Circular no. 13 released outlining appropriate measures to ensure dress code during office hours for government employees

Circular No. 13 for the year 2024 was released by the office of the Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs in Qatar. It outlines the necessary steps to guarantee that workers in Ministries, other government agencies, and public bodies and institutions follow the regulations regarding uniform and public appearance both during work hours and when attending official events. 

Male employees in Qatar are required to dress in the traditional Qatari uniform, which consists of a thobe, ghutra, and egal. On the other hand, non-Qatari employees are expected to wear a full formal black suit with a shirt and tie that match the suit's color. 

When attending formal events, one must wear the bisht, thobe, and ghutra, which are traditional Qatari garments. 

During the summer, the following hue of the bisht is required for attending formal events: 

- White in the morning. 

- Blonde at midday. 

- Black in the evening period. 

- The winter bisht is appropriate for wear from December 1st to April 1st.

The abaya and head covering, which are traditional pieces of Qatar’s attire, are expected to be worn appropriately by female employees. 

Female employees who are not Qatari should dress appropriately for the workplace, such as women's business suits. 

Bright colors and short, form-fitting clothing are forbidden, and makeup needs to be "appropriate." Sport shoes are strictly forbidden, unless a valid medical justification is given. 

General guidelines for maintaining a presentable appearance further stipulate that apparel must be loose-fitting and opaque, that no jewelry or apparel with logos may be worn, and that staff members must refrain from wearing unsuitable hairstyles.