The service is available on both iPhone and Android devices under the name MEC_QATAR. The service enables investors to establish companies online at any time or from anywhere in the world.

The new service, MEC said, is part of a number of smart-phone applications provided by the ministry in order to improve business processes in Qatar as well as streamline and speed-up business incorporation procedures thereby promoting Qatar's business and investment environment. With a series of simple steps, investors are able to complete the process of establishing their company through the mobile phone application.

Applicants should begin by selecting the company type according to their personal preference. This step should be followed by clicking on the general services box.

Applicants should then access investor services, followed by incorporation services (after reserving a trade name) then select the type of company that is to be initiated; whether it is a limited liability company comprising one owner or more (LLC) and should then register as a single company.

Following these steps, the applicant must enter the trade name that was previously selected, determine and enter the duration of the company in years, identify the owners, their responsibilities, and their level of control, basic company data, and company activity and finally upload the required documents.

Applicants can then review a summary of their application before it is submitted. The Ministry of Economy and Commerce will then send a text message notifying applicants that their request is currently under process. Ministry employees will review the applicaton and notify applicants should there be a need for any additional information.

Subsequent to approval, a text message will be sent, requesting that the investor pay a visit to any of the ministry branches in Qatar in order to attest the articles of incorporation as well as issue the commercial registration. Investors will be able to commence and open their business following one visit.

Launched mid-last year, the mobile app is one of the most important and innovate initiatives implemented by The Ministry of Economy and Commerce, in accordance with the highest international standards.

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has launched a "selection of smart electronic services", representing a "quantum leap forward" with respect to the means of communication between the ministry and the public; whether they are consumers, investors or simply those interested in economic affairs.

Users are able to access a basket of unique electronic services; for instance issuing and renewing commercial licenses and records, accessing commercial company records, searching for commercial names, accessing company details as well as certificates of non-ownership; in addition to a variety of administrative services that enable entrepreneurs to manage their businesses easily and conveniently.

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce was recently awarded the 'Best Mobile-Government Service Award' across the Arab world in the economy and trade sector category in recognition of its mobile app on iPhone and android.

This distinction was garnered during the 4th edition of the World Government Summit that was held in Dubai, UAE and is a reflection of the ministry's efforts in developing Qatar's business sector, in line with its vision to build a diversified and a unique business environment that is attractive to investors.

 Gulf times

How to use the App (video guide in Arabic)