Why Board Training Matters Now
The Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA) 2025 Governance Code for Listed Companies marks a turning point in how boards operate. Compared with the 2016 Code, the new framework sets stricter requirements for board size, independence, insider obligations, committee structure, disclosure, and — for the first time — mandatory ESG and sustainability reporting.
While listed companies have a one-year grace period (until August 2026) to achieve compliance, the reality is that boards must begin preparing immediately. The Code is already effective, and IPO candidates or newly listed companies are required to comply from day one.
For directors and senior executives, this means navigating a host of new obligations:
- Restructuring boards to between seven and eleven members.
- Ensuring at least three independent directors with higher qualification standards and a two-term cap.
- Complying with stricter rules on board chair roles, committees, and insider definitions.
- Overseeing the preparation of annual sustainability reports aligned with global frameworks.
- Adopting a formal Disclosure and Transparency Policy.
The challenge is not just knowing the rules — it’s applying them effectively in the boardroom. That’s where structured, practical board training becomes essential.
What the Training Covers
LAMAH’s “Governance Mastery for the QFMA 2025 Code” program equips board members and senior leadership with the knowledge and tools to meet these obligations confidently.
Modules include:
- The 2025 Code at a Glance – key changes from 2016, compliance deadlines, and regulatory expectations.
- Board Composition & Independence – the new 7–11 rule, independence criteria, and succession planning for independent directors.
- Committees & Chair Roles – updated duties of Audit, Nomination, and Remuneration Committees, and restrictions on board chairs.
- Insider Compliance – expanded insider definitions (including committee members and family), trade controls, and disclosure obligations.
- ESG & Sustainability Reporting – understanding ISSB/GRI frameworks, building ESG data readiness, and aligning board oversight with sustainability goals.
- Disclosure & Transparency – the new policy requirement, enhanced annual governance reports, and protecting shareholder equality.
Each session includes real-world case studies, interactive discussions, and practical scenarios tailored to Qatar-listed companies.
Formats and Delivery
We understand that boards have limited time and varying needs. That’s why our training is available in both Arabic and English and two formats:
- Boardroom Workshop (3–4 hours): In-person, tailored to a single company’s board.
- Executive Briefing (1.5 hours): Virtual session focusing on high-level implications.
Every format is designed to be practical, relevant, and immediately applicable. Participants leave with clear action points and a deeper understanding of their responsibilities under the new Code.
Benefits for Boards and Companies
Investing in board training now delivers benefits that go beyond compliance:
- Investor trust: A well-trained board signals maturity and transparency, making the company more attractive to institutional investors.
- Regulatory confidence: Boards can demonstrate to QFMA and shareholders that they are proactively preparing for the 2025 Code.
- Stronger governance: Directors understand how to apply the Code in a way that strengthens oversight and board effectiveness.
- ESG readiness: Boards are equipped to lead sustainability reporting efforts, a completely new obligation under the Code.
- Reduced risk: Missteps around insider trading, disclosures, or committee roles are minimized through education.
Why LAMAH
LAMAH brings a unique blend of regulatory expertise, governance advisory experience, and practical training capability. Our consultants have worked with boards across financial services, industrial groups, and government-linked companies — giving us the perspective to design training that is not theoretical, but real-world and relevant.
We combine educational clarity with strategic insight. Our goal is not just to help boards “tick the box,” but to help them elevate governance into a competitive advantage.
Take the Next Step
The countdown to compliance has already begun. Boards that prepare early will avoid last-minute challenges — and position themselves as leaders in Qatar’s evolving capital market.
Contact LAMAH today to schedule your Board Training for the QFMA 2025 Code. Together, we’ll turn regulatory change into opportunity.
