Qatar Unveils Significant Licensing Enhancements for Tourism Sector
Qatar has approved new regulations to bolster its tourism sector by making it easier for businesses to offer a range of discounts and promotions.
3 min
The Tourism Licensing Department at Qatar Tourism, in cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), has launched a joint initiative to streamline the licensing procedures for tourism establishments. This initiative is designed to ensure compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements, facilitating a smoother and more efficient licensing process.
This effort not only simplifies the application and issuance of licenses but also allows tourism businesses to adhere to strict regulations without interruption. The main objective is to expedite the Qualitative Licensing Services for hotels and tourism establishments, thereby stimulating the sector’s growth.
Furthermore, MOCI and Qatar Tourism are working together to minimize the challenges faced by the sector, particularly in obtaining licenses for promotional activities and managing price reductions. The initiative also covers licenses for festivals, events, and exhibitions, aiming to enhance operational efficiency.
An innovative aspect of this collaboration is the introduction of a one-fee annual license that encompasses all offers and discounts a hotel might offer, as outlined in their marketing strategies.
Visit Qatar, the main arm of Qatar Tourism, will manage the application process on behalf of participants in festivals and events, streamlining procedures and enhancing sector-wide cooperation.
This streamlined approach not only protects businesses but also expands opportunities within the industry, allowing for a safer and more optimal tourism experience for visitors. Moreover, the initiative includes advanced, expedited qualitative licensing services set to commence this month.
Hassan Sultan Al Ghanim, Assistant Undersecretary for Consumer Affairs at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said: “This was introduced to facilitate the procedures for obtaining specific licenses for tourism and hospitality establishments, where obtaining the license would take one business day, with the prerequisite that all terms and conditions are met, and the required documents submitted. This would have a direct positive impact on the entire sectors value chain.
“The tourism sector has been identified as one of the key sectors in the country’s economy, which contributes to attracting investments and increasing the revenues.”
He added: “This initiative comes within the framework of the efforts of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to develop the business environment and facilitate business ventures in the country, and to establish an encouraging investment environment for entrepreneurs and investors”.
Omar Al Jaber, Acting Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, said: “The new licensing initiative by Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry aims to enhance tourism offerings across relevant businesses and provide necessary protection for the activities of these establishments.
“Thus, providing the sector the flexibility to intensify its efforts by launching promotional campaigns that revive their work as well as provide tourists opportunities to enjoy attractive offerings, enhancing visitors experience.
“This initiative reflects Qatar Tourisms commitment to develop and expand the reach of the tourism sector in the country, by including more tourism and hospitality businesses and focus on being comprehensive with its licensing protocol and elevating the efficacy and transparency of key services.”
Overall, Qatar Tourism is dedicated to collaborating with both private and public stakeholders to ease licensing processes, improve access for tourism establishments, and revive the sector. Continuous improvements in the licensing landscape are aimed at alleviating challenges faced by hotels, reducing financial burdens during off-peak seasons, and removing barriers to application.
The dual objectives of this initiative are to protect business interests and uphold high-quality licensing standards, thereby maintaining the integrity and reputation of Qatar’s tourism sector.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
Compliance with these deadlines is crucial to avoid administrative penalties.
2 min
The UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) is urging Corporate Taxpayers to adhere to submission deadlines to avoid fines. Specifically, Resident Juridical Persons with licenses issued in May (regardless of the year) must submit their Corporate Tax registration applications by July 31, 2024, in line with Federal Tax Authority Decision No. 3 of 2024.
This decision aligns with the Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses and its amendments, effective from March 1, 2024. The FTA stresses the importance of meeting these registration deadlines, which have been communicated through various media channels and direct outreach to registered company owners in the UAE.
Utilizing the EmaraTax Platform
Compliance with these deadlines is crucial to avoid administrative penalties. The deadlines apply to both juridical and natural persons, including Resident and Non-Resident Persons in the UAE. Detailed information on these deadlines and other relevant issuances can be found on the FTA’s official website.
According to the FTA’s Public Clarification, Resident Juridical Persons established or recognized before March 1, 2024, must submit their tax registration applications based on the month their license was issued. Those with expired licenses as of March 1, 2024, should submit their applications based on the original issuance month. For those holding multiple licenses, the earliest issuance date applies.
Administrative penalties for corporate tax violations have been in effect since August 1, 2023. To facilitate the registration process, taxpayers must use the “EmaraTax” digital platform, available 24/7, or seek assistance from accredited tax agents and government service centers.
The FTA has also emphasized the importance of providing accurate information and submitting updated supporting documents correctly with the electronic registration application, noting that registering for Corporate Tax for a juridical person requires uploading various documents, including the commercial license, the Emirates ID card, the passport of the authorized signatory, and proof of authorization for the authorized signatory.
A comprehensive video explaining the registration process through the “EmaraTax” platform is available on the FTA’s website. This platform, designed according to international best practices, aims to streamline the registration journey, submission of periodic returns, and payment of due taxes for all UAE taxpayers.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
