Doha: HE Governor of QCB Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al-Thani emphasized the significance of National Day as a time to renew belonging and loyalty to the homeland and leadership. He revealed several pioneering initiatives implemented by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB), including the establishment and operation of a real estate development escrow account, data processing and protection instructions, a sustainable finance framework, and financial service guidelines for customers with disabilities and the elderly. Additionally, a circular was issued regarding a change in the fifth issue of Riyal banknotes, aligning with Qatar's regulatory laws.
According to Qatar News Agency, the first auction within the distributors framework was successfully completed, leading to the issuance of government bonds and sukuk in local currency for the Ministry of Finance. The second phase of this framework was also executed, featuring secondary market trading and the listing of Ijara sukuk, building on the successful launch of the first phase in January 2025.
The QCB has supported emerging national companies in financial technology as part of its commitment to building an advanced digital financial and banking system. By September 2025, 14 financial technology companies were licensed and supervised by the QCB. The bank also approved several companies to join the regulatory sandbox and the accelerated regulatory sandbox, enhancing innovation in the fintech sector.
His Excellency noted QCB's initiatives to utilize digitalization and artificial intelligence, facilitating transactions and promoting financial inclusion. The launch of Apple Pay for 'Himyan' cardholders and a collaboration with Qatar Airways' Privilege Club exemplify these efforts, offering unique benefits such as earning 'Avios' points for daily purchases.
International reserves and foreign currency liquidity at QCB grew to approximately QAR 261.1 billion in September 2025, marking a 3.1 percent increase from September 2024. QCB's total official reserves reached approximately QAR 201.5 billion, a 3.7 percent growth, while commercial banks' total assets were approximately QAR 2.15 trillion, a 6.2 percent increase from the previous year.
HE Governor of QCB concluded by affirming the bank's dedication to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of the financial sector. The QCB aims to support stability, diversification, innovation, and financial inclusion through future initiatives and projects that will contribute to the digital transformation of the financial sector.