Qatar - Business Setup
- Registration in 3 to 4 weeks (upon validation of your identification documents).*
- Client Confidentiality & Data Protection
- Investors can open bank accounts locally and internationally
- Dedicated Manager Available Throughout The Year
About Qatar
Qatar, a sovereign state in the Middle East, has evolved into a significant global player in oil and gas production since gaining independence from Britain in 1971. In alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030, the government is actively pursuing economic diversification. Notably, in 2019, the country implemented measures to attract foreign direct investment, allowing 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, with exceptions for financial services and insurance. The establishment of the Investment Promotion Agency further streamlined procedures for businesses interested in establishing a presence in Qatar.
Qatar has invested heavily in infrastructure, spending hundreds of billions on stadiums, transport links, and other facilities. These projects have already yielded tangible benefits for residents, such as improved expressways and the inauguration of the Doha Metro. The government aims to ensure a lasting economic legacy, contributing to the realization of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Navigating the business landscape in Qatar can be intricate, necessitating a meticulous approach to the incorporation process. Recognizing the challenges of entering new markets, SFM Corporate Services, along with its strategic partner, is positioned to assist businesses in overcoming obstacles. Their collaborative efforts aim to facilitate a seamless and efficient entry into the Qatari market, providing businesses with the necessary resources to thrive.
In summary, Qatar's trajectory as a key player in oil and gas has been complemented by strategic initiatives for economic diversification outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030. The nation's commitment to fostering foreign direct investment, coupled with significant investments in infrastructure, underscores its global prominence. SFM Corporate Services stands ready to guide businesses through the intricacies of market entry, ensuring a successful and sustainable presence in Qatar.
Company Formation in Qatar: Benefits & Tax Advantages
- 100% foreign ownership
- 0% to 10% corporate tax (depending on where the company is registered)
- Up to 50 shareholders
- Strategic access to global markets
- Strong contract enforcement & financial incentives
- Largest GDP per capita of the region
- Residence Visa
- One of the safest countries in the world
- Strong government support for infrastructure and related projects
- New modern environment perfect for the safe storage of goods within proximity to your retail environment
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Previously, foreign companies were typically allowed to own up to 49% of an onshore company, with local partner holding 51% in Qatar. The LLC encompasses a wide range of activities, although certain restrictions apply, such as the requirement for Qatari ownership in some cases. As of 2023, 100% foreign ownership of onshore LLCs is possible with prior approval from the ministry.
Key Details:
- Timelines: Completion within 1 week (provided the investor's documents are attested and ready in Qatar, and office space is secured with a signed lease agreement).
- General Manager (GM) needs residency and a Qatar ID.
- Legal Reserve: 10% of net profit.
- Annual license renewal is mandatory.
- Office space is a prerequisite.
- Appointment of auditors within 30 days.
- Compliance with Labour Quotas and the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Foreign Company Branch Office
This type of branch office allows for 100% foreign ownership, contingent upon obtaining a government-issued contract. The existence of the branch is limited to the duration of the specific project outlined in the contract, and it is not authorized to engage in any other activities.
Key Details:
- Shareholder: Overseas Parent Company with 100% ownership.
- Timelines: Completion within 2-4 weeks (provided the investor's documents are attested and ready in Qatar, and office space is secured with a signed lease agreement).
- A contract with the government or a semi-government entity is mandatory.
- The branch is exclusively permitted to fulfil the government contract for which it was established.
- The General Manager (GM) requires residency and a Qatar ID.
- Annual license renewal is a prerequisite.
- Office space is a mandatory requirement.
- Appointment of auditors within 30 days.
- Compliance with Labour Quotas and the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Trade Representative Office
A Representative Office is established in Qatar by any international company or enterprise to represent it in Qatar in order to promote its products and services, boost business, or facilitate commercial agreements between the principal the customers, such office is not allowed to carry out any trading activity nor enter into commercial transactions and deals by itself.
Key Details:
- Shareholder: Overseas Parent Company with 100% ownership.
- Timelines: Completion within 2-4 weeks (provided the investor's documents are attested and ready in Qatar, and office space is secured with a signed lease agreement).
- Restricted to the marketing of goods and services of the parent company, with no transactional capabilities.
- The General Manager (GM) requires residency and a Qatar ID.
- Office space is a mandatory requirement.
- Appointment of auditors within 30 days.
- Compliance with Labour Quotas and the Wage Protection System (WPS).
Key Details:
- Foreign ownership is allowed.
- Formation options include LLC companies, limited liability partnerships, and branches.
- QFC permits both regulated and non-regulated activities.
- There is no minimum requirement for office space, and it is not tied to visas. Building centers are authorized by QFC. Prices start at QAR 1,800 per month (equivalent to 500 USD per month).
Key Details:
- Full ownership by foreign entities
- Comprises Ras Boufantas and Umm AlHould Free Zone
- Office requirements include a minimum of 10 square meters that is linked to visas. QFZ provides various spaces, including flexi desks at USD 1,500 per desk per year (with 1 visa per space). Regular offices, warehouses, and land are also available.
Full foreign ownership is permissible for tech-based companies, research centers, and tech start-ups under a legal system based on English Common Law. A dual license, applicable to both the mainland and QSTP (Qatar Science & Technology Park), is an option. Business activities can be tailored for special occasions.
Key Details:
- Allows complete foreign ownership.
- Enables engagement in technology, education or training, IT consulting, manufacturing, and research and development.
- A minimum of 45 square meters is required as office space, and QSTP provides spaces starting from QAR 95,000 (equivalent to 26,000 USD).
Company Formation in Qatar: Types of License
- Services License
- Industrial License
- Real Estate license
- Commercial License
- Transport License
- Consulting license for Engineering Offices
- Consulting License for Technical & Economic Communication Offices
- Entrepreneur License
- Agricultural License
- Mining License
- Regional Headquarter License
- Audiovisual Media License
- License for Scientific and Technical Office
- Printing and Publishing License
- License for Serving Agents and Providing Workers Services
Why Choose SFM As Your Corporate Provider?
Additional documents may be needed at any point during the incorporation process at the discretion of the license issuing authority
** Documents must be provided for every person related to the company.
Disclaimer: Nothing on this webpage shall be construed as a contractual commitment or as a warranty. Services conditions are governed by the applicable terms and conditions.
Our Client Reviews
Our Testimonials Are Verified By Feefo, A Third Party Company
Very professional. Jane always responded very quickly with clear information.
A high-level professional service. Very responsive agent, willing to go an extra mile to complete the specific task with me as a customer.
I am very grateful for Jane’s assistance in registering „AntradienioWave Ltd“. She was responsive, helpful, and ensured the process was successfully completed. Overall, the service was smooth, and I am satisfied with the result.
However, there was some confusion regarding electronically signed documents. Initially, I was informed that such signatures were acceptable, but later I was required to provide hand-signed documents, which caused a slight delay. It would be beneficial if SFM communicated their policy on electronic signatures more clearly to avoid similar misunderstandings in the future.
Overall, I am pleased with the service and would recommend SFM for company registration, especially due to professionals like Jane.
Excellent Professionalism & Seamless Service – Highly Recommended!
Working with SFM Corporate Services has been an exceptional experience from start to finish. Their team combines deep expertise with a truly client-focused approach, making the complex process of international company formation and banking feel smooth, clear, and efficient.
From day one, I felt well-supported. Every query was addressed with clarity, and their transparency in timelines, documentation, and requirements gave me full confidence in each step. What stood out most was their professional integrity, multilingual communication, and personalized attention, even across time zones.
If you’re looking to set up a company, open a business account, or structure your operations globally — whether in Europe, the UAE, or beyond — SFM is the gold standard.
Thank you, SFM team, for your outstanding support! Special thanks to Alkesh for his continued support.
SFM is a team of professionals who can help you set up and run a business efficiently with relevant and responsive information. I highly recommend!
