Doha, Qatar: On March 22, 2025, the Qatar Chamber officially launched its new strategy for 2025-2030, aiming to position Qatar as a global strategic hub for the private sector. This ambitious plan seeks to make Qatar the top choice for business, focusing on resource sustainability and service development amidst ongoing digital transformations and economic changes.
The vision set forth in this strategy is ambitious. As HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al-Thani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Qatar Chamber, elaborated, the mission aims to promote and support the Qatari private sector on both local and global fronts, representing and defending its interests effectively.
The newly approved strategy is built on six primary objectives: to develop the business environment; to support and encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs; to transform the Chamber into a global hub for communication and influence; to advance into a digital economy; to establish the Chamber's positive image by enhancing performance; and to achieve financial sustainability.
To strengthen the support for SMEs, the strategy proposes the creation of a specialized department dedicated to feasibility and market studies. Moreover, the Chamber plans to form an entrepreneurship development center in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and establish a dedicated body within the Chamber that will oversee innovation and SMEs.
One of the standout components of the strategy is the development of an innovation index in coordination with specialized consultancies, which are expected to foster entrepreneurship and innovation more broadly. To further support investment initiatives, the strategy focuses on launching a new platform that will highlight investment opportunities, featuring government investment projects, international prospects, and funding avenues.
An additional aim of the new strategy is to attract both local and foreign investments. This will be achieved through assisting the government in fostering a robust economy while also reviewing business-related laws and regulations. The Chamber intends to reinforce its role as a crucial link between the government and the private sector and to promote public-private partnerships (PPPs).
The transition to a digital economy is also a cornerstone of the strategy. The Qatar Chamber is committed to digitizing all services and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize daily operations. Establishing a Qatari e-marketing platform is part of this effort, which will connect the Arab world with global markets and serve as a reliable gateway to business services and consultations.
In terms of organizational improvements, the strategy outlines plans to enhance the image of the Chamber by implementing performance improvements, which includes hiring skilled Qatari professionals. It also encompasses a new approach for the Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA), along with an expansion of the Research and Studies Department to include additional expertise.
Strengthening the Exhibitions Department is high on the agenda as well, with plans to organize exhibitions and conferences that will highlight both local and international businesses. Continuous skill development for workers in the Qatari private sector is also key, with an emphasis on organizing monthly meetings with business owners to facilitate dialogue and collaboration.
Notably, the strategy aims to boost participation from women in business by activating the role of the Qatari Businesswomen's Forum. Programs to encourage companies to invest in employee training will also be introduced, alongside field visits to companies and factories, enabling a clearer identification of challenges and potential solutions.
Furthermore, as part of expanding private sector engagement, collaborations with the International Chamber of Commerce-Qatar (ICC-Qatar) will be enhanced. The Chamber also plans to work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to establish commercial representation offices at its new headquarters in Lusail City, aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment in Qatar.
The strategy also emphasizes the importance of transparency and data organization, with plans to enhance the Chamber's database while immediately improving the auditing process for issuing commercial records. The goal here is to create a comprehensive directory that classifies companies based on their activities. Both electronic and printed directories will be published, along with the launch of virtual exhibitions that showcase both local and international firms.
This comprehensive 2025-2030 strategy reflects a concerted effort by the Qatar Chamber to adapt to evolving economic realities and enhance its influence regionally and globally. The integration of innovative practices, alongside a dedicated focus on sustainability and digital advancements, marks a significant step forward in solidifying Qatar's status as a leading player in the global business landscape.