FinTech Qatar Research Project

Towards a Financial Inclusive Qatar Society

FinTech as a Tool to Enhance SMEs Financial Access and Performance in Qatar

Fintech Serving Humanity

From households to businesses, from women to workers — we explore how technology makes a real difference in daily life.

With Today's Tools... We Shape Tomorrow's Economy

Our project outlines the next generation of financial policies that foster innovation, equity, and empowerment for all.

About the Project

NPRP14-S No.: 0401-210125

Fintech, Financial Inclusion and Economic Transformation of Qatar

Objectives

Examine how FinTech enhances financial inclusion among households in the State of Qatar
Examine the relationship between household characteristics and FinTech adoption in the State of Qatar
Provide policy recommendations on the use of FinTech as a tool to enhance financial inclusion in the State of Qatar
Provide policy recommendations on the use of FinTech to increase financial access for SMEs in the State of Qatar
Address a key element of Qatar Vision 2030 of creating an inclusive and technological driven society and economy

Relevance to Qatar Vision 2030

This research directly supports to Qatar's National Vision 2030 by promoting a knowledge-based and inclusive economy and society.
It explores how FinTech can reduce inequality, empower women, and expand access to financial services for underserved populations and SMEs.

Project Phases

Phase 1: Literature Review and Research Design

Comprehensive review of existing literature and strategic design of advanced research tools and methodologies

Phase 1: Literature Review and Research Design

Comprehensive review of existing literature and strategic design of advanced research tools and methodologies

Phase 2: Data Collection

Conducting field surveys with households and SMEs, and collecting relevant secondary data

Phase 3: Analysis and Econometric Modelling

Employ advanced econometric and statistical analysis tools to test research hypotheses and derive key study insights

Phase 3: Analysis and Econometric Modelling

Employ advanced econometric and statistical analysis tools to test research hypotheses and derive key study insights

Phase 4: Policy and Legal Review

Assessment of Qatar's legal and regulatory landscape for FinTech, with policy recommendations

Phase 5: Final Reporting and Dissemination

Produce policy reports, working papers, research articles, and sharing results through research workshops, seminars and public outlets

Phase 5: Final Reporting and Dissemination

Produce policy reports, working papers, research articles, and sharing results through research workshops, seminars and public outlets

Research Team

Leading experts in finance, FinTech, and regulation from Qatar University and the University of Westminster (UK)

Dr. Rami Zeitun (Lead PI)

Professor of Finance
University, College, and Department: Department of Finance & Economics, College of Business & Economics, Qatar University
rami.zeitun@qu.edu.qa

Dr.Abdelhafid Benamraoui (PI)

Professor of Finance
University, College, and Department: School of Finance and Accounting, College of Business, University of Westminster.
a.benamraoui@westminster.ac.uk

Dr.Mohamed Goaied (PI)

Professor of Economics
University, College, and Department: Department of Finance & Economics, College of Business & Economics, Qatar University
mgaied@qu.edu.qa

Dr.Houcem Smaoui (PI)

Professor of Finance
University, College, and Department: Department of Finance & Economics, College of Business & Economics, Qatar University
hsmaoui@qu.edu.qa

Dr.Issam Malk (PI)

Reader – associate professor
University, College, and Department: School of Finance and Accounting, College of Business, University of Westminster.
i.malki@westminster.ac.uk

Dr.Andrew Dahdal (PI)

Associate Professor
University, College, and Department: College of Law, Qatar University.
adahdal@qu.edu.qa

Scientific Blog

Specialized scientific articles in financial technology and financial inclusion

Featured Aug 25, 2025

FinTech and Qatar National Vision 2030: A Strategic Alignment

Explore how FinTech aligns with Qatar Vision 2030 to drive economic diversification, financial inclusion, and digital transformation across the nation.

Featured Aug 25, 2025

FinTech and the Future of Inclusive Finance in the Arab Gulf

FinTech is redefining finance in the Arab Gulf. Learn how Qatar can lead in inclusive, ethical, and innovation-driven digital financial services through policy, research, and collaboration.