2026 brought two major changes for employers in Qatar: Law No. 9 of 2026, which amends the Labour Law, and Minister of Labour Decision No. 50 of 2026, which tightens the Wage Protection System (WPS). This guide explains what changed and what your business should do now.
1. New WPS deadline: 7 days to pay. Decision No. 50 of 2026 took effect on 8 September 2026. Monthly wages are now due on the 1st of each month and must reach workers' accounts through the WPS within 7 days of that date. For workers on other pay cycles, wages are due on the first day of each two-week period.
2. Tougher penalties for WPS breaches. Under Law No. 9 of 2026, the maximum prison term for WPS violations rises from one month to one year. The Ministry of Labour can suspend a non-compliant employer's transactions, extend this to related companies for repeat cases, and publish the names of repeat violators. Affected workers may also move to another employer or end their contract.
3. Joint committees for 100+ employees. Establishments with 100 or more employees must now form a joint committee with equal employer and employee representation. Previously, these committees were optional for companies with 30 or more employees.
4. Non-compete clauses of up to 2 years. The maximum non-compete period increases from one year to two years. The clause needs Ministry of Labour approval to be enforceable, and it is void if employment ends during probation.
5. A formal strike framework. A strike is allowed only when the employer breaches its obligations and settlement has failed. It needs approval from three-quarters of the general committee, two weeks' written notice to the employer and the Ministry, and Ministry approval. Strikes are limited to 6 working days, are treated as unpaid leave, and are not allowed in vital facilities such as oil and gas, power, water, ports, airports, hospitals and transport.
6. Vocational certificates for certain trades. Workers in designated technical and craft occupations must hold a Ministry-accredited training certificate before they start work. The list of occupations is published on the Ministry of Labour website.
7. Other changes. Part-time and freelance workers are now excluded from the Labour Law, the Labour Dispute Committee can hold hearings online, and the Ministry has wider powers to penalise recruitment offices. The amended law took effect on 25 July 2026.
Employer checklist. Set your payroll so wages are transferred by the 7th of each month. Confirm your WPS bank account and Ministry portal access are active. Review non-compete clauses and obtain Ministry approval where needed. Form a joint committee if you have 100 or more employees. Check that workers in designated trades hold the required certificates.
How WTS can help. Wings Technical Services supplies fully documented, WPS-registered manpower and manages payroll, WPS files and PRO services for clients across Qatar. Call +974 4436 0837 or email sales@wtsqatar.org to review your workforce compliance.
This article is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, please consult a qualified legal adviser.
