Domestic Worker Protections in Qatar
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Qatari national laws, Emiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Qatar has a dedicated law protecting domestic workers (housekeepers, drivers, nannies, cooks, gardeners) — Law No. 15 of 2017 was one of the first such laws in the Gulf region:
- Domestic workers are entitled to the national minimum wage of QAR 1,000/month plus housing and food allowances.
- Maximum working hours are 10 hours per day with adequate rest periods.
- Domestic workers are entitled to one day off per week, 3 weeks annual leave per year, and paid sick leave.
- Employers must provide suitable accommodation, food, and medical care.
- The worker's passport cannot be confiscated by the employer.
- End-of-service gratuity of 3 weeks' pay per year of service applies.
When does it apply?
- You work as a domestic worker in a private household in Qatar.
- Your employer is not providing minimum wage, rest days, or adequate living conditions.
- Your employer has confiscated your passport or other documents.
What to Do If You Are a Domestic Worker Whose Rights Are Being Violated in Qatar
- Report violations to the Ministry of Labour hotline at 16008.
- Contact your embassy for assistance and referral to legal support.
- If you are in danger, call 999 (police emergency).
- Keep a record of your working hours, days off, and payments received.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not accept conditions below the legal minimum. You have the same minimum wage rights as all workers in Qatar.
- Do not run away from your employer without contacting authorities first. Absconding can result in penalties — use official channels instead.
- Do not surrender your passport. It is your property and the law protects your right to keep it.
Common Questions
When does it apply — domestic worker protections?
You work as a domestic worker in a private household in Qatar.Your employer is not providing minimum wage, rest days, or adequate living conditions.Your employer has confiscated your passport or other documents.
What should I do if I am a domestic worker in Qatar and my employer is not paying me or is mistreating me?
Report violations to the Ministry of Labour hotline at 16008.Contact your embassy for assistance and referral to legal support.If you are in danger, call 999 (police emergency).Keep a record of your working hours, days off, and payments received.
What should you NOT do — domestic worker protections?
Do not accept conditions below the legal minimum. You have the same minimum wage rights as all workers in Qatar.Do not run away from your employer without contacting authorities first. Absconding can result in penalties — use official channels instead.Do not surrender your passport. It is your property and the law protects your right to keep it.