How to Set Up a Trade Representative Office in Qatar

April 17, 2025

office for rent in Qatar

The highly successful economy of Qatar and friendly business policies have made the country a prime location for foreign business to expand its operations. While you may not be prepared yet to establish a full-fledged business operation, but would like to have a presence, it is a prudent move to establish a Trade Representative Office (TRO).

A Trade Representative Office is a representative for your company in a foreign country and future customers or business partners in Qatar. It can promote your brand and receive market insight but cannot sell and sign contracts on your behalf. So how do you set one up?

What Is a Trade Representative Office?

A Trade Representative Office (TRO) is a business setup that allows foreign companies to establish a presence in Qatar without commercial activities like selling or importing goods. Think of it as a marketing and communication hub. You can use it to explore the Qatari market, build connections, and promote your products or services.

Key Benefits:

  • ✅ 100% foreign ownership – no Qatari partner needed
  • 💰 No share capital requirement
  • 🏢 Can serve as a stepping stone to setting up a full-fledged Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • 📢 Helps raise brand awareness in Qatar
  • 🤝 Acts as a liaison with potential customers or suppliers
  • 🚫 However, TROs can’t engage in trade, sign contracts, or carry out marketing campaigns locally.

Steps to Set Up a Trade Office in Qatar

1. Pick a Business Location:

You’ll first need to decide where you want to set up—on the mainland or in a free zone. Make sure the location suits your business needs and offers room for growth.

2. Get Approvals:

Next, you’ll need approval from Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This includes submitting an application and other required documents.

3. Secure an Office Space:

You must rent a physical office in Qatar. If you’re looking for a hassle-free setup, consider options like serviced offices for rent or premium offices for rent, which come fully furnished with business support.

4. Recruit Staff & Set Up Equipment:

Hire employees as needed and install the necessary office equipment—computers, internet, phone lines, etc.

5. Start Operations:

Promote your brand, meet potential partners, and begin market research and relationship building. This is your soft launch into the Qatari market.

Required Documents

To register your TRO, you’ll need:

  • 1. A completed application form
  • 2. Commercial registration and articles of association from your parent company
  • 3. Board resolution and power of attorney
  • 4. Proof of address
  • 5. An official declaration from your head office accepting responsibility for the TRO’s activities

All documents must be attested and translated into Arabic.

Timeline & Setup Process

Once documents are submitted in Qatar, basic approvals and registrations usually take 2–3 weeks. Immigration procedures and QID issuance for foreign employees can take another 10–12 days. The TRO also needs to register with the municipality, get a lease agreement, and apply for a tax exemption through a certified auditor.

Why Consider a Trade Representative Office?

TROs offer a low-risk way to explore new markets and understand local demand. They simplify business expansion and help avoid the upfront costs and commitments of launching a full company.

Looking for office space for rent in Qatar to launch your trade office?

At Global Business Centre (GBC) in Doha, we offer fully equipped office space for rent tailored to growing businesses. Whether you need a small desk, a large suite, or just a respected business address, our spaces are perfect for launching your representative office in Qatar.