The Qatar Financial Center concluded the first half of 2026 with an increase of 37% in the number of registered companies compared to the same period in 2025, which reflects the solidity of its strategy and the attractiveness of the Qatari business environment for investors and entrepreneurs alike.
The center said in a statement today that 1,135 companies joined its platform in the first half of the year, bringing the total number of registered companies by the end of June 2026 to 4,700 companies, with the technology and innovation sector topping the list of the most growing sectors with 544 companies registered, then the media and entertainment sector with 173 companies, the advisory and professional services sector with 166 companies, the wealth management sector with 84 companies, and the financial technology sector with 65. Company.
The Qatar Financial Center indicated that the strong investor demand for these sectors reflects the breadth of the investment options available on the centre’s platform, and its attractiveness to companies operating in the finance, innovation and advisory services sectors.
He explained that the QFC’s participation in the Qatar Web Summit 2026 contributed to supporting this growth, as the center received about 2,300 new license applications, an increase of 44% compared to the previous year. The simplified registration procedures and incentives provided by the Center to companies, including exemption from license application fees and annual renewal fees during the first three years, have also enhanced the Center’s attractiveness to investors and companies wishing to establish their businesses in Qatar.
The Center also continued to expand the scope of the financial services sector during the first half of this year, by registering the Salwa Real Estate Investment Fund as the first collective real estate investment fund in Qatar, allowing investors the opportunity to own real estate assets with investment returns in a flexible and effective manner. This step represents a qualitative addition to the list of investment solutions and services provided by the center.
Regionally, the Qatar Financial Center has strengthened its cooperation with leading regulatory bodies such as the Abu Dhabi Global Market and the Dubai International Financial Center through agreements to enhance mutual recognition of the adequacy of data protection systems. This cooperation reflects the Centre’s commitment to providing an advanced framework for data protection in accordance with approved standards, and facilitating the transfer of data across borders for companies operating in the region.
The first half of the year also witnessed milestones in the Qatar Financial Centre’s journey, represented by its move to the new headquarters in Lusail. Celebrating the twentieth anniversary of the center’s founding, and revealing its visual identity and new slogan, “Growing with Confidence,” in a step that reflects the development of its path and its ambitions for the next stage.
Mr. Mansour Rashid Al Khater, CEO of the Qatar Financial Centre, said: “Over the past years, the Center has established a pioneering platform that enjoys the trust of companies that view it today as a reliable partner for establishing and developing businesses. We will continue to build on this trust, expand our services and investment options, and support the growth of our partners, as we continue our progress towards consolidating our position as a regional center incubating innovation and long-term partnerships.”
The Center has continued its role as an active contributor to the economic development of the State of Qatar by expanding its strategic partnerships and enhancing its cooperation with stakeholders, as it hosted 12 events that attracted about 1,500 participants, and contributed to enhancing constructive dialogue and providing an effective platform for communication and cooperation. The center also had an active presence in 15 other events with the aim of strengthening its position as a competitive destination for business and investment. In addition, the Center signed 10 memorandums of understanding with entities and bodies inside and outside Qatar, as part of its efforts to expand its strategic partnerships, support the growth of its main sectors, facilitate cross-border investments, and contribute to achieving national economic development goals.
The Qatar Financial Center was established to operate within the country, as it provides a distinguished business platform for companies wishing to establish and carry out their activities in Qatar or the region in general. It also has a special legal and regulatory framework, a tax system, and a well-established business environment that allows up to 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of profits, and a corporate tax at a competitive rate of 10% on profits from local sources.