Activation of the Real Estate Regulation Law to Enhance Transparency and Investment in Qatar
Activation of the Real Estate Regulation Law to Enhance Transparency and Investment in Qatar

Here's the English translation of the revised news article:

Qatar Real Estate Regulatory Authority Launches Key Reforms to Enhance Transparency and Investment

The General Authority for Regulating the Real Estate Sector “Aqarat” announced yesterday, during a press conference, the activation of Law No. (6) of 2014 on real estate sector regulation. The initiative is part of the authority’s efforts to develop the sector and foster an attractive investment environment aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. The event also witnessed the signing of two strategic memorandums of understanding with GMG Holding Group and Commercial Bank, aimed at strengthening public-private partnerships.

A Milestone in Real Estate Governance

H.E. Eng. Khaled bin Ahmed Al Obaidli, Chairman of Aqarat, emphasized that this move marks a significant milestone in promoting transparency, protecting stakeholders’ rights, and regulating the real estate market in line with international best practices. Key initiatives include the launch of a preliminary registration process for developers, formation of licensing and dispute resolution committees, and issuing real estate escrow account guidelines in collaboration with Qatar Central Bank.

He also confirmed that the authority will begin licensing developers and projects based on strict criteria to ensure credibility and efficiency, while enhancing regulatory oversight to guarantee project compliance with approved standards, thereby fostering a fair and transparent investment environment.

Accessible and Transparent Data for Investors

In response to media inquiries, Al Obaidli highlighted that the activation of the law will make comprehensive and transparent real estate data readily available to investors, enabling them to make informed decisions. He explained that a major challenge previously faced by investors was the lack of clarity between marketing phases and actual project completion—particularly for individuals purchasing through brokers or trade exhibitions. The new regulations require full disclosure of such data, and the authority will conduct regular monitoring to ensure compliance.

He added that one of Aqarat’s primary roles is to become a reliable and centralized source of real estate data in Qatar. The authority plans to publish this information on its official website using advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, to support market transparency. He also noted that unlike many countries, Doha only discloses property transactions backed by title deeds, while others include off-plan sales. Aqarat aims to integrate all types of transactions into its statistics, improving the accuracy of sector data.

Private Sector Applauds the Reforms

On this occasion, Sheikh Jabr bin Mansour bin Jabr Al Thani, CEO of GMG Holding Group, praised the authority’s efforts in regulating the market. He stressed that clear legal frameworks are essential to build investor confidence and ensure successful, community-oriented real estate projects.

Similarly, Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani, Assistant General Manager and Head of Government Sector at Commercial Bank, expressed pride in the bank’s role as the first in Qatar to offer real estate escrow accounts in collaboration with Aqarat. He described the initiative as a major step toward enhancing transparency and trust, aligning with the bank’s commitment to support Qatar’s national development journey.