Nationalization of Workforce in the GCC Banking Sector: The Case of Alpha Bank in Qatar

Abstract

The Human Resource Department at Alpha Bank has been implementing the concept of Qatarization ever since its inception to align itself with the Qatar Nation Vision-2030. During that process, they have faced various challenges. There were instances of success and failures. This case study starts by portraying the history of Qatarization in the Banking Sector in general and Alpha Bank in particular. Next, the efforts of Alpha Bank in implementing the Nationalization policy is discussed. Further, four remarkable stories reflecting the efforts of the bank are presented. The challenges to Qatarization from various dimensions: organization, government regulations and policies, the GCC crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic were identified. After which, the effectiveness of the Bank’s actions in overcoming these challenges were assessed. The case sums up with recommendations to the bank and highlighting the best practices involving all concerned parties for the most suitable implementation of the Nationalization policy.