Doha-based Filipino realtors laud ‘groundbreaking’ initiatives to modernise Qatar’s property sector

The Association of Filipino Real Estate Executives in Qatar (Afreeq) has commended the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) for the "groundbreaking” initiatives in modernising Qatar’s property sector, which were discussed during the recently held Real Estate Brokers’ Forum.As many as 22 Filipino property professionals from leading locally licensed real estate companies and visiting agents representing developers in the Philippines attended the forum, Afreeq chairman Dr Joseph Timothy Rivera told Gulf Times in a statement.Rivera lauded Khalid bin Ahmed al-Obaidli, the chairman of Aqarat, for his commitment to safeguarding the rights and entitlements of duly licensed real estate agents during the forum.He also acknowledged Aqarat’s clarifications on freehold ownership policies and the MoJ’s streamlined licensing procedures for real estate brokers, which aim to enhance industry professionalism and transparency."With efficient regulations now in place, it is imperative for all Filipino real estate professionals in Qatar to obtain their official licences to operate legally and competitively in the market,” Rivera emphasised.Rivera also underscored Afreeq’s commitment to working closely with Aqarat in providing the necessary training and seminars to help Filipino real estate practitioners meet licensing requirements."The proactive steps taken by the Ministry of Justice and Aqarat will undoubtedly reinforce investor confidence and ensure a more structured and professional real estate landscape in Qatar. These initiatives mark a new era of growth, sustainability, and protection for real estate professionals, property owners, and investors alike,” said Rivera.He also noted that Afreeq is looking forward to continuous collaboration with authorities in Qatar in upholding global real estate standards while ensuring that Filipino professionals play a significant role in the country’s dynamic property industry, ensuring that best practices align with Qatar National Vision 2030."The association also looks forward to further dialogue and co-operation with Aqarat in advancing progressive policies that benefit both the local and expatriate communities, particularly in Aqarat’s mandate in setting licensing and classification standards for real estate professionals in line with global best practices; boosting real estate professionals’ competence through training, awareness, and capacity building; ensuring transparency and fairness through clear, accountable procedures; regulating real estate marketing with clear, legally compliant guidelines; and ensuring quality service through professional conduct and ethical standards,” Rivera added.