Company Formation in Qatar

Qatar is regarded as one of the wealthiest nations in the world. Rich in petroleum and natural gas, the country has been attracting a number of business establishments over the past few decades. The favourable policies of the Government have made the nation more attractive for foreign investments and medium and small business ventures.

Being an economically viable country, with well-developed infrastructure, many entrepreneurs are looking to set up their business ventures in the country. Perfect Plan, a premiere business consultancy firm in Qatar, can assist and guide you on company formation in qatar and company registration in the country.

We advise and assist prospective entrepreneurs on setting up their business establishments in Qatar. Our team of dedicated professionals’ advice clients on the best possible set up that will suit their business

As a top business consultancy firm in Qatar, we provide the following services to clients looking to set up business in Qatar.

To set up a company in Qatar, there are several licensing platforms available including:

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Qatar Financial Centre.
Qatar Free Zones Authority.
Qatar Science and technology park.
Qatar Media City.

Requirements for Business Set Up in Qatar

Aspect	Business Setup Details
Platforms for Incorporation	Ministry of Commerce and Industry Qatar Financial Centre Qatar Free Zones Authority Qatar Science and Technology Park Qatar Media City
LLC Company Registration	A completed application form An application fee A copy of personal identification details for all principals/directors. The business registration and licensing fees may vary depending on the licensing platform and the type of activity.
Commercial Registration (CR)	Commercial Registration includes business name, address , legal structure and activities.It is issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI)
Commercial Registration Requirements	Application Form Copy of ID Other Relevant Documents depending on business type.
Commercial Registration Issuance Time	Within 3 days of document Submission to MOCI
Trade License	Obtained from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Qatar Chamber of Commerce	Registration is required for business registration.
Set Up Space for Office	Building Completion Certificate Rental Agreement or Equivalent Real Estate Rental Authorization Form
Engineering License (Construction/Engineering Firms)	Obtained from Ministry of Municipality and Environment
Construction Permits	Obtained from relevant authorities
Import License	Is required for importing goods.
Labor Laws Compliance	Register with Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Follow labor laws highlighted by the Ministry of Labor and Ministry of Interior Ensure outsourcing company compliance. Review company credibility and performance Ensure required manpower solutions.

Market Survey

Before starting any business, carrying out a thorough market survey is essential. Market surveys give you knowledge on the viability of the business in Qatar, information on competitors, and other important determining factors.

At Perfect Plan, we conduct in-depth and exhaustive market research for our clients, informing them of every detail with regard to their prospective business venture in Qatar.

Choosing the right type of company

There are different types of companies that can be registered in Qatar. Based on the type of business and capital investment, we recommend the right type of company for you.

Simple Partnership Company.
Joint Partnership Company.
Joint Venture Company.
Public Shareholding Company.
Limited Share Partnership Company.
Limited Liability Company.

Scouting for the ideal location

At Perfect Plan, we have a team of experienced surveyors and realtors that can locate the ideal place to set up your company. Our team considers a number of factors like, type of business, target audience and monetary resources before suggesting an appropriate location for your company. We also suggest companies in the Free zone or Business zone in Qatar.

Collaborating with a partner

While setting up a company in Qatar, and especially in the case of foreign investments, understanding the laws of the country is a key factor. A 2010 amendment to the Foreign Investment Law stipulates that foreign investments can be made in most categories. However, at least 51% shares must be held by a legal presence in Qatar.

We, at Perfect Plan have innumerable contacts and trusted acquaintances that can help you find the perfect partner for your venture.

100% Foreign ownership company in Qatar

Companies may be able to register as 100% foreign owned in the state subject to specific limitations. The enactment of a new Foreign Capital Investment Law in December 2018 has opened up most business sectors to 100% foreign ownership, with the exception of:

Banks/Financial services
Insurance companies
Real estate sectors
Commercial Agencies

Advantage

One of the advantages of a 100% foreign ownership company in Qatar is that it allows for complete control and decision-making power to be held by the foreign investor. Additionally, it may provide greater flexibility in terms of business operations and management, as the company is not subject to the same restrictions as locally-owned businesses. Finally, a 100% foreign ownership company may be able to take advantage of certain tax incentives or exemptions that are available to foreign investors.

Disadvantage

One of the disadvantages of a 100% foreign ownership company in Qatar is that it may not be able to participate in certain government contracts or projects that require a certain level of Qatari ownership or participation. Additionally, some sectors may have restrictions on foreign ownership, which could limit the company’s ability to operate in those sectors. Finally, a 100% foreign ownership company may face challenges in navigating the local business culture and regulations, which could impact its ability to succeed in the market.

Incorporation of Company

We offer hassle free company formation in qatar and incorporation procedures for your company. From opening of the valid bank account to registering the company with the tax departments, we provide smooth and easy services incorporation to clients.

We handle all the documentation and legal procedures associated with company formation in Qatar. Our team of experts are well versed in all the licenses required for commencement of the company’s business. Trust Perfect Plan to make your company start on the right note.

Why is Company Formation in Qatar, A Great Opportunity for Investors?

With Qatar's ambitious National Vision 2030 setting the stage for a booming and diversified economy, there's no better time than now to set up your business in this dynamic nation. The vision outlines a clear roadmap for sustainable development, creating a fertile ground for new ventures to flourish. Perfect Plan, a leading business consultant in Qatar, can be your trusted partner in navigating this exciting opportunity. With our in-depth knowledge of the Qatari market and expertise in navigating the implementation plans, Perfect Plan can guide you through every step of establishing your business, ensuring a smooth and successful launch into Qatar's thriving economic landscape.

Qatar National Vision (QNV) and Related Strategies

Aspect	Details
Qatar National Vision 2030	Aim: Transform Qatar into an advanced country by 2030, sustaining development and high living standards.
Published	July 2008
Framework	Four interrelated principles
National Development Strategy	Provides development strategies for government ministries to efficiently work toward QNV 2030 goals
Impact	Creates business opportunities and attracts investors.

Foreign Investment and Company Establishment

Aspect	Details
Foreign Capital Investment Law	Allows non-Qatari investors to own up to 100% of project capital in specific sectors.
Foreign Company Establishment	Can establish a temporary branch for public benefit projects, with possible transition to permanent presence.
Foreign Ownership	Opened up most sectors to 100% foreign ownership, except financial services and real estate
LLC Establishment	Foreign investors usually establish LLCs with a typical ownership structure of 51% Qatari and 49% foreign
Temporary Branch	Used for specific contracts, subject to tax retention until project completion and tax clearance.
Permanent Branch (IECO)	For engineering consultancy offices, not subject to contract tax retention.
Trade Representative Office (TRO)	Used for distribution and marketing, but cannot conduct business directly.
Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP)	Hub for R&D and technology, offering tax exemptions and incentives for companies
Logistics and Warehousing Parks	Provide infrastructure and facilities for various industries, with specific parks focusing on different sectors.
Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)	Promotes Qatar as a hub for international banking and financial services, allowing various business activities and offering its own legal framework based on English common law
Qatar Free Zones (QFZs)	Independent zones offering tax exemptions and incentives for sectors like trade, logistics, manufacturing, and emerging technologies

State-Registered Entities

Aspect	Details
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI)	Oversees commercial and industrial activities, registers establishments, issues licenses, and regulates markets.
Commercial Registration	Required for all businesses, often needed for government transactions.
Foreign Exchange and Dividends	No restrictions on foreign exchange; dividends freely remittable.
Anti-Money Laundering	Legislation in place, sanctions for breaches.
Sources of Finance	No restrictions on using own funds; bank financing available on standard terms.

Import and Export Regulations

Aspect	Details
Employment and Visas	Regulated by Labor Law; work permits and residence permits required for non-GCC nationals.
Visa-Free Entry	Nationals of over 80 countries eligible for visa-free entry.
Work Visas	Employers need an immigrant card to apply for visas and work permits for employees. Quotas may apply based on nationality.

Note : Please contact Perfect Plan to verify the details because it may vary over time.

Main Economic Activity	Establishments with 10+ Employees	Establishments with Less Than 10 Employees	Total
Motion picture, video and television programme production, sound recording and music publishing activities	315	0	315
Computer programming, consultancy and related activities	3092	163	3255
Financial service activities, except insurance and pension funding	2364	110	2474
Activities auxiliary to financial service and insurance activities	2979	38	3017
Real estate activities	18,402	2,142	20,544
Legal and accounting activities	2277	191	2468
Activities of head offices, management consultancy activities	3551	54	3605
Architectural and engineering activities, technical testing and analysis	26,121	455	26,576
Advertising and market research	4895	390	5285
Other professional, scientific and technical activities	4503	526	5029
Veterinary activities	185	19	204
Rental and leasing activities	7,480	1,531	9,011
Employment activities	41,530	1,284	42,814
Travel agency, tour operator, reservation service and related activities	3382	287	3669
Security and investigation activities	30,158	47	30,205
Services to buildings and landscape activities	62,167	903	63,070
Office administrative, office support and other business support activities	2824	323	3147
Total	222,085	5172	227,257

The data provided by the Qatar Planning and Statistics Authority suggests positive indicators for business growth in Qatar in 2021 and the trend seems to continue in 2024. There is a significant number of establishments across various sectors that have more than 10 employees. This suggests that businesses are expanding and hiring more staff. Some of the sectors with a strong presence of establishments with more than 10 employees include architectural and engineering, real estate, rental and leasing, services to buildings and landscape activities, employment activities, security and investigation activities.