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Doha's real estate sector, which is poised for growth due to multitude of reasons, reflects high investment intensity with an average capex (capital expenditure) of more than $202mn per project, according to a joint report of Aqarat (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) and Invest Qatar. "With an average capex of more than $202mn per project, the (real estate) sector is amongst the top five sectors by foreign direct investment (FDI) capex," the report said. Over the past 20 years, Qatar's real estate sector has been the second largest recipient of FDI capex among the non-hydrocarbons sectors, it said. The sector is estimated to have created 17.4% of non-hydrocarbon FDI capex totalling around $1.7bn, playing a key role in Qatar's diversification, it said. Among non-hydrocarbons FDI capex, chemicals had the highest share of 22.1%, hotels and tourism (13.1%), metals (12.9%) and renewable energy (5.6%). Real estate sector is estimated to have created more than 14,000 jobs, making it the largest job creator in the non-hydrocarbon sector, according to the report. Qatar's realty sector saw a strong growth in 2024 with sales up 38% since 2018 and 5,535 units. Contracts rose 10% annually, led by an 8% increase in the commercial sector. Total mortgage value transactions grew 43% year-on-year to $17.4bn, it said, adding total number of transactions rose by 6.3% to 1,026, reflecting the continued maturity of Qatar’s real estate sector. The total contract value reached around $7.3bn, boosted by the World Cup legacy and ongoing infrastructure projects, the report said. "Qatar’s progressive real estate laws are accelerating investment through private sector and foreign ownership," it said, adding ownership is permitted in nine freehold areas and 16 usufruct/lease-hold areas among all sectors. Doha's real estate and construction sectors are poised to maintain strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% through 2029, reaching a combined value of $45bn, the report said. In the past decade, real estate and construction had increased their share of Qatar’s GDP from 13.8% to 18.5% underscoring their rising strategic importance and potential for advancing Qatar’s economic diversification, supporting sustainable growth and investment. Over the past 10 years, real estate surged by 55% and construction by 57%, highlighting significant growth momentum, the report said, adding Qatar's population growth of 50% between 2014 and 2029 is a key catalyst for rising real estate demand, supported by ongoing urban and infrastructure development. The country’s real GDP is forecast to grow at 2.4% this year and 5.4% in 2026, according to the report. Qatar's real estate market is poised for continued expansion, support by key strengths and strategic enablers such as strong investment environment such as economic stability, accessible financing and attractive returns; high quality of life; and robust infrastructure, it said. This growth is further driven by emerging market trends like focus on sustainability (green buildings and environmentally conscious development), technology integration and lifestyle and leisure demand, according to the joint report.

The Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today opened the week weak with its key index losing more than 13 points on selling pressure especially in the banks and consumer goods sectors.The Arab individuals were seen increasingly bearish as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.13% to 10,837.18 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,899 points.The foreign institutions’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 2.52%.More than 47% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation was rather flat at QR649.3bn despite selling pressure in microcap segments.The local retail investors continued to be net profit takers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 3,676 exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.04mn trade across 14 deals.The Gulf individuals also continued to be net sellers but with lesser vigour in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the decline.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf funds were increasingly net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index fell 0.13%, the All Islamic Index by 0.06% and the All Share Index by 0.1% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index shrank 0.4%, consumer goods and services (0.24%) and telecom (0.09%); while industrials gained 0.56%, real estate (0.35%), transport (0.28%) and insurance (0.04%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 25 declined and six were unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, Medicare Group, Estithmar Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank, Commercial Bank, Vodafone Qatar and Milaha. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, QLM, Qamco, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qatar Insurance, Widam Food, Al Mahhar Holding, Industries Qatar, Ezdan, Nakilat and Gulf Warehousing were among the movers in the main market.The Arab individual investors’ net selling increased noticeably to QR6.41mn compared to QR1.98mn last Thursday.The foreign institutions’ net buying weakened significantly to QR0.21mn against QR35.7mn the previous trading day.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened perceptibly to QR14.3mn compared to QR12.73mn on October 16.The domestic funds turned net buyers to the tune of QR6.14mn against net profit takers of QR6.52mn last Thursday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying expanded marginally to QR1.87mn compared to QR1.78mn the previous trading day.The local individual investors’ net selling weakened substantially to QR10.9mn against QR32.66mn on October 16.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking eased markedly to QR5.21mn compared to QR9.09mn last Thursday.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the extent of QR0.04mn on October 16.The main market saw 28% contraction in trade volumes to 98.11mn shares, 44% in value to QR240.93mn and 41% in deals to 14,462.In the venture market, a total of 9,508 equities valued at QR0.2mn changed hands across six transactions.

Doha’s hospitality market remains “stable” as tourism demand remains robust in 2025 with steady growth, especially in the leisure and staycation, which hold considerable untapped potential, according to KPMG in Qatar.Post-2022, the market stabilised with ADR (average daily rate) and RevPAR (revenue per available room) remaining above pre-World Cup levels amid steady growth in visitor arrivals, KPMG in Qatar said in its latest report.“Qatar’s hospitality sector rebounded steadily post-pandemic, supported by new events, attractions, and tourism initiatives,” the report said.As of YTD (year-to-date) August 2025, occupancy stands at about 69%, ADR at QR429, and RevPAR at QR300, reflecting a resilient performance, it said, adding Qatar’s hospitality sector continues to sustain “strong” momentum.February posted the strongest results, with occupancy at 82.5% and ADR at QR490, driven by favourable winter weather and major events such as the Global Champions Arabians Tour and the Web Summit.January and April also benefited from the pleasant climate, sustaining occupancy levels above 76%, it said, adding March saw the sharpest dip, with occupancy falling to 52.3% and ADR to QR369, reflecting muted demand during Ramadan, when shorter business hours and fewer leisure activities typically curb travel.From May to August, the market cooled, with RevPAR easing to QR243 in August, reflecting the off-peak summer period when high temperatures typically reduce travel in the region.KPMG in Qatar said tourism today is no longer defined by a single experience but by a spectrum of segments that cater to different traveller motivations. From sports and eco-conscious tourism to adventure, heritage, leisure, and staycations, the sector is evolving to meet diverse preferences, it said.“These segments collectively strengthen Qatar’s positioning as a diverse, year-round destination, appealing to international, regional, and domestic travellers,” it said.On leisure and staycation, it said such developments bring year-round demand drivers that balance Qatar’s tourism sector, particularly during weekends, holidays, and off-peak seasons, ensuring steadier performance.“The segment holds considerable untapped potential, especially through developing tailored staycation packages for international tourists and residents, families, couples, and young professionals, while also diversifying experiences beyond accommodation,” it said.By integrating wellness, recreation, dining, entertainment, adventure, and cultural activities into staycation offerings, Qatar can elevate these short breaks into comprehensive lifestyle experiences that strengthen domestic and regional demand, according to KPMG in Qatar.Qatar is positioned to spearhead new projects and initiatives that align with the latest trends shaping the hospitality and tourism sector, it said, highlighting The West Bay Beaches and Al Safliya Island Development project.By integrating entertainment and hospitality into a single destination and delivering it through a PPP (public private partnership) model, the project aligns with global trends of diversified tourism development supported by private investment, it said.“The West Bay Beaches and Al Safliya Island developments go beyond tourism, creating wide-ranging impacts across human, social, economic, and environmental dimensions. By enhancing quality of life, strengthening cultural identity, diversifying the economy, and embedding sustainability, they contribute directly to the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030,” the report said.

The US rate concerns and Washington's additional tariffs on China were seen masking positive vibes from the corporate earnings announcements and rising oil prices that the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) close the week on a negative turf.The foreign institutions were seen increasingly net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.75% this week which saw Commercial Bank report net profit of QR1.79bn in the first nine months of this year.The Gulf individuals were increasingly bearish in the main bourse this week which saw QIIB register net profit of QR1.1bn in January-September 2025.The Gulf institutions’ substantially weakened net buying had its influence on the main market this week which saw Woqod register net profit of QR751.6mn in the first nine months of this year.About 64% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse this week which saw Barwa Real Estate Group announce the launch of new luxury brand “Barwa Royal” as a premium realty offering and unveiled the second phase of “Barwa Hills”.The real estate, transport, insurance and telecom counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure this week which saw Qatar National Cement's January-September net profit at QR78.66mn.However, the local retail investors turned net buyers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.63mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR1.46mn trade across 184 deals.The Arab individuals were increasingly bullish in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 1,585 AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.02mn trade across seven deals.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation eroded QR4.93bn or 0.75% to QR649.29bn on the back of mid and small cap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the increase in the main and junior markets this week which saw the realty, industrials and banking sectors together constitute about 74% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index shed 0.75%, the All Share Index by 0.72% and the All Islamic Index by 0.35% this week which saw Elegancia Facilities Management, a subsidiary of Estithmar Holding, has been awarded the management of 14 newly constructed schools under the public-private partnership framework led by Ashghal.The realty sector index plummeted 1.66%, transport (1.52%), insurance (1.5%), telecom (1%), industrials (0.69%), banks and financial services (0.54%) and consumer goods and services (0.3%) this week.The market was skewed towards shakers with as many as 33 constituents reporting declines, while 17 gained and two were unchanged this week.Major shakers in the main market included Commercial Bank, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Insurance, Qatar Electricity and Water, Qatar German Medical Devices, Dukhan Bank, Lesha Bank, Medicare Group, Mannai Corporation, Meeza, Al Mahhar Holding, Ezdan, Ooredoo, Gulf International Services, Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding and United Development Company. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.Nevertheless, Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance, QIIB, Mazaya Qatar, Qamco, Salam International Investment, AlRayan Bank and Widam Food were among the gainers in the main market this week.The foreign institutions’ net selling increased significantly to QR33.92mn compared to QR0.97mn the previous week.The Gulf individual investors’ net profit booking strengthened substantially to QR10.64mn against QR0.73mn a week ago.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened drastically to QR1.47mn compared to QR43.96mn the week ended October 9.However, the Qatari individuals turned net buyers to the tune of QR24.8mn against net sellers of QR38.51mn the previous week.The Arab individual investors’ net buying expanded considerably to QR11.46mn compared to QR7.68mn a week ago.The foreign retail investors’ net buying surged noticeably to QR10.86mn against QR1.57mn the week ended October 9.The Arab institutions’ net buying increased marginally to QR1.28mn compared to QR0.15mn the previous week.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking eased perceptibly to QR5.3mn against QR13.16mn a week ago.The main market saw 14% jump in trade volumes to 653.27mn shares, 27% in value to QR1.8bn and 23% in deals to 102,031 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes jumped almost 15-fold to 0.88mn equities and value by more than 14-fold to QR2.15mn on more than five-fold increase in transactions to 205.

The foreign institutions’ substantial buying interests today lifted the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) more than 157 points and its capitalisation added about QR9bn.The banking, transport and industrials counters witnessed higher than average demand as the 20-stock Qatar Index soared 1.47% to 10,850.91 points, recovering from an intraday low of 10,702 points.The Gulf institutions were increasingly bullish in the main market, whose year-to-date gains improved to 2.65%.The domestic funds’ weakened net profit booking had its influence on the main bourse, whose capitalisation added QR8.76bn or 1.37% to QR649.29bn; mainly on large and midcap segments.The foreign individuals continued to be net buyers but with lesser intensity in the main market, which saw as many as 0.07mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.15mn trade across 30 deals.The local retail investors were seen net sellers in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.The Gulf individuals were increasingly net profit takers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index gained 1.47%, the All Islamic Index by 1.1% and the All Share Index by 1.4% in the main market.The banks and financial services sector index shot up 1.79%, transport (1.54%), industrials (1.5%) and telecom (0.99%); while real estate declined 0.6%, insurance (0.34%) and consumer goods and services (0.2%).As many as 22 stocks gained, while 25 declined and four were unchanged.Major gainers in the main market included Qatar Islamic Bank, Industries Qatar, QNB, Qamco, Milaha, Qatar Electricity and Water, Ooredoo and Nakilat.Nevertheless, QLM, Commercial Bank, Medicare Group, Qatar German Medical Devices, Qatar National Cement, Ezdan, United Development Company and Vodafone Qatar were among the shakers in the main bourse. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.The foreign institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR35.7mn compared with net profit takers of QR3.94mn the previous day.The Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened substantially to QR12.73mn against QR0.06mn on October 15.The domestic institutions’ net selling declined noticeably to QR6.52mn compared to QR10.88mn on Wednesday.However, the local individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR32.66mn against net buyers of QR5.17mn the previous day.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking expanded significantly to QR9.09mn compared to QR1.4mn on October 15.The Arab individual investors turned net sellers to the tune of QR1.98mn against net buyers of QR4.73mn on Wednesday.The foreign retail investors’ net buying shrank markedly to QR1.78mn compared to QR5.31mn the previous day.The Arab institutions’ net buying decreased marginally to QR0.04mn against QR0.94mn on October 15.The main market saw an 11% jump in trade volumes to 135.89mn shares, 19% in value to QR429.22mn and 8% in deals to 24,535.In the venture market, a total of 0.02mn equities valued at QR0.04mn changed hands across eight transactions.

Qatar witnessed a total of 55.08mn transactions valued at QR16.68bn through the country's payment system in September 2025, according to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) data.The number of transactions and total value grew 4.81% and 3.35% month-on-month respectively in September 2025, even as Fawran and QMP (Qatar Mobile Payment) were seen outpacing the total, the QCB said in its social media handle X.Qatar Payment System (QPS) is designed on the concept of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) and electronic straight through processing (e-STP).The point-of-sales constituted 51% of the payment system transaction, followed by e-commerce 25%, Fawran or instant payment system at 22% and QMP at 2% in the review period.There were 42.43mn card transactions through point-of-sales – which enables merchants to process payments and log transactions – valued at QR8.46bn in September 2025. The card transactions increased 4.02% and 2.79% month-on-month in volume and value respectively.The e-commerce transactions witnessed as many as 10.09mn transactions valued at QR4.23bn in the review period. While the number of transactions jumped 7%, total value was down by a marginal 0.24% compared with August 2025.The point-of-sales and e-commerce together amounted to QR12.69bn through 52.52mn transactions this September, which showed 4.58% and 1.68% increase in volume and value respectively on a monthly basis.Fawran -- a real-time payment service in Qatar, allowing users to send and receive money instantly and securely within the country -- registered as many as 2.21mn transactions valued at QR3.69bn in September 2025, growing 10.5% and 9.17% month-on-month respectively.There have been a total of 3.39mn total registered Fawran accounts in September this year, growing by 1.8% month-on-month.Fawran was launched in 2024 and system members are QNB, Commercial Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Ahli Bank, Dukhan Bank, Doha Bank, QIIB and AlRayan Bank.QMP – which allows immediate transfer of funds between registered customers through any registered payment service providers – saw as many as 359,462 transactions valued at QR294.63mn in September 2025, registering 7.72% and 5.88% growth against August 2025 levels.There has been a total of 1.21mn registered wallets in the review period, a 1.63% decline on a monthly basis.The QMP is a centralised payment system that was launched in 2020, to enable individuals and corporates to perform instant fund transfers between e-wallets within payment service providers in Qatar.The system members are QNB, Commercial Bank, Doha Bank, Qatar Islamic Bank, Ahli Bank, QIIB, Arab Bank, HSBC Qatar, AlRayan Bank, Dukhan Bank, i-pay and Ooredoo Money.The QPS is based on the SWIFT network and messages standards and utilises the SWIFT messages to reconcile and settle the local payments and securities ownership transfers.Qatar's retail payment system comprise electronic cheque clearing system; national network system for ATMS and Points of Sales (NAPS); QMP; direct deposit and debit (QATCH); electronic payment gateway (QPay); wage protection system (WPS); and Fawran.(Ends)

Qatar witnessed a total of 55.08mn transactions valued at QR16.68bn through the country's payment system in September 2025, according to the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) data.Qatar Payment System (QPS) is designed on the concept of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) and electronic straight through processing (e-STP).The point-of-sales constituted 51% of the payment system transaction, followed by e-commerce 25%, Fawran or instant payment system at 22% and Qatar Mobile Payment or QMP at 2% in the review period.There were 42.43mn card transactions through point-of-sales – which enables merchants to process payments and log transactions – valued at QR8.46bn in September 2025.The e-commerce transaction winessed as many as 10.09mn transactions valued at QR4.23bn in the review period.Fawran -- a real-time payment service in Qatar, allowing users to send and receive money instantly and securely within the country -- registered as many as 2.21mn transactions valued at QR3.69bn in September 2025.There have been a total of 3.39mn total registered Fawran accounts in September this year.QMP – which allows immediate transfer of funds between registered customers through any registered payment service providers – saw as many as 359,462 transactions valued at QR294.63mn in September 2025. There has been a total of 1.21mn registered wallets in the review period.The QMP is a centralised payment system that was launched in 2020, to enable individuals and corporates to perform instant fund transfers between e-wallets within payment service providers in Qatar.

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has roped in four partners - Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), Qatar Development Bank (QDB), Qatar Research, Development and Innovation (QRDI) Council and Invest Qatar - for its Scale Now programme for digital entrepreneurs. "This strategic collaboration undoubtedly will contribute to promoting the achievement of Scale Now programme and harmonising efforts and direct these efforts that will contribute to the growth of start-ups to build a sustainable and large-scale economy in alignment with our digital agenda," Faraj Jassim Abdullah, Director of the Digital Economy Department at MCIT told media announcing the new partners. The beneficiaries will receive support from MCIT to ensure their ability to penetrate markets, while QDB pledges to provide funding tools and ability for exportation, and Invest Qatar will link those investors with global markets. He said Scale Now programme represents a significant step in empowering digital entrepreneurs in Qatar, equipping them with the tools and guidance needed to scale their businesses and expand into local and global markets. Ali al-Mawlawi, Director of Business Development at MoCI, said the ministry would work with the partners to promote transparency and ensure that the SMEs (small and medium enterprises) have access to funding and opportunities as they are a key pillar to the national economy. "Scale Now programme has a paramount importance as a national platform that accelerates the development and improvement of productivity of SMEs," he said, adding the role of MoCI is to transform the ability of these companies into a real growth by linking with the private sector firms. Mohammed al-Emadi, Executive Director of Incubation and Venture Capital Investment at QDB, said the Scale Now programme complements its support through pre-acceleration and acceleration programmes. “This partnership will enable companies to access investment as well as entrepreneurship talent, provide consultations and accessibility and penetration to markets," he said, adding QDB has incubated and accelerated more than 600 startups. Nada al-Olaqi, Senior Director, Innovation, Development and Piloting Programmes, QRDI Council, said it works in accelerating technologies to contribute to the transition towards knowledge-based economy through financing, building national capacities and mentoring. This partnership create a national platform for development that combine capital, knowledge, policies, as well as innovation to create a new generation of entrepreneurs and consolidate the position of Qatar in the area of innovation and utilising technologies, according to her. "We, along with the other partners from all stakeholders, recognise the importance of the private sector, especially SMEs and startup companies, in realising the strategic vision through the contribution of the private sector," she said. Dr Hamad al-Naimi, Strategy Manager of Invest Qatar, said its role starts with discovering opportunities and developing the businesses, and scaling up and providing accessibility through facilitating contacts with partners in the private and public sector. "We will link those start-pp companies with international investments through our relations," he said, adding "we will enable those companies to expand into new horizons and new markets, and help them in establishing strategic relations and partnerships regionally and internationally." Terming the partnership with MCIT as a 'practical example for the productive cooperation'; he said Invest Qatar would enable and empower entrepreneurship by helping new cohorts in receiving grants and financial support that will contribute to more innovation in the entrepreneurship landscape in Qatar.

Barwa Real Estate Group has sold a plot of land in Al Wakra, owned by Qatar Real Estate Investment Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barwa Real Estate Group.Under the agreement, the sale process for the plot, which has an area of 26,632 sqm, will be completed according to the terms of the agreement, Barwa said in its regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.This transaction is part of Barwa Real Estate's strategy to improve its portfolio performance and divest from certain non-income-generating assets, which will positively reflect on its financial indicators, contributing to achieving sustainable growth in shareholder returns."There is no conflict of interest between the contracting parties in this agreement," the filing said.

QSE edges down on domestic funds’ selling pressure, but M-cap in the positive terrainThe Qatar Stock Exchange yesterday edged down marginally with its key index losing about four points as foreign funds were seen increasingly net profit takers.The telecom, industrials and insurance counters witnessed higher than average selling pressure as the 20-stock Qatar Index was down 0.03% to 10,835.95 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,881 points.The domestic funds turned net profit takers in the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated further to 2.51%.The Gulf individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main bourse, whose capitalisation however added QR0.63bn or 0.1% to QR650.56bn; mainly on microcap segments.The local retail investors’ weakened net buying had its influence on the main market, which saw as many as 0.08mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.19mn trade across 43 deals.The foreign individuals’ lower net buying also had its marginal impact on the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen declining faster than the main barometer of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the Gulf institutions were increasingly bullish in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index declined 0.03% and the All Islamic Index by 0.19%, while the All Share Index rose 0.19% in the main market.The telecom sector index shrank 0.62%, industrials (0.44%) and insurance (0.19%); while transport gained 0.88%, real estate (0.43%), consumer goods and services (0.21%) and banks and financial services (0.19%).As many as 32 stocks gained, while 18 declined and one was unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included QIIB, Ooredoo, Gulf International Services, Qatar Insurance, Industries Qatar, Meeza, Estithmar Holding and Qamco.Nevertheless, about 63% of the traded constituents extended gains with major movers being QLM, Mazaya Qatar, Ahlibank Qatar, Nakilat, Qatar Oman Investment, Inma Holding, Qatar German Medical Devices, Widam Food, Ezdan and United Development Company. In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares appreciate in value.The foreign institutions’ net profit booking increased perceptibly to QR25.67mn compared to QR21.95mn the previous day.The domestic institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR3.45mn against net buyers of QR1mn on Sunday.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking expanded marginally to QR0.42mn compared to QR0.34mn on October 12.The local individual investors’ net selling weakened substantially to QR3.68mn against QR20.17mn the previous day.The foreign retail investors’ net profit booking decreased markedly to QR3.16mn compared to QR4.14mn on Sunday.However, the Gulf institutions’ net buying strengthened significantly to QR14.81mn against QR4.08mn on October 12.The Arab individuals were net buyers to the extent of QR7.88mn compared with net sellers of QR2.41mn the previous day.The Arab institutions had no major net exposure against net buyers to the tune of QR0.31mn on Sunday.The main market saw 8% jump in trade volumes to 144.47mn shares, 22% in value to QR350.41mn and 40% in deals to 18,746.In the venture market, a total of 0.14mn equities valued at QR0.34mn changed hands across 63 transactions.

Doha is all set to witness lower entry barriers for real estate investments, with tokenisation becoming a reality as Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Digital Assets Lab undertakes digital innovation through blockchain-based solutions. "Tokenisation, which converts real-world assets into digital tokens, can positively impact Qatar’s real estate sector by lowering the entry barrier for real estate investment, leading to broader investor participation and increased market liquidity," QFC Authority chief executive officer Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida told the second day of the third Qatar Real Estate Forum, organised by the General Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat). Highlighting that tokenising real estate is among the innovative solutions it is "actively exploring" in the digital assets lab; he said to support this programme, it also introduced the QFC Digital Assets Framework 2024, which establishes the legal and regulatory foundation for digital assets, covering the entire lifecycle from tokenisation and legal recognition of property rights to custody, transfer, and exchange. "This provides the certainty and security that investors and innovators need to embrace these new technologies," he said. Stressing that for the future of real estate, its most significant contribution lies in the leadership in digital innovation; he said "the QFC's Digital Assets Lab is at the forefront of this charge, creating a regulated, collaborative environment for developing and testing blockchain-based solutions". The lab, powered by the Qatar Central Bank, fosters open innovation in Qatar through ‘proof-of-concept and proof-of-value’, accelerating the growth of Qatar's digital sector in line with the vision to establish Doha as a global financial and commercial hub by 2030. Besides the lab, where start-ups, businesses, and researchers can explore and create products, and services related to digital assets and distributed ledger technologies, al-Jaida said the QFC also has the Tech Circle, a space that supports early-stage digital and tech companies, including proptechs, a segment that will only grow as the market expands and demand for efficiency and smart solutions increase. "Proptechs will certainly reshape the real estate sector, and the QFC has the right business and regulatory infrastructure to support their operation and growth," he said. The (real estate) sector plays a vital role in driving economic diversification and remains a key contributor to the national GDP (gross domestic product), he said, highlighting that in the first quarter of this year alone, the sector accounted for 7.4% of GDP, amounting to QR13.44bn. "To strengthen this growth driver, we need to pay attention to its areas that can be improved and where new opportunities may exist," he said. Affirming that the QFC is deeply committed to fostering an environment that drives sustainable growth, and it plays a pivotal role in developing the real estate sector, beginning with making it easy for companies in this sector to establish and operate in Qatar; al-Jaida said "our real estate regulations offer a transparent framework for holding real estate through various corporate vehicles, such as special purpose companies, trusts, and family offices".

Barwa Real Estate Group has sold a land plot in Bahrain Bay, owned by GHIC Real Estate, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Barwa Real Estate.Under the agreement, the sale of the 12,478 sqm plot will be completed according to the terms set forth in the agreement, Barwa said in a mandatory regulatory filing with the Qatar Stock Exchange.This transaction is part of Barwa Real Estate’s strategy to optimise its portfolio performance and divest non-income-generating assets, positively affecting the group’s financial indicators and contributing to sustainable growth in shareholder returns."There are no conflicts of interest among the contracting parties in this agreement," the filing said.

AFG College with the University of Aberdeen has entered into a partnership with Kingdom Konsult, a local consulting firm in sustainability and the circular economy.Both the entities signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the college’s new NBK1 campus, outlining a broad plan for professional, academic, and knowledge-based collaboration.This partnership has been developed to create meaningful opportunities for AFG College students to engage with real-life business environments and build professional competencies that will complement their academic experience."This agreement signed today demonstrates our ongoing commitment as an organisation to bridging the gap between academia and industry," said Sheikha Anwar bint Nawaf al- Thani, chief executive officer of Al Faleh Educational Holding.The scope of the MoU includes the offering of internships for students, giving them direct access to innovative projects that Kingdom Konsult are working on.Such opportunities allow students to apply the theoretical concepts taught in the classroom to a practical setting, thus gaining hands-on experience at a leading sustainability driven consultancy.Kingdom Konsult will participate at the college’s annual careers fair event, offering the opportunity for mentorships, as well as attending other career focused events.The partnership will allow Kingdom Konsult the opportunity to be actively involved in panel discussions, roundtable events, as well as guest lectures, which offers students insights from a leading provider of consultancy services. "This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing Qatar’s sustainability and knowledge-based economy," said Katina Aghayan, founder and chief executive officer of Kingdom Konsult.Kingdom Konsult views education as the foundation of transformation, where young talents are empowered to think critically, innovate responsibly, and lead with purpose, according to her."Together, we are cultivating the next generation of sustainability leaders who will shape a greener, more resilient future for Qatar and the region," she said.AFG College will develop bespoke professional training for the staff of Kingdom Konsult, which will focus on developing their leadership and strategic decision-making abilities. These workshops will be developed in consultation with the firm and delivered by AFG faculty."As the nation moves forward with its drive towards being a knowledge-based economy, such partnerships will prove vital in shaping future generations," Sheikha Anwar said.

Cityscape Qatar 2025, a major event in the Gulf region's property sector, yesterday got off to a glittering start at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), bringing together more than 70 leading developers. This year's edition, inaugurated by HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiya in the presence of Majed bin Abdullah al-Hogail and Khalid bin Ahmad al-Obaidli, president of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority - Aqarat, is expected to see more than QR400mn in transactions. The 13th edition also saw unveiling of the ‘Cityscape Real Estate Investor Programme 2025’, a gateway connecting VIP and high-net-worth investors directly with Qatar's top-tier developers and government decision-makers. It is supported by Visit Qatar. As many as 13 investors, representing nine countries and a combined $2.5bn in assets under management, will gain curated access to deal flows and new investment horizons. The three-day Cityscape Qatar is being held in conjunction with the third Qatar Real Estate Forum (QREF). HE the Minister of Municipality led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a tour of the exhibition as they explored key exhibitors and learned about Qatar's latest development projects and real estate offerings. Cityscape Qatar features an extensive exhibition floor, showcasing a diverse range of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects from both local and international developers. The government Pavilion showcased the strength of Qatar’s real estate sector and the diverse range of investment opportunities available. One of the most transformative initiatives has been Qatar’s groundbreaking property ownership reforms, which grant non-Qataris the eligibility to own property and invest in the real estate sector. These initiatives offer an array of benefits, such as permanent residency and the ability to invest in selected commercial activities. Leading financial institutions in Qatar had their stalls, outlining the attractive mortgage loans with competitive rates and flexible terms, further enhancing the appeal to investors and homebuyers. The growing diversity of property offerings, coupled with the country’s high quality of life, makes Qatar an ideal destination for real estate investments. Qatar had seen a robust 114% year-on-year increase in residential transactions in the second quarter (Q2), indicating growing confidence among investors on resilient performance across the country’s real estate sector, according to Knight Frank, a global property consultancy. The event allows visitors the chance to explore innovative architectural designs, discover lucrative investment opportunities, and gain valuable insights into the market's future trajectory.

Foreign funds’ sell-off drags QSE below 10,900 points; M-cap erodes QR4.29bnReflecting concerns on the international markets due to the US' additional tariffs on China, the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE) today fell about 94 points to settle below 10,900 levels and market capitalisation eroded in excess of QR4bn.The foreign funds were seen net profit takers as the 20-stock Qatar Index shed 0.86% to 10,839.72 points, although it touched an intraday high of 10,932 points.An across the board selling, especially in the insurance, transport and banking counters, was dragged the main market, whose year-to-date gains truncated to 2.54%.About 83% of the traded constituents were in the red in the main bourse, whose capitalisation eroded QR4.29bn or 0.66% to QR649.93bn; mainly on mid and small cap segments.The Arab individuals were increasingly net sellers in the main market, which saw as many as 0.38mn exchange traded funds (sponsored by AlRayan Bank and Doha Bank) valued at QR0.88mn trade across 71 deals.The Gulf funds were also increasingly bearish in the main bourse, whose trade turnover and volumes were on the rise.The Islamic index was seen declining slower than the other indices of the main market, which saw no trading of treasury bills.However, the local retail investors were increasingly net buyers in the main bourse, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.The Total Return Index declined 0.86%, the All Share Index by 0.83% and the All Islamic Index 0.81% in the main market.The insurance sector index tanked 1.35%, transport (1.31%), banks and financial services (0.9%), industrials (0.77%), telecom (0.38%), real estate (0.32%) and consumer goods and services (0.25%).As many as 43 stocks declined, while only eight increased and one was unchanged.Major shakers in the main market included QLM, Qatar National Cement, Qatar Islamic Bank, Qatar Insurance, Qatar German Medical Devices, Lesha Bank, Mannai Corporation, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Qamco, Qatar Electricity and Water, Barwa, Milaha and Nakilat. In the junior bourse, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value.Nevertheless, Ezdan, Ahlibank Qatar, Estithmar Holding, Mazaya Qatar and Zad Holding were among the gainers in the main market.The foreign institutions turned net sellers to the tune of QR21.95mn compared with net buyers of QR22.61mn on October 9.The Arab individual investors’ net selling increased markedly to QR2.41mn against QR1.4mn the previous trading day.The Gulf institutions’ net buying weakened marginally to QR4.08mn compared to QR4.13mn last Thursday.However, the local individual investors were net buyers to the extent of QR20.17mn against net sellers of QR14.28mn on October 9.The foreign retail investors turned net buyers to the tune of QR4.14mn compared with net sellers of QR1.14mn the previous trading day.The domestic institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR1mn against net profit takers of QR7.77mn last Thursday.The Arab institutions’ net buying strengthened marginally to QR0.31mn compared to QR0.15mn on October 9.The Gulf retail investors’ net profit booking shrank noticeably to QR0.34mn against QR2.29mn the previous trading day.The main market saw 24% jump in trade volumes to 133.19mn shares and 10% in value to QR288mn but on 28% contraction in deals to 13,421.In the venture market, a total of 0.03mn equities valued at QR0.07mn changed hands across 14 transactions.

Barwa Real Estate Group, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, yesterday announced the launch of new luxury brand “Barwa Royal” as a premium realty offering and also unveiled the second phase of “Barwa Hills”. These, along with other announcements, were made at the three-day Cityscape 2025, which began here at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. Barwa's strong participation with a range of new real estate and investment offers at the Cityscape reflect its leadership in the realty sector. Barwa Real Estate aims to launch its second brand in real estate development for sale, “Barwa Royal”, which offers fully developed, ready-to-occupy luxury residential units in the most prestigious locations of Jabal Thaileb in the heart of Lusail City. This product represents a highly attractive opportunity for both investors and residents seeking premium living. **media[367718]** Following the tremendous success and the complete sale of all units in the first phase, Barwa will launch the second phase of its Barwa Hills project, located in the Jabal Thaileb area of Lusail, a city representing Qatar’s leap toward the future and offering a wealth of attractions and recreational opportunities for families, residents, and international investors alike. Barwa Hills features high-quality residential units with practical layouts designed to meet residents’ needs while avoiding significant financial burden through a flexible instalment plan. The first phase of the project was launched during Cityscape Qatar 2024, attracting significant attention from exhibition visitors and resulting in the sale of all units. The company now aims to open reservations for the second phase. Continuing its leadership in real estate development and investment, Barwa Real Estate will also introduce a new brand in real estate investment, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in Qatar. "This innovative offering is set to open new horizons in the local real estate market and create unique investment opportunities,” a company spokesman said. Barwa Real Estate Group is also launching a range of exclusive rental promotional offers during Cityscape Qatar 2025. These offers will cover several of its key projects, including the remaining units in the third phase of Madinat Al Mowater, where all previous phases were fully leased through a lottery system due to high demand. Other projects include Madinatna Family Residences, Argentine Neighborhood for Worker Housing, Barwa Al Baraha Worker Housing, and several additional developments. During the exhibition, Barwa Real Estate’s pavilion will witness the signing of several contracts with various companies and entities for leasing properties within its flagship projects. These agreements will contribute to boosting investment, commercial, residential, and educational activities, while increasing the value of the group’s portfolio, reflecting its ongoing approach to expanding the client base and strengthening strategic partnerships in the market.

Total value of contracts awarded in Qatar saw a 116% jump year-on-year this third quarter (Q3) as Doha's successful bid to host the 2030 Asian Games laid solid foundation for the projects market, Kamco Invest, a regional non-banking entity, has said.In contrast, total value of contracts awarded across the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) region fell after four of the six countries recorded year-on-year decreases in project awards during Q3-2025 as geopolitical conflict in the Middle East continue to persist and weigh on risk appetite, Kamco Invest said in its latest report, quoting MEED Projects.Total value of contracts awarded in Qatar surged by 115.9% year-on-year to $13.6bn in Q3-2025."This growth was partially driven by preparations relating to Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2030 Asian Games, which is expected to catalyse a vast array of industrial and infrastructure projects aimed at building, preparing, and upgrading facilities for the event," Kamco said.In the first nine months of 2025, the total value of projects awarded in Qatar improved 27.6% year-on-year to $20.5bn.In terms of sectoral performance, the oil and gas sectors led with the highest values of contracts awarded during Q3-2025 at $6bn and $5bn, respectively.Moreover, total value of projects awarded in the power sector reached $2.3bn in Q3-2025, up from zero awards in Q3-2024. Notable projects awarded during the quarter included about $4bn of contracts won by China Offshore Oil Engineering for the Bul Hanine offshore oil field, located 120 KM offshore in the Gulf waters.The scope entails maintenance and increased oil production at the Bul Hanine field, including installation of four wellhead platforms requiring 80,000 tonnes of fabrication work, expansion of existing offshore production stations, and construction of living quarters.The GCC region saw 27% year-on-year plunge in aggregate value of awards to $54.8bn in Q3-2025, the second-lowest figure in the last ten quarters. This downturn was primarily driven by a sharp contraction in project awards in Saudi Arabia, together with a similar weak performance in the UAE, both of which saw significant year-on-year declines in awards during the period.However, contract awards are expected to gain momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, driven primarily by recoveries in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.“Despite a strong project pipeline, overall project awards in 2025 in the GCC are expected to decline and fall short of the 2024 record contract awards,” Kamco said.Overall, the GCC’s pipeline of pre-execution stage contracts totals $1.78tn. The construction sector holds the largest share of the contracts in the pipeline at 35%, equivalent to $624.2bn, followed by transport ($300bn) and power ($294.2bn).According to MEED, the GCC power sector has at least 29 independent power projects (IPPs) at the bidding or bid-evaluation stages, mainly led by Saudi Arabia and the UAE.One of the notable leading power projects under tender or in bid evaluation in the near term is the 3,000MW Al-Sadawi 2 solar IPP.

The US rate-cut hopes and Gaza ceasefire had their overarching influence on the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE), which reported gains this week vis-a-vis bearish spell in the previous three weeks.Notwithstanding selling pressure in five of the seven sectors, the 20-stock Qatar Index gained 0.65% this week which saw QNB report net profit of QR12.83bn in the first nine months of this year.The Gulf institutions were seen net buyers in the main bourse this week which saw Dukhan Bank post net profit of QR1.19bn in January-September 2025.The Arab individuals were increasingly net buyers in the main market this week which saw Mazaya Real Estate Development, in partnership with Al Jassasya Holding Company, launch a new project “Via D’oro” on Qetaifan Island in Lusail City.The Arab institutions turned bullish, albeit at lower levels, in the main bourse this week which saw QNB Group receive licence for a digital-first banking entity, ezbank, from the Central Bank of Egypt.The foreign funds’ substantially weakened net selling had its influence on the main bourse this week which saw QNB Group's successful refinancing of $1.5bn unsecured syndicated term loan facility.However, the local retail investors were increasingly net profit takers in the main market this week which saw a total of 0.77mn AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR1.88mn trade across 267 deals.The domestic funds were also increasingly net sellers in the main bourse this week which saw a total of 7,307 AlRayan Bank-sponsored exchange traded fund QATR worth QR0.08mn trade across nine deals.The Islamic index was seen gaining slower than the other indices of the main market this week, which saw no trading of sovereign bonds.Market capitalisation expanded QR3.63bn or 0.56% to QR654.22bn on the back of mid cap segments this week which saw no trading of treasury bills.Trade turnover and volumes were on the decrease in the main and junior markets this week which saw the consumer goods, industrials and realty sectors together constitute more than 77% of the total trade volumes.The Total Return Index rose 0.65%, the All Share Index by 0.71% and the All Islamic Index by 0.25%.The banks and financial services sector index shot up 1.56% and telecom 0.63%; while transport declined 0.74%, insurance (0.7%), real estate (0.65%), consumer goods and services (0.61%) and industrials (0.19%) this week.The market was otherwise skewed towards shakers with as many as 31 constituents reporting declines, while 20 gained and two were unchanged this week.Major gainers in the main market included Qamco, QNB, Al Mahhar Holding, Al Faleh Educational Holding, Qatar Islamic Bank, QIIB, Dukhan Bank, Aamal Company and Ooredoo.Nevertheless, about 59% of the traded constituents were in the red with major losers being Widam Food, Inma Holding, Ezdan, Qatar National Cement, Gulf Warehousing, Qatar German Medical Devices, Medicare Group, United Development Company, Mazaya Qatar and Nakilat in the main bourse.In the venture market, Techno Q saw its shares depreciate in value this week.The Gulf institutions turned net buyers to the tune of QR43.96mn compared with net sellers of QR50.01mn the previous week.The Arab individual investors’ net buying increased perceptibly to QR7.68mn against QR2.25mn the week ended October 2.The Arab institutions were net buyers to the extent of QR0.15mn compared with no major net exposure a week ago.The foreign institutions’ net selling weakened significantly to QR0.97mn against QR90.53mn the previous week.However, the Qatari individuals turned net sellers to the tune of QR38.51mn compared with net buyers of QR124.11mn the week ended October 2.The domestic institutions’ net profit booking expanded marginally to QR13.16mn against QR12.59mn a week ago.The Gulf individuals were net sellers to the extent of QR0.73mn compared with net buyers of QR8.85mn the previous week.The foreign retail investors’ net buying shrank noticeably to QR1.57mn against QR17.92mn the week ended October 2.The main market saw a 9% contraction in trade volumes to 573.88mn shares, 24% in value to QR1.42bn and 22% in deals to 83,240 this week.In the venture market, trade volumes plummeted 90% to 0.06mn equities, value by 91% to QR0.15mn and transactions by 80% to 38.