Free Guide to Forming a Company in Qatar (1)

1. How can I form a company in Qatar? Company formation in Qatar is a relatively straightforward process that typically involves choosing a company name, depositing the minimum share capital, preparing the Articles of Association, obtaining a trade licence, and registering the company with the Ministry of Economy and Commerce. There are two main types of companies that can be formed in Qatar: Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and Free Zone Companies. LLCs are the most common type of company in Qatar and offer limited liability protection to their shareholders. Free zone companies are companies that are registered in a special economic zone and offer a number of benefits, including tax breaks and exemptions. Why Choose Qatar to Start a Business ? Qatar opens up enormous business opportunities, thus it attracts many investors to establish their businesses. There are many benefits in starting a business in Qatar. Some of them are : ● Economic Stability: Qatar has a strong and diversified economy with a large sovereign wealth fund which provides a stable business environment. This economic Stability attracts many investors. ● Strategic Location: Qatar is strategically located in the Middle East, providing easy access to markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as well as the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. ● Free trade zones: Qatar has several free trade zones, such as the Qatar Science & Technology Park and the Qatar Financial Centre, which offer tax and other incentives to businesses operating within them. ● Government support: The Qatari government is actively promoting foreign investment and has implemented several initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

2. ● Low corporate tax rate: Qatar has a low corporate tax rate of 10%, which is one of the lowest in the Middle East. ● Skilled workforce: Qatar has a large expat population, including a significant number of highly educated and skilled professionals, which can provide a ready pool of talent for businesses. ● Strong infrastructure: Qatar has a well-developed infrastructure, including a modern transportation network, reliable power and water supply, and telecommunication Legal Company Structures in Qatar Qatar offers a wide variety of possibilities for those looking to set up a company. The type of company you create depends on the nature of your business, goals, and the size of investment. These include: 1. Limited liability Company (LLC): LLC is the most common and popular business structure in Qatar that offers limited liability protection for the owners, otherwise known as shareholders. This means that the shareholders are not held personally responsible for the business’s debts and obligations. Profits and losses are shared among the shareholders according to their ownership percentage. 2. Sole proprietorship: This business structures is most suitable for small business with only one Owner. It is easy to establish and manage. The owner is held personally liable for the business debts and obligations.

3. 3. Partnership: This business structure allows two or more individuals to jointly own and operate a business. The partners are held liable for the business’s debts and obligations. 4. Public Shareholding Company: This company structure is best for the businesses which are planning to go public and issue shares to the public. 5. Branch Office: A foreign company can set up a branch office in Qatar, but it must be fully owned by the parent company and must carry the same name. The branch office must be registered with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and is subject to the laws of Qatar. 6. Free Zone Company: A business can be established in one of Qatar’s free zones, which are areas designated by the government for foreign investment. These companies are granted tax exemptions and other benefits, but they can only conduct business within the free zone Foreign Ownership: Foreign investors can own up to 100% of the shares in specific sectors. These sectors include agriculture, industry, health, education, tourism, and information technology. Excluding the sectors mentioned above, Qatari nationals must hold at least 51% of the shares, while the remaining 49% can be held by foreign investors. Company Name: Select a unique and suitable name for your company. It should not violate any regulations or trademarks and should reflect the nature of your business.

4. Share Capital: The LLC structure requires a minimum share capital of QAR 200,000 (approximately USD 54,900). However, this requirement may vary depending on the nature of the business and the involvement of government entities. Local Sponsorship: Non-Qatari entities intending to establish an LLC or a branch office require a Qatari national or a Qatari-owned company as a local sponsor. The sponsor's role is typically limited to fulfilling legal requirements and may not be involved in the business operations. Business Plan: Prepare a comprehensive business plan outlining your company's objectives, market analysis, financial projections, and strategies for success. This plan may be required for various approvals and permits. Registration Process: Reserve the company name: Submit an application to MOCI to reserve your chosen company name. Commercial Registration: After obtaining the necessary approvals, apply for commercial registration with the MOCI to receive the commercial registration certificate. Tax Registration: Register with the General Tax Authority to fulfil tax obligations. Office Space: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to lease appropriate office space in Qatar.

5. Municipality Approvals: Depending on the business activities, additional approvals may be required from relevant municipalities or government agencies. Immigration and Labor: Companies must comply with immigration and labour regulations, including obtaining work permits and residence visas for their employees. It's important to note that the process and requirements for company formation in Qatar may vary depending on the specific business activities, ownership structure, and government policies at the time of application. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with legal and business experts or seek professional assistance to ensure compliance with all regulations and requirements. About us Ayam group, a highly experienced and expertised entity in Qatar, specialises in company incorporation and formation services. With strong industry partnerships and tailored approaches to clients' needs, we boast over 500 satisfied customers. Our dedicated team also offers additional services like legal attestation, trademark registration, and English translation. Trust Ayam group to simplify the complexities of business formation in Qatar and embark on a successful entrepreneurial journey.