Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has issued a new policy and regulatory framework to enhance consumer rights and ensure service providers’ commitments in the telecommunications sector.
This move is part of an update to the legal and regulatory framework following the country’s current telecommunications law.
The CRA clarified that this regulation represents a significant milestone in consumer protection efforts, as it includes a set of rules and procedures that service providers must adhere to. The policy outlines key goals and principles to enhance consumer rights, especially in light of rapid technological advancements.
Notably, the new policy replaces the Consumer Protection Policy for Telecommunications Services issued in January 2014. All previous consumer-related regulatory tools issued by the CRA or the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (formerly ICT Qatar) will be cancelled after the transition period specified in the Consumer Protection Regulatory Framework ends.
These tools include the Advertising, Marketing, and Branding Law issued on September 25, 2014, the CRA Chairman’s Decision No. 11 of 2016 on issuing the Unsolicited Messages Regulatory Framework, and the CRA Chairman’s Decision No. 12 of 2016 concerning value-added services.
In a statement to Qatar News Agency, Ms. Amal Salem Al-Hanawi, Director of Consumer Affairs, confirmed that this regulation reflects the Authority’s commitment to creating a telecommunications environment characterized by transparency and fairness. She pointed out that the efforts aim to ensure consumers receive accurate information and fair contracts, thereby enhancing their confidence in telecommunications services.
The new framework addresses vital aspects, including advertising standards, marketing practices, bill transparency, contract fairness, and personal data protection. It also includes provisions to address common concerns such as unwanted marketing and spam messages and outlines clear procedures for handling consumer complaints and disputes.
The CRA affirmed that these measures reflect its proactive approach to protecting consumer rights and promoting a competitive telecommunications market that prioritises consumers, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
