In recent years, many important amendments have been introduced to the Qatar Labour Laws. Qatar’s growing popularity has started to attract many workers from outside the country to seek employment in Qatar.
To make Qatar’s labour market as competitive as the Western labour market, many changes have been introduced to Law No. 14 of 2004. So, let us look at all the important provisions of Qatar’s Labout Laws in 2025.
Important Provisions of Qatar Labour Law 2025
Employment Contracts
Employers need to provide their employees a contract outlining all the necessary employment terms. This contract must be written in Arabic. In cases where a translated copy of the contract exists, the terms mentioned in the Arabic version will prevail. (Article 9)
Non-Qatari Worker Provisions
Recruitment and employment of expatriates require permits. Employers are responsible for residency formalities. (Articles 35–36)
Recruitment Regulations
Agencies must obtain licenses and are prohibited from charging fees to workers. Contracts must align with the Ministry’s model. (Articles 28–33)
Probation Period
The probation period shall be 6 months. Both the employer and the employee shall have the power to terminate the employment within this time after providing a notice 1 week prior. (Article 37)
Working Hours and Overtime
Standard work hours shall be 8 hours a day or 48 hours per week. Overtime pay for workers working normal hour shifts will not be less than 25%. For other employees, the overtime pay shall not be less than 50%. (Articles 73–75)
Rest and Leave Entitlements
Employees are entitled to a weekly rest day (Friday typically) and annual leave of 3 weeks (after 1 year of service) increasing to 4 weeks after 5 years. (Articles 78–81)
Wages and Payment
Wages must be paid in Qatari currency through official channels (banks, financial institutions) by the 7th of the following month. (Article 66)
End of Service Gratuity
Employees are entitled to a gratuity of 3 weeks’ basic wage for each year of service after completing one year. (Article 54)
Termination of Employment
The contract may be terminated with notice (1 month for ≤5 years of service; 2 months for >5 years). Unjustified termination leads to compensation. (Articles 49–50, 61)
Employment of Women and Minors
Women have equal rights in employment and are protected from termination during maternity. Employment of minors (under 16) is prohibited. (Articles 93–96, 84–91)
Occupational Safety and Health
An employer must take all the protective measures necessary to make work environment safe. (Articles 99–110)
Disciplinary Measures
Employers can apply disciplinary actions including warnings, fines, suspension, and termination with conditions. (Articles 61–63)
What is the Importance of Recruitment Agencies for Qatar Labour Law Compliance?
Recruitment agencies in Qatar remain constantly updated with all the changes that occur in Qatar Labour Laws. This allows them to provide their clients with sound advice that helps them recruit talent from both within and outside Qatar, without any legal consequences. At Capstone Solutions, we ensure your business is able to hire the best workers in Qatar.
Need support with recruitment while being compliant with Qatar Labour Laws 2025? Contact Capstone Solutions today!
