Finding a job in Qatar
Finding a job in Qatar is an excellent opportunity, as the country's economy is rapidly expanding. If you do it correctly, you could be in for an exciting international experience as well as a high-paying job. This guide explains everything you need to know.
Before looking for work in Qatar, there are a few things you should know. This guide will walk you through the job search process and what to expect in Qatar:
Working in Qatar
Finding a job in Qatar necessitates a basic understanding of the country's job market as well as Qatari work culture. Here are a few things you should know before you begin your search.
- Work requirements in Qatar
- How to Get a Job in Qatar
- Applying for a job in Qatar
- Beginning a career in Qatar
Qatar's Job market
Qatar currently has a 0.1 percent unemployment rate. This is due to the abundance of available jobs, and anyone looking for work in the country has a good chance of finding work. The economy is rapidly expanding, with the country's GDP.
The country's largest industry is oil and gas. As a result, if you want to work in Qatar, this is the best industry to be in. Manufacturing, finance, insurance, and real estate are all large industries. Similarly, building and construction are two of the most important industries in Qatar in terms of employment. This is especially true in the run-up to the FIFA World Cup in 2022, which held in Qatar.
FIFA World Cup in 2022, which held in Qatar. Many large multinational corporations have offices in Qatar. Shell, Exxon Mobil, BNP Paribas, HSBC, Vodafone, Parsons International, KEO International Consultants. and Standard Chartered are among them. However, there are many large local corporations as well. These companies include Qatar Energy, Woqod, Qatar Steel, Qatar National Bank (QNB), Ezdan Holding Group, Ooredoo, QIC, UDC, GWC, Baladna, QAMCO, Nakilat and Msheireb
Qatar job openings
Qatar's construction industry is currently thriving as the country prepares to host the 2022 World Cup. There are also numerous projects centered on Qatar's 2030 vision deadlines. As a result, there is a high demand for laborers in the country. Hospitality and tourism are two other industries with significant growth potential. As a result, if you're looking for work in Qatar, these are two excellent options. The government is attempting to promote these as an alternative source of income in order to reduce the country's reliance on oil. As a result, it invested billions in new infrastructure projects to support this. Hotels and restaurants are always looking for new employees, so look to them for opportunities.
Salaries in Qatar
In March 2021, Qatar introduced a minimum wage of QAR 1,000, which applies to all employees across all sectors in Qatar, including domestic workers. The employer must additionally provide QAR 500 per month for accommodation and QAR 300 per month for food unless provided by their employer. Despite this, salaries in the country are high, which is the main draw for expats looking for work there. In Qatar, the average monthly salary is around QAR13,000/month. However, these can vary greatly. Salaries can range between QAR1,200 and QAR90,000 per month. The following are some average expat salaries for various jobs:
- CEO of a multinational company: QAR121,322–QAR156,635/month
- Human Resources Manager: QAR34,752–QAR45,868/month
- IT Manager: QAR43,436–QAR57,287/month
- Event Manager: QAR18,377–QAR29,130/month
- Lawyer: QAR34,245–QAR44,172/month
- GP Doctor: QAR33,972–QAR42,966/month
- Bank Branch Manager: QAR29,468–QAR47,867/month
- PR Manager: QAR27,164–QAR36,547/month
Qatar's work culture
Because there are so many expats in Qatar, the work culture incorporates a wide range of styles and attitudes from around the world. This international environment can be both exciting and tolerant in some ways. However, because Qatar is a Muslim country, you can expect a more conservative working environment. Another aspect to be aware of is that the workplace culture is very hierarchical and patriarchal.
There are also regional peculiarities to be aware of. Personal relationships, for example, are crucial in business in Qatar. As a result, you will need to establish rapport with your coworkers and business associates. Furthermore, while English is the primary business language, knowing a little Arabic can go a long way. It is worth noting that punctuality is not valued in Qatar, and you should expect a relaxed attitude toward timekeeping.
Qatar labor laws and labor rights
Qatar has a number of labor laws in place to protect employees. You should be aware of these before starting your job search in Qatar. You should be aware of the following employee rights:
- Employees should not work more than six days per week or for more than ten hours per day. Furthermore, you should be paid for overtime after eight hours;
- if a company fires an employee before the end of the contract, they must pay an End of Service Benefit. This, however, only applies if the termination was without cause.
- Companies are required to provide private health insurance to foreign employees;
- Employees are compensated at the end of their contract, employees receive indemnity pay. This is typically 15-20 days' salary over the first three years, followed by a month's salary each year after that;
- Most employees are entitled to three or four weeks' annual leave. Employees are also entitled to up to two weeks of paid sick leave.
In addition to the above, many foreigners receive additional benefits. These differ according to the contract. They may, however, include the following:
- Return flights to your home country;
- Allowance for housing;
- Children's education;
- The company car.
Work requirements in Qatar
There are several hoops you must first jump through if you want to work in Qatar. However, these aren't particularly difficult, so you shouldn't have too many problems.
Qatar work visas
All foreigners seeking employment in Qatar must obtain a residency permit. This, however, is only available if an employer sponsors you. In most cases, the company will obtain a temporary visa for you to enter the country and then complete the necessary formalities once you arrive.
Once you've found a job that will sponsor you, they'll need to handle all of the paperwork to get you a residency permit. If you were offered a job before entering the country, your employer must convert your temporary visa into a residence permit within two to four weeks.
These residency permits also allow you to bring your family to Qatar. Your employer, however, must renew them each year.
Language requirements for employment in Qatar
English is required for most jobs in Qatar. This is the primary business language in the country. However, some knowledge of the Arabic language is also beneficial.
Qualifications for employment in Qatar
Most Qatari employers will expect you to have a university degree. However, if you work in a specialized field, you may need professional credentials. Lawyers, doctors, Engineers and teachers, for example, must all demonstrate specific qualifications related to their jobs.
The Ministry of External Affairs must notarize all qualifications. Your degrees must also be attested by the Qatar Embassy in your country. You will also be required to submit a detailed letter from your university or board confirming your qualifications.
Qatar tax and social security numbers
In Qatar, there is no personal tax. As a result, you will not need a tax ID to work there. Similarly, because foreigners are not allowed to participate in local pension plans, you will not have a social security number.
Other work requirements in Qatar
In addition to all of the above, there are a few additional requirements for working in Qatar. For example, you will be required to undergo a medical examination. A criminal record check may also be required in some cases. This is especially true for government jobs and licensed professions.
How to Get a Job in Qatar
Now that you know what it takes to work in Qatar, you should start looking for work. Finding work in Qatar is similar to finding work in other countries. Online resources will be essential in your job search, so make use of them.
Qatari recruitment agencies
If you already have a few years of work experience, using a recruitment agency to find a job in Qatar may be easier. There are numerous in the country, ranging from small local businesses to large international organizations.
Qatar Job Fairs and Networking
Finding a job in Qatar, like anywhere else in the world, is easier if you are well-connected. As a result, it is critical to establish a solid network. You can accomplish this by attending job fairs and networking events throughout the country. Many Qatari recruitment agencies and universities host these, so keep an eye on their websites to find one that works for you.
Job postings in Qatari newspapers
Surprisingly, newspapers can be a good source of job opportunities in Qatar. Check out the classifieds in the Gulf Times and Qatar Tribune, for example.
Looking for work on the internet
Finding a job in Qatar in the twenty-first century, like in any other country, frequently revolves around the internet. As a result, it is critical to create a strong LinkedIn profile and research available jobs on the platform. You can also look at online job boards. Furthermore, if you have an idea of which companies you want to work for, you can go directly to their career pages. All of the major oil companies, banks, and hotel chains post job openings directly on their websites, so keep an eye out for these.
Applying for a job in Qatar
Finding work in Qatar can be difficult. However, once you've identified some opportunities that interest you, you can begin the application process. In general, this is comparable to what you will find elsewhere in the world. You will submit a curriculum vitae and a cover letter. Following that, you may have a phone interview, followed by an in-person interview. If you are successful, you may receive a job offer and must negotiate the terms of your contract. The entire process takes about four weeks on average, but it can take up to two months.
You must prepare your CV before beginning your job search in Qatar. This will not be noticeably different from how a CV appears elsewhere. You must include your contact information at the top, including your email and phone number. Following that, describe your professional experience and education. Because Qatar is such an international environment, language skills are essential, so make certain you emphasize these. It can also help to show some personality by including your interests. Most importantly, your CV should be clear and concise. You must also submit a cover letter with your application.
One thing to keep in mind is that you will need to properly prepare for an interview. You should be culturally aware and dress and act appropriately. It can also be beneficial to conduct some research on the company and its operations in Qatar.
Beginning a career in Qatar
When you have finally found your dream job in Qatar, you must prepare for it. Make sure you and your employer are on the same page about your work visa, and don't forget to get any necessary criminal background checks or health screenings. Within your first few days, make certain that you sign all necessary paperwork and that your company sets up your private health insurance.