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Commercial Bank has launched Qatar’s first Metaverse-enabled ‘Auto Marketplace’ on the CBQ Mobile App.Through this innovation, customers can now explore a fully interactive, virtual showroom directly from their smartphones.Using Meta Quest (Oculus) virtual reality (VR) headsets, they can immerse themselves in a 3D environment, where detailed digital models bring each vehicle to life.Beyond exploration, customers can also schedule test drives and apply for vehicle loans from the app, completing their car-buying journey with ease and convenience.Shahnawaz Rashid, Executive General Manager and Head of Retail Banking at Commercial Bank, said: “This launch marks another step in redefining what modern banking can offer. By introducing the Metaverse to our Auto Marketplace, we have reimagined the way customers discover, experience, and purchase cars.“At Commercial Bank, our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and so we continue to lead the way in driving meaningful digital innovation across Qatar’s financial landscape.”As a recognised leader in digital banking innovation, Commercial Bank continues to pioneer technologies that enhance customer experiences and redefine banking in Qatar and the region. From introducing the latest in digital banking solutions to continuously enhancing customer experiences through biometric verification and real-time fraud protection, Commercial Bank consistently delivers services that blend security with convenience.With the introduction of Qatar’s first Metaverse-enabled Auto Marketplace, Commercial Bank once again leverages its award-winning mobile application to demonstrate its forward-thinking approach, merging immersive technology with financial services to create more intuitive, connected, and engaging customer journeys.This latest innovation reinforces the bank’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, empowering individuals and businesses alike in a rapidly evolving financial landscape and underscores its role as a driving force in digital transformation across Qatar’s banking sector. 

Qatar Chamber and QNB Group recently signed a sponsorship agreement for the Commercial and Industrial Directory 2025, under which QNB will support the directory as ‘Strategic Partner’.The partnership is part of the bank’s firm commitment to supporting the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) sector and economic diversification to achieve sustainable growth in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.It also reflects the successful partnership between both organisations to drive digitalisation and enhance transparency and efficiency in the markets, in accordance with best practices.The directory aims to support Qatar’s business community by enhancing communication between business owners and companies operating across various commercial and industrial sectors. It provides comprehensive contact information and includes updated data for companies registered with Qatar Chamber.The publication is expected to be released next month in both Arabic and English. It will be made available to the local and international business community through a printed edition, as well as the directory’s website.Qatar Chamber acting general manager Ali Bu Sherbak al-Mansouri thanked QNB for supporting the directory, noting that this reflects the bank’s vital role in promoting economic development and supporting the private sector.He said the co-operation highlights the commitment of both sides to improving the business environment and providing updated tools and reliable information that help identify investment opportunities and enable companies to reach new partners locally and internationally.Al-Mansouri added that the directory serves as an important reference for companies and investors, showcasing Qatar’s diverse economic sectors. He stressed that QNB’s support demonstrates its strong commitment to fostering investment, enhancing transparency, and facilitating access to information.The directory is one of the chamber’s most important publications supporting the private sector, as it provides updated data on the commercial and industrial companies registered with the Chamber, offering a comprehensive reference for all business owners and investors.QNB Group stands among the leading financial institutions in the Middle East and Africa region and is recognised as one of the most valuable banking brands in the market. The group operates in 28 countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa, offering tailored products and services powered by innovation. Supported by a dedicated team of over 31,000 professionals, QNB Group continues to drive banking excellence worldwide. 

Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani has affirmed the strength of the historic relations between the Arab world and the UK, particularly in the commercial, economic, and investment fields.Sheikh Khalifa, who is also the first vice president of the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), was the guest of honour of the ABCC’s 50th anniversary, where he lauded the chamber as a “distinguished institution”.“For five decades, the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce has served as a cornerstone in strengthening commercial and economic ties between Great Britain and the Arab world,” said Sheikh Khalifa.He noted that the Arab-British partnership, “built on principles of trust, mutual respect, and shared interests”, has played a vital role in reinforcing bridges of communication and cooperation between the two sides.Sheikh Khalifa also underscored the significant role played by the private sector in deepening strategic partnerships and contributing to economic and social development that benefits future generations.“The vital role of Arab investments in the UK, alongside the contributions of British companies through their expertise in the development of projects in our region, reflects the strength and resilience of our trade and economic partnership,” he said.The celebration was attended by Qatar Chamber board member Rashid bin Nasser al-Kaabi and ABCC interim secretary general and CEO Rita Massoud, as well as heads of Arab chambers and Arab and British business leaders. 

The Japanese fruits tasting event in Doha on December 8 provided an opportunity for visitors to experience the exceptional quality of Japan’s premium seasonal produce, while strengthening cultural and commercial ties with Qatar.The event, organised by the Japanese embassy in Qatar over two days, showcased a curated selection of high-end Japanese fruits sourced from various prefectures across Japan. It highlighted the sophistication of Japanese agriculture and reflects the growing interest in deepening bilateral relations between the two countries through food, culture, and trade.**media[392134]**The first day of the event took place at the Four Seasons Doha, where business leaders, diplomats, and select guests gathered for an intimate tasting session. Japanese ambassador Naoto Hisajima guided guests through the tasting experience while explaining the unique cultivation methods behind Japanese fruits. “To introduce high-quality products from Japan will surely lead to a better and deeper understanding of Japanese culture and society among the people in Qatar,” he told Gulf Times.The envoy added that Japanese fruits, grown with meticulous care by dedicated farmers, offer more than flavour alone: “Through the tasting of fruits, people in Qatar will know Japan in a deeper way.”Speaking about the local market, Hisajima expressed optimism, saying: “I believe people in Qatar will love Japanese fruits. They are sweet, complex in taste, and good for health. I hope and I am sure that more Japanese fruits will be available in Qatar so everyone can enjoy them”.**media[392133]**Yusuke Ito, representative of Musashi International, a Japanese food ingredients distributor operating in Qatar since 2007, underlined the craftsmanship behind the produce. “Japanese fruits come from many different prefectures, each with unique weather conditions. We spend a lot of time and effort growing them, which is why their shape, presentation, and taste are distinctive,” he said.Ito noted that while Japanese fruits are still relatively unknown in the Qatari market, their premium quality presents strong potential. “Because they are unique and not common, they can become special gifts in Qatar. That is where we see real opportunity,” he added.

The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) at Qatar Chamber recently participated in the first edition of the ‘Muscat Arbitration Days’ conference, organised by the Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre in Muscat.Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali al-Thani, QICCA vice-chairman, spoke at the second panel session titled ‘Stronger Together – Building a Unified Regional Arbitration Ecosystem’, where he reviewed the stages of arbitration development in Qatar.He emphasised the strategic importance of unifying efforts and exchanging best practices among arbitration centres in the GCC, noting that such cooperation would accelerate the adjustment of policies and procedures and enhance the region’s appeal as a reliable and effective destination for resolving commercial disputes at the international level.The session, which featured prominent speakers and representatives from the Saudi Centre for Commercial Arbitration, the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution, and the Commercial Arbitration Centre for the GCC, discussed ways to strengthen co-operation among GCC arbitration centres to create a more coherent and robust arbitration environment that meets the aspirations of the business and investment communities across the region.On the sidelines of the conference, QICCA and the Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance co-operation in developing arbitration, conciliation, and dispute-resolution mechanisms.The MoU aims to exchange expertise and knowledge, jointly promote services, and organise joint events and training programmes, thereby benefiting practitioners and users of arbitration services in both countries and the region.It reflects the shared vision between the two centres and reinforces the pioneering role of GCC countries in creating an integrated arbitration ecosystem that supports the business environment, keeps pace with global economic developments, and strengthens the region’s position as a vital hub for trade and investment. 

Qatar's commercial banks witnessed a 6.3% year-on-year jump in total assets to QR2.13tn in October 2025, according to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) data.Domestic assets amounted to QR1.82tn or 85% of the total assets of the commercial banks and foreign assets stood at QR0.31tn or 15% of the total in the review period.Total domestic credit rose 5.1% year-on-year to QR1.36tn at the end of October 2025, the central bank said on X. The commercial banks' overseas credit amounted to QR65.15bn in the review period.Private sector credit stood at QR955.58bn (67% of the total credit), public sector credit amounted to QR462.84bn (32%) and credit facilities to non-banking financial institutions were QR9.79bn at the end of October 2025.Of the QR955.58bn private sector credit, the commercial banks' domestic credit amounted to QR918.55bn and outside Qatar amounted to QR37.03bn in the review period.In the case of public sector, the commercial banks' domestic credit amounted to QR436.84bn and outside Qatar stood at QR25.99bn in October 2025.Of the total QR1.36tn domestic credit from the commercial banks, services received QR471.89bn, real estate (QR267.51bn), trading (QR216.43bn), consumption loans (QR182.45bn), government (QR157.93bn), industry (QR27.47bn) and contractors (QR36.8bn) in the review period.The commercial lenders' other assets stood at QR49.2bn with inside Qatar at QR39.55bn and outside the country at QR9.66bn at the end of October 2025.The commercial banks' securities portfolio stood at QR339.91bn with debt securities at QR199.34bn and sukuk at QR133.61bn in October this year.Of the QR339.91bn total securities portfolio, domestic portfolio stood at QR299.41bn and outside Qatar at QR40.5bn during the review period.Of the QR199.34bn debt securities, those issued by governments amounted to QR125.23bn, banks at QR10.61bn and others at QR62.95bn. In the case of sukuks, those issued by government stood at QR117.63bn, banks at QR10.31bn and others at QR5.67bn at the end of October 2025.The banks' investments in subsidiaries and associated amounted to QR53.2bn with inside Qatar at QR7.09bn and outside the country at QR46.11bn at the end of October 2025.Total domestic deposits were up 0.9% year-on-year to QR850.23bn in the review period. Of which, personal deposits stood at QR278.26bn, government institutions' at QR190.01bn, private sector at QR193.52bn, semi-government entities' at QR44.06bn and non-banking financial institutions at QR14.17bn in October 2025.Broad money supply (M2) rose 0.9% year-on-year to QR740.3bn in October 2025. 

QNB has become the first Qatari bank to launch Mastercard virtual card numbers (VCN) for corporate clients to enable companies to create single-use or multi-use virtual cards with predefined limits, specific usage timeframes, and merchant category controls, showcasing its commitment to providing its clients with the highest levels of banking experience. A signing ceremony was recently held between senior executives from QNB and Mastercard to commemorate the launch and formalise the new partnership between the two organisations. The landmark launch reinforces QNB’s leadership in the commercial payments space and highlights its strategic role in redefining how businesses in Qatar manage, control, and optimise their financial operations. The agreement aims to bring further advancements and greater benefits to QNB’s corporate cardholders through innovative payment solutions and enhanced digital capabilities, marking a significant milestone in its mission to modernise corporate payments and strengthen the country’s transition toward a cashless, digitally enabled economy in line with the Economic Development pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030. **media[382835]** With Mastercard generating the virtual cards, the bank is introducing a new level of efficiency and transparency to business payments, replacing manual processes and paper-based instruments as QNB issues virtual card numbers instantly, offering convenience, security, and flexibility. Through this platform, QNB enables companies to create virtual cards with simple steps through the integration of Mastercard’s innovative VCN platform with corporate approval workflows, giving organisations real-time visibility and control over every transaction. By digitising payments that were traditionally executed via cheques and wire transfers, Mastercard is enhancing security, simplifying reconciliation, and supporting better working capital management through flexible settlement periods. Businesses benefit from up to 55 days of interest-free grace period offered by QNB, streamlined reconciliation, and the ability to automate recurring supplier and operational payments — all contributing to greater liquidity and operational agility. Businesses will also benefit from QNB’s ‘SmartData’ expense management tools, which provides a unified experience for virtual card generation, reporting, and analytics, with QNB issuing Mastercard-generated cards.

As United Arab Bank (UAB) marks its 50th anniversary, Commercial Bank extended its heartfelt congratulations and joined the celebration at the gala dinner in the Museum of The Future, UAE.Key attendees included Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor al-Thani, Chairman of Commercial Bank and Director as well as Member of the Board Risk and Compliance Committee at UAB; Omar Hussain Ibrahim Alfardan, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Commercial Bank and Vice-Chairman, Chairman of the Board Governance & Renumeration Committee of UAB; Stephen Moss, Group CEO of Commercial Bank, Director, Member of the Board Credit Committee, Member of the Board Audit Committee, Member of the Board Governance and Remuneration Committee at UAB; Fahad Badar, Executive General Manager, Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer of Commercial Bank as well as Director and Member of Board Credit Committee and Member of Board Risk and Compliance Committee at UAB.Since its establishment in 1975, UAB has played a central role in shaping UAE’s banking sector, offering world-class corporate and retail services. In 2007, Commercial Bank became a strategic partner with the acquisition of a 40% stake, marking the first partnership between Qatar and the UAE.Over the years, UAB has expanded its presence and continued to elevate customer experience. This partnership stands as a testament to how regional collaboration can drive progress, inspire excellence, and set new benchmarks across the Gulf.“When institutions share a mutual ambition, they have the power to advance the financial industry and shape a stronger regional future. This is how great achievements are built, and more importantly, sustained. At Commercial Bank, we value partnerships founded on collaboration and trust. For decades, United Arab Bank has demonstrated a commitment that aligns closely with ours.“Today, as it marks 50 years of achievement and leadership in the UAE, we celebrate its inspiring journey and enduring legacy,” said Sheikh Abdulla bin Ali bin Jabor al-Thani.Through this long-term partnership, Commercial Bank looks ahead with confidence as it continues to support UAB’s growth and advancing collaboration across the region’s financial landscape.

Aiming to acquire global insights, play a role in policy discussions, and strengthen its international credibility, Commercial Bank has participated in the 2025 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Institute of International Finance (IIF) in Washington, DC.The reception, hosted by the Qatari Banks on October 15 was attended by HE the Minister of Finance, Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari; HE the Governor of Qatar Central Bank, Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud al-Thani; as well as Board members, CEOs and senior executives of Qatari banks.Commercial Bank was represented at these meetings by Board Member, Mohamad Ismail Mandani al-Emadi; Group CEO, Stephen Moss; Executive General Manager and Chief Marketing Officer, Eiman al-Naemi; Executive General Manager, Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer, Fahad Badar; Executive General Manager, Treasury and Investments, Parvez Khan; and Senior AGM and Head of ALM, Omran al-Sherawi.Throughout these meetings, Commercial Bank explored new business opportunities and strengthened relationships with leading banks across the region and globally, showcasing its leadership in digital innovation.Moss noted: “The innovative solutions we introduce and steps we take to support the growth of Qatar’s financial sector are further strengthened by the knowledge and connections we gain at the annual IMF and IIF meetings. These gatherings give us access to best practices and insights that we bring back home to Qatar and implement in the best way possible.”

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met in Washington with his Liberian counterpart Sara Beysolow Nyanti to discuss deepening US-Liberia bilateral relations and expanding US commercial engagement in Liberia.  In a statement, the US State Department said that Rubio and Nyanti explored avenues for expanding US participation in Liberia's critical minerals sector with the aim of creating jobs and economic growth in both the United States and Liberia.

The Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) at Qatar Chamber recently concluded the 'Qualification and Preparation of Arbitrators Programme,' held in cooperation with Qatar University's (QU) Centre for Continuing Education. The program, which was held at QU's headquarters, aimed to prepare and qualify Qatari personnel through a scientific and training curriculum focussed on arbitration. The program included five stages covering the concept of commercial arbitration and its practical applications, arbitration case management procedures, drafting arbitration awards and their key components, and practical training, including a mock trial with the participation of all trainees. Graduation certificates were handed over to the 25 trainees who completed the fifth stage of the programme, under the title 'Practical Trial.'

The GCC Statistical Center revealed in a report on Monday that the total assets of commercial banks in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries increased by 10 percent in 2024, reaching approximately USD 3.5 trillion, compared to 2023.The report mentioned that the total deposits in these banks amounted to about USD 2.1 trillion in 2024, showing a 9.6 percent increase compared to 2023.The report also highlighted the rise in total loans provided by the banks, reaching nearly USD 2.1 trillion in 2024, an increase of 9.9 percent over 2023, with the private sector accounting for about 80.7 percent of the total loans.The statistics from the GCC Statistical Center showed a decline in the non-performing loan ratios across the GCC countries during the period from 2020 to 2024, with a noticeable variation in the loan-to-deposit ratios, ranging between 66 percent and 125 percent.Regarding capital adequacy, the GCC countries maintained high levels, surpassing the minimum threshold set by the Basel III Committee of 8 percent, with ratios ranging between 17.8 percent and 32 percent in 2024.On the financial performance front, commercial banks in the GCC countries witnessed significant growth in their net profits over the past four years, surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels.