The World Bank Group has officially opened its first office in Doha, signaling a new chapter in its partnership with Qatar and reinforcing the country’s growing role in global development and finance.
The office was inaugurated on Sunday and is expected to deepen cooperation between the World Bank Group and Qatari institutions, particularly in development financing, private investment and support for countries affected by fragility and conflict. It is based at the headquarters of the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.
At the opening ceremony, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga said the new office reflects a stronger relationship built on shared priorities. He highlighted Qatar’s ability to support growth in neighbouring countries while helping channel private capital into emerging markets to drive jobs, prosperity and long-term economic progress.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
The Doha office will act as a regional hub, creating a platform for closer collaboration between the World Bank Group and Qatari partners. According to Banga, discussions during his visit focused on expanding cooperation not only with government institutions, but also with financial and development partners across Qatar.
By establishing a permanent presence in Doha, the World Bank Group aims to improve coordination and enhance its impact across the region.
A Milestone for Qatar’s Development Vision
Qatari officials described the opening as both symbolic and practical. Minister of Finance H.E. Ali bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari said the new office represents a key milestone in a long-standing partnership and reflects how far cooperation between Qatar and the World Bank Group has progressed.
He added that the office is expected to bring tangible benefits to Qatar’s economy and support Qatar National Vision, including capacity building and training opportunities for young Qataris.
Driving Investment in Fragile Economies
The Doha 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, risk management and private investment.
Alongside the opening, QFFD and the World Bank Group signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen advisory services and explore new financing tools, with a particular focus on fragile and conflict-affected countries. QFFD officials said the partnership aims to attract private sector participation where capital is most difficult to mobilise by combining public funding with World Bank instruments such as guarantees.
The collaboration is intended to support small and medium-sized enterprises, create jobs and promote more sustainable investment in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
