Radiation Licensing Support Services
Regulatory Compliance | MOECC–Qatar | IAEA / ICRP Standards
We provide end-to-end support for organizations requiring regulatory approval to use, store, transport, or manage radioactive materials, in full alignment with MOECC – Qatar requirements and international standards (IAEA / ICRP). Our expert team guides clients through every stage of the licensing lifecycle — from initial facility assessment and documentation preparation, through submission and regulatory follow-up, to inspection support and license maintenance — helping organizations minimize regulatory delays, avoid non-compliance findings, and ensure safe, legally compliant operations.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK & LEGAL BASIS
All licensing activities in Qatar are governed by the following legal instruments, enforced by the Department of Radiation Protection (DRP) under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC):
- Radiation Protection Law No. 31 of 2002 — the primary legislation governing all radioactive materials and radiation sources in Qatar.
- Executive Bylaw (SCENR Resolution No. 4 of 2003) — detailed procedural and technical requirements for licensing, inspection, and compliance.
- Ministerial Decision No. 11/2025 — updated rules and conditions for safe transport of radioactive materials.
- IAEA Safety Standards (GSR Part 1, GSG-7, SSR-6) — international benchmarks for radiation protection and transport.
- ICRP Recommendations — dose limits and radiological protection principles.
- NORM Management National Programme Requirements (2023) — specific to oil & gas and industrial sectors.
GENERAL SERVICE SCOPE
- Review of facility readiness for radiation licensing compliance
- Preparation, submission, and follow-up of radiation license applications (new licenses, renewals, amendments, and scope expansion)
- Development of Radiation Protection Program (RPP) and related procedures
- Appointment support and guidance for Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)
- Shielding design review and dose assessment support
- Assistance with radioactive source registration and inventory control records
- Preparation of required risk assessments and safety documentation
- Support during regulatory inspections and site visits, and closure of regulatory observations and comments
- Advisory support for transport, storage, and disposal licensing (where applicable)
RADIATION LICENSE TYPES — DETAILED GUIDE
The following section provides a comprehensive breakdown of each radiation license type issued by the Department of Radiation Protection (DRP), MOECC–Qatar, as defined under Articles 7–17 of Executive Bylaw No. 4 of 2003. ALDuha Institute provides full consulting support for all license categories below.
LICENSE 01 | Radioactive Material Storage Facility License
This license authorizes the establishment and operation of a dedicated facility for the storage of radioactive substances and sealed or unsealed sources. It is mandatory for any organization that physically holds, warehouses, or temporarily stores radioactive materials within its premises, regardless of whether those materials are in active use. Under Article 11 of the Executive Bylaw, storage facilities are classified as radioactive establishments and require a three-stage institutional license: Site License → Establishment License → Practice License.
SCOPE & APPLICABILITY
- Storage of sealed and unsealed radioactive sources (industrial, medical, or research use)
- Temporary or long-term storage of NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) from oil & gas operations
- Storage of radioactive waste pending approved disposal
- Radiopharmaceutical cold storage in hospitals and nuclear medicine facilities
- Warehouse/transit storage for radioactive materials during import/export cycles
KEY REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Shielding Design | Storage rooms must meet dose rate limits at boundaries; shielding calculations reviewed by DRP |
| Physical Security | Controlled access zones, locks, surveillance, and unauthorized entry prevention measures |
| Warning Signage | Internationally recognized radiation warning symbols at all entry points (per IAEA/ISO standards) |
| Ventilation | Adequate airflow/exhaust for facilities storing volatile or gaseous radioactive materials |
| Source Registry | Up-to-date inventory log of all stored sources: isotope, activity, quantity, location, condition |
| Waste Management Plan | Documented procedure for categorization, packaging, labeling, and disposal of radioactive waste |
| Emergency Plan | Written facility emergency response plan for radiation accidents or source loss/theft |
| RSO Appointment | Designated Radiation Safety Officer responsible for facility compliance and DRP liaison |
| Periodic Inspection | Facility subject to announced and unannounced DRP inspections at any time |
| License Validity | Determined by DRP based on source type, activity level, and risk category |
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR STORAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
- 1. Completed DRP official license application form
- 2. Detailed engineering plans and layouts of the storage facility (dimensions, materials, shielding calculations)
- 3. Report on the nature, volume, and types of radioactive materials to be stored
- 4. Radiation Protection Program (RPP) specific to storage operations
- 5. Physical security and access control plan
- 6. Radioactive source/material inventory management system description
- 7. Environmental impact assessment for the storage area
- 8. Radioactive waste management and disposal plan
- 9. Emergency response and contingency plan
- 10. CV and qualification certificates of the appointed Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)
- 11. Proof of compliance with dose rate limits at facility boundaries (measurement data or shielding calculations)
ALDuha Institute Support for Storage License
- Facility gap assessment and compliance audit prior to application
- Full preparation of all required technical documentation and RPP
- Shielding design review and dose rate boundary calculations
- RSO qualification assessment and onboarding support
- DRP submission, follow-up, and inspection preparation
- Closure of DRP observations and corrective action documentation
LICENSE 02 | Radioactive Source Use (Practice) License
The Practice License (License to Use) authorizes the actual operation, use, or exploitation of radioactive materials, sources, or radiation-emitting devices within a licensed facility. It is the final stage of institutional licensing under Article 11(3) of the Executive Bylaw, issued only after the Site License and Establishment License have been granted, and after all construction and equipment installation is complete. This license governs all activities that involve direct interaction with radiation sources, including NDT, industrial radiography, nuclear medicine, radiopharmaceutical production, and research.
ACTIVITIES COVERED BY THE USE LICENSE
- Industrial radiography and non-destructive testing (NDT/RT) using sealed radioactive sources
- Use of radiation-emitting devices (X-ray machines, accelerators, gamma irradiators)
- Nuclear medicine procedures, diagnostic imaging (PET/CT), and radiotherapy
- Well logging and NORM monitoring in oil & gas operations
- Research applications using radioactive tracers or activated materials
- Calibration services and quality control applications using radioactive reference sources
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR USE LICENSE
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Pre-requisite Licenses | Valid Site License and Establishment License must be in place before applying |
| RSO Designation | Appointed and DRP-approved Radiation Safety Officer is mandatory for all use licenses |
| Radiation Protection Program | Comprehensive RPP covering: dose monitoring, area classification, work procedures, emergency response |
| Worker Qualification | All radiation workers must have verified scientific/technical qualifications per Article 25 |
| Dosimetry System | Individual dose monitoring for all workers in controlled areas (TLD badges, OSL, film badges) |
| Area Classification | Controlled and supervised areas must be designated, marked, and managed per Article 26 |
| Medical Surveillance | Pre-employment and periodic medical examinations for all radiation workers |
| Dose Limits Compliance | Occupational: 20 mSv/year (5-year average); Public: 1 mSv/year — per IAEA BSS/ICRP |
| Training Records | Documented radiation safety training for all workers; records maintained for 30 years |
| Source Accountability | Complete source registration with DRP; no disposal/transfer without DRP authorization (Art. 20) |
| Annual Reporting | Submission of radiation records and dose data to DRP no later than one month after year-end |
| Application Lead Time | Submit application at least 2 months before intended start of operations (Article 16) |
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR USE / PRACTICE LICENSE
- 1. Completed DRP license application form (Practice/Use category)
- 2. Copy of valid Site License and Establishment License
- 3. Detailed Radiation Protection Program (RPP) — site-specific and activity-specific
- 4. Detailed report on the radioactive sources and devices to be used (isotope, activity, quantity, form)
- 5. Environmental impact assessment of the proposed practice
- 6. List of all radiation workers with CVs, qualifications, and training records
- 7. Dosimetry and individual monitoring plan
- 8. Workplace monitoring program (dose rate surveys, contamination monitoring procedures)
- 9. Medical surveillance program for radiation workers
- 10. Emergency response and contingency plan
- 11. Quality assurance / quality control program for radiation measurements and equipment calibration
ALDuha Institute Support for Use License
- End-to-end development of the Radiation Protection Program (RPP)
- RSO appointment support, qualification review, and DRP approval coordination
- Workplace dose assessment and area classification surveys
- Preparation and review of all technical documentation packages
- Worker training coordination and training records management
- DRP submission, liaison, and inspection readiness preparation
LICENSE 03 | Radioactive Material Import License
The Import License authorizes the bringing of radioactive materials, sealed sources, or radiation-emitting devices into the State of Qatar from an external supplier or country. Under Article 7(1) of the Executive Bylaw, no import of radioactive substances is permitted without a prior license from the DRP. Qatar's import licensing framework aligns with the IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources and the IAEA Guidance on Import and Export of Radioactive Sources.
KEY REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR IMPORT LICENSE
- Importer must hold a valid Practice License (Use License) authorizing the use of the source being imported
- The receiving facility must have a valid Storage/Establishment License if the source will be stored
- Supplier/exporter country must have provided export authorization (IAEA consent procedure for Cat.1 & 2 sources)
- Source must be properly classified per IAEA source categorization (Category 1–5)
- Transport package must comply with IAEA SSR-6 (2018 edition) packaging and labeling requirements
- Shipper must hold a valid Transport License for Qatar if delivering by road within the country
- All radioactive shipments must pass through approved customs points with DRP notification
- Consent documentation from the exporting country's Competent Authority may be required for high-activity sources (Cat. 1 & 2)
LICENSE CATEGORIES BY HALF-LIFE
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Long Half-Life Sources (Non-medical) | Application must be submitted at least ONE WEEK before the intended import date. Applies to industrial sealed sources (Ir-192, Co-60, Cs-137, Am-241), NORM, and research isotopes. |
| Short Half-Life Sources (Medical use) | Application must be submitted at least ONE DAY before expected receipt. In urgent cases it may be submitted on the same day. Applies to PET radioisotopes (F-18, Ga-68), Tc-99m generators, and therapeutic isotopes (I-131, Lu-177). |
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR IMPORT LICENSE APPLICATION
- 1. Completed DRP import license application form
- 2. Copy of valid Use License / Practice License for the intended application
- 3. Copy of valid Storage / Establishment License (if the source will be stored at the facility)
- 4. Detailed description of the radioactive material: radionuclide, chemical/physical form, activity level (Bq), quantity
- 5. Supplier details: name, country, regulatory authorization status
- 6. IAEA source category classification documentation
- 7. Transport package type and UN number (per IAEA SSR-6)
- 8. Proposed import route and expected port of entry
- 9. End-use justification and description of intended practice
- 10. For Cat. 1 & 2 sources: exporting country Competent Authority export consent / notification
ALDuha Institute Support for Import License
- Pre-import compliance review against DRP and IAEA requirements
- Coordination with international suppliers on required documentation
- Application preparation and DRP submission on behalf of the client
- Source categorization verification and transport package compliance check
- Coordination with customs/port authorities for smooth clearance
- Expedited support for short half-life medical radioisotope imports
LICENSE 04 | Radioactive Material Export License
The Export License authorizes the transfer of radioactive materials, sealed sources, or radiation devices out of the State of Qatar to another country. As with imports, Article 7(1) of the Executive Bylaw prohibits export without prior DRP authorization. Qatar's export regime follows the IAEA Code of Conduct guidance, which requires the exporting state's Competent Authority (DRP/MOECC) to obtain consent from the receiving country's Competent Authority before transferring Category 1 and 2 radioactive sources, ensuring a documented and traceable chain of custody throughout the source lifecycle.
WHEN IS AN EXPORT LICENSE REQUIRED?
- Return of sealed sources to international supplier or manufacturer (end-of-life or lease return)
- Transfer of radioactive equipment or sources to another country for repair, calibration, or maintenance
- Export of NORM-contaminated materials or equipment from oil & gas operations
- Transfer of disused or orphan sources for international disposal or recycling programs
- Re-export of radioactive materials originally imported into Qatar
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPORT LICENSE
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Application Timeline | At least ONE WEEK before intended export date for long half-life sources |
| Receiving Country Authorization | Confirmation that the receiving country's Competent Authority has accepted the shipment (for Cat.1 & 2) |
| Source Traceability | Full documentation of source history, activity levels, condition, and regulatory status in Qatar |
| IAEA Notification | For Category 1 & 2 sources: mandatory IAEA notification and bilateral Competent Authority consent |
| Packaging Compliance | Export package must meet IAEA SSR-6 transport regulations and carry correct UN markings |
| Export Manifest | Detailed export manifest listing all radioactive materials, quantities, activities, and destinations |
| Customs Coordination | DRP notification to Qatar Customs Authority for all radioactive exports |
| End-State Accountability | Licensee must confirm receipt by the destination facility and update Qatar's source registry |
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR EXPORT LICENSE APPLICATION
- 1. Completed DRP export license application form
- 2. Description of radioactive material: radionuclide, form, activity, quantity, IAEA category
- 3. Destination country and receiving facility details, including their regulatory authorization
- 4. Receiving country Competent Authority import consent/notification (for Cat. 1 & 2 sources)
- 5. Source history documentation (original import records, use history, activity decay calculations)
- 6. Proposed export route, transport company, and port of exit
- 7. Transport package type and compliance certification (IAEA SSR-6)
- 8. Justification for export (source return, end-of-life, disposal program, etc.)
- 9. Confirmation of source status in the national radioactive source registry
ALDuha Institute Support for Export License
- Source lifecycle assessment and export eligibility review
- Coordination with receiving country and their Competent Authority
- IAEA notification support and bilateral consent process management
- Preparation of complete export documentation package for DRP
- Transport compliance review and export route optimization
- Post-export source deregistration from Qatar national source registry
LICENSE 05 | Radioactive Material Transport License
The Transport License authorizes the physical movement of radioactive materials by road, air, sea, or other means within or through the State of Qatar. This license is governed by Article 7(1) and Article 16(5) of the Executive Bylaw and reinforced by Ministerial Decision No. 11/2025, which sets updated safety rules and vehicle requirements. All transport activities must also comply with IAEA SSR-6 (Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material), incorporated into Qatar's regulatory framework. A Transport License is required for every consignment of radioactive material transported within Qatar regardless of quantity or activity level.
SCOPE OF TRANSPORT LICENSE
- Road transport of radioactive sources to/from job sites (NDT / radiography operations)
- Transport of sealed sources between licensed facilities (hospital, laboratory, storage site)
- Movement of NORM waste from oil & gas production sites to approved disposal/treatment facilities
- Transport of radioactive materials during import/export cycles (from port to licensed facility)
- Medical radioisotope transport from import point to hospital or nuclear medicine center
- Emergency transport for orphaned sources or recovery operations
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR TRANSPORT LICENSE
| REQUIREMENT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Application Timeline | At least ONE WEEK before transport date (long half-life); ONE DAY for medical short half-life |
| Vehicle Requirements | Transport vehicles must meet Ministerial Decision 11/2025 specifications (marking, containment, shielding) |
| Package Classification | Transport packages must be classified as Excepted, Industrial (IP), Type A, B, or C per IAEA SSR-6 |
| UN Labeling & Marking | Correct UN number, proper shipping name, transport index, and criticality safety index on all packages |
| Driver Training | Transport drivers must hold DRP-recognized training in radioactive material transport safety |
| Radiation Survey | Pre-shipment dose rate and contamination survey at package surface and at 1 meter distance |
| Vehicle Placarding | Vehicles must display radiation warning placards (Class 7 dangerous goods) |
| Route Planning | Pre-approved transport route avoiding populated areas, schools, hospitals where feasible |
| Emergency Procedures | Written emergency instructions for driver covering spill, contamination, and accident response |
| Consignment Records | Transport manifest/consignment note with full source details must accompany every shipment |
| Post-Transport Survey | Vehicle floor contamination survey after delivery; results documented and retained |
| Exclusive Use Shipments | High-activity sources (Cat.1) may require exclusive use transport with DRP escort coordination |
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR TRANSPORT LICENSE APPLICATION
- 1. Completed DRP transport license application form
- 2. Description of radioactive material: radionuclide, activity, form, quantity
- 3. Source of origin (sender) and destination (receiver) details including their valid DRP licenses
- 4. Transport package type, UN number, and IAEA SSR-6 compliance certificate
- 5. Transport company details and vehicle specifications (per Ministerial Decision 11/2025)
- 6. Driver qualification and training records in radioactive material transport
- 7. Proposed transport route and schedule
- 8. Pre-shipment radiation survey report (dose rate at surface and 1 meter)
- 9. Emergency response instructions and accident notification plan
- 10. Copy of shipper's (consignor) valid Practice License or Use License
ALDuha Institute Support for Transport License
- Transport package classification and IAEA SSR-6 compliance review
- Preparation of complete transport documentation and consignment notes
- Pre-shipment radiation survey support and documentation
- Driver and transport team training coordination (IAEA SSR-6 / ADR)
- Route planning advisory and emergency procedure development
- DRP application submission, follow-up, and permit tracking
SUMMARY: QATAR RADIATION LICENSE TYPES AT A GLANCE
| LICENSE TYPE | KEY HIGHLIGHTS |
|---|---|
| Storage Facility License | Required before storing any radioactive materials on-site. 3-stage process: Site → Establishment → Practice. Requires shielding, security, waste management plan, RSO. |
| Use / Practice License | Required for actual use/operation of radioactive sources or devices. Final stage of institutional licensing. Requires RPP, RSO, dosimetry, worker training. |
| Import License | Required before bringing radioactive materials into Qatar. Lead time: ≥1 week (non-medical) or ≥1 day (medical). Must align with IAEA Cat. 1&2 consent procedures. |
| Export License | Required before transferring radioactive materials out of Qatar. Requires receiving country consent for high-activity sources. Source deregistration required post-export. |
| Transport License | Required for all movement of radioactive materials within Qatar. Governed by Ministerial Decision 11/2025 + IAEA SSR-6. Covers vehicle, package, driver, and route requirements. |
APPLICABLE INDUSTRY SECTORS
| Heading | Details |
|---|---|
| Industrial Radiography & NDT |
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| Oil & Gas — NORM / Sealed Sources |
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| Medical & Healthcare Facilities |
|
| Research & Educational Institutions |
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