Sharq Law Firm > Doha, Qatar > Firm Profile
Sharq Law Firm Offices
Alfardan Office Tower, 22nd Floor
West Bay
DOHA
Qatar
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Sharq Law Firm > The Legal 500 Rankings
Qatar > Projects, real estate and construction Tier 1
‘A very strong firm, focused on doing everything within their power to get best results for clients', Sharq Law Firm‘s construction team supports clients from contract drafting matters including FIDIC-related work, to conflict resolution. Clients range from governmental bodies to high-profile financial institutions, and arbitration is a particular strength of the team. Founder and managing partner Rashid Al Saad, an expert in major infrastructure projects, co-leads alongside Abdelraouf Elbekei. A ‘stand-out’ member of the team, Josias De Salles advises contractors and developers in a range of contentious and non-contentious matters, with a focus on international arbitrations.Practice head(s):
Rashid Al Saad; Abdelraouf El Bekei
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very strong firm, focused on doing everything within their power to get best results for clients. Excellent construction arbitration team who are a delight to work with.’
‘Real team players who appreciate and value the external resources that they use to ensure clients are given the best possible service.’
‘Josias de Salles is extremely good, proactive and approachable. Exceptional work ethic, excellent strategically, knows the law, and has a very calm authoritative manner with clients. A real stand-out member of the Sharq Law team.’
Work highlights
- Representing two Claimants, the developers of a luxury real estate development in the middled, in a QICCA arbitration against a Main Contractor with dispute value in excess of QAR 1 billion.
- Representing the Respondent in a DIAC corporate arbitration seated in Cyprus with a dispute value in excess of QAR 150 million.
- Successfully represented the Respondent in a QICCA arbitration concerning the construction of 5 developments in Qatar in which the respondent was the net winner.
Qatar > Dispute resolution Tier 2
The dispute resolution team at Sharq Law Firm is ‘well-known for its dedication and provision of quality legal services‘, with experience across the banking, insurance, property and construction sectors. Founder Rashid Al Saad heads the team, with strength in cross-border matters alongside substantial experience in the corporate and commercial spheres, where respected co-head Abdelraouf Elbekei lends his expertise. Josias De Salles is recommended for his arbitration work, which has a construction focus.Practice head(s):
Rashid Al Saad; Abdelraouf Elbekei
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Sharq Law Firm Arbitration Department has extensive experience in construction dispute resolution, well-known for its dedication and provision of quality legal services.’
‘Rashid Al Saad, the managing partner, was of great support with his guidance through the process of our claim leading to the arbitration proceedings.’
‘Josias De Salles was the leading person directing and guiding the process of our arbitration proceedings. He has done excellent work in engaging the experts and coordinating their activities and managing the whole arbitral process including the communication with the other party lawyers and the tribunal.’
‘Close and clear communication, very focused on the matter, always keeping clients well-informed with attention-to-detail, persuasive techniques and good analytical skills.’
Work highlights
- Successfully represented the majority of the banks in Qatar in relation to credit facility agreements amounting to values exceeding QR 1 billion.
- Successfully represented a real estate development company in an arbitration amounting to a value of circa QR 2 billion.
- Successfully represented a high-end luxury fashion brand established in Paris regarding the registration of a trademark in the State of Qatar.
Qatar > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 3
Marwa Ali Bamatraf heads the corporate and commercial team at Sharq Law Firm, which handles a range of banking and finance matters including representing lenders, guarantors, and managers in facility agreements and bond issuances. Bamatraf advises both domestic and international clients; Rashid Al Saad, founder and managing partner, is noted for his expertise regarding major infrastructure projects and commercial transactions.Practice head(s):
Marwa Ali Bamatraf
Other key lawyers:
Rashid Al Saad; Abdelraouf Elbekei
Work highlights
- Successfully represented the majority of the banks in Qatar in relation to credit facility agreements amounting to values exceeding QR1bn.
- Acted as the Qatari counsel of BEEMA, one of the largest Takaful companies in Qatar licensed by the Qatar Central Bank in its successful conversion to a Q.S.P.C. having its shares publicly listed in the primary market of the QSE.
- Successfully restructured several companies under one holding company through M&A for the subsequent listing of the holding company in the primary market of the QSE.
Qatar > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 3
Sharq Law Firm‘s ‘very professional team’ runs the full gamut of corporate work, from regulatory compliance advice to mergers and acquisitions. The ‘excellent’ Marwa Ali Bamatraf leads the team, working with clients both international and domestic including government entities, with notable experience in the establishment and conversion of companies. Founder and managing partner Rashid Al Saad Al Kuwari brings his substantial litigation and arbitration experience to large-scale commercial transactions, including cross-border projects.Practice head(s):
Marwa Bamatraf
Other key lawyers:
Rashid Al Saad Al Kuwari
Testimonials
‘Very professional team and spot-on with solutions. Well-versed with local laws and experienced.’
‘Marwa is an excellent human being and the best lawyer I have ever seen.’
Work highlights
- Advised the State of Qatar, acting through the Ministry of Finance, on annual issuance of bonds; including reviewing and drafting prospectus, due diligence and transactional documents on a $12bn international bond issuance for five years.
- Acted as the Qatari counsel of BEEMA, one of the largest Takaful companies in Qatar licensed by the Qatar Central Bank (“QCB”), in its successful conversion to a Q.S.P.C. having its shares publicly listed in the primary market of the QSE
- Successfully restructured several companies under one holding company through M&A for the subsequent listing of the holding company in the primary market of the QSE.
Sharq Law Firm > Firm Profile
The firm: Sharq Law Firm was established in December 2014 by Rashid Al Saad Al Kuwari, the senior partner.
Sharq Law Firm is committed to driving innovation and delivering value to its clients. It fosters a firm-wide culture of focus on clients’ needs, responding to their concerns and finding specific actionable solutions to their business challenges.
The firm understands that every case is different, every client unique and because of this, the level of partner involvement is tailored to the individual needs of the client. Whatever the case, the firm is proactive, determined and systematic at every level. The firm’s size means it is large enough to handle substantial cases but small enough to offer a highly personalised service.
Areas of practice
◊ Corporate & Commercial
◊ Capital Markets
◊ Banking & finance
◊ Real estate & Construction
◊ Public Law & Regulatory
◊ Intellectual Property
◊ Arbitration & Litigation
◊ Telecoms, Media & Technology
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Management, Senior Partner | Rashid Al Saad | r.alsaad@sharqlawfirm.com | |
Partner | Litigation | Abdelraouf Elbekei | a.elbekei@sharqlawfirm.com | |
Partner | Corporate & Commercial Department | Marwa Ali Bamatraf | m.bamatraf@sharqlawfirm.com | |
Litigation, Senior Counsel | Dr. Bashir Saad Zaghloul |
Meet The Team(s)
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr Emad Abouelmaati | Associate | View Profile | |
Mr Rashid Al Saad Al Kuwari | Senior Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Omar AlManasrah | Associate | View Profile | |
Mr Mohamed Azzazi | Associate | View Profile | |
Miss Marwa Bamatraf | Partner | Corporate & Commercial Department | View Profile | |
Mr Josias De Salles | Counsel | View Profile | |
Miss Perla El Mardini | Senior Associate | View Profile | |
Mr Abdelraouf Elbekei | Partner | Litigation | View Profile | |
Mr Fady Francis | Counsel | View Profile | |
Mr Sameh Mostafa | Associate | View Profile | |
Dr Bashir Saad Zaghloul | Senior Counsel | View Profile | |
Mr Elie Sassine | Associate | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 54 Mr. Rashid Al Saad : Senior Partner Counselor Abdelraouf Elbekei : Partner | Litigation Ms. Marwa Ali Bamatraf : Partner | Corporate & Commercial Department Mr. Hassan M. Al-Marzouqi : Partner | LitigationLanguages
Arabic English FrenchMemberships
The Legal 500 Chambers and Partners IFLR 1000 LexisNexis EastLaw LextelDiversity/Community
As sophisticated as the legal market in Qatar may be, the marriage between local knowledge on the one hand and quality service at a global standard on the other hand is hardly found. Sharq Law firm is the perfect marriage of tradition and modern, local and global, youth and experience and efficiency and quality.
Sharq Law Firm is committed to the principles of diversity. We believe that by recruiting, hiring, and promoting people of different cultures and backgrounds, the quality of our work life is improved and the legal services that we provide to our clients is more creative.
Sharq Law Firm understands good business practices, so we agree that diversity in recruiting, hiring, and promoting makes good business sense for us as well as for our clients. All the partners come from different backgrounds and offer unique and valuable experiences. Furthermore, the team is a diversified one with members from different corners of the globe.
At Sharq Law Firm, diversity is not just a business practice, it reflects who we are, individually and as a firm. We hold the fundamental belief that differences in talents, backgrounds, experiences, and cultures make the practice of law not only more enjoyable but also better serve our clients by providing innovative and creative solutions for business and legal problems. Through these efforts we place value in our people and nurture their development while ensuring that all employees go through a consistent process and have equal opportunity for success.
At Sharq Law Firm, inclusion and diversity are critical to achieving our dual mission – to help our clients make substantial, lasting performance improvements and to build a firm that attracts, develops, excites, and retains exceptional people. We are committed to recruiting, developing, and promoting a diverse workforce while providing unique opportunities and career paths for our people. We recognize that differences in age, race, gender, nationality, thinking style and background bring richness to our work environments. We believe that attracting, developing and retaining a base of employees that reflects the diversity of our customers is essential to our success.
Our focus on diversity enables us to build a culture where all employees are inspired to share their passion, talents and ideas. They become part of a team that works to better serve the needs of our diverse consumers by delivering fresh thinking, product innovations and quality service.
Diversity is at the heart of our business. We strive to create a work environment that provides all our employees equal access to information, development and opportunity. By building an inclusive workplace environment, we seek to leverage our global team of associates, which is rich in diverse people, talent and ideas. We see diversity as more than just policies and practices. It is an integral part of who we are as a company, how we operate and how we see our future. We are committed to creating an environment where all employees are included, are treated with dignity and respect and are in a position to contribute to our future success. Fostering all employees passion for our business will help us win in the marketplace.
Doing Business In
Qatar | Sharq Law Firm
Economy
Qatar is one of the wealthiest and most prosperous country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). With one of the strongest GDPs in the world, Qatar also has the fastest growing economy in the GCC. The economy of Qatar is largely dominated by oil and natural gas revenues, such that it has the world’s third largest gas reserve. Despite the significant contribution oil and gas generates for the economy, Qatar has been expanding and diversifying its economy by encouraging huge development in the sectors of infrastructure, real estate, construction, petrochemicals, steel, cement, fertilizer industries, tourism, financial services and banking. Consequently, Qatar has become a magnet for expatriates and foreign investors. Leading economists have maintained that Qatar’s economy will continue to have high economic growth rate as it forges ahead with huge infrastructure investment despite the slump in oil prices. Economic indicators published by Qatar Central Bank (QCB) have evidenced continued growth. Qatar benefits from both a stable economy and currency, which effectively ensures profitability for foreign investors. Qatar’s location in the Middle East also makes it an ideal hub for access to African and Asian markets.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (‘The Ministry’) is a key regulatory authority in Qatar. It creates commercial policy for both private and public sectors to boost economy of Qatar and trade relations in the international market. The Ministry is the key responsible authority for granting trade licenses and permissions to companies, approving new commercial registrations and approving the registration of trademarks. The Ministry is also responsible for the planning and execution of the State’s general budget, monitoring the Government’s accounts and expenditure, evaluating and implementing taxation policy and coordinating with the Qatar Central Bank with respect to monetary policy. The Ministry is in charge of devising and implementing strategies for economic development as outlined in Qatar’s National Vision of 2030 (QNV 2030). Such practices have included diverting surplus revenues generated from the oil and gas industry into activities for the development of a strong private sector, a result of which has been a competitive and fast-growing financial industry. By regularly launching initiatives to sectors outside the oil and gas industry, the Ministry demonstrates its pledge in diversifying Qatar’s economy.
Business environment
Qatar maintains an exceptional business environment for both local and foreign investors that is cultivated by friendly external and internal factors. The political system of Qatar is an absolute monarchy, with the Emir of Qatar as Head of State and Head of Government. Current Emir of Qatar is His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani. According to Article 1 of the Permanent Constitution of Qatar, Sharia Law is the main source of Qatari legislation. The judiciary is independent from the government and is principally divided into two court systems. The first, civil, commercial and criminal system, and second, the Sharia’a system, which administers Islamic law, including matters pertaining to marriage, divorce, child support, succession and some criminal offences. Qatar benefits from having relatively low political, economic, and business security-related risks, factors which influence inward foreign direct investment. It has one of the lowest levels of corruption in the GCC, hence it was not surprising when Qatar’s attorney general was nominated as head of the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities. In the recently published Index of Economic Freedom, Qatar ranked 36 out of 185 countries with a score of 68.6. Factors that were taken into account to determine this score included, but were not limited to, judicial effectiveness, government integrity and investment freedom. As a member of the World Trade Organisation, Qatar benefits from trade agreements which, in effect, complement investment initiatives. Qatar offers several strengths that investors can depend on to set up a successful business: advanced education and healthcare, reliable telecommunications, innovative infrastructure, extensive transport links, low corporate income tax and more.
FIFA World Cup 2022
The ground-breaking event which took place in Qatar and for the first time in a Arab country, contrary to the belief of several, has succeeded in joining the East and West, where we have witnessed the love and coordination between people of different regions of the world; increasing the international focus on Qatar. Achievement of both of these premium objectives have called for a huge construction, property and infrastructure development in the country and financial injections by the local government, and local and foreign investors. The attractiveness of Qatar was raised after winning the bid to host the World Cup and its subsequent success in providing an unforgettable experience. Undoubtedly, this opportunity has created economic benefits across multiple sectors. In fact, development projects in Qatar’s hospitality, tourism and retail sectors will have long-lasting effects.
Limited Liability Company
There are various structures used to engage in business, Law No.11 of 2015 (“Commercial Companies Law”) recognises seven vehicles that can be used in Qatar. The most common structure is the limited liability structure. Many companies adopt this structure due to the shareholders liability only being limited to the money they have spent on the company. Therefore, personal assets such as properties and vehicles cannot be ceased in the event of the company entering into complications and being unable to pay off its debts. Moreover, limited liability companies do not require a minimum share capital as was previously required under the old companies’ law therefore making it much easier for establishment. In light of the issuance of Law No. (1) of 2019 Regulating the Investment of Foreign Capital in Economic Activity (the “Foreign Investment Law”), one of the benefits the legislative has provided foreign investors with is the recent ability to establish a company without the need of having a Qatari partner holding 51% of the share capital. Historically, for companies desiring to incorporate under the Ministry, the Qatari legislator has always mandated for non-Qataris to require a local Qatari partner owning 51% of the company share capital prior to issuing a commercial register in Qatar’s mainland. In light of Qatar’s 2030 vision and the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022 placing Qatar on the world map, the Qatari legislator has consciously endeavored to negate any barriers to entry which foreign investors previously had mainly the requirement to require a local Qatari partner. This historical change came with the backdrop of equally important legislations concerning the labour and social fabric of the Qatari society which was all geared at creating a global business hub attracting and maintaining foreign investment. Although the previous law regulating the investment of foreign capital in the economic sector provided for the exception of having a Qatari partner owning 51% of the share capital, the previous law had limited the fields in which this could be achieved; however, the new law issued in 2019 broadened this scope by rather than limiting the fields in which foreign investors can establish companies of having up to 100% of the shares, it limited the fields in which foreign investors cannot establish 100% owned companies as
Article 2 of the Foreign Investment Law provides:
“Without prejudice to the legislation regulating the practice of non-Qatari businesses and professions, and the provisions of Article (4) of this law, the non-Qatari investor may invest in all economic sectors up to 100% of the capital, as determined by the executive regulations of this law.”
And Article 4 of the Foreign Investment Law provides:
“A foreign investor is prohibited from investing in the following areas:
- Banks and insurance companies, except for those exempted by a decision of the Council of Ministers.
- Commercial agencies.
- Any other fields for which a decision of the Council of Ministers is issued.”
Although the general procedure remains the same, the Foreign Investment Law has placed additional requirements further enhancing the current steps, which can broadly be illustrated as follows:
- Reserving company name at the Ministry;
- Submitttng supporting documents to the Business Development & Investment Promotion Department at the Ministry which include:
- Business Plan;
- Market Analysis;
- Financial Analysis Documents; and
- Operational Analysis.
- Submitting the good conduct certificate and the CV of the partners;
- Completing the Non-Qatari Investment License Application;
- Drafting and submitting the company’s Articles of Association;
- Obtaining approval of the Articles of Association from the Companies Control Department;
- Signing the Articles of Association on at the Ministry of Justice; and
- Submitting application requesting the Issuance of a new Commercial Register.
Moreover, GCC nationals may incorporate 100% owned companies without needing to utilize the Foreign Investment Law. In such cases, the ordinary route will be followed accompanied by a letter to the Commercial Registration and Licenses Department at the Ministry requesting for an exemption.
o Free Zones
In addition to the commercial arrangements stated above, foreign investors can incorporate a company in Qatar’s Free Zones. Free Zones are special economic or trade areas with a separate regime of incorporating a company in which a foreign investor can have 100% ownership, without the requirement of a local sponsor. Companies in Free Zones can benefit from the freedom to trade in foreign currency, subsidized rates on leasing property and tax exemptions. There are currently two such Free Zones in Qatar: the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) and the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and more free economic zones are planned for future development. The QFC caters to professional and financial services companies and firms, and QSTP to technology companies or start-ups that contribute to technology development and training. The strategic location of Free Zones makes them an attractive forum for foreign investors.
OTSP
The QSTP has a special free zone status and is a centre of research and commercial excellence for scientific development and regionally produced intellectual property for both Qatari and international partners. The QSTP promotes the research and commercialization of technology projects and training.
QFC
The QFC was established by the government in 2005 to offer an alternative to local and foreign investors seeking to set up businesses in Qatar through the Companies Law No. 5 of 2002. It was created to set a legal and regulatory system parallel to the Courts system in Qatar. Since its establishment, the QFC has succeeded in a large part in fulfilling its objective of becoming a world class business and financial centre of the highest professional calibre in the region and in the world. It offers a transparent, professional, and first-class regulatory regime and legal system that is based on English common law (most countries in the Middle East base their laws on civil law). The QFC was designed to reflect the English legal system and therefore the QFC courts, laws, procedures, formalities are all conducted in English making it more uncomplicated for companies wishing to establish themselves in the Qatar. Companies have access to an independent judiciary in the form of the Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre. It should be noted that only few laws apply in the QFC, such as Central Bank Law and criminal laws.
QFC companies are permitted to undertake activities which have been divided into two categories: Financial Services and Non-financial Services. The Financial Services include banking, asset management, insurance/reinsurance, investment advice and investment services, and fiduciary businesses. Non-financial services include, but is not limited to, the business of providing professional services, such as audit, accounting, tax, consulting and legal services, investment grading, and ship broking and shipping agents.
The QFC has also established an independent statutory compliance office for the businesses registered under QFC called the Employment Standards Office. Its main objective is to protect both employers and employees through robust regulations, codes and procedures.
Legal system, laws and regulations
According to Article 1 of the Permanent Constitution of Qatar, Sharia Law is the main source of Qatari legislation. The judiciary is independent from the government and is principally divided into two court systems. The first, civil, commercial and criminal system, and second, the Sharia’a system, which administers Islamic law, including matters pertaining to marriage, divorce, child support, succession and some criminal offences.
Investors should be mindful of laws that shape the way business is conducted in Qatar. The general rule is that 51% of the capital of a business venture is to be owned by Qatari citizens or by entities fully owned by Qatari citizens. However, the Law provides that foreign ownership may be increased from 49% to 100% through a decision passed by the Minister of Commerce and Industry with the exception of the above-stated sectors.
The implementation of new laws and regulation as well as amendments to existing laws that all investors should know about:
Previously under the old foreign investment law, (Law No. (13) of 2000), a foreign company wishing to register under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry was required to have a Qatari partner holding 51% of the share capital as previously mentioned. The recently enacted foreign investment law brings about further flexibility to the law meaning that the requirement for a Qatari partner is no longer needed, with some exceptions. Investors should be aware that Qatar is seeking to become an attractive destination for investors to invest in, therefore investors should expect the law to become more adaptable when regulating foreign investments into Qatar.
Restrictions and considerations
Despite the wide range of benefits in doing business in Qatar, there are some noteworthy constraints and legal formalities which affect the business environment. Even with the numerous initiatives introduced to promote foreign investors’ progress in some areas has been slow. In the recent World Bank rankings for Ease of Doing Business Qatar ranks 108 out of 190 economies. Even with the amendment of existing measures and introduction of new incentives, there are restrictions discourage foreign investors.
Regulatory environment – GCC
Qatar complies with many regulations on tax and customs introduced by the GCC. Investors must consider and assess the implications of recent amendments to VAT regulations and custom duties.
Commercial Leases
The need to establish a regular legal presence may involve the requirement of a registered office. Depending on the nature of the business and location, this could mean costly commercial leases.
Immigration and Employment
Immigration and employment laws constitute a significant concern for new and established entrants to Qatar, both for employers and employees alike. There are a variety of different visas and permits obtainable in Qatar, dependent on the individual’s status.
Non-Qatari workers may not be employed unless they hold a valid work permit. Work permits are obtained from the Department of Labour in the Ministry of Labor after fulfilling various immigration formalities with the Ministry of Interior, including production of a local employment contract and meeting the following conditions:
- The non-availability of a qualified Qatari worker registered in the registers of the Department to carry out the work in respect of which the work permit is applied for;
- The non-Qatari applying for the work permit shall be in possession of a residence permit;
- The non-Qatari national shall be medically fit.
Work visas are issued to private entities, companies, and individual sponsorships, which need to be approved by Ministry of Interior. The fee and collection of visas is taken care of by the sponsor.
Expatriates require a business visa, they are valid for a specified number of days. Passport holders of certain countries can obtain a business visa on arrival. A company or a recognized establishment must submit an application to the Immigration Department. However, the visa is subject to laws concerning entry and residency of foreigners and resolutions taken in that matter.
Law No. (13) of 2018 removed the requirement of an exit permit for employees within their work contract duration. This provision can only apply to 5% of a company’s workforce.
Current opportunities & future prospects
The government of Qatar acknowledges that for successful achievement of QNV 2030 an increased foreign investment is necessary. They continuously aim to provide foreign investors with lucrative incentives and exemptions to make Qatar a more investor friendly, free and liberalized environment. A flexible and relaxed visa process accompanied with no personal income tax has fostered a large foreign workforce. Awarding government projects to foreign investors and the introduction of more legal rights for foreign companies has also been encouraging. In light of the Foreign Investment Law removing the minimum share capital requirement in setting up an LLC, this outlined the government’s intentions to give foreigners the right to enjoy full ownership of their business by 2022.
The government has initiated recent changes which have positively impacted the way business is conducted in Qatar and this has created several advantages for those doing business. The Ministry regularly publishes new initiatives online to inform investors of the opportunities available. At present, Qatar is evidencing a number of other major initiatives and projects. In 2023, 22 new projects totaling US$2.7 billion are expected to be awarded under Qatar’s 2050 Transport Plan alone.
Major projects like the following two may be contracted in 2023:
The second phase of the Doha Metro Project include building the Blue Line, an addition to the existing Doha Metro network.
Hamad International Airport and Katara Cultural Village will be connected by the multi-billion dollar Sharq Bridge, a three-part bridge with underwater tunnels connecting them.
FIFA recently lauded the World Cup 2022 infrastructure as being excellent and impressive, praising in particular the power plants’ exceptional performance in terms of quality, adaptability, and dependability.
In a formal certificate of appreciation sent to the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa), the world’s governing body of football stated that Kahramaa’s thorough operations planning, high-quality investments, and extensive infrastructure development for the competition in cooperation with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) allowed for timely full readiness.
Years of working together with Kahramaa gave FIFA trust in the event’s electrical infrastructure, which led to no observable problems or outages during the tournament and flawless network operation.
With its modern motorways, metro system, universities, Museum of Islamic Art, and spectacular new National Museum of Qatar, Qatar has quickly built its infrastructure, making its city a well-liked tourist destination.
At the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the Lusail Iconic Stadium, which hosted the championship match, the Stadium 974, and the Al Bayt stadium all served as exhibits for architectural wonders.
The incredible 100+ brand-new hotels that have opened in and around the city were also noted by Resonance Consultancy. These include two Waldorf Astoria hotels in addition to the Fairmont and Raffles Doha, which are both located inside the U-shaped Katara Tower.
Taxation
In the World Bank rankings for Ease of Doing Business 2019, Qatar is ranked 3 out of 190 in a specific category of ‘Paying Taxes’. The tax regime of Qatar is regulated under Law No. (24) of 2018 Issuing the Income Tax Law (the “Income Tax Law”). Article 7 of the Income Tax Law provides:
“The taxable income is determined on the basis of the total income arising from all transactions carried out by the taxpayer, after deducting the permissible deductions and losses stipulated in this article.
Allowed deductions mean expenses and costs incurred by the taxpayer, which meet the following conditions:
- It must be necessary to achieve the total income.
- It must have been borne in an actual capacity and supported by documents.
- Not to increase the value of the fixed assets used in the activity.
- It should be related to the tax year.
The taxpayer may deduct the losses incurred during the tax year from the net income for subsequent years.
All of this is in the manner specified by the regulations”
The generally applied corporate tax rate is 10%. However, the law provides for different tax rates in specified cases, such 35% rate applies to oil and gas operations. Taxes are calculated on an annual basis.
Property
In light of Law No. (16) of 2018 Regulating the Ownership and Use of Real Estate by non-foreigners, foreigners can own and usufruct and property in areas based on conditions, limitations, benefits, and procedures issued by a decision of the Council of Ministers based on the proposal of the Committee Regulating the Foreign Ownership and Use of Real Estate and in any case, the right of use granted to the foreign owner upon that person’s death and is transferred to the heirs, unless the parties agree otherwise. The right of usufruct for foreign owners is for 99 years, capable of being renewed.
Owning property is permitted within the following areas:
Area | Zone |
West Bay (Legtaifiya) | 66 |
The Pearl | 66 |
Al Khor Resort | 74 |
Al Gassar (administrative area) | 60 |
Al Dafna (administrative area) | 61 |
Al Onaiza (administrative area) | 63 |
Lusail | 69 |
Al Kharayej | 69 |
Fox Hills | 69 |
This has been a substantive increase in which previously, foreigners could only hold property interests in the Pearl, West Bay Lagoon and Al Khor.
In regard to the right of usufruct of foreigners, the following areas are permitted:
Area | Zone |
Musheireb | 13 |
Fareej Abdel Aziz | 14 |
New Doha | 15 |
Old Ghanem | 16 |
Old Rifa and Al Hitmi | 17 |
Al Salata | 18 |
Fareej bin Mahmoud | 22 |
Fareej bin Mahmoud | 23 |
Rawdat Al Khail | 24 |
Al Mansoora and Fareej bin Derham | 25 |
Al Najma | 26 |
Umm Ghuwailina | 27 |
Al Khalifat | 28 |
Al Sadd | 38 |
New Al Mirqab and Fareej Al Nasr | 39 |
Airport Area | 40 |
What to know before investing
Politics
Qatar benefits from having a stable and competent government. Investors should familiarise themselves with the ministries in the government that regulate different aspects of their business and take advantage of the incentives available.
Economic growth
The effects of diversification have contributed to a positive growth rate and nurture a business-friendly environment.
Incorporation
Seek specialist advise to determine which business structure is best suited for you.
Property Rights
The strengthening of property rights and interests for non-Qataris has helped to reduce uncertainty and promote foreign investment.
Visa requirements
Always check the government’s Ministry of Interior website to ensure you meet the requirements. The law changes, so it is important to keep up to date.
Culture and Religion
Qatar is a Muslim country that welcomes people from all around the world to live, work and invest in the country. Developing connections based on mutual respect and the understanding of cultural differences serves as a foundation for successful and prosperous business relationships.
Interviews
Rashid Al Saad, Senior Partner
Sharq Law Firm has crossed several milestones in the legal community of the Qatari market as it has reached a high level of recognition being considered as one of Qatar’s leading law firms. However, a company is only as extraordinary as its people and Sharq Law Firm is as extraordinary as its Founder and Senior Partner, Mr. Rashid Al Saad. As a leader to each and every employee at Sharq Law Firm and the most dependable legal avenue for his clients, he guides the firm’s strategic vision of becoming a top-tier law firm, both locally and internationally, through adopting the most innovative approaches and realizing ground-breaking outcomes. One of the pillars of the firm’s success arises from Mr. Al Saad’s wide legal experience in the different fields of law; including managing the Litigation, Arbitration, and Corporate & Commercial departments. Through his experience, he has become vastly knowledgeable in major infrastructure projects and large-scale commercial transactions, particularly cross-border transactions and ventures in the State of Qatar and abroad. Mr. Al Saad has greatly provided his contribution to the Qatari legal system as he has been instrumental in drafting and negotiating agreements for some of the most innovative transactions as well as representing clients in several high-stake and complex cases. What distinguishes Mr. Al Saad and allows for the great achievements of Sharq Law Firm is his ability to pilot the firm in a way which incorporates the different fields of law by creating a pool of lawyers with different legal experiences and specializations in cases and transactions to ensure that all legal aspects required in any matter that may be presented to us are covered. This is in addition to his strong connections and knowledge in the Qatari market which provides clients with the best possible outcome. Furthermore, Mr. Al Saad is acknowledged for providing innovative solutions which combine the commercial needs of the clients in line with the legal requirements of complex and novel transactions. With an excellent legal base, a unique perspective in the field of law, and a distinguished and creative approach, Mr. Al Saad is the head of Sharq Law Firm as he ensures that a top-class result is achieved. Through his commitment to guaranteeing that only the highest quality of services is presented, his dedication to his firm and team, and his passion for the law, Mr. Al Saad has established himself as one of the most noteworthy senior partners. Through this interview, Sharq Law Firm’s Senior Partner, Mr. Rashid Al Saad provides us with an insight on the Qatari legal system and the current market trends.What do you see as the main points that differentiate Sharq Law Firm from your competitors?
Situated in one of the world’s most prominent countries and fast-growing economies, Sharq Law Firm prides itself on being one of Qatar’s leading and most prestigious law firms. Through Qatar’s 2030 vision of becoming “an advanced society capable of sustaining its development and providing a high standard of living for its people”, Sharq Law Firm serves as an instrument to achieve that vision.
Sharq Law Firm a full-service law firm, providing legal advice and expertise regarding a wide-range of matters as it dedicates itself to providing clients with excellent services.
Within our litigation department, these services include representing clients before the Civil Court of First Instance, the Court of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation, representing clients before the Court of First Instance for Misdemeanours and Felonies, the Court of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation, representing clients before the Rental Dispute Resolution Committee, representing clients before the Labor Dispute Resolution Committee, and representing clients before the Public Prosecution and police stations.
The representation of clients includes, but is not limited to, the following claims and authorities:
- Banking and insurance claims;
- Property claims;
- Claims in bankruptcy;
- All commercial and civil disputes;
- Attending prosecution investigations and submitting criminal complaints and grievances Committee
- Claims arising from contracts, including, but not limited to, contracting, construction, and commercial contracts;
- Financial claims suits for companies or individuals alike;
- Claims arising from infringements of intellectual property rights;
- Claims related to cybersecurity and protecting private data; and
- Representing clients before the Public Prosecution and police stations.
Within our corporate and commercial department, these services are not limited to however include restructuring companies, advising international and local clients on the structure management and the internal governance of organizations, conducting due diligence in M&As, representing lenders, guarantors, and managers in facility agreements and bond issuance including both public and private entities, banking and finance, preparing facility agreements and advising on the listing of companies on the Qatar Stock Exchange, and issuing bonds.
In regard to our Arbitration and Construction team, we pride ourselves on providing consultations to avoid conflicts and therefore solve them via alternative measures, drafting, reviewing and providing consultations with regards to all key construction contracts (including FIDIC contracts, engineering and construction contracts, and drafting contracts for governmental departments and project owners in designing the forms of their contracts), and providing legal advice in regard to the risks that may arise from contract formation.
Our industry sector expertise is within the following: accounting, automotive, banking, consumer goods and services, energy, entertainment, financial services, food and beverage, government and public policy, healthcare, industrials and manufacturing, insurance, investment management, logistics, media, natural resources, oil and gas, real estate, social infrastructure, sports, technology and telecommunications, tourism, and transport.
We pride ourselves on placing the needs of our clients above all else and ensuring that a first-rate outcome is achieved. Our team of proficient, qualified, and diverse lawyers provide a valuable and novel insight of legal knowledge which allows them to be apt in handling a variety of complex matters both in the Qatari market and internationally.
As a leading law firm, we aim to work on deals and transactions that have never been raised in the Qatari market as we do not believe in simply following precedents but rather setting precedents. As a full flag service law firm, innovation is one of our key strengths; a quality we have achieved that makes us stand out from others. We aim to always take forward cases, deals, and transactions that are relatively new to the Qatari legal system as we believe in the importance of the impact they will achieve in the world. We make it our first and foremost responsibility to never give up on the proceedings of every matter that has been presented to us as we eventually set precedents on articles and transactions that have never been tested or carried in the Qatari market.
This approach is followed by all our departments; whether our Corporate and Commercial Department, our Litigation Department, or our Arbitration and Construction Department and we continue to follow this approach as we believe in the mark that our firm will leave not only on Qatar, but on the Middle East as well.
Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?
As Qatar’s economy continues to grow, it is considered one of the fastest-growing economies not only in the Middle East, but in the world. This therefore results in an array of new and exciting projects, and never-before seen advancements in the legal practice. We have seen a wide development in the corporate side of the market as we have acted as the local counsel for Qatar’s first ever reverse acquisition. First of its kind in light of the recent Law No. (8) of 2021 amending the Commercial Companies Law, in addition to the Qatar Financial Markets Authority’s (QFMA) Board Decision No. (4) of 2020 Concerning the Issuance of Offering & Listing of Securities on the Financial Markets Rulebook, which introduces the acquisition by share swap, this deal has been established as being both innovative and novel. Through this transaction, we have provided an insight, a legal base, and a kind of precedent for future transactions regarding reverse acquisitions in Qatar. We have also seen impressive growth in IPOs and companies’ listing on the primary and secondary market of the Qatar Stick Exchange. Moreover, as Qatar continues to be a hub for investors wishing to gain from its natural reserves, and in light of the hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022 and the Arab Cup 2022 and the issuance of Law No. (1) of 2019 Promulgating the Investment of Foreign Capital in Economic Activity allowing foreigners to establish companies in Qatari without the condition of having a Qatari partner (except in certain fields specified by the law), there has been a substantive increase in the establishment of foreign companies within the jurisdiction of Qatar and the Qatar Financial Center (“QFC”). There has also been a tremendous growth in the trademarks, trade data, trade names, copyright, geographical indications and industrial designs and models, especially as Qatar prepares for the 2023-2024 Horticultural Expo, the AFC Asian Cup 2023, the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2024, and the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix. Since Qatar has established itself as one of the leading forums for sports events, we aim to see several developments in the field of sports as well.
This is in addition to several companies and individuals opting the use of arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism allowing parties the ability of choosing the arbitration seat, jurisdiction, and language used which is considered beneficial especially for foreign companies.
Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?
Sharq Law Firm is the first Qatari law firm that has become paper-less throughout all its departments; especially within our Litigation Department which usually requires the most amount of paper due to the large volume of case files and issued judgements. As such, we sought to find a way to minimize the wide use of the amount of paper that is being consumed as thus we developed the software in which the case files are incorporated in the software and are accessible online to all the team members working on the case. We therefore coordinated with the owner to customize a tailored software which allows Qatari law firms to meet all of the clients’ needs through paperless means to the point that even the outcomes of hearings can now immediately reach the client via text. The software also incorporates the electronic signature which has facilitated matters that require signature achieving the aim of a paperless working environment.
Moreover, after the Covid-19 pandemic, we have introduced remote working and incorporated the required technological means to assure that our clients’ needs are met, and they are not deprived of their rights in the wake of the obstacles that the pandemic has impeded in.
Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?
We at Sharq Law Firm value our client’s interests and are committed to ensuring that their cases and matters are handled as smoothly as possible; this is why we have incorporated in our daily tasks the measure of providing our clients with updates regarding the legal services we provide them with; which is considered both time and cost-effective for them.
Moreover, we make it our responsibility to follow-up on any concerns our clients may have, as we provide them with more than they request through ensuring their entire benefit rather than simply what is asked from us. When attending to our clients we look at the bigger picture as our knowledge on legal procedures is supplemented by commercial awareness. We ensure that all departments/teams are able to advise on business while understanding the commercial objective of the client in providing the legal advice. We offer value added seminars to educate our clients on legal updates. In addition, we publish newsletters, articles and legal reviews for our clients at no extra cost. We also spread awareness on legal updates and information through different platforms including social media, journals and newspapers that are easily accessible to the general public. All our clients receive a personalized service which is tailored to their specific needs and requirements, for instance, we also have created new packages for start-ups in Qatar which enable SMEs to commence their businesses with a basic legal structure by providing a set of templates for the essential requirements relating to each SME.
Senior Partner Rashid Al Saad also explained the practical example of organizing a free of cost workshop for a firms’ clients tailored to educate and train their employees in Qatari law. Prior to the workshop, their employees were educated in different legal systems based on common law, hence the workshop was highly beneficial for the client as it focused on the skills required.
Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?
Sharq Law Firm has and continues to substantially grow as the leading local law firm in Qatar. We attribute our success to several factors, such our distinguished team of professional lawyers, our immense experience in the Qatari market, but first and foremost putting the needs and success of our clients before our own. We believe that we are only as successful as the clients who put their faith in us; as they are the founding steps to the growth and development of our firm. When a client chooses us to be their voice in an array of legal cases and matters, we ensure that we use that voice at the top of our lungs to ensure that their concerns are heard and solved. At the time being, this voice has been the loudest in the Qatari market; however, in three years’ time we aim not only to be the top law firm in Qatar, but the top law firm in the Middle East.
- Projects, real estate and construction
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution