Eng. Khalid bin Ahmed Al Obaidly, Chairman of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), affirmed that Qatar has made significant strides in building a modern, transparent, and efficient real estate sector in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Speaking during a panel session at the 3rd Qatar Real Estate Forum, he noted that the coming phase will bring greater integration across the real estate ecosystem through updated legislation, innovative financing solutions, and advanced digital systems that enhance investment and strengthen market confidence.

Al Obaidly revealed that the authority has licensed 19 real estate developers so far, urging them to uphold high standards of quality and innovation and complete licensing procedures to ensure transparency and attract local and international investors.

He emphasized that RERA is fostering an enabling regulatory environment that facilitates project completion and allows timely intervention to overcome challenges, adding that developers’ success reflects the nation’s broader economic and urban achievements.

As part of financing reforms, Al Obaidly highlighted the launch of the National Real Estate Regulatory Strategy in December 2023 and the activation of the Escrow Account System in collaboration with the Qatar Central Bank and local banks, helping to reduce risk and encourage new financing tools aligned with global best practices.

He also introduced the “Real Estate Investor Journey” initiative, which allows users to explore certified brokers, licensed projects, and investment opportunities through the official RERA platform.

Strategic partnerships have also been established with global technology companies such as Microsoft and Google to enhance digital services and leverage artificial intelligence in improving user and investor experiences.

Al Obaidly noted that Qatar is now among the leading real estate destinations in the region, supported by modern legislation and clear ownership laws that allow foreign ownership in nine freehold areas and 16 usufruct zones. Foreign investors purchasing property worth at least USD 200,000 are also eligible for residency and property title — even for off-plan purchases.

He added that around 85% of real estate disputes presented to the authority have been resolved amicably, underscoring RERA’s commitment to protecting all stakeholders — developers, investors, and consumers alike.

Finally, Al Obaidly emphasized that the next five years will witness a full digital transformation of Qatar’s real estate sector, enabling investors to complete all transactions remotely, while preserving Qatar’s distinctive Arab and Islamic architectural identity. He also noted ongoing efforts to strengthen GCC cooperation toward unified regulatory frameworks that support regional integration and shared development.