Qatar Law No. 9 of 2026 Analysis

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Labor Law

Remoly · July 7, 2026

Qatar has published Law No. 9 of 2026, introducing the most significant structural amendments to the current labor law framework in recent years. The amendments focus on three core areas: contract termination rules, working hours, and end-of-service benefit calculations.

Reform Background

Since hosting the 2022 World Cup, Qatar has been comprehensively reforming its labor system. Previous reforms include abolishing the kafala sponsorship system, introducing a minimum wage, and establishing labor dispute resolution mechanisms. Law No. 9 builds on these reforms as a "Phase 2" initiative.

Amendment 1: Contract Termination Rules

Fixed-Term Contracts

Employers terminating fixed-term contracts without justifiable cause must pay compensation for the remaining contract period, subject to a cap. Employees may terminate in specific circumstances without losing end-of-service benefits.

Notice Periods (Indefinite-Term Contracts)

Service Length	Minimum Notice
Less than 2 years	30 days
2 to 5 years	60 days
5+ years	90 days

Amendment 2: Working Hours

The 48-hour work week cap is maintained. Overtime: 1.25x standard, 1.5x for night work (9 PM-6 AM) and public holidays. Flexible work arrangements (flex time, shift work, compressed weeks) are legalized for the first time. Rest: 1 hour after 5 consecutive hours, 24 consecutive hours weekly.

Amendment 3: End-of-Service Benefits

Service Length	Old	New
<1 yr	None	None
1-3 yrs	3 wks/yr	3 wks/yr
3-5 yrs	4 wks/yr	1 mo/yr
5+ yrs	5 wks/yr	1.5 mo/yr

Calculation base changed from "last basic salary" to "average monthly salary over 12 months including fixed allowances." Maximum cap raised from 24 to 36 months' salary.

Compliance Recommendations

Contract review — Update all employment contract templates
Working hours audit — Sign written flexible work agreements
EOSB financial planning — Recalculate liabilities for long-term employees
HR process optimization — Improve termination documentation
Transition management — Monitor effective dates and transition provisions

This article is provided by Remoly for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

???? Navigating Qatar labor law compliance? The new contract termination rules and EOSB framework will impact your employment costs. Remoly's global experts provide Qatar compliance assessments and local support. ???? contact@remoly.net · Talk to our team →

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