MoCI Signs Strategic Cooperation Agreements with QNB and Doha Bank to Accelerate Investor Services via Single Window
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has signed two strategic cooperation agreements with QNB Group and Doha Bank, marking a significant step toward strengthening public–private sector integration and enhancing investor services through Qatar’s Single Window platform. The agreements were signed by Mubarak Abdulrahman Al Khulaifi, Director of the Single Window Department at MoCI, alongside Ismail Mandani Al Emadi, Executive Vice President of SME Banking at QNB Group, and Yousef Abdullah Al Meer, Deputy Chief of Strategy and Transformation at Doha Bank. Streamlining Company Formation in Qatar Under the agreement, QNB Group will enable eligible investors to open bank accounts directly through the Single Window platform, in line with applicable laws and regulatory procedures. This integration is set to significantly expedite the company formation process, reduce reliance on manual and paper-based transactions, and simplify overall business registration procedures in Qatar. The initiative reinforces QNB’s leadership role in supporting Qatar’s business ecosystem by delivering innovative banking solutions that enhance investor experience and facilitate faster market entry for new companies. Doha Bank Partnership Enhances Investor Journey The agreement with Doha Bank follows the same strategic objective: facilitating bank account opening for companies during their establishment phase via the Single Window platform. By digitising key steps, the partnership aims to accelerate approvals, improve operational efficiency, and support newly established businesses with seamless access to essential banking services. Yousef Abdullah Al Meer noted that the service reflects Doha Bank’s commitment to developing customer-centric solutions, particularly for startups and emerging companies, enabling them to integrate quickly into Qatar’s economic landscape and contribute to national growth. Strengthening the Single Window Platform Mubarak Abdulrahman Al Khulaifi stated that these agreements form part of a broader series of partnerships MoCI is establishing with banks operating in Qatar. The objective is to position the Single Window platform as the primary and comprehensive gateway for investors looking to establish and grow businesses in the country. He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, supporting sustainable economic development through innovation, efficiency, and strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. A Boost to Qatar’s Investment Environment By integrating banking services directly into the Single Window platform, MoCI, QNB Group, and Doha Bank are collectively enhancing Qatar’s attractiveness as an investment destination. The move underscores Qatar’s ongoing commitment to regulatory reform, digital transformation, and building a diversified, innovation-led economy.
Qatar’s Net Wealth Reaches Record $765bn, Underscoring a Shift in Wealth Growth Dynamics
Qatar’s net wealth reached a record high of $765 billion in 2024, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the region’s most resilient and sophisticated wealth markets. According to The Global Wealth Report 2025: Rethinking the Rules for Growth by Boston Consulting Group, Qatar’s total financial wealth rose by 4.1% year-on-year, increasing from $408bn in 2023 to $424bn in 2024. While financial assets continued to expand, real assets declined by 6% in 2024, falling to $394bn, reflecting broader global recalibrations in real estate and non-liquid holdings. However, the outlook remains positive, with real assets projected to rebound to $434bn by 2029. Meanwhile, liabilities edged up modestly by 1.8%, rising from $52bn to $53bn, indicating a stable leverage environment. Investable Wealth Set for Strong Expansion One of the most significant findings of the report is the growth trajectory of investable wealth, which is forecast to increase from $324bn in 2024 to $409bn by 2029, representing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8%. Non-investable wealth is expected to grow at a more measured 3% CAGR, yet continues to demonstrate consistent momentum across the forecast period. This evolution highlights a maturing wealth landscape in Qatar, where liquidity, portfolio optimisation, and professional wealth management are playing an increasingly central role. From Market-Led to Capability-Led Growth While wealth continues to rise, the report emphasises that the drivers of growth are fundamentally changing. Historically, firms have relied heavily on favourable market performance, mergers and acquisitions, and aggressive advisor hiring to expand assets under management. However, these levers alone are no longer sufficient. The emerging constraint for many wealth management firms is not market opportunity—but their internal ability to capture and sustain growth. Firms that are gaining traction are those investing decisively in organisational capabilities rather than external expansion alone. Building Internal Engines for Organic Growth According to the report, organic growth is moving to the centre of the performance agenda. Leading firms are differentiating themselves by focusing on four high-impact internal levers: Technology is playing a pivotal role in enabling these shifts—allowing firms to scale advice models, personalise client journeys, and improve productivity across advisory teams. Leadership Insight: A More Sophisticated Wealth Market Commenting on the findings, Lukasz Rey, Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group, noted that Qatar’s wealth sector has reached a new level of maturity. He emphasised that success today is no longer defined by market exposure alone, but by the ability to generate sustainable internal growth. Firms that invest in advisor development, strengthen their market identity, and adopt next-generation client strategies are outperforming peers—not only in revenue growth, but also in achieving higher valuation multiples. Strategic Implications for Qatar’s Wealth Industry As Qatar continues to expand its financial ecosystem in line with national economic diversification goals, the findings signal a clear message for wealth managers, private banks, and financial institutions: future leadership will be defined by capability, not scale alone. With investable wealth accelerating and client expectations evolving, firms that successfully re-engineer their growth models will be best positioned to capitalise on Qatar’s next phase of wealth creation.
MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival 2025 Concludes in Doha, Accelerating Digital Transformation Across the Region
The MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival 2025 successfully concluded its fourth edition at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre (DECC), reinforcing Qatar’s position as a rising hub for digital finance, insurtech innovation, and economic transformation. Over two days, the festival convened global and regional leaders across financial services, insurance, technology, investment, and regulation—uniting the industry to define the future of digital economies across the MENA region. This year marked a milestone with the festival’s expanded dual-focus format, integrating both fintech and insurtech under one powerful platform. Designed as a high-impact B2B matchmaking hub, the event brought together startups, investors, insurers, banks, regulators, and technology providers, advancing a shared mission: to accelerate financial inclusion, strengthen digital capabilities, and foster cross-sector collaboration across MENA. The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by the Director General/CEO of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Federal Republic of Nigeria, who highlighted how AI, mobile technology, open banking, embedded finance, and digital infrastructure are reshaping global financial systems. He emphasised the growth of Bank 4.0, the importance of interoperable innovation, and proposed a unified MENA–Africa Digital Fintech Corridor to enhance connectivity, resilience, and inclusive growth across the Global South. Across the festival, attendees engaged in high-level discussions, fireside chats, and hands-on workshops exploring: Reflecting on the success of the event, Malik Shishtawi, President of the MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival, stated: “This year marked a major milestone as we brought fintech and insurtech innovators together on one stage. The MENA region is undergoing a historic digital transformation—powered by national vision strategies, progressive regulators, and a vibrant ecosystem of innovators. The collaboration and energy we witnessed reaffirm that this region is actively shaping the global future of financial and insurance technology.” The 2025 edition strengthens Qatar’s role as a regional catalyst for innovation, economic diversification, and digital transformation, fully aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. For more information on upcoming editions, visit menafintechfestival.com.
Money Expo Qatar 2025 Concludes with 3,500+ Attendees, Reinforcing Doha’s Status as a Regional Financial Powerhouse
The 2nd edition of Money Expo Qatar 2025 successfully concluded at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC), drawing a record-breaking 3,500+ attendees over two dynamic days. The event brought together the Middle East’s most influential traders, fintech innovators, investors, payment solution providers, regulators, and financial institutions, further cementing Qatar’s rise as a premier financial hub. This year’s edition saw high-profile participation from Vantage, Fiper Global, MERCATO Brokers, Pepperstone, and other major global brands. With 35+ leading speakers from across the forex, fintech, crypto, commodities, stock market, and wealth management sectors, Money Expo Qatar delivered high-impact insights into the technologies and policies shaping global finance. Powerful Speaker Sessions That Packed the House Across both days, the conference stage remained a central attraction, featuring voices driving innovation in trading, payments, blockchain, digital assets, compliance, and wealth management. Cross-Border Payments & Market Access: One of the Most Anticipated Sessions The panel “Global Markets, Local Opportunity: Cross-Border Payments & Market Access” featured: The panel explored:
MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival 2025: Qatar Takes Center Stage in Regional Financial Innovation
The MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival 2025 officially opened at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre (DECC), igniting two days of high-impact dialogue, innovation showcases, and strategic collaboration opportunities that are redefining the financial technology and insurance technology landscape across the region. Bringing together global fintech innovators, insurtech leaders, investors, regulators, and policymakers, the festival has quickly established itself as a major platform for advancing the future of finance in Qatar and the wider MENA region. Driving the Future of Financial Innovation in Qatar Day One delivered a dynamic program of keynote speeches, expert-led panels, and immersive workshops. Discussions explored some of the most powerful forces shaping the industry today, including: These conversations highlighted Qatar’s rapidly growing role as a regional hub for digital finance, regtech, blockchain, and AI-driven financial inclusion. What to Expect on Day Two The momentum continues with an exceptional lineup of thought leaders who will dissect the industry’s most transformative topics: Attendees will gain forward-looking insights from industry pioneers shaping the next decade of fintech and insurtech innovation across MENA. A Regional Platform for Growth and Collaboration “As the fintech landscape evolves at an unprecedented pace, our goal is to create a platform that accelerates collaboration, innovation, and regulatory clarity across the MENA region,” said Malik Shishtawi, President of the MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival. “This festival brings together the brightest minds, the most forward-thinking institutions, and the next generation of startups driving the digital economy.” A Cornerstone Event in the Digital Transformation Landscape Since its inception, the MENA Fintech & Insurtech Festival has become one of the region’s most influential events—championing: The 2025 edition reinforces Qatar’s rising position as a strategic center for fintech leadership, insurtech advancement, and digital transformation.
Money Expo Qatar 2025 Opens with a Power-Packed Day 1 — Global Leaders, Breakthrough Conversations & a Thriving Crowd Set the Stage
Money Expo Qatar 2025, the region’s most influential finance, fintech and trading event, kicked off at Hall 2, Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC) with an electric start. Day 1 delivered record-breaking footfall, powerful keynote insights, packed conference rooms, and dynamic interaction across the exhibition floor — firmly reinforcing Qatar’s position as a rising global financial hub. A High-Energy Start to the Middle East’s Largest Finance & Trading Event From the moment doors opened, thousands of traders, investors, fintech leaders, brokers, analysts, wealth managers, and financial institutions filled the venue, eager to engage with innovators shaping the future of trading and digital finance. The conference launched with a robust lineup of global speakers, covering the newest market trends in: Each session attracted standing-room-only crowds, showcasing the hunger for knowledge and the rapid evolution of Qatar’s financial landscape. Exhibition Floor: Innovation, Tech Demos & High-Value Connections Across the exhibition hall, leading international brands demonstrated the most advanced financial technologies: Exhibitors reported exceptional engagement, strong lead generation, and meaningful collaborations, as Qatar’s vibrant trading community continues to expand. Diamond Sponsor Testimonial: A Brilliant Partnership FFA Kings shared their powerful experience as Diamond Sponsor, stating: “Our experience as the Diamond Sponsor at Money Expo Qatar 2025 was phenomenal. The organisers supported us every step of the way, allowing our team to focus on what we do best — connecting with amazing people and generating outstanding leads. It was an advantageous partnership, and we can’t wait to be back next year.” A Milestone Event for Qatar’s Financial Future With retail traders, institutional investors, fintech founders, analysts, and decision-makers from across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, Day 1 highlighted the growing global attention on Qatar’s financial transformation. As the country accelerates its digital economy vision, Money Expo Qatar 2025 stands as a catalyst for:
Money Expo Qatar 2025: The Region’s Premier Financial Event Returns for Its 2nd Edition
Qatar’s Largest Trading & Fintech Gathering Returns—Connect, Innovate, and Lead the Future of Finance The highly anticipated Money Expo Qatar is back for its second edition, set to take place on December 2–3, 2025, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). After a successful debut, this year’s edition promises to be bigger, bolder, and more dynamic, bringing together the most influential names in trading, fintech, and investment from across the Middle East and beyond. Meet Minds. Share Ideas. Shape Finance. Money Expo Qatar 2025 serves as the ultimate meeting point for visionaries, innovators, and financial leaders to connect, collaborate, and chart the next chapter in the evolution of finance.Whether you’re a trader, investor, fintech professional, or entrepreneur, this is the region’s most powerful platform to explore new opportunities and ignite partnerships that define the future. The event gathers a diverse audience, including: What Awaits You at Money Expo Qatar 2025 Engage with Global Leaders Hear from world-renowned financial experts and top industry strategists as they unpack market insights, emerging trends, and the future of trading, digital assets, and fintech innovation. Discover Game-Changing Innovations Experience hands-on demos of the latest tools, platforms, and AI-driven technologies that are transforming the global financial ecosystem. Network with Industry Movers Connect face-to-face with decision-makers, investors, and fintech pioneers driving change across the financial landscape of the MENA region. Dive into Interactive Sessions Participate in live panels, workshops, and discussions exploring cutting-edge topics such as AI in finance, blockchain breakthroughs, DeFi expansion, and sustainable investing. Unlock Exclusive Free Access Gain access to explore new products, strategies, and investment opportunities shaping the region’s financial future — and be part of the dialogue redefining tomorrow’s markets. A Gateway to Qatar’s Growing Financial Ecosystem As Qatar continues its journey toward becoming a regional financial powerhouse, Money Expo Qatar 2025 plays a pivotal role in connecting global expertise with local ambition.The event reflects Qatar’s commitment to fostering innovation, technology adoption, and financial literacy, aligning with the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. For professionals and businesses alike, Money Expo Qatar 2025 is not just an event — it’s an ecosystem of opportunity. Event Details 📍 Venue: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC)📅 Dates: December 2–3, 2025🌐 Website: https://moneyexpoglobal.com/qatar/en
Ooredoo Money and Mashreq Qatar Collaborate to Enhance Payroll Services for Corporate Customers in Qatar
20 March 2025 Doha, Qatar: Ooredoo Fintech has announced a strategic collaboration with Mashreq, one of the leading financial institutions in the MENA region, to introduce innovative solutions and offer seamless Wages Protection System (WPS) salary payment services to the bank’s corporate customers in Qatar. This new partnership aims to offer businesses with an efficient and secure payroll solution while ensuring compliance with Qatar Central Bank (QCB) regulations. The collaboration is designed to enhance the payroll offering for Mashreq’s corporate clients, introducing a streamlined method for salary disbursements. Through Ooredoo Money’s platform, businesses will be able to process employee salaries securely and efficiently, benefiting from the innovative financial technology that Ooredoo Money has developed. Key goals of the collaboration: 1.Offer WPS Salary Payment Services and cutting-edge solutions The partnership will allow Mashreq’s corporate customers to process employee salaries directly through Ooredoo Money, offering an easy-to-use, secure solution. This initiative ensures compliance with the QCB’s regulations on salary disbursements and promotes financial transparency within businesses. 2.Future Collaboration Opportunities Beyond the WPS salary payment services, both companies have expressed interest in exploring further collaborative efforts to provide additional financial products. This could include expanding the range of services for both businesses and their employees, continuing to promote financial inclusion and innovation across Qatar. “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in offering businesses in Qatar a simple, secure, and compliant solution for managing employee salaries,” said Mirko Giacco, Group CEO of Ooredoo Fintech. “We are committed to supporting Qatar’s growing digital economy, and by teaming up with Mashreq Bank, we are making it easier for companies to provide timely and efficient salary payments to their employees.” “We are pleased to partner Ooredoo Money to bring enhanced payroll solutions to our corporate clients. Ooredoo Money and Mashreq have synergy as both of us rely and want to further develop digital solutions in Qatar. I am sure this collaboration will be beneficial for both Mashreq and Ooredoo Money clients.” Said Salman Gulzar, Country Head of Mashreq Qatar. The partnership between Ooredoo Money and Mashreq aligns with Qatar’s vision for financial innovation and economic diversification. It aims to deliver more accessible and efficient financial services, helping businesses focus on growth while ensuring their operations remain compliant with regulatory standards.
2025 Qatar Economic Forum to take place May 20-22, Preliminary Speakers Confirmed
Doha, 9 February, 2025 – Entering its fifth year, the annual “Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg” (QEF), held in collaboration with Media City Qatar, will take place from May 20-22, 2025 in Doha. This year’s Forum, held under the theme ‘The Road to 2030: Transforming the Global Economy’, will once again convene Heads of State, influential government officials, international CEOs and investors in Doha, to create an international platform for meaningful deal-making conversations and connections. As 2025 marks the final stretch towards the 2030 national visions of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain, QEF will focus on how strategic decisions in the Gulf are influencing global economic trends. At a time of shifting geopolitical alliances and economic uncertainty, this year’s Forum will explore the next phase of regional transformation and its impact on global markets. Discussions at QEF will revolve around the following thematic areas: Geopolitics, Globalization & TradeGCC economies are rewriting the rules of global trade and investment with ambitious national visions and development strategies. Discussions will explore how the final stages of these economic transformations will progress in the face of regional security pressures and a new policy environment in the United States. Energy Supplies & SecurityThe Forum will host high-energy conversations with the power brokers setting our global relationship with oil, gas and the long-term transition to renewables. Technology Hype & RealityArtificial intelligence has become the dominant buzzword of the era, but separating hype from reality is essential. Conversations will examine how AI applications are delivering tangible benefits today and explore where AI-native startups are set to disrupt entire industries. Business & Investment OutlookThe biggest names in global business and investment will share insights on how they are achieving market-beating growth while sidestepping the major hurdles facing the global economy. Sports & EntertainmentSports investing used to be a play-thing for the super-rich. Now it’s a serious asset class attracting big money from hard-nosed investors. Players, leagues, owners and investors reveal the next wave of disruption poised to hit this multi-trillion dollar industry. Confirmed speakers include HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, Founder & CEO, KBW Ventures; Huda Al-Lawati, Founder & CEO, Aliph Capital; Henadi Al-Saleh, Chairperson, Agility; Samia Bouazza, Group CEO & Managing Director, Multiply Group; Mathieu Chabran, Co-founder, Tikehau Capital; William E. Ford, Chairman & CEO, General Atlantic; Goodwin Gaw, Chairman, Managing Principal, Member of Investment Committee & Co-Founder, Gaw Capital; Jayne Hrdlicka, CEO, Virgin Australia; Markus Krebber, CEO, RWE AG; Ryan M. Lance, Chairman & CEO, ConocoPhillips; Tope Lawani, Managing Partner, Helios Investment Partners; Chee Koon Lee, Group CEO, CapitaLand Investment Ltd.; Ted Leonsis, Founder, Chairman, Managing Partner & CEO, Monumental Sports & Entertainment; Rajeev Misra, CEO & Co-Founder, One Investment Management; David H. Petraeus (US Army, Ret.), Partner, Chairman of the Global Institute, KKR; with more to follow. Karen Saltser, CEO of Bloomberg Media, said “As we approach the fifth edition of QEF, we’re seeing the Gulf’s economic transformation reach a pivotal moment. With national visions approaching key milestones and global markets in flux, the conversations we’ll have in Doha will be more important than ever. This Forum remains a key global platform for leaders to come together to discuss, debate and define what’s next for business and investment worldwide.” Eng. Jassim Mohamed Al Khori, CEO of Media City Qatar, said: “Since its inception, ‘the Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg’ has been a cornerstone for global dialogue, where pivotal decisions influence the future of the economy. With 2030 on the horizon, regional countries continue striving toward their national aspirations, while the world stands at a crossroads of shifting markets, evolving policies, and new economic realities. This Forum is where leaders can come together to navigate complexity, forge new strategies, and shape what comes next. In Qatar, we look forward to facilitating these critical discussions.” Produced by Bloomberg Live Experiences and editorially programmed by Bloomberg News, the Forum will be available on the Bloomberg Terminal, Bloomberg TV and bloomberg.com. Additional speaker and agenda details for the “Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg” will be announced at a later date. For more information and to register interest, please visit QatarEconomicForum.com.
Invest Qatar Pavilion successfully showcases innovation and fosters global collaboration at World Economic Forum 2025
25 January 2025, Doha – Qatar: The Invest Qatar Pavilion made a remarkable debut at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, emerging as a vibrant platform for innovation and international engagement. The pavilion convened international industry leaders, investors and key stakeholders to explore Qatar’s dynamic business ecosystem and diverse investment opportunities, strengthening Qatar’s leadership in driving sustainable economic growth. The pavilion hosted a series of high-profile events in collaboration with key national stakeholders, sparking insightful discussions and fostering impactful connections. Events included the Doha Forum Reception, during which the theme for the 2025 edition, ‘Equity in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress, was unveiled. Additionally, Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) co-organised a networking breakfast that provided an opportunity for global stakeholders to explore collaborative ventures. Another key event was the panel discussion titled “Where to Invest in Technology: The QIA’s Global Outlook”, co-hosted by Media City Qatar and Bloomberg Media, which offered insights into technology investment opportunities. In partnership with The Economist Impact, the pavilion hosted two signature panels addressing critical themes of global connectivity and innovation. The first, “Future Pathways for Logistics: Resilience, Innovation, and Global Connectivity,” explored how emerging technologies and sustainability are reshaping global logistics. The second, “From Sandboxes to Success: The Middle East’s New Innovation Ecosystems,” highlighted the region’s efforts to attract global talent and foster entrepreneurial growth. Reflecting on the pavilion’s success, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: ” The debut of the Invest Qatar Pavilion underscores our commitment to aligning with international priorities while advancing Qatar’s vision for a diversified and resilient economy. The meaningful dialogues and business engagements at the pavilion reaffirm Qatar’s position as a leading destination for investment.” In addition to the pavilion’s events, Invest Qatar led several business engagements on the sidelines of the WEF Annual Meeting. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar participated in a thought-provoking session hosted by the Wall Street Journal at their Journal House. Titled, “A Region of Opportunity: How Transformative Economies Are Driving New Growth”, the panel discussed how resilient economies leverage human capital, public-private partnerships and intelligent industries to balance short-term goals with long-term ambitions. Moderated by Phillipa Leighton-Jones, Senior Vice President of The Trust, WSJ-Barron’s Group, the session featured Christophe Catoir, President of Adecco and Caspar Herzberg, CEO of Aveva.
