Qatar Real Estate Forum Records Over QR1 Bn in Sales, Attracts 16,000 Visitors

The fourth Qatar Real Estate Forum 2026 concluded on Thursday with real estate sales exceeding QR1 billion during the three-day event and its accompanying Cityscape Qatar exhibition, marking a 100% increase compared with the previous year.

Held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) from October 27 to 29, the Forum attracted 16,000 visitors, bringing together investors, developers, industry experts, policymakers and other stakeholders to discuss developments, investment opportunities and the future of Qatar’s real estate market.

Held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Forum featured a series of high-level discussions, technical workshops and presentations on investment, financing, regulation, urban development and emerging technologies in the real estate sector.

The Prime Minister visited the accompanying Cityscape Qatar exhibition, touring the pavilions of major real estate companies and meeting officials, developers and participants. He commended their efforts to strengthen the country’s real estate investment ecosystem and support its comprehensive development journey.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE Dr Sultan bin Saad Al-Muraikhi also visited the exhibition, where he reviewed the latest real estate projects and technological innovations. He received briefings on the role of international partnerships and foreign investment in supporting the sector.

The Forum was organised jointly by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Aqarat) and Informa Tharawat, in partnership with Cityscape Qatar. Its fourth edition focused on the theme ‘Stability as an Asset Class’, highlighting the importance of regulatory clarity, transparency and reliable market data in strengthening investor confidence.

The discussions also examined the contribution of real estate to economic diversification, investment and financing trends, portfolio diversification, real estate investment trusts (REITs) and asset tokenisation. Participants highlighted the importance of asset quality, infrastructure and effective urban planning in supporting sustainable investment decisions.

The accompanying Cityscape Qatar exhibition provided a platform for developers to showcase new projects and investment opportunities, reflecting continued interest in Qatar’s property market. The event also highlighted legislative and regulatory developments aimed at improving transparency and strengthening investor confidence.

On the second day, discussions focused on investment and financing mechanisms, including the role of REITs in broadening access to the real estate market, improving liquidity and diversifying investment opportunities. Speakers also examined strategies for balancing portfolios across residential, commercial and mixed-use properties to achieve sustainable returns.

The Qatar University Architecture Competition, sponsored by JMJ Group Holding, was another highlight. The competition encouraged students to explore innovative designs for mixed-use buildings and demonstrate the role of the next generation in shaping the country’s urban landscape.

Hessa Al Kuwari secured first place, followed by Rawda Mohammed Al-Hazza in second place. Shamsiya Shehab, Rawan Rashid Al Mansouri and Raghad Hammour were also recognised for their outstanding presentations. The entries were evaluated by a panel comprising academics from Qatar University and representatives of international architectural practices, including Michael Graves Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects.

On the final day, discussions turned to Qatar’s position as a destination for living, working and investment. Dr Hamad Rashid Al-Naimi, Chief Strategy Officer at Invest Qatar, presented the country’s investment strengths, while Ammar Samad, Regional General Manager of Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som and Jayasom Affiliates, explored opportunities in health and wellness-focused real estate development.

The role of artificial intelligence in shaping future cities was also discussed by Hassan Ismail Al Emadi, Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, and Harish Consul, Founder and CEO of Ocgrow Group.

A session on ‘Family, Safety and Community’ examined the social foundations of neighbourhood development in Qatar, with contributions from Fahad Mohammed Al-Khayarin, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Development Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family, and Eng Mohammed Abdulhameed Al-Emadi, Director of Development, Planning and Permitting at Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company.

Another discussion highlighted the importance of healthcare, education and connectivity in improving quality of life. Jan Vapaavuori, Chairman of the Board of Finnvera and former Mayor of Helsinki, shared perspectives on the role of essential services and infrastructure in creating attractive and liveable communities.

Qatar’s long-term urban development strategy was examined by Eng Fahad Abdullatif Al-Jahrami, Chief Development and Asset Management Officer – Qatar at Qatari Diar, and Abdullatif Ali Al-Yafei, Executive Director of Public Services at United Development Company.

The future of jointly owned properties under Law No. 11 of 2026 Concerning the Owners’ Association was also discussed. Eng Mubarak Mahboub Alnaimi, Director of Licensing and Training Affairs at Aqarat, joined representatives from UDC and the property management sector to examine the implications and future direction of the regulatory framework.

Meanwhile, the Innovation Stage explored developments in real estate investment beyond Qatar, the future of housing and technology-driven investment models. Anand Narayanan KB, Co-Founder of Alt DRX, presented a study on asset tokenisation and its potential to make real estate investment more accessible to individuals with smaller savings.

Abir Abou Chacra, Head of Sales and Operations at Property Finder, and Jeffrey Asselstine, Managing Director of NelsonPark Property, presented market data and insights into changing buyer and tenant preferences in Qatar.

The programme also featured a practical workshop on real estate valuation conducted by Adrian Camps, Training Director at RealEstate Executive Training and Head of Valuation and Consultancy at Capstone Property. Additional discussions focused on asset data management, regulatory oversight and the interpretation of market indicators.

Mohammed Makki, Director of Real Estate Investment at Aqarat, concluded the Innovation Stage with a discussion on understanding market indicators and their relevance to investment decisions.

The Forum’s latest edition reinforced its role as a platform connecting regulators, developers, investors and industry professionals, while providing an opportunity to examine the regulatory, financial and technological developments shaping Qatar’s real estate sector and its future growth prospects.