Acceptable Use Policy Template for Qatar

An Acceptable Use Policy sets clear rules for how people can use an organization's technology systems, networks, and data. In Qatar, these policies help companies comply with the Cybercrime Law No. 14 of 2014 and protect their digital assets while giving employees and users clear guidelines about permitted activities.

The policy typically covers everything from email usage and internet browsing to data handling and software installations. It outlines specific do's and don'ts, security requirements, and consequences for violations - making it a crucial tool for protecting both the organization and its users while meeting local regulatory requirements under Qatar's Information Technology Laws.

Put an Acceptable Use Policy in place before giving employees access to your organization's technology systems and networks. This is especially important in Qatar where the Cybercrime Law requires businesses to maintain strict control over their digital resources and protect sensitive data.

Use this policy when setting up new offices, onboarding employees, or upgrading IT systems. It's particularly vital for organizations handling sensitive information, operating in regulated sectors, or connecting to Qatar's government networks. Having the policy ready before security incidents occur helps prevent misuse, protects company assets, and demonstrates compliance with local data protection requirements.

• Basic Network Policy: Covers fundamental IT system usage, email rules, and internet access - ideal for small businesses and startups in Qatar
• Comprehensive Enterprise Policy: Detailed guidelines for large organizations, including data classification, cloud services, and BYOD policies
• Industry-Specific Policy: Tailored for sectors like banking or healthcare, incorporating Qatar Central Bank or healthcare data requirements
• Educational Institution Policy: Focused on academic settings, addressing student access, research resources, and educational technology use
• Government Agency Policy: Aligned with Qatar's e-Government requirements, featuring strict security protocols and public service considerations

• IT Managers: Draft and maintain the Acceptable Use Policy, ensuring it aligns with Qatar's cybersecurity requirements and technical capabilities
• Legal Teams: Review and validate policy content for compliance with Qatar's data protection and cybercrime laws
• Department Heads: Help customize policies for specific business units and ensure staff understanding
• Employees: Must read, understand, and follow the policy guidelines when using company systems
• External Contractors: Required to comply with the policy when accessing organizational networks or data
• Compliance Officers: Monitor adherence and handle policy violations in line with Qatari regulations

• System Inventory: List all IT resources, networks, and applications used in your organization
• Legal Requirements: Review Qatar's Cybercrime Law and data protection regulations affecting your sector
• Security Measures: Document current security protocols, access controls, and monitoring systems
• User Categories: Identify different types of users and their specific access needs
• Risk Assessment: Map potential security threats and compliance risks specific to your operations
• Policy Scope: Define which activities and technologies the policy will cover
• Enforcement Plan: Establish clear consequences for policy violations and reporting procedures

• Purpose Statement: Clear explanation of policy objectives and scope under Qatar's IT laws
• Acceptable Uses: Detailed list of permitted activities on company systems and networks
• Prohibited Activities: Specific violations aligned with Qatar's Cybercrime Law requirements
• Data Protection: Guidelines meeting Qatar's data privacy and security standards
• Monitoring Notice: Disclosure of system monitoring and user privacy expectations
• Enforcement Measures: Clear consequences for violations and disciplinary procedures
• User Agreement: Acknowledgment section with user signature and date
• Policy Updates: Process for revisions and user notification requirements

An Acceptable Use Policy differs significantly from a Cybersecurity Policy in both scope and focus. While both address digital security, they serve distinct purposes in Qatar's regulatory framework.

• Focus and Purpose: Acceptable Use Policies outline permitted behaviors when using company systems, while Cybersecurity Policies detail technical security measures and protocols
• User Engagement: Acceptable Use Policies directly guide end-user behavior and require active acknowledgment, whereas Cybersecurity Policies primarily instruct IT teams on security implementation
• Regulatory Compliance: Acceptable Use Policies address daily operational conduct under Qatar's IT laws, while Cybersecurity Policies focus on meeting technical security standards and threat prevention
• Enforcement Approach: Acceptable Use Policies emphasize individual accountability and disciplinary measures, while Cybersecurity Policies concentrate on system-wide protection and incident response