Qatar’s National Digital Authentication and Trust Services Strategy (2024-2026)

The National Digital Authentication and Trust Services Strategy (2024-2026) is a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming Qatar’s digital landscape through reliable digital authentication systems and trust services. It aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the broader National Development Strategy, prioritising digital transformation, economic growth, and innovation.

Key objectives:

1. Driving the digital economy: Developing unified digital authentication and trust services to foster digital transformation and economic diversification.
2. Promoting digital inclusion: Ensuring reliable identification for individuals to access digital services.
3. Enhancing efficiency and security: Simplifying user experience and securing digital transactions.
4. Establishing trust: Increasing adoption of digital services by promoting transparency and security.
5. International recognition: Enabling cross-border trust services to facilitate global trade and cooperation.

Core elements:

Digital authentication:

• A unified platform for identifying and verifying users across public and private sectors.
• Features like mobile digital authentication, eKYC support, and digital signatures aim to simplify user interactions while ensuring privacy and security.
• Governance Model: Clear roles and responsibilities for system oversight, security compliance, and performance monitoring.

Trust services:

• Development of regulatory frameworks for services such as:
  • Digital Signatures and Seals
  • Timestamping
  • Digital Delivery
• Introduction of a Trust Services Pyramid for legal, technical, and operational alignment.
• Creation of a Qatar Trusted List for licensed trust service providers, ensuring compliance and legal acceptance.

Implementation roadmap:

1. Digital authentication initiatives:
   • Building a governance framework and technical system.
   • Integrating service providers to a unified platform.
   • Expanding awareness and user adoption.
2. Trust services initiatives:
   • Phase 1: Establishing governance, regulatory mechanisms, and technical standards.
   • Phase 2: Activating trust services, launching awareness campaigns, and fostering international recognition.

Strategic impact:

• Enhances digital service access across sectors (government, health, finance, education).
• Strengthens cybersecurity and trust in digital transactions.
• Supports innovation, job creation, and economic diversification.
• Facilitates global digital integration and mutual recognition of trust services.

This strategy is a cornerstone for Qatar’s digital transformation, ensuring a secure, unified, and innovative digital ecosystem.