Qatar to grant QAR 12,000 marriage allowance, up to 150% pay raises for top-performing employees under new law

Qatar is taking a bold step to enhance public sector benefits and support family stability. Law No. 25 of 2025, issued by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani , brings major reforms for government employees. The amendments, developed by the Ministry of Administrative Development , Labour, and Social Affairs (MADLSA), are designed to boost morale, encourage excellence, and strengthen family support. The reforms will take effect starting January 1, 2026, giving employees and departments time to prepare for implementation.

QAR 12,000 annual marriage allowance for Qatari couples
One of the standout features of the new law is the introduction of a QAR 12,000 annual marriage allowance for each Qatari spouse. This allowance is designed to support young families and encourage marriage among nationals. Notably, both spouses are eligible for this allowance even if they are employed in government positions, reflecting Qatar's commitment to strengthening family units.
One of the most talked-about changes is the QAR 12,000 annual marriage allowance per spouse.

• Who benefits: Both spouses are eligible, even if they are government employees.
  
• Purpose: Encourage early marriage among Qatari nationals and provide financial support for young families.
  
• Impact: This allowance is expected to relieve household financial pressures and support family planning initiatives.
  

The government emphasizes that this allowance aligns with Qatar’s vision to strengthen family bonds and national population growth.

Performance-based salary raises and promotions for government employees
The revised civil service framework introduces a merit-based promotion and compensation system. Employees will now be evaluated using two new performance ratings: “Exceeds Expectations” and “Exceptional,” alongside a unified “Meets Expectations” category. Annual raises are standardized to occur on January 1, with top performers eligible for increases up to 150% of their grade allowance.

• New Performance Ratings: “Exceeds Expectations,” “Exceptional,” and “Meets Expectations.”
  
• Annual Raises: Top performers can receive up to 150% of their grade allowance.
  
• Bonuses for Supervisors: Up to QAR 120,000 annually.
  
• Fast-Track Promotions: Outstanding employees may be promoted faster or awarded monetary prizes linked to government excellence awards.
  

These changes aim to motivate employees, ensure accountability, and retain top talent within the public sector.

Enhanced family and employee benefits for work-life balance

The amendments extend various benefits to improve work-life balance and support employees' families. Emergency leave has been increased to 10 days per year, and monthly excused hours are now set at 10. The reforms also prioritize family support and employee wellbeing:

• Emergency Leave: Increased to 10 days per year.
  
• Monthly Excused Hours: Now set at 10 hours.
  
• Hospitalization Support: One parent may accompany a hospitalized child.
  
• Maternity Leave: Three months full pay, extended to six months for twins or children with disabilities. Remote work options are available during late pregnancy.
  

These measures make Qatar’s civil service more attractive and flexible, particularly for young parents and working women.

Additional reforms to promote workforce flexibility
In a bid to enhance workforce flexibility, the reforms introduce temporary recruitment contracts and part-time roles for university students. Non-cash rewards have been increased from QAR 3,000 to QAR 5,000. The law also establishes professional certification stipends for employees with accredited qualifications and extends housing allowances for wives living separately due to state housing allocations.

These reforms reflect Qatar's commitment to aligning its labor policies with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy, emphasizing excellence in governance and readiness for the future workforce. The collaborative process involving government HR leaders underscores the nation's dedication to fostering a productive, accountable, and motivated civil service capable of delivering high-quality public services.