Qatar: Equal opportunities

Original and updating author: Frank Lucente, Al Tamimi & Company

See the legal services provided by the author of International > Qatar, including any discounts/offers for subscribers.

Summary

• While employers licensed by the Qatar Financial Centre must not refuse to employ or refuse to continue to employ a person, or discriminate against a person regarding employment or any term or condition of employment, because of certain specified characteristics of that person, in Qatar generally there are no specific laws on equal opportunities or non-discrimination in employment except for limited provisions relating to female employees. (See General)
• While employers licensed by the Qatar Financial Centre must, as far as is reasonably practicable, provide and maintain a workplace that is safe, presents no risks to employees' health and is free of harassment, in Qatar generally there are no specific provisions in employment legislation protecting employees from sexual or other harassment at work. (See Harassment and sexual harassment)
• In the Qatar Financial Centre, there is no specific provision protecting employees from detriment or dismissal on the grounds of complaining of unlawful discrimination, or of witnessing or reporting such discrimination. (See Victimisation)
• In Qatar generally, employment legislation provides for positive discrimination in favour of Qatari nationals, while in the Qatar Financial Centre employers are permitted to discriminate in favour of Qatari nationals. (See Positive action)
• In Qatar generally, if an employee feels discriminated against for any reason, they may be entitled to bring a civil claim for damages on the basis of "moral" grounds, while in the Qatar Financial Centre an employee may bring a claim for damages under the non-discrimination and harassment provisions of the Qatar Financial Centre Employment Regulations. (See Remedies and penalties)