File picture used for representation.
Retail shops can renew their commercial licences online in a faster and easier manner, thanks to new measures being adopted by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce.
The Ministry said yesterday that the new measures will enable investors to immediately renew their commercial business licences, a process that earlier required 48 hours.
The initiative is one of numerous smart electronic services that the Ministry has launched to develop the business environment in Qatar, streamline customer services, and improve the country’s investment and business climate. Investors seeking to renew their licence through the ministry’s website (https://services.mec.gov.qa) should upload the following documents: a copy of the identification papers of the applicant and business owner; third-party approvals (for certain activities, if applicable); and Civil Defence approval (for certain sites, if applicable). After the payment of fees, the licence is instantly emailed to the address registered at the Ministry.
Applicants can also visit the Ministry headquarters in Lusail, or any of the Ministry’s branches, and submit the following documents: the renewal application form that can be obtained from the Ministry’s website (the form should be completed electronically without omissions or amendments); a copy of the identification papers of the applicant and business owner; third-party approvals (for certain activities, if applicable); and Civil Defense approval (for certain sites, if applicable). After the payment of fees, the license will be immediately given to the applicant.
Retailers have hailed the Ministry initiative hoping it would help avoid delays in renewal of licences. “Currently the renewal process takes longer time, especially if the documents are not in order. The online renewal would help reduce delays and save time and efforts spent in visiting the ministry offices,” said a retailer.
The Ministry said that it has launched a number of smart electronic services designed to significantly improve the quality of services offered to clients including consumers, investors and members of the public with an interest in economic affairs.
These electronic services include: the issuance and renewal of commercial licenses and download copies of documents; searching for a commercial name; establishing and obtaining information about companies; issuing and renewing commercial registrations; requesting a non-ownership certificate; and a number of administrative services that enable business owners to easily manage and operate their businesses.
