Workers' Welfare Standards

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

In response to mounting criticism over the treatment of migrant workers in its preparations for the 2022 World Cup football tournament, Qatar established the Workers' Welfare Charter in 2013, published the Workers' Welfare Standards in 2014, and published an updated second edition of the Workers' Welfare Standards in 2016. The standards include measures to improve the working conditions and treatment of migrant workers such as ordering companies to set up bank accounts for workers and pay in their wages electronically, banning midday outdoor work in the summer, and setting up an electronic complaints system for migrant workers.

Employer’s Information Pack: Health Insurance Law of Dubai

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

This Employer's Information Pack, issued by the Government of Dubai and the Dubai Health Authority, provides detailed information on the health insurance law including who will pay for coverage and the type of health insurance plan that an employer or sponsor should provide. 

Law No. 7 of 2013 on the Social Health Insurance System

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

Similar to Sultan's Decree No. 72 of 1991, Law No. 7 was enacted to ensure the implementation of a mandatory health insurance system of basic health services to all Qatari citizens, GCC citizens, residents and visitors. The employer is held responsible for payment of health insurance premiums for non-Qatari employees and members of their families while sponsors are responsible for payment of those premiums for sponsored individuals.

Law No. 23 of 2005

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

Law No. 23, regarding the Health Insurance Scheme for the Emriate of Abu Dhabi, states that every employer is required to provide health insurance coverage for all his employees/workers and their family members covering the employee’s/worker’s wife and three children under 18 years of age. Every sponsor must subscribe to the scheme for any person under his sponsorship from the date of his arrival to the State unless such a person is entitled to health insurance coverage through his employer.

Sultani Decree No. 72/1991, The Social Insurance Law

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

Decree No. 72 was enacted to ensure the implementation of a mandatory health insurance system of basic health services to all Omani citizens, GCC citizens, residents and visitors. It also holds the employer responsible for payment of health insurance premiums for non-Omani employees and members of their families and holds the sponsor responsible for payment of those premiums for sponsored individuals.

Amiri Decree-Law No. 23 of 1976, The Labour Law for the Private Sector

Date Adopted / Created / Concluded

Decree-Law No. 23, the Labour Law for the Private Sector, includes many provisions regarding migrant workers in the country's private sector. This legislation has since been amended by Legislative Decree No.14 of 1993.