Company Formation in Qatar
Company registration at low cost
Thinking about starting a business in Qatar? With its growing economy, strategic Gulf location, and investor-friendly policies, Qatar is one of the best destinations in the Middle East for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re an individual investor or an international company, company formation in Qatar has become easier, faster, and more cost-effective than ever before.
At Expert Corporate Services WLL, we specialize in business setup in Qatar, helping clients with every step — from securing trade licenses and commercial registration to opening bank accounts and obtaining investor visas. With 10+ years of experience, our team ensures a smooth, compliant, and stress-free process so you can focus on growing your business.
Trusted by 20+ Companies in Qatar
Types of Company Formation in Qatar
An LLC is the most common business structure in Qatar. It requires at least two and up to fifty shareholders and limits liability to the extent of capital invested.
- A Qatari partner must hold at least 51% ownership, while the foreign partner can own up to 49%.
- Ideal for most commercial and service activities.
- Requires a minimum share capital (subject to activity and MOIC requirements).
Joint Venture Company
A Joint Venture (JV) is a contractual partnership between two or more parties, typically without creating a separate legal entity.
- Common for project-based collaborations.
- One party must be a Qatari national or company.
- Not publicly registered, and liability remains with the partners.
Public Shareholding Company
Also known as a Joint Stock Company, this structure is suited for large-scale businesses looking to raise capital through public investors.
- Requires a minimum of 5 shareholders.
- Minimum capital: QAR 10 million (for public offering).
- Can list on the Qatar Stock Exchange.
- Governed by strict regulations and public reporting standards.
Single Person Company
A Single Person Company allows a single individual or entity to fully own and operate the business.
- 100% ownership is allowed for Qatari nationals or GCC nationals.
- Liability is limited to the company’s assets.
- Best for small businesses and individual entrepreneurs.
Branch Office
A Branch Office is an extension of a foreign company, fully owned by the parent entity and allowed to operate in Qatar.
- Must carry out contracted work with a Qatari government or quasi-government entity.
- No local partner required, but subject to Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) approval.
- Can invoice and conduct business in Qatar under the foreign company's name.
Representative Office
A Representative Office allows foreign companies to promote and market their products/services in Qatar but cannot conduct direct commercial activities.
- No revenue generation, sales, or contracts permitted.
- Serves as a liaison office only.
- No local partner required, but registration with MOCI is mandatory.
Companies registered in Qatar Free Zones enjoy 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and repatriation of profits.
- Ideal for international companies focusing on logistics, tech, industrial, or export-based operations.
- Requires approval from QFZA and must operate within designated zones (e.g., Ras Bufontas, Umm Alhoul).
- Offers access to world-class infrastructure and streamlined government support.
Joint Partnership Company
A Joint Partnership, also known as a General Partnership, is a business structure formed between two or more individuals or entities who agree to jointly conduct commercial activities in Qatar.
- All partners are jointly and personally liable for the company's debts and obligations.
- The partnership must include at least one Qatari partner with full legal liability.
- The business operates under a shared trade license and can engage in a wide range of commercial activities.
Need Help Choosing the Right Entity?
Our experts at Expert Corporate Services WLL will help you select and form the most suitable structure based on your goals, business activity, and investment plan.
Choosing the Right Legal Structure in Qatar
| Company Type | Ownership | Taxes | Best For | Setup Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mainland (LLC) | Up to 49% foreign (51% Qatari partner required in some cases) | 10% corporate tax | Retail, trading, contracting, services | 3–4 weeks |
| Free Zone (QFZA) | 100% foreign ownership | 0% corporate & personal tax | Import/export, logistics, international business | 2–3 weeks |
| Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) | 100% ownership | 10% corporate tax (local income) | Finance, consulting, professional services | 3–4 weeks |
| Qatar Science & Tech Park (QSTP) | 100% ownership | 0% tax, incentives | Tech, R&D, innovation startups | 2–3 weeks |
Qatar offers a thriving, business-friendly environment for foreign investors and entrepreneurs, with world-class infrastructure, tax benefits, and strategic access to regional and global markets. At Expert Corporate Services WLL, we provide complete business setup solutions tailored to the needs of international clients.
Step - 01
Choose the right business structure for your needs
Step - 02
Get company name approval from MOCI.
Step - 03
Register your company with MOCI using required documents.
Step - 04
Get permits for residence and work from the government
Step - 05
Get Commercial Registration
Step - 06
Get office space for your business
Step - 07
Set up a bank account for your business
Step - 08
Start your company operations smoothly
The cost of business setup in Qatar depends on the type of company and licenses. On average:
- Mainland Company: QAR 15,000 – QAR 30,000 (depending on activity)
- Free Zone Company: Starting from QAR 12,000 (with office packages)
- QFC Company: QAR 20,000+ (professional services)
Tip: Always budget for office rent, visa fees, and government charges in addition to registration.
- 10+ years of experience in company formation in Qatar
- End-to-end services: from licenses to PRO & translation support
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- Multilingual team familiar with local laws & business culture
- Dedicated consultant for each client
Call us today or book a free consultation to start your business in Qatar with confidence.
- Strategic Location and Global Connectivity : Company formation in Qatar gives investors a strong base in the Middle East. When you start a business in Qatar, you gain access to markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for international trade.
- Tax Advantages and Incentives : One of the biggest benefits of Qatar company registration is the tax-friendly environment. Businesses enjoy low corporate tax rates, and in many Qatar free zones, companies are exempt from customs duties and receive additional incentives.
- 100% Foreign Ownership in Free Zones : Foreign investors often ask if they can fully own a company in Qatar. The answer is yes—Qatar business setup services in special economic zones allow for 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local partner in many sectors.
- Growing Economy and Business Opportunities : With rapid growth in energy, construction, real estate, and finance, company formation in Qatar opens doors to countless opportunities. The government’s Vision 2030 strategy makes starting a business in Qatar even more profitable for entrepreneurs.
Why Partner with Expert Corporate Services WLL?
Client Testimonials
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in Free Zones and QFC, foreigners can have 100% ownership. On the mainland, certain activities may still require a Qatari partner.
Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on company type and approvals.
Free Zone packages (with shared office spaces) are often the most cost-effective option.
Yes, most structures require a registered office. Free Zones offer flexible office packages.
Passport copies of shareholders
Business plan / activity details
Articles of Association & Memorandum
Proof of office address
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Get Started with Company Formation in Qatar
Ready to Start Your Business in Qatar?
Don’t let paperwork slow you down. Partner with Expert Corporate Services WLL and launch your business in Qatar with confidence.
Address
Office No. 3, Dark Brown Real Estate Building, D-Ring Road, Doha, Qatar
Email us
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Phone
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Expert Corporate Services WLL made the business setup process in Qatar incredibly smooth. Their team handled everything—from documentation to licensing—with professionalism and speed. I was able to focus on building my company while they took care of the rest. Highly recommended for foreign investors!
Ahmed Malik Founder