The Qatar Financial Centre reported 57% year-on-year growth in the first quarter of 2026, licensing more than 800 new firms between January and March, and linked the performance to continued business momentum in Qatar’s economic and regulatory environment. The update noted that Fitch Ratings reaffirmed Qatar’s ‘AA’ sovereign credit rating with a stable outlook in March. It also highlighted Doha’s improved standing in Global Financial Centres Index 39, rising 14 places to rank third in the Middle East and North Africa region, with a four-point increase in its score. QFC’s stated strategic priorities include attracting wealth, developing the local financial services sector, supporting diversification, and maintaining uninterrupted delivery of its full range of services. QFC also referenced a pipeline of initiatives intended to build on the first-quarter results in the quarters ahead.
Qatar Financial Centre 2026-04-08
Qatar Financial Centre reports 57% year-on-year growth in Q1 2026 and licenses over 800 new firms
The Qatar Financial Centre reported 57% year-on-year growth in Q1 2026, licensing over 800 new firms and citing strong economic and regulatory momentum. The update highlighted Fitch’s reaffirmation of Qatar’s ‘AA’ sovereign rating with a stable outlook and Doha’s 14-place rise in the Global Financial Centres Index 39 to rank third in MENA. QFC’s priorities include attracting wealth, developing financial services, supporting diversification, and maintaining uninterrupted services, backed by initiatives to build on Q1 results.