Qatar’s Minimum Wage Law Comes Into Effect

According to the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (“MADLSA”), Qatar’s minimum wage law which was promulgated by Law No. 17 of 2020 officially came into effect on March 21, 2021 (“Minimum Wage Law”). The implementation of the Minimum Wage Law marks the end of a 6 month transition period afforded to assist companies in adapting to the new requirements. The Minimum Wage Law applies to both employees and domestic workers, who are themselves subject to different employment laws.  

According to the Minimum Wage Law, employees are entitled to a minimum wage of QR 1,000 per month. MADLSA has clarified that if an existing employment contract provides for a sum that is less than the minimum, a new employment contract will be required. If adequate food and accommodation are not provided by the employer, then the employee and domestic worker will be entitled to an additional allowance of QR 500 for housing, and QR 300 for food.

Qatar is the first country in the region to pass and implement minimum wage legislation.