Information about Qatar
Qatar's Free Hold Law

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In 2006, Qatar enacted a crucial piece of legislation that has exciting implications for potential investors and buyers. Cabinet Resolution No. 6 addressed the issue of the conditions and procedures pertaining to usufruct of real estate and property by non-Qatari nationals. The key elements of this legislation are outlined below. Should you require further details, please feel free to contact First Qatar at your convenience. We will be pleased to offer any assistance or guidance necessary.

• Article 1

Non-Qatari nationals may leasehold real properties and residential units for a maximum period of 99 years, renewable for similar period(s), in the investment areas as outlined below.

• Article 2

An office shall be created at the competent municipality in order to prepare the required register for entering such disposals in connection with the enjoyment by non-Qatari nationals of real properties in the investment areas as set out in the preceding Article, together with a statement of the locations, names of owners and name of the beneficiary of such real properties and the term and consideration of such use. A copy of the above registers shall be addressed to the Qatar Real Property Registration & Notarization Department, Ministry of Justice, together with any variation to the particulars entered in such registers in order to take the required procedures in connection therewith.

The various administrations of the Gulf Pearl Island, West Gulf Island project and Al Khour Resort project as set out under Article 1 of the above Cabinet Resolution No. 20 of 2004 shall have the applicable powers given to the offices of the competent municipality in connection with such areas.

• Article 3

The competent municipality shall take the same procedures as provided under the preceding Article in connection with residential units used by non-Qatari nationals.

• Article 4

A beneficiary may sell, lease, transfer or utilize the right of usufruct in any way in accordance with the provisions of the applicable laws.

• Article 5

The charges payable for such disposals in connection with such usufruct, whether by sale to a third party, lease, transfer, utilization or renewal of the agreement, shall be determined by a resolution issued by the Minister of Municipal Affairs & Agriculture. Such charges shall be determined pro rata to the value of the real property. The resolution of the Minister shall not be valid unless approved by the Cabinet.

• Article 6

All competent entities, each in its competence, shall enforce this Law and it shall come into force from the date of issuance thereof. This Law shall be published in the Gazette.

Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al Thani

Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani
Emir of Qatar
Issued in the Emiri Court on 8.2.2006

• What are the implications of this law?

In simple terms, it opens up massive opportunities for would-be buyers and investors in Qatar. It means that you can invest in total security and confidence, backed by the full protection of the law.