In a move to bolster its domestic economy, Qatar is intensifying efforts to diversify beyond its reliance on hydrocarbons. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has announced the formation of a new division named Doha Investment, aimed at expanding domestic investments and invigorating the country’s private sector. This development was unveiled by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani at the Qatar Economic Forum held in New York.
The Doha Investment division will play a crucial role in managing QIA’s local portfolio, initially overseeing 45 state-owned enterprises. These enterprises account for about one-third of the sovereign wealth fund’s total assets. By supporting leading Qatari companies and emerging businesses, the initiative seeks to strengthen capital markets and attract international investment and expertise, thus reinforcing Qatar’s economic framework.
Historically, QIA, established in 2005, has concentrated heavily on international investments. However, in recent years, it has increasingly turned its attention to the domestic market, investing in sectors such as aviation, banking, telecommunications, real estate, and hospitality. The establishment of Doha Investment underscores this strategic shift towards enhancing national economic resilience.
The division is expected to focus on fostering the development of national companies, promoting privatization, and increasing private-sector involvement. These efforts align with Qatar’s broader economic diversification goals, as evidenced by the 4.8% growth in the country’s non-hydrocarbon economy in 2025, surpassing the overall real GDP growth rate of 2.9%.
By leveraging Doha Investment, Qatar aims to drive its economic diversification strategy forward, ensuring a robust and sustainable economic future. The initiative represents a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce dependency on hydrocarbons and position itself as a dynamic player in the global economy.