tag

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Honeywell Technologies have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on establishing an integrated manufacturing and service hub in Qatar's free zones, with the aim of advancing local capabilities across mission-critical industries.The MoU was signed by HE Chief Executive Officer of QFZ Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani, and Matt Spalding, Vice President, Process Technology at Honeywell Technologies, on the sidelines of Qatar Economic Forum: UNGA Special Edition 2026. The signing was attended by senior executives from QFZ and Honeywell Technologies.QFZ said in a statement on Wednesday that the hub will focus on the machining and servicing of Honeywell Technologies Sundyne pumps used across energy and process industries, supporting customers in Qatar, the wider Middle East and Africa.The MoU also creates opportunities for wider cooperation across Honeywell Technologies’ portfolio, including process technology, automation, cybersecurity and building automation solutions. The collaboration will further support ecosystem development by encouraging relevant partners and suppliers to explore opportunities to establish their presence in QFZ, while also engaging with research and academic institutions to launch new initiatives that help strengthen local capabilities and develop Qatari talent.HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal Al-Thani said the partnership would deepen Qatar's industrial ecosystem by expanding localized manufacturing, servicing and automation capabilities. He highlighted QFZ's integrated platform, strategic connectivity and investor ecosystem as a strong foundation for scaling these capabilities in support of the Third National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030.For his part, Matt Spalding said Honeywell was committed to advancing initiatives that localize innovative technologies across mission-critical industries and support Qatar's industrial growth and national development objectives. He added that the partnership would help customers across the Middle East and Africa improve efficiency, resilience and operational intelligence through advanced process solutions, while strengthening service delivery and developing manufacturing capabilities in Qatar.Through strategic partnerships, QFZ continues to create pathways for advanced manufacturing, technology and industrial innovation across its free zones. These efforts reinforce QFZ’s value proposition for investors while supporting localization, sustainable growth and the continued development of Qatar’s competitive industrial ecosystem. 

The Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah International Energy Awards for Lifetime Achievement will return on October 20, bringing together more than 300 senior executives, policymakers, diplomats and thought leaders at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.Organised by the Al-Attiyah Foundation, the annual awards recognise exceptional contributions to the global energy industry and sustainable development.Eight individuals will receive accolades at this year’s ceremony, including the inaugural recipient of the Young Energy Leader Award. The new category acknowledges two emerging leaders whose achievements, vision and influence are helping to shape the future of the energy sector.The other six categories recognise lifetime achievement across a range of fields. Their recipients have made sustained contributions to advancing the energy industry, strengthening international cooperation and supporting progress towards a more secure and sustainable energy future. The awards embody the vision and legacy of the late His Excellency Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Industry. His distinguished career and leadership played a central role in establishing Qatar as one of the world’s foremost energy producers.The 2026 ceremony will be the first held under the chairmanship of Dr Saud bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, chairman of the Al-Attiyah Foundation. Dr Saud is committed to preserving the legacy established by his late father while building upon it to further develop the foundation and expand its contribution to international dialogue on energy and sustainable development.Since its establishment in 2015, the Al-Attiyah Foundation has become a respected independent platform for knowledge exchange and informed discussion. Through its research publications, CEO Roundtables, podcasts, webinars, and other high-level events, the foundation provides analysis and insights into the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the global energy sector.The 2026 Awards are sponsored by ExxonMobil. The foundation’s work and continued are supported of its member organisations, including QatarEnergy, QNB, Shell, ConocoPhillips, Marubeni, Sasol, JTA Holding, Qatar Cool, and the Qatar Free Zones Authority. 

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani held a meeting with Chinese ambassador Cao Xiaolin on Monday to discuss bilateral co-operation in the field of investment attraction between Qatar and China.The meeting also highlighted the investment opportunities and outstanding benefits offered by QFZ and supported by the country’s advanced infrastructure. The visit was followed by an introductory tour in the Business Innovation Park at Ras Bufontas Free Zone. 

Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, the chief executive officer of the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), recently held a meeting with Syahda Guruh Langkah Samudera, the ambassador of Indonesia to Qatar.  During the meeting, they discussed bilateral co-operation in the fields of free zones and investment between the two countries.  The meeting also highlighted the investment opportunities and outstanding benefits offered by QFZ and supported by the country’s advanced infrastructure.  The meeting was attended by senior officials from QFZ and was followed by an introductory tour in the Business Innovation Park at Ras Bufontas Free Zone.

The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting investors and enabling business continuity throughout its ecosystem, as part of the country’s coordinated national response to ongoing regional developments.Building on Qatar’s comprehensive package of targeted relief measures, the QFZ has implemented a range of financial, operational, and advisory support initiatives designed to sustain investor confidence and enable continued growth within its free zones.“Our investors remain at the center of our priorities. The measures we have implemented reflect the strength and responsiveness of our ecosystem, and our deep commitment to ensuring business continuity and sustained growth under all circumstances," said Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Bin Faisal al-Thani, chief executive officer of the QFZ.In support of these initiatives, the QFZ has introduced a suite of measures developed with national stakeholders, including streamlined customs procedures, fast-track coordination mechanisms, and dedicated support channels.Together, these measures ensure seamless transit, efficient re-export of goods, and uninterrupted business continuity for its investor base, which now exceeds 800 companies from more than 60 countries.The QFZ is also implementing flexible support measures for investors, including waivers and deferrals in eligible cases, to assist businesses in maintaining momentum and continuity."Aligned with Qatar’s coordinated national approach, we continue to provide a stable and supportive environment where our investors have the clarity and flexibility needed to navigate evolving conditions with confidence,” Sheikh Mohammed said.The QFZ continues to play a key role in advancing Qatar’s economic diversification by providing world-class infrastructure, strategic connectivity, and an investor-centric ecosystem for high-value industries. 

CEO of Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani met on Thursday with ambassador of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the State of Qatar, Dr Ashraf Khodjaev, reports QNA. During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation in investment attraction between the two countries. The meeting also highlighted the investment opportunities and outstanding benefits offered by Qatar's free zones to attract Uzbek companies to invest and establish their businesses in Qatar. The meeting was attended by senior officials from QFZ and was followed by an introductory tour of the Business Innovation Park at Ras Bufontas Free Zone. 

CEO of the Qatar Free Zones Authority, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, recently met with Minister of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Panama, Julio Molto at Ras Bufontas Free Zone, reports QNA. The meeting reviewed ways to enhance co-operation and exchange expertise in trade and investment between the two countries. Investment opportunities and the exceptional advantages offered by Qatar's free zones, supported by the country's advanced infrastructure, were also presented. 

His Excellency CEO of the Qatar Free Zones (QFZ) Authority Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani said that Qatar National Day is a cherished national occasion to recall the values upon which the State of Qatar was founded, the values of faith, responsibility, and hard work, adding that these are the same principles that today guide the country towards achieving comprehensive development and enhancing its position on the global arena.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of the country's National Day, Sheikh Mohammed extended his warm congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the leader and patron of Qatar's advancement, and to His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, whose foresighted vision laid the foundations for the country's development and put it on path towards a bright future.He added that recalling the role of the Founder Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani is not merely a remembrance of the founding history, but a reminder of today's responsibility towards the future, adding that loyalty and belonging in the context of institutions and the economy mean converting the national vision into tangible outcomes, which include quality investments, sustainable job opportunities, a diversified economy, and international leadership supported by trust and achievement.He noted that the authority continues to perform its role as a catalyst for the growth of value-added sectors, in line with the objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) and the Third National Development Strategy, particularly with regard to attracting foreign direct investment, developing human capital, and achieving environmental and economic sustainability.On a personal level, he said that Qatar National Day is a moment to reflect on and assess institutional responsibility in achieving real economic impact, and evaluating the extent of actual contribution to supporting the stability of the state and its sustainable growth, adding that it is also an occasion to renew the collective commitment to diligent, results-driven work that befits the aspirations of the nation and its leadership.Regarding the QFZ's most prominent achievements in 2025, he said that the authority continued its role in supporting the transition towards a diversified, knowledge-based economy, thanks to an investment base of more than 800 companies licensed in the free zones, providing over 12,000 jobs, with cumulative investments approaching $5bn by the end of 2025.He pointed out that this year marked a shift from attracting investments to operating advanced industrial and technological facilities.In the aviation sector, the Safran Group opened its regional office in the free zones in cooperation with Qatar Airways, enhancing the country's capabilities in aircraft engine maintenance and data analytics.In the logistics sector, FedEx Logistics opened a new facility at the Ras Bufontas Free Zone, thus, strengthening Qatar's position as a key hub for international trade and supply chains.For its part, Alfardan Automotive inaugurated an advanced logistics centre in Umm Alhoul Free Zone.In the maritime sector, the MARSA port project in Umm Alhoul Free Zone was advanced through the signing of two memorandums of understanding (MoUs), with Feadship, and with Marina Port Vell, enhancing Qatar's position as a regional hub for maritime services, marine industries, and luxury yachts.The QFZ also signed strategic agreements with global partners, most notably a strategic MoU with WuXi Biologics, the leading Chinese international company in biologics research, development, and manufacturing, an important step aimed at strengthening Qatar's pharmaceutical ecosystem, driving research, development, and innovation in this field, and cooperating in the local manufacturing of biologic products.QFZ's co-operation in 2025 also included signing an agreement with Samsung C&T Corporation to implement innovative projects in renewable energy and low-carbon digital infrastructure, as well as an MoU with Russia's BIOCAD to develop biologics research, development, and manufacturing facilities.At the local level, the Authority signed an agreement with Jusour to support training national talents to meet the needs of advanced sectors in the free zones.Regarding new projects supporting digital transformation and contributing to the growth of the emerging technology sector, he said that the QFZ continues to enable the state's digital transformation by developing advanced technological infrastructure that enhances the local economy's readiness for next-generation applications.The year 2025 has been pivotal in this regard, with the free zones witnessing an expansion in the presence of global and local digital companies, in addition to the growth of cloud infrastructure and data centres, he noted.The Google Cloud Center of Excellence emerged as one of the key pillars in building digital capabilities, offering specialised training programs this year in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics, contributing to the development of national talent and support for the private sector.The free zones also saw digital companies such as Kingdee, Quantiphi, and Qcloud expand data centre capabilities in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, as part of building an integrated digital ecosystem that supports artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, forming a foundation for emerging technologies.Digital transformation also strengthens joint projects with Samsung C&T Corporation, which combine digital innovation and sustainability through the development of smart energy solutions and low-carbon infrastructure.Technological advancement has extended to the maritime sector, where the MARSA port project introduced advanced digital systems for marina management and marine maintenance, an initiative showcased during the QFZ's participation in the Monaco Yacht Show 2025.These initiatives contribute to supporting the implementation of Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030 and consolidating the position of the free zones as a leading platform for innovation and advanced technologies in the region.Regarding QFZ's key strategic priorities for the coming year, His Excellency said that the authority will focus on developing a more flexible and competitive investment ecosystem that supports achieving the targets of the Third National Development Strategy to reach $100bn in foreign direct investment over the coming years.The QFZ's priorities include enhancing the regulatory environment through the development of a dual licensing model, which allows companies to operate in the free zones and the local market through an integrated operational mechanism, enabling greater flexibility in expansion, production, and export.The Authority is also working to enhance its investment services by simplifying procedures, expanding digital services, and improving investor experience from establishment through to operation.As part of strengthening national competitiveness, QFZ is focusing on reinforcing economic and logistical integration between the free zones and national infrastructure at ports and the airport, creating a coherent operational network that facilitates the movement of goods and supports companies' expansion into regional and global markets.The authority also seeks to develop a regulatory and operational framework that enables investors to establish centres of excellence and research and development facilities in the free zones, in co-operation with universities and national institutions. This aims to enhance innovation, link future industries with applied research, and create high-quality job opportunities for Qatari talent.Sustainability remains a central pillar in the coming year's plans, adopting low-carbon energy solutions, enhancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, and ensuring that new projects align with the state's goals of improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.He concluded his statement to QNA by saying that these priorities aim to enhance the ability of the free zones to attract high-value investments, expand their contribution to driving economic growth, and consolidate the position of the State of Qatar as a leading global destination for investment and innovation.

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and DHL Global Forwarding have officially inaugurated the group’s new logistics facility at Ras Bufontas Free Zone.The inauguration marks an important expansion of DHL’s presence in Qatar and reinforces Qatar’s free zones status as a premier destination for global logistics operators.The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani, chairman of both Al Faisal Holding and the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA), and shareholder of DHL Global Forwarding Qatar; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani, CEO of QFZ; and Samer Kaissi, CEO – Gulf Cluster, DHL Global Forwarding.The new DHL Global Forwarding facility spans more than 1,200sq m and will serve as a regional distribution warehouse specialising in air freight consolidation services, supporting both regional and global distribution networks. Strategically located within proximity to Hamad International Airport, the facility is ideally positioned to capitalise on Qatar’s world-class transport infrastructure and streamlined customs processing.The facility further strengthens Qatar’s appeal as a competitive base for high-value logistics operations. DHL Global Forwarding will offer a suite of services from the new facility, including air, sea and land logistics services, marine shipping agent operations, general warehousing, and customs brokerage.Sheikh Mohammed said: “The inauguration of DHL Global Forwarding in Ras Bufontas Free Zone reflects a strategic step to reinforce Qatar’s stature as a high-value logistics hub, reducing time to markets and enhancing the supply chain flexibility across the region.“As a global logistics leader, DHL will improve the operational capacity, enhance specialised warehousing capabilities, and reinforce multimodal connectivity, benefiting from the proximity to Hamad International Airport, and creating an attractive footprint for partners and suppliers across various economic sectors.”He added: “This investment will also drive our transition from a transit hub to an integrated solutions platform supported by a flexible regulatory framework and advanced digital infrastructure, ensuring new growth prospects and connecting the region to markets in Africa and Asia.”Kaissi said: “Qatar plays a key role in our regional logistics strategy, particularly as we expand our multimodal capabilities across the GCC. Hamad Port has long been a vital part of our network, supporting east-west trade flows. Thanks to our collaboration with the Qatar Free Zones Authority, we now also benefit from improved connectivity to the Hamad International Airport.“With our new facility in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, located close to the airport, we are enhancing our airfreight capabilities, which enable us to deliver even more resilient and scalable logistics solutions, especially for the growing GCC-Africa corridors. This provides us with enhanced flexibility and continuity across critical sectors such as life sciences, energy, and e-commerce.”QFZ remains committed to accelerating Qatar’s logistics growth and enabling strategic investment that aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning the state as a hub for sustainable, innovation-led industrial activity.

The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Marina Port Vell Barcelona, one of the world's leading superyacht destinations and a luxury maritime leader, to jointly develop the Marsa Maritime ecosystem into a premier hub for high-end yachting operations.The partnership aims to attract top-tier vessels, leading service providers, and international maritime expertise, bolstering Qatar's position in the global superyacht industry, QFZ said in a statement Saturday.The MoU was signed by CEO of QFZ, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani and CEO of Marina Port Vell Barcelona, Ignacio Erroz on the sidelines of the 34th Monaco Yacht Show.Under the MoU, Marina Port Vell Barcelona will provide advisory and consultancy support, leveraging its extensive knowledge of superyacht port requirements and experience managing dedicated infrastructure for high-end vessels. The partnership will also explore opportunities to position Qatar and Marsa Maritime as a regional hub for custom yacht operations by fostering connections between yacht owners, industry professionals, and Qatar's world-class facilities.Sheikh Mohammed stated: "This strategic partnership with Marina Port Vell Barcelona represents an important step in QFZ's journey to redefine the luxury maritime landscape. With world-class facilities and advanced technologies, we are positioning Marsa as the Gulf's newest hub for superyachts, service providers, and global investors, driving innovation and setting new standards in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030."As per the MoU, Marina Port Vell Barcelona directors may engage in select high-level events in Qatar, reinforcing their commitment to the development of a robust maritime ecosystem and promoting Marsa Maritime as a premier destination for the global yachting community.Ignacio Erroz said: "We are proud to collaborate with QFZ in shaping the future of Marsa Maritime, a project with exceptional potential in Qatar's growing market. By sharing our expertise and engaging with yacht owners and professionals worldwide, we aim to support Marsa's emergence as a premier hub for luxury yachting in the region." Anchored in the heart of Umm Alhoul Free Zone and just 20 minutes from Doha's city centre, Marsa Maritime is uniquely positioned beside Hamad Port, one of the largest greenfield seaports, enabling it to serve as a base for diverse marine activities. From vessel maintenance and repair to interior design, provisions supply, safety training, brokerage, and maritime research, Marsa offers unparalleled opportunities for international companies seeking to access Qatar's thriving market and the wider region.

The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Feadship, the world-renowned Dutch builder of custom superyachts, to explore collaboration in marine infrastructure, design, and sector engagement.The MoU, signed during the 34th Monaco Yacht Show, reflects a shared vision to develop Marsa Port at Umm Alhoul Free Zone into a premier superyacht destination in the Gulf, fostering excellence across maintenance, refit, provisioning, and owner experiences.The MoU, seen as a strategic move that underscores Qatar’s growing role in the global superyacht industry, was formalised by QFZ CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani and Feadship chief commercial officer Bas Nederpelt.Under the MoU, Feadship will provide advisory support to QFZ’s leadership on the development of world-class maintenance, repair, and refit (MRR) facilities, while also contributing to broader initiatives to enhance Qatar’s role in custom yacht design and luxury maritime innovation.Sheikh Mohammed said, “Qatar is becoming a global hub for the superyacht community, driven by world-class infrastructure and a market forecast to grow 7.4% annually through 2030. With the highest ownership per capita in the region, our partnership with Feadship advances our ambition to make Marsa the Gulf’s leading superyacht destination - creating lasting value for investors, owners, and the maritime sector.”Beyond port infrastructure, the collaboration opens new avenues for global engagement through high-level events, knowledge sharing, and owner experiences that will draw international attention to Qatar’s evolving marine sector.Nederpelt said, “Feadship welcomes the opportunity to explore this collaboration with QFZ. We recognise Qatar’s ambition to develop Marsa Port as a destination for the superyacht community and are pleased to contribute in an advisory capacity as part of this exploratory partnership. This MoU reflects our shared commitment to knowledge exchange and dialogue, ensuring that any future steps are aligned with the highest standards of our industry.”The partnership is part of QFZ’s broader strategy to create a future-focused, sustainable marine cluster that attracts leading global players, enhances the Gulf region’s luxury offerings, and places Qatar firmly on the global superyacht map.

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Bin Yousef Cargo have announced the official opening of a new warehouse facility at Ras Bufontas Free Zone.The facility underscores the shared commitment of both entities to strengthening Qatar’s position as a pivotal hub for regional and global supply chain and logistics.Marking a significant milestone in Bin Yousef Cargo’s expansion strategy, the facility has already completed its first shipment. Strategically located near the award-winning Hamad International Airport and Hamad Port, it offers seamless connectivity to major transportation routes, enabling Bin Yousef Cargo to deliver efficient, integrated logistics and distribution solutions to its clients.In addition to its prime location, the facility provides a comprehensive suite of value-added services, including custom packaging, inventory management, and order fulfilment, tailored to meet the needs of businesses across diverse industries in Qatar and the wider region.Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, the facility ensures optimal operational efficiency and top-tier service standards, reinforcing Bin Yousef Cargo’s position as a trusted logistics partner committed to excellence and innovation.Operating within Qatar’s free zones enables Bin Yousef Cargo to deliver cost-efficient solutions through competitive pricing and flexible terms, supporting clients in optimising their logistics costs.Customers also stand to benefit from streamlined customs procedures and duty exemptions on transshipments, simplifying trade operations and providing regulatory advantages that enhance ease of doing business in the region.Abdulla Hamad al-Binali, acting chief operating officer at QFZ, said: “The opening of Bin Yousef Cargo’s state-of-the-art facility in Qatar’s free zones is a strategic step that reflects QFZ’s commitment to enhancing the competitiveness of the logistics sector and expanding our network of partnerships with top logistics solutions providers.“We are committed to empowering businesses with competitive advantages, world-class infrastructure, and integrated logistical connectivity that provides an ideal environment for growth and expansion. The addition of Bin Yousef Cargo’s advanced facility to our ecosystem reinforces our role as a catalyst for trade excellence in the region.”Jiju Haneef, director, Cargo Operations at Bin Yousef Cargo, said: “The launch of our Qatar’s free zones warehouse and the successful execution of our maiden shipment represent a strategic leap forward in our mission to provide world-class logistics solutions.“This facility strengthens our ability to offer enhanced services, cost efficiencies, and regulatory benefits to our clients. We are proud to contribute to Qatar’s vision of becoming a global logistics hub and look forward to supporting businesses with unmatched agility and reliability.”QFZ remains committed to accelerating Qatar’s logistics growth and enabling strategic investments that align with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3), positioning the country as a hub for sustainable, innovation-led industrial activity.