Common Mistakes When Buying Real Estate in Qatar

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Qatar’s real estate market offers numerous attractive investment opportunities, but it also carries risks for uninformed buyers. Here is a comprehensive guide to common mistakes to avoid when considering purchasing property in this rapidly developing Gulf country.

Not Knowing Foreign Ownership Restrictions

One of the first mistakes to avoid is failing to research the specific rules regarding foreign property ownership in Qatar. Unlike other Gulf countries, Qatar allows non-citizens to purchase real estate, but with certain important restrictions to be aware of:

• Foreigners can only purchase in designated areas, mainly in and around Doha
• Purchases are limited to apartments or villas in specific residential complexes
• Prior government approval is required
• Quotas limit the number of properties foreigners can own

It is crucial to fully understand these rules before proceeding with a purchase, otherwise your transaction may be blocked or canceled.

Underestimating Location Importance

A common mistake is not giving enough importance to the location of the desired property. In Qatar, location is a key factor that will significantly influence the value and rental potential of your investment.

Some buyers are attracted by appealing prices in developing areas without considering potential drawbacks:

• Lack of infrastructure and nearby services
• Noise disturbances from surrounding construction sites
• Long commute times to the city center
• Risk of depreciation if the neighborhood doesn’t develop as expected

Prioritize established, well-served areas even if prices are higher. Your investment will be safer and more profitable in the long term.

Neglecting Property Technical Inspection

In the excitement of finding the ideal property, many buyers make the mistake of not conducting a thorough technical inspection before purchase. This is a crucial step, especially for older or under-construction properties.

A professional inspection allows you to:

• Detect potential hidden defects or structural problems
• Assess the quality of finishes and materials used
• Verify compliance with local construction standards
• Estimate necessary renovation or compliance costs

Don’t skip this inspection—it could save you from unpleasant surprises and unexpected expenses after purchase.

Rushing Without Studying the Market

The excitement of becoming a property owner in Qatar sometimes pushes buyers to rush without taking the time to thoroughly study the local real estate market. This is a mistake that can be costly.

Take the time to:

• Compare prices per square meter in different neighborhoods
• Analyze market trends over recent years
• Research future development projects that could impact property values
• Evaluate the rental potential of the area if considering a rental investment

A good understanding of the market will help you spot good opportunities and avoid overpaying for your property.

Underestimating Additional Costs

A common mistake is considering only the purchase price of the property without accounting for all additional fees that can significantly increase the final bill. In Qatar, these costs can represent up to 7-8% of the purchase price.

Among the main fees to anticipate:

• Registration fees (2.5% of purchase price)
• Legal fees (1-2%)
• Real estate agency fees (2-3%)
• Bank transfer fees for foreign buyers
• Furnishing costs for a new property

Include all these fees in your overall budget to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure you can finalize your purchase.

Neglecting Legal Aspects

Qatar’s legal system, based on Sharia and civil law, can be complex for foreigners. Neglecting the legal aspects of the transaction is a mistake that can have serious consequences.

Important legal points not to overlook:

• Verification of property title and absence of liens
• Drafting and review of the sales contract
• Obtaining necessary approvals for foreign buyers
• Understanding rights and obligations related to co-ownership

It is imperative to be assisted by a lawyer specializing in Qatari real estate law to secure your transaction.

Ignoring Local Cultural Specificities

Qatar is a conservative Muslim country with cultural and social norms that may differ greatly from Western countries. Ignoring these specificities can lead to misunderstandings or judgment errors during property purchase.

Cultural aspects to consider:

• Importance of separation between male and female spaces in house layout
• Preference for large reception areas to host extended family
• Sensitivity to issues of visibility and privacy
• Importance of room orientation relative to Mecca

Take these cultural aspects into account in your property choice, especially if you plan to resell to local buyers in the future.

Not Anticipating Maintenance Costs

Qatar’s extreme climate, with its scorching summers and salty air, can put buildings under strain. Not anticipating maintenance costs is a common mistake that can burden your long-term budget.

Points to consider:

• High air conditioning costs during summer months
• Need for regular maintenance of air conditioning systems
• Risk of accelerated corrosion of materials exposed to sea air
• Potentially high homeowners’ association fees in luxury complexes

Include these recurring costs in your financial plan to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure the longevity of your investment.

Underestimating Timing Importance

The Qatari real estate market can be cyclical, influenced by factors such as oil price fluctuations, major events (like the 2022 World Cup), or government policies. Not considering the timing of your purchase can be a costly mistake.

Factors to consider:

• Economic cycles and their impact on real estate prices
• Future development projects that could affect property values
• Potential legislative changes regarding foreign ownership
• Seasonality of rental demand if targeting a rental investment

Take the time to analyze market trends and don’t hesitate to consult local experts to determine the best time for your purchase.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll maximize your chances of making a successful real estate investment in Qatar. Remember that the key to a successful purchase lies in careful preparation, thorough due diligence, and working with experienced professionals.