When is Eid Al Adha 2025 in Qatar?

Eid Al Adha to be observed in Qatar on Friday, June 6, 2025, following the Day of Arafah on Thursday, June 5.

Public Sector Holidays

The Amiri Diwan has announced a five-day public holiday for Eid Al Adha: 

• Start: Thursday, June 5, 2025 (Dhul-Hijjah 9)
• End: Monday, June 9, 2025 (Dhul-Hijjah 13)
• Work Resumes: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 (Dhul-Hijjah 14)

This applies to all ministries, government entities, and public institutions.

Bank and Financial Institutions

The Qatar Central Bank has confirmed that all banks and financial institutions will be closed from Thursday, June 5 to Monday, June 9, 2025. Regular operations will resume on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.  

Public Transport

• Doha Metro and Lusail Tram: While no Eid Al Adha-specific schedule has been announced yet, during Eid Al Fitr 2025, the Doha Metro operated:
  • Saturday to Thursday: 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM
  • Lusail Tram: Saturday to Thursday: 5:00 AM to 1:30 AM; Friday: 2:00 PM to 1:30 AM
• Expect similar extended hours and increased frequency for Eid Al Adha. Passengers are advised to check official Qatar Rail channels closer to the date for confirmed timings

Private Sector

The official government announcements cover ministries and public sector bodies. Private sector holiday schedules typically follow the public sector, but individual companies may set their own specific dates. Most private sector employees can expect a similar five-day holiday, from June 5 to June 9, 2025, with work resuming June 10

Eid Prayers

Eid Al Adha prayers will be held in mosques and designated prayer grounds across Qatar on the morning of Friday, June 6, 2025. Specific prayer times will be announced by local authorities as the date approaches

Eid Celebrations

Various events and activities are planned across Qatar to celebrate Eid Al Adha. For instance, Msheireb Downtown Doha will host festivities from June 6 to June 10, offering a range of family-friendly activities. 

Wishing everyone a joyful and blessed Eid Al Adha!

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Key Official Holidays:

• Eid al-Fitr: The holiday will start on the 28th day of Ramadan and continue until the end of the 4th day of Shawwal.
• Eid al-Adha: The holiday will begin on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah and last until the end of the 13th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
• Qatar National Day: Celebrated on December 18, this is a national holiday across the country.

Additional Holiday Rules:

• If a single working day falls between two official holidays, it will also be treated as a holiday.
• If a weekend overlaps with any of the official holidays, those days will be included in the holiday period as well.

These rules apply to ministries, government agencies, and public institutions in Qatar.

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Let’s explore the most useful Ooredoo codes for 2025 so you can make the most of your Ooredoo experience.

How to Check Your Balance

Keeping track of your balance is essential, whether it’s your main balance or bonus credit. Here’s how to do it:

• Main Balance: Dial *129#.
• Bonus Balance: Dial *129*2#.

Forgot Your Ooredoo SIM Number?

We’ve all been there—forgetting our own number happens more often than we’d like to admit! To quickly check your Ooredoo SIM number, just dial:

• *129#

Managing Call Waiting Service

Sometimes, staying available for all calls is crucial. Ooredoo’s call waiting service ensures you don’t miss important calls, even if you’re already on another one.

• Activate Call Waiting: Dial *43#.
• Deactivate Call Waiting: Dial *43# again.

Voicemail Service

Voicemail ensures you never miss important messages, even when you can’t answer your phone. Here’s how you can manage it:

• Activate Voicemail: Dial *100*1#.
• Deactivate Voicemail: Dial *100*400#.

Send a ‘Call Me Back’ Request

Low on balance but need someone to call you? Use the ‘Call Me Back’ feature to send a quick request:

• Dial: *103*Mobile Number#.

This is a lifesaver when you’re out of credit!

Transfer Balance to Friends or Family

Running low on credit happens, but Ooredoo makes it easy to share. If someone needs help, you can transfer some of your balance to them:

• Dial: *130*Mobile Number*Amount#.

For example, to send 10 QAR to a friend, you would dial: *130*12345678*10#.

Reach Ooredoo Customer Service

Need help or have a question? Here’s how to get in touch with Ooredoo support:

• From an Ooredoo Number: Dial 111.
• From Other Operators in Qatar: Call +974 44200700.
• From Outside Qatar: Dial +974 44380000.
• Email Support: Reach them at customer.service@ooredoo.qa.

Why Save These Codes?

These codes are your shortcuts to managing Ooredoo services quickly and easily. You don’t need to wait on hold or visit a store—everything is just a few taps away.

Final Tip:

Bookmark this article or save these codes in your phone for quick access when you need them. With Ooredoo’s services at your fingertips, staying connected in Qatar has never been simpler!

By keeping these codes handy, you’ll always be in control of your Ooredoo account—no stress, no hassle.

The post Ooredoo Qatar Useful Codes 2025 appeared first on Qexpat.com.

What is Gratuity?

Gratuity is essentially a monetary “thank you” from an employer to an employee for the services rendered throughout their employment period. It is payable upon the end of employment, provided the employee has completed at least one year of service. Whether an employee resigns, is terminated, or retires, they become eligible for this end-of-service payment. The eligibility and calculation for this payment are outlined in Article 54, highlighting the entitlement to gratuity for any fraction of the year worked after completing a year of continuous service.

Read: How to Check if You Have a Travel Ban in Qatar: A Simple Guide

Eligibility for Gratuity Payment

Any employee who completes more than one year of service becomes eligible for gratuity payment at the end of their service. This eligibility comes into play when an employee resigns, is terminated, or upon the termination of their employment contract for any other reason.

Calculating Your Gratuity in Qatar

The process of calculating gratuity in Qatar is straightforward but requires specific information such as your joining date, basic monthly salary, and your last working day. The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor, and Social Affairs offers online tools on its official website to facilitate this calculation. Although these tools are primarily available in Arabic, they provide a user-friendly way to calculate your end-of-service benefits by inputting the necessary details.

Related Article: Understanding Qatar Work Hours: Labor Law Explained

Sample Computation of Gratuity

Let’s break down the calculation with an example for clarity:

• Assume your basic monthly salary is 3,000 Qatari Riyal (QR).
• You’ve worked for 6 years with your company.

First, determine your daily basic salary by dividing your monthly salary by 30 (the number of days in a month). For a salary of 3,000 QR, this calculation would be:

Daily basic salary = 3000 QR/30=100 QR per day

Next, calculate your gratuity based on the completed years of service:

Gratuity = (number of completed years) × (21days per year) × (daily basic salary)
Gratuity = 6 × 21 × 100 = 12,600 QR 

Therefore, after 6 years of service with a basic salary of 3,000 QR, you would be entitled to a gratuity of 12,600 QR.

Also Read: How to Get Permanent Residency in Qatar

Key Rules and Laws

Several important rules and laws govern the calculation of gratuity in Qatar:

• The calculation is based on the last drawn basic salary.
• Changes in employment type do not affect the gratuity amount.
• Unpaid leave periods do not count towards the service period.
• In the event of an employee’s death, gratuity and unpaid wages must be settled within 15 days.
• Employees covered by a pension plan may not be eligible for gratuity, depending on the employment contract and applicable laws.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and calculating your end-of-service gratuity in Qatar is straightforward with the right information. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure you’re fully aware of what you’re entitled to after your years of service. This financial benefit is a crucial part of your employment rights, and knowing how to calculate it empowers you to make informed decisions about your career and financial future.

The post How to Calculate Your End-of-Service Gratuity in Qatar appeared first on Qexpat.com.

Economy Class Baggage Allowance

Qatar Airways provides four tiers within its Economy class, each with specific baggage allowances designed to cater to the diverse needs of its passengers:

• Economy Lite: For all destinations, passengers can check in up to 20kg (44lb). One piece of baggage is allowed for flights to/from Africa or the Americas, with a weight limit of 23kg (50lb).
• Economy Classic: A 25kg (55lb) allowance for flights to/from all destinations. For Africa or the Americas, passengers are allowed two pieces at 23kg (50lb) each.
• Economy Convenience: Allows 30kg (66lb) for all destinations and the same two-piece allowance as Economy Classic for Africa or the Americas.
• Economy Comfort: Offers the highest allowance in Economy with 35kg (77lb) for all destinations and two pieces at 23kg (50lb) each for Africa or the Americas.

Regardless of the tier, all Economy passengers are permitted one piece of hand baggage weighing up to 7kg (15lb).

Also Read: Qatar Visa on Arrival: A Complete Guide

Business Class Baggage Allowance

Business Class on Qatar Airways comes with generous baggage allowances, ensuring that passengers can carry everything they need for their journey:

• All Business Class tiers (Lite, Classic, Comfort, Elite): 40kg (88lb) allowance for flights to/from all destinations. For flights to/from Africa or the Americas, passengers can check in two pieces, each weighing up to 32kg (70lb).

In addition to the checked baggage, Business Class passengers can bring two pieces of hand baggage with a combined weight of up to 15kg (33lb).

First Class Baggage Allowance

For those flying First Class, Qatar Airways offers the pinnacle of luxury and convenience:

• First Elite: Passengers are allowed up to 50kg (110lb) for flights to/from all destinations and two pieces at 32kg (70lb) each for Africa or the Americas. Hand baggage allowance is the same as in Business Class, with two pieces not exceeding 15kg (33lb) in total.

Additional Considerations

• Privilege Club and Oneworld Members: Additional baggage allowances may apply based on membership tier and route.
• Baggage by Weight and Number of Pieces: Where the allowance is by weight (excluding Africa & the Americas), there’s no limit on the number of pieces as long as the combined weight does not exceed the allowance.
• Maximum Dimensions and Weight: The maximum dimensions and weight for checked baggage vary depending on the route, but a single piece should not exceed 32kg (70lb).

Also See: Doha Metro: Route Map, Timings & Fares

Hand Baggage and Other Items

Passengers can also bring hand baggage onboard. Economy passengers are allowed one piece up to 7kg (15lb), while Business and First Class passengers can bring two pieces with a combined weight of 15kg (33lb). Certain personal items are also permitted onboard, and there are specific regulations for carrying liquids, gels, and electronic devices.

Security and Electronics

Passengers on UK and USA-bound flights need to comply with specific security measures for electronic devices, ensuring they are charged and can be powered on upon request. Enhanced security screenings apply to all personal electronic devices on USA-bound flights from Doha.

Understanding Qatar Airways’ baggage policy helps ensure a smooth travel experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey. Always check your ticket or Qatar Airways’ official website for the most up-to-date baggage information before you travel, as allowances can vary based on specific flights and booking classes.

The post Qatar Airways Baggage Allowance: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Qexpat.com.

Checking Travel Ban Status through Metrash2

1. Download the Metrash2 App: Start by downloading the Metrash2 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. This app is your gateway to a range of governmental services in Qatar, including travel ban checks.
2. Log In: Open the app and log in. If you’re a new user, you’ll need to register first by following the app’s registration process.
3. Go to Travel Ban Section: Once logged in, click on the upper right icon to open the services menu. Select “Travel Ban” from the list to proceed.
4. Check Your Status: The app will display your travel ban status on the next screen. If there are no bans against your ID, you’ll see a message saying, “No data found for this search”.

Travel Bank Check through the MOI Portal

Alternatively, you can also check if you have a travel ban in Qatar by visiting the Ministry of Interior (MOI) e-services portal. Once there, log in, select “General Services”, and then choose “Travel Ban”. This method allows you to view any travel ban circulars issued against you, providing another way to verify your travel status.

In summary, checking for a travel ban in Qatar is easy and quick with the Metrash2 app or the Ministry of Interior’s website. Follow this guide to ensure your travel plans are smooth and worry-free.

The post How to Check if You Have a Travel Ban in Qatar: A Simple Guide appeared first on Qexpat.com.

Permanent Residency by Investment

Qatar provides an opportunity for permanent residency through investment. As outlined by the Investment Promotion Agency in Qatar, expatriates can obtain permanent residence by investing a minimum of USD 1 million. Additionally, a smaller investment of USD 200,000 in property, specifically in one of the 25 designated areas in Qatar, can grant foreigners temporary residency. This investment-focused approach aims to attract international investors and contribute to Qatar’s economic diversity.

Other Ways to Qualify for Permanent Residency

But what if you’re not investing? Qatar has other criteria under Law No.10 of 2018:

1. Residence Duration: Non-Qataris born outside Qatar must have lived in the state for at least 20 years, while those born in Qatar need a minimum of 10 years.
2. Financial Stability: A legitimate and sufficient income is necessary. Government employees should earn a minimum of QR20,000, and private sector employees must earn at least QR30,000.
3. Clean Record: Applicants should have a clean record, without any serious criminal history.
4. Language Skills: Proficiency in Arabic is required.

Exceptions to these rules include children of Qatari mothers and non-Qatari fathers, non-Qatari spouses of Qataris, children of naturalized Qataris, those who have rendered great services to the state, and individuals with special skills needed by the state.

Benefits of Holding a PR Card in Qatar

Permanent Residency (PR) in Qatar comes with several advantages:

• Access to health and education services at governmental institutions.
• PR holders can extend these benefits to their spouse and children under 18.
• The ability to invest in various sectors of the national economy without needing a Qatari partner.

Application Process: Documents and Steps

Required Documents

The specific documents required depend on the type of PR you’re applying for. These can include:

• Employment contracts.
• Proof of family ties to a Qatari resident.
• Proof of investment in Qatar.
• A valid Qatari ID.
• Payment of a state fee (USD 824).
• Proof of Arabic fluency.

Application Steps

1. Preparation: Collect necessary documents related to identity, stay duration, education, work experience, and financial stability.
2. Submission: Applications and necessary forms should be submitted to the Ministry of the Interior or the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. This can also be done online through the public services website or the Metrash2 app.
3. Processing: It typically takes about four weeks for the authorities to process the application. During this time, applicants might be required to provide additional information.
4. Decision: A positive decision grants the applicant a permanent residence permit. In case of refusal, the reasons will be provided, and the applicant can appeal or submit additional documents to strengthen their application.

Remember, Qatar has an annual quota for permanent residency. If it’s reached, you might have to wait until the next year to apply.

In conclusion, obtaining permanent residency in Qatar is now more accessible, especially for investors. With clear guidelines and a structured application process, Qatar is opening its doors to a diverse and global community. Whether you’re an investor or a long-term resident with ties to the country, the opportunity for a permanent home in Qatar is a reality worth exploring.

The post How to Get Permanent Residency in Qatar appeared first on Qexpat.com.

Downloading Metrash2

Before diving into the registration process, you need to have the Metrash2 app installed on your smartphone. Don’t worry, it’s a breeze. Whether you’re an Android user or an Apple fan, Metrash2 is available on both the Play Store and App Store. Just search for “Metrash2” in your respective store and hit download. Once the app is installed, you’re all set to start managing your MOI-related tasks easily.

Also Read: How to Change Your Mobile Number in Metrash2: A Step-by-Step Guide

Activating Metrash2 for the First Time

Now that you have Metrash2 on your phone, it’s time to activate it. Follow these simple steps to get started:

1. Open the App: Tap on the Metrash2 icon on your phone to open the app.
2. Login: Upon opening, click on the login button.
3. Enter QID Number: You’ll be prompted to enter your Qatar ID (QID) number. Type it in and click next.
4. QID Expiry Date: Next, you need to enter the expiry date of your QID. Fill this in and proceed by clicking next.
5. Activation Data: Metrash2 will then open your messaging application filled with the necessary activation data.
6. Send the Message: Simply send this pre-filled message. This is crucial for the activation process.
7. Wait for the Activation Code: After sending the message, wait briefly for an activation code to be sent to you.
8. Enter the Activation Code: Go back to the Metrash2 app and enter the received activation code.
9. Set a New Password: Finally, you will be asked to set a new password. Choose a secure password, enter it, and click next.

Congratulations! You have now successfully registered in Metrash2 services. With these simple steps, you’re now empowered to manage various MOI services conveniently from your phone.

Metrash2 is designed to make life easier for residents of Qatar, providing timely alerts and efficient management of official documents and services. By following this straightforward registration process, you’re unlocking a world of convenience and efficiency, all from the palm of your hand.

The post How to Register on the Metrash2 App: Easy Guide appeared first on Qexpat.com.

Metrash2

Metrash portal provides its service through its mobile app called Metrash2. This user-friendly app enables residents of Qatar to effortlessly access MOI services right from their mobile devices. Metrash2 plays an essential role in keeping you informed about critical notifications related to your daily life in Qatar, such as traffic violation alerts, resident permit expiry alerts, driver’s license expiry alerts, and car registration expiry alerts.

How to Update Your Mobile Number

1. Visit the Official Website: Start by accessing the Ministry of Interior’s official website at www.moi.gov.qa.
2. Choose Your Preferred Language: Click on “English” to navigate the website in English, making it easier to follow the steps.
3. Got to Inquiries: Look for the “inquiries” image on the website and click on it.
4. Access Metrash: In the next step, click on the “Metrash” option.
5. Metrash for Individuals: Choose “Metrash for individuals” to proceed with personal account changes.
6. Enter Your Details: Here, you’ll need to input your QID (Qatar ID) Number and your new mobile number.
7. Select Language Preference: Choose whether you’d like to continue in Arabic or English.
8. Verification Step: Enter the image code displayed on the screen for verification purposes.
9. Finalize the Change: Click on “Change Number” to update your mobile number.
10. Activate Metrash2: Now, open the app and activate your Metrash2 app using your QID number.

By updating your mobile number in Metrash, you ensure that you continue to receive crucial alerts and notifications pertinent to your daily life in Qatar. This simple process not only keeps your account up-to-date but also reinforces the convenience and efficiency that Metrash2 brings to your daily life.

The post How to Change Your Mobile Number in Metrash2: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Qexpat.com.

The Standard Working Week

As per Qatar’s labor law, the standard cap on normal working hours is set at 48 hours per week and eight hours per day. This regulation applies throughout the year, except the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring a balanced work-life ratio for employees.

Special Consideration During Ramadan

Qatar acknowledges the significance of Ramadan and accordingly adjusts the working hours during this holy month. During Ramadan, the maximum working hours are reduced to 36 hours per week, and six-hour a day. This accommodation reflects the country’s commitment to respecting religious practices and the well-being of its workforce.

Commuting: Not Part of Working Hours

An important aspect to note is that the time spent commuting between one’s place of work and accommodation is not considered part of the working hours. This clarification is crucial for workers in planning their daily schedules and understanding their work commitments.

Break Times

The labor law also mandates that the working hours must include breaks for prayer, rest, and eating. These breaks should be no less than one hour and not more than three hours in total. Importantly, these intervals are not included in the calculation of the working hours. Additionally, the law specifies that employees should not work for more than five consecutive hours, ensuring ample rest periods during the workday.

Exceptions to the Rule

However, there are exceptions to these stipulations. Article (73) does not apply to certain categories of workers, including:

1. Workers involved in preparatory and complementary tasks that need to be done outside the standard working hours.
2. Security guards and cleaning workers, due to the nature of their duties.
3. Other categories specified by the Minister’s decision.

For these exceptions, the maximum working hours are determined by a decision from the Minister, acknowledging the unique demands of these roles.

Conclusion

Qatar’s Labor Law, particularly Article (73), aims to balance work commitments with the well-being of employees. By setting clear limits on working hours, ensuring breaks, and adjusting for religious observances, the law seeks to foster a fair and respectful work environment. It’s crucial for both employers and employees in Qatar to be aware of these regulations to ensure compliance and promote a healthy, productive workforce. Whether you’re a newcomer to the Qatari job market or a long-term resident, understanding these aspects of the labor law is key to a successful and fulfilling work life in Qatar.

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