Creative Licensing
At M7, we are dedicated to supporting Qatar's commitment to fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem, attracting both global and local creative talent.
The Creatives Business Referral Programme, aim to simplify the Commercial Registration and Residency Permit processes required to set up your business in Qatar through our centralized online platform. This new initiative provides guidance and coaching for creatives on the requirements and procedures as well as offers referrals that facilitate creatives to setup their businesses in Qatar with confidence.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Do I need to be a resident or local to apply?
We welcome applications from non-residents, residents, and Qatari individuals. To apply, you should meet the criteria for a successful business plan or demonstrate a significant role in the creative industry. Please note that applications may be rejected based on the nature of the business model, or you may be asked to revise your proposal.
Can I obtain a Qatari residence permit by applying through this process?
The Creative Licensing process allows you to register a business. The owner or other employees can be sponsored by the company. However, residency related matters are subject to Ministry of Interior processing and approvals.
Can I open a corporate bank account if I register my business through this process?
Absolutely, creatives will be able to establish a fully functional registered business and open a corporate bank account.
Do I need to have a Qatari partner if I am not Qatari?
No, the referral through M7 exempts creatives from the requirement of having a Qatari partner. All nationalities are able to have full ownership of their business.
Do I need a physical location for my business to register through this process for commercial registration?
No, you do not need a physical location as your business will be incubated at M7 for two years. After that period, you should plan to secure your own location. Workinton, one of M7’s resident partners, offers a co-working space with excellent options. Additionally, M7 is a designated building under the Qatar Financial Center (QFC), so if your business is registered with the QFC, you can also be housed at M7.
How much would it cost me to register my business?
If you are registered with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry pricing starts at $2000. If you were to register with Qatar Financial Center or Media City, then pricing starts at $5000. Pricing may change depending on your business domain.
Are all creativity domains included in this process?
Yes, most creatives are welcome to apply, however the pathway would change depending on the domain. Some applicants will be referred to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, others to Qatar Financial Center and Media related domains to Media City. (Examples:
Are media and technology considered part of the creative industries, and can they
benefit from creative licensing?
Yes, they can. Through our partnership and referral program with Media City Qatar, businesses involved in media production, content creation, gaming, technology, and
innovation are eligible to apply for a creative license. However, this is limited to businesses that, during the application process, demonstrate a business plan that contributes to and enhances Qatar’s creative ecosystem.
What are the benefits for a non-Qatar resident to register their business in Qatar?
Registering a business in Qatar offers numerous advantages. Beyond the ability to apply for a residence permit, entrepreneurs gain access to a thriving and rapidly growing creative ecosystem. This includes eligibility for various programs, mentorships, commercial and investment opportunities, and valuable networking events that can help expand and grow their business.
Does M7 offer additional services to creative businesses once registered in Qatar?
Yes, M7 provides extensive support to creative businesses in various ways. This includes tailored mentorship programs designed to meet their specific needs, as well as opportunities for showcasing work through pop-ups and exhibitions. M7 also organizes structured programs aimed at helping businesses grow and expand internationally. Once registered in Qatar, creative businesses can also apply to Scale7, M7's resident business incubator, which provides specialized business development programs and investment opportunities for startups in the creative industries.
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“ “As a solo entrepreneur, the referral program through M7 helped me immensely in waiving some of the significant hurdles of setting up my business in Qatar" ”Roni Helou, Fashion Designer