How to establish 100% ownership company in qatar

A new law, effective January 1, 2019, repealed Law 13 of 2000 that regulated non-Qatari capital investment in economic activities. This new legislation introduces several key provisions:

* Foreign ownership of up to 100 percent is now permitted in all economic sectors, as specified by the executive regulations of the new law for commercial activities conducted by non-Qataris.

* The Council of Ministers has excluded certain activities from this provision, including banking, insurance (unless exempted by a decision), and commercial agencies

* The foreign ownership limit for listed companies on the Qatar Exchange has been increased to 49 percent, subject to approval by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Additionally, the Minister of Commerce and Industry can recommend an increase to the Council of Ministers.

* Most incentives from the repealed law have been retained with some adjustments.

* Foreign investors, except in labor disputes, can refer their disputes to international arbitration.

However, the new law does not apply to the following entities:

1. Companies and individuals engaged in the extraction or management of natural resources under concessions or special contracts, as long as these agreements do not conflict with the new law.

2. Public and private companies established or participated in by the government, public institutions, or government-affiliated companies where the government holds at least 51 percent, as specified by the Commercial Companies Law.

3. Companies or individuals licensed by Qatar Petroleum to conduct petroleum activities or to invest in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries.

For assistance with establishing a 100% foreign-owned company in Qatar, please contact us.