Qatar remains one of the most prosperous nations in the Middle East, mostly off the back of its colossal export of oil and gas (particularly liquid natural gas), and it has the third largest reserves in the world. Its natural resources accounted for 60% of its GDP last year.

The country has invested a sizeable amount into developing key construction projects, developments and entertainment facilities in the run-up to the highly anticipated 2022 Fifa World Cup. Key areas of growth include social infrastructure, healthcare and manufacturing. On the contentious side, lawyers have been kept busy with the rise of construction-related disputes which are dominating the market, especially supply chain issues and contractual matters.

The ending of the Qatar blockade has seen a promising start to regional reconciliations among the GCC countries. Market leaders in the legal space include Doha-based international firms; Simmons & Simmons Middle East, White & Case LLP and Dentons. Regional firm Al Tamimi & Company In Association with Adv. Mohammed Al Marri is also of note alongside other well-established local outfits, including Al-Ansari & Associates. Squire Patton Boggs has exited the Qatari market.