Historically property ownership in Qatar has been limited to Qatar nationals. Since there is no one resource outlining property laws in Qatar, determining the legality of non-nationals buying, selling, or leasing property in Qatar can be confusing. In recent years, there have been significant changes in Qatar’s property laws. Non-nationals may now purchase, rent, and occupy properties with certain restrictions. While it may seem challenging to understand Qatar laws and property ownership, we are here to answer any questions regarding Qatar laws and regulations and assist you in finding that ideal property for business, residency, or investment.
In 2002, Qatar laws changed, allowing non-nationals from countries that are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council to buy property for residential use. Restrictions limit the number of properties and the square meter but this was a first step in ongoing property law changes. Recently the Qatari government has opened the residential market to non-Qatar nationals who are not part of the Gulf Cooperation Council within the designated areas of Pearl Qatar and West Bay. Registration of property applications must be submitted to the specified administration office within the zone where the property is located. Once the application and registration is approved, a title will be issued to the property owner and a copy kept on record at the local administration office.
In addition to purchasing property within the Pearl Qatar and West Bay region, non-nationals are also entitled to register for usufruct rights for up to 99 years within an additional eighteen foreign investment zones. Registration for usufruct rights is a slightly different process than purchase registration and is handled within the individual municipalities or foreign investment zones. While this is not outright property ownership, once a usufruct application is approved, the Ministry of Justice will amend the title deed to the property showing the attachment of a usufruct agreement and issue the applicant a certificate giving them the privilege and rights to enjoy the property.
In 2004, Qatar issued a decree that entitles non-Qatari nationals to apply for renewable residency visas when property has been purchased for residential use. This extends to dependent children and spouses. In addition to the proof of property ownership which takes the place of an employer sponsor, a medical certificate and a certificate of conduct must also be provided. After confirming property purchase and all other documentation, a residency visa will be issued by the Ministry of Interior.
COREO rental experts work with tenants and landlords to accomplish the right match for rental needs. Qatar has a system of regulations concerning renting in Qatar that is designed to promote the best interests of both lessor and lessee. New rental laws provide rent caps to control escalating rent pricing and have established a committee for handling rental disputes. Regulations regarding rental agreements, leasing, and property purchases in Doha, Qatar have seen many positive changes in recent years and are likely to continue changing as more investors, businesses and individuals look to the possibilities of relocating families and businesses to Qatar.
A concern for anyone investing their finances and future in property in Qatar or elsewhere involves the possibility of land expropriation. As of 1988, Qatar law states that the government can take private property for public use only after paying the property owner fair value. While some expropriation settlements have occurred in recent years, only 63 instances have been reported between 2008 and 2011. While it is unlikely that expropriations would occur within the designated areas that the Qatar government has set aside for foreign investment, the law does not restrict expropriation rights in those areas.
We invite you to browse our online information for affordable rental, leasing, and purchasing options. Our staff at COREO includes experts who can assist you in understanding how to register property in Qatar, and will assist every step of the way to make your relocation or business transactions as smooth as possible. While the property law differs for businesses, investors, and individuals, we can assist you with a general property law overview and are prepared to help make sure that you have all the information you need to make the decision that is right for you, your family, or your business.