Qatar’s Domestic Worker Law Explained for Employers

Domestic workers in Qatar, including housemaids, nannies, cooks, private drivers and home carers, are protected by Law No. 15 of 2017 on Domestic Workers and by the national Minimum Wage Law. Understanding these rules protects your family as well as the person you employ.

A written, certified contract

Every domestic worker must have a written employment contract certified by the Ministry of Labour. It states the type of work, the salary and the main conditions of employment. If the contract exists in more than one language, the Arabic text prevails.

Working hours and rest

• A maximum of 10 working hours a day, unless otherwise agreed within the law
• Breaks during the day for rest, prayer and meals
• At least one paid day off every week

Salary and minimum wage

The Minimum Wage Law (Law No. 17 of 2020), in force since 20 March 2021, sets a basic minimum wage of QAR 1,000 per month for all workers. Domestic workers are also provided with food and accommodation by the employer. The salary must be paid no later than three days after the end of each month.

Annual leave and travel

Domestic workers are entitled to three weeks of paid annual leave each year and a return ticket to their home country at least once every two years.

End-of-service pay

After completing one year of service, a domestic worker is entitled to end-of-service pay of at least three weeks’ basic wage for each year worked.

Health, dignity and documents

• The employer provides medical care free of charge to the worker
• The worker must be treated with dignity and protected from harm
• Recruitment costs must not be deducted from the worker’s wages
• Identity documents such as the passport belong to the worker

Changing employer and leaving Qatar

Reforms introduced in 2020 removed the need for an employer’s no-objection certificate to change jobs, subject to notice rules, and removed exit permits for domestic workers. Workers can leave Qatar without asking their employer’s permission.

Age requirements

The law sets an age range of 18 to 60 years for domestic workers.

Why this matters when you hire

Clear, lawful terms lead to better working relationships and fewer disputes. When you recruit through Vertex Manpower, we explain these requirements, prepare the contract with you and make sure the role you describe is realistic within the law.

This article is a summary for general information and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations change, so always confirm current requirements with the Ministry of Labour or a qualified adviser.