Doha, Qatar: The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, chaired the regular Cabinet meeting at the Amiri Diwan. The session focused on several key topics, with decisions aimed at enhancing Qatar’s workforce, real estate regulations, and government efficiency.
These decisions reflect Qatar’s continued efforts to align with its Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, fostering progress in governance, workforce development, and sustainable growth.
Qatar Cabinet Approves Key Amendments and Regulations in Civil Human Resources, Real Estate, and Sustainable Development
Following the meeting, HE Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi, Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, issued a comprehensive statement outlining the primary decisions made. The meeting covered several draft laws and amendments critical to enhancing Qatar’s workforce and regulatory frameworks.
Amendments to the Civil Human Resources Law
One of the pivotal decisions made during the session was the approval of a Draft Law amending the Civil Human Resources Law, initially issued in Law No. 15 of 2016. The proposed amendments aim to modernize the law, ensuring it aligns with Qatar’s future workforce needs, as outlined in the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030. The changes focus on improving the work environment, regulating performance evaluation systems, and introducing incentives that enhance productivity while balancing family and work life.
This reform aims to support government institutions in their pursuit of excellence and ensure the workforce is prepared for future challenges. The proposal comes from the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, which is committed to improving institutional efficiency across all sectors of government.
Non-Qatari Ownership of Real Estate
Another critical topic on the agenda was the regulation of non-Qataris’ ownership and use of real estate. A Draft Law was approved, amending Law No. 16 of 2018. This law is essential in facilitating foreign investment and property ownership while maintaining regulatory oversight. The amendments propose transferring the jurisdiction of the Committee for Regulating Non-Qatari Ownership from the Ministry of Justice to the Real Estate Regulatory Authority.
This shift in oversight aims to streamline processes, ensuring that non-Qataris’ involvement in the real estate sector aligns with Qatar’s long-term economic and social goals. Additionally, the Cabinet approved a decision to amend Decision No. 8 of 2019, further ensuring clarity and cohesion in the regulations governing foreign property ownership.
Support for Contractors, Suppliers, and Service Providers
The Cabinet also focused on enhancing the classification and evaluation process for contractors, suppliers, and service providers. An amendment to Decision No. 1 of 2021 was approved, which concerns the Technical Advisory Committee responsible for this classification. This amendment aims to improve the evaluation systems for service providers, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance and compliance with national regulations.
This decision reflects Qatar’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governmental processes and ensure that the country’s suppliers and service providers are operating at an optimal level, in line with both national and GCC technical regulations.
Sustainable Economic Development and Regional Collaboration
Qatar’s commitment to sustainable economic development was underscored by its approval to join the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development. This initiative will enhance Qatar’s role in regional and global efforts to promote economic sustainability and development through integrated partnerships.
The Cabinet also approved a Memorandum of Understanding between the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority of Qatar and the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority of Saudi Arabia. This agreement will foster greater cooperation between the two nations in combating corruption, promoting transparency, and enhancing integrity in government operations. Such collaborations reflect Qatar’s dedication to maintaining high standards of governance and aligning with international best practices.
Qatar’s Commitment to Natural Resource Preservation
A draft decision by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry was approved to adopt a GCC technical regulation related to water conservation. This regulation will be incorporated as a Qatari technical regulation, contributing to the country’s broader efforts in conserving natural resources and supporting sustainable development. The decision aligns with Qatar’s broader environmental policies, ensuring that its natural resources are preserved for future generations.
Evaluation of Reduced Working Hours for Female Employees
In a progressive step towards supporting working mothers, the Cabinet reviewed a study conducted by the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau. The study focused on the evaluation of reduced working hours for female employees (mothers) during the mid-academic year vacation for 2023-2024. This initiative aimed at balancing family responsibilities with professional duties, ensuring that mothers in government entities can maintain a healthy work-life balance. The Cabinet’s decision on this matter signals Qatar’s continued focus on supporting workforce diversity and fostering a cohesive society.
Conclusion
The recent Cabinet meeting chaired by HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani highlights Qatar’s dedication to future-proofing its workforce, fostering sustainable development, and ensuring transparency in government. The decisions made during this session reflect the country’s strategic priorities under the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which aims to enhance governance, optimize the workforce, and position Qatar as a leader in regional collaboration and sustainable growth.
By focusing on workforce efficiency, real estate regulation, and collaborative partnerships, Qatar is setting a strong foundation for the future, ensuring its continued success on the global stage. These reforms not only prepare the nation for future challenges but also contribute to building a cohesive, progressive, and inclusive society.