VAT · Qatar

VAT in Qatar 2026: is there VAT?

Hani · Founder & Tax Data Researcher · ArabTaxCalc

Qatar has not introduced VAT. Below: what is taxed instead, what is known about a start date, and the rates in the rest of the Gulf.

Short answer

Qatar does not apply VAT as of October 2026. The General Tax Authority does not list it among the taxes in force, and no official start date has been announced. Qatar has signed the GCC Common VAT Agreement, which sets the standard rate at 5%, so advisers expect it to come later, with no confirmed date.

What taxes apply to spending in Qatar?

The consumption tax that does apply in Qatar is excise tax on tobacco, energy drinks and sweetened drinks, which is built into the price of the product.

VAT in the Gulf states 2026

Country	Standard rate
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia	15%
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates	5%
🇶🇦 Qatar	Not applied
🇰🇼 Kuwait	Not applied
🇴🇲 Oman	5%
🇧🇭 Bahrain	10%

Frequently asked questions

Is there VAT in Qatar?

When will Qatar introduce VAT?

No official date has been announced. Any date you see online is a forecast by advisers, not a government decision. We will update this page as soon as a law or decision is issued.

What will the VAT rate be in Qatar?

The GCC Common VAT Agreement sets the standard rate at 5%, the rate the UAE started with. Today: Saudi 15%, UAE 5%, Oman 5%, Bahrain 10%.

Do I pay VAT if I buy from abroad while living in Qatar?

A shop in a country that applies VAT usually charges it only on domestic sales. Exports to another country are usually zero-rated, and you may pay customs duty when the parcel arrives.

Sources

Last checked: 9 October 2026.

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