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

Navigating Qatar's New Labor Law?

Remoly provides end-to-end Employer of Record (EOR) and payroll services across 100+ countries. Law No. 9 of 2026 introduces significant changes to contract termination, working hours, and end-of-service benefits. Remoly provides Qatar compliance assessments and global EOR solutions across 100+ countries.

• Qatar Ministry of Labour

Sources:

• Qatar Ministry of Labour
• Qatar Legal Portal

Remoly — Your Global EOR & Employer of Record Partner

Serving 100+ Countries & Regions Worldwide

* This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific compliance guidance, consult a qualified professional.

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