ictQATAR creating interactive online business directory

FahrasQatar makes it easier than ever before to search for local businesses by name, location and other attributes. In addition, it allows people to rate businesses, provide testimonials and engage in discussions about local companies.

FahrasQatar enables local businesses to reach potential and existing customers through professional and detailed web presence. Companies can enhance their online profiles to include more than just standard contact information, they can showcase product catalogs, include special promotions and message their customers directly.

"To effectively compete for customers today, businesses need to have a strong online presence. FahrasQatar will allow businesses to market themselves effectively without having to necessarily create their own separate website,"

said Eyas Orabi, Sr. Project Manager responsible for the project.

"For the general public, FahrasQatar will be more than just a valuable online directory. As companies grow their profiles, the site will become a comprehensive catalogue of business offerings in the country."

Currently ictQATAR is working to grow both the number of businesses included in the searchable database and the site's additional functionality.

There is no up-front charge for businesses to register and detailed online presence on FahrasQatar helps businesses make the right first impression with every potential customer. The best ratings and reviews from customers will determine business's viability.

In addition to the searchable directory and profiles, FahrasQatar will also have classified advertisements, business articles, useful links and monthly newsletters that will include new business openings and special offers.

"In our recently released ICT Landscape Report, it was clear that many businesses in Qatar are not taking advantage of the enormous potential of information and communication technology to grow, especially small and medium sized businesses. Through FahrasQatar we will be helping businesses to not only reach potential customers, but also provide a place for businesses to locate strategic partners, read about the latest business trends and interact with their peers," said Khalid Sultan Al-Darwish, Enterprise Development Manager at ictQATAR.

The development of this new portal reflects the growing trend for website owners to deliver content to multiple devices and for consumers to access e-services on a variety of different platforms. FahrasQatar has been designed so that it can be viewed and utilized in a variety of formats, including mobile phones and PDAs in addition to standard PC devices.

This project highlights successful cooperation between ictQATAR, Ministry of Business, Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Urban Planning and Development Authority.