The World Bank Group has opened its first office in Doha, signaling a new chapter in its partnership with Qatar and highlighting the country’s growing role in international development and finance.
The office was officially inaugurated on Sunday and is expected to strengthen cooperation between the World Bank Group and Qatari institutions, particularly in development funding, private investment and support for countries affected by fragility and conflict. It is housed at the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) headquarters, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.
At the opening ceremony, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the move reflects a stronger relationship built on shared priorities. He noted that Qatar has an important role to play in supporting growth in neighbouring countries, while also helping attract private capital into emerging markets to create jobs and boost prosperity.
A New Regional Hub in Doha
The Doha office will serve as a regional centre for collaboration, bringing together the World Bank Group and Qatari partners to work more closely on development initiatives across the region. Banga said discussions during his visit focused on expanding cooperation not only with government bodies, but also with financial institutions and development partners throughout Qatar.
The permanent presence in Doha is expected to improve coordination and deepen engagement on regional development challenges.
A Milestone for Qatar’s Development Vision
For Qatar, the opening of the office carries both symbolic and practical importance. Minister of Finance H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari described it as a milestone in a long-standing partnership, saying it reflects how far cooperation between Qatar and the World Bank Group has progressed.
He added that the office would contribute to Qatar’s economy and national development goals, including capacity building and training opportunities for young Qataris in line with Qatar National Vision.
Unlocking Investment in Fragile Economies
The new office brings together several branches of the World Bank Group, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), allowing for closer coordination on development projects, risk management and private investment.
Alongside the opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening advisory services and exploring new financing approaches, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected countries. QFFD officials said the partnership focuses on encouraging private sector involvement in challenging environments by combining public funding with World Bank tools such as guarantees.
The collaboration aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises, create jobs and promote more sustainable economic growth in regions where access to capital remains limited.
