The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Qatar has launched a new “Open Day” initiative designed to streamline the health facility licensing process and improve communication with stakeholders. The program, effective December 1, 2025, offers direct access to licensing officials for health facility owners, investors, and other interested parties. This move aims to increase transparency and efficiency within Qatar’s growing healthcare sector.
Announced via Circular No. (HFD/2025/18) on November 27, 2025, the Open Day policy will be held every Sunday and Tuesday, eliminating the need for prior appointments. The initiative applies to both public and private healthcare facilities operating within Qatar. According to the MoPH, this represents a significant step towards a more accessible and responsive regulatory environment.
Improving Health Facility Licensing Through Direct Engagement
The core objective of the Open Day initiative is to enhance understanding of the requirements for obtaining and maintaining health facility licensing in Qatar. Noura Al-Karbi, a Health Facilities Licensing Specialist at the MoPH, explained that the program will provide a structured forum for guidance and clarification for applicants. This is particularly important as Qatar continues to invest in expanding its healthcare infrastructure and attracting international investment.
Addressing Stakeholder Challenges
The MoPH recognizes that navigating the licensing process can present challenges for healthcare providers. The Open Day initiative directly addresses this by creating a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and receive immediate support. Al-Karbi emphasized that understanding these challenges firsthand will allow the Ministry to develop practical solutions and improve service delivery.
Additionally, the initiative aims to foster greater trust and transparency between the regulatory body and the healthcare community. By facilitating direct communication with department heads, licensing specialists, and other relevant staff, the MoPH hopes to build stronger relationships with those it regulates. This increased interaction is expected to lead to a more collaborative and efficient healthcare regulation system.
Benefits for the Ministry and Healthcare Providers
The benefits of the Open Day extend beyond simply easing the licensing process for applicants. The MoPH anticipates gaining valuable insights into real-world obstacles encountered by healthcare facilities. This feedback will be crucial in refining procedures and ensuring that regulations remain relevant and effective.
Meanwhile, healthcare providers will benefit from reduced administrative burdens and a clearer understanding of their obligations. A smoother licensing process can translate into faster project timelines and quicker access to essential healthcare services for the population. This aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes the development of a world-class healthcare system.
The introduction of this initiative follows a broader trend of regulatory bodies worldwide seeking to improve stakeholder engagement and streamline administrative processes. Qatar’s approach, however, is notable for its commitment to open access and direct communication, removing barriers to entry for potential investors and fostering a more dynamic healthcare market.
Looking ahead, the MoPH will likely monitor the effectiveness of the Open Day initiative through feedback surveys and data analysis of licensing application processing times. The Ministry has not yet announced a specific timeline for reviewing the policy, but it is expected to assess its impact on both applicant satisfaction and internal efficiency in the coming months. Further adjustments to the health facility licensing process may be considered based on these findings.
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
Ministry of Public Health Qatar
Qatar National Vision 2030
