Shaping Qatar's growth through private sector leadership and innovation

Al Faisal Holding highlights the business community's pivotal role in Qatar's economic transformation through Oxford Business Group's latest Global Platform video

Doha, November 2024: In a compelling exploration of Qatar's dynamic economic landscape, Al Faisal Holding demonstrates the pivotal role of the private sector in driving the nation's transformation. The company showcases its diverse portfolio, emphasising its significant contributions to various sectors, including hospitality, industry and real estate, while adhering to the principles of Qatar National Vision 2030. This insightful examination is featured on Oxford Business Group's Global Platform, reflecting the organisation's commitment to promoting in-depth analysis of critical developments within emerging markets.

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Qatar has successfully demonstrated exemplary management across various aspects, contributing to its strong global standing and fostering relationships built on mutual respect and shared interests. This has proven attractive to investors from both Qatar and abroad, positioning the country as a future commercial centre akin to Singapore and Hong Kong.

The private sector has played a significant role in Qatar's urban development, contributing 70-80% to projects such as Al Dafna and The Pearl, while the government has focused on critical infrastructure. This collaborative approach extends to the manufacturing sector in Mesaieed Industrial City, where governmental support fosters creativity and entrepreneurship.

Significant investments in infrastructure, including one of the leading global airports and a new port in Doha, enhance Qatar's accessibility and market appeal. The establishment of a free zone further supports manufacturing by providing a comprehensive one-stop shop for business needs.

As part of its economic diversification strategy, Qatar is enhancing its hospitality sector to establish itself as a world-class tourist destination. Al Faisal Holding has made substantial contributions through its fully-owned subsidiary, ARTIC, which boasts a portfolio of 35 hotels, including 12 in Qatar and others across the MENA region, Europe, and the US.

With a diverse investment strategy, Al Faisal Holding leverages insights across various sectors to identify emerging opportunities in new sectors  this includes a focus on health IT, Food Security alongside ongoing commitments to Real Estate, Trading, Services and Construction.

Qatar National Vision 2030 serves as a roadmap for investors, highlighting the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in decision-making. As a cultural hub showcasing local and global heritage, Qatar is home to the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, which houses over 17,000 artefacts and underscores the commitment to preserving heritage for future generations.

Al Faisal Holding's contributions extend beyond business, supporting culture, education, and sports through initiatives such as the Sheikh Faisal Sports Academy and the Al Samriya Riding School. This multifaceted approach reflects a dedication to the community and the promotion of well-rounded development.

Operating within a dynamic environment, Al Faisal Holding's diversified operations enable it to mitigate risks and adapt to economic fluctuations. With a legacy of over 60 years, the company prioritises strong corporate governance to support family succession and business needs in an evolving landscape.

The listing of Aamal on the Qatar Stock Exchange in 2007 set a precedent for other companies, showcasing the potential of family-owned businesses in capital markets. This strategic move has encouraged broader participation in the stock exchange, further enhancing the financial landscape in Qatar.

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, was the main interviewee, alongside key members of his management team and board members. He expressed his belief that 'Qatar will one day become one of the most important commercial centers in the world, just like Singapore and Hong Kong,' highlighting the country's potential to rival these major trade hubs.

Sheikh Mohamed Bin Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Vice Chairman of Al Faisal Holding and another key interviewee to the video, added that 'Qatar has transformed into a more sustainable economy, less reliant on the hydrocarbons sector.' 'This transformation has been driven by a clear vision and a private sector committed to supporting it', he added.

Tarek El Sayed, Managing Director and CEO of Al Rayyan Tourism Investment Company (ARTIC), highlighted ARTIC's role as the international investment arm of Al Faisal Holding. He emphasized ARTIC as the bridge for regional and international expansion making Al Faisal Holding one of the first private Qatari companies to expand its operations internationally, with a growing footprint across MENA, Europe, and the US.