Zawya - Press Releases: Franklin Templeton expands its presence in the Middle East with the opening of a new office in Qatar
Doha, Qatar: The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), a leading financial and business hub, welcomes Franklin Templeton Investments QFC LLC, established by Franklin Templeton International under the QFC umbrella, as part of its plans to strengthen its presence in the Middle East. Following initial approval from the QFC Regulatory Authority, the company will establish its local office in Qatar, further enhancing Doha’s position as a regional hub for global asset managers.
Franklin Templeton is one of the world’s largest independent global asset managers, with approximately $1.78 trillion in assets under management as of May 31, 2026. The firm serves clients through offices in more than 150 countries and has been present in the Middle East for over 25 years. This expansion complements its existing strategic partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority, which previously included the launch of the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund, part of an active asset management initiative to support Qatar’s financial markets.
Through its local office in the Qatar Financial Centre, Franklin Templeton will employ its global platform, accumulated expertise in international investments and innovative financial solutions to support the investment institutions ecosystem in Qatar, thereby supporting the country’s efforts to strengthen its asset management sector, attract global capital and enhance Doha’s position as a leading regional financial center.
In this context, Mr. Mansoor Rashid Al-Khater, CEO of the Qatar Financial Centre, said : “Franklin Templeton is a valuable addition to the financial services ecosystem at the Qatar Financial Centre, and its presence supports the expansion and advancement of the financial sector in Qatar, through its operational capabilities, governance standards and specialized expertise that will enhance our attractiveness to attract international fund managers and investment institutions.”
For her part, Ms. Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, said : “Qatar is a key market in the global asset management sector. The expansion of our business through our new office in the Qatar Financial Centre marks a significant milestone for Franklin Templeton and underscores our commitment to Qatar and the wider Middle East region. Building on our partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority through the launch of the Franklin Templeton Qatar Equity Fund, the opening of this office reflects our firm commitment to strengthening our presence in the Qatari market and enhancing our relationships with clients and partners. It will also allow us to leverage our global investment expertise, deep understanding of the local market, and innovative investment solutions to contribute to the growth and development of Qatar’s financial sector, in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.”
Mr. Salah has been appointed Chairman of Franklin Templeton Investments QFC LLC , in addition to his current responsibilities within the company. He brings over 25 years of extensive investment experience in the Middle East and North Africa region, along with in-depth knowledge of regional markets and portfolio management. His new role will include developing the overall strategy for the Qatar branch, aligning with the company's commitment to supporting the country's financial system.
This new expansion of Franklin Templeton in Qatar through its branch in the Qatar Financial Centre reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the country, and underscores the attractiveness of Qatar’s financial system and the success of the Qatar Financial Centre in attracting global institutions that support the transfer of experiences and knowledge and long-term economic diversification, in service of Qatar National Vision 2030.
About the Qatar Financial Centre
The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) was established to operate within the State of Qatar, specifically in Doha, providing a distinguished business platform for companies wishing to establish and conduct their activities in Qatar or the wider region. The QFC boasts a unique legal and regulatory framework, a robust tax system, and a well-established business environment that allows for 100% foreign ownership, 100% repatriation of profits, and a competitive corporate tax rate of 10% on locally sourced profits. The QFC welcomes all financial and non-financial companies, whether Qatari or international.
For more information on permitted activities and the advantages of doing business under the Qatar Financial Centre umbrella, please visit www.qfc.qa
@QFCAuthority | #QFCMeansBusiness
About Franklin Templeton
Franklin Templeton is a trusted investment partner, providing tailored solutions aligned with clients' strategic objectives. With our deep expertise in portfolio management across public and private markets, we combine investment excellence with cutting-edge technology. Since our founding in 1947, we have empowered our clients through strategic partnerships, forward-thinking insights, and continuous innovation – providing the tools and resources they need to adapt to change and seize opportunities.
Franklin Templeton Investments QFC LLC is a single-shareholder limited liability company incorporated in the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). The company has received preliminary approval from the QFC Regulatory Authority under QFC number 05375 , authorizing it to conduct regulated investment management, transaction arrangement, and investment advice activities . Commencement of these regulated activities is subject to fulfillment of applicable licensing requirements .
For media inquiries:
Sarah Aziz
Head of Public Relations for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa
Franklin Templeton
Email: sarah.aziz@franklintempleton.com
To contact us:
Corporate Communications Department - Qatar Financial Centre
Rasha Kamal El-Din r.kamaleddine@qfc.qa
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