The creation of a new division within the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) could significantly bolster Qatar’s domestic economy by diversifying investments and enhancing private sector growth. Announced at the Qatar Economic Forum in New York, this initiative aims to support the development of national companies and attract international investments.
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani introduced the division, named Doha Investment, highlighting its role in managing QIA’s local portfolio, which includes 45 state-owned enterprises. This represents about a third of the sovereign wealth fund’s total assets, signaling a substantial commitment to strengthening Qatar’s domestic investment landscape.
Doha Investment’s focus will not only be on supporting existing companies but also on encouraging the privatization of state-owned enterprises and boosting private sector participation. Such efforts are expected to promote economic diversification, particularly in non-hydrocarbon sectors, aligning with Qatar’s long-term economic objectives.
Historically, QIA, established in 2005, has concentrated on international ventures. However, recent years have seen a pivot towards expanding its domestic portfolio, with investments in key sectors such as aviation, banking, telecommunications, real estate, and hospitality. This strategic shift is underscored by Qatar’s non-hydrocarbon economy, which witnessed a growth of 4.8% in 2025, surpassing the overall real GDP growth of 2.9%.
By fostering a robust domestic investment environment, Qatar aims to attract global expertise and capital, further solidifying its position as a dynamic economic player in the region. The establishment of Doha Investment is a pivotal step towards realizing these ambitions, ensuring that the country’s economic development is sustainable and diversified beyond its traditional hydrocarbon resources.