A personal perspective: how Qatar is shaping its private sector for the future

This morning I read this new article on Qatar’s support for initiatives that enhance the Arab private sector, and I linked it to another recent news piece on job nationalization. Together, these developments provide a compelling view of Qatar’s progressive vision for the future. Having lived and worked here for two years now, I’ve had the chance to witness firsthand how the country is shaping its future—not just through bold initiatives, but in the quieter, day-to-day ways that change starts to take hold.

The first article by The Peninsula outlines Qatar’s commitment to boosting regional cooperation and investment in the private sector. It’s a strategic move, no doubt, but what I find most interesting is how this isn’t just about grand plans; it’s about creating an environment where businesses, including small to medium-sized enterprises, can thrive. In my conversations with local business owners and international colleagues, I’ve seen a growing confidence in what this collaboration can achieve, and it feels like we’re all part of something much bigger than just our individual ventures.

The second piece by Qatar News Agency, on the nationalization of jobs in the private sector, paints another layer of this picture. The introduction of Law No. 12 of 2024 is designed to encourage companies to employ more Qatari nationals, reducing dependence on foreign labor. Now, as an expat working in a foreign market, you might think this would create some uncertainty or at least some impact for international businesses. But on the ground, what I’m seeing is a different reality. There’s a sense that, rather than replacing expat talent, the law encourages a balance—bringing local talent into the fold while keeping the expertise of experienced internationals like myself.

Together, these two policies reflect Qatar’s thoughtful approach to development. It’s not a rush to hit targets or a blanket change across the board. Instead, it looks more like a careful progression towards a future that feels more integrated and locally driven. And as someone who has been observing this transformation up close, I can tell you it’s a fascinating process to watch.

For a company like mine, which has been doing business with Qatar for several years but is now looking to expand locally, the implications are significant. The focus on building regional partnerships is something we can definitely leverage, but it’s the nationalization drive that’s particularly interesting. It pushes us to think differently about how we engage with the local workforce. This might mean investing more in training, adjusting our recruitment processes, or even rethinking how we structure some of our projects.

As an expat who’s had the privilege of working here for almost a couple of years, I can say that being part of this journey is not only rewarding professionally but also personally. Qatar’s evolution isn’t something you just read about in the news—it’s happening in the conversations we have, and the people we meet.