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Friday, December 05, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "Real Estate" (27 articles)

Gulf Times
Business

Barwa sells land plot in Bahrain

Barwa Real Estate Group has sold a land plot in Bahrain Bay, owned by GHIC Real Estate, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barwa Real Estate.Under the agreement, the sale of the 12,478 sqm plot will be completed according to the terms set forth in the agreement, Barwa said in a mandatory regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.This transaction is part of Barwa Real Estate’s strategy to optimise its portfolio performance and divest non-income-generating assets, positively affecting the group’s financial indicators and contributing to sustainable growth in shareholder returns."There are no conflicts of interest among the contracting parties in this agreement," the filing said.

Aqarat president Khaled Ahmed al-Obaidli delivering the opening speech during the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum. PICTURE: Thajudheen
Business

3rd Qatar Real Estate Forum launched

Qatar’s real estate market has shown resilience and “record achievement” amid global economic challenges, Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) president Khaled Ahmed al-Obaidli announced Sunday at the opening of the ‘Qatar Real Estate Forum 2025’.The forum, now in its third edition under the theme ‘Aqarat’s Future’, was officially launched by HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, in the presence of high-level officials from Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries, including regional and international developers and investors.In his opening speech at the forum’s third edition, al-Obaidli emphasised that the country’s real estate sector continues to maintain “its position as one of the most valuable assets” of Qatar, “despite the accelerating challenges facing the global economy”.“The Qatari real estate market sustained its strong performance through the end of the third quarter of this year, achieving a 54% increase in registered sales transactions and a 41% increase in total sales value compared to last year — a record achievement,” al-Obaidli emphasised.He also announced that Aqarat has issued licenses to 19 real estate developers, citing the authority’s launch of its strategic plan in December 2024. He said by H1-2025, “all relevant legislations were activated to support the achievements of the state’s goals.”“Furthermore, training programmes are being developed to enhance the capabilities of Qatari professionals and practitioners in the real estate field, including brokers, valuers, and property managers, in collaboration with local and international institutes and universities,” al-Obaidli pointed out.According to al-Obaidli, Aqarat also launched the ‘Real Estate Investor Journey’, in collaboration with national ministries and institutions, to further enhance investor experience.He noted that the initiative enables individuals to obtain property ownership documents and residency permits through a single, user-friendly digital platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI), underscoring Aqarat’s leadership in innovation and service excellence.“In promoting Qatar’s unique real estate investment environment, the authority is also implementing an integrated plan to showcase the Qatari real estate market globally, reinforcing Qatar’s position as an international investment destination,” he stated.Al-Obaidli stressed that Saudi Arabia’s participation in the forum as a “guest of honour” highlights the symbolic and deep-rooted ties between the two Gulf nations, as well as shared aspirations for the real estate sector.He said: “We are honoured this year to welcome the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the ‘Guest of Honour’, reflecting the deep-rooted Gulf relations and the shared vision for a prosperous real estate future. We are also pleased to announce that the first meeting of the GCC Heads of Real Estate Authorities was held in Doha on October 11, 2025, in conjunction with the forum’s events.”Al-Obaidli also opened the forum with a strong message of regional co-operation: “We firmly believe that the future of the real estate sector is built on partnerships and regional integration. We look forward to constructive discussions and actionable outcomes that will contribute to advancing real estate development in Qatar and the wider region.”He said the forum will be highlighted by the launching of the ‘Qatar Real Estate Award’, which he described as “a prestigious national platform” aimed at honouring outstanding achievements that align with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. The winners will be announced during the forum’s activities, which will run until October 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), al-Obaidli added.

Engineer Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, chairman of the Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority. PICTURE: Thajudheen
Business

Qatar Real Estate Forum to showcase digital innovation, global partnerships

Qatar’s massive investments in innovation and digital technologies will have a positive impact on the country’s property market, which is poised to become a regional real estate destination.Engineer Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, the chairman of the Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat), emphasised that the country’s real estate sector is undergoing a digital transformation aimed at simplifying investor experience and positioning Qatar as a regional hub for property development.Al-Obaidli explained that the use of artificial intelligence and digital platforms is essential for the sector’s future. “We want people’s experience to be easy, clear, and user-friendly,” he told Gulf Times, describing a vision where AI-powered systems guide users through property selection based on budget, family size, and location.“It should even direct a potential client to what the possibilities and good investments that would be worth exploring in Qatar, al-Obaidli pointed out.He also confirmed that Aqarat, along with other government ministries, is investing heavily in developing such platforms. “We are in the process of developing AI-powered platforms, AI agents, and other similar innovative technologies,” he explained.Al-Obaidli emphasised that the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum will feature Saudi Arabia as the “host country.” The event will also introduce the ‘Qatar Real Estate Award 2025’.More than 50 experts from Qatar and abroad are expected to share insights during the forum, which will run from October 12 to 14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, alongside Cityscape Qatar 2025, al-Obaidli noted.“We hope for more partnerships between our local companies and the international companies that are expected to participate in this year’s edition. We aim to provide a platform where landmark iconic ideas can be transformed into reality,” al-Obaidli said.He also said the Qatar Real Estate Forum is designed to facilitate collaboration, spark innovation, and deliver new products for Qatar and the wider Gulf region. “The third edition, organised under the theme ‘Aqarat’s Future’, continues to build on the success of the two previous editions, solidifying the forum’s position as a strategic platform that brings together decision-makers, experts, and investors,” he said.Earlier, al-Obaidli announced that Aqarat is positioning the Qatar Real Estate Award 2025 “as a strategic initiative to enhance regulatory impact and promote excellence across the country’s property sector.”In a statement, Aqarat described the Qatar Real Estate Award 2025 as "a dedicated platform to celebrate excellence and innovation” in Qatar’s real estate sector. “The award aims to honour pioneering projects and innovative ideas that enhance Qatar’s position as a leading global investment destination, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030,” Aqarat stated further.The award categories include ‘Best Residential Project’, which is evaluated on quality of life elements, building classification, green space ratio, community services and amenities, public utility integration, and resident satisfaction metrics.The ‘Best Sustainable Urban Development Project’ is assessed through architectural plans, construction materials, environmental certification (GSAS or LEED), efficiency reports, smart systems, EIA studies, and readiness for future technologies.The ‘Best Commercial/Office Real Estate Project’ is judged on work environment, digital infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, interior flexibility, and integration with public services.The ‘Best Rest Estate Investment’ award is based on feasibility studies, ROI indicators, occupancy/sales rates, market contribution, job creation, operations and maintenance (O&M) and expansion plans, and connectivity and integration with public utilities and community services.

Aqarat chairman Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli
Business

Aqarat leverages real estate award event to raise industry standards, drive innovation

The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) is positioning the ‘Qatar Real Estate Award 2025’ as a strategic initiative to enhance regulatory impact and promote excellence across the country’s property sector.Aqarat recently announced the launch of the awards event, which will be held alongside the third edition of the ‘Qatar Real Estate Forum’, organised by the authority from October 12-14 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).In a statement, Aqarat described the ‘Qatar Real Estate Award 2025’ as “a dedicated platform to celebrate excellence and innovation” in Qatar’s real estate sector. “The award aims to honour pioneering projects and innovative ideas that enhance Qatar’s position as a leading global investment destination, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030,” Aqarat stated further.The award categories include ‘Best Residential Project’, which is evaluated on quality of life elements, building classification, green space ratio, community services and amenities, public utility integration, and resident satisfaction metrics.The ‘Best Sustainable Urban Development Project’ is assessed through architectural plans, construction materials, environmental certification (GSAS or LEED), efficiency reports, smart systems, EIA studies, and readiness for future technologies.The ‘Best Commercial/Office Real Estate Project’ is judged on work environment, digital infrastructure, proximity to business hubs, interior flexibility, and integration with public services.The ‘Best Rest Estate Investment’ award is based on feasibility studies, ROI indicators, occupancy/sales rates, market contribution, job creation, operations and maintenance (O&M) and expansion plans, and connectivity and integration with public utilities and community services.Aqarat is inviting all real estate developers, consulting firms, and contractors to nominate their outstanding projects to Deadline for submission is on October 7, 2025.In his official message on the forum’s website, Aqarat chairman Khaled bin Ahmed al-Obaidli emphasised the broader significance of the forum and its alignment with Qatar’s national development goals.“The third edition also places strong emphasis on the pivotal role of government in shaping the sector. It highlights recent legislation and policies designed to create a safe and stimulating real estate environment, strengthen investor confidence, and establish a robust regulatory framework that ensures sustainable and well-organised growth, aligning with the goals of Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030,” al-Obaidli stated.He noted that this year’s edition will be devoted to the investor journey by reviewing the stages of investment and the best practices “that help investors maximise the promising opportunities offered by Qatar’s real estate market.”“Forum sessions will further examine ways to streamline procedures and enhance the overall investor experience, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading real estate investment destination distinguished by transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business,” he pointed out.Al-Obaidli added: “In light of global transformations, this forum will feature a dedicated section on the latest digital innovations revolutionising the sector, including smart platforms and advanced data analytics.“These technologies play a vital role in enhancing transparency, facilitating investment, and unlocking new horizons for growth in Qatar’s real estate landscape. Moreover, the forum will highlight the most prominent projects that are shaping the future of the sector and defining Qatar’s urban and economic development trajectory.”

UDC President and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah.
Business

UDC reinforces Qatar’s investment appeal ahead of real estate forum

United Development Company (UDC) is sharpening its strategic focus to bolster investor confidence and drive economic diversification in Qatar’s real estate sector, ahead of the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum, scheduled on October 14-16 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).“We have refined our mission, vision, and value promise, not as a departure from our strengths, but as a necessary shift to align with the opportunities and challenges ahead. Investor confidence comes from knowing that a company is not only resilient today but also prepared for the future,” UDC President and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.He said: “At UDC, we are applying our strategic choices to make that confidence tangible while delivering projects with consistency, diversifying our offerings to serve different market segments, and embedding sustainability and innovation into everything we do.”As the forum’s Platinum Sponsor, al-Jaidah emphasised that UDC is leveraging its strategic choices to deliver consistent project execution, diversify its offerings, and embed sustainability and innovation across its portfolio.“The message to investors is clear: UDC is future-ready,” al-Jaidah stressed, adding that the company is “building with long-term value in mind, and in doing so, reinforcing Qatar’s reputation as a stable and attractive real estate market, even in a shifting global economy.”Al-Jaidah emphasised Qatar’s political stability, sustained economic growth, and a clear legal framework that supports foreign ownership as key factors driving investment.“Within this landscape, The Pearl Island and Gewan Island have become more than real estate projects; they are destinations that embody Qatar’s ambition for world-class urban living,” he pointed out.He said, “What sets them apart is the combination of iconic architecture, premium lifestyle amenities, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, all anchored by an unrivalled waterfront setting. Investors are drawn not only to the strength of the assets, such as rental yields and long-term capital appreciation, but also to the quality of life these communities provide.“Ultimately, The Pearl and Gewan are proof of concept that in Qatar, investment in place-making can deliver both financial returns and vibrant, sustainable communities. That is the true appeal of investing with UDC.”Al-Jaidah underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in overcoming sector challenges: “Real estate is too complex to be solved in silos. At UDC, we work hand-in-hand with government agencies, financial institutions, contractors, and community representatives to ensure alignment from concept to completion.”He added that trust is built through transparent communication and consistent delivery. “We reinforce this with joint initiatives, regular engagement sessions, and shared performance metrics, so that stakeholders see themselves as partners in success, not just participants in a project,” he stressed.Speaking on market trends, al-Jaidah said Qatar’s luxury real estate segment remains “remarkably resilient,” where rents for premium apartments continue rising, particularly in prime districts like The Pearl and West Bay.Citing published data, al-Jaidah said residential sales are also seeing renewed momentum. “In Q1 2025, transaction volumes rose by 13.2% quarter-over-quarter, with sales values in areas such as The Pearl and Al Qassar jumping by over 50%,” he continued.He further said, “These trends reflect a growing appetite for mixed-use, sustainable, and tech-enabled living. In response, The Pearl Island and Gewan Island are positioned not just to keep pace with these shifts, but to lead them.”Asked about UDC’s strategic priorities for the next five years, and how the Qatar Real Estate Forum help advance those goals, al-Jaidah said: “At UDC, we are committed to creating inspiring destinations that provide lasting value and exceptional experiences. This is achieved through our focus on cost competitiveness, excellence and innovation, ensuring our projects meet and exceed stakeholder expectations.”He added: “The Qatar Real Estate Forum is an ideal platform to advance these goals. It allows us to engage directly with policymakers, investors, and peers, share our outlook for The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, and build partnerships that accelerate progress. For UDC, it’s about turning vision into action by creating destinations that not only inspire but also deliver lasting value for Qatar and beyond."

Gulf Times
Business

Real Estate trading volume at QR 394 million in a week

The volume of real estate trading in sales contracts at the Department of Real Estate Registration at the Ministry of Justice during the period from Sep. 14 to 18, 2025 reached QR, 369,302,924. Total sales contracts for residential units in the Real Estate Bulletin for the same period is QR, 24,648,963. The weekly bulletin issued by the Department shows that the list of real estate properties traded for sale included empty land, houses, residential buildings, and residential units. Sales were concentrated in Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Wakra, Al Daayen, Al Shamal, Umm Slal, Al Khor and Al Thakhira municipalities, and in Lusail 69, Al Kharayej and Ghar Thuaileb zones.

Gulf Times
Region

Palestine warns against Israeli entity's calls to treat Gaza Strip as real estate

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned on Thursday of the danger of provocative Israeli calls to treat the Gaza Strip as real estate for sale, division, or allocation. The ministry considered this a continuation of the crimes of genocide and displacement, and an official admission of the occupation's intentions to completely destroy the Gaza Strip and transform it into a land unfit for human habitation. It also clearly reveals plans to displace its population. The ministry condemned in a statement the Israeli occupation's escalation of genocide and the use of starvation as a weapon of war. It affirms that the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the State of Palestine, in accordance with international law and legitimacy resolutions, and rejects all calls that treat the Strip as a mere empty land, as if it were up for sale or piracy at the auction of racist colonial rulers. The ministry warned of the dangers of international inaction and failure to halt these crimes and protect Palestinian civilians, calling for immediate intervention to compel the Israeli occupation government to halt its aggression against the Palestinian people and to salvage whatever remains of the credibility of the international system and those responsible for implementing its charters and laws.

UDC president and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah.
Business

UDC vision anchors strategic dialogue ahead of Qatar Real Estate Forum

United Development Company (UDC) is positioning its development philosophy as a cornerstone for engaging in critical discussions at the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum, which will be held on October 14-16 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).UDC president and CEO Yasser Salah al-Jaidah said the company’s role in the forum goes beyond showcasing its developments. “Our priority is to contribute strategic insights and proven practices that demonstrate how real estate can deliver lasting economic and social value,” al-Jaidah told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.He noted that UDC, a Platinum Sponsor of this year’s forum, will share lessons from the company’s experience in sustainable development, smart infrastructure, and integrated community living, demonstrating how these principles are being embedded into new projects that support Qatar’s growth.“Equally important, through high-level discussions and bilateral engagements, we aim to help shape the dialogue into concrete outcomes, whether that is in the form of creating tangible investment opportunities, forging innovative partnerships, or offering practical insights that can help inform future policy directions. In this way, UDC directly supports the forum’s ambition to move from vision to measurable impact,” he emphasised.Asked how does UDC’s vision align with the strategic goals of the forum’s third edition, al-Jaidah explained that the company’s vision “is to be the regional leader in real estate development and management,” which is guided by UDC’s ‘Value Promise and Strategic Choices’ of putting customers and communities first, driving cost competitiveness, pursuing operational excellence, and advancing growth through innovation.He continued: “This aligns closely with the third edition of the Qatar Real Estate Forum, which is focused on reinforcing investor confidence and showcasing the strength and efficiency of Qatar’s real estate system. The forum’s emphasis on transparency, streamlined policies, and the integration of digital platforms mirrors our own commitment to operational excellence and innovation. And its role as a hub for public–private dialogue reflects our belief in trust-based partnerships that create long-term value.“Through developments like The Pearl Island and Gewan Island, we demonstrate how this vision translates into secure investments, vibrant communities, and resilient growth, outcomes that are directly in line with both the forum’s objectives and the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.”Al-Jaidah also underscored how UDC supports the Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030 and the broader goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, saying the company’s developments “are not merely real estate projects.”“They are transformative platforms that bring Qatar National Vision 2030’s pillars to life with economic diversification, social development, environmental sustainability, and human capital advancement. Within the framework of the Third National Development Strategy, we see our role as crafting destinations that attract investment, embody innovation, and elevate quality of life,” al-Jaidah explained.He added: “At The Pearl Island, we have set a global benchmark with the Largest Pneumatic Waste Management Network, while on Gewan Island’s Crystal Walk is one of the region’s largest outdoor air-conditioned retail promenades, an innovation that enhances comfort, elevates community experiences, and adds distinctive value for investors and residents alike. These initiatives reflect our ‘Customer and Community First’ approach, while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a hub for world-class living and investment opportunities.”

The agreement represents an important step in supporting the significant urban development taking place in Lusail City, which has become one of the most prominent residential, commercial, and investment destinations in Qatar, attracting increasing interest from both individuals and companies.
Business

QIIB, Qatari Diar sign MoU to finance customers’ plot purchase in Huzoom Lusail Project

QIIB and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing co-operation in real estate development and financing, by enabling the bank to provide financing for purchase of plots in the Huzoom Lusail project in line with its financing terms and conditions. Huzoom is a key real estate development in Lusail City wholly-owned by Qatari Diar. The MoU was signed by QIIB Chief Executive Officer Dr Abdulbasit Ahmad al-Shaibei and Qatari Diar Chief Executive Officer Ali Mohamed al-Ali in the presence of senior officials from both sides. The agreement represents an important step in supporting the significant urban development taking place in Lusail City, which has become one of the most prominent residential, commercial, and investment destinations in Qatar, attracting increasing interest from both individuals and companies. Huzoom Lusail project, is part of Lusail City, and is one of the ambitious developments that aligns with Qatar’s Vision 2030, and which aims to diversify the economy and boost investments in infrastructure and urban development. The MoU also reflects the commitment of both parties to build strategic partnerships that contribute to strengthening the real estate sector as a key pillar of the national economy. It further highlights QIIB’s commitment to financing major development projects and providing real estate solutions tailored to the needs of various customer segments, meeting their housing and investment aspirations. Al-Shaibei said: “We are delighted to sign this MoU with Qatari Diar, one of the leading real estate development companies in Qatar and the region. We are confident that this partnership will enhance the range of real estate financing options available to customers who are seeking to invest in the Huzoom Lusail Project. “At QIIB, real estate financing is a top priority, as it is a key driver of the country’s urban renaissance. We are always keen to provide the best real estate financing products with flexible terms, easy procedures, and extended repayment periods, in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 and in support of comprehensive economic development.” He noted: “QIIB has developed a wide range of real estate financing solutions that address the needs of both individuals and corporates. We consistently innovate in designing these solutions to ensure financial inclusion and accessibility for all customer segments. “Expanding such partnerships with leading institutions like Qatari Diar reflects our commitment to empowering our customers to seize investment opportunities in Qatar’s real estate market under the best possible terms and conditions.” He concluded: “We are confident that the Huzoom Lusail Project will be one of the most attractive developments for investors in the coming period, thanks to its prime location and integrated services. At QIIB, we remain committed to providing the best financing facilities that deliver added value to our clients and help them achieve their housing and investment ambitions.” Al-Ali stated: “We are pleased to sign this MoU with QIIB, an important step in our efforts to provide practical financing solutions for purchasing plots in the Huzoom Lusail project. This project is one of Qatari Diar’s landmark developments in Lusail City and will represent a significant addition to Qatar’s real estate sector, as it embodies an integrated model for developing urban communities that combine living, working, and leisure, in line with the comprehensive renaissance the country is witnessing. “We are confident that this partnership with QIIB will further enhance the project’s attractiveness and open new horizons for both local and international investments.” He added: “Through this cooperation with QIIB, we look forward to enabling customers to seize the investment opportunities offered by the project and benefit from the diverse real estate financing options provided by the bank.”

Gulf Times
Qatar

Real Estate trading volume at over QR 518 million in week

The volume of real estate trading in sales contracts at the Department of Real Estate Registration at the Ministry of Justice during the period from Aug. 31 to Sep. 04, 2025 reached QR 394,349,422. Total sales contracts for residential units in the Real Estate Bulletin for the period from Aug. 31 to Sep. 04, 2025, is QR 124,490,727. The weekly bulletin issued by the Department shows that the list of real estate properties traded for sale includes empty land, houses, residential buildings, commercial-residential buildings and shops, commercial buildings, residential units. Sales were concentrated in Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Wakra, Al Daayen, Al Shamal, Umm Slal, Al Khor and Al Thakhira, municipalities, and in, The Pearl Island, Lusail 69, Al Kharayej, Ghar Thuaileb, Zones.

Gulf Times
Business

QSE index edges higher at market open

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) general index edged up 0.03% at the start of Monday's session, adding 3.27 points to reach 11,134 compared to the previous close.The slight rise was driven by gains in four sectors: Industrials (+0.31%), Telecoms (+0.28%), Insurance (+0.02%), and Banks and Financial Services (+0.02%). In contrast, losses were recorded in Transportation (-0.39%), Consumer Goods and Services (-0.17%), and Real Estate (-0.03%). As of 10:00 am, trading volume stood at 14.203 million shares, with a turnover of QR 36.290 million across 2,600 transactions.

The industrials and real estate counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.39% to 11,099.21 points, although it touched an intraday high of 11,181 points.
Business

QSE sees 62% stocks end in red; M-cap melts QR2.19bn

Market Eye The Qatar Stock Exchange Thursday witnessed more than 62% of its traded constituents end in the red, leading its key barometer to lose as much as 43 points and capitalisation melt in excess of QR2bn. The industrials and real estate counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.39% to 11,099.21 points, although it touched an intraday high of 11,181 points. The local retail investors’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 5%. The Gulf funds’ lower net buying also had its effect on the main bourse, whose capitalisation melted QR2.19bn or 0.33% to QR662.66bn, mainly on microcap segments. The Arab individuals’ weakened bullish grip made its impact on the main market, which saw as many as 1,760 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR5,028 trade across seven deals. The foreign institutions continued to be net sellers but with lesser intensity in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise. The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills. The foreign retail investors were seen bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds. The Total Return Index shed 0.39%, the All Share Index by 0.28% and the All Islamic Index by 0.52% in the main market. The industrials sector index declined 0.51%, realty (0.5%), consumer goods and services (0.36%), banks and financial services (0.28%) and transport (0.24%); while insurance and telecom gained 0.64% and 0.17% respectively. Major shakers in the main market included Estithmar Holding, Baladna, Meeza, Inma Holding, Doha Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, QIIB, Widam Food, Ezdan and Nakilat. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value. Nevertheless, Al Khaleej Takaful, Mannai Corporation, Al Mahhar Holding, Beema and Qatar Insurance were among the gainers in the main market. The Gulf institutions’ net buying declined substantially to QR1.99mn compared to QR11.81mn the previous day. The local individual investors’ net buying weakened significantly to QR3.46mn against QR11.65mn on September 3. The Arab retail investors’ net buying shrank noticeably to QR5.24mn compared to QR10.86mn on Wednesday. However, the domestic funds’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR9.07mn against QR8.63mn the previous day. The foreign retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR4.04mn compared with net sellers of QR0.66mn on September 3. The Gulf individual investors’ net buying increased perceptibly to QR2.92mn against QR0.77mn on Wednesday. The foreign institutions’ net profit booking shrank markedly to QR26.72mn compared to QR43.06mn the previous day. The Arab institutions had no major net exposure for the fourth straight session. The main market saw a 5% jump in trade volumes to 140.8mn shares and 6% in value to QR426.98mn but on 34% shrinkage in deals to 20,093. In the venture market, a total of 0.08mn equities valued at QR0.22mn changed hands across 22 transactions.