Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Guide To Investment
Guide To Investment
INVESTMENT
GUIDE TO INVESTMENT
I N V E S T QATA R
E XCI T ING
OPPORT U N I T IE S
AWA I T
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Table of
Contents
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Qatar. Exciting Opportunities Await 08 Qatar. Best Home in Middle East for Your Business 28
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Qatar. Your Partner in Progress 16
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Qatar. Gateway to a Wealth of Opportunities 50
Invest Qatar 18
Ministry of Commerce and Industry 22 Strategic location and connectivity 52
Qatar Financial Centre 23 World–class talent pool and educational institutions 54
Qatar Free Zones Authority 24 National programmes 56
Qatar Science & Technology Park 26 SME and entrepreneurship programmes 57
Media City (Qatar) 27
Start your Investment Journey with us 58
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HH The Amir’s speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum - 4 June 2021
I N V E S T QATA R
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I N V E S T QATA R
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GUIDE TO INVESTMENT GUIDE TOINVESTMENT
Await
Exciting
Qatar.
Opportunities
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01 02 03 04
Human Social Economic Environmental
Development Development Development Development
Development that expands the Development of a just and caring Development of a competitive and Management of the environment
opportunities and capabilities of all society based on high moral diversified economy capable of such that there is harmony
the people of Qatar to enable them to standards, and capable of playing meeting the needs of, and securing between economic growth, social
sustain a prosperous society a significant role in the global a high standard of living for, all its development, and environmental
partnership for development people both for the present and for protection
the future
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QATAR AT A GLANCE
Qatar is a land where tradition meets modernity. It is a country
whose people are rooted in their heritage while maintaining an
eye on the future. It is home to everything from neolithic rock
carvings and modernist skyscrapers to gentle Dugongs in its
glittering waters.
Sharing a land border with Saudi Its population of over 2.8 million
Arabia to the south, Qatar is a people represents a diverse diaspora
peninsula with a 563-km coastline of over 85 different nationalities. The
jutting along the western coast of country’s blend of Arabic heritage
the Arabian Gulf. It is located in the and modern culture makes it an
heart of the Middle East region, at equally attractive home for investors,
the gateway between Africa, Asia and expats, and visitors, and a friendly
Europe, with over 80% of the world’s neighbourhood to raise families and
population within 6-hour flight. build communities.
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Currency:
Qatari Riyal
(pegged at QAR 3.64:
US$1.00 Since 2001)
The safest country
in the world (Numbeo 0.1% unemployment rate
Safety Index)
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Qatar.
in Progress
Your Partner
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Invest Qatar
The Investment Promotion Agency Qatar (IPA Qatar) oversees IPA Qatar supports you
investment promotion activities under the Invest Qatar brand and
acts as a concierge for entrepreneurs and businesses interested in
throughout your investment
investing in Qatar. journey, from exploration
Through leveraging an integrated ecosystem of business and
licensing platforms, we support you throughout your investment
and setup to expansion.
journey, from exploration and setup to expansion, in a way that
is tailored to your unique goals and ambitions to ensure your
long-term success. IPA Qatar’s support covers three main areas:
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Qatar’s licensing platforms represent regulatory environments within
which businesses can be registered and operated.
The Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ) oversees and regulates world-class
free zones in Qatar and secures fixed investments within the zones. QFZ
offers outstanding opportunities and benefits for businesses seeking to
establish operations and expand regionally and globally, providing quality
infrastructure, a skilled workforce, 100% foreign ownership, access to
investment funds, tax exemptions and partnership opportunities with Qatari
entities.
The Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) plays a key role in
providing companies looking to expand to the region, the infrastructure, and
the tools to develop tech-based, innovative, and entrepreneurial solutions.
QSTP welcomes industry leaders and progressive companies to develop
and deploy technological solutions in Qatar, focusing on ed-tech, artificial
intelligence, ICT, sustainable development, and health.
Media City (Qatar) was established by Amiri Decree No. (13) of 2019.
Its goal is to drive the growth and development of the media industry
and to become an international hub for businesses, organisations, and
entrepreneurs with a focus on traditional and digital media, technology,
communications, research, and development.
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Ministry of Commerce Qatar Financial Centre
and Industry (MOCI) (QFC)
“Our country continues to transform into an attractive destination for international companies “With a thriving economy, robust ICT infrastructure, a business-friendly environment, and
and investors alike. With increasing flexibility on ownership, a competitive tax system, and a strategic trade links, Qatar is an attractive destination for international investors. Qatar Financial
world-class infrastructure, as well as a diverse talent pool, expanding global reach, and rapidly Centre is here to help these investors establish their operations in the country and leverage
growing social and cultural options, Qatar is sparing no effort to position itself as a regional what the Qatari market has to offer to grow their business and expand to other regions.”
and global investment hub with an unprecedented value proposition.”
Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida
H.E Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Qassim Al-Thani Board Member and Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Financial Centre
Minister of Commerce and Industry
As an onshore business and financial centre, QFC is unique in the region. It promotes Qatar’s openness
Qatar offers a broad range of incentives and privileges for non-Qatari investors including: to foreign investment and gives bespoke advice to help companies establish their operations in
Qatar. QFC offers a robust and stable operating environment and provides an attractive regulatory
framework. Firms which establish themselves in QFC can benefit from:
Single window-unified and integrated electronic platform to streamline approval and licensing
procedures for company establishments
Up to 100% foreign ownership
Land may be allocated to foreign investors to establish an investment project by means of lease 100% repatriation of profits
or usufruct
A legal, judicial and regulatory framework based on English common law and international best
Exemptions from income tax in accordance with controls, procedures and periods stipulated in practice
the Income Tax Law
Independent court, regulatory tribunal, and dispute resolution centre
Exemption of customs fees on the imports of necessary machinery, equipment, and raw materials
or half manufactured goods necessary for production Unique administrative employment dispute resolution centre accredited by the International
Labour Organisation (ILO)
Foreign investors may transfer any amount related to their investment to and from any external
destination without delay Competitive tax system
Trade in any currency
Entitled to transfer the ownership of an investment to any other investor or assign ownership to
their local partner (in case of partnership)
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Qatar Free Zones Authority
(QFZ)
“Qatar Free Zones (QFZ) provide diverse and flexible solutions to all companies looking to Ras Bufontas - Airport Free Zone Al Ruwais Port
invest in the State of Qatar, especially New Economy companies. This is in addition to providing
Ras Bufontas Free Zone covers 4 km2 directly Ras Laffan
the opportunity to partner with leading Qatari companies and to access physical and digital adjacent to award-winning Hamad International Industrial City
entry points into global supply chains, either through QFZ’s advanced telecommunications Airport (HIA), providing unrivalled access
infrastructure, or its location adjacent to Qatar’s award-winning airport and seaport.” to air transportation and efficient customs
processing times. The red line of the Doha
Metro, provides direct access to the free zone.
H.E. Ahmad bin Mohamed Al-Sayed
Minister of State and Chairman of Qatar Free Zones Authority Dukhan
Key industries/sectors of focus include:
emerging technologies, aviation & business and
QFZ develops and regulates world-class free zones in Qatar, delivering long-term solutions for light manufacturing. Doha
businesses while supporting Qatar’s continued growth and diversification. QFZ also provides top-of-
the-line infrastructure, a range of globally competitive incentives, with land options offering direct Umm Alhoul - Port Free Zone
access to Qatar’s award-winning airport and seaport to connect investors with global markets.
Umm Alhoul Free Zone covers 32 km2 and is
situated near the award-winning Hamad Port,
Qatar Free Zones offer the potential to partner with a broad array of firms, with a focus on those
the world’s largest greenfield port, providing
operating in key sectors where Qatar has a strong value proposition such as emerging technologies, an optimal location for industries which benefit
logistics, industry and maritime. from access to sea freight and shipping routes.
Mesaieed
Industrial City
Unparalleled access to award-winning airport and seaports Key industries/sectors of focus include: heavy
manufacturing, logistics, industrial sectors,
100% foreign ownership downstream petrochemicals, emerging
20-year corporate tax exemptions technologies and maritime.
Zero income tax
Zero customs duties on imports Ras Bufontas - Airport Free Zone Umm Alhoul - Port Free Zone
Robust data protection and intellectual property laws
Pre-built and self-built land plot options
Turnkey offices
Nationwide 5G and 1GB/ps internet speeds
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Qatar Science & Media City (Qatar)
Technology Park (QSTP)
“QSTP, as part of a large network that also includes QF Education City partner universities and “Media City (Qatar) is much more than a licensing platform; it is a vibrant media ecosystem
world-class research institutes, offers the full idea-to-innovation scope of support, expertise, and where exceptional ideas and content thrive. Setting up in Media City (Qatar) provides access
infrastructure necessary for applied research, technology development, and entrepreneurship to a comprehensive value proposition of support levers that enable business and individuals to
to thrive. thrive. From broadcasting to traditional and digital newspapers, from gaming to user generated
content, from audio to advanced technology, Media City (Qatar) welcomes organisations and
Our Park & Free Zone is home to leading global technology companies that have invested in
professionals across multiple media segments.”
Qatar through QSTP and, together with local companies and startups, have become part of
our rich RDI ecosystem, playing an important role in strengthening the sustainability and H.E. Sheikh Ali bin Abdulla bin Khalifa Al-Thani
diversification of Qatar’s economy.” Chief Executive Officer of Media City
Mr. Yosouf A. Saleh Al-Salehi Media City (Qatar) aims to manage and drive the growth and development of the media industry
Executive Director of Qatar Science & Technology Park in Qatar by providing an enabling platform and a nurturing environment for organisations and
individuals to create content in Qatar for the world.
Incentives for investors include: Investors that establish in Media City (Qatar) can benefit from:
Quick company formation
Enabling regulatory environment: A vibrant and innovative media
Up to 100% foreign ownership community:
100% foreign ownership
Exemption on corporate and personal income tax Regulatory body in line with international Community of local and international media
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Qatar. Best
home in the
Middle East for
your business
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Every successful business must take a long-term view to achieve its
most ambitious goals and fulfil its potential. In a world where change 2nd High credit
has never been faster, you need a like-minded partner to achieve that. Most competitive quality
In Qatar, discover a country set up for the long term. A prosperous and economy in the
region (IMD world (AA- from S&P
diversifying economy connects you to new markets to advance your and Fitch, Aa3
competitiveness
ambitions. Where future-ready infrastructure lives alongside timeless ranking) from Moody’s)
hospitality.
4%
98.6/100 1 st Fixed
exchange
projected GDP
Macroeconomic for entrepreneurship growth in 2023
rate (US$ 1
stability score in the Arab world = QR 3.64)
3.4%
in 2024
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FUTURE READY INFRASTRUCTURE Home to the World’s Best Airport and Airline, one of the world’s largest green ports, and the world’s
first commercially available 5G network, Qatar provides both the future-ready infrastructure and ideal
strategic location from which to access global markets and ensure the long-term success of your
Qatar’s future-ready digital and physical infrastructure and connectivity business.
resources ensure international investors experience a seamless flow of • World class logistics infrastructure, enabling •
World-leading digital infrastructure: 4th
trade and capital, and support them to access the markets and build the seamless business operations in 5G leadership index with 99% internet
penetration
relationships they need to succeed. • Qatar Airways and award-winning ports and
transportation systems link you to global • $200bn investment in infrastructure including
markets cutting-edge commercial and residential
projects
•
Free zones ensure a smooth setup and
connect investors with opportunities and • Construction projects worth $250bn in the
complementary businesses pipeline
• Well-designed industrial parks offer companies • 8th globally in ICT adoption (WEF)
an attractive environment to develop and
launch a business
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Qatar Airways
World’s Best Airline – 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021 (Skytrax World Airline Awards)
More than 140 destinations across six continents
32.36 million passengers carried in 2019-20
More than 200 aircraft worth over $50bn on order
GUIDE TOINVESTMENT
Hamad Port
One of the largest green ports in the world, stretching over 28.6 sq. km
More than 15 direct shipping lines, including to Oman, Pakistan, India, Uruguay, and South Korea
Annual capacity of 7.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs)
Qatar Rail
Currently, three main lines and 37 stations connecting the capital to its suburbs
A rapid transit system with 354 km of track
$4bn investment in the second phase of Doha Metro
A total target investment of $12bn
Road Network
Expressway Programme is set to provide nearly 800 km of roads
Over 30 projects ongoing to improve underground storm-water networks and smart transport systems
GUIDE TO INVESTMENT
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LOGISTICS PARKS & INDUSTRIAL ZONES IN QATAR Logistics Park
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SUPPORTIVE BUSINESS ECOSYSTEM
Qatar is constantly expanding opportunities for international companies
looking to establish their presence in or extend their reach to Qatar and
the Middle East. This is made possible through a rigorous reform agenda,
100% foreign ownership across all sectors
a business-friendly environment, robust financial institutions, and a
synergistic range of resources that together form the most empowering
and business-friendly climate in the region. Independent court, regulatory tribunal, and dispute
resolution centre
4th 5th
globally in SME funding (WEF) globally in venture capital
availability (WEF) English common law to conform with international
best practices at Qatar Financial Centre
6th 7th
globally - Government’s globally in government efficiency
responsiveness to change (WEF) Robust data protection and intellectual property laws
Stable currency
Leading stock exchange and favourable
financing options Branch or LCC structuring option
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INVESTMENT INCENTIVES 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.
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TAXATION
Qatar operates a territorial taxation system that has two tax Key features of the State regime: The QFC has its own tax regime contained
in the QFC Tax Regulations and Rules.
regimes, which are the State regime administered by the General The key highlights are:
Tax Authority (GTA) and the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) Broadly, profits attributable to non-Qatari
nationals and Qatari and/or GCC nationals
regime administered by the QFC Tax Department. who are not resident in Qatar are subject Locally sourced profits of the QFC entities
to corporate income tax at a flat rate of are subject to 10% corporate income tax.
10%. Profits arising from service activities carried
out in Qatar, but used outside Qatar, may
0%
be excluded from the tax base as non-local
Zero tax on personal income A different tax rate and potentially basis of source profits.
taxation applies to entities undertaking oil
and gas operations, or where the activities
Unregulated QFC LLCs with a minimum
10%
are carried out under an Agreement with
Corporate tax rate the Government.
90% Qatari ownership benefit from a 0%
concessionary corporate income tax rate -
no tax exemption for the profits of Qatari
Taxpayers may seek approval for an partners in joint ventures is available where
Qatar’s double taxation treaty network with exemption or preferential tax rate for the Qatari ownership in the entity is less
80+ countries projects based on criteria related to the
nature of a project or its location. The
than 90%.
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tax resident companies is taxable at a rate
Tax holiday and exemption from corporate of 10%. However, the sale of shares (and
years tax under Qatar Free Zones Authority the share of profits) in listed companies is
exempt from tax.
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LIVING IN QATAR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
You will feel a sense of belonging through our distinctive
Beyond enormous economic potential, Qatar offers a great blend of
hospitality and culture. Doha is home to many modern and
Arabic heritage and modern culture, making it an equally attractive
sustainable residential developments that are self contained with
home for investors and a friendly neighbourhood to raise families
nurseries, schools, green areas, restaurants and retail.
and build communities.
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SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES
As one of the key pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030, development of the education The country is also home to world leading universities, hosting branch campuses of
sector has been at the core of Qatar’s efforts over the past few years. Qatar is the GCC prominent international higher education institutions, such as:
leader in primary and higher education, offering many highly ranked international
Carnegie Mellon University Qatar Northwestern University in Qatar
schools teaching British, American, and International Baccalaureate curricula.
Georgetown University in Qatar Texas A&M University in Qatar
Hamad Bin Khalifa University Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts Qatar
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CULTURE AND LIFESTYLE Katara Cultural Village Foundation with its beautiful theatres, concert halls, exhibition galleries, and
cutting-edge facilities has become a world leader for multi-cultural activities
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Islamic Art – The Museum of Islamic Art
Qatar’s rich artistic culture and museums celebrate the country’s Wide range of cultural events hosted by the nation’s art galleries, libraries, museums, and film insititute
vibrant heritage. You will experience a great blend of historical and
Qatar has played host to many sporting competitions, including the World Athletics Championships in
modern culture and lifestyle. 2019, and Asian Games 2006
The Aspire Zone boasts some of the World’s finest sports infrastructure and facilities
Investors will have premium access to World Cup 2022 opportunities as well as the 2030 Asian Games
BeIN media group is a world leader in sports broadcasting
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Qatar. Gateway
to a wealth of
opportunities
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QATAR. GATEWAY TO A 4th Globally in 5G Leadership Index
ranking – highest in the Middle East
WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES
World’s Best Airport 2022
World’s Best Airline 2021
Cargo Airline of the Year 2021
Strategic location and connectivity
Qatar offers unparalleled market access and connectivity, located at the
More than 15 direct shipping lines,
gateway between East and West with 2 billion people across more than 25 including Oman, Pakistan, India, Uruguay, Annual capacity of Hamad
economies worth $6 trillion in combined GDP all within 3,000 km. In line and South Korea Port
with Qatar National Vision 2030, the country has embraced infrastructure
development as a vital enabler of economic growth and diversification. 7.5m
twenty-foot equivalent units
Major infrastructure expansion and (TEUs)
modernisation projects have been
Airport expansion will
orchestrated over the past decade, increase passenger
forming a robust backbone for domestic capacity to more than
and international investments, and 60m
boosting sea, air, and land connectivity.
The country’s state-of-the-art physical after 2022 and cargo
capacity to
and digital infrastructure enables access
to global markets. 3.2m
tons a year by 2023
2 BILLION 80%
people and over $6 trillion in
combined GDP within 3,000 km
of the world’s population is within a
6-hour flight from Qatar
160+
direct connections by air
of Qatar and sea
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National Programmes SMEs and Entrepreneurship programmes
Sport Accelerator
Manateq
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As Qatar continues its rapid transformation into a global hub for business, it is becoming
a second home for many international companies and investors alike. We invite you to
explore further the many investment opportunities that await.
Our Investor Relations team is ready to support you through the investment process
to ensure your long-term success in Qatar.
For more information visit: invest.qa | Phone: +974 4496 7505 | Email: info@invest.qa
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