Total credit growth in Qatar slowed in January 2026, with the year-over-year rate easing to 3.80%, down from 4.90% in December 2025. The latest data, updated on 1 April 2026, indicate a moderation in lending activity at the start of the year.
On a year-over-year basis, the January reading compares the change in total credit against January a year earlier, while the December figure reflected a similar comparison to December of the previous year. The deceleration suggests that overall credit expansion in the Qatari economy has become more subdued after a stronger finish to 2025.
The shift in momentum between December and January will be closely watched by market participants assessing the strength of domestic demand, investment appetite, and financial conditions in Qatar as 2026 progresses.