National Minimum Wage

Source: Law No. 14 of 2004 (Labour Law); Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2020 (Minimum Wage)

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 has a national minimum wage that applies to all workers, including domestic workers. Since March 2021:

  • QAR 1,000 per month basic wage.
  • QAR 500 per month for housing allowance, if the employer does not provide accommodation.
  • QAR 300 per month for food allowance, if the employer does not provide meals.
  • This means the minimum total compensation can be QAR 1,800 per month if the employer provides neither housing nor food.

The minimum wage applies to all nationalities and all sectors, with no exceptions. Employers must pay wages through the Wage Protection System (WPS), which is an electronic salary transfer system monitored by the government.

When does it apply?

  • You work in Qatar under any type of employment contract, including domestic work.
  • You are paid less than QAR 1,000 basic monthly wage.
  • Your employer does not provide housing or food and does not pay the additional allowances.

What should you do?

  • Check your pay slip and bank records to confirm your wages meet the minimum.
  • If underpaid, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour (MoL) through their online portal or by visiting a labour office.
  • You can also call the MoL hotline at 16008 to report wage violations.
  • Keep copies of your employment contract and pay records as evidence.

What should you NOT do?

  • Do not agree to receive part of your salary in cash outside the WPS system. This makes it harder to prove your wages if a dispute arises.
  • Do not sign documents you do not understand. Ask for a translation if the contract is not in your language.
  • Do not wait too long to complain. File your complaint as soon as you notice underpayment.

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