Child Support and Spousal Maintenance
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Qatari national laws, Emiri decrees, and ministerial decisions.
Qatari National Law
What is this right?
Qatar law requires financial support for children and former spouses:
- The father is responsible for financially supporting his children, including housing, food, education, and healthcare.
- Child support continues until the daughter marries or the son becomes self-sufficient (or completes education).
- Spousal maintenance (nafaqa) includes housing, food, clothing, and medical care during marriage and the iddah period.
- A divorced wife may receive mut'a (consolation payment) — a lump sum compensation decided by the court based on the marriage length and circumstances.
- The court determines the amount based on the father's income and the child's needs.
When does it apply?
- You need child support from the other parent after separation or divorce.
- Your former spouse is not paying court-ordered maintenance.
- You need to modify support amounts due to changed circumstances.
What should you do?
- File a maintenance claim with the Sharia Court and provide evidence of the children's needs and the father's income.
- If the father refuses to pay, request court enforcement — the court can order salary deductions.
- To modify the amount, file a modification request showing changed circumstances.
- Keep records of all expenses related to the children to support your claim.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not withhold visitation as a way to pressure the other parent for payments. These are separate legal issues.
- Do not hide income to reduce support obligations. The court can investigate and impose penalties.
- Do not agree to informal arrangements. Get a court order so enforcement is possible if payments stop.
Legal Resources
We may earn a commission if you use these services — at no extra cost to you. This supports our mission to make legal information free for everyone.
LawDepotCreate separation agreements, custody documents, prenuptial agreements, and wills. Lawyer-reviewed templates ready in minutes.Create Family Documents →OurFamilyWizardThe co-parenting app trusted by families and courts. Shared calendars, expense tracking, and messaging.Try Free →LegalNatureCreate prenuptial agreements, child custody agreements, and family legal documents. State-specific and attorney-drafted.Create Family Documents →