‘Shura Council elections to ensure growth in all sectors’, says Qatari entrepreneur

The recently concluded Shura Council elections, which has earned praise from both the local and international community, is another milestone for Qatar as it strives for economic diversification and good governance, according to Qatari entrepreneur Farhan al-Sayed.“The vision and wisdom of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani is taking Qatar to new heights and a wide range of political and economic achievements both at the domestic and international front,” al-Sayed told Gulf Times on Sunday.“Qatar’s first legislative elections is a historical moment for Qatar and its people. With a modest number of participants, women empowerment was among the highlights of the election process. The elections will ensure Qatar’s growth in all sectors, and it will also bring an immense responsibility for the newly-elected members who are expected to steer Qatar towards further growth in social, cultural, and economic development," he said.At the same time, al-Sayed also expressed optimism on Qatar’s economy, which is reported to witness further growth going forward. “Qatar’s economy is mainly hydrocarbon-based, which accounts for 70% of its GDP. The recent high in oil and gas prices will boost the local economy in 2021 and 2022, creating further opportunities for local and international traders and investors. This economic growth will ensure the smooth movement and completion of projects for 2021 and 2022, as well as other projects in the pipeline,” he pointed out. Al-Sayed, who is also the president of the International Walking Football Federation for Asia and Qatar, said the steady easing of Covid-19 protocols in Qatar is attracting foreign visitors to the country, which in turn will create an “economic trickle-down effect” that would benefit the local market and sectors like tourism, retail, and hospitality, among others.“The Amir Cup final between Al Sadd Club and Al Rayyan Club will showcase the state-of-art-stadium designed by local architect Ibrahim Jaidah, who was honoured with a prestigious award at Cannes."Another big achievement for Qatar is the staging of the first edition of the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup and the signing of a 10-year agreement to host Formula 1 races, which has a huge fan base and following. This will further enhance the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries in the country,” he said.Al-Sayed also said many face-to-face events are being held in Doha, in adherence to health and safety regulations, such as Project Qatar, which opens today at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) and Cityscape Qatar also this October, as well as the Qatar Travel Mart and Hospitality Qatar next month.