Business & Economy in Qatar: Autumn 2023

Business & Economy in Qatar

Banking and Finance

• Useful Numbers: Banks and Exchange Houses

• Currency • The Banking Sector

• The Banking Network in Qatar

• Qatar Central Bank

• Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates

• Financial Services and Insurance

Economy

• Accounts

• Islamic Finance

• Qatar Credit Bureau

• Economic Growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) • Trade Surplus

• The Budget

• Inflation and Cost of Living

• Population and the Labour Force

Commerce Useful Numbers

Investment and Trade

• Incentives

• Investment Regulations

• Company Structures

• Intellectual Property

• Choosing a Business Structure

• Commercial Registration

• Export and Import

• Taxation

• Regulatory Bodies and Government‑owned Entities

• Qatar Financial Centre

• Qatar Exchange

• Real Estate

• Developers and Real Estate Agents Selling Property

• Business Etiquette

The Hydrocarbon Industry

• Qatar’s Energy Companies

• International Companies

Infrastructure in Qatar

An overview of local infrastructure, ongoing megaprojects and new developments.

Feature – New Year, New Buildings

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) in Qatar has announced the launch of 22 new projects worth a whopping QAR4.1 bn (USD1.12 bn).

Feature – The Ports of Qatar

Business and Economy Business and Economy

Qatar has invested heavily in the development of its world class ports. To showcase that development and the maritime history of Qatar, Mwani Qatar has opened the new Hamad Port Visitors Centre.

Founder & Managing Editor

Hilary Bainbridge

Editorial

Sarah Palmer (Editor)

Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)

Terry Sutcliffe

Advertising

Howard Bainbridge

Charlotte Wright

Maria Anicas

Retail Sales

Ayen Molina

Online/Digital

Lalaine Turqueza

Weslee Dizon

Harvey Vippond

Design and Artwork

Dick Tamayo

Mar Principe

Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels.

© 2023 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

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General Information

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Banking and Finance

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Currency

Alfardan Exchange

4453 7777

alfardanexchange.com.qa

Al Jazeera Exchange 4436 3822

aljazeeraexchangeqatar.com

Al Mana Exchange 4442 4226 almanaexchange.com

Al Sadd Exchange 4432 3334

Al Amir Street

Arabian Exchange 4443 8300 arabianex.com

Gulf Exchange 4438 3222 gulfexchange.com.qa/en

Travelex Qatar 4443 4252 travelex.qa

Unimoni Exchange 4436 5252 unimoni.com/qat

Western Union

* Prev. Barwa Bank; merged with International Bank of Qatar in April 2019

# Merged with Al Khalij Commercial Bank in November 2021

§ Prev. Qatar First Bank; name changed in October 2022

The Banking Network

Send money online and via the app, or find a branch at westernunion.com/qa/en

There are hundreds of bank branches and ATMs across the country, in nearly all of the malls, hotels, souqs, hospitals and petrol stations. Visitors can usually access funds in their home accounts by using their cards here, with some ATMs allowing the withdrawal of USD and Euro – check for commission or exchange rate fees. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Exchange houses provide remittance services and foreign exchange and are licensed by Qatar Central Bank. There are no exchange control regulations, but movement of money in and out of local accounts is monitored and a declaration of origin for large cash deposits may be required. Cash transactions above QAR50,000 are now prohibited. The GCCNET system, established by the GCC countries, is a single ATM network linking all GCC point of sale switches – in Qatar this is NAPS (National ATM & POS Switch).

Branch opening hours: Generally Sunday – Thursday 7:30 am – 1 pm. Many banks have extended branch operations, particularly at malls; check the bank's website for timings and locations of branches and ATMs.

Digital branches and services: HSBC Msheireb Downtown Digital branch

• QIB Video Banking via the QIB mobile app

• Virtual assistants: Dukhan Bank (Rashid), Qatar Islamic Bank (Zaki)

E-payment services: QCB has authorised digital payment services via the Qatar Mobile Payment system, the first instant national digital wallet for transactions, bringing together all mobile payment service providers in Qatar.

Participants:

• Qatar National Bank

• Arab Bank

• Ooredoo Money

• Qatar Islamic Bank

• Doha Bank

• Dukhan Bank

• Qatar International Islamic Bank

• HSBC

• Masraf Al Rayan

• Ahli Bank

• Commercial Bank of Qatar

• Infinity Payment Solutions (iPay) by Vodafone Qatar.

Global digital wallet services (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay): All are available and accepted in Qatar. PayPal: Goods and Services only – Friends and Family is not available.

Himyan: Introduced by QCB as the first national prepaid card and accepted at all ATMs, POS and online stores.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has stated all commercial outlets operating in the country must provide an electronic payment service to customers without adding additional charges, nor impose charges for the use of debit/credit cards.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), divided into 100 Dirhams (Dh), issued by Qatar Central Bank (QCB). It is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of USD1 = QAR3.64.

The fifth series of notes were introduced in December 2020. A new QAR200 note joins the QAR1, QAR5, QAR10, QAR50, QAR100 and QAR500 notes. The old notes ceased to be legal tender on 31 December 2021, although the public can change the old notes at QCB for another 10 years. Banknotes incorporate security threads, as well as special features for recognition by the blind and visually impaired, and the new QAR500 note features a holographic security thread, the first in the Middle East to do so. Coins remain unchanged at Dh5, Dh10, Dh25 and Dh50. Four GCC countries support the creation of a Gulf Monetary Union (GMU) – Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain; the UAE and Oman have withdrawn entry. The GCC Supreme Council in 2008 approved the Monetary Union Agreement and the Statute of the Monetary Council. The headquarters of the Gulf Monetary Council opened in Riyadh in 2013 with monetary union proposed later in the year. Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia subsequently agreed to establish a unified central bank with currency pegged to the USD. There has been no further action since 2013.

The Banking Sector

Overseen by Qatar Central Bank (QCB), the sector comprises a number of regional, foreign and Islamic banks. State-owned Qatar Development Bank provides financing to SMEs, while QInvest focuses on investment banking, asset management and investing its own capital.

Barwa Bank and International Bank of Qatar (IBQ) signed a final agreement in August 2018 to merge the two banks, the first in Qatar's banking history, to create a Sharia-compliant financial institution with more than USD22 bn in assets. The legal merger was completed in April 2019, trading as Barwa Bank, with IBQ products converted to Shariacompliant equivalents. Barwa changed its name to Dukhan Bank in October 2020.

In June 2020 negotiations began for another merger between Masraf Al Rayan and Al Khalij Commercial Bank (al khaliji). Masraf Al Rayan was previously involved as a third bank in the merger between Barwa Bank and IBQ. Masraf Al Rayan and al khaliji's merger agreement in January 2021 was completed in November 2021. al khaliji's business was absorbed into Masraf Al Rayan's, with the latter becoming the remaining legal entity operating in accordance with Islamic Sharia principles. It is now one of the largest Sharia-compliant banks in Qatar and the region, with over QAR182 bn in total assets.

The Cabinet approved a draft resolution in December 2021, allowing a non-Qatari investor to own up to 100% of the capital in four banks: Commercial Bank of Qatar, Masraf Al Rayan, Qatar Islamic Bank, and Qatar National Bank.

A new loan-to-deposit requirement of 100% came into effect in 2018. The adoption of International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 9 by QCB has strengthened the provision coverage at Qatar’s commercial banks – under the IFRS standard, banks and financial entities have to set aside a certain proportion of profit against losses for unseen reasons. QCB set up the Supreme Emergency Committee in 2018 to monitor the day-to-day activities of financial institutions in the country, addressing emergency matters and easing the flow of work.

The Economist Intelligence Unit noted in May 2023 that Qatar's banking system risk is among the lowest in the Middle East. In the same month, The Financial Action Task Force and the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force commended Qatar for its efforts in combating money laundering and countering terrorism financing, being compliant or largely compliant for all 40 recommendations in its system.

Qatar Central Bank

Under Law No 13 of 2012 Qatar Central Bank and the Regulation of Financial Services, QCB is deemed an autonomous corporate body, with a capital of QAR50 bn and under the direct control of The Amir. It is headed by a governor appointed by The Amir, and primary goals include financial stability, supporting developmental activities and strengthening the

national economy. The law covers banks, insurance companies, exchange houses, Qatar Exchange and QFC-registered entities. Amiri Decision No 65 of 2021 appointed HE Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani as Governor of QCB. qcb.qa

Under Law No 13 of 2012, the Financial Stability and Risk Monitoring Committee shall study existing and future risks related to all banking, financial, insurance and stock market activities. The panel works closely with the Ministry of Finance to frame general policies.

The law provides strict penalties for anyone accepting deposits from the public without a valid licence from the banking regulator – violators can face a jail term of up to five years and/or a fine of up to QAR5 mn. For those refusing to accept the legal tender of Qatar, there is a jail term of three years and/or a fine of up to QAR5 mn. Issuing forged currency means 10 years in jail and/or a fine of QAR10 mn. Manipulating accounts incurs a prison term of up to three years and/or a fine of up to QAR200,000.

Regulations in 2013 curbed investment options for local banks. Equities and bonds can account for up to 25% of a bank’s capital and reserves; debt issued by the government and national banks are exempt. There is also a limit on the amount placed with individual companies and unlisted securities: a maximum of 5% of capital and reserves for foreign investments and 10% domestically. Total foreign equities is capped at 15%.

The Qatar Renminbi Centre opened in 2015 and is the first in the region to offer Renminbi (RMB) clearing and settlement, increasing financial connectivity between China, Southwest Asia and the MENA region. The centre provides access to China’s onshore RMB and foreign exchange markets to local financial institutions – Chinese companies have become active partners in Qatar, and the RMB centre will facilitate trade via their agreement with QCB. qatarrmbcentre.com

Law No 20 of 2019 on combating money laundering and terrorism financing was issued in September 2019, replacing Law No 4 of 2010, with implementing regulations following in December. The law is in accordance with the latest standards adopted by major international organisations including Financial Action Task Force, highlighting Qatar's regional role in setting standards in its legal and regulatory framework for combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

Fintech regulations

Noting the increasing growth and popularity of fintech, QCB has established the Fintech

Regulatory Sandbox and launched Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH) as a means of boosting financial innovation. The regulatory sandbox, co-founded by Qatar Development Bank, invites entities to safely live-trial their services in the digital payment services space. fintech.qa

QCB launched the National Fintech Strategy 2023 in March 2023 to 'support and reinforce a diversified economy and investments in Qatar based on financial technology and technological innovation,' according to the QCB Governor.

The new strategy has four pillars to boost Qatar's economic growth: establishing infrastructure eg advanced regulatory rules and electronic platforms to develop financial technology; prioritising innovation and financial technology sector growth, especially Islamic financial technology and sustainable development, as well as insurance technology; empowering companies and enhancing their performance by using financial technology solutions and making the State of Qatar a financial technology hub; and providing a smooth mechanism and support for the transition towards cash-less transactions.

This new strategy will add to the number of initiatives already in place to support the fintech sector, such as electronic wallets, instant payments and transfers, and the first local prepaid electronic payment card (Himyan).

Qatar Credit Bureau

Bad loans have been reduced since the Bureau started operations in 2011. The centre cannot grant credit facilities to individuals nor impose

restrictions on banks. Qatar Credit Bureau provides analytical data and supports banks’ use of advanced techniques in risk management, as well as support sustainable growth of credit in Qatar. It provides banks with information on customers' total exposure in the market and the loans they hold, enabling banks to choose prospective customers. cb.gov.qa

Loans, Bank Charges and Interest Rates

Loans: Under QCB rules, the default period for a substandard loan is three months or more, for a doubtful loan six months, and a bad loan nine months. Banks have to closely monitor loan disbursement and forward reports on customer creditworthiness to QCB. There is also a duty to track and follow defaulting customers and seek resolution – if this fails, they will take legal action. Non-payment of loans could lead to a travel ban for Qatar and possibly the GCC.

QCB has imposed ceilings on the amounts a bank can lend as a personal loan to citizens and expatriates. Banks cannot lend more than QAR400,000 to an expatriate, over a maximum repayment period of 48 months, against a max 50% of total monthly salary, and at a max 6.5% interest rate. For Qatari citizens there is a max loan of QAR2 mn over a max 72 months. Banks cannot use post-dated cheques for the loan value.

Mortgages: New rules were introduced by QCB in July 2023, to be applied by Qatari banks and subsidiaries within the country. Branches and subsidiaries of Qatari banks outside the State of Qatar should comply with the instructions and conditions of the host regulatory authorities as long as the collaterals and financed properties are outside the country.

There are three categories:

• Ready and under construction residential properties for individuals, whose repayment sources are linked to the client's own sources, salary or any other non-real estate sources:

ø For Qataris, proprieties up to QAR6 mn –maximum loan-to-value (LTV) of 80% and max tenure of 30 years; above QAR6 mn – max LTV 75%, max tenure 30 years.

ø For residents, for properties up to QAR6 mn –max LTV 75%, max tenure 25 years; above QAR6 mn max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years.

• Financing ready properties for individuals and companies for investment and commercial purposes, with the repayment depending mainly on real estate revenues:

ø For Qatari citizens and companies, which Qatari partners own not less than 51%, for property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 75%, max tenure 25 years; over QAR10mn – max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years.

ø For residents (individuals or companies), for property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 70%, max tenure 25 years; over QAR10 mn – max LTV 65%, max tenure 25 years.

ø For non-residents, property value up to QAR10 mn – max LTV 60%, max tenure 20 years; over QAR10 mn – max LTV 60%, max tenure 15 years.

• Financing real estate under construction for investment and commercial purposes with the repayment depending on the property revenues in whole or in part:

ø For Qatari citizens and companies, which Qatari partners own not less than 51 – max LTV 60%, max tenure 20 years.

ø Foreigners (residents and non-resident) – max LTV 50%, max tenure 15 years.

QCB rules for granting mortgages for salary customers states the debt burden ratio should not exceed 75% of the total salary for Qataris, and 50% for expatriates.

If the customer obtains permanent residence in Qatar as a result of owning the property, the mortgage providers can extend the tenure to be similar to that of residents.

The amendments also state that for underconstruction property financing, the grace period, if granted, should not exceed three years and be within the overall tenure, with regular interest payments during this period on a monthly or quarterly basis.

Documents usually required: • Valuation Report from an approved real estate agent • Salary assignment letter if the home loan is the first facility with the bank • ID for Qataris or passport and valid residence card for expatriates • Copy of the Title Deed and map • Building insurance cover. Discuss provision for life assurance against any loan amount taken and consider updating your will.

Bank charges: Banks must prominently display all interest rates on personal loans and credit cards, as well as publish them in local newspapers.

Credit cards: A maximum 12% annual interest rate and usually only issued when customers transfer their salary or have an adequate deposit at the bank.

Interest rates: Announced by QCB on overnight deposit and loan transactions between QCB and local banks via the Qatar Money Market Rate Standing Facility, a monetary instrument through which local banks can request access to loan and deposit facilities with QCB at daily interest rates. QCB and Bloomberg jointly launched the first Qatar interbank offer rate (QIBOR) fixing in 2012. This is the interest rate charged by banks in Qatar for interbank transactions.

Given the fixed parity between the Qatari riyal and the US dollar, QCB short term interest rates policies are subordinated to the fixed exchange rate policy, making QCB overnight interest rates closely related to its USD counterpart, the Fed Funds Rate.

Following adjustments by the US Federal Reserve, in May 2023 QCB increased the overnight lending to 6%, the deposit rate to 5.50% and the repo rate to 5.75%.

Accounts

Standard bank facilities: Debit/credit cards, standing orders, money transfers, personal loans, vehicle loans, and mortgages on current and savings accounts (including joint accounts). Some accounts offer longer terms, higher interest and the option to save in USD, GBP and Euros.

24/7 telephone and internet banking services and apps offer additional options, while some services such as ordering a cheque book can be accessed via the bank's ATM network. With mobile banking a customer relations officer can visit you at home or work to assist with banking requirements. Most banks offer premium banking services.

The Wage Protection Scheme (WPS) is an electronic salary transfer system that ensures workers are paid as per their employment agreement, initiated by the Ministry of Labour and QCB. Employees therefore need a local bank account in order to receive their wages from the employer.

International bank account number (IBAN): Adopted in 2014 as a standard for identifying and numbering all bank accounts in Qatar. The system applies to all accounts in banks operating in the country, and can be found on bank statements or online in account details. The existing account number is not replaced; additional characters appear in front of the account number to form a 29‑character IBAN. All incoming and outgoing transfers to and from banks and financial institutions must use IBAN.

Opening an Account: Documents usually required:

• A valid residence card or work visa. A worker’s dependants (eg spouse and family) can open an account but may require his permission as he is their sponsor (check with the individual bank).

• Valid passport.

• For current accounts, a letter from the employer/ sponsor confirming the monthly salary in Qatari Riyals, with the company’s official stamp. You may have to transfer your salary to the new account but check with the individual bank.

• Some banks may ask to see your tenancy agreement to establish your residential address.

• Take copies of these documents, along with identity photographs. Ask for photocopies of any documents signed.

Cheques: A chequebook can be issued with a current account. They are not widely accepted for instant payment; post‑dated cheques are commonly used for house rental payments. The onus of responsibility is on the banks not to encash cheques before the designated date. Issuing a cheque without the necessary funds in your account is a serious criminal offence and the bank or creditor may notify the police, leading to possible prosecution.

Punishment for causing a cheque to bounce due to insufficient funds can be severe: jail terms of between three months and three years, and/ or fines of between QAR3,000 and QAR10,000. Cases being filed are on the rise in the country, mostly for cheques for large amounts, and the Capital Security Department records all cases electronically to speed up the process.

Under new QCB instructions, the Qatar Credit Bureau lists individuals and companies who have issued at least one bounced cheque. Banks are not obligated to issue new cheque books to these customers unless the amount has been settled and their name removed. Banks must also report any customer who has issued a bounced cheque.

Credit cards: Widely available with all the usual privileges, with the credit limit determined by the cardholder's salary or savings balance. Family members may also be eligible for a card. Check at the time of applying for issuance and renewal fees, conversion charges, and payment options.

Since 2014 all card transactions made using the magnetic stripe inside and outside of Qatar will be declined. However, as certain countries (eg the US, India and the Philippines) still use the magstripe for transactions, customers should activate their card before travelling.

Offshore banking: Offshore banking can be a secure anchor for an expat's finances while out of their home country. Check with local banks for availability of international bank accounts in USD, GBP, or Euros.

Complaints: Unresolved consumer complaints can be made online to QCB's Consumer Protection Department. qcb.gov.qa

Financial Services and Insurance

Financial services are provided by entities registered with the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). Insurance products are widely available from local and international companies (see Living in Qatar).

Under Law No 13 of 2012 QCB and the Regulation of Financial Services, only local insurance providers are permitted to underwrite any kind of risk against properties in Qatar. Decision No 1 of 2016 issued by the Governor of QCB provides instructions related to licencing, regulation and controls, risk management, accounting, and other requirements. Listed companies must have capital in excess of QAR100 mn or a risk-based capital, while unlisted companies must have capital higher than that set by QCB or their risk-based capital.

Decision No 7 of 2019 set out further instructions for licensing, organising and supervising the services of supporting insurance providers. It set out the competencies and expertise, the nature of the work, areas of responsibility and functions, and the establishment of professional and ethical codes of conduct. QCB continues to regulate and develop the insurance market under the National Fintech Strategy 2023 launched in March 2023.

Islamic Finance

Current Islamic institutions include Dukhan Bank, International Islamic, Masraf Al Rayan and Qatar Islamic Bank. Lesha Bank – regulated by the QFC Regulatory Authority – is the first independent, Sharia compliant investment bank.

Banks were required by QCB to separate their Islamic and conventional lending operations by 31 December 2011. Islamic banking by other conventional banks is now barred from Qatar's market. QCB took this action due to certain supervisory and monetary issues, namely that holding both Islamic and non-Islamic deposits incurs different risks and reporting methods.

Law No 13 of 2012 requires that Islamic banks must have a Sharia board with at least three qualified members approved by the shareholders. Neither they nor members of their family may be employed or hold shares in the entity.

Institutions and services must abide by regulations set out in the Holy Quran and Sharia (Islamic Law). Charging riba (interest) is haram (forbidden). Islamic banks charge fees for services and engage in profit sharing, enabling them to offer comparable facilities to those of conventional banks. Under a mudharabah (profit sharing) contract, the rabbul maal (owner of the money) authorises the bank to invest funds as per Sharia to make justifiable returns. Other concepts of Islamic banking include wadiah (safekeeping), musharakah (joint venture), and ijarah (leasing). Bai (saving) is halal (allowed). m

The Launch of the Qatar Credit Bureau Electronic Application

The Qatar Credit Bureau has a new electronic application service, part of the bureau's continuous efforts to develop the services it provides to the public. The app is in line with Qatar Vision 2030, which aims to advance the economic sector and continue its digital transformation, as well as efforts by the bureau to keep pace with the technological advances in Qatar’s financial and banking sector. The app allows users, whether individuals or companies, to easily access credit reports and the approval system. Users can also file and follow up on complaints about the credit information contained in their credit reports. The app uses customer authentication features and secure electronic payment options to guarantee customer confidentiality and security. Additionally, only users registered with the Tawtheeq system can access the electronic services available. Users can register in the Tawtheeq system using their personal identification numbers. The app is available for iOS and Android, in Arabic and English.

qatarchamber

qatar_chamber

Our main role is to organise business interests and represent the Qatari private sector locally and globally as well as support the country’s economic actors and productivity

www.qatarchamber.com info@qcci.org

Economic Growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

One of the main aims of Qatar National Vision 2030 is to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on the hydrocarbon industries. The economy has weathered the impact of both the COVID-19 pandemic and the blockade that was imposed on 5 June 2017, with positivity after borders reopened between Saudi Arabia and Qatar following the AlUla Declaration in January 2021. Qatar and the US topped global exports of LNG in 2022 due to the energy crisis following the war in Ukraine.

The World Bank has forecasted the growth of the Qatari economy by 3.3% in 2023 to be among the best growth rates in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a growth of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita by 2.2%. The surplus of the fiscal balance would be about 6.5% of GDP, and the surplus of the current account balance would be about 15.9%.

According to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA), the quarterly GDP estimates at constant prices was QAR179.99 bn in Q4 2022, while GDP at current prices increased to QAR220.43 bn. The nominal gross value added estimate of mining and quarrying activities increased by 43.4% to around QAR91.25 bn. The value added estimates at current prices for non-mining activities and quarries in Q4 2022 was QAR129.18 bn, up 16.4% year-onyear (y-o-y).

The Ministry of Finance stated in February 2023 that Qatar's budget for the 2022 fiscal year saw a surplus of QAR89 bn, an increase of 5462.5% compared to the surplus of 2021. The surplus for Q4 2022 was QAR 11.6 bn, compared to a deficit of QAR3.3 bn y-o-y.

Export, Import and Trade Surplus

In April 2023, PSA data stated the total exports of goods (including exports of goods of domestic origin and re-exports) amounted to around QAR30.7 bn, a decrease of 0.5% month-on-month (m-o-m) and a decrease of 29.4% y-o-y. The y-o-y decrease was mainly due to lower exports of petroleum gases/other gaseous hydrocarbons. China was the main country of destination (18.3%), followed by South Korea and India.

Imports of goods was around QAR8.7 bn, a decrease of 9.3% m-o-m and a decrease of 6.3% y-o-y. The US was the main country of origin (14.7%), followed by China and India.

showed a surplus of QAR22.0 bn, an increase of QAR0.7 bn or 3.5% m-o-m and a decrease of QAR12.2 bn or 35.6% y-o-y.

The Budget

The State Budget for 2023 was announced in December 2022, with total revenue estimates at QAR228 bn, a 16.3% increase compared to 2022. Expenditures will decrease by 2.6% to QAR199 bn, due to an end in expenses for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. However, the allocations for salaries and wages has increased by 6.3% to QAR4.0 bn.

The QAR29 bn budget surplus will repay public debt, support the reserves of Qatar Central Bank (QCB) and increase the capital of Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), to stimulate and diversify the State's economy. The budget surplus is the highest in the last decade, thanks to a 20.8% increase in oil revenues. Figures have been based on an average oil price of USD65 a barrel, up from USD55 in the 2022 budget. HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, the Minister of Finance, stated this was due to the remarkable recovery in global energy prices during 2022, adding that international estimates suggest that energy prices will continue to rise over the medium term.

The allocations for major projects for 2023 decreased by 13.6%, at QAR 63.9 bn, while current expenditures increases from QAR67.2 bn to QAR67.5 bn. The 2023 budget shows 22 new projects allocated QAR9.8 bn as part of the country’s scheduled QAR64 bn expenditure of the general budget on major projects for the next year. Of these projects, 14 are estimated to receive QAR5.5 bn, based on an assessment of priorities.

The State continues to focus on the health and education sectors, with QAR21.1 bn for health (11% of total expenditure), and QAR18.1 bn for education (9% of total expenditure).

Inflation and Cost of Living

For April 2023, the Consumer Price Index (CPI), used to calculate inflation rates in Qatar, reached 105.52 points, a decrease of 0.03% m-o-m and an increase of 3.68% y-o-y. PSA data shows there was an annual price increase in seven categories, the largest being a 15.34% increase in the prices of recreation and culture.

Population and the Labour Force

The foreign merchandise trade balance – the difference between total exports and imports – m

Total population in May 2023 was 3,001,781: males 2,160,061; females 841,720. The Labour Force report for Q3 2022 issued in December 2022 showed the unemployment rate was just 0.1%, one of the lowest in the world.

Qatar is a member of the World Trade Organisation and its trade policies create a competitive international trading market. The government supports the growth and success of businesses in a bid to diversify the economy. Qatar is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which also includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Following the ending of the blockade, Qatar has resumed trade with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt, and has continued to strengthen relations with a number of other countries such as Turkey, Oman, Kuwait, India, China, the UK and the US.

Embassies can provide valuable information on commercial activities and can connect you with their business council/chamber of commerce – see the Discovering Qatar section for contact details. Translation services can be found in Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.

Investment and Trade

Qatar has one of the fastest growing global economies thanks to the third largest concentration of natural gas reserves in the world. Recent legal liberalisation, economic diversification and an expanding economy provides many investment opportunities for non-Qataris. Investors can enjoy unrivalled world connectivity via Hamad Port, one of the largest in the region, and the world’s best airport, airline and air cargo carrier. Profits can be repatriated as can proceeds of sale and capital on liquidation. Major investment sectors are construction, oil and gas, education, and financial and legal services, with opportunities in ICT, sport, leisure and healthcare.

Qatar ranks first among the world’s top destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI), thanks to strong economic and investment momentum, according to the Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar).

Data in the ‘FDI Standouts Watchlist 2023’ released by fDi Intelligence in January 2023 shows economies from the MENA region, led by Qatar, India, and Morocco, are expected to carry the strongest investment momentum into this year.

The report states that Qatar achieved 70% annual growth in FDI projects between 2019 and 2022, with the top FDI sectors being oil and gas, financial services, and ICT. The energy crisis due to the war in Ukraine has boosted Qatar’s role as a top exporter of liquified natural gas (LNG). The mega North Field Expansion project to strengthen the State's status as a LNG giant has seen a number of international partnerships with state-owned QatarEnergy for the project.

Incentives

The government welcomes foreign participation in joint ventures, with a number of incentives for investment:

• A developed infrastructure and ICT network.

• Easy access to world markets with good sea and air connections, continuously being upgraded.

• Natural gas, electricity, water and petroleum at subsidised rates.

• Land for development in the Industrial Area near Doha for nominal fees – companies can submit a request to the Ministry of Municipality for a lease contract of a plot under the Doha, Al Khor, Al Dakhira and Al Shamal Municipalities.

• Loans available from Qatar Development Bank.

• Fixed parity between the Qatari riyal and US dollar (USD1 = QAR3.64).

• No customs duty on the import of plant machinery; exemption from export duty.

• Five-year renewable tax holidays (based on government approval).

• No income tax on the salaries of expatriates.

• Tax on the profits of foreign-owned stakes in Qatari companies applied at a flat rate of 10%.

• Employment and immigration rules enabling the import of skilled and unskilled labour.

Investment Regulations

There are primarily two regulatory jurisdictions for foreign investors seeking to conduct commercial business in Qatar: the regulations of the State of Qatar, and the rules and regulations of the Qatar Financial Centre (discussed in more detail below).

Qatar also recently introduced new free zones designed to encourage certain bespoke investment vehicles to bring their businesses to the region. Non-Qatari investors may only invest in Qatar in accordance with Foreign Investment Law No 1 of 2019:

• In January 2019 the Amir promulgated the new foreign investment law of 2019. According to the new law, foreign investors are permitted to hold more than 49% in commercial companies with special permission from the Minister of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) (subject to some prohibitions set out below). Under the former law such increased ownership was limited to those businesses operating in a specific set of sectors.

• Non-Qatari investors are prohibited from being appointed as commercial agents under Commercial Agencies Law No 8 of 2002, but the former prohibition preventing foreigners from investing in real estate businesses has been removed under the new Foreign Investment

Law. Approval from the Council of Ministers is required for foreign investment in banking and insurance.

• Foreign capital is protected against expropriation (although the State may acquire assets for public benefit on a non-discriminatory basis, provided the full economic value is paid for the asset).

• Subject to Ministerial approval, a foreign company performing a specific contract in Qatar may set up a branch office if the project facilitates the performance of a public service or utility.

• A non-Qatari company operating in Qatar under a Qatari government concession to extract, exploit or manage the State's national resources is exempt from the Foreign Investment Law. In practice this covers all large oil and gas companies.

• A company formed by a non-Qatari entity with the government or a government entity ('Article 207 Company') may be subject to special rules and exemptions from the Commercial Companies Law No 11 of 2015.

• All international companies securing mega infrastructure development work must share at least 30% of the contract with local entities.

• Law No 7 of 1987 governs the practice of commercial activity by GCC citizens in Qatar, and was amended in April 2017 under Law No 6 of 2017. GCC citizens as individuals or legal personalities can practice retail and wholesale trade in Qatar. However, the GCC citizen engaging in the activity must be directly responsible for it. Those undertaking retail business must do so via direct sale to customers in a shop, and those in wholesale trading are required to import and export the goods. NB: following the signing of AlUla Declaration regarding the blockade against Qatar, legal advice is recommended for this type of commercial activity.

• Law No 12 of 2020 regulating the partnership between the public and the private sector became law in July 2020, as per one of the following regulations: Allocation of land through a rental or usage licence, for development by the private sector; build-operate-transfer (BOT); buildtransfer-operate (BTO); build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT); operations and maintenance (OM); or any other form adopted by the Prime Minister, upon the proposal of the relevant minister. The Government or other administration may, on its own initiative or at the suggestion of the private sector, identify a project for its implementation through partnership.

Choosing A Business Structure

To conduct business in Qatar on a regular basis, foreign investors are required to establish or register a legal presence from the following options:

• Incorporating as a company under the Commercial Companies Law which allows full access to Qatar's market and to work on an unlimited number of projects. A Qatari partner is required to own 51% of the capital of the company, except in the circumstances mentioned above. Various exemptions are available to attract foreign capital.

• Obtaining a licence for a branch office or trade representation office which does not require a Qatari partner. The licence for a branch is granted in respect of a specific project for a government client. The existence of the branch office is dependent on the duration of a particular project: once the project is completed, the branch office must close unless it has secured additional qualifying projects. Branch offices are only permitted to perform a specific contract and may not engage in general commercial activities with the larger local market. The branch will be fully taxable unless granted a special exemption. Trade representation offices are only permitted to market goods and services; they are not permitted to engage in commercial activities.

• Under Law No 7 of 2017 companies in GCC states can now establish companies in Qatar, subject to having had a commercial registration in one of the GCC states for at least three years, and be fully owned and managed by a GCC citizen. Refer to the preceding caveat in Investment Regulations regarding the blockade.

• Appointing a commercial agent means a nonQatari company does not establish a presence in Qatar; instead a 100% owned Qatari entity or Qatari national is appointed as an agent to market the relevant goods and services. Commercial agencies must be exclusive and registered in order to be afforded the protections provided under the Commercial Agents Law No 8 of 2002; non-registered distributorships are subject to the Commercial Law No 27 of 2006.

• There is a separate regime for establishing an entity in the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). This allows 100% foreign ownership and aims to attract international financial services companies and some professional support companies to invest in Qatar. The number of permitted activities in which a QFC firm may engage has been increased to include a broader spectrum of investment options.

• The Qatar Science and Technology Park, a free zone in Education City, allows companies to engage in research and development, again with full foreign ownership.

• The new Qatar Free Zones have started accepting applications and international investors, at these zones:

• Um Alhoul, a 30 sq km site adjoining Hamad Port, south of Al Wakra – offers easy access to the water for maritime and logistics companies, and is a gateway for imports and exports. A port and marine cluster, 'Marsa', is able to support a wide range of marine businesses.

• Ras Bufontas, a 4 sq km site adjacent to Hamad International Airport – a technology and manufacturing hub for businesses requiring international connectivity.

• The Cabinet has added some areas to the Free Zones Law, including Msheireb Downtown Doha.

• Under Ministerial Decision No 242 of 2016, the MOCI will grant licences for small businesses at home conducting certain commercial activities including sewing, events services, electronic services, business services, cosmetic activities and food activities. A single license is issued per activity, with an annual fee, and cannot involve direct sales to the public from the residence. Decision No 163 of 2018 cancelled the requirement for signage at the house entrance.

Company Structures

According to the Commercial Companies Law No 11 of 2015, the following structures are permitted:

• Limited liability companies (LLCs) – subject to the Foreign Investment Law can now be established by a single person owning the entire share capital (previously the minimum number of shareholders was two). This replaces the single person company under the old companies law. Shareholders can determine the share capital of an LLC (previously the minimum share capital was QAR200,000 divided into equal shares).

• Article 207 company – a shareholding company where the Qatari government, a government owned entity or a public corporation must own 51% of the shares, unless the Council of Ministers consents otherwise. Certain provisions of the Commercial Companies Law are excluded from the company’s Articles of Association.

• General partnership – joint partners administer the affairs of the company, and trustee partners contribute to the company's capital.

• Simple limited partnership – a local entity formed by two or more Qataris.

• Limited partnership with shares – formed by joint partners, liable for the debts, or trustee partners, whose liability is limited to the share value.

• Unincorporated joint venture – formed by two or more people pursuant to specific contractual arrangements. The unincorporated joint venture does not have a separate legal personality distinct from its partners.

• Joint stock company (public or private) – the capital is divided into shares with a minimum of five shareholders. Permissible foreign share ownership depends on the type of company and is subject to Qatar Financial Markets Authority approval.

• Holding company – incorporated as a joint stock or limited liability company. The holding company must hold at least 51% of the shares in each of the companies under its control.

Commercial Registration (CR)

Virtually all companies use a government liaison officer or facilitator to assist with establishment formalities. Under Qatar Commercial Registration Law No 25 of 2005, companies must be approved or registered by one or more of the following entities: Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI); Qatar Chamber; Ministry of Municipality; Ministry of Interior; Importers' Register/ Contractors' Register; and QFC Authority (where appropriate). Visit moci.gov.qa for details.

Amendments were made under Law No 20 of 2014 to expedite registration procedures, followed by Decisions 30 and 31 of 2019:

• The MOCI must respond to the applicant's request for registration on the same day.

• Reasons must be given for rejected applications. The Minister must accept or reject an appeal of the Ministry's decision within 15 days.

• Incorporated branches must be in the exact name of the principal company, and are not considered separate legal entities.

• Amendments have also been made to penalties for those operating commercial premises without a CR, misusing the CR, and providing false/ wrong documents.

• Renewals, trade name changes and other modifications are now online services only at investor.sw.gov.qa

Export and Import

Exports According to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA), Qatar’s total exports (including exports of domestic goods and re-exports) in April

2023 was QAR30.7 bn, mainly to China, India and South Korea. There are no duties on exports.

Imports According to PSA, imports in April 2023 was around QAR8.7 bn, for crude materials, manufactured goods, chemicals and mineral fuels, mainly from the US, China and India.

Import tariffs Importers of goods into Qatar must sign up to the Importers' Register and be approved by Qatar Chamber (QC). Customs duty and legalisation fees are levied on all commercial shipments, irrespective of its value. All goods imported into Qatar are subject to customs duties, based on a percentage value of goods (usually 5%), or on a 'per unit' basis. Effective from May 2021, incoming parcels and personal shipments with a cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value exceeding QAR1,000 is liable to 5% customs duties (previously QAR3,000).

Customs duty tariffs fall under these categories:

• Personal effects and household items, imports of charitable organisations and returned goods, diplomatic and military exemptions, merchandise for ‘free zones’ and duty-free shops – exempt. Goods in transit may be accepted at designated stations without duty.

• General cargo, eg clothing, perfumes, cars, electronic appliances and devices – 5%.

• Steel – 20%.

• Urea and ammonia – 30%.

• Cigarettes, tobacco and its derivatives – 100% or QR1,000 per 10,000 cigarettes, whichever is higher.

Law No 25 of 2018 on Excise Tax came into effect 1 January 2019. All businesses that import, produce or store/stockpile excise goods must comply with the requirements stipulated under the law. The following goods are subject to Excise Tax:

• Tobacco products – 100% • Carbonated drinks (non-flavoured aerated water excluded) – 50%

• Energy drinks – 100% • Special goods – 100%

In accordance with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Customs Union, more than 800 goods are exempted from customs duties, alongside exemptions granted to certain bodies and persons under Customs Law No 40 of 2004. There are fees for the attestation of the Certificate of Origin (from QC) and a tariff for the attestation of the Commercial Invoice, based on shipment value.

Qatar implemented the World ATA Carnet Council in 2018, an international customs system with nearly 80 member countries, permitting the duty-

free and tax-free temporary import and export of goods for up to one year. The system is being implemented by QC alongside ICC Qatar and the General Authority of Customs (GAC).

Through the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) launched in 2019, the GAC aims to develop partnership and cooperation with the private sector by granting customs benefits and facilities to companies involved in the supply chain in international trade, as per the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Trade (SAFE). To date, there are 39 companies in the import/export category and 8 in the customs clearance category.

Import regulations All commercial shipments are examined by GAC prior to clearance. The Qatar Electronic Customs Clearance Single Window (Al Nadeeb) is a one-stop e-government system to facilitate international trade. customs.gov.qa

New regulations were introduced in 2013 to prevent fake products from entering the market. All general goods must have non-removable marking of their place of manufacture to be eligible for customs clearance. This applies to both air and sea freight. The import of vehicle tyres, spare parts and electrical home appliances has to be based on a 'certificate of conformity' issued by the authority concerned. All general cargo for customs clearance must be backed by an original commercial invoice on the shipper’s letterhead, with stamp and signature. They also require attestation by QC. The packing list of each consignment must have the number of pieces, weight and volume.

GAC requires all importers to obtain an HS Code, an international system for classifying traded products. This must be linked to the trader's Commercial Registration and import licence. There are few restrictions on bringing personal effects into Qatar. However, anyone (importers, exporters or travellers) holding local or foreign currency, precious metals or jewellery worth more than QAR50,000 must complete a customs declaration form upon entry into or departure from the country. Banned imports include alcohol, pork and e-cigarettes. The import of pets is allowed, although certain breeds are not permitted. NB: The signing of AlUla Declaration regarding the blockade against Qatar means commercial cargo movement has resumed between Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Points of entry Imports and exports are transitted via Hamad International Airport, Hamad Port, Doha Port, Mesaieed Port, Ras Laffan and the Salwa Overland Terminal.

Taxation

There are no personal taxes or statutory deductions from salaries in Qatar. Under Law No 24 of 2018 on Income Tax ('the New Tax Law') and its executive regulations, companies must pay tax on all profits at a flat rate of 10%. This is on all corporate income from sources in Qatar, whether the entity has a physical presence in Qatar or not. The share of the profits due to a Qatari or GCC partner is exempt from tax.

Tax exemption applies for certain activities, and companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange are also exempt, but companies are required to pay a 2.5% contribution to charitable and cultural activities. Taxpayers need to register with the Public Revenue and Taxes Department. Auditors must be a firm based in Qatar and registered with the MOCI or approved by the QFC. Services are offered by the General Tax Authority via the Dhareeba portal.

In 2016 GCC members agreed to introduce VAT, tentatively set for early 2018. The Qatar Value Added Tax (VAT) Law and Excise Tax Law and Executive Regulations was approved in May 2017, based on the unified GCC agreement. To date, only the Excise Tax has been implemented.

Intellectual Property

Under Law No 9 of 2002, a trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the date of filing the application, renewable for further consecutive periods of 10 years. The court may be ordered to cancel a trademark registration if the owner fails to use it in Qatar within five consecutive years from the date of the registration.

Copyright Law No 7 of 2002 gives protection to authors of original literary and artistic works. Protected works include books, lectures, musical works, photographic works and computer software. The economic rights of the author/owner are protected during the lifetime of the author, and for 50 years after his death.

Patent Law No 30 of 2006 provides for the registration of inventions and foreign patents at the Qatar Patent Office; implementing regulations were issued by the Minister of Commerce and Industry under Decision No 153 of 2018.

Qatar announced its accession to the Patent Cooperation Treaty in 2011. The Law of Trademarks in the GCC Countries was promulgated under Law No 7 of 2014, and the same year Qatar signed a cooperation agreement with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to jointly improve services. There is an electronic trademark

registration service via the MOCI website to expedite submissions and preserve IP rights.

Law No 10 of 2020 on the protection of industrial designs was issued in April 2020. This will offer more comprehensive protection for designs once the implementing regulations are issued, as previously protection was sought by publishing cautionary notices in Qatari newspapers.

In 2022 Qatar won the presidency of the International Union for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Berne Union). The Berne Union is a UN agency under WIPO, and is an agreement by member states to protect works and the rights of authors, as well as giving creators the means to place autonomy over their works. Acting Director of the office of Qatar to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Ahmed Essa Al Sulaiti is Chairman of the Committee of the Union for two years.

Regulatory Bodies and Government Entities

Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar)

A4 Custodian of the Invest Qatar brand, IPA Qatar was launched in 2019 and is registered at the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). The agency provides investment solutions in Qatar, attracting foreign direct investment in all of the country’s priority sectors. invest.qa

Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) A4 Creates commercial policy for both private and public sectors in order to boost regional and international trade relations and support the development of businesses across the country. The ministry is a primary resource for information when opening a company and investing in Qatar. A number of services are available through the Single Window, part of the ministry's efforts to attract local and foreign investments. moci.gov.qa, investor.sw.gov.qa

Ministry of Finance (MOF) C4 Prepares the State Budget and proposes objectives and tools of financial policy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Its Tahfeez programme enhances local services and products to strengthen Qatar's private sector. The General Authority of Customs monitors the import of all goods, and the e-services of the Unified Website of State Procurement include tenders and company registration. mof.gov.qa, customs.gov.qa, monaqasat.mof.gov.qa

Ministry of Justice (MOJ) C4 Records legal actions and documents, registers and protects IP rights, and reviews draft contracts and agreements in accordance with the law. The Ministry has a real estate registration/authentication office at the QFC to provide services to QFC entities.

Ministry of Municipality C4 The Foras investment portal promotes PPPs, currently for environmental, service, and sustainability projects. mme.gov.qa

Qatar Chamber (QC) D4 Provides a wide range of services and support to local and international businesses, including certificates of origin (COO) for import/export and ATA Carnet, acting as liaison for international business delegations, and providing training courses. QC services are also available to QFC-licensed firms. The Qatar International Center for Conciliation & Arbitration (QICCA) was established in 2006 as part of QC to act as an efficient and swift mechanism to settle disputes between Qatari enterprises, or between national companies and foreign counterparts. qatarchamber.com, qicca.org

Qatar Development Bank (QDB) D4 Has an active role in the economic and industrial development of Qatar in the private sector by promoting and financing SMEs. The bank is 100% owned by the State of Qatar and provides a wide range of financial and advisory products, such as funding, incubation, and support services. qdb.qa

Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) C4

An independent regulatory authority supervising the financial markets and firms authorised to conduct activities related to securities in or from Qatar, and empowered to exercise regulatory oversight and enforcement over the capital markets. QFMA was granted full membership of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions in 2013. New legislation in 2014 modernised the legal infrastructure, while listing rules and a governance code for funds were issued in 2019. qfma.org.qa

Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) C2

Since 2009 QSTP has been a facility for applied research and commercialised technology in Energy, Environment, Health Sciences, and ICT. This free zone at Education City allows foreign companies to set up 100%-owned businesses in Qatar free of tax and duties. Members must have technology development (eg applied research, development and testing of a product or service, or technology training) as their main activity. qstp.org.qa

Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)

The QIA A4 was established in 2005 as the country's sovereign wealth fund to grow and diversify Qatar's economy. QIA has two main objectives: to support the local economy; and provide liquidity when required to stabilise the local economy, supporting local economic development by investing in companies that fill market gaps. QIA is the owner or a key shareholder in domestic companies such as Qatar National Bank, Ooredoo, Qatar Airways,

Mwani Qatar, Qatar Holding, Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Katara Hospitality, Barwa Group, and Qatar Sports Investments, which owns football club Paris Saint-Germain.

QIA has approximately USD450 bn in assets, although the fund does not publish its holdings. Direct investments are made in real estate, healthcare, retail/consumer, technology/media/ telecoms, finance and industry.

Following a restructure in 2016, USD100 bn of investments in local companies were placed in a new unit, Qatar Investments (known as QIA internationally). QIA is a founding member of the One Planet Sovereign Wealth Fund Working Group, helping to produce a framework in 2018 to integrate climate change analysis into investment decisions. Further to this, in 2020 QIA embarked on a revised strategy promoting sustainability, with no new investments in fossil fuels.

Amiri Decision No 34 of 2023 was issued in May 2023 reorganising QIA, highlighting its mandate, primary roles and responsibilities, and strategic objectives. An enhanced governance framework will enable effective oversight, aligned with international best practices. qia.qa

Qatar Investments Authority Portfolio

(unconfirmed): 52 Champs-Elysées, Adecoagro, Agricultural Bank of China, Asia Square Tower 1, Banyan Tree, Barclays PLC, Barwa Bank, Brookfield Property Partners, Canary Wharf Group, Claridge's/The Berkeley/The Connaught hotels, Credit Suisse Group AG, Deutsche Bank AG, El Corte Ingles SA, Empire State Realty Trust, Fahrenheit, Glencore PLC, Grupo Santander Brasil, Harrods, Hassad Food, Heathrow Airport Holdings, Hochtief, Iberdrola SA, J Sainsbury PLC, Kahramaa, Lagardère, Le Brantano!, Le Tanneur, Lifestyle International Holdings Ltd, London Shard Tower, London Stock Exchange, LVMH, Masraf Al Rayan, Mowasalat, National Grid PLC, One Ocean Port Vell, Ooredoo, Oryx Midstream Services (Oryx), Pavilion, Pulkovo Airport, Qatar Exchange, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatar International Islamic Bank, Qatar National Bank, Rosneft PJSC, Royal Dutch Shell, Siemens, Societe Fonciere Lyonnaise SA, The Bürgenstock Selection, Total SA, Turkuvaz, Valentino Fashion Group SpA, Vente-Privée, Vivendi, Volkswagen AG, Xstrata PLC.

Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company Projects include: Lusail City; Chelsea Barracks and East Village (UK); and City Center DC (US). The Qatar Railways Development Company (Qatar Rail) was formed to oversee the Qatar Rail Development Programme: the Doha Metro, the Long Distance Rail, and the Lusail Tram. qataridiar.com

Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)

The QFC C4 was established in 2005 to attract international financial institutions and firms to establish business operations in a 'best‑in‑class' international environment. There are two independent bodies: the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority and the QFC Regulatory Authority (QFCRA). To operate in or from the QFC, a firm needs to be incorporated or registered by the QFC Companies Registration Office, licensed by the QFCA, and for regulated activities, authorised by the QFCRA.

Advantages of establishment in the QFC include:

• A separate legal, regulatory, tax and business environment.

• 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of profits, and 10% corporate tax on locally sourced profits.

• A double taxation avoidance agreement network with more than 80 countries.

Assets managed by QFC amount to QAR28.3 bn with more than 1,500 local and international firms registered on its platform . Companies comprise investment and private banking entities, and (re)insurance and asset management firms (each of which is regulated); and consultancy service providers, law firms and financial services recruitment firms (which are non‑regulated).

The QFC is taking a major step in diversifying key economic sectors eg digital, financial services, sports, and media. An attractive incentives programme is available to multinational companies, offering free offices, highly competitive tax incentives, and seed capital to cover five years of operating expenses in return for a 10 year commitment. An enhanced registration sees complete registration applications reviewed and processed quickly, and firms have a dedicated Business Development Representative to coordinate setting up. qfc.qa

The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority, the commercial arm of the QFC, leads the expansion of Qatar’s financial services sector and develops relationships with the regional and global financial community. The QFCA's strategy focuses on the creation of a global business hub for three core markets – Asset Management, Reinsurance and Captive Insurance.

The QFCRA is the independent regulatory body of the QFC, overseeing all firms conducting financial services in or from the QFC, as a combined banking, insurance and markets regulator. In 2012,

the QCB Governor took over the chairmanship of QFCRA, as part of a plan to establish a single financial regime, comprising QFCRA, QFMA, QE, QCB, and the Supreme Judicial Council. qfcra.com

The Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) was established by QFC Law No 2 of 2009 and consists of the QFC Civil and Commercial Court (First Instance and Appellate Divisions) and the QFC Regulatory Tribunal. The Court has consensual jurisdiction to hear disputes between parties from anywhere around the world and mandatory jurisdiction to hear disputes between entities registered in the QFC. There is a purpose built Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre.

Under Laws No 14 and 15 passed in 2021, the QICDRC's jurisdiction was expanded to include the Qatar Free Zones and the Qatar Free Zones Authority, as well as matters referred to the Court or Regulatory Tribunal by any law in the State. A new practice direction on small claims, No 1 of 2022, substantially shortens the time to reach a judgment and offers a quick and efficient legal dispute resolution mechanism.

An additional practice guide was issued in May 2023, providing standard directions and notes for proceedings, with a framework of procedures for litigants or their legal representatives during pleadings. The guide is available online in English and Arabic at qicdrc.com.qa

Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE)

QSE C4 was created in 2009 between Qatar Holding (88%) and NYSE Euronext (12%) as the successor to Doha Securities Market; Qatar Holding purchased NYSE Euronext's stake in 2013. In 2012, regulatory authority passed to Qatar Central Bank (QCB) from Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA), and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Investment Promotion Agency in 2021 to boost the attractiveness of Qatar as an investment destination.

Trading in treasury bills began in 2011 and in 2012 the Venture Market for SMEs was launched. In 2016 QSE joined the Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative of the United Nations (SSEI). QSE migrated to a new trading system, Millennium, in June 2023, and is part of an agreement signed with the London Stock Exchange (LSEG) in 2022. The new system allows QSE to use LSEG's financial markets technology products to oversee trading, market data, analysis and surveillance.

There are 52 listed companies on the main market and 2 on the venture market, and 7 brokerage firms (June 2023). While QFC companies are subject to separate rules and regulations, the listing and trading of shares in QFC companies still fall under the purview of QCB, QFMA and QSE. Residents, expats and individual companies are all able to invest. Traders must open an account with a brokerage firm, who will act as an intermediary for all transactions and provide a National Investor Number for a fee of QAR100. Investors can now trade from a bank account in Qatar or in the country of residence. Traders must also register at Qatar Central Securities Depository (QCSD), established by QCB and licensed by QFMA to provide safekeeping, clearing and settlement of securities and other financial instruments listed on the exchange. qe.com.qa, qcsd.com.qa

Real Estate

Under Law No 16 of 2018 on the regulation of non-Qatari ownership and utilisation of real estate, implemented in March 2019, non-Qataris may own and use properties in Qatar 'in many areas according to conditions, regulations and procedures, which shall be determined by a decision of the Cabinet based on the proposal of the Committee for the Regulation of Ownership and Use of Non-Qatari Property'.

The real estate non-Qatari individuals and companies are allowed to invest in includes offices, shops, units and villas in residential complexes, and real estate development of land in specified areas, and is not limited to apartments and residential units. Cabinet Resolution No 28 of 2020, passed in October 2020, confirmed the areas in which non-Qataris may own and benefit from real estate, and the terms, conditions, benefits and procedures for their ownership and use of them. This encompasses the right to free ownership of residential units inside residential complexes and shops inside malls.

Business etiquette

Owners of property worth more than QAR730,000 will be offered residency, as well as their family, for the duration of ownership, with residency given as soon as they finalise the purchase. Owners of property worth more than QAR3.65 mn will receive the same benefits as permanent residents regarding healthcare, education, and investment in some commercial activities. The Ministry of Justice is the one-stop-shop for all transactions regarding non-Qatari ownership of real estate.

Freehold developments There are nine areas non-Qataris can own and use freehold property:

• Al Qassar (administrative area 60) • Al Dafna (administrative area 61) • Onaiza (administrative area 63) • West Bay (66) • The Pearl Island (66)

• Lusail (69) • Al Khraij (69) • Jabal Theyleeb (69)

• Al Khor Resort (74)

Foreign companies can also own properties in these areas. The law offers an atttractive new investment model to Qatar, offering 100% guaranteed return on investment in these areas. Leasehold developments Non-Qataris can use real estate property for 99 years in 16 designated areas: • Msheireb (area 13) • Fereej Abdelaziz (14)

• Doha Al Jadeeda (15) • New Al Ghanim (16)

• Al Refaa and Old Al Hitmi (17) • Aslata (18)

• Fereej Bin Mahmoud (22 and 23) • Rawdat Al Khail (24) • Mansoura and Fereej Bin Dirham (25)

• Najma (26) • Umm Ghuwailina (27)

• Al Khulaifat (28) • Al Sadd (38)

• Al Mirqab Al Jadeed and Fereej Al Nasr (39)

• Doha International Airport area (48)

Doing business in Qatar relies on personal relationships as well as the quality of the company or service. Networking and exchanging business cards is important. Men should wear suits or smart/ business casual, women should cover upper arms and knees. When meeting Arab people of the opposite sex it is best to wait for them to initiate a handshake.

Some other cultural nuances: • Don't rely too much on email

• Oral commitments at meetings may be deemed binding, written agreements may not

• Appointments should be reconfirmed on the day • English is widely spoken, however the language of government is Arabic

• Chat with your host on general matters before approaching business.

Academy Course Greens Rebuilt

With the successful implementation of Paspalum Greens on the Championship Course, the Academy Course now follows suit.

The work to the putting surfaces on the Academy Course will be the first of its kind since the course was constructed, with the grass on the greens changing to the paspallum ‘dynasty’ species.

The greens were constructed in 1996, and grass technology has come a long way since then and the passpallum dynasty grass we have selected doesn’t mind the TSE that is now used.

The majority of the greens will be expanded back to their original size and will be reinstated back to their original slopes and elevations, with some fresh surrounds and run-off areas being added by new Course Superintendent, Andrew Ikstrums. Work commenced at the end of June, and the greens will reopened in mid-August.

We look forward to welcoming you to our refurbished Academy Course

For further information, contact us at the below details:

The Mark of Qatar Quality

By Sarah Palmer

As a means of boosting the competitiveness of national products, Qatar recently launched its own Quality Mark.

The Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani launched the Qatar Quality Mark earlier this year. This has been done in order to enhance the competitiveness of national goods both locally as well as around the world.

HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani attended a ceremony to launch the quality mark with HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and Engineer Mohammed bin Saud Al Musallam, Chairman of the Qatar General Organisation for Standardisation and Metrology (QGOSM).

Authorities in Qatar have decided to introduce the Quality Mark as part of the country's framework to improve the quality of local products, assert the quality of local products in regional and global markets, support development plans, and offer further consumer protection.

A presentation was given on the Qatar Quality Mark showing its benefits for both consumers and producers. Also shown was the mechanism for conforming the commodity to all approved standard specifications, as well as the benefit of increasing competitive opportunities among local companies.

At the moment, the Qatar Quality Mark is an optional certification placed on a product, proving its compliance with approved national standards, and that it has been examined and tested by an internationally recognised certified laboratory.

The Qatar Quality Mark is granted by Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM), and can be used to advertise the licensed product across any media channel during the period of validity of the license. The mark indicates that

the product has been approved under the quality control mechanisms in place and is affixed to the commodity either by way of a sticker or by engraving it directly on to the product. The mark must be affixed such that it is difficult to remove, and can be attached to the commodity's packaging in the event that the commodity does not allow the mark to be placed directly to it.

In order to obtain the mark, the facility manufacturing the product must fulfil a number of conditions and standards stipulated in the Qatar Quality Mark regulations, which have been adopted under international requirements. The license to use the Qatar quality mark is valid for a renewable period of two years.

The Qatar Quality Mark offers a number of advantages to consumers, as it provides a visible, practical method of identifying those goods that meet pre-determined quality controls, which pose no health or safety risks, and which protects the consumer from potential fraud and deception.

A quality mark is used to confirm that a country has standards and regulations in place which must be met by companies and their products. The attainment of the quality mark will boost consumer confidence in the manufacturer, thereby increasing brand recognition and improving its reputation in the market. This is turn will increase demand for its goods, and provide competitiveness in local markets, as well as increasing the company’s opprtunities to access foreign markets.

Speaking at the ceremony, HE the Minister of Commerce and Industry Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari stated that launching the Qatar Quality Mark was an important step towards promoting the concept

of quality and conforming to approved specifications in the country. Getting the Qatar Quality Mark is the ultimate proof of efficiency and quality for national companies, and supports the ability to continue upgrading their products in accordance with the specifications and standards in place in the country.

HE the minister lauded the efforts of QGOSM in supporting and developing national institutions and establishments, and for encouraging them to begin applying the national standards and best international practices for products.

The Chairman of QGOSM Engineer Muhammad bin Saud Muhammad Al Musallam stated that the Qatar Quality Mark will enhance the competitiveness of products in the local, regional and global markets.

It is understood that the first phase will see Qatar focus on awarding the quality mark to national manufacturers in Qatari factories. The second phase will be dedicated to other countries who wish to apply for the quality mark. A technical profile must be submitted to QGOSM, and needs to include details such as product specifications, workforce, production processes, and any other quality certification that has been awarded.

About Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology

The Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology was established under Emiri Decree No 44 of 2014 and is currently affiliated to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. Core functions include:

• Issuing, approving, reviewing, amending and monitoring the implementation of standards

and technical regulations with regard to goods, products and services.

• The establishment of a national system of measurement and supervising its implementation to ensure the high quality and safety of products, commodities and materials by adopting new trends and developments.

• Participating in relevant international and regional organisations.

• Granting licences to use the Qatar Quality Mark and other conformity certificates.

• Testing products, commodities and raw materials.

• Providing calibration, control and supervision of measuring instruments and practices.

• Controlling the quality of precious metals and jewellery by assaying and hallmarking.

• Operating the Qatari National IEC Committee, the WTO/TBT/SPS National Enquiry Point and Notification Authority for the State of Qatar. m

HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Minister of Commerce and Industry, said the launch of the Qatar Quality Mark represents an important step in supporting national industries and enhancing the production and export capacity of private companies.

During the ceremony, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior granted the Qatar Quality Mark to Al Qataria for Production of Reinforcing Steel (QSTEEL), the first facility that has successfully fulfilled the criteria for obtaining the mark, from among the many organisations that have applied for it. He expressed his confidence in the ability of all national companies to produce quality products by applying Qatari standards.

The Hydrocarbon Industry

Qatar has the world's third largest proven natural gas reserve and is the second-largest exporter of natural gas, according to the CIA World Factbook. Petroleum and natural gas are the basis of Qatar's economy: more than 70% of total government revenue, over 60% of gross domestic product, and around 85% of export earnings.

The State continues to focus on the energy sector as an important source of national revenue, increasing natural gas production levels and supplying 25% of the world’s total liquefied natural gas (LNG). This has positioned Qatar as the largest producer and exporter of LNG in the world and provides one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. This is due in part to the completion of Phase 1 of Qatargas' North Field gas development in 1991, leading to exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The North Field Expansion Project – the industry's largest ever LNG project – looks to boost production and revenues even further.

Many projects are joint ventures between the national corporation, QatarEnergy, and international entities. Under Qatarisation, joint venture industries and government departments aim to place Qatari nationals in senior management positions, an initiative that has been embraced by the hydrocarbon sector.

Qatar was a member of OPEC for nearly 60 years until January 2019. HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and President and CEO of QatarEnergy, stated at the time that Qatar’s exit from OPEC was 'not political' and that 'the withdrawal decision reflects Qatar’s desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 mn tonnes per year to 110 mn tonnes in the coming years.' Qatar is the first Gulf country to leave OPEC.

Qatar's Energy Companies QatarEnergy

Formerly known as Qatar Petroleum, the company rebranded in late 2021 to reflect its new vision of adapting its direction and strategic objectives. The integrated national oil corporation is responsible for the sustainable development of Qatar’s oil and gas resources. QatarEnergy (QE) is also spearheading the energy and industry sector’s Strategic Qatarisation Plan to maximise the employment of Qatari nationals.

The first well, Dukhan 1, was drilled in 1939. In 1949 the first crude exports began and the first offshore concessions were granted. In 1960, Idd Al Shargi and Maydan Mahzam fields were discovered. The largest offshore field, Bul Hanine, was discovered in 1970 and came onstream in 1972.

QatarEnergy’s activities encompass the entire oil and gas value chain locally, regionally, and internationally, and include the exploration, refining, production, marketing and sales of oil and gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas liquids (NGL), gas-to-liquids (GTL) products, refined products, petrochemicals, fertilisers, steel and aluminium. Operations are onshore at Doha, Dukhan, Mesaieed Industrial City and Ras Laffan Industrial City, as well as offshore at Halul Island, offshore production stations, drilling platforms, and the North Field.

QE has signed Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements and Development and Production

Sharing Agreements with major international oil and gas companies, including Elf Aquitaine/Total, Anadarko Qatar, Maersk Oil Qatar, Occidental Petroleum Qatar, Qatar Petroleum Development, Talisman Energy Qatar, GDF Suez, China National Offshore Oil Corp and Qatar Shell.

The Hydrocarbon Industry

Ongoing projects include:

• The Barzan Gas Project to develop approximately 1.9 bn cubic feet per day (cfpd) of North Field wellhead gas, and 1.4 bn cfpd of sales gas for the domestic market in addition to associated condensate ethane, LPG and sulfur.

• Redevelopment of the Bul Hanine offshore oil field to prolong the field’s life by countering production decline and doubling oil production.

• A new Petrochemicals Complex in Ras Laffan Industrial City with partner Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LLC. The USD6 bn complex will have an ethane cracker with a nameplate capacity of 1.9 mn tons of ethylene per annum, making it the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world.

• The North Field Expansion Project, with four new LNG trains to raise LNG production capacity from 77 mn tons per annum (MTPA) to 110 MTPA, as well as 4,000 tons per day (tpd) of ethane, 260,000 barrels per day (bpd) of condensate, 11,000 tpd of LPG, and approximately 20 tpd of pure helium.

QatarEnergy’s Industrial Cities Directorate

QatarEnergy's Industrial Cities are developed and operated according to international standards for the sector, with a focus on health and safety and sustainable development practices.

Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLIC) is 80 km from Doha along the northeast coast. It was established in 1996 and is now one of the fastest-growing industrial cities in the world. Industries in RLIC: Qatargas, Pearl GTL and Oryx GTL, Al Khaleej Gas, Dolphin Energy Limited, Laffan Refinery 1 & 2, Ras Laffan Olefins Company, Ras Laffan Helium, Qatar Power, Ras Girtas Power and Ras Laffan Power, and Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard.

Mesaieed Industrial City (MIC), 40 km south of Doha, is a hub for petrochemicals, chemical fertilisers, oil refining and metallurgical industries. Industries in MIC: QE Mesaieed Refinery, Qatar Petrochemical Co, Qatar Fertiliser Co, Qatar Chemical Co, Qatar Steel, Qatar Aluminium Co, Qatar Vinyl Co and Qatar Fuel Additives Co.

Dukhan Concession Area (DCA) is 80 km west of Doha and produces about 180,000 bpd of oil. Crude oil is exported through the terminal operations department at Mesaieed and also supplied to the QE Refinery, while condensates are sent to the QE Refinery in Mesaieed.

Al Kharsaah Solar PV Power Plant (KSPP), inaugurated by the Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in October 2022, is 80 km west of Doha, and is the first in Qatar and one of the largest in the region, with a total capacity of 800 megawatts (MW). KSPP covers 10 sq km with more than 1.8 mn solar panels utilising tracking technology to follow the sun's movement to maximise daily production. Robotic arms and treated water clean the solar panels at night to boost production efficiency. The power plant has been developed and is operated by Siraj 1, which is jointly owned 40% by a consortium formed by TotalEnergies (49%) and Marubeni (51%) and 60% by QE Renewable Solutions. The project includes a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement between Siraj 1 and Kahramaa. KSPP can supply 10% of the country's peak power consumption and will avoid 26 mn tons of CO2 emissions during its lifetime. qatarenergy.qa

North Oil Company (NOC)

A joint venture to operate and further develop the Al Shaheen oil field for the next 25 years, owned by QE (70%) and Total (30%). Al Shaheen oil field is in Qatari waters 80 km north of Ras Laffan with 33 platforms and more than 300 wells, producing around 300,000 barrels of oil per day from Qatar’s largest offshore oil field and one of the largest offshore oil fields in the world. noc.qa

ORYX GTL Ltd

Established in 2003 to develop, construct, and operate Qatar’s first GTL plant, converting natural gas into high quality GTL products including diesel, naphtha, and LPG. ORYX GTL is a 51:49 joint venture between QE and Sasol Middle East and India, manufacturing more than 32,400 bpd of high specification GTL diesel, naphtha and LPG. The naphtha is exported from Ras Laffan and marketed by Qatar International Petroleum Marketing Co (Tasweeq) to customers in the Middle East and Far East. oryxgtl.com.qa

QatarEnergy (QE) will be taking over all marketing and related activities currently managed by Qatargas. This integration is expected to be completed by the end of 2023, and makes QE the single point of responsibility for customers who wish to purchase Qatar's energy products.

Qatargas

The largest LNG producer in the world, operating 14 LNG trains with a total annual production capacity of 77 MTPA. Established in 1984, the first production was in 1996. Qatargas now delivers cargos to 31 countries to meet the world’s demand for safe, reliable and clean energy. Additionally, Qatargas is a leading exporter of natural gas, helium, condensate and associated products. Qatargas also operates the Jetty BoilOff Gas facility, Al Khaleej Gas, Barzan Gas, Ras Laffan Helium, the two Laffan Refineries (among the largest condensate refineries in the world), and the Ras Laffan Terminal. qatargas.com

Qatar Chemical Company Ltd (Q-Chem)

Owned by Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Company QSC (MPHC) (49%), Chevron Phillips Chemical International Qatar Holdings LLC (49%), and QE (2%). MPHC is majority owned by QE. The Q-Chem facility produces high- and medium-density polyethylene (HDPE and MDPE), 1-hexene and other products, using technology provided by Chevron Phillips Chemical.

The Q-Chem complex in MIC has a production capacity of 453,000 MTA of polyethylene and a production capacity 47,000 MTA of 1-hexene. The adjacent Q-Chem II facility produces 350,000 MTA of HDPE. Ras Laffan Olefins Company Ltd, owned by Q-Chem II, Qatofin and QE, produces 1.3 MTPA of ethylene cracker and is operated by Q-Chem II. qchem.com.qa

Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO)

Incepted in 1969 as a joint venture company to produce chemical fertilisers, the first significant step in Qatar’s industrial diversification programme to utilise its abundant natural gas resources. QAFCO is now owned by Industries Qatar (IQ) (75%) and Yara Nederland BV (25%). The majority of IQ shares are owned by QE, making QE the ultimate parent of the company.

QAFCO inaugurated its first plant in 1973. Today there are six ammonia and six urea completely integrated trains, a melamine plant and two urea formaldehyde plants. QAFCO is the world’s largest single-site producer of ammonia and urea, with an annual production capacity of 3.8 mn metric tonnes (MT) of ammonia and 5.6 mn MT of urea, exported via Muntajat Co. QAFCO also has two urea formaldehyde plants producing 60,000 MTPA of UFC85, the anti caking agent vital to urea production. The Qatar Melamine Plant is the largest in the Middle East and one of the largest in the world, with a production capacity of 60,000 MTPA qafco.com

Qatar Fuel Additives Company Limited (QAFAC)

A Qatari joint stock company operating facilities at MIC for the production of methanol and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). Since the 1960s methanol has been produced from petroleum, naphtha and natural gas, and is a clean energy source and raw material for many everyday items. The QAFAC methanol plant can produce 2,950 metric tons a day of US Federal Grade AA methanol from the natural gas provided by QE. The majority is exported to the Far East, Europe, India and the GCC region.

The QAFAC MTBE plant produces around 1,830 metric tons a day by processing methanol from the on-site methanol plant and field butane from QE. It is then used by the QE Refinery at Mesaieed to replace lead in Qatar's gasoline. The main international markets are the Far East, Europe, South America and the GCC. qafac.com.qa

Qatar Fuel Company (WOQOD) QPSC

Distributes fuel products within Qatar – diesel and gasoline, marine fuel and aviation fuel – with fuel distribution depots in Mesaimeer and Ras Laffan. WOQOD has a fleet of road tankers, an extensive network of petrol stations, and vessels for supplying marine fuel. Qatar was the first GCC country to convert to fully unleaded gasoline and WOQOD’s diesel has the lowest sulfur content in the region. WOQOD also fulfils Qatar's energy needs with ecofriendly fuel products like LPG and compressed natural gas, and has also diversified into retail marketing with Sidra convenience stores at their fuel stations. woqod.com.qa

Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO)

Established in 1974 and a joint venture between IQ (80%) and TotalEnergies (20%). QAPCO is one of the largest manufacturers of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in the region. Joint ventures include Qatar Vinyl Co, Qatofin Co Ltd, and Qatar Plastic Products Co.

QAPCO main facilities consist of an ethylene plant (cracker) with a production capacity of up to 830,000 MTPA, three LDPE plants with a total combined production capacity of over 795,000 MTPA, and a sulfur plant with a production capacity of up to 70,000 MTPA. As by-products, the ethylene plant produces LPG with an annual capacity of up to 55,000 MTA and hydrogenated pyrolysis gasoline with a capacity of up to 45,000 MTA. qapco.com

Qatar Plastic & Wooden Products Co (QPPC)

Established in 1998 with commercial production commencing in 2000. The company is owned by shareholders QAPCO and Qatar Industrial Manufacturing Co. Around 90% of production is

sold domestically with the remainder marketed in other Gulf countries and Europe. The production facility is located at MIC, producing plastic film for industrial packaging. The company produces form, fill and seal film, shrinkable film and hood, construction foil, greenhouse and agricultural film, general purpose film, heavy duty trash bags, and wood-plastic composite.

Qatar Wooden Products Co commenced commercial production in 2013, a fully automatic wooden pallet production line and heat treatment facility able to produce 1.6 mn wooden pallets a year for QAPCO and other petrochemical companies. qppc.net

Ras Laffan Power Company Limited QPSC (RLPC)

Established in 2001 and the provider of electricity and water in Qatar. RLPC is a joint venture company owned by Qatar Electricity & Water Co (80%), QE (10%) and Gulf Investment Corporation of Kuwait (10%). RLPC has a 25-year Power and Water Purchase Agreement with Kahramaa and a 25-year Fuel and Seawater Supply Agreement with QE. The RLPC plant at RIC contributes 18% of the country’s power supply and 23% of the country’s water supply and is operated by Ras Laffan Operating Co WLL. rlpc.net

International Companies

ConocoPhillips

The world’s largest independent exploration and production company based on proved reserves and production of liquids and natural gas with operations and activities in 20 countries. In Qatar, the ConocoPhillips Global Water Sustainability Center at Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) focuses on innovative solutions to treat produced water from the oil and gas industry as well as desalination, recycling, awareness and conservation. CSR in Qatar includes the Kulluna Health and Safety campaign, in partnership with Hamad Medical Corporation. conocophillips.com

ExxonMobil

One of the largest publicly traded international energy refiners and chemical companies. In Qatar, ExxonMobil has partnered with QE to develop the North Field, participating in 12 of the current 14 LNG trains, 27 of the world’s largest LNG ships, and Qatar’s largest condensate refinery. ExxonMobil is the only foreign participant in Al Khaleej Gas and Barzan Gas domestic gas projects. ExxonMobil also has partnered with QE in two LNG receiving terminals in Europe, an export terminal in the US, and in energy projects around the world. The company provides technical and management expertise to QE through technical services and

secondments of ExxonMobil employees, while the ExxonMobil Research Qatar at QSTP conducts research in areas of mutual interest. exxonmobil.com.qa

Sasol

An international integrated chemicals and energy company that develops and commercialises technologies, and builds and operates world-scale facilities to produce a range of high-value product streams, including liquid fuels, chemicals and low-carbon electricity. In Qatar, Sasol is a 49% shareholder with QE in ORYX GTL, which uses Sasol proprietary GTL technology to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products. sasol.com

Shell

The largest international investor in Qatar. QE and Shell have jointly delivered two of the largest energy projects in the world in RLIC. Pearl Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) is the world’s largest GTL plant, costing USD19 bn, and the largest single investment in the Shell Group’s global portfolio. The Qatargas 4 LNG project (QE 70%, Shell 30%) combines Shell’s global leadership in LNG with Qatar’s position as the world’s largest LNG supplier. The Qatar Shell Research & Technology Centre at QSTP is a world-class research and development facility and learning centre, with USD100 mn invested on programmes in support of energy and the environment. shell.qa

TotalEnergies

A broad energy company that produces and markets oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables, and electricity. Active in more than 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the wellbeing of people. In Qatar, TotalEnergies has been present since 1936, and is active in all areas of Qatar’s oil and gas sector – from exploration and production to refining, petrochemicals, marketing of lubricants, and solar energy. totalenergies.qa m

Infrastructure in Qatar

gas and petrochemicals industries. However the government is diversifying economic development elsewhere, especially in view of fluctuating oil prices.

Spending on infrastructural projects continues to be a focus in the State Budget for 2023, building on the success of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, and also for the education and healthcare sectors – see Economy in this section for details.

Conferences and Exhibitions

Qatar National Vision

As arguably the world’s fastest-growing economy, Qatar recognises the importance of diversification and sustainability. It also acknowledges the inherent challenges of a rapidly-increasing population, further industrialisation, and the resultant need for an ever-expanding infrastructure.

To manage these challenges in effectively, Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 was first published in 2008. Based on the guiding principles of the Permanent Constitution, it defines the nation’s medium-to-long-term objectives and creates a framework for sustainable national strategies.

QNV 2030 rests on four pillars – Human, Social, Economic and Environmental Development – each with clearly defined individual long-term outcomes yet important inter-relationships.

Under QNV 2030, all new projects should provide a high standard of living for future generations, with investments in education, research, healthcare, transport and industry, to enable Qatar to sustain its own development by 2030. Plans include an integrated transport system, a major overhaul of roads and highways, drainage and sewage, and the renovation of downtown Doha.

The first wave of specific actions and targets were defined in the Qatar National Development Strategy (NDS) 2011–2016. NDS 2018–2022 has seen many of its goals achieved, despite exposure to abnormal conditions like fluctuating oil prices and the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA) has begun preparing NDS 2023–2030.

Economic Strategy

Qatar’s economic development aims to create and sustain a competitive and diversified economy capable of meeting the needs of, and securing a high standard of living for, its population now and in the future. The economy has historically been significantly boosted by growth in the oil,

Annual business conferences and exhibitions include Project Qatar, Build Your House Exhibition, QITCOM, Cityscape Qatar, Arab Future Cities Summit, Green Building Expo, World Stadium Congress, and trade summits.

Aiming to be an influential player in the region’s MICE market, the first major facility opened in 2011. The Qatar National Convention Centre, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and located in Education City, is one of the largest, most technologically advanced venues in the Middle East, employing environmental and sustainability best practices including LEED gold certification. Designed by Arata Isozaki, the award-winning venue features a 3D representation of the Sidra tree, symbol of QF. The 200,000 sq m venue has a 40,000 sq m exhibition space, a conference hall for 3,800 delegates and a 2,300-seat theatre.

The 47,700 sq m Doha Exhibition and Convention Center opened its doors in 2015. The building includes a state-of-the-art exhibition hall, modular wall system, and high-tech meeting and conference rooms. Located in Al Dafna, the venue has five exhibition halls, which can be used as one 29,000 sq m hall thanks to a unique wall partition system. The 18-metre high ceiling is supported by a revolutionary cantilever roof and is pillar-free.

Spectacular Buildings

Dramatic changes to Doha’s skyline have seen glass and concrete towers built with materials imported from all over the world.

The population has increased from nearly 1.7 mn in 2010 to around 3 mn in May 2023, with people mainly living in and around Doha. Just 50+ years ago the 20,000 population of Doha lived and worked in single or two-storey structures on the narrow streets of what was just a small town on the southern shore of Doha Bay.

In the 1970s, as the country changed from fishing and pearl diving to oil production and export, the decision was taken to reshape Doha Bay, extend the waterfront and expand the town area by

TSE Seasonal Storage Lagoons Project Phase 1 (Ashghal)

reclaiming land. The area now known as Al Dafna (or ‘West Bay’) was dredged from the sea and the first building was the iconic Sheraton hotel. Demand for town centre real estate has grown, with more luxurious living and working environments, forcing the city upwards. The traditional inwardlooking, small-windowed, courtyard dwellings –cooled naturally or via a wind tower and vented walls – reflect the limitations of building materials and technology at the time. Now developments in glass technology and energy-efficient, eco-friendly air conditioning allows Qatar to build green.

Developments to Infrastructure

Qatar continues to undertake projects to satisfy QNV 2030 and the football event's legacy mode, good news for both local and international businesses.

Qatar is increasingly adopting sustainable practices and green building standards. Efforts like the implementation of the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) developed by the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) oversees sustainable construction. According to GSAS, 75% of solid waste comes from construction and demolition; if the GSAS construction management system is adopted, 59% of the total solid waste generated in Qatar could be diverted.

GSAS has been incorporated into Qatar Construction Specifications and it is mandatory for all private and public sector projects to get GSAS certification. GSAS partners include Qatar Rail, Ashghal, Qatar Foundation, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the Primary Health Care Corporation, Kahramaa and Qatar Museums. gsas.gord.qa

The State Budget for 2023 was announced in December 2022, with figures based on an average oil price of USD65 a barrel, up from USD55 in the 2022 budget. The total revenue estimate is QAR228 bn, a 16.3% increase compared to 2022. Expenditures will decrease by 2.6% to QAR199 bn, due to an end in expenses for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The State will continue work on development projects related to infrastructure, citizens’ land development and public services, with 22 new projects to be implemented in 2023 at a cost of QAR9.8 bn. Read more about the 2023 State Budget in Economy, in this section.

Public Works Authority ashghal.gov.qa

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) was established in 2004 for the planning, design, procurement, construction, delivery, and asset management of all infrastructure projects and public buildings in Qatar. Ashghal strives to incorporate sustainability and environmental protection in its projects, as part of its commitment to play a vital role in QNV 2030.

Ashghal launched its Corporate Strategy 2018–2022 under the authority's new vision ‘Excellence in delivering and managing efficient sustainable infrastructure’, with 10 objectives to accomplish its mission of ‘continuously enhancing customer satisfaction through leading project and asset management services and solutions’.

Ashghal’s key infrastructure projects include: Expressway Programme; Local Areas Infrastructure Programme; Drainage Networks; Buildings; and Projects of the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar. In 2023, Ashghal has tendered new projects to include 22 buildings with an approximate value of QAR4.1 bn. Ten projects are under implementation, including the development of Hamad General Hospital, the establishment of the Madinat Khalifa Health Center and Qatar Sidra Academy, and the rehabilitation of the Ministry of Municipality's veterinary laboratory building. There are six other projects under design, which includes the courts complex and the Court of Appeal and Cassation, the main post office building in Thumama and the land transport customs building.

Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation km.com.qa

The corporation, known as Kahramaa, was established in 2000 under the Ministry of Energy and Industry to regulate and maintain the supply of electricity and water to its customers. Kahramaa transferred ownership of its stations to Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC) in 2002.

The public-private partnership (PPP) law, approved by the Cabinet in 2019, also supports projects connected to QNV 2030. The PPPs will be used for a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, sports, real estate and infrastructure.

In 2018 the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, assumed responsibility for Kahramaa as part of his remit to oversee the regular and sustainable supply of energy, power and water for domestic purposes.

Kahramaa has spent QAR38 bn to meet increasing demands to the electricity and water supply, with a further QAR6 bn to be invested after 2022. This includes five mega water reservoirs to be online by 2026 providing storage for 2,300 mn gallons of water, while the power generation phase will produce 2,520 megawatts of electricity. The plant will add around 30% water and 25% electricity of local demand once fully completed.

Installed under the Smart Metering Infrastructure Project, 600,000 advanced digital meters will allow customers to monitor their consumption. This is in line with the corporation's National Program for Conservation and Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed), which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2022 and saved QAR4 bn during its second phase. The third phase will run from 2022 until 2030.

In 2020, Kahramaa awarded a QAR1.7 bn contract to develop the country’s first utility-scale solar PV project to Japan’s Marubeni and France’s TotalEnergies. The 800MW solar PV independent power producer scheme is on a 10 sq km plot in Al Kharsaah, west of Doha. The project is owned and operated by Siraj 1 SPV, a consortium owned by TotalEnergies & Marubeni (40%) and Siraj Energy (60%), the latter being a joint venture between QatarEnergy and QEWC. The solar power plant was inaugurated in October 2022. It is expected to generate almost 2,000,000 MWh during its first year, the energy consumption of approximately 55,000 households, and reduce 26 mn tonnes of CO2 during its lifetime.

Selected Megaprojects in Qatar

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Legacy Mode qatar2022.qa

Previously known as the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) signed stakeholder agreements with Qatar Rail, Ashghal, Kahramaa, Aspire Zone Federation and Qatari Diar, for projects to deliver the infrastructure for the event.

The stadiums were designed by the world's leading architects, reflecting aspects of Qatari culture, and taking into consideration three priorities: access and comfort, sustainability, and post-tournament legacy. Eight stadiums welcomed the world in November/December 2022:

• Khalifa International Stadium

• Al Janoub Stadium

• Education City Stadium

• Al Thumama Stadium • Stadium 974 (previously Ras Abu Aboud Stadium) • Lusail Stadium. Sustainability was an integral part of the project, with FIFA, SC and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22) continuously updating stakeholders on tournament sustainability efforts. Optimum dustcontrol strategies were followed to reduce air pollution during construction, achieving a minimum four-star rating under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) for design, construction and facility management, in addition to obtaining a gold certificate for its operations. More than 80% of waste from the stadiums, some 2,000 tonnes, was recycled or composted during the event.

Much of the State Budget was previously devoted towards stadium construction and associated infrastructure. Expenditure will now be allocated towards fulfilling legacy plans to create unique community hubs around the stadiums. The designs of the stadiums enable them to be easily converted into public facilities after the tournament and for parts of the stadiums to be sent overseas to those countries in need of sports infrastructure.

The World Cup's first temporary stadium, Stadium 974, will be entirely dismantled, while Lusail Stadium will have most of its seats stripped away and repurposed. The upper tiers will be transformed into housing, and the pitch will be used for community games.

Al Bayt Stadium, the second largest, will have the upper tiers removed and replaced by a hotel, shopping centre and sports medicine hospital. Ahmad bin Ali, Al Janoub and Al Thumama Stadiums will have capacity cut to 20,000 spectators. Ahmad bin Ali Stadium will become home to Al Rayyan FC, while Al Wakra FC will move to Al Janoub Stadium. Education City Stadium will also be cut to 20,000 capacity and become a sports ground for university students.

There is already much in use in the precincts at Al Janoub, Al Bayt and Ahmad Bin Ali Stadiums. On Qatar National Sport Day 2020, public parks at Al Janoub and Al Bayt opened with vast green spaces, children’s play areas, exercise stations, restaurants, and cycling tracks. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is the home of Al Rayyan Sports Club, enabling amateur athletes and the public to use the running and cycling tracks, cricket pitches, tennis court and padel courts, outdoor gym facilities, skate park and aquatics centre.

• Al Bayt Stadium

• Ahmad bin Ali Stadium

Only Khalifa International Stadium will remain as it is. Originally built in 1976 and having received a number of upgrades, it will continue to host more international sporting events.

Qatar Integrated Rail Project corp.qr.com.qa

Following its establishment in 2011, Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail) is leading one of the largest rail projects in the world to meet the demands of Qatar’s dynamic and growing population. The company is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the entire network and systems.

The state-of-the-art railway network currently consists of Doha Metro, a rapid transit system connecting communities within Doha and its suburbs, and Lusail Tram, a service for convenient travel within the new city of Lusail.

The Doha Metro: Three lines cover the Greater Doha area with connections to commercial and residential areas throughout the city. In central Doha, the Metro network is mainly underground, while at the outskirts it is at ground level or elevated. The main interchange is at Msheireb Downtown Doha. Conducted over multiple phases, phase one has three lines now open to the public:

• The Red Line runs from Al Wakra in the south to Lusail City in the north, with a connection to Hamad International Airport and transfer to the Lusail Tram at Legtaifiya and Lusail stations.

• The Green Line runs east from Al Riffa to Al Mansoura in the west.

• The Gold Line runs from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziya.

Lusail Tram: An integrated transportation system serving Lusail City, a state-of-the art tram based system connecting major points of interest in the city. The tram is designed to travel on streets, sharing road-space with other traffic and pedestrians. The project has four lines and 25 stations, with two interchange stations allowing passengers to access the Doha Metro.

Lusail City lusail.com

One of the largest projects in Qatar costing an estimated QAR163.8 bn, Lusail City is developed by Lusail Real Estate Development Company (LREDC), a subsidiary of the Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, itself a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority. Spanning 38 sq km north of Doha, Lusail City is planned to accommodate more than 450,000 residents and visitors.

Launched in 2004, features include residential and commercial areas, parks, marinas, five-star hotels, a luxury mall, beach clubs, a waterpark, supermarkets and abundant dining options. Read more about Lusail City in Discovering Qatar

Msheireb Downtown Doha msheireb.com

The flagship project of Msheireb Properties,

a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, the QAR20 bn restoration of a 31 hectare site.

Msheireb means ‘a place to drink water’ in Arabic, and is the historical name of downtown Doha. The 'smart city with soul' is aiming for Gold or Platinum LEED Certification. The Doha Design District, a new design and innovation hub, will grant free zone status to occupants from a multitude of business sectors.

MDD is divided into five broad quarters, with hospitality, retail, residential and commercial areas. Barahat Msheireb is the region’s largest covered public square, anchored by the Cultural Forum and the Mandarin Oriental Doha hotel. The Heritage quarter features four historic houses that have been restored and turned into museums. The Diwan Amiri quarter comprises the Diwan Annexe, Amiri Guard building and Qatar National Archive, while Sikkat Wadi Msheireb is fully pedestrianised between the Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery Hotel Collection and the Park Hyatt Hotel.

MDD is the central interchange for the Doha Metro, with other methods of transportation underground for a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The MDD tram is available to transport visitors. Read more about MDD in Discovering Qatar

Hamad International Airport dohahamadairport.com

Qatar's world-leading Hamad International Airport revealed plans for its second expansion phase in 2019. Phase A comprised the central concourse linking concourses D and E, and the opening of The Oryx Garden Hotel. This phase officially opened in October 2022, allowing annual passenger handling capacity to increase to 58 mn.

Phase B, the final expansion phase, will begin in January 2023 and is expected to be completed within the next two and a half years. This will extend concourses D and E to increase capacity to over 70 mn passengers per annum. Features include an indoor tropical garden, a water feature, landscaped retail and F&B spaces and a new world-class lounge. The expansion also includes the construction of a new cargo terminal, which will boost handling capacity to a 3.2 mn tonnes per annum. The terminal is expected to be ready by 2023.

The airport works with the Ministry of Municipality to achieve goals under Qatar National Vision 2030. This includes improving carbon efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and modernising the waste management process.

New Year New Buildings

By Ola Diab

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) in Qatar has announced the launch of 22 new projects worth a whopping QAR4.1 bn (USD1.12 bn) in 2023.

Ashghal will continue to tender more infrastructure and public buildings projects in the third quarter of this year.

According to Engineer Yousef Al Emadi, Director of Projects Affairs at Ashghal, out of these projects, six have already been awarded and 10 are currently in the process of implementation, with an estimated value of over QAR3 bn (USD822 mn).

These projects include the development of Hamad General Hospital, the building of Madinat Khalifa Health Centre, Qatar Academy Sidra, and the Ministry of Municipality’s Veterinary Laboratories.

The six projects are worth an estimated QAR1.1 bn (USD302 mn) and include the construction and development of several buildings in coordination with various authorities.

Al Emadi also announced that design plans have commenced for several upcoming projects, including the Court Complex and Court of Cassation, Al Thumama Main Post Office Building, and the Road Transport Customs Building.

The projects that are currently under design include two court complexes and the Court of Appeal and Cassation, which was recently announced for a design competition to obtain the most beautiful architectural idea.

New courts

In May 2023, Ashghal in coordination with the Supreme Judiciary Council, announced the launch of a design competition for the establishment of eight new courts, including the court complex project and the Court of Cassation project, to obtain the best architectural idea, within the framework of the state’s plan to develop justice systems and services.

The Court of Cassation is the highest court in the Qatari judicial system. It is responsible for deciding on the appeals filed against the judgment issued from the Court of Appeal. The Constitutional Court was established by virtue of Law No 6 of 2007 and forms a division of the Court of Cassation.

The projects to establish the new Court Complex and Court of Cassation complements Ashghal’s new plan to continue its projects and implement Qatar National Vision 2030. The project is slated for completion by the end of fourth quarter of 2026, costing QAR254.8 mn (USD70 mn).

The Court Complex and Court of Cassation project extends to an area of approximately 50,000 sq m in Wadi Al Sail, while the Court Complex in Wadi Al Banat is located on an area of approximately 100,000 sq m to include seven courts, including the Criminal Court, Family Court, Traffic Court, Investment and Trade Court, Civil and Court of First Instance, along with the Enforcement Court.

According to Engineer Jaralla Mohammed Al Marri, Director of Buildings Projects Department, the new courts are of particular importance as most courts will be under one roof, which would facilitate litigation proceedings. The project will also serve the justice system by providing modern means and systems of litigation that shorten the time of case handling, as well as providing trading rooms equipped with all the technologies and other important means.

According to Engineer Fatma Al Meer, the design tender of the competition launched by Ashghal was the first of its kind aimed at obtaining the best architectural idea that meets the functional purposes of all the needs of the new courts.

The Ports of Qatar

By Ola Diab

Qatar has invested in the development of world-class ports such as Hamad Port, Doha Port and Al Ruwais Port. To showcase that development and the maritime history of Qatar, Mwani Qatar has opened the new Hamad Port Visitors Centre.

Qatar is one of the fastest-growing economies and highest GDPs in the world. Its economic prosperity is hinged on its petroleum, natural gas and oil industries, and the country is one of the biggest LNG exporters in the world.

As a peninsula, Qatar is surrounded by the waters of the Arabian Gulf, allowing various entry and exit points to and from Qatar. The country has invested in the development of world-class port facilities and its maritime trade sector has strengthened manifold as it has opened new trade routes and diversified its supply sources.

The world’s biggest shipping corporations operate in almost all of Qatar’s ports and terminals. The country is home to at least five major ports: Hamad Port, Doha Port, Mesaieed Port, Ras Laffan Port and Al Ruwais Port. Qatar’s largest ports – Hamad Port, Doha Port and Al Ruwais Port – are operated by Mwani Qatar.

Mwani Qatar is responsible for managing the nation’s seaports and shipping terminals, but the integrated port and logistics services provider is also playing a more pivotal role. By substantially developing Hamad Port, the company is not only strongly positioned to develop a regional shipping hub in the region, but also to play a major role in diversifying the Qatari economy ready for a post-hydrocarbon future.

Hamad Port

Located south of Doha in Umm Al Houl, Hamad Port is the world's largest greenfield port-development project, constructing a new world-class commercial port in Qatar. Although operations of Hamad Port commenced in December 2016, the official inauguration of the port took place on 5 September 2017 under the auspices of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Managed by Mwani Qatar, under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, Hamad Port is one of the largest ports in the Middle East with annual capacity of 7.5 mn 20-foot equivalent unit (TEU) and is a long-term, physical manifestation of Qatar National Vision 2030 – a port focusing on the social, economic, environmental and human development of the nation.

By substantially developing Hamad Port, Mwani Qatar is not only strongly positioned to develop a regional shipping hub in the GCC, but also to play a major role in diversifying the Qatari economy ready for a post-hydrocarbon future.

The multi-billion dollar development does not merely offer expanded capacity in the form of three container terminals, but also brings a host of new, sector-specific capabilities. Alongside general cargo traffic, the port handles a variety of specialist imports including livestock, automobiles, and bulk grain. Alongside this offering, the port will also host a base for offshore and marine support vessels.

Hamad Port covers 28.5 sq km and will have the yearly capacity for 1.7 mn tonnes of general freight and 1 mn tonnes of grain, with a specialist terminal supporting the entry of around 500,000 vehicles per year. The first of the three container terminals is currently operational and has an optimum capacity of 2 mn TEUs per year, eventually increasing to over 7.5 mn. This will then be supported by transshipment links by rail, sea and road to the region.

Hamad Port

Hamad Port is already making a paradigm shift in Qatar’s economic diversification and competitiveness, import and re-export of goods.

The oil and gas sector represented through Muntajat exports a number of its shipments via Hamad Port to its final destinations around the world, while Hamad Port is in charge of providing the shipping and unloading services for Muntajat containers from its quays, including product-loaded as well as empty containers. Hamad Port also facilitates and develops the required support services for containers and trunks.

Moreover, the latest technologies for port operation have been applied including the highest standards of safety and security, including a uniquely designed Port Control Tower with a height of 110 m, a customs inspection area for rapid cargo clearance (5,600 containers per day), a ship inspection platform and multiple maritime facilities. As part of Qatar’s major steps toward increasing its non-petroleum exports and building manufacturing industries, a free zone has been established adjacent to Hamad Port. The port has recorded significant milestones, regionally and internationally, in quite a short period of time.

Hamad Port’s strong capabilities, modern facilities, and advanced systems are leading to position Qatar as a re-export hub in the region, increasing the volume of trade between Qatar and the rest of the world.

Hamad Port Visitors Center

The new Hamad Port Visitors Centre, which opened in May 2023, is purpose-built to showcase the maritime history and achievements of Qatar. The centre includes a maritime museum, a 4D cinema, virtual simulators, auditorium, a kids play area and an oceanic aquarium, the first of its kind in Qatar.

The Hamad Port Visitors Centre Aquarium is second-to-none in Qatar. Featuring 17 basins of different sizes, the aquarium displays 80 species of fish and aquatic creatures: 3,063 in total. It will be a fun destination for students and all types

of visitors of all ages to learn more about Qatari marine life and Umm Al Houl environment in general.

The Hamad Port Visitors Centre Maritime Museum was built in an area of 1,284 sq m to tell the fascinating story of Hamad Port, how it operates and its importance in our lives; the story of the shipping containers and containerships; and how Qatar's maritime heritage and trade evolved over the years. The museum also includes simulations where visitors can experience how to dock a ship or lift containers from ships onto the port. There is also a video where visitors can see how the marine life was relocated to create Hamad Port. A total of 4,257 sq m of sea-grass, 139,117 mangroves, 11,595 hard coral colonies and 121 cubic metres of existing reefs were relocated to provide a habitat for resident fish and preserve its ecosystem functionality. The 4D Cinema is distinguished by its 4D technology, where the seats move with effects in the film that highlights the big picture of the nation’s prestigious port and demonstrates the vision, resources and commitment required to deliver the mega-project Hamad Port in a fun and enjoyable way. Expect your seats to shake, move, and be sprayed with water!

The Hamad Port Visitors Centre also has an Auditorium, which is uniquely designed with a highquality sound system, and 200-tiered seats in a fixed theatre-style set-up designed to provide an optimal experience for the visitors. The centre also has a Gift Shop with a wide selection of special local handmade aquatic gifts and souvenirs. Outside the centre is an outdoor kids play area that allows children to further enjoy their time at the centre with recreational games and rides such as swings, slides, climbers, spring riders, merry-go-rounds, and more.

To visit the Hamad Port Visitors Centre, it is necessary to book a ticket online at visitorscenter.mwani.com.qa at QAR50 per person for adults over age 12; QAR30 per person for children between the age of 5 and 12; children below the age of 5 enter for free. For more information, call 4045 3333 or visit mwani.com.qa

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Hamad Port Visitors Centre

Hamad Port Visitors Centre Aquarium