How overtime is calculated in Qatar
Hourly wage = basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 (48-hour week, 36 hours in Ramadan). Total hours including overtime may not exceed 10 per day. Work on Friday requires a substitute rest day plus 150%.
Worked example
QAR 6,000: hourly = 6,000 ÷ 30 ÷ 8 = 25. Ten hours of weekday overtime (125%) = 10 × 25 × 1.25 = QAR 312.5.
Overtime rates across the GCC
| Country | Weekday | Night | Rest day / holiday | Hourly basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Qatar | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Saudi Arabia | 150% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Oman | 125% | 150% | 200% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 9 |
| Bahrain | 125% | 150% | 150% | full ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Kuwait | 125% | — | 150% / 200% | full ÷ 26 ÷ 8 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the overtime rate in Qatar?
Weekday overtime (125%); Night 9pm–3am (150%); Friday / rest day (150%). Legal basis: Law 14/2004, Art. 74–75.
How do I calculate my hourly rate for overtime in Qatar?
Monthly basic salary ÷ 30 days ÷ 8 hours. Example: QAR 6,000 → QAR 25 per hour; one weekday overtime hour = QAR 31.25.
Is overtime calculated on basic or gross salary in Qatar?
On basic salary. Allowances are excluded, which is why the overtime rate often looks low relative to total pay.
Is there a limit on overtime hours in Qatar?
Yes — normally 2 hours a day. See the notes above for annual limits and exceptions.
Can my employer give time off instead of overtime pay?
For work on the weekly rest day most GCC laws allow a substitute day off (sometimes plus a premium). For ordinary weekday overtime the law requires payment; time-off-in-lieu arrangements need your agreement.
Are managers entitled to overtime?
Most GCC labour laws allow employers to exclude senior managerial or supervisory staff from working-hours provisions by contract or ministerial decision. Check your contract and job classification.
Is overtime pay subject to tax or social insurance?
There is no personal income tax in the GCC. For nationals, overtime is generally excluded from the pensionable wage used for GOSI/PASI/GRSIA contributions.