The World Bank Group has officially opened its first office in Doha, marking a new chapter in its partnership with Qatar and highlighting the country’s expanding role in global development and finance. The office will focus on development financing, private-sector engagement, and supporting countries facing economic fragility and conflict. It is hosted at the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) headquarters, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance.
At the inauguration, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the office reflects a deepening partnership built on shared goals. He emphasized Qatar’s potential to support growth in neighbouring countries while attracting private investment to emerging markets, driving jobs, prosperity, and long-term development.
A Hub for Regional Collaboration
The Doha office will act as a regional centre, bringing together Qatari institutions and the World Bank Group to coordinate development initiatives. Banga noted that discussions during his visit aimed to expand cooperation beyond government agencies to include financial institutions and development partners across Qatar.
This permanent presence is expected to strengthen coordination and enhance the World Bank Group’s engagement in the region.
Advancing Qatar’s National Vision
For Qatar, the new office represents both a symbolic and practical milestone. Minister of Finance H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari described it as a testament to the strong partnership between Qatar and the World Bank Group. He highlighted that the office will contribute to Qatar’s economy and national development goals, including capacity building and training for young Qataris.
The office integrates several branches of the World Bank Group, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), enabling closer collaboration on development projects, risk management, and private investment—key elements of Qatar’s development strategy.
Unlocking Investment in Fragile Economies
Alongside the office opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding to expand advisory services and explore innovative financing mechanisms for fragile and conflict-affected contexts.
Rwodah Ibrahim Al Naimi, Director of Investments at QFFD, explained that the partnership aims to increase private sector involvement where capital is limited. By combining QFFD funding with World Bank instruments like guarantees, the collaboration seeks to support small and medium-sized enterprises, generate jobs, and create sustainable investment opportunities in the most challenging markets.
