About QSTP
QSTP was established to bring international research and technology-driven companies into Qatar and to connect them with universities and local start-ups.
As a recognised free zone, it gives companies the ability to operate with full foreign ownership, repatriate profits without restriction, and import goods duty free. Businesses based there also gain access to specialist facilities, including laboratories, incubators, and shared workspaces. Its location within Education City provides direct links to Qatar University and other academic institutions, creating opportunities for collaboration between industry and research.
Qatar Science and Technology Park is the newest of the free zones in Qatar. QSTP is a member of Qatar Foundation, and it is an active incubator for industries and businesses operating in technology, innovation, and research and development. It provides a hub for startup businesses and entrepreneurship. It offers a range of programmes and funding for early-stage businesses and innovators to grow and thrive.
In 2024, QSTP and QFC signed a Workflow Agreement for QFC to facilitate the registration of QSTP businesses in Qatar.
Key Features of QSTP Business Set Up
Why Set Up in QSTP?
The appeal of QSTP lies in its combination of business incentives and access to research infrastructure. Companies can own 100% of their entity, benefit from zero corporate tax, and import equipment or materials without duty. Unlike other zones that focus mainly on trade or financial services, QSTP is designed for innovation-led industries.
Being part of Education City gives firms direct links to researchers, students, and technology transfer programmes. This makes it easier to recruit talent, run joint projects, and test new products. The park also hosts accelerator programmes and provides funding opportunities, particularly for start-ups working in sectors aligned with Qatar’s national priorities.
Company Types in QSTP
QSTP allows different forms of registration, depending on the scale and nature of the business.
- Free Zone Entity (FZE): A fully owned company incorporated under QSTP rules, used by both start-ups and multinationals.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Enables an overseas parent to establish a registered presence in Qatar without setting up a new legal entity.
- Service Centre or R&D Unit: Designed for companies that want to base research or support operations in QSTP.
Each structure has specific filing rules and ongoing duties. The choice depends on the firm’s objectives, whether it’s to run a regional hub, build research capacity, or collaborate with academic partners.
Licensing and Regulation
Every entity operating in QSTP must be licensed by QSTP Free Zone Authority. Licences are tailored to the activity, which may include research, development, technology services, or support functions.
Registered firms are required to keep corporate records current, file annual returns, and report changes to shareholders, directors, or business activities. Companies are also expected to show a real presence in Qatar, such as offices, labs, or staff based on site. This ensures that firms use QSTP as an operational base rather than only a registered address.
Tax and Incentives
QSTP offers one of the most favourable incentive packages in the region. Companies are exempt from corporate tax on profits earned in Qatar and there are no customs duties on imports brought in for research or production. Profits and capital can be repatriated freely, and there are no foreign exchange restrictions.
As a recognised free zone, QSTP companies also benefit from Qatar’s double taxation treaties with over 80 countries. These agreements help reduce exposure to tax abroad and strengthen QSTP’s role as a suitable location for regional headquarters or research-led holding structures.
On top of fiscal benefits, QSTP provides direct access to specialist facilities. These include high-tech labs, testing centres, and innovation programmes. For many businesses, this combination of cost savings and research support is central to their decision to base operations in the park.
Why Incorporate in QSTP with Sovereign PPG?
We advise clients on the most suitable entity type, prepare and submit the necessary applications, and deal directly with the Free Zone Authority to secure licences. This ensures that the registration process is handled efficiently and in line with local requirements.
Our involvement continues after incorporation. We provide company secretarial support, oversee compliance, and manage accounting and tax reporting. We also track regulatory changes on behalf of our clients so adjustments can be made in good time, allowing businesses to focus on growth while remaining fully compliant.
