Choosing a trade name in Qatar is not free-form. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reviews every proposed name against a published set of rules, and a name that breaks any of them is returned. Understanding the rules before you apply saves a re-queue.
This guide sets out the rules, the words that need special approval, and how to reserve a name.
Key takeaways
- A name must not match or resemble a registered name for the same or a similar activity.
- Numbers must be written as words, and special symbols are not allowed.
- Words such as Qatar, National and General are restricted.
- Reservation costs QAR 1,000 on its own, and is free within a comprehensive establishment.
Who reviews trade names in Qatar
Trade-name applications are reviewed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and, for certain sectors, by the relevant regulator. The name must relate to the company purpose, respect public order, and avoid names reserved for the state or for well-known brands.
The trade name rules in detail
- No resemblance to a registered name for the same or a similar activity.
- No breach of public order, public morals or Sharia, and nothing offensive.
- The name must relate to the company purpose.
- No names of God, sectarian or religious names, or names, slogans and emblems of states and international organisations.
- No copying or resembling a registered local trademark or a well-known global brand, even if it is not registered in Qatar or the activity differs.
- Numbers written as words, not numerals, and no special symbols.
- Arabic or foreign letters are allowed if the name is Arabised so it can be read in Arabic.
- Tribal and family names cannot stand alone; a family name may be combined with the first name and the father name.
Words that need special approval
- Qatar, Qatari, National, General – reserved for companies in which the Qatari government is a founder or shareholder.
- Engineering – restricted to activities licensed or supervised by the relevant authority.
- Investment – restricted to licensed or supervised investment activities.
How to reserve and protect your name
- Search existing registrations to avoid a conflict.
- Submit the reservation through the MOCI Single Window.
- Complete the rest of your formation and, if needed, register the name as a trademark.
Reservation costs QAR 1,000 when requested on its own, and is free when it forms part of a comprehensive establishment.
Common reasons a name is rejected
- The name is too similar to an existing registration.
- It includes a restricted word or a state name.
- It uses numerals or special symbols.
- It resembles a well-known brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a trade name be in English or another language?
Yes, foreign letters are allowed provided the name is Arabised so it can be read and pronounced in Arabic.
Can I use the word Qatar in my company name?
Words such as Qatar, Qatari, National and General are reserved for companies in which the Qatari government is a founder or shareholder.
How much does it cost to reserve a trade name?
QAR 1,000 when requested on its own, and free when it forms part of a comprehensive establishment.
Related reading
Official sources
WRITTEN BYJisham
Head of Operations at Meem
4+ years of hands-on Qatar PRO experience, handling approvals and government procedures across multiple ministries and authorities, including establishment licensing and approvals.
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