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The inward FDI (foreign direct investment) has about three times the growth impact of domestic investment in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) economies, according to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) working paper.In a working paper 'Gulf Cooperation Council Diversification: The Role of Foreign Investments and Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWF)', the authors Yevgeniya Korniyenko and Weining Xin said their empirical analysis reaffirms the positive contribution of both inward and domestic investments to the GCC non-hydrocarbon GDP (gross domestic product) growth and economic diversification."Notably, inward foreign investment demonstrates a three times larger impact on non-hydrocarbon GDP growth compared to domestic investment, while outward GCC investment does not significantly affect domestic GDP growth," it said, adding, as much as 1% of GDP increase in inward investment is associated with more than 1% increase in the sectoral GDP over four years.On the other hand, the paper highlighted that domestic investment, led by SWFs, was found to have a statistically significant positive impact, with 1% of GDP increase in SWFs’ domestic investment associated with about 0.4% growth in non-hydrocarbon sectors’ GDP over four years.These findings suggest that the GCC policymakers should continue pursuing policies that attract foreign investment, including by further improving their business environment and strengthening institutions, while also encouraging domestic investment in partnerships with international private investors to accelerate diversification and promote growth, it said.The Gulf countries are actively diversifying their economies across output, export, and revenue dimensions, in line with their national development strategies and global decarbonisation objectives. Despite this momentum, challenges remain in achieving deeper diversification and in attracting FDI to non-hydrocarbon sectors with strong growth potential, according to the paper.The working paper assessed the role of cross-border and SWFs’ investments in fostering economic growth and diversification in the GCC. It said although the GCC countries attracted a higher share of foreign investment (as percent of GDP) since the pandemic, which positions them more centrally within the global FDI network, the overall foreign investment to the GCC remains low.Results show that the GCC countries continue to attract investments with the Western hemisphere and Europe accounting for about 60% of the total inward investment. At the same time, the share of intra-GCC investment as a proportion of total investment into the GCC region remains "stable" at above 25%, underscoring the region’s commitment to continued regional cooperation and integration.Since the pandemic, investment activity has increasingly shifted toward services, especially in transportation, logistics, ICT (information, communication and technology), and business services. The share of inward investment in services (excluding financial services) rose from an average of 30% during 2000–19 to around 70% in 2020–23."This trend is mirrored in outward and SWF-led investment. Within the GCC, SWFs allocate a significant portion of their investments to manufacturing and marketable services. While this sectoral shift is positive for diversification, it also raises concerns about concentration risks," the paper said.

Market EyeWeak energy prices, uncertainty on future Federal Reserve rate cuts and growing concerns on the US shutdown led to 95 points decline in index and more than QR6bn erosion in capitalisation in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which closed in the negative for the third consecutive week.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net sellers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.87% this week which saw the International Monetary Fund (IMF) project a 4% medium-term growth for Qatar, reflecting the North Field expansion.About 83% of the traded constituents were in the red this week which saw the IMF find Qatar's banks to be in the pink of their health with strong capitalisation, liquidity and profitability.The domestic institutions turned bearish in the main market this week which saw Aamal Company’s board approve selling 51% stake in ECCO Gulf to its foreign partner Majorel Group Luxembourg for about QR36.4mn.The foreign funds continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse this week which saw Techno Q win new government contracts valued at QR62mn.However, the local retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main market this week which saw Aamal Company decide to establish a new joint venture in Qatar, operating in the oil and energy services sector, with Aamal Readymix and Oman's Mohammed Al Barwani Oil Services as partners.The foreign individuals were increasingly bullish in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.67mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR1.66mn trade across 260 deals.The Gulf retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main market this week which saw 3,611 Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.04mn change hands across nine transactions.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw as many as 0.33mn of sovereign bonds valued at QR3.3bn trade across seven deals.Market capitalisation eroded QR6.16bn or 0.94% to QR650.59bn on the back of mid and small cap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease in the main market, while those were on the rise in the venture market this week which saw the consumer goods and realty sectors together constitute about 51% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index shed 0.87%, the All Share Index by 0.75% and the All Islamic Index by 1.07% this week which saw QNB Group, in cooperation with Ajlan and Bros Holding, receive license for a digital-first banking entity, ezbank, from the Saudi Central Bank.The realty index tanked 1.53%, consumer goods and services (1%), industrials (0.8%), banks and financial services (0.73%), transport (0.62%), telecom (0.58%) and insurance (0.01%) this week which saw Oxford Economics report that said Qatar's renewed commitment to the North Field gas expansion will provide a big medium-term boost to the country's economyThe market was skewed towards shakers with as many 43 constituents reporting declines, while only nine gained this week which saw Qatar report a robust year-on-year double-digit jump in ships arrival through Hamad, Doha and Al Ruwais ports in the first nine months of this year.Major losers in the main market included Ezdan, Mazaya Qatar, Qatar German Medical Devices, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank, Lesha Bank, Dukhan Bank, Salam International Investment, Baladna, Meeza, Aamal Company, Industries Qatar and Estithmar Holding this week which saw Ooredoo's fully owned fintech subsidiary's intention to form a strategic collaboration with PayPal.Nevertheless, Beema, QLM, Doha Bank, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Al Khaleej Takaful and Qamco were among the movers in the main market this week which saw Ashghal announce 13 new contracts worth QR12bn to enhance the infrastructure of road and drainage networks and public buildings and improve the quality of life in Qatar.The Gulf institutions’ net selling increased substantially to QR50.01mn compared to QR26.2mn the week ended September 25.The domestic funds turned net sellers to the tune of QR12.59mn against net buyers of QR83.9mn the previous week.However, the Qatari individuals’ net buying strengthened significantly to QR124.11mn compared to QR73.37mn a week ago.The foreign retail investors’ net buying expanded noticeably to QR8.85mn against QR11.38mn the week ended September 25.The Gulf individuals’ net buying rose perceptibly to QR8.85mn compared to QR5.26mn the previous week.The Arab individual investors turned net buyers to the extent of QR2.25mn against net sellers of QR9.25mn a week ago.The foreign funds’ net selling weakened considerably to QR90.53mn compared to QR138.69mn the week ended September 25.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.23mn the previous week.The main market saw 29% contraction in trade volumes to 628.31mn shares, 19% in value to QR1.88bn and 6% in deals to 106,186 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes jumped 40% to 0.63mn equities and value by 40% to QR1.61mn on more than doubled transactions to 192.

Qatar's saw a robust year-on-year double-digit jump in ships arrival through Hamad, Doha and Al Ruwais ports in the first nine months (9M) of this year, leading to higher movement of containers, cargoes, livestock, RORO (vehicles) and building materials, according to official data.The positive momentum in the maritime sector is expected to continue in the light of the 12-month optimistic outlook, especially for the country’s non-energy private sector, as indicated by the purchasing managers’ index of the Qatar Financial Centre and the forecasts of the International Monetary Fund.The number of ships calling on Qatar's three ports stood at 2,276 in January-September, which saw an 11.3% growth compared to the previous year period. May saw the maximum number of ships berthed at 294, of which 153 was at the Hamad Port, according data released by Mwani Qatar.The building materials traffic through the three ports amounted to 488,069 tonnes in the review period, which reported the maximum growth of 84.37% on a yearly basis. In March 2024, as much as 88,131 tonnes of building materials were handled by the ports.The general cargo through three ports amounted to 1.34mn tonnes in the first nine months of 2025, surging 4.69% on an annualised basis. The maximum cargo handled was in August this year at 254,528 tonnes.Hamad Port – whose multi-use terminal is designed to serve the supply chains for the RORO, grains and livestock – was seen handling 120,710 freight tonnes (F/T) of breakbulk and 108,026 F/T of bulk in August this year.The three ports handled as many as 91,266 RORO in January-September 2025, registering a 2.21% increase on an annualised basis. In January this year, RORO movements was to the tune of 12,841 units, of which 12,823 was through Hamad Port.The container handling through the three ports stood at 1.11mn TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 9M-2025, rising 1.83% year-on-year. The containers handled was seen the maximum in May at 142,843 TEUs.Hamad Port - which features an intermodal transport network that offers direct and indirect shipping services to more than 100 destinations, facilitating efficient transportation and logistics services locally and abroad - saw a total of 143,168 TEUs in May 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.With a stacking area of 176,000sq m, 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.Hamad Port, which recently celebrated a huge milestone of exceeding 10mn TEUs since beginning operations in 2016, has rapidly evolved into a critical hub for international shipping, catering to the needs of all major global shipping lines.The three ports were seen handling 403,868 livestock heads in January-September this year, which however showed a 6.28% decline year-on-year. The heaviest movement of livestock through three ports was reported in May when it was 80,396 units. Hamad Port alone handled 18,000 livestock heads in May 2025.

Qatar is gearing up to establish an advanced production plant centred on free-form design-for-manufacturing-and-assembly (DFMA) and energy-optimisation technologies to boost the country’s high-value manufacturing.The building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) assembly facility — combining geometry-agnostic, model-to-module mass-customisation with smart-factory workflows and just-in-time delivery — is one among the three projects envisaged. In this regard, the Qatar Financial Centre-based EnergyX, JMJ Group Holding, and Hexa Tech have entered into a pact to establish a trio of industrial initiatives in the country.At a ceremony marking the signing of the memorandum of understanding, Korean ambassador to Qatar Hyunsoo Yun and KOTRA Director General Hyuna Kim joined Sheikh Jabor bin Mansour bin Jabor al-Thani, chairman and managing director of JMJ Group Holding; Anas C Maideen, managing director of Hexa Tech; and EnergyX’s chief executive officers, Sean Sunghyun Park and Jean-Jacques Dandrieux.While the MoU is a framework, the scope is ambitious and directly aligned with Qatar’s drive to localise production, diversify the economy, and export Gulf-made solutions across Middle East and North Africa (Mena).The pact would accelerate the deployment of energy-optimised, free-form DFMA building systems, and also mark Mena’s first commercial rollout of UHPC (ultra-high performance concrete) underground safety-cabinet systems—sharpening global focus on Qatar’s smart-city tech leadership.“Qatar can shorten supply chains, improve delivery certainty, and nurture skilled roles across engineering, fabrication, quality, and operations,” said EnergyX founder and chief executive officer Sean Park told Gulf Times.The 3D-printing and smart-node engineering will deploy cutting-edge 3D-printing machinery to fabricate complex cast components for exterior (and interior) applications, enabling distinctive architectural forms while compressing production timelines.EnergyX and its South Korean parent will lead the delivery and implementation of its free-form DFMA, building energy optimisation, BIPV, and UHPC technologies; lead capital planning and coordination for the production plant; oversee technical and operational management; and procure and implement 3D-printing machinery and the engineering systems required to utilise it.JMJ Group Holding and Hexa Tech (Qatar) will arrange the advanced manufacturing sites; secure required business licences, permits, and approvals; provide local logistics; and lead sales, marketing, and business development across the Middle East.JMJ Group Holding - a leading real estate development and investment company - continues to shape Qatar’s skyline through strategic partnerships with Qetaifan Projects, GORD, and Zaha Hadid Architects.“With JMJ Group and Hexa Tech driving regional sales and marketing, Qatar could emerge as a Middle East hub for advanced façades and energy-generating building systems,” Park said.

Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) has made enhancement to its flexible certificate of deposits (Flexi CD), aligning the offering with sustainable finance principles to support green and socially responsible projects.The enhanced Flexi CD continues to offer attractive returns and flexibility while contributing to a positive environmental and social impact.Funds invested in Flexi CD will now be directed towards financing sustainable initiatives – including clean energy, pollution control, green buildings, education and healthcare; thus, offering customers a way to grow their savings, while supporting a sustainable future.Flexi CD is a flexible investment ‘Mudaraba’ product, allowing retail customers to collect profits at the end of each quarter and make early and partial redemptions during the tenor of the deposit.In the event of early redemption, the remaining balance will continue to earn the same expected profit rate. These certificate of deposits can be booked instantly and securely through the QIB mobile app.Flexi CD holders can apply for financing up to 100% of the deposit value, with a financing tenor equivalent to the CD maturity. The minimum subscription is QR100,000 or $25,000.Flexi CD is designed to promote long-term savings and offer attractive annual returns based on currency and tenor. They are available in both Qatari riyal and US dollar, with 1, 2, or 3-year tenors."The enhanced Flexi CD allows customers to grow their savings while contributing to sustainable development, aligning with our long-term commitment to responsible banking. This move is a natural progression of our product strategy meeting the evolving expectations of our stakeholders. It reflects QIB’s role as a forward-thinking financial institution committed to driving positive change," said D. Anand, QIB’s General Manager – Personal Banking Group.

Qatar's economy continues to show resilience and the outlook remains favourable with medium-term growth projected to average 4%, reflecting the North Field expansion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).Twin external and fiscal surpluses are expected to continue and inflation is slated to remain above 2.5% in 2026 before it stabilises around 2% over the medium term, the IMF said in its Article IV consultation with Qatar."Qatar’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by forward-looking policies and large hydrocarbon wealth," said the Bretton Woods institution.The planned expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in the North Field will further strengthen Qatar’s position as a key global energy supplier and support both fiscal and external balances, it added."Overall growth over the medium term is projected to average 4%, reflecting the North Field expansion, which will significantly increase LNG production, and implementation of NDS3" (Third National Development Strategy), it said.“The ongoing implementation of NDS3 is facilitating a transition towards a private sector-led, knowledge-based, more diversified, and environmentally sustainable economy," according to IMF report.Robust non-hydrocarbon growth of more than 4% is expected in 2025, consistent with sound growth in the first half or G1 of 2025 and strong PMI (purchasing managers index) readings.Stressing that the outlook remains favourable; it said growth recovered to 2.4% in 2024, driven by faster non-hydrocarbon expansion at 3.4%.Highlighting twin external and fiscal surpluses to continue, it said the current account remained strong in 2024, posting a surplus exceeding 17% of GDP (gross domestic product).This outcome reflected robust service sector performance and current transfers, which together offset a worsening trade balance.The surplus remained solid in the first quarter of 2025 at 15.6% of GDP and the Qatar Central Bank continues to build foreign reserves ($55bn, 8.1 months of imports, in August), it said, adding the anticipated direct impact of the US tariffs is limited due to the exemption of hydrocarbon exports.“With lower hydrocarbon revenues, the overall fiscal surplus declined to 0.7% of GDP in 2024, although the non-hydrocarbon primary balance improved by 2.4 percentage points," it said.The 2025 budget plans for spending levels comparable to 2024, it said, adding gradual consolidation over the medium term would support a non-hydrocarbon primary balance consistent with intergenerational equity."Provided fiscal prudence is maintained, twin current account and fiscal surpluses are expected to continue over the medium term," the IMF said.The report said continued sound macroeconomic and financial sector policies alongside accelerated structural reforms would further strengthen Qatar’s dynamism and cement its resilience.

Reflecting the optimism on further rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) Monday gained for the second straight session as its key index rose more than 24 points and capitalisation added in excess of QR1bn.The local retail investors were seen net buyers as the 20-stock Qatar Index rose 0.22% to 11,001.88 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,951 points.The foreign retail investors turned bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 4.08%.The telecom and transport counters witnessed higher than average demand in the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR1.41bn or 0.21% to QR659.05bn; mainly on microcap segments.The Gulf retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.15mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.38mn trade across 57 deals.The domestic institutions continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen gaining on par with the key barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf institutions were increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 0.22%, the All Share Index by 0.13% and the All Islamic Index 0.22% in the main market.The telecom sector index shot up 2.63% and transport 0.65%; while insurance declined 0.68%, consumer goods and services (0.36%), real estate (0.25%), industrials (0.03%) and banks and financial services (0.01%).As many as 16 stocks gained, while 26 declined and 10 were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Ooredoo, Nakilat, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Mekdam Holding, Dukhan bank, Estithmar Holding and Gulf Warehousing.Nevertheless, Qatar Insurance, Inma Holding, Mazaya Qatar, Mannai Corporation, Qatar Oman Investment, Qatar German Medical Devices, Baladna and Ezdan were among the shakers in the main bourse.In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The local retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR7.87mn compared with net sellers of QR13.97mn on September 28.The foreign individual investors were net buyers to the extent of QR3.71mn against net sellers of QR1.03mn the previous day.The Arab retail investors turned net buyers of QR1.53mn compared with net profit takers of QR1.03mn on Sunday.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR0.99mn against QR0.61mn on September 28.However, the Gulf funds’ net profit booking expanded perceptibly to QR14.68mn compared to QR13.42mn the previous day.The foreign institutions’ net selling increased noticeably to QR1.48mn against QR0.2mn on Sunday.The domestic institutions’ net buying weakened markedly to QR2.05mn compared to QR4.7mn on September 28.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the second consecutive session.The main market saw a 46% jump in trade volumes to 121.25mn shares and 49% in value to QR363.92mn on more than doubled deals to 25,597.In the venture market, a total of 0.35mn equities valued at QR0.92mn changed hands across 101 transactions.

QatarEnergy has signed a long-term sales and purchase agreement (SPA) with Messer for the supply of 100mn cubic feet per annum of high-purity helium from Qatar’s world-class facilities in Ras Laffan to global markets.This marks QatarEnergy’s first direct long-term SPA with Messer, the largest privately held industrial gases company, headquartered in Germany. The SPA signing was hosted by His Excellency Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the president and chief executive officer of QatarEnergy, and attended by Bernd Eulitz, Global chief executive officer of Messer SE & Co., during a special ceremony held at QatarEnergy’s headquarters in Doha. The event was attended by senior executives from both companies."Messer is a leading global supplier of helium with a strong reputation and diverse assets. We are delighted to enter into our first direct agreement with Messer and to continue providing high-quality helium to the world through reliable partners," al-Kaabi said.This pact, according to him, underscores QatarEnergy’s commitment to delivering reliable resources from one of the world’s largest helium producers to support fast-growing industries worldwide.Helium plays a critical role in advanced technologies, including MRI scanners, semiconductor manufacturing, quantum computing, fiber optics, and space exploration.

Techno Q, a leader in technology and digital solutions, particularly in the sports sector, has won new government contracts valued at QR62mn.These contracts include the supply, installation, and maintenance of giant screen systems and broadcasting infrastructure in several sports facilities across the country.This achievement is further evidence of the trust that government entities place in Techno Q’s services and its high efficiency in executing vital projects that meet international standards, the company said in its regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.It also reflects the country's commitment to developing sports infrastructure and providing an advanced environment that supports both athletes and fans."These projects are not just new contracts; they are a direct contribution to supporting the development of sports in our country and an affirmation of our strategic partners' trust in our capabilities," said Zeyad al-Jaidah, a board member and managing director at Techno Q.Through these projects, Techno Q continues to solidify its position as a key partner in the nation's sports renaissance by providing advanced technological solutions and utilising the latest global systems in display, broadcasting, and lighting.This ensures that it keeps pace with the rapid developments in the sports industry and enhances the experience of fans, the filing said."With increasing national investments in this vital sector, Techno Q looks forward to more future successes and to solidifying its role as a reliable national company that supports the state's efforts in building a comprehensive and sustainable sports system," it added.

Qatar's renewed commitment to the North Field gas expansion will provide a big medium-term boost to the country's economy, according to Oxford Economics.The country grew by 1.9% year-on-year in the second quarter or Q2 of 2025, reflecting the economy's resilience against the regional and global headwinds, although the energy sector and the less supportive base from last year dragged on activity, Oxford Economics said in its latest research note.The non-hydrocarbon economy grew by 3.4% year-on-year, lifting the headline GDP (gross domestic product) by 2.2 ppts, but the oil sector contracted by 0.9% year-on-year, shaving 0.3 ppts from headline GDP growth, it said.On an annualised basis, Q2's expansion reflected strong performances from construction, trade, accommodation services, and the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector, it said, adding the manufacturing made a second consecutive positive contribution to annual growth in Q2.Keeping its 2025 growth forecast at 2.7% year-on-year but expecting the rate to nearly double in 2026-27 as the energy and non-energy sectors should contribute positively this year and beyond; it said "the authorities’ renewed commitment to the North Field gas expansion will provide a big medium-term boost, with North Field East's first production increase due by mid-2026, followed by the North Field South phase."Qatar targets LNG (liquefied natural gas) capacity target of 142mn tonnes per annum (Mtpa) by end-2030; up nearly 85% from the current 77Mtpa, and up 13% on the intermediate target of 126Mtpa by 2027.The first production boost will come from the North Field East project by mid-2026, followed by the North Field South phase of the expansion. The North Field West phase is in its early stages, with construction likely to begin in 2027."We forecast non-energy sector growth of 3.6% this year and a similar number in 2026, up from 3.4% in 2024," Oxford Economics said.Accordingly, Qatar's fiscal surplus is expected to improve from 0.7% of GDP in 2024 to 1.7% this year and further to 5.4% by 2026.On consumer price index (CPI) inflation front, the research note said it is expected to be 0.3% this year but would jump to 2.6% in 2026.The research note also said Saudi equity market may revive as cap on foreign ownership eases. "The Saudi equity market has underperformed its GCC peers year-to-date, but a higher foreign ownership limit could be a positive catalyst, reigniting global investor interest. Combined with expectations of resilient consumption growth, we see Saudi equities offering compelling investment value and expect the strong upward momentum to continue," it said.Dubai consolidated its global leadership in Greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first half (H1), attracting a record 643 projects and $11bn in FDI inflows (up 62% year-on-year), highlighting the strong investor confidence in robust economic fundamentals amid the heightened global uncertainty."We believe the combination of lower rates, strong employment growth, contained inflation, and a robust fiscal position creates a favourable environment for sustained growth and economic transformation. We forecast UAE GDP growth of 4.9% in 2025, underpinned by recovering oil production and an expansion of non-oil business activity, where FDI continues to play a pivotal role," Oxford Economics said.

The availability of electric heavy-duty trucks remains "limited" in Qatar and the wider Gulf Co-operation Council or GCC, underscoring the urgent need to expand supply and attract manufacturers to the region, a PricewaterhouseCoopers or PwC study has said.Stressing that accelerating sustainable trucking offers significant, measurable climate benefits; PwC Middle East research shows that, under a government-led scenario, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar could avoid up to 2.6mn tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2035 – the equivalent of 2.6 years of Qatar’s current road freight emissions.PwC and TruKKer, the Middle East’s first and largest on-demand truck aggregator, in their joint research across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar found that electric heavy-duty truck availability in the GCC remains limited, especially in the crucial mid-weight segment (10–20 tonnes), hindering fleet diversification and slowing electrification.With only 15 zero-emission models available - 70% fewer than in Europe - and most internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles being second-hand imports, "the region needs to expand its EV model availability, attract OEMs, and tailor deployment strategies to accelerate sustainable road freight transformation."The report said ambitious commitments made by countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other GCC countries include nationwide electrification targets to public-private partnerships for clean transport.With GCC countries committing to net-zero targets, decarbonising heavy transport – one of the most emissions-intensive sectors – is essential, it said, adding without intervention, logistics emissions risk offsetting pervades into other areas.The shift to battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks offers a chance to rethink mobility and reshape the region’s energy model, according to the report ‘Driving change – the future of sustainable heavy-duty trucks in the Middle East’.For economies built on hydrocarbons, road freight is both a challenge and an opportunity – a bridge between legacy systems and the cleaner, technology-led future outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, the UAE Net Zero by 2050, Qatar National Vision 2030 and vision programs of other GCC countries, it said.Scaling zero-emission trucks can cut emissions while driving industrial innovation and diversification, it added.“With smarter policy, investment and the right incentives, zero-emission trucks can soon outpace their combustion-engine counterparts not just environmentally but commercially. The GCC has everything it needs to lead this transition, including a fast-growing clean energy base, a strong logistics backbone, and the ambition to drive change," said Heiko Seitz, Global Transport and Logistics Leader, PwC Middle East.Calling for a confident and future-focused coordinated action plan; it said this is not only about reducing emissions, but on building a road freight system that is more efficient, more resilient, and ready for the next generation of growth.Clear regulations and subsidies can spark early demand, strong grid and charging networks will enable operations, cost optimisation through renewable integration will make fleets viable and localised solutions will ensure technology works in the Gulf region’s unique climate and logistics environment.

Market EyeConcerns on future rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve had its overarching influence in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which closed the week in the negative, after remaining bullish for four consecutive weeks, with key index plummeting 349 points and capitalisation eroding about QR20bn.Foreign institutions were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index plunged 3.09% this week which saw an Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales forecast suggest that Qatar's gross domestic product growth to nearly double to 4.8% in 2026 on "significant" liquefied natural gas output through North Field expansion.More than 60% of the traded constituents were in the red this week which saw Qatar draft new legislations, including an updated public–private partnership law, a foreign investment law and a bankruptcy law, to help the private sector, which otherwise has been saving QR100mn annually through various industrial incentives.The Gulf institutions turned bearish in the main market this week which saw Ooredoo Group sell a minority 6% stake in Meeza-QSTP to certain funds managed by Fiera Capital (UK) at the current market price.The Arab individuals were seen net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Company sign a pact to acquire a 7% stake held by Qatar Oman Investment Company in the Qatar Aluminum Extrusion Company.However, the domestic funds turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw the Qatar Central Bank’s second phase of primary dealer framework record 29 deals valued in excess of QR2.8bn to date.The local retail investors were seen bullish in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 0.02mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.06mn trade across 14 deals.The foreign individuals turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw 0.01mn Doha Bank-sponsored exchange-traded fund QETF valued at QR0.08mn change hands across 17 transactions.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw as many as 0.21mn of sovereign bonds valued at QR2.12bn trade across four deals.Market capitalisation plunged QR19.86bn or 2.94% to QR656.75bn on the back of large and midcap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease in the main and venture markets this week which saw the consumer goods and realty sectors together constitute more than 61% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index plummeted 3.09%, the All Share Index by 3.11% and the All Islamic Index by 2.01% this week which saw Al Mahhar Holding Company find place in the FTSE Russell Global Equity Index Series.The banks and financial services sector index plunged 4.62%, industrials (2.16%), transport (1.62%), real estate (1.11%) and consumer goods and services (0.35%); while telecom and insurance gained 0.54% and 0.27% respectively this week which saw Mekdam Holding Group bag a QR204mn contract from Qatar Fertiliser Company.The market was skewed towards shakers with as many 32 constituents reporting declines, while 16 gained and five were unchanged this week which saw QTerminals, in which Milaha holds 49% stake, work towards sustainability for all its future acquisitions, as it aims to broaden the footprint in the strategic global markets.Major losers in the main market included QNB, Widam Food, Dukhan Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Industries Qatar, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, AlRayan Bank, Mannai Corporation, Qatar National Cement, Gulf International Services, Qamco, United Development Company, Barwa and Nakilat. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week which saw Gulf Warehousing Company establish a branch of GWC Energy Logistics (Dubai) in Sharjah as part of the company’s expansion in the logistics sector across the UAE.Nevertheless, Medicare Group, Gulf Warehousing, Estithmar Holding, Baladna, Mazaya Qatar and Vodafone Qatar were among the movers in the main market this week which saw QNB Group completes an inaugural benchmark 750mn euros green bond issuance under its medium term note programme in the international capital markets.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR138.69mn compared with net buyers of QR260.96mn the previous week.The Gulf institutions were net sellers to the extent of QR26.2mn against net buyers of QR9.11mn the week ended September 18.The Arab individual investors were net sellers to the tune of QR9.25mn compared with net buyers of QR3.72mn a week ago.However, the domestic funds turned net buyers to the extent of QR83.9mn against net sellers of QR159.27mn the previous week.The Qatari individuals were net buyers to the tune of QR73.37mn compared with net sellers of QR101.56mn the week ended September 18.The foreign retail investors turned net buyers to the extent of QR11.38mn against net profit takers of QR8.39mn a week ago.The Gulf individuals were net buyers to the tune of QR5.26mn compared with net sellers of QR4.73mn the previous week.The Arab institutions’ net buying expanded marginally to QR0.23mn against QR0.17mn the week ended September 18.The main market saw 16% contraction in trade volumes to 886.29mn shares, 20% in value to QR2.33bn and 7% in deals to 112,681 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes shrank 81% to 0.45mn equities, value by 81% to QR1.15mn and transactions by 60% to 94.

The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has achieved significant milestone with the launch of the second phase of primary dealer (PD) framework, recording 29 deals valued in excess of QR2.8bn to date.About 16% of the primary dealers’ share was redistributed to investors on the first day of issuance, the QCB said on X.“This activity marks one of the strongest trading performances in the Qatari secondary market, demonstrating strong investor confidence and high demand for Qatari riyal-denominated financial instruments,” the QCB said.This was accomplished through the development of an advanced infrastructure for trading outside the stock market, significantly enhancing efficiency and transparency in the secondary market under the supervision and oversight of the QCB.As part of its ongoing commitment to developing the local debt market and promoting Islamic finance instruments, the QCB introduced ljarah sukuk as an alternative to Murabaha sukuk.This initiative aligns with international standards and enables these instruments to be traded, the QCB said.Ijarah sukuk have witnessed widespread demand from both Islamic and non-Islamic banks, and have been traded alongside conventional bonds, reflecting growing confidence in Islamic financial instruments and the effectiveness of the new regulatory framework.The PD frameworks seeks to strengthen the government securities issuance, enhance secondary market liquidity, and build investor confidence with further opportunities for participations in future issuances.The QCB’s first phase of PD framework, in collaboration with Bloomberg, was aligned with its Third Financial Sector Strategy, which is set to modernise the market infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and participation in Qatar’s financial markets.The QCB has adopted Bloomberg’s auction system to streamline its local currency debt issuance and liquidity management workflows.The adoption of Bloomberg’s auction system allows local banks to bid for QCB-issued securities directly through the Bloomberg terminal, creating a streamlined and efficient process.This system supports secondary market trading, enabling banks to offer these securities to clients and strengthening Qatar’s financial ecosystem.The launch of second phase of PD framework had seen the appointment of local primary dealers: AlRayan Bank, HSBC Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, QNB and Commercial Bank, marking a key milestone in the development of ongoing capital markets.The QCB had successfully executed the first auction under the PD framework, issuing local currency government bonds and sukuk, on behalf of the Ministry of Finance.A total of QR15.43bn was offered and fully allocated across four securities: two year (tap) and five year (new issuance) tranches for both bonds and sukuks.The PD framework is a foundational initiative to promote deeper and more liquid domestic capital markets. It is designed to build investor confidence, ensure orderly issuance, and enhance the secondary market for government securities. The framework is expected to evolve over time, with further opportunities for eligible banks to apply for participation in future phases.

Hamad Port has been ranked first in the Gulf region for the first time and 11th worldwide in the CPPI or Container Port Performance Index 2024.The CPPI, issued by the World Bank in collaboration with S&P Global Market Intelligence, serves as global recognition of Hamad Port’s exceptional operational efficiency and high performance, reinforcing Qatar's standing as a key regional hub for trade and logistics.It also highlights the port’s critical role in driving the nation’s economic growth, positioning it as a strategic link in global supply chains and a trusted transshipment hub in the region.The index bases its assessments on a wide range of data, with a primary focus on the time vessels require to complete loading and unloading operations-an essential measure of operational efficiency and a key factor in evaluating the resilience and reliability of global trade.Hamad Port's strong performance reflects the advanced infrastructure, modern technologies, and premium services it provides, said Mwani Qatar in its social media handle X.The 2024 edition of the index evaluated 403 container ports worldwide. It reported an overall decline in global port performance between 2020 and 2024 due to the Red Sea crisis, challenges at the Panama Canal, and pandemic-related shocks.The report highlighted the uneven efficiency gains across regions and income groups.

Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has achieved significant milestone with the launch of the second phase of primary dealer (PD) framework, recording 29 deals with a total value exceeding QR2.8bn to date.About 16% of the primary dealers' share was redistributed to investors on the first day of issuance, the QCB said."This activity marks one of the strongest trading performances in the Qatari secondary market, demonstrating strong investor confidence and high demand for Qatari riyal-denominated financial instruments," QCB said.This was accomplished through the development of an advanced infrastructure for trading outside the stock market, significantly enhancing efficiency and transparency in the secondary market under the supervision and oversight of the QCB.As part of its ongoing commitment to developing the local debt market and promoting Islamic finance instruments, the QCB introduced ljarah sukuk as an alternative to Murabaha sukuk.This initiative aligns with international standards and enables these instruments to be traded, the QCB said.Ijarah sukuk have witnessed widespread demand from both Islamic and non-Islamic banks, and have been traded alongside conventional bonds, reflecting growing confidence in Islamic financial instruments and the effectiveness of the new regulatory framework.The PD frameworks seeks to strengthen the government securities issuance, enhance secondary market liquidity, and build investor confidence with further opportunities for participantion in future isduances.

Market EyeForeign institutions were seen squaring off position in the Qatar Stock Exchange, which closed in the negative for the fourth straight session, resulting in 96 points plunge in index and about QR5bn in capitalisation.The banks, consumer goods and telecom counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.86% to 11,078.5 points, although it touched an intraday high of 11,199 points.More than 73% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 4.8%.The Gulf institutions were seen net profit takers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR4.73bn or 0.71% to QR664.32bn; mainly on midcap segments.The Gulf retail investors turned bearish in the main market, which saw as many as 2,936 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.02mn trade across six deals.The Arab institutions’ weakened net buying had its marginal influence on the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the increase.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the domestic funds turned net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index shed 0.86%, the All Share Index by 0.85% and the All Islamic Index 0.68% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index tanked 1.24%, consumer goods and services (0.98%), telecom (0.94%), transport (0.26%), industrials (0.15%) and insurance (0.06%); while real estate was unchanged.As many as 10 stocks gained, while 38 declined and four were unchanged.Major losers in the main market included Medicare Group, Qatar Islamic Bank, QIIB, Qatar Oman Investment, Meeza, QNB, Dukhan Bank, Barwa, Ooredoo and Nakilat.In the juniour bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Estithmar Holding, Mazaya Qatar, Ezdan, Mekdam Holding, Gulf Warehousing and Vodafone Qatar were among the movers in the main market.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking increased substantially to QR44.51mn compared to QR5.55mn the previous day.The Gulf institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR13.29mn against net buyers of QR12.47mn on September 23.The Gulf individual investors were net sellers to the extent of QR0.71mn compared with net buyers of QR1.31mn on Tuesday.The Arab institutions’ net buying weakened marginally to QR0.02mn against QR0.05mn the previous day.However, the domestic funds turned net buyers to the tune of QR43.53mn compared with net sellers of QR2.24mn on September 23.The local retail investors were net buyers to the extent of QR13.09mn against net sellers of QR5.02mn on Tuesday.The foreign individual investors’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR5.21mn compared to QR4.7mn the previous day.The Arab retail investors’ net profit booking shrank noticeably to QR3.33mn against QR5.72mn on September 23.The main market saw a 22% jump in trade volumes to 217.05mn shares, 22% in value to QR572.05mn and 3% in deals to 24,303.In the venture market, a total of 0.23mn equities valued at QR0.6mn changed hands across 18 transactions.

Mekdam Holding Group has bagged a contract from Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) to execute a strategic contract valued at QR203.9mn.The contract covers the supply of Tier-1 manpower to support major industrial projects, notably the carbon capture and storage (CCS) project and the QatarEnergy urea project.This contract -- which represents a significant step towards strengthening the operational capabilities of national industrial projects -- will run for a duration of five years, starting on October 1, 2025, with an option to extend for an additional five years, Mekdam said in a regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.Under the agreement, Mekdam will provide a highly qualified workforce in line with the highest international standards, ensuring that QAFCO’s requirements are met efficiently across all phases of project execution and operations.Winning this strategic contract reflects the confidence that leading national institutions place in the capabilities and expertise of Mekdam Holding Group.It also reaffirms the group’s firm commitment to delivering advanced technical solutions that align with the state’s vision for the development of the energy sector and related industries.

Market EyeThe bearish spell continued for the third straight session in the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) Tuesday with its key index losing 47 points and capitalisation eroding more than QR5bn, reflecting the concerns over future rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve, which signalled a measured approach to further easing.The transport and banking counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.42% to 11,174.88 points, although it touched an intraday high of 11,234 points.As much as 51% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 5.71%.The Arab individuals turned net profit takers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR5.23bn or 0.78% to QR669.05bn; mainly on large and midcap segments.The local retail investors were also seen net sellers in the main market, which saw as many as 8,352 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.02mn trade across three deals.The domestic institutions were seen bearish in the main bourse, whose trade turnover grew amidst lower volumes.The Islamic index made gains vis-a-vis declines in the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The foreign funds continued to be net sellers but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, which saw as many as 0.21mn sovereign bonds valued at QR2.12bn change hands across four deals.The Total Return Index shed 0.42% and the All Share Index by 0.65%, while the All Islamic Index was up 0.1% in the main market.The transport sector index tanked 1.06%, banks and financial services (1.05%), insurance (0.26%), industrials (0.14%) and real estate (0.14%); whereas consumer goods and services gained 0.68% and telecom 0.08%.As many as 21 stocks gained, while 26 declined and four were unchanged.Major losers in the main market included QNB, Baladna, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Nakilat, Dukhan bank, Industries Qatar and Milaha.In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Medicare Group, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatar German Medical Devices, Al Meera, Inma Holding, Al Mahhar Holding, Estithmar Holding and Qamco were among the movers in the main market.The Arab individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR5.72mn against net buyers of QR1.33mn the previous day.The local retail investors were net sellers to the extent of QR5.02mn compared with net buyers of QR24.36mn on Monday.The domestic institutions turned net profit takers to the tune of QR2.24mn against net buyers of QR7.57mn on September 22.However, the Gulf funds were net buyers to the extent of QR12.47mn compared with net sellers of QR9.42mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR4.7mn against net profit takers of QR0.75mn on Monday.The Gulf individual investors’ net buying increased marginally to QR1.31mn compared to QR1.2mn on September 22.The Arab institutions’ net buying was rather flat at QR0.05mn.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking weakened substantially to QR5.55mn against QR24.35mn the previous day.The main market saw a 14% shrinkage in trade volumes to 177.43mn shares but on 2% jump in value to QR468.27mn and 2% in deals to 23,671.In the venture market, a total of 0.08mn equities valued at QR0.2mn changed hands across 26 transactions.