The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) issued the Cloud Computing Handbook for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which is part of its regulatory instruments that were developed to create a safe cloud environment and to facilitate large-scale adoption of cloud computing by SMEs based on their requirements and objectives and in line with the digital development of Qatar.

Cloud computing offers many opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises, as it enables them to automate their procedures and provide high-quality services at lower costs. Cloud computing saves large amounts of capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operating expenses (OPEX) compared to the costs of traditional solutions. Thus, it contributes to enhancing their growth by improving productivity, flexibility, security, and overall operational efficiency.

The Handbook provides a simplified explanation to Small and Medium Enterprises about what cloud computing is, the meaning of typical cloud contractual provisions, categories of cloud services, and key points that Small and Medium Enterprises should pay close attention to before subscribing to such services. The Handbook also includes an annex on data classification guidelines that will help SMEs classify their data in their transition to the cloud.

The State of Qatar has placed the development of cloud computing at the heart of its digital transformation strategy. Cloud computing contributes to establishing Qatar as a leading regional digital hub, a home to international digital players, and an attractive destination for domestic and foreign investments in innovative digital services.

CRA recently issued the Cloud Policy Framework, which provides trusted access principles for all stakeholders in the cloud value chain and defines a comprehensive set of policy and regulatory recommendations to stakeholders from the public and private sectors that are aligned with international laws and best practices.

Source: Communication Regulatory Authority