All you need to know about purchasing alcohol in Qatar
Alcohol in Qatar is solely distributed by the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). However, the purchase of alcohol requires a number of conditions and criteria to be met. Alcohol is only sold to non-Muslim expats with a permit and in licensed establishments, all purchase is subject to available appointment times and 100 percent tax.
Qatar has imposed a 100 percent tax on alcohol sold at the QDC. According to the general tax authority, the country has imposed tax on the following:
- Tobacco products – 100% tax rate
- Carbonated drinks (non-flavoured aerated water excluded) – 50% tax rate
- Energy drinks – 100% tax rate
- Special goods – 100% tax rate
Alcohol purchase requirements
- All non-GCC citizens possessing a valid Qatar Resident Permit (RP).
- The applicant is over the age of 21.
- The applicant is earning a basic salary excluding ALL allowances of at least QAR 3000 per month.
- Under special circumstances, some non-RP/non-Qatar ID applicants on multi-entry visas may apply.
Applicants working in Qatar on a multi-entry visa or other business visas may apply if they meet the following criteria:
- Resident in Qatar for a minimum of 3 months.
- Residing in private accommodation whilst resident in Qatar. Applicants living in hotels are not eligible.
- In support of the application, the above details are confirmed in writing by an employer or sponsors based in Qatar.
Appointment
Permit holders are required to take an appointment prior to visiting QDC to purchase alcohol, in some cases, the wait time can be up to one week.
Another method of purchase is ‘Click & Order’, wherein permit holders will have to place an order online and collect in-store at the allotted collection date and time. If the collection time is missed, the order will be cancelled and a new order has to be placed with a new collection date & time.
Steps to apply for a permit
- Obtain a letter from your employer addressed to QDC or ‘To Whom It May Concern’ with your name, position and a breakdown of monthly salary showing basic and any allowances applicable. The accommodation entitlement must be shown either as free housing provided by the employer or as a monthly allowance.
- The letter must be signed by an authorized signatory and stamped by the company.
- The letter must be in English dated within the last 3 months on the original company letterhead.
- You must show your original Qatar Resident Permit identity card. QID validity should be more than 2 months.
- You must complete a QDC application form.
Fees
The annual fee for the permit increases year-on-year, the first year at QAR150 for a one year validity, QAR250 for the second year, QAR350 for the third year and QAR450 for the fourth year.
Rules
- Alcohol purchased must be taken directly to the permit holders’ place of residence and be concealed during transit.
- It is strictly forbidden to give alcohol to others whether by sale or gift.
- No guests, spouses without joint cards or children of any age will be allowed to enter the retail store.
- The Permit holder and goods must be in the same vehicle.
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