Qatar

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

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).