Register Company in Qatar

Fionza Consultants provides extensive assistance to global clients seeking to register a company in Qatar. Our services cover Qatar company formation, local nominee director services, Qatar corporate bank account setup, business visa applications, and trade license processing. Rely on Fionza Consultants as your all-in-one solution for launching your business activities in Qatar with complete legal compliance. Optimize your business entry into Qatar with our comprehensive support services.

Qatar

Company Registration – 4 Weeks
Local Director? – Yes
Bank Account Opening – 4 Weeks
Travel Required – No

Register company in Qatar

Experience a seamless company registration in Qatar with Fionza Consultants at the helm. Let us handle the intricate details, allowing you to concentrate on essential aspects of your business.

Benefit from our streamlined approach, where our expert team ensures a smooth journey from start to finish in the company registration process in Qatar. We are committed to operationalizing your company within the specified timeframe.

Our comprehensive service package covers all your needs for new company formation in Qatar:

Qatar company registration
Provision of local nominee director and shareholder
Company secretary and registered address services
Opening local or international corporate bank accounts
Trade license and tax application assistance
Qatar business visa application support
Annual accounting and tax services

Choose Fionza Consultants for a seamless and efficient process, positioning your company for success in Qatar. Optimize your company’s entry into the Qatari market with our comprehensive support services.

Introduction to register company in Qatar

Qatar, officially known as the State of Qatar, has become a highly sought-after jurisdiction for investors in recent years. Despite its compact size, the country has rapidly emerged as a growing economic force in the Gulf Region, offering a robust economy and lucrative business opportunities.

As one of the wealthiest nations globally, Qatar holds the top position in terms of GDP per capita based on Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) calculations. The economy is primarily driven by the pillars of petroleum and natural gas.

Foreign investors are attracted to Qatar owing to its pro-foreign investment policies and attractive financial incentives. The Qatari government extends enticing benefits, including tax exemptions in Qatar Free Zones, full repatriation of profits, and substantial economic incentives amounting to QAR 75 billion. With a supportive government and a business-friendly environment, Qatar stands out as an ideal destination for new foreign business owners looking to establish their enterprises. Optimize your investment strategy by tapping into Qatar’s flourishing economy and investor-friendly policies.

How long to register a company in Qatar?

Rely on Fionza Consultants for a swift and efficient company registration process in Qatar, typically completed within 8 weeks. Once we receive the due diligence documents for directors and shareholders, our team conducts a thorough search for your preferred company name’s availability in the Companies Registry, eliminating the need for travel.

Following the seamless new company formation in Qatar, you’ll receive comprehensive details, including your company number and certificate of incorporation. Within the next 4 weeks, Fionza Consultants expedite the opening of a Qatar corporate bank account for your business entity. This streamlined process allows you to anticipate commencing operations and issuing invoices under your Qatar company within just 12 weeks of engaging our services.

For those eager to delve deeper into the process, Fionza Consultants has thoughtfully prepared a step-by-step guide elucidating all the necessary stages for successful company registration in Qatar. Optimize your business entry into Qatar with our efficient and transparent registration process.

Types of companies in Qatar

Choosing the right business structure is pivotal for foreign company registration in Qatar, aligning with your business needs and long-term objectives. Fionza Consultants, upon engagement, thoroughly understands your business requirements and recommends the optimal structure for your new company formation in Qatar.

Joint Venture: In sectors where full foreign ownership isn’t permitted, joint ventures offer a solution. Typically, Qatari partners hold 51%, and foreign investors hold 49%. Corporate tax is a low 10%, and a minimum paid-up capital of QAR 200,000 is required.
Free Zone Company: Operating in Qatar’s free zones offers tax exemptions for 20 years. No corporate tax and individual income taxes apply, with a mandatory annual audit. A minimum paid-up capital of QAR 200,000 is required. Full foreign ownership is allowed, and no local shareholder is necessary.
Full Foreign-Owned Company: Under the new foreign investment law, most sectors allow full ownership with profits repatriation. Corporate tax is 10%, and a minimum paid-up capital of QAR 200,000 is needed. Approval from the Ministry of Business and Trade is required.
Branch: Branch offices allow full foreign ownership, subjected to a 10% corporate tax. A minimum paid-up capital of QAR 200,000 is required. Ministry of Business and Trade approval is necessary, and the branch is linked to the parent company’s contract.

Understanding these options helps you make informed decisions for your Qatar business setup. Fionza Consultants facilitates this process seamlessly, ensuring compliance and efficiency throughout. Choose the optimal business structure with our expert guidance for a successful company registration in Qatar.

How to register company in Qatar

With the advent of Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Single Window initiative, the company registration process in Qatar has been streamlined, allowing for efficient remote execution. The Single Window portal functions as an online platform, empowering investors to register businesses, apply for necessary licenses, and make electronic fee payments. Here’s a concise overview of the key steps involved in new company formation in Qatar:

Trade Name Search:
- Confirm the uniqueness and availability of your chosen company name through the Public Register or the Trade Name Search function in the Single Window portal.
- The trade name should be distinctive, avoiding similarities with existing trademarks and must be in English and Arabic.
- An additional fee applies for the use of Latin characters in the Arabic name.
Reservation of Trade Name:
- Create an investor account on the Single Window portal and submit the application for the reservation of the trade name.
- If the trade name is a trademark, provide a Franchise or License for trademark use.
- Reservation is initially free for 3 days; for longer periods (up to 180 days), a fee is applicable.
Opening of Bank Account:
- Obtain a letter from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry addressed to a Qatar bank, requesting permission to open a corporate bank account.
- Deposit the required initial capital into the bank account to activate the non-resident account.
Preparation of Articles of Association:
- Draft the Articles of Association, including essential details such as company name, purpose, shareholder information, and initial capital.
- Specific requirements vary for different business entities; for example, Limited Liability Companies (LLC) have additional criteria.
Commercial Registration of Company:
- Utilize the Single Window portal to register the company by completing the relevant application form.
- Additional documents are needed based on the company type and nature of business activities.
- The Comprehensive Establishment service in the portal covers commercial permit issuance, regulatory permits, and tax card.
Preparation of Company Stamp:
- Obtain an official company stamp, necessary for obtaining the company computer card (EID) and official paperwork.
- Third-party suppliers can assist in acquiring the company stamp.

Fionza Consultants simplifies this process, ensuring a smooth and compliant new company formation experience in Qatar. Facilitate your entry into the Qatari market with our expert guidance and support.

Qatar Trade License

Securing a Qatar Trade License is a pivotal authorization granting business owners the right to operate within the geographical jurisdiction of the Qatari government. Issued by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, this license enables businesses to commence operations and establish office space. Fionza Consultants plays a crucial role in facilitating the acquisition of your Qatar Trade License as part of the comprehensive company registration process. Trust us to guide you through the necessary steps to secure this essential license for your business endeavors in Qatar. Enhance your market entry with our expert assistance in obtaining the vital Qatar Trade License.

Qatar Residence Visa

After the application for work permits for foreign employees, the subsequent step involves applying for Qatar residence visas. Various Qatar business visas cater to foreign employees, each serving specific purposes:

Qatar Business Visa:
- Allows foreign workers and expatriates to engage in business activities within Qatar.
- Validity period of up to three months.
Qatar Family Residence Visa (Sponsor Visa):
- Designed for the direct relatives of foreign workers and expatriates.
- Eligibility requires a minimum monthly income of USD$2,780 and a minimum of six months of employment with a Qatar-based company.
Qatar Investor Visa:
- Tailored for foreign investors and expatriates investing in business ventures within Qatar.
- Permits residence in Qatar, even if the individual is not employed by a Qatari company.

For employees seeking Qatar Business Visa and Family Residence Visa, the application process is facilitated through their employers. Fionza Consultants ensures a smooth and efficient process for obtaining the necessary visas, enabling foreign workers to engage in business activities or have their direct relatives reside in Qatar. Trust us to guide you through the intricacies of the visa application process for a seamless experience. Optimize your Qatar business activities with our expert assistance in securing essential visas.

Corporate Tax in Qatar

Qatar operates under a territorial taxation system, requiring business entities to pay corporate taxes, even if they are not incorporated in Qatar, as long as they generate income from the country.

Companies based in Qatar are mandated to pay corporate income tax at a fixed rate of 10% on any income derived from Qatar. This includes income from activities conducted in Qatar, contracts executed within the country, income from Qatar real estate, and income from shares of resident companies in Qatar.

It’s crucial to note that companies are exempt from corporate tax if they do not generate any income from Qatar. However, companies that have entered into a special agreement with the Qatari government may be subject to a different tax rate.

Special arrangements are in place for companies in the petroleum and petrochemicals industry, where a minimum corporate income tax rate of 35% is imposed on income derived from these sectors.

Fionza Consultants ensures businesses are well-informed and compliant with Qatar’s tax regulations, offering expert guidance on taxation matters for a seamless and legally sound business operation in the country. Trust us to provide the necessary expertise for navigating Qatar’s tax landscape and ensuring your business is in compliance with all relevant regulations.

Free Trade Zone in Qatar

Established in 2018 to enhance Qatar’s competitive position in the Middle East, the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) governs two Free Trade Zones in the country. These zones aim to streamline business activities by offering a conducive environment, fostering long-term partnerships, providing operational spaces, and presenting various incentives. The primary sectors of focus within the Qatar Free Zones are emerging technologies, logistics, industry, and maritime sectors. The designated free zones include:

Ras Bufontas Free Zone:
- Conveniently located adjacent to Hamad International Airport (HIA), ensuring easy air transportation access and reduced customs processing times.
- Integrated with advanced technological systems such as a green irrigation control system, water conservation methods, and cutting-edge technologies like 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and AI-based services.
- Key focus areas encompass emerging tech, aviation, business, and light manufacturing.
Umm Alhoul Free Zone:
- Strategically positioned next to Hamad Port, the newest greenfield deep seaport globally, providing direct access to sea freight and shipping routes.
- An integrated hub for various maritime activities and services, including ocean vessel building and repair, boat brokerage, ship provisions supply, and maritime research.
- Key focus areas include heavy manufacturing, logistics hub, industrial sectors, downstream petrochemical, emerging tech, and maritime industries and services in Qatar.

Fionza Consultants stand ready to guide you on the suitability of setting up your company in a Qatar Free Zone based on your business structure. Our expert advice ensures that you make informed decisions, optimizing the benefits offered by the Qatar Free Zones for the success of your business. Trust us to provide strategic insights and assistance for a successful business setup in Qatar Free Zones.

Advantages of choosing to register company in Qatar

Qatar provides a welcoming and advantageous environment for foreign investors, featuring numerous incentives supporting seamless business integration into the Qatari economy. Before initiating new company formation in Qatar, understanding the jurisdiction’s business landscape is crucial for ensuring a secure and legally compliant operation aligning with long-term goals.

Political:

Qatar boasts a stable political environment and robust economic performance, evident in its highest GDP per capita derived from the PPP method.
Ranked 30th out of 180 countries in the Global Corruptions Perceptions Index (CPI), Qatar demonstrates a low corruption rate, instilling confidence in foreign investors.
The Qatari government’s commendable leadership is highlighted by providing financial and economic incentives of QAR 75 billion during the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing reliability and business confidence.

Economic:

Corporations in Qatar benefit from a low corporate tax rate of 10%, one of the world’s lowest. Entities wholly owned by Qatari and GCC nationals are exempt from corporate income tax (CIT).
Qatar is ranked 29th globally in the Global Competitiveness Report and demonstrates steady growth, reflected in consistent improvement in the Global Competitiveness indicator.

Social:

Qatar boasts a high literacy rate of approximately 93%, providing foreign investors access to a highly skilled and efficient labor force.

Technological:

Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in Qatar, such as Qatar Science & Technology Park and Finance Centre, offer relaxed business and trade laws to stimulate foreign direct investments.
The establishment of Free Zones for Information Technology sectors and the relaxation of foreign investment laws have led to an increase in Financial Technological Firms in Qatar.

Legal:

Qatar’s authorities have eased laws on foreign investments, allowing full foreign ownership of a corporation’s share capital in most sectors.
Free trade zones, such as Ras Bufontas Free Zone and Umm AlHoul Free Zone, exempt foreign business owners from import duties and customs intervention.

Environmental:

Qatar ranks 32nd globally in the Environment Performance Index, showcasing its commitment to balancing industrial growth and environmental preservation.

Fionza Consultants ensures that foreign investors are well-informed about the myriad benefits Qatar offers, facilitating a seamless and legally compliant business setup in the country. Trust us to provide expert guidance for a successful business venture in Qatar. Optimize your market entry with our comprehensive knowledge and support.

Disadvantages of choosing to register company in Qatar

The Qatari government imposes restrictions on full ownership of a company’s share capital in specific business sectors unless otherwise approved. In such cases, foreign investors are required to collaborate with at least one Qatari local, who must hold a minimum of 51% of the share capital.

Despite a population of only 2.78 million, predominantly comprised of foreign workers (constituting approximately 88% of the population), certain businesses may face limited opportunities in the domestic market.

It’s crucial to note that Qatar’s legal system mandates contracts to be in Arabic for validity in Qatari courts, indicating the existence of a language barrier for foreign investors.

For more information on how to register a company in Qatar and navigate these considerations, please contact us. Our team of experts will respond within the next 24 hours, providing valuable insights and guidance tailored to your business needs. Optimize your entry into the Qatari market by leveraging our expertise and personalized support.

FAQ

How to do business in Qatar?

To set up a business in Qatar, you will have to first determine the business entity that you wish to incorporate in Qatar. There are a few types of company which you can set up in Qatar, namely a Joint Venture, Free Zone Company, Full Foreign-owned company and Branch. To do business in Qatar, you can either choose to register a company in Qatar or buy a business in Qatar.

Fionza Consultants will advise you on the business entity based on your business structure and long-term goals.

Which business is best in Qatar?

There are many profitable sectors in Qatar besides the oil and gas sector. Specifically, the Qatar’s manufacturing sector is one of the crucial contributors to Qatar’s economy. Hence, it may be ideal to set up a business in the manufacturing sector due to the immense support provided by the Qatari authorities who wishes to diversify the nation’s economy away from the oil industry.

Qatar’s Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Industry are also amongst the fast-growing business sectors in Qatar. With Special Economic Zones such as the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), there is an abundance of business opportunities for foreign investors in the Finance industry. Furthermore, the QFC tax regime provides business owners with lucrative benefits such as Treaty Reliefs from the Double Taxation Agreements with over 60 countries.

Another industry to consider is the Building and Construction Industry which has received an increase in government funding in recent years. The Qatari government aims to improve and develop the nation’s infrastructure as part of the country’s build-up towards the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Hence, setting up a business in this sector can give you greater leverage on the increase in interest and government support in the Building and Construction business sector.

How can I register a company in Qatar?

You can register your company in Qatar through the Single Window portal managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Qatar. The Single Window portal is an online platform that allows investors to register their business, apply for the required licenses and pay fees electronically.

How can I register my small business in Qatar?

To register your small business in Qatar, you can utilise the Comprehensive Establishment service in the Single Window portal. The service provider will advise you on the documents required for the registration of your business based on the structure of your business.

How do I register a foreign company in Qatar?

First, you will have to search for the availability of your company name and reserve the trade name through the Qatar Single Window portal.

Once you have reserved your trade name, you can proceed to open a corporate bank account and prepare the Articles of Association based on the type of business entity formed.

Finally, you can proceed with the registration of company through the Single Window portal by filling up the application form and submitting the relevant documents.

Fionza Consultants has come up with a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate a Qatar company.

How much does it cost to register a company in Qatar?

The engagement fee depends on the services you require from Fionza Consultants. Prior to each engagement, our team will fully understand your business needs and inform you of the exact services you require.

For example, you may not require our bank account opening services if you already have a bank account with some banks.

Fionza Consultants’ fees include business name reservation charges, fees to register company in Qatar, and tax registration costs.

Can a foreigner start a business in Qatar?

Yes, starting a business in Qatar as a foreigner is allowed. Most sectors allow foreigners to wholly own a company in Qatar. However, there are some specific sectors such as banking, insurance, and commercial agencies, where foreign ownership is limited to 49%.

What is Qatar Free Zone?

The Qatar Free Zone is a Free Trade Zone established by the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA). Currently, there are two Free Zones in Qatar: Ras Bufontas Free Zone and Umm Alhoul Free Zone. The Free Zones in Qatar were established with the purpose to facilitate business activities through the provision of a favourable business environment, long-term partnerships, leasing of relevant operational spaces, tax benefits and other incentives.

Register Company in Qatar