Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has expanded its digital services to make business setup and operations easier.
The ministry has launched new digital tools across licensing, market research and business services. The changes aim to improve access to information and reduce the time needed to complete procedures.
Qatar launches online e-commerce licence
A key change is the new E-Commerce Licence. MoCI introduced the licence under Decision No. 25 of 2026, issued by Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani.
The licence allows businesses to establish and operate e-commerce activities online. It applies to the website used for the commercial activity in Qatar.
The licence covers 194 approved business activities. It costs QR500 to issue.
Entrepreneurs can submit their applications online. As a result, digital businesses can complete more of the setup process without relying on in-person procedures.
The move also gives new businesses a more flexible route into Qatar’s market.
Qatar Business Map gets new investor tools
MoCI has also upgraded the Qatar Business Map.
The platform provides research and analysis tools for investors and entrepreneurs. Users can explore commercial activities and existing establishments across Qatar.
They can also access market data and indicators. In addition, the platform shows how business activities are distributed across different areas.
This can help investors assess potential locations before setting up a project. It also supports market research and the identification of business opportunities.
For companies planning expansion, access to location and market data can make early-stage decisions more informed.
MoCI upgrades website and mobile app
The ministry has launched an updated version of its official website as part of the wider digital push.
The new website has a redesigned interface and a more organised structure. It aims to make information and services easier for businesses, investors and consumers to find.
MoCI has also enhanced its mobile application.
One new service allows business owners, auditors and company representatives to issue eight commonly used certificates and extracts through the app.
Users can select the required certificate, complete payment and receive a digital receipt through the service.
The app also includes a comprehensive renewal service. Users can review information, complete requirements, submit applications, track progress and make payments digitally.
Digital services extend across the investor journey
MoCI’s latest changes build on several digital initiatives introduced during 2026.
These include a company regulatory report that provides general regulatory indicators on companies. The report is intended to support business decisions and provide greater transparency in commercial transactions.
The ministry has also launched the Business Guidance and Establishment Office.
Meanwhile, banking services have been integrated into the Single Window Platform. MoCI has also updated its Commercial Activities System to align with the Unified GCC Guide for the Classification of Economic Activities.
Another initiative is the AI Agents Factory, launched in collaboration with Microsoft. The initiative focuses on developing solutions that can improve service efficiency and the beneficiary experience.
Qatar links digitalisation to private-sector growth
Together, these services cover several stages of setting up and running a business.
Investors can use digital tools to research opportunities, establish companies and complete government procedures. They can also manage services and access business information through online channels.
The ministry said its broader aim is to build an integrated digital ecosystem with investors at the centre of service delivery.
The changes also support Qatar’s wider push to strengthen private-sector growth and entrepreneurship.
MoCI said the initiatives are aligned with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. The ministry is continuing to integrate procedures, data and services across its business-facing platforms.
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