The World Bank Group has inaugurated its first office in Doha, marking a new chapter in its collaboration with Qatar and reinforcing the country’s expanding role in global development and finance.
The office, officially opened on Sunday, will act as a regional hub for partnerships between the World Bank Group and Qatari institutions. Its main focus will be on development financing, mobilising private-sector investment, and supporting countries facing fragility and conflict. The office is located at the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) headquarters, in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance.
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga highlighted the significance of the move, noting that it reflects a growing partnership based on shared priorities. He emphasized Qatar’s role in promoting growth in neighbouring countries while encouraging private capital to flow into emerging markets, creating jobs and fostering prosperity.
A Hub for Regional Cooperation
The Doha office will serve as a centre for closer coordination between the World Bank Group and Qatari partners. Banga noted that his discussions during the visit included not only government bodies but also financial institutions and other development partners across Qatar.
By establishing a permanent presence in Doha, the World Bank Group aims to strengthen its regional engagement and better support development initiatives across the Middle East.
Supporting Qatar’s Vision for Growth
For Qatar, the office represents both a symbolic and practical milestone. Minister of Finance H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari described the launch as a testament to the long-standing relationship between the country and the World Bank Group. He said the office would contribute to Qatar’s economy and the Qatar National Vision, offering capacity-building opportunities and training for young Qataris.
The office brings together multiple arms of the World Bank Group, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), enabling coordinated efforts on investment, risk mitigation, and development projects.
Mobilising Investment for Fragile Economies
Alongside the office opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding to expand advisory services and explore new financing solutions, especially for fragile and conflict-affected countries.
Rwodah Ibrahim Al Naimi, Director of Investments at QFFD, explained that the partnership is designed to encourage private sector participation in challenging markets. By combining QFFD’s public funding with World Bank tools such as guarantees, the collaboration aims to create sustainable investment opportunities, support small and medium enterprises, and generate jobs in regions where capital is scarce.
