The Peninsula, 12 July 2026: The Ministry of Labour has outlined key amendments under Qatar Law No. 9/2026, Amending some provisions of the Labour Law promulgated by Qatar Law No. 14/2004, introducing professional licensing requirements, legal recognition of part‑time and freelance work, and updated non‑compete provisions.
Assistant Director of the Labour Relations Department, Yousuf Ali Abdulnour, explained that employers may now require workers in certain professions to obtain professional licences, approved training certificates and pass recognised competency tests before practising. Accredited training centres, including authorised private institutions, will be announced by the ministry.
The amendments establish mandatory training and professional assessments for entry into selected occupations, aiming to improve workforce competency, enhance service quality and strengthen safety across sectors.
For the first time, the law provides a legal basis for regulating part‑time and freelance work. Specific contract templates will be introduced to protect the rights of both parties and reduce disputes. Regulatory decisions will follow to create clear frameworks for these employment models, supporting flexibility and developments in the platform economy.
The law also extends the maximum duration of non‑compete agreements from one year to two years, subject to approval from the competent department at the Ministry of Labour. Non‑compete clauses must be incorporated through an approved contract addendum before becoming enforceable.
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