Qatar's residential market remains stable in 2024
While take-up and occupancy have increased in Lusail Marina and The Pearl, absorption in Lusail's other districts such as Fox Hills and Al Erkyah has been slower, with higher vacancy rates evident, Cushman & Wakefield noted in its Q4 2024 Real Estate Market Review.
The occupancy rates also remain high in many of central Doha's districts; however, the number of new master planned developments on Doha's southern outskirts ahead of the World Cup has resulted in higher vacancy rates in some of these developments, with attractive lease terms and rental incentives available to new tenants. Many of Doha's higher-quality villa compounds are now at full occupancy, with waiting lists increasingly common for compounds in areas such as Onaiza, Mesilla, Al Waab, Duhail etc.
Cityscape Qatar was held at the Doha Exhibition and Conference Centre in October last year where several new residential developments in Qatar were launched. Some of the notable projects to launch at last year's event included SLS Doha and The Groove Residence, by Qetaifan Projects, Crystal Residences on Gewan Island by UDC, and Barwa Hills in Fox Hills.
Cityscape 2024 was held in conjunction with the second Qatar Real Estate Forum, an event that brings together real estate experts and stakeholders from Qatar and around the world, to exchange ideas and explore future trajectories and opportunities in the Qatar Real Estate Market.
The event illustrates the government's determination to support Qatar's real estate market and attract investment from both Qatar and overseas. Central to the development of Qatar's real estate market is the establishment of the real estate regulator Aqarat, which is in the process of merging and developing real estate services and frameworks that had previously been shared between different government ministries.
The fourth quarter of last year also saw inauguration of the landmark Land of Legends project, which is to be developed by Qatari Diar and FTG Development in Simaisma. Land of Legends Qatar is set to become one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East with investment of $3bn.
Oxford Economics have kept their 2025 GDP growth forecast for Qatar unchanged at 2.1% and expects growth will more than double next year as the additional LNG capacity starts up.
The non-energy sector will remain the primary growth engine in the near term after expanding by an estimated 3.2% last year. The planned revamp of key laws governing bankruptcy, public-private partnerships, and commercial registration will likely help unlock stronger foreign direct investment inflows in support of non-energy expansion.
© Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
The Peninsula Newspaper
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tourism Breaking News
15 hours ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Big-ticket events set the stage for tourism growth in the Middle East
Post Views: 44 In the GCC alone, the event and exhibition market is expected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.94%. Panel hosted by TravTalk ME with San Jeet, CEO, DDP Publications moderating the session shared, following the global success of mega-events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and Expo 2020 Dubai, momentum is building across the region as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World Cup. Discussing the evolution and impact of these events, panellists including H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Sebastien Doussin, Senior Vice President – Global Travel Services & Destination Management. dnata and Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), shared fascinating insights at ATM 2025, where the events industry was under the spotlight. 'Big-ticket' events are playing a pivotal role in driving international tourism and accelerating economic growth, according to experts speaking recently at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. The panel addressed how big-ticket events – so-called for their high value, cost and impact – have demonstrated their ability to attract millions of international visitors, boost hotel occupancy, stimulate infrastructure growth and generate long-term brand positioning for host destinations. Highlighting the importance of understanding the long-term strategic value of big-ticket events beyond immediate sales, H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa commented: 'Big-ticket events provide a destination with an opportunity to establish brand positioning and exposure in a competitive global environment. These events play a vital role in supporting broader government objectives, but it is essential to invest in the right product for your destination.' Doussin reaffirmed the importance of large-scale events in destination positioning, referencing the growth of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the surge of international golfing tournaments throughout the UAE and the launch of NBA events in the capital. Commenting on the impact of technology on events, Doussin said: 'Technology has already changed big-ticket events, especially in terms of distribution and customer experience. All of the ticketing for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar was completely digital through the official event app, offering flexibility and ease of use. Ultimately, technology enables an event to become more seamless, easier and enjoyable.' Meanwhile, Hamid urged the industry to broaden the definition of big-ticket events to include exhibitions, conferences and cultural performances. He referenced Bangkok's weekly concerts, which are mainly K-pop driven, as examples of how live entertainment extends tourist stays. Supporting the panel's observations, the ATM Travel Trends report highlights the rising appeal of live entertainment and sports in influencing travel decisions. Leisure events were outlined as the top opportunity for tourism growth among 50% of industry experts, as consumer demand for in-person and cultural experiences has increased significantly in recent years. The trend of combining traditional leisure and business travel, or 'bleisure', has also accelerated as increased remote working and flexible working visas have enabled more people to live and work overseas. Building on this, business travellers are often extending their stays in destinations, creating a new opportunity in this rapidly expanding sector. The report also highlighted that business events (MICE) are emerging as a significant driver of tourism growth across the Middle East, complementing the region's thriving leisure sector. Global business travel reached a record US$1.4 trillion in 2024 and is projected to rise to US$2 trillion by 2030. The Middle East is well-positioned to capture a growing share of this lucrative market, increasing from approximately 2.5% in 2024 to over 3% by the end of the decade, supported by world-class infrastructure, a strategic location, and an expanding schedule of high-profile events. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, concluded: 'As big-ticket events continue to gain global prominence, their role in shaping the future of tourism, driving economic diversification and enhancing international reputation has never been more evident. The Middle East, with its strategic vision, world-class infrastructure and focus on innovation, is well-positioned to lead the next era of global event tourism.' Building on the success of its inaugural edition, IBTM@ATM will return to ATM 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 4-7 May 2026, with a dedicated zone within Hall 3, highlighting the show's strategic focus on the global business events sector. Designed to facilitate high-value connections, the zone allows business event suppliers to showcase, promote their destinations and services, and engage with pre-qualified international event planners, Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs), and associations through an exclusive hosted buyer programme.
Campaign ME
06-08-2025
- Campaign ME
How the Middle East is positioning itself as a global sports leader
The Middle East is becoming a sports powerhouse. Most recently, one of its leading lights took centre stage when Al-Hilal knocked Manchester City out of the Club World Cup to reach the tournament's first-ever quarter finals. As the Middle East steers away from being an economy dependent on oil, it is actively repositioning itself as a leader in sports globally by becoming a hub for major sporting events. For instance, KSA has invested £5bn ($6.6bn) in sports since 2021 as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, placing sport at the heart of this transformation and as an engine of economic dynamism. The Kingdom is actively converting oil wealth into cultural capital: investing in football, live events, leisure, and tourism infrastructure. This isn't just about sport – it's about shaping global connection narratives and increasing Saudi Arabia's relevance on the world stage. Building Middle East sporting event brands When it comes to hosting sporting events, the Middle East has looked to position itself as a destination that other countries can't rival. It focuses on building a luxury image around its events compared with sports events in other regions. Some of this was evident at the FIFA men's World Cup in 2022 in Qatar and no doubt will be when Saudi Arabia hosts the 2034 World Cup. The region has also hosted F1 Grands Prix since 2004 along with high-profile boxing events and golf tournaments. The sense of 'premium-ness' created around ME's sporting events comes in part from its extensive infrastructure developments, which are capturing the imagination of fans around the world. The region is also expanding its sporting events and entertainment to boost its destination travel economy. For instance, a football-inspired theme park. Real Madrid World was opened in 2024, to extend its football association and visitor attractions. But it is F1 that epitomises ME's lavish marketing style. Although the penultimate rounds of the championships in Qatar and Abu Dhabi may take place elsewhere this year due to conflict in the Middle East, in previous years, the Middle East has put on a grand show. The circuit on Yas Island has luxury suites, an indoor water park, a golf course, and a Ferrari theme park. The Yas Marina Circuit for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2024 also included high-profile entertainment with live music from Eminem, Muse, and Peggy Gou among others. Al Hilal building a football club as a cultural brand Building a strong home-grown sports brand – and not just relying on pre-existing global tournaments including ME in their fixtures—is key to creating global interest and local support. The Al Hilal rebrand reimagined its positioning and expression, evolving from a successful club into a symbol of national pride and cultural ambition. The message of the rebrand shows that this club is not only for Saudi Arabia, but for the world and the future. With a revitalised brand, ambitious plans (it's looking to poach Newcastle's Alexander Isak) and its recent statement in performance at the FIFA Club World Cup, Al Hilal is earning attention and respect, not through advertising, but through action. It understands the power of big-name team additions. On-pitch signings like Neymar and Mitrović act as distribution engines. They extend content reach, boosts international interest, and helps attract younger fans across platforms. In a similar example, when Ronaldo joined Al Nassr, the club's Instagram following grew from 850K to more than 10m in less than 30 days. The future of sports in the Middle East The Middle East will continue to position itself as a sporting powerhouse thanks to Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 FIFA men's World Cup. The World Cup will be played in 15 stadiums across five cities in the Middle East, including its one-of-a-kind stadium, which will be 350 metres above ground level and will be accessible only by lifts. Saudi Arabia is also the long-term partner of WWE, which was put in place in 2018 to help WWE grow its presence in the Middle East and grow Saudi's connections to sporting events. It is already confirmed that the Kingdom will host WWE's inaugural international Royal Rumble in January 2026. The themes emerging from the Middle East The Middle East is rebranding as a region, and we are seeing how a nation can be repositioned in part through its sport and entertainment ecosystem. Sports tourism, infrastructure and entertainment are no longer separate strategies – they are all part of a cohesive brand system. The power of Vision 2030 is a cohesive approach that everyone can get behind. It focuses investment, attention and creativity. It is central to the Middle East to build a brand to show the world that they must reappraise this region. The Middle East is focusing on fan-centric design. Clubs like Al Hilal are investing in the foundations and emotions of fandom, not just the players or the results. Brand equity is now about experience, meaning and share-ability. Sport is a conduit for cultural confidence through Saudi Arabia. The country is exporting its own voice proudly and distinctively. By Hector Saracho, Executive Director, Head of Strategy at Interbrand.
Arabian Post
01-08-2025
- Arabian Post
Life Sciences on the Chinese Mainland – Vital signs: Diagnosing trends in the life sciences real estate market on the Chinese mainland
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2025 –Cushman & Wakefield, a leading global real estate services firm, today released itsreport. It is based on in-depth interview surveys we conducted on professionals active in the life sciences sector on the Chinese mainland. The life sciences industry on the Chinese mainland is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by progressive policies, groundbreaking innovations, the emergence of influential life sciences companies, and strategic regional development. This report delves into the latest trends shaping the sector. Policy Landscape – National and Local Catalysts Reforms enacted in 2024-2025 have significantly accelerated sector development. Nationally, China relaxed restrictions on foreign investment in gene and cell therapy and allowed the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in key cities. Regulatory incentives – such as data protection and marketing exclusivity – have improved market access for innovative drugs. Locally, cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Suzhou are rolling out targeted subsidies, fast-track approvals, and ecosystem-building programmes that directly benefit biotech development. ADVERTISEMENT Recent national policy initiatives on the Chinese mainland Types of policies Detail information Opening to Foreign Investment In 2024, China eased restrictions on foreign investments in stem cell research, gene therapy, and genetic diagnostics within Free Trade Zones (FTZs) like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, and Hainan. Regulatory Incentives The State Council's Circular No. 53 introduced measures such as regulatory data protection and marketing exclusivity for select pharmaceutical products, including orphan and paediatric drugs. Wholly Foreign-Owned Hospitals China now permits the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, enhancing healthcare services and encouraging foreign investment. Source: Cushman & Wakefield Research Industry Innovation and Company Growth Chinese life sciences companies are moving beyond generic drug manufacturing toward innovative therapies. Firms like Akeso, BeiGene, Gracell, and Legend Biotech are now global players, leading in CAR-T, bispecific antibodies, and AI-assisted R&D. These companies are not only commercialising cutting-edge treatments but also attracting international investment and licensing agreements, reinforcing the Chinese mainland's global relevance in life sciences. Real Estate Development and Regional Hubs ADVERTISEMENT Innovation hubs such as Suzhou BioBAY, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park (Shanghai), and the Bioisland Innovation Centre (Guangdong) are central to regional clustering. These hubs offer end-to-end support, including shared labs, venture capital access, GMP-compliant facilities, and proximity to academic and clinical networks. The rise of second-tier innovation cities like Chengdu and Ningbo further expands growth corridors. The 'R&D + Manufacturing + Service' ecosystem Source: Cushman & Wakefield Research Landlord Perspectives – Evolving Real Estate Models Real estate developers and landlords are adapting to sector-specific requirements through asset-light models, flexible leasing, and high-specification lab and production space. Tier-1 cities face saturation, but central and western regions exhibit healthy demand. Developers are incorporating advanced sustainability and compliance features to meet growing regulatory and ESG expectations, particularly in GMP and cleanroom environments. Digitalisation, environmental policies, and differentiated tenant strategies are shaping performance. Operators now focus on integrated ecosystems with platforms that link tenants to R&D services, policy benefits, and technology partners. Occupier Perspectives – Growth, Innovation, and Challenges Life sciences occupiers are navigating regulatory reform, rising compliance demands, and intensified market competition. Many are localising production and R&D, leveraging regional subsidies, and investing in AI-powered innovation platforms. Occupiers seek flexibility, proximity to talent and infrastructure, and co-located R&D and manufacturing to support accelerated innovation and operational agility. In real estate, demand is strongest for GMP-certified labs, modular production facilities, and shared innovation platforms. Occupiers emphasise location advantages, sustainability certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL), and integration into clusters that enable faster time-to-market. Tony Su, Managing Director, National Head of Industrial & Logistics Property Services, China, said, 'Life sciences business parks on the Chinese mainland demonstrated clear regional differentiation, highlighting opportunities for strategic positioning. While Tier-1 cities saw more moderate performance due to broader macroeconomic factors and abundant supply, core cities in central and western regions recorded healthy occupancy rates, underpinned by strong industrial clustering and increasingly sophisticated ecosystems – contributing to steady growth in asset value.' Johnathan Wei, President, Project & Occupier Services, China, said, 'Several interviewed life sciences companies on the Chinese mainland achieved revenue growth supported by innovative products and favourable policy tailwinds. While overall growth remained modest for many, a select group reported strong performance, highlighting opportunities for differentiation'. Andrew Chan, Managing Director, Head of Valuation & Advisory Services, Greater China, said,' Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, growth opportunities lie in AI-driven drug discovery, personalised medicine, advanced therapeutics (CGT, RNA), and green-certified facilities. Government policies continue to support innovation through fast-track approvals, rare disease funding, and subsidies aligned with dual-carbon and ESG goals'. Shaun Brodie, Head of Research Content, Greater China, 'Life sciences real estate is shifting from generic parks to specialised, digitally enabled campuses with high compliance and flexibility. Investment strategies increasingly emphasise long-term partnerships, collaborative operating models, and digital infrastructure. Both landlords and occupiers express cautious optimism, with strategic differentiation and regional targeting seen as keys to unlocking future value'. Please click here to download the full report. Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Cushman & Wakefield Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit or follow us on LinkedIn (
