QBG

National Economic Strategy

Managing the ongoing economic development of Qatar remains a priority for the country as
it continues to experience a period of unprecedented growth. Qatar National Vision 2030
outlines three broad and interrelated goals which will guide international and domestic
policy-making in the decades to come :

• Maintain a high standard of living for all Qatari citizens.
• Promote and expand domestic capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Align economic outcomes with economic and financial security
• To work towards these goals, the National Economic Strategy 2011-2016 is beginning a
number of projects which will initiate Qatar’s transformation into a more sustainable and
prosperous economy.

To meet the above goals, the next five years will involve progress in a number of related initiatives:
Boosting the value of Qatar’s productive base.
Enhancing economic stability.
Improving technical efficiency.
Fostering economic diversity.
Boosting Value of Productive Base

“Productive base” refers to the total value of an economy’s resources, institutions, infrastructure
and workforce: the stronger and more stable a country’s productive base is, the more opportunities
are available for its citizens at all levels of society.

Currently Qatar’s economy is based predominantly on its oil and natural gas resources. Minus
hydrocarbon revenues, however, the country is running a deficit of 9.2% as of 2009. Though
this number is shrinking, transitioning the economy to a more robust model not pegged to the
fluctuations of the global energy market will be a major priority in the coming years.

Key to maintaining Qatar’s economic strength will be the development of a national investment
framework that will both ensure that Qatar’s hydrocarbon assets are being used in a meaningful
way, and seek out new investment opportunities in areas such as foreign currency reserves.
Enhancing Economic Stability

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National Economic Strategy

At the policy level, a number of steps are being taken to promote greater economic stability. These include:

• Efficient and forward-thinking budgeting at the national level.
• Reforms to Qatar’s central banking system.
• Building strong links between the public and private sectors through a public investment program.
• Establishing a debt management function at the Ministry of Finance.
• Creating broader financial liquidity by diversifying investments.
• Improving Technical Efficiency.

Using resources more effectively at the institutional level has been shown to have a trickle-down
effect on financial prosperity and productivity. To that end, Qatar has committed to a $65 billion
investment in infrastructure development through 2016.

Included in this will be projects to promote the following:

• Increasing water conservation.
• Reducing energy usage.
• Expanding the capacity of transportation and shipping networks.
• Reforming land-use policies.
• Fostering Economic Diversity.

A diverse economy is more capable of creating jobs and opportunities for future generations
and is less vulnerable to the boom and bust cycles of oil and natural gas prices. As of 2009
hydrocarbon revenues accounted for 50% of Qatar’s GDP and 98% of its exports. Creating
growth and opportunities for a future beyond this reliance will involve significant shifts to the
culture and institutions of Qatari society.

Building a strong entrepreneurial culture will be a major initiative in the coming years. Currently,
small- and medium-sized businesses constitute only 15% of Qatar’s economy. Enterprise Qatar,
a newly-launched initiative, has been created to increase this number by providing performance-based
grants and vouchers to nascent businesses.

Creating highly-skilled jobs is another priority; the current proliferation of labor-intensive, low-wage
jobs limits opportunities for Qatari citizens. Building a culture of research and development
will attract foreign investment and provide additional outlets for skilled Qataris who would
otherwise emigrate or go into the public service. Recently, Qatar has committed 2.8% of its
GDP to support research initiatives. These include:

Qatar Foundation, which expands access to education and supports knowledge-based enterprises
Qatar Science and Technology Park -- an innovative, multi-disciplinary research environment
which encourages collaboration across traditional research boundaries.

2022 and Beyond :

Hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022 will present many new economic and cultural
opportunities for Qatar. While the direct economic impact will be minimal for the period
between 2011-2016, a sizable investment in infrastructure and capacity-building will be
required in the years to follow. In the immediate future, institutional arrangements for overseeing
and managing World Cup-related activities will be established, as will an investment framework
to support the required expansion of Qatar’s infrastructure.

Overall, Qatar’s economic prospects remain strong, both for the period of 2011-2016, and for
the years of increased development leading up to the 2022 World Cup. Critical will be leveraging
the ongoing profits of a hydrocarbon-based economy and the added international focus of hosting
a major sporting event towards a more stable and sustainable society for all Qataris.

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Customs and Ports Law

Customs and Ports Law

Qatar’s Customs and Ports Law covers all aspects of the import and export of goods to and from its ports:
Hamad International Airport, Salwa Overland Customs, Mesaieed Port, Doha Port and Ras Laffan.

Travellers, traders and business persons must abide the rules and regulations set by the General Authority
of Customs, the government authority responsible for monitoring importation and exportation of goods
in and out of the State in accordance with legislation.

Customs Clearance :

Qatar has strict regulations which must be adhered to in order to obtain customs clearance of
goods. All goods must be recorded on a customs declaration form and a manifest presented to
the customs authority on arrival.

If after physical inspection a discrepancy is found between the goods and the customs declaration,
additional taxes and duties will apply along with a fine.

Failure to comply with the customs law may result in delays, holding of goods, penalties,
storagedemurrage fees, or the return of goods to origin. In serious infringements legal action
may be taken (see Legal Action below).

Customs Clearance Single Window ‘Al-Nadeeb’ :

‘Al-Nadeeb’ is an online resource which simplifies the customs clearance procedure for importers
and clearing agents. Users can check information about tariffs and calculate duty. Registered
login users, including approved trade brokers, importers and exporters, may perform a number
of other tasks online, including accessing customs data and records, making duty payments
and completing customs paperwork.

Customs Duty Charges :

All goods imported into Qatar are subject to customs duties, based on a percentage value of
goods (typically 5%), or a per unit basis. The value of goods is calculated according to the
Regulations under the Customs and Ports Law.
• General Cargo – 5%
• Steel – 20%
• Urea & ammonia – 30%
• Cigarettes, tobacco and its derivatives – 100% or QR1,000 per 10,000 cigarettes, whichever is higher

Exempted Goods :

Exemption categories include personal effects and household items, imports of charitable organizations
and returned goods, diplomatic and military exemptions. Goods cleared for ‘free zones’ and duty-free
shops are not subject to customs levies. Goods in transit may be accepted, without payment of duty, at
designated stations.

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Customs and Ports Law

Prohibited Goods :

Flammable goods, radioactive materials, ammunition and explosives, narcotic drugs, goods from
economically boycotted countries, generally prohibited goods, and goods which infringe rules relating
to commercial, industrial, artistic, or intellectual property rights are strictly prohibited.

Inspection of Goods :

Goods may be inspected and examined, typically in the presence of the owner or representative.
However, suspicious, prohibited or improperly declared goods may be opened in the absence
of the owner if they fail to show at the pre-notified time. In rare circumstances goods may be
inspected prior to notice to the owner.
If examination is warranted, the costs of transportation to the place of examination, packing and
repacking are at the expense of the owner. Goods that are harmful, dangerous or that are not
permitted may be destroyed or re-exported.

Legal Action :

Customs officials are authorized to investigate smuggling and to conduct searches of cargo and
persons suspected of smuggling goods.
Officers have the authority to board vessels anchored in local ports, or leaving/entering ports,
and inspect the cargo manifest and entire vessel.
Goods may be seized in land and marine zones, at customs stations, airports, seaports and all
places subject to customs control.
Customs officials may detain and arrest persons suspected of smuggling or resisting officials in
the conduct of their investigations.

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Qatar’s Tax System

Qatar’s Tax System

Personal Tax :

There is no tax on personal per capita income. This means that employees take home their
wages and salaries without any tax deducted. Full information on personal income taxation
can be found here.

However, an individual who exercises any type of commercial activity with the intention of
gaining income is required to pay tax according to the Companies Tax law (see Company
Taxation below).

The total income of Qatari and GCC nationals resident in Qatar is exempted from paying tax.
Resident is defined as anyone who owns a permanent accommodation in the State of Qatar,
or stayed in for more than 183 days continuously or intermittently during (12) months, or his
vital interests are linked to Qatar.

Company Taxation

The rate of tax is 10% of a company’s Total State Income, paid annually. This fixed rate is only
applicable on businesses and not on individuals’ incomes (see Personal Tax above). Typical
business costs are deductible and losses can be rolled over for a period no longer than 3
years from the original accounting declaration.

“Commercial Activity” means any profession, vocation, service, trade, industry, speculation,
contractual work or any profit & income making business. Rental income is subject also to
a fixed tax rate of 10 %.

More in-depth information on company taxation law can be found here.

How is Company Tax calculated ?

A company (or individual) is required to pay tax on income that has been generated in from sources
in the State during the previous tax year. This Total State Income includes:

• Operating any commercial activity within the State.

• Contracts being executed totally or partially within the State

• Properties in the State; including income from selling stocks, company shares, and individual
companies that own real estate assets within State.

• Services provided by the main company, branches and other related firms

• Income on loans provided by the State.
Total State Income, which results through the exploiting, exploration or production of the State’s
natural resources, may be subject to additional taxation under the Double Tax Agreement signed
in the Country of registered origin of the company. Qatar has favourable Double Taxation
Agreements with over 40 countries. (Check whether your country has an agreement in place.)

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Qatar’s Tax System

Tax exemptions :

Tax exemptions apply to the following:
• Profits and revenues on Public Treasury Bonds, Development Bonds and Public Corpora-
tion Bonds.
• Dividends and other income from shares that comply with conditions set out in Article 4,
Law No. 21 of the year 2009.
• Small handcraft businesses )three employees or less).
• Income of companies working in agriculture, fisheries, aerial and maritime transportation,
on condition of reciprocity.
• Qatari legal persons residing in the State.
Tax on Capital Gains
Capital gains on the disposal of real estate and/or securities derived by an individual are
exempt from Capital Gains Tax provided the asset is not part of a taxable activity
(i.e. a business).

Other Taxes

There are no more taxes as Qatar is one of a number of low taxation countries around the
world, which makes it attractive to expats (individuals and companies).

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National Projects in Qatar



National Projects in Qatar

SHARQ CROSSING - DOHA BAY PROJECT

Work on the $5bn Sharq Crossing project, previously known as the Doha Bay crossing and
expressway project, is advancing with the US-based Fluor Corporation winning the contract.
The company has been awarded a $185m contract with Qatar Public Works Authority (Ashghal)
to provide project management and construction supervision services for the Sharq Crossing.
Public interest in the project was revived after a YouTube video went viral that showed three
bridges connecting different parts of the country. Sharq Crossing is Qatar’s ambitious development
plan ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The project will navigate Doha Bay and will comprise
bridge sections interconnected by an immersed tube tunnel to create a new passageway beneath
the waters of Doha Bay.

Completion of the project is expected by 2020 to support the run-up to the World Cup event. The
project is being led from Fluor’s Doha office with support from the Abu Dhabi and Greenville,
South Carolina, offices

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National Projects in Qatar

UMM SLAL STADIUM

Umm Slal Stadium, located in the vicinity of one of Qatar”s most historically important forts, will
have 45,120 seats. The design is a modern interpretation of traditional Arab forts, like the one
in nearby Umm Slal Mohammed. After the FIFA World Cup, seating capacity will be reduced to
25,500. The stadium will be used by Umm Slal F.C.

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National Projects in Qatar

QATAR BAHRAIN CAUSEWAY

The Qatar Bahrain Causeway (also referred Overview: The link between the two coun-
to as the Qatar Bahrain Friendship Bridge) is tries would be approximately 40 km (25 mi) in
an often announced, often delayed planned length, and support both a road and a railway.
causeway between the two Arab states of Qatar The link is expected to consist of a number of
and Bahrain. It was announced on the 13th of bridges and will be a natural extension of the
December 2008 that construction would start King Fahd Causeway that connects Bahrain
in early 2009, and would cost approximately and Saudi Arabia, thus linking the entire
US$2.3 billion to complete. As of November region. These links include 18 km (11 mi) of
2010, construction had not started, and the artificial dikes and 22 km (14 mi) of viaducts
Qatar-Bahrain Causeway project was on hold, and bridges. These bridges would be 40 m
while the contracting consortium involved (131 ft) in height at places to allow maritime
with the project was said to be demobilizing, navigation. The eastern-end of the causeway in
according to a source at the Qatar Bahrain Qatar will be located at Ras Ashairij, 5 km (3
Causeway Foundation (QBCF). On January 14, mi) south of the city of Zubarah. The opposite
2011, Bahrain”s Foreign Minister stated that end of the causeway would link North of Askar
the project should nevertheless be considered in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
as a must for both countries:
Plans for its construction were first made in
«This is one economic market, one economic September 2001, when the Danish consultan-
zone that should be well-connected, and the cy COWI signed a DKK 60 million contract for
bridge is an integral part of that. On April 27, the first phase of the project with the Ministry
2011, an announcement was made, quoting of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture in Qatar.
an anonymous source of Bahrain’s Al Wasat Together with Sund & Bælt Partner Ltd., DHI
newspaper, that construction of the causeway Water & Environment and the architects of
would start in 2011 for completion in 2015, at Dissing Weitling and COWI conducted
the cost of approximately $5 billion. pre-studies of the link.

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National Projects in Qatar

THE AMPHIBIOUS 1000

Plans are afoot to build a semi-submerged The resort is designed to be
extravagant resort project on the Qatar Coast “in harmony with nature”.
that will cost a massive $500 million. The
Amphibious 1000, which will be built in 67Qatar Business Guide
the middle of a marine reserve, is designed 2016 - 2017
by the Italian firm Giancarlo Zema Design
Group. The project will feature both land
and sea developments including four giant
hotels with underwater rooms that resemble
super-yachts. There will also be 80 “jellyfish”
self-contained floating suites, with each having
four floors and an underwater “aquari-
um lounge”. Hydrogen-powered 20 meter
aluminum yachts with underwater viewing
areas will transport guests around the resort.
It will extend horizontally for one kilometer
and it has a striking similarity to Dubai’s
Palm Island. On land there will be a museum,
floating walkways, a restaurant with panoramic
views, exhibitions, aquariums and a glass tunnel
that will lead to the underwater observatory in
the center of the marinepark.

Official Sponsor

National Projects in Qatar

TWIN TOWERS IN WEST BAY

Located in Doha’s West Bay district, the Twin Towers Official Sponsor
are a mixed used development that will be divided
into a hotel and an office block. Both towers
consist of 46 floors that sit on a podium and have
four basement levels that are dedicated to car parking.

The project managers for the development are
Hamilton Project Managers, while EFECO have
signed on for the MEP works on the project. The MEP
contract from the project runs from March 2011 to
June 2013, while the scheduled completion date for
the project is in the third quarter of that year. The
West Bay development is one the newest districts
in Doha and is home to a number of the tallest
skyscrapers in the city.

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National Projects in Qatar

AL KHOR STADIUM

Al-Khor is a brand new 45,330-capacity 19,830. The stadium offers spectators a stunning
stadium with a stunning seashell motif and a view of the Arabian Gulf from their seats and
flexible roof. The permanent lower tier seats will be located in a sports and recreation zone.
25,500 and the modular upper tier seats

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National Projects in Qatar

AL RAYYAN STADIUM

The existing Al-Rayyan Stadium with a seating special “media membrane” facade that acts
capacity of 21,282 will be expanded to 44,740 as a screen for projecting news, updates and
seats using modular elements to form an current matches. The stadium will be downsized
upper tier. The stadium is designed with a to its current capacity after the tournament.

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AL SHAMAL STADIUM

Al Shamal stadium will have a capacity of “dhow” fishing boat used in the Gulf. Specta-
45,120, with a permanent lower tier of 25,500 tors are expected to arrive from the Doha
seats and a modular upper tier of 19,620 Expressway, water taxis, the Bahrain-Qatar
seats. The stadiums shape is derived from the Friendship Bridge and the new metro rail.

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National Projects in Qatar

URJUAN PROJECT

Urjuan project is an integrated high end city that dominates the shores of the development.
that will be developed by BARWA Group at Al The iconic development will comprise 24,500
Khor City. It will cover an area of 5.5 million housing units, a beachfront luxury hotel and
square meters. The estimated construction cost resort featuring terraced townhouses, private
is USD 35 billion on chalets and luxury apartments.
completion. The 5.5mn square meter integrated
city development, located along the Al Khor Shopping malls, leisure amenities, open
Corniche, will have the capability to accommodate gardens and other tourist attractions such as
about 63,000 residents. The Phase one of the 18-hole specialty golf course, a business hotel
constructions will commence early next year, and private villa golf estate, will all form a part
and the actual construction will begin in of the development.
February 2009 and will be complete by 2013.

Designed by Cansult Maunsell of Canada, The location of the project, Al Khor, depicts
the development has been so named, as it is an old city charm that blends well with the
a city that represents Qatar’s rapid economic ongoing massive developments, without com-
progress and its endeavors to preserve cultural promising on identity. The unique environment
heritage. The name is drawn after an ancient, of the area would be further preserved by this
valuable dye-like substance from which the project of Barwa, which unites residents from
‘royal purple’ color is derived, and is native to various cultural backgrounds under a single
the Al Khor area. community.

The project, owned by Barwa Al Khor Al Khor is hoped to be the upcoming hotspot
(joint venture between Barwa Real Estate and for businesses and residence in Qatar. Currently
Alimtiaz Investment of Kuwait), will be sold the area is witnessing major
phase by phase offering residential and constructions as a part of the ‘Qatar 2025’
commercial options and properties to customers. plans established by the Urban Planning and
The buildings are strategically positioned to offer Development Authority.
majestic views of the marinas and Arabian Gulf

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National Projects in Qatar

AL WAKRAH STADIUM

Al-Wakrah is one of Qatar’s oldest cities, 73Qatar Business Guide
with a long history of commercial fishing 2016 - 2017
and pearl diving. Al-Wakrah stadium, with
a capacity of 45,120, takes its cues from
the sea that has played such an important
role in the city’s history. After the FIFA
World Cup, the stadium’s capacity will be
reduced to 25,500 seats

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National Projects in Qatar

DOHA METRO PROJECT

Doha metro is an 85-KM railway network in 3. The freight rail link based on the GCC rail
Qatar. The railway will include an east coast and Doha expressway studies
link, a high-speed link, a freight link and a 4. The Doha Metro Network based on the
light rail system. The railway will serve suburb Qatar Transport Master Plan
of Doha and developments such as Lusail, 5. Light rail / people mover networks, such as
Education city and West Bay. Lusail, Education City and Westbay
Project Type: Railway
Project Duration From: Q1 2010 Estimated A consolidated railway network will be based
To: Q1 2015 Estimated. on state-of-the-art; safe and environment-friendly
Company: Deutsche Bahn, one of the worlds design technology that will fit the needs of Qatar
leading railway services company. while ensuring a close link with the local culture
Schedule: The project is Under Construction.
Estimated Value: 3bn USD.

The Railways Project consists of the following:
1.The east coast rail link, a passenger and
freight railway linking Ras Laffan and
Mesaieed via Doha
2. The high speed link between the New Doha
International Airport, Doha City Center, and
Kingdom of Bahrain via the planned causeway
bridge

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National Projects in Qatar

ENTERTAINMENT CITY QATAR

This project shall be built at Lusail City covering 10. Water Taxis
180,000 square meters allotted to entertainment 11. 4,500 residential units including themed
activities. The city shall include Aqua Park, villas and sea view apartments
Game Parks, Theater, Hotels, Residential Area 12. Community Facilities
and Snow Dome.
Qatar Entertainment City is the first of its kind
in the region, fully integrated family
destination which has been master planned
with people in mind to deliver a ‘Live, Work,
Play’ lifestyle.

1. Located at the heart of Lusail next to the Fox
Hill Reserve Nature Park
2. 1 million m2 of development
3. 180,000 m2 of international leisure, retail
entertainment and restaurants
4. Waterfront Living
5. Five Distinct Districts
6. Twelve Five Star Hotels
7. Theme Park
8. Multi-purpose Arena
9. Pedestrian Walkways

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National Projects in Qatar

BARWA COMMERCIAL AVENUE

Barwa Commercial Avenue is an 8km long cooling package on the Barwa City Project.
development of road, as well as a mixed devel-
opment of buildings consisting of commercial Client: Barwa Real Estate Company
complexes, showrooms and residential units. Contractor: Hochtief
Scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter MEP Contractor: Mercury Engineering
of 2012, Mercury Middle East will handle the
full MEP scope for Work Area 5 of the

Commercial Avenue project. Built along the
highway at Doha’s southern fringe, the entire
project will comprise of 900,000m2 of gross
floor space. That floor space will contain 600
retail spaces and 850 residential units and
offices, while public areas will have food
courts, groceries, pharmacies and other amenities
for people living and working in the Barwa
Commercial Avenue. It is the second major
project Mercury Middle East has undertaken
with Barwa Real Estate, following the district

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National Projects in Qatar

AL GHARAFA STADIUM

The existing 21,175 capacity Al-Gharafa sta- 77Qatar Business Guide
dium will be expanded to 44,740 seats using 2016 - 2017
modular elements forming an uppertier. The
facade will be made up of ribbons represent-
ing the nations that qualify for the 2022 FIFA
World Cup and will symbolize football and the
mutual friendship, tolerance and respect that
the tournament represents. The stadium will
be downscaled to its existing capacity after the
tournament ends.

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National Projects in Qatar

EDUCATION CITY STADIUM

Education City Stadium takes the form of a jagged diamond, glittering by day and glowing by
night. The 45,350-seat stadium will be located in the midst of several university campuses at
Education City, easily accessible for fans both in Qatar and in neighboring Bahrain, which will
be only 51 minutes away from the stadium by high-speed rail. Following the FIFA World Cup, the
stadium will retain 25,000 seats for use by university athletic teams.

DOHA PORT STADIUM

Doha Port Stadium is a proposed football
stadium which will be built in Doha, Qatar in
time for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The new
Doha Port Stadium will be a completely modular
stadium with 44,950 seats. The stadium, which
will sit on an artificial peninsula in the Gulf,
is designed to evoke its marine setting. Water
from the Gulf will run over its outer facade,
aiding in the cooling process and adding to its
visual allure. Fans will have the option of arriving
on a water taxi or ferry. After the FIFA World
Cup, the whole stadium will be disassembled
and the seats sent to developing countries to
further their football development.

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National Projects in Qatar

HILTON DOHA RESIDENCE QATAR

Hilton Hotels Corporation has scheduled to resulted in Qatar rapidly becoming a key business
open the Hilton Doha Residence Qatar in Q2 and MICE destination with the aim to welcome
2012 with the New Doha Hotels Company. 1.5 million visitors by next year. The major
The 288 apartment residence, located in the infrastructure investments in tourism includ-
up market West Bay business and diplomatic ing the redevelopment of Doha International
district, and close to the Corniche, will be Airport, the causeway linking Qatar to Bahrain
Hilton’s second property in Qatar following and the development of MICE facilities such
the Hilton Doha which is currently under as the Doha Convention Centre and the Qatar
development. National Convention Centre has made Qatar
an important development
The new-build residence will feature ap- market for Hilton. The Hilton Doha Residence
proximately 288 well-appointed studios, one, will incorporate the comforts of home into an
two and three-bedroom apartments. upscale hotel experience to offer business and
On-site facilities will include a restaurant, leisure travelers a spacious, convenient and
health club, outdoor swimming pool and car deluxe retreat for their extended stays.
park. With an estimated GDP income per capita
of US$85,867 per annum, Qatar is the richest Hilton Hotels has a large brand footprint in
country in the world. The booming finance, the Middle East & Africa with 41 hotels across
insurance, real estate and business service 13 countries, and another 20 properties in the
sectors, in addition to a mammoth oil and gas pipeline.
industry, has

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National Projects in Qatar

KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL STADIUM

Redesigned for Qatar’s successful hosting of the 2006 Asian Games, Khalifa International Stadi-
um’s current capacity of 50,000 will be expanded to 68,030 for the 2022 FIFA World Cup™. The
stadium, which includes sweeping arcs and partially covered stands, is the centerpiece of Aspire
Zone, a sports complex that includes the Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence, ASPETAR Sports
Medicine Hospital and many other sporting venues.

LUSAIL DEVELOPMENT

Lusail is a new coastal city under construction commercial districts and mixed-use areas, re-
north of Doha and will cover 35km². The proj- tail areas, two golf courses, 22 schools, and a
ect will contain 18 different districts and will hospital.
include a lagoon with two marinas, 25,000 Value: US $5.5 billion
residential units, high and low-rise buildings, Client: Lusail Real Estate Development Com-
pany
Schedule: The project is currently under con-
struction and infrastructure works are sched-
uled to be completed in 2011. The entire
development is expected to be completed in
2018. Hyder Consulting Middle East, Halcrow
and Cowi and Partners prepared the detailed
infrastructure plans. Parsons International is
the project manager.

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LUSAIL ICONIC STADIUM

The new Lusail Iconic Stadium, with a capac- crete seating bowl, discreetly supported by a
ity of 86,250, will host the opening and final ring of arching columns. Its central
matches of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Located section can be retracted to allow the pitch to
in Lusail City, the stadium takes its inspiration be either open to the sky or fully covered.
from the sail of a traditional show boat and The concave profile of the stadium’s out-
is surrounded by water. After the FIFA World er enclosure evokes the sails of a traditional
Cup, the stadium will be used to host other dhow boat and incorporates a system of op-
spectacular sporting and cultural events. erable louvers. Inside, the seating bowl is
Lusail Iconic Stadium is a proposed football designed to enhance the experience and at-
stadium which will be built in Lusail, Qatar in mosphere for spectators: VIP and hospitality
time for the final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. accommodation is concentrated along the
The stadium will be used for the opening and sides of the pitch to create a continuous sea of
final games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Like fans behind each goal. Located in the centre
the other stadiums planned for the 2022 World of a new development to the north of Doha,
Cup, the Lusail Stadium will be cooled using with direct connections by road and a new
solar power and have a zero carbon footprint. metro line, Lusail Iconic Stadium is intended
The stadium was designed by British firm, to be a catalyst for further growth and has
Foster + Partners. It will have an almost circu- a highly progressive environmental strategy.
lar base, surrounded by a moat and connected Parking and service areas are shaded by can-
to the car park by six bridges. The stadium has opies of solar collectors, which will produce
a near-circular footprint and sits on the master energy for the stadium when it is in use, as well
plan’s primary axis, which divides the stadium as generating power for neighboring buildings.
precinct into two halves. Encircled by a reflective
pool of water, spectators cross the ‘moat’ to
enter the building via six bridges. An outer
pedestrian concourse extends from the water
towards an array of smaller amenity buildings
and a hotel at the stadium’s perimeter. The sad-
dle-form roof appears to float above the con-

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National Projects in Qatar

NEW DOHA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

With a land area in excess 22 km the New Doha International Airport is designed to handle 50
million passengers, 2 million tonnes of cargo, and 320,000 aircraft landings and takeoffs each
year. Over 60 million m³ of fill will be reclaimed from the sea and used to create the site, while
over 6.2 million m³ of improperly disposed household waste has been removed from the site
and disposed of in an engineered landfill. The runways, taxiways and aprons of the new airport
require 3.7 million tonnes of high quality polymer asphalt and an additional 115,000 m³ of
concrete, while 800,000 m³ of concrete will be needed for facility structures. In order to facilitate
construction of the airport, over 17 km of temporary roads are being constructed within the site.
Over 100 hectares alongside the new airport have been reserved for commercial development,
including a free trade zone, offices, hotels, and retail mall. The contract for the first phase of the
airport construction and the planning and design phase was awarded to Bechtel Group Inc. In
May 2006, Takenaka won a major contract to build the Emiri VIP
terminal. ARINC and Thales were awarded a contract for the IT, telecommunications and security
systems at the airport.

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NEW PORT PROJECT

On 19 June 2007, HH Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, issued
Emiri Decree No 37, setting forth the creation of one of the world’s largest Greenfield
port developments. Strategically located south of Doha, the QAR 27 Billion (USD 7.4 Billion)
megaproject, which includes a new port, a new base for the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces and the
Qatar Economic Zone 3, will span a 26.5 square kilometer area.

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National Projects in Qatar

Musherib – Heart of Doha

Being the signature project of Doha land, Heart of Doha aims to recreate the historically important
centre of Doha, and revive Qatari architectural language of the past in the modern context, in
line with today’s technologies. Developed on a 35-hectare site at Mohammed bin Jassim District,
the project is located in inner Doha, comprising five phases, ending in 2016.

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LUSAIL

Lusail is a new coastal city under construction north of Doha and will cover 35 km². The project
will contain 18 different districts and will include a lagoon with two marinas, 25,000 residen-
tial units, high and low-rise buildings, commercial districts and mixed-use areas, retail areas,
two golf courses, 22 schools, and a hospital. The project is currently under construction and
infrastructure works have been completed in 2011. The entire development is expected to be
completed in 2018. Hyder Consulting Middle East, Halcrow and Cowi and Partners prepared the
detailed infrastructure plans. Parsons International is the project manager.

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Chapter two

Working in Qatar

First: Labor Law
Second: Human Resources Law
Third: Workplace Safety and Disputes
Forth: Qatarization



Working in Qatar

1- Labor Law

The Labor Law of Qatar provides a body of laws and regulations outlining the legal rights, restric-
tions and obligations of workers, employers and workers committees. All parties involved should
adhere to the Labor Law.

Qatari Employment :

• Priority in employment is given to Qatari citizens. The Ministry of Labor provides various services
to match employers with available talent. Qatari citizens who are looking for work should register
with the ministry for potential job placements.
• Employers who wish to hire non-Qataris or recruit workers from abroad are required to obtain
permission from the government.

Sponsorship :

• Foreigners may work in Qatar under sponsorship.
• Without special permission, a sponsored employee may not work for another employer. Transfer
of sponsorship may be granted in cases where both the original and potential new employers agree
to the change. Without a release letter, a person must leave the country for a minimum of two years
before returning to work for another employer.
• Sponsors may not keep the passports of their employees except to complete visa formalities.
• Sponsored employees may apply to bring their spouses and children to Qatar under personal sponsorship.

Working Hours :

• The maximum number of working hours allowed without overtime pay is 48 hours per week.
Working hours are reduced to 36 per week during the month of Ramadan.
• Workers are entitled to at least one day of rest per week. Friday is the common day of rest for all
workers except those who handle shift work. No employee should work two or more Fridays in a row.

Workers Committees :

Qatari workers may form workers committees and join larger trade unions. Strikes are allowed as
long as they follow the rules of the Labor Law.

Work Visa :

Foreign employees working in Qatar are required to carry work visas. Sponsors may apply for a
work visa online once all the required documents are available.

Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for a work visa online:

• Fill out the online application form.
• Modify any part of your information. Supply all required information and documents,
• including your ID/Establishment ID and the employee’s passport.
• Confirm and submit application.
• Pay appropriate fees if the application is approved.
• Print visa.

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Residence and Work Permits

• For those not familiar with residence and work permits in their own countries, Qatar’s system
may at first seem complicated and restrictive.
• However, this is not the case and you will soon realize that, in most cases, the system is flexible
and inclusive. For instance, if you would like your family to join you in Qatar to live, you can
personally sponsor your family. Additionally, if your wife wishes to work on a local contract basis
she can by simply registering with the Labor Department.

The Residency Permit – the basics :

• All newcomers wishing to work and live in Qatar require a Work Residence Permit (commonly
referred to as an RP) for which they will need a Qatari sponsor (company or individual).
• It is typically the responsibility of the sponsor to handle all paperwork required to obtain the
Residence Permit on behalf of the worker. When a worker first enters Qatar, their sponsor will
arrange for a temporary visa which is then converted to a Work Residency Permit – a process that
typically takes 2-4 weeks and sometimes longer. Applicants may not leave the country during the
period of visa-to-permit conversion.

The Residency Permit :

• Once a worker receives their Work Residence Permit he or she can then access many other
services, apply for further permits and licenses, sign a rental accommodation agreement, apply
for a loan, and the list goes on.
• Another key benefit of the Residence Permit is that it allows the worker to personally sponsor
their immediate family members (spouse, sons, daughters) to join them and live in Qatar (see
Family Residence Visa below).
• Work Residence Permits are renewed each year by the worker’s sponsor.

Family Residence Visa – permission for your family to stay :

• Expatriate workers can sponsor their immediate family members. Every family member, in-
cluding infants, must have an individual Family Residence Visa. The Visa can be purchased for a
period of 1-5 years and is stamped in each family member’s passport.
• Applicants are required to submit a number of documents, including authenticated marriage
and birth certificates, no-objection letter and salary certificate from their employer.
• Registering as a Working Woman
• A woman who is in Qatar on a family sponsorship and who has approval from her husband
may register to work without obtaining a separate work permit. Applicants may visit the Labor
Department to complete the application process.

Searching for a Job

There are many ways to find a job in Qatar. While opportunities are abundant, it’s up to you to
advertise and market your skills to potential employers.

Some resources may be helpful include:
• Newspaper classifieds. Local newspapers include Gulf Times and Qatar Tribune.
• Online job banks, such as Qatar Visitor Jobs, Monster Gulf and Gulf Talent.
• Official websites of companies and organizations in Qatar.
• Business-friendly social media, such as LinkedIn.
• Web forums.

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2- Human Resources Law

• Qatar’s modernized Human Resources Law came into effect on April 1, 2009. The new law
underscores the state`s commitment to the development of its employees and the assurance of a safe
and fair working environment.

• The Human Resources Law applies to all civil servants of Qatari ministries and other government
agencies, public authorities and institutions. It provides detailed information about everything from
budgets to job creation, job descriptions, grading criteria, recruitment processes, appointment and
approval procedures.

• To be covered by this law, employees must be at least 18 years of age, qualified for the job
description (such as government entity entrance requirements), be medically fit, have no criminal
record and must not have been dismissed from a prior, similar position.

• Government entities should not hire a non-Qatari if a Qatari is qualified for the job. If a Qatari
national is not available for a specific position, the order for consideration of non-Qatari emplyees is
as follows: sons of Qatari women married to non-Qataris, non-Qataris married to Qatari nationals,
Gulf Corporation Council nationals and Arab country nationals.

Probationary Period and Appraisal :

• New employees must complete a three month probationary period. Three additional months can
be added to this if the employer deems it necessary. Employees found to be incompetent at the end
of their probationary period are usually terminated. Successful probationary employees then work
under annual, renewable employment contracts.

• The law provides training, development and rehabilitation opportunities designed to enhance
employee skills. Annual performance appraisals involve both the employee and employer as much
as possible and the principles and criteria for performing evaluations are spelled out in detail.
Employees have a 15-day period in which to appeal an employment appraisal and the employer must
respond within 30 days. The employers’ decision will be final. All disciplinary sanctions and appeal
processes, whether on probation or as a permanent employee, are set out in the legislation.

Resignation and Compensation :

Employees may terminate their employment during the probationary period by giving 15 days notice
to the employer. Employees may resign at any other time during their employment by providing 30
days’ written notice, or until such time as the resignation is accepted by the employer.
Permanent employees will receive compensation packages that commensurate with their
qualifications. Compensation packages cover topics such as basic salaries, transportation allowances,
and per diem payments for employees working outside Qatar.

Rights and Promotions :

• Also covered by the law are holiday, casual, sick, emergency, study and unpaid leave. Of note,
every employee must take at least half of his or her holiday leave each year.

• Occupational health and safety issues are an important focus of Qatar’s Human Resources Law. All
employees may claim up to one year of sick leave, with full salary and benefits. A second year, at half
salary, may be added to this, if proven to be medically necessary.

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• Promotions are available to all employees whose work performance has not fallen below a grade of
“very good” during the prior two-year period. The state can also make special promotions available
to employees who demonstrate excellence in their employment. Special promotions can only be
awarded to an employee twice during their work life, and those two promotions must occur at least
ten years apart.

Retirement :

• The retirement age is 60, but jobs may be extended on an annual basis by the agreement of both
parties, in accordance with workplace requirements.

• Pensions are calculated by the number of years an employee has worked for the state. The basic rate
is one month’s salary for each year of the first 5 years of service, and two months salary for each year
after that. The employee’s last salary level is used to determine his or her pension amount.

• Non-Qatari pensions are calculated differently, at a rate of one months’ salary for each full year of
service, to a maximum of ten months.

• If an employee should die while working for the government, his or her gross salary for three months
will be paid out at the time of death to the appropriate family member. In the event of the death of
a spouse, a female Muslim employed as a civil servant, is entitled to four months and ten days leave.
Non-Qatari’s who may die while employed with the state, will have their funeral costs covered and
as well, Qatar will pay for transport costs for the body and one family member to travel with the body.

• Human Resources Law (2009) does not apply to certain members of the judiciary, diplomats and
consular corps, university lecturers and employees of Qatar Petroleum, the State Audit Bureau and
Amiri Diwan.

3- Workplace Safety and Disputes

• Qatari Law mandates employers or their representatives to advise workers at the beginning of their
employment, and whenever updates are needed, of any potential dangers associated with their jobs.
• Employers must take the necessary measures to protect employees during work from any injury
or disease that might result from the works carried out in their establishments or from any accident,
defect, or malfunction in machines and equipment, or through fires.
• If an employer fails to take these measures, causing imminent danger to the health and safety of his/
her employees, workers may then bring the issue to the Ministry of Labor. The ministry has the author-
ity to partially or completely shut down the work place, or stop the work of one or more machines,
until the hazard is eliminated.

Injuries at Work :

• Injuries at work refer to any injury caused by an accident during the worker’s duty or because of it.
It can happen on the way to or back from work, provided that the trip is not interrupted or diverted
from the person’s normal, daily route to his/her place of work.
• Employers are responsible for covering the costs of treatments. Employees who cannot continue to
work as a result of work-related injuries should receive full salary during the first six months of treat-
ment. After that, they should receive half pay until they are fully recovered or deemed permanently disabled.
• In cases of death resulting from workplace accidents, employers are required by law to fully com-
pensate the victims’ families. Those who suffer from total and permanent disability are entitled to the
same level of compensation.

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Qatarization



Qatarization

Industry-wide Strategic Qatarization Plan :

The Plan includes all operating and non-operating companies in Qatar’s Energy and Industry
Sector. The Plan is a dynamic five-year rolling plan. The objective is Quality Qatarization.

New Plan :

Qatarization is not new to the industry. This current Plan contains very specific activities in support
of company Qatari human capital requirements to meet the Qatarization target. Committees
and teams are periodically established to study, manage and implement a variety of activities
designed to support the individual company Qatarization plans.

Definition

Qatarization is the identification and development of quality, competent Qatari male and female
employees to assume permanent established positions.

Strategic Focus

The focus is Quality Qatarization through emphasis on key and sensitive positions by applying
performance-based, not time-based, training and development. Support and commitment are
required from all levels of staff.

Partnership with Education :

The significance of Qataris acquiring qualifications and education related to our business needs
cannot be underestimated. Professional alliances with local and international academic and
vocational institutions enhance articulation, and helps ensure Qatari candidates acquire the
necessary educational qualifications to excel at the vocational and undergraduate levels.

Training :

The intake of the majority of high school graduate Qataris is directed to Qatar Petroleum’ s Cor-
porate Training Centre.

Qatari Development :

Some Qataris join the companies at either Senior Staff or Junior Staff levels, depending on their
qualifications, either as a direct hire, or to a position where they require further development.
The latter is targeted to a position and placed on a tailored development plan.

Qatarization Target :

The overall Qatarization percentage target for the Energy and Industry Sector is 50 per cent. The
target is a function of focusing on key and sensitive positions, tied to company business plans
and reaching and maintaining 50 per cent, or greater, Qataris in permanent positions.

Support :

Qatarization represents a significant investment for each company in support of the preparation
of Qatari human capital as one of the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030, and in support
of the National Development Strategy. All participating companies provide commitment to and

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flexibility at all levels to help meet the objective.

Key Activities :
Companies have committed to a number of key activities.

Governance - Monitor, Review and Update :

The Plan is updated annually, plus an annual review meeting is held with His Excellency, the
Minister of Energy and Industry. The Strategic Qatarization Plan incorporates an overseeing,
sector-wide Steering Committee supported by two committees dealing with recruitment and the
other with training and development. Each company regularly monitors, reviews and updates
their respective plan and submits Qatari demand data based on a five year forecast. Updating the
sector-wide Plan annually is directed through the Sector’s Strategic Qatarization Unit who also
hold regular meetings with companies in the Plan throughout the year.

Careers

Based on your performance, there will be a variety of career opportunities throughout your work-
ing life.Various careers are available within the Energy and Industry Sector. Career opportunities
differ from one company to another but may include positions in the following disciplines:

Engineering Positions Other Positions

Chemical Geology
Petroleum Marine
Petrophysical Finance and Accounting
Geology Safety and Fire
Electrical Legal
Industrial Environmental Science
Mechanical Logistics (Warehousing, Procurement)
Civil Administration Support
Instrumentation Medical Science
Telecommunications Business Administration
Computer Computer Science

Technician Positions

IT Support
Process
Electrical
Mechanical
Instrumentation
Laboratory

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COMMERCIAL COMPANIES

A- AGRICULTURE & RELATED SERVICES • Telecommunication & Data System, Equipment
Supplier
• Irrigation Contractors & Consultants
• Irrigation Equipment & Suppliers • Computer Services
• Electronics & Technology
B- AUTOMOBILE
H- CONSTRUCTION
• Motor Cycle, Car/Auto Spare Parts and
Accesories • Civil Construction- Steel Structure-
Fabrication & Heavy Equipment Rentals
• Tyre Services & Dealers & Battery Suppliers
• Car Services • Road, Bridge, Tunnel Construction– Asphalt
• Car Dealers &Bitumen Supplier, Concrete Products
• Car Painting
• Building Materials – concrete, wood, metal,
• Car Rental tools, stone, granite & machines

C- BANKING, FINANCE, INSURANCE & • Building Maintenance, Repairs & Restoration
ACCOUNTING • Building Contractors/Civil - General

• Insurance Companies & Agents Construction
• Finance Companies & Stock & Bond Brokers • Swimming Pool Contractors, Dealers, Supplier
• Banks
• Investment Company & Maintenance Services
• Accounting & Auditing • Drilling Contractors, Ground Engineering,

• Money Changer Tunnelling Contractors
• Structural Construction – Steel
D- BUSINESS SERVICES & CONSULTANTS • Quarry Construction
• HVAC, Plumbing & Installation Contractors
• Manpower & Human Resources • Marine & Land Surveying Equipment
• Inspection, Testing, Training Services & • Blasting & Painting Contractors
• Insulation Contractors
Consultants • MEP, Electro Mechanical Contractors
• Business Development, Inspection & Sponsorship • Air-condition Contractors, Accessories&

Support Maintenance
• Security Services • Elevator & Escalator Services
• Marketing Consultancy • Industrial contractors & services
• Material Testing, Labs, TRAINING & Consultants • Architectural, Engineer Consulting, Interior
• Clearances
• Law Firm Consultancy Designing & Landscape
• Environmental Consultancy • Decorators, Interior and Exterior Design
• Tools (Air, Hand, Hydraulic)
• Translation Services • MEP suppliers(Mechanical,Electrical&

E- CLOTHING TEXTILES & JEWELERY Plumbing
• Heavy and light equipment suppliers
• Clothings • Cranes and related equipment
• Curtains & Carpets • Compressor sale and rental
• Jewelries • Industrial machineries sale and rental
• Opticals
• Perfumes I- EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

• Retails • Automobile Driving School
• Training Services & Consultant
F- COMMUNICATION & PROMOTIONS • University
• College
• Advertising Agency & Solution • Educational Services
• Event Organizer – Advertising, Photography • School
• Neon Signs Manufacturers, Poster Printing • Nursery
• Promotional Items,Flowers , Gifts and Novelty
• Preparatory School for Boys
• Publishing & Printing • Center for Special Needs

G- COMPUTER, TECHNOLOGY & Telecom

• I.T Solutions

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