Industry Snapshots
The Case Hub’s perspective on key industry environments and trends, which we use as the context for every case we write.
Qatar’s agriculture industry is small but strategically significant, focusing on achieving food security despite challenging climatic conditions. With limited arable land and scarce water resources, the sector relies on innovative technologies such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and desalination. Companies like Hassad Food and Baladna are spearheading efforts to boost local food production, particularly in dairy and livestock. Government initiatives and subsidies have supported the growth of domestic agriculture since the 2017 blockade highlighted the need for self-reliance. Currently contributing approximately 0.2% to GDP, the sector remains stable but essential, addressing long-term sustainability and resilience. As Qatar continues to invest in research and technology, agriculture is expected to play a growing role in the nation’s food security strategy.
Major Players: Baladna, Hassad Food
Factor of the Future: AgriTech Innovation
The construction industry in Qatar is booming, supported by ongoing urban development projects and infrastructure investments. Large-scale projects like Lusail City, the Doha Metro, and stadiums built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup have established Qatar as a regional hub for modern infrastructure. Organizations like Qatari Diar and Ashghal lead efforts to enhance connectivity and build sustainable cities. With construction contributing approximately 15% to GDP, it is a cornerstone of economic diversification. The government’s focus on smart cities, green building initiatives, and housing development ensures sustained growth in the sector. As Qatar transitions into its post-World Cup phase, construction continues to thrive, driven by demand for urban expansion and strategic developments aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Major Players: Qatar Diar, Ashghal (Public Works Authority), Redco International
Factor of the Future: Smart Cities Development
Education is a priority in Qatar’s long-term development plans, aligning with its goal to build a knowledge-based economy under Qatar National Vision 2030. Qatar Foundation and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education lead efforts to develop world-class educational infrastructure and programs. The country hosts branches of prestigious international universities, including Carnegie Mellon University, attracting a global student base. Vocational training and research institutions play a critical role in workforce development and innovation. Contributing north of 3% to GDP (as of 2019), the education sector reflects Qatar’s commitment to human capital development. With ongoing investments in digital learning platforms and STEM education, the sector continues to grow and modernize.
Major Players: Qatar Foundation, Ministry of Education and Higher Education
Factor of the Future: AI-Driven Learning
The energy sector is the backbone of Qatar’s economy, driven primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. QatarEnergy and QatarEnergyLNG are global leaders in LNG production, helping the country maintain its position as the world’s top LNG exporter. With a contribution of nearly 50% to GDP, the energy sector is the dominant economic force. Current initiatives focus on increasing LNG production capacity, exploring renewable energy sources, and reducing carbon emissions. The North Field Expansion Project is a major development aimed at sustaining Qatar’s energy dominance. The sector’s upward trajectory underpins Qatar’s international influence and economic stability.
Major Players: QatarEnergy, QatarEnergyLNG, ExxonMobil Qatar, TotalEnergies Qatar
Factor of the Future: Renewable Energy Transition
The entertainment industry in Qatar is expanding rapidly, reflecting the country’s ambition to become a global cultural and leisure hub. Iconic venues like Katara Cultural Village and The Pearl-Qatar host festivals, concerts, and exhibitions, while Qatar’s film and media sectors gain international recognition through entities like beIN Media Group. The success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup has boosted Qatar’s reputation for hosting world-class events, driving demand for entertainment infrastructure. Contributing around 3% to GDP, the sector supports tourism and fosters cultural diplomacy. With ongoing investments in entertainment and leisure facilities, this sector is poised for continued growth.
Major Players: Katara Cultural Village, beIN Media Group, Qatar Museums
Factor of the Future: Cultural Tourism
Qatar’s healthcare system is one of the most advanced in the region, offering universal healthcare and state-of-the-art facilities. Key institutions such as Hamad Medical Corporation and Sidra Medicine lead in providing high-quality medical care, research, and education. The government prioritizes public health, investing in specialized hospitals, advanced medical technology, and preventive care programs. Healthcare contributes approximately 2% to GDP, and is critical to enhancing Qatar’s human capital. As the population grows, particularly among expatriates, the demand for healthcare services is increasing. Ongoing initiatives aim to expand capacity and improve efficiency, ensuring the sector remains on an upward trajectory.
Major Players: Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, The View Hospital, Primary Health Care Corporation
Factor of the Future: Precision Medicine
Qatar’s manufacturing sector is a vital component of its economic diversification strategy, heavily centered around petrochemicals, fertilizers, and steel production. Industries Qatar and Qatar Petrochemical Company dominate this space, leveraging the nation’s abundant natural gas resources. Recent investments focus on expanding production capacities and introducing sustainable practices to align with Qatar National Vision 2030. The government also supports growth in non-oil manufacturing, such as food processing and construction materials, to reduce dependency on hydrocarbons. Special Economic Zones like Ras Laffan Industrial City provide an enabling environment for manufacturers. Contributing approximately 9% to GDP, manufacturing plays a significant role in job creation and industrial innovation. The sector’s steady growth is a testament to Qatar’s commitment to becoming a regional industrial hub.
Major Players: Industries Qatar, Qatar Petrochemical Company, Qatar Steel, Qatar Fertiliser Company
Factor of the Future: Sustainable Industrial Practices
Real estate in Qatar is flourishing, driven by large-scale urban development projects like Lusail City, The Pearl-Qatar, and Msheireb Downtown Doha. Key players, including Barwa Real Estate and United Development Company, are transforming Qatar’s landscape with luxury housing, commercial properties, and retail spaces. The government’s investment in affordable housing projects further stimulates demand. Population growth, boosted by expatriate inflows and the thriving business environment, ensures consistent demand for residential and office spaces. Contributing around 4% to GDP, real estate is a pillar of economic diversification, attracting both local and foreign investors. As Qatar continues to position itself as a global destination for business and tourism, the real estate market remains on an upward trajectory.
Major Players: Barwa Real Estate, United Development Company, Ezdan Holding Group
Factor of the Future: Mixed-Use Developments
Qatar’s retail industry is expanding rapidly, driven by modern shopping malls, online retail platforms, and global brands entering the market. Iconic destinations like Doha Festival City and Mall of Qatar showcase the sector’s emphasis on luxury, entertainment, and consumer experience. Retailers like Al Meera and Carrefour cater to growing demand for diverse product offerings. The rise of e-commerce, accelerated by Qatar’s tech-savvy population and robust logistics network, further drives growth. With approximately 11% contribution to GDP, retail benefits from Qatar’s high disposable income, increased tourism, and growing middle class. The government’s initiatives to promote SME participation in the retail ecosystem ensure a dynamic and competitive market.
Major Players: Al Meera, Carrefour Qatar, LuLu Hypermarket
Factor of the Future: E-Commerce Expansion
Technology is at the forefront of Qatar’s modernization initiatives, with a focus on smart cities, AI, and digital governance. Ooredoo and Qatar Science & Technology Park lead innovation in telecommunications, research, and IT solutions. Qatar’s robust infrastructure supports advancements in fintech, cybersecurity, and IoT, aligning with the National Vision 2030 to create a knowledge-based economy. Government programs like TASMU Smart Qatar aim to enhance digital transformation across industries. When added to the telecommunications industry, technology in Qatar contributes approximately 2% to GDP. The tech sector also promotes entrepreneurship, with startup incubators and venture capital investments fostering growth. The sector’s upward trend underscores its strategic importance in driving economic diversification and innovation.
Major Players: Ooredoo, Qatar Science & Technology Park, MEEZA QSTP
Technology: AI-Powered Solutions
Telecommunications in Qatar is a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, fueled by companies like Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar. The country is among the global leaders in 5G network deployment, providing robust infrastructure for businesses and residents. Qatar’s digital transformation initiatives rely heavily on telecommunications, enabling sectors like e-commerce, education, and healthcare. The sector also facilitates international connectivity, supporting Qatar’s role as a regional technology hub. Alongside the technology industry, telecommunications contributes approximately 2% to GDP, telecommunications underpins the broader economy, enabling growth and innovation in other industries. Investments in submarine cables and fiber-optic networks ensure that the industry remains competitive on a global scale.
Major Players: Ooredoo, Vodafone Qatar, Qatar National Broadband Network
Factor of the Future: 5G and Beyond
Transportation in Qatar is integral to its strategic growth, featuring world-class infrastructure such as Hamad International Airport and the Doha Metro. Qatar Airways, a global aviation leader, drives international connectivity and tourism. Public transport initiatives by Mowasalat, including electric buses, promote sustainability and align with Qatar National Vision 2030. Major developments, such as the expansion of Hamad Port, enhance the country’s logistics capabilities, solidifying its position as a regional trade hub. Contributing around 4% to GDP, transportation supports urbanization, tourism, and economic diversification. Investments in smart mobility solutions ensure that the sector continues to grow and meet global standards.
Major Players: Qatar Airways, Mowasalat (Karwa), Hamad Port, Doha Metro
Factor of the Future: Autonomous Mobility