Qatar witnessed a significant rise in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024, marking a remarkable 109.6% year-on-year increase according to the Investment Promotion Agency (Invest Qatar).
Qatar Appealing To Long Term, Sustainable Businesses
Notably, 241 projects were recorded largely concentrated across Qatar’s key sectors. The highest number were retail and wholesale trade projects (77) and administration and support services (41 projects). Importantly, greenfield enterprises made up 74%, underscoring Qatar’s appeal for long-term, sustainable investments. As a result, 9,348 new jobs were generated, marking a 122.7% increase when compared against 2023. The increase in FDI is attributed to targeted investment policies and a supportive business environment. Moreover, the country’s commitment to economic diversification in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 has driven momentum. Importantly, a series of policy reforms, streamlined licensing procedures and enhanced digital services have improved the ease of doing business. Furthermore, the introduction of forward-looking strategies, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Strategy 2024-2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) have increased opportunities.
The Invest Qatar Gateway Offers Dedicated Support to Investors
In terms of facilitating FDI, the Invest Qatar Gateway offers dedicated support through its Investor Relations team. It currently has over 11,000 registered users and connects investors with business opportunities, tenders and potential partners. Notably, it recently announced a strategic partnership with Qatar National Bank (QNB) offering investors tailored onboarding packages and expedited corporate bank account opening. Importantly, Qatar’s international competitiveness is advancing with the country rising to 11th in the IMD World Competitiveness Index 2024. The State sits 19th in Logistics Infrastructure in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index. Furthermore, the nation ranked 1st globally for tax policy and basic infrastructure (IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2024) and 4th for ICT development (ITU ICT Development Index 2024). Moreover, Qatar’s commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation is evident in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (2024-2025), where it ranked 1st.
Qatar Leads Key GCC Competitiveness Metrics
Qatar also leads the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in several key metrics. The country ranked 1st for both policy towards foreign investment (EIU Business Environment Ranking 2025) and for financial services (Global Opportunity Index 2025). Most importantly, it placed 1st for economic resilience (FM Global Resilience Index 2025) and 2nd for business and investment opportunities.
Soutien Group Can Help You Start Your Business in Qatar
Soutien Group is part of a network of consultants, partners and investors. Our clients are corporate, private and international with an interest in exploring new markets. We can offer expertise in Market Research and Assessment Qatar, Qatar Business Case, Qatar Business Model Development. Feasibility Study and Business Plan Qatar, Organizational and Operational Structuring Qatar, Qatar Sponsorship and Partnership, Company Formation Qatar among others.
Please click on the link to learn more about opportunities and possibilities in the State of Qatar as well as the initiatives of Soutien Group.
