International business company formation in Qatar is legally possible under Law No. (1) of 2019, which permits foreign investors to own up to 100% of a company in most sectors.
To open a business in Qatar, foreign investors must follow the procedures defined by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
With the guidance of company formation specialists in Qatar, entrepreneurs can complete incorporation smoothly in 2025, while enjoying protections and incentives.
Contact our expert lawyers & legal Consultants in Qatar. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
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International Business Company Formation in Qatar
Non-Qatari investors may apply for up to 100% ownership in companies, subject to approval and excluding restricted sectors (banks, insurance, and commercial agencies unless exceptions are granted by the Council of Ministers).
If investing in a public shareholding company, a foreign investor may own up to 49% of shares. Ownership above this threshold requires approval from the Council of Ministers based on a proposal from the Minister.
Qatar company formation is a straightforward process when foreign investors in Qatar work with experienced company formation specialists to open a business successfully.
How can I open a business in Qatar as a foreign investor?
The process of opening a business in Qatar as a foreign investor follows legal steps outlined in Law No. (1) of 2019:
- Submit an application
File an application with the Competent Department of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The application must be on the official form and include supporting documents, along with the prescribed fees. - Await Ministry review
The Competent Department has 15 days to issue a decision after receiving complete documentation. If no response is given within this period, the application is considered rejected. - Appeal if necessary
If the application is rejected or no decision is made within the legal timeframe, the investor may appeal to the Minister of Commerce and Industry within 15 days. The Minister has 30 days to decide. Lack of response is considered a final rejection. - Register the company
Once approved, the company must be entered into the Commercial Register. This registration legally establishes the company. - Obtain a commercial license
A commercial license is required to operate. For branch offices, the license must be linked to a government or public sector contract.
Following these steps ensures that a foreign investor can legally establish a business in Qatar.
What services do company formation specialists in Qatar provide?
Company formation specialists in Qatar simplify the incorporation process and ensure compliance with local laws. Their services typically include:
- Legal entity advice
They guide investors on the right type of company—such as LLCs, branches, or joint ventures—based on sector restrictions and ownership rules. - Document preparation and submission
Specialists draft and submit incorporation documents, secure approvals, and ensure applications meet all Ministry requirements to avoid rejection. - Commercial registration and licensing
They handle registration with the Commercial Register and obtain commercial licenses, ensuring legal operation from the start. - Compliance management
Specialists oversee compliance with tax registration, labor law requirements, and regulatory filings, preventing penalties and license cancellations. - Banking and local support
They assist with corporate bank accounts and introduce trusted local partners where partial Qatari ownership is required.
Our law firm provides specialized legal services tailored to foreign investors, including:
- Drafting incorporation and shareholder agreements under Qatari law.
- Managing registration and licensing with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Advising on compliance with labor, tax, and investment regulations.
- Structuring joint ventures and partnerships to protect foreign ownership rights.
- Dispute resolution and arbitration services for cross-border investment conflicts.
Learn about Limited Liability Company (LLC). If you are establishing an online business, read about Online Company Registration in Qatar.
FAQs about International Business Formation in Qatar
With professional legal support, foreign investors can confidently pursue international business company formation in Qatar and operate in full compliance with the law.
Contact our lawyers in Qatar and get expert help. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
A law graduate specializes in translating complex legal topics into clear and actionable insights, empowering individuals and businesses to navigate Qatar’s multifaceted legal landscape.