The Qatar Financial Centre, one of the world's leading and fastest growing business and financial centers has commended on the recently published Qatar State Budget for 2018.

Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC Authority commented on the release of Qatar's 2018 State Budget stating: "The State Budget for 2018 is testament to Qatar's strong economic performance despite the ongoing blockade. As the country's only business and financial centre, our overall strategy has always been to diversify the local economy and continue to attract FDI, so we are especially proud that the budget showed a clear increase in non-oil revenue and we look forward to seeing this continue to rise in the years ahead."

He continued: "In 2017, the QFC continued its international outreach with roadshows across Europe and Asia and there was a clear indication of interest from abroad in ongoing major projects in the buildup to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Qatar's economy will continue to provide a vast array of opportunities for local and international investors as we continue to grow and develop in line with QNV 2030."

He concluded: "The current regional developments do not deter us from our growth objectives and plans and this budget is further proof that Qatar remains open for business."

Earlier this year, the QFC reiterated and pledged their support and commitment to the goals set out by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar during his first speech since the onset of the on-going regional crisis.