, reaching a combined value of $45bn, the report said. In the past decade, real estate and construction had increased their share of Qatar’s GDP from 13.8% to 18.5% underscoring their rising strategic importance and potential for advancing Qatar’s economic diversification, supporting sustainable growth and investment. Over the past 10 years, real estate surged by 55% and construction by 57%, highlighting significant growth momentum, the report said, adding Qatar's population growth of 50% between 2014 and 2029 is a key catalyst for rising real estate demand, supported by ongoing urban and infrastructure development. The country’s real GDP is forecast to grow at 2.4% this year and 5.4% in 2026, according to the report. Qatar's real estate market is poised for continued expansion, support by key strengths and strategic enablers such as strong investment environment such as economic stability, accessible financing and attractive returns; high quality of life; and robust infrastructure, it said. This growth is further driven by emerging market trends like focus on sustainability (green buildings and environmentally conscious development), technology integration and lifestyle and leisure demand, according to the joint report.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today opened the week weak with its key index losing more than 13 points on selling pressure especially in the banks and consumer goods sectors.The Arab individuals were seen increasingly bearish as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.13% to 10,837.18 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,899 points.The foreign institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 2.52%.More than 47% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation was rather flat at QR649.3bn despite selling pressure in microcap segments.The local retail investors continued to be net profit takers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 3,676 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn trade across 14 deals.The Gulf individuals also continued to be net sellers but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf funds were increasingly net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.13%, the All Islamic Index by 0.06% and the All Share Index by 0.1% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index shrank 0.4%, consumer goods and services (0.24%) and telecom (0.09%); while industrials gained 0.56%, real estate (0.35%), transport (0.28%) and insurance (0.04%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 25 declined and six were unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Medicare Group, Estithmar Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank, Commercial Bank, Vodafone Qatar and Milaha. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, QLM, Qamco, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qatar Insurance, Widam Food, Al Mahhar Holding, Industries Qatar, Ezdan, Nakilat and Gulf Warehousing were among the movers in the main market.The Arab individual investors’ net selling increased noticeably to QR6.41mn compared to QR1.98mn last Thursday.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened significantly to QR0.21mn against QR35.7mn the previous trading day.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR14.3mn compared to QR12.73mn on October 16.The domestic funds turned net buyers to the tune of QR6.14mn against net profit takers of QR6.52mn last Thursday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying expanded marginally to QR1.87mn compared to QR1.78mn the previous trading day.The local individual investors’ net selling weakened substantially to QR10.9mn against QR32.66mn on October 16.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking eased markedly to QR5.21mn compared to QR9.09mn last Thursday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the extent of QR0.04mn on October 16.The main market saw 28% contraction in trade volumes to 98.11mn shares, 44% in value to QR240.93mn and 41% in deals to 14,462.In the venture market, a total of 9,508 equities valued at QR0.2mn changed hands across six transactions.

Doha’s hospitality market remains “stable” as tourism demand remains robust in 2025 with steady growth, especially in the leisure and staycation, which hold considerable untapped potential, according to KPMG in Qatar.Post-2022, the market stabilised with ADR (average daily rate) and RevPAR (revenue per available room) remaining above pre-World Cup levels amid steady growth in visitor arrivals, KPMG in Qatar said in its latest report.“Qatar’s hospitality sector rebounded steadily post-pandemic, supported by new events, attractions, and tourism initiatives,” the report said.As of YTD (year-to-date) August 2025, occupancy stands at about 69%, ADR at QR429, and RevPAR at QR300, reflecting a resilient performance, it said, adding Qatar’s hospitality sector continues to sustain “strong” momentum.February posted the strongest results, with occupancy at 82.5% and ADR at QR490, driven by favourable winter weather and major events such as the Global Champions Arabians Tour and the Web Summit.January and April also benefited from the pleasant climate, sustaining occupancy levels above 76%, it said, adding March saw the sharpest dip, with occupancy falling to 52.3% and ADR to QR369, reflecting muted demand during Ramadan, when shorter business hours and fewer leisure activities typically curb travel.From May to August, the market cooled, with RevPAR easing to QR243 in August, reflecting the off-peak summer period when high temperatures typically reduce travel in the region.KPMG in Qatar said tourism today is no longer defined by a single experience but by a spectrum of segments that cater to different traveller motivations. From sports and eco-conscious tourism to adventure, heritage, leisure, and staycations, the sector is evolving to meet diverse preferences, it said.“These segments collectively strengthen Qatar’s positioning as a diverse, year-round destination, appealing to international, regional, and domestic travellers,” it said.On leisure and staycation, it said such developments bring year-round demand drivers that balance Qatar’s tourism sector, particularly during weekends, holidays, and off-peak seasons, ensuring steadier performance.“The segment holds considerable untapped potential, especially through developing tailored staycation packages for international tourists and residents, families, couples, and young professionals, while also diversifying experiences beyond accommodation,” it said.By integrating wellness, recreation, dining, entertainment, adventure, and cultural activities into staycation offerings, Qatar can elevate these short breaks into comprehensive lifestyle experiences that strengthen domestic and regional demand, according to KPMG in Qatar.Qatar is positioned to spearhead new projects and initiatives that align with the latest trends shaping the hospitality and tourism sector, it said, highlighting The West Bay Beaches and Al Safliya Island Development project.By integrating entertainment and hospitality into a single destination and delivering it through a PPP (public private partnership) model, the project aligns with global trends of diversified tourism development supported by private investment, it said.“The West Bay Beaches and Al Safliya Island developments go beyond tourism, creating wide-ranging impacts across human, social, economic, and environmental dimensions. By enhancing quality of life, strengthening cultural identity, diversifying the economy, and embedding sustainability, they contribute directly to the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030,” the report said.

The US rate concerns and Washington's additional tariffs on China were seen masking positive vibes from the corporate earnings announcements and rising oil prices that the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) close the week on a negative turf.The foreign institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.75% this week which saw Commercial Bank report net profit of QR1.79bn in the first nine months of this year.The Gulf individuals were increasingly bearish in the main bourse this week which saw QIIB register net profit of QR1.1bn in January-September 2025.The Gulf institutions’ substantially weakened net buying had its influence on the main market this week which saw Woqod register net profit of QR751.6mn in the first nine months of this year.About 64% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse this week which saw Barwa Real Estate Group announce the launch of new luxury brand “Barwa Royal” as a premium realty offering and unveiled the second phase of “Barwa Hills”.The real estate, transport, insurance and telecom counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure this week which saw Qatar National Cement's January-September net profit at QR78.66mn.However, the local retail investors turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.63mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR1.46mn trade across 184 deals.The Arab individuals were increasingly bullish in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 1,585 AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.02mn trade across seven deals.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation eroded QR4.93bn or 0.75% to QR649.29bn on the back of mid and small cap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the increase in the main and junior markets this week which saw the realty, industrials and banking sectors together constitute about 74% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index shed 0.75%, the All Share Index by 0.72% and the All Islamic Index by 0.35% this week which saw Elegancia Facilities Management, a subsidiary of Estithmar Holding, has been awarded the management of 14 newly constructed schools under the public-private partnership framework led by Ashghal.The realty sector index plummeted 1.66%, transport (1.52%), insurance (1.5%), telecom (1%), industrials (0.69%), banks and financial services (0.54%) and consumer goods and services (0.3%) this week.The market was skewed towards shakers with as many as 33 constituents reporting declines, while 17 gained and two were unchanged this week.Major shakers in the main market included Commercial Bank, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Insurance, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qatar German Medical Devices, Dukhan Bank, Lesha Bank, Medicare Group, Mannai Corporation, Meeza, Al Mahhar Holding, Ezdan, Ooredoo, Gulf International Services, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and United Development Company. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, QIIB, Mazaya Qatar, Qamco, Salam International Investment, AlRayan Bank and Widam Food were among the gainers in the main market this week.The foreign institutions’ net selling increased significantly to QR33.92mn compared to QR0.97mn the previous week.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking strengthened substantially to QR10.64mn against QR0.73mn a week ago.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened drastically to QR1.47mn compared to QR43.96mn the week ended October 9.However, the Qatari individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR24.8mn against net sellers of QR38.51mn the previous week.The Arab individual investors’ net buying expanded considerably to QR11.46mn compared to QR7.68mn a week ago.The foreign retail investors’ net buying surged noticeably to QR10.86mn against QR1.57mn the week ended October 9.The Arab institutions’ net buying increased marginally to QR1.28mn compared to QR0.15mn the previous week.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking eased perceptibly to QR5.3mn against QR13.16mn a week ago.The main market saw 14% jump in trade volumes to 653.27mn shares, 27% in value to QR1.8bn and 23% in deals to 102,031 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes jumped almost 15-fold to 0.88mn equities and value by more than 14-fold to QR2.15mn on more than five-fold increase in transactions to 205.

The foreign institutions’ substantial buying interests today lifted the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) more than 157 points and its capitalisation added about QR9bn.The banking, transport and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index soared 1.47% to 10,850.91 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,702 points.The Gulf institutions were increasingly bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 2.65%.The domestic funds’ weakened net profit booking had its influence on the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR8.76bn or 1.37% to QR649.29bn; mainly on large and midcap segments.The foreign individuals continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 0.07mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.15mn trade across 30 deals.The local retail investors were seen net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf individuals were increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 1.47%, the All Islamic Index by 1.1% and the All Share Index by 1.4% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index shot up 1.79%, transport (1.54%), industrials (1.5%) and telecom (0.99%); while real estate declined 0.6%, insurance (0.34%) and consumer goods and services (0.2%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 25 declined and four were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Qatar Islamic Bank, Industries Qatar, QNB, Qamco, Milaha, Qatar Electricity and Water, Ooredoo and Nakilat.Nevertheless, QLM, Commercial Bank, Medicare Group, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar National Cement, Ezdan, United Development Company and Vodafone Qatar were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR35.7mn compared with net profit takers of QR3.94mn the previous day.The Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened substantially to QR12.73mn against QR0.06mn on October 15.The domestic institutions’ net selling declined noticeably to QR6.52mn compared to QR10.88mn on Wednesday.However, the local individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR32.66mn against net buyers of QR5.17mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking expanded significantly to QR9.09mn compared to QR1.4mn on October 15.The Arab individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.98mn against net buyers of QR4.73mn on Wednesday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying shrank markedly to QR1.78mn compared to QR5.31mn the previous day.The Arab institutions’ net buying decreased marginally to QR0.04mn against QR0.94mn on October 15.The main market saw an 11% jump in trade volumes to 135.89mn shares, 19% in value to QR429.22mn and 8% in deals to 24,535.In the venture market, a total of 0.02mn equities valued at QR0.04mn changed hands across eight transactions.

Qatar witnessed a total of 55.08mn transactions valued at QR16.68bn through the country's payment system in September 2025, according to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) data.The number of transactions and total value grew 4.81% and 3.35% month-on-month respectively in September 2025, even as Fawran and QMP (Qatar Mobile Payment) were seen outpacing the total, the QCB said in its social media handle X.Qatar Payment System (QPS) is designed on the concept of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) and electronic straight through processing (e-STP).The point-of-sales constituted 51% of the payment system transaction, followed by e-commerce 25%, Fawran or instant payment system at 22% and QMP at 2% in the review period.There were 42.43mn card transactions through point-of-sales – which enables merchants to process payments and log transactions – valued at QR8.46bn in September 2025. The card transactions increased 4.02% and 2.79% month-on-month in volume and value respectively.The e-commerce transactions witnessed as many as 10.09mn transactions valued at QR4.23bn in the review period. While the number of transactions jumped 7%, total value was down by a marginal 0.24% compared with August 2025.The point-of-sales and e-commerce together amounted to QR12.69bn through 52.52mn transactions this September, which showed 4.58% and 1.68% increase in volume and value respectively on a monthly basis.Fawran -- a real-time payment service in Qatar, allowing users to send and receive money instantly and securely within the country -- registered as many as 2.21mn transactions valued at QR3.69bn in September 2025, growing 10.5% and 9.17% month-on-month respectively.There have been a total of 3.39mn total registered Fawran accounts in September this year, growing by 1.8% month-on-month.Fawran was launched in 2024 and system members are QNB, Commercial Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Ahli Bank, Dukhan Bank, Doha Bank, QIIB and AlRayan Bank.QMP – which allows immediate transfer of funds between registered customers through any registered payment service providers – saw as many as 359,462 transactions valued at QR294.63mn in September 2025, registering 7.72% and 5.88% growth against August 2025 levels.There has been a total of 1.21mn registered wallets in the review period, a 1.63% decline on a monthly basis.The QMP is a centralised payment system that was launched in 2020, to enable individuals and corporates to perform instant fund transfers between e-wallets within payment service providers in Qatar.The system members are QNB, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Ahli Bank, QIIB, Arab Bank, HSBC Qatar, AlRayan Bank, Dukhan Bank, i-pay and Ooredoo Money.The QPS is based on the SWIFT network and messages standards and utilises the SWIFT messages to reconcile and settle the local payments and securities ownership transfers.Qatar's retail payment system comprise electronic cheque clearing system; national network system for ATMS and Points of Sales (NAPS); QMP; direct deposit and debit (QATCH); electronic payment gateway (QPay); wage protection system (WPS); and Fawran.(Ends)

Qatar witnessed a total of 55.08mn transactions valued at QR16.68bn through the country's payment system in September 2025, according to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) data.Qatar Payment System (QPS) is designed on the concept of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) and electronic straight through processing (e-STP).The point-of-sales constituted 51% of the payment system transaction, followed by e-commerce 25%, Fawran or instant payment system at 22% and Qatar Mobile Payment or QMP at 2% in the review period.There were 42.43mn card transactions through point-of-sales – which enables merchants to process payments and log transactions – valued at QR8.46bn in September 2025.The e-commerce transaction winessed as many as 10.09mn transactions valued at QR4.23bn in the review period.Fawran -- a real-time payment service in Qatar, allowing users to send and receive money instantly and securely within the country -- registered as many as 2.21mn transactions valued at QR3.69bn in September 2025.There have been a total of 3.39mn total registered Fawran accounts in September this year.QMP – which allows immediate transfer of funds between registered customers through any registered payment service providers – saw as many as 359,462 transactions valued at QR294.63mn in September 2025. There has been a total of 1.21mn registered wallets in the review period.The QMP is a centralised payment system that was launched in 2020, to enable individuals and corporates to perform instant fund transfers between e-wallets within payment service providers in Qatar.

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has roped in four partners - Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council and Invest Qatar - for its Scale Now programme for digital entrepreneurs. "This strategic collaboration undoubtedly will contribute to promoting the achievement of Scale Now programme and harmonising efforts and direct these efforts that will contribute to the growth of start-ups to build a sustainable and large-scale economy in alignment with our digital agenda," Faraj Jassim Abdullah, Director of the Digital Economy Department at MCIT told media announcing the new partners. The beneficiaries will receive support from MCIT to ensure their ability to penetrate markets, while QDB pledges to provide funding tools and ability for exportation, and Invest Qatar will link those investors with global markets. He said Scale Now programme represents a significant step in empowering digital entrepreneurs in Qatar, equipping them with the tools and guidance needed to scale their businesses and expand into local and global markets. Ali al-Mawlawi, Director of Business Development at MoCI, said the ministry would work with the partners to promote transparency and ensure that the SMEs (small and medium enterprises) have access to funding and opportunities as they are a key pillar to the national economy. "Scale Now programme has a paramount importance as a national platform that accelerates the development and improvement of productivity of SMEs," he said, adding the role of MoCI is to transform the ability of these companies into a real growth by linking with the private sector firms. Mohammed al-Emadi, Executive Director of Incubation and Venture Capital Investment at QDB, said the Scale Now programme complements its support through pre-acceleration and acceleration programmes. “This partnership will enable companies to access investment as well as entrepreneurship talent, provide consultations and accessibility and penetration to markets," he said, adding QDB has incubated and accelerated more than 600 startups. Nada al-Olaqi, Senior Director, Innovation, Development and Piloting Programmes, QRDI Council, said it works in accelerating technologies to contribute to the transition towards knowledge-based economy through financing, building national capacities and mentoring. This partnership create a national platform for development that combine capital, knowledge, policies, as well as innovation to create a new generation of entrepreneurs and consolidate the position of Qatar in the area of innovation and utilising technologies, according to her. "We, along with the other partners from all stakeholders, recognise the importance of the private sector, especially SMEs and startup companies, in realising the strategic vision through the contribution of the private sector," she said. Dr Hamad al-Naimi, Strategy Manager of Invest Qatar, said its role starts with discovering opportunities and developing the businesses, and scaling up and providing accessibility through facilitating contacts with partners in the private and public sector. "We will link those start-pp companies with international investments through our relations," he said, adding "we will enable those companies to expand into new horizons and new markets, and help them in establishing strategic relations and partnerships regionally and internationally." Terming the partnership with MCIT as a 'practical example for the productive cooperation'; he said Invest Qatar would enable and empower entrepreneurship by helping new cohorts in receiving grants and financial support that will contribute to more innovation in the entrepreneurship landscape in Qatar.

Barwa Real Estate Group has sold a plot of land in Al Wakra, owned by Qatar Real Estate Investment Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barwa Real Estate Group.Under the agreement, the sale process for the plot, which has an area of 26,632 sqm, will be completed according to the terms of the agreement, Barwa said in its regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.This transaction is part of Barwa Real Estate's strategy to improve its portfolio performance and divest from certain non-income-generating assets, which will positively reflect on its financial indicators, contributing to achieving sustainable growth in shareholder returns."There is no conflict of interest between the contracting parties in this agreement," the filing said.

QSE edges down on domestic funds’ selling pressure, but M-cap in the positive terrainThe Qatar Stock Exchange yesterday edged down marginally with its key index losing about four points as foreign funds were seen increasingly net profit takers.The telecom, industrials and insurance counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index was down 0.03% to 10,835.95 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,881 points.The domestic funds turned net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 2.51%.The Gulf individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation however added QR0.63bn or 0.1% to QR650.56bn; mainly on microcap segments.The local retail investors’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, which saw as many as 0.08mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.19mn trade across 43 deals.The foreign individuals’ lower net buying also had its marginal impact on the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the Gulf institutions were increasingly bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index declined 0.03% and the All Islamic Index by 0.19%, while the All Share Index rose 0.19% in the main market.The telecom sector index shrank 0.62%, industrials (0.44%) and insurance (0.19%); while transport gained 0.88%, real estate (0.43%), consumer goods and services (0.21%) and banks and financial services (0.19%).As many as 32 stocks gained, while 18 declined and one was unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included QIIB, Ooredoo, Gulf International Services, Qatar Insurance, Industries Qatar, Meeza, Estithmar Holding and Qamco.Nevertheless, about 63% of the traded constituents extended gains with major movers being QLM, Mazaya Qatar, Ahlibank Qatar, Nakilat, Qatar Oman Investment, Inma Holding, Qatar German Medical Devices, Widam Food, Ezdan and United Development Company. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking increased perceptibly to QR25.67mn compared to QR21.95mn the previous day.The domestic institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR3.45mn against net buyers of QR1mn on Sunday.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking expanded marginally to QR0.42mn compared to QR0.34mn on October 12.The local individual investors’ net selling weakened substantially to QR3.68mn against QR20.17mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors’ net profit booking decreased markedly to QR3.16mn compared to QR4.14mn on Sunday.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened significantly to QR14.81mn against QR4.08mn on October 12.The Arab individuals were net buyers to the extent of QR7.88mn compared with net sellers of QR2.41mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.31mn on Sunday.The main market saw 8% jump in trade volumes to 144.47mn shares, 22% in value to QR350.41mn and 40% in deals to 18,746.In the venture market, a total of 0.14mn equities valued at QR0.34mn changed hands across 63 transactions.