Legal Framework
From The Report: Qatar 2016
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This chapter contains an outline of the legal framework in which local and foreign investors operate in Qatar, including the rules and regulations for foreign investors, the guidelines for incorporating a new company, a rundown of the foreign property ownership laws and regulations, and a review of the new changes to the Labour Law.

This chapter contains a viewpoint from James Elwen, Partner and Head of Qatar Office, Pinsent Masons.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

A guideline for investors: Rules governing foreign investment and company registration
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Companies intending to carry out business in Qatar must have a legal presence in the state. This may be by virtue of a company, branch office, trade representative office or agency relationship. Incorporating a company is usually the most suitable approach if the foreign investor intends to have a long-term presence in Qatar. The type of company to be incorporated depends on various factors. According to Qatar’s Foreign Investment Law No. 13 of 2000, with a few limited exceptions, companies in…

Analysis

A comprehensive review: Important changes have been made to Qatar’s labour laws
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Qatar’s Labour Law (Law No. 14 of 2004) and the implementing ministerial resolutions thereof apply to all individuals working in Qatar. The law provides a body of regulations outlining the legal rights, restrictions and obligations of workers, employers and workers’ committees. Qatar’s labour laws are given particular attention both by the global media and Qatar’s residents alike, given the high number of expatriate workers in the state. The laws apply to around 2m foreigners who…

Viewpoint

Effective partnerships: James Elwen, Partner and Head of Qatar Office, Pinsent Masons, on changes in project financing and the impact of declining oil prices
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The Qatari economy, together with all of the other GCC countries, has been affected by the recent economic changes, most notably the fall in oil prices coupled with volatility in the stock markets after China devalued its currency. Due to its vast natural gas reserves and emphasis on liquefied natural gas exports, Qatar is one of the best placed in the region to weather the situation. Yet 2016 will be a challenging year for the financing and procurement of new projects, which are essential if the…

Analysis

A beneficial relationship: Guidelines and requirements for joint ventures
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Joint ventures (JVs) are a common corporate structure chosen by contractors in Qatar. Two companies interested in pursuing a project together often form a JV to increase their chances of being awarded the contract and to share the cost and risk of performing it. The JV structure provides companies with the opportunity to bid for projects they would not otherwise have been technically or financially capable of tendering for. Types Of JVs Qatari law recognises particular forms of companies and sets…