Qatar Working Hours & Labour Law 2026 | Explained

If you are trying to understand Qatar’s working hours, this guide explains the exact daily and weekly limits, overtime pay rules, Ramadan working hours and employee break rights under Qatar labour law. Whether you are an employee, employer, or planning a job move, you will get clear, practical information without legal confusion.

1. What is the Work Week in Qatar?

The work week in Qatar, according to the Qatar labour law, is usually from Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are the rest days.

Normal working hours are up to eight hours each day. In total, that makes 48 hours each week. This gives a clear guide for employers and employees.

Daily and Weekly Maximum Working Hours

Qatar’s labor law mandates strict limits on daily and weekly maximum working hours to protect workers from exploitation and ensure their well-being.

The table below summarizes these limits:

Importantly, employees are entitled to a minimum of one rest day per week, generally Friday.

While deviations from this standard may occur, these exceptions must be justified and compensated appropriately, aligning with the Qatar labor law’s emphasis on worker welfare.

2. Overtime Regulations

Overtime rules are very important to ensure that people get paid fairly for extra work hours. It is essential for both employers and employees to understand these rules.

Knowing them helps create a clear and positive work relationship.

Next, we will look at the rules about overtime pay in Qatar.

Calculating Overtime Pay

Overtime pay in Qatar is based on a worker’s basic wage and any extra allowances in their employment contract.

If an employee works overtime on normal days or public holidays, they receive 125% of their usual hourly rate.

For overtime hours worked between 9 pm and 3 am, which includes Fridays, employees are paid 150% of their regular hourly rate.

This higher pay reflects the extra burden and inconvenience of working during unusual hours.

Limits and Exceptions to Overtime

To protect the health of workers, the Qatar labour law has clear rules about overtime work. An employee cannot work more than 10 hours each day, including overtime.

There may be some exceptions to this rule. These exceptions happen in certain cases, like avoiding serious financial loss or danger.

They might also apply to reduce the outcomes of these situations. However, these exceptions have strict rules. This shows that the law focuses on keeping employees safe and healthy.

3. Breaks and Rest Periods

Breaks and rest periods are very important for the health and productivity of employees. Knowing about these rights helps create a good and effective work environment in Qatar.

Now, let’s discuss the specific rules about required breaks and annual leave.

Mandatory Breaks During Work Hours

Under Qatari law, workers have the right to take at least one hour off after five straight hours of work. This time is meant for rest, prayer, and meals.

Employees must receive these breaks without losing any pay or annual leave. This rule helps workers relax and come back to work feeling better, which boosts their productivity and supports a healthier balance between work and life.

Annual Leave and Public Holidays

Qatari law says that employees can take annual leave and enjoy public holidays.

After working for at least one year, employees can take three weeks of paid leave. If they work for over five years, they get four weeks.

In addition, Qatar has 11 public holidays each year. If a holiday happens on a working day, employees do not have to work that day.

These rules show that Qatar cares about giving employees enough time to rest and be happy at work.

4. Special Provisions for Different Sectors

The labor law in Qatar considers the different parts of its economy. It has special rules for various industries to meet their specific needs.

These laws focus on finding a balance between what each sector requires and protecting workers.

Now, let’s take a look at these rules for different industries.

Sector-Specific Working Hour Rules

Most industries in Qatar follow standard working hours. However, some fields, like healthcare and security, may have different rules due to what they do.

For example, healthcare workers might have shifts that change regularly or may be on-call. On the other hand, security staff may work longer shifts to provide security at all hours.

Still, these differences must stick to the main ideas of worker welfare and fair pay stated in the Qatar labor law.

Exemptions and Modifications in Working Hours

Some jobs, especially in management or supervision, may not follow regular working hour rules in Qatar. These exceptions understand how tough these roles can be and allow for more flexibility in making decisions.

Also, some jobs might require changes in work hours, like shift work. However, any changes or exceptions should be clearly stated in the employment contract. They should not risk the health and well-being of the employees.

5. Rights of Foreign Workers

Foreign workers play an important role in the Qatari workforce. They help a lot with the country’s economic growth.

Qatar’s labor law gives special rights to these workers. This law aims to protect their interests and make sure they are treated fairly.

Here are some important rights that these workers have.

Work Permits and Residency Requirements

Expatriate workers in Qatar must get work permits and residency permits to live and work in the country legally.

This process requires them to submit necessary documents and follow the steps set by the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor, and Social Affairs.

These rules help ensure all workers are employed legally. They protect foreign workers from unfair treatment.

This process also helps the government keep track of expatriate workers. It creates a more organized labor market.

Changing Employers and Mobility Rights

Foreign workers in Qatar have an important right. They can change their employer if they meet certain conditions. Workers can switch jobs after completing a notice period. This period is usually found in their employment contract.

This rule gives workers more freedom. It allows them to look for better job chances and stops employers from taking advantage of them.

This freedom helps create a more active and flexible labor market in Qatar.

6. Legal Protections and Dispute Resolution

Qatar’s labour law offers strong protections for all workers. It includes ways to handle problems and settle disputes. These rules are important for protecting worker rights and making sure workplaces are fair.

Let’s look at how disputes are resolved and how governing bodies help protect labor rights.

Addressing Grievances and Disputes Over Working Hours

In Qatar, if there are problems with working hours or other job-related issues, employees can use clear ways to seek help. The first step is usually to try to settle the problem directly with their employer.

If that doesn’t work, workers can file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor, and Social Affairs. This ministry will step in to help mediate, working to find a fair solution for everyone involved.

The Qatar Government Portal (Hukoomi) provides verified information on public services, laws, employment rules, and administrative procedures. It is commonly used by residents and businesses to check official guidelines related to labour laws, visas, and government services.

Role of the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor, and Social Affairs

The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor, and Social Affairs (MADLSA) is very important in protecting labor rights in Qatar. It has the job of making and enforcing labor laws. The ministry also helps solve labor disputes and aims to keep fair working conditions for everyone.

They look into claims of labor law violations. They mediate disputes between workers and employers. When employers do not follow the rules, the ministry can impose penalties. This helps protect workers’ rights and encourages employers to follow the rules.

7. Conclusion

Understanding Qatar’s official work hours helps both employees and employers stay compliant and avoid misunderstandings. From daily limits to overtime pay and Ramadan adjustments, knowing the rules ensures smoother work arrangements and fair expectations for everyone involved.

Foreign workers need to understand their benefits, like annual leave and public holidays. By learning about legal rights and ways to solve problems, employers and employees can handle work issues better. Stay updated to protect your rights and help create a positive work atmosphere in Qatar.

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9. FAQs

(Q) What are standard working hours in Qatar?
(A) Standard working hours in Qatar are 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week under labour law, though some industries may have different arrangements.

(Q) Is overtime paid in Qatar?
(A) Yes, overtime must be compensated at a higher hourly rate as required by Qatar labour regulations.

(Q) Do work hours reduce during Ramadan in Qatar?
(A) Yes, Muslim employees usually work reduced hours during Ramadan, and many companies shorten shifts overall.

(Q) Are lunch breaks counted as work hours in Qatar?
(A) No, lunch and prayer breaks are generally not counted as official working hours.

(Q) What is the weekly day off in Qatar?
(A) Most companies provide Friday as the weekly rest day, though some industries operate on different schedules.