Ministry of Labour Holds Second Roundtable for Construction Sector

Doha, September 19, 2026 : The Ministry of Labour, in cooperation with Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI), held the second roundtable for the construction, building materials, and wood sectors, building on the discussions and outcomes of the inaugural roundtable held in December 2025.

Roundtable Advances Social Dialogue Across Key Sectors

The roundtable forms part of Qatar's continued efforts to further develop its labour relations framework and promote constructive social dialogue across key economic sectors. It brought together representatives of government entities, employers, and workers to discuss challenges facing the sectors, exchange expertise and good practices, and explore practical approaches to strengthening labour relations and cooperation between employers and workers.

Joint Committees, Wage Protection Among Key Topics

Discussions focused on implementing the new framework for joint committees, with participants examining ways to strengthen worker participation and establish effective communication channels between workers and employers. Other key areas covered included wage protection, occupational safety and health, social dialogue, and measures to enhance cooperation at the sector level. The meeting also provided an opportunity to review progress made since the first construction sector roundtable in December 2025 and build on its recommendations.

International, Local Stakeholders Take Part

A delegation from Building and Wood Workers' International took part in the discussions alongside representatives from the Ministry of Labour, relevant government entities, and employers and companies operating in the construction and related sectors. The exchange drew on international experience and practical expertise, while exploring approaches consistent with Qatar's national legislation and relevant international standards.

Dalmouk Highlights Importance of Social Dialogue

Speaking at the meeting, Assistant Undersecretary for Migrant Labour Affairs Hamad Faraj Dalmouk said the second roundtable continued the dialogue initiated at the inaugural meeting in December 2025. He emphasized Qatar's commitment to social dialogue as a fundamental pillar of labour market development, noting that sustained engagement between employers and workers provides an effective platform for addressing challenges and developing practical solutions.

Joint Worker Committees Key to Strengthening Participation

Dalmouk highlighted the importance of joint worker committees as a key mechanism for strengthening worker participation and establishing direct communication channels between workers and employers, describing them as a structured forum for addressing workplace challenges and improving working conditions, stability, and productivity.

Wage Protection System Called a Pillar of Worker Rights

On wage protection, Dalmouk described the Wage Protection System as an important pillar of Qatar's framework for safeguarding workers' rights, noting that it helps ensure timely wage payments while promoting greater transparency between workers and employers.

Comprehensive Approach Needed for Working Conditions

He stressed that improving working conditions requires a comprehensive approach extending beyond regulatory measures, including ensuring safe and healthy workplaces and strengthening awareness of occupational safety and health procedures, particularly in sectors demanding high adherence to preventive measures.

Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Continued Dialogue

Dalmouk underscored the importance of continued engagement among stakeholders and drawing on international best practices to improve working conditions while remaining aligned with national legislation and international standards. He reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to maintaining open dialogue with its partners, incorporating their feedback, and continuing to develop policies that strengthen worker protection while supporting the efficiency and competitiveness of various economic sectors.

Sector-Wide Issues Discussed in Working Sessions

During the working sessions, participants discussed issues including employment and recruitment, wage protection, occupational safety and health, worker participation, social dialogue, and the role of joint committees in strengthening cooperation between employers and workers.

Sustained Dialogue Reaffirmed as Priority

The roundtable concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of sustained dialogue, coordination, and the exchange of expertise among employers and workers, highlighting the value of continued sectoral cooperation in advancing Qatar's labour system.

Source: QNA