Register your own company in Qatar for free under QFC Web Summit initiative

Doha: The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) introduced a special initiative enabling Web Summit Qatar attendees to set up companies on the QFC platform, offering significant cost incentives to attract technology-focused startups and entrepreneurs.

In an interview with The Peninsula, QFC representative Abdullah Alsuliti explained that Web Summit ticket holders can begin the process by visiting the QFC pavilion and scanning a dedicated QR code to access the “Start Your Setup” form. 

View of the Qatar Financial Center booth at Web Summit Qatar 2026. Mahmoud Elmazaty/The Peninsula

Applicants must provide their Web Summit ticket number and basic personal details to initiate the application.

According to Al Suliti, eligible businesses must be structured as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and include at least one technology-related activity from the permitted list. 

Fintech firms may select up to nine sub-activities, while other applicants can choose up to five, provided one is tech-related. Media-related applicants seeking fee waivers are advised to coordinate with Media City Qatar representatives at the Startup Qatar Pavilion.

He further noted that the package can represent savings of around $155,500 for founders. “The offer includes a free licence for three years and a waiver on the usual application fee. Under normal circumstances, the application fee is about $500 and the annual licence renewal is approximately $5,000,” he said.

“Companies registered under QFC are subject to a 10% corporate tax on net profits,” he added.

Alsuliti confirmed that “the framework requires at least one shareholder to hold a valid Qatar residence permit, although a Qatari partner is not required.”

He further explained that QFC also provides support through its client affairs teams to coordinate procedures with relevant authorities, including residency and documentation processes.

Officials said interest in the scheme has been strong, with many Web Summit visitors exploring Qatar as a base for regional operations. 

The move aligns with Qatar’s broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen its technology and innovation ecosystem.

How to register:


• Scan the QFC booth QR code at Web Summit

•  Fill in the Start Your Setup form (Web Summit ticket number required)

•  Receive a secure link if your activity is eligible

•  Complete Part 1 of the online application

•  Complete Part 2 and eKYC verification

•  Obtain a licence upon approval

•  Get assigned an account manager for onboarding and post-registration support

Key points you must know:

• Company must be an LLC

• At least one selected activity must be technology-related

• Up to 5 sub-activities allowed (9 for fintech)

• Temporary registered office address available for up to 3 months (QFC Tower option)

• Firms inactive for over 6 months risk licence withdrawal and deregistration

• Tax credit eligibility follows QFC Tax Manual rules and does not remove filing obligations

• Firms must still register for tax, file returns, and submit financial statements

• A registered QFC office and a Qatar-resident Senior Executive Function holder are required

• Some activities require Professional Indemnity Insurance

• Compliance with QFC Data Protection Regulations is mandatory

• Annual returns, audited statements, and mandatory registers must be maintained