Buying property in Qatar for foreigners is allowed in designated freehold and leasehold zones, such as The Pearl, Lusail, and West Bay, under Law No. 16 of 2018 and Cabinet Decision No. 28 of 2020.
This article examines the legal framework governing non-Qatari ownership of real estate in 2025 and the legal services available to assist non-Qatari buyers.
Whether you’re considering buying property for investment or residency purposes, this article offers essential guidance on dealing with Qatar’s property laws and understanding the benefits of ownership.
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Table of Contents
Non-Qatari Ownership of Real Estate
Where can non-Qataris legally own property in Qatar, and under which laws is this permitted?
According to Law No. 16 of 2018 and Decision No. 28 of 2020, non-Qataris can own freehold and usufruct properties (99-year leasehold) in specific zones across Qatar.
There are 25 designated areas, with nine allowing freehold ownership, including Lusail, The Pearl, and West Bay.
These regulations provide flexibility, enabling ownership of offices, shops, residential units within complexes, and detached homes in commercial spaces.
To encourage investment, Qatar grants residency permits to property buyers. Buyers receive residency without a sponsor if the property’s value exceeds QAR 730,000.
Properties worth over QAR 3.65 million offer additional benefits akin to those of permanent residents, such as healthcare and education access.
Qatar Flat Ownership Laws
What law lets non-Qataris own flats, and what rights do they get?
For non-Qataris seeking flat ownership, the key law is Law No. 16 of 2018, supported by Cabinet Resolution No. 28 of 2020. This allows the purchase of flats in designated freehold areas like The Pearl, Lusail, and Al Dafna.
Buyers of flats within these areas enjoy full ownership rights, including the ability to sell, inherit, and mortgage the property.
Additionally, purchasers of flats valued above QAR 730,000 are eligible for residency permits, while those buying flats worth over QAR 3.65 million qualify for permanent residency benefits.
Legal Services for non-Qataris in dealing with real estate laws
Need help navigating Qatar’s property laws as a foreign buyer? What legal services can a specialized real estate lawyer in Qatar provide?
Our lawyer in Qatar offers specialized legal services to assist in non-Qatari ownership of real estate.
These services include advising on compliance with property laws, handling transactions for property purchases or leases, and managing legal disputes related to ownership.
The firm also provides services for property registration, assisting with the Ministry of Justice’s electronic registration system.
Furthermore, they help clients obtain the necessary documentation for residency linked to property ownership and offer legal representation in cases involving real estate inheritance.
Get more services from top Lawyers Specializing in Real Estate Law in Qatar.
FAQs about Foreign Ownership of Real Estate in Qatar
Qatar’s real estate laws now offer non-Qataris a clear path to property ownership in prime areas like The Pearl and Lusail.
With residency benefits tied to investment and legal support readily available, buying property in Qatar is more accessible and secure for foreign investors than ever before.
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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.