How to File a Labour Complaint in Qatar in 2025: 10 Easy Ways to Protect Your Rights

Qatar is known for its growing economy, with millions of workers from around the world contributing to its development. To ensure fair treatment and protect the rights of employees, the Qatari government has put in place robust labour laws and regulations. However, in situations where an employer fails to uphold these rules, workers have the right to file a labour complaint in Qatar. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of filing a labour complaint in Qatar, providing you with easy and actionable steps to take when your rights are violated.

What Does Qatar Labour Law Say About Employer Violations?

Qatar’s Labour Law is designed to protect workers and ensure fair treatment within the workplace. It outlines the rights of workers and the responsibilities of employers. If an employer fails to meet these standards, employees have the legal right to file a complaint and seek justice.

Some common violations that warrant filing a labour complaint include:

1. Non-Payment of Salary: According to Labour Law No. 14, salaries must be paid within seven days from the due date. If your employer is withholding your wages, this constitutes a violation of the law.
2. Physical or Emotional Abuse: Workers have the right to a safe and respectful working environment. If your employer is physically abusive or subjects you to harassment, this is a serious violation.
3. Unsafe Work Environment: Employers are required to ensure that the work environment is safe for their employees. If continuing your job could jeopardize your health or safety, this is a valid reason for filing a complaint.
4. Breach of Contract: If your employer fails to honor the terms of your employment contract, you may file a complaint to seek a resolution.

Penalties for Employers Violating Labour Laws

Employers found guilty of violating labour laws in Qatar may face severe penalties, including:

• Imprisonment for up to one month.
• Fines ranging from QAR 2,000 to QAR 100,000.

These penalties underscore the seriousness of labour violations in Qatar and emphasize the need for workers to know their rights.

Understanding Qatar Labour Law and Your Rights

Qatar’s labour laws are designed to protect employees in various aspects of their employment. If an employer violates any of these rights, you are within your legal rights to file a complaint. Some of the most common issues covered by the law include:

1. Non-payment of Wages: The employer is obligated to pay salaries within seven days of the due date. If they fail to do so, they could face penalties including having their license revoked.
2. Harassment and Assault: If your employer physically assaults you or engages in any form of harassment, you have the right to terminate your contract immediately and file a complaint.
3. Unlawful Contract Breach: If your employer does not adhere to the terms of the contract, including salary agreements, job responsibilities, or work hours, you have the right to challenge them through the appropriate channels.
4. Unsafe Working Conditions: If continuing to work poses a threat to your health or safety, you can legally terminate your employment and file a complaint.

Platforms to File a Labour Complaint in Qatar

Qatar has established several platforms and services to help employees file a labour complaint against employers who violate their rights. These platforms are designed to be accessible, efficient, and easy to use. Below are the top 10 ways to file a complaint.

1. File a Labour Complaint through the Unified Platform

The Unified Labour Platform was launched to provide a simple, centralized way for workers to file complaints. This platform is designed to handle various issues related to labour rights, such as unpaid wages, contract violations, and unsafe working conditions.

How to File a Complaint via the Unified Platform:

1. Visit the Ministry of Labour Complaints and Whistleblower Portal.
2. Click on “Submit A Complaint (Login As Individual)”.
3. Enter your Qatar ID/Visa Number and Mobile Number, or log in using your National Authentication System (NAS) credentials.
4. Follow the instructions and enter your complaint details.
5. After submission, you will be contacted by the concerned department via SMS and email.
6. This platform also allows third-party complaints (whistleblower reports) to be filed.

This is a simple and effective method for filing a complaint, and you will be kept updated on the status of your case through the platform.

2. Send a Labour Complaint to the Ministry of Labour Hotline

You can file a complaint through the Ministry of Labour’s 24-hour hotline number 92727. This service allows you to file complaints via SMS at any time of the day.

Steps to File via SMS:

1. Open your text message app.
2. Type “5” followed by your Qatar ID or Visa Number.
3. Send the SMS to 92727.

This method allows you to file a complaint at any time, making it highly convenient for workers.

3. Submit a Labour Complaint In-Person

If you prefer face-to-face interaction, you can visit one of the designated Labour Centres in Qatar to file your complaint in person. These centres are open on weekdays and serve different demographics.

Available Centres:

1. Al-Khor (For Men): 7:30 am to 12:30 pm
2. Industrial Area (For Men): 7:30 am to 12:30 pm
3. Al-Huda Tower (For Women): 7:30 am to 2:00 pm

Visit the relevant centre and provide your details to submit a formal complaint.

4. File a Labour Complaint via Amerni App

The Amerni app is another popular method for submitting a labour complaint in Qatar. It supports multiple languages, making it accessible for a wide range of workers.

How to File a Complaint via Amerni App:

• Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Log in using your NAS account.
• Set up the app and select the Submit Complaint option.
• Enter the complaint details, choose your language, and submit the complaint.

5. Labour Complaint by Calling the Ministry of Labour Hotline Number

The Ministry of Labour offers two hotline numbers for complaints:

1. 16008: For general complaints.
2. 40280660: For violations or urgent issues.

Simply call these numbers and provide your complaint details to the Ministry. They will guide you on the next steps.

6. Submit a Labour Complaint through the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC)

The NHRC plays a critical role in ensuring that human rights are protected in Qatar. You can submit complaints to them in person, online, via email, or by fax.

a. Filing a Complaint in Person at the NHRC Office

If you prefer to handle things face-to-face, you can visit the NHRC office to submit your complaint. This is a great option if you need assistance or have important documents to provide.

Steps to file your complaint in person:

1. Go to the NHRC office located at:
   • Fereej Abdulaziz (Near Nasser Bin Khalid intersection, Behind Doha Petrol Station, Otabi Tower)
2. Bring your complaint form (you can download it from the NHRC website) and any documents that can support your case. For example, you might need:
   • Your Qatar ID or Visa
   • Salary slips, contracts, or any messages showing the violation.
3. Hand the form and documents to the NHRC staff. They will guide you through the next steps.

National Human Rights Committee – Google Maps Location

b. Submit Your Complaint Online

If visiting the NHRC office in person isn’t possible, you can easily submit your complaint online through the NHRC website. This method is fast and convenient.

Steps to submit your complaint online:

1. Register on the NHRC website if you don’t have an account.
2. Login with your account information.
3. Fill in the complaint form with your details and provide all required information.
4. Attach evidence to support your claim (such as a copy of your Qatar ID, Visa, or any documents showing the issue).
5. Click Submit to send your complaint to the NHRC.

Once submitted, the NHRC will review your complaint and get in touch with you.

c. File Your Complaint by Email or Fax

Another way to file a complaint is by sending it through email or fax. This is a good option if you can’t visit in person or prefer not to use the online platform.

Steps to file by email or fax:

1. Download the Complaint Form from the NHRC website.
2. Fill out the form with your contact details and the nature of your complaint.
3. Attach your documents:
   • Attach a copy of your Qatar ID, passport or visa.
   • Attach any other documents that show evidence of the issue.
4. Send the completed form by:
   • Email: c@nhrc.org.qa
   • Fax: 00974-44444013

If you need help or have questions, you can also contact the NHRC:

• Phone: 00974-44048844, 50000313, 60073333
• Hotline: 8002222

Once your complaint is submitted, the NHRC will process it and keep you updated.

7. Use Ministry Self-Service Kiosks

Self-service kiosks are available in multiple locations to submit complaints in your preferred language. These kiosks support up to 10 languages, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Nepali, and others.

How to File via Kiosks:

1. Locate a self-service kiosk.
2. Select your language.
3. Complete the complaint form.
4. Submit the form electronically to the Labour Affairs Department.

8. Submit Your Complaint via Your Embassy

If you are facing serious issues, your embassy can act on your behalf and file a labour complaint. They will guide you through the required documentation process and assist in submitting the complaint.

9. Contact the Government via WhatsApp

For quick support, contact the government’s official WhatsApp number +97460060601. Send your complaint details and follow their instructions for assistance.

10. Submit a Labour Complaint Through the Ministry of Labour Website

You can also file a complaint using the Ministry’s official website.

Steps to file a complaint:

1. Visit the Ministry of Labour website.
2. Select the “Complaints” page.
3. Choose whether you want to submit a “Suggestion” or “Query”.
4. Enter your personal details and provide a description of your complaint.
5. Click “Submit” to send your complaint.

11. Submit a Labour Complaint via Email to Ministry of Labour

You can also file a labour complaint by sending an email directly to the Ministry of Labour. To do this:

• Compose an email detailing your complaint.
• Attach any supporting documents (e.g., ID card, evidence of the violation).
• Send the email to info@mol.gov.qa.

This method provides another convenient way to file your complaint from anywhere, ensuring that your issues are reported to the Ministry.

How to Check the Status of Your Labour Complaint in Qatar

Once you’ve filed a labour complaint in Qatar, it’s important to follow up and track the progress of your case. The Qatar Labour Ministry provides accessible ways to check the status of your complaint, so you can stay updated on the resolution process. Below, we’ll explain the step-by-step methods to check the labour complaint status in Qatar, either through the Amerni App or the Ministry of Labour website.

1. Check Labour Complaint Status on the Amerni App

The Amerni App is a popular platform for filing complaints and checking their status. This mobile app provides workers with an easy and efficient way to follow up on the progress of their complaints.

Steps to Check Labour Complaint Status on Amerni App:

1. Open the Amerni App.
2. Sign in using your NAS username and password.
3. Select “Individual”.
4. Click “Labour Complaint Follow-up”.
5. Select the year and follow the instructions to view the complaint status.

2. Check Labour Complaint Status on the Ministry of Labour Website

If you prefer to use a website for tracking the status of your labour complaint in Qatar, the Ministry of Labour’s official website provides a comprehensive portal for this purpose.

Steps to Check Labour Complaint Status on the Ministry of Labour Website:

1. Visit the Ministry of Labour complaint status page.
2. Enter the establishment registration number and complaint number.
3. Select the year and press Submit.

Labour Dispute Settlement Committees: How They Work

The Labour Dispute Settlement Committees are established to ensure that workers have access to justice. When a dispute arises, workers and employers are first required to present their issue to the Ministry of Labour, which will take necessary measures to resolve the matter amicably.

• Initial Resolution by the Ministry of Labour: The Ministry aims to resolve disputes within seven days. If an agreement is reached, the matter is resolved. If not, the worker has the option to escalate the issue to the DSC.
• Escalating to the DSC: If the issue is unresolved at the Ministry level, the complaint is referred to the Labour Dispute Settlement Committee for arbitration. The DSC reviews the case and issues a legally binding decision, which must be enforced immediately. The Committee aims to resolve disputes within three weeks from the complaint submission.
• Workers’ Representatives: Complaints can also be raised through workers’ representatives who regularly meet with the Ministry of Labour to discuss workers’ concerns and help mediate disputes.

Situations in Which Workers May Use the Dispute Resolution System

Scenario 1: I think my employer has breached my contract and/or broke Qatar labour law.

If a worker believes that their employer has violated the terms of their employment contract or has broken Qatari labour laws, they can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour. Here’s the step-by-step process:

• Step 1: Lodge a Complaint: A worker must lodge a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, either while still employed or within one year after the employment ends. The complaint can be about any breach of contract or violation of labour law.
• Step 2: Ministry of Labour Meeting: The Ministry of Labour will invite both the worker and employer to a meeting to attempt an amicable resolution. To prepare for this meeting, the worker should:
  1. Bring proof of the breach (e.g., written contracts, emails, payment records).Be ready to discuss the complaint and provide details.Calculate the losses or damages incurred due to the breach.
  If the issue remains unresolved after the meeting, the worker can request that the case be referred to the Labour Dispute Settlement Committee (DSC) for a formal legal hearing.
• Step 3: DSC Hearing: If the matter is escalated to the DSC, the worker will need to present evidence of the breach. The DSC will review the evidence and listen to both parties. Workers should:
  • Bring all relevant evidence in support of their claim.
  • Prepare a detailed calculation of losses in Arabic (if possible).
  • Be prepared to answer questions from the DSC.

Outcome: The DSC will issue a legal decision based on the case. If the decision is not appealed within 15 days, the decision becomes final.

Scenario 2: I want to challenge my employer’s decision to discipline me.

If an employee wants to challenge a disciplinary action imposed by their employer (e.g., suspension, wage deduction, or dismissal), they can follow this process:

• Step 1: Send a Written Grievance to the Employer
  A worker who has been disciplined must submit a written grievance within seven days of being notified of the disciplinary action. The grievance should explain why the worker believes the penalty is unfair.
• Step 2: Employer’s Response
  The employer has seven days to respond to the grievance. If the employer fails to respond or if the response is unsatisfactory, the worker can escalate the complaint to the Ministry of Labour.
• Step 3: Ministry of Labour Review
  The Ministry will assess whether the disciplinary penalty was fair. If the penalty is non-dismissal (e.g., wage deduction, suspension), the Ministry’s decision is final. If the penalty involves dismissal, the Ministry will decide whether the dismissal was fair. If the Ministry deems the dismissal to be justified, the worker can still request a legal hearing at the Labour Dispute Settlement Committee (DSC).
• Step 4: Dismissal Cases – DSC Hearing
  In cases of dismissal, if the worker is not satisfied with the Ministry’s decision, they can take the case to the DSC for a final legal hearing (similar to Case 1). The DSC will review the evidence and make a legally binding decision.

Scenario 3: My employer has accused me of deliberately causing damage and has or is going to deduct my wages.

In cases where an employer accuses a worker of causing damage to property or equipment and intends to deduct wages as a result, the worker can challenge the wage deduction through the following steps:

• Step 1: Lodge a Complaint at the Ministry of Labour
  The worker must file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour within seven days of being notified of the wage deduction.
• Step 2: Ministry of Labour’s Decision
  The Ministry will review the complaint and decide whether to cancel, reduce, or approve the wage deduction. The Ministry’s decision is final and binding. If the worker disagrees with the Ministry’s decision, there is no further appeal process available for this specific issue.

FAQs: Labour Complaint in Qatar

Conclusion:

Qatar’s labour laws offer a strong legal framework to protect workers and ensure that employers uphold their responsibilities. If you find yourself in a situation where your employer is violating your rights, you can take immediate action by filing a labour complaint in Qatar through one of the many accessible platforms. The government’s various complaint methods, including online portals, hotlines, in-person centers, and apps, make it easier for you to seek justice.

Remember, the Ministry of Labour, the National Human Rights Committee, and other official bodies are there to support you in your efforts to uphold your rights. Don’t hesitate to file a complaint if you face any violations—your voice matters, and the authorities are committed to ensuring fair treatment for all workers in Qatar.