🇶🇦 Qatar (QFC) vs 🇶🇦 Qatar (Mainland)
A side-by-side look at setting up a company in Qatar (QFC) (QFC LLC) and Qatar (Mainland) (WLL), plus 3 regulatory differences to plan for if you operate in both.
| Criterion | Qatar (QFC) | Qatar (Mainland) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vehicle | QFC LLC | WLL |
| Foreign ownership | 100% | Up to 100% with MOCI approval |
| Minimum capital | No statutory minimum | QAR 200,000 typical |
| Time to incorporate | 10–20 days | 20–45 days |
| Corporate tax | 10% | 10% on foreign share |
| VAT / GST | None (VAT pending) | None (VAT pending) |
| Dividend withholding | 0% | 0% |
| Resident director | Not required | Conditional |
| Physical office | Flexi-desk accepted | Required |
| Annual running cost | USD 5,000–12,000 | USD 8,000–18,000 |
| Audit | Mandatory | Mandatory |
| Legal system | English common law (QFC courts) | Civil law (Qatari courts) |
| Currency controls | None | None |
Operating in both: key conflicts
medium
Data transfer: Divergent transfer safeguards required
Transfers between these jurisdictions need documented safeguards (SCCs or equivalent) and a transfer impact assessment.
medium
Employment: Termination regimes conflict
Notice periods and end-of-service entitlements differ; localise the termination and severance clauses.
low
Governance: Resident director requirements differ
One jurisdiction requires a resident director. Appointing the same individual in both can undermine the substance position of the other entity.
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Figures are indicative and change often. Not legal or tax advice — confirm with qualified counsel.