The General Tax Authority was awarded first place in the second edition of the “Government Services Redesign Challenge 2026,” organized by the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau with the participation of several government entities, for its Excise Tax Product Registration service. The provision of this service comes as part of the comprehensive development and transformation plan that the authority is working to achieve, which it continues to advance through the ongoing enhancement of services, simplification of procedures, and strengthening of digitalization. These efforts contribute to improving the taxpayer experience and raising the efficiency of the services provided to them. The service met the approved excellence standards for the design and development of government services by presenting an integrated model focused on improving the clarity and ease of the process for registering products subject to excise tax, reflecting the Authority’s direction toward more efficient and innovative services. This achievement followed the participation of the Authority’s team in the innovation event accompanying the challenge, which included intensive interactive workshops focused on understanding the current state of the service, exploring related challenges, envisioning future solutions, and developing applicable prototypes to be presented before the judging panel. The challenge phases were carried out through a collaborative approach that began with identifying challenges and development opportunities, followed by idea generation and solution design, and concluded with the presentation of an enhanced model that reflects a smoother and more efficient user experience. The Authority’s presentation was distinguished by its clarity and comprehensive approach in addressing challenges and solutions, while highlighting the impact of service development on improving the taxpayer experience and enhancing procedural efficiency. This recognition reflects the General Tax Authority’s commitment to continuing the development of its digital services, promoting innovation in the design of government services, and adopting practical solutions that contribute to raising the quality of services provided to taxpayers and enhancing the efficiency of the tax system.

The General Tax Authority (GTA) organised a workshop for companies titled “Implementation of Excise Tax under the Tiered Volumetric Model”, as part of a series of awareness workshops conducted in preparation for the implementation of Excise Tax on Sweetened Drinks, effective 6 July 2026. The workshop forms part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance tax awareness and improve companies’ readiness by introducing the relevant requirements and procedures, while clarifying compliance mechanisms under the applicable tax regulations. The workshop covered the key components of the Tiered Volumetric Model for Sweetened Drinks, including the Excise Tax implementation mechanism, procedures for registering companies and taxable goods, entities obligated to pay the tax, product registration requirements and the data needed to complete the registration process, as well as the transitional provisions associated with the implementation of the new system. The workshop also featured an interactive discussion session during which participants’ questions were addressed, and various regulatory and practical aspects of Excise Tax implementation were discussed, contributing to greater awareness of regulatory requirements and tax compliance mechanisms. This workshop is part of a broader series of awareness initiatives organised by the General Tax Authority to increase understanding of tax regulations and familiarise companies with the implementation mechanism for Excise Tax on Sweetened Drinks, thereby supporting tax compliance and promoting transparency and clarity among taxpayers.

The General Tax Authority (GTA) has announced the launch of the nationally recognised Certified Tax Specialist Programme, aimed at developing national competencies and strengthening the capabilities of tax professionals, thereby supporting the advancement and transformation of Qatar’s tax sector. The programme is designed to enhance technical expertise in key areas, including income tax, value-added tax and excise tax, in line with internationally recognised standards and best practices. Delivered through intensive in-person sessions, the programme combines technical knowledge with practical application. It concludes with a proctored electronic examination to assess participants’ competencies and acquired knowledge. The curriculum covers a range of specialised topics, including tax fundamentals, tax compliance frameworks, global tax developments, tax reporting and transfer pricing, alongside practical applications relevant to professional practice. The programme is internationally accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), enhancing the credibility of the certification and confirming its alignment with global professional standards. It also contributes to improving the capabilities and competitiveness of national talent within the tax sector. The Tax Certification Programme forms part of the General Tax Authority’s ongoing efforts to develop national competencies and support the long-term sustainability of Qatar’s tax sector. It aligns with the Authority’s agenda to enhance professional skills, strengthen institutional knowledge and adopt global best practices, contributing to the development of a flexible and highly efficient tax system. The programme also supports the qualification and certification of specialised professionals to provide tax services and consultancy in accordance with the regulations and instructions of the General Tax Authority, thereby enhancing transparency and efficiency across the tax sector. The programme will be introduced gradually, beginning with employees of the General Tax Authority, followed by tax professionals. Coordination will also take place with local training centres to enhance tax knowledge and awareness among specialists and relevant entities.

As part of the Emerging Leaders Development Program, the General Tax Authority organized an interactive session titled “The Inspiring Leader” to strengthen internal engagement and foster the exchange of leadership insights and experiences with the next generation of emerging leaders. The session featured H.E. Mr. Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Jaham Al-Kuwari, President of the General Tax Authority, who shared key insights from his leadership journey and professional experience with attendees. He also highlighted his perspective on the importance of developing institutional capabilities and investing in national talent. The discussion included a series of questions about his career path, along with reflections on the leadership lessons and real-world experiences that shaped significant milestones throughout his journey. The session provided participants with a valuable opportunity to benefit from his expertise and experiences, contributing to the development and empowerment of future leaders. The event also featured an open discussion and exchange of ideas with a group of General Tax Authority employees on leadership principles, workplace challenges, the importance of continuous development, and building national capabilities. This engagement reflects the Authority’s commitment to investing in national talent, fostering a culture of inspirational leadership, and empowering employees to acquire the knowledge and experience needed to support their professional growth and contribute to achieving the Authority’s future objectives.

As part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships with stakeholders and advancing tax knowledge, the General Tax Authority (GTA) organized a series of specialized workshops for audit firms aimed at enhancing technical and practical competencies and promoting compliance with relevant best practices and standards. The workshops were held at the Authority’s headquarters and brought together more than 50 auditors and representatives from various audit firms. Through a range of interactive sessions, participants were introduced to the latest legislative and procedural developments in the tax field. The workshops combined theoretical and practical aspects to support professional capacity building, strengthen the practical understanding of tax regulations, contribute to the alignment of professional interpretations, and achieve higher levels of compliance and consistency in implementation. These workshops reflect the Authority’s commitment to fostering continuous cooperation and partnership with audit firms, thereby supporting tax compliance and enhancing the quality of professional practices. The workshops also form part of an integrated plan developed by the Authority to unify relevant technical concepts and applications, strengthen adherence to approved regulations and procedures, enrich specialized knowledge, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and keep pace with developments and emerging trends in the tax environment.

Within the framework of enhancing financial transparency and promoting joint investment, the State of Qatar and the Republic of Austria signed an amendment to certain provisions of the agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and capital. The agreement was signed on behalf of the State of Qatar by H.E. Mr. Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Jaham Al-Kuwari, President of the General Tax Authority, while H.E. Ms. Erika Bernhard, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the State of Qatar, signed on behalf of Austria. The amendment comes as part of updating the agreement in line with the latest international tax standards, enhancing transparency and keeping pace with global economic developments. Key changes include the redrafting of Article 8 on international maritime and air transport, the revision of Article 10 on dividends to clarify the scope of eligible government entities, and the enhancement of Article 27 on the exchange of information for tax purposes, in line with international transparency and cooperation requirements. The signing of these amendments affirms the State of Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its tax system in line with global best practices and to deepening its economic partnerships with friendly countries, contributing to increased trade flows and opening broader opportunities for joint investment.

The General Tax Authority and Edaa announced the signing of an electronic linkage agreement, in a strategic step aimed at enhancing data exchange systems and improving the efficiency of tax operations, in line with Qatar’s digital transformation agenda and reinforcing principles of transparency and compliance. The agreement was signed on behalf the Authority by H.E. Mr. Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Jaham Al-Kuwari, President of the General Tax Authority, and on behalf of Edaa by H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani, Chief Executive Officer of Edaa. This linkage represents a significant advancement in automating data exchange between the two entities, reducing reliance on manual processes and replacing them with automated electronic channels that accelerate the flow of information and minimize human error associated with manual data entry, while ensuring access to accurate and up-to-date data in real time. It also supports the development of comprehensive analytical reports based on direct-source data and strengthens compliance with regulatory requirements, in accordance with best local and international standards in tax transparency and information exchange. This step is expected to enhance the efficiency of services provided to beneficiaries by reducing administrative burdens and expediting procedures, reflecting the Authority’s commitment to developing an advanced tax environment that supports economic growth and aligns with Qatar’s vision for digital transformation. The General Tax Authority and Edaa affirmed that this agreement represents a significant collaboration toward building an integrated digital tax ecosystem, strengthening joint cooperation and partnership among relevant entities, contributing to enhanced trust and supporting the efficiency of the financial sector in the State.

The General Tax Authority has announced an extension of the deadline for submitting the tax return for the 2025 tax year until 30 June 2026. This step aims to support taxpayers and enhance tax compliance by providing additional time to fulfill their obligations. The Authority calls on all companies and entities holding a commercial registration, trade license, or home license – including tax-exempt entities – that have not yet submitted their tax returns to do so within the specified period via the Dhareeba Tax Portal, in order to avoid penalties and ensure business continuity. This extension applies to all entities and individuals subject to the provisions of the Income Tax Law No. (24) of 2018 and its amendments, including tax-exempt companies, companies owned by Qatari or GCC nationals residing in the State, as well as private associations and institutions, including charitable and public benefit organizations established in accordance with applicable regulations. However, it does not apply to companies operating in the petroleum and petrochemical sectors, which are required to submit their tax returns no later than 30 April 2026. The Authority also provides multiple support channels, including the call center at (16565) and email (support@dhareeba.qa) to facilitate the submission of tax returns and respond to taxpayers’ inquiries, ensuring compliance with the specified deadlines. The decision to extend the deadline for filing tax returns reflects the Authority’s commitment to empowering taxpayers and simplifying procedures, contributing to a more enabling business environment.

His Excellency Mr. Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Jaham Al-Kuwari, President of the General Tax Authority, chaired the State of Qatar’s delegation at the 16th meeting of the Committee of Heads and Directors of Tax Administrations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), held today in the presiding country, the Kingdom of Bahrain, via video conferencing. The meeting discussed key developments and challenges related to tax policies and procedures in the region. The heads of tax authorities in member states explored ways to enhance cooperation and coordination in the exchange of expertise and best tax practices. They also reviewed updates on the implementation of unified agreements related to indirect taxes, as well as mechanisms to develop technical systems that support electronic connectivity among GCC tax authorities. The meeting further addressed topics related to updating tax legislation and expanding training and capacity-building for national cadres, with the aim of improving performance and increasing the efficiency of implementing tax systems in line with regional and global economic developments. At the conclusion of the meeting, it was emphasized that GCC countries remain committed to continuing joint coordination, strengthening economic integration, and reinforcing the principles of fairness and transparency in tax policies, in support of sustainable development across the Gulf region.

As part of the State of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to enhance its tax policies and support public health, Law No. (2) of 2026 has been issued, amending certain provisions of Law No. (25) of 2018 on Excise Tax. The amendment introduces a new mechanism for excise tax on sweetened drinks based on a tiered volume model, where the tax is calculated according to the amount of sugar or sweeteners in the drink or taxable product. The schedule of excise goods subject to tax has also been updated to include sugar-sweetened drinks such as soft drinks and juices with added sugar. The scope further extends to all products that can be converted into drinks and contain sugar or sweeteners, including concentrates, powders, extracts, and other similar products. The General Tax Authority stated that the law will come into effect on 6 July 2026, allowing sufficient time for taxpayers and manufacturers to align their operations accordingly. It also emphasized the requirement for anyone holding excise goods to submit tax declarations disclosing stock levels at the time the law takes effect through the Dhareeba Tax Portal. This initiative reflects the State’s efforts to reduce the consumption of high-sugar products and encourage manufacturers to lower sugar content in their products, contributing to improved public health. It also aligns with the country’s strategic direction to enhance the efficiency of the tax system in line with international best practices, while maintaining a balanced approach between economic and health objectives.