Qatar law makes it mandatory for shop owners to accept bank cards and maintain a POS (Point-of-Sale) system for electronic payments, enforced by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI). Outlets failing to provide e-payment options may face temporary closure until they comply with the regulation.
Relevant Law and References
- Ministerial Decision No. 70 of 2022: This decision amended previous provisions (Ministerial Decision No. 161 of 2017), explicitly requiring all commercial, industrial, and general outlets to offer at least one electronic payment service to customers. Acceptable options include a bank card (credit or debit), bank payment wallet, or QR code payment.
- No Additional Charges: Retailers cannot add extra charges for card payments—payment by card must be processed at the stated sales price, as part of consumer protection laws in Qatar.
- Enforcement: Shops found in violation are subject to administrative closure by MoCI for up to 14 days or until they meet the requirements.
Official Statement and Penalties
- Shops must offer electronic payment (POS/bank card/wallet/QR).
- Violation leads to closure or renewal of administrative action by MoCI. (Ref: Peninsula Qatar)
- Decision No. 70 of 2022 and circular updates form the basis of these rules.
Owners should contact their business bank or a POS provider to set up the system, as referenced by local business guides.
Regular inspections are conducted to ensure compliance.
If you find any shop not accepting digital payments, please report to MoCI.
