How to set up your business in Qatar Free Zone

In recent years, Qatar has transformed into a vibrant country that has state-of-the-art shopping centers, incredible stadiums, modern hotels, taller buildings, world-class infrastructure and a great thirst for even bigger things. With these advantages along with a high standard of living, Qatar is now an important business center and an ideal place to establish business.

There are few options for setting up companies in Qatar, including Free Zones, which make the decision process much easier than in any other GCC country. These free zones aim to provide a level of economic security with respect to the free flow of goods to the local market, in addition to supporting the process of economic diversification. So, if you plan to establish your business in Qatar, scroll to read about the Qatar free zones, important steps, benefits and frequently asked questions before starting the process.

Frequently asked questions about free zones in Qatar

The following questions and answers are mentioned on the QSTP website to provide additional information on the requirements and additional benefits of establishing a free zone company in Qatar.

What is a free zone?

Free zones are designated areas that are geographically located in the territory of a country but are considered outside the country for customs purposes. Companies operating in Free Zones are exempt from taxes, customs regulations and regulations to which they would otherwise be subject.

I am planning to establish my company in a free zone of Qatar, what factors should I take into account?

A series of considerations must be taken into account when setting up any business, including budget, type of company and location. The initial assessment of potential tenants will be based on their level of investment in the specified permitted activities. The ongoing measures that will be applied to determine that the "predominant activities" of the tenant will be agreed upon before the issuance of each license on a case-by-case basis. By way of illustration, such measures may include:

The number of people receiving education and / or training at the Licensee's premises in QSTP.

What benefits does the QSTP free zone offer?

• 100% ownership of a foreign company
• 100% exemption from corporate tax
• 100% exemption from personal income tax
• 100% import and export tax exemption
• 100% repatriation of capital and earnings
• No foreign currency restrictions.
• Quick formation of the company.

What are the fees associated with company formation, branch registration and licenses?

Currently, there are no fees associated with company formation, branch registration and licensing.

What types of companies can be formed in the Free Zone?

Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Local or foreign company branch

What is the minimum capital required to establish a company in the Free Zone?

No minimum capital is required to register a branch of a local or foreign company. The minimum capital to establish Limited Liability Companies is QR 200,000 or US $ 55,000.

Do I have to rent an office to obtain a free zone license?

Yes, it is required to rent an office in the Free Zones to obtain this License

Can I buy property and real estate in the Free Zone?

No. All properties and real estate in the Free Zones are offered only on a lease basis.

What types of offices are available for rent in the Free Zone?

Offices fully furnished in blocks of 45 square meters.