Regulations · Listed companies
QSE ESG Guidance and QFMA rules
Qatar Stock Exchange ESG guidance has been voluntary since 2016. Since August 2025 the QFMA Governance Code requires listed companies to report under the ISSB Standards.
What it is
QSE published its Guidance on ESG Reporting in 2016. It sets out 34 ESG indicators across environmental, social and governance topics, and QSE runs an online platform where listed companies submit data on them.
QFMA Board Decision No. 5 of 2025 issued a new Governance Code for Listed Companies, effective 17 August 2025. Article 11 and Appendix 1.4 require listed companies to use the ISSB Standards.
QFMA guidance requires external assurance of the sustainability report and refers to ISSA 5000. Unlike QCB entities, listed companies cannot delay the first report past the financial statements.
Who it applies to
- Companies listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange main market.
- Listed banks and insurers, which also fall under the QCB framework.
Key dates
| 2016 | QSE Guidance on ESG Reporting, voluntary. |
|---|---|
| Dec 2018 | QSE launches its ESG data platform. |
| 17 Aug 2025 | QFMA Governance Code takes effect. |
| 1 Jan 2026 | First financial year in scope for ISSB reporting by listed entities. |
What to do now
- Map the 34 QSE indicators you already report to IFRS S1 and S2 requirements. Most are metrics, while ISSB also asks for governance, strategy and risk management.
- Plan for the report to publish with your 2026 annual financial statements.
- Engage an assurance provider early and agree the scope against ISSA 5000.
Sources
- Qatar Stock Exchange, Sustainability and ESG
- Qatar Stock Exchange, Guidance on ESG Reporting
- IFRS Foundation, Qatar jurisdictional profile on use of ISSB Standards (updated June 2026)
Summary for orientation only, not legal advice. Always check the current text with the issuing authority.