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Business Setup & Company Formation Services in Qatar
At Expert Corporate Services WLL, we provide end-to-end business setup and company formation solutions in Qatar. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, SME, or multinational expanding into the region, our experienced team ensures a smooth, fast, and fully compliant setup process tailored to your business goals.
Types of Company Formation in Qatar
Limited Liability Company
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.
Free Zone Company
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.
A SMALL OVERVIEW
Understanding Company Regulatory Types in Qatar
Explore the four main business jurisdictions in Qatar and choose the one that best suits your business goals.
Qatar Mainland
Qatar Mainland companies are registered under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and are allowed to conduct business anywhere in Qatar, including directly with the local market.
Key Features:
- Requires a Qatari partner with 51% ownership (for most activities)
- Can operate freely across Qatar (no location restrictions)
- Suitable for retail, services, trading, construction, and general commercial activities
- Full access to the local market and government contracts
- Must have a physical office address in Qatar
Best For
Local trade, service providers, contractors, retail businesses
Qatar Free Zones
The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) offers a highly competitive environment for international businesses, with 100% foreign ownership and world-class infrastructure.
Key Features:
- 100% foreign ownership permitted
- Tax exemptions: No corporate or personal income tax
- No customs duties for imports/exports within the zone
- State-of-the-art facilities in Ras Bufontas and Umm Alhoul
- Focus sectors: logistics, tech, aviation, advanced manufacturing
Best For
Export-oriented businesses, logistics, tech firms, global startups
Qatar Financial Centre
QFC is an independent financial and business hub that allows international companies to establish in Qatar with 100% foreign ownership and legal system based on English common law.
Key Features:
- 100% foreign ownership
- 10% flat corporate tax (on local-source income only)
- Regulated under an independent legal and tax system
- Allows full repatriation of profits
- Strong focus on financial services, consulting, legal, and fintech sectors
Best For
Financial institutions, professional services, consultancy, legal firms
Qatar Science & Technology Park
QSTP is a research and innovation hub that promotes high-tech companies, startups, and R&D-focused institutions within Education City.
Key Features:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero income tax and zero import/export duties
- Located in Education City, close to top universities
- Focused on tech, R&D, energy, health, environment, and education
- Offers business incubation and accelerator programs
Best For
Tech startups, R&D companies, university collaborations, innovation-driven businesses
Your Trusted Partner
How Foreigners Can Start a Business in Qatar
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
What our Clients say About us
Client Testimonials
We’re Here to Help You
Ready to Start Your Business in Qatar?
We make company formation in Qatar simple, fast, and compliant. Book a free consultation with our experts today
Address
Office No. 3, Dark Brown Real Estate Building, D-Ring Road, Doha, Qatar
Email us
info@expertgroupqa.com
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you shortly)
Phone
+974 5177 7286
+974 3150 2856
(Call at anytime)
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