Covid-19 has sparked widespread digital adoption in Qatar as the threat of infection combined with social distancing measures has transformed consumer demand and business-customer interactions in potentially permanent ways, a new report has shown.
In the financial services sector, for example, Qatari banks have sought to improve digital banking platforms in order to cater to increased demand for online payments, Oxford Business Group has said in its Covid-19 economic impact assessment.
In late March, the Qatar Central Bank launched its Qatar Mobile Payment System, which uses QR-code technology to allow consumers to make digital payments through their smartphones.
This, OBG noted builds on existing efforts to develop financial technology (fintech) through the Qatar Fintech Hub, which runs a series of accelerator and incubator programmes.
While these solutions relate mostly to online payments, the pandemic has also transformed business-to-customer and business-to-business relationships in the banking sector.
Rather than view the digital shift as a necessary inconvenience, Joseph Abraham, croup chief executive officer of Commercial Bank, told OBG that the increased use of digital and video technology to connect with customers and partners was having a positive impact on business relationships.
“This situation has accelerated digital adoption. Once customers have tried using digital banking, they can see that it is easier and more convenient. Using digital services has now become habitual for some people who would have otherwise used branches for their everyday banking transactions. For banks, this leads to an opportunity for sustainable growth coupled with an increased need for digital innovation,” Abraham said.
One digital tool the bank has expanded during the pandemic is an online appointment system that allows customers to book an appointment at the bank, much as they would do with a doctor or hairdresser.
In addition, social distancing restrictions have meant that many meetings have shifted from in-person discussions to online video platforms.
According to OBG, Qatar’s health sector is another area where the business-customer relationship is benefitting from the increased use of digital technologies.
The outbreak of Covid-19 has in many cases led to improved e-health offerings from medical practitioners. This has not only helped to reduce the risk of contracting the virus, but has also allowed for more regular check-ups, given the ease and efficiency of video calls.
The Ministry of Public Health has assisted hospitals and medical institutions with various forms of video consultation, while privately owned KIMS Qatar Medical Centre launched its own telehealth services in April.
In addition, Meddy – a local doctor-booking platform – also introduced telemedicine services as part of its offering, allowing patients to carry out consultations through voice or video calls, OBG noted.
In late March, the Qatar Central Bank launched its Qatar Mobile Payment System, which uses QR-code technology to allow consumers to make digital payments through their smartphones.
This, OBG noted builds on existing efforts to develop financial technology (fintech) through the Qatar Fintech Hub, which runs a series of accelerator and incubator programmes.
While these solutions relate mostly to online payments, the pandemic has also transformed business-to-customer and business-to-business relationships in the banking sector.
Rather than view the digital shift as a necessary inconvenience, Joseph Abraham, croup chief executive officer of Commercial Bank, told OBG that the increased use of digital and video technology to connect with customers and partners was having a positive impact on business relationships.
“This situation has accelerated digital adoption. Once customers have tried using digital banking, they can see that it is easier and more convenient. Using digital services has now become habitual for some people who would have otherwise used branches for their everyday banking transactions. For banks, this leads to an opportunity for sustainable growth coupled with an increased need for digital innovation,” Abraham said.
One digital tool the bank has expanded during the pandemic is an online appointment system that allows customers to book an appointment at the bank, much as they would do with a doctor or hairdresser.
In addition, social distancing restrictions have meant that many meetings have shifted from in-person discussions to online video platforms.
According to OBG, Qatar’s health sector is another area where the business-customer relationship is benefitting from the increased use of digital technologies.
The outbreak of Covid-19 has in many cases led to improved e-health offerings from medical practitioners. This has not only helped to reduce the risk of contracting the virus, but has also allowed for more regular check-ups, given the ease and efficiency of video calls.
The Ministry of Public Health has assisted hospitals and medical institutions with various forms of video consultation, while privately owned KIMS Qatar Medical Centre launched its own telehealth services in April.
In addition, Meddy – a local doctor-booking platform – also introduced telemedicine services as part of its offering, allowing patients to carry out consultations through voice or video calls, OBG noted.
