Qatar’s Shura Council recently convened to celebrate Qatar National Day and discuss key national strategies, including the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, and a proposed amendment to the Excise Tax Law. The Council extended congratulations to the Amir, Father Amir, Deputy Amir, and the people of Qatar on the December 18th holiday, emphasizing the importance of youth in the nation’s continued progress. Discussions centered on economic diversification, sustainability, and improving government efficiency, all crucial elements of Qatar’s long-term development strategy.
Shura Council Highlights Qatar’s National Development Strategy
The Shura Council affirmed that the current National Day slogan, “With You It Rises, and From You It Awaits,” reflects Qatar’s national vision, which prioritizes its citizens and the role of young people in building the future. This vision is directly linked to the implementation of the Third National Development Strategy, a comprehensive plan designed to guide Qatar through the next phase of its growth. According to the Council, the strategy aligns with the broader Qatar National Vision 2030, aiming for sustainable progress across all sectors.
Key Pillars of the 2024-2030 Strategy
Secretary-General of the National Planning Council, Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, presented a detailed overview of the strategy’s core components. These include sustainable economic growth, fiscal sustainability, a future-ready workforce, a cohesive society, improved quality of life, environmental sustainability, and high-performing government institutions. A central focus is the creation of an integrated national data ecosystem, which Dr. Al Khalifa described as a national priority.
The strategy aims to diversify Qatar’s income sources and enhance its competitiveness in the global market. Emphasis was also placed on improving public spending efficiency and developing innovative financing mechanisms for development programs. Furthermore, the plan recognizes the need for a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market, with modernization of education and training policies being a key objective.
Strengthening Qatar-Saudi Arabia Ties
The Council also commended the outcomes of the eighth meeting of the Qatari-Saudi Coordination Council, co-chaired by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to expanding cooperation in vital areas such as politics, security, defense, economics, investment, energy, technology, and economic development.
A particularly significant outcome of the meeting is the planned high-speed electric rail link between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. This project is expected to facilitate trade, boost tourism, and enhance regional integration, representing a major step in solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Council believes this infrastructure project will support security and prosperity throughout the region.
Excise Tax Law Amendment Under Review
In addition to the development plan discussions, the Shura Council announced it will review a draft law amending certain provisions of Law No. (25) of 2018 concerning Excise Tax. The draft law has been referred to the Economic and Financial Affairs Committee for detailed examination, in accordance with the Council’s procedural rules. This review is part of ongoing efforts to refine Qatar’s fiscal policies and ensure long-term financial stability.
Members of the Council expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General’s presentation and emphasized the importance of aligning the strategy’s programs with the actual needs of the Qatari community. They also highlighted the need for stronger institutional integration, accelerated digital transformation, and robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the strategy’s success. The importance of population policy and preserving national identity were also raised during the session, alongside the need for sustainable urban planning.
Looking ahead, the Shura Council will continue to monitor the implementation of the Third National Development Strategy and provide input on policy development. The Economic and Financial Affairs Committee is expected to complete its review of the Excise Tax Law amendment in the coming weeks, with a final vote by the Council anticipated shortly thereafter. The success of these initiatives will be crucial for Qatar as it navigates a changing global landscape and strives to achieve its ambitious long-term goals, including furthering its national strategy for a diversified and sustainable future. The ongoing focus on data-driven decision making and regional cooperation will be key indicators of progress.
The Council also discussed the importance of innovation and digital transformation in accelerating the implementation of government programs and improving service efficiency, a key component of Qatar’s broader strategic planning efforts.
