Country guide
Qatar
A civil-law system with Sharia as a main source of legislation. The Qatar Financial Centre has its own common-law court.
General information — last reviewed 20 October 2026 — to be reviewed by a licensed lawyer. Not legal advice.
Courts
- Courts of First Instance, Appeal and Cassation
- Family courts
- Labour Dispute Settlement Committees
- QFC Civil and Commercial Court
How matters are filed
- Labour complaints go to the Ministry of Labour, then to the Labour Dispute Settlement Committees.
- Other claims are filed at the Supreme Judiciary Council’s courts, in Arabic.
Practice areas
Labour & Employment
Labour Law No. 14 of 2004 (as amended)
Covers contracts, wages, leave and end-of-service gratuity. Recent reforms introduced a minimum wage and easier job changes.
Tenancy & Real Estate
Leases are registered and disputes heard by the Rental Disputes Settlement Committee.
Family & Personal Status
Family matters are governed by Qatar’s family law and heard by the family courts.
Corporate & Commercial
Companies are registered with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, or set up in the QFC or a free zone.
Immigration & Golden Visa
Entry, exit and residence are regulated by the Ministry of Interior.
Criminal Defence
Offences are investigated by the Public Prosecution and tried under the penal code.
Debt, Banking & Insolvency
Debts are pursued through civil claims and execution; cheque cases may be civil or criminal.
FAQs
Which law governs private-sector employment in Qatar?
Labour Law No. 14 of 2004, as amended.
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