Qatar’s FDI rises 3.3% to QR172bn in first quarter

In the first quarter of 2026, Qatar's foreign direct investment (FDI) experienced a 3.3% increase, reaching QR172.2bn, according to the National Planning Council (NPC). This growth was observed alongside an increase in outward FDI by 3.5% to QR221.7bn, revealed in the FDI Survey conducted in collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank.

The NPC secretary-general, Dr Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak al-Khalifa, highlighted that the rise in outward investment pointed to the growing influence of Qatari companies in global markets and the establishment of strategic economic partnerships. These developments are crucial for asset diversification and securing long-term returns for Qatar.

Dr al-Khalifa emphasized that the increase in inward FDI was a "positive indicator of Qatar’s investment trajectory." The NPC's analysis extends beyond mere volume of investment to consider its quality and its implications for economic diversification, productivity enhancements, technology transfer, and the expansion of high-value-added sectors.

The council's primary objective for the upcoming period is to further boost the appeal of the Qatari economy to high-quality investments and expedite growth in non-hydrocarbon sectors. These efforts align with the Third National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030.