Qatar has announced new sick leave rules that outline the benefits workers are entitled to under the country's labour laws. Employers are required to grant sick leave benefits to workers who have completed at least three months of continuous service. The policy aims to ensure workers receive proper care during illness while maintaining employment stability.
The new guidelines specify that eligible workers can take sick leave for medical reasons, with the duration and compensation depending on the length of their service. Workers with three to five years of service are entitled to 15 days of paid sick leave per year. Those with more than five years of service receive 30 days. The policy also includes provisions for unpaid sick leave in certain circumstances.
This update comes as part of ongoing efforts to improve workplace conditions and align with international labour standards. Qatar has been working to enhance its labour laws in recent years, including reforms to employment contracts and social security benefits. The new sick leave policy is expected to be implemented by the end of the year, with further details to be released by the Ministry of Labour.
The changes reflect a broader trend in the Gulf region to modernize labour regulations and improve worker protections. While the policy is a step forward, some labour rights organizations have called for more transparency in enforcement and greater support for informal sector workers. The government has not yet responded to these calls for additional measures.
