How to Start a Business in Qatar as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
Qatar has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investors and entrepreneurs in the Middle East. With a booming economy, strong infrastructure, and supportive government policies, setting up a business in Qatar is a smart move for anyone looking to expand into the Gulf region.
But how exactly do you start a business in Qatar as a foreigner? In this guide, we break down the legal structures, steps, documents, and options available for international investors to successfully launch a company in Qatar.
Can Foreigners Start a Business in Qatar?
Yes, foreigners are allowed to start businesses in Qatar—either on their own (in Free Zones or through the Qatar Financial Centre) or in partnership with a Qatari national (for mainland companies).
Thanks to reforms introduced under Qatar National Vision 2030, foreign investors now enjoy:
- 100% foreign ownership in many sectors
- Access to Qatar Free Zones and QFC with tax benefits
- Streamlined licensing and company formation processes
- A rapidly growing market with strong government support
Business Structures Available for Foreigners in Qatar
As a foreigner, you have several company formation options:
1. Qatar Free Zone Company
- 100% foreign ownership
- 0% corporate tax for up to 20 years
- No customs duties
- Full repatriation of profits
- Easy visa and licensing process
- No need for a local partner
Ideal for: Tech, logistics, e-commerce, manufacturing, and services
2. Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
- 100% foreign ownership
- Regulated by its own legal and tax framework
- Ideal for financial services, legal firms, consultancies
Ideal for: Finance, legal, accounting, consulting, fintech
3. Mainland Company (LLC)
- Requires 51% Qatari partner unless exempted
- Must lease a physical office in Qatar
- Regulated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI)
Ideal for: General trading, contracting, restaurants, retail
Steps to Start a Business in Qatar as a Foreigner
Step 1: Define Your Business Activity :
Your chosen business activity will determine the type of license you need and the authority you register with (MOCI, QFZ, or QFC).
Step 2: Choose the Right Business Structure :
Decide if a Free Zone, QFC, or Mainland setup suits your business model and industry.
Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name:
Submit your proposed business name to the relevant authority (MOCI, QFC, or QFZ) and get approval.
Step 4: Prepare Legal Documents :
You’ll need:
Passport copies of shareholders
Articles of Association (AOA)
Board resolution from the parent company (if applicable)
Power of attorney
Lease agreement (for mainland)
Note: Documents from abroad must be legalized and attested.
Step 5: Apply for Commercial Registration (CR):
This is your business’s legal identity in Qatar. It is issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry or by the respective Free Zone or QFC authority.
Step 6: Obtain a Trade License :
A Trade License allows you to legally operate in a physical space. The municipality may inspect your office before approval.
Step 7: Get a Computer Card (Establishment ID):
Issued by the Ministry of Interior, this allows you to sponsor employees and access immigration services.
Step 8: Open a Corporate Bank Account:
Use your CR, license, and other legal documents to open a business account with a Qatari bank.
Required Documents for Foreigners
Typical documents include:
- Valid passport copies of all shareholders
- Board resolution (for foreign companies)
- Articles of Association
- Power of attorney
- Trade name approval
- Office lease agreement (for mainland companies)
- Company profile (for QFZ/QFC)
Costs of Starting a Business in Qatar as a Foreigner
The total cost varies depending on:
- Business type (Mainland vs. Free Zone)
- Office space requirements
- Legal translation and attestation
- Government registration and licensing fees
- Local sponsorship fee (for mainland LLC)
At Expert Corporate Services WLL, we offer affordable, all-inclusive packages for foreign investors looking to set up their business in Qatar.
Why Choose Expert Corporate Services WLL?
We are one of Qatar’s most trusted partners for foreign company formation and offer complete support from start to finish:
Trade name reservation
Commercial registration and licensing
Free Zone and QFC setup
Local sponsorship (if required)
Bank account and visa support
PRO services and renewals
🎯 Our goal is to help you establish your business legally, quickly, and with peace of mind.
Conclusion: Expand Confidently into Qatar
Starting a business in Qatar as a foreigner is not only possible—it’s highly encouraged. With the right legal structure and local guidance, you can take advantage of one of the region’s most dynamic economies.
Whether you want to open a Free Zone company, a QFC entity, or a joint venture with a local partner, Expert Corporate Services WLL is here to simplify the process.
📞 Start your business journey in Qatar today!
Contact us for a free consultation and personalized advice.
📍 Doha, Qatar
🌐 https://expertgroupqa.com
📧 info@expertgroupqa.com
📱 +974 5177 7286 , +974 3150 2856
