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Company conversion to 100% ownership

Foreign investors can legally convert existing contracting companies into 100% foreign-owned entities by removing the local partner via a formal Memorandum of Association (MOA) amendment. Specifically, under Investment Law No. 1 of 2019, this process grants international owners full operational control and 100% profit retention in Qatar.

How does 100% foreign ownership benefit your contracting business?

Transitioning from a 51/49% partnership to full ownership is a transformative step for international contractors. Consequently, it removes the legal requirement for a local sponsor, allowing you to manage your corporate destiny independently.

Moreover, this change enhances investor confidence. Therefore, when you own the entity entirely, your decision-making becomes faster and more streamlined. Notably, you no longer need to share dividends or annual profits with a silent partner, which significantly boosts your local ROI.

In addition to financial gains, a 100% owned company enjoys greater transparency during international audits. Because the structure is simpler, global banks and lenders often view these entities as lower-risk investments.

Success and financial control in Qatar: An international investor in a modern Doha office finalizing 100% foreign ownership for their contracting company.

Strategic Sectors Eligible for Conversion

While contracting is a primary focus, many other high-growth industries in Qatar qualify for full foreign equity.

Civil Construction Residential, commercial, and industrial building projects can now be 100% foreign-owned.
Infrastructure Specifically, companies involved in roadworks, drainage, and large-scale utility contracting.
Technical Services Specialized MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) firms are fully eligible for this transition.
Oil & Gas Support Notably, contractors serving the energy sector can convert to gain full operational autonomy.

Conversion Process

Existing Contracting Companies
Pure Contracting Sector Process
1

Legal Feasibility Audit

Initially, Brandex reviews your current CR and MOA. We ensure your business activities fall under the approved sectors of Law No. 1 of 2019.

2

Eligibility checking of owners and partners

Our legal team reviews official documents of owners and partners to verify eligibility for obtaining full ownership of the company.

3

Trade name and activity review

Our team reviews proposed activities and trade names to ensure compliance with Qatar regulations and manages required amendments.

4

Reviewing audit reports and NOC processing

Our auditing team reviews financial reports and processes the request for NOC approval from the General Tax Authority.

5

Drafting the Amendment

Subsequently, our legal team drafts a new share sale agreement and NOC. This document defines the exit of the Qatari partner and 100% share transfer.

6

Ministry Approvals

Meanwhile, we coordinate with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) to submit the application for the foreign ownership license.

7

MOJ Contract Signing

Once the Ministry approves, all parties sign the amended contract at the Ministry of Justice, authenticated by the public notary.

8

CR & AOA Update

Finally, we update your Commercial Registration (CR) and AOA. Your company is now officially registered as 100% foreign-owned.

Existing Contracting Companies with Other Activities
Mixed Activities (Trading, Services, etc.)
1

Legal Feasibility Audit

Initially, Brandex reviews your current CR and MOA. We ensure your business activities fall under the approved sectors of Law No. 1 of 2019.

2

Eligibility checking of owners and partners

Our legal team reviews official documents of owners and partners to verify eligibility for obtaining full ownership of the company.

3

Trade name and activity review

Our team reviews proposed activities and trade names to ensure compliance with Qatar regulations and manages required amendments.

4

Reviewing audit reports and NOC processing

Our auditing team reviews financial reports and processes the request for NOC approval from the General Tax Authority.

5

Drafting the Amendment

Subsequently, our legal team drafts a new share sale agreement and NOC. This document defines the exit of the Qatari partner and 100% share transfer.

6

Ministry Approvals

Meanwhile, we coordinate with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) to submit the application for the foreign ownership license.

7

MOJ Contract Signing

Once the Ministry approves, all parties sign the amended contract at the Ministry of Justice, authenticated by the public notary.

8

CR & AOA Update

Finally, we update your Commercial Registration (CR) and AOA. Your company is now officially registered as 100% foreign-owned.

Required Documentation

To begin the transfer, ensure you have the following records ready:

  • Original Commercial Registration (CR)
  • Valid Trade License copy
  • Current Memorandum of Association
  • Valid QID of the Qatari Partner
  • Passport copies of Foreign Shareholders
  • Audited Financial Statements (if required)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC)
  • Official Resolution of the Board

FAQ

Is it legally possible to convert an existing 51/49% company to 100% foreign ownership?
Yes. Under Qatar Investment Law No. 1 of 2019, foreign investors are permitted to own 100% of the equity in various sectors, including contracting. Consequently, you can legally remove a local partner by amending the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and obtaining Ministry approval.
Does the Qatari partner need to agree to the conversion?
Yes. Because the conversion involves a transfer of shares, the current Qatari shareholder must sign the amended MOA at the Ministry of Justice. Therefore, a mutual agreement or a pre-existing legal arrangement is necessary to facilitate a smooth exit.
How long does the conversion process typically take?
The entire process usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks. This timeline includes the initial feasibility audit, drafting the legal amendments, securing Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) approvals, and finally updating the Commercial Registration (CR).
Will my existing contracts or bank accounts be affected by the change?
No. Your company remains the same legal entity with the same Tax Identification Number and Commercial Registration number. However, you must notify your bank and major clients of the updated ownership structure to ensure your corporate records remain compliant.
Are there specific contracting activities that do not qualify for 100% ownership?
While most construction and technical contracting activities are eligible, certain strategic sectors may still require local participation. Brandex Global provides a free eligibility audit to verify if your specific CR activities fall under the 100% ownership decree.
Do I need to increase my company capital to convert?
In most cases, an increase in capital is not mandatory for the conversion itself. Nevertheless, if your business activity requires a specific threshold under MOCI regulations for foreign-owned entities, our consultants will advise you during the audit stage.

Why trust Brandex Global with your conversion?

Led by Managing Director Shameem Shamsudeen, our team has processed over 2,000 successful business setups in Qatar. We don't just handle paperwork; we provide a legal shield for your investment. Furthermore, our licensed PROs have direct relationships with the Ministry, ensuring your conversion is handled with precision and speed.

12+ Years Experience
100% Compliance Rate
24/7 Support

Ready to take full control of your business?

Contact our legal consultants today for a free assessment of your company's conversion eligibility.

Start My Conversion Now