Human Resources Department
FAQ's
Last modified: January 04, 2009 13:48:07.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About Qatar

  1. How safe is Qatar?

    Qatar is a very safe country. Generally, crime is not an issue for travelers and residents. However, we recommend that you take normal precautions against theft. Please do not leave your wallet, purse or your credit card unattended.

  2. What can I wear in Qatar?

    No one can prevent you from dressing the way you like, but chances are you will feel more comfortable blending in, at least in public places. People in Qatar favor conservative clothing. It is advisable to avoid revealing or tight fitting clothes. Anything that covers the knees, most of the chest and at least a quarter of the arms is suitable.

  3. How is the weather like in Qatar?

    The weather is generally pleasant in winter and hot and humid during the summer months. Winter daytime temperatures average a very pleasant 20-35 degrees Celsius (68-95 degrees Fahrenheit), although nights can be relatively cool. You will need to wear a sweater or a light coat during the winter. In summer, the temperature gets as high as 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).

  4. What is the voltage of electricity supply in Qatar?

    The voltage in Qatar is 220 " 240 Volts, 50 Hz.

  5. Are there any recreational facilities in Doha?

    There are many recreational facilities and health fitness centers in Doha. All major hotels in the city have health and wellness programs such as aerobics, fitness classes, gyms, spa treatments, yoga and Pilates. Additionally, there are many sports and sporting associations such as bowling, baseball, basketball, cycling, fencing, hockey, golf and equestrian. Comedy, dancing, drama, music are also some of the things that you can get involved with while in Doha.

  6. Are there internet cafes in Doha?

    You will find many internet cafes in Doha. The cost is QR5.00 per hour. Free dial up internet connection from your home is also available through the University IT Department. If you want to purchase a faster internet connection, there are the ISDN and ADSL services available from QTel. However, please note that you can"t apply for any of the above mentioned services prior to obtaining your Residence Permit and installing a landline.

    For more information on broadband connection, please contact QTel. You can access their website at www.qtel.com.qa

Logistics, Before and After Arrival to Qatar

  1. What should I do upon receiving the offer letter?

    Please ensure that you email your acceptance of the offer to the addresses shown on your offer letter.

  2. When will I be informed about my recruitment progress?

    As soon as the Recruitment Section receives your acceptance email, you will be sent a welcome email which contains information about your next steps. You will have to provide the Recruiting Section with the necessary documents specified in the welcome email. Once the required documents are received the Recruiting Section will process your Entry Visa to Qatar.

    Allocation of accommodation and other relevant information will be communicated to you as soon as they become available from the Housing Department.

  3. When should I expect to arrive in Doha?

    The 2007/2008 Academic Year QU HR Orientation period begins on Sunday, August 26, 2007and ends with the university-wide QU New Employee Orientation on September 10, 2007. While you can commence your HR processing as late as September 9 (your report to work date), we encourage you to get a head start on the processing as unavoidable delays are common. Additionally, you and your family will have enough time to acclimatize to your new surroundings, and to get over your jet lag. Please note, since the official start date at QU is September 9, you will not be compensated (other than provision of your residence) until September 9, 2007. However, you are entitled to apply for an advance on your first month"s salary during the Orientation Week.

  4. Should I buy my travel ticket or will QU make my travel reservations?

    The Recruiting Section will get in touch with you once your Entry Visa is issued by the Department of Labor/Qatari Passport Office.

    Recruiting will ask you for your preferred routes of travel. The information will be passed to our travel coordinator who will make your reservations and send you an e- ticket.

    You may also make your own reservations and seek reimbursement from QU. However, the reimbursement amount will not exceed the quotation amount received from Qatar Airways.

    If you have opted to arrange your own air travel tickets, please inform the Recruiting Section about your flight details. Please provide the carrier name, flight number, date of travel, departure and arrival times, number of people accompanying you and the estimated number of pieces of luggage you will be carrying. Send the information at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival date so that appropriate transportation can be provided.

  5. What are the main documents that I have to carry with me when entering Qatar?

    Print out a copy of the scanned visa sent to you by the Recruiting Section and carry it with you while traveling to Qatar. The Immigration Officer at Doha International Airport will have your information in his/her computer and will stamp your passport accordingly.

    It will also be a good idea to carry QU key contact telephone numbers in case you need to contact anyone in case of an emergency.

    If your pet is traveling with you, you must carry the original �Permit to Import Pets (dogs & cats)� document issued by the Department of Animal Resources in the State of Qatar.

  6. Will someone meet me at the airport?

    Yes, a QU driver will pick you up at the airport and take you to your assigned permanent accommodation.

Residence Permit & Immigration Processes

  1. Why do I need a Police Clearance or a good Conduct Certificate from my country?

    The Police Clearance sometimes referred to as a Good Conduct Certificate or a Criminal Record Check for Overseas Employment is a requirement of the State of Qatar from all citizens intending to work in Qatar. You will need this document in order to process your Residence Permit.

  2. How do I get a Police Clearance/Good Conduct Certificate?

    Getting a police clearance or a good conduct certificate is the responsibility of the new hire. The University cannot provide assistance in this matter, however, we can only provide guidance based on information we may receive from local embassies.

    Per State of Qatar requirement, a new hire must provide a police clearance or a good conduct certificate from the same country that he/she is holding a passport from and intends to enter Qatar using that same passport. For example, if a new recruit is planning to enter Qatar on a US passport, they will have to provide the University with a police clearance from the US even if they are residing outside the country. The clearance must be original and stamped by the issuing agency. The clearance must also be authenticated from the employee"s home country"s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Dept of State). Two options are available at this point: 1) Get further authentication from a Qatari Diplomatic representation in your country; or 2) Bring the document with you and take it to your embassy in Doha. If you country is not represented in Qatar you may take it to the British Embassy for authentication. Once stamped by your embassy in Qatar (or the British Embassy) you will have to take the document to the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their final attestation. Once the document with the signatures are secured you will need to submit it to QU"s Passport Office to include it with your Residence Permit application.

    Please note that the process of getting this document takes a while and requires patience from your side. Therefore, you are advised to start having it processed as soon as possible. The University has made arrangements with the Qatari authorities to provide all faculty members an exemption for one year if they do not have their police clearance ready. If you do not have your police clearance ready by the time you apply for a Residence Permit, you will be issued a Residence Permit valid for one year. Once you secure the police clearance you can get your Residence Permit extended to three years. Therefore, for QU faculty members, having a police clearance on hand is not an entry criterion to Qatar. Please note that the police clearance is for the employee only. Family members do not need a police clearance.

  3. What are the Residence Permit procedures in Qatar?

    All citizens residing in Qatar require a Residence Permit. The Residence Permit consists of three procedures: 1) Going through the Medical Commission; 2) Blood typing test at a medical lab; 3) Going through the finger printing process at the Criminal Evidence and Investigation Department (CEID). The process starts once you arrive in Qatar. QU"s External Relations will assist new hires arriving from outside Qatar in the process.

    If you are a local hire (hired from Doha) contact the Recruiting Section for guidance on the process.

  4. What does the Medical Commission process entail?

    At the Medical Commission facility you will undergo a medical exam which consists of eye exam, chest sounded with a stethoscope, chest x-ray, and blood test for HIV antibodies, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Children over 11 years of age must undergo a medical examination as well. Children under 11 are exempted from the medical examination. Be prepared to spend approximately 4 hours at the Medical Commission. Results are typically available in 3 working days.

    Any physical taken outside the Medical Commission is not accepted.

    QU"s External Relations will provide assistance to new hires hired from outside Qatar. If you have been hired from Qatar contact the Recruiting Section for guidance.

  5. What does the Criminal Evidence & Investigation Department (CEID) process entail?

    Once your Medical Certificate is issued by the Medical Commission facility, you will be ready to visit the CEID to be finger printed. If you are a local hire (hired from Qatar) you will need to present your police clearance/good conduct certificate to the CEID. Otherwise, hand it to QU"s Passport Office to apply for a 3 year Residence Permit.

    Male children over 12 years and female children over 16 years of age must undergo fingerprinting.

  6. What happens after I complete the Medical Commission and CEID procedures?

    QU"s Passport Office will apply for your Residence Permit. It takes anywhere between 2-6 weeks to get your Residence Permit. You should plan to stay in the country during this entire time. Otherwise, you will have to start the process of the medical and finger printing all over again.

    Once your Residence Permit is issued, QU"s Passport Office will apply for your Qatar Personal ID.

  7. What do I need to apply for once I obtain a Residence Permit?

    Once you are issued a Residence Permit you can apply for the following:

    1. A medical card
    2. Transfer you family"s sponsorship to yours
    3. Sign your QU contract
    4. Process your permanent QU ID Card
    5. Apply for a driver"s license
    6. Apply for a landline & broadband internet (if you wish)
    7. Apply to sponsor a nanny/maid (if you wish)

  8. When can my family get their Residence Permit?

    QU will arrange for your family to enter Qatar through an Entry Visa. Once you get your Residence Permit processed, it is imperative that you transfer their sponsorship to yours. QU Passport Office will assist you on this.

  9. Is there a deadline to process my family"s Residence Permit?

    The State of Qatar immigration law requires that the Residence Visa is processed within 30 days from the date of their arrival.

  10. Can my spouse or dependent work in Qatar? Does he/she need work authorization?

    A female spouse can work under her spouse"s or father"s sponsorship without transferring it to QU"s. However, a male spouse or dependent would be required to transfer his sponsorship to his new employer. Once your Residence Permit is obtained, your spouse or dependent can apply for a job outside Qatar University.

  11. What if I get married after joining QU, what are the procedures to bring my spouse to Qatar?

    You can apply to bring your family to Doha under your sponsorship. The University"s Passport Office will process the visa for your family.

  12. Can I bring a nanny (maid) from my country?

    Bringing a nanny or a maid is subject to Qatar Immigration approval. The University will provide a no objection letter to the Immigration Department of the State of Qatar. You need to follow up the procedures yourself. QU is not responsible to provide assistance in this regard.

Orientation

  1. What is the HR Orientation Schedule and In-processing?

    The activities of the HR Orientation Schedule and In-processing are laid out in our QU New Employee Orientation Guide. You can access it by visiting http://www.qu.edu.qa/qu/hr/hr_yahala.html


Accommodation

  1. What kind of accommodation should I expect?

    Depending on your position and grade level, size of your family and availability, the accommodation can be an apartment or a villa in a compound with or without facilities like a gym and a swimming pool. Academic staff and administrative personnel who are holding executive positions may be allocated villas. All faculty accommodations is furnished with basic furniture such as bed, mattress, closets, dressers, sofa, armchairs, dining table, chairs, TV and satellite. The kitchen is provided with major appliances excluding microwave, pots and pans and utensils. The accommodations are also furnished with air conditioning units. Tenants are responsible for paying their own utility bills. For more information on University housing please visit the Housing website at http://www.qu.edu.qa/home/housing/index2.htm

  2. Who decides which compound/accommodation type I will be staying in?

    The Housing Committee decides on your compound/accommodation type.

  3. How far is my accommodation from the University?

    QU residential compounds are located throughout Doha. Accommodation is not within walking distance of the University. Depending on where you live and where your department/campus is, driving can take from 10 to 50 minutes during peak hours.

  4. If after moving into the assigned accommodation, I realize it is not suitable for my family, can I move to another house?

    You should have acceptable reasons to move out from your place. You should inform the Housing Department as soon as possible. The Housing Committee will make a decision. If in your favor, the Housing Department will help you find a new house.

  5. Will I be entitled to furniture allowance?

    All faculty members are issued furnished accommodation. The option of getting an unfurnished accommodation is not available. Therefore, no furniture allowance is provided.

Transportation

  1. How can I get a vehicle permit/parking permit?

    During the HR Orientation & in-processing week you will be able to apply for a vehicle permit in order to access the Women"s Campus with your vehicle. If you have your own car you can go ahead and apply for a permanent permit. If you are renting a car you will require a temporary vehicle permit which you can renew every 2 weeks. You must have the permit returned to the Safety & Security Section once you sell your car, change your vehicle plate number or even if you have a car accident.

    If you have a vehicle permit you can park your car anywhere in the designated faculty/staff parking areas.

    Your contact person on vehicle permits at the Safety & Security Section is Ms. Fatima Al-Shamali. Ms Fatima can be reached at 485-6216.

  2. Does the University provide transport to and from work?

    Starting from August 26th, 2007 and for 6 consecutive weeks, there will be a shuttle run every morning at 8:00 AM from Al-Zuhoor 2 residential compound to QU Administration Building and at 2:00 PM from QU Administration Building to Al-Zuhoor 2 residential compound. After this period you should plan to rely on your own transportation method.

  3. Will the University give me a loan to buy a car?

    The University provides an interest free car loan, repayable over three years. Please refer to QU HR policies and procedures as the amount provided differs from one grade level to another.

  4. What is driving like in Qatar?

    Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are 50, 60, 80, 100 and 120 KMs /hr. A number of streets and traffic lights are under radar or camera surveillance. The penalty for jumping a red light is QR3000. Wearing seat belts is compulsory for driver and co-passenger, the fine for violation is QR200. Children below 10 are not allowed to sit in the front. Most of the roads in Qatar are three lanes with roundabouts and traffic signals.

  5. Can I import my car?

    The import of cars over 3 years old is not permitted by the State. However, you may wish to contact the Customs Department via email: custaffair.acpqa@qatar.net.qa; telephone +974-445-7457; fax +974-441-1550.

  6. When and where can I purchase a car?

    In accordance with Qatari Traffic regulations, you can purchase a vehicle only after obtaining your Residence Permit and a Qatari driver"s license. Qatar has many car dealerships selling new and used cars.

  7. Is auto insurance required in Qatar?

    Yes. There are many companies with different plans for various types of coverage. All insurers are mandated to issue what is called the �Unified Motor Policy� document. This policy sets out terms and conditions for both full comprehensive and third-party insurance. However, wider coverage is available now through insurance brokers and some selected insurers, extending the scope of the terms of cover under the Unified Motor Policy.

  8. How long can I drive with my foreign driver"s license?

    Until you receive your Permanent Residence. When you become a resident you are required to use a Qatari Driver"s License.

Human Resources Department

  1. Where is the Human Resources Department located?

    The Human Resources Department is in the Men"s Campus, Administration Building, on the ground and 1st floors.

  2. Where is the Recruiting Section Located?

    The Recruiting Section is in the Men"s Campus, Administration Building, on the Ground Floor, Room Nos. 123 & 125.

  3. Where is QU Passport Office located?

    QU"s Passport Office is in the Men"s Campus, Administration Building, on the Ground Floor, Room No. 105.

  4. What documents do I need to submit to the Recruiting Section during my initial days at QU?

    Provide the Recruiting Section with the following documents:

    • Original education qualification certificate/diploma
    • Record of Employment (from previous employers)
    • Passport size photographs (3 pieces)
    • Passport (original)
    • Copy of Entry Visa
    • Copy of Police Clearance certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of your country and by a Qatari Diplomatic Mission in your country. (Please note that the original of this document must be given to QU&#quot;s Passport Office).

  5. When will I sign my contract?

    You can only sign your contract once your Residence Permit is issued. However, you may request a mock copy of your contract prior to your arrival to Doha.

  6. Will I have my own mailing box at the University?

    No, but you will be able to use the University"s mailing address to receive mail. The address is:

    Qatar University (The name of your college & department) P.O. Box 2713 Doha, Qatar

    Please note that a personal Post Office Box could be rented for a nominal fee from Q-Post, the postal service provider for Qatar. You can access their website at http://www.qpost.com.qa

Relocation & Education Allowance

  1. I have school age children. Does the University provide an education allowance?

    Only non-Arabs are entitled to a children"s educational allowance for up to 3 children at international schools. A child must not exceed the age of 18 to be provided with this benefit. Please refer to QU HR policies for eligibility and maximum amounts entitled.

  2. Is there any shipping allowance for my children?

    There is no shipping allowance for your children. You can bring the household goods from anywhere within the amount stated in your offer letter.

  3. I am shipping my personal items. What procedure should I follow to pick them up?

    You can ship your belongings in your name c/o University address. Contact a shipping company in your country and arrange with them to ship door-to-door or door-to-port. Please arrange for your goods to arrive in Doha after your arrival date in the country as QU does not have storage facilities.
    In case you chose to airfreight your personal belonging door-to-port, you will need to go to the Cargo Terminal of Doha International Airport and arrange with a local clearing agent (found on site) to clear your shipment. Please note that although this is a cheaper method than shipping door-to-door the clearing agent will not be able to transport your goods from the airport to your residence.

  4. How can I get a mobile phone?

    New hires will receive a mobile phone, a SIM card and a pre-paid credit of QR100 during the HR Orientation Week. The cost of the pre-paid credit will be deducted from your monthly salary.
    Two types of mobile phone services are available in Qatar: Pre-paid (Hala) and post-paid. The post-paid service allows you to make an unlimited number of calls and is paid on a monthly basis. Hala works on a pre-paid credit basis and must be renewed periodically. Post-paid service requires that you have a Residence Visa. Both types of services are offered by Q-Tel, the only telecommunication service provider in Qatar. For more information please visit QTel at www.qtel.com.qa

  5. Can I bring my pet to Qatar?

    Pets are allowed into Qatar. Keep in mind that you will likely live in an apartment, so a large dog may not be comfortable. In addition, summer temperatures are often too hot for pets to spend much time outdoors.
    Inform the Recruiting Section of your desire to bring your pet. You will have to provide us with a scanned copy of their vaccination records including rabies shot and a health certificate issued by a government approved veterinary clinic at the point of origin. The health certificate must be dated no earlier than two weeks prior to the date of the animal"s arrival date to Qatar. The Recruiting Section will obtain the import permit from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture (MMAA) and courier the document to you. The import of certain larger breeds such as Boxers, Bulldogs, Rottweilers and Great Danes are not allowed into Qatar.

  6. Can I open an account with any bank in the State of Qatar?

    Yes, you can. There are many banks in Qatar. Qatar National Bank (QNB) has a branch on campus, Islamic banks, and other international banks such as HSBC and Standard Chartered are also available in Doha.

  7. If I decide to leave the university before my contract expires, what are the procedures that I must follow?

    The separation terms are provided in your contract. Generally, faculty should give 6 months notice to the department head. Otherwise they may lose some of the allowances mentioned in their contract. Non-academic staff should give a minimum of 2 months notice prior to leaving.

  8. What is the University"s policy and regulations for the annual incremental increase?

    The annual incremental increase for both faculty and staff is subject to the yearly performance appraisal scheme. The incremental increase is based on budget availability.

  9. What are the termination rules and conditions?

    The service of a faculty/staff member may be terminated for one of a number of reasons:
    • As a result of disciplinary action;
    • For poor performance;
    • Redundancy;
    • End of a fixed term contact;
    • For medical reasons;
    • Reaches 60 years of age.
    • This is not an exhaustive list. In case of termination during a probationary period, no advance notice is given. In all other cases QU will either provide or pay the notice period stated in the contract and will pay termination benefits.

  10. Am I entitled for annual paid leave? If so how many days can I take leave?

    Non-academic staff are entitled to 40 calendar days per annum. Faculty is entitled to take annual paid leave for the number of days specified in the yearly academic calendar. On average it is two months every year.