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Qatar's maritime sector saw higher vessels call and brisk growth in movement of containers, RORO and livestock through Mesaieed, Doha and Al Ruwais ports this February on an annualised basis, according to the official estimates. As many as 227 ships arrived in the three ports, which reported 14.65% year-on-year growth. However, it fell 9.92% month-on-month in February 2025, according to figures released by 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 132 vessels call (excluding military) on the port in the review period. As many as 479 vessels calls were reported through the three ports in the first two months of this year. The container movement through three ports amounted to 113,186 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), shooting up 1.66% on a yearly basis but amid a 0.89% decline on monthly basis in the review period. Hamad Port, the largest eco-friendly project in the region and internationally recognised as one of the largest green ports in the world, alone handled more than 113,000 TEUs of containers handled in February. The three ports together handled as many as 237,479 TEUs in January-February 2025. 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 three ports handled 7,599 RORO in February 2025, which registered 6.09% growth year-on-year but tanked 40.82% on monthly basis. Hamad Port alone handled 7,568 units in February this year. The three ports handled as many as 20,440 RORO in the first two months of this year. Qatar's automobile sector has been witnessing stronger sales, notably in heavy equipment, private motorcycles and private vehicles, according to the data of the National Planning Council. The three ports were seen handling 74,202 livestock this February, which showed 4.19% and 26.2% surge year-on-year and month-on-month respectively. Hamad Port handled as many as 5,570 livestock heads in the review period. The three ports together handled as many as 133,000 livestock heads during January-February 2025. The building materials traffic through the three ports stood at 40,408 tonnes in February 2025, which was down 1.2% on an annualised basis even as it surged 29.6% month-on-month. The three ports had reported a total of 71,587 tonnes of building materials handled in the first two months of this year. The general and bulk cargo handled through the three ports amounted to 109,394 freight tonnes in February 2025, which plummeted 35.35% and 23.19% on yearly and monthly basis respectively. Hamad Port – whose multi-use terminal is designed to serve the supply chains for the RORO, grains and livestock – handled as much as 51,685 freight tonnes of breakbulk and 37,269 freight tonnes of bulk in February 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 the 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 regional trade hub.

Snap Inc, an American technology company, will launch in Qatar its first augmented reality (AR) academy in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.In this regard, Snap Inc signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Government Communications Office (GCO) at the Web Summit 2025.The partnership with GCO for the first AR academy will unlock new opportunities and empower the next generation of AR creators and developers.This move also underscores Snap’s long-term commitment to investing in Mena's digital ecosystem, by building AR capabilities for partners both old and new, which is critical to digital transformation agendas."This initiative aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 in building a knowledge-based economy and nurturing the next generation of creators by equipping them with the essential tools and skills to navigate global digital transformations. Through our investment in such pioneering programmes, we continue to strengthen Qatar's position as a regional centre for digital excellence and technological innovation," said Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor al-Thani, director of the GCO and chairman of the Permanent Web Summit Organising Committee.Hussein Freijeh, General Manager of Snap Inc in the Middle East said the long-term success of the technology requires a vibrant developer and creator ecosystem, which is critical to the digital transformation taking place in the region."Once again we are honoured to work hand in hand with GCO to drive the growth and digital upskilling of the thriving talent pool and we cannot wait to see the groundbreaking work they produce," he added.AR has played a pivotal role in visual communication for more than a decade, pioneered by Snapchat and widely loved by online communities and brands all over the world for its ability to elevate creativity, connection and self-expression. From retail try-ons, and now Gen AI, Snapchat has evolved AR into a tool for human connection and spatial computing. Today, more than 300mn people use AR on Snapchat and more than 85% of Mena daily users interact with Lenses every day.In the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, more than 400mn Snapchatters engaged with Gen AI-powered Lenses over 4bn times.At present, more than 375,000 AR creators, developers, and teams from nearly every country in the world have built over 4mn Lenses.Many of these are created using fifth generation Snap Spectacles, which have capabilities to better build and experiment with AR, allowing users to interact with the world and each other in entirely new ways.

Qatar offers "unique" foreign direct investment (FDI) avenues as part of its strategy to be a competitive and growing economy, the heart of which is the private sector, according to a top official of the National Planning Council (NPC)."Within our plans, startups and entrepreneurs are at the heart of it. One of the main seven outcomes is creating a competitive growing economy. At the heart of that is the private sector, and at the heart of the private sector creation is creating the right ecosystem to support startups and SMEs or small and medium enterprises," NPC secretary-general Dr Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa told the Web Summit 2025, which concluded on Wednesday.Highlighting that the country witnessed development in stages; he said the first phase saw the creation of national champions like QNB, Ooredoo and Qatar Airways; and then it focused more on creating the right infrastructure, gearing towards the World Cup, which in itself was a major milestone within a bigger plans of Qatar National Vision 2030."Qatar is the first Gulf country to come out with national vision and now, we are reaping the benefits, investing more, and creating the right atmosphere," said al-Khalifa, who was earlier the chief executive officer of Qatar Development Bank (QDB).Stressing the need for a dynamic approach to development strategies, he said the world is changing by the minute and "we do understand these changes and we are agile. We adopt and change. But we ensure that we deliver on our promises."Highlighting that Qatar is set on a glorious path; he said the country's national development strategies bring the team together to ensure that it is not a bureaucratic state, rather help companies to set up and grow in Doha and reach global potential."It is part of our DNA to unlock potential for entrepreneurs and startup," he said, adding Qatar has its own unique offering when it comes to foreign direct investment because of its competitive advantages, robust infrastructure, hassle-free environment that ensures ease-of-doing business, and right talent.He said the multi-stakeholders such as Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council (QRDI), QDB, Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Qatar Free Zones and Invest Qatar join hands together under Government Communications Office (GCO) to help companies exist and flourish from Qatar.A recent report from QDB had said Qatar’s VC (venture capital) funding reported a remarkable 135% year-on-year rise to an all-time high of QR115mn in 2024, defying 19% and 29% decline globally and % in the Middle East and North Africa region respectively.Fintech retained dominance as most transacted industry, securing 29% of Qatar’s deals in 2024, up from 12% in 2023, it said, the share of fintech to total funding in Qatar improved from 14% in 2023 to 41% in 2024.

The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) and QNB on Wednesday entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive innovation in the banking and financial sector. Through this MoU - signed between Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive officer of the QFC Authority (QFCA) and Abdulla Mubarak al-Khalifa, QNB Group chief executive officer - QNB will act as an incubator for emerging opportunities in digital assets, tokenisation, and embedded finance; while the QFC serves as a referral mechanism, connecting new fintech firms with the bank. "This MoU marks a significant milestone for QFC and QNB, reinforcing our shared commitment toward positioning Qatar as a regional financial hub," al-Jaida said after signing the pact on the final day of the Web Summit 2025. Through this partnership, both the entities aim to drive innovation in banking services and financial solutions while accelerating the growth of fintech and alternative financing models in the country. In addition, the agreement would see the introduction of relevant VC (venture capital) funds and their respective portfolio companies to the local market, expanding funding options for local startups and fintech companies. "Through this dynamic, we can advance the development in these sectors, in line with the third financial services sector strategy. I am looking forward to adding lasting value to our stakeholders and Qatar's financial sector through this partnership," al-Jaida said. The QFC's pact with QNB comes in the wake of digital assets framework, which was last year launched by the QFCA and the QFC Regulatory Authority in line with the Third Financial Sector Strategy issued by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB). The framework – a comprehensive and innovative regime for the creation and regulation of digital assets in the QFC, paving the way for companies to offer token services – sets high standards for the process of asset tokenisation and puts in place a trusted technology infrastructure that will ensure trust and confidence among consumers, service providers, and industry stakeholders. The development of the framework, which is one of the important goals established by the Third Financial Sector Strategic Plan, provides not only legal recognition of smart contracts but also establishes legal and regulatory foundation for tokenisation, a key tool to protect sensitive data.

South Korea's EnergyX, a global leader in AI-driven energy self-sufficiency solutions for zero-energy buildings (ZEBs), is opening a research and development (R&D) centre in Qatar as it plans a major expansion into the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) region where it plans to invest more than $100mn in the next five years."We believe that Qatar is a perfect place for being the centre of R&D," Sean Sunghyun Park, founder and chief executive officer of EnergyX told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the Web Summit Qatar 2025, which concluded on Wednesday.Renowned for its advanced R&D and innovation ecosystem, Qatar provides an "exceptional" platform for EnergyX to strengthen its research capabilities and unveil cutting-edge technologies for the energy self-sufficient buildings, he said, adding talks are in the advanced stages with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) regarding the registration and licensing.EnergyX, a 'sustainable architecture technology company, not only manufactures and installs Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPVs) but also offers AI (artificial intelligence)-driven simulation, software, optimisation, and management of the entire process all the way from architectural design to architectural operations once the building is finished.BIPV systems seamlessly integrate solar energy generation with functional and aesthetic building components such as façades and rooftops. These systems offer insulation, waterproofing, drainage, fireproofing, and sound absorption capabilities.AI-powered solutions enabling advanced simulation, analysis, optimisation, and management for ZEB design, construction, and operations. These solutions align with ESG or environment, social and governance initiatives; RE100 goals, a global initiative bringing together the world's most influential businesses committed to using 100% renewable electricity in their operations; and international energy efficiency standards, he said.“Expanding into the GCC marks a significant milestone for EnergyX as we partner with the world’s most forward-thinking regions to advance energy self-sufficiency for buildings,” he said, adding by focusing on Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, it is building partnerships that bring the most advanced building technologies to the world’s most ambitious projects.The company is scouting for strategic partners and such partnership involves strategic growth for both EnergyX and the countries, he said, adding it seeks to make meaningful contribution to the ICVs (in-country value).“Each GCC market offers unique opportunities for EnergyX to deliver impactful solutions, from advancing research in Qatar to scaling operations solutions in the UAE and contributing to iconic mega-projects in Saudi Arabia,” according to Jean Jacques Dandrieux, chief executive officer of EnergyX Qatar.The company, which has manufacturing plants for BIPVs in South Korea, is exploring options on establishing manufacturing base in the GCC and it is yet to decide on the site (whether Qatar, the UAE or Saudi Arabia), according to him."Our product, the BIPVs, is not like you manufacture in one place and then export it. That doesn't work. In construction, time is money and we need to have the just-in-time production and deliver it on time. So, there is a need to have a manufacturing facility headquarter here in the GCC region," Park said, adding, "We are looking to invest more than $100mn (in the GCC) in the next five years."

Qatar Airways is set to unveil its first class cabin with new aircraft by embracing latest technology and digitalisation, according to its top official, setting a new benchmark for the global airline industry. "I will only give you an idea about a project that we have been working on lately for the last 4-5 months on our first class cabin,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Badr Mohammed al-Meer told the penultimate day of the Web Summit Qatar 2025. “And you will see what we're talking about when it comes to technology and digitalisation of our new cabin." Highlighting the many areas that the national carrier is trying to improve when it comes to technology and digitalisation of the passenger journey, he said that it will be “something different and it will change, it will create a new benchmark for the industry”. Asked when the customers can expect this new development, al-Meer said that "it will be with the new aircraft, may be end of 2026 or beginning of 2027". The national airline has developed a roadmap for several major new developments to help raise the bar in the global aviation landscape. Asserting that it is not talking about “two or three or five areas” of working on the passenger experience, al-Meer said that "we are talking about multiple projects on multiple areas, on multiple platforms”. Qatar Airways is implementing multiple projects with regards to artificial intelligence (AI), when it comes to catering, duty-free and booking online. "We are trying to use AI, to utilise AI, to give a better experience for our passengers," al-Meer said, adding that with AI, it can gauge and study sector-by-sector and season-by-season regarding the meal on board. Citing the London Heathrow flight, the official said that during the summer, the majority of the passengers are from the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries, and they order a specific type of meal. "AI will help us to provide the expected service that our passengers require,” al-Meer said. “Whether it is summer vacation, New Year or Chinese New Year, AI will make sure that we are not running out of the preferred meal on board." This, he said, would not only give a better customer experience but also reduce the number of wasted meals on board, thus saving cost for the airline. Al-Meer added that it is also part of the airline’s sustainability focus. Shedding light on one of his top priorities, “Qatar Airways 2.0”, which is about innovation, connectivity and people, he said: "We need to deliver multiple projects to enhance the experience of our passengers on multiple areas and do it in a very short time."

Qatar Airways on Tuesday said all its wide-body aircraft will have Starlink’s high-speed internet on board by end of this year, according to its top official.“By the end of this year, Starlink will be installed on all our wide bodies,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Badr Mohammed al-Meer said on the penultimate day of the Web Summit Qatar 2025.As of today, Qatar’s national carrier has implemented on 50% of its 777 fleet, which is 30 aircraft, he said at a dedicated session: Redefining aviation: How Qatar Airways sets the benchmark.This achievement comes four months after the airline launched the world’s first Boeing 777 Starlink-enabled flight and two months after surpassing its initial 2024 target of 12 installations by upgrading 15 aircraft with Starlink connectivity.Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Starlink Services, an international telecommunications provider that is a wholly owned subsidiary of American aerospace company SpaceX.Qatar Airways, according to him, has accelerated Starlink rollout, cutting installation time per aircraft from two-and-half to three days to mere 9.5 hours, reducing the retrofit by nearly three-quarters of the initial timeline. The national carrier is simplifying a complex process by replacing existing systems and installing new ones at record speed while maintaining the highest safety standards—achieving efficiency beyond the standard installation process.“Our plan was to have 50 aircraft by May of this year. I’m sure we will exceed this number,” he said, adding it is working very closely with Boeing and Airbus and Starlink teams.Citing that there was no certification to install Starlink on Airbus 350 or Boeing 787; al-Meer said the discussions were ongoing for months and for almost two or three years among the stakeholders such as SpaceX, Boeing and Airbus.“However, once we got involved, we managed to get everybody on the table. We agreed on a solution. And we will be the first airline to install a Starlink on our Dreamliner 787 and our Airbus 350 fleet,” he said.“We are delivering on our commitment to provide our passengers the best in-flight connectivity at an unprecedented pace. In just four months since launching the world’s first Boeing 777 Starlink-equipped flight, we have already installed this ground-breaking service on 30 aircraft—far exceeding our initial targets.This reflects the commendable efficiency and dedication of our team. Starlink Wi-Fi is a game-changer for our passengers who will soon enjoy uninterrupted connectivity on even more routes,” he said.With one of the fastest and most ambitious Starlink rollouts in the industry, Qatar Airways is setting new standards for in-flight connectivity by keeping passengers connected wherever they fly.

Qatar Airways is all set to unveil its first class cabin with new aircraft by embracing latest technology and digitalisation, thus setting a new benchmark for the global airline industry, according to its top official."I will only give you an idea about a project that we have been working on lately for the last four or five months on our first class cabin. And you will see what we're talking about when it comes to technology and digitalisation of our new cabin," Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer Badr Mohammed al-Meer told the penultimate day of the Web Summit Qatar 2025, without divulging further details.Highlighting the many areas that the national carrier is trying to improve when it comes to technology and digitalisation of the passenger journey; he said it will be something different and it will change, it will create a new benchmark for the industry.Asked by when the customers can expect; al-Meer said "it will be with the new aircraft, may be end of 2026 or beginning of 2027."The national airline has developed a roadmap for several major new developments to help raise the bar in the global aviation landscape.Asserting that it is not talking about two or three or five areas of working on the passenger experience; he said "we are talking about multiple projects on multiple areas, on multiple platforms."Qatar Airways is implementing multiple projects with regards to AI or artificial intelligence, when it comes to catering, duty-free and booking online."We are trying to use AI, to utilise AI, to give a better experience for our passengers," he said, adding with AI, it can gauge and study sector-by-sector and season-by-season regarding the meal on board.Citing London Heathrow flight; he said during summer, majority of the passengers are from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and they order a specific type of meal."AI will help us to provide the expected service that our passengers require. Whether it is summer vacation, New Year or Chinese New Year, AI will make sure that we are not running out of the preferred meal on board," al-Meer said.This would not only give a better customer experience but also reduce the number of wasted meals on board, thus saving cost for the airline, he said, adding it is also part of its sustainability focus.Shedding light on one of his top priorities, Qatar Airways 2.0, which is about innovation, connectivity and people; he said "we need to deliver multiple projects to enhance the experience of our passengers on multiple areas and do it in a very short time."

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Tuesday launched PSG Labs, a pioneering global initiative designed to accelerate cutting-edge technology in sports, fan experience, and performance.The launch in Doha marks the first step in the club’s global innovation expansion. The regional lab will serve as a gateway to emerging technology in the Middle East, allowing PSG to partner with top local and international startups, explore new advancements in sports tech and digital engagement and develop solutions that can be scaled globally.PSG Labs will serve as the club’s dedicated innovation engine, identifying and supporting high potential startups, entrepreneurs, and tech partners to create transformative solutions that will redefine the industry.As part of its commitment to driving innovation, PSG is expanding its global footprint with the launch of its first international PSG Lab in Doha, reinforcing its role as a leader in sports technology and fostering new collaborations in one of the world’s fastest-growing tech ecosystems and a strategic gateway to cutting-edge research and technology in the Middle East."PSG has always been at the forefront of innovation — both on and off the pitch," said Nasser al-Khelaïfi, its president.Highlighting that the PSG Labs is a natural extension of its ambition to shape the future of sports; he said by collaborating with the brightest innovators from around the world, it can accelerate game-changing ideas and further solidify its position as a global leader in innovation."With our first international PSG Lab in Doha, our goal is to drive innovation on a global scale and set new benchmarks for the entire sports industry," he added.PSG Labs will work closely with select partners in key technology ecosystems to accelerate the development of breakthrough innovations across focus areas such as fan experience, stadium and training ground, health and performance.“This is a major step in PSG’s innovation journey”, Jerry Newman, chief digital and innovation officer of PSG, said, adding by launching this innovation lab in Doha, PSG is demonstrating the impact that visionary leadership and global collaboration can have in shaping the future of sports.Founded in 1970, PSG is France's most successful sports club and a leading force on the European stage. Under Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) ownership since 2011, PSG has grown into a multi-sport institution, excelling in men’s and women’s football, handball, judo, and Esports.

Backed by Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Utopia Capital Management, a pioneer in emerging and frontier market investments, on Monday launched A-typical Ventures, a new driving force for early-stage venture innovation across the Middle East’s startup ecosystem.Unveiled at the Web Summit 2025, A-typical Ventures will launch a venture studio, and it is actively seeking the region’s entrepreneurs looking to scale innovations and drive economic diversification across sectors such as fintech, healthtech, e-Commerce, logistics and mobility, and climatetech.The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)-domiciled A-typical Ventures will enable Pre-seed, Seed and Pre-series A founders across the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council), Levant, Pakistan and Turkiye to refine their business models, optimise their go-to-market strategies, and unlock powerful growth opportunities.The QDB will be supporting A-typical Ventures through the creation of a venture studio, providing hands-on strategic and operational support to startups within the latter's ecosystem.The QIA’s investment marks one of the first deployments of capital from its 'Fund of Funds' programme, which aims to develop a strong start-up and venture capital ecosystem in Qatar and attract leading venture capital funds and entrepreneurs to the region."A-typical Ventures represents a next-generation approach to early-stage venture investing and building. This is an incredibly exciting time for the region, and we are eager to contribute to the growth of a thriving, innovation-driven venture economy," said Alina Truhina, managing partner of Southeast Asia and the Middle East at Utopia.Fatma Ali al-Khater, who is joining A-typical Ventures as a partner said the Middle East is at a "pivotal" moment in building a thriving startup ecosystem.Finding the unique opportunity to shape startup ecosystem's future, she said "with my deep-rooted experience in the region’s economic and investment landscape, I am committed to supporting A-typical Ventures to lay the foundations for a robust ecosystem that enables startups to scale faster, build stronger and make a lasting impact on the regional economy.”“Qatar is once again proving itself as an unparalleled hub for startups and innovation,” said Mohammed al-Emadi, QDB executive director of Investment and Incubation.Asserting that QDB is co-building the next generation of game-changing ventures; he said its collaboration with Utopia and the Qatari partners marks a bold step toward reshaping the startup landscape.By merging strategic investment with hands-on venture-building expertise, QDB aims to empower high-potential startups in Qatar and across the Middle East, helping them scale faster, break into new markets, and drive real economic impact."This is yet another leap to position Qatar and the region as a global powerhouse for disruptive innovation and high-growth ventures," he said.As Qatar’s leading enabler of entrepreneurship and private sector development, QDB brings a wealth of expertise and experience to this venture, leveraging its deep understanding of fostering a dynamic, innovation-driven startup ecosystem.

Invest Qatar and Startup Portugal have sealed a partnership to foster collaboration and create new opportunities within the startup ecosystems of both countries.This partnership aims to enhance cross-border opportunities, knowledge exchange and business growth for startups in Qatar and Portugal.The agreement was signed by Sheikh Ali Alwaleed al-Thani, chief executive officer of Invest Qatar and António Dias Martins, executive director of Startup Portugal, during Web Summit Qatar 2025.As part of the agreement, both entities will facilitate mutual referrals of startup companies interested in expanding into each other’s markets, offering tailored support for startups establishing a presence in the respective markets.The collaboration is designed to streamline the process for startups seeking international expansion, enabling them to pursue an efficient business journey within their respective regions.Invest Qatar and Startup Portugal will join efforts to provide comprehensive guidance on business setup, regulatory frameworks and operational logistics, empowering startups to scale globally."By facilitating opportunities for Portuguese startups to establish in Qatar and fostering new prospects for co-operation, we are unlocking potential that will bring mutual benefits. We look forward to working together to further strengthen the economic ties between our two nations," said Sheikh Ali.Martins said this partnership with Invest Qatar marks a significant step towards strengthening the ties between the entrepreneurial ecosystems."By fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and market access, we are creating new opportunities for Portuguese and Qatari startups to scale and thrive internationally. We are excited to work alongside Invest Qatar to support startups in their expansion journeys, enabling innovation and business growth across both regions,” he said.Over the years, Portugal has made significant investments in Qatar across key sectors like renewable energy, food and beverages and real estate, contributing to economic growth, sustainability and stronger bilateral ties.The partnership between Invest Qatar and Startup Portugal further reinforces these ties by fostering business development, innovation and new opportunities for entrepreneurs in both countries.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) on Sunday opened the week weak with its key index losing more than 13 points on selling pressure especially in the insurance, consumer goods, realty and transport counters.The domestic institutions’ weakened buying was visible as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.12% to 10,641.09 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,661 points. The market has yielded 0.66% returns year-to-date.The local retail investors continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose capitalisation was seem melting QR1.09bn or 0.16% to QR622.82bn on the back of small and microcap segments.The foreign individuals were also seen net sellers but with lesser vigour in the main market, which saw as many as 0.01mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.03mn changed hands across five deals.The foreign institutions were seen bullish in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the main barometer of of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf institutions’ bearish grip rather slackened in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.12% and the All Share Index by 0.13%, while the All Islamic Index fell 0.1% in the main market.The insurance sector index declined 1.21%, consumer goods and services (0.48%), realty (0.35%), transport (0.25%) and banks and financial services (0.08%); while telecom gained 0.14% and industrials 0.03%.As much as 50% of the traded constituents in the main bourse were in the red with major losers being Ezdan, Aamal Company, Qatar Insurance, Inma Holding, Qatar Oman Investment, Lesha Bank, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water and Nakilat. In the venture market, Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Estithmar Holding, Gulf International Services, Qatar Industrial Manufacturing, Doha Bank, Mekdam Holding, Mannai Corporation, Qamco and Gulf Warehousing were among the movers in the main bourse.The domestic institutions’ net buying decreased drastically to QR17.85mn compared to QR48.3mn on February 20.However, the foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR1mn against net sellers of QR6.55mn the previous trading day.The local retail investors’ net selling shrank significantly to QR7.4mn compared to QR25.62mn last Thursday.The foreign individual investors’ net selling declined noticeably to QR0.93mn against QR3.27mn on February 20.The Gulf institutions’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR6.84mn compared to QR6.94mn the previous trading day.The Arab individual investors’ net selling decreased perceptibly to QR2.55mn against QR4.24mn last Thursday.The Gulf individuals’ net profit booking was down marginally to QR1.13mn compared to QR1.93mn on February 20.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.25mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market rose 12% to 143.78mn shares, while value fell 11% to QR330.56mn and deals by 21% to 11,217.The venture market saw more than 225-fold jump in trade volumes to 4.49mn equities and more than 217-fold in value to QR13.01mn on more than quadrupled transactions to 33.

Discounting apprehensions over the US tariff policy and the cautious approach of the Federal Reserve on interest rates, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) saw its key index gain as much as 35 points and capitalisation add QR3.54bn this week. The domestic funds were seen increasingly into net buying as the 20-stock Qatar Index gained 0.33% this week which saw Al Mahhar Holding announce its shifting to the main market from February 24. The Arab retail investors turned bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main bourse this week which saw the Qatar Insurance Group make strategic investments in three insurtecs. The Gulf institutions’ substantially weakened net profit booking had its influence in the main market this week which saw Ooredoo and Iron Mountain enter into partnership to accelerate data centre across the Middle East and North Africa. The banks, transport and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main bourse this week which saw the QSE board being reconstituted by the Qatar Investment Authority. The Arab institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse this week which however saw a total of 0.06mn Masraf Al Rayan-sponsored exchange-traded fund QATR worth QR0.14mn trade across 26 deals. The foreign funds were seen net profit takers in the main market this week which saw as many as 0.01mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.07mn change hands across nine transactions. The Islamic index was seen declining vis-à-vis gains in the other indices of the main market this week which saw the realty and industrials together constitute more than 51% of the total trade volumes. Market capitalisation added 0.57% to QR623.84bn on the back of midcap segments this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. Trade volumes and turnover were on the increase in both the main bourse and junior market this week which saw no trading of treasury bills. The Total Return Index rose 0.51% and the All Share Index by 0.54%, while the All Islamic Index was down 0.08% this week. The banks and financial services sector index gained 0.95%, transport (0.44%) and industrials (0.39%); while telecom declined 0.54%, real estate (0.33%), insurance (0.29%) and consumer goods and services (0.24%) this week. Major gainers in the main market included Estithmar Holding, Mannai Corporation, Salam International Investment, Ahlibank Qatar, Al Khaleej Takaful, QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, Lesha Bank, Al Faleh Educational Holding and Ezdan this week. Nevertheless, more than 65% of the traded constituents were in the red with major shakers being Qatar National Cement, Beema, Meeza, Inma Holding, Zad Holding, Dlala, Woqod and United Development Company this week. The domestic institutions’ net buying increased perceptibly to QR142.89mn compared to QR138.49mn the week ended February 13. The Arab individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.9mn against net sellers of QR4.82mn the previous week. The Gulf institutions’ net selling decreased drastically to QR33.3mn compared to QR112.23mn a week ago. However, the foreign funds’ net selling strengthened significantly to QR59.73mn against QR15.02mn the week ended February 13. The Qatari individuals’ net profit booking expanded substantially to QR34.15mn compared to QR4.37mn the previous week. The Gulf individual investors’ net selling increased marginally to QR10.07mn against QR9.45mn a week ago. The foreign retail investors were net sellers to the tune of QR7.07mn compared with net buyers of QR6.58mn the week ended February 13. The Arab institutions’ net buying eased marginally to QR0.55mn against QR0.79mn the previous week. The main market witnessed a 62% surge in trade volumes to 782.89mn shares, 33% in value to QR1.97bn and 36% in deals to 68,906 this week. In the venture market, trade volumes soared 26% to 6.19mn equities, value by 22% to QR17.15mn and transactions by 73% to 235.

The domestic institutions’ buying support on Thursday lifted the Qatar Stock Exchange by more than eight points, apparently discounting apprehensions over the US tariffs policy.The telecom, transport and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.08% to 10,654.4 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,597 points.The Arab institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation was up QR0.08bn or 0.01% to QR623.84bn on the back of microcap segments.The foreign retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main market, which saw as many as 0.01mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn changed hands across eight deals.However, the Qatari individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.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 Gulf institutions turned bearish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 0.25% and the All Share Index by 0.2%, while the All Islamic Index fell 0.13% in the main market.The telecom sector index rose 0.57%, transport (0.5%), banks and financial services (0.3%) and industrials (0.03%); while real estate fell 0.39%, insurance (0.34%) and consumer goods and services (0.07%).Major gainers in the main bourse included Lesha Bank, Salam International Investment, Nakilat, Ooredoo, Ahlibank Qatar and Industries Qatar.Nevertheless, about 59% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Woqod, Inma Holding, Dukhan Bank, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Dlala, Medicare Group, Aamal Company and Ezdan.In the venture market, Al Mahhar Holding saw its shares depreciate in value.The domestic institutions’ net buying increased drastically to QR48.3mn compared to QR10.17mn on February 19.The Arab institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.25mn against net major net exposure the previous day.The foreign retail investors’ net selling declined noticeably to QR3.27mn compared to QR8.17mn on Wednesday.The Gulf individuals’ net profit booking shrank perceptibly to QR1.93mn against QR5.54mn on February 19.However, the local retail investors’ net selling expanded significantly to QR25.62mn compared to QR5.3mn the previous day.The Gulf institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR6.94mn against net buyers of QR13.24mn on Wednesday.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking strengthened markedly to QR6.55mn compared to QR1.22mn on February 19.The Arab individual investors’ net selling increased marginally to QR4.24mn against QR3.17mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market fell 24% to 128.16mn shares, value by 17% to QR371.82mn and deals by 10% to 14,123.The venture market saw a 67% plunge in trade volumes to 0.02mn equities, 63% in value to QR0.06mn and 56% in transactions to 8.

Gearing up for the Web Summit, the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has waived registration and annual fees for the first four years, along with a tax exemption, for those entities that register with QFC during the Summit."By offering attractive incentives and streamlined services, the QFC continues to position Qatar as a premier destination for global companies seeking to expand in the region," it said in a communique.As a key player in Qatar’s economic diversification, the QFC seeks to engage with global industry leaders, startups, and investors at the summit and showcase its platform not only as a conducive environment for establishing a business but also as a hub for technological advancement.Building on its success at the first Web Summit Qatar in 2024, where QFC registered over 300 firms in just four days, the QFC will once again offer "exceptional" incentives to companies looking to establish or expand their business ventures in Qatar."Companies that choose to register with the QFC during the Web Summit will benefit from waived registration and annual fees for the first four years, along with a tax exemption," it said.In addition, QFC is introducing instant banking services this year, in collaboration with QNB and Dukhan Bank, enabling potential clients to open corporate accounts seamlessly. This initiative further simplifies the business set-up process, resulting in a faster and more efficient entry into the Qatari market.The QFC’s participation in the Web Summit reinforces its commitment to supporting business growth and technological innovation in Qatar.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) yesterday went through a rollercoaster ride for most part of the session before winding up eight points higher.The real estate, industrials, banking and telecom counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.08% to 10,646.13 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,618 points.The Gulf institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.82bn or 0.29% to QR623.76bn on the back of small and midcap segments.The local retail investors’ weakened net selling had its influence in the main market, which saw as many as 1,624 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.01mn changed hands across three deals.The foreign funds’ lower net profit booking also had its say in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen treading a flat path vis-à-vis gains in the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The domestic institutions continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index was up 0.08% and the All Share Index by 0.16%, while the All Islamic Index was unchanged in the main market.The realty sector index gained 0.55%, industrials (0.28%), banks and financial services (0.27%), telecom (0.13%), insurance (0.09%) and consumer goods and services (0.05%); while transport declined 0.92%.Major gainers in the main bourse included Mannai Corporation, Estithmar Holding, Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, Al Khaleej Takaful, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Industries Qatar and Qamco. In the venture market, both Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar National Cement, Widam Food, Medicare Group, Nakilat and Dukhan Bank were among the shakers in the main market.The Gulf institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR13.24mn compared with net sellers of QR33.67mn on February 18.The Qatari individual investors’ net selling declined significantly to QR5.3mn against QR18.51mn the previous day.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking decreased perceptibly to QR1.22mn compared to QR3.81mn on Tuesday.However, the foreign retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR8.17mn against net buyers of QR2.55mn on February 18.The Gulf individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR5.54mn compared with net buyers of QR1.55mn the previous day.The Arab retail investors’ net profit booking strengthened noticeably to QR3.17mn against QR0.7mn on Tuesday.The domestic institutions’ net buying weakened drastically to QR10.17mn compared to QR52.29mn on February 18.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the extent of QR0.3mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market rose 4% to 168.86mn shares, while value shrank 5% to QR449.14mn and deals by 6% to 15,714.The venture market saw an 96% plunge in trade volumes to 0.06mn equities, 96% in value to QR0.16mn and 89% in transactions to 18.

The domestic funds’ continued buying interests on Tuesday lifted the sentiments in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) for the second straight session and its key index gained as much as 28 points.The transport and banking counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,638.1 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,555 points.The Gulf retail investors were seen bullish in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR0.87bn or 0.14% to QR621.94bn on the back of small and microcap segments.The foreign institutions’ weakened net selling had its influence on the main market, which saw as many as 2,002 exchange traded funds (sponsored by Masraf Al Rayan) valued at QR0.01mn changed hands across four deals.The Arab individuals’ lower net profit booking also had its say in the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the Gulf funds were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index was up 0.26%, the All Share Index by 0.23% and the All Islamic Index by 0.15% in the main market.The transport sector index gained 0.75% and banks and financial services 0.43%; while real estate declined 0.57%, consumer goods and services (0.26%), insurance (0.19%) and telecom (0.17%).Major gainers in the main bourse included Estithmar Holding, Milaha, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Dukhan Bank and Doha Insurance.In the venture market, Al Mahhar Holding and Techno Q saw their shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, about 51% of the traded constituents in the main market were on the red with major shakers being Qatar National Cement, Beema, Qatar Cinema and Film Distribution, Zad Holding, Ezdan, Alijarah Holding, Gulf International Services, Mazaya Qatar, United Development Company and Vodafone Qatar.The domestic institutions’ net buying increased perceptibly to QR52.29mn compared to QR45.6mn on February 17.The Gulf retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.55mn against net sellers of QR1.47mn the previous day.The Arab institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR0.3mn against no major net exposure on Monday.The foreign institutions’ net selling decreased substantially to QR3.81mn compared to QR48.59mn on February 17.The Arab individual investors’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR0.7mn compared to QR1.09mn the previous day.However, the Gulf institutions’ net selling strengthened drastically to QR33.67mn against QR6.69mn on Monday.The Qatari individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR18.51mn compared with net buyers of QR8.84mn on February 17.The foreign retail investors’ net buying declined marginally to QR2.55mn against QR3.41mn the previous day.Trade volumes in the main market shrank 12% to 163.05mn shares, while value shot up 25% to QR470.8mn and deals by 25% to 16,653.In the venture market, trade volumes jumped more than six-fold to 1.6mn equities and value more than tripled to QR3.87mn on more than six-fold growth in transactions to 164.

Financial hubs like Qatar must remain agile and proactive amidst an evolving global legal and regulatory landscapes, according to a top official of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC).This was highlighted by Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive officer, QFC, at an asset management workshop in collaboration with the international law firm K&L Gates.The event convened industry experts, financial professionals, and legal specialists to explore the complexities and opportunities arising from various market forces, providing attendees with valuable insights, practical updates, and forecasts to help them navigate the rapidly changing asset management sector.The workshop featured engaging discourse through panel discussions and fireside chats, covering key topics such as local and global asset management trends, regional market integration, evolving regulatory frameworks and establishing fund with the QFC."Facilitating these discussions reflects the QFC’s commitment to advancing Qatar’s financial ecosystem and reinforcing the country’s position as a hub for innovation, regulatory excellence, and sustainable investment strategies,” al-Jaida said, highlighting the critical role of regulatory foresight and strategic collaboration in shaping the future of asset management.The workshop discussed in detail the process of establishing a fund and regulated fund manager in the QFC, explaining which funds and strategies are permitted.A panel on global legal and regulatory trends, featuring experts from the QFC and K&L Gates, shed light on the impact of developments, such as the US' new administration, recent advancements in the EU, and emerging regional regulatory initiatives, including Qatar’s regulations on digital assets and tokenisation, on the domestic business landscape.The state of the asset management industry in the GCC or Gulf Co-operation Council was also explored, highlighting the benefits the GCC region could get from following a regional fund market like the ones that were adopted internationally."By sharing practical insights on fund establishment and regulatory trends, we aimed to support Qatar’s vision of becoming a global financial hub and foster meaningful conversations that drive growth," said Amjad Hussain, senior partner at K&L Gates.