Qatar construction activity accelerates in Q2 2026

Doha, Qatar experienced heightened construction activity during the second quarter of 2026, according to the Ministry of Municipality. The government reported a significant surge in building permits, licences, certificates and approved plans compared to the first quarter. A total of 2,240 building permits were issued in Q2, up from 1,777 in Q1, marking a 26.1 per cent increase.

Small projects led the way, with 1,703 permits issued, a 29.8 per cent rise from 1,332 in the previous quarter. Major projects also saw an uptick, with 91 permits issued versus 78 in Q1, while other projects witnessed a rise to 446 permits from 367. The broader construction activity across Qatar was evident in the increase in all three categories.

Licences and certificates also saw a substantial uptick, with 2,152 transactions issued in Q2, compared to 1,620 in Q1, a 32.8 per cent increase. Building completion certificates were the largest category, with 1,079 certificates issued, a 33.5 per cent increase from 808 in the first quarter. Maintenance permits rose to 397 from 272, while demolition permits increased slightly to 216 from 205.

Property information certificates rose to 460 from 335, indicating continued demand for services related to existing buildings and properties. The Ministry also approved 119,875 building plans, a 83.5 per cent increase from 65,338 in Q1.