Qatar and its future in events

A large part of Qatar’s Vision 2030 plan is to deviate from an oil and gas reliant economy and diversify its economic strategy which includes growing Qatar’s events industry. In recent years, we have seen Qatar being awarded major international sporting events, such as the 2006 Asian Games and most recently, the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The media coverage around such a widely followed and supported event has assisted in securing Qatar as a global hub for future international music, business, artistic and sporting events.

In the lead up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Qatari government invested $billions into developing innovative and technologically advanced infrastructure including stadiums, hotels, transport etc. Qatar maintains warm temperatures all year round, spiking to temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius in the summer months. One of the many ways in which Qatar rose to the demand for technologically advanced infrastructure was the building of solar powered air-conditioned stadiums, to allow the most pleasurable and comfortable experience for guests and tourists year-round. Demand for event technologies and logistical solutions is also on the rise. As an example, Qatar invested in temporary infrastructure in order to combat the proximity and spacing issues of the Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022. Aiming to provide convenience for its visitors in accessing the World Cup ‘hub’, temporary stadiums were built and have since been dismantled, post-World Cup.

The MENA regions events industry’s compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is expected to grow 13.5% between 2021-2028 and aligns with Qatar’s ambition to attract 6 million annual visitors, which will in part, drive to achieve this growth. If we look to the year ahead – Qatar is set to host a number of major events in 2023, including the Horticultural Expo, AFC Asian Cup, Formula 1 - Grand Prix, Geneva International Motor Show and more.

The key opportunities for Qatar’s events industry are to focus on the people, processes, and technology. The opportunities available for businesses in the sector are clear.

What is the process to set up an events company in Qatar?

It is first important to determine the company’s business activities. There are a few potential options available, as listed below:

a) Sport events organizing undertaking (activity number 9319014)

• No external approvals required
• Government Fees: QAR 2,500 (commercial registration and trade license)
• Commercial office is required

b) Preparation and organization of concerts and public art events (activity number 9000001)

• External approval required from Ministry of Culture and Sport (no charge)
• Government fees: QAR 2,500 (commercial registration and trade license)
• Commercial office is required

c) Tickets selling activities for recreational events (business activity number 7990201)

• No external approvals required
• Government Fees: QAR 2,500 (commercial registration and trade license)
• Commercial office is required

d) Organizing festivals (activity number 8230003)

• No external approvals required
• Government Fees: QAR 2,500 (commercial registration and trade license)
• Commercial office is required

To organise a public event/festival, the company will need to liaise with local authorities to register the event and check procedures and requirements for road closures, security and any other logistical elements required.

After defining the business activity that is best suited, the rest of the company formation process will follow the same steps as any Limited Liability Company formation.

It is often easier to hire a professional to guide you through the set up and walk you through the licencing process and we can ensure that you don’t encounter any unnecessary difficulties or unexpected delays.

PRO partner Group has close ties with key government departments in Qatar as well as an expert legal, operations and PRO team, who can advise you on the requirements and process of planning for setting up an company in Qatar. The below infographic outlines the key steps in the PRO Partner Group LLC formation process in Qatar.

*Infographic LLC formation in Qatar updated on 06/02/2023

How can PRO Partner Group help?

PRO Partner Group has strong ties within Qatar and an extensive team on the ground, with in-depth knowledge of the market, company incorporation requirements, government departmental requirements, visa, labour and immigration services.

If you need guidance on setting up an events company in Qatar or any other related company setup, restructuring, local partner or PRO support matter in Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the wider UAE, Oman or Saudi Arabia, then please do get in touch with us on +974 4478 8765 for Qatar Doha office, +971 (0)4 456 1761 for Dubai, or email us at info@propartnergroup.com or complete the contact form below and we will be delighted to assist.