Money
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- The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) will expand its venture capital programme to USD 3B to attract global fund managers.
- A new 10-year residency aims to anchor founders and senior executives in the local economy.
- The move reflects rising Gulf competition for capital, startups, and long-term private investment.
QIA
Qatar is accelerating its push into venture capital as it looks to strengthen its private sector economy. The country’s sovereign investor will add USD 2 billion to its Fund of Funds programme, taking total commitments to USD 3 billion. The expansion reflects a growing policy focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and non-energy growth.
The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.. Officials increasingly view venture capital as a long-term economic tool rather than a short-term funding channel.
Launched with USD 1 billion, the Fund of Funds programme is managed by Qatar Investment Authority. The initiative does not invest directly in startups. Instead, it allocates capital to regional and international venture capital firms. Those firms are expected to establish operations in Qatar and deploy capital locally over time.
This is an investment program aiming to further strengthen the venture capital landscape in Qatar. It also aims to attract venture capital funds and entrepreneurs to foster a fruitful start-up and venture capital ecosystem. The program seeks to invest more in international and regional venture capital funds. Additionally, it places a priority focus on the tech and healthcare sectors.
Residency
Alongside the funding increase, Qatar announced a new long-term residency programme. The policy will grant 10-year residency permits to entrepreneurs and senior executives. The move is intended to provide stability for founders and investors building businesses in the country.
Qatar’s announcement follows similar initiatives in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Both countries have introduced extended residency schemes to attract skilled professionals and investors.
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