Does the minimum wage apply to all workers in Qatar?
Yes. The minimum wage applies to all workers regardless of which country they come from, and whatever job they are doing. This includes women and men employed by households.
When will the minimum wage come into force?
The minimum wage will come into force six months after the new law is published in the official gazette.
How will my overtime be calculated?
When the new minimum wage comes into force, the overtime rate must be based on no less than the new minimum basic wage. It could be higher, depending on the terms of your contract.See Articles 74 - 76 of the Labour Law.
How will my end of service gratuity be calculated?
If your contract ends after the new minimum wage comes into force, your end of service gratuity should be calculated based on no less than the new minimum basic wage (Article 72 of the Labour Law).
Under my current contract I am receiving less than the new minimum wage. Does the new law apply to me?
Yes, after the new minimum wage comes into force, the new law applies to you regardless of the amount stated in your current contract. The law does not require you and your employer to sign a new contract in order for you to receive the new wage.
Will I be affected if I am already receiving more than the new minimum wage?
Not necessarily. If your basic wage, food and accommodation are already above what is required by law, your employer is not obliged to increase your pay. You can try to negotiate a higher salary or more benefits, but it would have to be agreed to by your employer.
Can my employer reduce my pay to the new minimum wage?
If your employer attempts to reduce your pay to the minimum wage level, this would constitute a breach of contract, and you could lodge a complaint.Article 5 of the new Ministerial Decree (No. 17 of 2020 Determining the Minimum Wage for Workers and Domestic Workers) states that your employer cannot use the new legislation as a justification to lower your salary and offer you conditions that are less favourable than the conditions in your existing contract.
What should I do if I am receiving less than the minimum wageafter it comes to effect?
You could raise this with your employer, and/or notify the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs. You can submit a complaint at the Labour Relations Department in person, on the hotline 16008 or by email [email protected]
