Yes, Qatar allows 100% foreign ownership for companies set up in specific free zones, including the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) and Qatar Free Zones (QFZ). This policy is designed to attract international businesses and investments. or QFZ.
The AoA serves as the constitutional document for a company, outlining its management, operations, and governance. It must comply with Qatar’s Companies Law or the regulations of specific free zones like QFC or QFZ.
Key requirements include:
- A notarized and attested Articles of Association.
- Shareholders’ resolutions and Power of Attorney documents.
- Payment of initial fees, which include an application fee (QAR 300), registration fee (QAR 5,700), and an annual license fee (QAR 5,000).
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed for additional 10-year periods. Trademarks are only enforceable within Qatar.
After entering Qatar on an employment visa:
- Register your employment contract with the Labor Department.
- Complete a medical examination, fingerprinting, and an eye scan.
- Receive the Qatar ID, granting residency status.
No, QFC companies can be 100% foreign-owned without the need for a Qatari partner, offering significant flexibility for international businesses.
QFC supports a variety of financial and non-financial businesses, such as professional services, asset management, legal consultancy, and shipping. It also provides tax benefits like a flat 10% corporate tax on local profits and exemptions from personal income taxes.
Trademark registration ensures the protection of intellectual property and shields businesses from potential legal conflicts involving trademark infringements. It requires prior verification and submission of supporting documents to Qatar’s Industrial Property Protection Office.
- QFC: Streamlined application through an online portal with post-incorporation steps like opening a corporate bank account.
- QFZ: Requires document notarization and attestation from the company’s country of origin for foreign branches.