778-Som-Lalit Institute Of Business Management - Gujarat ...

Doing Business in Qatar
In keeping with the objectives spoken in its National Vision 2030, Qatar has driven to
shift its economic and developmental focus away from a dependence on oil and gas
by promoting a policy of economic diversification as evidenced by the now
internationally recognized brands of Qatar Airways and Al Jazeera, and its fruitful bid
to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Knowing that the contribution of non-Qatari
investors is an essential part of the successful recognition of this policy, Qatar
continues to implement new legislation intended at liberalizing the business
atmosphere for such investors, and presenting incentives and exemptions that
supplement the country's already significant investment appeal.
1. Investment restrictions
(a) Non-Qatari investors may only invest in Qatar in harmony with the provisions of
the Foreign Investment Law (Law No. (13) of 2000 as amended).
(b) Non-Qatari investors may invest in all parts of the national economy (other than
those set out in (c) below) with a Qatari partner who must have at least 51% of any
enterprise.
(c) Non-Qatari investors may not invest in commercial agencies or, broadly
speaking, real estate and infrastructure. Authorization from the Council of Ministers
is necessary for foreign investment in banking or insurance.
(d) The Minister of Business & Trade (Minister) may license non-Qatari investors to
own up to 100% of an initiative in precise business sectors, being, agriculture,
industry, health, education, tourism, the development of natural resources, energy or
mining, consultancy and technical services, information technology, culture, sport
and recreation/entertainment services and distribution services, though such
approval is not granted frequently.
(e) Foreign capital is guaranteed in contradiction of expropriation (although the State
may acquire assets for public benefit on a non-discriminatory basis, provided the full
economic value is paid for the asset).
(f) A non-Qatari company which is performing a specific contract in Qatar may
register a diminishing entity or division office (Branch) if the project facilitates the
performance of a public service or utility.
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