Author

Preparations are in full swing to welcome Qatar's 2025/26 cruise season, which has put the country on a high pedestal in the international tourism market. "A co-ordination meeting was held as part of the preparations for 2025/26 cruise season, bringing together stakeholders, agents, and tour operators to discuss operational plans and co-ordination efforts to ensure a successful season and an exceptional visitor experience," Mwani Qatar said in its social media handle X. Qatar's 2024/25 cruise season had welcomed more than 396,000 visitors aboard 87 cruise ships, marking a 5% jump in visitors and a 19% rise in vessel calls against the previous season. Doha Port’s cruise terminal is strategically located minutes away from key attractions such as the National Museum of Qatar and Souq Waqif, optimising the visitor experience by allowing cruise passengers to make the most of their time in the city. Qatar Tourism plans to strengthen its collaborations with more international cruise lines, which is vital for driving further growth in Qatar’s the tourism sector and contributing to Qatar’s economic diversification efforts. The 2023/24 cruise season had seen 73 cruise ships and more than 347,000 visitors, representing a significant milestone in Qatar’s cruise market. This marks an increase from its predecessor, the 2022/23 season which saw 54 cruise ships and 253, 191 passengers. "Doha has become a prominent cruise destination with varied tourism experiences offered to visitors. From its debut in October 2023 to its grand finale in April 2024, this cruise season has exceeded all expectations breaking the records of visitors and cruise ships from previous seasons. The Grand Cruise Terminal symbolising Qatar's commitment to excellence” Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism had said. Qatar is gaining popularity as a world-class cruise destination in the region as it showcased exceptional tourism capabilities, especially after hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In this regard, efforts are currently underway to attract more cruise lines and travellers in the upcoming seasons. Many international cruise lines had their maiden calls to Doha Port, depicting Qatar’s increasing allure on the global stage in terms of cruise tourism. Travellers were from across the world including Germany, Italy, Russia, Kazakhstan, the US, the UK, China, Spain, France, and Uzbekistan, as well as the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) countries. International world-class ships including MSC Virtuosa, Seabourn Encore, AIDAprima, Artania, Mein Schiff 2, Azamara Journey, MS Riviera, MS Hamburg, and Norwegian Dawn have all previously docked in Doha. Mwani Qatar is committed to enhancing the capabilities of Doha Port in line with the Ministry of Transport's strategic plan, according to its top officials.

The Nairobi International Financial Centre (NIFC) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority as part of efforts to enhance cross-border investment, innovation and financial co-operation.The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the Second World Summit for Social Development, currently underway here in Qatar. It was signed by Daniel Mainda, chief executive officer of NIFC Authority, and Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive officer of QFCA.Through this agreement, the NIFC and QFC reaffirm their commitment to global best practices and to fostering sustainable, inclusive growth across Africa and the Middle East.This renewed collaboration aims to enhance cross-border investment, innovation and financial co-operation through the respective international financial centres.This partnership builds on a decade-long relationship that began when the Ministry of Finance of Qatar through Kenya’s National Treasury, provided technical support in establishing the NIFC, making Qatar a key partner present at the very inception of the NIFC’s story.The NIFC is a transformative project designed by the Kenyan government to position Nairobi as a premier financial hub in Africa. It is a key initiative under the economic pillar of Kenya’s Vision 2030 project.The NIFC aims to attract global investment by providing an efficient, conducive environment for financial services and innovation. With a focus on modern infrastructure, regulatory transparency, and strategic partnerships, the NIFC will foster economic growth and facilitate capital flow across the region through its business-friendly environment.

Reflecting the global markets' concerns on valuation, especially of tech companies, the Qatar Stock Exchange today closed in the negative with its key index losing about 21 points, even as it managed to stay above 11,000 levels.The transport and industrials counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.19% to 11,006.6 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,959 points.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 4.12%.The foreign individuals turned bearish in the main bourse, whose capitalisation shed QR0.97bn or 0.15% to QR655.95bn, mainly on microcap segments.The Arab retail investors were seen net sellers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.16mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank) valued at QR0.38mn trade across 70 deals.The domestic institutions continued to be bearish but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover were down amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The local retail investors were seen increasingly bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.19%, the All Share Index by 0.12% and the All Islamic Index by 0.13% in the main market.The transport sector index shed 1.11%, industrials (0.28%), insurance (0.18%), real estate (0.05%) and banks and financial services (0.04%); while consumer goods and services gained 0.47% and telecom 0.34%.As many as 17 stocks gained, while 33 declined and two were unchanged.About 64% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market with major losers being QLM, Qamco, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Estithmar Holding, Nakilat, Mazaya Qatar and Milaha. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Meeza, Baladna, Dlala, Medicare Group and Ooredoo were among the movers in the main market.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR14.84mn compared with net buyers of QR6.44mn the previous day.The foreign individuals were net profit takers to the extent of QR10.25mn against net buyers of QR2.73mn on Tuesday.The Arab retail investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR4.72mn compared with net buyers of QR2.44mn on November 4.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened marginally to QR17.96mn against QR18.12mn the previous day.aHowever, the local individual investors’ net buying expanded perceptibly to QR16.8mn compared to QR15.96mn on Tuesday.The Gulf individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.36mn against net profit takers of QR0.58mn on November 4.The domestic institutions’ net selling weakened substantially to QR6.31mn compared to QR45.1mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure.The main market saw 10% jump in trade volumes to 115.48mn shares but on less than 1% contraction in value to QR316.54mn and 42% in deals to 18,480.In the venture market, a total of 0.16mn equities valued at QR0.37mn changed hands across 20 transactions.(Ends)

Qatar Exports has concluded its 2025 trade mission to Oman, with participation from more than 45 Qatari firms, with the value of potential deals exceeding QR223mn.The mission represented a new milestone in advancing trade and investment cooperation between Qatar and Oman.It aligns with the joint statement issued earlier this year, which reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to supporting the private sector, intensifying efforts to increase trade exchange, and enhancing economic integration between the two countries."The strong coordination and joint efforts throughout this mission reflect the depth of economic relations between Qatar and Oman, and the real potential both countries share for building meaningful regional and international partnerships grounded in mutual interests," said Khalid Abdulla al-Mana, Qstar Development Bank (QDB) Vice President of Enterprise Development and Executive Director of Qatar Exports.Through Qatar Exports, QDB is committed to promoting Qatari products in Gulf and global markets, he said, adding "we will continue to support national exporters by building their capabilities and opening doors to new markets, helping them compete globally as part of our broader strategy to grow Qatar’s export ecosystem.”The mission brought together senior Qatari and Omani officials and featured in-depth bilateral discussions between the two sides, alongside a series of meetings and an exhibition for Qatari companies that highlighted the diversity and quality of Qatari products.In total, the program included 350 bilateral meetings, the mission’s activities attracted more than 450 visitors, and the value of potential deals exceeded QR223mn.

Hamad Port – whose multi-use terminal is designed to serve the supply chains for the RORO, grains and livestock – has reported increased bulk cargoes and vehicles (RORO) handling this October. The port handled as much as 158,500 freight tonnes of bulk, which is loaded directly into ship's holds without individual units, in October 2025, registering 46.72% and 252.05% surge month-on-month and year-on-year respectively. It handled a total of 27,611 freight tonnes of breakbulk, which is non-containerised cargo loaded as individual units, this October, which however fell 77.13% and 69.68% on monthly and annualised basis respectively. Hamad Port, whose strategic geographical location offers opportunities to create cargo movement towards the upper Gulf, supporting countries such as Kuwait and Iraq and south towards Oman, saw as many as 126 vessels call (excluding military) in the review period, registering 2.33% and 15.46% decline month-on-month and year-on-year respectively. In the case of RORO, Hamad Port handled as many as 9,497 units this October, which reported 2.96% increase on a monthly basis, even as it plummeted 41.81% on an annualised basis. 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. RORO ships – which are designed to transport vehicles like cars, trucks, and motorcycles -- feature ramps that allow vehicles to drive directly on and off, eliminating the need for cranes and making it an efficient way to move cargo across the seas. Hamad Port saw 171,555 freight tonnes in RORO in October 2025, which declined 3.31% and 36.1% month-on-month and year-on-year respectively. Hamad Port, which is the largest eco-friendly project in the region and internationally recognised as one of the largest green ports in the world, saw 119,877 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) this October. The container terminals have been designed to address the increasing trade volume, enhance ease of doing business and support economic diversification, which is one of the most vital goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. With a stacking area of 176,000 sqm, the container terminal 2 or CT2 is equipped with the latest advanced technology, including remote-operated ship-to-shore cranes, hybrid rubber-tyred gantries, and electric tractors. The container and cargo trends through the ports reflect the positive outlook for the country's non-oil private sector. In line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, Mwani Qatar continues to implement its ambitious strategy to enhance the maritime sector's contribution to diversifying the national economy and strengthening the county's position as a vibrant regional trade hub. (Ends)

Qatar Open Innovation (QOI) programme, an external funding opportunity funded by QRDI Council (Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council) has seen more than 80 pilots awarded and underway, making the country a “living lab for world-class innovation”, according to a top official of QRDI Council. Through QOI programme, “over 90 open innovation calls have been issued, in collaboration with 50 major enterprise and government partners, resulting in more than 80 pilots awarded and underway,” Nejoud al-Jehani, Executive Director of Strategy and Programmes, QRDI Council, told the second edition of Qatar Investment and Innovation conference. “This model accelerates startup growth while turning Qatar’s economy into a living lab for world-class innovation, where ideas are not only funded, but tested, commercialised and scaled in real market environments,” she said. To build a strong innovation economy, there is need for a full range of financing tools as grants, strategic risk capital, co-investment models, venture partnerships and innovation-driven procurement. “But financing the future is not just about increasing capital. It’s about deploying it more wisely and with purpose, targeting mission-driven mega-projects, structuring public-private vehicles that de-risk innovation, building policy frameworks that attract global founders and global investment,” she added. The region has developed world-class infrastructure, nurtured exceptional talent and built digital foundations rivalling the most advanced economies, but next chapter will be one that is written through strategic capital, she said. “Capital that accelerates entrepreneurship, fuels research and technology and unlocks new sources of value and resilience,” she added. Highlighting that innovation was once viewed mainly as a policy goal, she said: “Today, it has become an investment priority, rooted in long-term economic sustainability, national competitiveness and the belief that the future belongs to nations that invest in ideas, not only in assets.” Qatar has been embedding innovation financing at the heart of its national transformation, according to her. Under the third national development strategy, the country is committed to expanding national expenditure on research development and innovation and to significantly increasing private sector R&D participation, she said.

Qatar has developed frameworks to enhance the digital economy’s contribution to non-hydrocarbon GDP (gross domestic product) by more than QR40bn by 2030, according to a senior official of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). “Guided by Qatar National Vision 2030, Qatar is advancing from a resource-based model to a knowledge-driven economy, powered by talent, entrepreneurship and technology,” Faraj Abdulla, Director of Digital Economy within Digital Affairs Department, MCIT, told the second edition of Qatar Investment and Innovation conference. The frameworks also seek to create 26,000 ICT (information, communication and technology) jobs and raise the R&D (research and development) expenditure to 1.5% of the GDP by 2030, he said. Investments in Qatar’s ecosystem grew by more than 130% in 2024, reflecting a strong investor confidence and the growing maturity of our innovation landscape, according to him. Highlighting that in the same year, Qatar recorded $2.7bn in foreign direct investment, Abdalla said: “Together, these achievements reflect Qatar’s strategic positioning as a gateway for investment in the region.” Making clear the priorities of MCIT in developing a strong innovation ecosystem, investing in advanced digital infrastructure and building human capital for the future; Abdulla said through initiatives and programmes like the Digital Incubation Centre, Tesmo Accelerator, ScaleNow and the National Innovation Labs, Qatar provides entrepreneurs and businesses with a pipeline of support. “Our investments in 5G cloud computing and AI (artificial intelligence) sandboxes ensure innovators have the tools they need to succeed,” he said. Stressing that Qatar is establishing a comprehensive regulatory environment for AI that balances innovation with responsibility; he said through MCIT’s strategic partnership with ScaleAI, “we are shaping policies and frameworks that promote innovation while ensuring ethical and responsible use of AI technologies”. Qatar is making strategic investments to enable AI advancement across the region, he said, adding through partnerships with global leaders such as Microsoft and Google Cloud, the country is driving innovation and integration across multiple sectors. “Beyond infrastructure, we are demonstrating AI’s transformative impact through real applications,” he said, referring to the Ministry of Municipality’s AI-powered building permit system, which now issues approvals within two hours instead of 30 days. “As we progress toward 2030, Qatar will continue to invest in technology that improves lives, implement policies that attract talent and foster partnerships that create shared prosperity across the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council). Qatar is committed to being more than a national success story,” Abdalla said.

Qatar's commercial banks reported 6.2% year-on-year jump in total assets to QR2.15tn in September 2025, according to Qatar Central Bank data.Total domestic credit expanded by 5.5% year-on-year to QR1.36tn another end of September 2025, the central bank said in its social media handle X.Total domestic deposits were up 1.6% year-on-year to QR861.1bn in the review period.Broad money supply (M2) rose 1.6% year-on-year to QR749.2bn in September 2025.

The Qatar Financial Centre and Doha Bank have entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate fintech growth and innovation in the country.The QFC Authority (QFCA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Doha Bank, marking a major step towards strengthening Qatar’s financial services landscape through strategic collaborations in fintech development and digital innovation.The MoU outlines a collaborative framework in three strategic areas as driving growth in Qatar’s fintech and digital asset ecosystem through joint research, prototype development, and the introduction of innovative financial solutions.It also outlines supporting fintech companies through technical guidance, facilitating secure banking relationships, and streamlining account opening processes; and establishing a programme for regular engagement, including quarterly meetings, joint workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions, to explore new opportunities and ensure the continuous development of the ecosystem."This partnership with Doha Bank is a stride towards positioning Qatar as a leading hub for fintech and digital assets. Together, we will strengthen the foundations for innovation that enable fintech companies to grow with confidence and support the development of technological solutions that will define the future of financial services," said Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive officer, QFCA.Highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing innovation, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Fahad bin Faisal al- Thani, Group chief executive officer, Doha Bank, said, globally, the banking and financial industry is undergoing major transformations."This highlights the importance of collaboration at the institutional level to drive the development of innovative financial solutions in Qatar and keep pace with these ongoing changes. Our agreement today reflects our shared commitment to advancing financial technologies and innovation within an enabling, inclusive, and comprehensive ecosystem," he said.This collaboration signals a new chapter in financial innovation. As fintech and digital assets reshape global markets, the QFC and Doha Bank are laying the groundwork for creating solutions that will not only serve businesses today but also anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s economy.

Qatar's maritime sector witnessed higher cargo movements through Hamad, Doha and Al Ruwais ports this October on an annualised basis, according to the official data.The general and bulk cargo handled through the three ports amounted to 216,466 freight tonnes in October 2025, which soared 42.73% and 378.91% on yearly and monthly basis respectively, said the figures released by Mwani Qatar.Hamad Port -- a multi-use terminal is designed to serve the supply chains for the RORO, grains and livestock -- continues to expand its global footprint through a network of shipping lines linking it with over 100 ports worldwide. This ever-growing network offers importers, exporters, and shipping agents direct, reliable and efficient services, ensuring faster and cost-effective cargo movement.The general and bulk cargo movement through three ports amounted to a cumulative 1.56mn freight tonnes in the first 10 months of this year.The cargo and container trends through the ports reflect the positive outlook for the country's non-oil private sector, which has been growing faster, supported by robust macroeconomic fundamentals of the country.As many as 245 ships arrived in three ports, which reported 5.41% year-on-year decline, even as it rose 6.06% month-on-month in October 2025.Hamad Port’s strategic geographical location offers opportunities to create cargo movement towards the upper Gulf, supporting countries such as Kuwait and Iraq and south towards Oman.As many as 2,521 vessel calls were reported through the three ports in the first 10 months of this year.The container movement through three ports amounted to 119,003 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), which declined 9.58% and 4.6% on a yearly and monthly basis respectively in the review period.The three ports together handled as many as 1.23mn TEUs in January-September 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 9,566 RORO in October 2025, which registered 40.9% and 22.84% plunge year-on-year and month-on-month respectively. The three ports handled as many as 100,832 RORO in January-October 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 7,682 livestock heads this October, which plummeted 81.11% on an annualised basis but shot up 97.94% month-on-month. The ports together handled as many as 411,550 livestock heads during January-October 2025.The building materials traffic through the three ports stood at 11,362 tonnes in October 2025, which plunged 69.19% on a monthly basis. A cumulative 499,431 tonnes of building materials were handled during the first 10 months of 2025.In line with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, Mwani Qatar continues to implement its ambitious strategy to enhance the maritime sector's contribution to diversifying the national economy and strengthening the county's position as a vibrant regional trade hub.

The Qatar Stock Exchange today opened the week weak with its key index losing more than 26 points on selling pressure especially in the insurance, consumer goods, telecom, industrials and real estate sectors.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.24% to 10,930.3 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,896 points.The Gulf institutions’ substantially weakened net buying had its impact on the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 3.4%.The Arab individuals’ lower net buying had its effect on the main bourse, whose capitalisation shed QR1.96bn or 0.3% to QR652.78bn, mainly on small cap segments.The local retail investors continued to be bearish but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 6,369 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank) valued at QR0.01mn trade across 11 deals.The domestic institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf retail investors were seen bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index rose 0.24%, the All Share Index by 0.28% and the All Islamic Index by 0.48% in the main market.The insurance sector index tanked 1.02%, consumer goods and services (0.74%), telecom (0.69%), industrials (0.64%), real estate (0.47%) and banks and financial services (0.11%); while transport gained 0.55%.As many as only seven stocks gained, while 40 declined and six were unchanged.More than 75% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse with major losers being Mannai Corporation, Meeza, Baladna, Dlala, QLM, Inma Holding, Widam Food, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and Qatar Insurance. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Nakilat, QIIB and Doha Insurance were among the movers in the main bourse.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR15.76mn compared with net buyers of QR30.79mn last Thursday.The Gulf institutions’ net buying decreased drastically to QR4.78mn against QR50.17mn the previous trading day.The Arab retail investors’ net buying weakened perceptibly to QR0.95mn compared to QR1.77mn on October 30.However, the domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR17.8mn against net sellers of QR44.43mn last Thursday.The Gulf individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR0.25mn compared with net sellers of QR0.28mn the previous trading day.The local individual investors’ net selling decreased significantly to QR7.86mn against QR30.14mn on October 30.The foreign individuals’ net profit booking shrank considerably to QR0.17mn compared to QR7.86mn last Thursday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the sixth straight session.The main market saw a 6% jump in trade volumes to 120.03mn shares but on 23% contraction in value to QR280.75mn and 46% in deals to 13,442.In the venture market, a total of 0.07mn equities valued at QR0.17mn changed hands across 13 transactions.(Ends)

The Qatari German Medical Devices (QGMD) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dawa Holdi Egypt and Dawa USA, as part of its strategy to strengthen its regional and international presence.This partnership aims to introduce the company’s products to the Egyptian market to meet essential medical needs, localise their manufacturing in Egypt, and expand across the African continent through the marketing and distribution of medical products.The MoU also seeks to increase the volume of Qatari exports to European and American markets, the company said in its regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.QGMD affirms that this step comes as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its operational and financial performance, in a way that positively reflects on its shareholders and strengthens its position in the medical manufacturing sector at both the regional and global levels.

Scale Now, which enables Qatari founded technology companies to become global competitors, has secured deals valued at $12.9mn, positioning Qatar as a regional hub for digital innovation, according to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT).Of the $12.9mn in deals secured, as much as $7.2mn was in B2B (business-to-business) and $5.7mn in direct investments, said a MCIT presentation made recently after roping in four more partners – Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Invest Qatar, QDB (Qatar Development Bank) and Qatar Research Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council - for the programme."Scale Now is more than a programme; it is a coordinated national platform turning digital innovation into tangible economic impact," MCIT said.About $7.2mn in B2B (business to business) transactions; the presentation said it demonstrated strong market validation and confidence in Qatar’s scale-up ecosystem.The Cycle 1 had secured $5.7mn in direct investments through a mix of private funding, grants, and investor partnerships.The participating entities from Cycle 1 reported sustained growth, validating the effectiveness of the programme’s capability-building and market access model, it said, highlighting more than 50% average revenue growth and one successful international market expansion in Cycle 1.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.Scale Now contributes directly to Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030's national employment target by equipping founders and creating high-value digital roles across tech sectors, aiming more than 26,000 ICT (information, communication and technology) jobs by 2030."Through its collaborative model, Scale Now is enabling Qatari-founded technology companies to become global competitors, strengthening the nation’s economic resilience, export potential, and job creation capacity," it said.By providing tailored mentorship, strategic partnerships, investment readiness and facilitating access to pilot opportunities, the programme helps high-potential companies transform proven traction into sustainable growth. It strengthens Qatar’s digital economy, aligns with the Digital Agenda 2030 and positions the country as a global hub for innovation and expansion."We will refer high-potential companies from Startup Qatar to future Scale Now cohorts, support access to funding and grants, and help shape a connected, resilient ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive," Invest Qatar had said.Invest Qatar serves as the gateway for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, guiding them through each stage of their business journey — from exploration to expansion — by providing comprehensive insights, market knowledge and facilitating connections with key government and private sector stakeholders.

The US Federal Reserve rate cut and easing of the US-China trade tensions had their positive influence on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), where bullish sentiments prevailed for the second consecutive week. The Gulf institutions were seen increasingly net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled 0.73% higher this week which saw the market heavyweight Industries Qatar (IQ) report QR3.4bn net profit in the first nine months (9M) of 2025. The telecom and insurance counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main bourse this week which saw Nakilat report net profit of QR1.31bn in January-September 2025. The Gulf retail investor turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw Ooredoo Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR3.1bn. The overall sentiments was seen upbeat in the market that otherwise saw shakers outnumber movers this week, which saw Aamal Company approved the sale of IMO Qatar to Frijns Structural Steel Middle East for QR6.5mn. The domestic institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse this week which saw Qamco report net profit of QR534mn in 9M-2025. The local retail investors were also increasingly bearish in the main market this week which saw Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding report a net profit of QR520mn in January-September 2025. The foreign individuals turned net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.06mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.13mn trade across 23 deals. The foreign funds were seen net profit takers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.06mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QETF worth QR0.6mn trade across 54 transactions. The Islamic index was seen gaining faster than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. Market capitalisation added QR4.14bn or 0.64% to QR654.74n on the back of small and midcap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills. Trade turnover fell amidst higher volumes in the main market, while the junior bourse saw declines in turnover and volumes this week which saw the consumer goods, industrials and realty sectors together constitute more than three-fourth of the total trade volumes. The Total Return Index rose 0.73%, the All Share Index by 0.62% and the All Islamic Index by 0.81% this week which saw Meeza report net profit of QR42.4mn in January-September 2025. The telecom sector index surged 2.48%, insurance (2.32%), real estate (0.68%), industrials (0.52%), banks and financial services (0.48%) and consumer goods and services (0.44%), while transport was down 0.08% this week which saw Mekdam Holding Group’s 9M-2025 net profit at QR27.8mn. The market was skewed towards shakers with as many as 28 constituents reporting declines, while 22 gained and two were unchanged this week which saw Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance report net profit of QR93.08mn in 9M-2025. Major movers in the main market included QLM, Qatar German Medical Devices, Beema, Ooredoo, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Qatar Islamic Bank, Woqod, IQ, Qatar Insurance, Al Khaleej Takaful and Ezdan. In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate this week. Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Baladna, Qamco, Qatar Oman Investment, Mannai Corporation, Alijarah Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water, Aamal Company, Mazaya Qatar and Gulf Warehousing were among the shakers in the main market this week. The Gulf institutions’ net buying increased substantially to QR191.29mn compared to QR36.59mn the week ended October 23. The Gulf individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.61mn against net profit takers of QR6.35mn the previous week. However, the domestic institutions’ net selling strengthened significantly to QR102.18mn compared to QR5.12mn a week ago. The Qatari individuals’ net selling expanded noticeably to QR78.59mn against QR63.59mn the week ended October 23. The foreign retail investors were net profit takers to the extent of QR7.85mn compared with net buyers of QR5.17mn the previous week. The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR2.53mn against net buyers of QR32.94mn a week ago. The Arab individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR1.75mn compared with net buyers of QR0.33mn the week ended October 23. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.02mn the previous week. The main market saw 7% contraction in trade volumes to 551.21mn shares but on 14% jump in value to QR1.65bn and less than 1% in deals to 94,631 this week. In the venture market, trade volumes tanked 67% to 0.12mn equities, value by 68% to QR0.27mn and transactions by 65% to 45.

The Qatar Stock Exchange yesterday saw foreign funds turn bullish as its key barometer gained as much as 29 points, a day after the Qatar Central Bank reduced key rate, following the move by the US Federal Reserve. The telecom, insurance and transport counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.26% to 10,956.78 points. The market, which saw a rollercoaster ride throughout the session, had touched an intraday low of 10,925 points. The Arab individuals were seen bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved further to 3.65%. The Gulf funds continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.62bn or 0.25% to QR654.74bn, mainly on small cap segments. The domestic institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers in the main market, which saw as many as 230 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank) valued at QR530 trade across three deals. The local retail investors were also increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise. The Islamic index was seen outperforming the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills. The foreign retail investors were seen bearish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. The Total Return Index rose 0.26%, the All Share Index by 0.23% and the All Islamic Index by 0.32% in the main market. The telecom sector index shot up 2.68%, insurance (1.2%), transport (0.42%), real estate (0.27%) and banks and financial services (0.11%); while industrials declined 0.24% and consumer goods and services 0.09%. As many as 24 stocks gained, while 24 declined and four were unchanged. Major gainers in the main market included QLM, Qatar Islamic Insurance, Ooredoo, Al Khaleej Takaful, Qatar Insurance, Gulf International Services and Nakilat. Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Meeza, Inma Holding, Lesha Bank, Al Mahhar Holding, Industries Qatar and Qamco were among the shakers in the junior bourse. The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR30.79mn compared with net sellers of QR8.65mn the previous day. The Arab retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR1.77mn against net sellers of QR1.5mn on October 29. However, the domestic institutions’ net selling increased substantially to QR44.43mn compared to QR19.25mn on Wednesday. The local individual investors’ net selling expanded significantly to QR30.14mn against QR22.12mn the previous day. The foreign individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR7.86mn compared with net buyers of QR1.25mn on October 29. The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking increased marginally to QR0.28mn against QR0.06mn on Wednesday. The Gulf institutions’ net buying decreased marginally to QR50.17mn compared to QR50.33mn the previous day. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fifth straight session. The main market saw a 6% jump in trade volumes to 113.32mn shares, 22% surge in value to QR365.17mn and 27% in deals to 25,070. In the venture market, a total of 0.02mn equities valued at QR0.05mn changed hands across three transactions.

Global rating agency Moody's has assigned ‘(P)Aa2’ rating and "stable" outlook to Qatar's Global Sukuk Ventures’ issuance programme. The rating agency assigned a foreign-currency backed senior unsecured MTN (medium-term note) rating of ‘(P)Aa2’ to the trust certificate issuance programme of Global Sukuk Ventures, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) incorporated in Qatar and wholly owned by the government of Qatar. The trust certificates issued by the SPV will constitute direct, unconditional and unsubordinated obligations of the sovereign, which will rank pari passu with all current and future senior unsecured external debt of the Government of Qatar. The proceeds of the issuances are intended for general budget purposes. Proceeds from any green instrument issuances are intended to finance new or refinance existing projects eligible under the government's green financing framework. The rating mirrors the government of Qatar's Aa2 long-term issuer rating and stable outlook. "We note that our sukuk ratings do not express an opinion on the structures' compliance with Shariah Law," Moody's said. Qatar's Aa2 ratings are supported by its vast hydrocarbon reserves, exceptionally high per-capita income and the government's very strong balance sheet. These strengths provide significant shock-absorption capacity and mitigate the sovereign's high economic and fiscal exposure to declines in hydrocarbon demand and prices, longer-term risks related to global carbon transition, and risks arising from regional geopolitical tensions, the rating agency said. Highlighting that the stable outlook reflects a balance of risks at the current rating level; Moody's said a scenario where hydrocarbon demand and prices decline significantly and durably, "potentially as a result of a more rapid global carbon transition than we currently expect, would result in a material fiscal deterioration." On the other hand, potentially faster and more significant progress on economic and fiscal diversification poses an upside risk to the credit profile. "Longer-term risks related to carbon transition are also mitigated by Qatar's track record of policy effectiveness and access to ample financial buffers that the government can use to accelerate and sustain economic diversification," it said. Furthermore, demand for Qatar's hydrocarbon export mix, which is dominated by LNG (liquefied natural gas), is likely to peak considerably later than demand for other fossil fuels, allowing the sovereign more time to adjust, including by broadening its government revenue base. Near-term risks related to elevated regional geopolitical tensions are balanced by the government's very large stock of financial assets, which are available to buffer temporary declines in exports and government revenue even in a very low-probability scenario where maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted due to an escalating regional conflict, according to Moody's.

Ahead of the US Federal Reserve meeting, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today edged up marginally higher amidst buying interests in four of the seven sectors.The foreign institutions’ weakened net selling was visible as the 20-stock Qatar Index settled three points higher at 10,928.23 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,878 points.The insurance, banks and telecom counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 3.38%.The domestic funds’ lower net profit booking also had its influence on the main bourse, whose capitalisation was largely flat at QR653.12bn, mainly on microcap segments.The local retail investors continued to be net profit takers but with lesser vigour in the main market, which saw as many as 1,276 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR9,243 trade across three deals.The Gulf institutions continued to be bullish but with lesser intensity 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 foreign retail investors were seen net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index was up 0.03% and the All Share Index by 0.04%, while the All Islamic Index was down 0.01% in the main market.The insurance sector index rose 0.2%, banks and financial services (0.16%), telecom (0.08%) and consumer goods and services (0.03%); while transport declined 0.35%, real estate (0.17%) and industrials (0.14%).As many as 18 stocks gained, while 27 declined and seven were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Meeza, Beema, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar National Cement, Al Mahhar Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank and Lesha Bank.In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.Nevertheless, as much as 52% of the traded constituents were in the red with major shakers being Estithmar Holding, Gulf Warehousing, Mazaya Qatar, Aamal Company, Qatar Oman Investment, Vodafone Qatar and Nakilat.The foreign individual investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR1.25mn compared with net sellers of QR3.22mn on Tuesday.The foreign institutions’ net selling declined substantially to QR8.65mn against QR23.26mn the previous day.The local individual investors’ net selling shrank significantly to QR22.12mn compared to QR39.09mn on October 28.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking weakened markedly to QR19.25mn against QR26.87mn on Tuesday.The Arab retail investors’ net selling declined perceptibly to QR1.5mn compared to QR2.96mn the previous day.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking eased marginally to QR0.06mn against QR1.7mn on October 28.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying decreased drastically to QR50.33mn compared to QR97.09mn on Tuesday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth straight session.The main market saw an 18% contraction in trade volumes to 106.94mn shares, 38% surge in value to QR299.24mn and 3% in deals to 19,678.In the venture market, a total of 0.03mn equities valued at QR0.06mn changed hands across 13 transactions.

The outlook for Middle East and North Africa (Mena) IPOs (initial public offerings) remains "strong", with 19 companies and funds across various sectors intending to list on the region’s exchanges, according to Ernst and Young (EY). "With strong regulatory frameworks and a healthy pipeline leading into Q4 (fourth quarter) of 2025, the region is well-positioned for sustained, long-term growth which is likely to attract continued international participation," Brad Watson, EY-Parthenon Mena Leader, said. Saudi Arabia continues to lead with 13 entities, including Almasar Alshamil Education Company and Al Romansiah Company, having received approval from the Capital Market Authority (CMA), EY said in its latest report. In the UAE, ALEC Holdings was successfully listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) as of October 15, 2025. "In Q4-2025, we can look forward to a healthy pipeline, highlighting the region’s position as a hub for capital market activity," Gregory Hughes, EY-Parthenon Mena IPO Leader, said. With lower oil prices, he said, it continues to see economic diversification from non-oil revenues, and the sector focus for Saudi listings transitioned from healthcare and mobility in Q2-2025 to real estate, hospitality, construction and retail. Amid shifting market dynamics, performance in this past quarter reflects the increasing depth and maturity of Mena capital markets, supported by a steady pace of listings across multiple sectors and geographies, Watson said. "Companies are becoming increasingly strategic with market timing – carefully assessing investor sentiment and macroeconomic conditions before going public," he added. In the non-GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) countries, Diar Dzair from Algeria and Gharb Papier Et Carton from Morocco have announced their intention to list, pending regulatory approval. This trend is supported by sustained policy momentum, diversified market participation and a growing focus on the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects. These factors continue to position the region as a key destination for capital formation and investment. Highlighting that regulatory reforms in Mena are progressing as regional markets mature; it said in the UAE, updated governance rules now permit the combination of board chair and chief executive officer roles under defined conditions, while Saudi Arabia’s CMA initiated consultations on proposed amendments to market-making regulations and foreign ownership limits. "These steps are aimed at enhancing liquidity, transparency and access to capital," EY report said. According to the EY Mena IPO Eye Q3 (third quarter) 2025 report, the region continued to demonstrate healthy activity and investor interest, with 11 IPOs, raising $0.7bn in total proceeds. The number of listings increased by 120% compared with the same quarter last year, driven by mid-market activity.