Qatar reinforces position as key player in regional workplace culture

Doha, Qatar: Qatar is reinforcing its standing as a "significant workplace-culture market" across the Middle East, according to an official, as the Great Place to Work Middle East recognized the top 200 organizations on its "2026 Best Workplaces in the Middle East" list. Notable organizations include Al Abdulghani Motors, University of Doha for Science and Technology, Zulal Wellness Resort, Shift Group, Qatar Power Engineering & Contracting, and MagniPro Technology Services.

The analysis revealed that 86.6% of employees across Qatar-based organizations deemed their firms as great places to work, with 90.3% being proud to share their workplace with others. Furthermore, 85.7% believed their management possessed a clear vision for the company's direction.

Jules Youssef, Managing Director for Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait at Great Place to Work Middle East, noted that an emphasis on leadership, trust, and overall employee experience is evident among leading employers. Employee wellbeing has become a fundamental aspect of a strong workplace culture, with 91.4% of employees feeling physically safe, 78.3% finding their workplace psychologically and emotionally healthy, 81.4% able to take necessary time off, and 77.5% encouraged to balance work and personal life.

Youssef emphasized that employers addressing employee feedback effectively would be better positioned to build trust and resilience. Regarding Qatar's diverse expatriate workforce, he highlighted that 90.2% of employees felt welcome, 85.1% treated as full members, and 84.9% comfortable being themselves at work. He stressed that inclusion should extend across nationalities, cultures, roles, and seniority levels, with 80.7% reporting fair treatment regardless of race.

Qatar's workforce development aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country's shift towards a knowledge-based economy. The findings revealed that 82.1% of employees received professional training or development, 85.6% believed their organization adapted quickly to changes for success, 82.8% felt trusted by management, and 88.3% perceived their work as having meaning beyond a job.

These factors contribute to a workforce that is empowered, purpose-driven, and capable of contributing to Qatar's future ambitions, according to Youssef.