Doha: Qatar’s e-commerce sector is poised for sustained expansion, with the market size expected to grow from $4.54 billion (Rs. 16.53 billion) in 2025 to $4.96 billion (Rs. 18.06 billion) in 2026, according to the latest data from Mordor Intelligence.
According to industry estimates, growth is expected to accelerate further to reach $7.75 billion (Rs. 28.22 billion) by 2031, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.34 percent from 2026 to 2031.
Analysts say a combination of upscale consumer behavior, advanced digital infrastructure and national economic diversification policies are supporting the steady increase in transaction values, despite slowing growth in some regional markets.
Doha-based digital economy analyst Hassan Omar emphasized that Qatar’s consumer base plays a unique role in shaping online retail performance.
“Qatar has one of the highest per capita income levels in the world, which creates strong demand for luxury and curated products online, while luxury consumption is no longer limited to physical stores,” he told The Peninsula.
Experts point out that domestic and cross-border platforms are responding by targeting affluent consumers by offering exclusive collections, premium delivery options and personalized shopping experiences.
Meanwhile, quick-commerce startups are leveraging Doha’s compact geography to offer super-fast delivery of groceries and essentials, often within 15 minutes.
Omar said, “Doha’s urban density gives quick commerce operators a structural advantage. The ability to quickly fulfill orders strengthens customer loyalty and increases basket frequency, which directly contributes to overall market growth.” Meanwhile, fintech innovations are also supporting the sector’s expansion. The report states that the licensing of Sharia-compliant buy-later-pay-later (BNPL) solutions has introduced new liquidity to the market, reduced cart abandonment rates, and given consumers more flexibility to manage high-value purchases.
“Historically, checkout friction has limited the scale of online transactions,” Omar said. “A regulated BNPL product in line with local financial principles helped release deferred spending without compromising compliance.”
Beyond consumer retail, B2B e-commerce is emerging as a second, non-cyclical growth engine. The digitization of procurement related to stadium maintenance, infrastructure projects and smart city pilots has moved the purchasing process from traditional offline methods to integrated online platforms.
Omar added: “Corporate and government procurement is becoming increasingly digital. This transition is creating stable volumes that are less susceptible to consumer sentiment and seasonal fluctuations.” Industry observers also say seamless 5G connectivity and high smartphone penetration continue to strengthen the digital ecosystem.
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