Latest news with #QatarDevelopmentBank
ILoveQatar.net
15-07-2025
- Business
- ILoveQatar.net
Qatar Development Bank opens 2025 SME Excellence List applications to recognize top businesses
Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has officially launched the application process for the 2025 SME Excellence List, a national initiative celebrating the country's most successful and high-performing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The deadline to apply is July 31, 2025, and participation is completely free. The SME Excellence List is designed to identify and honour companies that have demonstrated strong performance, rapid growth, and sustainable business models that positively contribute to Qatar's economic development. The initiative is in line with QDB's broader mission to build a robust and dynamic entrepreneurship ecosystem in the country. What is the SME Excellence List? The Excellence List serves as a platform to showcase the achievements of SMEs that have distinguished themselves in their respective industries. It aims to: Highlight the best-performing SMEs in Qatar based on specific eligibility and assessment criteria. Foster a culture of excellence and innovation among local businesses. Motivate entrepreneurs and create a vibrant, competitive business environment. Encourage the adoption of global best practices within the SME sector. Key benefits of participation SMEs that make it to the list gain national recognition, potential exposure to investors and partners, and credibility within the local and international business community. The list is also an effective tool for policymakers and stakeholders to identify and support promising businesses that can drive sustainable growth in the Qatari economy. How to apply Interested businesses must submit the following mandatory documents: Copy of Qatari ID Commercial Registration Establishment Registration Card Audited Financial Statements for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024 Optional documents that may support the application include: ID card of the authorised signatory Trade license Regulatory permit from the municipality Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry membership number Industrial registration Company presentation and any other supporting documents Proof of number of employees (issued by the General Directorate of Passports, Ministry of Interior) Applications will be reviewed based on set evaluation criteria, with emphasis on financial performance, business model sustainability, innovation, and impact on the local economy. For more details and to apply, visit the Qatar Development Bank website or contact their SME support team. Click here
Qatar Tribune
11-07-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar Exports strengthens presence of Qatari companies in Saudi market
Doha The Qatar Exports, affiliated with Qatar Development Bank (QDB), hosted its first high-level official roundtable event in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen the presence of Qatari companies in the Saudi market and foster cooperation between Qatari exporters and Saudi investors and stakeholders across various sectors. The event brought together ten active Qatari companies from the construction and contracting sectors, alongside a range of experts, key stakeholders, and leading Saudi developers, including Diriyah Company, Soudah Development, and Red Sea Global. Discussions focused on exploring avenues of collaboration and gaining deeper insight into the Saudi market to help pave the way for Qatari companies seeking to enter the Kingdom and contribute to new development projects. This roundtable marks the first in a planned series of four similar discussions aimed at expanding Qatar's business footprint in Saudi Arabia. It offered Qatari companies a valuable opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Saudi local market and to showcase their advanced capabilities and track record in executing large-scale projects with efficiency and high quality. The initiative aligns with Qatar Exports' mission to support the regional and international expansion of Qatari exporters and the private sector through integrated financial and advisory services provided by QDB. These services include the Buyer's Credit Program, detailed market research and opportunity reports, direct meetings and bilateral sessions with partners in priority markets, and training programs designed to equip exporters with the skills needed to grow and compete effectively. Vice President of Enterprise Development at QDB and Executive Director of Qatar Exports Khalid bin Abdulla Al Mana, emphasized the importance of the event, describing it as a critical stepping stone toward hosting more dynamic and interactive engagements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Al Mana added that the goal of these discussions is to better understand the needs of key developers and enable the Qatari private sector to position itself as a reliable partner capable of delivering high-quality projects in the Kingdom. He affirmed that QDB and Qatar Exports remain fully committed to supporting Qatari exporters across all sectors, providing the necessary tools and services to strengthen their presence in strategic markets, thereby contributing directly to Qatar's broader national economic diversification strategy. This event marks a significant step toward deepening trade and investment ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. It also reflects the determination of Qatari companies and their readiness to contribute to the ambitious development efforts currently underway in the Kingdom. Qatar Exports previously led Qatar's participation in the Saudi Mega Projects 2025 Summit, reinforcing the state's strategic focus on expanding into promising regional markets and promoting national companies and their offerings abroad.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Commercial Bank, QDB sign co-operation agreement to support SMEs in Qatar
Qatar - The agreement aims to enhance the banking and advisory ecosystem available to local businesses by combining the strengths and expertise of both institutions. As part of this initiative, the two entities will jointly offer a suite of value-added services tailored to SMEs, including advisory support in financial planning, marketing, succession planning, feasibility studies, restructuring, and risk management. Commercial Bank, a leader in innovative digital banking solutions, has entered into a strategic co-operation agreement with Qatar Development Bank (QDB) to empower and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Qatar. The agreement aims to enhance the banking and advisory ecosystem available to local businesses by combining the strengths and expertise of both institutions. As part of this initiative, the two entities will jointly offer a suite of value-added services tailored to SMEs, including advisory support in financial planning, marketing, succession planning, feasibility studies, restructuring, and risk management. Additionally, a jointly agreed calendar of workshops will be held throughout the year at either Commercial Bank's or Qatar Development Bank's premises, further supporting SME development and growth. Commenting on the collaboration, Fahad Badar, Executive General Manager and Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer of Commercial Bank, said: 'This collaboration with QDB reflects our shared vision to cultivate a thriving SME ecosystem in Qatar. Through comprehensive advisory services and knowledge-sharing sessions, we are not only investing in the future of businesses but contributing meaningfully to the development goals of Qatar's 2030 National Vision.' Dr Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director, SME Development at Qatar Development Bank (QDB), emphasised the significance of the agreement, stating: 'Through this collaboration with our partners at Commercial Bank, we aim to harness our collective expertise to deliver greater impact in entrepreneurship, particularly in supporting SMEs, which form a cornerstone of Qatar's economic development. This agreement represents a new step toward achieving our strategy to enhance and develop the local enterprises, in alignment with the Third National Development Strategy of the State of Qatar (2024–2030).' © Gulf Times Newspaper 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Qatar Tribune
07-07-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Commercial Bank signs agreement with QDB to empower SMEs in Qatar
Tribune News Network Doha In a significant move aimed at strengthening Qatar's small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, Commercial Bank has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Qatar Development Bank (QDB) to deliver comprehensive support forlocal businesses. Commercial Bank, known for its leadership in innovative digital banking solutions, will work closely with QDB to enhance the financial and advisory ecosystem available to SMEs across the country. The collaboration is designed to empower entrepreneurs by leveraging the combined resources, expertise, and networks ofboth institutions. As part of this initiative, SMEs in Qatar will benefit from a wide array of value-added services, including advisory support in areas such as financial planning, marketing, succession planning, feasibility studies, restructuring, and risk management. The partnership also includes a jointly developed calendar of workshops to be conducted throughout the year at either Commercial Bank or QDB premises, offering hands-on support and knowledge-sharing opportunities for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Commenting on the partnership, Commercial Bank EGM, Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer Fahad Badar said, 'This collaboration with QDB reflects our shared vision to cultivate a thriving SME ecosystem in Qatar. Through comprehensive advisory services and knowledge-sharing sessions, we are not only investing in the future of businesses but contributing meaningfully to the development goals of Qatar's 2030 National Vision.' Qatar Development Bank Executive Director of SME Development Dr Hamad Salem Mejegheer also highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement. 'Through this collaboration with our partners at Commercial Bank, we aim to harness our collective expertise to deliver greater impact in entrepreneurship, particularly in supporting SMEs, which form a cornerstone of Qatar's economicdevelopment. This agreement represents a new step toward achieving our strategy to enhance and develop local enterprises, in alignment with the Third National Development Strategy of the State of Qatar (2024–2030),' he said. The agreement underscores the critical role that SMEs play in Qatar's economic diversification efforts and national development priorities. By providing entrepreneurs with the right tools, knowledge, and financial guidance, the partnership is expected to create new opportunities for innovation, growth, and sustainable enterprise development in the country.
Qatar Tribune
24-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
CB, QDB host workshop to empower Qatari exporters
Tribune News Network Doha In a significant move to bolster the global footprint of Qatari businesses, Commercial Bank, a pioneer in digital and financial innovation, joined hands with Qatar Development Bank (QDB), through its export arm Qatar Exports, to host an exclusive workshop titled 'Contract Financing Workshop.' Held at Commercial Bank Plaza, the event brought together financial experts, exporters, and contractors to delve into the scope and opportunities presented by the Bank's overseas contract financing programme. The workshop aimed to provide in-depth insights into how QDB's export-focused solutions and alternative financing channels can support Qatari contractors in participating in international projects, especially in infrastructure and development sectors. The sessions covered the strategic value of credit insurance, guarantee schemes, and customized financial products designed to de-risk cross-border operations and facilitate smoother access to foreign markets. Representatives from both institutions shed light on the evolving needs of Qatari exporters and how public-private partnerships are crucial in empowering local enterprises to compete on a global stage. The discussions highlighted a shared vision: to ensure that Qatari companies, especially those in non-hydrocarbon sectors, have the tools, knowledge, and financial backing to succeed internationally. Qatar Exports, established by QDB, serves as Qatar's official Export Development and Promotion Agency, dedicated to helping Qatari businesses expand internationally in line with the goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030. It provides a wide array of services such as export readiness programmes, international trade missions, guarantee and financing programmes, matchmaking events, market intelligence, and credit insurance. These tools are designed to make Qatari products and services more competitive abroad, especially in emerging and underserved markets. Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Commercial Bank reaffirmed its strong commitment to national development and economic diversification. The Bank described the overseas contract financing programme as a catalyst for driving industrial growth, enhancing cash flow management for large-scale overseas projects, and promoting international partnerships. Commercial Bank Executive General Manager and Chief Wholesale and International Banking Officer Fahad Badar emphasised the importance of collaboration in realising Qatar's export potential. He said, 'At Commercial Bank, we are committed to empowering individuals and enterprises to achieve their professional and financial ambitions. This workshop, organised in collaboration with Qatar Development Bank, aligns with our strategic objective to support Qatari contractors in venturing into international markets. 'The contract financing programme presents a timely and secure opportunity for these contractors to expand their global footprint, supported by our expert financial solutions. Our partnership with QDB is a testament to our shared goal of enabling the growth and success of Qatari businesses.' QDB Vice President of Enterprise Development and Executive Director of Qatar Exports Khalid Abdullah Al Mana echoed similar sentiments while stressing the importance of accessible and targeted support for exporters. He said, 'At Qatar Exports, we are fully committed to providing comprehensive and tailored support to local exporters. Our mission is to ensure that Qatari businesses benefit from the full spectrum of resources and initiatives offered by QDB. 'Hosting such workshops in partnership with leading financial institutions like Commercial Bank allows us to increase awareness and accessibility of key programmes—especially the overseas contract financing programme, which is designed to meet the needs of all Qatari exporters. This initiative plays an essential role in achieving Qatar's vision of building a diversified and export-oriented economy.' The workshop concluded with a Q&A session, providing attendees with an opportunity to explore real-world applications of the financing programme and how it could be leveraged to fuel their international ambitions. By facilitating dialogue between financial institutions, development agencies, and the private sector, the workshop marked a pivotal step in creating a sustainable ecosystem for Qatari exporters. It also underscored the vital role of knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in helping Qatar transition toward a knowledge-based and globally connected economy.
