In cooperation with the German Mittelstand GCC Office, Der Divan – The Arab Cultural Centre organised a panel discussion on mutual investment opportunities between Qatar and Germany on 9 April 2025 as part of the ‘Future Day’ of the German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (BVMW).
The panel discussion, moderated by journalist Anne Seubert, was attended by H.E. Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed, Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He emphasised that Qatar is very interested in expanding cooperation with Germany in the areas of economy, trade and investment, and pointed out the important role of SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) in the Qatari economy, which account for 98% of the country’s private companies, most of which are located in the non-hydrocarbon sector. He added that these companies generate 10% of Qatar’s GDP and provide 15% of jobs.
‘Qatar attaches great importance to this sector as part of its National Vision 2030 and its third development strategy and is working to create a favourable environment for it by modernising regulations, developing and diversifying the business environment and offering incentives to investors,’ he said.
His Excellency the Minister of State for Foreign Trade invited German businesspeople to explore investment opportunities in Qatar, particularly in the infrastructure and technology sectors. He emphasised that Qatar is an ideal destination for investors looking for new opportunities.
Mohammed Al Mulla, Head of Investor Relations at Invest Qatar, pointed out that Qatar’s strategic location as a gateway to global markets, low energy prices, competitive tax system and advanced digital infrastructure make the country an attractive destination for companies looking to expand their business.
Bader Al-Madhadi, Associate Director in Investment Sectors at the Qatar Free Zone (QFZ), explained the services that free zones offer global companies by providing a flexible platform that enables them to take advantage of Qatar’s growth opportunities and explore the latest technological solutions.
Mohammed Jassim Al-Kuwari, Senior Associate at Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), emphasised the centre’s commitment to supporting investors and highlighted the legal and regulatory services it offers to foreign companies looking to invest in Qatar.
Ali Sultan Alkuwari, Senior Manager of Export Development at Qatar Development Bank (QDB), outlined QDB’s strategy to promote non-oil exports and diversify Qatar’s economy in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030.
Ms Al-Dana Al-Mohannadi, Senior Programme Specialist at the Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council (QRDIC), gave a comprehensive presentation on the investment opportunities and exceptional advantages Qatar offers, supported by the country’s advanced infrastructure, to attract companies to invest and set up businesses in Qatar.
On the following day, 10 April, the delegation concluded its stay in Berlin with a luncheon at the Divan.
