Qatar has no VAT (yet).
Qatar does not currently impose Value Added Tax. The GCC-wide VAT framework was agreed in 2016 and KSA, UAE, Bahrain and Oman implemented it; Qatar and Kuwait have not. Plans periodically resurface but no implementation date has been announced as of 2026.
Indirect taxes that DO apply in Qatar
- Excise tax (Selective Tax Law No. 25 of 2018): 100% on tobacco, energy drinks, and special-purpose goods; 50% on carbonated and sugary drinks.
- Customs duty: 5% on most imported goods (GCC common external tariff).
- Corporate tax: 10% on profit of foreign-owned companies; nil on Qatari-owned. (See Qatar income tax overview.)
Frequently asked
Will Qatar introduce VAT?
The 2016 GCC VAT Agreement contemplates 5% VAT across all six member states; KSA, UAE, Bahrain and Oman have implemented it. Qatar has signalled intent multiple times but has not committed to a date. Watch Qatar General Tax Authority (gta.gov.qa) for announcements.
If Qatar adds VAT, what would the rate be?
The GCC framework standard rate is 5%. KSA later raised theirs to 15%; Qatar would likely begin at 5%.
Is there sales tax of any kind?
No general sales tax. Excise tax applies to specific products (tobacco at 100%, sugary drinks at 50%, energy drinks at 100%).
What about VAT on Saudi or UAE imports?
Goods imported from VAT-implementing GCC states are not subject to import VAT in Qatar; you pay normal customs (5%).