The Ministry of Labour in Qatar and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development in Pakistan have approved a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU), opening the door for skilled labour from Pakistan to enter the Qatari market.
Market watchers claim that Pakistan lost out on a chance to supply labour to Qatar when a few foreign employment agencies monopolised the movement of labourers to Doha.
Around 300,000 Pakistani workers have moved to Qatar since 1971, contributing significantly to the country’s socioeconomic development, according to information presented by the Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Division during a recent cabinet meeting.
The suggestion from Qatar for a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen labour mobility cooperation was also discussed by the authorities. Facilitating the exchange of knowledge in labour relations, inspections, and occupational safety and health is the goal of this draft memorandum of understanding.
Stakeholders were consulted, their opinions and no-objection certificates were obtained, and a consensus was achieved regarding the draft’s content.
The issue of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis prioritising the sending of skilled workers from Pakistan to other countries—especially those with knowledge of high technology, information technology, paramedical services, electrical work, plumbing, and other fields—was discussed in the meeting that followed.
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The ministry was directed to enlist the assistance of community welfare attachés stationed in Pakistani missions overseas in order to obtain data regarding foreign employment prospects and the particular competencies required for those roles.
Qatar’s economy is expanding, and many different industries there need skilled workers. Employment opportunities for Pakistani nationals are available in industries including information technology, engineering, healthcare, and construction.
Salary levels in Qatar are competitive when compared to several other nations. Higher pay for skilled workers can greatly raise their level of living and enable them to support their families back home.
Foreign employees are not subject to income tax in Qatar. This implies that Pakistani workers are entitled to keep their whole wage, net of any tax deductions, for personal use.
Accommodation and health insurance are often the responsibility of the employer in Qatar. This guarantees that while they are there, employees have access to lodging that is appropriate and medical care.
Pakistani workers have the chance to improve their abilities and obtain invaluable experience by working in Qatar. They can work with professionals from a variety of backgrounds and gain knowledge from global projects.
Being employed in Qatar offers chances to network with experts throughout the world. Future employment opportunities and career progress may result from this networking.
Qatar has made large investments in the development of its infrastructure. Modern facilities, transportation, and amenities are advantageous to workers.
To guarantee that their time working in Qatar is beneficial, Pakistani employees should be aware of their rights, adhere to the law, and select reliable employers.
It was mandated that the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) provide training in income-generating skills in accordance with the demands of the labour markets in both nations.