Maternity and Paternity Leave
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 provides maternity leave for working mothers:
- Maternity leave: 50 days of paid leave, which can start up to 15 days before the expected delivery date.
- You must have completed one year of continuous service to receive full pay during maternity leave.
- If you have less than one year of service, maternity leave is unpaid.
- Nursing breaks: After returning to work, mothers are entitled to one hour per day for nursing for one year after delivery. This counts as paid working time.
- Dismissal protection: An employer cannot terminate a woman because of pregnancy or during maternity leave.
- Paternity leave: There is no statutory paternity leave under the Labour Law, though some employers provide it as a benefit.
When does it apply?
- You are a female employee working in Qatar and are pregnant or have recently given birth.
- You need time off for prenatal or postnatal care.
- You have been dismissed or threatened with dismissal due to pregnancy.
What should you do?
- Notify your employer of your pregnancy and expected delivery date as early as possible.
- Provide a medical certificate confirming the pregnancy and expected delivery date.
- If your employer refuses maternity leave or terminates you, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour.
- Request your nursing hour schedule in writing after you return to work.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not resign under pressure. If your employer pushes you to quit because of pregnancy, this is unlawful.
- Do not accept unpaid maternity leave if you have completed one year of service. You are entitled to full pay.
- Do not skip medical documentation. A doctor's certificate protects your rights if a dispute arises.
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