If you want to open a foundation in Qatar, we advise you to discuss all matters with our local agents. They have experience in the field and can guide you regarding the necessary documents and approvals required by the relevant authorities, among other aspects. In the following lines, you can read some information about how to start a foundation in Qatar.
| Short Facts | |
| Can foreigners open a foundation in Qatar? (YES/NO) | YES |
| Approvals are granted by | Qatar Financial Center (QFC) |
| Types of foundations | Private charity under the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Activities (RACA) and QFC foundation |
| Documents | – Private Charitable Foundation Establishment Document – Articles of Association, – application form |
| Proof of headquarters in Qatar | Mandatory |
| Representative for opening a foundation in Qatar | Required. Our firm in Qatar can be appointed. |
| Governing body | Council of the Foundation |
| Application fee | Around USD 5,000 |
| No Objection Certificate solicited (YES/NO) | YES |
| Application form must comprise | – detailed purposes/objectives of the foundation, – designated location, – beneficiaries, – name, – assets, etc. |
| Can entities establish foundations in Qatar? | Yes, natural persons and companies can both register foundations in Qatar. |
| Language requirements | Charity’s documents must be in Arabic and English. |
| License for a QFC Foundation | Required |
| Fields where you can start your foundation in Qatar | – education, – culture, – sports, – social, etc. |
| Precautions | The entity must comprise the term foundation in its name. |
Table of Contents
What are the formalities for opening a foundation in Qatar?
Below are some of the procedures linked to opening a foundation in Qatar:
- An approval from the Qatar Financial Center (QFC) and other relevant authorities is required.
- Single online application is a document that must be completed with important information about the foundation in Qatar.
- Around USD 5,000 is the application fee that must be paid at the time of registration of a foundation in Qatar.
- A "Declaration and Consent" form must be signed by the creator/s of the foundation in Qatar.
- A "No Objection Certificate" from a Qatari sponsor or entity is requested.
- In the case of entities that want to open a foundation in Qatar, these should present a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation.
These are some of the formalities and procedures that must be considered for opening a foundation in Qatar. We advise you to contact our company formation agents in Qatar for complete information.
Other relevant information for opening a foundation in Qatar
If you want to set up a company in Qatar, you must take into account the legal requirements. It is also valid forfoundations in Qatar. For example, the incorporation documents must include information about the founding members, the intentions and objectives of the foundation in question, as well as details about the representative of such entity. Also, if there are assets linked to the foundation, these must be found in its relevant documents. Data on beneficiaries and registered offices are also requested. In addition, the documents must be in English and Arabic. Considering these aspects, we suggest you discuss all aspects with one of our local agents.
In which sectors of interest can foundations be registered in Qatar?
Foundations are non-profit organizations that are generally found in the social sector. Many choose to establish foundations in the fields of education, health, and other areas of interest, with a positive impact on society. The authorities in Qatar fully encourage non-profit entities, such as foundations, and as long as they have clear objectives, ensure proper governance, and respect the financial management rules, they are accepted.
Opening of a non-profit organization as a cultural center in Qatar
A non-profit organization can operate in the culture field in Qatar. First of all, it is necessary to obtain approval from the Ministry of Culture in Qatar. Here is other information about the establishment of a non-profit organization in this sector:
- a non-profit organization in Qatar can be established as a cultural center/club, based on integrity and transparency. Local and international legislation must be respected;
- persons interested in this kind of non-profit organization in Qatar must complete a standard application form, including details about the future activities and objectives. The application must be filled out in Arabic and English;
- a document containing information about the shareholders and beneficiaries must be provided to the Ministry of Culture;
- a cultural institution can be established as a non-profit organization, considering the principle of reciprocity and the legal system of Qatar;
- approvals from authorities such as the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Social Development and Family in Qatar are also required.
Considering these aspects, you can open a non-profit organization in the culture field, such as a cultural center/club/institution, etc. Our Qatari agents can provide you with detailed information about this type of entity and can guide you in all legal aspects.
Is a non-governmental organization (NGO) the same thing as a foundation in Qatar?
A non-governmental organization in Qatar can be financially supported by local and international groups of persons, is not related to the government, and is a mission-driven entity. There are situations in which these NGOs can receive funding from the government, but this depends on the objectives of the entity in question. A foundation, on the other hand, is a non-profit organization that raises funds through charitable events and is aimed at public benefit and missions. In both cases, these entities cannot carry out economic activities, and shareholders do not benefit from financial donations.
Also, NGOs and foundations are established with specific purposes, can carry out cultural programs/activities, and can be involved in various social initiatives as long as the advantage is on the side of the society/community to which they are addressed. Whether you want to establish a foundation, a non-profit organization, or an NGO, our Qatari experts can provide you with the necessary support from the very beginning. We ensure that our clients benefit from complete incorporation services and that the procedures are respected as required by law.
Economy facts in Qatar
We invite you to find out some information about the economy in Qatar if you want to open a company in Qatar or maybe even a foundation:
- The data for 2023 showed a total GDP of around USD 267 billion.
- The fiscal surplus of Qatar's GDP was approximately 14% in 2022.
- Also in 2022, there was an increase of over 53% in public sector revenues in Qatar, with a value that exceeded USD 81 billion.
In addition to company incorporation in Qatar and the establishment of a foundation, foreign clients can also benefit from other services. For example, our accountants in Qatar are at your disposal with dedicated services. On the other hand, immigration to Qatar comes to the attention of our specialists with experience in such problems. They can help you obtain residency in Qatar. Contact us right away for company formation in Qatar and other services.