IMF sees Qatar’s economy shrinking 8.6% in 2026 amid regional disruption

Qatar’s economy is expected to contract in 2026 before rebounding in 2027, as regional conflict disrupts energy markets and trade flows, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Tuesday.

In its latest World Economic Outlook, the IMF forecast Qatar’s economy would shrink by 8.6 per cent in 2026, before rebounding by the same magnitude in 2027, assuming normalisation of energy production and transportation networks across the region.

The Fund said Qatar is among several economies, including Iran, Bahrain, and Kuwait, expected to contract in 2026 due to disruptions to energy infrastructure and limited access to alternative export routes.

Like other oil and gas exporters, Qatar faces pressure from disruptions to energy infrastructure and key shipping routes.

However, the outlook remains uncertain, with risks tied to the duration and intensity of the conflict and its impact on global energy markets.

Amwal Al Ghad English