Qatar Labour Law

Key private-sector topics with Al Meezan and ministry references.

Country: Qatar
Jurisdiction: State of Qatar private sector
Primary law: Law No. 14 of 2004 promulgating the Labour Law (and later reforms)

Working hours

Law No. 14 of 2004 sets maximum ordinary working hours at 48 hours per week (8 hours per day), reduced to 36 hours per week (6 hours per day) during Ramadan. Workers should not work more than five consecutive hours without rest intervals. Overtime and night-work premiums are set in the law.

Leave and weekly rest

Workers are entitled to a paid weekly rest of not less than 24 consecutive hours (Friday is the usual weekly rest day except for shift workers). Annual leave, sick leave, and other entitlements are defined in the Labour Law — check the current Al Meezan articles for exact balances and accrual rules.

Employment contracts

Contracts should reflect lawful working hours, wages, and accommodation/food arrangements where relevant. Later reforms changed aspects of worker mobility and wage floors; always verify the version that applies to your employment relationship.

Wages and employee rights

Qatar introduced a non-discriminatory minimum wage of QAR 1,000 per month for workers and domestic workers, with additional housing (QAR 500) and food (QAR 300) allowances when the employer does not provide housing/food, as announced for implementation from March 2021. Confirm any later updates with the Ministry.