Where to Set Up in Qatar: Special Economic Zones and Industrial Areas

Qatar offers a unique and strategic location for businesses looking to expand in the Middle East. Situated at the crossroads of East and West, the country provides access to a combined GDP of US$8.5 trillion within a 3,000 km radius. Qatar is recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit, ranking first for entrepreneurial activity in the Arab world and boasting the fourth highest GDP per capita globally.

A robust economic environment

Qatar’s economic stability is underpinned by a supportive business environment, which includes up to 100% foreign ownership, zero percent income tax, and a 10% corporate tax rate. These favorable conditions are complemented by award-winning infrastructure, a young and highly educated workforce, and a high quality of life. Qatar is also recognized as the safest country globally, with one of the world’s best healthcare systems, making it an ideal home for businesses.

Infrastructure and connectivity

Qatar’s strategic investments in infrastructure make it a global logistics hub. Key projects include:

• Hamad International Airport: A leading airport offering excellent connectivity.
• Hamad Port: One of the world’s most efficient ports.
• Doha Metro: A state-of-the-art transportation system.
• Lusail City: A futuristic city project.
• Over 800 km of new road networks and 200 new bridges.

These developments are part of a US$200 billion government investment program aimed at realizing Qatar’s national vision for 2030, which spans various sectors and industries.

Business licensing platforms

Setting up a business in Qatar is streamlined through various licensing platforms:

• Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• Qatar Science and Technology Park
• Qatar Free Zones Authority
• Qatar Financial Centre
• Media City

Special Economic Zones, Industrial Zones, and Logistics Parks

Msheireb – Downtown Free Zone (Doha)

Located in the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, Msheireb is home to media, arts, and technology companies.

Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) (Education City, Doha)

Qatar’s first Free Zone focuses on tech development and innovation. Spanning 91 hectares, it offers quick and supportive procedures to establish and operate businesses. It houses various international corporations (such as ExxonMobil, Shell, ConocoPhilips, Microsoft, Cisco), SMEs, research institutions, and local tech startups.

Ras Bufontas – Airport Free Zone

Adjacent to Hamad International Airport, this 4 sq. km zone focuses on logistics, consumer products, light manufacturing, emerging technology, and pharmaceuticals. The first line of the Doha Metro, which opened in May 2019, provides direct access to Ras Bufontas. Plots are fully serviced and available in various sizes to meet industry-specific needs. Companies have flexible options: they can build their own facilities, hire QFZA to build to exact specifications, or use pre-built facilities provided.

Umm Alhoul – Port Free Zone

Located near the world’s largest greenfield port, Hamad Port, this 32 sq. km free zone is ideal for maritime industries, polymers and plastics, advanced manufacturing, and logistics. It is an optimal location for industrial operations that require access to sea freight and shipping routes.

Al Karaana Industrial Zone

A developing industrial area, it spans 48 sq. km and strategically located between Doha and Abu Samra. Al Karaana offers access to over 100 million customers. The zone will be able to address the diverse logistics requirements of businesses seeking open yards.

Mesaieed Industrial Zone

Located 40 km south of Doha, this zone is a hub for industries such as oil refining, petrochemicals, fertilizers, workshops, and primary building materials. It is owned and operated by Qatar Petroleum, was established in 1996, and caters to the facilities and services required by all downstream oil, gas, and metallurgical industries.

Jery Al Samur Logistics Park

Designed for land-based goods distribution throughout Qatar and the wider region, Jery Al Samur Logistics Park is strategically located adjacent to the Planned Truck Route linking Al Rayyan and Lusail City.

Birkat Al Awamer Logistics Park (Municipality of Al Wakrah)

Ideal for companies seeking to build their own facilities, including showrooms, offices, and worker accommodation.

Aba Saleel Logistics Park

Aba Saleel Logistics Park, ideal for small enterprises, offers essential infrastructure for logistics and business operations. Spanning 0.64 sq km, it enjoys excellent connectivity to regional transport links through extensive road networks. Located near key gateways like Al Wakra Logistics Park, Mesaieed Industrial Zone, Hamad Port, and Um Alhoul Special Economic Zone, it provides strategic access for businesses.

Al Wakra Logistics Park (Doha)

One of several logistics facilities promoting a sustainable and modern supply chain throughout Qatar.

Conclusion

With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and supportive business environment, Qatar presents a lucrative opportunity for investors and businesses looking to establish a presence in the Middle East. Whether you are looking to tap into new markets or leverage Qatar’s advanced logistics capabilities, the country offers a world of possibilities for today’s ambitious investors.

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