Qatar Labour Law 2025: Rules, Rights, and Responsibilities

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Introduction

Qatar has rapidly developed into one of the most attractive destinations for international workers and multinational businesses. With thousands of expatriates contributing to industries such as oil and gas, construction, hospitality, and healthcare, understanding the Qatar Labour Law 2025 is essential for both employers and employees. The law not only safeguards worker rights but also ensures smooth operations for businesses in compliance with the Ministry of Labour’s standards.

This article provides a complete SEO-based, Qatar-local and international guide to the rules, rights, and responsibilities under the updated Qatar Labour Law 2025.

Key Objectives of Qatar Labour Law

• Protecting workers’ rights across industries.

• Regulating contracts, wages, and working hours.

• Ensuring workplace safety and welfare.

• Establishing fair employer responsibilities.

• Supporting Qatar’s vision for a modern, sustainable workforce.

Employment Contracts in Qatar

All employees in Qatar must have a written contract approved by the Ministry of Labour.

• Language: Contracts are typically in Arabic (official), but bilingual contracts are accepted.

• Terms: Duration (fixed or indefinite), job role, salary, and benefits must be clearly stated.

• Probation Period: Up to 6 months, with termination rules clearly defined.

• Renewal: Contracts can be renewed or converted to indefinite contracts after completion.

Working Hours and Overtime

• Standard working hours: 48 hours per week (8 hours per day, 6 days a week).

• During Ramadan: 36 hours per week.

• Overtime pay: 125% of normal wage on weekdays and 150% on holidays/rest days.

• Workers must get at least one day off per week, usually Friday.

Wages and Payment Rules

• Salaries must be paid through the Wage Protection System (WPS) directly to employee bank accounts.

• Delays in salary payments are punishable by law.

• Workers are entitled to an end-of-service gratuity, calculated based on length of service (minimum one year).

Leave and Holidays

• Annual Leave:

  • 3 weeks for 1–5 years of service.

  • 4 weeks for over 5 years of service.

• Sick Leave: 14 days at full pay, extendable with medical proof.

• Maternity Leave: 7 weeks with full pay (50 days after delivery).

• Public Holidays: Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and National Day are official holidays.

Worker Rights under Qatar Labour Law 2025

• Safe and hygienic working conditions.

• Timely salary payments.

• Fair treatment regardless of nationality.

• Protection against unjust termination.

• The right to change jobs after contract completion without requiring employer permission.

• The right to file complaints with the Ministry of Labour.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers are legally required to:

• Provide contracts, job descriptions, and benefits as agreed.

• Ensure workplace safety with PPE and proper training.

• Pay salaries on time through the WPS.

• Cover costs of recruitment, residency permits, and exit permits.

• Provide end-of-service benefits.

Health and Safety Regulations in Qatar

The Labour Law strictly enforces occupational safety standards. Employers must:

• Supply PPE (helmets, harnesses, gloves, masks, and boots).

• Train workers on emergency procedures and hazard prevention.

• Provide shaded rest areas for outdoor workers in summer.

• Ban outdoor work between 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM during peak summer months (June–September).

Termination and Resignation Rules

• Either party can terminate the contract during probation with a 1-month notice.

• After probation, notice periods are:

  • 1 month (service up to 2 years).

  • 2 months (service above 2 years).

• Employees are entitled to full gratuity and benefits unless dismissed for serious misconduct.

Qatar Labour Law for Expats

Qatar’s updated law makes it easier for expatriates to work securely:

• No more “No Objection Certificate (NOC)” required for changing jobs.

• Workers can leave Qatar without employer approval.

• Expats enjoy the same protection as local workers under the law.

Why Businesses Must Comply

For companies operating in Qatar, compliance is not optional. Violations such as salary delays, unsafe working conditions, or ignoring WPS can result in:

• Heavy fines.

• Suspension of business licenses.

• Blacklisting from future government contracts.

Conclusion

The Qatar Labour Law 2025 ensures a balance between economic growth, worker protection, and employer responsibilities. By strictly following its rules, companies can operate smoothly, attract international talent, and build a safe, secure environment for all workers. For expatriates, this law provides confidence that their rights are respected and protected in Qatar’s growing economy.

In Qatar’s modern workforce, safety, fairness, and compliance are not just legal requirements – they are the foundation of sustainable growth.