Commercial Bank Becomes Qatar’s First to Launch Real Estate Escrow Accounts in Groundbreaking Partnership with ‘Aqarat’

By: Velorine

Setting a new standard in transparency, trust, and investor protection for Qatar’s real estate sector

Doha, Qatar – In a landmark move that reinforces Qatar’s commitment to responsible real estate development and investor protection, Commercial Bank has become the first bank in the country to introduce Real Estate Escrow Accounts, in partnership with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, Aqarat. This bold initiative aligns seamlessly with Qatar National Vision 2030, setting a new benchmark for the real estate and banking sectors alike.

At a high-profile press conference, Aqarat announced the activation of Law No. (6) of 2014, aimed at regulating the real estate sector through secure and transparent financial practices. The introduction of Real Estate Escrow Accounts dedicated bank accounts for each development project ensures that buyers’ funds are safeguarded and strictly allocated to the completion of the corresponding project.

Raising the Bar on Transparency and Investor Confidence

His Excellency Engineer Khalid bin Ahmad Al-Obaidli, President of Aqarat, stated:

“This is a transformative moment. Escrow accounts are designed to protect buyers and ensure that developers remain fully accountable. Our partnership with Commercial Bank and Qatar Central Bank has created a powerful framework that boosts transparency, trust, and investor confidence in the real estate market.”

A Milestone in Financial Innovation

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Aqarat and Commercial Bank underscores a milestone in financial innovation and regulatory collaboration. Joseph Abraham, Group CEO of Commercial Bank, commented:

“This initiative is a testament to our deep-rooted commitment to innovation and responsible banking. As the first bank to roll out Real Estate Escrow Accounts in Qatar, we’re proud to play a leading role in shaping a more secure, credible, and investor-friendly real estate ecosystem.”

Banking on National Vision

Ali bin Abdulla Al Thani, Assistant General Manager and Head of Government and Public Sector at Commercial Bank, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative:

“This is not just a banking product, it’s a national priority. At Commercial Bank, we align our goals with Qatar’s aspirations for economic diversification and sustainable development. By launching Escrow Accounts, we are enabling safer investments, supporting developers, and ensuring buyers’ peace of mind.”

What Escrow Means for Buyers and Developers

The implementation of Real Estate Escrow Accounts ensures that:

• Buyers’ funds are protected until project milestones are met
  
• Developers are held accountable to timelines and budget allocations
  
• Investors gain greater confidence in the real estate sector
  
• Transparency becomes the norm, not the exception
  

This structure not only protects individual buyers but also supports the country’s broader vision of fostering a resilient, globally competitive real estate market.

Looking Ahead

As Qatar continues to build vibrant, future-ready cities, this initiative marks a foundational shift toward financial integrity in real estate. With Commercial Bank leading the charge, the Escrow Account system is set to redefine how property transactions are managed—ushering in a new era of trust, governance, and smart growth.

Commercial Bank’s bold first step is more than a financial innovation; it’s a nation-building tool.