The World Bank Group has launched its first office in Doha, ushering in a new stage in its relationship with Qatar and strengthening cooperation on development finance, private investment and support for fragile economies across the region.
The office was officially inaugurated on Sunday and reflects the deepening partnership between the World Bank Group and Qatar, as well as the country’s growing role in global development and financial cooperation. Based at the headquarters of the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and operating in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, the Doha office is designed to act as a regional centre for collaboration.
Strengthening a Strategic Partnership
Speaking at the opening ceremony, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the decision to establish a presence in Doha was rooted in shared priorities and long-term goals. He stressed the importance of building a stronger partnership with Qatar, both to support growth in neighbouring countries and to encourage greater flows of private capital into emerging markets.
Banga noted that discussions during his visit extended beyond government cooperation to include engagement with financial institutions and development partners across Qatar, reflecting a broader approach to development and investment.
A Hub for Regional Cooperation
Qatari officials described the opening of the office as a significant milestone. Minister of Finance H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari said it marked an important moment in a long-standing relationship, adding that the new office is expected to contribute meaningfully to Qatar’s economy and national development ambitions.
He highlighted the potential benefits in areas such as capacity building, skills development and training opportunities for young Qataris, aligning the World Bank Group’s presence with Qatar National Vision objectives.
The office brings together several arms 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, investment facilitation and risk mitigation.
Unlocking Investment in Fragile Economies
The multi-institutional structure of the Doha office is central to its mission, according to QFFD officials. Director of Investments Rwodah Ibrahim Al Naimi said the presence of IFC, MIGA and other partners under one roof enables deeper cooperation at both national and international levels.
Alongside the office opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing advisory services and exploring new financing tools, particularly for fragile and conflict-affected countries. Al Naimi explained that the collaboration seeks to attract private sector participation in markets where capital is scarce by combining public funding with World Bank instruments such as guarantees.
The approach, she said, is intended to support sustainable investment, strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises and create jobs in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
