The State of Kuwait has issued Decree-Law No. (10) of 2026, regulating the digital commerce sector, in line with global transformation trends and aimed at achieving a balance between encouraging innovation and ensuring consumer protection, transparency and fairness in transactions.
The decree-law establishes a comprehensive framework regulating digital commerce in Kuwait, aiming to enhance trust in online transactions and ensure a secure, competitive environment. It aligns with existing laws on online transactions, consumer protection, copyright, cybersecurity and competition.
Comprising 45 articles across 10 chapters, the law sets out regulatory, procedural, supervisory and penal provisions governing the sector. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is tasked with oversight and implementation.
The decree-law mandates clear disclosures by online product and service providers and grants consumers the right to correct electronic contracting errors where no correction mechanism exists. Consumers may withdraw from a contract within 14 days of receiving a product, with the right to return or exchange it and obtain a refund without additional cost, subject to specified conditions.
It regulates digital advertising, requiring transparent information on providers, pricing and specifications, and prohibits misleading or unlawful promotions. Providers must comply with Kuwait’s cybersecurity standards, regularly update data protection systems, and use only electronic payment service providers licensed by the Central Bank of Kuwait. Additional fees on electronic payments require prior approval.
The law establishes two committees whose decisions are final and enforceable:
Violations Committee to review and settle breaches
Digital Commerce Dispute Settlement Committee to resolve disputes, impose financial penalties or refer criminal matters to the Public Prosecution.
Penalties include fines, imprisonment, doubled sanctions for repeat offenses, confiscation of tools and proceeds, and closure of violating online stores. The new digital commerce law also holds actual managers of legal entities accountable where involvement is proven and permits reconciliation in certain cases.
Designated Ministry employees are granted judicial authority to detect and document violations. Executive regulations will be published in the Official Gazette and on the Ministry’s website. The law takes effect six months after publication.
