The new area, located right next to Hamad Port and just 20 minutes from downtown Doha, is designed to be a fully integrated marine ecosystem able to support a wide range of marine business

Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) has announced the launch of a new port and marine cluster, called ‘Marsa’, at the heart of Umm Alhoul Free Zone. The new area, located right next to Hamad Port and just 20 minutes from downtown Doha, is designed to be a fully integrated marine ecosystem able to support a wide range of marine business.

Marsa has a 1.6km long, 500m wide draught and a total of 3km of quay wall, allowing it to service ships up to 70m long. Applications for real estate in the cluster are now open, and key expected activities include but are not limited to shipbuilding and repair, internal design and fit-out, boat brokerage and maritime research.

“QFZA is proud to play a role in the exciting developments happening in Qatar’s maritime industry, and we hope to continue to support the growth of this centuries-old sector,” said Fahad Zainal, chief corporate support officer, speaking at the opening of the Qatar International Boat Show in Doha.

The authority will participate in the boat show this week, where representatives from QFZA will be available to discuss opportunities at Marsa and the application process. Potential applicants can also visit QFZA’s website for more information at https://fza.gov.qa/, or contact a member of the business development team at [email protected].

An authority that develops and oversees world-class free zones in Qatar, QFZA recently signed three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with leading entities in China to “fuel further growth” within the free zone development and wider Qatari economy.

An MoU was signed with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) in the presence of the leadership of the two countries among other agreements signed between the two sides.

The MoU will facilitate co-operation through information exchange mechanisms and building a business-to-business consultation platform.

Additionally, the partnership will “focus on implementing exchanges to assist business communities in better understanding relevant regulations that govern” business activities in Qatar or China.

Qatar Free Zones Authority was established last year to oversee and regulate world-class free zones in Qatar.

QFZA offers outstanding opportunities and benefits for businesses seeking to establish operations in Qatar, providing quality infrastructure, a skilled workforce, 100% foreign ownership, access to investment funds, payment exemptions and partnership opportunities with Qatari entities.

Qatar Free Zones Authority oversees the Airport Free Zones at Ras Bufontas and the Port Free Zone at Um Alhoul, strategically placed near Qatar’s world class airport and port to allow companies to take advantage of Qatar’s global connectivity.

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