To address the rapid growth of digital commerce, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2026 on the Conditions and Controls for Conducting Commercial Activities through Electronic Websites that Do Not Require a Physical Premises for Their Operation.
The Decision establishes a clear regulatory framework for businesses conducting commercial activities online. It defines e-commerce broadly as the sale and purchase of goods or the provision of services through websites, including electronic platforms and social media channels. Under the decision, no person or company may conduct a commercial activity online without first obtaining an E-Commerce License from the Ministry and paying the prescribed fees.
To obtain the license, the applicant must already be registered in the Commercial Register, identify the specific activity to be conducted online, obtain any required approvals relating to that activity, and specify the website or platform through which the business will operate. Businesses using multiple websites may be required to obtain a separate E-Commerce License for each platform.
The Decision also imposes several compliance obligations on license holders. Businesses must clearly display their Commercial Registration number and E-Commerce License details, contact information, customer service channels, product and service information, return and exchange policies, and consumer complaint procedures. In addition, electronic payment methods must be made available to consumers, and any changes to the licensed website or business details must be approved by the Ministry.
These requirements reflect Qatar’s continued efforts to strengthen consumer protection, increase transparency in online transactions, and regulate the growing digital economy. While the Decision excludes personal transactions involving goods or services for non-commercial use, businesses engaging in online commercial activities should carefully assess whether they fall within its scope and ensure compliance with the licensing requirements.
At Al Ansari & Associates, we assist businesses with obtaining E-Commerce Licenses, assessing regulatory requirements, and ensuring compliance with Qatar’s evolving e-commerce framework. Our team helps clients establish and operate online businesses in a manner that is both legally compliant and commercially effective.