As part of regulating commercial activities in the State of Qatar, Minister of Commerce and Industry Decision No. (25) of 2026 has been issued, establishing the conditions and controls governing the conduct of commercial activities through electronic platforms that do not require a physical premises.

The Decision provides that no commercial activity may be conducted through electronic platforms without first obtaining an e-commerce licence (Article 2). The applicant must be registered in the Commercial Register, must specify the commercial activity to be carried out, obtain all necessary licences and approvals, and identify the electronic platform through which the activity will be conducted (Article 3).

The Decision further requires obtaining a separate licence for each electronic platform where the activity is conducted through more than one website.

In addition, the Decision imposes several obligations on licence holders, including conducting the activity exclusively through the platform specified in the licence, obtaining approval from the competent authority for any amendments to the licensed details, and providing electronic payment services to consumers. It also requires the clear display of essential information on the website, including Commercial Register details, contact information, exchange and return policies, consumer protection measures, and complaint handling mechanisms (Article 5).

The provisions of this Decision do not apply to transactions conducted via electronic platforms involving goods and services intended for personal use, provided that such transactions are not carried out in commercial quantities.

This Decision comes as part of efforts to strengthen the regulatory framework governing e-commerce in Qatar, striking a balance between enabling digital commercial activities and ensuring consumer protection and transparency. It also reflects the legislator’s approach toward subjecting such activities to clear legal oversight, thereby enhancing confidence in electronic transactions and supporting the orderly development of the digital marketplace.

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