QFC Cuts Application Fees by 90%; To Stimulate Growth and Ease Entry

The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has substantially reduced the application fee for licensing to $500 from as high as $5,000.

The 90% cut in fee applies to all applicants seeking a licence to conduct non-regulated activities in the QFC, except for the activities of single family offices.

The decision to reduce the application fee aligns with QFC’s broader strategy to create an optimal environment for businesses of all sizes and reflects a commitment to simplifying business set-up to drive economic growth.

By offering a more competitive fee, the QFC is making market entry easier for startups, SMEs (small and medium enterprises), and global companies seeking to expand into Qatar’s dynamic market.

"This significant reduction in our application fee is one of many steps we are taking to make the QFC an even more attractive platform for businesses looking to establish operations in Qatar and the region. We expect this initiative to further enhance Qatar’s position as a leading business destination and encourage more entrepreneurs to take the first step towards launching their ventures," said Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive officer, QFC Authority.

This pivotal initiative follows the previously implemented company-incorporation process that enables applicants to instantly establish an entity and obtain a license to conduct non-regulated activities in the QFC, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

By lowering financial barriers to entry, QFC is enabling more businesses to establish and operate with ease and confidence in a world-class jurisdiction.

As a gateway for businesses to Qatar and the region, QFC continues to invest in strengthening its regulatory framework and support services.

The platform offers a wide range of competitive benefits, including an onshore jurisdiction, legal and judicial frameworks based on common law, up to 100% foreign ownership, a competitive and transparent tax system, double taxation agreements with over 80 jurisdictions, a 10% corporate tax on locally sourced profits, 100% repatriation of profits, the freedom to trade in any currency, and a streamlined licensing process.