Auditors and accounting firms are registered in Qatar through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which licences the audit profession and sets the activities, fees and conditions. Registration is time-limited and renewable, and foreign accounting firms need a Qatari audit partner.
This guide covers the activities, fees, conditions and how to register.
Key takeaways
- Registration fees: QAR 500 (natural person), QAR 3,000 (Qatari accounting company) and QAR 20,000 (foreign branch).
- Registration is valid for three years.
- A decision is issued within two days, and the committee decides within two weeks.
- 50 training hours are required every three-year cycle.
- Foreign accounting firms cannot be 100% owned and need a Qatari auditor partner.
The audit activities
- Auditing – activity code 6920101.
- Financial consultancy – 6920201.
- Tax consultancy – 6920001.
- Economic consultancy – 6920901.
Registration fees
| Applicant | Registration fee |
|---|---|
| Natural person (auditor) | QAR 500 |
| Qatari accounting company | QAR 3,000 |
| Foreign accounting firm branch | QAR 20,000 |
Registration is valid for three years and must be renewed.
Conditions to note
- Decision within two days, and the committee decides within two weeks.
- 50 training hours per three-year cycle.
- Foreign accounting firms register as a branch with a Qatari auditor partner; 100% foreign ownership is not permitted for these firms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to register as an auditor in Qatar?
QAR 500 for a natural person, QAR 3,000 for a Qatari accounting company and QAR 20,000 for a foreign accounting firm branch.
How long is registration valid?
Registration is valid for three years and renewable.
Can a foreign accounting firm be fully foreign owned in Qatar?
No. Foreign accounting firms register as a branch and require a Qatari auditor partner.
Related reading
Official sources
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry (moci.gov.qa)
- Invest Qatar – Setting Up Your Business in Qatar (invest.qa)
WRITTEN BY
Jisham
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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