Understanding the business regulations, legal requirements, and cultural nuances is essential for the success of women’s entrepreneurship. Qatar has many female entrepreneurs, including Sheikha Hanadi bint Nassar Al Thani, one of the most successful Qatari woman entrepreneurs in the world. She is the Founder & CEO of the Al Waab City Real Estate Development project.
Vision 2030 of Qatar
Qatar’s National Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy away from hydrocarbons. Women’s entrepreneurship play a significant role in realising this Vision, particularly in the technology, education, and healthcare sectors. Running and Starting a business in Qatar as a woman entrepreneur is appealing yet challenging.
Setting up a business in Qatar
Starting a business in Qatar by female entrepreneurs involves several steps mentioned below:
1. Understanding the Legal Framework
A. Choose a Business Structure from the following:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Qatar’s most common business structure requires at least one Qatari partner who holds 51% of the shares.
- Single-Person Company (SPC): Allows for 100% ownership by the entrepreneur, offering more control and flexibility.
- Branch Office of Foreign Companies
- Representative Office: Primarily used for market research, this structure does not allow direct commercial activities.
B. Legal Requirements
- Commercial Registration (CR): A mandatory legal requirement issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry allowing you to operate your business.
- Trade License: This license is required to conduct business activities legally and is issued by the municipality where the business operates.
- Qatar Chamber Membership: Businesses must be registered with the Qatar Chamber.
C. Taxation
- Corporate Tax: While Qatari-owned businesses are exempt from corporate tax, foreign-owned entities (including those with foreign partners) are subject to a 10% corporate tax on profits.
- Personal Income Tax: Qatar does not levy personal income tax.
2. Starting a Business: Steps
A. Business Planning
- Market Research: Conducting market research is vital to understand the local market, consumer behaviour.
- Business Plan Development: A solid business plan outlining your objectives, target market, and financial projection is crucial.
B. Registration Process
- Select a Business Structure: Based on your ownership preferences and business goals.
- Reserve a unique Trade Name aligning with Qatari cultural norms. It must be approved by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI).
- Obtain Commercial Registration: Apply for your Commercial Registration (CR) by submitting the required documents to the MOCI.
- Secure a Trade License: From the relevant municipality based on your business location.
- Open a Corporate Bank Account: Once registered, open a corporate bank account in Qatar for your business finances.
C. Special Permits and Approvals: These include Foreign Investment approval from MOCI for 100% foreign ownership and Industry-specific approvals from relevant authorities.
3. Challenges and Considerations
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding Qatari Culture and local customs and traditions is vital for building relationships and networking. Women entrepreneurs may also have to navigate traditional gender role biases in business settings.
- Access to Finance: Accessing bank loans and securing Government Grants and Programs is always challenging. There is a need to build a strong credit history and demonstrate business viability while applying for loans
- Networking and Support: Women’s Business Networks and Mentorship Programs provide valuable support and networking opportunities.
4. Government Initiatives
- Qatar Development Bank (QDB): QDB offers financial and advisory services tailored to entrepreneurs, including women-owned businesses.
- Empowerment Programs: The Qatari government runs various initiatives to empower women, such as training programs, workshops, and entrepreneurship seminars.
5. Legal Rights and Protection
- Employee Rights: As an employer, it’s essential to understand Qatari labour laws, which cover employee rights, working conditions, and contracts. Women entrepreneurs must ensure compliance with these laws to avoid legal issues.
- Maternity and Family Leave: Qatar’s labour laws provide for maternity and other family-related leave, essential for businesses employing women.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Women entrepreneurs should be aware of their rights and the legal recourse available in infringement of intellectual property rights. You may protect your business ideas and innovations by registering trademarks, patents, and copyrights with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
6. Innovation and Technology: Adopting digital tools and technologies to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and increase efficiency is advisable. You may also focus on emerging sectors such as fintech green energy with growth potential.
How can Helpline Group in Qatar help?
Helpline Group in Qatar delivers practical solutions and expert consultancy services for starting a company in Qatar. With over 25 years of global experience, we excel in company setups in Qatar.
Our robust international network underscores our dedication to delivering seamless and dependable services, all backed by a team of over 300 experts.
We can be your trusted partner in supporting women’s entrepreneurship by helping women entrepreneurs set up a business in Qatar
