Alternative finance is redefining how capital is accessed and deployed, providing businesses with flexible, non-traditional options beyond conventional banking.
The momentum aligns with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (2024–2030), which aims to expand SME access to finance through new regulations, stronger banking and alternative financing pathways, and programmes that enhance governance and financial transparency. It also reflects a broader regional shift towards models that widen access to capital for SMEs, high-growth ventures and specialised industry needs.
In this evolving landscape, QFC provides legal clarity, regulatory support and operating environment companies need to set up and expand with confidence. Aligned with Qatar’s Financial Sector Strategy and the country’s digital finance goals, QFC enables firms in aviation finance, shipping finance, and capital leasing to operate within an environment committed to advancing modern, future-ready financial solutions.
Through a supportive regulatory and legal environment, QFC enables companies to establish and grow specialised finance operations across aviation, shipping and leasing sectors.
Aviation is one of the world’s most dynamic asset classes and QFC offers an ideal base for aviation finance companies seeking an efficient, internationally aligned environment to structure and grow their operations. Qatar’s strategic location between East and West - supported by Hamad International Airport - further reinforces Doha’s position as a leading aviation and logistics hub.
Through QFC-registered Special Purpose Companies, firms can undertake aircraft leasing and financing, execute sale-and-leaseback transactions and establish aviation-focused funds.
As Qatar’s aviation sector continues to expand, QFC provides a compelling platform for global lessors, financiers, and aviation fund managers to capture opportunities across the country and wider region. Strong regulatory standards, access to double taxation agreements and flexible corporate structures make QFC an attractive jurisdiction for aviation finance activity and long-term growth.
Non-Regulated Activities
● Aircraft Leasing
Qatar’s position as a rising maritime hub is creating strong demand for specialised financing and leasing solutions. Shipping Finance firms licensed at QFC can operate within a stable, business-friendly environment that supports complex cross-border activity while accommodating the sector’s technical requirements.
Through QFC-registered SPCs, firms can establish vessel-owning entities, access asset-backed financing, and manage maritime transactions with confidence and efficiency. This enables shipping finance companies to execute bareboat leasing and chartering arrangements, strengthen fleet strategies and adopt financing models tailored to commercial needs.
With regional trade routes expanding and Qatar’s logistics capabilities advancing rapidly, QFC provides a robust platform for maritime financiers seeking to grow their presence and capture long-term opportunities.
QFC offers a compelling environment for capital leasing companies interested in securing innovative ways to finance high-value assets. Firms can structure finance leases that include ownership transfer, as well as asset-access models that help businesses grow without relying on traditional borrowing.
The framework supports tailored leasing solutions across equipment, vehicles and major infrastructure, giving companies flexible tools to meet the changing industry and operational demands. QFC also enables cross-border leasing arrangements with tax and legal optimisation, helping firms expand their reach while improving transaction efficiency.
With these advantages, QFC stands out as a forward-looking base for capital leasing providers aiming to scale, innovate and capture emerging regional opportunities.
GET STARTED
Setting up a business at QFC is a transparent, efficient and seamless process. Requirements vary depending on the nature of your activities.
Connect with the QFC team to discuss your plans, proposed activities and eligibility to set up at QFC.
Work with our team to identify your activities and select the appropriate legal structure for your entity.
Confirm whether your activities are regulated or non-regulated
Select the appropriate legal structure within QFC framework
Align your business model with QFC's financial solutions offerings
A link will be shared with the applicant to complete the form and provide the application requirements.
Provide a business plan covering your strategy, target market, ownership structure and three-year financial projections.
Please note: Applications for regulated financial services must include a Regulated Business Plan (RBP) detailing governance, risk management, compliance and capital adequacy.
Your application will be reviewed by QFC team. If your activities are regulated, the QFC Regulatory Authority (QFCRA) will conduct a detailed assessment of your business model, governance arrangements, capital position and risk framework.
You may be asked to provide clarifications or additional documentation.
Once approved, your entity will be incorporated and licensed. You will receive your official registration documents and can proceed with post-licensing steps, such as:
Commercial Registration Extract
License Certificate
License Letter
Incorporation Certificate
After registration, QFC will facilitate the process of obtaining the computer card and setting up the bank account.
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