Cookie Policy

Purpose

This Cookie Policy explains how Qatar Development Bank (QDB) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on its websites, mobile applications, and online services. It ensures transparency and compliance with Qatar’s Personal Data Privacy Protection Law (PDPL – Law No. 13 of 2016), National Data Privacy Office (NDPO) guidance, and relevant QCB and NCSA standards.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your computer or device when you visit QDB websites. They help the Bank recognize your device, remember your preferences, and enhance user experience. Data such as IP address, session activity, and language preferences may be collected.

Types of Cookies Used

QDB uses several categories of cookies:

• Strictly Necessary Cookies – essential for secure operation, authentication, and session management.
• Performance & Analytics Cookies – analyze visitor behavior and improve service performance.
• Functional Cookies – remember user preferences and enhance usability.
• Marketing & Personalization Cookies – provide personalized experiences with user consent.
• Third-Party Cookies – used for analytics, fraud prevention, and cybersecurity, bound by PDPL-compliant agreements.

Legal Basis for Using Cookies

Under Qatar’s PDPL, QDB uses strictly necessary cookies based on legitimate interest and obtains explicit consent for all other categories through its cookie consent banner.

Managing Cookie Preferences

Users may adjust cookie settings via browser privacy controls or the Cookie Settings Panel available on each QDB webpage. Disabling cookies may affect access to secure features like online banking.

Data Collected via Cookies

Data collected is processed per QDB’s Privacy Policy to ensure lawful, transparent, and secure handling consistent with NCSA and QCB security frameworks. No cookie data is sold or shared for unrelated marketing purposes.

Data Retention

Session cookies are deleted after each browsing session. Persistent cookies are retained for a maximum of 12 months unless renewed with consent.

Cross-Border Transfers

When cookie data is processed outside Qatar, QDB ensures PDPL-compliant safeguards, including contractual clauses or transfers only to jurisdictions with adequate data protection.

Updates to This Policy

This policy may be updated periodically. The latest version will always be available on QDB’s website under “Privacy & Security”.

Contact Information

Reference Frameworks

• Qatar PDPL (Law No. 13 of 2016)
• NDPO Compliance Guidelines 2023
• NCSA National Information Assurance Policy (NIAP)
• QCB Information & Cyber Security Regulation for Banks & PSPs
• ISO 27001:2022 and ISO 27701:2019

Final Note

QDB upholds privacy and transparency as core principles of secure and ethical digital banking. This Cookie Policy reinforces QDB’s commitment to protecting users’ data in compliance with national and international standards.