Doha: The Minister of Finance, Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, has revealed that the State General Budget for 2026 will see total estimated expenditures reaching QAR 220.8 billion. This figure marks a 5 percent increase compared to the 2025 budget, highlighting the state's financial strategy for the upcoming fiscal year.

According to Qatar News Agency, the total expected revenues for the 2026 budget stand at QAR 199.0 billion, which reflects a growth of 1 percent compared to the revenues projected in the 2025 budget. This announcement followed the issuance of Law No. (26) of 2025 by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, which approved the State General Budget for the fiscal year 2026.

Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari stated that the revenue estimates are based on an average oil price of $55 per barrel, maintaining a conservative approach to ensure fiscal sustainability and safeguard against market fluctuations. The increased expenditures reflect the state's ongoing efforts to manage economic growth while preparing for potential economic shifts.

The projected deficit for 2026 is expected to be QAR 21.8 billion. The minister noted that this deficit will be addressed through local and external debt instruments, in line with the state's financing requirements and developments in debt markets.

Al Kuwari also mentioned that a press conference is scheduled for Wednesday to further elaborate on the State Public Budget, discussing its main directions and priorities for the fiscal year.