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Business license in Qatar

Issuing a Business License in Qatar

If you’re starting a business in Qatar, you must go through the Commercial Registration and Licenses Department to obtain the right permits.

All commercial license applications are processed through the Commercial Licenses Section of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI).

Understanding the steps for issuing commercial licenses, modifying them, or canceling them is crucial for both local and foreign investors.

This article covers what you need to know about getting a business license in Qatar, including for street vendors and e-commerce operators.

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Business License in Qatar

To legally operate a business in Qatar, you need a valid commercial license issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The procedures for issuing commercial licenses vary depending on the activity and location. The application is submitted through the Single Window platform. Here are the general requirements:

  • Leasing contract of the licensed location.
  • Building completion certificate, including utilities.
  • Civil Defense certificate (mandatory for spaces over 250 sqm).
  • Proof of identification of the responsible manager.
  • External approvals are required if the activity is regulated.
  • Approval from the real estate committee (if in a temporary villa).

Modifying a license, such as changing location or amending the manager, requires the same documentation as a new application. A “changing location” form and approval from the competent department are also necessary.

For street vendors, special criteria apply:

  • The applicant must be at least 18, medically fit, and free of criminal history.
  • Must get external authority approvals.
  • Activities must not obstruct traffic or pedestrians.
  • Equipment must meet health and environmental standards.
  • Activity must be limited to one location and one business type.

Renewing a commercial license also happens via the Single Window and requires:

  • ID of the responsible manager.
  • Civil Defense certificate (if applicable).
  • External approvals.

Routine, unannounced, and complaint-based inspections ensure compliance with license conditions.

Our lawyer in Qatar provides exceptional legal services tailored to facilitate the process of obtaining business licenses in the country. These services encompass:

  • Drafting and reviewing leasing contracts.
  • Managing license applications and renewals.
  • Representing clients during inspections or appeals.
  • Legal advice on site amendments and license modifications.
  • Handling license cancellations in compliance with MOCI requirements.

E Commerce License in Qatar

For online businesses in Qatar, you must still complete a commercial registration. The same rules apply whether your company operates physically or purely online.

Businesses must apply through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry or, if applicable, the Qatar Financial Center (QFC) or Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP).

In addition to registration:

  • You must register your domain name through the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA).
  • You must register your trademark to protect your brand via the MOCI.
  • You must ensure all eCommerce activity complies with relevant consumer protection, data privacy, and cybercrime laws.

The government requires all online merchants to follow the same licensing and inspection rules as brick-and-mortar businesses. This ensures accountability, consumer trust, and fair competition.

Our law firm’s legal services related to the e-commerce license in Qatar include:

  • eCommerce business registration with MOCI, QFC, or QSTP.
  • Trademark application and protection strategies.
  • Domain name compliance and disputes.
  • Data protection and regulatory compliance review.
  • Drafting Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies for websites.

Trade License in Qatar

A trade license is required for all trading activities in Qatar, whether importing, exporting, or selling domestically. Like the general commercial license, it’s obtained through the MOCI. The process includes:

  • Submitting a commercial license application via the Single Window.
  • Providing location documents and approvals for relevant trade activities.
  • Meeting compliance standards for safety and commercial practices.

All trading entities are subject to periodic inspections and must maintain up-to-date licensing documents.

Activities that involve importing or exporting may also need additional licenses from customs or specialized authorities.

If the trading activity is to be changed, such as shifting from retail to wholesale, formal approval from the competent department is required, along with new documentation.

Our law firm’s legal services related to the trade license in Qatar include:

  • Preparing and submitting trade license applications.
  • Legal compliance for import/export regulations.
  • Trade license renewals and modifications.
  • Handling government communications and external approvals.
  • Managing licensing disputes and violations.

FAQs about Business Licenses in Qatar

To start a business in Qatar, you must register your company with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, obtain a commercial registration, secure a business location, and apply for the appropriate commercial license.
To get a business license in Qatar, you need to submit the required documents through the Single Window platform, including a lease contract, building completion certificate, Civil Defense approval, and identification of the responsible manager.

Need help navigating Qatar’s licensing system? Our legal experts ensure that your business remains compliant, properly licensed, and protected from legal risks. Reach out today for a consultation.

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Contact Our Lawyer in Qatar