The step taken by Qatar yesterday to allow every expatriate worker including domestic workers leave without an exit permit is a significant step and this will bring in some of the changes the authorities had said it will implement over time.
The move has won praise from many international bodies including International Labour Organisation, who welcomed the move as a ‘milestone’ and said that "the removal of exit permits is an important milestone in the government’s labour reform agenda.”
Last year Qatar had removed exit permit requirement for a large number of workers in the private sector and with today’s announcement the whole expatriate workforce will be covered excluding the Qatar Armed Forces.
This is very important announcement as it also exempts domestic workers, who are not covered by the Labour Law, from exit permits. They can leave the country without exit permit after notifying their employer at least 72 hours prior to their departure. Over the last few years, Qatar has been bringing in many drastic changes to its Labour Law.
This has substantially raised Doha’s standing in the region when it comes to worker’s welfare and aligns the country with international standards and practices. Doha has been bringing in reforms, which are making lives better for all workers, especially those working on 2022 FIFA World Cup. With the new announcement in addition to the sectors, which were already exempted from exit permits, categories like ministries and other government entities and public institutions, oil and gas companies, maritime companies, agricultural companies and all other types of temporary work are covered.
This decision will support Qatari companies by enhancing the global competitiveness and ensuring their conformity with international labour regulations and international best practices.
The country has taken many steps in consultation with international organisations that the labour market has seen many positive developments. These reforms also help attract people from more countries, thus making the workforce diverse and efficient.
These reforms, which are comparable to international standards, also attracts international companies to come and set up office here as it becomes easier and transparent to operate in an environment where the laws ensure the rights of everyone involved – employer and employee. Workers who know that their rights are protected will be more productive and this in turn will help the companies to become more efficient. Qatar has always led the way in the region when it comes to human rights and worker rights
