Qatar welcomes new GCC Volunteer Law to regulate and strengthen volunteer Work

Qatar's Minister of Social Development and Family, H.E. Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, has hailed the introduction of Law No. (6) of 2026, establishing a unified voluntary work framework across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. She described the legislation as a major step towards strengthening cooperation, harmonising volunteering regulations, and enhancing joint humanitarian and development efforts across the region. The law aims to create a common legal framework that encourages greater participation from individuals and organisations while improving the efficiency and governance of volunteer work.

Key Highlights

• Introduces a unified legal framework for voluntary work across GCC member states

• Establishes official registries for volunteers, volunteer teams, and programmes

• Defines the responsibilities of host organisations, including volunteer training, safety, and certification

• Prohibits financial gain from volunteer work and bans unauthorised fundraising activities

• Includes guidelines for cross-border volunteering and emergency response coordination

The minister added that the new law complements Qatar's ongoing efforts to promote organised volunteering through the National Volunteer Platform, reinforcing a culture of social responsibility and humanitarian engagement. She stressed that the initiative reflects a shared Gulf vision to institutionalise volunteer work, strengthen regional solidarity, and support sustainable development across GCC countries.