How to Do Business in Qatar Qatar offers a wide range of opportunities for international companies looking to expand into the MENA region and to establish their presence in Qatar. The country offers a stable institutional framework, strong economic fundamentals, and future-ready infrastructure that enable a business-friendly climate for foreign investors or new businesses. Overview Learn More Tips Along the Way The work environment in businesses in Qatar is usually more formal, titles are important, the hierarchy is evident and business attire is often required. Hierarchy and respect for authority is highly valued and decision-making often follows a top-down approach, with seniority and rank playing significant roles in business interactions. Doing business in Qatar may require patience and adaptability to navigate bureaucratic processes, cultural differences, and market fluctuations. It is of importance to maintain a flexible yet steadfast approach and be prepared for unforeseen challenges. As in most other places, it is important to show a respect for local customs, traditions, and religious norms , and to take the time to understand and adhere to cultural patterns, etiquette, and business protocols, including appropriate dress code and communication styles. Business in Qatar is often relationship-driven and it is therefore important to invest time in building strong relationships with local partners, government officials, and key stakeholders; this could be done through networking events, business associations, and trade fairs. Qatar's government plays a significant role in the economy through state ownership of institutions and companies, public procurement and infrastructure projects. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken , especially in business settings. However, having a basic understanding of Arabic can be advantageous for building rapport and conducting negotiations. Qatar has been rated as having one of the least demanding tax frameworks in the world, however, the tax authorities in Qatar continue to align with international tax administration standards. Although the GCC countries have agreed to introduce VAT, and this has been done in several member countries, Qatar has hitherto deferred the introduction of a 5% VAT regime. In general, a company established in Qatar must be headquartered in the country and be Qatari owned, e.g. foreign investors can own only up to 49% of the share capital, while the other 51% must be held by one or more Qatari partners. There are however some exemptions wherein foreign investors’ shareholding might exceed 49% up to 100%: within certain sectors such as industry, health, education, consulting etc. provided that the business (or project) is compatible with Qatar’s development plans. adequately exploits available domestic raw materials, local content, provides new products or establishes new technologies, and has the national interests at heart. By appointing a commercial agent in Qatar, a foreign business can sell goods and products in Qatar via the agent without incorporating a legal presence here. The commercial agent must be a Qatari individual or a legal entity that is wholly owned by Qatari nationals. Several of the major governmental entities require for their contractors and vendors to be included in Approved Vendors Lists and approved contractors list. The approval is either through the entities’ websites, or through the subcontractors' inclusion in tenders or similar. The In-Country Value (ICV) principle is a key component in the tender process that requires companies bidding on projects to demonstrate their commitment to contributing to Qatar's economic development by maximising the local value generated from the project, such as the use of local goods and services, creating job opportunities for Qatari nationals, and transferring knowledge and technology to the local workforce. Compliance with ICV requirements is often a significant consideration in tender evaluations and contract awards for governmental entities. Testbeds in Qatar — controlled environments where new technologies, products, or services are evaluated, tested, and refined before wider deployment — can play a pivotal role in advancing innovation across key sectors such as Smart Cities, Energy and Sustainability, Healthcare, and Transportation. These platforms enable collaboration between government, industry, academia, and international partners to pilot and scale cutting-edge solutions. Licensing Options Ministry of Commerce and Industry – MOCI: The Ministry is responsible for overseeing commercial and industrial activities for the State of Qatar and directing these activities in accordance with the requirements of national development. The Ministry’s mandate includes business development needed to attract investments, and support and develop exports. Key business activities/ focus sectors are all from Sports and Cultural services to Industry, Consultancy Services and Health Services Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) : F ocusing on Financial banking and investment business, as well as Information Technology, Real Estate and Sports and Event management. Qatar Free Zones Authority : The initial focus of the QFZA is on the three sectors of logistics, chemicals and emerging technology. Qatar Science & Technology Park - A technology hub for innovation: Aimed at incubating and growing Qatar’s post-carbon economy and fulfilling Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, the QSTP was established to encourage international corporations and research institutes from around the world to develop and commercialise technology in Qatar and launch entrepreneurial technology businesses. Media City Qatar : Focusing on media related businesses. Learn More: 10 things you need to know about doing business in Qatar - clydeco.com Doing Business in Qatar - pwc.com Doing business in Qatar - Invest Qatar Doha News - Qatar Ministry of Commerce and Industry – MOCI Rules for setting up and operating a company in Qatar - ILoveQatar.net

Frequently Asked Questions About Qatar Choose among the below categories of FAQs to find the answer to your question, or use the search bar. Should you not find the answers you are looking for, feel free to contact the Embassy at ambassaden.doha@gov.se Frequently asked questions General Business Sectors Legal Trade Relations What are the main advantages of doing business in Qatar? Qatar offers a fast-growing economy, tax incentives, and 100% foreign ownership in its Free Zones. The government’s infrastructure development, coupled with a strategic geographic location, makes it an attractive destination for foreign businesses. Additionally, Qatar’s National Vision 2030 promotes a diversified economy, offering opportunities in sectors like energy, infrastructure, life sciences and technology. Learn more: Invest Qatar(https://www.invest.qa/en) Qatar Free Zones (https://qfz.gov.qa/) Government Communications Office - Qatar National Vision 2030 (https://www.gco.gov.qa/en/about-qatar/national-vision2030/) What are Qatar’s key exports to Sweden? Qatar’s primary exports to Sweden as of 2022 include Refined Petroleum ($172M), Ethylene Polymers ($5.05M), and Video Recording Equipment ($2.52M), with petroleum and petrochemical products dominating the trade relationship. These exports, largely energy-related, have grown at an annual rate of 1.71% over the last five years. Learn more: Kommerskollegium - Find commerce statistics for a country or region(https://www.kommerskollegium.se/handelsstatistik/varuhandel/hitta-handelsstatistik-for-ett-land-eller-region/?region=QA&period=202406) OEC - Qatar and Sweden Trade(https://oec.world/en/profile/bilateral-country/qat/partner/swe) What is Qatar National Vision 2030 and how does it impact various sectors? Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030) is a strategic framework aimed at transforming Qatar into an advanced society capable of sustainable development by 2030. The vision focuses on four main pillars: Economic Development, Social Development, Environmental Sustainability, and Human Development. The framework also fosters public-private partnerships to encourage private sector participation, supporting Qatar's broader economic development goals. As the final part of QNV 2030, Qatar has launched the Third National Development Strategy 2024–2030 (QNDS3), focusing on the last seven years of the QNV 2030. The QNDS3 emphasises sustainable economic growth with a 4% annual GDP growth target, driven by economic diversification. It also focuses on financial sustainability, diversifying the energy sector, and environmental sustainability, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030. Key areas include enhancing quality of life, advancing a skilled workforce, and promoting digital governance with 90% of government services digitised. Learn more: National Planning Council (https://www.psa.gov.qa/en/qnv1/Pages/default.aspx#qnv2030-SocialDev) Third Qatar National Development Strategy 2024–2030” (QNDS3)(https://www.npc.qa/en/planning/nds3/Pages/default.aspx) What are the typical approaches for businesses to enter the Qatari market? Qatar Free Zones Qatar Free Zones (QFZ) provide an attractive environment for international businesses. Companies setting up in these zones benefit from 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and duty-free imports. Free Zones such as Ras Bufontas and Umm Alhoul are ideal for companies in logistics, manufacturing, technology, and industrial sectors. Businesses in these zones also benefit from streamlined regulatory processes, enabling faster setup and operations. Additionally, Logistics Parks and Industrial Zones are also offered. Learn more: Invest Qatar - G(https://www.invest.qa/en/why-Qatar/faqs?tab=3&question=7)et Answers to the Most FAQs (https://www.invest.qa/en/why-Qatar/faqs?tab=3&question=7) Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ)(https://qfz.gov.qa/) Local Partner (Joint Ventures) Many foreign businesses opt to form a joint venture with a local Qatari partner. This arrangement typically involves the foreign business holding up to 49% ownership, while the Qatari partner holds the remaining 51%. This method is most commonly used in sectors outside the Free Zones, such as construction and retail, where Qatari law requires a local partner to hold a majority stake in the company. This provides the advantage of leveraging local knowledge, networks, and market access. Ownership can be increased to 100% upon the approval of the Minister of Commerce and Industry. Learn more: Invest Qatar(https://www.invest.qa/en/why-Qatar/faqs?tab=3&question=7) Invest Qatar - Find Your Ideal Business Partner (https://www.invest.qa/en/how-we-help/find-a-business-partner) Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) (https://www.moci.gov.qa/en/about-the-ministry/departments/departments-under-the-assistant-deputy-of-commerce-affairs/public-private-partnership-department/) Local Agent Using a local agent is a common method for businesses wanting to export goods or services to Qatar without setting up a physical presence. Agents have a better knowledge of the local market and business dynamics in Qatar. Getting a commercial agent usually starts with informal meetings and eventually turns into a formal contract when both parties are satisfied. The local agent markets, sells, and distributes the products on behalf of the foreign company. It is a low-risk way to test the market before making more significant investments. The governing entity in Qatar is the The Commercial Registration and Licenses Department (https://www.moci.gov.qa/en/about-the-ministry/departments/departments-under-the-assistant-deputy-of-commerce-affairs/the-commercial-registration-and-licenses-department/)under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Learn more: Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) - Forms (https://www.moci.gov.qa/en/our-services/investor/forms/) Direct Ownership Foreign companies can also own 100% of their business in certain sectors, such as fields of agriculture, industry, health, education, tourism, development, exploitation of natural resources, energy, mining and business consultancy, technical, information technology, cultural, sports, entertainment and distribution services. The QFC offers a robust legal and regulatory framework designed to attract international businesses with simplified tax regimes and streamlined processes. Learn more: Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) - Laws and Regulations (https://www.moci.gov.qa/en/our-services/investor/laws-and-regulations/) Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)(https://www.qfc.qa/en/about-qfc/overview) Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ)(https://qfz.gov.qa/) Disclaimer : The information provided in this FAQ is intended as a general guide for businesses and actors interested in Qatar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, legal and regulatory frameworks may change. Each actor is responsible for verifying the most current laws and procedures by consulting official sources.

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