DOHA, Sep 11: Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has temporarily suspended the operations of the food delivery platform Talabat for one week.
In a statement shared on X, the ministry cited “repeated violations and multiple substantiated complaints” against the company as the reason for the closure. Talabat’s services went offline early Wednesday, with users unable to access the platform via its app.
The ministry said the violations involved displaying and advertising products with misleading or false information. Under Articles 7 and 11 of Law No. 8 of 2008 on Consumer Protection, suppliers are prohibited from deceptively presenting goods or services. Article 7 forbids any supplier from offering false or misleading descriptions, while Article 11 obliges them to provide refunds or correctly deliver services when guarantees are not met.
According to reports shared on Reddit, some consumers had submitted screenshots of allegedly misleading offers, prompting direct follow-ups from the ministry. “These practices constitute an infringement of consumer rights and breach applicable laws and regulations in Qatar,” the ministry emphasized in its announcement.
Responding to the suspension, Talabat Holding plc confirmed the one-week administrative closure, effective immediately. Khaled Al Fakesh, the company’s Chief Finance Officer, stated that Talabat is working closely with authorities to address their concerns and resolve the matter swiftly. An internal review is also underway to evaluate the situation and any potential financial impact.
“Talabat is taking steps to minimise disruption for its customers, partners, and delivery riders and will provide updates as the situation develops,” the statement added. Reports Doha News
Founded in Kuwait in 2004, Talabat is a leading food delivery platform across the region and the market leader in Qatar.
