Employment law in the State of Qatar
Virtual live course to explain how Qatar Labour Law addresses various aspects of the employment relationship, including employment contracts, working hours, leaves, and termination procedures. Qatar places a strong emphasis on ensuring workers are granted minimum entitlements and occupational health and safety.
Synopsis
Employment law in the State of Qatar is primarily governed by Qatari Law No. 14 of 2004 (the “Qatar Labour Law”), which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. The Qatar Labour Law addresses various aspects of the employment relationship, including employment contracts, working hours, leaves, and termination procedures. Qatar places a strong emphasis on ensuring workers are granted minimum entitlements and occupational health and safety. The Qatar Labour Law is supported by Qatar Law No 21/2015 Regulating the entry, exit and residency of expatriates in Qatar (the “Qatar Immigration Law”) which specifies legal requirements for residency and work permits. Reforms, including the introduction of a non-discriminatory minimum wage and changes to the exit permit system, demonstrate Qatar's commitment to improving labour rights. Employers operating in Qatar need to stay informed about evolving labour laws, including the introduction of Qatarisation requirements, and market practice and ensure compliance to maintain a harmonious and legally sound workplace.
Who should attend
This Qatar Labour Law virtual training course is relevant to Qatar regional HR managers and international HR managers or in-house counsel and directors with responsibility for employees in Qatar. It will also be useful to managers and directors who anticipate entering the Qatar market and who need to be aware of their responsibilities to their people.
Programme
Session One - 12 January 2026
The employment law landscape in Qatar
- overview
- recent changes
Recruitment
- background checks
- immigration
Contracts of employment
- mandatory requirements
- choice of law
Key statutory provisions
- probation
- term and notice
- pay, allowances, deductions
- leave entitlements
- working hours and overtime
- entitlements on termination
- non-compete
Session Two - 13 January 2026
Disciplinary matters
- statutory requirements
- additional considerations
- practical guidance
Termination of employment
- process
- risk
- additional circumstances
Qatarization
- what is it?
- what do businesses need to consider?
Labour Committee litigation
- overview
Key contacts
Lisa Bryson Partner
M: +971 5668 16410 E: LisaBryson@eversheds-sutherland.com
Corrine Sobers Principal Associate
M: +974 5048 2603 E: corrinesobers@eversheds-sutherland.com
If your organisation is currently responsible for employees in global jurisdictions, or it is considering establishing operations overseas, it is essential that you are aware of the local employment laws and HR best practice. Eversheds Sutherland offers a range of global employment law courses. These courses provide you with the opportunity to learn from experts and from peers who are encountering similar situations to themselves.
For information on any of our international employment law training courses, please contact us on +44 (0) 113 200 4040 or employmenttraining@eversheds-sutherland.com
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