Guide for Women Entrepreneurs: Starting Your Business in Qatar with Top Business Consulting Companies in Qatar

Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al-Thani, Deputy CEO of Qatar Financial Centre, and Noof Al Marri, founder of Kashta Restaurant and Desert Rose Café, along with many other trailblazers, have proven that women thrive as entrepreneurs, just as they do in every role they take up.

Feeling inspired, you may already be exploring the top business consulting companies in Qatar, yet still find yourself confused. If you’re hesitant about starting your own company, unsure of your rights as a woman entrepreneur, or simply don’t know where to begin, this article is for you.

Here, we’ll answer the most common questions and help clear up any doubts you may have about the process.

Why Qatar? Why Now?

Qatar is a great place to start your business, and now is the perfect time. Vision 2030 has created a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, especially women. The country does not differentiate between men and women when it comes to company ownership. Many women have successfully launched ventures here, with the guidance of top business consulting companies in Qatar, proving how accessible and supportive the ecosystem has become.

How to Start Your Company as a Woman Entrepreneur

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Type of Company

Decide what kind of company you want to start, whether it’s e-commerce, trading, consultancy, etc.

2. License Type

Based on your company type, you need to secure a license from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI). The different types are:

• Commercial License – Trading, Retail, etc.
• Professional License – Consultancy, Services, Freelancing
• Industrial License – Manufacturing, Production

3. Business Structure

The most commonly seen business structures in Qatar are:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Requires at least 2 shareholders, can be 100% foreign-owned in most sectors.
• Single Person Company (SPC) – For starting alone.
• Branch Office – For expanding an existing foreign company into Qatar.
• Representative Office– For market research only, not commercial activities.

As a woman entrepreneur, you can own 100% of your company in most sectors. A local Qatari partner is no longer mandatory. Many top business consulting companies in Qatar can help you decide which structure best suits your vision.

4. Unique Company Name and Trade Name

The name must comply with Qatar’s rules and regulations and be reserved with MOCI.

5. Memorandum of Association

This document outlines your company’s structure, ownership, and activities. It must be carefully drafted and notarized.

6. Register with MOCI

Submit the application, Memorandum of Association, IDs, and passports to obtain your Commercial Registration (CR).

7. Apply for a Trade License

After registration, you’ll need a trade license to begin operations at your office space. Ensure your office location complies with municipality regulations.

8. Secure Your Establishment Card from the Immigration Department

If you plan to hire staff, sponsor them, or open bank accounts, you’ll need an establishment card.

9. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Many banks in Qatar offer special SME packages for women entrepreneurs, take advantage of them.

10. Additional Approvals if Required

Some activities, such as healthcare, education, or travel, require special approvals from respective ministries.

11. Start Operations

Congratulations! With your CR, Trade License, and Establishment Card, you’re ready to run your business.

Overwhelmed by the Steps? Here’s a Stress-Free Shortcut

Hire a company formation agency. They can:

• Fill out your applications
• Translate Arabic documents
• Handle ministry processes on your behalf
• Deliver your CR, license, and establishment card once ready

This is why so many entrepreneurs, especially women, prefer to partner with the top business consulting companies in Qatar, who simplify the entire process and ensure nothing is missed.

How to Choose the Right Agency

Not all agencies are equal. Here’s what to look for:

Experience & Reputation

• Check how many companies they’ve successfully set up.
• Look for agencies ranked or recognized by MOCI or with strong Google reviews.
• RAG is ranked in the top 5 business setup companies by MOCI.

Transparency in Pricing

• Some agencies add hidden fees.
• Always insist on a detailed quotation with government charges vs. service fees clearly separated.

Specialization in Your Sector

• Some agencies are stronger in trading, others in consultancies, travel, or industrial setups.

After-Sales Support

• Do they only help with registration, or also with renewals, visas, and PRO services later?
• RAG provides end-to-end business setup services so you won’t need multiple agencies.

Access to Networking

• The best agencies can connect you with lawyers, accountants, and even potential business partners.

Choosing the right partner from the top business consulting companies in Qatar can give you a strategic advantage.

Support Systems for Women in Qatar

• Qatar Development Bank (QDB) – Funding and training for women entrepreneurs
• Qatar Businesswomen Association (QBWA) – Networking, mentorship, and credibility
• Doha Women Entrepreneurs Meetups – Community support so you’re not alone

These resources ensure you not only start your business safely but also thrive in Qatar’s business landscape.

Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey with top business consulting companies in Qatar?

Get in touch with us today and let RAG guide you through every step of your business setup process.