The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) in Qatar has announced substantial reductions and new exemptions to real estate registration and notarization fees, effective immediately. These changes, outlined in Ministerial Decision No. (5) of 2026, aim to streamline access to government services and bolster the country’s investment climate. The fee adjustments impact a wide range of transactions, from property transfers to document authentication, offering potential savings for citizens and businesses alike.
The decision, issued by Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs H E Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi, applies to all individuals and entities conducting relevant transactions within Qatar. It represents a significant shift in government policy, prioritizing ease of doing business and reducing financial burdens associated with legal processes. These updates are expected to affect both the local population and foreign investors.
Significant Reductions in Real Estate Registration Fees
A key focus of the changes is lowering the cost of real estate registration. Fees for transferring possession of farms and marine lands have been reduced from 1% of the market value to 0.25% of the assessed value, a considerable decrease for large land holdings. This adjustment is intended to encourage investment in agricultural and coastal properties.
Additionally, the cost of finalizing the subdivision and registering off-plan units has been standardized at QR100 per unit. Replacement title deeds, previously costing QR500, are now available for QR100. The issuance of a title deed and registration map has also seen a reduction, moving from QR300 to QR100.
Expanded Fee Exemptions
Beyond fee reductions, the MoJ has introduced a series of exemptions for specific transaction types. Notarization services provided to ministries, government bodies, public authorities, and institutions are now entirely exempt. This measure is expected to reduce administrative costs for public sector operations.
Charitable donations and wills are also exempt from notarization fees, supporting philanthropic activities within the country. Furthermore, the incorporation of new companies and private institutions, including the registration of their constitutional documents, will be fee-free for first-time establishments, fostering entrepreneurship and economic diversification.
Exemptions also extend to real estate transactions involving government entities, charitable endowments, and properties allocated to citizens under existing legislation. Inheritance-related documents, such as estate distribution and waivers issued by the Family Court, are now processed without fees. Court rulings that invalidate prior registrations are similarly exempt.
The decision clarifies the application of property law to the preliminary real estate register, aligning it with the Real Estate Development Law No. (6) of 2014. Mortgage and lien registration fees have been adjusted to 0.025% of the secured debt value. New fixed fees of QR500 have been introduced for property transfers related to company mergers, divisions, or dissolutions, as well as transfers between individuals and their family-owned businesses.
For individuals aged 60 and above, mobile service fees – covering situations where a ministry employee visits the applicant’s location – have been reduced from QR1,000 to QR200. Persons with disabilities and social security beneficiaries are fully exempt from these mobile service charges, enhancing accessibility for vulnerable populations. These changes reflect a broader commitment to social welfare and inclusive government services.
According to the Ministry of Justice, these measures are part of an ongoing effort to modernize judicial services, simplify procedures, and improve the overall quality of service delivery. The ministry also stated its commitment to expanding digital services in line with international best practices, further streamlining processes and reducing reliance on traditional paperwork. This aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which emphasizes economic diversification and a knowledge-based economy.
The long-term impact of these changes on Qatar’s investment environment remains to be seen. However, the MoJ anticipates increased transaction volumes and greater confidence among investors due to the reduced financial barriers. Further announcements regarding the implementation of these changes and potential future adjustments are expected in the coming months, particularly concerning the integration of new digital platforms for property registration and notarization.
The Ministry has not specified a timeline for a comprehensive review of the impact of these changes, but stakeholders should monitor official announcements for updates on future policy adjustments related to these fees.
