The German automobile manufacturer, Volkswagen (VW) has inaugurated its new regional headquarters at the Msheireb Downtown in Qatar’s capital city, Doha, and established a new business entity named Volkswagen Group Middle-East QFZ LLC (VWGME).
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Herbert Diess, Chairman of the Board of Management at Volkswagen, Mr. Benoit Tiers, Regional Chief Executive Officer of VWGME and Mr. Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Investment Authority (QIA).
Dr. Herbert Diess Chairman Board of Management Volkswagen
“The Volkswagen Group has a long history in the region and a strong relationship with the State of Qatar. The opening today is a symbol of our long-term commitment and dedication to developing this partnership. Doha will become the center of all VW Group activities in the Middle East. This new company will ensure all typical headquarters functions, we know that there is significant room for growth and we want to tackle that potential.”
The new regional headquarters will be responsible for core business functions for the company in the region, including strategy, finance, human resources, information technology, procurement and legal operations. This new entity will lead and support the VW Group activities in all markets where the brand is active in the Middle East.
The new regional headquarters and business entity symbolize the group’s commitment to Qatar and the region. With a presence of more than 15 years, the company recognizes the exceptional value it offers and plans to continue its growth together with local partners.
The Volkswagen Group’s New Auto strategy focuses on mobility for generations to come. The group is shifting to zero-emission electric cars and developing autonomous driving technology to spearhead software and mobility solutions by 2030. This aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 which aims to develop a sustainable and high standard of living for its population and future generations.
The Volkswagen Group will work closely with the relevant government entities to support the nation’s economic and environmental development plans, specifically towards the nation’s sustainable agenda.
As a first step to support the development of full-electric car sales in Qatar, Mr. Diess announced the investment by the Audi brand of $1 million in 2022, which will further develop charging infrastructure in the country in coordination with local partners and authorities.
