Selling on Instagram in Qatar? Here's What the 2026 E-Commerce Rules Say

Running a small business through Instagram, selling products online or planning to launch a digital store in Qatar? There are licensing requirements you should know about.

Under Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2026, Qatar has introduced specific rules governing commercial activities conducted through websites and electronic platforms, including social media.

The decision was published in the Official Gazette on 15 March 2026 and came into effect on 16 March 2026.

Here's what online sellers need to know.

Do you need a licence to sell on Instagram in Qatar?

The regulation covers commercial activities conducted electronically, including the sale of goods and services through social media platforms.

Businesses conducting activities covered by the decision must obtain an e-commerce licence from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI).

The regulation specifically addresses eligible commercial activities that can be conducted electronically without requiring a physical business location for the activity.

However, this does not mean all types of businesses can operate without additional approvals.

What are the requirements for obtaining an e-commerce licence?

Under Article 3, applicants must meet several requirements:

• Be registered in Qatar's Commercial Register.
• Specify the commercial activity they intend to conduct online.
• Obtain the approvals and licences required for that activity.
• Identify the website or electronic platform through which the business will operate.

In September 2026, MOCI announced the launch of its e-commerce licensing service, covering 194 approved business activities.

The ministry confirmed that the licence issuance fee is QAR 500, with electronic applications available.

Other registration or activity-specific costs may apply.

Do you need separate licences for Instagram and other websites?

Article 4 requires businesses operating through more than one electronic site to obtain a separate e-commerce licence for each site.

The licence must identify the electronic site used for the commercial activity.

Since the decision's definition of electronic sites includes social media, businesses operating across several online channels should confirm their specific licensing requirements with MOCI.

What information must online businesses display?

Under Article 5, licensed online businesses must clearly provide essential information to customers.

This includes their Commercial Registration number, e-commerce licence number, contact details, customer service information, product or service descriptions, and return and exchange policies.

Businesses must also provide information about consumer protection measures and procedures for submitting and resolving complaints.

The regulation additionally requires licensed businesses to provide electronic payment services.

These requirements are intended to improve transparency and accountability in online transactions.

What if you're selling your personal belongings online?

Not every online transaction falls within this decision.

Article 6 excludes transactions involving goods and services for personal use, provided they are not conducted in commercial quantities.

For example, an individual occasionally selling their own used furniture or clothing is different from a business regularly selling products for profit.

However, the decision does not define a specific number of sales that automatically separates personal transactions from commercial activity.

Residents conducting regular sales should confirm whether their activities require registration or licensing.

How can you apply for an e-commerce licence in Qatar?

MOCI has confirmed that applications for its e-commerce licence can be submitted electronically.

Prospective business owners should check the ministry's official digital services to confirm whether their activity is eligible, the required documents and any applicable approvals.

Businesses already operating online should also review whether their current registration and licences cover their electronic sales activities.

For residents looking to start or expand an online business, understanding these requirements is an important step towards operating legally in Qatar.

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