Social and economic optimism is high among Qataris and both high-income and low-income expatriates, first quarter (Q1) findings from the Qatar Quarterly Survey (QQS) – an opinion-monitoring poll conducted by Qatar University’s Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (Sesri) – suggest.

Data collection for Q1 was conducted during the months of March and April 2014.

A representative sample of 2,717 respondents (894 Qatari nationals, 889 high-income expatriates and 934 low-income expatriates) were asked about their personal financial situation, quality of life and perceptions on the overall economy in Qatar.

Qatari citizens presented the highest ratings (of 90.8) in consumer confidence.

High-income expatriates rated 85.9 and low-income expatriates 87.3

The Qatar Consumer Confidence Index is an indicator of the degree of optimism or pessimism that consumers express with respect to their personal financial situation and to the overall state of the economy, affecting their expenditures.

A higher consumer confidence index is generally associated with more consumer purchases and economic expansion.

When asked to evaluate their current financial condition and share their future economic expectations, respondents’ answers revealed an upward trend, indicating relative financial security and optimistic prospects for the future.

On their current economic conditions, Qatari citizens rated 86.8, high-income 77.3, and low-income expatriates 76.8.

The survey also revealed optimism for future economic conditions, as Qatari citizens rated 92.1, high-income 88.7, and low-income expatriates 90.8.

Respondents indicated a positive outlook when rating Qatar as a place to live in now, one year ago and one year from now.

Ratings were based on a scale from 0 to 100, with 0 representing the worst place to live in and 100 the best place to live in.

Ratings from a year ago showed 84 for Qatari citizens, 73 for high-income expatriates, and 69 for low-income expatriates.

Current year ratings showed 92 for Qatari citizens, 78 for high-income expatriates, and 77 for low-income expatriates.

Year-ahead ratings showed 95 for Qatari citizens, 83 for high-income expatriates, and 84 for low-income expatriates.

Commenting on the findings, Sesri director and associate vice-president for research Dr Darwish Alemadi said: “Our survey results reveal high consumer confidence levels among Qatari residents, who remain optimistic about the economy. Findings from the QQS serve as important markers for business owners and policymakers who are looking for indicators on consumer behaviour.”

Sesri’s head of research and QQS principal investigator Dr Abdoulaye Diop said that the findings, along with the upcoming results, will provide important information about the social and economic trends in Qatar.Photo: www.forbes.com

Follow us on our social media channels: @ILQlive @ILQlive @ILoveQtr ILoveQatar

QNE

Start a discussion