Qatar pegs $200 as minimum wage

Qatar has set a temporary minimum wage for migrant workers worth around $200 a month, a benchmark reform following widespread criticism of Doha’s preparations for the 2022 World Cup.

Issa al-Nuaimi told AFP that the “temporary minimum wage of 750 riyals ($195, 166 euro) per month will immediately come into effect”, while officials work on setting a permanent rate.

In addition to the new salary, labourers will receive free accommodation, food and healthcare plans, covered by employers, he said.

Introducing a minimum wage was among a package of major labour changes announced last month by Qatar, which has come under continued global scrutiny and criticism for its treatment of some two million migrant workers.

Qatar has never before had a minimum wage policy, and officials said the 750 riyals figure could increase after a review. “We will not approve any employment contract if the salary is below 750 Qatari riyals per month.

All contracts must now be approved by the ministry (of labour),” Nuaimi said. “If any change is made to the contract, we will apply the new procedures.” He added that the new wage limit had been enforced for the past month.

UCJ, UNILORIN.