The World Bank Group has officially inaugurated its first office in Doha, marking a major milestone in its partnership with Qatar and underlining the country’s growing influence in international development and finance.
The new office signals a long-term commitment to closer cooperation, with both sides aiming to expand development financing, mobilise private investment and support countries facing fragility and conflict across the region.
A Regional Hub for Cooperation
Located at the headquarters of the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and established in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, the Doha office will function as a regional centre for collaboration between the World Bank Group and Qatari institutions.
World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the move reflects a shared vision and strengthening ties between the two sides. He noted that the partnership is focused not only on supporting growth in neighbouring countries, but also on encouraging private enterprises and capital to flow into emerging markets, helping to create jobs and long-term prosperity.
Banga added that discussions during his visit extended beyond government cooperation to include financial and development partners across Qatar.
A Milestone for Qatar’s Development Vision
Qatar’s Minister of Finance, H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, described the office opening as a significant step in an already strong relationship. He said the presence of the World Bank Group in Doha would contribute to the national economy and align with Qatar National Vision, particularly through capacity building and training opportunities for young Qataris.
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 guarantees and risk mitigation.
According to Rwodah Ibrahim Al Naimi, Director of Investments at QFFD, the multi-entity structure of the office enables deeper cooperation at both national and international levels, making it a unique platform for engagement.
Mobilising Private Capital for Fragile Economies
Alongside the opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at expanding advisory services and exploring new financing tools, with a particular focus on fragile and conflict-affected countries.
Al Naimi said the partnership is designed to attract private sector participation in areas where investment is often scarce. By blending public funding from QFFD with World Bank instruments such as guarantees, the collaboration seeks to unlock sustainable investments, support small and medium-sized enterprises and generate employment in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
