The Banking Executive Issue - October 2025 Issue

Onchain Finance In Arab Countries GROWTH OF ONCHAIN FINANCE IN QATAR Onchain finance in Qatar is steadily gaining momentum, supported by the country’s fintech strategy and its commitment to digital transformation under Qatar National Vision 2030. The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) is actively fostering the integration of blockchain and Islamic finance, of- fering incentives like 100% foreign ownership, profit repatriation, and a competitive tax system to attract global fintech. The digital payments market is projected to reach 2.87 million users by 2028, while neobanks and blockchain-based platforms are emerging as key play- ers in reshaping financial services. Regulatory bodies such as the Qatar Central Bank are promoting innova- tion through sandbox programs and strategic partnerships, positioning Qatar as a rising hub for onchain fi- nance in the Gulf region. ISSUE 202 OCTOBER 2025 the BANKING EXECUTIVE 81 These institutions are laying the groundwork for a growing onchain finance ecosystem in Qatar, particularly in areas like Islamic finance, tokenization, and digital compliance. KEY PROVIDERS OF ONCHAIN FINANCE IN QATAR AND THEIR ROLES Provider Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Qatar Development Bank (QDB) Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH) Local and Regional Fintechs Regulatory and business platform for fintech and blockchain firms Oversees financial regulation and innovation Supports fintech startups and digital transformation Accelerator for fintech and DeFi startups Emerging players in tokenized assets, digital payments, and Islamic DeFi Offers sandbox programs and incentives for blockchain- based financial services Exploring central bank digital currency (CBDC) and blockchain integration Provides funding and incubation for blockchain-based financial solutions Hosts global blockchain startups and supports onchain finance innovation Participating in QFC and QFTH programs Role in Onchain Finance Notable Initiatives