Baraha Ramadan Nights at Mandarin Oriental, Doha: A Refined Culinary Journey in the Heart of Msheireb
Mandarin Oriental, Doha has unveiled Baraha Ramadan Nights — an elevated Iftar and Suhour experience set beneath the open-air ambience of Barahat Msheireb, offering guests a sophisticated setting to embrace the spirit and traditions of the Holy Month. Blending Qatari hospitality with Mandarin Oriental’s signature culinary excellence, Baraha Ramadan Nights brings together the warmth of Ramadan gatherings and the artistry of world-class gastronomy. Families and friends are welcome to enjoy a generous culinary experience featuring traditional Ramadan favourites and contemporary dishes prepared across 14 live cooking stations, showcasing flavours from the region and beyond. A Thoughtfully Curated Iftar & Suhour Guests are invited to break their fast with an abundant spread of classic Ramadan specialities and signature dishes from the hotel’s acclaimed dining venues. The atmosphere at Barahat Msheireb — elegant, serene, and open-air — creates an ideal setting for meaningful conversations, connection, and reflection. A Signature Ramadan Cake from The Mandarin Cake Shop Adding a refined touch to the season, The Mandarin Cake Shop introduces a standout creation from The Heritage Cake Collection:a pistachio dacquoise layered with pistachio namelaka and Medjool date crémeux, crafted as an elegant centrepiece for Ramadan gatherings. The cake is available for pre-order at QAR 350. Ramadan Retreat Package For guests seeking tranquillity during the Holy Month, Mandarin Oriental, Doha presents a peaceful Ramadan Retreat Package. The experience includes: Wellness & Inner Harmony at The Spa The Spa’s Resilience & Self-Love Retreat offers a sanctuary for mindfulness and renewal.This two-hour immersive experience (QAR 1,600) includes: Reservations For bookings and full Ramadan offerings, visit:https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/doha/msheireb/ramadanor call +974 4008 8888.
QIA and Goldman Sachs Sign Landmark MoU Targeting $25 Billion Investment, Strengthening Qatar’s Global Financial Influence
In one of the most significant financial announcements of 2026, the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and Goldman Sachs Asset Management have signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding their strategic partnership and unlocking a combined investment target of $25 billion. The agreement marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s growing stature as a regional and global financial hub, reinforcing the nation’s long-term strategy to drive economic diversification, attract foreign investment, and strengthen private-sector growth. According to a statement released by QIA, the sovereign wealth fund intends to commit capital across Goldman Sachs’ flagship funds, innovative alternative investment strategies, and selected co-investment opportunities. The partnership expands QIA’s role as an anchor investor across multiple Goldman Sachs Asset Management platforms, giving Qatar preferential access to global deal flow in future-forward sectors, including: This move solidifies Qatar’s position as a leading institutional investor in high-growth global markets. As part of the expanded cooperation, Goldman Sachs will enhance its presence in Doha, building out its capabilities as a strategic asset management hub for the region. Through its global Value Accelerator network, Goldman Sachs will support Qatar in: This partnership aligns closely with Qatar’s ambitions to become a regional leader in alternative investments, innovation-led industries, and financial services. Commenting on the agreement, Mohammed Saif Al Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “QIA is pleased to partner with Goldman Sachs in this landmark agreement. It provides QIA with premium deal flow in sectors critical to our investment strategy, including AI, fintech, digital infrastructure and private credit. This partnership extends beyond capital deployment and reinforces Doha’s position as a regional financial center.” He further noted that Goldman Sachs’ commitment to expanding its Doha presence will support job creation, specialized skills development, and long-term economic value for Qatar. David Solomon, Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs, emphasized Qatar’s strong momentum: “Qatar is on an exciting path of economic diversification, developing its capital markets, strengthening its talent base, and expanding its ecosystem of national champions. This creates substantial opportunity to widen Qatar’s global connectivity and impact as a multi-faceted investment partner.” Goldman Sachs stands among the world’s leading alternative investment managers, with: Its Value Accelerator Network will now work closely with Qatari institutions and the wider ecosystem to build enduring, globally competitive businesses. The QIA–Goldman Sachs MoU represents more than a financial partnership—it positions Doha as a rising global center for asset management, sovereign investment, and cross-border financial collaboration. With a $25 billion target fueling this strategic alliance, Qatar is poised to accelerate high-impact investments and strengthen its role in shaping the future of global finance.
QSTP and Merck Launch FemTech Accelerator to Advance Women’s Health Innovation Across MENA
Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation, has announced a strategic partnership with Merck to launch the QSTP x Merck FemTech Accelerator—a landmark initiative aimed at accelerating innovation in women’s health across the Middle East and North Africa. The dedicated accelerator will identify and support up to 30 FemTech startups developing deep-tech, impact-driven solutions addressing critical unmet needs in women’s health. The programme focuses on advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and materials science, supporting startups from early validation through to commercial expansion. Selected companies will gain access to QSTP’s innovation ecosystem and Merck’s global scientific and healthcare expertise, benefiting from curated mentorship, clinically aligned pilot opportunities, and structured market-entry pathways into Qatar, with scalability across regional and international markets. The accelerator is designed not only to support individual ventures, but also to generate measurable, trackable impact at scale, aligned with Qatar Foundation’s mission to improve health outcomes for women. Through a multi-country approach, the accelerator enables FemTech solutions to be piloted, validated, and adopted across multiple markets, addressing women’s health challenges at both regional and global levels. Startups will also engage with key stakeholders from Qatar’s healthcare ecosystem, including clinicians, regulators, investors, and innovation leaders. Commenting on the launch, Rama Chakaki, President of QSTP, said the accelerator reflects QSTP’s commitment to inclusive innovation and scalable impact. Meanwhile, Ahmed Aboelfadl, General Manager Gulf at Merck, highlighted the urgent need to address women’s health gaps through science- and technology-led solutions. The programme includes an intensive two-week immersion in Doha, equipping founders with market insights, regulatory understanding, and commercial readiness. Together, QSTP and Merck aim to position Qatar as a regional and global hub for women’s health innovation, advancing one of the fastest-growing sectors in global health technology.
Msheireb Museums Hosts Screening of Australian–Qatari Pearling Documentary Al Nayla
Msheireb Museums, in collaboration with Qatar Television and the Australian Embassy in Doha, hosted a special screening of the documentary Al Nayla: A Journey to the Depths of Sea and the Secrets of Extracting Oysters and Pearls from the Coast of Australia. Held at Stories in Msheireb Museums, the event brought together diplomats, cultural leaders, and members of the public to explore the deep historical ties between Qatar and Australia through the pearling industry. The documentary traced the evolution of Western Australia’s pearling sector, documenting traditional pearl diving practices, the transition to cultured pearls, and the families who shaped the industry over generations. Through archival footage and expert interviews, Al Nayla illustrated how technological and economic shifts transformed a regional trade into a globally significant industry—mirroring similar developments in the Gulf. The screening carried strong diplomatic significance, attended by Dick Milton, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives; Shane Flanagan; senior leadership from Qatar Television; and members of the diplomatic community. Their presence highlighted the enduring cultural and historical links between the two nations. Commenting on the occasion, Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, noted that the film created a natural dialogue between Qatar’s pearling legacy and international maritime histories—expanding audiences’ understanding of how the sea shaped societies across continents. Australian Ambassador Shane Flanagan described the documentary as a reminder of the human stories connecting Australia and Qatar, particularly as both nations celebrate a decade of diplomatic presence. Meanwhile, Ali Saleh Al-Sada, Director of Qatar Television, emphasised the importance of placing the film within Msheireb Museums, where Qatar’s pearling heritage is already preserved and interpreted. Through Al Nayla, Msheireb Museums reaffirmed its role as a platform for cultural dialogue—using history, storytelling, and shared heritage to strengthen international understanding and collaboration.
Consulting HAUS Guides Snoonu Through Landmark $245M Acquisition, Marking Qatar’s First Billion-Riyal Tech Exit
Qatar’s technology and startup ecosystem reached a historic milestone as Snoonu was acquired by Jahez Group in a $245 million transaction, valuing the Doha-born platform at over QAR 1 billion. The deal represents Qatar’s first billion-riyal technology exit and one of the largest private capital infusions in the country’s history. At the centre of this landmark transaction was Consulting HAUS, which acted as exclusive sell-side advisor to Snoonu. The firm played a pivotal role in positioning the company for acquisition, safeguarding shareholder value, and securing favourable terms that reflected Snoonu’s rapid growth and regional ambitions. A Milestone for Qatar’s Tech Ecosystem The acquisition is widely viewed as a breakthrough moment for Qatar’s innovation landscape, signalling the maturity of its startup ecosystem and its growing relevance within the wider GCC technology market. By achieving a billion-riyal valuation, Snoonu has set a powerful precedent for local founders, investors, and emerging tech companies looking to scale beyond national borders. Consulting HAUS began its advisory mandate nearly a year before the transaction’s close, laying the groundwork through detailed business planning, operational readiness, and strategic positioning. This early-stage preparation proved critical in reducing friction during negotiations and ensuring the company entered the transaction process from a position of strength. Strategic Advisory at Every Stage Throughout the deal, Consulting HAUS led transaction execution, working closely with buy-side advisors, legal teams, and auditors. Its role spanned valuation strategy, deal structuring, due diligence coordination, and negotiation support—ensuring transparency, alignment among stakeholders, and disciplined project management at every stage. Commenting on the achievement, Laith Dajani, Managing Partner at Consulting HAUS, said the transaction demonstrates the importance of professional advisory in enabling successful cross-border GCC deals and highlights Qatar’s emergence as a hub for technology innovation. From Snoonu’s perspective, the acquisition represents both scale and continuity. Hamad Al Hajri, CEO of Snoonu, noted that the partnership with Jahez Group brings new investment and regional momentum, while allowing the company to remain anchored in Qatar’s values, vision, and talent base. Setting a New Benchmark Backed by a leadership team with more than 100 years of combined experience, Consulting HAUS continues to play a central role in advancing high-impact transactions across the GCC. Over the past seven years, the firm has delivered multiple landmark projects that support economic diversification, private-sector growth, and cross-border investment. The Snoonu–Jahez transaction now stands as a benchmark deal—not only for Qatar’s tech sector, but for the broader regional startup and M&A landscape—demonstrating what is possible when innovation, ambition, and strategic advisory converge.
Samla International Race 2026: A World-Class Endurance Challenge in Qatar
The Samla International Race is set to make history with its upcoming edition on 24 January 2026, marking a significant evolution as the race expands onto the global stage. Recognised for its intensity, innovation, and multi-discipline format, Samla has become one of the most distinctive endurance races in the region—firmly positioning Qatar as a hub for elite sporting events and sports tourism. Strategic Partnerships Driving Excellence Ahead of the 2026 edition, the Samla International Race secured a series of strategic partnerships with leading local and global organisations. These include Katara Hospitality, Qatar Insurance Group, Defender – Al Fardan, Mazzraty, and Red Bull as the official beverage partner. In addition, a landmark partnership was signed with Visit Qatar and ASICS, with ASICS confirmed as the official sportswear partner of the race. These collaborations reflect a shared commitment to delivering a world-class sporting experience—enhancing technical standards, athlete performance, safety, and overall event quality. A Course Designed to Push Limits The Samla International Race is defined by its demanding, multi-stage format. The 2026 course features six consecutive stages, combining endurance, skill, and resilience across Qatar’s diverse landscapes: This unique structure tests competitors across swimming, running, cycling, and kayaking—set against sand dunes, open water, off-road terrain, and challenging climatic conditions. From Local Legacy to Global Stage Established in 2016, Samla was created to support and showcase local athletes. Nearly a decade later, the launch of Samla International marks a pivotal moment in its journey—welcoming elite male and female athletes from around the world to compete in Qatar for the first time. The race not only highlights athletic excellence but also showcases the country’s natural terrain, resilience, and sporting ambition. Strengthening Sports Tourism in Qatar In partnership with Visit Qatar, the Samla International Race plays a strategic role in promoting sports tourism, offering international visitors and residents a distinctive, high-impact sporting experience. The event aligns with Qatar’s broader vision of hosting world-class competitions that combine performance, culture, and destination storytelling. As anticipation builds for January 2026, the Samla International Race stands as a powerful symbol of endurance, collaboration, and global sporting excellence—cementing Qatar’s reputation as a destination for premier international sporting events.
QEWC Rebrands as Nebras Energy, Marking a New Era of Growth in Qatar’s Energy Sector
Qatar Electricity & Water Company (QEWC) has officially rebranded as Nebras Energy, signalling a major strategic evolution built on a 35-year legacy of powering Qatar’s electricity and water security and more than a decade of international expansion. Listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange, the transformation represents more than a name change. It reflects a forward-looking vision designed to position Nebras Energy as a more agile, globally oriented energy company while preserving continuity, stability, and stakeholder trust. From National Utility to Global Energy Platform Established by Amiri Decree No. 58 of 1990, QEWC has played a foundational role in supporting Qatar’s rapid economic and social development. Over the past three decades, it has grown into one of the largest power and water utility companies in the MENA region, with a diversified asset base spanning domestic and international markets. Under its new identity, Nebras Energy emerges as a brand that reflects flexibility, resilience, and long-term ambition—aligning with Qatar’s broader energy transition and global investment strategy. Leadership Vision for the Next Chapter Commenting on the rebranding, H.E. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Chairman of Nebras Energy, said the company has been a cornerstone of Qatar’s electricity and water security for more than three decades, extending its reach across global markets. He noted that the move to Nebras Energy represents a decisive step toward broader horizons of growth and development, supported by a new visual identity that clearly reflects the company’s future vision. He also praised the leadership, executive management, and employees for their continued commitment to strengthening Qatar’s international energy partnerships and advancing sustainable growth. Ensuring Continuity While Accelerating Growth Marking this pivotal milestone, Managing Director and CEO Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri emphasised that the rebranding reinforces the company’s core mission while positioning it for long-term success. He highlighted that the transition ensures seamless business continuity, honours all existing commitments, and strengthens the company’s role in advancing Qatar’s electricity and water sector. Strong Assets, Global Reach Nebras Energy’s portfolio in Qatar reflects a robust and diversified production base, supported by joint ventures and Nebras Power, its wholly owned international investment arm. The company’s operational capacity currently stands at: These assets underpin Qatar’s energy and water security while supporting Nebras Energy’s growing international footprint. Governance and Next Steps The company’s new visual identity and rebranding will be presented to shareholders at an Extraordinary General Assembly meeting on 8 January 2026, where final approval will be sought. A Future-Focused Energy Leader As Nebras Energy, the company enters a new chapter aligned with Qatar’s long-term economic and energy objectives—focused on sustainable growth, international investment, and reliable infrastructure delivery. The transformation reinforces Qatar’s position as a trusted global energy partner and highlights how legacy institutions can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing energy landscape.
VoPay Establishes Global Headquarters in Qatar, Strengthening Doha’s Role as a Global Fintech Infrastructure Hub
VoPay International Inc., a leading global financial infrastructure platform, has officially established its global headquarters in Qatar, positioning Doha as the company’s primary hub for advancing digital financial infrastructure across MENA, Africa, Southeast Asia, and other high-growth markets, while continuing to support operations in North America, Europe, and Latin America. The strategic move reinforces Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global centre for fintech, cross-border payments, and financial system modernisation, aligned with the country’s long-term economic diversification agenda. Doha as the Engine of VoPay’s Global Expansion From its Doha headquarters, VoPay will expand and operate core financial infrastructure that supports central banks, financial institutions, governments, public-sector entities, and large enterprises. The platform enables institutions to modernise legacy financial systems, improve interoperability, and connect regional markets with global financial ecosystems through secure, scalable, and intelligent infrastructure. As part of its long-term commitment, VoPay plans to hire more than 400 highly skilled professionals in Qatar over the next three years, spanning engineering, technology, cybersecurity, compliance, data, and platform operations—further strengthening Qatar’s role as a sustainable hub for financial infrastructure development. Alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030 VoPay’s decision closely aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification, digital transformation, and the development of a knowledge-based economy under the leadership of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Commenting on the announcement, VoPay Founder and CEO Hamed Arbabi stated that Qatar offers a unique platform for scaling financial infrastructure that connects regions, institutions, and markets with resilience and intelligence—making it a natural choice for the company’s global headquarters. Strategic Support from Invest Qatar and QFC VoPay’s expansion into Qatar has been supported by Invest Qatar, which played a key role in facilitating the company’s market entry and long-term growth strategy. Operating within the ecosystem of the Qatar Financial Centre, VoPay benefits from a robust regulatory framework designed to attract global financial technology leaders. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of Invest Qatar, noted that VoPay’s investment further reinforces Qatar’s commitment to building a diversified, innovation-driven economy and positioning the country as a global hub for advanced financial technologies. Qatar’s Rise as a Global Financial Infrastructure Platform By anchoring its global headquarters in Doha, VoPay is contributing to Qatar’s emergence as a trusted platform for digital financial infrastructure, enabling cross-border financial coordination, institutional collaboration, and large-scale interoperability across regions. The Doha headquarters will serve as a strategic coordination centre for initiatives supporting financial system modernisation throughout the Gulf, MENA, Africa, and Southeast Asia—enhancing capital flows, data connectivity, and secure financial operations across borders. Powering the Future of Finance from Qatar Through applied artificial intelligence, mature infrastructure technology, and global financial connectivity, VoPay’s platform bridges regional financial systems with international banking frameworks. This enables institutions operating from Qatar to integrate seamlessly with global markets, reinforcing Doha’s role as a convening point for resilient, intelligent, and future-ready financial infrastructure. As Qatar continues to attract global fintech leaders, VoPay’s decision marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a world-class hub for digital finance and financial innovation.
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.
