How to Establish a Branch Office in Doha, Qatar: A Step-by-Step Guide

January 20, 2025

How to Establish a Branch Office in Doha

Establishing a branch office in Doha will open up amazing business opportunity. Still, before you get going, it’s important to know the procedure, how to do it, and the benefits. Whether you need help to negotiate legal requirements or find offices for rent in Doha we can help you with everything.

Here is the complete guide you need to get started.

What is a Branch Office?

A branch office in Qatar enables a foreign company to execute some government or semi-government contracts. The contract so executed must be for public service or utilities.

The branch offices are not like other types of companies since they do not need a local Qatari partner and can always be fully owned by the foreign company. Furthermore, there is no minimum share capital requirement. However, unless it is specifically excluded by special exemption, a branch office is taxable.

The Documents Required for Qatar to Open a Branch Office

The following paperwork would be needed in order to open a branch office.

  1. Letter of support
  2. Contract issued by a Qatari government entity
  3. Board resolution to open the branch office
  4. Articles of Association (AoA) of the parent company
  5. Certificate of Incorporation for the parent company
  6. Copy of passport of the authorized representative
  7. Power of Attorney (authorized for the representative)
  8. Licenses from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

All of your paperwork must be notarized and legalized by Your country's Qatari Embassy. If they are not written in Arabic they must be translated by a qualified Qatari translator.

Procedure for Establishing a Branch Office in Qatar

Step 1: MOCI — apply with them (Ministry of Commerce and Industry)

The application should be presented with all of the company's and its stakeholders' information, together with the parent company's incorporation certificate, board resolution, and contracts issued by the government.

Step 2: Obtain Commercial Registration (CR):

Upon obtaining the approval from MOCI, submit the application for Commercial Registration. Simultaneously, get registered with Qatar Chamber of Commerce. The application form for CR needs to be in Arabic, which must be signed by your representatives.

Step 3: Obtain a Trade License:

Your branch will need to obtain a trade license from the Municipality before it can begin working. This is done by renting office space in Qatar for 12 months.

Step 4: Obtain a Computer Card:

Businesses are prohibited from hiring employees if they do not obtain a computer card from the Ministry of Interior. This will cost QR 200.

Step 5: Register with the Labor Department:

Register the branch in the Labor Department to apply for employee quotas and visas.

Step 6: Obtain TIN (Tax Identification Number):

Branch offices need to obtain TIN and permanent tax card. Within 30 days from the time the commercial registration has been obtained, an auditor must be appointed.

Why Open a Branch Office in Qatar?

A branch office in Doha, Qatar for companies enable them to gain access to a worldwide talent pool, a rapidly growing single market and world class infrastructure. The country is a good place for business, and if companies plan to expand within the country, the country’s pro business regulation and innovative technologies makes it a good place for companies to be in.

However, a lot of preparation and study are required to learn Qatari rules and regulations.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a serviced office for rent in Doha, visit GBC. You will get high-end facilities with expert services adapted to your business. With all the information and assistance you need, setting up a successful branch in Qatar will be a good idea for unlocking its incredible growth potential.

Take that first step today!