We recommend that foreign entrepreneurs who want to start a company in Qatar benefit from the support of our local specialists in matters of formalities, procedures, representation in various legal matters, etc. This page provides information about the main company formation services we offer in Qatar in 2026 to all kinds of businessmen.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Types of companies |
Limited liability company Public shareholding company Joint partnership Joint venture Limited partnership General partnership Sole proprietorship Holding company |
|
Minimum share capital for LTD Company |
QAR 200,000 |
|
Minimum number of shareholders for Limited Company |
2 |
| Time frame for the incorporation (approx.) |
3 weeks |
| Corporate tax rate |
10% |
| Dividend tax rate |
– |
| VAT rate |
– |
| Number of double taxation treaties (approx.) | 60 |
| Do you supply a registered address? | Yes |
| Local director required | No |
| Annual meeting required | Regular board meetings |
| Shelf company available | Yes |
| Electronic signature | No |
| Is accounting/annual return required? | Yes |
| Foreign-ownership allowed | 49% |
| Any tax exemptions available? | No tax on dividends |
| Tax incentives | Special tax regime for Qatar Science and Technology Park |
What is the most popular business structure in Qatar?
The most popular business entity in Qatar is the limited liability company (LLC). This structure is also known as “With Limited Liability or WLL.
What are the requirements for the formation of a company in Qatar?
Here’s how you can register an LLC in Qatar:
- QAR 30,000 as a starting capital deposited in a local corporate bank account,
- an office space is necessary for at least a one-year lease to obtain the trade license,
- at least 51% of the company has to be owned by a local citizen, except for certain activities/sectors.
What documents are required for opening an LLC in Qatar?
- passport copy in case of foreigners or Qatari ID of the authorized person,
- Articles of Association, Commercial Registration and Name Reservation Certificate,
- police clearance certificate issued by Qatari Embassy from the country of origin,
- power of Attorney for the authorized person acting on behalf of the company as a temporary manager.
- financial projections for 3 years, including sales revenues, operating expenses, cost of goods balance, number of employees, etc.
- company formation in Qatar requires an authorized person/agent with a Qatari ID who will be considered an authorized Manager.
Here is an infographic with information about setting up a business in Qatar:
What are the incorporation steps of a company (LLC) in Qatar in 2026?
- complete an application and submitted through the Single Window system provided by MOCI in Qatar,
- obtain approval from the Investment Qatar Center.
- deposit the company documents with the Ministry of Labor,
- get the Permanent Tax Card and Immigration Establishment Card in case of foreigners starting an LLC in Qatar,
- obtain the Municipality License, for which a valid legal address in Qatar is needed.
IMPORTANT! The appointed manager must obtain a work visa for Qatar through the QDI official application.
What is the minimum number of shareholders for opening an LLC in Qatar?
At least one shareholder is required to open an LLC in Qatar.
How many shareholders can set up a limited partnership by shares in Qatar?
At least 2.
Is it possible for one person to establish more than one sole proprietorship in Qatar?
No.
Can I switch from a sole trader to an LLC in Qatar?
Yes.
Is 100% ownership allowed for a business in Qatar?
Yes, company formation in mainland Qatar can be 100% foreign owned for certain types of activities, after MOCI approval. However, there is also a situation where a Qatari partner is needed with 51% ownership in the firm, in sectors like:
- Banking,
- Insurance,
- Specific manufacturing activities,
- Import & export,
- Real estate and property management, etc.
What are the costs for company formation in Qatar?
Setting up a company in Qatar might start from QAR 6,000, depending on the type of business structure selected.
What is the Commercial Registration certificate (CR) in Qatar?
The Commercial Registration (CR) is the Certificate of Incorporation for a company in Qatar.
Are there any extra costs related to company formation in Qatar?
Extra costs to consider when applying for PRO services in Qatar, including accounting, business license, and various corporate services.
Can I open a branch in Qatar?
Yes, read more details here.
What is the time frame for opening a company in Qatar?
It takes around 2-4 weeks to start a company in Qatar.
What is the taxation in Qatar?
10% is the corporate income tax in Qatar for most business activities here. 35% is the corporate tax for companies operating in the oil & gas sector in Qatar.
Ready to start your company in Qatar? Feel free to explore our dedicated services by contacting us online or by phone.