QFZ signs MoU with Emerson to advance Qatar’s industrial automation capabilities

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) and Emerson have reached an agreement to strengthen industrial automation capabilities in the region through a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The MoU was signed by QFZ CEO Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Faisal al-Thani and Emerson Global Sales Group president Judson Duncan during the Qatar Economic Forum (QEF): UNGA Special Edition 2026 in New York.

The MoU aims to establish a regional operations centre within Qatar's free zones, which would offer various specialized services. These services include a flow-metre calibration and service hub equipped with an in-house laboratory for testing and calibrating flow metres utilized in processing facilities across Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Additionally, the centre will feature a repair facility and rapid spare-parts service for field instrumentation, ensuring enhanced access to specialized technical support throughout the region.

Other capabilities encompassed by the MoU involve the assembly, integration, and testing of automation and safety systems, along with a dedicated training center for promoting technical skills development and collaboration. The agreement also encourages broader ecosystem development through partnerships with Emerson partners, suppliers, research institutions, and academia.

These collaborative efforts will bolster industrial value chains, foster Qatari talent growth, and broaden access to Emerson's expertise and solutions in Qatar and regional markets.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his enthusiasm, stating that Emerson's entry into Qatar's Free Zones will capitalize on the country's growth opportunities and leverage the free zone's industrial clusters to bring together global expertise, advanced technologies, and specialized capabilities. This partnership highlights the robust relationship between Qatar and the United States and underscores the trust placed in the locally developed ecosystem.

Judson Duncan emphasized the significance of the agreement in reinforcing Emerson's presence and capabilities in the region. Qatar's commitment to industrial and digital diversification, supported by QFZ's integrated ecosystem and strategic connectivity, provides a solid foundation for growth. Duncan highlighted Emerson's intention to expand access to its automation technologies, services, and expertise while assisting customers in improving reliability, efficiency, and operational performance.

Through strategic collaborations, QFZ continues to facilitate industrial innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth, reinforcing the free zone's value proposition for investors and its role in advancing Qatar's globally competitive industrial ecosystem.