Invest Qatar receives 2026 United Nations Investment Promotion Award

Invest Qatar has been awarded the prestigious 2026 United Nations Investment Promotion Award for its commitment to nurturing high-potential startups and technology firms through the Startup Qatar initiative. This national effort aims to propel Qatar into a leading global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in the digital economy.

The award was chosen from a field of 48 entries submitted by countries around the world, with judges evaluating the nominees based on their creative investment promotion strategies, success in attracting sustainable foreign direct investment, and contributions to digital transformation and sustainable development. Dr. Hamad Rashid Al Naimi, Chief Strategy Officer at Invest Qatar, emphasized that this recognition highlights Qatar's collective achievements in constructing a robust, efficient, and globally competitive startup ecosystem.

The Startup Qatar program offers a comprehensive suite of incentives, such as free business registration, AI Compute Credits, and tailored residency programs, which have led to the establishment of over 850 startups in the country. Additionally, the initiative's funding programs have drawn substantial international interest, resulting in more than 10,000 applications and supporting over 50 startups in securing more than US$100 million in funding.

Moreover, Startup Qatar facilitates connections with 16 venture capital funds in Qatar, enabling entrepreneurs to engage with potential investors. The award underscores the collaborative nature of Startup Qatar, which brings together key stakeholders from across Qatar's startup community, including government ministries, financial institutions, and tech parks, to provide startups with direct access to essential resources and support.