How to Get a Liquor Permit in Qatar

Qatar liquor permit

If you're a non-Qatari resident living in Qatar, you can legally purchase alcohol through the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC) — the country's sole authorised importer, distributor, and retailer of alcoholic beverages and speciality foods. To do so, you'll need to obtain a QDC liquor permit. Here's everything you need to know.

Who is QDC?

The Qatar Distribution Company is the only legal channel for purchasing alcohol in Qatar. It manages liquor permit issuance for individuals and also handles licensing for hotels, clubs, and restaurants. All applications are processed through QDC's official platform at www.qdc.com.qa.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for a QDC liquor permit, you must meet all of the following conditions:

Nationality
Non-GCC citizens only

Minimum age
21 years or above

Minimum salary
QAR 3,000 / month

Qatar ID validity
More than 2 months remaining

Applicants without a Qatar ID may still apply if they hold a multiple-entry or business visa, have lived in Qatar for at least 3 months, reside in private accommodation (not a hotel), and have written confirmation from a Qatar-based employer or sponsor.

Documents required

1.  NOC letter from your employer

Written in English on original letterhead, dated within the last 3 months, signed and stamped. Must state your full name, job title, basic salary, accommodation entitlement, and marital status. Addressed to "Qatar Distribution Company".

2. Qatar ID (QID)

Must have more than 2 months of validity remaining at the time of application.

3. QDC application form

Sent to your email after booking your appointment, or downloadable from the QDC website. Must be printed and completed before your visit.

4. Bank card for permit fee

Cash is not accepted. Bring a debit or credit card to pay the permit fee at the QDC store.

In some cases, QDC may also ask for supporting documents such as recent bank statements, an employment contract, or a company CR copy to verify your salary and allowances.

How to apply — step by step

1. Visit the QDC website
Go to www.qdc.com.qa to begin the application process.

2. Select "New Permit"
Click Next to proceed to the registration form.

3. Fill in your details
Enter your personal information, complete the captcha, and click Next.

4. Verify via OTP
Enter the one-time password sent to your registered email address and click Verify.

5. Book your appointment
Select your preferred date and time slot at a QDC location.

6. Complete the application form
The form will be emailed to you. Print it, fill it out, and also print your appointment confirmation.

7. Visit the QDC store
Bring all required documents on your appointment date.

8. Pay the fee and collect your card
Use a bank card to pay — cash is not accepted. Your QDC permit card will be issued on the spot.

Permit fees & validity

The permit is valid up to the expiry date of your Qatar ID. Fees are non-refundable if the membership is cancelled or terminated.