Unlocking Business Opportunities in Qatar: Insights from the Ontario & CQBF Webinar
On September 10, 2024, the Canadian Qatari Business Forum (CQBF), in collaboration with the Government of Ontario and the Canada Trade Commissioner Service in Qatar, hosted an insightful webinar focused on Doing Business in Qatar. The event, which spotlighted high-growth sectors such as High Tech, AI, and Solar Energy, provided attendees with a unique opportunity to explore the flourishing markets of Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The webinar attracted a diverse audience, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors eager to explore new opportunities and build meaningful partnerships in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
“I recently participated in a webinar hosted by the Government of Ontario, the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service in Qatar, and The Canadian Qatari Business Forum (CQBF) Business Forum. The discussion centered on “Doing Business in Qatar,” with a spotlight on opportunities in tech, AI, healthcare, education, finance and energy. At Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority, we facilitate companies in setting up in Qatar through our exceptional platform offering unique and unparalleled benefits.”
Key Sectors Highlighted: Technology, AI, Solar Energy, and More
Yasser M. Dhouib, Executive Director of CQBF, emphasized the significance of this event in enhancing business collaboration between Canada and Qatar. “The webinar offered Canadian companies valuable insights into Qatar’s dynamic business environment, particularly in key sectors such as technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and solar energy.”
The discussion also covered the diverse range of sectors experiencing growth in Qatar and the GCC region, including:
- High Tech
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Clean-Tech & Solar Energy
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Finance
- Transportation & Logistics
- Education
- Agri-Food
- Retail
These industries play a critical role in Qatar’s National Vision 2030, aimed at economic diversification and becoming a leading hub for technological and innovative solutions in the region.
Strategic Partners: Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority & Ministry of Communications and Information Technology
One of the key highlights of the webinar was the participation of several important institutions from Qatar. Notably, the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority was represented by Muna Al-Thani and Elkhair Balla, Senior Executive – Investment Qatar, alongside officials from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in the State of Qatar.
Their contributions provided participants with a deep understanding of Qatar’s strategic vision and its commitment to fostering foreign investment and international business partnerships. The QFC Authority highlighted how its robust platform offers unique benefits for companies looking to establish and expand their operations in Qatar. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology further emphasized Qatar’s dedication to advancing its technology and digital infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for businesses in the tech sector.
A Collaborative Platform for Growth
The webinar provided a valuable platform for Canadian companies to connect with key stakeholders from Qatar, allowing them to explore investment opportunities in sectors aligned with their business objectives.
Dhouib noted, “This event not only gave participants a clear understanding of the opportunities in Qatar, but it also facilitated important connections with QFC Authority, Qatar Investment Authority, and other strategic partners, helping them gain a foothold in one of the world’s most promising economies.”
The discussions offered key insights into Qatar’s business dynamics and how companies can leverage Qatar’s favorable regulatory environment and economic growth to enter or expand their presence in the region.
The Importance of High-Tech and AI in Qatar’s Future
Qatar is rapidly emerging as a global tech hub, with particular focus on industries like AI, solar energy, and clean-tech. As part of Qatar’s long-term vision, the country aims to position itself as a leader in technology-driven innovation, making it an ideal destination for businesses in these sectors.
Through the webinar, Canadian businesses learned about opportunities to collaborate with Qatari companies, enter the AI and machine learning markets, and contribute to the country’s clean energy transition. “This webinar gave participants a first-hand look at the immense growth potential in Qatar’s high-tech sector, which is quickly becoming a cornerstone of its economy,” added Dhouib.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Bilateral Business Relations
As Canada and Qatar approach the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2024, there is renewed momentum to further strengthen business ties. Dhouib expressed confidence in the future of Canadian-Qatari partnerships, stating, “This webinar is only the beginning of what will be a long and prosperous relationship between businesses in our two nations.”
The Canadian-Qatari Business Forum will continue to serve as a key facilitator of these relationships, helping Canadian companies navigate the Qatari market and identify opportunities for growth and expansion.
The Ontario & CQBF Webinar on Doing Business in Qatar highlighted the wide range of opportunities available to Canadian businesses in sectors such as technology, AI, solar energy, and more. The participation of key institutions, such as the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Authority, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and the Qatar Investment Authority, underscored the strategic importance of this event.
As both nations look ahead to 2024, with the celebration of their 50th diplomatic anniversary, the CQBF remains committed to fostering stronger business partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for businesses in Canada and Qatar.