Termination and Notice Period
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?
Both employers and workers in Qatar must follow notice period rules when ending employment:
- Less than 5 years of service: Minimum one month written notice.
- 5 or more years of service: Minimum two months written notice.
- Either party can pay salary in lieu of notice instead of working out the notice period.
- Probation period: Cannot exceed 6 months. During probation, either party can end the contract with shorter notice as agreed.
- An employer can dismiss a worker without notice only for serious misconduct listed in Article 61 (e.g., fraud, assault, repeated absence).
- A worker can leave without notice if the employer breaches the contract or fails to provide a safe workplace (Article 51).
When does it apply?
- You are resigning from your job or have been told your employment is ending.
- Your employer terminates you without the required notice or pay in lieu.
- You are dismissed for alleged misconduct and believe the reason is unfair.
What should you do?
- Give or request notice in writing and keep a signed copy.
- If terminated without proper notice, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour to claim notice pay.
- If dismissed for misconduct, you can challenge the dismissal through the Labour Dispute Resolution Committee.
- Make sure you receive all final entitlements: unpaid wages, leave balance, end-of-service gratuity, and repatriation ticket.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not abandon your job without notice. This can result in a labour ban and loss of entitlements.
- Do not accept a termination letter that says "resignation" if you were fired. This can affect your rights.
- Do not assume you have no rights during probation. Probationary workers are still covered by the Labour Law.
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 employment contracts, demand letters, and workplace documents in minutes. State-specific templates reviewed by lawyers.Create Business Documents →LegalNatureCreate employment agreements, NDAs, and workplace policy documents online. Attorney-drafted templates customized to your state.Create Documents →LegalZoomSend a demand letter or consult an employment attorney online. Fast, affordable, and no office visit required.Get Legal Help →