Invest Qatar has officially introduced a $1 billion incentives program aimed at enhancing Qatar’s status as a prominent global business hub.
Unveiled at the 5th edition of the Qatar Economic Forum, this initiative provides a comprehensive suite of incentive packages specifically designed for both local and international investors. These incentives, QNA reported, offer financial support that covers up to 40 percent of eligible local investment expenses over a five-year period, including costs associated with business setup, construction, office leases, equipment, and employee-related expenses.
Targeting key growth sectors identified in the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3)—namely advanced industries, logistics, IT, and digital and financial services—the incentive program will be rolled out in phases. The initial phase introduces four off-the-shelf incentive packages aimed at supporting new investments, facilitating the expansion and digitization of existing facilities, creating high-skilled employment opportunities, promoting knowledge transfer, and driving an innovative, tech-driven ecosystem.
Tailored packages for key industries
The Advanced Industries Package emphasizes high-value, technology-intensive sectors such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, automotive, and electronics, promoting innovation and value-added production. The Logistics Package aims to position Qatar as a leading global hub for logistics, re-export, and distribution by promoting investments in infrastructure, automation, and advanced logistics services. The Technology Package seeks to nurture a dynamic digital economy by attracting investments in cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data-driven innovation. Meanwhile, the Lusail Financial Services Package is designed to strengthen Qatar’s financial ecosystem by advancing asset management, insurance, wealth management, and financial technology (fintech) innovation. It also encourages the establishment of offices in Lusail, Qatar’s premier financial and business district.
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Eligibility and application process
The incentives program is guided by a clear set of eligibility criteria, including a minimum investment size of QAR25 million over five years, job creation targets, and a proven track record in relevant sectors. These parameters ensure a streamlined and transparent evaluation process, expediting application reviews and approvals. Investors can find more information and apply for the incentive packages through the Invest Qatar Gateway, the country’s first digital investor platform, which offers a seamless application submission experience.
Commenting on the launch of the new program, H.E. Minister of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of the Advisory Council Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani stated: “This initiative is a renewed testament to our unwavering commitment to create a world-class investment environment that not only drives sustainable economic growth but also delivers long-term value to our partners. By aligning incentives with the Third National Development Strategy, we aim to attract and support investments that accelerate the development and growth of Qatar’s strategic economic clusters.”
H.E. CEO of Invest Qatar Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani remarked: “The launch of this program marks a strategic step forward in achieving the goals of NDS3. It reinforces our commitment to support high-potential businesses that share our national vision for innovation, diversification, and sustainable growth. By addressing the evolving needs of investors, the incentive packages are tailored to unlock growth across today’s most dynamic sectors while empowering the private sector, contributing to a more resilient, competitive, and business-friendly landscape in Qatar.”
Attracting foreign investment
The incentives program builds on Qatar’s National Incentives Framework, complementing the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance its business environment through strategic policy reforms, new digital services, and streamlined licensing procedures across multiple sectors.
In 2024, Qatar attracted $2.74 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) through 241 projects, creating 9,348 jobs. The year also saw an increase in Qatar’s international competitiveness, with the country rising to 11th in the IMD World Competitiveness Index 2024, improving to 28th in the Global Economic Freedom Index, and advancing to 24th in the DHL Connectedness Index.
Significant improvements were also noted in logistics and infrastructure, with Qatar ranking 14th in the Logistics Competence sub-index and 19th in the Logistics Infrastructure sub-index of the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index.
