Indian entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals now have a more affordable Gulf residency option after Qatar announced its new 10-year residency permit at Web Summit Qatar yesterday.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | Announced February 10, 2026 |
| Who’s Affected | Indian investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals |
| Key Change | 10-year residency with ₹2.3 crore investment threshold |
Significant Cost Advantage Over UAE
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani unveiled the permit targeting founders, investors, and highly skilled professionals with a QAR 1 million (approximately ₹2.3 crore) investment requirement. This represents a substantial ₹90 lakh savings compared to the UAE Golden Visa’s AED 2 million (₹4.1 crore) threshold.
The new permit expands Qatar’s existing Mustaqel visa program and offers comprehensive benefits including property ownership rights, business establishment privileges, and family sponsorship capabilities. For Indian nationals—already Qatar’s largest expatriate community—this creates an attractive alternative for establishing a long-term Gulf presence.
Strategic Positioning for Indian Businesses
Industry analysts note that Indian startups, particularly in Web3 and sports-tech sectors, are evaluating Doha as a strategic base ahead of the 2030 Asian Games. Qatar’s zero percent personal income tax policy and world-class infrastructure connectivity add to the appeal for businesses seeking Gulf market access.
The timing aligns with Qatar’s broader economic diversification strategy, moving beyond hydrocarbon dependence toward knowledge-based industries. For Indian companies considering Gulf expansion, our UAE Visa Guide provides comparative insights into regional residency options.
Implementation Timeline and Considerations
Despite the attractive pricing, Qatar’s program currently lacks the comprehensive free-zone structures that permit 100% foreign ownership across sectors—a key differentiator from Dubai’s offerings. Legal experts anticipate detailed regulations within three months, addressing qualifying business categories, designated property zones, and mandatory health insurance requirements.
Unlike some competing programs, Qatar doesn’t offer automatic citizenship pathways or formal tax residency certificates. However, the 0% personal income tax and strategic location provide compelling advantages for Indian businesses targeting regional markets.
For those planning applications, using our Document Checklist can help streamline the preparation process once detailed requirements are published.
Source: Office of the Prime Minister, Qatar
FAQ
Q: What is the investment requirement for Qatar’s 10-year residency permit? A: The minimum investment requirement is QAR 1 million, approximately ₹2.3 crore, in approved investments within Qatar.
Q: How does Qatar’s permit compare to the UAE Golden Visa? A: Qatar’s permit requires ₹2.3 crore investment versus UAE’s ₹4.1 crore (AED 2 million), making it ₹90 lakh cheaper for Indian investors.
Q: Can I sponsor my family members with this permit? A: Yes, the 10-year residency permit allows holders to sponsor family members and provides the right to own property and businesses.
Q: When will the detailed regulations be available? A: Legal analysts expect accompanying regulations within three months, clarifying qualifying businesses, property zones, and health insurance obligations.
Q: Does Qatar offer automatic citizenship like some other countries? A: No, Qatar does not provide an automatic path to citizenship or a formal tax residency certificate, unlike some other long-term visa programs.