Qatar government remote working initiative ‘demonstrates progressive efforts’

Doha-based Sarah Khasawneh of Pinsent Masons, said: “Qatar’s progressive efforts to enhance community well-being and work-life balance through innovative policies like flexible working hours align with broader goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030.”

The initiative aims to create a more adaptable and supportive work environment that caters to the diverse needs of government employees while “maintaining high standards of productivity and service delivery”.

Government employees will be permitted to start their working day anytime from 6:30am and 8:30am, with the standard workday the seven hours between 7am and 2pm. The flexibility is designed to accommodate different personal schedules and preferences to make it easier for employees to balance their professional and personal lives.

In addition to flexible hours, the policy introduces a remote work system. Up to 30% of employees in each administrative unit can work remotely for one week per year. Mothers with children under the age of 12 are allowed one month of remote work annually. Employees with medical conditions or disabilities are also given special consideration under the policy, including reduced working hours and flexible start times. The initiative also gives new mothers two hours of flexibility for nursing. The system does not apply to shift workers or roles that cannot be flexed.

“The initiative is expected to have a significant positive impact on employee morale and productivity. However, it does come with its own set of challenges. Ensuring the newly introduced flexibility does not disrupt workflow and service delivery is a primary concern,” said Khasawneh.

The Qatar government has emphasised that the new system will be closely monitored and adjusted as needed to ensure that it meets its objectives without compromising the quality of public services.

“As the new system takes effect, it will be closely watched and potentially emulated by other nations and organisations looking to make their practices more modern and flexible,” said Khasawneh.