Qatar is set to host the 2026 FIATA Region Africa and the Middle East (RAME) Field Meeting and Conference for the first time, a landmark event poised to solidify the nation’s status as a critical logistics and freight forwarding hub. The two-day conference will take place on May 11-12, 2026, at the Sheraton Doha.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Qatar Chamber (QC) headquarters, highlighting the strategic importance the country places on the sector. The event will be held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.
A Strategic Milestone For Qatar’s Logistics Sector
Eng. Ali bin Abdellatif Al-Misnad, a QC board member and chairman of the Qatar Association of Freight and Logistics (QAFL), described the conference as one of the most “significant international gatherings” for the logistics and transportation industry.
“Hosting the event under the patronage of the Prime Minister underscores the strategic value the country places on logistics as a key pillar of economic growth and diversification,” stated Al-Misnad.
The conference is expected to draw more than 1,500 delegates, including freight forwarders, logistics providers, policymakers, and industry experts from across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.
Fostering Regional and Global Partnerships
The event aims to provide a major platform for Qatari private-sector companies to connect directly with global industry leaders, share expertise, and explore new business partnerships.
“The strong international participation expected reflects Qatar’s growing stature as a regional and global logistics hub, supported by advanced infrastructure, modern ports and airports, and a business-friendly regulatory environment,” Al-Misnad added.
An accompanying exhibition will feature leading Qatari, Gulf, and regional companies, offering a valuable networking and business development platform for local firms to showcase their services and explore investment opportunities.
GCC Collaboration and Trade Efficiency
A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Qatar Chamber and the Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCCC) to jointly support the conference’s organization, ensuring broad regional participation.
Saleh bin Hamad Al-Sharqi, Secretary-General of the FGCCC, praised the cooperation, noting the conference would be an important forum for knowledge exchange, addressing supply chain challenges, and strengthening public-private partnerships.
“Such collaboration reflects a shared commitment to supporting the logistics sector and improving trade efficiency across the Gulf and wider region,” Al-Sharqi commented. He expressed confidence that the Doha conference would produce practical outcomes to support the sector’s long-term development.
About Qatar Chamber
The Qatar Chamber of Commerce & Industry is one of the oldest Chambers in the GCC countries. Since its inception in 1963, it has been playing a vital role in the economic development of Qatar by supporting the activities of the private sector and promoting Qatar as a vibrant international business hub.
Source: Zawya
