11 Easy Ways To File Labour Complaint in Qatar (2024)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 15 February 2024.

Nearly two million expatriates from around the world are working in Qatar, building the infrastructure and providing the services behind the country’s rapid economic expansion. Even with strict regulations in place, there are some private employers who do not pay salaries on time or provide the necessary facilities to their employees.

The Government of Qatar has established several support centres and helplines to protect such vulnerable employees. This article explains the different ways in which an employee can lodge an official labour complaint against his/her employer.

What To Do If Your Employer Is Not Paying Your Salary?

Qatar Government places the utmost importance on strengthening the rights of its guest workers and ensuring that all companies respect these rights and adhere to Qatar’s labour laws.

The Wage Protection System (WPS) has been established to ensure that workers’ wages are paid on time, and those wage arrears are systematically settled.

According to Labor Law No. 14 of 2014 and the accompanying Ministerial resolution, salaries should be paid up within a maximum of seven (7) days from the due date.

If an employer does not transfer payments using the WPS within seven days of their due date, the Minister can suspend the issuance of new work permits to the employer and/or suspend all dealings with the Ministry. This is subject to suspension, not including the authentication of any job contracts.

How To File A Labour Complaint Against Employer

An employee who does not receive his salary on time can make an official complaint to the Ministry of Labour (formerly known as MADLSA) through various channels explained below and the Ministry will process it in due time.

1. Labour Complaint Through Unified Platform for Complaints and Whistleblowers

This Unified Platform for Complaints and Whistleblowers platform, was launched in mid-2021 to help employees file complaints.

Through the platform, the user can file a complaint, report a violation, follow up on complaints, and review his personal data registered in the Ministry’s database. He can also update his contact data from a mobile number and an email.

The steps to submit a labour complaint on the Ministry of Labour Complaints Portal is as below:

  1. Go to Ministry of Labour Complaints and Whistleblower Portal
  2. Click on “Submit A Complaint (Login As Individual)”
  3. On the next page, you can log in using your QID / Visa Number + Mobile Number
  4. Click on “Request OTP”
  5. Enter the OTP you received on your mobile and proceed as instructed
ADLSA Complaints-and Whistleblower Portal

Another option is to log in using your National Authentication System (NAS) username and password. Either way, you will be redirected to the same page.

The concerned department will review the complaints and disputes after receiving them and will communicate with the complainant through SMS and e-mail.

The complaint can be against entities subject to the provisions of Qatar Labor Law No. 14 of 2004 and the Domestic Workers Law promulgated by Law No. 15 of 2017 or the entities that the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs regulate Its business.

You can also use this portal to raise a complaint as a whistleblower (third party complaint).

2. Labour Complaint By SMS To Ministry of Labour Hotline Number

Qatar’s Ministry of Labour has an SMS service launched to communicate with workers about their problems. The hotline is available 24 hours and in several languages.

The steps to submit a labour complaint as SMS on the Ministry of Labour Hotline Number 92727 is as below:

  1. Open your phone’s text message (SMS) option
  2. Type 5 then Qatar ID Number or Visa Number
  3. Send the SMS to 92727
Ministry of Labour Qatar Labour Complaint SMS Hotline
Image Source: MADSLA

This procedure enables workers who would not be able to go directly to the Ministry, to submit their complaints while ensuring that the confidentiality of those complaints is maintained.

3. Labour Complaint By Calling Ministry of Labour Hotline Number

Workers can call the Ministry of Labour Hotline number 16008 to raise a complaint.

To report violations regarding workers’ accommodation conditions, one should call on 40280660.

4. Labour Complaint By Sending E-mail

Another option is to send an e-mail to the Ministry of Labour: [email protected]

5. Labour Complaint Through Amerni Mobile App

2023 Update: The Amerni mobile app is currently not working.

Workers can also submit their complaints online via the “Amerni Qatar” application for smartphones, which provides electronic services in 33 languages.

The steps to submit a labour complaint on Amerni Mobile App is as below:

  1. Download and Install the “Amerni Qatar” app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
  2. Log in using your Tawtheeq (NAS) account
  3. Complete the initial setup (Read the Amerni Mobile App User Guide)
  4. On the home page, click on the “Submit Labour Complaint” icon
  5. Select the language and enter the complaint details
Labour Complaint Through Amerni Mobile App

The Amerni Mobile App also has a separate “Domestic Worker Complaint” option.

Related: How to Create Tawtheeq Qatar Account

6. Labour Complaint Through Minstry’s Self-service Kiosks

Workers can also submit their complaints anonymously through Minstry’s self-service kiosks around Qatar. These kiosks offer services in 10 languages, including Arabic, English, Nepalese, Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, Tamil etc.

ADLSA Self Service Kiosk for Labour Complaint

A worker can lodge his complaint in his native language in a simple form requiring three steps. He can then take a printout of the complaint with all relevant data and submit it to the labour affairs department, where the dispute will be resolved amicably.

7. Labour Complaint Through Ministry of Labour Offices

Instead of going directly to Labour Court, nowadays, workers have to approach the Ministry of Labour offices, where there is a section to register such complaints.

  • Workers can visit the Labour Department Offices in Industrial Area (location map) and Al-Shahaniya (location map) to raise a complaint in person.
  • The Labour Office’s operating hours are Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

Below are the steps to make a direct complaint with the Ministry of Labour office:

  • Note down the full name of the company and location
  • Get the contact number of the company’s manager or the number of Mandoob
  • Take a copy of your Passport and Qatar ID
  • Go to the Labour Department office
  • On reaching the office, fill up the complaint form
  • Submit the form to the labour inspector
  • Explain your complaint and provide any documents if you got

After investigating the complaint, the Labour Department will try its best to resolve the issue without referring it to court. The Department will contact the employer and request proof and documents if necessary. The case will be referred to Labour Court if a resolution cannot be reached.

8. Labour Complaint Through Ministry Website Form

Employees can also submit their complaints and suggestions using the contact form on the Ministry of Labour website.

The steps to submit a labour complaint on the Ministry of Labour website is as below:

  1. Go to the Complaints Page on the Ministry of Labour Website.
  2. Choose the type as “Suggestion” or “Query”.
  3. Enter your name, e-mail, phone number and Qatar ID number.
  4. Provide the details of your complaint in description box.
  5. Click on “Submit”.
Qatar Ministry of Labour Complaints Page
Qatar Ministry of Labour Complaints Page

How to A Submit Labour Complaint to NHRC

Another option is to complain to the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC).

NHRC is established for the protection and promotion of human rights for everyone, subject to the jurisdiction of the State of Qatar (citizens, residents, and transit travellers). Those who feel their rights are violated may file a complaint to the NHRC to take necessary action.

You can make a complaint to NHRC using the below options:

1. Labour Complaint Through NHRC Website

  • Step 1: Go to NHRC Website’s Complaint Form Page
  • Step 2: If you don’t have an account click on “Create Account”
  • Step 3: Register with details like Name, QID/Passport, Phone Number, E-mail etc.
  • Step 4: Once registration is completed, login to submit the complaint form
File Labour Complaint Through NHRC Website

2. Labour Complaint Through NHRC E-mail or Fax

A worker can also send the complaint form to NHRC via e-mail or fax. Here are the steps:

  • Step 1: Download the Complaint Form from the NHRC website
  • Step 2: Take a printout of the form
  • Step 3: Complete the form with contact information
  • Step 4: Attach a copy of your ID card (for Qataris) and a copy of your passport or visa (for non-Qataris)
  • Step 5: Attach any related documents to support your complaint
  • Step 6: Send your complaint via fax or e-mail address
NHRC Telephone:00974-44048844, 50000313, 60073333
NHRC Hotline8002222
NHRC E-mail:[email protected]
NHRC Fax:00974-44444013

3. Labour Complaint Through NHRC Office

Workers can visit the office of the National Human Rights Commission directly to submit the printed complaint form, document copies and any supporting document (as explained in the previous option).

NHRC Office is located in Fereej Abdulaziz (Nasser Bin Khalid intersection, Behind Doha Petrol Station, Otabi Tower) Here is the NHRC Location Map.


How To Check The Status Of A Labour Complaint?

Once you have made a complaint and received the reference number, you can check the status on the Ministry of Labour website or the Amerni mobile app.

Option 1: Checking The Status On Ministry Website

Below are the steps to check the labour complaint status on the Ministry website

  • Step 1: Go to the Ministry of Labour website complaint status page
  • Step 2: Enter the establishment registration number (field 1)
  • Step 3: Enter the complaint number (field 2)
  • Step 4: Select the year from the drop-down menu
  • Step 5: Press the “Submit” button
Check the Status of Labour Complaint in Qatar
This webpage is currently available in Arabic only.

Option 2: Checking The Status on Amerni Mobile App

You can also check the status of your labour complaint using the Amerni mobile app.

  • Step 1: Open the Amerni mobile app
  • Step 2: Sign in using Tawtheeq (NAS) username and password
  • Step 3: Select “Individual”
  • Step 4: Click on “Labour Complaint Follow-up”
  • Step 5: Select the year
  • Step 6: Follow the instructions

Labour Dispute Settlement Committees

Qatar has established Labour Dispute Settlement Committees to improve workers’ access to justice.

When a dispute arises, workers and employers first present the dispute to the Labour Ministry, which will take the necessary measures to resolve the issue amicably and examine the dispute raised within a period not exceeding seven days.

When a complaint is raised to the Labour Dispute Settlement Committee, the Committee arbitrates all disputes and its decision is issued with immediate enforcement within a period that does not exceed three weeks.

Complaints can also be raised through workers’ representatives who meet regularity with Ministry of Labour.


How The Labour Dispute Resolution System Works

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

Labour Dispute Settlement Process Scenario-1

Step 1 – Start Process

  • Lodge a complaint at Ministry of Labour – while you are still employed or not later than one year after the end of the employment relationship.

Step 2 – Ministry of Labour Meeting

  • Ministry invites parties to a meeting to seek resolution. To prepare yourself:
  • 1. Bring proof to support your complaint.
  • 2. Be ready to discuss your complaint.
  • 3. Calculate how much your losses are.

If the issue is unresolved: You can ask for your complaint to go to the Dispute Settlement Committee (DSC) for a legal hearing if your complaint is not resolved.

Step 3 – DSC Hearing

  • DSC is a court of law – it will consider the evidence of both parties. To prepare yourself:
  • 1. Bring proof to support the complaint.
  • 2. Prepare a calculation of your losses in Arabic.
  • 3. Be ready to answer questions from the DSC.

Outcome: DSC issues a legal decision. If not appealed a­fter 15 days, DSC’s decision is final.


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

Labour Dispute Settlement Process Scenario 2

Step 1 – Start Process

  • Send a written grievance to your employer (keep a copy) – within seven days of being notified of the disciplinary penalty.

Step 2 – Employer’s Response

  • The employer has seven days to respond.

If the issue is unresolved: If you are unhappy or the employer does not respond, you can complain to the Ministry within the next seven days.

Step 3 – Ministry of Labour

  • Ministry decides if the disciplinary penalty is fair.
  • For non-dismissal penalties, the Ministry’s decision is final.
  • For dismissal penalties, if the Ministry says dismissal is fair, the worker can request a legal hearing.

Step 4 – Dismissal Cases Only – Legal Hearing

  • The matter goes to Dispute Settlement Committee (DSC). See Step 3 in Scenario 1.

NOTE: How the Ministry will deal with a worker’s complaint regarding the disciplinary actions taken by the employer depends on whether these are: Non-dismissal penalties (warnings; wage deductions; suspension and delaying promotion/wage rises) or Dismissal from employment.


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

Labour Dispute Settlement Process Scenario 3

Step 1: Lodge complaint at the Ministry of Labour – within 7 days of notification of deduction.

Step 2: Ministry of Labour will decide to either cancel, reduce or agree with the deduction. Ministry of Labour’s decision is final.


Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund

Qatar has also established a Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund which will ensure and provide care for workers, guarantee their rights and provide a healthy and safe working environment.

The fund’s purpose is to secure workers’ financial payments awarded by Labour Dispute Settlement Committees when a company becomes insolvent and cannot pay workers.

Changing Employer After Labour Complaint

If the Labour Department or Labour Court finds that the employer has defaulted in paying the salary, they would be ordered to settle the salary within a specified time period. If the worker wishes to resign from the company and move to another employer, the Labour Department would also assist.

You can also report complaints like visa trading and residence law violation through the “Search and Follow-up” function on Metrash App.

Always remember, you have your legal rights, and the Qatar government is there to help. So stand up and speak for your rights.

READ NEXT: How to Change Job in Qatar Without NOC


FAQ on Labour Complaints in Qatar


What can I do if my salary is not paid?

If your salary is not paid on time or your employer mistreats you, you can file an official complaint with Qatar’s Ministry of Labour.

How can I complain to Labour in Qatar?

An employee can complain to the Ministry of Labour through various channels like calling the hotline number, SMS, e-mail, website, Amerni mobile app, Kiosks etc.

Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?

No, in most cases, employees can directly contact Qatar’s Ministry of Labour to file a complaint without using a lawyer.

Will I be deported if I file a complaint against my employer?

If you secure a new job offer during the period of dispute, Qatar’s Labour Department will help you to change employer.

Is my employer allowed to keep my passport?

No, employers in Qatar are not allowed to keep the passport of an employee unless for official requirements like visa procedure, renewal etc.


Related Posts:

  1. How To Calculate End of Service Gratuity
  2. Qatar Labour Law: Important Points To Know
  3. Search and Follow-up on Metrash App
  4. Minimum Wage in Qatar: Everything You Need To Know
  5. Wage Protection System WPS Qatar
  6. Qatar Freelance Visa: Important Things To Know

Copyright © DohaGuides.com – Full or partial reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited.

Images Courtesy: Ministry of Labour


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  1. Hi
    My names is Lubwama Ronald from Uganda if the company terminate you how long to some one stay in the country because it now taking three weeks am working and am caring for my self and they told me to stop working am a security guard

  2. Annabelle Manuel

    Hi Good Day, I will go back to my country this August 20,2021 but my Employer still not give my end of service gratuity for working 3years and 10 months. I already raise complaint to ministry of labour but still dont have update. And I also asked my employer to transfer of Sponsorship but they not allow me. I want to change employer before I travel what should I do? I really appreciate your help. Thank you and God bless you.

  3. Hello
    My name is Barham I have been here for four months now but the company am working with hasn’t minded about doing medical, that means no Qatar ID no medical insurance and like no salary they have just been promising. They held out passports no job change. Any help is highly welcomed
    Thanks very much.
    N.B we actually haven’t signed the contract.

  4. its been 8months now on my complain, i called, emails, thru apps, go there directly but they all always saying wait wait i dont know what is the process here in qatar for the complaint.

  5. My name is Abdul Shafi,
    I have got a new job offer from new employer, but my current employer refused me to give NOac as I am locally hired.
    They are threatening me that, they will cancel my QID.

    Suggest me!!!!

  6. The complaint I have with my employer rather contractor is
    Failing to respond to our health when we get sick
    Sometimes forced to work even when we are sick
    Failure to work they deduct two days payment from your salary
    Majority of the workers here have backche problems
    Instead they just force us to work
    Very soon I want to change employer but failing where to start from

  7. I have finished three yrs and half with the same Employer. He already agreed to search for anew job. The problem theyclaim for 8k from the new employer so that to sigh for NOC. of which will be deducted from my salary. And aready ihave offer letter. What can ido?

  8. I came to india for 1month vacation in feb 2020 and had return ticket on 12th march 2020,but couldn’t go back due to pandemic, my QID expiry date was 27.05.20,after repeated follow up with my sponsor,he sent me expectional entry permit on 25.11.20 which was expiring on 30.11.20 under his misguidance I had no idea what to do exactly and neither did he guide me properly in a short time.He said he will renew in dec 2020 but nothing sent and he stopped receiving my call and reply my email/sms till date.I received Job offer letter from different company from Qatar in April 2021,due to his ignorance on the requested NOC,I approached Indian embassy in Qatar and they have sent letter to the qatar ministry in April 2021 till date no reply and then reminder letter in june 2021.
    What should I do now to get rid of my present sponsor above all my luggages of 6 cardboard box is in Qatar which is out off my room due to baldiya checking and same notified to my sponsor, till date no action from him.
    Pls guide me how to take this forward.

  9. In January 2010 I was promoted with a thank you letter coming from HR Department and signed by our training manager it is also stated that my base salary is 2000 Qatari Riyals but it never happened they actually divide it to allowances and my basic salary is still 1000 riyals? Can I file a complaint against my employer to get the money I’m supposed to be getting base on my salary? 2018 I was promoted again company has given me monthly incentives of a 1000 riyals which lasted for more than 2 years now for 2 months my employer stopped the incentives while I am doing my task and responsibilities for the whole 2 months, if it’s base on performance I never had a poor performance instead I’m getting satisfactory and highly satisfactory and without notice he demoted me to the lowest position .. what should I do ? Thank you!

  10. Our company al mana ventures took all tha passports of the mployees.and harrassing us that if we will not give our passport they will terminate our contract and send us home.

  11. NASEER MOHAMMED

    I had completed my employment contract with Prev employer and submitted online sponsorship change application, earlier I received approval but due to some issues with company I canceled and applied in better company but my application got rejected, how can I know the reason of rejected and how to follow up for approval, i have offer letter and company is intrested to hire me and support me for my employment.

  12. I have working since 2019 Dec, but still don’t have medical card. In every month company not giving salary in proper time always it delays. They make bank account but they giving cash to our hand without any document. Always delays. If we ask when salary come they always telling tomorrow. Some guys don’t have QID and some guys with expired QID. Company always telling fairy tales. What we do now need some help immediately please. This is the worst company in qatar. So sad

  13. Eduardo A> Rieza

    Sir just only an inquiry. If in case workers already completed at least 15 years of working in Qatar, as I read on Qatar Labour Act No.3 of 1962, Section :24 Compensation calculated as follows: option a,b,c,d. In option c.
    it is stated: The base wage plus a cost of living allowance, if any of the five weeks for each year of the next following ten years of continuous service. Meaning after ten years of service workers can have his five weeks gratuity per year. Now if the company want only to give the workers 21 days per year of service..What shall we do as a worker?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Dear Eduardo, Now this article has been replaced by the new law:
      “In accordance with Article 54 of the Labour Law (Law No. 14 of 2004), for each year of employment, you are eligible for a minimum of three weeks basic salary as the end-of-service gratuity.”
      Your company is only obliged to pay you a minimum gratuity of 21 days per year (in spite of the number of years worked).

      1. Annabelle Manuel

        Hi Good Day, im working for 3 years and 10 months as babysitter. I did not go vacation because I extended my contract but they not give the refund of my ticket. And this August 20,2021 im going back to my country and im asking for my end of service payment but my employer is not willing to give that. Im asking for help the get my end of service payment. Thank you and God bless you.

  14. Narendra Kumar Shakya

    Hi Sir
    I had come for 20 days emergency holidays in Nepal in 15 March 2020. Due to COVID issue could not return to Qatar. Even company didn’t sent special return paper. He forced me to resign and I resigned in 8 December 2020. He promised me to send leave salary and gratuity but not sent upto now. Only he promises but doesn’t pay. I am a doctor and worked 11 yrs and 10 months leave salary. Please advice kindly.

    1. Annabelle Manuel

      Hi Good Day, I will go back to my country this August 20,2021 but my Employer still not give my end of service gratuity for working 3years and 10 months. I already raise complaint to ministry of labour but still dont have update. And I also asked my employer to transfer of Sponsorship but they not allow me. I want to change employer before I travel what should I do? I really appreciate your help. Thank you and God bless you.

  15. I made a complaint to the “Labor Dept.” Date: 2020.12.29 at least looking forward to claim my unpaid remunerations. Now that the holy month of Ramadan . After will go on a slow phase at the labor dept. and it may take even longer period???

  16. Nabawanuka Florence

    Am Nabawanuka Florence I request for help I want to change employer and claiming for my ten(10) months salary.i have worked for 1year and five months in the saloon .Hareem al sultan.my sponsor send mi amessage to look for anew employer on Thursday before lockdown then I tried to look for the company to get in ajob .then she needs to be compaseted with 10,000 qr

  17. mohammed musharrat ali

    dear sir im mohammed musharat ali i have been working with structurel qater last 3 yers as a mechanical supervisor i went to india on date for emergency purpose due to my mother died after that until now i cant come back to qater due to this covid 19 issue and also over company holding my 5 months salaries and 3 yers graduati my id number 26735624266 and mobile number for india 00919770050607 please help me

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