Doha, Qatar – Qatar is kicking off 2025 with momentum. In the first quarter alone, the country’s economy grew by 3.7%, a clear signal that its efforts to diversify beyond oil and gas are paying off. The latest data from the National Planning Council (NPC) shows that Qatar is not just growing — it’s evolving.
Beyond Oil and Gas: A Shift That’s Paying Off
Qatar’s real GDP reached QR181.5 billion in Q1 2025, up from QR175 billion during the same period last year. What makes this growth even more significant is where it’s coming from. While oil and gas still play a major role, the real story lies in the non-hydrocarbon sectors. Which now account for 63.6% of the economy — up from 62.6% in Q1 2024.
That’s over QR115 billion driven by industries like retail, real estate, tourism, construction, and more. It’s a strong sign that the country’s long-term goals under Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) are starting to take shape.
Where the Growth Is Happening
Let’s take a look at some of the sectors fueling Qatar’s success:
- Retail & Wholesale Trade: up by 14.6%
- Accommodation & Food Services: up 13.8%
- Real Estate: up 7.0%
- Manufacturing: up 5.6%
- Construction: up 4.4%
- Transport & Storage: up 3.5%
Whether it’s new developments, rising demand in hospitality, or more tourists visiting Qatar, the numbers show one thing: this is broad-based growth — and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
Services That Improve Daily Life Are Growing Too
It’s not just about buildings and businesses. Sectors that support everyday life also saw progress:
- Professional and Technical Services: up 7.2%
- Healthcare: up 2.6%
- Education: up 0.1%
These may seem like modest gains, but they reflect a growing focus on quality of life, innovation, and long-term investment in human development — all priorities under Qatar’s national vision.
And Yes, Oil and Gas Are Still Strong
Even as Qatar moves toward a more balanced economy, hydrocarbon activities remain steady, contributing 36.4% of real GDP (about QR66 billion) and showing a 1.0% growth compared to Q1 2024. This is crucial, especially as the global energy market faces constant ups and downs.
Qatar’s continued energy exports — especially LNG — help cushion its economy while it expands in other areas.
New Tools for Smarter Measurement
To provide a clearer picture of the economy, the National Statistics Center has introduced an updated method for calculating GDP. Bringing Qatar’s metrics in line with international standards. This included revising past GDP data (2018–2024) and improving how different economic activities are measured — a move that brings more transparency and accuracy to economic planning.
Leadership Speaks: “We’re Just Getting Started”
Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the NPC, summed up the report’s findings with a hopeful outlook:
“These indicators highlight the progress of Qatar’s economy, particularly in non-hydrocarbon growth. But more importantly, they show we have only scratched the surface of our potential. We’re unlocking new opportunities for private sector growth, investment, and long-term sustainability.”
What It All Means
Qatar’s 3.7% economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 is more than a number — it’s a reflection of vision turned into action.
The country is investing in people, opening doors for entrepreneurs, building smarter cities, and drawing more international attention as a competitive hub for trade, tourism, and innovation. It’s not about replacing oil and gas — it’s about building something more balanced, inclusive, and future-ready.
BM Events
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