Country guide

Company Formation in Qatar with Foreign Ownership

Law No. 1 of 2019 regulating non-Qatari capital investment permits a foreign investor to own up to 100% of a company in most sectors. Banking and insurance are excluded unless the Council of Ministers decides otherwise, along with other sectors it identifies, such as commercial agencies. Ownership above 49% needs Ministry of Commerce and Industry approval. Registration is through the Single Window.

Office Services

A service followed up by our office team

The service scope and price are confirmed in a written quote after reviewing the activity, country, and documents. VAT applies where applicable and government fees are separate.

Who can own?

  • Law No. 1 of 2019 permits a foreign investor to own up to 100% of a company in most sectors.
  • Banking and insurance are excluded unless the Council of Ministers decides otherwise, along with other sectors it identifies, such as commercial agencies.
  • Ownership above 49% needs Ministry of Commerce and Industry approval.

Common entities

  • Limited liability company

Steps

  1. Check the activity and required ownership percentage.
  2. Request approval for the foreign ownership percentage where it is above 49%, with documents and business plan.
  3. Reserve the name and complete articles of association and commercial registration through the Single Window.
  4. Complete follow-on licences, registrations and banking.

Documents and legalisation

  • Legalised investor or parent-company documents.
  • Business and financial plan for an application above 49%.

Typical timing

  • It depends on the activity and Ministry approval.

After formation

  • After commercial registration, complete licences, registrations and banking.

Frequently asked questions

Can I own 100% in Qatar?

Yes, in most sectors, with Ministry approval for ownership above 49%, except the excluded sectors.

Is there a financial centre with different rules?

Yes. Qatar Financial Centre has its own framework. See the free-zones page.

Request a written quote

Send your activity and target country, and we will set out the steps and documents in the written quote for your case.

A concise company-formation guide + monthly regulatory updates

Double opt-in protects your email; no newsletter is sent by the website before confirmation.

Official sources

Last updated: October 2026

Information is general guidance based on the official sources listed and is confirmed in the written quote for your case.

Information on this site is general guidance based on published official sources and does not replace your written quote. Government fees and final decisions rest with the authorities.