As we step into 2025, KPMG in Qatar is pleased to present the 2024 Qatar CEO Outlook—a deep dive into the priorities, challenges, and aspirations of business leaders who have steered their organizations through an era of transformation.
This report captures key insights into how Qatar’s CEOs are shaping their growth strategies, responding to economic and geopolitical shifts, integrating ESG into their business models, adapting to talent dynamics, and harnessing the potential of generative AI. With optimism and resilience at the core of their leadership, CEOs in Qatar are positioning their organizations for long-term success. The findings of this report offer a comprehensive perspective on the evolving business landscape, equipping leaders with the foresight needed to navigate the future with confidence.
CEOs in Qatar are exhibiting innovation, endurance and agility as they navigate a constantly changing global landscape. They are preparing their businesses for long-term success by embracing generative AI and disruptive technologies, prioritizing inclusive talent strategies, and reinventing ESG as a value creation engine.
Economic Outlook
Qatar’s CEOs display strong confidence in growth prospects at both company and national levels, with 96% expressing confidence in their company’s future and 88% feeling assured about the nation’s economic trajectory. Industry-level confidence stands at 72%, although global prospects inspire more cautious optimism (52%).
Qatar's CEOs remain confident in their growth potential and the strength of the national economy, yet today's challenges highlight the critical need for resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking strategies to navigate an evolving landscape.
ESG
Qatari CEOs are committed to embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their strategies, with 52% expecting measurable returns on ESG investments within three to five years. Another 36% foresee benefits in five to seven years, reflecting a medium-term view of ESG as a growth enabler. A smaller group (12%) expects returns within one to three years, indicating confidence in shorter-term outcomes for some.
As we look to the future, ESG will be a cornerstone of sustainable growth. Investing in renewable energy, socially inclusive policies, and responsible business practices not only drives long-term value but also attracts the next generation of talent, positioning organizations for enduring success.
Talent
Talent challenges, from an aging workforce to generational shifts, present strategic opportunities for growth. By leveraging AI-driven learning, fostering cross-generational mentorship, and prioritizing upskilling, Qatar’s companies can build a future-ready workforce that drives long-term, sustainable development in alignment with the nation’s vision.
Qatari CEOs overwhelmingly envision a return to traditional office setups, with 100% predicting fully in-office roles for corporate employees within three years. This approach underscores a preference for structured work environments over hybrid or remote models.
Technology emerges as the cornerstone of transformation, with 80% prioritizing capital investment in new technologies compared to only 20% focusing on workforce skills. While this highlights a strong push for digital advancement, it also points to an underinvestment in human capital development.
Technology and Generative AI
Generative AI is both an opportunity and a challenge for Qatari CEOs. While 48% see it asa top priority (24% strongly agreeing), 40% remain hesitant due to competing priorities. Ethical challenges (60%), technical skills (56%), and regulatory gaps (36%) are the top barriers to implementation, while concerns like misinformation (20%) and environmental sustainability (12%) are less pressing. Despite this, 64% anticipate returns on generative AI investments within three to five years, and 80% believe it will serve as both a disruptor and a competitive advantage.
Generative AI offers a transformative pathway for innovation and growth in Qatar. By establishing strong ethical frameworks, investing in training, and implementing robust AI governance, Qatar’s companies can harness its potential while aligning with the nation’s ambitious vision for the future.
