New employment laws offer boost to Qatar public sector staff

The country introduced Law No. 25 of 2025, amending key provisions of the Civil Human Resources Law (Law No. 15 of 2016), as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the Qatari public sector.

Among the changes are a new marriage allowance worth QAR12000 (approx. US$3,300) a year for each Qatari spouse, along with reduced working hours for Qatari mothers during school exam periods in order to improve work-life balance.

Performance-based salary raises of up to 150%, tied to performance metrics, shift the focus for wage increases onto measurable outcomes in public service delivery.

The rules also expand professional certification allowances and better incentives for recruitment and staff retention.

The moves, aimed at creating a more supportive and competitive environment in the public sector, represent a significant evolution for the country’s employment laws said Sarah Khasawneh, a legal expert at Pinsent Masons in Qatar.

“These reforms mark a significant evolution in Qatar’s public employment landscape,”

“By linking compensation and promotion directly to performance, the government is signalling a clear shift toward meritocracy and institutional accountability,” she said.

“The introduction of a marriage allowance and enhanced supervisory bonuses also reflects a broader policy goal of supporting family stability and retaining national talent.”

The new legislation means government entities will need to update their HR policies and performance frameworks to comply, while staff will have a better understanding of how their performance impacts on their promotion and compensation at work.

While the reforms currently apply to public sector entities, their influence is expected to extend further, Khasawneh added.

“For companies operating in Qatar - especially those engaged in both public and private sectors - this development necessitates a reassessment of employment contracts, incentive structures, and HR policies to remain competitive,” she said.