Qatar Financial Centre Cuts Application Fees by 90%

Doha, Qatar - The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has significantly reduced its application fee for business registration, lowering the cost from $5,000 to just $500. This 90% reduction is aimed at facilitating business setup in Qatar and attracting global companies, startups, and SMEs to establish a presence in the country.  

Who is Eligible? 

The new fee structure applies to:  

• All new non-regulated businesses setting up under QFC.  
• Startups, SMEs, and international firms looking to establish a presence in Qatar.  

Exemptions:

Single Family Offices are not included in this fee reduction.  

Key Benefits of the QFC Platform

Businesses operating under the QFC enjoy several advantages, including:  

• 100% foreign ownership – No local partner required.  
• Legal jurisdiction based on English common law – Providing a globally recognized legal framework.  
• Competitive tax benefits – Corporate tax rate of 10% on locally sourced profits. 
• Business-friendly incorporation – Fast and efficient company registration.  

Opportunities for Startups, SMEs, and Entrepreneurs

The reduced application fee makes it significantly easier for startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs to establish their businesses in Qatar without the heavy upfront costs. This initiative lowers financial risk, allowing new ventures to focus on innovation, market entry, and growth rather than administrative expenses.  

• Startups: benefit from a more affordable launchpad into the Middle East, with access to a growing economy and a supportive business ecosystem.  
• SMEs: can expand operations with reduced barriers, gaining a foothold in Qatar’s competitive market.  
• Entrepreneurs: gain a streamlined path to incorporation, enabling them to test and scale their ideas with minimal setup costs.  

By combining cost-effective registration with 100% foreign ownership, a pro-business regulatory framework, and attractive tax policies, Qatar is positioning itself as a dynamic hub for emerging businesses and global innovators.

Qatar’s Broader Economic Strategy

This move aligns with Qatar’s national strategy to attract foreign investments, support local economic diversification, and enhance the private sector.  

• The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has also slashed fees for commercial registration and licensing, reducing them to just QR500 for various business activities.  
• These initiatives are part of a broader effort to position Qatar as a leading business hub in the Middle East.  

By reducing the cost of business setup and simplifying the registration process, the Qatar Financial Centre is making it easier for international companies to expand into the region. With competitive benefits and a supportive regulatory environment, Qatar continues to strengthen its position as a global investment destination.