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QFC – 100% Foreign owned companies

The QFC Has recently opened its doors to more “non-regulated” companies, allowing them to establish as a 100% foreign owned company. The QFC now offers not only an alternative to having a local Qatari partner but it also a simple and affordable alternative.

There are 6 new categories which can establish under the QFC. One of those is “the business of providing professional services including but not limited to audit, accounting, tax, consulting and legal services”.

The QFC has been “broadening its interpretation” of “professional services”. Last March the QFC approved a list of 17 additional activities, which can be included, which are:

1. Information technology consultancy activities
2. Advertising agencies
3. Architectural activities
4. Engineering design activities for industrial process and production
5. Engineering related scientific and technical consulting activities
6. Environmental consulting activities
7. Media representation services
8. Translation and interpretation activities
9. Urban planning and landscape architectural activities
10. Accreditation
11. Logistics Planning and Consulting
12. Project Management
13. Marketing and Brand management
14. Specialised design activities
15. Event management services
16. Estate planning and will writing
17. Activities of patent and copyright agents: other legal activities not elsewhere classified

However, these 17 additional activities are not exclusive. That means that QFC will consider any “professional service” and anything qualified as business to business falls within the category and is potentially permissible. What the QFC will not consider as a non-regulated activity is construction, manufacturing or import/sale of goods or labour-intensive services.

If you are looking to establish a Limited Liability Company in Qatar, we would recommend having a free consultation with us to discuss your options.