Discover a country set up for your long-term success
Qatar offers a great blend of Arabic heritage and modern culture, making it an equally attractive home for investors, expats, and visitors, and a friendly neighbourhood to raise families and build communities.
We are the safest country in the world
85.2
1stQatar
84.9
2ndUAE
76.9
7thSwitzerland
75.4
10thSaudi Arabia
70.8
21stSingapore
Qatar in Numbeo Safety Index 2023
Numbeo is the world’s largest database of user contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. Numbeo provides current and timely information on world living conditions including cost of living, housing indicators, health care, traffic, crime and pollution.
The Pearl Qatar is a man-made island near Doha's prestigious West Bay District. Featuring Mediterranean-style yacht-lined marinas, residential towers, villas, and hotels, the area also offers a luxurious shopping experience. The Island is also home to modern dining spots - from refreshing ice creams to five-star culinary experiences and stands out for its pedestrian-friendly squares and plazas along with its wide range of landscaped gardens.
The Pearl is one of the freehold areas in Qatar, primary location for foreigners looking to invest in real estate. Investors in the Pearl will benefit from long term or permanent residency, healthcare, education and commercial activities benefits, depending on the amount invested.
Lusail is a model for the city of the future; an anchor of thriving economies and societies, a beacon of smart living, and a blueprint for Qatar’s urban transformation and multicultural fabric. Lusail extends across 38 square kilometres and includes 4 exclusive islands and 19 multi-purpose residential, entertainment and commercial districts.
As a freehold market, Lusail is now one of the top areas for foreigners looking for real estate investment. Investors will benefit from long term or permanent residency, healthcare, education, and commercial activities benefits depending on the investment amount.
Msheireb Downtown Doha is strategically located in the heart of Doha, the ambitious and thriving capital of Qatar – only minutes away from Hamad International Airport and midway between two key routes into the city. Msheireb defines a city in transformation, utilising the latest in sustainable technologies and adhering to the highest standards in green building.
As a leasehold zone, foreign investors can lease properties in Msheireb for a duration up to 99 years. Leasehold properties owners can benefit from long term to permanent residency in addition to healthcare, education and commercial activities benefits depending on the investment amount.
Families looking for fancy quarters find West Bay to be one of the best places to live in Qatar. There are plenty of nurseries, kindergartens, and schools here, therefore education is not a problem. In addition, the best of Doha is within easy reach. If you will have family and friends visiting while you live in Qatar, the area also has a range of five-star hotels.
West bay is one of the freehold zones in Qatar where foreign investors can buy properties and enjoy a wide range of benefits like long term or permanent residency, healthcare, education and commercial activities benefits depending on the investment amount.
Top-notch education and world-class healthcare
Schools
Schools
Qatar offers a robust and diversified K-12 education system, providing a broad set of schooling opportunities, including 500+ public and private schools serving more than 396,000 students.
Education city spans more than 12 square kilometres and hosts branch campuses of prominent international higher education institutions, as well as research and community centres.
QU is committed to providing high-quality education in areas of national priority. Underpinning this commitment is the goal to align its colleges, programs, and courses with established international standards and best practices.
Hamad Medical Corporation is leading the development of the region’s first academic health system – combining innovative research, top-class education and excellent clinical care – and is committed to building a legacy of healthcare expertise in Qatar.
Primary Health Care Corporation is leading the transformation of the health and wellbeing of the people of Qatar, by shifting the balance of care from curative, hospital-based treatment to enhanced preventive, health, and wellness services in the community.
Sidra Medicine is part of a dynamic research and education environment. Through strong partnerships with leading institutions around the world, Sidra Medicine helps advance scientific discovery through investment in medical research.
Aspetar is the first specialised Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital in the Gulf region. It provides the highest possible medical treatment for sports-related injuries in a state-of-the-art facility.
Home to people from over 85 countries, Qatar is a multicultural society. Its varied dining scene reflects this rich diversity, featuring a range of cuisines.
Food
Sports
Sports
Qatar offers a wide variety of sporting activities and facilities. It is also one of 5 countries in the world with a national sports day
Shopping
With a comprehensive array of high street and brands from around the world, Doha's world-class malls have an extensive range of recreational facilities
Shopping
Family fun
Family fun
Qatar is known for being a family friendly destination. From dune bashing to camping, arts & crafts to entertainment, Qatar caters to all ages
Rich culture and heritage
Museum of Islamic Art
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art represents Islamic art from three continents over 1,400 years. MIA is the flagship of Qatar Museums which, under the leadership of its Chairperson H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, is transforming the State of Qatar into a cultural capital of the Middle East. Through safeguarding masterpiece collections of Islamic art and showcasing extraordinary exhibitions, MIA shares knowledge while spreading curiosity, understanding, and joy.
National Museum of Qatar
National Museum of Qatar
The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is dedicated to bringing to life the unique story of Qatar and its people. It actively gives voice to the nation’s rich heritage and culture and demonstrates Qatar’s extensive network of ties with other nations and people around the world. Designed as a vibrant and immersive space, diverse communities can come together and experience Qatar’s past, present and future.
Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif
Built on the site of Doha’s century old trading market, on the banks of the Wadi Msheireb, Souq Waqif feels like an anachronism, particularly against the backdrop of Doha’s dramatic modernist skyline. With its mud-daubed buildings, the market harkens to a bygone era while remaining a hub of activity, where commerce and community collide. Souq Waqif’s winding alleys offer a tableau of traditional street life.
A sailing sport that combines wakeboarding, surfing and windsurfing, Kite surfing
or kite boarding is a popular watersport in Qatar. Many local tour operators and
5-star hotels with private beaches offer the experience.
Parasailing
Initially used as part of the pilot survival training by NASA in the 1960s,
parasailing is a thrilling experience of soaring at a height of up to 100 meters
on a parachute tied to a speedboat. Best places to try this are Katara Beach
Club and Sealine Resort.
Wakeboarding
For a quick and easy adrenaline rush, try wakeboarding, wake surfing or
waterskiing in the waters off Doha. Sessions are booked in 20-minute increments
and first timers can get their sea legs by booking an introductory lesson with
an experienced coach.
Kayaking
The best way to explore the flora and fauna of the country’s magnificent natural
reserves at the Inland Sea and Al Takira Mangroves is by kayak. Tour operators
offer sunrise and moonlit trips along with training, equipment and guides.
Diving
Counted among the world’s top pearl diving centres, Qatar is an ideal destination
for diving year-round. Divers can explore the fascinating marine life, boat
wrecks and limestone formations. PADI training courses and trips are offered by
many diving centres and tour operators at a variety of locations.
Sailing
With 563 kilometres of coastline, sailing is one of the best ways to see the
country. With sailing clubs offering training in dinghies, keelboats to
traditional dhow boats, luxury yachts, and even dragon boating for large groups,
Qatar caters to all types of mariners.
Qatar’s railway network comprises three main state-wide projects designed, constructed, operated,
and maintained by Qatar Rail. Doha Metro is Qatar’s public transport backbone and is one of the
most advanced rail transit systems in the world. The network began operations in 2019, with
three main lines and 37 stations running mostly underground to connect the capital to its
suburbs. Future development of the Doha Metro will involve the introduction of an additional
line and the expansion of existing stations.
Network Map
Road network
Over the past few years, Qatar has witnessed rapid population growth together with strong
economic growth. These developments have required further enhancements to the land transport
infrastructure to support the expansion in the industrial, commercial and service sectors.
Land transport has become a key enabler of the Qatari economy and a cornerstone of its growth ,
At the heart of the infrastructure upgrade portfolio currently being implemented by ‘Ashghal’ is
the Expressway Program.
Tram
Lusail Tram is a tram service for convenient travel within the new city of Lusail, the
network includes four lines and 25stations aboveground and underground. Lusail Tram connects
to the Doha Metro through two interchange stations at Lusail and Legtaifiya.
Trams are greener and cope better with traffic than buses. They are also much more efficient
in terms of road usage as one train replaces about 40 cars which take up a far larger area
of road space.
Network Map
Buses
Mowasalat-Karwa provides a frequent, reliable bus service throughout Doha and to all major
communities in Qatar. Buses are modern, air conditioned with low floor access and space for
wheelchairs on most buses. A new fleet of luxury buses are used on longer services to Al
Khor, Al Shamal, Dukhan and Messaieed as well as Airport Express service.
Mowasalat operates a total of 50 routes starting as early as 4am with last buses timed to
depart around 11pm. Most routes operate from Doha Bus Station.
Network Map
The top water activities to try in Qatar
Kite surfing
A sailing sport that combines wakeboarding, surfing and windsurfing, Kite surfing
or kite boarding is a popular watersport in Qatar. Many local tour operators and
5-star hotels with private beaches offer the experience.
Parasailing
Initially used as part of the pilot survival training by NASA in the 1960s,
parasailing is a thrilling experience of soaring at a height of up to 100 meters
on a parachute tied to a speedboat. Best places to try this are Katara Beach
Club and Sealine Resort.
Wakeboarding
For a quick and easy adrenaline rush, try wakeboarding, wake surfing or
waterskiing in the waters off Doha. Sessions are booked in 20-minute increments
and first timers can get their sea legs by booking an introductory lesson with
an experienced coach.
Kayaking
The best way to explore the flora and fauna of the country’s magnificent natural
reserves at the Inland Sea and Al Takira Mangroves is by kayak. Tour operators
offer sunrise and moonlit trips along with training, equipment and guides.
Diving
Counted among the world’s top pearl diving centres, Qatar is an ideal destination
for diving year-round. Divers can explore the fascinating marine life, boat
wrecks and limestone formations. PADI training courses and trips are offered by
many diving centres and tour operators at a variety of locations.
Sailing
With 563 kilometres of coastline, sailing is one of the best ways to see the
country. With sailing clubs offering training in dinghies, keelboats to
traditional dhow boats, luxury yachts, and even dragon boating for large groups,
Qatar caters to all types of mariners.
The desert is an integral part of local culture, and boasts a surprising array of
activities. From relaxing tent side to dune-bashing or parasailing, the desert is anything
but beige.
The impressive 'Inland Sea' or Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO recognized site, lies to the south of
the city, and is one of the few places in the world where the sea encroaches into the
desert.
For a truly authentic desert experience, nothing beats a camel ride over the soft dunes,
before embarking on an exhilarating desert safari over the dunes to Khor Al Adaid,
accessible only by 4x4 vehicles.
For a unique experience, sandboard down the dunes or for more thrills enjoy a ride on a quad
bike, ATV or dune buggy.
Visitors can enjoy daytime, evening, or overnight camping trips through one of several
companies that operate Bedouin-style camps in the desert. The reserve is home to wildlife,
marine life and vegetation.
Strong winds and vast skies make the deserts of Qatar perfect for paragliding,
offering a wholly different perspective of the landscape.
Hot air balloon
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Doha during sunrise. Experience the exciting
sky adventure while enjoying a 360-degree panoramic and picturesque view of the
city! A must-activity to tick off your bucket list!
Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club
Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) was established in the early 1960s and
was officially made public in 1975. QREC develops horse racing events, organises
Arabian horse shows and encourages horse owners to care for and race the best
horses.
Doha Golf Club
Founded in 1998, Doha Golf Club is one of the oldest golf destinations in the
region, putting Qatar on the world golfing map. It offers two golf courses,
sports courts, leisure activities and dining options, while it provides
beautiful venues for any type of social event.
Supporting your investment journey in Qatar’s dynamic business environment
Our platform gives you Access to a wealth of resources and tools, spanning information on establishing a business, hiring, living, taxation, and the regulatory frameworks in Qatar.
Here are some key processes to know as you start your investment journey in Qatar.
Businesses can incorporate and operate through Qatar’s licensing platforms
including:
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI)
Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
Qatar Free zones Authority (QFZ)
Qatar Science and Technology park (QSTP)
Media City
Upon the approval of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and obtaining the
commercial registration and license from relevant authorities, businesses can start
their operations.
Core focus sectors across platforms vary:
MOCI oversees commercial and industrial activities
QFC is a leading onshore business and financial centre providing a world-class
platform for domestic and international companies to set up or expand their
business in Qatar
QFZ supports companies in key sectors including emerging technology,
manufacturing and chemicals, trade and logistics and maritime activities
QSTP provides multiple programmes and infrastructural and tech-based support
system for companies
Media City focuses on the growth and development of the media industry with a
focus on traditional and digital media, technology, communications, research and
development
For registering under the MOCI, for an LLC company, the following are the main
requirements:
Application to incorporate a company
Commercial registration attested by competent authorities and translated into
Arabic
Shareholders/board resolution
Model of the project work plan
Trade license
Certified copy of memorandum and articles of association attested and
translated into Arabic
Power of attorney
For establishing an LLC company under MOCI, the application fee is around QAR 1,500
(minimum), and the license fee is around QAR 1,020 (minimum).
Critical information you may need regarding the country’s talent landscape
The country provides several facilities for recruitment in both high skilled and
low-skilled jobs. These include various globally recognised job sites, services, and
agencies, allowing employers to recruit talent at the national, regional, and
international levels.
Employers must enroll their non-Qatari employees and their family members in
the mandatory health insurance scheme through contracts concluded with insurance
companies registered with the MOPH.
Qatar’s Law No.17 of 2020 introduced the non-discriminatory minimum wage
applying to all workers, with a basic monthly wage of QAR 1,000 ($275 USD), and
an allowance of at least QAR 300 and QAR 500 for food and housing respectively.
On average, the maximum working hours are 48 per week. During the month of
Ramadan, it is reduced to a maximum of 36 hours per week or 6 hours per day.
Workers are entitled to at least one day of rest per week.
The average monthly wage for the total number of workers amounted to nearly QAR
12,000.
Average annual salaries of skilled workers including data scientists, software
engineers, and financial analysts, range from USD 60,000-100,000
The Ministry of Interior (MoI) set up visa centres to provide seamless and
efficient service for residency procedures on its behalf in eight countries - India,
Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines and Nepal. Individuals must
complete biometric enrolment, medical examinations, and sign work contracts in their
home countries through the Qatar Visa Center (QVCs) before coming to Qatar.
Work permits are issued for a minimum of one year and a maximum of five years
approved by the Ministry of Labor (MoL). The MoL offers an e-service for the
issuance and renewal of work permits for workers.
There are over 32 higher education institutions in Qatar, with world-renowned
universities and local training centres for upskilling talent.
Qatar has a vibrant knowledge ecosystem and rich culture offering:
Innovative and entrepreneurial: 1st in Arab world in Global Entrepreneurship
Index
World-leading digital infrastructure: 4th in 5G Leadership Index with 99%
internet penetration
15 renowned international universities and institutes at Qatar Foundation’s
Education City
Key for businesses and individuals seeking to understand the tax system in Qatar.
Under Law No. 24 of 2018 (the Tax Law), non-Qatari nationals and Qatari and/or
GCC nationals who are not residents in Qatar are subject to corporate income tax
at a flat rate of 10%.
A different tax rate applies to entities undertaking oil and gas / petrochemical
operations, or where the activities are carried out under an Agreement with the
Government. Such entities are generally taxed at a rate of 35% or higher.
A legal entity incorporated in Qatar, which is wholly owned by Qatari and/or GCC
nationals that are tax resident in Qatar, is exempt from corporate income tax.
All taxpayers operating businesses in Qatar must obtain tax cards from the General
Tax Authority (GTA).
Applications should be submitted within 30 days from commencing activities or
registering with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Commercial Register.
A body corporate is considered resident if it is formed and registered under Qatari
law or if it conducts business through a head office or place of effective
management in Qatar.
There are no taxes imposed on employed individuals’ salaries, wages and allowances
in Qatar.
Currently, Qatar imposes no VAT or sales tax on operations in Qatar.
Qatar imposes excise tax on the following goods at their respective rates:
Tobacco and its products: 100%
Energy drinks: 100%
Carbonated drinks: 50%
Special-purpose goods (consumed under specific conditions and authorisations):
100%
The General Authority of Customs (GAC) is the competent government authority
responsible for monitoring and implementing all import and export regulations,
working closely with other public and private agencies to ensure compliance with
Qatar’s customs legislation.
In alignment with the GCC Customs Union, Qatar imposes a 5% ad valorem tariff on
the value of cost, insurance and freight (CIF) invoice of general cargo goods,
excluding those exempted by law provisions. The tariff may also include a fixed
amount levied on each unit of the goods. The limited tariff exceptions are:
Records and music instruments: 15%
Steel: 20%
Urea and ammonia: 30%
Alcoholic beverages: 100%
Cigarettes and tobacco products: 100% or QAR 1,000 per 10,000 cigarettes,
whichever is higher
The Qatari Labour Law enables employees to terminate their employment during their
probationary period by providing a one-month notice to their employer.
The one-month notice period applies to employees who are in their first two years
of service, whereas the two-month notice period applies to employees who have served
longer.
TThe Commercial Companies Law provides for the following types of legal entities
that may be formed and registered in the State of Qatar:
Joint Liability Company
Limited Partnership
Joint Venture Company
Public Shareholding Company
Private Shareholding Company
Partnership Limited by Shares
Limited Liability Company
Holding Company
Foreign Investment Law (Law No. 1 of 2019) allows the establishment of 100%
foreign-owned companies, with various incentives and benefits for non-Qatari
investors as outlined by the law.
The 100% foreign ownership law does not apply to the banking and insurance sectors,
companies engaged in the exploitation of natural resources, commercial agencies, and
any other sectors decided by the Council of Ministers.
Qatar creates a supportive environment for foreign investors.
With its strong economic foundation, future-ready infrastructure, and unparalleled
connectivity, Qatar is rapidly transforming into an extraordinary hub that offers a
promising outlook and creates a lucrative world of opportunities for today's ambitious
investors.
Qatar has created a business-friendly climate for investors with offerings
including:
Up to 100% foreign ownership across various sectors
10% corporate tax rate
Zero tax on personal income
Expanded economic zones (with Tax Holidays)
Double Taxation Agreements (DTA) with 80+ countries
No restrictions on profit repatriation
Single-window registration services to simplify commercial registration
Access to the international court for alternative dispute resolution (QICDRC)
The foreign investment law in Qatar offers various incentives for non-Qatari
investors, including land allocation, income tax exemption, customs duty
exemption for machinery, equipment and raw materials, fair compensation in case
of expropriation, transfer of ownership, and dispute settlement through
arbitration.
The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar) oversees investment
promotion activities under the Invest Qatar brand and acts as the country’s umbrella
organisation for FDI attraction. As part of its mandate, IPA Qatar manages financial
incentives under a centralised national incentives programme, developed to
complement the nation’s value proposition to attract foreign investors.
Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) offers a range of investment
incentives, including land allocation for foreign investment projects by way of use
or renewable rent. The foreign investor has the right to import what is necessary
for the establishment, operation or expansion of their investment project, and the
investor may be exempt from income tax and customs duties for machinery and
equipment.
Qatar Development Bank (QDB) offers a range of mechanisms—from reviewing your
feasibility study and supporting you with the necessary funding to providing legal
and financial advisory services—to helping you launch and run a business
successfully in Qatar.
Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF)programmes provide funding opportunities
in the academic, public and private sectors to foster research in priority sectors
such as engineering and technology, physical and life sciences, medicine,
humanities, social sciences, and arts.
Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) provides multiple funding
opportunities for local and international tech founders and entrepreneurs. Through
the Product Development Fund (PDF), QSTP provides up to 50% of the total budget as a
grant to encourage local startups and SMEs, and the QSTP Tech Venture Fund (TVF)
provides source-seed funding and follow-on capital for local and international tech
founders and entrepreneurs looking to scale-up in the region.
With its future-ready digital and physical infrastructures, abundant natural
resources and global connectivity, Qatar is a major international hub that provides
unparalleled market access, enabling international investors to benefit from an
increasingly seamless flow of trade and capital.
More than 2 billion people across 25 countries worth $6 trillion in combined
GDP are located within 3000 km of Qatar
Qatar is connected to over 140 international destinations, through Qatar
Airways and Hamad International Airport (HIA)
Hamad Port is one of the largest green ports in the world, stretching over
28.5 sq. km
Qatar offers a set of incentives for expatriate labour:
A resource hub for all publications providing critical information to investors including
valuable insights and information on market opportunities, informative guides,
macroeconomic outlooks, geographical studies and other valuable insights.
A resource hub for all publications providing critical information to investors including
valuable insights and information on market opportunities, informative guides,
macroeconomic outlooks, geographical studies and other valuable insights.
Here are some key processes to know as you start your investment journey in
Qatar.
Qatar’s stable and competitive economy has been growing at a faster rate on average
than advanced economies. The country's high per capita income, vast hydrocarbon
reserves, and strong economic fundamentals support its credit profile.
Early indicators are signaling robust economic activity and strong business
conditions. The economy is expected to record strong growth thanks to favorable
hydrocarbon prices and increased demand during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Cup.
Qatar’s S&P rating is AA-, Moody’s Aa3, and Fitch AA-, displaying a stable outlook.
Qatar is a key contributor to global energy security as the largest exporter of
natural gas globally. Qatar’s top five export partners include China, India, South
Korea, Japan, and the UK.
FDI markets estimate ~QAR 4bn worth of projects in 2021, a 33% increase compared to
the previous year.
In 2022, Qatar recorded the highest total investment in the region, attracting USD
23.7 bn worth of projects. According to fDi intelligence, Qatar ranked 1st globally
in terms of investment momentum for 2023.
Qatar provides a wide range of accommodation options from modest to high-end,
smart, and sustainable living environments. Some of the world-class central and
modern living places are found in Msheireb Downtown Doha, West Bay, Lusail City, and
the Pearl.
The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment varies from $1,118 to $1,763.
Whereas the average monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment lies between $2,130
and $3,137.
Qatar has over 207 private schools offering a comprehensive and integrated
curriculum, and over 332 private schools offering various curricula – like the
International Baccalaureate (IB), British curriculum, Indian curriculum, among
others.
Qatar offers a multimodal transport system, including the:
Doha Metro, a state-of-the-art automated rail network with single fares of QAR 2
(Standard)
Mowasalat (Karwa) Public Bus Service with fares attractively priced from QAR 2.50 -
QAR 9
Mowasalat (Karwa) Taxi Service
Lusail Tram with single fares for QAR 2
Qatar provides world-class healthcare through 27 regional Primary Healthcare Care
Corporation Centers (PHCC), 12 public hospitals run by Hamad Medical Corporation
(HMC), and over 20 private hospitals and clinics.
To apply for a Qatari Driving License, you must be a resident in Qatar, at least 18
years of age.
To apply for a Qatari Driving License, simply present the required documents to the
traffic departments located in driving schools.
Documents include:
Qatari ID card and passport
A copy of the ID card of the sponsor (if the sponsor is a person)
A letter from the sponsor to approve the request for a new license
3 recent colour photographs (passport size)
The license fee is QAR 250 for non-Qataris (valid for 5 years), and QAR 300 for
heavy vehicles (valid for five years for non-Qatari). Additional fees apply for
driving and vision tests.
Qatar is home to an innovative and advanced banking ecosystem – offering digital
and mobile banking for users to seamlessly transfer and transact online. There are
around 18 banks operating in Qatar through 202 local branches and about 20 exchange
companies.
To open a bank account, the following are typically required:
- Documents including a copy of Qatar ID, and passport
Scale Up in Qatar is a dedicated program focused on providing foreign investors with bespoke offerings including advisory services to support the growth of their businesses.
Contact us for more information
Access Qatar
Access Qatar is designed to streamline the journey of foreign investors in Qatar by offering premium and fast-tracked services including but not limited to
Dedicated support prior to arriving in Qatar for visa and entry requirements
