LLC and WLL in Qatar: What’s the difference and how to set up

In Qatar, you’ll often see both LLC and WLL used when talking about company formation. They mean the same thing—both refer to a limited liability company structure where shareholders are only responsible for their investment in the business. The terms are interchangeable, but there are still a few details worth understanding before setting up.

While the legal structure is consistent, the formation process can vary depending on your business activity, ownership split and whether you register on the mainland or in a free zone. This guide breaks down the key differences and walks you through what it takes to get started.

LLC vs WLL: What’s the actual difference?

In Qatar, LLC and WLL refer to the same thing: a company where liability is limited to the value of each shareholder’s stake. WLL simply stands for “With Limited Liability”—it’s the local shorthand, while LLC is the more widely used international term.

Both structures follow the same rules. They require between two and fifty shareholders, with a minimum capital of QAR 200,000. The real differences don’t lie in the name. They lie in the ownership split, sector restrictions, and how the company is set up and licensed. That’s where things vary—and where planning counts.

Foreign ownership rules in Qatar

Qatar allows full foreign ownership in a growing number of sectors, but the rules depend on your business activity and where you plan to register. Consulting, IT, manufacturing and some service activities are open to 100% foreign investment, especially under the Qatar Investment Law.

That said, most companies still need a Qatari partner holding at least 51% of the shares—especially if they’re set up outside zones like QFC or QFZ. These ownership rules are improving year by year, but they still call for careful planning before you commit to a setup route.

How to set up an LLC or WLL in Qatar

Reserve the trade name

The first step is securing a business name with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI). It should be unique, reflect your activity, and be cleared for use. If it doesn’t translate to Arabic, expect a higher fee.

Draft the Articles of Association

Once the name is confirmed, the next task is to prepare your Articles of Association. This outlines the company’s structure, shareholding, and management rules. It must be written or translated into Arabic and notarised at the Ministry of Justice.

Apply for Commercial Registration (CR)

With the AOA in hand, you return to MOCI to apply for your Commercial Registration. This certificate is your company’s legal identity and allows you to proceed with key steps like opening a bank account and hiring staff.

Open a bank account

You’ll need to deposit the minimum capital of QAR 200,000 in a corporate bank account. A certificate confirming this deposit is part of the license process.

Secure a trade license

The trade license confirms where and how you’ll operate. You’ll need a valid tenancy contract for a physical office, plus copies of your CR and AOA.

Additional approvals

Some business activities require sign-off from sector regulators. For example, healthcare, education and engineering services all involve separate approvals.

Final steps

Depending on your activity, you may also need to register with the tax authority and social insurance. Expect the process to take between two and four weeks assuming your documents are in order. At minimum, you’ll need two shareholders, one director and a registered commercial space.

Key compliance points

Once your company is up and running, there are a few things to stay on top of. Commercial licenses must be renewed each year, and companies are required to file annual tax returns. Qatar’s corporate tax rate sits at 10% on profits sourced within the country.

Payroll must follow local employment laws, including salary payment methods and record-keeping. In some sectors, you may need to meet Qatarisation targets by hiring a minimum number of Qatari nationals. You may also be required to submit audited financial statements, unless exempted by the authorities.

Setup costs

Setting up an LLC or WLL in Qatar comes with several fixed and variable costs. Reserving a trade name usually costs between QAR 1,000 and 2,000. The commercial registration and trade license fees depend on your business activity and sector. You’ll also need to deposit a minimum share capital of QAR 200,000 in a local bank. A physical office is required to complete the licensing process and legal or notary fees apply when drafting and attesting your Articles of Association.

How can Sovereign PPG help?

If you're planning to set up a limited liability company in Qatar—whether listed as an LLC or WLL—Sovereign PPG can manage the full process, from approvals and structuring to licensing, visas and ongoing PRO support. With local expertise and strong links to the relevant authorities, we’ll make sure everything runs smoothly.

For expert help with company setup, restructuring or local partner services across Qatar, the UAE, Oman or Saudi Arabia, call us on +971 (0)4 456 1761 for Dubai or +971 (0)2 448 5120 for Abu Dhabi, email us at qatar@sovereigngroup.com or complete the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist.