Minimal Jobless Tide in Qatar During Q2 of 2024 Remains the Lowest Among GCC Countries
In Q2 2024, Qatar recorded the lowest unemployment rate in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at just 0.1%, with male unemployment at 0.1% and female unemployment at 0.4% [1][2][3]. This rate represents near full employment and is notably lower than other GCC countries, where unemployment is higher, especially among women. For instance, Oman had the highest unemployment in the GCC at 3.6%, followed closely by Saudi Arabia at 3.5% [2].
Regarding workforce composition, Qatar's labor market includes 84.5% non-Qatari workers, predominantly men, which is comparable to the broader GCC average where expatriates form over 85% of the workforce [1][2]. This high labor market participation and inclusion are key factors in Qatar's low unemployment rate [4].
The GCC Statistical Center (GCC-STAT) issued a report stating that Qatar has one of the highest proportions of expatriate workers in the GCC, with non-Qatari employees comprising 84.5% of the total labour force [1][2]. The report also highlighted that the female unemployment rate in Qatar is significantly lower than the average across the GCC.
In comparison with global trends, Qatar's unemployment rate of 0.1% is exceptionally low. Worldwide unemployment rates generally vary considerably by country but tend to be much higher; for example, global averages often range around 4-6% in recent years depending on economic conditions. Thus, Qatar’s rate significantly outperforms not only regional neighbors but also global averages, reflecting a highly efficient labor market and strong economic resilience [1][2].
| Country | Q2 2024 Unemployment Rate | Notes | |--------------|---------------------------|--------------------------------| | Qatar | 0.1% | Lowest in GCC, near full employment, 0.4% women | | Oman | 3.6% | Highest unemployment in GCC | | Saudi Arabia | 3.5% | High female unemployment rate | | GCC Average | ~1.6% (males), 10.8% (females) | Significant gender disparity | | Global Avg. | ~4-6% (varies by country) | Much higher than Qatar |
Qatar’s standout position in GCC labor market efficiency is supported by its robust economy and inclusive workforce policies [4][5]. The report did not provide new information about the male-to-female ratios among national workers in Qatar compared to other GCC countries. However, it emphasized Qatar's sustained efforts in creating job opportunities, empowering women in the workplace, and maintaining labor market efficiency.
In terms of employment rankings, Qatar is in fourth place, behind Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman, in terms of employing foreign workers [1][2]. Despite its heavy reliance on foreign labor, Qatar's national workforce has remained stable, with only a negligible change in citizen employment figures over the previous quarter and a 0.4% quarterly increase.
The report was compiled using data from official statistics agencies across GCC countries and international comparisons from the ILO World Employment and Social Outlook - Trends 2024. However, some datasets may be incomplete or unavailable for all GCC countries, depending on each country's data provision and release schedule.
Sources: [1] GCC-STAT Report, Q2 2024 [2] ILO World Employment and Social Outlook - Trends 2024 [3] Qatar National Statistics Authority, Q2 2024 Unemployment Rate [4] Qatar National Vision 2030 [5] Qatar Labour Market Regulation Authority (LMR) Policies
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