The Home-Based Business Licence lets a Qatari citizen run a small business legally from home, at a low cost and without commercial premises. It is one of the simplest legal routes to test a business idea.
This guide explains who qualifies, the official activity list, and how to apply.
Key takeaways
- It is available to Qatari citizens only.
- It covers one activity per licence.
- The home address on the owner ID must match the licensed address.
- It carries a low government fee for eligible activities listed by MoCI.
Who qualifies
The home-based licence is designed for Qatari citizens who want to operate from their official residence. The property must be the owner registered home, and the address on the Qatari ID must match the address being licensed.
Rules and limits
- The business must operate from the owner official residence.
- One activity is allowed per licence.
- Hiring workers from outside Qatar is not permitted.
- Sales are made directly to end customers.
Fee and eligible activities
Eligible activities are listed in the official home-activities schedule, with a fee of about QAR 300 per activity. In practice, the total cost of the licence is low, at roughly QAR 1,020 (about USD 280) depending on the activity.
How to apply
- Choose an eligible activity from the MoCI home-activities schedule.
- Prepare the documents: building completion certificate or land plan, title deed, the owner undertaking, a KAHRAMAA certificate and ID copies.
- Apply through MoCI with the Anawani address board where required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expatriates get a home-based business licence in Qatar?
Can I run more than one activity on a home licence?
What is the home licence fee?
Related reading
Official sources
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry (moci.gov.qa)
- Invest Qatar – Setting Up Your Business in Qatar (invest.qa)
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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