Invest Qatar: Catalyzing Innovation and Advancing Digital Transformation Through Quantum Technology

Qatar is redefining itself as a global leader in innovation and investment, drawing international businesses to its dynamic market. In this exclusive interview, we explore the pivotal role Invest Qatar plays in driving economic diversification, fostering sustainable growth, and supporting cutting-edge sectors like quantum technology. We also uncover why Qatar’s forward-thinking vision, robust infrastructure, and pro-business policies make it an ideal destination for companies across the globe.

What is your current role, and what is the primary focus of your company?

The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) plays a fundamental role in positioning Qatar as a leading global business hub. Our mission is to attract and facilitate investments that drive economic diversification and foster sustainable growth across key sectors.

We work collaboratively with businesses, gaining a deep understanding of their strategic objectives and supporting them at every stage of their investment journey. By connecting companies with the right resources, stakeholders and opportunities, we enable their success within Qatar’s dynamic market. Our comprehensive services include:

• Providing in-depth insights into Qatar’s business environment, regulatory framework, sectoral opportunities and emerging market trends.
• Assisting with the establishment process, including organising site visits and facilitating key introductions and meetings with relevant decision-makers.
• Connecting businesses with strategic stakeholders and offering tailored incentives that align with their growth objectives.

Through our proactive and dedicated approach, we empower businesses to leverage the wealth of opportunities presented by Qatar’s vibrant economy, pursuing a seamless investment experience.

Quantum.Tech is expanding into Qatar with the inaugural event taking place this January. What makes Qatar attractive for Quantum companies to bring their business to the region?

Qatar is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for international companies seeking to establish or expand their presence in the region. With strategic investments in cutting-edge infrastructure, education and logistics, the country has created an ecosystem that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and growth.

The nation’s commitment to digital transformation is underpinned by a business-friendly environment. Backed by competitive corporate tax rates, streamlined profit repatriation policies and simplified commercial registration processes, Qatar’s business landscape provides a strong foundation for companies looking to scale. Qatar is also dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement by offering grants, funding programmes and incentives tailored to SMEs and startups. The nation is evolving into a global hub for digital innovation, thanks to a clear regulatory framework and pro-business policies.

With its forward-thinking vision, significant investments, robust regulatory framework and pro-business policies, Qatar is emerging as a global hub for digital innovation. The country is shaping a new era of technological advancement, positioning itself as an ideal destination for tech, digital and quantum companies to thrive and drive the region's dynamic future.

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What is Qatar doing to advance digital transformation? Are there any notable partnerships or collaborations in quantum technology or other areas to support this progress?

Qatar is advancing its digital transformation through strategic initiatives led by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), including the Smart Qatar Program (TASMU). This program is at the forefront, modernising public service delivery across critical sectors such as transport, logistics, environment, healthcare and sports. As part of its vision, Qatar has prioritised 15 key technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity, with plans to significantly increase digital investments, from $1.65 billion in 2022 to $5.7 billion by 2026.

Strategic partnerships with global tech giants like Microsoft and Google are testament to the country’s favourable business environment. Notable milestones include Microsoft’s first global data center in the country in 2022 and the establishment of Google Cloud region, which is the first in the GCC and North Africa in 2023 .

In the field of quantum technology, Qatar focuses on communications and sensing, leveraging its existing strengths while preparing for future advancements. Key initiatives include The Quantum Hackathon by Qatar Development Bank and the Qatar Business Incubation Center, fostering innovation in quantum applications. Additionally, Ooredoo, Qatar’s leading telecommunications operator, is collaborating with Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Qatar Centre for Quantum Computing to establish Qatar’s first quantum communication testbed. This initiative aims to develop a secure quantum communication system that surpasses traditional cryptographic methods, paving the way for a future Quantum Internet. It positions Qatar as a regional leader in quantum communication, attracting international interest and driving economic growth and technological innovation.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for quantum technology development and application investment in Qatar over the upcoming years?

As Qatar progresses, it remains focused on advancing technology as a cornerstone of its Digital Agenda 2030. By transforming its ICT infrastructure and embracing emerging technologies, Qatar is building a future-ready economy that drives sustainable growth, fosters innovation and attracts digital investments, solidifying its position as a global hub.

While quantum computing in Qatar is still in its early stages, the global market is expected to grow significantly, from $1.9 billion in 2023 to $8 billion by 2027 in spending on associated software and services, according to Communications Industry Researchers .

Qatar is proactively exploring and developing quantum technology through initiatives such as the Qatar Center for Quantum Computing (QC2) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University , supported by a major government grant to advance quantum research in the region. Earlier last year, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology hosted Qatar’s inaugural Quantum Computing Workshop , bringing together stakeholders from the government and private sectors to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing. These initiatives underline Qatar’s significant strides to become a key driver of technological innovation, ensuring long-term growth and leadership in the evolving digital landscape.