Latest news with #AliAlwaleedAl-Thani
Business Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Qatar dangles perks in bid to build a Wall Street of its own
[RIYADH] Officials in Doha are dangling perks to Wall Street firms as they seek to build the city into the next great Middle Eastern financial centre. Some financial firms have been offered monetary subsidies so they can retrofit offices across the city to fit their needs. Others have been told the government would pay some staffers' salaries if they were to expand in the city. 'Our approach has always been to work towards where we see a competitive advantage,' said Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, chief executive officer of Invest Qatar, which describes itself as a concierge for entrepreneurs and businesses interested in investing in the country. Unlike Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh – financial centres in their own right – Qatar is better known for its role as a careful mediator in tense geopolitical conflicts. But two years after the tiny Gulf country splashed out more than US$300 billion to host the FifaWorld Cup, Qatar's expecting a major influx of cash as the country expands its production of liquefied natural gas. Doha plans to use the US$524 billion Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) as one of the levers to drive its ambitions, according to sources familiar with the matter. The fund could start encouraging private equity and infrastructure funds to set up in the country using its leverage as an investor, the sources said. A representative for the QIA declined to comment. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up Investor meetings There are already signs that conversations are picking up in some quarters. 'I did meet with big investors – like even our own QIA, and the Brookfields, Blackstones,' Khalid Al-Obaidli, president of the country's Real Estate Regulatory Authority, said at this week's Qatar Economic Forum. 'All my questions were: What is your business plan? What makes you decide to invest?' 'So we can understand as a government,' he said, 'and make sure we do have the prerequisites for those investments'. To that end, Invest Qatar has lined up incentives to entice asset management, insurance, wealth management and financial technology players to Qatar. The programme, billed as the Lusail Financial Services Package, is part of a broader US$1 billion initiative and allows Doha to cover as much as 40 per cent of companies' local investment costs over the next five years, according to a statement. It's also encouraging firms to establish offices in city of Lusail, the main financial and business district. It's not just finance. The plan also targets technology, logistics and advanced manufacturing firms. To be sure, Doha still lags behind other centres in the region. The UAE hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi allow easier routes to long-term residencies and some expatriates prefer the lifestyle on offer in those cities. Many firms with a presence in the region might also be reluctant to add another office unless there's significant business coming in. 'The pie is getting bigger at such a fast pace,' Invest Qatar's Sheikh Ali said. 'Many of the projects are actually foreign companies that initially set up, say, in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and then decide to expand in Qatar.' There are early signs that indicate Doha's efforts have been working. Just this week, the emerging markets-focused fund manager Ashmore Group announced plans to open an office in Qatar, following in the footsteps of BlackRock's Global Infrastructure Partners. Unlike Saudi Arabia – which demanded that Wall Street firms obtain a regional headquarters license in the kingdom or it would kick them off state contracts – Qatar has sought to use a more friendly approach to luring these firms. 'The focus is on incentivising companies to set up,' Sheikh Ali said. 'We try to be competitive and help induce investment by taking some risk off the table.' The QIA has already emerged as a key plank to these efforts. The wealth fund last year started a so-called Fund of Funds programme that provides seed funding for venture capital firms in the hopes that they will invest that money locally. London-based Utopia Capital Management was one of the first to receive such backing and announced plans to open its Middle East headquarters in Doha in February. Firms such as B Capital – started by Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin and former Bain Capital investor Raj Ganguly – followed weeks later. The excitement about Doha's prospects was palpable at the Qatar Economic Forum. 'I have a friend who once told me that the World Cup was like an IPO for Qatar,' Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said at the event. 'And I believe this was – thanks to God – a very successful IPO. And it's been oversubscribed.' The development has not stopped in the aftermath of the World Cup. For years, Qatar has successfully bid for sporting events to come to its shores, which has helped draw thousands of fans. The country is now relying on a line-up of conferences and exhibitions to lure more families, medical tourists, and business travellers. 'We are building four Equinox Hotels in Saudi Arabia, one in Abu Dhabi, one in Dubai,' Jeff Blau, CEO of the real estate developer Related Cos said on stage at the conference this week. 'And in the green room, I think maybe we made a deal for Doha.' BLOOMBERG The government of the State of Qatar is the underwriter of the Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg.
Qatar Tribune
21-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Invest Qatar, Ardian, Silian unveil AI & Semiconductor collaboration
Tribune News Network Doha The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar), Ardian, a world-leading private investment house, and Silian Partners, a unique strategic and operational value creation firm specialised in the global semiconductor industry haveformed a strategic partnership with Ardian to launch Ardian Semiconductor, a pioneering semiconductor private equity platform . It wasannounced on Wednesday that a partnership has been formed to collaborate on AI and semiconductors. This initiative will contribute to drive digital innovation and to develop strategic technologies in Qatar. Invest Qatar, Ardian and Silian Partners will work together to attract companies in the AI and semiconductor technology ecosystems to explore opportunities and establish operations in Qatar. In line with these efforts, Silian Partners will establish an office in Qatar to bring significant semiconductor industry capabilities to the country. As part of this partnership, Invest Qatar will facilitate connections between Ardian Semiconductor's portfolio companies and local stakeholders, as well as provide aftercare services for current investors. The collaboration is poised to introduce various initiatives to support the long-term growth of the technology sector in Qatar such as joint seminars, workshops and conferences to facilitate knowledge sharing and networking. Invest Qatar will also work closely with Ardian and Silian Partners to organise exploratory fact-finding trips for related companies to learn more about Qatar's welcoming and supportive business environment and to experience the country's high quality of life. Announced during the Qatar Economic Forum in Doha, the MoU was signed by Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar; Jan Philipp Schmitz, Executive Vice President, Ardian; Paul Boudre, CEO, Co-Founder & Partner, Silian Partners. Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: 'This partnership with Ardian and Silian Partners exemplifies our commitment to attracting investment in enabling clusters such as IT & Digital in line with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy. By combining Qatar's world-class digital infrastructure and significant investments in RDI with Ardian's proven and successful private equity capabilities and Silian Partner's deep semiconductor industry experience and expertise, we are paving the way to further enhance Qatar's position as a global hub for innovation and piloting new technologies.' Jan Philipp Schmitz, Executive Vice President, Ardian said: 'I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all parties involved in the partnership between Invest Qatar, Ardian, and Silian Partners. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to fostering AI and semiconductor ecosystems in Qatar and the wider region. Ardian Semiconductor, our pioneering private equity platform, will serve as a catalyst for digital innovation and strategic technology development in the region. We are thrilled to see Silian Partners establish an office in Qatar, which will not only bring substantial semiconductor industry expertise to the country but also create new opportunities for growth and investment. This initiative aligns perfectly with our vision to drive forward cutting-edge technologies and solidify Qatar's position as a global hub for innovation. We are eager to explore the new avenues this partnership will open and look forward to a prosperous future together.' Paul Boudre, CEO, Co-Founder & Partner, and Thomas Pebay-Peyroula, Co-Founder & Partner, Silian Partners said: 'We are excited to announce that we will locate our global strategy team in Qatar. Our team in Doha will carry out high value-added semiconductor industry research and analysis, which is essential to underpin the investment strategy of the Ardian Semiconductor platform and support portfolio companies in their strategic positioning and growth. Having an on-the-ground presence will also accelerate our vision to participate in the emergence of a differentiated local semiconductor ecosystem, as well as further strengthening our long-term partnership with Qatar.'
Korea Herald
21-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Invest Qatar partners with Quantinuum to accelerate expansion and advance the region's quantum computing ecosystem
DOHA, Qatar, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Invest Qatar, the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar, has inked a strategic agreement with Quantinuum, the world leader in quantum computing and developer of the world's highest-performing quantum computer. The partnership aims to strengthen Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem by supporting Quantinuum's recently announced expansion into the region, which was highlighted last week by the President of the United States during his historic state visit to Qatar. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will provide tailored support services to Quantinuum, including access to key stakeholders, sector-specific insights and opportunities for collaboration with local innovation and research institutions. Invest Qatar will also promote initiatives that drive quantum computing adoption and raise awareness of Quantinuum's contributions to Qatar's tech landscape. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will support Quantinuum's expansion into the country to apply quantum technologies for the benefit of key sectors in Qatar, while enhancing local research and development (R&D) capabilities, to create high-skilled jobs and train the next generation quantum workforce in Qatar. This includes facilitating connections with key stakeholders, enabling collaboration in R&D, and aligning with national initiatives aimed at advancing quantum technologies. As part of the agreement, Quantinuum will play a central role in advancing Qatar's quantum capabilities by launching a range of targeted initiatives, including knowledge-sharing platforms, educational seminars and technical workshops delivered by Quantinuum's global experts. The partnership also envisions launching joint research projects with Qatari academic and research institutions, exploring opportunities for local integration of quantum technologies and facilitating access to Quantinuum's cutting-edge quantum computing infrastructure. Additionally, internship opportunities will be offered to students from Qatar-based universities, providing direct experience in real-world quantum computing applications. Commenting on the partnership, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said:"This partnership with Quantinuum reflects our continued commitment to positioning Qatar at the forefront of next-generation technologies. By combining global expertise with local ambition, we aim to cultivate a thriving quantum ecosystem that drives innovation, supports economic diversification and empowers future talent. We are pleased to work with Quantinuum to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing for Qatar and the wider region." Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO, Quantinuum, said:"Launching our presence in Qatar opens an exciting new chapter in a region ready to lead in quantum computing. Building on our recently announced expansion into the country through our joint venture with Al Rabban Capital, and our ongoing partnership with Hamad Bin Khalifa University, this collaboration with Invest Qatar reinforces our commitment to the growth of Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem. As part of the deepening strategic ties between the U.S. and Qatar, we're enabling direct access to our world-leading quantum hardware and software, creating value for academia and industry in Qatar while training the next generation of quantum developers and researchers to strengthen the region's position as a global hub for advanced technologies." About Invest Qatar The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) is responsible for overseeing investment promotion activities, aimed at attracting foreign direct investment to Qatar. Established in 2019, Invest Qatar's mission is to strengthen Qatar's position as an ideal investment destination, while facilitating investments that foster economic diversification and development. As the gateway to investment solutions, Invest Qatar connects investors to an integrated ecosystem of business and licensing platforms. The Agency partners with investors throughout their journey, from exploration and setup to expansion, ensuring their long-term growth by providing comprehensive insights into Qatar's business landscape, sector-specific market knowledge and tailored investment facilitation. @InvestQatar | #InvestQatar About Quantinuum Quantinuum is the world leader in quantum computing. The company's quantum systems deliver the highest performance across all industry benchmarks. Quantinuum's over 550 employees, including 370+ scientists and engineers, across the US, UK, Germany, and Japan, are driving the quantum computing revolution.
Qatar Tribune
20-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Invest Qatar partners with Quantinuum
Tribune News Network Doha Invest Qatar, the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar, has inked a strategic agreement with Quantinuum, the world leader in quantum computing and developer of the world's highest-performing quantum computer. The partnership aims to strengthen Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem by supporting Quantinuum's recently announced expansion into the region, which was highlighted last week by the President of the United States during his historic state visit to Qatar. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will provide tailored support services to Quantinuum, including access to key stakeholders, sector-specific insights, and opportunities for collaboration with local innovation and research institutions. Invest Qatar will also promote initiatives that drive quantum computing adoption and raise awareness of Quantinuum's contributions to Qatar's tech landscape. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will support Quantinuum's expansion into the country to apply quantum technologies for the benefit of key sectors in Qatar, while enhancing local research and development (R&D) capabilities, to create high-skilled jobs and train the next generation quantum workforce in Qatar. This includes facilitating connections with key stakeholders, enabling collaboration in R&D and aligning with national initiatives aimed at advancing quantum technologies. As part of the agreement, Quantinuum will play a central role in advancing Qatar's quantum capabilities by launching a range of targeted initiatives, including knowledge-sharing platforms, educational seminars and technical workshops delivered by Quantinuum's global experts. The partnership also envisions launching joint research projects with Qatari academic and research institutions, exploring opportunities for local integration of quantum technologies and facilitating access to Quantinuum's cutting-edge quantum computing infrastructure. Additionally, internship opportunities will be offered to students from Qatar-based universities, providing direct experience in real-world quantum computing applications. Commenting on the partnership, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: 'This partnership with Quantinuum reflects our continued commitment to positioning Qatar at the forefront of next-generation technologies. By combining global expertise with local ambition, we aim to cultivate a thriving quantum ecosystem that drives innovation, supports economic diversification and empowers future talent. We are pleased to work with Quantinuum to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing for Qatar and the wider region.' Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO, Quantinuum, said: 'Launching our presence in Qatar opens an exciting new chapter in a region ready to lead in quantum computing. Building on our recently announced expansion into the country through our joint venture with Al Rabban Capital, and our ongoing partnership with Hamad Bin Khalifa University, this collaboration with Invest Qatar reinforces our commitment to the growth of Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem. As part of the deepening strategic ties between the U.S. and Qatar, we're enabling direct access to our world-leading quantum hardware and software, creating value for academia and industry in Qatar while training the next generation of quantum developers and researchers to strengthen the region's position as a global hub for advanced technologies.'
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Invest Qatar partners with Quantinuum to accelerate expansion and advance the region's quantum computing ecosystem
DOHA, Qatar, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Invest Qatar, the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar, has inked a strategic agreement with Quantinuum, the world leader in quantum computing and developer of the world's highest-performing quantum computer. The partnership aims to strengthen Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem by supporting Quantinuum's recently announced expansion into the region, which was highlighted last week by the President of the United States during his historic state visit to Qatar. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will provide tailored support services to Quantinuum, including access to key stakeholders, sector-specific insights and opportunities for collaboration with local innovation and research institutions. Invest Qatar will also promote initiatives that drive quantum computing adoption and raise awareness of Quantinuum's contributions to Qatar's tech landscape. Through this partnership, Invest Qatar will support Quantinuum's expansion into the country to apply quantum technologies for the benefit of key sectors in Qatar, while enhancing local research and development (R&D) capabilities, to create high-skilled jobs and train the next generation quantum workforce in Qatar. This includes facilitating connections with key stakeholders, enabling collaboration in R&D, and aligning with national initiatives aimed at advancing quantum technologies. As part of the agreement, Quantinuum will play a central role in advancing Qatar's quantum capabilities by launching a range of targeted initiatives, including knowledge-sharing platforms, educational seminars and technical workshops delivered by Quantinuum's global experts. The partnership also envisions launching joint research projects with Qatari academic and research institutions, exploring opportunities for local integration of quantum technologies and facilitating access to Quantinuum's cutting-edge quantum computing infrastructure. Additionally, internship opportunities will be offered to students from Qatar-based universities, providing direct experience in real-world quantum computing applications. Commenting on the partnership, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: "This partnership with Quantinuum reflects our continued commitment to positioning Qatar at the forefront of next-generation technologies. By combining global expertise with local ambition, we aim to cultivate a thriving quantum ecosystem that drives innovation, supports economic diversification and empowers future talent. We are pleased to work with Quantinuum to unlock the transformative potential of quantum computing for Qatar and the wider region." Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President & CEO, Quantinuum, said: "Launching our presence in Qatar opens an exciting new chapter in a region ready to lead in quantum computing. Building on our recently announced expansion into the country through our joint venture with Al Rabban Capital, and our ongoing partnership with Hamad Bin Khalifa University, this collaboration with Invest Qatar reinforces our commitment to the growth of Qatar's quantum computing ecosystem. As part of the deepening strategic ties between the U.S. and Qatar, we're enabling direct access to our world-leading quantum hardware and software, creating value for academia and industry in Qatar while training the next generation of quantum developers and researchers to strengthen the region's position as a global hub for advanced technologies." About Invest Qatar The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (Invest Qatar) is responsible for overseeing investment promotion activities, aimed at attracting foreign direct investment to Qatar. Established in 2019, Invest Qatar's mission is to strengthen Qatar's position as an ideal investment destination, while facilitating investments that foster economic diversification and development. As the gateway to investment solutions, Invest Qatar connects investors to an integrated ecosystem of business and licensing platforms. The Agency partners with investors throughout their journey, from exploration and setup to expansion, ensuring their long-term growth by providing comprehensive insights into Qatar's business landscape, sector-specific market knowledge and tailored investment facilitation. For more information, please visit @InvestQatar | #InvestQatar About Quantinuum Quantinuum is the world leader in quantum computing. The company's quantum systems deliver the highest performance across all industry benchmarks. Quantinuum's over 550 employees, including 370+ scientists and engineers, across the US, UK, Germany, and Japan, are driving the quantum computing revolution. For more information, please visit SOURCE Quantinuum
